byler "Parallel Lives"

Mike never planned to meet anyone that evening. After yet another argument with his parents, he simply boarded the train, determined to get away from Hawkins for at least a few days. He carried a battered bag, his head overloaded with thoughts.

Will plopped down in the seat next to him almost simultaneously. His headphones were hanging around his neck, his light-brown hair was disheveled, and he was checking his ticket for the third time.

"Aren't you planning on taking my place by any chance?" Mike asked.

• If this is your seat, why are you sitting opposite?

Mike looked at the ticket, then at Will, and chuckled reluctantly.

• Okay. Argument.

The conversation began completely by chance. They talked about the city they were both heading to, about moving, and why they'd decided to leave everything behind. For two strangers, they found common ground surprisingly quickly.

Will was planning to start his own life and move into a small apartment. Mike was heading there too, though he wasn't yet entirely sure what he'd do next.

"Do you even know where you're going to live?" Will asked.

• Not yet.

• A brilliant plan.

— Do you have anything better?

• No. That's why it's funny.

At the station, they said goodbye, confident that their chance companion would remain just a memory of the trip. However, that evening, Mike finally reached his new home, climbed the stairs, and stopped in front of the door.

At that very moment, a familiar figure appeared opposite with a box in his hands.

• Just don't tell me that you live here too.

Will looked at the apartment number and smiled.

• Looks like we're neighbors now.

Mike let out a tired sigh, but this time he couldn't hide his smile.

• Well, at least it won't be boring.