#my parents are watching mr and mrs smith

[aalyssah]

My Nerdy Boy

Pairing: Nerdy!Peter Parker x Popular!Fem!Reader

Warnings: Smut. Blowjob, Cursing, Handjob, Loss of Virginity, Names, (Good Boy), Oral, (Peter Receiving), Praise, Soft Sex, and Unprotected Sex. Minors DNI 18+

Word Count: 3,188

Summary: You're a beautiful popular girl in school and after numerous rejections to a boy who doesn't know what 'No' means, Peter steps in, causing an interest to spark in you.

A/N: I just thought of this as Peter, who's a nerd, that's in love with the popular reader, but thinks he has no chance :( Hope You Enjoy!

Being the most popular person in college is hard, especially when you're a girl. It's not your fault your parents are famous actors!

Boys tend to flirt with you, girls want to be your friend to get that same popularity, hell, even some girls want to date you, but you're not that type of person.

You're not one to look for relationships. You just want to do good in school so you can become something helpful to the world.

You walked through the school doors, a small pink bag in your hand. Everyone stopped talking as they watched you walk down the halls. You ignored the whispers of people cooing over your outfit and walked to your best friend MJ.

She's been with you since day one, not caring about your popular parents and that's what made you both so close. "Hey girl, you look good today. You smiled at her compliment. "Thanks, you too. Anyways, have you heard about the assignment Mrs. Smith posted online?"

You and MJ began talking about school until the sound of loud boys yelling caught your attention. You turned around to see Brad walking in, his face oranger than Donald Trump. You rolled your eyes as he made his way towards you, a football in his hand.

"Oh god, here we go." You heard MJ mumble under her breath.

"Y/n! Lookin' amazing today!" You gave a small fake smile. "Thank you Brad, you look-" You paused, looking at him up and down. "Uh, great." Brad cockily chuckled. "Yeah, I know, just got a new tan. You like it?" You held back a laugh at his face.

His face was orange, not matching the rest of his white body. "Yeah, sorry to cut the conversation short, but I have to get to class, so I'll see you around." You were about to walk away, but Brad called out.

"Wait! I just wanted to ask if you would go to prom with me?" You closed your eyes, trying to find a way to politely reject him. "Brad, you're a great guy, but I'm really not into you."

'Ooos' could be heard around the hall as Brad's face dusted pink. He just got rejected in front of most of the school. You walked away without looking back, going to your class.

-

You went through most of your classes and now it was time for lunch. You were starving and couldn't wait to eat. You sat at a table with MJ eating when Peter came.

He held a tray in his hand. "May I sit here?" You nodded your head, scooting over. "Sure, it's a public lunch room." You flashed a smile Peter's way, a blush forming on his cheeks.

Peter was known as the school nerd, but you didn't care. You and MJ were in the middle of talking when Brad and his football lackies came sitting there. "Move it nerd, this is a popular table only." Peter instantly stood up, grabbing his book bag and tray.

"Hurry up kid." Peter tried his fastest to grab his stuff, but wasn't fast enough for Brad. "Brad stop, leave him alone." Brad ignored you, slapping the tray out Peter's hand, his food falling to the floor.

Laughter erupted throughout the lunch room as Peter got down on his knees and began cleaning up the food. "Brad stop being an asshole and leave him alone!" You pushed past him, getting down to help Peter.

He looked up at you, kind of shocked that you were helping him. "I'm sorry about him, he's just rude." You help him clean up the mess before giving him a smile. "I'll see you around." Just as you finished your sentence the bell rang, everyone getting up to leave for their next class.

-

It was the next day and you were walking around the corner when you accidentally bumped into Peter.

Your books fell out of your hand and you jumped back. "Oh, I'm sorry." You both bent down to pick them up, your hands touching.

You looked at him, making eye contact. Peter awkwardly chuckled, standing up. "I-I'm sorry, I-" You put a hand up. "Hey, calm down, it was just an accident." You grabbed your books. "I like your outfit, you look nice."

Peter looked down at his blue collared shirt with a small smile. "Thank you, my aunt got it for me." The sweet conversation was interrupted when Brad came around the corner, laughing loudly. "Wow, Peter Parker's aunt buys his own clothes and they're ugly!"

Brad and his boys laughed, a frown coming from you. "I knew you were pathetic, but not that bad!" You watched as Peter looked down at his feet, quiet as a mouse.

"Alright Brad, just because he wears something different than you doesn't mean you have to be rude about it. Everyone has their own style." Brad looked at you surprised.

"Oh c'mon Y/n, why are you defending this nerd?" You shook your head in shame. "You shouldn't treat people like that. Stop being mean." You grabbed Peter's wrist, dragging him to a different area.

"Sorry about him again. Don't listen to him, in fact, I think your outfit is cool." Peter smiled slightly. "I think we should hang out sometime. I have class, but I'll talk to you later." Peter let you go, watching as you walked off.

He felt so in love, but there was no way you would choose him.

-

PROM NIGHT!

There were posters plastered everywhere the school, telling everyone prom was coming up.

Unfortunately, you didn't have a date, but you don't think you're gonna go with anyone. Usually you and MJ go together, but she and her boyfriend, Ned are gonna go.

You walked up to MJ smiling. "Hey." She greeted you. "Hey, you heard about prom tomorrow? Who's your date? Maybe Brad or Kyle from history." You scrunch your face in disgust. "Oh hell no, definitely not Brad. I might not even go this year."

MJ frowned at your words. "What why? We always go." You shrugged your shoulders, taking some books out your locker. "You and Ned are going and I don't wanna be a third wheel." She was quick to deny.

"You won't be. Just come for me, please?" You grunted in annoyance. "Fine." She squealed, hugging you. "Thank you, oh thank you. I love you." She kissed your cheek and left off to go find her man.

You stood against your locker on your phone, when a shadow blocked some light. You looked up and almost rolled your eyes to the back of your brain.

There was Brad with a smirk on his face. "Y/n, you still down for my offer about the prom? I was thinking we could wear blue, maybe red, so we can look hot. Be the center of attention."

You pushed him back, scoffing. "Brad, I already told you. I don't want you. I don't want to date you, talk to you, not even be friends, so what makes you think I'm gonna go to the prom with you?" Brad gave you a challenging look. "Damn, I love me a feisty girl." You walked away, leaving him alone.

You did all your classes and even got to leave early to get ready for prom. You chose a black dress and did minimal make up, not wanting to go all out. MJ stopped by and got you and drove y'all to the school.

The moment y'all reached there, loud music bumped down the street, lights flickered and flashed, and bodies moved against each other like they were in a dance club.

"Me and Ned's gonna go dance." You heard MJ yell at you. You nodded your head with a smile, watching as your friend went off with her man.

You went to a small table that was littered with snacks and drinks. You grabbed a water bottle, cracking it open and taking a sip. You looked around the room once more.

It was a nice prom with some of your fellow classmates enjoying their time. As you looked around you caught the eye of Peter, sitting alone at a table, tapping his foot to the beat of the music. He looked so lonely.

With a determined smile, you got up, walking over to his direction, but before you could make it across the room, Brad came out of nowhere. "Baby, Y/n, you look beautiful tonight." You rolled your eyes, putting a hand on your hip.

"Before you ask, the answer is no." You tried to walk past him, but he only walked in your direction. "Woah, where are you going? I just want to dance, maybe even share a kiss."

"Brad, I've told you multiple times, I don't want you! So no, I don't wanna dance, or kiss you. Leave me alone." You walked past him, making your way towards Peter, but you were pulled back by Brad, his arm wrapping around your waist, and forcing you against his body.

"Why do you play hard to get? I've tried to be get with you since 5th grade, but you're to blind to see because of that stupid nerd Penis Parker!" You squirmed in his arm, trying to get away from his disgusting hold, but he only held you tighter.

"Stop trying to run." You looked around nervously, seeing if anyone was paying attention, but everyone was too busy dancing, and the loud music didn't help anyone.

"Get your hands off of her!"

You felt your whole world stop at that voice.

It was Peter.

The music slowly died down at the yelling, people's attention turning to you. "And what are you gonna do if I don't?" Brad challenged, with a smirk. His smirk was wiped off his face when Peter's fist connected Brad's cheek, his grip falling off you.

Brad fell to the floor, looking up in shock. Murmuring was heard around the room at Peter's strength. You quickly stood by his side, looking down at Brad.

"If you ever try to touch me or even talk to me, Peter's gonna beat your ass, and we know you would want that." You chuckled, watching as Brad scrambled to his feet and left, too embarrassed for what happened.

Everyone began dancing like everything was normal, you turning to Peter. "Thank you Peter, I don't know what would've happened if you weren't here." Peter smiled, looking down at the ground.

"Well, you're just really pretty, and I didn't want to see you get hurt." You matched his smile, grabbing his hand. "Let's go somewhere private." You dragged him outside to a nearby hotel.

It was much quieter and y'all could have peace. Peter felt nervous as you booked a room for the night, but he was sure y'all wouldn't spend that long there.

You closed the door, locking it behind you before sitting down on the bed. Peter awkwardly stood up, looking lost. "Peter, sit down." You said, patting a spot next to you.

He slowly walked to you, sitting down. He had his hands in his lap, playing with his fingers. "Peter? Why'd you help me out there?" Peter stayed silent for a second, trying to think of the right words.

"No man should grab a girl like that. Especially someone like you." You tilted your head to the side, with a questioning look. "What do you mean someone like me?"

Peter jumped up, thinking you were offended. "No, I didn't mean it like that! It's just, you're really pretty, and I don't want anyone to do something you don't feel comfortable with. Plus, you’ve helped me so many times with Brad, so it’s only right for me to help you."

You watched his facial expression as he spoke, getting deep in detail on his reasoning. "Peter? Do you like me?" Peter avoided your eyes, giving you the answer. Without thinking, you grabbed his jaw, guiding him to your lips for a kiss.

Peter sat there, eyes widened, not knowing what to do. You pulled back once you felt him tense up. "Peter, I'm so sorry! I thought you were feeling me!" You scooted away, but Peter was fast to grab your arm.

"No! I want you, I-" He stopped speaking, feeling embarrassed. "I've never done this before." A smile appeared on your face at his confession.

No wonder he always gets so flushed when around you."You're a virgin?" He nodded his head. You 'tsked' rubbing your hands in and down his pants. "Well, we don't have to do anything you don't want to."

Peter shook his head, grabbing your hand. "I-I want you to be my first." Your eyebrows shot up. No one's ever asked you to be their first. "Are you sure?" He finally looked up at you. "Please?"

You dropped down to your knees, spreading his legs apart. "Get naked." He quickly stripped from his clothes, a little eager for you. You could see the bulge poking from his boxers.

A shocked gasp escaped from your lips. "Peter!" Peter sat up, looking worried, as if he did something wrong. "What? What's wrong? Does my thing look weird? I'm sorry!" He quickly raised his hands to cover his crotch area.

You gently pulled his hands down, with a smile. "No Petey. I didn't know you were packing this much." A blush formed on Peter's face at your compliment and the nickname.

You pulled his boxers down, throwing them somewhere in the room. You grabbed his cock with a chuckle, stroking him up and down. "You're so big Peter." He stared down at you as you took him in your mouth, humming at the sweet, but salty taste.

Peter moaned, head falling on the bed. You took him deep down your throat, before slowly coming up. Peter felt like he was on cloud nine right now while you were sucking him off.

You slowly began bobbing your head and cupping his balls, smiling at the squeal that came from him. You took your lout off him for a second, still stroking him. "Peter, baby, can you do me and favor and fuck my mouth?" Peter looked at you with wide eyes.

He's seen people do it in movies, but in person?

With someone as pretty as you?

Hell yeah!

Peter carefully guided your mouth back to his cock, scooting down the bed a little. He thrusted his hips up, his eyes shutting tight at how good your mouth felt. Your nails were digging a deep moon crescent into his thighs.

He was whining above you, his pace not slowing down. "Oh god, it f-feels so g-good!" You relax your jaw and hollow your cheeks around him, making sucking noises known. Peter jerked slightly, hips slowing down.

You noticed how close he was getting and pulled back fast. Peter let out a frustrated sigh, sadly looking down at you with puffy red cheeks, and eyes glisten from the tears.

"Sorry baby, but I don't want you to cum yet. You haven't even felt me!" You stripped from your dress, pulling the straps down, revealing your body.

Peter moaned at the sight of your body, hands coming to your waist. "Ah, ah, no touching, I'm in charge." His hands fell slack on the bed, looking up at you as you stepped over him.

You squatted above him, guiding his cock to your entrance. With slow movements, you slowly sunk down, moaning as he reached deep in you. Peter moaned at your tightness, closing his eyes tight.

You saw and said something. "Open your eyes for me. Look at me as I ride you." Peter opened his eyes, tears glistening in his pupils.

He's never felt anything this good.

You just started and he's already drunk on your cunt.

You gently bounced up and down on him, your hands planted on his chest. Your breast bounced with every movement, Peter's eyes staring at your nipples.

You breathily chuckled, leaning down so your breasts were dangling in his face. He looked up at you with pleading eyes and with a nod, he leaned up and latched his mouth onto your nipple.

He suckled the nipple, an arm wrapped your waist, pulling you down more, as you still bounced on top of him.

With one bounce you stopped, grinding against his pelvic, his cock swiping against different parts in your body. Peter moaned as he hit your sweet spot, feeling you tighten around him. "Feel good, yeah?" You panted out, beginning to bounce again.

He nodded his head, knowing if he talked it would come out as babbled words. "Gotta use your words Petey." He bit his lip before answering. "Yeah, it feels s'good." You smiled. "Good boy, baby."

Peter thrusted his hips up, moaning as you clenched him. "Oh fuck!" You said surprise. "You like to get praised? Huh? You're my good boy, aren't you?" Peter nodded his head, wanting to please you. "Go on and fuck me then. Just like you did a minute ago."

And Peter complied with your order, tucking your head in his neck, knees bent, and feet planted on the bed and began thrusting in you wildly. Loud clapping noises and moans were heard around the room as Peter fucked you.

His balls slapped against the back of your thigh as you squeezed around him repeatedly, feeling all pleasure run through your body. Peter ended up hitting your sweet spot, plowing into it nonstop.

"Oh my god Peter, I'm gonna cum!" Your legs shook, back arched and mouth opened, filthy moans coming from you. You ended up cunning without noticing until you heard Peter moan and wet noises coming from your bodies.

You watched Peter's facial expression as he got close. "Y/n, where can I cum?" He was desperate for any answer. As long as you tell him where to cum. “Inside, I take birth control." That was all you needed to say for him to cum.

Peter came with a needy moan, emptying everything in you. You both laid on top of each other, catching your breath. "You were way too good for your first time." You both shared a laugh.

You got up and slowly pulled out before going to the bathroom to clean up.

As soon as y'all hit the bed, you were asleep, with you holding Peter against your chest.

-

The next morning you woke to your phone with texts from MJ.

MJ: Y/n, you okay? I heard you left ‘cause of Brad.

MJ: Y/n, are you gonna answer?

MJ: Brad moved, he's going to LA and doing collage there.

Peter woke up, nuzzling his head into your neck, taking in your scent. "Peter, you did so good that you ran Brad outta here. He moved to LA."

Peter had a smile on his face at your words. "You're so strong. My strong nerdy boy." You corrected yourself, brushing some hair out his face.

That day you and Peter became official, him growing somewhat popular and not only did you not have to worry about another guy messing with you, but you’re happy you got a nerdy boyfriend.

#peter parker #peter parker smut #tom holland smut #peter parker fluff #peter parker imagine #peter parker x reader #peter parker x you #peter parker oneshot #marvel smut

[impyssadobsessions]

Excerpts from my WIPS ;3 Guess Which story and when- or if its a story even up. If ya want.

----DPxDC

“Keep communication lines on, we'll be moving towards your location.” Batman had replied, which made Nightwing clicked his teeth. “How much should I bet you're not going to do that?” Dick turned to ask Jason as both of them hopped off the bike. “Do what? I didn't hear anything.” “Okay, so a hundred at least.” Nightwing hummed, as he followed Red-Hood back towards the abandon lab.

----DPxDC

"-One time she sent DASH! To babysit ME! I'm older than both of them now. Y'know how awkward that was? Though the look on Dash's face was hilarious.” Dick smirked, raising a brow. “The guy that bullied you? Why did she ask him?” “Ah, probably because he's a puppy that'll do whatever my sister asks. She knows it too.” Danny clicked his tongue as his face grimaced at the implications of it. “I may or may not have... scared him a few times. I do like a disappearing act.” Dick grinned as he could imagine what Danny meant. He did seem to take any form of “keeping tabs” on him as a challenge. Danny smirked back, a mischievous glint in his eye, before dropping his face. “Jazz was REALLY upset about it. I had assumed this was her being overbearing and protective like usual-I didn't realize how hard this was on her.” The guilt thick in his throat. “She broke down crying and.. I promised her I'll stay out of the house when she's not home. 'Cause I didn't know what to do.. or say. I just..” “Thought of the easiest solution?” “Yeah... I guess.” Danny shrugged, defeated.

---------DPxDC

“Tsk, tsk, tsk. Shouldn't you be resting, sir?” Alfred scolded. A small amused smirk on his lips as he carried lunch on a tray. Bruce just made a grunt. His eyes glued to the screen of the laptop. Images, news articles, videos. Whatever he could find was displayed on the screen, while he bit at the end of his pencil. A notepad next to him. “Ah yes, very informative answer, Master Bruce.” Alfred set down the tray on the nightstand beside his bed. There was more than just lunch on the tray as it carried a medical kit. Bruce sighed. He shoved the laptop to the side and struggled to sit up more so Alfred could replace his dressing. “This whole situation just crawls under my skin.” “I say it does, sir.” Alfred's hands move quickly to help replace the doctor's handy work. “Secret government organization, children in peril, and the boarder between life and death getting thinner by the day. Certainly sounds like a recipe for disaster.”

---------BULLY

Pete glanced back up at Mr. Smith. The man was eyeing him carefully, waiting for a reply. He must care about Gary in some way to go through this much trouble, right? And... it would be easier to contact Gary's grandfather than dealing with the headmaster. Pete bit his lip as he thought. “Um, Okay. S-sure.” “Atta boy! Hahaha!” Allen laughed as he smacked his hand on Pete's shoulder, making him stumble. Pete really needed to work on not being pushed around so easily. “Though, if you can mange to keep little Garreth in line, I'll add in a little bonus for your trouble. Since you're doing more than half what I was paying this damn school to do.” “That's not-” “Some good advice. Never work for free, Pete. Consider it a token of gratitude. After all, I think we both know watching my grandson isn't an easy task.” Allen winked.

--------DPXDC

Tim had no idea how he was going to pull this off. His eyes glancing from the Fenton parents to the boy he met yesterday, Danny Fenton. He knew he was dead. At least, was ghostly in some way. Danny didn't act or looked how Greta did, but Greta was visible as Deadman wasn't. So perhaps ghosts varied drastically? Either way, Danny being dead wasn't even the part that was bothering him. It was knowing he had to pretend he didn't know- while Danny sat right next to his oblivious killers. Well, the word killer might be too harsh. Tim theorized it was an accident regarding with a portal that opened on top of Danny. Which might also explain Danny's unique qualities.

---------DPxDC

“...Danny has traces of... Lazarus pit... stronger than yours.” Tim answered, with a concerned tone. They were afraid of how Jason would take it. And Jason was not taking it well, as he felt cold rage deep in his veins. The icy chill as he acknowledged that not only was Danny his blood... he shared the worse part of his blood. The reminder that they... Had died. Those scars... that was how Danny died and so far knowing their luck, he doubted it was painless. “Little Wing? Jay bird? You there, I'm almost at your location. How's Danny?” Dick called on the comms. Jason pulled the boy more into his jacket, giving him the best attempt of a hug he could. “Better than the fuckers who did this to him will be.”

------DPXDC

Danny had made an unfortunate discovery. His powers, like all ghosts, were based on emotion. Other's emotions. Even worse, the strongest one was fear. Fear fed on itself and grew stronger and stronger. And what made him discover this, made his heart sink with dread. He was stuck powerless in Gotham as his friends were laughing themselves to death along with other hostages in the room. Danny cursed at himself for listening to Sam. He should have phased them out of there, regardless of Batman's no meta rule. Now the only fear emitting into the room was his own. They were too far from others for him to feed off of, and ectoplasm was low. No.. more like the ectoplasm was being pulled away from the ground of Gotham and seeping into some other being that was far too greedy. “Well, well, well~ Look what we have here? A little party pooper!” A man with green hair and clown painted face cackled, as he waltz his way over to Danny. The black-hair teen ripped his eyes from his friends, glaring at the man. He gritted his teeth and clenched his fist, while he stayed knelt over his friends. “Funny, most parties I've seen at least has music.” Danny was feeling sweat dripping off his face. He needed to do something fast, but if he couldn't transform.. then he wasn't sure what else he isn't able to do. Not like this man looked fit, but... Danny knew danger when he sees it. “Ah, but this is music! To my ears at least, ehehehehe!”

----------CAMP CAMP

“Ah. Smell that, Gwen?” “Smell what.” “That fresh breeze! We had gone a full twenty-four hours without a single camp activity catching on fire.” “Huh, I guess you're right! This camp only smells half as shitty-” “Where's Max?” Both Gwen and David utter out in realization as it had dawn that neither of them had seen the troublesome trio since breakfast. --- “Don't worry Max! We'll save you once I finish chewing off my leg-” “Nikki! DON'T!” “Well... I'm fucked.”

#dpxdc #danny phantom #dc crossover #dcxdp #dp x dc #writing excerpt #peter kowalski #rockstar bully #bully scholarship edition #campcamp #campcampbell #impyelam #WIP #I just wanted to show some snippets #long post #jason todd #dick grayson #jazz fenton #danny fenton #bruce wayne #tim drake #crossover #fanfic

[topguncortez]

Don't Try to Be the Hero || Whumptober Day 5 - B. Floyd

whumptober masterlist || whumptober taglist form

synopsis: Bob always dreamed that one day he'd be superman, and one day that dream came true. . . almost

word count: 4.1k

@ailesswhumptober prompt: held at gun point

warnings: domestic violence, teen pregnancy, being held a gun point, gun shots, character death.

When Bob Floyd was six years old, his kindergarten teacher Mrs. Adams asked him what he wanted to be when he grew up and he responded with: 

“Clark Kent! Superman!” 

And the whole class burst out laughing. Even sweet, elderly Mrs. Adams couldn’t help but crack a smile at little Bobby Floyd’s answer. Bob was by far the smallest kindergartner in his class, by size and height. He had big, round glasses that would fall down his nose at the simplest things he would do. They had duct tape on one side of them due to Johnny Smith throwing a dodgeball at him. His parents didn’t have enough money to get him a new pair of glasses, so Bob had to deal with the broken pair until his yearly eye exam. 

The ridicule didn’t just end in kindergarten, it followed Bob throughout grade school, into middle school, and high school. Bob was a late bloomer and didn’t hit his growth spurt until his senior year of high school. At 6’2, Bob was scrawny, his ribs poking out. His dad encouraged him to join the football team, but the only position the coach would give him was waterboy. The boys on the team, most of them who had remembered Bob’s answer from kindergarten would tease him relentlessly. 

“Let’s see if you can get out of this, Clark Kent!” Johnny Smith snickered as he slammed the locker door shut with Bob on the inside. Bob was stuck inside that cold, dark locker for hours, crying and screaming, hoping that someone would come by and get him. And two hours later, someone did. Someone who Bob swore was an angel. 

“Holy shit!” She cursed as she opened the locker, “Are you alright?” 

Bob was mesmerized in that moment. The bright gym lights created what he swore was a halo over her head, as she looked with concerned eyes over his body for any injuries. His throat was dry as he reached his hand out. 

“I’m Bobby,” He muttered. She smiled at him. A genuine smile. Not one of those mocking smiles he usually got from girls. He noticed her cheerleading uniform and the bow in her hair. 

“I’m Y/N,” She shook his hand. 

That night, Bob had ridden his bike home as fast as he possibly could. He didn’t even let the tires stop spinning when he jumped off of it and ran up to his room. He pulled out the sketchbook that he hid under the loose floorboard from his father, opened to the first blank page, and began to draw. Bob had been drawing comics for as long as he could. Drawing himself like he was Clark Kent, with muscles and a ripped abdomen. Every time he tried to draw his Lois Lane, it never looked right, until now. Bob stuck his tongue out of his mouth, concentrating as he remembered the look on her face when she opened the locker. 

“Lois Lane. . . Y/N,” Bob muttered. 

And just like the real SuperWoman, Y/N seemed to always be by Bob’s side when he needed help saving the day. Bob had learned that Y/N was Johnny Smith’s girlfriend, watching them at their lunch table full of jocks. She always sat on his lap, even if she tried to sit in her own chair, Johnny always pulled her into his lap. The smile on her face was not as bright as it was the day she shook Bob’s hand. Bob had noticed, that even though it was lunchtime, she never did eat. She just sipped on her water and talked to her friends. 

However, Bob did notice her real smile whenever she looked at him. Usually, the cheerleaders practice at the same time as the football players. Bob would occasionally look over towards them just in time to catch Y/N’s eye on him. She would send him a small smile and a wave, and all Bob could do was blush and look away. 

“Stare at my girl again, Floyd, and I’ll put you in a grave,” Johnny threatened as he stepped off the field to grab one of the cups of Gatorade Bob had filled. Johnny crumbled up the paper cup and threw it at Bob as he jogged back out to the field. Bob looked over his shoulder and noticed Y/N’s frown at the interaction. 

Bob heeded Johnny’s warning and didn’t look or interact with Y/N. Until one night, when Bob was leaving the locker room after spending hours washing the practice jerseys and getting ready for the game on Friday, he found Y/N, tears running down her face, shakily trying to type on her phone. She had a red mark across her cheek that looked like it was going to start to bruise. 

“Y/N?” Bob asked softly. 

The girl jumped and turned to see him standing there, looking at her with concern, “C-Can you dr-drive me home? Johnny was supposed to take me home but he forgot.” 

Bob looked down at his watch, “Practice was over three hours ago. Have you been here the whole time?” Y/N bit her lip, deciding what to respond with. But Bob didn’t need her to answer, it was clear by the way she was shivering in the October air, “C’mon. I’ll take you home.” 

Y/N didn’t hesitate and followed Bob to his beat-up old truck in the parking lot. The second they were in the cab, Bob turned the truck on and cracked the heat up. Y/N let out a sigh as she felt the warmth seep into her bones. She gave him her address and Bob began the drive. 

Every so often he’d look over at her, noticing the bruise on her cheek. He couldn’t stop his mind from jumping to a sickening conclusion. He swallowed and sat up a bit in his seat, before looking back over at Y/N. 

“How’d you get that bruise?” Bob blurted out. His eyes went slightly wide at the sudden burst of confidence. 

Y/N swallowed thickly and looked at Bob. He didn’t need to say what he was thinking, it was clear in his blue eyes, “It was an accident. He didn’t mean to. H-He was just upset about practice and I wasn’t helping and I-” 

“It doesn’t mean he gets to hit you,” Bob said, sincerely. 

Y/N wasn’t sure what set her off, maybe it was the tone of Bob’s voice. Maybe it was the way that he looked at her like she was the most important thing in his life. Maybe it was the simple act of kindness by turning the vent towards her. But the dam broke, and tears started running down her cheeks. Bob had pulled into her driveway as she covered her face with her hands, her sobs echoing in the quiet cab. He parked the truck and wordlessly unbuckled his seatbelt. He didn’t say anything, just giving her a safe space to cry. Bob had sisters, and knew sometimes, all they needed was a good cry and someone to be there. 

Y/N let out a gasp as she raised her head and looked at Bob, “He’s a good guy, Bobby,” She sniffled, wiping her nose with the back of her hand, “He’s got offers from Clemson and Alabama, a-and he’s going to be able to provide for us and I-” 

“Wait,” Bob’s eyebrows furrowed, “Are you. . . Are you-” Y/N just nodded, knowing exactly what he was accluding to. Bob scooted over in the cab, so his thigh was touching her’s. He unbuckled her seatbelt, and Y/N all but collapsed into his side. He held her tightly in his arms, placing her head on his shoulder. Y/N cried until her tears had all run out. She lifted her head and looked at Bob, his blue eyes looked like they had tears in them as well. 

Neither one was sure who leaned in first, but it didn’t matter. Bob gently cupped Y/N’s face, his thumb wiping a stray tear from her pink cheeks. Slowly, gravity pulled them together. Y/N’s eyes fluttered from his down to his lips. She closed her eyes, as she felt his lips ghost hers, before closing the gap between the two of them. 

It was like a spark between the two of them, as Y/N sighed into the kiss. One of Bob’s hands moved to tangle in her hair, pulling just slightly. Y/N gasped as Bob slipped his tongue into her mouth. Her lips tasted like watermelon chapstick with a hint of mint. Bob’s other hand trailed down her body, feeling the soft curves under his hand. He wasn’t sure what came over him, but when Y/N tugged just right on his hair, he growled and shifted her body into his lap. 

Y/N moaned as she settled her legs on either side of his body. She rocked her hips against his, feeling him swell in his jeans. Bob’s hands moved to her thighs, gliding up the smooth skin and landing on her hips. He moved her back and forth, creating a delicious friction for the two of them. Bob’s lips moved from her’s to her jaw and down her neck. 

“Bobby,” Y/N sighed. She gently pulled him back, looking at him. His blue eyes were blown wide with lust, which made a guilty feeling settle in the pit of Y/N’s stomach. She shook her head and moved off his lap, “I’m sorry.” 

“No,” Bob shook his head, “I am. I shouldn’t have taken ad-” 

“No,” Y/N cut him off, “I wanted it too. You didn’t do anything that I didn’t want,” Bob nodded and Y/N gave him a soft smile. She ran a hand through his hair and kissed his cheek, “You’re a good man, Bobby Floyd. . . superman.” 

Bob’s jaw fell open as Y/N turned and climbed out of the truck. Bob watched her walk up the sidewalk towards her house. 

And that was one of the last times Bob Floyd saw Y/N. 

— — —

It had been 10 years since Bob had stepped into his hometown. Bob had joined the Navy his senior year of high school, shocking pretty much everyone. What was even more shocking was when his parents announced in front of the whole congregation at church that Bob had become a Naval aviator. A weapons system officer to be more precise. 

No one could believe it, but little Bobby Floyd was actually flying like he was Superman. 

He wasn’t the same scrawny boy that everyone remembers him being. He was still tall, but his once lanky body had turned into hard muscle. His cheeks had lost that baby fat that he used to have. His stomach, which once showed his ribs, now had a six-pack. His soft hands had now become calloused from hours spent in the gym and flying. But, even though Bob’s body had changed, his heart did not. 

It had been 10 years, and Bob was still madly in love with the girl who had walked away from him, Y/N. 

After that night in his truck, Bob hadn’t seen Y/N again. Her parents had found out about the pregnancy and sent her to live with an aunt for the remainder of their senior year. She had come back after a couple of years, with a little girl who looked just like her, and a ring on her finger. Y/N and Johnny Smith had gotten married about a year after their daughter was born. Johnny’s dreams of going to play for the University of Alabama had come crashing down after he tore his ACL during a game his senior year. Instead, Johnny worked at the steel mill like most of the guys who Bob went to high school with. 

It was late, and Bob found himself driving the dark streets of his hometown. There wasn’t much to do at 8:30 at night. The old farmers and their wives had gone to bed. There was only one bar in town, which was usually overrun with ranch hands and old drunks. Bob was going to keep driving around the old town square when he noticed the familiar beat-up Honda parked in front of the bar. His heart leaped in his chest as he pulled his truck into an available spot. 

Bob wasn’t sure what he was expecting when he pushed the door open, but he sure as hell wasn’t expecting the girl he had fallen in love with to be standing behind the bar. Her hair was tied up in a high ponytail, a white tank top on her body, and a pair of jeans that fit her just right. Her hands were on her hips as she was sassing back to some drunk patron. Her smile was bright, one that Bob had seen before. 

Noticing someone had walked into the bar, Y/N looked up from her conversation with Harvey, a regular who would come in and drink until he fell asleep at the bar. She looked like she had seen a ghost as her eyes locked with Bob Floyd’s. She felt like she could cry as she quickly rounded the bar and ran to him. Y/N threw her arms around Bob’s neck, hugging him tightly. Bob didn’t even hesitate to wrap his arms around her, holding her tightly. 

Y/N pulled back and looked at Bob, “God, you’ve changed.” 

“I’m still Bob,” He shrugged. 

“No. . you’re Superman,” Y/N smiled. Bob blushed at her words and looked down at his boots, “C’mon, let me get you something.” 

“Oh, I don’t-” Bob started to say but Y/N cut him off. 

“Lemonade or Shirley Temple?” 

“Shirley Temple,” Bob nodded, “And don’t be stingy with the grenadine.” 

Y/N laughed as she walked back behind the bar. Bob settled up on a bar stool and watched as she mesmerizingly worked making his mocktail, while also getting drinks for the other patrons that walked up to the bar. She set his drink in front of him and winked.

“What brings you back?” Y/N asked, picking up a rag and cleaning down the sticky bar top. 

Bob took a sip of his drink, “Lexi had her baby. Decided to come home and see the rascal.” 

“Oh yeah,” Y/N smiled, “I gave her some of Vera’s old baby clothes and stuff. Have you seen her yet?” 

“Do you want to see pictures?” Bob asked and Y/N nodded eagerly. Bob pulled his phone out and opened the photos application. Y/N cooed as she took the phone and swiped through the photos of the baby. Her heart swelled, her eyes filling with love. 

“Oh my gosh, look at her cheeks,” Y/N glanced up from the phone and looked at Bob, “She’s got the Floyd cheeks. Just like yours.” Bob rolled his eyes, remembering how everyone used to pinch his cheeks when he was little, “Don’t you roll your eyes at me, Floyd. They are adorable.” 

“Yeah well, enough about me,” Bob said and took his phone back from Y/N, “How about you? How’s Vera? And J-Johnny?” 

Y/N seemed to stiffen at the mention of her husband’s name. She glanced around the bar quickly, seeing who might be listening. It seemed like Johnny had spies everywhere she went, listening and watching her every move. 

Y/N leaned closer to Bob, “Vera is good. She’s in third grade now. . . living with my Mom in Colorado. I see her when I can.” Now that was news to Bob, but he didn’t question it. He knew that she probably had her reasons, and whatever that reason was, was probably for the best.

However, Bob did notice how Y/N didn’t mention anything about Johnny. But the look of fear in her eye when he mentioned his name was not lost on him. 

Bob sat on his barstool for the rest of the night, catching up with Y/N as she filled and refilled the drinks of the patrons in the bar. She made sure to keep Bob’s glass full, switching between water and a Shirley Temple. Bob noticed that her true smile had returned to her face, lighting up her eyes. It made Bob smile as she would laugh at something he would say, or how she hung on to every word he would say about different missions he went on. Y/N said little about her life, but she did say that she was going to school part-time during the day, and worked nights. Her parents had split about five years ago, her mother going to live near Denver and her father still living in town and working at the mill. 

Bob stayed until the last call and stayed with Y/N as she locked up the bar. She pulled on the strap of her purse and looked at Bob, “Do you think you could give me a ride home? I usually walk but-” 

“Of course,” Bob nodded. Y/N smiled at him and followed him to that same beat-up old truck that he had ten years ago. Y/N couldn’t help the blush that rose on her cheeks as she slid into the bench seat, remembering what had transpired the last time she was in the truck. She rattled off her address as Bob climbed into the driver’s seat. Bob nodded and reached forward to turn the heat on. It was like deja vu all over again, as Bob quietly drove through the streets. 

“Johnny works at the mill,” Y/N said softly, “I didn’t answer your question earlier. . . but he uh, he works at the mill.” 

Bob nodded, “Union man. Smart idea.” 

“Yeah,” Y/N whispered. 

Silence stretched back through the cab as Bob continued to drive. He wasn’t sure what it was, but he could tell something was off. He wasn’t sure if it was in Y/N’s body language or in the way she barely spoke about Johnny. He spared glances over at Y/N, as she looked out the window at the familiar streets. 

“It’s the yellow one with the red door,” Y/N pointed out. The house was cute and quaint something that was very much Y/N. Bob noticed that Y/N stiffened as she noticed a truck in the driveway, “Shit. He was supposed to be at work.” Bob’s jaw clenched as Y/N started to shake as she reached for the door handle, “Thank you, Bobby. It was nice seeing you again.” 

“Yeah, it was nice seeing you too,” Bob smiled at Y/N, “I’ll call-” 

“No,” Y/N shook her head, “No, th-that’s not a good idea. I’m sorry, Bob.” Y/N gave him a small smile as she climbed out of the truck quickly. She shut the door and moved with haste up the sidewalk to the front door. Bob waited until she was inside the front door before he pulled away from the side of the street to head home. 

Except, Bob didn’t go home. 

He wasn’t sure why, but warning signs were going off in his head as he aimlessly drove around town. There was something in the way her voice trembled as she spoke to him, and the quick way she got inside the house. Bob couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong. 

“Screw it,” Bob cursed, and quickly turned the truck around to head back to Y/N’s house. He didn’t even hesitate as he put the truck in park and made his way to the front door. He raised his fist to knock on the door when he heard the crashing sound of glass followed by a scream. 

“I didn’t do anything!” A female voice cried out. And Bob knew exactly who the voice belonged to. Bob didn’t hesitate as he rammed the door down, causing the wood. 

“What the fuck!?” Johnny roared as he looked at Bob, who was standing wide-eyed in the doorway of the broken door. Johnny laughed, shaking his head, “Bob fucking Floyd. Trying to place Superman now?” 

“Bob, leave,” Y/N said, from behind Johnny. Her eyes were red and he noticed a red mark on her cheek and what looked like a handprint on her neck, “It’s okay. . .” Her eyes glanced down towards Johnny’s hand. 

“No, no, no,” Johnny shook his head. And that’s when Bob noticed the gun in Johnny’s hand, “Bob Floyd wants to play Superman. Let’s see if he can survive this,” He raised the gun and pointed it at Bob’s head. 

“No!” Y/N cried. Bob lifted his hands in surrender looking Johnny straight in the eye, “Just let him go! He won’t say anything!” 

“Shut up, bitch,” Johnny spat over his shoulder, “Bob has always tried to get in on my girl. I told you I’d put you in the grave, Floyd.”  

“Let’s just think about this,” Bob said, slowly, “This won’t end well for anyone. Not you and certainly not me. But she’s right, I won’t say anything.” 

Johnny shook his head, “Bullshit, Floyd. You’ve always wanted to be the hero.” 

Bob looked past Johnny and locked eyes with Y/N. Tears were streaming down her face as she watched the interaction. 

“Let her go,” Bob spoke, “She’s been through enough. She doesn’t need to see you shoot me. Besides, if she’s not here, she can’t be a witness to testify against you.” Johnny looked over his shoulder, and then back at Bob. Even in his crazed mind, he knew that Bob was right. Y/N would be a witness to murder if she was here. 

“You heard him,” Johnny said, “Leave.” 

Y/N shook her head, standing her ground, “No. I am not leaving so you can kill him. He didn’t do anything.” 

“You stupid bitch,” Johnny growled and turned around to face her, “Do as your told for- shit!” 

Bob moved quickly, taking his chance to strike. He jumped on his back, wrapping his arm around Johnny’s neck, and pulling tightly, choking him. The two of them fought against each other, as Bob tried to get him to drop the gun. Johnny rammed his elbow into Bob’s stomach, making him groan in pain, but Bob never let his grip falter. Bob stumbled over to the wall, pushing Johnny’s face up against it. The man groaned as Bob grabbed him by the hair, slamming his face into the wall, hearing a sickening crunch. Bob grabbed his arm that held the gun and held it behind his back. 

“You think you can just put your hands on her and get away with it?” Bob spat, as he pushed Johnny’s face against the wall. He rammed his knee in between Johnny’s legs, hitting him in the crotch. 

“She’s a whore,” Johnny spat, “The kid isn’t even mine. She’s been lying.” 

“That gives you no right,” Bob cursed. 

Johnny smirked, “You love her, don’t you? So stupidly in love with a whore. She let you hit and you never thought twice.” Bob clenched his jaw as he twisted his arm again, making him groan, “But you know what they say. . . whore’s deserve to die.” 

It happened so quickly. 

One moment, Bob thought he had control of everything. The next, he’s elbowed in the nose and stumbles away, letting go of Johnny. And before Bob could even try and stop him, Johnny fired off a shot. 

“Oh god,” Y/N’s voice floated towards Bob. He looked over to the doorway, where she stood with a growing red spot on her abdomen. Bob rushed towards her, as Johnny ran out the front door. He gently helped her to the ground, pressing his hands to the wound. He could hear the distant sound of sirens approaching. 

“You’re gonna be okay,” Bob said, his hands staining with crimson. 

Y/N shook her head, tears running down her cheeks, “I’m n-not.” 

“Yes, you are,” Bob demanded, “You are going to be just fine. And you’ll get out of here and go see Vera in Colorado and forget about this mess. You’ll forget all about this shit.” 

Y/N shakily lifted her hand and placed it on Bob’s cheek, “She has your eyes.” Bob’s jaw dropped as a shaky breath, and he looked down at her, “Take care of her, for me.” 

Bob nodded, clenching his jaw and trying to hold back tears. Bob shifted her in his arms and held her close, feeling the beat of her heart beneath his hands. He knew by the time the ambulance arrived it would all be too late. 

“You’ve always been my Superman,” Y/N whispered, her eyes fluttering shut. 

“And you’ve always been my Lois Lane.”

taglist: @els-marvelvsp @sarahsmi13s @topgun-imagines @xoxabs88xox @cassiemitchell @seitmai @a-reader-and-a-writer @bradleybeachbabe @kmc1989 @senawashere @beautifulandvoid @ohtobeleah @oatmealisweird

#top gun imagine #top gun #top gun fan fic #top gun fan fiction #top gun angst #top gun maverick #top gun maverick fan fic #top gun maverick fan fiction #top gun maverick imagine #top gun maverick angst #bob floyd #bob floyd fan fic #bob floyd fan fiction #bob floyd imagine #bob floyd x reader #bob floyd x you #bob floyd x y/n #bob floyd angst #Robert bob floyd

[firelilyfox]

Stardust Dreams

part three (final part)

Wonka: Willy Wonka x female reader

Warnings: very fluffy fluff

Words: 1k

__________________________

The sound of the harbour bell announces the time and Willy was getting more nervous with every second. He was waiting outside of the library for the past fifteen minutes just to make sure he wouldn’t be to late. It was freezing cold outside and the falling snow laid down on his shoulders like powdered sugar. His fingers were tightly wrapped around some flowers, he bought earlier at the nearby flower shop. Willy picked different colors because he couldn’t decide wich one she would like the most. So he choosed the colors that he reminded him of her. Warm orange, like her smile. Happy yellow, like her charisma. Lovely pink, like her blushed cheeks. 

The big wooden door opens and y/n stepped out of it with a big smile on her beautiful face. Willys heart stumbled. She was like a magical figure that only existed in fairytales. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her, because Willy was too afraid that she might vanish and he would find himself waking up in his bed again, to realize this was only a dream. 

„Good evening, Willy“, she greeted him. 

Willy smiled. „Hello y/n. These are for you.“ He handed her the flowers and when his hand touched hers for a split second, he could feel his skin tingling. 

„Oh! They are beautiful Willy“, she said admiring and giving him a kiss on his cheek as a thank you. He had to lean down a bit, so she could reach it. „You must be freezing. Let’s hurry home. I prepared something to eat and after that … no. This will be a surprise.“ Y/n was thinking out loud. 

She took him back to her tiny apartment right above a bookshop near the gallery gourmet. The view was breathtaking, but Willy wasn’t interested at all in looking at the city lights. He only had eyes for y/n while she was preparing the dinner table. 

„I really want to help you. It feels wrong to just watch you do all the work“, he said. 

Y/n looked at him sternly. „Willy Wonka I invited you to thank you for everything you did today for my little sister and for what you did for Noodle in the past. And I enjoy doing it, so don’t worry about me.“ 

She cooked him a wonderful meal and they shared it by candlelight. It felt nice and easy to talk about all kinds of stuff. Laughter filled the room and Willy wished he could capture this moment to make it last forever. 

„Noodle is like a sister to me. Her mother took me and Ellie in, so they both are like family to us“, she told him. 

Willy frowned. „You mean you were adopted by her? What about your parents?“ 

A sad expression flickered over her face. „They are always somewhere out there. Mom and Dad are not made to stay in one place for a long time, so they asked Ms. Smith to watch out for us in the meantime. And she did ever since.“ 

Willy knew the feeling of being alone way to well, so he understand the little tone of bitterness in her voice when she speaks about her parents. 

„But enough about sad things for now“, she cleared her throat and got up from the table. „The evening is not over and I still have a little surprise for you, Willy.“ 

He smiled confused. „I thought the meal was the surprise?“ 

„Not at all!“ Y/n laughed. She held out her hand, waiting for Willy to take it in his. „Are you ready for some fun, Mr. Wonka?“ 

***

The music made Willy smile. 

Y/n lead them to a little tavern that was full of people chattering in the corners, drinking wine and having a good time. On a small stage was a band of five members and their were playing some joyful songs. In the middle of the room was the dance floor and some couples already danced with bright smiles on their faces. 

Y/n giggled because of the amazed look on Willys face. „You never visited a place like this am I right?“ 

„Well I saw many places around the world … but I never took the time to go into a pub or something. There were not much to find for my chocolate studies.“ 

She nodded understanding. „Well I love your chocolate Willy, but tonight we have other priorities.“ 

The lead singer just started another song and Willy had to speak a little louder for y/n to understand him. „And what are the priorities for tonight?“ 

„Having fun!“ 

Y/n pulled Willy to the middle of the room and started dancing. Her moves looked a bit uncontrolled and without a plan. He couldn’t help but laugh and joined her on this weird little dance-off. They had so much fun just jumping around and laughing until their faces hurt. After a couple of joyful songs, the band changes the mood and a slow rhythm started playing. 

„May I?“, Willy asked and reaching out for her hand. 

She smiled. „You may.“ 

Willy knew how to dance and he knew intuitively where to put his hands to take over the lead.  Y/n rested her head on his shoulder and he enjoyed the feeling of being so close to her. Although he hoped silently she wouldn’t notice his fast beating heart. 

„I need to thank you for today, y/n. I can’t remember the last time I was so carefree.“ Willy said with a lowered voice, so she would be the only one hearing him. 

She looked up to him. The warm lights where shimmering in her eyes and he almost lost himself in them. „I’m glad you had a good time.“ 

„Maybe…“, he started. „Maybe we should do something like this again … sometime.“ 

Y/n looked a little nervous and for a second Willy wanted to take a step back to not make her feel uncomfortable, but then she stood up on her tiptoes to kiss him on the lips. It was a soft kiss, light like a feather and before Willy even realized it was over. 

„I would love to do something like this again“, she said as the music speed up again. 

They danced for the rest of the night until their feet hurted, their hearts were full of laughter and the butterflies in their stomaches kept on flying. 

Willy knew from this moment on, that the feeling of missing something would never come back. He found the piece that he was searching for. And he intended to keep her forever. 

#fluff #willy wonka x reader #wonka movie #willy wonka in love #wonka fanfic #willy wonka #wonka 2023 #wonka x reader #willy wonka fanfic #wonka #wonka timothee #timothée chalamet #soft touch #soft aesthetic #dancing #first kiss #first date

[sailboatdreamer]

Back to the Night We Met - Chapter 2

After an awkward first encounter, you try and get back in Angus' good graces.

I had made myself scarce for the next day, only really encountering the others when necessary at mealtimes or right before falling asleep in the cold, dark infirmary.

I hated it. I felt like my initial failings had only managed to continue into the next day, when i could barely make eye contact with the others. I’d learned their names at least. The sour-faced blonde was Teddy Koutnze, and while he didn’t really seem- to me at least- very physically intimidating, he had a way of irritating the rest of us, and when Mary snapped at him over dinner, nobody said a word. Then there was Jason Smith, a mild mannered wealthy son of some business guy, practising civil disobedience by not cutting his hair, and therefore missing out on winter vacation. The two youngest were Alex, a mormon kid who’s parents were away on missionary, and Ye-Joon, a korean kid who couldn’t fly to see his family. Then there was Angus, who i’d regretfully embarrassed myself in front of only the day before. It didn’t bother me so much to run into Teddy as much as it did running into Angus, who’s snarky and annoyed attitude made me feel incredibly nervous. My avoidance of them all (except really for the younger boys) did not go unnoticed.

I was passing time in the expansive library certainly better than the one i’d been used to, when I encountered Mr Hunham doing his rounds.

“Oh! There you are.” He’d said. I gave a shy sort of wave. I was halfway through my copy of Catcher in the Rye when he’d arrived.

“You know, if the young philistines back there (pointing towards the hall) are giving you any trouble, you don’t have to stand for it, i know how utterly undignified some of them may be.” This had made me laugh slightly, only because it couldn’t be further from the reality, and it was the second time i’d been approached with this concern.

“No, no honestly they’ve been…. accomodating” i recall the help i’d gotten from Angus yesterday with a slight wince.

“Sincerely? Well-colour me surprised. I didn’t think they had it in them.” He expressed with a surprised look. I’d of thought Mr Hunham would’ve been a much nastier person, considering the disparaging ways the boys talked about him late at night. He was actually quite kind, and respectful, i’d noticed how much care he paid to Mary especially.

“Yeah, Angus even helped me with my bag yesterday.” I could see his expression turn to a slight shock, followed by a grin.

“Really? i- wow.” He gave me a nod of acknowledgement before turning and leaving, undoubtedly to go back to monitoring the boys, now with the newfound idea that they may not be entirely without saving.

Unsurprisingly, it took a lot to move me from my place in the library’s old leather couch. I’d even found a soft blanket that i’d used to cover myself, somehow avoiding Hunham’s exercise sessions, though his voice echoed through the walls. ”Without exercise the body devours itself!” I’d heard him cheer. It wasn’t until later in the evening, still in the library, trying to finish my copy of Emma, when i’d encounter another student.

He’d waddled in, perhaps not seeing me at first, after all i was pretty quiet. I watched him over the nose of my book, huffing angrily, and slumping down at one of the couches across the library hall. Angus. I didn’t dare approach him, he looked pretty upset already, but just as i was thinking so, he saw me. A silent exchange, i can only imagine i’d looked as startled as he did.

I noticed the small wound on his cheek had been patched up with a small band-aid, and an associated rip in his sweater had been stitched over.

“Have you been in here all day?” His tone is more accusatory than i would’ve hoped. His anger from whatever he’d been putting up with was seeping through.

“I may have… i mean, i went to go see Mary in the morning.”

He just nods with a huff. “And Wall-eye isn’t on your ass?”

I shake my head “I saw him. I let him know you helped me with my bags yesterday, he.. looked surprised.”

He just rolls his eyes, i don’t push it further. I know they all hate Hunham, he’s tough on them, a fan of discipline and ancient philosophy makes for a particularly tough chaperone.

“What’re you reading?” I hear him mumble after a minute.

“Emma. Jane Austen?” I watch as he studies the cover of the book, still seeming a little shaken up. “Right yes… matchmaker.” I nod with a slight smile, he’d read it.

“So… i see you got patched up.” i say, pointing to his bandaid. “yeah… fuckin’ koutnze…”

“What happened?” I press the topic gently, in a way I wanted to know if it was something more serious or just general scuffling between boys.

“I.. had this picture- in my luggage” He sees my expression change to confusion as he mentions luggage, if he was staying over, why had he packed up luggage?

“I wasn’t, actually supposed to be here. My mom decided the only time of the year she gets to see me would be the perfect time for a honeymoon with my new stepdad.”

God, what a shit situation, i think to myself, though i only manage to get out ‘im so sorry…’

He brushes it off with a wave of the hand, “Its me and my parents when i was a kid. Koutnze took it, i know he did, but he refuses to give it back.” He grumbles.

I wonder to myself if i can get it back…. i should. It would mean the exchange between Angus & i would be fair, and hopefully it could help us move on from our awkward first impression.

“What a dick….” I say with a scowl, met by Angus’ own.

“I know right.” I see him pick up my copy of Catcher In the Rye and we read together for another hour until we were called to dinner, and back to the infirmary.

A fair few of the boys were using the showers, and the ones that weren’t were outside, looking for Alex’s lost red mitten. I take this fruitful opportunity to find that picture, hoping it would bring me into Angus’ good graces, and restore a little of his faith back into this holiday.

After a quick and careful scavenge through Teddy Koutnze’s luggage, i find a small compartment, something that had been cut out in the side of his suitcase. A secret pocket of sorts, and low and behold, i reach in, and out comes the picture. It was unmistakeably Angus, though ten years younger, his stark and angular features, and soft brown eyes confirmed it in my mind. I slip the picture into my pocket and leave his things as i’d found them.

I left to find Angus, and just as i’d expected, he was in the midst of comforting poor Alex in the courtyard outside, who’s mitten was found, but had a small tear near the thumb. I approach them both. “look, it’s okay, Mary’s probably got some thread, i’m sure she’d be happy to fix it.” He says in a soft tone, patting the young kid on the back.

“Hey, do you mind if we talk for a minute?” I say quietly, meeting his gaze. To this he reassures Alex, and gets up, following me a few paces over.

I take the small, polaroid-like picture out of my pocket and hand it to him, watching his expression light up.

“You actually- you found it! How… where?” I was glad to finally see Angus happy for the first time since i’d arrived. “Some secret pocket in his suitcase… fucker is sneaky”.

“Thank you… really thank you.” He says sincerely, tucking the pocket inside his winter jacket. I shrug it off but internally i’m beaming “Of course.”

#angus tully fic #angus tully x reader #angus tully #the holdovers fic #the holdovers #paul giamatti #mr hunham #mary lamb #da'vine joy randolph #dominic sessa

[m-jelly]

can I request Erwin ad y/n reincarnation au. Like in Erwin's past life that takes place in Aot canon world he had a wife y/n and she was a captain in scouts too. Erwin in canon did die but y/n lived till the end ,single and with her daughter who was like the exact copy of Erwin . She found she was pregnant after his death and Erwin had written many letters for y/n with the thought that he might die one day and y/n can have something to comfort her. He had purposefully gotten y/n pregnant before that mission so that if he died y/n would have some reason to live ( it wasn't non consensual , Erwin and y/n were trying to have a child ) . So y/n lived for her daughter while serving for the scouts

Now in present timeline Erwin is a successful businessman and y/n is an attorney and owner of a law firm. Erwin meets y/n for some business purpose and when they see each other for the first time all the memories of their previous life just come back to them in a flash and they break down in each other's arms where y/n tells how hard it was to raise their daughter without him and how she was the only reason she lived. They both get married and have a twins , a girl and a boy who look just like Erwin

A family again

Erwin x fem!reader

Mentions of reincarnation, past lives, modern AU, fluff, romance, marriage, fluff, becoming parents, pregnancy.

Erwin sets up a business meeting where he arranges a meeting with your law firm. As soon as you meet, the memories flood back and the two of you restart the life you had dreamed of.

@ladycheesington @levisbrat25 @nyxiieluna @li-anne @galactict3a @youre-ackermine @thebobaprincess @2moth-anon2 @cypidity @nbinairyn @bts-spnlvr12 @mari-zs

Your feet were killing you in your heels, but you wanted to make a good impression with Mr Smith. It'd been a while since you wore heels, but they looked good so you wanted to try your best. You even more a nice dress as well. Normally, at the office, you had comfy things on your feet and body.

So, you sat on a chair outside the meeting room and winced at the pain in your feet. "Damn it."

"Heels bothering you?"

You kept your head down as your cheeks burned. You watched as someone with thick thighs knelt before you in a wonderful suit. "Y-Yes."

"May I?"

You presented your foot. "S-Sure."

He slipped your heel off and looked. "Mm, looks like they rubbed your foot."

You sighed and looked up at him. "The one time I wear them to impress."

He chuckled and looked up into your eyes. "You..." His beautiful blue eyes widened. He softly said your name. "Is it you?"

You felt a rush of emotions as memories stung and soothed you. Tears filled your eyes. "Erwin...I...I you..."

He smiled. "Me."

You cupped his face. "You're alive."

He closed his eyes and leaned into your touch. "I am."

You sniffed. "You have both arms."

He chuckled. "Indeed I do." He released a long sigh. "You are so beautiful."

Your cheeks burned at his praise. "You're handsome."

He held your thighs as his eyes filled with love. "I'm so sorry I died before we could have our life as a family."

You smiled sadly. "Well, you made up for it."

"My letters?"

You nodded and hummed. "And our daughter."

His eyes widened. "A daughter?" He smiled. "We had a daughter?"

"She was just like you." You laughed. "So ambitious and she helped out so much. She changed so many lives. You would have been proud of her."

He squeezed your thighs. "You're incredible."

"I'm not." You let the tears roll down your cheeks. "I was so weak without you. I wanted to...I struggled. However, our daughter was the only reason I kept going. I didn't want to leave her alone. I stayed strong for her, but I am ashamed of some of the thoughts I had." You sniffed. "What a terrible mother I was."

He hushed you. "I bet you were perfect. I just know our daughter loved you and felt your love as well."

You smiled sadly. "I gave her everything and I spoiled her too." You giggled with Erwin. "I couldn't help myself, she was so cute and beautiful."

"That's wonderful." He lowered his head. "I'm sorry I left you both. I'm so sorry. I didn't want to die. I wanted to live. I failed you and I felt that strongly when I died. You were all I thought about."

You wrapped your arms around Erwin's neck and held him. "That must have been awful."

He gripped you tightly. "I love you."

You clung to him. "I love you too."

He pulled back a bit. "I know this is a new life, but I don't want to waste any time. Let's start our life and family again."

You blushed. "Erwin?"

"Marry me."

You nodded with a bright smile. "Yes!"

Erwin smiled sweetly at his twins. Both of them were lying against his chest and sleeping away as they were soothed by his warmth and beating heart. Seeing two precious lives made from him and you made his heart flutter with joy.

The wedding came around fast and Erwin made sure he had you as soon as possible. The home you got was just out of the city surrounded by nature with plenty of rooms for children. It was your forever home and the two of you filled it with love.

You always thought you would have a daughter again, but instead, you got a surprise. Your twins were perfect. Evan and Daisy were the sweetest little angels who looked just like their father and full of curiosity. Erwin was truly incredible, full of life and love.

The two of you were always running around after each other giggling away. You didn't hold back on the love and romance like you did in your first life. You both wanted to give the other everything possible. You stole many moments together and went on plenty of romantic holidays. The two of you worked less as well.

You sat on the sofa next to your husband and smiled sweetly. "You three having fun?"

He chuckled. "Nap time."

You snuggled up to Erwin. "You're a wonderful father to them."

"I'm glad I can be here for them this time."

You played with Erwin's hair. "I've told you, Erwin. It hurt not having you, but you left behind the most precious thing for me. You were always with me because I had Daisy with me. She was the part of you that you left for me. She was all your love."

Erwin welled up and looked down at his babies. "Now we have her and Evan."

You caressed Erwin's cheek. "All my love."

He leaned over and kissed you. "Together forever, my love."

You hummed a laugh. "Yes."

He blushed a bit. "I was wondering."

You giggled. "I love you so much. Yes, I think more babies would be perfect, but let's wait for these two to grow up a little more, hmm?"

He smiled. "Sounds wonderful." He kissed you again. "I love you so much."

"Shall I help you put the babies to bed so we can do some loving?"

Erwin handed you Evan. "Please."

#aot fanfiction #fanfic #erwin aot #erwin snk #snk erwin #attack on titan erwin #erwin smith #commander erwin #aot erwin #erwin x you #erwin x reader #erwin smith x y/n #erwin smith x you #erwin smith x reader #jelly fanfics

[antiquarianfics]

Taken pt. 7

If Bucky Barnes could time travel, he would go back to that morning. He would hold you a little tighter in his arms, and he would kiss you a little deeper. He would pull your daughter in between the two of you, letting her giggle as loudly as she wants whilst her parents kiss her cheeks and tickle her belly. If Bucky Barnes could time travel, he would have told you not to go to the park—to go anywhere else. But Bucky Barnes can’t time travel, and his wife and daughter are gone.

a/n: we’re halfway through!! I’m sorry this part is shorter, but things are about to pick up!

warnings: swearing, blackmail, mention of murder, themes of conspiracy, canon typical violence.

note: I do not own the character Bucky Barnes or any other Marvel affiliated characters. Any and all characters are a work of fiction and any likeness to real persons is wholly unintentional.

You do not have permission to copy, translate, or repost my work; however, feel free to like, comment, and reblog.

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previous part | series masterlist | next part

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“What do you want me to do”

Morozov grins, pulls a paper out of a manila folder next to his laptop, and slides it across the table to you.

“This list contains the names of people who are keeping HYDRA from its full potential.

“Eliminate them.”

You cautiously pick up the paper Morozov slides to you, letting your eyes wander meticulously over the list of names presented. Your eyebrows shoot up in surprise as you read.

John Atkins, President of the United States of America

Elizabeth Fitzgerald, U.S. Secretary of Defense

Antonio Smith, U.S. Director of Homeland Security

Nick Fury, Director of SHIELD

Phil Coulson, SHIELD

Steve Rogers a.k.a. Captain America, Avenger

Your head begins to ache as you try to comprehend the names in front of you—the targets you’ve been given.

“You’re insane if you think I’m going to kill these people for you,” you say, bringing your attention back to the monster sat in front of you.

Morozov sighs dramatically.

“Again, Mrs. Barnes, I remind you HYDRA has eyes on your family. Each of our undercover operatives are trained snipers and combatants. Do you really think I’m bluffing when I say I’ll have your daughter killed? Your husband? Your friends?”

You purse your lips tightly.

“The names on that list belong to the people who consistently prevent HYDRA from realizing its mission. If I am to accomplish what our forefathers couldn’t, I need to eliminate any potential threats.”

“And what are you trying to accomplish?” You ask petulantly.

Morozov stands, letting his hands rest clasped together behind his back.

“I thought you’d never ask!” He sings out. “You see, eons ago, the ancient inhumans banished the all powerful inhuman HIVE to the planet Maveth. HYDRA has lost its way over the years, but our purpose is to bring HIVE back to Earth so that he may purify it.”

You scoff and Morozov glares at you.

“Steve Rogers, SHIELD, and the American government have foiled HYDRA’s attempts to bring HIVE back to Earth too many times. The HYDRA leaders who’ve come before me didn’t have the gall to eliminate such prominent leaders. That’s why I will be the one to bring HIVE home!”

“I reiterate, you’re insane,” you spit. You can hear the venom in your own voice.

“I reiterate,” Morozov mocks, “I will have everyone you love killed.”

Morozov presses a key on the laptop and a camera switches to whom you assume is one of the undercover HYDRA agents at the Compound. Morozov hits another button and speaks.

“Agent 0412, go to standby.”

You watch as the agent nods subtly before pulling out a gun, turning off the safety, and walking towards the Avengers living quarters. You suck in a breath. While you’ve been acutely aware that Morozov isn’t joking around, you hadn’t quite felt the weight of your own choices until this moment. You note that every choice you make will directly impact the next choice Morozov makes.

“Fine,” you concede. “Call him off and I’ll do it.”

Morozov grins before calling off the guard.

—

You’re sitting on a jet heading back towards the states. You wish you were headed home, but you choose to take some comfort in the fact that you’re at least leaving Siberia.

You check your gear, taking inventory of each gun and knife you have hidden in your suit and strapped to your body. Then, when you’re comfortable enough with your gear, you pull out a crumpled piece of paper that has the names of Morozov’s targets. You’ve chosen to move down the list so that you’ll start with President Atkins and end with Steve. You only hope you manage to break free from HYDRA before you actually have to kill anyone.

“Agent Barnes,” a gruff voice states, and you look up to meet the burly man speaking.

Ever since you formerly agreed to Morozov’s conditions of your family’s safety, you’d been treated more fairly and addressed more respectfully.

“Hmm?” You hum, having taken to speaking as little as possible.

“Hold out your arm, please,” the man says as he comes to kneel beside you where you’re sat. It’s then that you notice the metal case he holds.

Cautiously, you hold out your arm, and you watch as he pulls a large syringe out of the case. The man picks up a small device and loads it into the syringe. He then rolls up your tac suit sleeve and injects the device into your arm. You grimace. It hurts going in, and you can see a bulge in your arm.

“The fuck was that?” You ask incredulously.

“Your tracker,” the man responds dryly. “Dr. Frost asked me to remind you that you’ve nowhere to run. One move in the wrong direction and he orders the kill shot on your family.”

With that, the man leaves and you sit in silence for the rest of your flight towards DC.

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ko-fi

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Tags: @just-henny @jasminocano @browneyedgirl22-blog @barnesboo1967 @matchat3a @unkasworld @qwertyb2577 @raajali3 @yoruse @iilsenewman @alysianc @fairytalegirlofurdreams @marvelxlevram @casa-boiardi @buckybraneslover111 @hhiggs @smolracoon25 @questionableratatouille00 @heytheredemonsitsyourgirl @thearieunhinged @sebastianstansqueen @middaystarlight @talesofadragon @killerwendigo @ozwriterchick

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes #bucky x reader #marvel x reader #bucky x you #marvel fanfiction #bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky barnes x reader fluff #bucky barnes x you #bucky x fem!reader #bucky barnes angst #james bucky barnes #bucky barnes fic #bucky barnes fanfic #bucky fic #bucky x female reader #bucky x reader angst #bucky barnes x reader angst

[spencerreidswhore187]

Checkmate (Part One)

By @spencerreidswhore187 for @sackofpissandshit

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five

Summary: Spencer finds out that reader is not who he thought they were. (Lots of angst)

Pairings: Spencer Reid x Unsub (g!n) Reader

Word Count: 2.3K

TW: Death, violence, brief mentions of kidnapping, rape, alcohol/substance abuse and guns.

A/N: Hi! This is my first Spencer Reid fanfic and I’ve also not proof read it so please don’t judge if it’s not very good. It’s inspired/named after the song Checkmate by Conan Gray and influenced a little by the film Mr and Mrs Smith.

“I’m sorry Reid,” Emily whispered. When the team found out, they had to draw straws in order to decide who’d be the one to tell Spencer. Penelope had tears in her eyes and Emily chewed her nails down to the finger. None of them wanted to be the one to break his heart, not after Meave.

Spencer had experienced heartbreak before but not like this. Whereas before, when he watched the girl he loved get shot, his heart shattered into a thousand pieces. It hurt him so much, like a physical wound. But now? His heart was fine and, yet, it were as if the rest of his organs had shut down. He couldn’t feel anything. He was floating. He could see Emily’s lips moving but all he could hear was your voice, playing over and over and over again in his head.

Spencer remembered the day he told you that he loved you as though it was yesterday. It was late at night, stars splattered across the midnight sky; your legs were draped over his as you lay stretched across Spencer’s sofa. You both had spent the day binging the Star Wars franchise for what was probably the a hundredth (in release order, much to Spencer’s dismay.) You’d looked so beautiful with the crimson and azure lights reflected from the lightsabers on the TV dancing across your skin.

Your mouth was full of pistachio ice cream when the words slipped out, “I love you.” Spencer recalled the way your eyes widened - as if no one had ever said those words to you before. “I love you y/n. I love you, I love you, I love you.” Your lips stretched into a soft smile.

“I love you, too, Spence. More than anything, never forget that.”

Spencer would have sacrificed anything to go back to that moment: every IQ point, every novel in his possession, his role in the FBI. But no matter what happened, Spencer could not turn back time. He could not return to a time before he knew you were a killer.

—————————————————————

“He’s a fucking FBI agent.” Ben spat.

“No he’s not,” you protested, “he’s a surgeon.”

It’s why he had so many spontaneous shifts, why he’d suddenly have to leave in the middle of the night or during a date, it’s why he’d sometimes be gone for long periods of time.

You hated the way Ben laughed at you. You hated Ben. Full stop.

“How can you be so ignorant y/n. You are so god damn naive.”

“He’s a doctor. I swear.” Spencer wouldn’t lie to you. He’d promised you, the night he said he loved you, that he would never lie to you.

Ben slung an arm around your neck and pulled you into him, overwhelming you with the vile scent of alcohol and piss.

“Then fucking explain this,” he grinned, showing you a photo of your boyfriend. You lurched forward as you read the headline of the article: ‘Dr Spencer Reid of Quantico’s Behaviour Analysis Unit’.

It hurt. So much. This betrayal consumed you. You shoved your boss off of you and vomited. You could hear Ben’s laugh reverberating off the grim walls of the basement you were in as he stumbled away.

You scrubbed at your lips, trying to rid yourself of taste.

Your boyfriend, your best friend, worked for the FBI. And you were a killer.

You were eight years old when it happened, they’d grabbed you off the street as you were walking home from school. The police would have found you if they’d looked. Then men go took you did not wear masks, nor did they bother disguising themselves or the van they tied you up in the back of. It had taken your parents four days to realise you were gone. It had taken the police two hours before they gave up searching. No one had cared enough to find the little lost child. No one had ever cared about you, until Spencer.

You learnt quickly that the only way to survive was to do what they say. Deal drugs, steal, you didn’t care. You would do anything to live. And these men exploited that. They manipulated you. They corrupted you. They were the first people you killed. You slept better than ever that night, in an abandoned alley. Alone. Free.

That’s where Ben had found you. Ben, the leader of a minor gang, paid you to go after those who’d wronged him. The people who broke his rules - rapists, pedophiles, murderers. You enjoyed being a vigilante at first. But soon you learnt you could hurt them in way worse than death…Ben agreed with you.

You would frame them for crimes, rob them, plant drugs in their possession. You would stand from the sidelines at watch their lives collapse.

And now it was your turn. This was a strange sense of Karma.

You and Spencer played a game of Chess every night before you went to sleep. You were waiting for him to come home as you slipped a vail of hemlock into his drink and placed the glass next to the board. Staring at pieces, you heard the front door open.

“Checkmate,” you whispered.

—————————————————————

Spencer pressed his loaded gun firmly behind his back, breathing heavily as he climbed the stairs to the bedroom. He knew what would be waiting for him, the same thing that awaits him every evening when he returns from work.

You were sat crossed legged in your chair, leaning over the chess board analysing the pieces. You’d been playing this game for the last three weeks - both of you always managed to escape being checked.

You had a glass of water in hand and there was a glass for him next to his seat. Neither of you drank alcohol. Spencer had been sober since his drug addiction and you refused to drink after he told you that he was ten years sober. It was things like that, the small things you did, that made Spencer believe you were gentle and kind. He chided himself for being so stupid.

You looked up grinning at Spencer who was leaning against the doorway. He loved that smile. He hated himself for still loving it.

“Hey Spence.”

How could you be so glib when your hands are covered in the blood of innocents?

“Hi y/n,” he said, fist tightening around the gun.

“How was work? I saw or the news there was crash near the hospital. Did many people get-” you were interrupted by the sound of a gun cocking.

You abruptly stood up and stumbled away from Spencer.

“W-what are you doing.” You tried your best to sound scared when he pointed the gun at you.

“What do you think I’m doing? You are a criminal. You are a fucking murder!” Spencer did not feel guilty when you flinched.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Baby, please, I’ve never heart anyone. Please put the gun down and we can talk.”

Spencer had never noticed your tell before but it was clearer than ever, now. You chewed on the corner of your lip. This was all the confirmation he needed.

He would not be played like a pawn.

“Cut the act, y/n.” You searched his eyes but they were void of any emotion. Her loving Spencer was gone. Dead.

“What act?”

“You know what bloody act. No more games.”

Fine. You couldn’t help but think that things were finally getting fun.

“You’re not going to shoot me, Spencer, you’re an FBI agent. You have a code of conduct. You have morals.” You mocked, disdain evident in your words. “That’s right, isn’t it? You have doctorates but you are not an actual doctor. What you are is a fucking liar.”

That was the first time you’d ever called him Spencer. It had always been ‘Spence’. The facade was truly gone and he felt wretched.

How could you use him like that?

He walked towards you, pressing the barrel of his gun against your temple, forcing you to walk backwards until you hit the wall.

“You’re not going to shoot me,” you repeated.

And you were right. Despite Emily telling him to shoot if necessary, Spencer could not bring himself to do it. He was better than you. He had to be better than you.

“Yes I am,” he whispered.

He was not surprised when he felt the cold metal of a blade kiss his neck. Spencer had walked into your trap.

He was surprised, however, when a lone tear slipped down your cheek. His fingers itched to brush it away.

You looked up at him, “did it mean nothing to you?”

“What are you talking about?”

“This. All of it. You knew who I was…what I was the whole time and still you made me love you. You made me believe that you actually loved me.”

This was perhaps the first time Dr Spencer Reid had ever been confused.

“I-what?”

“Why did you have to make me love you?” You breathed.

“Y/N. I don’t understand.”

“You lied about being a doctor. You were undercover. You orchestrated this entire relationship just so you could arrest me. I want to, no, I need to know why.”

“That’s not true. I lied to protect you. My job gets people hurt, it gets people killed!” Spencer cried, “I lied to protect you!”

You pulled your knife away from his neck.

“I don’t believe you.”

“I would never hurt you.”

“You have a gun aimed at my fucking head!”

Spencer dropped the gun and kicked it away from the two of you. You were so close that your noses kept brushing with every movement.

He inhaled sharply, “how many people have you killed?”

“I-none.”

“Margaret Sheppard, Claire Daugherty, Travis Smith, Lance Chen and Aidan Keith. Do those names ring any bells?” Spencer pressed into you, his long fingers curled around your upper arms.

Spencer tried not to think of the nights of the murders, the ones you spent as a knot of limbs - not knowing where one of you began and the other ended. He tried not to think of the way you would gasp or how, afterwards, you would pull him to you, leaning your forehead against his, whispering sweet nothings into his ear. The betrayal was the most painful thing Spencer had ever experienced.

“I did not kill any of them. I didn’t,” you protested.

“So explain to me how they all ended up dead within days of each other. Their necks slit and an ‘x’ cut into their wrists?”

“Spencer, I promise you, I did not kill any of those people.”

“It’s your MO y/n. We know it was you.” Or, he thought he did. You weren’t chewing your lip. “You’re telling me that you have never killed anyone?”

“That’s not-”

“Don’t lie to me!” He shouted, slamming his hand against the wall. “Please. Please just tell me the truth.”

“I have killed people before. I have killed to survive. I have killed because I had to. I have killed because I wanted to. I have killed for fun. But I have not murdered anyone in the last three years. I have not taken a single life since the day I met you!”

Spencer couldn’t breathe.

You continued, “Margaret Sheppard drowned her newborn baby because it was crying too loud. Daugherty ran a sex trafficking ring, Smith and Chen took turns raping their 15 year old daughters. Aidan Keith beat his wife black and blue. They are…were…rich. They were going to get away with it. I did what I was told to, I made them stop.

“I stole millions of dollars from Sheppard. She had no choice but to claim bankruptcy. I helped every single girl escape Claire Daugherty before I put her in a coma. I planted very incriminating evidence on Travis Smith and Lance Chen - evidence that landed them both a life sentence in a high security prison. And Keith? I wanted to kill him. He was one of the men who kidnapped me when I was a child, but I didn’t. I saved him for last. I destroyed what mattered most to him: his reputation.

“I lied and I stole and I hurt but I did not kill any of them. I would not have done anything that would have risked my relationship with you, Spencer.”

He pulled away from you and started pacing around the room. You stood frozen as he reached for his drink.

I have killed to survive. Those words were replaying in his head (curse his eidetic memory). He wanted to know what you meant. He needed to know. What did you mean by one of the men who kidnapped me? Neither Emily or Rossi had told Spencer any of this. None of the BAU had. He mentally went through all of the cold case kidnappings from around eighteen years ago in the area but none stuck out. Were you lying? Was this some elaborate trick? A trap? His head was spinning.

Spencer reached for the untouched glass of water next to the chess board and took a sip.

You lurched foreword and pulled the cup out of his hand, throwing it against the wall. Tiny fragments of glass flew around the room as it shattered, water staining the wall.

It all made sense to Spencer, in that moment, as his eyelids grew heavy, you had poisoned the drink. That was why you had kept glancing at the glass. But, if you wanted to kill him, why did you stop him from drinking more? Why did you break the glass? The last thing he did before the world went dark was whisper “I love you.”

A/N: Thank you for reading! Part two soon ◡̈

#criminal minds #spencer reid #mathew gray gubler #mgg #spencer reid x you #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fanfiction #spencer reid angst #criminal minds fanfic #criminal minds evolution #emily prentiss #david rossi #penelope garcia

[karmic-vibes]

If I Can Dream

21 - Deep in my Heart, There’s a Trembling Question

art credit: @lazylittledragon on tumblr / lazyjunebug on twitter

cw: bullying, name calling, misgendering/incorrect use of pronouns

Year: 1995

“Papa, daddy, can I help you garden?” Bobby asked.

“Of course, sweetie, why don’t you help me pick some weeds,” Eddie said.

He explained to her what the weeds looked like and how to properly pull them up from the ground. He sent her over to the edge of the fence to pick up some where there were no flowers, so she wouldn’t accidentally pull up any of Steve’s perennials. 

Steve went back to watering the lawn as Eddie laid some mulch near the deck. Bobby was singing and humming to herself as she pulled up the weeds and its surrounding grass. As she worked her way down the fence, the neighbor’s kids, and their friends, stormed into the backyard. Bobby politely waved hello before returning to the yard work.

As she continued plucking up blades of grass, she heard the kids taunting her. She pouted and tried ignoring them the best she could, but their torments only got louder and louder as they approached the fence.

“What’re you doing?” The neighbor boy asked.

“Gardening,” Bobby smiled.

“No, you’re just pulling grass.”

“No, my daddy and papa said I’m pulling weeds.”

“Dad and papa? You mean dad and mama?”

“No… daddy and papa…” She pointed to her fathers by the deck.

“Where’s your mom?”

“Mom? I don’t have a mom.”

“Everyone has a mom.”

“I don’t…”

“Freak!” One laughed.

“I’m not a freak,” she teared up.

“Cry baby!” Another taunted.

“Go cry to your mommy, weirdo!”

“I don’t have a mommy,” Bobby sniffed. “I have a daddy and a papa…”

“So you have two homos as parents,” one laughed. “Go cry to your homos.”

Not knowing what the boy’s words meant, Bobby wiped her runny nose on her mustard yellow sweater, and ran over to Eddie. She tapped him on the shoulder to pull his attention away from the flower beds.

“Hey, bug, what’s up? You all done with the weeds?”

“Papa,” she sniffed.

“Oh, my goodness, you’re crying.” He brushed the excess dirt off his hands before pulling Bobby into a tight hug. “What’s wrong? What happened? You bump your knee again?”

“No…” She wiped a tear off her cheek as Eddie pinched her nose go collect all the excess snot (wiping it into the lawn).

“Then what happened?” He looked at his sad daughter, pushing her hair behind her ears as she cried.

“Mrs. Smith’s son–”

“Eric?”

“Mhmm, Eric was calling me names and told me to go cry to my mommy, but I told him I didn’t have a mommy, then he called you and daddy something, and he said I wasn’t doing the weeds right, and–” She ran on in one breath.

“Whoa, Bobbs, slow down,” Eddie said. “First of all, you don’t need a mommy, okay? You have two loving daddies and that’s what matters, okay? Second, ignore them when they call daddy and I names, okay? It’s not important and it doesn’t hurt us, so it shouldn’t hurt you. They’re just being mean.”

“Yeah, but–”

“Bee–”

“Papa!” she interrupted. “They called you names!”

“Alright, I tried being nice about this. You want revenge? Full blown horror movie style?” She eagerly nodded. “Let’s go. Don’t tell dad.”

The two snuck into the house as Steve continued to work his way throughout the lawn. Eddie dug through their stowed away Halloween decorations for something to scare the neighborhood kids.

“Clean your face off, bug,” Eddie muttered as he grabbed a damp washcloth. He properly cleaned her face before sliding on a Jason Voorhies mask. “Give ‘em hell, kiddo.”

Eddie made his way to the backyard and watched Bobby chase after Eric and his friends. Steve’s attention was finally torn from the yard work when he heard all the children screaming. He saw his little one chasing several boys with a fake machete and a serial killer mask.

“Edward!” Steve yelled as he stormed the deck.

“Yes, Steven?”

“Are you responsible for that?”

“Possibly.”

“Christ,” he sighed.

“I’m not stopping it.”

“I’m not asking you to.”

They two let Bobby run around a bit longer before Mrs. Smith scolded Eddie and Steve for letting their child do such a thing. The two snickered to each other before calling Bobby back over to the yard.

“Are you two really laughing? She traumatized my son!” Mrs. Smith yelled.

“Oh, shut it, your son started it,” Eddie scoffed. “Next time, raise your son to not call our daughter names. Alright?”

“Eric, is that true? Were you calling Bobby names?”

“No,” he lied.

“My daughter is a tough girl who doesn’t cry at much. Whatever your son said really upset her,” Eddie said.

“And you called my daddies names!” Bobby added.

“And you called us names,” Eddie reiterated.

“Eric, in the house, now!” Her son cowered before dragging his feet inside. “Sorry for disturbing you all. Just, next time, Bobby, please don’t charge my son with a fake knife, okay?” She nodded in response. “Thank you, dear.”

A couple weeks went by and Eric hadn’t bothered Bobby since—or so the boys had thought. One afternoon, as the two were getting ready to head out and pick her up from school, the home phone rang. Eddie, being in the middle of writing a song, didn’t even hear it, so Steve wandered off to the kitchen to answer it.

“Hello?” Steve answered.

“Hi, may I speak with either Steve or Eddie Harrington?”

“This is Steve, how can I help you?”

“I’m principal Gibbons, I’m calling to inform you of an incident that occurred earlier today.”

“An incident? Is Bobby okay?”

“Yes, Bobby is fine, Mr. Harrington. It’s just…” Principal Gibbons sighed. “Bobby has been displaying some violent behaviors lately.”

“I’m sorry, what? That doesn’t sound like my little girl.” Steve shook his head in disbelief.

“Mr. Harrington–”

“Please, call me Steve—Mr. Harrington is my father, and I’m trying very hard to be nothing like him.”

“Apologies, Steve. Anyways, she got into a fight earlier today.”

“She what‽” he yelled.

“What’s wrong?” Eddie called.

“Bobby just got in a fight at school.”

“Did she win?”

“Ed–”

“Did she win? It’s a simple question, Steve.”

“I’m not asking if she won! Christ, forgive my spouse.” Steve pinched the bridge of his nose. “We’ll be right down.” Steve hung up the phone and threw his jacket on. “Ed, come on.”

“We’re going now?”

“Yes, Edward, we are. Our daughter got into a fight, lord knows if she’s hurt! We need to go, now!”

Steve dragged Eddie to the car and sped off to Bobby’s school. They swung into the parking lot and ran in to meet with the principal. They found Bobby sitting outside the office, glancing at the floor, kicking her feet back and forth.

“Bobbs, what happened?” Steve asked, kneeling to meet her gaze.

“Did you win?” Eddie asked.

“Not the time!” Steve grit his teeth. “Bobby, I thought we raised you better than this. What happened?”

“Eric…” she whimpered. “He called me names again, then called you guys names, and then he said that papa is actually my mommy and I got mad and hit him…” She rushed out in a single breath, as she often did when she was anxious. “I’m sorry, daddy.”

Steve sighed in defeat as he pulled his daughter in for a hug. He gently rubbed her back as he heard Bobby holding in tears, sniffing back her emotions.

“You can cry, Bobbs, it’s okay,” Steve whispered. “Are you okay?”

“Mhmm…”

“He didn’t hit you back or pull your hair or anything, right?”

“No, daddy.”

“So you won!” Eddie threw his arms up in celebration.

“Yeah,” She giggled, wiping her eyes.

“We’ll talk to Mrs. Smith—Eric can’t keep doing this to you.”

“Harringtons,” Principal Gibbons called.

“Come on.”

Steve extended his hand to Bobby as the family walked into the office. Everyone got settled in the office as the principal prepped the paperwork.

“So, Mrs. Smith is threatening to press charges.”

“Whoa, what? No, absolutely not. Eric was the instigator here. Bobby was only standing up for herself and her family.”

“That’s not what Mrs. Smith and her son said.”

“I trust my daughter first and foremost. It wouldn’t be the first time Eric has started something like this, either. The Smith’s are our neighbors and Eric has a history of taunting Bobby. I can’t say I blame her for finally snapping.”

“Okay, Bobby, what did Eric say that started the fight?”

“He called me a ‘freak of nature’, said I have ‘homos for parents’, and that my papa is actually my mommy…”

“Eddie, Steve… we brought this concern up to you two when you were enrolling her.”

“But why should our lives have to impact hers? Yes, I’m a trans man and yeah, we’re two guys that are married, but that shouldn’t affect Bobby’s life. Especially her education. This is supposed to be a place of acceptance and learning, but instead you’re turning it into a place where people can openly bully her and then have her get punished for sticking up for herself. It’s not fair, Gibbons,” Eddie sneered. “People can call my husband and I all the names they want, but the second they bring Bobby into it, there’s gonna be hell to pay.”

“Mrs. Harrington–”

“Don’t fucking call me that.”

“Eddie, please,” Steve urged.

“Stay out of this, Steve. Gibbons, we love our daughter and we value her safety and well being more than anything in the world. Her mental health falls into that, understand? She is a good, sweet kid who doesn’t deserve this kind of treatment. I will be damned if she stays at a school where the staff openly allow her to be bullied, and one where I’m openly misgendered.”

“Eddie, it was an honest mistake,” Gibbons backtracked.

“Save it, alright? Let’s go.”

Eddie swung Bobby’s backpack over his shoulder and led her out of the room. By the time he was out the front door, Steve stood up and leaned over Principal Gibbon’s desk.

“With all due respect, Miranda, you don’t get to treat my family like this. Understand? Bobby is the sweetest child I have ever met—Eddie and I work hard to be sure of it. She would never hurt someone else without good reason. Hell, this is the first time she’s ever hurt anyone at all. She’s just a little girl who loves her family, especially her papa. She would follow him to the ends of the earth, and I couldn’t be more proud. I love my family and I’m proud of who we all are. How dare you think you can treat us like this.” Steve straightened himself out before heading to the door. “Bobby will be withdrawn as soon as we find a replacement school. One that accepts us, Gibbons. And if you even think about disciplining my daughter and not Carol’s hellion, then you’re going to have a much bigger problem on your hands. Understood?” She nodded and gulped back any response. “Good.”

Steve slammed the door and joined his family at their car. He ran his hand up and down Eddie’s back as he buckled Bobby into her car seat. He leaned over, resting his head on Eddie’s shoulder.

“We’re proud of you, bug,” he smiled.

“Yeah, really proud,” Eddie added. “What you did was super brave. I know I couldn’t’ve done what you did. Hell, I couldn’t even tell people I was a man until I was nineteen.”

“Wait, what?” Bobby asked.

“What’s up?” Eddie straightened out her jacket and rested against the door.

“You had to tell people you were a man? Do I have to tell people I’m a girl?”

“What do you mean, honey?”

“Do we have to tell people what we are?”

“Oh… I think I know what she’s getting at,” Steve said. “Bug… okay, I’ll… we’ll… let’s talk when we get home.”

Steve rushed the family home and ushered Bobby into the living room, where he sat her between himself and Eddie.

“So, bug,” Steve started. “Papa is your papa, but, at one point in his life, he wasn’t.”

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“Bobby, I wasn’t always a papa,” Eddie said. He looked to Steve and took a deep sigh. “I used to, technically, be a mommy.”

“How? You’re a boy.”

“You’re right, I am, but I was born a girl, and legally, I still technically am—it’s how daddy and I were able to get married. My name wasn’t always Eddie, sweetheart. I was born as Eden… not Eddie.”

“So, does that mean I’ll become a boy too?”

“Not necessarily,” Eddie chuckled. “I was always a boy, but I was stuck in a girl’s body. Now, through the help of some very nice doctors, and daddy’s support, I’m a boy in a boy’s body.”

“Oh… okay.”

“I’m still papa, and I always will be, but the whole reason you got here was because I was born as a mommy. Do you understand?”

“Yeah, papa, I do.”

“Okay… just know, there’s nothing wrong with who I am, and there’s nothing wrong with daddy and I loving each other. We’re all born as who we are and we can’t change that.”

“And at the end of the day,” Steve added, “we will always love each other, and we’ll always love you. Okay? We’re a little different than most families, but we’re happy and love one another… and that’s all that matters.”

#eddie munson #steve harrington #stranger things #eddie st4 #eddie stranger things #gay #st4 #lgbtq #lgbt pride #joe kerry #joseph quinn #steddie #happy #pride #steve x eddie #love #maya hawke #netflix #robin buckley #parent steddie #steddie dads #transgender #trans eddie munson

[returnofnonya]

From Thief To House Husband Part 1

Sometimes, life just deals you a shit hand. My parents both died when I was young, and I had been on my own since then.

I survived by being a petty thief. I’ve been caught a few times, but it’s all that I can do. I know the Holidays are times where stores step up their security, but I needed to steal some things to sell just so that I could make this month’s rent. I chose a high end mall where boring rich people shopped, knowing their security would be a bit more relaxed due to the usual clientele. I found a decent department store that sold a ton of knickknacks and chose the gems.

Everything was going well, until Mr. Suburbia found me…

He seemed to be some boring house husband shopping for his kids. He kept cracking jokes to the staff that seemingly knew him well and caught me stuffing my bag. He pointed it out to a security guard who quickly stopped stuffing his face with homemade candy and started to approach me. This would be my last strike, and they’d charge me for a felony!

I quickly dug through my bag and found a familiar black case. Inside of it were five vials filled with a dark blue liquid. One day, a guy traded me these for some stolen goods. Said that he was working for some shady company as a lowly janitor. Allegedly these would allow you to push your consciousness out of your body and into someone else’s, taking control of them. I tried pawning them off immediately and failed, so I kept them around for emergencies. In a panic I took a vial and tossed the case aside so they couldn’t take it with me. I locked eyes with the stupid dad who ratted me out, deciding that becoming my body would be a fitting punishment for making me abandon this one. I popped the lid open and drank it in a hurry before I collapsed…

…then woke up seconds later, watching security swarm around my old, now empty body. I looked down and saw the tacky penguin button-up and knew that it worked. They knew this guy well though, which meant that I had to get out of here before they noticed I wasn’t acting like him. I scurried over to where the case dropped, sliding it in my pocket and quickly rushing out the store, leaving his cart behind.

When I was in the parking lot I pulled out his wallet, finding a picture of him alongside his wife and college aged kids. “Rick Smith…what a boring name for a boring man. But it’s mine now I guess.” I sighed and pulled his phone out, using Face ID to unlock it. I checked his planner and sure enough, it was filled out with his agenda for the day. In fact, it has the entire family’s!

His wife was out of the country for business, and his sons away with friends for the day. He was getting his shopping done apparently, but I didn’t really care since I didn’t feel the love for these people he did. After finding a pic of his car I searched for it and got in, driving to the address on his phone.

I gasped in shock at the mansion I drove up to. Just yesterday I was trying to get my landlord to fix the lock on my shitty door, and now I had a house that looked like it could be worth billions!

I parked the car and rushed inside, heading to his bathroom first and stripping down to take a look at my new body. “Kind of basic, but there’s a certain fatherly charm you’ve got going…” I said and grinned as I looked at myself.

I was about to get to know my new body when the doorbell rang. I sighed and rolled my eyes, not bothering to get the rest of his clothes on and walking down to the door to open it.

I was greeted by a good-looking young man around the age of my body’s youngest son.

“Hey Mr. Smith, I’m glad you remembered-“ he cut himself off as he saw me standing in my underwear. “Remembered what?” I smirked a bit, looking him up and down. “T-that we were going to discuss Blake’s Christmas gift…are you sure you remembered? You told me you’d put a bunch of fake things in the family planner so he wouldn’t know I was coming…” Well, what a lucky coincidence.

“Of course I remembered, come on in, stud.” I winked at him, earning a quick blush. I sauntered towards the living room, making sure he got a good look at my body’s likely virgin ass. He followed slowly, trying to collect himself. “So as I was saying earl-“ I cut him off, “You know what I think, cutie? I think my son just wants to see his Dad happy. He’s that good of a son to me. And do you know what would make me happy?” I asked, spreading my legs open. He gawked, tugging at his collar. “N-no, sir…I’m not sure…” he said bashfully. “A good pounding.” I said simply, but confidently.

“I-I’m sorry?”

“A good, honest-to-god pounding. Like I used to get in college back before I got tied up to the missus.”

“O-oh…”

“So come here, and give my son his gift by making his Dad happy.”

The boy slowly came over, placing a hesitant hand on my thigh. I just chuckled and pulled him in, kissing him passionately and hungrily. Within seconds he dropped the shy act, stripping all of his clothes off and pulling my underwear off. He got on his knees, placing my legs on his shoulder and dragging my hips towards the edge of the couch. “I’ve wanted this for so long sir! I just thought you would never want this, you seem so happy with Misses Smith!” I grinned from ear to ear, petting his hair. “Well, I put on a good act. Speaking of good, you better get to it. If you can eat my ass well enough I’ll let you skip the prep and start pounding right away!”

That was all he needed to hear. He leaned in and slid his tongue into my hole, starting to swirl and move it ravenously. He ate me like he was starving and needed this to survive. My new voice’s moans filled the room as I titled my head back, enjoying the sensations of my sorely neglected hole feeling a pleasurable touch for the first time. My cock stood rock hard at 11 inches, surprising me. “Good for you, old man…” I muttered under my breath, the boy too enveloped in fulfilling his fantasy to notice.

Soon I had gotten all I needed, grabbing him by the hair and pulling him up, making him lay over me. “Now give it to me, boy. No holding back!” He smiled from ear to ear, a dopey look in his eyes. “Yes sir! With pleasure!” I saw his cock fully hard now, standing at a girthy 10 inches. What was in the water here? He shoved himself in eagerly, earning a loud moan from me as he leaned down, starting to kiss over my neck and slide his hands all over my body.

As I enjoyed the pounding all I could think about was the fact that this son of a bitch would absolutely hate this if he could see what was happening. His body getting fucked by one of his son’s good friends, defiling his marriage right in the living room! And most of all, some dirty poor thief holding his life in his hands!

“Harder!” I commanded, enjoying the pounding immensely. The boy was already sweating and panting, practically a dog in heat as he pounded into me, defiling his friendship with my new son. Both of us were sinners, and both of us were getting lost in pleasure. Soon enough he found my prostate and earned a piercing cry of pleasure for me. Like a dog with a bone he continued to pound into it, determined to impress me with his performance.

We lasted for a half hour this way until I finally came without ever touching my new cock, all over my chest and even getting a few splashes on my face. He didn’t last much longer after that and tried to pull out, but I quickly moved my legs to his waist and forced him to stay inside, moaning in another wave of ecstasy as I felt him shoot a load into me. Once he was done cumming I released him and pushed him out of me, chuckling and panting. “Mm…good job boy, you’ve made his dad very happy. Now…don’t tell a soul about this, and get the fuck out of my house. Send me an Amazon link to whatever he wants and I’ll get it, money is not an object.” I smirked as I laid there, inside of Rick Smith, a loving house husband now painted in and dripping cum from a man half his age in the house he raised his children in.

The boy was shocked by the new side of his best friend’s father, but obliged and quickly got dressed, fumbling his way to the door. “W-will do sir! Thank you, I hope we can do that again!“ he said before rushing off, leaving me to lay in ecstasy.

“Ohhh…thank you for reporting me, Rick. I never knew using those vials could bring so much pleasure. I wonder what I’ll get into next with your body. Or should I say who…”

#male possession #younger to older #revenge #male body possession

[vialovesyou]

𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗝𝗝 𝗠𝗔𝗬𝗕𝗔𝗡𝗞

" oh-oh my god" kelsey exhaled, holding y/n's hair back as she threw up into the toilet for the third time that night. kelsey glanced up at caitlyn who shrugged her shoulders." she can't go home like this" kelsey stated, rubbing the girls back.

it was halloween night, and mckay, a stupid rich kook,was throwing a huge party. his parents were out of town for the weekend and left with without a spending limit on his daddy's amex so the marble island in the kitchen was covered with alchohol.

jj and y/n had argued a few hours before, it started as something stupid but it turned into them both saying something they regret. y/n had showed up at mckay's with a strapless black bodycon dress, black stockings that had pink bows at the cut-off at her thigh and a fake gun in the holster. " mrs smith" mckay grinned, opening his arms for the brunette. mckay was dressed as hugh hefner, and y/n noticed his girlfriend, sienna, dressed up as a playboy bunny in another room.

mckay was one of the only decent kooks on the island, he was a nice person. his parents raised him like that. he was respectful, did well in school and never picked fights.

" where's mr smith?" mckay asked, walking to the kitchen with his hand on y/n's lower back. "that doesn't matter " smiled y/n, grinning at the array of bottles. " shots?"

that was how y/n ended up in this situation. she was able to talk at first, being semi illiterate before she passed out in the downstairs bathroom. mckay helped kelsey take her upstairs to his bedroom, before giving the two some privacy after bringing y/n some water and bread.

she was unable to talk at this stage, going in and out of conciousness to throw up as she layed on the bathroom floor with mckay's quilt on top of her to cover her dress which was pulled up far too high, her underwear on show.

" should we call jj?" caitlyn asked, reaching for y/n's phone that was on the counter top and quickly unlocking it. " yeah, i can't take her to my place like this. my mom's home" kelsey spoke, as y/n's head fell onto her lap.

kelsey began stroking the girls hair as caitlyn dialed jj's number.

-

" i don't know how you watch this shit" jj exhaled, uncrossing his arms from his chest as he glanced at sarah. john b had fell asleep long ago, his head on her shoulder as him and sarah watched some sappy rom-com. " why are you so grouchy?" asked sarah, a pout on her features.

jj had been in a bad mood since he stormed into the chateau, slamming the front door so hard that the full house shook. he had been snappy ever since. sarah knew that it was something to do with y/n since the only response she got when she asked what y/n was up too ,was a grumble under his breath.

his ringtone cut threw the air, cutting sarah off as a picture of jj and y/n flashed on the screen, her name across the top. sarah watched as jj cleared his throat, diverting his eyes back to the tv.

" aren't you going to answer that?" sarah questioned as the phone rung out. they were engulfed in silence once again, before it started ringing again. " jj" sarah urged, rolling her eyes as the boy silenced the call again.

y/n❤️

jj it's caity

can u come get y/n

she's really drunk

it's bad

we are at mckays

the adress is 57 whitehill lane

j 💌

i'm on my way

" i need to go" jj stated, standing up and picking up his shoes. " is everything okay?" sarah questioned, at the boys now frantic state but didn't get a reply as he slammed the door shut.

-

" yo, jj. my man, so glad you could make it " grinned mckay, dapping up jj as the blonde came into the kitchen.

" where's y/n " jj questioned, his face void of a smile. mckay nodded, understanding that jj was worried about his girlfriend.

" follow me" mckay spoke, beggining to walk up the spiral staircase with jj behind him. they walked down a ridiculously long hallway, before they stopped.

" she's in there" mckay spoke, gesturing to the door causing jj to nod. mckay began to walk away, but stopped when he heard jj speak. "mckay?" mckay nodded in response. " thanks"jj stated, smiling with his lips in a thin line at the boy.

" no problem, bro" mckay shouted, going back downstairs as jj opened the door. his eyes immediately went to the ensuite bathroom as he could see caity stood in the doorway.

" oh, jj " she sighed in relief, stepping to the side to allow jj to crouch down beside y/n.

" what happened?" jj questioned, lifting the girls head gently from kelsey's lap to his own allowing the girl to stand up.

" i don't know, she showed up and she was really upset. she started drinking, and crying. god, she was crying alot- what the fuck did you do to make her cry so much?" kelsey questioned, as jj stroked the girl's tear stained cheek as she was still asleep. " she came in here with blair, then i came in and blair was gone, and y/n was on the floor"

" shit" he muttured, guilt flooding his chest as the girl suddenly woke up. she turned her head to the toilet, coughing as she began to throw up. he wrapped his hand around her hair, pulling it into a make-shift ponytail.

kelsey kneeled down beside the couple, giving jj the plastic cup filled with water as y/n leaned back, falling into jj's chest. " hey, baby. drink this" jj spoke softly, using his thumb to lightly open the girls mouth. y/n blinked slowly, allowing jj to tilt the liquid into her mouth before she pulled away.

she blinked a couple of times, looking up to see it was jj. " hi, asshole" she slurred, accepting the bit of pizza caitlyn was handing her before taking a bite. jj laughed lightly. he was sat on the bathroom floor, his back against the wall beside the toilet with y/n between his legs. she leaned her head back onto his chest, taking another bite of the pizza having seemingly sobered up slightly.

she reached up and plucked the cap off his head, and put it on her own causing jj to reach down and push the front off the cap down blocking her eyesighr. " hey, want to fuck off?" y/n questioned, looking up at jj with her head still on his chest. he rolled his eyes, wrapping his arm loosely around the girls waist fiddling with the bows on her stockings.

#jjmaybank #jjmaybankfluff #jjmaybanksmut #jj mayback x reader #jjmaybankangst #outerbanks #obx

[munsonsreputation]

Teenage Dirtbag...

eddie munson x femcheerleader!reader

word count: [30.7k] not proof-read sorry

warnings: no use of y/n (brief mention of name "noelle" inspired by Wheatus) jason being an asshole bf (what's new?), violence, blood, cursing, a bit of angst close to the end, happy ending though (!!!), reader and eddie being oblivious to their feelings, mentions of verbal arguments (jason and reader), reader (18) + eddie (19), nudity but not sexually, a lot of pining....please let me know if I forgot any!!!

_

“Shit.” You muttered to yourself as Mr. Smith pulled your name from the jar and cheerfully ushered you in front of the class.

A held a tight smile widened on your face while you pushed yourself out of your chair and hurried up to the board wanting to get this over with. Mindlessly, your fingers fidgeted with each other before looking up at your classmates staring at you.

You started off with your name and hurried hello before diving into the prompt that all the students before you had to answer, “my favorite color is pink…but I also like black, so I guess I should say my two favorite colors.” mouth babbling while you corrected yourself and waved your hands around, telling the class to ignore you

“…and um the extracurricular activity I’m a part of is cheer,” the hands you had clasped together behind you undid themselves, pointing at your cheer green and orange uniform.

“You forgot your fun fact.” Your teacher reminded and internally you cursed yourself, quickly spitting out the first thing that came to mind.

“My name was actually supposed to be Noelle since I’m born in December, but my parents they uh — I guess they didn’t like it too much, so I got the name I have now.” You revealed stiffly, turning to your teacher, who smiled and nodded, signaling you to take a seat.

“Ok next we have….” 

You let out a small sigh once you sat down and turned your attention to the next student, who was sharing a little about themselves before feeling a tap on your left shoulder. His smile and tall hair greeted your surprised eyes, seeing it was Eddie Munson himself interacting with you. It was his third and hopefully last senior year so you’ve seen his face and heard his voice for the last couple of years but never did you once initiate a conversation with him—until today since you two had the same class for the first time.

“Nice to meet you, Noelle… y’got a pencil I could borrow?” Your eyes traveled to his desk where a notebook full of doodles was spread open with a small piece of broken lead.

Your head nodded, reaching for your pencil case. “You’re Eddie, right?”

He hummed patiently, watching you pick out a red pencil just for him, remembering he had shared his favorite color with the class a few moments ago. It was your first and most likely not the last interactions with the guy, but it went pleasantly well considering your vastly differing social status.

“I like your pick.” pointing at his neckline with the pencil where a beaded chain and guitar pick hung perfectly, then passing it to him.

He bowed his head in thankfulness and sat back in his chair, inspecting you. Half of your hair pulled into a ponytail with a green ribbon tied off into a bow and the rest falling down your shoulders. Your own neckline was complimented with a snowflake necklace paired with some matching earrings.

“Nice jewelry, snowflake.” He chuckled, copying your motion and pointing the pencil at the center of your chest where the pendant fell.

“Snowflake.” It was odd. No one ever called you that and you never expected Munson out of all people to, but it sounded nice coming from his lips.

Despite your inner thinking, you laughed faintly, taking the compliment before turning around and listening to the rest of your classmates’ introductions.

Another hour and a half was spent listening to your classmates awkwardly introduce themselves, followed by Mr. Smith going over the classes’ expectation for the school year. A few times, you would glance back to see Eddie in his own world, continuing to scribble and write notes to himself in that black leather notebook. Lunch finally came around and you were thankful that the classroom wasn’t too far from the cafeteria, so you were able to get in line before it got too busy.

Gripping the red tray tightly, you grabbed a few items before a voice behind you spoke. “Hey you’re Carvers, girl, right?” He was a freshman sporting a letterman jacket and green track pants looking your way.

His face was recognizable, and you smiled, “Yeah, and you’re Lucas! Friends with Nancy’s brother?” You proposed, following the line as you picked up an Apple 

“Yup, that’s me!” He gave you a toothy smile.

“Hows your first day as a freshie?” You spoke curiously, waiting for him as he picked up a carton of milk and you both made your way to the jock and cheerleader table.

“Alright, but I’d much rather be sitting with my friends over there.” He lifted his head towards another table across the cafeteria. You noticed the curly-headed boy Dustin and the tall one Mike, who sat with the so-called freaks with Eddie Munson, sat head of the table.

“…but you know how Jason can get…don’t want him finding out I’m in Hellfire or I’m off the team—you wouldn’t tell him right?” He leaned closer to you nervously, almost with a regrettable tone, but your reassuring smile eased his concerns as you shook your head.

“Of course not, I can keep a secret, y’know. I’ll see you around!” You patted his back as he took a seat and you snuck up beside your boyfriend, giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“Hey!” He grinned at you, pecking your lips immediately.

“Gonna sit?” He scooted to make some space next to him and you shook your head.

“I’m actually gonna go sit with Nance and Robin. I haven’t gotten the chance to talk to them all summer, so I think it’s good I catch up with them.” Your eyes tilted to the two girls sitting a few tables away all by themselves before turning back to Jason.

“Dont you want to sit with the other cheerleaders? You know, your kinda group?” It was a question, but it sounded like more of a demand, nevertheless you declined.

You peered down the side of the table seeing all the other girls conversing among themselves and shook your head, “You know they don’t really enjoy my company. I’ll just catch up with you all later!” You gave him another small peck on the lips before making your way over to your friends.

You knew Robin and Nancy since freshman year, sharing some classes together with each of them, but it wasn’t until junior year that the three of you formed some type of friendship. You all had news-writing together and instantly clicked and essentially became a trio for every project. The two girls were terribly wrong about their perception of you as you were a cheerleader from the beginning, so they thought you’d be like the rest if them.

Stuck up, hypocritical, and an asshole.

Needless to say, you surprised them with your brains, beauty, and charm, but what wasn’t surprising was the asshole boyfriend you had. They found it hard to believe that a girl like you had such a disgraceful boyfriend for the last year.

“Lookie cookie if it isn’t our favorite cheerleader!” Robin shrieked, nudging Nance as you got closer enough to hear, causing you to roll your eyes lovingly.

“Hello to you too, Buckley.” Setting down your tray and reaching over to give each of them a small hug.

“How was your summer?” Nancy asked, watching you take a seat and plunge the straw into your juice box, taking a sip before answering.

“Its was great, had a fun time in Florida with my family and now we’re back in this hellhole.” You sighed, looking around at the depressing cafeteria.

“What about you guys?” You took a bite out of your Turkey sandwich and listened to them.

“Got a job at the Family Video with Harrington—you remember him, right?” 

“How can I forget about Mr. Hair himself?” You said, causing the girls to break out into laugher.

“Jonathan and I got summer jobs at Hawkins Press, but the men were total jerks! I swear they only saw me as a personal assistant…they never ever took anything I said seriously!” she wailed sadly, with a hint of irritation in her voice. 

You grimaced, a warm hand coming up to rub her shoulder soothingly. Since knowing Nancy, everyone knew she was a passionate writer that took every aspect of her work seriously and to hear about her horrible experience made you feel terrible for her.

“I’m so sorry you had to put up with that, Nance—but hey, just know that me and Robin think you’re an amazing writer, anyone would be lucky to have you on their team.” Her mood lifted with your enthusiastic and genuine voice, a smile spread on her face and she mouthed a “thank you” 

Robin voiced her agreement before turning to you and changing the topic. “You and jock boy still together, huh?”

You bit your lip and nodded, looking over at his table to see him in deep conversation with his teammates, “Yeah, we just made a year, actually.”

Robin rolled her eyes lightly, watching you keep your eyes on Jason’s body before turning back to give them your attention. Neither Nance nor her were fond of your boyfriend of choice, but they were glad that you weren’t such a dickwad like him. They just didn’t understand you two.

“He treating you good? Making you happy?” Nancy sought out, taking a bite of her salad.

“Yeah, yeah…he umm, actually got us tickets to go to a concert in the next couple of months.” You told them picking up your fork to toy with the peas sitting on the corner of your plate 

“What band?” Robin asked, but her question fell on deaf ears as you continued to play with the wrinkly green veggies, stacking them on your fork.

“Helloooo, are you still with us?” Robin fluttered her hands in front of you, causing you to regain some sort of touch with reality.

“Sorry, what was that?” You shook your head and waited for them to repeat the question.

“What band are you and Jason going to see?” Nancy restated, and you cowered, not knowing if you should lie or fess up the truth.

Chewing your lip between your teeth caused your voice to be slightly muffled as you posed a question for the two, “Promise you won’t laugh?” Nance and Robin, who looked puzzled, nodded their heads in compliance.

“It’s a Christian concert—his parents actually bought the tickets after Jason told them that I wasn’t particularly the religious type.” You replied as they furrowed their brows, looked at each other, and snickered.

“Hey! You guys said you weren’t going to laugh!” Your foot stomped the floor lightly and voice whined, picking up a pea and chucking it at them as they dodged it and continued to giggle.

“I’m sorry, it’s just that we were expecting a band that you actually like! I don’t know, maybe ABBA, Madonna, hell even Bon Jovi!” Robin noted a few of your favorite artists that you adored over any church band out there.

“She has a point—I mean, it should at least be a band that you both like!” Nance defended Robin as they stared at you skeptically.

You shook them off and laughed a little. “Hey it’s always good to try something new, right? And you never know, maybe I’ll like church music and become a god-fearing girl that Jason loves.” You rolled your eyes freely, followed by your friends’ laughter.

Turning your head glancing over at Eddie’s table where he was standing eccentrically telling a story that captivated his friends and even you and you couldn’t even make out what he was saying. But you did see a flash of a smile that he sent your way as you waved at him somewhat before turning back to your friends. 

_

“Who in the hell makes us run a mile on our first day back?” His breathless voice rang behind you on the track field.

The one and only Eddie Munson dressed in his same attire, ripped black skinny jeans, a pair of chucks, and his infamous Hellfire shirt. Sweat beading on his forehead and his already messy hair was frizzing up due to the humidity.

“Hiya Munson.” You smiled, slowing down your pace to run next to him as he caught his breath while keeping up a jog.

“Shit…hi snowflake, didn’t know we had gym together too.” He coughed out, looking at your change of clothing, which was a grey long sleeve, a pair of pink workout shorts, white reeboks, and some tube socks.

“You didn’t bring a change of clothes.” You giggled, watching him crack a smile despite the pain in his side.

“Wearing short shorts isn’t really metal, if you ask me.” He glared, massaging his side as you continued to keep up with his pace.

“Would be a lot more comfortable, though.” Your reply made him laugh through the agony.

“What lap are you on? Can’t believe I didn’t notice you.” His arms moved slightly at his sides, continuing to run, never minding the red dirt ruining his precious shoes.

“Second…well now third.” You breathed as you both passed the flag marker.

“I guess cheer really builds stamina, huh?” He quipped as you nodded, shifting your focus onto finishing in time.

But still you kept the conversation going, “What’d you think? We just dance around a look pretty all day?” 

“Pretty much.” He answered as you nudged him slightly and shook your head.

For a second you were stuck on the fact that he basically called you pretty, but you threw the thought away realizing how stupid of you it was.

“Well, if you wanna get a good grade on our first assignment, you better speed it up, Munson, catch ya later.” You grinned, blindless ly waving behind you as your speeded picked up.

“See ya!” He shouted in this distance, finally taking the time to stop and huff out a much needed breath.

_

After a five-day school week, it was nice to have some relaxation on this Saturday with Jason. You practically begged him to take you to Family Video to see what movies you two would be watching for your little date night together. He wasn’t really the type to stray away from his usual schedule of playing golf and sitting at home watching repeat basketball games, but somehow you convinced him to change it up.

“Welcome to the Family Video! How can I—eeeek!” Robin’s sentence was cut off with her squeal as she saw you enter the store for the first time since she got a job there. She hopped over the counter to embrace you in a tight hug while you dropped Jason’s hand and hugged her back.

“Hey you!” You giggled, rubbing her back warmly before she pulled away and her eyes slid to Jason’s.

“Hi.” she said simply, giving him a half hearted waved that he didn’t return and instead laced your fingers back together.

As much as she wanted to call out his rude behavior, she shook it off, turning her attention towards you, “Anything specific you guys are looking for?” She inquired, leading you guys to the different aisles in the store.

“Ooo Dirty Dancing, by any chance? I know it’s popular, but hopefully you have it in?” You requested to Robin, who smirked and nodded, making her way to the back where she knew there was an extra tape that was just returned.

You felt a tugging on your hand and looked over at Jason, who gave you a conceded look. “Dirty Dancing, babe? Really?” 

You pressed your eyebrows together and dropped his hand. “What’s wrong? Nancy said it’s a wonderful movie and I wanna see it!” He rolled his eyes at your eager voice, causing you to feel ashamed for simply wanting to indulged in something fun.

“Yeah exactly, it contains dirty dancing! It’s a sin, you know, to be watching those kinds of things.” One of his hands rest on his hips as the other pointed at you, his demeanor like a father scolding you for taking a cookie out of the jar.

It honestly made you more irritated than guilty, now.

He shook his head and sighed, leaving you standing in the romance section as he walked over to the…you guessed it—Christian movies! 

Robin had made her way back to you, tape in hand, oblivious to the mini argument that you and Jason had a few seconds ago.

“Hey so I actually hid this one just for you because I had this gut feeling that you were going to come in and—what’s wrong?” 

She sensed something was off when you didn’t immediately jump and screech hearing she had the movie that you were looking forward to watch after hearing Nancy brag about it over lunch.

With your head shaking and shoulders hunched, you opted for the simply answer in hopes of Robin not fretting too much,“N-nothing, just forget about it, I don’t want to argue with him, anyway.” You explained, feeling the sorry look that Robin was giving you. 

The bell chiming caught your attention, and you turned towards the door hearing that voice, “Please! Please! Please tell me you’ve got what I’ve been waiting for?!” 

He wore something different, but not too different from his usual school attire. Metallica band tee and another pair of black ripped up jeans. He went straight to the counter where Steve was holding up the last copy of The Shining. 

“You’re the best for a reason, Harrington!” Eddie declared loudly, practically ripping the tape out of his hands and keeping it close to his chest, which made you smile a little. 

“I’m gonna look around, but thanks for the help, Robin.”

She nodded and went back to work as you strolled over to the thrillers, feeling inspired by Eddie’s passion. Thrillers and horror weren’t usually your thing, but you just wanted to see if there was something you could handle. Your fingers skimmed the different tapes, but sadly, nothing caught your eye. But you just so happened to catch him. 

“If it isn’t the snow angel herself.”

That same voice, but not snowflake…snow angel. Somehow it had a better ring to it than the original nickname he had for you, this was a lot sweeter, more you.

You gawked up through your lashes and beamed, seeing him standing across from you, The Shining still pressed up to his chest as his left hand held a bunch of other tapes that he seemed to snag despite entering the store only five minutes ago. 

“Hey, Munson..jeez, what’re you hosting a movie night or something?” You tiptoed to get a better peek at the different tapes he had that piqued your interest, but not as much as Dirty Dancing did.

“Actually, yeah, the rest of Hellfire wanted to do some sort of bonding thing, so movie night it is.” He told you, looking down at the movies he had.

“What’s do you guys do in Hellfire, again?” You truly never knew as Jason and the rest of the jocks and cheerleaders claimed it was some sort of satanic sacrifice club despite having any factual evidence, only the devil symbol that was used to represent the club. 

“It’s a D&D club. We play Dungeons and Dragons the fantasy game.” He informed you as you nodded. 

“This whole time, I thought you were sacrificing innocent children.” You scoffed sarcastically, making him crack a smile and laugh. 

The two of you continued to stare down at the tapes before you spoke once more. “I’d be up to learn someday, y’know, as long as I can get one of those cool shirts you always wear.” Your openness slightly took aback him and he wondered if you were pulling his leg or not. 

“R-Really?” He stuttered out as you looked back up at him and nodded your head eagerly. 

In his head, he was already planning an extravagant welcome for you despite barely knowing you and even weighting out the probability that you’d actually show up and enjoy taking the time to learn the complex game of D&D.

“Totally, I think it’s badass—“ 

Conversation cut short as the blonde’s voice came closer and went from pleased to seething at seeing who his girlfriend was chatting with.

“Babe, I found—is this freak bothering you?!” Jason was speedily by your side, cutting off the discussion that was going pretty smoothly between you and Eddie. 

“No, he’s not Jason, so please cool it.” You told him firmly, tugging on his sleeve, trying to get him to settle down. 

Eddie wanted to laugh seeing the jock so worked up over an innocent conversation between him and his girl. He almost forgot that you were romantically involved with Jason because of your differing attitudes. Despite your uniform and label as a cheerleader at Hawkins High, you were a total sweetheart, definitely a contrast between the other girls and jocks who hated Hellfire’s guts for no apparent reason.

Jason was still staring angrily at Eddie, who seemed to care less about the entire ordeal, just wanting to continue his conversation with you, but sadly, that wasn’t the case. 

“Why don’t we go pay, yeah?” You suggested to Jason, who, without saying a word to you, left for the registers.

“Sorry about him.” You whispered timidly towards Eddie,

He brushed it off, giving you an unphased looked and mouthing, “s’ok angel,” watching you trail behind Jason like a lost puppy. 

He kept his eyes on you despite walking to the other side of the store to browse any other films he thought the guys might enjoy while listening in on the conversation you and Robin were having on the side of the register. 

“You sure you don’t want Dirty Dancing? I doubt it’s going to be available any time soon after someone picks it up.” Robin waved the tape around in the air, tempting you, but you shook your head, looking at Jason, who was giving you those telling eyes.

Steve handed Jason back his change, and you turned to Robin for the last time, “I’m sure, but thanks anyway. I’ll see you, Monday alright?” You smiled at her before Jason practically yanked you out of the store.

“Uh…okaaaay that totally wasn’t awkward at all.” Robin whispered to herself, setting the tape down disappointed and watched you two drive off in Carver’s douchey ride that she hated oh so much.

She shook her head, turning her attention to her best friend Steve, who was now ringing up Eddie, and caught a glimpse of your goodbye.

“I really fucking hate Carvers’ guts.” She sneered through gritted teeth, Steve nodded in understanding while counting the money Eddie had passed to him. 

Robin rested her head on the counter staring at Steve and continuing on a little rant, “I mean, first of all, he’s just an idiotic asshole, but I can’t believe she’s dating him…really….I mean she’s too good for him. I know for a fact he’s the reason she didn’t get Dirty Dancing!”

Steve glanced over at her and gave her an apologetic stare. “You didn’t hear? He practically screamed at her when you left to go find the tape. I could hear his whiny little voice from the back of the store.” 

Robin sighed, knowing that it was pointless to trash talk Jason because at the end of the day you and him were still together and it didn’t look like it was going to change anytime soon. 

“Dirty Dancing, hmm?” Eddie surged into the conversation, checking out the tape and glancing over at Harrington and Buckley. 

“I’ll buy it.” He shrugged, startling them a bit as they watched him gather a few more bucks from his pocket and slide it over the counter.

Steve snorted, scanning its code and looking up at him. “You really going to watch it? Maybe even learn some moves?” He rose his brows, watching Eddie closely.

Eddie smirked, picking up his tapes and grabbing the change from Steve’s hand. “A better idea, actually.” 

_

Another Monday meant another full schedule of classes that you loathed—but you had to remember that this was your last year of high school before the real world. That you might as well savor the quote unquote simple time of high school before you’d be sucked into college and a new world of academic stress you weren’t looking forward to. Second period chemistry came by quickly and you sat in your seat, but not before waving at Eddie, who was early and already shooting you one of his famous smiles. 

You began taking out your notebook and pencil case, setting it up on your desk as you got comfortable hearing the bell ring and Mr. Smith standing in front of the class ready to get started on the agenda. 

“I hope you all had a restful weekend because the next two weeks are going to be filled with an introductory project.” He announced as the class began to complain loudly about how the school year had just started and they were still trying to get used to the new routine. 

Mr. Smith shushed the class, getting them to settle down and listen to more of his instructions, “Listen, I know it’s a bit soon considering we just started a new school year, but I promise it will be slightly easy because you will be working in partners—and because I’m nice, you will be able to pick your partners!” He spoke, somewhat easing the nervous students who immediately turned to their friends in the class, ready to partner up. 

“However, you must pass this project with at least a C or higher in order to work with your partner again for future projects, so I advise all of you to pick your partners wisely and remember this is not just about goofing off alright?” He allowed a moment for the students to find their partners and, to your surprise, as you were turning around to speak to Eddie, he had already leaned forward, ready to ask you to be partners. 

“Sorry!” You both let out a small laugh as he leaned back and watched you fiddled with your fingers, something you did out of habit, he suspected. 

“Partners?” Your voice squeaked a bit, and he nodded yes before grabbing his bag that was lying on the floor and opening it up. 

“I actually have something for you, partner.” He declared, following your brows rise with curiosity until he held up the tape with a bold grin on his face. 

Your eyes widened in surprise, “No fucking way! Are you serious!” You whisper shouted, feet kicking and hands thrashing around.

The genuine look of gratefulness and excitement spread across your face was enough for his heart to warm up as you picked up the tape and inspected the front and back of it. 

“Buckley told me you were eyeing it but decided not to pull the trigger, figured I’d just get it for you since I had enough.” He wiggled his shoulders freely as you grinned heartily and moved over to grab his hand, which he didn’t expect, causing his heart to skip a little and his leg to bounce rapidly under the desk.

“You really didn’t have to, but I appreciate it a lot… here, let me see if I have some money on me.” You withdrew your hand from his and went into your backpack, hoping to have some bills lying around. 

“Uh uh…absolutely not, angel, just take it as a token of appreciation for defending me against that boyfriend of yours.” He was half joking as you peered up at him and gave a tiny sorry smile for Jason’s relentless behavior a couple of days ago.  

“Gosh, I’m super sorry about him again. I don’t know what’s his deal, he’s always prissy, y’know, but maybe it’s just stress from basketball and senior year.” 

“Maybe he’s just a fuckin’ piece of shit” is what Eddie really wanted to say, but he held back, not wanting to turn the moment sour. 

“s’alright, just make sure you return it on time. Can’t have Harrington threatening to beat my ass, too.” He tapped his desk before settling back into his seat and watching your teeth catch your lip slightly, and nodding your head in a promising way before tucking it into your backpack like a prized possession and getting back to discussing the project that you two would be working on. 

_

You and Eddie both decided you’d switch between his home and yours to work on the project every few days for the next two weeks. And to alleviate some of the stress, you both decided on a specific topic you wanted to focus on so that you could already start brainstorming ideas about how you wanted to present it. 

Instead of heading straight to lunch as you always did, you made a pit stop to your locker, tucking the tape Eddie had given you behind all your books to ensure Jason wouldn’t see it and thankfully you had slammed your locker shut just in time as your lovely boyfriend had popped up beside you from nowhere. 

“Hey you.” He grinned, kissing your cheeks and lips as you squealed and laughed lightly, 

“Sorry, just had to put away some books.” You told him, leaning against the lockers and watching his face. 

“It’s no problem babe, I was actually wondering if you wanted to go out tomorrow for a little date, after practice, of course. Enzo’s maybe?” He proposed, but you instantly shook your head, remembering the crucial task you had.

“I actually have a chemistry project that I need to work on for the next two weeks—Eddie and I, we’re partners, so I’m heading over to his place to start.” Your voice told him willingly, not in the mood to try to hide it from him, but you noticed his facial expression falter from somber to outraged just hearing Eddie’s name. 

“Munson?! You’re partnered with him! Absolutely not. Are you insane? He’s a freak for crying out loud!” He practically shouted, increasing the attention of some students in the halls who were hanging around and walking towards the cafeteria, making you ashamed. 

You buried your face in your hands and rolled your eyes, hoping he didn’t see. “Would you stop with that? It’s all just a bunch of bullshit! Hellfire is a club where they play Dragons and Dungeons!” You explained softly 

“Or is it Dungeons and Dragons?” Your mind slipped trying to remember which was right, but you shook the thoughts and pulled your hands away to stare at Jason, who didn’t seem impressed with your answer.

“Look, if you really got to know the guy, you’d see that he isn’t as bad as you think. He’s actually really nice and sincere. I don’t think there is a bad bone in his body, honestly.” You confessed unapologetically, as Jason felt his anger rise to a whole other level, hearing his girlfriend defend that freak show whom he despised. 

“You—you don’t even know the guy!” He argued, fingers pointed at you sharply.

“Oh, and I suppose you do?” You crossed your arms sharply as you snapped back swiftly with a huff of a breath.

Quite frankly, you had it with Jason and his disrespectful comments towards people who he didn’t know. Simply making judgements off of them based on what they wore and what they looked like.

You pushed yourself off the lockers and glanced at him once more, “I’m your girlfriend and you need to trust me. He’s a good guy and we both really need to pass chemistry in order to graduate, so for sake, would you please just drop it?”

He didn’t have time to respond as you simply walked away from him and into the cafeteria, kinda just how he left you standing in Family Video last weekend. In need of some serious girl time with Nancy and Robin, who were waiting for you to show up. 

“Oh god, what’s the matter?” Nancy spoke quick and worriedly, seeing you show up to their table empty-handed and your lip curled up in displeasure. 

“Jason.” You muttered as the girls both rushed to ask a few questions. 

“Did he hurt you?” 

“What happened?” 

“You break up with him?”

“Are you OK?” 

You rested your elbows on the table, rubbing at your temple as you closed your eyes and took a deep breath before opening them and looking at Nancy and Robin. 

“I-I’m fine. We actually just got into an argument about Mr. Munson himself.” You mumbled, watching their eyes widen and shift towards where Eddie was sitting with his club. 

“You—you’re talking about Eddie Munson? The so-called freak, or whatever your lame boyfriend and his friends call him?” Robin confirmed, and you nodded. 

“We’re partners for our chemistry project, so we’re going to be working together for the next two weeks.” You explained as they nodded and sat back, trying to process the deep-rooted insecurity that Jason had towards Edward Munson. 

You bit your lip, taking a single glance at Eddie and turning back to them, “I honestly don’t know why people think he’s so bad, he’s genuinely nice…he gave me the Dirty Dancing tape I was going to get on Saturday.” You announced, causing Robin to gasp and sit up. 

“So that’s what that little shit did with it!” She whispered, a narrow grin on her face as she hit the table with her palm. 

“W-wait, I’m so confused.” Nancy closed her eyes, trying to figure out what the hell the two of you were getting at. 

“Little Miss and her boyfriend came to Family Video on Saturday and she so badly wanted to get Dirty Dancing to indulge in the graceful acting and rated x dancing of Mr. Patrick Swayze and Ms. Jennifer Grey, but she decided she didn’t want it and you wanna know who shows up and miraculously gets the tape for her?” Robin looked between you and Nancy as you rolled your eyes, ready for her big reveal. 

“Eddie Fucking Munson!” the words gladly left her lips, rubbing her hands together with Nancy giving up a tender smile, “Ok I will admit that’s a little cute.” 

“He’s just friendly. I’m sure he just felt bad that I didn’t get it for myself.”

Nancy and Robin shared an “are you serious” look. 

“He could’ve easily accepted the fact that you didn’t get the tape and went about his day with his thriller movies, but instead he got it and presented it to you today. I’m calling bullshit. That son of a bitch has the hots for you!” Robin drummed against the table, making a blush spread across your face as you shook your head, frantically biting back a shy smile. 

“You’re blushing!” Nancy giggled pointed at your cheeks that you hid behind your hands this time. 

“You guys are crazy! Look, I have the tape, so what do you guys say? A sleepover with some Dirty Dancing?” You removed your hands and wiggled your eyebrows at them as they laughed and nodded. 

“Sure, I’ll pick up Robin from Family Video after her shift, and you’ll meet at mine after practice?” Nancy asked you as you nodded 

_

You let out a frustrated scream, throwing your head back against the headrest of your car as your fingers twisted the key into the ignition and still the engine would not falter. 

“You! Stupid! Fucking! Piece! Of! Garbage!” You yelled, getting out of the car and banging on the hood, attempting to get it to magically start somehow. 

It was just your luck that cheer practice had extended for another thirty minutes and Chrissy was running late so she had asked you to lock up the gym, meaning you were the last one in the school parking lot with no one to give you a ride home. 

“That was an awesome campaign, man!” Dustin applauded as he and the rest of Hellfire had exited the building on the other side of the parking lot. 

“I know it was totally unexpected but so much—” Mike’s voice faded from hearing a girl’s shriek and the sound of metal being smacked. Their eyes followed your voice until they landed on you reaching into your side of the car for the hood lever.

“Isn’t that Jason Carver’s girl?” Gareth squinted, watching your tiny figure pop the hood of the car and let out another stream of curse words. 

As much as Eddie wanted to crack a joke, he held it back, seeing as you were truly distressed and on the verge of tears, “She has a name, moron.” Eddie found himself making a jog towards your side, letting out a small cough that caught your attention.

“Need some assistance, angel?” 

A relieved sigh escaped your mouth as you saw him come into view and you nodded, thanking him and watching as he instantly took the weight of the hood from you and peered into the inside of your car.

“Is it bad?” You nervously bit on your thumb, not noticing the group of boys that had formed behind you watching their Dungeon Master assist the cheerleader. 

Eddie clicked his tongue and looked over at you and nodded, shutting the hood and exhaling, “Your head gasket is blown and you’re going to need another if you want this baby to get you anywhere.” 

“Fuck.” You hissed, running your fingers through your hair and turning around, only to be startled by a bunch of boys. 

“Ohmygosh!” You bolted back into Eddie’s chest as he quickly steadied you and yanked his hands right back to his sides after you regained your balanced. 

“Jesus, give the girl some warning, won’t you?” Eddie scolded his friends, swallowing a chuckle he wanted to let out from your jitteriness.

The curly-headed boy bowed his head in apology, “Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you! I’m Dustin, by the way!” He popped you a smile as you nodded and gave him a small one.

“And you're Mike, Nancy’s brother.” You pointed at the tall boy, who nodded and waved. 

You looked at the other three men who you assumed were seniors. “Sorry, I don’t think I caught your names?” 

They seemed taken aback by your question considering the fact that no one usually acknowledged them, so instead Eddie stepped in to answer as he pointed them out, “That’s Gareth, Jeff, and Kevin. Sorry they’re a little star stuck that the pretty cheerleader is giving them the light of day—or I guess I should say night.” He looked around at the dark sky, then back to his friends, who stood in pure shock.

“H-Hi.” You said quietly, introducing yourself before spinning around to face Eddie, “I umm—could you, um, do you think I could get a ride?” Again, those fingers twiddling with each other and this time with the hem of your uniform. 

He instantly nodded, pressing a soothing hand on the small of your back, guiding you back to your car while the other fished out his keys and threw them to Dustin. “Start up my van. We’ll meet you there. I’m gonna help her with her stuff.” Dustin and the boys walked to Eddie’s van and the three seniors got into their own cars and drove away. 

“I’m really so sorry. I feel like a total lost cause around you.” You confessed to opening up the trunk to grab your bags, but Munson had beaten you to it, already slinging the duffle on his shoulder and picking up your pom-poms, which looked silly in his ring decorated hands. 

“Hey, don’t be sorry alright, things like this happen. I’m just glad you weren’t stranded here all by yourself.” He told you, watching as you shut the trunk and opened your driver’s door to grab your wallet and a few cassettes that you didn’t want stolen from any car thieves that might roam in the late night. 

He couldn’t help but think, where was Jason? I mean, yeah, he could be a fucking bastard to him and his friends, but he thought he would be the charming boyfriend who at least made sure his girlfriend made it back home in one piece.

You shook him out of his thought with your voice, “Yeah, thanks for that.” You smiled, locking up the car and following him to his van,

“So how was your day?” He asked you peering over at you laughing lightly at the ground.

“Besides my car breaking down out of nowhere, it was alright. Cheer was tiring, but when isn’t it right? How about you?” He slid open the backdoor, passing your things to the boys before shutting it.

Eddie spoke, while his gracefully pulled open the passenger door for you, “A little better than usual, we had a good campaign tonight…your carriage awaits.”

“Thank you, again,” you beamed, reaching out to caress his shoulder warmly as you got in and fastened your seatbelt, feeling the door shut and Eddie quickly sliding in the driver’s seat.

You turned your body towards the back where the two boys were sitting and gave them a remorseful look. “I’m super duper sorry for crashing your night. I’ll make it up to you guys one day. Pizza or something like that.” You told them as they both shook their heads. 

“It’s really no problem. You being nice to us is really paying us back if you think about it.” Dustin replied, making you grimace, thinking about how cruel the jocks could be to these innocent kids. 

“Hey, and I’m really sorry about my boyfriend and how his friends treat you guys. I know he thinks calling you freak is a bad thing, but I think you guys are sooo cool. A little eccentric maybe, but that’s what makes people special and one of a kind.” Your eyes slip towards Eddie without really noticing before turning back to Mike and Dustin. 

“Plus, being a jock isn’t as cool as people think it out to be, anyway. I mean, they basically sweat against each other at every practice and game. I’d much rather be in an air-conditioned room playing a cool fantasy game, if you ask me.”

A smirk plastered on your face as your hand reached over and gave each of the boys an encouraging hair ruffle, but your eyes failed to catch Eddie’s in the rear-view mirror that was filled with contentment just hearing you build up the freshman’s confidence and a little of his own. 

He cleared his throat, gaining your attention as you settled back into the passenger seat and he drove off.

“Why don’t we listen to what you got—is that fucking ABBA!?” On your lap was where the tape was resting and he quickly snatched it, inspecting the damn thing and scoffing about how cliche the music was.

“Hey don’t shit on ABBA, it’s pretty good!” You retorted, snatching it out of his hands and sliding it into the slot and “Super Trouper” blared through the speakers as the wind blew your hair in all different directions. You looked beautiful to him, just absolutely breathtaking as the night sky beamed on your face. He got lost in your voice and giggles and before you know it was over.

“Thanks for the ride Munson…oh and thanks for Dirty Dancing, again! I’m having a girls’ night with Nance and Robin.” You beamed, picking up your things and stealing one more glimpse at him while he nodded and tapped his fingers against the steering wheel.

“It’s no problem angel, I’ll see you tomorrow, alright?”

“Tomorrow.” You agreed, waving bye to him and Dustin as they drove off, leaving you and Mike walking up his driveway.

“You’re not as bad as I thought you were, y’know.” Mike spoke to you as he rang the doorbell, waiting for his mom or dad to let you both in.

“Hmm, really?” You turned slightly to him, watching his shoulders move.

“I don’t know, I guess I just thought all the cheerleaders and jocks were cruel idiots, but not you…and Lucas, of course.” He explained as you hummed in approval.

“Just remember to ignore the assholes, alright? It’s all inner insecurity, anyway. If they were satisfied with their lives like they claim they are, they wouldn’t attack innocent people for enjoying different things. And hey, you never know, the person you might think is sooo different from you could actually be just like you.” You patted his back with your pom-poms and heard him let out a chuckle.

“So basically, like you and Eddie?”

“Wait, wha—” before you even had time to ask Mike what he was talking about, his mother had answered the door and greeted you both with a warm smile and hug.

“Nice to see you again, sweetheart! Have you eaten?” Mrs. Wheeler asked, moving off to the to let you in as you shook your head no.

“My car broke down at school, so I actually had to catch a ride with Mike and his friend Eddie, but I can honestly eat whatever you’ve prepared. I’m not picky at all.” You assured her as she guided you to the kitchen, where she made you a plate of spaghetti.

“Do you mind if I made a quick call to my parents? Just have to let them know I got here safely and about my car.” You asked, watching as she nodded.

After a five-minute call with your parents letting them know you’d be spending the night at the Wheelers and letting them know about your broken-down car, they had let you go and reminded you to call them if you needed anything. If there was one thing you were really grateful for, it was understanding and patient parents who did more listening than disciplining.

“Thanks again, Mrs. Wheeler!” You called out as you made your way up the familiar stairs and into Nancy’s bedroom, where she and Robin were already waiting for you.

“Jesus, we thought you’d never show up.” Robin joked, getting up to help you put down your things as Nancy patted an open spot on her bed.

“Sorry I’m late, car broke down and Eddie had to drop me off here.” You explained to them as their gasped filled your ears, making you roll your eyes.

“I’m sorry, did you just say Edward Munson gave you a ride here?” Nancy blurted, patting Robin’s leg frantically.

“Calm down. We weren’t alone. Mike and Dustin were also in the car.” You told them, but still the squealing didn’t stop with these two.

“I swear Eddie is racking up these points, first getting you the tape you’ve been longing for and now being your knight in shining armor? He’s only known you for like a few days and he’s already going out of his way for you—this totally confirms that he’s into you!” Robin pointed earning Nancy’s support, while you ignored them and they kept talking amongst themselves of how head over heels Eddie was for you.

Instead of partaking in their delusions, you opted to enjoy Mrs. Wheelers’ home cooked meal and assurance that you knew Eddie was just being kind to you like he would for any other person. That’s just who he was.

Thankfully, as the night went on, the three of you got some homework done before settling in to watch Dirty Dancing, Nancy did her best not to spoil the movie too much for you and Robin since it was your first time seeing it, but she did let you know when the good scenes were coming up.

“Honey, you have a call.” Mrs. Wheeler knocked lightly on the door and opened it, holding up the cordless phone towards you laying in bed next to Nance.

“She can use mine.” Nancy offered, picking up her landline that rested on her bedside table as Robin paused the movie.

“Thanks.” You said quietly towards Mrs. Wheeler who nodded and shut the door.

Nancy passed you the phone, and you quickly put it to your ear, maybe suspecting your parents calling to check in, “Hello?”

“Babe oh thank god! I thought you were sacrificed for a moment there.” Jason’s voice was filled with relief as you sighed and shook your head.

“I’m fine, Jason. I’m just having a girls’ night with Nancy and Robin, alright? And how did you even know to call here?” You questioned, waiting for his answer.

“I called your house first, but your mom told me you weren’t home, said you were spending the night at the Wheelers.” He said, and you nodded slowly, silence filling the conversation.

“And I—I wanted to apologize for earlier today. You know I didn’t mean to cause a scene or make you upset. I just don’t like the thought of that freak hanging out with you. Who knows what he’s capable of? The last thing I need is to worry about my girl’s safety. I just don’t want him to hurt you or fill your head with sinner thoughts.”

You internally cringed at that whole speech that took him god knows how long to curate. If your boyfriend really thought that Eddie was in danger, then he had another thing coming.

“Just don’t worry about me, alright? I’m a big girl and you need to trust me. And look, it’s getting late so I’ll just see you tomorrow, alright?”

He grumbled and sighed, “Let me pick you up in the—”

“Can’t. Nancy is giving Robin and I both a ride to school, then Eddie is giving me a ride to his place to work on our project. Don’t worry about me….and um, I forgive you, I’ll see you tomorrow, Jason.” You said hurriedly, hanging up the phone and laying back in the bed staring at the pink ceiling.

“Well, I’m not even going to ask what was that about. Let’s just continue, right?” Robin glanced at the television and you nodded, hearing the movie resume as you proceeded to stare into space.

Did you even really forgive your boyfriend for what he did to you today? Or did you just feel like you had to cut him some slack because you felt like you needed to? Sure, you were a bit cold to Jason during the phone call, but his perception of Eddie and his friend group was slowly starting to get under your nerves. At first it was just normal banter between the two groups, but now it was just painstakingly obvious that Jason just wanted to make their lives harder for no reason and you just couldn’t take it anymore.

_

“One last run through girls!” Chrissy shouted, while you heaved, taking a deep breath to prepare yourself for the next round of jumps and flips.

Practice was stretching over half an hour later than usual and if it was any other day you wouldn’t have minded, but you knew that today was your and Eddie’s first session together. Hellfire usually finished the same time as cheer, maybe a little later but you should’ve known Eddie was considerate enough to end his game a little early to make sure he picked you up in time.

“Angel!” Your head jerked towards his voice echoing throughout the gym, gaining all the attention of the cheerleaders who stared at the freak leaning against the gymnasium doors.

“What the hell is he doing here?”

“Such a perv!”

“Scram you freak!”

Their snotty voices overlapped one another in hatred, causing you to roll your eyes and step up to his defense right away, “He’s with me.”

Their mouths held agape as their jeers completely ceased and you waltzed your way over to Munson, giving him a sorry look, “Sorry about them.” you whispered, rolling your eyes at the girls behind you, except Chrissy, who told them all to shush.

He snickered and shook his head, “Hey it’s not like I’m already accustomed to it…you uhh…ready to go?”

You rubbed your fingers together and shook your head, “We’ve got one more run through, but I swear it shouldn’t take more than ten minutes!” You crossed your fingers like a promise and he gave you a reassuring stare.

“Hey, hey, it’s alright…take your time, I’ll just wait outside—” He pointed behind him and you shook your head quickly, mouth not stopping yourself as you blurted, “You can wait on the bleachers! It’s freezing out…”

Gosh, you sounded desperate for him.

He laughed skeptically, glancing at the ogling cheerleaders behind you, “You sure they won’t be uncomfortable with the satanic cult leader in their presence?”

Rolling your eyes, you brushed the girls off, “They’ll get over it,”

“I’ll be over there then.” He pointed to some bleachers, and you nodded, going separate ways so that you could finally finish up practice for the night and not have to endure the comments and judging eyes from the rest of the team.

“One more run through, right?” You snapped as they finally jerked out of their trance and got into position, Chrissy giving you an apologetic smile before she called out the counts.

He watched you and only you as they tossed you up in the air and you held your pose tightly. It just so happened he never attended a pep rally, let alone any games, so he didn’t know what cheer consisted of. Thinking it was just girls screaming a bunch of corny cheers, which that was a little bit of it, he gained a new respect for it, at least for you.

When you finally finished, you said goodbye to Chrissy, the only one who was remotely nice to you, and rushed over straight to Eddie, who stood up and took your duffle bag from your shoulder. It was a kind gesture, something that you didn’t expect, but like you’ve been telling everyone, Eddie was super kind, and this was in his nature.

“I didn’t know you got tossed around like a rag doll.” He said while spinning his keys around his finger, his eyes lingering on your figure for a moment.

You giggle and shook your shoulders, “It’s like second nature to me….and um, sorry for the girls again, they’re really shallow.” You really felt the need to apologize again for putting him in this situation, as you could still faintly hear them snickering while you and Eddie finally exited the sticky gym.

He stopped for a moment, catching your right hand that was swinging, “Angel, what they say really doesn’t affect me anymore, so don’t stress that pretty little head of yours, alright?”

The sudden but simplest physical contact caused your breath to hitch and your heart to flutter. You couldn’t pinpoint where these feelings were coming from, but it wasn’t uncomfortable for you. It just felt different, but a pleasant different.

“Y—yeah…I know, I just umm…I have this stupid habit of apologizing like a million times.” You stuttered out quickly and finally his touch dropped from yours.

“You can do no wrong in my eyes, so don’t ever think you have to apologize to me.” He continued walking towards his van sticking the key into the passenger to unlock to door

“…especially for something you didn’t do.” He added with a smile, holding the door open for you.

“Thanks Eds.” You grinned, settling into your seat.

The drive to the trailer park wasn’t too long, only about a ten-minute drive, but during the ride you and Eddie were able to strike up a conversation about his D&D tonight and how all the boys had a great time with it. You didn’t quite wrap your head around the whole game at first, but it was starting to make a lot more sense as Eddie explained it further. Finally, you arrived at the trailer park and you anticipated being in his personal space for a few hours.

He stumbled a bit through him and his uncle’s trailer, trying to pick some things up and at least make the place look half decent while you stood in the middle of the living room watching him frantically clean.

“Eddie, really, it’s fine.” Your small voice said, shoulders coming together as he finally turned his attention to you and sighed.

“I really should’ve cleaned this place up before I left this morning. I swear I don’t live in a dump.” He held his hands up in defense and you waved him off and smiled, taking a small walk around the area.

The walls were littered with a few pictures that looked like it was from his childhood and there was a small coffee table sitting in the middle of the room where the tapes he bought over the weekend were scattered.

“You live here all by yourself?” You sought, fingers brushing over the walls and smiling at what looked like a baby Eddie dressed up as a cowboy for Halloween.

He came up beside you shook his head. “With my uncle actually, but he works night shifts, so I don’t see him too much unless it’s on the weekends.”

You nodded and finally tore your eyes away from the photograph meeting his, “Do you wanna work in your bedroom or the living room?”

He shuffled around for a second before motioning you to follow him down the narrow hall into a room that you knew was his. A dark red guitar hanging up against his mirror, a plethora of posters stuck to the wall, and a bed that had no headboard or footboard in the room's corner. It wasn’t your style, but it was definitely Eddie’s and despite the room’s limited space, you liked the atmosphere.

“Cozy.” You murmured with a small smile, taking in the personality of his room, setting down your things and taking a seat on the carpeted floor.

“Are you sure this is ok?” He asked anxiously, watching you get comfortable rather quickly

You nodded reassuring, patting the space in front of you so he could get the hint to join, “I like it…really fits the whole look you have going on. Metal.”

“Metal.” He purred, smile inching up on his face before he turned to grab his books to actually use for studying for what seemed like the first time in a long time.

Eddie couldn’t help but stare at you a few times out of the night, basking in your beauty, which in reality were smudged eyeliner and mascara and an oily forehead due to practice a few hours earlier.

Trailing your eyes up from your notes, you could see Eddie staring at you intentlu,“You ok over there?”

He jerked and coughly stiffly out of embaressment of being caught, but you found it to be rather cute, offering a snorted laugh which seemed to ease him a bit.

“Yeah, yeah I’m fine…sorry I thought there was something on your face, but it was just the moon shining.” His fingers widened, imitating the light that was flickering in through his thin curtains and highlighting your features as your cheeks blushed.

“You flirt with all the girls who bring around here?” A teasing statement left your lips, and he grunted, shaking his head with a smirk.

“Me?! Flirting?! Bringing girls around here?! Angel you’re the only girl I’ve brought home, but if your boyfriend found out, he’d kick me ass.” He countered back watching you laugh lightly before a frown covered your face at the mention of your boyfriend.

You knew Jason had no limits. If he had found out about you and Eddie’s innocent interactions like these, he’d lose his shit and target Eddie, making his life even harder. Definitely not what you wanted.

Your legs stretched out straight as you shoved your notebook off to the side in the pile with the rest of your stuff. Sighing deeply, you stared back up at Eddie who’s back rested against his dresser, following your every move.

“Jason can be a bit much…all the time actually. Got into a fight yesterday, and it wasn’t pretty.” You admitted, voice filled with disappointment and a twinge of sadness.

He frowned, tossing his notes to the side as he maneuvered a little to sit closer next to you, “You ok? He didn’t hurt you or anything, right?” The question left his lips before he could even stop and you nodded, making sure he knew you were alright.

“No, no, no, he didn’t put his hands on me. Our fights are more verbal than anything. It’s kind of like mixing gasoline with fire when it comes to him and I. When we fight it gets ugly, none of us want to be wrong….though I’m usually always right.”

The smile that broke out on your face wasn’t sincere, and he could tell. It was almost like a pitiful expression to try to get him to think that everything was ok, but he could read you. It was easy. At least for him to notice. He just listened as you continued to talk. He liked hearing your voice….not so much hearing about all the things Jason did to upset you, but if it helped to get it off your chest, then he was more than willing to sit here with you all night.

For some reason, you felt comfortable sharing this information with Eddie. Usually, you’d keep the arguments that you and Jason had between you and him, only really confiding in Nancy or Robin when you were extremely pissed. But you felt OK to share it now, and you didn’t know if it was the coziness of Eddie’s room or simply the safeness that you felt, but you were OK.

Once you realized you had gotten off track and disregarded the project, you caught yourself instantly going into apologizing mode, “Sorry, I’m rambling. It’s a habit.” You withdrew, feeling yourself becoming a bit too comfortable, and Eddie shook it off offering a reassuring smile that made you feel warm.

“‘s’lright, you can always talk to me, if it makes you feel better.”

That made you smile from ear to ear whispiring a soft and quiet “thank you,” before getting back to work.

To you and Eddie’s surprise, the night went fairly well as progress was made for the chem project and you two were easily able to hold a comfortable conversation without fearing judgement or awkward silence. He made you laugh a countless amount of times throughout the night whether it was mocking Mr. Smith’s boring lectures, hearing his horrible gym stories, and attempting a cheer with your poms. Hell, he even played some ABBA and Madonna for motivation after you wanted to give up and take a failing grade.

For the night, he made you forget about all the issues you were facing. It was more than nice. You wish you could spend every night like this.

_

Despite the dislikes of Jason, he learned to deal with it, knowing that you were going to stand your ground and not switch out being partners with Eddie. The last few days were hell for the jock, needing to watch you get into Munson’s car and drive off to his place or yours in order to work on the project while he could do nothing but stay pissed at both you and Eddie. But of course, he’s Jason Carver. He always has a vindictive plan up his sleeve.

He trusted you, but definitively not Munson. He had to make sure Eddie knew you were his girl and his only. That his satanic ways would not get the best of you. He spent the last few days being extra touchy for no apparent reason, purposefully pulling you into kisses that turned into make-out sessions in the middle of the hallway when Eddie would cruise by or right before you’d hop into Eddie’s car and drive off to work.

You never noticed Eddie’s presence and assumed that Jason just really wanted to makeup for being a dick to you, but it was never really that. And today was no different. Before you could even take a seat at his lunch table, he pulled you into his lap and roughly pressed his lips against yours in a scorchingly uncomfortable kiss.

Then there was Eddie, glaring in distaste as he heard you squeal loudly and press your hands on Jason’s chest to shove him away, dying of embarrassment at everyone watching.

“Jesus, they need a fucking room.” Mike gagged from his lunch table, turning away as you wiped your mouth with the back of your hand, not noticing Jason turning his attention to Eddie.

“Fuck you, freak.” Jason would mouth, flipping Munson the bird, while Eddie graciously returned it with a scowl.

“The fuck is his deal?” Eddie turned over to his boys, who looked disturbed and genuinely about to vomit after witnessing such PDA.

Dustin rolled his eyes with a grunt, cramming some chips into his mouth. “His deal? Really? Please tell me you didn’t ask the most obvious question?”

The young boy watched Eddie’s face fall in bewilderment, and he groaned. “You are totally oblivious, aren’t you?” Dustin tossed the chip bag down, licking the Cheeto dust off his fingers as Eddie’s face scrunched up in repulsion.

“Jason is jealous of the time you and her and spending—thinks you’re going to take her away from him.” Dustin explained, and the other guys agreed in unison, nodding their head and talking amongst themselves about the situation.

“M-me? Eddie Munson would take her away? She’s not even my type, Henderson, so I don’t know why jock has his panties in a twist in the first place.” He shook his head and sunk back into the chair, taking a glace at you and Jason kissing once more, this time not as obscene, but still gross.

“Sure, she may not be your type, but we can all agree that the chemistry you share is unbelievable and we’re not just talking about the class.” Dustin quipped cheekily, watching Eddie tilt his head down to hide his reddening cheeks.

“Henderson….” Eddie gritted through his teeth, wanting to go back in time and not ask the question to begin with.

“He’s right! You two have a nice dynamic, so it’s no wonder Carvers is possessive of her.” Mike added harmlessly.

“Drop it dipshits.” Munson announced, eventually lifting his head up from the table, only to be greeted by your face staring at him from across the room. A glowing smile and fingers waving towards him before your attention was stolen again by your boyfriend.

_

Two weeks were up quicker than you expected, but Eddie and you had a marvelous time working on the project together. He’d pick you up after practice, or if you were early, you’d stop by Hellfire to wait for him to be done until you’d both work on the project. It was nice having something to do other than the same boring homework you had for other classes, along with having his company. The both of you waiting patiently as you watched your chem teacher make his rounds across the room before finally stopping at Eddie’s desk.

“An A+ this is fucking’ insane!” Eddie pounded his desk cheerfully, your grade circled at the top of the page in bright red ink.

You twisted your body around, holding up your hand that he high fived before continuing to celebrate his first A+ in the last three years. It was kinda adorable to see him so giddy over a grade. To you, it was normal to get decent grades, but for someone like Eddie, it was rare to see. People always doubted his intellectual abilities just because of what he wore and how he spoke, so it became his normal to expect grades that reflected his personality. Not this time, though, at least not under your watch.

“You keep it, hang it up on your wall as a memento.” Your hand patted his, eyes still glued to each other, and that shit-eating grinned that you both had when you two were around.

“Y’sure you don’t want to file it in with the rest of your superb grades?” He shot you a joke with a raised eyebrow, causing you to roll your eyes playfully.

“I’m sure about it, Munson. This certainly won’t be our last A+ together, right? I mean, we’re friends now….r-right?” You don’t know why your voice shook or why you even asked such a dumb question in the first place. I mean, it was pretty much established that you and Eddie were friends, right? Especially after the time and laughter you two shared. It was now a genuine friendship, right?

He nodded and inched closer to you, “Yeah, of course we are, duh.”

“Annnnd if we’re friends, then I think you should definitely check out me and my band tonight. At the Hideout.”

Your head cocked to the side with confusion, and your eyes continued to stare. “You’re in a band?”

He laughed at your astonished state and nodded, “Corroded Coffin. Me, Gareth, Jeff, and Kevin. We write our own shit, but we cover a bunch of other metal songs, too. I guess I could work in a metal version of Like A Prayer just for you.”

The heart beating in your chest fluttered at the simple thought of him remembering the song you were currently obsessed with now. “You’d really do that for me? But it wouldn’t be really metal of you, though? Don’t want to ruin your whole look you’ve got going on.” You looked him up and down with a smirk on your face.

He whistled and shook his head with a grin, “Sweetheart, everything I do is metal—so will you be there?”

In a heartbeat, your head bobbed and a wide smile came up on his face. “Of course, what time?”

Eddie did his best to suppress his excitement with you coming to his show. He knew metal music wasn’t your thing, but to see your instant accord to go made him churn with pride and a mix of nervousness.

“9:30, you need a ride or anything?”

He wanted you to nod your head, yes, but internally frowned when you shook your head. “My dad actually just got my car fixed, so I’m fine to drive myself. Do you mind if I invited Robin? It’s just that she’s been trying to get into new music, so maybe she’d be into your stuff, too?”

“Sure, the more the merrier, angel.”

_

“It fucking reeks in here!” Steve’s stuffy voice called out through the loud music as held his nose shut.

You all walked into the small club where a bunch of old middle-aged men were drinking and smoking among the genetic tunes blaring in the tight space. You had never been here before, so this was all too new for you, but you promised Eddie and you were really not one to break any commitments, and you sure as hell weren’t going to start tonight.

“Where in the hell did you drag us?” Nancy ordered, having a seat at one of the empty tables as the rest of you follow.

“Hey, I only invited Robin, but you guys wanted to come along…and we’re here to support Eddie and his band.” You told them, crossing your legs as you took a glance at your watch. Five minutes until they would be coming out on stage.

“Jesus christ, when I said I wanted to listen to new music, I didn’t mean at the Hideout surrounded by drunks.” Robin choked, pointing at an old man passed out at the bar.

“I think the scene adds character. Eddie and his band are metal heads, so it would make sense they performed somewhere like this.” You argued, following the stage as you saw Gareth and the rest of the guys pop out, then Eddie last.

“Woo Hoo!” You applauded noisily, followed by a whistle, while the lights dimmed.

Eddie looked out into the small crowd and saw your frame, along with the three others, waving and clapping a bit. He gave you a nod with a smirk before delving into the show and getting absorbed in the heavy bass and drums of Corroded Coffin.

Metal was most definitely not Nancy or Steve’s cup of tea, but they seemed to tolerate it for the night, appreciating the deep lyrics of the songs as opposed to the instruments. To Robin’s surprise, she actually appreciated the music quite a bit, but not as much as you, who was bobbing your head to every song and dancing around in your seat the entire set. Now that the night was dwindling, Eddie announced one last song and looked over at you.

“And this last one is for a special angel who came to join us tonight. This is Like A Prayer, Corroded Coffin Style.”

“Life is a mystery, everyone must stand alone, I hear you call my name, and it feels like home.”

Your jaw dropped and eyes widened as you watched the way Eddie’s voice beautifully carried the song, “No fuckin’ way!”

You quickly got up out of your seat, hands reaching out for Robins, pulling her along with you as you both danced to the beat of the song. Soon, Nancy and Steve even joined in, enjoying the metal rendition.

His eyes were trained on you while he continued singing the lyrics and his fingers moved against the frets. He had memorized the damn song in just a span of a few hours and somehow convinced his band mates to play along. The lyrics weren’t new to him as some of it was engrained into his memory after listening to you sing it on repeat during the time you and he would work on the project. And no different, just like the image of you dancing carelessly in a room full of people who stared, but they were all faceless to him. It was you who was engrained in his mind. Only you shone in the light, and you always did.

“Thanks everyone, have a goodnight.” Eddie finally ended the show earning hoots and howls from the drunks and, of course, you and your friends. He immediately set down his guitar and hopped off the stage, making his was over to you.

“Eddie, that was amazing!” Your arms had wrapped around his body in a tight hug that he quickly returned, wrapping you up in his arms and inhaling your warm vanilla scent. This was the first time you two were hugging. It felt strange, but still nice and homey.

“Really…you liked it?” He pulled away from you temporarily to look down at your dazzling smile that assured him that you did, in fact, enjoy the show more than you should’ve.

“I absolutely loved it and you kept your word with Madonna!” You hugged him again before he pulled away completely from the hug and swept his fingers through his ragged hair.

“I always keep more word, angel.”

Time seemed to freeze between you two, Eddie kept his eyes trained on you, fidgeting around, and your hands reaching behind you to twiddle with a smile still seeping on your face. That was, until Steve cleared his throat, resuming the moment.

“You guys did pretty good. Still not my type of music to get down to, though.” Steve patted Eddie’s back, earning a small nod.

Nancy stepped in, patting Eddie on the shoulder as well, one of her first real interactions with the metal head. “Yea, same here, but it was really nice to see you guys perform.”

“Well, I thoroughly enjoyed it a lot. Thanks for having us, although you didn’t necessarily invite me or Nancy, or Steve.” Robin spewed quickly as Eddie chuckled.

“You’re always welcome to come. We play Mondays, every other Friday’s and Sundays.”

They all nodded and waited for you to speak up, “Why don’t you guys get the car started? I’ll meet you out there in a minute.” You handed Robin your keys, and they all nodded, saying goodbye to Eddie as they left you two alone in the pub.

“Will you show me more?”

He scrunched-up face and wiggled around. “Huh?”

“More metal music? Maybe tomorrow or whenever you’re free?” You clarified, and he nodded quickly, snapping his fingers.

“Yeah, of course. I’ll bring some tapes. Maybe you can swing by Hellfire if you don’t have practice on Thursday?”

“You’re lucky Chrissy is the captain, and she likes me. I’ll be there!” You said giddily, your insides doing sommersaults, thinking about how much fun you two were going to have.

He looked just as excited, but knew it was getting late and you both still had class tomorrow. “Good—want me to walk you to your car?”

“Please?”

No questions needed as he simply rested a hand on your back and you fell into his touch, mindlessly leaning into him as he escorted you out the Hideout and the middle of the parking lot where the high beam lights from your car basically blinded the two of you.

“At this point they need to kiss.” Robin uttered from the backseat, watching the two figures make a little more small talk in the empty lot.

“Did you forget she’s still with Carver?” Steve flicked her shoulder, causing her to hiss at him.

“The pining between the two of them is killing me! Don’t they feel the connection they have?” Nancy whined, watching Eddie give you another tight hug.

“No, because the two of them are too damn oblivious, dancing around the very clear feelings that are present.” Robin bit her thumb, watching on.

“Does Jason even know she’s here?” Steve asked, shaking his head.

“Nope.” the girls answered, finally seeing the two of you pull away from the hug that seemed to last forever.

Eddie brushed some of your hair from your face and whispered, “Get home safe, alright?”

You bit your lip, nodding assuringly, “Mhm, see you Eds.”

One last smile was shared between you before you finally had to walk away, opening the driver’s door and buckling in, before you drove off you gave him a wave and you could see his mouth move, “See you, angel.”

_

Like you promised, you were there outside Hellfire on Friday, waiting for Eddie to let you in as you picked up footsteps and voices coming from the inside. Then, after a couple of seconds, you were greeted by his face and that smile you came to appreciate seeing on a daily basis.

“Hey—”

He instantly talked over you, guarding the door as he crossed both arms across his chest, “On a scale of one to ten, how good are you at giving advice, angel?”

“Umm, like maybe an eight…why?” You rose your brows only for Eddie to clap and turn his head to his friends, saying, “I’ve got just the person!”

His hand came to wrap gently around your wrist, pulling you into the room, “Hey this wasn’t a part of the deal!” You wailed as Eddie eventually let go, pulling out a chair for you, gesturing you to take a seat with his friends.

You sighed, setting down your things and sitting, “One of my boys really needs some help, and you’re the only other girl I know who seems to have some decent relationship advice.”

He patted your shoulder as he brushed past you, into his throne and you wondered out loud, “Yeah? And who might the other girl be?” lips turned up in curiosity and arms crossing your own chest.

He gestured over to a young girl, a redhead who sat by Lucas, who was skipping basketball practice to secretly attend Hellfire, though they weren’t playing. For a second, you thought that Eddie was hanging out with another girl…not that it even bothered you, anyway.

“Meet Red—” Eddie started before getting cut off.

“Max, my name is Max, I’m Lucas’ girlfriend.” She presented her hand towards you, which you shook politely before introducing yourself.

“Nice to meet you, too. Lucas didn’t tell me he had a pretty girlfriend.” You giggled, observing the young boy who blushed while she smiled proudly at the compliment.

“s’becuase they recently got back together. He pissed her off, so she had to put him in place.” Dustin chimed in as Max shrugged, leaning back in her chair.

“You’re fiery, I like that.” You commended seeing a smirk on her face before turning back to Eddie.

“Care to enlighten me about today’s conversation when we should be jamming out to some metal?”

He was flattered by your excitement at new music but, tapped his fingers against his collarbone, “Metal will come sooner or later. Mike upset his girlfriend…what’s her name again?”

He snapped trying to remember, glancing over at Mike who looked gloomy, “El—she doesn’t live here in Hawkins, she actually moved to Lenora a few months ago but her and her family might be moving back since they don’t really like it there.”

“So what happened with you and El?” You rested your head on your elbow, listening in to Mike’s story.

“She’s upset that I haven’t said “I love you…” I mean technically I did once, but I didn’t mean for her to hear it and now she just expects me to say it allllll the time, but I guess I just let it fly over my head because last night we got into a heated argument over the phone. She read all the letters I sent to her which ends with “From, Mike” instead of “Love Mike,” and now she won’t return any of my calls.”

You let out a shaky breath and nodded, taking a moment to recollect your thoughts and the best possible advice you could give him to save the relationship.

“When she brought it up, what did you say?”

“That I do say it—”

“But you just told me you don’t?”

“That’s what we’re saying!” Lucas, Dustin, and Max all shouted in unison, making you bite back a laugh that you so badly wanted to let out.

“God, would you guys shut up and let me speak!” Mike huffed out in irritation, turning back to you and groaning.

“I-I just think I have a hard time saying it. I mean, I’ve only ever told my friends I love you in a platonic way, but it’s harder to do romantically. I gotta fix this because hearing her cry over the phone and being able to do nothing sucked.”

He sounded terribly awful about the whole situation and seemed like he really wanted to make it up to his girl. This freshman was doing more to make up for his shitty behavior than Jason ever did in the year of you two dating, and it kinda stung to think about, but you brushed it off, not wanting to make the situation about yourself.

“Hey at least you can admit your wrongs and there’s nothing wrong with not being able to say I love you to someone romantically, I can relate to that.” You grabbed Mike’s hand thoughtfully as everyone turned to you and looked in perplexity.

“Wait, you’ve never said I love you to Carver? Haven’t you been dating for like a year?” Lucas furrowed his brows, and you nodded, plainly.

Your eyes peered around confused, “Yeah and?” your shoulders bounced, seeing all their faces drop in shock.

Mike started first, “Well, me and El have been going out for a while too, but I’ve said it once. Granted, she wasn’t supposed to hear it, but I still said it.”

Then there was Dustin, “Me and my girlfriend Suzie say it all the time—and yes, for the millionth time, she does exist, it’s called long distance people!” He looked at his friends who rolled their eyes skeptically.

And last, Max, “Lucas and I say we love each other every time we see each other and every time we say goodbye, it’s cute.”

Gareth’s unexpected voice entered the scene, taking you by surprise, “Jesus Christ, I thought you two were in love, always kissing in the middle of the halls and the cafeteria—”

Eddie, who seemed to have his eyes focused on you the entire time, picked up on your body language and realized you were feeling extremely judged at this moment. Your relationship with Jason put under a microscope that you were finally getting the chance to see up close and personal, recognizing the flaws that lingered between your union ship and feeling a bit disappointed that neither you nor Jason even uttered those three sentimental words.

He felt like shit for practically dragging you into the dragon’s den of attacks and stuck up for you immediately, hoping it would alleviate some of the anxiety you were facing.

“Gareth, shut it! Ignore them angel, they’re dumb.” Eddie spat, pointing a finger at his bandmate and friend, who shrunk in his seat while the rest of the grew rolled their eyes.

You shook your head towards the innocent guy, “No, no, no it’s fine, I-I guess I just never really thought about saying it—”

“Has he said it to you? I mean, he must have, right?” This time Kevin spoke as you turned to shake your head no.

“Well, aren’t we just learning something new about you every day?” Jeff chuckled tightly before going back to doodling in his notebook.

“I mean….do you love him?” Max asked you. The staring of everyone made you somewhat uneasy and the hand that was resting on Mike’s pulled back into your lap as you fidgeted.

“I don’t….w-what necessarily constitutes love?” Your voice whispered, taking your bottom lip between your teeth, and Dustin vehemently sighed, hands moving around in disbelief.

“Oh, my god is she serious right now?” He looked at his friends and then Eddie, who scowled at him disapprovingly.

“Henderson, be nice or else you’re outta here.” Eddie warned with a point, chucking an eraser scrap at him.

“Well, for one, attractiveness…does your stomach fill with butterflies every time you see him?” Max threw it at you, and not even a few seconds later, there was Lucas.

“Two, passion…do you have strong feelings for him, like wanting to spend lots of time together doing things you both enjoy?”

Max cut in abrubtly, adding onto Lucas’ statement, “Even things you may not necessarily enjoy but he does…you’ll even pick up on a thing or two that he likes and he’ll do the same for you.”

Last was Dustin, “And three respect…does he make you feel wanted and respected at all times? Does he talk to you with kindness and make the effort?”

How in the hell did these freshman throw these troublesome questions your way? You’ll never know, but what you did know was that you didn’t have a straight yes or no answer to any of them. But that had to be normal, right? Because love isn’t the same for everyone, right?

“Earth to angel, you still there?” Eddie leaned out of his throne, waving a hand in front of your face until you snapped out of your blank stare and wiggled in your seat.

“I-I don’t know….look El just might be a very emotional person, so it’s best if you two talk it out like adults. Hear her out and take the time to explain yourself to her—find common ground or something. Hell, maybe even write her a sweet poem or a song to make her feel reassured. You might not need to say it if you’re that terrified, but at least express it through your actions.” You said, resting your palms on the desk before getting up.

“Write her a song? Why would she want me to write her a song?” Mike stuttered out confused, watching you gathering your things in your hands.

“I’d want someone to write me a song if I was down. It’s romantic and thoughtful.” You replied, finally gripping tightly to your poms.

“W-where are you going?” Eddie asked, standing up from his throne to watch you sigh and walk towards the door.

“I got to go talk to someone, we’ll do a raincheck for music…I’ll see you tomorrow Eds, and good luck Mike.” You smiled, hastily shutting the door and racing over to the gym where you know basketball practice was happening.

Eddie grimaced, watching you run out of the room before hearing the door close shut, “You dipshits.” He sighed, looking at the kids, who shrugged nonchalantly.

“Jason!” you shouted, securing the attention of the entire team as the thud of the ball bouncing against the vinyl floor deliberately stopped.

He immediately rushed over to you with hands out to his side in confusion, “Babe, I thought you went home because you weren’t feeling good? What’s the matter?”

“I-I need to talk to you…can you get out of practice? Come to my house to talk?”

“Babe—”

“Please, this is all I ever ask from you.”

Instead of trying to reason, Jason walked away from you defeated, heading up to his coach to tell him he needed to take his sick girlfriend home immediately.

“This better be good,” Jason grumbled, picking up his bag and walking past you, heading to his car as he drove to your house.

“Why weren’t you already at home? You told me you weren’t feeling good at the end of school, at that was over an hour—”

“I went to Hellfire alright? I had to help out Nancy’s brother with something.” You confessed, staring out the window, feeling Jason’s eyes burning into the back of your head.

“Hellfire?! That satanic cult run by that freak? I thought I told you he and the rest of them were dangerous! He’s a goddamn teenage dirtbag if I ever saw one!”

You shook your head in disbelief, turning to scowl at him, “What the fuck does that even mean?”

“It means that he and the rest of them are a bunch of losers who are going nowhere in life!”

Thank god he didn’t see your eyes roll when you turned back the other way. Your right hand gripping the seat under you angrily, almost tearing the leather and cushion apart with your nails.

“For once, can’t you just drop that act? I told you they’re good kids who are just a little misunderstood by you and clearly everyone else at Hawkins who has a superiority complex!” Now your voice was spewing with venom and rage over this ludicrous claim.

“You’re naïve, so fucking naïve and stupid for believing that!” He slammed his hands on the steering wheel angrily while you stayed quiet the rest of the drive, not wanting to make matters worse and end up in a preventable accident.

When he pulled up to your home, you instantly unbuckled and snatched your things, slamming his passenger door shut. He observed you with annoyance, not speaking a word to him and keeping a blank face.

“So that’s it we’re not even going to talk?!” He shouted out of the window as you turned, “Well maybe if you got out and followed some social cues you’d see I’m leading you into my home so we can talk like civil individuals.”

He flared his nostrils before turning off his car and following behind you as you unlocked the door and let the two of you into the empty home, as your parents were still both on the way home from work.

“Sit.” You demanded dropping your things on the floor and pointing to the couch that faced the front of the living room.

“I’ll say this alright…I’m sorry for lying to you about feeling sick and going to Hellfire. It was wrong of me to lie to you, but it doesn’t excuse your cruel words that you used to terrorize them. I want this to be the last conversation we have about it, understood?”

You held your hands on your hips, looking down at him, resting his elbows on his thighs, and he nodded pitifully.

“Do you love me?”

“What?”

“You heard me—do you love me, Jason Carver?”

“Of course I do—”

“What is it you love about me?”

“Your smile, your hair, your eyes—”

You shut your eyes tightly, cutting him off, “Something that doesn’t have to do with my body.”

Silence. It lingered between the two of you for too long before you finally opened your eyes and caught his sorrowful face. You’ve been together for a year and he couldn’t even name something besides a physical trait of yours that he loved about you. It told you a lot about his character, something you should’ve analyzed a long time ago before this went too far.

“What are we even doing!” You sighed, bowing on the floor, running your hands through your hair in heartache.

“What are you talking about—”

“I mean, what are we even doing together, Jason! You, me, us, why are we together if we don’t feel anything?” You waved your hands between the both of you and he shook his head, eyebrows raised high.

“I do feel something, baby. I love you, you know that.” He came up beside you brushing your hair out of your face, trying to look through your soul but finding nothing.

You just shook your head, pushing his hands away from you,“Don’t say that because we both know it’s a lie—”

“It’s not a lie! God, what is up with you these days?!”

“When’s the last time you held my hand? Asked about my day? Do you even know what my favorite song it? Tell me Jason? Do you know anything about me at all?” You practically shouted with resentment, knowing that he didn’t know the answer to any of the simple questions.

Again there was silence accompanied by his grunts of dissatisfaction, still trying to reason that he did in fact love you, but you knew that just wasn’t true as it fell on your deaf ears.

“I can’t be with you anymore Jason, alright? I—I thought that’d I’d be satisfied with the two of us together, you know cheerleader and jock, but that’s just all a bunch of bullshit…I need to be with someone who truly knows me, not a person who looks at me like I’m arm candy.”

Your feet backed away from him, signaling it was his time to go, but he stayed, retaliating against your wishes.

“So that’s it? You’re just going to throw a year of us being together away? Because what? Oh! Let me guess! I don’t give you the thrill that Eddie Munson does, right? I knew I shouldn’t have let you hang out with that son of a—”

“What the hell does Eddie have to do with anything that I just said, Jason?”

Now you were pissed. How dare he try to blame this on Eddie when all along it was his fault. Too caught up in his goddamn ego to ever care about you as his girlfriend and now that you had realized your worth he was tryign to twist this. You should’ve known this is some shit he would try to pull.

“Don’t you see neither of us are happy here? All we ever do is fight there days! In your eyes I do everything wrong, and I try to tell myself that you can change and maybe you can, but I’m not happy anymore and you need to accept that!” Your finger pointed at him while the other hand wiped away the tears that leaked from the corner of your eyes.

“I don’t have to accept shit!” His voiced terrified you along with his figure moving to back you up against your walls, his fingers inches from your face.

When your back hit the wall, your heart shook, he could do anything to you now with nowhere for you to run. You’ve never seen Jason this angry before…was this the real him?

“Your mind has been corrupted by the devil and I will not allow you to continue to act like a sinner and throw everything that I’ve worked so hard to build for our futures!” His voice was so low yet vulgar, eardrums rattling while you flinched with each word, trying to appear not intimidated, but it was too hard not to be.

“J-Jason please, you’re scaring me…stop, don’t hurt me, p-please.” Your voice shuddered with fear and eyes distorting with more tears, not knowing what Jason was capable of and warning yourself to be careful with your comments.

“No, you need to understand that we are meant to be and—”

“Step away from her!”

A breath that you didn’t even realize you were holding escaped when your father’s voice bellowed through the living room and pulled Jason away from your space.

“Sir, I can explain it’s not what it looks like!” He held his hands up in defense, looking to you for support but you shook your head, keeping your eye on your dad’s grip that tightened around the collar of Jason’s jersey.

“Please, just leave Jason…and don’t ever come back.” You sobbed quietly as your voice snapped, eyes never meeting his again as they stayed looking at the hardwood floors, watching his feet scuffle out of your home with your father leading the way.

Hearing his car drive off, you ran up the stairs, making a beeline towards your room and collapsing face first on your pillow, soaking up your tears as you sobbed hoarsely. A year’s worth of pain erupting from your sockets after having to put up with him without ever realizing the impending damage his ways had on you. For a while, you thought that Jason and you were truly meant to be, but for the last couple of weeks, it just felt hollow between you two. And no matter how much you wanted to stick around and see the good in Jason finally reveal itself, you couldn’t be that person for him.

No one bothered you.

Not your dad.

Not your mom after your dad told her what happened.

Nobody.

They knew it was better for you to be left alone to deal with your feelings. It’s not that your parents didn’t care, it was actually quite the opposite. But they just couldn’t understand you sometimes—ever since you were a kid, they said you were just “too emotional.” And instead of forcing them to try to understand you, you accepted the fact that they were good parents, but just not emotional available for you to confide in.

_

The next day when Eddie walked into second period, he furrowed his brows, seeing your seat empty. You were never absent, so this was odd. And he knew you weren’t going to be late. You never showed up late, either. Attendance was always important to you, so he knew right away that something was up.

That thought was backed up again when he walked into the lunchroom not seeing you sitting with Nancy and Robin or even Jason. He thought he could brush off the thoughts but you not showing up without a notice didn’t sit right with him…it was like he had a gut feeling that something was off.

He pushed his lunch tray away from his, standing up from his seat without saying a word, causing his friends to react, “Where are you going, man?” Gareth asked stopping Eddie in his tracks.

“I—um, gotta go home, not feeling well…we’re cancelling Hellfire tonight, alright?”

“What! You never cancel Hellfire this is—”

Eddie quickly shushed Dustin, gesturing him to calm down with a simple stare. “I’ll make up for it next week, alright? You can be DM, so work on it over the weekend.”

“Holy shit, yeah, ok, yeah, take care Eddie! I love you, man!” The younger boy shouted at his role model as Eddie walked away and went straight to Nancy and Robin.

He rested his palms on the lunch table, the two girls staring at him dumbfounded, “Hey Munson, what’s up?” Robin spoke, resting her fork down on her plate.

“She didn’t show today?” His fingers tapped anxiously on the top, watching their faces fall with a sad nod, not having seen you this morning either in the halls before class.

“Maybe she had a sick day?” Nancy proposed, which may have been plausible, but still, it was just so unlike you.

He shook his head no and closed his eyes tightly, “She was perfectly fine yesterday so her being sick wouldn’t match up….plus I would’ve noticed if she was under the weather or something.”

It was as if he was talking to himself, trying to formulate the exact reasoning why you didn’t come to school today, and Nancy and Robin couldn’t stop kicking each other under the table over how Eddie was so head over heels for you.

“Do you guys have her phone number or anything?” He tapped his foot against the floor rigorously as the girls each responded.

“I have her landline written in my phone book at home? If you give me your number, I could call you when I get home and give it to you?”

“I can get into her file at Family Video and get you her number from there. But I don’t start my shift until 5:30 and I can only do it when Keith isn’t there or else I’m fired.”

He sighed, shaking it head, knowing he had to get into contact with you soon before he lost his mind worrying. His eyes searched around the cafeteria, hoping he could find someone he knew had your number memorized by heart…other than Jason, of course, but he doubted his pebble sized brain could memorize such an important set of numbers.

“Chrissy.” He mumbled to himself seeing the ginger smiling happily with the other cheerleaders. She was the only other girl on the team that you were friends with, and Eddie remembered that.

“Thanks for the help, ladies, but I think I know who just might have it.” He patted their table, and they nodded, watching as he walked over to the jocks and cheerleader table for the first time.

“Pssst…Chrissy!” He attempted to be as quiet as possible, not wanting to cause a scene today.

She turned, eyes widened with curiosity, “Hmm—oh…h-hi?”

“Can I talk to you outside? I’ll be quick, please?”

Although hesitant at first, Chrissy remembered how you and Eddie’s interactions seemed to have been friendly and sweet, if you could trust him, and she certainly could.

“Yeah, ok.” She whispered back, watching as Eddie quickly exited the cafeteria and waiting for her by the lockers.

Seconds later, she approached him, arms crossed and eyebrows raised, “What’s up?”

“She didn’t show up at school today, and I’m worried sick.” He blurted out, and a stunned look took over her face and she nodded sympathetically.

“Yeah, she actually called me this morning saying she was going to miss practice today but didn’t say why,” A frown covered her face, “she sounded a bit upset, though.”

“Like…like sad upset or angry upset?” Eddie asked curiously, and she shrugged, her palm moving from side to side, trying to recall your mood.

“A little bit of both, but more on the sad side.”

He just nodded and stared at the ground for a couple of seconds debating if he should give you some space but Chrissy’s voice came to him, “I don’t know if it’s true but Jason is going around saying he’s single now, so maybe that has something to do with it?”

“What?” He flashed his eyes back to hers and she bowed sadly, “He really seems to not care or if he does he’s doing a pretty damn good job of looking like he doesn’t give a shit for losing a good girl like her.” She rolled her eyes, just thinking about Carver’s stupid face.

“Shit…do you think I could umm…I don’t know maybe get her number? I just want to call and check up on her…you know, as friends?” He fretted with the chunky rings on his fingers and she nodded, reaching out for a pen, and Eddie quickly fished one out from his backpack and passed it over to her.

She caught him by surprise, pulling at his hand, writing the number in his palm with messy black ink.

“She like’s pizza…doesn’t really matter the toppings as long as there’s pineapple chunks somewhere on there, she loves it.”

Eddie furrowed his brows but didn’t question her, somehow filing that precious piece of information in his brain’s catalog knowing that there was a reason she was spilling this material.

“And she really likes that Meadow Gold strawberry ice cream. It’s in an enormous tub but one time her and I finished it in one sitting.” She giggled a little, remembering the sleepover you and she had a few months back.

Finally she capped the pen, looking up at Eddie, who seemed to be making a mental note of the few things you liked, “Hey…Eddie?”

“Huh…yeah, sorry?” He scratched his forehead, furrowing his eyebrows and looking down at Chrissy, who rested a comforting arm on his shoulder.

“You’re a good guy and I know she trusts you…I see it in the way she interacts with you. I mean, I haven’t even seen her be that comfortable with Jason and they were together for a year—you did something to her, it’s made her happy.”

“You think so?” A small smile broke out on Eddie’s face, and she nodded, giggling like a goddamn third grader.

“I really do, and if you want my advice, I think you shouldn’t bother with calling. Show up to her place—”

He cut her off, “I don’t want to seem like a creep.”

“Trust me, you don’t come off as a creep to her, plus its…umm…it’s more romantic if you show up at her front door.”

Eddie coughed out at the use of that melodramatic and cliche word, “R-Romantic?”

“Yeah, that’s how you get the girl…so if I were you get moving, Eddie.” She patted him one more time on the shoulder before he thanked her and rushed down the corridors and out to the parking lot, hopping into this van.

He debated his choices for a while, thinking if he should take Chrissy’s advice and show up to your door unannounced or whether to make a call to you first. For one, he really didn’t want to seem like a stalking creep, and who knows, if by chance you were sick, he was being dramatic and showing up for absolutely nothing and interrupting your rest. But then again, he just had to physically see you to make sure you were ok especially after hearing what Chrissy had to say to him.

Instead of taking the turn he would usually take to go to your home, he went straight deciding to stop at the grocery store to pick up some of your favorite things and then some—the worst that could happen was you turn him away and take the things he got for you. But that was enough for him. As long as he knew you were alright, he could sleep soundly.

Being desperate and still not wanting to look like a creep, he quickly copied your number onto a ripped piece of cardboard he had lying around in his van and licked his palm, rubbing away the black into onto his black jeans. He took a deep breath, grabbing everything from the van and walking out the front door to ring your doorbell.

“Go away.” You mumbled to yourself, hearing the chime of the doorbell echoing throughout your house.

At this point, you had a raging headache and had to make the decision to stay home from school after crying all night. You just couldn’t shake the disappointment you had for Jason. The year that you wasted with him that was always empty and you didn’t understand why you stayed.

Again the doorbell rung, this time a couple of times causing you to groan and get up from your bed, jogging down the stairs and whipping the door open ready to tear a new asshole for the person interrupting your crying session—

“We have the no solicitors signs out front for a—Eddie?” You stopped yourself mid-sentence, staring at a tense but grinning Eddie.

“Hiya angel.” He stood there in front of you, a bouquet of flowers in one hand while the other balanced a pizza box, tub of ice cream, and a few bags of candy and chips.

“H-hey, what are you doing here?” You hastily wiped away at your cheeks, hoping there were no obvious tears, but your red eyes told Eddie all he needed to know.

“Came to check up on you since you didn’t show today. I was worried sick.” He admitted, and you honestly felt like you could collapse onto the floor with how thoughtful he was.

“Y-yeah…I’m good.” Your voice was failing to match your words, and you sighed, shaking your head and running a hand through your messy hair, “Who am I kidding? I’m not ok, I feel like shit.”

The two of you shared a soft and short laugh before Eddie spoke up.

“Can I come in? Maybe we can talk about it?” He offered, and you nodded, stepping away from the door to make way for him before shutting and locking it.

You guided him up the stairs into your room, which was a disaster at this point. The photos of you and Jason that used to flood the walls were torn down and stuffed into the trashcan in the corner of your room. Some of the clothes that Jason had lent you were in a trash bag, along with the gifts he presented you throughout your relationship with him. Along with crying last night, you just wanted to get rid of anything that reminded you of him so that you could finally move on without feeling like you were still surrounded by him in your own room.

“Sorry about the mess. It was a rough night.” You motioned towards the mess before gesturing at your bed so he could sit down.

He was hesitant at first, not because it was his first time in your room. Hell, he’d been in here a couple of times with you before working on Smith’s chemistry project. But this time you weren’t your happy-go-lucky self that you usually were, but he was determined to make you feel good as new.

Eddie quickly nodded, setting down the food first, before standing in front of you awkwardly, “I umm…I got these for you.”

The assortment of flowers were right in front of your face and you grinned faintly, taking it from him and giving him a hug that he quickly returned. It felt nice being in his arms after going through the most difficult and emotionally night, “Thank you, Eds.”

He didn’t let go, not until your unwrapped your arms first, knowing that you probably needed the comfort, “Yeah, of course, it was no problem, really.” He stumbled a bit with his words, finally taking a seat, followed by you sitting next to him.

“Did I miss anything important at school today?” You asked, looking over at him, and he shook his head.

“Just a few notes in Chem, left before gym, but I doubt its anything important.” He informed you and you nodded, looking down at your knees where your hands rested.

“Pizza?” He reached down to grab the box, opening it towards you. The smell of fresh dough and tomato sauce filled hit your nostrils, and you grinned seeing the yellow fruits that scatters on the tops of the slices.

“How’d you know I like pineapple pizza?” You rose your brow, happily picking up a slice and taking a bite.

Eddie chuckled, watching you eat before responding, “A little birdie told me so.” he said simply, taking his own slice and eating.

“Did that little birdie also tell you I like strawberry ice cream by the tub?” You nodded towards the bring pink container seated on your floor and he nodded, still chewing his food.

“Yup, had to make sure I got the best for you, angel.”

“You’re too sweet, Eddie.”

“So is everything alright? Kinda ran off yesterday and I got worried…and sorry about the kids, they’re just talking out of their ass, they don’t know shit about—”

Your eyes widened, shaking your head, stopping Eddie in his tracks of apologizing and looking at you in confusion, “Those kids helped me realize I made the biggest mistake in my life.”

He rose his brows curiously. “Which is what, exactly?”

“That Jason and I were never good together…I broke up with him yesterday afternoon,” You set down your half-eaten slice back into the box, dusting the crumbs off your hands.

He mirrored your actions, watching closely as you raked a rough pass of your fingers through your hair before letting your back hit the mattress.

You took a deep breath staring at your glum popcorn covered ceiling, “I don’t think I ever loved him, Eddie.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that, sweetheart,” He tried to reassure you, his face coming into view hovering over you to watch your face display a sorrowful smile and your chest rise momentarily with a “hmph”

“He was my boyfriend for a year, Eds, and never did I ever feel loved by him, and never did I ever feel like I loved him. And—and I don’t understand why I only realized this yesterday, because now I just feel so…..just empty, y’know?”

Truly, Eddie didn’t know much about the whole relationship thing, but for you, he wanted to understand. You had come to him and shared some of the most intimate details of you and Jason’s relationship and Eddie sat there and listened, cracking jokes to try to cheer you up, but he knew that today was different. He wanted to be there for you.

He exhaled deeply, laying back beside you and resting his hands on his stomach, “Feeling so out of place with someone when you’re supposed to be feeling whole?”

The sheets of your bed wrinkling as you nodded your head, “Exactly like that! It’s like this whole time I was living in false happiness with Jason….I was just so undervalued by him. Like—like if I didn’t go along with what he wanted or turned myself into who he wanted me to be, he would make me feel so bad about myself—as if I was the bad person!”

You were screaming more so at the ceiling now, finally pouring your heart out after facing so much unresolved conflict with Jason. No one ever knew about the below surface issues that you dealt with in your relationship, because you never found it in yourself to tell anyone. If you ever did say anything to Nancy, Robin, or even Chrissy, it would be about the minor arguments, and to say that Jason rudely confronting Eddie at the Family Video was a little quarrel said a lot.

“Remember how we ran into each other at Family Video?”

He turned to his side now, resting his head up on his elbow as he faced you, nodding his head, “Yeah, what about it?”

“Jason got upset with me because I wanted to rent Dirty Dancing. Dirty. Fuckin’. Dancing.” hands moving around in the air sporadically, hitting a fist into your palm punctuating each word with frustration and anger, “For crying out loud he basically shamed me all because I wanted to watch a movie that I’ve been excited about! Who would ever want to make their girlfriend feel that way!?”

“Rhetorical question,” Eddie told himself, waiting until you were ready to start talking again as silence begun taking over your small room.

The tears started filling your orbs, blurring the ceiling into a cloudy mess, until finally you blinked, letting them flow off your temples, “A-and yesterday was just pure….chaos.”

His heart broke and concern brewed in his chest listening to your voice break and relentless tears cascaded onto the bed. He reached over calmly, wiping his thumb gently past your under eyes. The touch reminding you that you were safe here, closing your eyes and letting him be the comfort you so desperately yearned for.

“You don’t have to tell me more if you don’t want to,” Eddie murmured ever so gently, this time his fingers pulling away the wet hairs that stuck to the side of your face.

You shook your head, finally opening your eyes to be greeted by his staring deeply into your soul. This whole time he was looking at you like this and you had no idea. He looked so…..complete?

“H-he was so angry, Eddie, just kept screaming at me and talking to me like….like I-I wasn’t even human,” hiccuped cries occupied the room now and you couldn’t stop yourself from burying your face closer to his chest. His Hellfire shirt swamped with your salty tears and your open mouth breathing heavily into his chest.

The arm that was holding his head up swiftly traveled around your neck, carefully pulling you closer to him, if that was even possible—the other arm soothed your back with comforting circles as he whispered reassuring words and phrases.

“You’re ok, I’m right here….shhh, everything is gonna be alright,” his voice echoed through your ears, giving you the courage to continue talking about everything.

Your face pulled away only inches from his chest so that he could hear you clearly, “K-kept telling me that he and I belonged together and when I refused, he—”

Eddie’s faced screwed in anger, pulling you aways bit so that you could look up at his face, “He put his hands on you?” his voice was stern, filled with worry as he did his best to store the anger back, knowing this wasn’t the time or place for him to get riled up over someone putting their hands on you.

You shook your head and a bit of relief settled on Eddie’s face, only for a second though, “Backed me into the wall. M-my dad came home before he could do anything else.”

“Son of a bitch.” He gritted it through his teeth, pulling you back into his chest in a safe hug, his head resting on top of yours in a way to soothe you both. Mostly him, knowing he could’ve gotten up and went to find Carver to show him a piece of his mind—

Your hands, removed themselves from his chest, instead wrapping around him too, “Why did he treat me like that?”

He sighed, shaking his head, unknowingly because he truly didn’t know. You were in angel. Why would anyone want to hurt you let alone treat you so inadequately?

“He never deserved you…you’re waaay too good for him and he probably knew that, but instead of cherishing you, he took advantage of your kindness. God, no one deserves you sweetheart, you’re too good for this world, too good for any lousy guy here.”

You sniffled mumbling against him, but he couldn’t make out what you said, so he hummed causing you to repeat it a little louder, “I….I don’t feel that way, most times I just feel like—maybe I’m just not destined for love.”

“Oh, angel, no that’s not true…not at all and not even a little bit.”

He brought you away from his chest, his hands cradling your face in his hold, while he thumbs away your falling tears, “Anyone would be so lucky to have you, sweetheart.”

Your lips quivered, feeling so vulnerable yet secure with him. His words held real meaning and weight, and you knew that. But you couldn’t quite put your finger one why you were so gravitated towards him. Why he was able to make you feel like this when when all this time you were craving this kind of affection and softness in your—

“Oh shit….you liked Eddie,”

His forehead creased, catching your dazed teary eyes, “you, still with me, sweetheart?”

Eyes blinking rapidly, this time no tears behind them falling, just pure admiration for him, “Y-yeah, you just…you know how to make me feel better.”

A smile covered his face now as he shook his head at your compliment, “You just cried your eyes out and now you’re thanking me?”

“Hmmm, you’re always there for me….even when you don’t have to be.”

He was looking at you in such awe now, his fingers still cradling your face just as an excuse to feel you, “Well, I want to be here for you. You should know that by now.”

Your chest bubbled with a tiny laugh while his fingers pinched the apples of your cheeks earnestly, “I mean first it was renting out Dirty Dancing for you, then being your knight in shining leather when your car broke down…angel what’s next? Saving you from an alternate dimension with big scary monsters?”

Pursing his lips questioning while you rolled your eyes, light laughter filled your bedroom now as if he snuck in some sort of magic to make all the sadness disappear. “Will you still be there for me?”

“Wouldn’t miss it, sweetheart.”

His touch sadly left your skin as he sat up, hands reaching into his pockets to retrieve his car keys, “Give me a sec, I’ll be right back.”

You leaned up on your elbows, listening to his footsteps that jogged down the stairs and out the front door before coming back up with a wide smirk on his pretty face.

“Still up for some metal music?”

His fingers twirled around some tapes as you giggled, getting up and stealing one of them from his hands and popping it into your player. The two of you spent the afternoon listening to music, Eddie explaining each of the bands and the meaning behind the songs. He taught you how to head bang, and despite worrying about the whiplash and neck cramps you’d be feeling tomorrow, it was nice.

Just the two of you here, like this.

No fancy shit. You, Eddie, and the fleeting time that you wanted more of.

“He called me a what!?” Eddie asked unbelievably, stabbing his spoon back into the softening tub of pink goop as you toppled on the floor, giggling like a maniac.

“A teenage dirtbag!”

Eddie joined in on the laughter, inching his way over to you on the floor, taking your shoulders into his hands as he stared down at your still laughing body, “What does that even mean?!”

“I dunno, probably like a person who likes metal music and is in their very own band…super duper cool if you ask me.”

Jesus, he wanted to kiss you so badly, and you wanted to do the same. But instead laughter seemed to incite the same electricity kissing would have. Filling that void for the two of you, but who knew how long it would last?

You sat back up, inches away from his face, your fingers brushing his messy curls behind his ears, “Do you think if we submit a picture of you to Merriam Webster we could get you in the dictionary for Teenage Dirtbag?”

“You dork.” He shook his head, trying to conceal his smile as you threw your head back laughing, “Since you like metal music now, I guess you’re a dirtbag too.”

He poked your nose playfully and beamed, “Touche….then both of us can be in the dictionary!”

You moved back over, spooning a bite of strawberry ice cream into your mouth, while you watched Eddie do the same you spoke with a half full mouth, “Eds, what’re you doing next Friday?”

“Hellfire—why?” He sucked on the spoon, waiting for you to respond.

“Oh, I was just going to ask if you wanted to come to the game so you could see me cheer….but it’s totally ok! I know Hellfire is super importan—”

“I’ll be there.” He announced happily as your eyes widened.

“Really?”

He chuckled, not bothering to answer, instead getting back up and offering his hand. “What d’ya say, we get out of here? We’ll go throw out all this junk and hit up a nice spot, I know.”

Your eyes trailed to the trash bags of Jason’s things and meaningless gifts he’s gotten you, some of which Eddie had pulled out of the bag making fun of his stupid blonde hair and trashing the church music cassettes he got you for your birthday last year.

Nodding, you took his hand, timidly intertwining them as he went and picked up two of the full trash bags with his other, “Oh wait!”

Tugging him along to your desk, you plucked the Iron Maiden tape out from your player. He smiled at the small action knowing you had taken a liking to one of his favorite bands, “You can keep that one,”

You raised your brows, reaching over to open the front door for him, “Are you sure?”

“Yup, think of it as a present…plus I’ve got another at home,” He smiled, letting go of your hand as he pulled the passenger door of his van open for you.

The tape was now pressed to your heart as you thanked him with your infectious smile, “I’ll cherish this forever!”

He was fucked…he really liked this girl.

_

“I don’t know! Do you really think he’ll show?”

You were a skittish wreck in Chrissy’s bedroom, pacing back and forth from her closet door to the window as she sat calmly at her vanity, sweeping on her signature blue shadow across her eyelids. She watched you from the mirror’s reflection and giggled lightly, seeing her friend in such a frenzy over the one and only Eddie Munson.

“Of course he will! Now come on, sit, and let me touch up your hair.” Chrissy suggested, getting up from her seat and looking over at your slump shoulders that made their way into the chair.

“I don’t know why I’m so worried about seeing him, I mean I’m never nervous to see him…I don’t know why I feel like this.” You rambled on and on as she redid some of the curls in your hair and fixed the bow that was keeping your ponytail intact.

“Have you ever thought it’s because you have a crush on him?” She smirked, watching your cheeks turn beet red and your fingers squeezing the edge of the cushioned chair, trying not to freak out at the idea that left her lips, which actually was your little secret.

“Chrissy!” You gasped, shaking your head while she threw her head back and giggled profusely at seeing you so flustered.

“I do not have a crush on him, alright! He’s like one of my good friends.” Your posture straightened as if you were trying to prove something to her when in reality it was really you trying to prove it yourself. You were lying straight through your teeth for no use, Chrissy already knowing you had a crush on him and he had one for you too.

Chrissy’s amusement eventually died down, and she wrapped her arms around you, resting her head on her shoulder staring at you in the mirror with her toothy smile, “I’m just messing with you, and besides you look beautiful and you’re going to kill it tonight just like you do every game. Eddie will be there and he’ll be so mesmerized by you, just like he always is.”

Her words caused you to fall into a daydream, picturing Eddie in the stands watching you go full out with your routine as he clapped and cheered along with the kids, who waved and smiled at you. When the game was over, you’d run into his arms and give him the biggest—

The strong spray from the aresol can pull you out of that dream and caused you to cough loudly, seeing Chrissy coating your curls with hairspray and fluffy them up, “So enough panicking and more getting pumped for tonight, alright?”

_

They were all mildly uncomfortable, feeling way more out of place than normal when they stepped foot in the gymnasium, “I can’t believe you actually cancelled Hellfire to come here.” Mike called out through the loud gym filled with too many students for Eddie’s liking.

Dustin swatted Mike’s arm as they weaved their way through the stands trying to find some open seats, “Tonight could be Lucas’ night and we’re here to support him. Isn’t that right, Eddie?”

He looked over at the older man who said nothing except scan the gym, trying to find you somewhere on the court, maybe doing stretches or warming up with the other cheerleaders, but he couldn’t quite find you yet.

“Really…this is what you gave up being DM for?” Mike whispered to Dustin, pointing at Eddie, who seemed lost in a daze.

“He’s looking for her, I know it!” Max leaned into their conversation and the boys stifled their chuckles, knowing she was most likely right.

“Earth to Eddie, are you still with us?” Dustin snapped his fingers in front of his face, causing Eddie to snarl a bit.

“What is it Henderson?”

“I asked you where Gareth, Jeff, and Kevin were?” He lied in an attempt to finally catch Eddie’s attention.

He finally looked down at him and rolled his eyes, “They didn’t wanna come. Sucks for them, right?”

“Didn’t expect to see you guys here!” Robin’s voice came into sound as she, Nancy, and Steve approached, taking a seat next to them.

“Aren’t you supposed to be with the band?” Max questioned looking at Robin who giggled, “Told them I had to pick up an emergency shift at Family Video. Thank god you guys picked good seats, or they’d bust me.”

“Dingus,” Steve muttered, earning a pinch to the side, causing him to yelp and bicker with Robin for a bit, “Hey, don’t you guys have Hellfire tonight?”

“Came by to support Lucas.” Eddie said, shaking Steve's hands and nodding over at the girls, who smiled.

“Not to burst your bubble, but hasn’t he been on the bench for the last twelve games?” Nancy asked, looking at everyone who frowned and nodded.

It wasn’t Lucas’ fault at all for being on the bench for the beginning of the season. He was actually an incredibly talented kid who just so happened to be on a team with a bunch of meatheads who didn’t want to admit that they actually sucked compared to him.

“Tonight’s going to be different, I feel it.” Eddie reassured them all as their attention went back to the court hearing the horn blare followed by cheers and the band beginning to play.

His eyes veered to the cheerleaders who dashed through the gym entrance shaking their brightly colored pom-poms in the air, getting the crowd riled up for the night. Out of the twenty something girls who stood out on the court, only you stood out to him. He found you instantly the second you ran out there. He couldn’t miss you as you were a sight for sore eyes with your broad smile and twinkling eyes.

“He’s here!” Chrissy nudged you repeatedly, still shaking the poms in her fists as she pointed her chin in his direction.

Your eyes darted to him instantly, catching a glimpse of his cheeky smile and his head of curly hair, “Hi angel.” You could see his mouth say.

“Hi!” you mouthed back, waving your poms at him eagerly and he chuckled wiggling his fingers at you before the basketball players rushed out, signalling you and the girls to take a seat at the benches to watch them game periodically getting up to motivate the players until half time.

The entire night, your focus seemed to drift towards Eddie’s, whose eyes were definitely trained on you rather than the game, but you didn’t mind. Occasionally trying to communicate just by mouthing to each other, which inevitably left the two of you grinning and laughing at your horrid attempts to make out each other’s sentences.

“And we’re up, ladies!” Chrissy called up as the halftime bell rung and the court cleared.

“Let’s do this, Tigers!” You smiled, running behind Chrissy and getting into your respective positions on the court.

Then the music hit.

Eddie grinned like a lovesick puppy, eyes concentrated on your figure that flared your arms out in particular poses while you shouted the Hawkin’s cheer anthem. He pinched himself for not coming to these stupid games sooner if he knew he would be able to watch you do this all the time. You looked so happy, even if it was just some silly cheers, to get the crowd pumping and give the jocks a break from playing balls and laundry baskets.

Your pom-poms were discarded when the music hit, internally preparing yourself for the routine of jumps, flips, and tosses. This routine was different from the one he saw months ago when he waited for you to finish practice. Your moves were sharper, more intense…he would have to ask you about the different routines later.

“Holy shit!” Eddie watched in awe, keeping his focus on you—hands and feet making only milliseconds contact with the ground as you ran and flipped yourself multiple times, across one side of the court and to the other.

His friends laughed, so intrigued by Eddie’s reaction as he was the one person they thought would give less of a fuck over some cheer routine, but he was obviously intoxicated by you.

“Just wait until they toss her in the air!” Max smirked as she leant down to Eddie’s ear,

“Wait they do that—” his head only turning to look at her for a second, before she pushed his head back in your direction.

Reinforcing your hands on top of your hips, you braced yourself before you were tossed up high into the air, essentially twisting your body like a human pretzel before feeling your bases catching you and tossing you up once more.

From this height you could see Eddie clearly, his face painted with amazement and worry—both in a good way. It made you crack out an even bigger smile, throwing a wink his way, and you swore you could see his cheeks redding. But before you could really tell, you felt yourself come back down into the arms of the bases to finish up the routine. Rushing over to your final spot to the left of Chrissy, you were thrown up again, the two of you up in the air with your arms out holding a single leg extended stunt. “Go Hawkins!”

The buzzer sounded on time with the finale of the cheer team, hurriedly picking up their poms and running back onto the sidelines to recuperate. You instantly went for a water bottle, chugging its contents as you wiped the beads of sweat off your forehead, pacing the small space to get your breathing and heart rate back to normal.

Your eyes darted up to the bleachers, certainly catching Eddie who was already gawking at you, “Killed it, angel!” he mouthed proudly, giving you a fist bump in the air as you giggled and smiled widely at him. Somehow for the gym being filled to the brim with faces, he was the only one you could see, let alone care about.

“Lucas has been on the bench this entire game!” Dustin grumbled, tossing his hands into his lap sadly.

Fourth quarter was now nearing the end and Hawkins was only a three pointers away, but sadly all of their shots were blocked or either bricked. Eddie and the gang were surprisingly riveted by the game, and it was easy to follow with the help of Steve, explaining the ins and outs of basketball.

“Well, we aren’t going to win if Jason keeps shooting the ball at this rate.” Max rolled her eyes watching as the jock missed another three pointer resulting in a boo from the crowd.

The whistle blew with a minute left on the clock, the boys huddling with their coach for a few seconds.

“Sinclair is in! He’s in!” Steve shouted, standing up in his seat watching as Lucas stormed the court with his eyes deadset on the basket, knowing that he had to make a shot in order to win it for the team.

You squealed, poms ruffling in your lap as you watched the game begin again while an irate Jason sat on the benches scowling as the coach pulled him out of the game.

The teams ran back and forth with time ticking on the clock, Hawkins needed the three pointer in order to get the lead and the entire gym sat on the edge of their seat, watching and waiting until finally…

“He’s going for it!”

“Come on, Sinclair, shoot it dammnit!’

“Go Lucas on!”

BUZZ! 55-54, Hawkins takes it home with only three seconds left on the clock!

You and the entire gym sprang out of your seat, cheerleaders and the rest of the team storming the court to celebrate the monumental win. Lucas was hoisted up in the air, pom-poms waving with him, shouting out a bunch of congratulations before he was put back down.

“Congrat Lucas—” you were about to approach the young boy to pull him into a hug, but Jason’s figure got in the way. Trapping you in his arms as he pushed you back, your poms dropping from your grips as you tried to pry him off of you, “Get the hell off of me!”

“Shush, we’re all going to celebrate outside….come on guys!”

Your hands didn’t stop pushing at his rib cage, and your shouts for help were drowned out by the loud cheering of everyone around you and could do nothing but let Jason lead you out back, the team of basketball players following to the parking lot.

“Stop Jason, please just let me go!” you struggled in his hold, yelping as he lifted you off the ground roughly, throwing you over his shoulder. The faces of the other players were now visible and you could see them with taunting smirks as they mocked your attempts to get away from Jason.

“Did they plan this?” You thought, as your fists banged on his back, trying your hardest to find a way out, but all you could do was watching as you left the crowd behind, fearing what would come next.

Spotting the blonde hair the poked out through everyone in the distanced you screamed as loudly as you could, “Chrissy!” her head whipped looking around, tiptoeing to find you, but you were nowhere to be found.

“Chrissy help!” You yelled out again, waving your hands in the air, before they were harshly held back down, a player who had been trailing behind Jason held them in his grips, “Stop trying to run.”

That sent shivers down your spine and you knew you were fucked. Jason had planned this out of vengeance and spite.

Your friend pouted, still looking around to find you, seeing as her partner in crime had left her side once you all had rushed the court. And it seemed like the celebration went fairly short, most of the players already heading towards the exit, when usually they would stay back in order to get photos taken for yearbook.

“Shit! We’ve gotta go.” She felt a tugging on her hand, and it was no other than Lucas.

He should’ve been celebrating after capturing the win for his team, but instead he was here, frightened for your well being as he could hear the murmurs among his team mates saying that Jason had a special surprise for everyone outside and it involved you.

Chrissy hesitated, not fully understanding Lucas’ anguish, and he tugged her again. “Your friend is in trouble.” His eyes were glazed over with urgency and her eyes floated promptly to the exits, catching a quick glimpse of you thrown over Jason’s shoulder, with your arms bound by another player.

“Go! I’ll get Eddie!” Lucas didn’t wait, dashing out of the gym as fast as his legs could take him while Chrissy worked on spotting the metal head in the still fairly crowded gym.

“Eddie! Eddie! Eddie Munson!” It wasn’t your voice, but it was a scared voice that called out to him, Chrissy’s voice.

He and the rest of the gang squinted, looking down at the court as she searched fearfully around the gym, trying to find him, “Why is Chrissy Cunningham screaming for you?” Robin scratched the top of her head and turned to Eddie, who looked just as confused as the rest of them.

“Come on, let’s go.” He lead the pact quickly down the bleachers and straight to the ginger, who let out a small sigh of relief and ran up to him, meeting him halfway. She didn’t bother saying anything except tugging on his leather jacket, trying to lead him somewhere, taking him aback, “the hell are you tugging on me for?!”

He pulled his arm back from her hold, not understanding her urgency and the situation that was taking place at that very moment.

“Jason and the rest of the team are out in the parking lot with her. We need to hurry.”

In that moment, it felt like everything was moving in slow-motion, when in reality it all happened too quickly for anybody to really fathom what was going on. All they heard was that you were in trouble and Eddie saw red. He didn’t bother waiting up for Chrissy to lead him to where you were, instead he took it upon himself, pushing and shoving past the other students in order to find you.

It wasn’t hard.

Another crowd had formed right in the middle of the parking lot, a circle of students watching Jason stalk his way towards you with nowhere to run as the rest of the team had created a barrier around you, as per the point guard’s orders. Poor Lucas, you could see him shaking in the crowd mouthing to you that he was going to help you and god you wanted to believe that, but him up against all these meatheads would be an ugly sight you didn’t want to see.

With your jaw trembling, eyes pricking with tears, and your rapid breathing, you were able to make out a single sentence, “J—Jason, please…why are you doing this?” your hands tried to stop him from getting closer to you, Jason stalking you like prey until you bumped back into one of the other players who shoved you off them roughly and right into the hands of your ex-boyfriend.

His arms wrapped tightly around you, essentially gluing you to his chest with nowhere to go, “Stop! P-please let me go, Jason! Someone help me, please!” you shouted loudly, hoping someone in the crowd would step in and see that this was not ok.

But no one did.

“You all wanna know a secret that Little Miss Hawkin’s is hiding.” His blue eyes glared down at you like swords cutting into your conscience, wishing, demanding, to punish you for no good reason at all. That paired with the devilish smirk on his face made you burst into tears, not knowing what he was going to do or say to you in front of all these people, as you were defenseless.

Jason didn’t bother for the crowd to respond to his rhetorical question, instead he vigorously spun you around, your back to his chest, one arm holding your arms down and the other wrapping around your neck tightly, forcing you to look at all the people watching, “She left me for Eddie “The Freak” Munson!”

The laughs and shouts from the strangers didn’t bother you, it was the fact that they stood here watching you be harassed without realizing that what he was doing was wrong and—

Your eyes widened, “Lucas no!” he was running towards Jason full speed, glass bottle he took from someone in hand, slamming over the top of his head as you clenched your eyes shut bracing the impact of the fall and attempting to shield your eyes from any stray glass.

There was no big impact like you anticipated, only slight stumbling as Jason released the hold on your neck but kept you two up right with his grip coming around your body. You could feel a slight stinging coming from your forehead, but that was the less of your worries as you watch the poor freshman begin getting jumped by a couple of the other members of the basketball team who pulled him away from Jason.

You thrashed harshly in Jason’s grip, screaming and crying, “Leave him alone! Stop it, you bastards!” these attempts to kick and yell were insufficient and his constraint around you only got stronger, leading to you letting out another scream, this time a piercing one when you felt your rib cage crunch.

“I-it hurts! Plea…please Jason! You—you’re hurting me!”

Your cries could be heard for miles with how much misery you were in and it even led to the boys who were roughing up Lucas to regain some sort of pity and cut out of their onslaught on the young boy seeing you hyperventilating in Jason’s arms with tears running down your cheeks and blood gushing from a gash that no one could quite make out since it was blurred with crimson.

“Get your fucking hands off of her!”

Eddie’s voice had never reached such volume, packed with so much hatred that it made everybody in that parking lot halt what they were doing and follow the sound of his order. Like a scene in a movie, they made way for the man, hurdling past them with his friends right behind him.

“Holy shit.”

“What the fuck?”

“Lucas, oh my god.”

Dustin, Mike, and Max looked at their friend, bloody nose and a few bruises already starting to settle in on his body as Lucas inched him way over to them, falling at their feet as they bent down to try assessing what needed to be done to help him.

You on the other hand, didn’t have time to prepare as Jason launched you brutally into Eddie’s chest, your legs giving out on you at this point, barely able to hold yourself up from the pain radiating all over your body.

But he caught you instantly, wrapping his arms securely and gently around your body, as you laid there crying, “E-Eddie.” your voice cracked, fingers gripping tightly to his tear soaked shirt, not wanting to be anywhere else except in his arms.

“Let me see, angel.” His tone immediately turning soft as his thumb and forefinger came up to lift your head from his chest, revealing the bloodied mess that covered the right side of your face. His shaking fingers went to his belt loop, quickly undoing the knot on his black bandana and bringing over to your cut to stop the bleeding.

His blood began to boil once more, knowing that Jason had that ball to hurt you this bad…to even hurt you at all.

“I roughed her up a bit since I know you like your girls like that, huh? Don’t worry, you can finish her off, sacrifice her to that devil that you worship.” Jason was so smug, back on his hand wiping away at the blood that poured from the cut on the side of his skull all while tormenting Eddie.

You could feel Eddie’s chest rising and falling at a rapid pace, heart beating so loudly you thought you could see it popping out of his rib cage. He wasted no time, sinking his free hand into his pocket to fish out his car keys, tossing it behind him where he knew Steve was hovering, trying to see if you were ok or not.

Steve was sharp, catching it in midair and instantaneously sinking down to his knees beside Eddie, holding his arms out, “Take her to my van…make sure she and the kids are safe, I’ll be there in a minute.” His voice was stern and serious, doing his best to keep calm with you in his arms, not wanting to startle you even more than you already had been.

“No! Eddie please! I-I don’t want to leave you!” You wept, feeling Steve scoop you out of Eddie’s arms carefully, guiding your arms to wrap around his neck to keep you from slipping out of his hold.

Eddie shook his head, grasping your cheeks in his hand delicately, peering into your eyes, “I’m not going anywhere baby, you need to go with Steve and the rest of them and I’ll be there. I promise.” his lips met your temple before Steve speedily got up, hustling you and the rest of the gang away from the scene.

“S-Steve, we have to go back…Jason—he’ll kill him!” You cried, trying to somehow convince the man who was carrying you to turn back and at least assist Eddie in the fight.

“Sweetheart, you’ve got to trust him ok…Robin get the keys in my pocket….Lucas you alright man?” He called out, feet never stopping until he approached Eddie’s van and looked over at the kids and Nancy, who were together carrying Lucas.

“J-just fucking peachy Steve-o!” Lucas choked out roughly, resting his head on Max’s shoulder.

Robin quickly unlocked the car, sliding the back doors open, first letting you and Steve in, then the rest followed.

“Lock it! Lock the damn doors, Robin!” Dustin screamed, letting go of Lucas’ weight as they carefully put him down on the carpeted floors.

“Eddie…we need to help Eddie! Need to g-go, I want, Eddie!”

Everyone darted their attention back to you, still in Steve’s arms, still in your frightened up state, body trembling rapidly and breathing going shallow.

“Hey, hey come on, shhhh it’s ok calm down.” Steve attempted to rock you back and forth, but nothing seemed to aid the shaking body in his arms.

“She’s having a panic attack.” Max said, standing up and kneeling beside the two of you.

Sweat beading every inch of your body, muscles trembling, and the look of horror spread out on your face. She knew it all too well.

“Water! She needs water!”

Jason stood with his arms held out to his sides like some sort of messiah, “Finally going to fight me like a man, Munson?”

Eddie wasted no time, charging towards him with a tightly closed fist that connected with the square of Jason’s jaw, knocking him out onto the gravel as everyone gasped, but not threatening to intervene knowing that they’d be victim to Eddie’s attack if they did.

His fist didn’t falter despite the unconscious boy beneath him, “Don’t you ever!” Jason’s nose cracked loudly against his ringed knuckles, “put your hands!” his arm swung back down to his face again, blood splattering in the air, “on her again!” the last punch landed on Jason’s cheek followed by crunching, surely his teeth falling out.

And just like that, Eddie got up, wiping the enemy’s blood on his black jeans, turning towards the crowd who looked scared shitless of what they just witnessed, “You’re all sad excuses for human beings” he sneered, pushing past all of them, leaving the bloodied boy a mess while he walked back to where you were.

A knocked sounded on the van door, startling everyone as they did their best to fan you and press a wet towel over your forehead to get you to calm down from the aftermath.

“Shit! Is it Jason?! He’ll kill us!” Dustin screeched, earning a stiff slap on the back of the head by Max.

“Shut the hell up! You’re making it worse!” She whisper scolded, eyes darting down to where you began shaking even harder, not knowing what was going on.

Steve’s hold got tighter, rubbing his thumbs up and down your arms, attempting to get you relax though he too didn’t know who was outside the van, “Hey, hey it’s alright sweetheart, just breathe for me.”

Max, Dustin, and Mike sprang back into action continuing to fan you with the random homework assignments that littered his van—if it wasn’t such a serious matter, they’d joke about how the shit in his van actual had some use, but they knew they’d save this conversation for later—when you were ok.

Robin and Nancy shared a panicky look before. The older one nodded, peering closer to the window to catch a glimpse of who it was continuing to knock as the rest stayed behind her, watching in anticipation.

A sigh of relief left her mouth and her eyes shut, “It’s just Eddie,” her orbs opened back up and quickly she unlocked the door, flinging it open to take in the sight of Edward Munson.

Their eyes widened seeing him standing there so nonchalantly, staring at them back, both fists still clenched tightly with the remaining adrenaline running through his veins. If he didn’t have any composure and you to get back to, he’d probably still be back there, taking his time dismantling the rest of the team and everyone else there who did nothing but watch you get assaulted by Jason.

Regardless of the damage he wanted to do, your cries and whimpers seemed to bring him back to reality. His heartbeat trying to calm itself for you and the anger washing away seeing you in Steve’s arm while he gave him an unsure look if he could keep comforting you for any longer before you broke.

“Jesus, man, you’ve got blood all over your hands.” Dustin swallowed thickly, moving forward to see if there were any injuries to his friend— but he honestly didn’t know if he could handle so much blood in one night.

Eddie grunted, ripping off his signature denim jacket and roughly wiping the dried remnants of Jason’s blood onto the garment, “Not mine…I almost killed that son of a bitch.” He spoke in a hush tone, not wanting to terrify you.

“Give it here, man.” Mike whispered, holding his arm out to grab the piece of clothing, tossing it towards the back of the van where he would deal with it later.

Despite not being able to see what was going on, you could hear and feel Eddie’s presence, and you desperately needed him. You didn’t mind Steve, his attempt to console you actually helped a bit, but you knew deep down in your heart (and so did everyone else), you needed Eddie.

“E-Eds,” Your clammy hands freed themselves from Steve’s hold, blindly reaching out to grab him but you never found him, “I want Eds…please.”

Eddie didn’t know if he could trust himself around you, he wanted to hold you, wanted to take Steve’s place, but wasn’t sure if feeling you in so much pain would make him want to go back out there and give Jason another beating.

Nancy could sense the apprehension from a mile away. The look on Eddie’s face said it all. He was terrified of hurting you more than you already were, but she knew he wouldn’t do that. Never in a million years. She squeezed Robin’s hand, signalling for them to get out of the van.

Nancy stood up, holding up Eddie’s keys to his face, “I’ll drive your car back to your place, Steve will take the kids in his car…she needs you, Munson.”

Still, he seemed unsure.

Robin sighed, her hands resting on Eddie’s shoulders forcing him to tear his gaze from your stiff body in the back of his van, to hers, “You’re not going to hurt her Eddie…she trusts you alright—now please, go.”

He swallowed thickly, nodding his head, watching as the kids began to file out of the van heading over to Steve’s car while Nancy hopped into the driver’s seat and Robin taking the passenger. Steve was the only one that remained, giving Eddie a reassuring look.

“Eddie’s coming alright, sweetheart.” Steve whispered to you, leaning down slightly to lift the damp towel over your face to see your eyes still squeezed shut and your lips and cheeks swollen from crying.

You could feel the van creak lightly with Eddie entering, placing a hand on your calf as he came closer, taking a seat on the floor, holding his hand arms out for Steve to lay you in.

“Nice and easy.” Steve said softly as he transferred you into Eddie’s arms. Your fingers immediately grasping his leather jacket to make sure it was him. “E-Eds” you sniffled, tearing off the covering on your face to see him.

He cracked you a tiny smile, his right hand reaching up to brush the stray hairs away from your forehead, “I’m right here, angel.”

Steve observed, along with Nancy and Robin who were in awe with how the two of you just instantly fell into each other, “I’ll follow behind in my car.” his voice fell on you and Eddie’s deaf ears, not caring about the loud door slam and the engine of the van coming to life as the drive to Eddie’s trailer began.

No one spoke for the ten-minute ride home, figuring that silence is what you needed most in order to get yourself into a calm state so that Eddie could figure out what to do next. Robin and Nancy, however, would take a glance back every so often. Watching as Eddie kept one hand pressed on your temple wound and the other would brush your cheeks and eyes, wiping away any tears that escaped.

“We’re here.” Nancy whispered quietly, pulling up to Eddie’s trailer, parking in the small driveway with Steve’s car pulling up next to them.

Eddie nodded, wrapping his arms back around your body and never letting up eye contact, “Let’s go inside, kay?”

“Kay.” your voice barely a whispered, feeling the van’s door open and Eddie lift the two of you up and out of the small space until the cold air hit your skin causing you to shiver a bit.

You could hear a bit of conversation coming for the kids, asking Lucas if he felt that his nose was broken and being relived when he said no. Then there was Eddie, instructing Nance and Robin on what key was supposed to open the trailer door, until Steve jumped in, helping them out and finally you felt yourself enter the safe space you knew.

He kicked off his shoes, leading them into his home, “You guys can crash here for the night. There should be a first aid kit under the sink and some blankets in the storage closet down the hall.” Eddie announced quickly over his shoulder and rushing over to his bedroom to set you onto his mattress.

“It h-hurts Eds.” You whimpered, not feeling his touch on you anymore. He knelt down beside you, grasping your cheeks in his palms tenderly. He hated seeing you like this. Cheeks coated with tears and eyes that never stopped pouring them out—god if he could take it all away from you, he would in a heartbeat.

“I know baby, I know,” His thumbs continued rubbing your cheeks, swiping away at the tears that feel every few seconds, “Gonna fill up the bath, alright? Get you cleaned up…that ok?” His eyes searched yours carefully, not meaning to step over boundaries or make you uncomfortable, but he didn’t know what the hell to do. He’d never experience something as traumatising as this and he just wanted to make sure you were going to be ok.

You nodded softly, still feeling the warmth of his palms on your making you feel safer than anyone has ever had, “W-will you help me…i—I just don’t know if I can even m-move, but—”

He didn’t hesitate, his eyes speaking from themselves before his mouth did, “Of course, I’ll help you…just give me a minute, alright?” You nodded against his hands, closing your eyes softly when his hands parted, going to stand up and gather some clean clothes from his dresser.

“Gonna run the bath and come get you when it’s nice and warm.” He stopped at his doorway, looking back at you as you nodded, eyes still closed, breathing in the scent of his room.

He hurried, not wanting you to sit in the room all alone by yourself. He wanted to be there with you as much as you needed him to be. Going to the sink first, he quickly washed his hands, scrubbing away the blood that was left in the crevices of his knuckles and under his nails before getting started on your needs. When he got the temperature of the water just right, he plugged the tub, letting the water fill up and adding a squeeze of his body wash to the mix, getting it nice and bubbly for you, before shutting the water off before it overflowed.

Looking around the bathroom, he began getting a few wash cloths, a new towel, and the first aid kit out, setting it on the sink counter so it could be at arm’s length for him to grab. He took a final glance at the bathroom, making sure he had everything he had before returning to his bedroom, but not before stopping in the narrow hallway, turning his head to the left to see the rest of his friends. They were too busy attending to Lucas’ injuries to notice Eddie giving them a gentle smile.

You were in the same position that Eddie left you in—middle of the bed, hands to your sides and your chest rising up and down at a considerably calm rate now, making him feel a wave of alleviation. His quiet footsteps could still be heard by your ears and you turned your head slightly, opening your eyes to see him already kneeling down to your level.

“It’s ready, angel.” He whispered, brushing some of your hair back and you nodded, fingers going to wrap around one of his wrists, attempting to pull yourself up, but instantly seething at the pain in your abdomen.

Eddie was brisk, his hand coming to support your back, guiding you into a sitting position, “Christ, you can ask for help, babe.” he shook his head and you pouted your lips slightly, feeling so useless in this very moment. Eddie was always coming to your rescue and part of you felt bad for dragging him into all of this, but you didn’t have much time to think about it, thoughts burying themselves into the back of your mind as Eddie carefully swooped you into his arms, walking you into the bathroom.

He kicked the door closed with his foot, staring down at you, the dim bathroom lights still making you look gorgeous as ever in his eyes, “I’m gonna put you down here alright?”

You turned your head to where his chin pointed, the closed toilet seat and you nodded, feeling yourself be set down on the hard plastic cover and Eddie kneeling down beside your legs.

His fingers fiddled with each other, something he picked up from you over the past month, “Do you…umm, want me to…undress you?” His face was flushed red asking such an absurd question. He knew you asked for his help, but didn’t know if this was too far or not.

When you went to nod, he shook his head rapidly, taking you aback for a second, but his right hand that rested on your bare knee told you everything, “I need verbal confirmation, baby…I need you to be certain—don’t want to hurt you.”

Even in such a vulnerable and awkward situation, he was still gentle as ever, making your heart swarm with fireworks and stomach fill with butterflies, “Y-yes…want your help Eds.”

“You tell me if you want me to stop and I’ll get Nance or Robin…I swear I won’t take it personal—”

Your hand rested on top of his, squeezing ever so slightly to stop his sentence. Eyes meeting each other filled with so much care and assurance, “I’m sure, p-please Eddie.”

Eddie knew from the look in your eyes that you were a hundred percent sure of your decision and he remembered Robin and Nancy’s words from earlier that night…you trusted him.

He nodded quickly, taking one more look at you, “Yeah, yeah ok, I’ll help you, going to start with your shoes first.” His fingers undid your laces, working your white sneakers and socks off your feet and tossing them to the side.

“Top now, ok?” He stood up looking at you and you croaked out a clear yes that let Eddie know to keep going.

He spotted the white zipper trailing down the right side of your Tigers cheer uniform and he took a deep breath, fingers practically shaking as he pulled it down slowly, allowing its form to loosen from your torso slightly. You brought your arms up as high as they could without causing your ribs any discomfort, and Eddie swiftly guided the top over your arms, then gently helping you bring your hands back down to rest in your lap.

Left in your white cotton bra with some frail lace lining the cups and only your skirt on, you should’ve felt exposed—but still you felt at ease knowing that Eddie’s main priority was taking care of you and not ogling in the sight of your body.

“Skirt or bra first, angel?” He asked quietly, staring only at your eyes as you looked down at your bottoms, wanting out of them immediately since it was covered in some of the parking lots dirt and gravel.

He nodded, holding out his hand for you to take as he helped you up, “grab onto the counter, don’t want you to fall and hurt yourself.” His chin gestured to the counter and your fingers immediately gripped the marble, steadying yourself as Eddie worked the similar zipper on your skirt down, allowing the green fabric to pool at your feet.

You could see his breath hitch in his throat, eyes staring down at the garment, just staring at him on the floor, not knowing if he could even take a look at you without crumbling. Even in a moment like this, you affected him but he knew it wasn’t right, not when you needed him to be here for you, so he shoved those fears and thoughts to the back of his brain, eyes snapping up to yours with your lip caught between your teeth.

“Bra first, then bottoms alright?”

“Yes”

His calloused fingers brushed your skin ever so lightly as they reached behind your back, popping the hook and eye closure open with ease and watching as your breasts spilled from behind the cups and the straps loosely handing off your arms, begging to be freed. And they were as Eddie slid them off, adding it to the pile of clothes that formed on the bathroom floor. Again, the same rough yet soft hands came down to your hips where the band of your underwear laid snuggly, hooking his fingers between the flimsy fabric and your skin guiding them down your legs as you absentmindedly stepped out of them.

“Let’s get you in, yeah?” His breath was still a little rough, having you right in front of him wearing nothing but your soft skin. He almost melted, feeling your hand reach out to hold his as it left the counter, needing his assistance to get into the bath.

Eddie held your hand tightly, the other resting on the small of your back, moving you gently towards the tub, stepping into it one foot at a time, until you were able to bend down slightly to lay back, “Nice and easy, babe…is it good?” He watched as you laid back comfortably, lips parting with a sigh and your eyes shut peacefully. “not too hot is it?”

You shook your head, opening one of your eyes to see him resting his arms on the tubs ledge watching you intently, “Perfect, Eds, thank you so much.”

He smiled, shrugging off your thanks, and turning behind him to grab the first-aid kit, shuffling through the contents to find alcohol pads and gauze.

“We have to clean up that cut on your forehead, alright?”

Your eyes opened fully now, frowning slightly at seeing Eddie opening some packets of the alcohol swabs, “Will it burn?”

“Just a little, but not for long, I promise.” He assured you, waiting for you to give him a nod until he leaned closer to your face, hands dabbing at the gash on your forehead, causing you to wince slightly until the sting became normal.

“There’s some glass.” He whispered, coming closer to your face to see the minuscule shards of glass.

“The bottle.” You responded, squeezing your eyes tightly, feeling a sharper pain as Eddie swiped over the gash a little too quickly.

His fingers immediately pulled away after your reaction, “Shit, I’m so sorry.” he apologized, thumb grazing your other cheek and you shook your head, “I’m ok, Eds, it just hurt a bit.” you reassured him.

Still, his face wore a sorrowful look as he went back in to clean it more, “who threw the bottle?”

“Lucas…he hit Jason over the head, but I-I guess the glass must have ricocheted.” You explained, and Eddie let out a small chuckled at the young boy’s courage to do such a thing to the captain of the basketball team.

“Pretty metal of him.” He joked softly, causing you to laugh a little for the first time after the incident.

“Metal,” you agreed with him before quietness fell between you for the next minute or two.

His tongue poked out of his mouth in concentration along with some of the comforting strings of words like, “almost done, angel,” “sorry, sorry, sorry,” and “great job, you’re doing so good babe.” If the words being spoken and the little comforting gestures weren’t already sending you into a frenzy, the complete and utter look on his face was something you couldn’t tear your eyes away. They stared up at him through your lashes, watching his every move.

Eyes squinting, trying to pick out the small shards of glass that were left on your skin.

Forehead creasing every time you would jolt a bit from the pressure of his touch.

And nose flaring every time he had to reach for another swab to wipe up the blood that dried up on your skin.

Finally, when the cut was nice and cleaned, he smiled down at you, patting your head playfully, making a tiny smile break out on your face as you watched him stand up, discarding the bloodied materials, and washing his hands. His eyes kept on yours in the reflection of the mirror, still a smile on his face.

He came back after a few seconds, this time with washcloths, “You want to do it or me?” Eddie held the small gray towels up and you nodded your head up at him, “You please, I can’t really reach without hurting my ribs.” you explained and he nodded, dipping one of the cloths into the soapy water.

Starting with your arms, he carefully glided the warm towel over your skin, the quiet buzzing of the bathroom light that you never noticed before could be heard through the silence. Not that you minded. The towel moved from your arms to your neck, carefully his dry left hand reached behind your head to lift yourself up slightly so he could get the back of your neck. Before you could relish the feeling, his hands had left to grab a new towel, dipping it into the water once more and moving down to your chest and the rest of your body.

This was different for you in many forms. First one being that your body had only even been touched by yourself and Jason Carver and only one of you was the gentle one with it. Jason never did things as intimate as this. Not even in a bathing you sense, but in general his touch was always a bit….rushed and careless.

But Eddie…god he was so gentle with you. Even before this moment, you’d finally realize that all the little hugs, fingers brushing against one another, hands rubbing your arms and cheeks when you were nervous or scared, his hand resting on your back to guide you around. All of it was so delicate.

The way Eddie would remember all the small details about you. Your favorite song, whichever it was, since it changed so often, but he always kept cassettes on him in case you wanted to listen to it and you forgot yours at home.

Him creating a stupid little cute nickname for you that was basically your first name now, all because his memory never let him forget that you were born in the winter and you wore matching jewelry.

How he would keep his promises to you and mean it. When he said he’d be there at a certain time picking you up from cheer practice, he’d be there right on time, hell, maybe even earlier. But god forbid, he was a teeny bit late or his campaign ran a little overtime. He’d apologize right away and make it up to you.

When he said he would play your favorite pop song at the Hideout in front of a bunch of drunks and his stupid friends who didn’t really want to, he did it anyway. Showing up at a basketball game that you would be cheering at for literally only a total of twenty minutes the whole night—he was there. He always kept his word.

You should honestly be pinching yourself for allowing a guy to see you in this state after only knowing him for a month and a half, but it felt so natural and safe. It wasn’t even as if Eddie was sexualizing you when he easily could; he didn’t. He made it his job to make sure you were alright—mentally, emotionally, and physically. You remembered you couldn’t even stand naked in front of your ex-boyfriend for a millisecond before he was throwing himself at you without even asking if sexual activities was what you wanted.

Eddie is who you wanted.

Right here in this very moment you finally knew it, but what you didn’t was that you were once again crying. Tears falling from your eyes, down your cheeks, and into the bath water.

His fingers pulled away from your calves that he was washing, “W-why are you crying…did I do something wrong? Touch you somewhere? I—I’m sorry, I should’ve asked before, but I thought you were ok with me washing your legs, but I-”

“I was so scared, Eddie!” You wept, lip trembling as your teary eyes stared at his, making out a blurry image of him moving himself closer so that he could bring you face to the crease of his neck where you cried softly.

“Shhh, I’m here, angel. No one is going to hurt you, I promise.” His hands let go of the washcloth, letting it sink to the bottom of the tub as his hands wrapped around your body, hugging you close to him.

You continued to cry, paying no mind that you were still naked, half your body engulfed in his arms while the other stayed in the water, “I—I thought no one was going to s-save me,” you admitted pulling away from the space and hiccuping as you wiped away at the tears harshly.

“Everyone…they were just staring at me. They let him do that to me….” She continued as Eddie continued to listen, understanding that she wanted to just hear her.

She shook her head from side to side, rapidly, when the images of the night flashed in her mind. She could still make out the faces of the crowd laughing and scowling at her while she was at Jason’s mercy. And if that wasn’t enough, the fear that crossed her face when Lucas basically sacrificed himself for her.

The thought alone made her feel such an intense internal pain. Squeezing her eyes shut once more, Eddie wasted no time, bringing her into his arms again, feeling the wet tears sliding down his neck and over his shoulder.

“But you came…you—you, I don’t understand, I-I just don’t deserve you.” It was a broken sob, but he still heard every little word.

Humming sounds of disagreement came from him as he hugged you tighter to his clothed chest, “No, baby, I’m the one who doesn’t deserve you alright? You’re so perfect…so goddamn precious and you deserve someone who—”

You don’t allow him anytime to finish his stupid speech, not wanting to hear him be so harsh on himself when he was perfect in your eyes, too.

“I need you Eddie…I-I care for you so deeply and…I think—think I love you….”

The words seemed to leave your mouth before you could even stop and think about what you were about to say. That word held so much meaning. You didn’t know if Eddie could handle it after all the shit that happened tonight, so you almost regretted your decision, letting your emotions get the best of you, but this is how you really felt.

You loved Eddie, and you knew that.

The hands that rubbed at your back, halted and you both froze in the hug before you pulled back slightly just to see his face, trying to read him and see if there was anything at all.

“Y-you love me?” Is all he said, looking at you seriously and you nodded.

“I do—I love you, Eddie.”

His heart was racing a million miles per second, trying to grasp the words that just escaped your mouth for the second time. He heard you loud and clear, but he just couldn’t believe that this was real life. The girl that he obviously had developed a crush and deep care for had the same feelings for him. If not maybe even a little stronger. But not for long.

“Eddie…please say something….anything.” Your lips were trembling in fear now, wondering if you had messed up by confession your true feelings for him.

The last thing you wanted was for you to lose Eddie just because you let your emotions get the best of you.

“Can I kiss you?”

“What?”

“Can I kiss you?”

“Y-yeah…yes, please.”

His palms held your cheeks in his hold, the two of you closing your eyes in bliss when your lips finally connected in the most passionate yet delicate kiss you’ve received in your life. Your lips didn’t stop moving against one another, keeping the same slow pace until the two of you eventually needed to pull away to catch a breath.

Foreheads resting against one another, and his eyes staring deeper into your soul, he whispered the sweetest four words to ever hit your ears,

“I love you too.”

There was no need for any other words after that. Matter a fact, you and Eddie spent the rest of the bath in complete in and utter silence, but still the air was filled with so much emotion. The happy kind. The both of you were content with the silence, only whispering quiet, “I love you’s” and him peppering kisses on your cheek, lips, and head as he got you dressed in an oversize band tee and a pair of his boxers.

He carefully picked you up again, carrying you out of the bathroom and back to his bedroom, where he laid you down in his bed. Pulling the sheets up to warm up your body, “Gonna go shower and I’ll be right back alright?”

“Don’t be too long please,” you said sweetly, eyes shimmering under the moonlight that peeked in through the same thin curtains. The same eyes that were filled with tears and fear an hour ago, now sparkled with comfort and love.

Eddie nodded, leaning down to brush his lips over yours, “I won’t. Just try to rest your eyes for me, baby.”

You smiled against him, fluttering your eyes closed when he drew away—he paused for a moment, taking in your precious face before quietly shutting the bedroom door to give you some privacy and peace. He gathered your clothes from the bathroom, heading down the hallway to toss them into the washing machine. Eddie quickly had a shower of his own, not standing to be alone without you and longing to feel you in his arms again, knowing you were safe with him.

“Angel?” He spoke softly but still loud enough to hear when he walked back into his bedroom.

You were still in the same place on his bed, but not asleep, just resting your eyes like he had told you earlier, “I’m awake, babe.”

He hummed contentedly, watching as your eyes opened. He was shirtless and his checkered bottoms hung low on his hips, “Light’s on or off?”

“Off please…and do you think you could put on some Iron Maiden?” You suggested

He grinned, clicking the lights off and heading over to his radio, popping in your favorite tape and letting the music surround you, “God, you’re making me fall even more in love with you,”

“Thats the plan.” You lovingly responded, sinking into his warmth when he finally got into bed next to you. Carefully wrapping his arms around your body, being weary of your still injured ribs, and placing a warm kiss to your forehead, “Never going to stop loving you.”

Breathing in his scent, you felt the safest you’ve ever felt in your life, and the most loved you knew you’d be in this lifetime, “Me neither, Eds.”

“Tomorrow we should go see Hopper, file a police report.” He proposed, kissing your forehead as you whined against his chest. It was the last thing you wanted to do.

“Hey,” Eddie moved his head away a little so he could stare at your face in his chest, he reached for your hand, rubbing his thumb against your knuckles, “I’ll be there with you the entire time…I just don’t want him to ever get close to you like that again, he needs to be disciplined, babe.”

You hmph’d aloud, looking up at him through your lashes, “I’m sure you handled it considering you knocked him out cold.”

He couldn’t help the smirk that appeared on his face. He felt proud for doing what he did. Sure, he had to endure years of Jason’s endless bullying, but he wasn’t going to let him get away with what he did to you.

“Yeah, but legally, y’know, it’d be reassuring to know he can’t get into close proximity of you.” His reasoning was fair and you nodded, nuzzling your head back into his chest, “As long as you don’t leave me alone, like you promised.”

Now his fingers intertwined with yours, feeling your pulse in your fingertips and the warmth of your skin, “I always keep my promises, baby.”

“Does this mean we’re official?”

Eddie could feel the smile against his bare chest when the question left your lips, and he nodded, caressing your head with his free hand. “Do me the honors of being my girlfriend?”

“It’d be my greatest honor.” You replied, carefully lifting your head up to connect your lips in a delicate kiss while Iron Maiden’s music continued to play in the background like sweetness.

You both smiled against one another, relishing in this feeling that you knew would never get old, “I’m gonna write a song about us one day,” Eddie spoke through kisses as you giggled, pulling away to stare at his giddy face.

“Yeah? What’re you gonna call it?” You wondered, resting your free palm against his heart, feeling the thumping quicken, all out of tenderness, just staring at you.

“Teenage Dirtbag….how about that?” He wiggled his eyebrows, causing you to grin, resting your forehead against his, pulling him into another sweet kiss that lasted a lifetime before you both pulled away.

If there was one thing you were certain of, it was that you could spend your entire life right here in this very moment with him, as long as it meant never leaving this bed. But you couldn’t wait to get up in the morning and force that guitar in his hands so he could write that song and then the two of you could shout it out from the rooftops for the rest of your love and the world to hear.

“That is so us, baby.”

A/N: Fun fact this is actually the first fic I wrote before "Hey Steven" it just so happened that I finished that one first! I hope you guys enjoyed, let me know what you think!!!

#MunsonsReputation #eddie munson #eddie munson x fem!reader #eddie munson fic #eddie munson x you #eddie munson fluff #eddie munson imagine #eddie munson stranger things #stranger things eddie #eddie x reader #stranger things fluff #stranger things fic

[redfurrycat]

📽️📺TV-Show & Movie-Based Fic Recs📺📽️

Check the Top Gun Masterlist post for the latest updated version. 💕

Ao3 Authors: 64PackofCrayola, Abliafina, AnadoraBlack, Andthentheybow, Anonymous, Arami_d004, Boasamishipper, Boostergold, Broke_Traveler, Buckybraciole, Chase_acow, Content_Scrapbooker, Copacet, Doodlewrite, Duchesscharliejames, Earthangel_44, FabuMazX, Foxhybridmikaelsonargent, Hangmanbradshaw, Happypuppys, Haridwar, Heir2slytherin, Icezansky, Infinitejaust, Katastrophe, Kerbyfullyloaded, Lawrussoauto, LetPeteBeMaverick, Lolibat, LulaluzHazel, Magdarko, MidnightBlast, Nimuetheseawitch, Orphan_account, Puckingrightschicago, ReformedTsundere, Rnadison, Road1985, Rosexpetals, Sreshaw, Thecarlysutra, ToukoJalorda003, Trinipedia, Winterbitch, WWISA.

/27 Dresses/

Save your first and last dance for me by nimuetheseawitch {E}🤠🐓

/50 First Dates/

Days Like This by chase_acow {E}🤠🐓

/Almost Human/

These questions carry me away like a whirlwind by trinipedia {E}🤠🐓

/Anyone But You/

Anyone But You by FabuMazX {M} 🤠🐓

/Battlestar Galactica/

whirlwinds and thunderstorms by boostergold {T}🤠🐓

/Beauty and the Beast/

now I know he’ll never leave me (even as he runs away) by happypuppys {T}🤠🐓

/Brooklyn 99/

the rooster by lawrussoauto {T}🤠🐓

the bet by lawrussoauto {T}☃️🏍️

/Criminal Minds/

minimal loss by andthentheybow {M}🤠🐓

/Dave/

Kind of the same way - TGM Edition by trinipedia {M}☃️🏍️

/Fantastic Four/

They Call Me Mr. Fantastic by Anonymous {E}🤠🐓

/Harry Potter/

Amortentia by thecarlysutra {T}☃️🏍️

seven by orphan_account {_}🤠🐓

/Hidden Legacy/

If the Sky Can Crack by infinitejaust {E}🤠🐓

/His Dark Materials/

his dark materials / dæmon AU by buckybraciole {T}🤠🐓

Walking into the sky by kerbyfullyloaded {T}☃️🏍️

/How To Lose A Guy in 10 Day/

how to lose a guy in ten days by haridwar {T}🤠🐓

/Inception/

Room by Room, Patiently by infinitejaust {M}🤠🐓

/Jurassic Park & World/

You're DINOmite by ReformedTsundere {T}☃️🏍️

it's such a magical mysteria, when you get that feeling by hangmanbradshaw {E}🤠🐓

Dust is Everlasting (And Love Even Moreso) by ToukoJalorda003 {M}🤠🐓

/Mr. & Mrs Smith/

Mr & Mr Kazansky by abliafina {M}☃️🏍️

Mr. And Mr. Kazansky by Lolibat {M}☃️🏍️

/The Mummy/

History's Like Gravity, It Holds You Down Away From Me by hangmanbradshaw {E}🤠🐓

/National Treasure/

You Can Make My Wish Come True, If You Let Me Treasure You by hangmanbradshaw {E}🤠🐓

/The Notebook/

Golden Boy by Earthangel_44 {E}🤠🐓

/Ocean’s Twelve/

When in Rome (and the Alps, and Paris, and...) by LulaluzHazel {T}🤠🐓

/Pacific Rim/

Rec List 🤠🐓☃️🏍️

/The Parent Trap/

Brilliant Beyond Brilliant Idea by boasamishipper {T}☃️🏍️

The Parent Trap by Broke_Traveler {T}🤠🐓

/Percy Jackson/

a force to be reckoned with by winterbitch {T}🤠🐓

/Persuasion/

Watching, I Keep Waiting by infinitejaust {G}🤠🐓

/Planes, Trains, and Automobiles/

Planes, Trains, and Gay People by sreshaw {E}🤠🐓

/Princess Diaries 2/

stolen kisses, pretty lies by hangmanbradshaw {E}🤠🐓(//HTLAGI10D)

/Princess & the Frog/

it's 2am and I’m cursing your name by hangmanbradshaw {E}🤠🐓

/Purple Hearts/

I Don't Wanna Live Through This Comedown  by Road1985, trinipedia {E}🤠🐓

/Scooby Doo/

you’re not fooling me (I can see) by magdarko {T}🤠🐓

/Set It Up/

Set It Up by Foxhybridmikaelsonargent {_}🤠🐓

Set it Up AU by AnadoraBlack {T}🤠🐓☃️🏍️

you take it to the heart (the waiting is the hardest part) by puckingrightschicago {G}🤠🐓☃️🏍️

Cyrano by arami_d004 {G}🤠🐓

and yet by heir2slytherin {_}🤠🐓

The Happy Moment Will Arrive When I Shall See by WWISA {T}🤠🐓☃️🏍️

dirty white chucks (and I can't get clean) by rnadison {T}

/Stargate Atlantis/

the afterburner by copacet {E}☃️🏍️

/Star Wars/

The Best the Galaxy has to offer by AnadoraBlack {M}🤠🐓

a look from you (and I would fall from grace) by rnadison {G}☃️🏍️

king of my heart - icemav star wars au by rosexpetals {T}☃️🏍️

caught in the fire (say oh we're about to explode) by doodlewrite {G}☃️🏍️

/Survivor/

Survivor: Maverick by icezansky {T}🤠🐓

/Swan Princess/

Swan Prince by 64PackofCrayola {_}🤠🐓

/Tangled/

Man of his own invention by trinipedia {T}🤠🐓

/Twister/

you were nothing but trouble, baby and I've been sifting through the rubble lately by hangmanbradshaw {M}🤠🐓

Twist My Heart by MidnightBlast {E}🤠🐓

/When Harry Met Sally/

When Jake Met Bradley by infinitejaust {M}🤠🐓

/The Sound of Music/

The Sound of Freedom by Katastrophe {G}🤠🐓☃️🏍️

Of Hills and Airplanes (That Always Seem Insurmountable) by ToukoJalorda003 {M}🤠🐓

/The West Wing/

Out You Come [from Recovery Period Series] by Content_Scrapbooker {T}☃️🏍️

kazansky for america by duchesscharliejames {T}{G}☃️🏍️

Maverick for America by LetPeteBeMaverick {T}{M}{E}🤠🐓☃️🏍️

#TV-Show & Movie-Based Recs List #hangster #sereshaw #hangaroo #icemav #bradley rooster bradshaw x jake hangman seresin #tom iceman kazansky x pete maverick mitchell #🐈red🐈furry🐈cat🐈tag🐈

[darknesseddiem]

𝐀𝐧𝐮𝐛𝐢𝐬'𝐬 𝐕𝐞𝐢𝐥: 𝐄𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

𝐒𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐬: Ramses Thothmes, a wealthy Egyptian magnate, extends an invitation for a new excavation, promising untold secrets hidden beneath the desert's surface. As you convene with Thothmes to discuss the venture, a new figure emerges from the shadows – the enigmatic Colonel Duncan Smith.

Under Smith's watchful eye, the expedition sets forth into uncharted territory, where ancient ruins conceal dark secrets and lethal perils.

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: +18 MDNI, mentions of dead parents, reader has "Fagan" as the last name, none.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 5,5k

𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲

𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫'𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞: Posting this early 'cause I got a meeting today. Enjoy your reading babes!

𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞'𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭

𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫.

As you and Steve traverse through the corridors of Mr. Thothmes' office, a sense of anticipation hangs thick in the air. Just earlier, a cryptic phone call from Mr. Thothmes summoned you both to an urgent meeting regarding a new excavation. Now, as you stand mere steps away from entering his chamber, your mind races with questions, curiosity gnawing at your every thought.

Each hallway seems to stretch endlessly, the flickering lights casting elongated shadows along the polished floors. The atmosphere is charged with a sense of importance, every corner holding the promise of revelation and discovery. With each approaching door, the weight of anticipation grows heavier, like a palpable veil of mystery enveloping your senses.

The echoes of your footsteps resonate through the corridor, a rhythmic cadence echoing the steady beat of your heart. The allure of the unknown beckons, drawing you inexorably closer to the threshold of possibility.

As you stand poised on the precipice of this new chapter, the thrill of anticipation courses through your veins like electricity. For in this moment, you are on the cusp of embarking upon a journey that may reshape the very fabric of history itself.

"Harrington! Ah, and my favorite archaeologist!" A pot-bellied old man, probably in his fifties, welcomed you both with a hearty greeting as he swung open the grand door of polished mahogany. "Come in, come in!!" He ushered you and Steve into his sanctum with a sweeping gesture.

Stepping over the threshold, you are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication and antiquity. The walls are adorned with a rich palette of colors, exuding an air of regal elegance. Deep shades of mahogany and ebony mingle with soft accents of ivory and gold, creating a sense of timeless luxury.

At the heart of the room stands an imposing desk of dark wood, its surface intricately carved with motifs reminiscent of ancient hieroglyphs. Behind it, shelves lined with leather-bound tomes and ornate artifacts whisper tales of bygone eras, each item a treasure trove of history waiting to be explored.

The furniture, upholstered in sumptuous fabrics and adorned with delicate filigree, beckons you to sink into its embrace. Plush velvet cushions offer respite from the rigors of the outside world, while ornate chairs with gilded armrests exude an air of refined opulence.

Throughout the room, the soft glow of ambient lighting bathes everything in a warm, inviting aura. Intricately carved candelabras cast dancing shadows across the walls, their flickering flames lending an air of mystique to the surroundings.

On every available surface, meticulously curated artifacts and antiquities are proudly displayed. Ancient statues stand sentinel, their weathered features bearing witness to the passage of time. Glittering jewels and polished gems catch the light, their brilliance a testament to the wealth and power of civilizations long gone.

As you take in the sights and sounds of this magnificent chamber, a sense of reverence washes over you. For here, in this hallowed space, you stand on the threshold of history itself, poised to uncover the secrets of the ages.

"Ah..." The man's sigh carried the weight of centuries as he eased into one of the plush grey armchairs, crafted from the supple hide of seals. His eyes, like ancient tomes, held secrets untold as he poured a measure of brandy into a crystal glass, the amber liquid swirling with the promise of forgotten tales.

"I presume you received my call earlier?" His voice, smooth as polished marble, resonated with the echoes of ages past, a knowing smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"Uh..." You exchanged a glance with Steve, who was drawn to the intricacies of the art adorning the office walls like a moth to flame, his fascination palpable in the flicker of his gaze. With a subtle roll of your eyes, you summoned the words to respond. "Yes, you mentioned something about a new excavation, if memory serves."

His demeanor shifted, morphing into an aura of solemnity and intrigue. "Let's just say... it's not your run-of-the-mill excavation, confined to the depths of a tomb or the shadows of a pyramid," he intoned cryptically, the glint in his eyes hinting at untold secrets swirling within the depths of his mind. With a deliberate motion, he raised the glass of brandy to his lips, savoring the amber liquid as if it held the key to ancient mysteries.

"Why don't you both have a seat so we can discuss this further?" His gesture encompassed the other plush armchairs surrounding the dark wooden table, it was only then that you realized your own stance, frozen in the doorway like a sentinel of the past, while Steve remained ensnared by the allure of the unknown, his curiosity guiding him further into the depths of the enigma before you.

Your legs propelled you forward with an urgency that betrayed the gravity of the moment, guiding you to the plush embrace of the armchair before Thothmes. Your eyes, like intrepid explorers, scanned the room for a glimpse of connection, seeking solace in the warmth of a familiar gaze. They settled upon a pair of mesmerizing honey-colored orbs, ensnared by the enigmatic allure of a Sphynx cat statue adorned with glistening golden earrings.

With a discreet clearing of your throat, Steve's eyes met yours, a silent exchange of understanding passing between you. His gaze lingered for a moment, before you gestured towards the seat beside Thothmes.

"Proceed," you said with a nod, your hands resting calmly in your lap as you awaited the unfolding revelation. The tension in the room was palpable, a silent acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation.

"Last week, we received a warning of a rockfall on a mountain in the Whale Desert," the old man continued, his voice carrying the weight of impending revelation. You glanced at your fellow Egyptologist, now sitting beside you, noting the quiet contemplation that settled over him, mirroring your own thoughts.

"We initially believed we were dealing with the remains of some other fossil or skeleton of a large animal," he continued, his words punctuated by the weight of uncertainty. "So, we dispatched a team of paleontologists to investigate the crash site."

As he finished speaking, a heavy silence descended upon the room, punctuated only by the sound of liquid being drained from the glass in his hand, leaving an ominous echo lingering in the air.

"It turned out it wasn't a fossil, much less a skeleton, so we withdrew the team," he explained, folding his hands thoughtfully on the table before him. The weight of uncertainty hung heavy in the air, a silent reminder of the unknown lurking in the shadows.

"And what about the unconventional excavation? Do you want us to dig these caves?" Steve's inquiry cut through the tension, his raised eyebrow accentuating the skepticism in his voice. The soft glow of the office lights played off his eyebrow piercing, lending an air of defiance to his demeanor.

"We don't excavate caves, Thothmes. Tombs, pyramids, temples, abandoned galleries—that's our domain, not caves," you interjected solemnly, a note of frustration creeping into your voice as you questioned the purpose of this meeting.

"My dear, I never said it was a cave," Thothmes replied cryptically, his words hanging in the air like a shroud of mystery, leaving you to ponder the true nature of the task that lay before you.

"What do you mean 'not a cave'?" you pressed, exchanging a perplexed glance with Steve. Meanwhile, a knowing smile spread across the businessman's face, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

"What I am about to reveal to you is company confidential and must not leave this room," he began, his tone weighted with significance. He paused, casting a meaningful look between the two of you before continuing. "Apparently, we have stumbled upon a type of sanctuary hidden within the mountain. We still don't know its origin or which people it belongs to. But I believe that the best person to lead an exploration expedition is you, one of the finest archaeologists in the business and a trusted friend."

Steve's mocking expression and suppressed laughter didn't escape your notice, but you remained fixed on Thothmes, feeling like a fish out of water as you struggled to find the right words.

"I... Um, it's a departure from our usual expeditions," you managed to explain, your words stumbling out in a rush. "I might need a team of professional excavators, not to mention the logistics of an excavation site in the middle of the desert. The costs for—"

But before you could finish your sentence, the old man interjected firmly, cutting off your concerns. "We are not talking about costs here, my dear. I will pay whatever it takes if it means you will take charge of this exploration," he declared, his gesture dismissing any financial worries with a wave of his hand.

Your eyes met Steve's, finding reassurance in his nod of encouragement. Taking a deep breath, you found resolve in his silent support. "Well..." you began tentatively, feeling a surge of determination wash over you. "In that case, we accept!"

"Perfeito!" The old gentleman's eyes sparkled with excitement as he clapped his hands together, a sense of anticipation palpable in the air. With a graceful stride, he crossed the room to one of the ornate paintings adorning the walls, his movements fluid and purposeful. With a gentle yet deliberate touch, he shifted the painting aside, revealing a hidden safe concealed behind it.

A hushed murmur of intrigue rippled through the room as the safe was unveiled, its metallic surface gleaming softly in the ambient light. With practiced ease, the old man dialed the combination, the tumblers clicking into place with a satisfying finality. With a soft thud, the door swung open, revealing the contents within.

From the depths of the safe, he retrieved a thick folder, its pages brimming with secrets waiting to be discovered. With a sense of reverence, he placed the folder on the table before you and Steve, the weight of its contents echoing the gravity of the task ahead.

"Here are some basic information about the site, team suggestions, equipment availability... Everything you need," he declared, his voice carrying a note of solemnity and determination. As you and Steve pored over the documents before you, a sense of adventure tinged with uncertainty filled the room, setting the stage for the journey that lay ahead.

"You mentioned something about the Whale Desert," Steve's tone was laced with skepticism. "I know full well that area is extremely inhospitable and nearly uninhabitable," he continued, his brows furrowed in concern. "We'll likely have to set up camp there, which worries me a bit due to the region's propensity for attacks by art thieves..." You vocalized, your own brow furrowing as you contemplated the level of danger involved.

Thothmes's laughter echoed through the cozy room, filling the space with a sense of warmth and reassurance. "My friends, why all this concern?" he asked theatrically, his eyes twinkling with confidence. "I've already made sure to hire an elite team for your protection. They're highly qualified to handle this type of terrain, so there's no need to worry.”

As Steve's eyes communicated a promise of future discussions, a silent pact passed between you both.

"In that case, we accept the challenge," Harrington proclaimed, his voice carrying a note of determination that bordered on defiance.

"Very well, it's yours," the old man conceded with a gracious nod, extending his hand for you and Steve to shake. His eyes held a glint of admiration as he added, "It's always a pleasure doing business with you, Miss." The weight of his words hung in the air, hinting at a history of mutual respect and shared endeavors.

As you both bid farewell to Thothmes and exited the room, you couldn't resist slapping Steve on the arm.

"What was that for?" Steve exclaimed, rubbing his arm where your hand had made contact.

"It's for your behavior today," you replied sharply, your frustration evident in your tone.

"And should I mention how bizarre that proposition was? And all this secrecy?" Steve grumbled, clearly frustrated by the situation.

"Steve, my dear and esteemed companion, care to explain why you think this is a strange proposal? I don't know if you've realized, but we're archaeologists, well, I'm more of one than you... But there's nothing strange about a proposal for excavation in a different terrain," your voice laced with false calmness as the two of you walked out of the building.

"I don't know... Something about all this seems off to me, call it a gut feeling or something, but I don't think he reached out to us just out of camaraderie," Steve voiced his concerns as he unlocked the car. "Maybe you didn't notice, but he lied about the sanctuary." A pair of intense honey-colored eyes met yours. "Thothmes knows what's in that cave, and he knows exactly where it came from." A strange sensation coursed through your body.

"How can you be so sure?" Thothmes wasn't known for his lies, quite the opposite. "Body language, that old man loves a face-to-face conversation, but he looked away as soon as he spoke," Steve explained, his voice tinged with disbelief. You glanced at him incredulously, the sound of the car engine turning over becoming background noise.

"Because he look away? Seriously, Steve?" You shook your head. "I think hunger is starting to affect your brain. We should stop for lunch." He rolled his eyes but maintained the same thoughtful and suspicious expression for the rest of the way to the nearest restaurant.

Back in the dimly lit office, Thothmes stood by the window, a phone pressed to his ear while he held a glass of tequila in his other hand, the amber liquid swirling ominously.

"Mr. Raneb? It's me," his voice echoed through the receiver, the words carrying a weight of secrecy and intrigue.

"Thothmes, how many times do I have to remind you not to use that name?" The voice on the other end crackled with authority, sending a shiver down Thothmes' spine.

"My apologies, Mr. Damien. But I bring news," Thothmes replied, his tone subdued yet filled with urgency.

"What news?" The question hung in the air like a foreboding cloud, thick with tension.

"A sanctuary has been unearthed in the heart of the Whale Desert," Thothmes revealed, his voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid of being overheard.

There was a pregnant pause on the other end of the line, the silence stretching taut like a wire.

"I've secured the services of the finest archaeologist to explore the depths of the mountain," Thothmes continued, his words laden with implication.

"Get that bastard out of there as soon as possible," came the icy command, the line abruptly going dead before Thothmes could respond, leaving him alone with his thoughts and the unsettling knowledge of what lay ahead.

Seated in the cozy nook of "Cleo's Kitchen," you and Steve perused the menu, your stomachs growling in anticipation of the feast to come.

"We're gonna dive into two hawawshi, gotta have that koshary fix, and wash it all down with a pitcher of Asab, ya know?" you grinned at the waitress, your enthusiasm infectious.

"Oh, and throw in a Kunafa for dessert, 'cause we're treating ourselves today," Steve chimed in, nodding in agreement.

With the order placed, you leaned back in your chair, already imagining the burst of flavors awaiting your taste buds, the atmosphere alive with the promise of culinary delights and good company.

The tantalizing aroma of sizzling meat and fragrant spices filled the air as your order arrived at the table. The hawawshi boasted a crispy exterior and a savory filling of minced meat, onions, and aromatic herbs, tantalizing your senses with each bite. Next to it, the koshary presented a colorful medley of lentils, rice, pasta, and caramelized onions, topped with a drizzle of tangy tomato sauce and a sprinkling of crunchy fried onions. The pitcher of Asab, a traditional Egyptian drink made from fermented barley, promised a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor, perfect for washing down the hearty meal. And finally, the Kunafa arrived, a decadent dessert featuring layers of crisp, golden pastry filled with sweet cheese and drenched in a fragrant sugar syrup, offering a delightful balance of textures and flavors to round off your culinary journey.

"I'll tell ya, there's nothin' like this food," Steve mumbled between mouthfuls of koshary, a satisfied grin spreading across his face.

"You know what really gets me about our job?" You took a swig of your drink, relishing the cool refreshment. "The food. I mean, getting to taste all these exotic flavors, it's like a culinary adventure every time we're on the road."

"Yeah, but sometimes I just crave a good ol' burger, fries, and a giant soda," Steve chuckled, a twinkle of nostalgia in his eyes as he recalled a fond memory.

You smiled along with him, your eyes drifting to the sleek black folder nestled in your backpack. Intrigued, you reached for it, flipping it open to peruse its contents.

"Thothmes must've had his coffee this morning," you remarked, flipping through the contents of the folder with a wry smile.

"What's in it?" Steve leaned over, his curiosity piqued.

"An excavation permit signed, site details, a list of available machinery and vehicles, info on our elite team... you know, the usual drill," you replied nonchalantly, snapping the folder shut and diving back into your meal.

As he perused the contents of the folder, you indulged in the divine feast before you, savoring each flavorful bite.

"Seems like it's the same old song and dance," he remarked, tucking the folder away into his backpack. "So, what's on the agenda for today, boss?" he teased, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Back to the hotel to tackle a mountain of mundane tasks—endless phone calls, a deluge of emails, and compiling a laundry list of necessities. I want everything squared away by tomorrow," you declared, finishing off your drink and signaling for the bill.

"Whoa, easy there, tiger," he joked. "I still want to enjoy my vacation a bit. Can't it wait another... five days?"

"I'll strangle you if it's not tomorrow," you replied, handing the Egyptian pounds to the waitress and getting up with him.

"Be gentle with me, sweetheart, I'm delicate, you know?" You playfully nudged him and exited the restaurant together.

Back at the hotel, your afternoon resembled a bustling marketplace of phone calls, list-making marathons, email exchanges, and deep dives into research into the cozy five-star room.

The walls are adorned in rich tones of chocolate brown and sleek black, exuding a sophisticated ambiance that immediately captivates the senses.

At the center of the room stand two queen-size beds, each adorned with crisp white linens that contrast beautifully against the deep hues of the walls. The bedding is accented with delicate cream-colored details, adding a touch of refinement to the inviting sleeping quarters. Plush pillows and sumptuous duvets promise a restful night's sleep, while the meticulously made beds beckon you to sink into their welcoming embrace.

Between the beds, a sleek bedside table stands, its polished surface gleaming softly in the ambient light. Against one wall, a spacious wardrobe offers ample storage for your belongings, its dark wood finish complementing the elegant decor of the room. Inside, plush bathrobes and slippers await, promising indulgent comfort and relaxation during your stay.

"Finally, I thought that day would never end..." The guy dramatically collapsed onto the bed, limbs splayed out like a starfish.

"We need to double-check everything before sundown, Stevie," you announced, stifling a laugh as he protested like a petulant child.

"Alright, let's get this show on the road." He snatched up a sheet of paper eagerly. "We'll dispatch three REO M35 trucks as advance scouts, loaded with the gear to establish our campsite. Another trio will accompany the team and transport our machinery; each truck's capacity should more than suffice." You outlined the plan as Steve diligently scribbled down the details. "Then we'll send in four more trucks stocked with provisions and water, followed by a lone Jeep for us to navigate the terrain and carry any additional essentials." He nodded in agreement, his excitement matching yours for the upcoming expedition.

"Our security detail boasts a robust lineup of 25 individuals, poised to lend a hand until we arrive," he remarked, his eyebrows shooting up in mild disbelief. "Quite the pampering we're receiving, isn't it?"

"Stay on track, Steve. We're expecting new equipment to kick things off, so keep a watchful eye on the team while I delve into our location research," you concluded with a weary sigh.

"About time, too. I was beginning to feel like I needed glasses from all this fine print," you shared a laugh, easing the tension of the moment.

"Found something interesting while digging into the location," you announced, making your way to the bed and flopping down.

"What? Some sketchy website?" He waggled his eyebrows mischievously, earning a pillow tossed his way.

"Gross," you wrinkled your nose in disgust. "It's an ancient legend about that desert, reminded me of a tale my folks used to tell me," you settled onto your side, glancing at him.

"You know I'm a sucker for ancient legends, spill it," he grinned eagerly.

"The legend goes that the desert was once part of the ocean, where the caves were as beautiful and colorful as coral reefs, unique to that little piece of sky. In those waters, giant whales roamed, and it was the domain of Apophis, the colossal serpent who was once the guardian of those waters," you recounted, weaving the tale with an air of mystery.

"But one day, the gods descended from the heavens and plunged into the deep waters. No one knows why, but there was a deafening roar followed by a scream that echoed across the four corners of the world. The gods ascended again, but they took all the water with them. Everything that lived there perished that day, except Apophis. They say the serpent still guards something there to this day," you concluded, and Steve sat there, mouth agape, captivated by the ancient tale.

"The whale skeletons! It's all starting to make sense now, isn't it?" Steve exclaimed, his eyes alight with excitement. "You mentioned it reminded you of a story your parents used to tell you. Now I'm even more intrigued," he urged, leaning in eagerly.

"Well, they had this fascinating tale about a warrior condemned to an eternal prison. The gods sealed him away in a cave, protected by a colossal serpent, in a place that was once submerged beneath the sea," you explained, the words carrying an air of mystery and ancient legend.

“I love this stuff... But hey, did they find any snake bones out there?” He asked hopefully.

“Not that I know of, but some say if you look out into the desert at night, from a certain vantage point, you can see the outline of a giant serpent slithering through the caves.” Steve seemed utterly captivated by the legend.

"No more tales for tonight." You yawned and settled into bed, as you and Steve always shared the room, pulling the covers snugly around you.

"Fine by me," Steve replied with a wink. "But I'll be dreaming of giant snakes and ancient mysteries."

Chuckling, you wished him goodnight, "Sleep well, my fellow adventurer."

"Likewise, Bug," Steve quipped, using the nickname he'd coined after discovering your fascination with scarab beetles.

That night, as you drifted into slumber, your mind ventured into a vivid dreamworld. In this dream, a mysterious figure immersed himself in the gentle embrace of a flowing river. His presence was enigmatic, veiled behind a striking jackal mask. Crafted with meticulous care, the mask enshrouded half of his face, its golden accents gleaming softly in the moonlight. Intricate designs adorned the mask's eyes, snout, ears, and forehead, adding an air of ancient mystique to his visage. A sheer black veil trailed from the back of the mask, dancing gently in the breeze like a wisp of shadow.

Beneath the mask, strands of dark, lustrous hair cascaded in luxurious waves, framing his strong and tattooed shoulders. Each curl seemed to sway rhythmically with the rhythm of the river, lending an ethereal quality to his presence. With a graceful movement, one of his hands rose to the mask's snout, lifting it ever so delicately, as if revealing a hidden truth or unveiling a long-guarded secret...

Suddenly, the tranquility of the dream was shattered by the intrusive blare of your alarm clock, jolting you awake from your reverie.

"If you don't shut that thing off, I swear I'll strangle myself with the sheets," Steve grumbled from his bed, buried under the covers.

As you turned off the blaring alarm, you couldn't help but chuckle at Steve's grumpy response from beneath the covers. "I promise I won't let it kill you," you teased, making your way to the bathroom.

The bathroom was a luxurious retreat within the hotel room, with its two rectangular marble sinks, each featuring intricately designed golden faucets that gleamed in the soft morning light filtering through the window. The faucets, elegantly curved like the necks of swans, seemed to add a touch of regality to the space.

Above each sink, a large and ornate mirror hung, its delicate frame adding a sense of refinement to the room. Below the mirrors, a spacious marble countertop provided ample space for toiletries, with neatly arranged towels and bath essentials adding to the sense of organization and luxury.

Taking a moment to appreciate the serene ambiance of the bathroom, you leaned against the sink, feeling the cool marble beneath your palms. Another day of adventure awaited, but for now, you allowed yourself to bask in the tranquility of the morning.

You brushed your teeth and then stripped down, making your way to the opposite side of the bathroom where a deep cobalt blue bathtub awaited you. The bathtub was a luxurious indulgence, its smooth curves and inviting depths promising relaxation and rejuvenation.

With a contented sigh, you stepped into the warm embrace of the water, feeling the tension of the night's sleep slowly melt away. As you submerged yourself, the scent of lavender-infused bath salts filled the air, soothing your senses and easing your mind.

The water cascaded over your skin in a gentle caress, washing away the remnants of sleep and leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated. Closing your eyes, you allowed yourself to luxuriate in the moment, savoring the sensation of warmth and comfort enveloping you.

For a few precious moments, the world outside faded away, leaving only the soothing embrace of the bathtub and the soft hum of the hotel's air conditioning.

You emerged from the bath feeling refreshed, the scent of lavender-scented bath salts still lingering in the air. As you reached for one of the luxurious, embroidered robes hanging neatly by the sink, a sudden rap at the door interrupted your tranquil moment. "Bug, if you don't get out that bathroom in the next five seconds, I swear I'll pee on the carpet," your roommate's voice echoed through the door, tinged with urgency and a hint of desperation.

With a soft chuckle, you wrapped yourself in the plush robe, relishing its warmth against your skin, and called out, "Hold your horses, Steve, I'm on my way!" The fabric billowed around you as you strode to the door, feeling refreshed and ready to face the day's adventures.

Steve entered the bathroom for his morning routine, giving you the chance to get dressed. You opted for terracotta-colored khaki pants with a stylish double fold at the ankles, paired with a crisp white short-sleeved button-up shirt. Completing the ensemble, you adorned yourself with a brown fedora, a leather harness secured around your waist to hold brushes and a small dagger, plenty of sunscreen, and most importantly, your protective amulet.

The pendant bestowed upon you by your parents at the age of ten holds profound significance. At its center, an intricate piece of obsidian depicts the head of Anubis, the god of the underworld. Emerging from each side of Anubis's head, two stylized wings extend towards the sides of the necklace. Just below Anubis's head, rests a symbol of the Eye of Horus, carved into a blue stone. According to your parents, this necklace symbolizes spiritual protection and divine insight, serving as a constant reminder of their love and guardianship even in the face of the unknown.

With a deep breath to dispel any lingering thoughts, you fastened the golden necklace around your neck, ready to face the challenges of the day ahead.

As you and Steve descended to the lobby, your footsteps echoing softly against the polished marble floors, a formidable figure stood in wait. Clad in an all-black uniform, impeccably tailored and adorned with sleek golden accents, he exuded an air of authority that commanded attention. His cap, adorned with a subtle golden insignia, sat atop his head with a dignified tilt. His gaze, sharp and penetrating, seemed to pierce through the bustling lobby, fixing upon you and Steve with an intensity that hinted at the gravity of the task ahead.

As you approached the man, Steve headed to the reception desk, leaving you to initiate the conversation. The Colonel greeted you with a nod of his head, his demeanor exuding a sense of formality and professionalism.

"Miss..." He acknowledged you with a slight bow of his head, his tone respectful.

"You must be Colonel Duncan Smith," you extended your hand towards him, and he clasped it firmly in his own. "I'm the archaeologist who enlisted your services."

"Ah, Thothmes has spoken highly of you," he responded warmly. Duncan was a man nearing his forties, towering and muscular, exuding an aura of strength and authority. His physique spoke of years of discipline and dedication to his craft. A striking feature was his fiery blond-red mustache, complementing his jet-black hair with hints of gray, swept back in a manner that exuded confidence. His piercing green eyes held a depth that hinted at both wisdom and experience, observing the world with a keen intellect and unwavering determination.

"I hope only good things," you chuckled lightly, trying to ease the tension.

"The very best," he affirmed with a reassuring smile.

"Everything's set, can we go?" Steve inquired upon his return.

"The car is waiting for you both. I sent the rest of the team ahead to set up camp," Duncan informed. "I wanted to make sure personally that you would arrive safely," he added, extending his hand. "Colonel Duncan Smith."

Steve shook his hand and introduced himself, "Steve Harrington, Egyptologist."

"Shall we?" Smith gestured towards the exit, indicating it was time to depart.

In the car, Colonel Smith decided to address the curiosity that had been gnawing at him since the previous day.

"Sorry to intrude, Miss," he began, and you looked at him as if urging him to continue. "But is your last name by any chance Fagan?" he asked, curiosity evident in his expression.

"Yes, that was my father's last name. He was also an archaeologist," you replied, a fond smile touching your lips as you remembered your beloved father. But soon, concern crept in as you noticed the expression on Duncan's face. "Why do you ask?"

He looked at you with an inscrutable gaze.

"Thothmes didn't tell you," he stated rather than asked. "Didn’t tell what?" Steve interjected on your behalf.

Nothing could have prepared you for what was to come.

"Your parents died before they could excavate in that desert, in the same location we are heading to," Colonel Smith revealed. Both men looked at you, noticing your stunned expression.

A flood of emotions surged within you as Colonel Smith's words sank in. All you knew was that your parents had died in an accident before an excavation. There had been an explosion caused by one of the newcomers, which tragically claimed the lives of the entire team. Some speculated it was a premeditated homicide.

With a heavy heart, yet resolute, you spoke with confidence, ""I will honor the sacred legacy of my parents and achieve what they could only dream of.”

Duncan and Steve exchanged discreet smiles, recognizing the courage and determination in your gaze.

As the car pressed on along the road toward the unknown, the landscape shifted around you, the desert stretching out in all directions like an endless sea of sand and mystery. Duncan, observing you from the rearview mirror, made a silent vow to himself to protect you at all costs, even if it meant risking his own life. In that moment, the weight of responsibility mingled with the enigma of the desert, creating an atmosphere charged with emotions and anticipation for what lay ahead.

With each passing mile, the sun cast long shadows across the dunes, painting the sky with hues of white and blue. The air was thick with a sense of adventure and apprehension, each breath carrying the promise of discovery and danger. And amidst it all, you sat, a beacon of determination amidst the vast expanse of sand, your resolve unwavering in the face of the unknown.

Taglist: @ali-r3n @birdysaturne

#darknesseddiemfics #eddie munson #eddie munson x reader #eddie munson fanfic #eddie munson x y/n #eddie munson x you #eddie smut #eddiemunson #dark!eddie munson #eddie munson x f!reader #eddie munson smut #eddie stranger things #eddie x reader #eddie munson angst #eddie munson stranger things #bestfriend!eddie munson #older!eddie munson #eddie munson imagine #eddie the freak munson #demigod!eddie munson

[hamsamwich23]

"2002"

Words: 2,042

<"You find a white VHS tape under the floorboards of the house... it's dusty, and covered in what appears to be bloodstains...the label on the front has nothing on it except for a year....2002...">

<do you want to play this tape?">

<;⚠️warning, the following tape contains topics that some may find triggering or discomforting. This includes Blood, implied gore, horror themes, brutal murder, implied death/murder of a child/children, death, ect. Please be cautious if you decide to view this tape⚠️>

[Y] [N]

<playing tape....>

To the public, Hameln was an incredible and well respected business. Their work and creations made to benefit children and their education were beloved by children and parents all around. It brought joy and made teaching easier for the people in these hard times while the Earth continued its unpredictable changes… 

If only they knew what Hamelns true intentions were…and what was really happening behind the company walls. 

If only they could hear the pained screams that came from below the floors… if only…if only… 

The CEO of Hamlen stood in his office, watching the traffic outside of his window. All these people innocently going about their day…completely ignorant. 

How perfect 

Absolutely perfect. 

All of them were unaware of their project or their experiments. Completely oblivious.

There had been reports of illegal equipment and substances going missing…And right after thatt was the unexplained disappearance of a certain show's beloved creator. Sam Colton.  

But of course, no one suspected Hameln, the most child friendly company out there. The company Sam was working with right before he vanished…

He may as well have everyone wrapped around his finger at this point, he and his business were so well respected that no one would ever think to take them into consideration when anything like this happened. They were walking and driving by the enemy they were “desperately” trying to find.

Of course, Even if they were the last ones to be suspected of any crimes, they had to remain careful.

After all, if anyone were to catch on….it would be all over. 

That could not happen. They had already come so far. He would NOT let anything or anyone ruin this….

“Mr.Hameln?” 

A voice behind the office door called out the CEO’s alibi name.

Using his own company name as his last…how incredibly smart of him, right?

“Hmm? Come on in!”

The door opened, a man dressed in a surgical uniform walked inside. He reeked of iron and his uniform was covered in blood.

“Hameln” smiled at the sight. 

“Ah, Doctor Smith! I was hoping you would come in! I see you’ve been doing what I asked of you. Although, I was hoping you’d be a bit more…professional. Please tell me you didn’t track blood all over my clean floors!” 

The man chuckled at his own comment while the neurosurgeon just shook his head. “Now is hardly the time for this, sir. This is no laughing matter”

“Oh I was being serious. But you’re right. Now tell me, how much have you accomplished?”

“The boy that you chose for the role of the sheep in the cartoon is ready. I attached the provided device into his brain. As we speak, his consciousness is being transferred…We are preparing to repeat the experimental procedure with Coltons daughter.” 

“Perfect. And his memories? Will he remember any of this?”

“...he shouldn’t. He was barely holding onto what he knew while I was stitching his head”

“Good. If he remembers any of this upon waking up it would ruin everything. I appreciate your hard work, but you wasted your time putting him back together.”

“....Excuse me. What the hell does that mean?”

“Language, Mr. Smith!! Anyways, I would assume it was obvious. We can’t exactly…keep their bodies you know. We would get shut down immediately.”

“Should we not try to at least give them a proper farewell? They were children. And technically, they still are.” 

“Funny how you didn’t take that into account while you were taking poor [ERROR] apart! Rather hypocritical of you, wouldn’t you say?”

The CEO grinned as Mr.Smith glared at him, but said nothing. They both knew he was right. Smith was no better than “Hameln” or anyone else taking part in this operation.

“Now then…before you take care of Rebecca…I want you to dispose of the body..Take it to my dear friend downtown….The bu-"

[Tape Error!! Restarting tape….]

[Resta..rt….ing….]

[Re…]

[“I know where Sam is, [REDACTED]”]

[Start…..]

[“I know you and Rebecca have been worried sick about him…”]

[Starting…]

[“How about you meet me down beneath the company floors tonight while your friend is resting…and I’ll tell you EVERYTHING…”]

[Restarting-g-g-g-g tape]

......

This wasn’t right. 

The boy had been walking for what felt like days.through the never ending pitch black emptiness that consumed the world around him. It was dark and cold. There was no one else here, nor was there anything he could use. He didn’t know where he was going,or where he even was to begin with. This place seemed to be infinite…and he felt like he was trapped….This looked like something that would be a nightmare, but he was certain he wasn’t sleeping, he would have waken up by now, wouldn’t he?

Not unless he was…dead..

But…that couldn’t be possible. There was no way he was dead. There was no way..there had to be an explanation for this. This had too be….a dream..he had just fallen asleep right? Just a while ago?

….He couldn’t, remember. He couldn’t recall, anything really. Not even his own name..

This…

Maybe this was a self aware sort of dream. And he was consciously living through it…

Which sounded, almost as scary as death. But as long as he woke up soon…

Things would be okay, everything would..

The boy gasped as a sharp pain ran through his arm. He grabbed onto his shoulder, trembling. Maybe this was part of the dream? Or maybe this was…phantom pain. That had somehow made this way into this nightmare..

He looked down at his arm…and what he saw made him scream. 

His arm was scrawnier and his fingers….he barely had fingers anymore. They looked more like hooves….three hooved…fingers..? What….the heck…

Upon further inspection of himself, he noticed something…forming around his neck. Something fuzzy. He felt it with his other hand….it felt like..wool..

From a sheep…

No

No, no, no..

Panicking, the boy began to run through the darkness, tears welling up in his eyes. His body was slowly changing into something else. He could feel it. His other arm was now changing, and more wool was forming all over his body…and the pain…he was in so much pain, and as he kept changing, it kept getting progressively worse… 

But he had to keep going. There had to be an end to this place..and with the end there would be an exit, right?? 

He ran and ran and ran..but there was nothing in sight..nothing…absolutely nothing… 

He couldn’t take it anymore. The pain was becoming unbearable. It felt like someone was tearing him apart, piece. By. piece. 

He fell to the floor, letting out another loud scream. He screamed and cried and wailed as the horrible pain continued…

This…this couldn’t be real. There was no way this was real. 

This didn’t even feel like a dream anymore. It felt like some sick and twisted punishment in the form of a nightmare…

Why him of all people? Had he done something to deserve this?? 

He didn’t know. He couldn’t remember anything. What had he done? What could have happened for this outcome to take place??

WHY couldn’t he remember…

The pain began to die down, but he still felt so sore..he couldn’t stop himself from crying. It was too much to bear. 

“Someone…h-help…help m-me…” he choked out, trying to stand himself back up. He immediately fell right back onto the ground. He looked down at his feet, they had become hooves…

What was this?!

“Help!! Help me please!! I’m sorry!! Whatever I’ve done I’m so sorry!!!”

Of course..nobody answered. 

It was hopeless. 

He was trapped alone in an infinite void with nothing..and he didn’t even know why….or how this came to be.. 

A sudden bright light pulled the boy away from his thoughts, he covered his eyes at first, a sudden light being turned on after being in the dark for so long hurt his eyes… but when he could open his eyes again, there was…a giant white rectangle in front of him.

It buzzed and made unusual static noises, kind of like… a tv..

He went to stand up again, his legs wobbled as he tried to balance himself on the hooves. Carefully, he walked closer to this “screen”. 

Not only did this weird rectangle provide a nice source of light in this void…but he could look through it. 

However, the only thing that he could see upon looking through…was a butcher shop. 

Something about it felt…horribly off. The lights were off and the windows were thickly covered. The door was even barricaded. Yet he could hear the sound of mumbling and footsteps from somewhere out of sight of this screen.

  Everything about it was…unsettling. 

Like whoever was here was hiding something, and didn’t want anyone to come in and catch them. It felt like he was watching a horror movie of some sorts…Or maybe this shop owner had a…weird way of showing he was closed.

He flinched as he heard a phone ring from another room.

That was a bit odd. Who would be calling at this moment? A potential customer? 

The call seemed to be answered immediately. The boy listened in as whoever was inside of the shop began to speak.

“Hello? Yes, Of course its me. Good afternoon Hameln.” 

..Hameln….for some reason, that name sounded…familiar..?

“Yes of course, the first job has been done. I have just finished dealing with the body. The meat will be sold once both are gone. Nobody will know it is them.”

The boy trembled, wrapping his arms around himself. So this was a MURDER he was witnessing…Someone already died, someone else was next….that was just…disgusting.

But who were these victims that they were referring to?

He heard a click, and watched as a door opened from behind the counter of the shop. A man wearing a blood stained apron slowly walked out, holding a large, oozing plate of fresh, raw meat…

The boy gagged at the sight, covering his mouth. He could almost SMELL that awful iron reeking from the blood of the meat…it looked so grossed and mashed up…Was that the victim?? 

What poor soul suffered at the hand of this monster?

The phone rang again, and the man groaned, walking back into the other room to answer the call. 

The boy just looked around at what he could see from this screen. He was sickened. There was blood everywhere. The man had tracked blood from the room the murder most likely took place..bloody footprints as well as splatters were visible in that doorway….as well as….hair?

He took a closer look. Sure enough, it was hair. A clump of hair. Oddly, it looked….white.. 

Like his hair..and the fluffy wool forming all over his body… 

He tried to see if he could see anything else from the opened door, but the “screen” suddenly shorted out, and static buzzing filled the area, as the visuals on screen became nothing but gray,, white and black pixels…

Then it flashed, the screen was still pixelated, but now there was a three word sentence in the middle of the screen, written brightly in red.

“Do you remember?” 

The boy felt chills down his spine. “Remember..? I..”

No

He didn’t remember anything. Even after all of this, he didn’t have anything memories from any time before this…absolutely nothing.

“I don’t..”

The screen suddenly shut off, as if it responded to his answer. It was completely dark yet again. 

The boy sighed, deciding that it was time to continue his search for a way out of this place.

But the screen flashed on again. Immediately, hoping for answers, he looked right into it…

And he screamed. 

He fell to his knees and broke down sobbing, screaming, pleading to wake up from this horrible nightmare. Begging to be saved from this horrible fate. 

But no one came

Instead, the screen disappeared, and the same unbearable pain from before struck the poor kid. 

It felt like he was going to die…

He tried to hold on and stay strong, he tried to call out for someone, something, anything to help him..but it was too late.

He blacked out. 

#PLEASE LISTEN TO THE TRIGGER WARNINGS #i feel like this could have been better sovs #sobs* #ah well lets see how this goes #amanda the adventurer #amanda the adventurer au #amanda the adventurer wooly #unreality au #not my best work buuuut i spent over a month on this s o

[kingedmundsroyalmurder]

since the idea hasn't left my head in days, please enjoy this not!fic about Cecilia Stirling and Valancy Gay. (Please note that it does include spoilers for the actual book past where the book club has reached!)

Cecilia Stirling Smith was hastily and scandalously married at 17. Her son was born 6 months into the marriage, validating the whispered rumors that flew through Deerwood. He died a year later, leaving his parents shattered. The marriage, although it lasted, is unhappy. Vincent Smith dutifully made an honest woman out of the girl he courted at college, but the love is gone. While their son lived, it seemed as though he might help mend the ties, but his death ruined any chances they had at happiness together. Cissy has been trying to have another child -- her son was the only creature she had ever loved, other than the fleeting first summer with her husband, and she is desperate to feel that again. But her health is gone, and none of the advice or tinctures or doctor's visits that her family showers upon her have done any good.

Vincent Smith is not a bad man at heart, but he is a foolish and impulsive one. His father is wealthy, but Vincent has no head for business and no interested in it either. He would rather spend his time idling. When Cissy was young, this whimsy swept her away, raised as she was in the stifling clutches of the Stirling clan. Now, older, sadder, fully dependent on Vincent Smith for her continued well being, she finds him desperately unsteady.

Valancy Gay is unmarried at 29 and intends to continue that state. She was raised by her widowed father Abel Gay and the Deerwood Presbyterian Church, and although she has been courted, none have progressed far. Valancy believes firmly that she will either find her predestined match or she won't, but she refuses to settle for anything less. In her secret heart she yearns for love and romance, but she has seen what unhappy marriage can do to a woman and she will not compromise herself that way. Valancy fell in love with Barney Snaith the moment she saw him, but he doesn't love her back, although she is his dearest friend, and she is content to adore him in the confines of her heart. She knows he likes her, and that is all the satisfaction she needs.

Although Cecilia Stirling and Valancy Gay went to school together, Cissy was not encouraged to socialize with Valancy. So they knew each other well enough, but never became friends proper. Cissy always thought Valancy very daring, while Valancy remembers how Cissy would smile shyly at her when her relatives weren't watching. Everyone loved pretty, delicate little Cissy Stirling, but Valancy always felt rather sorry for her. After the scandal, Valancy's feelings doubled down.

Their paths cross again when Cissy finds herself finally pregnant with her second child. The dictates from both the Stirlings and the Smiths are immediate and iron clad: Cissy is to rest. She is not to exert herself in any way, and she is not to get overly excited, for fear that it will harm the baby. Cissy chafes at the inaction, although she doesn't dare defy her families. It's Mrs. Smith, Cissy's mother-in-law, who suggests that they find Cissy a maid to help her keep up with the house. She has a household maid already, of course, but a personal maid who can help her dress and fetch her books and attend to her during the night would do her good.

Vincent Smith mentions to his friends at the bar that he's looking for a good, steady girl to keep his wife company. Barney Snaith, also at the same bar, overhears this and mentions it to Valancy next time he's over at the Gays. Valancy thinks back to kind, meek Cissy Stirling from school and feels a twinge of predestination. She has Barney take her to Port Lawrence the very next day to apply for the position.

The Stirlings are utterly scandalized, but Vincent Smith isn't a bad fellow, and he saw how Cissy reacted to seeing Valancy again. Valancy seems steady enough, and no one can find a bad thing to say about her reputation, although many try, and she's willing to start at once. Since Vincent Smith is the one who will be paying Valancy's wages and the one whose house she will be staying in, the Stirlings can't say anything. Dr. Marsh, once he sees how Cissy enjoys Valancy's company, also steps in and advises the Stirlings in the strongest terms not to kick up a fuss, for the sake of Cissy's baby.

Cissy thrives with Valancy's companionship. Valancy is there to help her, yes, but she also rapidly becomes Cissy's friend and confidant. It's a difficult pregnancy, but with Valancy's companionship Cissy begins to feel that she really can survive this. Barney comes to fetch Valancy twice a week to have dinner with her father, and he also gets to know Cissy, to the horror of her family. Even Vincent Smith is dubious about this, but Barney is never anything other than a perfect gentleman to Cissy. The housemaid is always around to chaperone, and anyway it's plain to anyone with eyes (except for Valancy and Barney himself) that Barney Snaith is utterly devoted to Valancy Gay. Even Olive notices it, when she happens to be over one afternoon when Barney comes to fetch Valancy.

If Vincent Smith is dubious of Barney, he is delighted in Valancy, who seems to him everything that Cissy isn't. She's strong and bold, neat and decorous but not afraid to speak her mind. Never has he more strongly wished that he'd listened to his father and not gotten himself involved with Cecilia Stirling.

The baby is born to great fanfare in September. Cissy's labor is long, but not difficult, and both mother and child come out of it alive and well, although Cissy is quite weak. They name the girl Jane. Cissy tells her family that she's always loved the name, but she confides in Valancy privately that it's in Valancy's honor. Valancy, who has never cared for her middle name, is touched and declares that the baby is welcome to full use of it.

Valancy isn't a wetnurse, and now that the baby is born the Stirlings start again making noise about replacing her with someone more suitable. Yes, she undeniably helped Cissy during her pregnancy, but little Jane is going to need good, solid role models and someone like that definitely won't suit. After all, Valancy Gay is nearly 30 and still unmarried, going tearing through the town twice a week with that horrid Snaith man, and entirely unashamed of any of it. Valancy assures Cissy that she'll stay as long as Cissy will have her around.

When baby Jane is two months old Vincent Smith tries to kiss Valancy. Valancy tenders her resignation the next morning.

She agonizes all night about what to tell Cissy. In the end, John Foster speaks to her about courage and truth and she tells Cissy everything. Cissy is crushed, but she understands why Valancy has to leave as a result. Valancy promises to visit often -- during the day when Vincent isn't home -- and to write even more often than that.

Valancy goes back to her father's house, somewhat at loose ends. She could continue as a nurse or a companion -- the Smiths would give her a good reference, even if the Stirlings won't -- but she doesn't want to spend her life waiting on others. She liked caring for Cissy because she liked Cissy, and she's under no illusions that other positions would be as personally fulfilling.

It takes Barney nearly two full weeks to work up the courage to ask if she'll come keep house for him that winter. Valancy initially scoffs -- Barney Snaith, who fusses every time she makes him take the mud off his boots before he walks into Abel Gay's newly mopped kitchen, couldn't possibly want someone to keep his house. But he talks her 'round and says he'll match whatever Vincent Smith was paying her -- Valancy and Barney agreed long ago not to talk about where he got his money -- and Valancy doesn't really want to spend the long Muskoka winter at her father's house. He has a woman to cook for him anyway, a distant cousin that Valancy's never really liked. So Valancy moves to Barney's island for the winter.

It's delightful. Valancy cooks and keeps the house, yes, but mostly they just enjoy each other's company. Barney declares at one point that her presence alone is worth the money he's paying her, never mind her cooking. Valancy holds the compliment in her heart for a long time. When she writes to Cissy about it, Cissy reads the letter out loud to baby Jane and wonders aloud how two people as perceptive as Valancy and Barney can be so oblivious to what's happening under their own noses.

Spring thaws out the frozen countryside, and with it comes Barney's father. Barney had been taking money out of his account to pay Valancy's wages, and Dr. Redfern had finally tracked him down. He arrives on a day when Barney is out -- Barney's been going out on his own quite a bit lately, and Valancy worries that he's getting tired of her. Dr. Redfern introduces himself and tells Valancy the full story, including the lost love, and Valancy understands. She understands why Barney had never seemed interested in her, why he always shied away from the subject of love and marriage. She writes him a letter and leaves for the mainland that evening.

She goes first to her father's house, and tells him that she's going to Montreal, to find work and make a life. He's sad to see her go, but he's in a fatalistic, predestination stage of drunkenness and doesn't try to keep her. She promises to write.

With some of her last month's salary, she buys a train ticket to Port Lawrence. She can't leave without saying goodbye to Cissy, who is her dearest friend and like a sister to her. For Cissy, she will endure an evening of Vincent Smith.

Cissy convinces her to stay the night. While Valancy is playing with Jane, Cissy, in a rare show of determination, demands that her husband find Barney Snaith and tell him that Valancy is staying with them, and that he must talk with her as soon as possible. She knows the two of them, and knows that without some intervention of the non Divine kind, they will drift apart from each other forever and both be miserable thinking they've set the other free.

Barney arrives at the Smith house the next morning, not having slept a wink all night but freshly washed and shaved and wearing clean clothes. The housemaid lets him in with a poorly concealed laugh -- she watched him and Valancy for nearly a year same as Cissy did -- and takes him to Valancy's room.

Barney confesses everything to Valancy. Not that he loves her, not quite yet, but about his childhood and his adolescence and the girl who got away. He compares it to Cissy and Vincent Smith, and how unhappy they have become with each other. Slowly, Valancy relaxes, but she's not ready to come back yet. She realized, in her own sleepless night, that she can't keep living in hope that God will do everything on His own. If she is going to meet her predestined love, she needs to go out and find him. It's then, when he realizes that she's still serious about leaving without him, that Barney blurts out that he loves her. He hadn't known, hadn't realized until he came home and found her gone, but he's loved her for years.

Valancy is very still. Her world is spinning before her, all the certainties save one crashing down. Without thinking further, she asks him to marry her.

Barney hesitates, Valancy pulls back, and just as the housemaid thinks that it's ruined after all, Barney breaks into laughter and kisses Valancy, saying he's always liked a girl who went after what she wanted. After the kiss, he says he might as well tell her everything, and Valancy figures that this is where he admits to the terrible crime that they'd joked about his having committed for years. Instead, he admits to being John Foster, and it says something about the emotions of the day that this is the least important of the revelations.

Barney and Valancy marry in a small ceremony at the Presbyterian church that Cissy, in a second bout of determination in as many days, insists on attending. After the ceremony, Barney pulls Vincent aside and, married man to married man, tells him that he really needs to get his act together. He's never going to be the husband that Cissy longs for, but he can be a husband she grows to like again, and he owes it to her and to their child to be that person. If he really can't do that, he needs to once again step up, like he did when they married, and get a divorce, instead of keeping her chained to him while he makes eyes at the maids.

Valancy steadfastly refuses to be a society hostess, and Barney promises her she won't have to be. They plan to travel for their honeymoon and then settle in Montreal, out of the city but near enough that they can visit his father regularly. Cissy and Valancy keep up a correspondence, and when Valancy and Barney return to Montreal, Cissy and Vincent and Jane visit regularly. Over the course of these visits, Vincent takes an interest in Dr. Redfern's work. Since it's clear that Barney is never going to consent to take over the business, Dr. Redfern takes Vincent on as a potential successor. Things between Vincent and Cissy aren't perfect, but they are better -- Vincent is trying to take Barney's words to heart, and Cissy is learning to assert herself when she needs to. Amelia Stirling is just thrilled to bits that her daughter is Mrs. Redfern's intimate friend, and that her son-in-law is poised to take over the business when Dr. Redfern retires. Olive is positively sick over the entire affair. Valancy thinks it's the funniest thing she's ever seen.

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