#*steve death noise*
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Hey, has anybody else got this death message today
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Death Waits For No One⌠Except Eddie Munson
Warning: Temporary Character Death
Could be read as Part 2 of This Post
Enjoy!
~*~*~*~
Eddie dies. He knew it was coming, felt it as soon as heâd stepped foot into the sordid little town as a puny and pale eleven year old. There was a grim acceptance that he wouldnât survive long enough to leave. He spent his years being as authentic and genuine as possible; loud, eccentric, world-devastatingly handsome with awesome hair, and completely and utterly metal.
He spent his adolescence in Hawkins being true to himself, being someone that he could be proud of. However, there was always an undercurrent of danger. Being different in a small town where everyone else is the same is a hazard and Eddie wondered things everyday.
Would this be the day it ends?
Would Hargrove, Hagan, or any other small minded jock choose today to bash his head in?
Would the cops make an example of the weird âdevil-worshippingâ, rock nâ roll, high school fiend today?
Sometimes death was the cost of being different and he had accepted that.
Eddie, and unfortunately Wayne, had seen it coming for years and were not so eagerly awaiting his demise. Whether it be a beating from a bully gone too far, an overdose like his Ma, or a fiery crash, they lived each day in tentative hope that heâd escape deathâs clutches once again. Neither one of them expected him to die in a haunted parallel universe in pain, cold and alone, with blood in his mouth and holes bitten through his flesh.
Eddie watched Dustin grieve him through teary eyes as the cold set in, warm blood leaking from his wounds and a numbness settling in his bones. He distantly heard Steve screaming for the both of them and maybe even the uncoordinated footfalls from Robin as she ran towards them. He tried to hang on, gripping the last dredges of life with both hands. Eventually though, his eyes closed with the weight of the world and his heart sluggishly slowed its beat.
The last thing he saw before his eyes were forced closed was Steve shoving a crying Dustin aside with determined eyes and a frown on his face. He felt a vague pressure center in his chest before everything faded to black.
Death wasnât the peace or nothingness that he expected. It wasnât bright lights or past memories flashing in front of your eyes. He was conscious, worriedly wondering if his friends had made it home from the Upside Down and how Wayne would take the news, if the Party could even tell him anything.
His death was a nightmare to him, everything he hated; darkness, silence, and too much time to ruminate on his thoughts. There was nothing to see and his feet were getting cold in an inch or so of standing water. Wonderful. The only noise he could hear was the blood from his deepest wounds dripping to the water at his feet.
He didnât know how long he was there. Standing there, admittedly freaking out more than a little bit, and doing nothing couldâve taken three minutes or thirty years.
But when he opened his eyes again after a slow blink, he was back in the Upside Down next to his trailer. His wounds still throbbed with each heartbeat and he could feel the stickiness of blood clinging to his war outfit. Upon further surveillance, he noticed his favorite necklace with his motherâs old guitar pick was missing. Those fucking bats probably ate it. He considered rifling through the rotting carcasses surrounding him before letting out a sigh. He didnât have the energy to perform necropsies.
The next thing that made itself known was the heat. Eddie remembered the Upside Down being cold, a strange mixture of humid and frigid. But now, the air was practically sizzling with heat and it made the stickiness of blood even more unbearable.
It wouldnât stop Eddie though. He was apparently still alive after facing death once more. If anything could be said about Eddie, it was that he was a survivor. So, he pulled himself up despite his agony and set out on the trek of a lifetime. He climbed through the gate in his trailer, ignoring the cooking of his flesh and the pain accompanying the burns. He flopped onto the unforgiving carpet of his trailer that he really shouldâve cleaned when Wayne told him to. Then he went to Steveâs because if anyone could help him, it was him.
He didnât expect the town to be in chaos or the rippling chasms of fire that lengthened his walk.
He hid in trees when cars passed him but no one paid him any mind. Everyone was too apt to get out of town than they were to pay the walking zombie (so he supposed) any mind.
Eddie walked until he was standing over a sleeping Steve in his room in the Harrington house. He wasnât sleeping peacefully and Eddie could imagine why.
âHey, Harrington. Wake up, itâs okay. Youâre dreaming.â
Steve jerked awake and started screaming his fool head off. Eddie stumbled back in surprise and hissed as the movement pulled at the worst of his wounds.
âShh! Harrington, Jesus H. Christ, calm down. Holy shit, I thought youâd be the calm one. Calm down, please god,â Eddie breathed through the pain and calmed him. He probably looked like shit so he understood Steveâs fright. A small part of him, his inflated ego probably, took offense though he wouldnât voice it.
âEddie?â Steveâs voice was tinged with disbelief as if he couldnât believe what his eyes were seeing.
He beamed, âI see weâre on a first name basis now, Stevie. If I knew this was all I had to do, I wouldâve died a long time ago!â
Steve threw himself forward into Eddieâs arms with a soft gasp of pain and Eddie let out an oomph of surprise and pain in response.
âYouâre not going to be here in the morning, are you?â Steve whispered into the crook of his neck.
Eddieâs shaky hand latched onto Steveâs shoulder to deepen the hug. âHell Steve, Iâll never leave you again if youâll have me.â
Steve fell asleep on top of him in what appeared to be his first restful slumber in weeks. Eddie wasnât going to ruin that. Instead of treating his wounds or showering Upside Down grime and dried blood off, he ran a hand through Steveâs hair and closed his eyes. It would all be there in the morning, after all. What could a little shut-eye hurt?
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#Steve wakes up in the morning to blood on his hands and Eddie in his bed#he wakes Eddie up by screaming in his face#hopper gets called to his house for a noise complaint and walks in on both of them shirtless in the bathroom#he tries to arrest Eddie right then and there#he has other priorities like the town being on fire but he thinks this kid just defiled his son#Steve gives him the bitchiest look he can muster and tells him he can handle himself (concussion and all)#stranger things#steddie#steve harrington#eddie munson#fanfic#temporary character death
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I want Doctor Death-Defying as my dad so bad it's not fucking funny anymore
#Love me a disabled radio-running dilf#doctor death-defying#show pony#steve righ#ddttlotfk#danger days the true lives of the fabulous killjoys#the true lives of the fabulous killjoys#ttlotfk#battery city#the zones#my chemical romance#mcr#mcrmy#killjoys#killjoys make some noise#danger days#party poison#fun ghoul#jet star#kobra kid#bl/ind#killjoys comics#comfort character
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Steve knows he falls in love too easily. Nancy told him, Robin too.
But falling in love with Eddie Munson is hard.
They're supposed to be friends after Vecna. They're supposed to be friends, but Steve can't get past what Eddie did in the Upside Down; how he put himself in a position to nearly die, how Dustin got hurt. It's not fair. He knows it's not, but it doesn't make the anger go away.
Eddie's part of the group now, though, and Steve won't leave him out, no matter how angry. They're all at movie nights, at pool parties, at Hellfire, at Corroded Coffin gigs. It's just that Steve and Eddie don't speak. And Steve is okay with it. If it's what it takes to make sure that they're all hanging out together, not talking to Eddie is a small thing. He's pretty sure Eddie doesn't mind. At least, he seems as uninterested in hanging out with Steve as Steve is with him.
It doesn't need to be anything more than that, and it isn't, not until Steve goes upstairs to get more sunscreen during one of the pool parties, and walks back downstairs to find Munson waiting for him in his kitchen.
"You need something?" He asks, unable to fully hide the way he jolts with surprise.
Eddie twists the rings on his fingers, something Steve's noticed he does whenever he's nervous. "You have a problem with me, Harrington?
"No, of course not," he answers too fast.
"C'mon, man. You can barely stand to be in the same room with me."
"That's not true! We're in one together right now."
Eddie rolls his eyes so hard that it has to hurt. "Don't do that. Don't pretend like you don't know what I mean. You can't stand to be alone with me for more than thirty seconds."
Steve splutters, searching for a plausible reason.
"Is it cause--" Eddie swallows, hand going back to cup his neck. "Is it cause you heard me tell Robin that I'm gay? Back at the hospital. Is it because--" he cuts himself off.
Something in Steve's chest clenches hard, warmth swooping dangerously in his stomach. "No," Steve says, means it. "I didn't hear. I didn't-- it has nothing to do with that. It's--that's cool. Thanks for--yeah, that's cool."
Eddie's smile is a brittle little thing. "Then, what else?" Eddie pulls a chunk of hair over his mouth. "I can't think of any other reason you'd hate me so much."
"I don't." And Steve hopes it's coming off as genuine. "I promise."
He can't help remember the camaraderie, the understanding, that started to grow between them in the Upside Down. The "don't cha, big boy?" of it all. They could be friends. They should be.
They shouldn't get into it. Not right here, not right now when the kids' splashes and excited screams filter through the sliding door.
"You're a shit liar, Harrington."
"Ed--I'm not--"
"You know what? Don't bother. I'll just--" He jolts in the direction of the front door.
"Don't be stupid, Munson."
"God, I can't believe I didn't see it before. You just fucking loathe me."
"I do not. Grow up."
"Oh, yeah? Then what's your problem?"
"There isn't--"
"Stop lying!"
"You didn't fucking think!" He shouts. Loud enough that the noise outside cuts off. "You pulled that shit in the Upside Down and you almost died! Dustin got hurt!"
Eddie blinks his big brown eyes in stunned surprise.
"I told you, I said, 'dont try to be cute or be a hero or something.' And you know what you said? Do you?"
Eddie won't look at him now. "I had to make a choice, Steve."
"It was the wrong one!"
"I would do it all again. No matter what you say. I would do it to draw the bats away. To protect Dustin."
"But you didn't."
"There was no other way to stop them, Steve! They would've gotten through, into Hawkins."
"It doesn't matter."
"You weren't there! You can't tell me--"
"Yes, I can! I know."
"You don't! You think--"
"I almost lost you!" He screams. "You nearly died in my arms, Eddie. And for what?"
Falling in love with Eddie wasn't easy. It was blood and near death; it was weeks in a cold hospital room while Eddie existed in a drug-induced twilight state; it was agonizing convalescence and physical therapy and changing bandages; it was Eddie leading dnd sessions with bright eyes and contagious enthusiasm, herding the kids to the arcade and video store, theatrically serving snacks at movie night; it was festering, senseless anger at the near loss of something.
Eddie's lips tremble. "Steve, I--"
"It doesn't matter." He turns away to slide a hand down his face in an effort to wipe away the emotion. "You're fine and we're--it doesn't matter."
"I'm sorry," he whispers. "Steve, I'm sorry. I wanted--I thought it would help. I thought--"
And Steve has to admit, he does, the whole terrible contradiction of it all. "I know," he whispers back. "I would've--I know."
"I thought I was protecting Dustin. I thought I was buying you guys time with Vecna." Eddie's voice breaks. "I didn't--I--" He squeezes his eyes shut.
In the quiet of the kitchen, they gravitate to one another, foreheads resting together.
"I should have been there, Ed. I shouldn't have left you two alone. You almost died, and I--"
"Sweetheart, I'm right here. We're right here."
They don't kiss, but they're close enough that their mouths brush with each breath they take.
"Don't do that, again." Steve clenches his fists into Eddie's cutoff t-shirt. "Promise you won't ever--"
"I promise, Stevie. I promise. I'll be by your side until the very end, whatever it is."
#steddie#steve x eddie#steve harrington#eddie munson#ficlet#angst#angst with a happy ending#getting together#falling in love#protective steve harrington#oblivious eddie munson#mutual pining#steve harrington is bad at feelings#not quite rivals not quite enemies but a secret third thing to lovers#it's angst but then it's sweet#we're all traumatized here
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A Barbie AU where the Kens decide, in order to get some recognition, to get individual names.
Steve, whoâs just a Ken very good with kids, is having an identity crisis after his Barbie, journalist Barbie, broke up with him.
Not even picking a name as unique and special as Steve, so much different than Ken, managed to cheer him up.
Everyone keeps saying he should be happy about the change, and discover who he is outside of Barbieâs orbit, but he canât see what was so wrong in their relationship. He loved waiting all day for Barbie to look at him, even if it was for a brief second.
As if going through an existential crisis wasn't enough, he has to do it under the constant mocking of his archnemesis, Ke- Eddie.
Eddie, with his long curly and annoyingly gorgeous hair, who has a sense of style he would give all of his rollerblades for, and who's always there to notice whenever Steve makes a mistake.
Eddie even has his Barbie still by his side, cheerleader Barbie, and every time Steve sees them together he gets a sick feeling in his stomach, like a tummy ache. Doctor Barbie visited him a couple of times and found nothing wrong with him, he imagines he's a little jealous of Eddie for being with a Barbie.
Steve talks about this with Polyglot Barbie, his best friend, annoying her to death.
"Why are we talking about Ken, again?" she interrupts Steve's retelling of his last encounter with Eddie.
"It's Eddie" Steve corrects her.
"Right," she nods. She's very supportive of their silly-name-thing (how most Barbies call it), but she still has trouble remembering all the names, "why are we still talking about him?"
They're hanging out at the park, sitting under a tree, Barbie's leg on top of his, and they're holding hands. It's nice. Steve is happy to have a best friend like Barbie.
Steve looks up, meeting Eddie's gaze. He's sitting at one of the picnic tables not far away from them, doing nothing besides glaring at Steve.
Barbie squeezes his hand to get his attention back, and Steve looks away.
"Because he keeps tormenting me! he's even glaring at me right now, I'm gonna get stress wrinkles!" Steve finally replies, in a distressed tone.
"You're being dramatic," she says, matter-of-factly, "Eddie isn't so bad with you. You know, he kinda treats you like his Barbie."
If Steve had a beating heart, it probably would've stopped right at this second.
"What?"
"You know, he's always looking for you, he is always giddy whenever you give him a crumble of attention. He hangs out where you hang out... why do you think he's sitting all alone at a picnic table, just staring at you?"
"Maybe he's waiting for his girlfriend" he suggests.
"Are you talking about Cheerleader Barbie?" she giggles, "she's not his girlfriend, trust me."
"But he picks on me! all the time! Like this morning, I tripped and he made a comment about my legs!" He gestures at his legs with his free hand.
Barbie tilts her head to the side "you mean this morning at the beach when he held you in his arms for ten minutes to prevent you from falling and Barbie had to tell him to let you go?"
"⌠yeahâ he manages to say. He hadnât realized how long Eddie held him in his arms, he was upset about almost falling in front of him, but he also liked the feeling of his arms around him.
Everything feels different now.
Barbie's look softens "How does this make you feel?"
"I don't know" he answers, honestly "I just can't stop thinking about him."
A loud noise at their right startles them off of their conversation. They turn around to see Eddie lying on the floor, a trash can at his feet.
Steve doesn't give himself the time to realize that Eddie has probably heard their entire conversation and has tripped on that trash can because of it, he just rushes to Eddie's side to help him out.
Eddie stammers while Steve pulls him back up, not making much sense.
Steve is used to see Eddie as an intimidating guy, someone to compete with for Barbieâs attention. He never realized how much he liked to have Eddieâs attention instead, nor how he loved to give that attention back in equal amount.
âNice legsâ he tells him, repeating the same words Eddie told him that morning.
Eddie stops his incoherent stream of words when he hears him âwhat?â
âYou heard meâ Steve says.
âI didâ Eddie admits. He pulls the trash can back up, to have an excuse to not look at Steve when he asks âyou canât stop thinking about me?â
For some reason, thatâs the easiest question Steve has ever had to answer to âyes, I canât.â
Eddie jolts back up startling Steve, the trash can falling out of his hands and hitting the ground once again.
âCoolâ he says, using all of his willpower to hide his excitement by keeping a relaxed face, failing miserably.
âI guessâ Steve grins. Knowing he has that effect on Eddie is making him the most confident he has ever felt in his life.
âSo, since you canât stop thinking about meâŚâ Eddie repeats, in a tone that Steve wouldâve mistaken for a mocking one until few hours ago ââŚwe could hang out on the beach later. Iâll bring my guitar.â
âIâll bring mine too thenâ Steve replies immediately.
Eddie panics âWe canât both have a guitar!â
Steve crosses his arms on his chest âwho says that?â
Eddie opens and closes his mouth a couple of times then mutters, defeated, âfine.â
âGreat!â Steve takes a step forward and gives Eddie a peck on his cheek âIâll see you later.â
Eddie, who makes a face again trying to hide his excitement, nods and turns away âcool.â
He walks away slowly, towards the parkâs exit. Right by the gate, he throws himself into an hedge. Steve can clearly hear him when he screams words along the lines of âFINALLYâ, âI HAVE A DATEâ and âSUBLIMEâ.
Steve turns to Robin who has witnessed the whole thing, while Eddie is still screaming random words from the bushes.
âI think Iâm in love.â
#Iâve been wanting to write this since I saw the movie#but it never felt right#this is the best I could do lmao#in case it wasnât clear Iâm making fun of Steve for going from basic name to basic name lmao#I love him#I just think theyâre neat#steddie#steve harrington#eddie munson#stranger things#steve and eddie#steve x eddie#platonic stobin#barbie#Barbie au#Steddie au#steddie au Barbie
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youtube
Quickspace - They Shoot Horse Don't They?
#quickspace#they shoot horse don't they?#tom cullinan#nina pascale#sean newsham#paul shilton#steve d'enton#post rock#krautrock#noise rock#the death of quickspace#2000#Youtube
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Part One Part Six
Steve wakes with a start, yelping and then immediately panicking when the bed covers feel constricting â it passes almost immediately when he realizes where he is and what woke him.
âHi Eddie,â Steve sighs, blinking the rest of the way awake. He rubs at his crusty eyes, the bedside clock glowing three forty seven at him. Great. âWhatâs up buddy?â
âStee,â Eddie says quietly, like he somehow understands the sanctity of the middle of the night, âow. Dead later,â and then he makes a noise like a fly buzzing. Or a bee. Itâs a fair attempt at a gentle âbzzzzâing noise.
Steve sighs, âokay buddy lets go.â
Eddie turns at the top of the stairs and goes down them on his butt, which Steveâs pretty sure he would find amusing if he wasnât half asleep and half annoyed.
The ground outside is cold enough that Steve hisses when his bare foot hits it, and he does a silly hopping jog to follow Eddie onto the lawn. It is a bee, and itâs moving sluggish and confused on the grass. The weathers getting colder, the time of year plus...probably itâs old?
Steve knows fuck all about bees, but heâs pretty sure individual bees donât live for that long, and that maybe they sort of hibernate in the winter? Or something? Isnât that what all of that honey is for?
Maybe they could bring it into the warm and give it some sugar water or something, Steveâs pretty sure heâs heard that from someone, somewhere along the line, âokay little bee guy, here we go.â Steve uses a finger to encourage the fuzzy bee onto his hand.
Steve stands; thereâs very faint, and probably first of the year, patches of frost on Eddieâs tent. It hasnât formed anywhere else, so itâs probably not that bad yet, but still, itâs chilly enough that Steve hops back across the lawn with some urgency.
In the kitchen, Steve says, âhere Eddie, you take him,â and transfers the bee into Eddieâs cupped hands. He mixes a tiny mount of sugar water in the bottom of a glass, with no idea at all if itâll help or not. The bee should probably be asleep, right? Steve canât remember ever seeing a bee at night, so he assumes they go to bed like sensible bees.
Steve drops a tiny bit of the sugary mixture onto Eddieâs palm, right in front of the beeâs face; he drinks it, so Steve does it again. âOkay, I think we should all try and get some sleep. Eddie, you want to sleep on the couch?â
âSleep on the couch.â
âYeah,â Steve rubs his arms, making âbrrrrâing noises and generally pretending heâs in arctic conditions. He points to the door, âcold outside. Warm here.â
Eddie cocks his head, but seems to get it, so Steve takes the bee, setting it dead center on a couch cushion, and goes back to bed.
Steve wakes again at a much more normal time; blinking at the nine thirty now on his clock and thinking that is way, way better. He wonders vaguely if the bee lived, but he doubts it. Eddie will probably be sad about it; like the bird.
If that was even sadness; if Eddie even understands the concept of death. Steve has no way to know what Eddie thinks about it.
He heads downstairs; vaguely planning his day. He needs a coffee and some breakfast, then get ready; they probably need some groceries. Working opposite shifts to Robin really sucks; he hasnât seen her once yet this week. They talk on the phone though, and she swears she's working on Keith. He should check when he goes in later for a day they both have off so they can hang out; if such a thing even exists.
Maybe the kids will come over for a movie night; Steve does now have unfettered access to all the newest releases...and is it sad that Steveâs lonely enough that he wants to invite over that bunch of mongrels? Maybe, heâs not going to think to much about it.
Steve sets the coffee going then heads into the lounge; Eddieâs curled up into a tight ball, his spine bent at a really fucking weird angle and his tail wrapped around himself; Steve knows then that heâs never seen Eddie sleep before, because heâs definitely never seen whatever the hell is happening here. Itâs like a cat. Or a snake, maybe. The way heâs all curled up tight on himself; makes Steveâs back hurt just looking at him.
At the other end of the couch is the sad, still, little body of the bee. Steve stares at it, listening to the faint noise from the kitchen; the coffee pot gurgles a little.
Eddie blinks awake, unwrapping himself.
âMorning Eddie.â
âMorning Stee,â Eddie blinks sadly at the bee, and then, very gently, leans over and nudges it with a claw tip, âdead?â
âYeah buddy, Iâm sorry. But at least he was comfortable, right? Warm and...sugared up.â
Eddie hums noncommittally, watching as Steve scoops up the bee and following him into the kitchen. Steve very nearly puts the bee in the trash can, but veers off at the last moment. It feels a little wrong, throwing the little dude out; he also doesnât know what Eddie would thinks and feels vaguely like Eddie might...judge him.
Steve heads outside and deposits him in a plant pot instead. When he comes back in, Eddieâs raiding the fridge, âpear inied. Grapes inied. Celery inied.â
Steve sighs, âI know buddy, Iâm sorry. Iâll go and get more, okay?â Steve goes out to the freezer in the garage and comes back with a whole bag of frozen peas, and that seems to completely make up for it. He pours Eddie a bowl of peas, and himself a bowl of cereal, sticking a spoon in both. He downs the coffee so he doesnât have to make two trips.
âCouch, TV?â
Eddie nods, following Steve. Eddie turns on the TV since Steveâs hands are full, and they sit side by side on the couch, Eddie very carefully using his spoon.
âCalled?â
âItâs a toothbrush.â
Eddie watches from his seat on the floor next to Steve; heâs high enough to easily lean his elbows on the counter top.
âWhy?â
And âcalled?â Steve can handle all day long, but âwhy?â has rapidly become a tricky thing to navigate.
âTo clean.â Steve grins big as he can, clicking his teeth together, âteeth.â
âTeeth,â Eddie snaps back, then turns to the mirror, clicking his teeth at himself. âEddidie clean teeth?â
Steve snorts a laugh, and Eddie looks at him, tilting his head but smiling too. Steve figures that a solid ninety five percent of the time, Eddieâs just happy to be involved.
âOkay buddy I think I haveâŚâ Steve rummages in the cupboard under the sink, âah ha!â
âAh ha!â
âHere you go,â Steve unwraps the new toothbrush, really, really fucking glad itâs a different color to his own. âSteveâs is blue, Eddieâs is purple.â
âPurple.â
âYou got it buddy,â Steve wets the bristles of both, and then puts the tiniest little dab of toothpaste on Eddieâs before putting the proper amount on his own.
âHere you go.â Steve hands it over, and then Starts brushing his teeth. Eddie holds his own brush, watching Steve closely in the mirror before attempting it himself. His movements are slow and cautious, be he definitely gets the idea.
Steve rinses his brush under the water, leaving it running as Eddie does the same. Eddie has no trouble dropping his toothbrush into the cup next to Steveâs.
Eddie explores the bath next; all this shit must have been here when Eddie spent a night in the tub, but Steve was beaten to hell and still a little fucking high on Russian truth serum when all that was going on, so he honestly doesnât really remember much of those first couple of days. âCalled?â
âShampoo. Itâs to clean hair,â Steve tugs on his hair to demonstrate, âhair.â
âEddidie clean hair?â
âUh. I mean, if you want to?â
Eddie gets the cap open, squeezing the bottle carefully and sniffing the hole, âgood.â
Steveâs current shampoo smells like apples, and Steve realizes whatâs going to happen just as itâs too late to stop Eddie from sticking his tongue out.
Eddie smacks his lips together, looking truly disgusted, âfucking gross.â
âHey! Language!â Steve takes the bottle from a grinning Eddie. He looks so pleased with himself Steve canât stay mad, âdamn kids,â he sighs. Eddie definitely got that one from Max, the little reprobate. âOkay, if weâre going to do this, in the tub.â
Eddie points, âin?â
âYup.â
Eddie manages it, hoisting himself up and the flicking his tail and sliding his ass over the edge, âEddidie in tub.â
âYou got it buddy,â Steve takes the shower head down, pointing it away from Eddie while it warms up, then moving it a little onto his tail, âfeel okay?â
âWarm,â Eddie reaches out to feel the water, âgood.â
âOkay, here we go then.â
Eddie sits patiently, head tilted back as Steve wets his hair down and then adds the shampoo. Eddieâs hair is thick, like, insanely thick, and it takes a bit for Steve to work the lather in. The individual strands are thick too, coarse and a little wiry. The back of Eddieâs scalp feels strange too, like his skull had ridges on it; lines that all join together right at the back of Eddieâs head. Youâd never be able to see it through his hair.
Steve goes through half a bottle of conditioner on him, but Eddie sits patiently through all of it, flicking his fingers through the water, even when Steve combs it through and catches on snags, Eddieâs doesnât complain at all. He tilts his head back easily when Steve directs him to, âokay, nearly finished.â
Once theyâre done, Eddie climbs out of the bath and onto a towel, sitting on the floor while Steve dries his hair; he gets the idea and dries his arms and torso himself. Steveâs so used to looking at him that he doesnât find the lack of belly button and nipples at all odd any more. Just looks normal. Looks like Eddie.
âOkay buddy, just let me grab a shower, and then you can help me write a grocery list,â Eddie follows Steve into the bedroom, watching as Steve grabs clothes before heading for his shower. Steve clicks the lock on just in case; Eddieâs not exactly worked out stuff like boundaries or personal space yet.
When Steve comes out, Eddieâs waiting patiently, sitting on the edge of Steveâs bed, wearing his yellow sweater.
Part Eight
#eddie munson#steve harrington#stranger things#steddie#ficlet#ao3 author#pre steddie#mermeddie#mermaid eddie#upside down creature eddie#Fish Guy Eddie#creature eddie munson#creature
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It had started like a normal night. Sharing a pillow, Steve playing with Eddieâs rings as they playfully argued over something stupid. Eddie had just been going into the true differences between black and death metal when Steve fell asleep, mid-lecture. Eddie didnât mind though. If anything, he kind of liked watching Steve sleep, how peaceful he looked. But that didnât mean he could do it all night.
Eddie sighed when he sat up, flicking on the bedside light as he fumbled for a book. He was still wide-awake, probably hours away from sleep yet. Getting lost in a Tolkien book was the best remedy he could come up with.Â
He started reading, glancing down at Steve here and there as he went. He always shifted in his sleep when Eddie moved, nearly like he was unconsciously seeking him out. He ended up curled around him, his forehead pressed against Eddieâs hip. One arm thrown over Eddieâs lap, the other draped behind his back, nearly like he was hugging him. Not that Eddie minded. It felt nice, warm. A pleasant weight that made Eddie feel good in a way he couldnât quite articulate.Â
Though⌠if Eddie was being honest with himself, heâd have to admit that it was a bit much. It was too domestic, on the cusp of a weirdness that Eddie shouldnât ignore.Â
But he did.Â
âEddie.â
Eddie hummed at the sound, not looking up from his book, âYeah?â
It wasnât exactly out of the ordinary for Steve to sleepily mumble out his name. It was usually to be a little shithead and pout at him until Eddie got him water. But Steve didnât answer him, he just made a small noise before rubbing his head against Eddieâs side, still fast asleep.Â
Eddie didnât think much of it, besides a passing thought that he was too cute for his own good. God, whatever guy did end up with him was going to be one lucky son of a bitch. The second he got out of this town, Eddie was sure guys would be all over him. He just hoped he picked one that deserved him.
Eddie went back to reading, fully expecting Steve to stay quiet for the rest of the night.Â
But around half an hour later Steve was mumbling something again, something that Eddie couldnât quite make out. Though he knew heâd heard it.
Eddie glanced down at him, vaguely amused. If this was the famous âtalking in his sleepâ thing then Eddie was going to give him so much shit for being a drama queen. He set his book back on the nightstand, shutting off the light as he settled back into bed, draping an arm around Steveâs waist as he waited for more.Â
It was dark in the room, with just the barest sliver of street lights peeking through his closed window. But it was enough for Eddie to get a good look at him. Steve's brow was furrowed, his eyes moving underneath the lids as he slept.Â
It looked like an intense dream, one that Eddie could sympathize with. He reached out, brushing a bit of Steveâs hair back, smiling to himself when Steveâs face started to relax. He always looked so calm when he was asleep, nearly sweet. Eddie just hoped he wasnât having a nightmare-
âMm, Eddie, m-more.â
The hand Eddie had in his hair stilled, his mind not quite catching up to what he heard.
What did he just say?
Steve sighed as Eddie stared at him, his lips parting just enough to murmur, âT-There. Right there.â
Eddieâs eyes widened as Steve started to get louder, too loud for him to mistake what was happening for anything else.Â
âMmph, Eddie,â Steve whined, so clear it was almost startling, âWant it. Want you.â
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âYou know, youâd probably be more comfortable in bed.â
Steve groans. Quietly.
âIâm gonna take that noise to mean, âYes, Eddie, youâre so right, I should take my sick ass to bed!â, to which I am going to say, âThank you, Steve for acknowledging how right I am.ââ
If Eddieâs plan is to irritate Steve until he manages to get up off the couch and shamble himself to their bedroom, heâs on the right track.
But the thing is, Eddie is right (unfortunately) â Steve knows heâd be more comfortable in bed. The couch is too short and the cushions are too worn and the seats are just a little too narrow for him to really relax. But at the same time, the flu is trying to murder him, and heâs got a fever, and everything aches, and he doesnât want to move.
Rather than explaining any of this to Eddie through his sore throat, Steve instead grumbles, âYour impression of me sucks.â
âWell, Iâll work on that while youâre resting,â Eddie drawls.
Steve manages a faintly agreeable-sounding noise and then pulls a throw pillow over his face.
âSteve,â Eddie says.
Steve doesnât move.
âSteve,â Eddie tries again.
Steve is still not compelled to move.
âSteeeve. Come on.â Eddie reaches out to poke Steve in the side, who belatedly raises a hand to swat him away.
âDonât wanna move,â Steve mumbles.
âYouâre never allowed to call me dramatic again,â Eddie says.
âMph,â Steve replies.
He hates being sick â really sick, the kind that his body just wonât tolerate pushing through. If he canât pretend to be well, he feels he has no other recourse but to be dramatic.
âDo you want me to carry you?â Eddie offers. He sounds like heâs trying not to laugh.
Steve snorts. âYeah, sure.â
âAlright, letâs go,â Eddie declares, and Steve has just enough time to pull the pillow off his face and look up before Eddie is scooping him up off the couch.
âWhat the fuck!â Steve shouts, arms locking almost instinctively around Eddieâs neck as Eddie gets one arm settled beneath the crook of his knees and the other around his back.
âRelax, weâll have you in bed in no time,â Eddie says, swinging around to face the living room door with a grunt and trundling forward.
âYouâre gonna drop me,â Steve says, winding his arms more tightly around Eddieâs neck; heâs pretty sure no one has picked him up or carried him anywhere since he was maybe eight years old.
âYe of little faith,â Eddie replies, only slightly strained.
âMe of exactly the right amount of faith, which isnât a whole damn lot, no,â Steve insists, ducking forward when Eddie lists a little too close to one of the hallway walls.
âYouâll be fine,â Eddie says. âIâm not gonna drop you.â
They reach the bedroom door and, as heâd promised, Eddie doesnât drop Steve.
He does, however, whack Steveâs head on the doorjamb.
And then he drops Steve.
It doesnât end up being much of a fall; Eddie only loses his hold on Steveâs legs, and with Steveâs death grip around Eddieâs neck, he mostly just lands awkwardly on his feet before tumbling down onto his ass with a thud and a quiet, âOw.â
Eddie is on his knees beside him in an instant. âHoly shit, I hit your head.â
âYeah, thanks for that. My head was the one part of me that didnât hurt,â Steve grumbles, rubbing behind his ear, where his skull had connected with the doorframe.
âOh my god, I hit your head,â Eddie says again.
Steve blinks at him. âYeah, we established that. Did you hit your head, too, orââ
âShit, shit, are you dizzy? Is your vision blurry? Wait, fuck, youâre not wearing your contacts â are things blurrier than normal?â Eddie places his hands on either side of Steveâs face and stares into his eyes, as if heâll be able to tell that way if Steveâs brain has finally been knocked loose. âDo you feel anything, like, swelling? Bleeding? Leaking?â
âIâm pretty sure you canât feel that sort of thing happening,â Steve says, and Eddieâs face crumples.
âShit, youâre right, I should take you to the doctor,â Eddie declares, moving to stand up.
Steve grabs him by the arm and pulls him back down. âEddie, Iâm fine.â
âNo, your brain could be leaking or some shit, and youâre gonna have, like, an aneurism, and youâre gonna die, and itâs going to be all my fault because I hit your head and I killed you,â Eddie rambles, shaking his own head.
Steve isnât sure if any of that is even correct, but heâs willing to bet Robin has been sharing her worries about Steveâs head trauma with Eddie. âThatâs notââ
âYour head is the one part of you we really canât afford to hit!â
âAs opposed to the rest of me?â Steve asks, one eyebrow raised.
âIf it comes down to it, yeah!â Eddie bursts out. âDo you even know how many times youâve hit your head?â
âAre you asking because you donât know, or because youâre afraid I donât remember?â Steve asks drily. âBecause you werenât even there for most of those times, man.â
âItâs not funny,â Eddie says, and heâs definitely trying to sound stern, but heâs verging a little bit on whiny; he seems like heâs starting to calm down, since Steve has so far failed to collapse and die.
âOkay, then, seriously, Eddie â Iâm fine,â Steve promises. âYou didnât even hit me that hard, it barely hurts.â
âSteve, I love you, but you have a severely skewed sense of pain and should not be trusted to rate it on your own,â Eddie says.
Steve rolls his eyes. âFine. Here,â he grabs one of Eddieâs hands and pulls it around to where his head had hit the jamb, âfeel. Are there any bumps? Cuts? Anything seem out of place?â
With a frown of deep concentration, Eddie runs his fingers gently from the top of Steveâs skull to the base, occasionally pressing a little harder, but never hard enough to hurt.
âGood?â Steve asks, once Eddieâs had a minute to feel for himself.
Eddieâs shoulders slump. âI guess.â
âAh, donât be disappointed. Maybe itâll be a concussion next time,â Steve offers.
Eddie shoots him a wildly unimpressed glare. âThatâs not funny.â
âItâs a little funny,â Steve decides, but he takes Eddieâs hand from his head and brings it around to press a kiss to the back of it.
Thereâs definitely a smile ticking at the corners of Eddieâs mouth, but Steve doesnât point it out.
âDo you want some ice, or something?â Eddie asks, and Steve shakes his head.
âWhat I want is to walk over to the bed and lie down, and I want you to come with me,â Steve says. âAnd in an hour, I want you to bring me more Tylenol and some of that really good tea that Joyce sent over. Deal?â
This time, Eddie does smile. âI think I can handle that.â
Steve smiles back. âGood.â
They get themselves situated, Eddie at Steveâs back with an arm slung over him, a single blanket pulled up to their waists (âPretty sure you still have a fever, sweetheart,â Eddie had insisted. âYouâre gonna cook yourself to death if you cover up.â), and in the dim, sleepy light filtering through their curtains, Steve presses back further into Eddieâs chest.
âI like that you care so much,â he says quietly, and Eddie squeezes him a little more tightly.
He shifts enough that he can press his lips to the spot where Steve had bumped his head. âAlways will,â he murmurs, and hell if Steve doesnât believe him.
[Prompt: Bridal carries]
#steddie#steve harrington#eddie munson#stranger things#eddiesteve#pretty sure steve's method is not medically approved for testing for head trauma but he's fine#solar wrote
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All Your Fault (Steve Harrington x Henderson!Reader)
Word Count: 12.5K
Summary: In no world could Y/N like Steve Harrington, that's what she kept telling herself despite everybody's insistence that he was a good guy. They couldn't possibly be right, could they?
Warnings - Mature Language, Suicide, Mentions Of Sex, Death, Injuries, Bullying, Drug Use
A/N: This is my longest fic yet and of course it's for the one and only Steve Harrington! Just wanted to say that I know this doesn't follow the exact plot and I have changed some things so it fits in with the storyline. Also I am not condoning bullying in any way, shape or form!! Not proofread so forgive me.
âHey, dingus, we need a ride!â
My bedroom door swings open, just about slamming against the wall before the irritating voice of my younger brother reverberates throughout my bedroom. Startled by the noise, my head snaps in Dustinâs direction. Not expecting to see his little group of friends in tow or for them to be in the company of Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley. Who I know them to spend a lot of time with nowadays despite my incessant complaints about Harrington being quite possibly the worst person on planet.
âDude! Knock much?â I groan, swiftly closing the notebook that I had previously been writing in, in order to avoid any wandering eyes. âI was in the middle of something!â
âWhat? Making out with your stuffed toys?â Dustin jokes, resulting in a few snickers from his friends and a roll of their eyes from the older teens.
âIâd be happy to make out with you.â Mike comments, my brother throwing a small tap to the back of his head in disapproval.
âEw gross. Get out of my bedroom you little perverts!âÂ
âListen dickhead, mom and dad have gone to the movies and if Iâm remembering correctly they said you have to drive me places when theyâre not here. So, weâll be taking that ride now please.âÂ
âFuckâs sake.â I grumble, combing my fingers through my hair in annoyance. âDoesnât your new best friend Steve drive?â
My voice is laced with malice, eyes fixated on the older boy with a glare, eyebrows raised as I await his response. Not that I needed any confirmation, everybody in Hawkins knows that Steve drives. God, he never shuts up about his deep red BMW, itâs one of his more insufferable qualities.
âYeah, my car is kind of in the garage right now. Itâs gonna be out of action for a while.â He admits, cheeks flushing a soft scarlet indicating his embarrassment.Â
âSo that makes you our designated driver.â Dustin tells me, a smug look on his face as he knows that I have no option but to accept defeat. âPlus, your truck is a lot bigger than Steveâs car. You wonât even have to speak to us because weâll sit in the bed!â
âFine! But I am not giving you a ride home because Iâve got a shift at the roller rink tonight and I cannot afford to take another night off!â I state, reluctantly grabbing my keys and throwing my fur coat over my shoulders.
Making my way towards the group, theyâre quick to make their way down the staircase, scurrying out the front door as though afraid I may change my mind at any given second. I take my time locking up the house, wanting to delay the inevitability of having Steve Harrington in my truck for as long as I physically can. Sure, itâs annoying having to cart my brother and his friends around the town of Hawkins at their will, but the kids, I can deal with. One of my childhood bullies, not so much.Â
Strolling over to the garage, itâs hard to miss the way Steve and Robin stand close to one another, giggling like school girlâs at whatever they were discussing. With furrowed brows, I canât help but wonder when they became friends. Not only is Robin a year younger than Steve and I, but sheâs also the complete opposite of Steveâs normal company. After all, he is friends with cheerleaders and jocks, Buckley is in the school band and spends most of her free time studying other languages. There is no world in which they could possibly be friends and yet here they are.
âSteve and Robin are gonna ride up front with you.â Dustin speaks, clambering into the bed of the truck with very little grace.
âWhat? No, you can all get in the back!â I argue, offering Max a hand as she struggles to pull herself up.
âSorry but eight of us back here is too much of a squeeze, guess youâll just have to make do.â Lucas remarks, arguing my brotherâs case for him, forcing me to plaster on a fake smile as if I couldnât be happier.
âOkay. Letâs just hope I donât crash on the way, Iâd hate to see a six body pile up on the side of the road.â My tone is ominous and I catch the slight gleam of fear in each and every one of the kidâs eyes. âWhere am I taking you assholes?â
âStarcourt please Y/N.â Max hastily replies, hand clutching the side of the truck so tight her knuckles are turning white and I smirk to myself as I close the tailgate, pleased I have managed to instill a sense of panic in the usually overly confident group.
Hopping up into the driverâs seat, Iâm about to turn on the ignition when out of the corner of my eye, I register that Steve has taken it upon himself to choose the middle seat. Situating himself comfortably between Robin and I.
âUh no. Not happening. You two need to switch sides.âÂ
âWhat why?â Steve questions and I could be wrong but Iâm almost positive there is a twinge of hurt in his tone.
âBecause I donât mind Robin.â I smile sweetly at the girl, before replacing it with a scowl as my eyes lay on the chestnut haired doofus. âYou, on the other hand, Iâd rather take a knife to the eye, than sit besides you.â
As much as it feels like a punch to the gut when I spot the pained expression wash over Harringtonâs face, it is completely overshadowed by the sense of pride that I feel at being able to make him feel small, the same way him and his posse of imbeciles did to me for years. I know, deep down, that I should be the bigger person, that just because he treated me poorly throughout our school years that I shouldnât do the same to him. Yet, Iâm resentful. Iâm resentful and having accepted the cruelty of this world, Iâm also bitter. No longer the sweet and optimistic young girl that I once was.
âYeah, I actually canât take the middle seat.â Robin confesses, an awkward smile resting on her face. âI get real bad claustrophobia.âÂ
With an exasperated huff, I focus my eyes on the road as we begin the drive, doing my best to ignore the passenger sitting beside me. Even if I am trying to distract myself, Iâm unable to hide my annoyance, hands gripping the steering wheel so hard, Iâm afraid it may shatter beneath me.
Fortunately itâs only a short ten minute drive to the Starcourt Mall, as long as traffic is in my favor, I should even shave off a couple of minutes. Though the silence within the small space is deafening, frustrating me even more. Before I can stop myself, Iâm reaching over to turn on the radio, hoping the joyful melodies of Joe Jacksonâs Steppinâ Out will boost my mood before my shift.
Unluckily for me, as I reach to grab the steering wheel once again, my hand lightly brushes over Steveâs hand, causing me to flinch away with such force it feels as though I have been electrocuted.Â
âSorry.â Steve mumbles, tucking his hands away into his pockets to avoid any more uncomfortable interactions.
âSo, Iâm sensing a teeny bit of tension here.â Robin comments, stating the obvious.
âYeah, no shit Robin.â I snap, feeling my entire body go stiff at her teasing.
Glancing over at the two teens, I take note of the way Robin slumps down into the seat at my words. Folding her arms over her chest as if sheâs a child that has just been scolded by their parents.Â
âWhy are the kids so desperate to go to Starcourt anyway?â I ask, not directing the question at either of them in particular in an attempt to change the subject, feeling slightly guilty at my previous outburst.
âOh um, weâre meeting Eddie, just thought itâd be nice to take that bunch of losers out for the day you know. Nancy and Jonathan might even be joining us later too!â Robin explains, smiling to herself as she peers out the back window to make sure the kids are doing fine.
âBesides, they deserves a break with everything thatâs been-â
âWhat Steve means to say is that theyâve had a lot on at the moment, what with school. We think theyâre getting a little stressed.â Robin interrupts, doing her best to subtly elbow Steveâs stomach, though Iâm able to spot it, mostly because his body jerks into mine as she does so.
âWhy do I feel like thereâs something youâre not telling me?â I ask, slyly peering over at them from the corner of my mouth.
âNope, weâre not hiding anything.â Robin asserts, turning away from me to gaze out of the window.
âYeah, nothing to tell. Definitely nothing going on.â Steve agrees, the haste in which they both answered only raising my suspicions.
Before I can question them even further, I realize Iâm pulling into the Starcourt parking lot. Quickly finding a space and turning off the ignition, I donât give the duo any time to get out of the car before Iâm turning the child lock on, forcing them to remain in the vehicle with me.
âI swear to God, if my baby brother is in any sort of trouble and you havenât told me, Iâll kill the pair of you, okay?â I ask, both of them nodding their heads furiously at my threat and leaping out of the passenger door the moment that I unlock it.
Rolling down my window, I can hear the kids hopping over the side of the truck, eagerly chattering amongst themselves at the plans they have made for the day. Tiny smile forming on my face as I light a cigarette, watching Dustin jokingly fight with Steve. The interaction holds no maliciousness, I can see no sign of the older boy deliberately trying to hurt him and for a split second I find myself questioning whether it could be possible that the great King Steve has changed in his ways. However, Iâm quick to shake that thought away.
âDo my eyes deceive me or is that Y/N Henderson?â Eddie Munsonâs voice calls from a mere few feet away.
âOh shit.â I whisper, taking a long drag of my cigarette before jumping out of the truck and resting my back against the door, waiting for him to approach.
Itâs safe to say Eddie and I have a complicated relationship. What started out as him simply being nothing more than my dealer, blossomed into a somewhat beautiful friendship. Considering weâre an unlikely duo, we have a lot in common. Sharing similar taste in films, books and sense of humor.
I suppose it was inevitable that weâd end up sleeping together. Fuelled by our drug induced state, we shared a very hot and very exciting night of passion together. Following with me sneaking out of his trailer first thing the next morning after I had slowly come to my senses and discerned that our relationship should remain just friends. Not wanting to pursue anything at this moment in time.
âHey Eddie, itâs been a while.â I comment, flicking the ash from my cigarette onto the ground as he places an arm beside my head, caging me between his body and the truck.
âI never heard from you.â He speaks quietly, doing his best to avoid the attention of the group standing not too far from us.
âIâm sorry. Iâve had a lot going on.â I mumble, looking anywhere but the boy in front of me.
As my gaze finds the group, my eyes instantly fall upon Steve Harrington. Heâs speaking to Max, clearly in some sort of debate with her that looks like it may be about to explode into a full blown argument, yet his attention is solely focused on me. Observing the close proximity between me and the metalhead. His eyes falling to my lips as I allow the smoke to exhale from my mouth.
âYou know, you could at least look at me when Iâm talking to you.â Eddie chuckles, attempting to hide the hurt undertone in his voice, head rotating to follow the direction of my eyeline.
âSorry, I just donât get what Harringtonâs problem is. Heâs been staring over here this entire time.â I tell him, finally staring up at the tall boy.
âIsnât it obvious?â He asks, teasing smile resting upon his lips. I shake my head slowly, dropping the cigarette to the ground. âHe thinks youâre hot.â
My hands slap against his chest instinctively, the idea being completely and utterly absurd to me that I have to laugh.Â
âIâm serious! Look at you, youâre a fucking smoke show.â Eddie asserts, pushing his argument even more as he sneaks another glance over to the topic of our conversation. âWant me to prove it?â
The idea of Steve Harrington finding me even remotely attractive is so far off the table that I find myself entertained by the idea of proving Eddie wrong. Iâm sure heâs simply intrigued by the idea of me and the freak being friends, nothing more.Â
With a small nod, Eddieâs hands drop to my waist, touch as light as a feather to not push any boundaries that I may not be comfortable with. Playing along with his antics, I take the lapels of his leather jacket in my hands, pulling his body impossibly closer to mine. The hard expression on Steveâs face is difficult to miss as Eddieâs head rests in the crook of my neck, peppering gentle kisses along the base.
âEw Eddie, come on man! Thatâs my sister!â Dustinâs whines pull us back to reality and Eddie takes a dramatic step away from me to please the curly haired young boy.
Although we now stand with plenty of space between the two of us, Harringtonâs face remains in the same cold expression as before. Jaw clenched tightly as his eyes flick between Eddie and I. Leaving me more confused than ever at what his problem is.
âAlright, see you later kids.â I shout, climbing back into my truck and leaving them in the capable hands of their babysitters. âDonât be causing any trouble!â
***
Steve could think of nothing other than the mean girl that had reluctantly drove them to the mall. It didnât matter how many stores they went in, or arcade games they played, he just couldnât get her off his mind. Wondering why she had such a huge vendetta against him. What could he possibly have done to this girl, that he is almost certain he has never met before, to cause her to act in such an unpleasant way towards him.
He knew he hadnât been the nicest of guys throughout high school, caring more about his popularity and how his friends perceived him than being a decent person. However, he was sure heâd remember if he had been rude to her. He was sure he wouldnât have been rude to a girl like her. Hell, he was wondering why he hadnât pursued her sooner. Her beauty indescribable and more radiant than any other girl he had seen before.
âSteve, whatâs going on? Iâm regretting picking you to be on my team!â Dustin exclaims, frustrated at the loss of yet another game due to Steveâs lack of focus.
âThat was your sister?â He asks in disbelief, still completely overwhelmed by the limited interaction they had shared hours prior.
âYeah, sheâs a full on bitch right?â Dustin comments, unaware of his friendâs infatuation.
âHas she always been that unkind?â Steve asks, causing Dustin to look up at him with a questioning glint in his eye.
âOh you got to face her wrath did you?â The younger boy laughs, amused at the thought of his normally cool and charming friend being bitched out by his older sister. âYeah, she still hates you dude, never shuts up about you actually.â
âWait, she talks about me?â His tone is hopeful, feeling pleased to know that heâs on her mind. I mean, thatâs got to be a good sign, right?
âCalm down loverboy. Itâs not a good thing.â Dustin smirks, though when he sees the downcast look on his friend's face, he canât but sigh, patting him on the shoulder lightly. âLook, I think youâre cool, smart, charming, and some would say classically handsome but my sister usually refers to you as a no good, shit for brains, wank stain. Amongst other things, thatâs usually her preferred term.â
Steve sighs at his words, combing his fingers through his hair awkwardly as he comes to terms with the fact that he quite possibly has a zero percent chance of becoming romantically involved with the intriguing girl. He knew that since leaving high school his luck with the ladies had severely dwindled, struggling to maintain a relationship that didnât solely focus on sex, and yet, his heart sank a little lower knowing that the one girl that had truly piqued his interest was the one girl he would never stand a chance with.
Dustin, on the other hand, took pity on the boy he looked up to. Despite the countless tales of torture and misery that he knew Steve had put his sister through during their school years, he knew that the boy had changed. Sure, heâd felt sympathy towards Steve when he ended up working at Scoops Ahoy following his graduation, knowing how much it took a hit to his ego that heâd lost his King Steve title and was now serving children scoops of ice cream every passing day. However, he knew that the shitty job was a good thing for his friend, alongside his role as the unofficial group babysitter and assisting in their pursuit to save Hawkins, Dustin knew deep down that taking such a low blow was Steveâs saving grace. Reminding him that he wasnât in fact above everybody else and truly changing him for the better. The young boy had seen it, but he also couldnât blame his sister for being blind to it.
âLook Steve, I know that youâre a good person and I know that youâve changed but you put Y/N through hell. She struggled a lot at the hands of you and your friends and I know sheâd kill me for telling you this but sheâs been in therapy since she was fourteen years old because of what you guys did to her. We were really worried about her actually.â Dustin admits, Steveâs breath catching in his throat as he hears the shakiness in the boyâs voice. âMy parents still are. She didnât even bother applying to college, and now she spends most of her time hiding herself away in her room or getting high with Eddie.â
âDustin Iâm so sorry, I donât even remember her.â Steve states, struggling to get over the sinking feeling in his stomach that seems to be consuming him.
âOf course you donât remember her, you only thought about yourself and your stupid friends back then.â Those words hit Steve like a ton of bricks, never had anybody truly called him out on his former behavior, not to this extent anyway. âLook, you just need to show her youâre a good guy, Iâm not gonna say itâll be easy because if I know Y/N, then I know she can be a cruel, heartless bitch, but I also know that she has a good heart and as long as you can prove to her that youâre sorry and that youâve changed then sheâll come around. Maybe just wait until after weâve destroyed the Mind Flayer.â
***
Monday nights at the roller rink are always notoriously quiet, only a couple of people passing through our doors for the majority of the night. Iâve argued with my manager on numerous occasions, pleading with him to change our closing time from eleven to nine, but to no avail, I fail every single time. As a punishment for doing so, Iâm placed on almost every monday night shift alone, which wouldnât be too bad, had I something to do. Instead I stand at the counter, lazily snacking on some popcorn that I most definitely didnât pay for, awaiting any customers that may wander into the building.
Hearing the large doors squeak open, I immediately straighten my posture, my best winning smile slapped on my face as I prepare to serve the group that just strolled through the doors. That is until I see the group just so happens to be the same group that I dropped off at the mall earlier in the day. Smile dropping from my face almost instantly.
âWhat do you want?âÂ
âDonât you mean, welcome to Paradise Skate World, how can I be of assistance?â Eddie jokes, leaning against the countertop.
âNo, I mean what do you want?â
Wasting no time, the group excitedly shout their shoe sizes at me, a flurry of words and numbers that I struggle to understand. After swapping a few pairs multiple times, I finally manage to line nine pairs of rollerskates along the countertop, the kids frantically grabbing at them and discarding their personal shoes all over the floor. Not caring to use the cubby holes provided.
âThatâll be twenty seven dollars please.â My voice is monotonous, not caring to be pleasant with them, not that they seem to care.
Steve doesnât speak as he hands over thirty dollars, mumbling a quiet âthank youâ as I hand him his change. He sits beside Robin on one of the dirty old benches, helping her to lace up the boots before slowly escorting her over to the rink where she is left in the capable hands of the younger teens. Who, for whatever reason, all seem to be incredibly confident on eight wheels.
Having lost sight of Steve as my attention was fixed on the kids gleefully skating around the rink, I round the counter preparing to pick up all of their discarded shoes, only to see the boy already on the floor matching pairs of shoes together.
âOh, you donât have to do that.â I tell him, joining him on the carpet to gather together the rest of the shoes.
If I didnât dislike him so much, Iâd think his actions were sweet. Paying for the entire group and cleaning up after them, heâs a customer service worker's dream, yet I still canât help but feel resentful. Why couldnât he have been like this in high school?
âI know, but those guys make so much mess that itâs not fair to leave it all for you to clean up.â Steve comments, placing the last pair of shoes in one of the cubby holes. He rises to his feet slowly before offering his hand to help me up. However, I choose not to accept his help, rising to my feet without his assistance.
âThank you, I appreciate it.â
He smiles softly at me, returning to the bench to remove his own shoes and placing the rollerskates on. When he rises from the bench, I canât help but giggle at the shakiness in his legs, standing like a baby deer, he just about makes it to the countertop before needing to grab hold of it in order to keep himself upright. Resulting in a loud laugh from me, finding much amusement in the situation.
âNeed some help Harrington?â I ask through my roars of laughter, having to cover my mouth to keep my volume down as he looks at me with sheer panic in his eyes.
âYou sure you donât wanna just stand there and laugh at me in my time of need?â He questions, flashing a cheesy smile my way to ensure I know that he is joking.
With a small sigh, I make my way over to him, taking his hands in mine, forcing him to let go of the countertop that he was clutching onto.Â
âI may not like you Steve Harrington, but Iâm not gonna let you fall on your ass like an idiot, not with the kids watching.â I state, walking backwards at a snailâs pace to allow him to find his feet. âBesides, itâs company policy to offer a hand when needed.â
Steve laughs at my words, a deep chuckle that causes my mouth to quirk upwards. Am I actually smiling in the presence of Steve Harrington? Shaking my head, I rid myself of the contentment on my face.Â
âIâm going to embarrass myself arenât I?â He asks, staring over my shoulder towards the rink with worry. âI donât know why they thought this was a good idea, Iâve never skated in my life.â
âThatâs probably exactly why they wanted to come here. They get to embarrass you and they also get to annoy the fuck out of me at the same time.âÂ
âIâll try my best to keep them from annoying you, itâs the least I can do after ruining your peaceful evening.â His voice is soft, and I find myself unable to look away from his face.
It comes as no shock that the boy is attractive, he had girls falling over their feet for him since the moment he hit puberty. Iâd never understood the obsession with King Steve, though I suppose Iâd never been this close to him before. Never able to see how boyishly handsome he was.Â
Chestnut brown hair that falls lazily over his forehead, coffee coloured eyes that hold a deep softness and a cheeky twinkle. His nose falls in a perfect slope, lips plump in a gorgeous salmon color with a sprinkling of light freckles scattered across his face. He truly is the epitome of beauty, itâs just such a shame that his personality is completely lacking.
Iâm snapped out of my trance when I feel the hardwood of the rink beneath my feet, hesitantly letting go of Steveâs hands as he pushes himself forward ever so slowly. Testing the waters as to how far he can go without falling flat on his face.
âWell you did it. Now you just have to show that pack of dickheads that their ploy to embarrass you isnât going to work.âÂ
He smiles at my comment, opening his mouth to say something in return, however, I spin myself around and hastily walk back to my position at the counter before he can say anything. Muttering a small âhave funâ as I do so. Not wanting to be entranced by him further and not wanting to forget about all the shit he put me through just because we had a fairly nice interaction for all of ten minutes.
In an effort to distract myself, I busy myself with cleaning any and every surface behind the counter. Very unusual behavior for me, but at this point, I would do anything to get the thought of Steve possibly being a good person out of my mind. Even if I have to spend my time cleaning to do so. Though, I guess anything is better than gazing longingly over at the boy in the rink and trying to ignore the racing of my heart.
âYou know, I used to think Steve was a bad guy too.â
Robinâs voice startles me as I donât notice her standing by the counter, sheâs smirking playfully at me.Â
âHow the fuck are you and him friends? I mean, no offense but youâre exactly the type of person whose life he wouldâve ruined in high school.â I donât mean to come across as rude but my tone definitely says otherwise, Robin raising her eyebrows at my statement, clearly taking offense.
âSteve has a good heart, heâs doing his best. I know itâs not my place to say anything and I have no idea what went down between the two of you but what I do know is that if he can reconcile with Nancy, Jonathan and Eddie then perhaps thatâs a sign you should give him a chance.â Robin remarks and against my best judgment, my eyes instantly find him out on the floor of the rink. Max and El hold his hands as they drag him around, all proudly displaying their delight.
âHe did a lot of fucked up shit to me Robs.â I sigh, knowing that no matter how much I want to forgive him, Iâll most likely take my hatred to the grave. âThey all did.â
The girl follows my lead and releases her own sigh, reaching across the countertop to take my hands in herâs. Thumbs gently stroking the backs of my palms.
âI know, Iâm not going to excuse his behavior. He was a complete asshole, even when I first met him, I thought he was an asshole but he proved me wrong. Trust me, I never thought Iâd be over here vouching for Steve Harrington of all people.â Robinâs gaze never leaves mine as she speaks, asserting just how much she truly means the words sheâs saying. âJust maybe try to let go of that grudge youâre holding, I reckon you two would actually make pretty good friends.â
***
Regardless of how much I tossed and turned, Robinâs words kept me awake for hours. Unable to sleep and with no sign of tiring myself out anytime soon, I decided to do the next best thing. Hence why I am now sitting on one of the many docks stretching out into the depths of Lovers Lake. Joint in hand as I try to process all the emotions I had managed to bury deep within me for so long.
The joint does nothing to soothe my shaking body, though Iâm unsure of whether itâs from the frosty fall air or the recent events that seem to have dredged up everything in my past that I had tried to forget, either way, I wrap my fur coat tighter around myself as a weak attempt to ease the shaking. God, if only Dustin hadnât gone and befriended the one person that caused me so much pain.
âOh sorry, I didnât realize anybody would be here.â The voice from behind catches me by surprise, not expecting anybody else to be down here at two am. Glancing over my shoulder, I canât help but laugh at the worldâs cruel sense of humor as the person racing through my mind stands only mere feet away. âWait, are you crying?â
Raising a trembling hand to my face, I feel the dampness of my cheeks, clearly too high to discern that I had in fact been crying. The fact causing me to laugh once more and Steveâs face floods with one of worry, hesitantly trudging towards me and taking a seat beside me, swinging his feet over the side of the dock in the same manner as mine.
âAre you okay?â Steve asks, genuinely seeming to care about the reason for my tears, tone soft with no evidence of an ulterior motive.
âNo.â I admit, offering him a weak smile whilst quickly wiping the tears away that roll down my face. âNo, Iâm not okay and I havenât been for such a long time and I donât even know why Iâm telling you this because itâs all your fault.â
Steveâs mouth opens to speak and yet no words come out. Guilt scrawled across his face as he attempts to come up with the words to comfort me. Once again, I canât help but laugh at the humorous nature of the situation. Iâve never opened up to anybody about how Iâm truly feeling, hell, even my therapist doesnât know the half of it but who feels comfortable enough to voice their darkest thoughts to a complete stranger in a very clinical setting? Iâm going to blame the joint for my willingness to open up to the one person who Iâd rather never speak to again.
âItâs probably really shitty of me and you probably donât want to hear it but I am so sorry Y/N. Truly, I canât even begin to describe how sorry I am.â Steve tells me, voice shaking and almost catching in his throat, however, he never once looks away from me. Forcing himself to own up to what he did. âDo you want to talk about it?â
Taking a drag of the joint, we remain in silence for a few moments, the only sounds to be heard are that of my repeated sniffles. Itâs almost comforting in a way that the boy doesnât speak, not rushing me nor pressuring me to accept his apology.Â
âItâs funny you know, I thought I wouldâve moved on from it by now. I thought that as soon as I graduated I wouldâve been able to forget everything that you and your friends did to me and leave it all in the past.â I state, not even knowing where to start. I never expected to be in this position, never thought Iâd get the chance to confront the monsters from my childhood but as he sits before me, he doesnât seem to be much of a monster. âYou and Carol and Tommy, you guys destroyed me. You hated me so much that I began to hate myself and Iâve never recovered from that.â
Steve lets out a sharp exhale, causing me to look over at him and what I see shocks me deeply. Although heâs trying his best to hide it, I donât miss the tears that fall slowly down his cheeks. Guilt consuming him as he comes to terms with his actions and the direct consequences they had as a result.
âI almost killed myself, Steve.â
My words hit him like a knife to the chest and his head is snapping to face me so fast, I fear he may have given himself whiplash. Mouth slightly open in shock as he processes what I just confessed.
âYou, you wh-â
âYouâre not to blame for that. I could never blame you for that.â I whisper, feeling lighter as I open myself up more and more for the very first time.
âHow, how did-â Steve stops himself before he speaks, this time itâs him thatâs wiping away tears. âWhat happened?â
I know Steve is questioning whether itâs appropriate to ask. Unsure of whether Iâm willing to talk about the most traumatic most of my life thus far, especially with him. With nerves coursing through my veins, I shakily offer him the joint, he accepts with a small smile, slowly taking a long drag, allowing the weed to flood through his body.
âJunior year. I think Iâd been planning it for a while, or at least thinking about it. That day, I think you mustâve been at a basketball game or something, Carol and Tommy they-â I sob hysterically, feeling so much shame as I explain everything to him. âThey cornered me in an alley as I was walking home. It was just the usual insults, but when I didnât react they got angry. I donât really remember it all, I think Iâve tried to black it out but I woke up unconscious in that alley, and I just remember feeling so at peace when I laid there.
So I went home, ran straight up to my room because I didnât want anybody to see me. As soon as I looked in the mirror, I just felt disgusting. My eye was all swollen and my face was just covered in bruises and scratches. Not that I felt beautiful before, but I felt hideous.Â
Iâd been hoarding my pills for weeks at that point and I just began to take them. Handfuls at a time, I think I got about halfway through my stockpile before my mom walked in. She was screaming and crying and I couldnât do anything, I just passed out.â
âFuck.â Steve whispers, trying to suppress his own sniffles.
âI was in the hospital for about a week, apparently they pumped my stomach and I only have very minor damage to my internal organs. I had to practically beg them not to take me to the psych ward though.â I chuckle at the memory, pleading with the doctors that I was fine and it was all just a mistake, even though that couldnât have been further from the truth.
âI had no idea that Carol and Tommy did that to you.â Steve admits, dropping the joint into the lake as he clenches his fists tightly at the thought of what took place in that alleyway. âI donât expect you to forgive me, I could spend my life apologizing to you and it still wouldnât be enough.â
Iâve never seen Steve so emotional before, candidly breaking down in the most vulnerable way as he allows his sobs to be released. Face flushed scarlet and throat raw from how much he is wailing. I thought I would feel better if I made him feel the same as he made me feel. If I made him cry so hard that he thought he would never feel happiness again. However, seeing him in this state doesnât even make me the tiniest bit happier. It doesnât bring me an ounce of joy to see the boy this way no matter how much I thought I would.
In all honesty, it hurts more so knowing that my words are the cause of the pain and turmoil that Steve is in right now. As much as I had built up such a cold and callous exterior trying desperately to protect myself from the harshness of this world, I know deep down that internally, Iâm nothing like I portray myself to be.
Once he gains his composure, Steve manages to speak through deep breaths, âDo you know whatâs funny?â
His question throws me off guard, tilting my head and raising a brow, alerting him of my piqued interest.
âIâve also tried to block out most of high school. I didnât even recognise you today and couldnât understand why you were acting the way you were. Which I now realize makes me sound like even more of a dickhead.â He laughs quietly, awkwardly scratching the back of his neck to relieve the tension within him. âAs soon as I got home, I spent hours, staring at your pictures in the yearbook, remembering everything that we put you through. Iâve never felt more guilty about something in my life and I felt disgusted with myself that I would treat such a beautiful person as though they were anything but.â
âYouâre just saying that.â I retort, not wanting to believe that he would spend so long staring at the photos of me that I hated so much. Not only that but not wanting to believe he could find such photos of me to be beautiful.
âI mean it! I was a stupid, pathetic little boy that just wanted to prove myself to the people that I thought were cool. I never thought about the effect my actions were having on people and now that high schoolâs over, none of that popularity shit matters.â He states, wishing that he could take back all of the cruel things he did to his peers. âNone of it matters. Iâm a fucking loser now. I work at an ice cream store in the mall where I have to wear a stupid sailorâs outfit, I have no college prospects, no girlfriend and I hang out with a bunch of sixteen year olds in my spare time. All that high school shit, it means nothing now.â
âYouâre not a loser Steve Harrington.â I giggle, nudging his shoulder gently with my own. âYouâve just made some very poor decisions that are now biting you on the ass.â
âHey, why arenât you at college? If the yearbook is anything to go by you were one of the smartest people in our grade.â
I try not to feel upset by the boyâs question, knowing he means no harm. However, I also know that as much as Steve has made poor decisions, so have I. Decisions that directly affected my path to college and resulted in me working at the roller rink.
âDidnât study those yearbooks well enough clearly.â I joke, believing that if Iâm able to laugh about my situation then perhaps I wonât burst into tears yet again. âLast year I kind of gave up with school. After what happened junior year, I just didnât see the point in trying anymore. Started skipping classes and when I was there I was too high to learn anything. My grades dropped and so did my chances at college.â
âI really fucked things up for you didnât I?â Steve asks, tone suggesting itâs more of a statement rather than I question.
âThe roller rink isnât so bad, I mean I get to skate for free and the pay is pretty good.âÂ
I can tell he doesnât quite believe me, he knows Iâm bothered about not going to college, despite this, he doesnât push me. Doesnât force me to admit the truth. For that, Iâm thankful.
Casting my gaze over the lake, the first light of the sun shines bright through the treeline. A warm amber glow, illuminating the still water beneath my feet. Birds wake from their slumber and their faint chirps echo across the lake. Thereâs something so peaceful within this moment and for the first time in years I feel as though a weight has been lifted from my chest. One that I was unaware had been weighing me down.
âI should probably be getting home before my parents wake up. Really donât need to be giving my parents another reason to worry about me.â I state, steadily rising to my feet, the warmth instantly escaping my body as the sharp breeze nips at the full length of my body.
âYeah, I should get back too, I should at least try to get some sleep before work.â Steve comments, walking in step with me along the dock.
We walk in silence, the sound of the dark oak creaking beneath our feet. A solemn cloud follows us as we head back to reality, most likely never to speak of this night again. Neither one of us wanting to reflect on the distress we shared at Lovers Lake.
âI think maybe people are right about you.â I declare upon reaching my truck, much to the shock of the boy standing opposite.
âWhat?â He asks, in disbelief at the confession I had just made.
âI think that maybe you are a good guy.âÂ
***
âHave you taken your pills today?â My mom checks, shaking the little orange pill bottle on my desk as though she can feel if it is lighter than yesterday.
âOf course I have.â I mumble, dragging my hands across my face, exhausted from the late night I had endured.
âIâm only checking sweetheart, you know I worry about you.â She wraps her arms around me from behind as she speaks, squeezing me tightly, more so for her own comfort rather than mine. âNow, your dad and I are leaving town for a few nights. He has a meeting up in Indianapolis, but if you donât feel like youâre well enough to stay here alone with Dusty then I am more than happy to stay behind.â
âMom, Iâll be fine, honestly.â I whine, feeling guilty that she dwells on my wellbeing so much. âI promise.â
I love my parents. I really and truly do, more than anything on this earth. Nevertheless our relationship has been somewhat strained since the events of sophomore year. My mom treats me like Iâm made of glass, one wrong move and Iâll shatter into one million tiny pieces. My dad is arguably even worse, refusing to even acknowledge what took place nor speaking on the topic of my mental stability. Dustin tries his hardest to make things feel normal, but thereâs only so much a sixteen year old can do to try and hold their family in place.
Not only do I feel guilty about the way I make my parents stress about me, but I also feel guilty for the way this has affected Dustin. Our parents are often so preoccupied with ensuring that Iâm well and doing fine, that they often forget about their other child. Sometimes, it feels as if Iâm the only person that notices Dustinâs presence. Or lack thereof, what with him spending more and more time with his friends and Steve. Frequently returning home stressed, anxious or just generally in a bad mood and in all honesty his behavior has started to concern me. Though it appears that I may have been the only one to notice.
âI need a ride to Starcourt.â As if on cue, Dustinâs head pops around my bedroom door, demanding yet another ride.
âYour manners really could use some work kid.â I tell him, to which he shrugs and I find myself grabbing my keys with less reluctance than I had the previous day.
The drive to the mall passes by a lot faster than it had on the uncomfortable journey the day before. Filled with Dustin singing at the top of his lungs to whatever cheesy pop song was playing on the radio and me secretly hoping deep down that Iâll catch a glimpse, or even better a chance to talk to Steve again.Â
My former bully had somehow managed to penetrate my thoughts ever since we departed ways in the early hours of the morning. Consumed by the thoughts of where we go from here, was our emotional conversation reserved for that one night only or would we develop a casual friendship? As much as I was pretending like nothing had happened, I was itching to know how Steve was feeling.
Before I know it, Iâm turning off the ignition and the boy in question is directly in my eyeline. Lazily smoking a cigarette against the side of the entrance to the mall. Presumably waiting for my little brother in order to escort him into Scoops Ahoy, so he is unable to cause any mischief on his way to the store.
Steve spots my truck almost instantly and I could be mistaken, but it certainly looks as though his eyes lock on mine straight away. I hardly register Dustin jumping out of the truck as Steve flicks the cigarette butt to the ground, strolling towards the truck and before I can stop myself Iâm climbing out of my seat. Much to the surprise of my brother.
âHi.â Steve mumbles nervously, a soft rose tint settling upon his cheeks.
âHi.â I reply just as awkwardly, my face no doubt the same shade as his.
âOkay, this is weird. Iâm just gonna-â Dustin uncomfortably points towards the main doors before hurrying off in that direction, eager to get away from whatever is happening between Steve and I.
âSo about last night-â
âI want to forgive you.â
We both speak at the same time, sharing anxious smiles as neither of us dares to make the first move. Though after taking a deep breath, I find myself being the one to break the tension.
âI want to forgive you. I meant what I said, that I think youâre a good guy.â I state, timidly picking at my fingers as I try to look anywhere other than the dark haired boy. âI donât think Iâm fully there yet, I think Iâve still got some shit that I need to work through but Iâd like to. You donât deserve to be hated for the stuff you did as a kid, especially when I can see how hard youâre trying to be a better person.â
Iâve barely finished speaking when Steveâs arms are wrapped firmly around my shoulders, pulling me into a firm hug and for whatever strange reason, I hug him back. Cautiously sliding my arms around his toned waist and allowing my head to rest against his chest. Inhaling his scent deeply, an intense sandalwood with a hint of cigarette smoke and despite all of my logic within me screaming to snap out of it, I canât resist his musk, finding myself strongly intoxicated by it.
âI swear you wonât regret it, Iâm going to spend every day making it up to you for as long as I live.â Steve mutters into my hair, gently pulling away from me once he stops speaking.
âHow about we start with a free ice cream and go from there?â I ask cheekily, causing him to beam cheerfully at me with a swift nod.
âIâm sure I can manage that.â He laughs, before we make our way into the mall, joining the group of kids inside Scoops Ahoy, much to Dustinâs disapproval at my presence.
Sliding into the booth besides Max, Iâm acutely aware of the way the group huddles closer together, voices lowering to no louder than a whisper. Even Eddie Munson, whoâs voice can usually be heard for miles, speaks in a hushed voice.Â
Narrowing my eyes, I try to pick up any of the conversation, only able to hear certain words here and there. Their side of the table is scattered with papers and Iâm able to make out what looks like a map of Starcourt. Although I am completely baffled, if not slightly annoyed at their secrecy, I can only assume that this has something to do with one of their Dungeons and Dragons campaigns.
âYou and Harrington made up then?â Robin inquires when I join her at the counter, resting my elbows against the cool marble.
âKind of. I donât know, we talked for hours last night and as much as I want to hate him, I just canât.â
Robin can sense how difficult it is for me to acknowledge my willingness to believe her friend has changed. She knows that itâll be a long road going forward, and yet sheâs unable to hide her pride. Not only at her friend for accepting the suffering he caused, but also at my openness to trust that somehow Steve isnât such a bad guy.
âYeah Iâve heard, he hasnât been able to talk about anything else other than the heart to heart you two shared last night. Iâm really proud of him, heâs come a long way.â Robin explains, busying herself with preparing a milkshake that she smoothly slides my way with a knowing wink. âConsider that on me, you deserve it, Iâm not sure I wouldâve been able to make my childhood bullies confront their own actions the same way you did. It took real guts.â
âAs much as I would like to take credit, I think the weed was probably more to thank.â I disclose, taking a short sip of the strawberry treat in front of me. âI have a tendency to get real honest when Iâm high.â
âDonât I know it sweetheart.â Eddie chortles, dipping his finger into the cream atop my milkshake and licking it off dramatically.
âEw get your own!â I groan, pulling the glass away from the metalhead as he tries to swipe some more cream.
âWhereâs Harrington anyway? Those little dickheads are going over our game plan and apparently he is a pivotal part in their plan and is needed right away.â The boy asks Robin, eyes scanning the room as if Steve is hiding in one of the red leather booths.
âHeâs in the back, apparently he wanted to make Y/Nâs ice cream extra special.â Robin speaks, nodding her head towards the staff only door.
âWhatâs he gonna do? Jizz on it?â The moment the words leave his mouth, Robin and I are both groaning, disgusted by the question.
âDo you have to be so repulsive all of the time?â I ask, hearing the squeak of a door followed by rapid footsteps.
âI didnât hear any complaints when my mouth was between your legs!â
âThatâs because you canât speak whilst you're down there!â
So caught up in our current argument, I fail to spot Steve uneasily standing at the other side of the counter. A large scoop of cherry ice cream sits in a tub before him, decorated elegantly with a large helping of sprinkles, pieces of chocolate and a singular maraschino cherry placed neatly on top.
âIs this a bad time?â He questions hesitantly, carefully observing Eddie and I, a twinge of what I can only perceive as jealousy flashes across his face. However, it disappears before I analyze it any further.Â
âNo, no. Not a bad time at all.â The words tumble out of my mouth with haste, Robin struggling to hide the amused expression on her face as she witnesses the tension between us.
âOne scoop of cherry swirl, with all the toppings. On me, as promised.â He announces gleefully, pushing it towards me with a small plastic spoon, which I am more than happy to accept.
âThank you.â
I delicately place the cherry between my lips, pulling it from the stem which I then twist between my fingers absentmindedly. Though, I feel the warmth rising to my cheeks as I catch sight of the three of them staring at me, eyes trained on my mouth.
âI donât think Iâve ever met someone that can make eating fruit look so hot.â Eddie comments, pupils blown out causing me to grimace.
âHey Steve! We need to go over the plan!â Lucasâ yell, alleviates the awkwardness of the current situation.
âAlways the goddamn babysitter.â He mutters under his breath, offering me an apologetic glance before meandering over to the group of youths, Eddie Munson in tow.
âNow I donât want to alarm you, especially not with how fresh your reconciliation with Steve is but I think he may have a teeny tiny crush on you.â Robin whispers, moving her head closer to mine in an effort to remain inconspicuous.Â
âWhat? No, no, heâs just being nice is all.â I shut down her theory quickly, fixating my gaze on the melting ice cream so as not to reveal the bashfulness slapped across my face. âAnyway, whatâs that all about? New campaign? I didnât think D&D would be the sort of things you and Steve would be into.â
âI see what youâre doing and Iâm just going to go along with it.â Robin says, referencing the fact that I am so obviously trying to change the subject. She turns away from, as she continues to speak, occupying herself with refilling the toppings station. âItâs just a stupid thing theyâre planning, some big quest. Steve and I just kind of got roped into it I guess, but itâs not so bad.â
Her response is vague and leaves me with more questions than I previously had, not entirely believing that her and Steve could possibly be lame enough to enjoy the fictional realms of Dungeons and Dragons. I let it slide though, thankful that she didnât push me to discuss the possibility of Steve Harrington liking me and so I return the favor. Accepting that there is a very probable, most likely embarrassing reason that theyâre not telling me about their secret activities.
***
Most young people would kill for the opportunity to have an empty house. Itâs the time to throw wild parties or hook up with a guy without having to sneak around or risk being caught by nose parents. Or even worse, younger siblings. Had I been a normal eighteen year old girl, there was no doubt in my mind that I would be doing exactly that.
Instead, Iâm lounging on my bed, recapping the events of the past couple of days to my diary as I try to fill the deafening sound of silence with the beautiful vocals of Stevie Nicks. Iâd never truly realized just how eerie and isolating our home could be without the usual noise of my family. No football game broadcast on the television, or the clattering of pots in the kitchen, not even the sound of Dustin screaming down his walkie talkie. It fills me with a sense of unease that I canât seem to shake.
Just as Iâm about to try and fill the void by running the bathtub to take a relaxing soak, I become distracted by the high pitched shrill of the phone on my bedside table. Curiosity engulfing me and I wonder who could be calling me at such a late hour. Better yet, who has got the phone number that is usually only reserved for Eddie or my parents.
âY/N, I donât have much time so you have to listen to me carefully!â Steveâs voice is full of panic as he hurriedly speaks down the line, my body instantly going stiff at the urgency of his tone. âIâm so sorry and I shouldâve told you sooner but Dustin was adamant that he wanted to keep you out of it.â
âOut of what? Whatâs going on? Is Dustin okay?âÂ
âI canât explain other the phone, youâd never believe me anyway, but we really need your help. Just get to the Starcourt as soon as you can, please. I wouldnât ask if it werenât important.â Steve spits out, the uproar of what sounds like wind almost drowning him out. âAnd bring a weapon!â
With that, the line cuts off. I remain still, nostrils flared as my hands continue to hold on to the phone, knuckles white. My heart feels like it is about to burst violently out of my chest and I struggle to gain my composure with such short, rapid breaths.
âOkay, itâs gonna be okay. Iâm sure itâs nothing, they probably just need a ride again.â I mumble to myself, grabbing my keys and racing down the stairs. âYeah, that makes total sense, I mean a girl should always carry a weapon when alone at night.â
Hands trembling furiously, I stand opposite my dadâs rifle cabinet, staring at the gun through the sheer glass. Questioning whether Iâm truly about to take his property. Iâve only shot a gun once, I was twelve and my dad took me hunting. It didnât become a regular thing, my dad refusing to take me again after I burst into tears upon shooting a deer.
Despite the fear racing through my body, before I can even think about what Iâm doing, Iâm grabbing a vase off one of the shelves. Using all of my strength to smash it straight into the glass, thousands of miniscule shards flying everywhere. Flinching as it hits me with force, ripping open small wounds across the exposed skin of my face, neck and arms. Though I only really register the injuries on my hand, the flesh of my knuckles shredded brutally from where my hand made contact with the pane. Vase doing little to take the extent of the collision.
A shaky exhale escapes my throat, grabbing the rifle despite my second thoughts. Sticky, crimson liquid dripping against the heel of the gun, staining the burnt mahogany.Â
âSorry dad.â I speak quietly, frowning slightly upon seeing the mess of broken glass across the lounge.
In my hurry to leave, I donât even bother to lock the doors of our house. Focusing on nothing other than getting to Starcourt as quickly as I physically can. Throwing the gun carelessly on my passenger seat, Iâm in autopilot as I start the engine. My driving being much more reckless than usual, ignoring speed limits and stop signs in my race to get to the mall.Â
The closer I get, the more I start to question what type of danger I am just about to get myself into. Sky above the large building an array of violet and sapphire amidst the dark black of the night. Wind whirling harshly around my truck, the closer I get. It feels reminiscent of a tornado, a ruthless storm that holds no mercy.
Arriving in the parking lot, Iâm able to see a singular car parked by the entry doors. Nancy, Jonathan, Will and Lucas scurry around the vehicle, clearly in search of something and donât seem to care at all about the volatile weather that Hawkins is experiencing.
âHey, whatâs going on? Whereâs Dustin?â I shout, rifle in hand as I sprint towards the burgundy car. The group ignoring my arrival and instead climbing into the vehicleâs interior.
Squeezing myself in besides Will and Lucas, itâs only at that moment that they acknowledge me. Faces ranging from confusion, to shock, to anger. Not a single one of them displays any positive emotion at my being there.
âWhat are you doing here?â Jonathan asks, voice raised and tone harsh, wounding me more so than I thought possible.
âWhere the fuck is Dustin?â I spit, solely caring about ensuring the safety of my baby brother. Knowing that if anything happened to him I would never forgive myself. âWhere the fuck is my brother?â
âI donât know, okay Y/N. Heâs with Erica!â Nancy yells, preoccupied with pulling open the glove compartment and rooting around urgently.
âErica? Erica as in your ten year old sister?â I snap, attention diverted towards Lucas who stares at me with worry, afraid of how I am about to react. âWhat the actual fuck?â
âLook I donât know if youâve noticed but weâre kind of in the middle of something and you really shouldnât be here.â Nancy tells me, finally turning herself to look at me from the passenger seat.
Iâve never seen her look so troubled, face free of makeup and stress lines prominent. Sheâs too young to look as agonized as she does, asserting to me that whatever is currently taking place is far beyond what I could have ever imagined. Far more threatening than anything I could dream up.Â
âI think Iâve got it.â Jonathan announces, a chorus of relieved sighs escaping the group.Â
âGet it started then.â Nancy pushes, watching anxiously as Jonathan begins to fiddle with the car wires, hands clammy from the stress of the current circumstances.
âGuys, we could have a problem.â Will mutters, eyes trained out of the window to the otherside of the parking lot.
A car sits ominously, headlights pointing directly towards us. Nancy and Jonathan both curse under their breath, and despite having no knowledge about what is taking place, even I can understand that this is clearly not a good sign. Even worse when the vehicle begins to drive slowly straight at us.
Unaware of my own actions and unable to stop myself, Iâm rounding the car confidently. Standing right in the path of the oncoming vehicle, I raise the rifle, releasing the safety and pointing directly towards what I can assume is the driverâs seat. Struggling to see effectively against the bright beam of the headlights.
My move seems to threaten the driver, the car gaining speed and barrelling at us with no sign of stopping. Despite the fear that has overcome me since receiving Steveâs call, whilst standing in the path of immediate peril, I feel weirdly at ease. Unbothered by the potential risk of death that I am face to face with.Â
âWhat are you doing?â I hear Nancy scream, her voice sounds as though it is miles away when I know in reality she is almost right behind me, tucked away inside the automobile.
Steadying my breath, I squint my eyes in an attempt to better my aim, before releasing the trigger. Having no time to think about the consequences of my actions nor the moral implications of shooting at a living being that formerly plagued my mind, releasing bullet after bullet as the driver steps on the gas. Accelerating at such an extreme pace that I can only fire so much before having to accept my twisted fate.
With the car only mere feet away, I drop the gun, fearing that no matter how well I shoot, there is no winning this fight. Grabbing my head, in a weak attempt to protect myself, I drop to the ground, eyes closed tightly as I prepare to face the impact.Â
Iâve never been a religious person, but the only thoughts flying around my brain are prayers of protecting my family. Prayers of Dustinâs safety as he faces whatever is coming for him. Prayers that my passing is swift and painless. Prayers that this is all over quickly.
And yet, nothing comes.Â
Warily, I open my eyes, removing my hands from my cautiously, only to see none other than Steve Harrington, reeling from the impact of smashing his car straight into the one headed my way. His eyes find mine and my heart stops, the look of sheer relief on his face is indescribable.Â
Rising to my feet, Steveâs hurriedly climbing out of the vehicle and by my side in a second. Face bloodied and bruised, despite that, heâs solely focused on me, scanning over me intently, worriedly taking in all the minor wounds I obtained from shattering the rifle cabinet.
âWhat happened to your hand?â Heâs asking breathlessly, my mind preoccupied with the knowledge that he just put himself in harm's way to save my life.Â
I canât find the words to say anything as I take in the sight of his swollen eye and the stains of dried blood coating the lower half of his face. My mouth opens to speak and no words seem to slip out, mesmerized by Steveâs beauty in spite of his unsightly injuries.
Blaming the adrenaline, I find myself throwing my arms around the boyâs neck, pulling him into me and squeezing tightly. His hands settle on my hips, touch firm, fearing that if he were to let go that I would simply disappear. Absentmindedly, my fingers delicately thread through the strands of dark hair at the nape of his neck. Needing to be close to him.
âYou just saved my life.â
My voice is no louder than a whisper, breath hot against his neck as I nuzzle myself closer to him. Feeling safe and secure in his embrace. Desperately needing the comfort right now, even if it is coming from the most unexpected of places.
âUh guys! We should be getting out of here! Like now!â I hear Robin shout, releasing myself from Steveâs hold to see that not only has Jonathan managed to get their car started but also that Billy Hargrove is now stumbling out of his vehicle and has his sights set on us once again.
Neither of us need to say a word, abandoning my truck in the Starcourt parking lot and speeding away from the mall and ultimately the danger that lies in wait there.Â
***
The Battle of Starcourt resulted in the mall burning to the ground. Dustin and I reunited later that night at Steveâs house, the pair of them, alongside Robin, explained everything to me over a much needed pot of tea. Elâs powers, demogorgons, Russian soldiers and the Mind Flayer. It was certainly a lot to take in and I could only apologize to my brother for not being there for him throughout all of this taking place. Wishing I could have helped him from the start.
Itâs been a struggle adjusting to my daily life for the past couple of days. Dustinâs been staying at the Byersâ household, wanting the comfort of his friends and with a lack of parental presence in our home, the place feels cold. I can understand his decision completely, yet I canât help but feel alone in such a big house.
I spend my nights awake, unable to sleep, and when I do manage to drift off, Iâm plagued by nightmares of that car barreling towards me. My days arenât any better. Alone with my thoughts at the roller rink, dreaming up all of the ways that the events of the night could have gone differently, most resulting in the deaths of either Dustin and I. And if Iâm not at work, I lounge around my home, hopelessly trying to occupy my mind from the swirling images of Starcourt.Â
Steve and I haven't spoke since that night, more so my fault than his. Iâd closed myself off again, become a recluse and struggled to leave the house with the exception of work. I believed that my mind had been playing tricks on me that night when I found myself enamored by his beauty. Or that it was simply the adrenaline and the intensity of the circumstances that I needed his embrace. However, the more I think about it, the more I believe that it was a decision of the heart rather than caused by the stress of the night.
Standing outside the Harrington household, I wonder if I am making a huge mistake. I hadnât intended to come here, only leaving my house to take a brisk walk and yet here I find myself, fist raised in preparation to knock. Though making no effort to do so. In all honesty, I think I just need to talk to somebody about what transpired and Steve is the only person that I can willingly open up to.
âY/N?â The boyâs voice startles me, heâs standing in the doorway dressed in plaid pajama pants and a loose black sweater. The wounds on his face are still prominent, though evidently more healed than the last time I had seen him.
âIâm sorry, I was going for a walk but I guess I just instinctively came here. My house is too quiet and I just really need to talk to somebody.â I confess, staring down at my bandaged hand so as to not make eye contact with Steve.
âYou walked here?â Heâs shocked by my admission, not that Iâm surprised. Living on the other side of town, the walk to his house is easily an hour long, if not more.
âWell my truck kind of went down with the mall.â I laugh softly, though it sounds more forced than I intended.Â
âYou shouldâve called, I wouldâve picked you up.â He tells me, voice gentle as he opens the door for me to enter his home, following me through to the lounge where we collapse onto the couch.
He has a small fire crackling away, the orange embers lighting up the room and subsequently offering a toastiness in comparison to the chilly night air.
âWhatâs going on? Are you?â Thereâs a tenderness to his voice, speaking to me the way you would speak to a timid animal so as not to frighten them. Itâs sweet.
âDo you get nightmares from that night?â I ask shyly, not wanting him to view me as weak for struggling with the things that occurred.
Steve sighs, settling further into the couch as he takes his time figuring out how to say what he wants to get across. Part of him wanting to lie and pretend that everything is fine, the other part of him knowing that he should just be honest and recognize his feelings.
âYeah.â Steve settles on the one word reply, deciding it may be the better option rather than confessing the truth as to what occurs in these nightmares.
âI havenât been sleeping much, everytime I do, all I see is that car. Or Dustinâs lifeless body and itâs horrible. Waking up alone, hyperventilating, nobody there to tell me itâll be okay. I donât know how I can keep going like this.â I admit, daring to look at the boy and noticing the pained expression on his face.
âCan I be honest?â He whispers, words so quiet I almost donât hear them. Nodding nervously, his eyes fall to his lap as he speaks. âEverytime I shut my eyes, I can only think about what wouldâve happened had I not got to you in time.â
âBut you did-â
âYou wouldâve died, you wouldâve died and it wouldâve been my fault because I was the one who asked you to come.â Heâs crying as he talks, recounting that night and what could have been.
âSteve, you did save me. Youâre the entire reason that Iâm sitting here right here now. Youâre a hero Steve Harrington.â I tell him, shuffling closer and taking his hands in mine. To which he brushes his fingers over my bandaged knuckles. âA very stupid, idiotic, reckless hero. But a hero nonetheless.â
âI wouldâve never forgiven myself if Iâd let you die. Fuck, I canât even forgive myself for the way I treated you in school.â He states, gazing over my face and taking in the handful of miniscule cuts scattered across my cheeks from the shattering of the cabinet.
âWould it help if I told you that I forgive you?â I ask, soft smile settled upon my lips.
âAre you sure? I know I hurt you and I donât want you to feel like you have to forgive me because of what happened and-â
âSteve, I forgive you.â I cut him off, squeezing his hands as I do so. âNot just because of what happened. I mean Iâd probably be a shitty person if I didnât forgive you when you deliberately put your own life at risk to save mine but, youâre a good person. I can see that now. Youâre a really good person with a really good heart and in all honesty I think-â
My heart jumps to my throat as I realize what Iâm about to confess. Questioning how I even got myself into this mess. If you told sixteen year old me that only two years later I would be sitting on the couch of my nemesis about to own up to the feelings that I may or may not have for him, she wouldâve laughed in your face.
âCan I kiss you?â Steve asks softly, before I am able to finish what Iâm saying, thankful that I no longer have to find the words.
âIâd really like that.â
The boyâs hand is gentle as he cups my cheek, apprehensively bringing his face to my own and brushing his lips lightly over mine. Heâs cautious at first, testing out the waters to ensure that I am truly comfortable. Though, when I push myself closer, fisting his sweater in my hands, he exerts the passion that he had been holding black. Lips moving in sync with mine and bringing his free hand to caress my waist delicately. As the heat grows and any nerves wash away, he effortlessly slides his tongue into my mouth. Shy whimper escaping my mouth as he does so.
When he pulls away, I donât miss the string of saliva that connects our lips to one another and canât help but smile. Heart fluttering as Steveâs eyes focus on me adoringly.
âI guess all the rumors were right.â I tease as he tucks a loose strand of hair behind my ear, tilting his head slightly at my words. âYou really are good at that, King Steve.â
âOh ha ha.â He replies sarcastically, pulling me into his side and allowing me to rest my head on his chest. Listening intently to the steady beat of his heart.
âCan I stay here tonight? I canât face another night alone.â I ask, tracing circles across his stomach, his hands stroking my hair lightly.
âIâd like that.â
Whilst I lay in the arms of Steve Harrington, I couldnât help but feel as though things were starting to look up for me. Sure, it didnât happen in the way that I was expecting or perhaps wanted. I certainly could have done without the monsters but right now, I finally felt at peace. Even if it was only for a little bit.
#steve harrington fluff#steve harrington imagine#steve harrington#steve harrington x reader#steve harrington fanfiction#Steve Harrington fic#Steve Harrington x female!reader#Steve Harrington x henderson!reader#robin buckley#dustin henderson#stranger things fic#stranger things au#stranger things imagine#stranger things fanfiction#stranger things
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Eddie doing a deal with Steve at that picnic table after school. Eddieâs on his second senior year and pissed off about it. Heâs trying to be cordial to Harrington, but he keeps remembering how the basketball team messes with his Hellfire kids.
So he up charges him, gets a little petty revenge; heâs sure Harrington can afford it anyway. The extra money can go toward Eddieâs T payments.
Something rustles in the woods and Harrington freezes, listening. Some kind of wet, furless animal jumps out of the trees in a blur.
Before Eddie can react, Harrington grabs his hand and pulls him up, heading to the closest sanctuary, the high school. Eddieâs freaking out. They run into the building, and Harrington pulls them into the janitors closet. He lunges to the back, reaching for a mop, but Eddie hears a wet skittering in the hallway and slams the door shut. Harrington whips around at the noise and the sudden darkness. Eddie holds his breath until the creature passes.
âWhat the fuck is out there?â He hisses at Harrington. The closet is cramped and the floor is littered with cleaning supplies. They're right up on top of one another in the small space. âThis is crazy, this is so fucking crazyââ
âCalm down!â Harrington hisses back, closer than he expects, breath brushing against Eddie's cheek.
âCalm? Why are you calm, what's wrong with you?â Eddie's heart is pounding so hard he thinks it might burst out of his chest. He can't breathe. âWe just almost got attacked by some fuckin' thing!â He flutters his hands to emphasize 'thing' though Steve probably can't see it in the dark. He smacks a shelf.
âI've seen something like it before, it's some kind of demogorgon.â Harrington says. Eddie splutters. The king of Hawkins High just made a DnD reference.
âHow do youâthat is not a demogorgon, Harrington! Demogorgons don't exist and even if they did, they don't look like that!â
âHey, you asked and I answered. And my name is Steve.â He reaches around Eddie and tries the door handle. He's practically hugging him.
Steve swears and flicks on the light switch, illuminating the closet. âIt's stuck.â
Eddie can see Steve's face properly now in all its glory. The overhead bulb gleams off Steve's stupidly long eyelashes. He almost wants to turn the light back off. His breathing is still restricted.
âGuess we're trapped in here until somebody comes by.â Steve says.
Eddie balks at the thought of being stuck with Steve in close quarters for so long. âNo we're not, just gimme a second.â
Eddie shoves a hand up under his Dio shirt so he can pull his bindings a little away from his chest.
âWhat are you doing?â Steve sounds alarmed. His eyes are wide.
âDon't get excited,â Eddie winks because apparently he has a death wish, âjust need to breathe. Get me a flathead screwdriver. The door opens inward.â
Steve snaps his fingers and points at him, âRight, the hinges!â He turns around to rustle through the shelves, which Eddie, uh, doesnât mind. Goddamn.
He faces Eddie again with a flathead in his hands and a triumphant look. Eddie grabs it with a âthanksâ and goes to work prying pins out of the hinges. He can feel Steve watching him. Eddie gets the door loose and shoves it open, catching it so it doesnât make noise.
Steve stalks past him wielding a mop like a weapon.
âWhere are you going?â Eddie stage whispers.
Steve looks over his shoulder at Eddie, hair artfully falling out of place. âIâve gotta find that thing, Iâm not gonna let it roam the school.â
Eddie looks at Steve, looks back at the exit, looks down at the tile floor.
âShit.â
He follows.
#trans eddie munson#eddie munson#steddie#steve harrington#ftm eddie munson#steve x eddie#monster hunter steve harrington#set vaguely after the stancy alleyway breakup#steddie ficlet#autistic eddie munson
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sunflower danielle marsh
synopsis; the hero's spidey-senses have been tingling all over her body whenever the sunflower girl walks into the room, however, the problem is that she's a sunflower while Y/n feels like a sun that comes and goes /content; spiderwoman!reader, spider verse au, fluff, teenie tiny bit of angst at one point, mentions; violence, firearms and death but all in a light manner /wc; 8.9k
songs; sunflower - post malone, love 119 - riize, out of me head - steve lacy
a/n; my spiderman obsession has been hitting a bit harder lately so...also im thinking miles morales suit for this one
âThereâs a fight happening at the park.â
âI am at the park?â
âArenât your spidey senses tingling?â
âShut upâohâŚI might have been preoccupied with theââ
âWith the tingles Dani causes, yeah, yeah, itâs by the fountain.â
âOh my god, look itâs a squirrel!â The girl squealed, shaking the latter beside her who pried away the hands that gripped onto her arm with a deep sigh.Â
âYeah, I can see,â Haerin grumbled while fixing her shirt.
âY/n lookââ Her joyous voice came to a halt as she turned around and the said girl was no longer there where she had been. âWhereâs Y/n?â This made Haerin turn away from the tree they had stopped by and her eyes scanned the park.
The sun was shining brightly with nothing but a gentle breeze to cool everyone off together with the shadows.Â
Danielle walked past Haerin with a frown, thinking she had lost her other friend among the people walking in the park. âItâs not the first time she just disappears.â The latter mumbled and followed after the girl who hummed and took out her phone.Â
âI will call herâWait here just in case.â She looked back and received a simple nod from Haerin who stopped under the shadow of a tree. Her eyes scanned the area before watching the other girl who walked completely engrossed in her phone.
Danielle squinted her eyes, trying to fix her brightness and cover her phone to see anything all while trying to head for the nearest shadow to make life easier for herself.
The second she got it right she looked for the girlâs number which wasnât hard to find; all while she wondered how Y/n always managed to disappear or get lost so easily.
She was confused, to say the least, seeing how the girl would avoid her at times or trail behind them. Quite often Danielle made sure all of her friends felt included, but as she did so she rarely succeeded in including herself as the centre of Y/nâs attention. However, the few times that she wasâ
âWatch out!â She looked up from her phone with wide eyes just as she had managed to press call. The sound of the fountain she was near was just a mere background noise that was drowned out when she finally paid attention to her surroundings; realising that a lot more than the chirping of birds and water was sounding around her.Â
Danielle yelped at the body that collided with her, shutting her eyes, the phone that was in her hand no longer there. There was a brief swoosh of air, her feet no longer on the ground, but she could feel herself falling until she collided with the same body that grunted right under her. The impact of her fall was muffled only making her breath hitch.
She raised her head from the body whose heart was about to thump right out of its ribcageâstill feeling it thrash under her palms, something was buzzing tooâDanielle went mute at the person right under her. It was none other than the local hero.Â
âHereâs your phone; are you alright?â She took her phoneâthe call went to voicemail and that faint buzzing stoppedâtrying to find words but it was close to impossible as her own heart was pounding from the adrenaline the action had caused her.Â
âYeah, Iâm alright.â She managed to get out, wanting to find the next words to thank her hero correctly, but she yelped once again. âNot the headââ Her body was flipped over, shutting her eyes tightly at the slight impact of her back against hitting the grass, however, her head was well protected by a hand.Â
This time she opened her eyes and flinched. âOh come on!â The hero exclaimed at the object that had been thrown their way, hitting the Spideyâs back.
âFive, sixââ Danielleâs mouth was left agape at the hero who did a front handspring over her, âpick up sticks,â and then swungâwith webâwhat was a thick branch, âseven, eight, lay them straight,â before launching it at the group of guys who got hit like bowling pins, some trying to scramble away.
âWhy are you always daydreaming!?â Haerin was the one pulling the girl up from the grass and away from the fight scene.
âIâm saved as Y/n/n with a red heart in Daniâs contacts.â
âGreat Y/n, but youâre literally in the middle of a fight.â
âSheâs so pretty!â
âYouâre hopeless.â
âI will be anything for her!â
âIt all happened so quickly too!â Danielle exclaimed as they walked through the hallways of the college. The girl was so engulfed in the story she told that nothing else would reach her ears.
âI didnât even notice the fight and suddenly thereâs a commotion happening and one of them was about to crash right into meâone second Iâm on the ground, the next Iâm lifted from itâSpidey swoops in and saves me!â
âWe believe you.â Hanni groaned as the girl wouldnât stop talking about it.
âThatâs not the point,â Danielle whined as she looked over her friends, her eyes momentarily landed on the girl who was trailing after them in the back, Y/n. She sighed and shook her head, looking back at Minji and Hanni who were closest to her.
âThe point is that I didnât even get to thank her.â She reasoned, feeling grateful, but somewhat bummed out that she couldnât even thank the hero who saved her a few days ago.
âPlus Haerin and Y/n were there at the park with me so I have my proofââ She turned around and stretched out her arms to point at Haerin and Y/n, but ultimately stopped which made the whole group stop. âWhereâs Y/n?â Her eyes left the spot where Y/n would be and they moved to Haerin who was about to open her mouth but was cut off by Minji.
âShe always disappears into thin air.â
âThe same thing happened yesterday when that fight happened,â Danielle mumbled and turned on her heels as they continued to walk through the hallway.
âThe cat wouldnât stop clawing at my arm.âÂ
Sakura threw a glance at the girl, tilting her head to try and have her at the correct angle as the Y/n hung upside down from the ceiling of their dorm. The curtains were down, the room was dim, lit up by Sakuraâs setup who was busy fixing up the small tears in the spider suit.Â
âAlso!â She clicked her tongue at how loud Y/n got all of a sudden. The older girl hummed and flinched again at the loud clatter, looking over to her side to see the girl standing up from the floor and fixing the bin that got tipped over after the fall. âIâm quite sure Haerin knowsâŚâ Y/n finished and chewed on her nails as she walked to Sakura and looked over her shoulder.Â
âKnows what?â
âMy secret.â Y/n whispered right into her friend's ear which made Sakura press it against her shoulder at how it tickled.Â
âShe doesnât.âÂ
The younger girl stood up straight and stretched her back, âIâm telling you, she knows more than she lets on.â She sighed at the feeling and looked back down at her roommate who turned in the swivel chair. The black with red details suit back to its normal self in her hands.
âYou should get some rest,â Sakura suggested, dismissing Y/nâs suspicions while handing the suit over to her.Â
The girl hummed. âI asked Yunjin to grab me a coffee on her way back, Iâm heading to the public library to print some stickers. I made new designs.â Y/n explained as she moved behind the divider to slip the suit on and have it under her clothes.
âWhy not the schoolâs library?â Sakura questioned as she turned back to her computer.Â
âBelieve it or not; the librarian has given me a ban.âÂ
âI believe it whole-heartedly.â She rolled her eyes as Y/n blew a raspberry and grabbed her backpack just as there was a knock on the door.
The girl paid no mind to anyone around her as headphones rested atop her ears, printing the stickers she would leave around the city when swinging around.
It was calm and she hadnât bothered to return to her friends after disappearing to help out someoneâs cat. It wasnât like she didnât want to hang out with them, the problem was Danielle.Â
WellâŚMaybe Y/n was the problem because she forgot how to act correctly whenever Danielle smiled at her and just did anything around her. She couldnât help but get lost in her every single time and it was difficult to keep up with anything else going on around her.
It had become a little problem when danger arose and the star of Y/nâs orbit was around.Â
The girl quickly turned around, grabbing hold of the hand that was about to touch her shoulder and her eyes widened. With Danielleâs wrist still in her hold she pulled down her headphones with her free hand before quickly letting go of the latterâs hand.Â
âSorry!â She exclaimed and cowered after as it made people turn their heads in the silent library.
Y/n quickly reached for her phone to pause the music which was sounding through the headphones and looked at the two girls in front of her; Danielle let out a breathless chuckle.
âI tried to call your name at first.â Y/n pursed her lips, feeling how her face felt a lot hotter, not just her face, but her whole body. Was it the suit underneath? No because it never got hot in it.
The sound of the stickers printing was what truly brought her back and her eyes landed on Haerin who was right behind Danielle.
Their eyes met and Y/n felt a twinge of paranoia; both girls squinted their eyes at each other and Y/nâs gaze got a bit more intense almost challenging before Haerin frowned.Â
âOh no, does she know?â
âAnywayââ Danielle was the one to break the silence and intenseâŚstaredown? She had no clue what it was, but it eased as Y/nâs eyes landed on her, making her smile a little bigger than she usually did. âYou disappeared earlier.â
âUhm, my roommateâI took her notes by accident instead of my own.â Y/n came up with a quick lie, nodding along to her words to make them seem more believable.Â
âOh okay, so we were talking earlier and I thought it would be better to ask in person,â Danielle continued to talk to the girl whose eyes were glimmering. Y/n was like water in the latterâs presence; glimmering anytime the sun appeared and warming right up for the whole day.Â
âYou should probably be listening, but her hair then her eyes, thereâs just something about her⌠Wow, Sakura would be disappointed at this behaviour.â
âUh-huh.â Y/n nodded, trying her best to snap back into listening to the girl in front of her.
âWeâre heading out on Saturday to this cafĂŠ and then we thought of heading to the moviesââ
This time Y/n snapped out of it at the shift around her that made it tingle at the back of her head, the hairs on her neck standing up. As if on queue her phone started buzzing; Sakura.Â
The loud sirens that were approaching made the two girls look behind them and by the time they looked back at Y/n all that was left were a few stickers that were still being printed.Â
âThereâs a car chase, actually headed right towards the public library where you are.â
âIâm telling you Haerin knowsâHoly!â
âThey drove into the building.â
âI can tellâthe zipper of my hoodie is stuck.â
âJust leave it.â
âRight, good idea!â
The loud sound of glass breaking shook up the whole library, shrieks and panicked cries mixed in with the already loud volume of sirens and sizzling of what was a reeking car motor. Amidst the chaos and people trying to evacuate, the course of the tall bookshelves was yelling timber.
It seemed to not warn the two girls right under them quickly enough though. Danielle barely managed to make a sound from the fear, already grasping onto Haerin to try and get away from the falling shelves. However, their sense of orientation was extremely off in a moment of pure distress.
âReady, quite not steady, and go!â A squeak and a grunt were all that was heard before the numerous thuds of shelves falling like dominos followed, leaving nothing but clouds of dust in the air.
Danielle shut her eyes tightlyâunsure if she was dead or aliveâwhile hugging the firm yet somehow comforting body. The wind gushed against her skin and she felt the pull of gravity before her toes felt the ground and she opened her eyes.
âEverything alright?âÂ
She swallowed, her knees almost giving up from the intensity of the adrenaline, once again being met by the local superhero. However, her eyes fell on the black zip-up hoodie, it was so oddly familiar, that it caused her deja vu and she wondered if a book had hit her head after all. It felt like she had seen it just a second ago, the black hoodie with a few red stars stitched onto it which was half zipped up. She was too shaken up to put a finger on it though.Â
âYeah?â She said, however, she did sound quite unsure as they stood now on the second level of the library by the fire escape staircase. Her eyes trailed up the slightly taller figure, the local Spidey tilted her head in confusion and leaned her face in slightly closer.
âDid anything hit your head?â âSheâs fine, letâs go already!â Haerin impatiently complained as she was far too scared to stay any longer in the library after almost dying and then flying through the air.Â
She grabbed hold of Danielleâs arm to pull her away, but the latter stopped. âWait!â She finally came back to her senses and looked at the person who saved her.
The words were right at the tip of her tongue; wanting nothing more than to utter the words thank you. However, Haerin was too impatient as she kept on trying to drag the girl towards the exit that was being held open.
âItâs literallyââ Danielle gasped, widening her eyes at the web that was shot at her friend, quite literally gluing her mouth shut and making her stumble.
âCats donât talk. It will dissolve in an hour or so, be safe, cya later, alligatorâŚâ The hero dove right back to the first level of the library and Danielle watched with a defeated look on her face.Â
âYouâre so lameâŚOkay, but does she know? Dani is so cute thoughââÂ
âNot the printer!â
âThat was so scary.â Danielle let out a breath, finally being able to breathe properly after forgetting to do it correctly due to the shock. Those near-death situations were taking a toll on her and she had yet to thank the person who had saved her each of those times.Â
âUgh, did any get in my hair?âÂ
She looked away from the distance of the campus grounds where they were sitting on a bench to reflect on what had happened. Her eyes landed on Haerin who hadnât been pleased at all despite being saved.Â
âBut also so cool, sheâs kind of cute.â The girl mumbled as she shook her head, forgetting what Haerin had asked.
Danielleâs thoughts were swinging through her head with no direction, she was trying to connect the web, but it was quite literally impossible because she had no clue where to start. Nothing made sense.
âFirst off, nothing cool or cute with what she did to me and second; why are you so obsessed with her?â Haerin complained and angrily leaned back against the bench while taking out her phone to check if she looked fine.
âItâs like white knight syndrome or whatever itâs called.â The younger girl added and put her phone away before looking at her friend who looked right back at her with a frown.
âItâs not, she saved me, I wanted to say thank you,â Danielle argued as she didnât want anything else from the local hero. Just a small thank you.
âYeah, but whereâs Y/n?â That seemed to be a very common question.Â
She parted her lips and looked at the lock screen of her phone; a message popped up right as she did. âI just got a text from her.â It was such a normal occurrence that she learned not to be as worried whenever the girl disappeared because somehow Y/n always ended up fine when she checked back to Danielle.Â
She couldnât lie and say that she didnât get a little sombre whenever the girl just disappeared. It always made her wonder if Y/n really had emergencies or was looking for ways to escape her.
Has Danielle done something wrong? She sighed and opened the text, but despite those little worries she still smiled.
Danielle looked down at her phone, she had been preoccupied with her thoughts rather than paying the usual attention she would to her friends.
She was expecting a text from Y/n with another excuse because those werenât unusual just like her leaving. It was hard to figure out what the problem was when Y/n was more of a mystery than anything most of the time.Â
Maybe Danielle was reading too much into it?
The little bell above the door jingled, making the conversation stop for a second and Danielle looked up with hope that was nothing but crushed when it wasnât Y/n. Â
âSorry!â Y/n exclaimed, running through the busy street with people.Â
The girl glanced down at her phone, 20 minutes late, it could be worse. It had been a long and busy night, by the time she arrived at the dorm the sun was coming up and by the time she fell asleep her alarm started going off. Y/n had ignored Sakuraâs advice to cancel and stay in to sleep; she couldnât miss the opportunity to be with Danielle.Â
She fixed the backpack that was sliding off her shoulder and took the last turn, finally arriving at the door of the cafĂŠ. Y/n stopped for a second, looking inside to see her group of friends already there.
Her eyes stayed fixated on the girl who was the definition of a sunflower the way she always looked at the bright side of things.
Danielle looked less bright this time though.
The girl pushed the door open and made it inside, clearing her throat and gazing towards the floor at the attention it got her. However, she didnât miss how Danielle smiled towards her when her head turned.
âSorry for being late.â She apologised like she usually got to do.
âDonât worry about it, the movie starts in an hour so you have time.â Hanni was the one to speak and Y/n nodded, removing her backpack before trying as casually as possible to take a seat beside Danielle. It was like she forgot how to control her body around the girl, her whole body tingled as she took her seat and took a deep breath.Â
She watched the girl that had been late who was now sitting and drinking a second coffee. Well, Danielle was observant, at least when it came to Y/n, she somehow caught on to the small changes in her. It wasnât hard for her to tell that the girl who was sitting right beside herâtheir knees occasionally brushing, making them both freeze upâwas exhausted.Â
She felt a bit too shy to straight up ask if Y/n was fine, especially in front of the rest. The girl cared, but she was worried that it would be too obvious.
How stupid could she be? Y/n was her friend, she shouldnât feel nervous about asking simple questions, or be nervous around her at all. It wasnât how she felt around her other friends.
Yeah, Danielle liked to play coy with herself.Â
She listened in on the conversation Y/n was having with the rest all while gathering some courage to pull Y/n into a conversation just with her once they would be done. However, she would second guess herself because the girl beside her who was close to falling asleep would always avoid her or just leave with no word.Â
âIs the cake good?â It seemed to bring Danielle out of her thoughts, realising that she was overthinking once again. Y/n beat her to it and maybe the girl didnât mind her in the end. The second Y/n would talk to Danielle sheâd forget her worries and feel the jitters spark her up to talk.Â
âOh, yeahâŚDo you want some?â She asked as she looked down at the piece of cake that she had forgotten about midway because of how she lost herself.Â
Y/n nodded her head, forgetting words as she was already stuttering in her body language unsure of what to do. Was she supposed to reach for the cake?
Her eyes watched Danielle who pushed it closer and Y/n was about to reach her hand for the fork, however, the latter beat her to it. Her eyes wandered, trying to look at Danielle who was looking at her, but she only could hold eye contact for a second and not any longer.Â
âTake a bite and act coolâŚYouâre anything, but cool though.â
Y/n had a feeling she would melt from the heat running up to her ears as she let Danielle feed her. The cake was sweet, but Y/n couldnât help but think about how much sweeter the girl beside her was as she smiled at her.
âI was worried you wouldnât show up, you know?â Did that mean that Danielle liked having Y/n around? That she noticed when she wasnât present? It could be a friendly thing though, right?Â
âYouâre so bad at reading words.â
âSorry, I was up studying and missed my alarm.â Y/n lied, she couldnât tell the girl the truth. She couldnât tell her that all those times she left her without a word was because she was more than just Y/n; the girl who rode her skateboard into Danielle on the first day of college.Â
It made a shiver run across her body; maybe friends were all they should be. Y/n couldnât provide Danielle with a sun 24/7 because she would always come and go. The girl beside her deserved a sun and more, all Y/n could give was the dust she left behind her every time she disappeared.Â
âItâs fine, Iâm happy you showed up in the endââ Danielle frowned when Y/n abruptly stood up from her chair, it caught everyoneâs attention at the table.Â
âSorry! I have to take this,â she quickly excused herself, not waiting for another word as she grabbed her stuff and was already out the door.Â
Danielle felt herself deflate once more as her head started to grasp at any possible straws as to why Y/n always left her behind.Â
âThere was a robbery at a corner store, he is heading your way right now.â
âOkayâŚâ
âAre you alright?â
âDani probably deserves better than me.â
âWhy would you say that?â
âShe deserves someone who can be there for her all the time, I canât.â
âY/nââ
What was peaceful yet somewhat gloomy for Danielle only seemed to turn worse when the door to the quiet cafĂŠ burst open. âEveryone get on the ground!â The sight of a man nothing more than paranoid and with a firearm was enough to cause chaos among the customers who ducked to the floor when the man pointed at them.Â
âOh no!â Hanni cried out as the four girls found themselves on the floor, trying to hide under the table and stay out of sight.Â
âShut up,â Minji warned as they had yet to have the gun pointed their way and seeing how the man was paranoid, anything could go wrong.Â
âI just bought these jeans.â The shorter girl complained.
âSpider-woman, sheâs here somewhere, I saw her!â The man exclaimed, revealing the cause of his paranoia. âI will hurt someone if she tries anything.â
âAm I the only one who finds it weird thatââ Haerin tried to say something, only to have Minji cover her mouth, shushing her the same way she had done with Hanni.
Danielle thought she would grow used to it by now, but it wasnât pleasant this time either when she was in danger. It seemed to be everywhere she went lately and each time she was more worried about Y/n than herself; what if she ran back inside? The man would fire right away, wouldnât he?
Her eyes scanned around the place, her phone was still atop the table and she tried as subtly as possible to reach for it. It seemed though that Minji was as paranoid as the man with a gun; it was quite valid, but still.
âStop it, heâs gonna see you.âÂ
âI need my phone.â
âWhat for? Weâre all about to die.â Minji argued with the girl, trying to pull her back down and under the table where they hadnât been spotted yet.Â
âOh my God, I donât wanna die.â Hanni cried.Â
âLook at what you did,â Danielle complained, trying to divert Minjiâs attention to Hanni who was about to start crying. âI need it toââ
âWhatâre you two doing!?â Both girls flinched and tried to retreat right back to cower away from the man. Haerin clicked her tongue at Hanni who was close to climbing onto her to try and hide.
âNothing good sir!â Minji squeaked out, widening her eyes as he made his way towards them.
âThrow your phones away.â He ordered them, Hanni and Minji were the first ones to slide their phones over to the man's feet.Â
âYou two, your phones.â Haerin was next when he pointed the firearm her way, but Danielle was stubborn. All she wanted to do was send a text to warn the girl who could show up any second.Â
âGive him the damn phone.â They bickered, trying to pry it away from her hold.Â
âNoo.â She whined, but it got snatched by none other than the man himself who tossed it to the side.Â
âYou.â âMe?â Minji pointed at herself when he pointed at her. âGet up.âÂ
âWell, I think I'd rather sit here andââ âI said get up!â Her arm got grabbed, her other arm slipping out of Hanniâs grasp who was still hiding behind Haerin.
âOkay, but youâre actually hurting my arm.â Minji pointed out, pointing at the hand that was gripping her arm quite tightly.Â
âAre you all making fun of me!?â The man snapped and another wave of panicked gasps and cries echoed through the cafĂŠ when the firearm was pointed right at the girl; holding her at gunpoint.Â
Danielle tried to look for a rational solution to this. Where were the cops? She looked around while her friends tried to reason with the criminal. Minji looked like she was about to pass out.Â
Where was Spider-woman?
For whatever reason, she looked up with a frown and got her answer when she saw the figure through the closed ventilation. She blinked at the gesture of the hero who was signalling. Danielle got it.
âKnock knock.â The man snapped his head up at the ventilation right above him at the voice.Â
âWhoâs there, I will shoot!âÂ
âYour friendly neighbourhood spider-woman,â yet again, screams followed as the vent fell out and a gunshot followed, hitting the ceiling. Danielle quickly got up and grabbed hold of Minjiâs arm, pulling her away while the hero tackled the man right to the ground.
The four girls watched the hero who saved the day once again swing away and disappear between the buildings. As they fell into chatter about what had happened while the cops handled the rest of the situation, Danielle finally got to open her messages with Y/n. It had been a while since she left.
âHeyââ She didnât manage to even start the text and looked right back up, seeing the girl running towards them. âWhat happened?â Hanni was the first one to jump right into explaining what happened as if she hadnât cried through the whole scene.
âHow about we just watch a movie at our dorm?â Minji suggested, offering hers and Hanniâs dorm after what happened.Â
âAre you alright?â Y/n walked over to Danielle as they all started heading back to college grounds, knowing very well what had gone down in the cafĂŠ the second she left. She still wanted to make sure that Dani was alright.Â
Danielle hummed and gave Y/n a smile. âYeah,â she chuckled and looked over the girlâs face who still looked just as tired. She smiled a little bigger at the genuine worry Y/nâs face held. âYouâre lucky.â She commented.
âI am?â Y/n questioned, getting another hum, watching the way Danielle gave her a nod of affirmation with it. Her breath got caught in her throat when she felt Danielleâs fingers brush against hers.Â
âHold her hand, just take it into yours like they do in moviesâŚâÂ
Y/n glanced down at the girlâs handâtheir friends not paying them any mind as they walked in front of themâthey were so close and all she wanted to do was hold Daniâs hand.Â
âYeah, itâs like you sense danger, the way you disappear when something bad is about to happen.â Y/n let out a small laugh at the words that reminded her of why she had disappeared and remembered what she had come to realise right before it.
âI think Sakura is the one who can sense it since she called.âÂ
Danielle twisted her lips, trying to keep up her smile as she glanced downâwanting to hold Y/nâs handâand Y/n put her hands in the pockets of her jeans.Â
âYou did miss Spiderwoman though.â She joked, trying to lighten up her heart which seemed to get a little dull.Â
âSoâŚSomewhere between lucky and unlucky.â Danielle smiled, shaking her head, Y/n still managed to brighten up everything for her.Â
Danielle hadnât been expecting much to come out of sitting and watching movies in Minji and Hanniâs cramped dorm. It was cosy, to say the least, but she was still too busy thinking about the girl beside her.Â
Could she even call them mixed signals?Â
Dani felt time stop for a few seconds, her heart stalled as she tensed up. She tried to move as little as possible as she was sitting on the bed with the girl whose head was now on her shoulder. It wasnât weird, she would lend her shoulder to all her friends, thatâs just how she was, but having Y/nâs head drop onto her shoulder felt different and she was aware.Â
Painfully aware.
She glanced down at the girl who was asleep, carefully moving her hand over to Y/nâs which was resting beside her leg. Danielle gently ran her fingers over the girlâs arm which was covered by a hoodie.
She smiled when she got to the girlâs hand, tracing her thumb over Y/nâs soft palm before she pulled the sleeve of the hoodie down further and took her hand into her lap; she did get to hold her hand in the end.Â
All Danielle needed to do now was just find the opportunity to talk to Y/n.
After a day that had felt dragged out attending classes, Y/n found herself away from campus. The ground under her vibrated as yet another train passed by, sitting right under the subway tracks where the old and quite abandoned skatepark was.
It had been a while since she last had time to enjoy it and mess around on her board, however during one of her classes with Dani the girl had asked her if they could spend time alone.
Of course, Y/n had concluded that a crush was all that Danielle would ever be to her and she would never become more. How could she become more if Y/n couldnât even start by giving her enough now?Â
It didnât mean that she wouldnât spend time with her, especially since just the thought of Dani made Y/n smile which was something she always needed in her world.
Who would have thought that being the local superhero could turn so gloomy at times? She loved it, but it took away a lot, especially the people around her and holding a secret this big could almost feel like a heavy burden on her shoulders.Â
She glanced at her phone, bobbing her head along to the song that played through the speakers of her headphones. The girl had arrived earlier to skate before Danielle would arrive and the latter should be there soon enough unless she had missed her train.Â
However, nothing could go as planned for Y/n when her music was interrupted by a call from Sakura.
âThere have been disruptions between the control centre and the incoming subway train after the ropes snapped on the crane causing girders to fall right atop the tracks, Y/n.â
âIs it really thatâWait, is it the train that stops near the campus?â
âExactly that one and it will fly right off the rails in a few minutes.â
âDani is on that train.â
Danielle flinched at the sudden and loud thud that made her look up from her phone, eyes widening at the familiar figure that clung onto the side of the train, staring right at her through the window.
She was confused, watching the spider crawl up and disappear and suddenly her heart rate spiked up.Â
Of course, Spider-Woman was nothing but good, but if she suddenly appeared, it could only mean that something was wrong. Not only did she appear out of nowhere, but quite literally halfway changed with a hoodie, shorts, and sneakers still on with the suit under the regular clothes.Â
How bad was it?
Danielle got her answer the second the train screeched, making her grab hold of the pole she stood beside to not fly right onto the floor at the abrupt stop. It was still rolling, trying to stop, screeching and making people fall into panicked chatter, trying to figure out what was going on.
Something made the air shake from what sounded like an explosion.Â
It all turned into those familiar gasps and distressed shouts as everyone was growing scared; Danielle included when the railway vehicle finally came to a stop but with a loud crash and suddenly the wagon was starting to tip over, tilting forward. As far as Dani was concerned the subway didnât go downhill, especially not at a steep angle like this was starting slowly to become.Â
It had stopped, but it was gradually with intervals tilting or more so falling more and more. Danielle quickly moved over to the windows, grabbing hold of another pole to try and get a peek at what was going on.Â
âThe whole crane exploded and the bridge!â
âAre you handling it? This is probably something more than just an accident.âÂ
âIâm trying to prevent the operator cab from falling off and dragging the rest of the wagons with itâpeople need to start evacuating from the back exit.â
Watching the front of the train hang in the air, supported by multiple webs that connected to the other end of the bridge, looked far from right. It wasnât right as she watched the hero shoot more strings to hold it all up.
She could barely see through the thick black clouds of smoke that were coating the air around it from the fire under it.Â
âEveryone, evacuate through the last wagon, firefighters are waiting!â That was all she caught before people started to pile up to get to the back. They were quite literally in the third wagonâthe second was out of service, the first one off the rails.Â
Danielle got bumped into as she was about to do the same, her frame being pushed the wrong way and the subway train dropped yet again, making her stumble back and onto the hard floor with a yelp. The angle would become steep any second now and she wouldnât be able to make it out at all.
Oh was she going to die such a pathetic death?
No way, she still had to talk to Y/n, may that thought be what saved her as yet another explosion followed with terrified screams.Â
âGive me a break.â She groaned in annoyance and pulled herself up on her feet, watching people running out of the wagon she was in and disappear, heading towards the end of the tail.
Clearly, not everyone could be called a hero after no one had even considered helping her up. Bitterly she was back up on her feet, holding onto whatever she could to make it easier to walk up the acute angle.Â
It wasnât too bad yet, but she felt heat run across her spine because it couldnât be good for too long. Lately, it has been anything but good, but she tried to look on the bright side, if she got out she would finally be able to talk to Y/n; she has waited a week now to gather the courage.
It wasnât good, but it could be worse, couldnât it?
Danielle ran, whatever was happening behind her didnât sound good at all and it felt like she was running on a treadmill whose incline constantly went up. Exhaustion was starting to take over and her legs burned, praying that she wouldnât slip because if she went down now, there was no going back.Â
Nope! She probably jinxed herself.
Something snappedâthe websâand it was free fall from there, right back to where she came from. She tried to grab onto something, but her feet didnât slip, however, her hands did as she missed the next pole, only touching it with her fingertips.
A shriek escaped her lips and no thoughts were left in her head, vividly aware of there being no point as nothing mattered anymore if she was falling to her death anyway.
âIncy Wincy Spider climbed up the rails!â Her body was caught and she huffed, tightly wrapping her arms around the shoulders. âDown goes the train!â Only hearing the webs shoot out before they were launched up, a loud crash followed with another explosion after them and she didnât dare to open her eyes because she couldnât tell if she was alive or dreaming after feeling a wave of heat hit her too.Â
The air around her swooshed, sirens, screams and it was all growing faint as an arm wrapped around her waist. She slowly dared to open her eyes, she was far from the ground and it made her grip tighten.Â
Dani however trusted the person who held her, trusting her not to let her fall as she hadnât let her fall with the train she saw down below; it had fallen off the tracks, going up in flames with everything else. The Spidey who was holding onto her kept humming the nursery rhyme she had tweaked earlier.
She inhaled deeply at the pull of gravity with her eyes closed, she only opened them once she felt the ground under her feet.
âYouâre all safe now.â Danielle carefully stepped back, looking around to see that she was at the top of a building. Her eyes fell back on the girl in front of her before she could disappear.
âThe door is unlocked and you can just head down.â She looked where the door was and snapped her head back at the footsteps.
There was still something she wanted to do, something she had wanted to do for a while now and sheâs simply never had the chance. Spider-woman lived a fast-paced life, but Dani was sure she could make some time for her, at least for a few minutes.
âWait!â She exclaimed and grabbed onto the girlâs wrist who had turned around to run off. It made Spidey turn back around on her heels with a hum, tilting her head at Danielle. She let go and took a breath before swallowing to make room for the words.
âThank you.â Danielle finally managed to get out and let out a breathless chuckle at the finger-guns pointed at her as the hero slowly backed up. This was it.
âOf course, Iâm your friendly neighbourhoodââ
âThank you for always looking out for me, Y/n.â Dani added and inhaled deeply, balling up her fists before she relaxed, releasing that breath she took.Â
âWhat?â
âI know youâre under the mask, Y/n,â Danielle stated, her tone firm yet she felt it all shaking up inside her.Â
The hero let out a little chuckle. âWhat if Iâm not actually under the mask? Wonât it be embarrassing for you if you are wrong?
She let out a breath, a hopeless chuckle and maybe she couldnât get Y/n to trust her.Â
âY/n, Iâve been sure about it for the past week,â the signs were all there laid out in front of her this whole time, they had been especially clear these past few weeks.
The time in the park when a phone was buzzing and stopped the second Daniâs call to Y/n ended.Â
The hoodie in the library, Y/n had the same hoodie on her before disappearing, Danielle had seen the girl wear it on multiple occasions before too. Sakura had helped her patch those stars onto it; Y/n would never shut up about it and Dani loved watching her happily boast about her roommate.
The rhymes, the âcya later alligatorâ and the lame but somehow endearing and cute actions and words she only knew Y/n for.Â
Simply the fact that Y/n always disappeared whenever crime took place. Hell, she had never seen Spider-woman and Y/n in the same room and considering how often she was with Y/n it would have happened by now.Â
The Saturday after what happened at the cafĂŠ when they went to watch movies at their friends' dorm. That was the night her suspicions got confirmed when she saw the suit peek out from Y/nâs hoodie, making Danielle cover it for her so no one else would see.Â
Everything was in front of her now as the Spider-woman was wearing Y/nâs clothes over the suit.Â
Dani watched the way Spider-woman, Y/n, slumped her shoulders and looked down.Â
âDaniââ Y/n tried, but was cut off by the latter.Â
She was feeling vulnerable, everything she had tried to prevent from happening was happening. Y/n was supposed to leave Danielle behind, but now she knew about her biggest secret. She was letting her into parts of her life she hadnât let anyone else into except her roommate.Â
âI just wish you trusted me the same way I trust you and wouldnât put a distance between us.â She let out, jutting out her lower lip as she frowned, her deep breaths mixing with the wind that howled in her ears.Â
âI donât put a distance between us, Dani.â Y/n tried to argue, but she knew very well how many miles she had put between them. From the secrets to the lies, all the way to all the things she had done to try and avoid letting Danielle in too close. She couldnât do it to the girl, she couldnât let her into a place she would never stay in because Y/n would always come and go.
That was her life as the friendly neighbourhood Spider-woman.
âBut you do and I donât understand whyâŚYou wonât even take off your mask!â She raised her voice in desperation as she refused to let Y/n close the door on her.
Dani never cared about Y/n staying, all she cared about was being let inside so Y/n would have someone to come back to once she did. She had come to the realisationâafter figuring out the girlâs secret identityâthat Y/n would always leave, but sheâd also always come back.
If only she had let Danielle know why she always left in the first place then they wouldnât be in this position.
Y/n huffed and pulled the mask off of her face, using her sleeve to wipe away the tears that had formed from the intensity of the moment as so much had just happened.
All she could do now was make Danielle understand just why she put a distance between them; explain why she distanced herself from most people. How her life was miserable without the people closest to her, but how she still couldnât be as close as she wanted with them.Â
How Dani deserved way better than her.
Y/n bunched up the mask in her fist, she loved it, she loved it all, but she hated so many parts of it. She hated that to save the lives of people, she had to hurt the people she loved the most by disappointing them.Â
âYou know it's like when my spidey senses are tingling but the difference is that you cause more than a micro shift when you step in a room and it causes my whole body to tingle.â Y/n at last confessed, the words bursting out of her as she threw her arms up. It made her pace back and forth at the frustrations of having so much to give, but not being able to.Â
âI feel so hopeless because youâre the sunshine, a sunflower always looking towards the bright and I try to do that but my world isn't as bright.â She continued, refusing to look at Danielle as she stopped and glared down at the roof under her feet.
Y/nâs body deflated like a balloon, feeling all those pent-up emotions of anger disappear and the sadness of the situation wash over her instead.
âItâs full of danger, itâs full of uncertainty about tomorrow, it can turn gloomy on the brightest days, itâs a burden I love and hate carrying. It isnât something you deserve, something anyone close to me deserves.â Y/n sighed and all she felt like doing was crying as she knew that it was over from here.
âI will never be able to just be there, I will always appear and disappear.â
Danielle would understand the reality of Y/nâs life and leave her behind before Y/n could do it; not like she would be able to do it, but the sunflower would turn away from the sun that never stayed, and find one that would always be there.Â
âDani, you deserve better than me.â Y/n widened her eyes and looked up in panic. âOh my god do you even like me like that!?â It would be embarrassing if she had just assumed that Danielle wanted to be more than friends. Even if they would only be friends, Y/n still needed her to understand why the distance was needed. Â
Danielle chuckled, watching the girl who almost jumped at the sheer panic. She heard every word Y/n told her and instead of them pushing her away, they made her want to step so much closer to her. It made her realise how much Y/n needed someone and she wanted to be that someone simply because it was Y/n.Â
âYou donât even realise what youâre saying.â The girl stated as she made it in front of Y/n and grabbed hold of her hands. Dani looked down at the mask clutched in the gloved hand, the mask of far more responsibility than one person could carry alone.Â
âWhat?â Y/n looked at the girl who she viewed as a sunflower, feeling the warmth swallow her ears when Danielle looked up and met her eyes.
Under the sun, her eyes glimmered, with the wind her curls gently moved and with the smile that plastered itself on her lips Y/nâs whole world lit up and it always made everything feel easier.Â
âA sunflower?â Danielle questioned with a breathless chuckle, her thumbs caressing Y/nâs hands.Â
âYesâŚâ She mumbled, glancing away as she was worried that Dani would find the comparison stupid.Â
âI look towards the bright, I look at you and get warm, feel a smile form, Y/n. Why on earth would I ever not like you back? If Iâm a sunflower then youâre the sun I turn towards.â
Yeah, Danielleâs whole body was fuzzy and maybe her fingers would tremble from the nerves if she didnât hold onto Y/n, but she dwelled on the feeling as she watched Y/n with a fond smile. The girl simply made her feel warm and bright just by being there.Â
It made her burdens disappear, she only wanted Y/n to feel the same way.Â
âYouâre exactly what I deserve and want and you deserve to have someone there for you too. I canât let you carry it all alone. So what if you leave? So does the sun in the sky.â She glanced towards the said sun with her eyes squinted, tightening her grip on Y/n.
Danielle was ready to risk it all for Y/n because she was all that she wanted. It was scary, she had to admit that it was, Y/n was right, tomorrow was unknown and it was terrifying but she knew what she wanted at the moment and that was where she lived, only worrying about what was now. She could worry about the unknown future when it would come.Â
âYou deserve someone who will be there when you come back and I want to be that home for you, Y/n.âÂ
Y/n had no words; she hadnât been expecting things to turn out this way at all. She had expected Danielle to leave her, to be a sun with nothing to warm up.
Her ears were muffled, her face felt hot, her heart beat up in her ears and she could feel those tingles running all over her body again, feeling the shift in her that the girl in front of her always caused.
Suddenly she felt like the bee that was drawn to the sunflower because the warmth it gathered had been just what Y/n needed without realising. Luckily she had Dani to realise it for her.Â
The girl huffed when Y/n crashed into her, hugging her close. Danielle wrapped her arms around Y/nâs waist, resting her cheek against the taller girlâs shoulder.
The loud thumping of Y/nâs heart matched hers and she smiled, closing her eyes as she could remember how it sounded the same that day in the park. They were tangled up together, but tangled together in webs of love with their hearts.Â
âThank you, Dani.â She mumbled.Â
The girl was everything that she had imagined and so much more as she turned out to be something that Y/n also needed. Most importantly, Y/nânot spider-womanâbut Y/n was someone that was needed beyond her secret identity, someone who Danielle wanted and needed there.Â
âIâm always here.â She reassured Y/n as they pulled back, she bit her lower lip at the blush on Y/nâs cheeks who exhaled deeply before looking at her seriously. However, Daniâs silly superhero couldnât keep her composure as she covered her face with her gloved hands, letting out an almost inaudible squeal.
âItâs official then!â Danielle hummed, tilting her head and Y/n peeked out from between her fingers.Â
âYouâre my girlfriend.âÂ
âOh? Just like that?â She questioned with a laugh at the statement, seeing that she hadnât been left with another choice as Y/n finally showed her flushed face with that big smile.Â
âYes, itâs not even up for discussionââ Y/n firmly stated as she put the mask back on, stepping back she pointed at Danielle with finger guns once again. âI will go and figure out whatever it was that happened and meet you at the dorms.âÂ
She giggled, nodding at Y/n words, watching the girl who was turning around, but she stopped just as she was going to run off.Â
âWait, wait, can we justâwhat ifâŚâ Y/n stuttered, turning back around on her heels, she cleared her throat and rubbed at the back of her neck. âWe kiss.â She tried to suggest as casually as possible with a shrug, letting her hand fall.Â
âIf you want to.âÂ
âYes, I'd love to.âÂ
Danielle shook her head as Y/n didnât move from her spot, so she took it upon herself after seeing the girl glued to her spot. She looked up at Y/n who hadnât even started to lift the mask.
âYouâre such a goof,â Dani stated and reached up, pulling Y/nâs mask up above her nose before cupping her face and leaning in as she stood on her toes, finally feeling Y/n move and hold onto her waist.
âOh my, about to faint, Dani is going to kiss you, youâre about to kissâ!!!!!!!!!!!â
#kpop x reader#newjeans x reader#new jeans x reader#newjeans danielle#danielle marsh x reader#danielle x reader#danielle marsh#mo jihye#mo jihye x reader#newjeans fluff#newjeans imagines
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blame the âhitting on your mom as a punishmentâ tiktok i just saw that literally blew my brain up. established because theyâre disgustingly in love and because i say so
Eddie would normally consider himself pretty immune to the roar of arguing teenagers. Chaos surrounds their little Party. Theyâre not a quiet bunch when all together. Itâs all shoving and yelling, giggling and roughhousing. Carpet-burned battle scars from the floor of Steveâs living room.
Lord knows Eddie himself wasnât an inside-voice kind of person. He was certainly wont to standing on coffee tables and screeching demands for the remote when it was unjustly stolen away by villainous hands.
Eddie loved these people to death, and they were a lot of fucking fun to hang out with, itâs just this...this was an unreal level of noise. A normal sleepover night turned a little too rowdy, the adolescents celebrating the start of Summer with a bang.
Steve had already asked them to keep it down four times this evening. Nothing seemed to calm them. Not requests. Not threats of being sent home. Usually their Dungeon Master threatening their charactersâ souls did the trick, but no go.Â
Getting teenagers to listen? A feat more impossible than defeating creatures from an alternate universe.Â
Dustin and Erica were in a bitching match about the best D&D class. Lucas and Mike had been fighting over movie choices for the last half hour. Eddieâs money was on the VHS player breaking before that, the constant mishandling and shoving of tapes had the poor thing practically smoking.
Will, ever the diplomat, was trying to be an impartial party when asked his movie opinions. Which, of course, caused more yelling.Â
Max and El had been the only ones being semi-quiet, but that quickly ended when they followed through on their surprise attack pillow fight, pummeling the boys senseless and causing the already unbearable volume to kick into overdrive. Eddie could practically feel Steveâs migraine building, even from where the dude had retreated to the kitchen. Dinner had been pizza. Quick. Easy. Clean. Or, it would have been if it hadnât had been for the food fight. Steve was still in there scrubbing cheese out of his parentsâ tiled backsplash. Dishes clattered in the distance when the cacophony hit its crescendo.Â
It was the proverbial straw.Â
âAlright, thatâs it! Hey. Come on, guys. Knock it off,â
Nothing.Â
âHEY!â
He maybe overdid it that time, but the absolute ear-splitting boom of a yell he let out stopped the ruckus dead.Â
Silence rang for a beat.
Huh. Maybe Eddie should try out incorporating that into his music. He honestly hadnât known he could get to that range.Â
The teenagers in the room stared at him, not cowed in the slightest, but curious enough to know what the hell Eddieâs problem was. Max was the first one to quirk an eyebrow at him. âGeez, need attention much?âÂ
Eddie folded his arms to show he meant business. âSteve has asked you guys to tone it down. Youâre waking the fucking dead. Why donât you guys, like, actually go be good human beings and help him clean up your mess you all made in the kitchen, huh?âÂ
Lucas snorted. âYeah, okay, mom. Why donât you go help him, you guys will probably just make out in there, anyway.âÂ
It was a teasing comment. Meant to jokingly rib before getting back to doing whatever the hell they wanted to do.
But, see. That just gave him an idea.Â
Never let it be said Eddie couldnât be creative with his punishments. He was a DM after all.Â
âAlllllllright. New plan. Listen up or suffer, ankle biters,âÂ
He really didnât appreciate the snickers that brought about when he was trying to be intimidating. Rude.Â
âYou going to send us to our room or something? Iâm real scared,â Ericaâs scathing, dry wit was unparalleled, truly.Â
âNope. Better. Itâs a new rule: You little shitheads give me attitude and donât listen, I hit on your babysitter.â
It was silent for a minute, brains audibly computing that statement and coming up ERROR. Will hesitantly spoke up.Â
âUh, Eddie, I really donât think thatâs--â
âYeah, what the fuck?â Mike interrupted. âWhy would you beating up Steve hurt us? I mean, like, I guess it would emotionally, but thatâs fucked up, man.âÂ
Eddie rolled his eyes, still smirking wickedly as his plan solidified. âOh, I donât mean that kind of hitting, young Wheeler. Though, it may yet get physical--Hey, Steve?â He called out. The sink in the kitchen shut off after a second.
âYeah?âÂ
âCan you come here?âÂ
The kids shuffled around on the floor warily as the other man walked into the living room. The energy had obviously shifted, it was probably an odd vibe to walk in to, but Eddie cut Steve off before he could ask any questions.
âYou tired?â
âUh, no. Iâm fine--â
âItâs just you just keep on runninâ through my mind constantly. I figured youâd be exhausted, sweetheart,â Eddie purred, the words cloyingly sweet and full of exaggerated charm.Â
There was a countdown, three, two, one...
A collective groan let out. A few uncomfortable laughs. âDude, what the hell?âÂ
âYou guys agreed not to be gross in front of us!â
âOh, my god, can I actually get sick from how cheesy that was?âÂ
Eddie had to work at keeping in character when his very first line had pulled the intended reaction. He was already reaching forward to curl an arm around Steve, pulling him in in a slow, sultry attempt at being smooth.Â
âWhat? Canât I be sweet on my guy? You all will understand when youâre in love one day. Right, sugar?âÂ
Fake gags and retching sounds, too dramatic to be real protests, but still indignant and annoyed. Eddie was pretty sure Dustin slapped a hand over his eyes.
âUh...yes?â Steve, who had previously looked like a car accident had happened directly in front of him, was catching on to the play. He eyed the disgruntled floor-children with a growing grin and let Eddie snuggle up to him.
God, his baby was so clever. He always knew what Eddie was thinking.Â
Too busy having a non-verbal conversation with Steve on how to best annoy the kids, Eddie didnât see Mike turning his attention back to the tv. He did, however, hear him telling the others to âJust ignore them, theyâll get all gushy and leave us alone.âÂ
Oh, Michael, Michael. Wrong move.Â
âHow you doing, babygirl?â Steve flushed, deep and red and--huh. Okay. Revisiting that one in the future. âYou good? You need anything? Your head hurting, sweet thing? I can kiss it better,â Eddie ducked forward to kiss Steveâs cheek. It was chaste, a sweet little thing...that Eddie made infinitely worse by the smacking, obnoxious kissy sounds he emulated there. The chorus of groans and protests started up again. He didnât even pull his face away to call over to them.Â
âIâm sorry, is that attitude? Am I hearing more attitude?â
âDude, Eddie, noooo!âÂ
âJesus, itâs like watching your parents make out, oh my god.âÂ
âYou guys, letâs just go already,âÂ
âYeah, Iâll take washing dishes over this,âÂ
The grossed out teenagers whooshed past them. Grumbling and glaring--except Eleven, who smiled up at them sweetly--leaving Steve and Eddie standing in the living room, still wrapped up together.Â
It was too tempting then, with the kids safely out of range, for Eddie to resist the temptation to drop his kisses a little lower down Steveâs neck. To let them get a little less chaste. Just a little.
What can he say? Heâs a weak man.Â
âThat was evil,â Steve hummed. His shoulders dropped, though, relaxing into Eddieâs hold, the closest thing theyâve had to quiet all night settling in.Â
âHey, I accomplished two things. Got them to chill out and I get the perk of feeling you up in the middle of sleepover night. Itâs a win-win.âÂ
A crash and a muffled argument broke out in the kitchen before Steve could respond to that.Â
The audible scuffling was cut off by Eddie calling out âYour ass looks great in these jeans tonight, Harrington!âÂ
The fierce whispers and shushing were enough to get both of the older boys cackling loudly.Â
#Listen this is cheesy and poorly written but i HAD to#go find that tik tok because it was hilarious but also radiated love and healthy parenting#they called it 'gentle parenting with malicious intent' looooool#steddie#the party#my brain vomit
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Steve glances down at his watch and looks around at the kids anxiously awaiting Eddie's arrival. He's five minutes late. In any other situation, this wouldn't be a lot, but considering that Eddie makes it a point to be either on time or (most likely) early to anything involving D&D with the party... it's highly concerning.
Steve glances at his watch again just to give himself something to do when Dustin finally bursts out, "Okay! This has to be a prank, right? Like someone has to be in on this."
Steve glances at all the other kids staring blankly at Dustin and finally decides to take matters into his own hands. "I don't think that's what's going on, Henderson, but thanks for the input. You guys stay here, and I'll go check on his place."
"I'm coming with you," Dustin states firmly.
Steve furrows his brows. "No, you're staying because if Eddie gets here and you're gone then that just means more waiting." When Dustin crosses his arms and continues staring, Steve sighs, digs his wallet out of his pocket, and hands Dustin a few bills. "Order a pizza and hang out for a bit or something. Walkie me if he gets here."
Dustin smiles brightly and takes the money immediately rushing off to Mike who is already on the phone calling the pizza place. Steve puts his hands on his hips and asks, "And what do you say?"
"Thanks, Mom," Mike says flatly, raising his eyebrows and looking entirely unimpressed.
"Thank you!" Lucas says as Will smiles and gives him a quiet, "Thank you, Steve."
Steve waits for Dustin who rolls his eyes and says, "Thank you. Now check on Eddie." Steve raises his eyebrows. Dustin sighs, "Please."
"You guys are going to be the death of me," Steve says as he makes his way up the Wheeler's basement steps. He wishes Max and El were there to have his back, but they had taken the chance to have a sleepover while the guys were too distracted to interfere with their girl time. He thinks calling Max to ask her to check on Eddie would also count as interfering.
It's not that Steve minds too much. Really, he rarely gets alone time with Eddie, and it's been a while since he's truly checked up on him. After the bats, Steve often went to his place and helped with wound care since he personally knew what he was going through. But as time went on and their injuries slowly turned into scars, it was harder to find excuses to see Eddie alone.
So, Steve settles for seeing him when the kids invite them both to something, and he's started to even hang around during their D&D sessions, soaking in all of Eddie that he can. He still refuses to play, too afraid of the kids making fun of him for getting confused, but he easily gets lost in the campaigns through Eddie's storytelling.
He thinks it's easy to get lost in anything Eddie's passionate about. It may go right over Steve's head, but he would do just about anything to listen to Eddie ramble - sometimes it might just be an excuse to stare at his lips, but no one (except Robin) needed to know that.
Steve nearly misses his turn while thinking a little too hard about Eddie's lips, but he makes it, turning into the trailer park and parking outside of Eddie's place fairly quickly. He sees Eddie's van in the driveway and takes a deep breath, hoping Eddie just somehow lost track of time or something.
Steve quickly rushes out of the car and knocks on the front door, waiting to hear Eddie's footsteps or grumbling as he makes it to the door.
But silence is the only thing coming from the other side.
Steve knocks harder, hoping the neighbors won't start snooping with all the noise he's making, especially when, a few seconds later, Steve decides he has waited long enough and pulls the door open. He quickly closes it and locks it on instinct as he calls out, "Eddie?"
The living room and kitchen are empty, but Steve doesn't hear the shower running, so he quickly bursts into Eddie's room calling out his name again.
His eyes fall on Eddie lying in bed with the covers tucked all around him, but his pale face is slightly visible through the dark strands of hair covering it. The last time Steve had seen him like this was in the upside down when...
"Eddie!" Steve says, rushing to the side of the bed and brushing the hair out of his face. He cups Eddie's face in his hands and nearly shakes him before he sees his brows twitch as he begins frowning.
"What..." Eddie groans out, eyes squinting open.
Steve breathes out a sigh of relief as he nearly tackles Eddie into a tight hug, ending up nearly on top of him.
"Good morning to you, too," Eddie jokes, squeezing Steve back. "Wait, what time is it?"
Steve pulls back and looks down at him. He runs a hand over his cheek, feeling the warmth of it against his palm, a reminder that he's okay. "It's past five, and it's Friday."
It takes a few moments before a look of realization crosses over Eddie's face, his eyes widening as he curses, "Shit! I couldn't sleep last night, and I decided to take a nap around... three? Maybe?" He shifts back on the bed and starts trying to sit up.
Steve places a hand on his chest and pushes him back down.
"Hello," Eddie says as a blush spreads across his face. "This is fun, but I have a dungeon to master," he jokes, showing off his dimples.
Steve nearly forgets how to breathe for a second, but he finally gets it together enough to say, "You and I both know how hard it is to sleep after everything, so if you're able to sleep now, then you're sleeping."
"I'm fine, re-" Eddie yawns and covers his mouth. "Really."
Steve raises his eyebrows at him.
Eddie sighs and turns on his side to directly face him. "Steve, the kids will kill me if I don't do this session tonight."
"And I'll kill them if they give you shit about it. Does tomorrow night work?"
"I mean, yeah, probably but-"
"Great," Steve interrupts as he stands up and grabs the walkie Eddie keeps on a designated shelf. "Hey, Dustin, this is Steve."
"Is it a code red? Over." Dustin immediately replies on the other side.
"No, everything is fine here. We just need to postpone until tomorrow night if that's fine with everyone."
"There is no postponing D&D!" Dustin screeches.
Steve sighs and replies, "If you complain again I'm giving you no rides or money for a month."
There's a long pause from the other side before there's a response, "Tomorrow works! See you then!" Lucas answers.
Steve looks back at Eddie and gestures toward the walkie. "See?"
Except, Eddie is already beginning to doze off again, head nodding and snapping up every few seconds.
Steve smiles and slowly makes his way back to the bed, gently guiding Eddie back down before tugging up the covers and leaning over to press a gentle kiss against Eddie's forehead. "Goodnight."
As Steve begins to move back, Eddie's hand latches onto his wrist. He stares up at him sleepily and asks, "Stay? You need the sleep, too."
And he's right. He absolutely does need the sleep, and there's no way he's going to turn down the offer from Eddie, but... "Eddie, you're half asleep, you don't know what you're asking."
Eddie looks him in the eye and says, "I know exactly what I'm asking, and if I read the signs wrong then sue me."
Steve's heart beats a little faster in his chest. "Eddie..."
"Let's talk about feelings and everything when we wake up, okay? If you don't want to stay, that's okay. But know that I would want you here no matter what."
Steve looks down at him for a few seconds before he turns to take off his shoes. When he turns back, Eddie is smiling and holding the blanket up.
Steve accepts the invitation and finds himself wrapping his arms around Eddie and pulling him against his chest. Steve gently runs a hand through Eddie's hair, only stopping when Eddie grabs his hand and presses a gentle kiss against it.
Steve responds by bending down and planting a kiss on Eddie's head. He smiles when Eddie happily hums.
As Steve focuses on Eddie's breathing evening out, he finds himself matching it and slowly starts drifting off, falling asleep easily for the first time in a long time with happy thoughts of what's to come when they finally wake up.
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Steve wakes up to a beeping noise- a heart monitor. He struggles to open his eyes, turning to squint around the hospital room. Something about it feels off, though he canât tell what.
A woman stumbles in, almost spilling her coffee. She looks familiar.
âHey,â Steve tries, only to end up coughing. His throat is painfully dry.
âSteve!â She exclaims. She hurries over, swapping the coffee for a plastic cup of water. She carefully holds it to his mouth for him to drink. âYou have no idea how happy I am to see you awake! I know we canât talk here but⌠fuck, man, you really had us scared for a minute. Promise me you wonât do anything like that again!â
âI promise?â
âOh! Eddie finally woke up too! Just the other week. He keeps asking about you, I should go-â
Steve is only more confused. Thereâs only one Eddie he knows and that Eddie wouldnât be caught dead worrying about someone like Steve. Not unless...
âMunson?â
âDuh. Oh! Nancy! I was supposed to- youâre ok, right? Iâll just be a minute!â
âYeah, sure.â
She throws him a thumbs up, darting out the room, calling for Nancy.
His head throbs. Heâs not sure what is going on, what happened⌠maybe that thing in the Byers house did get him after all? Maybe this is just a dream.
"Ah, Mr Harrington," a nurse greets with a warm smile. "It's good to see you awake. I'm just going to check your vitals and all of that stuff, then we'll need to go over some questions. Does that sound alright?"
"Questions?"
"You've been asleep for a few weeks. We need to make sure that everything up there is ok." She lightly raps her knuckles on the side of her head.
Despite how light she's trying to be, Steve feels a sinking in his stomach.
"Is that possible? What- what could be wrong?"
"Nothing too serious. You're speech is clear and legible, you're conscious and cognitive." She lifts the clipboard off the end of the hospital bed. "You remember your name?"
"Yeah," he says. After a moment, he realizes; "oh! Right, sorry. Steve Harrington."
"Date of birth?"
"April 29th, 1967."
"Do you know what todays date is?"
"Um... how long have I been out? You said a few weeks, right?"
"Almost three weeks, yes."
"Three weeks, so that would make today... December 4th?"
She doesn't respond for a moment. The way she keeps her eyes on the clipboard feels too calculated.
"The year?"
"Uh... 1983?"
She only pauses for a moment, before continuing to ask simple questions about current events, how he's feeling, where he feels any pain or discomfort.
He lies when she asks if he remembers what caused him to be hospitalized. He's not sure what the story Nancy and Byers will give. He can't imagine people... involved, would want the truth out. And he's not willing to risk whatever consequences will come with that.
"I'm going to talk with your doctor," she finally says. "I'll be one minute."
"Wait! What- am I ok?"
"Your doctor will explain everything, don't worry."
Amnesia, his doctor explains.
Three years of his life, gone. They try to reassure him, say that it's still early days and he could completely regain his memory, no problem.
But they don't know. Not really. It's all 'possibly's, and 'maybe's. No guarentee. There's still a chance that he may never remember.
The woman who ran in when he woke up, sat by his bedside and holding his hand in a death grip, doesn't look anymore reassured by their optimism than he is.
"We're... close?" He asks her.
"Yeah," she says, forcing a smile. "Platonic soulmates. It's, um... Robin, by the way. Robin Buckley."
"Do we have that... Mrs Click, you sit behind me, right?"
"Yeah. Yeah, I did." She looks stunned, almost dazed. "I didn't think you remembered, or even noticed me."
"How could I not? You're hilarious!"
"What? We never-"
"Oh, uh, you're muttering. Behind me. It wasn't exactly, um... quiet."
"Oh my god," she slaps a hand to her mouth, eyes wide. "You heard me talk about you!"
"Yeah, like I said; you're funny."
Luckily, someone else bursts into the room, interrupting whatever epiphany Robin is having.
"Steve!" He yells.
The guy looks like a kid, barely out of middle school. But he rushes to Steve, eyeing him up like he's Steves babysitter.
"Uh, hi?"
"Oh no," is the kids response. He turns to Robin. "How much does he remember?"
"He is right here, you know."
"I think some time in 83?" Robin replies, ignoring him.
"Before or after the whole... uh..." He glances at Steve with suspicion, then pointedly to the door.
"Jesus," Steve mutters, rubbing at the crease between his brows. "Did Nancy and Jonathan tell you, or what?"
"Tell us about... what?"
He rolls his eyes at them, pointing to the kid. "Whatever has short stack paranoid. The thing with the-" he flops one hand around, raised towards the ceiling, "the lights."
"Do you remember anything that happened after that?" The kid quickly asks. "At the hospital, and Will?"
"You mean the Byers kid? Isn't he, like... dead?"
"So you... don't remember me."
"Sorry?"
"It's fine," he lies.
Steve hates how sad the kid sounds. He glances between the two of them, both seemingly wallowing quietly about the situation.
"Which room is Munson in?" He asks, breaking the silence.
"What?" The kid frowns. "Eddie? Why?"
"Which room?"
"He's two doors down to the left," Robin answers. "Why- woah! Don't get up! You're still-"
"I'm fine," Steve gently pushes her away, ignoring both of them trying to plead for him to get back into bed.
Despite the bandages, bruises and sick look to him, Munson somehow looks better than Steve remembers him looking. The longer hair definitely suits him.
"Steve?" He frowns. He tries to sit up but, grimacing, he soon stops. "What the hell are you doing up? You're gonna freak Dustin out."
"Dustin? That the kid?" He asks, grunting as he sits on the edge of his bed.
"What do-" he pauses, expressions slowly twisting with the horror and realization. "Yeah. Yeah, man, Dustin is the kid."
"Right. So... um... we're friends now?"
Eddie winces. "We haven't exactly had time to talk about... that."
"What? It's been years!"
"It's not that simple."
"Are you saying that because it's true or because you don't-"
"Because it's true," Eddie rolls his eyes. "A lot has happened since then, Steve. You fell in love with Wheeler."
"What?" Steve can't hide his confusion. "Nancy?"
"Yes, Nancy. You made sure everyone fucking knew about that."
Steve snorts, having to grab at his side with a wince. He bites the inside of his cheek to keep himself from laughing.
"So you're still easy to rile up?" He asks, smirking.
"Wh- you-" Eddie gasps. He tries to sit up again, grunting when he flops back down. "You were trying to make me jealous?!"
He's looking at Steve with disbelief, but he's also smiling.
"Are we friends now?" Steve asks.
"Yeah, Stevie. We're friends."
"Just friends?"
"I don't... Steve, how bad is your amnesia?"
Steve quickly looks away, wincing. "Not... that bad? I remember that- the first time. This, um... monster shit. Falling out with Tommy. And the doctors are optimistic- they're pretty sure I'm going to remember."
"Alright... maybe it'd be better if we talk then, instead of rushing into it now."
"Jesus," Steve frowns. "I really have missed a lot. When did you get mature?"
"Hey-"
#stranger things#steve harrington#eddie munson#steddie#robin buckley#platonic with a capital p#steddie fic#ficlet#hurtcomfort
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iâll drown it out
for @steddiesongfics using the song âghost of youâ by 5 seconds of summer
rated m | 2295 words | cw: temporary character death, injury, angst | tags: established relationship, secret relationship, wayne munson is a gift, happy ending, grief and mourning, alternate ending to season 4
đđđđđđđđđđđ
steve wakes up every day to eddieâs face.
itâs the only picture of eddie that wayne doesnât have in his apartment two hours away.
he doesnât even think anyone knows itâs framed on his bedside table next to one of eddieâs rings and his guitar pick necklace.
all thatâs left of eddie munson is whatever memories these items hold.
steve knows itâs dumb to hold onto things that belong to the people who cared most for eddie when he was alive. if dustin knew he had his necklace, heâd lose his shit.
but wayne knew he needed it, knew way more about their situation than he ever let on before eddie was- well, before he was gone.
steve blinks his eyes, adjusting to the sunlight sneaking through the curtains. he has the day off, but wayneâs coming by for lunch, so he should get up and shower.
he puts the ring on his finger, the necklace around his neck, and heads to the bathroom.
he goes through the motions, same as any other day.
he gets off in the shower, thinks about eddieâs hand around his neck while he fucks him from behind. doesnât cry until heâs washed all the evidence of his own thoughts away.
he brushes his teeth and styles his hair, though he doesnât put as much product in it anymore. robin says itâs causing hair loss. he doesnât have the heart to tell her itâs probably the mourning of the love of his life.
he hasnât told her about what eddie was to him at all.
he doesnât think he can yet. or ever.
he goes downstairs and tidies up as much as he can. itâs not that messy, really. a dish in the sink from last night, his laundry basket full of clean clothes sitting on the couch ready to fold and put away, an empty beer can on the counter that never made it to the recycling bin.
he turns on the stereo to have some noise, to drown out the thought of eddie trying to make a trick shot off the trash can and making it. saying something like âbet i couldâve made the team with moves like that, huh, baby?â
he bites his lip and takes a shaky breath.
when wayne is here, itâs easier. they catch up on things. steve hears about wayneâs job at the mechanic shop and the woman heâs been seeing. steve tells him about the kids and robin, the new movies coming out that look decent.
they talk about eddie. that part is harder, but itâs not bad. steve gets to be open and honest with wayne in ways he canât be with anyone else and wayne gets to talk about the only family he cared about. itâs nice.
but when wayne leaves, everything feels worse for a bit. heâd never tell wayne that, but itâs true.
for days after, heâs left in a cycle of anger, depression, grief, and jealousy. he ignores everyone and everything as much as he can. he wears eddieâs vest to sleep, to work, around the house. he cries as much as he doesnât.
robinâs caught him once, when he was crying on the kitchen floor. the dinner he was making was burning. he brushed it off, said he just felt overwhelmed with his parents leaving him the house and having to volunteer. said he was so tired and just needed a break.
she believed him and worked his shift the next day, which gave him the chance to cry in bed and then get over himself.
he doesnât realize how long heâs been sitting on the couch staring into space until wayneâs ringing the doorbell. steve jumps up and shuts off the music, ignoring the pang in his chest at realizing the tapes had changed to a Metallica one at some point.
everything is great. heâs smiling and laughing at wayne explaining the suburban mom dragging her two kids into the shop to explain what they did to her gas tank and making them help fix it. heâs nodding along as wayne talks about bringing faye to a nice restaurant in Indy for their anniversary next month.
and then things derail.
âsometimes i wish you could meet someone like faye. makes you forget about all the bad parts of life.â
steve knows he doesnât mean he forgets eddie, but thatâs what steveâs fragile heart hears anyway.
âi wouldnât want someone to make me forget. i donât want anyone except eddie.â
wayne looks at him like his heartâs breaking for him, but he doesnât say anything.
at least not until steve starts cleaning up their lunch dishes.
his hand wraps around steveâs wrist as he speaks.
âeddie wouldnât want ya to be lonely, steve. you canât be happy with a ghost.â
and thatâs just it.
heâs not trying to be happy with a ghost. he knows itâs impossible.
heâs just trying to survive with what he has left.
itâs a difference he knows he canât explain, especially not to wayne.
so he smiles, nods, and continues with his cleaning while wayne thankfully changes the subject.
one year without eddie down. a lifetime to go.
****
year two is harder, despite everyone saying it gets easier over time.
it gets harder because he canât explain why he still changes the station when ozzy plays on the radio. itâs harder because the nightmares get worse. itâs hard because waking up to a picture of eddie is cold, and no amount of sweaters and blankets can help him feel warm.
robin figures it out in march of that year.
steve doesnât notice the date at first, not until dustin calls and asks if he wants to go visit eddieâs grave. he turns it down, says he has to work. itâs the truth, but he knows robin would have covered for him if he asked.
when he shows up to work, dark circles under his eyes, hair limp, robin tugs him to the floor behind the counter.
she pulls the chain of his necklace out of steveâs shirt.
tears spring up in her eyes.
they sit wordlessly for what feels like hours, but couldâve only been a few minutes. the door beeps when someone comes in and robin stands on shaky legs to assist. it gives steve an extra few minutes to get himself together.
she comes over after work and steve tells her everything. he doesnât even cry until the end.
but he doesnât stop crying for hours. and itâs really hours this time.
robin holds him, and he cries.
****
years three and four flew by.
especially when the kids graduated.
they arenât kids anymore and all of them will be off to college in the fall.
after the ceremony, steve stops by eddieâs grave, something he doesnât usually do in broad daylight. not because heâs ashamed or even scared, but because he knows seeing the reflection of his name on the headstone in the sunlight will send him into a grief-stricken spiral that he doesnât have time for most days.
he sits with his back against the headstone, pretends itâs eddieâs chest and theyâre just in steveâs bed, shooting the shit after making each other see stars.
âyouâd be proud of them. theyâre all off to do cool shit. nerd shit.â steve leans his head back and looks up at the clouds. âstuff youâd probably get a lot better than me. dustin tried explaining his major to me and i think i blacked out.â
he gulps, feels a sob building in his chest.
âi miss you. you should be here.â
he stays for a while after that, staring up at the sky and hoping that if a tear falls from his face, it at least waters the flowers growing under him.
he gets up eventually, because he has to get the gifts he got for everyone and head to their joint graduation party. joyce asked him to come early so he could help hop with setting up the bonfire.
âiâll try to stop by again soon. donât forget about me.â
steve walks away feeling heavier.
****
year five is when shit hits the fan.
robin transfers to a university in chicago and the kids are gone and joyce and hopper decide to travel since all the kids have gone and steve just stays.
wayne and faye get married after years of back and forth on it. wayne wants to, but faye thinks theyâre fine without all the âhullabalooâ of a wedding. they compromise on having a small gathering at the courthouse, steve and fayeâs two sons as witnesses. they all go out to lunch after.
itâs nice.
steve goes home to his empty house, and stares at the picture of eddie.
he doesnât know the last time he really looked at this picture. he sees it every day when he wakes up, when he goes to bed. but itâs quick, and heâs half asleep.
as he stares at it now, he sees that thereâs a hole near eddieâs stomach. itâs not a burn mark, but it might as well be.
and steve knows for a fucking fact it wasnât there when he framed the picture.
weird shit happens in hawkins. thatâs a fact.
but weird shit hasnât happened in five years, not since eddie died to make sure weird shit didnât keep happening.
this is weird shit.
he holds the frame in his hand. itâs not broken. it looks brand new, actually.
but the hole is there nonetheless.
with trembling hands, steve removes the picture from the frame. he thinks heâs seen where professionals can repair minor damage to photographs, but itâs probably not easy to find someone he can trust. not with this.
the hole is exactly where eddieâs wounds were the worst.
thatâs just a coincidence, surely.
he brushes his fingertips across eddieâs beaming face, then the hole in the picture.
his side aches, deeply, like when the bats dug their teeth into him and tried to take him before they knew what they were dealing with.
the air feels thick, his chest feels weighted, and then darkness wraps him up in a thick blanket.
the picture falls from his grip as he loses consciousness.
****
âcâmon big boy. stay with me.â
steve blinks his eyes open and immediately wishes that heâd pass out again.
the pain is like nothing heâs felt before, all encompassing, lightning in every nerve-ending.
âsh, sh, sweetheart. itâs okay. weâre getting you help.â
steve can only whimper in response as he feels an explosion of pain in his side.
âis he breathing?â another voice is nearby, but steve canât tell who it is.
âhas the bleeding stopped?â thatâs nancy. sheâs much closer than the other voice.
he thinks hands are on him, but heâs starting to go blissfully numb.
âsteve, open your eyes. weâre almost there.â
itâs eddie. of course itâs eddie.
his big eyes are watery, scared. steve doesnât like when heâs upset.
he uses everything he has to grab the hand against his side. eddieâs rings are cold, almost a relief against the heat of his own skin.
âglad itâs me, not you,â he manages to say.
and he is.
because he knows that if eddie was the one who died, heâd never make it through.
****
steve hates waking up to noise. heâs told robin a million times to turn off her damn alarm when she stays over.
he blinks his eyes open slowly.
oh.
thatâs not robinâs alarm. thatâs the heart monitor next to him.
the heart monitor thatâs hooked up to him.
he feels a tug in his side and realizes heâs being held together by stitches and a familiar weight on his arm.
eddieâs asleep on his arm.
not dead. not injured.
maybe a little grimy.
but alive.
steve canât contain the sob he lets out.
it wakes eddie up. heâs never been a heavy sleeper, even when he was exhausted.
âstevie?â
another sob escapes steve. he feels like heâs missed eddie for years, feels like every moment heâs been without eddie passed at a snailâs pace and every second was filled with loneliness.
âyouâre okay,â steve rasps out as tears fall down his cheeks, his neck, into his greasy hair.
âiâm okay?! youâre okay!â eddie is squeezing his arm and it hurts, but steve doesnât care. he doesnât want eddie to ever stop touching him, even if it hurts. âyou almost died! i had control over the situation! what happened to not being heroes?â
steveâs smiling. it hurts to smile. eddieâs loud and his ears are ringing.
he doesnât care. heâs alive. eddieâs alive.
âstevie? can you hear me?â
âhard not to, honey.â
eddieâs quiet for long enough that steve worries he dreamt him up. it wouldnât be the first time. or maybe it would be. was any of that real? being without eddie?
âsorry. am i being loud?â eddie whispers and itâs good. everythingâs good.
because eddie is here. steve is in pain, but eddie is here. this is real. itâs not a dream or his imagination or a delusion.
âa little.â
âsorry, baby. you scared me.â
âyou scared me first.â
steve feels the pull of exhaustion, and he knows whatever is pumping through the needle in his arm is going to knock him back out within a matter of minutes.
âi protected dustin.â
âand i protected you.â
eddie huffs something between a laugh and a sigh. steveâs eyes are closed, but he can picture eddieâs face so clearly.
âyouâre gonna owe me a million kisses when you can stay awake for longer than two minutes,â eddie says quietly.
steve smiles.
heâs pretty sure he wonât be able to keep his lips off him now that he knows he doesnât have to live with the ghost of him.
#steddie#steve harrington#eddie munson#stranger things#steddie events#steddiesongfics#angst with a happy ending#temporary character death#secret relationship#wayne munson
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