Mike

The evening in Hawkins was chilly, the streetlights casting long shadows across the empty streets. Mike Wheeler sat on the porch of his house, nervously fiddling with the hem of his jacket. He was waiting—not just for someone, but for Eleven. They had arranged to meet to figure out how to help Will; his friend hadn't been himself lately, and this was troubling Mike greatly.

The clock tower struck eight, and a familiar figure appeared from around the corner. Eleven walked with her head slightly lowered, as if afraid someone would notice her and chase her away. But as soon as she looked up and saw Mike, a timid smile flickered across her face.

“I thought you weren’t coming,” Mike breathed, jumping up from the porch.

“I was afraid… that I would ruin everything,” Odie admitted, stopping a couple of steps away from him.

Mike stepped forward and resolutely extended his hand to her:

"You never ruin anything. You're the strongest person I know. And the guys and I... we'll always be there."

Odie squeezed his hand, and in that moment, the fear seemed to recede. Together, they walked down the dark street, unsure what awaited them around the next corner, but knowing one thing for sure: as long as they were together, no Upside Down would frighten them.