Archive of Our Own

Do you picture me like I picture you?

Am I in the frame from your point of view?

Do you feel the same? I'm too scared to say

Half of the things I do when I picture you

Mike Wheeler loved his job. He really did.

Even if he was the one fetching coffee, taking orders from people who barely looked at him, busting his ass to make a good impression for people who couldn’t give a shit. He should consider himself lucky, landing an internship in the city wasn’t easy, and landing one here? Practically unheard of.

He’d been hired on the spot by the most famous modeling agency in the city. They’d loved his photography, and told him he had an eye for it. Said one day he’d be famous, that he’d take mesmerizing photos the world would stop to look at. Interning here, they promised, would look incredible on his résumé.

But apparently, that day wasn’t today.

It had been months, and he still hadn’t been given a chance to show his work. Mike told himself to be patient. He could wait. He always did even if it meant burning himself on hot coffee cups balanced against his arm every single morning.

Still, there was one undeniable perk to the job.

Will Byers.

Professional model. Magazine covers, commercials, billboards. Everywhere Mike looked lately, Will’s face followed. Sparkling hazel eyes, sharp cheekbones, a presence that made rooms feel smaller and brighter all at once.

And somehow, impossibly, Mike got to see him in person. Every day.

Mike was a babbling mess whenever he was around Will. Whenever he got the chance to talk to him at all. Will wasn’t one of those superficial people who thought fame put him above basic conversation. If anything, he was warm, easy to talk to.

Which somehow made it worse.

Will was charming in a way that disarmed Mike completely, leaving him flustered every time he opened his mouth, words tangling before they ever had a chance to come out right.

Mike was always running around, catering to the people he worked for, but whenever he had a spare moment, he found himself stopping to watch whatever photoshoot was happening in front of him.

Today was no different.

He’d burned his forearm while juggling the case of coffee he’d been sent to pick up, handing cups out across the set. One of them was for Will, who was currently leaning back against the wall, looking absolutely ethereal.

Mike stopped in his tracks.

Completely and utterly mesmerized by the sight in front of him, the coffee stayed clenched in his hand, forgotten as he stood there and stared.

Will moved in front of the backdrop, posing easily as camera flashes went off around him. He was dressed in gray slacks and a black button-up that showed an inch of his chest, his hair tousled just right, like it had been styled to look effortless.

No wonder he was a professional model. 

He was beautiful.

Mike suddenly imagined running his fingers through his hair, maybe unbuttoning a couple buttons on his shirt.

He watched as the flashes continued, Will shifting through different poses, his expression serious and focused the entire time. And suddenly, painfully, Mike wished he was the one behind the camera telling Will where to stand, when to move, how incredible he looked.

Mike loved photography. It had been his passion since he was a kid. He used to wander around his house with a camera, snapping candid photos of his family. Then came photography classes at school, developing prints in darkrooms, even letting the school use his work for the yearbook.

He was grateful he’d landed this job in the city. He really was. But standing there now, he couldn’t help wishing he was taking the photos instead of fetching coffee especially when the model was Will Byers.

Mike took in a slow breath, his feet still glued to the floor. He couldn’t move. He just stood there, frozen, watching as Will was guided into a chair.

He needed to move. Needed to set the coffee down, tell someone it was for Will, and get on with his day.

Instead, he stayed exactly where he was.

Mike had seen Will during photoshoots before, but this time he really looked. Took in the way Will carried himself, the way he seemed to glow under the lights. No other model he’d seen compared. Not even close.

Will was so pretty it almost hurt. His skin looked luminous, his eyes bright as he flashed a few easy smiles for the camera. And then Will shifted in the chair, legs spreading out in front of him, hands resting casually on his thighs.

Mike let out a small gasp. Too loud.

Loud enough for the people around him to hear. Loud enough for Will Byers to hear.

Their eyes locked instantly. Mike froze, eyes widening as Will’s gaze stayed fixed on him steady, curious, unreadable. Will didn’t move, still seated in front of the backdrop, legs sprawled, hands resting on his upper thighs like he knew exactly what he was doing.

Mike stood there, glued to the floor, the coffee still clenched in his hand, heat seeping into his palm.

And then he did the only thing he could think to do. “Coffee?” He blurted, extending his arm toward Will, panic buzzing through him.

Will cocked an eyebrow, amusement flickering across his face. Then that charming smile spread wider, his eyes never leaving Mike’s.

They flicked away only briefly, landing on the photographer, who looked furious. The photographer shot Mike a glare sharp enough to make it feel like he wanted to strangle him on the spot.

Mike’s heart hammered in his chest, his gaze glued to Will’s as he gulped nervously, arm still extended, coffee clenched in his hand.

“Whatever, kid. Take five.” The photographer snapped, rolling his eyes as if Mike had personally ruined his entire day.

Mike swallowed hard. He really hoped he wasn’t about to get fired. He’d probably fucked up big time.

Then Will stood. He rose from the chair and started walking toward Mike, unhurried, calm. The photographer muttered under his breath, pulling a pack of cigarettes from his pocket as he headed toward the exit.

Mike could feel his heartbeat slamming against his ribcage as Will approached him, now standing in front of him. He’d said maybe four words to Will in his entire life “here is your coffee” and even those had felt like too much.

He was always too nervous. Or too busy running around, making sure everyone else was taken care of.

But never too busy to stop and watch Will during a photoshoot. Never too busy to notice how naturally beautiful he was. How he seemed made for this, born to stand in front of a camera, moving effortlessly beneath the flashing lights.

Mike stood there, still glued to the floor.

Will reached out and took the coffee that was still clutched in Mike’s hand, their fingers brushing just barely together. The contact sent a shudder down Mike’s spine, sparks of electricity bolting through his veins.

“Thanks,” Will said simply. He lifted the cup to his lips, taking a sip before his tongue swept over his bottom lip, catching the stray drop of coffee that had spilled there. Mike watched the entire thing, helpless, unable to tear his eyes away.

“Michael Wheeler, right?”

Mike’s eyes widened. How did he know his name? They’d barely spoken, hardly interacted at all. He gulped, nodding slowly, cheeks already flushing. “Mike. Y-yeah, that’s me,” he said shyly. “How’d you know?”

Will shrugged casually, taking another sip of his coffee. God, even that looked unfairly beautiful. How did he make everything look so effortless?

“I’m very… observant,” Will said, flashing him a grin. “And a face like that? Kinda hard to forget. Even with a name.”

He was flirting. Actually flirting with him.

Mike’s cheeks burned, the heat creeping down his neck as a nervous laugh slipped past his lips. His gaze flicked back to Will just in time to catch his tongue tracing along his bottom lip again.

He tried not to stare, really tried, but it was hard when Will Byers, professional model and possibly the most gorgeous person alive, was standing right in front of him.

The small strip of skin visible where Will’s shirt was unbuttoned caught Mike’s attention, and suddenly all he could think about was pressing his lips there, against his warm, smooth skin.

“So, uh… nice photoshoot,” Mike managed, chewing on his bottom lip.

Will let out a soft laugh, shrugging like it was nothing. “It’s second nature now. I used to get nervous, but I could do this shit in my sleep.”

His confidence was overwhelming, practically spilling out of him. Will flashed Mike another grin, his eyes never leaving his.

“Oh, yeah. Um. Seems like it,” Mike stammered, cheeks burning.

Will cocked an eyebrow, a slow smirk tugging at his lips. “Oh yeah?” he said lightly. “Have you been, I don’t know… watching me?”

Mike’s breath hitched, his heart racing as his gaze stayed locked on Will’s. He’d always been easy to fluster especially when it came to flirting. He didn’t really know how to do it. Didn’t know how to talk to someone he liked, let alone someone of the same gender.

He’d known his sexuality from a young age, but that hadn’t made things easier. If anything, it only made moments like this more terrifying.

Because he’d never, in his wildest dreams, imagined he’d be standing here, talking to someone as breathtaking as Will Byers.

“So what if I was?” Mike said quietly. He glanced down at the floor for a moment before looking back up through his lashes, nerves written all over him.

Will’s lips curved into a small smirk. He shrugged like it was nothing, then took a step closer. “Then I’d tell you,” he said lightly, “that I’ve been doing the same thing.”

Mike’s eyes widened. He’d been watching him?

He wasn’t sure whether to feel embarrassed or flattered. Mike was always running around, doing his job, taking care of everyone else because that was what he was supposed to do. Even though all he really wanted was to be behind a camera.

“Y-you’ve… watched me?” Mike asked, disbelief creeping into his voice.

Will nodded, stepping closer again. He leaned in, lips hovering near Mike’s ear. “Yeah,” he murmured. “I’ve seen how hard you work around here.” His breath was warm against Mike’s skin, sending a shiver straight down his spine. “And I’ve seen you taking photos when you thought no one was around.”

Mike’s breath caught.

“I’m pretty sure,” Will continued softly, “you’d like to be the one taking pictures of me. Isn’t that right, Wheeler?”

Mike felt like he couldn’t breathe. He stood there, frozen, arms hanging uselessly at his sides, heart pounding so hard it felt like it might break free of his chest. He swallowed, then nodded, taking a shaky breath.

“Yeah,” he admitted. “I do. Of course I do.”

He could picture it, being the photographer, guiding Will’s poses, telling him how good he looked. Photography was his passion, the way he created art.

And God, he wanted to share that with Will.

Will’s lips lingered near Mike’s ear until they both became startled and pulled back at the sound of the photographer’s voice behind them.

“Break’s over, kid. Come on.”

Mike let out a quiet, disappointed sigh, already missing the warmth of Will’s body so close to his. He’d never felt this flustered in his life. The realization hit him all at once: Will had been checking him out without Mike even realizing it, when that’s all Mike had been doing for weeks.

He’d always assumed Will never noticed him. Not really. Will was usually lost in his own world, focused on the camera, on posing, on doing his job. Mike had never thought he’d even register as more than the guy handing him coffee.

Then Will looked back at him, a small smirk tugging at his lips, coffee still in hand.

“After my shoot’s done and you’re finished with your shift,” Will said casually, “do you want to come over to my place? I’d love to see some of your work.”

Mike’s heart kicked into overdrive, pounding so loudly he was sure Will could hear it. Adrenaline buzzed through him, lighting him up from the inside out. He nodded without hesitation.

“Yes,” he said quickly. “Of course. I’d like that.”

Will grinned, holding Mike’s gaze a second longer with those gorgeous, sparkling hazel eyes. “Meet me outside in a bit, yeah? I’ll be waiting.”

And just like that, Will turned on his heel, setting his coffee down on the nearest table before heading back toward the set.

Mike didn’t move. He was about to go to Will Byers’ apartment. Holy shit.

Ten minutes ago, he hadn’t even thought Will knew he existed and now he was invited to his apartment.

Time couldn’t move fast enough.

─── ⋆⋅ ☾⋅⋆ ───

Two hours later, Mike was exhausted. The set had already cleared out, everyone gone for the night, so he headed outside to wait for Will.

He took a deep breath, running a hand through his messy curls as he stopped beside the building. The air was chilly, though not as cold as it had been days prior. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a pack of cigarettes and a lighter, flicking it open before bringing the cigarette to his lips.

He inhaled slowly, the smoke filling his lungs, then exhaled from his chest, watching the haze drift lazily into the night.

He didn’t smoke often, but when he did, it always calmed him instantly.

Mike leaned back against the brick wall, cigarette glowing between his fingers, and took another drag.

“Pretty and a smoker?”

The familiar voice made him jump. He pushed off the wall, turning just in time to come face to face with Will who somehow looked even more gorgeous out here than he had inside, if that was even possible.

He had on a letterman jacket over his buttoned up shirt, his hair even more tousled than before. Mike couldn’t stop staring at how insanely good he looked.

“Well,” Will added with a grin, “would you look at that?”

Mike held the cigarette between his fingers, his heart already hammering against his ribcage.

“Hey, Will,” he said, flashing what he hoped was a steady smile. He tried not to let his nerves show, tried not to think too hard about the night ahead with someone as gorgeous as Will Byers. He felt really lucky to be in this moment. “How was the rest of your shoot?”

Will shrugged casually, eyes fixed on Mike as he took another drag of the cigarette. “It was alright. Got some good shots.” He paused. “I was a little distracted, though.”

Mike’s brows furrowed. “Oh yeah? Why’s that?”

Will answered with a cheeky grin, stepping closer until they were standing directly in front of each other. “You know why.”

Before Mike could respond, Will reached out and took the cigarette from Mike’s fingers. Their hands brushed, sending a shiver straight down Mike’s spine. Will brought it to his lips, inhaled, then exhaled slowly, smoke curling into the air between them.

Oh. So Will smoked too. And he’d just taken a drag of his cigarette.

Mike’s heart was beating embarrassingly hard, and he had no idea why, except that being this close to Will made him nervous in the best possible way.

“Thanks,” Will said, taking one more hit before handing the cigarette back. “I hope you’re hungry. I was thinking we could grab some takeout and head back to my place. I live, like, three blocks from here.” He glanced around the street before looking back at Mike. “We could walk… or take your car.”

Mike shrugged, taking one last drag before bending down to stub the cigarette out beneath his shoe. “Let me, uh, drive you,” he said, a shy smile tugging at his lips. “Least I can do if you’re getting us takeout.”

Will flashed him a wide grin. “Who said I was paying?” He cocked an eyebrow before tipping his head back with a laugh. “Kidding. My treat.”

Mike flashed him a shy smile, a soft laugh leaving his lips. Will had the most beautiful laugh. God, how was everything about him so perfect? 

They headed over to Mike’s car, his heart already racing in his chest. He was nervous, but excited. He’d never gone back to another guy’s apartment before.

Will slid into the passenger seat and flashed him a grin. “Ready whenever you are.”

Mike glanced over at him, cheeks warm, then nodded. “Yeah,” he said softly. “Yeah, okay.”

Mike kept both hands on the steering wheel, knuckles tight as he focused on the road ahead. The radio played softly in the background, some song he didn’t recognize, but it filled the silence just enough. Will gave him directions on where to go and luckily it wasn’t far at all.

He could feel Will beside him, not touching, not quite, but close enough that Mike was hyperaware of every shift of his body, every quiet breath.

“Are you always this quiet?” Will asked gently, glancing over at him.

Mike huffed out a nervous breath. “Only when I’m trying not to crash my car.”

That earned a soft laugh. “I’m glad you agreed to come over,” Will said after a moment, his voice quieter now. “I was hoping you would.”

Mike swallowed, heart thudding. “Yeah,” he said, risking a glance over at him. Will was already looking at him which made his cheeks flush even more. “Me too.”

The car slowed as Mike pulled up to the curb outside Will’s apartment building, his stomach flipping as he parked.

Mike glanced over at Will, who was already staring at him. There was a gleam in his eye, his hair tousled in a way that made Mike ache to reach over and run his fingers through it.

“Well,” Will said lightly, breaking the moment, “this is me. Come on.” He flashed Mike a grin and climbed out of the car.

Mike followed, shutting the door behind him and trailing Will up to the apartment building. His nerves buzzed beneath his skin.

He had to admit he was really nervous. He never did things like this, was always too shy to talk to a guy he found attractive. But with Will, somehow, it felt effortless.

They walked through the lobby toward the elevator, shoulders brushing the entire time. Each accidental touch sent a tingle across Mike’s skin. When the doors slid shut behind them, Will turned and looked directly at him, making Mike’s cheeks flush. He couldn’t help but return a shy smile.

The tension between them was undeniable. If Mike were more confident, he’d lean in and press his lips to Will’s right there in the elevator.

But he didn’t. He hardly even knew Will, though he wanted to. Wanted to know everything. What he did before and after a shoot. What made him choose modeling. Whether this was something he’d always dreamed of, or something that had simply happened to him.

His thoughts drifted, traitorous and unhelpful. He couldn’t stop staring, and he knew he was being obvious. His gaze slipped from Will’s eyes, to his lips, to the small strip of skin exposed by the unbuttoned shirt beneath his jacket.

Did Will even realize how good he looked? Or was he fully aware and enjoying the effect it was having?

Mike’s heart sped up as their eyes met again. There was something there, something warm and curious, and it made his stomach flutter with excitement.

The elevator dinged, and Mike startled, snapping out of his thoughts. He followed Will down the hall, standing just behind him as he unlocked the door. Will stepped aside, holding it open for Mike. “After you.”

Mike stepped inside, glancing around. The apartment felt unmistakably Will. Art lining the walls, soft lighting, an easy kind of warmth that made his nerves spike all over again. 

Will closed the door behind them, slipping off his shoes and shrugging out of his jacket, draping it over the chair beside the couch. He turned back to Mike, a grin tugging at his lips.

“I’m just going to order the takeout. Thai food okay?”

Mike nodded, a little breathless, cheeks still flushed. He blamed it on the lingering chill from outside rather than the way his heart was still racing. “Of course. That sounds great. Thanks, Will.”

“Perfect. Make yourself at home.” Will flashed him that charming smile before turning on his heel and heading down the hall.

Mike swallowed and slipped off his shoes by the door, his eyes wandering around the apartment. The art lining the walls caught his attention immediately, beautiful pieces, thoughtfully placed. He wondered if Will genuinely loved art or if he’d just needed something to fill the empty space.

The apartment itself was small, but perfect for one person. Cozy. Comfortable. A lot nicer than the grungy place he shared with Lucas.

He drifted into the living room, pausing in front of the bookshelf filled with worn paperbacks and neatly stacked hardcovers. Picture frames sat along the top shelf. Mike leaned closer, squinting to get a better look.

One photo showed a teenager Will standing beside an older man who looked a lot like him, an arm slung warmly around Will’s shoulders in a cap and gown. Both of them were smiling, happiness written plainly across their faces. He assumed that was probably Will’s older brother. Mike smiled to himself before moving to the next frame which was Will as a kid, wrapped tightly around someone Mike assumed was his mother.

His chest tightened in the best way. Standing here, surrounded by these pieces of Will’s life, it felt like he was being quietly let into his world, who he was, where he came from, all the things that made him who he was.

He didn’t even hear the footsteps before the voice behind him made him jump.

“Ah. You found the picture frames.”

Mike spun around, cheeks flushing like he’d been caught doing something wrong. “I-I’m sorry. They just caught my eye, I promise I didn’t-” He faltered, words tangling as his nerves took over.

Will cut him off with a soft, warm laugh. He stepped closer, stopping right in front of Mike, so close Mike could feel the heat radiating from him.

“You’re fine, Mike,” Will said gently. “I’m actually honored that it was the first thing you noticed.”

He flashed him a wide grin, and just like that, Mike felt his body relax. He nodded, cheeks still burning. “I’m still sorry.”

Will reached out, his hand settling on Mike’s forearm, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Mike jolted slightly at the touch, his gaze dropping to Will’s hand, heart hammering in his chest. His face felt impossibly warm. Being this close to Will, being touched by him was driving him insane in the absolute best way.

“Don’t be,” Will murmured, squeezing his arm again, his hand lingering. “That one’s my brother, Jonathan, and me after my high school graduation. He’s been a huge support in my life.”

There was nothing but sincerity in his voice, pure affection when he spoke about him.

“And this is my mom, Joyce,” Will continued, gesturing to the other frame. “I think I was in second grade? She’s always been a little overprotective, but she means well. They’ve both been really supportive of my career… of my life, honestly.”

Mike smiled as he listened, warmth blooming in his chest. Hearing the love in Will’s voice, how openly he spoke about his family made something settle gently inside him.

It was impossible not to admire how deeply he cared about his family.

“That’s really beautiful, Will,” Mike said genuinely, a warm smile lingering on his lips. “It sounds like you have a great support system.”

“What about you, Wheeler?” Will asked. His hand stayed resting on Mike’s forearm, the contact making Mike’s skin tingle. “Tell me about your family.”

Mike let out a soft laugh, his gaze slipping away from Will’s as he looked back at the picture frames. He took a steady breath. “They’re great, don’t get me wrong.” He hesitated. “I’m the middle child. The only boy. I always felt like I had to be the strong one, you know?”

He chewed lightly on his bottom lip before looking back at Will, who was listening intently, like every word mattered.

“I have an older sister, Nancy, and my youngest sister, Holly,” Mike continued. “My parents don’t really get along. My mom can’t stand my dad and honestly, I don’t blame her. All he does is sit in front of the TV or read the newspaper.” He exhaled softly. “He’s kind of an asshole.”

His cheeks warmed as he added, quieter now, “He doesn’t… know that I like boys.”

For a moment, Mike worried he’d said too much. But something about the way Will was looking at him so open, patient, kind, made him feel like maybe it was okay.

Like Will was someone he could talk to.

Will nodded slowly, a small smile lingering on his lips as his hand moved from Mike’s forearm to his shoulder, fingers grazing over the fabric of his jacket.

“I get it, Mike,” Will said softly. “I didn’t come out until high school, but people kind of assumed, I guess.” He let out a steady breath. “My family and friends were supportive, but classmates… not so much. There was a lot of bullying.” His voice dipped slightly. “But I pushed through it.”

He exhaled shakily, his eyes never leaving Mike’s.

Mike’s heart ached as he listened. He understood in a way that went deeper than words. Not just because Will liked boys too, but because he knew what it felt like to carry something so personal and fragile, hoping the world wouldn’t crush it.

“But look at you now,” Mike said softly. “You pushed through it. You’re kind, and confident, and doing what you love.” He hesitated, cheeks warming. “Being gorgeous is just… a bonus.”

Will cocked his eyebrow, his fingers toying with the hem of Mike’s jacket, a smug smile tugging at his lips. “Wheeler’s a flirt, isn’t he?”

Mike’s cheeks flushed, but he held Will’s gaze. “I don’t usually flirt,” he admitted. “You just, um, make it easy, I guess.”

Will’s thumb brushed absently against the seam of Mike’s jacket, a grounding, almost unconscious touch. “That’s cute,” he murmured with a soft chuckle, his fingers drifting slowly down Mike’s arm. “You’re cute.”

Mike let out a breathy laugh, shaking his head slightly. “You can’t just say things like that,” he said quietly.

Will smiled, softer now, his hand pausing against Mike’s arm. “Why not?”

“Because,” Mike hesitated, then met Will’s eyes again, “I’m not very good at pretending it doesn’t affect me.”

“I don’t want you to pretend,” Will said softly, leaning in closer to linger his lips against Mike’s ear. “I want you to be exactly like this.”

A shiver ran down Mike’s spine as Will’s warm breath brushed his ear. They were closer now, bodies nearly pressed together. “You can be as real as you want with me,” Will whispered.

Mike’s eyes fluttered shut, another shiver rolling through him at the softness in his voice.

Will pulled away from Mike’s ear, and when Mike opened his eyes, Will was already watching him with those sparkling hazel eyes. A hint of desire lingered in his gaze, a small smile tugging at his lips.

Mike’s heart hammered in his chest, his breath hitching as their bodies stayed pressed together. Will’s hand slid slowly down Mike’s arm, the touch deliberate.

Mike’s gaze dropped to Will’s lips, soft, pink, and dangerously close. Close enough that he could feel Will inch nearer, heat radiating between them.

Their lips hovered just shy of touching before they both jumped, startled by the sound of someone knocking on the door.

“Shit,” Will muttered under his breath, a frustrated groan escaping him. “I’ll be right back.”

Mike nodded as Will pulled away, stepping toward the front door. Mike stood still, his body still buzzing from the warmth of Will pressed against him. He already missed the way Will fit so naturally against his chest, the way his body felt like it belonged there.

When Will returned, he was carrying the takeout bag with a smile on his face. “Would you maybe want to head up to the roof with me to eat? There’s a deck up there with a view of the city.”

Mike’s heart slammed against his rib cage, his stomach fluttering with excitement. He’d never felt this charged around someone before. “Of course.”

Will flashed him a grin, then walked to the counter and grabbed a bottle of champagne and two glasses. He handed Mike the takeout bag, grabbed his jacket from the chair, and motioned for him to follow. “Come on.

Mike took the bag, nodding once more, and followed Will out of the apartment toward the rooftop exit. He kept his messenger bag pulled securely across his chest, his camera safely tucked inside.

Adrenaline coursed through him as he followed Will up the stairs. He’d never done anything like this before. The excitement buzzed under his skin, electric and intoxicating, and he already knew he didn’t want the night to end.

When Will pushed open the rooftop door, Mike stepped out and immediately froze.

The city stretched out around them, glowing and endless, lights shimmering against the dark sky. It was beautiful from up here, overwhelming in the best way.

Mike felt a small surge of gratitude knowing his camera was right there, ready to capture the skyline and maybe Will, too.

Though really, Will was the most beautiful thing up here anyway.

“Wow,” Mike breathed, his eyes sweeping over the view before drifting back to Will. “This is beautiful.”

Will flashed him a grin. “Why do you think I wanted to bring you out here?”

Mike smiled in return, watching as Will set the champagne and glasses on the table. He placed the takeout bag beside them, his attention never fully leaving Will.

God, he looked unreal in this light. The sun was sinking behind him, warm hues spilling across the skyline and outlining Will in gold, like the city itself had softened just for him.

He looked absolutely ethereal.

Mike couldn’t stop staring, and he knew he was being obvious when Will cleared his throat. Mike startled out of his thoughts, cheeks warming as he realized he’d been caught.

“Uh, so,” Mike said, gesturing toward the table, desperate to ground himself. “Champagne?” 

Will’s lips twitched, amusement dancing in his eyes. “Is that your way of changing the subject?”

Mike rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed but smiling with his cheeks bright red. “Maybe.”

Will chuckled softly and reached for the bottle. “Relax. I don’t mind being looked at.” Will grinned as he opened up the bottle and began to pour some into each glass before opening up the bag with the Thai food inside and placing the trays down on the table.

Mike sat across from him at the table, and when Will took the seat in front of him, all Mike could focus on was the glow of the setting sun reflecting off his skin.

God. He really was beautiful.

Before touching his food, an idea sparked. Mike reached into his messenger bag and pulled out his camera, glancing back up at Will with a shy smile. “Can I?” he asked, lifting the camera slightly as he chewed on his bottom lip.

Will took a sip of his champagne before flashing Mike a wide grin. “Hell yeah, Wheeler. Let’s see those photography skills.”

Mike swallowed, nerves fluttering in his chest. He’d never photographed someone this beautiful before, let alone a professional model. His hand shook slightly, but he ignored it, lifting his glass with his free hand to take a steady sip of champagne before looking back at Will.

Will sat there, relaxed and effortless, the city lights and fading sunlight framing him perfectly.

Mike raised the camera, eye to the viewfinder. Will’s expression softened the moment the lens was on him, less polished, more real. This felt different. Different from the way Will usually posed during photoshoots, where everything was rehearsed and carefully planned. Here, there was no direction, no pressure. Just him, relaxed and unguarded.

And somehow, that made him even more beautiful.

The shutter clicked. The sound echoed softly between them, and something settled deep in Mike’s chest.

This felt natural. This was where he was meant to be.

He took a few more photos: Will relaxed in his chair, champagne glass in hand, the warm glow of the sunset spilling over him. Effortlessly beautiful. Mike found himself lingering a second longer before each shot, unable to help but stare.

Will smiled in every frame, even though he was usually serious during shoots. Somehow, with Mike behind the camera, the smiles came easily.

Eventually, Mike lowered the camera and tucked it back into his bag so they could eat. He felt proud of the photos he’d taken and even more excited to look at them later.

Dinner went easily as they finished off the champagne and ate the rest of their meal. They talked about family, their careers, and even past relationships. Mike was surprised to learn that Will hadn’t been in a relationship for two years.

The alcohol buzzed gently through his bloodstream. He didn’t drink much and he was definitely a lightweight. But sitting there with Will, watching the sky fade from sunset into night, something settled into place.

Mike realized, quietly and unmistakably, that he’d never been happier.

They stood from the table to clean up, tossing the empty champagne bottle and takeout containers into the trash. Will lingered close, close enough that the space between them all but disappeared.

He placed a hand on Mike’s shoulder, letting it trail slowly down his arm before reaching for his hand. Mike’s breath hitched as Will gently took his fingers, toying with them for a moment before weaving them together. A soft smile curved on Will’s lips, his eyes never leaving Mike’s.

“This was really nice,” Will said quietly. “Thanks for coming up here with me.”

Mike nodded, his heartbeat quickening, whether from the alcohol or the way Will’s hand fit so perfectly in his, he wasn’t sure. “Me too,” he admitted. “I’ve never done something like this before.”

Will stepped closer, their bodies brushing, his lips hovering near Mike’s ear. “I’ve noticed you for a while, Mike,” he murmured. “There’s just something about you I can’t get enough of. Do you have any idea how hard it is to hold myself back?”

Mike’s breathing picked up, his chest rising and falling as Will’s warm breath sent a shiver down his spine. He took a shaky breath, their bodies now flush together. “I-I don’t want you to hold yourself back.”

Will pulled away just enough for their eyes to lock. Desire flickered unmistakably in his gaze as he lifted his free hand, cupping the side of Mike’s face, his thumb brushing gently over his cheek. “You’re so fucking beautiful,” he murmured. “Especially with that camera.”

Heat rushed to Mike’s face beneath his touch. He bit onto his bottom lip, a shy smile breaking through. “Y-you really think so?”

Will nodded slowly, his hand sliding to the crook of Mike’s neck, fingertips grazing his skin so lightly it made him shudder. “Such a pretty boy,” he said softly, a grin tugging at his lips. His thumb brushed over Mike’s bottom lip, slow and deliberate. “And these lips…” he added quietly, eyes dropping for a split second to stare at Mike’s lips before lifting again to his eyes. “Bet you can do a lot with them, huh?”

Mike’s cheeks were burning, his body shuddering at the feel of Will’s thumb brushing over his bottom lip. He couldn’t speak, couldn’t find the words, so he stayed still, letting himself be held there in the moment, in Will’s touch.

“Mike,” Will breathed, their eyes locked together, the intensity almost dizzying. “Can I kiss you?” His voice dropped, almost pleading. “Please.”

Mike swallowed, his breath unsteady, his heart hammering in his chest. He nodded before finally managing to whisper, “Yeah.”

That was all Will needed. Will flashed him a small smile before bringing both of his hands up to cup Mike’s face in his hands, his thumbs running across his cheeks, leaning closer until their lips press together in a gentle, sweet kiss.

Their eyes fluttered shut as their bodies pressed together. Mike let out a soft gasp into the kiss, heat rushing through his veins, his heart pounding so hard he swore Will could feel it. The feeling of Will’s lips against his made him feel alive, like something cracked open in his chest, leaving him lightheaded in the best way.

Mike’s arms slid up around Will’s neck, fingers tangling in his hair as he pulled him closer. Their mouths moved together in perfect sync, slow at first, deliberate, urgency building with every second.

A quiet whimper slipped from Will against his lips. Mike heard it, felt it, and something inside him sparked. He pressed in deeper, the kiss growing more insistent.

Will responded immediately, another soft sound leaving him as he kept his hands on Mike’s face and tilted his head, deepening the kiss. Their bodies fit together seamlessly, heat radiating between them.

This time, it was Mike who whimpered, matching the movement as he tilted his head the opposite way. His fingers tightened slightly in Will’s hair, holding him there as their lips continued to move together, urgent, breathless, and impossibly right.

Their lips continued to move together with urgency, both of them breathless and the feeling impossibly right. 

“Come back to my apartment,” Will murmured, pulling away just long enough to breathe the words against Mike’s mouth before kissing him again, unable to stay away for long. 

Mike nodded immediately, the kiss growing heated as his hands slid down Will’s back, gripping the fabric of his jacket to keep him close. He’d never been kissed like this before. He’d never felt more alive and he never wanted it to end.

When Will’s tongue brushed gently along his bottom lip, a soft whimper slipped from Mike without his permission. His cheeks burned at the sound, but he was far too wrapped up in the way Will was kissing him with hunger and intention to feel embarrassed or care.

Will made a low sound in response, barely restrained, before pulling back just enough for both of them to breathe. He rested his forehead against Mike’s, their lips still brushing with every breath.

“Fuck, Wheeler,” Will whispered, breathless as he let out a shaky laugh. “Come with me.”

Mike nodded, breathless and unable to even think clearly. “Y-yeah, okay.”

Will flashed him a grin before grabbing Mike’s hand and leading him toward the rooftop exit, pulling him through the door and down the stairs.

Mike’s heart pounded in his chest, adrenaline coursing through him as he followed. A soft, breathless laugh escaped his lips, he couldn’t help it. He’d never felt this alive before. Ever.

When they reached Will’s apartment door, everything happened at once. Will pressed him back against the door, body pressing flush against his, trapping him there effortlessly. A soft gasp slipped from Mike at the sudden closeness, his hands instinctively finding Will’s sides.

They stayed like that for a moment, breathing heavy, bodies aligned, eyes locked. The desire between their gaze was unmistakable and fully charged.

Will’s lips curved into a faint smirk, and Mike couldn’t tear his gaze away from them: pink, swollen, still parted slightly. He’d done that. He had made Will’s lips all swollen from being kissed. The realization sent another shiver through him.

His smirk widened, eyes never leaving Mike’s as the pad of his thumb brushed slowly over his bottom lip. Mike’s body buzzed with electricity, his head tilting slightly as if he couldn’t help himself. His cheeks were flushed, lips swollen, thoughts scattered beyond coherence.

“So, so pretty,” Will breathed, thumb tracing his lip once more, sending heat flooding through Mike’s face. “Come on.”

He gripped Mike’s waist, pulling him close, and with his free hand pulled out his keys from his jacket, unlocking the door without ever breaking eye contact.

The moment the door shut and locked behind them, Will pressed Mike back against it. A soft gasp escaped Mike at the sudden closeness, their bodies fitting together nicely.

“Need to kiss you again,” Will breathed before crashing his lips back onto Mike’s, the kiss deeper this time, urgency sparking between them.

Mike whimpered softly into the kiss, arms wrapping around Will’s frame as he pulled him impossibly closer. Heat radiated between them, dizzying and overwhelming, and Mike tugged at the hem of Will’s jacket without even thinking. Will responded immediately, shrugging it off and letting it fall to the floor without breaking the kiss.

The kiss turned messy and desperate, all warmth and breath and barely contained want between them. Mike’s hand moved to the front of Will’s chest, fingers toying with the buttons on his shirt. Will grinned against the kiss and without breaking it moved one of his hands on top of Mike’s to begin unbuttoning his shirt until it practically slipped off his body and down onto the floor.

Mike unzipped his jacket between the kiss and immediately tugged it off, not caring where it landed on the ground. 

Their lips moved together in an uncontrollable movement, bodies pressed together. Mike could feel Will’s bare chest pressed against his, the fabric of his shirt still in the way.

Will pulled Mike from the door and began walking backwards and moving over to the couch before stumbling down on it without breaking the kiss and pulling Mike on top of him.

Mike gasped against the kiss, now straddling Will’s waist, their bodies pressed together, hips perfectly aligned. Mike pulled away for a moment to catch his labored breath, staring down at Will with desire filling his gaze.

Will’s lips curved into a slight smirk, lips swollen and pink. “You’re really fucking hot, you know that?” His hand moved down his chest through the fabric of his shirt before his fingers began toying with the hem of his shirt. “But this needs to come off. Now.”

Mike nodded, head still spinning as he pulled his shirt over his head and let it fall to the floor. He stayed where he was, settled on Will’s lap, chest bare, cheeks flushed. His breathing was a little unsteady, a shy smile tugging at his lips.

“So are you,” he murmured.

Will broke into a wide grin, one hand steady at Mike’s hip, the other sliding up to the back of his neck to draw him closer. “And really fucking addicting,” he said softly, forehead brushing Mike’s. “Come here.”

Their lips crashed together once again, full of urgency and need as their bodies pressed together. Mike braced his palms against the couch on either side of Will’s head, tilting his own slightly to deepen the kiss.

Will let out a breathy moan against his lips, hands sliding to Mike’s hips and giving them a firm squeeze, his fingers grazing just above where his pants rested.

A shudder ran down Mike’s spine at Will’s touch, heat radiating between them. When Will’s tongue brushed along his bottom lip, Mike parted his mouth instinctively, letting him in. Their tongues slid together slowly, deliberately, urgency humming beneath every movement.

A soft whimper slipped from Mike against Will’s mouth as they kissed, the taste of champagne lingering on Will’s lips and tongue, making Mike’s skin tingle everywhere they touched.

Will’s grip tightened on Mike’s hips as he pulled him down onto his lap, a soft gasp slipping from Mike’s lips when he felt the friction between them. Mike suddenly could feel Will’s hard length through the fabric of his jeans and it made Mike moan against the kiss. He was surprised he could get him this heated and it was driving him absolutely insane. 

Mike kissed him deeper, tongues brushing in slow, heated strokes, need building with every breath between them. Will kept his grip on Mike’s hips, guiding him down against his hardened length. The friction alone through the material of their jeans sent a shudder to run down Mike’s spine. He gasped against his mouth, pulling away from the kiss to catch his labored breathing, forehead rested on his. 

Will’s breath mingled with Mike’s, his hands moving down from his hips to his ass to pull him down even more against his hardened length. 

A shaky moan slipped from Mike against Will’s lips as his eyes opened, locking with Will’s that were dark, hungry, and full of need. His hips rolled instinctively against Will’s, hands sliding down to his shoulders, fingers digging in as if to anchor himself.

Will let out a groan, his hands gripping Mike’s ass to keep him close, their hips pressed together to create friction between them. Mike could tell he was completely hardened in the fabric of his jeans and he could swear he had never been more turned on in his life. 

His cock twitched through the fabric as he rolled his hips against Will’s, a low groan emitting from the back of his throat. 

“That feels… wow,” Will breathed, a soft moan slipping out as his hands slid back to Mike’s hips, gripping tighter to keep him steady.

Mike nodded slowly, heart hammering against his ribs as their eyes locked in an intense gaze. His hands drifted down Will’s bare chest, fingertips grazing warm skin. “It feels so good,” Mike breathed, barely above a whisper, his hips moving instinctively closer to Will’s to keep the friction against them. 

Will sucked in a sharp breath, feeling every inch of Mike’s hardening cock through the material and moving his hand down his chest to his lower abdomen to begin toying with the belt on his jeans. “Take these off. Now. Want to feel every bit of you.”

Mike let a shaky breath escape past his lips, nodding his head as he stilled his hips for a moment to unbuckle his belt and unzip his jeans to quickly pull them off and kick them off his legs, not caring where they landed.

Will removed his pants as well, leaving them with nothing but boxers between them. Will’s hands found Mike’s hips once again and gripped them tightly to hold him down and immediately both of them let out a moan when they felt their cocks rubbing together through the thin material of their boxers.

“Shit.” Will cussed underneath his breath, fingers digging into Mike’s flesh. The lack of clothing between them made all the difference because now they could both feel how hard they both were against each other.

Mike nodded in agreement, a soft moan escaping his lips as he continued to roll his hips along Will, their hardened lengths rubbing together repeatedly. Mike tipped his head back and Will instantly leaned forward to press his lips against the hollow of Mike’s throat. 

Will’s tongue traced a slow line along his skin before he parted his lips and sucked gently, leaving a newly formed bruise against the sensitive flesh. Mike’s breath hitched, and a small, helpless sound escaped him, half moan, half whimper.

“I’m gonna mark you up so people know you’re mine,” Will murmured softly against his skin, his tongue tracing along Mike’s neck.

Mike let out a shaky breath, his head tilted onto his shoulder, his hips rolling along Will’s to keep the pace, their lengths rubbing together. Mike had never felt more turned on in his life. His skin tingled, heat pooled in his stomach felt himself achingly tipping over the edge any moment.

He couldn’t help but let out a breathy moan, looking down at Will with darkened eyes. “I’m so close.” He gasped out breathlessly.

Will gripped his hips tighter to keep him in place on his lap, their cocks brushing together. Will nodded his head, fingers digging into his flesh. “Come on baby, let go for me.”

Mike nodded his head at his words, his skin tingling with electricity running through his veins. He couldn’t hold back anymore, he didn’t want to. The friction between them was too good and he felt himself let go.

He let out an uncontrollable moan, allowing his body to tip over the edge, his orgasm taking over his entire body. “Fuck.” Mike cussed underneath his breath, unable to control his labored breathing.

“That’s it, such a good boy.” Will murmured softly as he watched Mike fall apart on top of him, mesmerized by how beautiful Mike looked all wrecked from riding out his high.

“What about-“ Mike tried to speak, but Wil leaned forward and pressed a soft kiss to his lips. 

“Almost there,” Will said breathlessly. He pushed his hips up into Mike’s, their cocks rubbing together repeatedly. Their lips pressed together hungrily and messy, Will’s moans muffled against the kiss. 

“Fuck, I’m-“ Will could hardly even speak as his orgasm took control of his body, his chest pressed against Mike’s as he fell apart underneath him. 

Their breathing was labored, lips lingering against each other as Will let out a breathy laugh and moved his arms to wrap around his waist.

He leaned his forehead on Mike’s, pressing a soft kiss to Mike’s lips. “We literally made a mess, didn’t we?”

Mike let out a soft laugh, nodding as his eyes fluttered closed. “Looks like we’ll have to go clean up, yeah?”

Will pulled back just enough to look at him, a small, fond smile on his lips. Mike opened his eyes, still hazy and heavy with exhaustion. Will lifted a hand, fingers gently threading through Mike’s curls.

“Wanna sleep over?” he asked quietly. “We can shower and maybe watch a movie.”

Mike nodded, a wider grin breaking across his face. “Only if I get to take some more pictures of you. Any time, any place.”

Will laughed, nudging him lightly in the chest. “I think I’m going to want you as my photographer from now on.”

Mike flashed him a playful smirk. “Only if you pay me in kisses.”

“Hm,” Will hummed, pretending to think about it before leaning in and pressing a soft kiss to his lips. “Deal.”

Will brushed his thumb along Mike’s cheek, slow and affectionate, like he was memorizing every little part of him.

They stayed like that for a while, wrapped in each other’s arms, simply enjoying the comfort of being close. There was no rush, nowhere they needed to be.

Just right there, together. 

Mike wouldn’t have it any other way.