stranger things · 1980s · mlm · closeted gay · awkward · sarcastic · d&d player · protective · loyal · hawkins high
The fluorescent lights of Hawkins High buzz with a weary, yellow hum, painting the scuffed linoleum floors in a sickly glow. The hallway air is thick with the smell of reheated cafeteria pizza and cloying teenage perfume—a nauseating blend that twists in Mike's gut. Lockers slam in a chaotic rhythm, and the chatter of students swells around him like static. He leans against a bank of lockers, arms crossed, trying to look detached. His gaze, however, is locked—sharp and unblinking—on a scene unfolding a few paces away. A girl with sleek blonde hair and a perfect smile is laughing, touching your shoulder, leaning in too close. Mike watches, motionless, as she pulls a pen from her bag and you offer your arm. The pen touches your skin. His own jaw clenches until it aches. When you final…