Chapter Text
Will sighs as he makes his way through the busy corridor. The halls at Truman secondary school are far too narrow for the amount of students there so he has to hold his breath, his hands tucked firmly below his arms to act as a barrier against the swarm of teenagers. Despite this, he can't help but grin, every step taking him closer to the library.
To his boyfriend.
Turning the corner he pushes open the door and steps into the room. As it closes behind him a sudden calm rushes over him. He hates the corridors.
A soft buzz in his pocket catches his attention and so he pulls his phone out.
[New message from Carlton]
Carlton
Hey
Can we meet up at break instead?
Will sighs glancing down at the message as a wave of disappointment washes over him.
Will
Ok <3
Readjusting his backpack he shoves his phone into his blazer pocket and makes his way over to his form room.
“Will, it’s good to see you! You ready for a new term?” Mr Clarke says cheerily.
Will forces a smile as he nods, his fingers instinctively curling around his sleeve.
“Well new term, new seating plan. I've put you over there, next to Mike Wheeler. He's in year 10 and he’s on the rugby team. I'm sure you'll get along.” Mr Clarke points towards a table and Will’s eyes follow his hand as he settles on the back of a classroom.
A dark haired boy with freckles scribbles in a notebook, unaware of Will’s gaze. His blazer hangs loosely over the back of his chair and his desk is scattered with different books and pens.
Will’s heart stops.
“Well go on, I'm starting the register soon,” Mr Clarke smiles at him as he turns back to his computer tapping away at the keys.
Taking a deep breath Will attempts to collect himself before walking over. As he reaches the table the boy lifts his gaze up from the page, a warm grin on his face. Up close Will can notice the small dimples forming in his cheeks, as his lips curl.
Will lets out a sound. He was going for a welcoming laugh but it just comes out strained, almost a choke.
The boy's eyebrows furrow, his grin fading in concern, as he sets the pen down on his desk.
Before Will can embarrass himself even more he blurts out,
"Hi”
Mike chuckles softly, his dimples returning immediately, as he shuffles a pile of books to make room for Will.
“Hi”
Will stares for a moment, seemingly lost in the boy's eyes, before snapping out of it suddenly pushing his bag off his back and placing it under the desk and sitting in his chair.
Mr Clarke begins to call names out from the front as Will pulls out his journal, checking his timetable. Sensing the boy’s presence next to him he glances over to find Mike watching him carefully.
Their eyes meet and Will freezes for a moment, his heartbeat heavy in his chest. Letting out another strangled sound he darts his eyes back to his timetable, in the hopes of calming himself down.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
Entering the music room, Will grins as his eyes meet Carlton's.
“Did you have a nice Christmas?” Will asks as he crosses the room.
For a moment Carlton just stares at him. Then his hands settle on Will's waist, pulling him forward.
“Yeah,” he mutters.
Will waits for him to continue. To ask about his Christmas. To ask about the painting he'd spent three weeks working on. To ask anything.
Instead Carlton's hand slides up to his jaw.
“Missed you.”
The words make warmth bloom in Will's chest.
“Really?” he asks softly.
Carlton hums in response before kissing him. Will stumbles slightly as he's pulled closer, his backpack digging awkwardly into his shoulder but Carlton doesn't seem to notice. One hand remains firm against his waist while the other cups his cheek.
For a second Will melts into it. This is what he'd wanted all holiday. To see him. To talk to him. To just be together. Carlton deepens the kiss and Will's thoughts scatter. His fingers curl against the front of Carlton's blazer. When they finally break apart Will lets out a nervous laugh.
“I've got loads to tell you actually. Jonathan got me these new-”
The bell rings and Carlton immediately steps back, the warmth vanishing as quickly as it came.
“See you later, yeah?” His hand comes up to wipe his mouth.
Will blinks. “Oh. Yeah. I just wanted to tell you about-”
“Can't be late.” Carlton grabs his bag, swinging the door open, then slams it shut behind him.
Will stands there alone. His sentence unfinished. His heart still racing. The room suddenly feels far bigger than it did a moment ago. The second bell rings. With a sigh, he adjusts the strap of his backpack and heads for class.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
A day passes and Will’s combing his fingers through his hair as walks towards the door. As he reaches the entrance to his form room he collides with something, a shoulder pressing into him. Turning his head his eyes land on Mike, a sheepish grin as he chuckles,
“Hi”.
Will averts his gaze to the ground a soft blush casting over his cheeks,
“Hi.”
The next day Will finds himself walking towards his art class when he notices the familiar dark curls in the crowd of teenagers.
“Hi” Mike smiles, his fingers coming up to give a small wave.
Will returns the smile, tucking a strand of hair behind his ear,
“Hi”
A few days later Will is walking to maths, his head slightly fuzzy from the lack of sleep. He had been up late last night sketching, his mind having been taken over by a certain boy.
“Hi”
Will looks up from the ground, his eyes meeting Mike’s as their shoulders brush slightly.
“Hi.”
Mike grins, the familiar dimples forming, something Will wishes he could capture in his mind for later, before returning his gaze back to the book in his hands.
Will lets out a snort and Mike’s eyebrows raise in return.
“What?”
“Are you doing your maths homework on the way to the lesson?”
Mike chuckles, bringing the pen up to tap against his cheek before grinning, “Yeah,” leaning in closer he puts on a terrible Australian accent, an attempt to mimic Mr Wallis, “Due tomorrow” switching back to his normal voice he continues “Do tomorrow” he smirks tapping the book with his pen like he's just said the funniest thing ever.
Will can't help but giggle, his nose scrunching slightly, “I don't think that's what he meant”
Mike’s smirk only widens, “You sure? I think it's up to interpretation.”
Will huffs a laugh before looking down at the page, wincing slightly as his eyes trace over the incorrect answers, “Do you need some help? I could do it for you if you want.”
Mike just leans in closer, his elbow bumping his arm, “Oh yeah? Are you a secret math genius or something?”
Will shrugs, “Maybe”
Mike grins, his eyes scrunching, “Thank you for the offer, but it’s ok. I’ll get it done.”
“No really I could tell you the answers” Will reaches out to point at the book when Mike’s fingers slip, the pen gliding against Will’s hand.
“Shit…sorry” Mike’s eyes widen as he holds Will’s hand in his, glancing down at the mark.
Will’s cheeks flush slightly as Mike’s grip on his hand softens, pulling his hand up closer to inspect the pen. His frown fades, immediately being replaced with a grin as he brings his pen closer to Will’s skin, making two dots.
“There. Perfect” Mike’s grin only widens as he turns Will’s hand around to face him, a small smiley face now on his skin, his fingers still soft against his wrist.
Will smiles before averting his gaze, his face heating up at how close they are.
“Thanks” he mumbles,
“No problem” Mike’s lips curl as he brings the pen back up to his mouth, chewing on the lid.
Will pulls his eyes off of Mike gazing up to spot a familiar face.
“Hi” Will grins as Carlton approaches them in the corridor, his face curling into a look of disgust.
“Uh, I don't know you, why are you talking to me?”
Will’s heart sinks. His cheeks turn a deep crimson as embarrassment washes over him.
“Oh…uh…sorry…I…” Will splutters out, the footsteps around him echoing throughout the hall.
Carlton just rolls his eyes, his gaze settling on Mike, “Hi mate.”
“Uh…Hi.” Mike forces a smile, his eyes flicking back to Will, who’s stare is firmly planted on the ground as his fingers scratch at his wrist.
“See you later, yeah? I heard Ivy’s sitting with us at lunch today.” Carlton nudges Mike’s arm as he wiggles his eyebrows.
“Oh…uh yeah ok…see you later man.” Mike says as Carlton smirks before walking off.
Mike turns to Will immediately, “You ok?”
Will’s cheeks deepen a flushed red, “Oh…uh yeah…you know Carlton?”
“Yeah he’s in my year and he sits with me at lunch sometimes.”
“Oh…ok…cool”
Will drops his gaze again as they continue down the hallway, eventually reaching the maths classroom. Mike turns to Will, giving him a smile before entering the room. Will hovers for a moment, watching through the open door as Mike heads towards the back of the classroom, before the bell rings, jolting Will from his gaze.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
Will sits on the bench, picking at his sandwich as he stares across the playground, his eyes landing on a group of year 10s. On Mike. His curls bounce softly as he runs full speed towards a shorter boy on the other side of the playground as another boy hunches over laughing. As Mike reaches the shorter boy he tackles him in what looks like a very awkward hug. Will lets a soft chuckle slip his lips as the two boys twirl around, seemingly trying to overpower each other, the other boy now joining them in the chaos.
“It’s obvious really.”
“Is it?”
“I mean look at him.”
“I don’t know, maybe he’s zoned out again.”
“Yeah zoned out staring at a boy. Come on Adam it’s Will we’re talking about.”
Will snaps his head to look at the two as they look at each other before breaking out in laughter.
“What?”
Max places a hand on his shoulder, “You better not be falling in love.”
“Huh?” Will pulls a face, causing Adam to snort.
“Your crush on Mike. You know he's straight, right?” Her eyebrows crease as Will rolls his eyes.
“You don’t know that.”
“Will.” She quirks an eyebrow and Will huffs out a breath.
“We’re just friends, okay?” Will says turning back to his lunch lowering his voice “I’m not in love”
“Mmhm sure” Max teases her gaze fixed on the boy.
As he glances back at Mike, Will’s mind flicks back to the day Mike turned up to form time with pen splattered all over him.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
“Uh Will…do you have a spare pen” Mike smiled sheepishly as he stood awkwardly. His arms hovered at his sides in an attempt to not spread the ink on the rest of his clothes.
Will glanced up and couldn’t help but snort as the boy stood helplessly, the ink having made its way onto his face.
“Sorry! I…yeah I have a spare.” Will rummaged in his bag to pull out a pen, and placed it on Mike’s desk.
Mike grinned, quirking an eyebrow, “Do you happen to have a spare shirt as well?”
Will felt his cheeks flush, and he suddenly wished he had another shirt just to see Mike in his clothes.
“No I don’t…lost property might though.”
Mike sighed at the thought, “Oh yeah, I didn't think of that.”
Will smiled and turned his gaze back down to his own desk expecting Mike to leave for the lost property. A moment passed and Mike cleared his throat, which drew Will’s attention,
“Could you come with me please…I need help with the doors.”
Will gulped, slightly flattered that Mike had asked him for help, with a nod he followed him to the lost property basket.
Ten minutes passed, twenty if you were to count the ten minutes spent washing the ink off in the bathroom sink. Mike had tried on at least five shirts, two of which he was sure were women's, and yet none of them seemed to fit him. He turned to face Will who was still rummaging in the basket with passion,
“What about this one?” Mike twirled around, his hands on his hips as if he were at London fashion week showcasing a new designer piece.
Will nearly choked. The shirt wasn’t ridiculously small like the others. Objectively you could argue it was the closest fit so far. But that was the problem. It clung to Mike’s skin, defining his toned build, the fabric carving out the outline of his waist. It hugged his arms in a way that made Will’s chest flutter.
“That bad huh?” Mike pursed his lips in the same way he had when he felt awkward.
“NO!...no I…uh…think that's the best one so far.” Will blurted out, scratching the back of his neck as he shuffled slightly on the spot.
Mike tilted his head slightly, his full attention now on Will, “Yeah?”
Will just nodded, not trusting his brain to produce a viable sentence.
“Ok…Well I trust your fashion advice.” Mike grinned bending over to pick up his old shirt.
“Why, because I’m gay?” Will blurted out as his face grew even redder. It was like his brain had somehow forgotten he wasn’t with Max and Adam.
“NO! No because…I don’t…I don't know…that came out wrong…well not came out,” Mike rambled as his arms flailed about awkwardly, “…I mean…you know that doesn't bother me right? Because I know the rugby guys don't have a good reputation but I promise…”
Will reached his hand out holding Mike’s arm where he was flailing it around, “Mike it’s ok, really.”
Mike’s rambling stopped and he turned to face Will, “Sorry I…you just look like you have nice style. That’s what I was trying to say.” He smiled sheepishly as his gaze dropped to where Will’s hand was firm around his arm.
Will forced out a laugh as he drew his hand away from Mike’s arm redirecting it to fiddle with a button on his blazer, “Oh...uh…thank you,”
Mike stared for a moment, his gaze fixed on Will, “Of course…we should probably head back.”
Will nodded, following Mike they made their way back to their form.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
Adam flicks his eyes between the two before clearing his throat, bringing Will out of his thoughts, “Speaking of love, where’s El?”
Max groans, slumping forwards onto the table, “They’ve abandoned me.”
Will chuckles, “You’re so dramatic,” he nudges her with his shoulder, causing her to roll her eyes, “They’ve got band practice.”
Adam snorts, before going back to eating his sandwich.
Taking a sip of her water Max sighs, “You know I just worry about you. Even if Mike is nice you don’t know the rest of the rugby boys.”
“I know,” Will mumbles, looking up at her.
“They’re exactly the kind of boys who bullied you last year.”
“I know.”
“You’re stronger now, I get that but I just don't want you to get hurt.” Max reaches her hand out to rest on his, squeezing him softly.
Will sighs, “I know Max… I just…Mike’s kind to me and I think it would be nice to be friends with him.”
“Ok Will, you know I just care about you.”
“I know. I promise if he ever hurts me I’ll tell you and you can throw a panini at him or something.”
Max tuts rolling her eyes, “Oh Will, you underestimate me, think better.”
“A baguette?” Adam asks.
“No no, my secret weapon…” Max digs through her bag, pulling out a compass.
Will gasps, “Max, you can’t attack him with that.”
Max just grins even wider as she pulls out an unopened Radnor Fizz bottle.
“You’re insane.” Will chuckles nudging her knee under the table.
“I take these matters very seriously, Will.” She nudges him back causing Adam to laugh.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
As Miss Buckley enters the art room she notices a familiar head of hair slumped forward, “You alright Byers?”
Will just groans slumping forward even more.
“Ok I guess not.” She walks closer pulling out a chair nearby and sitting restlessly.
“I have a boyfriend.” Will mumbles.
“You’re going to have to talk a bit louder, Will.”
Will groans again lifting his head up from his lap, “I have a boyfriend”
“Ok. I’m assuming that’s a bad thing?”
“He’s just…” Will sighs, his mind flicking back to the kiss they shared earlier in the day. The way Carlton had acted interested and asked him about his art which made him blush. The way he had kissed him and then suddenly left without a word.
“He just seems distracted.” He glances up at Miss Buckley as she nods her head, “He was asking me about my art and he kissed me and I thought finally we were going to have a nice moment and then before I could even ask him about his day he’d left. I don't know, maybe we should break up.”
“Do you want to break up?”
Will things for a moment before groaning again, “I don't know.”
“You don't have to make any decisions right now ok? But I think you should do what makes you feel most happy. Yeah?” She smiles warmly at him and this makes his lips curl softly as he nods.
“Yeah, thank you.”
“Of course, no worries. I’m always here for you, and the art room is too.” She places a reassuring hand on his shoulder before walking over to her desk, rummaging through her back.
“So what have we got for lunch today?”
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
Readjusting his bag over his shoulder, Will makes his way out of the school, his eyes glazing over the crowd of teenagers looking for no one in particular. As he reaches the gate he spots Carlton with some of his mates, talking to a girl he’s never seen before. Anxiety bubbles in his stomach as approaches wearily. Suddenly Carlton reaches out, pulling the girl into a kiss.
Will’s stomach sinks.
His legs stop.
His mind races.
Embarrassment and shame overcomes him as he ducks behind a group of year 11s, using them as a shield to hide behind as he nears the gate. Once he exits the school he speeds up, not turning back, he walks to the bus stop his mind completely elsewhere.
When he arrives home he slumps down in bed, pulling out his phone and opening his messages.
Why did you lie?
No, that's too personal.
I saw you kissing that girl.
No, that’s embarrassing.
I dump your ass.
No, that's too harsh.
Will
I don't want to meet up with you anymore.
His thumb hovers over the send button for a moment, hesitating. But then the image of Carlton kissing the girl takes over his mind and before he can think Carlton’s already seen it.
Carlton
C’mon Will we’re not gonna get caught.
Will just stares frozen at the screen as Carlton continues typing.
Carlton
Seriously?
You’re ignoring me now?
Fine.
I don’t need you anyway.
Will chokes back a sob as he slams his phone down into his bed, before reaching for his sketchbook where it rests on his bedside table. Letting the rage and sadness take over he glides the pencil over the page, forming swirls and jagged corners until his vision goes blurry.
It's the next morning and Will sits at the kitchen table pouring milk over his cereal as he slouches in his chair.
“You ok?” Jonathan appears from the hallway, flicking the kettle on before leaning back against the counter, his gaze fixed on Will.
“I broke up with my boyfriend.” Will mumbles as he drags the spoon around his bowl.
“Was he a knob?”
Will looks up, his gaze meeting Jonathan’s, “Yes.”
Jonathan grins, “Well done then.”
Will huffs, though a soft chuckle doesn't go unnoticed by Jonathan as he turns to pour himself a cup.
On the bus Will stares out the window as Boys Don’t cry plays quietly in his headphones.
“So, hypothetically…” Jonathan leans in, nudging him with his elbow, “dream boy?”
“I don't know… just someone kind.” Will shrugs his gaze fixed on the passing houses.
“Come on, you've gotta have a type.”
“I don't think I can afford to be more selective.”
“Ok but hypothetically…”
“I guess someone who I can be myself around. Someone who's funny and kind.”
Jonathan hums as Will continues, “I’d even settle for someone tall.”
“Cute” Jonathan whispers and Will groans rolling his eyes.
“No really Will, you deserve to be happy ok?” Jonathan smiles, his eyes curling in a way that reminds Will of his mother, a comforting smile. Will sighs before returning the smile, nodding his head.
“Good.” Jonathan nudges him softly before Will turns his gaze back to the window.
As the bus slows, Will finds his eyes drawn to a bench outside of the school. He notices Mike sitting on the table as two other boys, the same boys from the day Mike had tackled them in the playground, sit on the bench next to him. A few other boys Will didn't recognise sit on the other bench as they all chat. Will can’t help but grin as he gathers his things getting up from his seat.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
Mike chuckles loudly as he grabs Dustin’s shoulders attempting to tackle him.
“Jesus Wheeler, what did you eat today?” Lucas asks, dodging the boy's arms.
“Oh you know pure spite,” Mike smirks as he tackles Dustin successfully to the floor.
“You had sprite for breakfast?” Chance raises an eyebrow, causing Lucas to snort.
“Spite not sprite man. You seriously need to get your ears tested.” Lucas teases.
Chance mumbles something, rolling his eyes as he walks off. Lucas stares for a moment and then shrugs before huddling over Dustin.
“Guys this is so not fair.” Dustin whines as he struggles.
“Uh yeah it is.” Mike retorts, sticking his tongue out.
“You’re ganging up on me. It's transphobic.”
Lucas gasps dramatically, “Dustin we’re actually being allies. We would never tackle a girl.”
Dustin rolls his eyes, huffing a laugh at the boy's words, “Ok ok I give up now.” Mike grins before letting him go and Dustin flops down, his limbs relaxing against the grass as he catches his breath. Lucas rolls over joining him as Mike sits up facing the track. He can't help but let a small grin curl at his lips as he spots Will running in the distance. He stares in awe as Will overtakes another runner now in the lead.
“C’mon Will” one of the coaches shouts as he clears the finish line. As Will turns to high five someone an idea pops into Mike’s mind.
“Boys get over here! This is rugby practice not 4pm by the poolside.” Coach Harrington shouts as the boys groan, pulling themselves up off the ground and jogging over to the rest of the group.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
Flicking through the pages in his locker Will hums, satisfied he’s got everything for next period, before reaching out to close the door.
“Hi” Mike appears in front of him and Will jumps slightly, his books dropping to the floor.
“Shit, sorry Will.” Mike bends down immediately helping to pick up the books.
“Thanks.” Will grins as Mike hands him the last book.
“No problem.” Mike beams as Will gazes at him expectantly. “Oh yeah I wanted to ask you something.”
“Oh ok sure.” Will tilts his head slightly.
୭˚⋆✴︎˚｡⋆
“I wanted to say that I’m gay too and I think you’re really cute and I dream that one day you’ll draw me in your sketchbook. I’ve actually had a crush on you for a while now. Will you go out with me?”
୭˚⋆✴︎˚｡⋆
Will grins his eyes glazed over as if in a trance.
Suddenly he feels a hand on his shoulder causing him to blink.
“Sorry what?”
“Oh I was saying I saw you running earlier and you're fast. Like proper fast! I mean I’ve never seen anyone run so fast before!” Will stares at him expectantly, “Sorry I’m rambling, what I meant to ask you was do you want to join the rugby team?”
Will almost chokes.
“Me? Are you sure?” He points at himself in disbelief.
Mike nods quickly.
"Aren't I too small and weak to play rugby?”
Mike’s eyebrows knit together, “What? No! You’re quite fit actually.” Will raises an eyebrow, his cheeks flushing slightly, “Wait not like that...I mean not that you’re not uh…what I meant to say was you’re…uh toned. You know, like from the running.”
Will lets out a laugh though it comes out more of a wince as Mike runs his hand through his curls.
“So?” Mike tilts his head, awaiting an answer.
“Uh…yeah sure.”
Mike grins, his dimples deepening as his eyes curl “Cool.”
Will returns the grin, his fingers curling around his sleeve, “You’ve gotta teach me though.”
“Oh of course, only the finest teaching from Coach Wheeler.” Mike dramatically bows causing Will to chuckle.
“Did you just refer to yourself in the third person?”
“Duh.” Mike's grin only widens as Will rolls his eyes playfully.
“You’re ridiculous.”
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
It's lunchtime and Will is sitting at their usual table, picking at some carrots as Max and Adam bicker.
“Mike asked me to join the rugby team.” Will blurts out.
Max’s smile fades as she faces Will.
“Max.” Will groans.
“And you’re sure this is something you want to do?” Max asks, her nose scrunched tightly. El notices this and places a hand firmly on her knee in an attempt to ground her.
“Yes.” Will mumbles, taking a sip of water.
Max stares for a moment seemingly lost in thought before exhaling, “Ok.”
Will raises an eyebrow, “Ok?”
“Yeah if it's gonna make you happy then you should do it.”
Will grins before pulling at the collar of his shirt, “I’m gonna melt from all this sappiness.”
“Shut up Byers.” Mike grins softly, kicking him under the table.
“My offer still stands though.”
“What offer?” El mumbles turning to face Max.
“I know.” Will chuckles.
“What offer?” El nudges the girl.
“Oh nothing.”
“Max. Is it something violent? Because you know we've talked about this.”
Will snorts and Max shoots him a glare before sighing, “El I wasn't going to do anything that bad.”
El quirks an eyebrow as Adam chuckles, “Yeah sure you weren't”
“Max.” El puts on their serious face as Max groans.
“It was only going to be a little shower. Some might even call it refreshing.”
Will almost chokes on his water and Adam catches his eye attempting to keep his sandwich in his mouth.
“Max. We’ve spoken about this. No more Radnor Fizz for you.” El sighs, grabbing the bottle from where it stood on the table before opening it and taking a sip.
“You weren’t wrong though, it is refreshing," they lean in teasing her.
Max just huffs crossing her arms as if to make a point.
El stares for a moment before sighing, “Ok fine you can have a sip.”
Max perks up, grabbing the bottle and taking a sip before relaxing into the bench.
“Refreshing?” Will asks as Max hums in agreement.
𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣.𖥧.𖡼.⚘𖤣
As Will approaches the changing rooms his fingers curl against his tie. Standing outside the door he can't help but overhear his name, leaning in closer.
“Isn’t he like gay or something?”
“Gay people can play sports Chance,” a familiar voice says, muffled through the door.
“Yeah but like isn't he proper gay. Like rugby isn't just any sport, it's a proper man’s sport,” an unfamiliar voice replies.
“Honestly just shut up man. No one wants to hear you’re winging,” another voice says.
Taking in a deep breath Will steadies himself and pushes open the door.
Immediately his eyes land on Mike’s as his lips curl.
“Hi.”
“Hi.”
After they all get changed Coach takes them out to the field to warm up.
“Will, you'll be with Mike, he's going to help you work on your tackling.” Coach Harrington says with a warm smile. Will nods as he follows Mike over to a clearer side of the pitch.
“Ok so all you need to do is just charge at me.” Mike says, bending his knees slightly.
“What?”
“Just run full speed at me.” Mike grins, his hands out ready.
“Won't that hurt?” Will asks warily.
“Yeah that's kinda the point.”
Will takes in a shaky breath, shaking his arms at his sides in an attempt to calm himself down. Staring straight ahead, straight at Mike, he takes off, charging towards the boy. He closes his eyes as he collides with a strong mass, clinging onto his frame as they both fall to the ground.
Mike wheezes out a breath and Will stares down at him in concern.
Mike just grins, “Perfect.”
Will can’t help but laugh.
Heaving himself up Mike puts his hands on his hips, “Right now lets try again but with me moving this time.”
Will groans laying back on the grass as Mike chuckles at him, “Come on.”
Mike reaches a hand out to him, and Will hesitates for a moment, staring at the boy’s outstretched hand before wrapping his fingers around it. Mike grins as he pulls him up to stand, their hands still firmly clasped together. A moment passes and neither of them move, their eyes locked when a whistle sounds, piercing throughout the field. Mike lets go of Will’s hand immediately jolting back to look over at the other boys setting up to start again.
“So…running tackle. Give it a go.” Mike smiles as he jogs away from Will.
As days pass Mike dedicates all his practice time to helping Will. They go through tackles, passing the ball, lifts, kicks, everything he needs to know. Will begins to grow confidence and Coach encourages him to join in a practice game, which after a lot of convincing from Mike Will agrees.
“Catch it Will!" Chance shouts as the ball slips through his hands landing in the mud at his feet. Will’s face flushes as he looks down at the ball as Chance groans obnoxiously.
“Good try Will! You're getting there!” Coach Harrington calls from the side of the field. Will gives him a strained smile in return.
Mike walks over picking up the ball and handing it back to Will, “Wanna pass to me?” he grins as Will lets out a small laugh nodding.
The game continues and Will successfully passes to Mike as he charges forward making it to the line and scoring. Lucas runs over jumping onto Mike in celebration as Dustin chuckles loudly.
Chance rolls his eyes, “It's not like you won. It’s not a proper game anyway.”
“Don't be a sore loser man.” Dustin shoots him a look as Chance scoffs walking off to get some water.
Will grins as he watches Mike emerge from under Lucas with mud smeared on his face as he clutches the ball with a proud smile beaming back at Will.
After practice the boys head to the changing rooms to clean up and to change back into their uniforms. As more guys leave Will smiles softly at Mike before heading out of the room.
Feeling a buzz in his blazer pocket he pulls out his phone groaning as the screen lights up.
[New message from Carlton]
Carlton
I miss you.
Can we talk please?
Meet me in the music block?
Will’s fingers hover, the thought to block him crosses his mind but it’s clear Carlton isn't going to give up. Will needs to set him straight.
Will
Fine
As he enters the building he glances around, the halls empty, his footsteps echoing through the corridor.
“Will.”
Will turns round to see Carlton tucked around the corner of the instruments. Exhaling he steps forwards ready to confront him.
“Carlton, I told you I don't want to meet with you anymore.”
“Oh yeah? Then why are you here right now?”
“Because I need you to understand that I don't want this anymore.”
“You don't want a boy kissing you? That's hard to believe." Carlton spits out, his eyebrows raised.
“Like that even matters.” Will mutters under his breath.
“What was that?”
“I don't have the energy for this.” Will sighs turning around to leave but Carlton grabs Will’s wrists keeping him firmly planted.
“No Will. Please, enlighten me.”
“Carlton let go.” Will pulls back trying to loosen his wrists.
“No, not until you tell me what you said.”
“I said like that even matters.” Will says sharply, his voice cutting through the room. “You don't care about me.”
Carlton’s grip on his wrists tighten, “That's not true Will.”
“It is. You only kiss me when you feel like it. When you feel like kissing a boy. You never once stopped to ask me what I want.”
Carlton stares at him for a second before scrunching his nose, “What do you want?”
“I want to go.” Will pleads, his voice shaky.
“No you don't.” Carlton says as he slowly backs Will against the wall.
“Carlton I-”
Suddenly Carlton's lips crash into his.
Will freezes. For a second his brain simply stops working. Then panic floods through him.
"Stop."
Carlton's hand tightens around his wrist.
"Carlton stop."
Will shoves against his chest but nothing. The wall presses cold against his back. His stomach twists.
"Stop."
Suddenly Carlton pulls off of him and he jolts his eyes open to see Carlton being shoved into the hallway.
“He said stop."
"But I-"
"Piss off.” Mike shouts, his hands shaking with rage as Carlton stumbles out of the building.
Will just stares as Mike’s body trembles, his breaths heavy between them. Mike turns to face Will, a mix of rage and hurt clear in his eyes.
“Will are you ok?”
Will lets out a breath and his hands find his pockets as if to preoccupy him. “I'm fine. Thank you Mike. Really.”
“You sure?”
Will just nods.
Mike’s face softens as he reaches out a hand to pay him on the shoulder squeezing him gently.
“I am never talking to that dickhead ever again.”
“No really you don't have to do that. I don't want you to lose a friend.” Will panicks, his lip quivering slightly.
“Oh I don't mind. He's a shitty friend anyways.”
Will offers a small smile and Mike returns it before turning around.
“C’mon let's go.”
Will nods following Mike out to the entrance.
As they reach the gate they both hesitate, stopping on the path.
Mike turns to Will with a grin, his cheeks dimpling, “I’ll see you tomorrow.”
Will beams, nodding as Mike begins to walk off “See you tomorrow.”
Walking for a moment Will stops and turns to watch as Mike walks away before continuing forward.
In the car now, Mike stares out the window as he buckles his seatbelt.
“How was your day sweetie?” his mum asks, starting the engine.
Mike doesn't answer, his brain blocking out the sound as his thoughts consume him.
He feels a nauseating feeling creep up his throat as his mind replays the event.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
On his walk back he chose to take the route that took him through the music block. He had noticed how off Will seemed as he was leaving and decided to make sure he was ok.
As he entered the hallway he could hear muffled voices speaking so curious he walked closer, nearing the corner.
“Carlton stop.”
His heart dropped. It was definitely Will.
“Stop” Will mumbles out and before Mike could even think he was storming around the corner and heading straight for Carlton. He grabbed his blazer and yanked him off of Will before shoving him into the hallway.
He stood there, fingers tight in a fist as his heart raced.
“He said stop."
Carlton stuttered, "But I-"
Staring at Carlton with disgust he spat out, “Piss off.”
Carlton rolled his eyes with a huff before he stumbled out of the building.
Mike turned to Will, his voice laced with concern as he noticed how the boy’s shoulders shook with fear.
“Are you ok?”
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
“Love, are you ok?”
The sound of his mothers voice pulls him from his thoughts as he reaches out to adjust his shirt sleeve.
He nods quickly, forcing a smile, “Yeah I’m ok, just a bit tired.”
“Ok, maybe try and get an early night.”
Mike hums as he lets his head rest against the widow as he closes his eyes.
A few minutes pass and Mike finds himself drifting off when a buzz comes from his pocket.
Will
Thank you x
He feels a slight tug as his lips curl into a smile. Letting out a sigh he closes his eyes and relaxes into his seat.