I AM ABSOLUTELY LOVING THE MIKE WHEELER X POPULAR GIRL READER LIKE NEHEHDNDHD
its so cute i exploded
We need more 🤌
(I ask respectfully 🙇♀️)
— A DREAM WITH A CHEERLEADER
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , mike wheeler𝔁 f! reader | wc 1700
summary. mike wheeler, a shy and awkward member of the hellfire club, has been harboring a massive crush on you ever since he first saw you cheering at one of lucas’s basketball games. despite his insecurities, his friends max and dustin help him gather the courage to talk to you. with their advice and a bit of luck, mike might finally close the gap between his daydreams and reality.
labels. cheerleader reader, feminine reader, use of y/n, shy and awkward mike, hellfire mike, reader is into it though.
warnings. mild language, social anxiety, fluffy awkwardness.
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. based on faye webster’s song “dream with a basketball player.” merry christmas those who celebrate & happy new year.
i saw you first during lucas’s game last month. you were standing at the edge of the court, wearing your cheer uniform, waving your pom-poms in sync with the rest of the team. but for me, you didn’t blend in — you stood out. the way you smiled, like it didn’t matter if your team was losing or winning, it hit me. i couldn’t look away.
since then, it’s been … bad.
❝dude, you have to stop staring,❞ dustin said during lunch one day, waving a fry in front of my face. i blinked, realizing i’d been watching you across the cafeteria again. ❝it’s borderline creepy at this point.❞
❝i’m not staring,❞ i muttered, looking down at my tray, heat rising to my face.
shit, max is here. why did she decide to sit with us today?
max, sitting next to him, rolled her eyes. ❝no, dustin’s right. you’ve been mooning over her for weeks, mike. either do something about it or stop whining.❞
❝just because i don’t sit with you everyday doesn’t mean i can’t see how obvious you are drooling over her.❞
❝i’m not whining,❞ i protested, but they both gave me a look. i groaned, slumping forward. ❝it’s not like she’d ever go for someone like me, okay? she’s …she’s perfect. and i’m just —❞
❝a nerd?❞ max supplied helpfully.
❝thanks,❞ i grumbled.
dustin leaned in, lowering his voice like he was about to deliver some top-secret intel. ❝listen, y/n’s cool. cooler than you, sure. but she’s not, like, untouchable. she talks to lucas all the time, right?❞
❝lucas is on the team.❞
❝exactly. so you already have a connection.❞
max smirked. ❝just go up to her and say, ❝hi, i’m mike, and i think you’re really pretty. want to hang out sometime?❞ see? easy.❞
❝not easy,❞ i muttered. ❝she’d laugh in my face.❞
❝or,❞ dustin said, ❝she might not. look, dude, the worst that can happen is she says no.❞
i didn’t want to admit it, but they were right.
it took another week — and a shit ton of convincing — but eventually, i agreed to let them help me.
max decided the best plan was to catch you after school when you weren’t surrounded by your cheer squad or basketball players. i was already regretting this.
we spotted you at your locker, stuffing books into your bag.
❝okay,❞ max whispered. ❝just walk up and say hi. be normal. don’t overthink it.❞
❝don’t overthink it,❞ i repeated under my breath. easy for her to say. my palms were sweaty, and my heart was pounding like i’d just run a mile.
i approached slowly, each step feeling heavier than the last.
❝uh, hey,❞ i blurted out when i reached you. smooth. real smooth.
you looked up, surprised but not annoyed. ❝oh, hey. mike, right?❞
you knew my name? that alone nearly made me short - circuit.
❝yeah, that’s me,❞ i said, my voice cracking slightly. i cleared my throat. ❝uh, i just … i wanted to say hi.❞
❝hi,❞ you said, smiling. ❝how’s it going?❞
❝good! great. i mean, yeah. you?❞
you laughed softly, and it was the nicest sound i’d ever heard. ❝i’m good. tired, though. practice was brutal today.❞
❝yeah, i bet,❞ i said, nodding like an idiot. then, before i could chicken out, i added, ❝so, uh, i was wondering if … maybe you’d want to hang out sometime? like, get a milkshake or something?❞
your eyebrows raised, and for a second, i thought i’d made a huge mistake. but then you smiled again, and it felt like the sun had come out.
❝sure, mike. that sounds fun.❞
❝really?❞
❝really,❞ you said, pulling a pen from your bag and scribbling your number on a scrap of paper. ❝call me, okay?❞
i nodded, speechless, as you handed me the paper and walked away.
later, dustin and max found me standing in the same spot, still holding the paper like it was a golden ticket.
❝you did it!❞ dustin cheered, clapping me on the back.
max smirked. ❝told you it wasn’t that hard.❞
maybe it wasn’t. but to me, it felt like a miracle.
© MINA LEIGH 2023 - 2024
🖤 ₊˚⊹ — make up
parring ➵ draco malfoy x m!reader
summary ➵ you like to fuck with him, just to make up with him.
warnings ➵ slight suggestive language/content!
age parring ➵ 17 - 18
extra ➵ slytherin & dominate reader. credits to @cafekitsune for banners!
many peers from any house can presume that your relationship with malfoy was endearing. unexpected definitely, but truely endearing.
dating draco was a bit difficult, he is arrogant, stubborn, has an extremely high ego, one prejudiced son of a bitch, and he constantly refuses to be manhandled in front of his fellow slytherins’.
one particular day, you had just entered the familiar common room after a long day of studying for a upcoming exam coming up later that same week.
you had also made the trip for another reason other than to study, to get your mind of your brat of a boyfriend.
but we aren’t gonna tell him are we?
you entered slumping on a arm chair, pulling our parchment after parchment of notes splattered with jet black ink.
around this time of the year, the common room being not full was expected due to exams.
you sighed and rested your chin on top of your hand. draco locking eyes with you as he came up to you.
❝ hey (l/n) ❞ he whispered as he sat his pretty little self on top of the arm rest.
you only looked up at him and raised your eyebrows as you got back to reviewing your work.
he began blabbing about harry potter, as usual. that would’ve never gotten you bothered but it was almost as if he was more interested and concerned about him more than his own boyfriend.
you groaned, proving that you weren’t listening to him.
❝ hey, what in merlin’s name is wrong with you? ❞
you scoffed as you discarded your parchments and dragged him down onto your lap, wrapping your arm around his waist. he yelped in looked around the room in habit.
❝ you constantly talk about harry, it pisses me off draco. ❞
he gulped, eyebrows furrowed, and looking down at your lips moving as you had more to say.
❝ besides you did the thing, where you check to see if anyone is around when i try to be affectionate with you! ❞
you began scolding him, he tried touching you to see if that were to able to calm you down. to no avail.
you snatched his wrist before he can touch your face.
❝look at you now, all hot and bothered.❞ you smirked as he huffed and tried to get off you.
that resulted in you propping him up, holding him up with you hands on his ass.
❝ h-huh? ❞ he gasped in response, wrapping his legs around your waist. also holding you tightly around your neck not wanting to embarrass himself anymore longer.
❝ stop it, your being annoying right now! ❞ he yelped out in a whine.
❝ draco’s so cute when he’s angry isn’t he? ❞ you teased him as you made it to your dorm dropping him into your bed getting on top of him in the process.
❝ stop it now! ❞ he growls.
you yanked on his blonde locks, forcing him to face you and you began.
❝ stop mentioning potter like he is your boyfriend you bitch boy malfoy. ❞ you scoffed at him, using his surname for extra measure.
his gaze softened as he looked up at you lips trembling, nodding profusely not wanting to anger you anymore.
❝ mhm! ❞ he whimpers, expressing his discomfort with your hair pulling.
you let go and grab his chin, adoring the cute little features draco was blessed with.
❝ you’re gorgeous yknow that? ❞ you smile at his watering eyes.
you turn him over, now him on top of you, your hand roaming under his robes.
you grabbed his chin with your other free hand and kissed him. draco melted.
he leaned forward accepting the kiss, heat rushing down his cheeks. your chests pressed together.
you only escalated by placing your hands on his ass, as you groped them.
let’s just say he never brought up the chosen one again.
୨⎯ 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡 ⎯୧
— CINNAMON GIRL ⁷
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , keith matthews 𝔁 f! reader | wc 1000
summary. two - bit’s perspective on y/n, highlighting her ability to see through his jokester persona and remind him of his worth. through two-bit’s eyes, we see how y/n’s kindness and understanding make her an irreplaceable part of their makeshift family.
labels. two - bit’s point of view.
warnings. lighthearted tone with underlying mentions of insecurity, two - bit’s reflections on his role in the group, and his deep admiration for y/n.
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. second to last chapter! thank you everyone for reading all the way to this point! reblogs are very much appreciated! lots of love ♡
most people think i’m all jokes and no depth. and hey, i get it. it’s easier that way — crack a joke, lighten the mood, and nobody asks too many questions. but y/n? she never fell for that act.
she sees right through me, every damn time.
i think the first time i realized how much y/n mattered to me was when we were all hanging out at the curtis house. soda and steve were arguing over some car part, pony was reading, and darry was working on god - knows - what in the kitchen. i was sitting there, flipping through a comic, when y/n came in with her brothers, charlie and matteo.
the second she walked through the door, the whole place felt … brighter. not in a cheesy, lovey-dovey way, ok maybe .. but like she just brought this energy with her that made everything a little better.
❝two-bit,❞ she said, smiling at me. ❝you’re not causing trouble, are you?❞
❝me? trouble?❞ i grinned, holding up my hands. ❝i’m an angel, y/n. pure as the driven snow.❞
she laughed, shaking her head. ❝sure you are.❞
that laugh, man. it’s the kind of laugh that makes you feel like you’ve done something right, even if you’ve been screwing up all day.
y/n gets my humor in a way not many people do. most folks think i’m just trying to be funny for the sake of it, but she knows there’s more to it than that.
one time, i was sitting on the curb outside the dx, cracking jokes with soda while we waited for steve to get off work. y/n showed up, carrying a bag of snacks for her brothers, and sat down next to me.
❝what’s so funny?❞ she asked, tilting her head.
❝just telling soda about the time darry tried to fix that leaky faucet and flooded the kitchen,❞ i said, grinning.
she chuckled, but then her expression softened. ❝you always know how to make people laugh, two-bit. it’s a good thing.❞
i shrugged, leaning back on my hands. ❝somebody’s gotta do it. keeps things from getting too heavy, you know?❞
she didn’t say anything for a minute, just looked at me like she was trying to figure something out.
here she goes again.
❝you know it’s okay to let things be heavy sometimes, right?❞ she said finally, her voice quiet.
i didn’t know how to respond to that, so i just nodded, my throat feeling tighter than it should have.
y/n’s got this way of grounding me, even when i don’t realize i need it. it’s not like she tells me what to do or anything — she just … reminds me that i’m more than the jokes i make.
like the time i got into a fight with some socs. it wasn’t a big deal or anything, but i ended up with a busted lip and a bruise on my cheek. when i showed up at the curtis house, trying to laugh it off, y/n wasn’t having it.
❝two-bit, what happened?❞ she asked, her brow furrowing as she stepped closer.
❝nothing,❞ i said, waving her off. ❝just had a little disagreement with some rich boys, that’s all.❞
she didn’t buy it for a second.
❝sit down,❞ she said, her tone leaving no room for argument.
i sat, mostly because it was y/n and not darry telling me what to do. she grabbed a washcloth and started cleaning up the cut on my lip, her touch gentle but firm.
❝you don’t have to act like it doesn’t hurt, you know,❞ she said after a moment.
❝i’m fine,❞ i muttered, but the way she looked at me made me feel like maybe i wasn’t.
the thing about y/n is, she’s not just kind — she’s smart, too. she knows when to push and when to back off, and she always seems to know exactly what to say.
like the time i was feeling like i didn’t really belong in the group. everyone else had their thing — darry was the leader, soda was the charmer, pony was the brains, and even johnny had this quiet strength about him. me? i was just the guy who made everyone laugh.
i was sitting on the porch, nursing a beer and feeling sorry for myself, when y/n came out and sat down next to me.
❝what’s got you so quiet?❞ she asked, nudging me with her shoulder.
❝nothing,❞ i said, taking a sip of my drink.
❝doesn’t sound like nothing,❞ she replied, her tone light but probing.
i sighed, staring at the ground. ❝sometimes i feel like … i don’t know. like i’m just the clown of the group, you know? like i’m not really good for anything else.❞
she was quiet for a moment, and i braced myself for some kind of pitying response.
❝you know that’s not true, right?❞ she said finally. ❝you’re the heart of this group, two-bit. you keep us all together, even when things get rough.❞
her words hit me harder than i expected, and for once, i didn’t have a joke to make.
❝thanks, y/n,❞ i said quietly, my voice rough.
❝anytime,❞ she replied, her smile soft and genuine.
if you ask me, y/n’s the glue that holds us all together. she’s always there, always making sure we’re okay, even when she’s got her own stuff to deal with.
she’s not just a friend — she’s family. and i’d do anything to make sure she knows that.
© MINA LEIGH 2024 - 2025
. . . prologue darry curtis sodapop curtis ponyboy curtis
dallas winston johnny cade steve randle you’re here! final
— BEN’S BUNKER
written by mina leigh 𝜗᭪ , losers club 𝔁 f! reader | wc 2300
summary. spending time the your bestest friends in the world, in ben’s surprise hideout for the losers club. a stronger bond flourishing inside!
labels. feminine reader, happy go lucky girl, shy cute girly girl reader, no definite description of reader, she/her pronouns used, reader is closer to richie toizer & eddie kaspbrak.
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. hey everyone! i was rewatching it 2019 and me being the self indulgent person i am, i started fantasizing about us (readers) being with the losers! lots of love.
summer days in derry had a special kind of magic, one that was even stronger when you spent them with the losers club. today, ben had promised a surprise, and you couldn’t wait to see what he had in store. the air was thick with excitement as you all made your way through the woods, your heart fluttering with anticipation.
❝ are we there yet? ❞ richie’s voice rang out, filled with mock impatience. you were walking beside him, as usual, and his playful energy was contagious. you couldn’t help but smile.
❝ yeah, ben, how much further? ❞ eddie added, swatting away a mosquito with a grimace. you could tell eddie was getting antsy, but his curiosity kept him moving forward. you gave him a reassuring smile, hoping to ease his nerves. richie noticed and nudged you with his elbow, his grin wide.
❝ you know, eds, (y/n) here could probably carry you if you get too tired, ❞ richie teased, earning a light smack on the arm from eddie.
❝ shut up, richie, ❞ eddie muttered, but you could see the corners of his mouth twitching as he tried to hide a smile. you laughed softly, loving the way they always managed to make you feel at ease, even when they were bickering.
finally, ben stopped in front of a large thicket, and your curiosity peaked. he pushed aside some branches, revealing a hidden entrance. ❝ here it is, ❞ your eyes widened as you stepped through the opening. inside was a large, cozy space, bigger than you’d expected. there were shelves full of books, soft blankets, and a huge hammock strung up in one corner, large enough for several people. the place felt like a secret clubhouse, one that was just for you and your friends.
❝ ben, this is amazing! ❞ you exclaimed, your voice filled with awe. you turned to look at him, and he blushed slightly, clearly pleased with your reaction.
❝ yeah, ben, this is awesome, ❞ mike added, already exploring the different corners of the hideout. ❝ you really outdid yourself. ❞
❝ i thought it would be nice to have a place just for us, ❞ ben said, his voice warm with affection. ❝ a place where we can hang out and just be ourselves. ❞
richie immediately made a beeline for the hammock, his eyes lighting up with excitement. ❝ dibs on the hammock! ❞ he shouted, flopping down onto it with a dramatic sigh of contentment. you laughed and followed him over, sitting down on the edge of the hammock.
❝ you’re such an ass, ❞ eddie grumbled, but he couldn’t resist joining you both. he climbed onto the hammock, settling in beside you with a huff. you found yourself sandwiched between richie and eddie, feeling the gentle sway of the hammock as they playfully jostled each other.
❝ careful, you’re gonna tip us over, ❞ you warned, your voice filled with laughter. richie just grinned at you, his arm draping casually around your shoulders.
❝ don’t worry, (y/n), i’ve got you, ❞ he said, his tone teasing but affectionate. you leaned into him, feeling the warmth of his body against yours. on your other side, eddie was muttering under his breath about how richie was being annoying, but you could tell he was just as happy to be there.
as you lay there, the three of you fell into a comfortable rhythm. richie and eddie kept up their usual banter, tossing playful insults back and forth while you relaxed between them. their voices became a soothing background noise, and you found your eyelids growing heavy as the hammock rocked gently beneath you.
❝ hey, richie, do you ever shut up? ❞ eddie grumbled, though there was no real bite to his words. he was more focused on making sure you were comfortable, adjusting a blanket around you with a careful hand.
❝ only when i’m asleep, eds, ❞ richie shot back, his grin widening as he caught your eye. ❝ and even then, i’m sure i’m the most entertaining sleeper around. ❞
❝ if you say so, ❞ eddie muttered, but you could see the fondness in his eyes as he looked at you. ❝ (y/n), how do you put up with him? ❞ with an exaggerated sigh.
you just smiled, feeling the warmth of their friendship surrounding you like a protective shield. ❝ i guess i’m just lucky, ❞ you replied softly, your voice filled with contentment.
eventually, the steady rhythm of their voices and the gentle sway of the hammock lulled you into a peaceful nap. richie’s arm was still draped over your shoulders, and eddie’s presence beside you was a comforting anchor. as you drifted off to sleep, you felt completely safe, knowing that your best friends were right there with you.
when you woke up, the sun had shifted, casting a warm, golden light through the small windows of the hideout. you blinked sleepily, realizing that richie and eddie had fallen asleep too, their heads resting against yours. the hammock was still gently swaying, and for a moment, you just enjoyed the quiet peace of the moment.
after a while, you carefully extricated yourself from the hammock, trying not to wake richie and eddie. they both stirred slightly but didn’t wake up, so you quietly tiptoed away, leaving them to their nap. as you looked around the hideout, you noticed bill, stan, and mike sitting together on a pile of blankets, engrossed in their books.
❝ h-hey, (y/n), want to j-j-join us? ❞ bill asked, glancing up from his book with a welcoming smile. you nodded, making your way over to them. you sat down beside stan, who gave you a small, shy smile as he handed you one of the books from the shelf.
❝ thank you, stan, ❞ you said softly, returning his smile. he nodded, his eyes already back on his book.
you opened the book and quickly became absorbed in the story, losing yourself in the world of words. the four of you read in companionable silence, the only sounds being the rustle of pages turning and the occasional soft murmur as one of you reacted to something in the story.
after a while, you felt a gentle tap on your shoulder. looking up, you saw beverly smiling down at you. ❝ hey, (y/n), can i steal you for a bit? ❞ she asked, her voice warm.
❝ okay, ❞ you replied, closing your book and setting it aside. you stood up and followed bev over to where ben was working on some project with a hammer and nails.
❝ we could use some extra hands, ❞ bev said, handing you a hammer. ❝ ben’s been teaching me how to build stuff, and i thought you might want to join in. ❞
you smiled, feeling a surge of gratitude for beverly’s thoughtfulness. ❝ i’d love to help, ❞ you said, taking the hammer and kneeling down beside ben.
❝ thanks, (y/n), ❞ ben said, giving you a grateful smile. ❝ we’re just reinforcing some of the shelves and adding a few more. it’s a lot of work, but it’s worth it. ❞
❝ definitely, ❞ you agreed, already feeling a sense of accomplishment as you began hammering nails into place. as you worked, bev chatted with you about all sorts of things—clothes, movies, and boys. it was nice to have some girl time, and you found yourself opening up to her in a way you hadn’t before.
❝ you know, (y/n), ❞ bev said, her voice turning a bit more serious, ❝ i’m really glad you’re part of the losers club. you bring something special to the group, and i just want you to know that you’re really important to all of us. ❞
you felt your cheeks flush with warmth at her words, and you looked down at the hammer in your hands, suddenly feeling a bit shy. ❝ thanks, beverly, you said softly. ❝ that means a lot. ❞
she smiled at you, her eyes filled with kindness. ❝ it’s true. don’t ever doubt it, okay? ❞
you nodded, feeling a swell of affection for your friend. as the two of you continued working, you couldn’t help but feel grateful for the bond you shared with the losers club. they were more than just friends—they were family, and you knew that no matter what, you’d always have each other’s backs.
after finishing up with the shelves, you and bev stepped back to admire your work. ❝ not bad, ❞ ben said, clearly pleased with the results. ❝ this place is really coming together. ❞
❝ it really is, ❞ you agreed, feeling a sense of pride in what you’d accomplished. ❝ i’m glad i could help. ❞
❝ you did great, ❞ bev said, giving you a friendly nudge. ❝ now, how about we take a break? i think we’ve earned it. ❞
you nodded, feeling a bit tired but happy. as you made your way back to the main area of the hideout, you noticed that richie and eddie had finally woken up and were now bickering playfully as usual.
❝ hey, sleepyheads, ❞ you called out, giggling as you approached them. ❝ have a nice nap? ❞
❝ the best, ❞ richie replied with a wink, stretching his arms above his head. ❝ but we missed you, (y/n). it’s not the same without our favorite girl around. ❞
❝ yeah, we woke up and you were gone, ❞ eddie added, his voice mock-petulant. ❝ don’t do that again. ❞
you laughed, feeling the warmth of their affection wrap around you like a cozy blanket. ❝ don’t worry, i’m not going anywhere. ❞
the rest of the day passed in a blur of laughter, stories, and moments that you knew you’d treasure forever. by the time the sun began to set, casting a warm golden light over the hideout, you felt completely at peace.
as you all gathered together in the hideout, huddled close on the blankets and bean bags, you couldn’t help but marvel at how lucky you were. the losers club wasn’t just a group of friends—they were your home, your family, your safe haven in a world that could be so full of darkness.
and as you sat there, surrounded by the people who meant the most to you, you knew that no matter what the future held, you’d always stick by their side as much as they stuck to yours.
© MINA LEIGH 2023 - 2024
ur elliot x m reader fic was so fire .,,, i hope u make more of it 🙏
— SHOONG
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , elliot fike 𝔁 m! reader | wc 1100
summary. jules was on her way home, riding her bike she passed by your house. she nearly fell off puzzled and a small chuckle of disbelief came out her mouth as she saw you embrace elliot and kiss his lips, after you denied being more than friends with him. which leads the both of you getting interrogated by her and rue.
labels. awkward like very awkward, emotionally mature reader, stubborn reader, y/n is obsessed with elliot, heart eyes for elliot, shy elliot, reader is more physically and emotionally expressive than elliot.
warnings.
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. i just needed to write something with elliot & male reader after remembering elliot admitted he fucked ❝ 4 to 3 ❞ guys when jules was interrogating him. sorry it isn’t to like smutty, hope you enjoy it either way. ♡
jules’s bike tires squeaked as she rode past the familiar stretch of your street, a shortcut she took almost every day. but something caught her eye today, something that nearly made her lose balance. her gaze snapped to the two figures standing near your front porch. she squinted, thinking maybe her mind was playing tricks on her.
but no. it was real. you — y/n —were standing too close to elliot, closer than just friends should. your hands gripped his jacket, your head tilted slightly, and then — oh god —you kissed him. on the lips.
her heart jumped, and she laughed under her breath, disbelief washing over her. she had asked, so many times, if there was more going on between the two of you. and every time, you denied it, brushing it off like it was ridiculous. but here you were, making out with elliot on your porch like it was nothing.
jules sped up, shaking her head. she knew exactly who to call.
you could feel elliot’s heart beating fast under your palm, the rise and fall of his chest uneven. his lips were soft, hesitant against yours, and you pulled back slightly, studying his expression.
❝are you okay?❞ you asked softly, your voice warm, concerned.
elliot blinked a few times, cheeks flushed. ❝yeah … just not used to this.❞
you smiled, brushing his messy hair back. ❝you’ll get used to it.❞
he bit his lip, eyes darting around nervously. ❝i mean … us. people seeing us like this.❞
you rolled your eyes, giving him a playful shove. ❝we’re just two guys on a porch. who cares?❞
before he could respond, the front door banged open. you jumped back as if caught doing something illegal. there they were jules and rue, both staring at you, their faces a mix of amusement and shock.
rue was standing with the fattest fucking smirk on her face.
jules crossed her arms, eyebrow raised. ❝just friends, huh?❞
you froze, your mouth opening but no sound coming out. elliot scratched the back of his neck, glancing between the two girls and you. rue just smirked, clearly enjoying this too much.
❝looks like someone has some explaining to do, you caught bro❞ rue said, leaning casually against the doorframe.
you sighed, rubbing your face. ❝okay, fine. just .. come in. ❞
the four of you sat in your living room, the air so thick with awkward tension you could almost cut it with a knife. elliot sat beside you, his knee bouncing nervously. jules and rue perched on the couch across from you, their eyes laser - focused.
jules leaned forward, her voice slow and deliberate. ❝so. y/n. care to explain why you’ve been lying to us?❞
❝i wasn’t lying,❞ you mumbled, avoiding eye contact.
❝oh, really?❞ she laughed bitterly. ❝because i distinctly remember asking if there was anything between you two. and you were like, ‘oh no, we’re just friends.’❞ making her voice ten times deeper as if she was mocking you purposely.
rue chuckles at that, fucking bitch you thought.
❝we were just friends,❞ you argued, glancing at elliot. his face was beet red, his hands clasped tightly in his lap. ❝things … changed, i don’t fucking know.❞
rue snorted. ❝yeah, clearly.❞
❝i hate you.❞
❝i love ya too.❞
elliot finally spoke up, his voice quiet but firm. ❝it wasn’t something we planned. it just … happened.❞
jules narrowed her eyes at him. ❝so you’ve been sneaking around?❞
❝i mean, i wouldn’t call it that .. nah.❞
❝no!❞ you protested. ❝we weren’t sneaking around. we just didn’t think it was anyone’s business.❞
jules stared at you, her expression softening just a little. ❝you know we’re your friends, right? you didn’t have to hide this.❞
❝it be your own people ..❞ rue sighed, joking attempting to ease the tension.
i mean elliot made a amused expression. it worked kinda.
you sighed, leaning back against the couch. ❝i wasn’t trying to hide it. i just … didn’t know how to explain it. elliot’s different. i’m different with him.❞
elliot turned to you, his eyes wide and surprised. you hadn’t really said that out loud before.
jules looked between the two of you, her gaze softening even more. ❝okay, fine. but next time, don’t lie to me. or rue. we deserve to know what’s going on in your life.❞
rue grinned. ❝yeah, especially if it’s like really fucking crazy.❞
you rolled your eyes but smiled. elliot finally relaxed beside you, his knee stopping its nervous bouncing.
❝so,❞ jules said, leaning back. ❝how long has this been going on?❞
elliot shrugged, looking to you. ❝a few weeks?❞
you nodded. ❝yeah, something like that.❞
rue chuckled. ❝damn. and here i thought y/n was all emotionally mature. guess even he can be stubborn.❞
❝i’m not stubborn,❞ you muttered.
elliot smirked, finally relaxing enough to tease you. ❝you kinda are.❞
it deadass be your own people …
you shot him a look but couldn’t help smiling. ❝fine. maybe a little. but only because you make it hard to think straight.❞
his face turned red again, and jules and rue burst out laughing.
❝oh my god, you two are so corny,❞ jules said, shaking her head.
❝yeah, but it’s cute,❞ rue added.
elliot leaned closer to you, whispering, ❝you okay?❞
you nodded, squeezing his hand. ❝yeah. we’re okay.❞
jules cleared her throat dramatically. ❝well, we’re glad you two figured it out. just… don’t keep secrets like that again, okay?❞
❝promise,❞ you said.
elliot nodded. ❝promise.❞
as they got up to leave, rue winked at you. ❝laters, use protection, chlamydia is in these days. ❞
you groaned, ❝get the fuck outta my house rue ...❞
elliot laughed softly, his fingers still laced with yours. and for once, everything felt right.
© MINA LEIGH 2023 - 2024
🖤 ₊˚⊹ — draco & harry falling love with a prince would be like..
parring ➵ d.malfoy & h.potter x m!reader
summary ➵ both boys are undeniably in love with you, they are aware of your fondness for the both of them. which arose another rivalry between the boys.
age of parring ➵ 15 - 16
warnings ➵ n/a
extra ➵ credits to @cafekitsune for banners! this is lowkey self - indulgent. hope any of you recognize where the last name(s) is from :)) house neutral.
what a dashing young man you were, truly. that statement alone was what all students who have been attending hogwarts school of witchcraft and wizardry were thinking.
you were born into a royal family, many of whom happened to be absorbed into the remedy called magic.
a prince, if you will. y/n hanover - stuart fox.
you step off the gleaming hogwarts express, your arrival greeted with a mixture of curiosity and awe. as an american prince, your presence is already a subject of fascination, but being part of the most powerful magical family in the world adds an aura of mystique around you. your handsome features, kind demeanor, and humble nature quickly win over your peers, and soon, you become one of the most popular students at hogwarts.
from the moment you set foot in the castle, you catch the attention of two notable boys: draco malfoy and harry potter. both are drawn to your charisma and power, each wanting you on their side for different reasons. draco, with his aristocratic upbringing, sees in you a kindred spirit, someone who understands the burdens of legacy. harry, on the other hand, sees in you a beacon of hope and strength, someone who could be an ally in his fight against darkness.
despite their initial intentions, both boys find themselves genuinely drawn to you. draco’s haughty demeanor softens when he’s around you, revealing a vulnerable side he seldom shows. harry’s wariness fades, replaced by a deep admiration and affection. as you navigate the halls of hogwarts, you find yourself forming bonds with both of them, enjoying their company and the unique qualities each brings into your life.
draco invites you to the slytherin common room, where you sit by the fire, discussing pureblood traditions and magical theory. bis eyes often linger on you, a mixture of envy and desire clear in his gaze. he’s captivated by your strength and poise, finding himself falling deeper each day.
harry, meanwhile, introduces you to his world of adventure and camaraderie. you join him in gryffindor’s lively common room, surrounded by warmth and laughter. his friends, ron and hermione, quickly accept you into their circle. Harry’s eyes light up whenever you’re near, his admiration for you evident in every glance and smile.
as time passes, both boys become increasingly aware of their feelings for you and the fact that you hold them both in high regard. this realization sparks a new rivalry between them, each vying for your attention and affection. draco’s subtle gestures of care and protection become more pronounced, while harry’s moments of bravery and loyalty shine even brighter in your presence.
one evening, after a particularly intense quidditch match where both boys played spectacularly, they each confide in their closest friends. draco, in the slytherin common room, speaks quietly to pansy and blaise, his voice tinged with frustration and longing. harry, in the gryffindor dormitory, shares his feelings with ron and hermione, his expression a mixture of hope and anxiety.
finally, the day comes when they can no longer keep their emotions bottled up. you find yourself in a quiet corner of the library, surrounded by towering bookshelves and the faint scent of parchment. draco and harry approach you together, their faces set with determination yet softened by their undeniable affection for you.
“can we talk?” draco begins, his usual confidence faltering as he glances at harry, then back at you.
harry nods, his green eyes earnest and pleading. “we both need to tell you something,” he says, his voice steady but filled with emotion.
you listen intently as they each pour out their hearts, confessing their love for you with a vulnerability that touches you deeply. draco’s usual arrogance is replaced by a raw honesty, while harry’s bravery shines through his nervousness. Both boys look at you with pleading eyes, desperately seeking your attention, affection, and perhaps even a relationship.
standing between them, you feel the weight of their feelings and the intensity of their emotions. you know that your response will shape the path ahead, not only for you but for them as well. with a deep breath, you prepare to speak, your heart open to the possibilities that lie before you.
“i always liked - no, loved the both of you so much.”
୨⎯ 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡 ⎯୧
2knightt is my fav outsider content blog ^_^
i have two polls and tou guys literally have to answer
like with dallas for example. YOU’RE the dallas in this universe and he’s YOU. like he’s totally obsessing over fictional you and is absolutely whipped for you after watching the movie ur in. id that makes sense
— CINNAMON GIRL ⁵
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , johnny cade 𝔁 f! reader | wc 1000
summary. johnny’s perspective on y/n, showcasing her role as a source of comfort and hope in his life. through johnny’s eyes, we see how her kindness and warmth help him navigate the darkness he faces, giving him a sense of belonging he’s never had before.
labels. johnny’s point of view.
warnings. mentions of abuse, trauma, and johnny’s feelings of worthlessness; themes of comfort and healing.
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. how is everyone enjoying this project? i hope previous and new readers are enjoying this as much as i am. are you having a great new year so far? lots of love, mina leigh ♡
most people look at me and see nothing. a kid who’s scared of his own shadow. a nobody. it’s easier that way, i guess. less expectations, less disappointments. but y/n’s never looked at me like that. not once.
she’s got this way about her — soft, sweet, like sunlight breaking through the clouds. it doesn’t matter how dark things get; when she’s around, it’s like i can breathe again.
the first time i met her, i was sure she’d ignore me like everyone else. i was sitting on the curtis’ front steps, trying to make myself invisible while the guys joked around inside.
she walked up the driveway, her arms full of books and groceries, and i tried not to stare. she was beautiful in a way that didn’t make sense in our world, like she belonged in a painting or something.
❝hey, you must be johnny,❞ she said, her voice soft but certain. ❝i’ve heard a lot about you.❞
i blinked up at her, unsure how to respond. people didn’t usually talk to me unless they had to, let alone someone like her.
❝uh … hi,❞ i mumbled, looking down at my shoes.
❝a shy one are you? you’re so cute, you remind me of my little brother charlie.❞
she smiled, and it wasn’t one of those fake smiles people give when they feel sorry for you. it was real, warm.
❝it’s nice to finally meet you,❞ she said. ❝the guys talk about you all the time. they care about you a lot, you know.❞
i didn’t know what to say to that, so i just nodded, my throat tight.
y/n’s different from anyone i’ve ever known. she doesn’t treat me like i’m broken, like i’m some kind of charity case. she treats me like i’m just … me.
there was this one time when i showed up at the curtis house after another fight with my parents. my dad had hit me again, and my mom had screamed at me until i couldn’t take it anymore. i didn’t know where else to go.
y/n was there, sitting on the couch with ponyboy. she looked up when she saw me, her expression softening.
❝johnny,❞ she said, standing up and walking over to me. ❝what happened?❞
i shrugged, trying to act like it wasn’t a big deal. ❝nothing. just … needed to get out for a while.❞
she didn’t push, didn’t ask any more questions. she just took my hand and led me to the kitchen, where she made me sit down and handed me a glass of water.
❝you don’t have to talk about it,❞ she said, her voice gentle. ❝but you’re safe here, okay? no one’s going to hurt you.❞
i nodded, the lump in my throat making it impossible to speak.
she’s always been like that, y/n. never forcing me to say or do anything, just letting me be. it’s not something i’m used to, and sometimes it scares me.
i remember one night when we were sitting outside, just the two of us. the stars were out, and the air was cool. i was quiet, like always, and she was humming some tune under her breath.
❝do you ever wish you could just … disappear?❞ i asked suddenly, the words slipping out before i could stop them.
she turned to look at me, her eyes full of something i couldn’t quite place.
she hesitates.
❝sometimes,❞ she said softly. ❝but then i remember all the people who’d miss me if i did.❞
i looked away, my chest tightening. ❝i don’t think anyone would miss me.❞
she reached over, her hand resting lightly on mine. ❝that’s not true, johnny. i’d miss you. the guys would miss you. you matter more than you know.❞
her words hit me like a punch to the gut, and i didn’t know what to do with them. no one had ever said anything like that to me before.
❝oh johnnycake! don’t make me cry ..❞
y/n’s got this way of making you believe things you didn’t think were possible. like maybe, just maybe, there’s something good in the world after all.
there was this one time when we were all hanging out at the lot, just messing around. i was sitting off to the side, watching the guys goof off, when y/n walked over and sat down next to me.
❝why don’t you join them?❞ she asked, tilting her head.
i shrugged. ❝i’m not really good at that stuff.❞
she smiled, nudging me gently. ❝you don’t have to be. they’re your friends, johnny. they like having you around, even if you’re just sitting here.❞
i didn’t say anything, but her words stuck with me.
y/n’s like a light in the darkness, and sometimes i wonder how someone like her ended up here, with us. she’s too good for this world, too good for me.
but she never makes me feel like i don’t belong. when she looks at me, i don’t feel like a scared kid or a screw - up. i just feel … safe.
and that’s something i’ll never take for granted.
© MINA LEIGH 2024 - 2025
. . . prologue darry curtis sodapop curtis ponyboy curtis
dallas winston you’re here! steve randle two - bit matthews
— CINNAMON GIRL ³
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , ponyboy curtis 𝔁 f! reader | wc 1000
summary. ponyboy reflects on y/n toizer’s unique ability to bring comfort and understanding into his life. he explores how her presence fills the void left by his parents and how she helps him navigate the complexities of growing up.
labels. ponyboy’s point of view.
warnings. mentions of grief, reflections on loneliness, and moments of vulnerability.
sometimes, it feels like i’m stuck in the middle of two worlds. darry’s world of responsibility and soda’s world of ease. then there’s me — floating somewhere in between, not sure where i’m supposed to land. i try to find peace in my books, in writing, in the quiet moments when everything isn’t so loud. but even then, it gets lonely.
that’s where y/n comes in. she has this way of making you feel seen, like you’re not just another face in the crowd. she listens when no one else does, really listens, and it’s something i’ve come to count on. she’s more than a friend; she’s family.
it was a saturday afternoon, and the house was unusually quiet. soda was at work, darry was fixing something in the garage, and i was stretched out on the couch with a copy of great expectations. the pages were worn, the spine cracked from years of reading and rereading, but it was still my favorite escape.
i was so lost in the story that i didn’t hear the door open until y/n’s soft voice broke through my thoughts.
❝you and your books, pony. always in another world.❞
❝that’s my favorite thing about you though.❞
i looked up, startled, but her smile put me at ease. she was standing in the doorway, her hands full of grocery bags.
❝what are you doing here?❞ i asked, setting the book down.
❝someone has to make sure you boys eat something other than bologna sandwiches,❞ she teased, walking into the kitchen.
❝you’re a lifesaver, i was just getting sick of bologna!❞
i followed her, taking the bags from her hands and setting them on the counter. ❝anyway, we’re fine, you know. darry’s been cooking more.❞
❝oh, i’m sure,❞ she said, her tone playful but unconvinced.
as she started unpacking the groceries, i leaned against the counter, watching her. there was something calming about the way she moved, like she belonged here, like she’d always been a part of our lives.
❝you don’t have to keep taking care of us, y/n,❞ i said after a moment. ❝we’re not little kids anymore.❞
she paused, looking over at me with a soft smile. ❝maybe not, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need someone looking out for you. and i don’t mind, pony. you guys are my family.❞
her words settled something in me, a reassurance i didn’t know i needed.
i love her so much, i hope darry marries her in the future.
later that day, after darry had joined us for dinner, y/n and i ended up sitting on the porch steps. the sun was setting, casting the sky in shades of orange and pink. it was quiet, the kind of quiet that felt full instead of empty.
❝do you ever feel like you don’t belong?❞ i asked, the words slipping out before i could stop them.
she looked at me, her expression thoughtful. ❝what makes you say that?❞
i shrugged, picking at a loose thread on my jeans. ❝i don’t know. it’s like … darry has his responsibilities, soda has his charm, and i just … i don’t fit. i’m not like them.❞
she was quiet for a moment, and i wondered if i’d said too much. but then she spoke, her voice soft but firm.
❝ponyboy curtis, you belong just as much as anyone else. you don’t have to be like darry or soda. you’re your own person, and that’s more than enough.❞
her words hit me in a way nothing else had. i looked at her, my throat tight, and nodded.
❝thanks, y/n,❞ i said quietly.
she reached over, brushing a strand of hair out of my face. ❝anytime, pony.❞
my face quickly warmed up as she kissed my forehead.
one of my favorite things about y/n is how she never makes me feel silly for the things i care about. when i talk about books or poetry, she listens like it’s the most important thing in the world. it’s a rare thing, to be understood like that.
there was a time last summer when i was working on a poem for school. i was stuck, the words refusing to come no matter how hard i tried. y/n had stopped by, her arms full of lemonade and cookies.
mm, my favorite.
❝what’s got you so frustrated?❞ she asked, sitting down next to me at the kitchen table.
❝this stupid poem,❞ i muttered, shoving the paper away. ❝it’s supposed to be about something important, but i can’t think of anything.❞
she picked up the paper, reading the half-formed lines with a small smile. ❝why don’t you write about your parents? or your brothers?❞
i frowned, shaking my head. ❝it’s too hard.❞
❝then write about something that makes you happy,❞ she said simply. ❝write about the sunsets you love so much, or how it feels when you’re reading a good book. it doesn’t have to be perfect, pony. it just has to be you.❞
her advice stuck with me, not just for that poem but for everything else i wrote after. she made me believe that my voice mattered, even when i wasn’t sure it did.
as the night wore on and the stars came out, y/n stayed on the porch with me, talking about anything and everything. she told me stories about her brothers, about the antics charlie and matteo got into, and i told her about a new book i’d started reading.
it was easy, being with her. like all the worries and doubts faded away for a little while.
❝you’re gonna do great things, pony,❞ she said at one point, her voice full of certainty.
❝you think so?❞ i asked, my voice hesitant.
❝i know so,❞ she said, smiling at me.
and for the first time in a long time, i believed her.
© MINA LEIGH 2024 - 2025
. . . prologue darry curtis sodapop curtis you’re here!
dallas winston johnny cade steve randle two - bit matthews
— TASTE
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , nate jacobs𝔁 f! reader | wc 1800
summary. nate jacobs can't seem to let you go, even as he parades his relationship with cassie howard in front of everyone. behind closed doors, you're the one he runs to, the one he can't resist. every moment with cassie is tainted by your influence-your touch, your taste, your control over him. and you wouldn't have it any other way.
labels. ex reader, feminine reader, insecure cassie, manipulative nate, soft nate, etc
warnings. mature themes, infidelity, manipulation, explicit sexual content, toxic dynamics, emotional tension
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. based on sabrina’s first track off of her sixth studio album, short n’ sweet ♡
nate's presence was suffocating, the weight of his body pressing you into the plush carpet of your living room. his hands were everywhere at once-gripping your hips, sliding under your shirt, tugging you closer like he couldn't get enough.
you tilted your head back, a soft sigh escaping your lips as his mouth trailed down your neck. his lips were warm, insistent, leaving a path of heat in their wake.
❝you shouldn't be here,❞ you murmured, though your hands betrayed you, clutching at his shoulders.
nate didn't bother to respond. instead, he pushed you down flat against the carpet, pinning you beneath him with a smirk that sent a shiver through you.
❝stop pretending you don't want this,❞ he said, his voice low and gravelly, sending vibrations through the air between you.
his mouth moved lower, his tongue tracing patterns on your skin like he was creating art.
you tangled your fingers in his hair, pulling him closer as a quiet laugh slipped from your lips.
❝where'd you learn to do that?❞ you teased, your voice dripping with mock curiosity.
nate looked up at you, his eyes dark with something you couldn't quite name.
❝you know exactly where,❞ he said, his smirk growing wider.
your stomach flipped at the implication, your mind flashing to cassie.
poor, oblivious cassie.
you hated how easily nate unraveled you.
or maybe you didn't.
because when he was like this - hungry, desperate, completely at your mercy - it was hard to care about the mess he made of everything else.
later, when the two of you lay tangled together on the floor, his head resting on your stomach, you ran your fingers through his hair, enjoying the quiet.
❝what do you even tell her?❞ you asked, your voice soft but cutting.
nate didn't answer right away, his fingers tracing idle patterns on your thigh.
❝nothing she doesn't want to hear,❞ he said finally.
you laughed, a short, sharp sound.
❝and she believes you?❞
he shifted, propping himself up on one elbow to look at you.
❝she believes what she needs to,❞ he said, his tone matter-of-fact.
you shook your head, a small smile playing at your lips.
❝you're such a liar, nate.❞
meanwhile, cassie lay awake in bed, staring at the ceiling.
her phone sat untouched on the nightstand, the unanswered texts glaring back at her in the dark.
she told herself not to overthink it, to trust nate.
but the nagging feeling in her chest wouldn't go away.
you weren't sure when it had started — when nate became more yours than hers.
maybe it was the way he touched you, like he couldn't bear to let you go.
or maybe it was the way he talked about her, his voice filled with an odd mix of detachment and pity.
but most of all, it was the way he couldn't seem to stop coming back to you.
❝does she know?❞ you asked one night, your voice cutting through the quiet.
nate looked up from where he was tracing your collarbone with his lips.
❝know what?❞ he asked, his tone almost bored.
you smirked, tilting your head to meet his gaze.
❝that every time she kisses you, she's tasting me?❞
his lips twitched into a small smile, his hand sliding up to cradle your jaw.
❝no,❞ he said. ❝but i think she suspects.❞
it wasn't just physical between you and nate.
it was the way he looked at you, like you were the only thing keeping him grounded.
it was the way he talked to you, his voice softer, his words laced with a vulnerability he never showed anyone else.
and it was the way he let you see him — not the version of himself he showed the world, but the raw, unfiltered truth.
you didn't pity cassie.
she was a grown woman, making her own choices.
but there was a part of you — a small, quiet part - that wondered what it must be like to be her.
to be the one nate came home to.
to be the one he kissed in public, the one he called his.
but then you remembered the way he looked at you, the way he touched you, the way he came to you in the dead of night when no one else could see.
and you knew you had something she never would.
cassie stood in the kitchen, staring at the clock on the wall.
it was almost 3 a.m, and nate still hadn't come home.
she wanted to call him, to demand answers, but something stopped her.
she didn't want to hear the excuses, didn't want to confront the truth she was already beginning to suspect.
because deep down, she knew.
she'd always known.
when nate finally pulled himself away from you, the sun was just beginning to rise.
he sat on the edge of your bed, his back to you as he pulled on his shirt.
❝you don't have to go,❞ you said, your voice softer than you intended.
he turned to look at you, his expression unreadable.
❝yes, i do,❞ he said.
you nodded, biting the inside of your cheek to keep from saying anything else.
he leaned down, pressing a lingering kiss to your forehead before straightening up.
❝i'll see you soon,❞ he said.
and just like that, he was gone.
as you watched him drive away, a strange mix of emotions settled in your chest.
you told yourself it was the last time, that you wouldn't let him back in.
but deep down, you knew the truth.
he'd always come back to you.
because no matter where he went, no matter who he was with, he couldn't escape you.
you were the taste on his lips, the whisper in his ear, the ghost that haunted his every move.
and that was something no one - not even cassie - could take away.
© MINA LEIGH 2023 - 2024
can you do another popular!readerxmikewheeler blurb please?😊
— COINCIDENCE
written by mina leigh ୨ৎ , mike wheeler 𝔁 f! reader | wc 1400
summary. mike wheeler isn't the same boy he was last year. the hellfire club and d&d are his only escape from feeling like a nobody in his own school. she's hawkins high's brightest star, leading the cheer squad with a confidence that lights up every hallway, but when she stumbles upon mike during one of his campaign sessions, curiosity sparks-can two people from different worlds find common ground?
labels. popular cheerleader reader, extrovert reader, introvert mike, shy mike, touchy and affectionate reader.
warnings. add any if necessary
‧₊˚ ୨୧ mina speaks. sabrina carpenter’s short n sweet album. i love it! my favorite songs have to be taste, good graces, juno, and don’t smile. enjoy ♡
hawkins high hadn’t changed much. the same squeaky floors, the same buzzing fluorescent lights, the same faces in the hallways. but to mike wheeler, it felt like an entirely different world. the one where he fit in had disappeared, replaced by one where he was just … invisible.
he hadn’t meant for it to happen. friendships drifted, people changed. lucas found a place on the basketball team, max had her own battles, el and will now resided in california, and mike? mike had the hellfire club.
most days, he liked it that way. the campaign room was a sanctuary, filled with laughter, dice rolls, and the kind of camaraderie he didn’t find anywhere else. but today? today was different.
the door creaked open, and he froze mid-sentence. ❝… roll for initiative.❞ his voice wavered slightly, eyes flickering toward the intruder.
it was her. y/n l/n, the girl everyone noticed. the head cheerleader, with that bright smile and the confidence that seemed to glow wherever she went.
she shouldn’t be here. this wasn’t her world.
her gaze swept over the room, lingering on the chaos of the game board and the scattered dice. ❝sorry, am i interrupting?❞ her voice was light, almost teasing.
dustin answered before mike could. ❝yeah, kinda. but, you know, stay if you want.❞ he grinned, clearly amused by the sheer absurdity of her being there.
mike’s cheeks burned. he ducked his head, pretending to be focused on the game. but he felt her eyes on him.
❝actually, i was looking for you,❞ she said, directing her words toward mike.
his head shot up. ❝me?❞
❝yeah. can we talk?❞ she gestured toward the hallway.
every pair of eyes in the room was on him. dustin gave an exaggerated eyebrow raise, and eddie leaned back in his chair, smirking.
❝uh … sure.❞ mike mumbled, pushing himself to his feet. his heart pounded as he followed her out.
the hallway was quieter, the hum of distant chatter fading as they walked further. she stopped near the trophy case, turning to face him.
❝so,❞ she started, crossing her arms over her chest, ❝what’s the deal with that game?❞
mike blinked. ❝what? d&d?❞
she nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. ❝yeah. it seems … interesting.❞
he didn’t know how to respond. was she messing with him?
❝why do you care?❞ his voice came out sharper than he intended.
her smile faltered for a moment before softening again. ❝i don’t know. i guess … i’ve seen you around. you always look like you’re having fun with your friends. and, well, it looks nice.❞
mike stared at her, trying to process her words. he wasn’t used to people outside of his circle being curious about his world. especially not her.
❝it is fun,❞ he admitted, his voice quieter.
her eyes lit up. ❝see? i knew it.❞ she stepped closer, leaning against the wall beside him. ❝it’s cool that you guys have something like that.❞
he shifted uncomfortably. ❝yeah, i guess. most people just think it’s nerd stuff.❞
❝who cares what most people think?❞ she shrugged. ❝you like it, right? that’s what matters.❞
his heart did a weird flip at her words. he wasn’t sure if it was her tone or the way she was looking at him —like she genuinely meant it — but something about this moment felt different.
❝thanks,❞ he said awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck.
she smiled again, this time brighter. ❝anytime.❞
for a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of the school around them feeling far away.
❝so,❞ she broke the quiet, ❝you gonna teach me how to play?❞
mike blinked. ❝you want to play?❞
❝why not?❞ she laughed, bumping his shoulder lightly. ❝maybe it’s time i tried something new.❞
he hesitated. ❝i don’t know … it’s kind of complicated.❞
she raised an eyebrow. ❝are you saying i can’t handle it?❞
his lips twitched into a small smile. ❝no, just… it might not be your thing.❞
❝let me be the judge of that, wheeler.❞ she grinned, and for a second, he forgot why he was nervous.
the following week, she showed up at hellfire. dustin’s jaw practically hit the floor, and eddie looked like christmas had come early. but mike? he was nervous.
still, y/n fit in better than he expected. she laughed at their jokes, asked questions about the game, and even rolled her first dice with an enthusiastic cheer.
by the end of the session, she was leaning into mike’s side, her hand resting lightly on his arm as she whispered, ❝this is actually fun.❞
his heart raced at the contact, but he managed a nod. ❝told you.❞
❝you’re a good teacher,❞ she teased, her fingers squeezing his arm gently.
he swallowed hard, feeling a warmth spread through him. ❝you’re a good student.❞
she smiled, resting her head against his shoulder for a moment. ❝thanks for letting me crash.❞
❝thanks for wanting to,❞ he replied, his voice soft.
over the next few weeks, y/n kept coming back. not just to hellfire, but into mike’s life. she’d find him in the hallway, throw her arm around him, and drag him to sit with her at lunch.
people stared. they whispered. but she didn’t care, and somehow, neither did he.
❝you’re different,❞ she said one afternoon, walking with him after school.
❝different how?❞ he asked, curious.
❝different good,❞ she clarified. ❝you don’t try to be someone you’re not. i like that.❞
mike felt his cheeks heat up. ❝thanks.❞
she stopped walking, turning to face him. ❝i mean it.❞
he met her gaze, her sincerity hitting him hard. ❝you’re… different too.❞
her smile widened. ❝different good?❞
he nodded. ❝yeah. definitely.❞
she stepped closer, her hand brushing his. ❝you know, i think we make a pretty good team.❞
he glanced down at their hands, his heart pounding. ❝yeah … we do.❞
her fingers intertwined with his, and suddenly, hawkins high didn’t feel so overwhelming anymore.
© MINA LEIGH 2023 - 2024