byler "Only Us"

Several years passed after graduation. School, Hawkins, and everything they had been through were behind them. Mike and Will moved to New York, spent time with friends, and started a new life.

After years of doubt, Mike realized his feelings for Will were more than just friendship. Now they were together, and their relationship felt natural.

One evening, Will persuaded Mike to go to a club.

• "You spend too much time at home."

— “I just like quiet evenings.”

— “And I love it when you sometimes step out of your comfort zone.”

Mike smiled and agreed.

The club was noisy, music was playing, and Will looked happy. Mike couldn't help but smile as he looked at him.

As Will walked towards the bar, a stranger approached Mike.

— "Hello. Can I buy you something?"

— “I don’t think it’s worth it.”

But the guy just grinned.

• "You look like you were dragged here."

Mike laughed, and they continued their short conversation. It meant nothing to him—just politeness. But from the outside, it looked different.

When Will returned, he stopped a few steps away from Mike. He saw the stranger leaning too close to him, and Mike smiling at his words.

Will didn't say anything. He just walked over and stood next to her.

— “Am I in the way?”

Mike looked at him in surprise.

— "What? No, of course not."

The stranger looked from Mike to Will and understood the situation.

— "I didn't know."

“Now you know,” Will answered calmly.

The guy left, and Mike looked at Will with surprise.

• "You're acting a bit strange today."

• "In terms of?"

— “I don’t know. It’s like you want to be around all the time.”

Will looked away.

— “Maybe I just want to spend the evening with you.”

Mike smiled, but noticed it wasn't just that. He just didn't yet understand what exactly had upset him.

But Will didn't explain. He just stayed close to Mike for the rest of the night, occasionally stealing glances at him.