#acasualcrossfade writes

[acasualcrossfade]

Balcony Kisses

Written for @steddielovemonth Day 26

Rating: T | Cw: mention of underage drug use | Words: 1240

Tags: established relationship, established Steddie, Steddie dads, making out

Prompt: Love is a fire that never goes out. @sidekick-hero

Steve and Eddie share a moment during their daughter’s graduation party.

--

Steve leaned against the railing of the master bedroom balcony, letting out a slow exhale. The balcony rails were wrapped in lights, still up from when Eddie decorated for Christmas, but their glow added a nice touch for their daughter’s graduation party. 

The party still continued in the backyard below and Steve could still hear the sizzling sounds of Hopper’s famous burgers on the grill, the faraway laughter of teenage kids and their friends, and the pulsing beat of some party music Dustin had chosen. 

The balcony was quieter than the party itself, and from here, Steve could hear the droning buzz of cicadas as he took in the blue-purple color of the summer evening sky. 

In the glow of the fairy lights that hung across the backyard, Steve spied their daughter, Sienna, at a table with her friends. Sienna turned her wrist every now and then, showing off her charm bracelet, sure to point out her newest charm, a gift from both him and Eddie. It was tradition to give her a new charm for each milestone: graduating middle school, first theater performance, first band performance, and most recently, her first published work. Her piece on the importance of music as a way to capture time and memories won the state essay contest earlier that year, and it was hard to imagine that she would be off to the University of Chicago next week. She’d been invited to their summer writing program before the semester started. 

It was exciting, but it meant Sienna left in a week instead of in a few months. Anxiety hummed between Steve’s ribs at the thought of Sienna on her own. The air was thick with the bittersweet taste that came with moving on.

Summer was just beginning, and yet, everything was ending.

“Thought I’d find you up here.”

Steve turned at the sound of Eddie’s voice as the man stepped out onto the balcony. Eddie looked as good as always, even with his long hair that he’d fussed over that morning now thrown in a messy bun, and his suit jacket abandoned hours ago for a UChicago sweatshirt. Steve spotted the tell-tale taquito grease stain on his sleeve.

“Thought you said you’d leave the taquitos for the guests,” Steve chuckled, loving the way Eddie’s arms laced to embrace him from behind.  

“Couldn’t resist,” Eddie murmured, kissing Steve’s neck softly. “They’re almost as delicious as you are.”

“And here’s when I’d say something about your cholesterol and–”

Eddie gave him a playful squeeze, cutting Steve’s sentence off with a surprised gasp. 

“I’ve been in the mood to indulge tonight. Guilty as charged. But I did take my medicine this morning,” he assured.

“Guess I’ll let you off with a warning,” Steve replied. He turned to face Eddie, leaning against his husband’s chest as Eddie’s arms wrapped around him. Steve couldn’t help but snuggle in closer.

“So, is the party better from up here?”

Eddie’s voice came at Steve’s ear, as Eddie’s hands rubbed the back of Steve’s neck. Instantly, Steve’s shoulders dropped, and Steve hummed in relief.

“Just needed some air.”

“Mm, and what else, sunshine?”

Steve almost hated the way Eddie could read him like a book. Still, the words stuck in his throat as he spoke. “Sienna. She’s leaving us, Eds. We get her for another week, but then…she’s gone.”

Eddie stroked Steve’s cheek, nodding along. “I know. I can’t believe it, either. Feels like yesterday when she was nervous for her first day of school.”

Steve hugged Eddie close as he continued to watch the party downstairs. His eyes drifted across the yard to Max and Nancy chatting excitedly to Erica, no doubt about their publishing company, who’s third office would open in Brooklyn next week. They already had locations in Chicago and Seattle, and Brooklyn was their biggest move yet.

“Everyone’s moving on. What are we even going to do with her out of the house?”

Eddie nibbled Steve’s ear in reply, earning another hum from Steve. “I can think of a few things, starting with you bent over this—”

It was Steve’s turn to surprise Eddie with a playful squeeze. Eddie’s sentence dissolved into laughter as leaned in and connected their lips, taking Steve in slowly with intention.

Steve’s mind went hazy. Eddie tasted like burgers and beer, and everything home and Steve responded by pulling Eddie’s hips impossibly closer, closing every centimeter of space between them. He felt a smile tug at his lips as Eddie’s hand moved down his neck and back to curl around the curve of his ass to give it a squeeze.

Steve let out a breathy moan; even after twenty-five years together, that move still made Steve’s entire body tingle.

“Of course they’ll be plenty of that,” Steve whispered against Eddie’s lips. “Might have to get a head start tonight. Clearly, we’ve got a lot to cover.” 

Steve moved his hand from Eddie’s hip to Eddie’s ass, glad when Eddie’s moan heated his lips. 

Steve had many plans for what he wanted next, starting with pushing Eddie back into their bedroom, but the moment was cut short with a Hey! shouted from the backyard.

“We can still see you up there, lovebirds,” Robin crowed from the backyard in her best sing-song voice. 

Steve broke apart instantly as he felt his ears heat, but Eddie, as always, took it in stride and flipped her the bird as he laughed and pulled Steve in for another deep kiss.

Eddie’s lips made him dizzy and this time was no different. The world went fuzzy in the best way, and Steve threw his arms around Eddie’s neck to tangle in his hair.

Ripples of chuckles, whoops, and whistles came from the backyard, and when they broke apart again, Steve caught Sienna laughing as she playfully gave them both a thumbs down.

“I think we’re embarrassing our daughter,” Steve chuckled. 

“Well that just means we’re good dads,” Eddie winked. 

The party picked back up as attention shifted back to food and socializing. Steve leaned against the railing, glad to get more time with Eddie.

“You think….we did okay?” Steve asked, turning to glance again at Sienna. She’d moved across the yard to join Nancy, Max, and Robin. “She’ll be okay, right?”

Eddie’s arms wrapped around him again, carrying the same safety and love as always. “She’ll be okay,” Eddie assured, pecking a kiss on Steve’s cheek. “Besides, she’s been doing her own laundry for years, so at least we’ll know she’ll be in clean clothes.”

“I guess that’s a relief.” 

“And she knows to call us about anything, too. And she has,” Eddie reminded. “Remember when she was at that awful 70s party and everyone was trying weed?”

“Oh god, yes.”

Their daughter hadn’t partook, but called them instead to have them pick her up because everyone was freaking out and acting weird. 

Eddie was right; Sienna knew to call them for anything. 

Steve leaned into the familiar love and safety of Eddie’s arms. “I’m gunna miss her so much.” 

“We both are,” Eddie hummed. “But we still have a week. We’ll make the most of it.”

Steve nodded in agreement, melting into Eddie’s touch as the man pressed gentle kisses into his neck. 

Although the taste of everything ending was still tangible in the summer air, Steve felt the beginning curl of desire in his abdomen as Eddie kissed him, knowing that some things never changed. 

#steddie #steddielovemonth #steddielovemonth day 26 #steddie fic #steve harrington #eddie munson #established steddie #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously_halo writes

[sidekick-hero]

Writing Patterns

I was tagged by some amazing moots and writers: @steddieas-shegoes, @shares-a-vest, @eriquin, @hbyrde36, @klausinamarink, @frankenstein-ate-my-left-shoe, @runninriot and @thefreakandthehair Thank you for the tag and even more so for sharing your gift and providing me so much delicious food 💜💜💜

Rules: List the first line of your last 10 (posted) fics and see if there’s a pattern!

Given that the last 29 fics I wrote were all for @steddielovemonth I decided to pick my favorite 5 of these and the 5 fics I posted before that.

safe & sound Steve’s life was completely turned upside down (theoretically he sees the humor in this, but in practice the trauma trumps the pun) six months and six days ago when he came face-to-face with a honest-to-God inter-dimensional monster and barely survived to not tell the tale thanks to an airtight and frankly scary NDA.

that ultra-kind of love (you never walk away from) Steve’s hands start to shake as he lifts Eddie’s shirt over his head, and when he fumbles with Eddie’s belt, they shake so badly that he can barely get it unbuckled. Dear Steve Dear Steve, Hi Stevie, Apparently, it’s not good to “bottle up” your feelings.

Butterfly Effect “Mm, where you goin’?”

Safe Haven He runs for his life, his paws hitting the snowy ground with heavy thumps.

Love from the other side "Steve, we've got a major crash on the Interstate. Multiple vehicles involved. You're on triage duty. Patients will be arriving in five minutes,” Robin, the head nurse in the ER, tells him in a calm voice.

Ahoy Sailor! Eddie is used to life not working out the way he wants it to. In fact, he's come to expect it to.

Mine Steve never really cared about how he treated his possessions.

So Much (For) Stardust Eddie's living his dream, literally.

Hole-In-The-Wall It's all Dustin's fault.

I tend to write more Steve POV but it has gotten better. When I first started to write steddie, I felt like I couldn't write Eddie at all. Now, I feel myself drawn to his POV more and more often. Other than that, I rarely start with dialogue?

I feel like most of you did this but tagging a few beloved friends and moots I think haven't done this yet (no pressure, you know the drill): @starryeyedjanai, @henderdads, @puppy-steve, @acasualcrossfade, @steddielations, @just-my-latest-hyperfixation and @steveseddie

#steddie #steddie fanfiction #my writing #tag game

[acasualcrossfade]

toes in, ankles deep

Written for STWG daily prompt: new beginnings

(happy belated birthday to @pearynice and @stevesbipanic since this prompt fell on their birthdays!)

Rating: T | CW: mentions of past drowning, mild cursing | Words: 1078

Steve is determined to swim with Eddie in Lake Michigan.

--

Steve looked out on the serene waves of Lake Michigan, the familiar panic curling around his lungs at the thought of the open water. The sun was overhead and shining bright, and yet he shivered. Steve still had nightmares about the way that thing gripped his leg, dragging him down, down, down under the water and far from the surface.

The memory always brought a roll of shame in its wake, whispering that he should be over this, that it’d been years since nearly drowning in Lover’s Lake, and that there were no monsters hiding in the depths of Lake Michigan. 

“Are you sure about this?” Eddie asked, stepping over their picnic to stand beside Steve. “We can walk the beach for a bit before heading back to the car.”

Steve gave Eddie an assured look. “I want to do this. I miss swimming with you.”

Moving to Chicago was their new beginning, and for Steve, this lake was part of their effort forward together. 

Their first time to the lake, Steve only made it toes in and ankles deep before retreating to shore. The third time he made it to his shins, and by the fifth, he made it to his chest and dove under the water.

Eddie always wrapped Steve in a soft beach towel afterwards. He pressed kisses and love into Steve’s goosebumpy skin, making sure Steve knew how brave he was, and how proud he felt. 

But even though Steve swam many times before, the fear still bubbled up in his chest. 

“I’m right here, okay? Won’t let anything happen,” Eddie reminded him.

Steve swallowed and adjusted his grip on Eddie’s hand.

Lake Michigan was rippling glass against the midday sun and Steve shivered as he stepped into the cold water. He watched the water rush over his bare feet before retreating, pulling pebbles of sand from in between his toes. Steve sucked in a breath, remembering how tightly that thing wrapped around his ankle, and how powerless he felt as the surface disappeared above him. 

Steve pushed away the thought of how easily he could be pulled in again, even in shallow water. He turned his gaze to watch a group of teens take a running start into the water, stepping and splashing loudly before they dove under and resurfaced with splashes and laughter.

Jealousy made Steve’s shame return; he wished it was that easy for him each time.

“Shh, hey,” Eddie crooned, his voice closer. “It’s okay. We’ve got time. There’s no rush.”

Steve felt the way Eddie’s words softened the harder edges of his panic. It was true, he could take his time. And he knew that Eddie would stand in shallow water as long as he needed.  

Steve let out a groan of annoyance. “It just…shouldn’t feel this hard. It’s been like, four years, Eds. Now it’s just getting pathetic.”

“Stevie, you’re so far from pathetic. And the fact you’re determined to swim again despite being afraid is impressive as fuck.” Eddie nodded over to the group of teens who’d now moved on to a handstand contest. “They have no idea there could be monsters in this world. What I wouldn’t give for that ignorant bliss sometimes.” 

He gave Steve’s hand a squeeze as he stood on his tippy toes to press a kiss to Steve’s cheek. “I’m right here,” Eddie softly reminded him. “We only go as far as you want to.”

“Maybe you could, um, go first?” 

“That can be arranged,” Eddie guided, taking Steve’s other hand with ease and turned so he faced Steve instead of the lake.

Steve looked down at both their feet, seeing that Eddie already stood in ankle-deep water. Determination bit at his fear. He wanted to swim, and he wanted to swim with Eddie.

Eddie took a step backward and Steve took one forward, holding both of Eddie’s hands tightly. He concentrated on their intertwined hands and the sturdiness of Eddie’s steps. Steve’s feet stepped an inch forward and his feet sunk into the sand below. 

Toes in, then, ankle-deep. 

Another step and Steve was up to his calves. 

Then, knees.

Steve never let go of Eddie’s hands and Eddie encouraged him with every step. And when Steve was chest-deep, he tensed. Going under was the second-hardest part, but he’d made it this far. His feet still touched the sandy bottom, and he let out a breath.

Just as something brushed his arm. 

He splashed it away with a gasp and Eddie was right there, just in time to see the tangle of seaweed bobbing away in the water. 

“Just seaweed,” Steve gasped breathlessly, taking a minute to rest his forehead on Eddie’s shoulder. He let out a shaky laugh. Then, he looked ahead to the open water, feeling braver.

“Wanna dive in? Together?” 

“On three,” Eddie nodded. 

Steve squeezed Eddie’s hand as they counted down, and on three, Steve pushed off the sandy bottom and took his last breath before diving under the water.

The cold hit full force and he resurfaced quickly with a gasp. A surprised smile split across his face as water poured from his soaked hair. He pushed it off his forehead and couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled out of him as Eddie resurfaced next to him. Eddie’s dark eyes looked bigger with his hair plastered to his forehead and cheeks.

“We’re swimming,” Steve laughed. 

“We’re swimming,” Eddie echoed. “You did it.”

Steve’s chest expanded as his fear dissipated, letting Eddie pull him closer. 

“And do you have any idea how amazing you are?”

“At this?” He shook his head. “Took me a good ten minutes to make it in.”

“But you made it in.” He nudged Steve. “Look at you, conquering fears and making it look easy.” Eddie’s own smile curled into something more, and he leaned into Steve in search of his lips. 

“You always make it easier,” Steve confessed before Eddie’s lips, kissing away the chill of the lake water. Eddie tasted like everything safe, everything encouraging, and Steve couldn't help himself as his hands found their way into Eddie’s curls.

Eddie pulled him closer and Steve’s legs wrapped around Eddie’s waist, smiling at the way the man could easily hold him up underwater. He tightened his legs around Eddie’s waist as he returned his lips to Eddie’s mouth.

And wrapped in Eddie with the heat of the sun on his back, in the open water of Lake Michigan, Steve was at peace. 

#stwgdailyprompt #new beginnings #steddie #steddie fic #steve harrington #eddie munson #stwg #steddie in chicago #steddie fluff #established steddie #steddie angst #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes

[acasualcrossfade]

Pillows on the Floor

Sicktember Day 25:  Confused/Disoriented

Stranger Things: Steve Harrington/ Eddie Munson

Words: 500 | Rating: M | CW: mild cursing, mentions of violent nightmares, effects of violent nightmares, mentions of blood and physical harm

@sicktember

Summary: Steve is wary of sleeping next to Eddie again after Steve’s nightmare hurts the both of them.

Find me on Ao3!

--

Eddie was already in bed when Steve exited the bathroom. In the soft lamp light of the bedroom, Steve could make out the healing scratches criss-crossed over Eddie’s arms. 

“You comin’ to bed?” Eddie asked. His brown eyes were filled with concern. 

“Not tonight.”

Eddie’s shoulders sagged. “Can you at least talk to me?”

Steve paused. He’d given Eddie the silent treatment for the past few days; all he could see when he looked at Eddie was how he’d hurt him. It’d been three nights of Steve sleeping downstairs.

Steve remembered the entire ordeal. He remembered the dream and how he’d been tied down, the buzzing of a bone saw in his ears. He remembered snapping awake screaming hoarsely, then arms around him, holding him. Steve was confined again, trapped again, and he thrashed to get away, to escape. Steve clawed at what held him, fighting against Eddie’s arms.

It wasn’t until Steve fell against the cold hardwood gasping in deep breaths that he heard Eddie’s pained moans from the bed. 

It wasn’t until Eddie clicked on the bedside lamp that Steve saw what he’d done.

“Steve?”

Eddie’s voice pulled Steve from the memory.

“It’s okay, they’re healing,” Eddie’s voice said gently.

“S’not that.” Steve’s voice was low, but he carefully sat on the edge of the bed next to Eddie. 

“Then what is it?”

Steve kept his gaze on the floor. “I freaked out, Eddie. I freaked and I hurt you.”

“I was the one that grabbed you,” Eddie admitted. “Stupid move, but I didn’t want you to fall head first off the bed. Wasn’t thinking.”

“You were trying to help, and I hurt you instead.”

Eddie reached his hand across the blanket, but paused halfway to Steve’s.

Steve glanced at Eddie’s hand and then slowly closed the distance between them as he poked Eddie’s hand with his own. 

They clasped their hands together, fingers intertwining and winding together. For a moment, Steve relished in Eddie’s presence.

Then, Steve spoke the words that kept fear cemented in his heart.

“It could be worse next time.” 

Eddie’s hand squeezed his hand in response and traced Steve’s knuckles gently. “We saw some dark shit over there. You more than me,” Eddie said. “And next time, maybe there’ll be pillows on the floor instead.”

Steve looked up suddenly in surprised confusion.  “Pillows on the floor?” “Yeah, if you’re going to be falling out of bed, you’ll at least land on something soft.”

Steve blinked. He’d never thought of that. “Like the couch cushions?” 

 “Actually, that would work. Want to try it?”

Steve nodded and so it was set up. As Steve carried a cushion and set it by the bed, he felt a weight shift and lift from him. 

He’d have something to catch him. 

The thought brought comfort, and it was easier to crawl into bed next to Eddie. It was easier to nudge into Eddie’s embrace.

In Eddie’s arms, Steve found sleep easier than he had in a long time.

#sicktember 2023 #sicktember day 25 #confused/disoriented #steddie #steddie fic #steddie ficlet #hurt/comfort #steve harrington #eddie munson #hurt steve harrington #hurt eddie munson #acasualcrossfade writes #thuderously halo writes

[acasualcrossfade]

The Law of Contact

Rating: T | Cw: none | Words: 769

Tags: established relationship, established Steddie, busy schedules, cuddles

Prompt: Love is letting yourself be loved (@quinns-shadowy-arts)

Written for @steddielovemonth Day 15

--

Steve set his keys in the small clay bowl Eddie had made for their second anniversary, smiling slightly at its misshapen shape. It wasn’t a bowl to eat out of, but it was perfect to hold both sets of each of their keys. Steve’s keys clattered against Eddie’s, a sign that the man was home.  It was a good thing, too, since Steve desperately yearned for Eddie’s embrace.

Eddie was usually surrounded by law exam study notes and his days were packed with practice exams and study sessions, and Steve knew it’d been too long since they’d just gotten time together. It didn’t help that Steve’s own schedule was taken up with various meetings with the school and parents to take on the assistant principal role.

With their packed schedules, it meant that there was a lot less time for cuddles than Steve would have liked. It was strange to miss someone you lived with, and as Steve slipped off his shoes at the door, he felt a renewed sense of determination to get his fill of cuddles from Eddie. 

Despite Eddie being home, the house was quieter than expected. Eddie usually studied in the day and took the evenings for music and Steve was used to walking into the house, welcomed by the strums of Eddie’s guitar. 

But as Steve ventured into the living room, he got his answer to the question of the quiet house. Eddie lay asleep  on the floor, surrounded by various law books and papers. One arm was thrown over his eyes, and the other stretched across a few loose leaf papers. An abandoned pen lay inches away from his fingers, and Steve guessed Eddie fell asleep with it in his hand. 

The man snored softly, the rise of Eddie’s breath making his shirt pull up to reveal a slip of Eddie’s hip, the exact place Steve loved to press his lips. Desire stirred in Steve’s abdomen, but at the sound of Eddie’s deep breathing, Steve’s desire melted into something softer. 

Clearly, it’d been a long day for both of them. 

Steve knelt down and placed his hand on Eddie’s shoulder, the only way to wake Eddie as gently as possible. 

At Steve’s touch, Eddie stirred and woke up slowly, blinking up at Steve with sleepy eyes. “Mm, shit,” Eddie cursed as he rubbed his eyes before sitting up. “Didn’t mean to fall asleep.” He sniffed and leaned into Steve as he stifled a yawn. “When’d you get home?”

“Just now,” Steve whispered as he pressed his lips against the crown of Eddie’s head. “Another meeting ran late and I had to get a few emails out before tomorrow morning.”

Eddie slowly wrapped his arms around Steve, taking his time to run his hands over Steve’s back and shoulders. “You’re working hard.”

“I’m trying,” Steve responded. “I hate being away from you all day.” 

Steve missed the days when he was at the Video Store and could come home for lunch and have random days of the week off to hang around with Eddie. Even with them both trying for something new, Steve still wished for those earlier days.

Eddie hummed in agreement. “But I love it when you come home. S’my favorite part of the day. And much better than reading about contract law.” 

Steve’s heart swelled at Eddie’s words and he hugged the man tighter as he glanced at Eddie’s various papers and notes. “Mm, contract law looks complicated.”

“I’d rather be studying the law of contact with you,” Eddie nudged, burrowing himself deeper into Steve’s embrace. 

Steve’s mind played around with Eddie’s words. “Law of contact? Like, cuddles?”

Eddie gave him a squeeze. “And you say you could never study law,” he chuckled. 

“Well, with a law like that, I don’t see why I’m not,” Steve laughed. “But cuddling with you is all I”ve wanted to do all day.” He stroked the man’s inky black curls. “Upstairs?”

Eddie nodded and Steve carefully nudged Eddie off his shoulder and helped Eddie stand. But before he headed upstairs, Eddie pulled Steve closer for a tight embrace. 

“Mm, are we starting now?” Steve mumbled, letting himself press into Eddie.

“Mmhmm, and because I know you’ve had a long day, too.” 

Steve murmured as Eddie’s hands massaged his shoulders and down his back, physically untangling Steve from the stress of his day. With each touch, Steve decompressed more and more against Eddie until he was practically sagged against the man. 

When Eddie shifted to guide him towards the stairs, Steve took Eddies’ hand in his own, allowing himself to be led upstairs for more. 

#steddie #steddielovemonth #whatislovedailyprompts #steve harrington #eddie munson #steddie fic #acasualcrossfade writes

[acasualcrossfade]

Writing Patterns

First tag game! I was tagged by the wonderful @sidekick-hero! 

Rules: list the first lines of your last 10 (posted) fics and see if there’s a pattern!

I do a lot of writing challenges so I picked my favorites and included a few from my 500 word Steddie fic collection for Sicktember**.

:)

Balcony Kisses-- Steve leaned against the railing of the master bedroom balcony, letting out a slow exhale. 

Guitar Picks and Chocolate Chips-- Steve pulled to the last red light on the way home and glanced at Eddie in the passenger seat.

Pillows on the Floor**-- Eddie was already in bed when Steve exited the bathroom.

Angel Baby Sweetheart Sunshine**-- Steve loved the way Eddie used pet names and was surprised at how many there were. 

Ice Cream for Breakfast-- Steve stood in the doorway of their daughter’s playroom as he watched Eddie twirl dramatically. 

Home a Day Early-- The sun was just beginning to set as Steve pulled the car up to the driveway.

It’s on the House-- “Large iced coffee and a chocolate chip loaf, warmed for Megan!” Steve called, holding up the bagged dessert as he slid the freshly made coffee forward. 

Seeing Stars-- Steve’s ears roared as he stepped down from the lifeguard stand. 

Rescue Mission-- Steve glanced outside thinking about Eddie and frowning slightly at the falling snow.

Crash Landing -- Steve snapped awake beside Eddie and grimaced, swallowing thickly.

My Patterns:

Definitely love writing hurt/comfort and fluff and tend to write from Steve’s POV. Cool to see all the ways I've written about Steddie :)

Gently tagging @pearynice, @imfinereallyy, @cranberrymoons, and @stevesbipanic for this :)

#steddie #steddie fics #eddie x steve #fanfiction writer #steve harrington #eddie munson #fanfic #steddie dads #steddie fic #stranger things fanfic #my writing #acasualcrossfade writes

[acasualcrossfade]

The Waiting (Room)

written for ‘Cake’ wc: 311 | rated: M | cw: mentions of graphic violence, blood, and injuries. small mention of self-harm

@steddiemicrofic​

Divider art by: @saradika

​Steve waits in the hospital waiting room for news about Eddie.

Eddie’s blood is caked under his nails. 

Worse, someone passes by the waiting room with a cake that’s decorated in blue icing. The sight makes Steve feel sick.  

He forces himself to breathe the stale hospital air, a reminder he’s not in the Upside Down anymore. Still, his breaths feel too close to suffocating and there’s acid in his throat.

Images of Eddie’s bloody curls, carrying Eddie’s limp, mangled body, and the sound of Eddie’s rattling breaths are still etched like cursed hieroglyphs into Steve’s mind. Steve is tempted to tear out his own brain to forcibly erase the memories from his head. 

Is there a surgery for that?

He hunches over. 

There’s still wet blood on his shirt that hasn’t dried. 

He can almost taste its bitter, metallic scent.

Steve feels like he’s lived eight lifetimes in this waiting room. His chest is a knot, his fists are clenched and his nails dig into his palms. He presses them harder, wanting the half-moon shapes to break skin.

This is all too much. 

“Steve, breathe.”

Robin’s voice.

It’s far away but she’s next to him, holding his shoulder and squeezing it hard.

He pulls a breath in. It feels like choking. 

“You looked like you were going to pass out,” Robin worries. “Eddie’s gunna be okay.”

Steve doesn’t say anything, doesn’t look at her. She doesn’t know what she’s talking about. 

Had they not seen the same body? The same injuries? Heard the same struggling breaths?

He ignores her.

“It’s a miracle he made it here. Best place he can be,” Robin tries.

Steve says nothing. 

It won't be a miracle, not if Eddie’s dead. 

When the doors suddenly open and call for Munson, Wayne rises first, with Steve behind him.

Surgery. Successful. Waiting. Wake up.

He only catches words, but it’s a miracle after all. 

Steve falls to his knees.

#steddiemicrofic #steddemicroficaugust #steddie fic #steddie #divider art by saradika #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes #fic challenge #monthly fic challenge #fic writing

[acasualcrossfade]

Six Sentence Sunday Monday!

rules: post 6 sentences (smutty or not!) of an unfinished work

I was tagged by: @pearynice :heart: Thanks for tagging me!

Currently practicing smut for a fic, so here's a peek at it! A lil over six sentences, but hope you enjoy!

(Minors DNI)

Steve felt Eddie's touch travel up the length of his back, the sensation making him shiver as Eddie entered him ever so slowly from behind. Steve's head swam as he was slowly filled and his hips jutted, aching to take Eddie all at once.

"Impatient, aren't you? Thought you were gunna hold still for me, baby," Eddie crooned.

Steve obediently went still on all fours, his hands gripping the soft sheets as Eddie rewarded him with another slow centimeter. Steve whined, wanting Eddie, needing him inside.

"You're beautiful like this," Eddie mumbled, pressing a hand against Steve's warm hip as he carefully slid the rest of the way into Steve's needy hole.

No pressure tags: @sidekick-hero, @legitcookie, @imfinereallyy and @cranberrymoons :)

#steddie #wip game #steddie smut #acasualcrossfade writes #tag game

[acasualcrossfade]

Beach Boys

written for ‘Pool’ wc: 442 | rated: T | cw: suggestive making out

@steddiemicrofic​

Divider art by: @saradika

​Steve and Eddie enjoy their beach getaway after months away from each other.

The sun made the white sand gleam and Steve felt excitement buzz through him. They made it. The cooler he dragged bumped rhythmically against the planks of the boardwalk, keeping in time with the flip-flop of his sandals. He felt the sweat already pearling on his sunscreened back, but was thankful that the beach was quiet and mostly empty. 

Eddie led the way a few paces ahead. He was shirtless, and wearing black swim trunks and his hair was tied back loosely in a low bun. He easily adjusted his hold on the beach towels and umbrella he held. 

“After all these months, we’re finally here!” Eddie crowed, turning to walk backwards to face Steve. His black cat-eye sunglasses gleamed in the sunshine. 

A smile played at Steve’s lips; there was no denying that his boyfriend looked fabulous. Steve caught up to Eddie and took his hand, pausing to breathe deeply. The air smelled of sea and salt. “We finally did.”

“Three months on tour is too long.”

Steve squeezed Eddie’s hand. “And you’re sure you’re okay? Not too tired?”

“It’s been months. There’s no such thing as being too tired.” Eddie kissed Steve’s knuckles. “We’ve got lots to make up for.”

Steve glowed. “Well, when you put it like that…” He gave his boyfriend a sly smile. “Come here.”

Eddie stepped closer, his eyes two curious milk chocolate pools. 

“Now come all the way here.”

Eddie’s eyes sparkled. “All the way?” 

Steve nodded. 

Eddie put down the umbrella and dropped the beach towels, letting the fabric pool at his feet. He steadied his hands on Steve’s shoulders and hopped up, his legs wrapping around Steve’s waist as Steve caught him easily.

With one hand on Eddie’s ass, Steve used his other to trace Eddie’s jaw before pulling him closer for a kiss. Eddie tasted of everything bright: summer, sunshine, and sugar-sweet salty sweat. Steve felt Eddie’s legs squeeze his waist and Eddie’s hands tangle in his hair. 

“All I want is you,” Steve mumbled against Eddie’s lips. 

“That can be arranged,” Eddie smiled. He loved being held like this. “But we might never make it to the beach.”

 “I guess we did come all this way,” Steve agreed and set Eddie down, stealing a chance to give his ass a final squeeze.

Steve let Eddie lead until he declared they’d reached the perfect spot: close enough to hear the waves but far enough to not get wet. He laid out the towels as Eddie set up the umbrella. And it was perfect, Steve agreed later, with the setting sun on his skin and Eddie on his chest. 

It was all perfect.

#steddiemicroficjuly #steddiemicrofic #steddie #steddie fic #steddie microfic #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes #header art by saradika #fic writing #fic challenge #monthly fic challenge

[acasualcrossfade]

Whumpril Day 1: Panic Attack

Unraveled

White Collar: Peter Burke and Neal Caffrey

For Day 1 of @whumpril

TW: panic attacks

1.5k, includes spoilers for Season 1

“Nice work, Diana. Couldn’t have done it without you,” Peter said, shaking Diana’s hand. 

Diana smiled back easily. “Always a pleasure, boss.” She nodded towards Neal’s departing form. “Looks like he’s got somewhere to be.”

Peter chuckled. “Looks like it.” He pointed towards the back of the building.  “We parked out back so I’ll see you back at the office.”

Diana nodded a farewell in return and Peter jogged a few steps to catch up to his CI. Neal seemed to be walking fast; maybe Diana was right and he had somewhere to be?

“Forget something?” Peter called when he was in earshot of Neal, holding up his anklet. Neal had a knack for remembering birthdays and anniversaries, but he always seemed to conveniently forget about his anklet after solving a case. 

As Peter neared the car, he immediately knew something was wrong. Neal was pacing back and forth, and running his hand through his hair. Peter checked the time; was he late for something?

Peter had barely gotten a few steps closer when Neal began shrugging out of his suit jacket, allowing it to fall to the ground in a heap. Neal huffed a breath before leaning heavily on the car, almost like he was going to be sick.

“Neal? Neal?” Peter’s voice had gotten lower and more serious; he’d never seen Neal like this. In the years Peter chased Neal and caught him, twice, he’d never seen Neal look this…unraveled.

Peter knew it’d been hard for Neal after Kate and the plane, so it was to his utter surprise that Neal had come in after one day off, ready to take on a new case. It seemed like working cases like usual helped, and after Mozzie assured Peter he’d be doing the same to keep Neal on track…it seemed that Neal was functioning. 

But more than once, Peter caught Neal staring off into space and when Neal would turn back, his eyes would look shinier than usual. 

Work kept his CI busy enough, but even with a full schedule and a pile of cases, it was clear that keeping busy could only do so much. 

“Neal?” His voice came out softer. He glanced at his outstretched hand, caught between wanting to offer comfort and unsure if it’d be welcomed. 

Up close, Neal looked sick; his face had paled to a significant white. One hand white-knuckled the metal of the car as he panted out short, shallow breaths. Neal’s eyes were a terrified blue as his other hand clawed at his collar. His fingers struggled at his neck, trying and failing to get a grip on his tie to loosen it. 

The tie slid slack and Neal moved on his collar.  His hands shook as he grasped uselessly against the small buttons as he tried and failed to undo the buttons at his collar. He moved to his shirt next, and he yanked it from where he’d carefully tucked it in that morning.

Neal whimpered between uneven pants, his breaths a syncopated staccato.

“Neal?” Peter knew what his training had taught him, but he pushed it aside, trying to focus. This wasn’t some criminal; this was Neal.

Neal finally managed to undo the buttons, gasping in breaths as he pulled his shirt loose and away from his neck. His grip on the car seemed to be the only thing keeping him upright.

Neal snapped back to the nightmarish memory of the explosion; the air stung his nostrils and the heat made it hard to breathe. 

Neal could feel the scorching heat against his back, the stinging impact of his palms against the concrete from being pushed over, and worst of all, the sick realization seeping through him that Kate, his Kate, had been on that plane…

The very plane he was about to board…

He tightened his grip on the car. “I-I’m alright, just-just need…” Neal breathlessly explained. Words tangled and caught in his throat as his vision dotted.

“Whoa, whoa,” Peter started, catching Neal just as the man’s legs buckled. In his arms, Neal shook terribly and his wild blue eyes were wide and unfocused as he gripped Peter’s forearm. “Head between your knees, head between your knees,” Peter coached, helping Neal lower down and sit on the ground of the parking lot.

Neal obeyed with no fight or crude argument, and its absence made Peter’s heart tighten with worry. Peter placed a hand on Neal’s back. “Now deep breaths,” Peter went on. “Like this.”

Peter took a slow, exaggerated breath and let it slowly, loud enough for Neal to hear. 

Neal trembled and his breath stuttered out of him, but Peter could hear Neal’s wheezy breaths as tried to imitate Peter’s.

Peter continued and slowly, slowly, Neal’s breathing evened and with his hand still against Neal’s back, Peter could tell that his shakes had weakened to shivers. His shirt was damp with sweat. 

The knot of worry that had taken up residence in his chest loosened as Neal’s breathing slowed. Peter let his hand move to Neal’s shoulder. He expected the man to pull back, but to his surprise, Neal leaned into it slightly.

Slowly, Neal lifted his head. Peter could see the pronounced dark circles around Neal’s eyes, and the way his cheekbones seemed to be sharper. His eyes were an electric blue and they darted around with uncertainty. 

“S-sorry,” Neal apologized. “I-I didn’t mean…they start…I don’t…”

Peter had never heard Neal stutter, let alone trip over his words, but he gave Neal’s shoulder a comforting squeeze. “It’s okay,” Peter assured. “You’re okay.”

Neal’s body shivered and he wiped the back of his hand against his eyes quickly. 

Peter was quiet for a moment, giving Neal the time to process and breathe. “You wanna talk about it?”

Neal silently shook his head. “N-not now,” he managed. His voice came out in a broken choke. 

Peter rubbed Neal’s shoulder. He kept his voice quiet and even. “How about we head back to my place, then? Elizabeth would love the excuse to make some tea.”

It took a long moment, but Neal nodded slowly.

“You think you can stand?”

Again, a slow nod.

Peter knelt, guiding Neal’s arm around his shoulder. “You good? Here, up on three,” Peter explained, and when Neal’s grip tightened on him, Peter paused to give Neal a minute.

“S-sorry,” Neal breathed.  “J-just need a minute.” He took another breath and adjusted his grip on Peter. His eyes refused to meet Peter’s.

“Hey, it’s okay,” Peter nearly whispered. There was something about seeing Neal like this that made him want to treat him ever so gently. Slowly, Peter carefully sat on the ground, letting Neal lean against him. “We’re in no rush.”

Neal seemed to relax minutely at that and took another breath before nodding.

A pang of guilt washed over Peter; he shouldn’t have pushed Neal. He knew Neal well enough to know that even as the best con could only hide so much. This was the proof.

By the time Peter got Neal in the car, the man was quiet and looked more worn than ever, as if dealing with any emotion had sapped him of any of his remaining energy. Neal pinched the bridge of his nose, using his thumb and forefinger to rub at his eyes.

Peter sat in the driver’s seat and nodded towards the glove compartment. “There’s some water in there. And a few granola bars, if you need.”

Neal raised his eyebrows at the sight, and leaned over to reach into the glove compartment. His eyes glinted in surprise as he pulled out a granola bar, giving Peter a peek at Neal’s usual self.

“There’s never snacks,” he piqued. He stifled a stubborn yawn against his sleeve.

Peter shrugged and chose to ignore the way Neal’s ears turned red. “They help on busy cases,” he said casually. “And it’s handy for stakeouts if Elizabeth doesn’t have time to make deviled ham.”

He looked over to see Neal unscrewing the cap on the water bottle before taking a small sip. And then, another. To his relief, Neal seemed to have stopped shaking.

The New York City traffic looked dense. Cars moved slowly, and it took Peter three tries to pull into traffic. He kept his head on a swivel, trying to find room to merge.

And by the time Peter wanted to ask Neal about the whole ordeal, he found Neal leaned against the window, his eyes closed. The sight made Peter’s heart squeeze; he also felt a shiver of worry. Peter had seen the man grumpy and hangry, but never asleep, let alone asleep in his car. 

Neal had at least eaten some of the granola bar and drank some of the water. The remnants of both sat in the cup holder between them.

Peter considered that a win and made a mental note to set up another meeting with Mozzie.

Still, he was glad the man was in one piece. Neal slept on, and Peter was still at a loss of what to do, if letting him sleep would be best, or waking him when they arrived? But, behind his worry was a strong sense of gratefulness and luck.

It could have easily been Neal on that plane, too.  

And although Neal wouldn’t or couldn’t talk about it with him now, Peter knew that like everything else, they’d get through it together.

And for now, that was enough for Detective Peter Burke.

#whumpril #whumpril2023 #ive got a few started for this challenge #so im excitedly hopeful #even tho im already behind on posting lol #white collar fic #white collar #peter burke #neal caffrey #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes #thunderously halo

[acasualcrossfade]

Fever Care

Rating: T | Words: 829 | CW: none | Ao3

Written for Whumpril: day 2– Sweat

Eddie takes care of a feverish Steve.

--

Eddie rushed as he filled a glass of water and wet a cloth, hating to spend even a few seconds away from Steve and his fever. Eddie squeezed the cloth to damp, not bothering to dry his hands before heading back to their bedroom. Steve still lay curled on his side, his sweaty hair dampening the pillowcase a darker blue. 

At the sound of Eddie returning, Steve pried open one tired eye. 

“Hey, got you some water,” Eddie started as he sat on the edge of the bed. He’d changed out of his jeans and shirt for work and into sweatpants and one of Steve’s old tees. Eddie kept his hair tied back in a loose bun, wanting nothing to come between him and taking care of his sick boyfriend. 

Steve groaned as he pushed himself to his elbow. He’d stripped off his shirt sometime in the night, and still felt too warm as the covers fell away. His arm shook with the effort to sit, and was thankful when Eddie guided him the rest of the way to upright. Steve whined at the movement and effort, and only wanted to sleep.

Eddie pressed a kiss into Steve’s damp hair. “I know you’re tired, babe,” Eddie soothed as he watched the numbers climb on the thermometer. “We’ll get you some painkillers and then you can sleep, okay?”

Eddie ran a hand over Steve’s temple and down to his neck. Eddie reached for the glass of water on the bedside table. “Here, sip this. Slowly, okay? And then, take these.”  

Steve took the pills from Eddie and swallowed them with a wince, and managed half the glass of water before pulling away. He felt awful, and even the effort to drink felt like too much.  

“I’m not liking the look of this fever, Steve,” Eddie mumbled, biting his lip in worry. He pressed the back of his hand against Steve’s forehead, then reached for the thermometer. “Here, open up.”

“You jus’took it,” Steve mumbled around the thermometer under his tongue.

“I know,” Eddie worried. “But you look worse than you did an hour ago.” 

“Gee tanks,” Steve grumbled with the thermometer under his tongue. Steve let his head fall into Eddie’s chest as Eddie cuddled him closer.

“Well, the meds should kick in and help.” 

Steve pouted around the thermometer but nodded as the device beeped.

“100.5. You don’t do anything halfway, do ya, Harrington?”

“Mm-mm. N’m’glad you’re here,” Steve mumbled into Eddie’s shirt, shifting so his arms wrapped around Eddie’s waist as he leaned into his chest. The aching in his bones was heavy and it felt as if he was trapped in molasses. Steve was heavy on Eddie’s chest, the fever sapping his energy. 

“Course I’m here.”

“Didn’t wan’to keep you home.”

Eddie looked down at Steve on his chest.  “You didn’t want to keep me home?”

“Kieth’s a menace. N’you just started there.” Steve’s voice was a hoarse mumble.

Eddie stroked Steve’s shoulder. “Doesn’t mean you should be alone, though. Especially when you’re not feeling well.”

Steve whimpered and hugged Eddie closer. 

“Besides,” Eddie continued. “I can handle Kieth. Remember how he tried to tell me rings weren’t company policy?”

Steve let out a weak laugh. “Failed at that.”

“Exactly. And now I wear extra just to piss him off.” Eddie pressed another kiss to Steve’s head. “When did you start feeling like this?”

Steve shifted against Eddie’s chest. “Yesterday. Felt kinda…weird. N’hot.” Steve managed a weak shrug. “N’it’s summer.”

Eddie nodded. “And nothing else feels weird? Your stomach or anything?”

Steve shook his head and pulled out of Eddie’s arms. “Jus’ feels like I swallowed knives.” He fell back to the bed and turned to his side, trying to find a comfortable position. His limbs were heavy and even laying down, his head still pounded in his ears.

Eddie placed a loving hand on Steve’s bare shoulder and reached for the cool rag. “This fever has you burning up.”

Steve could only groan in response as he pushed off the rest of the blankets around his legs.

Eddie ran the rag over his temples and neck. The cool touch felt like a miracle and Steve let his eyes slip closed as his body cooled slightly.

Eddie continued his ministrations until Steve curled on his side and Eddie stroked the cloth over his cheeks.

Steve mumbled a word as he let sleep start to pull at his mind. “Stay?”

Eddie gave Steve’s shoulder a squeeze and he carefully climbed on the bed so he lay next to Steve. 

It took Steve a minute to turn over and into Eddie, snuggling up against the man’s side with his head back on Eddie’s chest. Steve hummed contentedly against Eddie, letting the rhythm of Edde’s breath be a lullaby. 

Eddie stayed with Steve until he fell asleep, occasionally carding his fingers through Steve’s sweaty brown hair. 

And Steve slept, knowing that Eddie was right there if he needed anything. 

#whumpril #whumpril day 2 #whumpril2024 #sweat #steddie #steddie fic #steddie whump #sick eddie munson #caretaker steve harrington #caretaking #fever fic #whump writing #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously_halo writes

[acasualcrossfade]

At the Cemetery

Prompt: “Don’t leave…please.”

STWG daily prompt | @strangerthingswritersguild

Rating: T | CW: mentions of character death

Words: 665

Steve and Eddie visit Chrissy's grave.

--

Steve checked his watch and looked around the cemetery. The three minutes Eddie requested to be alone at Chrissy’s grave had long passed, and Steve felt a shiver of anxiety crawl up his spine. The entire ordeal reminded him too much of Max, and at the horrific image of watching her rise higher and higher…

Gray clouds rolled across the sky with a rumble of thunder and Steve felt his sense heighten. The cemetery was empty, the prospect of rain keeping even the mourners away for the afternoon. When he felt the first few droplets of cold rain on his cheek, he took a breath, grabbed an umbrella from his car, and started back up the steps to Chrissy’s grave. 

He hated the idea of Eddie sitting there alone.

Steve knew that they were more than friends. They’d spent the last few nights curled in bed together, using cuddles to keep nightmares away and it worked; it’d been three nights of peaceful sleep with him waking, fully rested, in Eddie’s arms. 

Steve missed that warmth as he walked towards the grave, the oncoming storm turning the wind colder. His sneakers sunk in the grass caught Eddie’s familiar curls blowing erratically in the growing wind from where he sat. Eddie’s back was to him but he already could tell Eddie was wearing one of his jacket.

The sight sent a flutter through his chest, but it extinguished as he got closer. 

Eddie’s shoulders were shaking and Steve caught the sound of Eddie’s breathy intakes and shuddering gasps. 

Eddie was crying.

Steve’s skin prickled. Suddenly, it felt too private of a moment. 

What was he thinking? He should have stayed by the car.

Yet he thought about the numerous nights they’d spent closing the space between them in the bed, the many times he woke to Eddie’s hand curled in his chest hair. Just that morning, he’d woken to Eddie asleep on his chest and it was a moment he wanted to live in for as long as possible.

Maybe more distance wasn’t always the answer.

The darkening sky helped urge his feet a few more steps forward, getting enough to see the pockets snapped closed on the side of Eddie’s sleeve.

“Eddie?”

The man jumped, wiping at his eyes and cheeks with the jacket sleeve before turning to face Steve.

His face was red and puffy and his brown eyes were full and teary. He looked small in Steve’s larger jacket. He kept it wrapped close around him like a blanket. 

Steve felt his ears go red, fighting against the feeling of intruding. “Just wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Under Eddie’s watery gaze, Steve could feel how out of place he was. He stumbled back, trying to think of an excuse to leave. The rain picked up, more droplets falling against his cheeks as he turned back towards the car.

“Don’t leave…please.”

Eddie’s voice came out wobbly and pleading.

Steve paused.

“I could use some company,” Eddie finished, wiping his eyes and shifting to sit cross-legged. 

And like many times in bed, Steve closed the distance between them and sat down, immediately feeling the damp ground seeping cold through the butt of his jeans. Rain began to fall faster and Steve pushed open the dark blue umbrella, making sure it covered the both of them.

Steve scooted so their knees touched, feeling another small flutter in his chest when Eddie’s knee stayed in place against his.

Steve looked at Chrissy’s grave, watching the rain dot it a darker gray.

“I met her once or twice,” Steve whispered softly. “She seemed nice.”

Eddie sniffled, fresh tears fathering in the corners of his eyes. “She was.”

Eddie didn’t go on and Steve didn’t push him to and as the minutes passed, the patter of the rain against the umbrella became a steady shower.

Yet, Steve didn’t move, relishing in the warmth of Eddie’s knee against his, staying at Eddie’s side for as long as he needed. 

#steddie #steve harrington #eddie munson #chrissy cunningham #rip chrissy cunningham #cw death #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes #stwgdailyprompt #daily drabble

[acasualcrossfade]

Guitar Picks and Chocolate Chips

For: @berenwrites

Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson

Rated: M

Chapters: 3/3

Word count: 16K

Tags: Canon-compliant, hurt/comfort, fluff, happy ending, Rockstar!Eddie, Eddie Munson Lives

CW: mild cursing, mentions of sex

Summary: Steve takes care of Eddie as he heals from the Demo-bats. As Steve’s crush develops, so does Eddie’s music career. Both Steve and Eddie find that life is about the simple things, like guitar picks and chocolate chips, and being together.

This fic is a part of the @steddieholidayexchange!

Read this on Ao3!

#steddie holiday exchange #steddieholidayexhange #guitar picks and chocolate chips #steddie #steddie fic #my fic #steve harrington #eddie munson #fic event #acasualcrossfade writes #thunderously halo writes