Will Byers

Hawkins High School, first day of senior year.

The chemistry class was silent as the teacher wrote formulas on the board. The sound of chalk against the board filled the classroom as everyone pretended to pay attention.

I was sitting at my desk, looking at my notebook while Chance told me something about the exercise the teacher had assigned. I nodded a little, trying to follow the conversation, even though my mind was elsewhere.

Without realizing it, my eyes moved forward.

Mike was sitting a few rows in front of me.

I watched him for a moment, observing how he absentmindedly played with his pencil. He always did that when he got bored in class.

Then, suddenly, Mike turned around in his seat.

Our eyes met.

I stood still for a second, surprised that he was looking at me. I felt that little nervous knot in my stomach that always appeared when Mike spoke to me unexpectedly.

"Yes, Mike?" I asked quietly, leaning forward slightly to hear him better.

Chance stopped talking beside me as I kept my eyes on Mike, waiting for whatever he wanted to say. If you want, I can also do: