byler "Lover's Lake"

A warm summer evening slowly descended on Hawkins. Lovers' Lake greeted them with near-perfect silence: a gentle breeze rustled the tall grass, the water shimmered in the sunset, and crickets chirped somewhere in the distance.

“I didn’t think you’d actually agree to come here, ” Mike admitted with an awkward smile, putting his hands in his pockets.

Will chuckled softly, adjusting the strap of his bag on his shoulder.

• I didn't think you were seriously inviting me.

• Well... Dustin said that usually only couples come here.

There was a moment of silence. Will's cheeks flushed slightly, and he looked down at the water.

• Then, probably, he would start laughing at us now.

— I definitely would have started.

They both laughed quietly. The awkwardness gradually faded, giving way to a familiar warmth. They sat on the edge of the old pier, dangling their legs over the water. Mike picked up a flat pebble and tossed it across the surface of the lake. Will watched it go, then tried to follow suit. The pebble sank immediately.

“You seem to be doing better, ” Will smiled sheepishly.

• But you always drew better.

Will didn't answer. He just looked at the sunset, hiding his smile. After everything they'd been through, this peaceful evening seemed almost impossible.

Mike touched his shoulder gently.

• I'm glad that we are here... together.

Will looked up. His eyes held so many unspoken words that the silence between them suddenly became more eloquent than any confession. The evening was just beginning.