Just saw this post about how crazy the Byler renaissance was. More specifically the extreme peak of Byler doubt that came right before it when vol 2 first dropped.
You really just had to be there. The buildup of volume 1 for Mike bonding with Will, but not being able to tell El he loves her and them fighting. He doesn’t love her. They’ve been together for most of the show, but he doesn’t love her. Like Nancy didn’t love Steve. And got with Jonathon. We have canonically gay Will, crushing on Mike. Everything feels like we were heading to Mileven breakup and Mike queer realization. It’s all RIGHT. THERE.
And then. Just. Professes his undying love for her. Seemingly vaporizing the giant obstacle in their relationship. He does love her after all. He can say it. The moment his life started. When Will was missing. When Will was missing… wait a minute- I remember season 1. That is so NOT what happened. He was distraught meeting Eleven. He didn’t love her then. He’s lying! Boom. Byler renaissance. That’s how it happened for me at least.

















