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hell yeah, i'll be right there.
oh please, you're so much more than that, and you know it.
[ Eddie doesn't waste much time after he presses send. It's easy enough to gather all of his materials together in anticipation for helping with Steve's little predicament and hop into his van towards the nicer part of town.
It's still a little surreal that he's even in the same orbit as Steve Harrington considering he's still repeating senior year and Steve is. Well. Steve.
But even still, he's parking near the driveway - never in the driveway, just in case - and walking up to Steve's door and giving it a loud knock. He feels so out of place standing here in a Judas Priest t-shirt and his signature leather jacket (no vest, because Steve still has the damn thing), but the street itself is so quiet that he doubts anyone has even noticed his intrusion. ]
C'mon, c'mon, c'mon answer the fucking door.
[ That doesn't stop him from being a little nervous, though. Even though his name was cleared, that's not going to stop the most religious fanatics in town from still being convinced he's a serial killer and devil worshipper. ]
oh please, you're so much more than that, and you know it.
[ Eddie doesn't waste much time after he presses send. It's easy enough to gather all of his materials together in anticipation for helping with Steve's little predicament and hop into his van towards the nicer part of town.
It's still a little surreal that he's even in the same orbit as Steve Harrington considering he's still repeating senior year and Steve is. Well. Steve.
But even still, he's parking near the driveway - never in the driveway, just in case - and walking up to Steve's door and giving it a loud knock. He feels so out of place standing here in a Judas Priest t-shirt and his signature leather jacket (no vest, because Steve still has the damn thing), but the street itself is so quiet that he doubts anyone has even noticed his intrusion. ]
C'mon, c'mon, c'mon answer the fucking door.
[ That doesn't stop him from being a little nervous, though. Even though his name was cleared, that's not going to stop the most religious fanatics in town from still being convinced he's a serial killer and devil worshipper. ]
( steve could reply to that but he doesn't, instead smiles at his phone and sets it aside. in truth, he hadn't expected that eddie would come over.
it's not like he has to tidy up for him to come over, that's handled, but steve does push himself off the couch where he's been sprawled out to check the fridge. he does have beer, which is good, because he kind of wants to hang out for more than just the time it takes for eddie to turn his neck into something more presentable.
somehow, eddie's way faster than he thought he'd be. or steve zoned out, he's been doing that a lot lately. he jolts at the knock and rushes over, opens the door with a grin. ) Hey! That was fast.
( and he sounds excited about it as he steps aside, letting eddie slip inside. unlike eddie, he's in a pair of sweats and an old school t-shirt since he'd been lounging around. the shirt's collar is loose, showing off the state of his neck.
his hair's still done, though, so he's not giving up all his secrets right now. ) Come on in. ( he nods inside, waits until eddie's in the house before closing the door behind him. )
it's not like he has to tidy up for him to come over, that's handled, but steve does push himself off the couch where he's been sprawled out to check the fridge. he does have beer, which is good, because he kind of wants to hang out for more than just the time it takes for eddie to turn his neck into something more presentable.
somehow, eddie's way faster than he thought he'd be. or steve zoned out, he's been doing that a lot lately. he jolts at the knock and rushes over, opens the door with a grin. ) Hey! That was fast.
( and he sounds excited about it as he steps aside, letting eddie slip inside. unlike eddie, he's in a pair of sweats and an old school t-shirt since he'd been lounging around. the shirt's collar is loose, showing off the state of his neck.
his hair's still done, though, so he's not giving up all his secrets right now. ) Come on in. ( he nods inside, waits until eddie's in the house before closing the door behind him. )
[ There is something incredibly hilarious about being let inside Steve Harrington's house in order to try and cover up the remnants of what he can only assume was a wild night. He whistles when he gets a good look at it, and shakes his head, letting out a laugh. ]
Shit, she really did a number on you. [ It's a bit weird seeing Steve like this, so casual, considering he's so used to being in monster fight mode, but it's nice. There might be a sting of envy (and whether that's because someone else is getting some and not him, or whether that someone is Steve in particular he refuses to indulge lest it give him a headache) but mostly he's just happy. He's happy that they're even in this position where the worst thing they have to worry about is how to cover up smattering of love bites. ]
So this is the famous casa del Harrington. [ He takes his time walking inside, flashing a grin at Steve, his bag of supplies clinking slightly as he walks further inside. ] Where'd you want to do this?
Shit, she really did a number on you. [ It's a bit weird seeing Steve like this, so casual, considering he's so used to being in monster fight mode, but it's nice. There might be a sting of envy (and whether that's because someone else is getting some and not him, or whether that someone is Steve in particular he refuses to indulge lest it give him a headache) but mostly he's just happy. He's happy that they're even in this position where the worst thing they have to worry about is how to cover up smattering of love bites. ]
So this is the famous casa del Harrington. [ He takes his time walking inside, flashing a grin at Steve, his bag of supplies clinking slightly as he walks further inside. ] Where'd you want to do this?
( normally, normally steve wouldn't really care if someone heard the stories or saw some evidence of his escapades. or maybe steve as he was two years ago.
now he does care, so he lifts a hand to his neck and tries not to touch the hickeys that definitely look like a vampire went at his neck because they're still at the stage they're sore. he clears his throat. ) Uh, kinda. I think it looks worse than it is. ( he shifts his hand, rubs the back of his neck. ) The spots from the demo-bat bruise kinda scarred and I guess this is what happens now-- yeah.
( why he has to explain himself to eddie? steve's not really sure. he just, kinda feels like he should. it's that or there's something about eddie that confuses him and makes steve feel a little off-balance always, but not in a way that has him nervous.
he snorts at the comment on his house, turns into the house. ) This is it. All in it's cream and pastel fame ( everything was decorated by his mom, updated recently though his parents spend more of their time out of town than within their goddamn house. steve sticks his hands into the pockets of his sweats. ) Sadly you missed it's glory days, Munson.
( and then he stops, thinks about that for a moment. it's a little wild to have eddie here, in his house. to be hanging out so ) You need good lighting right? So there's the bathroom down here or on the couch in the living room. What's easier for you? You're the expert.
now he does care, so he lifts a hand to his neck and tries not to touch the hickeys that definitely look like a vampire went at his neck because they're still at the stage they're sore. he clears his throat. ) Uh, kinda. I think it looks worse than it is. ( he shifts his hand, rubs the back of his neck. ) The spots from the demo-bat bruise kinda scarred and I guess this is what happens now-- yeah.
( why he has to explain himself to eddie? steve's not really sure. he just, kinda feels like he should. it's that or there's something about eddie that confuses him and makes steve feel a little off-balance always, but not in a way that has him nervous.
he snorts at the comment on his house, turns into the house. ) This is it. All in it's cream and pastel fame ( everything was decorated by his mom, updated recently though his parents spend more of their time out of town than within their goddamn house. steve sticks his hands into the pockets of his sweats. ) Sadly you missed it's glory days, Munson.
( and then he stops, thinks about that for a moment. it's a little wild to have eddie here, in his house. to be hanging out so ) You need good lighting right? So there's the bathroom down here or on the couch in the living room. What's easier for you? You're the expert.
[ The mere mention of the demobats causes Eddie to flinch, his hand automatically going to his side, to his own matching scars. There's maybe a reason he hasn't been too enthusiastic about rushing into bed with anyone else since everything went down.
How do you even explain to someone who isn't in the know how you got these scars? He guesses that people generally don't care when it comes to Steve Harrington, but Eddie? Well, Eddie already has enough of a reputation as a freak that it's not like anyone is lining up to be with him.
Still, he listens attentively, keeping his face neutral since this is about Steve, not Eddie. Sure, he will absolutely flirt with Steve to his heart's content, but he knows better than to assume there's anything there to be reciprocated. ]
Shit, man. Well, let's get you cleaned up then.
[ He's a bit nosy as Steve leads him further into the house, glancing at family photos, though it doesn't look like there has been anything recent. Before he can think too much into that, though, he's left with the question of where to go, between the bathroom and couch. ]
Living room, I think. We'll be more comfortable here. I promise I won't get any concealer on your precious couch. Probably costs more than our whole trailer.
[ He cracks a grin, gesturing to the couch with his head. ]
How do you even explain to someone who isn't in the know how you got these scars? He guesses that people generally don't care when it comes to Steve Harrington, but Eddie? Well, Eddie already has enough of a reputation as a freak that it's not like anyone is lining up to be with him.
Still, he listens attentively, keeping his face neutral since this is about Steve, not Eddie. Sure, he will absolutely flirt with Steve to his heart's content, but he knows better than to assume there's anything there to be reciprocated. ]
Shit, man. Well, let's get you cleaned up then.
[ He's a bit nosy as Steve leads him further into the house, glancing at family photos, though it doesn't look like there has been anything recent. Before he can think too much into that, though, he's left with the question of where to go, between the bathroom and couch. ]
Living room, I think. We'll be more comfortable here. I promise I won't get any concealer on your precious couch. Probably costs more than our whole trailer.
[ He cracks a grin, gesturing to the couch with his head. ]
Yeah and-- I don't know. Never mind. It's probably weird to go into it. ( he's not sure why he even started down the path where he tells eddie about any details of his love life but it had started to come out. steve resists the urge to rub at his neck again, tries to keep it cool.
be cool, he repeats to himself, and almost misses when eddie speaks. )
Couch it is. ( eddie grins and steve matches it, grins back as he sweeps a hand toward the couch like he's leading the way and eddie can't see the thing. he snorts at the comment though, shakes his head. )
Nah, don't worry about that. No one will notice if you do even if that couch is probably worth, yeah, like three grand? I spilled beer on it before my parents visited last time and my mom didn't notice though she swears it's her favorite thing in the house. ( or that may be the piano, or the vases from italy, or some other piece ordered in an abandoned for either steve or the maids that still come around to deal with.
steve leads them to the couch and then sits down so he's sitting with his shoulder pressed to the back, plenty of room in front of him for eddie. he clears his throat. ) How do we do this? ( his shirt is partially hiding the marks but he guesses that eddie can work around that. )
be cool, he repeats to himself, and almost misses when eddie speaks. )
Couch it is. ( eddie grins and steve matches it, grins back as he sweeps a hand toward the couch like he's leading the way and eddie can't see the thing. he snorts at the comment though, shakes his head. )
Nah, don't worry about that. No one will notice if you do even if that couch is probably worth, yeah, like three grand? I spilled beer on it before my parents visited last time and my mom didn't notice though she swears it's her favorite thing in the house. ( or that may be the piano, or the vases from italy, or some other piece ordered in an abandoned for either steve or the maids that still come around to deal with.
steve leads them to the couch and then sits down so he's sitting with his shoulder pressed to the back, plenty of room in front of him for eddie. he clears his throat. ) How do we do this? ( his shirt is partially hiding the marks but he guesses that eddie can work around that. )
[ It's easy enough to push thoughts of Steve and someone else out of his head. It's a lot harder to do when Steve is sitting right in front of him with the evidence of Steve's date night staring him in the face. He doesn't mean to gulp or show anything resembling jealousy on his face as he tilts Steve's head to the side to get a better look and tries to resist the urge to brush his fingers across the bruised skin. ]
Your parents really aren't that observant then, huh? I so much as spilled water on the couch and I got... [ He pauses as he wonders if he should go into detail about the treatment he got from his parents before he was taken in by Wayne. ] Well, let's just say I'm glad Wayne lets me get away with more shit.
[ Now that they are seated on the couch, there's nothing more to it than getting right down to business. He digs out the small container of concealer and setting powder as well as a few different types of makeup brushes and a sponge that looked like it was purchased from a drug store. ]
I'm gonna hope that the shade of concealer I have will blend in enough that this isn't just going to look super obvious. Just, keep your head tilted like so -- [ He pauses to adjust so that the bruised skin is much more accessible. ] And try not to move, yeah? [ He doesn't wait for a response before he unscrews the cap off the concealer and starts to dab some of it on the back of his hand, using the makeup sponge to layer the concealer little by little to cover up the pigmentation. ]
Your parents really aren't that observant then, huh? I so much as spilled water on the couch and I got... [ He pauses as he wonders if he should go into detail about the treatment he got from his parents before he was taken in by Wayne. ] Well, let's just say I'm glad Wayne lets me get away with more shit.
[ Now that they are seated on the couch, there's nothing more to it than getting right down to business. He digs out the small container of concealer and setting powder as well as a few different types of makeup brushes and a sponge that looked like it was purchased from a drug store. ]
I'm gonna hope that the shade of concealer I have will blend in enough that this isn't just going to look super obvious. Just, keep your head tilted like so -- [ He pauses to adjust so that the bruised skin is much more accessible. ] And try not to move, yeah? [ He doesn't wait for a response before he unscrews the cap off the concealer and starts to dab some of it on the back of his hand, using the makeup sponge to layer the concealer little by little to cover up the pigmentation. ]
Not really. ( steve says after a moment, not really want to think about it. his parents aren't that observant; it's a fact. they have a lot happening, he understands, but sometimes -- often -- he feels a bit bitter that they're so wrapped up in other things of anything he does until it's a step out of the cookie cutter mold that being a harrington should have put him in.
so he shakes that thought away, focuses on eddie. )
Parents can suck and your uncle seems like a good guy. ( steve got the sense of that from nancy, honestly, and dustin. when eddie was hiding and wayne was so worried. he hasn't really spent time with him and he can't judge himself, but he's glad that eddie was with him if his own parents were pissed about water. steve was lucky. his parents, when around, weren't cruel.
he sits in front of eddie and lets him move his head, position him how he wants it. the touch is-- the touch isn't unexpected but steve finds he misses it the second eddie's fingers are off his skin. that's new, makes butterflies flutter through his stomach. huh.
then eddie's back with a sponge and steve's not really sure what he's doing. ) I can stay still. ( he says to say something, brain lagging behind. ) And hopefully it covers... You are a lot paler than I am. Kinda vampy. ( eddie's got that metalhead, pale and pasty thing going but not in a bad way. steve's lost some of his summer tan through the harsher months, yeah, but even pale he's got more of a tan to him. )
so he shakes that thought away, focuses on eddie. )
Parents can suck and your uncle seems like a good guy. ( steve got the sense of that from nancy, honestly, and dustin. when eddie was hiding and wayne was so worried. he hasn't really spent time with him and he can't judge himself, but he's glad that eddie was with him if his own parents were pissed about water. steve was lucky. his parents, when around, weren't cruel.
he sits in front of eddie and lets him move his head, position him how he wants it. the touch is-- the touch isn't unexpected but steve finds he misses it the second eddie's fingers are off his skin. that's new, makes butterflies flutter through his stomach. huh.
then eddie's back with a sponge and steve's not really sure what he's doing. ) I can stay still. ( he says to say something, brain lagging behind. ) And hopefully it covers... You are a lot paler than I am. Kinda vampy. ( eddie's got that metalhead, pale and pasty thing going but not in a bad way. steve's lost some of his summer tan through the harsher months, yeah, but even pale he's got more of a tan to him. )
[ while it's certainly not the same, eddie can't help but compare their upbringings. eddie's brand of parenting was neglectful in a much different way from steve's, resulting in eddie nearly getting pulled into the wonderful world of juvie at such a young age.
but he got out of it in the end, wound up with an uncle who's been a better parent than he could have ever hoped for. but steve? steve's stuck with his parents, and Eddie can't help but feel a touch sad, even though he doesn't know the extent of what steve has been through. ]
Yeah, Wayne's a good guy. For sure. Gonna miss him when I move out. [ he says it so casually, and even though he has no solid plans, he knows it's going to happen eventually. he can't live in that trailer forever. for one, it still gives him the creeps.
he tries to convince himself it won't be running away to move on, to grow up, maybe even move in with someone one day. ]
You're definitely better at staying still than Dustin is. Love the kid to death but damn if he doesn't fidget at the table when it's not his turn.
[ at this point, he's talking to fill up the silence, to make it feel less weird that he is applying makeup to steve's neck and cover up someone else's handiwork. while simultaneously ignoring the fact that he maybe kind of wishes that were his handiwork. ]
True, I am. Don't exactly have the luxury of a backyard with a pool to lounge around at. [ it's meant to be teasing as he continues to spread the concealer across the bruise, building up enough layers and blend it out so it doesn't look like such an obvious cover up job. it's a little bit different than covering up a tattoo, but he likes to think he did a pretty damn good job. ]
Vampy, though, huh? You think about me biting other people's necks? [ yeah, that's it, munson, just dig yourself deeper and deeper into that hole of yours.
time to break out the powder and finish this the hell up so he can get out of there before he makes a further fool out of himself. ]
but he got out of it in the end, wound up with an uncle who's been a better parent than he could have ever hoped for. but steve? steve's stuck with his parents, and Eddie can't help but feel a touch sad, even though he doesn't know the extent of what steve has been through. ]
Yeah, Wayne's a good guy. For sure. Gonna miss him when I move out. [ he says it so casually, and even though he has no solid plans, he knows it's going to happen eventually. he can't live in that trailer forever. for one, it still gives him the creeps.
he tries to convince himself it won't be running away to move on, to grow up, maybe even move in with someone one day. ]
You're definitely better at staying still than Dustin is. Love the kid to death but damn if he doesn't fidget at the table when it's not his turn.
[ at this point, he's talking to fill up the silence, to make it feel less weird that he is applying makeup to steve's neck and cover up someone else's handiwork. while simultaneously ignoring the fact that he maybe kind of wishes that were his handiwork. ]
True, I am. Don't exactly have the luxury of a backyard with a pool to lounge around at. [ it's meant to be teasing as he continues to spread the concealer across the bruise, building up enough layers and blend it out so it doesn't look like such an obvious cover up job. it's a little bit different than covering up a tattoo, but he likes to think he did a pretty damn good job. ]
Vampy, though, huh? You think about me biting other people's necks? [ yeah, that's it, munson, just dig yourself deeper and deeper into that hole of yours.
time to break out the powder and finish this the hell up so he can get out of there before he makes a further fool out of himself. ]
You're going to move out? Like to your own place? ( that catches steve's attention, actually, because he knows that's a thing people do. they move out, get their own places. they even leave hawkins. for some reason, it's easier to think about it in terms of other people than something he'd do himself.
thinking of eddie leaving makes him frown, even though that'd probably be better for him. hawkins isn't exactly a fan of eddie munson even though he's been cleared of all the accusations made against him. ) I mean, that's cool.
( smoothe, steve.
he rolls his eyes at the mention of the pool. it's taken him so long to get over what happened there, to be able to use it again. he doesn't shudder under eddie's touch and maybe if he does, a little, it's because the skin on his neck is sensitive and eddie's touching the faint scars. ) You could use my pool if you want. Didn't realize that was all that was keeping you from golden skin.
( another cough. totally that powder. ) I mean... It kind of goes with your whole vibe? The vampy thing and, sure, the biting. ( maybe he's thought about that a lot. ) You'd probably not leave someone looking this mauled.
thinking of eddie leaving makes him frown, even though that'd probably be better for him. hawkins isn't exactly a fan of eddie munson even though he's been cleared of all the accusations made against him. ) I mean, that's cool.
( smoothe, steve.
he rolls his eyes at the mention of the pool. it's taken him so long to get over what happened there, to be able to use it again. he doesn't shudder under eddie's touch and maybe if he does, a little, it's because the skin on his neck is sensitive and eddie's touching the faint scars. ) You could use my pool if you want. Didn't realize that was all that was keeping you from golden skin.
( another cough. totally that powder. ) I mean... It kind of goes with your whole vibe? The vampy thing and, sure, the biting. ( maybe he's thought about that a lot. ) You'd probably not leave someone looking this mauled.
[ It should be so easy, right? Just pack up all the belongings he have (which is not much considering he's had to fit them in a double wide) and find a place that will rent to him. Yet something is still tethering him in place, and he's not so sure it's Wayne anymore.
He knows Wayne would be all too happy to see him go. ]
Yeah, you'd come visit me, though, right?
[ The thought of using Steve's pool catches Eddie's interest and he pauses his work on Steve's neck to pull back and raise an eyebrow dramatically. ]
Why, Harrington, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you wanted to ogle me while I'm sunbathing. [ He says it teasingly, because he can't resist the urge to flirt with Steve. It's definitely one of his more innocent of self destructive habits, but still he knows he's only making it worse and worse for himself the more he does it. ]
Oh, yeah, I'm all about subtlety when it comes to that. The whole thing with vampires is they don't usually want to get caught, right? [ He brushes the last of the powder over Steve's neck and then uses his own hot breath as an extra step to set his handiwork. ]
I'd leave a tasteful mark. Just enough so that the person could admire it and remember, but not terrible enough that it's immediately obvious to anyone who so much as glances their way.
He knows Wayne would be all too happy to see him go. ]
Yeah, you'd come visit me, though, right?
[ The thought of using Steve's pool catches Eddie's interest and he pauses his work on Steve's neck to pull back and raise an eyebrow dramatically. ]
Why, Harrington, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you wanted to ogle me while I'm sunbathing. [ He says it teasingly, because he can't resist the urge to flirt with Steve. It's definitely one of his more innocent of self destructive habits, but still he knows he's only making it worse and worse for himself the more he does it. ]
Oh, yeah, I'm all about subtlety when it comes to that. The whole thing with vampires is they don't usually want to get caught, right? [ He brushes the last of the powder over Steve's neck and then uses his own hot breath as an extra step to set his handiwork. ]
I'd leave a tasteful mark. Just enough so that the person could admire it and remember, but not terrible enough that it's immediately obvious to anyone who so much as glances their way.
Sure, I'd visit you. Henderson would probably make me drive him too. That kid would miss you a lot. ( steve not ready to say that he'd go without dustin too, but he would.
if he doesn't look at eddie when he teases him, well, that's not really new. and luckily there's enough make up on his neck to hide some of that blush. ) Wow, man. You've caught me. ( and that comes out as dry as he can manage, looking a little skeptical at eddie so hopefully it comes out more like a guy teasing another guy (which is just what eddie is doing, right?) rather than that the answer to that statement is a surprising 'yeah, kinda' that steve doesn't know what to do with.
and oh. then eddie's leaning in, breath hot on his neck and steve's balling his hands into fists on his thighs. he's going to die. he is. ) Is that so?
Aren't vampires not supposed to have any self control when they drink blood? What if you go overboard, dude? Your poor victim's going to have a neck that looks like mine. ( which looks pretty bad, honestly. steve would love a subtle mark instead of what he's dealing with and eddie so close isn't helping his imagination not run wild. )
if he doesn't look at eddie when he teases him, well, that's not really new. and luckily there's enough make up on his neck to hide some of that blush. ) Wow, man. You've caught me. ( and that comes out as dry as he can manage, looking a little skeptical at eddie so hopefully it comes out more like a guy teasing another guy (which is just what eddie is doing, right?) rather than that the answer to that statement is a surprising 'yeah, kinda' that steve doesn't know what to do with.
and oh. then eddie's leaning in, breath hot on his neck and steve's balling his hands into fists on his thighs. he's going to die. he is. ) Is that so?
Aren't vampires not supposed to have any self control when they drink blood? What if you go overboard, dude? Your poor victim's going to have a neck that looks like mine. ( which looks pretty bad, honestly. steve would love a subtle mark instead of what he's dealing with and eddie so close isn't helping his imagination not run wild. )
[ and to think, when this friendship started out, the two of them were jealous of each other, thinking dustin liked the other more. now, though? now he knows steve would go to the deepest, darkest pits of despair if it meant keeping dustin and the rest of the kids alive. and eddie? well, eddie is still trying to grapple with the idea that running isn't automatically cowardice.
he smiles, though, at the thought of dustin insisting that steve drive him hours away just for a visit, regardless of what steve wants. he likes to think he's picked up on steve's idiosyncrasies enough to know that deep down, steve wouldn't do something like that for dustin if a part of him didn't actually want to himself. ]
Thought so. [ eddie is grinning as he puts the finishing touches on his handiwork, admiring how much more difficult it is to tell that the love bites were far more menacing looking before he started. it's thanks to his distraction that he doesn't really pick up on steve's reaction to his teasing. which is definitely flirting, but he doesn't expect steve to flirt back anyway. people generally don't flirt back with eddie munson. ]
Oh, well, in that case I guess I'd better keep more of this concealer on hand, just in case. [ he scoots back a bit so he can get a better look at what steve's neck looks like from a bit of a distance. aside from the scarring around his neck, it looks more or less steve-like. ] I wouldn't be like the other vampires, though. I would definitely exhibit self-control.
he smiles, though, at the thought of dustin insisting that steve drive him hours away just for a visit, regardless of what steve wants. he likes to think he's picked up on steve's idiosyncrasies enough to know that deep down, steve wouldn't do something like that for dustin if a part of him didn't actually want to himself. ]
Thought so. [ eddie is grinning as he puts the finishing touches on his handiwork, admiring how much more difficult it is to tell that the love bites were far more menacing looking before he started. it's thanks to his distraction that he doesn't really pick up on steve's reaction to his teasing. which is definitely flirting, but he doesn't expect steve to flirt back anyway. people generally don't flirt back with eddie munson. ]
Oh, well, in that case I guess I'd better keep more of this concealer on hand, just in case. [ he scoots back a bit so he can get a better look at what steve's neck looks like from a bit of a distance. aside from the scarring around his neck, it looks more or less steve-like. ] I wouldn't be like the other vampires, though. I would definitely exhibit self-control.
( eddie seems so blase about that, about being close and talking about necking of all things that steve's not sure what to think. he'd thought that maybe he'd react to that? maybe?
something that would give steve a hint of if he can flirt a little of if they're just two friends without boundaries. can guy have that? eddie seems to operate under that assumption but steve's not really sure since there was an unspoken keep three feet apart rule between him and his other guy friends. bro code, you know?
eddie scoots back and steve nods, lifts a hand to run it through his hair and definitely doesn't mess it up. ) How would you exhibit self control against blood lust? ( he sounds skeptical at that, brow raised as he looks at eddie. )
something that would give steve a hint of if he can flirt a little of if they're just two friends without boundaries. can guy have that? eddie seems to operate under that assumption but steve's not really sure since there was an unspoken keep three feet apart rule between him and his other guy friends. bro code, you know?
eddie scoots back and steve nods, lifts a hand to run it through his hair and definitely doesn't mess it up. ) How would you exhibit self control against blood lust? ( he sounds skeptical at that, brow raised as he looks at eddie. )
[ that's the thing about eddie. he's never cared enough about keeping up appearances. everyone knows he's a freak anyway, right? and besides, steve's never told him to fuck off, so.
big boy it is.
and maybe somewhere along the line the flirting became a touch more than just his usual method of communication. but he's also been really good at dramatics, at smoke and mirrors, at saying one thing while meaning another entirely. so if he manages to fool even himself, well, nobody is any the wiser. ]
Most of my supply would be from blood bags. Borrow them from the hospital, super easy. That way when presented with a neck as luscious as yours, I'd only need to sample a taste.
big boy it is.
and maybe somewhere along the line the flirting became a touch more than just his usual method of communication. but he's also been really good at dramatics, at smoke and mirrors, at saying one thing while meaning another entirely. so if he manages to fool even himself, well, nobody is any the wiser. ]
Most of my supply would be from blood bags. Borrow them from the hospital, super easy. That way when presented with a neck as luscious as yours, I'd only need to sample a taste.
[ Look who's driving up at seven on the dot, some lowkey cassette playing as Steve honks the horn for Eddie. Between a comfy sweater and a flattering poloneck he opted for the latter and never intends to wonder why he questioned himself on the choice (or why there suddenly seemed to be one before he set off to pick Eddie up). It's only Eddie, after all.
Steve wipes a sweaty palm on his jeans. ]
Hey, let's get moving!
Steve wipes a sweaty palm on his jeans. ]
Hey, let's get moving!
[ Considering the lack of incredible variety in Eddie's wardrobe, it's no surprise that he tumbles out wearing a t-shirt depicting an Iron Maiden logo, his leather jacket, and a pair of ripped jeans that are probably mere days away from being too ripped to actually be considered jeans. Flashing a grin at Steve, he makes sure the trailer is locked behind him before practically skipping to the car and sliding into the passenger's side.
All of this to return his vest seems a little odd at face value, but Eddie isn't about to question it if it gets him a free meal out of the deal. ]
Hey sweetheart, right on time I see. [ Okay, yeah, he doesn't miss a chance to blow a kiss at Steve before they set off either. ] How very gentlemanly of you.
All of this to return his vest seems a little odd at face value, but Eddie isn't about to question it if it gets him a free meal out of the deal. ]
Hey sweetheart, right on time I see. [ Okay, yeah, he doesn't miss a chance to blow a kiss at Steve before they set off either. ] How very gentlemanly of you.
[ God, this guy. Steve refuses to be outdone on the flirting, he's a modern man and Robin has taught him well, even if his tone is dry as a bone. ]
You know me, honey, couldn't stay away.
[ The car pulls out and Steve shoots Eddie sidelong glances as he drives. ]
I'm just realising I could have bought your vest with me, but ... feels like I owe you dinner.
You know me, honey, couldn't stay away.
[ The car pulls out and Steve shoots Eddie sidelong glances as he drives. ]
I'm just realising I could have bought your vest with me, but ... feels like I owe you dinner.
Edited 2022-07-25 19:17 (UTC)
[ Considering Steve's reputation, Eddie really shouldn't be surprised he can dish it as well as he can take it. He shakes his head as he relaxes into the car seat and returns the glance, an eyebrow raised in skepticism. ]
Yeah, you definitely could have. I'm surprised you didn't, but hey, I'm not about to complain.
[ He pauses as his voice goes a little quieter, his expression turning a bit more serious. ]
You don't really owe me anything, though.
Yeah, you definitely could have. I'm surprised you didn't, but hey, I'm not about to complain.
[ He pauses as his voice goes a little quieter, his expression turning a bit more serious. ]
You don't really owe me anything, though.
[ Shit. Shit. Between Steve's smile, and his compliment, Eddie can definitely feel his cheeks heating up. He tries to look away, but that probably makes it even more obvious. ]
Yeah, well, uh. As it turns out, you guys are good at inspiring people to be heroes.
Yeah, well, uh. As it turns out, you guys are good at inspiring people to be heroes.
[ There's a look of mock hurt as Eddie clutches his chest dramatically as if pretending to be offended. ]
Please, it's one thing to be a hero in that game, and another to actually be a hero. Speaking of that "nerdy little game" [ which Eddie absolutely uses air quotes for ] Henderson wants me to convince you to come play with us sometime. I told him it was futile, but, y'know. Gotta at least try.
Please, it's one thing to be a hero in that game, and another to actually be a hero. Speaking of that "nerdy little game" [ which Eddie absolutely uses air quotes for ] Henderson wants me to convince you to come play with us sometime. I told him it was futile, but, y'know. Gotta at least try.
[ Eddie quirks an eyebrow up at that, smirking at Steve's comment. ] What, that you called him a snot or that you're actually considering playing in our campaign? It's fine, I'm sure you can buy my silence somehow.
[ His smirk grows into a grin to show he's joking, and then settles into a genuine smile once they reach the drive-thru. ]
Just a burger and fries'll do.
[ His smirk grows into a grin to show he's joking, and then settles into a genuine smile once they reach the drive-thru. ]
Just a burger and fries'll do.
We'll start with dinner, then.
[ Steve flashes him a look that could be either a flirt or friendly banter, he keeps it reined in as they order food. Once they have their stash of supplies he starts driving them back to his house, starting to grow more excited about having someone over while being entirely paranoid it'll be a disappointing experience. ]
I got some movies from work for us to watch, if you want. Or there's the billiards table if you wanna play, or the pool ...
[ Steve flashes him a look that could be either a flirt or friendly banter, he keeps it reined in as they order food. Once they have their stash of supplies he starts driving them back to his house, starting to grow more excited about having someone over while being entirely paranoid it'll be a disappointing experience. ]
I got some movies from work for us to watch, if you want. Or there's the billiards table if you wanna play, or the pool ...
Edited 2022-07-31 09:01 (UTC)
[ Eddie's not really used to someone actually wanting to hang out like him like this, and he isn't sure what to do with it. What he does know is that it causes a warmth to spread from his chest as a small smile that reaches his eyes forms, and he reaches over to clasp Steve on the shoulder in what he hopes is a reassuring gesture. ]
Hey, yeah. Dinner first. A movie sounds great, though, and... [ He pats one of the pockets of his jacket ] I do have a little something if the mood calls for it. My treat.
Hey, yeah. Dinner first. A movie sounds great, though, and... [ He pats one of the pockets of his jacket ] I do have a little something if the mood calls for it. My treat.
Movie it is. Your mysterious dessert has me curious, I wonder what that could be.
[ It's impulse to tip his head sideways and lean it on that hand, hair tickling Eddie's wrist. Affectionate, a kind of appreciation. ]
Hope you don't have to be anywhere tomorrow.
[ It's impulse to tip his head sideways and lean it on that hand, hair tickling Eddie's wrist. Affectionate, a kind of appreciation. ]
Hope you don't have to be anywhere tomorrow.
[ There's a snort that comes easily out of Eddie, though he has never been one to hold back in the way he's expressed himself. So why would he begin to start now?
Though he does look away, biting at his bottom lip when he feels Steve's hair against his wrist. ]
Luckily for you, I still am apparently unemployable, so looks like I'm yours until you kick me out.
Though he does look away, biting at his bottom lip when he feels Steve's hair against his wrist. ]
Luckily for you, I still am apparently unemployable, so looks like I'm yours until you kick me out.
[ Eddie reluctantly removes his hand, though with both hands back down in his lap, he's able to drum out the beat of the music currently stuck in his head, his thumbs rapping out against his thighs. ]
You know, that doesn't sound half bad. Not sure that's going to cover rent, though, I might need to find another job on the side.
You know, that doesn't sound half bad. Not sure that's going to cover rent, though, I might need to find another job on the side.
[ Oh, that's not at all what Eddie expects to hear, and his head snaps to the side to look at Steve with a look of disbelief, like he maybe didn't hear him correctly? ]
You want me...to move in with you?
[ Surely Steve is fucking with him. ]
I mean. If you're being serious? I would in a heartbeat.
[ He doesn't sleep much when it's just him in the trailer most of the time. Maybe he'd fare better sleeping close to someone he knows and trusts? ]
You want me...to move in with you?
[ Surely Steve is fucking with him. ]
I mean. If you're being serious? I would in a heartbeat.
[ He doesn't sleep much when it's just him in the trailer most of the time. Maybe he'd fare better sleeping close to someone he knows and trusts? ]
[ The color drains from his face as he realizes he might have been a bit too presumptuous. He made this weird, right? Totally weird. ]
No, it's uh. Forget about it. It was stupid, anyway.
[ He turns to look out the window, mostly so Steve can't see the way his face definitely is starting to flush right now. ]
No, it's uh. Forget about it. It was stupid, anyway.
[ He turns to look out the window, mostly so Steve can't see the way his face definitely is starting to flush right now. ]
No, no, no! Hold up, talk to me.
[ He can't keep his eyes off the road for long so he veers to one side of the road and keeps the brakelights on, stopping the car. He twists around to give Eddie his full attention. ]
Hey, if you're serious then tell me.
[ He can't keep his eyes off the road for long so he veers to one side of the road and keeps the brakelights on, stopping the car. He twists around to give Eddie his full attention. ]
Hey, if you're serious then tell me.
[ At the sudden stop of the car, Eddie swivels back around to regard Steve with surprise. He isn't used to this level of caring from anyone in his life. Apart from maybe his uncle. ]
I haven't slept more than, like, three hours a night since everything happened. And, uh, no one will hire me even though my name's been cleared, so.
[ There's guilt etched all over his face, because he hates it, hates having to admit that he can't do this on his own as much as he wants to. ]
I haven't slept more than, like, three hours a night since everything happened. And, uh, no one will hire me even though my name's been cleared, so.
[ There's guilt etched all over his face, because he hates it, hates having to admit that he can't do this on his own as much as he wants to. ]
[ As Steve listens he realises he's been kind of a shitty friend. Fun hangouts for him have likely been a lifeline of contact for someone shunned by the entire town, traumatised and alone. And it's not like all of them don't have nightmares, sure, but it's worse for Eddie. Will. Max.
He glances through the back window of the car and restarts the engine after a moment's silence. Does a u-turn in the road, heading back to Eddie's place. ]
Whatever we can't fit in my car tonight we'll come back for tomorrow, okay? Let's grab what we can, [ a smile flicks Eddie's way, hopefully reassuring him he's not alone and that Steve isn't leaving him behind, not tonight or ever again, ] just don't forget your toothbrush. I only have one of those.
He glances through the back window of the car and restarts the engine after a moment's silence. Does a u-turn in the road, heading back to Eddie's place. ]
Whatever we can't fit in my car tonight we'll come back for tomorrow, okay? Let's grab what we can, [ a smile flicks Eddie's way, hopefully reassuring him he's not alone and that Steve isn't leaving him behind, not tonight or ever again, ] just don't forget your toothbrush. I only have one of those.
Edited 2022-08-05 20:25 (UTC)
[ Eddie's mouth drops open, stunned as he realizes that Steve is being serious. He's never really felt truly welcome anywhere before. Wayne did his best, and he'll always love his uncle for taking him in, but it isn't the same when he feels like an afterthought.
But this? Eddie feels a warmth spreading from his chest to his fingertips. ]
We're really doing this. [ It's a bit delayed, but a grin slowly forms as he fiddles with one of his rings, eyes trained out the window as he watches the scenery bring them closer and closer to the trailer park once more. ] This is... thank you.
But this? Eddie feels a warmth spreading from his chest to his fingertips. ]
We're really doing this. [ It's a bit delayed, but a grin slowly forms as he fiddles with one of his rings, eyes trained out the window as he watches the scenery bring them closer and closer to the trailer park once more. ] This is... thank you.
The house is too empty for just me, you'd be doing me a favour by moving in.
[ He doesn't know what else to say, overwhelmed by the idea of not just having Eddie around for the night, but apparently forever. It's not a bad nervousness, just ... thrilling. ]
There are a few guest rooms, you can take your pick. One's right next to mine, actually.
[ He doesn't know what else to say, overwhelmed by the idea of not just having Eddie around for the night, but apparently forever. It's not a bad nervousness, just ... thrilling. ]
There are a few guest rooms, you can take your pick. One's right next to mine, actually.
You sure your parents won't mind if I just...suddenly am living there?
[ Eddie can feel his heart racing at the thought of maybe finally feeling like he belongs somewhere. Even if it's just staying in on of Steve's bedrooms until he can find his footing.
Because he will feel like shit if he's just relying on Steve to keep him afloat for the rest of his life. ]
But if I do get the choice, I'd definitely choose the one next to yours.
[ Eddie can feel his heart racing at the thought of maybe finally feeling like he belongs somewhere. Even if it's just staying in on of Steve's bedrooms until he can find his footing.
Because he will feel like shit if he's just relying on Steve to keep him afloat for the rest of his life. ]
But if I do get the choice, I'd definitely choose the one next to yours.
They're never around, dude, trust me. I haven't seen them for like a year.
[ The older he gets, the more they travel. He doesn't care, Steve's parents have always been their own people and he's just his dad's heir, a technicality. ]
I get bad dreams too, gonna apologise in advance for any time I wake you up if we're sharing a wall.
[ The older he gets, the more they travel. He doesn't care, Steve's parents have always been their own people and he's just his dad's heir, a technicality. ]
I get bad dreams too, gonna apologise in advance for any time I wake you up if we're sharing a wall.
Wait, really? Wow, that's. I'm sorry, man.
[ He knew Steve's parents weren't around a lot, but he figured Steve at least saw them more frequently than that. ]
You know, if you get bad dreams, like. I don't mind being woken up. Or if it'd help having someone sleep next to you.
[ He knew Steve's parents weren't around a lot, but he figured Steve at least saw them more frequently than that. ]
You know, if you get bad dreams, like. I don't mind being woken up. Or if it'd help having someone sleep next to you.
Travelling a ton, not even on holiday anymore.
[ He shrugs about his parents, blinking widely a moment later at the invitation to sleep next to Eddie. Mindful of the fact Eddie is being kind, Steve tries to straddle the line between grateful and testing the waters. ]
It's not like that would be a hardship.
[ His smile flickers, touching his eyes before he refocuses on the road. ]
[ He shrugs about his parents, blinking widely a moment later at the invitation to sleep next to Eddie. Mindful of the fact Eddie is being kind, Steve tries to straddle the line between grateful and testing the waters. ]
It's not like that would be a hardship.
[ His smile flickers, touching his eyes before he refocuses on the road. ]
[ Whatever Eddie's smile is at this point, it vanishes as Steve elaborates on the whereabouts about his parents. He knows all too well what absent parents are like, though maybe on a different sort of level. He knows he shouldn't be comparing himself to Steve, but he can't help it sometimes. He can't help wondering what it would have been like, to grow up with what Steve had.
Apparently not all that much differently, in the parental department. ]
Well I'm happy to, you know, make the place feel less empty, then.
[ And now the smile is back, lighting up his entire face. ]
You'd better not snore, though. And I can't promise I wouldn't hog the covers.
[ He keeps the tone light and playful, teasing, in the event Steve decides to walk this back, back into the safe confines of platonic with a capital P instead of whatever muddy waters Eddie seems to be steering them towards. ]
Apparently not all that much differently, in the parental department. ]
Well I'm happy to, you know, make the place feel less empty, then.
[ And now the smile is back, lighting up his entire face. ]
You'd better not snore, though. And I can't promise I wouldn't hog the covers.
[ He keeps the tone light and playful, teasing, in the event Steve decides to walk this back, back into the safe confines of platonic with a capital P instead of whatever muddy waters Eddie seems to be steering them towards. ]
I have never snored in my life.
[ Steve smiles innocently at the road ahead like he might be telling the truth if it weren't for the twinkle in his eyes. He snores a little, light and soft when exhausted.
He pauses before catching a breath, adding, ]
Let's get you settled tonight and see how well you like it next door, if you get stressed out in the night [ the most casual of shrugs as he parks them right back in front of the trailer, glancing over, ] I have a big bed.
[ Steve smiles innocently at the road ahead like he might be telling the truth if it weren't for the twinkle in his eyes. He snores a little, light and soft when exhausted.
He pauses before catching a breath, adding, ]
Let's get you settled tonight and see how well you like it next door, if you get stressed out in the night [ the most casual of shrugs as he parks them right back in front of the trailer, glancing over, ] I have a big bed.
[ It's all too easy to slip into this banter with Steve. It doesn't even feel the least bit strained, which should probably feel weirder, but apparently bonding over shared trauma will do that to you.
As Steve parks in front of the trailer, Eddie looks over with an almost dazed expression, as if he never expected his life to lead to this moment, where he's about to become a much more permanent fixture in Steve's life. ]
That sounds like a plan I can get behind. [ A small grin forms as he starts to get out of the car before leaning back over to the driver's side, towards Steve. ] You ready to see how much of my shit we can cram into your car?
As Steve parks in front of the trailer, Eddie looks over with an almost dazed expression, as if he never expected his life to lead to this moment, where he's about to become a much more permanent fixture in Steve's life. ]
That sounds like a plan I can get behind. [ A small grin forms as he starts to get out of the car before leaning back over to the driver's side, towards Steve. ] You ready to see how much of my shit we can cram into your car?
[ she makes a note to ask him about his dad sometime — he's mentioned an uncle whom he lives with, but not much about his parents. maybe there'll be a better chance to broach that subject in a way that doesn't seem prying.
in the meantime: ]
I have one too. A fake ID.
Some of the girls on the team got me one, so that they could drag me along occasionally to some of the bars downtown.
It's terrible. Doesn't even look like me.
in the meantime: ]
I have one too. A fake ID.
Some of the girls on the team got me one, so that they could drag me along occasionally to some of the bars downtown.
It's terrible. Doesn't even look like me.
[ that unsurprisingly makes a lot of sense, yet somehow despite chrissy being a part of the cheerleading squad he always managed to separate her from the rest of them. it's always weird to be reminded that, oh yeah, all those girls that called him names behind his back, they were in that squad, too. ]
They never do. Luckily they seem to pay more attention to knowing your zodiac sign than anything else.
Not that they've even carded me lately. Maybe my hair makes me look older.
They never do. Luckily they seem to pay more attention to knowing your zodiac sign than anything else.
Not that they've even carded me lately. Maybe my hair makes me look older.
[ :c ]
You definitely look younger with it shorter.
[ ...she remembers, ok. ]
You definitely look younger with it shorter.
[ ...she remembers, ok. ]
I did remember about your band, when we met in the woods.
But I remember other stuff too, now that I’ve started thinking about [ - you - ] junior high, again.
But I remember other stuff too, now that I’ve started thinking about [ - you - ] junior high, again.
Yeah, I guess I just figured after everything you'd, I don't know. Forget again?
[ He tries so hard to make himself less forgettable, usually for the wrong reasons, with his antics. Finding out that it might have worked for once is incredible. ]
What about junior high have we been thinking about?
[ He tries so hard to make himself less forgettable, usually for the wrong reasons, with his antics. Finding out that it might have worked for once is incredible. ]
What about junior high have we been thinking about?
[ how could she forget, again? she's made that mistake already, she's not going to repeat it. ]
How you looked, with shorter hair.
How you cheered me on from backstage during the talent show.
How you didn't seem to care what anyone thought of you, but you didn't hold it against me that I did.
How you looked, with shorter hair.
How you cheered me on from backstage during the talent show.
How you didn't seem to care what anyone thought of you, but you didn't hold it against me that I did.
[ he's speechless. sure, he remembered every little detail from back then, but he's always been weirdly perceptive about that. plus, it was chrissy, so. ]
You know, you had one of the best acts at that show?
Me, cheering on the cheerleader. Yeah, that sounds about right.
[ and hey, she's good enough that she managed to spread some cheer to eddie, which is a feat in and of itself. ]
You know, you had one of the best acts at that show?
Me, cheering on the cheerleader. Yeah, that sounds about right.
[ and hey, she's good enough that she managed to spread some cheer to eddie, which is a feat in and of itself. ]
Edited 2022-07-28 23:49 (UTC)
I've seen a lot of creepy, but that STILL sounds creepy to me man.
Yeah? I'm not a nun. Plus I was out of my mind on Russian mind control drugs with Robin once. Which were kind of great until the come down, as long as someone wasn't beating the hell out of you.
Yeah? I'm not a nun. Plus I was out of my mind on Russian mind control drugs with Robin once. Which were kind of great until the come down, as long as someone wasn't beating the hell out of you.
Yeah, well, I might also have a bigger tolerance for the creep factor by now.
That's honestly fair. Russians though? Beating the hell out of you?! I knew Hawkins was kind of fucked up after being introduced to the Upside Down and all but this is
well not what I expected. I guess I should stop setting my expectations so high.
That's honestly fair. Russians though? Beating the hell out of you?! I knew Hawkins was kind of fucked up after being introduced to the Upside Down and all but this is
well not what I expected. I guess I should stop setting my expectations so high.
Yeah, Russians. That whole thing with the mall, that was actually us, and a gate that the russians were opening. Ended up with a big ass monster after the russians. It was pretty crazy.
It's not the only time I've been high, just like, the highest it's possible to be I think. Robin and me were cracking up while they had a whole little table of torture tools set up and all. Completely nuts.
But yeah, I'd be good with that. And I know who your guy is, I'm not that big an idiot.
It's not the only time I've been high, just like, the highest it's possible to be I think. Robin and me were cracking up while they had a whole little table of torture tools set up and all. Completely nuts.
But yeah, I'd be good with that. And I know who your guy is, I'm not that big an idiot.
Okay, wow, that's actually insane. Like, yes, this whole shit with the gates and the Upside Down is insane, too, but it's. It's being the only people to know this shit and still keep on living as if everything's fine, I don't think I'll ever get used to it.
Yeah, and when it's against your will it's not really fun. I know, I know, understatement of the fucking century, but. That kind of shit would break even the strongest guy, and the fact that you both have come out of it as (eh, mostly) well adjusted as you are? That's commendable.
But yeah, consider it a free pass to be cashed in whenever you want, man.
Yeah, and when it's against your will it's not really fun. I know, I know, understatement of the fucking century, but. That kind of shit would break even the strongest guy, and the fact that you both have come out of it as (eh, mostly) well adjusted as you are? That's commendable.
But yeah, consider it a free pass to be cashed in whenever you want, man.
It's all crazy. But it's crazy how you can get used to crazy after a while too. You will too. You handle it pretty well already.
You're kind of weirdly nice, you know that? But nah, they didn't get far when it came to interrogating us, plus we had like, jack to tell them, since we weren't working for anyone but Scoops Ahoy. Henderson and Lady Applejack came back to help us instead of getting out like we told them to.
Come by whenever man. I'm not scheduled to work until Monday and my dad's gone.
You're kind of weirdly nice, you know that? But nah, they didn't get far when it came to interrogating us, plus we had like, jack to tell them, since we weren't working for anyone but Scoops Ahoy. Henderson and Lady Applejack came back to help us instead of getting out like we told them to.
Come by whenever man. I'm not scheduled to work until Monday and my dad's gone.
Looks can be deceiving, I gotta be honest. I haven't been sleeping, and when I do, it's nightmares all around. But hey, at least I'm not a wanted man anymore?
Weirdly nice. I'll take it. Well score one for the kids, I knew Henderson had it in him. Lady Applejack, though, continues to surprise me. I'm glad they did, though. Go back for you, that is.
Oh really? Well as you can imagine I've got a whole lot of nothing so I can, in fact, come by whenever. Later tonight maybe?
Weirdly nice. I'll take it. Well score one for the kids, I knew Henderson had it in him. Lady Applejack, though, continues to surprise me. I'm glad they did, though. Go back for you, that is.
Oh really? Well as you can imagine I've got a whole lot of nothing so I can, in fact, come by whenever. Later tonight maybe?
Yeah. I'll be honest, I've gotten pretty damn familiar with the crappy ads and reruns and stuff they run on late night tv these days. I'd say it gets better, but since there's new crap happening all the time, I'd be lying.
Most people just aren't, so it's a surprise when they are, you know? And she's pretty badass for a kid. Just don't tell her that or she'll start getting as full of it as Dustin. I'm glad it worked out like it did since we mostly all came out alive, but it was stupid of them. There were dozens of armed russians down there and two kids.
Sure. (Insert address Eddie probably already knows here.). I'll order pizza or something.
Most people just aren't, so it's a surprise when they are, you know? And she's pretty badass for a kid. Just don't tell her that or she'll start getting as full of it as Dustin. I'm glad it worked out like it did since we mostly all came out alive, but it was stupid of them. There were dozens of armed russians down there and two kids.
Sure. (Insert address Eddie probably already knows here.). I'll order pizza or something.
Yeah if it weren't for my uncle coming in at odd hours I probably would resort to that. For now I've just been smoking before bed and hoping for the best.
I've gotten the sense that her sass knows no bounds, so do not worry, she will never know we secretly admire her guts. Yeah, I mean, on the one hand incredibly stupid. But it meant you got out of there as well as Robin, so I can't be totally mad, you know?
Shit yeah, pizza sounds amazing. I'll be by later!
[ And sure enough, "later tonight" rolls around. Eddie probably could have finalized an exact time, but if Steve was going to be around anyway, it probably wouldn't hurt to just shoot him a quick text of on my way mostly so Steve could start working on ordering that pizza.
But Eddie's used to not having solid plans all the time. Without a "real" (legal) job and with most of the people he hangs out with being either children who play D&D or the guys in his band, that doesn't exactly leave Eddie with the most fulfilling social life. But it's fine. That leaves him wide open for shit like this.
As soon as his van pulls up to Steve's house, he lets out a low whistle. He knew Steve's parents were affluent, but this? Which still has Eddie confused as to how he of all people wound up with someone like Steve as a friend.
Without further ado, he stumbles out of his van and up to the front door, knocking out a rhythm instead of ringing the doorbell. What? At least now Steve definitely knows it's him. ]
I've gotten the sense that her sass knows no bounds, so do not worry, she will never know we secretly admire her guts. Yeah, I mean, on the one hand incredibly stupid. But it meant you got out of there as well as Robin, so I can't be totally mad, you know?
Shit yeah, pizza sounds amazing. I'll be by later!
[ And sure enough, "later tonight" rolls around. Eddie probably could have finalized an exact time, but if Steve was going to be around anyway, it probably wouldn't hurt to just shoot him a quick text of on my way mostly so Steve could start working on ordering that pizza.
But Eddie's used to not having solid plans all the time. Without a "real" (legal) job and with most of the people he hangs out with being either children who play D&D or the guys in his band, that doesn't exactly leave Eddie with the most fulfilling social life. But it's fine. That leaves him wide open for shit like this.
As soon as his van pulls up to Steve's house, he lets out a low whistle. He knew Steve's parents were affluent, but this? Which still has Eddie confused as to how he of all people wound up with someone like Steve as a friend.
Without further ado, he stumbles out of his van and up to the front door, knocking out a rhythm instead of ringing the doorbell. What? At least now Steve definitely knows it's him. ]
What was your plan if you couldn't get ahold of me? Just hang out until whenever I did get home and hope my mother didn't come home and string you up?
[She's trying to joke about it, but there's some truth there, unfortunately. Her mother is not the most open-minded person.]
Maybe!
[She's trying to joke about it, but there's some truth there, unfortunately. Her mother is not the most open-minded person.]
Maybe!
Oh my god, Eddie. Please love yourself. You're lucky they're out of town with friends today.
[Not as lucky as she is, maybe, but that's entirely beside the point.]
Good.
[Not as lucky as she is, maybe, but that's entirely beside the point.]
Good.
Yeah, yeah, extremely lucky, I know.
[ He does know, really. He's always been stupidly impulsive, and it hasn't gotten him in too much hot water just yet, but it's bound to eventually. He's just glad the only hot water it's gotten him into this time is a sore arm as he's been forced to stay in this uncomfortable position until rescue is on its way. ]
[ He does know, really. He's always been stupidly impulsive, and it hasn't gotten him in too much hot water just yet, but it's bound to eventually. He's just glad the only hot water it's gotten him into this time is a sore arm as he's been forced to stay in this uncomfortable position until rescue is on its way. ]
So since I have to swoop in to rescue you, I have decided to allow you to make it up to me. :)
That's where you come in, Eddie! You get to figure that part out and surprise me.
[She's being very presumptuous here, but she's also not the one who broke into his house and handcuffed herself to his sink.]
[She's being very presumptuous here, but she's also not the one who broke into his house and handcuffed herself to his sink.]
Surprise you? Hmm, I think I can do that.
[ After all, the whole handcuffing himself to a sink was meant to be as surprise. Just not a well thought out one.
He can do better!
Although now he's just glad he didn't handcuff himself to her bed, because with his luck her mother would definitely have caught him, and he would absolutely be dead right now. ]
Though I can't promise I'll come up with the surprise by the time you come and rescue me...
[ After all, the whole handcuffing himself to a sink was meant to be as surprise. Just not a well thought out one.
He can do better!
Although now he's just glad he didn't handcuff himself to her bed, because with his luck her mother would definitely have caught him, and he would absolutely be dead right now. ]
Though I can't promise I'll come up with the surprise by the time you come and rescue me...
That's right.
[So much of her life feels predictable and Eddie is like a breath of chaotic, unpredictably fresh air. And sure, maybe handcuffing himself to her bathroom sink might not have been the wisest move but it's certainly not predictable.
It could have been a lot worse. At least her bathroom is clean.]
How much time do you need to come up with these ideas?
[So much of her life feels predictable and Eddie is like a breath of chaotic, unpredictably fresh air. And sure, maybe handcuffing himself to her bathroom sink might not have been the wisest move but it's certainly not predictable.
It could have been a lot worse. At least her bathroom is clean.]
How much time do you need to come up with these ideas?
Wait. Are you asking me to wait an hour before coming to let you out?
[It seems risky, and a little cruel, if she's being honest.]
[It seems risky, and a little cruel, if she's being honest.]
Oh! Good. I wasn't actually planning on doing that.
[But this is Eddie, so she'd felt the need to ask.]
[But this is Eddie, so she'd felt the need to ask.]
I don't know about that, but you don't deserve to be stuck in my bathroom for any longer than you have to.
I'll be sure to pass the message along. My mother will probably appreciate the review.
Haven't you heard? She's secretly a fan of yours! It'll be fine.
Unfortunately, I am. But it's not personal. I think she hates everyone.
[Even Chrissy. Especially Chrissy.]
[Even Chrissy. Especially Chrissy.]
Then I guess now you know what your bandana will be used for.
I know it's surprising. But I'm more than just a pretty face!
I used to not have them at all. Now it's basically all I can think about. And I think it's all your fault.
Twisted? Me? Eddie, I don't know what you're talking about.
[yes, she does. she's just trying to avoid telling him that she's blushing right now at the thought of talking dirty more than she already has.]
[yes, she does. she's just trying to avoid telling him that she's blushing right now at the thought of talking dirty more than she already has.]
If I tell you, it'd ruin the surprise. I'm pretty sure you can trust me when I say that you won't be disappointed.
You can be patient?
Maybe you should tell me what you want me to do. And then I can decide what kind of hint to give you.
Maybe you should tell me what you want me to do. And then I can decide what kind of hint to give you.
Hmm
would you like some hot wax to go with those ice cubes? Or is that pushing it a little too far?
would you like some hot wax to go with those ice cubes? Or is that pushing it a little too far?
Isn't it always your lucky day when you're with me? I really think you said that once, when you were trying to flatter me!
That's too bad, because flattery also works on me too.
[but she's smiling and ducking her head to hide it like he can actually see it wherever he is right now]
Can I tell you something though?
[but she's smiling and ducking her head to hide it like he can actually see it wherever he is right now]
Can I tell you something though?
I like the idea of being someone's lucky charm. Your lucky charm actually. Everyone else makes me feel like I'm not perfect enough, that I can't do anything right. But you make me feel like I'm actually worth something.
So I guess what I wanted to say is thank you. For doing that.
[It's a slightly big statement and a little heavy. But it's on her mind when he's telling her the truth about being his lucky charm.]
So I guess what I wanted to say is thank you. For doing that.
[It's a slightly big statement and a little heavy. But it's on her mind when he's telling her the truth about being his lucky charm.]
[ It takes Eddie by surprise, reading all of that. He's never really had anyone take him this seriously before, or had anything last long enough for it to get this serious. ]
You are perfect. If anyone tells you otherwise, they are full of shit.
You make me feel like I don't have to be perfect, that I can be my weirdo self, that I can let my freak flag fly, and I've never had anything quite like this before? But I know I really like you, and I really like this, what we have. And I really...I don't want to lose this.
[ Because naturally he fears putting this into words, what he feels, it's going to be the kiss of death, that he's going to lose everything that has made him feel like he belongs somewhere, with someone. ]
You are perfect. If anyone tells you otherwise, they are full of shit.
You make me feel like I don't have to be perfect, that I can be my weirdo self, that I can let my freak flag fly, and I've never had anything quite like this before? But I know I really like you, and I really like this, what we have. And I really...I don't want to lose this.
[ Because naturally he fears putting this into words, what he feels, it's going to be the kiss of death, that he's going to lose everything that has made him feel like he belongs somewhere, with someone. ]
[Chrissy reads that a few times before doing something stupid and girly and hugging the phone to her chest, like she's hugging him. He almost gets a gibberish keysmash sent back to him, but she thankfully catches it before that happens.]
We don't have to lose this. I mean, we can find a way to keep it. How hard can it be?
We don't have to lose this. I mean, we can find a way to keep it. How hard can it be?
You know what? I can't believe I'm about to say this but
[give her a second. she's a sweet girl this is a lot for her to type]
Fuck them. Seriously! Who gets to decide whether or not we can be together? Just us. Screw anyone else that tries having an opinion.
[give her a second. she's a sweet girl this is a lot for her to type]
Fuck them. Seriously! Who gets to decide whether or not we can be together? Just us. Screw anyone else that tries having an opinion.
[ Eddie can probably be heard whooping in victory from a mile away ]
I like your attitude. And just knowing that you feel that way does fill me with a lot more confidence
[ of course, a part of him does worry that he'll still somehow fuck this up, like he fucks everything up. but he tries not to let that interfere enough to become a self fulfilling prophecy ]
I like your attitude. And just knowing that you feel that way does fill me with a lot more confidence
[ of course, a part of him does worry that he'll still somehow fuck this up, like he fucks everything up. but he tries not to let that interfere enough to become a self fulfilling prophecy ]
[Eddie, stop being cute!!]
Wait. I'm not sure you can handle having more confidence.
Wait. I'm not sure you can handle having more confidence.
[ as if that is even possible ]
Yeah, see, jumping onto tables and saying damn the man is one thing. I get detention, not a big deal.
Getting cornered by the whole basketball team at one of Tammy's parties after Jason sees us together?
Hah. That's where my confidence goes out the window.
Yeah, see, jumping onto tables and saying damn the man is one thing. I get detention, not a big deal.
Getting cornered by the whole basketball team at one of Tammy's parties after Jason sees us together?
Hah. That's where my confidence goes out the window.
Robin's gay.
[ Shit... Is he allowed to tell gay people about each other? Shit shit shit. ]
And my best friend. So not a problem. At all.
[ Shit... Is he allowed to tell gay people about each other? Shit shit shit. ]
And my best friend. So not a problem. At all.
Edited 2022-07-31 00:20 (UTC)
[ Steve's lucky that Eddie clocked that one in already -- he and Robin already had The Talk™️ so he can rest easy knowing he didn't fuck this up. ]
Yeah, it's just. Sometimes it's different with guys, when people find out? So. Thank you, for not freaking out on me.
Yeah, it's just. Sometimes it's different with guys, when people find out? So. Thank you, for not freaking out on me.
Edited 2022-07-31 17:06 (UTC)
Yep, no freaking out here.
[ He's totally freaking out, but more about what to say rather than the fact that Eddie is gay. Maybe a little about that, but he's trying not to dwell on it. ]
People get weird when they think you can be into them, right? Something like that? I mean, you're not gonna like every guy just because you're gay. I don't like everyone I meet. Actually I can't stand any of the chicks that've been flirting with me lately.
[ He's totally freaking out, but more about what to say rather than the fact that Eddie is gay. Maybe a little about that, but he's trying not to dwell on it. ]
People get weird when they think you can be into them, right? Something like that? I mean, you're not gonna like every guy just because you're gay. I don't like everyone I meet. Actually I can't stand any of the chicks that've been flirting with me lately.
Yeah, that's exactly it. Like, just because I like other guys doesn't mean I like you, man, don't flatter yourself.
[ A moment later, he realizes that maybe he should have been a bit more clear on this - ]
Not. I'm not talking to you in this hypothetical situation...that's not making it any better is it
[ A moment later, he realizes that maybe he should have been a bit more clear on this - ]
Not. I'm not talking to you in this hypothetical situation...that's not making it any better is it
Hey, I wasn't gonna say anything! But I'm also not assuming you like me like that. Definitely not your type. Not like that would change me being ok with you being gay, just so you know.
Really? Not to boring or straightedge or whatever.
Well I mean... everyone thinks about shit like that, right?
Well I mean... everyone thinks about shit like that, right?
I hope none of you forget about that otherwise I'm going back to being called mom and I like this a lot more.
No, I'm pretty sure everyone can see how attractive someone is, even if they're both guys or girls. Like, people are hot, you might want to smooch them, no big deal.
No, I'm pretty sure everyone can see how attractive someone is, even if they're both guys or girls. Like, people are hot, you might want to smooch them, no big deal.
Why do you get to be dad and I'm mom?!
Oh... But... I mean, I like girls a lot, so I can't be gay.
Oh... But... I mean, I like girls a lot, so I can't be gay.
Yeah but it's not like I know the guy's sex life.
So... Wait, can I ask you something?
So... Wait, can I ask you something?
Robin's the only gay person I know. Knew. She was the only one before you. I mean no one's really been around to tell me hot queer news.
How did you know it wasn't just, like, curiosity? Or more than general appreciation? Like what if I think guys can be hot, whatever, that doesn't mean I'm gay-- bisexual-- but how'd you know it was more than that?
How did you know it wasn't just, like, curiosity? Or more than general appreciation? Like what if I think guys can be hot, whatever, that doesn't mean I'm gay-- bisexual-- but how'd you know it was more than that?
...you make a good point.
Well, it was kind of easy for me, I knew I wasn't looking at girls the way the rest of the guys around me were. And let's just say the locker room was an eye opening experience.
Like, okay, take one of those guys you think are hot, can you close your eyes and picture yourself fooling around with them? Because that was a pretty big tell on my part.
Well, it was kind of easy for me, I knew I wasn't looking at girls the way the rest of the guys around me were. And let's just say the locker room was an eye opening experience.
Like, okay, take one of those guys you think are hot, can you close your eyes and picture yourself fooling around with them? Because that was a pretty big tell on my part.
[ The reply comes at a longer delay than all the other messages Steve has sent. ]
Fuck. Yeah, locker rooms are a thing. And yeah... yeah I can.
Fuck. Yeah, locker rooms are a thing. And yeah... yeah I can.
Take it from someone who has been through all of this. It's going to suck, you're going to feel ashamed just for being who you are, but it's so worth knowing this part of you exists. And you've got me and Robin to help you through this. And Steve?
Thanks for trusting me with all of this.
[ It doesn't occur to Eddie until after he presses send that this is perhaps the first time he's called Steve by his actual name ]
Thanks for trusting me with all of this.
[ It doesn't occur to Eddie until after he presses send that this is perhaps the first time he's called Steve by his actual name ]
I can't imagine not being able to ask people about shit like this. But also, if I get annoying about it, tell me to shut the fuck up, alright?
Yeah I mean, thanks for being so cool about me... literally figuring it out just now. Wow. Also thanks for trusting me with your stuff too. Obviously I'm not going to blurt it out like I did with Robin earlier.
Yeah I mean, thanks for being so cool about me... literally figuring it out just now. Wow. Also thanks for trusting me with your stuff too. Obviously I'm not going to blurt it out like I did with Robin earlier.
Hey, no, you're not going to get annoying, that's what I'm here for. We'll, one of the things I'm here for anyway. I was in your shoes once, young grasshopper, I would have killed to have a queer sensei.
I know you won't. And I won't, either. Especially around the kids. Like they'd be cool about it, I'm sure, but also they don't know how to keep a secret for shit.
I know you won't. And I won't, either. Especially around the kids. Like they'd be cool about it, I'm sure, but also they don't know how to keep a secret for shit.
So you're going to teach me about Lord of the Rings and being gay, huh? I feel like I'm gonna have to teach you something back.
Oh shit, I hadn't even thought about that. Yeah, let's keep this between us and Robin.
FUCK I have to tell Robin, she's gonna be pissed I didn't tell her first!
Oh shit, I hadn't even thought about that. Yeah, let's keep this between us and Robin.
FUCK I have to tell Robin, she's gonna be pissed I didn't tell her first!
How about how to stop calling him king of anything?
Fuck fuck fuck. You better hide me if she starts hunting me down.
Fuck fuck fuck. You better hide me if she starts hunting me down.
I really prefer just being a guy, all that king shit was exhausting and fake as fuck.
I'll take what I can get. At least it's entertaining in there.
I'll take what I can get. At least it's entertaining in there.
Definitely not just some freak. You're our freak now. I mean honestly we're a big weird family of freaks.
Wow, for free? How generous.
Wow, for free? How generous.
Yeah thanks, I'd like to be stoned out of my mind when I die.
Thanks Eddie. But let's be real, she's more likely to just never let me live it down for the rest of my life. If she says something like "I told you so" I'll jump into the river.
Hey, that was a brave moment for you! But no, I think I'll be staying away from deep water for a little while.
I am a swimmer, though, so it's going to happen again eventually. You can't let the scary shit keep you from fun shit.
Man there's something so nice about the feeling of water, though! It's not like anything bad would happen to you, I'm trained as a lifeguard you know.
I've got a pool? And yeah, just don't stick your tongue down my throat and you might live.
I thought you didn't like every guy you met, does that change when they realize they might be queer?
Oh, well, good to know.
I'm serious about you coming over for the pool, by the way. We'll make you an Olympic swimmer in no time.
I'm serious about you coming over for the pool, by the way. We'll make you an Olympic swimmer in no time.
[ He's not going to tell Eddie how nice that sounds. ]
Hey, but no faking it just to makeout with me!
Hey, but no faking it just to makeout with me!
It's hard to tell if someone drowning is faking it or not so of course I'd just save you either way
if you ended up downing several bottles of alcohol who's to say he isn't having his own mini crisis given his rep as a ladies' man
omw over
[ It takes him maybe 15 minutes to arrive at the trailer park, several packs of cigarettes in a plastic bag and their food in another. He'll ease his truck into one of the available parking slots to the right of Eddie's van and hop out to finish the cig he'd been smoking while he waits for the younger man. ]
omw over
[ It takes him maybe 15 minutes to arrive at the trailer park, several packs of cigarettes in a plastic bag and their food in another. He'll ease his truck into one of the available parking slots to the right of Eddie's van and hop out to finish the cig he'd been smoking while he waits for the younger man. ]
[ Eddie doesn't reply to the message once he's given the cue that he's on his way. Anything else at this point can just be talked about in person, and Eddie needs time to consider if that's a possibility.
It is, really. They never really qualified anything as a date, so it's possible someone like Buckley finally pointed out how often they've been hanging around each other. Shit, if that's what happened...
He doesn't get a chance to think much further than that, though, as Josh has arrived, and greasy food sounds like just the right cure for the hangover he is now unfortunately experiencing. He flashes a smile and gives him a quick wave. ]
You coming in or are we eating out of the back of my van again?
[ He can't blame anyone for not wanting to hang around a trailer where there used to be a portal to an alternate dimension, really. ]
It is, really. They never really qualified anything as a date, so it's possible someone like Buckley finally pointed out how often they've been hanging around each other. Shit, if that's what happened...
He doesn't get a chance to think much further than that, though, as Josh has arrived, and greasy food sounds like just the right cure for the hangover he is now unfortunately experiencing. He flashes a smile and gives him a quick wave. ]
You coming in or are we eating out of the back of my van again?
[ He can't blame anyone for not wanting to hang around a trailer where there used to be a portal to an alternate dimension, really. ]
Inside is fine. Here, catch.
[ He tosses Eddie the bag of cigarettes, because tossing the food is just... no. ]
I come bearing sustenance. [ Does he do a courtly bow just to help lighten the mood? Absolutely. Talking about feelings requires a bit of levity after all.
That Eddie's trailer was a portal to another dimension doesn't bother him. While he's not one to want to re-open the thing, he does want to check if there's any residual gunk just to make sure his friend is safe. ]
[ He tosses Eddie the bag of cigarettes, because tossing the food is just... no. ]
I come bearing sustenance. [ Does he do a courtly bow just to help lighten the mood? Absolutely. Talking about feelings requires a bit of levity after all.
That Eddie's trailer was a portal to another dimension doesn't bother him. While he's not one to want to re-open the thing, he does want to check if there's any residual gunk just to make sure his friend is safe. ]
[ Eddie quickly shoots a hand up to catch the cigarettes, waving them around to gesture to Josh to follow him inside. ]
Thanks, man, I owe you.
[ This isn't really what he had envisioned himself doing this afternoon, but it seems a bit more productive than just wallowing in his own misery all day.
Plus, it always helps to have another person to sound off to. There aren't very many people in Hawkins he can even trust to talk about this subject with. ]
Sorry, the place is still kind of a mess. [ When is it not a mess, though?
He leads them to the couch by the coffee table, since they should probably be comfortable while having this kind of a talk. ]
Thanks, man, I owe you.
[ This isn't really what he had envisioned himself doing this afternoon, but it seems a bit more productive than just wallowing in his own misery all day.
Plus, it always helps to have another person to sound off to. There aren't very many people in Hawkins he can even trust to talk about this subject with. ]
Sorry, the place is still kind of a mess. [ When is it not a mess, though?
He leads them to the couch by the coffee table, since they should probably be comfortable while having this kind of a talk. ]
[ Eddie's trailer isn't what he'd call a mess, truth be told. "Lived in" fits better. It's the kind of space that you know actually has the marks of the living—though his gaze does travel towards the ceiling for a bit. Just a bit. ]
You owe me nothing and this is fine. [ Saying that as he sets down the food on the counter of the trailer's little kitchenette. ] Hawkins doesn't strike me as particularly progressive where feelings and human beings are concerned.
You owe me nothing and this is fine. [ Saying that as he sets down the food on the counter of the trailer's little kitchenette. ] Hawkins doesn't strike me as particularly progressive where feelings and human beings are concerned.
[ Eddie is just used to always being in someone's debt. As much as Wayne insist otherwise, he feels like a burden. And then his attempts at passing classes well enough that he can graduate makes him feel like a nuisance. With Josh, he doesn't want to feel as if it looks like he is taking advantage of his kindness and generosity.
Maybe it's just how he was raised, to always be grateful for what he has, because it could be snatched away so quickly. ]
Yeah, well, you'd be right about that. There's a reason I gotta wear a bandana in my pocket. [ Not that being discreet has ever kept the general populace of Hawkins High from speculating on his sexuality. ]
Maybe it's just how he was raised, to always be grateful for what he has, because it could be snatched away so quickly. ]
Yeah, well, you'd be right about that. There's a reason I gotta wear a bandana in my pocket. [ Not that being discreet has ever kept the general populace of Hawkins High from speculating on his sexuality. ]
[ He barks out a laugh. The first time they'd talked was at the Hideout and Corroded Coffin was setting up early to practice their set. The bandanna in Eddie's back pocket had flagged on Josh, but he'd filed it away and forgotten about, at least until he'd dropped by Family Video to return a few tapes.
Eddie and Harrington the Hair had been trading quips about some kid, leaving Buckley to see to him at the counter. ]
Well, you can consider your secret safe with me. [ He gives the younger man a wink and pulls out the burger and fries to hand them over. ] Us... "equal opportunists" need to stick together after all.
Now eat. Hangovers suck and they'll linger until you hydrate and get some grease in your system.
Eddie and Harrington the Hair had been trading quips about some kid, leaving Buckley to see to him at the counter. ]
Well, you can consider your secret safe with me. [ He gives the younger man a wink and pulls out the burger and fries to hand them over. ] Us... "equal opportunists" need to stick together after all.
Now eat. Hangovers suck and they'll linger until you hydrate and get some grease in your system.
[ It's not so often that Eddie has people unaffiliated with Corroded Coffin, Hellfire Club, or the Party that saved Hawkins show up in his life and actually want to stay in it. Whatever Josh's deal was, it didn't clash with any of Eddie's friends, so he had been all too happy to strike up a conversation with him.
And it had been like having an older brother, which...as much as he loved his uncle for everything that he did, sometimes you need someone closer in age to talk this kind of shit over with. ]
Oh thank fuck. [ He takes the burger and fries eagerly and begins to eat, maybe a little more eagerly than usual, but that's probably pretty understandable considering his current hangover situation. ] God, what is it about this food that tastes ten times with a hangover?
[ He tries not to think about the situation, about what Steve might be doing at precisely this moment. Maybe Josh is right and they're really having similar mornings. Or afternoons, considering what time it is. ]
And it had been like having an older brother, which...as much as he loved his uncle for everything that he did, sometimes you need someone closer in age to talk this kind of shit over with. ]
Oh thank fuck. [ He takes the burger and fries eagerly and begins to eat, maybe a little more eagerly than usual, but that's probably pretty understandable considering his current hangover situation. ] God, what is it about this food that tastes ten times with a hangover?
[ He tries not to think about the situation, about what Steve might be doing at precisely this moment. Maybe Josh is right and they're really having similar mornings. Or afternoons, considering what time it is. ]
[ Setting out a particularly thick chocolate milkshake. ]
Might be some ancestral genetic carry-over equating to "the alcohol didn't kill me, so live and eat well".
You're going to need the sugar. [ Is this old hat? Absolutely. Running his own bar meant that he routinely had to check in on hungover friends and regulars looking to drown their woes in whatever was available.
Unwrapping his own burger now and shaking his head as a smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. ] So, just out of curiosity, how did this failed not-date start out?
[ He's not a fan of beating around the bush. ]
Might be some ancestral genetic carry-over equating to "the alcohol didn't kill me, so live and eat well".
You're going to need the sugar. [ Is this old hat? Absolutely. Running his own bar meant that he routinely had to check in on hungover friends and regulars looking to drown their woes in whatever was available.
Unwrapping his own burger now and shaking his head as a smile tugs at the corner of his mouth. ] So, just out of curiosity, how did this failed not-date start out?
[ He's not a fan of beating around the bush. ]
[ Eddie does not need to be told twice and instantly snatches up the milkshake, sipping from it greedily. Already the headache is starting to diminish, and he feels a lot less like his skull is going to crack open from the pressure.
He sighs as he leans back against the couch, tapping his finger, using the ring against the plastic cup to tap out a beat. ]
Right...that. [ He lets out a sigh and as he closes his eyes it turns into more of a groan at the end. ] We've been hanging out more and more lately, smoking together and shit. I don't know, maybe it was just the weed but I really thought he was flirting with me.
What bothers me is that he's the one that asked me out for drinks. So, yeah, I'm just kind of confused right now.
He sighs as he leans back against the couch, tapping his finger, using the ring against the plastic cup to tap out a beat. ]
Right...that. [ He lets out a sigh and as he closes his eyes it turns into more of a groan at the end. ] We've been hanging out more and more lately, smoking together and shit. I don't know, maybe it was just the weed but I really thought he was flirting with me.
What bothers me is that he's the one that asked me out for drinks. So, yeah, I'm just kind of confused right now.
Wait— [ WHAT ] —hold up.
[ He leans forward on the counter, a look of utter disbelief crossing his features. ]
Harrington. Asked you out for drinks. And then didn't show.
[ He's joining Eddie on that couch and tapping out a cigarette. Have a Look, Munson, with matching quirk of his left brow. ]
Now I'm convinced that either something big happened or the boy got cold feet.
[ He leans forward on the counter, a look of utter disbelief crossing his features. ]
Harrington. Asked you out for drinks. And then didn't show.
[ He's joining Eddie on that couch and tapping out a cigarette. Have a Look, Munson, with matching quirk of his left brow. ]
Now I'm convinced that either something big happened or the boy got cold feet.
[ The way Josh reacts to that little bit of information gives Eddie hope that maybe he hasn't been reading this whole situation wrong. Because it is strange, right? That Steve asked him out for drinks and suddenly changed his mind.
But Eddie's traitorous mind thinks that maybe he never meant for it to be construed as a date, and when he realized how it looked, he panicked and didn't show up. Because otherwise, not just reach out and talk about this? ]
Yeah. I don't know, like. It's fine, if he doesn't want to do this [ he gestures with his hand, referring to the whole dating thing ] I just wish he'd tell me so I don't get my hopes up.
But Eddie's traitorous mind thinks that maybe he never meant for it to be construed as a date, and when he realized how it looked, he panicked and didn't show up. Because otherwise, not just reach out and talk about this? ]
Yeah. I don't know, like. It's fine, if he doesn't want to do this [ he gestures with his hand, referring to the whole dating thing ] I just wish he'd tell me so I don't get my hopes up.
Look. [ He sighs. ] Way I see it, Harrington's the kind of guy who grew up around Expectations. That can be rough for anyone.
[ Josh hasn't actually gotten the opportunity to speak to the boy at length, doesn't know his life story. But he's seen the way Steve fusses like a mother hen over the younger kids—it was at the gas station. Henderson and the other young'uns had been spiritedly debating over something or another and Harrington had been watching them with fond exasperation while waiting for the tank to fill.
He'd been refilling his bike, had chuckled when Henderson had bellowed a firm, non-negotiable NO and Harrington had looked his way to shrug his shoulders all kids, what can you do.
Levelling Eddie with another Look. ] But I also know that you don't make assumptions out of nowhere, Ed. So, before you spiral into auto self-rejection mode: why don't you list me the things you and Harrington talked about when you hung out? And also anything that stood out to you.
[ Context. He needs more context. ]
[ Josh hasn't actually gotten the opportunity to speak to the boy at length, doesn't know his life story. But he's seen the way Steve fusses like a mother hen over the younger kids—it was at the gas station. Henderson and the other young'uns had been spiritedly debating over something or another and Harrington had been watching them with fond exasperation while waiting for the tank to fill.
He'd been refilling his bike, had chuckled when Henderson had bellowed a firm, non-negotiable NO and Harrington had looked his way to shrug his shoulders all kids, what can you do.
Levelling Eddie with another Look. ] But I also know that you don't make assumptions out of nowhere, Ed. So, before you spiral into auto self-rejection mode: why don't you list me the things you and Harrington talked about when you hung out? And also anything that stood out to you.
[ Context. He needs more context. ]
[ It is helpful to have that extra bit of perspective. Josh is able to view this from a more neutral position, and can see things that Eddie might not pick up on. Sure, he could wallow in his own misery like he normally does, but Josh might actually be able to help him out here. ]
I don't know, we were talking about music, I remember that. He mentioned listening to Black Sabbath just because I mentioned Ozzy, and that while he doesn't like all of it, he does like some songs.
He, uh. We talked about Dustin, and Hellfire Club for a bit. How much he appreciates me giving the kids a place to just let loose and have fun and not worry about the shitty state of the world. [ By now, he starts to feel like it's harder to breathe, because as he recounts it to Josh, it really does feel like a connection was there. But what was he missing? He must have missed something. ]
He said we should go out for drinks sometime, that we should get to have fun and not worry about the shitty state of the world, too.
I don't know, we were talking about music, I remember that. He mentioned listening to Black Sabbath just because I mentioned Ozzy, and that while he doesn't like all of it, he does like some songs.
He, uh. We talked about Dustin, and Hellfire Club for a bit. How much he appreciates me giving the kids a place to just let loose and have fun and not worry about the shitty state of the world. [ By now, he starts to feel like it's harder to breathe, because as he recounts it to Josh, it really does feel like a connection was there. But what was he missing? He must have missed something. ]
He said we should go out for drinks sometime, that we should get to have fun and not worry about the shitty state of the world, too.
[ He's staring at the ceiling, letting himself be occupied by the weird residual aura he gets from the patched-up spot smack in the middle of it. He noticed it before, even from outside, but it's something he's repeatedly put off because stories are best when they're not entirely pried from unwilling lips.
Ignore the soft thinking sounds he's making as he takes another puff, finishing off the cigarette before he rises to hunt up an ashtray.
Truthfully, he's never been one to force the subject of sexuality to anyone. Everyone has their own timeline. Most folks, unfortunately, don't even get to the point where they can look in the mirror and accept themselves for who they are.
He knows a little of what Harrington's home life might be like—at least, minus absentee parents who are too busy being preoccupied with themselves than actually parenting their child. Because while he hasn't spoken to them in a long, long while, his parents figured him out before he actually did.
Harrington was a good son. Worse, an only son. And the problem with sons who were good or who aspired to be good is that they had the nasty habit of taking responsibility for fucking everything or nothing at all. Steve Harrington, by his estimates, after snooping around and picking up information—had been the former before he flung himself into being the latter. ]
Does Harrington sound like the type to actually not worry about the shitty state of well—anything?
[ He's never told this to Eddie, didn't want to worry hisbrother from another mother, clearly younger friend, but. Harrington had an awful habit of throwing himself in harm's way. Almost as if he was constantly trying to make up for some kind of unforgivable mistake. ]
Ignore the soft thinking sounds he's making as he takes another puff, finishing off the cigarette before he rises to hunt up an ashtray.
Truthfully, he's never been one to force the subject of sexuality to anyone. Everyone has their own timeline. Most folks, unfortunately, don't even get to the point where they can look in the mirror and accept themselves for who they are.
He knows a little of what Harrington's home life might be like—at least, minus absentee parents who are too busy being preoccupied with themselves than actually parenting their child. Because while he hasn't spoken to them in a long, long while, his parents figured him out before he actually did.
Harrington was a good son. Worse, an only son. And the problem with sons who were good or who aspired to be good is that they had the nasty habit of taking responsibility for fucking everything or nothing at all. Steve Harrington, by his estimates, after snooping around and picking up information—had been the former before he flung himself into being the latter. ]
Does Harrington sound like the type to actually not worry about the shitty state of well—anything?
[ He's never told this to Eddie, didn't want to worry his
Edited 2022-09-07 14:50 (UTC)
[ The fact that Josh takes a while to respond to all of that doesn't worry Eddie in the least. He always has been introspective and scarily good at reading people, so he can be as patient as he needs to be if it means getting an insightful response.
And the question that Josh poses does cause him to think for a moment. He hasn't known Steve as long as he wished he had. He knows there are some parts to his past that he hasn't been privy to. Dustin has left little hints, but it's obvious that there are some things that are even too intense for Dustin to share with him.
And it's not like Steve owes him that part of him. They're still pretty new to this whole friendship thing, and while Eddie would love to see even more below the surface, that's the sort of thing that just comes with time and patience. ]
No, I guess not. [ He remembers the way Steve just dove right into the water, putting himself at risk so nobody else would have to. He remembers the way Steve looked when he held a bottle to his throat, as if he had resigned himself to his fate, almost as if he were glad it was him and not one of the others. ]
I guess I just wish he'd let me in, then, you know? [ He buries his face in his hands and rubs at his eyes, feeling his muscles start to ache as all the stress of that whole week in hiding starts coming back to him. ] Not that it's an easy ask, I know. I just...really thought we were getting somewhere.
And the question that Josh poses does cause him to think for a moment. He hasn't known Steve as long as he wished he had. He knows there are some parts to his past that he hasn't been privy to. Dustin has left little hints, but it's obvious that there are some things that are even too intense for Dustin to share with him.
And it's not like Steve owes him that part of him. They're still pretty new to this whole friendship thing, and while Eddie would love to see even more below the surface, that's the sort of thing that just comes with time and patience. ]
No, I guess not. [ He remembers the way Steve just dove right into the water, putting himself at risk so nobody else would have to. He remembers the way Steve looked when he held a bottle to his throat, as if he had resigned himself to his fate, almost as if he were glad it was him and not one of the others. ]
I guess I just wish he'd let me in, then, you know? [ He buries his face in his hands and rubs at his eyes, feeling his muscles start to ache as all the stress of that whole week in hiding starts coming back to him. ] Not that it's an easy ask, I know. I just...really thought we were getting somewhere.
Maybe you were. [ It's hard. Opening up. Especially when you're used to shouldering so much of the burdens with the logic that maybe it means you'll never be one. ] Everyone on their own timeline and whatnot.
[ Settling back beside Eddie at that and taking a bite out of his own burger. ] Have you tried checking in with him since?
[ Settling back beside Eddie at that and taking a bite out of his own burger. ] Have you tried checking in with him since?
[ Josh has always been good at making Eddie think. He appreciates that now more than ever, because he could have very well continued to spiral and convinced himself Steve hates him.
But maybe that's not actually the case. Maybe they just need to talk. ]
I haven't. I guess...I was kind of scared he wouldn't talk to me.
But maybe that's not actually the case. Maybe they just need to talk. ]
I haven't. I guess...I was kind of scared he wouldn't talk to me.
[ Excuse the fact that his eyebrows shoot up. Here, have a look that says, simply: Munson. ]
Think about it this way. [ A pause, while take a long pull from his own milkshake. ] Who's to say that Harrington's equally not freaking out over the fact that you'd be mad at being stood up.
[ Is he an optimist? Hell, yeah. ]
Think about it this way. [ A pause, while take a long pull from his own milkshake. ] Who's to say that Harrington's equally not freaking out over the fact that you'd be mad at being stood up.
[ Is he an optimist? Hell, yeah. ]
[ Well, shit. When Josh puts it that way, Eddie kind of feels like a dick that he jumped to so many conclusions without considering that Steve might have been spiraling, beating himself up over this. It does seem like a very Steve Harrington thing to do. ]
Yeah. Yeah, I guess you have a point. Should I...should I call? Go visit him? I've never...I mean, before him everything I've done has always been mostly, uh physical? As in very little emotional attachment, so I'm not sure what I should be doing at this point...
Yeah. Yeah, I guess you have a point. Should I...should I call? Go visit him? I've never...I mean, before him everything I've done has always been mostly, uh physical? As in very little emotional attachment, so I'm not sure what I should be doing at this point...
Before I offer any advice I have one question: fluffy, I-am-attracted-to-you feelings aside, would you consider Harrington a friend?
[ Because it's important. Because they don't know enough about what's going on in Stevie-boy's head. Josh will always choose to err on the side of "maybe it won't work out romantically, but that doesn't mean it won't work out", but clearly, it's not his feelings on the line, it's Eddie's. ]
Meaning, which is more important—that the feeling is mutual or that Harrington continues to be in your life?
[ Because it's important. Because they don't know enough about what's going on in Stevie-boy's head. Josh will always choose to err on the side of "maybe it won't work out romantically, but that doesn't mean it won't work out", but clearly, it's not his feelings on the line, it's Eddie's. ]
Meaning, which is more important—that the feeling is mutual or that Harrington continues to be in your life?
[ Oh, this question hurts. It hurts because it hadn't even dawned on him that if he doesn't play this right, he could lose Harrington completely. He doesn't know if he could stand a life without Steve in it at all, even if he couldn't be with him the way he wishes he could. ]
Of course he's my friend. I...I won't pretend I'm not crazy about him, in a way that's probably insane, but I don't think I could stand not having him in my life at all.
Of course he's my friend. I...I won't pretend I'm not crazy about him, in a way that's probably insane, but I don't think I could stand not having him in my life at all.
Call him. [ It's both the look on Eddie's face and the way he responds that prompts the words from him. ] Or just, check in. Hell, use Dustin as a go-between if you need to.
[ Because from what he's seen, Harrington and Eddie seem to have this weird, co-parenting gig already in place with the Henderson boy.
He takes a breath, lights up another cigarette. ]
Don't profess your love off the bat— [ Is he saying this to snap Eddie out of the spiral he might be in? Maybe ] —but you know, a quick "your excuse for standing me up better be that a crazy wannabe sorcerer locked you in a glass globe in his basement" can't hurt.
[ Because from what he's seen, Harrington and Eddie seem to have this weird, co-parenting gig already in place with the Henderson boy.
He takes a breath, lights up another cigarette. ]
Don't profess your love off the bat— [ Is he saying this to snap Eddie out of the spiral he might be in? Maybe ] —but you know, a quick "your excuse for standing me up better be that a crazy wannabe sorcerer locked you in a glass globe in his basement" can't hurt.
[ He could use Henderson as a neutral third-party and gather intel. But it feels too impersonal, and Eddie's always been shit when it comes to self preservation. ]
Okay. I'll call. Just to check in, make sure he's okay. And, you know, make damn well sure he knows I'm not okay with being jerked around.
[ As much of a douchebag as Steve used to be, he isn't sure Steve would be that cruel as to play around with Eddie's feelings so callously. So maybe they will get through this, talk this out, find out what all went wrong. Maybe it would all work out.
He has to hope, anyway. ]
You'll be around in case I need a pick me up afterwards, yeah?
Okay. I'll call. Just to check in, make sure he's okay. And, you know, make damn well sure he knows I'm not okay with being jerked around.
[ As much of a douchebag as Steve used to be, he isn't sure Steve would be that cruel as to play around with Eddie's feelings so callously. So maybe they will get through this, talk this out, find out what all went wrong. Maybe it would all work out.
He has to hope, anyway. ]
You'll be around in case I need a pick me up afterwards, yeah?
[ That makes him smile. ] Your next case of beer is on me.
[ Doing that neat trick of exhaling smoke and breathing it back into his nostrils now—don't judge. ]
I know Harrington's aspiring to be the male version of The Lioness Farrah Fawcett, but I don't think the amount of hairspray he uses is capable of impairing his judgement where it concerns friends. Softly now: Seriously though, he probably didn't mean it. Hawkins has freaky spooky energy, so I think that warrants a "maybe he just got caught up with soemething".
[ Doing that neat trick of exhaling smoke and breathing it back into his nostrils now—don't judge. ]
I know Harrington's aspiring to be the male version of The Lioness Farrah Fawcett, but I don't think the amount of hairspray he uses is capable of impairing his judgement where it concerns friends. Softly now: Seriously though, he probably didn't mean it. Hawkins has freaky spooky energy, so I think that warrants a "maybe he just got caught up with soemething".
[ Well, at least Eddie has stopped spiraling. There isn't much to be done until he can talk to Steve, and that's probably not going to happen at least until later tonight. ]
Spooky energy's definitely one way of putting it. [ He had hoped that if trouble ever came back to Hawkins, Eddie would be looped in, that he was part of the party now.
But Steve always did have one of those complexes where he's convinced himself he needs to focus all attention on himself so that everyone else can stay safe. ]
I mean, you're probably right. I'm still gonna torture him about this after the fact, if all goes well though. [ He can't help the small smirk that appears. Assuming it was an honest misunderstanding, he definitely can't let Steve live this one down. ]
Spooky energy's definitely one way of putting it. [ He had hoped that if trouble ever came back to Hawkins, Eddie would be looped in, that he was part of the party now.
But Steve always did have one of those complexes where he's convinced himself he needs to focus all attention on himself so that everyone else can stay safe. ]
I mean, you're probably right. I'm still gonna torture him about this after the fact, if all goes well though. [ He can't help the small smirk that appears. Assuming it was an honest misunderstanding, he definitely can't let Steve live this one down. ]
You do that. [ Chuckling now. ] Get Henderson to take a video if at all possible.
[ Because of course he'd like to be in the peanut gallery watching things unfold.
He's back to staring at the ceiling now; a little tense and braced for the possibility of the plywood getting knocked down by something on the other side. ]
So, Ed. Care to explain to me why that patched-up hole in your roof creeps me a fuck out?
[ He'd never asked before. None of the kids mentioned it beyond vague explanations mumbled under their breaths and he wasn't inclined to pry. ]
[ Because of course he'd like to be in the peanut gallery watching things unfold.
He's back to staring at the ceiling now; a little tense and braced for the possibility of the plywood getting knocked down by something on the other side. ]
So, Ed. Care to explain to me why that patched-up hole in your roof creeps me a fuck out?
[ He'd never asked before. None of the kids mentioned it beyond vague explanations mumbled under their breaths and he wasn't inclined to pry. ]
[ There's a small noise -- something like a snort -- from Eddie as he laughs at Josh's idea to have Dustin document everything. Yeah, that was a surefire way to end up scarring the kid for life.
And then his smile fades as Josh asks about the hole in the ceiling. He has tried to ignore that it's there all this time, because the moment he hones in on it--
White tennis shoes lifting off the ground, Eddie frozen in place as he watches in horror as bone after bone goes CRACK, all culminating on some supernatural force crushing her --
His face pales as he averts his gaze, unable to look at Josh as he speaks. There's still shame there, even though he knows now that there is nothing he could have done.]
You remember how everyone always calls this town cursed? [ He pauses to push himself up onto his feet, pacing nervously just to give him something to do because he knows he's going to be a jittery mess if he stays seated. ]
Right before you got here, there was this...well he was a person at one point. He would get into your mind, use your fears against you, and then kill you to open a rift between this world and the place where he was trapped. The first one just so happened to be right here. [ With a chilling, sardonic grin, he opens his arms to gesture right at the spot where he's standing. ]
Lucky me, right?
And then his smile fades as Josh asks about the hole in the ceiling. He has tried to ignore that it's there all this time, because the moment he hones in on it--
White tennis shoes lifting off the ground, Eddie frozen in place as he watches in horror as bone after bone goes CRACK, all culminating on some supernatural force crushing her --
His face pales as he averts his gaze, unable to look at Josh as he speaks. There's still shame there, even though he knows now that there is nothing he could have done.]
You remember how everyone always calls this town cursed? [ He pauses to push himself up onto his feet, pacing nervously just to give him something to do because he knows he's going to be a jittery mess if he stays seated. ]
Right before you got here, there was this...well he was a person at one point. He would get into your mind, use your fears against you, and then kill you to open a rift between this world and the place where he was trapped. The first one just so happened to be right here. [ With a chilling, sardonic grin, he opens his arms to gesture right at the spot where he's standing. ]
Lucky me, right?
[ He tenses as Eddie explains. There's death in this room. It lingers, even if the plasm has drained away leaving a yawning silence. ]
Who was it?
[ That died here, he means. Because most people would have opted to move somewhere else. Some other place where the memories wouldn't be etched in the walls. ]
Who was it?
[ That died here, he means. Because most people would have opted to move somewhere else. Some other place where the memories wouldn't be etched in the walls. ]
[ Eddie hasn't spoken about this since Vecna was defeated. It had been buried deep within, locked in a box where he swore he would leave it be, rather than process it and find the strength to move on from it. As if he's stuck in a cycle of running, ignoring, pretending. ]
Chrissy Cunningham.
[ His voice cracks as he clenches his eyes shut and draws in a deep breath, letting it out shakily. ]
She just wanted something strong, to help her sleep. She didn't deserve any of it.
Chrissy Cunningham.
[ His voice cracks as he clenches his eyes shut and draws in a deep breath, letting it out shakily. ]
She just wanted something strong, to help her sleep. She didn't deserve any of it.
I'm sorry, man. [ He reaches out, hand coming over the younger man's shoulder to offer an apologetic squeeze. ] We don't have to talk about it, if you'd rather not.
[ He'd like to know. He's glimpsed the scars left on everyone—the kids, Harrington, the girls. Nancy Wheeler has haunted eyes. He's seen that look and he only hopes that one day she'll get the chance to leave this town and come home to set her ghosts to rest. In all the years since he figured out the world was weirder than it should be, it's easier to move past shit if you're young. If the weirdness catches you when you're old enough, it has the bad tendency to leave scars. ]
I'm just here for you, okay?
[ He'd like to know. He's glimpsed the scars left on everyone—the kids, Harrington, the girls. Nancy Wheeler has haunted eyes. He's seen that look and he only hopes that one day she'll get the chance to leave this town and come home to set her ghosts to rest. In all the years since he figured out the world was weirder than it should be, it's easier to move past shit if you're young. If the weirdness catches you when you're old enough, it has the bad tendency to leave scars. ]
I'm just here for you, okay?
[ There's something comforting about Josh in a way that nobody else has managed to help him. He isn't sure if it's because Josh wasn't involved in this business or if there's something else to it, but that squeeze to his shoulder does so much to ground him. ]
I appreciate it, man. Maybe one day it'll be easier to talk about. Just...it still feels like it just happened, you know?
[ He knows he should leave this place behind. He isn't sure what's keeping him here, specifically rooted to this trailer. He could stay in Hawkins, find an apartment, not feel like he's completely abanodoning everything.
Maybe a small part of him feels like he needs to stay, rooted in guilt. ]
I appreciate it, man. Maybe one day it'll be easier to talk about. Just...it still feels like it just happened, you know?
[ He knows he should leave this place behind. He isn't sure what's keeping him here, specifically rooted to this trailer. He could stay in Hawkins, find an apartment, not feel like he's completely abanodoning everything.
Maybe a small part of him feels like he needs to stay, rooted in guilt. ]
When you feel like it. [ Sometimes, he finds that people need permission to go through their grief. People do it. Ghosts do it. Then again, ghosts are just facsimiles of people.
This place will always have that touch of death. If Eddie chooses to stay, he'll have to learn to make peace with it. ] There's no timeline on grief, you know.
[ Tugging a cigarette from his pack and offering it to Eddie. ]
So. Now that you have your action plan for Hawkins' wayward prince, what else is on the agenda?
This place will always have that touch of death. If Eddie chooses to stay, he'll have to learn to make peace with it. ] There's no timeline on grief, you know.
[ Tugging a cigarette from his pack and offering it to Eddie. ]
So. Now that you have your action plan for Hawkins' wayward prince, what else is on the agenda?
[ Eddie gives a curt nod at that. He doesn't know if he'll ever feel like it, but maybe one day he'll open up that box and revisit it. For now, though, he'll let go of the grief, push it out of the way until he's more prepared to dealt with it. ]
Yeah, I know. Just feels like. I don't know, I barely knew the girl. Seems silly to be so messed up by it. [ Then again, it's a very special brand of trauma and grief, combining to make it impossible to move forward.
Hell, maybe that's what contributed to this whole thing with Steve no showing. He takes the offered cigarette and grabs a lighter off the coffee table to light it up. After the the first puff, he glances to Josh and gives a shrug. ]
I dunno, might see about actually getting a job in this hellhole. [ Because if it does work out for him and Steve, then he'll have a reason to stick around Hawkins a little while longer. But he can't just keep selling weed to high school students forever; the money just isn't enough these days. ]
Yeah, I know. Just feels like. I don't know, I barely knew the girl. Seems silly to be so messed up by it. [ Then again, it's a very special brand of trauma and grief, combining to make it impossible to move forward.
Hell, maybe that's what contributed to this whole thing with Steve no showing. He takes the offered cigarette and grabs a lighter off the coffee table to light it up. After the the first puff, he glances to Josh and gives a shrug. ]
I dunno, might see about actually getting a job in this hellhole. [ Because if it does work out for him and Steve, then he'll have a reason to stick around Hawkins a little while longer. But he can't just keep selling weed to high school students forever; the money just isn't enough these days. ]
I swear to God, if one of these tests come up positive for some kind of date rape drug, I will threaten that bartender with reporting them for serving alcohol to minors until they show us security footage of whatever the hell happened to you last night.
I...appreciate your enthusiasm. I really don't
[ He wants to say he doesn't think anything happened, but the truth is he can't remember. He can't even remember how many drinks he had and whether that would have been enough to make him black out that badly. It scares him a little, to think something could have possibly happened to him, that he could have been violated without even knowing it.
Shit. He hopes not. ]
I really don't want that to be the case, but I'll let you check it out anyway.
[ He wants to say he doesn't think anything happened, but the truth is he can't remember. He can't even remember how many drinks he had and whether that would have been enough to make him black out that badly. It scares him a little, to think something could have possibly happened to him, that he could have been violated without even knowing it.
Shit. He hopes not. ]
I really don't want that to be the case, but I'll let you check it out anyway.
How do you put up with all the shit people say about you? They don't even know you.
Right.
When you graduate. It's not going to be the same without you.
When you graduate. It's not going to be the same without you.
I can probably talk Steve into a road trip. He's always talking about camping.
That's me 😇
*I* won't expect you to listen to top 40, don't worry. But I can't wait till you have to deal with Steve's taste in music
*I* won't expect you to listen to top 40, don't worry. But I can't wait till you have to deal with Steve's taste in music
Yes, yes you are. I don't know if this will help but rest assured it will provide entertainment for the rest of us.
Well. For me.
Well. For me.
Exactly.
Also, you could have just asked me to come over, you know?
Also, you could have just asked me to come over, you know?
Well, get used to it! I like being with you, birthday or not.
x
[ It's a good thing phones are durable, because Eddie definitely dropped his phone after opening the image ]
Jesus H. Christ, you sure you meant to send this to me?
[ He doesn't get these kinds of texts from pretty girls. No, he usually gets the angry texts from their boyfriends to stay away from their girlfriends even when he's just talking to them. ]
[ It's a good thing phones are durable, because Eddie definitely dropped his phone after opening the image ]
Jesus H. Christ, you sure you meant to send this to me?
[ He doesn't get these kinds of texts from pretty girls. No, he usually gets the angry texts from their boyfriends to stay away from their girlfriends even when he's just talking to them. ]
that's okay. i'll be optimistic for you.
eddie, it's a pipe dream, remember? you have to dream big. we'll go to la and i'll work as a waitress and make lots of tips and you'll play at a different bar every other night and one day there'll be a record producer in the crowd and he'll be so blown away by your talent that he'll sign you on the spot.
eddie, it's a pipe dream, remember? you have to dream big. we'll go to la and i'll work as a waitress and make lots of tips and you'll play at a different bar every other night and one day there'll be a record producer in the crowd and he'll be so blown away by your talent that he'll sign you on the spot.
[ he figured, but it really never hurts to ask. ]
yes, you do, sir munson.
at the risk of sounding like a jackass, it's very cute how bad you've got it.
[ and then, a quick follow-up: ]
do you want me to drop hints the next time there's an opportunity?
could ferret things out for you.
[ fyi: he's an excellent wingman. ]
yes, you do, sir munson.
at the risk of sounding like a jackass, it's very cute how bad you've got it.
[ and then, a quick follow-up: ]
do you want me to drop hints the next time there's an opportunity?
could ferret things out for you.
[ fyi: he's an excellent wingman. ]
[ there's a small break in response time while eddie groans out his frustrations.
but at least josh isn't torturing him too bad with this. ]
you're lucky you're like family to me.
wait. wait you'd do that?
[ shit, eddie's never had someone willing to do this for him. things had started to feel a bit hopeless there for a second. ]
but at least josh isn't torturing him too bad with this. ]
you're lucky you're like family to me.
wait. wait you'd do that?
[ shit, eddie's never had someone willing to do this for him. things had started to feel a bit hopeless there for a second. ]
x
Yeah, solidarity in dumbness, I guess.
Well, it probably goes without saying but even so? I really like you, too.
[ Between both Steve and Eddie apparently complaining to Robin, she's most definitely going to be happy now that they can both shut up about this whole predicament! ]
Yeah, solidarity in dumbness, I guess.
Well, it probably goes without saying but even so? I really like you, too.
[ Between both Steve and Eddie apparently complaining to Robin, she's most definitely going to be happy now that they can both shut up about this whole predicament! ]
( robin is going to give him such a hard time but honestly, steve deserves this. ) two dumb dudes.
okay. cool.
so... now that we've cleared this up after i made a fucking idiot out of myself. i am not using your near death to get laid? ( unless eddie is involved. which. uh oh. now that they've figured this all out steve has to deal with what comes after which is a boy he likes, likes him back (!!!) and for which he is really unprepared. )
okay. cool.
so... now that we've cleared this up after i made a fucking idiot out of myself. i am not using your near death to get laid? ( unless eddie is involved. which. uh oh. now that they've figured this all out steve has to deal with what comes after which is a boy he likes, likes him back (!!!) and for which he is really unprepared. )
[ a part of eddie thinks he's going to wake up and find out this whole conversation was just a dream, but even he isn't sure his imagination is this good. ]
and thank fucking christ for that. [ oh, if he were bolder and if he weren't so sure steve was about to have a panicked moment over all of this, he probably would have leaned into the innuendo of it all. ] how about we both make fucking idiots out of ourselves. maybe over some drinks?
[ and even after everything that just transpired and he has confirmation, for fuck's sake, the little voice in the back of eddie's head can't help but repeating pleasesayyespleasesayyes ]
and thank fucking christ for that. [ oh, if he were bolder and if he weren't so sure steve was about to have a panicked moment over all of this, he probably would have leaned into the innuendo of it all. ] how about we both make fucking idiots out of ourselves. maybe over some drinks?
[ and even after everything that just transpired and he has confirmation, for fuck's sake, the little voice in the back of eddie's head can't help but repeating pleasesayyespleasesayyes ]
Over drinks? Like a date? ( he just wants to be sure that they're on the same page here because steve's a date guy. he loves dates. well, he likes taking people out on them that he likes and making sure they have a good time. ) Or like drinks at my place because I'd like either of those options.
With you.
Yeah. Drinks is good. ( as he continues to be an idiot. fuck. )
With you.
Yeah. Drinks is good. ( as he continues to be an idiot. fuck. )
Yeah, like a date. [ thus begins the minor freak out while eddie worries yet again he's being too presumptuous. because clearly he is still convinced he is imagining this whole thing and it's not going to feel real until he's in the same room kissing steve. ]
On second thought? Drinks at your place might be better.
Because, like. I'm gonna be honest, it's going to be an absolute shitshow trying to keep my hands to myself in public.
[ honesty is good, right? he's not going to scare steve away...right? ]
On second thought? Drinks at your place might be better.
Because, like. I'm gonna be honest, it's going to be an absolute shitshow trying to keep my hands to myself in public.
[ honesty is good, right? he's not going to scare steve away...right? ]
A date. Okay, it's a date at my place. ( which is fine. steve's used to going out and planning dates, sure, but he actually really likes the idea of something low-key, at home with the person he likes.
with eddie, who happens to be that person. ) Okay, that's fine. I'm not going to be able to keep my hands off of you either? So you don't have to hold back?
[ that's what you do with the person you like. or at least that what steve does, since he's a tactile person in general. he hasn't connected the dots that this will be him doing all the things he's thinking of with eddie in practice, not in theory but that's a not right now steve problem. ]
with eddie, who happens to be that person. ) Okay, that's fine. I'm not going to be able to keep my hands off of you either? So you don't have to hold back?
[ that's what you do with the person you like. or at least that what steve does, since he's a tactile person in general. he hasn't connected the dots that this will be him doing all the things he's thinking of with eddie in practice, not in theory but that's a not right now steve problem. ]
Great, yeah, that sounds great. Can't wait! [ because of course he can't stop rhyming now.
and it's comforting to know they're on the same page. he's used to guys being unsure of themselves the first time they're with another man. so eddie never knows if it's okay to get so handsy their first time together. ]
Good, I'm glad, because I definitely don't want you to keep your hands to yourself. At all.
and it's comforting to know they're on the same page. he's used to guys being unsure of themselves the first time they're with another man. so eddie never knows if it's okay to get so handsy their first time together. ]
Good, I'm glad, because I definitely don't want you to keep your hands to yourself. At all.
At all. Well, for starters I definitely want those hands of yours in my hair.
[ Has he thought about this a lot? Maybe. He's definitely thought about what Steve's hands would feel like yanking at his hair. ]
And those fingers of yours tracing along the lines of my tattoos like they're constellations in the sky.
[ Has he thought about this a lot? Maybe. He's definitely thought about what Steve's hands would feel like yanking at his hair. ]
And those fingers of yours tracing along the lines of my tattoos like they're constellations in the sky.
[ Shit fucking shit goddamn. After everything that happened, the last place Eddie saw himself being was right back in Hawkins after nearly escaping the Upside Down before the four chimes, before absolute chaos ripped the town apart. And even though much of the town was fleeing, having had enough after the catastrophe that was the destruction of the Starcourt Mall, Eddie found he couldn't leave.
Maybe it's just that he had a taste for not running once in his life and now suddenly he's the big goddamn hero. Or more accurately, he's terrified for his friends, for the ones that have no idea of the real terror behind the Vecna killings. Shit, all this time he's been running, he barely had time to stop and think what any of them must have been going through while this whole stupid fucking manhunt was going on.
The good news is that while everyone else's attention is on the giant fucking craters left by the earthquakes, Eddie can roam through Hawkins pretty easily without being caught. Everyone presumes he's dead anyway, though traversing the streets without a car is a bit of a hassle, but on foot he knows he's safer, doesn't have to worry about traffic stops, and sure enough it looks like Gareth's home hasn't been abandoned yet, at least. He knows he looks like shit, feels like shit, but he has to know, he has to at least know Gareth is alright. Just one visit, then he can leave and let everyone else think he's dead.
A knock to the door is probably unwise. What if his parents answer? Yeah, no fucking way in hell did he get this far only to be caught (even though he's sure most of his family likes him well enough, he's not taking any chances) so scaling the roof to get to Gareth's window just makes sense. Eddie is no athlete by any means, but he manages to pull himself up with relative ease and maneuver himself to the window that he knows is Gareth's. Please be home please be home please be home he mumbles to himself as he gives a quick knock to the window and then ducks out of the way, just in case anyone else should be home and walking by his bedroom door. ]
Maybe it's just that he had a taste for not running once in his life and now suddenly he's the big goddamn hero. Or more accurately, he's terrified for his friends, for the ones that have no idea of the real terror behind the Vecna killings. Shit, all this time he's been running, he barely had time to stop and think what any of them must have been going through while this whole stupid fucking manhunt was going on.
The good news is that while everyone else's attention is on the giant fucking craters left by the earthquakes, Eddie can roam through Hawkins pretty easily without being caught. Everyone presumes he's dead anyway, though traversing the streets without a car is a bit of a hassle, but on foot he knows he's safer, doesn't have to worry about traffic stops, and sure enough it looks like Gareth's home hasn't been abandoned yet, at least. He knows he looks like shit, feels like shit, but he has to know, he has to at least know Gareth is alright. Just one visit, then he can leave and let everyone else think he's dead.
A knock to the door is probably unwise. What if his parents answer? Yeah, no fucking way in hell did he get this far only to be caught (even though he's sure most of his family likes him well enough, he's not taking any chances) so scaling the roof to get to Gareth's window just makes sense. Eddie is no athlete by any means, but he manages to pull himself up with relative ease and maneuver himself to the window that he knows is Gareth's. Please be home please be home please be home he mumbles to himself as he gives a quick knock to the window and then ducks out of the way, just in case anyone else should be home and walking by his bedroom door. ]
[ With everything going as south as it had been you would have thought Gareth's family would move, but nope. Trust his mom to be stubborn as always. Refusing to believe Eddie's guilt or Gareth's clubs involvement in anything that had been going on, she called them all a bunch of fanatics and it definitely caused strife with the new Mr.. Of course Gareth didn't believe anything people said about Eddie, he knew the guy. Knew that while he could be intense, Eddie was one of the nicest people he'd ever met.
And now he was gone. So Gareth was grieving in his own way. Hellfire was gone, Corroded Coffin was gone, Eddie was gone and no one knew where. Wayne had come by at least once to try and find out if his nephew had been hiding out with his friend but sadly Gareth had to choke on his words when he told him he hadn't seen Eddie in days. Not since Chrissy died. Of course he let Wayne know that he knew Eddie was innocent, letting the man know he wasn't alone helped a bit but it also just made their little corner of Hawkins that much smaller.
At first Eddie might be able to miss the blaring of metal coming from Gareth's stereo, he'd taken to blasting it to ignore his mom and step dad fighting, however it's hard to miss it when his window suddenly shoots open and the sound of Black Sabath comes pouring out. Gareth had been sitting at his desk under his window sketching out things from Eddie's latest campaign when he heard the knock. He'd heard it before but he swore he was just imagining it.
And he still thinks he is when he doesn't see anyone. ]
Get a hold of yourself Gareth...it was probably just the wind.
And now he was gone. So Gareth was grieving in his own way. Hellfire was gone, Corroded Coffin was gone, Eddie was gone and no one knew where. Wayne had come by at least once to try and find out if his nephew had been hiding out with his friend but sadly Gareth had to choke on his words when he told him he hadn't seen Eddie in days. Not since Chrissy died. Of course he let Wayne know that he knew Eddie was innocent, letting the man know he wasn't alone helped a bit but it also just made their little corner of Hawkins that much smaller.
At first Eddie might be able to miss the blaring of metal coming from Gareth's stereo, he'd taken to blasting it to ignore his mom and step dad fighting, however it's hard to miss it when his window suddenly shoots open and the sound of Black Sabath comes pouring out. Gareth had been sitting at his desk under his window sketching out things from Eddie's latest campaign when he heard the knock. He'd heard it before but he swore he was just imagining it.
And he still thinks he is when he doesn't see anyone. ]
Get a hold of yourself Gareth...it was probably just the wind.
[ Eddie could probably cry right now. Tears of joy because Gareth is okay, and he's listening to Black Sabbath and for a moment he could pretend that the world hadn't been unalterably changed.
A part of him thinks he should leave without being seen. Let Gareth go on living his life. He doesn't need to deal with something like harboring a wanted criminal, even if the town had been convinced he's probably dead. But then if he doesn't seek out Gareth's help, who is going to help him?
Before Gareth has a chance to close the window and go back to sketching, Eddie pops his head up and finds himself face to face with his old friend. He probably looks like shit, considering he came straight here, but that's the least of his worries. ]
Sorry to disappoint, but that was not the wind.
[ He can't help but flash a goofy grin, though his eyes look like they're brimming with tears and, yeah he might actually cry. ]
A part of him thinks he should leave without being seen. Let Gareth go on living his life. He doesn't need to deal with something like harboring a wanted criminal, even if the town had been convinced he's probably dead. But then if he doesn't seek out Gareth's help, who is going to help him?
Before Gareth has a chance to close the window and go back to sketching, Eddie pops his head up and finds himself face to face with his old friend. He probably looks like shit, considering he came straight here, but that's the least of his worries. ]
Sorry to disappoint, but that was not the wind.
[ He can't help but flash a goofy grin, though his eyes look like they're brimming with tears and, yeah he might actually cry. ]
[ Gareth had been through enough shit, even before the earthquakes. The amount of bullshit he had to deal with from the rock for brains jocks and getting roughed up by Jason had him on edge more than usual. So when Eddie popped his head through the window Gareth's immediate reaction was to grab whoever it was, pull them into his room over his desk, and slam them to the ground ready for a fight. However his hand stalls in the air when he sees who it is.
Eddie.
His best friend.
Eddie who had been there for him through his parents divorce, Eddie who was a wanted criminal but had to be innocent. Eddie who wouldn't hurt a fly. His own eyes are wide before he's hauling the other up into a hug, not even questioning why the guy looks like shit or where he'd been. ]
Holy fuck, Eddie. You're really alive? Like seriously?
[ Pulling back Gareth is already looking the other over and taking inventory of Eddie's appearance. ]
Eddie.
His best friend.
Eddie who had been there for him through his parents divorce, Eddie who was a wanted criminal but had to be innocent. Eddie who wouldn't hurt a fly. His own eyes are wide before he's hauling the other up into a hug, not even questioning why the guy looks like shit or where he'd been. ]
Holy fuck, Eddie. You're really alive? Like seriously?
[ Pulling back Gareth is already looking the other over and taking inventory of Eddie's appearance. ]
[ It's entirely possible Eddie had not exactly thought this whole thing through. Of course Gareth would be freaked out by the sudden appearance of someone, even if that someone happened to be Eddie. Right now, there's very good reason to be spooked.
It's like whiplash when Eddie goes from being slammed into the ground to pulled into a hug within the span of several seconds, but he finds himself returning the crushing hug without a second thought. ]
Unfortunately. Though I kinda feel like death. Fuck, man, you wouldn't believe what I've been through.
[ A part of him doesn't want Gareth to know. Not because he doesn't trust him, but because he doesn't want to pull his friend into all of this interdimensional bullshit. It's a bit too late for that, though, because he expects Gareth isn't going to let him crash until he knows what has happened. ]
It's like whiplash when Eddie goes from being slammed into the ground to pulled into a hug within the span of several seconds, but he finds himself returning the crushing hug without a second thought. ]
Unfortunately. Though I kinda feel like death. Fuck, man, you wouldn't believe what I've been through.
[ A part of him doesn't want Gareth to know. Not because he doesn't trust him, but because he doesn't want to pull his friend into all of this interdimensional bullshit. It's a bit too late for that, though, because he expects Gareth isn't going to let him crash until he knows what has happened. ]
Hold that thought yeah? Do you need a first aid kit?
[ After taking a few minutes to breath, relaxing into the familiar presence of his friend, Gareth pulls away. Standing he helps Eddie up and pushes him towards his bed to sit down while he digs around in his stuff. ]
You're a fucking mess, dude. If you wanna find something of mine to wear you can...not that most of it will fit...
I'm gonna grab the first aid kit, just...stay there.
[ He's already heading out to the bathroom, bedroom door shut behind him, before Eddie can even say anything. Gareth is panicked but also relieved. Eddie is alive and well, he's safe for now. The teen has half a mind to call Wayne but then thinks better of it. He's lucky enough that his parents aren't home so no one is there to worry over the ruckus they had made upstairs at first. Or to question why he was grabbing a couple bottles of soda and a box of Twinkies from the cupboard before heading back upstairs to his room. ]
[ After taking a few minutes to breath, relaxing into the familiar presence of his friend, Gareth pulls away. Standing he helps Eddie up and pushes him towards his bed to sit down while he digs around in his stuff. ]
You're a fucking mess, dude. If you wanna find something of mine to wear you can...not that most of it will fit...
I'm gonna grab the first aid kit, just...stay there.
[ He's already heading out to the bathroom, bedroom door shut behind him, before Eddie can even say anything. Gareth is panicked but also relieved. Eddie is alive and well, he's safe for now. The teen has half a mind to call Wayne but then thinks better of it. He's lucky enough that his parents aren't home so no one is there to worry over the ruckus they had made upstairs at first. Or to question why he was grabbing a couple bottles of soda and a box of Twinkies from the cupboard before heading back upstairs to his room. ]
[ Before Eddie can even so much as answer Gareth, his friend is off to find him something to wear, and...oh yeah, his clothes are kind of wrecked. It does register that he should probably be in pain, and maybe it's the adrenaline, or maybe it's the Upside Down messing with his pain tolerance, but he feels strangely fine.
Still, he should probably change into something a little less ripped to shreds. ]
Thanks, yeah, I'd appreciate tha-- and okay, he's gone.
[ He shakes his head with an amused fondness, because damn he had missed this. He had missed Gareth, and Jeff, and jamming in the garage. He had missed bouncing ideas off his friend for his new campaign in vague enough terms that it would still be a surprise when it came to fruition.
He can't help but look around, see if anything has changed about Gareth's room since the last time he was in here, before collapsing onto the bed when realizing that his exhaustion is beginning to creep up on him. The pain, too. Maybe it is a good thing Gareth has gone to get the first aid kit. ]
Just gonna... [ He mumbles to himself as he kicks off his boots so as not to completely ruin Gareth's bedspread with the grime from the Upside Down.
And then unceremoniously, he sprawls across the bed for a brief rest. The clothes can wait, especially since he'll just need to get bandaged up before he can throw new ones on. ]
Still, he should probably change into something a little less ripped to shreds. ]
Thanks, yeah, I'd appreciate tha-- and okay, he's gone.
[ He shakes his head with an amused fondness, because damn he had missed this. He had missed Gareth, and Jeff, and jamming in the garage. He had missed bouncing ideas off his friend for his new campaign in vague enough terms that it would still be a surprise when it came to fruition.
He can't help but look around, see if anything has changed about Gareth's room since the last time he was in here, before collapsing onto the bed when realizing that his exhaustion is beginning to creep up on him. The pain, too. Maybe it is a good thing Gareth has gone to get the first aid kit. ]
Just gonna... [ He mumbles to himself as he kicks off his boots so as not to completely ruin Gareth's bedspread with the grime from the Upside Down.
And then unceremoniously, he sprawls across the bed for a brief rest. The clothes can wait, especially since he'll just need to get bandaged up before he can throw new ones on. ]
[ When Gareth returns with food, drinks, and first aid kit in hand he sets them down before moving over to the bed. ]
Don't die on me, got it? Just got you back.
[ Helping Eddie back up he took in the sight of the torn up jacket and the shreds of cloth beneath it. He couldn't help the quiet awed sort of curse as he moved to help his friend out of it. ]
You look like you got mauled, what the hell man?
[ reaching over he grabbed the first aid kit and began patching up what he could after they had gotten Eddie's top out of the way. Dabbing at obvious open wounds that look like bites...bites that Gareth had never seen before. They didn't look like anything they had in the area, it was weird and certaintly unsettling. ]
Eddie...what the hell took a bite out of you? This doesn't look like a coyote or bear or anything...what the fuck man?
Don't die on me, got it? Just got you back.
[ Helping Eddie back up he took in the sight of the torn up jacket and the shreds of cloth beneath it. He couldn't help the quiet awed sort of curse as he moved to help his friend out of it. ]
You look like you got mauled, what the hell man?
[ reaching over he grabbed the first aid kit and began patching up what he could after they had gotten Eddie's top out of the way. Dabbing at obvious open wounds that look like bites...bites that Gareth had never seen before. They didn't look like anything they had in the area, it was weird and certaintly unsettling. ]
Eddie...what the hell took a bite out of you? This doesn't look like a coyote or bear or anything...what the fuck man?
[ Safe in Gareth's room, this is the first time Eddie has felt like he can fully relax in over a week. The days that it took to get from his re-entrance into Hawkins to Gareth's house, and then before that it was a constant game of cat and mouse, with being accused of murder.
So he doesn't think too much about the fact that his wounds don't really line up with anything from this area, much less this realm. ]
You wouldn't believe me. [ He closes his eyes and draws in a deep breath, but closing his eyes just brings back the flapping of wings, a tendril around his neck, choking him, and he flinches. The mark around his neck looks like he tried to hang himself, which isn't too far from the truth considering the whole thing had felt like a suicide mission that he shouldn't have survived. ]
I wouldn't believe me. Shit's really fucked up. Like seriously fucked up, man. There's another plane of existence underneath Hawkins kind of fucked up.
So he doesn't think too much about the fact that his wounds don't really line up with anything from this area, much less this realm. ]
You wouldn't believe me. [ He closes his eyes and draws in a deep breath, but closing his eyes just brings back the flapping of wings, a tendril around his neck, choking him, and he flinches. The mark around his neck looks like he tried to hang himself, which isn't too far from the truth considering the whole thing had felt like a suicide mission that he shouldn't have survived. ]
I wouldn't believe me. Shit's really fucked up. Like seriously fucked up, man. There's another plane of existence underneath Hawkins kind of fucked up.
Dude, this looks like it's gonna need stitches...I mean I could probably get my moms sewing shit but...
[ He trails off when he hears Eddie talk about....another plane of existence? He sort of gives a humorless laugh and rolls his eyes. ]
Sure you haven't had a bit too much of your own stash trying to fight off the pain? You sound a little delusional there bud.
[ He manages to get the wounds mostly cleaned up and bandaged properly. Thank you boy scouts, he had only been in it because his mother demanded it...but in the end it came in handy so oh well. After he gets that done he looks Eddie over more, eyes falling on the marks on his neck before softening. He can't help but think the worst, can't help but see them and think of a noose around Eddie's throat. He can't help but imagine Jason and his idiots on a witch hunt and lynching his best friend. It makes his eyes sting and he ducks his head to hide the wetness that collects before he grabs the cleaning supplies and sets to work on his friends neck next.
The irregular and random pattern of the wounds on his sides didn't make sense. Not for a mob attack. They really did look like some sort of animal but one that Gareth had never seen before.
But there was no way Eddie was serious right? ]
[ He trails off when he hears Eddie talk about....another plane of existence? He sort of gives a humorless laugh and rolls his eyes. ]
Sure you haven't had a bit too much of your own stash trying to fight off the pain? You sound a little delusional there bud.
[ He manages to get the wounds mostly cleaned up and bandaged properly. Thank you boy scouts, he had only been in it because his mother demanded it...but in the end it came in handy so oh well. After he gets that done he looks Eddie over more, eyes falling on the marks on his neck before softening. He can't help but think the worst, can't help but see them and think of a noose around Eddie's throat. He can't help but imagine Jason and his idiots on a witch hunt and lynching his best friend. It makes his eyes sting and he ducks his head to hide the wetness that collects before he grabs the cleaning supplies and sets to work on his friends neck next.
The irregular and random pattern of the wounds on his sides didn't make sense. Not for a mob attack. They really did look like some sort of animal but one that Gareth had never seen before.
But there was no way Eddie was serious right? ]
[ Yeah, Eddie can't really blame Gareth for thinking that. He knows he sounds crazy. He sounded crazy when he recounted to Steve, Robin, and the rest of the gang what he saw, and he still sounds crazy now, talking about the Upside Down. If he hadn't experienced it himself, he would think he's crazy right now.
He can't blame Gareth for not believing him. He doesn't really have proof beyond the scarring, but at the end of the day, he would rather have Gareth not believe him than have the demobats flooding into the real world. ]
Yeah, no, I haven't smoked for a couple weeks, man. Sad to say I did not get to grab my stash before I went on the run. [ He offers Gareth a sad smile as he lets his friend continue to patch him up. It's when he reaches his neck that he flinches, and disassociates as he finds himself mentally returning back to being torn apart.
It's honestly a miracle he's here right now, and he knows it. ]
Look, you know as well as I do that there are no fault lines. The thing that killed all those people, the ones that they're blaming on me? He's who we have to thank for there being giant craters in the middle of Hawkins.
He can't blame Gareth for not believing him. He doesn't really have proof beyond the scarring, but at the end of the day, he would rather have Gareth not believe him than have the demobats flooding into the real world. ]
Yeah, no, I haven't smoked for a couple weeks, man. Sad to say I did not get to grab my stash before I went on the run. [ He offers Gareth a sad smile as he lets his friend continue to patch him up. It's when he reaches his neck that he flinches, and disassociates as he finds himself mentally returning back to being torn apart.
It's honestly a miracle he's here right now, and he knows it. ]
Look, you know as well as I do that there are no fault lines. The thing that killed all those people, the ones that they're blaming on me? He's who we have to thank for there being giant craters in the middle of Hawkins.
[ Eddie's right, Gareth does know better than all of that. He can't bring himself to be that surprised with what he's hearing. Eddie isn't one to make shit up. Sure he writes whole fantasy epics for his campaigns but he doesn't just make shit like that up to fuck with his friends, especially not when it's so serious like this. So Gareth listens, he sits and patches Eddie up and he listens to what the guy has to say. ]
Okay...so...that's a lot.
[ He finally gets a moment to process and it's hard. His brow is furrowed as his hands fall to rest on Eddie's knees absently. ]
So you're saying there's some weird alternate dimension and something from that other side was killing people and...what...opened like gates or something to that other side and those are the craters that appeared with the earthquakes? Do I have all that right?
[ Standing Gareth sort of ran a hand through his hair and paced a bit. ]
That's a lot of weird to take in, Eds. Even for Hawkins.
Okay...so...that's a lot.
[ He finally gets a moment to process and it's hard. His brow is furrowed as his hands fall to rest on Eddie's knees absently. ]
So you're saying there's some weird alternate dimension and something from that other side was killing people and...what...opened like gates or something to that other side and those are the craters that appeared with the earthquakes? Do I have all that right?
[ Standing Gareth sort of ran a hand through his hair and paced a bit. ]
That's a lot of weird to take in, Eds. Even for Hawkins.
[ As Gareth manages to piece together all the weird shit that Eddie has learned to be true in the past few weeks, Eddie's eyes glaze over as he focuses on the dulling pain. He hopes that it's only dulling because Gareth has been patching him up, and deep in the recesses of his mind he can almost hear a frantic Robin worrying over Steve potentially having rabies.
He supposes that's now something Eddie has to worry about as well. ]
Yeah, trust me, I wish that weren't all true, but. I saw with my own eyes. I saw these people float above me, it's. [ He trails off as he gets a distant look in his eye, the images of Chrissy floating, Patrick floating, and the unnatural way their bodies were manipulated by a seemingly invisible force. ]
I know what I saw. And I know it sounds completely insane, but I really need you to believe me. Because the only other people who do know what's going on think that I'm dead and I need them to continue thinking that.
[ His voice cracks as he speaks, and as he talks about Steve, Dustin, and the rest of the party, he looks right at Gareth with a pleading look, his eyes shimmering with frustrated tears. ]
He supposes that's now something Eddie has to worry about as well. ]
Yeah, trust me, I wish that weren't all true, but. I saw with my own eyes. I saw these people float above me, it's. [ He trails off as he gets a distant look in his eye, the images of Chrissy floating, Patrick floating, and the unnatural way their bodies were manipulated by a seemingly invisible force. ]
I know what I saw. And I know it sounds completely insane, but I really need you to believe me. Because the only other people who do know what's going on think that I'm dead and I need them to continue thinking that.
[ His voice cracks as he speaks, and as he talks about Steve, Dustin, and the rest of the party, he looks right at Gareth with a pleading look, his eyes shimmering with frustrated tears. ]
Woah woah woah, hey, Eddie. It's okay. I believe you, it's weird as shit but of course I believe you.
[ Finishing up what he was doing, Gareth stood and moved to instead sit next to Eddie, a hand on the others shoulder gripping tightly. He's trying to be reassuring, trying to help Eddie know that he was there for him. ]
Why do people need to think you're dead? I mean, do they think you committed the murders? Because fuck them if so.
[ Finishing up what he was doing, Gareth stood and moved to instead sit next to Eddie, a hand on the others shoulder gripping tightly. He's trying to be reassuring, trying to help Eddie know that he was there for him. ]
Why do people need to think you're dead? I mean, do they think you committed the murders? Because fuck them if so.
[ Gareth has always been a damn good friend to him, since the moment they met. He feels bad, that the guy had gotten roughed around all because of him, and now he's asking him to risk so much more just by being here? Harboring a fugitive, like the way he risked Steve's and Dustin's and everyone's lives just by letting them help him.
It's still taking him some time to process that it's okay to let people help them if they want to, that he doesn't have to be on the run, alone. ]
Thank fucking god, because if you didn't... [ Well, he would have probably been able to get the others to convince Gareth, but then that would defeat the whole purpose of trying to pretend he was dead. ]
Jason had the whole town after me, with pitchforks and everything. That's why it's better this way. [ Eddie's voice cracks as he speaks, and he winces at how pathetic it sounds. ]
It's still taking him some time to process that it's okay to let people help them if they want to, that he doesn't have to be on the run, alone. ]
Thank fucking god, because if you didn't... [ Well, he would have probably been able to get the others to convince Gareth, but then that would defeat the whole purpose of trying to pretend he was dead. ]
Jason had the whole town after me, with pitchforks and everything. That's why it's better this way. [ Eddie's voice cracks as he speaks, and he winces at how pathetic it sounds. ]
Yeah about that...
[ Gareth sighed as he shook his head. ]
Jason's one of those people that went missing when the earthquake hit...and I mean...at least here your safe. Mom doesn't think you did it, any of it. Doesn't think you could. Step-dick doesn't get a say in things.
[ Continuing to grip the others shoulder the drummer forces a smile on his lips, more for Eddie's sake than his own. ]
Point is you're safe here, not letting any of those idiots near you. If anyone has a problem they'll have to go through me and the rest of Hellfire. We've always got you back, Eds. But...there are people out there that are worried about you. What about your uncle? Or Henderson? The kid was frantic looking for you.
[ Gareth sighed as he shook his head. ]
Jason's one of those people that went missing when the earthquake hit...and I mean...at least here your safe. Mom doesn't think you did it, any of it. Doesn't think you could. Step-dick doesn't get a say in things.
[ Continuing to grip the others shoulder the drummer forces a smile on his lips, more for Eddie's sake than his own. ]
Point is you're safe here, not letting any of those idiots near you. If anyone has a problem they'll have to go through me and the rest of Hellfire. We've always got you back, Eds. But...there are people out there that are worried about you. What about your uncle? Or Henderson? The kid was frantic looking for you.
[ Eddie had been running for so long, he has almost forgotten what it felt like to have a safe haven. The grip to his shoulder was nice, it grounded him, reassured him that Gareth is here, and that he means what he says.
He takes his opposite arm and places a hand over Gareth's on his shoulder in response, patting it in thanks before curling his fingers around Gareth's and giving it a squeeze. It hits him in that moment, just how tired he really is. ]
Thank you. [ He smiles sadly as he thinks of Dustin, of his uncle. Maybe there isn't any harm in at least letting them know he's alive. ]
If there's a way we can let them know without alerting the whole town, maybe. [ It's probably safer for them not to know, but if the pitchforks were called off after Jason's "disappearance" then maybe there's little to worry about. ] I just don't want them to get caught in any crossfire if people find out I'm alive and want to hunt me down again.
He takes his opposite arm and places a hand over Gareth's on his shoulder in response, patting it in thanks before curling his fingers around Gareth's and giving it a squeeze. It hits him in that moment, just how tired he really is. ]
Thank you. [ He smiles sadly as he thinks of Dustin, of his uncle. Maybe there isn't any harm in at least letting them know he's alive. ]
If there's a way we can let them know without alerting the whole town, maybe. [ It's probably safer for them not to know, but if the pitchforks were called off after Jason's "disappearance" then maybe there's little to worry about. ] I just don't want them to get caught in any crossfire if people find out I'm alive and want to hunt me down again.
I saw Henderson volunteering at the shelter in the gym, I can talk to him. No one will question me talking to him, we're friends.
[ Squeezing Eddie's arm again Gareth let's go and instead grabs for his friends hand. He doesn't really think anything about it as he holds Eddie's hand. There's so much going on right now, being able to touch and know that Eddie is safe is all that Gareth can care about. ]
You look like you might pass out but...do you want something to eat? I brought up some Twinkies and soda...it's not much but I figure a real meal might have to wait until after mom makes dinner and they go to bed.
[ Squeezing Eddie's arm again Gareth let's go and instead grabs for his friends hand. He doesn't really think anything about it as he holds Eddie's hand. There's so much going on right now, being able to touch and know that Eddie is safe is all that Gareth can care about. ]
You look like you might pass out but...do you want something to eat? I brought up some Twinkies and soda...it's not much but I figure a real meal might have to wait until after mom makes dinner and they go to bed.
[ Eddie opens his mouth to reply to Gareth, to thank him for going out of his way by checking in with Dustin, but suddenly he feels Gareth's hand in his and his thoughts just sort of feel like they derail. He isn't sure whether it's just from being touch starved, a general relief at knowing that he's really here, that Gareth is really here, or something else, but he knows that he doesn't want to let go of Gareth's hand anytime soon. ]
Oh, yeah, food would be awesome. [ As if on cue, his stomach started growling, and Eddie smiles sheepishly with a squeeze of Gareth's hand. ] Kind of haven't eaten in, uh, probably days by now.
Oh, yeah, food would be awesome. [ As if on cue, his stomach started growling, and Eddie smiles sheepishly with a squeeze of Gareth's hand. ] Kind of haven't eaten in, uh, probably days by now.
[ Without letting go of Eddie's hand, Gareth grabbed the box of twinkies and soda he handed them over to Eddie with a small smile. ]
Just don't fill up on them, I think mom is making meatloaf tonight. So there will definitely be enough for me to snag you some later.
[ And he wasn't going anywhere until he had to grab them food, something told him his best friend needed him so he was there. Running a thumb over sharp knuckles and cold rings, Gareth waited quietly while Eddie dug into the junk food. ]
Just don't fill up on them, I think mom is making meatloaf tonight. So there will definitely be enough for me to snag you some later.
[ And he wasn't going anywhere until he had to grab them food, something told him his best friend needed him so he was there. Running a thumb over sharp knuckles and cold rings, Gareth waited quietly while Eddie dug into the junk food. ]
[ Maybe Eddie is a little touch-starved. He can definitely admit that much, and so is more than happy to keep a hold of Gareth's hand for this long. But he half-expected to be the one to have to seek out that kind of attention.
He wonders if Gareth is even aware he's doing it. ]
Shit, meatloaf? Definitely have to save some room for that, then.
[ Considering the mostly "real" last meal he had was Spaghetti-O's out of a can, he will eat just about anything at this point. Still, he gives Gareth's hand a squeeze as a sign that he's teasing at least a little before he started in on a twinkie.
And shit, once he starts, it's hard to eat politely. He hadn't realized how ravenous he's been feeling until now, and practically shoves the rest of the pastry into his mouth. ]
Sorry, you are definitely not seeing me at my best. [ He doesn't have a free hand to pull his hair in front of his face and hide behind, so the blush he's currently sporting is on full display. ]
He wonders if Gareth is even aware he's doing it. ]
Shit, meatloaf? Definitely have to save some room for that, then.
[ Considering the mostly "real" last meal he had was Spaghetti-O's out of a can, he will eat just about anything at this point. Still, he gives Gareth's hand a squeeze as a sign that he's teasing at least a little before he started in on a twinkie.
And shit, once he starts, it's hard to eat politely. He hadn't realized how ravenous he's been feeling until now, and practically shoves the rest of the pastry into his mouth. ]
Sorry, you are definitely not seeing me at my best. [ He doesn't have a free hand to pull his hair in front of his face and hide behind, so the blush he's currently sporting is on full display. ]
[ Gareth sits and watches as the other devours the pastries, a soft look passing over his features as he sighs. ]
Eds, don't worry about it, okay? You know you don't gotta pretend around me.
[ Instead of judging the other, Gareth just snags one of the yellow confections for himself and sips at his soda.
If he looks conflicted it's because he is. On one hand he wants to tell his mom that Eddie is there so that he can just bring the other up something to eat without having to eat downstairs, he wants to make sure the other gets what he needs instead of letting him devour a bunch of empty calories and sugar. But at the same time he knows he can't, not yet. Not with how much of a dick his stepdad is and not with Eddie still wanted for murder. ]
Just don't make yourself sick, yeah?
Eds, don't worry about it, okay? You know you don't gotta pretend around me.
[ Instead of judging the other, Gareth just snags one of the yellow confections for himself and sips at his soda.
If he looks conflicted it's because he is. On one hand he wants to tell his mom that Eddie is there so that he can just bring the other up something to eat without having to eat downstairs, he wants to make sure the other gets what he needs instead of letting him devour a bunch of empty calories and sugar. But at the same time he knows he can't, not yet. Not with how much of a dick his stepdad is and not with Eddie still wanted for murder. ]
Just don't make yourself sick, yeah?
[ That just makes Eddie pause, and he puts the Twinkie down so he can really get a better look at Gareth, and at their joined hands. It's the nickname Eds, the hand holding, the deep concern.
He's not even sure Gareth realizes he's doing any of this, tells himself it's just because he thought he'd lost Eddie and needs that connection, to make sure Eddie really is here, alive. ]
Yeah, wouldn't that be terrible, survive demonic bats only to die by processed sugar. [ He shoots Gareth a sly smile before eating the rest of the pastry, a little more slowly this time so as not to give himself too much of a sugar rush. ]
He's not even sure Gareth realizes he's doing any of this, tells himself it's just because he thought he'd lost Eddie and needs that connection, to make sure Eddie really is here, alive. ]
Yeah, wouldn't that be terrible, survive demonic bats only to die by processed sugar. [ He shoots Gareth a sly smile before eating the rest of the pastry, a little more slowly this time so as not to give himself too much of a sugar rush. ]
Dude, you're not gonna die because of processed sugar.
[ Rolling his eyes with a quiet laugh Gareth pulled his hand back after a bit, finally satisfied that the other wasn't going anywhere, and meandered over to his shelf of terrariums. Specifically turning off his 'day lights' before checking the pump on one with a water fixture before moving back to his desk to clean up the mess he had made pulling Eddie through the window.
When he heard his mom call from downstairs he froze, eyes darting to Eddie before calling back that he'd be right down. ]
Stay here, I'll bring up some food as soon as I can. I'll just...I'll tell her I'm not feeling up to being at the table....with things the way they are she's been pretty cool about it.
[ Rolling his eyes with a quiet laugh Gareth pulled his hand back after a bit, finally satisfied that the other wasn't going anywhere, and meandered over to his shelf of terrariums. Specifically turning off his 'day lights' before checking the pump on one with a water fixture before moving back to his desk to clean up the mess he had made pulling Eddie through the window.
When he heard his mom call from downstairs he froze, eyes darting to Eddie before calling back that he'd be right down. ]
Stay here, I'll bring up some food as soon as I can. I'll just...I'll tell her I'm not feeling up to being at the table....with things the way they are she's been pretty cool about it.
Hey, you never know, [ Eddie replies with a wild grin, which fades slightly as he thinks of all the things that could, in fact kill him, and almost did. But he is still standing, and that has to count for something, right?
He can't help but watch as Gareth starts inspecting his terrariums. It's something so painfully normal, which Eddie needs right now. He needs a distraction from the reality that's lurking just outside, in the cracks that have effectively carved up Hawkins and gave Vecna a way into their world.
It's only a matter of time.
He's jolted out of his spiraling thoughts by Gareth's mom calling him down for dinner. He frowns with a nod. ]
Yeah, no, of course. Just. [ He's not sure why he even wants to tell Gareth to be careful. It's just going down to dinner, making up an excuse to bring food up for Eddie. It's not like there's the danger of the Upside Down, or that he's going to ruin his relationship with his family by harboring a fugitive or anything.
Shit, he needs to stop panicking before he does something stupid like try to slip out of Gareth's house while he's still clearly healing. ]
Come back soon, yeah?
He can't help but watch as Gareth starts inspecting his terrariums. It's something so painfully normal, which Eddie needs right now. He needs a distraction from the reality that's lurking just outside, in the cracks that have effectively carved up Hawkins and gave Vecna a way into their world.
It's only a matter of time.
He's jolted out of his spiraling thoughts by Gareth's mom calling him down for dinner. He frowns with a nod. ]
Yeah, no, of course. Just. [ He's not sure why he even wants to tell Gareth to be careful. It's just going down to dinner, making up an excuse to bring food up for Eddie. It's not like there's the danger of the Upside Down, or that he's going to ruin his relationship with his family by harboring a fugitive or anything.
Shit, he needs to stop panicking before he does something stupid like try to slip out of Gareth's house while he's still clearly healing. ]
Come back soon, yeah?
Huh? Oh yeah, no worries. I'll be back as soon as I can.
[ Giving Eddie a reassuring smile, Gareth dipped out the door and headed down for dinner. It took a bit of convincing but before long he was able to talk his mom into letting him take his dinner upstairs. He hated lying to her but with his stepdad in the house he really couldn't tell her that Eddie was in fact alive and well and hiding out in his bedroom. Instead he waited until she was sitting down and grabbed his plate, adding more meatloaf and mashed potatoes, siting that he was really hungry, and slid an extra fork up his sleeve before heading back up. ]
Tadaa~
[ Stepping in and closing the door, Gareth made his way over holding out the extra fork as he set the plate down and plopped down on the other side of it from Eddie to start digging in. ]
[ Giving Eddie a reassuring smile, Gareth dipped out the door and headed down for dinner. It took a bit of convincing but before long he was able to talk his mom into letting him take his dinner upstairs. He hated lying to her but with his stepdad in the house he really couldn't tell her that Eddie was in fact alive and well and hiding out in his bedroom. Instead he waited until she was sitting down and grabbed his plate, adding more meatloaf and mashed potatoes, siting that he was really hungry, and slid an extra fork up his sleeve before heading back up. ]
Tadaa~
[ Stepping in and closing the door, Gareth made his way over holding out the extra fork as he set the plate down and plopped down on the other side of it from Eddie to start digging in. ]
[ Even though the thought does occur to him to slip out while Gareth is occupied, he couldn't do that to his friend. He had just revealed to Gareth that he's alive, and confided in him what really happened, he couldn't saddle him with all this pressure and then disappear. Not only would that not be fair, it wouldn't remove Gareth from any danger.
He should probably have thought of the possible consequences of dragging Gareth into this before he decided to bother him in the first place.
Before he could think any further, though, Gareth reappears, and a small smile creeps across Eddie's face as he accepts the fork and tries his best to eat at least somewhat slowly. ]
Your mom still makes the best damn meals.
[ Which isn't a surprise, given that Eddie doesn't have much to compare it to. Wayne usually works nights, so he prepares his own meals, usually from a can. Before he lived with Wayne, his mom died when he was young, and his dad hardly tried to cook, usually supplying him with TV dinners. So, more often than not, Gareth's mom was the one who made sure he was eating somewhat healthy. ]
I'd say give her my regards, but, well...
He should probably have thought of the possible consequences of dragging Gareth into this before he decided to bother him in the first place.
Before he could think any further, though, Gareth reappears, and a small smile creeps across Eddie's face as he accepts the fork and tries his best to eat at least somewhat slowly. ]
Your mom still makes the best damn meals.
[ Which isn't a surprise, given that Eddie doesn't have much to compare it to. Wayne usually works nights, so he prepares his own meals, usually from a can. Before he lived with Wayne, his mom died when he was young, and his dad hardly tried to cook, usually supplying him with TV dinners. So, more often than not, Gareth's mom was the one who made sure he was eating somewhat healthy. ]
I'd say give her my regards, but, well...
I mean, you've told her enough in the past.
[ Smiling Gareth just shrugged. It was nice to know that his friend was eating, something he always feels better about. He'd always blame his mom for why Eddie got sent home with food or invited over for dinner when part of it was him. He worried and wanted his best friend to have something more than canned foods or tv dinners. ]
You can tell her once we figure all this bullshit out. Because fuck those guys, my best friend isn't a killer.
[ It's said with the confidence of someone who knows that without a doubt he's right. There's no way Eddie could hurt a fly in real life. He may be able to absolutely decimate them in dnd but that was different. ]
[ Smiling Gareth just shrugged. It was nice to know that his friend was eating, something he always feels better about. He'd always blame his mom for why Eddie got sent home with food or invited over for dinner when part of it was him. He worried and wanted his best friend to have something more than canned foods or tv dinners. ]
You can tell her once we figure all this bullshit out. Because fuck those guys, my best friend isn't a killer.
[ It's said with the confidence of someone who knows that without a doubt he's right. There's no way Eddie could hurt a fly in real life. He may be able to absolutely decimate them in dnd but that was different. ]
[ Eddie shrugs right back, but he can't help the tiniest hint of a smile that worms its way onto his face. He's missed this, the light bantering, the hanging out and just dicking around. It's almost enough to let him forget what had brought him onto Gareth's doorstep in the first place.
His smile turns into a much more visible frown, although he does appreciate Gareth's vote of confidence. ]
I will. [ He has his doubts that the court of public opinion will ever change, though. The truth is too impossible to explain. It's much easier for everyone to believe he's a vessel for Satan than to accept that there's a psychic serial killer on the loose that's determined to make his way back into Hawkins. ] Though, to be perfectly honest? I'm not sure I'm gonna be sticking around much longer after all of this is sorted out.
[ He always did have plans to leave Hawkins behind, even before he had been accused of being a murderer. He just wish leaving Hawkins behind didn't also mean leaving everyone else. ]
His smile turns into a much more visible frown, although he does appreciate Gareth's vote of confidence. ]
I will. [ He has his doubts that the court of public opinion will ever change, though. The truth is too impossible to explain. It's much easier for everyone to believe he's a vessel for Satan than to accept that there's a psychic serial killer on the loose that's determined to make his way back into Hawkins. ] Though, to be perfectly honest? I'm not sure I'm gonna be sticking around much longer after all of this is sorted out.
[ He always did have plans to leave Hawkins behind, even before he had been accused of being a murderer. He just wish leaving Hawkins behind didn't also mean leaving everyone else. ]
Y-yeah?
[ Gareth will just blame the mouthful of food for the way he stumbles on his words. Eddie doesn't need to know how his words make Gareth's heart sink. He knew it was going to happen eventually. He knew that Eddie would graduate and be out of Hawkins, he just hoped it happened at the same time as him so they could go together.
This was different though, this wasn't graduation...this was Eddie going on the run. ]
Indianapolis? I mean I know we always talked about you getting a place out there.
[ He pointedly ignores the slight shake to his hand and instead shovels more meatloaf into his mouth before downing more soda. ]
[ Gareth will just blame the mouthful of food for the way he stumbles on his words. Eddie doesn't need to know how his words make Gareth's heart sink. He knew it was going to happen eventually. He knew that Eddie would graduate and be out of Hawkins, he just hoped it happened at the same time as him so they could go together.
This was different though, this wasn't graduation...this was Eddie going on the run. ]
Indianapolis? I mean I know we always talked about you getting a place out there.
[ He pointedly ignores the slight shake to his hand and instead shovels more meatloaf into his mouth before downing more soda. ]
[ It doesn't escape Eddie's notice the way Gareth reacted. He kind of expected it, after all. He doesn't like the idea of leaving the rest of the band, the rest of Hellfire behind, but he knows even if his name gets cleared, he wouldn't be able to look at Hawkins the same again.
The way everyone rallied to the cause of tracking him down, that's just not something he's ever going to forget. ]
Yeah, or maybe even further. If I can wrangle enough cash together.
[ He's not sure how he's going to make this work without finishing high school, but it's not like he'd survive the rest of high school. He wouldn't trust his teachers not to fail him again simply because of what happened, too. ]
But, um. Let's take it one step at a time, yeah?
[ Because there's no point in looking that far ahead when there's no guarantee Eddie will even be able to get his name cleared. And if he doesn't, then he's going to have to tread very carefully to get the hell out of Hawkins without being caught. ]
The way everyone rallied to the cause of tracking him down, that's just not something he's ever going to forget. ]
Yeah, or maybe even further. If I can wrangle enough cash together.
[ He's not sure how he's going to make this work without finishing high school, but it's not like he'd survive the rest of high school. He wouldn't trust his teachers not to fail him again simply because of what happened, too. ]
But, um. Let's take it one step at a time, yeah?
[ Because there's no point in looking that far ahead when there's no guarantee Eddie will even be able to get his name cleared. And if he doesn't, then he's going to have to tread very carefully to get the hell out of Hawkins without being caught. ]
[ Of course Eddie of all people would pick up on the fact that Gareth wasn't happy about everything.]
Right, I mean sure.
[ Gareth sets about finishing his portion of the food and his soda before he finally says something again. Cleaning off his fork to set on his bedside table before scooting back to rest against his pillow, pulling his knees up to his chest, he stared at Eddie for a bit. ]
So...what's the plan from here? I wanna help, Eddie. And don't sit there and tell me I can't because I'll be damned if I'm not allowed to help my best friend escape an angry mob of idiots.
Right, I mean sure.
[ Gareth sets about finishing his portion of the food and his soda before he finally says something again. Cleaning off his fork to set on his bedside table before scooting back to rest against his pillow, pulling his knees up to his chest, he stared at Eddie for a bit. ]
So...what's the plan from here? I wanna help, Eddie. And don't sit there and tell me I can't because I'll be damned if I'm not allowed to help my best friend escape an angry mob of idiots.
[ Even after all he's been through, Eddie still has known Gareth for way too long to not pick up on that. He wishes he could reassure Gareth that he'll still stay in touch, but he doesn't even know if he can promise that.
A part of him just wants to disappear, become nothing more than a memory. While the other part just wants everything to go back to normal, so he can go back to pretending he didn't just almost die in an alternate dimension. ]
I don't know. [ His voice sounds strained. He doesn't want to put Gareth in any more danger than he already has; it had already been bad enough, the damage Jason Carver did while seeking out Eddie and Dustin. ] If we can get a message to Henderson..
[ But even that feels like it's risking a lot. Dustin is awful at keeping his mouth shut, and even worse at lying convincingly. He can't put all of that on the poor kid. ] Or, I don't know. Think you could get to Buckley or Harrington?
[ This was a bad idea. A really, terribly bad idea. But at least he can count on Steve to keep his mouth shut, and to drive him out of town safely. And Robin, he feels a surprising amount of kinship with, after everything. If nothing else, they deserve to know he's still alive...right? ]
A part of him just wants to disappear, become nothing more than a memory. While the other part just wants everything to go back to normal, so he can go back to pretending he didn't just almost die in an alternate dimension. ]
I don't know. [ His voice sounds strained. He doesn't want to put Gareth in any more danger than he already has; it had already been bad enough, the damage Jason Carver did while seeking out Eddie and Dustin. ] If we can get a message to Henderson..
[ But even that feels like it's risking a lot. Dustin is awful at keeping his mouth shut, and even worse at lying convincingly. He can't put all of that on the poor kid. ] Or, I don't know. Think you could get to Buckley or Harrington?
[ This was a bad idea. A really, terribly bad idea. But at least he can count on Steve to keep his mouth shut, and to drive him out of town safely. And Robin, he feels a surprising amount of kinship with, after everything. If nothing else, they deserve to know he's still alive...right? ]
I mean...
[ Gareth sighs a bit as he leans back and looks at the ceiling. He could easily get ahold of Henderson, he had the guys number. Harrington and Buckley might be a bit harder, granted he could go to the video store and use that as a cover? Might work so long as Keith wasn't there. ]
I can try at least? I've got Henderson's number so I can call him but I'd have to like...go to Family Video or something to talk to Harrington or Buckley.
[ Picking at his sleep pants Gareth thought on it more before snapping. ]
Or I could look them up in the phonebook. There's no way the Harrington's aren't in there.
[ Gareth sighs a bit as he leans back and looks at the ceiling. He could easily get ahold of Henderson, he had the guys number. Harrington and Buckley might be a bit harder, granted he could go to the video store and use that as a cover? Might work so long as Keith wasn't there. ]
I can try at least? I've got Henderson's number so I can call him but I'd have to like...go to Family Video or something to talk to Harrington or Buckley.
[ Picking at his sleep pants Gareth thought on it more before snapping. ]
Or I could look them up in the phonebook. There's no way the Harrington's aren't in there.
[ It's risky, but Eddie is pretty sure Harrington's parents aren't home. He doesn't trust that the phones aren't being listened into somehow, but maybe they can get to him in person? ]
No phones. Coded messages only. Though Henderson's probably smart enough to get the idea, not sure about Harrington.
[ He frowns at the mention of Family Video. It would figure that life would go on as usual despite the fact that the town is broken. Eddie can't help but wonder if Robin and Steve even felt the weight of Eddie's supposed death at all. ]
I'd, um. I'd like to see them in person, if we can get a hold of any of them. It might be stupid and dangerous, but I don't care. The world might end fucking tomorrow, anyway.
No phones. Coded messages only. Though Henderson's probably smart enough to get the idea, not sure about Harrington.
[ He frowns at the mention of Family Video. It would figure that life would go on as usual despite the fact that the town is broken. Eddie can't help but wonder if Robin and Steve even felt the weight of Eddie's supposed death at all. ]
I'd, um. I'd like to see them in person, if we can get a hold of any of them. It might be stupid and dangerous, but I don't care. The world might end fucking tomorrow, anyway.
Seriously Eddie? Okay I can see about getting them over maybe? I'll call Dustin tomorrow and tell him to bring Harrington and Buckley over?
[ Looking confused Gareth just sighed and shook his head. ]
This shit is weird, Eds...and you are so not going to waltz right into fucking Family Video when you're still wanted. They are like...lynch mob mentality here with you. I'm still surprised the rest of us haven't been targeted.
[ Looking confused Gareth just sighed and shook his head. ]
This shit is weird, Eds...and you are so not going to waltz right into fucking Family Video when you're still wanted. They are like...lynch mob mentality here with you. I'm still surprised the rest of us haven't been targeted.
( Eddie raises an eyebrow at Gareth's response and deflates a little bit, curling in on himself. He had hoped that with him being assumed dead the town might have backed off a little, but he supposes if it turns out he's alive after everything, the town would be right back to wanting to hang him. )
I'm just a scapegoat. It's, uh. Jason's fault that you all were targeted in the first place. Without him leading the mob I guess it's a little harder to stomach targeting kids.
( He shrugs, just looking tired more than anything else. )
But fine, I'll stay hidden until we can figure all of this out.
I'm just a scapegoat. It's, uh. Jason's fault that you all were targeted in the first place. Without him leading the mob I guess it's a little harder to stomach targeting kids.
( He shrugs, just looking tired more than anything else. )
But fine, I'll stay hidden until we can figure all of this out.
Yeah well, that still leaves you vulnerable.
[ Shaking his head Gareth just watches the other before nodding again. ]
For now just rest up, like I said I'll take care of it. You can lie low here, either up here or in the garage. Hell we might be able to make you a crash pad in the crawl space above the garage. No one goes up there because it just has a bunch of dads stuff he left here.
[ Shaking his head Gareth just watches the other before nodding again. ]
For now just rest up, like I said I'll take care of it. You can lie low here, either up here or in the garage. Hell we might be able to make you a crash pad in the crawl space above the garage. No one goes up there because it just has a bunch of dads stuff he left here.
Change of plans: Don't come over.
Parents came home.
Parents came home.
But if I leave, who is my father going to lecture about their life choices?
The usual, man. I've been at Family Video for all this time and haven't started my own franchise yet. Or, I don't know, become CEO.
Clearly I'm just slacking off.
Clearly I'm just slacking off.
For all the good that did me. Honestly, I probably would have been better off trying again another year with you.
Oh, wait. Cool. We're moving on. Now I am a disappointment for letting Nancy go. He's really pent up, I guess.
Maybe he should come home more often and spread it out.
Oh, wait. Cool. We're moving on. Now I am a disappointment for letting Nancy go. He's really pent up, I guess.
Maybe he should come home more often and spread it out.
Company in hell wouldn't have been so bad. But hey, getting working experience isn't so bad.
Listen, it's probably...there's probably something else going on, you shouldn't pay it much mind.
[ Eddie knows he's lucky with Wayne. But before when he was still living with his parents, he remembers screaming matches of his own. It's part of the reason why he ran away to Wayen's in the first place. ]
Listen, it's probably...there's probably something else going on, you shouldn't pay it much mind.
[ Eddie knows he's lucky with Wayne. But before when he was still living with his parents, he remembers screaming matches of his own. It's part of the reason why he ran away to Wayen's in the first place. ]
[Eddie is probably right. Steve knows he's probably right. But that doesn't help make the moment feel any better.]
You know. Maybe I changed my mind and you should come over, after all.
You know. Maybe I changed my mind and you should come over, after all.
[ Eddie just kind of blinks down at the screen for a moment. ]
Are you sure? Your dad's not gonna give me shit is he?
[ He hasn't actually met the guy, but the way Steve talks about him, he isn't exactly jumping at the occasion. But he also wants to be there for Steve. He shouldn't have to deal with this alone. ]
I'll come, just...give me five minutes to grab some things.
[ Just in case this goes south and Steve needs to get out of there quickly. ]
Are you sure? Your dad's not gonna give me shit is he?
[ He hasn't actually met the guy, but the way Steve talks about him, he isn't exactly jumping at the occasion. But he also wants to be there for Steve. He shouldn't have to deal with this alone. ]
I'll come, just...give me five minutes to grab some things.
[ Just in case this goes south and Steve needs to get out of there quickly. ]
I'd like to see him try.
But no. He'll probably give me shit about another weird friend and why I'm not with Tommy H anymore, but he's too concerned with appearance to insult a guest.
If he tries, I'll take care of it.
But no. He'll probably give me shit about another weird friend and why I'm not with Tommy H anymore, but he's too concerned with appearance to insult a guest.
If he tries, I'll take care of it.
So I can't run away to the circus?
You ruin all the fun.
You ruin all the fun.
You know that just gives me incentive to bribe your teachers into flunking you.
What if you say you stick around as long as I do? Or take me along on the world tour?
Just because it's not my idea of good music doesn't mean that other people aren't gonna eat it up.
And you're good, man. Really good. Way too good for it to be wasted.
And you're good, man. Really good. Way too good for it to be wasted.
You're not so bad yourself. I'd probably trade your body in for some of that expensive caviar shit that needs ivory spoons.
Or like. The world's best burger. Probably would be just as expensive but that I'd actually want to eat.
Or like. The world's best burger. Probably would be just as expensive but that I'd actually want to eat.
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