#ki11cupib0

[ki11cupib0]

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 [part 1]

𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝘅 𝗳𝗲𝗺!𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿

𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲!𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗳𝗳

~part 2~

691 wrds

｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

He was everything you wanted…

The way he smiled had the power to brighten anyone's day.

Eddie Munson was undeniably handsome. Wherever he went, he seemed to make the room come alive, or at least that's how it felt to you. From a distance, he warmed your heart. Though you were part of the same friend group, you didn't interact much. It wasn't shyness that kept you apart but rather a sense of unease about being your true self.

Growing up as an outcast wasn't easy. There were always expectations of what you should be—“normal.” But you weren't. You were simply yourself.

That doesn't mean you’ve fully embraced it.

｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★,｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

Eddie sauntered over to the picnic table where the group was lounging and took a seat with his usual ease. “What’s the plan for today?” he asked, flashing his signature grin, his dimples making an appearance. That grin.

“Besides band practice? Nothing much,” Ryan replied. He was a trumpet enthusiast who enjoyed going out, though the others usually scattered to do their own things.

Brit and Kyle were caught up in their affectionate bubble, while Ryan and Garret were huddled over Calculus homework. I was sprawled out on the grass by the tree, indulging in my favorite pastime: people-watching.

Eddie’s gaze landed on me, and I cringed internally. I’ve never been good with eye contact. “How about we… go to a party?” he suggested, still looking my way. I was the only one who seemed to be paying attention. I shrugged, and Eddie turned his attention to Ryan and Garret, slapping his hand down to gather their focus.

Ryan and Garret exchanged glances, and Ryan’s smile widened. “I think you’re onto something,” he said, his enthusiasm evident. He had a knack for embracing the most outrageous ideas if it meant escaping from schoolwork.

Garret rolled his eyes. “You’re fai—” Ryan cut him off with a hand over his mouth. “Shhh, my sweet angel… The man is speaking,” Ryan said, his wicked grin matching Eddie’s.

Eddie’s eyes shifted back to me. Oh no. “What about you, princess? Are you in?” he asked, his gaze fixed on me. Anything for you… Wait, PRINCESS?! His pet names made me want to roll my eyes.

“I don’t kn—” I started, but Ryan interrupted. “Come on, you need to party more. We’re in college, and you haven’t been to a single party!” he said dramatically.

Caught between their insistence, I relented quickly (they wouldn’t stop until I agreed). “Fine… but what should I wear?”

“Something sexy~,” Ryan chimed in, wiggling his eyebrows before Eddie could respond. Eddie’s eyes remained on me, making my stomach flutter.

He held my gaze a moment longer. Trying to avoid reacting to either Ryan or Eddie, I glanced over to see Brit lifting her head from Kyle’s shoulder. “Do you know who’s going?” she asked.

“Nope, but it doesn’t really matter if we all go together. It’ll be fun, I promise,” Eddie replied. Brit took a moment to consider before speaking. She liked to think things through, unlike the boys, except for Garrett, who was always practical.

“Y/n, you have to come! We can get ready together at my place!” Brit said suddenly excited, her smile bright. Kyle squeezed her affectionately, clearly enjoying her enthusiasm. They were the epitome of couple goals, and it made me sigh.

“Okay, Brit. Should we meet up around five or six?” I asked, checking the time and noting it was just an hour until five. The thought of having to look good and let loose made me anxious, but the idea of spending time with my friends—and seeing Eddie in those cropped shirts—made it worth it.

“Yes! I’ll text you with the details and pick you up. Let’s get going, babe,” Brit said, gathering her things as Kyle did the same. They both bid their goodbyes and headed out. I followed suit shortly after, the boys saying their farewells. As Ryan made another “sexy~” joke, Eddie playfully smacked him on the head. I shook my head with a smile and left.

[ki11cupib0]

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 [part 3]

𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝘅 𝗳𝗲𝗺!𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿

𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲!𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗳𝗳

~part 1~ ~part 2~

3140 wrds

｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆ ｡･:*:･ﾟ★, ｡･:*:･ﾟ☆

As Kyle pulled up to the dorm, Brit turned around from the passenger seat, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “You owe me all the details later!” she said with a teasing grin.

You laughed, feeling a mix of excitement and exhaustion. “Definitely. I’ll fill you in tomorrow. Thanks for the ride back, you two,” you said, offering a grateful smile.

Kyle gave you a friendly nod. “Of course. Have a good night.”

You grabbed your things from the back seat and made your way to your dorm. The quiet walk gave you time to reflect on the night, particularly Eddie’s lingering gaze and warm smile. A small nagging worry crept in—what if he was just being friendly? But the hope of something more quickly soothed that fear.

Opening your dorm room door, you felt an overwhelming urge to crash into bed. You lazily washed your face and changed into your comfortable pajamas, letting the day’s excitement settle into a peaceful tiredness.

In the afternoon, you wake up to the buzz of your phone beneath you. Mindlessly, you reached for it, wondering who might have texted you and opened the message.

freakydndm0nster: Hope you got home safe!! When you free for the movie night?

Fuck, I didn’t mean to open it.

You: i did, i hope you did too and im honestly free whenever :D

He’s already typing back, AHdh.

freakydndm0nster: Okok freakydndm0nster: Would tonight be okay? I know it’s soon but I have band practice tomorrow night. Unless you’d like to join and we can watch a movie afterwards?

You: either works! It would be nice to see you practice tho :0

freakydndm0nster: Tomorrow night it is then :))

You couldn’t help but grin, staring at the ceiling as you imagined the evening ahead. You’d get to see Eddie in action, which was something you’d been curious about since he first mentioned his band. And the movie night was just an added bonus. The mix of excitement and nerves fluttered in your stomach.

The rest of the day passed in a blur of anticipation. You caught Brit up to speed and she shared her excitement, you both agreed to meet up tomorrow. After chatting you tried to get some work done but, your mind kept drifting back to Eddie. What would his band’s practice be like? What would they sound like? And, of course, what would it be like to watch a movie with him afterward?

When evening finally rolled around, you found yourself digging through your closet for the perfect outfit. It wasn’t a date just a hangout, but you still wanted to look nice. After several outfit changes, you settled on a casual yet cute look that you hoped struck the right balance between “I’m chill” and “I put in some effort.” Again, not a date.

As you made your way to the band’s practice space, which was located in a building on the edge of campus, you couldn’t help but feel a little jittery. When you arrived, you took a deep breath before heading inside. The building had an old, worn-out charm to it, with posters and flyers about local bands plastered on the walls.

You found Eddie waiting for you in the lobby, his face lighting up when he saw you. “Hey! Glad you could make it,” he said, his warm smile making your heart skip a beat. So hot.

“Hey! Thanks for inviting me,” you replied, trying to sound casual. “I’m so excited.”

“Hell yeah, I’m glad”. He led you through a narrow hallway to a door marked “Practice Room 3.” Next to it was a paper stuck to the door saying ‘Corroded Coffin in session’. As he opened it, you were hit with a burst of sound—drums, guitars, and a bass creating a lively, energetic atmosphere. The band was already in the middle of a song, and you couldn’t help but be impressed by their talent.

Eddie gestured to a couple of folding chairs set up along one side of the room. “Make yourself comfortable. These are the guys I’m always telling you about. This is Jake, our guitarist; Sarah, our drummer; and Max, who plays bass. Everyone say hi!” He shouted a bit over the noise as some paused and greeted while others gave a nod.

You took a seat and watched, captivated, as Eddie’s band began to play. The music was fantastic—lively and full of energy, and Eddie was clearly in his element. The way he played with such passion made you admire him even more. I always wanted to see his band, to see him play but didn’t want to bother him. God, this is amazing.

After their set, Eddie came over to you, sweaty but smiling broadly. “So, what did you think?”

“It was awesome!” you exclaimed. “You guys are really good.”

“Thanks! That means a lot,” Eddie said, looking at you with such softness it makes your heart melt.

The band members joined the conversation, and you talked to them about their music and upcoming gigs. They were all friendly and you could tell why Eddie enjoyed being part of their group.

As you and Eddie finished loading the last of the equipment into his van, you both became more comfortable and the energy was evident. The heavy lifting was done, and Eddie turned to you with a grin. “I told you, you don’t have to carry anything heavy. I wouldn’t want you to hurt yourself.”

“Oh, please,” you said with a playful eye-roll. “I’m more than capable of handling a couple of amp cases. But I appreciate the chivalry.”

Eddie chuckled. “Well, I wouldn’t want you to miss out on a chance to admire my biceps. They’re a crucial part of the show.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “I’ll take your word for it. Though I have to say, the band’s performance was impressive enough to make up for it.”

He looked genuinely pleased. “Why, thank you! We work hard, so it’s nice to hear that. By the way, if you ever want to join us for practice or a gig, you’re always welcome. It’s cool to have someone there who’s genuinely interested.” Fuck yes!! Can’t wait to see more bicep action.

“I’d love that,” you replied. “It’s been really fun getting to see you in action. And hey, maybe one day I’ll even get to hear some behind-the-scenes band drama.”

Eddie raised an eyebrow with mock seriousness. “Oh, you’re in for it then. We have plenty of drama. You just have to promise not to tell anyone about Jake’s obsession with perfecting his guitar solos.”

“I’ll keep the secrets,” you promised with a grin. “On one condition—you have to let me bring popcorn to the next practice.”

“Deal,” Eddie said, extending a hand to shake on it. “You drive a hard bargain, but it’s worth it.”

After securing everything in the van, Eddie suggested grabbing late-night dinner. “There’s a great 24-hour diner not far from here. How about we head there for some food and then watch that movie?”

You agreed, and the two of you made your way to the diner. The neon lights of the place created a warm, nostalgic glow as you walked in. It was cozy and filled with a mix of students and locals, creating a relaxed atmosphere.

As you both settled into a booth, Eddie immediately started teasing you about your movie choices. “So, what’s your go-to movie snack? I’m guessing you’re a popcorn fanatic.”

“Oh, absolutely,” you said with a mock-serious expression. “But I’m not picky. I also appreciate a good nacho or candy combo. I’m a firm believer that variety is key although nothing beats the buttery goodness of popcorn.”

Eddie raised an eyebrow. “A connoisseur of movie snacks, then. Impressive. I might have to up my game if I want to keep up with your standards.” You both smile at each other.

Eddie’s grin widened as he leaned back in his seat, clearly enjoying the playful banter. “You know, I’m really glad to see you letting loose like this,” he said, his tone sincere and warm. “I always felt like there was more to you than what you let on, and it’s awesome to see this side of you.”

You glanced at him, feeling a rush of warmth from his words. “I appreciate that. I’ve always been a bit shy about showing this side of myself. But I have to admit, it’s easier when I’m around people I feel comfortable with.”

Eddie nodded, his eyes softening. “I get that. And I’m really glad you’re feeling comfortable. You’ve got this cool energy about you, and it’s great to see it come out. I’ve always thought you were interesting, but it’s nice to see you in a more relaxed setting.”

You blushed slightly, feeling a bit self-conscious but pleased by his compliment. “Well, I guess you’ve got a knack for making people feel at ease. It’s been really nice hanging out with you, both last night and tonight. I know we only hang out with the group but still. It is nice.” It's nice to finally have some one on one.

Eddie’s expression turned thoughtful as he took a sip of his soda. “I agree… you know, sometimes it’s hard to tell what people are really like beneath the surface. I mean, I knew you were cool, but seeing you interact and be yourself is refreshing. It’s like getting to know a whole new side of you.”

You chuckled, feeling a mix of gratitude and amusement. “I guess I’ve always been more comfortable in the background. It’s easier to observe than to be the center of attention.”

“That makes sense,” Eddie said, his gaze fixed on you with genuine interest. “But I’m really glad you’re coming out of your shell.”

The waitress arrived with your orders, breaking the momentary silence between you. As you both dug into your late-night dinner, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, but the underlying connection remained. You couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of excitement.

“So,” Eddie said after a few moments, his eyes twinkling with mischief, “what’s the movie you’re going to suggest for our movie night? I need to prepare myself for the cinematic brilliance.”

You laughed, enjoying the playful challenge. “Oh, I’ve got a few ideas up my sleeve. But I��m open to suggestions too. What kind of genres do you like?”

Eddie’s eyes lit up as he leaned forward, clearly animated by the topic. “I’m a fan of pretty much anything with a good story. Horror, comedy, drama—I’m all in.”

“Well, then,” you said, raising an eyebrow, “I think we might have to do a movie marathon next time. I have a few obscure gems I think you’d really enjoy.”

Eddie grinned, clearly excited by the idea. “I’m in. And hey, maybe we can turn this into a regular thing. You know, a movie night tradition?”

“I’d like that,” you said, feeling a sense of anticipation for future plans. “It sounds like a lot of fun.”

As you both finished your meal and paid the check, Eddie’s smile remained bright, and his easygoing demeanor made the evening feel relaxed and enjoyable. The conversation continued to flow effortlessly, and you found yourself feeling more and more at ease with each passing minute.

When you finally walked out of the diner and back to Eddie’s van, the night air was cool and refreshing. Eddie opened the door for you, and you both climbed in.

“How about we watch Heavy Metal?” Eddie said as he started the engine. “1981, sci-fi?”

"I believe I’ve heard of it but haven’t seen it yet."

Eddie flashed a grin. "Fuck yeah. It’s got a mix of sci-fi, animation, and some pretty wild storytelling. I thought it’d be a fun pick for our movie night."

As Eddie drove, his music played and you both sat in comfortable silence as you tapped to the music. All your small fantasies and wishes about him were coming true, and you were excited for the future.

When you arrived at Eddie’s place, he quickly set up his living room for the movie. The space was cozy, with dim lighting and a well-worn couch that looked perfect for a relaxed movie night. Eddie grabbed some blankets and a couple of pillows, making the setting even more inviting. He waved you to it.

“Make yourself comfortable,” Eddie said, placing a blanket on you as he prepared the DVD. “I’ll grab us some more snacks. You want anything specific?”

You thought for a moment. “Maybe just some more popcorn if you have it? I think I’ve already had my fill of real food.”

Eddie laughed. “Got it. I’ll be right back.”

As he went to the kitchen, you settled into the couch, enjoying the cozy atmosphere. The anticipation of watching the movie with Eddie made you feel even more comfortable. When he returned with a bowl of freshly popped popcorn and a few drinks, he flopped down next to you, his relaxed demeanor making it easy to feel at ease. “I made sure to make it buttery like you mentioned”

“It’s so lovely of you to remember,” you said a bit sarcastically. Eddie chuckled as he nudged you playfully. “Of course! I aim to please. Now, let’s get this show on the road.” He handed you the bowl of popcorn, the buttery smell wafting up and making your mouth water.

You snuggled into the couch as Eddie hit play on the movie. The dim light of the TV flickered across the room, casting a soft glow that made the space feel even cozier. Eddie settled next to you, close enough that you could feel the warmth of his body and the occasional brush of his arm against yours.

The movie started, and Eddie’s enthusiasm for it was palpable. “I’m so excited for you to see this,” he said, his eyes bright with anticipation. “It’s got some unique animation and an awesome soundtrack.”

You grinned, leaning back and trying to relax in the comfortable setting. “I’m excited too. I love discovering new films, especially ones with a bit of a cult following.”

You both got lost in its vibrant, animated world. Eddie occasionally glances over at you, catching your reactions and commenting on scenes, his enthusiasm adding to the fun of watching the film. You found yourself laughing and enjoying the movie more than you expected, and Eddie’s presence made the experience even better.

At one point, Eddie turned to you with a mischievous grin. “So, how are we doing so far? Any thoughts on the movie?”

You laughed. “It’s amazing! I can see why it’s considered a classic. The animation is quite unique, and the story is wild in the best way possible. Plus, your company makes it more enjoyable.”

Eddie’s smile widened. “Glad you’re enjoying it. And hey, if you ever want to discuss the deeper meanings of animated sci-fi or anything else, I’m your guy.”

You both laughed, the conversation flowing easily between movie commentary and personal anecdotes. It felt natural and effortless like you’d known each other for much longer than you actually had.

As the credits rolled and the movie came to an end, you both sat back, feeling a satisfied sense of closure to the night. Eddie looked over at you, his expression warm and relaxed. “So, what did you think of our movie night? Successful, I hope?”

“Absolutely successful,” you said with a smile. “It’s been great, don’t want it to end yet but I do have classes tomorrow.”

Eddie’s smile softened as he looked at you. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I had a great time too. Let’s get to the van, sweetheart.”

You nodded, feeling a mix of contentment and a little sadness that the night was coming to an end. “That sounds perfect. Thanks, Ed.” I can’t even react properly, I’m too tired. But he said, sweetheart!!!

As you both began to gather your things and prepare to head out, you couldn’t help but notice how he treats you with such kindness. Despite being in the same friend group you both never talked outside of it, stayed in your bubbles. It warms your heart to know that you two are growing closer and more comfortable.

The drive back to your dorm was relaxing. The hum of the engine and the soft glow of the streetlights outside created a peaceful ambiance. Eddie kept the conversation light, sharing funny stories about the band and making you laugh.

As you approached your dorm, you felt a twinge of reluctance to say goodbye. Eddie parked the van and turned to you, his expression a mix of warmth and something that felt almost like hesitation.

“Well, here we are,” he said, his voice gentle. “Is it okay if I walk you to your dorm? Or at least to the entrance?”

You smiled at his offer, feeling a warm flutter in your chest. “I’d like that,” you said softly. “Thanks, Eddie.”

He nodded, giving you a reassuring smile as you both got out of the van and started walking toward your dorm. The night air was crisp, and the quiet campus was calming. Eddie walked beside you, his presence comforting and easygoing.

As you reached the entrance to your dorm, the reality of the night coming to an end started to sink in. You turned to Eddie, feeling a mix of gratitude and a hint of sadness that the evening was over. “I had a great time tonight,” you said sincerely. “Thanks for inviting me and for making it so fun.”

Eddie’s eyes softened as he looked at you. “I’m glad you did. I had a great time too.”

Eddie’s eyes lingered on you for a moment, and then he added, “Before you go, I just wanted to say that it’s been nice getting to know you better. You’ve got great energy about you, and I’m glad we got to spend some time together. I’ll be looking forward to our next movie night, and maybe I’ll even try to keep up with your snack standards”

You laughed lightly, your heart fluttered at his words, “I’ll hold you to that, and thank you, Ed. I feel the same way.”

There was a brief, comfortable silence as you both took in the moment. Eddie finally broke it with a playful grin. “I guess I should let you get some rest before your classes tomorrow. I’ll text you about our next movie night but remember, if you ever need someone to hang out with, I’m your guy.” He is too cute. I want to hug him but I think we are both playing it safe.

You laughed softly. “Got it. And the same goes for you.”

Eddie’s eyes sparkled with amusement. “Deal. Goodnight, sweetheart.”

“Goodnight,” you replied, feeling a little giddy as you entered your dorm.

[ki11cupib0]

𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 [part 2]

𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝘅 𝗳𝗲𝗺!𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿

𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗲!𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗳𝗳

~part 1~ ~part 3~

1380 wrds

｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆ ｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆

｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆ ｡･::･ﾟ★, ｡･::･ﾟ☆

Brit picked you up from your dorm and drove to her place, where the atmosphere shifted from mellow Jeff Buckley tunes to high-energy tracks meant to get you both pumped up. By the time you were ready, around 10:30 pm, you were both decked out and eager for the night ahead. Brit, embodying a dark, feminine allure, looked striking, while you donned an outfit that you weren't entirely used to but had always admired.

The door swung open with Kyle’s dramatic entrance. “My eyes are closed! I tried knocking but you’ve got the music blasting!” he announced, stumbling in with his eyes shut. Brit quickly turned down the volume. “We’re ready, you silly rabbit.”

He parted his hands a bit, then grinned widely, “Who is this beautiful creature in front of me?!” He shouts and cups Brit’s face. They laugh together, their affection palpable.

“Get a room,” I say rolling my eyes dramatically.

Brit shot back with a grin, “You’ll find your own lover soon enough, and be just like this!”

The drive to the party was a blur of metal anthems, courtesy of Kyle’s “I’M A ROCKSTAR!!” playlist. Your stuff was nestled in the seat beside you, just in case Brit or Kyle couldn’t drop you back at the dorm—comfort was always your priority.

When you arrived, there was a sea of cars outside. Kyle lets you and Brit out first to find a parking spot. Brit quickly sent a text to the group chat announcing your arrival. Not long after, Ryan and Garrett appeared, with Ryan trying—and failing—to sneak up on you with his usual noisy antics. “You’re an idiot,” Brit quipped, laughing. No sign of Eddie though. 

Ryan, unfazed, responded with his usual mischievous grin. “And you love me for it,” he shot back, drawing a chuckle from everyone. 

Kyle asked the question on everyone’s mind. “Where’s Eddie?” he asked, locking arms with Brit as they approached the entrance.

“He must be caught up inside, let’s go join him!” Ryan spouts enthusiastically and drags Garrett with him, and the rest all follow. The music gets louder and you scan the room, searching for Eddie amidst the crowd of people. The beer pong game was already in full swing, with Ryan and Garrett competing fiercely, while you and Brit went for drinks and discussed the game’s potential victor.

Amid the noise, the kitchen was slightly quieter but still busy with about ten people.“I’m glad there are still drinks left,” you say and for a moment turn around to check the area for more. As you reached for a drink, you suddenly locked eyes with Eddie. His warm, brown eyes roamed over you with a slow, appreciative gaze. He leaned casually against the wall, his iconic cropped metal shirt and silver accessories adding to his striking presence. You feel your face and ears warm up. My wish came true. 

 He’s going to be the death of me. 

“There he is! We were looking for you!!” Brit yells across the room and waves him over. He walks over, staying close. “Sorry for the delay,” Eddie said, his voice smooth. “Had to help a friend who’d overindulged. I figured one of you would be here.” He looked between you and Brit, his gaze lingering a moment longer on you. “You both look amazing tonight,” he added, giving you a wink that made your knees go weak. 

The rest of the journey back seemed to blur together. Drinks in hand, you tried to focus on the game of beer pong, where Ryan was basking in his victory over Kyle, his cocky grin in full force. Eddie stayed near, you couldn’t help but look at him. He made you feel warm inside, you can only hope he feels the same. 

The night continued in a whirl of laughter, music, and fleeting moments. With Eddie’s presence adding a spark to the already vibrant atmosphere, you found yourself stealing glances his way more often than you intended. Every time your eyes met, his warm smile and casual demeanor made your heart race a little faster.

The beer pong game raged on, with Ryan and Kyle exchanging playful jabs as they played. Kyle wouldn’t let him go. Garrett, always the observer, cheered them on with a grin. Eddie, though not directly involved in the game, was in the midst of the fun, effortlessly blending into the group. 

He would join a few rounds against Garrett when either Ryan or Kyle needed a much-needed break. Eventually, Brit and Kyle would drift into the crowd, and you were left with Eddie and the group, trying to navigate through the raucous party. 

You decided to take a break from the chaos and wandered over to a quieter corner of the house. Eddie followed, his presence a reassuring comfort amidst the crowd. He leaned against the wall, giving you a sidelong glance. “Mind if I join you for a moment?” he asked, his voice low and inviting. 

“Not at all,” you replied, trying to sound casual despite the fluttering in your chest. We are alone…

He moved closer, his shoulder brushing against yours as he leaned in slightly. “I’m glad you came tonight. I’ve been wanting to spend more time with you,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper, yet it carried a warmth that made your heart skip.

You looked up at him, surprised and pleased. “Really? I didn’t think you noticed me.”

Eddie chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Of course I did. It’s hard to miss someone as interesting as you. You always seem to be in the background, but I’ve noticed you.” 

I’ve noticed you, Eddie. With every fiber in my being. 

His compliment made you blush, and you tried to play it cool. “Well, I’m glad I’ve managed to catch your attention.” 

Eddie’s gaze softened, and he took a sip from his drink. “So, tell me more about you. What’s something I wouldn’t guess about you?” 

The question caught you off guard, but it was a welcome distraction from the party’s noise. “Hmm, well, I guess I’m really into old movies. Not just the classics everyone knows, but the obscure ones that hardly anyone talks about.”

Eddie’s eyes lit up with interest. “That’s awesome. I’m a bit of a film buff myself. Maybe you could recommend a few to me sometime?” 

You smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. “I’d like that.” A lot. 

As the night wore on, the party’s energy showed no signs of waning. You found yourself drawn into conversations and activities, but Eddie remained a constant presence by your side. Whether you were discussing your favorite movies or just enjoying the music, his attention made everything feel more special. 

The clock ticked past midnight, and the party began to wind down. People started saying their goodbyes, and the house gradually emptied. Eddie walked with you and Brit towards the door, his hand brushing against yours in a way that felt intentional. 

At the threshold, Eddie turned to you, his eyes reflecting the dim light of the early morning. “I had a great time tonight. I hope you did too.” He looked amazing, like always.

“I did,” you admitted, feeling a mix of happiness and reluctance as the night came to a close. “Thanks for making it so much fun.”

Eddie’s smile was soft but genuine. “Anytime. Let’s hang out again soon. Maybe we can catch one of those movies you mentioned.” Please!!!

You nodded, feeling a thrill at the thought of spending more time with him. “I already have one in mind.”

With a final wave and a promise to talk tomorrow, Eddie said his goodbyes and headed off to his van. As you and Brit made your way back to Kyle’s car, you couldn’t help but replay the evening in your mind. They’re luckily able to drive, as their night consisted of dancing and beer pong. Eddie’s presence doesn’t leave your mind as he turned an ordinary night into something memorable. 

The drive back was quiet but comfortable, Brit humming softly to the tunes on the radio. As you reached your dorm, the night’s events felt like a dream, leaving you with a hopeful smile and a heart full of anticipation for what might come next.