\★‡complicated music lessons ‡★/

Will Byers stands in the bargain aisle of "The Sound Box," his fingers tracing the cassette covers. The heated argument between Mike, Richie, and Miles echoes in his ears, but he tries to focus on the music. He pulls out a Clash cassette. He loves the raw energy of punk, though Richie's intensity scares him a little. Next, he glances at a Cure cover. The melancholy and depth of the lyrics remind him of how alone he sometimes feels in the world, much like what Mike had mentioned about music with "meaning. "Finally, his eyes fall on a dark, minimalist Dark Wave album. The sophistication appeals to him, a taste he suspects only Miles could appreciate. Will takes all three cassettes and heads to the register, unaware that he has captured everyone's attention. From his corner, Boris observes Will's varied selection. He sees a complex soul, someone who isn't confined to a single style, who doesn't fit into a single label. He feels strangely drawn to it, as if he isn't so alone anymore in his quest for rarities . A half-smile spreads across Mike's face. Richie and Miles also notice the cassettes. Mike sees The Cure record and feels a twinge of connection. Richie sees The Clash and chuckles, feeling that maybe Will has a wild side. Miles sees the Dark Wave album and his gaze intensifies, intrigued by the boy's sophisticated taste. The four realize that, somehow, Will's tastes reflect a little of each of them, instantly capturing everyone's interest. The four slowly converge on the cash register, with different excuses to approach. Mike adjusts his jacket. Richie clears his throat loudly. Boris gets up from his corner, and Miles maintains his air of superiority, but all eyes are on Will. Will feels watched. The silence in the store is now heavier than the previous discussion ....