#so awkward. say something you dingus lol

[spaciebabie]

shoutout 2 this person in my class who i can tell wants 2 talk 2 me really bad but instead of doing that whenever she has the chance she'll talk 2 whoever else is around and ignore me entirely unless im mentioned by name

#bruh lmao #so awkward. say something you dingus lol #ik you wanna talk 2 me so bite the bullet already #gyatt #spacie spoinks #literally. she was having a conversation with my partner for the project im doing. and like #heres the thing #if im not invited into conversation i usually dont participate #im like a vampire like that #and so like. after they're done conversating she'll just kind of. stand there. this has happened twice now #like dude sdkfjshlkdfj #im not upset by this behavior i have very awful social patterns as well and have been thru this (i am autistic) #am i gonna hafta say something. lol #probably #''hey bro whats up with you. i dont mean like how are you doing. i mean like. whats wrong with you.'' #cant say that its not funny when you say it irl only when the ppl you're talking with know you're not being mean 😭 #also like. this person has been staring at me lol #which like. makes me flustered so whenever she's around i panic and my face fucking turns red its god awful #for awhile it made uhh. my paranoia get really bad im ngl!! #its already bad when it comes 2 being around strangers but this like made it REALLY bad for a few weeks #im more calm now tho. rational brain won over and im chillin #i gotta work up the courage 2 say something b4 the semester is over or this is gonna bother me for the rest of my life sfkjsdhflkjs #i dont wanna put her on the spot #the only time i see her is when im in class #and . doing that interaction in front of ppl. i dont wanna embarrass her ksjfskjd

[pink-princess-pussy-pop]

Welcome to Family Video

In which Fem Reader flirts with Steve and he is an idiot and doesn’t realize so Robin basically un-dingus-es him lol

Warnings: Language maybe? Steve being stupid. I think that’s it. 

AN: If you have an idea, leave it below:)

You took a deep breath as you straightened out your light blue, pleated skirt, something you’d bought specifically to impress Steve The Hair Harrington. You started to second guess your outfit choice, glancing at your bright pink blouse in the window of Family Video. Your hair was curled and pulled back with a floral headband and you had done your makeup to perfection. Like you had been doing for the past three months, but alas, Steve was oblivious to your attraction. You pushed the door to the store open, the bell jingling above you. 

“Welcome to Family Video.” Your eyes shot to the counter where Robin, Steve’s best friend, was working, a smirk on her face. 

Although Steve was an absolute idiot that had no idea about your feelings toward him, Robin caught on pretty quickly. You had been Family Video’s #1 customer for the past month and a half, only coming when Steve was working. 

“Hi.” You tried to play off the disappointment you felt with Steve not being there. “I was wondering if Back to the Future was back yet? My little brother has been dying to rewatch it.” You placed your arms on the counter, offering Robin an inconspicuous smile. 

Robin let out a small laugh. 

“Yeah, it was returned about an hour ago.” Robin crouched down and grabbed the VHS. “The register has been weird, lemme run to the back and just grab the key. Mine hasn’t been working.” You smile and nod, hoping the blush of your embarrassment isn’t noticeable. 

Robin pushes the door to the break room open, where Steve has been studying on his lunch break. 

“Yo dingus. I have to go to the bathroom. Can you cover the front for a sec?” Steve sighs before closing his textbook and going to the front of the store. 

You were looking at the new releases and didn’t see Steve appear at the counter. 

“Can I help you?” His voice alone made your cheeks flush and your heart skip a beat. You turned around, flashing a smile at the most handsome man in Hawkins.  

“I’d like to rent Back to the Future, please.” You walked back to the counter, the blush still remaining on your cheeks. His eyes were wide. 

“No problem.” Was all he managed to get out. 

Unbeknownst to you, Steve got nervous every time you came into the store. He had always thought you were beautiful from the first time he had seen you in Algebra but you were smart and he didn’t consider himself good enough for you. His school crush had just recently turned into a full-blown fantasy ever since you started coming to the store. He spent his shifts hoping you’d walk in. He always looked forward to seeing what you’d wear that day. He thought you were the most beautiful girl in Hawkins, Indiana. But today? Jesus. You looked stunning. Your blue skirt was all that occupied his mind. He hadn’t seen you in a skirt in months. Winter had just ended in Hawkins and it was finally nice enough for shorts and skirts and Steve had never been more appreciative. You looked beautiful. He had to force himself to look away from your legs and to the register to ring you up. 

“How are you?” Your voice broke the brief, but very awkward silence. 

“I’m uh, I’m just fine. Studying for the SAT’s. Trying to get into a good college. Ya know.” You knew that Steve’s family situation wasn’t the best and he hadn’t gone to school so he could work for the year. You admired him for putting off what he wanted to support himself. 

He finally met your eyes and he smiled at you while handing you a bag with the VHS. 

“Uh, don’t I need to pay?” You giggled, grabbing at your purse. Steve was quick to stop you. 

“No, no. This one’s on me. You come here like, all the time so I figured it was about time to give our best customer a discount.” He grinned and it made your heart soar. You waited a bit to see if he would say anything else about your frequent visits to his workplace but he didn’t. You returned his smile and laughed, again. 

“Well thank you Mr. Harrington. I’ll be sure to tell everyone in town that Steven Harrington is the best worker Family Video has.” He licks his lips and you are almost certain you can see him blush. 

“Have a good day Y/N. See you next time.” He turns to leave the counter and goes into the back. You watch him go, your heart deflating just a bit. At this point you thought he’d never get the hint. You were getting to the point of just telling him and then just bolting from the FV, never intending on seeing him again, but you knew that would never happen. 

Steve had walked into the back, groaning. He would never be able to tell you how he felt. Robin was lounging on a chair. 

“Sooooo? Did you ask her out? She’s only been in love with you since Junior year.” Steve stopped in his tracks. 

“What?” His heart momentarily stopped beating. 

“Oh my good God. Steve. Go tell her how you feel or I swear to God the next time she rents Rocky I will.” 

Steve turned and rushed out the door.  

You walked to the exit and the bell rang as you opened the door. You had barely made it to your car when you heard Steve calling your name. You stopped abruptly, your heart pounding. You turned. He was right there. Just a few feet in front of you. You could smell the faint scent of hairspray and cinnamon. Him. He was staring at you, his mouth slightly open, like he was stopping himself from speaking. 

“Yeah?” You look into his eyes. Can he hear your heart? It is pounding so hard you are sure he can. 

“Listen, please don’t laugh at me if I am totally reading into this the wrong way. Just tell me to fuck off and I won’t ever speak to you again but uh,” He licked his lips again and ran his hands through his perfect hair, refusing to look at you. “I don’t know, I just feel like I see you everywhere and maybe it just like, uh, a coincidence, but maybe, oh my God this is so stupid to say out loud.” He finally meets your eyes and his cheeks are flushed and you are sure yours are too. Is Steve Harrington trying to ask you out? “I like you. A lot. Fuck. I just feel like the universe keeps putting us in the same places and fuck this sounds so fucking stupid.” His hands are back in his hair. “You know what?” He drops them to his sides. “Just forget I said anything.” Steve turns around to go back inside. 

“Steve.” You reach out to grab his arm, your skin touching his. Your heart hammers. “You really think the universe keeps making me come to Family Video? I come to see you. I’ve checked Rocky out too many times for one person.” Your face is bright red and Steve turns around, his eyes wide. 

“You come to see me?” He slaps his free hand over his face. “Shit, I just thought you liked movies.” 

You smile sheepishly. 

“I do. I just like you more...” You look at him, the shin-eating grin on his face makes you giggle. You realize you are still grabbing his arm and drop it. He frowns at the loss of contact and reaches for your hand. 

“I like you too.” 

“You already said that, Stevie.”

His blush increases as he brings his hands to your face. 

“Y/N, can I kiss you, please?” He is much closer now. Clouding your vision, your senses. He is so gentle with you, not wanting to fuck up what you’ve both wanted for months. 

“I’d be upset if you didn’t.” Steve smiles and leans down to kiss you. His lips connected to yours is everything you’d dreamed it would be. He kisses you perfectly. His hands on your face, his thumbs gently rubbing your cheeks. 

“Fucking finally.” You break away from each other at the sound of Robin’s voice. “I’ve only been watching you eye-fuck each other for the past 5 months.” You blush and bury your head into Steve’s chest. 

“Fuck off Robin.” She laughs heartily. “I’ll take the rest of your shift lover-boy. Go actually fuck each other.” 

You both laugh. 

“Thanks Buckley.” She flips him off and goes back inside. He grins at you again, a sight you are positive you’ll never get tired of. 

“Let’s get out of here.” You grin back and let him lead the way. Steve Harrington had captured your heart and had no intention of giving it back, but of course, you had no complaints about that. 

AN: Ah. Idk what i did here lol. please leave requests bc i legitimately pulled this out of my ass. 

#steve harrington #steve harrington x reader #steve #harrington #stranger things #steve stranger things #nancy wheeler #mike wheeler #mileven #eleven #el #011 #lucas sinclair #max mayfield #lumax #will byers #johnathon byers #billy hargrove #fanfic #dustin henderson #st

[murswrites]

Date Night ⎯ Steve Harrington Headcanon

Pairings: Steve Harrington x Reader Fandom: Stranger Things MASTERLIST 🌸 Join in my birthday event! 🌸 Warnings: Fluff, cursing?, Steve is a nervous wreck lol Request from @musicallisto​: helloooo! so, for your 3 year celebration, could I request headcanons for going on a date with steve harrington? I haven't seen s4 but apparently we all need fluff and therapy from it lol

A/N Thank you so much for requesting for my latest hyper fixation. If you do watch S4, Clara, don’t watch that last episode. Not worth it at all.

Steve is 100% that guy to argue with you over who’s paying the bill

He’s all like “It’s the gentlemanly thing to do.” While puffing his chest out

To him it doesn’t even matter that he’s a guy--he just likes taking care of people

9/10 Steve was pining after you for ages

Robin got so sick of it, she almost told you herself that Mr. Harrington was too much of a pussy to say he liked you

I’d reckon you’re well aware of his crush and... you definitely made fun of him for it

“Awe, what’s wrong Steve, do ya like me or something?”

Cue Steve turning the darkest shade of red in existence

Also him asking Robin, “Does Y/N like... know or something?”

And Robin going, “Or something, you idiot.”

It takes a lot of hyping up for Steve to finally ask you on a date

It’s all awkward and cute but so weird for him

Steve’s never been nervous a day in his life (except when he saw his grades senior year)

Because before going on dates was easy people threw themselves at him

He was King Steve Harrington--so why the hell was he shaking just dialing your number?

100% the whole call goes like this: S: Hey, Y/N... what’s up, how are things going?... Oh that’s good, hey I had a quick question--it’s totally okay if you say no, I totally understand it’s just that Robin keeps threatening me with my life and I thought I’d die either way if you said no-- Y: I’ll go on a date with you, Harrington. I can hear you sweating through the phone S: OH YOU WILL? I mean--Yea that makes sense *awkward chuckles* uh... another question; how’d you know I was asking you on a date?

He buys you flowers. Doesn’t know what kind you like, so he buys like 3 different bouquets

Opens every door for you, compliments your outfit choice even if you decide to dress casually

I’d think your first date would definitely be something like the movies then desert at a local diner

Steve would let you decide on the movie because he just wants to impress you so bad (man has HORRIBLE daddy issues so he lives to serve)

When you grab his hand halfway through the movie--he swears his heart fell out of his chest (he’s in deep and he doesn’t even care)

You make gentle jokes about how tense he is the entire night

Eventually he does loosen up--you two had been friends a while, it was just hard for him not to expect the worse

“I like you too, Harrington. Don’t think I’ll go running away just because you say the wrong thing.”

That helps his nerves a lot--just you reassuring him makes him calm down so much

“Ha, I knew that...” (he didn’t)

At the end of the night, on the way home, you ask to pull over and star gaze.

The radio is playing softly in his car--all the windows are down and you’re just holding hands enjoying one another

Steve swears he’s dreaming--you kinda feel the same

It’s weird how his nerves make you feel so calm. It’s cute how badly he just wants you to have fun

If you try kissing him when he drops you back off at home--he’d probably faint

Steve 100% calls Robin when he gets home to tell her how things went and she 100% says “Told you so, dingus, they’ve always liked you.”

#murswrites #3 years of murswrites #steve harrington #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington imagine #steve harrington headcanon #stranger things #stranger things x reader #stranger things imagine #stranger things headcanon

[ghostdaichi]

HI! could u do a robin buckley x reader where the reader works w her and steve at family video, and shes like not that talkative and robin makes it her mission to get to know her because she thinks shes pretty LOL? thank u!

Getting to Know You

Robin x reader

(No warnings I think, Keith being gross, Robin and Steve sharing one braincell)

Requests are open!

*************************************************

Look, if you told yourself from two years ago that you had to give up the safety of your job at The Book Spot for one at the Family Video, you wouldn’t believe it. The sweet lady who owned the book store loved you and was a family friend, so it was even harder for her to tell you she had to let you go. They couldn’t keep you employed because of losing funding from the mall, now the next issue, you needed a new job.

At the time of applying, Family Video seemed like the best option. It was like the book store but just with movies, it’ll still be a quieter environment or at least that’s what you thought. When you came in on your first day, dawning your new green vest, you immediately regretted your decision when you saw Steve Harrington and Robin Buckley loudly bickering about something behind the counter and Keith sitting in the back eating popcorn with his mouth open.

Meanwhile, the conversation between Steve and Robin became one-sided. Steve kept talking while Robin stared at you, full blown deer in the headlights moment.

“Rob- Robin, are you even listening?” Steve waves his hands in front of her face to get her attention.

“Who is that?”

“Who is who?”

Robin rolled her eyes. “The new girl dingus! How are you so blind?”

Steve looked over to you before turning back to his best friend. “Oh her? I think her name’s like (Y/n) or something like that. She used to work at the bookstore that Dustin dragged me to all the time. But good luck talking to her, I’ve only ever heard her say like four words.”

“Was it ‘I won’t date you’? Because that would be perfect.”

“Oh ha ha very funny. And no that’s not what she said…it was ‘I’m sorry but no.’” Robin starts cackling at Steve’s misfortune when you walk up to the counter.

“(Y/n), I see you haven’t met Robin yet, so here introduce yourself.” Steve pushes her forward towards you and leaves to pretend to be working. The brunette silently curses him before turning back to you. “Hi I’m Robin, but I guess Steve already said that.” “(Y/n)…” The two of you sit there in awkward silence for a moment when a customer comes in and breaks the tension. You go back to work, re-alphabetizing the children’s movies.

This interaction goes on for a month or two and Robin still knows very little about you. Any time she asks you something it’s met with a short answer and Steve adding another tally to the Robin Sucks board. Her crush on you has only grown and it’s becoming increasingly difficult for her to have any hope for a relationship.

“Look Robin if you want to get anywhere with her, you just have to ask her out.” Steve said as he drops another stack of tapes that need to be rewound. “Steve it’s not that simple! I can’t just go up to her like you do and be all like ‘Hey (Y/n)! I think you’re super pretty and I would really like to take you out sometime!’ Because that will never go over well Steve!” “You never know.” He shrugs but it seems like he was the only one to notice you blushing in the corner of the room.

The next day, the three of you are closing up the store and you go over to Steve when Robin’s back is turned. “Hey..can I have the keys? I’ll lock the doors I just…” You look back at Robin and he gives you a knowing look, handing you the keys. “Alright I’m going to take the trash out back don’t wait up, (Y/n) has the key.” Steve grabs the bags and makes a speedy exit towards the back door.

“What’s that about? He hates taking the trash out.” Robin looks around confused as you step towards her. “Robin..” At this point she starts to panic. “(Y/n) what’s going on because of you’re gonna beat me up I should let you know I fought Russians last summer and I’m not as uncoordinated as I look an if Steve put you up to this I’m gonna steal his car and drive away forever to hide from my shame-“ You stopped her rambling by putting your hand over her mouth. “Just listen..please.” She nods and you take your hand away. You breathe deeply and look at her.

Robin stares at you for a moment, trying to comprehend all of the words you just said because let’s face it, it was really fast. “Please tell me this isn’t an elaborate prank, I know it’s not a dream because in my dreams you wouldn’t be asking me out in a Family Video.” She begins to ramble again and you just smile. “No it’s not a prank, I’ll pick you up on Friday at 6:30 okay?” “Okay..” Robin stared in awe as you kiss her cheek before handing the keys back to Steve, who just returned from the trash bin.

“Goodnight Robin.” You smile and walk out the front doors. “Goodnight…” She turns to Steve, who pats her on the back and says, “You are absolutely whipped, let’s go.”

Robin couldn’t wait for Friday night.

#stranger things x reader #robin buckley x reader #robin buckley #stranger things #robin x reader #steve and robin

[fanficsfromyesteryear]

THE MOVIE BUFF

A STRANGER THINGS ONE SHOT

— PAIRING: Steve Harrington x Reader — WORD COUNT: 972 — WARNINGS: Steve getting bullied- None?? — REQUESTED BY: @hcneysvckle

Hello! Can I request a Steve x Reader one shot where the reader likes to torture Steve about his lack of movie knowledge during his shifts at Family Video until one day they invite Steve over to watch the movie they picked out? And Steve is dumbfounded because he considers the Reader a nightmare to deal with lol 

— A/N: I’m gonna be honest, I didn’t really know where I was going with this one, but I think it pulled itself together there at the end. Personally, I like it better than I thought I was going to after I’d gotten the first paragraph done lol. I hope you like it!!

“Oh, my God, Steve, are you kidding? You think that’s cinema?”

Steve, flustered, ran his fingers through his hair. “Well, yeah,” he answered. “It’s a classic.”

You groaned, leaning against the counter with a roll of your eyes. “Please,” you said. “The shark doesn’t even look real.”

The two of you had been going at it for weeks. Ever since you’d learned that Steve Harrington worked at Family Video, you’d made a point of dropping by to see him. Once you’d discovered how horrible his taste in movies was, however, you’d made a game out of your regular visits. It didn’t matter what he suggested—you could find some reason or another to shoot it down. To you, it was an amusing use of your afternoon. Steve, on the other hand, cringed each time you walked through the front door.

“What are you talking about? Jaws is groundbreaking.”

“Yeah? So are jackhammers, but I’m not gonna pay to go see one.”

“Jesus, Y/N, if you don’t want my opinion, why do you keep asking?”

You shrugged, the corners of your mouth turning up. “I like to see what you come up with.”

“So you can make fun of me?”

Snorting, you nodded. “Yeah!”

Steve drug his hand down the side of his face. “You know what?” he asked. “If you think your taste in movies is so good, go pick one out yourself.”

“Fine,” you agreed, “but only if you watch it with me to get a taste of what movies are supposed to be like.”

“What?” Steve blinked at you, his expression blank. “I mean, yeah, sure, I guess.” He didn’t know what to make of your offer. All he ever got from you was teasing and judgment. In all honesty, he couldn’t tell if you were being serious or not, and if you were, he wasn’t so sure that he wanted to spend any extra time with you. What if it was a trap?

“There,” you said, plopping a VHS tape down onto the countertop.

“Really?” Steve looked at you dubiously. “St. Elmo’s Fire? Isn’t that the little red guy from Sesame Street?”

“Don’t tell me you still watch that.”

“Of course I don’t watch that,” Steve said. “What, am I four?”

You looked him up and down. “I would’ve guessed five, but the hair makes you look older.”

“Very funny.”

Snatching back the video, you tore off the end of your receipt and flipped it over. “Got a pen?” you asked.

“Yeah,” Steve said, glancing down at the counter. “Yeah. Uh...” Steve’s voice trailed off as he rummaged around in the drawers beneath the tabletop. He mumbled curses under his breath, and every once in a while, something was tossed up into the air—crumpled pieces of paper, rolls of price stickers, empty VHS cases. Eventually, the door to the back room opened, and a pen was thrown out through the crack in the doorway, followed by Robin’s voice, saying, “Here, Dingus.” The pen bounced off of Steve’s head and clattered to the floor.

“Ah, here it is,” Steve said, picking up the pen and sliding it to you. “Knew it was around here somewhere.” He gave you a sheepish smile in anticipation of the mockery to come.

You didn’t say a word, though, as you took the pen between your fingers and scribbled down your address. “Come to my house as soon as you get off work,” you instructed, handing Steve the strip of paper. “Try not to get lost,” you added with a crooked grin as you left the store.

It was 5 o’clock when you heard a car engine shut off in your driveway. Peeking through the blinds, you saw Steve walking up the sidewalk to your front door. You were surprised, to say the least. As much as you liked Steve, you liked to poke fun at him even more, and sometimes you worried that you took it too far. Him showing up made you feel better, though, because, in a way, it meant that you hadn’t.

Steve raised his hand to knock, but he couldn’t quite bring himself to do so. Did he really want to go through with this? He felt like he was setting himself up for failure by stopping by, but maybe it wouldn’t be so bad—maybe you wouldn’t be so bad.

“You didn’t bring popcorn?”

Steve glanced up at the sound of the door swinging open and was met with your look of disbelief. “What?” he asked.

Your expression softened into a playful one. “I’m just kidding,” you said. “Come on in.” You stood back, allowing him room to enter.

Kicking his shoes off, Steve's eyes scanned the room, his mouth gaping in awe. “Nice house,” he managed.

The shocked tone in his voice didn’t go unnoticed by you. You chuckled. “Let me guess,” you said. “You were expecting me to live under a bridge somewhere with my fellow trolls?”

Steve didn’t agree with you, exactly, but he didn’t dispute what you had said, either. Instead, he made some sort of humming sound that could’ve been a laugh as he followed you into your living room.

After starting the movie, you plopped down onto the couch. Steve stood nearby —close enough that he could see the TV, but far enough that there was an awkward space between the two of you. Glancing over at Steve, you patted the cushion beside you. “I don’t bite,” you promised.

“Well, you could’ve had me fooled,” Steve joked as he took a seat on the other end of the couch.

“Very funny,” you said, rolling your eyes.

You waited until the final credits were flashing across the screen to turn to Steve and ask his opinion of the movie. “So? What’d you think?”

“I’m a little confused, Y/N,” started Steve. “Where was Elmo?”

“Oh, my God—”

#steve harrington #stranger things #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington one shot #stranger things x reader #stranger things one shot

[steveusesfaberge]

Tips & Company Policy

Pairing: Steve Harrington x Reader

Request: So my request is — the reader is dating Steve, and they both work with robin at scoops and they’re in this competition on who can get the most tips & then reader flirts with a male customer & bb Steve gets jealous and protective ya know however you wanna spin it lol happy ending tho ❤️❤️

Summary: He’s loved her, ever since he could remember...Steve just had never had the courage to speak up. That is, until now - Robin being the ultimate wing-woman he never asked for...a friendly competition...a good-looking customer...and no regards to their company policies.

Type/Style: Imagine, female pronouns

Warning(s): Fluffff, fluff, flufffffff, a dork named Harrington, a bit of a jealous boi, and a cheeky ass Robin <3 Cursing, cause...yeahhh...

Word Count: +7.4K

a/n: This was such a cuteeeeeee idea! I’m so happy I had the pleasure of writing it! <3 It made me happy and prepared me for what I have planned next...

Next up is a Billy fic...and hold your horses, kids...this one is gonna be a doozy...angst, tears, and fluff sprinkled throughout...a miniseries that I plan to have a sweet ending.

I’m trying to decide on what t do with my next Steve fic...either a request, or something new (possibly a miniseries for Harrington too).

I apologize if I haven’t gotten to your requests, in order for me to actually write - I need inspiration and time...I’ve lacked in the first recently, for those in particular, and I’m sorry! I promise I’ll get to them though! <3

━━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━━

“Ouch. I’m pretty sure that’ll leave a mark.” Steve groaned in frustration, as Robin mocked him from the glass-slide window. He turned around, employee issued-hat in hand...chocolate blast smeared across his face. Just another day at Scoops Ahoy for Steve Harrington...

“Har, har,” He fussed while giving her a nasty look. Buckley only smirked while adding another tally to the You Suck side of that infamous whiteboard of hers.

Robin capped her marker. “You know, if you stopped being a dingus, you’d notice that you don’t have to work so hard for your money,” the dirty-blonde told while giving him the you’re an idiot - why am I even telling you this? You should know this already look.

Steve’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion, he pulled a clean rag from under the counter and wiped his face off. Proceeding to wipe down the countertop while he’s at it... “What? Whaddya mean by that?” Harrington questioned while lifting a hand to rub his nose, the stain from the counter (and his face) now gone. 

He’d been talking to a customer and as he was serving her, he...accidentally...might’ve given a backhanded comment - of course, unintentional - but he managed to irk her anyway (So, I was just thinking, maybe you and me could get together some time - y-you know, like back at your place. O-Or mine..-- Well, I mean - I’d take you out first, like before we did anyth- like I wouldn’t just screw you and leave...unless you wanted me to). Yeah...not his best run. Thus, the flavor of the day made friend’s with his cheekbones.

“I mean,” Robin started while rolling her eyes and crossing her arms,” You - good sir - are wasting your time on--,” she trailed off, pulling a hand up to gesture to the sea of people passing by the parlor.

Steve touched his face, pulling at his bottom lip with his thumb and forefinger. “Mhm, mhm, mhm...yeah, yeah, get to the point.”

Robin could only gawk at him; as if he were truly the dumbest person she’d ever met (and he was). She scoffed in disbelief. “Steve-- I mean, why do you try with all these others girls, when the one that’s - as they say,” she paused for emphasis, her eyes wide and her speech slow as if talking to a child.

“The perfect girl - is right under your fucking nose, Harrington.” With that, she grabbed his shoulders and whipped him to turn around. Steve was in the midst of telling her off and rolling his eyes when he spotted her...

She had her hair let down, allowing a flow of honey and lavender to waff off her figure (Steve knew because he’d asked her...I mean...of course he did - his hair didn’t get this good all by itself...). Her y/c/e eyes were far from lackluster - shining with untold stories and secrets that Harrington would lamely listen to all night if she gave him the chance...

She held herself with such, grace - such poise - and yet, still held that charm that he loved. Y/N waved at him, her y/c/s skin almost glowing, casting a halo in his eyes...was he seeing things? Robin could see the way the light captured her perfectly in every aspect too...right?

She was shorter than him, though he didn’t mind...Steve liked that he could glance down without her knowledge throughout their days - sneaking a glimpse of a pearly smile, adorable pout, or simple bliss from solely being alive and in her presence.

“Hey, Stevers - you holdin’ down the fort okay?” Y/N asked while cocking an eyebrow teasingly. He could only sputter an answer - nodding foolishly after harshly swallowing his embarrassment down.

He watched as she and Robin exchanged some...complex...handshake (it had nothing on his and Dustin’s, pfft). “Okay? - Okay? - Y/N/N, this dingus chased off more customers than yesterday,” Buckley snorted while cackling like the wicked, wicked witch of the west (she was doing this on purpose and they both knew it....).

Y/N gave a sigh, correcting her hat to sit on her head a bit higher, walking by Steve and patting his shoulder. “Lay it on me, did you tell someone they looked pregnant? Drop their cone? Get their order wrong?” She offered, tapping her nails along the countertop.

“Mmm, bad enough. He told the girl he was basically looking for s--,” “Not. Important!” Harrington cut in with his words drowning out Robin’s - a voice crack and all...Great...just peachy...

Y/N chuckled, shaking her head while her eyes found the edge of her freckled friend’s familiar tally-chart. “You know Steve, if you’re that desperate to get back in the game, I could always hook you up,” the y/c/h haired girl told while flipping her scooper in the air and catching it; not even flinching (a trick that Harrington himself actually taught her - explaining that it’s all in the wrists -see?).

Steve gave an awkward, half-hearted laugh. Waving her off and using the excuse to attend to the next customers as his ticket out of that conversation. In the middle of Steve trying to avoid his own humiliation - he’d missed the way her lips twitched as he denied her offer...as if she’d wanted no to be his answer...

Why was Steve embarrassed about that though? - Well...it’s kinda embarrassing to tell someone that they didn’t want to be set up with their friends...because...even through all the corny jokes, horrendous pick-up lines, and random talks at work (and while babysitting, and while just...well...hanging out...) - he still couldn’t work the nerve to ask her out. After all this time...

He’d known Y/N since, what? - Diapers? Yeah...something like that. Either way, Steve was sure of one thing - he was in love with Y/N Y/L/N and there was nothing he could do to stop himself from falling. In fact, he found that he kept falling...every....single...day.

He remembered growing up and the idea of even kissing a girl was just the invitation of catching cooties and dying. Steve could remember thinking that he’d never want to even be close enough to a female to...to see that her smile was slightly crooked - only because she always had this sweet little way of grinning, to begin with. He never wanted to be close enough to a girl to realize that their eyes swam more than just one color; no one shade could define the pigment contained in those orbs...

Steve had never imagined he’d want to be close enough to a girl as to remember the way she smelled. Honey and jasmine? No...sometimes it was pine and what he could only describe, as a summer’s night. Yeah...young Steve would be floored to see him now...

Then, they hit middle school; nothing changed...not too much. Steve was still skeptical about this whole girl thing, but he was slowly giving it a chance. Y/N was still his best friend - she still came over and they’d ride their bikes down to the park and sit on the swings...just talking about their day. Or sometimes, they’d just stay inside - binge as many VHSes as they could (Y/N always liked to add her two-cent. Ugh, see this is why they ended up dying! -- What? I would’ve totally taken the red one! -- She’s crazy! -- He’s so smart! -- I thought the mom would be more upset...-- Does that guy even care? -- What color is that? -- Is that misspelled? Steve, Steve! Look!).

Nothing changed...no...well, besides Harrington slowly finding himself looking a second too long at her; smiling a bit too hard at her; listening a little too much to her. He thought it was puberty doing this to him, so he pushed it aside...Then, high school...

Steve remembers it as the first day of November. They had a few months of high school under their belt and were already easing into it all. Turns out, Harrington was what they called...a chick magnet...he started young, what can he say? Though, being fifteen and only barely figuring out where his classroom was...he didn’t care. There wasn’t a reason to care about his looks just yet...he was still trying to figure out which styles were cooler (Senior boys out-ranked him by far, so he had to stand by).

The first day of November...he was walking Y/N home; as he always did (before he got his BMW and his license). She didn’t live too far from him - just down the street, taking two right, then going straight until you passed a big yellow house...stopping at the quaint grey one. He didn’t mind the walk, it was actually kinda nice just to be able to express every thought and emotion that he’d hidden throughout his day. Especially to someone who cared so much about what he had to say.

She’d been wearing his jacket - it was a bit chilly and he didn’t want to be a dick and not give her his coat (his mother would kill him if he treated Y/N wrong). And then - I fell, right? Like in the middle of friggin class...and everyone - and I mean everyone - even Daniel Corvin and he’s like...basically ‘too cool for school’ if you know what I mean. Gosh, I just...I just wish you’d been there. She had been recounting an incident in physical science, telling Steve in great detail how she’d spilled two beakers of - God knows what - on Sally McDonald and Tracie Nelson.

Then - then, Steve - I tried to help them, you know-- like get the stain out...Steve...that stain would not...come out...I thought Tracie was going to bite my head off! Steve had only laughed, getting a shove from the girl in the process. Sorry, sorry - it’s just... If I were there, Y/N - I’d have laughed at you and probably do something dumber. She had smiled at him, and somehow, someway...it was that moment...that moment on the first day of November...walking home from school on a Tuesday...had he felt it.

The sky was a cloudy grey and it had everything bathed in a drab stillness. The wind being the only evidence of time moving as it lifted Y/N’s hair to fly out behind her. Her hands were buried in the pockets of a jacket not belonging to her, too big to fit properly, yet Steve found it to fit her perfectly. Harrington had been carrying her backpack for her (gentlemanly as always) and he’d almost dropped both their bags in the process of watching her...watching her idly kick the fallen leaves as she retold the story.

It was so simple. There was nothing special about that day, he hadn’t won a basketball game (being MVP), nor had he passed some big exam, or even find out he was secretly the heir to some ancient throne...no...nothing that day could explain how he’d acted - nothing causing him to burst with happiness and emotion, the only answer? Steve simply being there with her.

He was in love...

It carried throughout his high school days. He found that despite how many baskets he shot, girls he tempted, and papers he passed...she was still...there. The feelings...still there. Y/N would sit front row, cheering louder than anyone else at his games (even committing to the away-games, claiming she’d never miss him play for the world). Y/N was always there for him when he had girl troubles (either helping him through it, or talking him out of it) - always smiling, and always supportive. Y/N would help him study - they had this tradition of Monday nights being preserved for the two of them. They’d get their week together, planning, discussing, and deciding what was best and when to do it...she was always there.

And she still was.

Standing only a few feet away; a dingy little white hat on her head as she patiently assisted some young boy with what ice cream size he wanted. Shooting Steve a wink or a goofy face whenever she had the pleasure of doing so. She was still there...after all those years...after everything, they’d gone through...and yeah, almost dying two times was enough to drive any girl - hell, anyone - away. Yet, there she was. Still there.

“Sailor boy, you wanna move or what?” Y/N asked, pursing her lips, placing a hand on the counter as she tried slipping by him to reach the mint-chocolate-chip the boy had requested. “Oh, yeah...sure,” he mumbled while shuffling to the right. “Dork,” Y/N huffed with a soft laugh, nudging him with her hip.

He looked up to hear Robin - not so casually - cough. “Ahem - ahem - Stev...a...ahhheeem....you....you suck.” It was a jab at their private conversation...one they’d had a few weeks ago when Robin, the dirty little sleuth she was...had figured out about his (long-term) feeling for Y/N Y/L/N.

What? -- You’re saying, after eighteen years...you haven’t even...tried...to ask her out, Harrington? -- It..it never c-came up! -- Mhm, sure...wow, and here I thought The Hair actually was some big shot. -- I was! - I-I am! I’m just...I don’t...want to ruin...what we have... -- Yeah, said every sad-ending love story ever.

He flipped her off after making sure no one would notice and jerked his hands up in a waggling motion, sticking his tongue out and shaking his head at her. “Wow - yeah, real mature, dingus.” Robin clapped slowly, applauding his act generously.

“Shut the hell up,” he grumbled while running his hands down his face, clawing at his cheeks dramatically popping his eyes wide.

He turned around as Y/N started talking. “You know - as much as this uniform blows - I do say, the tips aren’t bad.” She held up an extra dollar and gave a shrug.

“That’s more than Steve could ever manage,” Robin piped up while leaning out the glass window. Harrington glared at her and only faked a smile. “Please - I can make way more t-than...than that!” He exclaimed, snatching the dollar from Y/N.

“Hey--- hey! Dickhead! That’s mine! I didn’t just amuse a child for twenty-two minutes for your sorry ass to take it!” She whined while fighting a smile as Steve held it over his head, holding it to the light as if trying to figure out its authenticity.

“Mhmm, yes...yes...the serial number looks right...”

“Steeeeevvveee! S-Stop that!” Y/N giggled while jumping up, inadvertently pushing his back to the counter as he only denied her petition, snapping the bill straight a few times.

“Wait a second....is that picture drawn on?” He uttered while gasping loudly, using one arm to hold Y/N away from him as she collapsed into him, complaining and slapping his bicep mildly.

Of course, it was hard to be mad at him...even after eighteen-years, Y/N still could never find it in her to be truly cross with him (annoyed? Sure...but furious...? Not even once). Steve had this incredible gift where - anything he did was always so...good-natured, innocent, and in his own way absurd...Y/N was never given the chance to be mad.

She’d admit, the whole King Steve thing back in his late Junior year and finishing Senior year was a bit much (little did she know he’d done it to try and gain even an ounce of her attention...being dense himself and not understanding he already had it). 

Y/N hadn’t rolled her eyes, or sighed more in her life than when he was in his uphold the name and keep the reputation title...don’t even mention when Hargrove came to town - oooooh, how Harrington made her blood boil -- and yet, Steve would just flash a smile and then trip over air he hadn’t noticed; falling on her bedroom floor, or in the kitchen, or living room...or anywhere possible for Steve to screw it up with his dorkiness -- and she’d still be admiring the way his brown eyes glistened with youth and blamelessness.

It was inexplainable...how she felt for Harrington - really the most difficult thing to concede. He was charming, he was sweet, he was amusing, he was Steve. And she’d been ever so lucky as to see that in him starting from a young age. Y/N couldn’t remember why it had happened...but it had...and she couldn't explain it, not for her life.

It had been late April, Steve’s birthday just around the corner...he had been turning sixteen and he’d found his proper place in their school’s social monarchy already working his way to the top (from his looks to his at-school devious persona...he fit right in). Y/N had always thought he was a bit of a show-boat, but Steve only discerned it as finally figuring out who he was (which was total BS because looking at him now - an eighteen-year-old dork who didn’t have a clue on what to do with the rest of his life...oh, boy had young Stevie been wrong).

His parents had never really been around, which Y/N blamed for his yearn for attention as a young teen. They loved him, of course, they did! -- They just worked a lot, didn’t have a lot of time...and Steve was...well...a lot...of alone. Y/N didn’t accuse him of wanting to seek the approval of his peers. She always told him if that’s what he wanted; she’d make sure he didn’t sink his own (show-boat) ship.

Tommy H. and Carol had been the ones to suggest a big party. They alleged it was his sweet-sixteen and there’d not be another one. Ugh. Y/N had never approved of the pair - Tommy was always rude and had this animalistic manner to everything he did, and Carol was a two-faced backstabber who gossiped more than the bored, middle-aged mothers’ of Hawkins.

Steve hadn’t been too keen on the idea himself - he’d told Y/N in confidence a few nights prior to the birthday bash...(he’d been laying on her bed, throwing and catching one of the stuffed animals she had resting on her mattress - one he’d gotten her to be exact). Why don’t you just tell them that? Steve had only shrugged, squeezing the plushy with a sigh. It’s not that simple, honey. Telling that to Tommy and Carol...is like telling a brick wall to stop talking... -- Steve, how the hell does that work? -- Exactly! It doesn’t!).

Y/N remembered going to that party and finding Steve being jostled around in the midst of it all. An artificial smile that only she knew to be fake in the first place. It didn’t reach his eyes, and his gaze was ducked to the floor...if Tommy H. and Carol had been real friends - they’d have seen how half-assed everything was on Harrington’s behalf.

His pool had been crowded with strangers and Y/N remembered the kitchen and living room not being much different. She’d managed to snag Harrington from the chaos and when he asked her where she was taking him, Y/N had only told Steve to shut up and buckle up.

They drove only a few minutes in soft silence down the road to her house - where he was shocked to see an already made pillow-fort built from her living room; a pile of their favorite/his favorite movies, more junk food than Steve could possibly consume, a mountain of pillows, and a collection of cozy blankets.

W-What’s all-- she’d cut him off, giving Steve a hug from behind and grinning madly. Happy birthday, dork. He’d only smiled, leaning into Y/N’s touch, hands placed over hers; savoring the moment.

That moment...had been when she realized it. He’d been half-asleep, the clock reading a quarter to four in the morning and they’d blown through every movie, picked through every snack, and cuddled with every blanket. Steve’s hair was a hot mess (the long night had drawn out the stray strands and frizzies, and yet he still pulled off the hot part better than anyone else), his eyes held dark-circles under them and he couldn’t keep his head up - a constant battle between slumping and sitting straight.

Steve had been wearing an old red Henley shirt that he’d left at her house; long-sleeved and washed clean for him in case of an emergency like so. He was as shameless as ever, even at sixteen, and had sported his stripped boxers - preferring them to his jeans (not that she’d actually complain...who would?).

Yes - Steve Harrington - the mess on her couch; his head finally falling, finding its spot on Y/N’s shoulder without him knowing...yes...that Steve Harrington was the one she’d fallen in love with in that exact moment.

It felt like a rollercoaster...building up years of friendship and trust, to finally reach the peak - seeing over the edge and only fearing the worst outcome as they began plummeting to the ground...finally reaching that point of no return where the feeling of shock and emotion could only be accepted that this was her reality...the one she’d be stuck with for eternity...her stomach doing worse than flips...

If only Y/N had known...if only she had known that more than a year before Harrington’s sweet-sixteen; a boy walking in the fall with his best friend had too, fallen in love...maybe things would’ve turned out differently. Just maybe...

Steve had finally given the tip back to the shorter girl, ruffling her hat-covered head while Y/N swatted his hand away. They’d all gone back to their actual jobs...Robin coming to do some scooping with Y/N while Steve worked in the back, every now and then switching it up...someone getting tired of taking orders, scooping, or looking through inventory and paper forums.

It wasn’t until Robin opened her mouth that their peaceful unity was broken. Damn theater kids...

“Here’s a tip for you, Steve,” she began while refilling the waffle-cones. “You learn to not be a total dingus when talking to potential customers, and you’ll rack some extra cash!” Rubbing her fingers together, Robin had invisible greens rain down on him.

Y/N could only stifle her laugh, turning head to nod in acknowledgment of another ice cream order. Steve frowned, rolling his eyes.

“Yeah, some tip,” he grumbled,” I’ll give you a tip, Robin...”

Y/N clicked her tongue, turning to face the pair, Steve hanging out the window as she glanced between them. “Stevie, it’s wrong to be jealous of my talents...I mean...not everyone can be as amazing as me,” she sighed while twirling the tip she’d received before his face (what was that? The fourth one?).

“Spare me, hun - I could do so much better if I tried,” he huffed,” Problem is - I’m just trying to be nice to you, don’t wanna just...steal all your tips, darling.”

A shared staring-contest later...and it was official...a contest.

It was simple - whoever could collect the most tips of the two by the end of their shift today, would be proclaimed the “better asset to the company” (that’s how Robin explained it anyway, even forbearing a small portion of her whiteboard to keep count for them).

Luckily for them, it was an early Saturday afternoon, and the middle of summer in Hawkins, Indiana...everyone was at the Starcourt Mall if they weren’t at the pool (Y/N had heard Billy getting a job there made quite the impact).

“Ahoy! How can I help you?”

“You look like you want something sweet - how about a cone of cherry drizzle, sweetheart?”

“No, no! Take your time, dear!”

“I insist -- it’s on the house!”

“You’re literally...the best customer I’ve had! No joke!”

“I won’t lie to you - that’s my favorite flavor too.”

Sprinkling compliments here, a kind smile there, and a charming air all around - and they had themselves a competition. Somehow - Steve had found his nerve, Y/N suspected it was whatever Robin had said to him in the backroom (she’d said You know what - let me borrow him for a quick sec, mhmm, yeah...hold on, Y/N/N). Had it been a pep-talk? Maybe some solid advice...or a shot of courage. Either way - Harrington had suddenly found his cool...

It irritated Y/N to no ends, as every time she’d get a tip - he’d one-up her and get twice the amount she had. “All thanks to this,” he’d bragged, gesturing to himself while sticking his tongue out, leaning in too-close for her heart to handle. She had only scoffed, raising an eyebrow. “You mean to say, that ridiculous outfit is doing you some good, Harrington?” Earning Y/N a thump on her forehead, and Steve a slap to his chest.

Steve was in the lead right now; having received nineteen dollars...alone...in tips. Y/N was only a few dollars behind and she knew that if she really upped the ante, she could push ahead - or at least tie the snarky boy.

“You're up, Y/N,” Robin announced while spinning the black dry-erase between her fingers. They’d taken turns - after choosing a number between one-through-ten...Steve had been closer, and he’d gotten the chance to go first (but that had been rounds ago..).

She shot a look at Steve who only smiled and stretched a limb to boop her nose. She rolled her eyes, pretending to bite at him, the air taking a rather severe snap. Turning to face the customer; she missed Harrington’s flush and slack-jaw (also missing how Robin hit his face to get Steve out of the trance).

“Ahoy, cutie! Would you like to set sail on the ocean of flavor with me? I’ll be your Captain - I’m Y/N...nice to serve you today.” She offered a sweet simper and held her hands behind her back as she bounced on her heels.

The boy before her, had dark hair (hair that had Harrington judged silently...it wasn’t bad...he was just criticizing how the guy managed to get volume like that - did he use Faberge too?!), and green eyes. He was rather tall, taller than Steve to give an image - Y/N suspected six-foot-two...

Broad shoulders and a kind smile to his sharp features. Y/N had to admit - this guy was...not bad looking. Easy on the eyes, at least he gave off that much. He had a blue button-up on and jeans to match, a blue and white windbreaker complimenting him nicely.

He returned her smile and Y/N felt a slight blush find her cheeks.

“Nice to have you serve me too,” he chuckled,” I’m Shawn, though cutie works just as well.” He offered Y/N his hand to shake and she took it, a short giggle bubbling from her lips as he addressed her as Captain.

“Uh-oh,” Robin teased while watching the scene unfold before her. Harrington had absently begun to grip the counter to the point of his knuckles bleeding white. “Is that...jealousy I smell?” Buckley whisper-shouted while her hands came up to pinch her face together - her lips a perfect ‘o’.

Steve ignored her, chewing on his lip as he listened to the flirting this...Shawn...character was displaying. He wasn’t sure why it bothered him so much - maybe because Y/N should only be laughing with him like that, smiling at him like that, and talking to him like that...this dude didn’t even know her last name...(and God, Shawn made it sound like he wanted Y/N to take his last name...).

“The special today is chocolate blast, so...if you’re interested in that - I can assure it’ll be worth your money.” Y/N explained while rotating her scooper, weaving it between her fingers. Shawn gave a nod, and then said,” You know what - surprise me, sweetheart.”

Sweetheart. “Sweetheart?” Steve mumbled while being quietly laughed at by Robin. Steve’s eyes furrowed and he restrained himself from waltzing over and doing something not so company-policy employed.

“Well in that case,” Y/N hummed while glancing at the array of flavors,” I’ll give you a house favorite!” Harrington was one-hundred percent aware of how enchanting Y/N was without even trying...a dangerous skill indeed. Though he wasn’t the only one aware...

He watched the y/c/e eyed girl walk over to their glass-case freezer, leaning down to scoop a large clump of chocolate peanut butter truffle...he couldn’t tell if he were honored to have his favorite ice cream being the choice of surprise (because on one hand, Y/N chose it precisely for Harrington’s reaction, and then, on the other hand, that Steve was sure Y/N didn’t even know existed - she was giving his favorite flavor away to some random dude...).

“Looks delicious,” Shawn complimented, and Steve swears there wasn’t any reason for their hands to touch through the exchange of cone to hand.

Y/N could only nod, turning to the register as she began ringing him up. “Mhm! It’s really good!--,” “Is it your favorite?” the boy interrupted smoothly, leaning his elbows on the counter.

“Haha, no - it’s actually his,” Y/N told while scratching at her neck. The reference to Steve had him hold three fingers up in a weak attempt at hello.

Shawn eyed Harrington, sizing him up before looking back to Y/N (who did this Shawn-guy think he was?!). “Interesting choice.”

As expected, he left (an unnecessarily) large tip...not only pushing Y/N in the lead, but also pushing Steve over the edge.

The opposing man decided to stick around, even after his cone was finished...he sat at a nearby table and was bothering them as they worked (that’s how Steve perceived it anyway...).

Y/N kept getting sidetracked; thus, her score lagging behind Harrington after a few more shoppers... It looked as if she cared on some level - but Steve wasn’t an idiot and he could see how this (not him) alright-looking guy had her attention for the time being.

Normally, he’d ben enthralled to see he’d be winning their contest. He and Y/N had always had these playful kinds of competitions growing up, this wasn’t any different...except it was...because insert this random flirty dude and bam....it throws off everything.

Steve didn’t like the way Shawn would make a specific comment and Y/N would giggle, or shake her head in amusement. Steve didn’t like how Shawn would watch her as she worked - as if trying to remember a hidden pattern. Steve hated how Y/N seemed...okay with this...it drove him absolutely mad.

After roughly fifteen more minutes of Harrington trying to contain his little green gremlin - he gave up. He could only be so nice for so long...after all, he was only just a man.

“Screw this,” he murmured while throwing his hat to the side. Pushing his seat out and walking to the side door (he and Robin had been sitting in the back room while they waited, taking the time to fill a few inventory forums).

Robin raised a brow, peeping out the window to see what exactly had his tailfeather’s ruffled like a sorrowful peacock. She smirked, sputtering her reply.

“Pffft -- y-you really gonna do this? Like...like...first of all, your hat - Harrington, that’s against company policy.” Steve shrugged her off, pressing his back to the door and shoving it the rest of the way open.

“I don’t care,” he hissed. Robin only pursed her lips, arms crossing over her chest. “Mhm...well, customer satisfaction is also part of our company policy...and as far as I can tell,” she urged while her eyes flickered back to the boy talking with Y/N,” He’s looking pretty satisfied.”

Steve grit his teeth, offering a scoff before fulling exiting the room. “Screw company policy.”

“And so I sai--,” “Ahoy! -- I’m Steve,” he greeted loudly, butting into Shawn’s story. Y/N was behind the countertop, replacing an empty tub of plain chocolate with a fresh one when Steve swooped in to do it for her.

He plopped the bucket down and then leaned his arms on the counter, eyes digging into the boy sat at the table-for-two closest to the register. Steve rubbed his cheek and cleared his throat. “Steve - Steve Harrington. Nice to meet you.”

“Uh, Shawn, Shawn Gilson,” the stranger replied,” Nice to meet you t--,”

“So, uh, I dunno if you’re aware, Shawn, but - Scoops’ has this, uh,” Steve interjected while snapping his fingers, shaking his head,” This...thing - where customers who spend...too long here, are considered to be loitering.” He shrugged.

“I don’t mean to be that guy - but you should probably go,” Steve continued with a soft click of his tongue, giving a soft suck of breath as an oh, darn.

Before Shawn could answer properly, Steve was hopped over the countertop, helping the taller boy to stand up. “Yeah, I know -- it’s such a bummer,” he spoke over Shawn’s slow and mumbled objections.

“But - it is company policy...and you know--,” Harington continued, giving a final shove to the man; accidentally putting all his body weight into it,”--I’d hate to break company policy.” He winked, waving the guy off,” I uh, took an oath or something.” Hands on his hips, Steve smiled charmingly as he saw Shawn off; spinning on his heels once he believed the rival brunette a fair distance away.

“Well, that’s one way to take care of it,” Robin commented while smirking, her chin rested in the palm of her hand as she stood next to Y/N.

Y/N, throughout the entire interaction - had been astounded, confused, and then slightly flushed as Robin’s commentary had enlightened her to a few things.

“I know, right? I didn’t t-think that guy would ever leave,” Harrington scoffed, while trying to play it off, running a hand through his hair (a nervous tick Steve had that Y/N always found to be adorable).

Robin rolled her eyes, dropping her head to the countertop. Y/N giggled and walked over to Steve, meeting him halfway - now all three employees standing behind the showcases.

“Why’d you do that, Harrington? He was nice,” she noted while crossing her arms, eyeing him suspiciously. Hoping he couldn’t hear the accelerated pounding of her heart or see the shake in her legs as he placed a hand on the surface of the worktop - awfully close to Y/N from what she could judge.

Steve’s jaw was slack as his tongue skimmed his teeth. He shook his head, eyes flickering from the girl before him, to the ground. “Him? - No, no - he was testing it with me, I don’t know about...nice.” In other words, I didn’t like him and where he stands isn’t clear, but my opinion isn’t positive.

“But he was sweet! -- And I’ll agree, kinda cute.” Thus, Steve’s mind blanked completely. Robin was trying to keep herself together, mumbling a low justification of needing to sign something in the back, and leaving them to their own devices.

“What? Are you crazy? - He was staring at your ass every second you weren’t looking,” he droned,” That’s not the kind of guy you want hanging around, hun,” Steve stated, his expression finding one of bitterness and annoyance.

Y/N couldn’t get another word in, Steve going on a heated rant about how unfit this flirty visitor was for her. He’d been winded afterward, having used a wild amount of hand movements and lecturing quite fast - all in one breath. He finished with slapping his palm to the granite counter, driving back his hair as Steve recollected what he’d just said and what had happened...Shit.

“Tell me, Harrington,” Y/N started while looking up to her tall best friend. “What kind of guy would you want hanging around me?”

He choked on his own spit and took a few heartbeats to figure out what to say without breaking every piece of friendship and relation they already had.

“Well,” Steve sighed, wiping his hands on his ugly uniform, they were clammy and his fingers trembled. “You...you deserve someone who...who knows you. I dunno.”

Steve licked his lips and closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, and deciding to just...say it...after five...heartwrenching years of waiting; craving; pining...This probably wasn’t the first time he’d acted so irrationally...just the first time there’d been a girl named Robin to expose him...

“You deserve a guy who won’t give up on you...even after years of doubting himself. Someone who will be there when you’re upset, and never leave when you’re at your lowest point, Y/N/N. A guy who wants nothing more than to make you smile, because...Gosh, do you have such a pretty smile...He’d be satisfied with just seeing you happy - you know? - even if that means he’s not.”

“Someone who loves that...that you always air-dry your hair because it’s easier than doing anything else, even if that guy insists on proper hair care. Darling...you...you deserve someone who cherishes you in every way possible, savoring the way your laugh sounds after you recite some dumb joke, or die a little when you kick ass in the arcade.”

“Someone who knows that you hate reading books with bent pages, and when you walk, you sometimes skip every other step - almost like a hop. Y/N...you deserve someone who has never wanted anything from you...just...just for you to look at them like they look at you.” He lamented.

“And - I know...it’s stupid - but...you deserve someone who won’t just flirt with you because he can. Someone who’ll flirt with you even when you’re with him because he knows you think those stupid pickup-lines and cheesy jokes are endearing.” His voice cracked and he couldn’t help but bite his lip apprehensively. 

“I...I...I just think...maybe you’re just...looking in the wrong places,” Steve mumbled. Head hanging low. What the hell was he saying? What the actual hell was he thinking?

“Because...I...I don’t wanna sound like a narcissist...but...I always kinda thought...the kind of guy you’d...you’d end up with--,” he paused his eyes searching Y/N’s for the strength to finish.

“Was me.” He breathed.

Steve exhaled shortly, and restated,” I always thought you’d end up with me, Y/N.”

She’d been quiet throughout his speech. Earlier, while Harrington had been escorting Shawn out...Robin had spoken to her.

You know, he’s in love with you, right? -- W-What? -- Y/N...don’t be serious right now. -- Robin - I-I don’t know what you’re talking about! -- You...you seriously have no idea? Like, seriously, Y/N? -- Robin, I-I don’t know.

All Steve does, is talk about you. Think about you. Want to be with you...he told me he’s loved you since he was fifteen, Y/L/N! -- Why...didn’t he say anything? 

Fear is a very powerful sentiment, Y/N. He was scared you wouldn’t return his feelings. -- He...he never acted differently towards me though.

Are you crazy? He practically knows you better than you know you. He didn’t need to act differently because he was just always himself around you. And you see that? See him over there? That, that my friend, is jealousy. Probably one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs there is.

The dirty-blonde had then asked her a question that Y/N had tried to overcome, bury deep within her...to forget about and hopefully never think of again...it...it never had worked.

Do you love him too?

Y/N hadn’t been given the opportunity to clarify, Steve strutting back to them in that oddly proud and embarrassed manner of his. Y/N teased him like she would any other time he acted like a dork...but, asking such a simple question to try and prove Robin right or wrong - had turned the conversation sober faster than her head could keep up with.

Her lungs hurt; had she been breathing throughout the minutes passing? She couldn’t remember - dumbly taking a few gasps, her eyes wide and her hands shaking pulled to her chest. Y/N bit her lip and when she saw the anxiety and panic in Steve’s eyes...she melted.

“I-It took you long enough, Harrington,” she stammered, throwing her arms around his neck, her hat falling off in the process. He tensed at her touch until reality hit and he felt all the air escape his chest - finally sinking into her like he needed her to stand.

Y/N was basking in the moment; relishing the scent of his cologne (the classic Calvin Klein Eternity), the smell of a light floral blended with a woody amber clashed with Steve’s natural musk perfectly. It was comforting. It was absolutely intoxicating.

She hid her face in his shoulder while she felt the tickle of his breath in the crook of her neck. “I...I kinda always thought I’d end up with you too.”

Steve was silent at that, but slowly, slowly; he erupted into laughter. Laughing at himself for having been so scared all these years! After all that damn time...she’d felt the same way! Waiting probably just as long as him! Patiently waiting for Steve’s cowardly self to man up! After all this damn time...she had loved him too.

Robin was slow clapping, using a fake, posh accent to congratulate them. “Bravo, bravo! Steve finally grew a pair!” Y/N was laughing, the vibration of Harrington’s own excitement leaking into her reaction.

The freckled girl gasped, slapping her hands on the counter as she leaned out the shutters. “Dingus - you know what this means...right?” Steve’s face was blank, his arms tightly wound around Y/N still as he tried to figure out what Robin was referring to.

When it hit him, he gave this strangled noise of accomplishment. Harrington picked Y/N off her feet and swung her around a bit, clumsily knocking a few paper bowls to the ground (not that it wasn’t unusual for him to do something so senseless).

“I-It means I rock!” He gushed while placing Y/N to sit on the countertop, jumping around like a child. Just another reason Y/N had fallen in love with him...he never seemed to grow up fully, but she was okay with that...things never got old with Steve.

Robin nodded somberly, pulling the notorious chart back out and drawing on that one, single line that Harrington had been anticipating...

“Yes!” He shouted, not caring eyes from outside the shop were staring. “I finally did it! Fuck! In your face, Robin!” He leered with a bright smile. Buckley rolled her eyes.

“Mhm, don’t get ahead of yourself, dingus. You haven’t actually asked her out... I can take this victory away, you know?” Robin threatened while hovering a hand over the lone tally-mark.

The brunette whipped around, his hair tousled from his jumpiness. He stepped to Y/N quickly who had only been laughing at his interaction with Robin; taking her by surprise when he stood between her legs, hand cupping her face. Steve’s free arm snaked around her waist. His smile looked like it hurt, but Steve didn’t seem to mind.

“So...,” he started, enjoy the display of pink on Y/N’s beautiful features. His mind wandered back to their earlier competition and he bit his lip, trying to contain the satisfaction. “I won our little challenge...,” he drawled while pressing his forehead to hers.

Y/N sighed, rolling her eyes. She pinched his cheek and poked his side. “After all...that...you ruin the moment with this? Cocky much?”

“No, no, let me finish,” he chuckled, his brown eyes glistening with affection and adoration. “I have about twenty-five extra dollars to spend,” he explained,” Whaddya say to me treating you to a date? I mean...how else can I cheer you up? You must be so sad about losing to the likes of me.”

Y/N grinned. “Oh, but of course -- I don’t think I’ll ever recover from a loss like that...sighhhh...the only cure is...dinner and a movie?” Y/N expressed dramatically leaning back from his chest, a hand pulled to her forehead.

Steve pouted. “Wait...you just asked me on the date...I...I was supposed to ask you!” Y/N shrugged,” Does it matter?”

“Yes! It does matter! You can’t take this from me!” He cried while shaking his head and jutting his lip out.

Y/N snorted, shaking her head at how utterly adorable Steve was. “Fine...I take it back. No dinner and a movie.”

Silence followed.

“This was supposed to be more romantic, you know, but you fucking ruined it,” Harrington accused while laughing, his serious expression breaking.

Y/N scoffed, striking his chest. “Listen, Sailor Boy - if you weren’t such a moron yo--,” and then he kissed her.

It was soft, it as sweet, it was better than anything she’d ever imagined. Her arms circled his neck and his hand pulled Y/N’s face to his as close as humanly possible--

“We run a business, guys,” Robin reminded while gagging and flicking Steve in the forehead as she walked around the counter, trying to awkwardly apologize to a couple that neither Y/N nor Harrington noticed.

Steve helped her slide off the countertop, mumbling a hello to the customers. He looked to Y/N and smothered his amusement at her red face.

While Robin was serving the pair, Steve tried to be useful and helped Y/N fix their topping containers. “So,” he started, clearing his throat and closing the lid of rainbow sprinkles. “Let me try again.”

Y/N hummed, egging him on.

“Y/N - the girl of my dreams, the person I’ve had a crush on for five terrible years...Will you go on a date with me?” Steve asked, turning to face her with a soft smile. “Please?” He added quickly.

Y/N popped a chocolate-chip in her mouth, a small smirk playing on her pink lips. “I would love to go on a date with you, Steve. After all, you did say please.”

Steve didn’t regret breaking company policy...no...not at all.

--

a/n footer: I thought this request was sooo cute! <3 I hope it’s to your liking @billyhargrovescigarette :) I loveddddd writing it!

Tagged List: @novaddictx @mairalynn416 @wefracturedmotivation @truthdaze @xxcxrolinexx @savingprivatecass @emmalbg @timeladygallifrey @the-first-breath-of-autumn-air @billyhargrovescigarette @krystalane @truthdaze @neverlandsoundsgood @friendlyneighbourhoodmercenary @imarockstar145 @foryoubarnes @winchestergirl907 @anniethepanda @gwenebear @lavenderluvs @werdenkt @just-ladyme @un-deroos

#stranger things #stranger things imagine #steve harrington #steve harrington imagine #steve harrington x reader #steve harrington fluff #joe keery

[writeroutoftime]

the scoops troop

pairing: tony stark x reader

summary: it’s Halloween and you want to do a group costume, but Tony isn’t onboard with the idea (”let’s do a couples costume)

warnings: none 

words: 1558

a/n: this is for @sourpatchkidsandacokecan‘s challenge and I’m so excited for this story! this might be really cheesy or dumb, but i think it turned out well. also as I started to write this, I just got so into it and kinda forgot the prompt line and had to go back and add it later lol. anyway, please enjoy and have fabulous day! 

oOoOo 

“No, I am not wearing that out in public.” Tony said, barely looking up from his workbench as he fiddled with the helmet of his Iron Man suit. 

Sighs left both yours and Peter’s lips at Tony’s response. Why was Tony so against a Halloween costume when he paraded around in a metal suit almost everyday. Not to mention, you and Peter had the perfect idea for a group costume this year ever since you had binged watched the third season of Stranger Things together.

“But, Mr. Stark, the group won’t be complete without you dressing up!” Peter argued, his eyes pleading for Tony to reconsider. 

“Peter’s right, Tony.” you responded. “Come on, let’s do this couples costume! Who would Robin and Dustin be without Steve Harrington? He’s like the hero of their group.” you explained, hoping your description would appeal to Tony’s ego and he would agree. 

Now Tony was the one to sigh as he set down the helmet. “Babe, I’m just not a costume person, and you know this.” he stated. 

This was something you knew, but you had hoped this year would be different. Although Tony didn’t often admit it, you knew he had a soft spot for Peter, and he normally would do anything to make you, his wife, happy. Apparently, the line was drawn at costumes. 

“For God’s sake, Tony. You are the one hosting a costume party, yet you refuse to take part in it. Please tell me, genius, where the logic in that statement lies.” you said, your anger slowly rising. 

Instead of answering, Tony merely shrugged and picked up another part of his Iron Man suit that needed repaired. “You know what, that’s fine. I hope you enjoy your Halloween, alone!” you shouted in frustration and stormed out of his lab. 

There was an awkward silence that settled between Tony and Peter after you left as Peter looked between his mentor and the door where you had left in a hurt and angered state. “Maybe you should reconsider. I mean it’s going to be a lot of fun, plus it would make Mrs. Stark really happy.” he spoke up, hesitantly. 

“And maybe I should reconsider the new upgrades I’m adding to your suit.” Tony spat back in misdirected frustration. 

Peter’s eyes widen in fear and he started to stutter. “I-uh-I’m just gonna do, uh, homework!” he spoke rather quickly and ran straight out of the lab, not wishing to test how serious Tony was. 

Once he was completely alone, Tony tried to keep working on his suit, but after the third time he nearly stabbed his hand with the screwdriver, he threw the suit away from him with a loud, dramatic sigh. “(y/n) will get over it.” he tried to convince himself. “Though, maybe - no I’m not dressing up!” he said to himself with conviction, and turned to another project that would keep him in the lab all night. 

oOoOo 

A few days passed and things weren’t necessarily tense between you and Tony, but there was a still cloud that loomed over the both of you. It was now the day of the Halloween party, and both you and Tony had been busy rushing around all day, preparing for the scores of people who would be entering your home in a few short hours. While Tony dealt with the entertainment and drinks, you made sure there would be enough food to go around, that all decorations were in place, and talked to security about the evening. 

After everything on your end was settled, you headed back to your room to start getting into costume. Even though Tony didn't want to be apart of your group costume, you and Peter had decided to still go ahead with the costumes because it was something that was special to the both of you and you knew it would be a lot of fun. 

Once your hair and makeup were complete, you went to your closet to grab your costume, but your heart sank for a moment as you looked at the matching ‘Steve Harrington’ costume that hung next to your own. However, you pushed that feeling aside because you would still have a good night. With a quick glance at the clock, you rushed to get into costume because the party was scheduled to start in fifteen minutes, and you wanted to be downstairs before any guests showed up. 

The baggy, navy blue shorts and navy and white striped shirt with the matching navy vest looked cheesy as hell, but you smiled as you pulled on the white, knee high socks, and added your ‘Robin’ nametag and ice cream scooper to tie the whole costume together. 

Costume complete, you made your way to the main room where the party was about to be held, and said your hellos to the Avengers who you had invited to come before everyone else. A smile crossed your face as you took in all their costumes, but cocked your head to the side when you realized Tony wasn’t in the room. Normally, he would already be in the room, a drink or snack in hand. 

“Have you seen Tony?” you whispered to Wanda, who only shook her head in response with a small, sad smile on her face. 

Before you could respond, you heard a shout from behind you. “What’s up, Robin? Ready to kick some Demogorgon ass?” Peter asked with a bright smile. 

There wasn’t anything you could do but laugh in response as you took in his costume, and noted how accurate it was. An orange, graphic t-shirt, with cargo shorts, and a ‘Camp Knowhere” hat on top of his hair that he even tried to make curlier than normal. Your heart swelled with pride and love at how excited Peter was, and you pulled him into a hug and asked Natasha if she could take your picture. 

Not long after that, the party officially started and people began to pour through the doors. From there, you put on your best hostess face and started to make your rounds, saying hello and making small talk with everyone you recognized. Throughout most of the night, Peter stuck to your side and nearly everyone you spoke to complemented your costume. Some even went as far to say that the only thing you were missing was a Steve. 

Each time someone made that comment, you couldn’t help but scan the room to see if Tony had shown up yet. The party had been in full swing for over an hour, and no one had caught sight of the host for the evening. It wasn’t until the music stopped and you heard the microphone switch on, that you heard Tony’s voice for the first time that night. 

“How’s everybody doing tonight? Enjoying yourself?” he asked the crowd from offstage, to which there was a loud cheer. “Good, good.” he replied. “Now, I know I’ve been absent from this party so far, but, you know me, I had to spend hours getting ready.” he joked. “But I’m here and ready to show all of you people my costume for the evening.” 

At his words, you furrowed your brows together in confusion, and turned to Peter to see that he had a similar expression. It was then that Tony stepped out on stage and the crowed went wild while your jaw dropped in surprise. 

There stood Tony Stark with baggy, navy blue shorts, a navy blue top with a red ascot tied around the collar. He was even wearing white, knee high socks, similar to your own, and to top it all off, he had a ‘Steve’ name tag on his chest, and a white, sailor’s hat that read ‘Scoops Ahoy’ across it. 

Quickly, you pushed your way through the crowd as Tony made eye contact with you, his ever present smirk on his face. Tony returned the mic to the DJ, who turned the music back on, and made his way down the steps of the platform and went to meet you halfway. Once in armlength of him, you threw your arms around Tony and hugged him with a tight grip, and despite your best efforts, your eyes glossed up. 

“You wore the costume.” you whispered, not trusting your voice. 

He pulled away and placed a chaste kiss against your lips. “I would do anything to make you and the kid happy.” Tony admitted. “I’m sorry I was a dingus.” 

His choice of words made you laugh and you leaned in for another kiss, which only lasted a few seconds before you were interrupted by another voice. 

“Gross!” you and Tony heard before you turned to see Peter standing there with a grin on his face. “This seems pretty out of character for Robin.” he joked as he referred to the kiss you and Tony had shared. “Mr. Stark, you look great!” he said with such happiness that you knew Tony couldn’t resist. 

“Thanks, kid. You don’t look shabby yourself.” he said as Peter started to geek out about the show and all the science behind it. 

As the two of them spoke, you watched on with a content smile, and knew that this was going to go down in the books as the best Halloween yet. In fact, you made sure to have Steve take yours, Tony’s, and Peter’s picture in character, which you would later frame with ‘Scoops Troop’ written above. 

#ldatfwc #tony stark x reader #tony stark imagine #marvel imagine #marvel x reader

[natsuxlucyfanfiction]

The Photo Album

It’s been a while lol, yeah I’m pretty bad at consistently posting I gotta work on that. Please leave a comment, feedback of any sort is much appreciated. This was requested by @notacelestialwizard and I hope I didn’t disappoint!

****************

The Christmas tree in the corner of Lucy’s house sat gloomily and unlit. An ornament fell off and shattered after she threw a book at it, and she’s yet to clean up the mess. She sat on the floor, staring at the opened book now across the room. In a time of joy on Christmas Eve, Lucy could only feel sorrow.

It was a photo album. Less than a half of it was full. Pictures of her, her mother, and her father. Every year they took them together: by the tree, in the snow, baking cookies, etc. There were 90 pages total, 5 for every year of Lucy’s life until she turned 18. Only the first 30 were filled out.

Lucy got up and picked up the album. It was opened to a page with her as a baby. She read the writing by the side:

“Lucy’s first Christmas!”

Her mom had the prettiest handwriting. Elegant yet readable. Flipping a few pages later, she saw a picture of her tearing a gift apart. She remembered getting a papercut from unwrapping it so aggressively. Lucy perused the album until she reached the unfilled pages. It shouldn’t be unfilled, she thought, drowning in her own self pity.

“It’s not fair. It’s not fair!” She screamed to herself, all alone in her apartment. There was no one there to empathize. No comforting words of affirmation. That’s just the way she wanted it.

Barely anyone in Fairy Tail has had a picture perfect past. Practically none of them know their family or parents except for a handful. Everyone had a sob story; she wasn’t anyone special, so she kept most of these emotions to herself. There was no use burdening others with her grief when they dealt with so much of their own.

Woooosh. She heard the wind blow, sounding like waves of the ocean. The book was wrapped tightly between her arms as she lied down on the rug. Any desire to get up and enjoy the holiday was thrown out the window and blown away by the strong winds. Woooooosh. There it was again, leaving a soothing sound that lulled Lucy into a trance. Her eyes began to droop, and by the time more wind passed by, she was fast asleep.

******************

She woke up to the discomfort of her wrist being pricked with the shattered glass. Blood slowly dripped out of the tiny cut. Lucy had no will to stop it. Letting it bleed out was no big deal, especially since it was such a tiny cut. But what if it was bigger? If her arm was torn open, would she have found the will then? How long will she let herself continue in this lousy, pitiful state?

No longer, Lucy thought to herself, finally getting up and dusting herself off.

“You don’t have any control over me,” she sneered, talking to the photo album. After picking it up and staining it with her blood, she set the fireplace ablaze. She felt the book mocking her, displaying a picture of her parents laughing together. “This is the last year you’re toying with my emotions!” In her emotional state, she didn’t fully comprehend the consequences of her decision to throw the album into the fire.

Pages and pictures quickly crinkled and turned to ash. The binding was more successful in its struggle for life, but still began to burn alongside the pictures. It wasn’t until the book was almost completely destroyed that everything finished processing in Lucy’s mind.

“No! No, no, no, no, no,” she whispered while sprinting to the fire. Disregarding the fire, she stuck her hands straight in and clawed for any remaining pieces of album. “Come on, come on, please,” she begged and weeped, hoping to find something salvageable. She felt a piece of the binding and retracted her hands, which were in the fire for no longer than 10 seconds. Nevertheless, they were blistered and charred. They were swelling, yet she couldn’t feel a thing. She knew she should probably go to Porlyusica or at least to the guild, but all she could think about at the moment was seeing Natsu.

She sprinted out after barely managing to get the door open. The use brought back some feeling into the hand, since she could feel amounts of pain slowly seep into it. The roads were coated with ice and framed by snow. Snow fell as the wind blew, taking little snowflakes along with it. The sun was, for the most part, blocked out by clouds. On a normal day, Lucy would’ve stopped to take it all in.

After about 30 minutes of running, she finally arrived at Natsu’s place. Her adrenaline wore off by then. She was freezing yet her hands burned, causing her a lot of pain. Her tears flowed and her need to see him grew.

Instead of knocking, she decided to just bump into his door. His advanced hearing should be able to pick it up easily. The door flung open and a grinning Natsu greeted her.

“Hey, Luce! Merry-holy crap! Lucy, what the heck happened?!” His attention was quickly drawn to her hands, which have swollen to at least double its original size. Lucy was surprised that she couldn’t respond. Maybe it was shock, maybe it was pain. Either way, she remained mute.

“I’m getting you to Porlyusica.”

*******************

Did I pass out along the way?

She woke up on an unfamiliar bed. By her was Porlyusica, speaking with Natsu in her typical grouchy tone. Inspecting her hands, she saw that the swelling went down. The pain left, and in its place some weird goo was left on her hands.

“Glad to see you’re up,” Porlyusica commented drily. Whether she was sarcastic or not was beyond Lucy.

“Natsu?”

“You passed out almost immediately after I opened the door for you,” he began to explain. Natsu moved to be by Lucy’s side. “How you feeling?” He asked softly.

It wasn’t very out of character for Natsu to be gentle. She’s seen this side of him before. There’s something about it that just calms her down. “Good. The pain is gone. Is it ‘cause of this goo?”

“It’s not goo, it’s sap,” Porlyusica responded. “It’ll temporarily take away the pain while the magic does its thing and heals you. Trust me, the magic feels more painful than the burns themselves.”

“They were some nasty burns, and that’s coming from a fire dragon slayer,” Natsu chuckled. “What did you freaking do? Had me scared for many secs.”

“Many? Not just one sec? I’m touched.”

“Maybe like 4 secs, don’t get ahead of yourself, Luce.”

“That’s it, I’m kicking you two out. You’ve ruined enough of my Christmas Eve.” Porlyusica handed Natsu a jar of sap. “Apply this directly on the hands when you get home and every four hours after that.”

“Why would I need that?”

“It’s not for you, dingus.”

“Oh. Right.” Natsu grabbed the jar and the two head out, but not before Natsu could say:

“For the record, Porlyusica, I will miss you for at least 10 secs.”

“Out!”

*******************

On the way back to Lucy’s house, she explained the entire situation to him, not leaving any parts out. It felt good to finally get her feelings off her chest. Throughout the entire story, Natsu stayed quiet, with the occasional ‘hm’ or nod. When she finished, he remained pensive. The silence between them felt awkward for Lucy.

The door was still open from when she ran out earlier. Her house was chilly. Mere flames were left in place of the fire that scorched Lucy. Natsu extinguished them. He plopped himself on the couch and began to open the jar.

“Come here.” Lucy sat down next to him and gave him her hands. Gently, he applied the sap. Silence fell upon them again. Lucy had no clue how to break the silence. She felt as if it was his turn to talk, and the more he didn’t, the more anxious she became.

He stopped applying the sap and went to get her a blanket. Finally, after wrapping the blanket around her, he spoke.

“We could make our own album,” he offered, but it sounded more like a question. “No empty pages, I promise you.”

“Let’s do it, starting now. There’s a camera in the drawer beside my bed,” she told him. He left for a minute and reappeared with the camera. Wrapping his arm around Lucy, he smiled brightly and snapped a picture, capturing Lucy’s joy as well as his own. The two talked and talked, until, once again, Lucy fell asleep due to her exhausting day. Natsu stayed by her side to keep her warm. He smiled when the clock striked 12 and kissed her forehead.

“Merry Christmas, Lucy.”

#naluzine #nalu angst week #naluweek #nalu day #nalufever #nalufluffweek #nalu headcanons #ft nalu #nalu fanfiction #fairy tail nalu #nalu #nalu fluff #christmas #natsu x lucy #natsu dragneel #lucy heartifilla #lucy heartfilia #lucy heartphilia #fairy tail #anime #manga #angst #christmas eve