Death and Dopamine

Hawkins hadn't recovered like everyone hoped. The cracks split down the town were now covered with heavy slabs of metal—guards surrounding each silver path. But the townspeople had seen enough to not think twice before staying away from it.

The spores that contaminated the air still swirled around like snow, the sky which was usually a bright blue had stayed its grim colors, the sun being a rare sighting.

Though the days in which it did come out, were the days where everyone tried to forget the days in which it wasn't.

Sophomore year for the party went by faster than any of them expected. With 3 months left in the school year they did their best to blend in, despite having meetings almost everyday—to discuss new things about the military, planning their first "crawl"

Everyone grew, matured. Their baby faces were starting to go away, replaced by features they would see for the rest of their lives.

Dylan's blond hair had darkened with the lack of sun, his curls more defined as he styled a short mullet— courtesy to Steve. And he took better care of himself. He was eating well, his visible ribs were now only shown when he stretched—building muscle around his once weak frame. Then he was surprisingly getting good amounts of sleep, his dark eye bags were lighter, and he had gained his warm color back.

Dylan hadn't had a vision in a while, and he only suffered from a few headaches, but those were usually from stress. The nightmares had turned for the worst though.

Every night Dylan saw a new face that haunted him, a possibility of death to someone in his life. Dylan was reminded that everyday—even the days in which were good—he was going to be haunted, tormented.

He remembered seeing limbs of people in Hawkins around the upside down, and when he made it to the other side he saw more. People screaming for their loved ones, buildings that Dylan grew up with destroyed. But the worst moment was having to drag Dustin away from Eddie's cold body, as his good friend thrashed and screamed, not wanting to leave the man alone.

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UPSIDE DOWN

Dylan saw Eddie's lifeless body on the ground of ash.

Dylan's breath was staggered as he inhaled sharply—still feeling the phantom pain in his heart. Tears fell down his face. Max was dead. Eddie was dead.

Dustin held Eddie close to him, crying, gasping for air. Dustin had seen death, lost people he was aware of. And he lost his dad before he even knew him. But as Eddie's eyes had no sign of life in them, his joyful smile now a memory across his pained face. It hurt....more than anything.

"Eddie..." Dustin mumbled

Steve came to him first, his eyes scanning over Eddie's body with a look of remorse. "Dustin. Come on."

Dustin simply shook his head. Ignoring Steve's hand on his shoulder. Dylan was less gentle. He knew they had no time. "Dustin. We need to go." Dylan said.

Dustin sharply inhaled "I can't just leave him here!"

Dylan shook his head, pushing Steve away from Dustin before he grabbed the boy by his arms. "Let's go." His voice cracked, as Dustin screamed, thrashing, trying to get away from Dylan, and keeping his weight off of a broken ankle.

"Dustin!" Dylan yelled, keeping him from hitting him, but not using enough strength to hurt him.

"Stop! I can't leave him! I can't just leave him here!" Dustin cried.

Dylan turned him around to face him. "He's dead! Dustin. And Max is dead! And a bunch of other people in Hawkins."

Dustin paused, his tears not stopping, but his limbs grew weak. Dylan swallowed the spit that caught in his throat. "I can't lose anyone else today, Dustin." Dylan pleaded. As Dustin looked towards the floor before nodding solemnly.

"Steve.." Dylan called, as Steve quickly took Dustin. Supporting his weight. As they walked away Dylan stood in front of Eddie. The promise he had made to him floating away like the ash.He felt a gentle hand on his shoulder, as he looked over to see Nancy.

He walked by Nancy and Robin. Steve and Dustin in-front of them. This was the only time Dylan had ever dreaded going back to his real town. He could already smell the burning bodies, see the blood.

As they found a gate, Dylan led his bright fire flame over the red strings—creating a purple rim to Hawkins. Dylan ignored the blood down his face, the look of suprise and recognition from Dustin.Dylan had come back to life, and once again, violence was one of the first things introduced to him.

__________________________________

And Dylan knew Vecna had some awareness of how they were looking for him. Because he had stopped bothering Dylan—stopped reminding Dylan of what could happen. Or he didn't need to, Dylan could see the damage all around him. ____________________________________

11 months Later. February 1886. HAWKINS HIGH SCHOOL

Dylan let his leg bounce against the hard floors, his new converse decorated with familiar sketches by Wills hands, and some bright coloring by Holly.

He let the burgundy Henley shirt he had on slightly roll up to his forearms. The old scar on his left wrist was covered by his watch and colorful bracelets made by Jane—and the other faint scars on his neck and palms were ones Dylan just didn't care about. Everyone in Hawkins were more focused on the stains that grew on their windows due to the spores, and the lovers lake that had developed a brownish color.

Dustin Henderson sat next to Dylan in the lab, he was a lot better at physics than Dylan ever was. Since Dylan had taken advanced chemistry his freshmen year he was stuck having to take advanced physics for his sophomore year. He hated the class, hated the subject—the teacher. Having a friend was the only thing keeping him going.

"I don't think I should introduce El to physics just yet, shes still a bit confused on biology, mainly how DNA carries genetic instructions. But I am definitely going to start moving up to geometry for her." Dustin rambled, he had taken the role of tutoring Jane, it was a lot easier for her to learn when she wasn't under the pressure of a school curriculum. and Dustin had volunteered to guide her. And it was easier for Dustin to cope when he had her by his side.

"Hopefully she can actually start school. You're a great tutor it's just—" Dylan fiddled with his pencil.

"I know." Dustin nodded. "Maybe one day."

"What about her reading comprehension? Have y'all finished Romeo and Juliet?" Dylan asked. Jotting down equations from the board "R..equals..2MG" Dylan muttered.

"Yes. She did. We did." Dustin had a warm smiled plastered to his face, which he quickly hid. "She did really well, of course I helped her understand what the story was about, but as for actually being able to sound out the words and read them, she passed."

"You can use Suzie as an example. Star-crossed lovers." Dylan teased, but the smile that was once on Dustin's face was now covered with a look of discomfort. "Uhh me and Suzie aren't, dating anymore." Dustin informed.

"What? Man I'm sorry—" Dylan was cut off by Dustin

"Don't apologize. It's nothing crazy, we just kinda stopped talking." Dustin shrugged "Im not hung up on her." Dustin's eyes softened as he seemed to be thinking of another.

"Oh....you're not? Who do you have in mind Dusty?" Dylan raised his brows.

Dustin's cheeks grew rosy, as he grew stiff. "What!? No one. No one at all."Dylan turned around from his paper and pencil, looking at Dustin suspiciously, glancing down at the green and yellow bracelet Jane made him, Dustin met Dylan's gaze as he paled.

Before Dylan could say anything the principal walked in. "Im sorry, Mr. Davis, but can I borrow Dylan Harrington?"

The stubby teacher set his chalk down giving the principal a polite nod, looking at Dylan along with everyone else in the room. Dylan stood up, grabbing his backpack and lazily shoving his paper inside.

"What did you do?" Dustin whispered

"I didn't do anything!" Dylan hushed. "See you at lunch."

Dylan passed by the desk, walking out of the classroom. Other then the sounds of the principals feet, the hallways were quiet. Dylan was racking his brain full of possibilities. What did he do? Why was the principal escorting him? The last time he was escorted was when Will went missing. Was someone in trouble? "I remember your brother." Principal Higgins spoke. "He was well known. The "king" as people would say." He stopped infront of his office door.

"You were adopted? Right son?" The man asked.

"Uhh, yes sir." Dylan replied, glancing behind him, paranoid.

"Yeah I could tell, you're nothing like him." He said calmly, ignoring the way Dylan's brows furrowed. He opened the door. Dylan quickly forgot the comment as he was met with three people in the room. Two men almost the same height as him, dressed in murky colors. And a woman with white short hair. They were military. Dylan's stomach dropped, did they know he knew about Jane? Dylan kept his face blank, his composure calm, if they did he would never let them know where she was. Never.

"Mr. Harrington." The woman spoke kindly, clasping her hands together as she motioned for him to sit down infront of her. "Have a seat...thank you Mr. Higgins. Thats all I'll need from you." The principal closed the door. Leaving Dylan and the military in the room. Dylan cautiously sat down, not taking his eyes off of the three.

"Im happy to see you, Mr. Harrington—" she smiled

"Dylan's fine." He replied with a polite purse of his lips.

"Dylan." She said, almost as if she was tasting the sound of his name on her tongue. "I didn't want to disturb you at school, but I felt as if this was the best place. My name is Dr.Kay, what class were you just in—?

"Im sorry, what am I doing here?" Dylan impatiently asked.

The women seemed amused, smiling. "I won't keep you here long. To further understand our situation here in Hawkins, we've decided on choosing a couple of students here, from 16-18, to be apart of our youth program."

Dylan remained confused, promoting her to continue."After looking through your files, grades, history here at Hawkins. We found you to be a perfect candidate."

Dylan scoffed "Why is that?"

"If you agree, you'll be given information that would help you and us. But some things are better unsaid." Dr. Kay explained. "You'll be the first recruited, we'll give you benefits, such as a later curfew, lessons on weapons for protection, a choice of work. We have fields. Combat, labs, medical."

Dylan suspiciously looked towards the men behind her, not presenting Dylan with a friendly demeanor. they were guarding her. Whoever this lady was, she was obviously important. "Umm, whats the reason for this? What could..kids give you, kids in Hawkins?" He asked.

"I find the youth to be the most important and impactful. You'll get experience, volunteer hours. This would be great for college. And what's happening right now in your town is frightening. Don't you want to help?" Dr. Kay spoke.

Dylan seemed to understand the women very quickly. She was determined, and for some reason she was very determined to have Dylan on her side. At the same time it didn't seem like the women knew Dylan was linked to the girl she was looking for. Dylan felt like being apart of this could help him and his family. "Can I get a day? To decide?"

Dr. Kay didnt see like the type of person who liked waiting, but she nodded anyway. "Of course." She was handed a card by one of the men, as she then gave it to Dylan. "Call this number anytime before 11:00 pm tomorrow. You get a day."

Dylan felt the hard paper on his skin. The intensity of her gaze, it was a bit overwhelming. Dylan was still so confused. He had to tell Steve, had to tell Hopper, had to tell Mike.

"Let's keep this between us. Okay?" She stood up, walking towards the door. Glancing behind her, waiting for an answer from Dylan. The boy looked from the card "S-sure." He nodded.

He had to tell everyone.

___________________________________

THE SQWAUK. After school.

Dylan sat on the yellow couch. Steve rummaging through music records in bins, putting them on the wall, Robin seated infront of the party. Lucas, Dustin, and Will sat next to Dylan. As Mike was pacing back and forth.

"Why the hell is the military trying to organize a youth program?" Steve questioned

"The military loves kids. Why wouldn't they start a youth program." Robin replied. "The bigger question is, why Dylan?"

"She didn't tell you why they wanted you?" Will asked. Dylan shrugged "I tried to get her too, she told me some things were better left unsaid, it was all really creepy."

"It's more than creepy." Mike paced "it's...its." Dylan's eyes stayed glued to Mike as he paced back and forth. Micheal had a curled piece of hair fall on the right side of his forehead, and he wore a brown jacket. After a moment of staring, Dylan realized where his bomber jacket had gone. Micheal was wearing his jacket. Dylan's cheeks grew a bright shade of red. As he quickly looked away.

"Suspicious." Lucas finished his sentence. "There has to be a bigger reason. Do you think she knows about your abilities?"

"If she did, he wouldn't be here. They would have taken him like they're trying to take El." Dustin replied.

"Hey." Steve turned to face them. "Let's wait until Nancy, Hopper, and the rest of them arrive, before jumping to conclusions." Steve said. Putting away the last music record. Walking past Dylan as he put his hand on Dylan's shoulder, giving him a small squeeze of comfort."I need some of you to help me with the boxes downstairs." Steve called out. As Dylan stood up, Mike and Lucas followed. Dylan slide over the large cover shelf to the bunker they had in the radio tower. The group had used this place for when they discussed topics of a Crawl, or theories on the military. It was a bit dusty, and there were one too many boxes of storage they needed to clear.

Lucas and Steve went to the opposite side of the basement, leaving Mike and Dylan with towers of boxes in a smaller area. "My dad asked about you this morning." Mike said, wiping some dust off of a box.

"Your dad?" Dylan exclaimed "Ted Wheeler. Asked about me?" The two spoke quietly, as if they had something to hide.

Mike smiled "Yeah, I know. I mean Holly had said something first. But he just usually ignores her."

"Either way, this proves the world really is ending." Dylan joked, as he smiled, successfully making Micheal laugh. "What did he ask?"

"What you were up to? Or something like that." Micheal picked up a heavier box, his breath hitching over the weight. Dylan quickly took it from Mikes hands. "Careful Wheeler." Dylan held the box with one hand, picking up a smaller box with his other. "Im sure your Dad still thinks I'm a Russian spy."

"Oh, definitely." Mike smiled.He wiped the dust off the brown jacket, checking to make sure it was clean. Dylan could barely breathe from the amount of dust, and the way his throat closed up from how the jacket fit perfectly around Mikes shoulders but was baggier towards his arms. Mike met with Dylan's eyes, slightly tilting his head.

"I-is..t-that my jacket?" Dylan asked, he knew the answer, but he still wanted confirmation. He could see the way Mikes eyes widened for a moment, his mouth slightly agape.

"I think so. I mean. I know so." Mike sputtered "About that. Uhmm..my jackets are at the dry cleaners, this was the only one. Remember when the party had that movie night? last week? You left it in my basement. And I know "why didn't i return it?!" Well about that, I was. But then I...Forgot?" Mike rambled. He felt himself glow from embarrassment, he could barely meet Dylan in his eyes. Dylan was probably gonna look at him like a weirdo.

Dylan looked at Mike like he hung the moon. At this point it was simply muscle memory for Dylan to admire Mike. The way he rambled, or the way his eyebrows shot up when he rambled. Or how his lips pursed to the side. "Oh, cool." He awkwardly said. As soon as his words left his mouth Dylan wanted to die, just so that he could come back and forget how awkward he's being.

"I can give it back to you after today." Mike prompted.

"No, no. It's alright. You look better in it anyway." Dylan responded. His cheeks heating up. "And it's cold. You'll need it...so you dont get cold.....I'll uhm..take these upstairs." Dylan shook the box. With an awkward smile. Quickly walking away from Mike.

Steve met up with him halfway, whispering to him."What was that?"

"Shut up, Steve." Dylan warned. Walking away from his brother as well. Hiding in his shame.

Mike watched him walk away, feeling the butterflies in his stomach quickly cause it to ache. He felt guilty for feeling anything other than friendship. Dylan trusted him, he was his best friend. The past months have been a rollercoaster between the two. There conversations are light, comforting, and then something happens and one of them disappears, just for them to meet up again and go through the exact same thing.

He was going to say things that gave Mike bits of hope. But that didn't mean Mike should cling on to them. Mike felt gross, he could feel every part of the jacket on him. but he still kept it on.

That familiar pound in his head that started a few days ago was beginning to annoy Mike. He shook it off. He just needs some water..

___________________________________

Hopper, Jane, Joyce, Jonathan, and Nancy arrived. All at the same time. Jane quickly gave them a smile hugging Will first, then Dylan, then Dustin, then Lucas, and then Mike.

As the group went back down to the bunker they had spent the last 20 minutes cleaning, Dylan explained everything. What Dr. Kay had offered, what he would be apart of. And he even handed Jim the card.

The party sat down on the couch, Nancy at the edge, Jonathan and Robin beside her. Steve stood next to Dylan on his left side, Jane on his right. The three in-front of the couch. 

"If I'm not mistaken, Dr. Kay is the major general. She runs the shit show. Why would she want you or any other kid for that matter." Hopper said

"She knew your history right? Thats what she said." Joyce replied. "Maybe she does know about his powers."

"Yeah, but if that was the case, she wouldn't just give me a choice." Dylan ran his fingers through his hair. "It's really weird, but, it's probably just a coincidence....and I think I should do it."

"What!" Steve yelled "no way! Im not letting you work for these assholes."

"I second that." Nancy said "We don't know what these people want from you Dylan, this could seriously come back to kick you in the ass." Everyone in the room seemed to agree, giving him small nods and looks.

"Okay, then we'll just continue letting Murray sneak around, giving us theories we can't rely on, hacking into radio frequency that we can barely decipher." Dylan said, raising his tone. "Or, you let me do this, and we can actually start looking for Vecna! Before he shows up and someone else dies in this town."

The room grew quiet, not out of fear, but thought. "This can really benefit us." Dylan pleaded. "Let me do this."

Dylan met eyes with his brother, who still looked unconvinced, and downright fearful to what could possibly happen to his little brother.

"Compromise. C-O-M promise." Jane said to the group. Before turning to face Dylan. "You work far away from them. Most of the time."

Dylan nodded, understanding Jane. "Uhh yeah. Yes! I can work in the medical field. I'll be given the info we need, and I'll still see them, but most of the time I'll be at the hospital."

"With max." Lucas smiled

"And Vickie." Robin replied. As Dylan smiled "Yes with Max and Vickie."

"Who's Vickie?" Mike asked, narrowing his gaze. Dylan looked between him and Robin, not planning on outing that Vickie was Robins new girlfriend. "Shes...uh, a friend of mine." Robin replied "Friend of us."

"A friend? Why don't I know about her? Why don't we know about her?" Mike sputtered.

"Shes a new friend. And it's never really been brought up." Dylan said nervously glancing at Robin.

Before Mike could respond Hopper cut him off. "Alright. Medical. Thats not a bad idea. Good with you, Steve?"

Steve nodded, he knew he could never change Dylan's mind so there was no point in saying no. He also trusted Dylan to make the right choices. "Sounds better." Steve's fear of losing Dylan only heighten after that day in the upside down, he knew Dylan was hiding something from him. "Just don't do anything—"

"Reckless or unpredictable. I know." Dylan replied

"And stupid. Don't do anything stupid." Steve's tone was sharp.

"That'll be tough for him." Dustin joked as Dylan rolled his eyes, noticing how Jane laughed a little too hard.

Not everyone in the room was aware of Dylan's death. They knew about his blue flame. How it traveled physically through the hive mind. But they didn't know what had happened to achieve it. Only Jane, Will, Jonathan, and Mike knew. And they had promised not to talk about it.

Dylan's end of the deal was to not die again. He planned on keeping it.

"Where's the phone in this place?"

___________________________________

2 months later. HAWKINS HOSPITAL

"1.2.3.4.5.6.7 come on keep up kid! 11.12.13.14.15" a women counted, as she jotted some things down on her clipboard.

Dylan's palm was pressed on the soft vinyl plastic, his other hand clasping on top. He followed the women's counting, controlling his strength. Pressing down two inches into the fake chest, singing Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Want To Have Fun." In his head to hit the 100-120 BPM.

"Okay. Hold compressions. Sorry kid. The patients dead." Nurse Donna spoke, putting her clipboard down and picking up the CPR doll.

Dylan sighed, rolling his head back in exhaustion. "Im never getting this."

"If it makes you feel better, Ive seen some doctors who are worse. Don't beat yourself up." Donna comforted him, her Boston accent rolling off her tongue.

Nurse Donna was the charge nurse. A forty-five year old woman, with ash brown hair that she wore into a low bun. Not wearing the designated hat given to the attending, and wearing only the white dress given to them and not the striped apron. The first impression Dylan had of her was seeing her toss the apron aside and tell her coworker how she was paid to help people—not perform.

From that day on, Dylan liked her. And four days a week after school, he was taught by her, how to properly insert an IV, how to use the fancy machines, etc. Dylan had always had a small interest in how the human body works, and despite being tortured in a lab, Donna's presence had the ability to make him view the hospital differently.

He also spent a lot of his time visiting Max, checking up on her, giving Lucas updates on anything.

"Donna? Could we let Lucas—" Dylan began his question before the women cut him off

"They've closed visiting hours today." Donna shrugged. "You know that. I told you that. Nothing I can do."

"You're the boss. Who's stopping you." Dylan whined.

Donna sighed. Pondering to herself."Why do I let you get to me, kid?" She closed the closet full of supplies, holding a tray of medicine. "Give him a call. And then meet me by the west wing."

Dylan jumped with a smile, leaving the room as he made his way to the front desk. He looked around—seeing the stacks of paper and patients coming in. ThenHe saw the phone as he reached for it, before his hand was smacked by a pen. "Ow!" He winced

"And what do you think you're doing?" Doris spun her chair around to look at the boy.

"Calling a visitor." Dylan shrugged, a nervous look on his face.

"Nope. I told you. We're not accepting visitors today." She bit back, looking up at Dylan through her glasses.

"Come on, Doris." Dylan pleaded "Donna said yes."

"Well I don't care what Donna said, Dylan, I—Doris, say no." She retaliated

Dylan laughed "Lot of Ds." Doris didn't find it funny as Dylan's smile quickly fell. "Im sorry. I didn't mean it like that." She turned her chair back around to ignore the boy.

Dylan tapped his finger on the desk "Please. Doris. It's Friday, it's for my friend Lucas. Lucas Sinclair. You know him."

Doris paused for a moment, sighing before she pushed the phone towards Dylan. "Im doing this because Donna is my boss." Dylan smiled at Doris's words, quickly taking the phone and punching in Lucas's home phone. "Donna's grown too soft. She was a mean woman before you came along." Doris mumbled.

Dylan heard the phone ring before someone answered.

"Sinclair residence. Erica Sinclair speaking." The young girl answered.

"Erica! Hey!" Dylan greeted.

"Dylan, What's up?" Erica greeted "Actually, I know what you want, one sec."

The phone was silent before Dylan heard Erica scream for her brother, the two bantering before someone else spoke "Dylan! Hey man. Whats going on?" Lucas smiled through the phone.

"Nothing much. Im just at the hospital, and I wanted to tell you that you're welcome to come down." Dylan informed him.

"Really? I thought they weren't allowing visitors today." Lucas queried.

"We weren't. But...I told you. This job comes with privileges." Dylan answered.

He heard a small hum from Lucas. "Thanks man, I'll be there soon."

"Yep, just check in with." Dylan looked over at the older women "Our lovely, beautiful, amazing, receptionist Doris."

She hid a small smile, rolling her eyes. "What are you talking about? Doris sucks." Lucas laughed. As Dylan quickly coughed to cover it up.

"Bye Lucas. See you." Dylan smiled

"Yep. Bye." Lucas ended the call. As Dylan placed the phone back.

"Thank you again, Doris." Dylan smiled, as the woman swatted him away. He smirked, walked away from the desk and back to the west wing where Donna was.

Dylan spent most of his time just being a helper at the hospital, following the nurses around.

On other days when he was undercover— inside the military base, he was taught how to shoot a gun, how to properly hit someone, things that definitely weren't needed to be taught to a boy who turned seventeen, three weeks ago.

And with his access Dylan received many benefits to the group. Like throwing them off Jane's track by overheating expensive computer systems, or learning when they planned on opening the gate. At this point they had done around five crawls. Each time was semi-successful, making sure Hopper wasn't seen—making sure no one suspicious. But they haven't been able to locate Vecna.

"Help me with Mrs. Leroy." Donna said, as she saw Dylan walked up to her. Dylan wore a pair of blue scrubs, with a visitors badge saying DYLAN (DP) which after a month of being there Dylan found out DP stood for Donna's problem.

"But I can't legally do anything." Dylan responded. As he passed by Vickie in the hallways. "Hi Dylan!" She waved"Hey!" He greeted back.

"You can legally answer her personal questions while I actually do stuff. And also, who's stopping you?" Donna smiled. As she knocked on the wooden door before opening it. An old woman was lying on the bed watching the TV in her room. "Hello! Mrs. Leroy, now that you got a full stomach imma change your IV, then give you your meds, Okay?"

"Okay. Alright." The old woman croaked. Trying her best to sit up, as Dylan quickly went to her side "Let me help you Mrs. Leroy." He gently helped the woman, propping her bed higher up.

"Thank you. Such a nice man." The woman smiled "Handsome too. I bet the ladies are all over you. You have a girlfriend yet?" Mrs. Leroy had pneumonia, many people had respiratory infections at the moment, Dylan had breathe in enough spores in the upside down to be immune, but for older folk like Mrs. Leroy, they were in and out of the hospital. She also had beginning stages of Alzheimer's, she forgets little things like names and why she was sick, but she never forgets the fact that Dylan doesn't have a girlfriend.

Donna laughed "Leave the poor boy alone." She unhooked the empty bag of fluids. Fishing out another one.

"No Mrs. Leroy. I don't have a girlfriend yet, I'm sorry." Dylan took the empty bag Donna handed him, throwing it away in the designated box.

"Do you like anyone? At all?" Mrs. Leroy asked.

Dylan nervously smiled. "Uhh...i-i mean, who doesn't?" Micheal had worn his jacket again that day, Dylan saw as the boy walk out of his house with Will and Holly, Dylan's face was so red, both Holly and Will asked if he was okay.

Mrs. Leroy laughed "Amen to that."

"Something tells me you're not talking about Mr. Leroy." Donna teased

"I have a husband, but I also have eyes." The woman joked, giggling to herself. As she took the medicine with a sip of water.

Dylan chuckled at the joke, as Donna opened the door. Dylan quickly going to her side "I'll see you in about 10 minutes, alright?" Donna called out to the older women who waved her hand in acknowledgment.

The two begun walking down the hallways again, before Donna gave Dylan a little nudge of the elbow. "So, you do have your eyes on someone?" She teased. "Whats the name?"

As the two passed by a yellow poster with bolded letterings stating {BE A HERO. GIVE BLOOD} Dylan panicked, it's not like Micheal was a gender-neutral name. "Uhh m-m. Michelle! Michelle."

"Ohh Michelle, thats cute. She cute?" Donna asked

"Beautiful." Dylan replied truthfully. "H—Shes got this black hair that curls, it gets curlier when it's cold. Light freckles, dark freckles, all across her cheeks and nose. Sharp cheekbones. This one beauty mark, by her inner right eyebrow, one on her jaw. Shes tall, not taller than me though, And these big brown eyes-"

"Sounds like you got yourself a little fox. Good for you." Donna smiled. "How come you're not dating her? Commitment issues?"

"Uhh no. We've been best friends since kindergarten, she doesn't like me..like that." Dylan explained. Knowing that wasn't the only reason.

"Oh come on. You're tall, you're strong—I've seen you lift heavy equipment, and Mrs. Leroy's right, you're handsome." Donna walked into the break room, pouring herself a cup of coffee.

"You're too nice, Donna." Dylan shook his head.

"And! Most important of all, you're humble." Donna finished. "I guarantee she likes you back, whats she like?"

"Shes smart, loyal. When me and my friends played DnD she was our Paladin, a protector. She can be pretty optimistic, she is also awkward and goofy in the best way possible." Dylan leaned against the counter, crossing his arms

"Anything negative?" Donna pushed

"Negative? Well, sometimes she can be moody." Dylan smiled to himself "she has a habit of pacing when she's nervous, shes always late unless someone goes with her, and she really likes the butthole surfers for some odd reason." Dylan laughed.

Donna's gaze softened, seeing the young boys smile, the way his eyes grew gentler, the way his shoulders relaxed. She set the cup of coffee down, leaning against the counter next to Dylan."You really love Michelle? Don't you?"

"I do. Yes." Dylan confirmed, looking down at his feet. "I know thats not very convincing, I just turned 17. But..She...is the one that keeps me going, everyday."

"Let me tell you something. And it's gonna be something you remember. True love doesn't come often, kid. Don't let anyone in this world tell you who you should love, and when you should love them." Donna grew serious. Her words laced with wisdom.

Dylan straighten up, nodding "Yes ma'am." He spoke.

Donna nodded in return giving Dylan a pat on the back. "You doing anything tonight?" She askedLooking down at her watch.

"Yeah, actually, me and Michelle were gonna hang out." Dylan smiled.

Donna smirked "It's 6:00, you're off the hook kid. I'll see you next week. Drive safe."

"My shift doesn't end till 7:00." Dylan furrowed his brows, looking at his own watch.

"Your shift ends when I say it ends. It's a Friday, go have fun." Donna walked away before Dylan called out to her. "Thank you, Donna!"

The older women smiled "Don't thank me. Just tell her how you feel. Before she does it first." Donna laughed, walking away.

As Dylan walked outside to the parking lot. Reaching into his jacket pocket to find his keys, before finding them in his scrub pocket. The two metal keys clinked together, one was silver and the other was brass. One of the best qualities of being in the military youth program was getting access to equipment that got him places quicker. Like a car.

His shiny, black, 1985 Chevrolet k30–four door truck was placed towards the back of the parking lot. He used the brass key to open his door. Getting in, the new scent of a car still embedded into the seats. He used the silver key for the ignition, hearing the roar of his car.

It was given to him a month before he turned 17, between that time was Steve teaching him how to drive, after a few weeks he got the hang of it.

Dylan loved his bike, it got him through many grueling trips, but he loved his truck more. He liked having the windows opened, driving fast enough for the air that swept across his face to be clean.

Turning the radio on and hearing Robin present new songs, knowing that whatever background noise that accompanied her was from his brother. As the tunes from Phil Collin's hit single Sussusdio played, Dylan smiled, his one hand gripped to the steering wheel.

"Now I know that I'm too young, My life has just begun. Sussusudio oh oh ooh give me a chance, give me a sign~"

Dylan drove to the home he knew of, the house of Michelle. He had no intentions of confessing, but he was gonna appreciate the moments he had alone with him.

____________________________________

WHEELER RESIDENCE

The sun was beginning to set, the light shining through the windows and off on the dining room table. The Byers stayed with them for a short period of time before they ultimately ended up at Hoppers Cabin. Ted and Karen weren't aware of where they exactly went, but their mornings were less chaotic so they didn't care.

Mike pushed around the meatloaf on his plate. He wasn't hungry when he sat down for dinner and he especially wasn't hungry at the moment. Listening to his mother fail at starting conversations, or his father making another political comment.

"Holly, please put the book down and eat your food before it gets cold." Karen spoke.

"But it's just getting good." The girl replied, not taking her eyes off the page.

"Holly." Karen sternly replied, as Holly quickly put her copy of James and The Giant Peach on her seat. Picking up her fork. "Thank you." Karen smiled. "How's school Mike?"

"What?" Mike replied, snapping out of his daze, Nancy giving him a weird look.

"I asked how school was. Have you been keeping up with your classes?" She questioned.

"Yeah." Mike blankly responded. "Im allowed to go out later, right?"

"Go out?" Karen questioned "When?" Everyone at the table looked at Mike curiously. Even his own father had glanced up from his plate. "Theres a curfew Mike, the suns already beginning to set."

"It won't be that late. Dylan gets off from his shift at 7:00, from the hospital." Mike explained. Doing his best to convince his mother.

"I don't know Mike, theres a curfew—" Karen started, furrowing her brows as she took a sip of water.

"The curfew doesn't apply to Dylan...Ow!" Mike whined, as Nancy kicked him in the shin, her eyes warning him to be quiet.

"I mean, because of the hospital stuff. You won't have to worry, hes basically a doctor. So if I get hurt he can help me." Mike argued

"What do you plan on doing that could possibly get you hurt?" Karen retaliated, her voice cracking.

"Nothing! We were just gonna drive around, I'm just saying in a very unlikely scenario, where I do get hurt, I'll be okay!" Mike put on a smile, hoping to win her over.

His father cleared his throat."It's a Friday night Micheal, shouldn't you be doing something better with your time, other than hanging out with Dylan?" Ted Wheelers dryly brought up. Michael's eyes quickly snapped to his father—who he had forgotten was even there.

"Better with my time?" Mike asked

Ted looked up at his son, sitting in-front of him, chewing on some food. "Girls, Micheal."

"Ted—" Karen tried to cut him off but he persisted.

"You keep only hanging out with Dylan.....people are gonna start suspecting things." Ted lectured.

"Ted—!" Karen repeated

"It's the truth, Karen!" Ted replied

Micheal's stomach dropped, the small bites of food he had taken before were rising up in his throat. He felt sick, gross. Then he just felt angry. Nancy glanced over at her brother, her eyes softening.

"Dylan's coming over?" Holly spoke up, her voice timid, but still filled with excitement.

"Yeah, and then we're leaving." Mike replied, his tone sharp, keeping his eyes on his dad.

"Im trying to help you Micheal. This gay-plague thats been going around is affecting families." Ted said, taking another sip of his drink, not caring about how tense his words made dinner. "And in my opinion, I always thought Dylan was a bit funny."

"Dad!" Nancy yelled. looking over at Mike, who was now visibly upset. And Holly who seemed distraught from the yelling.

"Ted!" Karen yelled "That enough."

Holly leaned in closer to Nancy."What does that mean?" Holly whispered. Nancy pursed her lips "It's nothing Holly."

"No, Holly. It means when dad finally cares for his family, he likes to cherry-pick when." Mike said, as Nancy hid her smile, looking away from the two.

"Micheal, please." Karen pleaded. "Don't disrespect your father."

"What?! So—" Mike started his sentence before a ring from the front door, made them go silent. *DING*

Holly jumped up, ready to get out of this situation "I got it!" She quickly ran to the front door unlocking it with a crisp sound and swinging it open.

____________________________________

Dylan rang the doorbell, running his fingers through his hair, and checking his clothes for any stains. A few seconds passed before he saw Holly in-front of him. The girl wore her blond hair in two braids, a pastel flannel, with light washed jeans, and two yellow hair clips.

Her bright smile complimented her cute style, as she saw Dylan in his scrubs. "Dylan!" She yelled.

"Hey Hollyberry." Dylan smiled, the girl crashed into him, tightly wrapping her arms around his arm and torso. With his free arm he hugged her back. "We were just talking about you." She innocently smiled.

"Really?" Dylan questioned as he walked inside, seeing the tense look of everyone's faces, except for Karen who was attempting a polite smile. "Hello, Mrs Wheeler, Mr. Wheeler. Nancy."

"You're early, Dylan." Karen commented.

"Oh. Yeah, I was let off at 6:00..." Dylan awkwardly responded. Taking his eyes away from Karen and unto Mike, who appeared to have a cold look on his face.

"Would you like to join us? I can make you a plate." Karen proposed.

Before Dylan could reply, Mike stood up abruptly."No, we were just leaving." Mike spat. As he quickly walked past Dylan and outside, not even grabbing a jacket or anything as he left.

Dylan was left standing by the door, the tense air not leaving with Mike. "We'll be back....I'll get him back, before...?"

Karen looked at Ted, who simply took another sip of his drink, sighing and facing Dylan with another smile "Before 9:00. Please."

Dylan nodded. Giving a small wave to Holly, before closing the door.As he caught up with Mike walking across the grass, he was silent. Seeing Mike open his car door and jump in, as Dylan quickly made his way to the drivers seat.

As Mike sat on the soft seats of Dylan's car, smelling the faint scents of pine and hand sanitizer—he relaxed. He paid no mind to his house at the moment. He didn't want to think about it.

As Dylan closed the car door with a click, he glanced over at Mike, seeing the boys tense face. He pulled his car out of parking, and begun driving away from Mike's house.

Mike's eyes lingered on his front door before Dylan voice got his attention."Wanna talk about it?" Dylan asked

"No." Mike immediately replied, keeping his eyes on the dashboard.

Dylan nodded. Tapping his finger on the wheel for a moment. "Wanna shoot a gun?"

Mikes head snapped towards Dylan in surprise, his best friend's face was serious. He wasn't joking. Mike huffed, finally smiling "Hell yeah."

Dylan returned the smile, picking up his speed in the car. Mike rolled his window down, finally relaxing into the seat.

____________________________________

HAWKINS FIELD

The sky was now warm shades of orange and red, the sun not shining. Dylan and Mike stood on flat ground, trees surrounding them.

The fields grass were patches of gray, and some green that hadn't been affected yet. It seemed that during this time the usual spores in the air seemed to stop.

As birds from the trees fluttered into the air with every loud echoing bang, Dylan knew this wasn't the safest place to be shooting Dylan's 9mm pistol at a silhouette target on a small tree.

Dylan held the weapon in his hand, the thick cold metal pressed against Dylan's palm, he checked to see the safety was on before extending it to Mike, the handle pointed away from him.

Mike smiled, taking the pistol in his hands, looking at the weapon. "So how do I do this?"

"Alright, so hold the handle with your dominant hand. You're right." Dylan instructed as Mike listened to him, placing his finger on the trigger. "Woah, slow down. Move your finger away from the trigger."

Mike paused for a moment, lifting his finger away from the trigger, awkwardly holding it in place. "So I just shoot like this?" He asked.

"No. You...l-let me just.." Dylan placed his hand over Mike's, gently move his finger to rest on the body—above the trigger. "And then you'll take your left hand..." Dylan then moved behind Mike, directing Mike's left hand to grip over his right on the handle.

Micheal felt his face heat up, his fingers slightly shaking. "Loosen your elbow, it will balance you from the recoil." Dylan said.

Dylan noticed the way Mike grew quiet, and how he shook. "Don't be nervous." Dylan chuckled

"Im not nervous!" Mike coughed

"Well you're shaking like a leaf." Dylan smiled

"I am not! Just tell me how to aim." Mike ordered, taking in deep breaths to control how red he was.

"Just close one eye, and look at the top." Dylan reached forward, clicking the safety off. Mike could feel Dylan's breath on his neck, as goosebumps sprouted."Safety's off. Now just aim where you want to shoot, and—"

Mike aimed the gun to where he wanted to shoot, he felt his finger hesitate for a moment before placing it on the trigger, his body slightly tensing up, trying to prepare himself. Dylan watched with patience, looking at the target, and then looking at Mike.

*BANG* *BANG* *BANG*

The bullets flew through the air and landed on the blank white of the target. Mike was slightly pushed back, as Dylan was there to stabilize him.Mike smiled "I did it!"

Dylan looked at the target, see in his bullets which landed in the center of the silhouette chest, and then seeing Mike's far away from the target. "Well you didn't shoot me, so, good job." Dylan laughed.

Mike rolled his eyes, hiding his smile "Okay asshole, not everyone is military trained."

"Yeah, your sister's not. Shes a natural." Dylan quirked. Crossing his arms.

Mike scoffed, looking over at Dylan—he was smiling, the lighting of the sunset hitting his features perfectly. Mike had once again felt that flutter in his gut, and that guilt in his chest. He didn't even realize he had left his finger onto the trigger before

*BANG*

A small screech was heard along with a thud and the ruffle of grass.  Dylan and Mike both quickly looked to see a squirrel dead in the grass, the bullet completely taking a chunk out of its flesh, bits of it's blood had splattered from the branch it sat on and landed on the target.

"Shit!" Mike cursed. As he quickly switched the safety on. Dylan walked over to the area, his eyes on the dead animal

"Did I kill it?" Mike asked, appalled.

Dylan saw the bits of the creatures organs laid out in the grass. "Uhhhh. Maybe." Dylan heard Mike groan turning his head away from him. "If it makes you feel better...it was a good shot." Dylan smiled.

Mike couldn't help but laugh at the comment. He let the gun fall to his side, the barrel towards the ground. "You're an idiot."

Dylan walked back over to Mike "I wasn't the one that shot the squirrel." He looked to see the sun beginning to disappear past the trees, the warm light leaving. He noticed the slight shiver from Mike, his arms out in the open—exposed to the chilly wind.

Dylan took his jacket off without any hesitation. Leaving his bare arms out. Dylan didnt think much about his scars, he didn't have to. He was with Mike.

Mike saw the slightly defined muscle on Dylan, the scars complimenting the shape. "W-what are you doing? it's cold." Mike asked

Without a word, Dylan extended his jacket out to Mike. As he did it, he seemed to understand the weight of it. "We're gonna have to walk a bit, before we get to my truck....so."

Mike saw how Dylan's ears were red at the tips, his eyes darted to the ground. Mike questioned if Dylan was blushing, if he was nervous to do this. But there was no way. It was just cold. "Won't you be cold?" Mike asked.

"I can handle it." Dylan replied, gently pressing it into Mikes chest. Reaching down to take the gun. It was a quick switch, and Dylan had put the gun in his back waistband. "Come on. Let's try to get back before it's dark."

"What about the squirrel?" Mike asked, hesitantly putting the warm jacket on, staring at the dead animal.

In a second the carcass burst into a blue flame, turning into ash, and leaving a circle of burnt grass around it. The target with blood also disappeared, leaving nothing behind except bullet holes in the small tree."That solves it." Mike smiled "Forgot you could do that now."

Dylan felt the small trickle of blood in his nose, as he slightly leaned his head back to stop it. "Let's go."

___________________________________

Walking past the trees, the sun getting lower every minute. Despite the night approaching, and Dylan speeding up his steps—knowing at what could come up at night, he found himself stable around Mike.

"Any new patient stories?" Mike asked, his elbow bumping into Dylan's.

"Thankfully we've had a pretty quiet week. A guy came in with a broken finger. Donna let me move the bone back in place." Dylan explained. Using his own finger as a visual demonstration "Popping it back was easy, but the way his finger was bent was so gross."

Mike chuckled, a snap of twigs causing him to jump and look around. "What was that?"

"Im sure it's nothing. You're okay. You warm?" Dylan asked. Looking behind him as well, his concern not shown on his face.

"Yeah really warm. Thank you." Mike shook his head, fixing his hair. "Do you ever....?" Mike started, his breath slightly hitching, he wondered if Dylan felt like he was being watched 24/7.

Dylan's eyebrow raised, giving his attention to Mike, who seemed to grow quiet, mikes eyes darting towards his. "Ever?"

"Get tired of the hospital?" Mike asked.

Dylan saw through Mike, he knew that wasn't his question. "No, weirdly the hospital makes me feel normal. Im dealing with injuries that didn't come from another dimension..." Dylan joked. "And it's nice to be able to talk about things to the people around me. If I'm upset about a patient I can actually talk to Donna about it, I don't have to censor anything.

Mike nodded "That sounds.. great."

Dylan gave him a sympathetic smile. "But of course I can always talk about the truth, with other people who know the truth."

Mike seemed to catch what Dylan was trying to insinuate. "I know that." Mike tried his best to not look at Dylan, twiddling with his hands to calm his nerves. "Sometimes it's like because I know he's not gone, I feel like he's here. All the time. And I know we're looking for him in the upside down because he's not here but it still feels like he's here—and...I guess, I'm just scared." Mike confessed.

"Im scared too. But he won't hurt you." Dylan declared. "We're gonna find him, and this time me and Jane will kill him."

The two could see the truck, pulled to the side of the road and into the grass. Mike nodded, trying his best to feel everything was under control. He opened the passenger door and got in.

__________________________________

ON THE ROAD

The sun was no where to be seen. It was 8:10 pm. Dylan and Micheal still on the road, letting themselves be in comfortable silence along with a few comments. The headlights of the truck let the two see the spores that had begun again, flying by the truck.

Mike held his stomach as he laughed, Dylan laughing with him. The lighthearted feeling bouncing off the walls of a car. As the time inched closer to nine o'clock Mike felt more annoyed. He didn't want to go back home.

Especially after his fight with his dad, Mike wouldn't even label it a true fight. His dad just said something ignorant, stupid, and the worst part about it was he wasn't far from the truth. Mike felt himself chewing the inside of his cheek, the pain distracting him from the thoughts he had about his best friend.

"You actually believe Dustin and Jane have something going on?" Mike giggled

Dylan shook his head smiling "It sounds crazy but I know...they have something going on. Dustin at least has a crush on her."

"And you're okay with it?" Mike queried

"To be honest, at first I wasn't. But then I attended one of their tutoring sessions—and, well, he really cares for her. And I can tell she is very comfortable with him." Dylan explained "If he hurts her........except he wouldn't even think about hurting her......and technically she can take care of herself, so."

Micheal awkwardly fiddled with his hands again, before holding on to his seatbelt. "I know it's been a while now, but—"

"Don't apologize." Dylan blurted. "We've been through this, you're not together anymore." Dylan quickly changed the topic "It's 8:30 now, told your mom I was going to bring you back before 9:00."

"I don't want to go back right now, seeing him is going to piss me off again, and I just..." Mike sighed.

"What happened?" Dylan questioned, letting his car slightly slow down, checking his mirrors.

Mike was quiet for a moment"It's nothing." He clenched his jaw, his father's words playing back in his head.

"Didnt seem like nothing, when I arrived it seemed pretty intense—" Dylan started, before Mike cut him off"It was just a dumb disagreement. Nothing more."

"Dumb or not, it's not good to keep it to yourself." Dylan shrugged. "And Holly told me I was mentioned soo.."

"Holly lied. Okay? This doesn't concern you at all." Micheal bit back, his words harsher than he intended.

Dylan scoffed. "Mike—?"

"Why do you care so much?" Mike snapped.

"Why do I care?" Dylan questioned

"Yeah? Why do you care so goddamn much?!" Mike looked at Dylan whose eyes were still on the road.

Dylan slightly flinched back."When have I not cared?" Dylan retorted "Ive cared for Nancy, your mom, Holly, your entire family. And I care about you-"

"Well you don't have to, because you're not my fucking boyfriend." Mike spat. The silence that followed made Mike regret his words instantly, he knew he was wrong but he couldn't muster up any other words. He felt his breath quicken, and a burn behind his eyes.

Dylan grimaced, not letting himself feel sick over the anger and disgust in Mike's voice. "Is that what your dad was talking about?" Dylan looked towards the trees, not letting his voice crack."Some stupid bullshit about 'us'?" Dylan sighed, inhaling sharply against the pain in his chest. "You're my best friend Mike, y'know how people can be cruel, who cares what your dad thinks, you know what we are. We know what we are."

"But what if I don't !" Mike choked back a sob. "I don't know anything, and thats what makes all of this so fucking scary. Im so used to being made fun of I just learned how to tune it all out. I didn't need to second guess myself. I knew who I was." Mike paused. "For years I knew how I felt, or atleast I thought I knew how I felt." Mike rambled, his words fast—his voice shaking "But..e-ever since you d-died. I can't sleep without being afraid that one day I'm gonna wake up back in that van, and when I get home you aren't gonna be there. And that makes me feel so much and nothing at the same time—it's disgusting. I feel gross. I am gross." Mikes eyes burned, it was like word vomit, he couldn't stop.

"Mike? What...?" Dylan said

Mike ignored him"And Ive hurt you too, Ive treated you like shit, but you come back anyways and that's why—I'm in love with you—but you've been through so much and it's just another burden that I'm giving you, and I still feel like something's going to happen, i can feel it in my bones—and I just can't think! I-i—" Mike cried, the sharp warm tears fell past his cheekbones, he hadn't cried in so long it felt so unfamiliar.

He looked at Dylan that gazed back at him with a type of intensity he's never seen before. Dylan's hands gripped tightly to the steering wheel. "You love me?"

The silence was compounding, Mike stopped breathing as he stared back at Dylan. Shamefully he turned his head away, looking towards the road. In the shining headlights, Micheal saw something large lying in the middle of the road. "Dylan watch out!" He yelled

Dylan's head snapped towards the object, slamming his foot on the breaks as the truck jerked both of the forward with a screech, Dylan's arm hastily moved in-front of Mike, stopping him from hitting his head.

Smoke engulfed the air around them from the hot temperature of Dylan's tires. Micheal gripped on Dylan's arm, before letting go quickly. "Are you okay?" Dylan asked, as Micheal nodded in response. "Stay here." He instructed, unbuckling his seatbelt. And getting out.

Dylan heard his converse on the gravel of the road, seeing the dead carcass of a large white tailed deer. His truck was inches away from hitting it. Dylan knelt down near the deer, its fur looked almost gray, black vines poked from under thinner layers of skin, it's eyes appeared to be gone, bits of its skin missing, and each one of its ribs could be counted. The creature was over six feet in length, though because it was malnourished it seemed smaller.

Dylan heard Mike get out of the car"I told you to stay in the car."

Mike ignored him"What the hell happened to it."

Dylan observed the animal one more time "I don't know, but I don't think a human did this."

"It looks like a zombie." Mike commented "is it dead?"

Dylan nodded "Yeah, it's not breathing—"

The head of the animal shot up, it's antlers in the air. Mike and Dylan jumped back. As the deer thrashed its neck around screeching in pain.Dylan quickly grabbed the antlers of the deer, suprised as it took all of his strength to stop it from moving before he twisted its neck, the sound causing Dylan to feel sick.

The deer then laid motionless. Before a large amount of black bile and blood shot out of its mouth, spraying down the front of Dylan's scrubs. "Shit!" He cursed. "That's fucking disgusting." Dylan had gotten used to things spilling on his scrubs, but black ooze that smells like rotting flesh was new.

"Is it dead now?" Mike timidly asked.

Dylan glanced at Mike, his confessing ringing in his head, seeing the stained tears on his face. "Yeah. It's dead, just don't go near it."

"We need to show Hopper." Mike stated. He glanced around to see an increase in spores around them, like they were attracted to the dead animal.

Dylan nodded. "Can you open my trunk?" Mike made his way to the back of the truck, pulling down the wall of Dylan's trunk, before awkwardly standing to the side, as Dylan came around it dragging the dead animal by its antlers.

With a grunt Dylan lifted it up in the back of his truck, pushing its body all the way in. It's broken neck pressed by the back window. Dylan ran his fingers through his hair, stressed. He became aware of the liquid on his shirt, that had started to roll down to his pants. He quickly grabbed the collar and took it off—leaving a wife beater—and his shoulders exposed.

Mike's eyes moved from the carcass to the dirty shirt thrown against it. He traced it back, seeing Dylan's skin, the last time Mike saw him this exposed they were scrawny kids in middle school. Mikes breath hitched in surprise—Dylan's muscle increase was visible, and Mike knew and hated how red he was. He shook his head, there was an infected deer, which was most likely the effects of Vecna and he was focused on Dylan's upper body.

Dylan locked eyes with Mike, who he could now see had pink dusted across his cheeks. Mike quickly looked away, walking back to the passenger seat as Dylan closed the trunk door.

Im in love with you

Thats what Micheal had said to him. Micheal Wheeler. Straight Mike, dated Jane. Dylan could feel himself panicking. He was conflicted, what would this mean for them. If someone would have put a gun to the temple of Dylan's forehead and with a lie it would shoot him, 10 minutes ago Dylan believed if he said Mike loved him back he would be shot dead.

Dylan took a shaky breath, his ears burning. Micheal loved him back.

___________________________________

The route to Hoppers was darker, hidden. As Dylan drove by the trees he had no clue how he managed to follow Hopper with his bike. Dylan was thinking through the past—picking up signs—for years he built himself armor for rejection if at any point in his life Mike would ever find out he liked him. Then on an average day Mike confesses and Dylan almost crashed into a mutant deer.

The ride was silent, completely. Micheal had wiped away the tears on his cheeks and was now simply sitting in his shame. How could he just blurt something out like that? He barely knew what he was saying—his thoughts just spilling out. Dylan was uncomfortable, Micheal could see that, the way his shoulders were tense, how both hands were gripped to his wheel.  Micheal wished he could go back in time. Not make a fuss and just ask Dylan to drive him home. After his fight with his dad he should've just stayed home. But he didn't. And he just lost his best friend.

Dylan remembered how Mike would cling to him as a kid. How he would comfort him. He knew exactly why he loved Mike. And as Dylan came across the familiar path towards Hoppers cabin, he paled, he didn't say it back. "Mike—"

"Wait." Mike cut him off. "Just. Im, really sorry."

"But you don't—" Dylan tried to speak, hearing the sound of crickets chirping muffled by his tinted windows.

"No, I do. This changes everything. And I just ruined everything." Mike mumbled.

"No." Dylan sternly said

"Yes." Mike replied "Don't try to make me feel better, not right now. I know this is wrong. I don't want to make you uncomfortable."

Dylan pulled up to the cabin, stopping the truck, turning his entire body towards Mike. "Mike you haven't—-"

Mike looked down at his hands, his voice still shaking. Dylan felt an urge rise in his chest, he inhaled sharply. Mike shook his head. "Please Dyll—"

Dylan moved forward, his scrubs scratching against the seat of his car, as he gently took hold of Michael's face.Mike felt warm hands move swiftly to hold his jaw, soft thumbs placed on his cheekbones, as the other fingers pushed through his hair. Then he felt a soft kiss on his lips.

Dylan kissed Mike—closing his eyes—Mike's slightly chapped lips that lined perfectly with his own. As he pulled back, he saw Mike's suprise, his eyes widened. Dylan hesitantly let go of his face, his ears a crimson red. "Sorry." Dylan choked. "I love you too."

Dylan slightly licked his lips, his eyes darting away from Mike's for a second. Before Dylan had looked back, Mike grabbed his shoulders and harshly kissed him, not caring how their teeth awkwardly hit together.

Now it was Dylan's turn to be surprised, he quickly closed his eyes once again and kissed Micheal back. As Mike's lips parted—the kiss deepened.

He felt his blond curls being gripped at the back of his head, his hands trailed down Mike's back before they landed on his seat. Dylan leaned forward, pushing Mike back.

Dylan tasted something sweet and light, a euphoric feeling coursed through his veins—he heard soft sounds from the back of Mike's throat. Their lips moved together eagerly, their tongues brushing together. The burn in Dylan's lungs were more satisfying then any cigarette he had smoked in his life, this was a feeling he wanted to chase, and he didn't care if he died doing it.

*THUMP* *THUMP*

The two immediately separated, Dylan looked behind him to see Hoppers knuckle on his window, a rifle in hand. Dylan sighed in relief for having tinted windows installed in his truck. "Shit, Hopper."

He then looked to see Mikes flushed face and swollen lips, not doubting the idea of him looking similar. He quickly wrestled with the curls in the back of his head that Mike had messed with. He then looked to see Mike attempting to fix himself up as well.

*THUMP* *THUMP* *THUMP*"Dylan. Open the door kid." Hopper demanded.

Dylan took a deep breath, nervously glancing at Mike who shared his awkwardness. He opened the car door, the sound of crickets increasing, his feet hit the crinkled leaves as hefaced Hopper. Seeing the annoyed expression on Hopper's face, along with the rifle he had now slung over his shoulder. "Hey. Hopper."

"Wanna tell me what you're doing here?" Hopper asked, before his eyes landed on Mike sitting in the passenger seat. "What you're both, doing here?"

Dylan nodded, remembering why he came here in the first place. "Let me just show you..." Dylan walked around to his trunk, as Hopper followed him. The older man quickly saw the dead animal as he frowned.

"You hit a deer?" Hopper opened the back of the trunk himself, the sound of it creaking cause a pit to form in Dylan's stomach. "Smells horrible, why bring it to me?"

"It's because we came across it on the road. It wasn't exactly dead. But—" Dylan was cut off by Mike who had gotten out of the car

"Dylan snapped its neck." Mike explained, leaning against the car. Hopper looked between the two, taking out his flashlight and shining it over them, the two boys flinching back, before he shined it on the deer carcass.

The man observed the same qualities Dylan had seen. Gorged out eyes, black veins, etc. it had the qualities of something infected by the curse of Vecna. Hopper kept his posture strong, but this scared him.

"Jim?!" Joyce yelled out from the cabin, as she stepped down the wooden stairs, wrapping herself in a wool cardigan. "Micheal? Dylan? What are you boys doing out here?" Joyce asked, her voice panicked "it's late."

It wasn't long before the entire house followed her out, "What's happening?" Jonathan came behind his mother with the same curious expression. And then Will and Jane. "Dylan? Mike?" Will questioned. Jane quickly made her way over to Dylan, giving him a hug, her curly hair that was in a messy bun stuck out, brushing along his chin. "Something's wrong." She stated. Dylan nodded in response as he gave her a quick squeeze.

"Hopper? Could I use the phone?" Mike politely asked, as Hopper gave him a direct nod, before Mike made his way in the house.

As Mike left in the warm lighted cabin, something chilled in the air. Dylan anxiously awaited instructions from Hopper, from anyone.

____________________________________

Mike glanced through the kitchen window, seeing Dylan haul the deer unto the floor, where everyone surrounded it.

He punched his home number into the dial pad, before leaning anxiously playing with the cord as he listened to the ringing.

"Wheeler residence. Karen Wheeler speaking." Karen answered as Mike slightly relaxed hearing his mother's voice.

"Hey mom." Mike answered

"Mike? Why are you calling, honey? Is something wrong?" She panicked.

"No! No. Nothings wrong." Mike replied.

"Okay.....what's going on?" Karen spoke lowly.

Mike tapped the sole of his shoe on the floor, finding the right words. "I...I can't come home tonight. I can't see dad right now." Mike heard nothing at the other end. Other than the complicated look on his mother's face. "Mom?"

"Will you be staying at Dylan's?" She questioned. Her tone sounded as if she was also asking him another question. One that Mike feared.

"Yes. I will." Mike nodded into the phone, closing his eyes, not knowing what to expect. Would she yell? Tell him to come home?

"Thats...okay. I'll see you when you come back." Karen's voice was soft, Karen cared for her children more than herself. She wished nothing less but a happy life for them. "I love you Micheal. Y'know that, right?"

Mike held back a shaky breath, feeling the warm tears fill up in his eyes. "Yeah I know. I love you too."

__________________________________

Dylan rested his hands on his hip. The smell worsening. This deer seemed to be rotting faster than usual. He looked behind him to see Mike, placing the phone back on the wall. Leaning against it.

He saw as everyone was focused on the dead deer, making his way inside. The floorboards faintly creaked as Dylan walked. "Mike?"

Mike jumped. Seeing Dylan. "Hey, I can stay over at your place right?"

Dylan nodded "Yeah. Of course."  He lifted his hand to place a hand on Mike's shoulder, before he decided not too. Wanting to give Mike space.

Mike seemed to notice this. Looking Dylan in the eyes before looking at the scar on his tan chest, peeking past his shoulders. The scar was smooth but rough, dragging across him like streaks of light. "I didn't notice that in the dark. Is that from..?"

"From getting stabbed in the heart? Yep." Dylan pulled his shirt lower, giving Mike a better view of it, with a small quirk of his lips.

Micheal didn't reciprocate his smile. Not taking his eyes away from the scar. Dylan let his shirt go back to normal. He wondered if this was how him and Mikes relationship would be like. Dylan wondered if this was for the better.

"WILL!" Joyce shrieked as a scream from Williams lips stretched across the trees.

"DYLAN!" Jane screamed as Hopper joined her.

*BANG* *BANG*

Then a loud animalistic shriek came from outside, Dylan and Mike both turned towards the sound, quickly running towards it, stopping on the porch, Mike behind him.

Jane had her hand stretched out, the deer carcass propped up, its head dangling from its broken neck, though it was thrashing around as if it was alive. Jane grunted, blood falling down her nose. "It's really strong." She spoke.

"How the hell is that thing even moving?!" Jonathan yelled, seeing the black blood that fell from its mouth. "I thought you killed it?" He looked to Dylan

"He did! He broke its fucking neck!" Mike retaliated. Running towards Will who was on the floor.

"Im okay!" Will grunted. "It just hurts," he grimaced in pain.

Dylan looked to see, Joyce holding Will who was on the ground, holding his forearm. The burgundy liquid engraved in his palm, and rolling down his fingers.

"Back away!" Dylan yelled, as he stood by Jane, focusing his attention on the creature as its shrieks turned guttural, a bright blue flame erupting around it. The smell traveled around them, the burning flesh gave off a sour iron fragrance. Once the bones were left, Dylan pushed his hand forward as its ashes poured into the air.

The woods were once again quiet, even the crickets stopped talking. Dylan felt blood rolling down his neck. Not only was this thing strong, it was hard to burn. Watching as the ash fell unto the leaves, Will Byers ran inside with his mother, Jonathan close by as Jane began following too.

"What happened?" Dylan asked Hopper.

"I shouldn't have let them get close..." Hopper cursed. "It bit the crap out of Will." He heard Joyce call for him as he quickly made his way inside.

Dylan and Mike followed, as he saw Joyce trying to stop the bleeding with a towel. "How deep did it bite?" Dylan asked, as he gently took the towel from Joyce's hand. He looked to see, the deep puncture wounds of the deers teeth. "Okay. It doesn't look like it's bleeding horribly anymore."

"Do we need to get alcohol?" Jonathan asked

"We don't have any rubbing alcohol." Hopper replied

"Any should work right?" Joyce questioned

Dylan shook his head "No, we're not putting any alcohol on the bite. I don't think I can count that thing as a deer anymore but it doesn't look like any of that black blood mixed into the wound."He looked at Will. "You need to wash it for at least 5 minutes with soap."

Will nodded as he made his way to the bathroom, Joyce and Jane following him. Dylan then looked at Jonathan "Once you washed it completely apply some antibacterial ointment to it. Do you have any?"

"I think so." He sputtered "yes we do."

"Okay, apply that and bandage the wound." Dylan instructed "If it starts getting irritated and itchy you can go to the hospital, call me, I'll get you guys care immediately."Dylan paused, hearing the winces from Will in the bathroom, as water poured. "Maybe I'll stay. Just to watch him."

"We can both stay." Mike added, standing next to Dylan. Giving him a small nudge.

"No." Hopper quickly replied. "It's late, I don't know if any more of those things are out there, but you've run into enough tonight. Go home."

"But—" Mike protested before Hopper gave him a look that let the two teens know he wasn't messing around, and it especially wasn't open for discussion.

Jane walked out of the bathroom, holding the bloody towel and a wet one, wiping her own nose with it, before handing Dylan the wet one. Dylan took it"Thanks Jane." He wiped the dried blood around his nose.

"We'll be okay." She smiled "get some rest, you too Mike." Mike nodded with a smile.

Dylan looked around before nodding. "Alright, call me if anything changes." Dylan walked towards the door, gently pulling Mike with him, as the stubborn boy still seemed to be having an eye contest with Hopper.

"Goodnight boys." Hopper called out.

"Yeah night Hop." Mike sharply answered, not uttering another word until the cabin door  closed behind them. "He's such an asshole sometimes."

"Y'know how he was with El." Dylan said, walking down the steps to his truck. "Will and Jonathan are basically his sons now, he's grown protective over them too."

"I get that....but...still." Mike shrugged "it's not your fault." Mike could have cared less about how Hopper spoke to him, but he cared about how despite Dylan bringing the creature to them, and then protecting them, no one thanked him. "I mean you could've just left it on the road, but no you risked your safety bringing it here, and then when it started going nuts—biting Will, which was not your fault either by the way, you saved us."

Dylan's blinked perplexed "Uhh, t-thats a way to see it." He smiled softly. This time Mike returned the smile, taking the wet cloth from Dylan's hand, using it to wipe some blood Dylan missed on his upper lip. "I don't think you're appreciated enough."

Dylan didn't take his eyes off of Mike's look of concentration. Seeing the way Mikes curly hair that had stayed at his shoulders, his front hairs in need of a small trim. Dylan reached his arms around Mike, lifting his black hair into his hands, tying it into a small ponytail.

Dylan made sure he was as gentle as Mike was. Using the hair tie on his wrist. Mike let his hand drop to his side, relishing in the feeling of Dylan's hands brushing over his neck. "I have you. Thats enough." Dylan spoke, barely above a whisper.

"Let's try to get back before 10:40." Dylan gently spoke, trailing his hand along Mikes skin. Mike nodded.

The two got in the truck, the similar scent of the two not leaving, the warm seats only reminded of what they had done. This was going to be a long trip to his house.

____________________________________

HARRINGTON RESIDENCE

Steve worriedly walked around his kitchen. His eyes darting towards the phone, and then back towards his hands.

He knew that now Dylan was actually working he would be home late. And he couldn't just call him. It stressed Steve out. Not knowing where his brother was.

Steve would never say it to anyone, he knew it may weird some people out—but Dylan was his kid. He woke Dylan up for school, he made him food, when Dylan had lice he was the one that picked it out because Dylan didnt want to shave his head, when Dylan was sick he cared for him, and so many other moments Steve had held close to his heart. He had always been good with caring for many kids but thats because he had practice taking care of Dylan.

And once he found out about all the horrible things that had happened to his brother when he was a kid in that lab that kept Steve up at night. Robin had heard enough of his late night rambles.

Steve never found himself to be an anxious guy. But as every minute passed a new thought appeared of Dylan getting hurt. What if he crashed his car? What if Vecna hurt him somehow?

Steve shook his head, getting himself a glass of water to calm down. He remembered the look on Dylan's face when he told Steve to go, and leave him behind. In that moment Steve realized that no matter how hard he pushed, how many times he argued—he could never stop Dylan from getting hurt, never stop him from from doing something that could get him killed.

He then heard keys from the front door, along with some hushed sounds of two people talking. The front door smoothly opened, as he saw his brother, only wearing a tank top, his hair more messed up than usual, and Micheal Wheeler—who wore Dylan's jacket.

"Hey, Steve?" Dylan greeted "what are you doing up? It's late?"

"Waiting on you. I thought your shift ended at seven?" Steve replied.

"I got off a little early." Dylan shrugged, as Steve gave him a look of confusion, folding his arms as he gave Dylan a look. "I got off early, but I was hanging out with Mike."

Steve blinked "I can see that. Hey Mike."

Mike gave him a small smile "Hi Steve."

"Okay so, is he staying over?" Steve asked

"Yeah. He is." Dylan nodded "thats cool, right?" Dylan could see how Mike nervously squirmed, obviously not enjoying how awkward this situation was, and unaware of how supportive Steve was.

Steve looked between the two teens. All three of them awkwardly standing by the closed front door, and near the foot of the stairs. It wasn't long before Steve smiled brightly "Yes, yeah that's cool. Super cool. Super duper cool, awesome....but uh could I talk to you. Dylan?"

Dylan sighed, looking at Mike"My rooms—-"

"To the left. I know." Mike nodded, giving Steve another awkward smile before quickly walking up the stairs.

As the two heard the sound of Dylan's door closing, Steve physically jumped in excitement. His voice a loud whisper "Thats how the Harringtons do it man!" Steve lifted his hand for a high five, waiting patiently. Dylan rolled his eyes, but eventually returned the excitement giving his brother a high five back.

Steve patted his brother on the back "Okay. Im going to Robin's. The house is all yours."

Dylan's eyes widened "What the hell do I need the whole house for?"

Steve chuckled, winking "Right. Nothings gonna happen. I got it."

"Yes, nothing is happening. At all! He's sleeping over, thats it." Dylan clarified

"Sleeping. Gotcha. I didn't say anything! Im just gonna stay over at Robins, I'll be back in the morning." Steve yelled out as he grabbed his car keys and coat.

"Really not necessary, Steve." Dylan yelled back

Steve then came close to his brother, speaking very quietly. "Im proud of you."

"Thanks." Dylan said.

"Look in the bottom left drawer by my bed, I have a pack of condo—" Steve whispered, before Dylan turned around walking away from him, his face red.

"Holy shit Steve, Goodnight!" Dylan called out, feeling how red he was in the face.

Steve proudly glanced back at Dylan before leaving his house. He had a lot to tell Robin.

____________________________________

Mike glanced around the room he hadn't seen in a long time. It looked the same as the last time he was inside—just more mature. No comic books scattered around, no toys.

And the room looked neat, clean. Though Mike knew it was because Dylan barely lived in the house. He saw stacks of books on his wooden desk, Mike became aware of how dark it was in the room as he squinted to read the label, before turning the warm lamp on.

It was a medical textbook. It's hardcover green. Mike flipped through the pages, seeing written notes and annotation that Dylan had added. Mike smiled at the image of Dylan being hunched over—reading a medical textbook for hours—his eyebrow scrunched.

The door creaked open, as Mike heard Dylan walk in, his breath quickened in anticipation but he wasn't sure what he was waiting for. "Hey." Mike nervously greeted.

"Hey?" Dylan ran his hands through his hair, leaving his door slightly ajar. "Steve left."

"He left? Why?" Mike asked

"No reason." Dylan responded "If you open my drawer you can wear whatever. I have sweatpants, pajamas."

Mike nodded "Cool." He confidently opened the wooden drawer, peering through the items of clothing, ultimately landing on plaid pants, and he would simply keep the t-shirt he already had on.

Dylan placed his converse in the corner of his room, looking over to see Mike who held his favorite pants. Dylan smiled sweetly "My bathroom has everything you would need, take your time."

Mike cheerfully scoffed "So formal. What am I? A stranger?"

"You're something, Wheeler." Dylan retorted, with a soft look.

Mike beamed with amusement, before closing the bathroom door behind him, letting himself fully grasp the situation he was in.

Dylan quickly discarded his scrubs and tank top, putting a pair of sweatpants on. Dylan could hear the  faint sounds of his sink running as he felt his hands tremble. Whatever type of adrenaline he had before was gone, and Mike was at his house, he kissed Mike, Mike had actually kissed him back.

Dylan pinched himself, feeling the sharp pain didn't ease his anxiousness. It heightened it. Dylan had been dreaming of a time like this ever since he knew his feelings for Mike, and now that he was lucky enough to reach it, he was afraid to mess it up.

Or even worse he was afraid of what this meant for Mike. How much danger would Mike be in?

"I forgot how much I liked the structure of your sink." Mike came out, his hair slightly wet—as if he ran water through it, the hair tie around his wrist.

Dylan's visible concern washed away, remembering how he wore no shirt to sleep, seeing his scars."I'll get a shirt, I don't usually wear one to sleepbut—" 

Mike stopped him in his tracks, noticeably nervous. "Dyll? Can we talk about it?"

"Talk about what?" Dylan stupidly asked, trying to slip past him "I need my shirt—"

"I don't give a shit about your shirt, Dylan." Mike gripped his arm, tenderly holding it. Dylan shakily inhaled, Mike's touch grounding him.

"W-what....uhm. What do you want to talk about?" Dylan stumbled over his words, not looking Mike in his eyes.

"Don't do that. Please." Mike pleaded "I can't just go back to being just buddies, unless thats what you want...."

"I don't." Dylan replied

"Then what do you want?" Mike's lips trembled

Dylan faced Michael's blurry eyes, his pink lips quivering. "I want you...more than anything. For years now. I'm not having second thoughts about how I feel." Dylan took Mikes hand off his arm, loosely holding it

"Then whats wrong?" Mike questioned

"I don't want you getting hurt, or kill—" Dylan choked, he bit his tongue to contain himself but it was no use, the images of Mike dead stained into his memory. He cried.

Dylan's head ducked into Mike's neck, holding him for dear life. "He's shown me things, awful things. And I can't lose you Mike, I could enter live with myself if I did."

Mike didn't need to ask Dylan who was responsible for this. He knew. "Im here, and nothings going to change that." Mike comforted. "That assholes gonna mess with us no matter what we do," Mike pulled away, placing his cold hands on Dylan's cheeks, feeling the warm tears. "He can mess with us together."

Dylan leaned into his touch, supporting a small smile, he met Mikes eyes, once again taking the time to memorize any new detail. His eyes traced the faint scar on Mike's face, loving it as much as he loved the rest. "I love you."

Mike laughed tenderly, feeling a tear fall down his own cheek. "I love you too." These words fell off of Mikes tongue easier than anything he had ever said before, he didn't have to second guess himself.

Mike's eyes glanced down at Dylan's lips, looking back at his face once again with adoration before tenderly kissing him. Dylan kept the lightness of it, leaning in. The two smiled against each other's lips.

Dylan hadn't felt so much in so long, he could feel how quick his heart was, how his warmth blended with Mike's. As he held Mike closer than he ever believed he could, he swore to himself that he would keep Mike safe, he had too.

Even if he died doing it.