Chapter Text
Out of everything, weekly movie night had to be one of the best parts of killing Vecna. Of course everyone was still traumatized and in therapy. But despite that, movie night had become a Friday tradition. They could just put on a movie in Michael Wheeler’s basement and not have to worry about someone dying.
Joyce and Hopper would drop off Will and El while Dustin would drive Max and Lucas over. Steve and the rest of the group would usually be working or in class, so it was usually just the six of them.
Tonight’s movie was E.T. To be honest, Mike wasn’t paying attention to the movie. Even though he chose, he was preoccupied with other things. The most prevalent of which was how good Will looked in the glow of the TV. The light seemed to highlight his sharp cheekbones and gentle masculine appearance. It felt like Mike could stare forever and never need anything else. Unfortunately, he heard his father’s voice in his head “ You’re staring. What would your friends think? Your mother would be ashamed. ” His father’s voice was right. This was a miracle considering he was never right about anything. But he had to be right about this. He shouldn’t be looking at another boy like this, let alone his best friend. But, then why couldn’t he stop?
“Earth to Mike. Are you there?” Mike shook his thoughts away and saw Will, looking concerned. “Dude, you’ve been zoned out for the past 5 minutes. You love this movie. Are you okay?” Now look at what you’ve done, you upset Will. Did he notice me being a creep? He thought, filled with worry.
Mike smiled, hoping that would reassure Will and himself. “Yeah, I’m okay. I guess I’m just tired. Sorry, I know I’m ruining movie night.” Internally, he scolded himself for being a burden on Will. He was so zoned into his self deprecation he didn’t even notice his head being moved onto Will’s shoulder. The only thing that snapped him out of it was the feel of the other boy’s shoulder.
“Mike, we do this every week. We have this movie saved at all of our houses. You’re not ruining anything. The world won’t end. Movie night will still be here and we all know we’ll watch this movie ten more times. If you’re tired, then rest.” Will said, still watching the movie. Mike knew that what he was doing was wrong, but he couldn’t bring himself to sit up.
Mike suddenly became nervous. “But what if something happens and I’m not awake to help?” He couldn’t shake the feeling of anxiety. He couldn’t just not be there for them if something happened. Mike's mind was coming up with worst-case scenarios, determined to keep him from being fully happy.
Will just shook his head, slightly scoffing. “If that happens, we’ll wake you up, but there’s nothing to be worried about. We can handle one movie night without you being aware of everything. Just close your eyes at the very least. You somehow look more tired now.” He moved the blanket on the couch over the two of them.
Without realizing, Will had started running his hands through Mike’s hair. A light flush appeared on Mike’s face, luckily covered by the light of the television. He thought he should move, not wanting to come off as something he wasn’t. This was immediately countered with an all-consuming warmth and tiredness.
“Maybe I’ll just rest for a little bit.” Mike murmured, eyes closing.
He dreamt of warmth and joy and hoped this would last forever.