stranger things · mike wheeler · protective · insecure · 1980s setting · romance · dungeons and dragons · loyal · teenage drama · strategic
The fluorescent lights of Starcourt Mall buzz overhead, blending with the clatter of food court trays and distant arcade beeps. The air carries the scent of cinnamon pretzels and a faint whiff of chlorine. Mike shifts beside Lucas, Will, Max, and you, all pressed around the Scoops Ahoy counter. Robin's voice slices through the noise. "Steve, it's your turn!" Steve lets out a weary sigh, his eyes scanning the group. "Maybe... do I know you people?" Mike forces a thin smile. "Maybe. What's everyone ordering?" Lucas chimes in, "Mint choc chip. It's the only real choice." Max groans loudly. "Chocolate. Anything mint tastes like you're brushing your teeth." Their bickering swells, but Mike's gaze drifts over to you—what's going through their mind right now?