Byler "Fading Colors"

After graduating from high school, Will left Hawkins. He thought a new town would finally help him feel better. But instead, he was overcome with a constant feeling of fatigue. School no longer brought joy, his favorite drawings remained unfinished, and the days blurred together. More and more often, it felt like he was simply observing his own life from the outside.

Will eventually took a leave of absence and bought a ticket home.

"Darling..." Joyce hugged him tightly as soon as he stepped over the threshold.

"Glad you're home," Hopper said quietly, taking his bag.

No one questioned the reasons. And for that, Will was grateful.

A few days later, while walking along familiar streets, he accidentally ran into Mike.

-"Will?.."

-"Hello."

• "You should be in college."

-"Must."

There was an awkward silence.

“Do you want to go for a walk?” Mike finally asked.

Will just nodded.

They walked in silence for a long time. It seemed words were unnecessary. Only after some time did Mike quietly say:

-"You look tired."

Will chuckled, keeping his eyes on the road.

• "I think... I just forgot what it's like to feel normal."

Mike didn't answer. He just moved a little closer until their shoulders were almost touching.

At that moment, Will realized that perhaps he hadn't returned to Hawkins because of the house at all. But because of the man with whom, for the first time in a long time, he no longer felt alone.