Mike has always had trouble telling El how much he cares for Eleven, even though his actions throughout the previous seasons indicate how much he cares. Nancy has been affected by this example in the past as well, as Nancy continued her relationship with Steve because it was the easy thing to do - but Mike, though he has been in a loving relationship the whole time, has never seen a couple tell each other how they truly feel.
When Mike and the Byers brothers rescue Eleven in the second volume of the Stranger Things season, he will finally be able to say the words she has been asking for. Joyce took her kids out to California to start a new life, Hopper was stuck in a Russian prison, and the rest of the group remained in Hawkins.
If his parents are still together after all these years, despite never really expressing their affection for one another, it makes sense that Mike doesn't understand how badly his inability to tell Eleven that he loves her is hurting her feelings. One reason some have speculated that Eleven should break up with Mike is that she has to lie to him to keep up appearances. He doesn't realize how important it is for someone with a story like Eleven to hear that declaration. Growing up, Mike experienced love from his parents, his friends, and his siblings.
Nancy says that her parents' relationship was the easy route for them to take when she speaks to Jonathan in the first season of Stranger Things. He is a kid with a lot of emotions that he never learned how to say something like "I love you", and instead expresses his feelings with actions. The distance between them makes it difficult for them to be honest with one another.
It's a big deal for a teenager to say "I love you" for the first time. As soon as El's bullies show up at the roller rink they've just arrived at, Eleven has been lying to Mike about how wonderful her life has been in California.
Eleven grew up in an abusive environment that made her more eager for affection and love and willing to give it in return. It is said that children learn by example, which would explain why Mike isn't able to express his feelings directly, when his own parents have set a bad precedent. Their love for one another is seemingly non-existent, even though Karen and Ted both love their children. During spring break, Mike is going to visit the Byers family in California.
Long-distance relationships can be difficult for two teenagers who have been through a lot and were used to spending a lot of time together.
The arrival of Mike is met with a lot of enthusiasm, but there is an underlying tension between him and Eleven.
Mike couldn't say "I love you" to Eleven in the fourth season of the show. Mike couldn't say "I love you" to Eleven because of their bond. Mike and his siblings have not been set the most loving example by their parents. It was bad enough for Karen to have an affair.
The second volume of the fourth season of Stranger Things is going to be released on July 1.