The Scoops Ahoy secret remain secrets.. · Y/n story by @hellohello

The mall's air conditioning hums overhead, a mechanical drone that does nothing to cut through the heat radiating from the food court. The smell of greasy pretzels and cinnamon sugar hangs heavy, mixing with the faint, musty scent of the indoor fountain.

Mike Wheeler

pacing, running a hand through his hair Okay. Okay. So the Russians are gone. That's… good. That's really good.

Maxine "Max" Mayfield

leaning against the sink, arms crossed You've said that four times, Mike. You're not convincing anyone.

Mike Wheeler

stops, turns to face her I'm fine.

Maxine "Max" Mayfield

Bullshit. You've been acting weird since we got out of that freezer. Weirder than usual, I mean.

Mike opens his mouth, closes it. His hands are shaking, just slightly, and he shoves them into his pockets.

Mike Wheeler

I just… I need to tell you something. And you can't freak out.

Maxine "Max" Mayfield

raises an eyebrow Me? Freak out? I just helped you fight interdimensional Russians. I think I can handle it.

Mike Wheeler

It's not about the Russians.

The silence stretches. A pipe groans somewhere in the wall.

Maxine "Max" Mayfield

Then what is it?