Archive of Our Own

25th April 1980 Black Sabbath released Heaven and Hell, recorded October 1979, a classic and a favourite. He picked the cassette up as soon as it came into stores. He’s 14 years old when he listens to it for the first time. It’s completely the opposite of what everyone’s always expects of him, just like he himself is. He’s a failure. But maybe that’s not so bad anymore.

20th June 1983, The Trooper by Iron Maiden is released, it’s supposedly based on some poem from school about Light Brigades, but he couldn’t care less. He listened to it on repeat until he knew it verbatim.

There’s a special place in his heart for this music, it’s not his absolute favourite, but it’s special, reserved for those off days. When he wants to block out all the sound, or distract himself from another one of those awful panic moments where he can’t stop shaking, and feeling like death.

November 6th 1983, Will goes missing.

Steve wasn’t pulled in until a couple days later. November 8th, Barbara dies.

Steve throws it all out, every lie about himself. He realises he has to reevaluate his life, and the way he treats people.

He only wore the polos for his dad, he’s clearly not coming back, so he can be free now. He’s unshackled from shithead judging peers. But also… he still needs colour. After it all, it’s soothing, to dress bright and listen to Tears for Fears and Wham!

Even some Michal Jackson.

But sometimes, everything just gets a bit much. Stress builds and he can’t even breathe right and there’s too much sound, and Steve puts on the old deafening metal music he used to love.

At the start it was a reserve, for when he was awful. But after a few years of the Upside Down, and meeting Robin, it’s become a personal thing. He hasn’t told her, even though they know everything about each other, this one is just for him.

Rebelling against his dad from miles away, not that he’ll even ever know.

And he kind of loves the music now, how it takes him out of his body for a bit, and he can pretend to be normal.

It’s not like it’s his favourite or anything, after all, ABBA, is secured safely in its spot for “best band” and unlikely to move.

And not like it’s exactly difficult to keep quiet, it’s not like any of his friends ever have or ever will make comments about Metallica.

All his friends are making comments about Metallic.

To be clear, it’s not actually why Steve first disliked Eddie, he’s never going to admit that he hated how close him and Dustin were, or that Mike idolised the guy and calls him a badass when Steve repeatedly saves that shithead (not that Steve deserves kindness or feels he’s owed it)… and looking back now, with this new knowledge he’s obtained about how he currently feels about Eddie, he’s thinking maybe Mike had some sort of similar (but less intense) feeling… but that’s neither here nor there.

He unfortunately knows Max (and according to Lucas’ odd comments, maybe him too) have had one of those childhood crushes on Steve, it’s a little weird, but to be honest, he sort of had one on Hopper so let’s just not go there.

Not a “I want to date you” crush, just a “you’re kinda hot” crush. Steve wouldn’t be surprised if Mike had one of those on Eddie.

But that’s not his current point. The point is that now effectively everybody he is around daily are making metal comments. And Steve’s not trying to hide it exactly (except yes he completely is), it’s just, it doesn’t fit his aesthetic, not really. And it’s personal.

Although truly, if he was braver, he’d admit it so he can have a reason to talk (and flirt) with Eddie.

And maybe he would, say something, if he felt he even had a shot. He has a sneaking suspicion Eddies gay… who are we kidding? That fucking hankerchief leaves almost nothing up to the imagination (yes Robbie told him once he figured out that liking guys and girls is a thing he can do) and if it isn’t torture. But he knows, even liking metal music, he doesn’t have a shot. He’s not Eddies type, and the shit he cares about, like Osbourne biting a literal bats head off, he didn’t care much about, Steve never really cared for the culture of metal music.

What does kind of suck is Steve is pretty sure Eddie would love someone to actually understand his metal references, which Steve does (and sometimes makes comments in his head), since Dustin always laughs at the wrong point during Eddies jokes, and Mike always has to have every comment explained to him.

But hell, that’d just get him deeper into the friend zone. Which Steve respects, but fuck he does not want with Eddie. It hurts, like a pathetic sting, when he throws his arm around Steve’s shoulder, or smiles at a joke Steve made. He can’t let himself get to close. This one’s starting to hurt more than Nancy, and it hasn’t even really begun yet.

“So basically, Ronnie James Dio took over Black Sabbath in 1979, from Ozzy Osbourne, but then quit 1982, and then formed his own band.”

Mike and Dustin are looking on starry eyed. Max is rolling her eyes, but clearly a little invested, and next to her is El, who’s chatting with Lucas about something quietly. Will is just watching from the corner of his eye, he’s sat on the floor besides Erica, and they’re chatting and laughing together. Makes sense, Steve always got the impression that they’re both really sassy, Will’s just more quiet about it.

Steve suspects Will is less interested in the story, and more in Eddie himself. Despite what people say, Steve sees a lot, and he’s good at reading people. How else would he have become King Steve (to be clear, he’s not proud of his old title). He’d better give them some privacy later. All the kids are here at the moment, it was some DnD thing tonight, but they finished early for the first time ever and are questioning Eddie now.

Ugh, Steve wishes the campaigns weren’t in Mike Wheelers basement, but the kids seem to feel at home, and the ones that don’t play like to chill by the side and watch. Steve arrived to pick up Dustin, Lucas and Erica. Eddie is taking Max, Will and El home.

Steve wishes Robin were here… although she’d totally be bullying him by now, or worse, winking extremely unsubtly and giving Steve away.

“So who was the better singer then?”

Mikes not actually paying as much attention as Steve thought, now he truly looks, his eyes keep shooting back to Will… maybe Steve needs to have a subtle and gentle talk with the kid while he insults him (very badly… as in it never really hurts, Mike needs better insults).

“Better lead you mean? Well a decade ago, Ozzy set the stage for a lot of metal nowadays, and had a crazy psycho side to his voice I preferred, however people often say Ronnie was a better vocalist. Although we can’t forget the real hero is Tony Iommi, the guitar player. All this said, Ozzy really was the signature of the band, and it wasn’t the same without him.”

Steve can’t help the scoff he lets out. Ozzy was important sure, but Tony finally had an actual songwriter to help him once Dio joined, and he could actually harmonise with the guitar, due to his aformentioned better vocalist talents.

“Oh my apologies, is my musical education below the standard that the king demands?” Back when they first met that comment would’ve been riddled with anger and dripping with sarcasm, now it’s just a joke with a smile. Steve likes his smile.

“I’m demanding nothing dude, just don’t get why you’re so invested in this Ozzy bat dude.”

He kind of enjoys the emotions that run through Eddies face before he settles on vaguely calm… which is unnerving.

“To be honest Stevie, I don’t actually know. There are rumours that those guys are genuinely crazy, but hell there are those same rumours about me. I guarantee he’ll have done some fucked up shit while destroying himself, but I guess I just like the idea that underneath what everyone assumes about him, he can be his authentic, confident self.“

Huh, that’s actually quite poetic. Not that odd for Eddie though.

“Ha, can’t upstage that one can you Harrington?” Ok Wheeler why? Why did he feel the need to say that? Steve takes satisfaction in seeing Will shoot Mike a dirty look, and him blush and look away ashamed.

“What the hell Wheeler? Me and Stevie are having a nice conversation.”

Mike just rolls his eyes,

“Fine whatever. But still. Like you know shit about Ozzy and Dio. Bet you don’t even understand how the bands were formed, huh you idiot?”

Ok, maybe Steve was wrong, his insults are still awful, but they kind of hurt.

Steve assumes Mike means that he wouldn’t understand what order the bands were formed, and how Dio was first in Black Sabbath and then formed his own band, but the “idiot” comment hits him a little too close to home, and he feels his inner petty bitch rising. And that’s his excuse for why he does something a little stupid,

“Understand Mini-Wheeler? I understand more than you do, who needs to ask a lot of questions after everything Eddie says. I understand that Ronnie Dio was clearly the better leader, he actually wrote songs, helping Iomma, and could harmonise with the guitars, unlike Ozzy’s screeching, which made Tony’s guitar stand out more. I understand that Master of Puppets was released this year and performed James Hetfield, not Dio like you keep saying and Eddie feels too bad to correct you, and co wrote the song with drummer Ulrich. And that the part of the song he played was performed by Kirk Hammett. But the first solo in the song was performed by the lead, James, despite him being the rhythm guitarist.”

Steve wasn’t exactly assertive when he decided to be a bit of a dick anymore. He didn’t like to look in their eyes when he embarrassed them, it reminded him of King Steve. He’s honestly a lot nicer than he wants to be, wants to mock Mike a little, call him the idiot. Steve hates himself, but he doesn’t think he deserves Mikes bullshit. Nancys bullshit. All the Wheelers fucking bullshit.

When Steve does look up though, he gets a very embarrassed Mike Wheeler (nice) and very shocked everybody else.

And a blushing Eddie. Interesting.

Oh crap… he just gave himself away.

“At least that’s what Robbie says. She talks so much I guess i’ve just started listening.”

Max and Eddie don’t believe him. Wheelers quick to laugh at him, Lucas and El weren’t paying attention. Erica, also probably knows that was a lie, but she clearly also doesn’t care at all. So that’s nice. Dustin’s just sat in silence… he usually calls out Steve’s lies, except he clearly thinks it too ridiculous that Steve would actually know this stuff.

Oh and Will, he’s just smiling to himself, like he knew Steve knew everything from the start. Not that surprising really, that kids smart as hell. Steve decides to give him a subtle smile back, to which he seems to laugh to himself a little.

And then before anyone can say anything else-

“BOYS! Oh and girls too now. Times up. Let’s go.”

Karen Wheeler to the rescue.

They all get up and head out, Steve still getting some weird looks. He does his usual, goes to the kitchen, says goodbye to Ms Wheeler, thanks her for letting him come by, makes civilised conversation. Gives Holly a hug, she should totally be in bed by now but she always stays up when her brother is awake.

Steve always kind of wanted a little sister, so while the others yell and spend five minutes arguing with Karen, Steve chills with Holly. If Teds there, he’ll make conversation.

“Hey Steve.”

Oh Jonathon. Huh.

Steve doesn’t feel the rush of jealousy anymore, it’s nice. He’s learnt that love feels different with every person. He knows he did love Nance, and he will always care for her (platonically) but he’s deeply satisfied knowing that he’s over her. And if she ever asked him out again (which let’s face it, she won’t) he could happily, and easily, say no.

“Hey Jonathon,” They don’t need any hard feelings anymore, waste of time.

“Have a good night?”

He sees the doubt on Jonathan’s face,

“Hey look, for whatever it’s worth dude, I was an asshole, I get it, and i’m sorry. I’ll always hate what I called you… it was awful and i’ll never do it again, so i’m sorry, on my side we’re cool. I know she cheated on me with you. She told me. It sucked, but i’m over it, and over her. Take your time dude, but don’t worry, i’m only here with Baby Wheeler cause she’s adorable and still nice to me, not cause i’m tryna take your girlfriend or upstage you.”

Steve goes back to playing with Holly. He gets it, he beat up Jonathon and said something awful, and was a shit boyfriend to his current girlfriend.

“Actually we’re broken up. Amenable, but still. And don’t worry about it man, I did do some fucked up stuff too. The photo of Nance wasn’t cool. It was weird. And the new camera, she didn’t say it was from you, but I appreciated it, I learnt my lesson. Don’t worry about the fight, taught you some stuff I guess, to kick that Russians butt last year huh? As for… the word. Not cool but I know you’ve changed. Plus I did cheat with your girlfriend, so yeah, my bad dude. I’m sorry too. I’d be happy to be friends.”

Steve’s glad they’ve had this conversation. He never held much against Jonathon, not for anything really except that photo of Nance. Hell he hated that more than the cheating, he knows now Jonathon was just feeling like an outsider, but it still felt… wrong.

And he’s not that surprised about the Jonathon and Nancy thing, they weren't totally compatible either. She is compatible with a certain friend of Steves though…

Jonathon and him exchange one last smile before going to leave,

“Oh hey, erm, El and Will are in Eddies van, if you don’t wanna walk home, i’m sure he wouldn’t mind giving you a lift… of course that’s assuming you’re leaving.”

Jonathon steps outside and he can hear him yelling to the van.

“Hey Eddie! Can you come here a sec?” Eddie jumps outta his van, telling the kids to pay attention, and walks up to the door. Steve’s curiosity peaks and he leaves nice baby Wheeler to figure out what’s going on.

“So I took my car Eddie, so if it’s alright, I’m gonna take Dustin, El and Will and maybe you can take Max, Lucas and Erica? Steve can’t take anyone anymore, he’s gonna stay for a bit.”

What?

“I am?”

“Yeah dude. Talk to Nance. You two have to smooth things over. Now seems… right. Go on. Don’t worry, I promise i’m not high, I can drive the kids.”

He makes a good point. Steve watches as he goes upstairs one last time. He’s probably telling Nancy that Steve’s still here. Knowing they’ve broken up, but Jonathon seems so happy still, hurts just a little.

Honestly it’s most likely her idea that they need to talk. So he makes Johnathon promise that he’s definitely completely sober, before sending the kids off with him.

Eddie stays back for a second though, probably to question Steve.

“Staying behind, under Jonathan’s order too, odd?” Yep that feels like a question.

“Yeah, I guess so, see you around dude.”

Eddie smirks to himself, and then seems to turn to leave, but pauses for a second before he does,

“Mmm, don’t think we don’t have an upcoming conversation about how you know anything at all about metal bands, i’m watching you sweetheart, I know Robin doesn’t know anything about it, so that was a bad excuse love.”

The pet names will kill him one day.

As soon as Eddies left, Steve feels himself deflate a little.

This isn’t gonna be fun.

He sits down, trying to decide if he has to go up or if she’ll come down here to him.

“Come on Hols, bed time, if you get lots of beauty sleep, you can do anything tomorrow.”

“Beauty sleep? Does it make me look pretty?”

She’s frowning a little as she says it, Steve can’t have that.

“So you feel pretty. So you can achieve anything and everything you want. It’s short for beautiful sleep. It’s beautiful because it gives you the energy to achieve your dreams.”

That was cheesy even for Steve, but it worked, cause she’s walking up to Karen and making her put her to bed. She smiles and winks at him,

“Thanks, I’ll grab you Nance.”

And yet Steve only gets approximately 2 seconds of peace before,

“You’re still here. Really? After copying Robins words, embarrassing yourself, and pining over my sister. You’re still here? It’s pathetic Steve.”

This kid is such a pain. It’s so weird, he’s always been so nice and kind and protective to some, and a downright asshole to others.

But fuck, if he hasn’t been through a lot. Poor him. Losing his best friend, who then got possessed, and then the best friend moved away, then, oh shit he’s in love with him in the 80s… Yeah Steve knows. Not that Will (with all his staring at Wheeler) has noticed it’s requited.

“Wheeler. I’m not here to try and date your sister, i’m over that. Just to talk. Can’t you leave me alone, I don’t have the energy for you right now.”

Ok that sounds bad, but honestly he’s exhausted of being called stupid all day. He gets it, his dad is right, he’ll never amount to anything, his life is worthless and he’s a waste of space.

He didn’t even call to check to see if Steve was alive after the earthquake.

But Steve sees it anyway, despite the exhaustion. He sees the flinch. Makes sense in a way, he probably sounds like Ted Wheeler right now.

“Crap ok. Kid look. I’m going to say a bunch of things you need to hear, and then instead of commenting on it, you’re gonna leave, and dwell on it in private, and in public we’ll just pretend this never happened ok.” Steve knows he’s about to take a massive risk, but he kind of feels he needs to, for this kid. He needs someone.

“You are not too much, i’m just fed up of you insulting me all day. Oh and you need better insults, they only hurt me cause that’s what my dad used to say before he stopped caring entirely. You can spend as much time with whoever you want, even if people judge you for it. You’re allowed to hurt people, that happens, it’s natural, as long as you learn to acknowledge your mistakes, apologise and grow, and not hit them where it hurts… and… it’s ok… to be… not what’s expected of you. It’s ok to be interested in someone you’re told you’re not allowed to be. It’s even ok, to be both. To like the normal, and the different. To like the easy and the hard. It’s ok to be different. A lot more people than you might think are different too.”

He knows he can’t outright say it, but he hopes he’s sent the right message. Plus the kids speechless for once so that’s nice.

“Right well that’s all, I have to go have a talk with your sister about how we’re totally different people, and I was an asshole to her, and I was always her second choice, and all that… bullshit. Night Wheeler. Oh and, talk to me, or at least someone, people help kid.”

Mike just sort of ponders up the stairs, Steve tried his best to imply that he can like El, and then like Will. Steve didn’t believe it at first either.

“That was sweet.”

Nance.

Great.

“Thanks.”

Yeah this is gonna be awkward.

“Look-“

“I just-“

Yep.

Steve doesn’t usually start their conversation, but he wants it lead this one, doesn’t want Nance to demand things from him like he’s too dumb to come up with it on his own.

“You know I’m gonna need you to apologise-“

“Nance. Stop.”

He didn’t yell, he’s not trying to be rude, just clear. God this is already making his head hurt.

“I sucked. I know. I’m awful and shit. But i’m not so dumb that I haven’t realised that, okay? I didn’t listen to you when you said you wanted to be alone, I wrote awful graffiti about you, I didn’t ask about Jonathan and just jumped to conclusions, I gossiped about our relationship and let Carol and Tommy spread rumours about you. But you know what? It’s not all on me, alright?”

Steve’s been working on not hating himself, Robins making him.

“I defended you against Jonathon, and you acted like him taking pictures of you in underwear at someone else’s house wasn’t creepy, and yeah my asshole actions to him after were unjustified, but that Nance, I deserved back up on.”

“I don’t trust easy, you know that, I told you that, and you still told me you loved me knowing that was a lie, you got with me even though I was your second choice, cheated on me with Jonathan and repeatedly called me idiot. I told you I hated it, you took that as a joke. Then you called me bullshit and blamed us for Barbs death. What, you think I hadn’t thought about it? You think I didn’t have the emotional capability to consider that, huh? I killed her. If I was even slightly more considerate, she’d still be alive.”

“I protect those kids with my life, I make them clear and cover every drop of blood, nobodies gone in my pool since it happened. Why do you think all of that is?”

“You blamed me for it all. You blamed me for the fact that you didn’t love me. We’re different Nance, we were never gonna work. It doesn’t excuse the shit I did, but I hope it puts it in perspective for you, because i’m pretty fucking sick of little Wheeler and the kids and the adults all thinking I ruined us.”

“Everything ruined us. But Nance, that’s you too. Who lied to me, repeatedly, cheated on me, stayed with me when I was the second choice, never had my back, called me stupid, then bullshit, and then acted like I wasn’t feeling the weight of a girls death hanging on my shoulders. We are different, I solved my problems under parties, it’s been working since I was 11, it didn’t mean I didn’t care. So don’t just blame me please. Because I am sorry, i’ve said it once and i’ll say it again. And you have never said it to me before. I tried to apologise when you said you didn’t love me . But i’m over you. Truly, I am, if you asked me, which I know you won’t, to date you again, i’d say no. But that doesn’t change the fact that this, all this that you did, hurt. And you have yet to acknowledge that.”

…

That’s probably the most Steve has ever spoken at once. Maybe he’s gaining Eddies theatrics.

“Steve…” He can hear the heartbreak in her voice, he’s not even looking, he can’t bare to,

“I’m so sorry. I never picked the right moments, I never thought about you in the situation, I tried to teach you things you already knew so i’d feel smarter. You aren’t stupid Steve, and you’re so caring. And I know you’re over me. I could hear it slipping from your voice in your imaginary future you tried to grip to in the upside down. I could see the way you’ve stopped caring, and it hurt, because I wanted to feel wanted, as I always have, because i’m a little selfish. And i’m sorry. And I forgive you, yeah you did a lot of shitting things, but I did too. Reckon we should give each other time to heal. But Steve, for whatever it’s worth, you were a good boyfriend.”

“And a good lesson. I think I was better to Jonathon, and definitely better at ending it with him, because I learnt from when I hurt you.”

“Honestly? I didn’t love you. Not because you’re bad, you weren’t perfect but you cared, and you’re sweet, but because I didn’t want to be trapped, and I saw that future with you.”

So he was holding her back… and she decided to, what? Put up with him anyway?

Nancys a goddess, he has no doubt she’ll be running something famous and tough in the future, but her greatest strength is also her greatest weakness, she’s unwavering. She doesn’t move for anyone. Which means she pushes down people that are trying to support her on her fight to the top.

“Goodnight Nance.”

Well that was certainly a long evening. He slept pretty well though. It was nice, to get it all of his chest.

He spent a hour or two just driving around before going home, to the empty house. To the pool. It was soothing. He stopped of by the Quarry at one point, played screaming loud music and curled into a ball until he could breathe again.

But crap, now he’s gonna be late to picking up Eddie and Max. Some arcade thing. Everyone else already has lifts, but Wayne said he was gonna meddle and fix something in Eddies van today, so he said he’d pick him and Mayfield up.

He and Robbie have plans, it is a Saturday, she did have a thing with Vickie but she cancelled, she’s being weird apparently. But that’s not until the evening.

He’s pulling up five minutes later than planned in the end, but neither are ready yet anyway.

“I don’t have all day!”

Steve goes to fiddle with his music, but then he remembers, crap, he left the Slayer tape from last night in the car. Shit. Eddie always tries to play music in his car. Steve goes to grab and remove it, but before he can get it any further than his hands, Eddies appearing.

So Steve shoves the tape under his seat, and pulls himself out the car, just to see… Eddie fucking Munson in a crop top. Because why wouldn’t the universe want to embarrass Steve today?

“Hey man.” Steve’s nodding. And still nodding. God why is he still nodding? Why did he even start nodding? Stop nodding. “How’s…” What was the end of the question going to be? Fuck this is going awfully and he’s said literally only three words.

“You good there darling?”

Eddies smirking like he knows everything running through Steve’s ridiculous mind. And those stupid fucking nicknames never fail to make his brain short-circuit.

“Oh just… great. Waiting for Max.”

Oh really? Not like that blatantly obvious. But instead of getting mocked, Eddie just leans into his space with that same fucking smug smile, as if he knows that his stupid fucking jeans in hot weather, with the hankie and the handcuffs are messing with Steve’s head, as if he knows the Slayer cut off is some sort of evil taught, revealing a strip of skin that Steve just wants to wrap his arms around, with the scars from the battle carried with pride.

“So then, how’d it go last night at the Wheelers? I tried to stop Mini Wheels from being a dick, but he’s pretty good at it.”

“Stuff with Mike was alright. He was a bit of a dick, I talked to him about some stuff and then sent him to think, we’ll see how he feels depending on how he’s acts towards me I guess. As for Nance… we got all our shit out in the air, and I guess we’ll be getting somewhere. It was nice actually, i’ve always thought myself a shit boyfriend for her, but thinking back, I know we were both awful to each other. It’s nice not to have something be entirely my fault for once.”

Like his dad always says.

“That’s… good Stevie. You know, I wasn’t trying to pressure you into getting back with her, back in hell, I just thought… she clearly still cared, that’s all.”

Steve always thinks back on that moment when Eddie was flirting with him. It’s common for him, so it’s not like Steve thinks he’s special. He just, deep down, knows Eddie doesn’t feel the same. He’s just not his type. Anyone’s type really.

“Hey Eds, it’s not your fault, you didn’t know. And that’s the thing, she did. But i’ll never be her first choice, which might’ve hurt to know back then, but now, i’m not bothered, she’s not my first choice anymore either. Or even any choice. I’m not doing that one again, I don’t want to.”

At least better try and reassure the guy. If he has a shot at all, he’d better know that Steve’s completely over Nancy.

“Over her then? Good for you love. Now come on, Max has been stood in her window watching this conversation almost since it started.”

Eddie matches straight past him, grabbing Steve’s arm as he goes, and gestures to Max to come outside.

“Come on Red, stop snooping.”

Snooping on what? Wait, were they having a moment? Ugh Steve hates how many doubts he has around Eddie. But he also kind of loves how at ease he feels…

“Yeah yeah whatever. Let’s go, I want to crush Mike Wheeler with my bare hands. Oh and Steve do tell the gang where you learnt that metal shit from last night? Who taught you the power of knowledge?”

Yeah she noticed.

“Ha. Knowledge... Sure. To be clear, you were totally wrong. Ozzy is supreme.”

Oh not this again. But before he can even decided whether he should give himself away by arguing back,

“What’s on the floor of the car Stevie?”

Shit. The tape. It feels almost comical as Steve panics, eyes shooting to and from Eddie and all around the car before he swiftly grabs it, chucks it out the window, and starts driving.

“Steve! Damn I wasn’t ready, what the hell did you just throw out the window? Eddie, do you know what that was?”

Eddie turns to him, giving him a look Steve doesn’t have time to decipher before he has to watch the road again.

“Not a clue Red. I’ll find out though, don’t worry, Steve will admit all eventually.”

Fuck, for Eddie he absolutely would.

Except no, he’s not giving away his secrets just to be made fun of.

Luckily the drive isn’t very long, and Steve’s long since learnt if he stays silent, the conversation steers away from him, and to something completely different.

“We’re here. You’re welcome.”

Max is quick to jump out of the car.

“Hey Red, Jonathon and Nance are in there with the party right?” As soon as Eddie gets a nod,

“Perfect then i’m not coming in. I’m borrowing Steve for a bit, going back to the scene of the crime to find out what he threw out the window, all that.”

Wait what? No. That’s not good (ok but honestly more time with a stunning Eddie in a crop top and sinful smirk on his face can’t be anything but perfect).

Oh but then he’ll know.

Is this good or bad?

Not that Steves opinion matters, there’s clearly no place for his thoughts here (and Eddie and his control totally isn’t weirdly hot) because before he can even say anything, Max is gone.

“You don’t mind, right pretty boy? Robbie said you’re hanging later, but you have spare time for little old me, don’t you?”

All the time in the world...

But Steve doesn’t say what he thinks. Ever. So instead he just drives, but not back to Eddies, to his. Cover his secrets.

“I got a loads of movies inside dude. I’m sure Robs wouldn’t mind if you stayed when she came by later anyway, wants to gossip about her girlfriend I think.”

Eddie knows. Apparently Robin and him did a very weird mind reading thing as soon as the chaos was over, with some oddly coded sentences until Eddie started gossiping about his first crush.

Neither Robin or Eddie will tell Steve who that was though, so it’s got to be someone more embarrassing than Tammy Thompson… somehow. All he knows is that it was some jock in the year below him, but then his year when he got held back the first time. So probably in Steve’s year. It better fucking not be Tommy.

Robin then very kindly told Eddie she accidentally outed him to Steve (like she would ever) to cover for why she told Steve about the hanker-chief. He kept that lie up for quite a short amount of time before deciding to just admit to Eddie that he knows because he’s Bi.

He thought saying it out loud would be hard, admitting it to someone other than Robbie. And it was. But it also felt freeing.

It was all a bit hectic, but now they’re out of the jungle, their little gang is nice.

“Stevie, darling, sweetheart, love, baby, no. Absolutely not. You’re taking me back to my trailer, and we’re picking up that Judas Priest tape I saw you chuck out the window. Breaking the Law right? I like that one. And yeah, I saw the name.”

Fucking hell this is torture.

He’s calling him a hundred million pet names.

Baby.

And being all commanding.

Fuck. Steve wants to crawl into a hole and hide… or maybe park the car and fall to his knees.

“Okay fine.”

Because he’s fucking gone for this guy.

They do the drive in relative silence, but it’s not awkward like silent drives usually are, in fact it’s oddly peaceful.

When Steve pulls up back at Eddies trailer, he considers running over the tape, but he’s pretty sure Eddie knows what it was.

It was Judas Priest. It was ‘Breaking the Law’, so what’s the point in lying. At least this way he’ll get his tape back.

“Wow, Steve Harrington the golden boy listens to Judas Priest, I half thought earlier was a hallucination.”

There’s a joke in his voice somewhere, but mostly he just sounds tired. Steve isn’t sure why, maybe he was just using this as an excuse to get to go back home.

“Stevie, be honest with me here, do I not know about your… music choices cause you didn’t want to have more reasons to talk to little old me. I’m not offended, I get that i’m a lot for people to deal with, all my energy you know.”

No. Steve does not know. All his energy? His energy is fucking perfect, he’s kinda crazy but in the best way, and Steve can be himself around him, he’s loud but also peaceful. And he makes everyone around him smile, and he’s so cheerful.

He understands the kids and helps them have the childhood they’ve missed out on, opened up to Will, helped him feel more comfortable as himself.

He’s literally perfect. He’s just so sweet.

“Alright Steve no need to stand in silence trying to think of something nice to say, don’t worry, i’ll go inside now.”

But Eddies also so pretty, liking boys is weird, it’s not exactly new, but realising it was actually crushes all these years and not jealousy, that’s new. But now he’s noticing it more. The outfits, those handcuffs, the smug smile and flirty jokes. The desire to just fucking- Ok that’s not the point. Crap Steve’s spacing out again. It happens when you’ve got a history of life threatening concussions, dangerous fights and literal demon bats strangling you.

“Huh, you’re not even listening are you? You know, I know nothing about you. We hang out, and watch movies, but you never talk about yourself. Do you hate me that much?” Shit Eddie sounds angry.

Should’ve been listening Harrington.

“Your parents never seem to be home, i’m guessing you hide when they are so they don’t find out about the company you keep? I don’t think you’re King Steve, but you’re certainly… not being great. You clearly don’t care about me at all if you don’t even tell me basic information about yourself.”

This isn’t what Steve wants. Fuck, but now he’ll have to be honest. Eddie about to slam the door in his face, damn Steve didn’t even notice them move away from the car. But he’s got quick reflexes, so he shoves in through the door, and for just a second he sees a little fear on Eddies face. Like he thinks maybe Steve about to beat him up for what he said.

That hurts.

“Black Sabbath.”

Might as well start with honesty.

“The first one I listened to, Ozzy was the lead. My dad had some work colleges around, their son was all gothy and dark and stuff. My clothes could never have been dark, my dad only had me wearing polos. I guess I got used to it, didn’t care to change it. He… got mad once, when I threw a really tacky one out. God he’d have hated my Scoops Ahoy costume, it was navy blue with a dumb red neckerchief thing, weirdly short shorts and stupidly long socks that went all up my legs, I had to roll them down so they didn’t look ridiculous.”

Eddies eyes widened a little at this, probably imagining how stupid Steve looked. Note to self, don’t tell the guy you kinda (desperately) want to date that your clothes are stupid and your old job is stupid.

“Man he never could’ve caught me in that. But hell, after Upside down 2.0 and Billy giving me a Grade 4 concussion and a bunch of other shitty injury’s while i tried to protect the kids, the hospital told them. Called them and listed every injury, said I was lucky to be alive. And I was. They didn’t come home. After that, I knew they never would again.”

“All that said, I felt I couldn’t wear black after the upside down anyway, so it’s not like I ever fit the culture of metal music.

I was 19 when it happened for the third time and I met Rob in my stupid outfit at Scoops Ahoy. I’d actually originally gotten a better job by my fathers influence over the phone, but it didn’t feel… right. I had to wear a suit, but I hate ties. The black clothes made me feel fancier than I am. And as soon as I got there, they all acted like they were better than everyone else. Were awful to the security staff. I probably could’ve done the job, looked easy enough, even for me, it was sort of sociable sales person type of thing, but I botched the interview cause I hated the idea of getting it. Still ended up in sails though. Sorry that was a bad Scoops Ahoy joke.”

Don’t do puns around hot boys Steve Harrington, come on.

“Back to the point, i’ve been listening to it since I was 10. It was a way to rebel, except I knew my dad could never actually know I was listening to it. I just liked the idea that something I was doing made him mad, since nothing ever did. Eventually nothing was ever enough and he stopped coming home.”

“So yeah, it’s nothing against you Ed’s, nobody knows much about my home life. Hell, I tell Robbie everything and even she doesn’t know. I mean she knows it’s bad, but she hasn’t succeeded in making me talk about it yet. I probably should though. Man I wanted to have another reason to talk to you so bad. I wanted to tell you that i’m not everything you think I am, that I know your music, and I thought you kicked ass on the guitar, and that I recognised that you changed the song up a bit, real dramatic by the way.”

But…

“But… I am what you think I am Eddie. I’m not special, I don’t wear black or play DnD or really care that much about metal culture. I just cruise by listening to ABBA and David Bowie, and all those cheesy pop bands, and sometimes slip some metal in with it too. It drowns out the sound of… well everything I guess.”

“I thought you’d think i’m even more ridiculous than you’ve already seen. And I didn’t want you to think that. But Eddie, I absolutely do want to talk to you. Honestly, for some reason it’s easier than talking to anyone else.”

God, why does Steve keep running his mouth? Giving speeches, first Nancy now Eddie. He needs to stop talking so much, everyone’s already bored of him.

Eddies been silent for a while now, but he is smiling, so that’s a good sign, and Steve didn’t accidentally declare his love affection, so there are positives.

“Stevie.” It hasn’t gotten lost on Steve that he’s gotten the nickname back despite it being dropped when Eddie was mad a few minutes ago. “Sorry I judged you. Thanks for… telling me.”

The silence feels… easy. It’s nice.

“So, wanna listen to some music then?”

That’s how Steve spent his whole afternoon, bonding over Metallica, Slayer, Megadeath and even Anthrax. Eddie seemed surprised by how much Steve actually knew.

He also got introduced to some new ones. Massacre (if Steve was in a band, he would not have let it be named all of these generic names), Blessed Death, and W.A.S.P (that one he’d seen on Eddies vest, and listened to slightly before this due to that, but Steve wasn’t gonna admit that out loud).

Steve’s actively ignoring how unbelievably beautiful Eddie looks lying on his bed, hair spread out, arms wide, genuine smile on his face. Steve lies by his side the whole time, close enough that he could count the faint freckles on his face.

It was intoxicating and yet also somehow relaxing. Eddie invited Robin to his place to gossip instead of at Steve’s, he’s pretty sure Nance gave her a lift to the trailer park… there’s something there he reckons, but back to that later. The three sit around distracting Robin, and then consoling Robin about Vickie.

“I just don’t get why she’s gotten back with him? We were flirting, we kissed. She told me and Steve that she’s Bi. I don’t understand. I literally just want one fucking reason she’s run away back to the closet. Oh God maybe it was a friend kiss. Girls do that.”

Friend kiss. Yeah right, because him and Tommy totally made out completely platonically just to learn how to kiss.

And he really wants to tell Robin about that, but he knows that’s sort of outing, and even though she wouldn’t say anything… well let’s just say he’s planning to tell her once they move out of Hawkins.

“Robbie, friend kisses aren’t a thing. I have no fucking clue why she’s gone back in the closet ok. Fuck her. You deserve better, hell she gave you no reason for leaving!”

See Eddies right… but he’s also wrong.

Steve sighs, he knows that this is important, and he doesn’t want to be patronising, but it feels like they’re both missing something important.

It’s gonna hurt but he knows Robin needs to hear this, so he looks her in the eye,

“Robin, listen to me, she’s not back in the closet. She’s Bi, so technically she can still date men. I mean I date women but I still think men are hot. I really don’t want to explain your own experiences to you, but, I think Rob, she wasn’t exactly your number one person either. You two didn’t have much chemistry once you started dating, you told me you were only still with her because you were scared you wouldn’t find another girl. This is just her moving on, it’s not an attack, it’s just she’s moving on and it happens to be with a man.”

Steve gets it, deep down, he knows that he has the choice to marry a women, and his life will be easy. He won’t have to fight and be judged his entire life for no reason. He won’t be attacked, or hurt, or worried for his partners safety.

But Steve’s never been one to back away from love when it gets hard.

“I’m not saying I agree with her… decision. She had absolutely nothing with that guy. She should’ve picked you over him. But he’s the easy, safe option. But that doesn’t mean you’re not enough. It just wasn’t love. I know you know that. And when it is love, your person will move worlds for you, I truly believe that Rob.”

He has to make her understand.

“You deserve so much, somewhere you can be honest and be safe, and outright tell girls you fancy them, date them in public. You deserve to get to be with someone who’s your first choice. Not just the closest not-straight girl you can find. And I hope that’ll be the future, but until then Robbie, you are fucking incredible, and you will find a girl to love you, I know you will. Take your time. And remember that we have a lot of our lives left. You’ll find her. Whoever and wherever she is.”

Oh shit she looks like she’s about to cry. And she just gets up and hugs him. She whispers a thank you in his ear, and he remembers that he still hasn’t told Robin about the metal music he likes. He figures, they share everything, and after telling Eddie, it felt like she wouldn’t be mean either.

Make fun of him a little, sure, but he likes their bickering so that’s ok. But before he can tell her-

“Wait, so Steve, you’re saying that you would date a girl because it’s easier? That you wouldn’t choose a man despite being attracted to one because it’s too difficult in these times to stay with him?”

It sounds almost cold from Eddie, no nicknames or theatrics, some type of guard up. Steve often finds the best way to get guards back down is to just be honest, and frankly, he’s so wrong Steve feels the desperate need to correct him. It’s not like he knows who Steve currently wants to be with.

He can’t help the little laugh he lets out, even the idea feels ridiculous.

“Please Eddie, it’s Steve. He literally fought beside his girlfriend, and her new not quite boyfriend, to protect them. Although… you are rich, and you said you wanted a house with a picket fence and a bunch of kids. Couldn’t have that with a man.”

It almost feels like Robins trying to give him a reality check. Like he just gave her… Except Steve knows. Because he’s thought about it, about what he can and can’t have over and over again torturously.

“Thanks Rob, but I know.” If he dated Eddie he couldn’t marry him, they couldn’t adopt kids and be what Steve used to consider normal. But that doesn’t matter. “I know it would be hard. But I go to hell and back for you idiots, I’d do the same for… whomever i’m with. I believe in romance, and happy endings and all that cheesy, stupid stuff. I believe that it’ll be legal one day, and we’ll all be able to marry whoever we want. A family is a family if you decide it is. My parents were never really family, and they check every technical box. You lot are family, and we’re not related.”

When Steve looks up, realising that is sort of his 4th time making a point using paragraphs instead of sentences, he sees Robin looking at him with a small smile, and Eddie blushing. Steve thinks he looks a little flustered, he’s so adorable (and beautiful).

“That’s actually pretty adorable Steve. You’ve done a good job at making me hope, thanks. Maybe I was being too aggressive confronting her earlier. I mean I deserve a conversation, but I was probably too accusatory.”

“Ok Rob, but know you’re incredible. I wasn’t trying to say you shouldn’t be mad that she ditched you without talking about it, you can feel however you want to feel.”

Steve hadn’t realised how much time has passed since Robbie got here, but once he looks outside, he sees the sun completely set and it’s dark out.

“Hey Rob, aren’t I technically supposed to have you home by 12? You know, or your parents will worry you’re Hawkins next victim. I’m pretty sure it’s around 11, judging from outside.” It’s summer, so for it to be dark, well it’s probably getting late.

Steve watches as Eddie turns around (don’t stare at his butt, don’t stare at his butt) and grabs something from a draw.

“Oh yeah Buckley, it’s 11:30 already, better be departing.” Oh it’s a watch.

Steve will obviously drive her home if that’s what she wants, but suddenly he gets an idea. Nance hasn’t changed much, and he knows she’s usually free around this time, and likes nighttime drives. He’s not entirely sure about them yet, he doesn’t want his best friends heart broken. But they’re two badass women, if anyone’s compatible with Rob, it’s Nancy.

“You know actually Robbie, i’m a bit tired. Ed’s said earlier that I could stay the night,” Technically a lie, though he has offered that before. And he can still leave afterwards. “so maybe you could call Nancy to come pick you up? She likes midnight drives, i’m sure she wouldn’t mind.”

They usually do it like this, don’t outright tell each other reassurances, but instead say subtle things like that.

But it makes sense that Robin would be treading carefully, it is the person who first broke Steve’s heart. But honestly, it feels much more fragile and important in Eddies hands than Nancys, and he doesn’t even know he’s holding it yet.

“Steve. Are you sure?” She’s asking if he’s actually saying what she thinks he’s saying.

“Yeah Rob, it’s better than the Muppet, I’ll give you that.” She laughs with a sniff, god he’s making her cry, “I love you, and I want you to be happy. You’re a million times tougher than me, you’ve got this. You deserve the first choice. And i’ve seen… well i’ve noticed that maybe… it’s not going to be another Vickie. You’re both brave. But if anything does happen, call me immediately, I got you.”

Robin nods her head at the phone, the look is a question. Oh, she wants him to call her. So he smiles and goes to the phone.

(Oh and yes Eddie has been sat in slight confusion and slight adoration on his face the whole time).

“Mr Wheeler hello. I was wondering if Nancy is up, i’m staying at Eddies tonight, we got a bit drunk,” Not true, but that man always requires a reason. “and I was wondering if she’d come pick up Robin.”

“Ah yes she’s up, always liked driving at night my girl. Nancy the phones for you! I hear you’ve been helping out my kids lately Harrington, thank you.”

“No problem Mr Wheeler, really, they’re a joy, if not slightly chaotic.”

“Oh absolutely, and please call me Ted, you’re around enough to do so. I hope you are doing well boy.”

Steve doesn’t hold Ted very high on the dad scale, but he gets the impression that he cares about his kids a lot. He’s lazy, and probably a bad husband. Says the wrong thing often, and doesn’t like his kids hanging around freaks (his words) but it’s all out of love (right?) More than Steve’s father ever gave him. And Steve knows he’d accept whatever any of his kids threw at him if he had to (not like Steve’s dad).

Hell, Steve thinks Ted might think Mikes been dating Will this whole time, made some comments like that.

But still, calling him Ted, a big honour.

“Will do Ted, and yes i’m doing very well. Happy at my job with Rob,” He’s never once asked if they’re dating, doesn’t care. Steve likes that about him, his laziness actually means he keeps his nose out of others business.

Doesn’t expect Steve to date Nancy again, or Robin. In a weird way, he’s calming.

“Dad hand me the phone and stop gossiping with whoever on the other end.”

He hears a whispered “good luck” before the phones clearly in Nancys hand.

“Hey Nance. Was wondering if you’d pick up Rob for me, I got a bit drunk so i’m staying over at Eddies.”

She’s silent for a moment.

“Oh- you all are hanging out then?” Without her. Maybe that’s… insulting. She’s broken up with Jonathon, her works been awkward after what happened to Fred, she’s kind of alone.

“Yep, it was a last second thing really. If was originally just me and Rob and then Eddie started bullying me and we ended up at his place. You know the trailer park?”

Maybe he should invite her to something. It’ll be awkward as hell, but he doesn’t want her all alone.

“Sure i’ll come by. Are you sure that’s what Robin wants?”

Loaded questions required loaded answers.

“Yeah Nance, you’re what she wants. Get her home on time and safely or i’ll be mad, ok? And- erm- well- next Wednesday we’re gonna watch that new movie that’s coming out, me, Rob and Eddie. Want to join us?”

He hopes he’s said enough that it’s clear that if this was a double date, it’d be because Steve wants nothing more than to date Eddie.

Well the actual point he was making was that he’s ok with Robin and Nancy, as long as she doesn’t hurt his best friend. Nancys smart, she’ll figure it out.

“Alright Steve, i’ll be a few minutes. And… thank you. I won’t- I won’t hurt her.”

He doesn’t actually know whether to believe her.

“Alright. See you soon.”

“Yep you too. Also, the first name thing, high honour from my dad.”

He chuckles a little at that.

“Yeah I guess so, what can I say, parental figures just love me…” That’s a weirdly true statement.

(And yes he said parental figures instead of just parents because he wants Eddie to think that Steve could impress his uncle).

“I guess so. Bye Steve.”

He hangs up the phone, and walks over to Robin, who’s getting up and smiling.

She’s silent for a second, but then,

“Oh my god privacy with Nancy Wheeler. Steve Harrington I love you. Thank you. I’ll be careful I promise.”

He hugs her and tells her he thinks she’s got this, and then insults her and tells her she’ll freeze up and embarrass herself.

“Ah, I will. I’ll be awkward and weird. Shit. Well wish me luck. Oh and Ted Wheeler likes you Steve? He hated everyone, if this goes well, you must teach me your ways. Even my parents like you. It’s impressive.”

His dad might never like him, but other people’s parents do.

That has to count for something… right?

The car arrives 10 minutes later and Robs deeply trying not to freak out.

“You got this Rob.”

He doesn’t see Nancy, she doesn’t come to the door. He tells Robin to tell her the details of the movie, he doesn’t exactly want to have to talk right now, not while he’s riding the high of a nice evening with his best friend and… well Eddie.

“So let me get this straight… or not straight,” Eddie starts speaking as soon as the door closes, he hasn’t really explained this to him, so fair enough.

“You just set up your ex girlfriend with your best friend… in the hopes that she’s also bisexual, or at least attracted to girls, and Robin will what? Get to date her?”

He’s right. That it’ll probably get messy at times. But it’s not like he hasn’t truly consider all of this.

“Ed’s, i’ve put a lot of thought into this since I first realised Rob was attracted to her. The rambling, fidgeting around her, it was obvious. And, I don’t want to say anything about Nancy, i’m not trying to out something i’m not even sure of yet, I just think there’s something there, and Nancy isn’t close minded, if she saw it too, I don’t think she’d stop it. I don’t know man. I don’t want Robbie hurt, but they would work better than anyone Nance has dated. They’re both tough, smart, determined and strong. Even if it’s in different ways. They work Eddie. We’ll see if it becomes anything, but I don’t mind, as long as Robin doesn’t get hurt.”

Eddies smiling, it’s that expression that almost pains Steve because he just doesn’t understand it. It’s almost fond, but also amusement, and also sadness. Steve just hopes it’s… positive.

“So I also hear parents love you? Dust told me that Wheelers dad really sucks, apparently they have some kind of rivalry.”

Yeah, it’s hilarious.

“Mmm, honestly I kind of liked Ted. Watched football, left his family alone, didn’t do much parenting, but he loves them. Seems perfect to me.”

Eddie looks shocked for a second, staring at Steve with some sort of combination of confusion and befuddlement.

“Steve? Why on earth is that the perfect dad? Leaving kids alone?”

Because if they get involved they get mean.

“Because, I’ve always preferred my dad not acknowledging my existence over trying to parent me by hurting me. At least he doesn’t care enough to leave his children alone. Let them be. Instead of micromanaging and assaulting them.”

It seems… kind of obvious to Steve. Wouldn’t anyone want a parent who ignores them over a parent who hits them. He knows some parents don’t do that, but that’s like, only the nice ones, like Joyce and Hopper. There aren’t many of those in the world.

“Stevie, you are aware that good parents both pay attention and don’t hit you right? Old man Wheels should pay attention to his kids, and not hurt them.”

Funny.

“Funny Eddie. You can’t have both.”

Although… Robin does. And so do Will and El. And Lucas and Ericas parents are really so lovely. And Dustin’s mother is delightful.

And Eddies uncle is always looking out for him.

And… Carols parents were always nice, but he thought that was only because they had guests.

Maxs stepdad was awful, and her mother wasn’t strong enough to protect her. That wasn’t fair.

But it’s different with Steve’s dad. Isn’t it? It’s normal. Steve’s dad called it normal. But then contradicted himself and called his parenting special.

But, in some way, isn’t Steve a living contradiction? He listens to metal to rebel against his dad, but he’d never ever want him to find out he listens to it. He hates his dad being so far away and not caring, wishes for attention, but never ever wants him to come back, or call, doesn’t want to be belittled or shamed or hit ever again.

He wants and wants and wants good parents so bad, and hates the idea that anyone else doesn’t get that, but doesn’t think he deserves more than he’s got. Doesn’t think he should get different, kinder parents.

“Fuck. My parents are… awful.”

Steve doesn’t want to see the sympathy in Eddies eyes.

“Sweetheart. I’m sorry. Look, I don’t know if you meant it earlier, was originally gonna tease you, but I think you should stay tonight. You aren’t drunk but you are struggling, I don’t want you alone in that house. Please.”

Steve looks. He’s not sure what he was expecting to see, sympathy and regret for starting the conversation maybe. But instead, he gets a crash of emotions.

Eddies doe eyes are staring straight through him as if he can see his soul, with understanding and pain swimming in his eyes. And yet, he’s never felt more grounded. With just a look.

It’s all just better. Because of Eddie.

“Ok. I’ll stay. We won’t be disturbing your uncle will we?”

“Aww love trying to charm my uncle into your list of adults who love you? Don’t worry, I told him that you saved my life and stayed by my side in the hospital. You’re definitely already in his good books. Yeah he works odd hours, should be back at 1am tonight, but spends some of Sunday relaxing so you might see him. He won’t mind your presence though.”

Eddie freezes for a second, like he’s debating the next thing to say in his head over and over. But clearly settled on just saying it in the end.

“And honey, i’m… with him because my parents were… dubious. My dad, Al, he’s in jail. Didn’t care enough about me to stop being a criminal and actually work for me. So I ended up with Wayne, and I couldn’t be happier. He’s the best thing that happened to me. And he’s good. Truly good. He cares, he asks about my day and learnt maths so he could teach me. He makes me lunch when I can’t make it myself, he works awful hours to provide for us, and he’s never mean. He yells when I’m wasting my life away, but never gets close to me, never raises his voice to loud, never insults me, always ends it with ‘I care Eddie’ to remind me he’s helping. And actually helping not hurting me.”

He’s losing everything he, let’s be honest, already knew was a lie. He was hiding, wasn’t ready to accept it. He doesn’t have a family, he’s alone when Robin and the others inevitably leave him behind.

And yet, it also feels freeing.

“So… metal?”

Metal.

They stay up until 2am listening to all kinds of bands, and Steve’s never felt more in love. He doesn’t have to lie, or be anything but himself. It’s so easy.

Steve wakes up at 10:30 on Sunday, relaxed and happy, in clothes Eddie lent him to sleep in, and doesn’t even care that his hair is messed up.

It wasn’t awkward, sharing the bed, it got late and they fell asleep. And Steve’s… well… he’s ok.

Steve goes to the bathroom, and then to the kitchen. He makes himself and Eddie some coffee, and then looks to see if they have much food.

He notices eggs, remembers Eddie saying he loves omelettes once. So, figures he’ll make some.

He learnt to cook when he was pretty young. Left alone for the twelfth time, he was 11, they’d been gone for two months. Nobody can live on takeout.

They actually have quite a lot of eggs, makes sense really. They last about a month and can be used for pretty much everything. He cracks and beats three eggs, seasoning them with his usual perfect amount of salt and pepper and adding a bit of milk so it ends up sweeter and fluffier. He heats up the oil and butter over medium heat. Pours the eggs into the pan, does some swirling, we all know how omelettes are made.

Right before he can decided what ingredients to add, Eddie emerges.

“Morning love. Sleep well? I certainly did. Ooooh omelettes, make me one?”

Love.

It would only be better if it was My Love.

“Actually this one is for you. What would you like in it?”

Eddie smiles, the sun shining in through the trailer and lighting him up.

He grabs some stuff and adds it, and it all looks delicious. And then Steve finishes up, moves it onto a plate, and points to the coffee.

Eddie lights up again, smiling so brightly it’s almost blinding. Suddenly it’s striking Steve how domestic this is.

Eddie doesn’t eat it immediately though, he puts the food down on the table and stands up by Steve, chatting to him as he makes his omelette.

The end up sitting down and eating together. And Steve was finding this all perfectly relaxing, of course that is until Eddie fucking moans.

He takes one bite, and throws his head back with a ridiculously hot moan from the back of his throat.

“Fucking hell, Stevie you didn’t tell me you’re a god in the kitchen, how the hell did you make a good omelette. I always fail at these. Fuck me, what else can you cook baby?”

There are so many things to process in that sentence alone, starting with Eddie arching his back, as if he’s only accepting waking up now, and his face relaxed as if-

No. As if he just ate good food. That’s all.

“It’s j-just an omelette. Add seasoning gently both before and after the egg is in the pan, with some milk for sweetness. Constantly move the egg around so no clumps form, even though it takes lon-longer. And then let the omelette chill with the heat turned off so the bottom doesn’t burn, before rolling it up. I’ve made way more complicated dishes.”

He stumbles a bit while talking because fuck these all look like sex faces and Eddies groaning and looking all blissed out and it’s so unbelievably hot that Steve kind of wants to cry.

“Mmm, no sweetheart, tell me, not complicated ones, just fun ones, dishes you make that you love.”

That he loves?

“I can make pizza better than most take out and restaurants. Also I make mini ones too, they’re a bit more difficult but El and Max love them. I also like to make Rigatoni with roasted vegetables and sometimes with cheese. Oh and Dustin’s mum taught me how to make her hash brown casserole, I really like that one.”

Eddies got that stupidly adorable smile on his face now, like Steve’s actually important to him or something.

He’s glad his food does look and taste pretty good. He did a good job, especially since it’s someone else kitchen.

He heard the chair move back before he sees Eddie moving, and by the time he looks up, Eddies towering over him with a smile. He takes Steve’s (though technically Eddies since he borrowed it) collar, and pulls him up out of the chair.

It’s sort of dizzying, but in the best way.

And like everything else Eddie Munson does, it sucks Steve in like he’s falling for a trap. One of Eddies hands falls to Steve’s waist, the other one still holding the collar of the shirt.

A voice in the back of his head that’s  unsurprisingly sounds like Robin mocks him, “He obviously likes you back dingus! Or he wouldn’t be flirting and putting himself in these positions with you.”

Which sounds true, but maybe he’s just messing with Steve.

“Love, you have so many people that you care for, who cares for you?”

Robin and Dustin usually. They’ve been busy recently though. Vickie and Nancy. Susie and the Party. Will and El are home.

“Who makes you dinner when you’re too tired to make it yourself?”

Joyce would’ve but with the whirlwind of California and saving Hopper, she’s too busy to be burdened by Steve.

“Who tells you to put plasters on your hands when you bleed?”

He doesn’t anymore. The demogorgon should eat him, he deserves it.

“Who comforts you after nightmares?” He can’t wake Robin up.

“Who makes you wear a jacket because it’s always cold and you never remember?”

It’s not as important as the kids being warm.

“Who do you tell your problems too?”

Maybe Steve’s alone.

He can feel himself spiralling, losing touch with the world a little. But then Eddies grip tightens on him, and he’s brought back down.

“You’re not alone Stevie. You have me now. And i’ll make you wear a jacket, and wake up to talk about nightmares at 3am, and listen to you until you lose your voice if that’s what you need. I’ll put plasters on your injuries, educate you through iconic movies you’ve missed, i’ll cook for you, admittedly awfully, when you’re sick or tired or just can’t be bothered. You’re not alone. And the others would help too. They just don’t know you need it. You have to learn to ask for help. Please angel.”

Angel.

Steve quite likes that one.

And he’s touched by Eddies speech, his insecurities are falling away. But Eddie doesn’t look very certain with himself, for some reason.

“Maybe dingus, it’s because he worried he’s gone too far and he’ll scare you away.” Robin seriously needs to get out of Steve’s head.

“Thank you Ed’s. That’s… exactly what I needed to hear. You’d better let me come round and cook for you some time, it’d be a shame for you to miss out on my specialties.”

Would that be a date? Please yes.

But before he can even decide if he can risk asking, the door to the trailer opens, and Steve launches himself back into his seat. Wayne would presumably be weirded out to see his son in that position.

“Eds!” Eddie startles a little, he hadn’t mentioned it but he’d kept looking out the window, probably wondering why his uncle didn’t take a well deserved break.

He steps into the room and collapses onto a chair. He seems so tired.

“Relax Eddie. I’m gonna get myself some food, we have that stale bread left don’t we? I’ll toast it. And then i’m napping the rest of the afternoon.”

He feels like he’s imposing on a moment, but he can’t help himself.

“Mr Munson? I just made me and Eddie omelettes, I don’t know if you like eggs but I could make you one if you like?”

For a second Steve wonder if he’s done something wrong, if Wayne is deathly allergic to eggs or something (although it would be rather weird to keep something you’re allergic to in your house). Eddie and Wayne sort of have a conversation with looks, like Steve and Robin can, until Wayne turns to Steve with a little smile.

“That’d be great as long as it’s not a bother.”

Smiling, Steve goes to the kitchen and gets started. Eddie and Wayne fall into easy conversation, chatting about what they’ve been doing this morning, and their plans for the rest of the day.

They stand near the kitchen, conversation falling to easy silence. Silence is never easy for Steve, someone always had to be speaking in his house, lest they seem rude or bored. But this, easy conversation, and peaceful silence, this is nice.

“What would you like in the omelette Mr Munson.” Wayne, just like Eddie, grabs some stuff and places it by Steve with a smile.

“Call me Wayne kid. Didn’t know you’d be coming round? Someone feeding me, nice surprise, you should try it Eddie.”

It’s a dig, but a friendly one. Parental figures don’t usually do that… or maybe they do since clearly Steve is not exactly up to date with this stuff.

But it seems the two can just joke really easily. Steve is filled with gentle jealousy and overwhelming panic, just for a second, the pain of why Steve doesn’t get this. Normal family, normal parents.

But he has people now, that’s not a worry he has to dwell on anymore.

“Yes well Stevie here was indulging in my metal, and considering joining the gang of freaks and nerds, weren’t you darling?”

Steve totally does not think it’s a good idea to be flirting with Eddie in front of his uncle. He’s not trying to get beat up. But Wayne’s smiling, the same sort of way Robin smiles at Steve and Eddie.

And he doesn’t seem angry at the way Eddies leaning into Steve, or twirling his ridiculously luscious hair around his finger, or smiling in that all consuming, stunning way that’s so captivating Steve can’t look away.

Wayne, possibly, is ok with… whatever the fuck this is. Yeah even Steve can’t pretend this is friend flirting.

(Maybe he’s messing with you. Maybe he hates you. Maybe it’s revenge for how you used to be. Maybe it’s a game. Maybe it’s how he is with every guy he can get wrapped around his finger).

“Don’t doubt yourself dingus.” There goes inner Robin again.

Maybe Steve should be making a point to flirt back. When’s better to fluster Eddie than in front of his uncle?

“Whatever you say sunshine .”

Yeah he takes satisfaction in both how fast that shut Eddie up, and how red he went.

Steve isn’t exactly a nickname person when it comes to friends. First or last names. Only a few for Robin. But with Eddie, like with everything else, it feels oddly right.

And to Steve’s relief, Wayne just barks out a little laugh, as Steve passes him the omelette.

“I see you’ve got one that bites back Eddie.”

That. That makes Eddie blush bright red, it runs down his neck and over his ears.

Wayne takes a bite of the food (no Steve totally isn’t crossing his fingers behind his back) and smiles, like actually smiles.

“Steve this is great. You know, I doubted you at first. You’re a… well your old friends have hurt my boy before. But Eddie was right, you are trustworthy. Well, technically Eddie said ‘Amazing, gorgeous and trustworthy’ but I’m not one for all that sappy stuff. Thanks for the food, come back and make more whenever you want.”

Steve barely registers it as Wayne gets up and takes the food with a smile to his room.

Eddie called him amazing. And gorgeous. And trustworthy.

Wayne listened to his nephew talk about boys. Naturally. Doesn’t seem that bothered. Eddies blushing still, spluttering a little, probably trying to justify himself. But all Steve can think is,

“He loves you anyway.”

If Steve knows anything about his parents for certain, it’s that they’d scream at him for this. Call him a mistake, a failure, call him nonsense and gross and pathetic.

“Why don’t I deserve to be loved for me?”

Really though. The kids love him because he protects them, drives them places, babysits. Robin loves him because she needs a confidant, a person to rely on, and she’s stuck with him after admitting her secrets.

When Nancy got to know Steve, she stopped loving him. No that’s wrong. She never actually loved him at all. Even the fake perfect version of him that he built.

“You do baby.” And that pulls him back to earth. “You do. And even if your family can’t give you that, we all will. Stevie, Robin loves you no matter what. She spends all her time with you. And she enjoys it all. Dustin goes to you with ridiculous questions sometimes just so he can argue with you because he misses you. Red and El invite you to sleepovers because they feel safe with you. They love you. For you.”

Steve doesn’t say it out loud to the girls, but he loves those. They paint his nails and gossip. Steve feels bad for telling Dustin to ignore girls so they come to him now, though the girls collectively agreed to forgive him for that one though.

(And like he could ever fucking ignore Eddie).

Erica comes by sometimes, and seriously she’s awesome. He spent a whole day learning to do her hair at her house. After teaching Lucas basketball tricks (he still has some tricks up his sleeve). He could tell he wasn’t trusted immediately, but pretty quickly, they gave back in, and now Steve’s brilliant at so many hair styles and hair products.

“Thanks Eddie. I’m sorry i’m being a bit of a mess.”

“You’re not a mess, I promise, plus I’m enjoying all this time I’m getting to spend with you. Say, do you have any plans for today Stevie?”

He’s got work at two, but that’s not for a few hours. Steve says as much to Eddie, and is immediately dragged back to Eddies room.

He’s slightly nervous, whatever this is between them is hanging in the air now, and pretty obvious. Steve can’t decide if he has to be the one to say it.

But he goes, lets himself be dragged back to Eddies room. It’s so… lived in. There’s clothes on the floor, guitar on the wall, taped scattered around, posters on the wall. It’s so him. Steve’s house is empty and plain and boring. Eddies lively and happy and brave and complicated in every brilliant way.

Steve turns to him to find that he’s already being watched. Eddies got a peaceful smile on his face, gentle and calm. Steves sure it’s a reflection of his own.

“So… music?” Music.

Steve is so fucking stupid. There is literally no better time to confess than listening to music you both love, mostly alone (Wayne wasn’t listening) and literally right fucking next to each other on his bed.

But he chickened out. Because Eddie used many more nicknames, and smiled so bright, and stroked Steves hand up and down so delicately. Is this how girls feel all the time? It’s nerve-wracking.

And he missed his shot. So he’s at work, a gossiping Robin word-vomiting about Nance (make that exactly a hour since she started) and half listening to her as he puts movies away.

He panicked when he realised time had slipped away from him and he was gonna be late for work. He ran out the door with a “Robs gonna kill me if i’m late, see ya later Ed’s” and went straight to his car. He didn’t even get a chance to invite himself back.

The afternoon goes alright. Before Steve knows it’s, it’s eight and they’re gonna be locking up in like half an hour. He hasn’t told Robin, he’s not sure why, just because he feels like if he says it out loud he’ll have to accept how ridiculous he’s being.

And then Eddie comes in.

“Buckley, Harrington.” He bows as he walks over. He’s such a nerd (it’s so cute).

Robin leans against the counter and chats to Eddie as Steve carries on stacking tapes. They chat for a few minutes and then Robin makes some sort of shocked gasp.

“Steve, oh my god, I totally forgot to ask, Nance invited me out tonight. Can you drop me off at her house instead of home?” She’s been gossiping all day about Nancy and forgot to mention they have a date.

“Oooh is it a date?” She’s probably been deciding whether to tell him all day.

“I hope so…” Honestly, so does Steve. They’ll be cute together, and Rob deserves the world. Nance might be that for her. Plus Robin absolutely deserves to date and have ex’s and cause chaos.

“Come round to mine tonight then Stevie?” Robins kindly not mentioned the fact that Steve’s been in Eddies clothes all day. Luckily he keeps his work vest in the car.

Eddies acting a bit weird though, he’s been eyeing Steve since he walked in (more than usual), maybe it’s because he’s in his clothes. He didn’t really ask. Just grabbed some of Eddies joggers (Eddie looks so adorable in them, but he says he’ll never wear them outside) and ran before he could even get the chance to invite himself back.

“Wayne won’t be round so we won’t be disturbing him. I know you want to keep up your golden boy rep.” Robins eyebrows shoot up, and she gives Steve a half - oh my god are you fucking? - look, and a half - how dare you not tell me you’re fucking? - look.

He tries to reply with - we’re not yet but i’m trying also I don’t know what i’m doing but I love it so fuck it- look. From Robins expression, he did a pretty good job.

“Well in that case, as long as you’re fine with me stealing more of your clothes, then sure.”

“Planning to stay the night then pretty boy?”

Eddies walked over to him now, and if Steve’s doing this, he’s doing it right.

“Oh but can I Ed’s? Your beds so much more comfortable, and I love wearing your clothes, they smell like you.”

He really does as well. It’s weird, it’s all those little things Steve hasn’t noticed before. Overbearing perfume is gone and the gentle scent of shampoo, smoke and grass (the outside, not the weed) radiants around now. Barely noticeable eye colour is now beautiful dark and rich and chocolate doe eyes that are impossible to refuse.

It’s not an insult to others he’s dated, just that with Eddie, it alls fits. It feels like… something.

“Oh- erm- well yeah I love you… in my clothes… too. Sure. Stay.”

Oh and just when it couldn’t get any better, Eddie Munson is blushing. No gently, but obviously, and twirling with his hair. Steve heard his slip up, and he’s going to use all that practise during customer service to finally get a check on the “You Rule” side of the board, and finally for someone he cares about.

“Yeah Ed’s, love you… twirling your hair like a teenager with a crush for me.”

Steve’s was worried he crossed a line for a second, since Eddie snapped his head from his shoes to Steve’s face. He was preparing for what to say to apologise when a ridiculously confident look flicked through Eddies expression.

“Mmm, whatever you say princess. See you after work.”

Princess. Fucking hell.

Why does Steve like these pet names? And where oh where does Eddie get that confidence from?

And then, before he can even process all

that, Eddie leans in and kisses his cheek.

And maybe that sounds innocent to most people, but man, it’s just the start of… something.

Steve really needs to name whatever’s going on with them (boyfriends Steve. It’s called boyfriends).

The second the bell dings, Robin practically screams,

“Steven! Why didn’t you tell me!!! Oh my goddd. I mean I know i’m a lesbian, but like really. Just watching that was like morbidly hot. Oh and you’ve been letting me ramble on about Vicky and Nancy all day. Steve!”

Ok yeah he should’ve told her. But saying it out loud makes it tangible. Like something he has to lose and not just a fantasy he’s living in. Reminds him that one wrong move and it’s all gone.

And Robin clearly sees the nerves bubbling up, as she walks over to him and gently placed her hand on his shoulder. It’s a technique that’s supposed to bring him back down or something, Steve supposed it works alright (fine it is quite soothing).

“Sorry Rob. I just- I actually have something like this to lose again and i’m freaking out.”

“What i’m not something to lose then?”

“No, you’re not. Cause I know you’ll stay by my side even if I mess up. I could lose Eddie if I screw up and that’s terrifying.”

“Steve. He’s not going to give up on you like that. You’d never give up on him right.” He nods. He’d never give up on Eddie. “Right. And he won’t give up on you.”

She’s right and he’s freaking out over nothing.

“Thanks Rob.”

“No problem, now let’s move onto the important stuff. Have you made out yet?”

Really?

“Rob, he kissed me on the cheek and I blushed bright red. No we obviously haven’t.”

“Right. Ok. So basics then. You know about gay sex-“ “Rob!” “Oh don’t freak out. Most importantly talk to him, Eddie is lovely and he’ll listen to you. Now I know you like having your hair pulled-“ “Robin I swear…” “Oh shut it. Just tell him not to pull to hard or you’ll get a headache. Take things however slow or fast you want and always wear a condom. Even if you think you’re clean.”

She’s right. But ugh. It’s like having your parents give you the talk (not that Steve ever got that).

“Got it Rob.” He punctuates his annoyance with a brilliant eye roll.

“And call me if you need me.”

And that’s the last reassurance Steve needs. He’s not even nervous anymore.

Fuck, he’s so nervous. What if he does something stupid? Or Eddie laughs at him when he inevitably gets flustered.

He can’t even get himself to knock on the door.

Knock Steve, just knock… if he sees you and opens the door that’s so embarr-

“Steve? Forget how to knock did you?”

Fuck.

He looks beautiful (and so hot). The jacket he was wearing earlier is hung up on the wall behind him, and now he’s in a fucking crop top (Black Sabbath, Master of Reality… Ozzy’s best album) and he has… eyeliner. He has fucking eyeliner on. And it’s stunning.

“Stevie?”

“Oh, erm, hey… man.” Ugh that felt weird. “I, er, like the shirt. Ozzy though, really? Oh and nice eyeliner. It really suits you.” And at that comment, Eddie goes bright red and starts shifting awkwardly from foot to foot.

“I’m sorry Stevie, I forgot I even had it on. It’s weird. I’ll go take it off.” What?

“No.”

Eddie just gives him an upset look. Oh. He thinks Steve’s going to insult him. Come on Steve, you’ve flirted with a tone of girls. You’ve got this.

So he steps into Eddies space (through the door so he’s actually inside) and stares into his eyes (the eyeliner just makes them look bigger and more beautiful).

“Baby, your makeup is lovely. You look beautiful. You can wear whatever you want around me. I think you look stunning in everything.”

As he speaks, he steps closer, and wraps his arms around Eddie waist.

And if he takes a little satisfaction in managing to fluster Eddie the same way he always seems to succeed at doing, then it’s well deserved.

“Baby?”

“Oh so you can give me a million pet names and I can’t use one?”

Eddies staring back now, and fuck he’s so close. All Steve’s thinking is ‘Fucking kiss me already’.

“Well… music again? I have to prove Ozzy’s the best.” Eddie hasn’t moved out of Steve’s arms, and doesn’t even look like he wants to, but Steve listens, and let’s go. He walks to Eddie room without looking back. He doesn’t want to know if Eddie looks relieved or nervous.

The set up the music while avoiding awkward eye contact and the music plays for about 15 minutes before Steve’s shifting in his seat, annoyed and waiting.

They haven’t been talking through the songs about music and life and chaos like they did before. Steve gained no new additional information for his Eddie list in his head.

Make a fucking move Munson.

“He’s probably waiting for you to make a move dingus.” Steve might as well get used to inner  Robin by this point. And given her usual genius, it seems she might be right. (What does it say for their friendship that he knows exactly what she’d say at all times…)

Come on Steve Harrington, you’ve fought Russians, crazy hypnotised and possessed guys, and a man slash monster. You’ve got this. You’re brave…

Steve is not that brave. It’s ok though. He can ease into this. Eddies currently lying like a starfish on his bed in his classic dramatic fashion… Steve can be subtle right?

So he just gently moves Eddies legs together,

“Sorry Ed’s, just wanted space to actually sit.” He gets a grunt and a red face in return.

On song later and Eddies playing with his hair, and Steve decides to go for his next move. And so he leans over Eddie, so that he’s basically on top of him.

“Hey this is the tape we listened to last night right?” He picks it up from the counter by Eddies bed, but stays leaning over Eddies face. “Thanks for letting me stay again sweetheart, it means a lot.” See, Steve has moves. He can give him pet names back-

And then before he can even blink, Steve is flipped over with his back against the mattress and Eddie fucking Munson straddling him, gripping Steve’s arms by his side.

“We’re on the same page here, right baby?” Eddie asked something. Answer him Steve.

But he can’t. So he just nods.

“Look, I really want to kiss you, and I also want to ask you out on a date and be a perfect gentlemen but fucking hell do I also want to completely wreck you. But i’m gonna need an actual answer sweetheart.”

It’s never felt like this. Which sounds like a line. But Steve means it. He almost feels out of his body, and they literally haven’t even kissed yet. Wait… why haven’t they kissed yet.

So Steve just kisses him. And it’s everything. It’s not a particularly different kiss, aside from Eddie lips being a little tougher than a girls, but it’s perfect. Because he’s waited so long and he’s feeling so much and it’s all something. And Eddie said he wanted more. And Steve wants more. Oops… Steve forgot to tell him.

“Ed’s,” Fuck he’s out of breath already, “Me too. I want to date you too. I want more. I also want you to be a gentlemen and joke with me and i’ll make you dinner and insult your music and DnD and argue about Ozzy and Dio. And I absolutely want you to wreck me. Preferably now.”

Eddies moans are so hot Steve kind of wants to cry. He loves knowing that he can fluster Eddie the same way Eddie flusters him.

“Ok but we probably shouldn’t-“

“Aw come on Ed’s. Calling me a million insane pet names and teasing me all weekend and you’re literally on top of me right now and you still won’t do anything. Love, just fuck me already.”

He knows he’s getting ahead of himself but come on.

“O-Ok. Stevie, baby, you erm, so you realise I probably shouldn’t just fuck you right now… right?”

“Fine, tomorrow. Now I have to go to leave for work at 9 tomorrow so if we’re gonna have time for anything, we’d better start now. I need my beauty sleep.”

“Well you are beautiful.”

It’s stupid how much that makes Steve blush.

“But hey… before we do anything, can I ask you something?” Suddenly Eddie seems nervous, it’s feels a bit weird but also important because it’s so out of nowhere.

“Sure anything.”

“It’s just- I mean- Since I feel like we started… flirting, and it seems like you like me. I don’t want to be ignorant i’ve just been thinking about it. Cause I didn’t want to go for anything and make you uncomfortable. Just, why did me admitting you were my first real crush bother you so much? I don’t mean to be rude, but since…”

Ok Eddie keeps talking, rambling with nerves, sort of like Robin, but Steve hears none of it. Because him? No… no no no. That’s not what Eddie said.

“What do mean?”

“Stevie. Really? When I admitted to you and Robin that you were my first crush. After she told me about Tammy.”

Eddies still on top of him, but he’s pointedly ignoring eye contact and looks like he’s considering moving.

“Err, no man. That’s not what you said. You and Rob refused to tell me. Then you said it was some jock in the year below you, technically, who was hot and funny, was your first crush.”

That seems to make Eddie slightly more comfortable for some reason but he also shifts a little and maybe he doubts Tage or-

“Sweetheart, love, I meant you. I was being sarcastic. Making a joke ‘yeah you know him’. Cause it’s you. Did you really not realise? Stevie… but you looked weirded out.”

Of course he did.

“Of course I did. I- I thought you meant Tommy. I guess I was jealou- ok it doesn’t matter but-“

Eddie, who previously had been masterfully avoiding eye contact while still on top of Steve, straddling him, snaps his eyes back to him. And an annoyingly hot smirk dances across his face.

“Baby. You were jealous?” He looks way too pleased. But Steve’s not too mad about it, since their faces are suddenly really really close and Eddies smug smile is so fucking hot.

“Aww princess, you had no need to be. Of course it was you. And to be honest, getting to know you has made it worse. Now i’m cursed with the knowledge that you’re also stunning and funny and so unbelievably kind, and I just, I don’t want to fuck this up”

Eddie had a crush on Steve back then. It shouldn’t feel this good to know. But he’s always kind of wondered if he’s still have become good if it wasn’t for the upside down. If he would’ve met Eddie. But now he feels like he would have. Somehow.

Because there’s no doubt in his mind he’d be stuck with the little shitheads in every universe. So maybe Eddie would’ve had a reason to talk to him, and then… Well it doesn’t matter exactly, he’s in this world, where he’s lucky enough to be with Eddie right now.

“Eddie, baby, we’re totally talking about this later. Because I want to know everything from back then. But right now, I swear to god, if we don’t start making out-“

And then Eddies pulling his hair, one arm over his head and the other tangle in his curls. And fuck it’s hot. Steve moaning before he can stop himself.

“Baby, I promise, I can’t wait to slowly ruin you, pull the slaggiest and dirtiest sounds from the bottom of your throat, touch you everywhere you’ve never been touched before, curse you with way too many new kinks, and tease you until you’re crying and begging for me.”

Ok it’s official. Tonight is going to be mind blowing.