#chrissy Cunningham x eddie munson | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

dwobbitfromtheshire · 18 hours ago

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When Steve invited Nancy, Jonathan, Argyle, Robin, Vickie, Eddie, and Chrissy over for New Years, he really didn't think it through. They were all coupled together, and Steve wasn't. Even Argyle brought his current lover to the party. Steve had quickly disappeared into the kitchen and cursed.

"You're so fucking stupid, Steve," he told himself.

Sure, he was happy by himself, but he also liked romance. . .he liked being with people, especially with people he cared about. The dating game had been depressing for him since spring break. The minute he took off his shirt, suddenly, they needed to leave. He even thought he got lucky once when he almost hooked up with a guy. Steve had taken off his shirt, and the guy looked at his scars, softly said "ew" before making an excuse to leave. It had been quite hurtful, so Steve just decided to stop trying, and he hated it because while he was happy that he had his friends, his family, he was also lonely. He loved spending time with Eddie and Chrissy, too, but they just reminded him that he didn't have a partner. Steve couldn't decide which one of them he was jealous of.

"Hey, big boy," he heard Eddie's voice.

Steve turned around to find Eddie and Chrissy standing in the doorway of the kitchen.

"Are you alright, Steve?" Chrissy asked.

"Uh, yeah. . .I just really didn't think this through," Steve said. "I don't have anyone to kiss at midnight."

"Well, hell, I'll kiss you," Eddie said, waving his hand at him.

"What about Chrissy? She won't have someone to kiss," Steve said.

"Shit, yeah, that's true," Eddie frowned.

"We'll both kiss you!" Chrissy exclaimed rather cheerfully.

"How?!" Steve and Eddie asked.

"Well, Eddie will take one corner of your mouth, and I'll take the other," Chrissy said.

"It could work," Steve said thoughtfully and then tried to make a joke. "Yeah, okay, but don't go falling in love with me. . ."

Eddie and Chrissy shared looks of amusement before looking back at Steve.

"Too late," they said.

"What?" He asked.

"Oh, come on, I thought we were obvious," Eddie scoffed.

"We did keep inviting you out on our dates, and we kept asking you if you wanted a sleepover," Chrissy said. "And then you stopped hanging out with us for a while."

"Yeah, we assumed you weren't interested," Eddie shrugged.

"But I - I thought I was getting in between your relationship with Chrissy," Steve said.

"That's exactly what we wanted, sweetheart," Eddie said.

"But - I, uh, - both. . .at the same time? I never thought - ," Steve said, and he ran a hand through his hand. "I didn't know which one to choose, and I never thought I could choose both."

"There's nothing stopping you," Chrissy said as they moved closer to him.

They stood on either side of him, basically locking him in.

"My dating skills might be a little rusty," Steve blushed. "It's been pretty disastrous over the last few months. No one's really wanted to look at me, let alone touch me. One guy went literally went ew when he saw my scars."

"And you think Chrissy and I know what we're doing? I haven't dated anyone, and the last relationship Chrissy was in was arranged by her mother. We're all figuring things out," Eddie said, and then what Steve had said sunk in. "Wait. . .what guy said ew to you?"

"It doesn't matter," Steve said, blushing as Eddie wrapped a comforting around his shoulder.

"Give me a name, Steven," he said softly. "I'm just going to talk to the guy."

"Yeah, but I feel like you're not going to use your words," Steve said frowning.

"You can't kill him, Eddie," Chrissy giggled.

"And why can't I?" He asked.

"Because you just got off the murder charges over spring break, I don't want you to go to jail," Chrissy said.

"Oh, so, when I want to kill a guy, I have to stand down, but when I tell you not to kill a guy, I'm supposed to just let you pout about it for a month," Eddie said and waved his hand at her. "Ah, double standard."

Eddie flashed his dimples at Chrissy as she laughed.

"Who did you want to kill?" Steve asked.

"Andy," Chrissy said.

She started playing with the buttons on Steve’s collar. He had his button-up done all the way up to hide the scars around his throat.

"You should have just let her kill him," Steve said.

"Yeah, well, I think it's a possibility. I think she might be scheming with Nancy," Eddie said.

"I am," Chrissy said with a giggled.

All of her focus was now on Steve’s shirt. She was popping it open one by one, and Steve didn't stop her from going all the way down. . .curious at what they would say. Finally, Chrissy had it opened, exposing his torso and his scars. Her fingers trailed down from the scar around his throat to the scars on his lower abdomen.

"You're beautiful inside and out, Steve," Eddie breathed, tucking a hair behind his ear. "I think you forget that I have scars too."

He grabbed Steve’s hand and brought it underneath his shirt, letting Steve feel it. Chrissy brought her lips to Steve’s throat, kissing his scars gently. Eddie did the same, burying his head into Steve’s neck. Steve’s eyes fluttered, and he moaned as Eddie's hand went to the scars on his stomach. . .right above the belt. God, it felt like he was being devoured. . .in a good way, though.

"Shouldn't we save the kissing for midnight?" Steve gasped as Chrissy nibbled at his skin.

"That's only for the lips," Eddie whispered. "Doesn't mean we can't kiss you anywhere else. . .big boy."

"Hey!" They heard Robin yell. "You're going to miss the ball dropping!"

Steve hurried to button his shirt up and tuck it back into his pants as he rushed back into the living room after the others.

"You missed a button," Robin said in amusement and then grinned. "Slut."

"Definitely," Steve laughed.

"Chrissy's lipstick is all over your neck," Robin said and then looked over at Eddie. "And if Eddie was wearing lipstick?"

"It would be there, too," Steve blushed.

"Happy for you, dingus," Robin said.

"You're about the miss the ball dropping, Robin," he said.

"Oh, right!"

3. . .2. . .1!

Eddie and Chrissy kissed Steve on the corners of his mouth just like they said they would. It was so soft. . .so gentle. . .so perfect.

"Happy New Year," Eddie and Chrissy said, taking his hands in theirs.

"Happy New Year," Steve whispered, a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes.

He had been happy before, but he was happier now, and maybe it had something to do with being wanted twice. . .not just for his body, but for who he is. Yeah, a Happy New Year, indeed.

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spacebabesuki · 17 hours ago

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Midnight Love — Hellcheer New Year's Eve

Eddie Munson was officially on the verge of a meltdown. He was leaning against the corner of Steve Harrington’s living room, gripping a red plastic cup filled with drink as the chaos of the New Year's Eve party swirled around him.

The loud music, the laughter, and the chatter filled the air, along with the sparkle of flashing lights, confetti on the floor, and balloons hanging from gold and silver curtains that seemed to float.

But for Eddie, all of that was just a blur. Because, right there, on the other side of the room, was Chrissy Cunningham.

She was wearing a short light pink dress that seemed to glow with its own magic under the twinkling lights. Her blonde-red hair fell in soft waves, ending in perfectly defined curls that resembled honey springs. Her eyes sparkled with a shimmering gleam, and her flushed cheeks seemed almost to match her lips, pink and inviting, glistening with a shine that left him breathless.

Eddie felt that every time he looked at her, Chrissy became even more beautiful, and the effect was almost suffocating.

"You’re pale." Robin’s familiar voice snapped him out of his trance. She appeared at his side, grinning conspiratorially. "Like, really pale. I can see the drool dripping, Munson. If I were her, I would’ve already filed for a restraining order."

"You scared the hell out of me!" he clutched his chest, terrified of being caught in the act. "What are you talking about?" Eddie tried to cover up, looking away, but his hands were shaking so badly that he almost spilled the beer in his red cup.

Robin gave him a knowing, sarcastic look, as if to say "seriously?"

He sighed, defeated. "Is it that obvious?"

"As clear as day. And embarrassing as hell, too, Munson." Robin laughed, rolling her eyes before nudging him with her elbow.

"Damn it." Eddie scratched his face, feeling the weight of embarrassment.

He didn’t even know why he had come to this party. He was invited because, over the last year, he had gotten closer to everyone thanks to the "kid" — aka Dustin — and because Robin was his coworker at the video store. But, above all, it was because he knew Chrissy would be here. He’d gotten that information out of Robin, of course, but she wasn’t stupid — not as stupid as him, at least.

"Every time she shows up at the video store, you act like the Tasmanian Devil from Looney Tunes. I can practically picture you spinning around like a complete idiot. It’s embarrassing, but…" Robin paused dramatically.

"Fuck it. I don’t know what I’m doing here. I don’t know what I was thinking."

Nervously, Eddie dropped the red cup aimlessly, trying to turn and leave, desperate, embarrassed, terrified Chrissy had already noticed and thought he was an idiot, just like Robin probably thought. After all, Robin knew girls like no one else... oh, how well she knew them.

"I’m outta here."

Just coming here and looking at her was enough... at least he’d have something to dream about tonight.

"Hey, dumbass, get back here!" Robin yanked him back by the arm, laughing. "I was just about to say that it’s actually kinda cute."

Eddie stopped dead in his tracks, completely thrown off. He’d never imagined anyone could think that about him—especially in the context of Chrissy Cunningham. Him, Eddie Munson, the most unlikely guy in town, thinking he had a shot with Chrissy? He had even gone so far as to steal a black shirt from Uncle Wayne and try to fix his hair. He’d left half of his rings at home just to look more presentable. But who was he fooling? Nothing would ever be enough for him to be good enough for Chrissy.

"Oh, shit. Fuck it. So what? It’s Chrissy Cunningham. As if... ah, fuck it."

He gestured nervously, disturbed, while Robin laughed at his state. It was stupid, but cute. She’d known since the first day she met him that there were only two things running through Eddie Munson’s dumb mind: Metallica and Chrissy Cunningham.

"Why are men so dumb?" Robin commented, her voice raspy from the alcohol, but still carrying a smile. "Eddie, I always knew you were stupid, but damn, you’re even dumber than I thought."

"Am I?" He frowned.

"Dude, she broke up with Jason Carver because of you. Nine months ago, when you helped her in that forest. After that, she goes to the video store four times a week. Know who else does that? No one." Robin crossed her arms, exasperated. "I thought she kept coming back because you're an idiot who doesn't even blink around her, giving her all the tapes for free and ending up broke at the end of the month. But last year? She only went there once. Now, suddenly, she's a loyal customer? And what else does she do there, besides giving you those little smiles for the dumb shit you say? I think she doesn't even have any more movies to rent, but she keeps coming back.

Eddie blinked, even more confused. Robin continued.

"She invited you to a basketball game, and you didn’t go, but you were staring through the window like a freak. And you really think she doesn’t like you? Are you really that stupid? Are you really that much of an idiot? I was confused too at first, wondering what kind of shit this girl has in her brain to be interested in a dumbass like you, but apparently..."

Eddie blinked, Robin's words slowly starting to sink in.

"That doesn’t mean anything. It’s... it’s Chrissy Cunningham, for fuck's sake!" He took the cup to his lips and downed the rest of the drink in one gulp. "She literally dated Jason Carver, the guy who gets everything in life. And I’m..." He gestured to himself, as if that would explain everything.

“You’re Eddie Munson, and that’s why she likes you. Why? I have no idea, honestly. But now you’re going to go talk to her before I push you over there.” Robin crossed her arms, challenging him.

Eddie started shaking his head, the nervous tremor growing.

“No, are you crazy? I’m not going over there. No way.” He looked around, searching for an escape route.

“You need to rip off the Band-Aid already,” Robin insisted, pointing to Chrissy on the other side of the room.

“This isn’t ripping off a Band-Aid, Robin!” Eddie exclaimed, gesturing frantically. “It’s like sticking a damn stake in me! Impaling me in public! No, I’m not going. If I do... she’ll never look at me again.”

“Or maybe she’ll look at you every single day... or kiss that stupid face of yours every single day. Ever thought about that?” Robin raised an eyebrow, teasing him.

For a brief moment, Eddie lost himself in the idea, but quickly shook his head, as if trying to shake the thought out of his mind.

“No, no way. She’s like... Aphrodite, and I’m... I don’t know, the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. I’m not going over there. I’m not falling for your delusional girl talk. I know what’s up. You just want to humiliate me so you can laugh at me later, don’t you?”

Robin rolled her eyes dramatically, trying to hold onto her patience.

“Fine, idiot. Stay here, don’t listen to me, and let that asshole Brian Slagel steal her from you just because you’re too much of a coward to do anything.”

Robin pointed with her chin toward Brian, who was clearly eyeing Chrissy and making suggestive gestures as his friends laughed.

Eddie froze. His chest tightened, the same feeling he'd had for years, ever since the middle school talent show, when he’d wanted to die every time he saw Chrissy in the halls with Jason Carver. And then she broke up with Jason, and Eddie was sure that was the happiest day of his life... but now... shit, another rich, asshole jock was already eyeing her.

Of course, someone like Brian Slagel would be eyeing Chrissy too. Everyone would. Why wouldn’t they? She was perfect, untouchable. Eddie knew that. Of course, there was a line of guys waiting for her, and he was at the very end of that line—if he was even on the list at all. Maybe, in an apocalyptic scenario, or if they were the last two survivors on a deserted island, she might pick him. That was the kind of thought he let slip in his more fantastical daydreams.

"This girl is crazy about you, Eddie. Really crazy. Want to bet? Twenty bucks that, if you go talk to her now, she'll be giving you all those little smiles." Robin stared at him seriously. "Go, now. Take the chance while she's alone. She's out of place, don’t you notice? She doesn’t know anyone here except us. And you’re just standing here, letting her be alone."

"She came because you invited her!" Eddie shot back defensively, as if that was an argument that could win him any points.

"I invited her to help you, you idiot!" Robin threw her hands up in exasperation. "I couldn’t stand her coming to the video store every day, hanging around for an hour just listening to your nonsense and pretending to be interested in your crappy recommendations, waiting for you to grow the balls to ask her out. Eddie, she’s the most popular girl in Hawkins. She could be at any New Year’s party, one of those fancy ones we’d only get into if we threatened someone. But she’s here. She came here, even though she doesn’t know almost anyone, just because she knew you’d be here. She came because of you, you’re an idiot, don’t you get it? And now, you’re just going to leave her there, all alone, and not even talk to her?"

Eddie felt the weight of Robin's words. Maybe she was right. Maybe Chrissy really had come because of him. And maybe... just maybe... he wasn’t as unlikely as he thought.

Eddie stared at the space between him and Chrissy as if it were an impossible chasm to cross. She was there, alone, and for a moment, it felt like the entire world had stopped. But before he could make a decision—or come up with an excuse to run—Robin shoved him hard, pulling him out of his stupor.

"Go! Go over there and say your nonsense to her and make her smile!" Robin said, her patience already running thin. "She's been looking at you all night, you idiot!"

Robin knew girls. He didn’t. Still, he was too insecure to believe he stood a chance.

"What do I do? What do I say, fuck?" Eddie whispered to himself, panic rising and mixing with the heat of the room.

He tried to turn back, but Robin shoved him again, this time with more force, drawing the attention of the entire party. Including Chrissy’s.

"Ah, fuck." Eddie froze. Chrissy was looking directly at him. And, to his total disbelief, she smiled. "What do I say?" he yelled at Robin, desperate.

It wasn’t a smile that said she was laughing at his ridiculousness—it was a shy, almost sweet smile.

She waved at him, a shy, embarrassed wave, as if saying, "Hey, come talk to me, please." And for a moment, Eddie forgot how to breathe. He almost dropped his cup.

"HA, I told you! Go, you idiot, go now, it’s the perfect chance. No girl likes being alone on New Year’s, go. Just tell her she looks pretty and it’ll work, just go, trust me," Robin said with one last shove.

Trust her? Fuck, he was going to die.

When Eddie finally got close to her, he stopped, as breathless as if he had run a marathon.

"Hi, Eddie," Chrissy said, with a smile that seemed to light up the room. Her voice was soft, almost musical, and he felt even more dizzy. She was so close now, and her sweet scent seemed to envelop him, making him lightheaded.

Up close, everything about her was even more mesmerizing. The shimmer of her makeup highlighted her eyes, and her rosy lips gleamed under the colorful lights of the party. He had never seen her look so beautiful, and for a moment, he thought he might just pass out right there. Or maybe lie down on the floor and serve as a carpet for her to walk on, because honestly, he didn’t think he deserved much more than that.

He tried to say something, but the fingers holding his cup were trembling so much that he had to switch hands to keep from spilling everything.

Eddie opened his mouth, but no words came out. He was lost in her smile, the tiny freckles almost invisible in the soft light, the way her hair shone like it was made of gold. And for a moment, he forgot all his fear, because at that moment, only Chrissy Cunningham existed.

Looking like an absolute idiot, paralyzed, she noticed, seeing him pale and unblinking.

Chrissy tilted her head, still smiling, and asked gently:

"Are you okay?"

Okay, just tell her she’s pretty, tell her she’s pretty. Eddie sighed, thinking to himself, panicking.

"H-Hey," he scratched the back of his neck, nervous, before blurting out: "You... you look... really pretty today... I mean, not just today, like, every... every day, and..."

Chrissy blushed and gave him those little smiles she always gave when she was near him, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him.

"Thank you," she bit her lip, a little shy. "You look... nice too... yeah, handsome."

She smiled, turning red, and he realized that she seemed nervous too, and fuck, that almost killed him.

"The shirt... I like it." She pointed at his black shirt, all shy, awkward.

He looked at his own shirt, which seemed too simple compared to the shine of her dress, but the comment was enough to make him stumble over his words. Not believing it. Not believing that she was actually nervous around him.

She was like a goddess. He couldn't imagine touching her, touching that dress. His hands weren’t worthy.

"Ah, thanks! It’s... new. I mean, from my uncle... and..." He nervously laughed, scratching his face again, feeling like he was about to explode. He didn’t know what the hell to say.

Chrissy laughed, the sweet sound calming some of his nerves.

Robin laughed, shaking her head, watching the two of them in the corner of the party, alone and awkward.

“What are you looking at?” Nancy appeared.

“Look, Chrissy and Eddie” Robin pointed. “It’s so cute. Only they don’t realize how in love they are, it’s almost nauseating.

Eddie cleared his throat, trying to shake off the lump in his throat. He had never been so aware of every move, every word. But something about the way Chrissy smiled at him—shy and a little nervous—gave him a strange courage he didn’t know where it was coming from.

"So…" He gestured with the cup in his hand, almost spilling the drink in the process. "S-So, did you like the last movies you picked up from the video store? I mean, I know most of them were a bunch of my recommendations, and I… um, I kind of have a peculiar taste, you know. But, yeah, you… did you like them?"

Chrissy tilted her head, smiling so sweetly that he almost melted right there.

"I did!" she replied, her eyes sparkling. "Actually, I'd already seen E.T., but it was so good to watch it again. And that other one, the horror movie… Night of the Living Dead, right? It was… scary, but… fun? You were right, I think I'm starting to like these weird movies." She laughed, biting her lip as if apologizing. "I think it’s your fault."

Eddie opened his mouth, surprised, but quickly composed himself, trying to hide the idiot grin that threatened to take over his face.

"Oh, me? My fault?" He placed a hand on his chest, feigning indignation. "Look, I won’t accept complaints about good taste in movies, okay? If you’re liking them, it’s because, obviously, you’ve got a great mentor."

Chrissy laughed again, a sound so light and contagious that he felt his chest warm up. She looked away for a moment, her hands fidgeting with the hem of her dress as if needing something to occupy her fingers.

"Well, I think you’ve got a point…" She looked back at him, kind of from below, still a little shy, but with something different in her eyes—a subtle confidence he’d never noticed before. "But… it’s not just that. It’s fun listening to you talk about the things you like, you know? You always seem so… passionate about everything. I think that's really cool."

Eddie blinked, his throat closing up again. Passionate? She thinks I’m passionate? Fuck, she has no idea…

"Uh, well…" He scratched the back of his neck again, nervous, but this time a laugh slipped out. "I talk too much, huh? Sometimes I think I’m gonna get banned from the video store because people are gonna start running away from me."

Chrissy shook her head quickly, her golden curls bouncing along with the movement.

"No, I like it. It's one of the best parts of my day," she said it so softly it almost felt like a secret, and her face turned even redder.

Eddie felt his legs weaken, as if she had just delivered a critical blow to him. He forced himself to say something before he truly passed out from the intensity of it all.

"Well, it's… good that you like it, because I'm definitely not stopping talking about my nerdy stuff anytime soon. Like, if you want, I can even make a list of recommendations for you. I think I’ve got, like, twenty ideas right now."

Chrissy laughed again, this time putting her hand over her mouth, as if trying to contain the sound. Her gaze was bright, her blue eyes fixed on his, and she leaned her body a little closer.

"Twenty? All that?" she teased, her lips curving into a genuine smile. "I guess I'll have to go to the video store more often then."

"More than you already do?" Eddie replied before he thought, then turned bright red when he realized what he'd said. "I mean… not that I'm keeping count or anything! Just… just saying you're already, like, number one customer, right? And, well… that's cool. Or, or I could start watching with you and… save you some money and…"

Jesus, he didn’t even know what he was saying anymore. He just wanted to die from embarrassment.

Chrissy looked at him with that soft, affectionate smile and gently shook her head.

"It’s cool, yeah. And I… I’d love to," she said quietly, almost killing him. After a moment of nervous silence, she tilted her head again, a curious look in her eyes. "And you? Are you enjoying the party?"

Eddie opened his mouth to answer, but stopped, feeling his heart race. He knew the answer, but saying it out loud was another thing. He took a deep breath and risked it.

"Now?" He looked directly at her, feeling the nervousness recede for just a moment. "Now it's perfect."

Chrissy blushed even more, her shy smile returning, and the two of them stood there, in the corner of the party, just smiling at each other, as if the rest of the world had disappeared.

"I think I owe you a million bucks," she laughed. "For all the movies you gave me for free. Does your boss… does he not complain about it?"

Eddie never let her pay. Even when she tried to sneak money into his hand and run out, afraid he'd get into trouble, he'd just slip the money into the bag and not let her pay. And she’d smile when she got home.

Sometimes, he’d write on the receipt: "Just a gift, Cunningham, accept it."

And yeah, sure, he got in trouble with the boss and lost half his paycheck, but he didn’t care. He’d do anything just to get those little smiles from her.

Eddie scratched the back of his neck, his gaze fixed on Chrissy as she gently swayed, still shy. The silence between them was heavy, but at the same time soft, as if something was about to happen. They were both blushing, looking away and then back at each other, caught in that strange but sweet tension.

He broke the silence, wanting more time with her.

"You... um, do you want something to drink? What are you drinking?" he finally managed to say, his eyes drifting to the cup she was holding with delicate fingers, adorned with a golden heart bracelet that sparkled under the lights. Her nails were perfect, painted with shiny polish, and he couldn't help but notice.

Chrissy looked at her almost empty cup, smiling shyly. "Oh, it's punch..."

"Do you want... do you want me to get you more?" Eddie asked quickly, pointing to the cup.

She nodded, her shy smile growing, and handed the cup to him. When he took it, their fingers almost touched, hers lightly brushing against his for a moment.

Eddie felt a shiver run up his arm, like a little electric shock.

"Thanks, Eddie," she said softly, swaying slightly as she smiled in that way that seemed to light up everything around her.

Eddie stumbled as he walked away, moving backward and almost spilling his own drink. He glanced at her quickly before turning forward, his heart racing. Why was the touch of her finger enough to make him feel this way? He took a deep breath and went to the table, filling her cup with punch, but his mind was still stuck on that sweet little laugh she let out when he tripped.

From a distance, he could see her laughing softly, her shoulders rising and falling as she watched him. That laugh made him want to throw himself on the floor just to hear her laugh like that all the time.

Eddie came back with the cup, his hands still shaking from nerves. Chrissy was still there, swaying side to side, her eyes downcast, and her cheeks flushed with a red that made him feel like his heart might stop at any second. He still couldn’t believe she hadn’t run off while he was gone.

"Here," he said, handing her the cup carefully, but a little punch spilled out and stained her hand. "Ah, damn, sorry! My bad, really sorry!"

Chrissy laughed softly, shaking her head. "It’s okay, Eddie, seriously."

But he couldn't let it go. "No, wait!" He ran back to the table, grabbing some napkins and returning to clean her hand. "Just... just a second, I’ll clean it!" He began to wipe her hand, his fingers lightly brushing hers in a way that felt almost reverent, like she was made of glass. The care he took, the attention to every movement, made her blush even more.

"All done," he finally said, lifting his gaze to her with a nervous smile, his ears red. "I couldn’t let you stain your pretty dress, so..." he said, his gaze never leaving her, as if trying to convey more than just the words.

"Thanks," Chrissy replied quietly, her eyes sparkling. She was holding the cup, but she seemed more focused on him than the drink.

For a moment, the two of them stood there, side by side, the silence between them filled only by the distant sound of music and the lively voices of the party. He leaned in slightly, trying to appear more casual than he felt.

"Are you enjoying the party?" he asked, trying to break the ice, though his heart was still pounding.

"Yeah..." Chrissy replied, swaying lightly, her pretty dress shimmering under the lights of the room. "But... not that much."

"Why?"

Eddie furrowed his brow, curious, with the fear that he might be the reason the party wasn’t going well for her.

Chrissy hesitated, biting her lower lip nervously. But something in his gaze – the look that seemed to truly see her, that made her feel special in a way no one else ever had – encouraged her to continue.

"It’s just... I don’t know almost anyone here," she started, laughing quietly, embarrassed. "And also..." She blushed even more, lowering her eyes before finishing, "It's the first time I don’t have anyone to kiss at midnight, so..."

The words came out as a nervous whisper, but Eddie heard them clearly. Kiss? He felt his stomach churn. For a moment, his mind flew to Brian Slagel, wondering if he was the guy Chrissy wanted to kiss at midnight.

But then, she looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with something different—shyness mixed with anticipation.

"I… I can keep you company, if you want," he stammered, his voice shaky, the words slipping out before he had time to think. He completely ignored the kiss part, because, seriously, what were the chances she was hitting on him?

But then she smiled. A smile so big, so beautiful, that it seemed to light up her whole face. He thought he might just collapse right there.

"I’d love that," Chrissy replied, her voice so sweet it could’ve been honey.

Before Eddie could say anything else, the energy of the party shifted. People began rushing toward the door, animated conversations echoing as everyone prepared for the countdown.

23:56. Four minutes to midnight. Couples gathered, eagerly awaiting the New Year’s kiss.

"Do you… do you want to go outside?" Chrissy asked, her voice soft, almost hesitant. She bit her lip, anxious, her fingers gripping her cup tightly as she waited for his response.

Eddie just nodded, unable to form any words. He followed her outside, still trying to believe that this was really happening.

As they walked toward the door, Chrissy looked at Eddie in a way he had never noticed before, but that had always been there. Her eyes glimmered with something more than the light reflected from the New Year’s decorations. It was a warm, passionate glow that made her gaze feel like he was the only person in the world.

She smiled to herself, gently biting her lip to hide her nervousness, but it was impossible to disguise how happy she was to be with him. Her eyes danced over his details: the messy hair, the nervous smile, the awkward way he still held the empty cup. She knew he was nervous, and that only made him more perfect.

He’s so handsome, and he’s even more so tonight. She had never seen him in a shirt like this before, and the way it fit him—his strong shoulders seemed even more defined, the sleeves rolled up, the tattoos peeking out, the belt, the white sneakers, the rings—all of it was still there. And then there was his smile, the most beautiful smile. But the truth was, she had been in love with him since that day in the woods, the way he made her laugh, and that feeling—just being near him—made her breathless no matter what.

Every little thing about him felt like it was part of the reason her heart raced. It wasn’t just the way he looked or dressed, but the way he made her feel. The way he was so real, so imperfectly perfect. The way he was nervous, how he couldn’t seem to keep his hands still, but that was what made him so genuine.

She could feel her pulse quicken just being around him, as if every glance and every word exchanged was another step closer to something she had been wanting for so long.

Chrissy walked close, so close that her arm brushed against his with each step, the fabric of her shiny dress lightly touching the sleeve of the shirt he had borrowed from Uncle Wayne.

She let the contact happen slowly, almost as if she wanted him to notice, to finally understand what she felt.

For nine months, she had waited, going to the video store every week, listening to him talk about movies and bands, hoping for some sign that he knew the effect he had on her. But Eddie seemed oblivious, lost in his own insecurities.

Her heart was racing, her cheeks flushed, and she felt like she could float just by being near him. Every move he made, no matter how small, seemed perfect, and it made her chest ache with tenderness. He wasn’t trying to be something he wasn’t. He was just Eddie, the guy who made her laugh and feel at ease, the guy who had made her heart skip a beat from the moment they met, and oh my god, she...she loves him, she loves him, loves him.

The realization hit her like a wave, crashing over her with such force that it took her breath away. She had been falling for him without even realizing it, and now, in this moment, it was so clear.

Chrissy took a deep breath, trying to calm herself. Inside, she was a mess, completely in love, daydreaming about him since the day their worlds collided in that forest. She remembered how funny and kind he was, how he made jokes just to get a smile from her. She remembered how he always seemed surprised when she laughed at his silly comments, as if he couldn’t believe someone like her would find him funny.

And now, with him by her side, walking so close that she could feel the warmth of his body, all she could think about was how badly she wanted him to know. How she wanted him to understand that all those nine months of visiting the video store, the smiles and glances, had been for him. That she didn’t need tapes or movies; she needed him.

She bit her lip again, anxious, as her arm brushed against his once more. This time, she didn’t pull away. She let the touch linger, waiting, hoping that he would finally realize what she was trying to say without words.

As they stepped outside, the cold air was interrupted by the loud, annoying voice of Brian Slagel. He appeared with a cup in his hand and a smug grin, stumbling a little in his own overconfidence.

"Chrissy! You’re alone, babe?" he asked, completely ignoring Eddie beside her. "It’s New Year’s, you know? You can’t be without a kiss at midnight."

Eddie stopped, his heart sinking, thinking maybe this was what she wanted. Maybe she wanted Brian. He took a step back, his shoulders slumping, trying to look indifferent, but his eyes never left her face.

Chrissy, however, immediately pulled away, yanking her arm out of Brian’s grip.

"No, I don’t want that, Brian. Let go of me!"

Brian laughed as if she were joking, moving closer.

"Come on, babe. Jason Carver was an idiot for losing you. I’m not."

Eddie saw her expression change. The sweetness in her face turned to something more tense, uncomfortable, and she tried to push Brian away again.

That was enough. Eddie, who had been paralyzed by doubt until then, felt his blood boil. He moved before he could think, pushing Brian away from her.

"Hey, she said no, are you deaf? Don’t touch her, you jerk!" Eddie growled, his tone fiercer than he had ever expected, the urge to knock the guy out surging through him.

He had always been the nerd, too weak for fights, but for her… it was like a protective instinct had surged, one that made him feel like he could crush this guy with his bare hands.

Brian looked at him as if he couldn't believe what he was seeing.

"And who the hell do you think you are, weirdo? Why don't you go back to your hole, huh?"

Before Brian could make another move, Eddie shoved him hard, sending him stumbling backward and crashing to the ground. The chaos was instant, with people shouting and forming a circle around the two of them. Brian quickly got up and shoved Eddie back, knocking him down to the ground.

The impact made Eddie hit the floor, the collective gasp from the crowd echoing in his ears. He felt the pain shoot through his back and, worse, the weight of humiliation. He stared up at the sky, thinking he might have just made the worst choice ever.

Great, Munson, he thought, now you look like an idiot. You should’ve stayed quiet. Now you’ve embarrassed yourself in front of her.

But before he could even get up, Chrissy was there, kneeling beside him.

“Eddie! Oh my God, are you okay?” Her voice was full of concern, and he felt her delicate fingers gently hold his face, turning it upward.

For a moment, Eddie was completely lost, staring at her. Chrissy’s hair framed her face perfectly, her dress shimmering under the glow sticks began to light up, reflecting in her blue eyes as if he had died and gone to heaven.

“Did I hit my head too hard, or are you an angel?” He asked, his voice weak but honest.

Chrissy laughed, that sweet sound he loved, and her smile lit up everything around them.

“You goofball.” She shook her head, her eyes still worried, as she helped him to his feet. “Are you okay?”

Eddie didn’t answer right away. He was standing, but his focus was entirely on her, still holding his arm to steady him, looking at him as if he were the most important thing in that moment.

“I think so,” he finally murmured, his heart still pounding in his chest.

Chrissy smiled, a little more relieved, and only then did she let go of him, allowing him to stand on his own.

The countdown began, but for Eddie, everything felt like it was moving in slow motion. She was still there, by his side, her eyes sparkling as if nothing else mattered.

“Ten! Nine!”

Eddie felt his breath quicken, as if the air around him was too heavy. He could still feel Chrissy’s fingers holding his face moments ago, the soft touch that left him on the edge of an internal combustion.

He looked at her, still so close, face to face with him, her face illuminated by the lights of the fireworks starting to explode in the distance.

“Eight! Seven!”

Chrissy tilted her head slightly, her eyes shining with something he couldn’t quite decipher, but it made him want to freeze this moment forever.

“Are you nervous?” she asked, her voice as sweet as a whisper, a half-smile tugging at her lips, part daring, part shy.

He laughed, his throat dry.

“Is it that obvious?”

“A little.” Chrissy laughed along, the sound warming his chest in a way he hadn’t known he needed.

“Six! Five!”

She took a subtle step closer, her fingers brushing his arm, her gaze never leaving his.

“You’re... getting pretty close,” he murmured, feeling his heart hammering.

“Is that a problem?” she asked, her lips curling into a smile that seemed both mischievous and innocent at the same time.

“Four! Three!”

“No. Definitely not. Hell, no,” he trembled, still in disbelief that this was really happening.

Chrissy stood on her toes, her eyes so close that Eddie could barely think of anything else.

“Two! One!”

“Happy New Year!” the crowd shouted.

And then Chrissy smiled again, her face so close that Eddie barely had time to react. She stood on her toes, and her lips met his in a soft, sweet kiss at first, but it quickly grew into one full of increasing intensity.

Eddie stood still for a second, his mind blank, before finally giving in to the moment. He placed one hand on her waist, the other gently moving up her back, pulling her closer, finally feeling the fabric of her shimmering dress and the taste of her gloss, making a mess on both their chins.

She sighed, trembling against his lips, and he did too. The sounds of the fireworks in the sky, the glowing sticks around them, and the cheers of the crowd faded away, leaving only the sound of their racing hearts.

The kiss was better than in his dreams – sweet, but with a quiet urgency that made him want to hold her forever.

Chrissy pulled back slightly, her face still close to his, her lips curling into a shy smile, her cheeks flushed.

“Happy New Year, Eddie,” she murmured, so softly he almost didn’t hear it.

He lifted his hand to hold her cheek, his fingers grazing her soft skin, incredulous.

And then he lowered his hand, finding hers. The two of them stood there, hand in hand, looking at each other with hearteyes, surrounded by all the shimmering lights.

“Happy New Year, angel.” The words escaped in a low whisper, but full of a feeling he couldn’t name. “Can I kiss you again? Or just in a year?”

“Idiot,” she laughed, that sweet smile that only he got. “How about all year long?” She stood on her toes again, tilting her face, and this time, it was him who kissed her and took the lead.

Before they could savor the moment any longer, a shout pierced the air:

“I KNEW IT! YOU OWE ME 20 BUCKS, YOU JERK! I TOLD YOU, I TOLD YOU IT'S NOT NORMAL SOMEONE RENT 20 MOVIES A WEEK, HA!” Robin, clearly drunk, shouted from a distance, laughing.

Eddie began to laugh, while Chrissy, visibly embarrassed, hid her face against his chest, laughing softly. He wrapped his arms around her, shielding her from the world outside.

"Ignore her," he said, smiling. "I do it all the time."

Chrissy lifted her eyes to him, still blushing, and laughed, a light sound full of happiness. Eddie looked at her, realizing that for the first time in months, there were no more nerves, no more doubts. He was exactly where he wanted to be—no, where he was meant to be.

And she, with a smile, closed her eyes, feeling happy as she held onto his back, making a wish when the fireworks exploded in the sky at midnight. She felt his chest against her cheek, wishing for the night to never end, hoping he would never become a stranger—one whose laugh she could recognize anywhere.

There’s glitter on the floor after the party Girls carrying their shoes down in the lobby Candle wax and Polaroids on the hardwood floor You and me forevermore.

She wants all his midnights.

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