The bus rumbled down the quiet streets of Hawkins, the seats squeaking with every bump. The morning sun streamed through the windows, catching Mike’s tall frame as he slid into the seat next to Will.
Will fiddled with the straps of his backpack, cheeks already a little pink. He avoided looking directly at Mike, instead staring out the window at the houses passing by.
Mike leaned over slightly, careful not to crowd him. “Morning,” he whispered, voice soft.
“Morning,” Will replied, barely audible, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead.
For a few moments, neither said anything. The bus shook over a pothole, and Will’s hand accidentally brushed Mike’s. Both froze, eyes meeting quickly before Will looked away, smiling shyly.
Mike grinned, leaning back in his seat. “Still nervous?”
Will shrugged, cheeks heating. “Maybe a little.”
Mike chuckled quietly. “Me too.”
They sat like that for a while, shoulders almost touching. Mike pulled out a small notebook, scribbling something absentmindedly, while Will tried not to fidget too much. Every now and then, their knees bumped under the seat, and they both jumped a little before pretending nothing happened.
“Think anyone’s noticed?” Will asked quietly.
Mike shook his head, smirking. “Not yet. But if they do… it’s fine. We’re fine.”
Will exhaled slowly, finally letting his hand rest against Mike’s. Mike glanced down, gave a tiny squeeze, and Will’s heart skipped.
The bus went over another bump, and this time Mike caught Will’s shoulder to steady him. Will laughed, a little breathless, and muttered, “You’re taller than I realized.”
“Yeah,” Mike said with a small grin. “Advantage of being me.”
Will rolled his eyes, but didn’t pull away. Instead, he leaned a little closer, letting the quiet warmth settle between them. The rest of the ride passed in soft glances, quiet laughs, and the occasional accidental brush of hands — the kind of small, nervous touches that made being a new couple feel huge.
By the time the bus slowed near the school, both were smiling softly, hearts racing in that way that said this is just the beginning.