Tumgik
#eddie munson x fem
hllfireclb · 1 year
Text
+18 mdni, sorry for any writing mistakes!
"Guess I lied“ | e.m x fem !reader
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
"Eddie it- fuck! It hurts!“ your voice is nothing but a loud, high-pitched whine and the only sound in your boyfriends messy bedroom. Well that and the sounds of him licking and slurping at your sensitive, already overstimulated pussy. It‘s been a good hour since Eddie started eating you out, since he told you "It’d only be 5 minutes, promise“.
Well you should‘ve known it. Once Eddie starts eating you out, he can’t just stop after you came. He needs more. He almost gets obsessed with your taste on his tongue, your shaking legs around his head, the way your body reacts to his touch and good god your voice. He loves your voice so much. It’s the prettiest melody he‘s ever heard.
" 'M sorry baby but you just taste too fucking good. I need more. Just one more round 'kay?" His eyes meet yours from between your legs. His mouth and chin are covered in your juices, arousal and his spit. God he’s so messy. It’s so hot. But it’s never just "one more round“ he keeps getting greedier, greedier and greedier for you. A soft sigh escapes your lips and you let your head flop back on the pillow beneath you. "You said 5 minutes Ed‘s. You even promised“ you pout slowly even though you think Eddie can’t quite see it.
You expect him to answer you with a low "sorry baby“ followed by a soft kiss to your inner thigh, but instead you feel his tongue flick your sensitive bud. A devilish grin takes place on Eddie‘s lips when he sees your reaction, as he kisses your pussy again.
"Well, guess I lied ;)"
masterlist
4K notes · View notes
loserforeddie · 2 years
Text
Shot In The Dark
(yes again the song is based on the Ozzy Osbourne song. But it makes sense trust me)
Summary: When the popular good-grade student start to talk to Eddie Munson, he thinks it’s too good to be true. They become quick friends, but when she asks him out, learns that it was too good to be true...
Eddie Munson x fem! reader
Warnings: Bullying, Eddie thinking he got asked out by the reader as a joke, Eddie not understanding feelings, shy reader
Word count: 3.3k
SORRY THIS TOOK ME SO LONG YALL. also this is gonna be two parts! also male version of this story will be posted soon!
Part 2 here :)
. . . .
Eddies eyes followed you as you walked down the aisle of the cafe. Your tray in one hand and an English book in the other.
He watched slowly as your eyes pointed straight ahead, not even glancing at him. Not that he had expected you to. 
You, being “Hawkin’s Pride and Joy” would never give him the time of day. Not with your grades or social standing. And it was pathetic of him to even hope you would.
And yet still, you had given him the time of day. 
Four weeks ago, to be exact. 
He was in the library, a place he rarely was, trying so hard to study for Mrs. O’Donelle’s next test. It was getting late, nearing eight, and he knew he should get going. 
But still, he had no idea what this test was even on. He stared blankly at the test review page in front of him. Hoping if he stared long enough, it would somehow make sense. 
But, it didn’t.
He let out a long, dramatic sigh. Flinging his head back and rolling his eyes.
Normally, he was sure someone would have shushed him or given him a dirty look for all the commotion he was causing. But no one was in the library at that time, he knew that no one would be as dumb as him to stay this late-
“Excuse me,” a voice behind him said, “Is that seat taken?” You asked so politely as you pointed to the seat next to him.
He jumped, startled by your soft voice.
Your eyes stared down into his, you had your normal amount of makeup on, but the lipgloss you wore made your lips stand out more to him. You wore something so casual, a normal every-day-outfit, but still, everything about you screamed polished, pristine. 
He gulped, nodding before saying, “N-No, it’s not.”
You gave him a small smile before setting your bag and books down next to him.
Up until that moment, he had never truly given you the time of day, never looked in your direction, never even thought about you.
And yet, here you were, sitting next to him, almost elbow to elbow.
You turned over to him smiling, “My name is Y/N, and you’re Eddie right?”
He gawked at you for a minute. You remembered his name? What mythical world was this?
After a very strange and long silence, he finally said, “Uh-yeah, yeah that’s me. Eddie.”
God, he wanted to shoot himself. 
But you just smiled at him, “That’s cool. What test you’ studying for? Mines for Pinleiy, his class is seriously kicking my ass.”
His eyebrows quirked up, he didn’t expect someone like you to swear. And yet, he also didn’t expect you to sit with him. 
“O'Donnell,” he said, a bit quietly.
You groaned, “Oh my god, she’s such a bitch! I hated her class. She made everything so difficult for everyone, those homework assignments always kicked my ass.”
Eddie raised an eyebrow. Where you, Y/N L/N, really trying to start a conversation with him? 
He paused for a minute. 
“Yeah, she sucks man. I failed her class twice.”
You looked over your shoulder, checking to see if anyone was there. Before looking back at him smirking, “Don’t tell anyone, but on her last final I totally cheated!”
Eddie’s eyebrows shot up, “No way, the Y/N L/N? Na, I ain't buying it.”
You giggled, “It’s true! I wrote my notes on my arm.”
Eddie scoffed, “Please, that’s the oldest shit in the book. You probably got caught but Mrs. O’Donnell let you get away with it because of how much of a goody-two-shoes you are.”
You gasped at him, “I’m hurt! I’ll have you know I was super slick about it!”
Eddie let out a laugh, a genuine laugh, “Please, I highly doubt that.”
You huffed, “You know, I was going to ask if you needed help studying, but after this, I will no longer be offering my services.”
He chuckled, “You? Help me? Come on, this has to be some sort of sick joke.”
But you shook your head, “Nope. I mean it, if you want, I can help you. Seriously.”
He looked at you, your eyes twinkling with sincerity. 
He let out a sigh, “Yeah, I mean if the smartest girl in Hawkins offers to tutor you, you kinda have to say yes, right.”
You giggled, “I don’t know if I’d say I’m the smartest-”
Eddie let out a laugh, “Oh come on, don’t be so modest. You and that Wheeler girl are like, stupidly smart. And popular, Jesus what a match.”
You rolled your eyes, “I’m not popular-”
But Eddie cut you off again, “Uh-huh, you tell yourself that, sweetheart.”
At the mention of the nickname, he notices your composer shift, only for a moment. You become flustered, your calm and charming exterior cracked for just a moment. Replaced with a shy, flustered girl.
“But,” Eddie continued, “yes, I would appreciate any help.”
After he said that, you perked up. 
“W-well, um, let’s get started!”
You two stayed for a while until he felt confident about his ability to actually pass this upcoming test. 
He beamed at you, “Wow, thanks Y/N. Damn, might even get myself an A.”
You giggled at his pride, your eyes shining with admiration. “You worked hard, I’m sure you’ll do great.”
Eddie gave you a goofy grin, “Na, I could never get this far without you…thank you Y/N.”
He saw your eyes dart away from his, face flushed, “Oh yeah, yeah don’t even worry about it. Just think of it as..as a favor.”
Eddie cocked a brow at you, “Damn, one heck of a favor. You know you didn’t have to do this, right? I mean, we don’t even know each other.”
You smiled at him, and a felt a small pull in his gut. 
“I don’t know, I thought it would be nice. And besides, I had nothing else going on. And you’re pretty good company, Munson.”
He didn’t know why, but he felt his heart start to race in his chest, and the feeling of his stomach doing jumping jacks when your eyes met his. Had you always been so pretty?
He gulped down his nerves, “You’re not so bad yourself, Y/N.”
You smiled at that, “Glad you think so.”
. . . 
After a few days, you talked to him again.
He was at one of his favorite music stores, He lost his favorite tape of Iron Maiden (Piece of Mind) and realized he needed it in order to be able to jam out properly.
And he loved this little music shop. Notably, it had mostly rock and metal songs, but it also had popular and more mainstream artists as well. He grimaced at the Beatles and Bowie cover next to his beloved Black Sabbath. 
He sighed, finally finding the album he needed. 
Just as he was about to head over to the counter, he heard the door open followed by a familiar voice.
“Pardon me,” he heard you say, “do you happen to have any Metallica tapes? For a walkman?”
He swore his heart did a double-take, seeing your pretty face in such a dark place as this small music shop, really made you stand out.
Not to mention, you had just asked if they had any Metallica. That was enough to get his heart pumping louder than it had before.
As one of the employees showed you the way to one of the metal sections of the store, he followed you.
“Right here, ma’am. We even got the newest album, let me know if you need any help,” the employee said politely, before walking away.
As you searched, he came up behind you.
“Didn’t realize you liked Metallica.”
He saw you jump at his words, your face shooting back to his.
“Wow!” He said, “Easy there! Didn't mean to frighten you.”
You shook your head, “Sorry I just didn't see you there. And um… I'm not a Metallica fan. I just- I just heard they were good.”
Eddie nodded, smirking, “Well sweetheart, you heard right. Metallica is pretty good man, especially if you just trying to get into metal. But you don't really seem like the metal type.”
At that, he saw your face flush, “I wanted to try something new, I guess.”
He smiled, “Hey no shame in that. I respect it actually.”
He looked around before pulling a tape out of his pocket, “Here, take this one so you don’t have to pay for it. Just give it back whenever.”
The album was Master of Puppets. It was new, considering the album had just come out, so it was in pretty good condition. 
Your eyes widened as you took it, “No, I couldn’t-”
But he just smiled, “I insist. Just give it back to me the next time you see me, alright? I’m returning my favor, from when you helped tutor me, remember?”
You nodded, smiling, “Well, that’s very generous of you, Munson, I appreciate it. And yes, next time I see you, I’ll give it back.”
. . .
And he did see you again. In a place that he least expected.
His band was playing at the Hideout, a not-so-popular bar in town. The crowd is maybe filled with four or five drunk old men, and the smell of cheap booze lingered in the air.
But I didn't care, he played his guitar until his fingers felt like they couldn't strum a single chord anymore. He played until he physically felt like he was going to fall off his feet.
 And when he finished playing, the one thing he least expected to happen, came true.
Applause was heard in the bar, from one pair of hands.
His eyes widened, seeing your pretty face beaming up at him.
You were seated in a booth, near the back of the bar. You were dressed in a normal, comfy outfit. But still, it made his lungs run out of fresh air.
 As you continue clapping, you looked up at him smiling, a genuine smile.
 He felt his heart do a flip.
 As the band started to pack up their equipment, you made your way over to him.
“Wow! You guys are so good!” 
Eddie’s eyes widened, where you really here for them?
As if you could read his mind, you said quickly, “I-I just came in because I was studying nearby and saw you playing. But wow! I didn’t even know you played!”
Eddie could feel his heart skip at your praise. 
“Ah, well. Thanks, sweetness, but we don't really get that much of a crowd.”
Eddie gestured around the bar where most of the men were now almost completely passed out.
You smiled, your eyes locking with his, “Maybe you’re just ahead of your time, Munson.”
He could feel his cheeks becoming hot, and he had to look away from your eyes so you wouldn’t notice. 
He coughed and laughed slightly, “Yeah..yeah I guess you could say that.”
Before you could respond, one of Eddie’s bandmates made his way over to you two, “Hey man, the vans all packed up,” he looked over at you, raising an eyebrow, “Sorry was I interrupting something?”
Eddie paused, but you shook your head, “No, I was just saying how good you guys were! You’re the drummer, right? You did really well! I’ll have to come back again and listen to you guys more.”
Gareth gaped at you, eye’s in disbelief.
You shuffled awkwardly, before saying, “Sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. My name Y/N L/N, I think we had English together last year.”
As if broken out of a trance, Gareth nodded vigorously, “Um-yeah. English…yeah with Mrs. Kelly. Yeah, I remember, you were my partner for a project. Something about The Great Gatsby?”
You laughed a bit, and Eddie was suddenly very aware of his fist clutching his guitar pick so hard he felt a sting of pain in his palm.
“Yeah, I remember. We had to make a poster about the life-changing aspects of the 1920’s. Oh my god, it was so boring.”
You and Gareth laughed at a shared memory, and Eddie decided that he had had enough.
He tried his best to sound nonchalant, but he knew he just came off brash, “Here man, take these and get the van started.” Eddie handed him his keys, “I’ll be out in a sec.”
Gareth took the keys from Eddie, giving a knowing smirk as he walked away. Eddie could have even sworn he saw him wink at him as he walked off.
You shifted nervously from foot to foot, before Eddie finally piped up, “So um- you liked the show?”
Your eyes lit up, “Yeah, I really did! Oh my gosh, and you’re guitar playing? It was so sick!”
Eddie laughed, “Wow, you might be our first-ever fan, Y/N.”
You smiled up at him, lashes fluttering lightly, “Then I hope to stay your number one fan.”
He smiled at that. How cute, he thought.
Your eyes lit up, and you reached into your pocket, “I almost forgot!”
You pulled out a tape, handing it back to him, “You were right, the album was so good! I loved every second of it. Thank you for letting me borrow it.”
Eddie nodded, “Yeah I mean of course. I have a few other recommendations if you’re every not too busy-”
“I mean, I’m not busy right now?”
Eddie smiled, preparing fully to blow off his band mates, “Well then, sit down sweetheart.”
. . . 
You too continued to talk more and more after that, mostly out of school. And most of the time, you’d somehow find him.
And yet, he couldn’t get you out of his brain.
It had actually started to interfere with his life. He couldn’t write any new D&D campaign ideas because all he could think about was your smile, he couldn’t play his guitar because all he could think about was how you praised him that night at the Hideout.
He had even stopped making a commotion whenever you were around, choosing to stay quiet whenever you entered a room.
But that was because he normally couldn’t take his eyes off of you.
And yet, for the last few days, he had heard nothing from you. Not a nice small conversation, a “how are you”, not even a few glances at him. Nothing. 
He normally wouldn’t have cared, who was this girl? Some prissy prep? Why should he care if she come up to him and started talking to him again? 
But he did. He cared. He wanted to hear her sweet voice again. To watch her pretty eyes light up when she was working on homework. He wanted to see her smile up at him, to feel his heart beat out of his chest. He wanted desperately to walk up to her himself. 
But he stilled himself. He knew that he probably shouldn’t read into anything, he didn’t want to seem desperate. Even if he found himself falling for someone he desperately wish he didn’t.
He sighed, walking to his next class after lunch was over. 
He spent the whole period thinking about you, which wasn’t uncommon for him anymore, he’d usually think about you for most of the day.
He hated how he couldn’t just go up to you. Why’d he have to wait for you? Why couldn’t he just stop being a pussy and start a conversation with you?
But he knew the answer, it was because he was a coward. 
He sighed as the final bell rang.
“Finally,” he muttered under his breath as he left the school, walking over to his van.
But as he got closer, he saw a familiar face.
He felt his feet hiccup on the ground, the air flying out of his lungs.
But your face lit up as he approached, eyes sparling under the sun's light. Your beautiful face illuminated by the suns light made his heart momentarily stop working.
God, you were driving him insane.
This was definitely new, however, you would never approach him at school. He tried to calm himself down as he approached you, trying his best to become more nonchalant. 
You waved at him, “Hey Eddie!”
“Hey there sweetheart, what are you doing here?”
Your eyes faltered, looking down at your shoes. “Well- I,” you breathed in heavily, hands fidgeting lightly.
He raised an eyebrow, why were you suddenly so nervous? You had been waiting by his van after all.
“You alright, Y/N?”
Your eyes looked up quickly, you bit your lip shyly.
“I-um…I had a question…for you.”
He gave you a confused look, “Alright, shoot. I’m not gonna bite,” he said laughing.
Your hands shook and somehow you found your voice, “I was wondering if…maybe you’d wanna…go on a date?”
Eddie immediately felt like he had been shoved to the ground, the air in his lungs escaping him as he gaped at you. Eyes blew wide as he tried to comprehend what you had just asked him.
He, go on a date, with you? This couldn’t be real, like some sort of dream, or-
And then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw them. Your friends, pointing and laughing, at him.
Suddenly, it all made sense. 
Of course, you’d never ask him out, of course, you’d never actually have any sort of feelings for him. You avoided him like the plague at school, why would you ever want to be seen with him? And why right now? You would never go out  with a freak like him.
Of course, this was some sick joke, it was so obvious. He had just been so blind by his own feelings that he pushed reality aside.
And when they saw him staring back, your friends continued to point and laugh, giggling at his dismay. 
“Eddie?” Your sweet, soft voice called back to him. Your eyes were looking at the floor, leg bouncing anxiously, “You don’t have to say yes, I understand. It’s fine, I just wanted to be able to tell you that I-”
Eddie cut you off with a cold laugh.
“Whatever Y/N. You can drop it now.”
Your eyes shot up, looking at him confused, “Wha-”
Eddie shook his head, a mad grin plastered on his face, “I knew that someone like you couldn't be so nice. So what was it then, a dare? A bet? Come on sweetheart,” the nickname dripped with venom, “you don’t have to pretend anymore. I saw your little friends laughing over there. Don’t play so innocent.” 
He pointed over to your friends, watching as they stumbled back with laughter. 
Your eyes widened as you saw your supposed friends (the girls on the cheer squad that you would sometimes sit with at lunch) laughing at you two.
“Wait, Eddie, please I-”
But he shook his head, “I don’t want to hear it Y/N.”
He started walking away, towards the door of his van, you protested as he did so.
He snapped, turning around to you, “You know, I thought you were different, I thought you were nice. I thought…hell, I don’t know what I thought. But you seemed so genuine. But I guess that was all an act, huh? Should have known, yeah I should have known. Stuck up Y/N, always thinks she’s better than everyone around her. Such a bitch and everyone knows it,” he hated seeing the hurt in your eyes, but he kept going, “such a goddamn stuck-up priss, a goddamn people pleaser. An attention whore. I should have known better.”
He hopped in his van, slamming his door as he refused to listen to your pleas.
“Eddie stop! Really, I meant it!”
But he had already started driving away, leaving you in the dust of his tires and tears running down your cheeks.
. . .
Part two coming soon!
7K notes · View notes
eddiernunson · 8 months
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
Really Drives Me Mad | EX-bfs dad!Eddie Munson x Reader | 18+
Previous Part | Master List | Next Part
Word Count: 12.8k
Big big thank you to @forget-you-morelike-fuck-you for editing for me I appreciate it, bestie
Another big thank you to @bebe07011 for spitting ideas and giving feedback.
Warnings: Degradation/praise, eating out, public sex, daddy kink, and several scenes where smut is mentioned but not described. There is about 1k of words just from Dylan's perspective but its worth it trust me.
Eddie is a bit of a sugar daddy in this part, but its ok cause we all want him to spoil us anyway.
Author's note: Some of y'all are gonna make me cry with how kind you are with your words for this fic. I cannot believe how much this story has truly taken over my life. People have expressed sharing it with friends and I just cannot get over that. Thank you.
-
Your hands held a home-made cocktail on ice while The Princess Diaries played on the tv, a soft blanket covered your crossed legs as you sat with both Sky and Bethany in your living room, scattered along your couch.
Bethany often snuck a joint or two while she visited, the window staying open to minimize a smell with a 20-dollar fan in front of it to promote air circulation. It was nice to have a girls’ night, to order bags of chips and candy over SkiptheDishes, wear face masks, do your makeup for the hell of it, and just let loose.
Bethany made her way over about a movie and a half ago, and she was now explaining a stupid mishap from her office administrative position that quite literally pulled the company to a halt for 45 minutes. “I swear, you could not pay me enough to put up with those drivers.” She claims, taking an inhale from the joint in her two painted fingers.
Sky makes a sudden movement in her seat, reaching to the remote next to her to pause the movie. “Holy shit. Did I tell you I saw Eddie?” Her question is directed across you to Bethany, and you’re left wondering why the hell your boyfriend is the new topic of discussion.
“Wait, what?” Bethany asks, wide green eyes moving back and forth between you and Sky. “When and where?”
“Our date?” You interject her, a little weirded out by the turn this conversation has taken. “When Eddie picked me up, she was here.”
“Oh, I see.” She hums to herself. “Well, since she won’t show us a photo, please tell me what the man who’s old enough to be her father looks like.”
You roll your eyes at this, a cheeky thought occurring to you. “Well Dylan might be great; but he is a sequel. Ain’t nothing compared to the original.”
Sky nods, agreeing. “Eddie is… very good looking.” You shoot her a warning look, for some reason, her just alluding to his good looks makes you feel territorial. “Show her a picture if you don’t want to hear it, damn! Just telling the truth…”
“It’s not that I won’t show you guys,” you explain, unlocking your phone. “It’s that he doesn’t use social media, so he has no good photos of himself.” On the internet, at least.
“What, no throw back photos from Dylan’s insta?” Sky asks, mostly joking.
You go to Dylan’s insta, and you can’t view it. Fuck, you forgot. He blocked you. Even though he seems to be on better terms with you, simple reminders like being blocked from his social media or him refusing to tell any details about his life remind you he’s still nursing a healing wound. “Still blocked.” You look up, and their faces tell you they’re not letting up on it. “Fine. I’ll go to Eddie’s Facebook.”
Eddie added you as a friend the day after your date, adorably waiting as you went on your phone to accept it. The moment you did he went onto your profile and dove into your photos. His eyes were comically wide as he scrolled through them, and after the first few swipes he lifted his head to you. “You just put these on here? Fuck.” The photos weren’t even particularly bad, just you in a bikini on the beach or in a summer dress, he’s just that obsessed with you. You asked him if he minded and he shook his head comically, his dimples so prominent from his wide smile, he looked manic. “Oh, I never said to stop, sweetheart.”
Your thumb slides into Eddie’s profile, and while you were afraid of the calls from a judgemental relative about the relationship with him the word single on his relationship status still hits you hard in the chest. You move to his photos, past the useless profile picture that was his company logo of Munson’s Garage and swipe through the regular posts, past Dylan’s graduation from college, from high school, a picture of a nice car, an old one of his ex with Dylan, (barf), until you finally got through to a throwback, one posted in 2011.
It was taken in the 90s, so a picture of a picture of him sitting at an old kitchen table arm in arm with another dude. One of his feet was up on the table, and he was clutching a beer, lifting it to the camera. His friend was talking to someone off camera, distracted for the moment, his slightly freckled face in a scowl. His friend had brown hair down to his neck styled specifically in a swoop, and they seemed about the same age.
His friend was quite attractive, but younger Eddie made you fucking drool. God, he was so gorgeous. He wore a leather jacket under a denim vest, ripped blue jeans over his big black boots. Fuck. You almost didn’t want to share this photo.
You go to the next photo, and a giggle leaves your mouth as you see him posing with a friend, tongues out and devil horns on their heads as smiles peek through. The background is a stage at an Iron Maiden concert, and they both look ecstatic. It’s a different friend in this one with curly hair, but it looked like he had posted from the Iron Maiden concert. A few more scrolls told you that the throwback photo would be the best option.
“Ok.” You finally say, and both girls have been waiting so long at this point they’ve started scrolling on their own phones. “Guys. You wanna see it or not?”
You hand your phone to Bethany, indicating he was the one on the right. The possessiveness that hits you when you see her reaction, her wide eyes and jaw literally dropping, stunted you. “Holy shit. This is him from how long ago?”
“In the late 90s, I guess.” You tell her.
She hands the phone to Sky, who was asking for it repeatedly as soon as Bethany let out her reaction. “Oh, yeah. He was a cutie. Honestly, he’s hotter now.” Your teeth grit, and you take a deep breath in to calm yourself.
“How?” Bethany asks, gesturing to your phone.
“Ok. Enough. He’s very good looking. But he’s fucking taken.” You bark out, holding your hand out for the phone.
They both stop talking, your sudden anger very uncharacteristic of you. Usually when you find someone particularly good looking, you’d show them off, agreeing with your two friends when they would praise their good looks. This wasn’t anything like those times. Hearing their praises just makes you want to sink your teeth into Eddie’s neck and mark your territory the next time you see him.
“Woah, girl.” Sky says, laughing lightly to diffuse the tension. “Never seen that side of you before.”
“Well, I didn’t even know she existed until a waitress looked at Eddie on our date and I wanted to throttle her,” You admit, grabbing the nearly empty cocktail and taking a sip. “I just…I don’t know why I’m so territorial over him, but God, the thought of him with someone else makes me sick to my stomach.”
Bethany holds her hands up in surrender, “Alright, we won’t compliment him anymore. But you did good, girl. You did mighty good.”
-
As per usual, the girls'-day-in resulted in the three of you falling asleep in the living room, blankets and pillows scattered across the three of you. The sun cascading through a window by the couch wakes you up, disgruntled, as you pat around for your phone. The screen greets you harshly, your notifications indicating you have three messages from Eddie, two from a manager at work, and the several random ones, which you clear out, not caring about Instagram stories for the moment. Eddie texted to say he was going into work for a few hours. The next two messages indicated if you were there when he got home, he wouldn’t be against it.
Basically, he just told you to please be there when he got home. Fuck, the feeling of him reaching out first was enough to send a wide smile to your face, staring stupidly at your phone. You message him back, letting him know you’ll be there.
The messages from your manager were one from two hours ago, asking if you’d be able to come in for 10 o’clock– Which was thirty-five minutes ago– and the second asked if you were able to come in at all. You quirk your eyebrow, glad your read receipts are off for her, because you’re planning now to text at 3 o'clock to let her know that, oops, you just saw this. No, you’re not going in on your day off, you’ll be spending it with your ridiculously hot boyfriend.
You leap from your couch, running into your room to pack another overnight bag. You’re out the door before the others even stir.
As you pull into Eddie’s driveway, you notice Dylan’s truck there, but Eddie’s is still gone. You wonder when he’ll be back, because although Dylan is civil towards you, interactions with him are still stunted. You open the front door, grateful Dylan tended to leave it unlocked. You drop your overnight bag and pillow off at the staircase, its usual spot, before you trot off to the living room where Dylan sits watching tv.
As you plop down next to him on the other side of the couch, Dylan looks to you, startled by the movement, but his eyes roll in exasperation when he realizes that it’s you. “Hi.” You sing-song to him, knowing you’re annoying him, but having fun with it anyways.
“Hey.” He deadpans, watching the tv instead of looking over to you.
“Oh, wow you’re almost caught up.” You say, indicating to a show that you had recommended he watched a while back.
“Turned out to be a good show.” He comments, sounding annoyed.
“Well, how about that?” You retort, and Dylan rolls his eyes before a small smile lands on his face.
Progress.
Less than an hour later, the front door closes, indicating Eddie’s homecoming. He walks in, and as you pay attention to a particularly good episode in this series, you hear a big stretch come from him. “Hi, Ed!” You call out, finally turning towards him.
Fuck. Holy shit.
A few grease stains paint Eddie’s hands and chin, and he’s wearing a pair of blue coveralls from work with a patch on his chest of his name. The grease monkey suit shows off his muscles beautifully, both sleeves rolled up to his forearms. His hair is tied back into a messy bun, and you’re sure he forgot about the reading glasses on his head. Oh god, he is mouth watering.
A throw pillow hits your face, completely startling you. You whip your head around, glaring at  the culprit. “Little drool.” Dylan mouths, pointing to his chin.
“Oh, little drool?” You mock, getting up to hit him with the pillow hard. He chuckles, fighting you off.
You push his shoulder off, shuffling into the kitchen. You turn to see Eddie moving around the kitchen, making himself a quick sandwich. “Hi baby!” You greet him, reaching out for him.
“Oh, hi baby.” He says, following up with an air kiss. He breaks into laughter at your scowl. “Sorry, you don’t want this grease on you. It smells terrible and it’s not fun to wash off.”
“But there’s no grease on your lips.” You point out, staring at those pretty pink lips of his.
“Baby, I cannot kiss you without touching you and there is grease all over my hands.” He chuckles, holding them out.
You want to point out that he’s getting things dirty with grease in the kitchen, including his sandwich, by his own logic, but you have a feeling you won’t get away with it very easily. “Fine. Come see me when you’ve had a shower then.” You tell him, attempting to waddle back to the living room.
“Ah, ah.” Eddie tuts, grabbing your hand. “Come with me, after I shower, I need time with you in my bed.”
“In your bed? Or, in your bed?” You ask, your eyebrows furrowing suggestively at the second option.
“If you didn’t know the answer by now, clearly I haven’t done my job right.” He says in a lowly, his eyes darkening in an instant.
Eddie turns around to the sandwich he made as if he hadn’t said a word, grabbing it quickly before tugging on your hand to take you up the stairs.
He hops into the shower, you scroll through your phone on his bed as you wait, somewhat impatiently, your panties already uncomfortable from his stroll into the house in his work uniform.
Fuck, he was hot. You thought about him. His muscles, the slight glisten of sweat, and your phone was tossed aside before you even realized your hands were roaming over your body. You close your eyes, the image of him busy at work on his back on one of those…rolly things in your head. His forearms flexing, the look of concentration on his face.
Your hands itch for your center and you can barely hold back anymore, thankful you opted for a pair of stretchy shorts. Your fingers graze your center easily, rolling around in small circles as you picture the easy access his coveralls would give you, showing up with a dress and no panties and just riding him in his office. Fuck, maybe you wouldn’t even make it there. Goddamn, the images were too hot, your panties finding their way around your ankles as you grind up against your own fingers.
“Fuck.”
Your eyes fling open to see your boyfriend in his towel. You were so wrapped up you didn’t even notice the water from his shower turn off. He’s staring, open mouthed and eyes dark, and Jesus… This was a fantasy of yours from the beginning. You continue, staring half lidded back at him, hand grabbing up at his bed frame when it started to feel so fucking good.
Eddie’s towel drops when his brain catches up, jumping into his bed to lay next to you. “Couldn’t even wait, huh?” He asks, and you let out a whimper as he lightly kisses your neck. “Just couldn’t fucking wait.”
“You were so hot—” you gasp out, moving faster on yourself now. “—in that goddamn uniform. Wanna…wanna ride you in it.”
The very indication that you were playing with yourself because you found him that hot in his uniform is too much for Eddie to process. He nearly moans, leaning for another kiss on your neck. His hands are itching to help you, itching to take off the rest of those clothes that hide your gorgeous body, but he holds back, needing to know more about it. “What—what were you thinkin’ ‘bout, baby?”
“You, in the uniform…” you tell him, your hips starting to move when your want grows. Why isn’t he helping?
“C’mon, baby. I wanna touch you but I just gotta know.” Eddie tells you, his voice gruff.
A gulp moves through your throat before opening your mouth to tell him. “Your dick out of the uniform, and me with no panties and a dress at your shop, riding you anywhere…your office, the rolly thing, god, just you in that uniform…Ed…”
Goddammit, was that an idea Eddie certainly had before. He has wanted to show you around his workplace, but also christen it with you, and he had had the exact idea with his uniform and you in a dress, to boot. “Fuck, my horny, eager little slut, hey?” Eddie asks, watching your closed eyes as you continue to work yourself.
“Please…please touch me?” You ask him, the torture of his voice there but not actually helping you is too much. “Want…want you.”
“Hmm. Horny little slut didn’t wait for me…I dunno if she even deserves my help.” He bluffs, wanting nothing more than to reach out and feel the slick of your wet pussy.
You nearly cry out in protest, not calling him on his bluff. “I’m sorry, couldn’t help myself…you’re just so…fuck…you’re so fucking hot, Ed.”
He leans in to kiss you and you accept it gratefully, a smile against his lips. As his lips move against yours, deepening the kiss to easily work his tongue against yours, his hands land on yours against your pussy delicately, gently pulling your fingers to the side. He slides a digit in and you whimper into his mouth, your hips thrusting up. “Oh, so fucking desperate.” You nod your head, agreeing with him. You’re desperate for more. Even with Eddie on your mind, your fingers never even compared to his.
He leans into your neck, the scent of his aftershave and body wash strong but oh-so-goddamn good. He slides your shirt up your torso smoothly with his free hand and pulls it from your neck fiercely. You feel his hand somewhat desperately go around your back to unhook your bra, and as it falls casually over the edge onto the floor, he moans at the sight of your exposed tit, your nipple just begging to be touched.
He leans in to mouth the bud, and you whimper at the sensation. He pauses, breathing heavily and open mouthed onto it. You gasp, his hot breath sending waves down your body. “Fuck, so pretty.” Eddie mutters to himself, dark eyes watching your face as you get closer.
A desperate hand of yours tugs him up to your face, desperate for more of his wet and hypnotizing kisses. “Fuck me.” You gasp, suddenly feeling that his fingers weren’t enough. “Need…need your cock. Please.”
Eddie’s mouth opens at the prospect of you simply begging for him, and you can feel a shift in his energy as he starts to kiss you deeper and hungrier. “When you beg so sweetly, how could I possibly say no?” He hums, his hand framing your face.
He finishes yanking the last of your pants off your ankles. As he settles himself in between your legs, he can’t help himself. He leans down, taking one long lick along your folds, for just a taste. You whimper in response, knees springing up to your chest. Eddie chuckles, crawling up slowly until his chest lines up with yours, the tingle of him against you too much to handle. Slowly, he moves into you, and as he stretches you open, your eyes roll back and your toes curl. Eddie watches the utter bliss that takes over your face.
“Oh that beautiful face you make, sweetheart.” He grunts, smoothing his hands over your forehead. His words make you pulse around him. “This fucking tight little pussy wrapped around—” he stops, grunting as you continue to pulse around him. One hand moves down to your hip, caressing it softly he uses the leverage to buck into you.
A hushed swear comes out of you, the simple pleasure from his cock alone sending you into euphoria. Eddie continues slowly, enjoying every inch of your heat around him. “Your pussy…god how did I live without it?”
You clutch onto him, staring up into his darkened brown eyes. You open your mouth to respond in kind, but the particularly harsh rut into you leaves your mouth gasping open and your eyes fluttering shut in pure heaven. “Oh, that’s it.” He mutters, hips moving faster. “That’s my cock-drunk little whore.”
Your nails scratch down his back, and he moans in response. “Eddie, your cock. There’s…I…please.”
“I-I know, baby. I know.”
He collapses onto your chest, and you feel his cock twitch into you as your orgasm takes over your body. His hand carefully sweeps your sweaty forehead as he watches you recover, your eyes losing their haze as you return to earth. “Hi.” He mutters, leaning in to kiss you softly.
“Hi.” You smile. For once, he does take his dick out of you right away, despite your protests. However, you can’t protest any further when he comes back and wraps his arms around you with his chest pressed against your back, his still steadying breaths lulling you into a quiet nap.
Somehow, you know that his arms are always going to be the best place in the world.
-
About an hour later, you’re snuggled against his side, legs intertwined as Eddie watches his show and you work on a crossword puzzle. “What’s a six-letter word for angry?” You ask him, stumped for a good minute.
“Uh…grumpy? Heated? Hmm…raging?”
“Raging! Fuck, I couldn’t get that one. Thanks, baby.” You tell him, receiving a kiss on the head as a response. “Why’d you go in for work, Ed?”
“Other than making my baby horny?” He jokes, muttering it into your hair. “Well, one of my best-known clients called and my men know that when he calls, they need to call me in, because his car is just—” he cuts himself off, holding out the OK sign. He continues talking about the mechanics/politics of handling a car like this in his job. The caliber, the horsepower, the specialized engine, and everything else.
It’s not like you know a whole lot about cars. Most of what he is saying comes out as gibberish. But you listen to him, watching as he gets more and more animated, his hands gesturing wildly as he excitedly explains his morning. You watch him, a soft smile creeping up your face as he describes…what, you weren’t even sure, to you.
He stops as he notices the peculiar look on your face, your eyes glazed over. “What?” he asks, wondering if you caught even a word of his story.
“I love you.” It comes out before you even realize. But it’s true.
With your whole chest, you love him.
Eddie inhales sharply, and he looks at you like you had placed each star in the sky just for him. Because you did. “I-I’ve been wanting to say that to you since I first saw you.”
His words feel both impossible and like they make the most sense in the entire world. Because since day one, you have been captivated by him in every sense imaginable. Taking the time to get to know, see and love every inch of him before recognizing that yes, this is love.
This all occurs to you within a second, because Eddie’s hand is framing your face and you feel his lips on yours, deep and caring to a point that takes your goddamn breath away. Your tongue collides with his, and his fingers are so gentle as they cradle your face it barely feels like he’s holding it. He tastes so good, like the air you breathe is suddenly useless, and all you need to do is breathe him. His fingers intertwine in your hair, he gasps as his forehead collides with your own, clinging onto you for dear life.
“Will you say it?” You ask, realizing he still hasn’t.
“I fucking love you.” He says in a low, soft voice. He uses a hand to force you back and you open your eyes to look into his beautiful brown ones. “I love you.”
Your chest inflates rapidly, like all the emotion just bursts into it. A giggle escapes your lips, the smile on your face seeming to be permanently etched there. He tugs you into the tightest hug, and you feel his heart beat rapidly against your own as your arms fling themselves around his torso, burying your head in his neck.
God, it’s like you fit perfectly there.
He slouches down, ignoring the book you dropped and the forgotten tv show, and lays you down, chest to chest, his arms wrapped around you as you curl into his chest. He nestles his nose into your hair, breathing you in, feeling the breath, the life in you as you breathe in sync with him.
Any sense of time, responsibilities, or the outside world become muted and pale in comparison.
It’s just you and him.  
-
The sizzling sounds of bacon for dinner mixed with Eddie’s humming to some oldies fill the kitchen. Every time he turns around from the stove to grab something, he shoots you a smile that captivates his face, something that you wholeheartedly return each time. The acknowledgement that this is love somehow didn’t feel like it had tied you to anything or that any new expectations were put on either one of you. You simply want his company and he, yours.
You scroll through your phone absentmindedly, though the sight of his hips in his low sitting sweatpants are much more enticing than anything your phone’s algorithms have to show you. Playfully, Eddie keeps dancing a little too hard to the music, head banging and swinging his hips to even the softest of Dad Rock.
God, it’s Heaven. As Eddie serves up a few plates, Dylan comes down dressed in one of his better date night outfits.
“Ooh, hot date?” You ask him, leaning forward onto the kitchen island.
Dylan’s brows furrow, stopping mid stride. “Yeah. Not talking to you about that. You’re still my ex. And you’re still seeing my dad. Weirdo.”
Eddie sends a glare his way, eyes darkening in a split second. Dylan rolls his eyes, sneaking around him to grab a bite of bacon. Ignoring it, Eddie places a plate in front of you with eggs, bacon and toast, and you thank him as he leans in for a kiss.
“Love you.” Eddie mutters, and you smile into his lips and feel him do the same.
“L-love?” Dylan spits out, his voice exasperated. He shakes his head, still chewing on the bacon. “Fuck right off.”
“Dyl.” Eddie starts, leaning forward as he takes a bite from his toast. He has a devious smile on his face, chewing on his idea. “Quiet. The adults are talking.”
If you had expected something out of pocket, it certainly wasn’t that.
The brown eyes Dylan shares with his father widen in pure exasperation. “What?? Dad, I’m six months older than her!”
You barely keep in the laughter that bubbles out of your chest. Eddie grins at you and lets out his own chuckle. “That’ll teach you to be an ass, huh?”
Dylan doesn’t respond, just grits his teeth and yanks one more piece of bacon before leaving through the front door.
-
Dylan Munson got dealt a dirty fucking hand from whoever the fuck is in charge of this shit.
It was only a mere nine weeks ago when you made your way across the mixer to say hi to him that he thought things were going his way. The more he saw you, the more he thought that this had to be leading to something. It made sense to him, but as he had started mentioning long term plans or anything of the like, he could feel you clam up. Every time he mentioned something requiring commitment, your shoulders tensed up, your face winced by only a smidge, but when it became a regular occurrence, Dylan realized you might not have been ready as you thought you were.
He was willing to accept it. So, he took matters into his own hands. Honestly, he would’ve been fine paying the daily fee for parking, but he knew his dad was there, and he was excited to introduce you to him. Boy, what a shit show that turned out to be.
As he woke up to an empty bed, he had expected you to be downstairs. Instead, he was faced with a bowl of cereal without the milk, and he couldn’t tell how long it had been there. He searched the whole house. Your bag, clothes, and shoes were still there, so he knew you couldn’t have gone far. Turns out, he was right. You didn’t. You went two doors down from his own.
The sight of you and his fucking dad in the white sheets was already too much to bear, and then the stab of betrayal from his own father hurt more the initial shock of yours, tugging angry tears from his eyes as he ran to his room. The torture of hearing your whimpers, a sound he knew well, while downstairs trying to cheer himself up was fucking brutal.
When you finally left, his dad came home with a terribly apologetic look on his face as he walked through the front door. Dylan refused to hear a damn word out of his mouth, dismissing all his claims of ‘holding back as long as he could’ and ‘I’ve never felt this strongly about anyone before.’ Shit just hurt.
A day later, Dylan couldn’t hold it in anymore. He screamed at the top of his lungs, the anger finally kicking in. His dad did yell back, but mostly at the choice words aimed at you. It hurt for a moment, as it felt like he cared more about someone he had met last week, his (now ex) girlfriend.
When you and his dad showed no signs of slowing or stopping any time soon, he realized this would become a new normal. Didn’t mean he liked it.
He came home after a relatively long day at work to you and his dad sitting and watching a movie comfortably. His knee jerk reaction was to swear angrily, but the look on your face stuck with him. You had never relaxed with him. You were always looking around corners or there was some part in your body unable to lean into him completely.
As you apologized awkwardly on his bed, his hurt finally felt acknowledged by you, and fuck, he needed to hear that he didn’t do anything wrong. He genuinely started to wonder if he did.
Most of his nights he spent going out, his friends asking where the hot new girlfriend he was bragging about now was. He just said you cheated on him and it was over and they called you a bitch and moved on.
Yes, even Ethan. (The one friend you actually liked)
He drowned his sorrows in alcohol, always making his way back to the house where his ex was expected to be at any given time. God, it was so shit.
After your apology, though, he had to admit, you looked good together. It seemed like his dad’s smile just hadn’t left his face for days, and goddamn, was it annoying to admit that you were good for him. That remaining anger seemed to itch at him, unable to forgive or forget, a buried hatchet with an X to mark the spot.
Ethan eventually brought his girlfriend to boys’ night out, which was met with disgruntled groans from the collective group. Ethan’s girlfriend invited a friend who would be joining, and Dylan fought hard not to roll his eyes.
An hour into the night, a drink, and a few good dances in, Ethan’s girlfriend brought her in, and Dylan stopped dead in his tracks. Okay, no one said she would be fucking gorgeous.
If Dylan thought you were out of his league, then Maya wasn’t even playing the same game. His heart pounded out of his chest, and he knew he had to grab this girl a drink and get her number, now. As he pulled into an easy conversation with her, the hairs stood on his arms as it felt electric just being near her.
Maya met his enthusiasm, agreeing to a date within the first hour of conversation with him. One of his buddies mentioned Dylan had been cheated on by his most recent girlfriend, and Maya was floored. If any girl was lucky enough to have him, how could they even think of cheating?
As Dylan rode home in the backseat of his friend’s truck, drunk on her undivided attention and, well, plain ol’ drunk, something his dad had said came to mind. “I can’t explain it, I just had to know her. In every sense of the word.”
He felt the same way about Maya. Everything about her drew him in. Her smell, the way her jeans hugged her hips, the shine of her red hair. God, she was fucking beautiful.
As he smelled bacon on the way down the stairs, he decided to grab a piece on his way out to his first date with Maya, jitters galore. You asking him about the date was kind, but still too weird for him to gush about the gorgeous girl from the bar he met when that ‘gorgeous girl’ was once you.
Love you, his dad said. The word struck him, it occurred to him he doesn’t truly understand how much you and his father cared for one another. The L word didn’t come easily to Munson men, after all. Dylan walked to his car, disgruntled as the interaction rolled over in his mind.
What a mess he would be bringing her home to, if he ever got lucky enough.
-
Since you worked the next day, you had to go home for the night. The lingering kisses at Eddie’s door were too much to bear.
Too much for Eddie, too. You get a text about twenty minutes after you get home, Need you.
You grit your teeth, you need him, too. Working four days in a row sounds manageable, at least it usually does. Without Eddie to come home to or to wake up with, it’s nearly torture. You ignore Skylar’s comment of codependency. Fuck co-dependency, it isn’t that you depend on him too much, you just need him too much. You need to come home to him, to sit and watch tv with him… It’s the domestic bliss you miss.
Somehow, just reading a book at the end of the night without his even breaths has you on edge. You shoot him a text letting him know you’d be there soon.
As you walk through the doorway of Eddie’s house, he welcomes you and you hop into his arms, inhaling his shampoo as soon as you get close enough to, his familiar scent bringing you an indescribable feeling of safety.  “Need you to stop leaving for so long.” He mutters, feeling nearly crazy for missing you so much while you were gone.
You hum in response, staring into his pretty eyes as they stare down at you lovingly, resting your chin on his chest.
“Move in with me.” It’s impulsive.
You blink, unable to register what he just said. “Uh, what?”
He chuckles, hoping the stunned look on your face is a good thing. “It’s stupid for you to keep moving back and forth between here and your apartment all the time. Move in with me.”
It’s a tempting offer. Could you do it? Realistically, could you bring your things in, set up your skin care routine in his bathroom, have a horde of snacks at your disposal, bring Bethany over for sleepovers…is it possible? He watches as you think it through, and his heart skips a beat as he watches it falter. “I-I can’t. Not yet, at least.”
His head tilts curiously, eyebrows furrowed. “Hmm?”
“I’m still tied to my lease for another three months.” You can’t abandon Sky, not after all this time. “Skylar would be pissed if I just up and left her to either scramble for a new roommate or for a new apartment.”
Was that it? “Oh,” Eddie says, relieved. “I can pay that.”
His answer momentarily stuns you, and a gorgeous laugh escapes his lips as he takes in your slack jaw and wide eyes. “W-what?”
He leans in, kissing your lips sweetly. “Sweetheart. I’m not gonna wait another ninety days when I can just pay it now and get you here tomorrow.”
“You’ll pay my half?” You ask, eyebrows raised, a light smile on your face.
“What’s your rent?”
“1800 for the apartment, we both pay 900 plus utilities.”
He does the quick math. “Oh, so 54 (hundred) to buy the lease out? Yeah, I’ll pay it. Might relieve Sky from being pissed at me for stealing her roommate.”
The casualty of his words drench your underwear, his urge to take care of you sending a heat to your center you can’t explain. You lean in, swiping your tongue on his bottom lip, showing your appreciation. “Can-can we go upstairs?” You ask him, out of breath.
Eddie smiles, taking in your lust-blown eyes and slack expression. “You know that’s not why I offered, right?”
The overwhelming happiness bubbles up from the inside and you shoot a wide smile up at him, chin resting on his chest again. “I know. Still, baby. Want you. Please,”
Eddie smirks, framing your face with his thumbs lightly. “When you say it so nicely, how could I ever refuse?”
You tug him by the hand and start running up the stairs. A yelp echoes through the house as Eddie grabs at your ass near the top, and when he lies down on the bed, you can’t get his cock down your throat fast enough.
-
To say the least, Sky couldn’t find it in her to be angry. She was going to miss you, more than she could describe as her roommate. She also had a three month warning to find a new roommate or a new apartment and had ample time to put at least some money aside while she didn’t have to pay for rent. She really had nothing to complain about. Still, she was gonna miss you.
As soon as the lust of him offering to take care of you died down, you went into overdrive, remembering how stressed you were when you had to move in your current apartment, a lease you’ve renewed twice now. You started making a list of things you needed, working between your phone and a random spiral notebook you found in a junk drawer. How many boxes did you need to get? If you used both Eddie and Dylan’s trucks how many hours would it take to move down the stairs-only building you had?
“What’re you working on?” You hear his voice over your shoulder.
“Oh, just working out the kinks of moving. My car won’t be enough, I’ll need your guys’ trucks to help. I also have my own furniture to worry about. The entertainment center is hers, but the couch is mine. My dresser, my bed, my bathroom shelf, all my bathroom junk—”
“Baby.” He interrupts you, a hand sliding up to your neck. “Relax. I can hire someone to take care of all of this for you. Just focus on packing your things and directing the men around on where to put them.” He places his hands delicately beneath your chin. “Ok?”
Fuck, you might just blow him again.
“Ok.”
And you did just that. You shared your list to Eddie’s phone, who called a smaller moving truck with three men to assist, hired an organizer to assist in organizing what you do or don’t need and who will handle selling your furniture, and finally, paying the rest of your rent to your front office without blinking an eye to get you out of the lease.
Soon, you were on the driveway on a hot day, watching as all the boxes containing your clothes, shoes, makeup, and other junk went up the stairs to Eddie’s (and now your) bedroom, a few staying downstairs.
He stands next to you in a white muscle shirt with a band you don’t know pictured on the front and some sweats, hands on his hips as he watches the movers go back and forth between the house and the truck. He radiates authority, each mover couldn’t be much older or younger than you, but they all look to him with respect, all of their words followed by the word ‘sir’.
“Sir, huh?” You ask, teasing him.
Eddie slightly grimaces, rejecting it. “Yeah, they insisted.”
“Dunno, kinda suits you.” You tease, and you walk back to the house, missing the audible gulp that comes from his throat, imagining it. You, on your knees, begging for him, calling him sir…
“Sir?” One of the movers asks, getting his attention. He flicks back, seeing the clipboard held in front of him. “Need you to sign.”
“Oh, shit, sorry.” He mumbles, picking up the pen to sign.
As he signs his name, Dylan pulls up, taking in the men, the truck, the boxes on the floor visible past the open front door. “She’s moving in?”
Eddie looks at him, apologetic. He had asked you yesterday, and since then, he hasn’t had time to sit down and tell Dylan in person. “Sorry, bud. Kind of just happened all at once.”
Dylan thinks of his new girlfriend’s apartment, the night he had just spent wrapped up in her sheets. “I-I get that.”
Eddie blinks, expecting more of a push-back. “So, dad. I met this girl.” Oh, that explains it. “She’s…” the smile that lands on Dylan’s face is peaceful, and Eddie feels both curious and reassured. “Anyway. I wanted to bring her over for dinner to introduce her. Is that okay?”
A firm hand lands on Dylan’s shoulder, bringing him for a hug. “Of course, bud. When did you want to bring her over?”
“Friday at 6?”
It’s Wednesday, so that gives you both ample time to unpack and get the house ready for a dinner guest. “Friday works. Bring her over.”
“Hey, do you guys need any more help with the boxes?” He asks, running into the house.
Eddie doesn’t answer as he stands, stunned at the change in his son over the last, what, week?
The next two days make Dylan realize although he was in a much forgiving mood, he’s going to need to move out and fast. Just when he thought the two of you were bad, he didn’t realize how much worse you’d be when you moved in. In hindsight, he wasn’t sure how he didn’t see it coming.
Soon, he texted a friend he knew who was looking for another apartment about maybe moving in together after realizing your moans were not coming from your bedroom as he grabbed his keys and booked it for the front door.
You were on Eddie’s laundry room floor, wrapped in his arms, with only your shirt around your torso and his hair halfway out of its ponytail. You were still in the middle of recovering; Eddie edged you twice before finally letting you finish. “Did you hear the front door close?” Eddie asks, still breathing heavily as he does.
“N-no.” You gasp, moving your head up to face him, his chest hair tickling your chin. “Were we that loud?”
Eddie laughs, letting a thumb pet your face lightly. “Have you ever tried to be quiet, sweetheart?”
You shut him up with a kiss, slippery, but filled to the brim with everything you had. “Shut up.”
“I love you.” He mutters as you wrap yourself in his arms, and you whisper it back into his chest. “We do have company coming over, so we should probably finish unpacking.”
You groan lightly, but Eddie takes your hands and forces the two of you onto your feet, your knees lightly buckling. “I have so much stuff! There’s so much left to unpack.”
“Oh, I’m sure unpacking yourself into the second half of the walk-in is so hard, baby. C’mon, I’ll help you out.”
Again, Eddie’s house looks humble from the outside, but it was nothing to snark at. As he made more money, he slowly upgraded and renovated instead of just moving into a bigger house. The one upgrade that wasn’t really for him, but a constant reminder of what he lost, was the his-and-hers closet he had made for his ex, something she only enjoyed for six months before leaving him. He was excited to see your dresses, skirts, pants, and underwear in his closet, and especially your smell. Basically, he was excited for your invasion of the house.
You walk over to his–your–room where there are still boxes sitting, waiting to be unpacked. You start unpacking the one labeled dresses/skirts. As you start laying out a pile, separating the skirts you knew you weren’t gonna wear from the ones you would, Eddie sidled up beside you, pulling one you knew looked good on you up from the pile you weren’t gonna wear. “Hey, hey. Why haven’t I seen you in this one?”
You hesitate in your answer, pulling two more dresses out before answering. “Dylan fucked me while I wore that.” You admit, and he drops it immediately. He pulls another one up, hands moving over the silky blue fabric. Damn that one looked great on you. “That one, too.”
He drops it unceremoniously, hands moving to his hips. “Which ones hasn’t he touched you in?”
You put your hands on the much smaller, less appealing pile. “These.”
Eddie sighs, scratching his head. “Alright. We’re going shopping.” He announces, placing the pile of your old ‘rejects’ onto the floor.
“Huh?” You ask him, not sure you heard him correctly.
“Yep. Just leave all the clothes in a pile right there, and on Saturday I’m taking you shopping.”
“Baby, I work Saturday.”
“So call in.”
After Eddie helps you settle in for the next day and a half, you spend a good portion of your Friday in the kitchen, working in tandem to make supper together. You place plates at the dining room table Eddie and Dylan barely used, straighten up the napkins and the utensils when Eddie comes from behind you, and you feel his cock press right up against your ass. You grind back into it, closing your eyes and whimpering.
“Ed, they’ll be here in like,” you let out a sigh, “half an hour.”
He turns you, giving you a dirty kiss and gripping your hips harshly. “Then we better get moving.” He slips your dress up your hips and your underwear down.
“Hmm…take off your pants.”
He slips his cock in, bending you over the table, making you gasp. “Already off, baby.”
-
Dylan pulls up in his truck, now having to park in the same spot you did in the street since you took over his spot on the driveway. “So, this is my house.”
“For three more weeks?” Maya asks, teasing him.
He lets their hands intertwine, leading her to the door. “I did grow up here.”
“Yet your dad is kicking you out.” She says, eyes narrowed.
“No, not kicking me out…” He drifts off, when Maya’s green eyes silently ask him, he dismisses it. “I’ll tell you later. C’mon.” He unlocks the front door, and as soon as it’s open, a very peculiar, very annoying sound is heard echoing in the house.
“Fuck, Ed, oh shit.”
Maya’s eyes go wide, it takes her a second longer to understand what they were listening to than it did for Dylan. Dylan shuts the front door, shoving his hand into his pocket for his phone. He dials his dad right away. “…Hello?” Eddie asks after three rings.
Dylan puts him on speaker. “Dad, wrap it up, we’re here.”
“Shit, sorry. Give us five—” the sound of your giggles interrupts him, “sorry, ten minutes. W-we’ll call you.”
He hangs up.
Maya’s face is the picture-perfect expression of what the fuck. “Dyl, when you said your family dynamic is odd…”
“I meant it. C’mon, let’s go for a walk to the corner store.”
Maya is taken aback, but she easily falls in line as Dylan holds his hand out for her. “Can’t believe the first thing I heard from your dad was that.”
“Darling, I have never meant it more than I have right now.” Dylan assures her, and she can see how much he means it in his brown eyes. “My dad has met my girlfriends in worse situations. Just be glad we didn’t see anything…’cause that was not coming from their bedroom.”
-
Eventually, you had to go upstairs to find a new dress to wear, Eddie having completely soiled it during your tryst as he phoned Dylan to let them know they were in the clear. Turns out, the two of you had time blindness when it came to one another, because neither of you were even close to done when Dylan had called.
As you climb down the stairs, there’s a knock on the door, and Eddie meets you there in time to open it to face Dylan and his new girlfriend. It was an intriguing feeling, opening the door to Dylan while Eddie’s arm was behind your back. Like a couple welcoming their son home. It was…bizarre to say the least. “Hey, sorry about—”
“It’s fine, dad. Rather not talk about it.” Dylan insists, his arm around a pretty redhead.
“Sure. Come on in.”
They step in, Maya taking a look around at the place as she does. “Maya, this is my dad and his girlfriend, Y/N. Guys, this is Maya.”
You weren’t used to Dylan being suddenly so cool with you and Eddie being together. He’s never out loud said that you were his dad’s girlfriend before without rolling his eyes or gagging. Whatever he had with Maya seemed to bring him some peace.
Thank god, you didn’t know if you could handle more eye rolls from Eddie’s 25-year-old teenage son. “Maya! Nice to meet you.” You hold your hand out to her, which she accepts graciously.
You remember meeting Eddie as a father to Dylan, and while your thoughts were occupied, whatever you were expecting for Dylan’s dad, it certainly wasn’t Eddie. You could see it clear in her face she wasn’t expecting this metalhead, either.
“Hi, Mr. Munson, nice to meet you.” She extends her hand to Eddie, and Eddie just about loses his mind.
“Ew. Don’t. Call me Eddie. Please.” Eddie gags, the same reaction he had when you addressed him that way when you first met.
“Oh. Sorry. Nice to meet you, Eddie.”
Eddie smiles back, purposefully dressing himself down as a parental figure. You could tell he was poising himself differently for them. Whether it was self consciousness over the last time he met a girlfriend, or making it clear to Dylan he had no plans for a second contender, it did the job.
“Alright, the dining room is this way.” You extend your hand out down the hall, leading the way out of a somewhat awkward situation.
The four of you sit at the table, both men at the heads of the table while you and Maya sit across from one another. Eddie picks up the salad bowl, plating himself quickly and handing it over to you. “So, Dylan. Tell us how you and Maya met.”
They both start the story, eager to share. “Oh, can I tell, Dyl? You always get to.”
“Fine by me.”
Maya giggles softly before facing you and Eddie. “Well, my best friend sort of ditched me to tag along to guys’ night, and I refused to be ditched, so I got myself ready and ended up being fashionably late. When she invited me, I was already done for the night, pajamas and all but I got dressed up out of pure spite.” You chuckle, that’s something Bethany would do. “I got to the club, and suddenly I saw Dylan, and I didn’t want to talk to anyone else for the rest of the night.” She looks over to him, her eyes soft and her pink lips in a sweet smile. “He just drew me right in. We talked for so long we didn’t even realize it was time for last call.”
“Wow.” You comment, taking the last bowl in rotation from Eddie’s hands, the stir-fry vegetables. “Sounds like you guys have a great connection.” You look at Dylan at the last word, hoping he receives your message.
“Oh, we truly do.” Maya grins, Dylan shooting a wink at her in response.
Eddie grabs your hand under the table, and you hold it, petting at the tough skin and colliding with his rings.
“Our first date was incredible.” Maya mentions off-hand but doesn’t elaborate. If it was anything like your first date with Eddie, you knew better than to pry further. “So Dylan told me how you guys met, tell me about that.”
You and Eddie share a look of surprise at how casually she mentions it. You weren’t expecting her to know yet, in fact you were wondering if Dylan was going to tell her at all. Eddie lets out a chuckle. “A shitshow, let’s just say. When Dylan found us, it just became real messy in here.”
Unfortunately, Eddie missed the continuous waving Dylan was doing across the table to stop, please!
“How would meeting online make things messy?” Maya asks, the story Eddie had just told her and the story Dylan explained not exactly lining up.
“What?” Eddie asks, now unsure himself.
Your hand meets your mouth in understanding, facing Dylan with his head in his own hands. “Baby, I don’t think he told her, yet.”
“Nope.” Dylan musters out, annoyed.
“Oh.”
“Can someone tell me what’s going on?” Maya asks, watching everyone’s facial expressions one by one.
Dylan sighs, not ready to explain this part. “They didn’t meet online. Remember, my ex? The one who cheated on me?”
Maya rolls her eyes. “Of course I remember that bitch.” She says, giving you a look that says, ‘am I right’.
Dylan sighs, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Uh, Maya?”
“Hmm?”
“That’s her.” He says, pointing to you. “She cheated with my dad.”
Maya looks at you, dumbfounded, as you wave with a tight smile on your face. Being called that cheating bitch behind your back was certainly a new development from him. Not the…greatest feeling in the world. She looks to Eddie, who isn’t smiling, somewhat insulted on your behalf, but gives a friendly wave nonetheless.
“O-oh.”
“I said my family dynamic is different, didn’t I?”
“I thought you meant with how young she is…”
“There’s that…and there’s this. It used to hurt me a lot more, but honestly, since I met you, I don’t really feel that pain anymore.” He says to her. “I wish we could’ve had this conversation in private, but I guess I didn’t warn them.” A new hardness reaches Maya’s eyes as she looks at you, and you’re slightly taken aback by it. “Don’t be mad at them, because I’m not anymore. Well, mostly anyway. My dad said when he met her that he had to know everything about her or he was going to lose his mind.” You look to Eddie, and he winks at you slyly as you mouth the words I love you to him. “I used to think that was bullshit… But when I met you, Maya, I felt the same way, and I realized I couldn’t blame them for pursuing it if it was half as strong as what I felt when I saw you.”
The ice in Maya’s stare all melts the gloss in her eyes. “That’s still super messed up.”
“One hundred percent.” Dylan looks over to you and Eddie, and you’re wondering if the two of you were supposed to leave the table and give them privacy. “But now…they look good together. They’re good for one another. She puts this smile on his face that I never get to see anymore, and she seems more happy with him than she ever was with me.”
Your phone buzzes in your chair under your thigh. A text from Eddie. For the record, no one feels as strongly for anyone as I do for you. No one ever will.
You look at him and he nods once, his lips in a firm line. Your hands reach for his, interlocking with his. “Maya, I know you didn’t mean to but I would appreciate you not calling her a bitch.” Eddie tells her, parent voice on. “Now that we have all that out of the way, Maya, tell us what you do for work.”
-
Maya was a peach, and she seemed great for Dylan. As she helped clear the table she asked Dylan a question and it led to him announcing he was moving out. Out loud, Eddie gave him a proud hug, telling him it was a great idea.
To you, Eddie pumped his fist in celebration. As you washed the dishes that night, insisting Dylan and Maya go enjoy a movie on the couch, Eddie comes up behind you, wrapping his arms around you. “When Dylan finally moves out, I’m fucking you on every surface in this house. I might just tell you to stay naked for easier access.” He leaves a wet kiss on your neck, and you’re left to imagine the possibilities as he adjusts himself while clearing the rest of the table.
True to his word, as Saturday dawns, Eddie wakes you up two hours before you start work and tosses your phone to call in sick for it. You text your manager at his request, and as soon as you hit send, Eddie sends you to his bathroom to get ready for a shopping day. In your first outfit, a pair of shorts and an oversized sweater, Eddie looks up and down at you exasperated and tells you to go get all dressed up and put some makeup on.
When your hands land on your hips at this he backtracks hard. “Of course you can wear what you want, baby! I just know that you love to get all dressed up, and I thought it would be fun for you. That’s all. We’re going to be trying on lots of clothes and I want my girl feeling her best.”
Okay, he has a point. An hour passes by, Eddie moving around you as he gets dressed up himself, less dramatic than his date night outfit, but dressed up all the same. As you finish, a wing on your eye, he comes behind you, looking over your shoulder for something. “You know I used to wear eyeliner all the time?”
“I…no?” You stutter, turning to face him.
“Might put some on today.” He mutters, slightly teasing you.
“If you don’t want to scare the general public, maybe we’ll save it for a date night, Ed.” You yank the pencil away from him, terrified that if you look away for one second, he’ll go overboard.
“Not even a little on my water line?” He asks, and you suddenly realize that yes, he does want some makeup for the day.
“I don’t see why not.” You shrug.
Now you walk hand in hand in the largest mall in town, starting the journey down the large aisle, leading Eddie. But eventually, Eddie ends up leading you, knowing exactly which stores he wants to go to. In the first store he takes you to, you look around the racks timidly, putting away anything you see over 20 bucks. In less than five minutes, Eddie comes by with a pile of clothes in his arms. “I’m gonna get a dressing room started, ok?” He pauses, noticing the 45 dollar dress you just put back. “Ooh, can you hand me that?”
“No, it’s too much.” You insist, looking at the large pile of clothes he has. You thought he meant like, three or four items at the most.
“I didn’t ask how much it was, sweetheart. Hand it over.” He tells you, to which you do. Only five minutes later, as you have only picked out two or three more dresses yourself, does he swing by and tug you to the biggest dressing room, the walls decorated with clothing.
“I-I’m not trying all of this on, am I?” You look around, it would take you at least an hour, and that’s if you hurried.
“Yep. And you’re showing me every piece.” He says, before closing the door on your stunned face.
“Eddie, this is way too much.”
“No complaining, just show me the first one!” he yells to you, no real bark behind his command.
The first dress you wear was a bit revealing, an open back, up to your thighs with a cowl neckline that shows cleavage. He smiles at you, leaning his elbows onto his knees in the seat offered in the dressing room. “Nice… Do a spin.” You roll your eyes, spinning for him slowly and timidly. He whistles lowly. “Man, I’m good. Next!”
He asked for a spin in everything you modeled for him until he didn’t need to, you did it for him. With each new piece, you were learning to not care if you were in a store with him, posing for him as he assessed each piece. Some you thought looked decent on you, he put in the no pile, while others you thought were a sure no, he put in the yes. He told you ultimately, it was your decision and if you felt uncomfortable, you could put one in the no pile, but he knew your body better than anyone. If he insisted it looked good, it must’ve looked good.
At the last piece you put on, he can’t seem to decide, asking an attendant for her opinion. She says she thinks the shirt looks amazing on you but isn’t sure about the style of pants. “Yeah, I chose them just to see if you’d wear it.” You shook your head no, feeling uncomfortable in the business type pants. “Cool. Get dressed in your clothes, we have more stores to hit up.” You toss the shirt to him after yanking it off, and by the time you make your way to the register, the attendant is already handing over two oversized bags to him.
“Eddie, this is enough clothes, I really don’t need anymore!” You insist as he directs you to a store only three spaces over.
As soon as you walk in, they see the big bags Eddie’s carrying and immediately offer their assistance. Eddie rolls his eyes, knowing he only ever gets the star treatment if he’s walking around with the occasional designer bag. (He likes their underwear). “Well, I don’t know if you noticed, but the women’s side of our closet is huge, and you didn’t have nearly enough clothes to fill it anyway.”
Our closet. You’re so fixated on the use of the word our that you don’t realize he’s waiting for you to talk. “Doesn’t mean I need more.”
“Oh, that’s exactly what it means!” He turns to the employee who’s been following him around and hands her the bags. “Be a dear and hold on to these, will ya?” He turns back to you, resting one hand on the rack beside him and staring down at you intensely. “Baby. I want to spoil you. Let me. Please! Pick out some clothes you want, I’ll pick some out, too, and you can try them on.”
“You’ve spoiled me so much already!” You insist, gulping at the sincerity in his eyes. “You’re all I could ever ask for.”
“That’s exactly why I have to spoil you.” He retorts, placing a gentle kiss on your lips. “I love you. Let me show you how much. I have a stupid amount in savings. I kind of want to chuck some out just to keep me humble.”
You giggle at this, finally, fully giving in to his madness.
Madness, it is. As you go from store to store, he gets about two more bags full from each one, and you’re sure some of these outfits will never see the light of day after you see how he looks at you in them. About ten percent will just be something you put on for about two seconds before he takes it off you. He’s buying dresses he knows he’ll be the only person to ever take them off or see you in them.
At one point, he runs back to his truck to put the eight bags he got tired of carrying around away, coming back to meet you in the store he left you in. It wasn’t much of a clothing store, but you had a basket of things you were planning to buy for yourself. Earrings, a knick knack for your desk, a cute notebook and the like. (There was a shirt you found for Eddie that you got just for the hell of it.) You're waiting in line, and you’re digging through your purse for your wallet when Eddie comes behind you, wallet out, card in the machine. “I—”
“Baby. Your money is useless today. Let me.”
You roll your eyes, and the cashier’s wide eyes at his pet-name for you catches your eye, a laugh escaping you. “Yeah, sorry. Guess I forgot to mention my boyfriend is also in his 40s.” You giggle, having just gushed about how Eddie was spoiling you to him.
“What? 40s? I’m clearly in my 20s.” Eddie asks, acting offended.
The poor cashier looks genuinely frightened, holding up his hands in surrender. “He’s joking. He is. Likes to make people squirm.”
“Oh I love to make you squirm—”
“Eddie!” You berate him, yanking him out of the store as he lets out a bout of laughter. He catches his breath, still laughing as you cross your arms, waiting impatiently for him to stop.
“Sorry, sweetheart, you made it too easy! C’mon, two more stores, then we can grab food.”
“Can I pay for food?” You ask, holding his hand.
Eddie smiles, petting your hand with his thumb. “Of course.”
The second to last store he brings you to is an underwear store. Eddie lets you do all the picking, following closely behind and offering any commentary when you ask for it. For once, he doesn’t insist that you model for him, claiming that just seeing you go through the lacier drawers of panties was torture enough. You walk out with a wardrobe’s worth of new underwear, bras, and a little bit of lingerie. It was the first time you were there to see the total, your eyes widening as Eddie takes out his card.
He smirks at your stunned expression. “Oh, this isn’t even the highest bill, sweetheart.” The transaction goes through and the kind lady behind the desks offers the bags to him. “This isn’t even half of it.”
The bill was at about 700 dollars, so the very idea drove you insane that he had already collected every receipt and refused to let you see them.
He brings you to one last store, wall to wall, covered in clothes. He goes a little ham this time, and you notice he focuses on basics. Sweatpants, sweaters, shorts, and under shirts. There’s one thing he chooses that has you struggling to get the zipper up, and eventually you call out for him for help after a good five minutes of fumbling .
He opens the curtain delicately so as to not reveal anything, and you look at him helplessly as your hand can’t reach the zipper sitting low on your ass. His fingers are light to the touch, as one hand rests on your shoulder, one on the zipper as it goes up to your neck, your hair held by your hands. You can’t help the shiver that runs through you as your hair curtains down around your neck, and you turn to face him, holding your hands out to silently ask him what he thought.
What does he think? He thinks that this fucking dress looks so good on you that it would be a crime to get you to start trying on those shorts and sweaters. Hell, you knew your size, you were probably good to go. It was much less revealing than any dress you tried on, a number he’ll probably get you to wear on your next date. He couldn’t help himself, surrounded by the privacy of the small room, he leans in to kiss you sweetly, one hand going up to frame your neck. “Baby.” He mutters, his voice sounding desperate. “You look…fucking gorgeous.”
You smile into it, your hand tracing the seam of his shirt along his torso. “Thanks. Help me out of it? I still need to try on all these clothes.”
His tongue swipes across your bottom lip, surprising you. A slight whimper escapes you as he backs you into the wall against a few clothing articles hanging there. “I will absolutely help you out of this dress.” He says, his voice husky and a touch of arousal lands in your underwear as you realize why. “But then I’m going to get my cock in you.”
“In-in here?” You ask, highly aware you’re in a public space.
“Mmhmm. Be quiet and no one will suspect a thing.” he says, hand slipping under the skirt of the dress to start palming at your folds over your panties. You whimper at the touch into his mouth, focusing all your energy on not alerting the kind sales lady that you were hooking up in her dressing room. “Oh, good girl, keeping herself quiet.”
“It’s…it’s hard.” You whimper, the light touches over your panties not enough, but still causing more arousal.
“So am I.” Eddie chuckles, watching your face as he teases you. He slips the hand into your panties, letting them drop on the floor. “Oh, so wet, huh?” He asks you, eyebrows furrowed as he plays with the slick on your folds.
“Mmhmm.”
“Does daddy buying all the pretty clothes make you all hot, baby?” He asks, voice in your ear and fingers rubbing at your clit gentle, but enough to start you to your destination. You nod your head, because on some level, this was a big turn on for you. “Oh, you horny little slut.”
“Good girl…” You whimper, and Eddie leans back from your shoulder. “Good girl. Please?” You ask him, the slut shaming wasn’t doing it for you.
“Oh, you wanna be called a good girl, huh? Daddy’s good girl?” You nod, your eyes closing as he starts to rub at your clit faster.
“Feels…feels good, Daddy…”
“Daddy’s gonna make you cum, and since you’re a good girl you’re not gonna make a fucking sound. Okay?” You nod, holding a whimper in your throat from the finger he slides into your heat. “Oh she’s close.” He mutters to himself, placing gentle kisses on your neck. “Fall apart on my fingers so I can fuck you, my good girl.”
Your mouth is open in a silent scream, an orgasm shaking through you as you wither against the dressing room wall.  
“Oh, that’s my good girl, such a good listener. Now, turn around and hold on to those hooks.” You do as he says, and as you brace yourself with your hands awkwardly against the hooks decorated with hangers, he zips the dress off you, lifting it over your head and nearly forgetting to muffle his own moan when he sees you aren’t wearing a bra. He lets his pants fall around his calves, and as his cock pushes you, you let your jaw open and eyes close, doing everything you could not to moan out loud.
He slowly bucks into you, and you close your eyes and lean against the wall headfirst while the scent of store clothes invades your senses. Soon, Eddie leans forward, forcing your torso up against his back as he places his ringed hand around you like a necklace. He kisses at the skin he can reach sweetly, eyes open as he watches your reaction to everything he does to you.
While the prospect of being caught by someone was hot, Eddie found himself watching for your visual reactions than listening for your audible ones. Hmm. He didn’t realize he had begun to rely on them. “How’s Daddy’s cock?”
“G-good.” You whisper, leaning into his chest with your head back against his shoulder.
“Gonna cum in you.” He mutters. He starts fucking into you a little harder, and it has to be perfectly timed because if he went all the way in, the sound of his balls against your pussy would be a dead giveaway.
“How’s everything in there?”
“Speak.” Eddie commands you, and you have to tear yourself from outer space for a moment.
“Great, thank you!”
“Just a reminder we try not to encourage two people in one dressing room.”
“She was just needing help with a zipper. Almost done.” Eddie pipes out, sounding relatively normal for someone seconds away from cumming.
“If you need any help or sizes, let us know.”
 “Thanks…” Shit, that sounded out of breath.
“Cum in me.” You whisper, and Eddie does just that, slowly fucking his way through his orgasm, his cheeks flushed, shirt clinging onto the sweat.
You nearly protest as he takes himself out and tucks himself back into his pants. At this point, you were so turned on you kind of wanted to blow him while you had him in the room. You hold his face in your hands and connect your foreheads. “Is it bad I still want more?” You mutter under your breath.
Eddie swears softly, his boner fighting harshly against his slacks. “Fuck. No, I do, too.” He tugs your naked self into his arms, kissing your hair softly. “But…she was suspicious. Unless we want to get kicked out, we should quit while we’re ahead.”
“Can I blow you when we get home?” You ask him, turning to grab your own clothes off the floor.
Eddie chuckles, shaking his head as he grabs the clothes scattered around the dressing room. “Abso-fucking-lutely.”
It took multiple trips from Eddie’s truck to bring in all the bags. You truly didn’t realize how many pieces of clothing he had bought you until you saw it all scattered on the closet floor, all ready to be reorganized. Eddie starts hanging them, and you notice the outline of his cock in his slacks. He was still throbbing.
“Can I?” You ask, sitting pretty on your knees and looking up at him.
“Fuck, I’m never gonna say no to that.” Eddie answers, placing a hand under your chin.
You undo his pants, giving him a hungry look as his cock springs free. “You’re still hard?” You ask, knowing you’ve gotten food at the food court and walked around the mall a bit more before coming home.
“Mmhm.” You smile, jerking him lazily as you eye the length hungrily. You have the idea to tease him more, but the need to feel the weight of his cock on your tongue is too much. Eddie swears loudly as you take him in your mouth, gripping onto the center console for accessories and underwear. “Fuck”
You slowly bob your head up and down, staring up at him through your eyelashes as you relax your throat and allow your nose to meet his stomach. His hands skim through your hair, moving your head lightly, and again, you find it ridiculously easy to submit to him.
Eddie is uncharacteristically quiet, head thrown back in bliss as he feels the spit gather at his base. His stomach starts to tighten up a little bit and under your hands, his thighs are tense. Somehow it spells out to you he’s close.
You prepare yourself, moving your head faster on your own accord, opening your eyes at him again to watch for his reaction as you double down. A goddamn whimper escapes his throat as you continue, and suddenly it’s your goddamn mission to make him make that sound again. “Fuck, baby. Fuck…” Without any warning, the warm salty taste of his cum hits your tongue and you moan around him as he rides through his orgasm.
For once, as you wipe your mouth, you can tell he’s the one that needs recovery. You move to your feet, waiting for him to catch his breath. “Need some water?” You ask him, somewhat joking.
“The fuck was that?” He asks, his face in awe as he looks at you.
You give a cheeky and quick little kiss to the hand on your cheek. “Wanted to make you feel good.”
“Jesus Christ—” he tugs you into a hug, habitually kissing your hair. “How did I get so lucky?”
“Uh Ed.” You push lightly on his chest to get out of the hug, giving him a look of disbelief. You look gesture around the closet to the half of the clothes still not put away. “How are you the lucky one?”
Eddie’s face breaks into a wide smile, his dimples prominent, his smile lines deep. “You keep thinking that, darling.” He laughs, tugging you back into his arms.
As you stand there against his chest, relaxing into him with your eyes closed, the doorbell rings. “I’ll get it. You put away my clothes since you know where everything goes.”
“I did design this closet.” He retorts, pointing a finger at you.
You walk down the stairs to the front door, seeing a tall figure facing away through the smart glass. You open the door to a gorgeous set of brown locks, perfectly coiffed. The figure turns around, and clearly doesn’t expect to see you standing there. “Hey, Ed- whoa.” You recognize his face, but you aren’t sure where from. You subtly fix your hair; suddenly aware you had just given head to your boyfriend. “Uh, sorry, little lady. Is Eddie here?”
“He’s upstairs in the closet. Can I help you?”
The stranger smiles kindly, and you notice the freckles on his face are like constellations. “Oh sorry! I told him I’d be coming through town, but I forgot to say when. I’m Steve, Steve Harrington.”
-
Thank you so much for reading! I love to read your comments, replies, and reblogs. As always, reblogging is the best way to support your fic writers on tumblr.
Taglist: @pinkcowracing @yourthebrokengirl @skrzydlak @thirddeadlysin @sammararaven @bebe07011 @prettylovley @josephquinncore @forget-you-morelike-fuck-you
Taglist for Really Drives Me Mad: @yunnie-f1 @hollster88 @corrodedcoffincumslut @daisyridleyyyy @daniellabrandt @lail1010 @alicentswife @names-were-taken @bl4ckt00thgr1n
723 notes · View notes
Text
Ten Things I Like About You (one-shot)
Synopsis: There is one rule for Y/N to accept Jason Carver's advances: if he wants to go out with her, the jock has to name ten things he likes about the resident 'Freak'Eddie Munson. Can he do it?
Pairing: Eddie Munson x fem!Reader
Warnings: swearing, Jason being a dick as usual, nothing else I can think of (minimally edited)
Genre: fluff mainly
Word count: 3085
DO NOT REPOST OR TRANSLATE MY WORKS ON OTHER PLATFORMS WITHOUT SPECIFIC WRITTEN PERMISSION!!!
Tumblr media
Y/N Y/L/N was an enigma at Hawkins High. Not unpopular by any means, but didn’t run directly in with the ‘it’ crowd either. She was friends or at least friendly with most of the cliques, but even with the ones she didn’t interact with, she didn’t bully or look down on them, simply coexisted without any problems. Eddie thought it was probably why he’d started to crush on the girl.
Typically, she’d be sitting by the cheerleader table, her and the Queen of Hawkins High Chrissy Cunningham being as thick as thieves unless Nancy Wheeler had taken some time off from their newspaper to come and eat a bit, but starting from a couple of months ago, from time to time, he’d find the girl by his Hellfire Club table. She wouldn’t bother them, wouldn’t talk, wouldn’t even look at them, simply sat down and started to push around the sludge-like mashed potatoes or scrutinize the way-too-orange looking mac‘n’cheese on her plate.
At first, Eddie wanted to snark at her, wanted to tell her to get lost, but the day Y/N had first taken a seat at the far end of their table, he’d noticed how she’d closed her eyes for a moment, took in a deep breath and exhaled. And then, when she did open her eyes – it was like a giant boulder had come off her shoulders. And he understood it. Maybe not exactly what or why she felt that way, but he did, and Eddie’d be damned if it didn’t make his heart skip a beat at the thought, she felt safe around him and his bunch, safe enough to let down her guard like that.
Slowly it had become a routine. Seemingly whenever Y/N had too much of something, she’d take a now unofficially assigned seat at the right end of their table and just sit there. She’d throw them a small smile and a wave, then pull out her Walkman and put the headphones on, disconnecting her from the surrounding world, and Eddie had sort of taken it upon himself to make sure Y/N enjoyed her forty minutes of peace unbothered. Maybe he’d sometimes let Robin Buckley or Chrissy take her out of the zen state, but for anyone else, Eddie would give the most menacing and crazy look he could muster, so the person tucked their tail between their legs and turned the other way, leaving the girl alone.
This was one of those days where Y/N needed to get away from the crowd, it seemed, as Eddie watched how her shoulders and back tensed more and more with every second the guys from the basketball team spoke around her while she sat next to Chrissy, before something in her snapped. She placed a gentle palm on the other girl’s hand, squeezed it and stood up, taking her food tray with her, as well as her book bag.
Loud “oh, come on, Y/N!” followed her, but she didn’t even look back, rather gritted her teeth so as to seemingly not let out whatever it was, she wanted to actually say.
With a deep sigh, she dropped the bag on the ground, and a bit more carefully placed the red plastic tray on the table as to not let the questionable meal of the day slip off.
She was wearing a pair of light baggy jeans, some graphic tee of an obscure-looking indie movie printed on, tucked behind the waistband and cinched with a black belt while a knitted patchwork cardigan kept her warm in the still somewhat cool spring winds.
Y/N looked comfortable, and that was also one of the things Eddie liked about her. She didn’t really follow the newest fashion trends. Sure, her clothes were mostly styled in a way that reflected whatever was in at that moment, but she did it in her own way. Eddie was pretty much sure, he’d seen that cardigan on her all throughout high school. She didn’t hide behind clothes to create a persona, she used that and make-up, or on some days none of it, to enhance who she already was.
“Shit,” Y/N muttered under her breath, bringing Eddie out from his thoughts as her fork clattered below the table.
Grumbling, she put her Walkman away to lean down and grab it, but the freshman Mike, who’d Eddie had recruited for the D&D club, beat her to it.
“Here,” the boy mumbled, and Y/N flashed him a grateful smile.
“Thanks. But I probably should get a new one. I don’t think I’m brave enough to put anything in my mouth that’s touched the cafeteria floor. Don’t want to be the cause of the new Black Plague or some shit.” She snorted. “Besides, I’ve made it to the end of my senior year. It’d be quite pathetic to kick the bucket like a couple of months before that.”
“Not as pathetic as repeating the senior year, over and over again,” Eddie chuckled from the head of the table, but Y/N didn’t laugh along with him at his self-deprecating joke.
“Just because someone’s not academically skilled, doesn’t mean they’re pathetic.” She was frowning. “I’ve heard you play, Eddie. You’re amazing. I have no doubt that when you get out of this hellhole, you’ll do big things. Just… just don’t give up yet, don't write yourself off like that.”
Eddie was one hundred percent sure he was blushing like a madman, but the soft smile she gave him made his heart soar at her kind words, let alone at the fact she had heard him play and had said he was talented. The man was just about ready to combust from the love in his chest.
Truth be told, Eddie was also academically inclined, it’s just that whatever the school threw his way couldn’t hold his attention for more than a second. He was excellent at math because of D&D, but when it came to finding the x on a Pythagorean theorem, he was lost because there was no intrigue behind it. He was an amazing storyteller, but his grammar wasn’t the best, and his handwriting was even worse, so most of the time even he couldn’t figure out what he’d written on the page, getting himself a fat D- for the unintelligible scribbles.
“Shit,” Mike muttered, bringing Eddie out from his daydreams and making him look up at the freshman, but his eyes were trained somewhere over Y/N’s shoulder.
Slowly he followed as she glanced backwards, and groaned as they noted Jason Carver walking up the Hellfire table, the whole club growing stiff and frowns etching themselves onto their faces.
“Not one single day of fucking peace,” Y/N mumbled under her breath and rolled her eyes.
“You okay?” Eddie leaned closer to her over the table. “Just give the word and I’ll tell him to fuck right off from here. I have no problems making a scene.”
“No.” She sighed, stabbing the fork into the food with a ferocity, Eddie could only imagine it was someone’s face. Hopefully that someone's that was sauntering their way. “Don’t. The shit he does and says to you is bad enough, so please don’t add any fuel to the fire on my account. Sorry, by the way.” She grimaced. “For all of that.”
Eddie shook his head. “It’s not like you’re saying those things, which by the way, thank you.”
Y/N frowned even more. “You shouldn’t be thanking me for being a decent person. Fuck how low has the bar gotten exactly?”
His snort made her lips quirk up in a smile, but all of it was wiped away when Jason cleared his throat. 
For a moment she closed her eyes and took in a deep breath, as if gathering her self-composure, before turning around in her seat with a raised brow. “Can I help you, Carver?”
“I just - uh - look.” Jason gave Y/N the most charming smile he could muster. “I know the guys can be a lot with the teasing, but I actually came here to say that honestly maybe we should do it, you know...”
She looked at him as if he’d grown a second head. “Should what?”
“Go on that date. I mean I think we’d look pretty cute together.”
“Yes, well, some people think hairless mole rats are cute, but you don’t really argue about taste,” Y/N deadpanned and once again Eddie snorted.
Jason threw him a scalding glare. “Something funny, freakshow?”
“Carver,” she snapped. “Seriously?”
The basketball player’s hands balled into fists, but it seemed like he knew throwing a punch at Eddie would be completely counterproductive. “Okay, look.” He averted his eyes to Y/N. “Can you just come back and sit with us? At least away from… them? I know that all of this,” he gestured towards the Hellfire Club. “Is just an act, okay. I know you’re trying to play hard to get, but at least do it with someone of your own status.”
“My own status? Who the fuck do you think we are?” the girl scoffed. “This is high school, Jason, not the Queen’s court.”
“This shit’ll follow you after high school, Y/N.” Jason looked up and down at Eddie as if he was vermin. “I’m just trying to help you make the right choices.”
Honestly, Eddie wasn’t even listening to what the asshole was saying as he watched in fascination as a plan developed in her head. 
“You know what, Jason, you are right,” she said. “I will go out on a date with you, and I will never talk to anyone at this table. In fact, I'll never even walk past here again.”
Well, there went any chance Eddie had.
“If…”
Oh.
Y/N’s eyes met his. Eddie gulped, watching her stand up and slowly saunter away. His heart was beating a mile a minute and even though he didn’t have asthma, he was sure this was how an asthma attack felt, breaths coming in shorter and shorter as Y/N stood behind him.
For a second there was non-verbal communication between the two, as Y/N asked with her eyes if he was alright with her touching him, and he gave her a barely-there nod. Then her palms slowly settled on his shoulders before sliding over them and down and down his chest until she had her chin perked in the crook of his neck, her fingers intertwined right below his pecks, and oh, God, Eddie was gonna pass out.
He was desperately trying not to squirm because if there was one place on his body that was ticklish, it was his neck and collarbones area, but Eddie would stay still like the dead if it kept Y/N’s chin on his shoulder.
She was hugging him, her breaths tickling his neck, as his mind whirred, not even able to process any words coming out of her or Jason’s mouth, the rest of the cafeteria background having turned into white noise. All that existed was Y/N’s scent, and her touch, and her body weight pressing against his back and oh god, oh god, oh god.
“ – isn’t that right, Eddie?” Y/N’s voice invaded his ears and he blinked rapidly to get back to reality.
“What?”
“I said a guy should prove himself to a girl before asking her out, right?”
Eddie swallowed, and nodded, his eyes unable to break from Y/N’s gaze. “Right, yeah. Of course. Definitely. One hundred percent.”
“So then.” Y/N looked at Jason. “Don’t you think you’d have to prove to me I wouldn’t waste my time with you?”
Jason had his arms crossed, glaring at Eddie as he sucked on his teeth, probably trying to figure out a hundred different ways as to how to punch in his nose, but reluctantly looked at Y/N.
“Name your price, Y/L/N.”
“You, Jason Carver, have to name ten nice things about Eddie here. And you have to say them like you mean them.”
Jason let out a laugh, and the rest of the gathered basketball team mimicked him. Eddie hadn't even noticed his goons had gathered to watch the spectacle. “What? I meant something I can actually do.”
“I can start.” Y/N shook her head and smiled as if she was oblivious as to what he’d meant. “But obviously you can’t use my examples, you have to come up with your own. For one.” She turned to the side and looked Eddie directly into his eyes. Yep. He was for sure dead. Had to be. Or definitely was going to be because he wasn’t breathing. Was his heart still working? He wasn’t sure. “I absolutely love how you can play the guitar. I think it’s amazing. It takes dedication and skill to keep up with something like that. And well, I’d say it certainly means you’re good with your fingers, which is an added bonus girls definitely appreciate.”
You know what? If lightning struck him then and there, Eddie would be completely fine by it. Was he a massive virgin? Yes, very much so, he’d never even fingered a girl before, but holy shit, he’d play the guitar until his fingertips bled, if what Y/N said was true, especially if that was her opinion.
“Come on, Y/L/N.” Jason let out a chuckle of disbelief, but Eddie could see he was seething underneath, and it was very much so an enjoyable sight. “Stop playing. Tell me what I actually have to do to get you on a date with me and away from these lowlifes.”
Y/N simply shrugged, pressing her cheek against Eddie’s, pouting as she did so. “What do you mean? I already did – name ten nice things about Eddie. It can be about his looks, what he’s good at, how he’s helped someone – anything. Here’s an easy one – his mind is absolutely brilliant. You have to have amazing imagination to come up with such complex Dungeons & Dragons campaign plots, and I think he’d make an amazing novelist if he put those ideas on paper.”
“He’s a freak.” Jason finally snapped, sneering with as much venom as he could muster. Eddie wouldn’t be surprised if he actually was a snake underneath that skin and hair gel.
Y/N snorted and straightened out, but her palms remained rested on Eddie’s shoulders and he couldn’t help himself but settle his own over hers. Their fingers intertwined and she squeezed his palm in response. He was in heaven.
“And what, you’re not?” Y/N scoffed. “Jason, you’re obsessed with chasing an orange ball around a court like you’re a fucking dog who needs to hear ‘good boy’ every time you almost put it in the hoop. You think you’re so nice and all when you’re the most judgmental piece of shit I know. I asked you to name just ten nice thing about Eddie, and you couldn’t even pull some bullshit one out of your ass, but I definitely can name ten things I hate about you starting with the fact that you’re so high up your own ass you can’t take ‘no’ for an answer. I don’t care about sitting next to you, let alone going on a date with you. The fact that you can’t see beyond your own prejudices, makes me know I did the right choice by telling you to go screw your hand the first time around.”
“You’ll regret this,” Jason sneered. “I’m trying to save you, can’t you see? You’ve been sitting with them so long it’s started to corrupt you.”
She raised her brow. “Will I? Because from my standpoint my future looks pretty a-okay. And saved from what? A fantasy game? You think an elf is gonna chop my head off in the real world? Or some orc's siren-like voice will lure me to my doom? Get a grip, Carver, and get out of my face before I smash it in for you.”
Jason was absolutely seething, his face flushed red while his chest heaved up and down, throwing one final look at Eddie who had a satisfied smirk on his own. “Just you wait, Y/L/N, and you’ll see the true nature of these – these Devil worshippers. And when you do, don’t come crawling back to us.”
“Jason, if you had the last glass of water on earth and I was on fire, I’d rather be consumed by those Hellish flames you’re afraid of than go near you with a ten-foot pole.”
And just to add the cherry on top, just to piss him off even more Eddie wiggled his fingers in a ‘bye-bye’ motion.
For a moment, Jason stammered, clenching and unclenching his fists as if readying himself for a pounce, but even with the whole basketball team behind him, he’d been humiliated by Y/N already, and if Principal Higgins came in to see a brawl, he'd surely believe the girl's version of the story, mainly because Chrissy Cunningham would a hundred percent stand by her best friend.
Eddie was sure he’d pay for her sticking up for him later, and no doubt Jason would find a way to make Y/N’s life a hell, but for now, they celebrated, as Carver turned on his heel and stalked away, the whole of Hellfire erupting in cheers and whoops.
“I’m so in love with you,” Eddie breathed out and Y/N threw her head back in a laugh. He swore it was the most beautiful sound in the world before he realized he’d said his thoughts out loud.
“Yep, and you said that out loud too.” Her smile was blinding, as she took the offered seat at Eddie’s side one of the boys sliding further, instead of retreating to the one at the end of the table. “But it’s okay. I – uh – I kinda like you too. It’s what made putting Jason in his place double the joy.”
Fuck it. It was high-time he shot his shot. “So, if I asked you out on a date would you tell me to go and screw my hand or would you give me a chance?”
She rested her chin on her palm, giving him a coy smile. “Well, can you name ten things you like about me?” 
Eddie leaned in closer, their noses almost brushing, wide grins on both of their faces. “Baby I have a whole list – would you like to hear it alphabetically or by the dates I noticed them?”
“Your pick, Eddie.”
By the time he walked that graduation stage and flipped Principal Higgins off, he hadn’t even gotten to B yet as the list was ever growing.
So was hers.
Tags (crossed out wouldn’t take):
Everything tags: @palaiasaurus64​ @supernaturalbaesduh​ @thatawkwardlittlefangirl​ @sea040561​ @staryeyedgirl​ @deathbyarabbit​ @m-a-t-91​ @maladaptive-ninja-returns​ @averyrogers83​ @in-the-end-im-still-trash​ @gallifreyansass​ @dewy-biitch​ @avxgers​ @unlikelygalaxygiver​ @magicwithaknife​ @ollyoxenfrees​ @bnhvrdy​ @tvwhoresblog​ @thatkindofgurl​ @sj-thefan​ @lestersglitterglue​ @im-squished​ @strangersstranger​
A/N: :)
P.S. Eddie tags are open if anyone wants to be tagged in future stories, HMU or leave a message under the fic :)
8K notes · View notes
edddimun · 2 years
Text
Fool The Freaks Day
Tumblr media
(not my gif)
Eddie Munson x fem! reader
Summary: Your crush on Eddie was meant to be a secret, but after a little special someone overheard, a sudden secret admirer was up your sleeve. Getting lost in the mystery, you didn’t realise what date was coming up— April Fools.
Trope: Eddie Munson x fem! Reader, frenemies!
Warnings: Swearing, bullying, angst (but there’s fluff), pet-names
WC: 8.5k+
A/N: this is the longest one-shot I’ve written lol but I had this idea in mind for a while! And I think this actually might be my favourite work so far! :) I also apologise if there are any mistakes I have missed!
The corridor overflowed with the annoying babble of kids. Some exchanged smiles and laughter, while others exchanged frowns and glares. You, on the other hand, were lost in your own world, observing Eddie lean against his locker, arms crossed in front of his chest, and his hair falling in front of his face every now and then while talking to Gareth.
“Earth to Y/N,” Dustin flailed his arms in front of your face, retreating you from your trance. Clearing your throat, your eyes averted to Dustin who is clearly irritated.
“Did you even listen to what I said?” A huff of annoyance escaped his lips.
“Yeah. Yeah. Something on Friday?” You repeated, well knowing that you pieced together random words that you vaguely remembered from Dustin’s rambling.
He tightly shut his eyes, face-palming himself as he groaned, “Oh my gos- April Fools next Friday.”
“Didn’t you say this week?”
“No!-“ Dustin loudly shrieked, a little too loudly, “What I was saying while you were making out with Eddie with your eyes, was-“
You harshly slapped your palm against Dustin’s mouth, eyes widened as you quickly snapped your head in every direction possible hoping no one caught on to what Dustin said. No one but Dustin knew about your secret crush on Eddie. The term ‘frenemies’ is what Steve and Robin like to describe your relationship with him, always bickering but in a playful way. Max, Mike and Lucas are just convinced you both absolutely hate each other whilst Nancy and had a theory that deep down you both liked each other but denied it.
“Keep it down knucklehead!” You seethed through gritted teeth, eyes still frantically searching the hallways. From your perspective, no one seemed interested or alerted. The stiffness in your shoulders finally became undone, sighing with relief, you glared daggers into Dustin’s eyes before feeling a wet sensation tickle your palm.
“What is wrong with you?!” You hissed towards the boy.
Sinister giggles left his throat as he watched you rigorously grind your hand against your top, creating heat between the two surfaces.
“I just don’t get why you won’t talk to him ‘normally’,” Dustin quietly asked after his fit. His voice was laced with genuine seriousness, now rapidly changing your displeased mood.
Your lips tightened, glancing between the ground and Dustin, “W-wouldn’t it just be weird?” You asked, looking at him with soft eyes, “I feel like this is our ‘normal’ to talk the way we do. Just argue and make sarcastic comments. Nothing is ever nice or genuine. It’s not like I want it to be that way, I would love to change that— b-but I just don’t know how without looking like an idiot.”
Dustin nodded at your reasonable answer before finally responding, “Maybe you can take it slow.”
“Slow?”
“Yeah. Like smiling for once at him, or not making comments as mean or as sarcastic. Then after a few days, you can actually laugh or even agree at his remarks,” Dustin informed with a smile slowly forming on his face, “T-then your jokes will slowly turn into compliments or even flirty comments, and then you both will start talking nicely, then yo-“
“Okay, okay,” You chuckled out, interrupting Dustin’s ramble with a slight tint of pink painted on your cheeks, “You know—you’ve never let me down Dustin,” you empathised as your hand rested on his shoulder, slightly shaking him.
“What can I say, I’m a man of honour,” His wide smile reached his eyes as he showed off his pearly teeth.
-
“No!” A loud shriek bounced through the hallway, gaining the glares of Jason and Patrick.
“Freaks,” Jason mumbled under his breath, “Anyways, I can’t tonight, Chrissy and I-“
“What I was saying while you were making out with Eddie with your eyes, was-“
Jason’s head whipped towards your direction after the mention of Eddie. Your hand was now masked on Dustin’s mouth as you aggressively mumbled something to the boy.
“Did you hear that?” Patrick snickered to Jason, nudging his shoulder, “The freak likes the freak,” Patrick continued.
The left side of Jason’s lip tugged upwards, a vicious warmth started to warp his mind as his eyes slowly bottled with vengeance.
“You remember the date next Friday?” Jason eerily whispered.
“U-uh,” Patrick stuttered, not recalling anything important on that day, “Not re-“
“April fools,” He cuts him off, finally looking at him in the eyes with a cold-blooded smirk on his face, emitting his bitter intentions.
“It’s fool the freaks day.”
-
If one person who can ever frustrate you as much as Eddie could, it’s Robin.
“For the millionth time Robin! Cherry and Raspberry don’t taste the same!” You exclaimed whilst aggressively twisting the knob of your locker.
“Um. Yes, they do! I don’t get how you don-” This time you weren’t the one to cut her off. As soon as you opened your locker, a folded white piece of paper fell to the ground. Your brows dipped in confusion, looking at Robin and the mysterious paper.
“W-what’s that?” She hesitantly asked. You bent down to grasp the paper, flipping it over and back, as you started to unfold it.
“Hey,
I know this is really weird, but I hope we can get along some time. I always see you in the hallway talking to our friends and I hope one day that’s going to be us.”
“What. The. Fuck.”
A gasp was heard from Robin as her eyes read the note for the tenth time, “Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh!” She repeatedly jumped in the air, “You have a secret admirer!” She squealed out loud.
“N-no. This can’t be for me. Whoever this is probably put it in the wrong locker.” Your eyes traced over the crooked handwriting in black ink, trying to recognise it but couldn’t. Your mind started to ponder whether someone has been showing you more attention or not. But you rarely spoke to anyone other than your main group of friends. Could it be Alex from that math assignment? No. He has a girlfriend. Tristan from music? No. What if it was a girl? Victori-
“Y/N!” A voice abruptly spoke over your thoughts, causing your elbow to violently slam against the metal locker.
“Jesus Dustin!” You loudly hissed as you rubbed your elbow, in hopes the pain will disperse quickly.
Dustin and Robin cackled loudly at your unamused state. That was until his gaze fell on the paper in your clutch, his laughter quickly died down as curiosity took over.
“What’s that?” he questioned, eyes still on the paper.
“N-nothing.” You squeezed the forbidden treasure against your chest, your fingers starting to ache from the tight grasp.
Dustin took a step towards you, a menacing smirk on his face as you took a step back.
“Robin, what’s that?” Dustin looked at Robin with one brow raised.
Robin gives you a do-you-want-me-to-tell-him look. In response, you violently shake your head as you continued to take steps back as Dustin started to retreat closer to you.
“Dustin you better sto-” Your back met something firm and warm, someone's hands now placed on your forearms, keeping you stable.
“I’m so sor-” turning around to apologise, “-ry. Oh.” Your glance flit over the one recognisable outfit before seeing Eddie's devious face.
“Maybe I’m not,” you give him a tight smile, his puckered brow and long face remained silent. You watched his eyes scan your entire body and lock with the holy grail squished against your chest.
“What are you hiding there?”
“Something that is not your business.”
Dustin and Robin step right beside Eddie, “Why are you so nervous?” Eddie teased.
“I’m not nervous. I-It’s just that-I-Um-It’s-”
Eddie chuckled at your flushed expression, “Cat got your tongue?”
“Shut up,” you angrily growled.
He pursed his lips, tucking his hands into his back pockets before his doll eyes focused on yours, “I can’t take a little peak?”
“You’re not special, so no.”
Eddie aggressively slammed his back against the locker as both his hands laid on top of his heart, startling you and the others.
“What if you’re special to me, sweetheart?” He playfully breathed out in offence.
Although you knew he was joking, you felt your heart pulsating. Instead of a ‘fuck off’ or a gag, you decided to change it up a bit.
“Then I’m glad.” A smug smile appeared on your face as you crossed your arms, the note still in your grasp— completely forgetting about it.
Robin’s nose scrunched in utter confusion, wondering whether you were sarcastic or not, whilst a small grin crept up on Dustin’s face as he knew which way you meant it. On the other hand, the tiny mischievous smirk on Eddie’s face did not budge at all, instead, he clicked his tongue and chewed on his bottom lip as he leaned one side of his body against the locker and his arms crossed in front, intently staring into your eyes.
You must admit though. He did look really, really hot right now, and he was standing pretty close to you. Although it was difficult to maintain intimidating eye contact with Eddie, you both still mirrored that same conceited smirk on your lips.
Eddie grunted before quietly muttering “Good.”
Now Dustin is confused if Eddie was being sarcastic or not, you were left slightly dumbfounded not knowing what to say. Eddie then reached his arms out to grab Dustin’s shoulders, not breaking the eye contact at all. You felt blood rushing to your ears, but were glad your hair was covering your tomato ears. Eddie then turned Dustin around before his back faced you and walked away. Your eyes followed their figures disappear into the hallway before averting your gaze back to Robin, whose eyes were bulging out of her sockets.
“What was that?” She blurted.
Your brows furrowed in confusion as you started to play pretend, “What was what?”
“Y-You and Eddie!”
“Literally nothing.”
“No. That was literally something!” She shrieked as her hands grasped your shoulders, “What if it’s him?”
This time you were genuinely perplexed, clueless to what she’s implying, “If he’s what now?”
She brought you closer to her face, “The secret admirer,” Robin whispered.
The warmth of anxiousness seeped into your heart, muting the chatter of the hallway as your consciousness escaped the world, only surrounding you in feelings of doubt and bewilderment.
“It can’t be, Rob,” You reluctantly uttered.
“And why not? You guys actually had a ‘decent’ conversation, so I wouldn’t be surprised if it was him,” She shrugged as she popped her lips.
“I doubt. I was the one that actually responded ‘decently’,” You replied, pointing to yourself.
Robin remarked with a depressing sigh, “But he did too. And plus on the note, it did say ‘our’ friends so?”
“Look Rob, it was probably in the wrong locker okay?” You beckoned with a faint smile.
You walked into Ms O’Donnell’s class, already spotting Jason and Patrick in the back laughing about something. Their laughter came to a halt as they spotted you. You didn’t really think much of it until you saw a pretty pink peony, saturated with hints of white sitting on your desk.
“For fuck’s sake,” you quietly whispered to yourself, mentally groaning in frustration. This couldn’t be a mistake. You sat in your chair and made an effort to come up with potential culprits. If they know your seat in this class, they either attend this class themselves or have friends who do. You scoured the classroom for anyone behaving suspiciously. Amanda scribbled, Lexi gossiped, and Jason and Patrick were quiet while the rest of the students went about their business. The only thing you were aware of about your hidden admirer was that they were friends with your friends.
“Mr Munson, you’re late.”
Eddie's footsteps filled the now-quiet classroom with sound. You glance up, sceptical, and see Eddie making his way to his seat, directly behind you. He offers a half-arsed apology before staring right into your eyes then at the flower, brows raised in obvious perplexity at the flower. You felt this overwhelming tension submerging your figure as your eyes met, you subconsciously groaned, not only because Eddie was suspected of being the secret admirer, but also because of the recent conversation.
Ms O'Donnell's speech was drowned out by your overanalysing thoughts that couldn't seem to let go of this current predicament. It was the way you didn't realise you were so far into your consciousness that you began seeing doubles of everything. You were highly concerned that you had made things awkward between yourself and Eddie, and what also heightened your concern was the note, and now the flower. Dozing off into wonderland, you came to a conclusion that Eddie is not the sort to do corny crap. You were aware that he would just convey his feelings without seeking an alternate means of doing so.
“A flower?”
You jolted from the booming voice in your ear. Clutching your chest, you turned around to face Eddie.
“Is this a thing within the club? Just scaring people out of nowhere?” You irritably scoffed.
Eddie lowly chuckled, “I think we already scare people without meaning to do so.”
You rolled your eyes before turning back around to face the board. A pint of relaxation encompassed your aura, immensely glad there wasn’t awkward tension between you two, though barely was said amongst you both. You were just overthinking things, like usual.
“You’re pretty.”
Your knee harshly struck the desk, you spun your body around as you choked on your spit.
“W-what?” You stammered, eyes as large as an owl.
Eddie was noticeably alarmed by your jarring action as he leaned back. His brows furrowed as he notices your strained demeanour.
“The flower. It’s pretty,” He slowly spoke out a few seconds later in confusion.
“O-Oh. Ye-”
“Y/N! Focus,” O’Donnell’s voice intervened. You mutter an apology, turning back around and sinking in your seat as the legs of embarrassment crawl up your crumbling figure. Mentally slapping yourself, as the intrusive thoughts were the ones to blame.
-
It’s me again.
Did you like the rose yesterday? It’s pretty and reminded me of you.
Ew. This person is cheesy and clearly doesn’t know the difference between flowers. It was a peony, not a rose, dumbass. However, the word 'pretty' stood out to you a lot, ever since class yesterday.
You relive the situation in your memory and instantly try to conjure up images of sunshine and rainbows to conceal and bury the humiliating moment you hoped Eddie had forgotten. Wait. Eddie described the flower as pretty too.
“Fuck,” You quietly muttered to yourself. All the foul words imaginable in your thesaurus were spewed out in your thoughts. That’s just how ALL guys describe flowers right?
“Right.” You reassured yourself and your mentality, knowing that wasn’t going to last long.
The graceful sound of Freddie Mercury’s voice suffocated the dissonant babbling of the students in the hallway. As you stride past them on your way to math, your eyes were quick to decipher the Hellfire club amongst the crowd. Dustin’s thinking cap bounced every time he spoke with passion about something whilst Mike matched Dustin’s energy and Eddie and the rest looked unamused by the situation he was in. Mike spotted you as you walked past them. You hear his voice faintly call your name behind the music dancing in your ears. Heavily sighing, you pause your walkman and take your headphones off.
“Yes?”
You were friends with all the members of the club, you’ve talked to Gareth and Jeff before so there was no awkward tension. You glanced at Eddie who was already looking at you. Quickly looking back at Mike, you stood between Eddie and Gareth as you faced the younger ones.
“Can you convince Eddie to come with us tomorrow to StarCourt?” Mike eagerly asked, wanting you to make snide remarks about his miserable life so he could come— which you didn’t catch on to. Though tomorrow Steve made plans with the group to eat at his favourite place at the mall.
You frowned, looking at Eddie, “Wait, you’re not coming?” You questioned, resulting in Mike’s face to twist in puzzlement.
“Nope,” He responded, popping the ‘p’.
“And why is that?”
Eddie tilted his head as he looked at you with a suspicious smirk, ”Do you want me to come, sweetheart?”
The realisation washed over you as you finally noticed that you were acting too nice, you quickly sighed to reclaim yourself, “No. But I do think it’s a good idea to eat some real food— not saying you have to come with us though, but instead of that artificial shit that you’ve been eating out of a can and that’s been sitting in your cupboard for god knows how long,” you quickly breathe out before continuing, “I do wonder how your stomach endures that shit on a daily basis— plus Harrington’s got the bill anyways.”
You concluded it on a positive note to avoid coming across as too nasty and to give him additional incentive to attend. Which you really but secretly wanted. Pursing your lips, he remained silent as his eyes now wandered the floor.
“Okay. Fine. I’ll come.”
“Wait, really?” Mike croaked with hope in his voice as a smile started to creep up on his face.
“Did you not hear how much Y/N wants me to go?” Eddie playfully chuckled out, looking at your now-dumbfounded face.
“I-I do not,” You quickly remarked, a wave of embarrassment visibly sprouting through your pink cheeks.
“Mhm. Totally,” He snorted, noticing the change in your demeanour. He then leaned his back against the locker, looking down at your furious expression. You huffed fiercely, your eyes wide with awkwardness, you rolled your eyes and walked away to class, flipping him off.
“You are so into her,” Dustin sarcastically commented as you walked away, watching your figure blend into the crowd.
“Is that a bad thing?” Eddie revealed.
They let out a chorus of gasps as they look at Eddie with the most baffled yet astonished manner, which likely caused their souls to depart their bodies. All eyes are on him like red lasers, yearning for answers.
“What?!” Mike loudly exclaimed as his hands ruffle through his hair in disbelief.
Eddie casually shrugged his shoulders, enjoying the appalled sight of the boys. Even though it appeared that he didn't care to reveal his feelings, he realised that he had to do so before it eventually devoured him. The group fell into a deafening stillness as the unexpected confession left them all stunned. Eddie silently laughed to himself.
“Oh yeah— Wheeler, for the sake of your sister’s ego, her theory stands correct,” Eddie proclaimed before walking away, still laughing as he watched their jaws hit the floor once more.
-
Hey,
I heard you did really well in Ms O’Donnell’s class. She was really happy that you got the top mark on the essay. I’m really proud of you <3
“Whoa, they left a heart?” Robin squealed as she nudged your arm.
“Yeah, I guess. But that means that this person is probably with me in O’Donnell’s,” you sighed, “I mean, who in my class would go tell their friends that I did well? I’m not popular at all.”
“Well, that gives us a better chance of finding out who it is though.”
You finally shut your locker and face Robin, “But don’t the notes seem so awkward? like they don’t know what to say? If you were to like someone, wouldn’t you have a lot of things to say to them?”
After just three days, you were sick of the whole ‘secret admirer’ nonsense. It had been distracting you far too much recently, and you had more exams coming up soon. Although you were flattered by these letters, you realised that without any indications to whoever this was soon, it would leave you in chaos.
“But not everyone’s the same Y/N.” Robin lifted her brows as she playfully poked your arm.
You all strolled through StarCourt as you followed Steve. What was expected to be a five-minute walk from the car to the restaurant was about to become a thirty-minute walk as the sensory overload of innovative ads and shop decorations captured almost everyone’s utmost attention.
“This is so cute,” Robin bubbled as she picked up a bright sunflower, tucking it behind her ear before posing.
Halting in front of the florist, the strong fruity yet spicy smell invaded your nostrils as you all admired the abundant selection of vibrant bouquets. Your eyes were overwhelmed by the dazzling and never-ending colour combinations that invaded your field of vision.
“I want to give this one to Suzy.” Dustin gently picked out a rich salmon-pink flower, twisting it between his fingers to observe the white hue that inked through the petals.
You stood next to Dustin, “It’s beautiful,” you trailed, admiring the fine details.
“That rose is going to die by the time you give it to her,” Eddie commented, pointing at Dustin with a lavender tulip between his fingertips.
Dustin snorted, “I could always dry and preserve them,” he stated in an obvious tone, “And it’s a peony, not a rose.”
Your mouth moved upwards, about to giggle. It’s a peony, not a rose. Your smile quickly plunged as a quiet gasp fled from your lips. It can’t be. You casted a glance between Eddie and Dustin, who seem oblivious to your reaction.
Eddie rolled his eyes with a smile, “Same thing, different name.”
“See? Isn’t this the best pizza you’ve ever had in your life?” Steve proudly declared with food in his mouth.
Everyone hummed in response as they all stuffed the pizza right into their mouths, savouring every moment and bite.
“How did you even find this place?” Mike asked as he grabbed another slice of pepperoni.
Steve leaned back into his chair, “This hot chick took me here once.”
“And what happened to her?” Lucas curiously questioned.
Steve popped his lips before he propped his elbows on the table, “Let's not talk about it,” He concluded, pursing his lips.
The group continued to break out into smaller conversations amongst themselves. However, you were left daydreaming on your own after that florist incident, leaving you in pure shock and disbelief. It couldn’t be more obvious and it’s only been three days, which meant that he purely sucked at this. You obviously weren’t going to tell him you found out, but you decided to see how far he would take this scheme.
“Y/N?” Dustin softly elbowed you.
You hummed back, facing to your left as you sat between Dustin and Robin with Eddie in front of you.
“You okay?” He quietly whispered, his eyes filled with concern.
Quietly nodding your head, you excused yourself to the bathroom in hopes of clearing your mind. It was stressing you out because you just found out that your crush is your secret admirer and that you couldn’t tell anyone. You knew you could tell Robin but you didn’t want her to go tell Steve and then Nancy then eventually the whole group. After a few minutes to yourself in the bathroom, you headed back out. Robin was in a deep conversation with Nancy, leaving you with the boys to talk to.
“You’re right Y/N, this is way better than that canned shit,” Eddie teased as he patted his stomach.
A tight-lipped smile crept up, “Ha. Yeah,” You dryly responded, still feeling awkward about the situation. Eddie noticed the odd behaviour. Your eyes were hyper-fixated on the table as you slowly nibbled on the pizza. He quickly glanced at the others, noticing them lost in conversations.
“U-Um do you want to come with me to grab something in the van?” He softly asked.
You looked around at the other boys and saw them chatting amongst themselves; you swallowed your dread and tentatively nodded your head.
“So what did you need in the van?” You awkwardly queried, breaking the silence as you both walked in the cold breeze.
“Nothing.”
You shot him a quizzical look, “What? I thou-”
“I just noticed that you seemed off and wanted to ask if you were okay.”
Your brows unknitted, feeling heat rising in your body loosening your joints. As adrenaline pumped through your figure, the swelling of your heart restrained the volume of your breaths. Eddie stopped in his tracks as you reached the van, his big brown eyes staring at you with genuine concern.
“U-um. I’m fine. It’s just that there’s a lot going on y-you know in life,” You managed to stutter out.
He nodded his head in response, trying to hide the fluttery feeling in his stomach, “Well if you need anything or even someone to talk to, I-I’m here,” Eddie empathised as he scratched the back of his neck, gazing his eyes elsewhere.
“Thank you Eddie.” You bit your lip to hide your developing smile.
His mouth stammered open for a few seconds, “Y-Yeah. No problem,” He clicked his tongue trying to cover up his sudden nervousness. You both stood in heavy silence, scared that he could hear your heart pounding in your ears.
“I-I really mean it though,” Eddie interrupted, “Like I know we argue a lot, but we don’t always have to. And plus, I feel like recently we’ve been— better? If that’s a good way to say it. We just haven’t been up each other’s asses lately in a way. I don’t know if it’s just me or somethi-”
“Eds— I’ve noticed it too okay?” You politely cut his rambling as you giggled at his flushed expression.
“You have?”
You pursed your lips as you nod, “Yeah. It feels better this way— though I miss teasing you.”
He let out a low snicker, “Oh really?” A sneaky smirk erupted, “We could always go back to arguing with each other.”
You slightly pushed him, releasing a series of chuckles, “No thanks, I’ve plucked out enough grey hairs already.”
-
As the week passed by and almost the next, more letters began to pile up, and more meaningful encounters with Eddie continued. However, it was still only Robin that was aware of this secret admirer you had under your sleeve, but she had no idea you found out who it was. It was only a question of continuously suppressing the fact that you hadn't figured it out yet.
Since the little occurrence at StarCourt last week, it has become apparent that Eddie is the secret admirer— though he hasn’t admitted it yet— which is also a reason why more heartfelt conversations occurred with him because you insisted on them.
The group had noticed that there was almost no squabbling between you both, and that genuine exchanges were being passed as you both began to get to know one other even more. Mike was aware that Eddie had feelings for you, but Dustin knew that you both returned those sentiments, while the rest of the gang had their theories.
Despite the fact that neither of you acknowledged the reality of you both no longer bickering with each other, you were both thrilled that the phase is over. Though you or Eddie would make snarky remarks here and there, you both joked it off, and sometimes there would even be flirtatious ones, which would leave you in a bright red mess.
4pm. Today. After school.
Meet me in the gymnasium. Be on time.
Your heart started to pound as hard as it possibly could. Is he finally revealing himself? Did he plan something for me? Is the group part of the plan?
Your eyes tightly clenched in pure excitement and worry, not knowing what to expect. The last few days have been incredible. Though the hints and clues were a little messed up, you still figured it out.
Robin skipped school today, leaving you alone with Nancy and Steve, but you didn't mind. That also meant that there'd be no one to bother you at your locker as you waited for another note.
But tonight, everyone was coming over to your place after school for a sleepover. You’ve already set up the living room, movies, beverages, and snacks before you slept last night. It had been a while since a group sleepover so everyone was excited about it.
Whilst you were absorbed in your own tranquilly, you noticed Dustin at the end of the corridor with a panicked expression on his face, his attention eventually fell onto you as he ran towards you in haste.
“You need to come now!” Dustin urgently exclaimed as he forcefully pulled you. Everyone's attention was drawn to you and Dustin as his troubled eagerness rang down the hallway.
Eventually, he dragged you into the room where D&D sessions are held. Instead of bright spotlights painting the ancient, wooden floors in neon colours, you were welcomed with darkness and a warm-toned light barely illuminating the space. It was so dark you stumbled on the leg of the chair right in front of you.
“What is it Dustin?” Your frantic voice reverberated against the cold walls of the room as your figures were engulfed in utter darkness. You watch as his petrified gaze turn sinister.
Your brows slowly furrowed, “Dustin? Wha-”
A loud horn erupted right into your ear, causing you to scream at the top of your lungs. In an instant, you covered your ears and crouched down into a ball. The horn ceased booming, and your screams were drowned out by laughter and knee slaps. Standing up and uncovering your ears, you turn around and find Eddie, Mike, Lucas, and Dustin roaring with laughter. Eddie was loudly slapping his knee in enjoyment, as he witnessed your spirit depart from your body. You huffed and rolled your eyes, clamping your jaw in pure anguish.
Eddie slowly walked over to you with a blow horn in one hand, still laughing before he slung his arm over your shoulder and whispered in your ear, “April fools, sweetheart.”
You lightly shoved him and tried to conceal the frown erupting into a smile, however you couldn’t help it as the boys' happiness encircling you made your heart ease, even if they designated you as their victim. You’re lucky that the darkness masked the pink mess on your face, you hid your face behind your hands as Eddie brought you in an embrace.
“I never knew you could scream like that,” Lucas giggled out.
You playfully punched Lucas’ bicep, “To be honest I never knew I could too. You boys just have something in you.”
“So you’re telling me I could make you scream like that?” Eddie insisted with a mischievous tone.
Escaping from his embrace, the boys immediately covered their ears, loudly whining in discontent, shouting words along the lines of ‘Gross’, ‘Yuck’, and gags over the top of each other.
You scrunched your nose in disbelief, “Ew Eds. You’re disgusting.”
-
Today felt like the longest day ever. You swore the clock was ticking slower than usual. The one-hour lessons felt like two. The forty-minute lunch felt like eighty. And the last period felt like the whole day. That was until the clock finally reached 3pm. You dashed out of that last class. With only an hour spare, you shoved all your textbooks into your locker and grabbed your spare makeup bag. You were relieved that you set everything up for the sleepover last night. It was a sign. You thought.
You sprinted to the restroom and touched up your makeup in the last hour. Re-applied mascara. More blush. More bronzer, then more lipstick. This has been the moment you’ve been waiting for. You couldn’t wait to toss your arms around his neck and finally admit the feelings that have been gnawing at your heart. Because the thrill made your heart flutter, you took a deep breath and expelled all of your troubles, worries, and pessimistic thoughts. Though a pinch of them lingered within you, you felt more pleased as the tightness in your joints eased.
Placing your lipstick back in the bag, you glanced at your watch. It’s only been ten fucking minutes. You toss your head back in irritation, wondering what to do. Observing your hair and outfit in the mirror, you lightly wet your hands and slick the fly-aways at your hairline. You opted to waste your time by doing homework in a random classroom near the gymnasium because there was nothing else you could do.
Finally.
You stood right in front of the gymnasium doors, ready to meet Eddie. You fixed your hair and patted your top straight. You chewed on your lips as you intently watch the seconds tick by.
3:59:45
3:59:50
3:59:55
4:00:00
You took a deep breath. Inhaling in. Exhaling out. Widely opening the door, you were met with—nothing. Despite the fact that you were unsure of what to anticipate, you certainly did not expect to find the gym deserted, the lights out, and the only source of light was coming from the sun rays illuminating through the window. Maybe he’s doing something different.
The sound of your footsteps echoed through the hall as you slowly walked towards the middle of the gymnasium. Standing in the centre, you began to glance about to see if anyone was hiding or if there was any indication of life. The excitement still lingered within your heart, not doubting Eddie at all. 4:02:39. He’s probably just late, typical Eddie. You bit your lips, staring at the two doors of the gymnasium, hoping to see a curly, long-haired silhouette appear.
4:05:27. After a while of standing, you decided to go to the stands and sit down. You still had high expectations for Eddie's arrival; the idea of him standing you up hadn't even crossed your mind. Eddie was frequently 20-30 minutes late for social occasions. But you could wait; you had plenty of time before the sleepover. It was simply a ten-minute journey from your place to school. There’s plenty of time, you reasoned.
Time continued to tick by, as you soaked in silence. The coolness of the gymnasium enveloped your form, but your enthusiasm kept you warm as your leg bounced quickly. Though dread has not triumphed over your eagerness, the overthinking gremlin in the back of your mind has quietly begun to scratch at your thoughts slowly making it's way to your heart. He wouldn’t leave me waiting this long. Would he?
4:14:52. He should be here in another fifteen minutes— max. You were thinking of doing more homework to waste time but what if it ruins the surprise? How? I don’t know. Maybe it’ll ruin the excitement? Now that you realise it, you were definitely overthinking this. As you still waited, it seemed as though the dust particles in the air just kept accumulating on you. Eddie is special to you that even if you were eventually a pile of dust, you would still wait for him. Though you couldn't stay here forever since you still had the sleepover to host, you would wait for him until the very last minute, second, and millisecond.
4:22:22. The latest you were willing to leave was 4:40pm. Loneliness and restlessness began to erode your sanity. Uncertainty started to twist your mind while irritation slightly bubbled beneath you, ready to explode. Your butt felt sore after a while, and after constantly shifting in your seat, you were sure layers of dust were adhering to your jeans. You still had to shower and change for the sleepover. Plus a ten-minute drive. Although your hair might still be wet when they arrive, you didn’t mind, it was all for Eddie.
A few more minutes started to pass by, then four minutes, six minutes and then sixteen minutes. 4:38:20. No signs of him, despite the extra thirty minutes you granted him. The exhilaration dissipated as anguish overwhelmed your heart. The last time you felt this familiar resentment was before the hidden admirer scheme. You were late, exhausted, and yet had plans.
I’m over it. You seized your belongings and stormed out the door, completely outraged. The doors of the gymnasium slammed against the brick wall as you obnoxiously forced them open. As you made your way out of the building through the corridor, you could hear the sounds of the jocks emanating from the parking lot. When you arrived at the parking lot, a familiar van was still parked in its accustomed spot. What could he possibly be doing for forty minutes?
That was until you heard Eddie's voice intermingled with the jocks' voices. Your head perked up as your gaze was drawn to the building's corner.
“Lowest I can do is thirty-five.”
The sound of Jason’s arrogant whine is heard, “C’mon Munson. I know you can do twenty-five for that.”
Of course. A fucking drug deal. Although you respected his little business and you never got in the way of it, you were already tired and very, very irritated. With Jason and his jocks in front of Eddie and his back to you, you made a brisk approach to the group.
Jason's eyes met your enraged ones and he smirked broadly. "Munson, a little someone's here for you," he added. You noticed the rest of the jocks trying to refrain from laughing. However, after a moment of bewilderment, Eddie's head turned around and finally it was realised you. His gaze softened but remained cautious since he was in the middle of a deal, clearly oblivious to your infuriating temper which angered you even more.
“Oh h-hey Y/N-Um-l’ll be over at yours after th-”
“I’ve been waiting in the gymnasium for you—since four!” You angrily exclaimed right in front of everyone.
Eddie shifted his whole body to face you, confusion striking every part of his body, unable to grasp what you’re trying to say.
“I-I’m sorry?” He asked warily, now noticing your furious demeanour. You scoffed, sheer rage boiling in your tone, spiteful enough to block out the jocks' snickering in your ears.
“You told me to meet you at the gymnasium at four! Remember the note?”
“Note?” Eddie’s eyes rapidly glanced between you and Jason still unaware, “I-I don’t know what you’re talking ab-”
“I know it’s you, Eddie! Stop lying! T-the notes, the flowers a-and the fucking-e-everything! I-t’s you!” You almost shout at him, tears already welled up in your eyes as you hold back the excruciating lump in your throat. He advanced a step towards you, hands outstretched, ready to embrace you, but you back away from him to resist his touch.
Your face is flushed, tears ached in your eyes, confident that he's acting clueless because he's in the presence of the jocks.
“Don’t fuck with me, Eddie. Don’t act like you weren’t secretly passing all these corny notes and flowers to me for this past week.”
Eddie remained silent. Genuinely stumped by the entire ordeal. He watched your figure start to shatter apart as sorrow began to creep into his consciousness. Your fingers and lips trembled as a few tears trickled down your cheek. You glanced at the ground, now doubting if it really was Eddie. How could it not be Eddie? It’s him. Eddie peered over at the jocks who are cackling to themselves and then turned to face you. He couldn't care less about them; his top focus right now is you.
“L-look I-I’m sorry b-but-I,” Eddie stuttered out words to form a sentence but couldn’t, not when you were already so hurt by something he didn’t do.
“Was this all real?” you huffed out through tears.
“W-what was what?”
“This,” you point your finger between his figure and yours, “Was it all fake? When we hated each other's guts, d-did you really hate me? Did you do this to get some sort of revenge?” Within the span of your remark, you shed a torrent of tears, which were now gushing continuously past your cheeks and onto your shirt. You were well aware that you seemed dishevelled. Tear tracks likely surfaced on your cheeks from the mascara seeping down with your tears.
He opened his mouth to say something but you continued, “Did you pretend we were okay and acted like you were secretly in love with me this past week so you could watch me fall apart because you hate me so much?”
This sudden pressure in Eddie's lungs prevented him from breathing correctly. There was nothing he did. Nothing. Although he was confused by the entire circumstance, he was not confused by the fact that he loves you. And now that you're wondering if it's all fake, incited additional rage and perplexity.
“Awe.” A voice interrupted. When you glance up, you find Jason cynically pouting and flashing his best puppy eyes at you and Eddie.
Eddie clenched his jaw, “Jason fuck off. I’m calling off the deal.”
Jason’s brows furrowed, “Calling off the deal? I thought you needed money for that old man and that shitty van of yours that probably reeks of weed and your own filth.”
Eddie shoved Jason to the ground. He was already on edge, and Jason was exacerbating the situation. You silently gasped and jumped back in panic as Patrick took Eddie by the collar of his shirt.
Jason promptly redeemed himself, swiftly standing on his feet and patting away the residual dirt on his pants and jacket before snatching Eddie from Patrick. The lump at the back of Eddie's throat kept him silent as Jason sneered sinisterly between you and his friends.
“You deserve this Munson. You deserve to live in hell,” Jason muttered. Eddie loudly grunted, trying to break free from Jason’s grip. Instead, his grasp tightened as he began to chuckle, becoming increasingly louder and menacing.
“Oh, this is funny. We did a good job boys. Didn’t we?” Jason asked as he looked over at his friends with a bitter smile. They exchanged broad grins as they fist-bumped one other. You stood there now being the oblivious one, confused as to why they were celebrating, but assumed it had something to do with Eddie. It was now his turn to shove Eddie to the ground, causing him to wince in pain.
A loud sigh escaped Jason’s mouth as he faced you, showing a modest tight-lipped smile. “By the way-” his tongue rolled over his lips, “-I’m truly sorry for the mistake.”
“What?” Your brows dipped in complete confusion.
“Blame Patrick— It was a peony, not a rose.”
You felt your soul being drained out of you as your face slumped. It seemed as if the world had come to a halt for a brief minute. Sudden heat surged to your cheeks as your fingers tightened on the hem of your shirt, ripping it. The uneasiness in your heart was replaced with frenzy, overwhelming the capacity your emotions can take. A malicious smirk emerged as he witnessed the dread on your face abruptly morph into vengeance.
“Happy April fools, ‘sweetheart’.” His tone overflowed with satisfaction and pride, thrilled with what he had accomplished.
As the boys praised him, he spun away on his heels, a triumphant smile on his face. Once more, you felt a prickling sensation in your vision. Guilt started to torment your mind as Eddie hesitantly rose to his feet.
“You fucking asshole!” You screamed, legs now running towards Jason as anger controlled your body. However, you were grabbed tightly by the waist, stopping you from reaching Jason. You aggressively flailed your arms and kicked your legs as hard as you could to get out of the grasp.
‘L-Let g-go! Let go!” You shrieked through sobs. You watch Jason and his friends cracking up. Some mock you by flailing their hands. Some mock Eddie by imitating his horns.
“H-hey-hey-Y/N-p-please,” Eddie desperately begged. Your hits became weaker and slower under Eddie’s grasp. You start to slip down to your knees, hands covering your face in embarrassment, guilt and resentment.
Hiding behind your hands provided you with the fragment of comfort in the knowledge that you felt like no one could see you and you could see no one. In ways you've never experienced, your heart began to ache in the most agonising depths imaginable. You didn't want to confront Eddie at all. You wished you could simply go back in time to when you both were frequently arguing. Embarrassment poured over you as you wept on the ground, not realising you were in Eddie's grasp.
Unaware of how much time has gone while you've been cloaked in the dark by your hands, you cautiously raised your head and noticed the sun beginning to fade behind dwellings. Eddie felt your chin settle on his shoulder and gave you a comforting stroke on the back. Although he was unaware of this prank, he felt awful for not discovering sooner.
“I’m sorry.”
Humiliation chewed up the remainder of your swelling anger leaving you in a pit of remorse. You gulped after Eddie’s voice pierced the silence.
“No. I’m sorry, Eddie.”
“But you didn’t know that they were doing this to you,” Eddie agonised as he heaved almost tiredly, feeling his chest rising and falling with every breath he took.
“Well you didn’t know either.”
Eddie remained quiet while you both sat in each other’s presence. His arms are now around your waist, and yours around his neck with the night wind growing colder, allowing the numbness in your heart to intensify.
“I-I’m just so sorry for putting the blame on you. I-I’m sorry for thinking your ‘friendly’ actions meant something more. I just thought it was because of the notes and stuff,” you trailed off quietly as the whispers of the breeze drifted by your ears, allowing a few seconds of stillness to pass.
Eddie pursed his lips, resting his chin on top of your head, “I mean, what if I truly meant for it to be something more in the first place?”
You leaned back from his touch, his exhausted and gloomy eyes gazing at yours.
“What do you mean?”
Eddie noticed the insecurity in your eyes as your eyes flinched in confusion, “Princess, I’ve been wanting more ever since we had our first argument. I just knew you were different than the others, but I genuinely thought you ‘hated’ me-” He used his fingers as quote marks to recall that stage, “-but that one time where you didn’t make a mean comment like you would, I-I thought there was a chance for us to change.” He cupped your cheek and stared into your weary eyes, “A-And it did. I was over the moon when we had our first- I don’t know, our first respectfulish conversation.” You tenderly smiled, leaning into his touch. Eddie shifted his attention elsewhere, nibbling on his lower lip while his cheeks turned scarlet. The moment you let out a small chuckle, his eyes locked with yours once again, but this time, you could feel the honesty and grief in his eyes.
“I just hope that this whole prank thing didn’t change your feelings towards me,” Eddie quietly voiced.
You shook your head, “Well now knowing that you actually like me, it has changed a bit.”
His face twisted and plummeted with confusion and fear, leaving him dumbfounded. As you watched him experience the stages of grief in two seconds, you could not contain the bubbles of laughter that shortly erupted.
“Not in a bad way, stupid, it just made me fall harder for you even more.”
Eddie sarcastically placed his hands above his heart, rolling his eyes as he deeply exhaled a large breath, “Oh I am flattered by your cheesiness.” You playfully slapped his arm, “But seriously, I was genuinely worried for a second,” he chuckled before he brought you into his warm embrace. In an instant, the worry and stress that had been haunting you were swiftly washed away by his touch and were replaced with serenity and tenderness.
“I wonder how the others will react to this,” you quietly whispered against his shoulder.
“This?”
“Us.” Your head rose to greet Eddie's, merely inches apart. His gaze is drawn between your eyes and lips.
He slightly shrugged, “I don’t know about the others, but I know Dustin is going to be thrilled.”
You let out a few stifled giggles as you envisioned Dustin bouncing with excitement when you reveal the information. As you peered over Eddie's shoulder, the moon was gently rising to reveal its splendour whilst the streetlights cast their glory. For some reason, something felt odd, it was as if your brain was screaming, trying to alert you.
“Eddie, how long have we been sitting here?”
“Uh-I don’t know,” He flicked his wrist to view his watch, “It’s 5:40— if that makes it any better.”
5:40? You thought hard in your head about what you possibly forgot. Textbooks in your locker? No. Assignment due tomorrow? No. Going to Robin’s house? No. Sleepover? N-Yes.
“Fuck!” You loudly exclaimed, startling Eddie as you scrambled to stand up straight.
“What? What?” His eyes widened in fear, baffled by your troubled state.
“T-the sleepover!”
“Oh shit.”
5K notes · View notes
jasm1nelily · 2 years
Text
you’re the only woman
pairing : eddie munson x fem!reader
word count : 3.7k
summary : eddie munson has a huge crush on y/n l/n. which really sucks, because she’s his friend, and she’s way out of his league... but god, she’s so gorgeous. 
notes : slight spoilers for s4 :) so incredibly slight. that’s all <3 this is for all my eddie lovers in light of some... recent developments.
ALSO! requests are open :) check out my pinned post for more info on that. enjoy!
Eddie Munson has a crush. 
Which is weird, because he hasn’t had a crush on anybody for what must be at least two years. Not for any specific reason. He’s just never allowed himself to feel those things for someone else, because 1) he always gets rejected, anyhow 2) there are more important things in his life. Like Hellfire Club. And actually graduating. In that order, of course. 
But as much as Eddie wants to focus only his campaign, on recruiting new members, on at least passing the same math class he’s been in for who knows how long, he finds himself thinking about her a lot more often than he wishes he would. He tried to deny, deny, deny, for as long as he could, until it got ridiculous and he realized how stupid he sounded attempting to rationalize this odd set of emotions to be anything other than what they so plainly were. 
Eddie Munson has a crush. 
And she’s so beautiful. She’s got a gorgeous smile, she’s got a pretty laugh. Her voice is so perfect that sometimes when he reads things in his head he imagines that it’s her reading it instead, which has actually become a successful studying tactic in recent weeks. So maybe this crush has been a little helpful in areas of his life that he needs help in, but the hassle of it all is much more evident. 
His favorite thing about her is that she doesn’t care for traditional labels, like loser or jock or stupid shit that movies made up to divide the high school population. She eats lunch with him and his boys, she cheers at the football games on Fridays, she participates in art shows and debate competitions on the weekends. And where somebody else would be outcast for trying to be so many things at once, it works for her, because it’s her, and anybody who even tried to shun her would be, for lack of better words, an idiot. 
Here’s the thing. Eddie Munson has a huge crush on Y/N L/N, and he stands no chance. 
And when he says no chance, he means absolutely zero. Zero as in zilch, as in it’s a pipe dream that he could ever be with her, as in the probability of her saying yes even if she had just hit her head in a serious car accident would be 100 to 1. 
This is the main reason Eddie has been attempting to convince himself that he doesn’t actually have a crush on her, because if he allows the idea to take root in his mind he knows he won’t be able to let go of it. He won’t even talk about it. Saying the actual words would make it real. Too real. 
Except, his lips tend to get a little loose when he’s not fully in control of his facilities. As in, when he’s high, which is at least once a week; unfortunately, he’s never alone when he smokes, which makes the chance that it’ll slip out much higher. For this reason, he always makes excuses not to get high with her. He lies about being busy, and if he actually agrees he doesn’t smoke enough to lose his ability to reign in his thoughts. He always regrets it when he does the latter, because even if he’s not super high, being even the slightest bit inebriated around her is a recipe for disaster. Y/N always looks prettiest when Eddie is high. Not that she doesn’t look pretty no matter what. 
But today is a special day. It’s the last day of school before Spring Break, which usually would suck because the whole day Eddie would just be looking forward to the final hour. But Y/N’s parents are dragging her on a trip for the entirety of the break, so Eddie promised to make tonight extra special for her—as in, they’ll smoke, drink, listen to music, and all around have as lovely a time as is possible for him when he’s alone with her. They weren’t actually supposed to be alone, but everyone else canceled last minute. Very convenient. Sometimes Eddie wonders if all his friends know about this crush of his without him having to actually say anything. 
Spoiler alert: there is actually not that much fun that is possible for Eddie when he’s alone with Y/N, because half the time he’s wishing he could be kissing her, and the other half he’s afraid he’ll say something dumb and fuck things up. But he’s not about to let her leave without seeing her for as much time as possible, so Eddie decides he’ll just have to grow some balls and act normal and be her friend even if he really really wants to be more. 
Eddie doesn’t realize he’s been sitting in one place zoning out until he hears three loud knocks on the trailer door, accompanied by a voice that’s all too familiar, though he can’t make out the words. He blinks a few times and glances at the clock—he’s been here for 20 minutes. Maybe he should cut down on the, you know, drugs. It’s probably not having a great impact on his attention span. 
“Eds, hurry up. It’s cold!” 
Fuck. She’s here. 
Eddie bolts up from his uncle’s Lazy Boy and heads straight for the door; not, of course, before checking his hair in the mirror by the TV. Looking good, Munson. Let’s hope Y/N thinks the same. (Who is he kidding?) 
When Eddie opens the door and sees her standing there, he kinda sorta wishes that he canceled too. He doesn’t think he’s ever seen her look so good. Sure, he’s seen her in that really cute cheerleader outfit, which he calls stupid to her face but literally dreams about at night, but it’s nothing compared to this. 
“What? You didn’t think I was giving this back, did you?” she greets, grinning playfully as she pushes past him and into the trailer. God, he feels like he’s about to burst, because she’s wearing his sweater. He let her borrow it a week or so ago because she spilled something on her own, but never got the chance to see her in it because he was headed to Hellfire Club, and he’s not late to that, not ever. 
Eddie swallows and curses himself for standing there like an idiot before he closes the door. “That’s my favorite sweater.” It actually isn’t, but now it is. 
She laughs and swings the plastic bag full of snacks and whatever else onto the table. “Too bad. It’s mine now.” 
No complaints there. He’d literally pay her to wear it everyday. 
Eddie does pretty well for the first hour or so. All Y/N wants to do is talk and eat chips and drink the shitty alcohol she managed to score off her older brother, and that’s safe for him, so Eddie has no issues with that. She talks a lot, which he loves. She’s talking about this movie she really liked as a kid when it happens for the first time. 
“Fuck, what’s the name? I can’t remember the name. This is gonna annoy me all night,” she sighs, squeezing her eyes shut as if that’ll help her come up with it. Her legs are crossed and she’s sitting on the couch, a can of whatever it is she’s been sipping in hand. Eddie has one of his own but he hasn’t been able to drink much of it. He’s too nervous, which seems contradictory seeing as being a little inebriated would make him less nervous, but he can’t bother to try explaining the intricacies of his mind. 
Eddie laughs a little at her, which prompts Y/N to open her eyes and give him a slight glare. “What’s so funny, Munson? I’m trying to remember!” 
“My bad, my bad. Please, carry on remembering.” 
She huffs. "Fuck, this is so irritating. Why can’t I just remember?” 
Y/N heaves another sigh, placing her drink on the side table as she stretches her arms upwards. Before Eddie can really react, she free falls her upper body right toward him, landing squarely with her head on his thigh, and her arms on either side of her face; one hand brushing against Eddie’s side, and one hanging off the couch. 
Eddie wants to die. 
She looks pretty, looking up at him with those big eyes, smiling even more brightly than she usually does—or maybe it just looks that way, who knows. Either way, Eddie hopes he doesn’t look as starstruck as he feels, because if he does he’s sure she’s gonna burst out laughing. 
“Woah, Eds, you’ve got really nice eyes. How come I never noticed?” Y/N reaches a hand up to grab at his face, and her fingertips leave scorching marks on his cheeks. 
“Um,” he stutters, hoping she’s a little too off-her-rocker to notice. “Thanks.” 
She giggles. “You’re such a dork.” And then her hands fall and she sits up and it’s all over. 
Eddie decides he’ll drink a little more from that point on. 
It’s about an hour before anything of that nature happens again. By that point, Eddie’s finished his can of piss and he feels it coursing through his veins, making him a little more loose, a little more him, because he’s so anxious right now that Tipsy Him is kinda just Normal Him. The two of them are sitting outside now. Y/N’s lying on her side on the picnic table by his trailer and he’s seated on the bench, listening to her retell a story about being kicked out of a grocery store. 
When she finishes, she goes quiet, and Eddie wonders if maybe he should tell a story now. What about that one where he almost fell out of a rollercoaster in Minnesota? Or that time he was chased by 5 middle schoolers through the woods? Or—
“Wanna smoke?” 
Never mind. That sounds like a better idea. “Hell yeah.” 
They go back inside; to Eddie’s room, to be exact, which he cleaned up a little before her arrival. Just enough that it doesn’t look like he did it just for her, because even if Y/N’s never been to his house, everyone knows Eddie doesn’t exactly keep his abode spick and span. It’s a stereotype, but it’s pretty much true. 
“Give me a sec. I pre-rolled some, just gotta find em...” he trails off, digging through his comics and other nerdy shit as he tries to remember where he put his tin. 
“Oh my god, your guitar! She’s beautiful,” Y/N breaths, shuffling past him and toward his one true love. He smiles to himself as he continues to look, trying to ignore the urge to turn around and watch as she no doubt admires his baby. Finally, Eddie discovers that he’s hidden his tin underneath his pajamas from the previous night, which means it’s on the floor. He probably could’ve cleaned that up, but oh well. 
Soon, the two of them are sitting on the floor, shoulder to shoulder as they lean against his bed and share a joint. Eddie doesn’t think he’s been so content in a while. 
“Hey, why don’t you have a girlfriend?” 
He almost chokes on the smoke that leaves his lips; just at the right time, he thinks, because if she’d said it while the joint was still in his mouth he would probably be keeled over trying to cough it up out of his throat. Y/N giggles at his reaction and lays her hand on his shoulder, making him turn to look at her. 
“I mean it! You’re so handsome, Eds. And you’re probably the only guy I’ve never heard make a gross joke about girls.” 
Eddie blinks back at her for a moment, unsure of how to react to that—maybe he should correct her, because while he’s never made a gross joke about a girl in front of her, he’s definitely done it otherwise. And then it hits him—
“I’m handsome?” 
Y/N stares with this incredulous look in her eyes, like she’s somewhere far away and is struggling to get back to reality, where she’s just called Eddie Munson handsome and is sitting next to him smoking a joint. 
“Yes, dork. You didn’t know?” 
Eddie is completely and utterly terrified that he’s about to say the wrong thing. Even worse, he’s blank on words right now—his mind is essentially a wiped blackboard, and all that’s left are vague scribblings of time long past, shadows of sentences that he can’t make out. And he’s staring at her with bug eyes and she looks so cute waiting on his response, because she doesn’t look at all phased by the long stretch of silence that has followed her reply. 
Finally, he thinks of something, and maybe it’s because he just wants to fill the quiet or because the high is starting to hit, but he doesn’t really ponder too hard about the consequences of his actions before he says—
“I really wanna kiss you right now.” 
It’s Y/N’s turn to go mute, and go mute she does. Her expression is frozen in a smile, glossy eyes, eyebrows raised. Eddie feels as if he is going to explode. Chunks of his brain are going to splatter against the posters on his wall. They’re going to find his blown off fingers underneath the bed, next to his porno magazines. His eyeballs will fly out the window and the neighbor’s dog will eat them. 
“Kiss me, then.” 
BOOM. Blood splatters all over his carpet and his bedding and Y/N screams, cradling what remains of his mutilated body in her arms—
Oh. 
“What did you say?” Eddie’s voice comes out as a mix between a croak and a whisper as he gawks at her face. She smiles and inches a little closer. The space between them is so small that he can smell the fruity alcohol on her tongue, smell the potency of the weed on her breath. It’s like a fucking aphrodisiac. 
“You wanna kiss me, right? Then do it.” 
It takes him a few more seconds to register her request; a few seconds too long, because before Eddie knows it she’s closed the distance. Her lips are suddenly slotted against his and there aren’t any fireworks, sparks, tingles, nothing; it just feels so incredibly right, like this is the only thing in the world Eddie is meant to be doing at this moment, at any moment, for all time. 
She tastes like a bitter candy, a result of the different substances she had consumed that evening. It tastes really fucking good. Eddie hopes he tastes just as good as her, just as intoxicating, because maybe then she’ll need him in this moment just as much as he needs her. 
Y/N hums to herself, something Eddie isn’t sure what the meaning of is, but understands when she pulls away just a moment after. She keeps her forehead touching his, and their noses are still poking one another as well, which Eddie appreciates because he wants to remain as close to her as humanely possible so the spell doesn’t break. 
“That was really nice. You’re a good kisser,” she whispers, smiling so hard he’s sure her cheeks are aching. She looks him in the eyes and her pupils are blown up so big that they look like black holes, sucking him in. He’s happy to go along with them. 
“I’ve wanted that for so long,” Eddie confesses, almost regretting it when she giggles softly. 
“Me too.” Eddie feels like he should die right now, because he’s already in Heaven. 
“Can we do it again?” His heart is pounding so hard he's afraid she can hear it.
“Wait.” 
She’s quiet for a second, before she pulls away even further and takes his hands in hers. He misses the contact of her face so close to his, but in her eyes Eddie can tell there’s something she wants to say. Rather, something she wants to hear. He has an inkling he knows just what that is, but an inkling isn’t enough—he’s not sure anything would be enough to make him admit his feelings, because the idea of being rejected by her and losing her in his life forever is something he just can’t fathom. He needs her. Even if it means he can only have a part of her, he just needs something. 
“Eds,” Y/N starts, her tone more serious than it had been before. Yet, her pretty smile hasn’t fallen, and her pupils are still staring right into his. He feels like his pupils are pretty big too, even though he can’t see them, and he wonders if he can see more of her like this—as if his pupils being larger would let him absorb more of her into his memory. 
“Do you remember that one time i got mad at you? Like, really mad. That time we didn’t talk for a week. Remember that?” 
Eddie nods. “Of course I do. Worst week of my life.” 
Y/N’s smile gets a little wider but she tries to bit it back—it doesn’t work. “I said I was mad because you ditched our movie night for Hellfire. But that wasn’t the actual reason. The real reason was something really dumb that’s gonna make me sound so fuckin’ stupid, but I’m gonna tell you anyway. Ready?” 
“You never sound stupid.” Alright. Enough with the buttering up, idiot. You don't have to say every compliment that comes to mind. 
But she just smiles a little harder and ignores it. 
“i wasn’t mad at all. I was actually just sad, because I really wanted to spend time with you, and then I was upset because I realized I shouldn’t be that sad about that, and then I was too scared to talk to you... because I realized, I really like you, Eddie. I really, really like you. I wanna spend every second that I can with you. I even considered joining Hellfire just to have extra time.”  
Eddie’s mouth has gone dry. 
“You don’t have to say anything. But I would really like you too, or else I might cry,” she adds, and he can hear in her voice that she is definitely not bluffing. The last thing he wants to see is her crying, especially if he’s the cause, so he starts to rack his mind for a way to properly articulate all the emotions and complex feelings and thoughts he has surrounding her. 
Every time you look at me it feels like somebody has a hand wrapped around my chest and they’re squeezing really fucking hard, trying to make my heart pop out of my throat or something. Every time I’m doing something and you’re not with me I’m thinking about you. I want to be the person you go to when you’re sad, the person who makes you happy when you’re sad, the person who never makes you sad, because I want to love you so much that you can’t stand it anymore and you love me back just the same, because I can take it. There will never be a moment where I can’t stand it. I want to make you the happiest girl on Earth, maybe in the whole galaxy. Standing next to you I feel like a person. I feel real. You make me feel real. I can’t ever let you go. 
But instead of saying all that, Eddie just smiles awkwardly at her and squeezes her hands. 
“I think I might be in love with you.” 
His smile falls a little because she’s made good on her promise; a few tears are running down her cheeks, but her lips are pulled into such a big grin that he would be remiss to think she was anything but extraordinarily happy. Like so happy that her face might split in two. And Eddie feels the same way, except he’s managing to keep it buried underneath the butterflies that swarm violently in his abdomen. 
“Good. I think I’m in love with you too.” 
Never did he think he’d ever hear her say those words. But here he is, slightly drunk and pretty high, which is a state of mind he promised himself to refrain from being in when he’s with her, and he wonders if maybe she’s just saying all this because she’s not sober. But before he can ask, she leans into him, and presses another kiss onto his lips—not as violent or passionate as before, but just as sweet, and a little more loving. 
“I’m really glad everyone else canceled. If we hadn’t smoked alone, I wouldn’t have had the balls to do any of that.” 
“I’m really glad you told me how you felt first. If you hadn’t, we’d be sitting here in silence for at least another hour.” Eddie laughs when she hits his arm just hard enough for him to know she’s just playing around, and finds that he can’t stop laughing, even when she leans into him and they fall to the floor, his arms wrapped around her body as she lies on top of him. 
“I’m so happy right now,” he whispers, not really saying it to her. “I’m so fucking happy.” 
Eddie Munson has a crush.
And she’s so beautiful. She’s got a gorgeous smile, she’s got a pretty laugh. Her skin is so soft that sometimes he just traces shapes on it to help himself fall asleep when he’s lying next to her. She supports him in everything he does—at least, everything that makes some sort of sense, otherwise she’ll aptly call him out on his stupidity. And he loves her for it. He loves her for everything that she is, everything that she’s not, everything she tries to be. 
Eddie Munson has more than a crush. Eddie Munson is in love. 
And thank god she loves him back. Otherwise, he thinks he might die. 
6K notes · View notes
lavendermunson · 1 month
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media Tumblr media
imagine dating demigod!eddie son of dionysus
special thanks to my babe @keeksandgigz 💗
110 notes · View notes
crappymixtape · 2 months
Text
love will keep us alive
Tumblr media
BONUS V2 OF A REQUEST → ❝ angst prompt: “do you regret it?” this has been sitting in my drafts for LITERAL MONTHS and i just need to set it freeeee | ( 1.3k – a sprinkle of angst, a sprinkle of fluff, all the feelings, established relationship, eddie x reader )
L O V E W I L L K E E P U S A L I V E 🎶 love you, flowerovlove
You knew money was always a dealbreaker for relationships. You watched it happen with your own parents. Watched them go through it all and in the end get divorced because your dad spent too much money and your mom couldn’t handle it. You promised yourself you wouldn’t get into the same situation, not with Eddie, but here you were.
Paying for rent and utilities had been fine, you put a little gas in the car when you could, and you were even able to buy a six pack of beer every now and then, but somehow this month you were short. Somehow the water bill came and there wasn’t enough.
The statement came in the mail with big red letters stamped across the front, OVERDUE, but Eddie waved you off.
Don’t we have it on autopay, babe? Must be a mistake.
So you left it alone, but when you woke up in the morning to take a shower before work? Nothing came out of the shower head.
Towel tucked under your arms you stormed out into the living room, cold and angry, to find Eddie posted up on the couch. So casual. Reading a Thrasher magazine with the TV on in the background.
“So. The water’s off,” your tone was short, clipped and sharp enough to pull Eddie’s attention away from the magazine. Brows pinching together in confusion as he swung his legs off the couch to look at you properly.
“Huh? Sweetheart, what d’you mean off?“ he asked, looked up at you with those big brown eyes and you bit your lips in to try and stop yourself from raising your voice.
“The water is off, as in the water company turned it off,” you said again, frustration swelling in your chest, “I thought you said it was on autopay?”
“Well, yeah,” he started off confidently, so sure. “We set that up when we moved in and put it in your name and–” but he drifted off at the end of his sentence and his cheeks grew warm. Hot and embarrassed and he buried his face in his hands with a groan.
You’d split the utilities up when you two moved in together, especially since you had separate bank accounts, and as Eddie ticked them off in his head – internet, garbage, phone – he realized the water wasn’t under your name. It was under his. And this month had been tight.
Working at the bar was decent most of the time. Tips were good and Eddie’s regulars took care of him, but lately? It has been really slow. Slower than usual and it was hard for Eddie to remember to save during times like that.
No grabbing coffee on his way out in the morning. No beers with Steve after he got done at family video. No buying the kids new dice or a playbook for Hellfire, but he always got caught up in the moment and shit. This time he’d lost track.
“I’m so sorry babe,“ his voice was muffled as he spoke into his hands, tentatively lifting his head to look at you, “Can we maybe cover it from your account this month?“
You felt your cheeks grow hot, heat spreading from your chest across your neck and up to your ears. Your lips twisted with a frown, a deep scowl, so damn frustrated and tired of looking at your bank account and seeing five dollars left.
“No! We can’t! There’s no money there either,” you sighed, emotions starting to get the better of you as your throat grew tight and it just felt so off.
You were standing in the living room with nothing but a towel on. Any other time Eddie would’ve been on you in a second. Wrapping his arms around you and pulling you down into his lap. Pressing his lips to your neck, your collarbone and the curves of your hips, but instead you were arguing.
Eddie felt his chest squeeze with guilt, with the weight of all this stupid responsibility and the fact that it was all his fault. He was your boyfriend! He was supposed to take care of you! You were in this together and yet he wasn’t holding up his side of the deal and you were so upset and late for work and fighting and–
He swallowed thick, Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat, chewed his bottom lip between his teeth and held his breath.
“D’you regret it?” he asked, deep, brown eyes, flicking up to meet your own so hurt and sad, so fucking sorry.
Your stomach twisted. Flipped over with his question and your expression softened, “Regret it?“
“Yeah. Do you regret me?“
And with those four little words you felt your anger start to ebb.
Yeah. You were standing in your living room with just a towel on. No running water. Late for work and five dollars in your bank account, but the way he was looking at you made you hesitate. Had you sounded like you were done? Done enough that he thought you didn’t want to be with him anymore? And that’s when something in you shifted.
Your parents weren’t good for each other and your dad spent too much money and it made your mom so angry, but that wasn’t the only thing.
He didn’t listen to her.
Didn’t stay up late when she was worried and couldn’t sleep.
Didn’t run out to get a box of tampons when she got her period.
Didn’t ask her about her day and didn’t rub her feet and didn’t surprise her with pizza after a shitty day at work.
Didn’t tell her how much he loved her every single day. Didn’t kiss her once as he went out the door and again when he came back in to say how much he already missed her.
Eddie loved you, and yeah you were short on money, but you weren’t short on love. And at the end of the day? Even though love didn’t pay the bills, it sure as hell would help you figure it out. Because while money came and went, this kind of love didn’t.
Crossing the room still in your towel, you sat down next to Eddie on the couch. Took his hand in yours and held it tightly in your lap. “Eddie,” you said softly, taking his chin in your free hand and tilting it up so you could see him. “I would never regret this,” you said, hoping he understood just how serious you were. Hoping you heard every word you said, knowing that you meant it. “I just wish I could take a shower,“ you half-joked and he snorted, but then dropped his gaze back down to your hands.
God, the guilt was heavy.
“I’m really fucking sorry, babe.”
“S’okay,” you smiled, pressed a hand to his cheek and pulled his eyes back up to meet yours. “You just can’t buy the kids any more dice and you definitely don’t need any more manuals for hellfire. And maybe you can start learning how to brew your own beer?“ your tone teased him at the end and it pulled a little laugh out of him. “We’ll figure it out, right?”
“Yeah. I can pick up extra shifts at the bar and I’ll start putting my tips in a jar under the bed. A little savings in case the water gets turned off again,” he gave you a half-grimace, half-smile, “Too soon?”
“Too soon.”
“Sorry–listen–I’m part of this relationship too and I just wanna take care of you, honey,” and the way he was looking at you told you he couldn’t have been more serious.
“You always take care of me,“ you said leaning into him, resting your forehead against his and those unruly curls, “And I don’t regret it, Eds. Not even a little bit. “
And then Eddie closed the gap between you. Pressed his lips soft to yours in a quiet promise. Felt something plant itself in his chest and start to bloom and in that moment he knew he wanted to grow and not stay stagnant.
“I love you, sweetheart. I love you so damn much."
crappymixtape™ • eddie munson masterlist // stranger things masterlist
Tumblr media
88 notes · View notes
shakespearianne · 2 years
Text
How is that for a thank you ? || Eddie Munson x fem!reader (part. 1)
Pairing: Eddie Munson x fem!henderson!reader
Warning: 18+smut (minors dni), use of weed, swearing, mention of death, a bit of a spoiler for season 4 (fix-it fic)
part. 2 can be found here
Summary:
“I-I couldn’t sleep.”
That sentence earned her a chuckle as Eddie ran his free hand into his wild hair, the palm laying on the back of his neck. 
“Neither can I. Don’t really know why. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that we almost die while saving the world less than 48 hours ago.”
“You almost die. And I saved the world plus your ass.”
“And I am now forever indebted to you, my fearless Lady Knight. But do tell, to what do I owe the gift of your presence at my humble shack?”
“Well, lucky for you my good fellow. I think I know how you can start to repay me.” 
Tags: use of y/n, fem!reader, henderson!reader, reader is dustin older sister, reader saved eddie from the dermobats, and now she can't sleep so she goes to him, you can guess what happens next, use of weed, swearing, mention of death, ennemies to lovers, mild smut in part. 1 (making out, hickeys, hair pulling), heavier smut in part. 2 (dirty talk, oral (both m and f receiving), rough sex, choking, pet names, hair pulling, unprotected sex (wrap it before you tape it!!) switch!eddie, switch!reader, dumbasses in love), angst, but also fluff and tenderness, fix-it fic, season 4 ends very differently, reader is a theater kid and a Shakespeare fan.
Word count: 3.8k
A/N: I haven't written anything in like three years and I'm french so I apologize in advance for any typos or errors! but I just couldn't help myself. I mean... Eddie... Munson... so yeah, hope you enjoy it, and I'll see you for part. 2!!
Tumblr media
Y/N Henderson could not sleep. 
She had tried everything, counting sheep, reading, breathing exercises, swallowing half of her mother’s bottle of melatonin gummies and even listening to her favorite Fleetwood Mac record – their second eponymous album, her father’s last gift to her before he passed away. But even Stevie Nicks’ soothing voice was useless. Sleep was determined to escape her and every time she felt like she was on the verge of grasping it, the peaceful feeling would disappear, leaving her more and more exhausted as the hours went by.
A quick look at the electronic clock beside her bed informed her that it was now 1 a.m. and Y/N knew that she would not get any sleep this night, exactly like the one before. Truth to be told, she hadn’t been able to get a decent rest since they had been back from the Upside Down, a few days ago. Memories haunted her. Nancy, with white pupils and a stiff body. Robin, usually so talkative, but quiet as the grave she then believed they would all end into, as the two girls were putting the Molotov cocktails together. Steve, squeezing her shoulder one more time before going to the Creel House to burn Vecna to the ground, with a tender look in his eyes that made Y/N realize that they might not see each other again. Her little brother, her own blood, Dustin, screaming in terror as the dermobats made their way into the trailer. And Eddie…
Eddie, cutting the rope between the two worlds. Eddie, announcing that he was buying them more time. Eddie, riding to distract Vecna’s creatures away from them. Eddie, alone, surrounding by screeching bats, Eddie getting beaten, Eddie getting choked, Eddie tumbling on the ground…
Y/N felt a shiver roaming her entire body and tears started to build up inside her throat. She could not live this terrible moment again. She refused it. But the memory would not leave her in peace. It would find her, again and again, plaguing her. Every single detail was so deeply engraved in her very being that Y/N knew that she could live a hundred years and never forget what had happened that day.
She ran. 
Towards him.
She could hear Dustin calling her, but it was cloudy, as if her little brother was so far away from her.
Nothing mattered.
Excepting him.
Him and his stupid rings, his stupid hair, his stupid guitar solo and his stupid foolish oh so ridiculously heroic ideas. 
Y/N bluntly got up and without thinking, she started to strip from her pajamas (which consisted of an old Bowie tee-shirt and shorts) and started to get dressed. She kept the tee-shirt, put her favorite pair of high-waisted black pants, a jean jacket that once belonged to her dad and laced up her old Dr Martens boots. She knew what she had to do, where she had to go and who she had to see. But first, she needed to get out of her house without waking everybody up.
Y/N had never been happier that her parents decided to buy a one-story house as she carefully opened her window and exited her bedroom. She gently landed on the grass and started to jog towards the garage. She could not use the car; the noise would surely wake her mother up. So, at the ripe age of 18, Y/N found herself using her old bike, to go to a boy’s house. The thought would have made her chuckle in another circumstance, as she rode through Hawkins, finding her way back to the trailer park. The night was surprisingly warm, but as she arrived at her goal, she shivered again. Maybe it wasn’t such a good idea after all, maybe it was a terrible mistake, maybe his uncle was here or maybe he was not here or maybe he would not want to see her or-
But still, she knocked and waited anxiously for an answer. The answer came a few seconds later, as she heard a very distinct voice starting to grunt behind the closed door.
“Jesus H. Christ, who the fuck has nothing better to do in the middle of the night than- “
Eddie stopped as soon as he saw her, the door’s handle still in his hand. His brows lightly furrowed, his full lips parting as the rest of his sentence died in his throat. But it was his eyes that caught her breath. His deep brown eyes were full of an emotion that Y/N could not quite describe – there was surprise in there, for sure, but something else, something unsure, like an unspoken question. 
“Hi.” She simply said.
“Hi.” He responded, his lips now forming a soft smile
“I-I couldn’t sleep.”
That sentence earned her a chuckle as Eddie ran his free hand into his wild hair, the palm laying on the back of his neck. 
“Neither can I. Don’t really know why. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that we almost die while saving the world less than 48 hours ago.”
“You almost die.” She observed, folding her arms with a smirk “And I saved the world plus your ass.”
“And I am now forever indebted to you, my fearless Lady Knight.” Eddie bowed as he spoke, one hand over his heart as the other laid behind his back. “But do tell, to what do I owe the gift of your presence at my humble shack?”
His smile was now mischievous, and Y/N felt an unfamiliar knot forming in her stomach. She was suddenly grateful that the night might hide whatever shade of red had now spread out on her cheeks. She mentally cursed herself for being so… responsive and hawked to regain her composure before talking again.
“Well, lucky for you my good fellow. I think I know how you can start to repay me.” 
______________________________________________________________
“Wait, you actually got Mrs O’Donnell to apologize?”
Y/N burst into laughter as Eddie suddenly repositioned himself on the couch, sitting on one of his legs to face her. She took another drag of the joint, enjoying the delicate feeling of the heavy smoke leaving her mouth to vanish into the trailer. A Black Sabbath record was playing, Eddie had insisted that smoking weed and listening to music were indivisible and strictly refused to let her choose whatever they would be listening to. “I provide the weed; I get to choose the atmosphere.” He had said and she had simply agreed, knowing that this battle was already lost.
“And rightfully so! She kept arguing that I did not understand anything about Hamlet’s monologue when it’s that fuckin’ stuck-up bitch that teaches Literature despite being completely obvious to the true meaning of William fuckin’ Shakespeare’s greatest work!”
She was extraordinary pretty when talking about something that was clearly a passion of hers, Eddie noticed. Not that Y/N wasn’t beautiful otherwise. Eddie was not completely blind to the fact that Dustin’s older sister was exquisitely charming. It was not just her looks but also the way she carried herself into the world, confident yet accessible. She was funny, a lot more than Eddie would ever admit out loud, and she was never ashamed of anything. She had proudly defended her little brother when he joined Hellfire, even offering that the club could use the classroom where the drama team created and kept their sets and accessories. Eddie knew that her family, given and chosen, meant everything to Y/N and the past few days had shown him how far she was willing to go in order to protect those she loved. 
So, yeah, the saying “True beauty comes from within” wasn’t a lie when talking about Y/N Henderson. But her beauty wasn’t just the consequence of her good nature. She was smoking hot, especially with that slightly otherwise David Bowie tee-shirt – ok, her music tastes were not that bad, although not metal enough to Eddie’s taste – that was kind enough to be a little loose at the top, offering the sight of a naked shoulder. 
But there was a sparkle in her eyes tonight that Eddie had never seen before. Well, perhaps that wasn’t true. Because the way she was talking – fast, with her hands dancing before her face like she was tracing mysterious shapes into the air and a voice that was higher than usual – her demeanor reminded him of another situation where she had shown a similar behavior. 
She was running.
She was running towards him.
He wanted to scream, to forbid her to come close because he knew, as he saw her figure coming closer and closer to where he was laying, fighting, screaming; he knew that she was also running towards a certain death.
But still, she ran. 
Eddie shook his head slightly, trying to banish the thought. But it was proving incredibly difficult, especially as the person who had occupied the entirety of his mind for the last few days and who had played the leading role in the memory that he was struggling to forget, was sitting so close to him. Even when they had brought him back from the Upside Down, wounded and barely standing, he wanted to make sure she was fine. Even when the cops had interrogated him for hours, finally leaving him be as they decided that he wasn’t so guilty after all, and that Jason Carver might had been the gruesome killer (Eddie did not know who to thank for this sudden change of heart from Hawkins police but he had a gut feeling that the order might had come from superior authorities), Eddie’s only worry had been that Dustin and her would suffer from being with him when he was brought to the hospital. She had been the only constant element in this chaotic moment and now she was smoking with him, more carefree and relaxed than he had ever saw her before. 
How she had picked the shield and the spears from the ground without hesitation and launched herself towards the dermobats.
How she had roared at them, protecting Eddie with her own body.
“YOU WILL NOT TOUCH HIM, YOU DIRTY FUCKS”.
And how much Eddied had hated himself at this very moment because it was him who was supposed to protect her, not the other way around. He was supposed to be the hero, not a fuckin’ damsel in distress. 
“Earth to Munson? Are you there?” It was her voice who pulled him back to reality.
“Y-Yeah, sorry ‘bout that” He picked the joint from her fingers, feeling the need for a puff “I was just busy thinking… what is the true meaning of William fuckin’ Shakespeare greatest’s work?”
Y/N chuckled, and Eddie knew it was his new favorite sound. She took the joint back, took the last drag before gently pressing it in the ashtray that was laying between them. She mimicked his posture, and they were now face to face, each with an arm laying on the back of the couch and Eddie realized that their hands were so close that, if he wanted, he could graze her fingers without even reaching. 
“Well, Hamlet is… not the happiest dude of Denmark.”
“Understandably.” Eddie assented “I mean, didn’t his mom fucked his uncle and killed his dad?”
“Yeah, yeah she did.” Y/N shot a smile so bright that Eddie mentally thanked his junior self for actually reading the damn play “So, we got this poor kid who, if you want my honest opinion, was already dealing with a lot of shit. But now, he sees his dead father’s ghost and he realizes that everything he thought to be true was a lie.”
“Like discovering that your town sits on the top of another dimension.” Eddie couldn’t help but joking, knowing it would earn him another precious smile, but this time it came accompanied by a giggle.  
“Exactly. Except we have electricity, and you are no Prince of Denmark.” Y/N responded fondly, nestling her face in her hand, resting her elbow on the couch.
“But I am the Prince of Metal, am I not?” He winked and Y/N rolled her eyes
“Shut up Munson, you’re barely a peasant.” But he couldn’t help but notice that she was biting her lips, suppressing another laughter 
“Oh come on Henderson! Don’t tell me you didn’t think that my inter-dimensional rendition of Master of Puppets was out of this world!”
“Yeah, it was-“ she finally admitted
“Aha !”
“-because we were literally in another world, you moron!”
An outbreak of laughter found them as their shared hilarity took over for a few minutes. Eddie couldn’t remember the last time he had laughed so genuinely, so easily. It was not the weed, it couldn’t be. There was something else here, something without a name and Eddie found himself wondering if, perhaps, he had indeed died in the Upside Down and all of this was just a dream. A very nice, extremely pleasant dream.
“Anyway, let’s get back to the Bard!” Y/N exclaimed, clapping her hands
“Wow wow wow, what does Dustin’s D&D character has to do with anything?” Eddie rose an eyebrow while taking a cigarette from the pack that was laying on the ground
“I am not talking about Nog the Noble!” 
Y/N sighed and took the cig from Eddie’s mouth. He would’ve stopped her if it wasn’t for the fact that, contrary to what he had first believed, she did not throw it away like she had done on the boat when Steve was getting ready for his big swim. She simply placed it between her delicate lips and used her hand to signal Eddie that she was waiting for him to light it for her. Which he did, a bit more clumsily than he had wished. But being just a few inches away from her face, along with the fact that she did not tear her eyes away from him as the flame appeared, bathing her in a golden light, that only added to the jitters that he was already feeling. She took a long drag and tilted her head backwards as she slowly exhaled the smoke. The tension that Eddied had been feeling more and more acutely these past minutes was now starting to build up in a very specific part of his body and he looked away.
“You do know that Shakespeare is also known as the Bard, don’t you?”
“Of course I do, I’m not a complete imbecile, contrary to what you obviously believe.”
He didn't intended his words to sound so harsh. A flash of sadness passed into Y/N’s eyes and Eddie cursed himself for it. 
“Well perhaps I wouldn’t take you for a complete imbecile if you didn’t act like one.” She retorted, her voice now cold as ice. “What you did the other day… Fuck Munson, were you even thinking?”
“You mean when I basically saved you and your darling brother from a certain death?” He couldn’t help the words from pouring out of his mouth, despise knowing how wrong they were.
“Oh yeah, because staying behind to play the hero did not put us into danger at all.” She was now standing up, looking at him with her teeth clenched and an anger that made her even more attractive
“Well maybe it wouldn’t have if you two had stayed safe instead of coming back-“
Eddie abruptly rose, walking away from her 
“We came back to save you, you pretentious fuck!” 
“I did not need saving!” He snapped, turning around.
He saw the injuries, crimson patches on her body.
She was hurt. 
She was bleeding.
She was… crying? 
And it was all because of him. 
“How could you be so stupid ?!” She had screamed once the bats had suddenly fallen, a clear indication that Vecna had been defeated. “That was not part of the plan!”
“Y/N…” Dustin had tried to calm her down, but she couldn’t be reasoned “Don’t scream at him, he almost died! For us!”
“And that was completely unnecessary !!!” She was kneeling before him, her hands gripping his shoulders so tightly that Eddie would have winced, where he not already in great pain. “You have no right to do that, Munson! You have no right to decide you wanna be a fuckin’ martyr!”
She would have kept going, yelling at him until her voice went hoarse, if their friends hadn’t stopped her from doing so. Eddie thought that she looked like she was about to kill him herself, and he understood her fury. But what was disconcerting to him was the fact that, more than angry, she had seemed scared. Petrified, even.
But that was just because he had put Dustin’s life in danger by acting so recklessly, right?
She couldn’t be worried for him, could she?
______________________________________________________________
Y/N was fuming. She had come to him to take her mind off everything that had happened and now they were talking about it. No, not talking but quarreling like children. But it was what they did, right? It had always been like that between them, ever since Dustin had joined Hellfire. She would drop her little brother off, share a few cutting remarks with the dungeon master and then pick Dustin up at the end of the session. Eddie would make fun of her for putting so much time and energy into Hawkins High drama club and she would sass back, saying that what they did was like roleplay, except they were all talented at it and the writing was better. Even when they had come together with the rest of the group, in the hopes of defeating Vecna, their feud had carried on. That was their bond. A fragile balance between sarcasm, understanding and a sort of mutual esteem. But they never took it too far, as if they both understood that this equilibrium would be easily shattered if one of them would cross the unspoken line between them. They would jab, but never actually punch. Until today.
“Well you could have said it before then!” Y/N hated how high her voice sounded when she was starting to get emotional but she refused to surrender “So that I would not have bothered to risk my life, and Dustin’s, for you!”
“I risked my life for the both of you!” Eddied hissed, taking a step towards Y/N, who hadn’t realized how close their bodies now were. “I almost died so that Dustin, and you, could get back to your Momma’s house safely!!”
“You were supposed to come back with us, that was the plan!” They were now inches apart and Y/N could feel Eddie’s erratic breath on her face. His eyes, once a warm brown, were now almost black and a small part of her was curious to know if anger was the only emotion that would dilate his pupils that much.
“The plan would have gotten you killed!” His scent was also surrounding her, a blend of cold cigarettes, cheap cologne and something woody that Y/N couldn’t quite name.
“Well not following the plan almost got you killed!” She yelled, the edge of her right fist sharply hitting Eddie in the chest, right where his W.A.S.P. badge was. The pain of the violent contact made her grimace, but she ignored it.
“Lucky for me, Y/N Henderson the Mighty was here to save the day!” Eddie was now provoking her, raising his hands as if he was thanking an invisible deity “But do not lie to me, sweetheart, you and I both know you acted on pure instinct.” In his mouth, as this very moment, the pet name sounded everything but affectionate “I bet you don’t even know why you saved me.”
“You know what, Munson?” The young woman seethed, now gripping his jean vest with both of her hands, fisting the material. “You’re right. I really haven’t the faintest idea on why I risked my life to save your sorry ass, because you can’t even say thank you.”
“How is that for a thank you?!”
Y/N barely had the time to register what Eddie was saying before she felt his lips on hers. The kiss was harsh, brutal, a battle of tongue and teeth, each of them trying to claim dominance over the other. Y/N’s hands found their way into the brunette’s messy mane, her fingers grasping every fiber she possibly could. Eddie wrapped his arms around her, embracing her like he wanted their bodies to melt together and as Y/N urged her frame into Eddie’s, she felt a very distinct bump where his crotch was. The feeling was intoxicating and the crusade restless, neither of the opponents ready to admit defeat. Y/N perceived that the heat that was once spreading on her cheeks was now occurring in a very different component of her anatomy. A familiar sensitivity, that would soon be joined by dampness. And if Y/N was honest with herself, the sensation had lately been caused solely by the very man whose inferior lips she was now biting, earning a growl from him. 
“You’ll have to do much better than that, Munson.” She could barely recognize her own voice, as she parted from him, already drunk on the kiss. She lightly pulled his hair to get a better look at his face – damn, he was really something with pupils so blown that his eyes now appeared almost black and lips already red and slightly swollen, panting as his own hands were now brushing Y/N’s sides. “I saved your stupid life and all you have for me is a kiss?”
“Oh, do not worry, princess.” Eddie’s inflection was dangerously low and Y/N had to repress a moan as she felt his left hand sneak in under the fabric of her shirt, cold rings on burning skin. “This is just the beginning. I don’t think you’re actually ready for what comes next.” His teeth were now grazing the delicate skin of her neck, nibbling and suctioning the soft flesh with lust, his lips mapping a route of delicate bruises.
“I think you’re all bark and no bite, Munson.” Y/N daintily nipped the metalhead’s ear and he growled in response. “I think I should leave and find someone who can actually handle me because I know you can’t.”
“Fuckin” Christ” Eddie snarled, his lips meeting her mouth once again “Don’t you ever shut up ?!”
“Fuckin’ make me.” Y/N spewed, commanding yet also begging. She wanted this, wanted him. There was no point in denying it now, she didn’t came to Eddie Munson for a joint, a night of chit-chat or of shared traumas. She came to him to drop the guard, whatever defenses she had erected around her because, and she was realizing it now, she had been so scared of losing him that she couldn’t bear to keep on living as if he had no effect on her. As if he meant nothing. Because that would have been a lie. A terrible, terrible lie. 
795 notes · View notes
Text
Tumblr media Tumblr media
**Series Masterlist is available on the Fic Menu pinned to the top of my blog. Please Fix this link shit Tumblr**
TW: Smut-tacular Smut, Angst, Casual Drug Use, NSFW 18+
Beta’d by @superblysubpar AN: See End of Chapter Word Count 21,074
Series Masterlist
Tumblr media
“Where are you two headed?” Steve asks, leaning against the kitchen island, raising a coffee mug to his lips. 
“We’re going to look at the car,” you say, beaming proudly. The long hours and careful saving are finally going to pay off. As much as you appreciated both boys driving you around, you can’t wait to be more self-reliant. This is a step in the right direction. Placing your purse on the island, you start going through its contents, making sure you have everything you’ll need. 
“Need any help?” Steve directs the question to you, but Eddie answers instead.
“I’ve got it covered, Harrington,” Eddie states in a flat voice as he pulls out two black travel mugs from the cabinet and moves around Steve to fill them with coffee. 
“Oh, yeah?” Steve turns to face him, crossing his arms over his chest, “What do you have in mind?”
“Well, It’s not a BMW, but there’s a used Pinto over at Kent’s car lot. I think it will be a good size for her, and it’s in her price range,” Eddie adds a little sugar from the bowl on the counter before snapping the lids closed.
“You’re kidding, right?” Steve sets his mug down on the counter and puts his hands on his hips, “You can’t put her in one of those. They aren’t safe.”
“Like I said, I’ve got this covered,” Eddie says, squaring up to him.
“It’s fine, Steve,” you say, trying to lower the temperature.
“It’s not fine,” Steve says, not taking his eyes off Eddie, “Those cars explode when they’re hit from behind. Something about the gas tank.”
“It’s what she can afford. Okay, money bags?” Eddie’s baiting him. Something has been off since the night Steve picked you up at work. Eddie’s been tense, paying closer attention to your comings and goings. 
“Then she can wait a few more weeks until she can get something else. I’ll drive her. She’s not getting in one of those death traps,” Steve fumes, taking a step toward Eddie. 
“I think we have had enough of your taxi services,” Eddie retorts, narrowing his eyes.
Dropping the checkbook you’re holding, you rush around the islands and hook your arm around Eddie’s elbow, “Eddie, come on,” you gently pull him back from Steve, “we’ll figure it out.”
He lets you pull him around the island, where you quickly grab your purse before heading towards the door.
“Don’t go to Kent’s. Go to Martin’s, you’ll get a better deal. They’ll haggle. Look for an Oldsmobile,” Steve calls after you.
“Thanks, Steve,” you say, giving him a look over your shoulder.
When you get in the van, Eddie grips the steering wheel and stares down at the dash. His knuckles turn white, and he shakes his head. 
“He’s just trying to be helpful,” you say quietly.
“Maybe he should go with you,” he turns his head to look at you.
Clicking off your seatbelt, you climb over the console into his lap,” I want you to take me, okay?” you press a few small kisses to his lips before he finally kisses you back. 
“Okay?” you ask again, rubbing his shoulders.
“Okay,” he softly pats your thigh, “you better get buckled in before safety officer squarehead sees you and has an aneurysm.”
Laughing, you kiss him again before returning to your seat. The van’s engine rumbles to life, and Queensryche blasts from the speakers. 
“Where are we going?” you ask as he drives towards town.
“Martin’s,” he sighs, drumming his hand on top of the wheel.
♡♡♡
“So, what do you think?” Eddie asks from the passenger seat. The wind from the open window blows his curls as you zoom down the deserted road surrounded by woods on the edge of town. 
Unable to keep up your poker face, you let the smile take over, “I love it,” you say, admiring the blue velvet interior of the Cutlass. The trees shade the road as you press your foot down on the gas, speeding along under their canopy.
“Easy now, speed racer. You haven’t signed for it yet,” he scolds with a smile playing on his lips. 
The tires crunch over loose asphalt as you pull onto the shoulder and turn the key in the ignition. Pushing up the armrest, you slide across the bench seat and straddle his lap, “I thought you liked to go fast,” you whisper before nipping at his neck. 
His hands slide down your hips until he’s squeezing your ass, “You really like this car,” he chuckles.
“Uh-huh,” you nod as you pull your shirt over your head and lean down to seal your mouth over his. 
“What do you think?” you ask between kisses. 
“I think,” his hands move to your breasts, kneading them over your bra, “that it looks like a little old lady’s car.”
“Hey,” you swat his hands off your chest. 
He laughs before leaning forward and burying his face in your cleavage. Placing your hands on his jaw, you tip his head back, “What do you really think?”
“It’s going to wipe out your savings after you buy insurance, but if you like it, you should get it.”
The leaves rustle softly as a light breeze blows through. A few of his curls flutter around your cheeks as you kiss, tickling your skin. 
“We haven’t checked out the backseat yet,” you say, grinding on his lap.
“We should be thorough,” his fingers glide down your shoulder, taking your bra strap with them. 
“Do our due diligence,” you agree, pulling on the lever that opens the door. Scooting off his lap, you climb out and open the back door. Reaching behind your back, you unclasp your bra before ducking into the backseat, Eddie following right behind you, unbuckling his belt and pulling off his shirt. 
He slips off your bra, balls it up, and tosses it into the front seat before maneuvering you onto your back and climbing over you until he’s cradled between your legs. 
“Roomy,” he says, looking around before closing his mouth over your nipple, laving it with his tongue, and gently biting down. 
“Yes, Eddie,” you moan, rolling your hips, seeking out some friction.
He’s working on your other breast when he stops suddenly, “Where did you go the other night when Steve picked you up from work?” 
His question catches you off guard. “What do you mean?” you ask, your stomach tenses and burns with nerves, “I came home.”
“Two hours after Enzo’s closed,” his face is entirely blank, disguising his feelings.
“I didn’t go anywhere. I got out a little late, and Steve wanted to talk, so he just drove around,” you loathe how easily the lies roll off your tongue. 
“Oh yeah?” his tone is measured and even giving nothing away, “Did he talk about that girl he brought home from the church? She seemed to enjoy herself. I keep meaning to ask him how she was,” he’s testing you, gauging your reaction.
“He didn’t bring her up.”
“No? Well, Steve’s fucked a lot of girls. He probably can’t tell one pussy from another.”
“Steve’s not going to talk to me about his sex life, Eddie,” irritation creeps into your voice.
“Why not? You two are such good friends now,” the sarcasm drips from his voice as he pulls himself off you.
“We better get back,” he opens the door and pushes out of the backseat, “We don’t want anyone thinking we stole their car,” he says, buckling his belt. He opens the front passenger door and reaches in to grab your clothes. He tosses them to you, leaving you to wonder what just happened.
♡♡♡
"Mmmmm," Steve hums, wrapping his arms around your shoulders from behind as you stand at the kitchen sink rinsing some ripe berries in a colander.
"I love being able to do this," he kisses down your temple, and you spin in his arms, abandoning your task. His mouth tastes minty and fresh as you slide your tongue inside. It doesn't feel wrong being with Steve, the same way it doesn't feel wrong being with Eddie. Loving them is as natural as breathing. There hasn't been any sex since the night at Weathertop. He hasn't pushed, content to hold and kiss you. And there has been lots of kissing. His hands are in your hair as he backs you against the counter, kissing you until you both need to come up for air.  
"Good morning," he says, pressing his soft lips to yours a few more times. 
"You're in a good mood this morning," you note the crisp, light blue button-down he has tucked into his jeans, a little more formal than he usually dresses.
"There's a beautiful woman that I'm crazy in love with in my kitchen," his fingers dip under the hem of your shirt, stroking the skin just above your shorts, "And I get to kiss her while she makes fruit salad," he reaches behind you stealing a couple blueberries, popping one in his mouth before offering the other one to you. Your lips close around his fingers as he places the berry on your tongue. The tart juice bursts into your mouth as you bite down.
"She loves you right back," you stretch to kiss him, the blueberry flavor coating your mouths. 
"Are you hungry? Can I make you some breakfast?" you ask, straightening his collar.
"I'm starving, actually, and I would love that if you don't mind," he says, grabbing a few more pieces of fruit. 
"What would you like?" you're thrilled his appetite has returned.
"Umm, how about some scrambled eggs?"
"You got it," happily, you walk to the fridge to retrieve the egg carton.
"I'll put in some toast. Want any?" he asks with his head in the pantry. 
"I already ate," you say, cracking an egg into a bowl. He makes himself a cup of coffee and drinks it leaning against the island watching you cook. Once everything is ready, you join him at the breakfast table.
"Do you need anything else for the party? I can stop when I'm out," he scoops some eggs onto his toast before taking a bite.
"Nope. We have everything," you went shopping yesterday, driving yourself in your new car. The school year was over, and everyone was coming over to hang out by the pool to celebrate. They had let Eddie walk at graduation despite him having to take one makeup class over the summer. Eddie invited Dustin and Nancy's little brother, who is bringing his girlfriend with them. 
"Where are you going looking so handsome?" you ask smiling, leaning your elbow on the table and propping your head in your hand. The collar of his dress shirt is open, and you can see a hint of dark hair at the edge of his white undershirt.
His cheeks tint pink as he finishes chewing, "I hate missing a chance to be alone with you, but I sort of have a job interview," he sets down his fork and turns his body toward you, "I'm meeting with the town manager and the head of the rec department."
"Whoa, that sounds important."
"The town's taking some of the disaster relief funds and building a new community center. A few of the town council members worked with me at the shelter and they asked if I'd be interested in working there," he picks up the hand you have resting on your thigh and fidgets with your fingers, "maybe even running it." 
"That's great, Steve. It sounds like a big opportunity. Is that something you're interested in?" you've seen Steve with Dustin and his other friends, he really cares for them, and they all look to him for guidance. 
"I'd probably have to take a few college classes, and I'll miss working with Robin, but this is the kind of work I can be proud of," he looks into your eyes, "I'd make enough to support a family."
"Is that what you want?" you ask, unsure how to feel. He's hinting about children when you're still trying to get through this without hurting anyone.
"Definitely," he says without any hesitation, "Do you?"
"Yeah, someday."
He squeezes your hand, happiness glowing on his face. He stands and leans over to kiss you, "I'll be back to help as soon as I can," he takes his plate to the sink and picks up his keys from the island. 
"Good luck," you call after him as he leaves the kitchen while you sit at the table, looking out the window, feeling a bit dizzy.
♡♡♡
There couldn’t have been a better day for a pool party. The hot afternoon sun burned away the few clouds leaving the sky clear and blue. The red line on the thermometer hovers in the high eighties. Summer songs playing through the radio float in the air mixing with the sounds of your friends laughing and enjoying the pool. 
The doorbell started ringing about an hour ago, with everyone showing up at roughly the same time. All of you had been relishing the beautiful weather and the company when you decided it was time to bring out the food. With your flip-flops clapping against the kitchen floor, you load up your arms with bowls of chips and fruit salad. 
“I really like your suit,” Steve whispers as he leans toward you, picking up the tray of sandwiches he helped you put together earlier. The bikini you have on is not as modest as what Nancy and Robin are wearing. At first, you considered changing, worried that you looked a little slutty in comparison, but Steve and Eddie seemed to appreciate it, so you decided to just go with it.
“You aren’t looking so bad yourself,” you wink, taking in his board shorts and sun-kissed shoulders dotted with freckles, a few hours of sun already giving him a golden glow. He follows behind you, putting his tray on the table he’d set up near the house, and you’re almost instantly swarmed by hungry teenage boys - not shy about helping themselves.
Steve had returned from his meeting cautiously optimistic. The interview went well, and they will let him know if they plan on hiring him sometime this week. After he’d changed, you watched him from the kitchen window with a smile and heated cheeks as he pulled out more patio furniture for the party, muscles flexing, a little sweat running through the patch of chest hair. Besides adding extra loungers and deck chairs, he set up two bistro tables with green umbrellas at each end of the patio, creating two separate seating areas. And a separate table for food and a makeshift bar for drinks that Eddie was working at right now. 
He also looks good, his hair tied back at the nape of his neck, his chest full of tattoos on full display as he fills a cooler with ice for soda and beer. Your fingers are very familiar with those smooth planes of pale skin and the way to get his muscles to jump under your touch. He finishes making sure cups, and more ice are easily accessible before taking care of the trash. Grabbing a can of spirit, he ambles over to one of the tables and sits down with a sigh wiping away a little sweat.
“Anyone want to light up?” Eddie asks, pulling a joint and a lighter from his half-empty pack of cigarettes. 
“I’m in,” Jonathan waves a hand in the air, walking away from the small table on the other side of the patio, where he was eating with Nancy and Robin. 
“Baby?” Eddie asks, eyeing you where you stand next to Steve, scooping some fruit into a paper bowl and handing it to Jane, who seems a little shy around you, but accepts it gratefully.
“Coming,” you call, handing Steve the spoon to finish serving alone, “What do you say, Robin?”
“Me?” Robin points to herself, surprised by your invitation.
“Yeah, I need a partner in crime,” you say, waving her over. Robin has been very kind, considering the sticky situation she’s gotten mixed up in, and you’ve really taken a shine to her. It was nice feeling like they weren’t just Eddie’s friends but yours as well. 
“She can’t even be around a cigarette without passing out,” Steve teases as he fills his plate with food. 
“This is better. All natural. Come on over, Buckley. I’ll teach you,” Eddie encourages, shooting a look at Steve.
“Okay, fine,” Robin acquiesces, getting up from her seat and carrying her plate to one of the trash cans. 
“I’m not taking care of you if you don’t like it,” Steve warns as he passes her on his way to sit with Nancy.
“Yes, you will,” she says over her shoulder.
“Yeah, I will,” Steve laughs, taking a seat in her vacant chair and tucking into one of the sandwiches.
Cool water lands on your warm legs when Dustin splashes as you walk along the edge of the pool to the table where Eddie is sitting, “I thought you are supposed to be a good influence,” he scolds.
“Who told you that?” you laugh. 
Kicking off your flip-flops, you let Eddie pull you into his lap, leaving the free seat for Robin. It’s nice to have your arm around his shoulder, his hand resting on your thigh. The distance between you has been growing. Mike tries to look inconspicuous as he meanders behind Robin, leaving Jane to join Dustin in the pool.
“I don’t think so, Mike,” Nancy says from her spot in the shade.
“Come on, Nance. You’re not mom,” Mike says, not even bothering to turn around to her as he speaks.
“Hey Eddie,” Nancy says, her voice sounding sinister, “do you remember what I keep in the shoebox in my closet?”
“Why, yes I do, lady Wheeler,” Eddie says sweetly, “Sorry, Mike. Maybe another time,” he waves the younger boy away. Nancy sips her drink with a satisfied smile. 
“What’s she have in there, dude? Your balls?” Mike asks, clearly annoyed with Eddie siding with his sister.
“Your sister scares the shit out of me,” Eddie admits, “She could hide a body and never get caught.” 
Jonathan chuckles at the assessment of his girlfriend while he sips his drink, “She definitely could.”
“Did you eat?” you ask Eddie as Robin settles herself in the seat beside you.
“I will after this,” he says, squeezing your hip, “You did a nice job getting everything ready.” Robin and Jonathan both shake their heads and murmur their agreement. 
“Thanks,” you say, planting your lips on the apple of his cheek and appreciating his sweet compliment. His words have had a sharp edge since the day you purchased the car, and it’s been even colder in bed. 
“Are you ready for this, Buckley?” Eddie smiles at her as he lights the joint and inhales, holding the smoke in before exhaling. He hands you the joint and explains the finer details to Robin as you take a long drag before passing it on to Jonathan. As you hold it in, the smoke swirls in your lungs, letting the effects lull you into calm. 
Robin takes the smoking joint from Jonathan between two fingers and eyes it suspiciously before taking a small puff. She tries to hold in the smoke the way Eddie explained but ends up coughing it out. She hands the joint back to Eddie and continues hacking like a two-pack-a-day smoker. Jumping up, you grab a drink from the cooler, opening it before you set it in front of her and rub a circle on her back. 
“How do you do that without coughing up a lung?” she asks once she’s caught her breath and chugged down the drink. 
“It’s your first time. You’ll get used to it,” Eddie assures her as he passes the joint along, “You’re going to make it, right Buckley?”
“Nope. I’m done,” she says, getting up, “Let’s just get plastered next time,” she pats your shoulder.
“You got it. Sorry, Robin,” you say sheepishly. She waves you off and joins the others in the pool. 
Taking her seat, you place your legs in Eddie’s lap. His elegant fingers wrap around your knee, occasionally smoothing their way up the length of your thigh as the three of you finish off the joint. Eddie and Jonathan are having an in-depth discussion on the quality of weed available in Hawkins compared to the west coast, but you tune them out, instead watching the younger kids’ antics. Mike is standing on the end of the diving board announcing the overly complicated dive he’s about to attempt, but then belly-flops into the water, splashing Jane as she bursts into giggles. 
“I’m going to get some food,” Eddie says, gently nudging off your legs before standing. He leans down to brush your lips and surprises you by sliding his tongue into your mouth, deepening the kiss. Jonathan gets up and wanders back to Nancy, possibly feeling awkward witnessing the intimate moment.
Deciding not to stay at the table alone, you walk over to one of the loungers and stretch out, closing your eyes, letting the sun heat your skin, and the fuzzy edges of your brain push away any lingering worries as you enjoy the peaceful high. Someone takes the lounger beside you, and you don’t have to open your eyes to know it’s Steve. 
“Stop,” your lips spread into a grin as you feel his eyes moving over your body.
“What?” his playful voice confirming your suspensions.
“You know what,” opening one eye, you peek at him in time to watch him push his sunglasses up his nose and stretch out his arms, muscles contracting as he locks them behind his head before he turns his face towards the sky, savoring the afternoon sun. The two of you don’t talk, pleased to just be near one another, listening to your friends’ conversations going on around you. 
Nancy has been telling Robin about her college plans at Emerson and how she hopes Robin will come to visit when Mike and Eddie casually approach them. Mike tries pushing Nancy into the pool, but it ends up with both of them falling over the edge. Eddie simply picks up Robin and tosses her in before yelling a word of warning and cannonballing in after her. The pair have settled into a friendship akin to siblings, and you can’t help laughing watching them interact. 
Steve turns his smiling face toward you after chuckling over their silliness. This is truly one of those times you wish you could freeze things as they are. The important people in your life gathered close on a summer day. His eyes hold yours, and you know what he’s thinking, this is the kind of life you could have together. Closing your eyes, you lean back and let your mind work on the answers. A few drops of water land on your stomach.
“Come in the water with me, baby,” Eddie calls from the pool. 
Sitting up, you pull your knees up to your chest, “I’m not hot enough yet,” you watch him push his wet bangs off his face.
“You look plenty hot to me,” he wiggles his eyebrows, both his arms rest on the pavers that line the edge of the pool in front of your lounger.
Steve doesn’t move or turn his head, but you almost hear his thoughts asking you to stay with him, to choose him, while Eddie asks you to do the same. Stress returns, killing your high. 
Pulling the scrunchie off your wrist, you tie up your hair before getting up to join Eddie in the pool. For the first time, you question whether your decision is based on your guilt for lying to him or because you want to be with him. You’re always hurting one of them, and you hate yourself for it. 
Eddie takes your hand and pulls you through the water until your body is against his, and he can wrap his arms around you. Steve gets up and strides into the house, closing the slider with more force than usual. Eddie kisses you softly, and you smile, but you can’t help looking at the glass door that Steve just walked through.
Jane and Mike take up the loungers you and Steve had vacated while everyone else cools off in the water. Jonathan and Nancy are sharing a donut-shaped float kicking their feet gently to propel themselves around the pool, and Robin is trying to catch Dustin off guard, so she can dunk him. 
“They make a cute couple,” you comment to Eddie as you watch Mike and Jane talking. He takes her hand and holds it across the space between their seats.
“You think?” Eddie follows your gaze considering your statement. There was something different about Jane that you found interesting. When you first met her, you mentioned it to Eddie, and he chalked it up to her being Hopper’s daughter, but you’re certain that’s not it. 
“I’m going to go inside for a minute,” you say, untangling yourself from him, “I need the ladies.”
“You better go then. We don’t want any P in this ool,” he smacks your butt as you lift yourself out of the water. 
“You’re so cheesy,” you laugh, grabbing a towel to dry off. 
“You love it,” he says, turning back to the others, “Mike come here so I can drown you.”
Walking inside barefoot with a towel around your waist, you try not to drip water all over the floor as you look for Steve. He is in one of the downstairs bathrooms leaning against the vanity, looking at his reflection in the mirror. Your arms move around his waist from behind, and you place small kisses on his spine. 
“I’m alright,” he says, covering one of your hands with his, “I just need…I don’t know what I need,” he turns in your arms and brushes your cheek, “Do you?”
You’re aware of what he’s asking, and you wish you could say what he wants to hear, “No,” you say gently, shaking your head. 
“That’s okay,” he kisses your forehead, “You’re worth the wait.”
But as the guilt eats away at you like rust on metal, you’re starting to doubt if you’re worth it for either of them, “You’re catching some sun,” your hand runs down his chest, “Don’t let yourself burn, okay? I have to get back.”
A quick kiss ends your conversation, and you hurry back outside before you’re missed. Moving to the edge of the pool, you sit down on the pavers. Eddie comes to help you slip into the water. He wraps your legs around his waist, steers you down to the pool’s unoccupied end, and crowds you against the side.
“I’ve been wanting to get you alone all afternoon,” he licks away a drop of water clinging to your neck.
“Well, we aren’t exactly alone,” your hands move to his chest, trying to keep some space between you.
“Alone enough,” he argues, gripping your chin between his thumb and forefinger.
“You haven’t wanted me in days, and now that we’re in front of your friends, you can’t get enough?” you don’t bother hiding the irritation in your voice.
“You know how I get when I smoke,” his mouth presses against yours, “I’ve missed you,” his fingers move to your bottoms, tracing the edge down your thigh, in between your legs where he hooks a finger underneath, brushing it against your pussy. 
“Don’t,” you say firmly, and his fingers retreat immediately. He holds his hands up in surrender and sulks down to the other end of the pool. Placing your hands flat on the edge of the pool, you boost yourself up to sit on the edge letting your feet dangle in the water. The woosh of the slider being opened has you turning your head to watch Steve come back outside wearing a t-shirt. The chair from one of the tables scrapes against the pavers as he drags it closer to the pool just behind you, where he sits, rejoining the group. 
“Had enough sun?” Robin asks him as she pushes Dustin’s head below the water.
“Yeah,” Steve says, disinterested, “If you drown him, you can explain it to his mother.”
“Fine,” Robin groans as she lets Dustin up, and he sputters and immediately tries to return the favor.
“I can’t believe we’re finally done with high school,” Nancy says suddenly like she just realized it. 
“That’s right. So long, Hawkins High!” Robin yells as she tries hiding from Dustin behind Eddie. 
“I can’t believe I have to go to summer school,” Eddie raises his hands in a strangling motion. 
“What for?” Nancy asks, trailing her hands through the water. 
“Home Fucking Ec,” Eddie groans slinging an arm around Robin so Dustin will leave her alone. If Eddie himself hadn’t been enough to deter Dustin away from Robin, his announcement alone would have provided a distraction. He and Mike break out into fits of laughter at Eddie’s expense. 
“How do you fail Home Ec?” Jonathan asks, joining in the laughter.
“I didn’t fail. I missed too many classes,” Eddie explains defensively.
“What are your plans after?” Nancy pushes a laughing Jonathan off the float and into the water. 
“I haven’t really thought about it,” Eddie shrugs.
“You should come work at Family Video,” Robin says excitedly, smacking Eddie’s chest.
“I already got a job, doll,” Eddie reminds her. 
“How about something that won’t get you arrested,” Dustin says, raising an eyebrow.
“Where’s the fun in that?” Eddie shrugs.
Steve shifts in his chair, crossing his legs and shaking his head as a scoff rumbles from his throat.
“Something you want to say, Harrington?” Eddie raises his hand to his forehead to shield his eyes from the sun as he glares at Steve.
“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Steve answers, returning his look. The conversation comes to an uncomfortable halt as everyone senses the tension.
“So…um...Dustin, did you tell Eddie about the club?” Mike says, trying to move things along.
“No, I didn’t, Mike. And now might not be the best time,” Dustin says through gritted teeth.
“What about the club?” Eddie asks, drawing his eyebrows together.
“That asshole Kenny Carter is trying to convince Principal Higgins to cancel Hellfire so the chess club can use the drama room on Fridays,” Dustin splashes his hands on the water’s surface.
“But we’re not going to let it happen,” Mike says from his place on the lounger.
“I know you won’t,” Eddie places a hand on Dustin’s head, ruffling his curls, “You boys got to be careful. There’s always some dickhead trying to take what’s not theirs,” he casts a look in Steve’s direction.
“Does anyone want anything else to eat?” you shout, jumping to your feet before anything else can be said, “I’m going to start clearing some of this away.”
“I will help,” Jane joins you at the table, gathering the empty dishes.
“Thank you, Jane,” you say, handing her a stack of plates.
“Eddie, when are you playing again?” Robin distracts him, and you make a note to thank her later.
Using your chin to keep the dishes balanced, you nudge open the door and use your foot to slide it the rest of the way, “Just leave everything on the counter. I’ll sort it out later,” you instruct Jane as you dump everything on the kitchen island. Leaning your elbows against the countertop, you hang your head in your hands and let out a sigh. When you raise your head, Jane is watching you thoughtfully.
“Thanks again for your help. It was very kind of you to offer,” you force a small smile.
She turns to go, but just before she enters the sunroom, she looks back at you, “There’s more to life than stupid boys, you know?”
Blinking as you watch her leave through the slider, you think that might be the best advice you’ve ever received.
Everyone is out of the water when you return from inside. Steve and Eddie are at opposite ends of the patio. Ignoring both of them, you join Nancy and Dustin standing by the pool with towels wrapped around their middles.
“When do you leave for Boston?” you ask Nancy, interested in her plans. Boston would be a nice place to visit, especially if you were going to Maine.
“I’m not sure,” Nancy looks behind you towards Jonathan, He and Eddie are wandering over to join the conversation.
“Not sure about what?” Jonathan asks, taking a sip from the bottle of beer he’s holding and putting an arm around her shoulders. 
“When we’re leaving,” Nancy explains as Eddie wraps his arms around you from behind. His wet curls brush against your face as he kisses your cheek, his hands are creeping higher up your body, and you cover them with your hands, stopping them from going any further. 
“I want to wait until my mom and Hopper move into their new house. Make sure she and Will are settled in before we take off,” Jonathan offers. 
“Where is Will today?” you inquire. Jonathan has just opened his mouth to answer when one of Eddie’s hands pushes past yours and lands on your breast. Blood rushes to your face, heating your cheeks. Jonathan and Nancy immediately look uncomfortable. Dustin starts turning his head, looking around the yard. 
“Eddie,” you hiss, batting away his hand, “Stop, okay?”
“What?” he asks innocently. 
Robin tries to step in front of Steve as he approaches from the side, “Jesus, Eddie. Tone it down, dude. You’re embarrassing her,” Steve criticizes, his hands on his hips.
The yard is suddenly quiet, the only noise the soft trickling from the pool filter. 
“I think I’m ready to go. Can you give me a ride, Steve?” Robin places her hand on Steve’s arm.
“Yeah, okay,” with a last look at you, Steve lets Robin tug him toward the house. 
Letting out the breath you’d been holding, you turn back to finish your conversation.
“That’s funny, Steve,” Eddie calls out to Steve’s retreating form. His voice dripping with sarcasm, “You didn’t seem to mind my tone when I was watching you fuck my girlfriend.”
Your mouth drops open, there’s a ringing in your ears, and a few things happen simultaneously. Jonathan starts coughing mid-sip of his beer while Nancy and Dustin’s eyes widen. Steve and Robin stop in their tracks, and Eddie stands there with a self-satisfied look on his face. He’s knocked back a few steps when you ram your shoulder into him as you run into the house, pushing past Steve and Robin.
The muffled sound of raised voice comes from the patio as you race up the stairs, slamming your bedroom door behind you. Sliding out the duffle you had stashed under the bed, you unzip and place it on top of the quilt before making trips back and forth from your dresser, filling it with your clothes. The bedroom door gently swings open, and Eddie enters, closing it behind him.
“What are you doing?” he looks around the room, confused.
“What the fuck do you think I’m doing, Eddie? I’m leaving,” you say, crossing into the bathroom to collect your toiletries. 
“Baby, I know you’re mad-“
“Oh, I’m not mad. I’m furious,” you say, cutting him off as you come back into the room and dump everything on top of your clothes, probably getting gunk all over them, but that’s the least of your problems, “I have never been so embarrassed in my life.”
“It’s not that big a deal. Everyone already knows we have sex,” he crosses his arms over his chest, trying to excuse his actions. 
“Yeah. They probably assumed I had sex with my boyfriend. Not that I let two guys take turns,” you pull on a pair of shorts over your still damp swim bottoms, ”I’m just starting to make friends with these people and now they think...I don’t know what they think. I don’t know what I would think if I was them, but it wouldn’t be good. You humiliated me because I didn’t want you feeling me up in front of Dustin.”
“That’s not what I was trying to do. Don’t worry. No one is going to think anything bad about you baby,” he steps toward you, but you retreat to the other side of the bed. His dismissive tone lets you know you’re not getting through to him.
You scoff, “Are you kidding me? Do you know what will happen if this gets around? You and Steve will get a pat on the back while I get labeled the town whore,” you pull a tee over your head, “Do you think you can imagine what that’s like, Eddie? When people judge you and whisper behind your back?” you try putting it in a way he can understand.
“Yeah, I know what that’s like,” he says softly, looking at his feet, “I’m sorry. I didn’t think.”
“That’s right, Eddie. That’s the problem. You don’t think about me. You’re too busy having some kind of dick-measuring contest with Steve. Your *friend*, who, in case you forgot, is letting you live here for free,” you zip up the duffle and sling it over your shoulder before grabbing your purse and moving toward the door, but Eddie doesn’t budge.
“Move out of the way, Eddie.”
“Just wait,” he holds up his hands in front of him, “I’ll leave for a little while, and we can talk about it when I come back, okay?”
“There’s nothing to talk about. I’m leaving. You need to move now.”
He moves to the side, and you storm past him, slamming the door behind you.
♡♡♡
If you squint your eyes just right, the bumps in the popcorn ceiling take on the shape of George Washington. Resisting the urge to scrape them off, you roll on your side and look down at your sister from the top bunk of the bed you’ve been sleeping in since turning up at your family’s home two days ago. Your mother explained that your bedroom had been converted into a sewing room as she put clean sheets on your sister’s bed. So when you haven’t been at work, you’ve been here, in your sister’s room, surrounded by posters of Corey Haim and Michael J. Fox, searching for meaning in the textured surface. A knock on the door jamb quiets your sister’s ever-moving mouth. 
“Eddie wants to talk to you,” your mother says, leaning against the door jamb.
“I don’t want to talk to him,” you roll onto your back and search for other dead presidents.
“Well, you can tell him that yourself,” your mother says sternly, “Come on, let’s give them some privacy,” she waves your sister out of the room. 
Eddie pokes his head through the doorway, looking around the room like it might be booby-trapped with girl things. Amusement and a long-suffering sigh take their turns on your lips as you climb down the ladder and close the door behind him. His hands tentatively reach for your hips. When you don’t protest, he pulls you in, wrapping his arms around you and presses his mouth to the side of your face.
“Are you still mad?” he asks quietly.
“No,” you say, savoring his warmth. His head dips to kiss you, but you lean away, “but that doesn’t mean I’m coming back.”
“What? Why?” his hands gently grip your biceps, “Don’t you love me anymore?” his brows pull together, and the sadness in his big doe eyes is enough to break your heart.
“That’s never been our problem,” you place your hand over his heart, “I just don’t know what we’re doing anymore?”
“You’ve changed so much,” he points out, looking away from you. 
“That’s right, and I want you to change with me,” you tap his chest, “I’ve been waiting around for you for the last year.”
“I’ve been in school,” he says defensively.
“There’s always something. Some excuse you have to kick the can down the road,” you take hold of his arm when he tries to step away from you, “I want to start my life. I don’t want to spend my twenties waiting for you to get your shit together.”
“What do you want to do that I’m holding you back from?” he asks with a trace of sarcasm.
“I don’t know, but I thought we would be figuring that out together. You don’t think about me when you make your decisions. I’m just there, somewhere in the background. I can’t build my life around you.”
“So, you don’t know what you want, but you know it’s not me, it’s that it?” he scoffs. His face falls when you don’t answer.
“Look, I’m going to go,” he sniffs, his eyes getting glossy, “We can talk again later.”
“Okay,” you wrap your arms around his middle, but he doesn’t hug you back, and when he walks out the door, you let him go.
♡♡♡
Three more red x’s have marked the calendar since Eddie’s visit, and you miss him - you miss both of them, but you’re still no closer to a decision. It’s different being in your family home after months away. The rooms seem smaller - more crowded, causing you to feel more like a guest, like you don’t quite belong. There’s a slight smudge to the black text printed in today’s Hawkins post, like the typeset was just a little off at the printers. Your finger smooths down the neat rows of the classifieds, only stopping on the boxes that read ‘apartment for rent’.
Your mother walks into the kitchen carrying a bag of groceries, looking over your shoulder at the newspaper, “There’s a boy in the driveway,” she says like it’s a regular occurrence.
“Who? Eddie?” you question as she puts a milk carton in the fridge.
“No. Not Eddie. The other one with the hair. It’s like these boys today are afraid of the barber,” she muses, but you’re already out the door.
Steve doesn’t move from his spot as he watches you walk down the driveway. Sunglasses hide his eyes as he stands with hands in the pockets of his expensive jeans, a white t-shirt stretched over his chest.
“Do you wanna come in?” you ask, hitching your thumb toward the house.
“I want to talk,” he states with an unreadable expression.
“Then come inside,” you turn and walk back toward the house, looking over your shoulder to make sure he’s following you. 
“Out,” you say to your sister as you and Steve step into her bedroom. With a sigh befitting a pre-teen girl, she peels herself off the floor, taking her magazine with her, and stomps out, slamming the door behind her.
Steve steps around you and pulls out the tiny chair of the vanity. He sits and takes off his glasses. Folding down the arms, he hooks them on the front of his shirt before leaning forward and rubbing his hands together.
“Steve,” you begin but stop when he raises his head. There’s a blue tinge to the skin underneath his eyes. A pang of guilt resounds inside you, knowing you are likely the cause of his lack of sleep. 
“You left me,” he says quietly, “You left me without even saying goodbye.”
Tears prickle behind your eyes, and you’re embarrassed by your selfishness, “I’m so sorry,” you swipe at the first tear spilling over your eyelid, “I couldn’t stay with the way things are between you and Eddie.”
“I know why you did it,” he stands and walks to you, cradling your face in his hands. He uses his thumb to brush away another tear, “It just….hurt.”
“I’m sorry,” you say again, looking into his eyes.
“I know, sweetheart,” he tips your head back and presses his warm lips to yours in a succession of light kisses, “I’ve missed you,” he breathes out between kisses, “Come home with me.”
“I can’t,” your fingers grip the fabric of the back of his shirt, “You and Eddie-“
“We worked it out,” his hands smooth down your neck until they’re wrapped around your shoulders.
“How did you do that?” your eyebrows raise in surprise.
“We’re guys,” he shrugs, “We grunted a few times and called it good.”
“And how do I explain going back with you?”
He steps back and puts a hand on his hip while the other pinches the bridge of his nose, “He asked me to come to talk to you.”
“What?” you ask, your mouth dropping open.
“It doesn’t matter, okay?” he pulls you against him, “I want you with me. I want to come home to you.”
“Steve, do you know how messed up that is? You want me to go back to my boyfriend so we can keep cheating?” you pull away from him.
“Then we’ll tell him,” he calmly crosses his arms over his chest. 
“No,” you say, stepping back, ”He doesn’t have anyone or any place to go. I can’t hurt him like that. And I don’t know...I haven’t-“
“He can keep the goddamn house. We’ll find someplace else,” he says heatedly.
“Even if I didn’t have a boyfriend, we can’t live together. We barely knew each other four months ago,” you say, scrubbing your hands over your face wondering if your hesitation stems from practicality or your reluctance to let Eddie go.
“Why not?” he asks, stepping closer, “I know I love you. I’d marry you tomorrow if that’s what you want.”
Inhaling a sharp breath, you feel like the earth has just tilted in its axis, “Whoa,” you press your hand to your forehead, “that’s way too much. This is crazy.”
“I’m sorry,” he breathes out a defeated sigh, “I don’t mean to pressure you. I want you to understand that I know what I want, and time isn’t going to change that. I want a future with you. I got the job at the community center. I’m ready to start my life and put everything else behind me.”
The same words had come out of your mouth just a few days ago when you were talking to Eddie. This is what you wanted. What’s holding you back?
“You say that, but you’re going to wake up one morning and think of the friends you’ve lost and the people we’ve hurt, and you’ll resent me. You just can’t see it yet.”
“Is that what you’re worried about?” he takes both your hands in his, “I don’t know what to say to convince you. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted.”
“I wish I could be as sure as you,” your voice breaks, and your eyes fill.
“You aren’t coming home,” he says sadly. When you nod your head, his arms go around you.
“Just tell me you love me,” he says against your temple, ”it will be enough for now.”
“I love you so much,” your tears are leaving spots on his shirt, but you don’t want him to let you go. He kisses you until your eyes are dry, light brushes of his mouth meant to comfort, not demand, but after he’s gone and you press your face into your pillow, and the tears start again.
♡♡♡
“Goodnight,” you call over your shoulder, a week later, to the few remaining people at Enzo’s who are taking their time wiping down tables while enjoying a glass of wine from the bar. A round of “see ya laters” follows you as you push through the heavy front door onto the quiet sidewalk. The temperature dropped after the sun went down, and you wish you’d had the foresight to grab a sweatshirt. Fumbling through your purse and looking for your keys, you don’t immediately notice the gray van parked next to your Cutlass as you enter the employee parking area. 
Eddie is leaning against the dented side panel, and he smiles when your eyes connect. A warmth washes over you as you return his smile. 
“Rough night?” he asks, gesturing to your shirt that’s covered in tomato sauce from your collar to the hem. 
“Yeah,” you say, pulling it away from your body, “I think I might not be cut out to be a waitress at an Italian restaurant.”
“Well, that’s okay,” he says reassuringly, “Sometimes you have to give things a try to figure out they aren’t meant for you.”
Inhaling a deep breath, your lungs fill with the cool night air, and you wonder if his words hold a deeper meaning. 
“Listen,” he shoves his hands into his pockets, “I talked to everyone from the party. No one is going to say anything, I promise.”
“Thank you,” you swallow and give him a smile. 
“I don’t want anyone talking bad about you. Especially because of me,” he says the last part quietly, looking down at his shoes, kicking a few pebbles on the asphalt, “And I want you to know I’ve thought about what you said,” he sniffs and looks around the nearly empty lot, “I’m going to try really hard not to be such a shitty boyfriend. You deserve better.”
“Eddie, you’ve never been a shitty boyfriend,” hot tears are prickling behind your eyes, and you twist the strap of your bag in your hand.
“No. You were right-“
“No. I was too hard on you. You were right, I have changed, and not all of it has been a good thing,” your eyes burn as the tears flow unrestrained, “I’m so sorry.”
“Baby, what are you sorry for?” his voice is cracking, and it’s killing you.
“For all the things I’ve done to hurt you. Can you forgive me?”
“Baby, I love you. There’s nothing to forgive,” his hands twitch at his sides before he places them tentatively on your arms like he might not have permission to touch you.
Your heart aches. The guilt is breaking you. Dropping your purse, you wrap yourself around him, clinging to him as you cry, knowing you don’t deserve forgiveness, or Eddie, or Steve. You’re so very tired of crying, and you want to let him make it all better - let him love you. He squeezes you tightly and lets you sob while rocking you from side to side under the yellowish glow cast by the floodlight that buzzes at the edge of the building.
“I’ve missed you,” you say when you’re able to speak without hiccupping, your face hot and swollen.
“You have?” his surprise sounds genuine.
“Of course I have,” you lean back to look up at his face and wipe your nose on the back of your hand.
“I miss you too,” he uses his fingers to wipe away some of the wetness on your face, “I’ve had a hard time falling asleep without you. I’ve gotten used to your cold feet on my legs.”
Fisting the front of his shirt, you giggle, “Good to know.”
“Can I kiss you?” he asks softly.
Nodding, you stretch on your toes meeting him halfway. His kiss feels like coming home. Every touch and taste are familiar. Warm lips staving off the chill of guilt. His hands move to your jaw, angling your head to deepen the kiss. Light contented sighs escaping through the gaps. 
“Come home with me,” he requests with closed eyes, mouth still moving against yours.
“Yes,” you breathe.
“Come home to stay.”
He pulls you tighter, his kiss becomes demanding, and you can’t refuse - you don’t want to. 
“Okay,” you whisper. 
His lips pull tight as he smiles against you and prints three more kisses on your mouth before finally pulling back. 
“Can we leave your car here? I’ll bring you back tomorrow, and we can pick up your stuff,” he says with all the excitement of a boy on Christmas morning. 
“That sounds good,” you say, just as eager. He bends to pick up your purse and moves to open the van’s passenger door. After helping you in, he runs around to his side. Turning off the tape deck before turning on the engine, he drives you back to Steve’s, holding your hand the entire way.
The van sputters and comes to a stop in Steve’s driveway. Eddie slips off his seatbelt and leans toward you, with a hand on the back of your head, he places a cloud-soft kiss on your lips, and you let yourself sink in. 
“Let’s not bother Steve. I want you all to myself tonight,” he says while stroking your cheek. A tightness constricts around your heart. Some part of him knows he’s missing a piece of you. 
With his warm hand holding yours, he leads you quietly through the dark house until he can close you in your room, shutting out everything and everyone creating a span of existence for just the two of you. And when your mouths meet, you give him everything you have left. 
His grip on you tightens, and he purrs his appreciation when you tilt your head, giving his access to your neck. “Mmmmm, you taste like garlic bread,” he says hotly against your skin. 
Pulling back, you cover your face with your hands while your body shakes with laughter. 
“What?” he says, confused, “I like garlic bread.”
“I think I need a shower,” you step closer and put your hands on his chest.
“Is that right? Did I tell you what happened in Home Ec. today?” he asks, kneading your hips. 
“No,” you make your eyes wide and shake your head. 
“It was terrible. I opened a container of flour, and it got all over me,” he looks away but peeks at you under his lashes to see if his ploy is working.
“That is terrible,” you say feigning sympathy while he nods his head in agreement, “I guess you need a shower too.”
“Do you think there’s enough room in there for two?” his hands glide from your hips to your ass, and his fingers press into your flesh as he pulls you tightly against the hard length trapped in his jeans.
“I think we could make that work,” your arms circle his neck. 
His mouth comes down on yours in a frenzy of hungry kisses as he walks you backward into the bathroom. The air gets thick and heavy when you turn on the faucet in the shower, adjusting the temperature while Eddie takes off his belt and pants. Steam billows around the small room, and your skirt barely hits the floor when Eddie pushes you into the shower with him, both of you still mostly dressed. Passionate kisses mingle with laughter as the hot water plasters your hair to your cheeks and turns your white shirt transparent.
“Everything’s better when you’re with me,” he says, pulling your drenched shirt over your head. Every sweet word feels like a nail pushing through your heart, but you try to push away the guilt, just for tonight. He kneels as he works your wet panties down your legs and buries his face in your center. His warm tongue parts your folds as you tip your head back into the spray.
“Eddie,” moaning, you tangle your fingers in his damp hair, smoothing it back from his face. A tiny yelp bursts from your mouth and echoes against the tiles when his teeth nip your thigh before he kisses his way back up your body. 
“Now that’s much tastier than garlic bread,” he says, making you laugh as he reaches behind you to unclasp your bra, which ends up in a pile in the corner of the shower along with his shirt. 
“Let’s make sure all the flour gets rinsed off,” you say cheekily as you switch places, putting him under the spray. Your fingers grip the hem of his boxers, pushing them down his legs before kicking them into the corner. Leaning forward, you press a kiss to the center of his chest just above his heart and pick up the bar of soap that sits on the recessed shelf. Suds drip down your wrist while you rub the bar soap in your hands, working up a bubbly lather and letting it dribble down his smooth chest to where his hard cock rests proudly against his belly. Tiny drops of water cling to his lashes, his dark eyes watching you as you replace the bar and stroke your slick hands down his chest until one is swirling around his balls and the other pumping his very ready, swollen dick. 
“Fuck, baby… don’t stop,” he backs you both out of the spray and picks up the soap to take his turn, spreading the iridescent foam over your breasts, teasing your nipples into taunt peaks.
“Does it feel good?” you coo, using both hands on him, twisting them with each tug. Already knowing the answer but wanting to hear him say it with the pleasure‐drunk look on his face while he kneads your tits.
“Nothing has ever felt as good as you,” he breathes out before sealing his mouth over yours and backing you against the cool tiles. He pulls your hands off him, intertwining your fingers and holding them to the wall beside your head. He rubs his body against yours while you kiss, skin slicked and sliding, soft bubbles popping between you. He quickly turns, rinsing the front of his body in the steaming water. 
“Put your foot on the ledge,” he encourages, wrapping his hand around your knee to support you, spreading your legs wide.
“Are you ready for me?” he asks, spitting into his hand to lube his cock.
“Mmmm, so ready,” you hum, catching your lip between your teeth. 
Your moans mix like the parts of a song as he pushes all the way in until he bottoms out inside you. 
“I missed you so much. It feels like it’s been forever since I’ve been inside you,” he rasps, his forehead pressed against yours while he gives you a moment to adjust.
“Then let’s make it last,” you drape an arm over his shoulder. He thrusts in a slow rhythm gathering your free hand to press back beside your head, locking your fingers. His kisses match his pace, and he takes his time tasting you while the pleasure blooms from where you’re joined. 
The steam gets thicker, making your lungs feel heavy as you fill them with deep gasps while rolling your hips to meet every stroke. Sweat beads on his skin, rivulets running down his chest disappearing between your bodies. Tension builds in you, his measured pace starts feeling torturous - you need more. The muscles in your arm strain as you try pressing back against the hand holding you to the wall, wanting to break free and pull him into you harder. He slides his fingers down, circling your wrist, using his strength to keep you in place. 
“Do you need something, baby?,” he asks sweetly, dipping his head to lick your neck, “You just have to tell me,” he slows further, and you try bucking your hips, but this position has you pinned.
“I need you to fuck me,” you mewl.
“I am,” he teases, a smirk twisting his lips, “I’m gonna make you come…eventually. That’s what you want, right?” he dots your face with tiny kisses. Your lips chase his, but he pulls back too quickly.
“Eddie,” you shake your head with a frustrated smile, “you’re making me crazy.”
“I’ll do anything you want, my love. Just say it,” he chuckles.
“Fine,” you drop your head back against the tile so you can look into those mischievous eyes, “I want you to fuck me hard with your big cock..pleazzze,” you make your eyes big and stretch out the last word like a petulant child.
“It is big, isn’t it?” he laughs.
Before you can think of a clever response, he pulls out and spins you around, tugging back your hips and driving into you hard.
“Yes,” you cry, pushing back into him, bracing your hands in front of you. The sound of your skin slapping together fills the room as his hips piston forcefully against your ass, punishing your gummy walls, and hitting that spot that makes your eyes roll back. One of his hands glides around your waist and moves lower until his long, calloused fingers are circling your clit, while the other palms your breast catching your nipple between his fingers. Electricity is zapping under your skin everywhere he’s touching you, shooting you up the slope toward your climax.
“Are you going to come, baby? Go ahead, be a good girl and come on my dick.”
His words have you flying over the edge. He holds you up as your legs tremble, and your inner walls pulse around him. 
“Fuck, fuck, fuck,” he cries, pushing you forward. Freezing water hits the back of your legs and has you both scrambling out laughing. He reaches back in and shuts off the water. 
“Oh, you didn’t get to come?” you tut, sticking out your lower lip, looking at his red, angry dick, “That’s too bad,” you wrap a towel around your body and open the door that leads back into your bedroom.
“Baby? You’re not that mean. Are you?”
You laugh as he chases you into the bedroom.
♡♡♡
Eddie’s arm was tightly around you when you woke the next morning. Placing your hand on top of his, you slide your hand back and forth, gently waking him.
“Hmmm, this is a good dream I’m having,” he says, kissing your neck and snuggling closer. 
“It’s going to be a wet dream if I don’t get to the bathroom,” you say, patting the hand and pressing on your stomach.
“Say no more,” he raises his arm, so you can slide out of bed. 
“I’m going to go get the coffee started,” you say once you’re finished in the bathroom, and he’s passing you on the way to take his turn. 
“I’m right behind you,” he says, closing the door.
Quickly, you dig through the clean laundry basket until you find the light blue tee you are looking for and hurriedly pull it over your head. It slides down to about mid-thigh, covering you enough to walk through the house. The house is quiet as you make your way down the carpeted stairs. Nerves are dancing in your belly, you swallow them down and make your way to the kitchen. Your breath catches when you see Steve standing at the island, hair askew, light stubble coating his jaw. His lips part when he sees you, and his expression is unreadable. Standing in the doorway, you nervously play with the hem of your shirt. 
“You’re back,” he says, leaning both hands on the counter. You nod and look down at your toes, wiggling them on the cold tile. His face falls, “You came back with Eddie.”
Again you nod, and you can hear Eddie coming down the stairs toward you. Your mouth opens to say something, but Steve’s lips pull into a bright smile, “You’re wearing my shirt.”
Dropping the material, you return his smile just as Eddie comes in behind you. 
“Good job, Munson. Finally wised up and brought her home,” Steve says, turning his back to pull three mugs from the cabinet, “Thank Christ, I was getting tired of your burnt cooking.”
“Hey, I thought I did a good job,” Eddie says, moving to the coffee pot and filling the mugs, “You said you liked the way I filled out that frilly apron.”
Steve pulls the creamer from the fridge giving you a wink, while Eddie spoons some sugar into the mugs.
“What do you guys want for breakfast?” you ask, finding your voice. 
“Nuh-uh,” Eddie says, bringing two of the mugs to the table, “you’re not cooking for us your first day back. Come sit down.”
“Okay,” you say with a little uncertainty as you move across the kitchen and sit at the table. 
Steve pulls a loaf of bread from the pantry and hands it to Eddie before taking two bananas from the fruit bowl. He snags his coffee and sets one of the bananas in front of you before taking a seat at the table.
Eddie loads the toaster and dusts his hands off, “What’s next? Oh!” he raises a finger in the air and moves to the pantry, “What kind of cereal, baby? We’re out of fruit loops. There’s Frankenberry or Kix. I think there’s some of that Müselix in the back, but I don’t recommend it,” he says scrunching his face. 
“Umm, Kix, please,” you say, amused. Eddie has made meals for you a time or two before, and you always appreciate it, but he’s never been quite this doting.
“Excellent choice. I’m going with the Frankenberry myself,” he says, going about putting together breakfast.
“Your car’s not in the driveway,” Steve notes, breaking the end off his banana and popping it in his mouth. 
“I left it at Enzo’s,” you break the stem on your piece of fruit. 
“I’m going to take her back later so she can go get her stuff,” Eddie says, setting down your breakfast in front of you and kissing your cheek. 
“Thank you,” you squeeze his hand, and he turns to retrieve his own dish.
An uncomfortable silence falls over the three of you, an occasional slurp of pink milk from Eddie highlighting the quiet. 
“What?” Eddie asks as you watch him use his spoon to separate the marshmallows from the cereal bits, “I like to save the monsters for last.”
Laughing, you slice the rest of your banana and add it to your cereal. 
“Now that’s weird,” Steve says, gesturing to your bowl as he stands and retrieves the peanut butter from the pantry. 
“Everyone puts bananas in their cereal,” you say before taking a bite.
“Umm. No, they don’t,” Eddie says, around a mouth full of cereal, “It’s gross, baby.”
“Is this how it is going to be now? You two teaming up against me?” you tease, sipping your coffee.
“Afraid so,” Steve says, putting some bread down to toast.
“Sorry,” Eddie drinks the rest of his milk from the bowl and wipes his chin on a napkin, “Steve’s my best girl now.”
“Jesus, Eddie,” Steve rolls his eyes, picking up the newspaper from the island and sitting down at the table to wait for his toast.
“We better get going. I have to stop by Ricks after I take you to your car, and then I have a few drops to make,” Eddie says, pushing back from the table and bringing his dishes to the sink, “I’ll be back in a few hours, baby,” he moves back to the table and leans down to give Steve’s cheek a kiss. 
“Get out of here,” Steve says, pushing him away.
Eddie manages to plant one on the top of Steve’s head, “He’s just playing hard to get,” he says, making you giggle around your last bite of toast. 
Eddie snaps his fingers, “Are you going to be around tonight, Harrington?”
“Try and kiss me all you want, but I’m not going to sleep with you, Eddie,” Steve deadpans, not looking up from the newspaper.
“How about a few video rentals then?” Eddie asks. Steve lowers the paper to hear him out.
“I’ll bring home pizza and some weed. We can all get blazed and watch a movie. Give my girl a proper welcome home.”
“I wouldn’t mind getting high,” Steve says, leaning back and crossing his arms over his chest. 
“Sound good to you, baby?” Eddie asks as you load the dishwasher.
“Yeah, sure. I’m game if that’s what you both want,” your stomach fills with dread knowing you can’t keep doing this. The lying, the pretending, the betrayal. Crimes committed for the sake of a love that’s ripping you to shreds. There won’t be enough of you left for either of them. A love that made you too weak to stay away.
“Don’t get Top Gun. I can’t watch that sad shit after smoking,” Eddie’s voice pulls you from your thoughts.
“Fine. But no onions on the pizza this time,” Steve points his finger at Eddie, “I could smell your breath from across the room.”
“Whatever gets me in your pants, Harrington,” Eddie says, winking at him. Soliciting an eye roll from Steve before he goes back to his paper, seemingly disinterested. 
Eddie’s hand on your waist guides you toward the hall, “That’s not my shirt,” his eyebrows draw together, and he looks at you questioningly.
“Oh, it’s not?” you look down and smooth the material on your thighs, “It was in our basket. It must have gotten mixed in.”
“We got to get you some pajamas, baby,” Eddie comments, taking your hand and walking ahead of you. Risking a look over your shoulder, you meet Steve’s gaze as Eddie tows you from the room. 
♡♡♡
After Eddie dropped you off, you drove around town before heading to your house. Now you're sitting on the bottom bunk of your sister’s bed, staring at the packed duffle sitting on the floor.
“Are you sure?” your mother asked when you told her you were moving back to Steve’s, “This is your home. You can stay as long as you like,” she reminded you.
“I’m sure,” you replied, not meeting her eyes, knowing you are far from being sure. It didn’t take you long to pack. Most of your things are still at Steve’s. They’ll be expecting you soon, but you can’t seem to get your feet to carry you from the room, choosing instead to tally up all the things you’ve done. Feeling worse that, given the opportunity, you might not change a thing. You’re hurtling toward disaster, and dragging your feet won’t save anyone.
Eddie’s van is in the driveway when you get to Steve’s house. Their voices carry from the kitchen as you toe off your shoes in the foyer and set your bag on the stairs.
“I was just about to call your mom’s,” Eddie says, coming around the corner and wrapping his arms around you.
“Sorry. I had a few things to take care of,” you feel older and more worn down with each lie.
“I put the pizza in the oven to keep it warm,” he says, kissing your nose, “Are you ready to burn one?”
“I’m going to go change and unpack. I’ll be quick,” you pull away from him and head up the stairs. 
“Okay, but don’t take too long. You know how whiney Steve gets when he’s hungry,” Eddie calls after you.
“Fuck off, Munson,” Steve yells from the kitchen.
Shaking your head, you turn to look at Eddie, 
“See,” he says, pointing toward the kitchen before disappearing around the corner.
Both boys are sitting at one of the bistro tables out on the patio when you join them, wearing a long-sleeved tee and a pair of Eddie’s boxers rolled up around your waist. The sun is just starting to dip below the tree line leaving the air chilled, and the sky streaked with orange and purple. A small sandwich bag of weed is on the table in front of Eddie, along with a lighter and some rolling papers.
“There she is,” Eddie says as you sit in the remaining chair between them.
“Okay,” Eddie slaps his hands together and rubs them back and forth like Mr. Miyagi from The Karate Kid, before opening the baggie, “Rick gave me this shit to sample. It’s a new strain. He said to be careful because it will lay you out. So, take it easy, baby. I don’t want you freaking out,” he sprinkles the weed across the paper before starting to roll it, “You can do what you like, Harrington, but you’ve been warned.”
“I don’t freak out,” you pout, crossing your arms. Eddie’s mouth drops open, and he pauses to give you a skeptical look. So you repeat yourself with more conviction, “I don’t.”
“I’ve got to hear this,” Steve leans forward, resting his clasped hands on the table.
“Well, let’s see,” Eddie licks the edge to seal it, “There was that time you thought your hand was stuck to your forehead, and I had to rip it off.”
Steve throws his head back, laughing.
“That was one time,” you scoff.
“And that time you cried because you were thinking about how one day I’ll be an old man with gray hair,” Eddie says as his long fingers twist the ends of the joint.
“That’s very sad,” Steve says, shoulders shaking as you narrow your eyes at him.
“Oh, and that time you made me sit still for an hour while you drew my portrait, and it was just a stick figure. I should have known when you were giggling the whole time.”
“Hold on,” you slap your hand down on the table, “that was you, not me.”
“No, it wasn’t,” Eddie shakes his head at you.
“I know it was you because the stick figure had enormous boobs,” you accuse.
A smug grin spreads across Eddie’s face, “Okay. Maybe that one was me,” he chuckles, “But I wasn’t the one who was dead set on the stars being tiny people that spy on us when we’re doing it outside.”
Shaking your head, you glare at Eddie. Steve’s elbows are on the table, his head is in his hands, and he can’t stop laughing.
“Are you going to keep running your mouth, or are you going to light that thing?” you ask, trying really hard to hide your smile. 
“Your wish is my command,” Eddie says before sparking his lighter.
The conversation tapers off as you pass the joint around, letting the thick smoke do its work. Eddie was right. The weed is more potent than what you’re used to. After a few times around, you and Steve both decide you’ve had enough and let Eddie finish it off by himself. 
The katydids and crickets have woken up. Their chirping and shrill squeaks are joined by the chants of the Whippoorwill, signaling the end of another long summer day. The familiar head and body buzz creeps in, loosening the tension as you watch the lightning bugs dancing at the edge of the woods. 
“I need to eat,” Steve says, slapping a hand over his flat stomach, his eyes looking glassy.
“Yes!” Eddie raises his arm, pointer finger extended to the sky, “Excellent idea, Steve,” he says, standing up and slipping his lighter and papers back into his pocket, “Ready to eat, baby?” he tugs you from your seat and into his arms, his soft lips start working their way down your temple, “I’m so glad you’re home,” his mouth moves over yours, and you open for him, letting him deepen the kiss. 
The glass slider leading into the sunroom is closed so hard it bounces off the frame, and the noise has you startling in Eddie’s arms. 
“Uh-oh. Princess Harrington is testy. We better go in,” Eddie pecks your forehead.
Something doesn’t smell right when the two of you enter the kitchen. Steve is standing in front of the oven with a charred pizza box in his oven-mitt-covered hand.
“Eddie,” Steve says, “You have to take the pizza out of the box before you put it in the oven or at least not set the temperature to inferno hot.”
“Oops,” Eddie looks at the box sheepishly while scratching the back of his neck.
Covering your mouth with your hand, you try and fail to hold back the giggles bubbling out of you. 
“She’s wasted,” Steve says, tossing the blackened box onto the stovetop.
“You’re one to talk,” you say, squeezing into the space between Steve and the stove, “Your eyes are bright red,” you pull out a pair of tongs from the ceramic utensil holder on the countertop and use them to flip open the box. Steve’s hand goes to your hip as he peers into the box from over your shoulder.
“The pizza looks fine,” you quickly step to the side out of Steve’s reach and open the cupboard to take out some plates and glasses. 
“Thank fuck, I don’t have another ten dollars to spend on pizza,” Eddie says, taking a plate from your hand, “What did you get for movies?” he asks Steve.
“Hoosiers and One Crazy Summer,” Steve says, lifting out a slice from the box. Strings of melted cheese stretch between the slice and the rest of the pizza. Steve drops it on his plate and shakes out his burnt fingers.
“Basketball? Really, Steve?” Eddie asks, using the tongs to load his plate and drop a slice onto yours. 
“Where’s your state pride?” Steve asks, reaching over you for one of the glasses of ice water you just poured and heading toward the living room, “I like basketball.”
“Of course you do,” Eddie says, following behind him.
Shaking your head and grabbing a few napkins from the basket on the island, you take your dinner with you, following the sound of their bickering.
The Harrington living room is arranged in a typical conversation style. An oversized couch with a dark wooden coffee table in front of it, flanked on either side by cozy deep, seated chairs. The lamp in the foyer has been left on to provide some extra illumination to the dark room, the flickering light from the tv providing the rest. Steve is sitting on one end of the large sofa fast, forwarding through the copyright warnings while Eddie bites into his pizza sitting at the other end. Passing out the napkins, you warily eye the free seat in between them, but there isn’t enough weed in the world to make that look like a good idea. Placing your glass on one of the coasters scattered on the coffee table, you opt for one of the overstuffed chairs. 
A sad gray hippo wanders down the street, and John Cusack ponders the wisdom of love while you eat your pizza. The empty plates get stacked on the table, and you tuck your legs under you, angling your body to watch the story of Hoops finding love and figuring out his future play out on the TV screen. The occasional chuckles from the boys are more likely due to their altered state than slapstick comedy. One movie ends, and another gets turned on, but your hazy brain isn’t keeping up with the plot. Eddie’s soft snores start about three-quarters into Hoosiers, the strong weed and the sports movie knocking him out. His head is tipped back against the couch with his mouth slightly agape while Steve’s full attention is on Gene Hackman.
The gears in your brain start turning, trying to find a resolution to the questions plaguing you. Steve and Eddie are entirely different from each other, opposites in most ways. Loving Eddie is like a roller coaster, thrilling highs dipping into lows and back up again with impossible speed. Drifting through life with him would be a hell of a ride, but one that could be stuck on the same circular track. It will always be you dragging him through life’s big milestones. More than likely, you’ll end up supporting him and anyone else that comes along if you decide to have a family. But there won’t be any shortage of love and if your relationship survives this storm, you can probably survive anything. 
Steve’s love is like the ocean, vast and strong. He’d be devoted, like the tide, carrying you through life with your feet never touching the sand, never letting you fall. He’d give you everything he has without a second thought, but that kind of all-encompassing love could be stifling. It could pull you under the surface if you don’t have space to make mistakes and solve them on your own. Without a doubt, he would work hard to care for you and make you happy, possibly at his own expense. Deep down, you fear a love born out of betrayal can’t be one that lasts.
Lost in your thoughts, it took a moment to notice Steve returning your stare, his hazel eyes soft but wanting. He runs a hand through his hair, making a decision. He stands and quietly moves until he’s standing in front of you, his chest rising and falling in short breaths. 
The light fog swirling in your brain turns into wisps of confusion when he drops to his knees in front of you. His eyes close as he leans forward and lays his head in your lap. The tip of his nose runs up your thigh, the light stubble on his cheek a delicious scrap on your skin as he nuzzles against you.
He needs your touch. It’s such a simple request. If the room wasn’t so quiet you would’ve missed the soft sigh he releases when your hands move through his hair, brushing it back from his temples. His arms circle around you, his large hands squeezing between your back and the chair, fingers sliding under your shirt so his thumbs can rub circles on your skin. 
His head moves against you like a gentle wave, a light press of his warm lips, a slight swell in the tide. Your fingers tremble as they smooth the soft strands at the base of his neck, apprehension taking hold at the abrupt recognition of how much he needs you. He lifts his head, and your hands cradle his strong jaw. 
“I love you,” floats out on an exhale of breath before the barest brush of his lips turns into a slow deep kiss. His hands grip the hem of your boxers, giving them a sharp tug, pulling them down in the back until he’s stopped by the weight of your hips. 
Kiss-swollen lips move to your ear, “I’m going to taste you.”
His words leave you tingling. Lifting your hips, you let him slide the fabric down your legs taking your underwear with them. He glances over at Eddie as he pulls you to the edge of the chair and drapes one of your legs over his shoulder. A finger raised to his lips warns you to be quiet. His eyes darken when he sees the glossy coating of wetness already glazing your center. 
Biting down on your lip, you watch as he takes his first long lick with the flat of his tongue before he begins lazily making out with your pussy. He places wet, sucking kisses through your folds, pausing to use his tongue to tease your entrance while his nose bumps against your clit. The wet sounds he’s making aren’t masked by the white noise of the TV. Eddie stirs in his sleep, and you freeze. He can’t find out like this. Steve looks up, and you shake your head. He stands, wiping the wetness off his chin before he extends his hand to you. 
He leads you down the dark hall, pausing to push you against the wall and kiss you, the taste of yourself on his tongue making you dizzy like another kind of drug. He eases open the door to his father’s office, flips on the lights, and ushers you inside before turning to lock the door. While his back is turned, you take the opportunity to rid yourself of your shirt, glad that you hadn’t bothered with a bra. When he turns and sees you naked and offering yourself, something passes over his face that has your breathing coming faster. He stalks forward, but his touch is gentle, hands caressing every bit of skin he can reach while he occupies your mouth with his demanding lips. 
“Next time, I want you in my bed,” he says, moving you into the room and lifting you to the edge of the massive desk, the polished cherry wood satiny against your skin. His possessive need to claim you weighs heavy but has your stomach tightening with arousal. The idea feels like a fairytale - to actually be just his. 
“Do you want me to finish what I started?” he asks, pulling his shirt over his head.
Your hands are drawn to his chest like a bee landing on a flower, your fingertips running through the bristly hair, exploring the dips of his muscles.
“No. I want to feel all of you,” you answer by drawing him closer so you can kiss the freckles and flat moles that dot his skin like destinations on a map. All places you want to explore. His arms go around you, letting you give as much as you want, and in this moment, you wish you could give him everything.
He guides you back until you’re lying flat on the desk. The scent of leather and ink rises from the blotter under your head. His big hands return to your thighs, the rest of his clothes now gone, his cock is at your entrance.
“Look at me, sweetheart,” he says as he waits for your gaze to push inside you. The intensity of his eyes spread into an open forest of mossy green, being chased by the golden hues of autumn. Penetrating you two ways-your body, and your heart.
His hands hold your hips steady as he begins to move. Unhurried strokes fill you to completeness, wave after wave of warm pleasure cascading through you. The wisps of smoke still circulating in your brain have slowed things down, and every touch is a dream you want to get lost in. His hands roam as you adjust and tilt your hips to meet him. 
“Every day,” his flat palm sweeps upward between the valley of your breasts, “I want you like this every day.”
“Mmm, me too,” you capture his fingertips and press them to your lips before sucking them into your mouth. His eyes roll back, and his other hand tightens his grip on your thigh as he drives into you harder. 
“I need more,” he says, tipping his head back, “I want you closer,” he pulls out and helps you off the desk. 
“I can make you happy if you’d let me,” he takes your hand as he sinks down onto a plush club chair. The rich leather creaks under your knees as they push into the cushion on either side of his legs as you straddle him.
“You do make me happy,” you keep your mouth on his, swallowing his moan as you take him inside you, sliding down his length until you’re fully seated, “Now I’m going to make you happy,” gripping the back of the chair, you lift your hips and drive them down. Both of you expending effort to muffle the moans caused by the euphoria of your connection. He cups your breast, and his mouth laves attention on your aching, taut nipple as you work your hips, the head of cock hitting the best spot every time.
“That’s it. You feel so fucking good,” he moves his hands to your ass, encouraging your movements, “I wanted to touch you since this morning, and now I never want to stop,” his mouth devours yours, his tongue tasting and exploring like a man starved. Desperately, you whimper into his mouth as he starts driving his hips up from below you setting you on a path toward release.
“I love you,” you sigh between sloppy kisses, eliciting a low groan, “I missed you so much,” you confess feeling like a balloon caught up in a wind that’s moving higher and higher into the stratosphere. 
“I love you so much,” he rasps as he throbs and swells inside you, “I need you to come for me,” his tempo rises, and he’s hitting you deeper and harder than before. Your inner muscles tighten around him as your craving to be filled by him takes over. The first hot spurt against your cervix has you shuddering and falling back to earth as more of his warmth fills you and aids his last frenzied strokes. Little shocks and jolts tingle inside you as you crumple into his arms, legs still shaking, completely spent, floating in a cloud of bliss. His hands stroke up and down your back, your head rests on his shoulder, the rest of you pressed against his sweat-slicked chest, feeling it rise and fall as he catches his breath. Your mouths find each other, languid kisses help you come down together. Steve holds an invisible string to your heart that keeps pulling you closer to him and away from Eddie, a game of yo-yo you will never win. 
“That was-,” he kisses your forehead and tightens his hold on you.
“I know,” you say, certain you’re feeling everything he is. It was some of the most intense sex of your life. Kissing him once more, you start to pull back.
“Not yet. Just stay with me another minute,” he pleads.
“I have to go shower before….” you trail off, hating that you’re thinking about Eddie while Steve is still inside you. 
“I can’t keep doing this,” he confesses, “I thought I could, but I can’t keep watching him touch you, not after this. There isn’t a way this ends without him being hurt. I think you know that.”
“I do. I’m so sorry. I know it isn’t fair. Soon I promise.”
“Okay,” he says, helping you off him. After you’re dressed, he stays to clean up while you quietly sneak past a sleeping Eddie. Once the water in your shower is running, you let out a sigh of relief, you could have been caught at any moment tonight. Steve is right. This can’t keep going on. Putting soap on a washcloth, you shower off one boy so you can go to bed with the other.
♡♡♡
Clarity doesn’t come that night or the next day or the next. In fact you’re more torn than ever. The only decision you’re certain about is trying to find another job. Afternoons have been spent driving around Hawkins and the surrounding towns following the help wanted ads in the newspaper that you have circled with red ink. Busy days followed by waitressing in the evenings has kept you away from both boys, but today is your day off so after filling out a few applications, you make your way back to Steve’s house.
There is a dark stain in the driveway where Eddie’s van is usually parked as you pass by it with an arm full of groceries. Stacks of papers are spread out on the tabletop with a tired looking Steve sitting behind them. He’s been reading up on the proposed programs that the town wants the new community center to offer. He has to meet with the board members at the end of the week to discuss the best ways to utilize the interior space for the new building and you know he’s feeling a little out of his depth. His elbows are on the table and he’s using two fingers to rub his temples.
“Do you have another headache?” you leave the bag of groceries on the island before walking over to kiss him hello. 
“Yeah,” he says, wrapping an arm around your waist and pulling you in for a kiss, “It's been happening when I’ve been reading for awhile.”
“Maybe you need glasses,” you shrug, noting the tylenol bottle sitting beside a half full glass of water.
“Glasses? I’m not an old man or a nerd,” he says, sounding offended.
“Steve,” you roll your eyes, “plenty of people that aren’t old or nerds wear glasses. Besides,” you run your hands through his hair, “I think you would look sexy with glasses.”
“Is that right?” he asks, pulling you onto his lap, “Well, I’ll have to consider it then,” he brushes his lips over yours.
“Do you want to take a break after I get the groceries put away? I’m going to watch a little TV before I make dinner.” 
“Definitely,” he says, squeezing your hip.
After the bag is unpacked Steve follows you into the living room, plonking down on the couch beside you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders as you start flipping through the channels.
“What do you want to watch?” you ask snuggling into his side. 
“I don’t care. I’ll probably end up closing my eyes for a while.”
“Are you sure you aren’t an old man?” you tease, before settling on a rerun of The Brady Bunch.
“When is Eddie coming home?” he asks, looking at his watch.
“He has band practice tonight. So not till later,” you say with a yawn, “See what you started,” you complain feeling sleepy now that you're tucked into his warmth as Alice cleans up after the rowdy house full of kids.
“Just watch your show and give an old man some peace,” he teases, kissing the side of your head. 
The whooshing sound from the TV is what woke you. The faint light from the snow filled screen barely illuminates the room. One of Steve's hands is tangled in your hair, cradling your head where it rests somewhere between his shoulder and his neck. The clean laundry scent of his shirt mixes with the citrus and cedar that clings pleasantly to his skin making you absolutely dizzy with every inhale. In your sleep your bodies have found their way together, possibly at your heart's behest. Every innocent intention inevitably ends with you wrapped in his arms and the way he feels right now, so good and so warm, has you wondering why you would ever want to stop it. 
His eyes flutter open as if your thoughts have somehow woken him. Your hand moves to the side of his face, your thumb brushing back and forth over the light stubble on his jaw. His eyes are asking you a question that you can’t answer with a word. The pouty curve of his full bottom lip is too much to resist, your mouth closes over it in a slow sweet kiss. Just once turns into twice and three times before the fuse is lit and your hungry mouths start to feverishly devour. Gasps and hums join the symphony of your kisses. With a quick move, you’re beneath him,his long body stretched over yours. A low groan travels from his throat into your mouth when your hips rock against him in a desperate plea for more. A strong grip on your thigh molds your leg around his waist bringing his rigid length to perfect alignment with your hot core. Kiss swollen lips slide urgently against each other as your clothed bodies rock together. 
"Let's go to my room," his hand works its way under shirt, his thumb rubbing against the peak of your nipple. 
"Don't stop," you plead, bucking against him, moaning as his hard bulge hits your clit with every grind.
“Jesus. Can you come like this?” he whispers against your mouth. 
“Yes. I’m so close,” you beg. The light in the foyer turns on suddenly. Shock rockets through you. Somehow you missed the sound of the door opening. It takes a few moments for your bodies to stop after your minds register what's happened. Steve moves off you as Eddie stands in the doorway.  
"What the fuck?" Eddie says, sounding genuinely confused as he comes further into the living room, the light from the hall seeping in behind him. Steve's moving towards him, both hands raised in front of his body stopping just after rounding the arm of the couch, not letting Eddie gain any more ground, while you scramble up further into the room, backing away from both of them. The endless static still buzzing from the TV adding to the chaos.
"What the fuck?" this time he screams, his face turning red. He brings the heels of his hands to his forehead and paces back and forth, his shadow following him, as he tries to come to terms with your betrayal, "I fucking knew it," he says in a calm tone as if he's speaking to himself. 
His hands drop to his sides and stops moving staring at you, "I fucking knew," he yells, leaning forward his whole body raising to his toes with the force of his words, "I didn't want to believe it. I can't believe you could do this to me," he stretches out the end of the last word, balling his fists. 
Your trembling hands cover your mouth as your eyes fill with tears. There's nothing you can say to make this right. His anguish hits you like a tornado, sucking you empty and filling you with a guilt so heavy, you might burst at the seams.
"It wasn't like that," Steve says in a low voice.
"What the fuck did you just say to me?" Eddie spits, turning his attention to Steve. Eddie's on him in flash, both fists gripping Steve's shirt collar, his red face inches from Steve, "I trusted you. You son of a bitch," his arm cocks back, hand bunched into a fist, ready to fly. 
Steve's hands go up in surrender, he turns his face to the side, eyes closed ready to take the punch, "Go ahead, I deserve it. I'm not going to fight you, dude, but it wasn't like that. I love her."
"You're fucking her," Eddie yells.
"I love her," Steve says again, eyes meeting Eddie's when the punch doesn’t come. 
Eddie lowers his hand back to Steve's collar, pulling him forward before pushing him away with enough force to send Steve backward over the arm of the couch.
"We tried to stay away from each other," Steve straightens up and rubs his chest over his heart, "We didn't want to hurt you, but I love her."
"That's just fucking great," Eddies voice drips with sarcasm, "And what about you?" he asks, turning towards you, "Do you love him?" 
His voice breaks at the end of his question, even in the faint light you can see his big doe eyes getting glossy. Regrets are stacking up like a wooden block tower, ready to crush you when they fall. 
"I love you" you sob, taking a step forward, putting you all at the same distance apart. They both look at you knowing you have more to say, "but I love Steve too."
The room feels like a vacuum, all the air leaves with those last four words. Eddie crosses his arms over his stomach, bending forward like he's been punched.
"I feel sick," he says, turning away from you both. Your feet start to carry you towards him but Steve holds up his hand to stop you. 
"How could you do this to me, man," Eddie shakes his head before turning back to Steve, "I thought you were different but it turns out I was right the first time," Eddie moves toward him, getting in his face, "You have everything. This house, cool car, money. I don't have anything, except her," he raises an arm pointing to you, "You could have anyone you want. They practically line up for King Steve."
Steve is trying to stay calm, but something is changing in his expression, his jaw clenches tighter as he stands tall letting Eddie yell only inches away. 
"You had your pick," Eddie gets louder, standing so close the tips of their sneakers are touching, "but you had to take her from me. The one person in this world that loves me. You can't stand not having everything. So you take her and leave me with no-"
"Take her," Steve snaps, screaming back at him, walking forward making Eddie step back, "You fucking gave her to me," Steve puts both hands on Eddie's chest shoving him back hard. Eddie stumbles but quickly regains his balance. The shocked look on his face, saying he's just realized he's had a part to play in all this. 
Eddie places his hands on his hips and looks down at his feet, "How many times?"
"What?" Steve asks brows drawing together in confusion as he takes deep breaths.
"How many times did you fuck my girlfriend?" Eddie demands, lifting his head but keeping his distance, "Or is it too many to count?" he scoffs, shaking his head. 
Steve looks down and then glances at you before answering, "Twice," he at least owes Eddie the truth. Eddie takes a step toward you and so does Steve. 
"That night he picked you up at the restaurant?" Eddie questions you. 
Swallowing and wiping some wetness on the back of your hand, you nod. Hot tears still stream down your face but somewhere inside you there's relief - no more lies.
"You lied right to my face," Eddie fumes, moving towards you. Steve takes a few steps to the side putting himself in Eddie’s path with you behind him. Eddie keeps advancing, "You need to decide, right now. It's him or me," he barks.
Eddie’s eyebrows lower and lips tighten as he realizes Steve is not letting him get any closer to you. 
"What the fuck are you doing?" Eddie challenges. 
Steve's hands are at his sides but there's a tremor running through them as he opens and closes his fists, "Back up," he growls through gritted teeth.
"Eddie-" you try cooling things down only to be cut off. 
"You think I'm gonna hurt her?" Eddie says astonished, "I would never fucking hurt her. You should know that after what we've been through. After we fought together."
Steve doesn't answer but his breathing sounds labored. 
"Steve, it's alright," you soothe, stepping towards him but stopping short of boxing him in. 
"You think I could hurt a woman after watching Chrissy die right in front of me," Eddie probes, "You saw the blood. You know what he did to her. What he did to me and Max."
Your mouth drops open, you've never heard any of this. Steve backs away from Eddie shaking his head as if to clear it. 
"You know what we had to do to kill him. You remember that, right?" Eddie pushes, "All the screaming. All their pain."
Steve stumbles back, his breathing picking up and getting shallow as his hands cover his ears.
"Eddie, you fucking stop it," you move forward, pushing Eddie away from Steve before running to the wall and turning on the light switch. Steve goes down on one knee, his head drooping down. Moving back to him, you put your arm around him trying to hold him steady as he hyperventilates. 
"Eddie, who killed Chrissy?" you ask. His eyes snap from Steve to you. This is the closest you've come to any answers, "Who did you kill?" the question chills you as it leaves your mouth. 
Eddie's face hardens, his warm eyes turn cold as his lips pull into a tight line, "Ask him," he nods his head in Steve's direction.
Steve continues to panic and you turn back to him, dropping down to your knees, holding him against you as you hear the front door slam behind Eddie.
"It's okay. You're alright," you cup his jaw and try to break through to him, "It's just me and you. We're safe. Put your head in my lap," you say, easing him down to the floor. 
♡♡♡
It's the mourning doves coos that wake you. There's a small group of them that gather on the patio in the mornings. Their white tipped wings flutter as they descend, singing out their sad song until their wings are tucked against their bodies and they begin their search for food. Their call makes you wonder who they mourn for, or are they here to remind you of what you've lost.
Blue-green morning light filters through the blinds in Steve's bedroom, the plaid wallpaper making the room feel smaller than it should. Your head rests on his bare chest, both his arms holding you close, his deep even breaths fanning over the top of your head. 
Eddie hadn't come home last night and it wouldn't have changed anything if he had. Steve had needed you more. He was exhausted when he finally had calmed, his head in your lap while you stroked his hair. He apologized over and over as you led him to his room but there was nothing to be sorry for. He watched as you stripped down to your underwear before joining him in bed. It wasn't about sex, it was about solace, needing the feel of each other. He held you as you slept, reaching for you whenever your bodies weren't connected.
When his hold on you tightens, you know he's awake.
"I've wanted this for so long," his voice is rough and heavy with sleep but also yearning, "To wake up with you. But last night is not how I wanted to get here."
"I know," you press a kiss to his chest and run your hands over the soft skin covering his muscles, "Me neither."
"I hate that I couldn't protect you," his voice quieter than it was before.
"There was nothing you needed to protect me from," you say, raising your head to look at him. 
"This time," he breaks your gaze and stares up at the ceiling.
"Can you tell me about it?"
"No," he looks back at you, the burden he's carrying making him look older at that moment.
"Steve-"
"I know. Later. I want to enjoy this a little longer, yeah?"
"Yeah, okay," you say, sharing a kiss before rolling over and his arms pull you snugly against him. Sleep wanders in and you both doze for a few more hours. 
"So, what happens now?" he asks, sitting up in bed with the blankets gathered at his waist while you pull on the t-shirt and shorts you had been wearing yesterday.
"I have to go," you say, sitting cross-legged on the bed beside him. 
"How did I know you were going say that?" one side of his mouth quirks as he shakes his head and looks around the room, “Everytime I think we’re getting somewhere, you leave.”
"Eddie doesn't have anywhere else to go. He probably slept in his van or on the floor at Wayne’s," you reach out and take his hand, “He won’t come back if he knows I’m here.”
“Eddie is a grown man,” he pulls his hand away and gets out of bed, putting on his boxers followed by a pair of jeans,”He has to stand on his own feet some time.”
“So what? He should lose everything in one fell swoop? He doesn’t deserve that,” you cross your arms over your chest.
“He is not the only one hurting here. I’ve stepped aside this whole time. Turned my head when he kissed you and touched you. And it ripped my heart out every time,” he pushes his sleep-mussed hair back off his forehead and sits down on the edge of the bed, “I love you and you love me. At least, that’s what you’ve been telling me.”
“I do love you,” you argue, “It would be so much simpler if I didn’t. Do you think I would put us through this otherwise?” you take both of his hands in yours, “I love you.”
“Then don’t we deserve a chance to be together? To be happy? When you think of your future I know you see us together just like I do. We’ll have a good life together but I need you here with me.”
“Let me ask you something,” you say, lacing your fingers with his, “How are you always so sure we’re going to end up together?”
He shrugs before giving you an answer, “I love you. I just can’t think any other way.”
“Then you’re going to have to wait for me a little longer.”
Leaning forward you place a chaste kiss on his mouth, “I need you to do something for me.”
“Okay,” he replies.
“I need you to talk with someone about the panic attacks,” you state simply. He shakes his head and looks away from you.
“There has to be someone who was there that will understand,” you push.
“I can’t lay this on them,” he argues, “They need me to keep it together.”
“What about Chief Hopper?” you propose, “Wasn’t he in the war or something? He’s probably seen this before.”
“How do you know about Hopper?”
“After what he did for Eddie. The way you’ve mentioned him. I figured it out,” you lightly squeeze his hand between yours, “I think one of the reasons I haven’t been able to decide is because I’m worried about what will happen to both of you. So, will you do that for me? Will you speak with him?”
“If that’s what you want,” his grip tightens on your fingers, “But let me ask you something. Have you considered that Eddie might not want to be with you anymore?”
Nodding your head, you blow out a deep breath, “I still need to decide,” you try and explain, “Would you want me by default?”
He tugs you closer and you let him pull you against his chest, “I love you. I want you to choose me but I’ll take you anyway I can have you, because I know you love me too. But if that's something you can't give me, I love you enough to let you go.”
But that's not what you want, you don't want him to let you go, not now and maybe not ever. He holds you until you can’t put off what you have to do any longer - you love him and you're leaving him again. With tears in your eyes you pack your things. All of them. This will be the last time you're in the room you've shared with Eddie. No matter who you choose, your time here is done. It may be the last time you're in this house. Steve waits for you at the bottom of the stairs. He takes the duffle from your hands and carries it out to your car. 
“It’s going to feel empty here without you,” he says as the two of you stand in front of your car saying your goodbyes.
Sucking in a shuddering breath you say something you’ve needed to say to him for a long while, “I’m sorry. I hate that I’ve hurt you.”
His big hands move to your neck, he thumbs smooth along your jaw, “Sweetheart, being with you has been worth it. I knew I was in trouble from the first time you came down wearing my shirt.” 
A grin tugs at the corners of your lips, “I love you.”
“I know. I love you too. I’ll call you tomorrow, yeah?”
“Please,” you say. His mouth brushes over yours one last time before you get in your car. Hot tears stream down your cheeks as you watch him in your review until you turn out of sight.
♡♡♡
Your mother finds you sobbing in your car when she pulls in the driveway after taking your sister to the orthodontist. She wraps an arm around your waist and urges you into the house, bringing you straight into her room and closing the door.
“It’s time to tell me what’s going on,” she says, sitting down next to you on her bed. So you tell her. The whole story. Well almost the whole story you leave out the threesome and any other sex, and drinking and smoking. After that, it really doesn’t take you very long at all.
“Christ on a cracker, that’s a fine kettle of fish,” she says when you're done.
“What do I do, Mom? Tell me what to do and I’ll do it,” you say, wiping your eyes.
“You’re a big girl. You’ll have to decide this on your own,” she pushes your hair back off your shoulders, “but if you really love both of them. I think you’re going to have to decide who you can’t live without.”
♡♡♡
Putting a cardboard box into your trunk a week later, you smile as the familiar rumble of a loud engine accompanied by even louder music reaches your ears. You straighten up just in time to watch Eddie park his van on the street in front of your house. 
"Moving out?" Eddie teases, as he comes to stand beside you in front of your open trunk that's loaded with boxes. 
"Yeah. I am," you wipe your sweaty hands on the front of your shorts. 
"Oh shit, you really are? I was joking," he rubs the back of his neck nervously.
"Yeah. I found a place I can afford. I think it might be good to be on my own for once," you explain. It's time to choose yourself for a little while. 
"Do you need any help?" he asks looking down as he kicks the pavement with the toe off his white Reebok.
"That would be great. Do you want to follow me?" you question, pointing to your car with your thumb.
"Okay. Sure," he perks up and closes your trunk before jogging back to his van. The nervous tension between you feels like pins being driven into your heart. Both of you are unsure how to proceed after you've hurt him so badly. All week you've wanted to go to him, even going as far as driving by Gareth's when the band had practice, but ultimately what he needed, just like you, was space to make his own decision.
Eddie follows you up the stairs on the side of the garage, carrying a box of mismatched dishes your mother gave you. The windchimes attached to the underneath of the landing gently tinkle out a soothing tune.
"I can't believe you're renting from Mrs. Landry," Eddie says as he waits for you to unlock the door, "English sophomore year was brutal. She hated me."
"Well, you need to remember to turn down the music before you pull in or she still will," your key turns in the lock and the wooden door protests as you ease it open.The warm summer breeze blows through the  windows of your small studio apartment. The sheer curtains billowing around the boxes you have yet to unpack.
"You can set that down wherever you can find space," you offer, setting the box of linens down on the mattress of your unmade bed. He slides the box on to your tiny kitchen counter before he starts poking around the room. 
"This is pretty nice," he sticks out his bottom lip nodding his head as he looks around. 
"Beggars can't be choosers," you shrug, taking a seat on the worn couch that came with the apartment. The dated furniture is a far cry from what was in Steve's six bedroom, six bathroom house. 
"I'm serious. This is a big step. I'm proud of you, baby."
The term of endearment gives you a small flutter of hope that maybe all is not lost between you. He pauses in front of your refrigerator checking out the photos that are held up with magnets.
“Family photo,” he quips, flicking a polaroid of you, him and Steve that Dustin snapped at the pool party before everything went bad. The three of you looked happy then.
“Does Harrington know you're here?” he asks, lifting the flap of a box that's stacked on top of a few others.
“Yes,” you fold an afghan and drape it over the back of the couch, “The two of you aren’t talking?”
“No, we are. Just not about you,” he wanders over to sit next to you and you nod in understanding.
“Eddie, I need you to know the biggest regret of my life will be hurting you. You didn’t deserve it and I’m so very sorry,” your eyes are already getting glossy but you need him to know.
“Yeah, well you know, I shouldn’t have pushed you towards him,” he says, picking at a button that is sewed onto the back of the couch.
“It’s not your fault. It might have happened anyway,” you say, trying to be truthful.
“It’s not the sex. It's the lying,” he says, finally looking straight at you.
“I know,” you can’t hold back the tears, “I made so many mistakes.”
“Well, I’ve made a few myself,” he picks up the box of tissues from a table at the end of the couch and offers you one, “We had fun, though. Didn’t we?”
“Yeah, we did,” you say, taking a tissue from the box and mopping the wetness from your puffy face. He waits patiently for you to pull yourself together. 
“So why did you come to see me?” you ask, getting up to throw out the tissue. When you sit back down, you tuck your hands under your thighs to keep from touching him.
“I had a couple of things to tell you,” he pulls a lighter from his pocket, opening and closing it a few times before stuffing back in.
“Okay,” you encourage him.
“Nothing ever happened between me and Chrissy. There was some flirting, at least on my part. She was at the trailer because I was going to sell to her. Some of the hard stuff. I know you don’t like it,” he wipes his hands on the front of his ripped jeans, “I don’t get that kind of attention from girls like her. But if something had happened, I’m not sure I would have stopped it.”
“What does that mean, girls like her?”
“It means nice girls. Girls like you.”
“Thank you for telling me,” you say, swallowing, your leg bouncing up and down, “Can you tell me what else happened?”
“Not yet,” he says, shaking his head, “Maybe not ever. I don’t want to think about it. I just want to move on."
"Okay, what was the other thing you wanted to say?" you ask suddenly eager for this to be over so you can cry all alone. 
"That's the harder one," he looks around your apartment again, then down at his lap - maybe to gather his words or his courage. He finally lifts his head, "You broke my heart and you did it more than once."
Squeezing your eyes shut, you cover your face with your hands, losing the battle to hold back your sobs.
"I don't know if I can ever trust you again," his voice cracks, "But for some stupid reason, I still love you."
Leaning forward, you fall against him and his arms work their way around you. 
"I've never stopped loving you," you cry into his shoulder, "but I've ruined us. I don't deserve you."
"Maybe," he sniffs and can feel him wiping away his own tears, "but I still want you."
His admission has you crying harder, partly because you're about to break his heart again.
"I'm not going to lie to you anymore, I can't give you that, not right now. I need more time."
He gently pushes your shoulders, easing you away so he can see your face, "Because of him?"
Wiping your eyes, you nod.
"I don't understand," he says shaking his head, "You either love him or you love me. How can you not know?"
"I'm sorry," you agonize, "I don't know why it's like this. I can't help how I feel."
"Neither can I. And I'm certain I love you, only you. If you can love me, only me, we can work through this, okay? But baby, you've got to figure your shit out."
"I'm trying. I promise, I'm trying," wiping your swollen eyes as you cry.
"Alright," he sighs, "I need to go."
He stands to leave and you walk him to the door. He draws in a long breath before inclining his head to kiss you, "That wasn't goodbye, okay? That was see you later."
"Okay," you wrap your arms around him, "See you later," you say against his cheek. He hugs you back before he walks out the door.
♡♡♡
And life moves on. The rest of your boxes get unpacked and you get used to going to bed alone. You're offered a job as secretary at a new office that just opened in Kerly. The pay and hours are better and you don't come home covered in pasta. Eddie and Steve both come by often. Once they even came together, wanting you to know any hard feelings are behind them. You've met them each for lunches and sometimes dinner, casual dates, just spending time together. 
Eddie's summer class is wrapping up and he's making plans with Jeff to share an apartment. He's even put some applications in looking for some regular work, you suspect Wayne might be the driving force behind that decision but a step forward is a step forward. 
Steve is working part time at Family Video and part time with the town while the community center is under construction. He's struggled a little with some aspects of his new role but the head of the rec department has taken him under his wing and is showing him the ropes. Undoubtedly, he'll be successful, he just won't think any other way. 
Being on your own has been tough and sometimes lonely but it's given you the space to get to know yourself and enjoy your own company. Forgiving yourself has been the most difficult but possibly the most important thing you've done. Slowly, you've let go of the guilt. 
Then, one ordinary summer morning, you woke with the sun streaming through the curtains and your alarm blaring. In your haze of sleep, you forgot that you were alone and reached for him. When all your hand found was the cool softness of a well worn sheet, you knew exactly who you were reaching for, the one you couldn't live without. 
The heels of your shoes clack against the busy sidewalk as you walk the two blocks to the restaurant. Your feet will likely be aching by the end of the day but you wanted to dress up for your lunch date. Men in suits and groups of women dressed in business attire walk quickly making the most of every minute of their lunch hour. The upscale dinner's entrance is on the corner of two intersecting streets of the downtown. Walking past the people eating at teal outdoor tables with bright yellow umbrellas, you push against the brushed metal handle of the heavy door, a bell jingles above your head and you're immediately greeted by the smell of fried potatoes, eggs and burgers. Standing just inside the entrance you wait patiently to be seated. 
Letting one of them go was more painful then you could have imagined. The grief and loss leaving scars behind that will never let you forget. But when it was done, you could see his relief in being set free. He took a part of your heart with him when he left, a piece that belonged solely to him, a sliver you'll always be missing. Whether he puts it in a drawer or carries it with him, it's his to do with as he pleases. 
"Just one today, hun?" a waitress in teal dress and white apron grabs a matching teal menu from a pocket attached to the back of the first high-back booth lining the wall. 
"Two, please. He'll be right along," you tell her, already feeling happier that you'll soon be with him.
Strangely, after everything, moving forward slowly seemed like the best decision for both of you, cementing your love into a strong foundation before taking the next step - this is how you build a life. 
She leads you past the lunch counter lined with occupied vinyl upholstered stools and globe pendant lights hanging intermittently above it to a booth pressed up against the enormous plate glass window looking out onto the hectic street.
A set of bright white coffee mugs resting upside-down on their saucers are joined by shiny metal silverware wrapped neatly in napkins on the lacquered wooden table top.
"Coffee?" she asks after she waits for you to slide onto the tufted vinyl bench seat. 
"Just water, please," you say, accepting the menu she hands you. She places another on the table in front of the empty seat across from you before carrying your mug and saucer away with her. 
You've kept your apartment for now but he stays over frequently. And In the quietest part of the night with the moonlight illuminating his beautiful face, he holds you close, keeping you warm, and together you make your plans. 
Setting your menu down on the table-for once you already know what you want, you turn your head to daydream while you watch the people pass by on the street. A mother with a baby in her arms and a small child at her side meet up with a man in a shirt and tie. He leans down and kisses her cheek before lifting the toddler up into his arms and the family changes direction heading towards the park.
 It was always going to be him and some part of you knew it from the very first kiss but now you're ready to give him the best of you, willingly, unencumbered and completely.
The song playing on the radio ends and the DJ laments the approaching end of summer reminding everyone listening that with every end comes a new beginning before starting the next song, and you can't help thinking he was talking directly to you. The bell above the door chimes as it opens and you feel your cheeks rising when you see the top of a familiar head come through the door. His eyes move quickly searching for you and you hold your hand up in a wave when they connect with yours. 
As he walks towards you, the smile that he wears just for you makes everyone and everything fade into the periphery and you're filled with a love so big you're not sure how your body is containing it. Your hands itch to touch him, knowing that after everything - you're his and only his and he is yours. All the fears you had are blown away in the wind, like a dandelion letting go of its seeds - leaving only the possibilities of what can be remaining. In the aftermath of disaster, betrayal, love lost and love found, the long road of your future stretches out in front of you, and although you won't always be able to see what's around the next curve, you'll travel that road with him. 
Tumblr media
Thank you for reading. If you enjoyed this fic, please reblog. It makes a big difference in helping others find my work. Drop a comment I'd love to hear from you.
AN: Endings are always bittersweet. Thanks for being on this ride with me, it's been an emotional one. Who did you see come through the door at the diner? Let me know in the comments. Special thanks to @loveshotzz who always pulls out my best writing and the rest of the hive @myobmaya @boomhauer @superblysubpar As always Jelly's after-hours answering service will be available to answer all your asks. xoxo -A
Tag List @boomhauer @onlyangel-444 @breehumbles @myobmaya @arsenicred @kiki17483 @stolen-in-moonlight @sometimesamysometimesjo @ladybug0095 @sammararaven @tlclick73 @munsonology @totally-bogus-timelady @katelyndestini95 @munsonswhore86 @kelsietilley-blog @figmentofquinn @champagne-glamour @ilovecupcakesandtea @bimbobaggins69 @munsonsgirl71 @sidthedollface2 @eddiessweetheart86   @miarosso @micheledawn1975 @eddiescorrodedcoffin86 @takeitsteddie @tiannamortis @sllooney @manda-panda-monium @prestinalove @sunfl0wern1kk1 @pbeckn26 @yogizzz @justmeandmymeanderingthoughts @samunson83 @spidey-fez @loving-and-dreaming @sl-tfor-joseph-quinn @harrys-tittie  @hoesbloated @sheisjoeschateau @tanyaherondale @marymunsonloves @freezaz123 @ladyapplejackdnd @iammeandonlyme @novelnovella
401 notes · View notes
chimmyboii · 2 years
Text
Just Go With it (Part 1)
Tumblr media
Eddie Munson x Cheerleader fem reader
Plot: When Eddie is humiliated by Jason in the school cafeteria, cheerleader Y/N L/N decides to step in. 
Disclaimer: okay so i decided to try something a bit different. there is a reason for the unexpected kiss which will be revealed in later parts. 
Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 
Tapping her foot against the tiled floor, Y/N sighed again for the umpteenth time as she waits in line for the vending machine. After the student in front of her leaves, she steps forward and places her money into the slot. Just as the can of coke fell down, she heard cheers and laughter coming from the cafeteria. Quickly, she bent down and picked up the cold can before speed walking towards the cafeteria. 
As Y/N walks through the door, Eddie Munson storms passed, covered in what looks like spaghetti. Y/N frowns as her eyes connect with his, his doe eyes are welled up with tears, he walks out the room with his head down. Y/N looks towards the table Eddie normally sits at and spots Jason holding onto the window ledge, crying with laughter. Walking further into the room, Y/N gets a clear look at the mess. The floor where Eddie had originally sat was covered in mince and pasta, the red sauce all over the floor. Both Dustin and Gareth had been splattered on by the looks of it, Mike was rubbing sauce from Dustin face. Fire seemed to rise in Y/N belly as she looked at the culprit - who stands there laughing like it’s the most funniest thing he had ever seen. Y/N goes to clench her fist when she realises she still held the can of coke. 
Looking down, an idea dawned on her. Smirking, Y/N shook the can really hard before waltzing over to Jason’s still laughing form. He straightens up slightly when his blue eyes spot her. His smile widens, if possible, as she stops in front of him.
“Hey Jase!” She chirped, batting her eyelashes and holds out the can of fizzed up coke. “They didn’t have any diet and you know I’m trying so hard to stay in shape for the championship game. You want it?” 
Please say yes, Y/N begged in her mind. She watches as Jason gulps, his eyes looking from her lips to her eyes again before he nods once. She presses the can into his outstretched palm, letting her fingers trail along his knuckles before pulling away. Y/N watches as he pulls back the tab, her eyes widening with glee as the fizz erupts, exploding in Jason’s face soaking him completely. Jason’s white t-shirt is brown with the liquid. His blue eyes are wide with shock as they look at her. Y/N makes a show and lifts her hands to her mouth. 
“Oopsie daisy, I forgot to say I dropped it,” Laughter echoes around the cafeteria, making Jason’s face burn. Leaning over she whispers in Jason’s ear. “Not so funny now, is it?” Pulling back, Y/N smirks before walking to the cheerleading table and joining the rest of her friends.  
-
After the cafeteria incident, Eddie Munson vanished. For two whole weeks, Y/N eyes kept drifting to the Hellfire table to find the chair at the top of the table empty. Everything thing went back to normal, like nothing had happened. Like Eddie Munson didn’t exist. All except Y/N. It was weird not seeing the long-haired metal head not jumping on tables, shouting about that damn fantasy game he’s obsessed with. It was just plain weird. Which is why Y/N found herself walking up to the Hellfire table one afternoon. The five boys were chatting amongst themselves when Y/N stopped at the bottom of the table, at first they didn’t notice her until she cleared her throat loudly. All eyes snap to her, two widen in shock and the other three glare at her. Y/N tugs at her green cheer skirt nervously. 
“Hey guys,” she starts, her voice wobbling with nerves. The brown-haired boy, who Y/N recognises as Gareth from her math class, squints at her. “Have you seen Eddie?” 
“Why the hell do you want to know?” Gareth snaps and Y/N shrinks back slightly. Fuck, Y/N thinks, why do I want to know? Y/N was lost for words and Gareth snickered. “Missing having someone to pick on, is that it?” Y/N is quick to shake her head.  
“No! I just wondered if he was okay, I just haven’t see him in a while,” Dustin looked at the cheerleader in front of him, she seemed skittish as she kept fiddling with the white cardigan she wore over her cheer uniform. It was weird, Dustin thought, considering he had never seen Eddie or her ever interact with one another. 
“He’s alright,” Dustin answered her, cutting off Gareth who in turn shot him a glare. Y/N visibly relaxed, her shoulders dropped as she nodded. 
“Okay, thank you Dustin,” Dustin’s eyes widen as she said his name and smiled before walking back to her table. 
“What the fuck, man?” Mike breathed, like he was holding his breath the entire time Y/N was here. “Since when were Eddie and Y/N L/N friends?” Gareth snorted.
“They’re not,” Jeff spoke, taking a sip of his coke. “As far as I’m aware anyway, but I’m pretty sure Eddie would have mentioned something about being friends with the Princess of Hawkins High,” Gareth nodded in agreement, his eyes on Y/N at the cheerleaders table. She sat next to Chrissy, twirling her hair on her index finger, seemingly engrossed in what the girl was saying. 
“I don’t like her,” Gareth announces causing Dustin to let out a loud laugh.
“Yeah no shit man, you looked ready to bite her fucking head off,” Both Jeff and Mike hum in agreement with what Dustin said but Gareth just rolled his eyes.
“She just seems fake,” he continues, his eyes falling back on the cheerleader. “I don’t know how to describe it, there’s just something about her that’s off,” Dustin rolls his eyes at that.
“She only spoke to us for five minutes,” Gareth clicks his fingers. 
“See! That’s just it, why talk to us at all. Why ask about Eddie? Aren’t we beneath the cheer squad?” 
Mike shrugs his shoulders. “Maybe she’s nice, you know, not like the other cheerleaders.” Dustin hums in agreement before clicking his own fingers.
“Or maybe she has a crush on Eddie. She did make that can of coke explode on Jason!” All the boys turn to Dustin confused. Dustin looks at each boys face, “What? Didn’t you guys see her shake the can before she handed it to Jason?” The boys shook their heads. “Yeah she shook when she was standing there,” Dustin pointed to the table where Hawkins band sit. Gareth sits back, stumped. 
“That is weird,” Jeff comments this time. 
-
Dustin arrives at Eddie’s trailer an hour after school. He knocks twice but still hears not movement from inside the trailer. He bangs loudly, four times, before the door is ripped open and old Wayne Munson stands in front of him. He frowns at Dustin before letting out a sigh. 
“Oh!” Dustin squeaks, taking a step back. “Sorry, Mr Munson. Is Eddie home?” The older man nods and takes a step to the side, allowing room for the boy to enter. 
“He’s in his room,” Dustin thanks him and walks towards the white door. From outside, Dustin can hear the strumming of a guitar which explains why he didn’t hear Dustin knocking. Opening the door, Dustin finds Eddie perched on his bed, his electric guitar on his lap. At the sound of the door opening, Eddie’s brown eyes snap to his.
“Hey man,” Dustin greets making his way over to Eddie’s bed and dumps his backpack on it. “Brought you your homework for this week and some ideas for the next campaign,” Eddie just nods, his fingers still plucking at the guitar. It’s silent apart from the sound of Eddie strumming. Dustin breaks it once more. “Are you gonna come back to school?” Eddie shrugs. “No one's talking about it, literally no one cares, well apart from Y/N L/N, she asked about you today.” Eddie stopped strumming and looked at the younger boy.
“Y/N L/N asked about me?” Eddie asked bewildered. Dustin smiled, happy to hear his friend speak again.
“Yeah she literally walked up to our table at lunch and asked if we had seen you. She was apparently wondering if you were alright,” Dustin watched as Eddie frowned, his eyebrow pinched together. “I think she has a crush on,” Eddie scoffed at him.
“What? Y/N L/N having a crush on me? Yeah right, you’re delusional man,” Dustin let out a laugh.
“I’m being serious man! First she soaked Jason Carver with a can of coke minutes after he dumped spaghetti on you, then she comes up to us in front of the whole school asking if you’re okay.”
Eddie threw up his hands. “Wait, wait, wait. Y/N soaked Jason?” Dustin nodded enthusiastically. “Are you sure?”
“Dude, I saw it with my own eyes,” Eddie moves the guitar of his lap and stands up. He begins pacing up and down the side of his bed, biting his thumb. Eddie comes to a halt, a wide smile appearing on his lips, his brown eyes sparkling. 
“This can only mean one thing, Henderson,” He starts and Dustin watches with confusion. “Y/N L/N has a crush on me,” Dustin lets out a groan. “You’re right, Henderson! I’ve watched enough movies to know that is a declaration of love right there, defending their crushes honour!” 
“Dude I said she might have a crush on you. Key word might!” Dustin protests, his voice cracking slightly. But Eddie isn’t listening, his mind is on Y/N.
“I can’t wait for school tomorrow!” Eddie sang, flopping back onto his bed as Dustin let out a sigh.
“I shouldn’t have said anything,” Dustin mutters. 
-
Y/N stood by her locker when Eddie came charging through the doors, capturing the attention of the students surrounding the hallway. Y/N feels a sense of relief at seeing the metal head, especially since the last time she saw him, he looked distraught. 
“I’m back!” Eddie sang, smirking at the other students, “did you miss me?” Everyone rolled their eyes before turning back to their originally conversations. Y/N turned back to her locker and began to pull out her textbook. As she was sliding them out, one fell and landed on the ground. Sighing, Y/N reached down to pick it up when another hand came into view. The hand adored four silver rings, it picked up the textbook before the body stood to full height causing Y/N to follow. Eddie stood there with a wide grin on his face.
“Your textbook M’Lady,” He bowed and presented the book to her. Y/N chuckled while shaking her head and took the book from him and places it back in her locker. As she turns back to Eddie, she spotted Jason entering the school, his arm draped over Chrissy’s shoulder. His eyes found eyes and Y/N watches as the darken to a glare at the sight of Eddie in front of her. Y/N glowered back at him, before turning back to Eddie who still had a stupid smile on his face. 
“Just go with it,” Y/N announces before reaching forward and hooking her arms around Eddie’s neck, tugging him forward until she could reach and press her lips against his. Eddie’s lips were warm and surprisingly soft and they moved with Y/N instantly, almost eagerly. Eddie pushed Y/N’s back against the locker, one hand gripping her waist and the other caressing her jaw. Y/N whimpered slightly as Eddie swipes his tongue along her bottom lip. She pulls back instantly. Eddie chases her lips but Y/N moves her face to side, his lips press soft pecks to her cheek traveling down towards her neck. For a moment, Y/N relishes in the tender kisses, sighing softly to herself. Eddie kisses his way back to her lips where he presses three more kisses to her lips before pulling away slightly.
“I knew it,” Eddie whispers breathlessly, “Oh baby, I’m gonna treat you so well. I swear I’ll be the best boyfriend ever, promise!” He suddenly grinned which made Y/N frown in confusion. He leans back down to plant a kiss on Y/N frowning lips. Just then the bell rang and Eddie skips, literally skips down the hallway before stopping and turning back to her.
“I’ll see you at lunch, sweetheart,” He shouts back to her, the grin never leaving his face. And with that he disappears amongst the crowd. 
“What the fuck?” Y/N breaths. Boyfriend? Y/N thinks, Eddie think he’s my boyfriend? Holy shit this is not good, this is really not good.
680 notes · View notes
hllfireclb · 1 year
Text
Ok ok some thoughts about Eddie loving your pussy so much, he‘ll fall asleep while eating you out, before I go to sleep. 18+ Minors go play Fortnite.
You‘re in Eddie’s bed, your hands griping the back of Eddie’s head between your legs so hard, it makes him groan in pleasure. He‘s been eating you out for what feels like an eternity, making you cum all over his mouth and tongue over and over again. Your legs are numb and your core aches from all the overstimulation but you can’t stop him from eating you out like the pussy-starved man he is. The feeling‘s just too good and the view you got from up there, lord have mercy. He‘s so pretty like that, like of course he‘s always pretty to you but when his head is in between your legs, eating you out like a professional pussy eater- it‘s just one of your favorite thing to look at. So you‘re lying there. Body feeling numb and your brain is fuzzy when the slow movements of his tongue suddenly stop. You look down, just to find your beautiful boyfriend sleeping between your legs. His head rests against your thigh, his lips swollen and glistening from his earlier actions. Goddess he‘s seriously the prettiest human you‘ve ever seen. A soft smile forms on your lips when you try to reach down for him so you can pull him closer to you, but your whole body doesn’t move when you attempt to sit up, feeling way to weak to move in any kind of way. "Hey Ed‘s“ your voice is barley above a whisper, not wanting to scare him if he wakes up. But of course he doesn’t hear you. When Eddie sleeps, he does it for real. Not even a siren could wake him up if he was really tired before…and you can tell by the way he ate you out for hours, he definitely was tired by now. So you decide to just stroke his head and hair slowly before you fall asleep yourself, waking up to even more head the next morning. "What? You think just because I fell asleep yesterday I’m finished with you? Ah-ah babe, that‘s my breakfast" he smirks before starting to eat you out again. Haaa, what a romantic boyfriend </3
2K notes · View notes
edsmunsonsworld · 2 years
Text
Misinterpreted Love
Eddie Munson x fem! reader
Tumblr media
(not my gif)
Description: Having fun with your friends at the fair sounded like a decent night, but that wasn't until one of their plans was to get you and Eddie together.
PURE FLUFF! the tiniest bit of angst but mainly fluff!
Warnings: Umm none
Word count: 4523 (I'm so sorry)
A/N: I just want to thank everyone for the love on my first fanfic 'Fake Animosity' (posted on my second blog @edddimun) - i might do a part 2 that's just going to be fluff (if u rllyyyy want it just lmk)
Tonight, the group’s plan is to attend the Fourth of July fair. A few challenges were made amongst the group that need to be completed tonight. Lucas and Mike made a bet between themselves to see who would win the most prizes for their girlfriend. Steve and Robin are on the mission to try and find the love of their lives. Max, El and Will were determined to eat as many corndogs as they can. But you? You were there to have fun, but you would be lying if you said that was your main goal. You were there to spend more time with Eddie- who was surprisingly coming.
Dustin was aware of your feelings for Eddie, though you’ve never admitted it. But what you didn’t know was Eddie’s liking towards you too. And guess what? Dustin knew that too. When he heard that you and Eddie were coming along to the fair, Dustin was ecstatic. He knew he had to do something between you two. He was sick and tired of you and Eddie babbling to Dustin about each other, and he was especially exhausted from both of you being obstinate and refusing to acknowledge your sentiments to Dustin when he asked.
“Eddie do you like her or not? The way you gawk at her whenever she’s around is so obvious that you do! and the way you talk about her hair-”
“Dustin Henderson!” Eddie loudly interrupts him at the lunch table. The group shared scared glances amongst themselves.
“I will shut your mouth up for you if you don’t stop talking about it. Right. now.” Eddie harshly whispers to Dustin while pointing at him with an almond between his thumb and index finger.
Dustin nods and looks down. Silence fills the air as everyone avoids Eddie’s gaze.
“Well…you didn’t deny it-AH!”
An almond suddenly slaps Dustin on the cheek making him groan in pain. He looks at Eddie, who is shooting daggers with his eyes. Dustin immediately looks away.
“Um-so-uh, these mash potatoes are really nice today…” Dustin hesitantly says rubbing his cheek while playing with the watery, slimy mash. They really weren’t.
-
You sat in your car watching the D&D members walk out of the school along with Eddie following behind them. You were there to pick up Dustin as he wanted to visit Steve at Family Video store.
Dustin spots your car and walks towards you, waving goodbye to the rest of the members. You see Eddie look in your direction, making eye contact with you. He gives a small smile.
Returning your smile, the car door opens, “Hey! Thanks for coming to-”
“His hair looks so soft today,” You cut him off, still watching Eddie as he’s now entering his van. You look back at Dustin who’s sitting on the passenger seat with his brows furrowed and arms crossed looking at you with a blank expression.
“Sorry, what were you-”
“Do you like Eddie?” You lift an eyebrow as you look at Dustin. The idea of Dustin being serious was something you had never seen. He was attempting to be intimidating, but you thought it was cute.
A smile creeps up on your face, “You’re so cute when you’re serious Dustin!”
You ruffle his hair while chuckling, “Answer my question!” He groans. You really didn’t want to deny nor confess your feelings, but instead, you heard the radio playing your new favourite Queen song. Perfect timing you thought. You turn the volume up as loud as you could, making Dustin groan in agony.
“WOOOOO-I WANT TO BREAK FREE! SORRY DUSTIN I CAN’T HEAR YOU RIGHT NOW! THIS IS MY FAVOURITE SONG!” You yell over the top of the music as Dustin covers his ears with his hands. He hates your guts right now. But he’s also content that you also didn’t deny the question.
-
So what was Dustin’s goal tonight?
To get you and Eddie to confess your feelings to each other.
Steve loudly clasps his hands together gathering the attention of the group, “Okay let me set some things straight before I let you all go.” The younger ones groan.
“Don’t whine at me. Otherwise, I won’t give you extra money to play more games. Anyways, you kids better not leave the fair at any time unless you’re with one of us,” he says pointing towards himself and the older ones aka you, Nancy, Eddie and Robin.
He huffs and points his hands towards the entrance letting them go, watching the younger ones run but Dustin.
“Dustin, why are you still here?” Steve asks confused.
“I want to hang out with you guys tonight. I feel like you guys are more fun than the others,” Dustin lies in hopes of Steve letting him stay with them.
As Steve opens his mouth to protest against it, “You are more than welcome to stay with us Dustin!” You say with enthusiasm. Steve closes his mouth.
“Yeah see! You guys can spend more time with me now,” Dustin exclaims with a cheeky smile. His plan is off to a good start.
“Whoa, aren’t we so lucky?” Eddie mumbles sarcastically as he does jazz hands. He spends enough time with Dustin as it is and the fact that he’s going to be with you guys the whole night is throwing him off because now Eddie is going to have less time alone with you.
Dustin rolls his eyes, “Excus-“
“Let’s go get some food first yeah? So everyone’s happy?” You say with a nod, hoping that food will lighten up the mood of the boys. The boys exchanged glances amongst themselves. Dustin looks at you with pursed lips, silently nodding his head in agreement. A wide smile spreads across your face while looking at the boys. Eddie rolls his eyes at Dustin and lightly kicks the dirt on the ground. You link your arm with Dustin and start heading towards the food stands.
“I’m going to get a hotdog. What about you?” You ask Dustin.
“Hm..what are you going to get Eddie?” Dustin questions.
Eddie clicks his tongue as he’s scanning the different food stalls, “Hm..probably just a hotdog too.”
“GREAT!” Dustin loudly bursts with excitement. Thank god. Dustin unlinks his arm with yours and pushes you towards Eddie, lightly landing on his chest. Eddie instinctively places his hands on the side of your arms to keep you stable but doesn’t push you away. Dustin is widely smiling with glee right now. His eyes smile with satisfaction as he observes the tiny reddening of you and Eddie’s ears. You hold your breath as Eddie’s hands are on you with your back against his chest. Eddie's heart is pounding wildly against your back, he's freaking out about whether you can feel it or not. Dustin begins to quietly giggle at the sight of you both.
You hear the giggles escape from Dustin’s mouth, “Dustin are you oka-” Dustin interrupts you by bouncing up and down with a weird smile on his face. What is wrong with him today. Eddie's brows knit in confusion as he watches Dustin.
“You and Eddie should go to the hotdog stand while I go get cotton candy!” He quickly says before sprinting off in the opposite direction of the cotton candy stand.
Your eyes squint in confusion, gesturing with your finger in the direction of the cotton candy vendor before pointing the other way to Dustin's retreating silhouette amid the crowd. Dustin's strange behaviour has already caught your attention before, but now it’s getting quite concerning.
“Isn’t the cotton candy that way?” You ask chuckling in confusion.
Eddie's hands gently withdraw from your arms. You take a step forward and turn around to face Eddie, feeling slightly saddened that you no longer feel his touch. You notice he already has a faint smile on his face still staring in the direction Dustin vanished as he is also still puzzled. His eyes eventually fall to yours, lightly chuckling at your query. Wow… you both simultaneously thought. Eddie noticed how your beautiful starry eyes glistened in the moonlight and reflected the heavenly night sky. You seemed to realise how large his brown eyes were, how flawlessly plump his lips were, and how his curling fringe brushed over his brows.
He nervously scratches the back of his neck and looks towards the ground, still smiling.
Eddie laughs out, “That isn’t so smart for a boy that’s literally the smartest in our group,” you laugh along with him as a growing blush creeps on your cheeks.
You held your elbow up towards him, “Let's grab some hotdogs shall we?” you say in a playful tone.
He smirks, “We shall m’lady,” responding with the same energy linking his arm with yours. From the perspective of an outsider, it seems as if you both are completely in love with each other- which you are. The smiles, the glances and the way you both converse are full of adoration and love.
With a five-dollar bill in your hand, you stretch your arm out towards the vendor, but Eddie’s hand quickly decides to give his note quicker than you.
A small gasp escapes your lips, “Hey!” you exclaim facing your body towards Eddie who grabs the hotdogs from the vendor.
“It was my treat, Eddie.” He rolls his eyes sarcastically.
“Sweetheart, I’m going to treat you this whole night,” He says holding one out your hotdog for you. Sweetheart. You bite your lip trying your best to suppress your smile.
“Eddie you can’t-” He deliberately but gently shoves the hotdog in your mouth. You shriek as you feel the sauce smear your lips and part of your nose. Eddie loudly laughs swinging his head back.
“Got a little something on your nose there,” He laughs while pointing at the tip of his nose. You grab the hotdog from your mouth and hold it in your hand, licking your lips to remove as much of the sauce as you can.
“You could’ve at least aimed correctly,” you chuckle while pushing your hair behind your ears to avoid more of a mess. You felt a little embarrassed as there is sauce on the tip of your nose. Eddie thought you were unbelievably cute when you were startled by the quick ramming of the hotdog in your mouth and the sauce on your face.
Eddie grabs a napkin from his pocket and then extends it in your direction. You were about to grab it but he skilfully dodges your hand and wipes your nose instead. The pang in your heart made you slightly jolt. Your eyes rapidly blink in bewilderment. With a clean swipe, he throws the napkin in the trash can right beside you both. Eddie feels ecstatic right now. His flirty disposition is taking over him, and he is enjoying it as he observes your bafflement and the noticeable redness on your cheeks.
Still starstruck, you manage to stutter out, “I-uh-um-ha-t-thanks…” with a shy downward smile. Eddie notices your sudden shyness and can’t help but feel as if he’s falling in love once more just by staring at you. His heart began to melt, and a loving smile gradually formed on his face. This is a sight he fell in love with. You were a sight that made everyone but you in the world crumble around him. Though, his heart twisted as he recalled he was yet not yours. His loving grin faded as he nodded and delved into his food, attempting to conceal his disappointment.
Finding the rest of the group you, Dustin and Eddie approached a game. You notice a cute fluffy blue seal as one of the prizes. You had an idea in your head.
Placing your hand on both of the boys' shoulders, “Whoever wins me that blue seal gets to…” you were thinking of a reward in your head, “gets to ride the Ferris wheel with me!” you say in excitement, hoping that Eddie will win instead of Dustin. You didn’t have a problem sitting with Dustin on the Ferris wheel, it’s just that you now have a chance of sitting with Eddie as Dustin would’ve automatically sat with you on the ride.
“That’s a reward?” Dustin scoffs. You elbow him in the rib, earning a groan.
“Of course it is. I mean like- I can be a very entertaining person- and a Ferris wheel ride can be awkward and boring if you’re not with someone who isn’t awkward! A-and on the plus side I’ll convince the worker to make us pause on the top to see the fireworks!” You quickly ramble with a hint of hesitation and confusion to your own explanation trying to reason with Dustin to make it seem rewardable. Dustin looks at you baffled. She’s acting weird. There is an awkward silence between you three. Eddie is trying to seem confused but is secretly determined to win you the seal. Dustin is now trying to figure out why you’re acting like this and you’re trying to get Eddie to win you this blue damn seal so you could sit with him. Dustin scans you up and down, noticing you fidgeting with your fingers, staring at him with wide eyes, but you have this anxious look on your face. He notices you glance at Eddie, who’s currently watching Robin and Steve play balloon darts. Wait. You. Eddie. Ferris wheel.
He cracked the code.
Dustin smiles with ease. Now you’re just making his plan easier.
“Okay. Easy. You ready Eddie?” Dustin asks him while stretching his arms above his head.
Eddie scoffs, “Always been, Henderson,” He says with a smirk. Behind that smirk, Eddie is pretty nervous. He isn’t the best at carnival games and his excuse is ‘they’re rigged!’. Although he isn’t lying, he is going against Dustin who has the brains to outsmart these games. Henderson points to where Robin and Steve are, the balloon dart*.*
Dustin knew he had to go easy on Eddie. Even though he understood how to conquer the game, he needed to stick to his original strategy. Instead, Dustin understood how to stir Eddie up so that Eddie could think correctly in order to win this 'bet'. Dustin was unconcerned since he believes Eddie was aware of the contrived nature of the game.
“One round only,” Dustin says whilst approaching the stall. You were distracted as you were watching other people play.
Eddie clasps his hands and rubs them together, “Sure. I mean you’re just throwing darts at balloons.”
“It’s pretty simple if you know how to outsmart these ‘rigged’ games,” Dustin states. Eddie slowly turns his head towards Dustin squinting his eyes.
“This is one of the easiest games Henderson, there’s no way this is ‘rigged’” Eddie says using his hands as quotation marks.
“If this is apparently ‘one of the easiest games', Do you know how to outsmart it?” Dustin mocks Eddie, noticing him becoming frustrated.
“Outsmart what? You can’t outsmart a dart stupid.”
“It’s not the da- don’t worry,” He responds waving his hand to forget about it. Eddie’s brows furrow in confusion. If it’s not the dart, then what is it? Eddie is now doubting himself inside. He needs Dustin to tell him the remainder of the information now that he's confused.
“No, continue,” Eddie quickly says to Dustin in an attempt to know the rest.
“I can’t tell you if we’re going against each other. I need to win,” Dustin smirks, not intimidated by Eddie’s nature. Eddie looks at the worker ushering the people in front of them for their turn, they’re next. He looks at Dustin with a pleading expression on his face. If only Dustin knew why he really wanted to win.
“L-look just tell me man,” Eddie lowly whispers to him, trying to not let you hear as you’re still distracted. Dustin’s eyebrows raise, noticing the difference in Eddie’s behaviour compared to a few seconds ago.
“Why do you really want to know? Are you that desperate to win Eddie?” Dustin asks with a deadpanned expression. Eddie quickly glances at you, still watching other people.
“U-uh. No. I just want to know just for uh- future games,” he lies.
“Okay then I’ll tell you afte-”
“No!” Eddie quietly outbursts slightly jumping closer to Dustin, who jolted as he was taken aback by Eddie.
“Henderson,” Eddie pleads. Dustin felt bad for teasing Eddie, if he kept continuing to annoy Eddie he knew that it would eventually backfire on him. However, he just needed to know just one. more. thing.
“Do you like her Eddie?” Dustin firmly mutters out. Eddie’s eyes break away from Dustin’s. Eddie’s mind goes blank, is he really going to admit his feelings to this sixteen-year-old.
“I mean isn’t it obvious?” Eddie mumbles whilst looking at his shoes, kicking at the dirt. Dustin sighs and places his hand on Eddie’s shoulder. Eddie lifts his head and peers at Dustin.
“Do you really think I would try to win? It’s obvious how much you adore her. This entire night I’ve been trying to get you both to- i don’t know, make some moves. Why do you think I’m hanging out with you guys. You’re all actually really boring and I’d rather hang out with Will but I’m here because I know how much you like her,” Dustin spills out. Eddie reveals a small smile. He knew how caring Dustin is but he didn’t know he’d go to this extent for him, regardless of treating Dustin like garbage sometimes.
“Guys it's your turn!” You excitedly pat Eddie’s back so he and Dustin could move forward. Eddie gives Dustin a quick ‘help tell me the answer’ glance.
Dustin slightly leans his body towards Eddie and whispers, “With this stall, the darts are fine but just aim for the bigger balloons because they’re easier to pop, like- think of it as trying to break through thick skin when trying to pop smaller ones- it’s harder to break through right? So aim for the bigger ones because their skin is thinner and hence easier to pop,” Dustin quickly rambles to Eddie, hoping you didn’t hear. Eddie is trying to process the information in his head. Big balloons. Big balloons.
The worker hands them the darts. You stand beside them and start cheering them on, clueless about what has been said between them during the past five minutes.
-
Walking away from the stall with the blue seal in your hands, you congratulate Dustin. Yes, Dustin. How? That’s what Dustin is asking himself too. Dustin is just fuming, he told Eddie the whole answer and he still messed up. You’re disappointed on the inside because you really wanted to sit with Eddie. Why not ask him? What if he rejects you or thinks you’re crazy for wanting to sit with him rather than Dustin. Though Dustin managed to pop ten balloons in the given time, but purposely aimed for the smaller ones, Eddie on the other hand kept stalling between each throw to measure the difference between the balloons with his eyes- even the slightest difference which held him back. Eddie is sulking, to say the least. He’s never been more disappointed and embarrassed at himself. He knew the way to outsmart the game but the game still outsmarted him.
“Well, I guess you’re stuck with me Dustin!” You awkwardly chuckle with a hint of sadness in your voice. No one responds to your comment. Dustin is simply strolling next to you, not paying attention, but enraged because he thought this plan would go smoothly.
“No you’re sitting with Eddie,” Dustin blatantly says, he is completely done. You and Eddie look at him confused. Eddie’s eyes bulge out of his head. Your mouth slightly opens as you tilt your head to the side. Your eyes look at Eddie’s, who is clearly distraught.
“Uh Henderso-”
“Ah-” Dustin puts his palm up interrupting Eddie, “I don’t want to hear it. You both-” He says while furiously pointing his finger at you and Eddie, “-are sitting with each other on that Ferris wheel so you could confess your feelings and suck each other’s faces off!” he exclaims as his voice progressively became louder.
Your ears suddenly started ringing. Eddie feels like he can’t move. Silence screams in your ears. What did he just say? Fright was slowly filling you up but it was soon replaced with guilt. Did you annoy Dustin that bad about Eddie? Was he over the continuous rambling about him? Wait did he just admit ‘our’ feelings? Your breathing becomes heavy as you take a big gulp. Eddie stares at Dustin with what felt like a mixture of anger yet relief. However, Eddie doesn’t believe a word he said. There’s no way you had ‘feelings’ for Eddie. Eddie’s eyes slowly trace to yours, still staring at Dustin who’s clearly freaking out about whether or not he’s going to get yelled at or chased at by you and Eddie due to his sudden eruption.
“Dustin-” He interrupts you.
“I-I’m so s-sorry,” Dustin apologises frightened. The poor boy looks scared, his eyes howled with remorse as his hands trembles. You take a step towards him but he steps back in panic.
“N-no Dustin. Hey it’s okay I’m not mad,” You reassure him as his eyes were still wide. You place a hand on his back and start rubbing it, bringing him closer in a hug. You look at Eddie who feels bad for the boy as he knows that Dustin is scared of him. Dustin peeks behind your shoulder and sees Eddie slowly walking up to you both, what Dustin thought would be a reaction of anger, was replaced with Eddie’s softness. Eddie places his hand on Dustin’s shoulder standing right beside you.
“Don’t worry kid. I’m not mad either,” Eddie quietly mutters to Dustin. You give a small smile to Eddie. Looking back down at Dustin, you feel him sigh with relief. This was not how you thought this night would go.
“I’m actually glad you said it. To be honest, I still would’ve been afraid to say it,” Eddie says to Dustin with a hint of shame.
“Why would you be afraid?” You murmur, now staring directly at Eddie’s eyes. Eddie sighs and removes his hand from Dustin’s shoulder.
"I didn't want to embarrass myself," he claims, glancing at you and then back to the floor.
“Embarrassed about?”
“That you would reject me.”
Eddie’s eyes continue to divert your gaze, now staring at the rides behind you. Your eyes flicker in disbelief as you feel a pang in your heart. You feel Dustin’s head lift up from your chest. Dustin never knew that Eddie would ever feel embarrassed. Eddie embarrasses himself almost every day at lunch when he’d have his usual speech for the whole cafeteria to hear. But Eddie being embarrassed by rejection from you? Something Dustin never even thought of.
“There is nothing to be ashamed of Eddie,” you lift your hand up to place it on Eddie’s shoulders, but he quickly retreats back from your touch. His eyes attach to yours with sudden misery.
“But I’m a loser, I play with kids, I play a fantasy game, I’m almost twenty and still in high school, I’m dumb, I’m a freak and you’re probably hanging out with me f-for sympathy,” He mutters. Hearing the vulnerability in his tone, your eyes soften. Eddie had insecurities, but this time they got the best of him when it came to you.
“Why would you think that Eddie?” Your voice softly trembles. You always went out of your way to see Eddie because you genuinely enjoyed his company. You felt guilty as Eddie misinterpreted your love for sympathy. It wasn’t his fault for taking it this way, it was society for constantly hating and making him feel like this. At this point, Dustin is out of your grasp and is standing beside you.
You firmly say, in a clear and precise manner, “Eds, I always hang out with you because I want to, not because I'm 'forced' to.”
“I’ve always chosen you because-” You stop for a second mentally preparing yourself.
“-because I’m in love with you Eddie,” you confess trying to hold down the lump in your throat. You avert your gaze towards a random family on your side. You gulp and take deep breaths. Eddie’s brows twitch. His brain stopping for a moment. No way. His heart starts to slowly flourish, making the anger, torment and uneasiness he kept inside suddenly vanish as soon as you said those words. His lips twist into a half smile, taking a couple of steps towards you as his chest almost brushes against yours. His fingertips lightly brush over your chin, causing you to turn to face him. You slowly glance up at his warm and loving eyes.
He leans forward, forehead leaning against yours and lips millimetres apart. Feeling his breath on your lips causes you to warm up beneath his touch.
“I’m so in love with you too.”
His lips gently close the gap between you both. You wrap your arms around his neck, passionately kissing him back and pulling him closer than ever. This feeling of euphoria washed away your concerns about Eddie not feeling the same way. Your heart starts to swell as Eddie smiles against your lips, his hands slowly rubbing your waist up and down.
“I told you guys to suck each other’s faces off on the Ferris wheel!” Dustin suddenly exclaims.
You both break the kiss, having forgotten Dustin was present. Looking over at Dustin, you see his hands shielding his eyes. You and Eddie both chuckle as you draw Dustin in for a hug, his head on your chest as he eventually brings his arm to his side.
“Oh, we a hundred per cent will,” Eddie says in a seductive tone smirking at you.
“I didn’t need that confirmation!” Dustin shouts back covering his ears.
You and Eddie exchange glances as both audibly laugh. You see how his bright eyes and smile are filled with love and excitement, emotions you hardly ever see on his face. But now that you're here, it's a sensation you'll instil in him on a regular basis.
511 notes · View notes
boogiewrites · 2 years
Text
Seeing Stars Part 1
Part 1 of 27 - now completed!
Characters: Eddie Munson x OFC Star
Summary:  A new girl with a mysterious air to her and a questionable past comes to Hawkins. She's armed with a gauntlet of jewelry and the sharpest wit Eddie's ever come across. After a chance encounter at a party, Eddie becomes a bit smitten with her. The problem is, she's an unreadable brick wall when she's sober. Will Eddie's attentive persistence help him break down the walls she's put up to protect herself from not getting hurt? Or will Eddie be the one who ends up with wounds to hide? A story about learning lessons the hard way when it comes to letting people in. Vulnerability and honesty will always be rewarded. Even if it doesn't feel that way at first.
Comment & Reblog to let me know you like it and want more Eddie content!
Parts 2+ here.
Warnings/Triggers: Introductory Chapter. FLIRTING. Undeniable chemistry. Mystery. Eddie turns on his charm and flirts. Self-deprecating humor.
Tumblr media
It was a hot summer night, the heat coming off the asphalt as he made his way up the driveway to the front door. This would probably be the last party of the summer before school started back. Since it wasn’t being thrown by a high schooler, Eddie was inclined to go. He hoped there’d be good drinks and weed since things had been slim since Rick had gone to jail. He wasn’t excited for school to start back, only eager to get it the fuck over with this time. The third time’s a charm after all.
The house was full of moving bodies, a good stereo system pumping out music and writhing bodies in the living room gathered and rubbing against one another. Large men ran around screaming, some naked some with lampshades on their heads. One was running and holding a bra like a flag with a girl holding her naked chest and chasing after him.
Not immediately knowing anyone Eddie moves slowly through the house and gets a feel for things. He knew who owned the house but didn’t see them anywhere. They were probably behind a locked door with at least one girl and he was feeling a little lonely truth be told.
He made his way to the kitchen, waved, and nodded hello as he grabbed a beer and downed it quicker than he meant to, but hey, he wasn’t paying for it.
He was never much for dancing. He likes to play music or experience it with giant headphones while laying in bed. But the people on the floor seemed to not be able to relate. Most were vaguely familiar, the town not being huge made it easy to keep track of people. There were some usual suspects and a smattering of new faces. A few girls stood out, most connected at the hip with a guy except for one who was dancing up on another girl.
After a song or two of not terrible but not his taste in songs he figures he’ll call it a bust. He tried and now he could go back home and retreat and nurse his wounded ego.
He stiff-shouldered his way through the dance floor, a direct line to the kitchen with his head down and eyes forward. A body suddenly is shoved into him, a girl. The one that had been working her seductive charms on the dance floor from before. The beers they held got knocked and poured over both of them. Whatever was left in the can the girl threw in a larger man’s face.
“I SAID FUCK OFF!” She shouted, throwing the now empty beer can at his head. Eddie wasn’t a fighter but he also wasn’t going to stand and let someone hit a woman. He put his arm out in front of her and stood between them. The drunken man looked past him and shook his head.
“Not worth it, you fuckin skank.”
“I said no you fuckin missing link looking mother fucker!” She shouted over Eddie's shoulder moving from behind him.
“Hey! Hey!” He grabbed her shoulders to keep her from going forward further. As soon as he switched her attention he could tell she was drunk.
“Oh shit.” She said her face falling from anger to curiosity. She saw the soaked shirt sticking to his skin and looks down at her chest realizing she was in the same situation. “Aw fuck the beer. Some ASSHOLE doesn’t know what no means.” She screamed the insult again at the guy that was now out of sight.
“C’mon let’s go try to soak some of this up, huh?” He suggested, eyes darting from her chest to the direction the guy had went. A soaked white muscle shirt and no bra left little to the imagination. She grumbled and knocked his hands off her shoulders.
“Fine.” She groaned as he held out his hand for her. She sighed then reluctantly takes it as he led her to the kitchen to grab a roll of paper towels and then head outside. He figured she needed a break from the stuffy smokey air of the house. He wrapped a few circles of paper towel and handed it off to her, she grumbled as she squeezed her shirt, wringing out the beer.
“At least your shirts black.” She finally talks to him instead of ignoring him.
“Huh?”
“Your shirt. It’s black. The beer won’t stain it.” She states obviously, looking up to meet his gaze for the first time. She had a set of green, intimidating but pretty eyes. She showed no hesitation of shyness as she looked him over head to toe while wringing her ancient men's muscle tank out with a graphic of a car in it that was so worn you could barely make out what it was. “I like your shirt.” She admits. “Dio. Fuckin metal. I dig it.” She gives an approving nod before returning her eyes to her project of drying herself off.
“Oh?” His voice cracked with surprise, both half bent forward and squeezing at their shirts. “You like Dio?”
“Hell yeah dude.” She nods approvingly. “So you’re like what? A metal head?” She saw the wallet chain and the black jeans with rips and tears. He wore hard silver jewelry and a hardy belt buckle. It all screamed metal head. “Not seen many of your type around here.”
“What gave me away?” He smirked. He saw her eyes focus for a moment on his face. She liked that.
“Only ya know. Everything.” She huffed out a sound that was almost a laugh. “Shirt. Pretty fuckin obvious.” She held out her hand to motion toward it, she tossed the now wad of paper towards an overflowed garbage can. She fanned herself with a tug of her shirt in an attempt to air it out. “The hair. Definitely.” Without any mind to any personal space, she reached out to touch his messy waves and gave them a slight tug. “Matches my hair almost.” She tilted her head in consideration, moving to bend over and shake her hands in her hair and flip it back over. Her dirty blonde hair with its shaggy layers and bangs was cut very similarly to his. “That face doesn’t look metal though.” She shook her head and gave his chin a light grab for a split second. “Don’t see many pretty boys listening to metal.” He openly laughed at her statement which made her brows raise on her face.
“Oh, you’re… serious?” He blinked rapidly at her confused expression.
“Usually am.” She nodded.
“Sorry.” He held up his hands in his defense. “Never thought I’d hear someone call me a pretty boy.” He laughed.
She tilted her head, weight shifting to one leg on a propped-out hip. She studied him again.
“Bad eyesight common around here?” She smirked this time and saw him get flustered. She liked that too. “HEY BLONDIE!?” She shouted to a girl by the kitchen door. “Throw us a few beers?” This blondie must’ve been afraid of her because she scurried and tossed the beers from a distance like this girl might bite. Eddie blushed a little deeper with that thought in his head. “You mean a good lookin' and nice guy like you isn’t swimming in pussy? In a place like this? Where everyone’s an uptight asshole who could be in a fuckin' Sears catalog?”
“Can’t say I am.” He chuckled and cracked open the beer. “You aren’t from around here are you?”
“Nope.” She shook her head and took a big swig. “Just moved here two months ago.” She finished the beer and opened another after crushing the can against her hip. Eddie looked her over, a bit in shock from the experience.
“Where’d you move from?” He asked, genuinely curious. She started patting her hips and ass, looking around at herself, and then let out a defeated sigh.
“You got a cigarette? I don’t know if I smoked all mine or if someone took them.” She grumbled and pulled a lighter with little moons and stars out of the front pocket of her worn bell-bottom jeans. They were decorated with patches over the holes she’d worn in them. There was a giant star on the ass of them, some smiley faces, and flower patches with one that was simply a middle finger. Some she’d sewn over or put scraps of fabric under the holes if it was anywhere that would’ve shown her ass since she wasn’t someone who wore underwear often.
“Yeah.” He declares without hesitation, handing her one and taking one for herself.
“Thanks.” She muttered with her between her lips before taking a drag. “Where you think I moved from?” She challenged. He took the opportunity to look her over without fear of pissing her off. Her jeans came down low on her body, the muscle tank showing off a soft stomach that bowed out to rounded hips. A collection of keychains and keys hooked to one of her belt loops. A daisy, moon, star, and a rabbit's foot clinked against her wide hips. He thought since she came off so bold she wouldn’t mind if he respectfully intruded on her space. He reached for a rectangular keychain and lightly turned it to see what it said on it.
“My guess is Chicago.” He gave her a charming smile that almost earned him one in return. Despite being very drunk, she still wasn’t about to give that away.
“And smart too.” She nods approvingly.
“Art institute huh? Did you go there?”
“It’s a museum.” She corrected. “And no, I’m doomed to repeat my last year due to a series of unfortunate events.” She wiggled her forearm stacked in bangles and beads almost up to her elbow. He hadn’t even noticed, the bracelets doing a good job at camouflaging burn scars that covered her forearm and came down onto her hand.
“I’m repeating my senior year too.” He opts not to pry.
“No shit?” She sounded genuinely surprised. “You don’t seem like you’d be in high school still. Seem too… grown up.” She motioned outwardly with her hand.
“Could say the same for you.”
“If you’re repeating I guess those skills of deduction don’t translate to school. Are you a bad boy? Get suspended and have to repeat?” She spoke with such confidence it astounded him. She wasn’t full of shit like most people he spoke to that tried to get a read on him. It was like they spoke the same language. No small talk. Honest. He was intrigued, to say the least.
“No just stupid.” He states deadpan and he finally got a smile out of her.
“I don’t agree. I think you’re full of shit on that one, man. You’ve got enough sense to not piss me off. Yet. So you can’t be stupid. Dumb maybe.” She shrugged and looked him up and down with a flirtatious bat of her lashes. “But if you’re cute enough dumb works.”
“Is it working?” He asked with an extension of his hands.
“Mmm.” She responds like she has to consider it a moment. She took him by the chin and looked his face over. “I think so.” She took another drag and kept studying his face. “You ever heard of Waterhouse?”
“Is that… a bar or something?”
“Oh yeah, dumb for sure.” She cooed at him with pooched lips. A tiny smack to his cheek before leaning back away from him. He felt a flutter in his chest and one much lower in his balls at the soft assault. “But cute.” She offered in condolence.
“I’ll take it.” He shrugged his shoulders.
“Waterhouse is... was -he's dead as fuck- an English painter. John William Waterhouse. Part of the pre-raphaelite brotherhood style of painting. He painted a lot of women, Greek mythology.” She talked with her hands, a jingling of stone rings and bracelets with the cloud of undulating smoke off the bright red cherry in her quickly shrinking cigarette.
“Never heard of him. Sorry.”
“No art club in Hawkins?”
“Yeah but that’s not really my crowd.”
“Shame.” She purses her lips. “You look like someone he’d paint.”
“I do?”
“Yeah. The strong nose, soft eyes, defined lips. Especially that hair.” She outlines him while she speaks with her finger like she was drawing him. “Turn sideways.” She asks and he happily obliged. “Oh yeah, a romanticism face if there ever was one. Beautiful profile, man.” She spoke of him like he was a statue being studied and it gave him mixed feelings that were jumbling in his stomach.
“Thanks?”
“Not much for compliments, huh? Me either.” She adds, looking down to lick her foot at nothing. “If it helps I draw. Or paint or whatever you wanna call it. I do artsy shit.” She shrugged. “So when I see something interesting I wanna draw it.”
“Dumb but interesting.” He nods, moving his weight back on his heels.
“You’ve really never had anyone tell you anything like this?” She sounded genuinely surprised.
“Fuck no.” He laughed. “Must be a bigger difference in people here and in cities than I thought. I thought everyone was stupid assholes no matter where you went.”
“That’s not not true.” She agreed. “People are more open-minded and mind their own fucking business because you have real problems in a city. So you get weirdos like me that wanna draw strangers.” She amused herself with her response. She was being entirely too nice. “Like people here are all over that devil worshiping shit because they're more concerned with things like where their next meal is coming from.”
“You’re telling me.” He rolled his eyes.
“I wore a crystal necklace the other day and some old blue hair in the grocery store asked if I worshipped the devil.”
“No one says much to my face but plenty behind my back.” He adds.
“I gave her the horns.” She raised her hands into the symbol. “And told her yes I did and she was on my list to give to my master to curse now for not minding her own fucking business.” She smiles proudly and he laughed.
“Probably shit her depends.” Eddie chuckled.
“I hope so.” she shook her head animatedly.
“That’s the same approach I take at school. You scare 'em. They call you a freak. They’re usually too worried to mess with you much.”
“Better to rule with fear than love.” She says dramatically. “Wolves don’t fear the sheep after all.”
To say he was taken aback, was an understatement. He was downright smitten. He was probably about to say something stupid, something about how smart she was. But he was interrupted by a man’s voice calling out to her and her giving a wave of acknowledgment.
“Looks like my rides here.” She kicked a beer can into the same pile as before.
“Oh, your boyfriend?” Eddie turned to see a large older guy looking annoyed and motioning for her to hurry up.
She gave him a subtle smile. “What if he was?” She narrowed her eyes at him as she came closer.
“I-“ he didn’t know how to respond. Honestly? “I’d hope he was good to you?” She stopped mid-step, at his side to look him directly in the eye.
“I bet you’d be good to me wouldn’t you pretty boy?” He stuttered at the sudden intimate attention. “I’ll see you around.” She added reassuringly a slight wink before walking away.
“COME ON!” The guy shouted again.
“Keep your panties on I’m comin!” She yelled back as she flipped him off. She turned back around to look over her shoulder. “He’s my brother by the way!” She shouted across the yard, turning to walk backward as she knew this cute new guy would be watching her walk away. Her ass looked far too good in these jeans and he was no saint even if he did seem like a decent guy. She didn’t want to crush the sweetie's heart too much after all. If she did end up wanting to fuck one of these townies she didn’t want to have to get through him hating her to do it.
He’s relieved immediately.
“Shit.” He mutters with sudden realization. “WHAT'S YOUR NAME?” He shouted as she walked back into the house, but she didn’t hear him over the chatter and music. He jogged after her but he didn’t see her in the crowded house.
He’d met a girl, an oddity in and of itself. And one he was so interested in. Even odder, she found him interesting. And he didn’t even get her name. Maybe she was right. Maybe he was dumb.
Eddie’s brain was usually in a tizzy of many different interests all fighting for his attention at once. It’d made him good at a lot of things but daydreaming about the nameless girl wasn’t making him good at anything except maybe jerking off more.
The first day of school comes and he’s wide-eyed and observant. Looking for the shaggy dirty blonde with the great rack and even better banter. The day goes and he doesn’t see her. A week goes by. The same. A month broke him and he lost hope. Maybe she’d been lying. Maybe she was a hallucination and his drink was spiked. He returned his focus to his attempts to graduate and build his D and D club.
-
“Heard there’s a new girl comin'.” Jeff announced as he set down at the lunch table.
“And why do we care?” He adds not looking up from his work. He scribbled in his notebook preoccupied with the campaign he’d been working on.
“I mean, nothing ever happens here, we’ve been looking at the same girls for years.”
“Yeah because I’m sure you have a chance.” Gareth rolled his eyes.
“Don’t be a dick, you don’t know. She could be into this.”
“I heard she’s a senior.” Dustin, one of the newest members of the club adds in.
“Older woman, nice.” Jeff grinned.
“I heard she’s weird.” Mike, the other initiate added.
“You’d know.” Eddie jabs without looking his way and the older guys chuckle.
“I heard that she’s a criminal. Got kicked out of her old school.” This bit of information made Eddie listen to the conversation.
“Yeah, she’s been in town over the summer and been quite the topic of conversation in the church group.“
“Like we need more heat right now.” Jeff sighed.
“I heard she burned her old school down.” Dustin whispered.
“Oh come on.” Eddie looked up and rolled his eyes.
“That’s what I heard!” He holds his hands up defensively.
“She sounds crazy.” Jeff shook his head.
“Yeah, but crazy can be really hot.” Gareth grinned
“Psh! Like you could handle crazy.” Jeff shoved his shoulder.
“That seems more like Eddie’s area of expertise,” Dustin commented, half-joking and half-testing the waters.
“Oh yeah.” Gareth laughed.
“You don’t even know. One time this total smoke show tied him up and-“
Eddie cleared his throat loudly and shot a glare at Jeff.
Jeff shut his mouth and his posture sank.
“Oh come on, you can’t start a story like that and not finish it!” Dustin complained.
“Maybe when you’re older.” Eddie says patronizingly.
“I’m the one who has a girlfriend, none of you losers do!” He defends himself.
“Hey! I do!” Mike interjected.
“How am I supposed to grow as a man if I don’t learn about this shit from you guys?”
“When we aren’t in public…” Eddie whips his finger around to emphasize how they were surrounded by people. “You can learn about the intricacies of BDSM. Kay?” He tilted his head, and the face of a stern father shot at Dustin.
“Maybe start with just… like… how to grab some boobs.” The acronym gave Dustin a little bit of a scare. Sure the themes ran through the media they consumed but not even having had sex before he wasn’t ready to learn about scary black leather kinks.
This made Eddie crack a smile and reach to pat the boy's shoulder.
“Good to know your limits, Henderson. You’re learning already.”
-
In front of the school in a little courtyard, plenty of students were gathered around picnic tables before school started that day. The Hellfire Club was no exception. Eddie sat on the tabletop, feet on the bench, elbows to his knees as he glared and watched people.
His attention was drawn by a growing spot of yellow. The thump of bass slowly drew everyone’s attention as the car swung into the parking lot, a hard brake before sitting for a few seconds, enough time for everyone to stop and stare at the loud music and unfamiliar car. There was guitar but Eddie couldn’t place it being far away and muffled from the steel.
“That an old Road Runner?” Gareth asked, sharing an interest in cars with Eddie.
“Yeah 60 something.” Eddie's attention was piqued at the decades-old car. Most kids had a recent hand-me-down from their parents except for a few muscle car enthusiasts that had built their cars from the ground up at the school.
“I don’t know of any of the guys from shop working on one of those.” He adds, them looking to the car for answers just like everyone else.
The door opened and to everyone’s surprise, a girl stepped out. She stood out in her hippie aesthetic with some dark sunglasses on. She was half bent, not even out of the car when she noticed everyone staring at her. Eddie could see her sigh, a big rise and fall of her shoulders as she exposed the rest of her body, grabbing a knitted cross-body bag and putting it on before standing against the side of her car.
“Holy shit.” Eddie exhales, posture now straight and capturing the attention of his friends. He recognized the same shaggy bangs, a fluff of choppy hair around her face now pulled into a braid. She dug around her purse and lit a cigarette. He saw the gauntlet of bracelets, sun glinting off her layered necklaces and stacked rings. She was more covered up this time, a long paisley skirt, a white top covered with a knitted cardigan hanging loose around her. He knew it was the girl from the party.
“Check out the rack on that one.” One of the older guys says quietly. She had her hand on her hip and the other holding a cigarette showing a bra-less full figure under her tight ribbed shirt. Whether from nerves or cold her nipples pushed through prominently and every girl looked to their gawking boyfriends. A smack to their arms before a noise of disgust. The crowd slowly came back to life, started moving and taking again and Eddie was on his feet.
“Bless the bra-burning feminists” another guy chuckles.
Without a word, Eddie started toward her.
“Eddie? Dude?” They called out, he ignored them.
“What the fuck is he doing?” They whispered. Eddie wasn’t short on charisma when he wanted to be, but he wasn’t the approach a stranger with no plan type.
She was looking at a folded-up piece of paper, he could see her brow low behind the hard rim of the sunglasses.
“Hey!” He says with a friendly tone. One he didn’t use often.
She startles and jumps a little before her lips purse and she looks up to see him now only a few feet away. She says nothing. She’s blinking in confusion as to why he’s approached her, his look so hard but his smile so soft.
“Is everyone here as enthusiastic as you?” Her nose twitched in annoyance at his brightness.
“I uh, No?” he stuttered out, clearly confused.”You don’t remember me?” He offers hesitantly, hand rubbing the back of his neck, the other jammed into his pocket.
She lowers her glasses with her fingers, an up and down look that resembled the one she’d given him before.
“Should I?” She asked. His heart sank into his stomach.
“Uh. We met at a party over the summer?” He talks with his hands and she keeps her eyes on his face.
She let out a long sigh and let the silence hang heavy.
“We talked about Waterhouse?” His nose scrunched showing his disappointment.
“Hmm.” She chewed her lip. “That sounds like me.”
“You said I had uh… face like a painting?”
She puts her paper down and gives her full attention to him.
“You do.” She nodded. “I’m afraid that I spent the majority of my summer here being as not sober as possible.” She took a drag. “To answer your question, no I don’t remember you.” She shrugged. “So, either I’m sorry or you're welcome.” She offered with the hand that held the cigarette.
“Oh we didn’t… you didn’t...” he shook his hands and his head.
“Oh, honey I didn’t think we fucked.” Her shoulders moved with a hint of laughter. “But I am… friendly when I drink.”
“Not so much when you’re sober huh?” He nodded his head her way and she tilted hers in response. Now she was intrigued.
“You got it.” She pointed a finger gun his way.
He nodded, he tried to keep his face as neutral as possible but his disappointment in her was clear. It gave her an odd guilty feeling she wasn’t accustomed to.
“Listen. Do you know where room 305 is?” She held out the paperwork she’d been given for where to report to and when.
“Yeah, that’s the west wing.” He lazily gestures his arm to that side of the building.
“It’s nothing personal you know. If I talked to you about art that tells me you’re not an asshole at the very least.” She offered him the consolation which was more than she usually did. He only nodded in response, clearing his throat. “If you don’t hate me, and if you do - totally fine. Not the first or last time it’ll happen- would you show me where these are?” She handed off the paper to him and it was a bigger gesture than he realized.
He took it from her and stepped closer, annoyed that she smelled so good.
“We have some classes together actually.” His voice sounded deeper as she studied his familiar face as he concentrated, his brow lowering over some impressive big brown eyes.
“Senior too?”
“Yeah. We’re both repeating it.” He handed it back to her.
“I told you that?”
“Yeah. You told me a lot.” His face didn’t look as mad now.
“How about you show me around and catch me up on what I already know about you...?” She held her hand out to him for his name.
“Eddie.” He took her hand to shake. She was impressed he didn’t look at her scars. “I never got your name though.”
“That sounds like me.” She made fun of her closed-off nature. “It’s Star.”
“Star?”
“Like in the sky?“ she acted confused as to how he didn’t understand her.
“Yeah, I got that.” He let out a soft laugh. “Never met anyone with that name.”
“This is where I’d say we’ll you haven’t met me before. But I can’t really say that can I?”
“No, you cannot.” He gave her the same charming smile he has that night that seemed to work on her. It wasn’t as obvious this time around, but he liked to think it worked on her now too.
“Well, Eddie.” She adjusted her bag and crushed her cigarette. “You wanna give me the tour of this shit hole?” This elicited a bigger more genuine grin from him.
“Yeah. I’ll show you where we go to smoke.” His tone was more hopeful now.
“I wanted to see the library actually.” He stopped their short stroll and gave her an odd look.
“I’m joking.” she answered flatly. She lightly shoved his arm. “C‘mon and show me where I can be a delinquent in peace.”
-
She learned a few things fast. That most everyone was as dull as she expected. That the guy that had spoken with her was curiously called a freak and rumored to be the leader of a satanic cult: where was the ring to propose she thought, chuckling to herself. Everyone was nosy as hell and asked the most intrusive questions all fueled by rumors about her that had already made their way around despite her not even being there. The vibe was different from the schools in the city. People didn’t give a shit there. She had to deal with dentist white teethed girls with high ponytails trying to induct her into their causes and clubs and taste the fakery in the air as they did so. By lunch, she was exhausted.
-
“What’s she like?”
“What’s her name?”
“Do you know her?”
He’s bombarded with questions at lunch and he doesn’t care to answer many of them.
“The balls on you, man. Just walked right up to her. My man.” He gets a slap on the arm he answers with a tight-lipped glare.
“Her name is Star.” He answers simply. “We have some classes together and I showed her where they were. The best places to hide and smoke. The essentials.”
“Show her anything under the bleachers?” He’s grinned at wickedly.
“No.” He rolls his eyes. “Why aren’t you asking anyone else that’s spoken to her today that huh? Why are you riding my dick about it?”
“Jesus dude.”
“Touchy.” are grumbled in response.
“If you’re going to keep looking at her maybe just invite her over?” Dustin asked with a superior look on his face, not looking at Eddie when he turned to him.
“You wouldn’t want her to sit with us.”
“Why not? You took us in when we were new and didn’t have anyone.”
“She’s not some freshman.” Eddie dismisses with his hand. “Plus she’s… “ he chuckled lightly. “She’s a little mean.”
“If we can deal with you we can handle some girl.”
“She’s not like me.” Eddie shakes his head knowingly. He’d gotten to talk to her plenty now and saw how she interacted with others. She wasn’t who she had been at the party. She was closed off like a brick wall. “She’ll see right through your bullshit.” She’d made so many people clutch their pearls in class that he was a little jealous of how sharp she was. He liked scaring people but it was cheap thrills. She didn’t scare them she shocked them. And by reading right into their insecurity. He was envious.
“He’s probably right. She gives off a real… don’t mess with me vibe.”
“See? Wheeler gets it.”
“But you did mess with her. This morning.” Gareth shakes his head at Eddie.
“No, I didn’t. I said hello and showed her around. I wasn’t giving her the fake ‘welcome to the best school in the world, you’ll love it here. Let’s be friends’ spiel.” He spoke in a very mocking way.
“So be honest or avoid her?” Dustin clarifies.
“Basically.” Eddie pops another pretzel into his mouth.
“Noted.”
“You’re more full of shit than any of us.” Jeff directs at Eddie.
“The fuck I am.” Eddie scrunches his face.
“You’re always scaring people and shit and you’re not actually like that.”
“They wanna be scared, man. I look different. They like thinking different things are bad and scary. They don’t want to expand their minds to find out people that don’t look like them aren’t actually evil.” He wiggles his fingers like he was telling a ghost story.
“That makes you full of shit.”
“No. I’m doing a service to myself to weed out the conformists. If they agree I’m scary and worship the devil then I know they’re stupid and I get to avoid them. Makes things easier.”
“Like wearing your band t-shirt. If someone likes it you know they’re cool.”
“That’s a bit reversed but yeah same idea.”
“So is she cool?” Dustin asks, he’s motioning to the corner of the lunchroom where Star sat alone.
“Yeah.” Eddie nods, moving his head as little as possible her way but looking with his eyes. “She’s cool.”
Meanwhile, Star is across the cafeteria trying to be left alone and get some ideas out of her head into her journal. She’d had about the day she’d expected but these damn small-town people were a lot more persistent than she thought. Every other white girl had to try to save her and be her friend. She preferred the ones that were a bitch to her. She at least could insult them and move along.
“You know if you sat with someone they’d leave you alone?” She hears the familiar voice of Eddie who moves to sit at the head of the table next to her.
“Then how would I get you to sit with me?” She asked with her signature subtle facial expressions he was learning. She was once again, yanking his chain.
“Your wish is my command” he said with open arms.
“Oh fuck off” she almost laughed, he saw it. He laughed for her, a comfortable reaction to her now. He’d been the only one to pick up on her sense of humor. She looked back down into her journal to finish a thought before another shadow came over her.
“Hi! I’m Cassie!” A very bubbly girl stayed as she approached.
“I’m gonna stop you right there, Skipper.” Star held out a bejeweled hand. “Go on back to Barbie and save us both some time. We aren’t going to be friends. I don’t want to join your club. That about cover it?” She sighed and gave the girl a tight-lipped smile.
There was that face Eddie envied. Total shock. With a disgruntled noise, the girl turned and walked away.
“Damn you’re good.” Eddie said softly.
“I’m just honest.” She sighed. “I keep telling people that and they don’t believe me. It’s a dry sarcasm or the truth. If you can’t figure it out that’s on you.” She wasn’t speaking directly to Eddie but he knew what she meant.
“People been giving you any grief?”
“To be so far north it feels like southern hospitality Without the perk of Moonshine or comfort food.” She explained. “Mostly a lot of that.” She motioned to where the girl had stood. “Which is whatever.” She rolled her eyes. “Better than questions.”
“Pretty soon they’ll figure out you aren’t here to assimilate and they’ll leave you be.”
“I’m looking forward to it.” She opened the journal again, angling it away from him. “What was the name of that album you were talking about this morning?” She asked again with a more expressive face. She saw his light up at the fact she remembered it at all. She had set the bar pretty low.
“Oh. This one?” He turned to show the back of his vest.
“Right. The patch.” She hit her forehead. “Last In Line. Got it.”
“You’re gonna try it out?”
“Wouldn’t ask if I wasn’t. I loved the first album I might as well.”
“You listen to a lot of metal?”
“I listen to a lot of music. In general.” She points to the headphones around her neck. “Makes you look less approachable which is a big perk.”
“What other stuff are you into?”
“A lot of 60s and 70s.”
“Ah.” He says with a nod.
“What the hell is that supposed to mean? Ah?” She mocked his drawn-out tone.
“The clothes. The car. You’re into retro stuff.”
“Yeah. I like it better than what’s going on now. But the car is technically my brothers.”
“He’s got good taste.”
“He does.” She agrees.
“He work on cars? You don’t see many of those on the road.”
“He works at the car plant. He’s a mechanic so he’s always doing something.”
“That why you move? He get a job offer or something?”
“No.” Is her flat answer. She didn’t care to elaborate and he saw the wall being built back up brick by brick.
“If you can’t find that album let me know. I’ve got it on cassette and vinyl.” She met his eyes and he knew she was thankful he didn’t pry. He knew what it was like to have things you didn’t want to discuss.
“I’ll let you know.” Her voice was a little less harsh.
“Offer still stands to have lunch with the club ya know.” She looked across the lunchroom to a group of girl-challenged individuals trying to act like they weren’t watching her and Eddie’s conversation.
“I’d say I can’t be a member of your virginity club since I don’t meet the qualifications.” He swears he saw a smile for a moment. “But you being their leader doesn’t make any sense seeing as you wouldn’t qualify either.” He gives her a real laugh in response. He wanted to flirt with her so badly at that moment. It’d been the most flattering thing she’d said while sober yet.
“Funny. You’re funny.” He nodded in approval. “They’re less challenged than they appear.” He says in their defense. “It’s Dungeons and Dragons. And I’m the dungeon master.”
“Kinky.” She smirked.
“It’s not-“
“Shut up Eddie, I’m fucking with you. I know what D and D is.” she shook her head at him. “They had clubs in Chicago.”
“Did you ever-?”
“Play? No. I preferred to go out.” She shook her head dismissively. “But there is fuck all to do here. Especially with summer being over.”
“Yeah, escapism is the best distraction from that. So we play a fantasy game.”
“No, that makes total sense. I’ve just always stuck with art in my free time.”
“You might like the art for the game. There are books of monsters illustrated. Some well know comic illustrators.”
“Oh really?” He’d piqued her interest. “Like the sci-fi guys?”
“Exactly. Think Heavy Metal magazine cover.”
“But without the babes.”
“Not if you’re there.” He said it without thinking, being around her made him wanna flirt. He wanted to get a read on her so badly.
“My fur bikini and spear are being dry cleaned.” She gave an apologetic shrug.
“Damn.” He gave her one of his best Smiles. “That’s a shame.”
“My Minotaur is in the shop too.” He laughed at that one.
“Well, I’ve got a griffin you can ride if you want.”
“Is that what you call it?” He saw the lifted eyebrow and the twinkle in her eyes on that one.
“No, it’s not.” He looked away and kept that dimple-inducing smile on his face that she wasn’t sure if she liked or disliked. She liked it but, she might dislike it for the fact that she liked it. She was stubborn like that. “Guess you’ll have to come to a meeting to find out.”
“You bring me a book and if I like it I’ll consider sitting with you guys.” She answered with a more Genuine tone. “Deal?”
“Deal.” He could work with that.
-
Star made her way into the house her brother had bought. She’s greeted with a loud screech of meowing.
“Hello Moon.” She bent down and cooed at the large cat rubbing against her legs. “Did you miss mama?” She smooches the cat's face as she held it, the part Maine Coone taking up most of her arms. “Where’s your man at?” Star asked looking around. Wherever Moon was, Ozzy was never far behind. “Let’s go check outside”. She spoke to the cat as she stroked her, making her way with one free hand to the kitchen door where upon opening a scraggly black cat half the size of Moon appeared. “There he is!” She let Moon drop down to the ground and scratched the black cat's head. “You want some food babies? I know mamas been gone all day. I’m sorry. I didn’t wanna be.” She spoke to them like they were people and that’s how she liked it.
She unlocked the door to the airstream trailer that she called home. She and her brother had shared it before but now it sat to the side of the carport hooked up to the house's utilities. She’d made it into a den for herself. She had her plants on shelves along the top and tons of knitted blankets and throws and pillows all over any soft surface. She gave the cats a spoonful of wet food each to hold them over and tossed her bag to the small kitchenette. “Where did I put those?” She spoke to herself. As she pulled an old milk crate stacked with journals out from under her bed. “This is what mama was looking for.”
She’d had such an odd deja vu the whole day. She’d thought Eddie had looked familiar but didn’t recall him at the party. She flipped through the most recently filled notebook and found the pages she was looking for. “There you are.” She narrowed her eyes, seeing the drawings of the man she’d dreamed about. And sure enough. There was Eddie's face. “You little fucker.” She whispered, her fingers running over the pencil drawings. She’d had his face stick in her head for weeks over the summer and she had no idea why. This would explain it. But it didn’t fully. If she didn’t remember their conversation, why remember his face? She wasn’t one that left anything up to chance and leave it at that. She reached for a tarot deck and shuffled. “You mind explaining to me what’s going on?” She looked around the trailer.
Three cards. Two of Cups. King of Pentacles. Ace of Cups. Appeared in her spread on her beaten-up kitchen table.
“You’ve gotta be shitting me.” She muttered. “Two lovers, a king, and abundance of it all?” She spoke to the ceiling and groaned. “No. No, we’re not doing this. I came here to get away from that shit.” She, annoyed, swiped at the cards on the table. The King landed on the drawings of Eddie in her notebook. “You’re fucking with me right?” She picked it up and stared at it. It would explain a lot but also she had made it so clear in her rituals that she was done with men. She was done with the casual sex, she was done with falling in love and she was not moving to some middle of fucking nowhere town to escape to have some man planted into her path. She had run away from her problems. And it looked like the universe was bringing them right back to her.
Part 2
Tumblr media
Comments and Reblogs help me know what you're into and where to focus my time and energy on writing. You can also check out my Masterlist in my bio or my AO3, I have over 31 works.
Tag List (Prev. Eddie works)
@kik511999 @banannie255 @paracetamollvrr @honeyshiftss @Vivi-m-b @Agent077knight @simonsblueee @suspirianrian @castiels-lilassss @likeficsinthewndwind
509 notes · View notes
Text
Bet On Me (one-shot)
Synopsis: There's a few bets going around: Y/N bets everything on the fact that Eddie is innocent, Eddie still thinks that he's a coward, and the kids want to know when Eddie will finally ask Y/N out. And Steve... Steve is just over it.
This is sort of an AU! because I refuse the ending we got. ABSOLUTELY NOT!
Pairing: Eddie Munson x fem!Cheerleader!Reader
Genre: a lot of fluuuuufff, some angst
Warnings: SPOLIERS FOR SEASON 4!, a lot of pining, cursing, mentions of blood and injuries and death, Eddie feeling very low and guilty of himself (someone give my poor boy a hug). I can't think of anything else, but please let me know if there is something I should add here.
Word count: 3773
DO NOT REPOST OR TRANSLATE MY WORKS ON OTHER PLATFORMS WITHOUT SPECIFIC WRITTEN PERMISSION!!!
Tumblr media
The second the doorbell of Family Video rang at 12:34 PM during the Friday shift, Steve let out the most resigned sigh he could muster, because he knew who it was and what was gonna happen. The sound of the chains, of the stomping steps and the incessant tapping of palms against thighs in some indiscernible rhythm didn’t give Steve any other illusions history was going to repeat itself. All over again.
“Heyo, Stevo,” Eddie dragged out the name, plopping his elbows down on the till counter with a flourish. “So. Any new movies?”
But Steve was absolutely done this time.
“Stop.” He waved his hand in front of Eddie, not even deigning to answer the question. “Stop. Just stop this whole thing. You’re not here for the movies, you’re here because in just a couple more minutes, Y/N Y/L/N will walk through those doors to give back her previous week’s rentals, and it will give you your opportunity to just gawk at her, even though you actually want to ask her out. So just stop with this lame excuse, man up and ask that girl out on a damned fucking date already. You've been doing this for weeks, man, weeks. I know trauma brings people together and shit, and I cannot believe I’m saying this, but I do consider us friends, but even that has, limits because if I have to hear one more time any sort of groaning and moaning from you about Y/N, and still you’ve done nothing to change the situation, I will personally find a way to open the Upside Down back again and throw you through it, because God damn it, Munson, you will deserve it.”
Eddie, for once in his life, was truly and utterly speechless, watching as Steve’s chest heaved after the rant.
“Shit, Harrington, tell me how you really feel,” he mumbled looking at the countertop, drumming his fingers against it.
“Look.” Steve took in a deep breath and let it out, calming down a bit. “I get that you’re scared, okay? I do. Before I asked Nancy out, I thought I was gonna shit bricks, but the worst thing that could have happened is she could have said no.”
“No,” Eddie countered, pointing at him. “The worst that could happen is Y/N could start laughing in my face, tell the basketball team the freak of town asked her out, and sic those psychos on me again because there’s a difference between you and Nancy and Y/N and me – first we run in different social circles. You and Nancy were the King and Queen of Hawkins before even getting together; you were equals. Y/N... she’s a cheerleader, for Christ’s sake… while I’m the banished nerd, and second… you were never accused of murdering Nancy’s best friend, and still have those rumours fly around even after being vindicated.” That last bit was whispered, and to that, Steve had nothing to reply.
Y/N and Chrissy had been thick as thieves before everything went wrong with the Upside Down, but even Y/N hadn’t known she was struggling despite Chrissy looking up at her as her big sister just about to graduate her senior year. They seemingly had told each other everything, and yet she hadn’t known Chrissy was in such a bad place, she was willing to try drugs to ease the pain.
Even so, even after her body was found in the Munson trailer, not for a second Y/N had believed Eddie had had anything to do with her best friend’s death. For fuck’s sake, Chrissy’s eyes had imploded! How would someone who spent their evenings writing out a character sheet for a fantasy game be able to do that?But despite knowing that, Steve couldn’t deny how people still avoided Eddie like he was the actual plague.
“She tried to stop Jason from coming after you, you know,” Steve piped up, which made Eddie look at him. “Tried to talk some sense into the rest of the team to not come after you, countered whatever he said at the town meeting the night people decided to hunt you down. Y/N never believed you hurt Chrissy, would never, as you said, sic anyone on you. I’m pretty sure she’d fight tooth and nail against that. That has to count for something.”
Eddie’s heart clenched at Harrington’s words. Knowing she’d stood up for him was one thing. Knowing she’d done it in front of the whole town while they were ready to lynch him was another. But still… doubt was like one of the demobats, lurking around the corner before striking with fangs and claws.
When he’d been pulled from the Upside Down, bleeding from every possible crevice of his body, Eddie didn’t think he’d make it, and in some masochistic way, thought he shouldn’t make it. He still blamed himself for what’d happened to the sweet cheerleader he’d left mangled in his trailer. Maybe if Chrissy hadn’t gone to him, maybe if he’d told her he wouldn't sell drugs to her, maybe if he’d gone to literally anyone else and informed them about what she wanted, Chrissy could have been saved. So maybe he didn’t deserve saving either, but the rest of the gang had other plans. 
Steve and Nancy had made a sling from the sheet he'd cut, tying Eddie’s barely conscious body to the other man’s back, and Robin and Nancy boosting them through the gate, before helping a limping Dustin as well. Then it was a race against time to get Eddie the help he needed.
Their group was a hurricane as they borrowed, or more like stole, Max’s mom’s car and rushed to the hospital, Dustin screaming at Eddie to stay awake while Robin kept yelling for Steve to push on the gas with Nancy attempting to staunch the bleeding by putting tourniquets where she could or simply pressing down on the wounds where she couldn’t.
It wasn’t much better when they finally reached the place, all of them screaming for someone to help Eddie, only to start giving directions to the ER team once they arrived as if they were medical staff themselves.
“I’m 0 negative,” Nancy breathed, pulling at her sleeve and rolling it up as far as she could as nurses called for a doctor and the rest helped place, Eddie, on a gurney, Steve also instructing for someone to check on Dustin’s bad ankle, who just diverted them back to Eddie. “A universal donor. He’ll need blood. He – he – he’s lost a lot of blood, he’ll need it.”
“Miss, you need to be checked as well.” A nurse tried to guide her to a different bed, but she ripped out from her grip. “Why don’t we do that before –,”
“I said I’m 0 negative.” Nancy’s tone had turned into a sneer as she stared the nurse down. “Either you take the blood, or I can do it myself.” The nurse had taken a step back from her, the determination in the young woman’s eyes didn’t leave room for arguing, so she just nodded and escorted her to a quieter place.
It took Eddie about two days and four blood transfusions to regain consciousness, despite his wounds being shallow, he'd lost a lot of blood, but his newly found friends were all there for him. 
Steve took care of the food, Nancy made sure someone always remained by Eddie’s side as she set up rotations, while Robin had informed Eddie’s uncle about the situation, but it wasn’t just them. 
Dustin with his bad leg, Lucas with his beaten-up face and even Mike who’d arrived back in Hawkins with El, Will Jonathan and Argyle in tow – all of them were there for Eddie, even going after the police as they’d handcuffed their Dungeon Master to the bed seeing as he was still the prime suspect of the murder of the Queen of Hawkins High. Max had even almost taken one of her crutches and smashed in an officer’s face, but Joyce and Hopper had busted in before that could happen, and despite everything, Eddie had smiled harder than ever. He’d never felt so loved in his life than in that moment.
However, once the presumed-dead ex-chief of police took the reins with a government agent who'd brought them to Hawkins, they were somewhat able to spin Chrissy’s death as Jason’s fault, especially because the other teen had died during the earthquake that’d hit as the aftermath of the gang having beaten Vecna, the Upside Down slowly crumbling in on itself, while the Creel house fell apart, Jason’s body never to be recovered.
The story they settled on was this – the basketball player had seen his girlfriend meet up with Eddie in the woods, and then he’d followed her later on in the evening to where they converged in Eddie’s trailer. Jason confronted the two, his jealousy being a known issue, and that’s when Eddie had left, leaving the couple to resolve their issues on their own, only to return a while later to find Chrissy dead, which prompted him to run in fear of his own life. Max Mayfield was set to be the prime witness to vouch for him, which she did no questions asked.
With the agent's help, they made sure it was a story the whole town, hell the state of Indiana was aware of as well. Of course, some was sceptical, some outright refused to believe anything of the sort, yet the police could do nothing but release Eddie from any charges and drop the case. But that didn’t minimize Eddie’s nightmares, nor did it erase the new scars littering his body courtesy of the Upside Down, and neither did it ease the guilt for leaving Chrissy, so hearing Y/N defend him, believing the lie they’d spun about how her best friend met her end, made his stomach churn. 
She deserved to know. If anyone deserved to be aware of the truth, it was Y/N, which should probably be at the top of his confession list, but his spiral was interrupted when Steve cleared his throat, eyes trained on something over Eddie’s shoulder.
“Umm, you two okay?” A voice from behind him startled the boy, making Eddie whizz around only to be greeted by a smiling Y/N. “I’m here to bring the movies back?” The girl waved the VHSs in her hands looking at Steve. “That is if you still want them.”
Steve sighed nodding in her direction and she took it as her confirmation to step next to Eddie by the counter. “Yes, please. Don’t need three more deducted from my pay-check this month.”
Tentatively Y/N looked at Eddie and gave him a soft ‘hi’, before turning back to Steve, leaving Eddie to his gawking. “What got snatched?”
“Jaws 3-D,” Steve grumbled.
“Shit.” Y/N chuckled. “And not even the good one.” 
He scoffed, hitting the till and giving Y/N the receipt. “Tell me about it.”
“You – uh,” Eddie cleared his throat, eyes shifting from his clasped and wrung hands to Y/N’s eyes. “You’ve seen Jaws?”
“Uh, yeah.” She nodded, smiling softly. “I really like horror and thriller, actually. Well, maybe not anymore.” Her smile turned into a painful grimace. “Don’t think I can stomach anything like that after everything that’s happened. At least not for a while.”
“That’s fair.” Eddie nodded along to her words. “Yeah, no, completely understandable.”
“Mhm,” she hummed, nodding along as well as an awkward silence settled. 
Eddie looked up hoping for Harrington to interrupt them, but Steve was nowhere to be seen, having left the two to talk on their own. The once super senior cursed him for it, giving him no other choice but to continue on with the conversation, but then again – maybe Steve was right. And Eddie wouldn’t say that lightly.
He thought of himself as a coward. He’d run the second danger appeared and only stopped when Dustin, someone he really truly cared about, was in grave danger, but Y/N hadn’t. Not for a second, despite the fact she had everything to lose, despite the fact that Hawkins could turn on her, making her become the new town pariah, she’d stood by Eddie’s side without ever really knowing him. She’d bet on his innocence and won, even though she really didn’t know it was true. So maybe, he could be as brave as she was.
“Hey,” Eddie started and had to avert his gaze when Y/N’s Y/E/C eyes bore into his. “Would you – and I mean you can definitely say no, like no pressure whatsoever – but like, would you want to go out… with… me?”
Y/N raised her brow, a gentle smile playing on her face. “Like on a date?”
“It doesn’t have to be!” he immediately said and cursed himself for backtracking. “We can just be two people who just so happened to go to the same place to do the same thing at the same time… with one another.”
Y/N sucked in the air through her teeth, and that motion alone made Eddie’s heart drop. “I mean that does sound like a date, which I totally would go for, but I gotta say no right now.” 
Of course, she’d say no. 
“But.” 
What? 
“If you ask me in like…” Her gaze drifted to a calendar hanging over by the wall, mouth moving as she counted. “Six days, I’ll say yes.”
Eddie was prepared for rejection, but not that sort of a rejection, leaving him dumbfounded. “Umm… okay? Can I – can I ask why?”
Y/N chuckled. “Robin told me your little Hellfire minions and Max have a bet going on when you’ll muster up the courage to ask me out.” The smile on her face turned mischievous. “I sort of want Max to win. She was the only one who said you’d do it before the end of the month. And I want the boys to suffer with how close they got. So, I’d say two birds, or I guess three birds with one stone – we get to go out on a date, Max puts the guys in their place, and they learn not to mess with you.”
“You – you knew I wanted to ask you out?”
Y/N shrugged, fiddling with a bracelet on her wrist. It was her turn to become bashful and nervous. “I mean, I hoped it wasn’t them just making things up.” Uncertainty flashed in her eyes as she shuffled on the spot. “And now I’m sort of hoping you’re not in on this bet, and this isn’t gonna blow up in my face.”
“Yeah – I mean no!” Eddie grabbed onto her shoulders as he fumbled with his words. “This – I had no idea those shitheads had bet on whether or not I’d ask you on a date, but – but they’re right… I uh… the only reason I’m actually ever here is to uh, see you, and well, maybe get the courage to ask you out.” Eddie’s laugh was both out of astonishment and excitement. “Can’t believe those little gremlins bet against me after everything though.”
Y/N mimicked his laugh and bit her lip. “Okay then… I’ll uh, I’ll see you in a few days then? Hopefully it won't take you as long to ask me this time.”
Eddie’s ‘yeah’ was a breathless response, but nevertheless, a confirmation, as he stared at Y/N like she was a Sindarin elf straight from Lord of the Rings while she pointed at Steve who’d now magically appeared back at his station with a satisfied smirk on his mouth, startling Eddie so much he jumped back. “You tell this to Dustin, you’re dead meat much like your paycheck. I still have Sixteen Candles and Nightmare on Elm Street as hostages.”
“Come on, Y/N” he groaned, throwing his head back. “They’re my children! They’ll know I’ll be lying!”
“Then they’ll be the ones carrying your casket, so choose wisely.” 
With that Y/N gave Eddie one final glimmering smile and skipped to her car. If Eddie still had one after everything, he’d be skipping to it too.
But when six days later, he was disturbed by a knock at the door, as Y/N had called him the day before to set it up in a way the kids could witness their talk, he wanted to bury himself six feet below and in that casket, Y/N mentioned to Steve. 
Filled with nerves and jitters, he went over and pushed the doors open only to be greeted by a beaming Y/N as she glanced over her shoulder where he spotted Max ducking back inside her trailer while he noted a bunch of tiny heads watching from below the kitchen window curtain.
God, he was gonna throw up, he couldn’t believe what he was about to say to his dream girl.
“So...” She turned back to look at him. “Ready to ask me something?”
In all honesty, he was sort of glad, that she said he could ask her out only six days later, it gave him more time to mull over those thoughts in his head, and come to the conclusion that yes, he could do it and help out Max by winning the bet, but he’d never subject Y/N to the kind of scrutiny this town would put her through if they so much as had a whiff she’d been in the ten-mile radius around him, no matter her previous stance during the hunt.
“Look...” Eddie sighed, stepping down to be level with her. “You really don’t have to do this. We can go over, say I did it, and then Max can win, but we don’t have to go out on that date. I – I can’t make you go through that.”
As he said those words, he noted how Y/N’s smile slowly dropped, and if there was something Eddie hated more than the Upside Down, it was that.
“Eddie, I’m not here just because of the stupid bet the kids have going on. Honestly...” She crossed her arms and let out a deep breath as if steadying herself. “When Robin told me you wanted to ask me out, I didn’t believe her. Thought it had to be some stupid prank on your part with the rest of Hellfire, and when she said about the bet, that even confirmed it more. I mean what would a guy like you want to do with a girl like me, right? You hate cheerleaders, hate anyone that has to do with conformity and shit, so you had to have something Carrie-Esque planned for me.”
Eddie was just about to interject, especially at the notion he could ever humiliate her in that way, but Y/N kept on talking. “But then she said how you’ve been going to Family Video, how you’ve been bugging Steve and how Steve wouldn’t stop complaining about you to her, and so I took the chance that maybe, just maybe, it’s not a prank, but that you actually like me… so when I heard that rant you went on the other day, I knew it was real for you.”
He had to take an actual step back at her words. “You heard?”
“Yeah, I did. And I want you to know I never believed that you could ever even think about hurting Chrissy. Not once. You’re too good for that, too kind to ever hurt someone like that.”
Eddie’s eyes softened at her words. “You think I’m kind?”
“You put on this tough, metal-head act,” Y/N smiled at him and shrugged. “But… you literally took those kids under your wing, because you knew what it was like to be bullied, and didn’t want that happening to them too, taking on the brunt of whatever Jason and his goons threw your way. You’re not just kind – you’re brave too. You’ve stood up against a town that was ready to hang you. That’s bravery on a level I could never have.”
“You’re brave too.” Eddie instantly interjected, ready to reach for Y/N’s hands, but stopped himself, rubbing the back of his neck instead, fearing he might overstep a boundary. “You – I mean, you literally heard Steve tell me how you told the town to piss off my back about Chrissy when literally you had no evidence, I hadn’t hurt her. I was the prime suspect, yet you – you went against Jason and everyone else for someone who didn’t deserve it.”
“Yes, you did. I might not have been there, nor do I have any physical evidence, but I know, I know in my heart you didn’t lay a single finger on her.” Y/N stepped closer to him, putting her palms on Eddie’s face and rubbing her thumbs underneath his eyes. He hadn’t even noticed he’d started crying. 
Eddie's words were nothing but a whimper. “But I left her there.”
“No one knew Jason was gonna do such a thing.” Y/N shook her head, brushing her fingers along his cheekbones. “And I don’t blame you. It was Jason’s fault… and as horrible as it might sound, I’d rather you be alive than have had the same thing that happened to Chrissy happen to you. That asshole got what he deserved. So, Eddie, let me say this again, and however many times you need me to – you. Are. Good. You are not a coward. And you deserve all the love in the world.”
A teary chuckle escaped him, as he leaned into Y/N’s touch. “Well, then would you give me the biggest honour in the world and please go out on a date with me?”
“Yeah,” Y/N said, beaming at him, a stray tear slipping down her own cheek, which Eddie carefully wiped away. “I’d really love to. And I know who’ll be paying for it.”
Eddie chuckled, pressing his forehead against hers, and her grin widened as he slowly reached for her hands and intertwined their fingers. “You really gonna bully Max for the bet money?”
Y/N scoffed squeezing his palms, thumbs rubbing over his rings. “I’m not heartless. I’m gonna bully the rest of the kids for not having enough faith in you. Seems fair enough.”
“Can I – can I kiss you?” Eddie’s voice trembled, but it shouldn’t, as Y/N leaned up herself and pressed their lips together in a sweet and slow kiss.
The collective ‘NO’ from the boys and a female cackling from Max’s trailer just added to the joy of the situation. Some bets were lost, some bets were won, but ultimately Eddie felt like the true winner. The girl of his dreams had taken a chance on him despite everything. 
And now he was gonna be brave.
He was gonna love her until the very end.          
Tags (crossed out wouldn't take):
Everything tags: @palaiasaurus64​ @supernaturalbaesduh​@thatawkwardlittlefangirl​ @sea040561​ @staryeyedgirl​ @deathbyarabbit​ @m-a-t-91​ @maladaptive-ninja-returns​ @averyrogers83​ @in-the-end-im-still-trash​ @gallifreyansass​ @dewy-biitch​ @avxgers​ @unlikelygalaxygiver​ @magicwithaknife​ @ollyoxenfrees​ @bnhvrdy​ @tvwhoresblog​ @thatkindofgurl​ @sj-thefan​ @lestersglitterglue​ @im-squished​ @strangersstranger​
A/N: I know I haven't written in AGES, but so many things just got in the way, I didn't have the time to but I have already like 4 other Eddie fics in the works.
EDDIE DESERVED BETTER!!! AND JOE QUINN IS AN ICON!!!!
4K notes · View notes
edddimun · 2 years
Text
Fake Animosity
Tumblr media
(not my gif)
Pairing: Eddie Munson x fem! reader
Description: (Enemies to lovers!) What started off as a small argument turned into something much bigger than intended.
Warnings: Swearing, slight violence (from bullies), angsty (but there's fluff)
A/N: HI EVERYONE! This is my first fanfic ever omg. I tried my best at this! <3
Note: I will be posting more ff on my MAIN BLOG - @edsmunsonsworld
Word count: 4000
Everyone was aware of your two-way animosity. He would show more respect for the other members of the group than for you, and you would do the same for him. Steve and Robin knew your liking towards Eddie, but the hopes of your feelings being returned were low- as you both bickered a lot. Though it has never gone this far.
“Well, that’s understandable Munson, since you enjoy playing ‘music’ that sounds like smashing shit together and calling it a song,” You scoff, rolling your eyes. Although you just officially met him a few months ago, you’ve noticed him around school a lot. Either shouting at the jocks or talking to his group. And now he’s here because of Dustin.
“Then why are you always showing up with the rest of the group every week to watch my band?” He smirks, leaning his back against the edge of a table.
Taking a deep breath in you say, “Well, first of all, I am forced to because if not then Dustin and Steve will physically drag me out of my house and shove me in the car. Which has happened before. And second of all, the only part I look forward to on these nights is going to the diner right after your performances.”
Eddie chuckles and straightens up, “You wanna know something?” He mutters. You just stare into his brown eyes with a deadpan expression, not reacting to his question. He leans in, lips just inches away from your ear.
“Even though you don’t like my music, I know you secretly enjoy watching me play.” Your head slightly tilts in confusion.
“How do I know?” His voice deepens, “Well, I’ve noticed you’re always distracted during my performances.”
“Wha-”
He cuts you off, “Distracted by what you wonder?” You don’t answer.
“Distracted by me.” Your heart drops for some reason.
“Don’t think I don’t notice you staring at me, staring at my hair, my tattoos and especially the rings on my fingers” He looks down at his rings and starts moving them around, your eyes following his.
“That’s what I’ve noticed you eye the most.” He leans back and smirks. You look back up at him.
“Hm.” You scoff. “Oh Eddie,“ you sigh, crossing your arms and shifting your weight on one hip. Your tight shirt and tight jeans hug the right places of your body. The warm-toned colours of the spotlights you’re standing beneath in Gareth’s garage enhance your features. You’re looking a little too good right now for Eddie. He bites his lip and eyes your body up and down, and finally to your eyes.
“Don’t think too highly of yourself Munson, especially with me.” You mutter, “I must admit your rings do look nice, especially under the spotlights when you perform,” You say with a stern voice. “But, don’t take it as a hint that I’ll treat you any better- you have been treating me like shit since we met, and you still do,” Your voice softens as you look away but back to his eyes, trying to keep up your demeanour.
Instead of waiting for his response, you walk away towards Robin who is rambling to Nancy near Steve’s car. As you’re walking towards the girls you hear,
“But you’re the one treating me like shit too!” Eddie loudly exclaims, drawing everyone’s attention.
You stop in your tracks and turn around. Everyone is silent. He slowly takes a few steps towards you. Before he says anything, you interrupt him.
“I treat you like shit because you did it to me first!” You say, matching his tone and volume. You’re lying if you said that you’re not scared. Even though you and Eddie occasionally argue, it has never reached this stage.
He licks his lips, digging his hands in his back pockets, his eyes burning into yours as he takes a step towards you, leaving a good gap between you.
“I did it to you first? Really? You believe that I would be rude to someone when we first meet?” His tone starting to get more vicious. “I guess you would think that because I’m a freak. But you were the one who ignored me and shouted at me to leave you alone!” His hands flail in the air and loudly slap his thighs.
You see Dustin slowly walking towards you both, “Um guys, I thi-”
“And do you know why I did that? Do you?” Your voice rises as you question him. “Do you know what I just went through a few moments before that happened? Before you first arrived with Steve?” Your loud voice turns into a whisper, trying to conceal the cracks in your voice. Dustin places a hand on your shoulder trying to calm you down. Tears start to cloud your vision as you recall the events of that day. Eddie opens his mouth to say something but notices the tears in your eyes, which he has never seen before. Given that you’re the most stubborn person he’s met and you always had an intimidating nature. His mouth closes and looks at Dustin with wide eyes and a confused state.
“Okay I think that’s enough,” Dustin quietly says, rubbing your back. He gives a quick glare to Eddie, in order to stop him from protesting back. Eddie is taken aback and confused as to what just happened and what happened on that day. The tears in your eyes start falling. You look down at your feet to hide your tears. You wipe your cheeks as you and Dustin walk towards Steve’s car.
The car ride towards the diner was silent. Although Eddie was in his van with Mike, Will, Lucas, Max and El (hiding in the back). While you were in Steve’s car with Dustin, Nancy, Robin and obviously Steve. Everyone didn’t want to continue making you upset by talking about it. Instead, Robin laid her head against your shoulder while Dustin rubbed your back on the way there.
However in the other vehicle,
“Why did you continue to argue with her even though she walked away?!” Max exclaims as she rubs her temples.
“Well because she was literally the one who was mean to me at first! She acted like a bitch to me, so I continued to act like a bitch back!” Eddie argues back to Max while gripping the steering wheel.
Mike sighs before calmly telling Eddie, “You didn’t know what she just went through thats why she was like that. Yes I’d understand that you would be rude back to her at first, but she tried being nice to you after the incident but you kept being mean.”
“Pfft,” Eddie rolls his eyes, “I would’ve noticed if she was being nice to me dummy.”
“Hey!” Mike shrieks, he sits up turning his body towards Eddie, “You’re the one being the dummy! A clueless dummy! You kept ignoring and neglecting her! So obviously you wouldn’t notice! She even came up to Dustin and I once and asked if you were alright because you kept silent when she tried to talk to you! She thought you were upset and wanted to help you!” Mike rants. His heavy breathing now filling up the silence.
Eddie stays quiet. His eyes continue watching the road as he drives. His mind is filled with many unanswered questions and surprisingly, guilt.
“What did happened?” Eddie quietly asks, but loud enough for everyone to hear. Instead of getting a reply from the kids, he’s met with silence. He looks at Mike in the passenger seat and sees hesitation in his eyes as he looks back and forth between Eddie and the kids in the back. Mike purses his lips and properly sits back on his seat. Everyone is scared to say something or say nothing as it might trigger a nerve in him.
“L-Look its up to her if she wants to tell you, okay?” Max responds.
Eddie slowly nods. He turns into the parking lot of the diner and sees Steve’s car follow behind him. In his rearview mirror, he can just see you sitting in the middle seat staring out the window with someone’s head on your shoulder. He sighs and parks the car. He turns back to look at the kids and they’re just staring back at him with nervous eyes.
“What?” He asks confused. ‘Nothing’ they all murmur trying to not make him mad. They all quickly get out of the van, leaving Eddie alone.
“Weirdos,” He whispers to himself as he watches the kids run up to Steve. Eddie closes his eyes and takes a deep breath and slowly exhales. He gets out of the van and immediately his eyes are drawn to you. Arms crossed with a red nose and watery eyes, walking with Robin into the diner.
He purses his lips and follows everyone inside.
The table is silent. Dead silent. Except for Steve whistling, trying his best to relieve the air. Eddie is on one end of the table and you are on the opposite end.
“Uh..so who’s paying?” Robin says with a smile, breaking the awkwardness. “I think Steve should pay because he’s been closing the store all week. While I..” Robin points at herself, “Have been leaving early and finally getting sleep!” Robin nudges your shoulder, earning a small smile from you.
“Hey! Just because I work more doesn’t mean I have enough spending money for all of you!” Steve blurts out.
Robin's brows furrow, “Why are you spending your money on someone else?” She smirks while Dustin and Mike giggle.
“Oohoh! Something is going on!” Robin laughs as Max, Lucas and Nancy start laughing. Robin suddenly gasps, “Wait! There is someone!” Robin loudly exclaims, whilst violently clapping her hands.
“What?” Steve whines, his hands rubbing his face.
“Well…you’ve been taking my closing shifts so you can get more money right?” Robin asks. Steve rolls his eyes, “Well obviously.”
“You used to complain about getting closing shifts but now you want them so you can earn money and that's because you’ve been taking someone out!” Robin shrieks, gathering the attention of some other customers. You giggle and shush her to be quiet. Eddie, on the other hand, is not focusing on the conversation, rather he’s thinking back to the times when you’ve actually tried to be nice but instead his main goal was to ignore or act rude to you.
“Hey Eddie, is it okay if I can watch you guys play D&D tonight? Dustin’s been raving on about how good your campa-”
“No.”
“Wait wh-”
“Why would I let someone who doesn’t know a single thing about the game and doesn’t know how to play, inside to watch? Let alone you you’ll probably just make some unnecessary comments just to make the kids laugh, which, by the way, aren’t funny,” He states glaring at you.
You’re taken aback. You didn’t know what to do or how to respond, so your sweet demeanour takes a turn.
“Wow. Hm. Didn’t know the freak could talk back. Did you learn that from the bullies?” You pout at him. “At least you’ve learnt something in high school,” You viciously say rolling your eyes before walking away.
Aaaand that’s when the hatred began.
The awkward tension at the table is finally gone, and everyone is having conversations amongst themselves. You and Robin are laughing at how picky Dustin is with his burger. No pickles. No lettuce. No sauce. Just a bun, meat and cheese.
“You’ll probably need to drink some moisturising cream to prevent your mouth from becoming dry from that thing,” Robin chuckles out while you laugh hard.
Dustin loudly exhales before arguing back with Robin. You continue to laugh as you sit between them listening to their blabber. Eddie’s brought out of his daydreaming trance as he hears your laughter. It’s something he didn’t hear that often as you always tried to avoid him whenever in a group setting. His eyes continue staring at you. Admiring your smile, how your eyes smile when your mouth does, your hair moving side to side as you look between Dustin and Robin.
“Are you going to say something or just stare at her?” Steve quietly says, sitting across from Eddie trying to not gather anyone else’s attention.
“Look man, I-” Eddie huffs, not knowing what to say. He desperately wants to say something to you, he wants to know what happened but doesn’t know how to approach it.
“I just want to know what happened,” Eddie mutters out. Steve nods, chewing on his food.
He swallows and says, “Go up to her after this. I bet she wants all this to be over too. But you have to give her space. If she wants to talk about it, let her. If she doesn’t, then that’s her choice…” Steve sighs, “She’s a really nice person. She has such a pure heart and even though she doesn’t want me to say this…” Steve looks at you. You’re rambling to Dustin about some burger sauce.
“She’s told me she likes you. And I'm not sure if she still does. But before our group even met you, she’s talked about you to us- in a good way obviously. She was always rambling on about how good your hair looked that day or blah blah blah. She loves your rings. Like a lot. And she says how you’re so talented and how you treat the kids really well,” Steve says. Eddie stays frozen, still trying to process the information that Steve is telling you.
So you’re telling him that the girl that Eddie has had a crush on- before you both ever met, likes him too? or likED him. Thanks to Dustin's rant about you one day at lunch and you overhearing it then throwing a pickle at him was when he started to like you. You both would share glances at school- until you both actually met. It felt surreal but at this point, Eddie knew that he ruined it. Although he’s been mean, he’s flirted in a mean way. Usually, after an argument, you’d push him away, or he would call you pet names - which you secretly love but tried to hide by showing a disgusted face.
Steve waves his hand in front of Eddie’s face, “Hello?”
“Well shit, looks like you feel the same way too huh?” Steve chuckles looking at Eddie and then you- who is still rambling. Eddie doesn’t react in a negative manner at Steve’s comment, instead, he looks at you, wondering what he’s going to do next. He sees you stand up on the other end.
“I’m going to the bathroom! I will continue to say the rest of my debate when I come back Henderson!” She chuckles and ruffles Dustin’s hair.
“Yep,” Eddie quickly replies to Steve and stands up to follow you.
Eddie waits by the bathroom to wait for you to come out. The door opens after a few minutes, revealing you.
“Hey,” Eddie says, accidentally making you jump from the sudden voice.
You chuckle and look up properly, “Whoa- oh…um, hey.” The smile on your face disappears when you realise who was standing right in front of you.
“Oh I-I’m really sorry. Didn’t mean to scare you,” Eddie slightly chuckles, scratching the back of his neck to lighten up the atmosphere. “U-Um..ca-can we talk?” He quietly says.
You look behind his shoulder and see the others looking at you both but trying to not make it obvious.
Your eyes look right back at his, “Outside.”
-
You’re standing right next to Eddie, who is fidgeting with his rings. His hair moving along with the wind, covering some of his face.
He pushes his hair back, eyes on the ground, “I just want to say, I-I’m really sorry. I know sorry doesn’t make up for anything I’ve done. And I know I have no clue what happened on that day, I’m sorry for misjudging you by the first impression. I knew something happened on that day but I didn’t think it would affect you that much. You don’t have to tell me what happened, i-it’s your choice but I’m just rea-”
“No, I’m sorry Eddie,” You look up at him, and he does the same. His eyes fill with confusion.
“Wait why are-”
“No. I ignored you, and I acted rudely when we first met although you tried to help me but I just treated you like a piece of garbage. And I swear I don’t treat people like that - especially when we first meet,” you chuckle, bringing your eyes back to the ground. You start playing with your fingers, “I-um, well- the reason why I was acting like that was because... I was at my locker and I heard Jason talking about your group, especially you,”
You look up at him and gulp. “He was calling you names, and he was saying how he wants to sabotage your D&D session after school. And I was obviously was not fond of that because I know how much your campaigns mean to you guys,” Eddie’s eyes and heart soften hearing those words. The guilt in his heart starts building up.
“So I went up to Jason, and I pretended as if I was against you guys too, and obviously he knew that I talk to Dustin and Mike. B-but I knew he wanted to get you specifically, and we haven’t even met each other back then.”
“Hey Jason, I heard you want to sabotage the Hellfire's D&D game?”
Jason turns around, along with the rest of the jocks and some cheerleaders, “Who are you?” Jason laughs and so does everyone else. You don’t react but all you do is stare at Jason with a deadpanned expression, causing the laughter to die down quickly.
“Wait- what? But don’t you talk to some of them? Bike and Justin? Or some shit like that?” He says with a confused face. You don’t answer.
Jason clears his throat, “What do you want?” He whispers.
“I can help you sabotage.”
“I told them a different room, I helped hide some whipped cream and other stupid shit that I can’t remember,” you say. “I told them the room right between the music rooms and the bathroom-”
“Isn’t that where-”
“Yes, the room where Principal Higgins suspiciously goes into for whatever reason…but anyways, I convinced them that Principal Higgins let you guys play in there anyways. I mean it looked convincing because there was a big ass wooden table in there with chairs scattered around,” you and Eddie both softly laugh.
“Well we got the everything ready, the cheerleaders and I helped hide the boys in some closet and behind smaller tables. And I told them that as soon as the door opens- thats when it happens. Pieing your faces with whipped cream, throw water and pop some shit. And that’s what happened,”
You sigh, “Except to Principle Higgins. I didn’t tell anyone in the group about this- even Robin. But I was at the end of the hallway in the corner, hiding. Until, I heard the loud commotion, followed along with “Oh my gosh, we’re so sorry, wrong person, and then the infamous ‘In my office now!’” Eddie stares at you with wide eyes. This whole time, you were protecting him and he didn’t even realise.
“But that’s when things went downhill…I knew things were going to happen to me after the incident but it was kinda worth it. But that night with you. That’s when Jason and the others followed me back home from school. And out of all those days, I had to be walking to school,” you pause for a moment.
“As I was walking home, I was listening to music on my walkman. And someone snatched it off my head and I look back to see the cheerleaders and Jason. It was Victoria, Lily and others but they were telling me how my life is going to become a living hell. I didn’t act scared but that’s when they crushed my walkman and started pushing me to the ground. They kicked, punched and pulled my hair. No one was around and they just left me there,” Tears start falling from your eyes, you try your best to wipe them as fast as you could before Eddie could see. Instead, he softly grabs your arm and pulls you towards his body. He holds you in your arms and lets you cry.
“It’s okay, you don’t have to explain anymore,” He whispers in your ears.
He puts his chin on top of your head, “I understand now. I’m sorry I treated you like that. I-I really am,” Eddie’s eyes start to well up.
He rubs your back up and down and continues to comfort you. Leaning back and look at his face, you can feel his breath on your lips as you’re inches apart. You notice his tears are on the verge of spilling. You lift your hands towards his face and wipe his tears that start to fall. His arms move to hold you around your waist.
“You did it for me?” Eddie whispers as his voice cracks.
“I had to Eddie. I couldn’t let them do that to you. I would feel guilty for the rest of my life if I knew that they were going to do shit to you and I didn’t do anything,” you whisper.
“You could’ve told me.”
“I didn’t want anyone to get hurt.”
You both stare into each others eyes, the warmth of your bodies keeping you warm. His lips move trying to say something.
“But why me? Why me out of everyone? N-no one cares about D&D. No one cares about us. Everyone hates us.” His eyes looking down.
His lips start to tremble, “Everyone hates me.”
Eddie’s voice goes from a whisper to a mumble. Though you were able to understand. You can hear the hurt and the insecurity in his voice. Your heart hurt as soon as he said that. His eyes look down. You lift his chin with your fingers. Eddie’s watery eyes stare directly into yours. The once mean, rude and aggressive Eddie is no longer here. The side he was afraid of showing to everyone, he is now showing you.
“I don’t. I never did Eddie.”
“Even with the way I treated you before?” He utters with guilt.
“Never.”
He feels comfort in your arms, trust and love. Something he never got to show and feel. But now that you’re here, he feels loved. Loved and trusted by you. Even though it was very unexpected, it’s something you both were longing for. Longing for each other’s arms. Waiting for this very moment.
He leans forward and presses his lips against yours. Ever so gently. He pulls you in closer by the waist, deepening the kiss. It was the perfect kiss. Full of hope, passion, regret, guilt and love. It was as though nothing that had occurred between you and Eddie had ever happened. The truth was hidden by all the arguments and remarks, as well as the feelings you two had for one another. The concealed truth of what started the fake animosity between you and Eddie.
1K notes · View notes