#mike wheeler fic

[redroses07]

favorite canadian

[misswhyso]

think about how the end feels very much like the beginning, how the future only holds the horror of the unknown. and just like they were at twelve years old, mike and dustin find themselves sitting at the quarry—maybe dustin had blown up at steve after a long day, maybe nobody was listening to mike. whatever the case: there they are at the quarry, sitting in silence. palms against gravel. wind howling like the wolves are home. then, with his gaze fixed on the crashing waves, mike says, “i dream about it.”

dustin stills. some things you don’t have to say out loud.

“all the time.” mike draws his knees to his chest. he is thinking about the burning sun, the drag of a dead body from the water. funny how everything feels fresh, raw—it never matters how long ago it has been. it's like they're twelve all over again. “in my head i see the four of us here, again. and i can see it—it’s always so clear, how sharp the knife is. and they won’t let you go. dustin, they won’t let you go.”

a sharp breath. dustin leans forward, says, “mike—”

“and,” he interrupts. the words spill out of him, reckless, relentless. “and it’s the same thing, always. they ask me to jump, and—i have no choice, you know? it’s me or you. of course it has to be me.”

a pause. he swallows thickly. three steps away from him, dustin looks at him with wide, wet eyes. “so i jump. there’s no other choice.”

“that’s bullshit,” dustin chokes out. “that’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever said.”

maybe he should stop while he’s still in dustin’s good graces, pull them back from the edge of it. but it’s so mike wheeler, isn’t it? always driving the knife in. forever walking away, debris scattered around him. 

he says, “in my dreams, el doesn’t come.” 

he says, “and i fall. i just—fall. one second it’s cold and then—nothing.”

mike closes his eyes. he can’t bear the weight of dustin’s gaze; how did he get by all these years, hanging onto the brightest kids he knows? will, dustin, lucas. max. el. he never deserved them. he never deserved any of them.

inhale. exhale. a confession lays on the tip of his tongue.

“and it’s good,” he finally says. this is the truth, the only thing he knows with certainty. “it’s a good dream.”

[elposting]

if I wrote a byler fic/ one shot based on “bad idea, right?” would any of you read it

edit: https://archiveofourown.org/works/49556137 y'all it's done!!

[poisonedprose]

could you write mike wheeler comforting fem reader after she has a nightmare during a sleepover in mikes basement? i love your writing xx

₊˚✧ your smile, my ghost

mike wheeler x gn!reader

warnings: 0.4k words, nightmares, pretty much just fluff, angst if you squint

masterlists

Your chest heaved as you tried to catch your breath, sitting up quietly and carefully, next to Mike on the cramped couch in his basement. You debated waking him up, begging him to shield you from the horrors of your own mind. You sighed and ran your hands along your face, tears beginning to prick at your eyes. 

"What the fuck are you doing?" Mike's drowsy voice startled you, almost making you jump at the sound. You don't answer him, thinking of what you could say. "I'm just thinking." Your voice was shakey and honestly a little alarming to Mike. "Thinking about what? It's the middle of the night." He was sitting up now too, his hand coming up to the small of your back. 

He wasn't fully awake yet, only really aware that you weren't sleeping when you should be. The small contact of his hand on your back was comforting. "I just had a nightmare, that's all." You said it nonchalantly as if what your mind had just plagued you with wasn't making you just about ready to burst into sobs. 

Mike let out a soft "oh" before returning to silence. The hand on your back began rubbing small circles, trying to comfort you. Mike wasn't the smartest but he was smart enough to figure out if the nightmare had woken you up and made your voice shake, even though it was only slightly noticeable, it couldn't have been good.

Mike had never been good at these sorts of things. When his little sister would cry because one of her toys broke and he would act like a deer in headlights. Or when his parents had their arguments and he didn't quite know what to say to make his mom stop crying. 

"What.. What was it about?" He said it unsure if he even should of. He didn't want to upset you further or make you feel obligated to tell him. "If you wanna talk about it." He was quick to add, the sleepiness still washing out of his voice. He smiled at you softly, letting you know it was okay. You shook your head, you knew talking about it would help but you didn't want to burden him with your nonsensical problems. 

"Okay." He nodded, silently grateful that you declined his offer. The silence that filled the air was calming to you. Just having Mike by your side and his hand warming your back was enough to soothe you back to your sleepy state. As you lay back down on the couch, Mike was kind enough to let you lay on his chest as you dozed back to sleep. Maybe with his cold arms wrapped around your body, you could sleep through the night with no more nightmares. 

 ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎┊ㅤㅤ 🌾 ㅤㅤ ﾟㅤㅤ ┊

[bidoldaccount]

Window Into The Teenage Soul - Part 12 (END)

Series Guide

Pairing: Mike Wheeler / Female Reader

"Y/n!" Elle and Max ran up to her first, tackling her to the grass.

"Make room!" Will screamed, jumping ontop of their pile. Mike smiled as he got out of the drivers seat, watching as Y/n smiled wide from under the three of her friends. Lucas and Dustin patted him on the back with almost relived smiles.

"I missed you guys!" Y/n screamed happily from under Elle, her arms trying to wrap around all three of them.

"Excuse me, we want some love," Dustin said, shoving Max and Will to the grass. He helped Y/n stand and wrapped his arms around her. Lucas joined in, and soon they were all hugging each other.

"I'm so happy to be back," she said, sighing softly as she was welcomed back into her friends collective warmth.

"Come on," Mike smiled, "Steve's waiting for us at the restaurant."

"Yes, It's time to spoil Y/n will endless breadsticks," Elle said, smiling as she tugged Y/n's hand. Mike wrapped his arm around her shoulders, kissing her forehead with a happy smile.

[shutuperce]

so guess who’s back in the fic game (it’s me)

prologue & first chapter out now 

[l0v3sickl0s3r]

OMG THIS IS SO PERFECT THE Y/N WAS SO IN CHARACTER AND SO LOVING AND MIKE WAS SO CUTE AND ANGSTY IT MADE ME FEEL FEELINGS WAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

First time doing this , im not even sure if this is how you request something sorry if not + this is not my firts languaje sorry again . I JUST CANT GET OVER THE THOUGHT OF COMFORTING MIKE WHEN HE FEELS INSECURE AAAAAA having the biggest Mike br rn

bother || mike wheeler x reader

a/n : tysm for the request! i hope u enjoy! &

@m1ke-wheeler tysm for the request awell <3

unedited

fluff mostly, bit of angst

Mike Wheeler, a loser, and his popular girlfriend, Y/n walked hand in hand to every class each day.

It was a ritual that almost everyone at hawkins high knew.

“Bye Mikey.” Y/n chirped as she pressed a kiss to his sharp jaw, his face turning red from the affection.

Even after all this time she still gave him butterflies like no other.

“See you.” He whispered letting go of her hand as she walked into her science class.

Mike sighed that she was now gone but continued on to where he was supposed to be, Mike hated this particular class since he had no one to talk to- who would want to be friends with him? His hellfire shirt scared off any potential peers.

Mike walked over to his seat and sat down, keeping his head held low. He was aware of all the eyes on him, but he decided to ignore them. He was used to it at this point, people who knew nothing about him judging him like they did.

Y/n had always told him not to give them power, not let them see they were bothering him.

So that’s what he always did.

“Why is she even going out with that nerd?” Her heard a girl whisper, he knew it was about him.

Don’t let them bother you.

“She has Andy and Chance chasing after her, lucky bitch.” He heard another girl reply- Mike’s stomach dropped, Andy and Chance? Weren’t those basketball players? They liked

Y/n? What chance did Mike have against the two most popular boys in the school?

No no, Mike don’t freak yourself out. Y/n loves you. You and only you.

Don’t let these girls bother you.

Mike tried to reassure himself but he didn’t feel much better.

Oh well, by next period he should be better. When he finally got to see her.

When he finally got to hold Y/n by the hand and take her to her next class, that simple four minute passing period would definitely lift his spirits.

“Y’know I heard Andy was gonna ask her out.” He snapped out of his thoughts when he heard that,

“No way. She’s dating-“ Girl number two paused ‘lowering’ her voice as she spoke.

“That guy.” Mike could feel their eyes bore into him, and if he could? He’d sink into the floor.

“And? You think Andy can’t take him on? The boys a stick!” The last part was whispered he’d guessed to try and save his feelings, She didn’t do a very good job.

“Stop that’s so mean!” Girl number one said yet still cackled like it was the funniest thing she’s heard all year.

“Whatever, i’m sure Y/n will come to her senses soon enough.” Mike finally poked his head up- seeing Mandy and Georgia, Y/n’s friends and two of the most popular girls in school. They were staring right at him.

They quickly looked away when they saw him look, giggling while doing so.

Mike felt sick, sick because they were right.

He was a freak. Y/n could have anyone she wanted- why did she choose him? And to hear those mean words from her own friends?

He didn’t think he was very attractive, nor very strong. She could have someone who was everything he wasn’t at the snap of a finger.

His thoughts began to consume him, he tried not to let it bother him but it was hard because it just made sense to him, so much so he forgot to pick Y/n up from her class.

“Mike!” Y/n called to him, he turned from his locker and watched as she happily jogged up to him.

It was then he realized he had forgotten.

How could he forget something like that?Leaving her all alone? What a good boyfriend he was..

“Hey Mikey.” she chirped, leaning against the locker next to his.

“Hi.” He said blandly, turning to face her.

Odd, but she proceeded.

“So, you wanna go see ‘The Thing’ after school? Heard it’s scary.” She smiled, knowing he had said he wanted to go earlier that week.

However he shook his head quickly, unable to look her in the eyes. He was almost afraid that if she could look into his eyes she could see everything he’d heard written through his expression and he was worried she’d agree.

“Uhm, no I can’t tonight- My dad! He wants to- take me to dinner…” He rambled, again looking anywhere but her.

“Oh.” She murmured, feeling a bit dejected. But who was she to not encourage him and his dad hanging out? They’ve never had a great relationship, and If Ted wanted to try and fix it she wouldn’t get in his way.

“You wanna hangout later this week then?” She asked afterwards, trying to look into his eyes.

He avoided it.

“I don’t know.” He muttered, looking down at the floor.

“You don’t know?” She asked, realizing he was now just downright rejecting her.

He shook his head and closed his locker then finally looked her in the eyes.

“I mean, I don’t know if I can- i’ll let you know.” He quickly said, then walked away.

Without a goodbye.

“Mike-“ She went to call after him but realized it was pointless, she decided to just go to class and ignore the tears forming in her eyes.

Maybe he was just having a bad day.

It’s not like he just dumped her.

Quit being such a crybaby.

Everything was going to be okay.

Right?

A whole week later of no contact.

Y/n was going insane.

She had tried to call to him multiple times in the halls only for him to blatantly ignore her or walk the opposite way.

She’d been calling his home, only to get his mom or dead air on the other end of the phone.

She had to trap him, so he couldn’t avoid her.

She thought he was doing that classic boy thing, where they are mean to a girl until they get the girl to break up with them.

And Y/n was not having it.

She rode her bike to Mike’s house as soon as school was out.

She threw her bike on the lawn, walking up to the front door with confidence.

Then she knocked on the door and waited.

Her confidence beginning to falter as she waited for what felt like hours.

What if he just sent her home?

What if he broke up with her on the spot?

Maybe this was all just a bad idea…

Nancy opened the door.

“Y/n?”

“H-Hi, can I see Mike?” Y/n asked nervously, rocking on her feet.

“Of course.” Nancy smiled, stepping back to welcome her in. “I think he might be in his room.”

Mike however was down in his basement feeling sorry for himself, he’d wrapped himself in a big blanket and was currently cocooning himself in his little fort.

He’d been reclusive since the day he heard those two girls talking, because everything just made sense.

Y/n was too good for him.

She truly was, Mike was just waiting for the day she’d knock on his door and break up with him.

Break his heart.

“Mike!” Nancy called down the basement, Mike scowled at how loud his sister was.

Groaning and rolling over- he sometime wished his fort would turn into a gate to the upside down. So he could just escape it all.

“You’re girlfriend is here to see you!” Nancy called- Mike felt his stomach twist, here she was. She was going to break up with him.

“Tell her i’m not home!” Mike shouted back, flopping to his side and tightening his blanket around him.

If he didn’t see her, technically she couldn’t break up with him.

“Ouch.” Y/n muttered, as she looked to her boyfriends sister. Nancy offered her a sympathetic look and shrugged.

Y/n sighed

“Can I go down?“ She asked,

“Be my guest.” Nancy said then turned to whisper in her ear. “Mike’s been in a funk recently, have fun.”

Y/n swallowed her nerves and made her way down, but was confused when she didn’t see Mike right away.

He was nowhere to be seen.

“Mike?” She called out- Mike stayed silent, realizing Nancy had let her down despite what he said. He quickly moved his foot that was hanging out of the fort.

Y/n heard the shuffle and made her way towards the fort- Mike held his breath the entire time.

But to no avail, Y/n kneeled down and moved the blanket that was covering the fort like a door.

“Knock knock.” She whispered, she melted at how cute Mike looked- all wrapped up in his little blanket,

“Y-Y/n..” Mike sat up immediately after seeing his beautiful girlfriend.

He was supposed to be avoiding her,

But he’d missed her face.

“Hey.” She sighed, scooting into the fort and letting the blanket fall behind her. Now it was just them, alone in the cozy fort.

“Listen, I don’t know what I did but-“ She started, already looking uncomfortable that she had to be having this conversation.

“If you’re gonna break up with me…don’t play the long game. Get it over with please.” She quickly said her eyes beginning to gloss.

“What?” Mike asked, letting his grip on his blanket falter.

“I’m going insane trying to figure out what I did wrong.” She rambled, the tears in her eyes making mike cringe-

What a good boyfriend he was…he made her cry.

“So if you’re going to do it just- do us both a favor and do it now.” She said as her voice quivered, her hand quickly wiping the tears that had managed to fall.

“Y/n no, I don’t wanna breakup with you.” Mike sighed shakily, reaching forward for her hand.

Y/n looked up at him hopefully.

“You don’t?” She asked.

He shook his head and began to feel himself get a bit choked up.

“No-No, the opposite I wanna uhm…” He began but found himself at a loss for words.

He wanted to be with her, that’s ALL he wanted.

But he didn’t feel good enough for her, she deserved someone better than Mike.

But Mike was selfish, he knew Y/n deserved the world and more- but he wanted her all to himself. It was a constant internal battle for him.

Y/n must’ve sensed him getting lost in his thoughts, she ran her thumb along his knuckles giving him a reassuring smile.

“Why have you been avoiding me?” She asked.

“I’m sorry.” Mike whispered, looking away from her.

She moved her head so she was in his line of sight again.

“Don’t say sorry, tell me why.” She whispered back.

She saw his face finally fall, his eyes watered as he looked absolutely defeated.

“It’s just-“ He started,

“I don’t know-“ He groaned.

He caught her expectant eyes,

“I don’t know how to- say it.” He admitted.

“It’s okay, throw some words out- i’ll put them together.” She assured him.

“I-“

“I don’t..” He couldn’t find the words.

“I want you to-“ He tried again.

“I don’t like how many guys…like you.” He blurted, then covered his face with his hand in embarrassment.

“You’re gorgeous and I understand that’s how it’s gonna be but-“ He continued then peaked through his hands.

“I don’t understand why you keep choosing me.” he finally admitted.

“Mike…” Y/n whispered, her heart breaking at the state her boyfriend was in.

“I’m just- Dorky.. and i’m not strong like the basketball guys, you deserve so much better than me.” He kept going, pouring his entire heart out to Y/n- He didn’t wanna cry, the lump in his throat made him sure he was going too but he didn’t want to.

His dad always taught him men don’t cry.

Beside that why would he cry? it’d only make Y/n feel worse and he was a bad enough boyfriend already.

“Mike.” She tried to stop him again, he was too lost in his head.

“Everyone knows you can do better, and sooner or later you’re gonna realize that too.”

“Mike!” She said with a loud voice making him finally look at her.

“Sorry.” He quickly whispered, wiping the few stray tears that fell.

She grabbed onto his hands, so he couldn’t wipe his tears any more,

“Who even put these things in your head?”

“People talk y’know?” He murmured, ashamed while sniffling lightly. He really hated crying in front of people, especially his girlfriend.

He couldn’t help by feel weakened by it.

“Well don’t listen to the ‘talk’, I want you. And only you.” She sighed out rubbing his knuckles.

“But why?” He asked again,

She grabbed onto his face, rubbing his cheeks as she looked at him sorrowfully.

"I...sometimes, I guess I kinda wish you could see yourself through my eyes Mike." Y/n whispered. pressing one kiss against his chin.

“You’re caring, you’re funny, you’re handsome. You make me feel like i’m floating on air.” She continued the praises, kissing his nose.

“And you ARE strong.” she then kissed his temple before moving to his ear to whisper,

“Strongest guy I know.”

“You could lose absolutely everything yet still keep going like nothing, I admire you for that.” She kissed his lips, the kiss they shared was drawn out- their lips missed each-other. Although it’s only been a week. When they pulled away their lips lingered.

“And you totally did kill like 2 demodogs so strong in that aspect too-“ she whispered her breath fanning his face as she joked- Mike was able to choke out a chuckle.

“Mike you are the most beautiful person i’ve ever met. Don’t let a couple of assholes ever make you feel otherwise.” She assured him then smiled.

“Okay? I love you. And ONLY you.”

“You’re stuck with me forever.”

“Mhm.” He hummed, the smile dawning on his face making the room seem to light up.

“M’ sorry. I wasn’t trying to bother-“ He tried to apologize for the past week but,

“You’re never bothering me.” She cut him off,

“Just tell me what you’re feeling next time. I don’t wanna think about losing you ever again.” She finished and wrapped her arms around his neck bringing him in for the first hug they’ve had in days.

He wrapped his arms around her waist, smelling her sweet perfume.

god did he miss it.

“I love you.” He murmured, burying his head in the crook of her neck.

“I love you more.”

[clarii]

Operation ‘Fix Eddie’s Screw-Up’

Summary: A year ago, Eddie Munson made a mistake he’s regretted ever since. When you walk into the video store where he works with Robin and Steve, old wounds resurface, and Eddie’s left grappling with the past. It doesn’t take long for Steve, Robin, and the kids to notice—and they decide to take matters into their own hands to fix things.

Pairing: Eddie Munson x Reader

Warnings: Angst, fluff

Author’s note: Good morning guys, I felt like Tumblr was lacking on some good old angst and fluff stories of him without any smut. This one is kinda long.

Eddie Munson’s job at Family Video wasn’t glamorous, but it was steady. After everything with the Upside Down, normalcy was a welcome relief. The place was rarely busy, which left plenty of time for him, Steve, and Robin to mess around behind the counter and argue over who was more tolerable to customers.

“Come on, Stevie,” Eddie said one slow Thursday afternoon, lazily spinning a VHS tape between his fingers. “Don’t act like you don’t love when middle-aged moms ask you to recommend a rom-com.”

“Better than you scaring them off with your metalhead charm,” Steve shot back.

Robin snorted from the counter. “Please, you’re both terrible. I’m the only one holding this place together.”

The three of them fell into easy banter, their laughter echoing through the empty store. Eddie had just started recounting a ridiculous D&D campaign he’d run when the bell above the door jingled.

“Welcome to Family Video!” Robin chirped without looking up from her inventory list.

Eddie, however, froze. His voice caught in his throat, his grip tightening on the tape in his hands. He didn’t need to turn around to know it was you. He’d recognize your presence anywhere.

A year. It had been a whole year since the last time he’d seen you—since the night he’d screwed everything up.

You didn’t even glance his way as you walked toward the shelves, your focus entirely on the rows of tapes. Your hair, your stance, the way you moved—it all hit him like a freight train, dragging memories to the surface that he’d tried so hard to bury.

“Uh, Eddie?” Steve nudged him, eyebrows raised. “You good, man?”

“Yeah,” Eddie mumbled, though his voice was tight. He forced himself to turn away, but he couldn’t stop glancing at you out of the corner of his eye.

When you finally approached the counter with your rental, you placed it down without a word.

Robin, picking up on the tension, stepped forward to help. “Oh, this one’s good! Classic rom-com—”

“Just the tape, please,” you said curtly, cutting her off. Your voice wasn’t sharp, but it wasn’t warm, either.

Eddie didn’t dare speak. He kept his hands busy with the register, avoiding eye contact. When you paid and took your receipt, you turned on your heel and left without so much as a glance back.

The bell jingled again as the door closed behind you.

Eddie’s eyes, however, stayed fixed on the door long after you were gone.

It didn’t take long for Steve and Robin to notice.

“Okay, spill,” Robin said, crossing her arms and leaning against the counter. “What was that?”

“Yeah, dude,” Steve added. “You looked like you’d seen a ghost.”

Eddie sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. He could feel their eyes boring into him, and he knew there was no getting out of this.

“That was her,” he said finally, his voice low.

“Her who?” Robin asked.

“The girl,” Eddie clarified. “The one I told you about. The one I…” He trailed off, the words catching in his throat.

“The one you majorly screwed over last year?” Robin guessed, her eyebrows shooting up.

Eddie winced. “Yeah, that one.”

Steve and Robin exchanged a look, and Eddie groaned.

“Don’t start, okay? I already know I’m an idiot. I’ve known for a year.”

Robin leaned forward, her expression curious. “Okay, but what exactly happened? You’ve never given us the full story.”

Eddie hesitated. It wasn’t something he liked to talk about, but he knew they weren’t going to let it go.

“She and I were… close,” he admitted. “Really close. She came to Hellfire sometimes, we’d hang out after school—she even helped me set up a few campaigns. But then, right before graduation, I panicked.”

“Panicked about what?” Steve asked, genuinely curious.

“About her,” Eddie said, his voice bitter. “She was everything I wasn’t. Smart, grounded, going places. And me? I was just the town freak. I thought if I pushed her away, it’d be easier for both of us. So I said some… things.”

Robin frowned. “Like what?”

“Like how I didn’t care about her the way she thought I did,” Eddie said quietly. “That she deserved better than some loser like me. It wasn’t true, but… I said it anyway.”

“Dude,” Steve muttered, shaking his head.

Eddie shrugged helplessly. “I thought I was doing the right thing, okay? But I messed everything up. She hasn’t spoken to me since, and I don’t blame her.”

Robin and Steve shared a look that could only be described as scheming.

“You know,” Robin said slowly, “this feels like the kind of thing we could fix.”

“Definitely,” Steve agreed. “I mean, it’s basically a rom-com setup. Guy screws up, realizes he’s an idiot, wins girl back with grand gesture.”

Eddie groaned. “No, no, no. Absolutely not. I don’t need you two meddling in my love life.”

“Too late,” Robin said with a grin. “Operation ‘Fix Eddie’s Screw-Up’ is officially a go.”

It didn’t take long for the rest of the gang to get involved.

When Dustin heard the story, he was immediately on board. “Eddie, you idiot,” he said, smacking him on the shoulder. “You’ve been pining over her for a year and didn’t tell me? I could’ve fixed this ages ago!”

“I don’t need fixing,” Eddie muttered.

“Clearly, you do,” Max said, rolling her eyes. “You’re hopeless.”

Even Lucas, Mike, and Will had ideas, though most of them were wildly impractical. (“Write her a song,” Mike suggested. “Girls love that stuff.” “She’ll just think it’s cheesy,” Lucas argued.)

Through it all, Eddie tried to protest, but deep down, a part of him hoped they could pull it off.

The plan came together piece by piece, each member of the group contributing ideas that were somehow both chaotic and oddly brilliant.

“What about a mixtape?” Dustin suggested as he sprawled across Steve’s couch.

“A mixtape screams ‘80s romance,” Robin said, nodding. “But it needs to be personal. Like, songs that mean something to you and her.”

Eddie groaned, running a hand through his hair. “You guys don’t get it. She doesn’t even want to look at me, let alone listen to some cheesy mixtape.”

“Then don’t make it just about the tape,” Max said from her spot on the floor. “Make it part of something bigger.”

“And where’s this ‘bigger’ happening?” Steve asked, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.

The group fell silent, all eyes turning to Eddie. He frowned, tapping his fingers against his knee. Then it hit him—an idea so crazy it might actually work.

“The Hawkins Carnival,” he said.

“What about it?” Dustin asked.

“They’re setting it up this weekend, right? She used to love going to that thing. We’d sneak off after school and blow all our money on funnel cakes and rides.” His voice softened as the memories flooded back. “Maybe… maybe I could meet her there.”

“Okay, but what’s the actual plan?” Robin pressed. “You can’t just show up and expect her to swoon over you.”

“Yeah,” Steve added. “You need a moment. Something big. Something unforgettable.”

Eddie thought for a moment, then smirked. “I’ve got just the thing.”

The days leading up to the carnival were a whirlwind of preparation. Dustin helped Eddie pick out songs for the mixtape, while Robin and Steve coached him on what to say.

“Apologize first,” Steve advised. “Don’t try to justify what you did—just own up to it.”

“And be sincere,” Robin added. “No sarcasm, no jokes. This isn’t the time for your usual deflection.”

Eddie rolled his eyes but took their advice to heart.

Meanwhile, the kids worked on the logistics of his grand gesture. Lucas and Max snuck into the carnival grounds to scope out the perfect location, while Will and Mike brainstormed backup plans in case things went south.

By the time Saturday rolled around, Eddie was a bundle of nerves. The mixtape was finished, his speech was rehearsed, and the stage was set. All that was left was for you to show up.

The Hawkins Carnival was alive with lights and laughter, the scent of fried food wafting through the air. Eddie stood near the Ferris wheel, his heart pounding as he scanned the crowd.

“You’ve got this,” Dustin said, clapping him on the shoulder. “Just stick to the plan.”

Eddie nodded, though his palms were sweating.

Then he saw you.

You were standing by the carousel, looking effortlessly beautiful in the glow of the carnival lights. The sight of you took his breath away, and for a moment, he almost lost his nerve. But then he remembered why he was here—why he’d spent the past year kicking himself for letting you go.

He squared his shoulders and approached you, his heart racing.

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice barely audible over the noise of the carnival.

You turned, your eyes widening in surprise. “Eddie?”

“Can we talk?” he asked, his voice pleading.

You hesitated, your expression guarded. But after a moment, you nodded. “Fine.”

Eddie led you to a quieter spot near the edge of the carnival, away from the crowds. He fumbled in his pocket and pulled out the mixtape, holding it out to you.

“What’s this?” you asked, eyeing it warily.

“It’s… an apology,” he said. “And a thank-you. And a promise to do better if you’ll let me.”

You stared at him, your fingers brushing the edge of the tape but not taking it. “Why now, Eddie? Why after all this time?”

“Because I’ve been an idiot,” he admitted. “I thought I was doing you a favor by pushing you away. I told myself you deserved better, but the truth is, I was scared. Scared of how much I cared about you. Scared of screwing it up.”

He took a deep breath, his hands trembling. “But I did screw it up. And I hate myself for that. I just… I needed you to know that I’m sorry. And that I never stopped…”

“Never stopped what?” you prompted, your voice soft.

“Never stopped loving you,” he said, the words tumbling out before he could stop them.

For a moment, there was only silence. Then you spoke, your voice barely above a whisper.

“You really hurt me, Eddie.”

“I know,” he said, his voice breaking. “And I’ll spend the rest of my life making it up to you if you’ll let me.”

You stared at him for what felt like an eternity, and Eddie braced himself for the worst. But then, slowly, you reached for the tape, your fingers curling around it.

“I’ll listen to it,” you said softly.

Eddie’s heart soared. “That’s all I’m asking.”

But the night wasn’t over yet.

As you turned to leave, the Ferris wheel lit up behind you, the carnival music swelling in the background. Eddie hesitated, then called out.

“Wait!”

You turned back, your brow furrowed.

“Will you ride the Ferris wheel with me?” he asked, his voice trembling. “One last time?”

Your lips curved into a small smile, and for the first time in a year, Eddie felt hope.

“Okay,” you said.

As the two of you climbed into the Ferris wheel carriage, the world below seemed to fade away. The lights, the noise, the crowds—it all disappeared, leaving just the two of you suspended in the night sky.

And as the Ferris wheel reached its peak, Eddie turned to you, his eyes searching yours.

“I meant what I said,” he whispered. “I love you. I never stopped.”

This time, you didn’t hesitate. You leaned in, closing the distance between you, and kissed him.

The world tilted, the stars spinning above, but Eddie didn’t care. For the first time in a year, everything felt right.

The Ferris wheel creaked softly as it came to a stop, grounding you and Eddie back in the bustle of the carnival. But neither of you moved to get out of the carriage right away. Instead, you stayed seated, your hands still intertwined, your heads leaning close together.

“You know,” you said, breaking the silence, “if you mess this up again, I’m never speaking to you.”

Eddie let out a breathless laugh, his thumb brushing against the back of your hand. “Fair enough. But I won’t. You’ve got my word.”

You tilted your head, studying him for a moment. His dark eyes, once filled with nervous energy, now held something softer. Something earnest. You gave his hand a small squeeze.

“I’ll hold you to that, Munson.”

The Ferris wheel operator coughed awkwardly from below, snapping you both out of the moment. “Uh, you getting out or planning to rent the thing for the night?”

Eddie grinned and hopped out, offering you his hand to help you down. The two of you wandered back into the glowing chaos of the carnival, your shoulders brushing with every step.

The next morning, the story of your reunion had spread faster than Eddie anticipated.

When he walked into Family Video for his shift, Steve was already smirking behind the counter, Robin perched on top of it with a knowing grin. Dustin, Mike, and Lucas had apparently stopped by, too, judging by the excited chatter echoing through the store.

“Look who’s finally not single!” Robin announced loudly as Eddie stepped inside.

Steve threw an arm around Eddie’s shoulders, ruffling his hair. “How does it feel, Romeo?”

“Like I should’ve kept my mouth shut about all this,” Eddie muttered, though he couldn’t keep the grin off his face.

“C’mon, man, don’t be shy,” Dustin said, grinning ear to ear. “We did help, after all. You should be thanking us.”

“Oh, thank you, wise sages of Hawkins,” Eddie said, bowing dramatically. “I couldn’t have done it without your meddling.”

Robin snorted. “Damn right.”

Later that week, you stopped by Family Video, much to the delight of the gang.

“Look who it is!” Robin sang as you walked in, nudging Eddie.

You shot her a mock glare before turning your attention to Eddie, who had abandoned all pretense of professionalism to lean against the counter with a wide grin.

“Hi,” you said, a little shyly.

“Hi,” he replied, his tone soft and warm.

Robin and Steve exchanged a glance, then bolted for the back room, dragging Dustin and the others with them.

“Hey, we weren’t done!” Dustin protested, but Robin slammed the door shut behind them, leaving you and Eddie alone.

Eddie leaned closer. “They mean well, but they’re the absolute worst, I swear.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “They’re not so bad. I think I owe them, actually.”

“For what?”

“For convincing me to give you another chance.”

Eddie’s smile faltered slightly. “Do I… deserve another chance?”

You reached across the counter, taking his hand. “You’re earning it. And so far, you’re doing a pretty good job.”

The weight that had been pressing on Eddie’s chest for a year seemed to lift entirely. He grinned, his fingers curling around yours.

“Well, then,” he said, his voice playful but sincere. “I guess I’d better keep it up, huh?”

You smirked. “You’d better.”

As you left the store, mixtape in hand, Eddie watched you go with a goofy grin on his face. Steve emerged from the back room just in time to catch him staring.

“Still gazing after her like a lovesick puppy?” Steve teased.

“Absolutely,” Eddie said without shame.

Robin grinned as she joined them. “Well, looks like Operation ‘Fix Eddie’s Screw-Up’ was a success.”

“Don’t ever call it that again,” Eddie groaned, though his smile didn’t waver.

And as the group broke into laughter, Eddie realized something: he wasn’t just grateful to have you back in his life. He was grateful for all of it—the chaos, the meddling, the friends who refused to let him give up on love.

Because this? This was a second chance he wasn’t going to waste.

The End.

[scapegods]

Yeehaw Byler 🪑

my piece for @bylerbigbang w/ @willelworld

[radiobyers]

cut to 67 days later & i’m still hung up on this 😔

[redroses07]

The Rock Show // Finn Wolfhard

Finn Wolfhard x Fem!Reader

WC: 2k

Based on/lyrics from 'The Rock Show' By Blink-182

Warnings: Swearing, Kissing

Summary: Finn falls in love with a girl at one of his shows, but does she feel the same?

A/N: I know I said I'd post this last night but I didn't have time to make my last few edits. Anyways, It's out now! This is also based on one of my favorite songs (I'll link it below) so it was super fun to write! This is the first time I've written for Finn in a while so I hope y'all like it! -Claire ♡

You stand outside the concert venue with your friend. Her boyfriend was the drummer for some band that was playing tonight, and she was intent on you coming along.

“Maybe you’ll meet a cute guy.” She teased, an obnoxious smirk on her face.

“Yeah, right.” you rolled your eyes, elbowing her playfully.

It was a small indoor venue, yet the line was still wrapped around the building. Luckily your friend’s boyfriend could get you special access through the back door.

When you saw the flight of stairs leading up to the stage door, you immediately regretted the heels you were wearing.

You followed closely behind your friend, unsure of where to go.

“Y/N hurry up!” Your friend called to you from the top of the stairs. You thought about how much you envied her comfy tennis shoes.

She held up the pass her boyfriend had given her, opening the door with ease.

The inside was stuffy, and even though the show hadn’t started, you could still hear the sound of the crowd cheering.

ultraviolet lights littered the ceiling, giving the area a purple glow. You could see the curtains pulled over the stage, blocking the crowd's view.

You were careful to watch for the cords strewn across the floor, connecting electric guitars and other equipment.

As soon as your friend saw her boyfriend sitting at his drum set she ran up to him excitedly, leaving you standing awkwardly backstage. You didn’t mind her going to see him of course, but you didn’t technically know anyone else back there and were worried about being thrown out.

“Hey, are you playing tonight? I’ve never seen you here before.” A voice pulled you away from your thoughts.

You turned your head to see a tall boy with messy dark hair. He had a guitar slung over his shoulder, and a mic attached to his shirt, so he clearly was playing tonight.

He was cute.

“Oh, um, no-“ You stumbled over your words, forgetting how to speak for a moment.

“I’m here with her.” You managed to say, pointing at your friend.

The boy smiled kindly, once he saw who you were pointing to.

“Third wheeling I see?”

You scuffed your heels against the floor nervously.

“Yeah, she made me come. I’m not really sure what I’m supposed to be doing now though. And clearly I look out of place too.” You said half jokingly.

The boy wore a look of surprise, which changed into embarrassment.

“Oh no, no that’s not why I started talking to you, I actually just thought you were pretty.” He rubbed the back of his neck nervously.

You felt your face get hot, and you found yourself unable to look him in the eye.

“Thank you.” You said, fidgeting with your fingers.

“Shit, sorry if that was too forward, what’s your name?”

You giggled, finding the courage to make eye contact again.

“Y/N. What’s yours?”

“Finn. Nice to meet you Y/N.”

You blushed, standing in awkward silence.

"What time do you go on?" You asked.

You wanted to make sure you didn't miss him playing.

"Around 11."

Maybe you would have to stay longer than you anticipated. Although, now you had something to look forward to, so maybe it wouldn't be half bad.

"I'll be there," you smiled.

Finn ran his hand through his hair, curls flopping over his face. He was quick to brush them away, keeping his eyes glued to you the whole time.

The background noise heightened, and you heard someone yell for all the players, no matter what time their sets started, to hurry up.

"Shit, I've gotta go...but you have good seats tonight right?" Finn asked.

"Yeah, right up front." Having a connection to one of the players did have its perks.

"Okay! Hold on a second!" Finn ran out of the room leaving you standing around awkwardly for a second time.

You peered through the door he ran through, eagerly waiting for him to come back. That is, if he was coming back at all. You were thoroughly confused and decided to lean back against the wall while you waited. Maybe you'd blend in better that way.

Finn came flying back around the corner, the guitar that was strapped around him swaying slightly.

"I couldn't find any paper, so is it okay if I write on your arm?" He held up a black sharpie, one of the big ones you'd use to write on posters with.

"Uh sure?" At this point you wondered if turning away was a better option, but nonetheless, you let him take your arm.

You watched as Finn frantically scribbled a few letters and numbers down on your arm. When he lets your arm go, you squinted at the messy black writing.

"That's the venue I'm playing at tomorrow. If you like what you see tonight, come tomorrow and I'll take you out afterwards."

You looked at your arm and smiled at the gesture.

"You know you could've just written it in my phone right?" You laughed.

"This is way cooler." Finn replied with a toothy grin.

"I really have to go now." He began to walk backwards towards the stage.

"Hopefully I'll be seeing you soon." Finn shot two finger guns at you before turning around and rushing off.

You were left alone once more, but you no longer felt awkward. You were too preoccupied with the butterflies in your stomach.

"Come on let's go- what's that?" Your friend asked, a suspicious smirk appeared on her face.

"I'll explain later."

You rolled your eyes playfully and grabbed her hand, dragging her towards the hoard of people.

You surfed through the crowd, finally reaching the front of the pit below the stage. You were close enough to where you could reach up and touch the stage if you wanted.

You stayed in the same spot for most of the show, and time passed rather quickly. The music was enjoyable, but you had to admit that you were waiting for Finn to show up.

Finally, when the lights filled the room, signaling that another set was beginning, you saw him. He was standing center stage, guitar in one hand, microphone in the other.

You don't know how, but he managed to spot you among-st all the people. He winked in your direction, and you could feel your face light up.

Finn's singing voice definitely kept you interested, more than you had been all night. And if you weren't already convinced to go out with him, his guitar skills sealed the deal.

At the end of the night your friend called a cab, your feet hurt far too much to walk back to your apartment. During the ride you rambled to her about the cute boy you had met backstage, and how glad you were that you let her drag you along.

She argued that this gave her best friend bragging rights for at least a week. You scoffed, but agreed.

The minute you got home, you changed your clothes and crashed in your bed; already excited for the date you would surely be going on the next day.

From the moment you woke up, you were riddled with excitement. The show wasn't until late but you started getting ready around mid-day.

When the time finally came, you could feel the nerves coursing through your veins. But they were good nerves, as good as nerves could be of course.

You arrived at the venue alone, not the safest option but you were careful. You made your way up front about fifteen minutes before the show started so you didn't have to push through as many people.

The place was more like a club considering most of the attendees were standing and there were hardly any seats, save for the few in the back.

In what seemed like no time at all, the show began.

Finn was center stage yet again, and you could see him scanning the room. You hoped he was looking for you.

He had yet to spot you before starting the first song, which was an upbeat ballad. You bobbed your head along to the beat of the music, relaxing into the environment.

Finn's voice was like honey, each word flowing off of his lips beautifully.

Once the song was over, he approached the microphone.

"Thank you all for coming out here tonight." He scanned the room once more, but this time he did see you. His face lit up, just as it had the night before.

"This next song is a cover, and it reminds me a lot of someone I just recently met." His deep brown eyes never left yours.

He began to sing, a wide smile on his face as he did.

"I fell in love with a girl at the rock show, she said "what?" and I told her that I didn't know."

You smiled at the lyrics, surprised by how much you felt for this boy you had known no more than a day.

You let yourself float closer to the stage, still keeping your eyes on Finn. He was clearly focused on his guitar, playing through the riff before starting to sing again.

Finn noticed you standing below the stage and began to navigate towards you.

"And if I ever got another chance, I'd still ask her to dance. Because she kept me waiting."

He leaned down, knees hitting the floor. He continued to sing, doing everything he could to inch closer to you while he did.

You reached up, grabbing hold of his hand and pulling him down further. Half of his body was hanging off of the stage, yet he still continued to sing.

"With the girl at the rock show..." His singing voice became breathy and strained.

The song ended and Finn pulled you up on stage with him. You could feel your heart beating with anticipation. Just like that, he pulled you into a messy kiss. The crowd erupted into applause, cheers, and even a few whistles could be heard. It was too brief for you to really enjoy the kiss, but it was perfect nonetheless.

When you broke apart, Finn leaned into you and whispered in your ear.

"Go wait backstage, I'll see you in a bit."

You smiled at him, and made the bold decision to kiss him on the cheek. The crowd cheered once more, and you took that as your queue to exit.

You sure would never forget tonight.

[miwiheroes]

my favourite fics

making this while drunk after reading a reallyyyy good byler fic in bed at midnight just chilling like a blade of grass i love it

u can probably tell my taste in fics after seeing this lol

he likes it scalding by CastleByersAfterDark - domestic, slice of life fic where will has a bath after a cold miserable day and its written so well like i feel the love theres so much loveee

Say It With Your Hands by Pseudologia - the only time you'll ever catch me reading a different first meeting fic. just so cute, byler meet at a movie theater (working) and mike's obsessed with him

a bed in your shape by passerine_in_jade - omg the angst was angsting but it was so realistic as well i loved it, the payoff ended up being so good.

A Blue Christmas by kwritessometimes - the most carefully and beautifully written fic about mikes coming out to his family. it perfectly shows the connection between him and will's family too, and ughhhhhhh i cried

but if i'm all dressed up (worth it for once) by castlebyer (loverslakes) - regency era england fic. i rarely ever read byler fics in an alternate timeline but omg this was so good and just as i imagined it.

nothing else i could do by astrobi - mike and will live together and they get a dog and then they kiss or smth idk i havent read it in a while but its astrobi so its good

if you kissed me now by astrobi - cute lil secret relationship fic and byler are just so soft and are actually realistic teens in this ugh

i hate accidents (except when we went from friends to this) by burgandyshirts - oh this is the funniest ever, there is a miscommunication where mike thinks he's dating will but will has no idea <3

said that i was fine, said it from my coffin by ruetistic - really sad about byler being gay in the 80s where mike gets hurt by people but its hurt/comfort so dw

feeling like the opposite by delusionaltogether (Whyyyyy) - such a good and memorable love confession on mike's part, also college byler teehee

i have everything i wanted by delusionaltogether (Whyyyyy) - series of one shots of byler that all follow an amazing format basically catered to my fave tags on ao3 HAHA

(give me a second to) forget i ever really meant it by delusionaltogether (Whyyyyy) - one of the better practice kissing fics i've read

autumn air, jacket 'round my shoulders is yours by gaysforbyler - will's feeling the anniversary effect and it just shows how much care mike has for will and how much understanding they have for each other

all this time (how could you not know?) by astrobi - for me, this is a long fic. yeah that tells you everything abt me lmao but this is so amazing it has a great pay off (byler at prom!!!!)

i might be hoping about this by astrobi - this right here will always be my favourite fic. it is perfection. it was one of the first byler fics i ever read and the pure domestic bliss paired with it being a SICKFIC HELL YEAH makes it just soooo perfect

and i might as welllllll um

what you really want by ME - yes this is big headed of me but im so proud of this fic i worked so hard on it and sacrificed some of my grades for it but it was worth it

okay im so eepy im going to eep and then have a hangover and i have a raging headache now ive done this on a whim bye

[williambyersmichaelwheeler]

Did you both just fight eight minutes ago and they are that close forgot to you to be kidding me this is so funny. Mike Can’t stay away. Sometimes they make me laugh so hard 😅🤣😍

[paladibun]

My piece for the @bylerbigbang ! Companion to

Love, Your (Not-So-Secret) Admirer by @talanashta

[bidoldaccount]

Window Into The Teenage Soul - Part 11

Series guide

Pairing: Mike Wheeler / Female Reader

[kidovna]

anyone else go crazy reading the latest @campbyler chapter?

bonus: