byler "First Violin"

Will Byers, 22. Violinist and orchestral concertmaster. Gay.

Quiet, slightly reserved, and observant, Will is quite stubborn despite his gentle nature and isn't afraid to calmly contradict even Mike. He dislikes the spotlight, but on stage he transforms completely, devoting all his emotions to the music.

Will is openly proud of his sexuality and is completely unashamed of being gay. He actively supports the LGBTQ+ community, attends LGBTQ+ events, and has even attended several Pride parades. He sees no shame in who one loves, so he genuinely doesn't understand why anyone would hate themselves for their own feelings.

Will has a Russian greyhound named Marfa. Unfortunately, Will had to leave her home alone most of the day. Marfa was a calm and tidy dog, so she wasn't a problem.

Will is very attentive to people and quickly notices changes in their behavior. Therefore, he will likely notice Mike's ambivalent attitude toward him before Mike is ready to admit it.

Mike Wheeler, 23. Orchestral conductor. Bisexual.

Demanding, focused, ambitious, and at times blunt. During rehearsals, he's used to maintaining control and doesn't tolerate sloppiness. Outside of work, he's much calmer and gentler, though he rarely reveals this side to others.

Mike has long known that he's attracted to men as well as women. He's not homophobic and never judges others' sexuality, but he views himself very differently. He's terrified and irritated by his own ability to feel for men. So when he begins to be attracted to Will, Mike tries to convince himself it's just a professional interest.