#stranger things tickle fic

[ticklishraspberries]

Secrets & Sensitivity (Eddie/Steve)

Summary: Steve tries to keep being ticklish a secret, but Eddie is very persistent. (For Week 3 of @august-anon's weekly Tickletober prompts!! Thank you to everyone who voted for the ship for this day, and I hope you all enjoy reading!!)

Steve Harrington is good at keeping secrets.

Well, he’s legally obligated to keep a lot of shit secret, lest the government come after him. Living in Hawkins, Indiana apparently comes with some non-disclosure agreements, as he’s learned the hard way. Those secrets are kept more for survival rather than out of the goodness of his heart, but still, it counts. He’s kept secrets for friends, too. He didn’t tell anyone about Dustin’s initial crush on Max, or about Robin.

And he’s good at keeping his own secrets. Even when they’re small and silly, like the fact that he uses Farrah Fawcett hairspray, or the fact that he still doesn’t know how he passed algebra in high school. He doesn’t go blabbing for advice about all his little problems, even when he probably should. He knows that Robin will understand if he confides in her about the fact that he might possibly like boys as well as girls, but he isn’t ready to talk about it with anyone.

He was raised to keep everything inside, his feelings and secrets. He wasn’t allowed to complain or cry as a child, and he carried that mentality throughout his life.

So, he’s not good at opening up. Even when it’s about silly things.

“I’m not ticklish,” he insists, arms crossed defensively over his chest.

When Eddie tries to test it, Steve just turns the tables and makes him pinky swear to keep his hands to himself, otherwise he’ll never stop. Eddie gives up pretty quickly, and the subject is dropped.

They’re just friends when that happens, but now, they’re dating, and things are different. They touch more, and they’re more honest. Steve’s working on the whole openness thing, and has been slowly but surely revealing the little bits of himself, like embarrassing childhood stories and the nightmares that leave him gasping for air in the night.

It’s late one evening, and they’re curled up in Eddie’s bed, the trailer empty while Wayne’s on the night shift, and his fingers are lazily playing connect-the-dots with the freckles and moles on Steve’s back. Those gentle fingers get closer to his side, and Steve can’t help but squirm.

“I thought you said you weren't ticklish,” Eddie teases.

“I…” Steve hesitates. “I…might have lied?”

Eddie moves faster than lightning, and Steve doesn’t even have a chance to fight back before his sides are being squeezed, and he’s holding his breath, trying not to give his boyfriend the satisfaction of laughter, at least not yet.

In an attempt to preserve his dignity, Steve makes a split-second decision to retaliate, clumsily grasping for Eddie’s torso and landing a squeeze at his hip, making him shriek.

He’s known about Eddie’s ticklishness for a bit longer, has only tried to exploit it once or twice for fear of revenge, but now, his interest is piqued. He chases that sound, the strength coming back into his arms as he fends off tickling fingers, switching their positions so that Steve is on top of him.

Eddie’s not weak by any means, but he’s no match for Steve at this moment, and those big brown eyes only get wider as he realizes his predicament.

“Are you ticklish, Eddie?” Steve asks, grinning.

“You know the answer to that, dick,” Eddie replies, squirming wildly beneath him.

For his sass, Steve wastes no time and shows no mercy as he begins to explore Eddie’s ticklish spots, from underneath his chin to the waistband of his jeans, and the howling, hysterical laughter that pours out is so adorable, Steve never wants it to end.

However, Eddie’s going to need to breathe sometime, so he’s careful to not go too far, periodically slowing or stopping his touch to let him gasp for air, to let him mumble swear words between residual giggles, to let him try and fight back, even though he fails.

Quickly, Steve begins to realize that Eddie hasn’t once begged for him to stop, or made much of a genuine effort for escape. His cheeks are flushed, his chest is heaving, and his reactions are far from fake, and yet, he seems…To be having fun?

Steve can’t help the fond smile that comes over his face as he comes to the conclusion that Eddie likes this, that he’s having fun. It’s so fucking cute, it’s so Eddie that it just melts his heart.

He leans down to press a kiss to his jaw, and even though he doesn’t really mean for it to tickle, Eddie starts giggling anyway.

This is just one more secret that Steve Harrington will be happy to keep.

[mimimunson]

steddie / ticklish!eddie / one shot

cw- tickling, swearing

wayne notices everything. eagle eyed he picked up on how close steve and his nephew were before they even told him they were dating. he very quickly saw how much eddie liked to fluster steve around their friends, he thought it was only fair that he gave the lad some ammo on eddie.

“when he was younger and showing off, i just used to poke his sides a little, that was quickly an attitude adjustment.” he whispered to steve when eddie had gone to the bathroom. steve’s eyes gleamed at the information, he would never have guessed eddie was ticklish, but slowly everything started adding up.

eddie re-entered the room and steve had a shit-eating grin plastered over his face.

“what the fuck did you tell him?” eddie groaned making direct eye contact with his uncle, pointing his finger accusingly.

he was so screwed.

[theticklishbookwyrm]

Critical Hit || 'Stranger Things' Tickle Fic

Summary: The second Eddie finds out that Hawkins' resident pretty boy is ticklish, it is all over for poor Steve. Also, Robin and Dustin are TRAITORS.

Content Warnings: Adult language.

Word Count: 1,667 words.

"I'm sorry, can you repeat that?"

Steve felt his heart leap into his throat, eyes widening as they flicked between Eddie and Dustin in a panic. "Nothing, he said nothing! Isn't that right, Henderson?" The teen said, all too quickly.

Dustin snorted, the boy's grin taking on a mischievous undertone. "What? Don't want Eddie knowing you're super-" Before he could finish his sentence, Steve slapped a hand over Dustin's mouth, eyes now narrowed warningly.

"Don't."

Eddie raised his brows, chuckling as he turned his attention away from the guitar still resting in his hands. "Come on, Harrington, now I HAVE to know what the kid said. Wish I had been paying attention the first time, of course, but-"

"Come on, just drop it, Eddie." Steve cut him off, his cheeks and ears now dusted with a light pink blush.

Oh, now THAT was interesting.

Suddenly, Steve's hand recoiled from Dustin's mouth, face contorting with disgust as he wiped in furiously against his jeans. "Did you just fucking LICK me?" He asked, tone a mixture of indignance and shock.

The younger teenager shot Steve a victorious grin before opening his mouth to speak before he could be stopped again. "Steve is-"

"Ticklish." A new voice finished. All three of them looked towards the door, the sight of Robin grinning with arms loaded with snacks greeting them. "Steve Harrington is super fucking ticklish."

"Robin!" Steve hissed, embarrassment growing, especially when the sound of Dustin's amused giggling met his ears.

"What? The kid was about to spill your secret anyways!" Robin replied, plopping down on Eddie's sofa next to Dustin, offering the boy a high five and a bag of Doritos. "Not like it's much of a secret to begin with; you suck at hiding it, dude."

Steve's mouth hung open, his face feeling as if it was on fire. Shit, shit, shit! His heart rate picked up as Eddie hummed, the sound low and tinged with something Steve could only describe as evil (or amusement, though both options did not bode well for poor Steve).

"Steve "The Hair" Harrington is ticklish?" The musician crooned. Steve dared a glance at the other's face; big mistake. A wide grin had broken out on Eddie's face, his eyes twinkling with pure glee, the expression making Steve's stomach do nervous flips.

Steve was royalty screwed.

"I believe Robin said SUPER FUCKING TICKLISH." Dustin chimed smugly, earning a smack to the back of the head from Robin.

"Damn Henderson, do you kiss your mother with that mouth? But yes, that is a more accurate statement. " Robin replied.

The look that Eddie was giving Steve now was downright EVIL, so filled with playful mischief that it made Steve want to curl into a ball and never come out again. Shit, nothing was even HAPPENING yet, but the knowledge that something was definitely GOING to already had Steve on the verge of nervous chuckles.

"Eddie, why are you looking at me like that? Don't go getting any ideas..."

"Too late, pretty boy." Eddie was on his feet before Steve could blink, slowly stalking closer and closer, almost resembling a cat hunting a mouse. Instinctively, Steve began to quickly back away from the impending threat.

Now, Steve had a few options. He could either stay put and meet his doom head-on like a man, OR he could make a break for the trailer door in a desperate attempt to save his own skin. One was far kinder on his dignity...

He chose the later.

Steve bolted for the door, his heart racing like a rabbit, nearly leaping into his throat as Eddie let out a war cry from somewhere behind him. "Get back here!"

'Shit, shit, shit!' Steve thought in a panic, hand reaching for the doorknob, freedom a mere foot away. However, it seemed luck wasn't on his side, as he felt two hands seize his waist from behind and drag him backwards, pulling a shocked yelp from Steve's lips.

"I've gotcha now!" Eddie crowed victoriously, wrapping an arm around Steve's chest as he drug the kicking teenager to the floor, wrestling with Steve's frantically waving arms until he was able to successfully get a grip on the other's wrists.

"Eddie, come on! You don't have to do this! Just let me go and we can go back to talking about that band you like, huh? W-What was it called again?" Steve started to babble, eyes wide, a nervous grin already beginning to tug at his lips.

"Don't listen to him! Get his ass good, Eddie!" Dustin cheered, reaching over Robin's lap to swipe the bag of Doritos out of her hands, earning a noise of indignation in return.

"Don't worry, I plan on it. Now, where should we start, huh? What spots get Steve "The Hair" Harrington the most giggly?" The guitarist crooned, eyes sparkling with mischief as he pinned Steve's wrists under his knees, freeing up both of his hands. They hovered over Steve's now exposed torso, fingers wiggling tauntingly. "Sides, tummy, hips? Got any suggestions?"

"Nowhere! Let me go, you asshole!" Steve sassed, bucking his hips and trying desperately to tug his wrists free.

"Oho, you going to let him talk to you like that?" Robin chuckled. "I mean, I certainly wouldn't, especially knowing how ticklish those ribs of his are."

"Robin!" Steve cried out, eyes shooting over to Robin in a look of utter betrayal. "Shut up! Eddie, Eddie listen to me! D-Don't even think about it!"

"Nah, I think I'll do more than THINK about it." Eddie's grin sharpened as his hands shot down, latching onto Steve's ribcage and beginning to squeeze. Immediately, Steve's lips sealed shut, grin turning wobbly as he shuttered with barely contained giggles.

Dustin snorted. "Look at him, still trying to act all tough!"

"Aw, come on, Stevie. Don't hold out on me now. Why not let those bouncy little giggles come out to play, hm?" Eddie cooed.

Steve shook his his head harder, eyes squeezing shut. God, why THIS? Why couldn't Dustin just keep his stupid mouth shut? Being so sensitive was already bad enough, but having EDDIE of all people find out about it made Steve want to curl into a ball and never show his face again.

Eddie began to take a more tactical approach, raking his fingers slowly over the outstretched ribs, taking time to scratch between each bone as he slowly worked his way towards the stomach. "Maybe you need help loosening those lips, hm? Lets see how you handle this, big boy."

Shit, that was so much worse! Steve's breath hitched, a few little snickers beginning to slip past his lips at the change in techniques. "N-Noho! Cut it ohohout!" It came out less as a demand and more like a borderline whine.

"Making some progress, but still not what I'm looking for. Hey Henderson, what about you? Know any good spots?" Eddie called, glancing over his shoulder as his fingers continued to scratch and pluck away at the ticklish ribs.

"His neck gets him giggling like a girl!" The younger teenager smirked, the expression immediately getting wiped from his face as Robin gave his shoulder a gentle shove.

"You better watch it or you'll be next!" Robin snorted, rolling her eyes as she smiled fondly at the silly display on the floor.

Eddie's eyes met Steve's, his grin turning downright feral. "Neck, huh? Let's see just how accurate Henderson's claim is, shall we?" He didn't wait for a response, ducking down and beginning to gnaw at the neck in question, letting out theatrical growls as he did so. Immediately, Steve cracked, busting into shrill giggles and squeals as his legs kicked out frantically in a vain attempt to scramble away.

"Shihihihit! Nohohohoho, dohohohohon't!" Steve hated how high pitched his giggles sounded, the sound punctuated with little squeaks whenever Eddie hit a particularly sensitive spot. All the while, the guitarist's fingers continued to scribble and rake across his ribs, creating a deadly dual attack that made Steve's thoughts jumble in a ticklish haze.

"Uh, I think you mean DO!" Robin giggled. "Come on, Steve, you are BARELY trying to get away! Man, I knew you liked this, but this is a whole new level of cute!"

"What?!" Dustin asked, clearly taken aback by her statement. "Are you serious?"

"Ooh yeah, Steve here just LOVES getting tickled within an inch of his life. He asks me to do it, like, ALL the time. Isn't that righty, Stevie?" Robin asked devilishly, delighted by the bright red blush spreading across Steve's cheeks.

"Nohohoho, that's nohohohot-" Steve was cut off by a squeaky squeal as Eddie found a sweet spot just beneath his left ear, nuzzling and nibbling until Steve thought he was going to combust.

"Less talking, more laughing, pretty boy.." Eddie growled, his grin pressed against the sensitive skin and flustering Steve to no end. "It's fucking precious that you like this so much; just makes me wanna tickle you even more. Would you like that? Do you want me to tickle, tickle, tickle until your brain turns to mush?"

Steve opened his mouth, trying to think of a response between hysterical titters, only for a shriek to rip out of his mouth at the sudden feeling of a second set of hands attacking his knees, squeezing at the caps in a manner that sent Steve straight into loud, hysterical cackles. "SHIHIHIHIT, WAHAHAHAHAIT! WAIT, NOHOHOHOT THE KNEHEHEHEES!"

Eddie paused, sitting back in confusion. Glancing behind him, he noticed that Dustin had positioned himself by Steve's failing legs, hands latched onto the older teenager's knees and squeezing rapidly. "What? You honestly expect me not to join in after that revelation?" Dustin asked, raising a brow.

"Nah, I'm just proud of you, kid. It sounds like you landed a critical hit on poor Stevie here." Eddie snickered, beginning to spider his fingers across Steve's stomach. "Hey, lets see who can make him snort the fastest!"

At that moment, Steve knew he was a dead man.

[hotwritergf]

Knismo!Eddie who rolls his D-20 and asks them if he should tickle Steve.

Eddie: “Okay so odd numbers mean I tickle you, and even numbers mean you get tickled by me!”

Steve: “that’s the same thi- fuUCK”

& Eddie is just relentless because ‘the dice are never wrong!’

[rosiesramblings]

Wound Up

Fandom: Stranger Things

WC: 1.3k

A/N: Hello! Long time no fic! I am here at literally the last possible second with a Squealing Santa fic for @girltickles who requested Stranger Things with Steddie or Steve and Robin - I couldn't pick so I kind of did both. Happy holidays! I hope you enjoy! @squealing-santa

Steve had been wound up tighter than one of Eddie’s guitar strings all day. Eddie had brushed it off as nerves at first - he and Steve hadn’t been dating that long, after all, and they had made plans to spend the whole day together. Eddie himself was a little anxious-excited. But the fourth time Steve shivered whenever Eddie got close, it was obvious to Eddie that something was up. So he waited, and he watched.

Steve’s hand seemed to be rubbing at the back of his neck every few minutes. He jumped when Eddie said his name, and blushed when Eddie raised an eyebrow at Steve’s antics. If Eddie didn’t know any better, he would say a toddler had inhabited Steve’s consciousness with how squirmy the guy was.

Finally, in the middle of the third Star Wars movie, when Eddie placed a hand on Steve’s knee only for Steve to leap up from the couch like he’d been shocked, Eddie decided enough was enough.

“Ok, Stevie, what the hell is going on with you today?” Eddie asked.

Steve blushed a deep red. “Nothing - I’m fine.”

Eddie didn’t dignify that with a response. He raised an eyebrow.

All at once, Steve seemed to deflate. He heaved a sigh. “Is it ok if Robin comes over?”

Eddie furrowed his brow even as he nodded. “Yeah, of course. Is this some kind of Russian interrogation trauma-bond thing?”

If possible, Steve blushed even deeper. “No, no it’s nothing like that. It’s just - it’ll be easier to explain once she gets here.”

With that, Steve slunk into the kitchen, and Eddie heard Steve dial the phone and speak in low tones before hanging up a few moments later.

Still avoiding eye contact, Steve made his way back into the living room to where Eddie was seated. “She said she was going to bike over,” he muttered.

“Well, let’s hope her balance on two wheels is better than her balance on two feet,” Eddie mused with a smile.

Steve snorted. “It isn’t. It definitely isn’t.”

Eddie played the movie, and the two watched quietly while they waited for Robin to arrive.

Arrive she did, about twenty minutes later, letting herself in with a loud, “Steve, do you have any bandaids I can borrow? Wait, who am I talking to, of course you have bandaids.”

Steve shook his head, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Why do you need bandaids?”

“I may or may not have gotten into a brief altercation with Petunia.”

Eddie looked at Steve. “Who’s Petunia?”

“Her bike,” Steve said as Robin walked into the living room.

A quick scan of her person assured Eddie that nothing was broken, just a scraped elbow that was sluggishly bleeding onto Steve’s parents’ hardwood floors.

Robin stopped in the middle of the room, squinting at Steve with a critical eye. Steve noticeably held himself still under her gaze, but couldn’t hold back a shiver that was nearly imperceptible. Robin saw it, though, and her eyes practically lit up with mischief.

“Steven Elizabeth Harrington, did you really have me bike all the way here for this? When there is a metalhead right there who I’m sure would be more than happy to provide what you need?”

Steve hid his face in his hands. “That’s so not my name. And I - I couldn’t just ask him!”

Taking advantage of Steve’s closed eyes, Robin stalked forward and threw herself atop Steve’s lap. “Well, I hope you know that since I biked all the way here, I’m not stopping until I’m satisfied.”

Eddie balked at that - he knew Robin was gay, Steve knew Robin was gay, and yet - no, there’s no way. Eddie knew he was missing a piece of the puzzle. He just couldn’t figure out what.

At Robin’s words, however, Steve let out a high-pitched whine. Eddie blinked. He’d never heard Steve make such a noise.

“Don’t give me that,” Robin teased. “If you wanted someone nice, you should have asked Eddie.”

“Um, asked Eddie what?” Eddie piped up.

The look Robin gave him was pure delight. “Asked Eddie to tickle him,” she said, and immediately dug her long fingers deep into Steve’s underarms. 

Steve gave a shout of laughter before melting back into the couch, a tension that he had been carrying all day dropping from his shoulders. His arms pressed to his sides, but from the volume of his laughter, Eddie would guess that they provided minimal protection.

Robin cooed at her platonic soulmate. “This is what you wanted, isn’t it? Just wanted to giggle for a little while?”

Steve threw his head back, “Ihihihihi - Ihihihihi don’t gihihihihiggle.”

Eddie snorted.

Robin gave a smirk. “Oh yeah? What happens if I get riiiiiiight here?” She drew her hands away from Steve’s underarms and attacked his tummy instead. Instantly, bubbly giggles filled the room as Robin scribbled over his ticklish spots, pausing momentarily to ruck Steve’s shirt up around his ribs. His giggles rose in pitch when Robin spidered over bare skin.

“Oh my god,” Eddie smiled to himself, but Robin heard him.

She beamed. “I know right! Isn’t this the best stress reliever?” She let one hand snake around to pinch at Steve’s side, resulting in a snort. “Honestly, Steve, I don’t know why you didn’t ask Eddie.”

“Ihihihihihi juhuhust couldn’t!” Steve cried out, twisting his torso in vain to get away from Robin’s evil fingers.

“Sure you could! I’ll help. Repeat after me: Eddie Munson, light of my life, moon to my stars, will you please tickle me until I forget my own name?”

Steve wailed at that, apples of his cheeks redoubling their blush. Eddie melted at the sight.

Just as suddenly as she started, Robin stopped her assault. Steve panted for breath between giggles as he blinked up at her in confusion.

“I’m waiting, Steve,” Robin sing-songed. She gently rested one hand on Steve’s hip and the other on his opposite thigh. “I’m not going to tickle you anymore until you ask Eddie to help.”

Steve’s mouth dropped open, betrayal written in the scrunch of his forehead. “Robbie,” he whined, throwing a hand up over his eyes.

“Yes?” she asked.

“Don’t make me say it.”

“But you’re so cute when you ask to be wrecked.”

“Oh my god.”

“C’mon, Stevie,” Eddie cajoled, delighted to join in the teasing. “You’ve fought monsters before. One sentence. How hard can it be?”

Steve squirmed beneath Robin’s hands, but she held firm, not a squeeze or scribble in sight.

Steve pouted. Then he sighed. Then he asked, “Eddie… would you please… would you please t-tickle me?”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Robin dug in with a vengeance, and Eddie leapt up to join her. Steve screamed with laughter as four hands descended on his body instead of two, electricity zinging through him as his friend and boyfriend grinned.

“SHIHIHIHIHIHIT! IHIHIT’S SOHOHOHOHO BAHAHAHAHAHAD,” Steve cackled, his arms coming down to unsuccessfully push at his attackers.

“Aw, but you asked for this, sweetheart,” Eddie teased, spidering his guitarist’s fingers over Steve’s rib cage. As Robin continued her devastating assault on his thighs.

“PLEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEASE,” Steve choked out, tears streaming down his face. Before long, his laughter went silent, and Robin and Eddie took that as their cue to back off. Robin swung herself down into the seat next to Steve’s and Eddie pulled Steve’s head into his lap, carding through his hair as Steve came back down to earth.

Steve’s giggles slowly petered out, and Eddie smiled down at his adorable boyfriend, who had turned to hide his face in Eddie’s tummy. That was fine with Eddie. Steve could stay there as long as he wanted.

It was Robin who spoke next. “Ok, now that that’s over, can I please have a bandaid now? I think I bled all over your couch.”

Steve just laughed.

[amazingmsme]

Such A Squealer

AN: Somehow managed to whip this up lickety split before I start on my homework. This was a really cute prompt, & lumax holds a special place in my heart. Hope y'all enjoy day 11!

Max considerer herself to be a good girlfriend, no, a great girlfriend. She shared the same interests with Lucas, she was funny, supportive, and even though she was hesitant to think so, she knew that some people would say she's pretty. (Her mom insisted on it, at least.) And to top it off, she was currently giving him a massage without even being asked.

"Okay, but it better not be some kinda trick," he teased, laying down on the bed. He rested his chin on his hands and shifted until he was comfortable. She straddled his waist and began working her palms over tense shoulders. He'd been complaining about being sore after practice, so this was the least she could do.

Her hands traveled the expanse of his back, over the rolling hills of his shoulders and the valley of his lower spine. She carried on for a few minutes before slipping her hands under his shirt to glide over bare skin. He let out pleased grunts and hums as she released the tight knots in his back, allowing his troubles to melt away.

And then her hands traveled too far down, veering off to the side and she happened to squeeze his hips. Lucas jolted as if he'd been electrocuted, and squealed. He clapped a hand to his mouth just as a grin tried to overtake his features. He'd been too late to muffle the sound, and Max's interest was piqued.

"Oh? What was that?" she asked, doing it again. Lucas jolted, arms pressing down against his sides.

"N-nothing," he said, voice at least two octaves higher. Max looked at the back of his head with skepticism and grinned.

"Mm, that didn't sound like nothing," she mused, idly drawing circles with her thumbs over his hipbones. He snorted, burying his face in a nearby pillow to muffle his laughter.

Max couldn't have that. She loved the way his laugh sounded. He didn't hold back, and it just sounded so bright it could light up a room. It was the sound of pure, unbridled joy- his joy. And she was the only making him happy. She decided she deserved to hear it and yanked the pillow away, tossing it aside.

He yelped when his shield was stolen before falling into endless giggles as Max kneaded his hips.

"Nohoho, plehehease!" he begged, curling up on his side. Max persisted and used his new position to roll him on his back. He was breathless, hair tussled and he had the biggest smile of his face she's ever seen.

"Is there a reason you've been hiding this tickle spot from me?" she asked, hands formed into claws and poised to strike. He giggled nervously and looked away.

"Ihi wasn't hiding it! You just didn't find it!" he defended himself. She arched a brow.

"You could've told me," she cooed. Lucas snorted.

"Yeah right. You just would've tortured me sooner!" he justified, unable to tear his eyes away from her hands.

"Guess I'll have to make up for lost time then," she said smugly and shrugged. His eyes widened and he tried to grab her hands and push them away, but she was too quick. Rapid squeezes to the hips assaulted his nerves and sent tiny shocks of electricity through his body. He shrieked, head thrown back against the mattress, mouth hanging open as cackles escaped. Max was glad her mom wasn't home, surely she'd think they were being killed. Now that she thought about it, maybe some of the neighbors did. Oh well, she'll be happy to explain the misunderstanding if any cops were to arrive. Hopper would certainly find it funny.

Lucas was thrashing around on the bed, laughing freely and most notably, not trying to stop her. Max grinned to herself, taking a deep breath before diving down. She blew a raspberry as hard as she could on his hipbone, and another loud squeal cut through the air. She kept going until she was smiling so wide, she couldn't get a good seal on his skin. She rose back up, so breathless and happy you'd think she was the one being tickled.

"Dude, you are such a squealer!" she teased, squeezing his hips so he couldn't protest, though he still tried.

"Ihihi aham nohohot!" he insisted through persistent giggles.

"Wanna bet?" she asked playfully, wiggling her brows at him before taking a large breath. Lucas shook his head, eyes wide and an overwhelming smile in place.

"Nonono wahahait!" She didn't wait, instead blowing another raspberry on his other hip. Needless to say, Max proved her point.

[cringemesstickles]

Tickly Kisses

(TickleTober Day 22: Ticklish Kisses)

Summary: Mike attacks Will with kisses

Pairing: Byler

Word Count: 728

A/N: the amount of byler tword content is scarce so I thought I’d contribute. Idk man they’re too cute :’)

———————————————————

The sun was setting in Hawkins Indiana, casting a golden hue through the youngest Byers’ window.

Lots of change had taken place over the course of the year, some bad, some good; one of the good changes however, was the new relationship between Will Byers and Mike Wheeler.

Today, the two lovebirds sat in Will’s bedroom, Mike flipping through an old comic book while Will sat at his desk, engrossed in his current artistic project. Though they were both doing separate activities, they were together and that’s all that they needed.

After awhile of sitting in comfortable silence, Mike started to feel bored, looking over at his boyfriend who was lost in his own world of creativity.

Getting an idea, he closed his comic book and carefully set it aside, hopping up from the bed and slowly making his way towards the unsuspecting artist.

When he reached his destination, he waited for Will to put down his pencil, not wanting to risk ruining the project by causing him to slip.

When the brunette set his pencil aside in favor of reaching for a marker, Mike put his plan into motion.

Before the boy could grab his marker, his boyfriend spun the chair around to face him, eliciting a sharp gasp from the Byers.

“Mike, you scared me- hey! Mihihike!” Any words that he tried to get out were cut off by the feeling of soft lips against his neck, peppering the skin with loving - and ticklish - kisses.

“What? I’m just showing you how much I love you.” Said the taller boy, smiling against the skin.

This comment caused Will’s cheeks to take on a rosy tint, and he was kind of glad that Mike couldn’t see it from his position.

“I-I love you tohohohohoo, but that tickles!” He giggled, hands resting on his boyfriend’s shoulders, head tipped back to welcome the affection, despite his protests.

Mike had known that Will was tickling LONG before they started dating.

He’d always tickle his - at the time - friend when he needed a pick me up or when he just seemed like he could use a good laugh, and the shorter boy never seemed to mind; he’d squirm around but would never make any attempts to escape and sometimes, albeit rarely, he’d get the courage to ask for the playful attention.

It was one of those things that made him love Will even more.

“Mike, plehehehease!”

The brunette squirmed in his seat, halfheartedly trying to dislodge his lover from his sensitive neck, which was starting to turn pink as well.

Mike started to laugh as well, the sound vibrating against Will’s skin and making it tickle more.

“I can’t help it, you’re too adorable!” He teased, continuing his barrage of ticklish kisses.

Will, though starting to reach his limit, couldn’t help the euphoria that had overcome him.

The reality of someone he loved for so long loving him back was just setting in and he couldn’t be happier, and he let himself continue to laugh and melt away into the silly moment.

“Am nohohohot! Eek- plehehease!”

The taller boy was about to relent, but then he realized there was one more thing left to do.

“Okay okay, one more thing and then I’m done…” He assured, letting Will catch his breath for a moment.

The brunette’s eyes flickered with curiosity and a trace of excitement.

“And what would thAHAHA- MIHIHIKE NO!” He squealed, childlike laughter following suit as Mike blew a sharp raspberries in the crook of his neck, sending ticklish shocks through his whole body.

“M-MIKE, CAN’T BREHEHEHEATHE!!”

At those words, the Wheeler immediately pulled away, not wanting to overwhelm his boyfriend.

He watched the artist recuperate from the tickly attack, eyes filled with love and affection.

Not missing a beat, he leaned in to connect their lips, locking them both in a soft, tender kiss.

When they pulled away, they shared a look of mutual infatuation.

“I love you, even when you torture me with tickles…” Will smiled, bashfully averting his gaze.

Mike laughed and pulled the shorter boy up from his chair, guiding them both to the bed.

“If you really love me, you’ll take a break from the paper and engage in some cuddle time~” He grinned cheekily, earning a chuckle from Will.

“Deal… but no more tickles!”

With a heart full of love, Mike smirked.

“No promises.”

[veryblushyswitch]

Nancy x Robin x Reader ~ Poly Ship (tickle fic) 🌸

Summary: Nancy and Robin find themselves falling for one of Eddie’s friends. She plays guitar, loves watching movies, and absolutely loves Nancy and Robin. It isn’t until the three of them hang out that secrets are revealed.

Lee: Reader

Lers: Nancy & Robin

Authors Note: First time ever writing for a poly relationship!! I am going to have the reader in this story go by she/they pronouns, but I will make gender neutral ones in the future. This took me so long- oh my gosh. But it’s finally done and I had such a fun time writing it!! I hope you all enjoy! 🌸 @blushyeleven 🌸

Bright colored leaves fell to the ground as an autumn wind blew across the football field of Hawkins High School. A crowd gathered in the gym while the assembly for the mid-school year was starting to begin.

“Can’t believe we have one of these in the middle of our lunch period.” Robin complained as she sat herself next to Nancy. The two had been dating in secret for a while now. Steve, Chrissy, Eddie, Johnathon and the kids knew, but other than that completely private.

“Yeah. At least we can sit next to each other the whole time.” Nancy gave Robin a wink which made her blush and playfully nudge Nancy’s leg.

“You’re such a flirt, Nancy Wheeler.” Robin whispered, poking Nancy’s side making her yelp and grab Robin’s hand.

“Only for you, Buckley.” Nancy squeezed her hand gently before interlocking their fingers together.

The assembly seemed to last forever as teachers made speeches and cheerleading routines never ended. It was always nice to see Chrissy perform though.

“This is so boring.” Robin remarked, her leg bouncing out of compulsion.

“Yeah I know, it’ll be over soon.” Nancy rubbed her thumb along Robin’s hand.

As she finished her sentence, a song started to play on the speaker. Nancy and Robin glanced at each other, both trying to hide how anxious they felt. They stared at the girl who was strumming away at her electric guitar.

The familiar riff of Don’t Bring Me Down filled the auditorium. The school decided to have a more rock sound for the pep rally and Y/N just so happened to be invited by the school to play a song.

Nancy and Robin were in love to say the least. They knew you played guitar, but they’ve never actually seen you play. Robin was blushing and Nancy was playing with her hair every now and then to try and distract herself from you.

As the performance finished, the crowd erupted into applause as you walked off stage. Nancy and Robin held hands after they clapped and nodded at each other. When they saw you after fifth period today, they were going to ask you to hang out this weekend.

~

Never in a million years would you have thought you would’ve had Robin Buckley and Nancy Wheeler inviting you over to hang out.

You’ve had a crush on both of them for quite some time, and you’ve all talked at school when you could, but you’ve never hung out with them outside of all that. You’ve talked with Eddie about how you feel and sworn him to secrecy.

As you approached the Wheeler’s residence, you took a deep breath and knocked on the door. Your heart was practically beating out of your chest as the door handle almost immediately moved and the door opened.

“Y/N!” Robin squealed as she leapt at you for a hug. You laughed at the sudden affection and hugged her back. You two had always been super affectionate individuals and hugs were a must whenever you saw each other.

“Hey Y/N.” Nancy waved from the doorway. Her other hand was playing with the hem of her skirt. She always did that when she was nervous. You started to feel a little anxious at the wonder of what she could be worried about.

“Come on in.” Nancy gestured inside. Robin took your hand and dragged you into the house and headed towards the basement.

“I’m gonna grab a couple drinks then I’ll be down.” Nancy remarked as you and Robin made yourselves comfortable on the couch.

You sat on the middle cushion and grabbed a pillow to hug against your chest. Robin made herself comfortable against your right side, leaning her head on your shoulder and looking up at you. Gosh she is so cute, you thought.

“Hey, Nancy seemed a bit… anxious when I arrived. Is something wrong?” As you asked this Robin sat up and blushed a bit.

“Y-Yeah she’s totally fine. Nothing’s wrong I promise.” She fiddled with her fingers. You felt a bit sad when she sat up. You wished she would lean against you again.

“Okay I’m back, sorry for the wait.” Nancy announced walking down the stairs. She had a water bottle in each hand and a can of coke tucked under her arm.

She handed you and Robin a water while she sat on your left and opened her coke. You all simultaneously took an awkward sip. The air was tense and you had no idea why. Other than all the gay panicking that was happening in your head-

“So… what did you guys think of the show?” You broke the ice as you set your water bottle on the table in front of you. Robin choked a bit on her water making Nancy giggle.

“It was amazing. Robin and I both agree it was the only entertaining part of the whole assembly. Other than seeing Chrissy.” You smiled an blushed a little at that. They really liked your performance?!

“I mean, Tammy Thompson was pretty entertaining if you ask me.” You snickered before all three of you broke into laughter.

It felt good to have the tension disappear. Laughter was the best way to do that when it came to the Hawkins gang.

The next couple minutes were spent talking about everyone’s day and random updates about life. Robin was talking about a work story with Steve when you noticed that Nancy was playing with the hem of her skirt again. She also seemed to be zoned out as she listened to Robin speak.

Robin finished her story and headed to the restroom. You decided to see if you could get Nancy to talk to you. It’s not like it was hard, all three of you talked to each other about everything practically. Something was clearly bothering her and you needed to know what.

“You okay Nance? You’ve been kind of anxious.” You put a hand on her knee. She jumped a bit at the action and turned towards you like a deer in the headlights.

“I-I’m fine. Just have some things on my mind.” She looked away.

“Do you wanna talk about it? You don’t have to if you don’t feel like it of course, but I’m here if you need anything.” You moved your thumb across her knee in a comforting motion making her smile.

Robin walked out of the bathroom and stopped in her tracks when she saw you two. She made eye contact with Nancy before looking back at you.

“Actually…” Nancy began, bringing your hand that was on her knee up to hold in hers. “There is something we both want to talk to you about.” Robin sat back down next to you as Nancy said this.

“Okay. Is something wrong?” You saw the color leave Robin’s face. Either something was wrong, or something was incredibly wrong. “Whatever it is, I’m here for you guys.” You took Robin’s hand in yours that wasn’t holding Nancy’s. “Nothing can change that.”

Nancy still seemed worried, but took a deep breath and managed a small smile.

“So… you know how Robin and I are… close, you could say.” You nodded along as Nancy went on. “Yeah so. We’re girlfriends. And not like fiends who are girls. We’re together.” Nancy started to tear up as Robin tried to hold back a sob while her leg bounced a million miles a minute.

“A-And we don’t want you to think any different of us w-were still us.” Robin started to full on cry as she squeezed your hand.

“Guys…” You began, tears forming in your eyes. “I don’t care about that. I’m so incredibly happy you told me this. In fact, I… I like girls too.” Now you had tears running down your face.

Nancy giggled which caused you to laugh which then caused Robin to giggle through her sobs before wrapping you in a hug. Nancy wrapped around you both as all three of you laughed and cried.

After a few minutes, you all took in some deep breaths and laid back. Nancy and Robin made eye contact then looked back at you. Robin nodded. Her and Nancy agreed they would split up telling you everything. Now it was her turn.

“There was another thing we wanted to tell you. Or more so ask you if the events went well, which they have, and I personally didn’t think it would go this well-” “Robin.” Nancy stopped her girlfriend from going on for too long. “Oh yeah, sorry.” She shook her hands a bit to let some of the nervous energy out.

“Nancy and I, we’re dating. We’re together.” You smiled hearing that again. You always had an assumption considering how close they were. But you didn’t interrupt. “And.. a-and we would like to know if- to know if you would like to date us too.”

Your eyes widened and your face blushed red. Is this really happening? You almost started crying again. You felt paralyzed. With what? Fear? Excitement? Maybe both.

“I… I would love to. Yes! I’ve actually had a crush on both of you guys for a while now! Eddie was the only one who knew and it was this whole thing- And I’m going to stop myself before I start rambling.” You cried with joy and shook your hands with happiness.

Robin and Nancy smiled and started crying again too. Cue another three way hug full of giggles and tears.

“Oh my gosh I can’t believe this is happening!” You shook your hands making Robin do the same. You both stimmed and listened as Nancy giggled at how adorable you two were being. Nancy wiped away her last few remaining tears, reaching for one your’s and Robin’s hands.

You both looked at Nancy with longing eyes as she kissed each of your hands. You felt your ears turn pink making Robin and Nancy giggle.

Robin booped your nose as Nancy poked your cheek. Your eyes widened as you covered your face to hide the blush spreading across your face.

“Awww she’s trying to hide from us Nance~” Robin cooed and poked your side. You squealed and tried to block that spot with your elbow, but it only managed to cover a small part of your ribs since you didn’t want to uncover all of your face.

The two made eye contact before scribbling at your sides. A shriek escaped your mouth as your arms came crashing down against your torso.

You threw your head back in laughter, the fingers moved up and down from your sides to your ribs and even sneaking pokes under your arms.

“Ohohohohoh my gohohosh!” You tried to curl yourself against Robin when Nancy hit a particularly sensitive spot on your ribs.

“What’s that song you were playing at the pep rally?” Nancy asked, a mischievous sparkle in her eye. You tried to protest, knowing where they were going with the playful teasing.

“Don’t Bring Me Down? Yeah I love that song! I always wondered how Y/N played it.” Robin smirked grabbing an arm to pin by the side of your head.

“Me too, Rob. Let’s try together shall we?” Nancy took your other arm and pinned it the same way.

“N-Nahancy! Robin! Plehehease!” You tried to pull at your arms but they were pinned good. They both slowly walked their first two fingers down your arm starting at your wrists.

Your giggles got louder and higher as their fingers spider crawled lower and lower till they were right above your underarms. You brought your legs up against your chest as you tried to prepare yourself for their attack.

“Ready?” Nancy asked Robin. “Go!” Robin yelled. You screamed at contact then burst into laughter as they scribbled from your underarms to your ribs and up and down and up again.

“Don’t bring me down~” Robin sang as she strummed your ribs like a guitar. “No! No! No! No! Nooo~” Nancy joined in pinching your side. They both giggled as the singing seemed to make you laugh more.

“NAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA PLEHEHEHEHEASE!” “Pleeeeease- sing another verse?” Robin teased digging a bit rougher into your lower ribs to make you squeal. “Who can say no to that?”

Nancy and Robin sang the chorus once again with your laugh as the background music.

They slowed their hands to give you a break but kept your wrists pinned to the couch. “Don’t worry we’re not done with you yet.” Robin cooed rubbing her thumb against your wrist in a comforting way.

“I didn’t know you were so ticklish~” Nancy teased lightly scratching at your tummy with her nails. This caused you to squeal and kick your legs out. The light scratches causing the butterflies in your stomach to flutter their wings even faster than you thought was possible.

“Hehehehehe! *snort* Nohohohohoho!” The light tickles caused you to snort and hide your face against the couch. Robin and Nancy could’ve died happy right then and there after hearing that noise. Well maybe after hearing it a few more times.

“That was the cutest sound I’ve ever heard!!!” Robin practically screamed. This made you laugh even more and blush at her comment. They continued to pinch and scratch at your stomach. Nancy sneakily poking at your belly button a few times to make you jump.

“Ahahahahaha! *snort* IhI cahahahahan’t!” You snorted and squealed. The light tickles filling your body warmth and happiness. Your body went into fight or flight mode, however, when you felt a pinch to your hip. Nancy jumped back at the sudden scream that was ripped from your throat.

“Ooooh Nance!! You found a tickle spot!!” Robin beamed, her eyes twinkling with delight as she started pinching your hip. You squirmed harder than ever. Your body overflowing with the ticklish sensations yelling at you to escape. Yet it was all enjoyable nonetheless. Every had their breaking point, however.

“OKAHAHAHAHAHAY! OKAY STAHAHAP! PLEHEHEHEHEASE! MERCY! UHUNCLE! PLEHEHEHASE!” You kicked your legs as you laughed those final words. Your next few breaths coming out in small giggles as Nancy and Robin withdrew their hands.

Robin brushed some hair behind your ear that had gotten in your face during all the squirming.

“You’re so cute Y/N.” Robin admired the way your eyes glistened after she spoke. Nancy agreed. “Your laugh is so beautiful and adorable. We’ll have to do this all the time.” She giggled when the comment made you blush. And just when you were calming down from the tickle attack!

Nancy and Robin practically melted at how adorable you were being. Nancy bit her lip before mustering up the courage to kiss your cheek.

Both you and Robin stared at Nancy in astonishment. “Was that okay?” Nancy asked while gripping onto her skirt. You smiled. That smile turned into a smirk as you gently took the hem of her shirt and pulled her lips to yours.

“More than okay.” You said after the kiss. You turned to Robin and did the same. Her face beamed with joy. The three of you then cuddled and soon fell asleep from an emotional few hours. Thus began a journey all three of you wouldn’t trade for anything.

[simplee-dreaming]

Who's Your Crush? Pt 2

A/n: I am SO sorry for the hiatus. It's been a time. But I'm slowly getting back into this.

Word count: 808

Summary: The reader finally admits to Mike she likes him.

-----------------------------------------

“Y/N! Hey! Y/N!” Mike called from behind you. You froze, your face flushed red.

“Breathe. You’ve got this. Remember the plan,” Dustin whispered to you but you were too nervous to even acknowledge it.

“Hey!” Mike said again as he finally caught up to you and Dustin. 

“H-hey,” you replied, shakily, giving him a small smile.

“What’s up?” He asked, towering over you. You looked up at him and gently shook your head, smiling. Mike narrowed his eyes but dropped it. 

“You alright man?” He asked Dustin. 

“Yeah. Absolutely. Never been better!” Dustin grinned. You glared at him. 

“Y/N and I were gonna head to Starcourt if you fancied it? Steve might give us free ice creams.” Dustin continued. Mike instantly agreed.

You were quiet the whole way to the mall whilst Mike and Dustin talked. Once you all reached Scoops Ahoy, Steve winked at you which made you blush again. This plan would never work. 

You found a table to sit down at once Steve gave you your free ice creams. He went back and observed from behind the counter. You glared at him too as he smirked at you. 

“So….” Mike started, breaking the silence. 

“So…I need to speak to Steve,” Dustin suddenly said, jumping up from the table. Your heart pounded now you were alone with Mike. 

“Are you okay? You’re very quiet…” 

“Yeah, I’m…I’m fine,” you lied.

“Come on, what’s wrong?” He asked, bowing his head to look at you. 

“Nothing, honestly.”

“Y/N, I want to help you. You’re my friend.” 

Your heart panged when he called you a ‘friend’. You looked down.

“Y/N?”

“It’s nothing, I promise,” you faked a smile. 

“Right, something is up and I will find you,” Mike teased. He stuck his finger in his ice cream before smearing it on your cheek. 

“Hey!” You jumped away before actually smiling and smearing your ice cream on him. He giggled and repeated the process. You got into an ice cream and he only stopped when you were really laughing. 

“Now can you tell me what’s up?” Mike asked. You instantly went quiet again. 

“Oh come on Y/N, it can’t be that bad. Can it?” 

“Allow me to help,” Steve butted in at that moment. You looked at him in fear, but he still squeezed your sides. You shrieked loudly and scooted away. Mike raised his eyebrow.

“Were you just embarrassed that you’re ticklish?” He asked, intrigued. You shook your head but blushed hard.

“Not quite,” Steve answered for you before he pounced, knocking you to the floor and tickling your ribs. Thankfully there was no one else in the store to watch you being tortured. Mike smiled as he heard your helpless giggles and shrieks. 

“‘I’m not stopping until you admit it to Mike, Y/N,” Steve sang, squeezing your sides. 

“Admit what?” Mike had to shout over your laughter. You shook your head again but screamed. 

“Dustin!”” Steve yelled. Dustin appeared for backup as he threw your shoes off to get your feet. You screamed louder and fell into a silent laughter, thrashing as much as you could. 

“NO WAHAIT!” You cried. 

“Admit it!” Steve and Dustin yelled in unison.

“NO!”

“Fine!” They sped up the tickles, causing you to let out a high pitched scream and thrash violently. 

“OHOHOKAY OKAY! PLEHEASE!” You cried out before falling back into silent laughter. Steve stopped but remained sitting on you. Dustin drew very light circles on your feet to keep you giggling. 

“Mike, Y/N has something to say,” Steve began. You closed your eyes. 

“Mihike…I…I…I lihike you,” you giggled as Dustin continued tickling your feet. 

“Wait, what?” 

“I like you!” You screeched as Dustin scribbled your feet. 

“You like me?” Mike repeated. You nodded frantically. “Well that was…unexpected…”

“Is that all you can say?” Steve asked.

“No! I just…um…I really like you too….I just didn’t think you felt the same,” Mike said, quieter than before, also blushing. 

“Wait, what?!” Steve and Dustin said, again in unison. 

“I like you too, Y/N!” Mike declared. You opened your eyes and blushed. Steve and Dustin got off of you so you could go to Mike. “I really like you,” Mike smiled at you. You drew him in for a hug which he gladly accepted. Dustin and Steve awed. 

When you pulled away, Mike went in for a kiss, which you were about to return until Steve pulled you away. 

“Not in front of me,” he scolded at you but you giggled. 

“Can I try something?” Mike asked. You nodded but furrowed your brows in confusion. However, you fell back to the floor in a fit of giggles when Mike lunged forward and squeezed your sides. It didn’t take Steve and Dustin long to help him tickle you once more. But you really didn’t mind this time. 

[writingwitharlo]

A Secret Language

a/n: MY FIRST ST FIC!!! this took way longer than expected and is therefore a big chungus

anon: steve and eddie with “It’s been a while since you tickled me.” (33)

Tickle Trope Prompts

(Stranger Things; Steve, Eddie)

3845 words

CW: implied masturbation

Eddie liked to touch. This mostly applied to soothing any anxiety his body had no other way of expelling. Whether that was picking at the dry skin of his cuticle, twirling a strand of hair between his fingers, peeling off labels from beer bottles - the list was endless.

Eddie also liked to touch people. Not inappropriately, obviously. Just in small, casual ways. Little touches like elbows and shoulders and knees bumping together in close proximity, ruffling of hair, a pat on the shoulder - that list was equally endless. 

Of course, he couldn’t just go around touching whoever he pleased and for a long time he didn’t even know how much he had craved that form of affection until new people entered his life like a stampede. 

New people who didn’t think he was weird- Well, maybe they did, but they liked that about him. New people, who actually enjoyed spending time with him and valued his opinion. It was still an adjustment, not just for Eddie, who had to learn quickly that not everyone liked to be touched. But Eddie was a quick learner, and surprisingly observant.

So, he noticed the way Nancy always moved back when someone brushed up against her even just accidentally, maintaining a secure bubble of space for herself that she only allowed to be crossed on the rarest of occasions.

Eddie also noticed how Robin hated any touch that wasn’t completely obvious when it came. He had witnessed Steve sneaking up behind her on too many occasions not to notice. How her body visibly tensed when she sensed a presence behind her and the surprised yells she let out every single time, without fail. It took poor, oblivious Steve more than one scolding to realise that Robin did not appreciate his antics in the slightest before he finally stopped.

And then there was Steve. What didn’t Eddie notice about Steve? Perhaps he noticed too much for his own good. Steve, who had never pulled away from any of Eddie’s touches, whether he had planted them on purpose or without thinking. Steve, who let his leg relax enough so his knee bumped with Eddie’s whenever they sat beside each other. Steve, who would ask for hugs whenever a specific amount of beers was in his system. Eddie had counted them. It was eight.

Perhaps it was this mutual understanding that brought the two boys closer together as time went on. The understanding of how healing touch could be, how it could be its own secret language.

It took some time before their touches turned more playful, deliberately placed to draw out a reaction from the other. At first it were harmless shoves and nudges, which turned into messing up of caringly styled hair and tripping each other up when walking, which turned into headlocks and squabbles and ended with the addition of tickling.

The discovery had happened accidentally, at least that’s how Eddie remembered it. Stuck in a particularly secure headlock, Eddie was forced to grip onto Steve’s waist for balance which worked like a charm in releasing the headlock altogether. It wasn’t until Eddie had straightened up that he noticed Steve keeping his arms protectively close, wide-eyed with a grin tugging on the corner of his mouth.

From that day on, Steve easily became the victim of one of Eddie’s tickle attacks about three times a week. Even when Steve tried to fight back or make the first move, Eddie always managed to get the upper hand. Too quickly for Steve’s liking. 

The attacks never lasted for long, at least not at first. But the longer their little game continued, the greedier Eddie became. There was this thrill he got from that kind of contact. Or was it just because the contact was with Steve?

To be fair, Eddie had not dared to tickle anyone other than Steve, besides Dustin on occasion. But that was different. Dustin needed to be reminded to respect his elders. Steve… Well, Steve just made it way too easy. 

Eddie wouldn’t consider himself a skilled tickler. How could he? He had barely had any sort of physical contact with anyone for years. Steve would probably blame it on being a skilled guitarist or something like that, because nobody had ever taken him to pieces the way Eddie had. Not that he would ever say that to his face, of course.

Either way, Eddie craved more. More choked protests, more flailing limbs, more hearty cackles and frantic giggles, more heated cheeks and tears of mirth, more twitching muscle beneath his fingertips. It was addictive and the addiction was infuriating.

Eddie found himself lying awake at night, cheeks almost sore from smiling as he replayed the sound of Steve’s laugh over and over in his head. His fingers itched to draw out more of the heavenly sound, making him restless. Dragging his fingers over his own bare torso just wasn’t quite the same, even if it did still that craving for the time being.

It wasn’t until one autumn morning that Eddie awoke with a sensation that filled him with dread. There had only been about three occasions before where Steve’s laughter had followed Eddie into his dreams. But this time was different. And it was bad.

Eddie lay as still as possible, staring at a dark spot on the ceiling as if it would help. But it didn’t and he couldn’t bear the sensation any longer. Hesitantly, he moved his hand down his torso, following the light trail of hairs beneath his belly button until he reached the waistband of his boxers. His hand paused and after a slow, deep exhale, it plunged beneath the fabric.

The problem was taken care of in no time, Eddie’s brain filled with images of that pearly white grin and scrunched up nose until he was done. He was still catching his breath, cheeks lightly flushed as he cleaned up his mess before getting dressed, ready to pretend like none of that had actually happened. 

Two more times Eddie pretended like nothing happened until the feeling of guilt and shame turned his stomach into knots. There was no denying it at that point. He had a big, fat crush on Steve Harrington.

It wasn’t right. He knew better. A touch was never just a touch. At least when it came to girls, that’s what he knew. So why should it be different with a guy? Nobody should think like that about their friend- their best friend. He didn’t know any best friends that acted the way he did with Steve. Not in that way. He cried when it happened the fourth time. 

Practically overnight, it seemed that Eddie’s hands were sewn into his pockets. The colder, brisker weather was the perfect excuse and he didn’t think Steve would even notice anyway. 

Steve noticed. Perhaps not right away but he did. He didn’t really complain when the regular tickle attacks were reduced to the occasional jab or pinch at first. When they disappeared completely, that’s when he noticed. When his hugs were no longer reciprocated and what was previously a lingering hand on his shoulder, was now a brief fistbump with his arm, that’s when he became worried.

But Steve wasn’t good at bringing up emotional stuff - it was something he was still working on - and he thought, hoped perhaps, that this behaviour was temporary. Three weeks passed until Steve’s patients broke. 

“Hey, Ed?”

“Hm?”

“What’s been going on with you?”

“What do you mean?”

The Munson trailer was cosy and surprisingly warm considering the freezing temperatures Hawkins had been experiencing. Steve pulled one foot onto the lumpy couch, tucking it beneath the other thigh as he tapped some ash from the joint into a nearby ashtray.

Steve had practically invited himself over to Eddie’s, telling him something about his parents having some important business friends over and that he would rather be anywhere than at home. That they had been on his case even more than usual recently and that he needed to take a load off. 

How was Eddie supposed to say no to that? He let him into the trailer, glad that it was already dark out and the lights in the trailer were dim so that any flushed cheeks could go unnoticed. He rolled a joint for Steve before settling back on the floor beside the coffee table where he had been before the unexpected intrusion, writing up a new DnD campaign.

Steve had watched in silence for a while, occasionally letting his gaze wander around the room to see if anything had changed. It felt like it had been ages since he was in the trailer last. Quiet music was playing from somewhere, something slow and calm.

They had passed the joint back and forth a couple times before Steve broke the silence. Weed made Steve honest, Eddie had noticed.

“I mean…” He paused to take another drag, holding the smoke to give him time to think before releasing it with an exhale. “You seem different. Feel like I’ve barely seen you recently. And when I do you’re…” He waved his hand a bit as he took another drag, making Eddie gaze up at him. “It’s like you’re barely there.”

Eddie rolled his eyes and held his hand out for his turn. Only Steve could make things sound so dramatic. “Well, I’m right here, Harrington,” he replied once he could take a drag of his own.

Steve huffed a bit at the reply and pulled his other foot up so he could sit criss-crossed, leaning forward so he could see some of what Eddie was working on. But the lights were too dim and his eyes blurred the letters anyway, so there was no point. He rubbed at his eyes as he leaned back, head tilted back against the backrest.

“It just-...” Steve took a slow breath. “It’s been a while since you tickled me.”

Eddie froze, gaze slowly lifting from the papers before him to the other boy, relieved to find him staring at the ceiling. It hadn’t been ‘a while’. It had been three weeks. That was ages, an eternity. “Okay,” he replied slowly, dragging the word out as if to imply for Steve to elaborate since he didn’t know what else he could say himself.

Of course Steve stayed silent and Eddie’s knee began to bounce beneath the table. “Are you-” No, these were dangerous waters. “Is this your way of telling me that you miss it?” He did his best to sound teasing, sarcastic, as if there was a smirk on his voice when there was only panic.

“Well… Yeah, kinda.”

Not the answer he was expecting. Shitshitshit. Steve lifted his head as he continued to talk but before his eyes could find Eddie’s, he was already focusing on his papers again, scribbling away as if he were writing real words. 

“But other stuff, too. I mean… you’re all the way over there-”

“I can’t write from the couch,” Eddie argued quickly, which was the truth. It had not stopped him from abandoning his task to join Steve for a smoke in the past though. He seemed to remember the joint in his hand and took one last long drag to finish it off, holding the smoke in for as long as he could. 

“Alright, well… You made Dustin sit between us when we went to see Star Trek.” Eddie could feel Steve’s eyes on him and he was becoming hot under his gaze. He did do that, there was no denying it. 

“And you refused to get in the front seat when I dropped you off after your last DnD session. The last four DnD sessions, actually. And you know how much I hate having Max in the front.” Eddie lifted his head again, just as slowly as before only to find Steve pouting at him. Damn, he looked cute. Close to a petulant child but still cute.

Eddie’s face was hot from his neck all the way to his ears, which were luckily hidden by his hair. 

“So, what is it?”

Eddie blinked. “What’s what?”

“What’s been going on with you?”

Eddie was backed into the corner and he could feel it. Shitshitshit. Fuck. His heart was racing faster than he would like and his hands were starting to become clammy. “N-Nothing.” He got to his feet, mumbling a quick ‘I need a drink’ as he shuffled over to the fridge.

The light cast a dim glow onto Eddie’s face and just for a few moments he closed his eyes, allowing the cooled air to hit his burning face before grabbing a can of coke. He shut the door, ready to turn back when he bumped into something solid beside him. Steve. 

“Are you avoiding me?” There was something hurt in Steve’s voice and it broke Eddie’s heart.

“N-No.” His feet moved back slightly, the proximity too overwhelming for the moment. “I’m not avoiding you.” It was a lie. This time he was physically backed into a corner, the edge of the kitchenette counter making contact as he took another small step back. 

Steve’s head tilted to the side, hands coming to rest on his hips. “Okay. Then what about all the things I just said? Because I didn’t make them up?” Curse Steve’s stubbornness.

Eddie tried to act casual, leaning back against the counter as he picked at the tab of the can, never even opening it. “It’s not-... I- I don’t want people to get the wrong idea.” That wasn’t a lie.

Steve frowned. At least Eddie imagened a frown in the pause that followed. He wasn’t exactly looking at Steve’s face. “What people?”

“You know, just-” He waved his hand uselessly. “People.”

There was another pause. “No. I don’t know.”

Eddie sighed and shook his head, about to head back over to the coffee table. “Just forget it-” But as he was about to take a step forward, so did Steve, forcing him back against the counter. 

“Why won’t you tell me?” Eddie was expecting some annoyance but as his eyes flickered up to the face that was so much closer now, all he saw was hurt, and concern -  creased brows and worry.

“I-... I uhm…” Eddie felt hot again. He swallowed and he was sure Steve could hear it. He wanted to look anywhere but at Steve but his eyes wouldn’t tear away. “I don’t-”

“I have ways of making you talk, you know?” Steve’s head tilted to the side again. The concern was fighting against something trying to take its place. And was that a smirk tugging on his lips?

“No, you don’t-” Before Eddie could even finish the words, the room was spinning. The coke slipped from his fingers as he yelped and it tumbled to the ground with a clatter. Blinking rapidly, he found himself looking down at two pairs of socked feet and the grubby tiles of the kitchen. “Steve- Agh!”

A noogie, really? They weren’t kids anymore. “Fuck off, man!” Was this his way of making him talk?

“I told you what I want.” This was certainly not how Eddie had imagined his night to go.

“Eat shit!” Eddie knew it was no use tugging on Steve’s arm. He was simply stronger. One thing Steve seemed to have forgotten was what happens when Eddie wants to get out of a headlock.

One hand slipped up his back so far as it could reach before moving to Steve’s exposed side while the other gripped onto Steve’s knee. It took him one second too many to realise what was about to happen. An indignant shriek, frantic giggles and a buckling leg later, the room was spinning again.

With a muffled thud, both boys hit the ground, their bodies entangled and piled on top of each other. Steve reached up to move his hair out of his eyes with a groan but was quick to snap his arm back down as vicious fingers formed a claw over his ribs.

“Nonono, Ed- Eddie!”

It seemed as though Eddie’s floodgates had been opened. The itch he had been denying to be scratched was gripping him, taking control of his hands as they seeked out the sensitive spots they remembered. One hand at his ribs, the other at his hip and Steve was howling.

Eddie had found a way to half straddle him and half lay on top of him, keeping him on his back despite his useless kicks and desperate protests. Steve’s free hand, the one not protecting his ribs, came up to grip at Eddie’s shoulder. Eddie figured it was an attempt to push him away but the laughter had Steve weak, as usual. So, of course he took his opening. 

Steve’s back arched off the floor when the claw from his hip darted right into his armpit. He bucked his hips a couple times before his silent laughter rendered him useless. Only now did Eddie realise that he was laughing too, clearly enjoying his friend’s misery. His friend…

Eddie’s hands stilled suddenly and he moved to sit up, clearing his throat awkwardly. His whole body was burning, only this time he wasn’t sure if it was due to the proximity or the exertion. It didn’t matter. He moved to a crouch but before he could rise up, the room turned into a blur for a third time as something solid collided with him from behind. 

With a grunt, Eddie landed face first in the worn down carpet beside the kitchen. Luckily, he had been able to catch most of his weight with his hands but before he got a moment to turn around and question the culprit, warmth settled against the back of his thighs. Eddie’s breath hitched and the counter attack began. 

“Don’t think I’m done with you yet, Munson.”

Eddie was mainly surprised by the lack of breathlessness in Steve's voice, having expected him to take longer to recover. That’s all he really got to think about as those rapid squeezes focused right above the back of his knee, firing up the nerve endings all the way up his thighs. Not good. Very much not good.

“Fuck, Steve! Get off, I mean it!” He tried to sound as serious as he could but his own giggly voice was ruining that for him. Lucky for him, Steve hadn’t thought to pin him down or lay on top of him.

With a bit of a struggle, Eddie managed to flip onto his back, which ended the attack on his legs but opened up all the other spots he would have been able to protect otherwise. He wasn’t going down without a fight. 

They grappled for a while, shouting for the other to give up while maintaining their own stubbornness. Steve got Eddie on his back more often, just because he was stronger. Eddie was more nimble, though. This time he brought one hand up between them, fluttering his fingers against Steve’s belly, where the fabric of his shirt hung loosely from his frame.

Steve yelped and flopped right on top of Eddie, who groaned quietly while still trying to get free and avoid the other’s questioning. It was useless.

“Why won’t you tell me?” They were the only words Steve had repeated over and over since the counter attack.

“Fuck off!” The heat in Eddie’s voice disappeared when a smile betrayed him, shoving at Steve to get him off. 

“Tell me!”

“No!”

“Munson, tell me!”

“Why are you so stupid?” Eddie grabbed either side of Steve’s face-

“Well, that’s just m- hmb.” and brought their lips crashing together. 

Everything stopped. For all he knew, Hawkins and all of the world had been swallowed up by the Upsidedown after all. But when Eddie finally pulled away again, Steve was still right there, staring back at him with wide eyes. The skin beneath his fingers felt hot, so Eddie released him and scrambled to sit up. “That’s why.”

He can’t help the bitterness that seeps through as he gets up, brushing himself off before heading back over to the coffee table. He slumped back down on the floor, staring blankly at his scribbles as he waited for Steve to run out or come over to hit him or anything. Anything would be nice. Out of all the options he had, Eddie would not have put ‘laughing his ass off’ on the list.

Except, that was exactly what happened. It started with a couple chuckles at first and quickly grew to full on hysterics. Eddie’s brows furrowed together in confusion. He couldn’t see the other boy from his spot on the floor. All he could see was a mop of brown hair on the floor just past the counter. 

“Eddie!” Steve called out when he got enough air in his lungs but Eddie refused to answer, just watching the mop of hair move until he was fully out of sight. There was a groan and an attempt at composure before Steve came into view again. Slowly, he lifted himself to his feet, gripping the counter for support as the occasional wave of laughter still shook through him, making it hard to stay upright. 

“Eddie.” Steve wiped at his teary eyes before spotting the other over on the floor, slowly staggering over towards him. 

Eddie tried to remain as still as possible despite his trembling, hoping silently that Steve might not see him and just decide to go home. He continued to hope even when Steve was already coming to crouch beside him.

Eddie’s brows stayed furrowed, eyes slightly widened as he tried to see as much as possible in the dim light. Steve just stared at him with that goofy grin of his, the one he only wore when he had given up on trying to stop smiling. “What?” Eddie asked, trying to sound annoyed or at least impassive.

Steve blinked, his head tilting to the side like a curious puppy with his warm eyes sparkling in the dark. “You’re an idiot.” Before Eddie could ask what he meant, lips were against his again, softer and less forced than his but still eager.

Eddie couldn’t comprehend. Perhaps he was too high to comprehend and it didn’t matter. All he knew was that Steve hadn’t run out or tried to beat him up but rather came back for more. There were so many unformed questions swirling around in his mind, all of which he refused to acknowledge as he gripped onto Steve’s shirt.

A loud bang made the two fly away from each other. They looked around, panicked and confused before realising what had happened. Their eyes met and this time, both of them fell into hysterical laughter, gripping the other for support as tears filled their eyes that were impossible to hold back.

The can of coke Eddie had dropped had chosen that exact moment to explode on them, the carbonation bursting through the weakened seal that Eddie had fiddled with. 

Almost symbolically, with the release of the carbonation, all tension between the two boys had vanished. 

[ticklishraspberries]

Ren Faire (Eddie/Steve)

Summary: Steve, Eddie, and Robin go to a Renaissance Fair and see some interesting demonstrations. (This fic is for my lovely friend @gigglyrambles!! I literally just pulled this whole plot out of my ass and wrote it in one sitting, so I really hope you like it, LOL. Also, shoutout to @wordstrings because I know she has written something similar for Our Flag Means Death, I hope you don't mind me taking inspiration!!)

Steve isn’t sure how he ended up being dragged along to a Renaissance Fair with none other than Robin and Eddie, but he found it hard to say no to either of their puppy dog eyes and incessant begging.

His outfit is simple, consisting of a white, long-sleeved shirt with laces at the neckline, tight brown pants, and brown boots. He feels only a little bit ridiculous, but after seeing what his friends are wearing, he supposes he isn’t the weirdest looking one.

Eddie is decked out in black, an intricately detailed top with ruffles and buttons. A fake sword sits in a holder on his waist. Robin has gone for a more masculine look, a cloak over her shoulders and a bow and arrow in her hand.

“Screw historical accuracy,” she’d said.

“The fact that you’re a girl isn’t the problem, it’s that you couldn’t hit a moving target with an arrow to save your life,” Eddie had teased, and Robin had elbowed him in the ribs, making Steve laugh.

Now that they’ve arrived, Steve has relaxed a bit. He used to feel out of place whenever he attended events that he wouldn’t have been caught dead at in high school. Corroded Coffin concerts, DnD campaigns, and that one time he drove Eddie and Robin to the nearest gay bar in Indiana. It had definitely been more awkward sober, and before he realized that he’s bisexual, and could have totally had more fun if he’d been aware of and okay with that information at the time.

He’s sort of glad he wasn’t, though, because kissing Eddie Munson during a childish game of truth or dare was a much funnier way to have your queer awakening, and dating Eddie Munson is way more fun than hooking up with random guys in a bar.

“They have really good beer here,” Eddie comments, to which Steve holds up his car keys and jingles them. No medieval mead is going to keep him from being the designated driver.

“I can drive us home,” Robin says, absolutely joking, but Steve still gives her a horrified look and makes a show of sliding his keys back into his pocket, patting the denim for safe keeping. She sticks her tongue out at him, and he flicks her cheek.

Eddie does end up getting some beer, and Steve allows himself a few sips. They’ll be here for at least a few hours, he’ll surely sober up by then. He also samples the gigantic turkey leg that Eddie gets, and Robin wrinkles her nose in disgust at the messy nature of the food.

As they walk around, Steve finds himself getting into the spirit more than he had expected. They eat, watch musical performances, and shop at the little stalls set up by various vendors. Eddie buys a few rings for himself, and buys a handmade mug for Uncle Wayne. Robin indulges in candles and soaps, and even dares to see a fortune teller.

“She said that I’ll meet my future husband soon,” she says, giggling. “Clearly she’s a fraud, or she’d know I’m not interested.”

When Robin runs off to find a bathroom, somehow, Eddie and Steve end up standing around a demonstration about medieval punishments and torture, which Steve expects to be gruesome, and quickly finds he would rather hear gritty, gorey details than stand her and watch this happen.

A pretty girl, probably around their age, is locked into a pair of wooden stocks, and—

“You’ve gotta be kidding me,” Steve mutters, pinching the bridge of his nose between his fingers.

Eddie looks absolutely delighted as he leans in close. “What’s wrong, Stevie? The demonstration isn’t bothering you, is it?” he asks. His cheeks are flushed, too. A few months ago, Eddie would probably be the one stuttering and staring at the ground right now, but ever since he introduced this little world to Steve, he’s gained a confidence about it that only comes out when he gets to tease Steve into oblivion.

“Shut up.”

“You shut up, I’m trying to watch. Maybe I can get some pointers from these guys.”

‘These guys’ refers to the two men who have started tickling the girl’s trapped feet, and frantic giggles fill the air and make Steve’s stomach flip.

“Oh, she’s handling this better than you would,” Eddie continues to tease. “I’d already be called every insult under the sun if you couldn’t kick me instead.”

“I will kick you right now,” Steve threatens. It’s a complete lie. He’s frozen to the spot on the grass, torn between watching and focusing on the grass. Everyone else in the crowd is behaving like this is so normal, no big deal, just a silly show.

One of the men has moved behind the girl to tickle her ribs, her arms secured above her head. Steve crosses his arms over his chest, subconsciously protecting his own sensitive spots, like just watching her could tickle him, too.

“You love that spot,” Eddie coos. “You make the cutest sounds when I tickle you there.”

“I’m gonna fuckin’ kill you,” Steve grits out.

“Sure you will, sweetheart. Can it wait ‘til after I’ve made you cry real pretty for me?”

Just then, Robin appears at his side. “This looks like my worst nightmare,” she says. “I hope this girl is getting paid well.”

Steve makes a noise of agreement, but can’t bring himself to look over. Eddie Munson is going to be the fucking death of him. Thankfully, Robin is immediately bored of the display and drags them off to explore. Eddie subtly gives Steve’s side a quick pinch as he walks past him, and Steve suddenly can’t wait to go home.

***

“You are a fucking menace,” Steve accuses the moment they’ve made it through the door.

His parents aren’t home, Robin was dropped off back at her house, and now, Steve is alone with Eddie for the first time all day, and he refuses to voice how excited he is for whatever Eddie’s got planned.

But Eddie just grins, tugging off the more elaborate pieces of his costume, leaving himself in socks, boxers, and a white t-shirt. He makes his way to the kitchen, comes back with two cans of beer, sits on the couch like he isn’t ignoring the clear tension in the room.

Steve gapes at him for a minute before joining him on the couch, kicking off his boots and taking a beer as well. Maybe Eddie’s changed his mind…Maybe he just isn’t the mood, and Steve isn’t going to pressure him into anything.

But…Well, he has a sneaking suspicion that isn’t the case at all.

“If you’re waiting for me to ask, it’s not gonna happen,” he says.

“Ask for what?” Eddie tilts his head curiously, but there’s a glint in his eye that proves Steve’s theory.

“Nothing,” Steve replies, playing along. “All that talk back there just made me think you had a plan for when we got home. But if you’re not interested, that’s fine too.”

“Did you want me to have a plan?”

Steve huffs. “Maybe. But if you don’t, then let’s forget about it.”

“Oh, c’mon baby,” Eddie says, throwing an arm around Steve’s shoulders and pulling him close. “All you’ve gotta do is ask if you want it so bad.”

His cheeks burn. Stubborn as ever, he shakes his head.

Eddie sighs with exaggerated disappointment. “If you insist. I guess I’ll just keep my hands to myself tonight…”

“Good,” Steve says, and turns the television on.

It takes two beers and a stupid scene in a film to break him. It’s a quick, barely there tickle, but the character’s laugh makes Steve perk up like a dog hearing a doorbell ring.

“Fine,” he says.

“What’s fine?” Eddie asks.

“Just fucking tickle me, you dick.”

Eddie grins and wastes no time, lunging across the couch and pinning Steve to the cushions.

“I knew you’d crack eventually, sweetheart,” he teases. “Sorry we don’t have quite the same set up, but I’ll hold you down real nice, okay?”

Steve is already grinning. He can’t help it, he’s so lovestruck by his boyfriend and desperate to laugh his head off. And laugh he does when Eddie goes straight for his ribs, scratching at the dips between each little bone.

“There’s that pretty sound,” he says, pressing a kiss to Steve’s jaw that is both sweet and ticklish under the current circumstance.

The stupid shirt with the laces is pulled over his head and discarded on the floor, and Eddie pins Steve’s wrists and tells him to stay still before exploring each ticklish spot on his torso, making him shriek and cackle and snort like a fool.

He doesn’t stay still for very long, arms shooting down to his sides when Eddie attacks his belly with blunt fingernails, and Eddie scolds him but doesn’t stop.

As he squirms on the couch, giggling like mad, he wonders if they sell some of those bondage contraptions there. He thinks that they should go back to the Ren Faire sometime. 

[mimimunson]

Drunken fingertips<3

CW- tickling, mention of the police, mention of marijuana, mention of homophobia and bullying but is quite brief, intoxication.

Note- this is my first fic that I have ever written and the first fic I’ve felt semi-confident to post. Please be kind. This is first and foremost a tickle fic so if that isn’t your thing please scroll!! Minors DNI! This is not a tickle kink fic, but kinksters can interact!

Eddie Munson was by no means shy. As long as he could remember he’d always had a theatrical personality, he’d always felt like if he didn’t make someone laugh during the day, the day was wasted. He’d always found beauty in smiles and laughter, he found it endearing that no two laughs were the same. In fact, it’s kinda how he found out he liked boys. Coming out was a difficult experience, but Wayne told him what or who he did in his own bed was his own business. Eddie didn’t need aggressive acceptance, but the casual reminder that he was allowed to be queer. I mean he’d never admit that he flunked most of his classes because he was staring at admiring the guy across from him, he had a metal head persona to attend to but silliness was definitely his strong point.

With the up-bringing he had, it’s no shock that he was touch starved. That all changed when he met his new group of friends, they were all social rejects the same as him. All except Steve Harrington. He was the jock, the king of Hawkins-High. He wasn’t quite like the rest of the popular kids though. While they were calling kids slurs and laughing through the bullying they permitted, he’d stand there with a flushed face, stone cold silent. Steve wasn’t a stranger to Eddie before that, he was the guy he sat next to in his third period biology class on a Tuesday, the one he’d casually admire whilst pretending to take notes.

Steve was a different person then, now he would never stand by and let his so called friends verbally abuse others. Maybe it was his friendship with Robin that had opened his eyes to his own by-standing homophobia. But it was probably because he sat next to Eddie on the couch every Friday movie night in Wheeler’s basement. Steve wholeheartedly believed that sitting next to Eddie weekly was enough to make any man question their sexuality.

Eddie didn’t know how he got here, his knees grazing against Steve’s with his arm resting on the arm of the couch behind him. Both lightly buzzed on beer, whispering away to each other while the rest of the party were fixated on the next movie in their Star-Wars binge. He’d noticed more about Steve in the last 20 minutes than he did that whole year of biology class, his hair had a few strands of blonde mixed in with the brunette locks and when he smiled he had a dimple on the right side of his mouth.

“You have a dimple”

Eddie half-whispered and smirked, attempting to point at Steve’s cheek but narrowly missing from his intoxication. He playfully shrugged it off as if he meant to do that of course he did.

“Okay? So lots of people have dimples Munson.”

Steve shrugged and half smiled in Eddie’s direction.

“No no, you, King Steve have one singular dimple, not plural dimples. One. Only on this side”

Eddie spoke holding up his index finger, pointing as Steve’s face. Steve rolled his eyes and chuckled, nobody, not even he had noticed his singular dimple before.

“I get it now, shh I’m trying to watch the movie.”

He lied through his teeth, mocking Eddie’s performative hand gestures. He could tell Eddie was a little more tipsy than he was, the main clue being the 4 extra empty beer bottles beside him. Eddie giggled, brushing his curls out of his face.

“One Steve. One. Where’s your other dimple? Someone steal it?”

Steve rolled his eyes once more at his drunken friend. “Maybe” he shrugged, “have you got it Eds?”

He smiled, leaning his body weight a little closer towards him.

Eddie’s flushed a little at his words, “Eds”. Steve was the only person who called him that, he was like that scene in the grinch where his heart grows 4 sizes bigger whenever Steve called him that. It felt intimate, a moment that only they could share.

“Listen man, I am not a thief” he held his hands up at the accusation, his smile beaming over at him.

“I’m afraid I’m gonna have to search you, it’s official police business.”

He joked, patting down Eddie’s denim jacket. Giggling when he felt the outline of his grinder and lighter from inside his pockets.

“Drug paraphernalia.. I’m pretty sure that’s a crime. I’ve not been on the job long but I don’t know Munson, it’s not looking good for you.”

He laughed, pretending to check an imaginary watch on his wrist as if a watch could tell him how long he’d been working a profession for.

“Cuff me officer Harrington, for the crime of being a stoner.” Eddie barely spluttered that sentence out before erupting into laughter.

“Oh you think breaking the law is funny Munson?”

He said shifting himself closer to the drunken boy. Grabbing both wrists in one hand, pinning him to the couch, lightly running his fingers across his arms.

“This is funny?!”

Steve continued his ‘pat down’ if you can call it that, he was poking Eddie’s stomach with emphasis to his words.

“I did not know you were such a criminal. You’re on the wrong tracks man, it’s not too late to change your ways”

Eddie could feel his face burning. Steve was not only touching him, man he’d have to remember that for a later daydream, but he was tickling him.

“Fuck Steve come on don’t do that”

Half trying to slap at his hands but missing them in his inebriated state and half trying to hide the ever growing blush on his face. Drowning in a sea of laughter.

“What’s the matter Eds? This is formal policy, I have to do this.”

Steve caught on pretty quickly that he wasn’t laughing at his pretty wooden acting and more so that his pat was something of a ticklish situation for his friend.

“I- shut up.”

Eddie could hardly contain himself, apparently trying to juggle the need to grab Steve’s face and pull him in for a passionate make out session, hiding his blushing face and trying to pretend like he isn’t being tickled shitless was hard for him.

“Munson, you’re really fucking ticklish you know? If you ever actually get caught for possession you are so screwed.”

Harrington proclaimed laughing alongside his friend, holding him down with one hand so he doesn’t squirm his way off the couch.

“I am so gonna kill you.”

He spluttered out in between gasping for breath. Steve’s hands slowed until they halted, towering over Eddie admiring how his curls were like little spirals framing his face, he even found himself doting on the way he looked up at him. His iris’s were camouflaged into his pupils, his eyes were such a deep shade of brown, but when the light hit them just right they looked almost amber. They always complimented his smile, he definitely smiled through his eyes.

“You’ve still got the same smile, it hasn’t changed since we were assigned seats together.”

Steve whispered, his bisexuality was still hush-hush. He’d only confided in Robin before this moment, he found it difficult sure, but hiding anything from Robin was more of a challenge. She’d sussed out his crush on Eddie from the first moment Dustin introduced them. The way he couldn’t help but look at the floor because holding eye contact was painful, the way he’d look like a sick puppy every time Eddie wasn’t able to join in a trip with the party. But mostly the way that Steve had drunkenly confessed that his bi-awakening was Eddie Munson between spitting vomit into the toilet and sharing confessions with each other.

“You remember me?”

Eddie had his hand over his eyes, slightly peaking between the gap through his middle and ring finger. As if missing this moment was not an option, even if the crimson blush burning into his cheeks wasn’t fighting its corner.

“How could I forget the guy who would stroll into class 45 minutes late, smelling of weed, tripping over thin air and flopping himself down beside me not saying a single word but doodling for the remainder of the lesson? I remember most of it, including the times I could feel your eyes burning into the side of my face like a laser.”

Eddie was mortified at this point. He truly thought he had stealth like skills for daydreaming next to pretty boys but regardless, he wasn’t ashamed. He’d do it all again.

“Oh. You saw that huh? I- I just. I just-“

Before the metal head could even finish his sentence, Steve put his finger up to his own lips.

“No need to explain, I get it.”

He nodded, he never wanted to make him feel embarrassed about who he was.

“It’s rough, teen years I mean. For guys like us especially.”

“Guys like us?” Eddie shot him a bewildered look. He couldn’t possibly mean he was- did he?

“You know. Guys like us. Guys who like guys. I mean I’m a guy who likes guys and girls”

Steve is fumbling all his words right now, nervously trying to explain himself was harder than he imagined.

“Listen don’t tell anyone I told you that though man, only Rob knows. Maybe I’m just a bit drunk but, you look so pretty like this. Peach coloured cheeks and that smile. Damn. See this is what I said to Robin, Eddie Munson just- well just looking at him opened my eyes to who I am.”

Steve interrupted himself, realising he’d said that all out loud. After a few seconds of consideration in his head, he was too drunk to care.

“You looking at me with those doe eyes in biology, it made me realise yeah so I’m like definitely bisexual.”

He felt a huge weight lifted off his shoulders, looking down at Eddie who had practically shrunk so far down into the couch that he looked like a part of it. But he was still smiling, still looking at him in the same way.

He lifted himself, sitting upright with his back against the cushions. Grabbing two bottles, ripping the caps off with his teeth.

“Interesting.” Munson divulged, not even noticing that the entire party was staring at them both with their jaws to the floor.

“You owe me 20 dollars!! I told you!!”

Henderson rose up, laughing and pointing at Mike. He always did like to be proved right. The party later found out that Dustin was certain his ‘gay-dar’ was spot on but Wheeler told him it was just broken, it was smashed right into the ground.

“I TOLD you guys, but hey, what do I know?”

Cherry-faced, Steve and Eddie looked at each other, and back at the party, and in perfect unison took several big swigs of their beers.

[theoncelee]

Oh my GOD this is ADORABLE author you cannot do this to me at 7am

Of Campaigns & Revelations (Steve/Eddie)

Fandom: Stranger Things Characters: Steve Harrington & Eddie Munson Summary: Eddie loves planning campaigns, Steve loves planning events. So how exactly did the dream team get so sidetracked? Words: 2700+

Notes: Ahhhh not only is he late with his first fic on this account, but he's late for SS too. I was lucky enough to write a fic for the absolutely incredibly talented @rosiesramblings! I tried to use all of your prompts (earning a reward, too much energy and boredom) somewhere in the fic and apologies for the late post, but I hope you like It!!! A big thank you to our lovely host @hypahticklish too. Happy happy holidays and a wonderful new year to everyone.

Sometimes, Eddie Munson laughs and Steve swears it could shatter that Garfield mug he’s so obsessed with— despite the fact that he only uses the damn thing for hot chocolate.

Like the breathy laughter that burst from his lips last friday, When Robin spent a little too long comparing an old photo of Steve to the baby from The Labyrinth. Most memorably, a joke about their shared fashion taste had the party’s favorite dungeon master quite literally wheezing on the shag carpet, clutching his sides as if he’d never recover from the sheer hilarity of it all.

Or perhaps he was thinking of the high pitched yelp of laughter that broke free every time he was caught off guard. As much as Eddie hated to be genuinely scared, he found way too much amusement in getting jump scared. Shitty horror films, friends hiding behind doors, or even that lame haunted house from Halloween— All of the above earned the same result, a shriek that dissolved into laughter about halfway through.

Then again, they weren’t all bubbly and loud. Eddie’s laughter could be soft and sweet too, harboring an almost shy cadence when the time called for it and…

It’s at this exact moment, with utensils ever so neatly tucked into napkins and plates set along the grand mahogany dining room table, that Steve realizes he’s been thinking about Eddie Munson way too much. All it took was one crappy little chuckle, one silly reaction to a half assed joke, for his thoughts to wander. Anything the other said during his trance was a mystery, though as that playful voice came back into frame, Steve figured the context clues were probably easy enough to figure out.

“-not a fighter, clearly. Maybe a Paladin or a bard. One thing is for sure, you’d definitely play an elf or a half elf. A prince maybe. Estranged?” Eddie’s rambles are definitely pointed towards him, although it’s clearly more of a conversation with himself than anything else.

Calf crossed over thigh, he sits on the kitchen counter. Pale hands hold a green piping bag steady over a tray of freshly cooked sugar cookies, adding some ghoulish finishing touches. “Just say the word, Big Boy, and I’ll create the most perfect, personalized Steve Harrington campaign of the year.”

“You mean the only Steve Harrington campaign of the year?” Steve retorts.

Just like always, sarcasm drips from his lips like honey. Even after volunteering his house, time and energy to Eddie and his Hellfire Goblins, the self proclaimed babysitter still can’t seem to fight his natural born grumpiness.

That persona was like a security blanket or a teddy bear; Steve’s always relied on it to make the world less scary or more accurately, to make himself less vulnerable. The Harrington Boy, The King, The Babysitter, every new iteration had improvements, but they also had one thing in common: A security mechanism, an off switch of sorts. Something that Eddie Munson clearly lacked.

“Only cause you’re a buzzkill.” Eddie insists, licking a bit of green from his fingertips.

The cookies are far from perfect but they’ll undoubtedly impress the kids. Dark eyes examine each one with a precision he definitely didn’t supply when creating them, though eventually he deems them good enough with a dimpled grin and a cheeky thumbs up.

With two hours left on the clock, Eddie finds himself at a loss. All the fun tasks for the campaign tonight have been finished. Food and snacks were the first on the list to be crossed off with pizza scheduled for later and fresh baked cookies set to the side. Decorations were next. Everything from miniature figurines to home made maps to origami dragons and mini potion bottles for the kids filled with juice.

The idea to spike the potion bottles had been vetoed with a very amusing yet indignant huff. Despite Eddie's insistence that he was a 'born rebel' at fifteen, Steve refuses to give them a lick of alcohol before they hit senior year.

Aside from that, all that was left was mundane tasks like vacuuming or cleaning up the newly created mess in the kitchen. Most people would have cheered, thankful to finish their list of chores before the fun could begin. Though most people didn’t have as much energy as Eddie Munson.

“Well this is it, Stevie.” Eddie pipes up a few moments later, watching the other brunette readjust the table settings for a bunch of soon to be sophomores who definitely wouldn’t notice if the fork was on the left side or the right. “Two hours left and you’re too busy turning my campaign into a murder mystery dinner to pay attention to me so clearly? I’m dying. I can’t believe I’m gonna die of boredom in the Harrington Household… So big. So cold. So… white and mundane for someone as vibrant as myself.”

Eddie’s melodramatic performance is enough to peak Steve’s interest, but not his amusement.

“Finish Vacuuming the living room or stop complaining” Steve answers flatly. Over time, he’s learned that playing into the antics only magnifies them. Ninety nine percent of the time, just disregarding Eddie’s insane childish tendencies made them go away. “Besides, you can’t die from boredom.”

Ninety nine percent of the time, that would have worked.

Unfortunately, there was still that worrisome one percent to worry about.

“Well you might.”

“I might what—” Oblivious as ever, Steve finally ditches the table settings. Turning on his heel, the brunette’s lips are already parted, ready to question what the hell that response implies when he catches sight of the other’s stance.

Kitchen counter long since abandoned, the feisty dungeon master is taking stake across the room. Socked feet slide across dark polished wood, eerily unsettling in the quiet pace they set. Pale hands are held up, turned into claws with wiggling fingers that make Steve’s stomach flip as uncertainty settles in.

“Okay, okay. You might not die from my boredom.” Eddie hums lowly, lips curling into a grin that can only be described as downright mischievous. Each word is drawn out slower than the last, anticipation building between the two. “But you might not survive the cure. Let's see. I already tried knock knock jokes, barely effective. Funny movies, ehh somewhat works— Unless they’re too weird. Then you just sit all grumpy and confused— Anyway, not the point! Dear Steven, my point is…”

Similar to those puzzles Nancy used to force on him while babysitting Mike, he should’ve figured it out sooner, but he’s definitely seeing the picture a bit more clearly with time. They’re approximately halfway through Eddie’s villainous monologue when it clicks. Every example revolves around making him laugh which is an incredibly flustering thought all on its own. Out of all the ways to cure his boredom, Eddie wanted to do so while making Steve smile. Most people focused on his hair, his ass, his better known assets.

Eddie Munson was the first person to ever fixate on something so mundane.

Thankfully, Steve doesn’t have a second to worry about the heat crawling up the back of his neck, or the slowly developing crush that he’s most certainly going to ignore.

“… that I never asked if you were ticklish. Always felt like a cheap shot, you know? Low hanging fruit, but in the name of science, we do have to test every—” And that’s all it takes. The second the word ticklish leaves Eddie’s lips, the former jock is sprinting across the length of the dining room table and out of the room.

Heart hammering in his chest, the beat is so loud Steve can practically hear it ringing in his ears. White converse round a corner, running into the living room while quick footsteps sound close behind.

“Oh come on, Pretty Boy.” Eddie snorts through a laugh of his own. “Don’t run away from me!”

If he just looked back, he would have seen the way Eddie smiled at him from ear to ear, excitement and giddiness bursting from his pores. He would have seen the way the other nearly slipped in his socks, clearly lacking any grip as they ran around like little boys again. He would have seen the way those dark eyes lingered, how they drank him in, admiring his toned legs from years of athletics.

If he just looked back, maybe he would have registered how close he was to his demise. Then again, if he looked back, then Eddie might have seen how flustering that pet name was, or worse: He could have seen the smile tugging at his lips.

One foot rounds the corner of the couch but never gets the opportunity to touch down. Instead, fingers curl around the back of his sweater, swiftly pulling Steve until he’s falling. His back hits the sofa cushions with a soft grunt, brown locks splayed across the decorative pillow.

Everything flips in an instant. Eddie’s upper hand turns to shit the second he jumps onto the couch. Leaving more than enough room in between them, Steve takes the opportunity to act. Lightning quick reflexes give him just enough time to weave underneath the metalhead’s arm, flipping their positions until Eddie’s the one with his back against the couch and wide eyes looking up.

Though rather than looking scared he looks… exhilarated.

Any anxiety written across Steve’s face a minute ago is missing from Eddie’s now. As the general surprise wears off, he goes from wide eyed to giggly, immediately throwing his hands up in a mercy pose he knows won’t work. Wild curls fall in every direction, the occasional soft breathy laugh stumbling from his lips as he tries to worm out from underneath Steve’s pin.

“Stevie, C’mon. I was just trying to have a little bit of fun- Wait wait- Steve Hey-” In the long debated question of Dungeon Master Vs. Varsity Athlete, they finally know who comes out on top. Eddie’s rambled mixture of explanations, apologies and pleas fall on deaf ears the second nimble fingers touch down on his sides.

One of the most accessible vantage points, it proves rather successful when one squeeze elicits a sharp huff, all the air in his lungs leaving at once. Eddie’s body instinctively tries to pull away again, hands attempting to intercept Steve’s insistent poking and prodding of the soft flesh.

The silence lasts all of seven seconds. Any attempt to threaten Steve dies on his lips, choked out to make room for all the laughter taking control. Immediately thrashing around to the best of his ability, it’s clear that Eddie’s not going down peacefully.

“A little bit of fun doing what, Eds?” Steve questions. “Annoying me? Chasing me around my own house? I mean, shit, Munson. How the hell do you even have all of this energy? Honestly. I did you a favor flipping the tables, you clearly needed to tire yourself out.”

Each new guess and tease is accentuated with another poke at his vulnerable sides. One to the left right below his ribs, one to the right closer to his back, two on either side near his tummy, and one aimed in that squishy spot directly above his pantline— One that has his giggles interlaced with squeaks and squeals, struggling to handle any sort of stimulation that close to his hips.

“Nohohoho not thehehere!” Eddie whines half heartedly, though Steve can’t help but notice how little he fights back, hardly using any strength whatsoever in his attempts to grab onto those tortuous digits.

Thankfully for the thrashing Dungeon Master, Steve doesn’t get the chance to drill his thumbs into the divots of his hips for very long. An incredible stop on his grand tour of Eddie Munson’s giggle buttons, the destination proves to be too much. One sharp dig earns a yell so piercing the neighbor’s dog begins to bark, rough hands diving forward to grab onto anything for some sort of stability.

What Eddie’s trained fingers find instead is that squeezing Steve Harrington’s thighs renders the guy practically useless. A loud shriek splatters around the room, high pitched almost desperate giggles flying from his mouth. Any ounce of strength was sapped, curling up against Eddie’s chest in a way he’d swear was romantic in any other circumstance.

Umber eyes meet hazel, gazes locked with recognition on both sides before the tables are flipped yet again. Eddie hooks a leg underneath Steve’s knee, an arm worming out from below to wrap around his waist.

Before the Family Video employee can so much as suck in a breath from his fit of giggles, they’re back in the original position with a self proclaimed babysitter pretending not to enjoy himself on bottom and a metalhead who couldn’t hide it if he tried on top.

It turns out that Steve Harrington fucking shape shifts when you tickle him. The former jock’s confident sarcastic persona changes to something else entirely. If Eddie’s attempts to get away were half assed then Steve’s attempts don’t exist. Every new spot or tactic is brought with a new form of laughter, but they all have the same thing in common:

Steve’s leaning into it.

There’s no denying it. When teasing nails drag up his side, he turns into the affection rather than away from it. When his lower stomach is kneaded like a fresh pile of dough, he leans forward instead of pushing back. And when thumbs drill into his armpits, the brunette actually attempts to keep his arms up or at least not locked at his sides god forbid their fun ends too soon after being blocked.

Of course, Steve doesn’t notice this. Nor does he realize that Eddie was noticing this, but one of them has to be the observant one and it’s not the mess of giggles currently turning rosier with every passing second.

It’s almost as if their enjoyment is the key. Once that last bit of hesitance drains out, calloused fingers waste no time. Eddie changes spots again, this time clawing at his ribs with a smile that reeks of both vengeance and affection, a combo punch that would have made Steve breathless if he wasn’t already dissolving under deep belly laughter.

There’s way less talking now too. While Eddie’s an incredibly wiggly and talkative victim, babbling and thrashing through his hysterics, Steve seems to struggle getting anything out other than his laughter, only managing the occasional babble or squeal induced ‘Eds!’.

Finally those skilled guitarist fingers choose to take pity on him, allowing Steve to actually get a word in.

“Nohot… fair.” He breathes out through residual giggles. It doesn’t matter that the tickling has since ceased. Ghost sensations still tease and taunt across his sensitive skin, mentally swearing that he could still feel those fingertips dancing across his torso.

Eddie’s endearment drips like honey, dark eyes warming at the sight of his friend still struggling to get his act together. “No? I think that was totally fair. Plus, I slaved over those cookies, Stevie Boy. Heart and soul. Body and mind. Don’t I deserve a little prize?” His lips curl into a wicked grin, knowing damn well that his next words would fluster more than soothe. “Perhaps shaped in the form of those cute ass giggles of yours?”

Just as expected, heat begins to crawl up the back of Steve’s neck at the sentiment, though the rosy hue on his face from earlier makes it easy to mask the blush currently spreading. As if proving Eddie’s point further, playful pokes return to Steve’s torso, randomly nudging little spots until he’s back to bubbly uncontrollable giggles.

Using the last bit of strength, he reaches out to give Eddie’s side a squeeze, earning matching breathy laughter in return.

The fight grows less clear after that. Stray pokes and occasional squeezes keep both boys giddy, lost in their own little bubble.

For as long as he could remember, Steve Harrington had been a fixer. Even when the most misguided, he tried to right his own wrongs as well as everyone else’s around him. What began in early childhood as a terribly sad attempt of bringing his parents together had warped into a personality trait, a role he constantly forced himself to play out of fear of feeling useless.

But now the pressure of planning a perfect event for the kids is long forgotten and somehow he knows it’ll all work out. Because Eddie’s laughter is interlaced with his, their cheeks rosy and breath staggered. Suddenly, that familiar ache in his chest doesn’t feel quite as heavy as before and Steve realizes while doing absolutely nothing important at all, that he doesn't feel useless. He realizes that maybe…

“Hoholy Shit, Harrington. Forget weed. I think those damn giggles of yours got me high.”

Maybe this feeling between them was something else entirely.

Sometimes, Eddie Munson laughs and Steve wonders if love has always sounded like this.

[hotwritergf]

"Oh my fucking god Harrington, make that noise again!"

Eddie had just found out a very interesting quirk about his boyfriend, you'd think after a year of dating he couldn't have hidden something like this but here they were. Wrestling on the Harrington's living room floor, laughing alongside each other because Eddie had discovered Steve's weak spot.

All he did was wiggle his fingers under his arms when his boyfriend was reaching for something from the top shelf that he was just a little to short to grasp. "Scream for me again, come on! I don't wanna have to tickle you worse."

Eddie teased with a smirk. His boyfriend curling up into a ball to protect himself from Eddie's wandering hands, he wouldn't complain. Obviously not.

Any physical affection from Eddie Munson, his long term crush made boyfriend was a god sent gift.

[rosiesramblings]

Steve Is Forcibly Adopted

Fandom: Stranger Things

WC: 1.5k

A/N: It's been a minute! I swear I meant to finish this like a month ago. I hope you enjoy this fic of Steve and his chosen family.

It was in the early hours of July 5th, 1985, when Hopper and El adopted Steve. It would be a while before Steve himself recognized this, but that night at the hospital was the beginning of their cobbled-together family.

The exhaustion had taken residence in Hopper’s bones, and with the hefty dose of non-opioid pain meds in his system, the only thing he wanted was to go home and sleep. Preferably on the floor of El’s room, but he would settle for the couch outside her door if she wanted space. El had been given stitches and a clean bill of health by Owens’ people, and had quietly accepted the crutches Hopper pushed into her arms. 

“Ready to head home?” Hop asked as El pulled herself to her feet and awkwardly positioned the crutches under her arms. Instead of answering, she started toward the door.

The two of them made it slowly down the endless hallway, quiet except for the beeping machines behind other closed doors. Until -

“I’m sorry, Mr. Harrington, but we can’t release you until you have someone who can watch you for the next few days,” an apologetic nurse could be heard from behind a curtain.

“It’s Steve. And I promise I’ll be fine, and I’ll come back if anything weird starts to happen, just - please, let me leave,” Steve Harrington sounded like he was half delirious, half on the verge of tears.

“Steve, you were injected with an unknown substance, we really can’t let you leave on your own,” the nurse explained.

Hopper had heard enough. One glance at El’s wide pleading eyes was all he needed before he twitched the curtain aside with a gruff, “We’ll take him.”

Steve and the nurse both jumped, and Jesus, it looks like the kid’s been through the wringer. Bruises littered his face, a patch of gauze was taped over one eye, and Hopper could tell the kid was dealing with some broken ribs by the way his arm cradled his torso.

Steve blinked in confusion as the nurse brightened. “Chief Hopper! Of course, I’ll get his discharge paperwork. Shouldn’t take two minutes.”

XXXXXXXXX

In the hospital parking lot, Steve hung back when El and Hopper clambered into Hop’s car. He kept his eyes on the ground, scuffing the toe of one sneaker. “Thanks for breaking me out, Chief. I’ll, uh, get out of your hair.”

Hop didn’t even have to look to see the way El’s eyes narrowed. She opened her mouth, but Hop beat her to it. “Kid, I wasn’t lying about keeping an eye on you. The nurse said you need to be watched, so we’ll watch you. Got it?”

A blush crept up on Steve’s face. “Oh, I couldn’t impose, really, and I’m sure you want to spend some time with Supergirl here, and -”

“Steve,” El’s quiet plea stopped him in his tracks. “We want you. To come home with us. Please.” The passenger side door swung open. El wiped a trickle of blood from her nose.

“Get in the damn car, kid,” Hop said gruffly. 

Steve got in the damn car.

XXXXXXXXX

What was supposed to be a week of Hop-and-El-supervision melted into two weeks of all-three-of-them-healing-and-processing, which became a month of Steve-helping-El-with-schoolwork-while-Hop-fixed-up-the-cabin, until one day Hopper climbed up the cabin steps after work, listening to the faint sounds of his kids making dinner together, and he was suddenly struck by how right it all felt.

The three had dinner together, and El turned on her favorite soap while Hop took care of the dishes. Steve took a quick shower, and then padded into the living room in his pajamas. He collapsed on the couch next to El, making her bounce in her seat.

“Do we have to watch this boring show, Ellie? Why can’t we put on a baseball game or something?” He whined playfully.

“Because,” El said primly, “My show is good. Baseball is just men chasing after a ball and trying to get it in a hoop.”

Steve flopped over on top of El. “Ellie, that’s basketball, not baseball. Come on, please?” He turned his face up to give her puppy eyes.

“Get off! You are heavy!” Ell laughed, shoving at Steve’s shoulders.

“Please please please please please?” Steve asked, punctuating each please with a poke to El’s side. 

El collapsed to the side with a bright giggle, shaking her head rapidly back and forth, making her curls bounce. Never one to be outdone, she poked Steve back. “No no no no no no! We are watching my show!”

Hopper dried the last dish and wandered into the living room, settling into the armchair and ready to make sure his kids didn’t kill each other.

Steve just grinned at El, shrugging nonchalantly. “Sorry, Ellie, not ticklish.”

“What is ‘ticklish’?”

“When I poked you and you laughed just now? That’s because your tummy is ticklish,” Steve explained, poking El again.

She grinned, then pushed his hand away with a pout. “But you are not? Ticklish?”

“Nope,” Steve said. Hopper watched as he bit down on the left side of his bottom lip. Hop snorted. Steve couldn’t lie to anybody, except maybe El.

Both of their heads whipped around to look at Hopper. Steve looked indignant. “What? I’m not!” he protested, still biting down on the corner of his lip.

“You can’t lie for shit kid,” Hop chuckled. He turned to El, patiently explaining, “Sometimes, a person can hold back their laughter when tickled in certain places. That just means you have to find the place where they can’t help but giggle.”

El looked like Christmas came early, while Steve’s face turned bright red. El turned to Steve, “Where? Where where where?” Poking at his ribs and neck, where Hop knew El herself was ticklish.

Steve’s eyes widened, before he gently pushed her hands away. “Sorry Ellie. Some people are like that, yeah, but some people just aren’t ticklish.”

“Some people, maybe, but not you,” Hop snickered as Steve shot a glare his way.

“Hop doesn’t know what he’s talking about!” Steve protested loudly, trying to catch El’s hands as they started poking with renewed vigor.

“Oh no?” Hop asked. He surveyed Steve with a critical eye. “El, try behind his knees.”

“Hop!” Steve yelped incredulously, before promptly launching himself off the couch with a shriek as El did just that.

Hop chuckled to himself as Steve immediately shot to his feet, making a mad dash for his room. Unfortunately for him, Hopper had the reflexes of a parent, and shot his arm out to snag Steve around the waist before hauling him into his lap.

“Wait wait wait, Hop don’t, please, please I’ll die, just wahahahahait!” Steve collapsed into bubbly laughter as Hop’s fingers fluttered behind his knee, kicking out at nothing.

El let out a delighted gasp. “You lied! Friends don’t lie!” And she ran over to shove her fingers behind Steve’s other knee.

Steve’s laughter doubled as he visibly tried to hold back his kicks so as not to hurt El. “Nohohohohoo! Plehehease, I’m sohohohorry!

“Now that we've got him giggling,” Hopper explained over Steve’s protests, “He probably can’t hold back when we do this.” Hop dug into Steve’s tummy and raked his fingernails in towards Steve’s belly button, prompting an actual scream from Steve before he started cackling.

El happily flapped her hands at Steve’s reactions as she moved up to spider her fingers along his neck and collar bones. Steve scrunched up, trying to block El’s fingers but only succeeding in trapping them against his sensitive skin.

Steve had apparently lost the ability to form words, and when Hop saw the first tears trickle down from the corners of his eyes, he slowed his hands. “Okay, okay El. He’s had enough,” Hop said, using his thumb to wipe away Steve’s tears of mirth. El retracted her hands and resumed flapping happily, climbing onto the arm of the chair that wasn’t occupied by Steve.

Hop tried rubbing a soothing hand up and down Steve’s back, but he arched away with a giggle. “Jesus, kid, is there anywhere you aren’t ticklish?” Hop asked. Steve stuck his bottom lip out in a pout, but wordlessly moved Hopper’s hand to his hair. Hop took the hint and started scritching lightly at Steve’s scalp. Steve melted into Hopper with a sigh. El, feeling left out, dragged Hopper’s other hand to her own head, where he obligingly gave her the same treatment. 

Hopper pressed kisses to the crowns of both of their heads and tried to chisel the moment into his memories. His thoughts strayed to Sarah, as they often did these days. He hoped she was proud of him. As his other kids’ breaths evened out, he let himself think of her smile. Wherever she was, Hopper hoped she knew he missed her. 

He liked to think she had a hand in El and Steve coming into his life.

[amazingmsme]

Showing the Ropes

AN: Still trying to catch up😭 I’m just like that bitch with his rock fr. Finish one fic post it, start the next one & it’s already the next day. Post THAT fic & you’re still the same amount behind because that’s how the passage of time works. Through gritted teeth: I love being a writer. In all honesty tho, I love tickletober it’s just a very shit time in my life & this is how I cope. This fic came out way better than I expected, just cause I’m not real big on writing for Mike. Idk what it is about him, but I always feel iffy about his characterization. But this is just a really cute & silly moment between him, El & Nancy.

Mike didn't even know how long they'd been going at it, but he knew one thing for sure: he was going to die. They were going to kill him right then and there.

Nancy was walking through the living room while they were watching a movie and she noticed the way El poked and scribbled lazily at his sides and tummy, eliciting the occasional choked off giggle.

"I can give you some pointers if you want," she had offered out of the blue, catching the both of them extremely off guard. Mike was rightfully mortified while El cocked her head like a curious puppy.

"Pointers?" she questioned, unsure what the older teen could mean. Nancy rolled her eyes fondly and made her way to the couch.

"No, go away! Don't you have a paper to write?" he snarked. El elbowed him in the ribs.

"Mike, don't be rude," she softly scolded. Nancy smirked.

"He's just cranky 'cause he knows what's coming," she teased. Mike glared at her, long and hard. They stared at each other, locked in a stalemate. In the end, it was Mike who broke it off, trying to make a run for it. She easily caught him by the back of his shirt, yanking him back, "God, you're so predictable."

"Nancy, let go! I'm serious!"

"That's the problem, isn't it? He's always so serious," she joked, shooting a wink towards El as she wrestled her brother back on the couch. She managed to pin him underneath her, Mike's constant struggling making it a little difficult for her. He wasn't as small as he used to be, now he was all gangly limbs and much taller.

"Wanna help?" Nancy asked, and El's face lit up.

"I'd love to!"

"Nohoho El don't! She's evil!" he protested, a few nervous giggles slipping past his lips.

"She's nice to me," she reasoned as she helped hold Mike's arms above his head. Nancy gave her a thumbs up before turning "serious."

"Any time you need to keep him in check, just do this," she said matter of factly. El nodded, listening intently. Mike shook his head, knowing where she was going with this.

"Nancy, don't! Whatever it is I did I'm sorry!" he cried, sure she was doing this as some kind of revenge for something he must've done. That's how it usually went, anyway. Nancy laughed in amusement.

"See? We haven't even touched him and he's already begging," she teased and El giggled along, making him blush. "But you didn't do anything- this time. Just thought El could use a leg up in your tickle fights." The comment caused a faint dusting of pink to grace El's cheeks as well.

"She does fine! Don't you El?" he asked, hoping for his girlfriend to be on his side. She just smiled at him and shrugged.

"I kinda wanna see where she's going with this. And just like that, his fate was sealed.

Nancy rolled up his shirt, anticipatory giggled building up in his chest. She made a show of drawing in a deep breath before bending down to blow a raspberry on his bare belly. Mike was immediately launched into a bout of hysterics. Unable to protect himself, he chose instead to hide his face behind his outstretched arm.

Nancy blew a few more raspberries, shaking her head and growling playfully. Mike screeched, head tossed back as loud, carefree laughter burst free from his throat. He tried to plead for mercy, but every attempt at speech was lost to an incoherent giggling babble.

Nancy pulled away to give him a breather, though it didn't last nearly as long as Mike had hoped.

"Your turn!" Nancy's chipper voice sent a strong sense of dread through his entire body. El's grin overtook her features as she swapped places with Nancy. Her eyes were alight with mischief, scanning her prey carefully.

"So I take a deep breath and just... blow?" El asked. Nancy nodded in encouragement.

"Yeah, but you need to do it directly on the skin. Like this," Nancy demonstrated again, scooping her little brother in her arms unexpectedly and blew a raspberry on his neck, making him scream much too close to her ears, but that was her own doing.

El giggled, taking the advice to heart and putting it to good use.

Mike wasn't sure how he was still alive, in all honesty.