Stevie 2.0

Writer, Sweetheart,& in my 30’s

[sweet-villain]

Hi There! Welcome To My Blog!

✩ She, Ukrainian, Sweetheart ♥

Dacre Montgomery ~ Billy Hargrove ~Joe Keery~ Steve Harrington ~Joe Quinn ~Eddie Munson

♡ I'll write fluff, angst & smut ♡

[sweet-villain]

Cause I Believe~9 Older Eddie Munson

Part 8

Summary: You and Eddie finally say it. But it's not what you think of the events after that comes.

" Hi" you spoke out first. He walked around the counter to face you, not far from you and not too close.

" Hi" in your hands, you hold the camera he gifted you. It was expensive. He eyes it in your hands. 

"Nice camera," Eddie said, crossing his arms. A smirk crept onto his lips, but his eyes narrowed slightly, searching yours for something he couldn't quite place.

“ Yeah, listen Eddie.. I can't accept this" 

He chuckled, the sound low and melodic, filling the small music shop with warmth. 

“Why not? I thought you liked it.”

“I do, but…” You fidgeted with the strap, feeling its weight against your palm. “ It's expensive and you could of used it for rent..." 

He rolled his eyes, dismissing your concern with a wave of his hand. “Rent? Please, I’m not living in a castle, just a flat. This? It’s a tool, not a burden. I want to see you thrive, use it. You have a dream. Here is your start" he motions to the camera. 

Your heart swelled at his words, but the weight of the camera felt heavier. 

" I can't take this, Eddie" 

He stepped closer, eyebrows raised, challenging you with his gaze. “Why do you keep saying that? Is it the money? Or is it just me?” 

A knot twisted in your stomach. “It’s you, Eddie. And I—" He shook his head. " Is this about last night?" 

You looked away, focusing on a poster of an old rock band taped to the wall. The faded colors reminded you of how you felt—like pieces of a story half-told. 

“Last night was… complicated,” you murmured, feeling defeated. 

" You think I'm going to stay here and play daddy to when you have my kids? Is that what you want to hear?" He asks. 

His words hit you like a drumbeat—a rhythm too fast to follow. 

"No!" The word burst from your lips, sharp and urgent. You clenched the camera, grounding yourself. “I want you. Just you. Not some... -" 

" We don't live in fantasy world, sweetheart. This isn't your world to play with."

His tone hardened. You flinched at the sting in his words, both a defense and an apology. 

" Eddie I'm sorry about last night, it was too much and I had no right to spring it all in one conversation.." 

He shoved his hands into the pockets of his worn jeans, the fabric stretching taut across his thighs. “You didn’t spring anything on me. You threw it like a grenade. And I—" He paused. 

" Eddie, I think I've fallen for you and it's too late" 

The words hung in the air, thick and electric. Eddie's expression shifted, a flicker of surprise crossing his features.

“Fallen for me?” He scoffed, " Really?" 

You step closer to him. 

" Look, kid. I have customers I need to attend to" he sighs. 

“Please, just hold on a minute,” you urged, urgency lacing your voice. The door chimed as a couple walked in, oblivious to the tension simmering between you.

Eddie glanced back at the newcomers, then shot you a look. 

" Hold on" he sighs as he greets the couple, his face changing into happiness as he talks to them. You walk up to the counter seeing the different pins he has, the different guitars on the walls, the posters and pictures with Dustin, Steve and a few others. You take notice of his opened notebook and scribbles on it. 

Suddenly the notebook closes and he's standing right next to you. 

" Not for your eyes" he says. 

" Hiding secret song lyrics?" 

Eddie leaned against the counter, a playful smirk flickering across his face. “You could call them that. Or, you know, just very personal thoughts that the world doesn’t need to read.” 

You reach over brushing a stand of grey hair from his eyes as he looks to the side to throw the notebook by his bag. 

He flinched at your touch, a quick inhale catching in his throat. His gaze met yours, suddenly serious, a storm brewing beneath the surface. 

“Hey, don’t do that,” he murmured, stepping back, creating space between you two. " Why? It was in your face and I was just helping" 

Eddie pushed a hand through his hair, frustration flickering in his eyes. “I don’t need your help with anything concerning my looks—or whatever else you think you can fix.”

" Why are you brushing me away all of sudden?" 

He snorts. 

" You know it's funny, you gave me your uncle number last night. The producer telling me your done with me, here you are back at it again. But here is the news. I called him this morning and he's coming in a couple of days to listen and who knows what might happen. " 

His words struck you, sharp and angry.

“Eddie, you don’t mean that,” you whispered, panic rising in your throat. 

He met your gaze, hot anger cooling into something more guarded. “I do mean it. I have a life outside of this, a chance to break out.” 

" But what about my feelings for you?" 

Eddie's expression hardened, his brows knitting together in frustration. “Feelings? This isn’t some love story where we ride off into the sunset, you know?”His jaw tightened, the rhythm of your words clashing against the silence that followed. 

“Why not? You like me, what about all those times we bantered? Flirted? You told me you liked me, all the laughs we had.." 

Eddie leaned back against the counter, arms still crossed. He glanced at the floor, as if searching for a crack to bury his thoughts. “Those were moments. Just… moments, you know? It doesn’t mean it’s real.” 

“You don’t think it’s real?” Your voice trembled, a mix of disbelief and hurt. 

“Look, I—” He rubbed the back of his neck, a nervous habit that revealed his unease. “I’m not saying there is nothing between us. But I-" 

You were boiling with anger. 

“—but you don’t want to commit,” you snapped, cutting him off. Your heart raced with every syllable, the words pouring out like a dam breaking.

" You know what, I don't need your camera. I don't need your shittiness in my life and I don't need you " you set the camera on the counter. 

Eddie’s breath caught at the thud of the camera against polished wood. 

“Is that really how you feel?” he shot back, eyes sparking with a mix of disbelief and anger. “Or is this just another dramatic moment for you over and over?" 

" I told you I have fallen for you and you laugh in my face" 

A shadow crossed Eddie’s face, his mouth tightening into a thin line as he processed your words. 

“Falling for me isn’t an act,” he muttered, the weight of disappointment lacing his voice. “You think this is easy, you think I don't feel the same way? You think I want to be angry at you?" 

A silence fell between you, thick and heavy. You stared at him, your heart beating a frantic rhythm against your ribs. 

“Then what is this, Eddie?” Your voice trembled slightly, caught between frustration and pleading. “What are we?" 

" Nothing" he answers. 

“Nothing?” The word felt like a punch to the gut. You took a step back, a chill spreading through you.

“Don’t act surprised,” he shot back, a hardness creeping into his tone. “ We run in circles and circles, and it's getting tiring. Giving me a headache." 

" Be honest how you feel about me right now" 

Eddie hesitated, the moment stretching painfully between you. His jaw clenched, muscles twitching as he wrestled with his thoughts. 

“Right now? I feel… frustrated,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “ I'm trying, but I am going to stop because there is a chance for me out there, finally." 

His voice dropped, heavy with resignation. Each word felt like a slap, a reminder that the world didn’t revolve around your wishes. 

“Eddie…” you whispered, the chill of reality settling over you like a winter gust. " I wish you the best" you add, tears run down your cheeks. 

Eddie’s gaze softened for a heartbeat, the edges of his frustration blurring into something raw and uncertain. He opened his mouth, then closed it again, as if the right words tangled in his throat.

“Don’t do that,” he finally, stepping foward but you stepped back. 

" I hope you get what you want" you tell him, your jaw wobbling. 

Eddie’s hands fell to his sides, the fight draining from his posture. “You don’t mean that.”

“I do,” you insisted, a tremor creeping into your voice. “I can’t keep pretending this—whatever this is—will happen. I hope you get your chance at the dream that's waiting for you. I hope you find what makes you finally happy." 

Eddie stared at you, disbelief etched across his face. “And what about you? You think this is just a passing moment for me?” 

" I'm going to do what's best for me" you answer him. 

His brows knitted together, confusion mixing with hurt. “And what's that?" 

" Keep getting back up after getting hurt yet again... this time by a man I thought feeled the same way I did. I was on the edge of those words to tell you but I guess it's not worth it anymore. " 

Eddie's expression shattered. “ What words?"

“It doesn’t matter anymore,” you said, your voice dropping to a whisper. “I wanted to say something that would make you understand how much you mean to me, how hard I’ve tried…” 

Tears kept falling down your cheeks. 

" Maybe all I am to you is a kid.." 

Eddie’s eyes widened, a flash of regret sharpening his features. “You’re not just a kid to me.” His voice softened, but the tension still lingered, wrapping around both of you like a tight cocoon. 

" I..I..wish you the best" you repeat. 

Eddie’s fingers grazed the counter, his lips pressed together as if weighing something heavy on his heart. “You don’t really mean that,” he murmured, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice. “Not like this.”

You took a deep breathe, " I do. Hope you travel the world like you wanted, make your music...." you sniffled. 

“Why are you doing this?” His voice dropped.

" Because I can't be around you anymore, it hurts too much." 

Eddie's shoulders sank, the vibrant spark in his eyes dimming. He gaped at you, as if the words had physically struck him. 

" What if I want to see you?" 

" Don't" you shook your head. 

“Why?” His voice cracked slightly, deepening the silence that fell around you. “I don’t understand. One minute, you’re here. And the next, you want to disappear?” 

“ Falling for you and this has caused my heart to break, I can't bear to see you leave. I have to let you go now." 

Eddie's mouth opened and closed, the words caught in a no-man’s land between shock and denial. He stepped forward, desperation igniting in his eyes.

“Wait—” he began, but you cut him off, raising your palms as if to ward off the oncoming tide of his emotions.

“I can’t, Eddie. It’s wrong to drag this out.”

He stepped closer that he was inches away from you. 

“Just… don’t go,” he pleaded, his voice a low tremor that shook the breath from your chest. His eyes searched yours, as if trying to anchor himself to the reality.

" Tell me those words. I want to hear them" he says. 

You felt the ground shift beneath you. His desperate plea hung in the air, heavy with the weight of unsaid words.

" Eddie I..." 

Your heart raced as you stared into his eyes, each flicker of emotion sending a shiver through you. He waited, breath caught in his throat, skin taut with anticipation. 

You could not get the words out. 

" Tell me" he whispered, cupping your face. 

“Eddie…” you started, but the words tangled in a web in your mouth.

Eddie leaned in closer, his breath warm against your skin. “Please,” he urged, his voice low, almost pleading. “Just say it. You want me to know. I need to hear it.”

His nose brushed against yours. 

A jolt of electricity surged between you, the air thickening with unspoken tension. You held your breath, caught in the moment of vulnerability where everything hung by the thinnest thread.

“I…” The word felt too small. " I...I.." 

“Just say it.” Eddie’s eyes bore into yours, alive with a desperation that mirrored your own. 

" You won't say it back" 

He hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face. “Don’t do that. You’re assuming I won’t.” 

You could sense the fear swimming just beneath his bravado. “You know how you feel, don’t pretend.”

" Eddie" he nodded as he's listening to you. 

“Do you even know what you're asking me?” Your heart raced, words tumbling from your lips like marbles on a smooth surface. “Because I’m not sure I have the strength or heart to say." 

He does the unthinkable at the moment and kisses you as if to give you the strength. 

Heat surged through you, igniting every nerve ending as his lips pressed against yours. The world around you faded, leaving only the both of you.

You stiffened at first, uncertainty flickers but your kissing him back because you feel so strong for him. The words are right there. 

Eddie pulled you closer, arms around your waist as he pulls away but his lips brushes agaisnt yours. 

“Eddie…” you murmured, your voice low.

“Please, just tell me,” he whispered, eyes searching yours for clarity, for honesty, for everything you both stood on the brink of.

“Eddie…” you whispered again, your mind racing as you struggled to form the words.

“Don’t leave me hanging,” he urged, his breath warm against your cheek. 

" Why do you need to hear it?" 

Eddie dropped his forehead against yours, his gaze unwavering, filled with an intensity that made your heart race. 

“Because I need to know,” he breathed, hands moving to cradle your face, thumb brushing over your cheekbone. “I can't let you go just like this." 

" I..I lo-no I can't" 

“Why not?” Eddie pressed, his brows furrowing, frustration and hurt mixing in his eyes. “Why can’t you just say it?”

" Because I have to let you go, your going to leave and travel the world... and just.. " 

“And just what?” Eddie's gaze burned into yours, the desperation etched in his features.

“Just… I can’t pretend it won’t hurt, watching you leave" 

" I don't know if I am actually going to be signed " he says. 

" You will" you nod.

His face tightened, a mixture of hope and doubt clashing in his gaze. “Even if I go? You really think I’ll make it?” 

“Why wouldn’t you?” 

He shrugs. 

" I really do hope you do, this makes you the happiest" you nod looking down at your shoes. 

Eddie’s gaze softened, his frustration crumbling into something more vulnerable. “But what about you? What about what makes you happy?”

You looked up, startled. “ You won't believe me if I told you." 

“I might surprise you.” His voice was steady, inviting. He stepped closer again, creating a pocket of warmth around you. 

" It's you" 

Eddie inhaled sharply, his expression changing from surprise to something deeper. “What do you mean?” 

" You make me happy Eddie, your laugh, your teasing. The way you kiss me. The way you look at me. The way your presence feels like home.." 

“Why didn’t you say this earlier?” He searches your eyes. 

" It's too late now" 

Eddie’s gaze darkened, frustration flickering back into his expression. He stepped back, distancing himself for just a moment. “Too late? I didn’t realize we were on a countdown here.”

“You want to chase your dream,” you said, " I'm doing what would be best for Eddie Munson." 

Eddie’s jaw clenched, his frustration bubbling back to the surface. “This isn’t just about me. You can’t just pretend your feelings don’t mean anything.” 

“They don't" you stepped back. 

“Why don’t they?” Eddie pressed, his voice low and edged with urgency. He reached out, fingers brushing against your elbow, as if trying to pull you back into the moment, the raw heat between you lingering like smoke in the air.

" Because it's going to hurt more when you actually leave" 

" So that's it?" Eddie huffs. You took another step back.

“Yeah, it is,” you shot back, your voice trembling but firm. 

You took another step back.

He took another foward. 

" Why are you backing away?" 

" Because each step I take, I want to remember how beautiful, how you look before I leave my heart with you." 

" Again with this" he threw his hands up.

You took another step back.

Eddie notices your almost at the door. 

“Stop!” He raised his voice, the urgency slicing through the air between you. 

You hesitated, hand gripping the handle. 

“ I'll miss you.." “Don’t,” Eddie pleaded, his voice thick with emotion. “Don’t say that. You’re not allowed to walk away like this.”

You turned back to face him, heart pounding against your ribcage, every breath a mixture of longing and something else. 

"I'm sorry but it will be easier day by day" 

Eddie hurries to the door. 

“Don’t you dare open that,” he urged, fingers brushing over the shelves. " Don't walk out that door." 

The door creaks open just a bit. 

" Let me walk away" 

Eddie's hand shot out, gripping the door frame, his body hovering dangerously close to you. 

"Please," he said, urgency laced in his voice. “Just don’t walk out. Not like this.” 

You met his gaze, his brown eyes close to tears. 

A lump formed in your throat. This man, with his wild hair and worn leather jacket, felt like a tempest wrapped in vulnerability. Every moment with him had pulled you closer and closer to something magnificent yet terrifying. 

“Eddie…” you breathed, looking up at him. 

“Just say it,” he implored, moving a half-step closer, the palpable desperation radiating from him. “Whatever it is, just let it out.”

" I don't want this to end between us, but I need to. If I ever see you again, in the future. I hope it's when your the happiest." 

He tugs your shirt causing you to stumble into him. 

You crashed against his chest, and the sharp inhale from Eddie burned into your skin, sending your pulse into overdrive. He felt solid, a steadfast force in a world that felt too chaotic. 

"Don’t say this like it’s the end" He says looking down at you. 

" I'm not going to make you choose between something you want and someone like me. I want you to make music, I want you to be happy. I know you'll make it." 

Eddie's grip tightened, fingers brushing against the fabric of your shirt, anchoring you to the moment. "And you think I can be happy without you?" His voice trembled.

" Yes, through music. It's your first love" 

Eddie's eyes searched yours, a flicker of pain crossing his features. “Music doesn’t hold my heart like you do,” he said, his voice steady but thick with emotion. “You don’t see how hard this is for me.”

" What are you saying?" 

" I have strong feelings for you" 

" Explain" 

He searches your eyes but you nod because he can't tell you and your head turns to open the door. 

" Wait" Eddie says. 

" If you can't say it, then let me go" 

Eddie’s grip tightened on your shirt, his eyes wide, filled with a mix of desperation and something deeper, something you couldn't quite name. 

“Just… just hold on!” he rushed. “Give me a second.” 

You hesitated, looking at him.

" If you really feel what you feel, Eddie then you would tell me" 

Eddie's gaze flickered, the fire behind his eyes dimming momentarily as he searched for the right words, a storm of conflict swirling within him. 

“Damn it,” he muttered, dragging his hand through his hair, fingers shaking as the rings glistering in light. 

" Right" you nod opening the door, the doorbell rings above it. 

Eddie's hand shot out, gripping the edge of the doorframe. “Wait!” He stepped forward, blocking your exit with a desperate urgency. The tension stretched between you, electric and taut.

He's leaning against the open door as he looks at you. 

" If your not going to say it, I will. But after this, I'm going" you swllowed the lump in your throat. 

Eddie’s eyes locked onto yours, a storm brewing within them.

“Fine,” he said, voice low and fierce. “I’ll say it.” The words trembled in the air, pulling the weight of everything between you both.

“Then say it,” you urged, heart hammering against your ribs. 

Eddie inhaled deeply, gathering his thoughts like a storm cloud. “I—you’re infuriating, you know that?” His voice trembled, edged with frustration. 

" Eddie Munson you're so annoying, just say it or I will!" 

“Fine!” His voice echoed through the shop, raw and powerful. “I love you, alright? There. I said it.” 

" Eddie, I love you too... but I'm still goint to let you be happy to chase your dreams. That's all you wanted and I'm not going to be in the way of that." 

Eddie stared at you, shock widening his eyes as the weight of your confession settled in the silence. His mouth parted slightly, but no words came out. 

“Eddie, say something,” you urged, your heart pounding furiously in your chest. 

He blinked, confusion and hope swirling together like a tempest in his shimmering brown eyes. “I… I didn’t expect that,” Eddie stammered, his voice barely above a whisper.

" Well, take care of yourself" you slip past him heading to Steve's car. 

Eddie's voice cracked behind you, a whisper of desperation shattering the air. “Wait!” 

You paused but didn’t turn around. The ache in your chest felt raw, an open wound refusing to heal. 

“ Stop" you can hear he's crying now. " Please" 

You hesitated, heart breaking at the sound of his shuddering breath behind you. You squeeze Steve's keys in your hands, closing your eyes. 

He calls out to you. 

“Please,” Eddie's voice cracked, raw and vulnerable, echoing through the tense atmosphere. 

You took a step foward but felt like the weight dragging you down as the step was much slower. 

Every part of you screamed to turn around, to bridge the distance between your hearts. 

He's full blown crying behind you. 

“Please,” he whispered again. 

You took another step. 

"Please," he called again, the word wrapping around you like a chain. He's gripping the door now feeling his knees about to give out. 

You paused again, your heart caught in the web of his desperation. 

Eddie hadn’t moved, but he's almost to his knees. 

You took another step. 

"Don't go," his voice was a whisper, raw and trembling.

" I love you, Eddie" you tell him one more time. 

Eddie's breath hitched, the words slamming into him with the weight of a freight train. Each syllable wrapped around his heart, squeezing tight. 

" You'll do amazing things" you continued. 

Eddie’s breath caught, a sharp inhale that sliced through the heavy silence. He raised his head slightly, his face glistening with unshed tears and raw emotion. “And you think I can do that without you?” His voice trembled. 

" Yes, you're strong and you have talent from what everyone tells me and I am not going to let it pass. You want out of Hawkins, you'll get it. My dreams was to always find a beautiful man to love, and I got it. But I'm happy to have my heart be broken by you" 

How can you say that?” His voice wobbled, the emotional weight skewing his composure.

“Because I got a chance to see what's like to fall in love for the first time, thank you" you turned to look at him over your shoulder. 

"You can’t just thank me for this pain. It shouldn’t hurt this much!” His voice cracked, the raw vulnerability in his words. 

" Pain makes it real. What we had was real" you sniffled as you turned making your way to Steve's car. 

Eddie screams grew louder as you walked away, he's crying as he's screaming your name. 

The sound pierced through the air, laced with anguish. Each cry felt like a dagger in your heart.

“Please!” Eddie’s voice was raw. You unlocked Steve's car, your heart clenching. 

The sound of Eddie's plea echoed in your ears as you slid into the driver's seat, fumbling the keys in trembling hands. 

“Don’t leave!” he shouted again, desperation coloring his tone. 

You clenched your fists against the steering, but the door swung wide, and Eddie’s silhouette filled the frame, a tempest of raw emotion. 

“Wait!” 

" Eddie close the door" 

" No" 

" What about the music store.." 

Eddie hesitated, his breath coming in sharp gasps, eyes glistening with tears. “I don’t care about the damn store!” 

“Stop yelling—just let me leave,” you insisted, pressing your fingers to your temples. 

" No, I fucking won't" Suddenly his name is being called, and it was like a distaction you needed to close the door. 

“Eddie!” Garett called out, his casual tone cutting through the tension like a knife. “You coming to the rehearsal later? We need your guitar—”

“Not now!” Eddie barked, voice fierce, his eyes flaring with anger but then he heard it. The car door slam shut. 

“Eddie!” Garett’s voice broke through the chaos, snapping Eddie's focus. The sharpness of his tone cut through the air, mingling with the tension thickening between you and Eddie. 

“Not now!” Eddie repeated, but his eyes widen hearing you start the car. 

“Just... just stop!” Eddie yelled, voice cracking like thunder itself. He slammed his hand against the roof of Steve's car. " Move, Eddie! Steve will kill me if you damage his car!"

“Then let me in!” Eddie shouted, his voice tinged with desperation, fingers gripping the doorframe like a lifeline. 

"Just let me leave," you insisted, fighting back tears as you revved the engine.

“Not without me,” Eddie gritted through clenched teeth, determination hardening his resolve. 

"Let me go," you begged, desperation creeping into your voice as you tightened your grip on the steering wheel. 

Eddie’s eyes blazed with a mix of panic and anger, his fists clenched at his sides. “I won’t" 

“Eddie, please!” Desperation dripped from your voice as you pressed the gas pedal slightly. The engine growled, ready to surge forward. 

“Stop!” Eddie shouted, panic twisting his features. He stepped onto the pavement, a determined glint in his eyes. "You’re not driving off without me."

“ Eddie your going to get famous, forget me and never come back to Hawkins ever again. I know this.."

Eddie's face twisted with hurt, each word piercing deeper than the last. “Don’t say that,” he shot back, his voice thick with emotion. “You think I’ll just vanish because of some record deal?” 

" I am not going to stand in the way of your dreams Eddie" 

“Then why can’t you see that you’re part of those dreams?” Eddie pushed, desperation lacing every word. “I can’t just unlock my heart if you’re not in it.”

" You already did, you were my dream Eddie" 

Eddie's eyes widened, the vulnerability spilling into the space between you. “I was?” The question hung in the air, disbelief wrestling with hope.

“Don’t you get it?” 

" I thought of the world of you when I first saw you. When you came into my apartment, is was at that moment I knew that I wanted you." 

Eddie’s breath caught, something shifting in his gaze as his story unfolded before him. “And you never said anything? Not once?” he pressed, firing questions like arrows. 

“Neither did you,” you shot back, frustration rising again. " I have to go" 

Eddie squared his shoulders, feeling the heat of your gaze seep into him. “So you expect me to just stand here, watch you drive away, knowing I failed to say what mattered? That I let you slip out of my grasp?” 

" You didn't fail, you had me but I made the choice for you. Your dream over me" 

Eddie’s eyes hardened for a moment, then softened, as if the weight of your words settled heavily on his shoulders. “You think I just want to chase after some fleeting fame?” 

“It's what you always wanted" you rolled up the window and back up. 

Eddie stepped back, his mouth tightening into a thin line as the car shifted into reverse. The reality of the moment crashed around you, a painful reminder of everything you were letting go. 

His legs pick up as he chases Steve's car your driving in. 

Eddie sprinted after you, his boots thudding against the ground, a desperate rhythm echoing in the stillness of the street. 

“Stop!” His voice carried over the roar of the engine, raw with urgency. He calls your name but the car speeds up. 

You glanced in the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of Eddie, a dark silhouette framed against the fading light of the day. He stumbled slightly as he turned to shout your name again, a desperate plea swallowed by the engine's roar.

" Fuck " he mumbles sprinted back to the store, the heavy thud of his heart matching the pounding of his boots against the pavement. A heat flooded his cheeks, a mix of frustration and desperation swirling within him. He flung open the door, the chime of the bell ringing above him.

The music shop, once filled with the scent of polished wood and fading rock posters, felt empty now, a graveyard of unspoken words and shattered hopes.

He grabs his things and locks the shop, that he's closed for the day running to his car. 

The engine roared to life as he threw himself into the driver’s seat, the familiar scent of leather and lingering notes of burnt incense wrapping around him like a shroud. Heart racing, he gripped the steering wheel, knuckles white with tension as he races to his apartment. 

You return back home and once you open the door, you collaps in Robin's arms. 

“What happened?” Her voice low as whisper. Steve turns to see you and Dustin puts down your records. 

" He told me he loved me" you whisperd, " I did the same but I know he's going to leave, to play his music around the world. Be famous and I can't... it's too much.. hurtful to watch him leave." 

Tears roll down your cheeks. 

Robin’s grip tightened around you, her brow furrowed with concern. 

“Hey, hey, breathe,” Robin soothed, her voice steady in the rising as she runs her fingers through your hair. You hold onto her sweater for dear life. Steve sits down besides you rubbing your back.

“Shh, it’s okay. Just breathe,” Robin whispered, her voice a calm anchor in the storm within you. 

You took in shaky breaths, the weight of the evening crashing over you like a wave. 

“Why does it hurt to love him?"

“Because sometimes love feels like a war,” Robin murmured, her fingers gently brushing your hair back. “You’re vulnerable, exposed. It doesn’t always come with a promise of comfort or joy.” 

Steve leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing his face. 

" Your going to be one of his songs for sure" Steve tried to lighten to mood. 

Robin shot him a glare, her hands still soothing your hair. "Not the time, Steve."

You let out a shuddering breath, the weight of the evening hanging heavy in the air. “He was going to leave, just like that and I'm not going watch him walk away. No matter how much I love him." 

The weight of your words settled in the room, heavy and thick, wrapping around you like a shroud. Robin exchanged a glance with Steve, her eyes flickering with understanding. 

There is a knock on the door of your apartment, it's not just soft knocking. 

“Who would be at the door?” Robin whispered, keeping her voice barely above a hush.

" I'll see" Dustin says as he walk to open it. 

Dustin swung the door open, revealing Eddie, breathless and wild-eyed. His hair flared like a chaotic halo. His grey strands standing out.

He panted as he pushed past Dustin. 

“Where is she?” he breathed, his voice thick with urgency, eyes scanning the room wildly.

" What are you doing here, Eddie?" you asked crawling off the floor. 

" I told you not to leave" he shakes his head. 

Eddie’s chest heaved, each breath a ragged reminder of the chase. His eyes locked onto yours, pleading and wide. “I drove like a maniac just to find you.” 

" You could of gotten a ticket" 

Eddie ignored your words, his gaze burning with intensity. “This isn’t about that. It’s about you and me.” 

“Eddie…” you started. 

" No, you don't get to run away after telling me you love me" 

“I had to" you crossed your arms over your chest. " You're going to be someone, making a name for yourself." 

Eddie stepped closer, “What if I don’t want that? What if I want this—want you—more than any fame?”

“You'll travel the world. You'll get any girl you want. You'll have all the fans you want. You'll be happy.." 

“And what if I don’t want anyone else? What if all I want is you? Is that so hard to believe?”

" You said you made the call, my uncle is coming. You'll get signed.." 

“Yeah, I did. But that doesn’t mean it’s what I want,” Eddie replied, frustration lacing his voice. “It’s like you’re the only thing worth chasing right now. All that other stuff... it could wait.”

" It can't, I want to give this chance to you." 

And what about my chance with you? You’re giving up on us before we even have a shot?”

" You're going to be free, you're going to finally breathe and you won't have to worry anymore, Eddie." 

“You keep saying that like it’s true. But what about you? Do you honestly think I can just leave you behind and be happy?”

“Everyone needs a chance to chase their dreams" 

Eddie pressed a hand against his forehead, frustration etching lines into his face. “And you think I’ll be happy without you? Without knowing you’re there?” 

“You’re a bit older but you’re talented. You’ll have everything,” you counter.

“Everything except you,” Eddie shot back, voice cracking under the weight of his emotions. “You think I’d give it all up just to sing on a stage? To be another name in the lights?" 

" Yeah, for one kid. Me" 

“Stop calling yourself a kid,” Eddie snapped, frustration flaring in his voice. “You’re not just some passing phase in my life.”

" I always was a kid to you, Eddie" 

His eyes hardened,“Don’t you dare put those words in my mouth. You were never just a kid to me.”

" I just want you to be happy the way the teenage Eddie Munson wanted" 

“Teenage Eddie Munson is still in here,” he declared, voice straining with desperation. “Fighting to hold onto the people who matter most to him. And right now, that’s you.” 

“Eddie, you don’t get it" 

“Then make me get it,” he urged, stepping closer, his frustration simmering just beneath the surface. “Show me why I should let you go.” 

You stood rooted, heart racing as he closed the gap between you, storm clouds swirling in his dark eyes. 

“Because the world is waiting for you,” you pleaded, voice catching. “You have a chance at something bigger—”

" But-" you shook your head. 

“—what if I don’t want bigger?” Eddie cut in, his voice raw and strained. He drew in a breath, those deep brown eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that made your heart stutter. “What if all I want is to give you the world?"

His words lingered in the air, a promise wrapped in desperation, echoing deep within you. 

"Eddie, you can’t—" 

“I can’t what?” he interrupted. 

“—you can’t make that choice for me,” you whispered, the tremor in your voice palpable. 

Eddie’s brows furrowed. “Why can’t I? You’re standing here ready to throw it all away—”

“ I want you to have what you dreamt of even if I have to step aside and throw my heart out to the ocean to have it be eaten away." 

You really think you’ll just throw your heart away?” 

His voice trembled.

“Yes,” you replied, " for your dreams, for that little boy that wants to be on stage." 

Eddie’s expression twisted, disbelief mingling with anger. “You think you can just sacrifice yourself like that? Like you’re not worth chasing? How can you think so little of yourself?”

“Because I know what it means to dream. I made my dream, well kinda with what we had."

Eddie’s gaze darkened, confusion etched in every line of his face. “What we had? You make it sound like it’s in the past, like it’s nothing now.” 

“Oh my god, you two are a headache!" Steve shouts. " You two love each other and yet your being stupid." 

“Steve, this isn’t your fight,” you snapped, your eyes flashing.

“Maybe not, but your exhausting to watch. Eddie, she wants you to live out your dream putting her love for you aside that you can make the little boy inside you be proud of what your going to be. Y/N, Eddie wants you and he's putting his wants aside, for you. You two are idiot." 

“Thanks, Steve,” Eddie said with a hint of sarcasm, his gaze never leaving yours, a mix of determination and despair swirling in his eyes.

" I'm getting to that point where that life maybe not for me" Eddie says. 

" Lik hell it isn't, I will put you on a tour bus myself if I have to" 

“Then what are you waiting for?” Eddie shot back, frustration surging once more. “You think you can just decide my life for me? Lock me in a cage, throw away the key?” 

“Eddie!” you exclaimed, " I am trying to do best for you!" 

“You call this best?” Eddie shot back.“Pretending like I don't care? Like I’m some puppet you can just cut the strings on?” 

“Stop acting like a child,” you replied. 

" Just kiss her already!" Robin shouts. 

Eddie's gaze darted over to Robin, his expression a mix of surprise and confusion. "What?" He looked back at you, his eyes blazing. “We’re having a serious conversation here!”

"Right, a serious conversation that’s just two little kids bickering back and forth. You two are a headache, if you two don't kiss. I will do it myself for both of you!" she shouts. 

“Wait, what?” Eddie asked. " Are you drunk?"

"Not drunk, just fed up," Robin said, hands on her hips. “You both are standing here, hearts on your sleeves, and yet you’re acting like you’re enemies instead of lovers. Just kiss her already!”

You looked between Eddie and Robin. 

" I've kissed him plenty of time already"

“Then what’s stopping you?” Robin challenged, crossing her arms defiantly. The tension in the room shifted, turning electric, yet still filled with uncertainty.

" We are talking!" Eddie shouts.

“Talking?” Robin echoed, incredulous. “You call this ‘talking’? It sounds more like two dogs barking at each other. Just think about it—do you really want to spend another moment of your life running in circles?”

Eddie sighs, " We have been doing that." 

A knock come to your door again, and your confused on who it is. 

" I didn't invite anyone over" you mumbled looking at your friends and Eddie. "Have you?" 

"Should we see?" Dustin asked, glancing at you as if awaiting your command.

You nodded, heart racing as you walk towards the door. 

" Hello?" you asked through the door. 

" Y/N! It's Uncle Roger!" your face turns as a ghost as you looked at Eddie. 

“Hey, kid! Heard I might get a chance to see you today!” he said, holding his hands out but you slammed the door in his face facing your friends. 

“What the hell was that?” Dustin blurted out. 

" You said he would be a few days, Eddie! He's early!" you snapped. " What the fuck?" 

Eddie’s eyes widened in realization, a fleeting panic crossing his features. “This can’t be good,” he muttered, running a frustrated hand through his hair once more. 

“Why is he here? Did you tell him I was home? The fuck, Eddie!" you glared at him. 

His eyes darted, thoughts racing as he opened his mouth to respond. "I didn’t—”

“Then why is he here?” you pressed, heart racing. Panic constricted around you like a vice. " When he leaves, you better be running Munson" you pointed a finger at him.

Eddie raised his hands defensively, the humor drained from his face. “I swear I didn’t know he’d show up right now. I thought we’d have at least a few days.”

“Great timing, just great,” you whipped around to open the door with a fake smile on your face. " Uncle Roger! What a surprise" you fake throw your hands around him. 

Uncle Roger grinned widely, his eyes sparkling with the kind of excitement that only came with lofty expectations. He embraced you tightly, his cologne mixing with the stale air of the apartment.

“Y/N! My favorite niece!” he exclaimed, walking inside. 

" Uncle Roger this is Steve, Dustin, Robin and Eddie... Eddie you know him. You two spoke on the phone I believe" you shot daggers at Eddie. 

Roger’s gaze flickered between you and Eddie, a knowing grin tugging at his lips. “Ah, so this is the one I’ve heard so much about! Eddie Munson, the aspiring rock star.” The emphasis on “rock star”.

Eddie shook his hand, but coughed. 

" Why are you so early Uncle Roger?" 

Uncle Roger walks around in your apartment looking over. 

" I came here early to explore, and to see what is here to do and figured I'd stop by and heard about this Eddie Munson and his band.." 

Eddie swallowed hard, shoving his hands deep into his pockets as Uncle Roger continued to ramble on with excitement.

“Everybody says you’re a real talent,” Roger said, clapping Eddie on the back. " Uncle Rogers own a big record stuido in LA" you tell the others. " He's very big" you add. 

Eddie's smile felt strained, but he flashed it anyway, his eyes darting toward you. A silent reminder of the unspoken tension lingering between the two of you. 

“I appreciate that,” Eddie said, his voice steady, but the flickering towards you. " Who have you signed?" Dustin asks. 

Uncle Roger waved a hand dismissively, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. “Oh, you know, some popular names—big names in rock. Bands that will be staples for years to come. But what about you, Eddie? I’ve heard you sing, and play the guitar like you sleep on a pillow." 

Eddie’s eyes narrowed slightly, measuring Uncle Roger with a mix of wariness and excitement. "Yeah? I appreciate that, but I mean..." he trailed off, the enthusiasm faltering in the overshadow of reality. 

"Who are inspirations?" Uncle Roger continues to ask. 

“Uh, you know, the usuals,” Eddie replied, his voice steady, but the nervousness seeped through his casual demeanor. “Guitar gods, rock legends… people who took risks and didn’t play it safe.” He looked towards you for help. 

" He performs at the bar, Steve will tell you all about it" you looked towards Steve 

Steve raised both hands, a mock-serious expression on his face. “Oh yeah, he’s practically a local legend. Killer guitar skills and a voice that could make the heavens weep. Seriously, Uncle Roger, you’re in for a treat." 

" I can't wait to hear all about it, son. I'm sure you won't dissapoint" Uncle Roger smiles down at Eddie. Then he turns to you, " Say, Y/N I heard you used to dance.. what happened to that?"

You shifted under the weight of his question, the walls of your apartment closing in like a vise. 

“Um, life happened,” you replied, forcing a smile that felt brittle on your lips. “You know mom passing away..." 

" Ah, your mother was a great one" 

The air thickened as you mentioned your mother, the weight of her absence pressing down like a heavy fog. 

" yeah, well who wants cake!" you shouted breaking the silence brushing past Eddie. 

The tension in the air shifted, your voice slicing through like a knife. You marched into the small kitchen, trying to gather your thoughts while shoving the painful memories aside. Eddie’s gaze lingered on you for a moment before Uncle Roger’s excited chatter as he pulled Eddie back into conversation. 

" Is he the one that suppose to sign Eddie?" Dustin whispered to you. 

You leaned against the kitchen counter, heart racing, trying to process the whirlwind around you. “Yeah,” you whispered back, casting a glance toward Eddie, who now stood side by side with Uncle Roger, his expression a mix of excitement and anxiety.

" It actually going to happen?" Dustin asked. 

"Maybe," you whispered, your pulse quickening with uncertainty. You grabbed a glass of water, trying to find some solace in the chaos but all it did was remind you of the storm raging just beyond the kitchen. 

Dustin leaned in, " What if he does get signed?"

" Then I won't be there to watch him leave" 

“Is that what you really want?” Dustin asked, concern etched across his features. “To always wonder what might have been?” 

“Not wondering,” you murmured, the words tasting bitter on your tongue. “To let him go find whatever his heart desires in the world. He wants out, I will get him out even if I have to convince Uncle Roger." 

Dustin’s brows furrowed, the weight of your words hanging heavy in the air. “But what if it leads him back to you? What if that’s what he needs?”

You shook your head, " His music is his first love and I will never replace that." 

“I’m not saying you’d replace anything,” Dustin pressed, his eyes narrowing with concern. “But what if—”

“Dustin, stop,” you snapped, frustration bubbling to the surface. “This isn’t just some teenage romance. It’s life, and I'm doing this to make him happy." 

" Y/N!" Uncle Roger calls you. " I think Eddie and his band members should put on a show tomorrow night and then I'll see if he's worth signing.. hm?"

Your heart sank at Uncle Roger’s suggestion. The weight of his words pressed down, heavy like an anvil. You forced a smile, trying to mask the whirlpool of anxiety churning in your gut.

“Uh, a show?” you managed out the words. 

" Yes, at the bar" Uncle Roger says. " I don't want to be dissapointed." 

" I have some songs, yeah. Some covers" Eddie says. 

“Covers? You should showcase the originals,” Uncle Roger chimed in, his enthusiasm radiating through the cramped apartment, dominating the air. “Let’s hear what you’ve cooked up, Munson! It’ll be the perfect opportunity.”

" Okay" Eddie nods, " I will tell the others" he says bringing his plate into the kitchen. 

" Well kids, I should get going. It was nice talking to you. Y/N come give me a hug" Uncle Roger says. 

You hesitated, feeling the weight of your smile a mask for all the things left unsaid. “Sure, Uncle Roger,” you replied, forcing yourself to step forward. You wrapped your arms around him, feeling the warmth of his embrace, but his presence made you nervous. 

When he walks out the door, the apartment is silent. 

The silence hung in the air, thick and uncomfortable. You stepped back, heart still racing as if caught in a storm yet to pass. Eddie stood near the kitchen counter, his fingers tapping restlessly against the edge, eyes darting between you and the door. 

" I think I'm going to head to bed, thank you for coming" you avoided eye contact as you headed to your room.

The door clicked shut behind you, sealing off the rush of voices from the living room. The silence in your room felt suffocating, each heartbeat echoing in the stillness, vibrating against the walls. You pressed your back against the door, and pulled your knees to your chest. 

A soft knock broke the silence. Your heart raced; you anticipated Eddie’s voice, or perhaps Robin’s. 

“Y/N?” Eddie’s voice floated through the door, hushed and cautious. 

“Go away,” you replied, your voice cracking. 

" Everyone left, it's just me" he mumbles. 

“Please,” Eddie’s voice came again. 

You kept silent. 

“Y/N, let me in,” Eddie urged, the weight of his words pushing against the door.

" Why?" 

“Because I need to talk to you. I can’t just leave things like this,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

" Your going to get signed, Eddie and leave. There is nothing more to it." 

The weight of your words hung heavy in the air. You pressed your palms against the cool wood of the door, hoping to reinforce the barrier between you and the chaos waiting just outside.

“Y/N, please. Just let me explain,” Eddie insisted. 

" There is nothing to explain" 

“Please, just hear me out,” Eddie urged, his voice thick with urgency. 

" Can I ask you one thing?" 

His silence hung in the air, a breath caught between unspoken words. You could almost feel him leaning against the door, waiting.

“Okay,” he finally replied, tone cautious but open. " Can you kiss me one more time before you leave?" you asked. 

The air shifted around you, heavy with everything left unsaid. Eddie’s breath hitched, his voice barely a whisper. “I… I can do that.”

“Then come in,” you murmured, your heart racing as you turned the lock and opening it letting the light in. 

Eddie stepped through the doorway, his presence filling the room with an electric hum. He paused, his eyes searching yours, a mixture of hope and uncertainty flickering behind that familiar intensity.

“Y/N…” he started, but the words faltered. 

" Don't speak" you muttered. 

Eddie’s lips pressed into a thin line, his breath caught in his throat. His gaze searched yours, wide and earnest, but the turmoil in his eyes spoke volumes. You stepped closer, closing the gap, and looking up at him. 

“Just one more kiss,” you whispered, " the last one." 

Eddie's breath caught, a mix of surprise and longing flickering in his deep brown eyes. He didn’t need to speak. The weight of both your emotions surged in the silence.

His hand slid behind your neck, his fingers brushing your cheek as he leaned down. 

His lips brushed against yours, soft at first, as if testing the waters. But he pressed his lips firmly against yours, making this last kiss feels like it's the first time he's kissed you. 

Eddie’s fingers tangled in your hair, his lips danced against yours. 

Eddie pulled away just slightly, his forehead resting against yours, breath mingling in the space between you. 

“Y/N…” he murmured, voice thick with emotion, “this isn’t fair.” 

" I said no talking" 

Eddie inhaled sharply, the warmth of his breath ghosting over your lips. 

“Just let me be with you, right now,” he whispered, and his hands tightened around you as if he were afraid you'd vanish. 

His closeness brought you warmth. 

Your hand goes to take his hair down from his messy bun.

Eddie's hair tumbled free, cascading around his face like a wild halo. The familiar grip of his curls slid through your fingers. 

" You have more grey hair coming in" you giggled. 

Eddie’s lips curved into a soft smile, the worry lines now smoothed out. "Thanks for the reminder," he teased, but there was a hint of fondness in his tone. "It’s called maturity, you know." 

" Such big words for a grandpa" you teased. 

Eddie's laughter filled the space, warm and genuine, like the sunlight breaking through clouds after a storm. “Touché,” he said, leaning in closer, the laughter fading into the thrum of something deeper. 

Your lips brushed his, a soft peck as a feather brushing his lips. 

Eddie’s eyes sparkled, an electric mix of surprise and desire igniting between you. He leaned in again, this time the kiss was deeper, more needy. 

Eddie’s lips moved against yours as if he were creating a melody, every motion a rhythm that echoed through your veins. He pulled you closer, heat radiating from him, igniting a fire in the pit of your stomach.

Your fingers worked through his hair getting the knots out. 

Eddie pulled away just enough to whisper. 

" I hate that you want this for me" his eyes searched yours. 

“Why?” you whispered, breathless. “You deserve it, Eddie. You’ve worked for it.” 

" I don't want it" 

"Why not? It's everything you've chased," you pressed, confusion knotted in your stomach. 

“ It's the past" he says. 

" It's not, you were meant for this" 

He stepped back slightly, eyes narrowing as if trying to find words to fit the tumult raging inside him. 

“Meant for this?” he echoed, voice heavy with disbelief. “You think those dreams aren’t filled with shadows? Every note I strum isn't just about light.."

You cut him off, " When you play tomorrow night, I won't be there.." 

Eddie's expression shifted, confusion and hurt clouding his features. “What do you mean you won’t be there?” 

" Because he will sign you after and I am not going to want to hear it, I will have to think about you leaving and it hurt." 

Eddie’s eyes widened, disbelief washing over his face. “You can’t be serious.” 

“I am,” you said, crossing your arms over your chest in a futile attempt to shield yourself from the impending heartache. “It’s too much, and I want you happy. But I can't be there." 

Eddie’s eyes darkened, frustration and despair swirling in a tempest of emotion. “And you think avoiding me will help?” 

“Maybe,” you whispered, a tremor in your voice. “Maybe if I’m not there, it’ll give you the push." 

“Push?” Eddie echoed, disbelief shimmering in his eyes. “Y/N, you’re not just some… stepping stone for me to walk on. You’re everything! I can’t just pretend you don’t exist.”

" Tonight is the last time you'll see me" you tell him.

Eddie’s expression spiraled from shock into something more intense, his eyes darkening with confusion and desperation. He stepped forward, closing the distance you had just created, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. 

“Y/N, no…” 

You pressed your hands to his chest. 

" Thank you for everything" 

Eddie’s breath hitched, confusion twisting his features. "What do you mean, thank you? This isn't a goodbye. It can't be!" 

Your heart pounded against your ribs. “But it has to be. You need to embrace what you'll become. You'll do great thing" 

Eddie’s hands trembled as they gripped your elbows, anchoring you to him. “Y/N, don’t you understand?” His voice cracked, pulling at your resolve. “I can't just let it be our last moment. No.." 

“Eddie…” you pleaded, fighting against the tidal wave of emotions crashing over you. “You need to focus on this chance. Tomorrow night, you’ll have the spotlight, a chance to show the world who you are. You can’t let anything distact you. I love you, Eddie Munson. You hear me?" 

Eddie's gaze flickered, a war raging behind those deep brown eyes. The air between you crackled with tension, heavy with every word left unsaid. He clutched your arms, fingers trembling, as if the world could shatter as he pulls you close.

" I love you, Eddie" 

The warmth of his body enveloped you, different from the last kiss. He responded, his breath hitching directly against your lips, the sound a soft gasp laced with desperation. 

“Y/N, don’t,” Eddie murmured, you kiss him not letting him talk. Pouring all your love into one final kiss. 

Eddie’s lips moved against yours, returning the kiss with a need that echoed deep within your chest. 

Your fingers twisted in the soft fabric of his jacket, anchoring yourself to the warmth of him, the reality of this moment. Each kiss deepened. 

" I love you" you whispered against his lips.

Eddie pulled away for a moment, his breath mingling with yours, heavy and warm. His eyes searched yours, filled with a storm of emotions and unspoken words.

“Y/N…” he started, the softness of his voice throttled by the weight of everything you had just laid bare. “You can’t just say that and expect me to let you go.”

“Eddie, just say it back and let me go" 

His gaze darkened further, frustration flickering in the depths of his eyes. “But I don’t want to say it just to let you go. I want to say it because it means something! I love you!” The words tumbled out as he kisses you again.

Eddie wrapped his arms around you tighter, pulling you even closer, as if trying to merge your bodies into one. His kiss deepened, a desperate claim that felt both exhilarating and terrifying. 

You pulled away, " You should go" 

Eddie's eyes widened, disbelief washing over his face. “Go? After everything we just said?” 

“I mean it,” you insisted, stepping back but unable to break the connection of his gaze. “You need to be focused—on the show tomorrow, you'll do amazing. I know it." 

Eddie’s shoulders slumped slightly, the eager fire in his eyes smoldering into uncertainty. “And what about you?” he murmured, urgency replaced by a quiet desperation. “Are you just gonna pretend I don’t exist?”

“ You'll see me around. But I won't look or speak to you" 

Eddie’s mouth fell open, disbelief etching deeper lines into his features. “You can’t mean that. How can you act like I’m just going to—what? Fade into the background? I won’t accept it!” 

The fire in his eyes is bright. 

You sit on your bed, curling up as you close your eyes. 

Eddie’s frustration hung in the air, filling the space with unsaid words. He paced the room, hands weaving through his tangled hair, the light catching flecks of silver glinting in the strands. 

“I won’t accept it,” he repeats. 

Eddie raked his fingers through his hair again, and each stroke seemed to unleash a swell of frustration. 

" Have a good show tomorrow" you turn your back to him, " shut the door on your way out" you add. 

Eddie's breath caught in his throat, the weight of your words anchoring him in place. 

“Y/N…” His voice cracked, wavering between desperation and disbelief. “You can’t just toss me away like this.”

You kept your mout shut as you faced the wall. 

“Y/N!” he called out, the urgency in his voice slicing through the quiet of the room. 

Silence. 

His footsteps echoed as he moved closer, turning you around to face him. 

" Stop being a brat" 

Eddie's eyes bore into yours, intensity radiating off him like heat from a flame. 

“Stop it,” he repeated, voice low and fierce. 

" You're not a child" he adds. 

" I'm tired, Eddie" you mumbled. " Go home"

He grumbled and started to get undressed.

" What are you doing?" you asked. 

Eddie slips off his jacket and tossing it aside as he slips off his shirt. 

Eddie shrugged, unfazed. “I’m getting comfortable. If I’m going to have this fight with you, I might as well be relaxed.”

The sight of his bare skin sent your heart racing, a familiar warmth creeping into your cheeks. The tattoos dance across his skin like a work of art in a gallery. 

"You can't just waltz into my room and strip down like we’re just friends,” you shot back, trying to keep your voice steady. 

Eddie grinned, that infuriating, charming smirk plastered on his face. “ Oh sweetheart, we're not friends from the way we kiss." 

He takes off his pants next. 

“Eddie!” you protested, heat rising in your cheeks. “You are unbelievable!”

He shrugged again, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “What? Never seen a man in boxers?" 

You tried to avert your gaze, but your eyes betrayed you, lingering on the way his muscles moved under his skin. 

“Eddie, this isn’t a joke,” you stammered, heart racing. “You can’t just come here and stay here." 

" Oh kid, I'll sleep right next to you" 

Your heart sank, a mix of desire and frustration swirling within you. “You really think this is how you win an argument? By stripping down and playing the charming idiot?” 

Eddie chuckled, that familiar laughter echoing in the cramped space. 

" You love me , and I am not going anywhere" 

His voice clung to the air like a melody, and it sent a shiver down your spine. 

"You're not serious," you said, crossing your arms. He laid down next to you on the bed. " Oh I am" his arms snaked around your waist. 

You stiffened as you felt the heat of his body press against yours, the warmth intoxicating yet overwhelming. Eddie tucked his face into your neck, his breath warm against your skin, sending sensations cascading through you. 

“Eddie.." 

" Sleep now" he nudges you. 

Your heart raced against the whisper of his breath, the thrill of his presence curling around you like smoke. 

“Eddie, I still need to brush my teeth and wash my face" 

Eddie chuckled, the sound vibrating against your neck. “Oh, come on. I can handle all of that later. Just… let me be here. Please?”

" Your going to brush my teeth for me?" 

Eddie lifted his head slightly, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. “I could, if it means I get to stay longer,” he teased, leaning in closer, his breath tickling your cheek.

" God you're annoying" 

You turned in the darkness to look at him. 

Eddie's eyes sparkled, mischief dancing in their depths. “Yeah, but you love it,” he replied, inching even closer, the warmth of him overwhelming your senses. 

" Grandpa" you mumbled. 

“Hey, I’m not that old,” he shot back, laughter dancing in his eyes. He shifted slightly, the playfulness of the moment wrapping around you like a comforting blanket. 

“Yet here you are, stealing my space,” you murmered. His legs interwine with yours. " Eddie Munson!" 

Eddie's laughter filled the room, bright and warm, cutting through the tension like sunlight breaking through clouds. 

“Your space? Please. I’ve claimed this territory,” he teased, pressing closer as if to seal his claim.

You rolled your eyes. 

" You're such a bed hogger" 

“Only because I need to keep you close,” he shot back, a playful mischief in his eyes. “Can’t have you slipping away on me.”

" What if I need to pee?" 

He chuckled, the sound rumbling in his chest. “Then you’ll just have to wiggle your way out of my grasp, won’t you?” Eddie tightened his hold on you, his arms wrapping around your waist as if anchoring you.

" Some hold you have, working out or using your fingers on something else?" you teased. 

Eddie raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. “Well, it does take practice,” he quipped, a cheeky smile spreading across his face. 

You shook your head, a grin tugging at your lips. “You’re insufferable and annoying. Good thing your a good kisser." 

Eddie's laughter echoed in the room, filled with warmth and mischief. “Good kisser, huh? I’ll take that as a compliment.” His smirk widened, a light teasing in his voice. 

" All your good at " you teased. 

“Is that so?” Eddie leaned in a little closer, a wicked grin curling his lips. “You sure know how to flatter someone, don’t you?”

You pushed gently at his shoulder. 

" Only the pretty boys. That reminds me, I need to fish one at Steve." 

Eddie tilted his head, eyes narrowing playfully. “So, your type is ‘pretty boys’? Guess I’ve been misled all this time.” 

“Pretty and talented,” you shot back, your heart fluttering at the teasing banter. " I mean Steve works around the kitchen, drives the nicer car too..." 

Eddie rolled his eyes dramatically. “Please, you can take your culinary genius and shove it. I make a mean grilled cheese.” 

“Grilled cheese?” You laughed, the warmth of the moment wrapping around you like a soft blanket.

" I never seen you cook, Munson." 

Eddie feigned offense, clutching his chest dramatically. “You wound me! A musician’s life is filled with high art and deep creativity. Grilled cheese is a masterpiece of culinary engineering!”

You stopped laughing and looked at him memorizing him for the last time. 

His eyes caught the soft glow of your lamp, flecks of uncertainty and warmth playing across his features. The laughter faded, leaving an unspoken heaviness curling in the heated air between you both.

His eyes locked with yours.

" What?" He asks. 

" Just studying your face for the last time" 

The weight of your words settled between you like a dense fog, an ache you both felt but couldn’t voice. Eddie’s expression softened, something vulnerable flickering beneath his smirk.

“ So your not really coming tomorrow?" He asks.

Your heart clenched, the reality of your decision stinging sharply. “Eddie, I… I don’t think I can bear it,” you whispered, your voice trembling like a fragile thread stretched too thin.

“Y/N…” He sighed. Your eyes closed. 

“Y/N…” he repeated, his voice a gentle melody cutting through the weight of silence. 

You opened your eyes, meeting his gaze—a swirl of warmth and concern. 

"You can’t just choose to disappear on me." Eddie spoke. 

" You'll be okay" you tell him. 

"Okay?" Eddie's voice wavered. “You think I’ll just play a show, get signed, and be fine without you? This isn’t just some gig for me, Y/N. It’s everything. You are everything.” 

" Stop" you shook your head, " Get some sleep"

Eddie pinched the bridge of his nose, frustration spilling over the edges. “I’m not tired, and even if I were, I wouldn’t let you go. Not like this.”

You couldn’t hold back the sigh that escaped your lips, " Eddie. Sleep." 

Eddie nestled closer, his breath warm against your skin, a comforting weight anchoring you in place. You could feel the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, each pulse echoing the tension still lingering in the atmosphere. 

“Y/N?” His voice calls out to you. 

You paused, heart skipping at the gentle urgency in his tone. “Yeah?” 

“Can we just… stay like this?” Eddie’s voice softened, a raw vulnerability creeping in. “Just for a little while? A moment before the world turns upside down tomorrow?” 

“Okay,” you whispered, allowing the warmth of his presence to wrap around you like a soft blanket. Eddie’s arms slipped tighter around your waist, grounding you both as if the world outside ceased to exist.

He kisses your shoulder just as you drift off to sleep. 

[sweet-villain]

Cause I Believe~ 8 Older Eddie Munson

Part 7

Summary : A date with Eddie, a conversation that's sideways

Eddie munched on his burger, his hands glistering with grease as ketchup painted one of his fingers. 

“You ever stop and think about what you really want?”

You paused, the weight of his question hovering like the last rays of sunlight.

“I don’t know,” you muttered, eyes dropping to your half-eaten burger.

Eddie leaned forward.

“C’mon. There’s gotta be something. A dream. A kick-ass goal.”

A nervous chuckle escaped, this erratic warmth contrasting with the chill creeping up your spine. “Dreams don’t come true for people like me.”

“People like you?” He tilted his head, a half-smile splitting his lips. “What do you mean?”

A glance at his faded band t-shirt, memories tangled in nostalgia, urged an answer. “I’m just… ordinary, Eddie. What’s the point?”

Eddie shook his head, a strand of silver hair falling over his eyes as he pushed it back with a flick of his wrist. “Ordinary? Man, you’re more than that. You're beautiful.." he trails. 

Eddie's voice softened, the playful edge fading as he focused on you. “ You're so much more than a diner girl. Steve is lucky to have you helping him out." 

You squirmed in your seat, the compliment like a moth bumping against your heart. You pushed a stray fry around the plate. “It’s just a job. I mean, it’s not a life plan or anything.”

Eddie studied you. 

" Then why aren't you chasing after what you reall want?" He asks, licking off the ketchup off his finger.

You glanced out the window, the streetlights flickering to life, casting shadows across the vinyl booth. 

“Because it’s easier to blend in with everyone else here, then look for something that might not be there." 

Eddie scoffed, a playful smirk creeping onto his face. “Blending in? You? No way.”

" You don't get it" you picked at your burger like it was something so gross. 

“Try me.” He leaned back, arms crossed, an eyebrow raised defiantly.

" You want to be a rockstar, you have dreams and you sing. You play. You have many friends. You're something unlike me..." 

“Yeah, but I'm not a rockstar yet, sweetheart." 

His voice softened, the twinkle in his eyes slightly dimming. “I’m still just Eddie who plays in bars, you know? Chasing shadows and old dreams. There’s safety in the dark, but no glory.”

" But I have connections and I believe that connection will get you somewhere." 

Eddie leaned forward, the wisps of his smoke-scented hair framing his face as if to shield the truth beneath. “Connections? Those can fade faster than old band posters. What about passion? What makes your heart beat like a drum when the light goes out?" 

" This connection I have is very reliable, it will get you in a studio" 

“You think so?” Eddie’s brows knitted together, his voice rising with a hopeful bounce as he leaned closer, the dim light highlighting the contours of his face. “I mean, that’s great, but does it strike a chord in your heart?”

" What do you mean? Your the muscian here, Eddie. Not me. I have different dreams." 

" Like what?" 

" I want to be a photographer... a mother.." you whispered the last words out. 

“Photographer? That's amazing” he said slowly, the grin fading, replaced by a seriousness.

“Yeah, but it feels silly saying it out loud,” you murmured, tracing a ring of ketchup on the table with your fingertip.

Eddie leaned back, crossing his arms but keeping his eyes on you. 

" You know, maybe we should get you a camera to get you started" He says. 

" That's expensive, and your not doing it" 

“Why not?” His gaze pierced through the dim lit diner, eyes bright with challenge. “If you want it, why not fight for it?”

“But I don’t know the first thing about photography!” The words tumbled out in a rush. " I'm just a lost cause with it" 

Eddie’s laughter bounced off the diner’s walls, a melodic sound that contrasted with the drab grease-stained surroundings. “A lost cause? Look at me. Have you seen me? I didn't start playing guitar with the snap of my fingers." 

" But you had a vision" you mumbled. 

" It took time and a hell of a lot of practice,” he said, his eyes glinting as passion fueled his voice. “I painted my dreams on stage and bled through every note. Every strum, every word I sang out at a bar microphone wasn't with seconds that came to me." 

“Yeah, but you had the courage to show it,” you countered, your fingers tightening around the edge of your plate. 

" You start small, and then progress" 

" Why do you want me to presue this?" you asked him. 

Eddie leaned back, arms folded across his chest, his smirk giving way to a more serious tone.

“Because I see you, you know? With that camera in your hands, capturing moments the rest of the world overlooks. You’re not ordinary. You're something,” he replied, his voice low.

" But the other thing you didn't hear, right?"

Eddie raised an eyebrow, leaning in as if drawing the truth from the air between you. “What’s that?”

" It's nothing" you shook your head. 

Eddie's eyes narrowed, sizing you up. "Not buying it." He leaned closer, elbows resting on the table, his focus narrowing “You think I wouldn’t understand? Just spit it out.”

" I know your older than me, but have you wondered what's it like to be a dad?" 

Eddie blinked, caught off guard. The air shifted, a dense silence filling the space between you. 

“Why do you ask?” His voice dipped low, a hint of wariness creeping in.

" Because I want to be a mother one day... and we're kinda dating?" 

Eddie’s expression shifted, confusion mingling with something deeper. He fiddled with the greasy wrapper of his burger, tearing it methodically, his eyes refusing to meet yours.

“Yeah, but…,” Eddie hesitated, his words caught in the space between you, swirling like the remnants of the burger floating in his imagination. “That’s a big deal. It’s like… life-changing.”

" I'm not saying right now, Eddie. But one day. But you want to travel the world..." 

Eddie finally met your gaze, eyes searching yours for honesty, for the truth buried beneath layers of hopes and fears. 

" Yeah, my dream is to sing on a big stage in front of the crowd with a guitar in my hands. I want people to hear me, cheer for Eddie Munson..." 

He cleared his throat.

“...and I want to feel the music vibrating in my bones,” he finished, his voice laced with a raw intensity. Eddie leaned back, his fingers brushing against the chipped edge of the tabletop.

“You can but would you ever want a family of your own?" 

Eddie stared into the remains of his burger, contemplating. “I don’t know,” he finally replied, voice barely above a whisper. " I don't think I'm cut out to be a father..." 

Silence enveloped the table, stretching between you like an invisible barrier. You traced the outline of your plate, the remnants of your burger abandoned, coating your fingers in grease. 

“Why not?” The question slipped out before you could swallow it.

" I don't know how to be one. My father was never there for me..." he replied. 

A heaviness settled over you as his words hung in the air. The flickering diner lights flickered like memories fighting to surface. 

“I just…,” Eddie paused, his gaze dropping to the table. “I don’t want to mess it up and have the kid live the life I lived through..." he adds. 

You leaned in, studying the shadows tracing the lines of his face. “Eddie, you can’t control everything. No one has the perfect playbook for parenting.” 

" Look sweetheart..this date has been nice and all..." 

Eddie tossed a napkin onto his plate.

“...but I’m still just figuring out my own life.” He leaned back, glancing up at you. 

" I'm not rushing you, we're just talking about it" 

Eddie let out a breath, a half-laugh escaping as he scratched the back of his neck. “Talking about family at a burger joint seems kinda backwards, don’t you think?”

You shrugged, a smile creeping up the corner of your mouth.

"We have been on one date, sweetheart.." he adds. " You want a family sweetheart, your looking at the wrong place.." 

Your smile faltered, the tension wrapping tighter around your chest. “Maybe,” you murmured, eyes flickering to the window where the night soaked the street in deep shadows. 

The clock stroke 12 am and it was your birthday and the conversation you were having with Eddie was thick with tension and silence. 

" Happy Birthday, sweetheart" Eddie says trying to bring you back to him. But it was clear there was tension and uneasyiness between the two of you. 

“Thanks,” you replied, forcing a smile. The words felt hollow, echoing against the walls of uncertainty. “Guess we should celebrate, huh?”

" How about first, I take you home to get some sleep and when you wake up... well we will see." 

You swiped at a crumb on the table, avoiding his gaze. The offer lingered like a hint of hope, yet it felt shrouded in all this unspoken tension. 

“Yeah… that sounds good,” you finally said. You cleaned up the plates and washed them in the back that Steve wouldn't find out you were there. You took your keys and wiped down the counter while Eddie watched. 

Eddie stood up and helped you get your things as you two exited the diner, locking up that Steve didn't find out you were here. 

The crisp night air tingled against your skin, carrying the scent of fried food and the distant hints of rain. Streetlights glowed like distant stars, casting patterns on the pavement as you and Eddie stepped into the quiet embrace of night.

“You okay?" He asked, the conversation stopped and you stopped looking at him. Giving him any attention.

“Just… thinking,” you replied, voice barely a whisper.

" About what?" He asks. 

“About everything.” You stuffed your hands into your pockets, the chill creeping into your bones.

Eddie walked beside you, his gaze scanning the ground as if searching for clues in the cracks of the pavement. “Sounds heavy. Got something specific?”

" This" you answered. " Whatever this is between us" 

Eddie stopped in his tracks. “What do you mean?”

You took a breath, steadying your racing heart. “Us. This... connection....I thought we had something good." 

“Of course,” he replied, the hint of confusion stark against the quiet night. “We do.”

“ We want different things" 

He tilted his head, his brow furrowing deeper. “What do you want, then? Because you just told me that you want something different from me.”

“I want more than just... this,” you gestured between the two of you, " I don't want the banter back and forth. I don't want just the flirting. I don't want teasing, the what if's. I want a future with someone, but you don't seem to be in it because you'll go be someone out there one day" you throw your your hand to the sky as if telling him he will be someplace else without you. 

“Listen,” he said, his voice low, almost a murmur. “Music is my first love and it means a lot to me.." he starts. 

"That’s great, but what about me?" Your voice sharpened with a mixture of frustration and longing. 

Eddie stepped closer, the space between you, " you'll have to wait for me." 

“Wait?” The word spilled from your lips, heavy with disbelief. “You want me to wait while you figure out every note and lyric in your band?"

Eddie stepped closer, the space between you shrinking, his brow furrowing deeper. “It’s not just about the music. It’s about finding myself again—becoming someone I can be proud of.”

“And what if you don’t come back and decide to buy mansion, surround yourself with girls that wear barely nothing...?"

Eddie’s eyes flickered with surprise, narrowing as he leaned closer, the weight of your words hanging heavily in the night air. “You really think that about me?” 

" Have you seen yourself Eddie? You're beautiful..." 

" My looks aren't everything, sweetheart.." 

Eddie glanced away, fingers tangling in his hair, frustration flickering across his features. “This isn’t about charm or looks. It’s way deeper than that. You think I want to ditch this… whatever we have?”

“Then what do you want me to do?" 

Eddie took a deep breath, the weight of expectations pressing down on his broad shoulders. “I don’t want you to do anything. I want you to be real. I want you to understand that I’m just… I'm still trying to understand where to go, what to do with myself..." 

"I just don't know what to do with this, with us.." 

Eddie's eyes softened, the tension bleeding from his expression. “Look, I might not have all the answers, and maybe I can’t give you what you want right now, but I care about you. This isn’t just empty banter and empty conversations." 

You stepped back, caught off guard by the weight of his words. “It feels like we’re stuck in this endless circle, Eddie. You want freedom, and I’m just looking for someone to share my life with.”

" I just want to be something to the world" he says. 

Eddie’s voice trembled slightly, the intensity of his gaze penetrating through the shadows. 

“Something?” you echoed, a knot tightening in your chest. “What does that even mean? You’re already something to me.” 

He inhaled, " Sweetheart. The world use to see me very differently. Never stood a chance agaisnt anyone. I've had friends, I've lost people and it hurt. Now, I want to be something out there that people see Eddie Munson isn't just a guy who own a music store, who sings in bars and plays guitar... he means something. I want to have someone be proud of me..." 

“You think I wouldn’t be proud of you?” 

Eddie ran a hand over his face, exhaling sharply. “It’s not that. It’s just… the path I’m taking is uncertain. If I dive into this music thing, it’s all or nothing. And I don’t want you waiting around for something that might break your heart.”

" Eddie..." 

" I don't deserve uncertainty.. I don't deserve to just be a waiting game..." you tell him.

“Listen,” he said, his voice softer now, almost pleading. " Before you came along, my plan was to leave Hawkins, to find my way into the music business. To be someone." 

You shook your head, hurt curling in your chest. “So this is it? You’re just going to leave everything behind? Leave me?”

" I didn't say that, I am still working my way around" 

“I’m not saying I want to abandon you. I care, but I can’t promise anything. My life’s a mess.”

You swallowed hard, " and mine isn't?"

" Let me get you home" he abodones the conversation. 

Eddie turned away, his shoulders tight with unsaid words. The night air wrapped around you like an uncertain cloak, blending the warmth of the diner’s greasy aroma with the chill that settled deep in your bones. 

“Fine,” you finally said, " what a shitty way to start my birthday." 

Eddie rubbed the back of his neck, the gesture betraying his frustration. “I didn’t mean for this to go sideways. I just… I don’t know how to handle all this.” 

" Don't worry" you hissed. 

You opened his car door and slam it when you got in. Eddie slipped into the driver's seat, the tension is heavy, thickening the air between you like the fog rolling over the horizon. The engine roared to life.

He adjusted his seat and backed up from the parking lot. 

“Where to?” he asked, his voice steady but eyes still fixed ahead.

“Just take me home, please.” You crossed your arms, the chill from the air conditioning feeling sharper than it should. 

Eddie glanced sideways, searching your expression and sighed. He tried to reach over to touch you but you moved further into your seat. 

The silence settled back into the car like an unwanted passenger, its weight muting every bump on the road. 

Eddie drummed his fingers on the wheel. 

You glared over at him. 

“Look,” he said, breaking the silence," I'm into you. Your into me." 

“I was until now,” you shot back, the words sharper than you intended.

Eddie's grip on the steering wheel tightened, his fingers curling around the leather. “That’s not fair. We’re just figuring things out.”

“Figuring things out my ass" 

Eddie slammed his palm against the steering wheel, the sound echoing in the confined space of the car. “You can’t just throw that at me like I don’t care! I’m trying here.”

“Trying?” You laughed, " that is some bullshit." 

Eddie’s jaw tightened, the muscles in his neck straining as he focused on the road ahead, knuckles white against the steering wheel. “What do you want me to do? Wave a magic wand and fix everything in an hour?”

“ No, I want you to consider that you might have a future here... with me..." 

Eddie's grip on the steering wheel tightened even more, the leather creaking beneath his fingers. He stole a glance at you.

“Do you really think I haven’t considered that?” His voice cracked slightly, a vulnerable edge creeping into his tone. “This place, this life… it’s all I’ve ever known. But it’s not enough anymore. I want more. I want to be out there. Out of this place." 

The words hung in the air.

“So you want to leave me, Dustin, Steve.. Robin.. Mike.. your music shop.. your home...?"

Eddie's fingers tightened on the steering wheel, the knuckles turning pale.

“Home?” He glanced over, urgency flickering in his eyes. “This place feels so damn suffocating lately. I'm so tired of living here..." 

You felt a twinge of frustration mingle with concern. “So, what? Running away is the answer? Just ditching everything you’ve built?”

“I’m not running away! I’m trying to find myself. To become someone worth something!”

" Stop yelling at me, Munson and two, what the fuck am I to you then? Huh? Why banter with me? Why flirt with me? why do this?" 

Eddie clenched his jaw, his expression shifting between frustration and confusion. 

“Because you matter,” he shot back, his voice strained but firm. “You have no idea how much it means to me. But you can’t ask me to drop my dreams that I have wanted since I was kid..." 

" I'm not just some chapter to you, Eddie.." 

Eddie’s brow furrowed, his grip on the wheel unyielding as he focused on the road ahead. “I never said that. You’re not just a chapter, you’re—”

“Then what am I?” Your voice cracked. " Why are you doing this to me..?" 

Eddie’s grip on the wheel softened at your question. He shifted in his seat, eyes narrowing on the road ahead.

“You’re…” His breath caught, the air heavy with unsaid truths. “You make it so easy to be myself, you make me feel so many things but I'm still figuring life even if I have a few grey hairs, more tattoos and I'm grown up. I'm not the boy that grew up. It's too hard to explain it to you.." 

A bitter laugh escaped your lips, surprising you both. “So the solution is to just walk away? When things get tough, you bail?” 

Eddie's jaw clenched, and he sighed heavily, fingers tightening again on the wheel. “ I am not running away, I am figuring out.." 

“Figuring out what?” you pressed, the frustration bubbling over. “How to abandon the people who care about you when it gets complicated?”

Eddie’s knuckles turned white against the steering wheel. “It’s not that simple. You don't know me, sweetheart." 

Your heart raced, anger mixing with a prickling hurt. “I don’t know you? I’m the one who sits across from you, who hears your dreams and doubts. I see you, Eddie.”

He shot you a glance, frustration flickering his eyes. 

" Sweetheart I can't keep doing this with you over and over" 

“Doing what?” you shot back.

“Dancing around these conversations. It’s exhausting,” Eddie replied. He parks the car in the parking lot of the apartment complexes. He shuts off the engine. 

" Tell me right now, was it a lie that you like me.. was it some game for you to enjoy watching me chase you like a little girl?" 

“Are you serious right now?” His voice dripped with disbelief. ““Am I serious?” Your indignation flared, cheeks tinged with anger. “You flirted, you took me out—was it all for a laugh? Entertainment?”

“Hell no!” Eddie slammed his hands against the steering wheel. " I do like you, alot." 

“Then what is this?” You gestured wildly, the tension tangling in your nerves. “Is it just a phase? Or am I here to serve as your safety net while you figure out your grand escape from Hawkins?”

" Why do you keep saying like your just some helping hand?" 

“Because that’s how it feels!” The words burst from your lips, raw and unfiltered. “Like I’m just a distraction while you chase bigger dreams.”

" You were the one who offered me about this connection you have saying oh Eddie you'll make it big... yadda yadda.." 

“Because I believe in you!” You shot back, frustration spearing through your chest. “But it feels like you’re the one who doesn’t believe in us.”

Eddie's hands fell to his lap, tension rippling through him. “ I do, but I want to travel the world making music, sharing my music with the world too." 

“Then what's left for me?” Your voice cracked, the unease gnawing at your insides. “You keep talking about dreams, about leaving, but I’m stuck here—waiting for you to decide if I even matter.”

" you do matter! This is what I want, I'm sticking to it." 

" You know what, I'm tired of this going in circles with you. Here" you fished out a number for him to call, " this is my uncle's number. He's a producer. Call him or not. Whatever, I'm done here" you opened the door, stepping out into the cold air. " Good luck, rockstar" you slamme the car door. 

" I'm so stupid" you mumbled to yourself heading up the stairs to your apartment. 

You expected Eddie to run after you and tell you he's wrong about all this. But he remained in the car, stunned. 

You opened your apartment door and slide down it with your head in your hands as tears ran down your rosy cheeks. 

You don't rememebr what time you went to bed, but you wake up the next morning with knocking on your door that you had no idea who it was. You weren't expecting anyone. 

Your groaned throwing your door opened seeing Steve, Dustin, and Robin standing there with happy looks on their faces. 

“Happy birthday!” they chorused, their excitement bursting through the doorway like confetti. 

Steve held a colorful cake topped with candles, while Dustin bounced on his feet, barely able to contain his energy. They pushed their way inside, Robin looks around. 

" Why does it smell like fries?" She asks. 

You blinked, heart still racing from the night before. “Umm… I made burgers last night.” The words slipped out almost sheepishly.

Steve raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying the half-hearted excuse. “ Where?' his eyes narrowed. 

" Um... hehe.. about that.." you start, rubbing the back of your neck.

“Oh no, you didn’t,” Steve said, throwing his hands up. " I didn't give you the key to sneak in for late night cravings. Someone could of stoled something from the diner!" 

You stepped back, a sheepish grin creeping across your face. “I’m still here, aren’t I? No one robbed the place. Just a few burgers and some late-night musings.”

Dustin eyed you suspiciously, tapping his foot, " Uh huh... with who?" 

" I don't want to talk about it" 

“Come on, Spill it!” Robin chimed in, leaning against the archway, a playful smile teasing. 

You swallowed hard, the memories of last night swirling like smoke in your mind. 

“Nothing happened. Just… a little heart-to-heart.”

“Heart-to-heart?” Dustin echoed, eyes wide. “That sounds suspicious. What kind of heart-to heart and with whom?"

You hesitated, the weight of last night pressing heavily on your chest. 

“Just… Eddie,” you finally admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. 

“Eddie?” Steve's eyebrows shot up, leaning in as if he was trying to understand. " What happened?" 

You sighed, the weight of the night pressing down again. “It's complicated. We talked about... a lot.”

Dustin nudged you, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Like what? Was it romance stuff?” 

“Maybe.” You shrugged, " I found out some hurtful things.." 

Robin leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with interest. “Hurtful how? What did he say?”

You sighed, rubbing your temples. “It’s not so much what he said. It’s about what he doesn’t want.” 

Steve crossed arms, " Do I need to talk to him?" 

You raised an eyebrow, the faintest hint of a smile threatening at the corners of your mouth. “You? Talk to Eddie? Good luck with that.”

Steve rolled his eyes, a mock expression of offense crossing his face. “Hey, I can be intimidating when need be. Just give me a baseball bat and a serious face.”

Dustin snorted, shifting from foot to foot with anticipation. “ Yeah, when was the last time you won a fight?"

Steve shot him a glare while you suppressed a smile.

“Alright, alright,” you said, moving to the kitchen. “You guys really came talk about Eddie or celebrate with me?" 

Steve tossed the cake onto the counter, grinning widely. “We came to celebrate, obviously! I mean, I figured this birthday was going to be a whole thing, and not a heart-to-heart with Eddie Munson.”

" Where is Eddie, anyways?" 

" Probably sleeping" Steve says. " it's very quite next door" he adds. 

You turned to eye the wall that separated your apartment from Eddie's. The memories of last night felt raw and fresh, tumbling in your chest like bits of crumpled paper. 

“Guess he needed a good snooze after all that heart to heart" Dustin joked. 

" Or a good knock in the head" you mumbled. 

“Yeah, sounds like he could use it,” Robin chimed in, her playful grin giving way to concern. "Hey, everything aside, you know you can talk to us, right?"

" It's complicated. He's complicated. Feelings are complicated." 

" Wait, you have feelings for Eddie?" Dustin gasped. 

The weight of his question hung in the air, dense and unfamiliar. 

“Dustin, I—” you started, searching for words that could untangle the mess sitting in your chest, " I did, but…"

"But what?" He asked. 

" Things might not happen between us" Dustin mouth opened and closed. 

" But you guys are so good for each other" Robin says. 

“Good for each other, sure,” you replied, the edge of frustration creeping into your tone. “But what does that even mean? Being good for someone doesn’t guarantee anything.” 

Dustin threw his hands up in exasperation. “ You two are like the ying and yang" he motions with his hand. 

“Yin and yang?” You scoffed, shaking your head. “We’re more like oil and water.”

Steve stifled a laugh, crossing his arms as he leaned against the counter. “You’re making it sound way worse than you think"

" Did he even get you anything for your birthday?" Steve asked. 

You hesitated, the question hanging in the air like a stubborn cloud. “Not exactly,” you finally replied, forcing a faint smile. “Not really." 

" What?!" Dustin yelled, " I am going to go knock on his door right now and show him a thing or two" he rolled up his sleeves. 

“Dustin, chill!” You reached out, grabbing his arm before he could make his move. “Don’t go storming over there. It won’t help anything.”

“But he’s a total jerk for not doing something. It’s your birthday"

A knock comes to the door and all head turns to glance at it. You let Dustin go making your way to the door and throwing it open. One the ground laid a present, a bit heavy looking too. 

You crouched down to see who's its from, it has his initials. Eddie. 

You brought it inside and set it down on the counter, opening it up and gasping seeing what it was. A camera. Expensive one. 

“Whoa,” Robin said, peering over your shoulder, eyes wide with wonder. “This is… incredible.”

Dustin gasped, " This must of cost a fortune." 

" I'm going to kill him" you muttered. 

" Since when does Munson afford such a thing" Steve asks. 

You stared at the camera, its sleek body polished under the kitchen lights, the weight of it settling in your hands like a sudden realization. 

“ I need to return this to him, I can't take it" 

“Why not?” Robin asked, her brow furrowing a little. “It’s a gift. A really nice one at that.”

“It’s too much,” you replied, the weight of the camera pressing down on your heart. “He shouldn’t, he can't." 

Robin rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. “Oh please. He’s into you. Can’t you just accept that he cares?”

" if this is his way of proving his cares, I don't want it" you put the camera in the box and walking to the front door. " I'm going to give him a piece of my mind" you add.

“Wait!” Dustin called after you, the urgency in his voice barely cutting, " he's working today, he probably dropped it off." 

You paused, fingers hovering over the doorknob. “Working? At the music shop?” 

“Yeah! He’s probably there right now,” Dustin called from the kitchen, his excitement deflating like a balloon. “What are you going to tell him?"

You turned back, the camera cradled in your arms like a fragile promise. “I don’t know! Something needs to be said. He can’t just toss gifts my way and expect everything to be fine!”

Steve stepped closer, concern etched in his face, " he likes you. We all know he does." 

You shook your head, frustration bubbling up again. “Liking someone doesn’t erase all the other nonsense from last night. It doesn’t change the fact that he looks at his dreams and sees freedom while I’m just… here.” 

Robin stepped closer, " But it doesn't mean that you two don't deserve each other." 

You hesitated, holding the camera away from your body as if it radiated the very truth you feared facing. 

“Look, maybe he’s just trying to figure out how to balance everything,” Robin said softly, her voice steady. “You can’t just dismiss that he sees something in you too.”

“Something?” you echoed, running a hand through your hair, " I am a person with feeling. I brought up to him, brushed up on one day of being a mother and he pushed me away like I want it right now." 

Maybe he panicked. You dropped a lot on him all at once. He wasn’t ready for that conversation.”

" But I didn't mean it right now" 

“But you weren’t wrong either,” Robin countered, her gaze steady. “You opened up, and it scared him. Just give him a chance to process it. You both deserve a chance.”

" But he wants to travel the world, be a rockstar. How is that going to work if say I get pregant and he can't make it when the baby is born?" 

Robin crossed her arms, her brow furrowing as she took in your words. “That’s a big ‘what if.’ You’re jumping to conclusions." 

" I am just saying, he wants his fame and freedom." 

“Maybe it’s not just about that,” Robin said, leaning against the countertop, her gaze unwavering. “Maybe he’s not looking to leave everyone behind. He just wants to find his way. You know?”

“Find his way? How long has that been going on? He's not a teenager anymore." 

“True," Robin replied, her brow furrowing, "but that doesn’t mean he’s figured it all out, either.”

Dustin shifted from foot to foot, hands bouncing with unspent energy. “People don’t have all the answers right now and he's been hurt a lot in the past. He's not the same as he used to be" Dustin says. " We all saw him at his lowest and we all see him at his highest." 

" Have you even seen him sing? Play?" Robin asked.

You shook your head, feeling the tension constrict around your heart. “I know he has talent. That’s not the issue. I just…” 

" You should see how much he wants his dream, watch him perform. Through music you'll understand him more." 

“Music isn’t just notes to him,” Dustin added, bouncing on his feet with excitement. “It’s the world. It’s his way of fighting back against everything that’s held him down. When he sings, it’s like he sheds all of off and show that he's a person too, sharing his feelings, sharing that he's real." 

You stared at Dustin, his words chipping away at the armor around your heart. 

“Music,” you echoed, feeling the weight of it sink in. “It’s everything to him, isn’t it?”

“More than just notes and lyrics. It's been his life line." 

You cradled the camera tighter, the weight of your concern intertwining with a glimmer of understanding. “He needs that freedom to chase something.”

" I don't want to hold him back then" you mumbled.

Dustin stepped closer, his eyes sparkling with a mix of empathy and determination. “You don't have to hold him back. You can be part of that journey. He wants to share this with someone, and maybe that someone can be you.”

“But he doesn't seem to want me, he isn't here..." 

Dustin’s eyes narrowed, a flicker of determination shining through the uncertainty. “No one said it’s easy, but you’ve got to believe he cares. He showed it by getting you that camera. He doesn't have money left and right hanging out of his pockets." 

“Yeah, but that doesn’t make everything okay,” you sighed, the camera feeling heavier in your grasp. “Just because he gave me a gift doesn’t erase the doubts piling up in my head.”

“Then talk to him,” Steve urged, " tell him everything. Show him, yell at him if you have to. But tell him, use your words. He's not a kid, he's a grown man." 

You met Steve's gaze, uncertainty swimming in your chest like a buoy lost at sea. “And what if he decides I’m not worth the trouble?” 

“Then he’s a damn fool,” Steve declared, arms crossed tightly. “But you need to lay it all out for him and then let him decide what he wants." 

The weight of Steve's words sank deep, stirring something within you. You looked at the camera again. It gleamed under the kitchen lights, catching reflections of hope mixed with uncertainty. 

“What if –” you started, unable to suppress the way the words form in your mouth, " what if he looks at me when I walk through the music shop and it all goes to shit?" 

Dustin stepped closer, determination flickering in his eyes. “You won’t know until you try. You’re not walking into a battlefield; just a conversation.”

Robin nodded, her expression steady. “Just be honest with him. Lay it all and if he decides he doesn't want this, fuck him and come back and we can get drunk." 

The weight of Robin's words pressed heavily against your chest as you considered the options. 

" You know what the worst part of it.." 

" What?" Dustin asked. 

" I like him, but I'm scared to fall for him and it's too late.. I think..." 

The room seemed to still, the weight of your admission hanging in the air like an unresolved chord. 

“Scared?” Robin’s brow furrowed, her expression softening in understanding. “ it's okay to be scared to fall for someone.." 

“But what if I fall too hard?” The question slipped from your lips, barely a whisper. You felt vulnerable as the words lingered and heavy.

" You tell him" Steve says. 

“Tell him?” You echoed, staring at the gleaming camera as if it held the key to your unspoken fears. “Tell him what exactly? That I’m terrified of losing him before I’ve even really had him?”

“Exactly that,” Steve nods. " You two are two idiots not seeing it." 

You contemplated the weight of those words, their gravity wrapping around you like a cloak. “How do I even start?” 

Dustin shrugged, a reassuring smile on his face. “Start with how you feel. Lay it all out there. No hiding, just tell him." 

" Thank you, I just don't know if words will form" you laughed.

“Trust me,” Dustin said, a grin stretching across his face. “You’re stronger than you think. You just have to believe in yourself.”

" How did no one else snatch him up after all this time?" 

A glimmer of amusement washed over Steve’s face. “Honestly, have you seen his hair? It’s like a bird’s nest.”

" He does have some strands of grey hair too" you added. 

Laughter bubbled through the tension, illuminating the gloom hovering in your heart. 

“Seriously,” Robin chuckled, “I bet he’s got old ladies feeding him bread crumbs just to see him strut around.”

" But seriously Y/N, go talk to him" Steve says. 

"Yeah, you need to," Robin chimed in, crossing her arms. " We will wait here" she adds. 

" How am I going to ge there?" 

" Run, walk" Steve says. You eyed Steve keys around his belt. 

Steve looked down at his keys and then back at you, " First you sneak into the diner with Munson and now you want to borrow my car. Are you okay?" He asks. 

You bit your lip, a rush of determination crowding out the lingering fear. “Just… imagine me getting there in a hurry.” 

“Sure, but I’m not driving you,” he chuckles. Your smile got wider and his eye grew wide.

" No!" he pointed a finger at you. 

“Steve, please,” you pleaded, your heart racing at the thought of not seizing this moment. “Just this once!”

" You're going to wreck her" Steve wined. 

“Come on, Steve!” you urged, desperation clawing at your throat. “I need to talk to him now, before I lose my nerve.”

“NO"

“Come on!” You stomped your foot, frustration bubbling over. “I need this. Just this once, let me borrow the car!”

Steve glanced from you to Dustin and Robin, unsure what to do. His brow knitted in thought. 

" You're something else, you know?" he angerily took the keys off his belt loop and tossed it to you. " Not a scartch or it's coming out of your paycheck." 

“Thanks, Steve! You’re the best!” 

“Yeah, yeah,” he grumbled, eyes rolling, but the corners of his mouth betrayed a hint of smile, " happy birthday" he adds. 

You clutched the car keys, heart racing with a surge of adrenaline. “I’ll be back soon!” The door swung shut behind you as you rushed out, the chill of the morning air invigorating your spirit.

The engine roared to life as you held the camera down in the passenger side while driving off to the music store. The streets were busy as you drove by, nibbling on your lip trying to get there faster. 

The music shop sign came to your vision as you parked around the corner to it finding a spot right off the bat. You slide out the car with the camera in your hands. 

Your heart raced as you approached the familiar storefront, the colorful signs beckoning you like a siren’s call. The clashing sounds of guitars being strummed and laughter mingled in the air like sweet melodies. You paused at the door, breathing in as your eyes watched Eddie as he was ringing up a customer. 

His fingers danced over the register keys, a few strands of silver catching the afternoon light. He laughed easily—his laughter a magnet pulling you closer, an intoxicating blend of familiarity and fear. 

Taking a deep breath, you stepped inside, the door bell rang signaling him that he had a new customer or so he thought. 

Eddie glanced up, his smile widening as his eyes landed on you, a flicker of surprise igniting the air between you. He paused, his fingers lingering over the register as if time had hesitated alongside him. 

His eyes dropped to the camera in your hands. 

"Hi" you spoke first.

He walked around the counter as he approached, not too close but not far. 

" Hi" he greets you. 

[phantom-evil]

[aggressiveviking]

shaving 🪒

[f0xglover]

Dacres thighs.

That's it. That's the whole post.

[rigginsstreet]

Not the floopy hair in the back 😭

[shes-an-odd-bird]

I love this man, like LOVE this man but what’s happening back there?

[safk-art]

Happy Halloween!

[Patre0n] [instagram] [Twitter] [BluSky]

[shes-an-odd-bird]

My man 🔥

[mayalaen]

Dacre Montgomery News on Instagram: "Dacre and the team at the movie premiere @adlfilmfest @the_piccadilly 🤍 #dacremontgomery #actor #celeb

64 likes, 1 comments - dacremontgomery.news on October 26, 2024: "Dacre and the team at the movie premiere @adlfilmfest @the_piccadilly 🤍 #

[sweet-villain]

Cause I Believe ~7~ Older Eddie Munson

Part 6

Summary : You take Eddie one a date, a thing happens and a real talk happens too.

You rummaged through your closet, the fabric of your favorite shirt brushing your fingers. An old band tee, rough at the edges. Perfect.

“Eddie’s never seen you like this,” you muttered, slipping into a pair of boots. The mirror reflected a spark of excitement.

Eddie strolled into your apartment, a lopsided grin beneath his wild curls. He held a worn cowboy hat, tilting it to eye it nervously. 

“Does this make me look… ridiculous?” He scrunched his face, hand pressed against the brim, weighing it. He added a toothpick to the corner of his mouth

“Only if you don't wear it right,” you shot back, grabbing it from his hands. With a swift move, you placed it on his head, adjusting it playfully.

His hands brushed the felt, fingertips lingering on the edge. “I don't know, this kinda feels like a costume party. Are they gonna laugh at me?”

“They’ll envy you. Just watch.”

He shuffled his feet, both anxious and curious. “And you really want to take me line dancing?”

“Trust me. You’ll look good out there—just… follow my lead.”

Eddie shrugged, lips twitching up into a reluctant smile. “Fine, but if I step on your toes, I’m blaming you.”

" Stop being such a drama queen.....Edward.. your full name is Edward?" Eddie rolled his eyes, but the hint of a smile crept onto his lips. “Not even close. Eddie Munson, through and through, no fancy names needed.” 

"Suit yourself, Edward" you teased, while he huffed. “Very funny. Let’s hope the dance floor doesn’t chew me up and spit me out,” he quipped, his fingers brushing against the guitar pick necklace that hung loosely around his neck. 

" You'll be fine, a rockstar like you dancing like that would sure catch attention.." 

Eddie snorted, his eyes narrowing. “Yeah, because all the hotshot musicians just waltz into honky-tonks to show off their two left feet.” He adjusted the hat again, this time tilting it slightly to the side.

" You look good, but didn't you wear this shirt the other day?" you poked the sleeveless shirt that was torn on the bottom. 

Eddie shot you a mock glare. “You have no proof.” He crossed his arms, the pinky of his left hand gripping the collar like a shield. “Plus, it’s got... character.”

“Character, huh? More like it you need a new wardrobe" 

“Hey, this is vintage!” Eddie pronounced, his eyes widening as if he held the most valuable treasure. “A real piece of nostalgia. It’s a whole vibe, you know?”

" Yeah a vibe, I bet you only owe like three pair of pants" 

He chuckled, pushing the brim of the hat up with a finger. “Three? Try five. Every rockstar needs options.” He flashed a grin that danced across his face like a flickering flame.

“Do you have leapord pants too now? " you teased. 

Eddie leaned against the door frame, arms crossed, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Only on wild nights when I need to bring out my inner animal.” 

You laughed, imagining Eddie in a pair of leopard print trousers. 

“Please, hold your horses. We're not going to any rockstar show. Line dancing. I wanna see what moves you have." 

“Moves? Is that what we’re calling this?” Eddie wiggled his hips in an exaggerated fashion, his hat nearly slipping off. “I don’t think these hallowed halls of line dancing are ready for my signature moves.” He says. 

" Oh they aren't ready for two left feet Eddie Munson" you teased. Eddie rolled his eyes, his grin wide, revealing that spark of mischief. “Two left feet? I'm just saving my energy for the big show. The crowd can only handle so much.” 

“Right. And I’m sure they all are dying to swoon over your feet" 

Eddie straightened up, hands on his hips, feigning a pose. “I’m a wild card, baby. A real showstopper.” His voice dripped with sarcasm, and he failed to suppress a grin.

" Okay wild card, let's go before we're late" you pushed him out the door and locking the apartment. 

As you stepped into the brisk evening air, the sound of the city buzzed around you. The moon hung low, casting a golden color over everything. 

He opened the passenger side door for you. 

"Such a gentleman," you quipped, sliding into the seat. 

Eddie rolled his eyes but couldn’t mask the grin spreading across his face. “I gotta score some points before the toe-stepping starts.” He settled into the driver’s side, starting the car. 

" You need to clean this car once in awhile, Munson" you shoved some candy wrappers into the cup holder. 

Eddie chuckled, tossing an amused glance your way. “It’s character! Makes it feel lived-in. Besides, it matches my wardrobe perfectly.” He revved the engine, a low rumble that vibrated through the seats.

" It smells like someone died in here too" you waved your hand around. 

Eddie’s laughter blended with the rev of the engine as he arched an eyebrow at you. “Now you’re just being melodramatic. It’s called… ambiance.” He shot you a wink, shifting gears as he pulled onto the parking lot onto the road. 

" Do you know where we're going, Eddie? I'm suppose to be taking you on the date.." 

Eddie glanced at you, smirking. “Well, I thought I was the one supposed to be leading the way.” He turned onto a side street, tires crunching against gravel. “ Besides I don't think I'm all ready for you to drive my car" He adds. 

You looked disbelief, throwing your hands up. “What? Scared of my stellar driving skills?” 

“Let’s not test the limits of either my car or my sanity tonight.” Eddie leaned back, a mixture of amusement and mock horror dancing across his eyes. 

You gave Eddie the directions to go. 

" Wait, you must like me a lot to do this. You're not the type to like things like this" you turned to face him.

Eddie’s fingers drummed against the steering wheel, the rhythm of the car matched by the pace of his heartbeat. “You’re right. I don’t typically pair my dark aesthetic with sparkly boots and cowgirl hats.”

“Sparkly boots? Eddie they have glitter on them and it's barely showing" you chuckled, shaking your head. 

Eddie chuckled, his laughter warm against the cool evening air. “Just because they don’t shine like a disco ball doesn’t mean they don’t pack a punch. Besides,” he added, glancing sideways with a sly grin, “maybe I'm looking to impress you."

Heat washed over your cheeks, and a laugh escaped before you could catch it. You glanced out the window, the streetlights casting fleeting shadows across the dashboard, trying to mask the flutter in your chest. 

He parks the car in front of the small like resturant that blaring music inside, Eddie scrunches his nose not liking it to his taste. He leaves the car running as he looks over at you. 

Eddie’s gaze shifted to the entrance, where flashes of neon painted the night. “So this is the place, huh? Looks like a set from an old Western flick.” He chuckled, but there was an undercurrent of uncertainty beneath the tone he was using.

"you'll have fun" you reassured him by putting your hand on top of his on the sterring wheel. 

Eddie glanced down at your hand, fingers curling slightly as if absorbing the warmth. His brow relaxed, though uncertainty still lingered in his tight smile.

“Right, line dancing. This is totally my scene,” he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. " Born to do this" he groans. 

“Come on, rockstar. Embrace it!” You nudged him playfully, your touch lingering a moment longer than needed. The anticipation bubbled within you.

Eddie sighed, " You're lucky your cute." 

You laughed, caught off guard, the compliment hanging between you like a soft note. Eddie turned to face you, his expression a mix of challenge and intrigue. “Alright, cuteness. Let’s see if I can charm the boots off someone tonight." 

He turns off his car and walks around the passenger side to open the door. 

" After you princess" he says offering his hand out to you. 

You took his hand, a jolt like electricity sparking between your palms. With a confident stride, you stepped out, feeling the weight of the night settle around you. Eddie followed, the sound of his boots thudding against the pavement. 

His hand found yours as he locked the car behind him, following you as you led him inside. He stops in his tracks over looking the scene and feels his anxiety building up.

Eddie froze like a deer in headlights.

His hand was sweating against yours. 

You took a breath, squeezing his hand, feeling the warmth seep through your skin. “It’s just dancing, Eddie. Just people having fun,” you whispered, trying to anchor him as the neon lights flickered with riotous energy.

He shook his head, looking down at the ground. 

" Not my scene" 

You stepped closer, letting your fingers slip from his grasp, gently guiding his chin up. “Look at me. You can do this.” Your voice was steady, anchoring him. 

Eddie met your gaze, swallowing hard. 

“Yeah, but what’s the worst that can happen?” he replied, a hint of humor creeping into his tone even as doubt flickered in his eyes.

As you lead him to the dance floor, he followed slowly and took deep breathes. He didn't want to do this. 

" We don't have to if you don't want to" you tell him, bringing his fingers up and kissing them. The rings brusing agaisnt his lips.

Eddie’s breath caught in his throat, his eyes widening. “What was that for?” 

You shrugged, heart racing under his gaze. “Just giving you a little push. It helps to think about the fun, not the fear."

His cheeks flushed red as he looked down at you. 

" I'm not the age I used to be, my body isn't the same" he scratched his beard. 

“Age is just a number, Eddie. You’ve got spirit,” you countered, a playful lilt dancing in your tone.

He chuckled, the tension in his shoulders easing ever so slightly. “Spirit? Is that what you call nearly tripping over my own feet?” 

“We’ll start slow, I promise,” you said. You started to show him how you danced when a whirl of cowboy boots and laughter filled the air as the group encircled you, their movements following like clockwork.

You started to do what they were doing, smiling along. 

Eddie watched, mouth slightly agape, as you glided across the floor, spinning through the rhythm with grace. You pointed to your feet, mimicking the simple steps of the dance—a gentle as feather. Eddie moved slightly but he felt his anxiety eating him alive.

Eddie stood there, still rooted to the spot as you twirled and stepped, the pulsating beat pulling you like a magnet toward the rhythm. 

You saw how awkard he felt and started to pull him off the dance floor to the side.

You leaned in closer to Eddie, your breath brushing against his ear over the fading chords of a country tune. “Stay right here. I’ll grab us something to drink. Just breathe.” 

" Do my best" he says. Eddie stood awkwardly, his fingers tracing his own guitar pick necklace, until the woman approached him with an easy smile that glinted under the lights. 

“Hey there, stranger,” she said, " you alone?" she flirted putting her hand on his arm. " Nice tattoos" she adds. 

Eddie’s heart raced as her eyes sparkled with interest. He tried to shift his weight, but his feet felt glued to the floor, a sudden wave of heat rushing to his cheeks. 

“Uh, yeah, just, uh…” He didn't know what to say. You turned to walk back to the table and stopped in your tracks seeing the woman with Eddie. 

You paused, the weight of the moment pressing against your chest. The woman’s smile broadened, her fingers grazing Eddie's arm.

“Looks like you’ve made a friend,” you said, stepping back, placing the drinks a little too hard on the table. You didn't look at Eddie. 

Eddie’s expression shifted, surprise etched on his features as his gaze flickered between you and the woman. 

“Uh, hey,” he stammered, stumbling over himself as he realized you had returned. “This is, uh…” He looked wide eyed not knowing the woman's name. 

" Brittany" the woman says leaning closer to Eddie. 

Your heart sank, and the heat pooled in your cheeks. 

“Brittany, huh?” you said, forced cheerfulness lacing your voice. You crossed your arms, glancing between her and Eddie, whose face reflected confusion mixed with embarrassment. 

" Yeah, didn't you hear?" She scoffed. 

“Eddie here has got some killer taste in music,” she said, leaning closer, the laugh spilling like melted honey from her lips. 

Eddie shifted, his eyes darting between you and Brittany. “Right, uh, music. Yeah I uh..." 

" You two have fun then" you rolled your eyes, a thin smile on your lips. 

Eddie seemed to wilt under the weight of the moment, his eyes wide with confusion. “Wait, no, I—”

“Right?” Brittany interjected, a laugh following each of her words like a melody. “We were just talking about how handsome you are" Brittany ran her fake nails across his beard.

Eddie’s eyes darted between you and her, helplessness creeping into his expression. “I—thank you?” He stumbled over his words, a sheepish grin forming as his gaze landed on you.

You forced a chuckle, but a roll of eyes added. 

" I'll find my own way home" you mumbled. 

Eddie’s facade cracked, confusion etched across his face. “Wait—what? No, don't leave. I—”

“Hey, no worries!” Brittany interjected, winking at you as if claiming a piece of the night. “You don't need to worry about him. I'll take good care of him." 

You forced another smile, but the tightness in your chest felt suffocating. 

Eddie glanced between you and Brittany, his expression a mix of disbelief and guilt. “No, seriously, you don't need to…” 

But Brittany, sits in his lap as she wraps her arms around him. " What's your name, sugar?" She asked him.

Eddie shifted beneath her, eyes darting between you and the woman . “Uh, it’s Eddie,” he replied, voice barely rising above the music. 

You downed your drink and headed towards the door feeling sick watching him have her on him like that.

The front door swung open, the crisp night air slapping against your face like a wake-up call. 

You should of known flirting with Eddie was all it was going to get you. He wasn't about to choose you over some girl that walked up to him and sat herself on him. 

You stepped outside, the rush of cold air biting against your flushed cheeks as your mind raced. 

" Y/N?" A voice called out to you. You turned to see Steve. 

“Hey!” Steve jogged over, his brow knit with concern as he took in your pale expression. “What’s wrong? You look like you've seen a ghost.”

" I was suppose to go on a date with Eddie..." you mumbled.

Steve nods knowing you were suppose to.

" What happened?" 

“It's just… he’s sitting there with her.” You gestured back toward the entrance. The neon lights and thumping bass pulsed behind you, but all you could focus on was the sight of Eddie and Brittany’s laughter echoing in your ear.

" With who?"

“Brittany,” you spat, the name bitter on your tongue. “All it took was one glance from her and he’s wrapped around her finger.” 

Steve’s brow furrowed, concern deepening in his eyes. “But it was suppose to be about you guys" 

“Exactly,” you spat, crossing your arms tightly against your chest. Anger simmered beneath your skin, mixed with a thrum of hurt. “It doesn’t matter, though. He’s obviously enjoying himself.” 

The warmth of Steve's embrace enveloped you, but the tension coiled tightly in your chest refused to melt away. He held you there, grounding and steady.

" When did you grow out a scruff?" you poked it.

Steve chuckled, his hand scratching the stubble. “Not sure—I guess just got tired of looking like a kid." He leaned back slightly, brow cocked, his lips curling into a teasing grin. “What do you think? Too much?"

" No it suits you" The door opened and you frowned seeing who it was. 

Eddie stepped out, the neon lights dimming around him, but the glow of confusion lingered in his eyes. Brittany trailed behind him, still radiating confidence, her laughter trailing like a ribbon in the wind. 

“Y/N!”Eddie calls out. " Why did you leave?"

You forced a smile, but your heart twisted at the sight of him emerging from the dim light. Confusion laced his expression, a mixture of guilt and concern.

“Just needed some air,” you replied, keeping your voice steady. Eddie eyes Steve arm around you.

Eddie’s gaze flickered between you and Steve, uncertainty clouding his expression. “Did something happen?”

" Could ask you the same thing" Steve says as he pushes you behind him.

Eddie blinked, taken aback. “What do you mean?” His brow furrowed, confusion deepening. Steve eyes the girl besides Eddie. 

" Her" Steve pointed to Brittany.

Eddie's gaze flicked to Brittany, who stood with a smirk, hand on her hip, reveling in the attention. “What? We were just talking,” he replied, defensiveness creeping into his tone.

“Talking?” You echoed, snorting too. " Yeah, talking" you hissed. 

Brittany rolled her eyes, as if she were somehow above it all. “Is there a problem here?” She stepped forward, her stance wide and unfazed by the tension. 

“ Yeah, he should of been with the person he came on the date with instead of some bimbo." 

Brittany smirked, her confidence showing “Oh, honey, I’m not the one who walked away.” Her words dripped with false sweetness, but her challenge hung heavily in the air. 

Eddie shifted on his feet, and you pursed your lips seeing he wasn't going to say anything. 

" You call me a kid, Munson when you can't even use your mouth to talk" you mumbled. 

Eddie’s mouth opened, then closed again.

" Right" you nodded. 

“Y/N, I didn’t mean to…” he started, but the hesitated. 

" Make me feel like a second choice?" 

Eddie’s brows furrowed, confusion and frustration etching deeper lines on his face. He opened his mouth to object, struggling with his words, but the silence felt heavy between you. 

“C'mon, Y/N. It’s not fair" he says. 

“Not fair? What’s not fair is watching you swoon over someone else while I hang back like a forgotten accessory,” you shot back, arms crossed tighter against your chest. 

Eddie stared, mouth agape, searching for the right response.

" Grow up, Munson" 

His eyes flashed with something—embarrassment mixed with urgency. “You don’t understand,” he pleaded, struggling to find the right words. “I didn’t mean for this to happen. It just—”

“Just what? Just happened? You lost your words as soon as you saw her tits?" 

Eddie flinched at your words, his face flushing crimson. He took a step closer, desperation mingling with frustration in every line of his face. 

“Y/N, this isn’t—” Eddie started, his hands clenching at his sides, but you cut him off.

“Isn’t what? Isn’t fair? Look at you,” you shot back, your voice sharp. “You can't even tell her that you came here with me. On a date. With me. Not her." 

Eddie hesitated, his mouth working silently as if the words tangled in his throat. “I—”

“Just stop.” Your voice firm, the anger spilling over. “I don’t want excuses."

Eddie’s hands fell to his sides as he swallowed hard, eyes darting away. " What do you want me to do?" He asks.

" Just once don't make me feel like the second choice" 

“I wasn’t trying to make you feel that way.” 

" You did, you can go with her. This date is over" you shrugged. 

Eddie shifted back, the realization hitting him like a cold wave. “Y/N—”

“Just… go, Eddie. Enjoy your night,” you said, voice trembling, trying to appear happier for him even as hurt rippled through your chest. 

Eddie steps towards you, " No." 

Eddie stepped toward you, pleading in his eyes. “No,” he repeated, voice low, almost vulnerable. “I don’t want to.” 

You turned away, arms crossed tighter, to ignore him. But he turns you around and cups your face. 

Your breath caught as he cupped your face, warmth radiating from his palms. His brown eyes starting down at you. 

“Y/N, look at me,” he said, his voice a low murmur . “I don’t want this to be over.”

" Then why didn't you push her off her lap when she sat on you? Why didn't you kissed me or something in front of her?" 

Eddie's eyes flared with a mix of determination and regret, his grip on your cheeks gentle yet firm. "Because I didn't see it coming. One minute I'm just being me, and then she's… she’s all over me." 

" The correct words you could of used was to tell her to fuck off" 

Eddie's brow furrowed, a spark igniting in his eyes. “I know! I should have,” he said, desperation creeping into his voice. “I just—everything happened so fast.” 

“Fast?” you scoffed. " You were just too scared to hurt her feelings." 

" I'm not paying attention to her" Eddie starts. " She caught me off guard." 

You pulled away slightly, feeling the heat radiating from his hands as you tried to process his words. “Caught off guard? Is that your excuse now?” 

Eddie’s frustration bubbled to the surface, his brow furrowing deeper. “ Look" Eddie was trying to find words to explain but finding none. He took matter in his hands and kissed you. 

Eddie’s lips brushed against yours, hesitant at first, then deepening as a surge of warmth swept over you. The world around you faded. He continued to kiss you while his hands went into your hair. 

You melted into the kiss, warmth spreading through your body like wildfire. His breath mingled with yours, soft yet electric, awakening every nerve ending. 

He pulls away breathless, " I like you." He kisses your forehead. 

He kissed your nose. " I like you" 

" I'm still here" Brittany mumbles. 

Eddie’s gaze flickered over your shoulder toward Brittany, eyes sparking with an unfamiliar mix of irritation. “Well, that’s sweet,” he said, irritation edging his voice. “But this is between Y/N and me.”

" You walked out with me, sugar" Brittany says. 

Eddie's expression hardened, his frustration flaring. “This isn’t some playground. You made your choice, and I make mine,” he snapped.

" I thought she wasn't your choice" Brittany says, scoffing. 

Eddie’s jaw tightened, his gaze narrowing on Brittany as if she had just crossed an invisible line. “When did I ever say that?” He stepped closer to you, grounding himself in your presence. “Y/N is the one I came here with, the one I like. I don't know you." 

" But you could" Brittany stepped closer to Eddie. 

“I’m not interested, alright? I’m here with Y/N, and that’s where I want to be.” 

" What can she offer you that I can't?" Brittany asks. 

“Y/N doesn’t have to offer me anything. It’s about the connection, the chemistry we have. Something you wouldn’t understand.”

Brittany scoffed, " We can have more chemisty.. even in the bedroom" she smirks. 

Eddie’s jaw clenched, fire flickering in his eyes. “What part of ‘not interested’ didn’t you get?” He stepped forward, effectively putting space between you and Brittany as if to protect you from her unwanted presence. 

Brittany chuckles, " I know you want more. I mean I have a better ass than her" 

“That doesn’t matter. You think you can just waltz in and assume you’ve got me wrapped around your finger?” His voice rose.

" She kinda did" you mumbled. 

Eddie shot you a glance, confusion mingling with frustration. “No, she didn’t. You think I’d let that happen?” 

" You did when she sat in your lap" 

“I didn’t want it to happen, alright? I didn’t know what to do!”

Brittany folded her arms, a smirk plastered on her face.

" It's called pushing her off and telling her to fuck off!" 

“I get it, okay? I messed up. But I’m not going to stand here and let you dictate what I want.” 

" Then what do you want? Because, we keep going in circles." 

“I want you. Just you. Can’t you see that?”

Brittany crossed her arms, unimpressed, leaning back slightly as if she were observing a theatrical performance. “But look how she's still here and you haven't exactly told her to fuck off" you tell him motioning to Brittany who was watching. 

Eddie's gaze flickered between you and Brittany, frustration simmering as he ran a hand through his hair. “Why do you think I’m giving her the cold shoulder?” 

" You're not really, the words you need to use is fuck off to her" 

Eddie clenched his jaw, frustration boiling beneath the surface. “I know!” His hands balled into fists, but then he exhaled sharply, trying to calm in his temper. 

" Then do it!" 

He turned fully toward Brittany, eyes fierce beneath furrowed brows.

“Listen, I’m done with this charade,” he said, his voice rises. 

Brittany raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. “Charade? Honey, I was just keeping the fun going.” Her smile never stops.

“No,” Eddie stepped closer, " I like her" he points to you. " and you" He points to her. “...you need to back off,” he finished, voice steady, grounding himself in his decision.

" What Eddie means..." you stepped towards her" He doesn't need you to flash your fake tits his way, no thank you." 

Brittany’s expression soured, losing her playful facade. “How charming,” she spat, sarcasm coating her words like poison. “Real sophisticated, calling me out like that.” 

" You probably have more done on yourself than have the real thing" you point to yourself. 

Brittany’s eyes narrowed, annoyance flashing across her face. “At least I don't have to rely on some wannabe rockstar to feel good about myself.” 

You stepped forward, jaw tightening, ready to swing. 

Eddie's hand shot out, gripping your wrist before you could take a swing. “Y/N, don’t,” he urged, his voice a steady.

“Why not?” you shot back, glancing at him. " She can't talk to me like that" you add.

Eddie's grip tightened around your wrist, a mix of urgency and concern flashing in his eyes. “Let’s not make this any worse, alright?” 

“You heard what she said,” you snapped. 

Eddie's grip softened, his thumb brushing gentle circles over your wrist, grounding you both. “I did. But fighting her won’t solve anything. Just... stay with me.”

“Why? So I can watch you flirt with her some more?"

Eddie shook his head, frustration etching deeper lines on his forehead. “Flirting? You think I was flirting?" He looked incredulous. “I was just trying to be polite!”

“Polite" you scoffed, " yeah right" you snorted.

" Okay that's it" 

Eddie lifted you effortlessly, settling you against his shoulder. “What are you doing?” you squealed, the surprise stealing the breath from your lungs. 

“You’re overreacting,” he declared, striding confidently toward the car. “ I'm not!" you punched his back.

Eddie grunted, adjusting you with surprising ease, his laughter blending with your protests. “You're definitely overreacting,” he teased, sneaking glances back over his shoulder at Brittany, whose expression morphed into amusement.

“ Don't look back at her!" you slapped his back.

Eddie smirked and kept striding toward the car as if you were just some prize he'd won at a carnival. “I can’t help it if you’re throwing a tantrum,” he teased, shifting you slightly to adjust for comfort.

He opens the door and puts you inside before he leans in and pecks your lips. 

The kiss was light, a fleeting brush, but it sent shivers through you. Eddie pulled back, his eyes searching yours, a mix of challenge and tenderness glimmering in his gaze. 

“Can you just breathe and look at me?" he asks. 

You blinked, trying to collect your thoughts as his eyes searched yours. 

"I'm looking," you replied, " not much to look at.... grandpa.." 

Eddie chuckled, his expression shifting from playful annoyance to genuine pleasure. “Grandpa? That’s rich coming from someone who’s about to throw a tantrum over a little flirtation,” he said. 

You huffed, crossing your arms, " So you admit you were flirting..." 

Eddie raised an eyebrow, the smirk tugging at his lips. "No, no. Misunderstanding, actually. What I meant was—"

“Don’t cover for it,” you interrupted, shaking your head. " Always the flirt with everything that has a pulse." 

Eddie opened his mouth, then closed it, frustration mingling with amusement. “You make it sound like I have a reputation for hitting on everyone.” 

“Please,” you shot back, arms crossed as you leaned against the seat. " Never can get attention from one woman. It has it be more." 

He sat in the driver seat.

Eddie’s brows furrowed, the playful glint in his eyes dimming slightly. “That’s not true,” he argued, his hands gripping the steering wheel. “I like you.

" You said that already" 

“Well, it’s the truth, isn’t it? I wouldn’t have come here with you if I didn’t like you.”

" Maybe I don't like you" 

Eddie’s brows knitted together, surprise flickering across his face. “Seriously?” He leaned back in his seat, the playfulness evaporating. “You can’t be saying that.”

“and why not?" 

“Because I know you like me,” he replied, brow furrowed, voice tinged with worry. “Last time I kissed you, you didn’t exactly push me away.”

" It was just a kiss" you shrugged. 

Eddie's voice took on a softer tone, his brows knitting together as he leaned closer. “Just a kiss? Is that all it meant to you?” 

“Just a moment, Munson.” 

" I'll show you a moment" he growled. 

With one swift movement, he closed the space between you, capturing your lips in a kiss that was rough, deep and full of passion.

Your fingers tangled in his hair, pulling him closer as the world outside faded away, leaving only the two of you. 

His beard rubbed against your mouth making you feel a burn. A burn you liked. 

The kiss deepened, an electrifying rush that stirred something inside you. You could taste hints of cigarettes and something sweet, sweet enough to cloud your thoughts.

Eddie broke away, breathless, his forehead resting against yours. 

" How is that for a moment?" 

The warmth of his forehead against yours felt electric, a tangible reminder of the space that had just shrunk between you. 

You leaned in wanting to kiss him more. 

Instead of retreating, you wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him closer, your lips brushing against his one more time. Eddie chuckled softly, the sound vibrating against your mouth.

“You want more?"

You smiled against his lips, letting the warmth of the moment wrap around you like a familiar blanket. “Maybe a little,” you replied, pulling him closer, your heart racing like it had when you first stepped onto the dance floor. 

Eddie smirks as he flicks his tongue across your lips. 

His breath mingled with yours, the anticipation hanging thick in the air. “Is that all you want, Y/N?” His voice lowered, teasing. 

You leaned back slightly, gauging his expression. “What else would I want?” 

Eddie’s gaze sharpened, curiosity and mischief dancing in his eyes. 

“Say it,” he insisted, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips, as if challenging you to break the teasing barrier between you both.

" I don't know what your talking about" 

Eddie’s smirk widened, his confidence radiating as he leaned back slightly, crossing his arms. “Playing coy now? Oh, come on. I didn’t just kiss you so you could keep me guessing.” 

You rolled your eyes playfully. 

" I don't know" you shrugged, playfully. 

He leaned closer, his breath warm against your cheek. “Playing the game, huh? Alright, let’s change the rules then.” 

“Since when did you become a strategist?” 

" Since you want to keep kissing me" 

" Well I don't wanna kiss you anymore" you lie. 

Eddie raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it. “Sure you don’t,” he teased, leaning back slightly.

" Maybe if you kissed me a lot better, I would tell you" 

Eddie leaned in, his eyes gleaming with challenge. “Is that so? You think you’re the judge of my kissing skills?” 

“Justice must be served, Munson,” you shot back, a grin dancing on your lips. 

"You asked for it" 

" Alright... sugar" you teased using the nickname Brittany called him.

Eddie’s expression shifted, a mix of amusement and irritation flashing across his eyes. “You’re gonna pay for that one, you know.” 

“Oh, I can’t wait,” you said, a playful smile stretching across your face. 

Without anymore words, he leaned over kissing you deeply with his tongue in your mouth. His tongue meets yours for battle. 

His hands tangled in your hair, pulling you closer as if he wanted to imprint this moment into memory. You moaned agaisnt his lips for a moment. 

His hand grips your waist, rubbing circles on the skin he finds there. 

It ends way too soon for your liking. 

" Now what?" He asks. 

You leaned against the seat, breathless, heart pounding like a drum through your chest. " How about we go get a burger and some fries? I have the key to the diner" 

Eddie laughs, " you're playing dangerous, you sure you won't get in trouble with Harrington?" 

"If you won't tell, I won't" 

Eddie tilted his head, a playful sparkle igniting in his eyes. “A covert operation? Count me in. What’s the worst that could happen, right?” 

" Start driving then" 

Eddie chuckled, his fingers drumming against the steering wheel as he revved the engine. “Oh, I’m all in for this late-night escapade. Just call me your partner in crime.” 

" Good thing you're cute, grandpa" you teased. 

Eddie rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the grin creeping onto his face. “Cute, huh? Just don’t expect me to knit you a sweater or anything,” he shot back, shifting into gear as he pulled out onto the road.

" The world isn't ready for any of your sweaters or anything" 

Eddie flipped the radio on, the sound of electric guitars filling the car, drowning out the fading echoes of the bar behind you. 

"You ever wear a sweater?” he asked.

" No I walk around naked" you rolled your eyes answering him sarcastically. 

Eddie burst into laughter. “Now that’s a scene I could get behind,” he joked, winking as he focused back on the road. 

" Hey can I ask a question?" you asked.

Eddie glanced over, curiosity sparking in his brown eyes. “What’s up? You know me, I’m an open book.” He reached to turn down the knob of the radio, the electric guitars fading into a softer melody.

“With your music, do you ever think your actaully going to get big? And if you do, are you going to forget me? us?" 

Eddie tightened his grip on the steering wheel, a look washing over his face. “Wow, that’s a heavy question for a late-night burger run.” 

You leaned back against the seat, arms crossed as the engine's hum filled the air. 

" I just wanted to know, in the back of my mind I think about it" 

Eddie glanced at you, his brow furrowing slightly. “You really think I’d forget someone like you?” His voice softened, genuine concern pooling in his gaze.

“People change, Eddie. Success changes people,” you murmured, your hearteat racing, " you might find someone else." 

Eddie's grip on the steering wheel tightened, his knuckles white under the dim cab light. “Yeah, but I’m not just some dude focusing on fame and fortune. I like where I’m at. I like my friends. I like you. I like our thing. I am not rushing." 

" I'm sorry I asked" 

Eddie glanced over, concern furrowing his brow. “Hey, don’t apologize. You’re allowed to ask questions,” he said, his voice steady. “I just don’t want you thinking I’m some rock star who’d turn his back on people he cares about." 

" .... and what if you know.. get married to some chick with blonde hair or something..." 

Eddie’s laughter erupted, filling the car with a warmth that sliced through the lingering tension. “Married? To a chick with blonde hair?” He shook his head, hands still gripping the wheel as he navigated an empty road. “That's a long road to marriage." 

" Do you ever want to get married?" 

Eddie's brow knitted in thought as he shifted gears, the rumble of the engine filling the silence. “Honestly? I never really thought about it, you know? Too busy daydreaming about rock stardom and selling out arenas.”

You nodded, looking out the window. 

" How about you?" Eddie asks.

You thought for a moment, the streetlights blurring past as you stared into the night. “ yes." 

Eddie’s brow arched, surprise etched across his face. “Really? You want to settle down and wear a white dress, or something?” He glanced at you, curiosity shimmering in his brown eyes.

" Not a white dress exactly, but I want to be someone's wife. I don't know. Might sound silly to you. But I always wanted a wedding, not a big one. Small one." 

Eddie’s smile softened, his gaze steady on the road. “Not silly at all. That sounds nice. A small wedding, just close friends and family?” 

“Exactly,” you replied, your fingers tapping nervously on your knee. “Halloween themed." 

Eddie let out a bark of laughter, his eyes brightening with genuine intrigue. “Now that I can get behind! Imagine the cake—black velvet or maybe a pumpkin spice assassination with bat-shaped sprinkles.” He grinned. 

" Red bloody roses, in a small garden or somwhere where you can see the fall weather." 

Eddie's eyes widened with delight, a broad smile spreading across his face. “That sounds like a scene from a movie! A killer wedding, literally.” He laughed, his excitement infectious.

“Right? I’d have to walk down the aisle to the person I love, having them cry over me a little bit. I would want Steve to walk me down." 

Eddie's laughter faded, replaced by a soft smile that lit up his face. “That sounds perfect. And here I thought all you wanted was a burger after line dancing.”

You elbowed him playfully, your spirits lifting with the conversation.

" Shush you" you glance down at your hands. Eddie covered yours. 

" Any guy would be lucky to marry you.." He says. 

The sincerity in his voice surprised you, sending a warm tingle through your fingers where he held your hand. You glanced up at him, meeting his earnest gaze.

“Are you serious?” you asked, the words slipping from your mouth before you could say them. 

He nods, " and if you do get married... to you know someone else.." he goes quiet. 

“Someone else?” you repeated, " You don't think you'd want to marry me?"

Eddie paused, a flicker of surprise crossing his features. He bit his lip, considering his words. “It’s not that I wouldn’t want to marry you. It’s just…” he hesitated, glancing at the road, then at you, " I have dreams." 

You felt the weight of his words settle in the air like a storm cloud gathering on the horizon. “Dreams?” you echoed softly, the bump in your throat rising with the unspoken tension between you. 

“Yeah.” He sighed, hands in his hair, " I really want to make music, travel the world..." 

“It sounds incredible,” you replied, trying to mask the heaviness that pressed against your chest. “But what does that mean for us?” 

" Let's take it one day at a time" 

" I don't want to hold you back..." 

Eddie’s gaze softened, his hand still enveloping yours as he navigated the winding road. “You’re not holding me back. You’re part of this ride, Y/N. The music, the chaos, all of it. I want it all but in life sometimes not everything happens.." 

You stared at him, watching the shadows dance across his face as he focused on the road, each bump in the pavement causing a slight jolt. 

You bite your lip knowing you had connections to the music industry from your parents. 

"You know," you said, your voice soft but deliberate, "my parents have connections in the music industry. If you ever need help—"

Eddie cut you off, his grip on the wheel tightening. “Y/N, no. But when were you going to tell me that?" 

" Well it's not something I talk about after losing both my parents" 

Eddie’s eyes softened, a mixture of regret and understanding washing over his expression. “Y/N…” he started, the weight of unsaid words hovering in the air. 

" I'll get you a connection, Eddie" 

Eddie’s grip on the steering wheel relaxed slightly, his eyes flickering to you with a mixture of vulnerability and admiration. “You really mean that?” 

You nodded, your heart pounding. “I just want to see you succeed. You deserve the world and the world deserves to know Eddie Munson." 

Eddie's expression shifted, something between disbelief and appreciation flickering in his brown eyes. “You have no idea how much that means to me,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. 

“You’re not just some rockstar to me, you're someone I care about.. someone..." 

The words hung in the air, thick with unspoken feelings. Eddie's gaze flickered toward you, searching for the weight of what you hadn’t finished saying. 

“Someone…” he prompted, his voice softer now, inviting.

“Someone I like... a lot" you turned to face the window as he parks in the parking lot of the diner. 

The car came to a stop, the engine's rumble diving down into silence. You sat in the stillness of the car, the engine fading into a whisper as Eddie turned to face you, his expression caught somewhere between hope and uncertainty. 

“You like me a lot?” he echoed. " Let's just go inside" you were about to open the door when he reached and closed it. 

“Not so fast,” Eddie said, his voice low but steady as he leaned towards you, his intensity drawing you in. 

“You can’t just throw that ‘I like you… a lot’ into the air and expect me to let it linger." 

" You can" you went to open the door, and again he shut it. 

“Seriously?” you shot him a look, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. 

" We're talking about this" Eddie says. 

You crossed your arms, ready to bolt from the car, but Eddie shifted forward, his gaze locking onto yours with unexpected intensity. 

“Y/N, you can’t just drop that bomb and expect me to pretend like it didn’t explode!” He says. 

" I said what I said" you shrugged. 

" There is more to it, isn't?" He asks.

Eddie leaned closer, his gaze piercing yet soft, urging you to unveil the thoughts you buried within. 

“Y/N…” His voice dropped to a whisper, heavy with expectation.

" Eddie.." 

Eddie leaned closer, his brow furrowed as if he could pry the truth out of you with sheer determination. “What are you thinking?”

You hesitated, heart racing as his earnest gaze held yours. 

“I just… I don’t think I wanna say" 

Eddie’s expression shifted, concern etching deeper lines across his forehead. “You don’t want to? Or you’re scared to?” 

You looked away, tracing the seams of your jeans with your eyes. “Maybe a bit of both,”

" Hey, it's me" Eddie says, " just us here." 

His voice wrapped around you like a warm blanket, grounding you amidst the whirlpool of thoughts inside your head. 

“C’mon, Y/N." you look at him and this time he sees the struggle in your eyes, the tears that are coming. 

Eddie’s eyes softened, and he reached out, his fingers gently brushing away a stray tear that escaped down your cheek. “Hey, it’s okay. Whatever it is, you can tell me. I promise I won't judge.” 

You took a deep breathe, shaking your head. 

Eddie’s thumb lingered on your cheek, his brown eyes searching yours. “Please, Y/N. Just be honest with me.”

“I...” You hesitated, feeling the weight of everything pressing down. “What if I told you that I was afraid?"

Eddie's brow furrowed deeper, concern flooding his features as he leaned in closer. “Afraid of what?”

“Afraid of losing you.” Your voice trembled, the admission hanging in the air like a fragile thread, ready to snap. " If you leave..." 

" Because you have dreams Eddie, to be this rockstar" 

Eddie's gaze softened, his brow furrowing. “Y/N, I know it seems like a wild ride, but I don’t plan to leave anyone behind. You’re a part of my journey, whether you realize it or not.”

“But you don't get it" 

“I do get it. You think I’m just gonna vanish once I get a taste of success?” He shook his head, the frustration brewing in his voice. “That’s not who I am.”

" No you don't get it" Your voice wavered, uncertainty creeping into your words. “You might think that now, but how will it feel when the world suddenly wants a piece of Eddie Munson? The fame, the attention... What happens when someone else catches your eye? What if someone else loves you... before.." 

" Before what? " Eddie asks. 

“Before I can even express what you mean to me,” you whispered, your voice trembling. You looked down, unable to meet his gaze, the weight of your fears unbearable. 

“Hey.” Eddie’s tone became even softer. “You need to breathe and two, I'm right here." 

His words washed over you like a soothing wave, but the tension in your chest tightened. You met his gaze, seeing the sincerity behind those warm brown eyes, but doubt still tangled within your heart.

“I’m afraid I’ll become just another name just like a song" 

Eddie’s expression shifted, his gaze unwavering as he turned fully to face you. “You think you’re just a name to me? Y/N, you’re so much more than that,” he says.

" What do you mean?" 

" I...I.." Eddie gulps.

He paused, taking a steady breath as if grounding himself amid the emotions swirling in the confined space of the car. His fingers lingered on your wrist, a reminder of his presence. 

“I think... I..I" he runs a hand down his face as he tries to find the words. 

“I think I’m falling for you,” he said finally, the admission spilling into the air like a fragile confession. 

" Say it again" 

Eddie’s breath caught, uncertainty flashing in his eyes. “I think I’m falling for you.” 

“Really?” The word slipped from your lips, a mix of disbelief and hope fluttering in your chest. 

“Yeah.” Eddie searched your face, " Oh Eddie" you tugged on his jacket pulling him close as you kissed him. 

Eddie’s lips melded against yours, warmth enveloping you both as an electric pulse surged through the air between you. His taste lingered on your tongue, a mixture of sweet anticipation and shared longing. 

His hands cradled your face as he kisses you back. You pulled away. 

" I think I'm falling for you too" 

" You mean it?" He asks. 

" Yes" 

“Seriously? You’re not messing with me, right?”

You shook your head, " No." 

" That's why I'm afraid when you leave.. you'll stop falling for me." 

Eddie’s expression shifted, a shadow of uncertainty crossing his features. “Y/N, I’d never stop falling for you. That’s not how it works.” 

" No? There will be much prettier girls, you'll have them left and right and I'll be here.." 

Eddie shook his head vigorously, a mix of frustration and disbelief dancing in his eyes. “You think I’d trade what we have for a pretty face? That’s not how it works. You’re not just another girl, Y/N.” 

" Why do I feel like I always comes second then? '

Eddie's brow furrowed, a mix of frustration and sincerity shining in his eyes. “Because of tonight? I get it, I do! But don’t let one mess-up define what this is between us.” 

" Yeah when some girl hung up on you and sits on your lap while you look like a deer in headlights" 

Eddie ran a hand through his hair, frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. “Y/N, I froze. Like I’ve said, it caught me off guard. I wasn’t prepared for it, okay?” His voice rose.

You held his gaze, the tightness in your chest refusing to fade. “You didn’t even push her off. You just stood there.”

Eddie closed his eyes, breathing through the frustration. “I get it. I messed up. But I'm here and I told you how I feel.." 

You tilted your head, searching his eyes for that flicker of sincerity. “And what if it happens again? What if you freeze next time with someone else?”

Eddie sighed, simmering frustration leaking from his every word like steam. “Then I will deal with it, but I will not break your heart." 

" Eddie I.." He doesn't let you finish the sentence as he kisses you. 

His lips pressed against yours, strong and fervent, a silent promise coating the air between you like an electric current.

Eddie pulled back, breathless, " I won't hurt you. I'll chase after you if it's my last breath I take." 

" That's huge, you have to put meaning behind that" 

Eddie’s gaze sharpened, determination flooding his features. “I mean it. If it ever feels like you’re slipping away, I’ll fight for what we have. "

He takes your hand in his and kisses your fingers. 

" Promise" 

[sweet-villain]

Back from comic con weekend, will be writing again soon

[sweet-villain]

I went to comic con today and had the best day ever. I met Orlando Bloom, Matt Smith, the voice actors of Baldurs Gate 3 and a few others.

Highlight of today was all of them loved my cosplay.

[sweet-villain]

I’m sorry if I have not posted. It’s comic con week, and I’m there this weekend so I’ve been anxious about cosplaying and meeting my faves.

Fee free to ask me about it or tomorrow

[djotime]

pooks :(

[joesquinns]

so soft pt. 132