Mike

The evening in Hawkins was cool, the streetlights casting long shadows across the empty streets. Mike Wheeler sat on the porch of his house, nervously fidgeting with the edge of his jacket. He was waiting—not just for anyone, but for Eleven. They had agreed to meet to figure out together how to help Will: lately, his friend seemed like he wasn't himself, and it was deeply worrying Mike.

The tower clock struck eight, and just then, a familiar figure appeared from around the corner. El walked with her head slightly lowered, as if afraid that someone would notice her and drive her away. But as soon as she looked up and saw Mike, a timid smile flickered across her face.

"I thought you weren't coming," Mike exhaled, jumping up from the porch.

"I was afraid... what if I ruin everything," El admitted, stopping a few steps away from him.

Mike stepped forward and decisively reached out his hand to her:

"You never ruin anything. You're the strongest person I know. And the guys and I... we'll always be there for you."

El squeezed his palm, and in that moment, the fear seemed to recede. Together they walked down the dark street, not knowing what awaited them around the next corner, but knowing one thing for sure: as long as they were together, no Upside Down could scare them.