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It happened fast, large groups of people making their way into the Hawkins Ice rink. The walls shook with excitement, peoples voices overlapping with each other and shouting their thoughts out loud. The music didn’t help either, only fueling the crowd's energy.
Today was a huge game for Hawkins, this game will be the first to set the bar of position in the playoffs. Everyone was feeling it, hearts beating with adrenaline and stomachs filled with anxiety. Although the crowd was nervous about the game, the players had an unbelievable pressure on them.
The players began to come out onto the ice, practicing drills as people looked for their seats. It was only light warm ups, however it was much needed ones. The per game nerves were everywhere, making it hard to focus right. Everyone could feel it, the energy in the room hard to not notice.
Out of everyone in the crowd, Mike Wheeler, the captain of the team, had his eyes on one certain boy. Mike wouldn’t say he’s that great at the game, humble about his status. However, time and time again he’s proven wrong about his statement. He would also be lying if he didn’t say he likes to show off a little. Only for his best friend, of course. Who was sitting close to the benches, a special seat Mike begged for him to have. Mike couldn’t get his eyes off him, his heart racing for other reasons other than the game. Mike wasn’t so nervous about the game anymore, he was more worried about his performance in front of the one and only, Will Byers.
Mike still feels so lucky to call Will his best friend. He feels like their chances of ever meeting were slim, let alone becoming this close with him. Will Byers is a well known figure skater, his movements on the ice is unlike Mike has ever seen. He was quick and fluent, every move he made was gentle like a stroke from a paintbrush. Mike swears there's magic to Will, hypnotizing Mike with his performances.
They would often run into each other when they were younger, sharing the ice rink for practice. Little 6 year old Mike knew that his one goal is to become friends with Will Byers. For many months, Mike would ignore his coaches words to skate with Will instead, mainly being the one to carry the conversations since Will didn’t seem to be much of a talker like him. Though Mike knew that he enjoyed spending that time together, often sitting next to each other during breaks and hanging out with him off the ice. Mike wasn’t sure if Will had any other friends other than him, however, Mike’s new mission was to be Will’s bestest friend.
Today that still holds true. There was no doubt Mike loved Will, doing everything and all just to make him happy. That still holds true, especially now. Mike wanted to impress Will so badly tonight, he wasn’t sure why he felt like needed to. He and Will were already great friends, best friends. So there’s no real reason why Mike should feel the way he does, right?
At least that's how Mike saw it. He guesses there is one reason, however, Mike didn’t see it as a big issue. He was going to be facing Will's snobby boyfriend. As much as Mike cared about Will, he couldn’t stand his boyfriend. He was way too cocky for his own good, bragging about how he’s gonna be the greatest in NHL history. Mike rolled his eyes every time he had to be in the same room as him, hating how he only talked to Mike about hockey.
Mike loves hockey, don’t get him wrong, however he doesn’t want to hear someone glaze themself while having a stick up their ass. When he wasn’t talking about himself, he was commenting about other players which Mike wasn’t a fan of. His takes were a little harsh and unfair in MIke’s opinion.
He hated spending any time with the guy, only tolerating him for Will’s sake. Mike still has no clue how someone so sweet as Will can be with a guy so sour as Carlton. If Mike had to guess, they’re only together for their love on the ice and the fact they're both queer. Other than that, they didn’t share much in common. In Mike’s eyes at least.
Maybe that’s why Mike feels the way he does, wanting Will’s eyes to only be on him tonight. He’s been with Will the longest, it only makes sense for Will to cheer for his team, right?
Mike slowed his skating once he finished his laps, slowly making his way to where Will sat. However, he was cut off by a fellow player and close friend, Lucas Sinclair. He patted Mike’s shoulder, giving him a hopeful look.
“Ready for tonight? You look distracted.” Lucas raised a brow, glancing to where Will was sitting. Obviously hinting towards him.
Mike grumbled, looking between Will and Lucas. He shook it off and let out a soft sigh, calming his nerves.
“Yeah I’ll be alright, as long as stupid Carlton stays out of my way.” Mike muttered out that last part, looking down at his skates.
He could hear Lucas chuckle, clearly used to Mike’s thoughts on Carlton. He patted Mike on the back, giving him a knowing look.
“Don’t let your jealousy ruin the game man, stay focused.” Lucas smiled, slowly skating his way back.
“I’m not! I have nothing to be jealous about, I just really hate the guy.” Mike complained, looking back over at Will.
Lucas caught the look in Mike’s eyes, laughing quietly under his breath only to himself. “Sure Will has nothing to do with it?”
Mike blushed a little, his heart stuttering on the thought about Will. He was quick to deny any of the ideas Lucas was getting, though he was already skating away. Mike huffed as he slowly made his way to the benches, feeling his face heat up.
What did Lucas know anyway, why would he be jealous over Will? That was just stupid. He was already Will’s first friend AND bestest friend. Sure Carlton got to press his filthy lips all over Will, hold Will close to him every night, and be the person Will spends all his time with till the end of time. Mike doesn’t feel jealous about that at all.
He just doesn’t want Will to be with a self centered asshole known as Carlton. Now that Mike’s really thinking about it, he doesn’t like the thought of Will being with anyone for that matter. That way Will could spend all his time with Mike again. Life would be much better if it was just him and Will, coming home from a tiring game to the greatest person he’s ever met sounds like a dream to Mike.
That doesn’t make him jealous though, right?
Mike began to wonder now, why he felt this protective over Will’s attention. Asking himself why it meant so much to him and why he needed it so bad. Even Mike knew it probably wasn’t normal for a best friend to feel that way. Before Mike could really dig deeper on that thought, Will’s sweet voice brought him to reality.
“Good luck on the game tonight! You look a little tense, are you okay?” Will softened his eyes, his gaze staying on Mike.
Mike couldn’t help but to smile like a dork, Will was always so thoughtful over him. Mike nodded, taking a sip of his water before setting the bottle down. He gazed at Will’s outfit, a little too dressed up for a hockey game in his opinion. However, like always, Will made it work.
“Are you really wearing a suit for my big game?” Mike smirked, dodging to answer Will’s question.
Now it was Will’s turn to smile, shaking his head slightly. “I didn’t have time to change after my interview today, besides I wouldn't know which jersey to wear tonight otherwise.”
Mike’s smile slowly faded, reminded about Will’s boyfriend again. He stayed quiet for a moment, looking at his team on the ice, humming softly. He then looked back over to Will.
“I think we both know the answer to that.” Mike said with a small smirk, his eyes giving himself away.
“Oh yeah? And what's that?” Will smiled back, already knowing the answer to his question.
Mike stood up and was now pointing towards his back, his name stretched across his back along with the number 11 underneath. The jersey was a deep shade of blue with white, making a nice clean look. As Mike stood there, his smile slowly grew. “Hawkins obviously. Gotta cheer for your favourite player on your favourite team.”
Mike was being a little cocky, only to get a laugh out of Will. Luckily it worked, the sound of Will’s sweet giggles were just barely heard from the loud audience around them. Mike smiled more softly now, turning over to Will.
“I don’t know, Mike. Carlton is a tough beat.” Will smiled, tilting his head a little.
The mention of his name was enough to upset Mike. He grumbled a little, shaking his head. “He’s not actually, stat wise that is. Don’t listen to his trouble hockey takes.”
Will slowly lost his smile, familiar to Mike’s thoughts on Carlton. He didn’t push on it however, only shrugging his shoulders. For some reason that set Mike off, feeling the need to add on.
“You know I'm right. He’s always talking about how it's the goalies fault, um red flag number one right there.” Mike crossed his arms, raising his eyebrows at Will.
Will sighed softly, looking to be deep in thought. He eventually looked at Mike, shaking his head. “I guess, but he’s my boyfriend Mike, I'm gonna be cheering for him regardless.”
Mike was quiet after that, slowly looking away from Will. He flooded his arms in himself, tapping his finger against his elbow. Mike didn’t like that Will had a point, feeling a certain pit in his stomach growing. He decided to ignore it for now, drawing his attention back onto his team.
Mike stayed silent for a good while, in his defence. However, Mike always loved getting the last laugh. “You say that but we all know you’re going to be watching me the whole time.”
Mike smiled over at Will, giving him one last look before heading back onto the ice. He didn’t have time to hear Will’s response, however he knew he was most likely annoyed with him.
Before Mike knew it, the announcers were calling their names, lining up with each other as they waited for the game to start. Mike would occasionally glance over at Will, seeing that Will was already looking at him. Something in Mike’s chest swelled with pride, making him feel better about his previous comment. This feeling was unfortunately short lived, the other team now coming out onto the ice.
There was a new feeling bubbling within Mike, though it wasn’t near as pleasant as the one in his chest. It was deep, dark and twisted, something ugly even Mike wasn’t used to. There skating in front of him was none other than Carlton. He had this sickening smile on his face, too confident for his own good. Mike was ready to launch at the guy, no holding back. However, something within him (probably the more reasonable side of him speaking) said not to engage. All he needed to do was to focus on the game, and impress Will. Not letting this douchebag take his attention he could be giving to Will.
Mike took a deep breath, putting a hand over his heart as they slowly began to sing the national anthem. He looked up, deciding for his own sake to ignore Carlton as much as he could for now.
Once they were finished singing, the game began. Both teams went to their respective sides, getting ready to face off. Mike skated up to the line next to the referee. Carlton followed suit, both of them lowering their hockey sticks, staring each other down. As the puck hit the ice, the game finally started
Mike was the first to get the puck on their side, already off to a great start. Will watched eagerly, not sure who to cheer on. He didn’t want to admit it, but Mike was right about earlier. Will always loved watching him, unable to look away. He thinks that Carlton is also a great player, however, it wasn’t the same as THE Mike Wheeler.
As the first period played out, Will noticed the charm Mike was bringing onto the ice. A part of him was slightly worried that Mike would be all in Carlton's face, though to his surprise, Mike was more focused on what he himself was doing. Will took note of how fast he was, stealing the puck and taking the opportunities to bump into his opponent's. Will would giggle a little, watching him jump into the booth.
Mike was taking a short break, getting some water as the others were on the ice. It was half away through period one, only Hawkins were up by 2. The energy was roaring throughout the stadium, music blaring and crowd chanting. However, throughout all the noise, he could still hear that sweet voice he’s so very familiar with.
“You’re showing off a bit out there.” Will said to Mike, his tone teasing and soft.
“I have to! There’s a real pretty guy in the audience tonight.” Mike smiled as he looked over at Will.
Will’s cheeks flushed as he looked away, shaking his head at Mike like his comment was ridiculous. “Stop it won’t you? You’re only 2 points ahead, you know.”
“Doesn’t matter, I have my eyes on something else.” Mike said rather too casually, getting a few sips of water before heading back onto the ice.
Will smiled softly, watching Mike leave. He felt a warm tug on his heart, Mike's words lingering in his head. Did Mike really think he was pretty? He’s used to Mike’s teasing but the way he spoke sounded too genuine to be mistaken. Whatever Mike did, made Will feel warm inside.
Carlton seemed to have taken notice of Mike and Will’s behaviour, clearly not a fan of whatever they had going on. He glanced over to the puck, seeing who had possession over it. Of course it was none other than Mike, making his way over to their side of the rink. Carlton decided to take this chance to shove Mike over. He skated over to him fast, using his body to slam Mike into the glass. He groaned as he dropped to the ground, not expecting such a heavy blow.
As Mike got back up, he watched as Carlton skated away, grumbling under his breath. He shook it off, knowing that’s only part of the game and trying to not let it get too personal.
Mike would’ve been fine with it, however, Carlton wouldn’t stop. Taking whatever dirty blows he could to Mike. It quickly became an issue, Mike barely having the chance to be on the ice without getting wiped out.
Eventually intermission came, giving the teams a much deserved break. Mike followed the team into the locker rooms, groaning in pain. “That asshole! He’s targeting me!” Mike complained to Lucas, taking a seat next to him.
“Relax, he’s only playing rough with you since you’re the leader of the team.” Lucas sighed before taking a long chug from his water.
“No dude, I'm being so honest. Sure, yeah blows can knock the living shit out of you, but that son of bitch is hitting me for the sake of hitting me! It’s so annoying.” Mike grumbled, rubbing his aching side.
“Are you sure? If you really think that then maybe you should try talking to the ref about it.”
Mike sighed while shaking his head, sending his sweaty dark curls around. “They aren’t gonna listen to me. It’s whatever, this is the type of game he wants to play, then I’ll give it to him.”
Lucas gave Mike an uncertain look, pausing at him for a moment. “Whatever man, just don’t get killed.”
Eventually they all huddle back on the ice, slowly falling back into position. Mike, of course, found his way back to Will. He smiled up at him, forgetting all about his anger over Carlton till Will brought him up again.
“Are you feeling okay? I’ve noticed that Carlton gave you some heavy hits back there.” Will asked, leaning a little closer so Mike could hear him better.
Mike groaned and shook his head, running his fingers through the mess of his own hair. “Maybe ask him to back off for me. I swear he’s just doing it to annoy me.”
“I'm sure that's not the real reason. He just likes to play more rough.” Will tried to defend him, though even he knew that was a lie.
Mike just rolled his eyes and hopped back onto the ice, trying to calm his nerves down. As they were getting warmed up again, Carlton had run into Mike, deciding to tip Mike over the edge even more.
“Would you quit talking to my boyfriend?” Carlton spat, glaring at Mike.
Mike huffed, trying his best not to snap at him. “He’s my best friend, I’ll do whatever I want.”
Carlton rolled his eyes at Mike, giving him a small shove. “Well he’s mine, alright? He shouldn’t be talking to you anyway."
“Little controlling much?” Mike groaned, glaring over at Carlton.
“As I should be. Better watch out, Wheeler.”
With that he skated away, heading back to his side of the rink. Mike gagged, scrunching his nose in clear dislike to his comment. “‘Better watch out, Wheeler.” What an ass.” Mike mocked , clearly upset with Carlton.
Soon the 2nd period would begin. Much similar to the first one, Mike was showing off a little bit, doing whatever he could to impress Will. However, he couldn’t be his full self because of a certain someone. Every time Mike thought he was in the clear, he would get knocked back down to the ice, leaving little bruises throughout his body. Mike was starting to get discouraged, feeling that ugly gut twisting punch from earlier.
Mike felt like it was pure bullshit, it wasn’t fair how he kept getting picked on over something personal. Mike couldn’t excuse the game anymore, this was about his and Will’s relationship. Mike felt a dark pit in his stomach, his heart beating hard in his chest.
The noise around him was way too loud for his own sake, making it hard to focus on anything at that very moment. Everything around Mike quickly became blurry, missing cues to get off the ice. Mike’s breathing grew more heavy, trying hard to calm himself down, but to his luck, Carlton decided now would be the perfect time to knock Mike over.
As Mike hit the ice, he felt something within him snap. This wasn’t right, is anyone going to say anything? Mike slowly got up, his body aching with pain and anger. He got off the ice, heading back to his bench only to be met with his coach yelling at him. Asking Mike “What on earth was that!” and “Why are you playing so sloppy?” the comments getting blurred with the audience’s screams. He could faintly hear Will’s voice, however, it was too gentle to actually be heard through the loud roar of the sounds around them.
Mike glared at Carlton, watching him skate on the ice innocently, like he didn’t just knock the living shit out of Mike. Something about it upsets Mike, making him feel the gnawing pit in his stomach grow and grow, unbearable to even sit with it.
Mike was so focused on Carlton that he didn’t notice that Lucas had taken a seat next to Mike. He kept asking Mike if he was okay, however, Mike wouldn’t respond. It felt like everyone knew it would be a terrible idea to let Mike back on the rink, given his current state. Though somehow, Mike was allowed back on the ice, yet this time he was different.
He stared Carlton down, making sure he wouldn’t miss his chance. Somehow Hawkins had lost their lead, only adding to Mike’s anger. The sound of the bell ringing was enough to send Mike over the edge. Carlton made his way over to Mike, about to give him a snarky comment however didn’t get the chance.
Mike tossed his stick onto the ground, as well as his gloves. Mike wasn’t used to fighting on the ice rink, however, Carlton had set Mike off for the last time. Mike immediately started to rip off his helmet, beginning to grab at his jersey to keep him from skating away. Now was Mike’s chance, no longer holding back.
Mike took his arm back then swung it over, his fist crashing into Carlton's nose. Mike didn’t stop, continuing the act till he was satisfied. He heard the crowd around him cheering and booing, mainly a mess of noises. He knew Will had the front seat of it all as well. Though Mike couldn’t focus on that right now, he needed to have this selfish moment.
Carlton laughed at him, having the nerve to bring up Will’s name as he stared at Mike. “This is Will’s best friend? After he sees what you did to me, I’ll make sure to never see you again. So that whore will be all to myself.”
That was enough to send Mike over the edge, sending punch after punch to Carlton's face. He tried to fight back, however Mike’s grip was too tight to squirm out of. The referees tried to break up the fight, getting clocked by Mike as well.
“You’re the filthy whore! Leave Will out of this!” Mike yelled, getting on the last punch to Carlton's face, watching as his nose snapped with blood leaking out.
Mike’s knuckles now were covered in the same blood, adding to the sting of them. He was immediately ripped away from Mike’s grasp, the team rushing to Carlton’s side. Mike slowly backed away, watching the rush of people asking if Carlton was okay. Mike felt his anger slowly leave him, not regretting what he did, however understanding he probably went too far.
Both Carlton and Mike were called off the ice, getting Carlton to check his nose while Mike was out for the rest of the game. Mike was sent to the locker room, probably going to get yelled at by his coach for letting his emotions get the better of him. Mike would argue that Carlton had it coming, especially since he was the first one to bring up personal issues to begin with.
Mike sat on the bench alone, hearing the loud outside of the game continuing on. He sighed, knowing for sure he blew it. He was better than this, he was really trying. In the end, he broke Will’s boyfriend’s nose and now awaited for whatever his coach is going to put him through. He closed his eyes, letting out a shaky sigh, the pit in his stomach slowly leaving, making him relax slightly. He would be lying if he said getting to hit Carlton in the face hadn’t helped with whatever issue he had.
As Mike sat there to think, he began to hear gentle footsteps, only knowing who exactly those belonged to. He opened his eyes, looking over to see the familiar face, Will.
Mike felt his cheeks flush, a little embarrassed to be facing him after what he had done to his boyfriend. Mike knew he was in a lot of shit, not even sure what to say to Will. “Hey sorry I broke your annoying boyfriend’s nose! I was actually super jealous and hated what he was doing to you.” Yeah like Will would let that slide.
Mike would soon have no room to think anymore, seeing Will appear over the corner, looking upset as ever. He made his way up to Mike, crossing his arms as he stared him down. It was silent for a moment, though Mike could hear every thought Will was making.
“Mind explaining to me why you thought it was a good idea to break my boyfriends fucking nose.” Will said coldly, sending chills down his spine.
Mike tried his best to look away but knew Will wanted him to face him. Mike sighed, giving Will sadden puppy eyes.
“He kept hitting me, Will! He was setting me up I swear.”
“So you broke his nose?” Will asked, annoyed, making Mike grumble a little.
“I wasn’t going to! It just sorta happened.”
“Mike! Do you have any idea how much Carlton means to me? He already doesn’t like you that much, now he’ll never let me see you again over this! And maybe he’s right, clearly you can’t handle your own emotions.”
Mike felt like the air in his lungs was knocked right out of him. He paused for a moment, fully processing his words. “Woah hey! Carlton was the one who started it all, so what if I broke his nose? Let's hope I hit his ego as well.”
Will scoffed, turning away from Mike. He couldn’t believe what Mike was saying, why was he being so difficult?
“Don’t say that! You know I love him right? Seriously Mike, let me have this one relationship.”
“If you loved him so much, then why are you checking on me rather than him?”
Will was silent for a moment, glaring at Mike. He wasn’t sure how to answer that. Yes he’s upset at Mike and would like to yell at him, but he guesses Mike has a good point. He should’ve checked on Carlton first.
“And I know you love him, everyday you tell me that. I was just so tired of it, all the hits and comments. I mean the guy clearly has a problem, Will. Honestly, does he always call you that?” Mike continued, looking over at Will. He didn't hold much bite to his tone, like he was unable to raise his voice at Will.
“What do you mean?” Will asked a little more calmly now, still clearly upset though more curious to what Mike was talking about.
“Just throwing the word whore around like it’s nothing? Plus he was all in my face, reminding me how I'm never gonna be in your life!” Mike groaned, the words not sitting right on his tongue. He looked over at Will, a silent plea in his eyes. “I Know I’m just a best friend but it’s different with us. We’re always close, and I don't want to lose that over some stupid guy!”
Will stood there quietly. He looked lost, like he wasn’t sure what to say to Mike. He sighed softly, walking over to Mike to take a seat next to him. Mike wasn’t even sure if Will was allowed back here, however, he couldn't care less about that now.
“You don’t get it Mike. You can date whoever girl you want and it wouldn’t be an issue for you. It’s different with people like me.” Will said quietly, looking down at the ground. Mike watched Will very carefully, not sure what to say. He never thought about it like that, feeling a small twist in his stomach. “I guess Carlton isn’t the nicest guy, but who else do I really have, Mike? Barely any man wants a relationship with another guy! It was a miracle that I even met Carlton.”
Mike didn’t agree with that last part, sure it’s not often you meet someone who is also queer, though Carlton wasn’t someone Mike was glad Will met. There was a long pause of silence, both Mike and Will letting his words linger in the air.
“I just wished you cared a little more, instead of some stupid competition with him.” Will finally broke, his voice more cold and distant. It was enough to send a sharp sting to Mike’s heart, not used to Will talking to him like that.
“I do care! I care so much I fought the guy!”
“That’s the problem! I want you to care about my thoughts and feelings.”
“Again, I do! I never wanted you to date someone that makes you miserable.”
Will stared at Mike for a moment, letting the words bounce around in his head. He then huffed, crossing his arms. “Then who do I date then, Mike? It’s not like I can go out there and tell the whole world im gay.”
Mike grumbled a little, looking away from Will. He bit his tongue, thinking of what to say. “Well anything would be better than dating that piece of shit.”
“Mike, just because you don’t like him doesn’t mean I don’t.”
“What? That's bullshit! He called you a whore, Will. Wow boyfriend of the year right there.”
“I’m sure he didn’t mean it, he was just upset that his face was being beaten.”
Mike was stunned, why was Will defending Carlton? That alone set something off within Mike.
“Even if I was upset, never would I start degrading my partner!”
“Well you’re not my partner Mike, stop getting yourself so involved.”
“I’m still your best friend! I should have a say on this.”
“No you don't. Maybe Carlton was right, maybe you are too controlling over me.”
Mike sat there shocked, not even sure what to say. Will was quiet after that, seeming to dislike what he said however doing nothing to take it back. He glanced over at Mike, looking at the bruised bloody knuckles before standing up.
“I have to go, Carlton probably needs me.” Will started to walk away, not looking back at whatever face Mike was giving him.
Mike grumbled a little, knowing that this wasn’t right. He didn’t like it when Will was like this, setting something off inside him. Mike quickly got up, following Will in time to hold him by the wrist. He held him close, not letting him leave. Will was confused, glaring over at Mike. He was about to start up, but Mike was already speaking first.
“Don’t leave Will. Do you really think I’m the controlling one?” Mike asked more desperately than what he expected. Will’s eyes were wide and teary, clearly holding back emotions. Mike tried to stare Will down, however his gaze was too soft like a puppy's.
“I don’t know what to think anymore Mike! Just leave me alone, please.”
“Will, I’m worried about you! I know Carlton sucks but anyone would agree with me if they knew what he’s been saying to you. This isn’t right and I know you think that too, so stop running away from me.” Mike’s hands slid up to Will’s shoulders, holding him close.
Will was silent, his breathing uneven. His gaze met the floor, trying hard not to look at Mike. “So what? I can’t just stand around and wait for someone who will never come.”
Mike tightened his hold on Will, like he would vanish if he let go of him. He leaned in closer to Will, his eyes wide and watery. “I’m right here, Will. You know that.” Mike’s voice was a whisper now, gentle and soft. The only voice Mike had for Will.
“Not like that, Mike. I want to be loved in a way Carlton loves me.” Will’s voice was now gentle again as well. He held no real bite to it, just a soft and tired tone sticking to it.
Mike slowly moved his hands up to Will’s cheeks, gently stroking them with his thumb. He then made Will lift his head, looking right into his eyes. Mike didn’t say a word, not sure if he could say anything to change Will’s mind. As the two both gazed into each other's eyes, Mike decided to take his chance.
He leaned down slowly, his grip loose on Will so he could back away if he wanted. However, Will stayed still, slightly leaning into his touch. Both Mike and Will’s lips brushed against each other, shy to make contact. Mike closed his eyes, feeling like his head was dizzy from how fast his heart raced in his chest. He finally closed the gap between him and Will, sharing a gentle kiss on the lips.
It wasn’t too long, Mike pulling back enough to gaze upon Will. It was silent, the crowd roaring above them gone and out of mind. It was just Mike and Will at this very moment.
Will’s hands reached to Mike’s waist, holding him tightly. This time Will leaned in to melt their lips together. It was slow at first, similar to how the first kiss was. Though it quickly became hungry. Will was the first to deepen the kiss, squeezing Mike’s waist as he fluttered his eyes shut. Their lips danced together, following a slow and gentle pace. Neither one of them wanted to pull back, the kiss too sweet and needy to get out of. Will was the first to slightly open his mouth, inviting Mike to enter in. Mike wasted no time, slipping his tongue to meet Will’s.
They both fitted so well together, like they belonged to be with each other. Mike continued to lick inside Will’s mouth, never wanting to pull away. Will was the same, his grip on Mike only bringing him closer. He knew at that moment this was what he wanted. He needed Mike as much as Mike needed him.
They only pulled away to catch their breaths, both of them breathing heavily in each other's faces. Mike’s hands were in Will’s hair, at some point during the kiss they had found their way there. Mike panted slightly, staring at Will with dilated eyes.
“Will, I promise I’ll be better than Carlton could ever be. Please don’t leave me.” Mike spoke breathlessly, his lips shiny and bright.
Will was speechless, feeling his heart fluttering in his chest. He knew Mike was being honest, he really wanted to be with Will. He could feel cheeks heating up, the thought alone making his body rush with excitement. Will knew Mike was right, he loved Will as much as Will loved him. They always belonged together.
“Carlton isn’t going to be happy to hear about a break up and the fact I’m getting with the guy who broke his nose.” Will laughed breathlessly. He gazed at Mike, watching as Mike slowly began to smile, chuckling along with Will.
“So, yes?” Mike smiled more hopeful, his face only inches away from Will’s.
Will rolled his eyes a little, smiling back at Mike. He nodded slightly, giving Mike a short yet sweet kiss. He held it for a good while before pulling back, softly blinking at Mike.
“Like I can love another after all you put me through. Of course I'll stay with you.”
Mike smiled more widely, pulling back more to get a better view of Will. Both of their hearts raced, both knowing that this was how it was meant to be. There were still much needed conversations to be had, like Mike’s behaviour on the ice and Will’s relationship with Carlton. However in the end, both Mike and Will have everything they could ever want.