#gareth x eleven | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

drops-of-june · 4 months ago

Text

SEASON II — EPISODE I: CHANGES

I don’t own the characters, this fanfic is based on the TV-Show Stranger Things (second season) from a Hargrove!Reader POV.

Quick reminder to readers, I'm not a english native speaker, so I'm sorry if there are any mistakes. Hope you understand.

You are not allowed to translate/repost inside or outside tumblr this fanfic. I will upload the fanfic in ao3, in my account.

TRIGGER WARNING: Subtle mentions of violence.

Summary: The first school year at Hawkins ends. As they say that when cycles come to a end, new opportunities open up.

Words: 6.2K

SEASON II — EPISODE I: CHANGES

'Come on... It can't be that bad.' Y/n commented, glancing towards Steve's bathroom door, which remained closed.

'I look ridiculous.'

Y/n was lying on Steve's bed and had been waiting for him to finish getting dressed, which he had already done ten minutes ago but he refused to leave the bathroom.

Steve's room had changed a bit since the first time she had visited him. By then it was a room that didn't reflect who he was at all. It was almost like a hotel room, with no hint of his personality other than a small picture of a car. Too... perfect. Now, he had taken a small step forward, and had studded some posters on the walls.

Y/n stared at the wall for a few seconds, as the image of Larry Bird stared back at her.

'It can't be that bad...'

'Electric blue is not my color.' He complained, causing her to roll her eyes. 'And this hat is stupid, why should we wear it?'

'Come on, I promise not to make fun.' She encouraged him.

'Liar.' Y/n, who was already losing patience and getting desperate, pulled herself straight up as she heard the door open and Steve shuffled out, his shoulders slumped. Y/n watched him for a few seconds and in silence. 'Come on... mock me.'

'Harrington, it's just a graduate robe and cap you'll wear for a few hours, it won't hurt you. Besides we'll all go the same. And blue suits you.’

After he took one last look at himself in the mirror, and took off his uniform, they set off for school.

It was a sunny day in late May 1985. The warm breeze brought with it a sense of change and new beginnings as the Hawkins High School seniors prepared for graduation. The basketball court was decorated with balloons and congratulatory banners, and white chairs lined up in perfect symmetry, awaiting the graduates and their families.

On the court, families and friends were already taking their seats. Susan and Neil Hargrove sat in the front row, next to Max, in the area reserved for family members.

In the bleachers were y/n's friends, including Eddie, Gareth, Jeff and Grant, ready to cheer enthusiastically. Eddie had fallen short of graduation requirements, so he would have to stay another year. A few seats down, Dustin was with his friends, but he seemed to be the most excited of all, cheering every time someone familiar walked by. Nancy and Jonathan were also present, to support Steve and y/n.

The principal approached the podium and began his opening speech, talking about the accomplishments of the class of '85 and the challenges they had overcome. The names of the graduates were called out one by one, and rounds of applause filled the air.

'Thomas Hagan.' Applause rang out as the boy went by to pick up his diploma and shook hands with the principal and teachers on stage.

'Y/N Hargrove.' The girl walked to the stage with a mixture of nervousness and pride. When she received her diploma, a little chaos erupted from the bleachers as y/n's friends began to shout her name.

'Let's go y/n! Do it for me!' She could hear Eddie's voice above the applause, making her smile even wider.

'You did it, y/n!' shouted Max, jumping out of her seat.

'Billy Hargrove,' Principal Higgins continued, trying to stop the noise.

' Got it, Billy!" Max cheered him on as well, as the audience applauded. Billy walked with his characteristic confidence onto the stage. The applause was equally deafening. Neil, still stoic, but Susan and Max smiled proudly as Billy received his diploma.

Finally, it was Steve's turn. He walked confidently to the stage, and when he received his diploma, he gave a little exaggerated bow that made everyone laugh. His friends clapped and cheered for them once again.

Once all the students had been named, the principal cleared his throat before announcing.

'I present to you all, the class of 1985.'

After a dinner out, the Hargroves returned to their home. While everyone was already asleep, the twins were in the kitchen cleaning up the coffee cups that were used upon arrival.

Y/n could feel the tension in the air. The same tension he had felt for days now.

Billy had been acting strangely for the past several days, as if he were carrying a secret he couldn't share. Since march, when they both turned 18, he seemed more distant, nervous and lost in his thoughts.

Y/n noticed it right away. She was his twin sister, after all, and she could read him better than anyone else. Finally, she decided to confront him.

'Billy, you're making me nervous.' She folded her arms, looking at him with a mixture of concern and determination. 'What's the matter with you? I know something's on your mind, but I have no idea what it is.' Billy avoided her gaze, pretending to be concentrating on properly rinsing the small spoons.

'It's nothing, y/n. I'm just... thinking about things.' He didn't make up a lie, he knew that with his sister they were no good. He'd never been able to lie to her no matter how much he wanted to, it was almost a skill she had for detecting them.

Y/n frowned, moving a little closer, and looked around in case they were being overheard by Neal or Susan, and lowered her voice, willing herself not to let the subject drop.

'You're thinking of leaving, aren't you?' Billy looked up quickly, his eyes reflecting surprise and a little fear. He shook his head, but the lie was obvious.

'No, it's not that...' She let out a sigh and put a hand on his shoulder.

'Billy, I'm your sister. I can see when something's bothering you. And if you're thinking of leaving, that's okay. I understand.' Billy pursed his lips, his eyes full of conflict. He was surprised, because he thought she was going to be angry with him. Many years ago they had made a promise to leave when they came of age, but things changed when Max and Susan came along, and the plan had been postponed until they found a solution. Now that they were older, they were not hindered by their father. Billy feared that if he told his sister he wanted to leave, she would think he was going to leave her alone with Neal.

'I don't want to leave you alone, Sundance. It's not right to make you go with me either, I know you've accomplished a lot here, and you have your friends. You figured out how to fit in here. But I...' She hugged him, interrupting whatever he was about to say. Silently, he hugged her back. Moments later, she spoke to him still in a low voice, almost a whisper.

'Don't worry about me, okay? Neither is it right for you to stay here alone because of me. This is your moment. You need this, and I'm going to always support you in whatever you decide to do.'

Billy looked at her, his expression softening a little.

'And what will you do with Neal?' He asked, glancing toward their father's room. She shrugged, but with determination in her eyes and downplayed it with a wave of her hands.

'Screw Neal, I'll deal with it. And I promise I'll get out of here too. But for now, you need this more than I do.' She took her brother's hand and led him to his room. She fetched a bag from under the bed and together, they packed Billy's belongings in silence, each movement laden with pent-up emotion. When everything was ready, they went to the entrance until Billy stopped at the door with a thud.

'Max...' He said, worried.

'She'll understand. Don't worry.' She told him, reassuring him. 'I'll explain it all to her.'

'Tell Madmax I'll miss her, and tell her to be good.' He walked over to his sister and hugged her one last time, and gave her a kiss on the forehead. 'I'll let you know as soon as I get a place, y/n/n. I promise.' She hugged him tightly one last time, feeling the weight of goodbye on her chest.

'You'd better. Take good care of yourself, Butch. And be happy.' Billy nodded, his eyes shining with unshed tears.

'You too, Sundance. We'll meet again soon.'

The girl watched him as he climbed into the Camaro, the engine roaring in the quiet Hawkins night. She watched him drive away slowly, the sound of the car fading into the distance. As the Camaro's taillights disappeared, Y/n felt a mixture of sadness and hope. She knew her brother was embarking on a journey to a better life, and that was what really mattered.

The cold night wind enveloped her as she stared out at the empty road, lost in thought. She remembered the difficult times they had gone through together, from her mother's departure to Neal's abuse. But she also remembered the laughter shared, the dreams whispered in the dark, and the promise of a better future. She breathed in deeply, feeling a new determination grow inside her. She knew her time would come, too. And when it did, she would be ready to embrace her own freedom and happiness, just as Billy was doing now.

As she walked back to the house, y/n felt an unexpected relief. She knew the wait wouldn't be easy, but she was certain it would all be worth it. She crawled into her bed, staring at the ceiling, thinking of the days to come. Even though her brother was no longer by her side physically, she felt his support and love stronger than ever. And that gave her strength to carry on.

***

1974, April 13. California.

Silence reigned in the Hargrove house. In one of the bedrooms, however, someone was stirring between the sheets. The room had walls painted in a warm shade of olive dappled green and geometric wallpaper in shades of burnt orange and earthen brown.

The room belonged to Hargrove twins.

A bunk bed was next to the window, through which a little moonlight filtered in, faintly illuminating the floor covered with toys and books.

From the top bunk bed peeked out one of the boy's hands, Billy, as he tended to fall asleep all sprawled out. Judging by his breathing, he was in a deep sleep.

However, y/n in the bottom bed, she had woken up with a dry throat. Not wanting to make noise so as not to cause trouble or inadvertently wake Billy, she got out of bed and went downstairs in search of orange juice. The silence in the house was total, broken only by the light creaking of the wood under her feet. She opened the refrigerator door and drank straight from a bottle, enjoying the cold liquid that calmed her thirst.

As she was about to go upstairs again, she heard a sobbing sound that made her stop in her tracks. Her heart began to beat faster as she quietly approached the source of the sound. The dim light from the kitchen illuminated the figure of her mother, Amanda, standing by the back door with a suitcase in her hand, ready to leave.

Amanda tensed as she heard y/n's footsteps, but when she saw that it was her daughter, she seemed relieved. For an instant, something in her face changed, as if she realized something important.

'Do you want to go for a ride, princess?' asked Amanda in a low voice, with a shaky smile. She had a fresh bruise on her cheek. Y/n looked at the suitcase in her mother's hand and the smile disappeared from her face.

'Are you leaving?' she asked, her voice full of fear and confusion, with too much understanding for her young age. Amanda nodded slowly.

'Yes, my love. I need to go. I want you to pack your backpack with the most important things. Let's go.' y/n's heart filled with a mixture of hope, and excitement.

'I'm going to wake Billy,' she said, turning toward the stairs.

'No!' Amanda said quickly, grabbing her arm. 'It's just us going. Billy can't come.' Y/n let go of her mother's hand, backing up a step.

'Why can't Billy come?'

Amanda tried to explain, her eyes filling with tears. 'It's complicated, princess. Men have it in their blood. It's better this way.' She seemed to be talking more to herself than to her daughter, as if trying to convince herself it was for the best.

Y/n shook her head, not understanding too much, just knowing she couldn't leave her brother alone. Not with Neal.

'I'm not leaving without Billy.' Amanda took a breath, closed her eyes in grief. Then she reached over, trying to give her one last hug, but y/n pulled away.

'Please, baby.' She begged, reaching out for her, but the girl stepped back again. Y/n watched with a broken heart as her mother walked out the back door, disappearing into the darkness of the night, leaving her and her brother with the monster in the house. She felt as if a gaping void opened up inside her. She didn't understand why her mother had decided to leave. All she knew was that life as she knew it had just changed forever.

What happened that night, became a secret between her and her mother. The only secret she kept from Billy, to protect him. A moment that broke the connection she thought she had with her mother, and an event that marked her as a person.

Y/n had learned not to be emotionally dependent on others easily, keeping an emotional distance that allowed her to protect herself. Although she had close friends, she rarely opened up completely, keeping her innermost thoughts locked away for fear of being abandoned or betrayed again.

The idea of fully trusting someone had become an imposing mountain to climb, and though she longed for comfort and genuine connection, she always kept a part of herself reserved, like a reflection of the child who had decided to keep quiet about the truth to protect her brother.

***

The next morning after Billy’s departure came with a deceptive calm. The sun was just beginning to peek over the horizon when y/n got up, feeling the weight of the previous night still on her shoulders. She quietly made her way around the house, trying not to wake anyone as she prepared breakfast. However, she knew that this moment of quiet would not last long.

Moments later, Neal came down the stairs, his expression stern and his frown more pronounced than usual. She watched him as she poured herself a cup of coffee, trying to keep her own expression neutral. She knew the inevitable question was about to arise.

'Where's Billy?" asked Neal suddenly, his voice cutting. She looked up, meeting his gaze.

'I don't know… did you check his room?' she asked, innocently. Neal narrowed his eyes.

'If I ask, it's because he's not in his room. His car's gone, and his stuff's gone. It's empty. Don't tell me you don't know anything.'

Y/n shrugged, keeping her tone calm.

'I have no idea. I just woke up. He must have gone out while we were sleeping. I'm not with him around the clock to check on him.'

Neal snorted, clearly dissatisfied with her answer, but without further evidence, he couldn't question her any further. He turned and walked out of the kitchen, muttering something between his teeth.

Max, who had been watching from the doorway, approached her. Her eyes were full of questions, but the eldest only smiled softly at her, trying to convey calmness. It was a silent conversation. Max looked at her for a moment, and a slow, happy smile spread across her face.

'I'm happy for him. He deserves to be happy.' Y/n smiled back, feeling a comforting warmth in her heart.

'Yes, he does.' Seeing that Neal wasn't around, she approached Max and lowered her voice. 'He left you greetings, and told you to behave yourself.' Max nodded, her grin lingering as she sat down at the table.

It was already dark by the time she found herself automatically getting into her car. She felt the lump that had formed in her throat the night before growing larger and larger, cutting off her breath.

In other circumstances she would have turned to Sam, the only person who had managed to break through that wall she had built around herself for protection. But at that moment, four hundred miles away, he wasn't an option.

The girl's mind was weighing the possibilities. Max was completely out of the question. Y/n wanted to appear strong to her, and it was the main reason she left the house in search of relief.

She considered Gareth. In the months they had been in a relationship, the boy had proven to be attentive and caring. She knew he would understand her, but she dismissed it as not wanting to worry him.

She also thought about Steve. But at the time he had his own problems to deal with, after his father refused to pay for his college. Y/n wasn't looking to be another burden, and bother him with silly things.

She stopped her car at the trailer park and got out of the car with bated breath. Y/n approached Eddie's trailer, her steps faltering. Tears had begun to spill, incessant down her cheeks and her face was pale. With a shaky knock, she knocked on the door. Eddie, with his trademark smile and the relaxed vibe that always accompanied him, opened the door, but noticing that she was crying, his expression changed to total concern.

'Hey, y/n/n... Are you okay?' He asked, taking a step towards her, offering her his hand to pass. She entered the caravan timidly and stood at the entrance.

'Sorry...I didn't know where to go.' She looked inside guiltily but Eddie put a hand on her shoulder.

'Wayne's not here, relax. What happened? Why...?' he asked, looking at his friend. She closed her eyes and he wrapped her in his arms, lovingly, and stroked her hair gently. 'It's all right... you can tell me...' He murmured. Y/n didn't know where to start, so she just clung to him until she could control the sobs a little.

She felt kind of silly for feeling this way. She knew it had been the best thing for her brother, and she had even helped him put his suitcase together, but it didn't stop hurting.

'Did Gareth do something to you? Did he hurt you? Because I swear that even if he is my friend, I will hang him by the ba...'

'No. No. It's not that. It wasn't him.' She clarified quickly, pulling away from the embrace. 'It's Billy... he left...' She explained, and Eddie pulled her towards the table to sit down. 'I know he needs it. Getting away from Neal was what we always wanted...' Eddie was somewhat aware of her friend's family situation, so he nodded silently, letting her talk. 'But...' She laughs lightly. 'I must look stupid to be crying about this.’

'Hey... You don't have to explain, angel.' He said taking her hand, pressing it affectionately. 'And it's not stupid, you were together your whole life... it's completely understandable.' He reassured her. Y/n wiped her tears with the back of her hand, and Eddie got up to offer her some napkins, not finding any, with a slightly awkward gesture he offers her a roll of toilet paper, causing her to let out a laugh. 'Sorry, it's all we have.' She thanks him, taking some and wiping her face with it. 'Would you like some coffee?'

'I'd love to, thank you.'

Eddie went into the small kitchen of the caravan as his friend settled herself at the table, trying to regain her composure. The soft light inside the caravan contrasted with the darkness of the night outside, creating a comforting atmosphere.

As the coffee brewed, Eddie glanced back, noticing how she surveyed the space with a mixture of nostalgia and sadness. Y/n curiously observed the mugs and caps hanging on the wall and smiled slightly. It looked like an interesting collection.

The noise of his friend working in the kitchen was the only thing interrupting the silence.

Finally, Eddie returned with two steaming mugs and sat down across from y/n.

'Here you go,' he said, pushing a mug toward her. 'I hope it helps you calm down a bit.' She took the mug gratefully and took a sip, appreciating the warmth the drink provided. She looked at Eddie, feeling a little more reassured by his comforting presence.

'Thank you, Eddie. I don't know what I'd do without you at times like this.'

'Anytime, rockstar.' After a moment of silence. He spoke again, cautious this time, as if he was hoping he wasn't saying something out of line. 'And what will you do now?'

She played with the spoon in the cup for a moment, thinking silently.

'I can't leave Max alone.' She began. 'But I'd like to do the same as Billy...though I like Hawkins… I don't know if I'd go far.'

'I wouldn't let you.' Eddie jokingly admitted, with a friendly smile. 'I'm not like Sam, I'd drag you by the balls to Hawkins again.' He commented, causing her to laugh. She took a sip of the infusion and after a moment, spoke again.

'I've been saving...it's not enough to buy a house, but...maybe if I find a better job I could get money together faster.' She admited as she thought aloud and Eddie stood up to look for something. 'I hear there's a mall opening up in town. Maybe I'll apply for a job there, they can probably pay me a little more.'

Eddie sat back down and left a card on the table.

'A few weeks ago this guy came through the park… he was offering some new caravans, but maybe you can get something in your price range...' He offered. y/n's eyes lit up.

'Are you saying you want me as a neighbor?' She asked giving him a friendly punch on the arm. 'You're going to regret it.' She joked, making him laugh.

'It would be an honor to have you as a neighbor, rockstar.' He admitted with a smile.

Even though summer was just about to begin, the heat was beginning to make itself felt on the streets of Hawkins. The sun was shining brightly, promising long, hot days, and the air was heavy with a mixture of seasonal anticipation and laziness. The new shopping center, Starcourt Mall, was about to open its doors to the public, and the entire town was talking about little more than its upcoming inauguration.

In the parking lot, Steve and y/n were still inside the car. She already had experience working, but for Steve, this would be his first time applying for a job. So she kept trying to give him encouragement before getting out of the vehicle.

'Come on... It's not as hard as it looks.'

'But what if I get rejected? What if I don't get a job?'

'We'll resort to my plan B. I'm not going to leave you alone on this one...'

'What's plan B?' He asked curiously. She wrinkled her nose, and narrowed her eyes, letting on that it wasn't something to her liking. 'Y/n...' Steve had gone pale, looking like he was about to throw up.

'For you it wouldn't be anything bad...' she promised, closing her eyes. A shiver ran down her spine. Opening her eyes again, she looked at Steve with determination. 'But it won't be necessary. Because you'll do fine, you'll see...' She paused, but he still didn't look convinced. 'Harrington, you took on demogorgons and demodogs. This is a piece of cake.'

They both got out of y/n's car, and started walking towards the building.

'If it wasn't for my father I wouldn't have to be doing this.' He muttered.

'Steve, don't worry so much. Not getting into college isn't the end of the world. And I'm sure you only wanted to get in because it's what you're supposed to do, not because you really want to.' She said with a comforting smile. Steve sighed and smiled back, grateful for her support.

'I guess you're right... '

'I usually am...' She murmured winking at him, and making him laugh.

As they walked through the automatic doors, their eyes widened in amazement. The lobby was a large, bright space, the polished marble floor reflecting the fluorescent lights hanging from the ceiling. In the center, a fountain adorned with colored lights spurted water, and they couldn't help but pause for a moment to admire the scene.

As they walked down the wide aisles, y/n felt like a little girl in a candy store. On either side, stores attractively displayed their wares. The clothing windows were decorated with mannequins displaying the latest fashion trends. Y/n smiled at the sight of a record store with a vinyl and cassette section, imagining her friends getting excited to see the selection of music.

The aroma of food guided them to the second floor, where the large food area offered a variety of dining options. From burger and pizza restaurants to Asian and Mexican food joints, the air was filled with enticing smells that made their stomachs growl. Tables and chairs arranged around an open space with decorative plants gave the place a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.

Steve and y/n stopped and parted ways, wishing each other luck. The girl already knew where she would try her luck first.

She entered the lobby of the movie theater, and looked around the place curiously. There was definitely more room than at the Hawkins cinema, and it more closely resembled the movie theater where she worked in San Diego. On one side of the lobby, there were a couple of ticket booths with glass windows where visitors could buy tickets. Off to the side, near the entrance to the theaters, the concession stand offered a tempting array of popcorn, soft drinks and candy.

Y/n walked toward who she thought was the manager, a middle-aged man with glasses and a welcoming smile. The man was talking to someone y/n instantly recognized. Kyle, her former co-worker from the Hawkins movie theater. When the manager looked up, Kyle turned and saw her enter. His expression went from curiosity to surprise and then to a warm smile.

'Y/n! I can't believe you're here too,' exclaimed Kyle, coming over to greet her. 'Mr. White, this is y/n, one of the best employees we ever had at the Hawkins movie theater. If anyone knows how to run a movie theater, she does. She's helped me more times than I've helped her.' He admitted, putting an arm around her shoulders.' Y/n couldn't help blushing and shook her head. Mr. White looked at her with renewed interest.

'Really? 'Well, it sounds like you have an excellent recommendation. Let's go to my office for the interview.'

The manager's office was decorated with classic and new movie posters, and a small plant in the corner gave it a cozy feel. Y/n sat in a chair across from him, feeling more confident as the conversation progressed. She had answered all the questions with ease, highlighting her experience working in movie theaters in both California and Hawkins. She told him about how she had managed box offices, supervised the cleaning of the theaters, and assisted in organizing special events. Her previous experience seemed to impress the man.

'I see you have quite a bit of experience in the field,' Thomas White said, reviewing her resume. 'That's exactly what we're looking for. We want someone with your knowledge and skills to be in charge of less experienced employees. Someone who can guide them and make sure everything runs smoothly.' She nodded, feeling relieved and excited at the same time.

'Oh... That's too much responsibility.' She started, but offered him a hand. 'I promise I won't let you down.'

When she came out of the interview, she was surprised to find Steve waiting for her.

'Did you get it?' He asked encouragingly. She smiled and held up in the air in her hand the new uniform she was to wear for the job, folded neatly into two plastic pouches.

'And you?' she asked, curious. But in his gaze she discovered that he had either been unlucky, or else had fled the quest in a cowardly manner. She folded her arms.

'I've already been told no by three different businesses. I can't sink any lower.'

'Then you keep trying.' She said taking him by the arm. 'You can volunteer as bait for some killer critters from a alternate dimension, but you can't take on a couple of managers?' she asked, forcing him to walk. She stopped in front of what appeared to be an ice cream shop.

'How about here?' She asked, tugging lightly at his shirt sleeve. Before waiting for an answer from him, she dragged him into the shop and hit the little service bell over the counter. From the door behind the display, a boy came out and upon seeing them he seemed surprised, he seemed to be waiting for someone else.

'Oh, good morning, are you here to look for work? I'm sorry to tell you that we only have one vacancy at the moment.' He commented somewhat apologetically. The girl quickly shook her head.

'That's perfect! We're just looking for a position...' She said, tugging on her friend's arm. 'Steve is looking for a job.' She said, encouraging him to talk.

'Oh, great... Uhm... If you want, come over here and I'll ask you a few questions.' The boy told him, pointing to one of the cubicles, and Steve followed. 'My name is Ned Miller...' He introduced himself, as he sat down in the chair across him.

Y/n sat in one of the cubicles opposite, on the other side of the store to give them privacy, but gave Steve a thumbs up as they exchanged glances, to infuse some courage.

After a few minutes, she was distractedly rolling a napkin to near shredding it, when a voice called her name. Y/n looked up and saw Robin, the girl she had met the year before in French class, who was approaching her with a nervous expression. Y/n assumed it was due to a first day at work, but she remembered that she used to behave the same way in class too. She always thought she was a bit hyperactive. She talked fast, stumbling over her words.

'Oh, hi, y/n! I didn't expect to s-ee you here... here.' She said, unable to keep herself from stumbling over her feet. Her cheeks flushed instantly. Y/n had started to get up in case she should help her, but Robin disguised it as best she could, sitting down across from her. Her voice trembled slightly, and her gaze drifted briefly to the floor before meeting y/n's eyes again. 'Are you here for an interview or something?'

The alluded, noticing Robin's nervousness and trying not to make her feel any more uncomfortable, replied kindly.

'Hey, Robin! what a surprise to see you too. No, I'm not here for an interview. I'm just accompanying Steve, he's here for a Job.' She gestured with a wave of her head to where Steve and the manager were talking. Robin, hearing this, looked over to where she had pointed and saw Steve in one of the cubicles with Ned Miller. Her expression changed slightly, and although she tried to maintain her composure, a shadow of disappointment crossed her face. With a clearly forced smile, she turned her attention back to the Hargrove girl.

'Oh, I see. Well, that's... uh, great.' Her face showed some discomfort, and y/n remembered that the image most had of Steve at school, was not the real one she had indeed known. However, she was unaware that Robin had believed for a moment she would be working alongside her, and her mind had begun to fantasize scenarios where they shared chats and laughed together during breaks. Every time y/n smiled at her, Robin felt her heart race a little faster. The thought of spending so much time with her in the same place excited her and, at the same time, made her nervous. And all at once, that balloon of fantasies, deflated with a pinprick. Robin, blushing and smiling nervously, shrugged her shoulders. 'Anyway. If you ever need anything, you know, or if you want to chat during a break, I'll be around.'

Y/n smiled back, clearly oblivious to everything going on in her head.

'That sounds great, Robin. Thanks. I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot of each other over the summer.' She said, pointing to the theater uniform resting next to her on the seat. Robin nodded quickly, with a mixture of relief and anxiety on her face.

'Oh, yeah, definitely. And, uh, good luck with Steve and... well, all that.' She said before vanishing out the staff door, behind the counter. Only a few minutes later, Ned and Steve walked over to y/n's table. She asked Steve the question with her eyes, as the manager walked towards the room where Robin disappeared.

'So, did you get it?” she asked in a whisper. He seemed less glum than before, but not quite.

'I don't know, he still didn't tell me... He said to wait here.' He murmured, collapsing beside her. After a few minutes that seemed like forever to the two friends, the door opened.

'Welcome aboard the Scoops Ahoy ship, Steve!' Ned said as he stepped out of the staff room. Behind him was Robin. She was now wearing a white collar and puffed sleeves on a striped shirt, a vest and a high-waisted blue shorts.

'Do I have to wear that?' Steve asked, pointing to the uniform the other girl was wearing. Y/n smacked him on the chest with the back of her hand.

'Are you going to be this much of a prima donna about everything?' Robin asked. Steve looked extremely confused.

'I'm nothing like Madonna, so that doesn't even make sense' Y/n let out a laugh, Steve frowned at her, as if requesting for backup. Robin spoke again.

'You're going to be fine with the monotony of scooping ice cream for entitled adults and whining, sticky children all summer? What happens when one of your many friends and admirers comes in and you wish you were out there having fun instead of in here slinging another U.S.S. Butterscotch?' Y/n's gaze went from Steve to Robin, and vice versa.

'I can handle it.'

'Sure you can, rocket man.'

'Ok, ok, you two, settle down.' Interjected y/n,interrupting their bickering. 'We can do this like the civilized people we are. Right?' She asked, and they both fell silent. Just then, Ned seemed to finish filling out the paperwork for the hiring.

'All right, you two. It's going to be a sweet, sweet summer!' He said. Y/n forced a smile for her friend. 'Steve, let's get you into Scoops gear right away.' He said, as he opened the door for staff again, this time leaving it open for the boy to follow.

'Yippee' He muttered to y/n as he got up from beside him. Before following Ned, he stopped next to Robin and offered her a hand. 'Hey, look, if we're going to be working together this summer, let's call a truce, okay? I don't know why you don't like me, but I'm a pretty okay guy.' Robin looked at y/n, and y/n smiled at her, causing her to lose the rhythm of her thoughts, so she took Steve's hand without saying anything. And he went behind the counter.

'I don't want to sound rude, but are you really friends with Harrington?' She asked with a grimace. Y/n remembered when Eddie had asked her something similar. Although they hadn't gone through the shared experience with the demodogs at the time, the answer was even clearer.

'I'd trust him with my life. Give him a chance.' She asked sincerely. ' 'He's not like everyone thinks.'

Two minutes later, Steve is standing in front of them, with his uniform on, although the shorts he was wearing were tighter than the girl's. And the sailor's cap, barely fitting over his head because of his hair. Robin lets out a laugh at the sight of him. Y/n tries to be more discreet.

'That's...just...wow.'

'Thanks for really upping my self-esteem here.'

'I told you you looked good in blue.' Y/n commented.

'Can you do a spin?' Robin asked. Steve, frustrated threw his cap on the floor.

'Steve!' Scolded his friend, and before she could pick it up, Ned did, and dusted it off.

'I'm going to start instructing you on the basics of serving ice cream, okay?' He said, handing the cap back to Steve, and going behind the counter. Y/n climbed onto one of the seats, propping her knees up and leaning her torso against the backrest, facing the counter. However, before Robin and Steve followed Ned from the other side of the counter, the girl pulled a polaroid out of her backpack and snapped a picture of Steve, who was still frowning.

'Oh, this is perfect.'

'No,' he demanded, still frowning. 'Destroy that, right now.'

Y/n watches them, somewhere between amused and concerned. That was going to be a very interesting summer.

7 notes · View notes

alicetallula · 7 months ago

Text

Stranger Things Reverse Big Bang 2023/2024 - HIM by mashawisotsky - Part I - 25.04.2024

It's a blast to work with @mashawisotsky on the IT AU for the @strangerthingsreversebigbang

The AU will be a series with different parts added little by little with illustrations by yours truly :3

Part I NSFW

Banner - HIM by mashawisotsky - 25.04.2024

Done using ink pens and alcohol markers, acrylic paint pens and Photoshop for the title and credits

AO3 post / DeviantArt post / Instagram post / Pillowfort post / Twitter post

Banner as is - Max, El, Dustin, Gareth, Will, Mike and Lucas as adults - HIM by mashawisotsky - 25.04.2024

Done using ink pens and alcohol markers and acrylic paint pens

AO3 post / DeviantArt post / Instagram post / Pillowfort post / Twitter post

Header - Two red balloons - HIM by mashawisotsky - 25.04.2024

Done using ink pens, alcohol markers and acrylic paint pens

AO3 post / DeviantArt post / Instagram post / Pillowfort post / Twitter post

7 notes · View notes

pearlypairings · 9 months ago

Note

🛳️. For the fic recommendation thing!

11. 🛳️ A fic that brought you aboard a new ship

With a Little Help From My Friends by @1lostsoul0fishbowl introduced me to Eleven and Gareth which then led me straight to the GreatMage pipeline of Next Time I Fall and life hasn't been the same since for those two adorable dweebs <3.

Send an ask for a fic rec :)

#fic rec ask game #fic rec #stranger things rarepair #great mage #eleven hopper #gareth #el x gareth #losty converts us all #ask pearly #pearly answers #thanks for the ask!

7 notes · View notes

ofbluesandyellows · 2 years ago

Text

Twelve: Jitterbug Love - Eddie Munson/Reader

Warnings: swearing, alcohol drinking.

Word count: 7,543

a/n: this is the end my friends! Pure fluff, have fun reading it!

Previous chapter

Days felt like they were coming in slow motion, even reluctant to come at all, so slow and sticky with summer air and mugginess, but the expectation grew and it helped but what really served as the ultimate incentive was when you got the heads up from your school to get the magazine printed. Sonic Fret still looked more like a zine than anything but so far it was better than nothing and your classmates were really supportive and interested in the content of it, there were details that needed work.

Arriving at Hawkins your first stop was at the Wheeler’s. Nancy and Jonathan were waiting for you in her room, you’ve been there just once in the past and it surprised you that Nancy looked so put together that you never thought about her having a crush on anyone, but yes, there it was, a big poster of Tom Cruise occupying a large part of his wall. Interesting.

You’ve talked to Jonathan only through the phone but having both of them there was like magic happening. Things started to take form pretty quick, the magazine got a few changes and Nancy as the rich kid of the three offered to get it color printed, one of Jonathan’s photos right front and center. The inside had a little section with all the collaborators of the magazine, with a small individual photo beside each name, it looked professional but also different from all the other magazines you’ve bought in the last year, this had bright tones and lots of images that represented each piece.

Nancy and you hugged after you finished shifting and editing parts of the contents, flashes from Jonathan’s camera coming at times as you worked and at the end it was Mike holding the camera, taking the most important image of them all, you three holding Sonic Fret. Smiles couldn't be wider, it was the achievement of a year of hard work but it was finally there, not complete yet but just one print away from it.

“You guys are going to the movie night, right?” you asked both of them as Nancy drove.

Nancy nodded, throwing you a glance through the rearview mirror. “Sure, Mike has been bothering me about it since he found out, and maybe it’d be good to have photos of it, you know just for the memories.”

“Yes, correct. We have Byers’ boy here to take the most epic photos.”

“You got it! I wouldn’t miss it, mostly because there will be free food anyway so absolutely,” Jonathan smiled at you. “It’s going to be good.”

“It is already good, come on! I can’t believe we finally come to this.” the fluttery feeling of nerves and excitement increased in the base of your belly, your hard work was reflected in the almost finished magazine.

“Yes, it’s been hard… and expensive but it’s good, my mom thinks it has potential.” Jonathan exclaimed, looking out the window, “I don’t say it because it’s my mom but you know… it’s nice to have the adults opinion.”

“Tell her what Hopper said.” Nancy shot Jonathan a funny look. It made you squint at them.

“What did he say?”

“Uh. well… um he thinks it is very… cool? no, no, he said dope… your magazine is dope kid!”

“No way,” you snorted, and all three of you were laughing as Nancy reached your aunt’s home. “At least we have a strong fan base guys, it’s getting better.”

The car came to a halt when Eddie’s van came out of the curve, parking right on the same spot he had since you met him a year ago. Your whole body buzzed at the expectation of seeing him again for the first time in months.

Nancy and Jonathan traded secret glances and looked at you.

“Well, see you later,” Nancy smiled.

You saw Eddie coming out of his van and your heart somersaulted against your ribs, ready to burst.

“Say hi to Eddie for us.” Jonathan said, but you were already shutting the door close.

Eddie looked the same yet hotter and hell! his smile, you ran to his arms without thinking through.

The clash of bodies, took the breath out of his lungs as he heard you laughing, clinging to his neck, legs surrounding his hips, he had no option but to put one of his hands on your butt and the other on your waist.

“Hey, love how are you?” he was surprised by the calmness of his voice, on the inside he was shaking, legs felt like jelly just by feeling you around his arms. “Fucking hell, I missed you!” his face hid between your hair.

For the first time you felt like you were home.

Your backpack fell at your feet when Eddie put you on the ground, his eyes were shining and yours were watery for some reason you felt like crying.

“No crying, come on baby, we are having our romantic encounter.”

“But these are happy tears!” you tried to defend your emotional state but it made Eddie’s face to contort into a sad lipped smile, “don’t do that it makes me feel bad, I’m just happy to see you Eddie,”

“Then kiss me,” he quickly grabbed you by the waist and in a second you two were kissing, it started cute just chaste kiss after chaste kiss.

You had curious eyes on you, people passing by in their cars, slowing down just to see who was showing PDA on the streets of Hawkins. The news of you and Eddie being together was very new in town and of course they talked about it, your aunt was worried about what people could say or think of you but your mom eased her down, Eddie is the cutest sweetest boy in the world. She said.

Whatever happened around you was the least of your problems, you were very interested in kissing every part of each other’s faces. Your hands grasped Eddie’s soft dark hair just as his hands squeezed your sides a little as the kiss intensified slowly, tongues got in the way and restless hands tried to grab more than they could.

At some point you were dragging Eddie across the living room of your temporary home, you left the backpack on the entrance of the house. Eddie chuckled as you kept on pulling onto his arm, all was good until you got to the stairs, he froze mid-step. Your uncle watched you two from the rim of this newspaper, he was sitting on the couch, facing you.

You clearly heard Eddie gulp, and his body stiffened. Knitting your brows together, your eyes went from your boyfriend to your uncle as if you were watching a tennis match.

“Uh, good afternoon Mr. Johnson… sir.” Eddie half bowed half waved with his free hand. He wanted to run the hell away from there. The image of that gunshot still fresh in his mind.

“Good afternoon.” Your uncle grunted, folded his paper and walked out to the garden where your aunt was watering her roses, minding her own business.

Immediately after the man disappeared from Eddie’s line of vision he visibly relaxed, a sigh came out of him and you tugged at his arm calling for attention.

“What was that about?” You had a funny look set on Eddie.

He half shrugged, “nothing–I think he doesn’t like me much”

“But I do- and we are going to be here only for a few minutes, let’s go.” You had agreed to go help Steve decorate his house for the Star Wars thing, which was set for tonight.

As you guided Eddie up the stairs, he held your hand to his lips. “You’re taking me to your room? Oh babe, that’s so naughty of you.” his smug tone made you giggle.

The moment the door of your cousin’s room clicked closed you pushed Eddie against it and started kissing him again. It’s been a while. You haven’t seen each other in 3 months, you both needed it, no matter how much you had clashed your lips together earlier it was not enough.

Eddie’s hands on your hair and neck, he grabbed the chain you had around it, he saw the ring he gave you hanging there, warm to the touch, smiling he kissed you harder, biting your lower lip lightly, causing ripples of desire go down your belly. Your own hands found a place under his shirt, fingers running down his back. It made Eddie shiver and gasp mid kiss, causing you to grin. Oh the power you had over him, you were barely aware of it.

“Hey there, I have something to tell you,” he mumbled shakily over your lips, pushing your hair aside so he could have better access to your neck.

“What is it?” Eddie left tiny pecks on the side of your neck up to your cheek, eyelids and finally he kissed your nose.

His smile was one you’ve never seen on him before, wide and sweet. His eyes sparkled and he was looking down at you, with so much adoration it was making your insides squirm.

“What?” You asked again, your hands brushing the top of his hair.

He half shrugged, kissing the tip of your nose again. You felt him grip your hips slightly harder “I think I’ve never been this happy. You make me happy y/n”

Your own lips tugged upwards, “is that what you wanted to tell me?”

Eddie chuckled, “well yeah, I mean it’s not like you didn’t know already”

“But it’s nice to hear it, because you, Eddie Munson, make me extremely happy and proud.”

Eddie felt his whole face flush, he truly didn’t have much word encouragement or appreciation in his life growing up so this was nice and new and he was enjoying every second of it.

“You forgot to say that I’m the most handsome man you’ve met, with the best band in the world, that we are the future of music.” You scrunched your nose laughing, “what’s so funny huh?” He poked your stomach making you laugh even harder.

“Aah stop,” he didn’t until you fell flat on the matters, Eddie’s legs on each side of your hips, he leaned over you, as you slowly stopped laughing.

“Seriously, you make me happy and… I have news.”

Eddie had you pinned down but he was only looking at you as if you were the most precious thing in the whole universe, to him you certainly were. Grabbing your hands, interlacing his fingers with yours, he stared.

“Okay, tell me… better be good news.”

“They are,” his smirk gave it away, “we–Corroded Coffin–have a deal… like a real record deal.”

You felt your stomach clench, “are you for real?” Eddie nodded, biting his lower lip. “Shut the fuck up!”

“I fucking know! It’s insane, I mean we have to go to Chicago in two weeks to see details about the contract but… baby, it’s happening!”

Eddie squealed, jumping out of his spot in the bed, he started pacing around telling you all the details about the phone call he received only two days ago, how his friends and band members were over the moon for the news. For Eddie this was huge, and you knew, but he felt beyond happy, words were not enough to express how he felt, never in his life experienced such an amount of joy.

He truly felt like he could burst into specks of sparkles and confetti. You watched him talk with crazy hand gestures and incredible wide grins, teeth showing and rings shining. You could watch him do that forever. But most importantly he was happy and you were there to see him shine and grow.

☼

The arrangements for the Star Wars party were pretty simple but you were in awe when the mirror ball reflected the colorful lights Steve had already installed in his living room. It showered the house in rainbow rays of light, it really made you think of how the whole space jump aspect of the films looked like.

While Eddie helped put cushions on the floor and place the cookies shaped as Ewoks and R2D2’s on large plates. You went to meet Robin in the kitchen, you gave Eddie a once-over, he was smiling at the decorated cookies, proud of the way he had arranged each of them in perfect lines, you loved a childish man.

Grinning, you almost clashed with someone on your way in. Liquid swinging dangerously inside the transparent cups the person was holding on a tray.

“Shit, I’m so sorry.” you said, helping the girl.

The red haired girl smiled at you, “no worries, we didn’t spill anything, we are good. Steve would’ve killed us.”

“He totally would,” you laughed, “You’re Vickie right?” the girl nodded and suddenly Robin was by her side, as if she had appeared out of thin air.

“Ah, fantastic!” Robin said gleefully. “My two favorite girls here. so I’ll make the introductions.”

“We were already–” you tried to say.

“Shh, Y/n, this is important.”

You rolled your eyes at your friend, you heard Vickie chuckle.

“Y/n, this is Vickie… my beautiful girlfriend.” The beam Robin showed to the girl beside her made you want to cry, they both looked so happy it was the most joyful you’ve seen her in your life. “Vick, this is y/n, my best friend… I’ve told you a lot about her.”

“Yes you have, but it’s lovely to finally meet you in person y/n”

“Likewise, my friend here has been utterly in love with you since forever.” you laughed, but quickly went silent when Robin threw you a sharp look. “anyway… I hope she has told you only the nice things about me.”

Vickie nudged Robin–who still had you with a death glare– with her elbow, your friend looked at her, and then at you, her face softening immediately, cheeks growing red.

“You know Robs, she told me everything about everyone really, so yeah the good and the bad,” Vickie shrugged, “you’re okay though, don’t worry, I bet she’s one drink away from telling you all my embarrassing stories as well.”

You both laughed, and Robin grunted in faux irritation, she loved that both of you were bonding even over her gossipy self.

“I wouldn’t doubt that, but hey, let me help you with that.”

Taking the tray Vickie had been holding with drinks in bright almost radioactive colors, you turned around and walked to the living room, the snacks table was already set, all thanks to your handy boyfriend.

Eddie met you there. Smiling he leaned closer to you as you placed the tray on the surface of the clothed wooden table.

“She is cool, right? I mean, Vickie. I’ve talked to her a few times and she is just like Robin, she is less clumsy but they kind of have the same… um, goodwill and are always there to help, if you know what I mean.”

“She is very nice,” you both looked at Robin and Vickie, pouring green stuff into more cups, they were laughing about something and pushing each other playfully. Vickie kissed Robin’s cheek and then Robin kissed her on the lips.

That was your cue to look away.

“I’m just happy Robin is happy, and for once she is being herself fully, that is all that matters.”

Eddie’s sneaky arm went over your shoulders, dragging you closer to his body, he smelled like mint gum, you sniffed, oh he definitely ate one of the cookies because there was some hint of cinnamon in the air.

“I’m happy everyone is happy right now, even Harrington. He deserves someone who loves him for who he truly is not because he was popular in school,” Eddie scoffed, “it’s beyond me how he pulled off dating Wheeler, but I guess the world works in mysterious ways.”

You nodded but quickly turned to face your boyfriend, “wait… why you say that? Do you know something I don't?”

Squinting at him, Eddie gulped, shit now this was his fault, he shouldn’t have said anything.

Fuck me!

Steve was going to kill him. But more than anything he knew very well he couldn’t divert your attention to other topics, you were not going to let it go until you found out what was going on,

“Shit, okay…” the palm of his hand brushed across his face, eyes tightly closed. “Promise me you won’t tell Harrington I told you, because he made me swear on my guitar that I wouldn’t tell but look at me, I’m always so stupid. Also, he wanted to tell you everything… so… can you promise?”

His shiny dark chocolate pools of irises were enough to swear on it.

“Now spill Eddie!”

Eddie sighed and whispered in your ear, you were in shock, how was that not even Robin had told you about this, it was odd and impressive at the same time. You hated when they knew stuff and you were the last to find out. Yet you understood why Steve hadn’t told you about his current crush.

The girl was not the obvious option for him, she was new in town and she was a Star Wars fan, she had read about Lord of The Rings and played all the games at the arcade. It was the opposite of Nance. So it was twice as shocking to you when that night you found Steve blushing and giggling like a little child when said girl was around, it was a s if Steve had lost his brain in one of the rooms of his big house and now he was just… being stupid.

Robin told you all about how they met, it was all the kids doing; Max invited her to one of the movie nights and that was the end for mom Steve. You’ve seen Steve being an idiot before, several times, like it was part of his personality, yet that night he reached another level of idiocy.

Green punch fell off his hand and splashed his jeans, and carpet, the girl–named Maggie–was laughing, while Eddie snorted by your side, he was not going to let that go easily. From far away you saw Nancy and Jonathan communicating as they did, with knowing looks and smiles and giggles as they watched the scene grow more dramatic as Steve knocked over another cup of punch with his feet as he made his way to the bathroom.

Keith rolled his eyes and sighed, but not only Steve but everyone who dared to make another sound during the movie, he would remain annoying for the rest of his life.

Maggie was jolly, if you and Robin were a happy combo now with Vickie and Maggie around it was all big laughs and whispering gossip, this made Eddie and Steve worry about their own sanity, but just as Eddie said earlier, it was good, things were finally good in Hawkins and that was better than it had been in years.

At the end of the night, the whole gang was dancing to radio music as some collected trash, others ate the leftovers, and the rest just pretended to do the job as the chat kept going. And things felt like they have always been like that, Steve pulled you aside, he told you all about Maggie as you pretended to be shocked, gasping and smiling. Then again it got proven how bad of an actress you were.

“You knew already! Jesus! I can’t keep something for myself in this town or what!” Steve shouted to everyone in the house, “don’t even tell me, I know it was either Robin or Munson.”

“Hey, this is your fault, you should’ve told me! It hurt me not to hear it from you first, you dumbass.” you smacked him on the arm, he gasped.

“Ok, rude… and, sorry. I was overwhelmed and Robin made me feel bad about it the whole time, as if I had committed a crime for liking Maggie or something.” both hands on his hips, waiting for your acceptance of that horrible apology.

“Steve, shut up I never said anything bad to you, stop blaming me for your lack of confidence.”

Steve showed Robin his tongue and she flipped him the finger, you grinned, there they were, your two best friends being… them.

“Whatever Steve, are you asking her out or do you want me to tell her?” you snapped, with a wry smile.

He grimaced, “I can do that myself please y/h, I’ve done that a million times now,” your eyes narrowed, making Steve wince under the strong staring, “stop that, I swear I am inviting her out, just…. I need more time.”

“Ugh, if you say so.”

Eddie scoffed, “man, just do it… she’s gonna say yes, we all saw the way she laughed –rather loudly I dare to say, when you did stupid shit… trust me you did tons of stupid shit and still she stayed for the whole trilogy.”

Eddie was right, it was an act of stupidity followed by ten more that night, including choking on his own saliva as he said the name “Wicket W. Warrick.”

“She did not laugh that much!” Steve squealed, his cheeks going red.

“She definitely did,” Lucas tried to imitate Maggie’s laugh, only making you all laugh at his attempt, “y’all jerks.”

“Do it Steve!” Dustin started chanting, and soon everyone joined him until Steve put his hands up in the air to make you all stop the nonsense.

“You little fucks are the worst, just shut up and… let me call her.”

Howls and whistles sounded, prodding Steve to finally ask her out.

By the end of the night Steve had a date for the weekend with Maggie. That Sunday, you saw him go out of Family Video wearing a navy blue polo shirt, hair extra puffy and leaving a trace of lotion behind.

“He used too much of that thing,” Eddie coughed as you waited for Robin to finish her shift, you were taking her to the mall where she was meeting Vickie.

Robin smiled at the image of Steve fixing his hair again on the rearview mirror. If someone had enjoyed seeing him suffer that was Robin.

You were all leaning on the main desk. As Eddie and Robin made fun of him, you thought how nice it was to see him finally dating someone good for him, not that Nancy wasn’t but he was looking for someone who could replace her rather than someone he liked being around with.

Robin still had twenty minutes to go for her shift to end, meanwhile you and Eddie were pacing around Family Video, reading the back of the tapes’ summed-up parts in funny voices. When that got boring, Eddie dragged you to the farthest aisles, he put you against a self and kissed you, you were giggling the whole time.

“Shhh, VHS sheriff Buckley is coming for us.” Eddie mumbled as he leaned closer to your lips, in the movement, his hand smacked a tape off the rack and there they went… the whole line started to fall like a domino line.

“Guys!” Robin shouted from her spot on the desk, her head popped to shoot you the nastiest stares. “Seriously, can't you keep it in your pants for a few more minutes Eddie? And you y/n… I’m disappointed.”

You hid your face on Eddie’s chest, you both snorted, but it only made Robin more annoyed and for you to laugh even harder.

“Sorry Buckley, I’ll put everything in place, my bad.” Eddie put a hand over his heart, apologetically, as if that was enough to make Robin feel less frustrated.

Robin’s eyes rolled, it almost looked hurtful. “Just… ugh!” She went back to do whatever she has been doing before the commotion.

As Eddie placed the tapes back on, trying to look for the right place they were before, you watched him, not even bothered to help.

If someone saw you right there you were sure you would look like a complete idiot, Eddie was just everything for you. The way he blinked, how his smirk made your stomach twist and your toes curl, his hands were always warm and gentle when he touched you, and his rings were always there making a nice contrast to the temperature of his skin. His hair was soft and even when he didn’t want people to know he took good care of his messy locks, smelling like lavender and yeah, sometimes like weed, but hey “those are natural scents” he’d say to you with an easy shrug and a grin.

Maybe the future wasn’t going to be as easy as just being there with your friends but for now it all felt perfectly okay.

For Eddie it was like a whole new level of intimacy to have someone around not only to talk or joke around but to hug and hear encouraging words. Eddie was used to being pushed away, or looked at the wrong way, you were somewhat like the light he has been waiting on to shine on his path, to make him see things were good too. So he never missed the opportunity to say the nicest things to you, to kiss you whenever he felt like it, to hold you so close it felt natural to be there. For him it felt so instinctive to do everything knowing it was for you, and it wasn’t a possessive thing it was just a way to thank you and show what he never had growing up, love.

Eddie furrowed his eyebrows when he saw you standing there, just watching him. A smile playing on his lips, he wanted to ask what were you thinking but Robin’s clock chimed, and that only indicated that she was off, finally.

Placing the last couple of tapes on what he guessed were the right spots, he sighed looking at his work, it wasn’t the best but it was better than nothing, shrugging he turned to you and took your hand.

“Stop looking at me like that,” Eddie pushed you slightly with his hips, the chain on his jeans clicking. “It makes me feel all self conscious.”

“I was just admiring your beauty, but if you want I can look at other boys.”

He scoffed, “as if they were better looking than me.” you snorted, “don’t laugh! Let’s be honest I’m both gorgeous and have a great personality.”

“Yeah,”

“You’re mean” Eddie pushed you again, making you laugh harder, he smiled and went to the desk to see what Robin was doing.

“Just five minutes, I need to change.” She said, shoving her best in the pits of her backpack.

“Fineee! We’ll be outside. Hurry up Buckley!”

“Yes mom!”

Eddie passed you, opening the door open for you. Hand extended for you to take, funny enough, no matter how many times he did that, or kissed you, every single time you felt like squirming and jumping, the butterflies hadn’t had a rest since spring break.

Taking his hand. With a light squeeze Eddie guided you to his van, both got inside to wait for your friend.

Eddie put the radio on, pop music playing, he scrunched his nose, you only shook your head, classic Eddie.

Taking the bag you left in the car, there rested a new mixtape you made during the weeks leading up your comeback to Hawkins. Throwing it at Eddie’s lap he saw a name written on it, Jitterbug love, the song he sang to you that night a year ago.

A huge grin spread on his rosy lips, his fingers traced the name letter by letter, causing you to bite the inside of your cheek.

“Should I put it on?” He asked, already pushing it in the stereo.

“Hope it’s good enough for your high standards.”

“We’ll see about that.”

The first notes of We Will be Strong played Eddie immediately turned his face to face you, lips forming an ‘O’, for the chosen song and the fact that you knew the band had him a bit more in love with you

“Fucking Thin Lizzy, have I told you before how much I fucking love you?”

Your heart skipped a beat. No, that was the first time he ever said I love you, but he had expressed it plenty. Still the impact of his words felt funny in your chest, making your face heat up.

“Nope, but I love you too.”

He leaned in his lips and smacked yours so suddenly, grabbing you by the back of the neck, surprising and all you quickly you recovered.

“Now that’s what I’m talking about,” he simply said, bopping your nose with his index finger.

His head banging to the rhythm as the guitar riffs filled the space in the van, you felt at ease, joyful. From your spot inside the van, you saw Robin running around Family Video trying to put everything in place before closing for the day.

You sighed, resting your head on Eddie’s shoulder as he played air guitar. You two had the whole summer ahead, things were so different from what they were a year ago, and yet similar, one thing was for sure, change was inevitable and you were ready for it, as for that moment you were pleased with how life was developing. Next year, who knows what it’d bring.

☼

A year later.

Eddie puffed smoke out of his nose, this was the third cigarette he consumed in a row. The crowd inside the venue was only growing, he’d be lying if he said he didn’t feel nervous, his fucking keens were wobbling as if he was little Bambi making his way out of his mother’s womb.

It was ridiculous to him to feel so jittery for a performance when he has done it a dozen times now. To make things even worse you weren’t there, that was what had him more worried than anything else. Almost an hour late, he should be by the side of the stage now, getting ready to go up there.

The butt of the smoke went flying away with the flick of his finger. The autumn air was chilly, he had no jacket on because he felt like he didn’t need it, at least he wouldn’t once he started the show, but the moment the wind hit his naked arms he regretted not grabbing at least Steve’s corduroy jacket.

This was the most important performance for Corroded Coffin, that was true, but he tried to push the thought far away, not needing the extra pressure.

Eddie started pacing around the alley, close enough to the backdoor of the venue if someone came out looking for him but far enough to have a moment of privacy. Chicago looked so huge from where he was, he felt so little and insignificant when he thought about all he had gone through the last couple of years. All from being called the leader of a satanic cult, to fighting monsters in an alternate dimension to being in love and then being heartbroken just to be in love again, then Corroded Coffin getting big, who knew he had to go through all that just to be standing there in the cold without you in his arms.

The immensity of the world reduced to your figure running across the street. Your boots echoed in the alley, and Eddie finally felt like he could breathe.

“Christ! Baby I thought you were not going to make it!” Eddie shouted, you instinctively jumped to his arms once close enough, koala like, like a tradition now.

“I am so sorry, my bus broke down on my way here. I had to take a taxi and then another bus. But I’m here now.”

Your lips kissed Eddie’s cheek, holding his face between your hands, you smiled, he looked so beautiful with glitter on, his eyes shining even more.

“Aren’t you cold?” You asked, feeling the cold from his rings coming through your jeans.

“Nah, I’m all good now.” He grinned, and kissed you fondly.

“You were smoking,” you scrunched your nose.

He chuckled, “yeah, but I have a good excuse… you weren’t here and I was anxious, I am pissing my pants but it’s okay, you are here and that is just what I needed.”

“Hmm, okay then let’s go inside.”

Eddie let you down, fingers intertwined like second nature, it had been a difficult year for you both in terms of seeing one another. Eddie had done everything in his power so the debut album of Corroded Coffin could be recorded in New York, which they granted yet this was happening in the upcoming weeks. He was yearning for that time to spend it with you as much as he could.

They had done tours, as the supporting band which was great for them, they released their first songs at the beginning of the year and now they had them playing on the radio. It always made you smile when you heard your boyfriend’s voice coming from the speakers. Proud flooding you.

But for that you two had sacrificed visits and holidays together, so both of your careers could take off. You traveled as much as you could manage to be at Eddie’s shows and it was so much fun, you were not complaining at all, on the contrary you loved it, however, being back at Hawkins in his van sounded like a dream right now.

For you it had been good as well, the magazine was launching its official first edition in a few more weeks, shiny paper and a few record shops in Queens and Brooklyn agreed to sell copies in their establishments. That was another reason why you all were there, this was Corroded Coffin’s first performance as a band with a record on the way and singles playing everywhere, and you were there to have that first show ready to be redacted and placed on your magazine, this being one of many collaborations of the two.

Inside the venue was warm and loud as shit, Eddie’s chocolate eyes met yours every now and then as he showed you around, the green room was the final destination. Relieved sighs and claps were heard when the two of you stepped inside.

You hugged the whole band, Jeff already off the walls, like a wild animal ready to be set free.

Steve hugged you so hard the air in your lungs came out in a puf.

“Jesus, y/n. What took you so long! You should’ve told me I could have waited for you in Hawkins,”

“I’m here now, don’t sweat it.” you have him a kiss on the cheek to ease his nerves. “How was the trip?”

“Long, these kids I swear they are going to make me go insane.” Steve started to complain about all the noise and mess they made in his car, “good thing is that Maggie was there with me.”

They drove all the way from New York, to Hawkins to pick up the teens and take them to Chicago for tonight. Not all heroes wear capes.

“Where is Maggie?” You looked around to try and find her.

“Out there with Vickie and the kids, they said they wanted to have the best spots, even when I told them we had them already,” Steve rolled his eyes, “you know how they get.”

You nodded, understanding completely.

“Is Nancy and Jonathan here too? I need to know if we are good for the shots.”

Your body turned to Eddie, who was drinking water. He gave you a thumbs up, but soon enough you felt him coming for you, hugging you from behind.

“They got here like two days ago. I saw Byers earlier with all these different cameras and Wheeler was gathering information from the manager, so yeah all set.” Eddie mumbled, his chin resting on your shoulder, he kissed your cheek, that being enough for you to turn on your toes and kiss him back, harsher than necessary, making everyone grunt, you smiled, proud of the reaction.

“Hey! Am I invisible or something?” Robin complained, “I’m your best friend, y/n. I want a hug too.”

You chuckled, “We saw each other two days ago, Robs”

“So?”

“It's my time to shine Buckley, you’ll have her later.” Eddie pointed, poking his tongue out.

Now Robin and Steve were in New York with you, which was fantastic, you three shared an apartment. Good thing was that Vickie had got into a college in Brooklyn which was very convenient for Robin.

Maggie was always around, and occasionally the kids were seen in the apartment as well, you weren’t sure how but they managed to convince their parents to let them go to Manhattan. You didn’t even want to ask, they were sketchy whenever you asked about how they got permission or money. So you let them be.

“The band just finished their set. They gave you long enough so no more excuses, huh Edward.” Their manager, Martin, appeared at the door giving Eddie an accusative glance.

“Noted.” He responded still holding you, he saluted the man who smiled at you, closing the door.

“Hah, Edward.” Robin said laughing.

“Shut it, Buckley.”

Robin kept on laughing, you shook your head, dynamics always the same but it was funny to see Eddie covered in dark clothes, long hair and glittered face and then hearing someone call him Edward.

“Are you ready?” you looked at your boyfriend right in the eye.

“Am ready now that you are here,” your heart somersaulted, and the butterflies in your stomach danced wildly.

“Have the best night okay? Have fun!”

Eddie grinned, now he was finally feeling like this was the life he wanted, “can I get my good luck kiss please,” Eddie begged, his nose brushing yours.

“Of course,” your lips met his soft, pink ones, sweet and deep, his tongue met yours, teeth colliding and sighs escaped the two of you. “Good luck.” you whispered, barely able to speak.

“I love you!” Eddie held you closer, you heard his heart hammering in his chest.

“Love you more!” you replied, with a big grin, he finally let you go, reluctantly though.

Eddie felt whole for once, you were there, his friends were there, his band was not the opening act any more. They were finally playing a sold out show on their own, life couldn’t be better, after all the lows, he was finally living his dream.

“I want a good luck kiss too.” Gareth complained.

“Hey! Watch your words, man. You always have Jeff for that,” Eddie pushed his friend, clearly joking. “Let’s go boys, we have a show to give.”

The band started jumping, and patting each other on the back, making weird noises and letting the excitement wrap them.

Robin and Steve made gestures for you to follow them, but not before you could give Eddie one last look, he winked at you as you took different paths.

You followed your two best friends through a few corridors until you reached the designated place for you all. The kids hugged you and asked you about your trip and the whys you were so late, all the boys wearing their Corroded Coffin hand made shirts.

From there you saw Jonathan, he was fixing the lens of his camera, doing his best to find the best spot for the photos. Nancy and Maggie met you there the moment the light went off.

Screams made it all feel like the motor of a plane ready to take off, roars only going louder the floor shaking at your feet. Robin held your hand, Vickie by her side, Max as always ready to jump and dance with you, like your little own tradition.

Nancy had a tiny notepad by her side, she wrote a few words and went back to watch the show.

The reflectors went on stage and the band came out, the noise grew and grew making your body buzz with excitement. It started with Eddie giving a speech thanking everyone who attended the show and for requesting their song on the radio stations.

The concert went on with songs you knew by heart, shouting and dancing with your friends around, Nancy was enjoying herself a lot all the while she wrote down stuff, Jonathan nodded his head when he was not shooting flashes and changing lenses.

Their new song Fonder got everyone singing, dancing and sweating, passing water bottles to each other and laughing at the peak of happiness.

Corroded Coffin sounded better than ever, and looked even better, Eddie was shining, moving his hips, and banging his head to the sound. Solo guitars made the venue rumble as the crowd lost their shit to the sweet voice of their lead singer, and the absolute hypnotizing rhythm of the bass and drums.

“Now,” Eddie spoke on the mic, sweat pearls on his top lip. “This one means a lot to me, and I think it got secretly picked for the setlist a long time ago, and I don’t think I'd be going anywhere. Here’s a classic, Jitterbug Love by the iconic T Rex. This one's for you baby.”

A finger pointed at you, his wide grin made your breath hitch, the kids nudged you. It was the end of the song when you clocked Eddie placing his guitar aside, people screaming to get his attention but Eddie had one goal and that goal was to get to you.

The music continued thanks to the band who seemed to be very well prepared for this moment, elongating the song.

Eddie ran and dodged hands, gave high fives to a few and when he reached you, he only did what his heart felt like it. He kissed you, hands on both sides of your face, as the crowd shouted to the air, you laughed half way through the kiss.

“What are you doing?” you asked.

“I just felt like kissing you right fucking now.”

Eddie’s smile could light the whole city if possible, he was sweaty, you probably were too but it was all too sweet to even think of how sticky you felt. He ran back to the stage to sing the last couple of lines.

Jitterbug Love is going all around now

Here it comes again…

Eddie shouted to the microphone, blew a kiss to you. Cheeks were hot and you were shaking.

The green room was a party once the show ended, flowers were received and champagne spilled. Everyone gathered in the tiny room. You sat on Eddie’s lap, as he held you against his still hot sweaty body. You had glitter plastered all over your face and hands, you were loving it.

Jonathan and Nancy were talking about the piece they were writing together. Jeff pointed, “if your are good Byers, we could hired as our personal band photographer”

Which it was obvious he would.

Eddie bit your ear to drag your attention to him. You slapped his leg, hearing the rumble of his laugh on your back, “Can’t believe this happened,” he whispered.

“To me it’s all like a dream, it was wild.” you confirmed, looking into his eyes, “you were fantastic.”

“Thank you very much, I have a great girlfriend that supports me and is my biggest inspiration.” a peck on the corner of your lips, “truly, you are the best I don’t think I could’ve done any of this without you.”

A sigh escaped you, “back at you boy, Sonic Fret will have a special thank you note for your contribution.”

“Nah, not necessary. I’m happy with this, you and I here, with our friends.”

“Me too,” you snuggled closer to him as Steve and Robin depicted to everyone in the room all the crazy stuff they’ve seen in the subway in New York.

Eddie snorted, “Can’t believe they’re your friends,”

“Excuse me? They’re yours too. We fit in with them just right, we are all a little… derange.”

“In the best way obviously.”

“Hey don’t be calling us derange, you crazy rockstar.” Robin explained, “If it wasn’t for me you wouldn’t have met.”

“I didn’t even say anything! And you are completely wrong! If it wasn’t for Vickie.”

“What about me? I left Y/n there, duh” Steve stepped in.

You gasped, “how dare you admit that Steve. I had to walk home alone because of you.” You pointed at him and there the chaos unleashed.

“We all made it happen, now shut the fuck up, and keep on telling us why that lady had a squire inside her pocket.”

It was a normal evening in an unusual way. It all came full circle.

Loving Eddie was easy from the beginning. You’ve done it for two years now and no matter how much your lives changed you were ready to spend it with him; weird night encounters, long distance and random PDA’s with occasional fights over who had the best music taste. You always won, though.

a/n: Merry christmas and happy holidays to everyone who read this! I wanted to give you the last two chapters as a christmas present! This was so much fun to read, thank you for being here and I hope you enjoyed this just as much as I did... was this super cheesy and cliche? totally but Eddie deserves a happy ending. Let me know what you think and thanks a lot for being here💛 see ya next time

15 notes · View notes

hellishchrissy · 2 months ago

Note

Not exactly a prompt but I’d love to hear your headcanons about how Gareth and Eddie became friends, and how Eddie will react to Gareth and El getting together 😄😄😄

Ooh I love this!!

from what I've gathered, Eddie was doing his senior year for the first time in 1984-ish, the year Gareth was a freshman. that year was pretty shitty for gareth, as had been many years before -- he wasn't exactly fitting in at hawkins high, and his father had left their mother during the summer of 1984.

so, like the cliché of a misfit kid with authority issues he was, gareth was thrown into detention. a lot. for mouthing off to teachers, for skipping class, for getting into fights (and often getting his ass kicked. as time went by, the fighting didn't exactly cease but gareth was no longer the one losing them)

eddie was already the self-proclaimed king of the misfits, a title he wore like a badge of honor. gareth had a dislike of his theatrical personality and shit he pulled when all he wanted to do was eat his lunch, and so the younger kid kept his distance from munson and the hellfire club

that was until the day gareth and eddie found themselves in the same detention, lounging in the back row as they had done many, many times before -- just never at the same time. gareth had had his drumsticks with him, as he liked to sneak into band class during whenever he could and play the drums. the ones at home were from his father, shitty and worn down and gareth hated them. and he hated his father.

the silence in the classroom was consistently broken by the tapping of drumsticks against wood, and eddie was getting pretty fucking sick of it. he was tired, and he had a headache, and now this scrawny freshman was pounding an inconsistent rhythm into the desk like there was no one else in the room.

eddie avoided the gaze of the detention supervisor when he slipped his way across the back row and sat next to the kid, his hand slamming onto the drumstick to stop the ruckus

"if youre gonna make noise, might as well do it right, emerson."

gareth was confused as to why the dude knew his name, because he sure as shit had not told him that. or anything else, really. ever.

but of course eddie knew his name. he knew the names of every kid with musical potential in their school, and he knew them by heart. and gareth emerson had been one he had been keeping his eye on for a while

and though gareth had rolled his eyes when eddie had invited him to a jam sesson (eddie remembered thinking that the kid had an insane, shitty attitude and that was kind of perfect). he hadn't exactly responded, but merely given eddie a death stare that actually made the older guy slightly uncomfortable because why the fuck did this freshman look like he could actually kill someone?

but nevertheless, the kid had shown up to play with corroded coffin, replacing the former drummer that had moved to indianapolis three months ago

and so, gareth emerson and eddie munson sort of became friends. gareth still kept his distance and kept the others guessing, because he despised the idea that he'd be perceived as following someone else's lead. and yeah, maybe the guidance counselor was right in saying he had "authority issues" or whatever the fuck, but he knew that however he chose to be a part of corroded coffin or hellfire, gareth would do it on his own terms

and he did. eventually, he actually did start considering the guys his friends. but he sure as shit never took an order from munson. and if he did, which of course he didn't, it was with gritted teeth and lewd hand gestures

eddie grew incredibly fond of the kid with his troublemaking tendencies and never-ending distaste for "the system". it didn't take long for him to consider gareth to be one of his best friends.

and though gareth never said it out loud, it eventually became mutual. it took six months, maybe a year.

when el hopper and will byers returned to hawkins after joyce byers and jim hopper get together and moved in together, hellfire gains new members. or, you know, one member who actually plays. but el is often there, either with max or with mike, following the game with bright brown eyes. and at first, it's great. new blood, whatever that helps keep the club afloat

then eddie starts to notice the eyes. gareths gaze lingering on the girl for a beat too long at lunch, sneaking an almost non-existent look at her when she left their table or walked by gareth in the hallways. his eyes, man. it's like they're drawn to the girl, following her even when she clings to the side of mike wheeler. during those moments, eddie can swear he sees a flash of annoyance in gareth's eyes, an expression that almost reaches the rest of his features before he catches himself.

then its gareth talking to her. gareth, who usually took around six months to warm up to anyone if you were lucky, the guy who kept even his friends at an arm's length. he's talking to el at lunch, during hellfire, in the hallways. and there's something guilty in his entire being when he does it, the little bastard.

and that's how eddie knows.

well, that, and the fact that gareth is no longer an asshole when el is around. the sarcastic edge of his tone is almost dull whenever he speaks to her, the way he explains dnd to her and offers the rest of his fries to her or whatever weird and completely out of character shit he keeps doing

but, to eddie's surprise, gareth is a man of honor for once. though he seems to indulge in little flirtation with the girl, he still keep his distance whenever mike is around. he doesn't cross the invisible line, which to eddie is unbelievable. gareth had crossed many lines, maybe even a few with girls who weren't exactly single, and maybe he had gotten his nose broken once because of it. ancient history.

but it's still pretty sad to look at the guy pining after the girlfriend of mike wheeler

"you know, im surprised you actually have some honor in you, emerson"

"i have no idea what you're talking about, ed"

"im just saying. if you're gonna pine, do it with some dignity"

that earns eddie a glare so sharp it makes him throws his hands in the air, shaking his head

"i just hope you know what youre doing"

"im not doing anything, dipshit"

"yeah, you'd better fucking not"

and time goes on. and though the group is as close as ever, anyone with eyes can see the relationship between el and mike cracking and straining. gareth might notice it more than the others, but who knows. it's not a surprise to anyone when the couple ends up splitting up, vowing to stay friends.

to eddie's surprise, gareth doesnt swoop in like a vulture. he actully give el space and support. fuck, he must really like the girl.

he does find shitty excuses to talk to her, though. at her locker, at lunch, at hellfire. he's being a good friend to her, to mike. for once in his life, gareth cares about not wanting to be an asshole.

and then one night, it kind of changes. they're hanging out at the wheeler house, the whole gang sprawled across couches and lounge chairs and carpeted floors in the basement, and el looks at gareth across the room. really looks at him, like in a way that pierces the air and makes gareth almost choke on popcorn in a really uncool way. and then el smiles.

gareth definitely chokes on his popcorn

that night, she asks him to walk her home. the byers-hopper house is only ten minutes away, but will is sick at home and el doesnt like walking home alone in the dark. and gareth agrees. of course he agrees.

his hands are shaking a little when they walk home, the ten minute walk stretching into one of 30 minutes. gareth is not a nervous person, so why the fuck is he nervous? they talk about everything and anything, and his hands are fucking shaking when she looks at him.

when they reach her house, gareth (the gentleman, as all of hawkins high knows) walks her to the lit up porch and stalls there, looking at her. it's not the first time he's walked a girl to the porch, but it feels like the first girl that actually matters.

they stay on the porch for around 20 minutes more, gareth leaning against the wooden column. he feels himself leaning closer every now and then, and el doesnt exactly protest. he can swear he sees her shift closer too, close enough to touch, to smell. to taste.

they stand there talking, gareth looming over her, leaning closer. his curls fall over his eyes when he leans so close that he can hear el's breath hitch in her throat. he stops when he's close enough for their noses to touch

"i'd really like to kiss you, but your dad has been staring at me from the window for the past five minutes and i'd really like for my head to stay attached to my body."

and like on cue, chief hopper flicks the porch light on and off a few times, like a warning shot in the quiet night. it makes el and gareth burst into giggles.

a few weeks later, gareth does kiss her. and it's the best thing he's ever fucking done.

#i got carried away holy shit #anyways my gareth is from a broken home and he is a very cliche misfit and i love him #gareth stranger things #gareth emerson #gareth x el #el x gareth #eleven x gareth #gareth x eleven #greatmage #stranger things #stranger things hc #gareth emerson hc

25 notes · View notes

1lostsoul0fishbowl · 5 months ago

Text

These little sweeties, so lovingly captured by @artcake, just have my heart forever 🥰🥰

Guess: is this artwork for an existing fic, or a spoiler alert for the new one? 🤔 let me know what you think!!!

(edit: tagging @hawkinshearts to share my beloved rarepair!)

a little sweetness for @1lostsoul0fishbowl !

Thank you for the commission! I am again caught up in the cuteness

#stranger things fanart #el hopper #gareth emerson #gareth stranger things #gareth x eleven #commissioned art #greatmage #eleverson artwork

28 notes · View notes

1lostsoul0fishbowl · 1 year ago

Text

Next Time I Fall, Chapter 16 posted!

El: so basically I’m a monster, right?

Gareth: ✨ h e a r t 😍 e y e s ✨

Read it here on Ao3!

#stranger things fanfic #el hopper #gareth emerson #eleverson #stranger things rarepair #losty writes: next time #gareth x eleven #eleven x gareth #stranger things fanfiction #background hellcheer

23 notes · View notes

schrijverr · 2 years ago

Text

Page 34-35

Leaving also doesn’t mean never coming back, never witnessing what happens to those who have stayed behind. Moving on, doesn’t mean one can’t look back. It is important to reach back to your past if you want to be a family. Connections are built on memories and keeping up with one another. Many associate breaks with no homework and letting loose, we associate them with meeting up and letting others get to know the new pieces of yourself you have found in the time you were away.

[Under the text on page 34 are three photographs. The first is of Will proudly showing a portrait he painted of Mike. It is highly detailed and many hours went into the work, that much is clear.]

Love Painted

Jonathan Byers, 1988

[The second photograph is of El, showing off two braids in her hair, they look like the kind Nancy taught her how to braid. The smile on her face is blinding.]

The Girl with the Braids

Jonathan Byers, 1988

[The third image is of Joyce and Hopper. Joyce is on a ladder with a hammer and some nails, Hopper is holding it. Together they’re hanging up a rainbow flag on the wall.]

Acceptance

Jonathan Byers, 1988

[Page 35 has two photographs. The upper one is of Corroded Coffin, back then they were still small and performing at the Hideout on breaks, though that doesn’t seem to stop them, from being dressed extravagantly. Eddie has eyeliner tears streaming down his face alongside the sweat. He is mid-head bang, sharing a microphone with Jeff. Gareth has his arms raised high in the background, about to slam down on the drums. Chris is pouring water from a bottle over his face.]

Corroded Coffin Live at the Hideout

Jonathan Byers, 1988

[Beneath it is a photograph of Robin and Steve, they’re seated on the porch of the Munson trailer, both bend over and fiddling with something. Robin is wearing a pair of Steve’s gym shorts and a sports bra, as well as chunky chain necklaces and rings. Steve is in a shirt on which is painted ‘Queer & Here’ in choppy letters, he is also in a pair of gym shorts.]

Making Friendship Bracelets

Jonathan Byers, 1988

<<Prev Next>> AO3

#rr writing #a collection of queer photography by jonathan byers #byler #platonic stobin #jim hopper #joyce x jim #joyce byers #jonathan byers #will byers #eleven hopper #corroded coffin #eddie lives au #eddie munson #steve harrington #robin buckley #jeff stranger things #gareth stranger things #stranger things #st post season 4

12 notes · View notes

1lostsoul0fishbowl · 11 months ago

Note

I love everything about this… especially Will’s side plot (my boy has EVERY RIGHT to be salty lol) and Mike getting temporarily kicked out of Hellfire! And of course I’m a huge fan of charges being pinned on Jason muahaha.

Seriously can’t wait to read this one!!!!

(p.s. only if you want to but please feel free to use “greatmage” as the ship tag if you like the name (created by @naiamauro and I immediately adopted it bc I love it so much) or “eleverson” if you’re like me and you mistakenly believed Emerson was garebear’s canon last name and didn’t find out it wasn’t til way after you’d written an entire Emerson family into your fics 🤣)

oh girl you know I wanna know everything you can share about your Eleven/Gareth fic 😜

lol I know 😝

Okay. Here's what I've got for the overall plot for this one.

This one is set post-season 4. Vecna was successfully defeated. Sullivan and his goons were made to disappear, and higher ups decided to leave El tf alone after Vecna. Eddie survives, and Steve uses family connections to get his name cleared and charges pinned on Jason. The Byers clan plus (obviously) El remain in Hawkins aside from Joyce, Hopper, Jonathan, and Argyle going back to see what can be salvaged from the California house.

Mike starts getting back on his bullshit as things start calming down, and El... with some gentle encouragement from Nancy and Robin, and less gentle very fucking blunt encouragement from Max and Erica... permadumps his ass which makes him go into 'sulky little bitch poor me' mode. Erica, Dustin, and Lucas introduce El and Will to the rest of Hellfire. Instant liking, Eddie immediately adopts El and Will whether they join Hellfire or not. Some sparkage with Gareth and El. Will is a little salty at first over how Dustin, Mike, and Lucas had so readily joined the club when they didn't want to play D&D with him at all the previous summer but joins up anyway... after apologies from Dustin and Lucas b/c Mike's a brat and wouldn't acknowledge his wrongdoing. El is more hesitant when she's invited to try it out too because Mike lied to her yet again at some point prior when she expressed interest and told her D&D was only for boys (which made no sense to her because 'boy' vs 'girl' toys/play etc were never a thing at the lab). When she learns of the lie, she decides to join in out of spite. Mike is predictably a little shit about it, but it's okay because Eddie banishes him from Hellfire as soon as he finds out about the lie, until Mike gets his head out of his ass and makes amends.

Gareth increasingly dislikes Mike the more he learns little by little about how he treated El during their relationship and is determined to woo her and show her how a guy ought to treat a girl, especially one he's romantically interested in. He'd take his time, not wanting to rush her into anything like Mike did, and wanting to develop a solid friendship before actively pursuing her romantically. And El wants to show Gareth she appreciates it all and is interested in him too and starts reciprocating little by little in her own way, with advice from Joyce, Eddie, and Nancy mainly, and a bit from Robin, Steve, and Dustin. [Because we know Max isn't the sappy type, and Erica's got zero interest in dating anyone that we know of.] Not sure yet exactly how Gareth will find out about El's superpowers, but when he does he'll think it's the coolest thing ever and never make her feel like even a little bit of a monster/freak/abnormal about them. Ofc he'd keep the secret too, because he'd want to help her stay safe as best he can.

#stranger things #gareth x eleven #eleth #gareven #greatmage #eleverson

13 notes · View notes

drops-of-june · 4 months ago

Text

CHAPTER V: Breaking The Law

• I don’t own the characters, this fanfic is based on the TV-Show Stranger Things (second season) from a Hargrove!Reader POV.

• Quick reminder to readers, I'm not a english native speaker, so I'm sorry if there are any mistakes. Hope you understand.

• You are not allowed to translate/repost inside or outside tumblr this fanfic.

Summary: Y/n ends up helping some kids with the search for an escaped pet and gets a new job.

Word Count: 2.7K

CHAPTER V: Breaking The Law

Y/n woke up to the sound of the alarm clock. The anxiety she had felt on her first day of school at Hawkins had been alleviated by her new friends - Eddie, Gareth, Jeff and Grant. Their jokes, conversations, and invitation to join their activities had given her a sense of belonging. Y/n got out of bed feeling a mixture of tiredness and excitement. The night before had been intense with band rehearsal and festivities, but now she had to focus again on school.

She had been writing a letter to Sam, Molly and Adam telling them about her first experiences at Hawkins, and although she hadn't intended to write too much, she was almost two pages in. She had been writing a little at a time, ever since she left California, but she wrote most of it last night before bed. She told them mostly about Corroded Coffin, and about the D&D campaign and Lyria's new adventure. About how well they would love Eddie and the rest of the band. Jokingly promising not to replace them so quickly. Finally, she expressed to them how much she missed them and how she wished she could spend some time with them, and also wished them well in California.

When she finished, she sealed the envelope and put it in her backpack so she could mail it later.

After a quick shower, y/n changed into her favorite Crimson Chaos t-shirt and comfy jeans, along with worn converse that had been all written with pens.

Arriving at Hawkins High, y/n headed to her first class, shared with Jeff. Jeff's banter and company made her morning more bearable. In the next class, French, y/n found herself paired for an in-class assignment with a girl a few grades younger named Robin. The girl, despite being somewhat restless and hyperactive, was good at languages and they were the first to hand in their homework.

At the end of class, y/n went to the parking lot accompanied by her new friends and they stayed with her until they each had to go home. Y/n stayed behind waiting for her sister, Max, as usual. However, Max did not show up. Worried, she decided to go look for her at the elementary school.

She entered the school and started walking through the halls, until she found her trying to force open the door to the video room. Her backpack was on the floor, next to her skateboard, and she had a small wire in her hand wedged in the lock. ‘Maxine Mayfield, what are you doing?’ asked y/n, accusingly, her eyes wide with surprise. At the same instant she spoke, the girl had managed to open the door, and at the sound of her voice, she turned to her in surprise.

Before she could scold her, something came out of the room. It was some kind of fat mouse, only its skin looked more like that of a toad. Disgusted, she instinctively lifted her foot, and the animal moved on, heading down another hallway.

Behind the creature, four children came out of the video room trying to catch it, two of them colliding with Max, all three falling to the floor.

'What was that?' asked Max to one of the children.

'Dart! You let him escape!' Said a slim, lanky boy with black hair.

'What is a Dart?' Y/n asked, not receiving an answer.

'Why did you attack him?' Said a curly-haired boy wearing a trucker's cap. 'Don't hurt him!' he demanded, as the rest of the children began to search for the creature. Max followed them, and without knowing why, y/n did too.

She began to search the hallways and corridors, and some classrooms, but there was no sign of the animal. After a few minutes, she found one of the kids, he was dark skinned and had an athletic build. If she was going by what Max had told her, it was probably Lucas. They had received a message from other of the kids on the radio that Dart was in the bathroom, so they all gathered there. Dustin had been the first to arrive, but found nothing.

Y/n squinted at him. Like a good liar, she could smell lies a mile away. The boy adjusted his cap restlessly. She followed the movements with her gaze and he seemed to notice.

'Maybe Will has it.' He commented, trying to avoid y/n's gaze. Before she could ask anything, Mike stared at him and asked in alarm.

'Where's Will?'

They parted down the halls of the school again, but this time to find the boy. Max quickly explained that last year he had gotten lost in the woods, and then y/n understood the urgency in Mike's voice.

After a few minutes, she went out into the playground and began to look around. In the distance, she saw a boy standing on the training field, as she got closer, she recognized it was the little boy they were looking for. He had a bowl-cut brown hair, pale and gaunt, but somehow delicate.

'Will? Your friends are looking for you, they thought you... Will? Are you okay?' she asked, finishing her approach to him. His eyes were closed, but he didn't seem to be listening to her. Mike ran over and started calling out to him as well, getting no response. 'I'll go get help, stay with him' she asked him, Mike nodded. Y/n ran back to the school and met Lucas on the way.

'He's in the courtyard. He seems to be having a... seizure or something' She commented, not knowing how to explain it. Just then, a woman with tousled brown hair and an earnest concerned expression, came through the school door asking for the boy. It must have been his mom. Max and Dustin appeared running from other hallways. Y/n led them to where Will and Mike were, and his mother tried to wake him up, still repeating his name.

Y/n put an arm around Max's shoulders in concern, just watching the scene, unable to do anything. Just as she was about to go for help, the boy opened his eyes. Even though everything seemed normal, both his mother and his three friends still looked worried. As if something else was going on, but neither y/n nor Max received any explanation.

After Will's mother took the boy away, y/n looked at Max and told her they should go home. Max nodded silently, and the two began walking toward the parking lot. During the drive, Max didn't say a word, which worried her sister.

They got into the car and began the drive back. Y/n noticed that Max was still silent, staring out the window with a sullen expression. Finally, she decided to break the silence.

'Are you going to explain to me why you were trying to pick that lock? What's wrong with you, Max?' y/n asked, shooting a quick glance at the girl. Max sighed, crossing her arms.

'It's Mike...' She started to say, hesitantly. 'I resent him pulling me aside when the four of them are together. Like he doesn't want me to be with them.' Y/n frowned, trying to understand.

'You mean him, Dustin, Lucas and Will?' Max nodded. Y/n took a deep breath, trying to find the right words to reassure Max.

'Look, Max, he probably did it because they've been friends for a long time. Sometimes it's hard for people to accept someone new, especially when they have such a tight-knit group.'

Max kept looking out the window, but the eldest could see that she was thinking about what she had said.

'Mike mentioned that there was a girl before in their group.' Y/n nodded, getting a better understanding of the situation.

'That makes sense, in a way… Maybe they're still dealing with the loss of that friend and they're having a hard time accepting someone new in her place. Don't take it personally, Max. Give yourself time and give them time too. You'll have your moment to prove to them that you're worth being their friend.' Max was silent for a few more moments, processing her older sister's words. Finally, she nodded slightly.

'I guess you're right. I just... I just wish they didn't see me as an intruder.' Y/n smiled, trying to cheer her up.

'You're amazing, Max. Don't worry, you'll see that little by little they'll get to know and appreciate you. Just be yourself and everything will be fine.' She advised her. Max smiled slightly, feeling a little better thanks to her sister's words.

Arriving home, y/n felt the need to freshen up after such a hectic day. She headed straight to her room, grabbed her clean clothes and jumped into the shower. The hot water helped her relax and clear her mind. After a few minutes, she changed her clothes and left her room, ready for a new mission. She went downstairs and found her father, Neal, sitting in the living room watching TV.

'Dad, can I talk to you for a moment?' she asked, trying to sound as casual as possible. Neal looked at his daughter and nodded.

'Sure, y/n. What's up?' y/n took a breath and jumped in.

'You see... A classmate of mine at school told me they're taking people to work at the local movie theater. I'd like to go and apply for a job. It would be great to have a little extra money, like I did at the movie theater in San Diego... If you don't mind, of course.'

Neal frowned, considering the proposal. For him, it meant he'd have to spend less money on y/n's whims, and besides, he'd know where she was after school, which gave him some peace of mind. Y/n knew it was rather controlling, but she didn't mind.

'Well, as long as you keep your grades up in school, I don't see why not,' Neal said finally. 'Go ahead and apply. But remember, your studies are the most important thing. Oh, and you'll still have to bring Max home from school,' he reminded her. The blonde smiled, feeling relieved.

'Yes, of course. I promise. Thanks.' Neal nodded and turned his attention back to the television, as y/n prepared to leave. 'I'll be back later.' She said by way of greeting, ruffling Max's hair as she walked past her and punched Billy's arm who looked at her with a smirk.

Working after school wasn't a financial necessity for y/n. In California she had done it as just another excuse to be away from home longer. As it happened, Neal thought it was a good idea for her to work, so that she would have more busy time to hang around with her friends. So that way, he was killing two birds with one stone.

After parking in front of the movie theater, she looked in the reflection of the mirror to check her appearance. She was dressed more soberly than usual, but it still represented her. Light jeans, her combat boots, and a plain red T-shirt with white details on the short sleeves and collar, paired with her old leather jacket.

As she walked through the doors, the aroma of freshly popped popcorn was the first thing that hit her, enveloping her in a warm welcome. It was a buttery, salty, slightly sweet smell that always managed to make her smile. In the candy area, the smell of melted chocolate and gumdrops made her think of afternoons in California, where she had worked before.

Her eyes roamed the lobby until they stopped on a boy behind the concessions counter, clearly frustrated with a soda machine. His messy blond hair fell over his forehead as he bent over, trying to solve the problem. The girl smiled, remembering her own days in California when she worked in a similar movie theater.

"Damn it, why aren't you working?" the boy exclaimed, pounding on the machine in frustration.

She approached with a calm smile. "Do you need help?" She asked, leaning slightly over the counter. The boy, wearing a name badge that read "Kyle," looked up, his expression one of relief mixed with surprise.

"As a matter of fact, yes," Kyle replied, stepping aside to give him room. "The machine got stuck and I can't get it to work properly."

After asking his permission to go around the other side of the counter, she examined the machine quickly and noticed that the syrup dispenser was clogged.

‘Sometimes the syrup dispenser gets clogged,’ She explained, inspecting the device. ‘I worked in a movie theater in California, so I've dealt with this before.’ She took off her jacket and laid it on the counter and, with skill and speed, disassembled the top of the machine. She found the blockage, a buildup of dried syrup that was preventing proper flow. Patiently, she cleared the blockage, making sure not to damage any of the delicate parts. Then she reassembled the machine and tested it. The soda came out perfectly.

‘Wow, you've got to teach me how to do that!’ the boy said, visibly relieved. ‘Thanks. Hey, as a thank you, how about a free ticket for today? My treat.’ Y/n smiled and shook her head.

"Actually, I'm here looking for a job, do you think you could help me with that?’

The boy, both surprised and relieved, nodded quickly. ‘Definitely! The girl who was in charge before, Keri, left and I can't handle everything like she did. If you want to start right now, it would be a big help.’ The blonde eagerly agreed.

‘Sure, why not?’ Relieved, Kyle showed her the basics of the job. ‘Well, it's not much different than what we had in San Diego,’ she commented, glancing around at the layout of the concessions area and the lobby. Kyle nodded.

‘You're probably not going to serve the same amount of people as you would in the big city, but it's still pretty busy, especially on the weekends. Hawkins doesn't have a lot of entertainment options, so the movie theater is pretty popular.’ Y/n looked around the place as Kyle explained the daily chores. ‘Here's the popcorn. Make sure you keep the machines full and the butter replenished. We also have candy on that shelf over there and cold snacks in the cooler over there.’ He showed her how to operate the cash register, although y/n was already familiar with the system. ‘And here are the cups for the refreshments. If the machine ever breaks down again, you'll know how to fix it, which is great because, honestly, I suck at it.’

Y/n laughed lightly, and with a precise and respectful gesture, she brought her index finger to her forehead in a salute that conveyed a clear 'at your service'. Kyle smiled back.

‘Well... There's not much more to it than that. With your experience, I think you'll adapt quickly. And if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask me.’ Finally, he offered her an apron that identified them as employees.

Y/n felt excited as she prepared for her first shift at the Hawkins movie theater. Dressed in the black apron over her clothes, she headed toward the concessions area where Kyle was waiting for her.

‘Ready for your first day?’ asked Kyle with a smile. Y/n nodded.

‘Definitely.’

The shift progressed smoothly. Y/n quickly got used to the pace of the Hawkins movie theater. Although it was less crowded than her old job in San Diego, there was a steady stream of customers, especially families and teenagers who came to see the latest movies. As the hours passed, she began to feel more relaxed and comfortable in her new surroundings. She served customers with a smile, enjoying the small interactions and conversations. When the shift ended, y/n and Kyle took over closing duties, cleaning up the concessions area and making sure everything was in order for the next day.

‘Good job today,’ Kyle said as they closed the theater. ‘And thanks again for saving me today.’

‘You’re welcome, thank you too," y/n replied, feeling satisfied with how everything had gone. After arranging their schedules for the week, where they decided that she would work Mondays through Fridays after school, until twenty-one. Since she was still a minor, and could not have any more workload, she would have weekends off.

Arriving home, y/n found that Max had left her some P&B sandwiches on the table with a note. With a smile, she took the plate and went to her room. She lay down on her bed, and ate the sandwiches while she did her homework. When she felt that her eyes could no longer stay open, she put things aside and covered herself with the blanket, falling asleep almost instantly.

7 notes · View notes

tooearlyforthis · 7 months ago

Text

Help Me Help You

Pairing: Steve Harrington x reader

Synopsis: (12.6k wc) Steve can't always admit when he needs help - which is why Robin is there to tell him. Weeks of therapy and he feels like he's gotten nowhere. So what happens when his therapist recommends a group session? What if he recognizes someone there?

Warnings: fluff, angst, mental health - anxiety, depression, panic attacks, mentions of loss, therapy, mentions of SA

masterlist || steve harrington taglist

This is a little different than what I usually post but I started writing this when I wasn't in the best place and I found it helped a lot. A lot of this stuff I've been through but if there is any feedback you guys have to portray the things discussed better please reach out!

“And how has that shaped you?”

The words echoed in Steve’s ears. He had heard it, comprehended the question; but his mind drifted far away. The grey carpet floor beneath him held no value, but he couldn’t look away. Why did he think therapy was a good idea?

Dr. Ackerman shifted in her seat, her pencil tapping against a notebook in her lap. “Steve,” she said sternly. He only mumbled a response, picking his head up. “How did not getting into college shape you?”

It sounded more like an interview question than anything else. Something a mid-level employee would ask him as he sat in the front of the store, nerves taking over his whole body.

He propped his foot up on one knee, trying to think of an answer quickly. “Uh more resilience, I guess?”

Nodding, Dr. Ackerman wrote on her notepad. “Care to elaborate?”

“I don’t know, that kind of life wasn’t meant for me. It made me move on to better things.” He tried not to tap his fingers against his thigh - a nervous tick he had developed over the years.

“And why do you think that life, going to college, wasn’t for you?”

He tried to think of a way to justify his answer. Telling the truth wasn’t an option, despite it being the reason he sought out counseling.

She leaned forward, letting her hands drift over her knees. “This won’t work if you’re not open, Steve.”

Shit how did she know?

Leaning back Dr. Ackerman continued, “I want you to come this weekend to sit in on a group session with my other patients. See how talking about what’s wrong may help you.”

“I don’t know –“ he began, already hesitant on her suggestion.

Putting up a hand, she silenced him. “No fighting. You need to commit, Stephen.”

The mention of his full name stung, a friendly reminder that she was older, wiser – a person who knew what was best for him.

“Trust me. This will help.”

Something smelled good. Way too good.

It floated through his house, filling every crevice despite the absence of bodies. It made him feel safe, an unfamiliar sensation to him from the last few years. Following the smell, he walked into the kitchen. Robin was standing over the stove, a paper towel gripped over her arm.

“What did you do?” He asked, announcing his presence.

He wasn’t surprised to see her. More and more the past few weeks she had been spending time at his house, even taking up a semi permanent room upstairs.

She turned around, her face softening from a scowl. “Just burned my arm with oil. I think I put too much in the pan.” Steve chuckled. “How did it go?”

Shedding his jacket, he sat down at the counter. “It was fine. She wants me to do group therapy this weekend.”

“Do you think it will help?”

He shrugged, not knowing his true answer. Out of all the people in their little party of monster fighters, Steve experienced some of the worst. From getting beat up more times that he could count, to getting tortured by Russians, he was in desperate need of help.

But part of him still thought he didn’t when there were always others that would need him. His brain would spiral. To thoughts of the kids, hoping another gate hadn’t opened up; to Joyce and Hopper, wondering if someone would come back looking for them. But as the PTSD of his past caught up to him, it felt like the only viable option.

“What are you cooking?” he asked, diverting the conversation.

“Chicken,” Robin replied. “I mean, it’ll probably taste like shit. But it’s been a while since we had a proper meal, ya know?”

He nodded. “Yeah it has been…don’t worry though it actually smells really good. I think I’m going to take a nap before we eat if that’s okay? Just tired from this –”

“ – you don’t have to explain. I understand.”

He smiled at her – a genuine smile. Nowadays it felt like every emotion he felt was being forced, a sign to tell the others he was okay. But Robin had a way of bringing out his true self. She understood him in ways no one else in his life did. From the moment they went crashing down in that Russian elevator, they were linked at the hip - a single mind working cohesively.

Entering his bedroom, he felt immediate relief. It was a sense of safety, like a big blanket wrapping him in a warm hug. Sinking into the mattress he let sleep take him, hoping to not wake up from the horror of his dreams.

The weekend came sooner than Steve would have liked. He didn’t feel ready to walk into group therapy, no matter how much he tried to prepare himself. The unknown scared him, even when it came to just talking about his feelings.

Robin offered to drive him. He was reluctant at first since she had only had her license for a year. But the session was a couple of towns over and she knew how his mind would run if he was alone in his car.

Pulling up to the building, she let the car roll to a stop. The engine continued to rumble in Steve’s ears, his heart matching the irregular pattern. It was like he was riding up a roller coaster, the top never coming into sight. He shut his eyes, trying to wish the feeling away.

Robin placed a hand gently on his shoulder, grounding him back to reality. “Hey,” she began. “Everything’s gonna be alright.”

Nodding, he unbuckled his seat belt and grabbed the water bottle he had brought. “Thanks for driving, Rob.”

“Of course. I’ll be here when you get out.”

With one last breath, he said to himself, “All right, let’s do this.”

He opened the car door, letting the cold air hit his face as he climbed out. It felt nice, like a wake-up call he so desperately needed.

“You got this!” Robin exclaimed from the rolled-down window.

He smiled, watching as she drove off before turning back to the big brick building in front of him. It was a different place from his usual sessions with Dr. Ackerman. But as he entered the building, he found it felt eerily similar. Was every therapist's office decorated the same? From the off-grey carpet to the leather sofa, it felt like a place he had been before. It helped calm his emotions just a smidge.

“Can I help you, sweetie?” He turned to the lady behind the front counter.

“Uh, yeah I’m here for Dr. Ackerman’s group session?”

“Follow me,” she said with a warm smile.

The lady moved from her place behind the counter to open the door at the other end of the room. Closely, he followed her down the narrow hallway. His heart began to race, wondering how he could talk about his traumas without revealing the supernatural. It was hard to do with one person but a whole group? He might as well sew his mouth shut.

“Here you are sweetie,” the lady said, swinging open a door.

He barely had time to thank her before the door was shut behind him, leaving him alone in a room of strangers. Well, strangers plus one person he never thought he’d see again; Y/N L/N. She was sitting in a chair, arms crossed in an oversized sweatshirt and leggings. It was very different from how he remembered her in high school.

From the few classes they shared and the occasional hellos in the hallway, he knew she was a pretty friendly, put-together person. She was always kind to people, despite the unfriendly rumors about how many notches were on her bedpost. Last he heard, she was heading off to some Ivy League school after graduation. So what was she doing sitting in on this therapy group?

He wanted to talk to her, to reconnect even though they were never close to begin with. Her eyes were glued to the hem of her sweatshirt, pinching at it in boredom. Then she looked up, scanning the room before her eyes landed on him. Her breath hitched for a moment as Steve saw her realize who he was.

Wanting to talk to her, he stepped forward. Before he could even make it an inch, Dr. Ackerman’s voice pulled him away.

“Mr. Harrington,” she greeted him. “Glad to see you could join us. Please, take a seat.”

Giving a polite smile, he stole a glance at Y/N one more time. She was already looking down at the floor, back to pulling on the strings of her pullover.

As the therapy season began and people began to speak, Steve found himself barely paying attention. He went into this session hoping to get the most out of it, to really take in and listen to what people had to say. But that was before he saw Y/N. Shy and still undeniably cute, Y/N.

He wanted to hear her story, not the strangers they were surrounded by. He wanted to know why she was here, not in New Jersey, and what could have happened in her life that made her need therapy in the first place. Steve knew his past was fucked up but from an outsider’s perspective, it never seemed like hers was.

Unlucky for him, she barely spoke the entire session. There was the occasional nod or spoken agreement, but she never elaborated on any subject brought up. The minute Dr. Ackerman announced their time was over, and before he could even talk to her, she was gone. Out the door and out of his life.

Steve slumped back into his chair, feeling defeated. He didn’t know why he felt so down. She was never a close friend to him, even at the height of them interacting in school. He got up to leave, hoping to catch her outside when he heard Dr. Ackerman called his name. Begrudgingly, he turned around to face her.

“So, what did you think?” she asked.

“I uh, don’t really know,” he responded truthfully.

“Then I want you to come back next weekend. And try to talk more, okay? You get out of it what you put in.”

Nodding, he gave her a goodbye. He rushed out the door, hoping to catch Y/N before she left. But alas, he was too late. Everyone had gone for the day. The only person left was Robin, patiently waiting in the car next to the curb.

“How’d it go?” She asked, as he stepped into the car.

“Fine,” he replied, as he played with the hem of his shirt. “I uh… saw Y/N L/N. Remember her?”

“I think so. Pretty sure we had chem together. Wait, wasn’t she some big shot? Going off to Princeton or something?”

Steve shrugged. “I guess not anymore.”

Robin gave an inquisitive hum in lieu of a reply. He stared out the window as she drove, partly thinking of how much Robin’s driving had improved. But mostly, his mind was filled with thoughts of Y/N and how he couldn’t wait to see her again.

Steve made sure to arrive extra early for the group session the following week. He walked into the office complex, moving his way through the halls to the familiar door with Dr. Ackerman’s plaque across the front. With one last deep breath, he went in.

The receptionist recognized him, letting him go into the therapy room with no problem. “Dr. Ackerman isn’t here yet but make yourself comfortable,” she told him.

“Thanks,” he replied softly, watching her close the door behind him.

When he turned around again, he was greeted with semi-familiar faces staring back at him. He scanned the room; no Y/N in sight. Giving a weak smile, he sat down in the same seat from last week.

He could tell the others' eyes were on him, trying to get a read on the newbie. There weren’t many people there but it sure felt like a lot. A boy, probably around his age, a slightly older woman dressed very professionally, and an older lady that he had to guess was a few years away from a retirement home.

“Hey,” the younger boy said, causing Steve to look up. “I’m Matt.” Steve replied with only his name, not knowing what else to say. Matt motioned to the woman in her late 20s wearing almost a business suit. “That’s Sam, and grandma over there is Louise. She could drop dead any minute so be on the lookout.”

“Matt!” Sam exclaimed, hitting his arm. “Don’t say that.”

“It’s alright, sweetie,” Louise calmed her. “He can say anything he wants as long as he remembers that I know where he lives, and I own a gun.”

Steve’s eyes went wide, his shoulders stiffening. Did that old woman just threaten him? Matt bursted out laughing. It was clear the group was comfortable with that sort of joking around. He turned back to a very tense Steve. “What are you here for?”

“You don’t have to answer that.” Sam told him..

“It’s complicated,” Steve said honestly. “I-I’m not really sure how I would explain it anyways.”

“Oooh,” Matt cooed. “Are you in a love triangle?”

“No I –”

“Family abandon you?”

“Well –”

“Oh I got it!” He interrupted again, sitting up straighter in his chair. “You got bit by a rabies infected bat and turned into a vampire.”

Steve tensed. How did he– it was obviously a joke. Not anything to take seriously so Steve decided to play along. “Actually, you’re not that far off.”

Matt chuckled, looking over at Sam who let out a small laugh as well. “I like you. You’re gonna fit in just fine.”

“Okay…” Steve said hesitantly, not knowing quite what he meant.

The door softly clicked open, everyone turning to look who it was. Steve sucked in a breath when he realized it was Y/N. She was wearing something similar to last week, a pair of jeans and a sweater two sizes too big. The room was small enough that as she scanned the environment, her eyes locked with his.

Steve heard the others greeting her as she stepped further into the room, but his gaze was still fixed on her. Quickly, Y/N looked down, her hair falling gently over her face. He couldn’t help but feel a little hurt. Maybe she realized that they would be seeing more of each other; maybe she didn’t want to see him at all. He watched as she walked to an open seat, setting her bag down at her feet.

Steve wanted to speak, to say something to Y/N even though he didn’t know what. Cursed again, Dr. Ackerman bursted into the room. “Sorry I’m late,” she announced. “Let’s get started.”

Even though his mind was filled with thoughts of Y/N, he did manage to listen in more to the problems of his fellow group members. Matt was from a couple towns over attending the state college. His anxiety got the best of him and he had a falling out with his best friend. Sam was an elementary school teacher who suffered from PTSD from her younger years traveling as a military brat. And Louise was grieving the loss of her son - a car accident from a few months prior. He listened in more, taking in the symptoms and coping mechanisms they used. Some of the things they said sounded familiar, things that he could learn from his own terrifying experiences.

Once Louise, recounted her past week, how it felt in the wake of her son’s death, Dr. Ackerman turned to him.

“Steve,” she said suddenly, taking him off guard from sneaking a look at Y/N. “You've experienced some loss in your life as well?” He nodded, not knowing where this was going. “Would you like to share a recent experience you had? Maybe the group has some coping skills to help you.

Suddenly all the eyes were on him. He felt violated, talking in front of people he barely knew for two days. But in the words of Dr. Ackerman, it wasn’t going to help if he didn’t contribute.

He began to speak, choosing his words very carefully. “Um yeah I guess I’ve been surrounded by loss, more so in the past couple of years.”

He felt Y/N look up at him, sympathy in her stare. It gave him the courage to continue.

“First it was my ex’s best friend. I didn’t know her well but she was last seen at my house so, I guess I blame myself for that? My friend, his mom’s boyfriend passed away, as well as another friend’s older brother…but more recently, a-a new friend. We had only just met… he uh, played a lot of Dungeons and Dragons.”

He looked over at Y/N again who was still staring at him, her sympathy replaced with something else - something he couldn’t quiet. Fright? No, recognition.

“I think of him sometimes– the new friend,” Steve clarified, glancing down at his fingers tapping against his thigh. “We only knew each other for a short while but he was a good dude…I see stuff around town sometimes that reminds me of him and I feel like I’m back- “

In the Upside Down.

“In a dark place,” he opted to say instead.

When he looked up at the group, he felt relieved. They all looked at him with a sense of understanding, like they knew what he was going through. Hell, after what he heard today they probably were.

“I see,” Dr. Ackerman began. “So group, what can Steve do?”

“Well, I find the 54321 method helpful,” Sam said.

Matt pointed at her. “I was about to say the same thing.”

“The 54321 method?” Steve asked, hoping they would explain further.

“Y/N,” Dr. Ackerman said. She looked up at her. “Would you mind explaining to Steve what this coping skill is?”

Steve looked over at her hesitantly. “Uh sure,” she said, sitting up straighter. She was trying to look at him but her eyes fell back to her lap. “You count five things you can see around you, four things you can feel… uh three things you can hear. Two you can smell and one you can taste.”

“Very good Y/N.”

She looked up at him one last time, her gaze holding longer than usual and Steve felt like she could take his breath away.

“And have you been using those methods yourself?” Dr. Ackerman asked.

She tore her gaze away from Steve, looking back at their therapist. “I-I’ve been trying.”

“Well that’s a step forward right? Effort is all I can ask for. Now Steve,” she directed her attention back to her. “Those were great examples, but not the one I was looking for.”

“It wasn’t?”

“What about your parents?”

He shook his head. “My parents aren’t dead.”

“But are they around often?” Steve froze. She knew they weren’t. Where was she going with this? Shaking his head, she continued. “Couldn’t that count as a form of loss? The loss of parental figures?”

He remained silent. Could it?

“Loss is not just death, Steve. It can take on many forms.”

Shit, he hadn’t thought of it that way. How much in his life had he truly lost? His parents, his friends, his reputation… Before he could even begin to process what that meant, Dr. Ackerman moved on to Matt who talked about his recent split from his best friend. But Steve was still in his own mind. His own thoughts drowning out the voices of the people around him.

Maybe he needed therapy more than he cared to admit.

Before Steve knew it, the session was over and he was making his way out of the room, the thought of loss still very much present in his mind. He didn’t realize how much therapy would actually help him. Though mental health was something more and more people were beginning to talk about, it still had a lot of negative stereotypes. One wrong step and you could end up in a psychiatric ward without really needing it.

Trying to give his brain a break, Steve shifted his focus to Y/N and how he desperately wanted to try and talk to her. But yet again, Dr. Ackerman stopped him. “So, how are you liking the group?”

“A lot better than last week,” he replied, watching a small smile form on her face.

“Good. That’s really good, Steve.”

“Can I…keep coming to this group? On top of our sessions?”

She nodded. “That was the plan all along. See you later this week.”

“See you, Dr. Ackerman.”

Despite the heavy topic of the session, the moment Steve stepped outside, it was like a weight had been lifted off of his shoulders. The air felt nice, so crisp on his skin it was like a fresh glass of water. He was reluctant to admit that Dr. Ackerman was right, but the lady knew her stuff.

Looking around, he noticed Robin hadn’t arrived yet. Everybody else was gone, or so he thought.

“I didn’t know that about your parents.”

Steve turned around to find Y/N leaning against a wall, a cigarette between her fingers. There was no need for introductions, they both had remembered each other – it was just a matter of who would speak first.

“Uh, yeah,” Steve began to respond, shoving his hands in his pockets. He spent so long building up the moment they would speak again that when the time came, he felt frozen. Like a deep in headlights. Making his way over to her, he continued, “Most people don’t.”

She nodded, taking a puff of the cigarette. As she breathed out, a cloud of smoke followed, slowly floating above them. Steve tried not to wince at the smell. “Want one?” she offered.

“No thanks, I quit last year.”

Her eyebrows raised, surprised. Slowly she shrugged. “That makes one of us.”

Not knowing what to do, Steve looked around, trying his best to find something for them to talk about besides the obvious. Unfortunately, he came up with nothing. “I thought you went off to college.”

“I did,” she said before mumbling, “Until Gary entered the picture.”

“Who’s Gary?”

Not responding, she puffed out more smoke. It was clearly a touchy subject and Steve knew all too well about those.

“I-I’m happy you’re here though.”

She scoffed. “Really?”

He nodded. “I wished we stayed in touch when school was over.”

“Hate to break it to you, Harrington, but I didn’t consider us friends.”

“I mean, me neither. But I remember you being one of the few people that called me on my bullshit – could see through my lies…I need more people like that in my life.”

She stared at him, her cigarette still loosely hanging between fingers. He didn’t know what she was thinking, what she was searching for in his comment. Maybe the truth? To see if he was lying? Before either of them could say anymore a honk echoed across the parking lot. Steve turned to see Robin pulling up to the curb. She rolled down the window as she parked.

“That’s my ride,” Steve said, slowly backing away. “You remember Buckley? Another Hawkins High survivor.”

“Yeah, hey,” Y/N said, giving a small wave.

Robin waved back and said, “Oh hey, yeah we had chem together right?” Y/N nodded.

“I’ll uh, see you next week?” Steve said, turning back to her one more time.

“Uh, yeah. Yes.” She took another puff. “See you next week.”

With one last wave, he climbed into the car, watching Y/N become a speck in the side-view mirror as they drove away.

“So,” Robin began, “You finally talked to her?”

“More like she talked to me but, yeah,” he responded.

“She’s different from what I remember. Tougher, less open to people. I didn’t know you were close.”

“We weren’t.”

Watching as his house turned into view, all he could think about was seeing her the following week.

“Why are we going to the other side of town again? Why can’t we just go to the burger place down the street?” Dustin asked, leaning forward from the backseat of Steve’s car.

“It’ll be fun!” Robin said, arching her head to look back at him.

“What’s the place called again?” Lucas asked.

“Gordy’s,” Mike responded. “Stupid if you ask me.”

Usually in these types of scenarios, Steve would be the one to call them on their bullshit. To be the babysitter that steps up to make things right. However, because of more recent events, instead of stepping up, he was slipping away.

Robin noticed almost instantly, jumping in to control the situation when her friend couldn’t.

“Hey!” She shouted, cutting off the chatter from the back. “Yes, the diner is called Gordy’s. Yes it’s on the other side of town. And we are going because Max likes it and she used to go with her family. Right Max?”

“Y-yeah,” Max spoke up from the back. “It’s pretty good, I think you guys would like it.”

“I’m excited,” El said, getting an agreement from Will.

Little chatter soon broke into more chaos, the kids talking over each other without a care in the world. Steve wanted to say something, his grip on the steering wheel tightening in an effort to stop feeling the anxiety running through his chest. But still, it was too much. He needed to focus on the road.

“See? El’s excited,” Robin chimed in again. “Quit your yapping, we're almost there.”

Almost on cue, they turned into the Gordy's parking lot. Steve took a deep breath as the chatter in the back started to die down. He could almost hear his thoughts again, though he didn’t know if that would be a good thing.

As the kids began to pile out of the car, he felt Robin’s hand on his shoulder.

“Hey,” she said. “Deep breaths, remember? If it gets too bad, do that thing you learned okay? The 123 method.”

“54321 method,” he corrected.

“Yeah, the 54321 method.” She watched as he nodded, taking another deep breath. “Hey,” she willed him to look at her. “You’re doing great. You ready to go in or do you need a minute?”

“No, I’m good…” It wasn’t until they were standing right outside the doors, the kids already packed into a booth that he spoke again. “Sorry about that, I can’t control it sometimes-”

“You never have to explain yourself,” she interrupted him, grabbing one of his hands. “Never.”

Steve felt this warm haze travel through him, his chest expanding with what felt like a clean breath of air. Sometimes hearing that there was someone there for him was enough to keep him going. Squeezing her hand back, he motioned that he was ready.

It was easy to navigate to where the kids had decided to sit – noise only coming from one side of the diner. Of course, they were arguing. It was about some movie that had just come out though both of the older teens couldn’t quite place which one.

“Zip it!” Steve shouted over them, standing at the edge of the diner booth. They all abruptly stopped to look at him. It was the first real words he had muttered all night. “Pick what you want to eat. We’re not spending an hour deciding like last time.”

Dustin smiled at his words. Sure, they were kinda mean, but when Steve got bitchy that meant he was alert.

Sliding into the booth across from Robin, Steve picked up a menu. The options were like any other establishment, and the kids were quick to decide what they wanted. When it came down to it, their orders didn’t really change much from diner to diner. It was the talking that made their visits longer. But Steve liked to mix it up from time to time, especially when eating with Robin - they often split meals.

So when the waiter came over to take their orders, he was happy they didn’t have to send the guy away. With El eager to get her waffles, she went first, Mike going straight after her. Steve guessed that meant he would be last. He took the moment he had to look around the diner Max had selected.

It was nice, much nicer than the other places they had tried but that wasn’t saying much. Midwest towns with small populations meant slow repairs. The floors looked a little wet but that was probably from the amount of people walking through with the recent storm. The coffee machine was out of order and by the looks of it, it had been that way for at least a month.

Besides that, not much was out of place. There was an elderly couple sitting at the counter top across the place. Slowly they traced their fingers along a spread out newspaper Steve had to guess was an attempt at the crossword puzzle. But his eyes slowly drifted away from the puzzle and onto the waitress putting down their food.

It was Y/N. Blue apron, hair pulled back to not obscure her face.

His breath hitched when he saw her. It was so unexpected, seeing her in a place like this. She looked so calm, almost happy. He hadn’t seen her like that since their senior year. It made him wonder what had gone so wrong, what this “Gary” did to make her dropout of college. And even though he wouldn’t find that answer tonight, he couldn’t stop himself from staring at her.

As she smiled at her customers, her eyes scanned the diner. Looking for more people to help, her eyes landed on him. There was some shock, the unexpectedness of seeing him, but she forced a smile on her face.

“Steve!”

He was pulled out of his daze by Robin, motioning to the waiter standing before them.

“W-what would you like to drink?” the waiter asked again, though Steve swore he never heard him the first time.

“Uh, just water, thanks,” he said sheepishly, his cheeks turning red from embarrassment.

The waiter, however, just nodded, walking over to where Y/N stood. Steve let his eyes follow him, watching the coworkers engage in conversation before Robin spoke again.

“That’s her, right?” she whispered, not wanting the kids to hear. He nodded. “You should go talk to her.”

He whipped his head around to look at her. “What? No.”

“Why not?”

Because my anxiety will make me fuck up my sentences.

“Because she’s working,” he said instead. “I don’t wanna interrupt her.”

“Please, it’s so dead in here she would probably thank you.”

“Who are you talking about?” said Dustin, trying to worm his way into the conversation.

“No one,” Steve said quickly. “Do your maze.”

He looked down at the kids menu in front of him. “I’m not a child!” he exclaimed.

“Maybe, but you love those mazes.”

He took one look at Steve before back down at his menu. Sighing in defeat he said, “Okay yeah I do…”

It was a new record. Almost an entire day without a panic attack. The food had arrived, the kids eating like it was their last meal on earth. Meanwhile Robin took the time to neatly split her and Steve’s food in half, handing him one of the plates.

He smiled at her before diving in. Well, more like inching in. He didn’t feel too hungry, despite not eating at all that day. That was the main reason for this little outing - to get him to eat food. But as the night went on and his food was still barely touched, he knew that something deeper was happening.

Ever since he started therapy, he had been getting better at spotting anxiety and panic attacks, even preventing a few which he was proud of. But some would start for no reason, even if he was feeling better than he had all day. Something began to rise in his chest and he knew one was coming. Apparently, Robin did too.

Over the noise of the kids debating over some new comic book, Robin asked, “Are you okay?”

“Yeah,” Steve dismissed out of instinct. “Just gonna go to the bathroom.”

He quickly stood up, not waiting for a response. The bathroom was unlocked thankfully and looked a little disgusting. Still, he had been in worst places. Staring at the faucet he cupped his hands, splashing water on his face.

Sometimes that helped, giving his body a wake up call it didn’t know it needed. But unfortunately, it wasn't working. He felt his breaths become shorter, more labored. His heart felt like someone was squeezing it in their hands.

He needed fresh air. Yeah, fresh air would help.

Exiting the bathroom, he was thankful to see there was a back door just a few feet away. Pushing through he was met with the cold crisp air of the back of the diner. There was some air conditioner blowing so loud he could barely hear his own thoughts.

Picking what looked to be a clean wall, he sat down, trying to take deep breaths. His hands still shook, not slowing down despite his efforts. Nothing was working and he didn’t know why. What had even caused this panic attack? There was nothing he was scared or really anxious about to warrant this level of panic.

He tried to remember what Dr. Ackerman told him in one of their private sessions. Sometimes panic attacks don’t need a reason for happening.

“Harrington?”

He willed himself to look up at who was calling his name. It was Y/N, a cigarette in her hand. Perfect, just great. This is exactly how he wanted her to see him.

“Oh, hey,” he tried to say casually, trying to mask his attack. They could both tell it wasn’t working.

“Are you doing okay?”

He could tell it was more of a rhetorical question and he was too tired to lie. “I- not really. I don’t know what happened I just-”

“Hey it’s okay,” she interrupted him, crouching down to be at eye level with him. “We all get them okay?”

He nodded though his heart still felt like it was beating out of his chest. “I-I can’t stop it.”

“Have you done the method yet?” He shook his head. “Okay,” she continued, throwing her cigarette to the side before fully sitting down in front of him cross legged. “Let’s go through it, yeah?”

“Aren’t you working?”

“I’m on my break. Don’t worry about that, let’s help you okay? Name five things you can see.”

“O-okay…” he said, taking a deep breath. “Um, my shoes, those plants ... .uh the-the ground. I can see the wall and- your eyes. Shit- sorry that was weird,” he said, curling back into the wall.

“No, don’t apologize,” she told him, reaching out her hand to cover his. “Describe them to me. What do my eyes look like?”

He looked up at her - there was no hint of mockery in her face. “Well, they're vibrant, they’re a couple of different shades…they're beautiful.”

She smiled at him, not disgusted or annoyed, but genuine happiness. She chuckled, dropping her head for a moment, thanks… Now, let’s continue…”

They listed more things, following the method. With each concentration, the hold on his heart loosened more and more. He couldn’t tell if the method was working or he just liked to be in her company. Whatever it was, it worked.

As he listed off the taste of his meal, he felt like he could finally breathe. Sighing, he let his back hit the wall.

“Thanks for that,” he said, closing his eyes. He could still feel the pads of her fingers gently rubbing his hand.

She responded, not letting go. “Of course, we have to look out for each other.” In the distance, someone called her name. “Shit, my break is over. You think you’ll be okay?”

“Yeah, I think so.”

Slowly she stood back up. “I uh, guess I’ll see you this weekend.” She gave a small wave, not waiting for a response as she scurried back inside for the remainder of her shift.

As he watched her walk away, he felt the urge to call her back. Her presence, the way she calmed him down - it wasn’t something he wanted to let go of. Begrudgingly, he stood up, knowing that his friends would be wondering where he was soon. He walked through the same back door, passing the bathroom before finding his friends still in the diner booth.

Robin spotted him first as he made his way over - it seemed like the others barely even noticed his absence. “Are you okay? You look pale,” she asked.

Usually he would lie, say he was fine and tough through his emotions. But as Dr. Ackerman and later Robin told him, he needed to be more honest with his well being.

“I don’t think so. Could we skip the ice cream run tonight?”

“Of course, yeah. Let’s get going, I already paid for the food.” She turned to the kids. “Alright, let’s get you guys home.”

“What about ice cream?” Dustin asked, followed by overlapping replies from the rest of the kids.

“Not tonight. Maybe next week.”

With solemn looks on their faces, the kids slowly climbed out of the diner booth, ready to pile back into the car. Steve watched as Robin unlocked the door, letting them all climb in. While doing so, he turned back, hoping to catch Y/N one more time.

She emerged from the back with two plates of food, locking eyes with him. She gave him a smile and he already felt a million times better. Nodding at her with a grin, she knew he meant it as a thank you.

Turning around, he made his way to the car, hoping that another attack wouldn’t happen when she wasn’t there.

For the first time since starting therapy, Steve Harrington could say he was satisfied with his progress. He had another panic attack later that week and was able to not only realize the source of it, but calm himself down in record time. Well, record time for him, at least.

Leaving Dr. Ackerman’s office, he waved goodbye to the other patients before making a b-line to the bathrooms. His bladder was not happy about the wait. After relieving himself, he opened the door to leave.

“Do you usually hang out with that many kids?”

“Gah!” Steve jumped, not knowing that Y/N was standing outside smoking a cigarette like she was usually seen. “Jeez, you scared me.”

He began to walk to the building exit, her joining at his side. “Sorry, but you gotta answer the question, Harrington. It’s been bugging me since I saw you.”

Pushing open the exit doors, he said, “Uh they’re my friends so, yeah I usually hang out with them.”

“But children?”

“They aren’t random children, okay? But yeah, they're who I’m close with,” he shrugged. “Probably my only friends if I’m being honest.”

“Huh…” Y/N replied, taking a long drag of her cig. “That’s fucking weird, Harrington. Did you and your girlfriend adopt them or something?”

He cocked his head. “Girlfriend?”

“Yeah, Buckley... Sorry, I just assumed-”

“Oh,” he replied with realization. “Buckley, no we’re just friends. She’s practically my sister.”

“Oh okay, cool.” She took another puff.

“Do you ever think about quitting? It’s a nasty habit.”

“Yeah well, what else do I have to do?”

“Go out with me?” She turned sharply to glare at him, her eyes going wide. “Not like go out with me. Shit, I said that wrong- Hangout. I meant hangout with me. As friends!”

She still looked frozen, giving him a look he couldn’t quite read. Was that happiness? Distast? Maybe she didn’t want to try being friends with him.

“I wanna see you outside of therapy and your work ya know?” he explained, trying not to dig himself into a deeper hole. “To not listen to Matt re-explain every class he has. I mean like, we’re not the ones in school.”

She laughed at that, probably understanding what he meant. Next to them, a car pulled up to the curb. It wasn’t Robin.

“That’s my dad,” she responded softly, walking over to the car. She turned to open the passenger door but paused and looked back at him. “Meet me at the Hideout at 7? Saturday?”

Steve couldn’t stop himself from smiling. “I’ll be there.”

She gave him one last look before climbing into the car, driving away. The smile was still plastered on Steve’s face and he couldn’t help but think that this friendship was the beginning of his new life. One where the Upside Down didn’t haunt his dreams, or where he didn’t fight any demogorgons. One where he could leave that all behind.

The Hideout. It sounded familiar but Steve couldn’t place why he knew it. Even as he walked into the place, he knew he had never been there before.

It was very grungy. The floors looked like they needed a deep cleaning and the walls were covered head to toe in band posters. A bar sat on the left side of the room, perfectly out of the way of the stage on the back wall.

Walking in, Steve opted to stand next to a high table, no chairs in sight. He figured it was just a place for people to set down their drinks. Alcohol, however, did not feel the right call. He wanted to stay alert for his first hangout with Y/N.

As his eyes drifted across the stage, he watched a band set up their equipment. There were only four of them. A drummer, bassist, guitarist, and a rhythm guitarist. It was probably some local band he had never heard of - he didn’t really keep up with current music.

But as he looked closer, he realized that they were familiar. The guy on rhythm guitar, he had seen him before. A math class? Was that it? Slowly, it started to come to him.

This was Eddie’s band.

The room felt like it became a million times hotter as Steve began to sweat. His heart thumping faster than normal. He needed to stay calm, he needed to control his panic.

Since Eddie died, he tried to stay away from all things related to the guy. Instead of sitting in on the last few minutes of Dustin’s dnd games, he’d wait in the car. Instead of surfing any radio channel, he made sure to skip the metal station. But there was no skipping tonight.

He recognized three of the members but there was one that was new. He had shorter hair, a lanky build and a tattoo peeking out from under the arm of his t-shirt. He didn’t look familiar - not someone he went to school with. But then it dawned on him.

He was Eddie’s replacement. Before he even had time to process that information, he felt a small hand on his back, a presence next to him.

“Hey, you made it,” Y/N said with a smile on her face. He hadn’t seen her smile like that in a long time.

“W-whata- what…” It was like he couldn’t speak, the image of Eddie’s band moving on without him still in his mind. “W-why did you bring me here?” he finally got out.

Y/N furrowed her brows. “To see Corroded Coffin?” she responded, not really understanding what he meant. “I thought it would be fun, my brother said they’re playing a new song tonight.”

He furrowed his eyebrows. “Brother?”

“Yeah… Gareth? On the drums? I thought you remembered.”

No, he didn’t remember. He turned back to the band setting up. Gareth was putting down the hi-hat to complete his drum set.

Trying to stay calm, he said, “Oh cool…did uh, did you know Eddie too?”

Her face dropped slightly at the mention of his name. “Yeah, I did. He was a good guy.” All he could do was nod, taking a deep breath in. He felt her arm wrap around his. “Everything’s gonna be fine. I’m sorry I should’ve told you why we were here.”

“No it’s okay. It’s like exposure therapy.”

She chuckled, leaning her head on his shoulder. “Sure.”

It didn’t take long for them to start, the music blaring out of speakers that were too loud for the room they were in. The new guy, in place of Eddie, was singing and Steve had to admit it wasn’t bad. His heart still ached at the thought of the band having to replace their star singer. They all looked like really close friends back in school.

They played a couple songs, and Y/N pointed out the new one that her brother had mentioned. It was good, or better than he would have thought. Steve didn’t know how much he actually liked metal music but if he had to listen to any it would be this.

But he wasn’t really focused on the music, more of the person standing next to him. He tried not to stare but she was so memorizing. Singing along to the songs she knew, bobbing her head to the ones she didn’t. It was nice seeing her outside the context of therapy. He also wasn’t complaining that her arm was still wrapped around his for a majority of the night.

As the new lead singer thanked the small crowd, leaving as they cheered, Steve felt Y/N tug his arm.

“Come on, let’s go say hello,” she said, pulling him through the crowd.

“S-say hello?” he asked. “Like to the band?”

“Duh,” she replied, waving at a bouncer guarding the backstage door. “We aren’t gonna see my brother perform and then leave.”

The corridor backstage was busier than he thought it would be. The bar was small but it sure didn’t feel like that. People were walking up and down, some running like it was Madison Square Garden. He couldn’t tell who worked there, performed, or were just groupies stopping by.

Turning right, they were met face to face with the green room, a written sign saying Corroded Coffin taped to the door. Y/N smiled at him before she reached for the handle, turning it to reveal a very hectic room.

The band members were just chatting but it sounded like shouting. It all halted when they walked in.

“Y/N!” Garrett exclaimed, running over to hug her.

“You did great tonight, honestly all of you did,” she told him.

“And the new song?”

“Better than I could’ve imagined.”

Garret turned to look at Steve, his expression changing to something of confusion. “What is he doing here?”

“You brought Steve Harrington?” Jeff, the rhythm guitarist, chimed in.

Y/N turned to look at Steve confused. “I thought you said you knew Eddie?”

“I-I did,” he told her, suddenly aware of how many eyes were staring at him. He looked around the room quickly before back at her. “I- just not with his usual crowd…”

The band continued to give him a blank stare.

“I know Dustin, Lucas, and Mike? I know you used to play dnd together,” he added.

Grant, the bassist, crossed his arms. “You know Henderson?” he asked.

Steve nodded. “He’s like a little brother to me.”

They stared in silence at him and what was probably five seconds felt like eternity. It wasn’t until Jeff shrugged and spoke up that Steve realized his heart rate was quickening.

“I guess you're okay then,” Jeff said, “As long as you don’t try to shove us into lockers.”

If Jeff didn’t chuckled he would have if he was serious. His laugh rippled throughout the room, breaking the tension and it was like life started again. Joints were lit, drinks were poured, and Steve’s past was left forgotten.

“Can I ask you something?” Steve asked. He walked next to Y/N in the cold, night air, the only sound audible coming from the shuffling of their shoes.

“Sure,” she said, reaching into her pocket to grab a cigarette.

“That first time we talked, like at Dr Ackerman’s…you mentioned someone named Gary.” He felt her stiffen next to him, a slight stutter in her step. “Who was he?”

Dropping her head to the unlit cigarette, she decided to shove it back into her pocket. He instantly regretted asking.

Apologizing, he said, “I’m sorry I shouldn’t have asked.”

“No, it’s okay…” she waved off. “Exposure therapy, right?” she said, repeating his words from earlier in the night, letting him know it was okay. “Gary was my neighbor in my freshman year dorms. We hit it off really quick and started to date.”

She looked at the ground as she talked, hands shoved into her pockets. Steve however, couldn’t take his gaze off her.

“He was fine, uh, a good boyfriend. Well, at first…” she took a pause, almost long enough that he was thinking he should say something.

Luckily, she continued. “He stumbled into my room really drunk one night…tried to take advantage of me.” She shrugged, actually shrugged, like what she just told him was nothing. “I pushed him off me and he went blabbing to everyone that I was an attention seeking whore. All my friends stopped talking to me, even my roommate…and the administration wouldn’t do anything about it even though he, you know…”

She trailed off as she kicked a rock with her shoe and Steve could feel his heart breaking into a million pieces. How could someone, anyone, do that sort of thing? Not even when he was considered King Steve would he force himself onto a girl.

Y/N sighed. “It was like high school was repeating itself, you know? I didn’t get to have my fresh start.”

He nodded, trying to understand what she went through. They never ran in the same circles in high school, but it was hard not to hear the rumors going around about who she was sleeping with. He assumed Billy was the one to start them and let it be. Looking back, he wished he had stood up for her.

“It sucks,” he began warily, not knowing if it was okay to speak. When she looked up at him, it gave him the courage to continue. “When other people decide who they think you are. I-I mean, I didn’t go through that but I do have problems with the way people perceive me, my reputation.”

“I-I mean that’s when all my panic attacks started I just- I couldn’t stay there. It’s so stupid…”

“It’s not!” Steve reassured her. “Not stupid in the slightest. I would have left too if it were me. I mean, I didn’t even get into college. There was nowhere for me to run.” The more he began to speak of his own problems, the more anxious he became. “Not that what I went through was worse than you, I’m sorry I didn’t mean to turn the conversation on to me-”

“-No, Steve, it’s okay. I get it, you’re just trying to relate to me.” He nodded - it was like she took the words right out of his mouth. “Could we go back to yours? If I remember those high school parties correctly, you have a pool.”

“Sure. Y-yeah cool,” he blubbered. He couldn’t remember the last time talking to a girl made him anxious like this. Trying to catch his cool, they headed toward Loch Nora.

“The back door should be unlocked,” Steve informed Y/N as they approached his house.

It wasn’t a far walk from the bus stop they got off on and he could still see his car parked in the driveway - but only his car. Robin had told him ahead of time that she was going to sleep at her own home for once that week - her parents wanting to see more of her.

“Wow, it’s exactly how I remembered it,” Y/N commented as he opened the back gate.

He looked back at her. “You remember what my house looks like?”

Shrugging, she said, “Like I said, I went to a couple of your parties.” The pool’s lights illuminated the otherwise dark backyard, steam rising from its surface. “Now this is what I’m talking about.”

Without warning, Y/N pulled her shirt off, moving to pull down her pants. Steve’s eyes went wide, turning around to give her privacy. “What are you doing?”

“Getting in your pool? I don’t know about you, Harrington, but I don’t carry a bathing suit with me.”

“I guess…” Steve said, suddenly unsure of their plan.

It was just like a bikini right? Only it felt so much more intimate. He heard a splash from behind him, a gasp as she rose to the surface for air.

“You coming in?”

Slowly he turned around facing her as she grazed her hands over the surface of the water. She looked so majestic with her hair slicked back. He felt like deer in headlights as he looked at her. He could go inside, grab one of the many swimming trunks he had in his closet. But instead, he opted to strip down to his boxers, leveling the playing field.

He could tell she was surprised, not thinking he would do the same thing as her. But nonetheless he jumped right in. The splash completely covered her but she didn’t seem to mind, already dunking her head moments before. When he rose to the surface, he inhaled deeply.

“Hey!” She exclaimed, wiping water from her eyes.

“You were already wet!” He retorted.

Without warning, she lunged herself at him. Steve felt as she collided with his chest, sending him falling back into the water, taking her with him. He barely had enough time to breathe before he felt himself submerged back under the surface. On instinct, an arm wrapped around her midsection, balancing her against him as he used his legs to push them back up for air.

Breaking the surface tension, he felt Y/N cling to him, her arms wrapping around his neck as she tried to balance against his bent knee. They were both gasping for air, taking a moment to recover. But the moment she looked up at him, those beautiful eyes he stared into at the diner, it was like a damn broke.

She smiled, letting out a giggle and he too couldn’t keep a straight face. As her face buried in his neck he asked, “What was that for?”

“I don’t know, it looked like you needed to have fun,” she responded.

“So you pushed me.”

Y/N lifted her head from his neck, her hands still around his neck. “You’re a very pushable person.”

“Oh am I?”

“Definitely.” She giggled, her fingers absentmindedly playing with the hair on the nape of his neck. “I could stay like this forever.”

Steve smiled, his cheeks getting warmer. “Me too. It’s like a little pocket out of time. We don’t have to think about the future.”

“Or the past…” She was silent for a second, her fingers still moving and Steve tried his best to stay still. A beautiful girl was practically sitting on his lap and he was trying to hard to not fuck it up.

“That first session, you talked about all the loss you’ve been around. Is there a reason for that?”

“Interdimensional monsters,” he blurted out. It felt good to say the truth even if it was met with a laugh. Who would believe in another dimension anyway?

“Fine don’t tell me,” she said, letting her hands rest on his shoulders.

The cool touch of her fingers spread across him, down through his chest. It was hard to stop thinking about how little fabric separated them, especially with the way her fingers grazed his skin.

For a moment he almost swore she looked down at his lips. “I bet…” she began, tilting her head back to show her thinking. “That you have daddy issues.”

“Who doesn’t?”

She giggled, her forehead tipping forward, almost touching his. A piece of hair fell across her face and without thinking he reached up to brush it away. Y/N looked up at him, their eyes meeting as he softly pushed the strand behind her ear.

This time, he knew for certain, she had looked at his lips, right after he did the same.

The little space left between them closed as Y/N leaned forward, capturing his mouth. It was softer than he would had thought. Her rough exterior not matching her tender touch. He felt her arms wrap back around him, fingers gripping his hair. He let out a moan, tightening the grip he had on her waist.

She pulled back for a moment, only to tilt her head to the other side, her lips crashing back down on his. A small whimper let out from her mouth and Steve felt like he died and went to heaven. He wanted to hear it again, to be the only one that made her sound that way. It was intoxicating, like a vampire thirsting for blood.

He let his kisses trail down her cheek, reattaching himself to her throat. She moaned even louder and he never wanted to let go.

“That feels nice,” she said, breathlessly. The grip on his hair grew tighter but he didn’t mind. She could poke, pull, or prod, any part of him and he would let her.

“You feel nice.”

Without meaning too, she pressed down on his lap. And even through their underwear and the water of the pool, Steve felt ecstatic. He detached himself from her neck gasping at the pressure.

“Jesus Christ,” he murmured to himself but it might have been louder than he expected.

Y/N looked up at him with a smile. But as her eyes found his, Steve was confused as to why it started to vanish. Detaching herself from him, he watched as she floated away until her back hit the pool wall.

Something was wrong, he just knew it. Was it something he did or said? Was it the kiss?

“I should probably go,” she told him, pulling herself out of the pool.

“Oh,” he said in surprise. Why the rush to leave so quickly? “Okay…”

As he joined her by the lounging chairs, he watched as she tried to put a leg through her pants.

“Wait,” he stopped her, putting a hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him before straightening her back. “Don’t put your clothes over your wet ones.”

“How else would I-“

He interrupted her, knowing if he didn’t say what was in his mind he’d lose the courage to say it.

“-you can stay. Like, stay over?”

Why was he this nervous? He had plenty of girls over before. But with her, things felt different. Y/N raised her eyebrows at his comment.

“If you want to,” he rushed out to say. “You could take a shower, I could dry your clothes and-“

“Okay,” she spoke over him.

It felt like all the air left his body. “Yeah?” He asked again for reassurance. Slowly she nodded, a smile tugged at the corner of her lips. “Okay yeah. Cool, um…this way.”

Steve’s hands twitched nervously as he sat on his bed. Y/N was in the shower, due to come out any minute. It wasn’t like he hadn’t had a girl over before. Just that the last person to sleep in his bed broke his heart. They had shared a space, gotten warm together under his blankets, baked in the morning sun. It held more meaning to him than he realized before.

As he clutched his hands, trying to calm himself down, the door creaked open. He looked up, watching as Y/N hesitantly peered in. As soon as he saw her face, it was like there was a calm that washed over him. The idea of having someone sleep in his bed filled him with anxiety, but when he saw Y/N it all faded away. He wanted her next to him, he wanted to share his space with her.

Closing the door behind her, Y/N stood awkwardly across the room. But Steve couldn’t help but smile. She looked so cute in his clothes, the fabric clinging to her skin in ways that left little to the imagination.

“I left the towel in the laundry room,” she said. “I hope that was okay.”

“Yeah,” he said quickly, being pulled from his thoughts. “Yup that’s okay. I already started the load on drying your clothes.”

“Cool,” she said, intertwining her fingers in front of her.

Steve motioned to his bed. “Do you prefer a side or-”

She shook her head. “Nope. I-I’m fine with either.”

Steve hummed an agreement, moving to take the ride side of the bed. He watched her join on the other side as he pushed the covers back. They both had romantic experiences; both sleeping with someone else in their bed. But in the moment, it felt like they were little kids again.

Steve carefully covered both of them, sinking back down into his mattress. He tried not to touch her, to give her space after what happened in the pool. And with her past, he didn’t want to make her uncomfortable. Starting at the ceiling he heard Y/N sigh. Turning his head he could see her covering her face.

“Are you okay?” He asked, turning to face her. “D-do you want to sleep in my parents room? They’re not home-”

“No, this is perfectly fine just,” she dropped her hands onto her chest as she stared up, not meeting his gaze. He could see her eyes getting watery, a tear on the verge of falling. “I-I don’t wanna do anything with you like- sexually. And I’m sorry if that’s blunt but after everything with Gary-”

“Hey, it’s okay,” he reassured her to try and show her this was a safe space. “I wasn’t expecting to, honestly.”

She turned to look at him with a raised eyebrow. “Really?” she asked, not convinced.

“Really,” he replied. “I haven’t really been the same since Nance and I broke up and- nevermind it’s not important. I could leave if this is too much.”

“No I want you here I really do I’m just…confused. I don’t know.”

She buried her head in her hands again, probably to stop him from seeing her start to cry. Steve ached for her. To see her like this, to know that this was the fault of another person. That a person could do that to someone else.

“I’ll sleep on the floor,” he told her, moving the comforter aside. “That way we won’t be alone but we can have our space.”

She looked back at him, her cheeks wet with tears. “No, I don't wanna make you sleep on the floor in your own room.”

“It’s nothing really,” he dismissed, grabbing his pillow and a spare blanket that was thrown across his desk chair. “Trust me, I’ve slept in worse places than on a rugged floor.”

“If I wasn’t a mess right now I’d ask you to elaborate.”

He fluffed his pillow, pulling the blanket up over his shoulders. Y/N peered over the bed, still unsure of the sleeping arrangement though he could tell it was putting her more at ease.

“A conversation for another time,” he said and he swore he could see a smile on his face.

“Okay,” she said softly, her head disappearing as she laid back down on the bed.

There was silence for a moment and Steve thought that she had fallen asleep. But her soft voice glided through the air.

“Steve?” she asked.

“Yeah?”

There was another beat. Another moment of silence before he heard her whisper, “Thank you.”

Even on the floor of his room, the sun found a way to shine on his face. The warm light slowly woke him up, making him rub his eyes in an attempt to not blind himself. He almost forgot he was on the floor of his room until he rolled over to open his nightside drawer, feeling his hand brush against the floor instead.

As his eyes came into focus, he willed himself to sit up. Why was he on the floor again? Right, Y/N. Beautiful Y/N who should be asleep on his bed. But as he leaned his head up to see over the edge of the mattress, he was met with an empty bed. The covers were made neatly, all pillows back in place, as if no one had even slept there the night before.

Steve rubbed his eyes, like if he cleared himself from his sleepy haze she would materialize in his room. But as his eyes began to focus again, he found he was still alone. Grunting, he stood up, pulling the pillow and blanket he had used with him. He looked around the room and it seemed that nothing was out of place.

Did he imagine last night? Did he feel so alone that he willed himself to believe that Y/N actually slept over? His eyes continued to scan for anything out of place, a breath of relief when they landed on his dresser.

The clothes he had lent her were neatly stacked on his desk and if he had to guess, her drying clothes in the laundry room would be gone. So he hadn’t imagined it. What happened? Why was she in such a rush to leave?

Maybe she regretted the night before, thinking he hadn’t changed since his days at King Steve. Perhaps the kiss was too much and she regretted it. Steve’s mind spiraled down a dark hole he knew too well. If he didn’t stop now, he would trigger another panic attack.

Taking a moment before getting ready for the day, he sat down on his bed, closing his eyes. He just needed to breathe. In and out, in and out. Over and over again he focused on his breath, letting all his energy go into calming himself down.

He needed to talk to Y/N. To clarify everything from last night before it ate away at him.

Steve drove himself to therapy the following week. Partly because Robin was still back at her parents, and partly because he needed more time to think. As the time of the group session approached, he felt his heart rate begin to rise. His thoughts raced faster than they did when he woke up to find her gone.

He just needed to get there. Seeing her would calm him, reassure him that he didn’t fuck up. But as he parked his car and raced inside, he was saddened to find that she wasn’t there. Maybe she was just late. She had been late in the past, it was logical to assume she could be late today.

Matt and Sam had tried to talk to him but he only politely nodded as they spoke. His tongue felt too heavy in his mouth. Like lifting it to speak would only result in incoherent babbling. Thankfully, Dr. Ackerman’s presence let him stay silent.

The session began and Steve found himself staring at the door. He nodded, giving short answers when required but his attention was still trained on the closed door. She had to walk through the door. To join their weekly sessions. But as the topic drifted from one person to another, Y/N never arrived.

Steve was quick to leave, rushing to the parking lot to see if she had missed the session and was just arriving. To his disappointment, she wasn’t there. Not even a lingering smell of cigarettes in the air from her usual smoking spot.

He arrived early for the next session, and the next, and soon a whole month went by without her attending. Every session his eyes stayed on the door, willing her to walk through. Maybe if he was like Eleven, telepathically gifted, he could find out where she was. No, he thought. Even with those powers, it would be an invasion of privacy. And he didn’t want to be where he wasn’t welcomed.

Robin had been spending more and more time with her parents to figure out packing for the fall semester so Steve had been driving himself more often in Y/N’s absence.

Another missed therapy session had him driving home in silence, not even the radio playing to fill the void. His fingers tapped against the steering wheel in an irregular pattern as he turned onto his street. Slowly, his house came into view and he could see the vague outline of someone sitting on the front steps.

That’s weird, he thought to himself. Robin had a key, most people in the party did for emergencies. So why was she waiting outside?

As he pulled closer, almost fully into the driveway, his eyes adjusted. It wasn’t Robin, or anyone he had fought monsters with. It was Y/N.

Y/N, smoking a cigarette as she patiently waited for him to come home. He felt himself falter, his foot almost slamming on the brakes. She was here, more beautiful than the last time he saw her – though it was pretty hard for her to look anything but perfect.

The engine revved as he pulled into the driveway, pulling Y/N’s attention to him. Quickly, she stood up, putting her cigarette out with the heel of her shoe. Steve felt glued to the inside of the car. Their eyes had met, not separating as he put in the car in park. All he wanted was to get out and speak to her. But something in his chest tightened. If she had been avoiding him for the past week, she had her reasons. And part of him didn’t want to know for certain he was the problem.

He tried to move, he truly did. But his anxiety was ruling over his brain and he didn’t know how to stop it. Thankfully, Y/N seemed to notice. Moving forward, she opened his passenger door and climbed in. He never took his eyes off her, even when she turned her back to close the door.

Turning back to him, she weakly said, “Hey.”

“H-hi,” he managed to blurt out. Silence hung in the air, as he figured out what to say. Y/N continued to speak. “Sorry to show up at your house, I didn’t mean to be a bother.”

“You’re not a bother,” he blurted out. “Y-you’re never a bother.”

He was looking directly into her eyes, his gaze never wavering. It didn’t break until Y/N looked down at her lap and he could have sworn he saw a small smile form on her lips. A moment passed, then two, and neither of them talked.

Despite being uncomfortable with long silences, Steve didn’t seem to mind. He didn’t feel like his social battery drained when he was around her. If anything, she made him feel more alive. She knew what he was going through, one of the best kept secrets in his life and she knew.

“I missed you,” she said softly, still looking down at her lap.

“I’ve missed you too…Louise keeps talking about her one night stands and I don’t think I can take any more of it,” he said, gaining back some composure from earlier.

Y/N laughed, her shoulders hunching forward. She looked back up at him, her eyes darting back and forth between the two of his. As the smile slowly faded from her face, her eyes remained on his. It was clear she wanted to talk about what happened. Maybe she just needed a push.

“Do you…wanna talk about it?” Steve asked.

She shook her head slightly. “I don’t know it’s just – when I woke up in your room, my mind immediately went back to Gary.” She paused for a moment and he let her gather her thoughts. “I just went into a spiral like I did with him. Like did I force you to kiss me? Did you really want me sleeping in your bed or did I coerce you to? What would people think if they see the town whore sleeping with the former king of Hawkins High just – it’s stupid, I’m sorry.”

“It’s not stupid,” he said immediately, reaching his hands out on the center console. He didn’t want to touch her without asking, but wanted to let her know he was there if she needed to. He sighed.

“I didn’t expect to kiss you that night,” he continued. She looked up at him, biting the inside of her cheek. “But that didn’t mean I didn’t want you to. You in no way forced me to kiss you…and I was the one who wanted you to stay. I-I should’ve been more vocal so you didn’t feel forced to.”

Y/N nodded, leaning forward with her hands on the center console, not quite touching his.

“If you want to keep seeing me, friend or something more, I promise I will walk you through everything thought in my head so we’re on the same page.”

She raised an eyebrow, some color coming back to her face. “Every thought?”

He nodded. “Oh for sure. Like how I’ve been craving a ham and cheese sandwich since I woke up this morning.” She giggled again at his obvious attempt to make her feel better. “And like how I’d really like to hold your hand right now.”

He stared at her in his car, the sun slowly setting outside, and felt the touch of her fingers against his. It felt like an immediate release, a tightness he didn’t know was there unfolding in his chest.

“I would like to keep seeing you too,” she told him, and it was like his heart was doing a million leaps of joy. “I don’t know if I can handle anything more right now,”

“-and that is completely fine with me,” he reassured her quickly, feeling a tight squeeze of reassurance in his hand.

“Thank you for understanding. In the future, if I’m ready…I’d like to explore that possibility with you.”

Steve gave her a big grin, not trying to hide what he was feeling. “Good, uh, that’s good to know.”

They sat in his car, hands intertwined like the rest of the world didn’t matter. Like their pasts and reputations didn’t haunt them like a shadow. For now, they had each other and that was all they could ask for.

Steve didn’t need some fancy school or big corporate job. Just someone who understood him, who knew what it was like to feel the things he felt and not be judged.

He was happy he finally found someone who did just that.

Taglist: @afraidofshrimp @halflifejess @nix-rose @palmtreesx3 @cilliansnostolgia @sweetdazequeen

288 notes · View notes

supernovafics · 5 months ago

Text

series masterlist | last part — next part

pairing: modern!college!steve harrington x fem!reader, bestfriend!eddie munson x fem!reader

word count: 3.1k words

warnings: explicit language, brief mention of alcohol/drinking, pining, a little angst

summary: steve meets you at eddie’s show and even though you’re feeling a little weird and nervous about what you two are doing, you ultimately decide that there’s a first time for everything

CHAPTER THREE | ❝𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅❞

Fall Semester 2015

Eddie was good. Like, really good.

So good that you had to keep reminding yourself to not ogle at his hands on the guitar, seamlessly moving from chord to chord, or focus too hard on the almost too pretty sound of his voice.

You silently wondered— as he and his band finished out the last few moments of the song they were rehearsing— if you would be feeling this way as you watched him practice if you didn’t have the biggest crush on him. Or maybe this would’ve ended up being the moment you realized everything, instead of that moment happening in his dorm room just a few weeks ago.

You still hadn’t decided how to tell him, you also still weren’t sure if you even wanted to tell him at all. If you said something and he didn’t feel the same way, you had a feeling that it would mess everything up between you and him, and ultimately ruin this friendship that felt so important to you.

Therefore, you were leaning more toward never telling him how you felt, or at least waiting for the perfect moment to do so. However, you didn’t know what would necessarily deem a moment as “perfect.” Maybe one day it would just feel right to finally utter the words to him? You weren’t entirely sure.

For the time being, you pushed those confusing thoughts to the side, and in this moment you simply focused on the final notes of the song being played out, marking its end, and then Eddie placing his guitar down.

“You guys are really good,” You said from where you sat barely five feet away because of how small the garage was; you couldn’t remember if this was Gareth’s place, Jeff’s, or Doug’s. “Like, really, really good. It’s actually kind of insane.”

Eddie smiled at you. “I think you’re our number one fan now.”

“I feel honored to hold that title.”

He walked over to where you were sitting. “You wanna come with me to get the pizza?”

His question was one that you didn’t need to outwardly respond to because the answer was obvious. You simply nodded as you stood up from your chair and walked with him to his van.

You’d go anywhere with Eddie— and that fact was the main reason why you were currently spending your Saturday in his hometown two hours away from your guys’ college, instead of holed up in the library studying for midterms.

“I think I get it,” You said, gazing out the window as he drove and watching the small empty fields and random houses pass by in a blur.

“Get what?”

“Why you wanted to leave here,” You answered, turning to look at him even though his eyes were focused on the road. “It’s so small and quiet. I honestly can’t even imagine you growing up here.”

“There was a record store across town that I really loved, and it was probably the only thing that kept me sane growing up,” He briefly explained and you nodded. “And my uncle. And the guys too. We’ve been doing the whole band thing since middle school.”

The thought of an eleven year old Eddie singing and playing guitar sounded quite adorable to you.

“That’s so cute.”

Eddie laughed. “Cute was not what we were going for.”

“Sorry, what I meant to say was, that’s so cool and rock ‘n roll.”

“Solid save.”

“Thank you.”

“You have to take me to your hometown next,” He said, taking a brief look over at you as he kept driving.

You shook your head. ��Definitely not gonna happen, and not just because we’d have to take a two hour plane ride to get there.”

“Come on, I brought you here.”

Just for a second, you let yourself think about the suburban town you grew up in states away; a town that you also couldn’t wait to get out of because, just like Eddie’s, it felt way too quiet and small. You tried to briefly imagine him walking down the streets you used to walk to get to school or the park that you had liked to spend most of your free time at reading, but you couldn’t see it. You could barely even see yourself doing any of that anymore.

“This is different. You want to come here,” You told him. “Aside from my parents, and that’s only sometimes, there’s nothing that makes me wanna go back to my hometown.”

You tried your hardest not to think about how actually saying that out loud made you feel a little sad.

“So, no band with old friends that makes you wanna go back most weekends?” Eddie asked, purposefully trying to lighten the mood, which you were grateful for.

You gave him a small smile. “Nope, none of that.”

That was why you liked him, he read you well and knew the right moments to shift any conversation.

There was a part of you that wanted to just admit to him how you felt right there in his van. Let the words leave your lips and simply see what would happen.

But then he was pulling into the parking lot of the pizza place and the moment felt effectively over. And a part of you was glad for that.

It wasn’t that difficult to pretend that nothing had changed for you and that you still only saw him as your best friend. You honestly found pretending to be the easiest thing to do.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。. .・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。

Spring Semester 2018

“Robin just texted me saying, “Tell Eds I’m there in spirit. When in actuality my spirit is dead because this essay is killing me.” So yeah, she’s not coming tonight.”

“Damn, so that means I won’t hear her overenthusiastic “woo’s” after we finish every song.”

You playfully smiled at Eddie. “I can take over that job for the night if you want.”

“That would be great,” He responded, smiling back. “We need to prove that we have at least one excited fan.”

“Okay, then I’ll make sure to take my job as your number one fan very seriously tonight,” You told him before taking a sip from your drink and then placing it back atop the high wooden table you two were standing on opposite sides of that was a bit wobbly. “I swear we always somehow end up at this specific table.”

“Either that, or they’re all fucked up.”

“True,” You said and nodded, but you had a feeling that it was probably the same one because you and everyone always ended up occupying the same cluster of tables that were to the right of the small stage— a stage that was currently set up because he was performing in less than twenty minutes.

You had shown up with Eddie and the rest of the band an hour earlier; which was pretty much a routine when it came to the biweekly gig Corroded Coffin had here. Aces was one of the few bars in town that was actually not frequented by college kids because they were really strict about their carding policies and could spot a fake ID from a mile away. However, Rick, the owner, loved Eddie and the band, so exceptions were made for them; and by extension you and your other friends too.

You texted Robin back “Your screaming will be missed<3,” and then got a notification for a text from Steve that said, “Just parked.”

“Um, Steve just got here, so I’m gonna go out and grab him.”

“Okay,” Eddie said and then shook his head in what seemed like both disbelief and surprise. “I still can’t believe how good Friday night went for you two.”

“Yeah, I’m surprised too. I didn’t expect this to happen,” You told him, which technically wasn’t that much of a lie. You really hadn’t expected that night to lead to you fake dating Steve barely a day later.

The cold night air immediately hit you when you walked outside, even the jacket you were wearing wasn’t enough to keep you warm, so you crossed your arms over your chest as you waited for Steve. You were suddenly glad that you opted against wearing a skirt tonight and decided to settle on a pair of jeans.

It was a solid three minutes of you looking both ways down the street and waiting for Steve to eventually come into view. And when he finally did, you met him halfway.

“Jesus, how far did you park?”

“Way too far.”

Steve fell into step with you as you walked back to the front door. You noticed him look up at the faded sign that had the bar’s name on it and then it seemed as if he realized or remembered something. “Aren’t they really strict at this place?”

“Yeah, but it’s fine,” You answered with a quick shrug before grabbing his hand to keep him close to you as you walked past the small-ish line of people waiting to get their ID checked and get into the bar. You gave a quick smile to Jacob, the bouncer and also Rick’s brother, who was letting you through with no hesitation. “Thanks, Jacob.”

Steve let out a breath of a laugh once you two were fully inside the small and darkly lit bar. “Okay, that was actually pretty cool.”

You were about to respond to him with some playful joke about how getting into this place both for free and without an ID was probably the coolest thing about you, but then your eyes were on Eddie. He was saying something to the guys as they headed over to the packed bar and then he was left alone at the haphazardly pushed-together tables. Suddenly, you felt nervous and also a bunch of other things that were entirely indecipherable at the moment.

You turned to look at Steve. “Okay, so, um, how thick are we laying it on right now?”

Instead of answering your question, he seemed to sense your nervousness, so he gave your hand that was still holding his a quick squeeze. “Just chill. Don’t worry.”

That honestly didn’t do anything to calm your nerves or make you not worried about what you two were about to do. But, it was also weird because even though you were nervous, you didn’t want to back out of doing it.

“Where is he?” Steve asked.

You simply nodded in the direction of the table Eddie was standing at.

“Okay, come on,” He said and as you two walked over to the table, he readjusted your hands so that they were intertwined, which made holding hands with him feel a thousand times more intimate. And that was probably exactly why he did it, you realized.

“Hey,” He greeted Eddie with a smile.

“Hey, man,” Eddie responded. “Cool seeing you here.”

“Yeah, glad I can finally catch a show.”

You stopped paying attention to what they were saying, and it wasn’t really on purpose, it was just that all you could focus on right then was Steve’s subtle movements— his hand pulling away from yours and him shifting closer to you so that he could drape his arm around your shoulders instead. He was so smooth and easy with it, meanwhile you were contemplating if you seemed too tense or if your face looked uncomfortable.

Maybe some practicing would’ve been good before jumping into the deep end of this whole thing. But, what would practicing have even entailed? Steve holding your hand or keeping his arm around you until you felt completely normal about it? That sounded almost too embarrassingly stupid.

He had done pretty much the same things Friday night on your date— you remembered him holding your hand and wrapping an arm around you during the movie and feeling entirely okay about it; he had even kissed you that night and initially, you had been completely okay before you got too in your head about everything— but this, for obvious reasons, felt entirely different. The point now was to look super into it, and you felt yourself slowly folding under the pressure.

“Did you tell him about game night?”

It took you a second to realize Eddie was talking to you because your mind was in an entirely different place right then. You barely even heard the question he asked you.

“Yeah, she did,” Steve said, saving you. “I’ll be there.”

“Great, we’ll actually have even teams for once,” Eddie said to you.

“Talia’s gonna hate that. She loves being referee,” You responded, finally finding your voice and actually managing to feel the tiniest bit normal for a moment.

“No, she won’t because she’s gonna have the best Pictionary player on her team.”

You rolled your eyes at that because you knew he was referring to himself. “Vickie is the best at Pictionary, actually.”

“Okay. Second best.”

“I think Robin’s second, but you’re definitely third because me and Talia are equally bad at that game.”

“Fine, I’ll take third,” Eddie responded. “Unless Harrington here has a secret talent?”

Steve shook his head. “No, I’m terrible at drawing.”

Eddie smiled at that. “You two will make a great team then.”

“I think our bad drawing skills will cancel each other out and we’ll actually end up being really good,” You said, mostly kidding with your words.

“Or we’ll be worse,” Steve said.

“It’s very sad to see that you have no faith in us,” You joked, looking up at him, and he only laughed in response.

He and Eddie went into talking about an assignment for the class they had together, and you attempted to pay attention to their conversation, but your mind went right back to overthinking everything. You wondered whether or not things looked real or if it all seemed entirely forced and out of place.

Steve was doing pretty much all of the work right then at making this newfound relationship look believable, and your only job was to pretend that you were happy to lean into his touch and to make it seem like you were at least a little enamored by him, which was easier said than done. You were now discovering that acting wasn’t your strong suit.

They continued talking for the next minute or two before Eddie was saying that he needed to head on stage. “I’ll see you guys after.”

You nodded and said a simple “Good luck,” and then he walked away, joining Gareth, Jeff, and Doug on stage. You let out a breath that you didn’t even know you’d been holding.

“You okay?” Steve asked once Eddie was out of earshot. His arm dropped from around you, but he still stayed close. “I know we shook hands on it and everything, but we really don’t have to do this. It’s fine if you wanna back out.”

“No, I’m okay. I just didn’t expect this to feel so weird? I don’t know if that’s the right word, but yeah… I swear I’m fine, though, I’ll get better at,” You briefly gestured between you and him. “This whole thing.”

The last time you were so outwardly physically affectionate with someone was years ago; a high school relationship that ended just as quickly as it had started. You weren’t used to this anymore, and maybe it was dumb to think that it would be easy to do it, especially with someone you didn’t really even know that well.

“We don’t have to do this,” Steve reminded you.

“No, I want to. Honestly,” You assured him, and surprisingly that still felt mostly true.

“When’s game night?”

“Tomorrow,” You answered, forgetting that that had been brought up in the conversation with Eddie. “It’s a once-a-month thing we do at the apartment.”

“Got it,” He said with a nod.

“You don’t have to come if you don’t wanna. It’s mainly just three hours of all of us screaming at each other,” You briefly explained. “That’s the reason why we only do it once a month. Friendships would be ruined if we made it a weekly thing.”

“Sounds deadly.”

“Very much so.”

“Also, sounds fun.”

You let out a laugh. “Didn’t peg you for a masochist, Steven.”

He ignored that. “Do you want me to come tomorrow?”

You took a moment to actually consider his question. Everyone else was gonna have to meet him eventually, especially if you wanted to make it seem like you “really liked him,” so maybe it would be best to just rip off the band-aid and do the introductions sooner rather than later.

“Yeah, I do,” You ultimately answered. “You should come. I think it’ll be good.”

Before he could even say anything in response, the band started playing and every conversation happening in the small bar became drowned out by the music. You bopped your head and softly sang along to the songs you knew, which were pretty much all of them aside from a few new covers they decided to do. And you, of course, loudly applauded and excitedly shouted after every song, just like you told Eddie you would.

“Wow,” Steve said at one point, mouth close to your ear so that you could hear him over the music. “It’s so obvious that you like him. I honestly didn’t think it was possible to witness heart eyes in real life.”

You playfully nudged him. “Shut up.”

You had a feeling that he was mostly joking with his words, but still, you couldn’t help but think, Did it really look that obvious?

You turned to look at Steve and were about to ask him what exactly looked so obvious and how was he so easily able to notice something that Eddie somehow never had.

However, you immediately noticed that his attention was on a girl across the bar who was looking right back at him with a matching smile on her face.

“Keep it in your pants tonight, Harrington,” You told him, elbow bumping his side again. “And until the end of February too.”

“I know. Sorry,” Steve said, looking away from the girl and back at the stage.

“Y’know, I was mostly joking last night when I said that not dating anyone this month would probably be hard for you. But, now seeing that it actually is hard for you, I’m just concerned. There are tons of support groups that you can join to help with this problem,” You said, trying your hardest to keep a straight face as you said your words, but ending up smiling the entire time.

“Ha ha,” He said sarcastically, which only made you smile more.

You focused back on Eddie, listening as he said that he was about to perform what would be the last song of the night. You shouted happily in anticipation and smiled at him when his eyes met yours.

Once again, you couldn’t help but wonder, Was it obvious?

At some point during that final song, Steve placed an arm around you again, and it surprisingly didn’t feel all too weird that time around.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。. .・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。

next part!

taglist (lmk if you want to be added or taken off<333); @eddiernunson , @loulouloueh , @the-aster , @blckburd , @totally-bogus-timelady , @yujyujj , @irhdifartzamfyaa , @mochminnie , @munsonssweets , @blckbrrybasket , @xprloki

#steve harrington x reader #steve harrington fic #steve harrington fluff #steve harrington x you #steve harrington imagine #steve harrington x fem!reader #stranger things fluff #steve harrington smut #eddie munson x reader #bestfriend!eddie munson #eddie munson series #steve harrington imagines #steve harrington angst #stranger things imagine #stranger things series #stranger things fic

167 notes · View notes