Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

‘Dear journal, it’s Will. I wish I could say my feelings have gotten more controlled. But gosh, Mike keeps doing things that make me just want to curl up in a ditch and never see the light of day again. Because, I know he doesn’t think of me that way. He never will.

Mike always tries to confuse me. Like he’ll do a bunch of little gestures that make me think more than what he probably means by it. Like the other morning I was going to the kitchen for breakfast, and he was already there waiting for me, with a cup of coffee.

And I was being quiet at school, not for a particular reason, I just wanted to listen to music and be with myself. Mike asked if I was okay multiple times at lunch, and throughout the day. I reassured him that I was fine. He never asks any of our other friends if they’re ok like the way he asks me.

He always sits with me whenever I’m drawing. On cold nights we’ll sit by the fireplace, and make hot chocolate, with a blanket wrapped around the both of us. Mike doesn’t even talk, he just sits there and watches me draw in awe. If it’s getting late at night, he’ll lean against me and fall asleep. It makes me feel so buzzy, but so hurt. These are the things that make me think our friendship is something more.

I don’t know what to do anymore. Wanting something I can’t have. I’ll just have to keep these emotions bottled up in this journal.’

Will has spent the last year living at Mike’s. As with that he’s gotten closer with Mike than he ever thought was possible. They spent every day together. They were practically attached at the hip.

They did even the little things side by side. Brushing their teeth, doing chores, homework. All of this was meaningful to Will. It felt like he finally had his best friend back.

But, there was more than just the daily things they would do together that made Will feel so crazy about their relationship.

Some nights, mainly on weekends, they would be up late talking. Either in the basement, in Mike’s room, or on the couch. It was just them, and their thoughts. Everything else just disappeared. They talked about their past, their present, their future. The future was always a blur to them. They both shared a worry of the world, or Hawkins never going back to how it used to be. Or that once they fight, they’ll lose.

But, no matter how scared they both got, they always come back to the thought of as long as they have each other, everything will be fine.

With these long conversations lasting late into the night, Mike would always end up falling asleep on Will. This night being one of them, again.

Mike is a needy person. He just never shows it until he’s on a sleep high, or whenever he’s with Will.

After their conversation started to dive down, and the moonlight dimmed down through the window of Mike’s room, Mike dazed off and fell asleep on Will’s shoulder. Will was comforted by the weight of Mike. Slowly, he falls asleep too. They were on top of the covers, holding each other.

As Will was still conscious before fully falling asleep, he thought of how when they were little. They would have countless sleepovers. All of them feeling different and better from the last. But one thing that never changed, was how they would fall asleep just like this. Mike always being the first one out. Will slowly after.

Now, that same feeling hits Will once in a while. Thinking how this meant nothing to him 10 years ago. But now, it feels almost haunting. He knows he shouldn’t feel like this. That lingering thought that Mike is just the same person he was. He still falls asleep like this because that’s who Mike is. But they’ve changed. And Will hopes that all of this has a new meaning to it too.

Will falls asleep, brushing all of that aside. He’s happy he gets to experience this still. Sleeping with his best friend in the most formal way possible. In no intimate way, just two lifelong best friends. At least to Will, he has hope one day it could be more. Same feeling, different meaning.

Chapter Text

Will slowly woke up with the same feeling he fell asleep with. The weight from Mike had shifted from Will’s shoulder to his chest. He felt their breaths rising up and down at the same rhythm.

He didn’t move. He wanted to soak up every last second of this before Mike woke up, and they would act like nothing happened.

At least that’s what Will thought.

Mike woke up a few minutes later. They both felt each other being awake, but none of them moved, or said anything. They laid there in silence, but not awkward.

Will started to feel a sense of greediness, or wrong. He knew this wasn’t right.

Mike slowly sat up, leaning near Will.

“Good morning” Mike had that raspy morning voice.

“Morning” Will felt shocked. He thought Mike would’ve bolted away to place a gap between them. But he didn’t.

It was still dark outside. But the slight natural light from the streetlights shining on the condensated pavement showed a reflection of both their faces.

They both just looked at each other, comfortably. Will was panicking inside, but it also soothed him how Mike looked so perfect in this very moment.

The lighting, the way his body was facing him.

Mike was lying on his stomach. His elbows keeping him steady. His leg brushing against Will’s.

“I always get the best sleep when we have nights like these, it really comforts me.” Mike was giving Will reassurance he didn’t know felt like the whole world to Will.

“Yeah, me too Mike. It feels nice” Will couldn’t move. He tried to readjust himself to get more comfortable and closer to Mike. But he couldn’t.

“I’m glad we can be real with each other like this. It feels different than talking with others. I’m happy things still feel the same with us”

Will cannot handle all of this however early in the morning it is. He’s not sure if Mike is meaning all of this either. He keeps thinking Mike still just might be half awake and doesn’t know what he’s saying.

“Me too, Mike” Will wanted to say more. So much more. But the words just couldn’t come out of his mouth. He wanted to say how grateful he is for Mike, and he cherishes their bond. He knew there was a look on his face of guiltiness, or authentic to whatever these feelings were.

Mike gently put his hand on Will’s arm. “Are you okay, Will?” He had that concerned gentle look on his face that he only uses on Will.

“Yeah, I’m fine. Just tired is all” Will knew that wasn’t a good enough excuse.

“That’s all? I believe you Will, but you’ve been quiet recently. I just want to make sure you’re really okay. I used to feel so oblivious, and I don’t want to be like that again and just ignore your feelings or go on without knowing how you feel”

Those words hit Will like a brick. For some reason his mind kept telling him that Mike’s just saying this because he’s not fully awake yet. But he tries so hard to convince himself that Mike really means it. He can’t just keep giving bland responses because he’s scared of interpreting this the wrong way.

“Sorry, yeah no i get it. Thank you for saying that, it means a lot. But really, I’m okay. Just been exhausted lately” Will put a smile on his face. Pushing down the thoughts he knew were never going to come out of his mouth.

He really did feel grateful that Mike was stepping up. Ever since their fight at the roller rink, and then slowly making up after that. He thought maybe Mike didn't get the message about what he was saying in the van.

“Okay, good. Let me know if you need anything though, ok? I’m always here” Mike reassured Will more than needed.

Maybe Mike did really mean what he’s been saying for the past few minutes.

“And, if you're having trouble sleeping in the basement, you can always come up here, it's no bother, I always enjoy you” Mike started rubbing his hand back and forth down Will's arm.

“Thanks Mike, I really appreciate it” Just as Will was about to scooch closer to Mike than he already was, a voice came from downstairs.

“Boys! Get up you’re going to be late for school” Mrs. Wheeler yelled from the kitchen as she was preparing breakfast.

They both snapped out of their thoughts and got up.

“I’ll meet you in the garage” Mike said as he started to grab a shirt that was stuffed into his drawer.

Will walked down the basement feeling almost lightheaded. Not because he didn’t feel good, but because he couldn’t get all of the things that Mike was doing straight in his mind. It was all a blur to him, but also could remember the exact way Mike was touching his arm, and every word he said.

They met in the garage 10 minutes later after getting ready for school. They grabbed their bikes and went off.

The morning was very gloomy and almost drizzly from it raining the day prior. The breeze hit Will with a stinging feeling. It almost felt nice. It helped him forget the feelings going on in his mind.

The ride to school was quiet. Conversation coming up every few minutes about homework, or whatever new drawing Will was working on even though Mike already knew.

They arrive at school and head to first. The first period was the only class Will didn’t have with Mike. He had lucked out by joining late and getting to pick his schedule when they had to go into quarantine by the military.

But, Will wanted to take art. He didn’t mind Mike not being there. Art is his other safe space. The class was pretty lenient; he mainly got to do whatever art pleased him. He also gets to listen to music, which helps him paint a better picture in his mind for his art pieces.

At lunch, everyone was just catching up. Mike and Will were sitting side by side at the lunch table along with Lucas, and Dustin sitting across.

“Yeah, and then he had the audacity to talk crap about Eddie!” Dustin was exclaiming.

Lucas gave a half-assed response, trying to act shocked for Dustin.

“Guys? What's wrong? Mainly you two” Dustin pointed to Mike and Will, who were trying to hide the fact that they were not paying attention to Dustin’s story.

“Oh, uh nothing. Just tired, long night. And why does it matter? Today's a Friday anyways” Mike defended.

“Tired? What were you two possibly doing so late on a school night..? Whatever. Do you see what I’m saying though?! Why can’t people just leave Eddie alone” Dustin didn’t pay too close attention to the real point of why he asked them what was wrong.

“Yeah, that’s messed up, sorry that keeps happening to you Dustin” Will always had empathy, he still didn’t really know what was going on. He also was trying to get everyone to move on from the topic on why he and Mike were being quiet, and tired.

The rest of the school day was fine. Will still couldn’t get that lightheaded feeling out of him. He could still picture that moment perfectly. Mike using his gentle voice, and how comforting his touch felt.

He couldn’t think about it too much, or else he would slowly start to forget the moment. Will always thinks about specific moments with Mike, that just keep replaying in his head until it seems like it never happened in his brain. He knows it did, but it doesn’t feel like it.

On the ride home it started raining.

“Oh shit. Of course it can’t wait five more minutes till we're home” Mike blurted out.

They hurry home as quickly as possible. Not quick enough to realize everything is soaked. Their hair, clothes, backpacks.

“Oh god, we're soaked” Will said as they both giggled at the fact they’re both drenched.

They step inside and set their shoes and backpacks by the front door.

“Here, I’ll start a warm shower for you,” Mike insistantly offered.

“Oh no Mike you can go first, really it’s fine” Will said trying to hide that his teeth were chattering.

Mike reached out to feel Will’s arms and hands.

“No, Will, you’re freezing! Please it’ll make me feel better”

Mike went upstairs, Will following him slowly after. He started the water, feeling it every few seconds waiting for it to warm up.

Once it started to steam, Mike grabbed a towel for Will and draped it on the sink.

“Thanks Mike, really” Will started to take off his coat.

“No problem, just let me know when you’re done so I can get it in” Mike gave him a comforting smile, and closed the door.

Will didn’t take too long in the shower, but the warm water felt so nice. It soothed him, and his thoughts. He thought twice about everything that's been on his mind all day. He felt that feeling that he kept trying to forget. But this time, he didn’t try to push it back down. He let himself resonate with it, and really grasp what he felt for Mike.

He thought maybe Mike did really mean what he was saying in a not so ‘best friend’ way. Again, he thought maybe Mike was just saying and acting this way because they’re friends. After all, friends do care for each other.

He decided whatever he and Mike were going to plan on doing tonight, he would try to match Mike’s energy, and not let his thoughts get to him. He wanted to see if he expressed more of his thoughts and actions towards Mike, then maybe he can get a sense if Mike is really giving all of these signs for a reason.

He got out of the shower and started to dry off, when he realized his clothes were still wet.

He wrapped the towel around his waist, and headed to Mike’s room.

Mike had his headphones on sitting at his desk writing something. listening to some music Will had never really had any interest in.

Will had to get Mike's attention. He tapped him on the shoulder. “Mike, you there?” He jokingly said.

Mike looked up, not frightened but a bit shocked. “Sorry, couldn’t hear you. What’s up?”

“Um, I forgot to grab a change of clothes, and my other ones are wet still” Will was standing there awkwardly as the warmth from the shower started to fade from his body.

“Oh shoot, yeah I’m sorry Will” Mike quickly stood up and started scavenging through his drawers for a pair of pj pants and a top.

“Here you go,” He handed him a pair of blue plaid pants and an old sweater of Mikes. “I’m gonna get in the shower, and we can make food, that sound good?”

“Yeah, sounds great” Will smiled and went downstairs to the basement to change.

He sat at the desk that he made his own. He grabbed his sketchbook and started drawing. He would’ve written an entry in his journal, but if Mike came down here and discovered Will's journal, he wouldn't even know what to do.

So, Will just stuck to drawing.

About twenty minutes go by before he hears a knock. “Will?”

Mike walks downstairs stepping closer to Will’s desk.

Mike stopped for a sec to admire the forest scenery that Will was working on, “Wow Will! That looks really cool” Mike put his arm around the back of the chair. Will could feel the presence of it.

“Thanks Mike, but you don't always have to talk up all my work just because I’m your friend”

“What? no, Will I’m telling you it's really good! And I’ll always be so impressed by your stuff. I wouldn't just say I like it. I really mean it”

Will finally had the courage to look up at Mike, who was already looking at him.

“Thanks,” Will put his hand on Mike's arm to give clarification that he did like the compliments Mike always gives him.

Again, he's trying to step out of his comfort zone. To see if this is really what Will thinks it is. Not just some delusion he has. Making sure he's clear what Mike's intentions are.

“Alright, do you want to make dinner with me, or I can totally do it while you keep drawing” Mike asked.

“Oh no, I’ll help you cook. I also don't trust you quite enough to cook on your own.. sorry” Will tried to do the whole flirty joke situation, hoping for a good response back.

“Hey! Whatever makes sense, you are the more prodigious one after all” Mike gives a chuckle.

“Alright then, what do you wanna make?” Will asked as they were heading to the kitchen. Usually Mrs. Wheeler would be cooking something, but she was out with a few friends. And as for Mr. Wheeler was somewhere locked up in his office doing work.

“I had an idea of making soup? Or basically any warm food, it fits the rainy vibe” Mike insisted.

“Soup sounds great!” Will started to get out a pot and other appliances they needed.

It didn't take them long to make, but they had fun doing it. They were joking around, and messing with each other. It eventually turned into a mini playful fight.

It started when Mike decided to throw a piece of uncooked pasta at Will for the comment that Mike's horrible at reading the room. Even though Mike somewhat admitted to it the night prior by saying he was oblivious, he still took Will’s comment to heart.

“Well you always have your music up way too loud, how can you still hear right?” Mike fought back.

“Says the one who was blasting their headphones an hour ago while I was trying to get your attention” Will gave Mike a little shove pushing him back to the kitchen island.

Mike grabbed Will’s hands. As they interlinked, they started pushing each other, both giving a fair amount of force on one another.

They were going at this for a second until the smoke alarm started to go off. They had forgotten about the soup they were cooking.

They didn't even care, they burst out laughing from the pure joy they were having.

Will let go of Mike's hands, it almost felt like a sting when the cold air hit his hands. Mike had always been naturally warm.

He walked over near the pot blowing away the steam and smoke with a rag. He then added pasta to the soup, and put in a few extra ingredients.

Mike sat on the counter, watching Will.

“Wow, you really are good at everything” Mike was preaching Will once again.

“Well so are you” Will said back at him.

“Yeah sure, but I swear you can do way more than me. How does it just come so natural to you?” Mike was again amazed by Will.

“I don't know, I guess maybe being on the artistic side gives me a more open mind” Will exclaimed.

At this point Will was standing next to Mike, looking up at him. None of them say anything, they just look at each other. In a comfortable way.

Mike opened his mouth, about to say something. Until they both heard sizzling coming from the stove and quickly turned their heads in sync.

Will went to stir the soup and add the last touches to it. He was just trying to distract himself from whatever that was.

Mike jumped off the counter and grabbed two bowls and spoons. Will poured soup into the bowls, and they grabbed a canned soda of their preference.

They usually would sit down at the dining table. But since it was just them eating dinner, they decided to sit in the living room and watch a movie.

Mike picked Back to the Future that he had on VHS. He knew they probably weren't going to pay attention to it.

They got comfortable on the couch. Mike put a blanket over the both of them, and dimmed the lights to make it feel more cozy. The fireplace was already going.

“Hey, I just wanted to say that this feels really nice. I know we hangout and stuff everyday but I don't express enough how much it means to me. And us just having fun making dinner and watching a movie is really all I could ask for” Will expresses.

“Yeah, I agree. I like that we can still enjoy each other's company by doing these kinds of things. I’m glad to have a best friend where we have a different connection than others, but is also like my other friends” Mike was using that gentle voice again.

“Yeah. me too” Will smiles and takes the courage to scooch closer to Mike. Their knees brush under the shared blanket. Neither of them move though.

They continue to eat their dinner, and talk.

“Hey, do you want me to make some hot chocolate? I know you love it on days like these” Mike offered.

“Yes of course, thanks Mike” Will got up and put their dishes in the sink. It was the least he could do. He sat back down on the couch. He felt more comforted by knowing that he and Mike were on the same page about their relationship. They both knew they had a special bond. But Will was still unsure if Mike meant that in the way of best friends or more.

For once, he didn't let it worry him. He decided to keep doing what he was doing and enjoy this cozy rainy night with his best friend.

Once Mike came back with the hot chocolate, they situated themselves in the same position they were. Their knees brushing once again.

There was only a bit of the movie left. They finished their hot chocolate and there was silence between them for a while. Usually one of them would say a random thought and they would keep talking. Just jumping back and forth off random topics.

Once the movie ended, the silence grew louder. But it didn’t interrogate them. It felt comfortable.

Mike broke the silence, “I can't believe we actually sat through that movie”

“Yeah, I swear we’ve seen it countless times I figured I would zone out of it halfway through,” Will was trying to think of something else to say.

“I had fun though. Rainy days like this are my favorite” Will hopes Mike would say something else interesting to keep the conversation going.

“Me too, I can't remember the last time it rained this hard since the summer before you moved” Mike said, not realizing what had happened that day.

“Yeah, I remember that day pretty well” Will instantly knew what had happened that day. He thinks about it all the time. Not in the way that he was still upset with Mike. He's over that, they've both matured. He had let all these feelings out in his journal. But it still made his stomach turn.

“I kind of remember it. I think El was mad at me that day. And then we were playing DnD.. gosh I feel like something else happened too” Mike still couldn't pick up what Will was putting down.

Will had a look of shame on his face. He didn't want to but he didn't know what other face to make.

“Oh, wait. I’m sorry Will, I didn't mean to bring that up” Will could tell Mike felt horrible

“No, it's fine. I’m past that. We were both being immature and didn't know what we were saying. Trust me It's okay” Will still sounded a bit upset.

“Okay, But still. I’m sorry. Even if you think it was just us being immature, it still wasn't right to beat on you like that. I would never make fun of you for anything like that again, ever Will, I mean that” Mike had turned his body towards Will, sitting crisscrossed, blanket still on the both of them.

“Thanks Mike, I’m sorry for whatever I said too. I didn't mean it. But let's just move past that. We're best friends now and nothing's going to stop that, right? That's all that matters” Will clarified.

“Yes, exactly. I’m so glad to be your best friend” Mike reached in for a hug. Will hugged him back even tighter. He let himself relax into Mike's arms, resting his head on his shoulder.

They let go a minute after, just looking at each other, happily.

Mike moved back to his original position on the couch, leaning back and putting his legs up. Will decided to scooch closer. His body was moving before his mind was, but he didn't care anymore.

They were talking for a little bit longer. Mike brought up this writing piece he’s been working on.

Will let Mike just talk. He was getting tired anyways. Mike's voice slowly was fading, but keeping him comfortable.

He put his head on Mike’s shoulder. Surely he was comfortable with it since Mike does it to him all the time.

Will had fallen asleep. It took Mike a second to realize.

But once he felt Will put his arm over his stomach, he looked over to see Will peacefully out like a light.

Soon after, Mike fell asleep. He had his arm over Will as well, and nothing was better than the sound of the crackling fireplace, and them breathing in sync.

Chapter Text

Mike woke up from the sound of the pouring rain.

He was still holding Will, his head resting on his shoulder. He had wondered what this meant to Will.

He didn't want to think too hard about it. He looked at Will with a light in his eyes. The same light he’d always had whenever he looks at Will. He looked so peaceful sleeping.

He squeezed him a little tighter. Just to feel this moment a little better.

Will let out a huge exhale. The squeeze woke him up in the slightest.

“Oh shit, Will sorry” Mike was praying he didn't notice what he was trying to do. Just grasp this moment, this feeling for a second longer, and harder.

“Huh? It's fine, whatever you did” Will raised his head, moving it to adjust from the position he was in that made his neck stiff.

“Dang, it’s pouring…” Will pulled the blanket over him and Mike more, covering their whole bodies. Will was shivering.

“Oh Will, are you cold? We can go up to my room, my heater works best” Mike offered, putting his hand on Will’s shoulder.

“Uh yeah, sure” Will started to stand up.

Mike wrapped the blanket around Will, making it look like a cape. “Here, for extra warmth”

They both stumble up the stairs like they haven't walked in months. But it was just from the cold making their legs tremble.

They make it to Mike’s room, and they're both awkwardly standing there for a second.

“So uh, what do you wanna do? You could bring your art stuff up here, and I'll do something else” Mike suggested.

“Uh sure,” Will took the blanket off off his shoulders, and threw it onto Mike's bed. “I’ll be right back”

Will walked downstairs to the basement, pacing faster than he thought he was.

He had to sit down at his desk for a second. Just to resonate what's been happening in the past 12 hours.

He pulled out his journal that hides behind his DnD binder. He hesitated to open it. For some reason he didn't feel like writing these feelings down. Like if he writes it down, then all the feelings and emotions will leave his body.

He opens it anyway. He clicked his pen, and started writing the date down.

‘November 23, 1986,
Dear journal, I don't know what's been driving me and Mike's mind in the past day or so, but it's making me go even more insane than I thought I already was…’

Will kept jotting down any feeling or moment he thought of that happened between them from the moment he woke up yesterday morning to right now. He totally forgot that he was supposed to go back to Mike’s room.

The sound of footsteps rushed down the stairs of the basement. “Will? What's taking you so long I thought you were-” Mike paused. He did that frown he always does where his eyebrows go different directions.

Will quickly closed the journal and pushed it aside praying Mike wouldn't notice. He grabbed the first thing he saw and put it in front of him. His DnD binder. They haven't played in ages. He was hoping Mike wouldn't think twice about it.

“Are you looking in your DnD binder? Wow, we haven't played in so long, why are you looking at that?” Mike said, it sounded like an insult or judgement but Will knew he was just asking.

“Oh uh, I was just looking for more paper, and had to pull this out to find some” Will excused.

“Oh, makes sense. But you made me think of an idea. What if we write a campaign? We can work on it all weekend cause it’ll probably be this weather for today and tomorrow. On Monday we can show everyone! Maybe it can bring the group back together since everyone’s been a little down lately” Mike felt proud of this idea.

“Yeah, that's great Mike! I can draw visuals too, and you can do more of the writing stuff since you're better in that category” Will suggested.

“Sure! Grab your art supplies, I’ll go find everyone else's binders and old books to help us” Mike seemed so stoked. Will felt comfort in knowing that Mike still enjoyed doing this kind of stuff.

Mike went upstairs while Will grabbed papers, pencils, and crayons.

He hid his journal behind his full sketchbook on the shelf of the desk. His heart was still pounding at the fact Mike almost found out about his journal.

He heads upstairs back to Mike’s room. It always feels so refreshing walking into his room. It's a reminder to him that his and Mike’s friendship is still the same. And it always will be.

But the hope for something more still lingers in the back of his mind.

Will put all his stuff down on the floor, and went over to Mike, who was on his knees half his body inside his closet. He was scrummaging through his old DnD stuff.

He finally pulled out the box of binders, and stuff they used to work on their campaigns.

Will crouched down next to him. They both started to look through the box.

“Wow, I can't believe we put in this much effort into this stuff. It's so cool to look at this and how creative we were” Will implied.

“Yeah, I’m glad you gave me the idea to do this again. I think it can really get everyone to be a group again, and have fun like we all used to” Mike said, taking the rest of the loose papers that were at the bottom of the box.

“Yeah, hopefully. I miss everyone. I’m glad me and you are really close, but Lucas and Dustin just seem to have drifted apart from us. I think this will bring us together again though” Will encouraged Mike’s optimism.

“Alright then, let's do this” Mike spread all the necessary papers out on the floor, and set up a spot on the floor as well for Will to draw.

“Do you mind if I turn on music? It helps me imagine my drawings better” Will asked.

“Oh yeah sure, turn on whatever you want” Mike insisted.

Will went to Mike's radio and put in a Cure tape he had left in here from a few nights prior.

He sat back down and started lightly sketching each of the group's characters.

Him and Mike did this for the rest of the day. They were quiet for most of it. Both of them respected the focus they both had. But eventually talking every now and then.

It's a little later than 3pm now. They're both slowing down a bit.

“Hey, do you wanna take a break? I can go make us a snack and we can watch something” Mike offered.

“Yeah sure, my hands are getting tired” Will said shaking out his hand.

Mike stood up and went to the kitchen. Will followed him.

Mike got out bowls and started assembling their snacks. Will went to the living room to turn on the tv.

Holly had already claimed the living room, her toys scattered everywhere on the carpet and had the tv playing on the kid's channel.

Will wasn't going to burst her fun. So, he sat down next to her and asked to play with her.

She was so excited. Holly gave Will some dolls and told him how to do whatever Holly was doing with the creative mind of hers.

Mike walked in a few minutes after, pausing at the opening between the kitchen and the living room. He had a tray of crackers, and bowls of fruit for them.

“Oh Holly, what are you doing leave Will alone” Mike gave his annoying sibling voice.

“Oh no Mike, I offered to play with her. Really, it's ok” Will clarified.

“Oh, sorry, okay then” Mike set down the tray on the coffee table next to the couch, and sat down.

Mike was staring, hard. For some reason Will just playing with his little sister like that was so meaningful to him. That made him think how special Will is. He's so kind, and thoughtful.

“Mike?” Will's voice made him snap out of the deep thoughts he was having about Will.

“Yeah?” Mike prayed Will didn't notice.

“Are you okay, you were staring” Will was being gentle. No matter how weird a situation is, he always finds a way to be calm.

“Yeah, sorry. Just thinking about the campaign" Mike made up an excuse.

“Oh, okay then, thanks for the snacks” Will stood up and grabbed his bowl and a few crackers. He sat next to Mike, their shoulders touching.

They sat there, watching Holly play with her dolls.

Once they were done, they headed back upstairs.

Before Mike sat back down, he paused to look at Will’s accurate drawing of all of them.

“Will, I know I say this all the time, but gosh that's really good” Mike said.

“Thanks, I messed up a bit here, but it's fine you can barely notice” Will pointed at the drawing, before sitting back down.

“Still, it looks really good. Do you mind reading what I have so far? I’m unsure about some stuff, or if it still connects to the other campaigns we’ve done” Mike asked, handing Will his binder.

“Yeah sure” Will took it from his hand. Their fingers brushed. It sparked the both of them to look up and make eye contact.

Mike quickly cleared his throat, but still holding the binder out and their fingers still touching.

Will let go of the touch before it could get weird. Or at least weirder than that already was. Maybe not weird, but confusing. Very confusing.

Will flipped through the pages. It took him about 30 minutes to read everything.

Mike was organizing the rest of the old papers.

“Wow, Mike this is really good. All of it connects to previous stuff, and overall your writing is great. I knew you were good but I never knew you were this good” Will complimented.

“Thanks, I appreciate the feedback” Mike grabbed the binder back from him.

“Im kind of done for the day though, we can finish the rest tomorrow?” Mike asked, putting stuff back in the box.

“Yeah sounds good, what do you want to do though?” Will asked. He was sort of worried. Him and Mike find comfort out of doing anything together. But for some reason this time he was worried he might do something that made his feelings very obvious.

“Um, I dunno. We could just lay in my bed, and talk. My back hurts from sitting like this all day so I kind of need to rest a bit” Mike hinted, seeming like he really wanted him and Will to have one of their comfortable moments together that can never be determined if it's a best friend thing, or more.

“Okay, yeah my back hurts a bit too” Will cleaned up his stuff, and put it on Mike’s desk out of the way.

Mike climbed onto the bed, pulling the covers over him because it was still freezing from it raining all day.

Will got in too. He was hesitant at first. If he should lay on top or inside the covers.

He was feeling bold right now, so he went in the covers. He thought there was nothing to lose now. Mike had already made it pretty clear that he probably wanted Will under the blankets as well.

They both sat side by side at first. Shoulders touching once again.

Mike broke the silence that had been lingering for a few minutes, “I enjoyed doing that, Will. It made me feel like us again. I know were always like truly us around each other, but it felt nice to do stuff we used to do when we were little together”

“It did, I’m glad I can still be myself around you. I mean I can be myself around others too. But, with you I can be my true self. And express my feelings and actions without any shame” Will thought he said too much. God he really was feeling bold right now.

“Me too, I know I can be kind of a jerk to others. Or really stern. But with you, I feel more gentle and collected. It makes me feel better about myself, because I can really get into my own head sometimes. But you're the reminder that this is the true me. But I’m only the true me around you, so thank you for that” So Will wasn't being as bold. Good. He thought.

He thought hard about what Mike had just said. And about what he had just said. They both act like their true selves around each other. Will thought about how special that is. To have a friend where there's no judgement, or backlash. Just pure innocence.

“Of course, and don't let yourself get into your thoughts too much. It's not worth it. As long as you stay true to yourself, you'll be okay. I’m always here for you if it does keep bothering you. I know how that can feel sometimes” Will gave eye contact with Mike and put his hand slightly above his.

“Thanks, Will. I’m glad we can talk like this” Mike moved his hand to Will’s shoulder.

“My back still hurts, I think I need to lie down fully on my pillow, sorry I know you probably don't want to get too comfortable before we have to get up again” Mike started to shift down his body deeper into the bed, the mattress slightly sinking.

“No it's fine, my necks been hurting too since this morning, I slept weird on it” Will said.

“Oh yeah, sorry my shoulder isn't the comfiest pillow” Mike laughed.

“Yeah,” Will laughed with him “Sorry for falling asleep like that on you”

“Oh don't worry about it. It felt nice. I always end up falling asleep on you most nights, right?” Mike reasoned.

“Yeah true” Will adjusted himself to fully lie down as well.

“Here you can lay on me. It’ll help your neck even out” Mike pointed to his chest.

Will felt his eyes go wide. He knew he had this bold act going on, but he wasn't sure he could take this. This isn't just a best friend thing he thought.

Will slowly put his head on Mike's chest.

Their bodies inching closer to each other until there was no gap left in between them

Mike had put his arm around the pillow next to him. He didn't want to make it too awkward, or give the wrong intention to Will, even though they were feeling the same way about this.

“Comfortable?” Mike asked gently.

“Yeah, really comfortable” Will had developed a sleepy voice the past ten seconds he was laying on Mike.

They laid there, in comfortable silence.

Their feet brushing against each other's. Legs getting tangled. Their breaths rising and falling at the same time, like always.

That feeling hit Will again. They do this all the time. Well, this time it was a little more. They were way closer.

Usually it's just one arm over the other’s stomach, or a head on the shoulder.

But they were really getting comfortable with each other.

Will thought maybe it's because it's cold. He started to feel all the excuses and bad thoughts come back to him.

This is just how Mike is. It doesn't mean anything more than it did when we were kids. It never will.

He had a worried and broken look on his face. He was glad Mike couldn't see.

He took some deep breaths, and thought twice about this.

Maybe it is more than just what this usually means to them. Mike did offer for Will to lay this close to him. And he tried to think there was more than one reason than just to help fix Will’s neck.

He pushed all that down, and let himself be in the moment. He could feel that Mike was still awake. But Will was getting pretty tired. Slowly Will started to doze off, the comfort of Mike really letting him fall asleep. "Will? I-" Mike paused. He realized Will was sound asleep. Mike took that as a sign to fall asleep too. He also was close to dozing off.

They were both knocked out, peacefully. Both of them not caring that it was only 5pm, and dinner was probably soon.

Because as long as they were comfortable and had the same feeling, then nothing else mattered.

Chapter Text

Mike woke up to what felt like he had slept for years. But it also felt like time hadn't passed at all.

9 pm. The alarm clock read on Mike’s nightstand.

He felt the weight of Will on top of him. It felt comforting. But Mike had also never felt this way before.

He realized he’s never experienced this before. Besides for this morning. But that was just for a second. He didn't get to soak it all in.

Will peacefully asleep. His arm draped on Mike’s lower stomach, the touch making him feel afloat.

Mike all of a sudden had this knot in his stomach. In the way that all of this was making him feel comfortable, but he couldn't quite rest with that fact.

He closed his eyes, trying to fall back asleep. There was too many thoughts he could collect all at once. A billion voices speaking at the loudest volume.

He opens his eyes with pure guilt. He wants to feel comfortable with this. He knows he is. But for some reason he can't accept it.

He decides he needs to get up and keep his mind off this.

He slowly removed Will’s arm and head from his chest, and slid out of bed. He set up the pillow so Will could be comfortable still and not notice.

Mike started picking up clothes from the ground that he couldn't tell if they were clean or dirty.

He started organizing things he didn't even know he owned. Once he got to his desk, he grabbed all of Will’s art supplies and went to put them in the basement.

As Mike walked into the basement, it smelled just like Will. In the way where you’ll randomly get a whiff of a smell you haven't noticed since you were a kid.

He walked towards Will’s desk. He started putting stuff back where he’s almost certain it was before.

As he was putting Will’s DnD binder back, something was stopping it from going into the shelf.

He saw one of Will’s very decorative sketchbooks that looked worn out, but full of Will’s whole world. He pulled it out, moving it out of the way.

He then noticed a blue notebook, one of those medium sized ones that you shove into your school bag and end up forgetting about.

This one didn't seem forgotten though.

It had a few yellow star stickers on it. It looked like Will put them on there to make it more blended in.

Mike had some gut feeling he wasn't supposed to find this. He started to put it back, but couldn't get himself to let it go.

He sat down on the wooden chair that matched the desk, and opened to the first page.

‘Dear journal, it's Will. I’m not really sure how to start this first entry. I heard it helps to write your feelings down if there's no one else to tell. And that's my problem. I’ve had no one to tell this to until right now. And this doesn't even count because I’m not actually telling someone. No one's going to read this. But I’ve had this feeling for someone bottled up in me since basically the first day we met. When we were five. which may seem insane to know how sure I am about loving this person, but I don't care. As long as they're still in my life, as a friend, and maybe one day something more, then I’ll be fine. His presence, kindness, reassurance, and comfort is all I need. Mike has made me feel things I didn't know I could,’

Mike stopped there. Once he saw his name written in that journal with Will’s handwriting. He started to connect the dots.

Everything that has happened in the past 10 or more years of their friendship.

Mike couldn't handle this. He was going south on what he was supposed to be doing. Getting his mind off of whatever he thought was happening with Will.

He put the journal back, and put the rest of Will’s stuff back where it was.

He raced back upstairs to his bedroom, preparing to act natural if Will was awake.

He opened the door, and there Will was, still sleeping peacefully.

Mike decided he was going to try to go back to sleep. It seemed like his only option.

He turned off the lamp that was sitting on his dresser, and the closet light. He closed the door so only the yellow tinted moon could shine through the windows.

He slid back into bed.

Will stirred.

Mike got tense. Trying not to move. Trying not to wake Will up.

Will leaned up a bit, definitely still asleep. He was just shifting positions.

Mike took this chance to lay down and get comfortable.

Once Mike was fully laid down, the covers up to his shoulders, he felt two arms creep around him.

He jumped at first, his stomach going back to that same knot it was in before.

He looked down to see Will was still asleep while doing this. Just an act of sleep-high, of Will trying to get comfortable.

Comfortable with him. with Mike.

Will hugged Mike’s side, nuzzling his head into Mike’s chest.

Will’s breathing went back to his normal sleeping pace after a long exhale.

Mike put his arms around Will. Moving one hand up and down his back.

He thought maybe if he went along with this, that guilty feeling would go away.

He hoped.

He felt a wave of tiredness very quickly after Will settled on him.

He slowly dozed off as well.

‘Mike has made me feel things I didn't know I could’ it kept replaying in his brain every few minutes just before falling asleep.

He ignored it. Pushed it down. That was a problem to think about tomorrow.

Right now, he feels so warm and comfortable. The rain just started back up again.

He let the sound of the rain hitting against the glass windows of his natural lit room from the moon, and Will’s gentleness of weight on him, help him fall asleep.

And for once, it seemed that both of them had fallen asleep with no knots to be untangled, and no feelings left to push down.

Chapter Text

The sun was shining through the window more than normal.

It glared right on Will’s face, waking him up.

It took him a second to open his eyes, getting used to the light, since it had been gloomy for the past two days.

He sat up, forgetting Mike was right next to him. He looked over, looking at every detail on Mike’s face.

His spotted freckles that only stay in one area of his face, the slight pink tone on his cheeks. The way his eyelashes rest on his eyebags. He could look at him like this forever.

He laid back on Mike’s chest. Like he was crawling back to his only sense of comfort. He didn't want this moment to end.

He faced the other way, putting his arm around Mike’s stomach, facing the wall. Will never really paid attention to what was actually on his wall.

The music posters of bands that are way off of Will’s taste. Dungeons and Dragons visuals. He looked closer and realized some of the stuff on Mike’s wall were his drawings. Will’s drawings.

He couldn't believe that after all these years Mike still had such interest in his art.

He nuzzled closer into Mike’s chest.

Sitting with the thought that he knows this is wrong. But he can't get the thought out of his head that maybe this is also what Mike wants. The way he's been acting these past few days are definitely more than best friends type of activities.

Sure, they've always been a bit more with each other than their other friends. But it didn't mean more than just best friends.

And Will wasn't going to let his hopes get too high. He’s convincing himself it's just Mike getting comfortable again, after being a confusing duo for the past couple years.

Will pushed down these confusing feelings, once again. He laid there, doing what they both do in moments like this but don't know it. Soaking it all in.

Mike stirred. Will look up to see him rubbing his eyes open.

“Hi Mike” Will gave a comforting smile.

“Hi” Mike said, still half asleep.

“Sorry, is this okay? I just woke up like this” Will motioning to the position he was in.

“No no, it’s okay. I let you because of your neck, remember?” Mike reassured Will.

“Oh yeah, right,” Will paused, he wanted to say something, but couldn't get more out.

“The rain cleared up” Will slowly moved off of Mike. He didn't want to, but it felt a little too much for the both of them. He could sense it.

He sat back against the pillows of the empty space of the queen sized bed.

“Yeah, I’m kind of bummed though, I liked staying inside. We had a lot of fun yesterday” Mike said, shifting more into the covers to hide from the light.

“Yeah, well we can stay inside again today if you want? I kind of want to just hang out with you” Will also put the covers over him a little more, mimicking Mike.

The morning goes on to them just talking, and no motivation to get out of bed.

They heard the phone ring, interrupting their very intense conversation of who has better skill on Space Invaders.

It rang for a few moments longer until they realized no one else in the house was going to answer it.

Mike got up first, pacing to the phone.

Will got up, the cold air shivering down his spine. He followed Mike to the phone that was in the basement.

“Oh, yeah of course! Will and I will meet you guys there,” Mike was talking on the phone to who seemed like it was Lucas or Dustin.

Will went to his desk to put away the other miscellaneous things as Mike continued talking on the phone.

He soon pieced together that it was Dustin. Will was all for hanging out with him, but he also just wanted to be with Mike alone. He really liked the dynamic they've been having.

Mike hung up the phone, and sat down on the couch that had been in the basement for who knows how long.

“Dustin and Lucas wanted to meet us at the arcade, I’m going to go get ready” Mike said sort of anxiously. He was staring at the desk, specifically where the journal was. He was paranoid that Will would notice that it had been taken from its hiding spot. Even though Mike put it back exactly where he found it.

To avoid the issue, he went upstairs to go get ready.

Will was confused by the sudden change in action. Mike has been sort of slow, and laid back these past couple days.

Maybe he just has a lot of energy, Will thought.

He went to his area in the basement where he had all his clothes and necessities, and picked out an outfit.

He got ready and went upstairs to get a quick breakfast before heading out.

He poured two bowls of cereal for him and Mike.

He was leaning against the counter, not really eating. He was moving the spoon around in the bowl.

Noise from the stairs grew closer, as Will looked up, Mike seemed very frantic.

“Hey, I got you a bowl of cereal” Will pointed to the bowl of half soggy cereal sitting on the counter across from him.

“Oh, thanks but I’m good, let me know when you're ready to go I’ll meet you in the garage” Mike didn't make eye contact.

Now this is getting a little too weird.

Will tries to brush off this weird thing Mike has going on. But he can't. It’s like they're back at square one. Them being awkward, not really talking.

Yesterday they were just fine.

Will cleans up his breakfast and the kitchen a bit before heading to the garage.

Mike was sitting on his bike, messing with the brakes.

“Alright, I’m ready” Mike jumped at the voice. He didn't notice Will coming into the garage.

“Okay then, let's go” Mike was already taking off. Will hadn't even gotten onto his bike yet.

He hurriedly grabs his bike, and hops on, trying to catch up to Mike.

The ride there is silent. Any other outside noise seems to feel awkward.

Will wants to turn around. He’s not even looking forward to this hangout.

He knows he shouldn't let one person's mood ruin everything else for him, but he can't push this feeling away this time.

Why would Mike just spring this act all of a sudden? Did he do something? Was Will being too much? Did he give Mike the wrong idea?

every possible reason started to flood his brain. He wasn't paying attention to where he was riding, and almost crashed into Mike.

They finally make it to the arcade, and they park their bikes next to Dustin and Lucas' who were already there waiting for them.

They walk inside and see them playing Dig Dug.

“Well finally! Took you two long enough” Dustin murmured.

“Sorry! I was waiting for Will to get ready” Mike excused.

Will looked at him, confused. He didn't take that long to get ready. They were basically on time, the bike ride just took a little longer than normal. He didn't want to pick a fight, so he just went along with it.

“Sorry, but we made it! What do you guys wanna play?” Will changed the topic.

Mike was already walking towards the game he wanted to play, Lucas followed him.

“I’m just going to stay here at Dig Dug, okay?” Dustin said, not making eye contact with Will because he was too focused in the game.

“Sounds good, I’ll just watch you play. I’m not really in an arcade mood right now anyways" Will didn't want to lie. After all, he's pretty comfortable with Dustin. He understood Will a little better than Lucas. But not as much as Mike. Who was too wrapped up in another game to even notice that Will was upset.

Less than twenty four hours ago Mike was noticing every detail, every emotion, every move Will was making. He would've noticed right away that Will was upset right now. He would've noticed back at the house. Will didn't want to think about why.

He tried to just pay attention to Dustin’s game, and deal with this later.

After a few hours of being there, and Will’s mood somewhat on the better side after playing a few games, they all were getting ready to head back home.

“Hey do you guys want to come back to mine for a bit? We can watch a movie and eat dinner” Lucas offered.

“Yeah sure! Sounds great” Mike responded awfully quick to that suggestion.

Dustin also agreed, and now they are all looking at Will for his clarification.

“I think I’m just going to head back. You guys go though, don't let me stop you” Will couldn't stand another few hours of this.

He figured maybe if he had some alone time, he could recollect himself. And maybe Mike will turn around this attitude.

“Will, are you sure? We can all do this a different day too, if you want” Lucas suggested.

“No no really, it’s fine. I’m just kind of tired. I’ll probably go home and rest. You guys have fun though!” Will quickly got on his bike and left before any of them could say more.

He went home and immediately went to the basement, sitting at his desk.

He pulled out his journal, and started writing.

‘Dear journal, Mike is being so confusing. The past two days he has been so touchy, and emphatic towards me. He’s always like that. But this time it feels like he's trying to send signals to me. Like he's doing this because he's my best friend, but also more than a best friend. We’ve had so much fun. Just the two of us together is the best company I could ever ask for. He’s so gentle and understanding. But he's also still Mike. He’s funny, and kind. But all of a sudden, a little bit after we woke up this morning, all of that was gone. It felt like when we first saw each other when he was visiting me and El in California. Distant and confusing. Hopefully I can get some clarification on this because it's been tearing me all day. I can't do it. Not again. Those months that Mike and I were distant were the worst months of my life’

Will didn't know what else to say. He was just confused. Nothing was making sense anymore.

He tried to be more open with his feelings, and expressing more, and not thinking twice about what he was doing with Mike. Maybe that's what scared him away. But Mike seemed to like what Will was doing. They matched each other.

Will put his journal back, and decided to go up to Mike’s room.

He just wanted some sort of sense of Mike in his mind.

He laid down on his unmade bed, staring at the ceiling.

He didn't want to think about this anymore, so he fell asleep. Just hoping when he woke up that this was either a dream, or Mike would own up to what’s been going on today.

Chapter Text

Mike could not feel more guilty about what he was doing. He knew how it was affecting the both of them that day. He tried to act normal in the morning which played off pretty well until the arcade.

He just couldn't handle how he knew Will’s side of their relationship, and him having no clue. It's not that he didn't disagree with Will’s feelings, but he just didn't know himself.

But he couldn't think about that right now. He knows he probably should've gone home with Will, but he decided to stay with Lucas and Dustin.

He was at Lucas’ house, downing his third slice of pepperoni pizza, that got half cold on the delivery over to the house. They were watching Lucas play on his Atari. They were watching a movie but got bored of it.

“Mike? Earth to Mike..?” Dustin snapped in his face.

“Yeah, uh sorry. What's up” Mike tried to act casual.

“Dude, what's up with you? You've been zoned out for the past like ten minutes” Dustin defended.

“Sorry, just been thinking about some writing assignment I have for school” Mike replied, finishing off the crust on his pizza.

“Okay, whatever. Lucas!! Come on you’re horrible at this, lemme try” Dustin threw Mike’s words right over his head and went back to bickering.

“Hey, guys, sorry I’m gonna go. I just don't want to leave Will alone for too long” He threw his trash away and started heading towards the door.

“Oh, alright man. See you at school tomorrow” Lucas didn't even glance at Mike.

He sighed as he opened the door, feeling the evening November air hit him, sending shivers through his body.

He grabbed his bike and started heading home.

He worried that Will was upset with him. He wouldn't be shocked, he’d been a dick to him all day. And he knew Will didn't deserve that. He never did. Mike just didn't know how to handle the feeling of knowing something he shouldn't.

He turned the corner to his street hesitantly, not wanting to go. He had some pit in his stomach that made him think this isn't going to go well. The thing is he’s not even sure what it is that's going to happen. But he doesn't like this feeling.

He parked his bike in the garage, and went straight to the basement. He decided to just face his fears and get it over with. He’s still unsure of the exact situation that he's scared of happening. He just hopes Will isn't mad at him.

He opens the door to the basement slowly creeping down the stairs. He didn’t see Will at his desk, or anywhere in the basement. He panicked a little, but scurried up to his room to double check another spot he was sure Will would be at.

He slowly opened the door, making a loud creaking sound. He found Will sprawled out comfortably on his bed. He looked like he was made to be there. Not in any weird way, just like he was made to be in Mike’s room. He just fit perfectly into everything revolving around Mike.

He shook Will a little bit to wake him up. He was a pretty light sleeper, Mike always knew that about him.

Will stirred, sitting up a bit and rubbing his eyes. Once he saw Mike, he developed a small fear in his eyes.

“Hey,” Mike said softly.

“Hey” Will sat up on the edge of the bed.

“Sorry I left for so long, I was going to come back sooner, but Lucas was wrapped up in his game” Mike shifted a little closer to Will, still standing.

“Oh. Yeah sure, whatever it’s fine. I was sleeping anyways” Will had a stern tone. He never does. Mike started to think that the pit in his stomach was right.

“Uh, are you okay? Today just seemed off between us” Mike regretted asking that. He knew exactly what was wrong. It was because he caused the problem.

“Funny for you to ask. You avoided me all day. Did I do something to you in these past couple days? Because I don’t think I did, and you just shutting me out was not cool” Will was never confrontational. Mike felt horrible. Will was right though. He hadn’t done anything to him. This is just Mike not knowing how to handle things.

“Oh. Um, yeah, I’m sorry Will. I don’t really have an explanation on why I was avoiding you. I just have a lot going through my head right now” He wanted to tell Will about the journal, he just couldn’t yet. It didn’t feel right. And Will was already upset. He knew mentioning the journal would cause a bigger weight on the both of them.

“I don’t understand. We tell each other everything. If you have something on your mind you could’ve just told me and we could’ve talked about it. You know I care about you Mike. So I’m confused on why you just ignored me all day because of your feelings, when I know you would’ve come to me in seconds when something is wrong” Will was getting really defensive now. And almost teary eyed.

There was no excuse for what Mike was doing. He hated every second of this. He just couldn’t explain anything.

“Mike, just tell me what’s wrong. I won’t judge you. Gosh, we’ve told each other so much how could that even be a thought” Will stood up, face to face with him.

“Will, I just can’t. I’m sorry you don’t deserve this from me. But just let me deal with it, and it’ll be okay” He didn’t know what else to say now. His mind was too jumbled to say anything else and he didn’t want the wrong thing to come out.

“Okay, but avoiding me all day shouldn’t have been the outcome. It really messed with my feelings. Just because you can’t get together whatever it is that’s so distraught you can’t even tell me, doesn’t mean you need to punish me too” Those words hit Mike like a bullet.

He was out of excuses. He never had any in the first place. He was just saying stuff to say stuff.

Mike stood there, like a lost, hopeless puppy. He stared at Will with his mouth slightly open. He wanted to respond, but just knew it would defeat the both of them more and more.

“Whatever” Will muttered as he bolted out the room, going back down to the basement.

Mike still stood there. He couldn't stand to see Will that way. He’d never seen him that way. That’s what made it hurt more.

He plopped onto his bed, just hoping he’d fall asleep soon. He couldn’t stand the thought of him and Will not being on good terms.

He felt guilty, hopeless, and disgusting. He knows he has to apologize. But with that comes telling the truth about the journal, and he wasn’t ready to admit that yet.

After Will had left Mike’s room, he went to the bathroom. He sobbed his eyes out until he felt empty. None of his questions were answered. He knew Mike wasn’t being like this because of something going on. It was more than that, Mike just didn’t want to share. Which left Will with even more questions than before.

After being in the bathroom for way longer than intended, he headed back downstairs to the basement. The house was quiet, and filled with nothing but the creaks of the stairs as he walked down.

He didn't even bother to get ready for bed. He dragged his shoes off and face planted right into his mattress, letting out a huge shaky sigh.

He hated feeling like this. Confused, and horrible for attacking Mike like that. Part of him thought it was deserved. Which for ignoring him all day and not having a valid excuse for it, it sure seemed deserved. But he knows Mike. And he knows there's a better reason for him avoiding Will like this.

He woke up to a loud bang coming from the basement door. He jumped out of bed and opened it urgently.

“Will! Oh my god I thought something was wrong. Come on we need to leave now” Jonathan was already walking away as he was speaking to Will.

Jonathan is almost never at the Wheeler's in the morning. It must be really late to the point where Jonathan is taking him to school, usually Nancy will give him and Mike a ride every now and then.

He went back downstairs to grab his school bag. He didn't even think twice about changing his clothes until he was already exiting the house. Who cares anymore he thought. He was still in a depressive and unmotivated mood.

He got into Jonathan’s car, throwing his bag in the backseat a little more aggressively than usual.

“Will, you okay?” Jonathan was pulling out of the driveway in a rush.

“Yeah. Just fine” Will hoped it was convincing enough. He really didn't want to play the twenty questions game right now.

“Okay, you just seem a bit tense is all” They were already on the main street, heading towards the high school.

“Well I’m doing just fine” Will leaned his elbow against the door, looking outside.

He saw Mike from a distance, pulling around the corner as well.

He seemed to be doing just fine. Better tha. normal actually. This made Will not want to go to school even more.

Maybe he can just hide out in the art classroom all day, he thought. He was sick and tired of this. It hadn't even been a whole twelve hours since their argument.

Jonathan dropped him off a good half a block away from the school, due to traffic.

He plodded alongside a few other kids who took this walking route to school. He put his headphones in, and couldn't care more about what was going on today. He just wanted to get this day over with.

He saw Mike, Lucas, and Dustin at the bike racks. Which of course, to his luck is right by the entrance he has to go into for his first period. He tried to hide with a group of kids, but it didn't work.

“Will! Over here!” Lucas waved at him, trying to catch his attention.

Will just gave a faint smile and wave, and kept walking. He really didn't want to do this to them. But he couldn't stand being in a radius of Mike right now. It was for the better.

“What’s his deal?” Lucas asked.

“Not sure, late night probably” Mike excused. He knew the exact reason. And yet, he still didn't know how to fix it.

Will’s first period went by so slow. He thinks this is the one day that he actually wishes he wasn't in art. He’s just begging for time to go faster so he can go home.

As the bell rings, he scurries out of class. The first person he sees as he exits the classroom is Mike, also walking the same way as him because of course, they have next class together. And for the rest of the day.

He sits through the next awful three periods just watching the clock.

As lunch hits, he’s not sure where to go. He can't get himself to sit with his friends.

He doesn't even grab lunch. He goes into the art classroom, and sits there for all of lunch. He debates staying in there for the rest of the day. But he decides to just suck it up and deal with the last two hours.

He was in his last class, doodling in his notebook. He felt Mike staring at him from his peripheral vision.

He glanced up to see he was. Mike quickly turned around, feeling exposed.

Will rolled his eyes, and went back to doodling.

Once the final bell rang, he bolted out of school to avoid any of his friends. He started heading towards the parking lot where Jonathan would be waiting. Halfway into the walk he realized Jonathan is definitely at work. It was a Monday afternoon.

He lets out a larger sigh than intended. He grabbed his walkman out of his bag, and put in the same Cure tape he’s had playing the majority of the day. He has to listen to this for the next half an hour walk home. He doesn't mind The Cure, but most of the songs remind him of Mike. They were songs they both picked out together.

He plodded home on this walk of doom. He didn't even want to go home anymore. He had piles of homework from stuff he wasn't even paying attention to today. And facing Mike at some point later on did not excite Will in the slightest.

As he got closer to the Wheeler's, the air got colder. He was wearing a sweater, but it was the same one he wore yesterday that was all sweaty and disgusting from him sleeping in it.

As he got to the house, he went through the garage to avoid anyone at the front door. He snuck into the basement without anyone noticing him.

He sat at his desk, head on the table. He tried to get himself to do at least some work. But that wasn't happening.

A whole hour goes by. He’s now resorted to the couch. He’s staring at the ceiling. No music playing. Just his own thoughts.

They were quickly interrupted by the same bang at the basement door that woke him up this morning.

“Will! Dinner's ready if you're hungry” Mrs Wheeler yelled.

“Got it. Coming!” Will responded, standing up. He really didn't want to go sit at the table with all of them. He didn't mind them. He just couldn't stand it today. Not with Mike also at the table.

He went upstairs, and picked a seat along the right side end of the table.

Mike was already sitting down, on the opposite side.

His body shattered to just look at Mike. He hoped dinner wouldn't take too long.

“I made spaghetti. Since it's pretty chilly outside” Mrs Wheeler started passing a bowl of salad around as well.

Everyone was pretty much eating in silence. A few questions about school every few minutes.

“Will, were you up late last night? I swear I heard rustling coming from the basement” Mrs Wheeler asked.

“Uh, yeah. I was finishing some weekend homework” Will could tell everyone knew that was not believable. He didn't care anymore.

“Alright then, what about you Mike? I heard you bickering again. Were you sleep talking again?” Mrs Wheeler twisted her spaghetti onto her fork.

“Kind of, I guess. Not sure.” Mike stabbed his fork into his salad.

“I had a lot on my mind” He muttered under his breath.

Will darted his eyes at him. He couldn't be more annoyed. Everything was pretty civil all day. He was avoiding him, but no comments were made towards anyone.

“I’m sorry, may I be excused?” Will asked, already standing up.

“Yeah, of course sweetie,” Mrs Wheeler said.

Will put his plate in the sink, and went to the basement. He couldn't handle this anymore. He wanted to talk to Mike. But he also never wanted to speak to him again. It was so stupid. He didn't want to be mad over this, but it did hurt his feelings.

He sat at his desk, pulling out his journal to write another entry.

After a long writing session, he decided to call it an early night. He took a warm shower, because those always comfort him.

He finished getting ready, and headed to bed. It was only eight thirty. He didn't know what else to do with his time.

Usually he and Mike would be in his room having some heartfelt conversation, that made Will rethink their whole relationship.

But no, he's stuck in the basement. At least that's what it feels like. He can't go anywhere else in the house because Mike is probably there.

He started crying a bit. He just wants to talk to his best friend. He feels dumb for being so sensitive about one day of Mike not talking to him. But after what had happened that weekend, it really messed with Will’s mind.

Will went to sleep, heart heavy. He just wanted this to end, and for things to go back to normal.

Chapter Text

It was a long night. Will still hasn't made it to 3am. He’s woken up about five times in the past four hours.

His mind is taking over, and he’s tired of replaying the same memory in his head. Normally when he feels this way, or if he's feeling low or overwhelmed, he sleeps in Mike’s room. But this time, Mike is the reason he’s feeling anxious and defeated.

Could their relationship really change so much in the span of two days? That's impossible. Will just wants everything to go back to how they were. It feels stupid, it feels wrong. It happened too fast, and he's sure Mike doesn't feel very proud of this either. He knows Mike.

He's just too scared to go up and think of something to say. Plus, it wasn't Will’s fault, so why make the first move.

Will is tossing and turning on the small, scuffed mattress for another thirty minutes. He couldn't hear anything besides the buzzing of the half broken heater, and that same stupid memory.

He sat up, head in his knees, and broke. He couldn't do it anymore. Why is such an unimportant fight bothering him so much? He knew there would be some way to fix it. It’s because it's Mike. He only cares about this so much because it has to do with Mike.
He loves him, but those feelings he's pushed down are rising again.

The talks, the laughs, the actions. It all has to mean something. Sure, they did all of this as kids. But friends usually grow out of that stuff. He would never lay on Dustin or Lucas, or have deep conversations about things no one else knows. He would do anything with Mike in a heartbeat. That's what's different.

All these feelings and memories are flooding Will. Everything's back to the beginning. He wishes the connection between him and Mike meant something more. But at the same time he can't let their friendship get ruined.

Will’s breathing was unsteady and shaky now. He didn't even realize how bad he was reacting. He tried to calm himself down before anyone else could hear him.

Too late. There were footsteps, going down the stairs, getting closer to the basement door.

Will laid back down, and pretended to still be sleeping.

The door opened, “Will?”

Mike. It’s Mike.

This made Will’s already unstable feelings skyrocket even further than he could've thought.

He kept still under the blanket that was covering almost his whole body, but his ankles sticking out feeling the eery cold of the basement.

“Will, it’s Mike. You okay?” Mike closed the door behind him, and slowly walked down the stairs, trying to not startle Will.

Will gave in, “Yeah? What?” He did not want this to happen right now. Will had to be careful with what he said. He’s lacking sleep, and just had a panic attack over his feelings for the person slowly coming towards him.

He could only see Mike's figure, it was pitch black.

“I heard noise down here, I just wanted to make sure everything was okay… if you're okay” There it is. Mike did still care, and even though this is bad timing, Will couldn't be more relieved.

“Oh, yeah, I’m fine” Will tried to hide the shakiness in his voice. It was still definitely noticeable.

“Are you sure, Will? Look, I know you might not want to talk to me right now, but I’m still here for you. There's no difference and there never will be” Mike put his hand on Will’s shoulder.

This just made Will feel ten times worse than he did two minutes ago. He feels guilty for feeling this way now. He knows nothing is his fault.

“I don't know, I’m just really overwhelmed. And I was too scared to come up to your room” Will let himself lean into Mike. He felt a bit vulnerable, but he knows Mike won't see it that way.

“Oh Will, I know we left off bad but that never means you can't come to me if you need me. And I’m sorry for making it seem that way” Mike hugged Will. He let Will rest in between him, and wrapped his body tightly around him.

“I know, it was stupid. My feelings are eating me alive. I hate fighting with you” Will got worked up again. He didn't care anymore. He was just glad Mike still cared the same way he always does.

“Will, it's okay. Don't worry. I’m not upset, I never was. I promise. I’m sorry for being a douche to you” Mike’s voice started trembling a bit too.

“Let's talk about this in the morning, okay? It's okay Will, I’m here now. Let's go back to sleep. Do you want to come back to my room?” Mike was being so gentle. Will realized why he loves Mike. He never is too much for Will, and knows him so well. All this crying and being overwhelmed shows that Will has someone who cares this much about him. He has someone who would do anything for him, and he would do the same for Mike.

“Yes please” Mike stands up and helps Will up. He still has an arm wrapped around Will. It's like it's supposed to be there. Every part of them fits like a puzzle piece. The kind of puzzle piece that fits on the first try, and the rest.

They quietly head back up to Mike’s room. Mike adjusts the pillows and covers to make it extra comfy for Will.

Mike gets in bed and opens the covers for Will to welcome him in.

He signals for Will to come closer, wrapping an arm around him so Will can lay on his shoulder.

Will is so tired and his eyes hurt from crying. He nuzzles closer into Mike’s neck, and lets out a sigh. A comforting one.

He feels at home. He doesn't care what this means anymore. As long as Mike is comfortable with it and wants it, then so does Will. No matter the label. Best friends or more, who cares. Will has someone he can feel this way about.

Mike rubs his hand slowly up and down Will’s back. It calms Will down and his breathing gets lighter and lighter, till he eventually falls asleep.

Mike’s left awake. He’s thinking. Now his thoughts are taking over. He wonders why Will cared so much about this. He does know. He keeps forgetting he has all the answers to these nonsense questions.

Mike tries to not think about it too hard. He just wants to sleep. He's glad Will still felt comfortable enough to fall asleep with him. He missed this feeling. Laying in his bed with the comfort of the dark, Will laying on him so peacefully.

Mike knows what he did. The guilt tries to take over him.

He tries to fall asleep, and focuses on Will.

He looks down. Will looks so peaceful, and comforted. Mike never wants to look away, or leave this moment. He lets himself be in this exact moment. Instead of trying to brush off those feelings that keep popping up. He lets himself accept it. He loves Will, best friends or more, the feeling is still the same.