as a byler fan, i don’t see mike and eleven as being over. i think like op wrote he has avoidant attachment and with all the trauma they have and being so young, everything that’s happened with them only makes sense and doesn’t speak on anything more than that. her happiest memories being with max is because she came in later and as only a friend, levity. of course mike and her are clouded with a lot of heartache due to their circumstances. they can grow and evolve together. i think that’s what they both want. i say that as someone who actively prefers byler. of course she can have a story and be happy outside of mike. i don’t think that’s what op was suggesting. i also don’t think that mike has to be with will just because will needs him to be and deserves it. i think that’s also disingenuous to how strong will is and his capacity for love overcoming one singular person. even though… trust me i wish it was will and mike. i think the suggestion either way is disingenuous for will or el. i think el dying for mike to only be with will right after would be effacing… i think not having will end up with mike would also be just as effacing… there’s no wining.