lily rose depp's forehead

for all my deepest darkest cringes

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Hi! I LOVE your fic recs, can you recommend any Byler fic AUs?

Hi! Thank you :)

Okay so I'm not a huge Byler AU person just cause I like Byler as they are BUT there are two that I really love and a few honorable mentions. Say a Hail Mary is pretty much just smut but it is in fact an AU and going live / sharknilla is a social media AU which I love and think is an underrated medium. Honorable mention is Privacy which is in-universe but heightens it so that hawkins is more of an apocalpyse zone and it feels more zombie-related than Vecna. Privacy is technically smut but the friendship and glimmers of world building in between are fun fun fun. I'll also link a couple of A/B/O cause idk if you count that as AUs but it's definitely not in the universe we live in.

Say a Hail Mary.: (by bylershiii) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76066276/chapters/199038446

Mike, son of the town’s priest, a devoted catholic, was tempted. This temptress-the angelic devil, too beautiful to resist. He sinned.

Does he really regret it when he confesses?

going live / sharknilla: (by inhunned) https://byler-archive.neocities.org/going-live

when will, a popular youtuber, starts beefing with a famous streamer, mike, their shared fanbase splits.

but when they’re forced to interact on live, their dynamic is something unexpected.

Privacy: (by BottomWillByers)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/44718556/chapters/112512460

Dustin and Lucas were on night watch so it’s just him and Mike in the room. Having fallen asleep early, both tired from the supply run they were on earlier today, Will passed out as soon as his head hit the pillow only to be woken up a couple of hours later to pressure on his ass.

It took a moment to orientate himself. Used to waking up to noise and vibration but not to touch. He was pressed up tight to the wall like usual, which usually gave him inches of space between himself and Mike. But not right now. 

Because Mike had scootched across the bed and was spooning Will from behind. His bare chest pressed alongside Will’s exposed back, one arm slung over his waist as he mumbled into the back of his head.

Will’s about to ask Mike what was going on when he felt it. The consistent thrusting of Mike’s hips against the swell of his bum. His words died in his mouth as he registered that Mike was asleep. Soft moans spilled from his lips and the hard pressure of his dick stuttered against Will.

A/B/O

II Hands II Heaven: (by Venapraeys) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75361431/chapters/197004896

Will had been upset at the state of their relationship lately. The person in question, of course, being his best friend Mike Wheeler. He couldn't remember when things had started to feel wrong between them- only that he did. Mike used to be the one person who made everything feel as it should, and now even that felt off. Instead, every moment beside Mike only reminded him of how far apart they’d drifted, and of how much Will still wanted to bridge that space. Could they really continue like this?

Or

A quick glance into Will and Mike’s dynamic following season 4. Longing, pain and powerful emotions. 

Make Believe: (by Flurryofstarz) https://archiveofourown.org/works/37466017/chapters/93500635

There's absolutely no way to know what a person will present as ahead of time, but Mike’s never been more certain about something in his life. Will Byers is going to be an Omega-a male Omega-and the second it happens, he’ll lose everything. Some knothead Alpha like Troy or James will claim him as their own and no one will be able to stop them. Luckily, the Party has a plan. IT might be complicated and unconventional. It might not even be legal, but it’s something and that’s all Will really needs. Something. And Mike’s more than willing to try it if it means saving Will.

But what if Will isn’t the one who needs saving?

he could be a bee to blossom: (by Anonymous) https://archiveofourown.org/works/46550350/chapters/117220342#workskin

Mike reached down and grabbed something. He was seated on the edge of the bed, curled towards him with his knee resting near Will’s pillow. He had a carton of freshly washed and cut fruit in his hand. “I already went to the grocery store and got, like, a million things. We could probably shelter in place here for a month and a half.”

Mike said it in a way that was not remotely sexy, but it still made something in Will’s stomach heat. He almost felt like purring, kneading his hands into the mattress with satisfaction. [My alpha got that for me. My alpha is making sure I’m healthy and hydrated. My alpha is taking such good care of me.]

A record scratch went off in Will’s head. Christ alive, Mike was NOT his alpha.

(A/B/O AU... And they were roommates!)

Take is slow, take it easy on me: (by evehollow) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77523556/chapters/203019021#workskin

After being on heat suppressants for a few months, Will begins experiencing symptoms of a phantom heat. Mike, an alpha, offers to help relieve the symptoms by scenting him. As a friend. Totally as friends. 

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

drarry fic recs with the best canon divergence that are actually super interesting and unique?

Temptation on the Warfront (one of the best fanfictions of all time, in my opinion) is the only one I can really think of that's not eighth year or post-hogwarts. Maybe Nero Su Bianco, too? Idk if that one counts I haven't read it in a bit. Otherwise if you want eighth year canon divergence I got LOADS

Temptation on the warfront: (by alizarincrimson)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/4373594/chapters/9926705

Draco Malfoy is forced into hiding with the Golden Trio and dragged into their search for horcruxes. What ensues is a journey of redemption, unexpected friendships and an unwanted, turbulent romance with Harry Potter. Warnings for swearing, sexual content, and dark themes.

Nero su bianco: (by zuzallove)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/16390034/chapters/38364101

September 1997. Hogwarts is under the regime of Voldemort and the Carrows. Finding himself alienated by both his friends and his supposed enemies, Draco puts quill to parchment, and writes letters. He addresses them to the only person he can think of, as Hogwarts rapidly falls into chaos and ruin: Harry Potter. He goes to great lengths to ensure the letters are never discovered, and he’s pretty certain he’s done a great job.

Until the day of his trial.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Byler Fic Recs (Part 5)

if you're yearning for a little byler these days *Link to Part 1* |*Link to Part 2* | *Link to Part 3* | *Link to Part 4*

[Even Even More] Favorites:

talk to me dirty; talk to me sweet: (by thesweetestdream) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78583421/chapters/206040541

Will and Mike accidentally overhear a couple talking dirty over the walkie, and start repeating some of the filthy phrases to each other for shits and giggles. What starts as a joke, soon turns into something they can't stop doing – and can’t tell anyone about.

Or:

Mike and Will start talking dirty to each other for fun. What they don't consider is that it would accidentally turn them on.

This is the sexiest Byler fic of all time (aside from Privacy, which is one of the hottest fic i’ve read across all fandoms) and i highly highly recommend

if being afraid is a crime, we hang side by side: (by retired_teenager) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77184266/chapters/202052226

Mike visits Will in New York during his last winter break. It’s the first time they hangout after graduating, just the two of them. Mike is finishing his final book draft and Will is about to graduate, moving back to Hawkins next summer.

A blizzard paralyzes the city - trains, buses and planes all coming to a halt. Mike will be staying longer than just the weekend, bound to the childhood friend he’s been questioning his feelings about lately.

Or

First love never dies.

SO GOOD

lay on hands: (by diplopia) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77300001#main

Moments ago, he’d never kissed anyone, and now he’s straddling the boy he’s in love with, moving his mouth on instinct, forcing his body down so that he doesn’t float away. He keeps thinking, I’m so fucked, I’m in trouble, I’m in such deep shit, a giddy running commentary that means nothing, really, because with whom would he be introible, and why? Mike? God? The world? Himself?

One of Mike’s hands cards through his hair, nails scratching scalp, and Will feels like he’s dissolving, like he’s cotton candy on Mike’s tongue.

Belatedly, Will gestures at the lamp. “Should I-”

“Keep it on,” Mike says in a firm, heady baritone that hits Will like liquor, and pulls Will back in by the roots of his hair.

Or,

After the MAC-Z, Will and Mike share the mattress in the Wheelers’ basement. Mike finally follows his instincts. Will tries not to have a stroke about it.

Amazing friendship depiction, very sweet getting together, hot smut, mike is obsessed with making sure will has the best time ever and we love to see it

I Want You, Just You: (by lupinpoesy) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77694966

“This wasn’t like the easy camaraderie he shares with Dustin or Lucas. It was something more. Something deeper. Something that hurt.”

Will Byers made a catastrophic mistake: he agreed to room with Mike Wheeler.

The boy he’s been in love with since middle school. The boy he watched kiss someone else. The boy he moved across the country to forget.

He survived the Upside Down. He survived watching Mike love El. He survived California.

How hard could sharing a tiny dorm room be?

Turns out: impossible.

Their room at Indiana University is absurdly small - three feet between beds, no space to hide. And Mike won’t stop touching him. His hand on Will’s thigh during study sessions. Walking around in towels. Looking at him with questions Will can’t answer.

Four weeks of tension. One fight. Seven days of silence.

Then the party.

Mike’s hands on his lips. His body pressed close.

“I can’t stop thinking about you.”

Neither can Will.

Some feelings run too deep to ignore - even when the distance is only three feet.

Yearn.ing.com.

Supervoid: (by maximumtrash) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76841816/chapters/201129646

Mike pushes into his hands, but Will keeps still.

“Ask again,” he says. Because he’s greedy, and he wants Mike to want him.

He stares at Will’s mouth. “Please.”

“Again.”

El is gone.

Will tries to figure out how to move on in New York, and Mike follows him. Their apartment is haunted not by ghosts, but by the two of them.

Or: Catastrophically traumatized boys cling to each other and accidentally figure out how to be close  - too close - while moving through their grief. 

completely normal best friend activities (not): (by zombieboyfantasy) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77165766/chapters/202001601#workskin

Mike has no older brother to talk about puberty with, so he turns to Will. They quickly progress from normal friend activities and neither of them question it. Also Will really likes hickeys and Mike likes the way he moans.

Everything I Never Told You: (by cosmids) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78111521

When Will Byers comes home for Christmas break, he tells himself he’s prepared to be normal about Mike Wheeler.

He isn’t.

One night, one confession, and everything they never said finally breaks free.

cottonmouth: (by lightsflicker) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78235046#main

“Just saying, if you’re taking another hit, you should share it with me,” Mike says, and Will slowly tilts his head, drinking in every word. “It just makes sense. Like, mathematically."

Will’s reddened eyes narrow, bewildered. “Mathematically?”

“If there’s two hits left, we’d each only get one,” Mike explains. “But if we shotgunned, we’d both get two.” God, this is the best idea he’s had in ages. He should've stolen Will’s weed, like, months ago. “That’s like, bang for your buck. This is simple math, Will Byers. Keep up.”

In which it’s well past midnight in New York, Will can’t sleep, and Mike feels like they barely know each other anymore.

So, they get a little high. Mike is very normal about it. 

Such such fun dialogue. Love highler.

Plastic Off The Sofa: (by Venapraeys) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75740241/chapters/198099391

Mike had been his pillar of strength ever since elementary school. The fated day Mike came up to him and asked to be friends. That relationship came with a flurry of laughs but just as many tears. Would he always feel torn between two worlds? He wanted distance- but that seemed to be the exact opposite of what he got. Now, he’s living with the Wheeler’s. Nothing could have prepared him for what was next.

hearing damage: (by birthofv3nus) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79707716/chapters/209161211#main

‘Whatever was thrumming between them, whatever was dripping from the low cadence of Mike’s voice — it was the same thing that had bloomed behind Will’s eyelids as he locked eyes with Mike in that lamplight. A tension seemed to rise, one that Will couldn’t make any sense of. He wanted to write it off. Wished that he could. New York City, 1990.’

Normalcy bleeds into domesticity bleeds into longing.

Other Good Fics!

Frostbite: (by valeri_a) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75823251/chapters/198336196

It’s been months since the Byers moved in with the Wheelers. Months of Mike Wheeler trying to ignore strange, unsettling shifts in his own heart whenever Will is near. Buried under layers of denial and unspoken fear, Mike clings to the familiar script of their friendship.

But on a hushed winter night Will begins shattering the careful walls Mike has built and forcing him to confront a truth that could change everything between them.

Don’t Chicken Out: (by cloudyweeps) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76845121/chapters/201136841

A few years in the future, the party gather together in Mike’s basement for a movie night. But after the rest of the party fall asleep, Mike gets bored, and offers up a new idea. A game of chicken.

Will is in for more than he bargained for when he agreed, but he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t very hap-satisfied with how things ended.

Or: Mike and Will play chicken while the rest of the party are asleep and then they make out and fall in love about it.

We Could Do It Right This Time: (by LeighJ) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77289161

Mike and Will grow up and move on. Will paints, Mike writes. They haven’t spoken in five years. It should stay that way.

Mike ensures it doesn’t.

snowed in at Wheeler Street: (by bluespell) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76973031/chapters/201462731 and the prequel in one ear, out the other https://archiveofourown.org/works/76511036

SIAWS: The year is 1996 and Lucas and Max are getting married. Will brings his boyfriend. Mike is not happy. 

IOEOTO: As far as Mike is concerned, it’s an innocuous question.

“So, which one of us do you think Will had a crush on?”

or: Mike Wheeler is as oblivious as it gets. Lucas and Dsutin take matters into their own hands.

No grave can hold my body down: (by lumaxing) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77646536

In which will byers cannot get over the death of mike wheeler.

OR

“mike wasn’t supposed to be spoken of in the past tense. mike was made to be celebrated in the present.”

The saddest most heartbreaking angst of all

falling back into the hedge maze: (by eredmus) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77676891

Five times it doesn't mean anything, and one time it finally does.

Summer Surrender: (by mikeqsp) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77545216#main

Mike’s reaction to the complement is something Will doesn’t catch because he’s too busy lowering himself in between Mike’s knees.

Will assumes Mike was probably once again tilting his head to the side in confusion like an adorable fucking puppy, with his eyebrows furrowed and face flushed pink, probably wondering why Will made such a choice to call him that.

But he’[s gonna find out soon. So why tell him?

Or

Will wants to try topping Mike, but he’s too afraid to ask. So he just ends up going farther and farther without permission.

And Mike ends up not caring about giving him permission and developed a CNC Kink (kinda)

Hot hot sexy hot mike overstimulation

they were all in love with dying: (by Lizzen) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76555306/chapters/200353766

Mike braces himself. “And if I’m your Tammy, or whatever that means-” He breathes in. And he finally says it. “If Vena knows that you have feelings for me, or had feelings for me, or whatever,” Each word is deliberate and Mike feels terrible about each one. This is so fucking hard, pressing on a bruise. “I need to know,” he finished. “If that’s something he could use.”

Will is silent. Ashen. His words didn’t just land, it hit him. Straight and clean.

“Goddamit, Will, I’m scared.” Mike says.

OR: Mike had to ask about this Tammy business because the target on his back is already too big.

Set directly after Will’s coming out scene.

Take is slow, take it easy on me: (by evehollow) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77523556/chapters/203019021#workskin

After being on heat suppressants for a few months, Will begins experiencing symptoms of a phantom heat. Mike, an alpha, offers to help relieve the symptoms by scenting him. As a friend. Totally as friends. 

Every scene a potential: https://archiveofourown.org/works/76972291/chapters/201460476#workskin and Every scene a potential - After Dark: https://archiveofourown.org/works/77566086/chapters/203137991 (by TBGkaru) 

Byler comics!!

saviour pulled from an open mouth: (by bridgetobyler) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78134971/chapters/204781641#workskin

“Will,” The name falls softly from Mike’s lips, pained. “I don’t think I will ever really like anyone who you’re with, if it’s not me. Especially not if it’s... him.”

“I know,” Will mumbles, adjusting the way he’s lying down so he’s even closer to him than he was a couple of seconds earlier. Mike continues to play with Will’s hair, delicately wrapping the strands around his fingers. “I just wanted to hear you say it.”

OR:

Mike and Will reunite at a wedding after years of not speaking, where they learn that time can’t bury emotion. 

The Painting: (by Sooniechan) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78632596

Will accidentally catches Mike using his painting for... masturbating material. And properly goes insane.

The way you look at me: (by Astro_sabi) https://archiveofourown.org/works/77220901/chapters/202154111

Mike and Will decide to live together in their final year of college. During this time Will’s feelings for mike return and this time Mike notices them.

hide what we’re doin’: (by lestappengirlie) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75087961

Loving Will felt easy. Letting people know about it didn’t.

or: 5 times Will and Mike tried to hide their relationship and 1 time they couldn’t

california dreamin’ (you’re the one i’m dreaming of): (by lestappengirlie) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79224566

It was stupid, but he felt like if he didn’t say her name, it didn’t count. Like he hadn’t just let Mike kiss him. The same Mike who was in a relationship with his sister, the girl who was his friend. It was wrong, but so right at the same time. Will wanted Mike to keep kissing him until the end of the world. He felt so fucking greedy.

or: The aftermath of the fight at the Rink-O-Mania

I’m Coming (Out!): (by zonnie) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78209801/chapters/204995566

Graduation weekend was supposed to be fun and uncomplicated. Instead, after a year of kissing Will, Mike has to accept he can’t have his cake and eat it, too.

strange highs and strange lows: (by Anonymous) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79405041

‘"This okay?" Mike presses his fingers down, ever so slightly. Will inhales sharply and nods, but strangely, Mike isn't satisfied. Because of this, he says something so, so stupid—

"Can you use your words for me?"

Another sharp noise escapes Will. Mike stiffens, tugging his hands away as he mentally calculates the flight cost for a one-way trip from New York to the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, until Will leans back into his hands with a soft sigh.

"Yeah," he says, softly. "Yeah, it's— it's good."’

When Mike touches the back of Will’s neck, Will loses himself. Mike, obviously, decides to abuse this.

did you think that i would cry (on the phone?): (by blixciit) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79454191

‘Mike can hear the shift. The way his voice sounds a little thick. The sniff that follows his words. God, he hates himself. He wasn’t trying. He swears. But with his toes already dipped into the water, he can’t help but submerge. He may have improved some of his faults, but selfishness will forever be intricately woven into his soul.

“I don’t know what I’m gonna do without you here, honestly.”’

In which Mike Wheeler feels inclined to act on the fact that he wants to see Will Byers cry.

Fav quote from this: “Then came the push for cuteness aggression. It was Mike’s most futile attempt — he’d point out commercials with baby animals and started seeking reasons to be around kittens more often.”

Friends don’t (but we do): (by midnightcasette) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79611431

"I know you talk about stuff like that with Dustin and Lucas! At least I'm pretty sure you are. Like..." Will slowly looks up, following the length of Mike's leg and body until their eyes meet again. "Do you exclude me on purpose? Be honest!" The way Will’s eyes glisten in the dark makes him look almost defenseless, as if bringing this up is taking everything he has. Mike feels a stab in his gut. Any sort of exclusion would hurt, obviously, and truth be told, Mike had never even considered talking about that sort of stuff with Will—probably for more reasons than he’s ready to admit. "No! Or... yes?"

Or

Will is tired of being babied and wants to talk about dirty stuff like anyone else his age. Mike hesitates, but this might just help him realize why he's been confused about Will lately.

my castle’s crumbling down (you don’t wanna know me now): (by midnightcasette) https://archiveofourown.org/works/79635056/chapters/208960606

Summer. 1989. There's no more school, no more monsters, no more distractions. Mike has to finally face the feelings that he's kept in the deepest, darkest parts of his heart.

And it starts with helping Will rebuild Castle Byers.

going live / sharknilla: (by inhunned) https://byler-archive.neocities.org/going-live

when will, a popular youtuber, starts beefing with a famous streamer, mike, their shared fanbase splits.

but when they’re forced to interact on live, their dynamic is something unexpected.

When I tell you that Skam Frame Elu twitter AUs were the only thing that got me through lockdown i mean that so very seriously, so to have a byler one in my life now is such a blessing

can i be yours? (tell me i’m yours): (by passnger) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78178186/chapters/204905026

Mike and will drunkenly sleep together after Stacy’s party.

— or —

He’d thought he was over Mike. He’d told himself he was. He’d accepted that Mike would never feel the same way. Mike wasn’t like him. Untouchable. Unavailable. A dead end. He’d made peace with that over 18 months ago when the world was ending.

But now Mike was here. And he was touching him. Looking at him like this. Like he wanted him.

And Will was too drunk, too raw, too undone to shove the feelings back down where they belonged.

Brain Fog: (by Loka350) https://archiveofourown.org/works/82416336

“I uh-” He finally looks up, because the lack of air between their crotches is messing with his already barely awake brain. “I've been wanting to be alone with you.” He says it like something might follow after, but nothing makes it past the fog in his head.

Will smiles- such a pretty smile - and slides his hand back to Mike's shoulder. “I've noticed.” It sounds mocking, but then he pushes his hips further in, and Mike's whole system short circuits. “What will you do now that you have me?”

Mike looks down to his mouth, trying to find words somewhere behind the spinning wheels in his head. “Anything you want.”

Or: five times where Mike is desperately horny, and the one time he finaly gets laid.

Licking south: (by ByTears) https://archiveofourown.org/works/81988121

A lazy Sunday with Will practising his deep throat skills lead to a quiet discovery that changed things up in the bedroom.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Byler Fic Recs (Part 4)

this is probs the last round since i'm hoping my hyper fixation dissipates soon. i'm giving myself a month. we'll see.

*Link to Part 1* | *Link to Part 2* | *Link to Part 3* | *Link to Part 5*

[Even More] Favorites:

corollary: (by smoosnoom (moonsooms)) https://archiveofourown.org/works/45801571

“Okay,” Mike echoes. “So, I was - thinking. We should sleep together.”

Will, for some reason, still looks lost, but he looks cute - sweet, like that, pink cheeks and eyes wide and glossy and the slight furrow of his eyebrows like Mike has given him something outlandish.

“I,” he starts, “don’t understand.”

Or: Mike proposes a sleepover. Unsurprisingly, no sleeping is done. 

One of my all time favorites. Like probs in the top ten (out of the hundreds I’ve read). This fic is so so sweet. Will is having trouble sleeping and Mike proposes they have sleepovers like they did when they werre kids. It’s perfect. They sleep in sleeping bags that are too small for them. Mike tells bed time stories. Someone smooches someone. Also their friendship is done so so well? The banter? The teasing? Art. 

neither hawk nor wolf: (by cardangreenbriar) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76624061/chapters/200544896#workskin

“Do you think it’s real?” Mike asks.

Will turns to look at him. “What?”

“The way they show it. Kissing.” Mike is staring at the screen, jaw tight. “Movies make it look-I don’t know. Transcendent.” He half laughs. Unconvincing. “Like it changes you. Like you’d die if you couldn’t have it. You think it’s ever actually like that?

Mike asks Will to help him practice kissing. Will says yes.

The fic is low-key high-key more about Mike overcoming his internalized homophobia and repression via making out with a very patient Will (versus being about them practising kissing). Dynamic characters and relationship, YUMMY smut.

[Even More] Other Good Fics:

given the means: (by wolfecoded) https://archiveofourown.org/works/71886921

Mike would do anything for Will. Would he die for Will?

Or; While exploring the Hawkins church, Will’s mind falls under Henry’s control. Mike does all he can to bring Will back.

Mike having to talk his best friend/crush out of killing him while also stressing that if said friend can’t resist the mind control it’s okay to kill him and he’ll still love him? Yes. Read this. I beg. 

he could be a bee to blossom: (by Anonymous) https://archiveofourown.org/works/46550350/chapters/117220342#workskin

Mike reached down and grabbed something. He was seated on the edge of the bed, curled towards him with his knee resting near Will’s pillow. He had a carton of freshly washed and cut fruit in his hand. “I already went to the grocery store and got, like, a million things. We could probably shelter in place here for a month and a half.”

Mike said it in a way that was not remotely sexy, but it still made something in Will’s stomach heat. He almost felt like purring, kneading his hands into the mattress with satisfaction. [My alpha got that for me. My alpha is making sure I’m healthy and hydrated. My alpha is taking such good care of me.]

A record scratch went off in Will’s head. Christ alive, Mike was NOT his alpha.

(A/B/O AU... And they were roommates!)

Hot sexy hot sexy hot sexy hot. And domestic.

spoonful of sugar: (by smoosnoom (moonsooms)) https://archiveofourown.org/works/42863976

“Just to be sure, you - what were you agreeing to?” Mike blurts. “Like, was it the seeing other people thing, or the kiss - or the practice kissing thing? I was - I’m just making sure-”

“The second one,” Will forces out, feeling awkward to his very bones. “The - practice.”

Mike, somehow, turns even redder. “Right. Yeah. Okay.”

Or: Mike offers to teach Will how to kiss. It goes well, all things considered. 

Just a sweet short cutie patootie fic of mike thinking he’s helping Will practice for his first kiss... except Will has had his first kiss already and mike doesn’t actually care about practice he just wants to kiss Will. 

seven minutes in heaven: (by sarahreadsuh) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76772061

The party plays Seven Minutes in Heaven...

Mike gets picked to go with Will in the closet for seven minutes. 

Seven minutes in heaven smut. Closets are intimate guys and time limits create high stakes what can i say

i’d love to see me from your point of view: (by unidentifiedblackthorn) https://archiveofourown.org/works/40171026

Now that Will’s sitting and Mike’s the one that’s standing, he looks impossibly tall. Tall and lanky, and huge. He should sit back down, Will thinks, lay back down next to Will and stay in their own secluded little bubble.

“I really want to kiss you,” Mike says, and Will’s eyes snap back up to him so violently he thinks he hears his own neck crack with the force of it.

“Don’t,” Will croaks, before his brain has even processed the words. “Don’t say that.”

“Okay,” Mike says easily, still staring. And what the actual fuck is going on? Is Will hallucinating? Is the weed making him hallucinate? “So sausage and pepperoni?”

Will stares dumbly at him. “Um - yeah. Yes.”

“Cool,” Mike replies and then just turns around and leaves Will sitting dumbly in his own room.

or

Mike and Will get high on Jonathon’s weed and Mike has an amazing idea.

The friendship. The flirting. This one is so funny and unhinged. High mike is such a trip (pun intended) i feel for Will in this man i really do.

The Shape of Her: (by Anonymous) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76739171

Will makes a deal with Kali. What does he get out of it? One night with Mike Wheeler. 

Cool idea resulting in melancholy smut - we’ve all been there am i right?

some sort of ripple effect: (by sylvianightshade) https://archiveofourown.org/works/49964629?view_adult=true

In the end, it doesn’t matter. None of it fucking matters. Because what’s really in control is the tension. This elusive string tied between their chests that’s always changing length. Right now it’s so short and taught and strong that Will can’t imagine resisting it. So really, it was never a matter of if he would. Just when. When will he fold? When will he let go and let himself follow Mike into the water?

He dares to glance down at his knees, where he can see Mike’s fingers peeking out from behind his calves (as if he needed that visual reminder that they’re touching), and then back up to meet Mike’s expectant gaze.

He’s going to do it. He’s such a fucking idiot.

OR

Mike & Will have a long overdue conversation on the way back to Hawkins - by, in, and around a random motel pool.

Such an accurate representation of the discussions it takes for friends to shift from platonic to romantic. Their conversation is slow but honest and their silly goofy teasing is authentic and such a treat.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Professional screenwriter here!

The first two seasons of stranger things are well written. They’re fun. Characters are consistent. The story feels connected. Season 3 is a new vibe, but still recognizable as the show even if it feels a bit like a caricature of the 80s instead of a "period piece", and [the first half of] season 4 is a really good show, but definitely a departure from the series and feels more like a really great spin off than a an actual season of Stranger Things. Now, onto the real meat and potatoes: Season 5 (and also the second half of season 4, but that's not why we're gathered here today), while undoubtably having great moments, is objectively worse. The story structure falls off, the heart is gone, the directing becomes horrible which makes the acting horrible, and the dialogue is… I don’t even want to talk about it.

In my opinion, the most disappointing part was that it felt like a remake of a show we used to love. Like, I would get excited when a character acted like themselves or when two characters shared a nice or fun moment that reminded me of how they used to interact and behave - that shouldn’t be the case. We can enjoy character moments, sure, but we shouldn’t get excited when they happen because it’s so rare. That’s what’s wrong with the last season on a character level. 

Given the canon (i.e. ignoring Fanon even though I would’ve loved byler as much as the next guy), here are some really subtle ways the Duffers could have made this season feel whole that don’t change the plot or the [inaccurate versions] of the characters this season (even though I think both need to be completely redone and have many ideas for). 

Mileven. Mileven needed to be played up way more. Having nothing to do with the ship wars, if you’re going to take the route of Mileven end game you have to really play into it. The fact that most viewers thought they may have broken up off camera is absolutely justified given their behavior on screen. Their first meet-up in the field needed to be a kiss (literally just a peck, it doesn’t matter), not a hug. That immediately establishes their position if it’s not going to be focused on the rest of the season. Oh - and Mike should have said “I love you back” at the end because that was INSANE. IT WAS LITERALLY HIS ARC LAST SEASON. I would have even given bonus points if he said it first or if they said it at the same time and she giggled mid-sob but he cried harder. Their kiss also should have been more passionate - not a makeout per say but like movement at the very least. They also could have been touchier in the background of scenes. We know their relationship in the beginning of season 3 is meant to shown how overly lovey-dovey teenage couples can be and how the script literally calls it “disgusting”. Great. They’ve grown up a bit. Now let’s see the middle ground of regular couple behavior instead of that overkill, not just write them not being coupley at all until they are on the bus at the end? BE CONSISTENT. I’m so tired. 

Steven and Robin are besties, right? I’m not going to talk about Robin’s character too much because they completely rewrote her after season three and Steve I think has actually remained constant throughout the seasons so as individual characters, they’re fine. Here’s the thing: after their first cute scene where they’re working the radio station together, we get no indication that they’re closer than other characters outside of Robin talking about it to Will when referring to past situations. Now, I’m not saying the show is telling us they’re not close anymore. I’m saying the show is bad at showing things these days. It’s all tell tell tell - which is a writing #1 no no. While Dustin and Steve’s friendship is the fan favorite and is obviously going to take center stage, Robin and Steve should’ve been seen in the background more. Their arms around each other, debriefing on plans together, him walking over to her after Dustin pisses him off and her consoling him. Give me anything. (I know we got his hand on her shoulder during the coming out scene but that’s exactly what I’m saying like I don’t want crumbs I want constant maintenance in these people’s relationships).

Will. Will’s separation from the gang during the final battle was very reminiscent of the boys all crowded around Eleven in season 4 while she worked in her dream-scape. It’s limiting your characters. Let him closer to the action. Have him physically be there when he steps in and makes sure Vecna doesn’t kill El at the last minute.

Will gay? Will gay. We know this. His reason for mass-coming out makes sense, but we needed to see the scenarios Vecna showed him. We needed visions of those he loves turning against him. And when it comes to the coming out scene, we needed wayyyy less people there. It should’ve been nearest and dearest, end of story. Also, epilogue Will should have kissed his epilogue boyfriend. That scene itself was so weird. I would have had Will coming out of a bar with a group of friends+his partner, say bye to the friends, walk in the opposite direction with his partner, have the partner or Will pull the other into a dark corner or ally, literally just peck, then keep walking off to wherever it is they’re going.

Murray. This man feels like a CARICATURE. His quippy over-loaded sentences were killing me. Don’t write those in. Let him be Santa who delivers supplies and let him go.

Mike. Volume one Mike gave me literal reason to live. I was so excited to be getting back season 1 and season 2 Mike. Then they just ripped him away??? Why??? Because too much stuff is going on??? Oh, right. That’s a running problem. MAIN characters being pushed to the side until the writers find a convenient moment to squeeze them in between the chaotic plot lines. Had they maintained his leadership role through volume 2, it would have made him feel more constant.

Byler. So, to clarify, I am a Byler. But I have always been a Byler with 99.19% certainty it would not happen. I’m not going to break down why it was always unlikely - I’ve seen the evidence, I see the nuance, I get it. BUT, given it did not happen and now that that’s the canon, let’s talk about platonic Byler. Seasons 1 and 2 Mike+Will were inseparable. Season 3's distance made sense given what they were going for with their arcs. Season 4 Mike+Will was torn to shreds and horribly out of character. Season 5 Mike+Will was back in business volume 1, then out of commission for volume 2 and the finale. To platonically build them up, the elbow touch should have been removed in the field scene (it just gave fuel to Robin saying “the touch of an elbow” which would’ve been amazing if Byler was endgame but since it wasn’t it just gave hope to Will who then gets over Mike within the same 24 hours off camera? Bad storytelling, be better). They also should have addressed the painting in their one-on-one scene on the tower, should have clarified that Mike was the crush so Mike new once and for all and Will could get that detail off his chest, and should have hugged at the end instead of just smiled. Mike also should have been the first one up in Will’s coming out scene, not Lucas. Even though I love Lucas and his ally stance, don’t get it twisted. (if you wanna enjoy byler to its fullest here are my byler fic rec lists)

Holly falling into the upside down. They sacrificed good writing for good visuals. They wanted a shot of someone falling between dimensions and they did and it looked sick, but we shouldn’t be ret-conning plot. We could have had it all. Holly falling into the upside down and joining the gang would have sped up the story. Great, we’ve got Holly back. Now we got to save the rest of the kids. Easy. Make it happen. Not have her see Nancy, have Nancy see her, then pull her back. We could have had Holly’s head just pop through the tear and Nancy hear her scream for her even if they don’t see each other.

The tower they use in the upside down to reach the other dimension should have lined up with a rift. That whole conflict was so unnecessary and it would’ve been a cool visual to see them climb up the tower into another dimension instead of just pushing each other through a hole. I know it allowed for Steve’s death fake-out but that could have happened from him falling while climbing or just getting too close to the edge or a demo-bat spooking him or something idk.

It should have been dark during the final battle/other dimension/planet AND the mind flayer should have been WAYYYY bigger. It felt homey inside??? Are you kidding??? Make it unavigatable (I don’t think that’s a word but whatever). Make it hard for them to find the kids once they’re inside. Use the time they’re searching for the kids to fit in more character moments.

When the girl (blanking on her name - I’m tired) comes up to Dustin and invites him to the party at the end and then Mike does his whole “Actually, I have a better idea” I did in fact cringe but I also think the dnd in the basement ending was absolutely the right way to go, so here’s how I would’ve fixed that. Dustin’s speech was well done. It started off smartypantsy like we know dustin to be and then took an Eddie turn, who we know dustin to aspire to be and who he has clearly become. But some of the stuff was weird. The mention of Dnd making the whole grade like whoop and stuff made no sense. I liked the comedic moment with Hopper being confused as to why everyone’s still talking about this game but like, also, don’t act like everyone loves Dnd all of the sudden. Anyways, when the girl comes up to Dustin. She should’ve given him her number or the name of her college and told him to visit her or given him a peck on the cheek, then walked away. Then the boys and Max could go home and play Dnd.

Take out Lucas calling Max sexy and leave in the rest of the scene, I felt the sexual tension was there enough already. Even though the actors are older and at this point the actors and a lot of the characters are over 18, the word “Sexy” coming out of the mouth of one of the characters who much of the audience still sees as a child just feels weird. He could’ve even said “good”, I don’t care. And word-picking is actually a big no no in writing so the fact that I’m even saying to cut a specific word shows how much I think it should be GONE.

Mike’s dad should have also had scars. It would’ve been sick to see both of his parents at graduation just absolutely scratched up. The audience would’ve loved it and it would’ve been a fun visual.

Vicky should have been in the final moment with the older kids (Steve, Nancy, Jonathon, robin), just not the whole part. Have the scene as is, then have her show up with more beers or something and asked what she missed. Anything but not acknowledging her.

Explain why the goo stopped in the jancy breakup scene.

Show what happened when the government arrived at the church where Erica and Mr. Science Man (blanking on his name despite him being one of my favs). Like, where did those two go? Where did they hide? How’d they get out of there?

When El walks up to that town in the alternate ending, there should have been three waterfalls, not two. I'm pretty sure at one point Mike goes back on his three waterfalls thing and says one or two would be more realistic, but he bring back the concept of three waterfalls in his chat with Hopper which means that's what's the most fresh in the audience's brains which means that there shoulda been three in the final El shot instead of two.

Notice how I didn’t make any huge changes, just little minuscule ones that still leave room for the bad writing and storytelling from the rest of the season, but give the audience a little more something to work with? Nice. Cool.

Things the season did right (cause it wasn’t all bad):

Rovickie. Enough said. 

Final scene of volume 1? Yes. 

Final scene of kids playing Dnd? We love. It was giving old school stranger things which is my favorite stranger things. I did cringe when Will asked Mike about the story teller and he gave a cliche answer with interesting acting but I digress. I loved it overall.

Parellels of Mike’s scream and body language and dialogue during his final moments with El, and the same situations from previous seasons. I noticed it and I thought it was a nice and emotionally impactful touch.

LUMAX reunion. I always liked lumax but I wasn’t passionate about it. This season changed mY MIND THEY’RE PERFECT. Lucas' "are you okay"s when she wakes up is Caleb's best dramatic acting of the whole show.

Nancy and Jonathan breakup. Regardless of whether you wanted them to or not, the breakup was unique and touching. People who didn’t understand it was a breakup are entitled to not understanding, I’m not calling them dumb. But I saw it and I loved it and I think it was sweet to show how you can love each other but not be end game.

Loved that Steve teaches Sex ed.

Loved the Steve death fake-out. It was a little nod to how everyone’s been worried Steve will die since like season two and I found it funny. The fade to black felt weird, but the payoff I liked. 

Will and Mike’s friendship circa volume 1.

any friendship silly goofy moments with the core boys

Lumax in the epilogue.

How in character Max was??? It kind of felt like she was the only one who was consistent and I can absolutely get behind that. When she flipped off Vecna? yes.

I thought the Montauk reference was cute at the end. I feel like it was probably super random for people who didn't know what it was referencing but I thought it was a cute lil wink.

Episode 5 was genuinely one of my favorite episodes of the series.

I liked that when Mike and Nancy and Holly hugged it was in age order. Like it was Nancy's head on top then Mike's then Holly's and that was adorable to me.

gaten's acting

Okay this was all just off the top of my head I’m sure I have more to say but here’s what I jotted down in like four minutes. 

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

okay so i dont know if you take requests but do you have any fics that are like kinda long (or super long) and have no smut? ive been trying to find good ones but it can be tricky lol

i'm guessing this is a request for byler content?? i do a lot of fic recs lol

for byler i do in fact have some smut-free long[ish] ones! idk how long you're thinking but i'll include word count and you can peruse :)

what you really want: (by miwiheroes) - 46,457 words

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60588913/chapters/154694806

“I need you.”

Will’s expression grows more stunned. “What?” he breathes, voice barely above a whisper.

His instincts tell him to take it all back, but the way that Will’s looking at him with those sorrowful, questioning eyes weakens him. And he’s been stupid for many, many years, so what's a little more stupidity?

aka a s5 speculatory mike wheeler-centric fic about his internalized homophobia and a lot of moments where he’s not so clever about his feelings with will

This one is really plot heavy but the writing is amazing and the girls are YEARNING.

you took my heart (i was sleeping): (by lameparties) - 52,632 words

https://archiveofourown.org/works/72695121/chapters/189346596

It’s winter in Hawkins, and Mike and Will aren’t speaking anymore. Living in Mike’s house, Will tries to be invisible, spending most of his time in the basement.

Then the power goes out - and if there’s one thing he dreads more than facing Mike, it’s the cold.

or

Seven nights in which Mike and Will have to sleep in the same bed, even though they’re barely friends anymore.

This fic recently was thrown into the limelight after it became one of the top twenty fics on ao3 or something?? Which is obviously so cool for the author and such a cool accomplishment for the author but most importantly: earned!!! This fic is beautiful and heart wrenching and intimate. Lovely lovely lovely

The Night Shift: (by tempereta) - 15,187 words

https://archiveofourown.org/works/70845471/chapters/184192036

Will stirred sleepily to the sound of voices and a heavy weight beside him.

“Whazup?” he mumbled, lifting his head off the pillow and blinking in the darkness.

“Shhh, it’s fine,” replied Mike’s soft voice, breaking through the stillness that had followed Will’s muffled question, “I’ve got this one. You can go back to sleep.”

Or: Mike and Will take turns staying up with Holly, who has begun to have nightmares about the monsters in Hawkins. Things take a curiously domestic turn.

The cutest fluffiest little fic about Holly being afraid at night so she joins Will and Mike each night (this is during the period where the Byers are staying with the Wheelers). Will starts out sleeping on Mike’s floor but eventually Holly wants both of them in bed to protect her and then we get a shared bed trope and a caring for children trope all in one - it’s magical. There’s a part where they take Holly out to play in the snow then have to warm each other up after!! It’s Cinema!! Also Lucas and Dustin are perfect.

(give me a second to) forget I ever really meant it: (by delusionaltogether) - 11,272 words

https://archiveofourown.org/works/53533000

“Any of it.” Will shrugs, embarrassed. “I don’t know how to ask someone out, or how to act on a date, or how to- kiss, or anything like that.”

“Oh.” Mike’s expression clears, and he grins. “Well, like I said, you’re a catch, so I don’t think you’d need to worry about putting people off or something. And all of that stuff is way easier than it sounds, seriously.”

Will makes a face. “That can’t be true.”

“I’m serious!” Mike says, laughing a little. “Here, we can practice.” He shifts on the bed, arranged his legs beneath him and sitting up a little straighter, running a casual hand through his hair. “Pretend I’m a guy you like.”

Or: Practice makes perfect, especially when the person you’re practising with is your best friend.

The characterizations and friendship of will and mike feels so real and biblically accurate in this one. I want, what? A part two.

all of these are taken from my byler fic rec posts btw so if you're looking for other good ones there are some more there! i'm currently working on a part 4 so strap in

*Part 1*

*Part 2*

*Part 3*

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Byler Fic Recs (Part 3)

since everyone is depresso about how stuff was handled in Vol 2 this seems like a good time to recommend more good fics. this one's a little shorter than the others cause I'm just putting out what I have instead of waiting to cultivate a longer list. times are dire. i do what i gotta do.

*Link to Part 1* | *Link to Part 2* | *Link to Part 4* | *Link to Part 5*

[Even More] Favorites:

(give me a second to) forget I ever really meant it: (by delusionaltogether) https://archiveofourown.org/works/53533000

“Any of it.” Will shrugs, embarrassed. “I don’t know how to ask someone out, or how to act on a date, or how to- kiss, or anything like that.”

“Oh.” Mike’s expression clears, and he grins. “Well, like I said, you’re a catch, so I don’t think you’d need to worry about putting people off or something. And all of that stuff is way easier than it sounds, seriously.”

Will makes a face. “That can’t be true.”

“I’m serious!” Mike says, laughing a little. “Here, we can practice.” He shifts on the bed, arranged his legs beneath him and sitting up a little straighter, running a casual hand through his hair. “Pretend I’m a guy you like.”

Or: Practice makes perfect, especially when the person you’re practising with is your best friend.

The characterizations and friendship of will and mike feels so real and biblically accurate in this one. I want, what? A part two.

[Even More] Other Good Fics!

Playing Cupid: (by AJ_Joy) https://archiveofourown.org/works/61597819/chapters/157478170

When a drunken game of Truth or Dare reveals Will Byers has a crush, Mike wrongly assumes it’s on Lucas. Lucas then has the genius idea to continue this ploy and have a fake relationship with Will - in order to finally get Mike to realize WHY he’s acting so stupid and jealous.

Lucas x Will fake relationship to make Mike jealous? Yes please! First five chapters are kinda slow but in Chapter 6 the pace picks up and this turns into such a good read. The writing is full of personality and Lucas and Will feel so Noah and Caleb coded in this one, it’s so fun.

Say a Hail Mary.: (by bylershiii) https://archiveofourown.org/works/76066276/chapters/199038446

Mike, son of the town’s priest, a devoted catholic, was tempted. This temptress-the angelic devil, too beautiful to resist. He sinned.

Does he really regret it when he confesses?

This one is sinfully delicious. (Get it?) Mike is turbo religious. Will is a confident twink.

baby, i’m a put-on-a-show kind of girl: (by kissingpractice) https://archiveofourown.org/works/46911736

The bottle begins to slow, and manages to point at every member of the party before finally coming to a stop at-

“Will!” Dustin crows. “Will kissing a girl!”

“Shut up, Dustin. It’s not like I’m allergic to them.” Will says, with no real heat.

He swirls his wine glass, takes another sip, and then makes eye contact with Max, who is looking right at him with a glint in her eye. Right now, Will knows that they’re thinking exactly the same thing; this is an opportunity for fuckery that they simply cannot pass up.

Max crosses the circle and rather than kneeling down in front of him and leaning in, like all the other rounds that have been played, she throws one leg either side of him and straddles his lap. One of her hands slides up into Will’s hair, their faces hover, inches apart, for a few moments - before he grabs Max by the waist and kisses her full on the mouth.

Or: the party get a little wine drunk, and play spin the bottle like every good teenage cliche. When the bottle finally lands on Will and Max, they can’t resist the urge to fuck with their friends. 

Full party stuff is so fun. Will and Max’s friendship is supreme. Mike is whipped and very much turned on by Will’s lil show. 

what you really want: (by miwiheroes) https://archiveofourown.org/works/60588913/chapters/154694806

“I need you.”

Will’s expression grows more stunned. “What?” he breathes, voice barely above a whisper.

His instincts tell him to take it all back, but the way that Will’s looking at him with those sorrowful, questioning eyes weakens him. And he’s been stupid for many, many years, so what's a little more stupidity?

aka a s5 speculatory mike wheeler-centric fic about his internalised homophobia and a lot of moments where he’s not so clever about his feelings with will

This one is really plot heavy but the writing is amazing and the girls are YEARNING.

Behind Closed Doors: (by 1029oo_a) https://archiveofourown.org/works/69865296

Will gasped against his mouth, setting something loose in Mike.

His fingers slid up into Will’s hair, tangling, tugging gently until Will shuddered against him.

“Oh-Will...fuck.” Mike choked out when Will tilted his lips forward, grinding slightly, testing the friction. Mike couldn’t stop the moan that came out louder than he expected, vibrating off the walls of the closet. 

The sound alone made Will’s fingers dig into Mike’s shoulders, nails leaving tiny crescent marks. 

Yummy smut with the gang right outside the door during a game of seven minutes in heaven.

Dripping Wet in The Middle of The Desert (literally): (by anonymous) https://archiveofourown.org/works/43795230

How the van scene SHOULD have went.

Very much crack-fic but it’s an iconic crackfic. Good smut nonetheless.

[lucystark12]

the duffer brothers are genuinely the neville chamberlain to my winston churchill because they’re trying to make sure nobody fights and i’m like ho??? there’s a dictator in germany????

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Byler Fic Recs (Part 2)

*Link to Part 1* | *Link to Part 3* | *Link to Part 4* | *Link to Part 5*

[More] Favorites:

you took my heart (i was sleeping): (by lameparties) https://archiveofourown.org/works/72695121/chapters/189346596

It’s winter in Hawkins, and Mike and Will aren’t speaking anymore. Living in Mike’s house, Will tries to be invisible, spending most of his time in the basement.

Then the power goes out - and if there’s one thing he dreads more than facing Mike, it’s the cold.

or

Seven nights in which Mike and Will have to sleep in the same bed, even though they’re barely friends anymore.

This fic recently was thrown into the limelight after it became one of the top twenty fics on ao3 or something?? Which is obviously such a cool accomplishment for the author but most importantly: earned!!! This fic is beautiful and heart wrenching and intimate. Lovely lovely lovely

Make Believe: (by Flurryofstarz) https://archiveofourown.org/works/37466017/chapters/93500635

There's absolutely no way to know what a person will present as ahead of time, but Mike’s never been more certain about something in his life. Will Byers is going to be an Omega-a male Omega-and the second it happens, he’ll lose everything. Some knothead Alpha like Troy or James will claim him as their own and no one will be able to stop them. Luckily, the Party has a plan. IT might be complicated and unconventional. It might not even be legal, but it’s something and that’s all Will really needs. Something. And Mike’s more than willing to try it if it means saving Will.

But what if Will isn’t the one who needs saving?

I am, what? Devastated that this fic has been abandoned. It was a slow burn so byler is only really hinted at where the story is cut off but honestly this is just a good read if you want a character study a/b/o book to read with stranger things vibes.

the winner takes it all: (by andiwriteordie)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/39547614

“Honestly, I bet they’ll end up dating at one point or another. I’ve just got a feeling.”

“I’ll take that bet,” Steve says, voice filled with certainty. “Bet you ten bucks Wheeler and Byers are just friends and don’t get together.”

Or:

Robin and Steve make a bet on whether Will and Mike will end up together. Naturally, chaos ensues.

This fic is so so fun and silly. The writing is just such a treat. Robin and Steve’s friendship is so cute. Seeing Byler from an outside perspective is so sweet. And the fact that literally everyone in Hawkins gets in on the bet cause they’re all invested in this will-they-won’t-they is so funny.

Fence Sitter:  https://archiveofourown.org/works/46090822/chapters/116024959 and Switch Hitter: https://archiveofourown.org/works/46568959/chapters/117269164 (by pinkcash) 

“Okay-gun to your head, you’ve got to kiss someone in this room. Who would it be?”

“Dude, what?”

“Seriously! I’m about to shoot, homeboy, this is your last chance!”

Will furrowed his brows. He shrugged.

“Mike,” he said confidently.

There was a beat of silence.

Or: A canon-compliant rendition of how Mike and Will may have come to confront this feelings

Two parts here. Switch Hitter is my favorite. 

[More] Other Good Fics!

The Night Shift: (by tempereta) https://archiveofourown.org/works/70845471/chapters/184192036

Will stirred sleepily to the sound of voices and a heavy weight beside him.

“Whazup?” he mumbled, lifting his head off the pillow and blinking in the darkness.

“Shhh, it’s fine,” replied Mike’s soft voice, breaking through the stillness that had followed Will’s muffled question, “I’ve got this one. You can go back to sleep.”

Or: Mike and Will take turns staying up with Holly, who has begun to have nightmares about the monsters in Hawkins. Things take a curiously domestic turn.

The cutest fluffiest little fic about Holly being afraid at night so she joins Will and Mike each night (this is during the period where the Byers are staying with the Wheelers). Will starts out sleeping on Mike’s floor but eventually Holly wants both of them in bed to protect her and then we get a shared bed trope and a caring for children trope all in one - it’s magical. There’s a part where they take Holly out to play in the snow then have to warm each other up after!! It’s Cinema!! Also Lucas and Dustin are perfect.

a very murray mistletoe: (by andiwriteordie)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/39716439

“Alright,” he says with a nonchalant shrug. Then, he turns and looks Will dead in the eye. “So, should we talk about your love life then?”

Will’s eyes widen, and once again, the warmth spreads across his cheeks. “W-what?” he stammers, fighting the urge to look over at Mike.

The smirk on Murray’s face only grows, and instead of answering Will’s question, he turns to look at Mike. “Or maybe your love life, Wheeler?” he ponders. “Or I’ve got a better idea... we can kill two birds with one stone and talk about both of you at once!”

Or:

The one in which Murray finally has a chat with Will and Mike.

Cute cute cute cute

long story short: (by OctopusQueen) https://archiveofourown.org/works/40801782/chapters/102649176#workskin

Will is going on a date, and his best friend and roommate, Mike, could not be more jealous, even if he can’t bring himself to tell Will how he feels. When the date takes a drastic turn, and Will calls Mike in tears to come pick him up, will Mike finally be able to say what’s in his heart?

I linked y’all straight to chapter 3 because I prefer to read this one as a one shot. Although chapter 1 does have some fun bants with the full party. But mostly recommending this for chapter 3 since it gives VERY heavy season 2+5 Mike.

Like a Virgin: (by mistresscurvy)   https://archiveofourown.org/works/43408761/chapters/109123377

“Did it ever occur to any of you that I might not want to have my only sexual experiences be with someone who isn’t actually interested in me?” Will asked. 

He was met with three identical looks of confusion. “I mean, it would still be sex,” Dustin said finally. 

Wholesome smut? Wholesome smut. 

Something Must Break Now: (by Concerned_terrapin) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75974471

So, without any other evidence to go off of, Mike tried to work backwards with what little information he had.

Will was upset.

Will had first started acting weird since El’s question during Never Have I Ever.

So, of course, Mike’s sleep-addled, partially hungover brain made the only logical connection he could think of.

Will was lashing out and upset because he was embarrassed. Embarrassed that he had never been kissed.

If anyone were to ask why Mike said what he said next, he would blame it on sleep deprivation, or maybe he was still a little bit drunk from before, either way, all he knew was that he didn’t want to see Will cry anymore, didn’t want Will to feel like an outsider any more than he already did.

So he said something incredibly, incandescently stupid.

“Kiss me.”

Or Mike’s idiotic, roundabout way to get Will Byers to kiss him.

This one’s a little slow but the payoff is delicious. 

Roll for Strength: (by midnighteverlark) https://archiveofourown.org/works/19211020/chapters/45673228

Mike has been acting weird lately - making excuses, being evasive, smiling to himself when he thinks no one is looking. And the hickeys are the nail in the coffin. Will knows Mike has a new girlfriend that he hasn’t told anyone about, and he’s determined to dig up clues about this secret lady-love. No because he’s jealous. Will has moved on from Mike - really. He refuses to spend his whole life pining over someone who’s never going to want him. He just wants to find out about this mystery girl, to make sure she's right for Mike and she’s treating him well. 

But when Mike invites his lab partner from biology along to a party, Will is a tad distracted from his mission. Because Emmett is pretty clearly gay.

(Spoiler alert: Mike isn’t dating a girl.)

This one’s fun cause it kinda turns the usual dynamic upside down. In this one, it’s Will having the sexual identity crisis (crazy, I know) and Mike’s the one who was in love with him but eventually had to pull himself together and got a boyfriend - prompting jealous gay-awakening Will. This is another fic where it’s slow to start but then really comes together.

how to (badly) hide an omega: (by yhujyhtdgsvd) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75849636

“Are you okay with the movie I picked out?”

“Huh?” Will asked, before registering the question. “Oh yeah, it’s fine,” he said, only now realizing that the movie had started. It was Back To The Future.

They watched the first act in comfortable silence. Will wasn’t really paying attention to the movie, though. That sweet smell had permeated the air. He felt drunk on it.

And Mike, who had started the movie sitting an appropriate distance away from Will, had gradually crept into his space, until their thighs and shoulders were touching. Don’t read into it. Don’t read into it. Will recited in his head, like a mantra. Still, the places where they touched burned. 

Mike is an omega and goes into heat while he and Will are having a movie night. I wish this had a part two so so so so so so bad.

ten minutes (pretty baby): (by cleradinspups) https://archiveofourown.org/works/42945162/chapters/107894718

“Mike.” Will knows he probably sounds like a kid, his voice high pitched and whiny. He can’t help it. He turns to look at Mike who has his eyes focused on the road.

“Ten minutes, Will.” Mike grumbles, not even bothering to look at Will.

“No, I can’t- I can’t wait that long.” Will says as he starts to open his legs but a strong hand forces them closed. “Miiiike.” He wines.

Delicious smut in chapter 1 and 3. Oh, and Will has a vagina.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Byler Fic Recs

i don't see enough people talking about quality fiction in this fandom so here you go *Link to Part 2* | *Link to Part 3* | *Link to Part 4* | *Link to Part 5*

My Favorites:

to love me is to suffer me: (by cardangreenbriar) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75398096/chapters/197108571

Will byers is awake at 4am, learning the architecture of something he can’t have while living in this house.

This fic is cinema. It’s beautifully written, the characters feel true to themselves, the slow burn is rewarding, and everything is so real that it feels intimate to just read the words on the page like I’m telling you it’s immaculate. Also the eventual smut feels earned and is yummy. As a connoisseur of fanfiction, I feel safe saying this is one of the best one for this ship (of the hundreds I have read, at least) (okay maybe not hundreds) (maybe like 150)

Privacy: (by BottomWillByers)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/44718556/chapters/112512460

Dustin and Lucas were on night watch so it’s just him and Mike in the room. Having fallen asleep early, both tired from the supply run they were on earlier today, Will passed out as soon as his head hit the pillow only to be woken up a couple of hours later to pressure on his ass.

It took a moment to orientate himself. Used to waking up to noise and vibration but not to touch. He was pressed up tight to the wall like usual, which usually gave him inches of space between himself and Mike. But not right now. 

Because Mike had scootched across the bed and was spooning Will from behind. His bare chest pressed alongside Will’s exposed back, one arm slung over his waist as he mumbled into the back of his head.

Will’s about to ask Mike what was going on when he felt it. The consistent thrusting of Mike’s hips against the swell of his bum. His words died in his mouth as he registered that Mike was asleep. Soft moans spilled from his lips and the hard pressure of his dick stuttered against Will.

Hi. This is the hottest fic I have ever read. This is the sexiest smut I have ever bore witness to. And I have read an insane amount of smut. Most of what I read is explicit and I've been reading smut since I was way too young to be doing so and this is the best I have ever read ever please read it oh my god. It is my favorite smut to ever smut (chapter 3 is my personal fav). Also their friendship/dynamic during the not-smut is cute and tease-y and feels very real and authentic. You’re welcome in advance.

So Alright, Cool,  Whatever: (by LoverBo1)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/40740399/chapters/102082194

“Can we talk?” Mike asks.

“I actually don’t think we have anything to talk about,” Will needs to shut this down and he needs to shut it down, now.

He stands up, mindlessly rummaging through one of his boxes. Maybe Mike would catch the way too obvious hint that Will would rather do anything, but talk with him. “Okay,” Mike slowly shuffles his way into Will’s room.

Oh, Jesus, no.

“Let me rephrase that. We’re going to talk, Will.”

And with that, Mike shuts the door and locks it. Will could feel his eyes going wide, his heartbreak quickening. Okay, so Mike hadn’t caught the hint. How the hell does he get out of this?

I LOVE THIS FIC. At first I thought it was going to be super angsty but it’s actually just adorable and delicious and the characters outside of byler are so well done too like the group scenes are a true delight. I am not lying at all when I tell you I, at 4:55am, in the darkness of my room to nobody but myself, out loud, said: “wait I like this so much what the hell”. Do with that what you will.

Roll to Charm Person: (by harriet_Vane)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/42474426/chapters/106675209

Will needs a date to his mom’s wedding. Mike volunteers.

I thought this was going to be an AU which almost stopped me from reading it cause I only really like Hawkins byler but it’s in-universe and it’s a treat.

i think it’s time i put up a fight: (by cardangreenbriar)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/75050256/chapters/196108741

They’d changed in front of each other a hundred times. This was - what was this? Why was his brain doing this? Will got a glass of juice. Will existed in a kitchen without a shirt on. This was not an event. This was not something that required - whatever this was.

Mike spun to the other side of the bed, smacked his pillow, and dropped his head to it with a thud. Dug his fingernails into his palm. 

Do you ever wish-

Wish what?

Or Mike Wheeler both knows exactly what is going on with Will and has no fucking idea

This fic is so good. Like so very good. It’s sweet, the yearning is yearning, Robin’s cameo is short but iconic, and the writing is *chef’s kiss*

Other Good Fics!

II Hands II Heaven: (by Venapraeys) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75361431/chapters/197004896

Will had been upset at the state of their relationship lately. The person in question, of course, being his best friend Mike Wheeler. He couldn't remember when things had started to feel wrong between them- only that he did. Mike used to be the one person who made everything feel as it should, and now even that felt off. Instead, every moment beside Mike only reminded him of how far apart they’d drifted, and of how much Will still wanted to bridge that space. Could they really continue like this?

Or

A quick glance into Will and Mike’s dynamic following season 4. Longing, pain and powerful emotions.  

This fic is SO SWEET and I’m furious that it ends where it does cause I want more. a/b/o fics are so hit or miss but this one is a HIT.

Breaking The Ice: (by AbandonShip) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75461591

The one where Will saves Mike from getting almost Vecna’d and has to treat his hypothermia after falling into a frozen lake. 

I only included the last line of this one's description on ao3 because the scene that the author used as an excerpt for the bio does it NO JUSTICE. We got yearning folks, we got yearning.

Fractured Shadows: (by LunaMothh) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75532216

Some truths must be spoken. Even if it costs everything. 

You like angst one shots? Here a good angst one shot. 

pull my hair (i’ll try not to shout): (by reakeww) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75578156

Will’s been in love with Mike Wheeler since before he can remember, it was bound to slip out at some point.

This is meant to be smut but honestly I just find it so cute. 

this hunger in me: (by reakeww) https://archiveofourown.org/works/75343936

Will is afraid of wanting too much. Mike has no such reservations. 

Short one-shot smut. Will has a vagina.

[sobadbad]

STRANGER THINGS 5.04

[purpleart1st]

Mass suicide at my place in 10 minutes

[azenetra]

Comic Adaptation of "Cinder" Chapter 1!

Hello world! I finally decided to post a comic adaptation of the first chapter. Since the language of my books is not English, I had to do the translation using Google Translate, which is why this translation may contain errors and be approximate (if someone has English versions of the books and you want to help me with a normal translation write to me).At the moment, I am already working on other chapters (I drew this chapter about six months ago, but I am posting it only now.)

P.S. I drew it with love 〒▽〒

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Lunarry/Huna Fic Recs

I have so few straight ships and they all seem doomed to have only a few quality fics so you're welcome for compiling these

i’ve got a war in my heart: (by sable_tyger)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/546991

Harry and Luna meet again, after the war.

Moonlight: (by TheFeistyRogue): https://archiveofourown.org/works/7905088

“Don’t do it!” Harry cried. “No, Luna, don’t do it... DAMNIT LUNA!” Luna grinned like the Cheshire cat, then disappeared.

Luna had jumped into the time stream. Again. And, just like last time, Luna had jumped with a one way temport, and so now he had to go and get her, just like she knew he would.

Why did these things always happen to him?

Higher Than the Sky: (by aeriedescent)  https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12838569/2/Higher-Than-the-Sky

Luna’s easy swaying was different. Normal. In fact, he felt incredibly normal, like any other student dancing with their date. Even if he was Harry “The Chosen One” Potter and she was Luna “Loony” Lovegood; the least normal pairing of them all. 

Like Invisible Strings: (by and_backagain) https://interhouse-fest.livejournal.com/40624.html#cutid1

The next night, unpacking his trunk, he discovers that he’s forgotten his spare set of quills, his last bag of Chocolate Frogs, and his Transfiguration book. Wrapped in a pair of his old socks, though, is a mirror, which Harry has snatched from the window the moment he’d seen Dumbledore arrive.

A Harry&Luna take on Book 6, in which Luna gives Harry a gift , Harry spends quite a lot of time determinedly not thinking about one thing or another, and Hermione despairs of his common sense. 

freedom: (by kalypsobean) https://archiveofourown.org/works/2904266

Harry accidentally runs into Luna.

Not Right For Him: (by JJ Rust) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/3961411/1/Not-Right-For-Him

How will Hermione react when she learns Harry and Luna are together?

Luna’s Year: (by michelle-31a) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/1500318/1/Luna-s-Year

Harry and his friends gradually discover a growing friendship with a certain...

Play By Play: (by JJ Rust)  https://www.fanfiction.net/s/5210147/1/Play-By-Play

In HBP, Luna did commentary for the Gryffindor/Hufflepuff Quidditch match. But what if she had done it as the girlfriend of Harry Potter?

Protection From Nargles: (by Arpad Hruntra)  https://www.fanfiction.net/s/7352166/1/Protection-From-Nargles

Harry and Luna meet in the Room of Requirement. Mistletoe appears. Will Nargles be a problem?

Takes place during Harry’s fifth year, as he and Luna get closer. Basically pure fluff, largely consisting of conversations. 

Burning Down Privet Drive: (by seriousblablah) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12198211/1/Burning-Down-Privet-Drive

For his 21st birthday, Luna has a surprise gift. And it’s nothing Harry could have ever expected or predicted. Then again, nothing about living with beautiful weirdo Luna Lovegood is ever predictable, is it? 

All So Quiet: (by hariboo) https://archiveofourown.org/works/227811

Luna and Harry in a quiet moment a few weeks after the war. 

Fortescue’s, Or, What You Will: (by ms_worplesdon) https://archiveofourown.org/works/2825918

Luna resorts to drastic measures to get a job in the wizarding world.

Goodnight, Harry: (by museinmotion) https://museinmotion.livejournal.com/11760.html

Sometimes it’s the quiet companionship.

College Sweetheart: (by Cheerful_Clatter) https://archiveofourown.org/works/24576712

A chance encounter with a biology tutor leads university student Harry Potter into a relationship with the most interesting person he’s ever met. Yes, of course it’s Luna Lovegood. Time to find out what his parents think of her. 

Bunnies, Bunnies, It must be Bunnies! (by ArielSakura) https://archiveofourown.org/works/14472747/chapters/33470199

Lunarry is Chapter 13! (every chapter is a different ship)

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Drarry Fic Recs (General)

Honorable mentions across all genres!

(^^gif by https://mxlfoydraco.tumblr.com/)

Oblivious: (by lealam)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/13818327

Harry doesn’t believe his Amortentia’s scent is correct, and starts questioning the potion and his feelings. 

Of course Malfoy, of all people, is the one to answer these questions.

Tea and No Sympathy: (by who_la_hoop)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/2734082/chapters/6126311

It's Potter's fault, of course, that Draco finds himself trapped in the same twenty-four-hour period, repeating itself over and over again. It's been nearly a year since the unpleasant business at Hogwarts, and Draco's getting on with his life quite nicely, thank you, until Harry sodding Potter steps in and ruins it all, just like always. At first, though, the time loop seems liberating. For the first time in his life, he can do anything, say anything, be anything, without consequence. But the more Draco repeats the day, the more he realizes the uncomfortable truth: he's falling head over heels for the speccy git. And suddenly, the time loop feels like a trap. For how can he ever get Harry to love him back when time is, quite literally, against him?

Open For Repairs: (by FeelsForBreakfast)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/3133712

After the war, Draco works at a tv repair shop, and Harry breaks things.

feat. sad boys in jumpers and more ABBA than is probably necessary

Things Worth Knowing: (by Femme (femmequixotic), noeon (noe)) https://archiveofourown.org/works/12922518/chapters/29528763

After the Battle, Harry thinks he's left Hogwarts for good, but Minerva insists that all students return for an Eighth Year if they wish to sit for NEWTs in the spring, and Harry needs those NEWTs to go into the Aurors. Draco's just grateful not to be in Azkaban. Or the Manor. He's hoping he can steer clear of Potter this year and grapple with his own problems. Unfortunately for him, Potter appears to be one of those problems. And that's not even addressing the fact that Potter's got serious issues of his own, which Draco realizes as he's forced to share an Eighth Year dormitory room and several classes with the Gryffindor Git. If only they can make it through the year without killing each other, it should be all right, shouldn't it?

The Light More Beautiful: (by firethesound)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/2693312/chapters/6026747

Thirteen years after Draco accepts Potter's help escaping the horror of his sixth year, he returns to England where he makes the unfortunate discovery that Potter is still as obnoxious as ever. And worse, more than a decade overseas hasn't been enough to dim Draco's obsession with him.

Then Comes a Mist and a Weeping Rain: (by faithwood)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/234222

It always rains for Draco Malfoy. Metaphorically. And literally. Ever since he had accidentally Conjured a cloud. A cloud that's ever so cross.

All the Sense in the World: (by loveglowsinthedark)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/10901745

He had absolutely no idea what was about to happen. Maybe Malfoy would kick him in the face. Maybe he’d scream loud enough that the whole school would rush in and see him lying there between Malfoy’s legs with his cock rock hard. Maybe he’d hex Harry’s rock hard cock off. Hell, maybe Harry’d wake in his own bed in a few minutes with a rock hard cock and would never again be able to look at Malfoy without sprouting an instant hard-on.

Or maybe he and Malfoy would have sex.

Domestic: (by frostywonder)  https://archiveofourown.org/works/1213093/chapters/2481025

Harry finds a stray and decides to take him home.

Boom Clap (The Sound of my Heart): (by loveglowsinthedark) https://archiveofourown.org/works/8801308

Post-war Hogwarts has been energized by its new teaching fellows program. Where once bitter enmity divided the wizarding community, Malfoy and Potter chummily patrol hallways together whilst Granger and Zabini seek lost parts of the castle at McGonagall’s behest and Chang supervises Quidditch when not lecturing in Charms. It’s a veritable wizarding utopia and life is predictable for the first time in years. Which is, of course, when everything blows apart as the result of a drunken dare and Malfoy’s life is ruined beyond his capacity to repair it. Ever. In a million years.

Life is a Twice Written Scroll: (lauren3210) https://archiveofourown.org/works/1746092 and The Secret of the Whole: https://archiveofourown.org/works/1943646

liatws - The new world order hasn't been kind to Draco and his family, and he wishes it could all be different. So does Harry, although not for the same reasons. But as Draco works to fix the mistakes he made in the past, he finds his reasons for doing so changing in a way he never expected.

tsotw - Snapshots in time as Harry and Draco grow up in a world without Voldemort, moving from enemies to lovers. A companion piece to Life is a Twice Written Scroll, for those that liked the last timeline in that story and wanted to see more of it.

The Moon Looks Lovely Tonight: (Omi_Ohmy) https://archiveofourown.org/works/2711060

When Harry moves into the damp and empty Black house, it doesn’t quite feel like home. And then the first owl moves in. After that, it’s a steep slope leading to bed-sharing, more owls, assorted housemates, strange potions experiments, and terrible cooking. And a bit of waltzing, too.

Earthbound Spook: (cest_what) https://archiveofourown.org/works/78824/chapters/104978

Two months after Draco Malfoy was reported dead, Harry and Ron found him tangled in Strangler Ivy on the grounds of Hogwarts.

Sex Magic: (by RomanceeeeDrarry) https://www.wattpad.com/story/32640436-sex-magic-drarry

(^^the og account never finished this but I’ve seen a couple of other authors try to pick up this story right where it left off and while they’re okay, I still wouldn’t recommend them. Just read this one but accept that it’s always going to be unfinished. Still, what’s there is quality content.)

In Harry's seventh year, an unexpected subject pops up on his schedule.

Welcome to the Broom Closet: (by incapricious) https://archiveofourown.org/works/42213

Harry thinks he knows how his life will go: Become an Auror. Marry Ginny. Have a family. But then he sees an advertisement in the paper that no one else can see, and his life is turned upside-down. The Broom Closet: you can be anyone you want while you're there, but you won't remember it in the morning.

Shoulder to Shoulder, Hand to Hand: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22699399/chapters/54251779

"The son of a Death Eater will be staying with you for the duration of the summer." That's how it starts.

Harry returns home, only to find none other than Draco Malfoy waiting in the living room, looking at the bookshelf, but perhaps that should be the least of his worries - a Death Eater within Hogwarts is planning the death of Albus Dumbledore, the secret about Voldemort's survival is revealed, Harry finds himself surrounded by old and new friends, and then there is Malfoy, who is nothing like Harry expected, making him question everything he thought he knew about the blond.

Not in a million years could Harry have predicted how it would end.

Too Many Potters (by Cheryl Dyson) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/4363038/1/Too-Many-Potters

The Weasley Twins throw a party to celebrate the creation of a new potion. 

Days Like This (by space_wingding) https://archiveofourown.org/works/33193228/chapters/82411513

Draco Malfoy is disgruntled at being overlooked for all the high-profile Auror assignments. He's on the brink of quitting his job when he's finally given a prestigious case: to keep Harry Potter safe.

Grounds for Divorce (by Tepre) https://archiveofourown.org/works/18960145/chapters/45017440

Malfoy finds a coin. Harry finds a letter.

A story about histories, a story about families. A story about a lemon tree somewhere in Upper Egypt.

You and Me (bixgirl1) https://archiveofourown.org/works/11277078

When Harry sits down with Malfoy, he's really only looking for a reprieve from the constant stares and whispers. (Mostly.) What he gets instead are a series of strange events that lead to a friendship that is something else, questions that nobody knows how to answer, and the realization that the person that Harry doesn't know how to hate, anymore, seems to be the person who knows exactly what he needs.

A story in which everything is complicated. And yet, somehow, none of it is.

Death Dream (Writecraft) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6664459?view_adult=true

Draco likes to keep things casual, or at least he did before Harry Potter barged back into his life.

Every Me and Every You  (bixgirl1) https://archiveofourown.org/works/14705559/chapters/33983157

Harry liked his life just fine, thankyouverymuch - so it was bad enough when a sly fairy cursed him to leap into alternate realities. But seeing Malfoy in all of them? Definitely way too much. And worse yet: needing the bastard’s help to figure out how to get out of it.

It was a disaster waiting to happen, really.

Well... probably.

Moldova’s Magical Tea (aibidil) https://archiveofourown.org/works/11221299

Neville Longbottom, Luna Lovegood, and - to everyone’s surprise - Draco Malfoy are opening a magical tea shop to revive wizarding tea culture and, hopefully, to bring the community together after the war. Harry, who is unemployed and trying to find his way in post-war society, wants to help his friends with their new business - but that means spending a  lot of time around Malfoy. Featuring Muggle music from summer 2001, trips to the muggle cinema, herbology and magical herbal infusions, and Draco trying to convince Harry that, while he’s still a snarky git, he’s no longer a biot.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Malec Fic Recs

Another fandom I'm not in anymore, but that I refuse to gatekeep the fanfiction for

thanks to the full moon in scorpio (by firstaudrina) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7423861

No one was paying any attention at all to Alec, so Alec kept paying attention to Magnus. 

Alec Lightwood Deserves Nice Things (by nameless_bliss) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6623803/chapters/15157123

In which Alec Lightwood confronts a lifetime of issues about his appearance, and slowly, with a lot of help, learns that he’s allowed to be pretty.

Satin (by nameless_bliss) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6407338

“He should take them off. He needs to take them off. He has no right to be wearing these. He’s not allowed to wear these. He’s not allowed to wear something ike this. He’s not allowed ot have something this pretty.”

Magnus won’t be home for a few hours. Alec wasn’t planning to go snooping through his closet. And he certainly wasn’t planning to try anything on.

Part 2 of “Alec Lightwood Deserves Nice Things”

Learning (by nameless_bliss) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6469282

“He loves it. Seeing something beautiful, saying ‘I want this,’ and then... getting to have it.”

Alec acquires some new clothing. But he wasn’t really anticipating how much it would matter. How much it would change. 

Sequel to “Beautiful” and “Satin”

Mile High (by BlueberryMonarch) https://archiveofourown.org/works/9796040

Alec, Jace & Izzy just boarded a plane for a 13 hour flight to find out that they are not seated next to each other.

The Man (Magnus) seated next to Alec is gorgeous but also a massive a**hole.

In short: Alec joins the mile-high-club.

Shut up and touch me already (by katychan666) https://archiveofourown.org/works/9082870

Magnus thinks he known everything about his boyfriend, but then some of Alec’s hidden secrets are being spilled in the bathroom that day

Just Bite Me Already (by AtowncalledMalec) https://archiveofourown.org/works/18772432/chapters/44535334

Alec Lightwood has only one option left to him when he finds out that Magnus Bane - stuck in Edom - alone - will have to face Lilith and her army. Become a Vampire and go save his man. All he has to do is convince his friends and family that it is a good idea because it’s the only one available to him. Should be easy, right?

You’re Taking My Heart By Storm (by MagnificentlyMagie) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6530758

They’d been doing this... thing for weeks now. Actually it was more than that, it was months. Four to be exact. Not that Alec was counting. Except he totally was.

5 times Alec and Magnus gets interrupted and 1 time they don’t.

A little bit of limp never hurt nobody (by blessedarethewarriors) https://archiveofourown.org/works/10897293/chapters/24223419

Alec complains to Magnus that people noticed Alec having a limp after spending the night with him.

Magnus makes sure his boyfriend won’t be able to walk straight afterwards.

A little bit of embarrassment for Alec, a little bit of fluff, a little bit of feels and a whole lot of smut and love.

You’re Mine! (by Nadja_Lee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/27586564/chapters/67483909

A love story of betrayal, pain, forgiveness, growth, self-discovery and a romance that survives and endures everything and anything. 

Maryse never talked with Magnus after Alec left him and he got his magic back as per the deal with Asmodeus.

Magnus instead joined his father on a campaign against Heaven and Idris, keeping Lorenzo as his pet lizard. However, he can’t forget Alec so Asmodeus decides to take Alec prisoner so he can give his son the one thing he truly wants; Alexander.

Fire In His Veins (by craystiel) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6512818

Alec follows through on the first date promises and things escalate from there. 

Tease (byorphan_account) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6556693

The Institute is holding a gathering and Magnus needs attention.

Forgive Me? (by GoldenDaydreams) https://archiveofourown.org/works/12459000

Alec forgets about Halloween, and gets stuck working. Magnus is totally disappointed. Jace is a good parabatai and gets his bro an out. Alec surprises Magnus. Smut ensues.

Three’s A Crowd (by GoldenDaydreams) https://archiveofourown.org/works/10072013/chapters/22443071

“Two can play at this game.” Alec had the pleasure of watching Magnus go from confused, to a slow smirk, and understanding coming ot his eyes. “I might not be able to kick him out, but I can make him want to leave.”

AKA The story where Jace keeps interrupting Alec and Magnus’ alone time, and they’re both super fed up.

making new cliches (by sarcasticfluentry) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7383769/chapters/16772350

Alec doesn’t like to think about getting older. This anxiety gets even worse on his birthday, so Magnus whisks him away to Paris to cheer him up.

pro bono (by sarcasticfluentry) https://archiveofourown.org/works/8391082

After the Clave drops the charges against Isabelle and declares her free, Magnus decides he doesn’t want Alec’s bow and quiver after all. He gets something even better. 

Part 1 of “The Boundless Saga”

night highs (by sarcasticfluentry) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6671149

The Book of the White turns out to be encrypted, so they’re unable to immediately wake Jocelyn up. Magnus returns home to his loft feeling defeated and wonders where he stands with Alec. 

Part 2 of “The Boundless Saga”

Magnus and Alec Make A Porno (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/21033731

When Magnus and Alec realize how broke they are, they need to come up with some cash fast. The only problem is, they risk revealing that each other has a secret crush on the other for years. Is the payoff worth the risk?

Sin (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/19071820

Alec’s faith slipped away years ago, leaving him to go through the motions of trying to change small-minded people’s views of the world. The appearance of a beautiful demon one day, the man a walking sin, strutting into his church was the ultimate test of faith for the Priest. One that was about to test him yet again. Only this time, he can’t fight his desires and needs. 

I know you want it in the worst way (by mintqueenjo) https://archiveofourown.org/works/20662316/chapters/49068797

It’s Alec’s birthday and Magnus and him ring the day in the best way they know how. 

Not Polite For Company (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/15653028

Magnus, sitting in Alec’s lap during family movie night, has been riling his husband up for hours. After 4 hours of edging, it gets too much for Alec.

Maybe Magnus needs punishing? Maybe being bent over the kitchen island is exactly what Magnus needs to see just how naughty he has been?

Tongue-Tied (by ElizaSam) https://archiveofourown.org/works/22751857

When Magnus throws out the idea of a butt plug, Alec is cautiously curious. That is, until he’s let in the middle of family dinner with it still in. 

A Very Important Speech (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/15777951

An eye for an eye, Karma is a bitch, turnabout is fair play, what comes around goes around, revenge is a dish best served cold. Take your pick, both of them have muttered any and all of those sentiments over the last two years.

Magnus has been waiting to get revenge on Alec for six months. Six fucking months! It just so happens that a visit from Alec’s bosses presents him with the perfect opportunity.

Magnus just brought the war to Alec’s door. 

Breed Me (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/15737922

Maybe it’s because he can’t have kids of his own or maybe it’s because Alec is a kinky bastard who’s always up for trying new things? Either way, Magnus feels like all his Christmases have come at once when Alec lets him “breed” him.

The Hunter’s Moon (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/15686565

Strip pool, winner gets to bend the loser over the pool table!

oF coUrSE that won’t descend into innuendo, groping, dirty talk and shameless cheating. Lies! 

Just Relax, Love (by AtowncalledMalee) https://archiveofourown.org/works/15676632

When Alec gives a stressed Magnus a light massage at the end of date night, he never imagined it would end up with them both naked, on the living room floor, making sweet love.

The Duality of Man (by weeb_grass) https://archiveofourown.org/works/34766830

Magnus has a potion go wrong. Suddenly, there’s two of him.

Alec takes advantage of this little... mishap.

The Rain is Gone (by weeb_grass) https://archiveofourown.org/works/29670111/chapters/72952716

What is Magnus had been kidnapped by Valentine before Lydia and Alec’s wedding? What would Alec have done?

“I’m not married. I’m not going to be married. I did not come for you because I felt guilty for losing you, though that did play into my feelings a significant amount. I came for you because I don’t want to live in a world where you don't exist, Magnus Bane.”

he will make the face of heaven so fine (by weeb_grass) https://archiveofourown.org/works/30628703/chapters/75563636

The Clave and the Downworld celebrate the end to the Mortal War with a formal ball... well, as formal as a ball can be with the downworlders involved.

hit me like a ray of sun, burning through my darkest night (by liamandzayn) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6969160

“Magnus, please” Alec mewls, his throat thick and feeling like he just swallowed a mouthful of gravel- he already sounds wrecked. “Need you.”

(lazy, early morning sex where alec is a very needy bottom.)

In Plain Sight (by RedOrchid) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7511470

One night when they’re out dancing at Pendemonium, Alec decides he wants to try something new. 

The way I feel for you (by theonetruenorth) https://archiveofourown.org/works/11870364

The drawer was filled with sex toys.

Neatly laid out on a cushy bed of silk lining the drawer. There were a lot of them. Alec immediately felt a little lost as he surveyed the variety of colors and shapes and sizes. There were some that were anatomically-correct but some toys looked weird as jeck, and Alec wasn’t really sure how one could use them. There were small ones and big ones and holy shit, how did you even fit some of them into your body?!

A pair of arms wrapped around his middle from behind, starting him so much he actually yelped and flailed a little, luckily managing to avoid hitting Magnus in the face with his elbow.

“See anything you like?”

Falling is Easy (by ThePineScentedAir) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7257091

Alec pauses for a second because he doesn’t know what they are. He doesn’t know if he’s allowed to reach out and kiss Magnus (for crying out loud, they haven’t even been on a date yet). But the night has been hectic and Magnus stayed for the whole thing and they did spend the night together a few days ago, which consisted of sleeping but also a lot of bare-chested touching and kissing. So Alec goes out on a limb and screw his courage. He reaches out and cups Magnus’ head between his psalm, tilting the Warlock’s chin up so their lips seal together when Alec leans down to kiss him.

Or, the boys have their first date. 

wrong in the dark (by sarcasticfluentry) https://archiveofourown.org/works/6464632

After Magnus crashes Alec’s wedding and Lydia is attacked, the Institute goes on lockdown. Magnus stays the night in Alec’s room. 

Convince Me (by oncethrown) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7388827

When Magnus teases Alec about having sex in the Institute, Alec says no. When Magnus admits that it’s a two-hundred-year-old fantasy, Alec says no.

But when Alec thinks about it a little more, he starts to see the apparel. And, technically, it’s not forbidden. And it would be fun to give his boyfriend his well-aged fantasy.

Alec just needs a little convincing.

No Sweeter Innocence (by ithilien22) https://archiveofourown.org/works/7180001/chapters/16297313

Magnus is Alec’s first kiss, first relationship, first everything. So when they start having sex, he’s a little overwhelmed at first.

Or, five times Alec accidentally finished early, and the only time he finally outlasted Magnus.

[lilyrosedeppsforehead]

Drarry One Shot recs

(^^art by @upthehillart)

~

Live A Sieve: (by Cheryl Dickson) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/5320592/1/Like-A-Sieve

Harry and Draco go on a date.

Sportsmanlike Behavior: (by Cheryl Dickson) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/6092253/1/Sportsmanlike-Behaviour

Harry and Draco are on the same professional Quidditch team. Go Catapults! But Draco's behavior is becoming increasingly puzzling to Harry.

I’ll Show You Mine: (by nursedrarry) https://nursedarry.livejournal.com/104507.html

Who’s scars are bigger and better?

Talking to the Moon: (by invisible_slytherin) https://archiveofourown.org/works/11704107

Talking to the moon

Trying to get to you

In hopes you’re on the other side talking to me too

Or am I a fool, who sits alone, talking to the moon?

Stress Relief (by ConstantComment) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/5658234/1/Stress-Relief?__cf_chl_jschl_tk__=627fd3ef52719c2bd31f90138d895ace07ad892a-1610401977-0-Af_Cyuh0eVIsAN7ia8-_GzZNBd32TTQDnxO09yMFXiwxw5bLg_LcLZRauA-RgLWelK1AHy9lFtjMe_zAh1S9c0ViS0Li7UcTNd_2dWoqD6NOVDhyEyEXGpSGAZI08_WC9LDwq3yR4Hkj4DuOWv8REBIvg66AglvdyvoSiFwB8tZLVOrROZ1-0TCMjlJhJufEg-RbO_FaQ3ZFLv_v6tZLYqKeyPBznzyDdUT9PbXIzfQu1boyxQ0hpHC2KsZKEvXF8GPb6LHM0Hx9cme1L3ylN5R7foZiQMYbHa4GkAWS9jctxb8GhRIjTa05PQbW6S5y5DXEmh_HbvoE6BX_7b686Pu-XCJjGiFy7by6DHLXs2EAooHFQ-NEEjmMPM22mCdJ3HStY6fSFLTxGplYPeXBLII

It's a sunny Sunday and Harry's stuck in the library writing a Transfiguration essay due in 24 hours. He just can't seem to concentrate! What has Harry gotten himself into?

Seducing Draco Malfoy: (by faithwood) https://www.fanfiction.net/s/4394739/1/Seducing-Draco-Malfoy

The first time Harry Potter appeared on his doorstep, Draco was only slightly miffed. The second time, Draco was quite miffed and quite surprised. The third time, Draco was downright shocked.

Harry Potter Day (by Saras_girl) https://archiveofourown.org/works/926497

Draco had better not be mentioning the thing that they do not mention. He wouldn’t dare.

Not a Saint; Not a Sinner (by defractum) https://archiveofourown.org/works/5523212

“They’re family.”

“So?” Says Draco impatiently. “They locked you in a cupboard for ten years.”

“I’m pretty sure you tried to do that at some point too,” points out Harry, clapping his hand over Draco’s which is still around his arm, which means that he’s just dragging Draco towards the Dursleys with him.