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Mike Wheeler has been an avid fan of not attending the parents and teachers conferences of his daughter Mila's when he knew how ignorant they were towards her and her.. differences than other kids, proclaiming everything as if it were her problem — which technically wasn't, and she couldn't control what she was having. But atleast she tried.
He never understood why they weren't even able to be patient with her the way he was too – he understands what they'd say and even experienced some of the struggles but come on, he's been there with Mila for the rest of his life especially when her mother.. left them.
She did that, and gave up on her because of how tiring it was.. losing the foundation of love that they built during the time whereas Mike was busy office working on the daily, finally moving on with another man from another country to leave them alone.
Mike had to agree on it, and tell a toned down reason for his child whenever she'd ask.. something close to a white lie: they just managed to lose the spark that they had when they were in college (she deliberately cheated on him and he always placed the blind eye until now that they were adults), and they decided to part ways to make it easier (more of her life than his own since she ditched them).
And with that gave Mike Wheeler another role in the family that he tried to fill.
He was supposed to once again skip another one of the parents and teachers conferences for the second quarter of the school year – even if it made little Mila a bit upset since she persistently told him about how amazing her preschool art teacher was – if it weren't for another spamming email from the school stating how they highly encouraged him to head over there.
Additionally, since the actual adviser was busied with their own scheduled meetings with the parents around, there would be another teacher that volunteered to speak to him about Mila – who is also a substitute adviser or co-head in terms of the little classroom she was in – and it was the said art teacher that Mila adored.
Mila was the one who read the email when she was playing with her dad's computer with the usual: Putt-Putt, Freddi Fish and Zoombinis, if it weren't for the sudden email popping out coming from her adviser claiming that Mike was required to have a little meeting atleast because of something that happened.. but she didn't care about that since she only noticed the name of the person who was going to be with her father.
Dear Mr. Wheeler,
Greetings from Hawkins Preschool! We're here to let you know that we are hoping to see you go to the parents-teachers conference tomorrow morning. Although the only available appointment to be given prior to the actual adviser being unavailable with more scheduled students will be held by the co-advisor and art school teacher: Mr. William Byers in Room 107H.
A direct statement from Mr. Byers claims: "We ask for your now required presence especially knowing how you have an alarming rate of not being able to be there at conferences, the last one being back last year with Mr. Perez. Please attend tomorrow, it would be nice to meet the amazing Mila's guardian or parent!"
Have a wonderful day.
Go tigers!!
Mike could vividly remember how she bolted from her door and immediately tugged on her father's clothes, pleading for him to meet her so-called amazing art teacher, the next Bob Ross if you squint a little, and she had these teary eyes and tried snatching the car keys from him even if the meeting was held tomorrow and not today — and that waa enough for him to actually comply to it.
And that was exactly why he was there seated outside of the classroom door, waiting for the mother that hurriedly snatched his time to actually speak with the art teacher himself and skipped the line just for it. He didn't even get to see what this Mr. Byers looked like, but he heard his voice and it was quite low, but soft spoken like he was actually as friendly as the way Mila explained he was like.
Speaking of Mila, she was currently taken care of by her Aunt Holly back at the house, who was (definitely) trying so hard to persuade her to binge watch cute cartoon Disney movies with her – the fan favourite being the sleeping beauty film she's been oogling about ever since she was younger.
His hands twitched to try and grab the mobile phone in his pocket and start asking for more updates on what they were doing (a habit he has since he felt protective for his child), and he was about to reach for it when the door opened showing the lady who has a sweet smile on her face as she waved over to the teacher inside the classroom, seemingly enough more happy than earlier.
She gave him a once over before leaving, giving him the urge to roll his eyes.
Mike stood up and started to awkwardly shuffle himself inside, and once he went in, he could see the small classroom coming to view with the faint smell of tempera paint and parchment intertwined. Well, it was clearly just as wonderland like as Mila described too.
Children's artwork lined the walls with splashed of colour proudly, some of them being Mila's which he knew all to well, his eyes softening seeing the uneven brush strokes and bold crayon outlines that definitely screamed her, he took a picture of it with his device before shoving it back inside with the clear of his throat.
"Mr. Wheeler, I'm presuming?" The voice finally called his name and he turned to meet the warm gaze of the teacher that he was anticipating to see. "It's really a pleasure to meet you, you're my last parent to meet!"
"Um.. nice to meet you too." He managed to let out. Unlike the cheery voice of the latter, he sounded too guarded. He wasn't exactly the biggest extrovert these days.
He looked like the typical art teachers he'd expect to see; full of whimsy and colour, hair tousled around and clothes this vibrant and styled – his legs were crossed and he was tapping the striped yellow pen that also seemed to be a frequent colour alone his other belongings. Yellow clip, yellow id holder, yellow sharpener, and yellow bag.
Something about him felt familiar.
Mike slowly sat down on the undersized chair across from the teacher's desk with his knees bent awkwardly, hands folded tightly on his lap. He hasn't been in these meetings before and rejected each one, and it made him feel like it was the very first one – bracing himself for the usual script: Mila is withdrawn, doesn't participate much, gets in trouble with some of the boys in the classroom.. she needs to try harder because she has potential!
But.. Will Byers didn't start that way.
Will leaned forward with his elbows resting lightly on the surface of the desk, expression open like a book – it was kind.
"So, Mr. Wheeler. I wanted to talk about Mila because.. well, she's remarkable in the class," He started with a genuine smile pressing on his lips as he done so. Wait.. What?
Mike blinked, caught off guard.
"Remarkable?" He almost laughed, but stopped himself. This was an interesting start, and he didn't want to sound like he was disbelieving of his daughter's talents especially at the confusion on Mr. Byers face, so he continued. "I know she is but.. that's not usually the word I hear."
It never truly was, whether it was the first time he started the little conferences or the emails that were sent in replacement of those excuses he would tell them of not being able to go.
Will smiled shyly, "She sees things differently and I applaud that. When she paints, it's like she's telling me a story only she knows." He pointed over to the art that he once pictured, making him look closer. "The other kids draw either houses or stick figures in my art class.. but Mila? She paints skies that look like they're breathing, tales that are far more advanced than usual kid drawings. She also draws with more pronounced detail.. knows random facts for them too, something you wouldn't expect from a five year old. It's.. it's beautiful."
Mike felt his heart flutter at the string of compliments being given to his daughter. He wasn't used to hearing anyone describe his daughter like that, especially so seen. Mila wasn't exactly wrong after all, this Mr. Byers was a wonderful teacher.
"Most teachers say she's.. secluded." He whispered quietly. "That she doesn't talk enough and handles things roughly. That.. that she doesn't fit in."
"She is secluded," Will admitted with a small nod. "But that's not exactly a flaw, it's just her way of processing the world. And honestly, she's amazing in my book. Brilliant, even. She doesn't need to be forced into the same mold as everyone else, and people need to know and learn that."
Mike listened with amazement, studying him closely as he spoke more about how good her grades were and gave a little report card all about it made by himself. But through all that, Mike couldn't help but get lost on how his hazel green eyes were showing this earnest look, hands gesturing gently as if he were shaping the air into something delicate.
And how he spoke without judgement and more of understanding was.. different. It was like he knew exactly what it felt like.
The young father felt the heaviness on his chest vanish at each word he spoke of.
"She doesn't.. open up to anyone, not easily.. no." Mike nodded quietly. "Not even me, sometimes. But she.. she talks to you?"
He bit his lip, wanting to add something to make him realize it wasn't an insult but before he could, Will responded to him with slight hesitation before nodding.
"She does, actually. She tells me about the stories you give her every bedtime and the stories she writes herself at home. She also said you're good at it too, a secret hobby you have aside from the office," He smiled softly at the memory. "That.. you're an author?"
Mike flushed, embarrassed at the thought of this somewhat stranger knowing every little bit of him already. "I.. I write a little, but.. it's.. um. It's nothing serious.." he explained.
"She thinks it's serious," Will raised a brow with amusement. "She told me you make up worlds for her, and that it was ten times better than a popular fairytale story that the other students would talk about. That's why I mentioned it – the school's looking for a literature teacher in the highschool department and.. I thought maybe you'd be interested for the role?"
Mike blinked again, surprised at the turn of events. He didn't know that he was going to be given a job offer in the process.
"Me? Teacher?" He sputtered.
He didn't exactly see himself working there in a place he already had distant memories of, especially towards teenagers who were too rebellious and uninterested to the likes of literature, but he didn't even expect working in the office too, but here he was. And maybe it was his calling? He did remember complaining about how low his salary is even if he worked his ass off everytime.
He needed better work salaries to provide for the both of him and Mila too so..
Will shrugged, "Do you prefer the preschool level? We have that too. You already have one student who thinks you're the best and looks up to you, why not try for twenty more?"
For a moment, silence bellowed between them. Mike's heart thudded in his chest, not just at the unexpected suggestion but from the way Will's cutely attractive smile lingered, soft and encouraging. He wasn't used to people seeing Mila's quietness as something worth protecting the same way he did, wasn't used to anyone seeing him either; the tired single father who disdained conferences or school events and made up excuses, showing up late to the first ones.
He cleared his throat, trying to look away to the way he tilted his head to the side too innocently that it was so.. adorable.
"I.. I'll think about it."
Will nodded, leaning back slightly. "And that's all I ask. Don't worry about Mila though, I know you heard about the misbehaviour that they're trying to point out but I saw the scene myself and.. it wasn't exactly as exaggerated as the way kids play it. She's just.. finding her own way, and I'll help keep encouraging her."
Mike exhaled slowly, his shoulders easing at that. "Thank you, really. It.. it really means a lot to hear someone say that."
Will's gaze softened. "She's lucky to have you, and honestly? You're lucky to have her too, I'd wish to have a child just like her but.." he bit his lip, stopping himself from giggling. "I don't think I'm able to get that."
It sounded like there was something more to what he meant, which Mike wanted to know.
"Hm?" He perked up, realizing he didn't even have a ring either – and it wasn't because of the school policies for teachers. "You don't have a child? Family? From the way you take care of children and Mila, I'd believe you already have one too."
"Well.. you see, I don't plan on having that," Will casually said, looking away making the sunlight fall down to his features with a beautiful glow. "And I'm pretty sure it's difficult for me to find the one."
He swore that he heard a mutter under his breath about being different, and it made Mike's eyes widen at the notion of the art teacher's little secret.
"I think it wouldn't be, being different doesn't make it difficult – I'd take it positively." Mike murmured quietly. "Just like Mila, maybe it'll just show who's the rare people that might like you for you along the way."
"I wasn't wrong when I say.." Will gave a small smile, looking back at him with appreciation. "She's really, really lucky to have you."
Mike looked down at his hands, then back up to the teacher who had just reframed his daughter's world in a single conversation – and perhaps even himself.
"Well.." Will slid the card to his direction on the table with a clear of his throat. "It was lovely to meet you, Mr. Wheeler. I wished to see Mila with you today but.."
"Um.. yes, sorry. She's with her aunt right now at the house, she decided to visit around for her and babysit." Mike took the card and placed it in his pocket, feeling a bit bad knowing he lied – he was the one who insisted on her coming anyways. "But yes, she really wanted me to come here today, and I'm glad that I actually did."
"I'm glad you agreed for the meeting too," Will hummed at that, standing up with his hand showing over to him that he took to shake. "I.. you know, you should come over to Family Day next week, Mr. Wheeler. It would be nice to have Mila get a representative – she told me she wanted to come there with you."
Family Day? Mike scrunched his nose, a bit unsure knowing he'd have the judging stares from other parents – not because of his daughter but because of how it was only him in the equation.
"Mila already told me about.. everything, actually. And.. don't worry, there wouldn't be any games that would require such things, she just.. needs her father with her." Will proposed, reassuring him thoughtfully.
Mike felt embarrassed knowing he saw through his expression, hand slowly letting go of his. "Oh. Well, if so I'll just.. try to check my schedule if I'm available?"
"Sure, that would be lovely! It's on a working holiday though so.." Will beamed. "I'm truly looking forward to seeing you!"
A blush crept behind Mike's neck, and he tried to look away from how excited the teacher seemed to be.
He was like this ray of sunshine.. someone very charismatic that he finally knew why the older lady earlier went out with a smile of her own. He couldn't even stop his.
"I'm.. I'm looking forward to seeing you too, Mr. Byers." He stammered out, rubbing the back of his neck.
"To you too, Mr. Wheeler."
He could remember the way Mila cheered when she heard the news from Mike when he went home – skidding from the floorboards to head to the doorway and cheerfully ask about how the talk went, jumping around when he reluctantly agreed about the Family Day event she started pleading about while he cleaned around the messy place.
"Please, please!" She exclaimed, clasping her hands over. "Mr. Byers said I'm blue team!"
Mike blinked over to her rambling, sighing softly when she said something about parents needing the same blue theme as the free shirt they talked about. "Does that mean I need to get a blue shirt too..
"Yes!"
Holly watched them with a grin, "So this Mr. Byers managed to make Mike Wheeler agree to something like that? He really has you wrapped around his finger already.."
Mike glared over to her, but his heart fluttered at the idea. Stupid heart.
Mika tugged over to his hand, jumping around happily when she sees him rummaging around the drawers for a matching blue shirt to her own free one.
"Dad! Dad!" She chirped. "Does this mean we can go with Mr. Byers on Fanily Day? He.. he's on blue team too– ooh! Wait! What's wrapped around finger? Aunt Holly?!"
Seeing her ramble between subjects, slowly opening up to him while learning more and more about this Will Byers made his uneasiness about the event waver down, the bubble he made for the two of them towards the world slowly leaving.
"Wrapped around his finger? Oh well, it means that your father Mike here has a little crushy and is starting to get all head over hee—" Holly grinned, about to continue with a little taunting voice until her mouth got covered by Mike's hand as if to stop her from spilling words out.
The muffled exclamations made Mila scramble over with confusion and curiosity etched on her face, trying her hardest to ask about what it meant through little giggles.
"Hey! Wait! Aunt Holly—" She squeaked, tugging over her sleeve.
Mike lets go of Holly and started scooping his daughter away, "No, no, no. You shouldn't know about that and it stays that way – don't listen to your aunt she's a tattle tail."
Holly furrowed her brows, crossing her arms with annoyance. "I am not a tattle tail!"
"Yes you are!"
"No I'm not!"
"Yes you are!"
The banter made Mila laugh, watching as she was brought around while Mike paces through circles, trying to get away from Holly who tried to catch them – her hands landing over to her father's shoulders to hold closely when the game of chase continued.
Mila started to talk about Will and the art project that they'd be having soon while they rushed away from Holly's clutches, looking up at her father with a beaming smile.
Mike couldn't help but do the same, finally stopping his tracks to look at her.
For the first time, he felt hope.
Okay maybe.. he sort of regretted going here the moment they went inside the school.
The gym was alive with noise whether it was the squeaking of shoes against the polished floors in the open or the laughter of children echoing off the high ceiling with vibrant colours that even followed towards the big field that had banners, balloons and shirts filled with so much colour – he could even see the teachers trying to wrangle the chaos of the little preschoolers, struggling to do so.
Mike Wheeler stood near the entrance with his hands shoved into his jacket pockets after he took a while outside to call his boss about something important, scanning the area for his daughter. Mila was easy to spot though, since she was pressed against the wall with her arms folded, watching the other kids playing with wary eyes.
She may get aggressive about things with boys, but she had reasons to do so if ever – besides, she was a quiet kid, and she stood that way.. nothing far from how he was when he was a little kid himself.
Mike sighed, shaking his head. She hates these things; too many people, too much noise.
The only reason she (they) wanted to go there was because of Mr. Byers and his sweet offer to make them do so anyways.
But before he was about to walk over, someone else beat him to it.
Will Byers crouched down beside Mila with a big smile on his face. His blue team t-shirt was a little bit bigger, sleeves rolled up a tad higher that showed his tan complexion – and he had this cap that he took off and placed it on top of her head, neat enough to not mess the braids Mike tried his best to make.
"Hey, Mila! Nice to see you here!" He beamed, before looking around with a curious gaze on his face. "Where's your dad?"
She then pointed over to Mike from afar silently, pursing her lips when she hears the loud squealing from one of the kids that roughly got toppled down to the ground – music playing loudly outside.
And then he met Will's eyes, and it felt like time stopped all over again.
Where did this familiar face come from again..
He stood awkwardly at his spot, rubbing the back of his neck. He didn't know why he suddenly felt so self-conscious with his clothing style; the blue shirt that he randomly found at the bottom of his pile by the closet, somewhat the same shade as Mila's own, his glasses still propped on his face.
Nor did he not know why he felt his heart beating faster at the sight of him holding Mila's hand as Will brought her over to him.
"Mr. Wheeler!"
Something about how he said it made it feel like it was a voice he's heard long before.
He just gave a little wave back.
"Have you signed up already in the list? We need you to do so before we can head out to the games," Will exclaimed, pointing over to the teachers that started rounding up their students within their teams. "..it's starting soon.. and I'm one of the demonstrators for the other games too!"
Mike shook his head, before clearing his throat, murmuring something under his breath before walking over to the line where the other parents were at – finding their constant gazes a bit too.. concerning. They were probably innocently looking over, but in his eyes, they'd judge him completely.
He could see some of the parents sitting by the bleachers, talking to their children – one in particular having the mother pester and scold about how their little boy should behave.
Mike's lips twitched into a bittersweet smile, and he looked back to his daughter who was looking at the same scene. She deserved to have both of them around. A mother.
He was about to try and get her attention when he was the next to write down in the list, making sure to do it legibly.
He could hear the conversation between his daughter and the art teacher from beside him, their hands swaying back and forth. He's never seen Mila act so carefree to other people besides their little circle.
"Do you wanna see me demonstrate the games later? Look!" Will pointed over to the people already walking around to their groups, the event already starting with their usual introductions. "And maybe after that you and your dad can head around to the booths! They have so many things around!"
"Things.." Mila repeated in a small voice before giving a slight nod. "You.. come?"
Will smiled softly at that, looking over to Mike, seeing him finishing his little listing.
"If your dad allows me to, sure!"
When they walked over to start following the other families that went to the separated teams – Mila sat down with the other kids near Mike who took a little seat near her, seeing how the other teachers started explaining about how this first game was parent priority first, with some teachers.
Will jogged to his fellow teachers, waving over to the kids that cheered at his direction. He seemed to be really loved by everyone.
"Woah, who's that?" One of the single mothers nearby muttered over to her friend. "He's pretty handsome! Might wanna start playing the game if he's coming."
Another whispered back. "I think that's the art teacher Stacy talks about! Mr. Byers."
Mike followed their gaze over to see how he started rushing around like a speeding bunny by the way he smiled happily – running fingers through his hair as he went in the little circle that the two teachers had, the stretchy thing that surrounded them, holding them back as an obstacle when they tried going around the chair from the other side and back.
"— As you can see, Mr. Byers will then join the other teachers over within the belt and run across the field to the chair, and then back, to be accompanied with Mr. Walsh. The goal is to complete it with everyone inside the little stretchy bubble, without falling out of it!" The announcer claimed, kids booming with excitement. "But we need ten volunteers, whether parents or teachers within the team!"
Mila immediately turned to him, giving him an expectant smile.
"Dad!" She shyly said, pointing over to him as the other parents watched them like a hawk.
Mike shook his head, "Mila.. you know how I'm not exactly fast enough to run." He turned to see the parents hesitantly rounding over to represent the team, the kids pushing them over with determination to win.
He then adds, "Besides, look, the group is about to be full already and—"
"You should join us, Mr. Wheeler." Mr. Byers.. or well.. Will – as it is written on the little name card – smiled at him, waving happily. "We need another hand, I think it'll be best if it came from you. You'd be swift!"
Mike's heart stuttered at that, cheeks flushed.
"What? I don't think so.." He croaked, shaking his head with embarrassment. "I.. I think I'm too physically incompetent with this.. besides, I failed physical education and—"
Will gave a small smile, clasping his hands together. "Please?"
He swallowed the lump in his throat seeing the persuading look on his face, and then over to Mila who nodded rapidly at Will's every word.. the others were struggling to find another member for the group, and with that.. he found himself standing up with a defeated sigh escaping his lips.
"Fine."
"YAY!!" Mila cheered, hugging him immediately with enthusiasm that seemed to finally seep out of the cracks, other kids looking at them with cheers, complimenting Mila and her saviour of a father.
Will ushered him over to the starting line with the other group, standing behind him as he explained the mechanics to them again, keeping in the friendly smile that seemed to gain motivation for Mike (and the others).
So with that they started with the slow runners in the front until the last ends had the quicker ones, Mike staying in the middle with Will right infront of him, buzzing with excitement that it was infectious.
He's way shorter. He thought, looking down at him with a soft expression, seeing every cheer he gave to the others when the game started – clapping his hands even if they weren't the ones ahead of the others. But it's cute, it's like he's this little bunny rabbit.
Mr. Perez turned to Will, the both of them the next runners – he flashed a smiles confidently, the orange lines painted on his cheeks giving a tell-tale sign on which team he was in.
"Can't wait to see you lose, Will!"
"You wish, Chance."
And when they see their teams nearing over, Will didn't hesitate to run as far as he can go when he joins in the circle, hands flailing around as they moved a few steps quicker than the other opposing teams.
Mike didn't even find himself looking anywhere but Will's eyes that met his when they went over to him, and he had to flinch with realization that he was next when he heard Mila actually cheer for once, loudly and uncharacteristically that it made him focus.
So when they reached him, Mike didn't hesitate to hop in and run beside Will with determination until laughter bubbled out of him, seeing Mila from afar jump around saying how they were the first ones now.
He waved over and was about to continue speeding with the rest until he accidentally slipped from something hidden beneath the grass making him stumble down – the rest of the group looking over to him with shock.
Will instantly helped him up, his touch continuing to linger with a warmth that made the ravenet's heart flutter – looking over to him as he was brought over until the final parent that impatiently waited zoomed when given the chance, their team barely taking the lead as the announcer counted through his megaphone against cheers.
Mike bit the inside of his cheek, trying to continue profusely even during the horrible ache he felt on his ankle, the cheers growing louder when they took the last turn and head their way back to the starting point across.
"Ten.. nine.. eight.. seven.." He tried pushing forwards even more, seeing how Mr. Perez at the other team was doing the same – grinning wildly. Oh he remembered this one, very well actually.. this was Mila's old physical education teacher.
Speaking of Mila, he could see how the once timidly shy girl by the bleachers started waving around blue pompoms the team provided, beaming with a big smile that made him give one back. That was all he needed as motivation to move forward.
"Six.. five.. four.."
He took the lead, eyes narrowing.
"Three.."
The other teams tried leveling up with them.
"Two.."
Then, he braced himself over to the end, pushing themselves over before they could.
"One!"
Will gasped, looking over to him with happiness when they managed to come back as first place, the children squealing and jumping from their seats.
Mila found herself rushing over to her father, throwing her hands to embrace him with a big hug that he took in with open arms, the two of them sharing a happy laugh together.
And Will couldn't help but watch them with a warm smile, wishing he could share that same experience with his own. Nonetheless, he was happy – they looked adorable.
It didn't take long until the games continued to progress with a good start.. that slowly dropped their hopes of winning when they were accompanied with this heavy loss. At some point, Will would unashamedly exclaim over to the other team about how they probably cursed them for their losses.
That took a toll to their team as the only win they had was at the start. The two other games that happened afterwards – tug of war and charades managed to be taken by the other teams, supposedly making it turn into a tie between a few. Blue has one, Red has one, Yellow has one.
Now was a new game, and the already distraught and silent Mila was sitting with her dad at the seat, nervously watching as the mechanics were announced with some students already trying out for it – cheering around until some kid backed out because he didn't want to do much, and the little kids had a division of ideas and panic.
She tried to pretend not looking when she saw Will glancing over to her constantly, knowing exactly what she was thinking. She wanted to try, but she was too scared to initiate.
So he went over to them, lowering down to level with her. "Hey Mila! The blue team needs you right now, we're building the tallest tower with the building blocks! Wanna help us out?" His voice was gentle but just enough cheer to cut through the din.
Mila's eyes flicked up, a bit uncertain with her small hands grasping over to Mike's shirt.
"I don't.. I don't wanna.." She stuttered with a small shake of her head, looking over to the boxes with longing in her eyes.
"Hm.. that's okay," Will said easily as if rejection never fazed him. "You don't have to.. but if you want to, you could be the one who decides where the blocks go! Like an architect, you'd be the boss.. and no one else gets that job it seems," He then fixed the cap on her head. "I know you'd be the perfect one!"
Mike watched with quiet fascination; Will didn't exactly push her to do it, but invited with open arms, and made it sound like Mila had the power and not pressure.. which would help her build confidence.
Slowly, Mila's arms loosened from the cross and she lets go of Mike, hopping off his lap to shuffle forward to him – Will taking a few steps backwards to give her space.
"Architect?" She repeated, testing the word.
"Yes, exactly." Will grinned. "You know.. the boss of the group? The one who says, 'The block goes here!'." He exclaimed, trying to mimic an old voice that made her giggle with amusement.
He then hands a wooden block that toppled from their team's table, the kids groaning with annoyance. He seemed patient even if the time was ticking. "So.. what do you think? Should it go on top ooor.. should we start a new base? Hm?"
Mila took the block, walking over to the group with hesitation before pointing. "On top."
"On top it is," Will mused, carefully placing it to where she directed. The other kids beamed with amazement, slowly listening to the instructions the girl gave them and the tower slowly built on its own.
Mila's lips twitched into the smallest smile, somewhat subtle but enough to be noticed making both Will and Mike melt as if they were already accomplished with their lives.
She was laughing now, just a little, when the tower wobbled and collapsed.
Will laughed with her too while brushing the bangs out of his eyes as he stood nearby them to watch, smiling happily like the kids before they started rebuilding.
Mike felt something stir in his chest at the scene of them working together, the kids already letting Mila in their group while she opens up to them. Relief? Pride.. maybe even both – either way, it was all thanks to Will.
He's good with her, Mike thought. Better than anyone else has been.
And when the time was up and they started measuring the towers of building blocks over with theirs being the highest one, Mila's anxious looking posture dropped until she started jumping around with her newfound friends, all of them cheering her name as they hugged her with laughter.
Pictures were being taken as the announcer claimed how the Blue Canary's were finally the winners after this long Family Day experience, everyone of the team that were by the bleachers started laughing and taking pictures with bright smiles.
Will was one of them, stepping backwards until he lunged over to the closest person, his eyes closed shut.
"Oh my goodness we finally won!" He chirped, immediately throwing himself over to Mike without thinking – hugging him with the same excitement as earlier buzzing close. "I can't believe it, I can't believe it!—"
Mike's eyes widened when he felt arms wrap around his neck, and his own stayed frozen – not knowing if it was even right to hug back.
Feeling not a single reciprocation made Will feel awkward, fluttering his eyes open to only see none other than Mike Wheeler standing there, being the person he hugged unashamedly.. and terribly quick.
"Oh my goodness, I'm so sorry!" He exclaimed, the flush on his cheeks growing even more.
Mike's lips parted, not knowing what to say back until the loud clicking noises of the camera was heard – his eyes glancing over to seeing some of the staff taking pictures of the scene with a smile before continuing on with the rest of the day like nothing bad happened.
They slowly pulled away, Will rubbing the back of his neck as he stammered more words.
"I.. I didn't mean to, I'm so sorry, that must be quite unprofessional, I just get so excited that I don't even think that much and—"
"It's fine, really. I'd do the same thing if I was you anyways.. so I don't have a say." Mike shrugged, seeing Mila walking over to him and hugging them both closely. "Mila!"
He smiled with that, patting her head before sighing. "I'm so proud of you, Mila.."
She grinned at that, turning over to Will who nodded with agreement, trying to forget the awkward hug they shared.
"I told you you were amazing," He whispered sweetly. "An absolute boss!"
The day continued on with more side games after the big awarding ceremony and Mila tried making new friends – some kids walked up to her and complimented how amazing she did during the whole building blocks game, trying to invite her over their games or start getting to know her more while the parents were with them, watching her closely.
And Mike felt like the proudest person ever alive, holding her hand to showcase that hey, I'm this girl's dad and I'm as proud as I've ever been since before – what made it better was the fact that things felt more at ease because nobody dared asking where her mother was in a rude way that was always done before.
He found himself conversing with some of the parents too about Mila and how amazing she was, buying the both of them food while she played around with friends – one hand holding the delicious snacks while the other a paper cup filled of soda.
He walked over to her, calling her attention before handing it with a smile.
"You guys seem exhausted.. or is it just me?" The familiar voice made him perk over to the direction of the sound, Mike's eyes widening when he sees Will standing nearby. "And is that friends I see? Are you finally making friends Mila, or are they your little workers while you're bossing them around?"
Mila laughed at the joke, rocking her heels back and forth while her friends stood close. She looked tired and a bit overwhelmed with the attention – she somewhat looked like her father at that very moment – but her smile hadn't faded completely.
Will hummed softly, rummaging in a tote bag he brought for supplies. "You know," He said, voice low and conspiratorial. "I brought something for the team MVP!"
Mila blinked. "What's MVP?"
"Most Valuable Player, " He explained, pulling out a small but floppy-eared bunny plushie; it's pink fur was soft, the stitched smile crooked but showed bunny teeth that looked similar to him, but he held it out to her. "And that's you, you helped us build and laughed when it fell but kept on going like a good team player – that's what makes someone really valuable, you know?"
Mila's eyes widened, and she pointed at herself like it was impossible. "Me?"
"For you!" Will confirmed, placing it gently in her hands. "He's good at listening too. If you ever feel quiet, you can tell him your stories and he won't tell anyone. Scouts honour."
Mila hugged the bunny tight, face lighting up in a way that Mike never saw for weeks. She wasn't lying when she said she felt understood by Will the same way Mike understood her.
"Thank you."
The kids start asking and booping the stuffed animal around, circling over to her with curiousity while Will stood next to Mike.
"Thank you as well, by the way." Mike cleared his throat. "She loves bunnies."
Will glanced up at Mike, smiling softly. "Mhm, luckily I won that prize in some booth game. I thought she deserves something that makes her feel safe atleast."
Mike swallowed, suddenly feeling aware if how warm his ears felt.
"You really didn't have to.."
"Well, I know, but I wanted to," Will interrupted gently, placing a hand on his shoulder that left an innocent spark. "Besides, every architect needs a mascot!"
Mila heard that, holding the bunny aloft.
"He's the architect bunny! Archie!"
Will laughed at that, which made Mike find himself doing the same, through his heart was racing for reasons he didn't want to admit yet – nor could ever explain with words.
But amidst that, everything felt better.
It's been weeks after Family Day and everything went back to the same as it always was – sort of. Mila was more confident day by day and had this little social circle she called herself home within the school, even if there were still bullies and mean people who never understood her differences. And they started reappearing during Mother's Day too.
Mila was acting weird the whole morning though, and usually he would think it was because of how it was the said event and she didn't know who to give a card to.. but this was a different sort of weird; she kept smiling and happily writing down some card that he didn't know who it was for.
So it was a good weird..?
This day started truly like no other, because when Mike was supposed to be finished fixing his stuff before they'd leave until he saw the messy area she was in. And it would've been crazy to assume it came from Holly, because his little sister would tend to do the same.
The kitchen table was cluttered with colorful construction paper, glue sticks, and markers that were used. Mila sat cross-legged on the chair with her tongue poking out in concentration while she folded a piece of pink paper inside the envelope.
Mike leaned against the counter when he found himself moving over, grabbing his coffee and taking a sip to watch her work. He assumed she was making something for her grandmother – or maybe a card for her aunts.
"Mila, hey, what are you doing? We have to go to school already, you might get late." He reminded, pointing at his watch. "Who's that for? Is that a card?"
Mila turned to him before nodding repeatedly, giggling to herself. "It's special!"
She then scrambled up from her spot to start shoving it in her little My Little Pony backpack, her hands holding the bag straps excitedly. "I.. I wanna make them happy, go! Let's go!"
Mike frowned, confused.
Who?
Later that afternoon was already the preschool dismissal time, and Mike found himself standing awkwardly by the pickup line with a timid smile. He could see the fellow parents who nodded at him for acknowledgement, and then some kids who rushed out of the gate to throw themselves and greet their mothers with some card they made during break time.
He was waiting for Mila, but it seemed like she was busy with her own world – calling for Mr. Byers who was holding the same card he saw during this morning, a sweet smile dancing on his rosy lips.
She clearly debated on hiding it, especially when the bullies started teasing her about how she didn't exactly have someone to give anything to.. so why would she give some card – and that did pester her, but she clutched it proudly when Will appeared.
Mike gave a look of horror, the pieces of the puzzle slowly fitting in. Wait.. did she make the Mother's Day card for..
"Hey, Mila, what's this?" Will greeted warmly, seeing her thrust the card forward, over to him even more. "Did you make something?"
"It's.. it's for you!"
Mike felt like he wanted the ground to swallow him underneath, and hopefully when he already is – it had a matching deathbed coffin that held him close with soundproof covers.
Will blinked, surprised for a second and then read the words closely.
In bold yet uneven letters, it read: Happy Mother's Day, Mr. Byers!
His lips parted, and for a moment Mike thought he might laugh.
But instead, Will's expression softened.
"This.. this is beautiful. Thank you, Mila, I'll make sure to treasure it," He then looked around as if trying to find her father before his eyes settled down to the familiar face that tried to hide out of shame. "Mr. Wheeler!"
Mike froze from his spot, slowly looking up with humiliation, giving a little wave.
It was just this moment in time where he actually felt normal to go to the preschool area without being afraid and hide by somewhere barely crowded until Mila was there, even managing to greet the teachers who seemed to be a lot more nicer to both him and Mila all because of Mr. Byers.. and his amazing way of helping around.
And he wasn't sure if he was going to ever go out there anymore because of this..
He cleared his throat and stepped forward quickly, "Sorry.. so sorry about that. She.. she doesn't usually do things like this, I didn't even know that she had a card but.. it made sense when I saw her trying her best to make something earlier this morning. And well, I mean, it's Mother's Day and.."
Will's eyes twinkled with happiness, "Don't apologize. It means she trusts me, and.." He bit the inside of his cheek, seeing how Mila waved at some of her classmates.. something that was new. "And maybe you should too."
Mike was caught off guard by the gentle challenge in his tone. "I.. I do. I just.. didn't want you to think—"
"That you're embarrassed?" Will tilted his head, giggling softly. "Don't be. It's sweet and.. honestly? I'm really flattered."
Mike's ears burned. He wanted to disappear but Will's gaze held him in place.
Then, almost casually, Will added, "You know.. maybe to make you trust me more, we could talk around in a more better setting. Dinner, maybe? If you want."
Mike's heart stumbled. Was that flirting? Is he flirting with me?– is Mr. Byers..
He opened his mouth, closed it, then opened again – looking like some bubbling fish underwater which made Mila laugh.
"Dinner?"
Will shrugged, gesturing the little girl to go to her father which she complied with, latching onto him immediately. "Sure. Teachers eat too, you know. And I'd like to hear more about your writing. Mila says you're good."
Mike tried to keep his voice steady, swallowing the lump in his throat.
"I.. I'll think about it," He bit his lip, seeing the art teacher wave at little Mila like he didn't just.. invite him to dinner. "Thank you again."
Will's smile widened, just enough to make Mike's heart pulse race even more.
"That's all I ask."
And as they walked home, Mila skipped ahead and hummed to herself while Mike followed slowly with his mind spinning. He had come to pick her up, and maybe then apologize, smooth over his daughter's misplaced affection too.
But instead, he left with a possibility of something he didn't dare imagine him getting in a random Tuesday afternoon. A new connection — or maybe.. love.
"Are you okay, dad?" She beamed, stopping her skipping when she sees him slowing down. "Dinner with Mr. Byers.. can I come?!"
Mike shook his head, "Mila.. I um.. it's an important meeting." He cleared his throat, waving his hand off while she pouts at him. He tried to change the topic though, "Wait.. sweetheart.. you made the letter earlier this morning.. for Mr. Byers?"
Mila looked unfazed by the reaction, nodding like it was normal. "He's.. special!"
Mike rubbed his temples, "But.. he's not your mom, Mila.."
"He's the one who listens," She answered simply, remembering how she added a crooked heart beside the words during recess. "He makes me feel.. safe, like you do."
That made his heart clench a little, not knowing whether to feel proud that she finally has another person to feel safe to aside from him, happy that she's actually making a card or.. embarrassed that it was towards a teacher that wasn't exactly family.. but to her, he definitely is, so what more is there to say?
"You can't just.. give your art teacher a Mother's Day card, what if he has a significant other or something? And what if he gets offended about that too. He'll think—" He stopped himself. Think what? That I can't handle being some single dad.. or that Mila sees him as a part of the family already?
"But.. but he said that he doesn't have, because he's different." So he wasn't wrong when he heard that murmur before. "Mr. Byers is sweet.. like a mom!"
Mike sighed softly, shaking his head. He really couldn't do anything about this.
"Are you going with him?" She cooed, shaking her hand. "Please go with him!"
He blushes profusely, looking away.
"Ye—"
"YAYY!!" She squealed, clapping her hands as if it was something long awaited.
But that made him give a small smile, looking back from the block to see the preschool still not that far away, the art teacher attending to every student and waving goodbye to them with his cute bunny smile. He was awfully domestic that it was endearing.
And maybe.. he'd want to get to know more of this art teacher too.
("You really look different without glasses," Will smiled, thanking him as they sat down on their little area in Enzo's. It didn't take much longer for them to actually start emailing one another – Will tried finding his email account just for this moment. "You look good with or without them, so it's not much of a problem."
Mike cleared his throat, pulling his collar awkwardly while seeing how it seemed like nothing for Will as he checked the menu.
"I just.. forgot my glasses, that's all." He stuttered, shaking his head. "You look.. beautiful, by the way, Mr. Byers."
"It's Will."
Mike perked up to see a teasing smile.
"You do know that we're already outside the school setting, you can call me by my first name if you'd like," Will leaned forward, eyes sparkling when he sees how he grew a bit more nervous by it. "And you don't seem to look bad yourself, did you get your hair done?"
"Mila.. uh.." Mike coughed. "Mila sort of helped me with some gel but might've overdone it, said that I needed to look good and impress you.. on this meeting—" Meeting? Oh my goodness Michael you fool!
"Date." Will looked up, biting his lip. "I thought.. we both knew it was a date? Or did I misunderstood this all wrong?"
"Oh– no! You weren't wrong, sorry.. I'm just.. I haven't had dates before in a long time so I'm just really nervous, and.. I can't really think much because you're here and I feel like some weird flustered teenager who just had some first crush and all and this is exactly why Dustin and Lucas didn't make me sign up for more blind dates and —" he rambled, hands flailing around that it made the waiter that wanted to walk over.. step back.
"Wait. Dustin.. Henderson..? And Lucas.. Sinclair?" Will's eyes widened, bursting into a fit of laughter as he realized something.
Mike furrowed his brows, puzzled. "Wait.. how do you know them?"
"I knew it you sounded too familiar, it really is you," Will shyly smiled. "Mike Wheeler."
It barely sounded foreign on his tongue that it left him flustered. "What?–"
"Oh, sorry. This is actually the main reason why I wanted to get close to you," He whispered bashfully. "I'm Will Byers, the little boy that agreed to be your friend back in preschool? Here in Hawkins? Uh.. if you do remember that."
Mike's eyes widened. "No way.."
"Yes way!" Will laughed, nodding with excitement. "And I used to have this huge crush on you back in elementary. I wanted to be close friends but there was this domino effect where my father just.. didn't want me to get close to you, which led to a lot of problems. Then I just.. moved out with my mother off to Lenora with my siblings and well.. that's why I didn't even get to come back here, but now I did."
The ravenet's gaze softened when he sees Will ramble about how much he's had this major liking towards him — it made him realize that they really had a shared history, and if it weren't for Mila, they wouldn't even get this talk about how close they actually were in this little dinner date.. or have this connection with this art teacher.
So maybe he didn't regret a single thing.)