#jim hopper x self insert | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

exilynn · 28 days ago

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title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Modern Eddie X OC)

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

And when he rolled a 20, he knew that love was never a game, and that he had won the lottery of love, but had no idea, until it happened. The bat of Love bit your soul, and nothing would be the same again.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Eddie Munson/Original Female Character(s), Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Angst, Slow Burn, Sexual Tension, Drug Use, Childhood Trauma, Hurt/Comfort, Sadness/Grief, Childhood Friends, Original Character(s), Bullying, Eddie Munson Needs a Hug, Protective Eddie Munson, Background Hellfire Club (Stranger Things), Basketball Eddie Munson, Explicit Sexual Content, Eddie Munson has a Crush on Quinn Josephine, So many references 80's time, Eddie Munson Has a Sister, Eddie Munson moms Headcanon, Past Jason Carver/Eddie Munson, Alternate Universe - Different First Meeting, Antonella Munson, Corroded Coffin Concert (Stranger Things), Minor Eddie Munson/Original Character(s), Adopted Sibling Relationship, Quinn Josephine has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Loss of Virginity, Good Friend Dustin Henderson, A rewrite of Stranger Things for Eddie Non-canon Love Circle, Alternate Universe - No Upside Down (Stranger Things), Protective Parent Jim "Chief" Hopper, Denial of Feelings, Good Friend Eddie Munson, Character Death, Smoking, Eddie Munson Lives, Blow Jobs, Eddie Munson is an ABBA Fan, Eddie Munson is Whipped, Eddie is a simp but just for Quinn, Eddie Munson has Golden Retriever Energy, Eddie Munson Has a Praise Kink, Eddie Munson Has a Daddy Kink, Eddie Munson Has a Breeding Kink, Degradation Kink, Sexual Overstimulation, Eddie Munson is an Rob Zombie Fan

Good reading! 🫦♥️

7. Strange World

I decide to offer the boy, Lucas, some more accessible comfort, who once again needs me, but I don’t dare complain. However, I find myself trapped in a crossroads of hellish thoughts...

After all this mess, I prayed for a quick solution, but heaven was on break.

I take the Asian guy to the kitchen, with him leaning on one of my shoulders, when, to my surprise, I find the fools: Stiles and Jamie, the great.

So lost in trivial matters that they don't even notice my arrival.

— Hamilton, no more of those crappy drivers! — Jamie chimes in.

— Are there any good British drivers? I usually don’t talk about Brazil, but I think the "king of wheels," Senna, trumps everyone! — Stiles explains, clearly a motorsports enthusiast.

— But I listed living people! — Jamie uses sarcasm.

— You’re mean, Jamie! — the curly-haired one grumbles.

— When did I ever say I was a good angel? — the blonde has no scruples.

— I never thought you were good, but you went too far, saying it like you don’t even have a damn heart beating in your chest!

— Heavy is stone! — Jamie shrugs.

— You can’t talk to you, you have no idea the crap you’re saying! — Stiles' irritated tone makes Jamie laugh.

— Should we talk about the deceased? — the curly-haired one offers the blonde the silence. — Fine, I just want you to have fun and forget about the Howling prince!

He’s probably referring to the shitbag, Carver.

— I can’t forget about an unrequited love! — Stiles laments, but Jamie consoles him with a pat on the back.

— This sea of melancholy irritates me. I’m not gay, but hey, get over it. Or should I remind you when Jason burned down our nerdy fun, the Hellfire?

— I think you’ve said more than enough, buddy!

Jamie sighs, trying to help the curly-haired one with that love dilemma.

— We know that crap sticks in your mind and heart... You can’t stop loving someone overnight. It can take years for the feeling to go away.

— Today’s graduation, we’ve waited our whole lives for this. I’m not going to fall into the lap of melancholy! — Stiles definitely wasn’t excited.

— You don’t need Carver to have fun. Let’s go and play arcade games. Or we can have our party outside. How about inviting the whole Hellfire?

— A party with weed? Eddie won’t agree, without the group’s master, no one smokes! — Stiles rejects.

— Eddie doesn’t care, he’s busy falling in love. His drug is something else now, man. — Jamie has never spoken so much truth.

— I didn’t even want to interrupt while he was dancing with a redhead. Is Eddie living a romance tonight? He danced in front of everyone, really? — Jamie seems different now.

— I bet he never felt safe enough to be himself, but someone saw his world... — Stiles gets what happened.

— Lily? I don’t doubt that she and Eddie understand each other, despite the love-hate thing. I hate how cute they are together. — Jamie shoots, downcast.

— Was it love at first sight or hate? When we’re talking about Eddie and his love stories? — Stiles asks, waiting for the blonde’s answer.

— Stiles, there’s no bad weather with Eddie when he meets the right person, someone who understands his passions... — Jamie’s never been this optimistic.

— If it goes wrong, I’ll create a memorial for Eddie, if there’s another love death! — Stiles makes me laugh from afar.

— The guy needs love in his life, just like I do! — Jamie defends me, and I’m left speechless.

— You know what they say in South Korea about stalker fans? — Stiles comments, his passion for Asia showing.

— I know it’s bizarre. And when we’re talking about Eddie, if the media finds out about any relationship of his, he’ll protect the girl to his last breath!

— I think we shouldn’t talk so much about Eddie’s personal life, huh. — The curly-haired one acknowledges.

— Are you scared of Eddie? — Jamie laughs, scaring him.

— Me? — Stiles denies with all his strength, but we know it’s a lie. — Hmm, what do I do to forget about Jason?

— Pretend you don’t care about the unwanted’s existence! — Jamie advises seriously.

Suddenly, I show up like a ghost, intending to terrify them and finally be rescued with the Asian guy.

— BOO! — I shout. — Pathetic! How much betrayal, huh? Hellfire Club members lying to the master but getting caught in the act. — I do my best journalist impression, holding an imaginary microphone, like I have some sensational fact to reveal. — How do you feel as traitors? Aren’t you scared of Vecna coming after you?

— Not at all, I’ll smack that damn Lich’s ass until he calls his mom! — Jamie exclaims.

— Were you really talking from the heart about me, or was it all just pretend? — I ask, curious.

— Are you sensitive, Eddie? — Jamie teases with an evil laugh.

— NO. The fact that you lied to a friend makes you traitors. Why did you say you weren’t staying at the dance? That brat, another Munson! — I mutter to myself.

— It’s ugly calling your sister that way. She might not be blood-related, but she deserves at least some respect. — Jamie defends her.

— It doesn’t matter, she’s my sister. Or do you know more about her than I do? — I shoot him a furious look, balancing the Asian guy on my shoulders.

— Since when do you need to be related to be close? — Jamie snaps. He’s right, but you know, I never admit when someone gets it right. — And how about the moves on girls? Any little lamb on the radar?

— It’s none of your business who I’m hooking up with. Mind your own damn life, man!

— I’m just implying you’re not weak at flirting. I remember you saying you lost your virginity with a girl in Wayne’s trailer and bragging about being the first to have sexual experience!

— Do you think I’m an idiot to go around exposing my adventures? I’m not like that, and my memory of those times is almost null. Maybe she was Wayne’s friend’s daughter back then...

They look at me with their mouths open.

— Old Wayne wasn’t just fueled by beer and fries? Was he a discreet heartthrob from Howling? — Jamie pre-judges. I give him a piercing, investigative look.

— Be careful when talking about Wayne. I’ll hunt you down if I hear you disrespecting the bearded guy!

— How many years did Eddie live with old Munson? — Stiles asks, leaning against the fridge.

I growl, considering my fraternal feelings for the gray-haired guy.

— Fine, second-hand gossipers, I lived with Wayne until I was thirteen. — I answer, something I wouldn’t tell anyone else.

— And... Quinn... — Jamie suddenly blurts out.

— Josephine was her third name? Eddie, do you still like her? — Stiles suggests, talking about my childhood love.

— Doesn’t matter, and how long are you two going to keep pretending I’m not carrying Lee on my shoulders, huh? — I remind the two of them.

— We got drunk. Look, Stiles insisted on coming back when he found out there would be a party, thanks to our Asian friend. That’s when I gave in. After all, what’s better than a party with drinks and girls?

— A more fake explanation than that good boy pose of yours! — I reject his justification, shooting him a glare.

— You’re not perfect either, Munson? — Jamie snaps.

— What right do you have to point out flaws when you act like the most sociable guy, when in reality, you hate conformity and people in general? Does this behavior change have anything to do with Lily? Are you going to stop being “Eddie, the outcast” for a piece of meat?

I react immediately, defending the way he referred to the redhead, my half-elf dream girl...

— Don’t talk about Lily like that, it’s vulgar. You don’t know her like I do. — I lose patience with his sexist side.

— And... Can I have that too? — Jamie says, with the most shameless look.

They say hitting is vandalism? Well, I don’t care!

The blonde, with a bit of cynicism, adds, trying to refute my argument.

I wanted to protect Lily, the half-elf of my dreams, however, Jamie seems to have more authority with girls than I do, being more full of schemes and "Plan B" ideas that would wipe out my strategies. He knows how to say things, and I act like an idiot, talking more nonsense than the guys from South Park.

---

When I felt lost and out of orbit, doubt crept in during my childhood. Boys rejected me and didn’t want to play with me in preschool.

One day, Wayne saw me alone, throwing pebbles near the lake where we lived for a while. It was then that he told me that if I ever felt out of place in any group, time, or space, I should create my own world.

Since that advice, I’ve honored it. That’s how I found people who respected my imaginative and creative side. People who drank from the same source... like the friends who play RPG!

As for friends, well, I can’t just stand by while Lucas lives his damned life as if tomorrow doesn’t bring the worst: choices that hurt him internally and affect his physical body. Maybe taking him home was the best choice.

Amid all these concerns, I still hate school and the individuals born in that snake pit. And Jamie might have flaws, but he’s not part of the toxic group of bastards who are Carver’s henchmen.

The blonde may have his share of problems, but he doesn’t fit the profile of guys who use girls and boast to their friends. After a period as captain of the Tigers’ basketball team, I chose to pass the leadership on to Jay. The truth about me: I never saw myself there, my thing has always been music.

I left the team without them knowing. I even told Coach Staver, a cool Russian, who advised me to go after things because they would never come to me if I didn’t chase them like a madman.

It was never about subjecting yourself to situations just because someone said it was the best for you. Plus, once your heart beats for something else, nothing else matters...

Basketball was never something that brought me satisfaction. Not even mentally. That field was what my dad planted for me, but my mom knew that music was my most fascinating garden...

Leaving the team without telling anyone was the most painful fact. That was the hardest choice of my life, just like when I got involved in drug trafficking.

Why would I do that? To avoid starving? Alanfiero Munson led the family into bankruptcy when he refused to pay child support. However, Jane won the child support case.

During that time, I became completely open to things that would take me away from trafficking. That’s when I met a guy, Jack Hamleto. We became close one night at the arcade. I lost, but he sympathized with me when he saw me win all the other rounds in a doubles tournament.

The start of the bond was quite unusual. At the time, he worked at a market in Wostlio, a region near Howling. He told me about his childhood dreams. He said he wanted to honor his father, a boxer, but also follow a profession with more responsibility.

In that conversation, I talked about one day trying another sport. It’s like they say: “An empty mind is the devil’s workshop.”

In my case, useless thoughts were doing me terrible harm. So I declared to my mind: I’m tired of being your enemy, and I started fighting for my aspirations.

Isn’t it funny that when we’re kids, so many professions revolve around the giant vision we have of a distant future? Imagination flies far, like a rocket heading to space.

But for that, I need to tell you how I met him and how he guided me on the path of wisdom, along with other people.

On a windy night, the wind indicated a change in the weather. Not by chance, it would blow in my favor. Ignoring the bad weather, I entered the gym my mom made me look for. I pushed open the door, looking for the possibility of becoming an apprentice, or at least starting the journey that would lead me to most of my truths.

Ahead, the unexpected meeting with an old neighbor. I didn’t expect to find Jack Hamleto! My neighbor, whom I hadn’t seen since I was fifteen, had managed to fulfill the greatest of his childhood dreams.

— Welcome to Coffin Of Bats! — Jack greets me warmly, unaware that I knew him and he knew me, as we had been friends in the past.

Strangely, this meeting would mark the beginning of an unexpected journey, where I would not only face challenges with boxing — as if I had the strength of thunder, like Raiden — but also immerse myself in new hobbies and, who knows, enter a phase of making new friends.

At first, Jack doesn’t recognize me. I shake his hand in greeting, dripping with sweat, remembering the last time we talked about the “incident” with the adult magazines that appeared in his trash. Hamleto had an intolerant family who didn’t accept anyone who didn’t share the same faith. They followed these ideals because of his mother’s crazy faith.

The “incident” with the magazines was Jack’s fate, the punishment. However, they accused me as if I were the main suspect, just because I was the guy who dressed in black and listened to the music they pointed out, loving the “devil.”

Actually, I only found out what Playboy magazines were when I was eight, from the secret collection Wayne hid inside the nightstand.

While exploring the inside of the gym, I caught Jack’s attention. Even though he didn’t recognize me, I hoped at least he’d say something like: “Eddie, the weirdo? Is it you?”

But life rarely follows our expectations. Sometimes, it’s a heartless bitch.

To get straight to the point, I say:

— Hamleto? — He examines me for a few seconds, raising an eyebrow.

— Sorry, but do we know each other from somewhere? I don’t remember you, if I was your teacher... — he says, scratching his neck.

Jack looks different. He doesn’t even smile like the fool he was before. I remember how he used to laugh at the “meaningless” jokes about the metal circle.

When I told him that Ozzy bit the head off a bat, he thought it was a joke!

Am I the only one among our friends who hasn’t matured in this social circle? I know it’s normal to forget friends when you never see them again.

I bet my life it was some friend who followed Carver’s “good deeds” and threw a bunch of magazines in the Hamleto trash. The result was Jack’s mother punishing him for being a pervert and dragging me into this mess.

The point is, when we reach that age where everything becomes a novelty, everything turns into a series of questions. Like the infamous: “How was I made?” Or the classic: “Was it the stork? No, it was your dad putting the seed in your mom!”

---

Children aren’t foolish about human reproduction. They suspect millions of things until they get confirmation that their parents created a false fairy tale!

It's ironic how some people with religious and ignorant mindsets say that sex was meant to be the devil's party.

Nothing they say makes sense. Blaming the devil? If you're the one choosing to engage in the act? It’s not him saying, “Go ahead, put a bunch of future demons in her!”

My friend, the devil is busy cleaning up the mess in hell for those competing for his throne. He doesn't care if you "mess up the clown's hair"!

But what could be worse if Jack remembered the magazine incident?

Life is a real mess. Sometimes it feels like a crazy patient in the sanatorium pushing you in all directions.

I decide to take the lead and reveal myself to Jack.

— Hmm, don’t remember me? — When he’s about to confirm that he doesn’t remember, he looks at me closely, more deeply, and suddenly says:

— Eddie? No way, it’s you? You look like a rubber tree sprout! — He looks at me in disbelief, and I laugh.

— I haven’t grown that much, I look like a goblin! — I admit with a half-smile.

— Goblin?

The guy doesn’t know what an RPG race is? Expected.

— Maybe you won’t even understand if I explain where the reference comes from. Is it worth trying?

— Eddie, I think I owe you an explanation for that time when my mom threw you out of my house... — He tries to apologize for the past trouble.

I interrupt and then think:

— It felt like Uncle Phil and Jazz! — I admit with a mocking laugh.

— Dude, it’s a limited view of human boundaries!

— Do you still make fun of your family's religiosity? — I ask, not too confident that I’ll get a pleasant answer.

— I’m Christian now. Every Saturday, I attend church services with my dad. I like being connected with God...

— With your dad? — I look at him in disbelief. — Oh, damn, I’m sorry.

I provoke, but I'm sure he’ll agree with me, like he used to.

I enjoy poking fun at the religious fanaticism of some people, which becomes almost a deadly joke.

I grew up with Wayne in a religious environment, we used to attend Catholic temples. However, now I don’t go anymore simply because I can't stand people who say to “worship” Jesus, but when they go home, they badmouth others behind their backs.

Everyone has the faith they need. You feed whatever you want, but that’s yours, don’t throw it on others. And it happens that you distance yourself when you realize it’s not your space to judge people by the way they dress or behave.

— Did I go too far? — Uncertainty hits me.

— Munson, faith has been keeping me away from the darkness... — Jack admits, seriously.

— Come on, why are you talking like your mom? — I ask, but I don’t think he’ll take it lightly.

— Dude, religion and all this God stuff is giving me a new view of my life... — He murmurs, inspired.

— My bad for saying it like that, I don’t have a habit of worshipping that kind of thing. Although I have my own faith, I don’t want to be part of something social...

— I respect you, whatever religion you follow, Eddie!

— Hmm... Don’t worry, I don’t worship the devil, okay?

— Never thought! What brought you to my gym, huh? — He asks, seeming to want to avoid the topic, and I understand.

I scratch my neck, trying to find a way to convince him to give me a place in his boxing gym.

— I even feel strange just exposing something personal, I’ve never found a way to forget a girl. I thought if I occupied my mind, I’d be close to forgetting her, but every step I take away, she gets closer...

Jack catches the dilemma faster than my reasoning. My brief rant makes him shake his head, seeming to understand the heartbreak. He looks at me like a therapist listens to a patient, trying to figure out the root of the problem.

— Hey... I’m sorry for your loss, but you’re handling it. Facing the demons, Eddie?

I’m not surprised that he nailed it on the first try. If it were a lottery prize, I’d be rich.

I knew I’d have to face every demon that dismantled my love story, those damn creatures that didn’t want her to have a happy ending. The long-awaited prelude of intertwined destinies, which even time wouldn’t be able to undo, was still far from being a certainty for me.

Although I never fully believed in the existence of love, I prayed it would find me before my body joined the cold earth and was swallowed by worms.

Like being in a cemetery of “forgotten loves,” every part of me, every memory, would dissolve, and so, every dream would be left behind, making me realize that the search for love might have always been in vain.

But what if love really crossed paths with me? Or maybe it already has, but fear stopped me from going toward it?

I sigh heavily, shaking my head and looking down.

— Your sigh says it all, man. You wanna train here? Even after my mom accused you that time with the magazine thing?

— I don’t know about boxing, just life that boxes me every day! — I joke. — Look, my uncle Wayne had Sugar Ray collections, and I was amazed by the way the guy boxed. I want a hobby...

— You told me about that... Honestly, Eddie, I saw you as a rockstar, not a boxer. You were born the God of metal! — Jack compliments me.

I feel his hope and the support I’ve been asking for so long, but I get lost in confusion when I see him supporting me as a respected future musician...

— Partner, no one needs to understand your aspirations. And whoever wants to support you, take them on this journey!

— I don’t want to be what my dad planted for me. Do you still think boxing is possible, or do you have a better suggestion? — I ask, searching for a light at the end of the tunnel. — The future... Damn basketball, maybe I should’ve focused more on basketball. But dreams are distant and never find me...

— Those words don’t exist in this temple. Listen, I’ll offer you some days of initial training, and if you want, you can do something bigger later. Like becoming a professional boxer. That’s my offer, what do you think? — Jack offers a tempting deal.

He tries to charm me, but I know I need more than words to fully trust him.

— What if I say I don’t know how to deal with losses anymore?

— Carl Jung said: “Happiness would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness.” Do you understand the magnitude? Pain and joy are two sides of the same coin. We need to face the many faces of pain. It’s something fleeting. Without sadness, how would you have joy?

I listen to the teachings with the utmost seriousness, just like a disciple listens to the master.

— Sounds like what I’ve been looking for...

— Taking punches? — He jokes, suppressing his laugh.

— One more punch doesn’t hurt! — I say, quickly reflecting on the uncertainty of what I just said, and decide to avoid entering discussions that might cause me trouble.

But in response, Jack just laughs.

— Eddie, classes start soon, okay?

— Can it be after school? Seems a bit rushed to do this while I’m studying and keeping busy with the RPG club. I’m the president of the Hellfire Club at school...

— RPG Club? — His mocking tone makes me raise an eyebrow. — I’m joking. Even though we’re friends, I’ll be your master. Welcome to Coffin Of Bats, Eddie Munson...

I interrupt him, putting my hand on his shoulder:

— Heard that at the entrance. No need to repeat it like a scratched record! — I smile, a slight tug at my lips.

— Munson, this is not a place free for sinning. It’s a sacred space! — He declares seriously, to the point where I almost believe he’s angry.

— Oh... Dude...

He lets out a laugh.

— You should’ve seen your face, it looked like you saw a ghost. — He laughs at my grimaces. — I wasn’t serious, I’ll be serious, but not here. Now, I want to take advantage of this unique chance to meet up with the neighbor...

— Sure! Just can’t preach the word, because I’ve left the temple. Now I make jokes, because if I had become a pastor, I’d be burning the money of the believers!

---

Jack takes me to the ring, where some of his students are training. He catches their attention and introduces me.

— This is Eddie, an old friend. He’s joining the gym soon. Be polite!

When we shake hands, I feel the strength in his grip. It’s pretty firm, given the toned and muscular body he’s showing off.

— Give a decent handshake! Don’t be scared, freak. — Jack jokes, chewing gum with a smile.

— How good is the master of beatings? — I ask, with an ironic tone.

The question comes out as if it were a job interview.

— The productivity of the lessons I’ve learned from this genius here has been surreal. He freed me from anger. I learned to balance my emotions with him. — The redhead responds.

— Is he tough? Or just theatrics? — I challenge, maintaining my composure.

The others try to suppress their laughter, surprised by my reaction.

— If you think Tyson, the greatest punch master, is strong, you haven’t met the heavyweight master! — Carter responds.

— Don’t scare him, he’s not that bad! — Kim retorts, and I flash a confident smile.

— Masters should be tough! — I reply, with a challenging grin.

Some time later, Jack calls me as he gets off the ring. I had thought they were going to fight until they were broken, but they were just warming up.

— I was thinking, Eddie, how about we swing by the bar and catch up? Any problem if you get home a little later?

He insists, making me drop the decision to follow my mother’s overprotective advice of not hanging out with strangers.

— No... How about raspberry soda? — I suggest with a smile, trying to seem casual.

Jane was working, attending patients, and my sister was out with her friends. What harm is there in breaking a few rules?

We leave the gym and head to a nearby bar. Jack didn’t seem as tough as when he was teaching. We find an empty table and settle in comfortably. We call the waitress, who soon brings our fruit sodas.

— And about this thing of running away... How have you been feeling about it? — He asks, as he fills my cup with raspberry soda.

I squint my eyes, searching for the right words. I want to be honest, after all, Jack is a great friend.

— Sad... Exhausted, for everything going wrong. And, to be honest, I can’t stand being excluded from the emotional side of life anymore...

— You talked about that girl... Did you kick her to the curb? Were you an idiot with her? — Jack asks, with a curious look.

— I would never do anything to hurt the girl I’ve loved since childhood... — I reply, trying to be clear.

— I swear, I can’t imagine Eddie Munson being an idiot with women. What happened? — Jack asks, curious.

— She was never my girlfriend, but I always had a huge attachment... Quinn was the start of my journey in love. Ah, I didn’t say that! — I scold myself.

— If there’s love, why would it be embarrassing? Is she from here? — Jack asks, and suddenly, I remember her face, from when we were kids, when she lived across the street.

— No, but she lived in the same neighborhood... And then, she suddenly evaporated from Howling without even saying goodbye... — I respond, a little melancholic.

— Eddie, what if it’s not the time for judging, but for thinking? She must have had reasons for leaving your life. Do you know if she had to leave for personal issues? — Jack asks, with a serious expression.

— I’ve been through so many things... But the biggest one is that she never loved me and ran away from me, because of who I am, the freak from Howling... — I let out a rant.

— What if it’s just the course of things, Eddie? Sometimes people drift apart to come back together, more mature... — He reflects.

I stay silent, looking at him.

— Don’t see it as a teenage dream, but Quinn is different from the other girls. I’ve known that since we were kids. She always said that little things should be admired, like the magic of being alive or savoring your favorite sweet. — I respond, thoughtful.

— You guys liked each other a lot... A genuine love that started in childhood. That’s movie stuff. But how long has it been since you last talked? — Jack asks.

— Since childhood. I remember my uncle Wayne used to hang out with her dad for drinking nights and they’d play poker. Their marriage was already in crisis at the time, and he complained about the lack of jobs... — I respond, with a distant look.

— Do you feel like the distance could’ve been avoided? That she would have stayed if you weren’t so young? — Jack asks, with a gentle tone.

I pause, looking at him sincerely.

— I used to think that. But now I see it wasn’t about me or her dad. It was just life’s stuff... — I speak, almost with an epiphany.

A sense of clarity washes over me.

— About losses, I know it’s not easy. Like my mom... She was hit by a car on the tracks when she tried to get out of the car... — Jack gets emotional. — I was going to tell you, but I didn’t know how... I still visit the old house. Jamie’s mom is living there now...

I squint my eyes.

— You remember little Lower? — I sigh. — This is serious, what happened to Aunt Hamleto? Man, my condolences...

The memory catches me off guard, reminding me of the days when we were little gamer kids: me, Jamie, and him.

— Yeah, she passed away, buddy... But I’m being strong like my dad... — Jack speaks, his voice heavy with emotion.

— I’m sorry for the jokes earlier. Are you okay? — I apologize, guilt weighing on me like a burden.

— Eddie, you didn’t know she passed. And that house, where I lived with my mom... it was a refuge of good memories. I only had happy moments there, and some embarrassing ones, like the magazines... But we hold onto the best, don’t we? — Jack responds, trying to calm himself.

— I’m sorry... but think that she must be looking out for you from up there, right? — I point to the sky.

Jack smiles softly.

— I think so too. With every passing minute, the longing gets stronger, buddy... Whenever I’m teaching, I feel like I’m doing it for her. Even if she was a bit... sinful in her faith. — He murmurs, emotional.

— No, Jack. It’s okay. She just got lost in her level of faith... We all need to find ways to deal with loss, and each one finds their own way. The important thing is that you’re being what you’ve always dreamed of being now... — I try to comfort him in my own way, more directly.

— And you? How are you dealing with things from the past? — Jack asks, with a gentle voice, genuinely interested.

I take a deep breath before answering.

— Loneliness hasn’t been the best companion, but hey, maybe together we can find the light at the end of the tunnel. — I put my hand on his shoulder.

He nods, seeming to understand.

— We’re in this journey together, Munson. If it’s up to me, I’m going to help you be the friend I always wanted to see succeeding... — Jack says, placing his hand on my shoulder in a gesture of solidarity.

— Let’s change the subject. Is there something you like to do to, you know, escape your problems? — He asks, with a curious smile.

— I used to paint, draw faces, play guitar riffs to forget the anxieties. Heavy metal, rock. Do you know Maiden? — I ask, trying to seem casual.

He nods, showing genuine interest.

— That band is amazing. But I’m talking about something beyond playing guitar. — His curiosity is palpable.

I’m surprised. People usually ask about material things, like jobs or cars, but Jack is interested in what really makes my heart beat faster.

---

— Painting, but my muse has always been Quinn. I saw her in every detail, every stroke... — I explain, leaving the sentence hanging, as if talking about an unmentioned muse.

Jack's posture softens, a look of understanding forming on his face.

— We all face challenges that shape us. Whether in art, in music... Art comforts us, helps us move on. But tell me, Eddie, do you want to get over Quinn, or are you still fighting for her love?

Jack's question hits me, a direct blow to the chest, touching places I’d rather avoid, but now it becomes impossible to ignore.

He’s not just a friend, he's like a guide in the chaos of my emotions.

— This heart can’t forget her. Quinn is the reason for my happiness... and my pain. When I look at our love, I find a reason to keep going... — My voice falters, exposing the weight of what I feel.

Jack nods with empathy, like someone who understands the pain of unrequited love.

— Show her your paintings. It may sound cliché, but let her see your soul. What do you think? — Jack suggests, and the idea starts to make sense.

— What if she thinks they’re ugly? — My insecurity shows in the words.

Jack laughs, breaking the tension in the air.

— She won’t reject your art unless you’ve done something... peculiar. Eddie, talents are born because they’re someone’s destiny...

His words touch something deep within me.

— Talents are treasures we have inside. We’re all artists in some way — he shares his life philosophy, and I look at him with admiration.

— You’re a poet, Hamleto... Oops, Jack Dawson. All that’s left is for you to say you're the king of the world! — I joke, remembering the nickname I gave him.

Jack loves to philosophize, just like Rose loved Jack Dawson.

— Damn, even saying all that, you’re lost, aren’t you? — Jack observes, his perception hitting the mark.

— I’m afraid of making a mistake, of facing the past... And you, do you have that fear too? — I confess, trying to understand if he shares the same shadows.

— Who isn’t haunted by their own mistakes? But you have two choices: either you accept life’s blows, or you keep whining — he advises, firm as always.

— Wow, that one stung! — I exclaim, placing my hand on my chest, feeling the raw truth.

— I’m not the type of teacher who’ll pat you on the back. But that’s the truth. Outside of here, I’m a guy passionate about life, sensitive, always seeking to evolve... — Jack reveals, and that surprises me.

At that moment, he becomes more than a friend, almost like a mentor.

— The inner child needs affection. Munson, show Quinn without fear what you’ve been painting all this time. Only then will she see who you really are. And that’s where the magic lies, Kaboom! You’ll win her heart! — Jack exclaims, making an explosion sound that echoes through the pub.

— I can’t forget my muse... — I murmur, touched.

Jack smiles, hearing the words leave my mouth with a sincerity I didn’t know I had.

— And if she reciprocates, buddy, imagine this scene: you, in your thirties, playing RPG. Your wife filming you with the kids in the living room. They’ll love your leadership style, Eddie. They’ll think “Dad Munson” is the coolest!

The compliment makes me smile, imagining the scene.

— That’s a big responsibility! I don’t see myself as the perfect father! — I respond, laughing.

— No one is born knowing, buddy. Experience is what teaches. Responsibility comes with the little one in your hands. Do you get it? — Jack speaks affectionately.

— That’s why I’m afraid... of not being what she expects. I was never loved by my father. I don’t even know how to be a dad... — I confess, downcast.

— Munson, you’re not your father. You’re an amazing person! — Jack tells me with conviction.

— Are you really complimenting me? — I look at him suspiciously.

— It’s not a compliment, it’s the truth. You need to stop seeing yourself as less because of something that’s not your fault! — he says firmly.

Doubt begins to dissipate, and a light of hope enters me.

— This is going to sound weird... or gay, I don’t know. But the world needs you, Jack Hamleto! — I say, joking.

— I loved that, buddy. But you’re wrong... — Jack responds, laughing.

We laugh together, remembering the childhood confusions. My eyes fall on the bracelet he wears, the same one we shared with Jamie.

— Do you still collect things, Eddie? — he asks, curious.

— Lots of trinkets. Why do you ask? — I wonder.

He remains silent, and I wait for his reaction.

— Nothing. It’s just... I’m making beaded bracelets. I thought you might like them. — he offers, and I’m impressed by what I see.

— Seriously? I like bracelets, pendants... — I respond, thinking.

— I only have bracelets, buddy. — he reveals, showing a collection of designs.

— Hmm, what’s your style? Black? Colorful? — I ask, curious.

— Black, but some colorful ones would look good too... — Jack says.

— I have a few with leather details that are almost sold out. What do you think? — he shows me the design.

I take the bracelet in my hands and try it on my wrist.

— It’s beautiful. How much does it cost? — I ask, interested.

— How about for free? — Jack insists.

I’m surprised but refuse.

— That’s not fair. Time is money, so... — I respond, putting five dollars in his pocket.

— You’re my friend. Just take it, Eddie. — he insists.

I refuse again, then he grabs his backpack and puts the five dollars in one of the pockets.

— Fine, I’ll give you a free bracelet. — he shows me some, and one name catches my attention.

— Quinn? — My voice falters when I see the name.

— You’re looking at the bracelet with the name... Quinn? — he notices, but I try to look away.

— I can’t help it... — I murmur.

— Do you want to take it? — he asks, persistent.

— I can’t accept something for free... — I respond, uncomfortable.

— Then, as a token of friendship. Take it, Eddie! — he insists, smiling.

— You’re kind, Jack, but time has value. — I insist, trying to balance the gesture of friendship with fairness.

He laughs, realizing the dilemma.

— Take it. If you ever find Quinn, let me know. I want to know that you married her. — he says with a smile.

— I don’t think that’s going to happen... — I confess, not knowing how to deal with what he said.

Jack laughs again and suggests a toast.

— Shall we toast with soda? — he asks, and I laugh, shaking my head.

— Better than alcohol, I’ll guarantee that. — I respond.

He gives me a pat on the back, relaxed.

— Both are bad, buddy. Maybe not more than my ex-girlfriend... — Jack comments.

After a while, I ask:

— Have you ever thought about dating someone to forget that ex-love? — I surprise myself with my curiosity.

He looks at me, surprised.

— I’m dating Lake Carlson. She’s crazy about criminal cases and astrology, just like me. — he reveals, relaxed.

— Lake Carlson... Doesn’t she draw? — I ask, trying to remember where I know that last name from.

— How do you know that? — Jack looks suspicious.

— I think you’re dating my sister’s friend. What a coincidence! — I respond, surprised.

— Really? — Jack questions.

— You never know, huh? — I say, laughing.

After a while, he touches my arm.

— Eddie, recommend me a nerdy book? — Jack asks.

— Want to cry? Watch the movies and read Tolkien’s saga! — I say, laughing.

— I’ve never seen The Lord of the Rings... — Jack responds, surprised.

---

I widen my eyes.

— It can’t be... — I curse him. — What are you waiting for? Let’s binge-watch the movies! I’ll fly like a bat to your house!

— Not now, Eddie. And what’s your favorite historical romance?

— Romance? No, I just want to find my half-elf... — I say, interrupting without meaning to.

— Do you really love Tolkien’s world? I’ll buy one of the books when I leave the gym tomorrow. — He says, excited.

— Every time I see that damn Galadriel, I remember Quinn... — I grumble.

— Eddie Munson, you’ve loved this girl since childhood! If that’s not true love, it’s obsession! — He touches my arm, joking.

— You won’t die alone. No one spends their whole life without finding love. At some point, it will notice you and hook you! — He tries to give me a lecture, but I can’t help the sarcasm.

— What are you suggesting? That Quinn would come back into my life and understand the curse that’s been laid upon me? Spit it out, Jack!

— Calm down, nothing is impossible. If you believe, you can attract her back... — Jack starts with that emotional intelligence talk, and I honestly don’t know what to think.

— And everything I’ve asked for so far hasn’t come true, why? — I respond, skeptical. I’m not a fan of this magic crystal talk, but what I’m living through seems almost unhealthy.

— Don’t give up on what makes your heart beat, rocker! — Jack insists.

We talk until the bar closes. Then, Jack invited me to check out his new house. It was a fun end to the night; we spent hours playing Mortal Kombat and discovering other games I’d never heard of.

Even his dad showed up and got interested in the game. Unbelievable, but we played together until midnight, like a bunch of teenagers. We created our own bubble of fun while I ate a lot of junk. Definitely the most fulfilling night of my life!

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griffonsgrove · 2 years ago

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~~ Welcome to my Blog ! ~~

Ello! I’m Night!! I’m new to the whole Tumblr writing blog, but I made this account to get out any ideas or drabbles that I may have during fandom brain rot (which I frequently have) and to also help enhance my writing ability!

First and foremost, I am an artist, so I may draw little doodles to go with certain head canons, drabbles or one shots! it helps me to visualize the story more!

So without further ado, let me tell you what i’m interested in!!

FANDOMS I’LL WRITE FOR :

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

(Hazbin Hotel/Helluva Boss)

Alastor

Vox

Valentino

Angel Dust

Husk

Sir Pentious

Lucifer

Stolas

Mammon

Asmodeus/Fizzaroli

Blitz

Striker

Loona

(Creepypasta)

Slenderman

Trenderman

Eyeless Jack

Zalgo

Jeff the Killer

Ben Drowned

Splendorman

Offenderman

Masky (Tim)

Hoodie (Brian)

Laughing Jack

Jane the Killer

(Gravity Falls)

Bill Cipher

Stanford Pines

Stanley Pines

(Slashers)

Ghostface (Billy and Stu)

Thomas Hewitt

Bubba Sawyer

Freddy Kruger

Jason Vorhees

Yautja (The Predator)

Pennywise

Art the Clown

Micheal Myers

RZ!Micheal Myers

Brahms Heelshire

(Across The Spider-Verse)

Miguel O’Hara

Hobie Brown

Peter B. Parker

The Spot

(Villainous)

Black Hat

Dr. Flug

Demencia

5.0.5 (Platonic)

Penumbra

(Stranger Things)

Eddie Munson

Steve Harrington

Jim Hopper

Billy Hargrove

Johnathan Byers

What I Will Write:

Headcanons

One-shots

Drabbles

Smut/Nsfw

Platonic Relationships

Self-Insert/OC’s

Moderate gore/Body Horror

X readers

(Ask about kinks and fetishes)

What I Will Not Write:

absolutely NO minor x adult relationships (unless they’re strictly platonic)

I typically won’t do Canon Character x Canon Character ships, just because I’ve never really done so! Idk if i’d be good at it

I probably have more to add to this list, but i’ll add to it later on

Now that, that’s outta the way! I'm opening writing requests!! Please feel free to send in any type of request you’d want to see done, into my inbox!

Currently since I'm out of college for the summer, I have a lot of free time to explore and pump out new work! As I’ve said before, I really want to try and enhance my writing ability so that it can be better for the future!

So i’d really appreciate this post being shared or just you guys sending in a small request, or drabble idea to get me started! I’m really excited to get started on this page and explore further, Until then have a great day! <333

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veeveethebunee · 1 year ago

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INTRODUCTIONS!!

--> ok i will be honest i have no idea what im doing, all my life and this is my first time on tumblr but bare with me..

--> but im a writer (and roleplayer for when i cant write by myself) and has recently hit MAJOR writers block and thought if i read other peoples work AND maybe have some people submit requests and prompts i could kick it away. so this is just to list all the things i write and who im able to write.

1. FANDOMS :

the fandoms im able to write in the most accurately goes as followed :

- supernatural

- stranger things

- marvel cinematic universe

- x-men (mainly the movies, my comic knowledge is sadly limited.

- merlin

2. CHARACTERS :

there is certain characters i can write from each fandom, some more than others.

- SUPERNATURAL : Dean Winchester, Sam Winchester, Castiel, Kevin Tran, Crowley, Rowena, Charlie.

- STRANGER THINGS : Steve Harrington, Eddie Munson, Robin Buckley, Jim Hopper, Nacy Wheeler, Jonathan Byers.

- MCU : Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, Natasha Romanoff, Matt Murdock, Clint Barton, Loki, Thor, Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield), Sam Wilson.

- X-MEN : charles xavier (young), erik lehnsherr (young), peter maximoff, alex summers, hank mccoy, raven darkholme, sean cassidy, logan howlett, scott summers, ororo munroe.

- MERLIN : arthur pendragon, morgana, gwen, merlin, gwaine, lancelot.

- OTHERS (other fandoms im in that arent major) : mike schmidt (fnaf movie), clapton davis (detention), sean anderson, angus macgyver (macgyver)

- i DO write more characters and im always into more but i cant list them all-- so im always opened to playing more characters.

3. THINGS I WRITE.

- SHIPS : some ships im into and write are sastiel, merthur, cherik, gwen/morgana, robin/nancy, sam/bucky, steddie. but im always opened to more ships!! practicslly any ship as long as they arent anything like incest, illegal, etc.

-> i will also write self inserts, y/n fics, and even ocs!! i just need the info to do so.

- TOPICS : i write about ANYTHING that you could think of, whether its a certain trope for characters, fluff, angst, even smut and certain things that pertain to that-- just ask!! i will tell if theres something i will not write.

-> and thats about it!! atleast thats everything i can think of!! thank you for reading!!

#supernatural #xmen #x men movies #x reader #oc x canon #stranger things #marvel mcu #fanfic #fandom #roleplay #writers on tumblr #writing #fnaf movie #macgyver #cherik #steddie #sastiel

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hopper-baby · 6 years ago

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Chapter 2/?: The Introduction of the Sinner

Wind scatters the gritty sand across the bay.

“Again..” Charlotte mumbles as she watches the waves crash into the crumbling sand. Usually she would be sitting in the sand, watching the waves, until she wakes up. This time, her dream is different.

The dream turns into a dark dream— that of a nightmare.

The waves curl up into the sky, and wood barks up the towers of foamy water into the form of towering trees.

She’s seen these familiar trees before, but they were taller. Like she’s actually inside the forest that lurks around in the back of her head like negative energy.

Her skin instantly breaks into a pasty, pale, and sweaty mess. The energy radiating from this area causes a swirling ball of anxiety grip her stomach and toss it around her rib cage.

This place was— no, is—a place where no living being should wander.

But, that’s what draws people in. The naïve and the weak allow that cold chain masked as false hope of adventure to drag them in with no room for resistance.

That same chain suddenly shoots out from an empty clearing a bit of ways away and clamps around her wrists and ankles. It pulls her to the ground. It begins to lurch her closer, and all she feels is the numbing shock of what could possibly happen. The horror of what could be pulling her— of what could possibly do what it did.

All the suspense regarding her questions is what led to her screaming, but no sound left her.

A black figure stood in the clearing once she was pulled through a bush, yet she couldn’t distinguish any feature about the figure due to the gooey fog raking through the clearing. The trees surrounding the circumference of the clearing were dead and rotten.

Decaying bark peeled down the trunks of the trees, the sound unexpectedly so ear-deafening, yet she couldn’t describe how it sounded. She was still in shock that she couldn’t even distinguish the sound herself. The only thing she could hear is the blood-curdling screams of terror ringing inside her head.

Due to the overwhelming suspense filling her chest, Charlotte’s vision began to fade to black and her body went limp.

Charlotte jolted from her laid position with sweat dripping down her neck. What she assumed as cabin walls, she gazed at the tapestries adorning them.

“Lucid dreaming,” a soothing voice caught Charlotte’s attention.

Charlotte looked around the dimly lit cabin, while fear filled her gut once more.

“There is no need for fear, young one, no need,” the voice returned.

“How did you know—“

“I’m not normal, I’m what your townspeople would call... a Sinner,” Charlotte finally found the owner of the voice— the soft, smooth voice. Her hair was bound at the back of head, her tight, chocolate curls had bounced out of its ponytail. Her eyes had found purchase in the mug she held to the table. Her body looked tense, like she was doing something that made her highly uncomfortable.

“What do you mean by that? What sins have you committed?” Charlotte’s eyes burned the back of the stranger’s head.

“You’ll see, when the time is right,” her voice held a tone that of finality about that certain topic. How did Charlotte catch that just in her voice and body language? It was more of a gut instinct.

“What am I doing here? How did I get here?” Charlotte asked as she pulled the quilt higher up her lap.

“You were dreaming. Lucid dreaming. But it wasn’t you who was in control of your dreaming plane. An evil. Some thing that is evil. It is digging its claws into the roots of this town, and corrupting it. Not that I care about the people or the town itself. It’s disposable. But in this instance it is not. After witnessing your “lucid dream”, I finally realized its intentions.

To answer your questions, you are here because I found you near my house, seizing up in what I believe was shock. You were shaking and you had foam pouring out of your mouth. Along with the foam, a black, thick goop oozed from out of the pores of your face. I’ve never seen anything like it. I was able to bring you out of your unfamiliar state of shock, luckily.”

During the woman’s explanation, Charlotte had took to staring at her lap. Everything she was saying weighted heavily upon her stomach, to the point where she had to run to the trash she noticed while looking around.

“Everything will make sense once I learn your significance,” the woman took a quiet, long sip from her drink while Charlotte bent back up, rubbing the side of her mouth.

“Who are you?”

The woman turned to look at Charlotte over her shoulder, and Charlotte admired her beauty, even though she was seeing her face at an awkward angle. Her eyes were a warm hazel, and her skin was warm as well. Everything about her and her home was warm and comforting. Charlotte could deduce her heritage being Hawaiian. Finally, she spoke.

“Clementine, I am Clementine.”

#jim hopper #jim hopper x reader #jim hopper fanfic #jim hopper self insert #jim hopper x reader angst #jim hopper angst #jim hopper fluff #jim hopper x reader fluff #fanfic #clementine #charlotte #scary #horror

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wastingtimewithfanfiction · 7 years ago

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Taking Fanfic Requests

I’d love to take requests for some reader inserts. I’m willing to write reader x Steve Harrington, Jonathan Byers, Hopper, Billy, Hannibal, Will Graham, Dean or Castiel. Please give me any ideas so that I can continue writing.

#taking requests #fanfiction requests #writing requests #steve harrington #steve harrington reader #steve harrington x reader #stranger things #stranger things 2 #billy hargrove #jim hopper #jonathan byers #nancy wheeler #reader insert #self insert #hannibal #hannibal lecter #will graham #dean winchester #castiel

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bfictioncorner · 3 years ago

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Pink Sweater (Hopper x OC/Reader)

(Omg I’ve forgotten how to write fic summaries.)

Pairing: Chief Hopper x OC (or reader if you wanna change the name and pretend)

Rating: PG-13/R

Warnings/content: erotic dancing, daddy kink (mild), grinding, over-the-clothes stuff...

Summary: Hopper meets a new dancer at a local joint but can’t place where he knows her from.

Author Note:

Okay finally posting this after sitting on it for like a year for a few different reasons... Sort of a self-insert/OC type of situation, inspired by boredom and downtime while actually working on set of the actual show (yes... I’m cringe like that; I did background work on Stranger Things and wrote this up.)

Enjoy?

Long nights on duty were disorienting, and definitely lonely. Despite knowing the next morning he would see the guys at the station, and the same waitresses at the diners and coffee shops, and, eventually, Joyce and one of the many children in her kids’ friend group, the late night patrols put Jim in a weird headspace. A very liminal headspace that reminded him a little too much of some of the weirder ongoings in the town.

It probably wasn’t a good look, but after nights like those, he would allow himself to sneak off to Gallyan’s. At least the name was somewhat discreet, and not something like “Peaches” or “Twin Spires”. Not that it mattered. He was the Chief of Police, and could get away with it. Or, the truth, he knew, was that people were aware of his less-than-professional behavior, and just let it slide. Who else was going to do his job? The law enforcement presence in Hawkins was small and bumbling, and hardly ever needed. The most he ever needed to do was break up fights outside bars, and even then he didn’t care to do that.

It was a Tuesday night at Gallyan’s (more like Wednesday morning at 2am). Jim hadn’t been there in a few months. He sat in his vehicle, just outside the cheap neon signage, debating on if he was even really feeling it. He needed something to get him out of his funk. Not coffee, not pills, not something that would make it worse. He wasn’t particularly in the mood, but it was worth a try.

“Okay…” he breathed out. He finished his cigarette hurriedly, and slammed the door behind him.

Walking into the place, he kept his hat tipped low, and his blue jacket on, just covering his badge. The doormen were still well aware it was him, mumbling a greeting and not even asking for an entry fee.

The further in he got, Jim finally, slowly, removed his hat, brow staying low with his glance cast down. He shouldn’t have felt weird or bad about being there, but he recognized a lot of sleazy faces he’d detained in the past, and it was just uncomfortable.

“Hi handsome, how are you tonight?” a gentle voice asked him, right as he sat at a far away table.

“Fine…” Jim trailed off as he looked the woman up and down. She was all of five feet tall (maybe some change with the heels, but still tiny), and dressed in a very subtle, pink lingerie set.

Something about her short stature and black bangs seemed familiar. Those features weren’t super defining, but they stood out enough and he couldn’t tell why…

“I’m Goldie,” the dancer said, closing the space between her and the chief’s lap.

“Oh, like Goldilocks. Is that because of your long, blonde locks?” Jim smiled sarcastically, eyes trailing over her black hair.

“Mmmhmm. Don’t have three bears, though… Just looking at one big one.” She bit her tongue in a cheeky smile, sliding down onto his lap fully.

Jim started fishing around for his wallet. As much as being called a “bear” surprisingly turned him on, he knew she was just trying to initiate a transaction. Fair enough.

“How much? $50? $100? I gotta say, I don’t think I’ve noticed you here before, but you’re probably one of the more expensive dancers, right?”

“I’ll take that, even though $50 is still a bit low…” She had to chuckle at him. “This one’s on me.”

“Nothing’s ever free, Goldie. What do you want? I had a long shift. Let me pay whatever you want upfront.”

Jim couldn’t understand why she was laughing again, or being sweet on him. Like genuinely sweet, and laughing as if she was shy about something.

“Listen, if you’re trying to offer some other services, maybe it’s best you don’t.” He clinked at his badge with his index finger.

“I’m not offering that,” Goldie sighed pointedly. “Let me give you this one on the house, and just join me out back for a drink after. My shifts get long and stressful too, you know. Sometimes I just want company.” There was that sweet little smirk again.

Goldie was talking to him like she knew him. He still couldn’t think if he’d known her from somewhere. But why him?

Most girls around the club had been dancing to a soundtrack of fast paced hair metal. It wasn’t terrible, but the energy was a bit much for that hour of the night/morning. However (maybe by Goldie’s subtle request), the next track eased into “Dance the Night Away”, a little more soft and mellow.

Goldie’s moves were refreshingly gentle and loving. In fact, she had a hard time not looking back at Jim with heavy lids and a flirtatious glance.

She sank against his broad, warm body, leaning against his chest and feeling his breath against her ear. He smelled smokey and like beer (even though he hadn’t had a drink yet). It was a fitting and weirdly endearing scent.

She placed his big hands firmly around her waist, allowing him to pull her over his crotch. The uniform fabric, from his thick thighs to the tightness below his belt, was so taut and inviting. Goldie couldn’t help but run her hands over those legs, lingering over the plush outer sides of his ass.

Jim used his firm grip to turn her to face him.

“Ah, ah,” she chastised, gleefully, “I’m giving the dance here.”

He replied with a small, shot down glance. She loved being so tiny compared to him and telling him what to do.

After a moment of some sways here and there, Goldie settled back onto the officer’s lap, squeezing her thighs around the width of his. She smoothed her little hands over his chest--his pecs straining slightly under his shirt. He was just so big all around.

“Don’t mind me…” She plucked open the top shirt button, and then the one after that. Seeing his chest hair peek out the top, she raked her pink fingernails through it.

Her hands continued roaming around, gripping his soft waist, then his shoulders, then giving in to the urge to smooth her fingers over his rugged beard. She just about purred at the feel of it. Jim took notice, and discreetly slid his hands over her backside, all while offering a playful grin.

“Keep it over the panties, Chief,” she murmured.

“Yes, ma’am.”

She liked that a lot.

The song kept going as she continued to grind rhythmically against his crotch. His tight pants had only gotten tighter, and his hardness started to rub friction in the right spot for her. But she couldn’t let that happen. Not tonight, or at least not at work.

She pressed his head to her chest, trying to ease off of the grinding slowly. Even his stubble felt delicious against her bosom. He breathed in how much she smelled like cherry candy and whiskey--an interesting combo, but one that fit her small, friendly demeanor.

The song faded out, and just like that, Poison was playing over the speakers, and Goldie was off his lap.

Jim was afraid that was it. Not only would he be left halfway pitching a tent, but he still didn’t know where he knew Goldie from.

Disappointed, he sank against his chair and lit a smoke.

“Come on…” A tiny touch accompanied the voice. Goldie now stood beside him with a bottle of Evan Williams. “I’m off duty and so are you, so let’s have that drink.”

The big chief followed the petite dancer down the back halls and out an emergency exit. The bouncers wouldn’t have usually allowed anyone clearance, but they recognized Jim all too well, and could see that Goldie was leading him around, like a puppy.

They emerged into the brisk early morning air. Goldie, now draped in a big leather jacket, looked so small and so much younger than she first looked in the dim lights.

She teasingly swiped the cigarette from Jim’s lips, smoking on it herself. “I gotta say, I’ve been hoping I’d get to see you here. It’s kinda weird.” She bundled herself against him for extra warmth, and he absent-mindedly wrapped an arm around her.

“Where have I seen you?” he smiled. In most other cities, if someone seemed familiar, it was just a coincidence or something. But Hawkins was small. People only had so many places to go, and so many people to run into.

“Do you remember doing Career Day a year and a half ago? At Hawkins High, for the seniors?”

He sort of did. Most days were hazy due to weird hours, liquor, and boredom.

“Guess you could say I didn’t take you up on the summer job… Or any of those jobs, haha.” She handed the stubby cigarette back to Jim.

That petite frame, the fluffy dark hair, the pink… It reminded Jim of a student who, after the Career Day presentations, awkwardly approached him. Super shy, and dressed very modestly in a pink sweater, pink tights, and a long blue church skirt.

The student, in question, bashfully asked if the station was hiring anyone to help with filing, or even cleaning and errand running. Jim told them to go speak to Flo if she wanted any help. But it didn’t seem to really matter. The girl kind of lingered, eyes looking him up and down while blushing.

“Sorry, had a crush on you,” Goldie blurted, a bit more bluntly than she meant.

The corner of Jim’s lip curled up. He leaned his hip and shoulder against the wall, while slightly craning down to look into her eyes. “I’m probably old enough to be your dad.”

A giddy chill ran down Goldie’s spine. “I’m still a grown woman. I know my tastes. My tastes are pretty mature.” She bit her lip, meeting his gaze. “Maybe I’m into the dad-type.”

She glanced at him with a touch more lust in her words.

“So you had a crush on me. Huh.”

“Didn’t say it went away…”

Jim’s eyes darted around for a moment, masking the fact that he was a bit flattered and flustered.

Goldie could see through, though, and handed him the bottle of bourbon.

“So… if you want… I can give you my number, and maybe—“

“You come see me here again,” Goldie responded with a wink. “For now.”

“Fair enough.” Jim smiled, and offered back the bottle.

#chief hopper fic #jim hopper fic #hopper fic #hopper x reader #hopper x oc #chief hopper smut #jim hopper x oc #chief hopper x oc

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could-it-be-a-dream · 3 years ago

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request guidelines

hello, and welcome! before you send in a request, i'd like to lay down some ground rules.

note: 🍓 indicates characters that i am particularly inclined to write at the moment!

first and foremost, the fandoms i will write for:

marvel (including x-men and daredevil)

stranger things

ghost (the band)

lord of the rings/the hobbit (excluding rings of power because i haven’t seen it)

horizon: zero dawn/forbidden west

it: chapter two

supernatural

detroit: become human

criminal minds

star wars

harry potter/fantastic beasts

(i would also like to mention that i am only on season 2 of daredevil and season 5 of supernatural, so please avoid sending requests with major spoilers!)

and the characters i will write for:

[marvel]

natasha romanoff

kate bishop

scott lang

matt murdock

frank castle

foggy nelson

charles xavier

hank mccoy

druig

makkari

thena

steven grant 🍓

marc spector

layla el-faouly

[ghost]

papa emeritus i (primo)

papa emeritus ii (secondo) 🍓

papa emeritus iii (terzo)

cardinal copia/papa emeritus iv 🍓

aether 🍓

rain🍓

dewdrop

mountain

cirrus

cumulus

swiss

[supernatural]

dean winchester

castiel 🍓

gabriel

[stranger things]

mike wheeler

eleven/jane hopper

max mayfield

dustin henderson

steve harrington 🍓

billy hargrove

eddie munson

chrissy cunningham 🍓

robin buckley 🍓

jonathan byers

peter ballard/henry creel

joyce byers

jim hopper 🍓

alexei “smirnoff”

[lord of the rings]

samwise gamgee 🍓

pippin took

merry brandybuck

legolas

aragorn 🍓

gimli 🍓

galadriel

elrond

[the hobbit]

bilbo baggins 🍓

thorin oakenshield

fili

kili

dwalin

bofur 🍓

thranduil

[horizon: zero dawn/forbidden west]

aloy

erend 🍓

avad

kotallo 🍓

[it: chapter two]

bill denbrough

eddie kaspbrak

beverly marsh

richie tozier

[detroit: become human]

connor (rk800)

markus (rk200)

hank anderson

gavin reed

[criminal minds]

aaron hotchner

spencer reid

emily prentiss

luke alvez 🍓

penelope garcia 🍓

matt simmons

tara lewis

[star wars]

luke skywalker

leia organa

obi wan kenobi

poe dameron 🍓

cassian andor

jyn erso 🍓

bodhi rook 🍓

din djarin 🍓

boba fett

fennec shand

[harry potter/fantastic beasts]

fred weasley

george weasley

hermione granger

neville longbottom 🍓

bill weasley 🍓

newt scamander

*please note that i do not write for ships, but i will gladly write reader-insert poly relationships.

**also, all characters under the age of 18 will be written in strictly platonic or familial relationships unless it is specified that they are aged up.

my hard “NO”s:

suicide/self harm

domestic violence/physical abuse

eating disorders

sa/non-con

omegaverse

hardcore bdsm/bondage

pedophilia/underage sex (see above note)

drug use

ddlg/age play

(the things listed above are off-limits either because they make me uncomfortable or because i don’t feel that i know enough about them to write them accurately.)

if there’s a specific topic/kink/character you have in mind and you’re not sure if i’ll write it, please feel free to ask! this is a judgement-free zone :))

thanks for your cooperation!

- spencer <3<3

#request guidelines #request rules #fandom list #character list #guidelines

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alexfryerproductions · 7 years ago

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My Top 10 Favourite films of 2017

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FILMS SELECTED ON THIS LIST ARE OF UK RELEASE DATES.

Since I won’t be able to see another new release before the end of the year, I thought it would be best to get my list of favourite films out of the way before I depart for France for the Christmas holidays with no internet connection to accompany me.

This year has seen quite a wide variety of memorable and outstanding films through blockbusters to independent works. While these films have entertained us, they have also provided quite thoughtful commentaries on the world we live in currently, whether it is on the treatment of women (Wonder Woman) or Trump’s America (The Florida Project) or the treatment of race (Get Out). Some well-known directors on this list have produced what could be their best works yet, to the point where they may have outdone themselves, while some rising directors have shown great development in their own craft.

Without further ado, let’s commence with the list. But before we get down to the top 10, here are some brief statements of honourable mentions and my most disappointing film of this year.

Honourable mentions

Thor Ragnarok (Directed by Taika Waititi)

Yet again, the Marvel Cinematic Film has delivered not only the best Thor film, but the best directed of this series. Having seen Hunt for the Wilderpeople from the same director, I was excited. Filled with style, colour, joy, eye popping visuals and hilarity from beginning to end, this is probably the most fun I’ve had in the cinema this year.

La La Land (Directed by Damien Chazelle)

Self confessedly, I am not a fan of musicals but given my love Chazelle’s Whiplash, I went to see what the huge fuss was about. Watching the film felt like staring at Edward Hopper paintings (which they are evidently inspired by) crossed with a stage play. On top of that, Chazelle inserts what he crafted from Whiplash while also incorporating techniques from other musicals to create a piece that’s a loving tribute to an otherwise forgotten genre.

My one dishonourable mention (or most disappointing film of this year)

Justice League (Directed by Zack Snyder/Joss Whedon)

Make no mistake, after seeing Wonder Woman, I really wanted to enjoy this film. Unfortunately though, this is just filled with an endless stream of problems. It is bland, dull, directionless and doesn’t even know what do with any of its characters. I would have put Alien Covenant here, but compared to this, that film had more ambitious film-making and desire to tell a story (even if it did fall short on the latter).

And now for my top 10...

10.) Star Wars: The Last Jedi (Directed by Rian Johnson)

While I did enjoy the previous recent instalments of the Star Wars series, this is the latest I was most surprised by. The film is full of twists and unpredictability, which, quite frankly, we have not seen since Empire Strikes Back nearly 40 years ago. With a compelling set of characters, nostalgia that is occasional and playful, a loving tribute to our princess (Carrie Fisher), plenty of new and weird elements never seen previously and a thought provoking narrative, Rian Johnson delivers a great Star Wars film that expands the vastness of the beloved universe and is not afraid to take risks along the way.

9.) A Ghost Story (Directed by David Lowery)

For those who have not seen the film, don’t let the title fool you, this is not your average ghost story (no pun intended) nor a frightening horror film in anyway. It is however in one word: beautiful. It has the visual melody of a Andrei Tarkovsky picture accompanied by the apocalyptic mood of a Godfrey Reggio film and the surrealism of David Lynch. Lowery composes moving images that all make for a poignant film. It is upsetting, strange and truly a bold piece of work. However one interprets this wondrous picture, the message delivered by the of end of this film is very powerful. Be warned: this film is not for the faint of hearts.

8.) Logan Lucky (Directed by Steven Soderbergh)

In a another piece of confession, I have not witnessed any of the works of Steven Soderbergh prior to this film. But having heard nothing but praise and being fascinated by his rise as director, I went in with great anticipation and boy did I have a great time. Truthfully, I haven’t laughed this much at a comedy in quite a while. Whether it is the hilarious delivery from actors, the tension at play during heist scenes or Soderbergh’s independent applications, Logan Lucky is a tremendously different and clever breed of a crime caper and practically the feel-good film of the year.

7.) Wonder Woman (Directed by Patty Jenkins)

Given my huge disappointment with how DC films were being handled, I was very apprehensive in seeing this. However, after the first half an hour, all I could do was just breath a huge sigh of relief because of Jenkins fantastic direction with this superhero outing. Is it formulaic? Like all superhero films, yes it is. But this has more heart, substance, style, great film-making and a thoughtful message above all else. The film reminded me of Richard Donner’s Superman films in their charm, tone, sense of fun and wonder and Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy in their maturity and grittiness. Wonder Woman is ultimately a sight to behold.

6.) Logan (Directed by James Mangold)

This is probably the film to signal the beginning of the end for the superhero genre itself. Even though I have enjoyed quite a few outings this year, I have been starting to feel a sense of fatigue for the genre, which will inevitably come to an end sometime, much like how the western did decades ago. The X-Men series had its highs and lows but has, nevertheless, persevered. Thanks to Mangold’s film-making and his blending of the western, science fiction and neo-noir and the gut-wrenching performances from both Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart, this is not only the best X-Men film but the best comic book film since The Dark Knight.

5.) War for the Planet of the Apes (Directed by Matt Reeves)

It’s very rare for a final film in a trilogy to accomplish a task that provides a worthy conclusion. Thankfully, War for the Planet of the Apes, proves to be one of those rare occasions. Matt Reeves constructs a piece that not only stands well on its own but also provides a spectacular end to the story of our main ape, Caesar, and does so in a emotionally satisfying manner. On top of that, Reeves expertly blends spectacle with, character, narrative, jaw-dropping visuals and emotion to provide a blockbuster that will be remembered in years to come.

4.) The Florida Project (Directed by Sean Baker)

While I have not seen Baker’s previous works, I was completely blown away by The Florida Project. It is impossible to determine how much of this film was improvised (like other independent works of the past) or how much of the film was written, which makes it all the more a fascinating watch. Taking cues from Jim Jarmusch, Vittorio De Sica and David Lynch, it mixes the harsh realist settings with the colourful visual tone of the story. This is independent film-making at its most visually gorgeous.

3.) Baby Driver (Directed by Edgar Wright)

Even though one actor in this cast has lost my respect given the recent horrifying scandal going on in Hollywood right now, it doesn’t take away my enjoyment and love for Baby Driver. Edgar Wright is at his best as he crafts a spectacular piece of guilty pleasure with truly masterful film-making. Wright directs a film, which is practically ridiculous for the right reasons. All that ridiculousness serves the edge-of-your-seat action, characters and narrative, which is why Baby Driver is one of the most creative action movies I have seen in recent memory.

2.) Blade Runner 2049 (Directed by Denis Villeneuve)

When I first heard that they were making a sequel to one of my favourite films of all time, I was terrified...but Villeneuve has done the impossible and has made a worthy sequel that may even be cinematically better than the original Blade Runner. At first, I was not sure how to digest it, but then the more I thought about it, the more I loved it. The film wastes no time with nostalgia (although there are a few tidbits here and there) and tells a story in a way that is visually gratifying, and answers questions left from the first film while also leaving some new ones. Villeneuve makes every image in the film matter as he transports us into this authentic, apocalyptic, yet beautiful world Ridley Scott envisioned.

1.) Dunkirk (Directed by Christopher Nolan)

Truthfully, I am a huge suck-up when it comes Christopher Nolan. Nevertheless, (having seen it on 70mm IMAX) I just wasn’t prepared for the cinematic experience of Dunkirk through its grand-scale film-making. This was the most intense experience I have ever had in a cinema given its manipulation of both sound and images (thus giving it a feeling of virtual reality).This is the film where Nolan shows his true mastery in the art of film-making, whether it is through the script, genre-bending narrative, editing, practical effects, sound, score and so on. Nolan channels the ambition of David Lean, the precision of Steven Spielberg, the suspense of Alfred Hitchcock, and the craftsmanship of Stanley Kubrick. Dunkirk is a breathtaking masterpiece that is not to be missed.

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exilynn · 1 month ago

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title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Modern Eddie X OC)

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Good reading! 🫦♥️

5. Amnesia

Eddie Munson

I pause the conversation and look around. It’s boring seeing zombies follow the same path every day. Life, sometimes, feels like a rollercoaster of boredom.

But I’m distracted, caught up in the energy of the redhead, involved in the chord she sang for me— a sound that, somehow, heals wounds that have burned for years.

Being with Lily is like putting menthol on an open wound—it stings, but it helps it heal.

I’ve never been a fan of signs, but what if she feels the same? If her heart races and her voice falters like a scratched record, why not let this hellish fire burn?

The eyes don’t lie. Friends can be masters of the art of lying, but the gaze and the heart don’t fall for that temptation when faced with the face of love.

And what if this thing between us has a ‘fingerprint’ from past lives?

Is Hansol the answer to everything that’s happening to me?

Like a good dungeon master, I know life is a game—you roll a twenty-sided die and hope for a high number.

What if it’s time to give in? May Gandalf send me a sign with his wise wizard magic.

I thought I’d never find answers, but Lily, with her lovely view of life, tears down the walls of my dogmas.

She commands the beats of my heart. She controls me like a puppet master.

How does she manage to see the worst in me and still stay?

I don’t know if I know what love is, but maybe it’s like walking into a pet shop and petting the dogs while they lick your face, wagging their tails, happy.

I can’t shake the feeling that there’s something between me and Linda. — something that’s growing, taking shape, like souls surrendering to each other.

Even when words lie, the eyes speak the most genuine truth.

And every time hers meet mine, those of a mammal of the Chiroptera order, my heart beats faster than it should.

Hilarious... I never thought I’d be good at opening up to emotions.

But here I am, lost in the valley of emotion, contemplating giving love a chance since this Galadriel showed up.

She has no idea what she’s doing to my soul. Or maybe she does, but pretends not to.

I hate school romance and prom dances, but there are things I’ve given up on postponing. If I don’t act, a raven will steal her—Jason or Steve...

Letting Carver or Harrington win? Not a chance.

It’s not about possession. Linda isn’t mine. When I call her that in my thoughts, it’s not in that sense. Though I wish she liked me, I would curse myself if I hurt her honor or her heart.

Besides, I don’t even know if I’m worthy of someone loving the darkness in me...

Something changed since that afternoon in the clearing. Considering Linda and I have a bond strong enough to seem like fate, like Arwen and Aragorn...

There’s no logical or spiritual explanation for what she did to me. She came in and adorably messed up my dark paths.

I still want to tell her, if I get the chance: “You came that shitty afternoon and returned my soul, which was sold to the darkness.”

I’ve accepted bargaining for love my whole life.

Maybe Linda is also fighting her own fears. I know well what it’s like to face fierce dragons.

My father’s notorious family sees me as a soul-less delinquent, heartless, with no future in music. If nothing works out, I’ll try out for porn.

The Munson side I bought has falseness in its veins, but they say if I follow my dreams in rock, I’ll fail and end up a drug addict.

But what if it’s possible to build a solid career? Even if they underestimate me?

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that it’s not worth wishing to die prematurely like Kayne... or Kurt Cobain.

I learned to play guitar and drums when I was a kid, using Uncle Wayne’s jars as musical arsenal.

The dream of being a rock star seems as distant as a lone star in the sky.

My first musical experience was listening to "Strange World" by Iron Maiden on a Sunday morning, on Wayne’s transistor radio.

Since then, Maiden became a titanic influence. I know everything about rock and metal bands, but my heart belongs to heavy metal.

Speaking of approaches worse than a Lich, there was someone who came to take advantage. She made me believe I had found the love of my life...

Lana Wink.

She didn’t have a simple disorder. It was a trace of psychopathy.

Her mother sent me emails and messages, warning me to leave Howling, because she knew what her daughter would do “for love.”

Lana was possessive, compulsive.

What did I hate most? She despised my style. When I bought band t-shirts, she’d throw them away or lie to the delivery man that the order had been canceled.

That wasn’t love. Love isn’t in the eyes of the beholder, but in the heart of the one who feels.

With Lily, even though our relationship is just friendship, she always knows what to say. And that comforts me while I deal with my complicated way of being.

But Linda... Linda is a mystery I still need to unravel. And it doesn’t matter if her secrets are dark. — after all, we all carry our own darkness.

Life is like a D&D battle, made of internal struggles. In the end, only those who survive understand the value of victory.

---

My father was a vandal, paid his debt by spending years in a penitentiary east of Howling.

Life gives you a damn deadline, at the mercy of your own fetish for sinning.

Later, Ale enrolled in Stanford, where he met my mother, Elisabeth Jane Le'Blanc.

A brunette passionate about metal, but whose heart beat faster for rock and guitarists like Jimmy Page, Chuck Berry, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour...

Their romance began in an unusual way. Eli and Alanfiero were rivals before becoming passionate allies.

Outside the Hellfire Club, I’m just someone who hides in the shadows of the chains that bind him.

Expressing what I feel? Complicated.

Opening up to strangers? It’s like shooting myself in the foot. Giving people access to your fears, courage, and secrets? One day, all that weakness will come back to destroy you.

Does the girl like me for who I am and not the stories they make up? Is this really happening? What did Lily see in me?

I break the walls of silence.

— Your intelligence blows me away. Can’t you lend me a little of that intellect, Hansol?

It’s canonical. A thousand times I’d rather fall for the substance of intellect than focus on outer beauty.

— I’ve seen our talks are crazy, but I confess, I love how we talk. And you’re not so different from my essence...

The confession makes me smile with my eyes.

— I’m not a maniac who would break into a women’s bathroom and... — At that moment, I hand my head on a platter.

— GOTCHA, EDDIE! WERE YOU THE MANIAC WHO INVADED THE WOMEN’S BATHROOM?!

Even being a master of stalling, I can’t lie for long. Not with Lily’s fawn-like eyes judging me.

— In self-defense! I needed to empty the damn bladder before it exploded like a missile!

She makes a face, genuinely disgusted.

— I’m not mad because you explained some anomaly of your urinary tract! — She raises her hands in defense.

— Tell me, redhead, do you see me as an amoeba or something?

— No, the amoebas would be offended. — She laughs. — You’re the only person who annoys me to the extreme, but I confess... I enjoy being annoyed by a Munson.

— If you want to know more about what this freak from Howling hides, welcome to the club.

— No, you’re not what the town says. You’re smart, you’re tough. I wish I could be like you.

— Now you crossed the line, huh? What’s next, are you going to start talking about astrophysics? Is that how you say it?

— The most I learned in school was the French Revolution and some geography stuff!

She says it, and I want to kiss her. Simply because she’s the nerd I’d marry and plan an elvish wedding with.

And if she gave me a chance?

If Lily wanted to be with me, I’d be shouting through the streets of Howling, climbing billboards guided by the voice of happiness.

But something tells me this girl hides what she’s afraid to reveal. Maybe something as strong as the thunder of this freak.

— Would you be with a rocker? Like... me? Like, grr... — I make an animalistic noise and immediately regret it.

She lets out a laugh, adjusting a strand of hair that falls over her honey-colored eyes.

— GR! — Lily imitates the sound, laughing.

What kind of neural connection is this?

Minutes pass, and she’s on the verge of an attack—fortunately, one of laughter.

— What games do you like, Hansol? — Curiosity pokes me.

— Some you don’t even know exist.

— Is it worth trying my luck? I know... RPG with battles?

— Worse than that. I’d rather leave you curious until your mind rots.

— Do you lie about knowing nerdy things? — My tone is indignant. — Lily, what else is on your hate list?

— Never said I hated high fantasy. If you want to know, I hate things you would be capable of not judging...

— If you hate the people who started the Vietnam War and Nazis equally, that’s fine. But not liking high fantasy? That’s crazy, Hansol!

— Who said I don’t like RPG? And what do I hate? Strong smells, Nazis, and... peas. And if you judge me for the vegetable, I’ll ditch you!

I sigh, laughing, and can’t help but notice her licking her lips.

— I don’t like peas either. What worries me is enduring my curiosity about you...

— Sometimes you say random stuff, but I love it. It’s sexy...

— It’s kind of hard not to think dirty with you... — I can barely articulate the words, feeling her thigh brush against mine.

She smiles.

The redhead reminds me of cool mornings, the smell of wet earth, rainy days perfect for sleeping until the world ends.

— Did you know Wayne had a bunch of adult films he kept hidden? The old man wanted to preserve my innocence.

— That explains the fire in the ass for nerd girls!

Little does she know, something terrible happened when I watched those films.

Wayne took me to the doctor and discovered penile atrophy. I don’t blame the old man, necessary discoveries.

What was it? Teenagers need to satisfy themselves frequently.

The conversation after the appointment involved laughs, me with my hand in the middle of my legs, reflecting on the diagnosis. Normal.

It wasn’t pleasant when Wayne forbade me from getting Playboy magazines or porn cassettes.

But that story is for another time.

---

— Today, I don't see any problem with maturing down there earlier... it's a rite of passage for every boy.

— Crazy to know I'm older than you...

How so? She's so small.

— How old are you?

She’s trying to catch me off guard, I know it.

— Sixteen... eighty-six? — I guess just to see where this goes.

— Older than my grandma? — She raises an eyebrow. — Aren’t you twenty?

— Before I get screwed over, call me old... I’m nineteen, Lily!

— Cool, I’m a spring older than you. But don’t tell anyone, okay?

— Twenty? Wait, how many times have you repeated a grade?

— Confidential information. — The redhead looks around before facing me again.

— Does asking offend you? — I press my lips together, trying to hold back the laugh.

— No. You could even ask the color of my panties, and I’d tell you.

My head spins.

— I’ve already said I have a lot of panties at home... — I blurt out without thinking.

— Admit it, Eddie... Are they from girls who slept with you and forgot them there?

— I don’t have that kind of reputation, Hansol.

— Then why would you have panties and bras? Do you wear them?

I let out a laugh.

— Is that what you imagined? Well, if Ozzy wore lingerie, why wouldn’t I?

Her eyes widen.

— He did that?

— I don’t wear panties, but if you want, buy me an edible one. — I wink, smiling.

— Oh, they exist. But it must be pretty anticlimactic...

The redhead tries to grab my hand, but a waiter appears with drinks. She grabs his pants without hesitation.

The guy is startled and tilts the tray our way.

— What’s the flavor, sir?

— This blue one? Tutti-frutti cocktail... Tastes like childhood. — He smiles.

— Strangely, the smell reminds me of someone... and her birthday night.

— Do you still keep that person in your heart? — Her voice sounds softer now.

— We create memories to write in a diary...

— What’s your philosophy on life, Eddie? — Her question catches me off guard, changing direction suddenly.

I think for a bit.

— Life is full of holes, but you can either jump over the stones in the way or risk getting to the other side of the mountain.

— And what do you know about love, Eddie Munson?

— That fate is a damn Lich.

She furrows her brow, intrigued.

— Great point, but what if life is more than creatures lurking?

— It is... But if you focus on the idea that you’ll wither tomorrow, what lives in today? — I throw the reflection on the table.

— Nietzsche said in Human, All Too Human: "The Stoics claim that if you suffer, it’s your own fault; I say that if you suffer, it’s their fault."

— In my ignorant opinion, no one suffers because they want to. Look at it however you want, but betrayals of all kinds exist.

Lily gets thoughtful.

— Some people leave when they see their darkness, when you strip your soul to them...

— Poetic... — I reflect, distant.

— Life has its sad poetry.

— But some see their dragons and stay. Never thought about that?

She sighs.

— Maybe, but no one loves you if you're not beautiful. Whether in soul or face. I’m a little afraid of aging...

If allowed, I’d love Lily from the pinky to when the wrinkles show up.

— Love isn’t just about what you think is best in someone. It’s about how they laugh at jokes, how they inspire a song...

— Ah, so love, to you, is a composition?

— Love is what keeps you steady, what stops you from falling apart. It’s not religion, nor a closed concept. Everyone sees it based on what they learned from a young age. Get it?

— I get it... Even if I’ve never talked to that feeling before, or had coffee with it. But... what’s worse, falling for a human or a dwarf?

— Isn’t a dwarf a human with powers?

She’s not as slow as she says.

— I’m terrible with complex explanations. It gives me a headache.

— Eddie, you don’t need to be a genius in cosmology. Just be the Eddie I met in school.

Her request ignites something in me.

— You don’t belong in a world so hypocritical and full of rules. You’re beautiful like a Maiden song...

— Big compliment, huh? — A smile spreads across her cheeks. — I feel like something changed since I saw you, Eddie...

Is this a confession?!

— What? — My heart races.

She looks into my eyes, then lowers her gaze to my hands.

— Do my rings hypnotize you?

— No, I just think they’re pretty. Do people buy them for meaning or just for elegance?

— In my case, I buy them at thrift stores because they’re cheap and always have some cool ones.

— You said a lot but explained little.

— There’s no right way to wear them. You just buy them and wear them.

I move my fingers, showing the mood ring.

— These rings remind me of a movie... How do they work?

I love her curious side.

— Blue, creative. Green, happy. Pink, adorable. Purple, very happy. Light blue, relaxed. Blue-green, confused. Orange, nervous. White, cozy. Red, stressed.

— Ah, like when rings turn black on your finger because the person is nervous?

— Not exactly. Some people buy them as a lucky charm, not just for style.

---

The silence between us stretches until Lily breaks it. She brings the cocktail glass to her lips and nearly empties it in one go, which worries me.

— Eddie, is there any magic that banishes evil people? — The question sounds innocent but carries a latent resentment.

— If you were a tiefling, you could cast an arcane spell and make everyone on the planet disappear.

She laughs lightly and taps my arm.

— You love everything you imagine... It’s an adored adoration!

— "Adored adoration"? That sounds quite poetic for a master of imagination. Can I borrow it? — My tone slips into a subtle flirt.

— Yes... But in the end, there’s always a wall between imagining and achieving. Even hearts can get trapped behind emotional walls...

I hope the only place Lily leads me to is the walls of her elven heart.

— I was thinking... Are you a poet, Eddie? — She looks at me with a gaze that warms me.

— Call it a less fancy version of a poet, elf.

— And... are you happy? — She rests her chin in her hands, curious.

— I live what life gives me. If it gives me oranges, I’ll squeeze them until they turn into lemonade...

— So you hate this thing about conformism and know-it-alls?

She gets me. Here’s the question: the woman of my life or for my life?

In my imagination, it seems adorable... Her in armor and wielding a magic sword, kicking the butt of a Lich or Tiamat.

— We’re alike in this — I say, amused. — But what about indirect flirting? Does it bother you?

I made sure to ask. There’s nothing more annoying than a guy forcing it when the girl isn’t interested.

— If we don’t accept flirting, we end up like cavemen with no emotional life. Let’s kill romanticism!

She makes a point. And that grabs my attention in a different way. It’s not just desire.

— You have an interesting view, redhead... You almost sound like a female Gandalf.

I expect an “oh, thank you,” but she raises an eyebrow.

— Do I look like the gray wizard?

My brow furrows. Does she also like The Lord of the Rings?

— I like his executioner side...

— What I like most about that character is how he protected the dwarves from the trolls.

— Leader’s blood, huh? — When I ask, I get lost in her eyes.

A waiter approaches, interrupting our conversation. Lily smiles when she sees him.

— Hey...

— Is she drunk? — The waiter asks, alarmed.

— It depends on the point of view. Lily was born drunk. — I joke, trying to lighten the mood.

Suddenly, the redhead pulls the guy’s pants, which fall down to his knees.

— SIR, SORRY! — She panics, wanting to disappear under the table.

The waiter throws the tray of drinks at us and runs to the bathroom, red as a tomato.

— HANSOL!

I look in disbelief at the most absurd and hilarious scene I’ve ever seen in the VIP area.

— Eddie, if you laugh, I’ll cut off the production of your future hairy babies.

— I wasn’t going to laugh, Hansol... But that guy is definitely going to quit after being stripped by you!

The laugh escapes before I can hold it back. Lily looks away toward the drinks, and I cut off the fun before she has any ideas.

— Don’t even think about it. You want to fall into an alcoholic coma?

— Don’t scold me. You’re not even mine!

— Not a dad, not a brother. Just someone who cares about you, redhead.

— Why? — She makes a face. — Are you going to kidnap me and sell my organs?

— I don’t deal with that kind of illegal thing... — I pause, realizing. — Okay, selling drugs maybe, but organs, no!

— You saying that doesn’t prove anything.

— You know me better than anyone, Lily.

She huffs, crossing her arms, maybe remembering her father’s stories about the dangers of the night.

— Sorry if I was annoying. You have a kind heart, and I’m acting like a rebellious teenager...

— I’m your friend, Lily. I’d jump off a bridge to save you.

— You already said something like that when you took care of my knee.

— Was I going to let you bleed out? I take care of my sheep.

The silence settles until she murmurs, almost without thinking:

— How cute, Chewbby.

My fingers stop tapping on the table.

For a second, it’s like Quinn is right there, calling me the way she did when we were kids.

“Chewbby! What are we going to play today?”

— What? — My voice comes out quieter than it should.

Her gaze lights up in regret.

— You look like Chewbacca. And... I like nicknames.

She closes her eyes, realizing the connection she triggered, while a strange weight settles in my chest.

— Don’t apologize. — I try to ease the tension, even though I’m not sure why.

— Eddie... do you still like that friend?

My head screams that it’s impossible. But something inside me hesitates to answer.

— How could I not? I’m no longer a virgin mouth thanks to her...

She watches me, intrigued.

— I’d love to hear the details of that childhood kiss.

— Wow, you’re curious, huh?

— It’s an evil that came with me. People’s stories always inspire me.

---

Lily listened to my confession about Quinn attentively, her eyes shining with curiosity. She seemed intrigued by the story, especially when I described the kiss—starting sweet and ending soft like cotton candy.

— The only certainty I have is that Quinn will always be the music that makes my heart beat faster...

I change the subject.

— The kiss is something private. I won’t tell you any more. But... do you want a drink?

I point to the bar near the ice rink, but she laughs and corrects me:

— Soda?

I nod, and she keeps laughing.

— Not the sodapop! — She references something only she understands. — What will you have, rocker?

— You’re clumsy, but cute. I have no idea what to drink...

— Oh, really, Munson? Clumsy is your mom! — She protests, pouting cutely before sashaying to the bar.

She returns balancing the sodas in one hand, the redhead almost tripping along the way.

— Your soda. I got juice because my stomach’s not doing too well...

— Get well soon. Hm, Hansol, is this poison? — I shake the package, teasing.

She looks at me perplexed.

— Did you know you’re unbearable, annoying rocker?!

— Ouch. You’ve already fallen out of love with me?

I watch her lips, the gloss making the tempting red even more noticeable. But I quickly look away to check my phone, refreshing the notifications every five minutes.

— What’s so interesting, Eddie? Girlfriend? — She teases.

— Seems more interesting than this prom. My sister brought me, I just want to know if she’s okay...

— She brought you? — She sucks the straw, staring at me.

— We came in her old car. That clunker. And she still has the audacity to say my van is a wreck.

Lily falls silent.

— But, hey, this isn’t poison, right? — I pout.

Lily grabs my soda and drinks it without hesitation. She lets out a satisfied sound.

— I drank the poison. Anything else, Mr. Munson?

— You weren’t supposed to drink my soda, girl! — I protest, holding back a laugh.

She admits it was impulsive, but then suddenly pales. And before I can react, she collapses.

I wish I didn’t have to piece this puzzle together, but Carver appears behind her, laughing as if he were watching the best disaster.

I lift Lily off the ground, holding her firmly in my arms. Carefully, I take off my Kas cloak and place it over her shoulders so she doesn’t get sick. Colds are hellish.

I call a waiter and ask for water and something rich in protein. The guy stumbles back with a fruit juice and some random plate.

— Lily? — I call, trying to make her react.

— What? — She wakes up, her eyes wide.

She struggles and sits on a bench.

— Hm... I took care of you when you were drunk... — I sit next to her.

— What? Why?

She notices my fingers touching her hair and pulls away in a startled reflex.

— You don’t remember falling, damn it? — I stare into her honey-colored eyes.

She blinks, trying to regain her senses.

— Oh... sorry, I don’t remember...

— Okay. I asked for water, but all they had was fruit juice. And it’s good to eat something to cut the alcohol’s effect...

I hand her the juice and a plate with chicken.

— Can you make this weird mix? — she asks, suspicious.

— I don’t know. If you want to respect the meal interval, go ahead.

She doesn’t argue, drinks the juice, and eats a piece of the lean meat. Then she looks at me, as if seeking answers for everything that happened that night.

— Eddie... how did I pass out?

— Don’t remember anything?

— If I’m asking, it’s because I have no idea, Eddie!

— I think you were used as bait. Someone wants to ruin my night with you...

— Who? What?

She looks at me, demanding an answer.

I think before speaking. I know about her feelings for Jason, that "popped condom" of a guy. I could lie, accuse anyone, but I prefer to be honest.

— Can you be honest with me, Eddie? — she asks, nervous.

— I will. — I huff. — I’ve had an enemy since childhood. Jason Carver.

— You and Jason? But what if you tried to be friends again?

— Not at all. The idiot burned down the old Hellfire Club location.

— Maybe one day you’ll resolve that rivalry.

— I don’t like anything about him, and he can’t stand that I’m sarcastic. So, we’re even.

Lily reflects.

— If Jason drugged me to ruin the prom night, don’t worry. The damage always returns to the one who throws it.

Damn. That Carver is interested in my girl...

— That idiot never knows when to stop... but he’ll get what he deserves... — I pretend I’m not jealous.

---

The DJ announces that the band scheduled to play at the prom canceled at the last minute and they’re looking for someone to play a rock or metal hit.

Linda, of course, pushes me toward the stage.

— EDDIE, DO YOU PLAY GUITAR? — she shouts excitedly, her voice cutting through the chatter of the crowd.

— Hey, but... — I try to protest, but she doesn’t let me finish.

She shoves me away from the chair, pushing my back.

— GET UP THERE AND SING SOMETHING!

— No way, I prefer social distancing!

She ignores me. Grabbing my collar, she stares at me with that look that’s impossible to argue with.

— FORGET ABOUT THE OTHERS, SAVE OUR GRAD NIGHT!

I take a deep breath and kiss my "lucky charm" — my pick. Maybe it’s not such a bad idea. After all, the last time I played guitar, Corroded Coffin took second place in the Howling battle of the bands.

— This is crazy... — My gaze meets Lily’s honey-colored eyes.

— Are you going to chicken out? Where’s the rockstar in you, Munson?

Damn. Linda’s never been more right.

— They said it would be rock, not metal!

— So what? Can’t you play either one? Or both?

I step on my fear like it’s a bug — aka Jason.

— I never get nervous. Okay, I have, but not like this...

— What can I do to help? — she asks, looking into my eyes.

Before I can answer, she solves it her way. She grabs me and kisses me. Just like that. No warning. But before I can react, Lily pulls away and taps my head.

— Go on, outlaw. Show Carver who’s in charge.

I get on stage as the lights intensify and the voices in the crowd turn into a distant murmur.

The DJ greets me.

— What are you playing, rocker boy?

I scratch my neck, a little shy.

— Still Life, by Iron Maiden? I want to dedicate this song to a girl in the audience...

But then I change my mind.

— No, wait. I feel like playing Mississippi Queen.

— GO FOR IT, BOY! — the sound technician cheers.

I grab the mic.

— Guys, I want to hear some noise!

— THAT’S IT, MUNSON! YOU’RE ROCK N' ROLL! — someone yells.

I take a deep breath, grip the guitar, and stare at the audience. My eyes meet Carver’s, who’s probably mentally assassinating me. But I also see something else...

Steve Harrington.

Near Lily.

My jaw locks.

From the stage, I can hear their conversation.

— Lily, are you dating Munson? — Steve asks, curious.

— No. Eddie and I are like oil and water. But I bet he’s going to rock that guitar.

He tries to touch her arm.

— You look beautiful. What did you dress up as?

— Lily, from the Monsters series...

— The show? And why did you pull away from me? Don’t you like the popular kids anymore?

— Of course not. They’re horrible to others. And you pulled away when you started playing basketball.

— Me? You disappeared when I asked you out.

— Oh, Steve. It was weird. It’s the same with Eddie and me... Can you imagine if we were dating?

She laughs. He smiles sideways.

— I’ll forgive you if you promise to go out with me. No date, just something casual between friends.

— I’ll think about it. But I can’t promise I’ll accept.

My blood boils. Before he can try anything else, I grab the mic and announce:

— Hey, redhead. This one’s for you!

Lily looks at me surprised. Steve steps back as a brunette approaches him.

I hold the guitar. It’s time to play. And make it clear who’s in charge.

Under the fading twilight, amid the faded colors of the night sky, I face the school, my fingers sliding across the guitar strings.

With a powerful yet delicate chord, I start playing Mississippi Queen, the 1970 classic from Mountain — the kind of song parents show their kids, saying it was part of their majestic youth.

The first notes echo down the hallway, bouncing off the walls. The initial apprehension fades, replaced by a growing confidence with each chord. I let myself sink into the rhythm, my fingers flowing across the frets. The crowd falls silent, captivated by the performance.

My eyes find Lily’s, and her smile lights up my American rockstar dream.

The melody takes on a life of its own. The song builds, reaches its climax, and I lose myself in the performance. Lily enjoys herself, immersed in each note, her hands forming a cloud of imaginary smoke. The redhead gives me the energy to keep going, casting silent looks that almost scream:

"You should kiss me after this show!"

Each note now exudes the essence of rock 'n' roll passion. The melody fills the air, uniting everyone in the hall. When the final notes float away, a round of applause slices through my insecurity.

I step off the stage to applause. Lily sees me, pulls me into a tight embrace. Our mouths almost touch.

I release her hand, and we head to the table. The redhead insists:

— That was awesome! Did you learn to play? Your voice and guitar give me butterflies in my stomach!

She looks at me with a sparkle in her eyes, unsure whether to stare at my face or my fingers. It’s amazing to see her seduced by the music.

— It’s all about practice, baby. I studied the masters and perfected my own style.

— How did we not cross paths before at Howling High?

— As far as I know, rabbits cross paths... And they’re champions at procreating...

Lily raises an eyebrow.

— Reproduction?

— Yeah... I’m sure you’re boiling after that insane performance. Aren’t you?

— I traveled through dimensions I never imagined reaching...

— You trusted I’d crush it on stage? — I graze my fingers on her arm.

— My only fear was Jason ruining everything with some sleazy joke.

— Carver? It was Harrington who couldn’t stop staring at you. Didn’t you see?

— Oh, are you like a bat that picks up high-frequency sounds?

— I’m not a bat, Lily. But the way Steve looked at you wasn’t how a friend looks at a friend.

— Relax. From me, he’ll only get sisterly love... You’re my guy. The one Howling will be a fan of one day!

— Okay, stop sweet-talking me, but my talent needs recognition from someone who works with music.

— No dream is impossible when you’re dedicated. You have to fly toward what makes you dream. Screw the others!

— Lily, you don’t have to try to fit in. Trust me, you have an effect on people. Now, you’re making me dream...

She stays silent, absorbing my words.

— I cause an effect like... drugs?

— Mango Haze.

She looks at me, lost.

I gather the information from her eyes and invite her to dance. No romantic ball, something more visceral, like old rock 'n' roll.

— Maybe in the future, Eddie, you’ll tell me you sent a demo to a label? You never get anywhere without taking risks!

— I’m good... — I decline, smiling. — Now, shall we dance?

— Alright, rocker! — She rolls her eyes but grabs my fingers, pulling me to the dance floor.

The hall pulses with an energy tied to romance. Our gazes meet, and when Lily looks away, I hold her chin, bringing her back to me.

— Damn... You’re as beautiful as a song that sticks in your mind...

She doesn’t respond, but her smile already says “thank you.”

— I see a thousand suns in you. The energy of the sun... and I’m the moon.

For the first time, I don’t pull away when someone mentions astrology.

— Here you go with that sign stuff... But you know what? I liked the way you said it.

I lean in, pressing my mouth to her ear in a whisper. Lily shivers at the base. We dance to Rob Zombie’s "Foxy Foxy." A different moment with her, the world disappears. With her head resting on my shoulder, I long for her lips.

As we move, we are one. The sun and the moon. Immersed in the madness of the music and the love that surrounds our prom night.

But why, out of all the girls at Howling High—only one crossed my path and didn’t run away from Eddie, the freak?

---

Dancing with Lily creates an intimate energy that scares me. For the first time, I let go on the dance floor, forgetting the fear of judgment. But when the DJ changes the song, we decide to leave.

Before I can react, Lily trips, almost falling. I catch her in my arms, our breaths colliding.

— Are you okay? — I ask, overwhelmed by a strange desire to hold her forever.

Our eyes meet in a personal and intense moment.

— Chewbby... — she murmurs, deliberately throwing herself against me.

A strange force stirs here, awakening memories I’d rather forget. Something inside me recoils.

— Linda, let me go! — I shout, pushing her harder than I should.

The anger disappears the next moment, leaving only guilt.

— Get out of the way, idiot! — she snaps, pulling away, hurt.

Even trembling, she tries to understand my reaction. I stand still, confused, but my heart screams louder than reason. I run after her.

I catch up to her in the middle of the hall and, breathless, beg:

— Hey... I’m not normally like this. But when you call me like that... Damn. It’s not your fault. It’s just... — I swallow hard. — It’s an internal wound.

She looks down, shaking her head.

— I should’ve known you’re just like the other guys, Eddie.

— I’m not like them! — I point to Jason and his group. — I know I’m arrogant and annoying, but... are we still friends?

Her gaze carries an understanding I don’t deserve.

This is strange for me, the rocker dedicated to guitars and deafening metal. But does she accept me, even with my darkest flaws?

My heart beats hard, like the roar of an out-of-control engine.

Deep down, I know there’s something special between us. Something that banishes any animosity.

And if she wants to be by my side on this melodic journey... this is where I want to stay.

7 notes · View notes

exilynn · 1 month ago

Text

title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Modern Eddie x OC)

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

— Note; Some chapters will always vary in the amount of words, I simply get inspired by something, almost stoned from writing so much, hehe

Good reading! 🫦♥️

3. Starry Eyes

Eddie Munson

Whenever I see Lily, I see the best of myself. There's a "good" dragon inside me, just waiting for the healing of love.

The sound of Jane knocking on the door pulls me out of reality. She must be worried if I'm "doing my thing" looking at pictures of naked women.

— I'll be right there! — I take a deep breath, trying to shake off the sleepiness.

After this crazy season, I've declared myself a skeptic when it comes to love. I've never understood this damn idea of past lives. Just another thing that doesn't make sense in my life.

Navigating through the shadows of adolescence, the nightmares continue. To sleep, I either fall into boredom or get hit on the head. And now, to make it worse, I dream of a woman in black chasing me with animal eyes.

Waking up from this nightmare, I see Jane walking into the room. I pretend I'm asleep, but she, sharp as always, pulls the blanket off me and turns on the Gandalf lamp. The light burns my eyes.

— Get up, bat. Time's up, Edward Munson! — She leans in, amused.

— Come on, Jane? — I try to push her away, but she's stubborn.

She watches me carefully and furrows her brow.

— Is that... blood in your mouth? Did you get into a fight at school?

— No... — I reply dismissively.

— There's something there! You were born from this sacred womb, Eddie Munson. Come on, speak up. — She insists, full of concern.

I sigh, letting the heavy vibe pass before opening up.

— I miss Quinn. As much as a heartbeat needs a heart... — My voice cracks. I look away.

— Quinn was special. Holding on to memories doesn't hurt, but you need to know when to move on.

— What debt do I have to pay? — Frustration slips into my voice.

— Son, there's no debt in psychology. Everyone handles their own stuff.

— Can you speak my language? — I sigh, exhausted.

— You don’t have to be the master of emotions. Respect the things that make sense!

— I think I'm a burden... Tell me, go ahead.

— You're a beast at everything you touch, kid. — She gives me a gentle shove on the shoulder.

— Strength isn't a merit of pride. I'm a pariah that Howling hates.

— Stars are made of dust and gases. A star doesn't live on its shine alone.

— Sure, they're dead.

— You have a good heart, Eddie. Don’t let your empire fall into the hands of another warrior. Be a gladiator! — She grabs my hands, her gaze firm, trying to give me courage.

— My heart was made of darkness, screams, and blood. — I joke, forcing a smile.

— You can be cold as much as you want, I know you're sweet.

She was about to continue, but I interrupt:

— ELISABETH JANE MUNSON! — I yell, throwing my head into the pillow.

I think about talking to Linda. Maybe it's a good idea. I need distraction and to figure out how to deal with this pain eating me up.

I turn to the side, hoping the daylight will bring some clarity, but the darkness keeps following me.

Just as I'm about to fall asleep, Jane comes in holding a plate and a bottle of Tylenol.

I jump out of bed, nearly tripping, paying attention to her efforts to see me well, even though she seems distant.

— Eat. I made hot soup, and if you refuse, you’ll have to talk to the belt! — She threatens, glaring at me.

— Soup isn't dinner, Jane! — I joke, and soon we’re both laughing like two fools.

— Don’t argue with the one who knows things, or I’ll confiscate your guitar, and you’ll go straight to the attic! — She gives me a serious look, but I can't resist smiling.

— Anything but the guitar! You talk like I don't have maturity.

— I don’t doubt you take care of yourself, but sometimes you ask for some corrections, Eddie Munson. — Her posture is authoritative, but I know she’s holding back a laugh.

— Alright, sunshine. — I accept the plate like a good boy.

— And don't forget the medicine. You need to ease those muscle pains.

— Okay, Miss Worry, I’ll sort it out by looking at a Pamela Anderson magazine. — I reply with a cheeky smile, hoping to get another laugh from her.

I finish the soup, making faces. The texture isn’t exactly what I expected.

— What’s with the face? — Jane stares at me, offended.

— I don’t want to eat spinach. — I mutter, swirling the spoon in the bowl, as if that would change anything.

— We need to talk seriously, Eddie...

Her tone makes me want to provoke her even more.

— Then talk! — I challenge, already preparing another joke.

I get up, grab a water bottle, and tear the medicine off the strip. I swallow the Tylenol and look back at her.

— I won’t be able to go to the graduation. Not to the prom either... — She says, guilt written all over her face.

It wouldn’t be the first time, and I won’t condemn her.

— Don’t start, Jane. This isn’t the first time you’ve canceled something of mine. But I understand, this is how we survive. And I’m old enough to know that your livelihood is at stake.

— Who are you, kid? — She asks, and I don’t miss the chance to joke about it.

— The banished by darkness... and now, a bat. — I laugh, trying to lighten the heavy mood.

— Edward Munson?! — She repeats, almost in disbelief.

— Ask Nel to take you to the graduation, for God’s sake! — She tries to change the subject.

— Do I have to deal with that dragon? — I mock, pulling a face.

Inside, I know that, in the middle of this madness, we’re still a family. Somehow, this gives me a little peace.

After my mom leaves the room, I try to sleep a bit. But I’m woken up by the cellphone vibrating stubbornly.

I open the screen and see several messages:

Stiles: Good morning, flower of the day. So, how was it with the newbie?

Stiles: Is something going to happen between you two at the party?

Stiles: Still waiting for that D&D game.

Stiles: Are you alive? Give me a sign, Eddie!

I take a deep breath and start replying.

Me: Not your business if I’m hooking up with her, kid.

Me: About the online D&D game? I’ll charge you.

Stiles: Ah, I kinda gave up on Carver.

Me: Wanna finish off the beer stock at the Hideout tomorrow night?

Stiles: This isn’t a celebration.

Stiles: How do you think I should dress up, Eddie?

Me: Don’t go as Barbie, or you’ll steal Carver’s spotlight.

Me: What are you going as, druid?

Stiles: Depression this year.

Me: That’s cool!

Me: Why don’t you go in mourning?

I roll my eyes but can’t help but smile as I type.

Stiles: This mistake hurt more than a sword blow.

Me: Is it over?

Stiles: No! And you?

Me: I don’t know...

Stiles: I didn’t ask if you did it, Eddie.

Me: Ah... I didn’t, and I won’t.

Stiles: You’ll have to decide what you’re going as to the gathering.

Me: Give me some light here.

Stiles: Metal God, like Ozzy?

Me: Ozzy? Cool!

Stiles: Bruce?

Me: Iron Maiden... Can I ask you something serious?

Stiles: Depends...

Me: I kissed Lily when I took her home. Keep it between us. Don’t spill it!!

Stiles: Eddie, have you been smoking something stronger?

Me: About Lily, got it? We almost went to a more intimate level.

Stiles: Now I believe it. You guys make a cute couple.

Me: I ended up confessing, damn it!

Stiles: Eddie! What?!

I sigh, feeling the pressure rise. I throw the phone aside for a moment, but quickly pick it up again.

Me: I always mess things up!

Me: I never like anyone... and a girl caught me?

Stiles: No, you’re not dumb for falling in love.

Stiles: Keep winning her over, don’t give Harrington or Carver a chance.

Me: Okay, Gandalf.

Me: I won’t let the athletes take my potential crush.

Me: But are you sure she might want to be with me again?

Stiles: You’re my Bilbo.

Stiles: Of course I’m sure, man. If there’s been a kiss, it can evolve into something more serious.

Me: Thanks, you’re helpful :)

Stiles: Good luck, Master Munson.

Stiles: You can get Lily’s heart, trust me. Just don’t give up.

I drop the phone on the nightstand. My mind goes back to Lily, and for a moment, I feel a fireworks show in my heart.

---

I close my eyes again, trying to calm the dragons in my mind. I think I would dress up as John Lennon. The idea came from a past event. It all started when my mother showed me a live Beatles performance—the music video for Love Me Do—I loved Lennon/McCartney.

Jane Munson was rebellious, but she listened to jazz. She’d play Louis Armstrong and other greats on the turntable, singing most of the songs to me, like 'Baby It’s You,' in the voice of the Beatles. Even the Rolling Stones and Jimi Hendrix were part of her repertoire. I don’t remember nights or late afternoons from my childhood, but knowing that she sang to me makes life less dull.

They say I inherited this from her—not just in genetics, but in musical taste. Even today, I still enjoy the songs my mother introduced me to.

During her teenage years, Eli Munson dove into rock and heavy metal, discovering a range of genres that would change her life. She became a walking encyclopedia of 80s legends.

— Hilarious, just like her son, I would say.

One fact: my mother can memorize the release year of an album, but an important date the following day? If you want her to remember your birthday, you might as well give up.

They say, "Like mother, like son." I’m a legitimate copy of Elisabeth Jane’s stubbornness and an unregistered copy of Demeritus Alanfiero's irony.

Music was always a constant. When a melody grabs you, it’s like having a naked woman in front of you—the shiver rises up to your pants. Teenagers feel excitement even listening to metal. Somehow, we become prisoners of what we choose to listen to.

To this day, my mom enjoys Kiss, Iron Maiden, The Beatles, Rolling Stones... Later, after her personality was formed, she studied psychology. After graduating, she opened a medical practice and soon became known as the best psychoanalyst in town.

Jane Munson was the queen of psychology. The others? Just apprentices.

As for me, I don’t care what people think of Edward Munson. At least I wasn’t trained to accept narrow-minded people telling me what to do with my life. But, about prom... The excitement of finding the perfect costume grows by the second.

And everything changed when someone welcomed my dragons.

Linda Hansol, the girl who makes me nervous since we bumped into each other in the halls of Howling High. This feeling is strange to my eyes, but Lily’s decision to go to prom with me changed my perspective on the event being a complete waste of time.

It’s all that damn love bat I let bite me.

In the end, rock and metal are also a kind of salvation. Just like they were for my mother.— the cultivation of dead flowers that needed new planting. And she succeeded. The garden bloomed when she found comfort in a band she’s still grateful to for saving her.

Normally, I talk only about rock or metal, but now it’s something different: Synth-pop.

Jane saw some charm in Depeche Mode, feeling particular things for Dave Gahan, the baritone and lead singer of the band. In that wave of growing hormones she told me about, I decided to give them a chance and listen to their discography. I remembered that I had already heard some Depeche Mode songs during a trip with friends. —it was the first time I sensed boldness in the lyrics.

Stepping a bit away from the music roots...

There was a phase hardly anyone mentions, but my mother got involved with drugs. Fortunately, she got rid of the intoxication before insolvency stole her biggest dreams.

Jane Munson, the tremendous mother who also played the role of father. This makes me reflect on how many parents don't value themselves. If we don’t tell them they can be more amazing than they think, they let some insecurity lead them to the valley of inadequacy.

Parents spend their whole lives wondering where they went wrong when something haunts their kids during their teenage years—this period when we face our own dragons.

I know I’m not the bravest warrior. But it’s bizarre to think that graduation doesn’t have to be hell.

I can't even say it was an easy year... But at least it was less hellish than the previous ones. I had to beg Mrs. Davis for an A in history.

— Help me, I don’t want to repeat the year again!

And the gray-haired woman responded in kind:

— If I don’t see effort, how do you think I should reward you, Munson?

After that, I’d leave the classroom and go behind the school to smoke a joint, with one phrase in my head:

"Jesus didn’t study and did well in life."

Strange, but every moment with Lily is one of those I wish to carve on the walls of my heart. And now, besides her, something else makes me anxious: graduation.

All this formality has gained a meaning beyond boredom.

Things aren’t as impossible as we think.

And the star of my show... is Linda.

If there really is an intense chord being played, why can’t she hear it?

I throw myself onto the bed, feeling the exhaustion hit me like an avalanche. Sleep comes strong, like the nights when I felt drained, but... Since I’m the leader in Dungeons & Dragons, I can’t abandon my duties as the dungeon master by falling into laziness.

Yet, as always, sleep traps me in its snare.

Plan A: wake up with my brain on turbo, like workers in the Industrial Revolution being exploited to the bone. Okay, I exaggerate by comparing.

The thing is, school isn’t too far from that. Some students silently face the prejudiced misconduct of teachers who turn their noses up at those who don’t belong to the genius club.

If you wear black and listen to music that “worships” the devil, welcome to the club. I’ve already paid my dues by being part of this circle of guys excluded and judged by appearance. Believe me, it’s not about you, it’s about them.

Jason Carver? An idiot pretending to be the leader of a group that enjoys sexist jokes because he needs to vent his emotional blocks on someone. The worst part? We were friends once... but that story doesn’t even feel canon.

If people here look at me like I’m a freak, I assume they wouldn’t even bother getting to know me better. Amidst this hell of idiots, at least I thank Carver.—his envy woke up a dragon that had been dormant for years.

And when I think of the word healing, my brain illustrates: Linda Hansol. Her presence casts a spell on this dwarf who only knows how to run away from this web of emotions.

Romance, a while ago, seemed boring to me. Now, running away is no longer an option. As the wise Jane Munson says, Lily brings the strength I need to face my dragons.

My mind is a mess. The only goal now is to get a decent grade on Mrs. Davis’s history test. If I don’t pass, I’d rather be devoured by bats.

Okay, I exaggerate for a high school student.

Trying to please Mrs. Davis and become her “favorite student” doesn’t seem smart. We’re in the last days of school, and flattery isn’t going to change her opinion of me. My plan is more direct.— based on the wisdom I learned from my parents when we were still a happy family and my father was a decent man.

Though I like history, it’s just another subject I’ll ban from my life. Mrs. Davis always said that, despite my dark drawings, I had potential. She was one of the few who truly cared, trying to understand my worldview and encouraging me to explore my talents. We even became friends, sharing stories and discussing books. She believed in me in a way that few did.

At school, those who hide in the back, usually the nerds, are always ready for a game of D&D, a discussion on medieval scenarios, or an intellectual battle over Mordor, Lothlórien, and Rivendell.

What they don’t know is that no one becomes a master of wisdom without drinking from the fountain of knowledge.

Since Lily stepped into Howling, something in me has changed. I don’t know how to be conscious of my actions or emotions, but if there’s a reward at the end—the heart of hers—it’s worth the risk. Paladins don’t give up their honor before facing the hell of demons.

And the greatest of my “dragons” has always been my father and the absence he left in the darkest period of my life. I can’t even feel proud of the lessons Al taught me after he left my mother and the two kids.

This hammers in my mind. What happened to the old man to forget the good guy he used to be before money became the center of everything? Demeritus Alanfiero Munson sank into the hands of capitalism until he became an Idiot with a capital I.

The difference between us? I was almost tempted by the dark side of the force, but I fled like a bat to the hills. The old man willingly gave himself up.

Vader and Luke?

Wayne wasn’t to blame for becoming my legal guardian. It wasn’t easy for the bearded guy to adapt—when my parents divorced, I was still a dependent kid.

Over time, Wayne took on the father figure. This redneck has no idea how much I admire his lessons and how he views the world, even when everything is hanging by a thread.

The old man will always be my father, but all the effort Wayne made for me, I want to repay in some way when I can. Maybe buy a house. Or a respected car.

And of course, I can’t forget Jane Elisabeth Munson, even though the breakdown in communication shattered our mother-son connection. I can’t see her as a stranger—I was born from her womb.

In the years I lived with Wayne, we went through hardships. There was a time when hunger was tight, and in the middle of despair, he was saved by an old friend from the area.

Mikensol was moved and gave us a farm when we left the trailer. Our life on the farm was simple: we woke up with the rooster’s crow, gathered eggs, milked cows, and at the end of the day, we ate hidden strawberries.

Mischievous as always, I’d get myself into trouble.

— Kid, watch out for the pesticides on the strawberries!— Wayne grumbled, never managing to stop me.

---

Maybe everything that happened wasn’t just a streak of bad luck. You know, there are people who are the calm in the storm for demons.

Since my dad abandoned us, living without a male figure in my life has been hell. Wayne did his best, but I still had to go back to my mom when she was released from that damn psychiatric clinic my dad put her in.

At fifteen, I started working with Wayne at a mechanic shop east of Howling. Unbelievable, but I became quite the hit with the women at Wayne’s Mechanic.

I don’t know what they saw in me—was it my smile, the dimples, or the charm of a shy guy? Or maybe it was that thing where women can’t resist a man in overalls, lying under a car... with the “bumper” flashing!

I don’t take responsibility for all the choices I made. I was just a messed-up teenager.

People love to label you—if you're reserved, you have a heart of ice; if you show emotion, you’re dramatic.

Good thing I walk my own path.

I head to the bathroom, grab my clothes, and take a hot shower. When I come downstairs, I wave at Nel, and we settle in for breakfast. The conversation starts off even pleasant, despite the ever-changing moods.

In the morning, I tend to be quieter. I put on my headphones and lose myself in the music. Antonella, on the other hand, is the type of person who just can’t keep her mouth shut.

Miraculously, that morning, there was no food fight.

— What’s with those dark circles? — She teases. — Were you playing RPG with your friends?

I roll my eyes.

�� None of your business, Nelly. — I scratch my neck, changing the track on my playlist. A calm Metallica song starts playing.

— You’re not going to say you’re tired of devil music? — She laughs, and I just give her a disapproving look.

— Go find something else to do, brat! — I pretend to be dramatic.

— You don’t know how to play, Ed! — She calls me by my nickname, trying to calm me down.

— Why don’t you bother someone your size? — I refer to her friends, who are much smaller.

Antonella stares at me, surprised that I’m listening to something other than heavy metal.

— I feel like you’re interested in a girl, huh? — She grins mischievously.

— Stop speculating, because it doesn’t make sense, Nelly. — I deny, but my voice betrays me.

Clearly, if someone said, “Eddie, is that Linda?” my neck would turn 360 degrees like an owl’s.

— Strange... — She raises an eyebrow. — You didn’t say the classic “Today’s a great day to stay in the grave!”

I shrug.

— One day, boredom gives up on us. — I confess, and she gets even more suspicious.

— What do you mean? — She looks at me, trying to catch any sign of my mood shift.

— What’s wrong?

— You’re acting weird, Eddie. Aren’t you going to eat anything? — She breaks the bread into pieces.

— Just some fruit. I’ll eat something later and lock myself in my room to play guitar. — I grab the fruit and toss it in my backpack.

— I see... You’re not going to play guitar, you’re going to play something else. I thought you’d replenish your metabolism to fight Carver! — She teases, mixing sarcasm and a hint of violence.

It’s not a lie that I want to knock the teeth out of that hypocrite who always plays the moralist at school.

I shrug, out of patience.

— Who told you that? Your friends? — I raise an eyebrow, suspicious.

She pretends indifference, but I bet she heard it at school. In Howling, everyone knows about the scandals. It’s like Derry, where they pretend there’s no creepy clown eating children around the city. Here, everyone acts like a tabloid, twisting everything.

And after the fight with Carver, I can already imagine the rumors: Eddie, the weirdo. Eddie Munson rose from the grave to destroy the peaceful town!

— When I was heading to the cafeteria, some girls were gossiping and I heard your name...

Antonella tries to hide it, but I know liars better than anyone. Years of crime documentaries have taught me to catch every little detail.

— Nelly, you hate going there. You always stay away from the cafeteria with your friends. I’ve got you. — I solve the puzzle.

— I don’t care about gossip, Eddie! — She defends herself, almost yelling.

— Alright. But we both know you have a soft spot for it, sis. — I tease, exaggerating my voice.

— I DON’T LIE, EDDIE! — She yells, outraged. — I’ve never spread gossip about you!

— So to you, I’m evil and sinister? — I mock. — Want a halo or a pair of horns as a present for your birthday?

— It’s a sin to doubt your own sister!

— I’m just saying poking around where you shouldn’t can be... dangerous. — I make quotation marks with my fingers.

She rolls her eyes.

— Fine! A friend told me about the fight when they were heading to class. Satisfied? But that’s it, you’re the talk of the town at Howling High!

I let out a sigh, clenching my teeth.

— Wonderful. Now my name is on the lips of people I can’t stand.

I can already see the disaster approaching. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s a hell of a headache.

— And you, why woke up early? — I ask, suspicious.

— I’ve got a recovery test...

— Test? — I frown.

I know she just wants my company so she doesn’t have to talk to the walls. After all, who doesn’t want to be heard?

— What’s with the face? — She curls up under my scrutinizing gaze.

— You’re not as genius as me, but you’re not stupid either. — I point out, surprised.

— It’s because my cheerleader friend switched classrooms... But, what if things were different?

Cheerleader? I’ve seen this movie before.

— Let’s crush this subject like angry ogres! — I try to motivate her, but she doesn’t seem to share in the spirit of it.

— You know... I kind of like this new version of you. An imaginative Eddie, without being annoying.

---

— Nelly, enjoy the show. Because when I get my diploma, I'm going to face the principal, rip that damn paper up, and leave Howling! — I exclaim, savoring the taste of victory even before I’ve earned it.

— Now I don’t doubt it. But seriously... you're not wearing anything, Eddie? — She looks at me sideways, suspicious.

— Come on! I stopped a long time ago!

I quit drugs. If I ever go back, it will be for fun or nostalgia.

— If it’s not that, there’s a girl involved. — She deduces, intrigued.

I avoid details. It’s not that I don’t want to talk about my abstinence, but discussing the heavy stuff I used to do in my teens doesn’t make a difference. I need to stay alive. My dreams are waiting.

And then there’s her.

Someone truly loved me, without second intentions. Just her. Quinn. She taught me to love people and, in a way, I feel I owe her. I need to be happy. But then Linda came... I’ve never felt so torn.

After experiencing the dark side of love, I’m haunted by everything that comes with it: fear, insecurity, rejection.

I think I’ve been blessed to find the Hellfire guys. Somehow, I became the “know-it-all dad” of the group, but I fear that, if I ever have a kid, I’ll end up being a reflection of my own father. A child baptized by trauma. Maybe I’d teach them that it’s okay not to always be in a good mood...

Honestly? During that time, I had to choose between embracing the sky or being swallowed by the devil.

And guess which path I took?

— Eddie, are you high? — Nelly snaps her fingers in front of my face.

— Just thinking... about dark things. You know, girls and love.

She, who’s usually colder than Patagonia, seems touched.

— You’ve always lived your own way. They don’t know about your dreams. Only you.

— I don’t want my life to be a waste of time. Living in an internal prison? I’m out. I want to live everything.

— First comes you. Then the girls of Howling. — She winks.

— Alright... Should I call an exorcist?

— I’m just taking care of you. I don’t want you to go through what I did.

I shrug.

— I love this “big sister” act, but... — I make air quotes. — I’ll take care of myself, okay?

— Sure. But speaking of girls... Everyone knows Eddie Munson has a dark history with love.

— Nelly, seriously... I’m not in love! — I deny, maybe a little too quickly.

But the truth is, my heart races when I see Lily. It’s like a clock starts chiming inside my soul.

I’ve fallen in love before, but it was at the wrong time, in childhood. I know what happens when the illusion gains too much power. And I’m not willing to be destroyed again.

— You don’t have to pretend it’s a lie. After all, you’re a Munson, and we live up to the family name!

Damn, she caught me.

— Since when is a last name synonymous with an insult? — I retort, gesturing nervously. Although, inside, I want to laugh at the situation.

— The Munsons always find a reason not to tell the truth?

— I don’t want to be rude, but I don’t have time for heart stuff. I’ll get ready, maybe my hormones will finally feel useful. — I try to escape her investigation, but my attempt fails.

— Dopamine or serotonin? — she asks, trying to figure out which girl finally caught my attention after years of drought.

I can’t even call this a conquest, considering all my attempts always go wrong in the realm of love. Though I have a collection of cases, it’s better not to comment.

— Any hormone that sweeps away the damn sadness! I’m going to start looking better for the girls in Howling!

— That sounds so different from you. There were times when you didn’t even take a shower!

— I admit I used to be a slob, but the slob dynasty has ended! Times change, people change. It’s over! — I declare, looking at her seriously.

— You admitted the reason for the change is the girls. Gotcha! — She points a finger in my face, victorious.

Nelly hits the mark, giving me that mischievous smile of someone who sees the truth. My expression is torn between wanting to release repressed feelings and not knowing how to hide what I feel when I fall in love.

The truth is, I’ve never seen anyone with such sweet eyes and, at the same time, carrying the colors of a new world. Lily...

— Since when does taking care of your appearance mean you’re into someone? Which rulebook is that written in, Nelly? — I try to escape, but I’m already caught in her web.

— I know because your voice goes up four octaves... Gotcha, Eddie! — She celebrates, flexing her muscles. — What the heart doesn’t say, the eyes scream. Eddie is in love! Eddie is in love!

— Did you drink expired chocolate? — I retort, but I know she’s won.

Damn, Munson.

I shrug, ignoring Antonella’s teasing. I go to my room and get dressed: ripped jeans at the knees, a Hellfire Club t-shirt, and a denim jacket with patches of my favorite bands. Iron Maiden on my chest, because metal is life!

— Shit, it’s seven o’clock... — I murmur, looking at my wristwatch.

I run my hand over the poster of the legendary Eddie, the Maiden mascot, asking for his blessing.

— Send some energy this way, man! I receive your grace, Lord Eddie! — I close my eyes and wait for the divine sign.

Minutes later...

Before leaving the house, I grab my red Warlock and check for scratches. Thankfully, it’s still intact.

My mom gave me this guitar when I turned fifteen. It was the start of a dream.

As I step outside, the day is pleasant. The sun shines, the birds sing, muffling the sound of cars and the almost ghost-town-like quiet of Fridays.

I get in the van, turn the key in the ignition, and see some elderly couples walking by and greeting me. I maneuver carefully—my sister parked her Chevrolet way too close.

On the road, the trip is short. I park in front of the school gate, lock the windows, engage the parking brake, and run inside. I pass the monitors, enter the classroom, throw my backpack on the desk, and put on my headphones. The player starts, and I follow the rhythm, tapping my foot until the teacher arrives.

Suddenly, someone pulls my headphones.

— Lindsay Storm — she introduces herself.

Blonde, ocean eyes... She kind of reminds me of someone, but Lily’s laughter in the hallway cuts my attention. When I decide to go after her, she trips, and as I catch her waist, we almost kiss.

A weird déjà vu takes over me, like I’m about to fall into a loop. Before I can process, Miss Davis appears, and Lily quickly gets up. In the rush, she accidentally headbutts me.

The hit hurt, but the pain fades with her endless apologies.

She’s a sweet dream. And I hope I don’t wake up from it too soon.

---

Back in the classroom, I notice Lily strangely quiet, while the blue-eyed girl insists on flirting with me. But she quickly gives up when she sees where my attention really lies.

Lily sits far from my desk, and, accepting defeat, I’m surprised to see her staring at a doodle I made on the desk—a drawing inspired by our conversation about D&D, elves, and dwarves. Small, discreet... but what if she thinks I’m a stalker?!

— Wow! That’s such a pretty drawing! — she compliments, catching me off guard.

I feel my face burn. I throw my books on the desk, trying to hide. If she sees the full drawing, I’m screwed.

— Uh... Thanks. I was just drawing a cute and fearless creature...

— Really? But what planet were you on? — she asks, frowning.

— I was gonna ask the same, halfling... — I eye her lip glossed lips.

— Hm... I’d kiss you, but hold on, rocker.

— Friends kiss too... Seems like you're ignoring what happened back at my place... Halfling, has anyone told you to stay away from the weird one?

Damn. I was too quick. I want to bury my head in the ground.

— Is all of this from a lack of attention? — she teases, resting her chin on her hand.

And she keeps going? How does she manage to be so adorable?

— Why are you treating me differently since we kissed, Lily? — I ask, bluntly.

She pretends she’s going to kiss me, and I grimace like I’m about to return the favor, but Linda slaps my head.

— Oh, no chance, we’re not kissing... — she pushes my head away and messes up my hair.

The touch is gentle. I feel like a cat being petted by its owner.

I hold her hand, comparing it to mine.

— What are you doing, Eddie? — she widens her eyes.

— Baby hands. — I measure. — Look at mine... it looks like an ogre’s next to yours.

She laughs, and the sound warms my chest. I try to hide the tension.

— You’re as rough as Shrek. The only difference is he’s chunky and you’re lean.

— If you keep this up, I’ll run to a swamp and become a hermit...

The classroom chatter mixes with the birds singing outside.

— Hey, what if we went to my place after school? — I scratch the back of my neck.

— What for?

— Just... to get away from civilization. Sometimes, I want to isolate myself and live like an animal in the woods.

— You want space? Become an astronaut — she teases, and I look at her sideways.

— That cut, damn.

— You love being underestimated. I doubt you’ll get the story.

— Being underestimated gives me motivation. So, will you accept the invitation or not? My trailer, the woods... your choice.

Linda hesitates.

— Yeah, if I didn’t have important stuff to do today...

— What could be more important than spending time with Eddie Munson, the weirdo?

— Eddie, I got fired from my job. My mom found me another one. I can’t be late on my first day.

— Want a ride? How long does it take to get from school to your place? — I grab her hand, but she quickly pulls it away.

— It’s far. Walking, we wouldn’t make it in time.

— Who said we were walking?

— Oh, did you come by van today? — she asks, pretending to be surprised.

— Yes, Linda... But it’s good for the tired feet of a princess. If you accept, I promise not to run red lights — I talk about the van as if it were a luxury vehicle.

She crosses her arms, thinking.

— I don’t want creatures to eat us in the woods...

— Blood tastes like metal, but I bet yours is sweet like gummy bears.

— Did you get high? — she pulls back.

— Since that night, I’ve been high on love. It’s worth trying to win over Bambi girl... — I murmur, smiling shyly.

— There’s a sense of ipseity in the air...

— What the hell is that? A disease? — I ask, not hiding my ignorance.

— A Latin word meaning to be different. Like, you’re unique!

Ah, if Lily only knew how much she captivated me since the day I saw her playing guitar at the talent show...

— After the kiss, is there nothing going on in that head of yours?

— No, of course not.

— I swear loyalty to what you told me. But, redhead, don’t think just because I’m acting differently, I’m in love. After all these slapdowns, you lost any chance with the weirdo. — I pretend to be uninterested, but she gives me a strange look.

— Good thing you’re my friend, Eddie...

Another stab to the heart. Another “we’re friends” to Eddie Munson’s list of love disasters.

— Linda, did you feel the voltage in my lips when we kissed?

— That kiss was an accident.

She throws her hair over the desk, way too casual for my taste.

— Do your spell, tiefling. Shall we?

She knows about D&D? That’s new. Did she lie?

— I won’t try to convince you if you don’t want to. But... don’t you want to go to the clearing behind the school? Where you wanted the drugs that day?

I give her my best cute face. It always works.

— I can resist your cute face. Give up, banished! — She breaks me.

— I respect your refusal. I won’t ask why. I’m just sad I can’t keep a connection with you. I wanted to have another magical day with this little fairy...

— Fairy? — Lily makes a face.

— I need an honest opinion. Can you give it?

— Hm, Eddie? — Her curiosity suddenly gives me a kiss.

— Can this tattoo upset anyone? — I ask, quietly, excited.

She grabs the sketch and examines it.

— A bit bold...

I lick my lips, satisfied.

— Perfect analysis. I’ll get it tattooed when I have the money!

— Look, it has a big butt... — Her eyes run over the illustration, somewhat critical.

— I don’t care. A bonus. Rear commission.

She blushes at the almost indirect flirt.

— Eddie, does your forehead hurt after that bump?

— Only my heart, from you rejecting the love I would give you. — Nailed it.

— I said the forehead. I gave you a bump that made me rethink my life!

— My minotaur horns will be fine. — I laugh.

---

— Sorry, I was distracted, banished... — She looks at me with a mix of guilt and insecurity.

I don’t argue. I’m used to the nickname, and to be honest, I kinda like it. An involuntary smile slips out. The incident doesn’t bother me; accidents happen.

Surprisingly, she’s stolen a piece of my heart and makes me feel at home every moment. I don’t know how to deal with it, so I remember what my dad used to say about girls... but his words don’t help at all. I’d accept being born from any other sperm, as long as it wasn’t Demeritus Alanfiero Munson’s.

— Are you okay, Eddie? — Lily snaps her fingers in front of me. — Did you go to hell before I sent you there?

— My angel, I’ve already lived too much in the darkness! — I respond theatrically, gesturing exaggeratedly.

I change the subject, trying to be serious:

— Can I ask you something?

She thinks for a second, her eyes lighting up with some idea.

— Are you gonna ask the color of my panties? — She hits me on the arm before I can answer.

My eyes widen, damn butterflies, stay still... it’s not time to fly yet!

Before I can react, Mrs. Davis breaks our eye contact.

— Linda and Edward, quiet. I’m handing out the tests!

I exchange a knowing look with Lily. Another adventure awaits us.

She shrinks back in her chair, as if she could disappear, her eyes restlessly shifting between the blackboard and her hands that never stop moving.

The teacher starts handing out the tests. We lower our heads and begin to answer. But then comes the disadvantage: the questions have nothing to do with each other... Goodbye, cheating.

---

I see the few options on the test, but the anxiety just grows. My hands are sweating. I have no idea what the right answer is.

Honestly, I’m starting to doubt the existence of my brain...

History Exam: French Revolution

1. What was the main cause of the French Revolution?

A) The French invasion by England

B) Extreme poverty and hunger among the population

C) France’s support for the American Revolution

D) Social inequality and the economic crisis

---

2. In what year did the French Revolution begin?

A) 1776

B) 1789

C) 1799

D) 1804

---

3. Who was the king of France when the French Revolution began?

A) Louis XV

B) Napoleon Bonaparte

C) Charles X

D) Louis XVI

---

4. What event is generally considered the beginning of the French Revolution?

A) The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

B) The calling of the Estates-General

C) The fall of the Bastille

D) The execution of Marie Antoinette

---

5. What important document was adopted by the National Constituent Assembly in 1789?

A) The Declaration of Independence

B) The Napoleonic Code

C) The Magna Carta

D) The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen

---

My mind becomes a mess, neurons colliding in an endless traffic jam. In the end, I mark:

1. D

2. B

3. D

4. C

5. D

---

My mind erased everything I learned, but I ignored the anxiety buzzing in my ears.

It took me an hour and a half to finish. I finished before Linda, and since I’d already been drawing behind my test, the teacher assumed I was done.

— Boy, you’re not a kid anymore to be doodling on your test. — Davis raises an eyebrow with a smile.

I shrug, in no hurry to stop.

I hand in the test, and she places it among the papers, adjusting her glasses on her face.

— Blame it on boredom... And when will the results be out, Mrs. Davis? — I ask, forcing innocence while making a grimace.

— Those who did well will be notified. The others... well, no graduation kit. — She shakes her head.

— Students kill themselves all year long, and in the end, they lose their sanity over this piece of paper. — I let out an ironic smile.

The look she gives me clearly says: Does she think it’s easy dealing with repeaters?

I grab my backpack, slide my arms through the straps, and say goodbye to Linda. She stares at me with a look that almost squeezes my heart.

— You got this, little one... — I whisper in sign language, winking at her.

But she seems lost in space.

Why the hell is she so cute?

It’s happening again, damn it... Soon, I’ll be falling for this girl.

---

As soon as I get home, I take off my white Reeboks — which I only take off when they no longer fit — and kneel down to untie the shoelaces, enjoying the moment of rest.

I put food on the table, feeding my stomach that's been growling for hours. I fill my plate and chew quickly, not wasting time.

After eating, I put my sneakers back on and head out, breathing in the fresh air. I walk until my toes start tingling. On the way, a costume shop catches my attention. I go in, greeted by a girl with a wide smile — something rare among Howling salespeople.

— Good morning! Can I help you? — she asks, her eyes sparkling.

I massage my neck, a bit awkward.

— Do you sell costumes?

She smiles and picks up a red cape.

— Of course! If you'd like, I can make some suggestions.

— That would help a lot.

She thinks for a moment, and my anxiety grows as I watch her expressions.

— Have you heard of Dungeons & Dragons? — she asks, excited.

My interest piques immediately.

— I have an RPG club! Why?

— What if it’s Kas? — she suggests, tilting her head.

I raise my eyebrows.

— The traitor who killed Vecna?

— Yes! My son’s been playing RPG since he was thirteen, so I’ve learned a bit about it.

My heart speeds up.

— Do you have costumes for all the classes?

— From clerics to halflings. What do you need?

I take a look at the shelves.

— I want to see some options.

She shows me other costumes, including Deadpool, and points out a cloak. In the end, I choose the Kas one, her suggestion.

— You’ll love it. The fabric is soft, and it even comes with a Ghostface mask and a Deadpool one as a bonus! — she says, excited.

I run my hand over the fabric, satisfied.

— Lucky me to find a mother whose son loves D&D.

She laughs.

— Do you know how to do the makeup?

— No idea.

— Easy. You just need a black pencil and something to make your skin pale, like a lighter foundation. Simple, right?

I nod, absorbing the information. Now I just need to get ready for the party.

I thank her for the gift and head home. When I get there, I see Jamie taking the motorcycle out of the garage, adjusting the helmet on his head.

— Woke up early, Eddie. You have a fever? — he asks, furrowing his brow.

— Went out to buy the costume for the party. Oh, and I took the history test. — I try to sound casual, but a pang of envy hits me when I remember the day he tried to steal Linda Hansol from me.

I swallow hard and ignore it.

— Hope you passed. Oh, we don’t have practice today, did they tell you? — he says, looking relieved.

— What the hell, why didn’t anyone tell me?

— It’s gonna be like this until graduation. They canceled the state league semifinals.

I cross my arms, annoyed.

— And when were you gonna tell me?

Jamie sighs, his gaze distant.

— My mom’s sick. She won’t eat, keeps saying she’s gonna leave the restaurant to me... and that I should move to Italy.

The anger gives way to a tightness in my chest.

— What does she have?

— Leukemia. The treatment’s killing her. Sami’s trying to make her days less painful. I hate this disease, Eddie...

I fall silent for a moment. I remember Mrs. Lower’s dinners, the times she’d refuse food, and she’d pat me on the head, laughing.

— She’s not gonna lose this damn battle. — I squeeze his shoulder, trying to give him strength.

Jamie takes a deep breath, blinking rapidly before changing the subject.

— Did you hear what the principal said?

— What did the old man do now?

— He rented a fancy hall and has a surprise for the party.

I raise my eyebrows, skeptical.

— Oh, I thought he legalized weed.

Jamie rolls his eyes.

— And Stiles? Takamori? Didn’t they tell you anything?

— Nobody tells me anything. They don’t even know I was under medical care for my sciatic.

— I thought you said "asian nerve". Get well soon, man. But seriously, are you sure they didn’t tell you anything?

— NO, JJ! ARE YOU A DAMN SENILE OLD MAN?!

He huffs.

— I have a lot on my mind, Eddie!

And so do I. Basketball’s taking up too much space in my life, and honestly... I’m not sure I want to keep doing this.

— So, what are you wearing to the party?

— To be honest, I’m not excited at all. — He kicks a small stone on the asphalt. — My ex wants to get back together. She said she loves me, but...

— Do you still have feelings for that bitch?

If he says yes, I’ll punch him.

— Never had any. But, to make things worse, my sister’s in a bad mental state...

— And your dad? Haven’t seen that guy in ages.

Jamie lets out a bitter laugh.

— That bastard left everything to my mom, the restaurant, the debts...

I clench my fists.

— I’m in if you want to go after that son of a bitch.

— No, but I hope one day justice will be served.

— Who loves the rose, endures the thorns... I read that somewhere.

What Jamie doesn’t know is that I consider him like a brother. And brothers help each other.

— If you need anything for your mom...

He cuts me off before I finish.

— No, Eddie. I take care of my family.

— At least accept some help, damn it.

He stays silent. I sigh, defeated.

— Then send her a hug from me.

---

— Don’t worry, I’ll send her a hug. She’ll like it, you can bet. And who’s going to be your date to the party? Are you going to tell me, or do I have to give you a Russian doll?

— The halfling who stole the beats of a noble heart from a lonely orc... and looks like a bard, because she’s beautiful. — I murmur, avoiding details.

— Spit it out, Munson! — He pleads, clasping his hands.

He doesn’t like beating around the bush. He needs me to be direct.

— I’m going with Linda Hansol. — I reveal, but regret it immediately. I know he likes her too.

Jamie stops smiling.

— Linda? Is that a joke?

— Are you going to call me a freak? Say I’m ugly to Lily? — I provoke.

— No, Munson. You’re the most handsome guy I know.

Sweet... too bad I’m about to order your coffin.

— Very kind. But I thought you were going to congratulate me.

— Your birthday’s already passed, you banished one!

I wanted to punch him in the head.

I decide to stay silent to avoid committing murder. Jamie, in a hurry, says:

— Be careful not to end up in the underworld with Lily, got it?

— I am vengeance! — I feel like the Bat.

— Go ahead, Batman. Take care, rockstar!

— Why does everyone say that?

I nod, assuring him I won’t do anything stupid.

Back in my hideout, I throw the Reebok in the corner and realize I’m alone. Mom must be at the hospital. The silence invites me to nap the rest of the day. Just me, my room, and my bed.

The perfect love triangle.

Antonella gets home earlier than usual, probably after another test. She hates studying, and I can’t blame her. I’m not fond of spending the night with my face buried in books either.

But when it comes to RPG, I’ve got enough talk for a lifetime.

If math could talk, it would say: "When you’re at the store, I’ll be there. Debit or credit? I’ll be there!"

Nelly doesn’t even notice me coming in. She probably thinks: "I won’t bother, the kid’s probably playing RPG or playing guitar in the garage."

She’s not wrong. Since I couldn’t sleep, I played Still Life by Iron Maiden on my Warlock.

Later, we head to the kitchen. We have lunch together, and by some miracle, we don’t start a rivalry.

Then, I get a call from Howling High’s administration: I got the highest grade in the history exam.

I jump up like one of my idols just released a new album.

Nelly reacts the same way. In the middle of the excitement, we talk about graduation and the costume party.

While she washes the dishes, I dry them. And it looks like our sink will always be full. Neither of us likes house chores.

I can’t say I’m the perfect son. I’m lazy too. But that’s not a fact, it’s a human flaw.

While I make hot chocolate, Antonella watches me, incredulous, as I pour a mountain of sugar into my mug.

— You’re gonna get diabetes! Let go, you’re gonna finish the chocolate powder! — she rants, trying to take the jar from my hands.

— Nella, what’s the problem with eating sugar?! — I hold the jar as if it were my child.

— Your health’s gonna scream for help, kid! — She crosses her arms, indignant. — And don’t make a mess, I just cleaned the kitchen!

I ignore her and grab the milk carton.

— I’m taking this to my dungeon. At least there, a master has peace!

— But I’m not done talking to you yet! — She grumbles, sassy.

— Swallow it! — I pout, leaving the jar on the table.

Before I can escape, Antonella grabs me.

— Alright, Eddie. Apologize. — She extends her hand.

— You tormented me, brat.

— Friends? — She insists, waving her hand in the air.

— I know you, Nelly... You’re plotting something devilish! — I eye her suspiciously, but I accept the handshake.

She goes back to washing the dishes, and I take the opportunity to ask:

— And the test?

— Oh, you care? — she shoots, sarcastic.

— Sis, is your arm going to fall off if you tell me?

— I did well, didn’t get a failing grade.

— Cool... Has mom come back yet?

— She’ll be back late. Any news from that bastard Carver? — she asks, while balancing dishes in the cupboard.

— Those are personal details of my life. — I hint that she’s being nosy. — Do me a favor and breathe away from me?

— Do you hate me? — She dramatizes. — Try it, I made coffee!

— You know I hate coffee.

— Let me please you a little!

— Can I check if the sugar hasn’t been swapped? — I ask, suspicious.

I open the cupboard, but before grabbing the jar, I take a deep breath.

— I hate admitting it, but sorry for being such a stubborn ass with you. I don’t want to be as cold as the South Pole...

---

— Edds, don’t you miss Quinn calling you Chewbby? — Antonella suddenly says.

Quinn had an incredible soul and chocolate-colored eyes. She used to call me Chewbby, because of Chewbacca.

— Everything was fine until you mentioned Quinn...

— And your crush? When are you going to kiss her?

— Nelly, I’ve already lived part of the dream just by finding out she exists!

— Poor thing... hasn’t kissed in so long, he’s gonna retire his mouth!

Before I can retort, she chokes on a spaghetti noodle. The pasta comes out of her nose.

— Oh, gross! Pull it through your nose!

— I’m fine! Pass me a napkin?! — she screams, struggling to speak.

I hand her the napkin, laughing.

— That choke almost banished you from Earth. Leave the disaster situations to me, Nelly.

She pretends she’s going to punch me.

After the chaos, we sit back down.

— What are you thinking, Eddie?

— About the prom... Why does it have to be a costume party?

— Like Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory?

— That’s a delusion!

— You just don’t understand because you’ve never seen a candy factory. It’s all magic, Eddie!

— Watch Fight Club and then tell me if it’s not genius.

— Oh great, now you’re a movie critic?

— Deep down, you want to go to the prom and wear a ridiculous costume like me. I can go as Bilbo!

— Gonna worship a movie that’s almost three hours long about dwarves? That’s sadder than a Nickelback concert!

— Technically, it’s two hours and fifty-eight minutes. — I pat my chest like I won a debate.

She rolls her eyes and points to the painting in my old room.

— Are you done?

— I thought you didn’t care about my stuff.

— It looked like a rocker Mona Lisa. As if you were trying to reinvent it...

I widen my eyes.

— You messed with my studio?! How many times have I told you to stay away?!

— I live here too, cornhead!

I take a step back, thinking.

— Now that I think about it... my classmate looks like the painting. Did I foresee she would come...?

— Seriously, Eddie, that painting is beautiful. You should touch it up.

— Eddie, you like her. If you need a cupid, I’m available. I can even make paper hearts.

— I don’t need a cupid. I know how to be charming.

— Had to be a Taurus! Ruled by Venus... That makes them sensual. But in your case, stubbornness fits better.

— Did you read that on the internet?

She ignores me and goes back to her phone.

— I hope the girl is nice to you. Even though my brother is annoying, stinky, and... a lost cause...

— Better stop before I get offended.

Time passes.

— Can I have some or are you going to bite me? — I ask, extending my hand for the plate of pasta.

— No! There’s little left!

She pulls the plate so fast that the pasta flies... and hits me.

— Oh, I’m going to sue you for carbohydrate robbery!

After the mess, I had to change clothes, I got sauce all over me. When I was going down the stairs, Nelly started laughing like a banshee at a rock concert.

— Look, you’re a stew now! You’re a good meal for the new little wolf! — she teases, holding her stomach from laughing so hard.

— You’re gonna pay for this, brat! — I curse with a deadly look.

— I’m shaking with fear! Look at my hand! — She pretends to be scared, but her smile gives her away.

— Go to hell with that hand! — I mutter, running out of the kitchen as she tries to catch me, like we’re kids playing tag.

Later, I said goodbye to her and spent the rest of the day strumming Never The Heroes by Judas Priest. Then, I watched Airheads (1994). Yeah, I like some cult rock movies. The popcorn session helped distract my mind, but I couldn’t stop thinking about Linda... A real frustration.

I received a phone call from Howling High notifying me that I aced the History test. A cursed joy.

At night, my mom came back from the clinic and passed out on the couch. She deserved to relax. I made coffee and left the cup on the coffee table next to her. I adjusted her head with a soft pillow—almost like an act of devotion.

I went back to my room quietly, but almost fell down the stairs because I wasn’t paying attention. I had to hold myself back from laughing. Yeah, I laugh at my own clumsiness. Lying in bed, I stared at the rockstar posters on the wall.

"Should I call Lily? Or wait? If I stay quiet, nothing’s going to happen..."

Why is it so hard for her to realize I like her?

A strong urge hit me to text her, ask how the test went, what grade she got...

But I chickened out right away. Coward.

Nelly walked into my room without warning and almost made me drop my phone. I jumped, tripped over the Reeboks scattered on the floor, and she laughed at my misfortune. She stopped when she saw the fall was serious.

I threw myself on the bed and decided to be a little bold. I sent a message to Lily without caring whether she’d read it or not.

Me:

Hey, halfling! You alive?

Did you pass the test?

♡ Lily:

Hey, banished :)

I didn’t pass...

Me:

YOU DIDN’T PASS?

You’re the smartest girl I know! How did you not get a decent grade?

I PROPOSE A REVOLUTION NOW! LET’S PROTEST IN FRONT OF THE SCHOOL!

♡ Lily:

Calm down, Eddie.

LOOK AT ME... oops, don’t look!

I got the highest grade!

And you, what was your grade?

Me:

Oh, I thought you were serious!

So... are you sitting?

Leaning on something that won’t let you fall from where you are, babe?

♡ Lily:

SPEAK UP, BANISHED!

Me:

I ALSO GOT THE HIGHEST GRADE, DAMN IT!

ADIOS, AMIGOS!

♡ Lily:

That’s not a Ramones album.

Me:

You’re smart!

Wait... do you know the album?

♡ Lily:

Of course, Eddie.

What’s your favorite track from Pleasant Dreams?

Me:

We Want The Airwaves!

Impossible for a Ramones fan not to know it.

♡ Lily:

LOVE THAT SONG!

Me:

I have another favorite album: End of the Century.

♡ Lily:

Any of them is good!

Banished, we’re graduated...

THIS IS AWESOME!

---

So, did you see it’s going to be a costume party? Have you picked yours? — I asked.

♡ Lily:

I bought mine yesterday, but I’m not telling you. I prefer to keep it a mystery...

A mystery, huh? But... did you copy from someone who wasn’t me?

♡ Lily:

A little bit dumb, yes... But I got smart studying with you. I used my smarts and alakazam.

I knew you’d do well since we talked.

♡ Lily:

Did you believe me? 😳 Oh, you’re so cute, Munson... I feel like squeezing you until you break.

I know, halfling. What time should I come by to pick you up? I’m excited to see you.

♡ Lily:

Are you punctual? What’s your sign?

Do you believe in zodiac, coquette?

♡ Lily:

Yes, I love astrology...

I’m a Taurus, but I don’t even know what that toothless one means.

♡ Lily:

Rising, not toothless! HAHAHA

Right, Hansol. I got confused, of course, I knew.

♡ Lily:

You can’t lie, Munson!

Okay then... What time should I come by to pick you up?

♡ Lily:

You can pick me up every night.

Oops...

♡ Lily:

Just kidding! I’ll be there at eight in front of my house.

What will you be wearing?

♡ Lily:

I already told you I’m not saying! Surprise.

And how will I find you if it’s dark? Should I throw rocks at your window?

♡ Lily:

No, my dad will hunt you down with a Russian Makarov. You’ll know by the light in my room. Who are you going with?

Probably hitching a ride with my sister in her Maserati.

♡ Lily:

See you later, halfling.

Bye!

♡ Lily:

Don’t be rude, Eddie. Send a little heart? Like this! 💗

No, that’s cheesy...

♡ Lily:

Please? No one will know... Just one? Come on!

Okay! 💗 You make me embarrassed... Did you like my cheesy heart?

A few minutes later, Antonella appears at the door of my room, watching me shake off the dust from my vampire costume with wings.

— What a weird thing... — Nelly comments, raising an eyebrow and crossing her arms.

— Screw it, I’m wearing it! — I shrug, tossing the costume on the bed. — But what about the driving school lessons?

— Oh, the driving test... — She laughs and shakes her head.

— Did you crush the instructor, Nelly? — I tease, grabbing a book from the shelf.

— It would have been a good idea if you were him, little bro. — She smiles like a lovely maniac.

— I’m the master of the four wheels. — I reveal, watching her raise her eyebrows.

She looks away when we see our mom in the hallway.

— Before you go, stop by the pharmacy and buy condoms. I don’t want grandchildren now, got it? — Jane says seriously.

— For what? — I ask sarcastically.

— Elisabeth... Eddie is still a virgin! — Nelly blurts out and runs off.

I run after her and grab her hair.

— Go ahead, spread lies and see what happens to you.

But worse than it was, she was right.

— Why do you think I asked you to go to the pharmacy? — Jane teases, adjusting her glasses.

— EVEN MOM IS MAKING FUN OF YOUR VIRGINITY, EDDIE?! — Nelly laughs.

— GO COOK, MAID! — I grumble, throwing a pillow at her.

I’m not serious, I’m just mad.

— If you keep it up, you’ll lose what you love, including guitars, cameras, makeup, video games, etc. — Jane cuts in, raising her voice.

— BUT SHE STARTED IT! — I point at Nelly, making a face.

— Eddie, behave at the prom. And protect yourself if... — Our mom smiles, mischievously.

— He’s never had sex, Eli! — The pest interrupts, breaking the illusion of Mom having Lily as a daughter-in-law.

— What stops the girl from falling for my curls?

— OH MY GOD, HOW CHEESY! — Nelly huffs, tossing her hair back.

Later, my Dungeons & Dragons costume would probably get a few compliments.

— Our vampire will meet his chosen one at the prom. What species is she? What does she hide? — Nelly mocks, getting a light slap on the arm from Jane.

— Is this what you’re wearing? Stop, I’m going to go blind from all this beauty, boy! — Jane compliments, and my cheeks start to burn.

I thank her for the compliments, but I become obsessed, trying to figure out if they were sincere.

— We’re leaving, Jane. Alright, Mom. — I kiss her cheek and wave from a distance.

She watches us with admiration as we leave.

— Don’t fight, have fun. Love you, pests! — The oldest waves.

— She called us pests? — I ask, frowning.

— As if you weren’t, Eddie?

— What’s wrong? You’re with me. She’s my sister! — I point at her.

The look of disappointment on her face makes everything weirder, and we end up laughing at the nonsense.

---

A while later, Nelly suggests we take a taxi to the graduation, without telling Jane that we won’t be using her car, which is in terrible condition. Antonella’s car is only good for short trips. I agree. It’s better to avoid any delays that could stop us from getting the diploma.

In the taxi, the driver starts a conversation about life stories, but I don’t get too involved. I’m too nervous, the anxiety of getting there early consumes me. Fortunately, we arrive right on time.

As soon as I see Lily among the chairs, I almost jump for joy.

We participate in the ceremony together and, since then, we’ve decided not to separate. But my sister stayed outside.

— Are you nervous, Edds? — Lily asks, looking at my restless hands.

I rub my fingers. The answer is obvious.

— No... Well, I thought I was just going to get the diploma and scream like a crazy person. But I don’t feel like doing that today.

— I was going to, but I want to hold the diploma and talk to little Lily. Say "We made it!"

— I won’t judge. I think I have the same feeling about talking to little Eddie. I just hope my nervous stomach doesn’t get in the way...

— If we could banish nervousness, that would be great. — Lily holds my hand, easing some of the fear.

— You have no idea, but you banish them all...

I keep staring at her, looking like a lovestruck idiot.

— Eddie, you’re cute. Too bad behind the scenes you’re an Asmodeus!

— I’m not... It’s just that, since I met you, you feed my nonsense and give me courage to do absurd things. So don’t blame me.

— We’re even, because we both feed each other's nonsense, and before we know it, it turns into a conflict, right?

— If we were a couple, I think we’d already have everything to be one. — I drop the hint, and she widens her eyes.

Lily falls silent. My heart races.

— Easy now, you’re my friend, the one I care about more than all the planets in the Solar System!

— I like you. I like it when Eddie Munson is wild, rough by nature...

I don’t thank her. My smile speaks for me.

— Eddie, they’re about to call us for the diploma, damn it... — She starts shaking, her legs restless.

I hold her hand, feeling the sweat dripping from my forehead.

— If you faint, do you want me to be the floor? That way, I’ll cushion your fall, halfling. — I joke, and she lets out a small laugh that echoes through the theater.

— That was... romantic!

— You look beautiful, halfling... — I murmur, making her get lost in smiles.

— Really? — She messes with her hair, shyly. — I think you’re falling in love...

— Is there a rule for falling in love with Lily Hansol? — I tease, genuinely curious.

She silences me with her index finger.

The most unique moment of my life happens when they start calling the names. As soon as they pronounce mine, I feel something inside me settle.

The feeling of graduating makes the entire year lighter, not because of lack of faith, but because I’ve conquered the lost years in school.

I like studying, but the faculty preaches that it’s all a competition of intelligence. I never fit in that. Today, proving that I made it this far, I feel a pride I was never allowed to feel.

Of course, the absence of Elisabeth Jane Munson tonight takes away some of the shine. But I have Antonella. If I have my sister, I have everything.

When the ceremony ends, a guy approaches. At first, I think it’s a robbery, but I realize it’s just a photographer.

He captures the moment when I pose for a picture with Lily. Then, I move away to find Jay and the rest of the crew. Before leaving the theater, I cross paths with Lily again.

— Hey, Lily! Did you see our picture? — I say, euphoric, while she talks to a classmate.

She looks and smiles.

— Two little dwarves. How cute, you got glued to me, like a Golden Retriever.

My cheeks heat up. I laugh awkwardly and run my hand through my curls, trying to disguise it.

— You look like my next girlfriend... — I blurt out, unafraid of rejection.

She pushes me, laughing.

— Only in your dreams, Eddie Munson! — She retorts, slapping my chest.

— Hey, that was rude. Why don’t you fight someone your size, shorty? — I tease, measuring her height with my hand.

— Shorty is what’s between your legs!

I widen my eyes, and instead of responding, I feel the urge to grab her. In a hug.

I laugh loudly and put my hand on my chest, pretending to be offended.

— Wow, that was harsh, halfling!

I love when she rejects me, because I know it’s just a facade.

I take a step closer, leaning in to look into her eyes.

— If you were my girlfriend, I’d put poison in your coffee.

She crosses her arms, chin raised, challenging.

— Great tactic to get the inheritance. But I’m not in the coffee club. Now, if it were the hot chocolate club... I’d drink it.

— Modern Romeo and Juliet?

— And what if I want to? — I pause. Then I say:

— You’re that Phil Collins song... "Easy lover. She'll get a hold on you, believe it, like no other, before you know it, you'll be on your knee"...

I sing softly in her ear, smelling her perfume.

— And what if I’m an easy lover, Eddie? — She whispers back, tilting her head, looking me in the eyes.

I shrug and smile.

— In that case, I’m an expert at dealing with irresistible women... — I tease.

She blushes. Gives a light push on my shoulder, laughing. I hold her in a quick hug, feeling my heart race.

---

Linda disappears after a while, saying she needs to see a classmate. With her gone, the graduation ceremony ends before my eyes. Left with no other choice, I head home with Antonella.

When we arrive, Jane has already left for another shift at the clinic. I go to my room, take off the cap and gown, and put on my costume.

In my sister’s car, poor machine, the accumulated dust shows how little she cares for the vehicle. As soon as she removes the cover, a fog forms around it, and I almost choke on the dust that comes loose.

— How long has this old bucket not seen a cloth, Nelly? — I tease, calling her a slob for the state of the car. I always wipe down my van, which used to belong to old Munson.

— Want it? I’ll give it to you! — She jokes, but I know she’s not serious.

— No, that’s junk... I love my van, but I want something more modern when I can.

— So, the graduation was pretty cool. You were drooling over a girl I couldn’t see. Who was she? — she asks, curious.

— The girl who’s going to prom with me, but I’m not stupid enough to reveal her name... — I murmur, keeping the mystery.

I leave the place to smoke and contemplate the night, but I return just in time for the diploma handout.

— And that whole speech to Director Howling? Chickened out, little brother? — Nelly laughs.

— We talk, but we don’t do. You know that! — I defend myself, laughing too.

— I won’t rest until I see your girl. One day you’ll have to introduce her to the family, or are you going to be a bastard, Eddie Munson?

— Take it easy! She’s just a classmate, I’m not going to marry her.

When we open the doors of her car — a red Chevrolet, customized into a baby pink — she releases the handbrake and asks me to buckle up.

The engine roars, she turns on the music, and picks Insight by Depeche Mode.

Shortly after, I feel toxins invade my nervous system, awakening memories of something I haven’t even lived yet. Fleeing from emotions, I give Nelly the address.

— Eddie, do you like the new girl? — She searches for answers in my eyes.

— Maybe, but she would never look at me... — I murmur, making the fear of rejection clear.

— I know our communication is hanging by a thread. But you’re alone, Eddie.

— I’ve got the Hellfire guys... — I frown, confused.

— What if they’re not friends, but acquaintances?

— Wait... Is this jealousy?

— Damn, Eddie! You’re my brother. I think, because I’m older, my job is to protect you and keep you out of trouble! — She sighs.

— I’ve got some blockages, but it’s better not to poke at them.

— You think the solution is to mask the problem forever?

I sigh, agreeing with a slight nod, while we keep driving down the road.

I’m not someone insecure enough to freeze up, but since Demeritus Alanfiero left home, I’m not that confident boy who lived off smiles anymore. I used to be like that when I was a kid. Now I’m confused because I no longer see the sun. I only see black clouds.

— I’ve always been a dreamer with a wild imagination. But now it’s different...

— What do you want? If it’s a dream, go after it. If it’s a woman, don’t stall!

— But what’s the point of helping my mom at home by selling drugs? I think I need to wake up. Make money to be loved.

— Eddie, wealth isn’t synonymous with love. No one’s going to love you just because you have money.

— Look at me now... Outside of Hellfire, I’m a loser, a failure...

— Someone must have had a crush on you. Never thought about that?

— Wait... When you talk about love, are you talking about the girl who’s going to prom with me?

— Yes, Chewbacca! — She cheers, hitting my shoulder.

— We talked in the clearing, and there was an intense kiss...

She listens attentively.

— That’s... strange! — She concludes, keeping her eyes on the road.

— Why do you care so much about who I’m with?

— Sister’s concern. And you’ve got two options: be with someone who only wants pleasure, or be with someone who will laugh at your dumbest joke and choose you because you’ve got a good heart. Which one do you choose, dwarf?

— Let me think! — I pretend to reflect, contemplating the craziest mirages that could entertain me. — Actually, a night of wild sex...

— It was about time for those hormones to say “Hello, we’re here!” — She does a funny voice.

— Okay, master. Teach me a gift as powerful as syrup?

— Syrup? — Nelly stares at me, then smiles as she understands the reference.

— Yes, quick fix!

I’ve never seen a woman as confused as she is now.

— And Quinn? Was it just a crush?

The almost affirmation makes me burst into laughter.

— Quinn doesn’t leave me alone... But in a good way? She lives inside me.

— HOW DOES SOMEONE NOT LEAVE YOU ALONE IN A GOOD WAY?! — Nelly widens her eyes, shaking her head, gesturing as if trying to process the information.

— She’d definitely trade me for Carver! — I grumble, restless in my seat.

She rolls her eyes.

— Ask Jamie for some flirting tactics. Isn’t he Howling’s player?

— I’ve got more attitude than he does. Jamie isn’t that handsome, Hellfire player you think he is! — Irritation rises, and I lightly tap the steering wheel.

— Yeah, you’re the Hellfire heartthrob, Eddie. Just because you’re the pack leader. — She raises an eyebrow, as if just realizing that.

•••

— Fine! I’m not talking about sex, you’re my sister, man... — I mutter, scratching my neck and turning my gaze to the window.

— It’s not a taboo! — She gestures as if trying to push an idea at me.

— Is there salvation for a dwarf who got lost in the dungeons? — I joke, trying to lighten the mood.

— Pick a crazy one and take a risk, Eddie. — Her mischievous smile lights up her face.

---

— Do you remember the night I crashed the car?

— Yeah... What about it? — I ask, curious.

— I lied about being with Jason’s friend. I was with a friend, and... things got hot.

— YOU LITTLE TROUBLEMAKER! — I slap her arm, and she curses a lot, swerving to avoid a dog that almost crosses the street.

— I almost hit a dog! — she exclaims, pale.

I look at the road, but there’s no sign of any collision. I sigh, relaxing a little.

— After the accident... you and she hooked up again? — Curiosity consumes me.

— We were drunk. I didn’t want to kiss her, but she grabbed me in the backseat and... I’m not going to tell you how I turned her down.

— Antonella Munson, you’re a monster! — I joke, but I notice the change in her expression.

— It happened, it’s over. It’s healed. — She looks away, as if trying to distance herself from the past.

Silence settles in, until she says:

— You think no girl would fall for you, Eddie?

I open my mouth but don’t find a response.

— Go after the ‘clearing girl’ before someone else does. — Her tone is serious, as if pushing me in the right direction.

— No chance, Arwen is mine! — I smile, passion growing in my voice.

She stays silent for a moment.

— My advice is: never let the dragons catch you. — Her playful tone makes my chest tighten.

— I don’t know... I’ve always been the outcast of the Munsons. — I murmur, feeling the old sense of inadequacy seep into my words.

— Dude, wake up! — she exclaims, but there’s affection in her gaze.

— Enough of this fake moralism, Nelly! — I retort, in total denial.

Suddenly, she grabs my hands. I’m startled, but it’s not a fear that makes me want to run. I just don’t know how to respond.

— Why don’t you put on some music? — I suggest with a smile, trying to cut the sentimental vibe.

— Can I choose? — Nelly asks, and my cheeks warm.

— Yeah... go ahead.

— What’s the song of your life, Eddie?

— Beauty School, by Deftones. And yours?

— Hm... Snuff, by Slipknot.

We stay silent for a few minutes, but its weight lingers.

— Have you ever thought that Mom still loves old Munson?

— Our parents aren’t coming back, Eddie... — She responds in a cloudy tone.

— I know. But I don’t want to spend the rest of my life hating the old man. That shit eats you up. I want peace.

— Do you want to recover the love they didn’t give you in childhood?

Nelly cuts the topic, turning up the music. For her, it doesn’t matter that Al left us and forgot. For me, it still weighs. It affects me. Even when I see father and son in a movie on TV.

But I pretend, smile... or get pissed off.

— Maybe I’m just an idiot... — I murmur, downcast.

— Oh no, Eddie. One more pity party and I’ll throw you out of the car! — Nelly grits her teeth, but a mischievous smile escapes.

5 notes · View notes

exilynn · 24 days ago

Text

title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Eddie Munson X OC)

˗ˏˋ 𝕸𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖑𝖎𝖘𝖙 (x)ˎˊ˗

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie munson x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Good reading!🫦♥️

- I'm in love with multiple references, there's no point. You'll just have to put up with it hahaa

10. Candy Kiss

Quinn

I feel disoriented with everything I have been feeling, as if I were experiencing a tragedy: the death of our love.

Right now, I'm completely obsessed with the idea of meeting Eddie at the audition, but the thought of being around him again gives me the world of anxiety. I know my hormones are raging, and when we meet, it will be like fire catching straw, like two poles attracting each other.

I know Eddie realized it the moment we collided like stars at Howling High...

He embraced my fears and showed no disdain for my emotional neuroses. That was one of the reasons I knew he was the one for me. But in a complete lapse, I ended up pushing him away when he discovered my disguise!

After the kiss that marked our second farewell, I can't stop thinking about what could have happened if I hadn't run away as if I was escaping a Demobat attack.

Maybe we would have started dating? I don't know. But in the end, it doesn't matter anymore.

There is a dance of darkness that accompanies the melody of this novel, a symphony that, although not composed by Beethoven, embraces the death of a deep love, a duality that borders on the ethereal. At times, I feel immersed in Depeche Mode songs, spilling metaphors that flirt with a certain sadism.

What Eddie and I have is not one of those conventional, boring relationships like so many others that the world tries to sell.

Interestingly, I would love to receive a black rose, plucked from a forgotten forest. Something Eddie would definitely do, trying to declare his love in his crazy way. But I know my imagination runs wild, because love makes us do crazy things.

I wouldn't mind receiving a bouquet of plastic flowers.

In fact, difference attracts me more than luxury, and I have no intention of changing my plans or my ideology because of that.

Maybe it's time to receive a rose plucked from a grave in the cemetery. Weird, but romantic. It's an irony that secretly delights me... Silly to think that I didn't see anything interesting in Eddie's curly hair before - before, it was just a sign of childish affection.

When we are children, we do not understand romantic love. Only the love we feel for our mother, our father or our siblings.

Time, the master that guides our paths, decides our destiny, whether fighting orcs, dracoliches, liches or even red dragons.

Eddie Munson, with his deep dimples, is responsible for drawing smiles on this sad face of mine. To me, Eddie is more splendid than a ray of sunshine sweeping away the darkness.

He is the balm for my eyes, which are afraid of the dark.

Sure, I have a sinful side that still screams for my tainted soul. Not out of stupidity, but out of a burning desire for love. Eddie made me believe in that love again. He likes simple things, just like I do.

I am caught up, seduced by it, as if I were paying attention to the water flowing in rivers, the fluttering of an insect's wings, or the smell of damp earth after the rain stops. These are the gifts of life.

But sometimes, it seems easier to let others read us than to try to understand the complexity within us. Mere particles! Dealing with life when the sun doesn't shine is challenging, especially when it seems like everything around you hates you. But life is more than pain and loss. We must look beyond it.

Thinking about this love, I remember the warm summer days, when everything seems lighter and warmer. Loving Eddie makes me feel like a child again...

Inside, I'm a real mess, a confused soul. Like those sunny summer days, sometimes it's like a winter storm. And Eddie has always accepted that in me. When I think of Eddie, it's hard to admit the fire he lights inside me because, honestly, I feel like I'm freezing. But I don't want to live in this winter anymore...

Loving Eddie is like being high. When I'm around him, my mind travels through wormholes and expanding universes.

But it's never been a secret that Eddie orbits my thoughts like a small planet. I'm Saturn, and he's the rings spinning around me.

Every memory we have made will be etched into the walls of my heart like a tattoo. They say tulips are beautiful, but I have made you my favorite perfume, like the flowers that decorate the plains. You are like a gardenia, Eddie—a sunny, fruity, spicy fragrance that lures me to my resurrection.

In love, you are my master and I am your player, but I am not afraid of the challenges we will face together.

Like a spider weaving its web to capture its prey, so is my connection with you. Cast your charm spell, command me, love me, set me free—because I accept the risk of being with you.

Right now, I'm in the kitchen at Candy Kiss with Max. We have a little break before getting back to work. The bakery's opening hours are strict, but on weekends, the flow of customers is smaller. And luckily, today we had some free time in the afternoon. Honestly, being able to rest is priceless.

The redhead watches me absently while holding a cup of vegan hot chocolate.

— Daydreaming again, Quinn?

To avoid talking about Munson, I make up an excuse.

— Huh? No, I was just thinking about the Grinch ... — I give the worst excuse possible.

—The lonely green creature who lives in the mountains and hates Christmas?

She is curious, like a child waiting for presents. But in reality, the birthday boy is Jesus, and we are the ones who receive the presents.

I wonder why Christmas is seen as such a significant holiday if it's all just capitalism. Do we really believe that an old man with a white beard would climb onto the rooftops to give gifts to everyone? And nobody thinks: what if he falls from there?

Merry Christmases are long gone. Today, I don’t see the magic in Christmas; times have changed, and the magic was lost when we began to lose loved ones. However, we know that things are fleeting.

— The Grinch isn't bad; there are things worth paying attention to. Did you know that?

Max thinks for a moment and then blurts out:

— The 2000 movie? — She makes a disgusted face.

— You liked Christmas...

— I believed in Santa until I was eight. The annoying part is when we find out that presents come from our parents and that Santa Claus is basically a mall employee... — Max concludes.

“You’re the embodiment of evil, Max!” I accuse, pointing at her. She laughs, and I almost choke on a sip of hot chocolate.

— You almost went to the afterlife! — She teases, trying to catch her breath.

— Sorry! My bad...

— You don't need to worry so much. It's just that my heart skipped a beat, Quinn!

— Changing the subject, friend, who was the last guy you dreamed about?

Max asks me the question and without hesitation, a name comes to mind: Eddie Munson.

— I didn't have erotic dreams... — I reply, pursing my lips, clearly lying.

— I never mentioned erotic dreams. But... did you dream about Eddie naked? Don't pretend, Quinn! — She teases before I can answer.

Max keeps staring at me, watching as if trying to penetrate my soul, and it disturbs me.

I'm a woman who fell in love with someone society labels a misfit, the leader of a devil-worshipping club?

Why does the idea of having fallen in love with him torment me?

----

— Just between us... Have you ever dreamed about the two of you making out somewhere private, on a really naughty level? — Max asks with a lewd expression.

Just imagining Munson's touch makes my cheeks burn. I imagine Eddie saying my name as I find myself between his legs. The pleasure would be so intense I would scream—the merging of our souls... I imagine the heat of his mouth. It's like being at the gates of hell.

And when I'm almost there... wake up, Quinn.

— I didn't dream about him, but... — I start to say, trying to defend myself, only to realize that I might be contradicting what I just said.

Did I just admit that I dream about Eddie at night?

— Are you still yelling that weird guy Munson's name? — Max teases.

— My God, you look like Lucy, and I'm Mina Harker. All that's missing is for you to lead me into bad influences... Kama Sutra!

— Never! But I suppose Eddie would be Prince Vlad, and you would be his beloved Mina? — She scoffs. — Come on, Quinn, why do you avoid talking about dirty things with me? You're not even religious! — She holds my hands close to my face, trying to make me look into her eyes.

— Max... are you a lesbian? — I ask innocently. She shakes her head, almost having a heart attack at the misunderstanding.

— Girl, when are you gonna realize Munson is your guy?

Admitting that I have feelings for Eddie makes Max's face light up with a genuine smile. She seems touched to hear about love, as if I no longer see it as a problem, but as a possible victory within my reach.

I remember when Eddie took me dancing. It was like all the pain, fear and insecurity disappeared.

— Yes, Max, when we are children there is no room for pain, fear or anguish... At least not with the same intensity as when we grow up — I say, trying to hold back the tears.

— What's going on with you, Quinn?

— If I told you that I've always been in love with Eddie, since I was little, would you laugh? — I ask, fearing her reaction.

— No, I think it’s adorable that you like him. I hope that weirdo accepts you—if not, my hand will go straight to his face! — Max says through gritted teeth.

I fall silent, lost in memories. Like that time under the tree, when he carved our names into the trunk. He said that when we grew up, he wanted to ask for my hand in marriage, and that would be his promise.

These memories feel ingrained in every particle of my being, as if they were ensuring that I would never forget Eddie and the intensity of the moments we shared. As for my friendship with Max, it is essential, but not perfect. Antonella Munson would make a scene, and people would say:

— What happened to Quinn Josephine?

— She died, what a shame, huh?

— But how?

— Her best friend banned her because Quinn chose the other one!

There was one event that brought us even closer: when Maxine got a job at the same place I worked. Life loves to turn us upside down. Amazing! I never imagined that I would keep in touch with her after that dance where we barely spoke... And, by a twist of fate, our paths crossed again, making her not only a close friend, but also a frequent coworker. Despite the initial obstacles, where our differences caused friction, everything changed when we went through a situation that required empathy.

On a cloudy afternoon, Yan locked us in a warehouse and forced us to apologize. The fight had started with something as simple as disagreeing about the ingredients to make a brownie. At that time, Max had a short temper, while I was more passive. A combination of opposing personalities bound to lead to fights, complete with hair pulling.

— THAT'S NOT HOW IT'S DONE... QUINN, YOU DON'T KNOW ANYTHING! BOSS, COME HERE FOR A SECOND!

When my boss showed up, he tried to analyze the situation maturely, despite usually being someone who tells jokes from joke books.

— Try to have a little patience, she will be your future apprentice, Max... — Yan begged.

I admire your ability to remain incredibly patient, especially in the ridiculous messes we got ourselves into in the beginning.

— Even a turtle is faster than Quinn! — Max complained.

The beginning is not always easy, but it gave us great stories to laugh about later.

— Girl, no one is born knowing everything, you know? Look, teach with love and don't expect anything in return—except maybe a smile or a hug, which are worth more than all the money in the world. — Yan advised, pulling us into a hug.

After the lesson learned from Mr. Yan's scolding, that day when we were locked in the same space, we realized that together we form a better team when we are not each defending ourselves. Now, I see that the clash of personalities brings us closer, precisely because we recognize that people cannot be exactly as we want them to be, and no one has the same heart.

---

I thank my boss, who is such a great man; he has made me a better Quinn. The flashback dissipates like dry leaves blown away by the autumn wind, and I return to the present after my epiphany.

Max continues speaking stubbornly, saying he hates to see me disregard what I have become in the face of the hardships that made me strong. Love hangover—a pain of living under judgment, without the certainty of being loved in the same way I love someone else.

And so we become responsible, creating guilt out of this anguish. It is not our place to listen to the dark side of the force, but we remain servants of ignorance and fear. So why do we pay attention to things we should not care about?

I'm falling apart inside, and my voice barely comes out, muffled by my inner demons.

— I don't want to see you like this, it makes me sad. Can you give me a smile? — Max says, and for a moment, I feel less alone in this abyss I'm sinking into.

— My castle is in ruins, I don't know who I am anymore! Help me... — I admit, starting to cry. The redhead immediately hugs me, sharing my anguish.

— I know time hasn't been very kind to Quinn, but it will pass, okay? — Max stops me from giving a final blow that could hurt my hand against the wall. She wraps me in a hug, and demons don't like that gentle, warm contact.

— Quinn, this is no time for warriors to give up. You can push away the darkness, come on, breathe with me... 1... 2... — She continues to help me through the crisis, and suddenly, a smile appears on the corners of my mouth.

I run towards the outstretched hand, but when I finally reach it, it's no longer there.

Max is the kind of person who is loyal to philosophy, always bringing reflections, and I really admire that about her. As Van Gogh said, there is nothing more truly artistic than loving people. That's what I do.

I can't believe she actually helped me get through the worst breakdown I've ever had. She's the angel in my life. Her and Nelly—because if anyone dares not say the same about Eddie's sister, I'm going to order some wooden pajamas early.

— Stop pouting like a baby, or I'll cry! — She mumbles, teasing.

After we finish our hot chocolate in one go, we get back to work, serving customers who can barely contain their excitement to order more and more. While I’m serving a demanding woman who keeps complaining because she ordered two cinnamon rolls for her spoiled brats—naughty children—I somehow manage to be patient with these abominable creatures.

I'm likely to end up arguing with these kids if I don't keep my cool. I look at the woman with a sweet smile, and as for the kids, I fake a smile that's faker than a beggar asking for money, claiming he won't spend it on alcohol.

I was even kind enough to offer them some sweets on the house, but they looked at me with disgust. And the woman had the audacity to say:

— Excuse me, miss, but we don't accept crumbs.

"SHOVE THAT CRUMB UP YOUR... YOU BITCH!" — I curse mentally, almost throwing myself at the woman's throat.

The children were as ugly as their mother—they looked like ostriches. Just as I finished serving the “royal family,” a man approached and ordered more than a thousand macarons.

— Are you serious? — I ask, surprised, as I start to tidy everything up.

— Miss, the macarons are for my youngest son's birthday...

Overjoyed by the heaven-sent miracle, my boss approaches the man, holding his order pad and immediately writing down everything the customer wants. But before he can leave the counter, the phone rings. I answer it with my calm, charming voice—people love hearing my voice.

— Good afternoon, Candy Kiss Bakery. How can I help you?

— Hello, I would like to order a dessert to go, but I need to know something first...

I'm anxious about the question, it seems a bit suspicious.

— Does the order come with a free attendant?

And that's when the trigger is pulled. I turn redder than a tomato, and the worst part is that my boss is right in front of me. He gives me a strange look and runs to the kitchen. Given the flirting I've just received, I don't know what to say to the man. So I call back, hoping he's still on the line.

— Excuse me? But prank calls are disrespectful. I'm at work, sir!

He laughs. The smart guy laughed.

— Do you have a boyfriend?

— Why? Are you going to ask me out?

— Maybe... Do you have a boyfriend, dear?

- Who are you?

What does this guy want with that distorted voice? If this is a joke, I'm going to file a complaint.

— Tell me your name.

- Because?

— Because I want to know who I'm looking at... near the cash register.

---

I hang up the phone on the smart guy. I'm not in the Panic ! saga. I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself after the momentary stress. Suddenly, Mr. Yan, my boss, grabs my arm as I'm about to serve a customer who keeps raising his hand to get my attention.

— Wait a minute, Quinn. Come here! — He calls me, and when I turn to him, I wait to hear what he has to say.

My heart races as I try to guess if he's going to punish me for being distracted or even fire me for it.

— Girl, you seem miles away today. Want to talk about it?

My heart calms down a little at his words. Mr. Yan is an amazing and understanding boss. I feel a lump in my throat thinking about the phone call and the inappropriate comment. I don't know if I should tell him or how he will react.

— Boss, I... it's just... — I try to find the right words, but I'm nervous. I don't want my boss to worry. — I'm fine, really. I just had some disturbing thoughts today. I'm going to focus on work now!

— Stop with the guilt complex.

— I have to serve a customer who must have dissected the source of his patience because he won't stop waving!

He looks at me with understanding eyes. Suddenly, the impatient customer calls out again, interrupting our conversation. Yan smiles reassuringly before letting me go to the table.

— Go ahead. Just don’t forget one thing: you are kind and dedicated. Recognize your worth, okay?

I take a deep breath and try to stay calm as I walk over to the customer’s desk. Even with all the chaos, I feel relieved to have such a supportive boss like Yan by my side. But suddenly, he calls me back:

— Quinn?!

I retrace my steps as if in reverse mode.

— Yes, boss? — I ask, scratching my neck, trying to hide my concern.

He sighs deeply before speaking:

— I hope you know that if you ever want to open up, no matter the reason... I wanted to apologize if I gave you and Max the wrong impression...

— Oh, glory! Thank you for not being a mean boss.

He looks at me with a worried expression.

I hope life is kind to confused romantics, but for that to happen, I think we would need a miracle from heaven. And no, I'm not talking about a black notebook. That would be one of the most prodigious creations, hypothetically capable of eliminating whoever it wanted. After all, they wouldn't be missed. Maybe the first name to be written in my evil notebook would be Ellen Manchester!

I don't know! My Yin and Yang divide me between human malice and human kindness.

There are times when I wonder if I am truly a bad person or if I simply despise those who do not honor the humanity that resides deep within their soul.

I find myself consumed by the feeling of revenge, like when Ellen humiliated me in front of her friends. In my imagination, I would draw a kukri and split her skull in two.

I avoid thoughts that are driven by retaliation, which take me back to my demon days , when I was on the Ravens gymnastics team and felt smaller than an ant compared to the other girls at Howling High.

But my boss intervenes, pulling me away from these thoughts where I feel so small. Silently, I thank him for his intervention, like a whispered prayer to oneself, a connection to something divine.

— Someone told me you were waiting for your childhood friend... How can I help you at this time?

— I don't think it's about help, boss...

— It's a shame. I don't have a gun license, but if you need me to scare the boy if he breaks your heart... — He insinuates.

— No! Was that a joke?

— I was going to break his teeth. Just kidding. You're neutral. To be honest, Max and I miss smiling Quinn. Where is that girl?

— Do you like my company? Look, was it my mother who told you about my childhood best friend? Damn the gossipy side of a worried mother! — I grumble, frustrated and a little rude with the comparison.

— It wasn't Sandra! Don't blame her if she shared her problems, it's a mother's concern!

Her show of compassion drowned out the terrifying despair, and some of the weight that seemed to weigh down my already tired shoulders was lifted. To my unfortunate realization, I am not the heroine I imagined when I was a girl full of dreams and imagination. Confronting this reality was necessary.

Recognizing this truth is not an abdication of responsibility or care for others, but rather a liberation from the exhausting idea that I can carry the weight of the world alone.

— Look, to be honest, I regret so many things I've done in life. And I think time shouldn't be kind to me... — I murmur, head down, almost foreseeing a tear falling from my left eye, the one that signifies pain.

— You shouldn't think like that, girl. There is forgiveness even for the ugliest sin!

— If it were someone else, maybe I would believe this religious talk. But since it isn't... I ask you not to fill me with false hope... — I try to hold back the torrent of tears, but I'm a real crier, a real sentimentalist.

— Quinn, you can't control everything around you. In life, we don't have a remote control that allows us to go back to the desired scene if we make a mistake. You'll have to deal with the consequences of making a mistake...

— Changes hurt... — I declare, tormented by sweet memories.

— Well, thanks, boss. I really needed to hear that today... — I confess, feeling a weight being lifted off my shoulders.

— You can count on me to support you, Quinn. — He says with a gentle smile.

— Thank you, Mr. Yan. Your words mean a lot to me!

— No matter what happens, we're a team... — He replies with a reassuring smile.

— You're smart enough to avoid matters of the heart, but I won't judge you. Quinn, some loves need a hiatus; life separated them because they weren't mature enough for something serious.

—Your way of speaking is like a tabletop RPG player. Do you play?

----

— I don't play games, but my son loves high fantasy games and the Lord of the Rings saga ! Let me use an example of something I heard him say while acting as game master. "The force is not outside of you, it resides here." — He points to my heart, and I feel like I'm about to release a river of tears.

I smile softly.

— Don't live hostage to your pain. The days are painted with the most beautiful thing of all: love...

— Boss, it looks like you get your quotes from Pinterest! — I tease, making the man blush.

— Tell me, Quinn. Did you find your rings, Saturn?

— Eddie... — His name escapes my lips, murmured like a prayer, as if trying to connect with something deeper.

— There is a mother's heart within each of us, Quinn Josephine.

— Love is still a beautiful place for loving hearts, my dear.

— I thought the valley of love was full of flowers... until I tripped over the thorns.

— Quinn, wake up! Go after the guy! — He encourages me, but that only makes me more anxious.

A speck of dust falls into my eye, but it’s more than that. Uncontrollable tears well up as I find myself drowning in an ocean of emotions before him. I wasn’t crying out of sadness, but because I was captivated by the love stories of someone I admire.

— You are a radiant person, maybe that's why you bother so many people... Shine, girl!

— It's a shame we didn't meet when you were younger... I would marry you — I joke with a cynical smile. He lets go of my shoulders, making a strange face.

He turned red!

— I could be your father! What did you smoke before you came to work!? — He exclaims in denial.

— I don't even smoke! You're like a second father to me, that's why I praise you so much. Sorry for the lack of focus. I'll reflect on the advice you gave me... — I smile, grateful.

— I won't stop you from getting off topic, but make sure you don't forget my advice. I know you—sometimes you're so lost in the clouds that you forget what was said an hour ago. — He reminds me of my inattention.

“Sure, boss!” I salute, and he laughs, leaning back and looking at me with amused judgment.

As I fix my hair to serve a customer, something surprising happens.

The person I see nearly crushed on the sidewalk, patiently waiting to get in, is none other than Eddie Munson, my best friend. He's wearing a spiked jacket and a Saturn blue t-shirt, highlighting his all-American good looks.

I'm dizzy.

Suddenly, my hormones go into overdrive, and my heart starts racing. It’s like I’m under some kind of spell. Of all people, he’s here. But this isn’t a fairy tale—this is reality. I even wonder… Could the annoying guy who flirted with me pretending to be Ghostface really have been Eddie?

He's bold enough for that, always playing pranks to scare people and having fun at others' expense.

My thoughts are a mess. I can't find peace. As soon as Yan opens the door to the customers, Eddie seizes the moment and slips through the crowd — since it's raining heavily!

The smart guy escapes from the horde of people, completely soaked, his damp curls stuck to his face. He gives his hair a quick shake with his hand, and I find myself breathless, as if I'm standing in front of a rock 'n' roll deity.

— Hey, Quinn, don't go feeding your fertile mind with dark romances involving long-haired rockers. You know, the ones with combat boots, leather jackets... That whole "Hey, it's not Halloween, but I want to pull a prank in my love den" vibe?

Eddie slumps into a chair, relaxing in full bad boy mode, running his hand through his hair with a smile so charming even the devil himself would fall in love with him. But there's something different about him. His eye sockets glow, as if he's stolen the light from a shooting star.

When our eyes meet—even from a distance—there’s a connection. He smiles broadly. I wonder if it’s desire or just politeness.

— Quinn? Man, I'm so lucky — I finally found my level one dwarf. — He says sarcastically.

Running away, pretending to be a serial killer, is not on my list of options. I may be cautious, but I'm not foolish enough to pay someone to pretend to work here just to avoid meeting Eddie Munson!

Soon, I am swept away by sweet memories, feeling the familiar taste of childhood. The smell of gummy bears lingers in the air. I don't run—I face my shyness and its old pick-up lines, almost trucker style.

I approach without smiling:

“Are you stalking me, Munson?” My voice comes out harsh, but I can’t help the slight blush rising to my cheeks.

— Wow, calm down there. — He answers, smiling. — God, you've changed since the last time we saw each other...

— Has it changed? — I retort, trying to disguise the effect his words have on me.

— Yeah, you look... different, fuller. By the way, do you still wear that necklace I gave you when we were kids? — His eyes search mine.

I swallow hard, trying to control the emotions that threaten to overflow.

— What are you asking for, Eddie?

— Hmm, I don't know what to order. Will the waitress come with the order? — He teases, completely shameless.

---

— Here in Howling, we're known for our Cherry Pie. I won't tell you the secret ingredient, but... — I begin, trying to steer the conversation in another direction.

— Like that Warrant song? Hmm... I miss my Quinn... — he murmurs, nostalgic.

— Yes, Eddie... Ask for it now!

— Tell me, would you have kissed me more often in my van? — He blurts out, and I quickly cover his mouth with my hand.

— Eddie, shut up! No one needs to know that we... — My heart pounds, interrupting my train of thought.

— I'm not a criminal organ trafficker, I'm just a drug dealer. Come on, you treat me like a delinquent... I just want to steal your heart! — He teases, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions in me.

—And where would we end up if you hypothetically stole my heart?

— We would get to the heart of the matter! You didn't deny that you love me, hobbit. — He teases, full of malice.

He sees Max serving another table and looks surprised.

— Ah, Max just couldn't stay away from you. How long have you been working together?

— It's been a few years, Eddie...

I fall silent at his little joke, but then Eddie’s phone vibrates, pulling me out of my thoughts. He pretends not to hear or care, even shifts its position in his pocket. The phone continues to vibrate, and he pulls it out again, sliding it under the table.

— I have to go. I thought I would have time to eat Cherry Pie, but I have to go to my audition now. — He says, taking my hand.

I feel bad that he has to leave, but at the same time, maybe it's for the best. We can't keep looking at each other like this...

What the hell is happening to me? Explain, sweetheart.

— Since I cannot make my wish... Then tell me, Gandalf, who deceived me with supernatural magic, how are you?

He exploits my weak spot, the nickname he gave me when we sat on those benches in the clearing... He's literally a golden retriever with a sharp tongue.

—You smell the same, and damn, it gets me high... — He murmurs, and I feel adrift.

— My smell? Ugh, I need a shower... — I comment on my dirty apron.

— No, actually... It turns me on... — He says, completely shameless, making me blush.

— What's wrong with you, Eddie?

I bet that's what he's thinking inside: I wanna be yours, damn it! A more aggressive version of I Wanna Be Yours by Arctic Monkeys.

Eddie laughs, covering his mouth shyly.

— It may sound psychotic, but I remember everything. Didn't you use that Blueberry Baby perfume?

— It's nothing, I know the model of your father's van... A GCM G2500, right? Do you still have it?

— Yes. You forgot about Gaucho, but you did your homework, dear. But your birthday... I forgot, a friend of mine also has a birthday in May. Yours is in...

— On the eighteenth. And my father's is on the eighth. Just like you!

— Dude, I need some multivitamin gummies. Don't you think? — He says, guiding my hand to his chest.

Standing close to your heart, listening to its rapid beating, I can't help but feel moved, and a tear runs down my face. Before I can say anything, our eyes meet. I see your pupils dilated, shining like dancing stars.

His eyes display a variety of colors, something that only happens close to me. Away from me, they remain dark, like the abyss of a black hole.

When I take my hand off his chest, he proposes:

— Don't you want to see me sing, play? I'll take you on my Harley... — He looks at his motorcycle, Harvey, parked outside. My father had the exact same one.

Going to the audition would be a dream, but something is stopping me: my job. I can't leave early, and it wouldn't be fair to get rid of my responsibilities.

I decide to be honest with Eddie:

— I'm drowning in orders, there's no way this time...

He stares at me for a moment. He looks like he’s plotting something, resting his hand on his face. But then he reconsiders, and the silence between us grows heavier, thickening the tension in the air.

— I'm missing a C call. Do you know what that is?

— Eddie, there's a pharmacy up the street from the bakery.

He frowns as if trying to regain his composure after forgetting something. I roll my eyes, but I can't help but smile at his ridiculous response.

At that moment, my boss, Mr. Yan, appears out of nowhere, like some kind of hero of the day.

— Aren't you going to the audition, Quinn? Eddie might need his number one fan to applaud him! — He suggests with a mischievous smile.

I look at Eddie, then at Mr. Yan, and finally at Max, who is watching everything with a conspiratorial expression.

— Even you? — I ask, pouting.

He agrees with a smile.

— I already gave you the afternoon off, girl. But Eddie, if you break her heart, you'll have me to deal with!

Eddie raises his hands in surrender.

— I will take care of her like Gollum takes care of the ring, Mr. Yan!

I roll my eyes, but I can't help but laugh at their interaction.

— Okay, looks like I have a free afternoon! I'll go with you, Eddie, before I change my mind and come back

---

After getting permission to leave early, I stand in the kitchen, finishing taking off my apron when Eddie appears in the doorway. Startled, I turn to face him, but before I can say anything, he disappears from my sight. I look around, confused, and suddenly, there he is again—behind me.

— Jesus Christ, Eddie, you almost gave me a heart attack! — I exclaim, placing a hand on my chest.

— Scaring distracted elves is my new hobby, but... are you ready to get out of here, dear? — He asks with a mischievous smile.

— I still need to finish cleaning the kitchen. And the storage room too, Eddie. — I reply, trying to maintain my composure.

— Leave the cleaning for later. Your boss has already given you the green light to escape, the rest can wait. — He says, taking my hand and intertwining our fingers. A gesture so chivalrous that it makes me feel like a foolish, lovesick girl.

My knees go a little weak under Eddie's intense gaze.

— Did you understand what I meant when I said I was lacking vitamin C? — He makes his "flirty" comment again.

You are tripping.

— I think I need a kiss, maybe some vitamin B or K, just saying. — He blinks, biting his lip.

— Don't make me have to call the others...

— Just a... little bit of you. Quinn, I'm weak! — He whines in a baby voice, but I silence him with my index finger.

—Save your anxiety and energy for tonight's show, Munson. — I push his face away.

I leave the kitchen and wait for him. Eddie opens the curtains, throwing them dramatically into the air.

— Come on, orc! — He looks at me as if I were the center of his entire universe, his eyes don't waver until I speak.

In a few minutes, we left the bakery.

When we pull up to the street and stop next to his bike, I notice Eddie’s eyes aren’t on me. He hands me his helmet like he doesn’t want to let it go. I put it on, and he waits for me to fasten the buckle under my chin. When I’m done, he puts the helmet on, and I climb into the backseat.

— Hold on tight, elf.

I wrap my arms around him and as I touch his belly, I feel his defined abs. It's strange that I'm attracted to your body, at least now. Before heading towards the avenue that leads to the audition location, we took another path, away from everything. Eddie explains that he wants to be alone with me, so we stop on a nearly deserted street. As soon as we get off his bike, he makes me sit on the grass.

I reach out and grab his arm.

— Tell me, does your heart beat normally when I'm here?

— Of course, otherwise I would be dead! — Eddie smiles, amused by my reaction.

— Oh, you don't need to get nervous and attack me with sticks and stones.

I take a deep breath, trying to regain the composure he effortlessly destroys.

— I told you, you could have picked a better pick-up line, Munson!

I look away, still a little embarrassed.

— You're annoying, you know that? — I mutter through my teeth.

— I've been trying to make you laugh ever since we were kids. Life is too short to take it so seriously, Quinn...

— Okay, sorry, but sometimes you go a little overboard with love stuff...

He puts his hand over his heart, pretending to be offended.

— Do you think I'm dramatic?

I roll my eyes, but I can't help but chuckle.

— Yeah, like, you have a Tommy Lee from Mötley Crüe vibe...

— Girls love rock stars, don't they?

—Seriously, Eddie, can you go a second without dropping a cheap trucker pick-up line?

His response made me laugh a lot, but he never lied about my criticisms.

— What? Loving you was never humiliating... Don't you love me, Quinn? — He asks me to be honest, to stop being afraid of what I feel.

— I'm not good with feelings like you!

— What if love didn't hurt anymore, loving someone? I mean, there's so much to explore. No wonder space is full of mysteries too...

I fall silent, completely overwhelmed by the thought of diving into romance. No one has ever appreciated me as much as Eddie, not the way he appreciates me.

Eddie hears the anxiety in my voice as we reach the dressing room. I sit on the couch, swinging my legs.

— Do you really think I went to Candy Kiss just to say "Hi, friend"? — Eddie asks, being sincere, and this time, I can't deny it anymore.

— Didn’t you feel guilty or sorry for me? — I ask.

He shakes his head, holding my hand.

— Pity? Only for this poor heart here. — He says, in that stupid way that makes me feel insecure.

“Did you smoke weed?” I ask, not like I want to argue.

— It's not all about smoking Mary Jane. I really like you, Quinn. — He answers firmly.

— Since when? — I ask, curious.

— Ever since I saw you. And it started when we spent that night at my uncle Wayne's strawberry farm...

“When we were kids?” I raise an eyebrow, feeling warmth spread through my chest.

— Eddie, children don't know how to love romantically! — I conclude, not entirely confident.

— I don't know! What matters is that I've loved you since we were little...

— When you wet the bed and were bald? — I tease, laughing.

— You don't like bald guys? I'm not bald anymore, I have long, cool hair now, tattoos and everything! — He answers, convincing himself a little, with a smug tone.

— Love is crazy. And as crazy as I am... — I say, not knowing how to finish.

— Okay, consider it weird because of the age difference, but screw all that. It's not about looking at us as children. As Henderson once told me, don't run away from love. My father taught me to hate, but you were love.

— I still don't understand how I, being older... Oh, forget it, I can't think straight. But why did you treat me rudely if you liked me? What's the logic behind that?

— I was never rude, and if I was, it wasn't intentional. I wanted to vent my frustrations on you. You've been my friend for years, Quinn! — He answers sincerely.

— That's so stupid. Being rude was never your thing, that's not you.

Eddie confesses, his tone harsh and unguarded.

— I learned to listen to my heart, but I got stuck in anger and never realized it wasn't working. It was always supposed to be you!

— I've already forgiven you. Male logic is absurd. I just don't understand why you were interested in Linda Hansol when it was me all along...

— I'm not won over by breasts and ass. Intelligence is superior, and you had all of that when you were Lily!

— Oh, right, you're the leader of the RPG club for manly nerds — hey, boys? — I tease.

— Stray dogs?

— Huh? What? — I grimace, confused.

— I don't understand why you keep saying that I'm the leader of Hellfire... — He mutters, confused.

— What does "stray dog" mean in English? — I ask, curious.

— Stray dog means someone who acts or behaves as if they belong to another culture or subculture just to gain the approval of others.

— Thanks, human encyclopedia! — I joke.

— And you still haven't explained anything about my love for RPG...

— Boy, if I'm learning, why the hell would I judge? I mentioned you being the leader of Hellfire because why would you look at a bullied cheerleader? — I demand an explanation.

— The explanation is... it happened naturally...

—That doesn't explain much, Eddie.

I'm not being arrogant, but I can't understand why someone so different from me would catch your eye.

— You keep mocking and judging me, so I feel the need to defend myself because I'm too emotional! — He vents.

— You're a wild animal, like... a raccoon. But I'm not going to lie, you're attractive because you're a nerd...

Eddie is silent.

— Did you just call me an attractive nerd? — He asks, but a mischievous smile appears on his face.

— I'm not talking about those nerds who talk about quantum physics! — I explain, and he just watches me intently.

— Quinn, do you fall for nerds like me?

— It's not about labels. The guy just has to be himself and not irritate people with what he likes...

— Interesting analogy, Klung.

— What? — I feel offended, not knowing if he’s being ironic.

—But if that's the case, well, I'm the real deal. I don't go around rubbing my knowledge in idiots' faces.

— Your deep voice just went up four octaves. Are you nervous? — I can hear your tone.

— Sh... Shut up. — He silences me by placing his index finger on my lips.

— Great, Eddie. If I keep quiet, I won't say anything else, and you'll end up talking to the walls!

— I don't want you to be silent... I want to hear you speak, I want to know what that beautiful mind of yours is thinking...

Eddie is a sea of contradictions. One moment he wants you to talk, the next he wants you to be silent.

—Now that I see it, why are there candles in a dressing room? Have you become religious? — I ask, trying to stay away from matters of the heart, but condemning myself every second.

Eddie stares at me, never looking away.

— It's something more intimate. Don't you see? I want you to see how much of a blessing it is to have you here.

— I don't know... I have a sneaking feeling this is a trap. You, with scented candles, a warm room and no coat... — I observe, and Eddie's plan almost goes down the drain.

— Maybe I set you up. And what about not wearing a jacket, huh? — He would never miss a chance to tease me.

— Nothing! — I press my hands on my knees, trying to mask the tension. — Do you want to tell me something? Because, well, you followed me to my job at Candy Kiss... What do you want?

He moves a little closer.

— I know I wasn't always the best friend to you. I was immature, cold... but I was a misfit kid!

That's not what I wanted him to understand.

— I complain about how badly we fought at graduation, but not about who you are.

— I guess the fact that you came back after so long made me feel uneasy... It made me angry. I felt... abandoned, I guess...

— Eddie, my father had to leave because there were no job opportunities available, and a lot has happened since then.

Eddie nods, biting his nails.

— Quinn, I know your family was going through a difficult time, and your father had to leave the city in search of better opportunities...

— You see, I was just a little girl, but I can't forgive Hopper for trusting Crisven Carver. When he and your uncle were friends, Jason's father said your uncle was a drunk and that I should stay away from you. — I blurt out, without thinking.

— That son of a bitch... He's always been an asshole! — Eddie exclaims, gritting his teeth.

— As does your son. — I agree with your animosity.

— If your father was protective, why did he let Jason get close to you, Quinn? — I don't understand either.

— My father and Crisven... became friends when they worked together. You know Jim Hopper's good heart. Which sucks... It hurt to come back older and not be allowed to see you...

I'm sorry, almost crying.

— Quinn, I know... It was horrible. I thought you were gone forever. I spent days and nights thinking about you, missing you...

— I saw you from afar... You didn't have short hair anymore, your hair was curly, you wore an AC/DC t-shirt and you were always singing Touch Too Much , right? — I ask, remembering the few times I saw Eddie around.

— Back then, I saw you. I wasn't crazy! I didn't know you were that redhead from the Ravens! — Memories flood him.

— I hid... I couldn't even try to get close. But... I saw Jason bothering you!

Eddie's smile disappears.

— He and I used to be kind of close, but it's a long story...

Eddie would never forget everything Jason put in his head.

—What did he do to you, Eddie? — I ask empathetically.

He sighs, his gaze lost in memories of where he never felt so alone...

— He called me a nerd, a freak, dirty... he said Mountain Park was trash. The only peace I had was during school holidays...

— I think the first time you faced Jason was in the cafeteria when you made that Dio sign, right? — I ask, looking at the jacket next to me.

— But, Quinn, it wasn't Ronnie James Dio who created that heavy metal symbol. That gesture was my little way of telling that idiot that he didn't scare me...

—Wasn't it? I was in the cafeteria, eating, reading a book, and I saw it all. I've never laughed so much at how pale that guy looked!

— I wasted my time paying attention to that bastard Jason when I could have been losing myself looking at the girl who loved books. — He confesses, his gaze full of passion.

— We were from different worlds, but this was the second time I fell in love with you. — I reveal, catching the rocker off guard.

— Weren't you in love with me before you went to Brazil? — Confusion takes over him.

— Once, when we were kids. The second time, when I came back disguised as Howling, Eddie!

— Oh, right! You could have fallen in love with me more times if you wanted to. — He concludes, thoughtfully.

— I hate that I buried my feelings for you... That was the worst thing I've ever done...

— Eddie... We could have... kicked those conformists' asses and stayed together!

— It's the past. I'm here, and so are you... — He lets out a nervous laugh.

— Don't you think Carver's dark magic played a role in keeping us apart?

—I just hope he didn't make a deal with some bastard Lich!

— Why do you seem so interested in RPG campaigns now? — He looks at me, smiling.

—I'm watching Critical Role . — I admit, and his eyes shine like diamonds.

— Me too! It's my favorite nerd podcast!

— I've been dragged to your dungeons, Munson. Didn't you notice? — Perfect, now all that's left is to seal the confessions with a kiss and some goat's blood!

— Why does this feel hot? — He licks his lips.

— I will show you the secret traps, the dangerous enemies, the hidden adventures.

—I wasn't thinking about anything healthy right now. Especially in this place, with the lights, the candles... it looks like a tavern...

— Dim lights, aromas, and all the mysticism of a medieval tavern. Exciting, isn't it? — Eddie lets out a low groan.

— Maybe I already knew your dragons, but now they are the dragons of love.

— Did you know my love dragons? — He is completely immersed in the elven vibe. — You are right, you tamed them with your loving heart. A true dragon tamer?

— What a strange name. But I'll accept it, if I was crowned by Eddie Munson, the dungeon master!

— Ah, good to know that you accept this title of dragon tamer, bestowed upon you by me, the dungeon master. You really know how to win my heart, don't you?

---

I start to smile.

— The dungeon master is weak. Damn, I missed that laugh! — He admits, biting his lip.

I hide my laughter with my hands.

— So cute. Don't try to hide that smile, my little dragon tamer.

— Eddie, don't call me that, or I'll grab you and never let go!

— Okay, I'll stop calling you that. But I can't resist the sight of those adorable cheeks!

Eddie insists on keeping his hand on my face.

— Don't do that! — I panic.

— Why not? Now that we're on this adventure, don't you want to face my dragons? — He uses my own argument against me.

— I'm just trying to hold your hands. I want to see your face. Let me see... It's been years since I've looked at you...

Eddie makes me look at him.

— Ah, that's much better. Now I can see your beautiful face, those sandy brown eyes.

— Don't look at me like that, you'll ruin my disguise of indifference...

— Why can't I look at you? Don't go away. — He almost begs me not to hide anymore.

— No, pretend to be blind and don't look! — I improvise.

He closes his eyes, playing along, and I move closer. Eddie can smell me, our faces so close.

— Hey, hey, wait a minute, were you... were you trying to kiss me? — Eddie jumps as he opens his eyes.

— No... — I express my embarrassment, rubbing my arm.

— It's okay if you want to kiss me. — He teases with a mischievous smile.

He corners me against the wall.

— No, kisses lead to arousal, and arousal leads to babies!

— And... what if we're already too involved? — He retorts, running his tongue over the roof of his mouth.

Eddie looks into my eyes, startled, a mixture of confusion and embarrassment.

— I was... so immersed in it that I felt my soul tremble, I...

I approach Eddie slowly.

— And you... what? — He asks, his voice trembling.

— I love you... — I put my pride aside, confessing to him.

My words hit Eddie, and he felt his heart soften like pudding. But it left him breathless for a moment.

— Do you... love me? — He murmurs, as if he can't believe what he's hearing. — I love you too... — Eddie confesses, his voice a little shaky.

— I was going to ask you out, but that would be crazy. But if you want, we can do it another time. — I reveal, hurriedly.

— It would be... yeah, it would be crazy... — He agrees, although the fire still burns inside him. He confesses with a hoarse and passionate voice.

— I'll stay here with you until they call you for the audition. But after that, I'm leaving. Okay? — I propose a way out.

— Okay, we have about two and a half hours... — He explains in a soft voice, looking at me tenderly.

— We can talk about everything we didn't say before...

— What do you want to talk about?

— Hmm, Eddie, what's the most inappropriate place you've ever imagined making love to someone? — I ask, brimming with curiosity.

— Tough question, honey... I imagine there are some inappropriate places... — He mumbles, his hands resting on his thighs. — Maybe inside my van?

— No! I mean something really weird...

— Okay... but please, it has to be vulgar... — He lets out a low sigh before smiling. — Hm, a funeral? — He makes a crazy suggestion.

— My God, your imagination flies higher than a dragon. Wait, I meant dark! — I almost pissed myself laughing.

— Oh, baby. So... a grave?

— I've seen worse!

— A tomb, surrounded by pure silence and darkness... but just the two of us, with me inside you. Hm? — He adds, his voice getting deeper.

— Jesus Christ, Munson! — I exclaim in shock.

— You challenged me. So don't be surprised. My mind can go to even darker places...

— Poor virgin souls watching us fucking like animals...

— You know what would be even darker, baby? — I'm afraid of his answer.

— You're putting demons into someone, and there's a soul saying, 'Oh, this feels so good, too bad I died a virgin'? — I make air quotes.

—That would be sad... — He deepens his voice. —But what if it wasn't in a cemetery, but in hell itself?

— What do you mean? — I laugh, nervously.

— Let's just say I wouldn't mind being condemned to hell if it meant being able to have you for all eternity... — Eddie states with certainty.

— Don't you ever miss a beat, Munson? — I push him away.

— You know how good I am at responding to provocations!

— Actually, I didn't know, I only knew your most innocent side. It's cool that you didn't even judge me for bringing a cemetery...

— I won't judge any of your deliciously depraved desires, baby... — He murmurs with an amused tone. — Because I'm sure mine are even more indecent...

— Tell me all of them, rock star.

— They can be a little scary, and you might shy away...

— The full list. — I demand, authoritatively.

— Alright then... — He murmurs, imagining all the wild things he could do to the redhead. — Do you want me to start with the less depraved ones or the darker ones?

— It's your decision, Munson...

— I have a fantasy about you in a confessional...

—And how would we do that...? I mean, isn't that a little risky? — I show my realistic side.

— Honey, for that we need a plan... But I think it's possible, with a little deception...

— Ah... — I grimace. — I don't know if it would be fun to be caught having sex in a confessional!

— Maybe, at least until the priest notices... — Eddie lets out a harsh groan.

I try not to give in to their noises.

— What's so funny? — He asks, laughing. — Do you think I would have the audacity to do that?

— You would have all kinds of audacity, all kinds of depravity!

— Sure, I'm a man full of depraved desires...

The rocker wants to continue the quiz game.

— And you, don't you have any strange questions for me?

I decide to ignore decency.

— Well, I have a lot of weird questions for you... Can you answer them all? — Eddie runs his fingers over my lips.

— I'm going, I have no secrets. — I bite my lip, nervous.

Eddie places his hand on my thigh, sending shivers down my spine.

- All is well then...

I nod silently.

— Have you ever had any dirty fantasies about me? — He asks, and my emotions collide.

—Oh, I... I never thought of anything other than a cemetery. — I admit, eagerly.

— Nothing else? You're so repressed... — Eddie's voice hits my ego.

---

— Wow, this is a trial? You think you're a judge?

— It's just a fact... you're tense in certain ways!

I pout.

— Are you mad at me for telling the truth, Quinn? — He knows exactly where to hit me.

— You don't even know how to flirt! — I accuse, but then I falter.

— Darling, don't mistake my depravity for a lack of charm!

—But it's just... I... — I struggle to find the right words.

— I'm waiting for the "but".

I stare at him.

— Okay, I'm a pervert... I've imagined having sex with you in the van, BDSM in your room, in public... maybe anywhere! — I expose my most intimate thoughts, pouring them all out on him.

The rocker gets tense.

— Fuck... — He mutters, recent memories and his own fantasies flashing through his mind.

— Too cliché? — I ask, tilting my head.

— No... it's hot...

— You hated the things I revealed, you can tell me! — I exclaim, hoping he would react as I imagined, but this isn't a fanfic.

— Why would I hate that? — He didn't hate it for a second. Or did he think my fantasies were silly.

— You're looking at me weird!

— It's not that, Quinn... I'm looking at you like that because your depraved side drives me crazy. I don't know... it's just that you're... — Eddie tries to find the right word.

“What, Munson?” I say, running my fingers down his arms.

— You're so important to me... I don't want to lose you by saying something that will push you away... — Eddie's voice almost wavers.

— I've been with you since my innocent days, and maybe you've seen the worst of me... but you stayed!

— Yes, I did... but it's because...

Eddie loses track of what he was about to say.

— Say, Eddie, I need to hear from you.

— I... I love you! — The declaration comes out like a broken record, but I find it completely adorable.

— Lucky me, and you, because I love you too... And I think we could work out, maybe? — I finally accept my feelings.

— Do you... really love me? — He asks, caressing me, trying to believe that this is real.

— I've given you many signs that I love you, Eddie.

Eddie looks into my eyes, seeking confirmation.

— I love you, Eddie Munson. You're so oblivious that you didn't see it before. I'm scared, but you make me braver!

— We both know it's normal to be afraid, Quinn... it's a natural defense... And even if I don't deserve you, I won't let you go!

— Hey, what's your real fear about me and you?

He clears his throat.

---

— I'm afraid of losing you, Red. I'm afraid of dying tomorrow and never knowing your soul in a different way.

I smile, enchanted by Eddie's sweet words.

— Are you serious? Have you never been taken by another girl? — I ask, trying to be sweet and understanding.

— There has never been another, Quinn. No girl has ever touched my heart or made me let go of my fears...

—Look, I'm not perfect, Munson—I admit, feeling a little insecure.

— For me, you are perfect. Even if it is an illusion, because no one is.

— Not even rich girls? Are you sure, Eddie?

— Physical beauty doesn't impress me right away. True beauty lies in your soul... and in that kind heart. — He places his hand on my chest.

— Beauty is not in the eye of the beholder, but in the heart that feels it. This is something I used to write with you in mind... and now you're saying this?

Your heart pounds in your chest.

— Did you write this... thinking of me?

— Yes, I did! — I reveal my secret, making Eddie smile like never before.

— You have to be mine. You just have to be. I'm going to make it happen, Quinn.

— My heart was already yours, you know? You were the one who gave me wings... before, I was like that legend of Icarus... but you gave me my wings back!

— Quinn, I want to see you with wings, flying higher. I want to give you freedom, be your strength, your guide on adventures...

— Maiden's Flight of Icarus reminds me of us... Me, you. — I confess, insecure, but with my heart racing.

— Yes, Quinn. We were from different worlds, something beyond my reach...

— We were together and we didn't even know it... in our thoughts, in our fears... — I hold your hands.

— Two hearts trying to meet, but distance separated them... But now, we are here, face to face!

— Sorry for coming back and messing with your head... I couldn't stay away, I didn't want to leave the city... without you...

— I don't blame you. You chose to stay with me and fight for my love.

— I was scared... so scared of messing it up. — She explains.

Eddie runs his fingers along the edges of my face, admiring every inch of me.

— Baby, you didn't ruin anything! I'm here, you're here... What else do we need?

— How can you still love me? I broke your heart, Edward! At graduation, I ran away and disappointed you!

I almost cry, but I hold myself back.

— It wasn't disappointment. My heart still beats for you. There's no more hate, Quinn!

At that moment, I feel ashamed of my reckless actions.

— Forgive me, I was just a foolish girl, so in love I did everything for it!

— Stay with me, today, tomorrow, forever. That's all I ask.

Eddie hugs me, caresses my back and pulls me closer.

— Shall we try, just try, to unify this soul bond? — I offer my heart, hoping he will awaken it.

— I will love you until I stop breathing. I swear eternal love to you.

— Now I'm confused... Who asked who out first? — I smile, feeling anxious. We both fall into thought.

— We both did, actually. I was about to, but you won me over again! — He protests playfully.

— I didn't win. If you still want to ask, I agree...

— So... — He murmurs calmly. — I'm going to ask you, the right way this time... — He bites his lip, nervous. — Quinn Josephine Klung, will you officially be my girlfriend?

The question sends a shiver down my spine, but not a shiver of anxiety. On the contrary, it revives my previously forgotten soul, cold as winter.

— I... I'm... — I blink away the tears, overcome with emotion.

— It's okay. The "yes" in your eyes and your nod are enough. Just... stay in my life and have adventures with me, and... I'll be happy! — Eddie says between pauses, his voice seductive and full of passion.

I look down.

— Don't be shy, darling? — Eddie asks tenderly, lifting my chin with his thumb and looking at me passionately.

— I'm also terrible at showing affection... — He sighs, trying to control his emotions. — But with you, it's different. You make me feel... things I never knew I could feel.

— Are you willing to seal a soul pact? I swear there will be no sacrifices in this ritual, I promise!

That's just how I am, good at seizing moments with crazy analogies, but Eddie is a sucker for crazy things.

“A soul pact?” He asks, considering the proposal. “No sacrifice? Sounds tempting.” He whispers. “Well… I’m totally on board, Green Witch!”

— Join the divine with me? This is the cult of our love. — I expose my love in a unique and authentic way.

— Quinn, I want you, I need you, like a heart needs a beat to keep going. I need you like a human needs the sun, like the night needs the moon. Please love me?

I smile at Eddie's almost poetry. Honestly, if Shakespeare were alive, he would envy his words.

The rocker crashes his lips against mine, our tongues dancing. But that’s not even the best part. I’ve never felt such peace in my soul. Eddie brought a kind of peace that no one else could hope to achieve, deep down inside me.

— I will always worship you, only you. You are my divine, Edward Munson, and I will be yours forever.

Eddie pulls away from the kiss, holding his breath in that moment as he takes a deep breath.

— I worship every cell of myself when I'm with you... — He says, holding his breath. — I never want anyone else to receive your adoration but me... You are only mine...

Eddie whispers against my lips, followed by a sigh. The most beautiful declaration of love I've ever felt, kissing my soul.

Wow, this final chapterrr🦇🤎 Now you can be together forever, yes or not

Eddie like: "Yeah, finally, my love story, God, Thanks!"

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exilynn · 27 days ago

Text

title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Eddie Munson X OC)

synopsis:

“They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?”

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon’s

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie munson x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Eddie Munson/Original Female Character(s), Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Angst, Slow Burn, Sexual Tension, Drug Use, Childhood Trauma, Hurt/Comfort, Sadness/Grief, Childhood Friends, Original Character(s), Bullying, Eddie Munson Needs a Hug, Protective Eddie Munson, Background Hellfire Club (Stranger Things), Basketball Eddie Munson, Explicit Sexual Content, Eddie Munson has a Crush on Quinn Josephine, So many references 80’s time, Eddie Munson Has a Sister, Eddie Munson moms Headcanon, Past Jason Carver/Eddie Munson, Alternate Universe - Different First Meeting, Antonella Munson, Corroded Coffin Concert (Stranger Things), Minor Eddie Munson/Original Character(s), Adopted Sibling Relationship, Quinn Josephine has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Loss of Virginity, Good Friend Dustin Henderson, A rewrite of Stranger Things for Eddie Non-canon Love Circle, Alternate Universe - No Upside Down (Stranger Things), Protective Parent Jim “Chief” Hopper, Denial of Feelings, Good Friend Eddie Munson, Character Death, Smoking, Eddie Munson Lives, Blow Jobs, Eddie Munson is an ABBA Fan, Eddie Munson is Whipped, Eddie is a simp but just for Quinn, Eddie Munson has Golden Retriever Energy, Eddie Munson Has a Praise Kink, Eddie Munson Has a Daddy Kink, Eddie Munson Has a Breeding Kink, Degradation Kink, Sexual Overstimulation, Eddie Munson is an Rob Zombie Fan

Attention: This chapter brings the PLOT TWIST OF THIS AU!! 🔥🔥 so, it can be quite long...

Good reading! 🫦♥️

8. The BLUE In You

There’s a barrier in my life that needs to be resolved as soon as possible: I need to choose between staying on the basketball team or following my dream of becoming a great musical genius.

Time is running out. Jack’s gym classes will start when school is almost over.

It was the final verdict: I would never train for basketball again. It was never for me. I would tell Jamie, Stiles, and Takamori, but only after the winter dance, so I wouldn’t disappoint them before the party.

I knew that, somehow, the reason for my choice would eventually be discovered.

After a long explanation about Lucas’s situation, Jamie and Hunter told me not to worry about the dance.

They would take the little Asian kid home, safe and sound.

Jesus really has been praying for me. And I’m not even religious, but someone’s watching over me, putting good people in my path...

— Hey, Eddie. You really are going to stop training? — Stiles asks, with regret.

I stay silent. That moment when something you once loved catches you off guard. I froze. I didn’t know what to say. But no one needs to justify their choices. When it comes to brotherhood, friends, you can explain.

How didn’t they notice I stopped going to practice? I have no idea. But in Howling, rumors spread faster than in a big city.

— Who was the funny guy who told? — I ask seriously, looking for the traitor.

— Doesn’t matter. Damn, we lost you without knowing, Munson! — Jamie says, his voice breaking.

— I was going to tell you, but you know how things are... — My voice almost cracks. — Coach Starv supported me. He knows music is my fuel!

Before I could continue, I’m hugged by Jamie, an unexpected act from him, since he’s not the affectionate type.

The warm touch of the hug and the tears catch me by surprise. We almost cried right there.

Jamie thinks crying would weaken him. Well, so do I, but let’s be honest...

I look at my friends. They’ve really grown up.

— We’re mature enough to understand that when the heart calls, you have to listen. Everyone has choices, and no one can control time or the fate of friends. That’s selfish! No matter where you are, Eddie, you’ll always be one of us... — Stiles murmurs, his face covered in tears.

— My intention was never to be the captain of the team. You know that.

Music has always been my passion. It’s no wonder I’ve composed several songs, but I’ve never recorded a demo.

— We’re going to miss the long-haired guy who could dunk better than Carver!

— Dunking was never my thing; that’s what my dad wanted for me. I passed the captain responsibility onto you, blondie! — I say, giving Stiles a slap on the back.

— Eddie, I can’t accept taking your place like this. Your authority is eternal! — Jamie grumbles, refusing what I gave him.

— Enough with the crying! Accept the position already and stop resisting! — I hit his chest hard, irritated.

— You were our Jordan of Howling... — Stiles says, his eyes teary, showing the sadness of the loss.

Does the kid see me as a father figure? And do I seem like an uncle to them?

— TIGERS! — Jamie shouts, and the memory of our victories and moments together takes over me.

I could be ending my captaincy, but I’d write one more chapter in my story.

I never imagined I would or had protection in life. Lucas and Jamie never left me alone. If they saw me by myself in the cafeteria, they made a point of bothering me.

And, when they fought behind the school, they defended me. Until today, I’m the one defending them.

Actually, I owe my life to them.

I never forget the times I had nothing to eat and they’d share a sandwich with me.

After the group hug, I realized my departure would mark all the guys, like an indelible tattoo.

When the moment of farewell passed, I went back to Lily and Max. Lucas, curious, didn’t seem as distant from me now. Max smiled when she saw me coming.

— What did I miss? — She asks, with a look of someone trying to understand what happened.

— Eddie, where’d you leave your drunk friend? — Max asks, worried about Lucas.

— Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. I left him with my closest friends from school, from the TIGERS team, redhead.

— I hope he’ll be okay... I really hope so. — Max murmurs, thoughtful, looking disconnected.

— He’s like that. Don’t be scared, Lucas looks like he’s going to die from drinking, but then he recovers and jumps around like a gazelle! — I reply with a mischievous laugh.

A silence falls between us.

— So, redhead, it may be a random question, but where were you born? — I ask, noticing her accent.

— I was born in Berlin, but something unexpected happened, and I had to move to Howling with my aunt, who raised me. I like small towns... — She explains, and for a moment, I find myself reflecting on stopping asking questions.

---

— Do you like fried chicken?

— Yes! I’m a fan of fast food chains. And you, Eddie? — Max licks the corner of her lip.

Time passes, and I realize that Lily has been left out of the conversation, waiting for me to include her. I decide to pull something out for her before our connection fades.

— And you, level one dwarf? — I look at Linda, who is watching the redhead with a strange expression.

— Tell your story, redhead, there must be something interesting there! — I joke, giving her a slight push.

— Not much. I’m Brazilian, have been living in Howling for a while... My dad lost his job in Brazil, and we had to leave... — She reveals something I wasn’t expecting to hear so soon.

Why doesn’t this story convince me?

— We have a foreigner among us? — Max smiles, amused.

— Maybe! I like it here, it comforts me... I have good memories of a childhood friend... — She looks at me, with no disguise.

Ah, so you’re talking about happy memories?

I stare at her, something seems about to change. Or maybe she knows there’s nowhere left to run.

Now, better stay calm. Max has no ties to Quinn and me. But when we’re alone, Quinn... be prepared.

The redhead breaks the silence, looking at us carefully.

— Got any stories, Eddie? — She analyzes me.

Her look makes it seem like, just by looking at me, she’ll uncover all my secrets.

— My life isn’t a Tolkien book. If I were to tell, you’d wake up sad tomorrow. — I shrug.

— Try to summarize a bit? — Lily suggests, with sudden interest.

I roll my eyes and begin.

— My dad was born in Memphis, but he has an Italian lineage. He was adopted by an Italian-American couple... My mom, Jane Elisabeth, is Brazilian...

— Is she the girl from Ipanema? — Linda asks, smiling.

— She’s an amazing mother. — I defend. — After I was born, my parents separated, and I went to live with my Uncle Wayne, on a strawberry farm.

— And where is the farm? — Lily asks, now truly interested.

— It’s in the countryside of Howling... But my uncle moved to Memphis after he lost a family member who helped him. — I respond, remembering the childhood times with Wayne. — I have a little trauma... a cow almost kicked me because I squeezed the udder wrong!

Both start laughing, and I get annoyed.

— It wasn’t a bull, right? I don’t even want to imagine what it would have done to little Eddie! — Lily says, concerned.

— Did I squeeze the bull’s balls thinking it was a cow’s udder? It never occurred to me, but I remember the near-kick! — I exclaim, exaggerating.

— You talked like it already happened! — The redhead reflects. — Kids are stupid!

— I was milking in my way, then I went to squeeze the bull’s balls, and it mooed! Wayne yelled, “Boy, let go of the bull, that’s not a cow!”

Both laugh at the tragedy of my childhood.

— Poor guy! — They say in unison.

— I imagine the bull’s agony... — Lily says, still smiling.

I almost believed she felt sorry for me.

— Are you my fan or do you hate me? — I ask, curious.

— Honestly, I think you’re handsome, but... — Lily tries to say something, but her voice cracks, as if holding back.

Was she about to confess something to me?

— What else, Hansol? — I demand that she continue.

Before she speaks, I smile, and I see that, with every exchanged look, the tension between us keeps building.

— Why do you seem uncomfortable? — I provoke, teasing her.

She looks at me, her cheeks flushed, like a porcelain doll, delicate.

— It was just a compliment! — She tries to defend herself, nervous.

After this, an idea comes to mind. If I can bring her closer to Mayfield... Unlike her, I’m already friends with the club guys, and she only had Harrington’s pompadour, which seemed more like a doomed relationship to “Sonic Damage.”

— You could be friends and talk about tampons, boys! — I expose, smiling.

It sounds sexist if you look at it from the side of ignorance.

— Max, if you start again, I’ll forget the jokes. — The redhead extends her hand to Max, who smiles back.

— Right. I didn’t want to sound xenophobic... — Max concludes, and Lily seals the friendship pact with a handshake.

I stand there, watching how they behave, giving space to the girls. I conclude that the two of them could rule hell or succumb to limbo!

---

While the two are talking, a part of me is begging for attention.

My eyes can’t stray from Lily. She seems more focused on what she’s debating with Max than on talking to me.

This girl has a magnetism that pulls me into her spirit. If this isn’t passion, then it’s obsession...

I hear the redheads’ conversation from a distance.

— But Lucas is pretty cute. — Mayfield’s voice sounds like bells.

— Can’t handle the truth? — Lily speculates, leaning on Mayfield’s shoulder.

— See... truth? — Max stammers, trying to understand what Lily said.

— I think the Asian guy is into you... — Lily says, with certainty in her voice, leaving Max full of questions.

— Lily, you’re out of your mind. — Max denies it, but deep down, she knows the Asian guy has captivated her.

— Don’t you know how to read the signs? You can’t be dumber than me, Max! — Lily says honestly.

— Huh? I don’t know signs when it comes to guys! — Max responds, confused, full of doubts.

— Mayfield, value yourself! Don’t you see the truth written on your face? You want a slap from the universe? — Lily scolds, making Max realize she’s fooling herself.

— Are you sure, Lily?

The lecture works.

— The slap you gave me was worse than when my ex cheated on me!

— I didn’t want to go that hard... — Lily apologizes, lowering her head so Max doesn’t feel inferior.

— The willing ones attract each other, man!

— Okay, you’re here giving advice on crushes, but what about you and Eddie? — Max shoots, shifting the focus.

Linda starts getting nervous.

— Me and Eddie? We’re not a couple, not here, not in China... — Lily immediately denies.

— Are you sure there’s no chemistry? — Max teases, raising an eyebrow and giving her a meaningful look.

— The long-haired guy? You’re crazy, Mayfield!

— I’ll tell you the truth, okay, Lily? — says Max, ignoring Linda’s denial.

— Crap, I can imagine what I’ll have to hear... — Linda braces herself, but karma comes disguised as a friend.

— Are you going to pretend the voice of your heart isn’t screaming his name? If you don’t take Eddie, I will! — Max threatens, but of course, she’s just trying to provoke jealousy.

— Do you think I care what Eddie thinks of me? He’s just another guy whose heart I’m going to break. — Lily retorts, trying to keep her composure, but a slight cough betrays her attempt to hide the truth.

— Max, why would I fall for a... a stranger like him? — Lily tries to justify, but her resistance is clearly weakening.

— Because you two are the same, despite the differences. — Max insists, trying to open her friend’s eyes to reality.

Linda loses her composure and reveals herself:

— Oh, crap... Hey, don’t tell Eddie that I like him? — She clasps her hands, pleading.

— Pay attention to the rocker! He’s clearly in your vibe, and he’s going to admit it any time now. — Max says, trying to encourage Linda to confess.

— Sometimes, it feels like Eddie’s a love maniac. I just hope he doesn’t kill me!

The two start laughing, imagining the scene. But soon, they get scared by what their imaginations likely created in each other’s minds.

— Like Hanniger.

I walk back to them, interrupting the conversation, pretending I don’t know about Lily’s admission of liking me.

But as they see me approaching, the girls fall silent.

— Tired out your tongues? — I tease, looking alternately at Max and Lily.

They stare at me as if I’ve said something nonsensical.

— Hey, Sambora’s kid! Lily and I are already pretty good friends. — Max refers to my pompous smile.

Linda seems uncomfortable with my presence. And what the hell is she doing with that attitude if we’ve already kissed?

Mayfield, sensing the tension between me and Lily, pushes her friend, but Lily clings to her arm, creating space between us.

— The night’s ending, and I haven’t even enjoyed it... — I mutter, but Linda seems distant, lost in her own thoughts.

— Lily? — She gently touches Lily’s shoulder, but firmly.

Lily looks at me with compassion, but the nervousness is still evident in her eyes.

---

I know what I feel, and it's time to act. I need to steal the heart of the elf.

— Can I talk to you, Hansol? — I grab her arm, and my gaze desperately searches for hers, trying to convey the urgency in my words.

— What? — She looks at me, curious, surprised by my sudden change in mood.

— Will you come with me? — I say, gently holding her hand, ignoring the worries trying to take root in my mind.

When the light from the room hits her, I notice her paleness is more pronounced, which only increases my concern.

— Maxine! — Linda calls, worried, but Max, always attentive, gives a thumbs up and shouts.

— Are you afraid I’ll devour you, like a dragon?

— Unless you’re a zombie robot!

Zombie robot? IT’S QUINN!!

•••

I pull Lily to a more secluded corner, seeking a moment of privacy.

— What were you talking about that you forgot about me? — I ask, curious, but also a bit uncomfortable.

— Things that aren’t your business, angel... — The redhead replies, with a serious expression.

— Want a pasture, horse? — I fire off, and can’t hold back my laughter.

— Hey, you animal! It’s a mare! — Lily corrects me, arms crossed. Her response makes me laugh more than I should.

— Are you mad, level one dwarf?

— Doesn’t matter, Eddie. — She says, out of breath. I realize I may have hurt her.

The older one sighs.

— Eddie, why do you want to be alone with me?

Lily confesses, and I wonder if she really hasn’t understood my intentions since the kiss in the car.

— What a disappointment! You still don’t get it? — I say, as though I’m truly opening up. And I am!

Hansol’s eyes narrow in suspicion.

— What, Munson? — She asks, her voice cracking.

— Enough of these mind games! — I exclaim, with a sharp response that could break any argument of hers.

— Why do you look at me like that? You look like you’re going to devour my soul... — She pleads, clearly uncomfortable with the intensity of my gaze, which wants to adore her like a goddess.

— Why do you pretend to be someone you’re not? — I press, searching for answers that maybe Lily doesn’t even know she needs to find.

— Are you drunk? — She deduces, analyzing me from top to bottom.

— I want you! — I blurt out impulsively, my heart racing, as if my body is on fire, revealing more than I intended.

But what can I do? She makes me fly so high, like the legend of Icarus, getting close to the sun. With her, I don’t even need drugs now to stay high.

— You’re a witch... — I pause, reflecting. My eyes widen. — And you’re cold as the chest of a witch!

— You’ll never see yourself through my lenses... — She murmurs, and I tilt my head to the side.

I look at her carefully.

— You, one moment push me away, another you seem like you want me close?

She smiles.

— There’s nothing wrong. You rescue my inner child that I’ve hidden for so long, as if it were layers...

I enter the same reflective thought as Lily.

— When we grow up and stop being those brave children, it’s easy to feel like any setback could be the end of everything. But what if it’s not? What if life is just a journey, with all its bumps and dragons along the way? — I conclude the reflection, and Lily touches my hand.

— Eddie, you’re not a freak or a curse!

— You... — I take a breath, trying to process. — Do you really think that? — I almost can’t believe the redhead’s statement. After all, has no one ever had the courage to stay and not find me terrifying?

— Of course, you saved me.

— You think I saved you? — I ask, the voice of my heart asserting itself. — You don’t think I’m a freak?

Lily looks at me with compassion and makes a face.

— I’ve told you, you saved me from dark paths. You brought me to Lothlóriën. — She exclaims, and I almost fall to the floor.

— Come on, Munson, you play RPG. Only smart people are dungeon masters and can imagine such cool things... — She compliments me, and I feel more welcomed than ever before.

— You love to pump me up with compliments, Hansol. But... I think that’s incredibly cute. Why aren’t you afraid to express things when we’re together?

— Come on, hug me like only you can? — She asks, excited, with the purest empathy.

---

After we pulled away from the hug, we stopped beside a wall and leaned against it, watching people pass by.

Some couples kiss and exchange caresses, while others seem lost in their own solitary bubbles.

As for me, I’m still drunk, but this time, it’s not just from alcohol.

I feel high on love, and I no longer care about this friendship. I don’t want to be her friend anymore. I want to be more than a friend...

— You’re not... — When our eyes meet, she gets lost. — So...

— Strange, or that I adore the devil? Haha, I’ve heard that before. — I love giving sharp replies, faster than the tip of a needle.

"Sorry, you must hate jokes about metalheads and rockers, right?" — No one seems to care about that, but I don’t mind.

— It’s annoying. I only don’t throw a punch because hitting is vandalism, so I listen and pretend I didn’t hear it. — I reply, and the redhead bursts into laughter.

"And if it depended on me, every insult they threw at you, I’d take it and crush everyone’s heads with a hammer!" — She justifies herself, and I start laughing.

— Dude, you talk like an RPG player about to kick a Lich’s ass... Of course, you’re not violent, imagine if you were? — I tease.

— Want to face the martial arts beast? — Lily starts to threaten me, and I find her insults amusing.

— Calm down, relax! — I raise my hands in defense. — Redhead, do you have any dreams? One of those that others think is impossible? — I ask, curious to know more about her.

— I don’t know, I think only slasher movie killers have motivation... — She mocks, but then becomes serious. — I was going to join the fire department, but then, in my teens, plans changed... because I discovered literature.

— You woke up and said, "I want to be a writer, world!"

Lily smiles as she talks about her aspirations.

— Ah, curious. I had a childhood friend who loved writing love stories.

— Really? My twin? By the way, I just noticed something weird... — She watches my lips move carefully.

— What? — I raise an eyebrow, no longer surprised by the evidence revealing itself.

— We could’ve gone out the night Corroded Coffin won the fifth edition of the talent show!

— You know we won? — Clearly, Quinn has been here the whole time. — The talent show was the only time we saw each other before. Did you forget? — I recall, making a disappointed face.

— Don’t count, we couldn’t even exchange words or get to know each other in person!

She’s right. It was a distant interaction, and I never had the courage to ask “Lily” out, even when we came in second place in the school’s best band contest.

I would take her to Black River or Lovers Rock — the calm river or the lovers' stone of Howling, places where no one would bother us and where we would have a romantic date.

— Aren’t you coming, Eddie? — She invites me to get out of this boring place for a while.

— Where, Lily? — I ask, looking at her with a confused puppy look, as if seeking guidance.

When we get to the place, I realize we’re on a balcony with a beautiful view.

Before the beauty of the place, we stop and look at each other. The silence says everything, the shared attraction and the comfort in each other’s gaze.

Without saying a word, we sit on the ground and watch the stars, their light shining above us, creating a scene from a romantic movie. I just don’t know if it will be a dark or light romance.

— That star over there is called Alpha Centauri. It’s a star that isn’t visible to observers above twenty-nine degrees north latitude... — The redhead informs with enviable knowledge.

— Oh, maybe it could be seen with binoculars? Ah, I forgot the name of that equipment! — I say, trying to hold back the urge to touch her hand.

— As far as I know, you can if you're in the northern hemisphere because it’s only visible in the part closest to the Equator...

— And do you know the distance from it to Earth? It must be a tremendous distance because... — Suddenly, I feel brave enough to debate about planets and stars, but it’s not just because she likes it.

Since childhood, I loved astronomy. Wayne would buy those magazines about cosmic mysteries.

— You might not believe it, but the distance is four thousand, three hundred and sixty-seven light-years away from us... Isn’t that incredible? — She declares, emphasizing her admiration for the universe.

— If you knew how divine this subject is...

---

— I don’t believe it, you’re also a lunatic when it comes to cosmic mysteries? — Her enthusiasm is contagious.

— Admirer. My life isn’t just tabletop RPG. — I expose, leaving her surprised. Lily looks at me as if she’s found gold on her explorer’s journey.

— I was afraid people wouldn’t understand that I find joy in stars and love reading those glossaries...

— Isn’t the name “encyclopedia”? — I risk correcting her.

She thinks for a minute, becoming distant.

— Does it matter, when we can be time travelers?

Do I believe in fairy tales? I think Hansol cast a spell on me... I can’t get Lily out of my head, how we could be a revolutionary couple in music and writing, even though we’re distant in professions.

— Howling is beautiful at night. — I admit, pointing at the starry sky.

Damn, I can’t focus on the view. All my attention is on how Lily has my heart with her crazy analogies and personal admirations.

— Very beautiful... Like you, Lily... — I murmur, looking at her as her hair floats with the atmospheric pressure created by the wind, starring in a movie scene.

— Did you call me beautiful, Eddie?

She presses me, getting closer.

— No! — I deny, sweating. — Clean your ears, huh?

I look at her sideways.

— I thought it was cute you comparing me to the night...

I can’t react normally, so I press my lips together and open my eyes.

— Damn it, I’m into you.

She stays silent. And does that mean I should act?

— Your eyes remind me of bats. Dark... — Lily compliments me, while I watch the starry sky above us and try to disguise my crazy desire to kiss her.

— It’s night. Of course, they get dark when there’s no light!

Munson, you’re contradicting yourself, let her flirt!

— Eddie, it was a compliment, no need for snarky remarks! — She scolds me and pushes me.

— Alright, I must be nervous. — I give a half-smile.

She processes the thought for a second, becoming distant.

— Are you still here? Or did you go to Hobbiton? — I ask, concerned about her silence.

She breathes deeply.

— You have something that comforts me, Eddie... — She smiles, taking my hand, showing affection.

— What if we have this soulmate thing going on? — And once again, she attacks the last romantic I have inside me.

— I don’t believe in those things, just like I don’t believe in UFOs!

— Well, I believe in UFOs and, more than that, in us. You can’t deny anymore that there’s something going on, Lily. — And that’s how I pressure her to open up and say: "It’s me, Quinn!"

— I don’t want to be annoying, but already am, I wasn’t born to talk about stupid feelings.

Her lament cuts my heart.

— You’re not annoying for being agnostic about love. At least you feel at home with me? — I ask, looking for confirmation.

— Hm, maybe that’s the worst part... — She’s clearly nervous. Excited.

— I’m not saying you should be proud of defrosting Eddie’s heart, the Freak. But you’ve made a difference in my life since you got here, Lily...

— Why the hell don’t you judge how crazy I am?!

— Listen to me, I don’t want us to just be friends anymore. I want something beyond confiding...

I hope Lily understands why I threw the flirt.

— I know we kissed in Nel’s car, okay? But we can’t be together, there will be a fight, Eddie!

The redhead pulls out a genuine laugh from me that had been stuck for a while.

— What’s funny? — She judges me, with an angry look.

— You see us as lovers who hate each other. I see Eddie and Valeria... Van Halen, you know? — I start to get deluded.

— What if we’re... Bonnie and Clyde? — She says, and makes me stretch my cheeks.

---

— You won, champ!

If I kiss her out of the blue, would the magic of the night be lost in declarations or kicks?

Lily smiles, adjusting her red hair. I think that’s the confirmation I was looking for.

A lesson I carry with me is the importance of respecting people’s time. Today, I conclude that love is a human emotion that arises even in the smallest interactions.

I remain silent, unable to find a response that springs from my heart. From a scientific perspective, the theory that the heart is the most sensitive organ makes sense, but in reality, we have an organ that reacts with greater intensity.

The stomach! Damn epicenter of anxiety, euphoria, sadness, confusion, shame, and, above all, responsible for instilling fear and nervousness in our guts...

— I don’t understand why you like being by my side. — Lily murmurs, looking at me with confusion.

It seems obvious to me why I’m still here, but she hasn’t realized it yet.

— I won’t judge you based on meritocracy, I’m a nonconformist. What matters to me is the heart that beats, what’s inside is more true...

— What do you want with a messed-up girl, laugh or love me?

— Was that a flirt or a job interview? — I tease, noticing her desire to laugh.

— Are you sure Eddie Munson’s heart is really from the dark side? — She pretends to make an adorable and loving expression.

— Don’t you agree that some parts of life are about the friends we make along the way and the loves that heal our inner diseases?

— Are you more of a philosopher than me, Eddie? — She notices my train of thought.

— Could it all be about healing yourself when love arrives? — I reflect for a while.

Can’t Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon starts playing, but it wasn’t playing in my head. Someone inside put it on at the right moment.

— Hm, from up here, it looks like a romantic movie scene... — I comment, trying to disguise my recurring habit of admiring her kissable lips.

— What are you thinking about? — Lily asks, smiling while her brown eyes study my expressions.

Hoping she falls under my spell, I blink, and she smiles, biting her lips.

— About how life is crazy: one day you’re lonely, with no one understanding your stuff, and the next, someone shows up to make you feel less alone?

Lost in this reflection, I don’t forget that I’m facing Quinn, but I can’t reveal that I know she’s back.

The redhead looks at me, smiling.

— I think it’s about finding someone who understands your shadows...

I embrace her idealization of life.

— What if life is like getting drunk, just to recover from the hangover the next day and feel okay again? — I present a less delicate view.

— Don’t you think that’s problematic? — She makes a face.

— What should I say, Lily? — I rest my forearm on my knee and look at her, biting my lip.

— You used a metaphor for alcoholism... — The redhead asks with a smile, making my heart skip a beat.

I still remember when my heart was made of ice. But after Quinn crossed my path, she broke that barrier of ice surrounding it.

I notice Lily’s necklace hidden under her neck and decide to remain silent, not bombarding her with questions.

It was obvious Quinn had a matching one: sun and moon. Halves that complete each other.

The year was 2003. I was four years old, and on a beautiful spring afternoon, the sun was shining. I still remember walking around Memphis with Wayne.

Suddenly, I stopped in front of a jewelry store that sold rustic jewelry, and at that exact moment, I let go of the bearded man’s hand.

— What’s over there, champ? — Wayne used to call me that.

I point to the display window.

— Did you like something, son?

— I liked... that pendant...

That same day, Wayne bought the pendant.

You know when you learn to ride a bike, and after a while, you have to take off the training wheels that used to protect you from falling? Getting the pendant from my uncle made me a fulfilled boy. The pendant had a small division of figures. I would give the moon to Quinn and keep the sun for myself...

In my head, well, as a child who hadn’t even left diapers yet, I imagined that Quinn would love the gift, since my mom used to call her the moon, because she had phases.

I still have a special fondness for it, but something tells me she lost it.

— Was it for you, Eddie? Or for someone special? — Wayne asked, curious.

— Uncle Wayne... — I hesitated, deciding to reveal the secret. — I’m going to give the necklace to Quinn, and the other half will stay with me. — I answered, smiling.

— Ah, champ. Are you already becoming a little man? — He gave me a pat on the head.

I smiled at him, feeling like the most special boy in the world.

— Water her heart every day, women can be like plants that need care.

Our journey is like an epic by J.R.R. Tolkien, Quinn Josephine.

---

A paleness takes over the redhead’s face before she runs off. I follow the trail of her steps almost without hesitation, until I catch up to her in the bathroom.

She lifts the toilet seat and vomits the effect of those damn alcohol cocktails. I hold her hair, pulling it away from her back as she writhes. Every second watching her crumble awakens in me a desire to protect her.

Lily looks fragile, with pale and cold skin, almost like a ghost. And anyone who saw her now would swear she was on the brink of collapse.

She still holds onto the sides of the toilet until she closes the lid with a sigh. Her gaze meets mine, filled with a mix of relief and exhaustion, as if pleading for a break. Carefully, I pull a piece of gum from my pocket and hand it to her.

I always have one nearby. You never know when you'll need to cover the bitter taste of a hangover like this.

She takes it with a weak smile, lacking shine, but something in her expression shows a silent gratitude. I won’t leave her alone. Not now. Not when she’s the prize life gave me for not surrendering to the darkness.

— Thanks for the gum... — she murmurs, her voice dragging, and rests her head against the wall, closing her eyes. — I hope... nothing else comes out of there.

— I knew it. That Carver is going to pay. Now, let me take care of you?

She laughs, weakly, barely able to stay on her feet.

— Eddie... You don’t have to. And, besides, I’m older than you. I don’t need a babysitter. — She forces a smile, but her words barely come out firm.

I roll my eyes.

— As you wish, Miss Independent!

— Sometimes I think you’re some kind of superhero in disguise... — She looks away, maybe with a slight tease, but still looking vulnerable.

— Superhero? — I shake my head, laughing. — I’m just Eddie Munson, the Freak of the town. But, you know... defender of those who wander in the darkness and those who get caught by demobats. — I say it as a joke, but it’s the pure truth.

She laughs again, this time more intensely. Her laugh is weak, but it’s still her.

— You know what’s crazier? — I comment, involuntarily.

— Hm?

— If my dad was still in Muthez, I’d be getting a beating for letting a beautiful girl drink until she throws up her guts...

She gives a bitter laugh.

— He’s not in Howling anymore? Eddie, do you know where he is now? — She asks, confused.

I hesitate, the weight of the words pressing on me.

— No. The last time I heard, he had moved to Arkansas. It’s been many years...

— Arkansas? When they mention that name, I think of the song Mississippi Queen. — She relaxes.

— Great! It really borders the Mississippi River... But look at you, the geographer!

She flashes a smile almost satisfied.

— You know, I’m not American. — She smiles, confident.

I lower my head, interested.

— I’ve always been curious... What brought you to Howling, Lily?

She sighs, still leaning against the wall, her eyes searching for a fixed point that wasn’t me.

— A coincidence... inevitable... I got here when I was three, but I ended up going back to Brazil when I was a little older...

— Let me guess, family problems? — I ask cautiously, knowing the topic is delicate. — I heard some rumors at school about you...

She shakes her head, almost with resignation.

— Maybe they exaggerated what happened to me. Partly, it was my dad's lack of job opportunities and... other things I don’t like to remember...

I notice her discomfort and approach, lowering my guard.

It’s like a reminder that some connections, when they’re so deep, challenge any attempt to erase them.

— But what happened in Howling?

She lets out a long sigh.

— My dad met a guy who had a nephew... They called him weird...

---

— It’s not new that anyone outside the social horde gets labeled like that, right? — I pretend I didn’t catch that she was talking about me.

I spit the words out with the bitter taste of frustration, almost feeling the heat rise like the rage of a dragon. I hate forced conformity.

She watches me, unhurried, and then laughs lightly, as if she understands my discomfort.

— Honestly, he wasn’t weird, just a rocker kid who wore band shirts that people thought were from the devil...

The image of how I used to be in the past flashes in my mind, and my curiosity sharpens.

— Did you and that guy get along right away? Or was there some animosity?

— We became childhood friends as soon as I defended him from a bully in Elementary School! — She answers, her dark eyes lost in some distant memory. — Until I left Howling, and he was heartbroken...

An emptiness echoes in my words before I even finish them.

— It sucks to distance yourself from someone you grew up with. But Lily, have you never thought... what if he never got over you?

She shrugs, but there’s something undefinable in her gaze.

— I don’t know, he liked me.

My eyes widen a little, and my chest tightens with an unexpected intensity. I swallow hard, trying to seem more casual than I feel.

— And when did you realize it was like... love? — I ask, looking at her with affection.

She sighs, and the smile that appears on her lips is melancholic.

— I didn’t see it until I hit adolescence, when the longing kicked in, and I wanted to find him in Howling...

I shift, a slight smile appearing at the corner of my mouth.

— So, it was during that time that you realized he was your type?

— Of course. — She sighs, her shoulders dropping a little, as if releasing a weight. — The confusion hit hard, we’d spent enough time together to miss each other. The disappointment was so much... like falling off a bike and scraping your knees... — She looks away, as if the memory still hurts a little.

I nod, trying to understand what that means for her.

— Yeah... they say the first disappointment is like scraping your knee after falling off a bike. — I say, sliding across the floor to sit next to her, leaning my back against the cold tile. — But how, at such a young age, did you guys fall in love? Don’t you think that’s a bit strange?

Lily gives me a wise look, a mischievous smile mixed with a touch of seriousness.

— You can’t predict when love will knock at your door. I mean, you know the frontal lobe forms at three years old, and it’s the one that stores memories... and traumas.

I raise my eyebrows, surprised by her depth.

— Your nickname should be Hansol Encyclopedia! — I compliment, impressed.

She laughs, a sound that brightens even the darkest room.

— It all started in primary school, what you call Elementary School here? — She asks, with a slight uncertainty that makes me smile, finding her adorable.

— That’s right, the first school year. — The tilt of her head, the way her eyes flicker away, makes me want to know more. — They said your dad didn’t know English very well?

She makes a small hand movement, as if illustrating a memory.

— Well, my dad is American-Brazilian, so he already had a foundation for speaking English...

I pause. Hopper, Quinn’s dad, is she talking about him?

I smile, almost without meaning to.

— Your dad was lucky to find help when he needed it the most, huh?

— Yeah! — She says, her voice heavy with emotion, her eyes sparkling. — But about the guy my dad became friends with, I would never have met... that curly-haired guy.

I think now Lily is opening up to me like a complicated book, but something terrible prevents me from unraveling all the words.

I feel a weight, as if something here is too personal, too dense to be unraveled.

— I guess these things are just life... — I comment, exhaling as if trying to ease the tension. — One day you’re sent to a place and find the love of your life, but then destiny comes and separates you...

She laughs, but the sound is fragile, almost cynical.

— Destiny doesn’t find you by chance to play in an emotional playground!

I find myself smiling, fascinated by her intensity. Lily is a mix of flavors — dark chocolate with a touch of cream and an acidic aftertaste, like lemon. And that acidic side seems to surface at unexpected moments.

— But... what if destiny decided to bring you and that guy together? Again? — I shoot, almost in a whisper, my chest heavy with the possibility.

She hesitates, her eyes shifting to the floor as a shadow of emotion dances on her face.

— I don’t know. The guy probably hates me for leaving, Eddie. Just imagine, I left him because of family conditions and never came back to give any explanations.

That confession stirs something strange in me, something I can’t explain.

— Let’s say he never forgot you... like you apparently haven’t forgotten him? — I propose, almost revealing my more poetic side.

She smiles, but it’s a shaky, almost forced smile.

— I’m afraid to get close. If he talks to me about everything that happened, it would be a mess inside... — She points to her chest, her fingers tracing a circle over her dress, as if trying to reach something deep.

My hand hesitates next to hers, feeling the implied pain.

— But if it’s a mutual thing, why be afraid?

She lets out a breath with almost brutal force, her eyes sparking.

— Don’t ask me questions. Forgive me, but I’m not going to answer anything about my past anymore, Eddie...

We fall into silence, letting the voices around us fill the space between us. People talk, laugh, but it feels like everything dissipates into the air, except the weight of our conversation.

— Sorry... — I murmur, not looking at her. — I won’t ask about personal stuff anymore. But... what about us, don’t I mean anything?

She turns her face, a playful grimace mixed with something deeper.

— Oh my God, Eddie, we can’t be together. You know I have shadows from my past, and you wouldn’t be able to love me!

---

I interrupt her flow of words by gently touching her fingers, trying to comfort her, to bring a little peace to the storm I see in her eyes.

— Shall we be honest? — I say, my voice softer but filled with determination. — Do you really think there's no place for me in your heart, and for everything I've made you feel?

Lily nervously shifts her legs, her foot swinging with an anxiety that dissolves any remaining calm. She looks away, as if trying to hide the vulnerability that keeps slipping through her words.

— You need someone who will stay, who will embrace you no matter if you have demons. — I continue, leaning slightly closer, trying to catch every nuance of her expression. — Are you going to live forever in the shadow of guilt and mistakes, Lily?

She frowns, her face hardening as if I had touched a wound still open.

— I wasn't born destined to love... — she retorts, her words coming out harsh. — Don't speak like you know what I've been through and want to take care of me, Munson!

I breathe deeply, feeling the weight of her words.

— Quinn. — I let out, my voice still low but firm. — I know you came back for me, and you risked everything for love. Enough with the lies and games, I know it's you, Quinn!

She looks at me in surprise, her eyes wide. Her lips part, as if she’s just been caught in the middle of a secret.

— Who is Quinn?

I let out a short laugh, shaking my head.

— You really think I wouldn’t recognize it after that outburst? I'm not stupid!

She blinks, once, twice, three times, trying to process.

A heavy sigh escapes her lips, and I see the moment she accepts defeat, when she lets the facade she’s built over the years dissolve, slowly, in front of me.

— Don't be scared, okay? — I ask, keeping my voice calm, while she pulls back, moving a few centimeters away as if I were the danger. — I don’t want you to be scared of me, your Eddie, remember?

— Don’t get closer, you must hate me! — she exclaims, her eyes wide like a cornered doe, making my heart skip a beat and miss its rhythm.

The last thing I want is to push her away, especially now, after everything.

— No, I don’t hate you!! — I confess, letting out the air slowly, letting each word find its weight. — I don’t feel disgusted to send you to hell. Actually, I’m grateful... If it weren’t for you joining Carver’s team, I would’ve never found you at that talent show.

— You knew... since when did I come back? — Quinn’s voice falters, barely able to hold my gaze.

— I pieced things together... here and there!

She lowers her head, and for a second, all I see is the trail of confusion she’s tried to hide until now.

— No matter what you do now, there’s no going back. I can’t be near you! — She refuses, and I see desperation beginning to grow, escaping in her voice.

I raise my hand and hold her wrist, not tightly, but firm enough to keep her there.

— Calm down, Quinn. — I ask, and feel her muscles tense under my touch. — You can’t fool a guy who plays RPGs, it’s okay, it wasn’t your fault!

She jerks her wrist with an abrupt movement, but I let go before she forces anything.

— I shouldn’t have come back to Howling! — She exclaims, looking away to anywhere but my face. — I was able to mess up your life... You deserve someone who respects your history of pain and victories, Eddie!

— Not really, I won’t back away from you. — I insist, firmly, even though my own voice carries the weight of uncertainty. — And it’s not now that you’ll run away from me, Quinn. I don’t want other girls in my way... only you know this rotting heart of mine!

She bites her lower lip, and I see a glimmer of tears in her eyes, a reflection of everything she’s hidden for years.

— Maybe I forgot how good you are... — She responds, her voice almost breaking as she stands up from the cold floor, her steps restless.

— Don’t think this will make me let you go. — I reply, rising and stopping in front of her. — I need you like the earth needs rain to grow fruit!

— Don’t come with analogies! — She explodes, her face flushed, but I know she’s a step away from giving in, from letting the shield fall completely. — Stay away, Eddie. I’m dangerous. A time bomb!!

— Let me explode with you. — I whisper, gently placing my fingers on her face. — You’re mine, Klung, you always have been.

Quinn opens her mouth to protest, but before she can show that she loves my affectionate touch, she pulls away with a shove and screams.

— STAY AWAY, EDDIE! — The words are a storm of repressed emotions, a whirlwind of everything she fears. — You can’t love someone who destroys you. I love your heart too much to let it break again!

I stare at her, my heart almost beating out of sync, and I just whisper:

— But I love you, Quinn!

She closes her eyes, breathing in deeply.

— Love isn’t enough... — she murmurs, taking a step back, and I feel the emptiness growing where she was. — You’re a masochist for still loving me, Munson.

— So be it, then. — I let go, firm. — It’s been years without you. You came back, and I have to try to win your heart, even if I have to go to hell. If it doesn’t work, I’ll go to heaven and talk to angels... but I’ll have you! — I proclaim, determined.

She looks at me for a second that feels like eternity, until she finally whispers.

— No way. Forget about me! It’s better if we end it. We can... be friends? — She proposes, friendly.

I take a step toward her, my eyes fixed on her.

— Not a chance. — I respond, a bit selfishly. — I love you. And I breathe you in, just to be your friend, girl.

— Don’t ruin your life more, Eddie... — She whispers, her voice choked.

With that, I move closer once again, and in a swift motion, she tries to turn the doorknob to leave, but I move quickly, closing the distance and pulling her back, trapping her against the wall.

— What... Munson? — Her eyes shine with the last resistance.

— If you don’t love me... — I say in a final plea, almost begging. — Then let me know by a kiss, and I swear I’ll leave you in peace if you don’t love me anymore. Can it be?

---

My vision blurs, and my heart beats so hard it feels like it's going to explode. The only thing anchoring me is her hand in mine — an intimate touch that makes me feel alive.

My fingers intertwine with hers, as if it’s all I need to keep from falling apart.

Without thinking, I lean in and kiss her. The beginning is shy, but it quickly turns into something fierce. I feel her warmth and the need that only grows with every passing second.

My hands slide to her waist, eager to feel the warm skin beneath the dress. Quinn, who had been hesitant, now holds me by the neck, her trembling fingers brushing my jawline as we lose ourselves in each other. The world outside disappears, and there’s only us.

But suddenly, it seems like something makes her hesitate. I stop for a second, resting my forehead against hers and smiling like an idiot.

— Mm, damn. Now that I know it’s you, Quinn, I’ve never felt so alive and so screwed at the same time...

She sighs, and I can feel the internal struggle.

— Why do you say such obscene things?

— I can't stop. — I laugh nervously. — You make me this way, with no filter, no shield, Klung.

She closes her eyes and bites her lip, feeling the weight of her own words.

— Sorry, I can't keep you tied to me. I can’t, Eddie...

— No. — I hold her face, trying to memorize every detail. — I need you. You’re the only one who can dissipate this darkness inside me...

She swallows hard, her voice wavering between reason and emotion.

— You’ll survive. You’ve always known how to handle pain... I love you, but you weren’t meant to love me.

Her words cut me like a knife. I see the pain written on my face, but I grab her wrist before she can escape.

— If you leave now, Quinn, you’ll leave me in pieces. I swear I won’t survive without you.

She hesitates one last time, but then pulls away and opens the door.

Our eyes meet, and I feel like I’m being torn apart as I watch her leave.

I stand there, the echoes of my breath and sighs filling the empty space she left behind.

I kneel by the door, murmuring like a madman:

— I love you, I love you... Come back to me... I need you, please!

After what feels like an eternity, the door slowly opens, and I lose my balance, falling to the ground. I look up and see my sister, Antonella, kneeling beside me with a concerned look.

— Eddie, what’s going on? I’ve been looking for you all over the hall! — Her hand on my shoulder brings a comfort that only reminds me of the abyss Quinn left behind. But nothing, nothing at all, can fill this emptiness that consumes me.

Hearing my broken state, fallen in my own sadness, I hear Antonella’s familiar voice break the silence.

— Little bro, are those tears?

I lift my gaze, my red eyes and trembling hands like dry leaves in a storm. A tear slides down my face, and I wipe it away clumsily.

— Did you drink too much? No wonder, you’re at Jason’s friend’s house. Didn’t they have a better place to keep the party going after the blackout in the hall? — Her indignation echoes in the air as if she wants to pull me out of the hole I’ve buried myself in.

She steps closer, helping me get up from the floor, her touch firm but gentle, as if handling something fragile. I feel like a newborn, embraced by a sister who knows I’m not that strong.

Antonella doesn’t waste any time and drags me out of the bathroom, and I lean on her, feeling her strength pull me out of my own hell. She gets me into the Chevrolet, the engine roaring impatiently.

During the ride, she says nothing, the silence between us heavy. Her gaze fixed on the road, it feels like the world outside the car has disappeared.

When we arrive, I run to my room and lock the door behind me. The "Do Not Disturb" sign is the only thing I have to protect myself. I’m disturbed enough already, and the world outside can wait.

Later, as the night goes on, Antonella knocks on my door, a soft tap that contrasts with the storm inside me. She finds me lying on the bed in a fetal position, breathing heavily.

— Hairy... — Her voice is gentle, but there’s a weight, a concern that makes me want to open up, but also lock myself away even more.

— What, Antonella? — My voice comes out as a whisper, cold and emotionless, like an echo lost in space.

— I... wanted to know how you’re doing. Have you recovered from the drinking? — She leans in, trying to see my face.

— I didn’t drink, damn... great, I look like I have a love hangover. — The words are harsh, but they have nothing to do with alcohol. It’s an emotional hangover, an emptiness I don’t know how to fill.

She sighs, touching my shoulder lightly, almost like a caress.

— What happened? Weren’t you having fun with Lily at the party? Did she leave?

I shrug, my body feeling heavy, as if every movement is a monumental effort.

— Damn, don’t mention her.

— Eddie, what did she do? You seem angry at her. — Antonella crosses her arms, her eyes locked on me, waiting for an answer.

— Can’t you see? She just left the graduation party, left me alone. Maybe it’s my punishment for being the Freak of this shitty town! — The irritation bubbles up, and I can feel Antonella’s stomach turning.

— Stop talking nonsense! Did Lily ditch you for another guy?

— No, she just left... forever. Funny you don’t know much about your ex-classmate, huh? — Frustration overflows, and what should be light now feels like a ticking emotional time bomb.

— Well, what I knew about Lily was never enough to say I knew her so well... — Her voice is low, but her gaze is firm, as if she wants to get inside my head.

— Nel, can you just leave me alone for today, without disturbing me?

— Of course, I’m not leaving you alone, damn it. She left because it was late, her parents must’ve given her an ultimatum. — Her determination is a beacon in the darkness, but I just want to hide. I see her shake her head, resolute.

— What do you want other than pestering me in this life?

— To give you attention, you’re in a drunken sadness, Eddie. — She steps forward, her eyes burning into me.

— Damn! You’re a devil, brat. — I sigh, turning to face her, frustration bubbling over. — To sum it up, your friend isn’t who you think she is.

— Weird girl. I always thought she was a mystery. — She reflects, and the lamp light casts a shadow on her face.

— Don’t call her weird as if it’s an insult!

— Oh, defending your potential crush? — Antonella raises an eyebrow, a challenging smile forming.

— Everyone’s weird, but she’s different... — I turn, looking down, trying to find the right words.

— Her weirdness makes you fall for her? — she asks, filled with affection.

— I have to tell you something. Nelly, Lily is... She’s... She’s Quinn. — My heart speeds up, and I feel the weight in the air.

Antonella starts laughing, but soon the laughter dies.

— Are you crazy? That drinking was something serious, huh? — she mocks.

— Right, don’t believe me? Do you know where that photo we have with Quinn is? — I lift my head, hoping she sees the gravity of the situation.

— Hm, it should be in one of mom’s albums... — She quickly stands, light on her feet as she searches. Her hurry makes me uneasy.

— What connection could Lily have with Quinn? Eddie, if this is a joke, I’ll hunt you down! — She threatens through gritted teeth while watching me flip through the album.

— Maybe we won’t find any clues. But can you recognize eyes?

I grab the photo the photographer gave us after taking my picture with Lily and compare it with the old ones. Her gaze is attentive as she examines every detail.

— Oh, shit. Is... is it her? — Antonella is in shock over the resemblance, and I feel a cold in my stomach.

— All this time, she fooled us. It was Quinn. She was the girl from the talent show and my classmate after being yours. — My eyes search hers, looking for a response.

— What bad luck, huh?

— What’s the deal, brat? — Nervousness starts turning into anger, and I feel my heart race.

— Oh, you know. She joined the school’s clique of stuck-up girls, for love of you. Quinn did everything for love!

Antonella had a point, and the truth weighs like a brick.

— She left for a reason. Did you say something stupid, Eddie? — The question hangs in the air, and its weight is almost unbearable.

---

— I was myself. It's easy to be myself with her. — A weight on my chest, a frustration I can't hide. — But I didn’t disrespect her. I don’t understand why she ran away from me...

Antonella watches me, her serious gaze trying to understand what I can’t express. She leans a little closer, as if her words could cross the barrier I’ve built around myself.

— She had this power over you. It’s hard to find someone with whom we can truly be ourselves, Eddie. You were lucky, and bad luck embraced you. — Her sincerity makes my heart tighten.

— Maybe I was never meant to be loved, or to love. — My voice is a whisper, almost lost in the dense air of the room. — Why is everything a mess when it’s with me?

— Things going wrong is normal, curly. Maybe in another life, you two will love each other. Or maybe in this one, who knows? You never know... — Antonella’s tone is soft but firm, as if trying to lift me from the abyss I’ve sunk into.

I sigh, feeling an invisible weight on my chest.

— I’m tired of this nonsense. Love is not for me. — The voice comes out almost like a grunt, the exhaustion dominating my words. — Go to sleep, Antonella. Mom’s going to get here soon and she’ll yell at us if we’re still awake.

— Wait. — She gets up, almost electric energy in her. — I won’t leave you in this sadness. Do this: live life, and if she comes back, let things happen. But until she does, do what you love. Play RPG, take guitar lessons, turn the anger into art! — She gestures animatedly, her passion almost contagious.

— You’re right... — A hope begins to rise inside me. — I won’t waste time mourning. It’s a martyr that needs to be broken without mercy...

The night goes on with us in the living room, watching Superbad, it’s today! our favorite comedy movie. The familiar laughter mixes with my state of mind.

As the jokes in the movie echo, I feel a lightness I didn’t expect.

The moment needed that, a touch of humor. I couldn’t blame Quinn for the choices she made.

— This is not what a real man would do.

I would keep living, my way, with or without her...

Quinn

Life is full of complicated choices, and sometimes, even when we try to do the right thing, we’re forced to distance ourselves from those we love.

The weight of it presses on my heart.

Why can’t we just be together?

It’s been months since graduation, which didn’t even have the coronation of the king and queen because of the blackout. What should’ve been a celebration turned into a romance with no happy ending.

I had to say goodbye to Eddie once more. And this time, he saw me leave. His image, with eyes full of unanswered questions, haunts me.

When I broke his heart, it hurt deeply, but I had no choice. Family matters needed my attention, and I knew I wouldn’t have a chance to date Eddie.

Sometimes, people don’t understand our decisions, but it’s important they respect our choices.

I remember leaving the boy alone, full of doubts, while I had my own questions without answers. The memory of his painful look still echoes in my mind.

Now, looking back, I see how cowardly I was. I was afraid to give in, and now it’s too late; I’ve lost the trust of the person I deeply love.

I still love you, Eddie. I miss you in a way that almost hurts.

I’ve watched you since the first day at Howling High School. You grew, but still had those curls and that serious look that hid the warmth only you have.

When I saw you grow, you were surrounded by friends and admirers, but I was there, even though you never saw me.

In recent years, life brought us together on purpose, and I’ve never regretted that chance happening.

Why will I never forget you? Because you were the only boy who treated me with respect and was kind to me.

Every emotion you awakened in me still lives, and I treasure those memories, even though we’re now apart.

I’m sure you knew from the beginning it was fate. Maybe not when we were on the talent show stage, but in the library, where our stories intertwined...

On a May 8th afternoon in 2020, when it was your birthday, I was watching TV with my mom.

The house was full of laughter, but my heart was elsewhere.

We were talking in the living room while popcorn popped in the microwave, and the delicious smell filled the air.

We put on a comedy movie, but I complained and wanted to change it to something more gothic. Yes, I have a dark spirit inside me that, at night, joins the darkness like a bat; after all, I am the daughter of the night.

The movie was almost over when I changed the channel. I quickly searched through the programs, and at that moment, my eyes locked onto the first channel. There he was.

It couldn’t be... Eddie Munson? Why was he on TV, participating in a talent show?

Before I could process the surprise, my mom came out of the kitchen, holding a glass of juice.

— Juice or soda, honey?

— Juice, mom! — I yelled, adrenaline running through me. I rubbed my eyes, almost asking her to pinch me.

My heart was racing as I thought Eddie had followed his musical dream and signed up for an audition at US Talent Week.

— It can’t be! — I yelled, euphoric, getting up from the couch and almost jumping around the room.

My mom looked at me, eyes wide.

— Quinn? What are you watching on TV?

— Eddie is there! He’s participating in a talent show... Look! — I pointed at the screen, excitement making my hands shake.

She came closer, leaning in to get a better view of the TV. When she saw Eddie, her expression changed from surprise to a knowing smile.

— The boy you liked as a kid? — She murmured, a playful sparkle in her eyes, realizing I hadn’t gotten over those feelings.

— We should go see him. Isn’t today his birthday? — My mom suggested, excited, as if it were a special event.

— It’s today, May 8th. Oh, I don’t have feelings for Eddie anymore. — I made a face, heat rising to my face.

— I thought Jack Quinn was your weakness! — She laughed, making me even more embarrassed.

— Jack is still my favorite, mom, but Eddie... is Eddie. — I crossed my arms, trying to seem indifferent, but the involuntary smile betrayed my enthusiasm.

— How lucky for you that Eddie is Eddie. Imagine if you liked an alien? — She joked, winking at me, keeping the mood light.

She observed me for a moment, as if deciphering my thoughts.

— Honey... do you still like Eddie? — She asked, touching my shoulder.

I wasn’t going to admit it to her. That would be pathetic.

— Eddie is my friend, there’s nothing wrong with thinking he’s cute! — I blurted out, forcing an uninterested expression, but my voice betrayed the nervousness.

— Friends are there to see and support each other. Be with him. If you went to see him perform, maybe he’d bring you a special day, twice over. — My mom smiled, trying to give me a little nudge.

I fell silent, her words echoing in my mind. I heard the noise from the TV as Eddie’s performance report quickly passed.

The longing I felt for him was so strong it hurt, wishing I could just barge into his house anytime and throw myself into his arms.

— Damn it, don’t give me advice, mom. I regret sending him away! — My gaze dropped to the floor, the weight of guilt suffocating me.

— It wasn’t anyone’s fault, neither of you. Are you hearing this, Quinn Josephine? — Her voice was soft but firm, trying to comfort me.

I sighed heavily, feeling the anguish rise.

— He would never forgive me for abandoning him at graduation... — I let myself fall back onto the couch, my head in my hands, trying to absorb the reality.

— Eddie doesn’t seem to have shown any anger. Or is he a genius at hiding emotions? — She crossed her arms, watching me with a serious but understanding expression.

— Not even I can, but he would know. And don’t try to push me towards Eddie Munson again. — I laughed dryly.

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exilynn · 15 days ago

Text

title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Eddie Munson X OC)

˗ˏˋ 𝕸𝖆𝖘𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖑𝖎𝖘𝖙 (x)ˎˊ˗

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ Spotify:

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie munson x fem oc( self insertion but you is quinn)

♥ warning:

A/N: first i got say, welcome. Second: I know in this fandom people dont like and almost is not looking for fanfic with "OCS", stories like mine aren't popular in this fandom, but i have a porpuse, this fic/au. can be the best love story of eddie and his love role(headcanon). so, please support me, you'll reblog for it can arrive the right persons, that they like OCS!

Good reading🫦♥️

14. True Blue

— Shall we go to the living room, dear? — He asks sweetly, opening the closet to get some blankets.

I smile and accept the invitation like a clueless person. Before that, I try to find Eddie's face between the blankets.

I get up from the bed and offer to help him, aware of the weight of the fabrics compared to mine. He refuses, but I insist, pulling the blankets from his hands. However, being clumsy, I end up falling with the weight of them on top of me.

Eddie struggles to contain his laughter when he sees me lying in front of the bed.

— If I hear a single laugh, you'll hear it from me, Munson! — I barked.

— How cute, your size doesn't stand a chance against the molecules that make blankets heavy! — He says, feeling like a physics genius.

— You think you're tall? Fuck you before I forget!

— Learn to swear, my dear... — He challenges me. — Hold the blankets more carefully, otherwise you'll drop everything before we get to the living room!

I get out of bed, wanting to punch him. Eddie can't stop laughing when he sees me panting from exhaustion.

— Eddie, stop laughing. I'm more of a man than you in many ways! — I exclaim, and he starts laughing even harder.

— We'll sort out this size issue later. You'll get something big later... — He says in an enigmatic tone, and for a moment, I wish I had played dumb!

— Quinn, I was talking about my hand. I can't believe you thought of something dirty! — He widens his eyes, feigning innocence.

— It couldn't have been your hands, you're so clueless!! — I reply, laughing provocatively.

— I think it's cute, my angry girlfriend. Can't I love that? — He asks, looking at me with those doe eyes.

—EDDIE, ARE YOU A MASOCHIST?—He's about to confess that he's Grey from Howling. But the one in the Nine and a Half Weeks version with Mickey Rourke.

— If you let me, I won't be able to hold back, my dear. Sometimes it seems that, besides being hot, you're also cute...

— You want to throw me on the bed and fuck me, do you? — I tease him with dirty thoughts.

He is speechless, swallowing hard. To disguise the erection in his voice, Eddie throws the blankets on the couch.

— Eddie, um... Why so many blankets? Let's build a fort?

I try to understand his intentions, but he remains silent, leaving me tense and full of anxiety.

— Edward... Are you deaf or did you buy a ticket to Mars? — I pout, realizing that I'll probably be talking to myself.

— I want to try something with you... but first you need to trust me and get the sheet, okay?

— Whatever it is, don't talk to me in code because I'm not a bar product.

He gives me the cold shoulder. I agree to everything he wants to do, and Eddie throws a sheet over my head, but not completely.

Is it crazy to think my boyfriend is acting like a five year old?

Without much choice, I put the sheet on. He takes my hand and guides me to the door, where there is a window on the other side of the kitchen.

— I promise you'll have fun like when we were childhood friends! — He assures, pursing his lips.

— Why the hell are we wearing headscarves?

— There's a Halloween party here in the neighborhood, the birthday of the neighbor's niece's daughter, Dorothy. Why don't we dress up as ghosts and scare the kids? — He repeats, almost like a child asking his mother for candy.

— Well, you're a fan of slashers, but isn't this crazy? What if the kids call their parents to hunt us down?

— But you talk like I'm a maniac, I just want to have fun. What's wrong with that? — He understands my idea and smiles happily.

— I thought you didn't like children…

— I don't like spoiled children, but imagine? Scaring them? I want to practice being a father, Quinn!

— I'm claustrophobic with a sheet over my face, Eddie.

— I promise... — he sighs. — Come on, are you really going to deny your Eddie a request like that? — He pouts like a crybaby.

— I'm scared because it's dark outside and there might be thieves, I don't know.

— So what? I'll keep them out of my girl's way. Besides, the dark can be fun when you're not alone.

— You keep getting the impression that you want to have children. Make hairy babies! — I shoot, laughing.

— Like... industrializing them? That's inhumane, Quinn! — He steps away from me, taking a step back but laughing like a madman.

— Not in that sense, you idiot! I'm talking about planning fur babies with me…

— Ah, a love ritual? I'm one hundred percent up for it. — He smiles obscenely.

After that little direct flirtation, I decide to please him and go along with the childish and crazy game, perhaps it would give us some fun stories in the future.

— Let's scare the children, otherwise I'll lose more brain cells if I keep talking to you, love!

Eddie laughs and gives me a bear hug that nearly crushes me. I pull off the blanket and watch Eddie do the same. I approach the window to watch the movement on the street.

There's activity in the Mountain Park trailer park neighborhood.

As Eddie puts on the sheet and assumes the ghost position, we approach the window. He gives me an appraising look. Together, we imitate ghosts, making classic sounds like "Uhhh Uhh!"

The girls freeze, paralyzed with fear. We shake off the sheets, and the group of dressed children run home as if they were running from a maniac.

We laughed at their panic. I never thought I had so much fun outside of Halloween month.

— Mom, there are ghosts in Howling. I swear there are! — Says a girl, terrified.

We run after them, chasing them like crazy. But there comes a point when we give up on scaring them. Eddie suggests we go back to the trailer. We close the metal door, pull the covers off our heads, and laugh so hard my cheeks hurt.

Eddie says, breathless:

— Now they're going to talk about the Satanist panic. The girl called her mother saying there were ghosts in Howling! — He comments, still laughing.

— Don't make a fuss, it was fun, Eddie. No one is going to put you behind bars and if they try. They'll see me, I swear! — I say protectively.

— How cute. Honey, did you have fun? — Eddie runs his fingers over my cheek.

I nod, smiling.

After a few more laughs, Eddie grabs a blanket and spreads it on the messy couch. I'm curious to know what else he has in mind.

— It's okay, Klung. Since we caught the night breeze and you can't get sick.

— You'd be a great husband, taking care of me like that so I don't catch a cold. Oh, how sweet. And I want to hug you until I suffocate!

He can't help but smile and give me kisses all over my face and neck. And then we switch roles, and I shower him with my over-the-top love squared.

— Mmm... There shouldn't be such an addictive kiss — I murmur, pressing my lips together.

—Really? Hm, I think we invented love. Don't you think, Quinn?

— I don't really know what to say, I'm almost like Shakespeare when I'm in love... — I reveal, and he smiles beautifully.

— Of course, you can be whoever you want. Be yourself, and you'll be at peace, dear. — He stops talking and remains silent, watching me with those puppy dog eyes.

— What, Eddie? — I ask, worried.

— Nothing, it just doesn't seem real. I'm not the same outcast kid from school anymore...

— I don't understand. Is that bad, my beautiful star?

— No, but it's just... I never thought you'd make me mature so soon...

As I gaze at her cherry-colored face, admiring every detail, our eyes meet, creating a hypnotic connection on another galactic level.

Eddie clears his throat, and the unexpected sound makes me jump.

— I need to go to my room, but I'll be right back, darling... — He interrupts the moment of tenderness in which our souls seemed about to merge.

I see Eddie walking away and running towards the bedroom, quickening his pace. While he's gone, I try to find a place for my backpack, ending up leaving it on the couch.

I look around, taking in the details of the small living room. My eyes drift to the corner, especially to the bookshelf, where his collections of CDs and high fantasy books rest, organized alphabetically and by color, like the colors of the rainbow.

Eddie had a box of novels on his shelf, among them soft porn films. Next to them were the classic horror and slasher films.

Not satisfied, driven by curiosity and the urgency to find him, I search the whole house, but there is no sign of him.

Neither in the living room nor in the other rooms. When I give up trying to find him, I approach the shelf where his collection of CDs and vinyl records from the golden era are.

Eddie has diverse tastes and is a true lover of vintage eras.

Curious, I go there, open the little door and come across his CD collection. From Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, to a box set of Michael Jackson and The Beatles.

Suddenly, Eddie appears behind me. His hot breath makes me nervous.

— How long have you been spying on me, huh? — I jump in fright when he tries to surprise me.

— I think I just fell in love with your personal bookshelf…

— Do you like my collections?

— Your musical taste is very similar to mine. And worse, you're my mirror, damn it!

— Honey, we're like twin flames. — He winks, and I'm left speechless by his flirting.

---

Without saying anything, I walk away and go to the couch, feeling strange with the intensity of the moment. My hands are cold, a wave of nervousness invades me.

— How about something more... physical? — Eddie approaches the couch, placing his hands on the back.

He reads my lips with his eyes, studying every expression on my rosy face. I close my eyes and he presses his lips to mine. But I startle when I feel the collision, almost as if I were in space.

Suddenly, I push him away.

— Damn... what was that? — he asks, sitting next to me with a worried look.

The curly-haired man closes his eyes and leaves one half-open, looking at me sideways, as if he was waiting for an answer about the sudden kiss.

— Don't be tense. — I rub his arms.

Eddie looks at me intently, searching for answers in my eyes, the windows to my soul.

— So you say that my kisses on other lips are not good? — His words have a double meaning, but he sounds melancholic.

— What did you say??— I wasn't surprised. He knew how to make me tremble to the core. The epicenter of my fantasies, he knew the door to enter. Damn the time when I forget the key and he steals it.

He stands back, feeling a little awkward for seeming to force the moment.

— I'm a failure at giving love, at loving you. You're never satisfied. — He punishes himself, making me nervous.

— No, it was never about being enough to give love. You are my greatest love, Eddie. — I look at him seriously.

— My father was right, Quinn. Now I see how weak I am with women and everything I touch crumbles. Like dust…— He says, his face lowered and he squints his eyes, as if he feels angry.

— Your father never knew how to value the family he had. You are not where you came from, you are so worthy of love and acceptance!

I can't hide the anger I feel. Alanfiero should have seen his son grow up with a silver spoon in his mouth as someone to be proud of, and no, he didn't have to see Eddie as someone who was ashamed of his charming yet chaotic nature. But I love this guy and the chaos that surrounds him like a planet orbiting in space.

— My father abandoned me... I was just a child. He knew I wouldn't honor the Munson line. — He almost cries, and I take my hands in his and press them gently.

— No, my angel. You're Edward Munson. The dream of... women... — I stammer. It's definitely nervousness.

— Are you sure, Quinn? There's still time for you to run away from me, as if I were a Lich. — He scratches his neck, probably in denial.

— I'll swear at you if you ever stoop again, Eddie!

— I wish things in my life hadn't gone so wrong. You were the only thing that went right. And I don't want to lose you to any thoughtless choice...

I never know what to say to someone who is tormented, but I hope to become their point of comfort after Eddie finds himself.

— You are amazing to those who care about you and know who you are. Don't doubt for a second that people love you, Eddie!

— Make me see how you see me, Quinn? Please? — He asks with red eyes and my heart almost goes sick.

I'm silent for a moment and then I say:

— I will, but it will be my way. And that includes punches and kisses. Is that okay? Or do you want to give up?

— Damn, I can never tell you how much I love you. You're beautiful, perfect and mine... — He says passionately, pouring all his love into me.

I feel like a bowl full of candy. It's weird, but it's like being filled with sweet things, when Eddie declares himself to me like a sick man in love.

— About the kiss... I love the way you hold my face. And how you pour love into me. — I admit, a little shy and bold.

He looks at me, skeptical.

— You're sexy even when it comes to love. I want you to never change, no matter how much they want you to change, don't change. — He demands that I open up to him about every thought, with a serious but very enchanted look.

— I don't intend to. I just want you to not be afraid of being human. Cry as much as you want, as long as I can cry with you... — I assure, running my fingers along his jaw trying to record every tiny feature that the poet burns in a beautiful poem that captivates.

He still wears a droopy, melancholic expression, which makes me reconsider my approach.

— And if my kiss were classified, where would it be?

- I don't know. Argh, oops, defensive? Is this how basketball works? — I ask, not trusting my sports slang skills.

He looks at me, surprised.

— You know, right? Have you ever been involved with an athlete before? — He asks, curious.

— And does it matter, Eddie Munson? — I'm not offended, I'm just being a good actress.

— Did you hook up with someone, like, fall in love before you liked me? — He raises an eyebrow, pretending not to be jealous.

— There have been cases, but it was never real. Because I only have eyes for you. Even though I know you are the perpetrator of the crime: Ghostface's anonymous flirt!

He laughs, tries to contain his laughter, but he can't because his laughter alternates between funny and nervous noises.

— Guilty! Wow... I didn't know how to approach you otherwise! — He defends his behavior.

—I couldn't have suspected, Eddie. You've always loved the movie Scream since you were a kid! — I reply, feigning indignation.

— Okay, blame me. Hmm... Are you happy to spend the night in Munson's trailer? Or do you want to run for the hills? — Eddie rubs his fingers on the back of my neck and leads the way.

— I'm not going to lie, I got excited thinking about sleeping with you and smelling your weed and your Harley scent...

— Do you really exist, Quinn Josephine Klung? — He asks, holding my face like a puppy.

— Hey... How do you feel?

— Excluded from the Munsons, and that's been making me anxious for some time now. And ever since my heart was broken... — He confesses, unsure that I won't take this seriously.

— I can solve this with a punch. Who was it, Eddie? — I ask, with a hint of anger.

— It's not your job to hold my world up when it falls, darling. — He whines, but I slap his arm reprimandingly and make him look at me.

— The only weight you carry is that of being a badass guitarist who has no idea how amazing you are! — I say, holding his hand on my thigh.

— Ouch, my cheeks... — He mumbles, taking my hands and placing them on his face.

I carefully pull my hands away, not wanting anything to interrupt our more mature interaction with the adults. Since we are both fans of physical contact, which previously seemed like a challenge.

—Holding on to pain is like poisoning yourself, Eddie. — I suggest, trying to help.

He lets out a little laugh, but he knows I'm serious, that my conflicted heart is fine. A past of pain similar to his.

— You will still be loved for the paths that lead you to music. People will cry to take a picture with you. — I assure him, smiling and caressing his hands gently. I can feel him shiver at the touch.

— I don't want this concept of being the king of the world. — He comments, rubbing his hands on my legs.

— Alright, humble people!

— At the end of the day, I just want to do the right thing for me. For both of us. — He kisses my hand, and the warmth of it comforts me.

— I'm not perfect, Eddie.

— But you are, in your own way, and no one can change that. Because if you want to change. The guy can talk to me with my palette stuck up his ass! — He protests, pouting.

— You have no idea who you're loving, you'd run away if you knew I have shadows too…

— Who cares about shadows? We're all monsters at some point, love.

— How awful, Eddie. Am I Godzilla? — I say, a little sentimental but inside I want to laugh until I die.

— Oh, shut up. — Eddie seems to have an epiphany. — Damn, you make me take my clothes off with words.

I look at him, surprised at how emotionally open he is becoming.

— The nakedness of the soul is beautiful, isn't it. Hey, rocker?

— Maybe a little of your love has banished my pain and every damn shadow that comes back strong when I fall. — He admits, smiling.

With Eddie by my side, I know I can face anything negative.

---

Eddie attacks me when I'm off guard. He jumps on top of me, almost knocking me off the couch.

It seems impossible that someone can break another person's sadness, but he does, and I'm amazed every time. And we are a better team by helping to reintegrate each other's worlds. Polishing them like Lego pieces.

— Come on, tickle fight! — Eddie yells, knowing he's putting his life at risk.

— GET AWAY FROM ME, YOU STEAMROLLER! — I shout, but he pretends not to hear, acting like a disobedient child.

— It's not the way you smile. It touches my heart. It's not the way you kiss. It destroys me... — Eddie recites the Beatles, while pressing me against the couch. He stands up and makes me dance with him to the music.

His brief display of affection makes my eyes shine, as if stars were reflected in them. I dance in his arms, like in an old movie, only without the time travel.

Eddie spins me around, but I fall to the ground.

The rocker looks at me worriedly and starts patting and tapping my face to wake me up.

— DAMN... JOSEPHINE?? ARE YOU OKAY?

I regain my senses in seconds.

— I thought I was going to live in a sarcophagus, I saw some dark things. — I say, dizzily, and he steps back, embarrassed.

—I guess... I got a little carried away? — He feels guilty for his rash action.

I start to laugh at his insistence on worrying.

— Hey, this is love... I'm not going to die, calm down? — I call, and he comes back, sitting near my knees on the floor.

— Are you really okay or just pretending?

I nod that I'm “ok”.

— That's great, honey. What a scare, damn, you make me feel so free that I get excited like a child! — He describes how he feels when he's around me.

— You're a lovelorn idiot, but I love you. Because you bring out the best in me and I take care of my worst. — I exclaim, standing up and slowly sitting on the couch.

— Hm, maybe I'm a fool for that mouth, those autumn-colored eyes…

— God, you're so beautiful. Did you know that? — I hold his jaw firmly. And I twirl my finger around it.

— I love you. You make life seem painless. Like breathing is divine, Quinn. — He confesses, looking sincerely into my eyes.

I feel my heart melt with his sincere words. It's amazing how he can make me feel so special with his philosophical phrases.

— You saved my little girl who was sad and excluded, thank you... — I admit, feeling a comforting warmth envelop me.

Our lips meet in a sensual kiss, full of passion. Eddie's hands grip my waist as the kisses intensify. Each movement of ours seems to reach a hellish nirvana. Our bodies intertwine in the thin air, dancing to the sound of the music written on our lips.

No matter how cliché it is, this is how I feel. This is where I should be: in Eddie Munson's arms.

---

Followed by kisses, Eddie and I settle into the couch, exchanging intense glances as our hands intertwine.

— Mm... — I try to breathe, still out of breath, swinging my agitated tongue against the roof of my mouth. — You still take my breath away with that damn tongue, Munson.

— I love kissing your lips, making you philosophize in my mouth. — He smiles. — Hm, hey… give me a nickname? — The curiosity in his eyes is evident.

— Peanut? I don't know, hm, Snoopy? — I joke, playing with our hands.

— You're Woodstock, so small, you look like a dwarf sperm.— He says, unable to contain himself, still with a playful tone.

—Wow, do you hate me, love? — I feel offended, and I still have the mood intact of being at your feet.

— Snoopy drives Woodstock crazy, Eddie, so you're the beagle.

After exchanging couple comparisons, we laugh about it, and he starts imitating the beagle, with the same mischievous gestures, making us fall to the floor laughing. He notices my Corroded Coffin sweatshirt in pink letters.

— Now I get it... You're advertising my band. It makes me want to hug you! — He jokes, smiling like a fool.

— I'm a fan. Do you think I'm a squeeze toy, Munson?

— You're my toy, darling. — He says, his face close to mine, watching me melt like ice cream in the sun on Sunday.

Before he could continue with the compliments, I slapped him across the face without thinking much.

— HEY!! — He exclaims, surprised.

I remain silent, not knowing what to say. He looks at me, so I try to ease the situation.

— Oops, I think… I heard my intrusive thoughts! — I try to explain my wrongdoing.

He seems to doubt me, not understanding why I slapped him for no reason.

— Seriously? — He teases, mischievously. — Hm, don't you want to try again? — He challenges me, but I prefer not to go any further.

— Since when are you interested in sadism? Are you crazy?

Eddie looks at me intensely, as if he expects me to fall into his web of love. I feel a scent of boldness take over the room, between us, orbiting.

— I may have punishments for you, dear.

The threatening tone in his words makes me change the subject, but he doesn't let me escape. He draws my attention back like a spider hunting a fly, but with his thoughts rather than physically.

— You didn't answer... Do you want to be punished? — He asks, with a serious, almost magnetic look.

I try to divert my attention, feeling a heat rise in my throat. Eddie has this annoying habit of teasing me, and it makes me furious within seconds. I know there's some truth to this, but I don't want to admit it.

My eyes reveal what I try to hide, and he notices everything.

He keeps teasing me, making me uncomfortable.

— Do you want to hold back from kissing me or slapping me? — He whispers, in a seductive voice, in my ear.

I snuggle up to him, putting my face in his neck, feeling his intoxicating scent, without any malice, and he gives in.

— Everyone can see it, some can't. Quinn, you're my nirvana. Believe me, I was a corroded coffin — He confesses, caressing my face using the name of the band itself as a reference.

— How cute, oh...

— See how your fingers almost close together? I love your little hand close to mine. I never want to lose this contact... Stay with me, love me. — says Eddie, intertwining our hands.

— I'm here, aren't I? I'm not going to leave, okay?

Eddie's insecurity reflects the moment when life tore us apart, only to bring us back together, showing that in the end, we were made for each other.

— Sometimes it feels like you're going to run away, Quinn... I'm afraid you'll get tired of me. It was a beautiful fate, wasn't it?

I think about the answer, trying to be kind.

— I'm not going anywhere, okay? You saw all my torments and you didn't leave. You're here, and I love you so much, Munson.

Eddie hugs me, as if my torments were his too, and our pieces fit together almost perfectly.

— My Quinn, you shouldn't be ashamed of feeling things deeply, okay? — He comforts me, hugging me. I can feel his heart racing.

— Traumas are unpleasant things that devour the soul.

— Hey, don't wake me up if it's just a dream? — He says, his eyes shining with emotion and laying his head on my lap.

— Am I beautiful? In what way?

I don't believe someone like Eddie sees anything special in me. The darkness is still a part of me, but he seems to see beyond that, beyond dragons and dungeons.

— In any context, from behind, from the side, from the front, from behind... From the soul! — He answers boldly, making me laugh.

— I love how you take my pain away, you know... There's a song, a chorus, that reminds me of our moments. — He runs his fingers delicately over my belly.

“Which one, Eddie?” I ask, genuinely curious.

— I've heard every verse. I've cried so many times. Those tears won't fall again. I'm so excited because you're my best friend. So if you ever doubt. Wonder what love is. Just think and remember, darling. Those words whispered in your ear, I said; True love. You're the only one I'm dreaming of, Your heart fits me like a glove. And I'll be true blue, baby, I love you.

— Ah, True Blue... — I get emotional, feeling the depth of the music, and he gently wipes the tears from my face. — Is it about comfort?

— Yes, you are my home. — He kisses my temple. — Now, about dragons and inner demons, I guarantee that mine will make yours run. — He challenges me, with a provocative smile.

— I don't believe there is anyone with more demons than me... — I answer quietly, with doubt.

He lets out a laugh.

— Ah, Quinn, we can fight your dragons with kukris. We're friends, first and foremost. I swear...

— If you run away, I'll kill you! — I say, holding tightly onto his Hellfire shirt.

— Hey, do you want to see something? — He lifts my hands and I'm confused.

— Obscene? — I ask, trying to understand what he wants to show me, but he shakes his head.

— No, look, some people pass through your life like the seasons... Even if you don't believe it, you leave a mark on someone's life. Like when you compliment someone who has never received a sincere compliment. Or understand them in a way that no one else has ever understood. You have that gift. It was that gift that made me fall in love with you. Intensely...

— God, I'm not a goddess, Munson. — And with that he lifts his head from my lap.

— It’s weird to say this, but be kind to yourself. You’re also an essay that needs to be written with patience. — He says, clasping our hands together again.

I feel like two planets are colliding: Venus and Mars, who in mythology were lovers...

I can only smile, like an idiot.

— Do I have a fever? — He infers, looking at me adoringly, analyzing every part of me with his guitar-calloused fingers.

— You make me dizzy. Eddie Munson, before Quinn Josephine, didn’t know what sunny days were. He lived with hypocritical clouds…

He completes.

— That's maturity, even though you have the soul of a hellish child, I can handle your beatings as long as they end in passionate hugs and kisses.

— Stop flattering me. — I put my hands in front of my face, but he makes me remove them, patiently.

— Don't hide from me, I want to see that beautiful face.

— I've always been yours. We get distracted by trivial things, but we don't look at what orbits us, which is so simple and lovely, damn it.

---

After we spend some time exchanging caresses, Eddie turns to me and takes my hand.

— You don't even know, but so much nonsense went through my head about you being with that idiot Carver or Harrington...

— Were you jealous? — I pinch his cheeks, and he looks at me, angry.

— OK, DID YOU... LOSE? — He bursts into an awkward laugh. — Jealousy is cute, but not the crazy kind that suffocates, for God's sake!

— I don't... — He sighs deeply, moving away a little, stopping near the mossy sofa. — Okay, I was jealous. So jealous, especially when you talked about Harrington and didn't look at me first!

“Come here, jealous Munson.” I pat the couch like he’s a kitten, but when he doesn’t come, I pull him down onto the couch, covering his sullen face with kisses. Eddie can barely breathe, overcome by my affection.

— I wanted you, but I was just the weirdo you would never look at in a romantic, affectionate way...

— Shhh… — I exclaim, irritated, hugging him tightly.

—That idiot Jason almost grabbed you, just like Harrington's little quiff...

— Shut up and kiss me until your tongue thanks you?

The tension between desire and resentment makes me give in, and we begin an intense kiss, but slowly it turns into the kind of kiss that only the two of us know how to give — the one that is ours.

— I burn with you. My bones, everything. — He brings my hand to his heart, asking if I don't see his heart burning.

I can feel your irregular pulse, but I'm speechless. I just want to hear your heartbeat and be able to count it from one to a hundred.

— Do you enjoy excommunicating me from purity, Munson? — I tease, and we continue this back and forth.

— Of course, redhead... you're the very definition of fire in the ass, just like Charmander! — He intertwines his fingers in my red curls.

— Devour me? — I whisper, biting his right earlobe.

— Mmh… — He trails off, looking at my lips and how they move. — If you want, spit those words in my mouth. It'll be divine, Quinn.

I feel like there was more to be said, but appearances always speak louder than words. As in "Enjoy The Silence," words — like violence — break the silence.

heyy If you like, reblog, wharever, just support me 💗✨✨

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exilynn · 26 days ago

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title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Eddie Munson X OC)

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie munson x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Good reading!🫦♥️

(Just an attachment of your lovely author: Hm, regarding the choice of music in this chapter, it reflects an excessive feeling of longing. We know that this song has a darker theme, here it is portrayed more as the need to love so much someone. Which perfectly reflects Eddie in relation to Quinn.

9. Butterfly

Quinn

I feel a shiver run down my body. Every detail of Eddie Munson drives me crazy, and my imagination doesn’t give me a break. Those earthy eyes write a new chapter for my life. It’s not new that I’ve felt trapped by them.

I’ve never been a fan of eternal vows or sweet promises like birthday cakes. Those things have always seemed foolish and meaningless to me. Maybe because, in the end, everything went wrong. I’ve known pain, not love. But today... today I would feel honored to be the reason for most of Eddie’s songs. Corroded Coffin. The name of the band echoes in my mind from the days when I tried out to be a cheerleader.

I remember that day well. Standing in front of the poster on the school door, preparing to sign up. And there he was, in the distance. The shaved head, the same spark in his eyes. Still a boyish charm. But it was at the talent show, on a Saturday night, that I saw the band up close for the first time. Every song rocked my soul. And when Eddie played Still Life from Iron Maiden’s Piece of Mind album, that’s when I fell in love with him for the second time.

The distance was never just geographical. We were torn apart, but the connection should never have been broken. There I was, still a teenager, in love with my childhood friend. Clinging to him in a way that not even time could erase.

Eddie Munson was never what conformist society invented. Jason Carver? That jerk always tried to tarnish his name. The idiot never knew I was the girl he tried to push away from Eddie in preschool. That I spent years being tormented by Manchester, the most insolent of girls.

At school, Eddie was just the weird senior who didn’t fit in with cliques. But how lucky he was not to mix with the human trash of that place. He didn’t want trouble, but malice and prejudice shaped his hatred.

Life is a theater. Some are supporting characters, others try to be the star of the show. You can choose: to be the director or just a puppet.

Eddie doesn’t know, but he fills with pride those who see his personal and emotional growth. Since I’ve known him, he’s always been sweet, imaginative. He would talk about zombie robots and create worlds to escape problems. I remember the day I caught him drawing me as a halfling elf. He got embarrassed. I thought it was adorable.

No matter how absurd his creations were, I could never blame him for being who he is. Especially when everyone was against him, trying to bring him down. Jason Carver was one of them. He tormented him day after day. And I couldn’t stop the worst. The day Eddie Munson banished kindness from his own heart.

Just like spiders shed their skins, throughout life we go through transformations. But we tend to run from them—the fear knocks at the door, and we hide under the covers, stuck in our comfort zone.

When I think of that word—comfort—I think of the "weirdo" that Howling despises.

I believe in magical beings, not in the sense of heroes with superpowers, but in people who carry something special. Eddie is one of them. He’s always respected my essence, since we were kids. He would see a flower in the field and pick it to give to me the next day.

A modern fairy tale.

I’ve wronged Eddie and others. These nightmares are still there, shadows of my past. Maybe one day he’ll forgive me.

When you’re a kid, everything is colored by joy. There’s no space for sadness, unless it’s a fleeting pain. But adults... they only see the gray of problems.

Growing up is more than just getting taller. We have this habit of collecting pains, from the first scraped knee to the first broken heart.

Don’t let them write the chapters of your life. It’s your story. —You are the master of it.

One of the most special moments was in the clearing, behind the sports court. Eddie let me open my heart, he had access to my core, the part of me I never let anyone touch.

Sometimes, I suspected he was some rare type of American vampire. Crazy, right? I don’t know. But those hungry and thirsty eyes... If I were the prey, I would be the perfect feast for Lord Edward Munson.

The first time I saw Eddie defend himself was in the school cafeteria. Jason tried to face him while the gang lurked in the background, but Eddie seemed unconcerned and confident.

That was the third time I fell for him. The first was at the auditorium rehearsal, when Eddie played guitar for the talent show—though he stepped aside to make room for Ellen and her obsession with seeing all the cheerleaders shine.

I feared that cold look he wore in the halls. He would pass by me, head down, not seeing me, and I would feel a knot in my chest. But I’d see him when he joined the basketball team to help the Tigers, even having to deal with the opposing crowd and Jason’s lackeys. Basketball was never his thing. His thing was always music.

Eddie never belonged anywhere, but he refused to change who he was. Excommunicated or not, he kept the vest with the Iron Maiden or Dio patch. I never understood why people ran when he spoke theatrically.

There I was, buried in a book, while Eddie was always giving nerdy intelligent speeches.

— A toast to the dear dark phase of adolescence! The one that makes us cross the devil’s throat while the whole world runs away from us.

After years of being distant, I regret not going to his birthdays. Not being there when his father, the late Demeritus Alanfiero Munson, went out to buy cigarettes and never came back.

We got closer when I entered the same school as him—and after I had to kick Jason in the nuts to get rid of him. Somehow, before that, I heard Eddie’s mom mention that she and Jason’s dad used to be friends, just like the kids. I didn’t know if I believed that nonsense.

Today, seeing him find himself in the style he’s adopted is a gift. I’ve always loved Eddie with those metal rings, the denim vest, the leather jacket. I missed teasing him:

— Hey, do you still have the Hot Wheels cars?

Or hearing him talk about zombie robots and the most bizarre dreams.

Conversations with Eddie were never boring. He displayed an intellect that made people jealous. I would spend hours of my life talking nonsense and diving into his crazy theories, letting him take me along in the same breeze—a breeze that no weed could reach.

---

I’m proud of the person Eddie is today. And I miss what we were—inseparable friends, like Siamese children.

About the abandonment, when his father disappeared... As an adult, I returned hostility to Mr. Munson, but I remained a fan of Jane Elisabeth. Eddie’s mother had fairy-like hands in the kitchen.

The sweet curly-haired boy I met on the Mountain Park playground turned into someone with a heart colder than Antarctica?

I don’t see Eddie any differently than when he was a child. I think the changes that life imposes are just preparations for bigger battles.

I spent years anchored in the feeling of loving him in secret...

Eddie was my savior. For that boy, I would fight orcs, cursed liches, face storms and any supernatural force.

But could I save him this time? Take him out of the darkness that prevents him from fighting his own demons... or dragons?

I would try. Bring him happiness, make him forget the pain and sadness once and for all.

Because it was in the spring of our hearts that Eddie made something new bloom in my chest.

Blooming is funny, when viewed from another context. When you're a teenager, anything can take on a malicious meaning.

Sex: everything my mother said about it was a bizarre metaphor.

— I know you meant to say that when a man and a woman feel attracted, they have sex!

Jokes aside... damn the moment I let my mother know about my feelings.

My mind is a mess. I can’t stop thinking about him, I can’t fight this feeling anymore. Yes, REO Speedwagon, you were right...

And worse, I’m haunted by every conversation, every exchanged look, every touch that revealed his feelings for me.

I remember the last hug, the scent of the kiss in his sister’s car, a red Chevrolet.

That kiss put to sleep all the parts of me that hurt.

And Sandra, my mother, kept insisting that I not let Eddie fall for another girl.

— Where’s that Quinn who kicks everyone, who fights for what she wants? Where is she? — She pulled me to her chest and gave me a lecture.

No more resistance. It’s time to accept that my fate was written in the stars—and in every song that reminds me of every cell of Edward Munson.

Funny how you can’t escape love. If someone asked: — What is love, Quinn? — I would probably say that you can’t see it, only feel and live it.

Love is like Eta Carinae; like the star, it can’t be seen with the naked eye.

My mother fights for my attention.

— Who are you, daughter? — she asks with an ironic tone.

— Quinn Klung was swallowed by Demonstra! — I exclaim, sniffing.

She sighs.

— Daughter, I’ve lived loves... Childhood loves that I still remember.

— Mom, when we’re kids, we don’t have romantic interest.

— Well, whether you know it or not, I realized that you and Eddie have a connection that goes back years!

— That part is a lie! — I accuse, laughing.

— Are you contradicting me, Quinn? — She looks at me incredulously.

— Lie better, Sandra! — I retort.

Could I be one step away from a VIP ticket to the fifth circle of hell calling my mom stupid? Of course!

— You got me! But the product’s result doesn’t change the outcomes...

— No, that’s enough. What a stupid idea chasing after Eddie!

She looks at me disappointed.

— You know that pride is the cruellest divider of all.

She insists I’m wrong, denying the obvious.

— Fighting for love may be the most beautiful bravery, Quinn.

I assess the situation.

— I don’t expect you to see things my way. But that Gangdole made you forget about love.

— He’s not a Hindu god! — I exclaim, upset.

— Who cares! Would I call him a gang doll? — she mocks, surprising me with the sarcasm.

— Listen, Quinn. Sweetie, why don’t you resolve this situation? — My mom suggests, studying my reaction.

— Let Eddie be happy with another girl... — I murmur, denying what I feel, even though it’s no longer a secret.

— I doubt it. You don’t forget a love, no matter how many years pass. That boy hasn’t forgotten you.

I roll my eyes.

Today, I act with indifference, mostly out of fear of failing or being hated. After all, it’s been three years since I said goodbye to Eddie.

— Did you forget what Eddie used to say?

— Do you think he had feelings back then? — I ask, seeking honesty.

— Eddie never hid the love-filled eyes he had for you, even when you were just mischievous kids.

A heart speaks louder than elemental words...

— What should I do? — I ask, seeking her opinion.

Her look clearly says: "Go after him. Now."

There’s nothing more to do. It’s too late, doctor. The result of my medical diagnosis? It’s love.

— Alright... DAMN IT! — I roll my eyes and grumble.

— THIS ISN’T THE EDUCATION I GAVE YOU! YOU’RE LUCKY YOUR DAD ONLY COMES HOME LATER! — She warns, seriously.

— Now I just need to say that if I turn into a shoe, you die! — I joke, risking my celestial future.

— Are you playing with going to hell? Is that it, Quinn Josephine?!

And now comes the confrontation. I knew this was going to happen! Goodbye, cruel world!

— I see I lost the argument... If I don’t end up in a coffin by tomorrow morning, right? — I ironize.

— I’m not forcing you; your heart is yours, not mine... But letting something solid go because of pride is...

I don’t let her finish the sentence.

— And what if I can’t explain to him why I was afraid to say I came back?

She smiles.

— Oh, it’s natural. Love has the effects of marijuana. It’s a drug!

---

— Quinn, if you want to love, don’t leave Eddie waiting for you in the next reincarnation!

I exhale through my nose and count my breaths slowly. One, two, three...

I know that, for my mother, my happiness is above any whim of hers or my father’s. But at the same time, I feel trapped. Panic sets in and takes me with it.

She watches me for a moment before insisting:

— Even if I go to the audition today, I don’t think it would make a difference for Eddie to see me, Mom.

— Stop being silly and go after that guy, Quinn!

That morning, the house was quiet. My dad had gone out for a job interview, the fifth one in a week. They said he was well-liked by interviewers, after all, charisma and intelligence were his strengths.

Before we came to the U.S., he was one of the most respected detectives in our city in Brazil. All of that before working at a brokerage that eventually went bankrupt due to a scam by an employee. The bastard promoted himself at his expense, and my dad was even unjustly accused of trying to steal the boss’s position.

After saving up some money, a friend suggested he try his luck in the U.S. He fell in love with the country, especially with the government system. He learned English from Tom, this same friend, and two years later, decided we should move. That’s how we ended up in Howling, where I met the young rocker I’ve never regretted loving.

— You’re such a mom, but this matchmaker act doesn’t suit you, Regina!

She smiles, running her fingers through my hair.

— Go to Eddie already!

— Okay, Mom, but I don’t even know the address of the show...

— I’ll lend you the car. Call Antonella, use the GPS, and that’s it.

— So simple, right? You never give up when you set your mind on something. You had to be an Aquarian!

She covers her face with her hands, pretending to be desperate.

— Some Aquarians are good people, sweetheart. By the way, you’re me when I was younger.

I think about that for a moment. Maybe we are. She notices my unease and declares:

— Your thoughts make noise.

— Stupid mom superpower! — I grumble, lowering my head, waging a war against the tears.

— Go after the rockstar, Quinn! — she almost pushes me.

— Isn’t it better to stay home, stuff myself with food, and cry while watching a movie? Isn’t that more productive than getting hurt?

Love entering my life, and I: "Get out! I didn’t let you stay, buddy!"

Fear shouldn’t be our puppet master. We are the puppets, but we can change the game. As Metallica said in Master of Puppets:"Master of puppets, I'm pulling your strings. Twisting your mind and smashing your dreams. Blinded by me, you can't see a thing. Just call my name, 'cause I'll hear you scream!"

---

— Let your heart tremble like a green twig!

— Wow, Mom... I thought it would be hard for you to like Eddie.

She furrows her brow, trying to remember the teasing my dad used to do whenever Eddie was around.

— Your dad used to be tough on the kid. What did he call him again?

— Son of the Italian-American troglodyte?

— That doesn’t matter! Get your goals in your head and go after Eddie!

She disappears into the kitchen and comes back shortly after, placing the car keys in my hand with a nervous smile.

— Is this jealousy even about material possessions? For God’s sake, don’t crash the car! It’s new. Your dad bought it for me recently.

— Okay, Sandra. I got my license a while ago, so why the hell would I crash your car?

— Watch your mouth! — she scolds me.

Silence falls for a few seconds before she warns me:

— Be careful. Men are idiots on the road...

I roll my eyes.

— Should I still believe that the effects of love are butterflies?

She smiles.

— They are, yes. Almost like smoking weed.

I don’t even know if she’s joking.

My mom walks me to the garage door and hugs me tightly. The hug is suffocating, but at the same time, it brings a sense of security.

Before I start the engine, I send a message to Nel’s old number. Since graduation, when she found out everything, she wanted to stay in touch.

Me:

Hey, I know this might sound strange, but do you have the address where Eddie will perform?

Nel:

HEY, QUINNIE! I MISS YOU! How are you? After everything that happened?

Me:

I can’t say I’m okay...

Nel:

Oh, girl... 🥺 Are you going to see my little brother sing?

Me:

I am... and that’s why I’m asking for the address.

Nel:

MY COUPLE IS ALIVE! 🤧

Me:

You always wanted me to be your sister-in-law, right?

Nel:

I always did. You’re a person who comforts hearts. 🥺

Me:

Nel, stop it! I’m going to cry, and I don’t want to cry right now...

Nel:

I didn’t understand anything that happened in my car, but he said you guys kissed. He was really shaken and didn’t want to talk to anyone.

Quinn, he got home and locked himself in his corner, but you could hear the guitar crying...

Me:

I’m so sorry, Nel. I was so selfish, I know.

Nel:

No, you just got scared... It had been years since you saw Eddie, and now he’s a grown man.

But he got over it. You have a chance to start fresh now. It’s up to you to make that meeting happen.

Me:

I miss him...

Nel:

I believe you can fix this. Eddie still cares so much about you, Quinnie.

Me:

Wow...

Nel:

Hey, good luck with Eddie!

GIRL, FORGET ABOUT THE PAST!

I have to do something now, but we’ll talk later. You’ll be there, right?

---

The adrenaline spikes, my heart races. After pouring my feelings for Eddie out, now I’m scared. Feelings change everything.

Antonella sends me the address of the show’s filming studio, followed by screenshots of the location so I can arrive earlier.

With the GPS on my side, there’s no chance of being late for my... reunion with Munson. I start the engine, roll down the windows, and let the wind press against my face.

An hour later, stuck in chaotic traffic, I realize the cars in front of me are stuck. The traffic light is barely visible. Restless, I tap my fingers on the steering wheel and swing my legs. Anxiety grows, spreading like poison.

I turn on the radio, any station. And, to my surprise, Taylor Swift starts playing.

I almost cry. Like a child who lost their favorite toy and knows they’ll never get it back.

I wipe away the tears, grip the steering wheel tight, and try to get out of the traffic. A white Ford Cortina with green details cuts me off without warning.

— Use your damn turn signal when you turn, you stupid idiot!

What did I do to deserve this?

— TURN YOURSELF ON, OLD BAKERY GUY!

— Who do you think you’re talking to? Shut up, insolent girl!

— Bene, buona fortuna! — I snap back.

— What right do you have to curse me in another language, ragazza?! — He grumbles, then tries to flatter me. — You’re beautiful, but with that filthy mouth, you’ll never get married!

— And what do you care, mosquito slide?

I roll up the window, muffling his insults. When I see him gesturing, I think: Go ahead, point that finger and shove it where the sun doesn’t shine.

After another hour and a few curse words, I finally arrive at the show’s location. Ten more minutes are wasted before I find the backstage area.

As I walk through the hallways, a man approaches. I stop and ask:

— Excuse me, do you know where the contestant... Eddie Munson is? Sorry, Edward!

The guy stares at me, noticing my shaking hands.

— I think I know. And calm down with the shaking.

He watches me like I’m about to faint.

— Eddie’s a very special friend... and I’m... freaking out! — I explain, with pauses. My shaky voice makes it clear that I’m not lying about the urgency.

The nice guy, still noticing my nervousness, takes my hand and guides me down the hallway to the dressing room.

— Here, drink some water before you go in, — he offers, concerned.

I accept, trying to calm my breathing. But with every step I take, my heart races faster. Why the hell am I acting like a coward? I’m just going to meet my best friend! I’m not going to meet Satan himself!

— I shouldn’t be letting strangers in, but I’ll give you a chance, miss — he says, with a half-smile.

— I know you have no idea who I am, but... will you help me find him? — I ask, nervously.

— Relax, I’ll try to help.

He lightly touches my shoulders in a reassuring gesture.

— Thanks, I owe you one!

— No worries. It’s always nice to help someone cool.

We walk to a door at the end of the hallway.

— Here we are. This is the dressing room door. Want more water? You look... pretty anxious.

I shake my head, taking a deep breath.

— I think I’ve had enough water. Better face this head-on. After all, time waits for no one.

He crosses his arms, thoughtfully.

— There are things in life worth taking risks for.

Before he moves away, I grab his shoulder.

— Hey... can I know your name?

He smiles, a bit surprised, scratching his neck.

— Jack Quinn.

— Quinn Josephine. Wow, your last name is my first name!

— Maybe we’re twins from another life — he jokes, shaking my hand in a friendly greeting.

Only then, looking at him closely, it clicks. My eyes widen.

— Wait... I know you! Didn’t you do a Marvel movie?

He laughs.

— That’s me! That was one of my favorite roles... after another one that was even more fun.

— Oh my God! I knew it! — I hold back laughter, still shocked. — But... wait, are you from Howling?

— Not exactly. But let me guess... Brazilian?

I swallow hard, pushing a strand of hair behind my ear.

— Yes. I moved here years ago. Howling’s cool. Chill people... except for the bigwigs.

He laughs.

— And do you like it here? I mean... the food? You guys have amazing dishes in Brazil.

Has he visited Brazil? OH MY GOD!

— And what was your favorite? — I ask, getting into the conversation.

— Picanha and feijoada. They’re amazing! I lived in Rio for a while with my mom...

— I’m from the South. To be honest, I like the United States. The South is hell in the summer...

— I like hot showers, but I wouldn’t make a sauna out of it — he jokes.

I laugh.

— A lot of Europeans fled to the South during the war...

— And you said you’re my fan? — he interrupts, surprised.

My heart races. Of course I am! But I choose to respond more calmly.

— Yes... I’m a fan of your work. I’ve never missed a movie of yours.

Blushing, I lower my head a bit, trying to hold back the smile.

---

— Is there anything I can do for you? — he asks, genuinely willing to help.

I’m starting to forget that impression that artists are arrogant.

— If you see Eddie after the audition, could you give this to him? — I extend a small blue paper. — It’s the address of where I work, in a candy shop...

Jack takes the paper, surprised. His reaction makes me intrigued and anxious.

— Candy Kiss? My wife used to buy from there... She called the products "galaxy of scents."

— Wow, with all due respect, what a lucky woman. — I run my hand through my hair and continue: — As for the sweets, they are an explosion of flavors.

— Why do you call her lucky? As a former star in the film industry, don’t see me as an Adonis or anything like that.

— I didn’t mean to offend you...

He sighs and jokes:

— Relax. But, honestly, the pressure from the media sucks your soul. It’s like a starving bat.

He scratches the back of his neck and changes the subject:

— Don’t you have bigger aspirations than working in a candy shop, miss?

I lower my head, but then I quickly flash a radiant smile.

— Everyone dreams big at some point... To be honest, I want to be a bold and deep novelist. The kind of author who has an intimate relationship with the reader. Doesn’t that sound good? I mean... I want people to see me and say: "Wow, the author of that hot and raw romance."

He watches me attentively.

— Don’t stop feeding the imagination that was born in your mind and heart. I don’t know you, I don’t know what you love or hate, but if the world is cruel, keep walking. There will always be less wise people who will try to sharpen the knife to hurt you. In their minds, it makes them bigger, but they don’t realize how small they are... Because they don’t know the love that makes you kind.

I swallow hard, grateful to have found him in life’s crazy turns.

— Wow... Such advice, coming from my idol... I never imagined being face-to-face with you. Thank you so much! The phrase that keeps echoing in my mind, ever since I chose the lonelier path and became almost a hermit, is that people can sharpen their knives, but they’ll never erase my legacy.

— People are so trapped in resentment and trauma that they forget the kind side. I think we learn to be less bitter when we know love and realize that we make a difference in someone’s life...

Jack sighs, and his eyes lose their shine. Maybe out of compassion, because he’s never seen anyone suffer so much when talking about love.

— Quinn, does it still hurt? Or have you moved on from the pain of the last relationship?

I think about the wounds and share:

— At some point, it has to fall into the forgotten pages. There’s a key, a turning point, when you accept all the pain felt, no matter how much it burned. Free yourself from the weight, living for what you love.

He seems impressed by my simplicity.

— Do you think happiness has a recipe?

The question catches me by surprise. A film of my life plays in my head.

— Happiness? Maybe there’s no formula... I don’t even know if there’s magic to cure sadness. But what if it’s about facing your nature and dealing with the inner demons?

Jack nods, thoughtful.

— In my intellect as a lover of literature and philosophy, my view isn’t that different from yours. Because from sadness, a new version of us is born, every day.

We stay silent until I break it with another reflection:

— In life, we need to go through monsoons. I’m no expert in meteorology, I’m just a poet trying to make life less stormy. Turn the internal climate changes into something less furious. The force of nature that we carry here... — I point to my chest. — It can be fierce, but you can tame these dragons.

Jack processes my words and laughs.

— Dragons? You’ve got a Gandalf vibe. Has anyone told you that?

I laugh.

— Jack, please. He was a wise man who guided the hobbits and protected them from the orcs. A fictional character more important than an author...

— You’re being cruel, huh? What’s stopping you from escaping from Middle-earth? Or from being a wise girl like Gandalf?

I shake my head, amused.

— I’m just a nerd who dives deep into what attracts her...

He watches me closely.

— Hey... — I stutter. — Are you studying me?

— You’re interesting. I’m just lost in your ideas. Different from everything I’ve ever heard in my life. Maybe I’ll never forget this conversation.

He smiles, disbelieving.

---

I can only smile. I’m standing in front of my favorite actor, talking about the variations of events that life brings us.

Jack laughs and shrugs.

— Can we talk about this another time? — I respond, hurriedly. — If you see my friend before I do, send my regards to Eddie.

— Alright, Quinn. I’ll say you’re the nicest person to have ever existed on this planet. With all due respect...

— A trade-off? — I joke. — You’re cool, I’d spend hours talking to you about planetary changes or the most mysterious things if we were close, but I understand your rush.

He smiles shyly, showing modesty.

— The conversation was great. I knew you from social media and movies. Life is so much more amazing now that I’ve realized my dream of meeting you, Jack!

— It’s a pleasure. Thank God you’re respectful and didn’t approach me like most fans. Those people who used to chase me around hotels... — He confesses, and I look at him with compassion. I already know the frenzy that is being Jack Quinn.

I wave as he walks towards the stage.

— GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR FRIEND, MISS!

I thank him, but as I walk down a dark hallway, I stop in front of the dressing room door where, according to Jack, Eddie might be getting ready. I hold my breath, letting it out slowly, counting backward. With every second, it feels like I’m being engulfed by a whirlwind — but it’s just the wind, sweeping everything in its path.

I see a giant, hungry mouth, like a monster wanting to devour me. It’s my own inner tornado.

I want to run away or scream, but the desire to see Eddie is stronger — a desire to hug him, to relieve the damn longing.

At the last moment, I give up on the meeting, running away, full of regrets for having surrendered to fear, which often robs great destinies.

I run to my mom’s car, open and close the door, as if this could protect me from some evil force. I drive home, my hands trembling. I turn on the radio, and as I drive, Over The Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole starts to play.

I close my eyes, collecting memories lived and yet to be lived...

When I get home, I park the car in the garage and lock the door. I prepare to leave again and go to work when I hear a noise coming from the kitchen.

My mom appears, holding a knife, thinking there was an intruder.

She approaches, counting the steps until she finds me calmly peeling a fruit. Her eyes widen, and the fruit falls from my hand to the floor.

— QUINN? OH MY GOD, YOU SCARED ME! — She exclaims, placing her hand on her chest.

I look at her right hand, seeing that she’s still holding the knife.

— Mom, PUT DOWN that knife, I’ll explain why I came home. Unless you want to kill me, because let’s face it, I deserve it!

— Oh! I thought the house was being robbed... Sorry for the scare... — She tries to explain, visibly embarrassed.

I’m shocked, staring at her until she finally drops the knife on the counter near the dishwasher.

— Alright, it’s normal to think the house is being broken into! — I take a deep breath.

She’s surprised to see me earlier and starts asking questions, looking for traces of Eddie. Her expression betrayed the hope that I had managed to find him.

However, my response disappoints her.

— I went to see Eddie, but... I gave up at the last minute. I’m really stupid and weak... — I admit, hitting my face repeatedly.

She stops my action.

— Sh... Weak? You’re the bravest person I know. You need to eat. And I have to go to work...

— Did you get a new job in a family house? — I change the subject, realizing how rarely we have time to talk.

— No, this time it’s in the local emergency medical department. It’s my first day there. — She answers, excited, and I smile.

— You’re so useful, never doubt that! — I say, hugging her.

She returns the hug, stroking my head.

— Oh! Are you going to the candy shop? — She asks, curious.

— That was the plan. I’m going to Candy Kiss. Do you need anything? Do you want me to shop for the week before or after work?

— No, you don’t need to. I want you to be okay, daughter!

— Go to work, mom. Because while you save lives, I bring people closer to diabetes! — I tease, smiling.

— MY GOD, QUINN!

— And about giving up on seeing Eddie and blaming myself... It’s normal to get frustrated or run away, daughter.

She gives me a hug. That was the longest hug we’ve had.

Before leaving, she kisses me on the forehead. After that, I free myself from the warm and comforting maternal hug she gave me.

I devour a pear, throw my backpack over one shoulder, and head toward the garage. There, I grab the bike and head toward Candy Kiss.

When I arrive at the candy shop, I’m surprised by my boss, Yan, who has been waiting for me for a while. Before I can think about the scolding I’m going to get, he looks at me, waiting for me to speak.

I react with fear, but he hugs me and asks me to get used to his bipolarity. I think it’s funny that he doesn’t even try to hide the disorder.

After the scare, I put on the apron, with the badge that has my name: "Q. K."

The place is still empty, which is rare. Normally, we have a few customers at this time of the afternoon, especially as it’s already nearly night...

---

Damn audition time, and Quinn is not with me. When I think of her voice, which sounds like a metal song, I’m filled with fascination. I can’t let reason dictate my actions anymore; I won’t give up on my great love.

So, I ask my mom and Nel:

— Did you see Quinn? — I ask, looking in every corner, searching for any trace of her to ease my restlessness.

— Oh, your ex-crush? — Jane says, noticing how uneasy I am.

— Are you sure you didn’t see her? — I don’t know if I’m fooling myself or hurting myself, getting so hopeful that what I’ve dreamed of will happen today.

There’s little time left for my dream to come true, but without her, I don’t think I can get on stage. The number of people who will see me sing scares me!

I don’t want to depend on anyone for courage, but Quinn is my strength.

— I haven’t seen anyone... — Antonella seems a little suspicious for my liking.

— Son, this waiting is no longer welcome, wake up, Eddie! — My mom yells.

My love for Quinn is not meant to be in vain. Our love story doesn’t need to end like those broken-hearted quotes that every trucker has stuck to their dashboard.

Ignoring my mom, who questions my choices, I run towards the door.

But a man, leaning near the dressing room door, falls backward. I quickly apologize and help him up, continuing to lament the small accident.

In the end, I lift him off the floor and dare to ask:

— Buddy, by any chance, do you know if a girl with straight or dyed red hair came looking for me? She’s about 1.65m tall, distracted, has slanted eyes, but isn’t Asian, and keeps saying poetic things...

— No, I don’t think so... — He seems distracted, or is it just my impression?

— Alright, sure. Thanks...

Before I turn away, he stops me:

— Wait! Are you Eddie Munson? — He points his finger at me.

— I am... — I reply suspiciously. — I think you must be one of my dad’s friends. Huh? Don’t tell him where I am and tell him I don’t want to talk to him! — I exclaim, and he looks at me confused, trying to understand my outrage.

— I have no idea who your dad is... — He answers honestly.

Then, I lean against the wall, and gradually my body loses strength. Looking more closely at the man’s face, I notice a resemblance and say:

— I know you from somewhere... — I raise an eyebrow, placing my hands on my hips, trying to figure out my intuition that I’ve seen that face before.

— Jack Quinn... Nice to meet you. — The curly-haired guy extends his hand politely, and I shake it, but I still suspect I know him, not remembering from where.

— Forget it, it’s useless. I don’t even have time, but... you said you saw Quinn or did I misunderstand? — I ask, trying to smooth things over.

He scratches the back of his neck.

— Earlier today, a girl was here looking for you. But I think she gave up and... said you were friends?

— Oh, how I wish it was her... — I say, looking up at the sky.

— She left this address with me, hope it’s helpful! — The curly-haired guy hands me a piece of paper.

— Alright. Sorry for bothering you with my problems... — I scratch my neck and nervously smile as I take the crumpled paper.

— You’re not just friends. You love each other, right? — He butts in, but I take it well. After all, not everyone seems cool nowadays.

— Are you God or a prophet? — I joke, though it was sarcasm.

— Oh, I’d love to be divine, man! — He goes along with my vibe.

— So... Are you a cupid? — I squint my eyes and point again, guessing wrong once more.

— Wrong again!

Jack laughs, enjoying the many failed attempts for me to figure out the obvious, which he mentally deduces, just because my eyes betray the feeling through my dilated pupils when I say Quinn’s name affectionately.

— Who are you, and why do you speak as if you know more about my life than I do? — I ask, crossing my arms.

— Both of you hesitated, are afraid to admit that you love each other, and deny liking each other to the end. And you acted with me the same way!

— Damn, man. Have you ever thought about working for the FBI? — I joke, and he reacts positively and playfully.

— Anyway, if it helps, I married a friend. Looks like your heart is beating a thousand times an hour, huh? — He seizes the opportunity to philosophize, saying everything I practically feel for Quinn.

— You talk well, man! — I compliment with a slight smile.

— But hey, have you decided what to do? — He asks eagerly.

— I want to win her heart, captivate her, you know. But I’m afraid of being annoying...

— I think giving up now would be the stupidest thing, especially when you’re so close to your love. — Jack analyzes the situation carefully.

— You’re a philosopher, my friend. You remind me of one of my friends from school, Takamori.

— Really? Man, go after her already! — He encourages, tapping my shoulder.

— I’m going!

— Hey, there’s another note, I think she accidentally gave it to me. — He catches my attention, and I walk back to him.

I take the other note, open it, and realize it’s a letter. I put it in my pocket.

— Man, I feel like I know you from somewhere... — I point at his face, and he smiles, adjusting the curls that fall over his eyes.

— Maybe from a movie? — He says, winking.

— I don’t want this to sound rude or negative, but why didn’t you make more movies?

— I fell in love and got married... Now she’s pregnant with our first baby. It’s a girl! With the pregnancy in sight, I decided to look for a job, and this one came up. The salary is comfortable, but I’m looking for something better...

— Hm, you can do it, you impressed people with your acting, maybe you could go back to making small movie appearances... — I murmur, a little emotional.

— Maybe, who knows what life still holds. And... it was a pleasure meeting you, Eddie. Now, I’m going to guide more participants to their dressing rooms. Otherwise, who’s going to do it, right? — Jack says with a laugh.

— You seem cool, good luck with your wife’s pregnancy. Hope you get a job you’ll be happy with! — I say, smiling.

— Thanks, Munson. And good luck with the love of your life. Don’t let her slip away, even if you’re slow, like a turtle. Just kidding! — He mocks my slowness.

With that, I distance myself from the ex-actor who almost gave me a coaching lesson. I run out of the place. I jump on my Harley-Davidson quickly, turn the ignition key, and press the accelerator hard, heading toward the candy shop.

This time, I won’t run away from you anymore, Quinn Josephine...

5 notes · View notes

exilynn · 30 days ago

Text

title: 𝕰𝖈𝖍𝖔𝖊𝖘 𝕹𝖔𝖈𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖘( Modern Eddie X OC)

synopsis:

"They say that the legend of Nocteris echoes only in the hearts destined to meet. But what if this echo is so strong that it transcends time and memory?"

Love never made sense to Eddie Munson.

With a cynical view and a shielded heart, he believed that fate was always against him. Until a girl came into his life, and everything changed.

He rolled a 2 and saw her for the first time, laughing with her friends while he played with his band.

He rolled a 5 and, that night without rules, she gave him a glimpse of something deeper in the night.

He rolled a 7 and showered her with compliments at graduation, and for the first time, he saw her beyond the idealized girl – she had something much deeper.

He rolled a 10 and, while she was going through her own inner struggles, he found himself wanting to protect her, but not knowing how.

He rolled a 12 and, after a night full of laughter and confessions, he realized that she was changing his view of love.

He rolled a 15 and, even when everything seemed confused, their hearts were more connected by the echo of feelings.

♥ format: longfic; canon divergence, headcanon's

Characters:

♥ pairing: modern eddie x fem oc( self insertion)

♥ warning:

Good reading! 🫦♥️

6. Sounds Like A Melody

Eddie Munson

After our argument, a brief act of rebellion took over me, along with a strange emotion I can’t define.

I scared Lily. I froze her with fear.

I’ve never been so stupid with a cool girl, someone I could see a future with, or at least have a mature interaction with.

Anger is a bad habit that has followed me since adolescence. And when it manifests, I’m a fierce tiger.

Many people think that words spoken in the heat of hatred are just impulsive rants. But no. Hatred corrodes the warmest part of the soul.

And when you release it, it strikes with more ferocity than a hungry shark.

Spat-out words are sharper than a razor. More acidic than lemon.

Lily Hansol was the only girl who treated me well in this town. From the first day, she accepted my weird rebellious teenage ways.

I used to be a happy kid. But something changed when my parents stopped loving each other—or rather, when my dad forgot what it means to honor what he carries between his legs.

Old Munson thought a nice pair of horns was the perfect Christmas gift for my mom. Like she was some damn reindeer for Santa Claus.

I remember telling Jane: "Shave the old man’s balls or cut them off and use them as a Christmas tree ornament!"

Ah, Alanfiero Munson... You were an idiot. A complete idiot.

My life is a mess, but Lily... Lily is the thread of hope that keeps me standing.

And I hate when she acts like Quinn. It triggers something inside me, a sense of threat.

Looking at all this now, I see how foolish I’ve been. I knocked down the house of cards I built to reach her heart.

In the end, all I did was end up on the floor. A real freak.

Munson, you’re an idiot.

Maybe Lily’s hoping I won’t chase after her. But I’m incapable of apologizing in a genuine way.

This emotional block always ruins everything.

But if I don’t act, if I don’t apologize, I might lose the best thing that’s ever happened to me.

I let my apology be seen in a hug. When we separate, the redhead looks at me like she’s saying:

"The animal I helped out of the cage now scares me!"

— I don’t understand why you hugged me suddenly... — she hesitates, trembling.

— You think I was going to let you walk away? You’re completely wrong. I want you to be my queen at this dance. Okay? — And here I act all romantic.

I can’t look away, addicted to her eyes. After the tide settles, we sit at a table and start talking again.

— To me, Eddie Munson is captivated by RPGs, rock, metal, sex, and drugs...

— The sex part is so-so... But hey, do you know Critical Role?

— No... Is it a game?

She asks with interest, and it makes me scream inside.

— No, it’s an American web series where professional voice actors play D&D...

— Eddie, you’re fascinating when you talk about things I don’t know. Keep talking beautifully, and I’ll love it.

— My intelligence is the result of sums won as a DM. I don’t want to brag, but I kick Lich asses!

— I’m afraid of being invited to Hellfire... You’re wise, and I’m just an invisible nerd.

— If you want to join my "cult," you need to stop insinuating that you’re weak. Or would you prefer to punch me to test your strength?

— Your club isn’t a cult! Want to duel with the Queen of Hell? Forgot I can fight like a man, rocker?

She raises her fists in front of me, but I compare her strength to mine.

— I thought you were the queen of pom-poms! When did you get promoted to the queen of hell and didn’t tell me?

— You like provoking the queen of hell?

— I’m not afraid of your beast. But if you fight with a dwarf, that’s your problem. You’ll feel the power of my hammer!

— Life isn’t a game of Dungeons & Dragons!

— I bet a punch that you’re not stronger than me!

— Want to test it?

— Hansol, you’re a walking contradiction.

— And you, a rocker with cheap pick-up lines!

We’re on the same team, but does that mean we’ll duel or team up?

— What if I made you change your mind? — I lick my lips.

— Oh, how?

I prepare to present my marriage... I mean, friendship plan.

— I’d take you to the Valley of Love and show you a hidden beauty that no one sees... There’s just one problem: dating you is a guarantee of waking up bandaged like Eddie from Maiden...

— Promises are useless, Eddie. Words are carried away by the wind.

— Then let’s talk about trivial things... For example, I’m greedy and impatient.

— Normal. But I doubt you’d put up with my crazy habits, rocker.

— I’ve faced worse. But you’re like ice cream, and I’d love to get messy with your sweetness...

She smiles, looking firmly into my brown eyes with her black ones.

— Was that vulgar? It was just a creative compliment!

I swallow hard.

— It was great! But did you mean sensory or metaphorical taste?

— If I tell you, it’s going to be a long story...

I tremble my hands. She touches them.

— Luckily for you, I like reading, Eddie Munson...

With those doe eyes, she signs an invisible contract.

— About taste, there’s no arguing, right?

She shakes her head, compassionate.

— Want to skate?

— Perfect. Either you fall or I fall. No escape.

We walk hand in hand to the rink. Lily smiles and stares at me.

— What’s this? Your hand feels like hell...

She feels the heat of my fingers. I bite my lips unintentionally.

— Jesus Christ... — I whine, almost falling.

— Eddie?

She touches my lip, checking the injury.

— Where does it hurt? Tongue? Lip?

She stretches her hand to touch me again, but I pull back.

— No need, halfling!

Nervous. Yes. Every time she appears, grabs my hand, my heart races faster than a NASCAR car at full speed.

She takes my hand, and the sweet fragrance she’s wearing reaches me.

Normally, I don’t associate people with perfumes, but Lily smells like gardenias with lemon—just the right amount of bittersweet.

The redhead walks without hesitation on the rink ahead.

Facing each other, we look up and see a starry ceiling above us. The principal stopped being an old capitalist. And, I don’t want to brag, but my speech must have moved the guy.

Why did he suddenly forget his stinginess and gift the students with a cliché decoration inspired by the ‘80s?

Besides, he rented an ice rink for the graduating class.

Looking up, my childish side is enchanted by the branching constellations and the neon lights. The DJ does his part, playing Slave to Love by Bryan Ferry as the soundtrack for the couples skating.

— Your eyes steal the shine of the stars... — she says, complimenting me again.

Since adolescence, I’ve never known how to react to sincere compliments. Especially from girls. I’ve never spoken to them, except through looks and kisses.

None of those times were meaningful, involving something more emotional.

— Hey, you’re distant... — Lily watches me, worried. — What are you thinking about?

— Nothing...

— Really, Eddie?

— Are you going to call me a coward if I say I’m afraid of falling?

— I’d teach you how to hit the ground face-first. — She fumbles her words. — I mean, to skate!

— You’re a remedy for someone’s anxiety, did you know?

— Of course, you’re a headbanging rocker! — She suppresses a laugh, pressing her lips together.

The joke makes me laugh inside, but I don’t let it show.

We walk to the place where they rent skates and ask the attendant for a pair, who doesn’t stop staring at me.

— A pair, please. — Lily asks politely.

— What size do you wear, little shoe? — I provoke.

— Oh, shut up!

She pushes me on the shoulder, unable to find a better response.

The old man laughs, nudging his colleague with his elbow. He soon hands the pairs to Lily after she whispers the size in his ear.

— And for you, rocker? — The attendant stares at me and winks several times.

— Eight...

— YOU’RE AN ORC!!

— Wait, don’t exaggerate. Call me a druid, okay? Or Dracolich, with an armor class of 19 and about 225 hit points!

— Ah, sorry, but you’re more of an orc!

The man breaks eye contact and asks:

— Boy, aren’t you the millionaire’s son? The guy from the perfume company in Howling?

I scratch my neck. Where’s this flattery talk going? Not even my uncle, who’s practically a blood brother, covered up the old man’s flaws.

— How about you never involve me in Alanfiero Munson’s schemes again? — I shoot.

The man looks at me, stunned.

— You hate your father?

I interrupt the drama and can’t hold back:

— Stop sugar-coating Al Munson. I know the worst side of him, and I’m not proud of it. But I’m not here to talk about him, okay?

Lily looks at me in disbelief for answering so harshly.

— Fine, we won’t talk about it anymore. By the way, what size do you wear?

— I already said: eight... or are you two going to make fun of it too?

— You know the law of retaliation, "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." Eddie, you called me a gnome, but you’re an orc. Don’t complain, because you already had a counterattack! — Lily warns, and I roll my eyes like a teenager.

— Here are the skates, boy. — The old man puts the pairs on the counter. — Your father gave an interview this morning and spoke well of you...

— That’s great! At least he sees something good in me, right? — I ironize. — I hope you wake up too, along with the rest of the population.

— Don’t be rude. The man doesn’t know what’s going on between you two. Have you ever thought that maybe your father really loves you?

I shake my head, but deep down, I know I’m wrong.

— I’m not forgiving shit... — I respond, as if I were being judged for a crime I didn’t commit.

Annoyed, I rip the skates from the man’s hands and extend the money, but he explains that since it’s our graduation, the principal covered all the expenses.

— Sorry, Eddie, I don’t want to interfere in your life.

— Just forget what happened, okay?

---

Back on the rink, I start to shake just thinking about breaking a leg while skating with Lily.

— And what about the bad boy rocker? — she teases. — If you fall, I'll catch you!

Well... if Newton hadn't had an apple fall on his head, would he have become famous?

My nervousness evaporates when Lily takes my hand and gently guides me across the slippery rink. To anyone watching, the clearest image must be of Lily Munster and Kas, totally clumsy, trying not to fall on top of each other... until we do.

— You think I'm the floor, Edward Munson?! — she grumbles, trying to pull away.

— How was I supposed to know I’d slip on this damn rink?!

She tries to stand, but each move brings our faces even closer. I can feel her warm breath against mine.

— Maybe you should... — My voice fades when she moves again, and our lips nearly touch.

My hand finds her waist, trembling. I force myself to stand up first and pull her up with me, helping her balance.

— Be careful not to break another leg!

Ignoring childhood memories and a cast scribbled by Quinn, I suggest we head back to the indoor bar.

To quiet my thoughts, I buy a snack.

She accepts, which is unexpected. Does this mean she knows me well enough to know I'd share... Or does it mean something more?

I bite into the bread, satisfied. There’s nothing better than food when the mind won’t stop.

But I can’t ignore the thoughts. Or the desire to repeat the kiss from earlier.

Lily smiles and slides her hand up to my neck.

— You want to kiss me, don’t you?

Before I can say anything, she pulls away. But I see it in her eyes... the truth behind the lie.

She’s fallen for me, she just won’t admit it until I kiss her again.

The kiss in my van keeps playing in my mind.

I’m a man. And a man knows when he can intimidate a woman who secretly desires him...

— I'd love to see it with you, but it would have to be on a day off... — she murmurs, excited.

— Did you have fun watching me scared to skate?

She nearly has a meltdown from laughing so hard.

— Yes! I had a childhood friend who couldn’t skate either... But you caught on really quickly!

I raise an eyebrow, tilting my head like a confused puppy.

— Poor guy, right?

Now, it doesn’t leave my mind.

It’s Quinn.

Linda Hansol doesn’t exist.

— I swear... Pinky Promise! — She kisses her pinky finger, as if sealing a pact.

A silence falls between us, but my heart decides to speak up in an unexpected way.

— Sometimes, I can’t believe you’re real... Did I make you up? — I murmur, feeling the fast beat in my chest.

Lily tucks a strand of hair behind her ear. Before I notice, her hand rests on my leg, activating a point I didn’t expect to react so... strongly.

— What level do you think I’d be in D&D? — she asks, expecting honesty.

— Dwarf, level 1... — I risk it, but really, I’m shaking like a nervous Chihuahua.

— That’s cruel! — she protests, raising an eyebrow. — Why so low?

— It’s not just the level that’s low... — I pretend to measure her height with an imaginary tape. — You’re less than fifteen centimeters.

— So what? — she frowns, indignant.

No matter how much time passes, she still looks at me like she wants to throw me into a Roman gladiator arena. Luckily, the happy hour ends before she decides to truly challenge me.

Antonella shows up with an unexpected announcement:

— The principal canceled the dance. Technical issue with the lights. He sent everyone home before the blackout.

— Wait... what? LILY?! — My sister eyes Linda from head to toe.

— Do you two know each other? — I ask, more lost than blind in a shootout.

— What are you doing with Eddie? And why did you disappear from school? — Antonella continues, shocked.

— Now I need a GPS too!? — I interrupt.

— Eddie... the dance partner you kept secret. She’s my missing classmate!

Linda freezes at the revelation.

— He invited me at school. Didn’t he tell you? — She glares at me before looking at Antonella.

— No, he didn’t say anything.

— You kept my identity secret so well... Wow. — She smiles, amused.

— Alright, couple, let’s go?

— WE’RE NOT A COUPLE! — we say in unison.

— Better get out of here before we become the protagonists of a horror movie. — Antonella hurries. — I don’t want to die and see Carrie behind me!

— I’m Ghostface. — I give her a slight shove.

— Oh, if I could get revenge dressed as Ghostface... — Lily smiles, mischievous.

— I wouldn’t mind wearing the mask and making Carver piss his pants. — I admit, feeling the old aversion to Jason bubble in my chest.

— So, is the blackout thing real or are you just trying to ruin my date? — I narrow my eyes at Nella.

— The party’s going to continue at one of the popular kids’ mansions.

I put my hands on my head.

— Of course it is. I bet it’s at that idiot Carver’s house!

— The night hasn’t even started, Eddie.

But I already know Carver is just waiting for a chance to ruin everything.

In a few minutes, we leave the hall and head to my sister’s Chevrolet, which will give us a ride that night.

Outside, the moon shines, and the stars seem to dance a Rock ‘N’ Roll in the night sky.

As soon as we get in the car and close the doors, I ask Antonella while adjusting my seatbelt:

— And the Howling crew? Where’d they go?

— Takamori left early, had to take care of his sister since their parents traveled. Stiles and Jay... well, they didn’t want to interrupt you and Lily.

Linda touches my arm, hesitantly.

— Eddie, I feel guilty for pushing your friends away... It wasn’t my intention.

— Don’t worry. I’m always with them. But with you... this is unique. — I make it clear what really matters to me.

Antonella lets out a laugh through her nose.

— Turns out, she’s right, huh?

---

Linda still blames herself, even after I assure her she didn’t do anything wrong.

— But Jay and Stiles were hoping to stay with you!

— Redhead, listen to me, okay? I don’t care if they left. I came with you, alright?

— Guys, stop fighting. Look... Isn’t the moon beautiful? Perfect night for lovers’ howls.

Antonella points to the sky, where the clouds dance to the rhythm of the wind. Lily, however, falls silent in response to the indirect jab.

My sister, of course, was determined to get me to kiss Linda. Out of nowhere, she pulls a professional camera from her bag and snaps a photo of us without warning. Then, she demands a closer pose.

— No, I want a couple’s pose. Is that okay?

We exchange hesitant glances. We end up putting on the robe, and Antonella lets out a dramatic sigh.

— How cute.

We both flip her the bird when she presses the button.

— Perfect. Anyone who saw you would think you’ve been a couple for ages...

I give her a deadly look, but she just laughs.

— Eddie, do you give Lily tickles? That evil stare doesn’t suit you, girl!

— Don’t even think about it. — The redhead warns, serious.

But it wasn’t just a sisterly wish... It was a sister-in-law wish too.

Quickly, I move away, almost blending into the car seat.

— Guys, I’m going to smoke up front. Mind if you stay here alone?

— Of course not... But don’t take too long, okay? — Lily replies, visibly nervous.

Antonella gives me a mischievous smile and winks before heading out.

Minutes pass, and all we hear is the sound of fireflies outside. I’m scribbling on the car’s fogged-up window when I decide to speak:

— Hey...

My voice falters in a way that almost causes my whole system to short-circuit.

— Hm? — Lily looks at me intently.

I can’t help it. My eyes fall to her lips, the perfect invitation to the delicious hell of her mouth.

— Would it... be wrong if I...

Lily keeps her gaze locked on mine, her brown eyes driving me crazy.

— I know what you want...

A wave of anxiety washes over us. I swallow hard, my throat dry, and my voice falters.

— Want to go home? You don’t have to stay with me tonight.

She bites her lip but doesn’t break eye contact. She seems to think carefully before responding.

— I feel comfortable with you... But you make me shy every time you look at me with those bat eyes...

— I can’t help but want to do things with you... Maybe you should go home.

Lily tilts her head.

— You want me to go?

I shiver inside, not wanting to scare her, but also not wanting her to leave.

— Jesus, no... It would be foolish to let you go.

She smiles and starts playing with one of my rings, the skull one.

— I like this one and the mood ring... But I didn’t like the other one. I’m a bit scared.

— It’s not like they’re going to grow legs and attack you!

She laughs, and the vibration of her laughter makes my soul, scorched, rise from the ashes.

— Do you want this skull ring? I’ll give it to you, but you have to make an oath...

Lily raises an eyebrow, smiling mischievously.

— For Vecna? No way, Eddie!

— What??

She points at me, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

— You... are Kas.

I open my mouth, surprised. Then I start laughing with her.

Still smiling, I look deep into her eyes, feeling the nervousness replaced by a warmth in my chest.

— Swear you’ll take care of this ring?

Lily slides it onto her ring finger, her touch full of tenderness. When she pulls away, I feel her breath against my ear, and a shiver runs down my spine.

My gaze stays locked on hers, desire and intensity overflowing between us.

— Is it cheesy to thank you for coming to the dance with me?

She shakes her head.

— No. It’s cute. I think I’m exactly where I always wanted to be.

A tenderness floods me, but also a rare kind of courage in me.

— Funny. People always say I only bring darkness...

Lily looks at me with compassion, as if she wants to hug me and never let go.

— Eddie... Stop seeing yourself through the eyes of others.

I swallow hard, nervous.

— I think I’ve gotten used to seeing myself as the freak Jason says I am.

She holds my face between her hands, firmly, making me look at her.

— What he says doesn’t need to be our problem.

My chest warms. She sees me like no one else sees me.

— You’re right... As if I care about what half the world thinks about me.

I let out a sigh, gathering courage.

— I hope to be loved by someone like you one day.

Lily looks at me deeply, and my nervousness is replaced by something softer, warmer.

— What if love isn’t as far away as you think?

She slides her hand under mine, in a gesture that undoes me inside. When I’m about to hold her face, I want to find a way to thank her for seeing me...

Our eyes meet. There’s silence. A silence full of electricity.

I move closer.

Lily doesn’t pull away. On the contrary, her eyes gently close, her lips parting in expectation.

The world stops when our lips meet.

The kiss is fire, desperation. Our tongues touch, explore, tear down walls. My hands find her neck, and Lily smiles during the kiss. I smile with her.

My fingers slide over her flushed face, playing with her red locks. Our breaths mix in a frenzy, hearts racing, beats uneven.

For a moment, the wounds I’ve carried for years don’t hurt anymore. The fear disappears. The only thing that exists is Lily.

I pull her closer, feeling her surrender completely.

— Mmm... Jesus, you’re burning. — She murmurs against my lips.

— Never felt the fire of hell before?

She smiles at my metaphor.

— No. Are you going to show me?

We separate, breathless, and I still taste her on my lips.

And mind you, I’ve had several flings with different girls... But it never went beyond false desire.

Without feelings, life isn’t lived. And I’ve lived too much in the shadow of empty affairs. Now, knowing the warmer and more beautiful side of love, I want to erase the past and write new chapters.

Even though fear chains me to the mistakes of youth, I accept every single one of them. But love found me.

If it’s Lily... then I can die happy.

She looks at me, a mix of shyness and gratitude.

— We kissed... And your sister was close...

I shrug.

— I can only think about how hot I am...

Lily just nods, a playful smile on her lips. But Antonella breaks our eye contact.

---

My sister closes the door, and we watch her leave in silence, looking out the window with her hand resting on her chin. The clever brunette doesn't demand any explanations.

She leaves us at the mansion. Through the car window, I recognize Chance's house, Carver's friend.

— Behave. I won’t come get you if you get into trouble.

She unlocks the doors, and Linda and I get out.

— What are you going to do alone at this hour of the night? — I barely notice, but it sounds like an invitation.

— I'm going to check out the moon and then come back. I don’t trust leaving Jane Elisabeth Munson drinking alone... Now go! — She tries to cheer us up.

Alone on the deserted street, I see Lily kicking imaginary stones, maybe a manifestation of shyness. When I try to reach for her hand, she pulls away, still tense from the kiss we shared.

When we reach the mansion, we open the back door. Strangely, there are no seniors or "young adults" around.

— Oh, crap... — Lily mutters, losing her smile.

— What? — I look around.

— The popular players... Ellen is here too. I need to leave!

My theoretical rivalry was with the Raven's captain.

— I didn’t leave my damn house for nothing. Come on, stick with me, no one will dare.

My mind whispers: "Kiss her. You can comfort her!"

But following my heart all the time is exhausting.

— You don’t have to do anything, but if Carver were here, he might kick you out. Not that milk cow!

I laugh at the nickname, but not when Lily insists on seeing Carver as someone of great power. That crap bothers me.

— You’re cursing better now, huh? — I compliment, giving her a light tap on the head.

— You’re smart about a lot of things, but right now you’ve been slow, Eddie...

— What have you done besides being friends with the milk cow?

— I kissed the guy Ellen liked... Get me out of here before I see that bitch!

— Calm down, you’re like a loose pitbull. If you rip someone’s arm off, it’ll be my fault!

— Ugh... I should have confessed to him... I’m so stupid for letting Ellen declare first...

— Was it Carver? — My jaw tightens. — I have to admit, he’s lucky to have someone like you liking him...

Why the hell am I jealous of something that’s not even mine? We’re not even dating!

— I’m leaving, Eddie. If I see that girl, I’m having a heart attack! — She pulls away, distressed, but I gently pull her back.

Heart attack? Dude, hearing that was so cute...

— No way, babe. It’s your night, everything will be fine. If she wants to pick a fight, she can come for me. Let her come, and I’ll use the panther move!

Lily gives a sweet smile and asks something unusual:

— Growl again?

— It wasn’t a literal roar!

— It was almost. You’re acting strange with me... I like it.

— I want to protect you like Gandalf protected the dwarves from the trolls. You don’t mind, right?

— That’s cute. — She walks toward one of the rooms. — Eddie, ring the bell and run with me. Being a kid sometimes doesn’t hurt!

— I can’t believe I’m going to do this stupid thing with you... — I lament, cursing myself for already considering it.

•••

As soon as I agree to the girl’s crazy idea, I stop in front of the door, which seems to open to an empty corridor. We’re about to knock when a group of young people bursts in, knocking us to the floor.

Lily and I fall in a domino effect on top of each other.

This time, the fall was worse—embarrassing, comical, but in my eyes... romantically intentional.

— I have a plan. Shall we fake a couple’s fight? — She whispers in my ear.

I stand there, stunned.

— Go on, Eddie, say something. Pretend we’re a couple.

I activate my "actor" mode on autopilot and start pretending to argue.

— Girl, at least let me explain?

— No, Edward Munson! I’m tired of fighting about stupid things and the nonsense you get into!

Linda would make a great wife... crazy, but great.

— I’m going to punch you! — I pretend to threaten, adding a dramatic touch.

Suddenly, a guy dressed as Shaggy from Scooby-Doo appears behind me and grabs my arm.

— Why are you threatening her? She’s the result of divine nature!

We swallow hard.

— Buddy, I never raise my hand to any woman. — I improvise quickly, trying to sound convincing.

— Oh, really? Then why were you threatening?

A girl dressed as Daphne—goth and zombie version��accompanies him. When Lily sees her, she jumps back in fright and hides behind me.

— Jesus Christ! — She mutters, placing her hand on her heart.

— Brilliant, I love it. — I praise, admiring the girl’s artistic makeup.

— Why were you fighting? Are you a couple? — The girl asks.

I feel Lily shooting me a clearly jealous look.

— We’re not a couple... — I deny, not very convincingly.

Linda almost breaks her role as a natural actress and ruins everything.

— Yes, we are! We kissed in your sister’s car!

— Why fight when you can kiss? Existence is divine, man. — The unknown Shaggy philosophizes.

---

— We were about to call the police when I saw you shouting at her, — the girl says, taking a drag from her cigarette before passing it to her friend.

— I treat women like jewels. I would never lay a hand on one!

— You're a virgin, — the guy, who looks like a hippie, mocks, and I can barely contain the urge to punch him.

— What’s up, man?

I catch his attention, not because of the gender or style difference—he's a hippie, I'm a rocker/metalhead—but because he insults someone without knowing them.

— Nate didn’t mean to offend you... — the redhead explains, putting her hand on my right shoulder.

— I’m peace and love with things. It’s hard to go around hitting people!

— Hm, I like the rocker who grew out of diapers, — Nate comments, letting out a small laugh.

I sigh, puff out my chest, and then force a smile.

— I loved the zombie makeup, man. Mine turned out so well, it doesn’t even look like it was done at home... — I murmur, observing the girl’s costume.

— Haha! I don’t even know where I got the imagination to create something based on another makeup, — the redhead reveals, leaving me shocked for a few seconds before processing the elaborate production.

— And you are? — I ask, curious.

— Max Mayfield. And you two?

— Linda Hansol. — Linda introduces herself, extending her hand.

— Cool, nice to meet you! Wait... — Max analyzes the situation carefully.

I hear mocking laughter from her friend and the girl. She won’t stop laughing at Linda, then asks a suspicious question.

— What’s so funny? — Lily asks, clearly annoyed.

— Was your dad a Star Wars fan? — the redhead asks, with her arms crossed.

— I don’t have a fake name! — Linda exclaims, leaving a suspicious air in the atmosphere, not just for the redhead.

My suspicions begin to grow. Linda Hansol doesn’t exist. Actually, this whole thing is a farce... Linda is Quinn.

I won’t be mad enough to send someone to an unpleasant place, but... that’s not me.

We’re staring at each other, and suddenly, Lucas shows up, his golden curls drenched in sweat.

Lucas is a friend from middle school.

He crosses my path, and when he tries to steady himself, he nearly throws up on my combat boots!

— Lucas? What the hell did you do? — I shout, pulling his hands away from a beer can he knocked over on the floor.

— Eddie? I got the green light to drink! Are you really here? — he asks, struggling to stay on his feet.

— Don’t I look like a ghost? No, better... I’m a projection of your mind. This is a dream! — I grunt, snapping my fingers. I enjoy playing with his reasoning, which is slow due to the alcohol.

— Did you see the absurd... he’s been treating me like this since middle school! — the Asian says, slurring his words, but then continues: — Why didn’t any girl at the party want to be with me?

— What girl would find a guy who looks like a homeless person attractive? — My words cut like a razor.

— You’re saying I’m ugly? — he pouts, eyes tearing up.

— No, Asian. Damn it! You twisted everything I said... what I meant was... — I lose my patience.

After forcing myself to stay calm, I say:

— GO HOME, LUCAS!

— I DON’T WANT TO GO HOME, EDDIE! — he mutters like a child answering his mother.

Lily keeps looking at Lucas with concern. Does she really care about everyone around her?

— Where’s your patience, Eddie? — Lily asks, noticing my frustration.

— It went to hell! — I yell, straining my back with Lucas’s weight on top of me, almost sinking.

Am I being challenged by a girl’s more mature experience?

A girl is telling me how to act? Eddie, A GIRL?

Despite the irritation, Lucas is a special part of my friendship with him. He’s not someone from my childhood, like Quinn or Jay, but still, he’s been there during tough moments.

He used me as support when the storms of his life—caused by his alcoholic father—came. And, deep down, he’s always been there for me too, which eventually created a genuine friendship between us.

The problem is, when he drinks too much, Lucas turns into another person. He’s not stupid with girls, but alcohol takes control of him.

At the start of the school year, when our names were announced, I felt a pang of sadness. We didn’t finish in the same year, but we still kept in touch—a little, but we kept in touch.

Now, as I hold Lucas up, I see he’s looking at Max. The smile on his face makes it clear what’s going on. He thinks she’s cute.

She responds with glances and direct pick-up lines.

— What’s your name, cutie?

Lucas pulls out a worse pick-up line than mine.

— Maxine Mayfield, and yours?

— Lucas Lee. But for you, am I the master of your dreams? — He replies, trying to impress with a failed attempt at charm.

— That pick-up line is mine, Lee! — I mutter.

— Yours? I could swear it wasn’t. — Lily teases.

— Lucas is hitting on me with an RPG pick-up line? — Max asks, confused.

— Sorry, this idiot... he’s not like this when sober. He’s hammered, and I’m not letting anyone kiss him. You need a cold shower, you smell like alcohol! — I say, still holding up the weight of the Asian.

— Munson, let me kiss her!

— Stay away from the redhead. Calm down! — I hold him back, trying to escape.

— But she’s the girl of my dreams. The most beautiful one I’ve seen in Howling. — Lucas proclaims, blowing some kisses to the redhead.

— He needs to be stopped. I’m tired of this happening. I don’t want him to become a "softener for life." — I say loudly.

— Why are you so annoying, Eddie? Are you going to stop me from getting the redhead? — Lucas condemns me, talking nonsense.

— How old do you think she is? Under eighteen? If she’s a minor, you better stay away. — I warn in a low voice.

— I’m not a minor. — Max answers, laughing. — I’m eighteen!

— Damn, just out of diapers. Lucas, stay away. — I raise an eyebrow. — Dude, don’t you dare get near the drinks, or I’ll tell Aunt Lee!

---

— You need to do something, Chewbacca! Your friend can’t stay in this state... — Lily suggests, all empathetic.

— You’d better take him to someone. My sciatic pain... Ah, I can’t hold him. Look at the weight of this tank! — I insult him for free, but it's the anger speaking.

— Mean! Lucas needs help. How can you be so cold, Eddie? — she retorts, firmly holding my arm.

Great! God and the whole world are criticizing me, and I just didn’t know what to do.

In the middle of her concern, Lily holds Lucas, who is staring at me from head to toe. Alert, danger!

My brain says: Jealousy? Oh, damn it, not again!

— Hmm... Why don’t you stay and take care of him? Or do you have a better idea than mine, Hansol? — I’m blunt and rude, but not out of malice, it’s just my way...

— How did he even get into this house if he’s not part of our group? — she asks, confused, scratching her head.

— How did you find out about this party, Lucas? — more questions, and I’m stuck with them.

— Your sister told me you were at Chance’s house. It was an open party!

— What? That pest knew it was at Carver’s friend’s house! — I start hyperventilating.

— It’s a joke, Eddie. You’re acting like a nervous chihuahua! — he points, laughing at me.

Ah, Lucas Lee, you’re going to get what you deserve.

— And who’s that vampire girl? Introduce her!

— I’m Eddie’s companion; you can call me Lily. — The redhead extends her hand with a nice smile.

Lucas tries to shake her hand but fails, and she feels awkward.

— No, Lily is a level 1 dwarf. Oops, halfling! — I pronounce, hoping Lily will chase me around Howling.

Linda shows me her middle finger.

— Haha! Said the Playmobil doll!

— REFUTED! — Lucas exclaims, laughing maliciously.

— Okay, now, who’s taking him home? — Lily pokes my side, making faces.

At that exact moment, a fire, a volcano of jealousy erupts from the depths of my being!

— You know what? Take care of him since Lee is practically eyeing you! Or better yet, why don’t you two get together?

I’m not thinking straight! But what the hell, am I revealing something I never wanted to happen?

Yes, I’m insanely jealous, but there’s no way I’m going to admit that I want to punch Lucas.

— Then, screw it. You two figure it out with your bowl cut. — The halfling exclaims, dropping Lucas on my shoulders, making all his weight compete with mine, leaving me confused and unbalanced.

Deep down, I knew we were going to reconcile. And maybe, just maybe, I’d start admitting to myself that I had feelings for her. That terrified me. But in the middle of all the chaos, I found myself wishing Lily would realize it before the worst happened...

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