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Parasite pt. 6

word count: 28,042

Fandom: Stranger Things Pairing: Eddie Munson + Wayne Munson x Male!Experiment!Reader Pronouns: He/Him Relationship: Familial Occupation: High School Student Ability: Venom

This ability was forced upon the character by the scientists within the laboratory similar to that within Hawkins, fascinated by the creatures within the Upside Down, they managed to merge some of it within the character and he was bestowed with being the host of a lesser version of the Mind Flayer. This part of the Mind Flayer was so insignificant that it wasn’t able to properly take over its host body, instead it relied on its hosts body to keep itself alive. In return this part of the Mind Flayer was able to to reinforce their body beyond its natural human capabilities. This granted the character superhuman abilities but the character was burdened with needing to keep the Mind Flayer fed, giving them an enormous appetite and crave anything to keep it satisfied. They are also, like that of many residents within the Upside Down, gifted the ability to open gates to and from the Upside Down and the real world, but it takes a lot of energy out of them.

Keys:

[M/N]: Male Name [H/C]: Hair Color [E/C]: Eye Color [N/N]: Nickname

Warnings: child abuse, alcohol consumption, drug use, vulgar language, violence, eating disorder/anorexia/bulimia, cannibalism, vomiting.

again, had to split this season into three parts because this post could not hold it all together.

that is all.

"Parasite" pt. 1, pt. 2, pt. 3, pt. 4, pt. 5

[the next day]

"Hey, [N/N]. Where's the cereal? I know you had it last, you glutton."

...

"[N/N]? Are you seriously still asleep?"

...

"Are you just ignoring me, asshole?"

Eddie raised a brow when he got no response- hell, not even a groan.

[M/N] was a heavy sleeper. After years of waking up to the faintest sounds, he’d somehow grown comfortable enough to sleep straight through Eddie’s horrendous snoring. Eddie hadn’t expected an answer out of him, but it was still surprising that [M/N] hadn’t stirred at all. Eddie leaned his head out from the kitchenette, squinting toward the pullout bed. All he saw was a lump under the blankets. It was boiling inside the trailer. Every window was open, and several fans were running, pushing the hot summer air around. Sure, [M/N]’s body temperature ran abnormally cold, but there was no way anyone could survive under that many layers right now.

"[N/N]? You alive under there?" he shut the cabinet he’d been digging through and stepped out of the kitchenette, walking over to the pullout bed where [M/N] lay. Standing over him, Eddie poked the lump and it earned him a weak groan.

Good. Still alive.

Eddie tapped his foot against the carpet for a moment before finally grabbing the blankets and tugging them down. All he could see at first was [M/N]’s hair, his face buried into the pillows. Eddie sighed and reached forward to shake his shoulder- but his hand brushed across the exposed skin of [M/N]’s neck. He froze- his skin was slick with sweat. Not the normal kind you’d expect from someone overheating in the middle of summer. This was different, it was cold- a cold sweat. Eddie quickly pushed the hair away from [M/N]’s face, and his eyes widened. [M/N]’s face was flushed bright red. His breathing came in soft, uneven pants as sweat beaded along his forehead and temples.

"Jesus-" Eddie yanked the blankets further down and saw the way [M/N] had curled in on himself, eyes squeezed tightly shut, his hands clutching at his chest "W-Wayne! Get in here!" Eddie shouted.

"What's all this shouting about?" Wayne calls, exiting the bathroom in confusion "Is [M/N] still asleep?" he raised a brow when he saw the panic on Eddie's face as he pointed down to [M/N]'s unconscious body.

"It's [M/N]! I think he's sick." Wayne's eyes widened as he quickly came over to where [M/N] was, grimacing at the sight of his boy curled up into a ball and shivering as if it wasn't summer.

"[M/N]." he starts, kneeling down while snapping his fingers to get his attention "Boy, are you alright?" he presses the back of his hand against [M/N]'s forehead and winced when it felt like he touched a hot iron.

"I haven't seen him like this since... well, since he was a kid!" Eddie exclaims but quickly shushes himself when [M/N] whined, trying to burying his face in his pillow "God, he came back in the dead of the night during the worst of that storm. Maybe that's why he's sick." Wayne's frown deepened as he reached for [M/N]'s face, cupping his cheeks and lifting his head up and noticing how he couldn't even lift his head.

"Boy, why were you driving around at night? You know I don't like you driving around when it rains." [M/N] gasped as he tried to open his eyes, struggling to keep them open before giving up and squeezing them shut and leaning into Wayne's hands.

"I-I... I didn't mean too..." he starts, already slurring his words as his chest heaves "I was just- I just-" Wayne and Eddie's eyes widened when they saw his face start to turn pale as his breathing quickened, the telltale signs that he was going to throw up.

"E-Eddie- Eddie!" the boy was already scrambling for something, tossing things around just as [M/N]'s face turned green. When he managed to find something, [M/N] quickly snatched it from his hands and threw up about as violently as he did back at the mall. Eddie could never really handle the sight of [M/N] vomiting- let alone the smell, so he stepped out of the trailer to get some fresh air "What did you eat?" [M/N] shook his head as Wayne took the bucket from his hands and placed it on the floor just as [M/N] collapsed back onto his bed, whimpering softly as the pain overwhelmed him.

"Nothing! I ate nothing...!" Wayne narrowed his eyes on the way [M/N] emphasized himself, tilting his head a little.

"Venom?" he whispered softly, a low grumble came from [M/N]'s chest as the symbiote emerged "What did you two eat?" Venom shook his head.

"We ate Russian soldiers." Wayne squinted his eyes, what? "We found Russian soldiers at the Starcourt Mall and we ate them. But that was not the cause of [M/N] falling ill." Wayne was going to ignore the fact that there were currently Russian soldiers in Hawkins Indiana, he was more concerned for [M/N] at the moment.

"Okay, then what was it?"

"Do you remember when [M/N] had an "episode" a few days okay?" Wayne nodded his head, of course he did "We believe that these Russian soldiers possibly opened another gate, but we do not understand why [M/N] is reacting so violently. Not just migraines or nosebleeds, but also extremely bad nausea."

"Should... should I be worried?" Venom grumbled softly, glancing back to where [M/N] was deathly pale and was now clutching his stomach.

"I believe you should get him checked out. Whatever those Russians did, it is bad. I've never seen [M/N] react as badly as he is now, and I worry for him." seeing the symbiote be genuinely worried for [M/N] was rare, it went so far as to Venom nudging his head gently against [M/N]'s face "I am able to heal broken bones, cure diseases and flush out harmful substances from his body. But whatever this is- I am at my limit."

"And you think human medicine could help when you could not?"

"Something is better than nothing, no matter how miniscule." Wayne rubbed the back of his neck before glancing back down at [M/N] who was writhing in pain.

"... mm, he's not going to like this." Venom laughed.

"He's going to have to suck it up." Wayne pursed his lips when Venom snickered as he retreated back into [M/N], he shook his head and gently brushed the hair out of [M/N]'s face.

"[M/N]..." Wayne spoke softly, his knuckles brushing gently against his temple as he waited for some kind of response. "Son?" he tried instead, and that seemed to do the trick. [M/N]’s eyes fluttered open, glassy and unfocused. Wayne frowned when he saw them reddening, tears already pooling as he tried to hold them back.

"W-Wayne..." he breathed. Wayne exhaled slowly.

"I hate to say this, boy… but we need to take you to the hospital." panic flooded [M/N]’s face as he shook his head, ignoring the way the motion made his migraine spike. His breathing hitched, uneven and sharp, as his trembling hands shot up to grab Wayne’s wrists.

"No… no, no, no- please." he choked out "No hospital, I beg you. I hate the hospital!" the tears spilled over now, running hot down his flushed face as his grip tightened "I hate the white rooms- the people in white! Don’t take me back to the labs!" his voice cracked, breaking apart as his panic spiraled "I’m sorry for lying- I promise I won’t lie again, just please don’t take me back, please-" Wayne’s chest tightened.

This wasn’t just fear. It was something deeper- something ingrained. [M/N]’s fever, mixed with sheer panic, had twisted his thoughts until there was no difference between a hospital and the place that hurt him. And Wayne… Wayne couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen him like this- so terrified, so small. For a moment, he didn’t move. Just sat there, letting the boy hold on to him like he was the only thing keeping him grounded. Wayne took a steady breath before gently prying [M/N]’s hands from his wrists. He didn’t give him time to pull away- just slid his hands to his shoulders, guiding him upright and pulling him into a firm embrace. [M/N] kept crying, but this time it was muffled against Wayne’s shoulder, his fingers weakly twisting into the back of his flannel.

"I know, son… I know." Wayne’s voice was low and steady as his hand moved in slow circles across his back "I wouldn’t be suggesting the hospital if we had any other choice." he paused, choosing his words carefully "But Venom said we don’t. He’s struggling to keep whatever’s making you sick under control… and it sounds like he’s hitting his limit." [M/N] let out a soft, broken whimper.

"B-But hospitals… they remind me of the labs…" he whispered. Wayne nodded, even though he couldn’t see it.

"I know they do." his hand pressed more firmly between [M/N]’s shoulders, grounding him "That’s why we’re not having you admitted. We’re not leaving you there. We’re just going in for a checkup, that’s all. I promise." [M/N] sniffled, his grip tightening for a moment like he wanted to argue- but the words never came "We don’t know what’s wrong," Wayne continued gently. "And if Venom can’t figure it out, then we need someone who might. Just a doctor. Just long enough to help you feel better." for a second, [M/N] held on tighter then the tension drained out of him and he sagged against Wayne.

"... okay." Wayne let out a quiet breath of relief, one hand coming up to pat his head.

"Atta boy." he pulled back slightly, his chest tightening at the sight of him- pale, flushed, eyes glassy as he wiped at his face. For a moment, Wayne didn’t see the teenager in front of him- just a scared kid trying to hold himself together "I promise we won’t stay long. Just enough for them to tell us how to help you." [M/N]’s shoulders trembled, his bottom lip quivering- but he nodded. Eddie stepped into the trailer just as things had started to settle. [M/N] had calmed down, though he still looked like he might collapse at any second, barely managing to sit upright as Wayne slipped a thermometer into his mouth.

"So, what’s the plan?" Eddie asked, crossing his arms as he leaned in over Wayne’s shoulder to check the reading and he winced "Jesus… that’s, what, a hundred?" [M/N] had always been prone to getting sick when he was younger- but when it hit, it hit hard.

"We’re going to the hospital." Wayne said, pulling the thermometer out and setting it aside "We won’t be long. Just enough to figure out what’s wrong and how to treat it properly." Eddie blinked, then let out a short laugh, dragging a hand through his hair.

"You actually convinced him to go?" he said, glancing at [M/N] "You remember how hard it used to be to get him there when he was a kid?" he snorted, and [M/N]’s face flushed red- whether from the fever or embarrassment, it was hard to tell "Man, we practically had to drag you in kicking and screaming." Eddie added with a crooked grin. [M/N] groaned faintly, turning his face away. Those “sick days” had never really been normal- not when his body had been going through withdrawal, struggling to adjust to a completely different diet. It had been rough back then.

And judging by how he looked now?

This wasn’t much better.

"I can come with. He's always more comfortable when he isn't alone, and I know you're going to be doing the talking while he's all docile." Wayne rubbed the back of his neck.

"You don't mind? I wouldn't want to take time out of your day." Eddie made a noise, waving his hand to dismiss Wayne's words.

"Psh, it's nothing. Besides, it's either that or you have to suffer alone with this guppy's bitching and whining." he let out an oof when [M/N] threw a pillow at him, it was less forceful than usual due to his lack in strength and energy "What? It's true!" Eddie picked the fallen pillow and threw it back at [M/N], Wayne shook his head with a laugh.

"He's right. Though, you'd probably be whining more than bitching." Eddie snapped his fingers when [M/N] did, in fact, whine.

Wayne left [M/N] in Eddie’s care to empty the bucket of vomit, so while he was gone, Eddie did what he could to clean him up. He wiped the sweat from his skin and grabbed some fresh clothes, stepping away briefly to gather a few more things. When he came back, [M/N] had managed to sit up at the edge of the bed, though just barely. His head kept dipping forward, his body swaying like he couldn’t hold himself upright for more than a few seconds.

Eddie paused for a moment. It felt like déjà vu. Like he was taking care of the same kid from years ago- the one who wouldn’t meet his eyes, who flinched at sudden movement, who looked like the world was just a little too much.

"I can dress myself…" [M/N] muttered weakly.

"Yeah, I can see that." Eddie snorted, already pulling his sweat-soaked shirt over his head and tossing it into the corner. [M/N] didn’t argue after that. Instead, he just raised his arms without a word, making it easier. Eddie huffed softly but didn’t comment. He helped him into a clean shirt, deciding to leave him in his sweatpants instead of bothering with jeans. Comfort over anything else right now. By the time Wayne came back, already slipping on his jacket and grabbing his keys, Eddie had moved on to gathering a few other things. He picked up [M/N]’s walkman and flipped through his tapes before selecting one. Eddie moved back to his side and helped him to his feet, steadying him when he wobbled, then gently set the headphones over his ears. A soft click, and the tape started to play- Frank Sinatra filling the silence with something slow and soothing.

[M/N] tended to stick to classical or softer music, but Sinatra was one of the few he always came back to.

Eddie adjusted the headphones slightly, making sure they sat right.

"Figure you could use something to drown the world out." he said quietly, chuckling softly when [M/N] leaned into his side.

The drive to the hospital was miserable- well, for [M/N] it was. He kept shifting between resting his head against the cool window and leaning heavily into Eddie, groaning and whining about the pain. "That's Life" played softly through his headphones, which felt pretty fucking ironic. At this point, just put a bullet in his head and end his misery- though Wayne would probably be pretty damn sad if he died. It didn’t help that whatever Venom was doing beneath his skin to ease the pain only seemed to make everything feel more intense. Eddie let out a grunt when [M/N] suddenly grabbed his hand, his grip so tight it felt like bone might snap.

"Jesus- trying to break my hand?" he joked. Wayne shot him a look, but [M/N] only let out a shaky breath, his grip loosening slightly.

By the time they reached the hospital, Eddie had to drag [M/N] out of the truck- not because he didn’t want to walk, but because he couldn’t. His legs just wouldn’t hold him up. Eddie liked to think he was strong- he hauled amps and speakers around for gigs at the Hideout- but [M/N] was a different story. The guy was heavy as hell. Eddie was panting by the time they reached reception, ignoring the looks from the people waiting as he stood behind Wayne. [M/N] was draped over his back, technically standing but leaning most of his weight onto him. His face was buried in Eddie’s hair, fingers weakly clutching at his shirt.

"The whole Munson family! Boy, it’s been a while." the nurse, Doris, smiled as she looked at the three of them "Last time I saw you folks, your youngest was barely taller than this desk." she added with a soft chuckle- though it faded quickly at the look on Wayne’s face.

"He’s the reason we’re here." Wayne said, gesturing behind him. Doris leaned to the side, peering at [M/N]. Her brows lifted- then her expression dropped into concern when Eddie pulled [M/N]’s head back just enough to show his face "He’s been like this since last night. We’re not sure if it’s something he ate or something he picked up." Wayne explained, she shook her head immediately.

"That just won’t do. I’ll have him seen right away." Eddie scoffed quietly as she started flipping through charts, clearly trying to find an available doctor as fast as possible.

"Jesus… it’s like they’re not even trying to hide that you’re their favorite." [M/N] made a weak sound, lifting his hand like he was going to flip Eddie off- but it barely made it halfway before dropping back to his side.

After years of hospital visits, most of the nurses- and a few doctors- had grown fond of him. They remembered the scared little kid who used to hide behind Wayne’s legs at the mere sight of a doctor, skittish as a stray animal. And now? Now he was a grown teenager… who still hated doctors. And needles. Of course, some of the staff who had been there the night he was first brought in still remembered the truth- that [M/N] wasn’t Wayne’s biological son. Just a kid Wayne had accidentally hit with his truck on his way to work. But they also remembered something else. They remembered the way Wayne showed up every single day afterward. The way he sat with him, talked to him, waited for him to trust again.

That wasn’t something anyone forgot.

"If you could take a seat, I'll have a doctor come out to see you soon." Eddie and Wayne helped [M/N] into a seat before collapsing on either side of him. Wayne would occasionally press his hand to [M/N]'s forehead to see if his temperature settled, well, it was better than back at the trailer. Thanks to the cool AC of the hospital it was lowering [M/N]'s temperature, slowly but surely. Was this why the kid was always at the ice cream shop? He remembered on some occasions Venom mentioning that they like the cold and heat hurts them- him specifically.

"Are you feeling better?" [M/N]'s head tipped back, eyes staring up at white ceiling above him.

"My head feels like it's going to explode..." Eddie gently pats his shoulder.

"That bad, huh? Does your stomach hurt?"

"Not in the sense that I want to throw up." he takes a deep breath, closing his eyes to settle the unease he was feeling "I'm hungry but I know if I eat something I'm just going to throw it all back up." Eddie rubs his back this time.

"Maybe when we get back home Wayne can make you some soup." both [M/N] and Wayne give Eddie a look.

"Thanks for offering up Wayne's help, Eddie." he bowed his head.

"No problem. Love giving my support from a distance."

"I hate you."

"Love you too, cous." [M/N] just shook his head.

They didn't have to wait long- perks of being liked by the staff and being somewhat of a regular- [M/N] was settled into a room. Wayne and Eddie were told to wait outside first while the doctors ran their tests, and [M/N] could feel his unease grow without either of them by his side.

The hospital room felt too bright.

Everything was white- walls, sheets, the curtains half-drawn around the bed. The sharp scent of antiseptic clung to the air, making it hard to breathe, or maybe that was just him. [M/N] lay back against the stiff mattress, jaw clenched as another wave of pain rolled through him. It wasn’t as violent as before, but it lingered- deep, aching, like something under his skin didn’t sit right. Machines hummed quietly around him. A nurse adjusted the cuff around his arm, the velcro scratching faintly against his skin before it tightened.

"Try to stay still for me." she said gently. He didn’t respond, he kept his eyes stayed fixed on the ceiling.

Stay still.

Yeah. Sure.

Another nurse stood at his other side, tying off a band around his arm. [M/N]’s fingers twitched as she tapped lightly against the inside of his elbow, searching for a vein.

"You’re a bit dehydrated." she murmured "This might pinch." he almost laughed at that. Pinch? His hand closed into a fist when he felt the needle slide in. He didn’t flinch because of the pain, but rather the memory of being poked and prodded at like a fucking guinea pig. Dark red filled the vial quickly, one after another as they swapped tubes with practiced ease.

"Heart rate’s still elevated." someone said from near the monitor.

"Temperature’s high too. One hundred point three."

Figures.

[M/N] swallowed thickly, his throat dry. His chest rose a little faster than normal, but he forced himself to keep it steady. To look normal.

To be normal.

"You feeling dizzy at all?" the nurse asked.

"…no." he muttered, even though the room felt like it tilted slightly.

A lie. A bad one.

They didn’t call him out on it.

The blood draw finished, cotton pressed to his arm before it was taped down. The cuff loosened, and the nurse gave him a small nod before stepping away.

"Alright, we’re going to run a few more checks." another voice said- older, calmer. A doctor.

[M/N] didn’t look at him.

A cold stethoscope pressed against his chest, then moved- slow, methodical.

"Deep breath." he inhaled. It hit halfway through. His chest stuttered, breath catching as a sharp pain flickered through him. Not enough to make a sound—but enough that his fingers curled slightly into the sheets. Venom stirred from beneath his skin.

We do not like this place.

You suggested this.

[M/N] exhaled slowly through his nose.

"I’m going to check your reflexes." the doctor continued, like nothing was wrong. A small hammer tapped just below his knee. His leg jerked automatically. Again. Other side. The doctor nodded then pulled something from his coat. A light flashed briefly in his eyes “Follow my finger.” [M/N] did- left, right, up- though his focus wavered for a split second before snapping back "Any headaches?" the doctor asked.

"…yeah."

"On a scale of one to ten?" he paused.

"…six."

Another lie.

The doctor hummed softly, jotting something down.

"Alright. We’re going to start you on some fluids and medication to help with the fever and pain. We’ll keep you here for observation while we wait on your labs."

Observation.

[M/N]’s jaw tightened.

"No-" he started, voice rough. The doctor glanced at him.

"Just for a few hours." he clarified "We’re not admitting you overnight unless something changes." a pause. [M/N] swallowed, then gave a stiff nod.

"…fine." The IV was inserted shortly after. Another needle, another tube. Cool fluid began to drip into his system, spreading slowly through his arm.

It felt… strange.

Venom shifted again, quieter this time.

It is… tolerable.

[M/N] let his head fall back against the pillow, eyes closing briefly.

Footsteps. The soft rustle of curtains.

Then silence.

Time passed- he wasn’t sure how much. Long enough for the edge of the pain to dull slightly. Long enough for the fever to stop clawing quite so hard at his body. The door creaked open and [M/N]’s eyes flickered toward it just as two familiar figures stepped inside. Wayne first with Eddie right behind him and they both stopped short at the sight of him. [M/N] pushed himself up a little straighter in the bed, like that would somehow make this look less… bad.

"Hey." he muttered out weakly. Wayne didn’t say anything at first. His eyes moved over [M/N] carefully- taking in the IV, the monitor, the pale look on his face. Eddie, for once, didn’t have anything smart to say either.

"…you look like shit, man." he finally muttered, quieter than usual. [M/N] huffed faintly.

"Yeah. Thanks." Wayne stepped closer, resting a hand lightly against the bed rail.

"They run their tests?" he asked. [M/N] nodded once.

"Yeah. Blood stuff. Reflexes. The usual." he shrugged one shoulder "Said they’re keeping me for a few hours." Wayne exhaled slowly, some of the tension in his shoulders easing at that.

"Alright. That’s alright." Eddie dragged a chair over, dropping into it with a soft scrape against the floor. He leaned forward, elbows on his knees, studying [M/N] a little too closely.

"Did they... say anything?" [M/N] shook his head as he fell back onto the bed.

"No. They just did their tests then disappeared." he pinched the bridge of his nose "I'm sure it's nothing... too bad." now it was Wayne's turn to rub his forehead.

"That ain't helping your case, boy." [M/N] let out a sigh and decided to keep his mouth shut- he'd probably be digging himself an even bigger grave if he said anything else.

The wait for his results felt too long and [M/N] was beginning to feel restless. [M/N] moved so he sat on the edge of the hospital bed, shoulders slumped, one hand gripping the thin mattress beneath him like it was the only thing keeping him grounded. His skin still glistened with a cold sweat, his shirt clinging uncomfortably to his back. Every now and then, a tremor ran through him- subtle, but there. Wayne stood close by, arms crossed tight over his chest, watching him like he might drop at any second. Eddie had gotten up and now lingered near the foot of the bed, pacing in short bursts before stopping again, dragging a hand through his hair.

A knock came at the door before it opened.

The doctor stepped in, clipboard in hand, expression calm but focused.

"Alright." he said, glancing between them before settling on [M/N] "I’ve had a look at your vitals and your initial results." [M/N] didn’t look up, his fingers flexed slightly against the mattress. Wayne stepped forward.

"What’s wrong with him?" the doctor exhaled softly, flipping a page on the clipboard.

"His temperature was elevated when he came in- just over a hundred. Heart rate’s high, breathing’s a little irregular. He’s also showing signs of systemic stress- full-body pain, sensitivity, that kind of thing." Eddie frowned.

"Yeah, no kidding. He looked like he was dying." Wayne shot him a look, but the doctor just nodded slightly.

"I understand. And I won’t downplay it- it’s serious. But right now, we don’t have a clear cause." [M/N]’s jaw tightened faintly.

"What do you mean, no cause?" Wayne pressed.

"It means," the doctor said evenly "his symptoms don’t point cleanly to one condition. It could be an aggressive infection, possibly viral. It could also be a reaction to something environmental- chemical exposure, maybe." at that, [M/N]’s fingers twitched. Eddie noticed.

"…Chemical?" the doctor gave a small shrug.

"It’s a possibility. Especially if he’s been somewhere industrial, or around unfamiliar substances." Wayne glanced at [M/N].

"Boy…?" [M/N] shook his head faintly.

"I’m fine." he muttered, though his voice was rough. The doctor didn’t look convinced.

"There’s also something else." he added "Some of his symptoms suggest neurological involvement. His body’s overreacting- pain signals, temperature regulation. It’s like his system’s stuck in overdrive." Eddie blinked in confusion.

"So… what, his body’s just freaking out for no reason?"

"Not for no reason." the doctor corrected "For a reason we haven’t identified yet." [M/N] let out a quiet, strained breath, one hand coming up to press against his temple. Venom’s voice flickered faintly in the back of his mind- tense, watchful. Wayne noticed the movement immediately.

"You alright?" [M/N] nodded, though it was delayed.

"Yeah." the doctor stepped a little closer, tone softening.

"Right now, our priority is stabilizing him." he said "We’ve given him fluids, something to bring the fever down, and something mild for the pain. I’d like to keep him here for observation- at least overnight." [M/N]’s head snapped up.

"No." Wayne frowned.

"Son-" he shook his head.

"I’m not staying here." [M/N] said, more firmly this time. His breathing picked up again, shoulders tensing "You said only for a few hours- and you promised I wouldn't admitted." Eddie glanced between them.

"[M/N]…" the doctor raised a hand slightly, calm but steady.

"I understand hospitals can be uncomfortable, but given the severity of your symptoms-"

"I said I’m fine." [M/N] snapped, a bit sharper than he meant to. Silence fell for a moment. Wayne studied him, then looked back at the doctor.

"He don’t do well in places like this." the doctor nodded slowly, taking that in.

"… Alright,” he said after a pause "I won’t force admission. But I’m not comfortable sending him home without precautions." he flipped his clipboard closed. "You’ll need to monitor him closely. If his fever spikes again, if his breathing worsens, if he becomes disoriented- you bring him back immediately. No waiting." Wayne nodded his head as the doctor continued "We’ll send you home with medication- something to manage the fever and pain. He needs rest, fluids, and as little stress as possible." Eddie huffed quietly.

"Yeah, good luck with that." [M/N] flipped him off as the doctor gave a faint, tired smile. The doctor gave them all one final look then nodded once before turning and stepping out of the room. The door clicked shut and a silence lingered for a beat. Eddie exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck "Well… that was reassuring. We don’t know what’s wrong with you, but it’s bad. Great." Wayne didn’t respond, he was still watching [M/N].

"…You sure you’re alright?" he asked quietly. [M/N] swallowed, gaze dropping back to his hands.

"Yeah." he muttered, but his fingers were still trembling.

And somewhere deep inside, something still burned.

About another half hour passes as a few nurses came back into the room to do a couple more tests on him with Wayne and Eddie present this time. [M/N] held Wayne's hand this time as he hid his face in the older man's shoulder, while Eddie comforted him by pressing his hand against [M/N]'s back, rubbing up and down as the nurses injected him with meds that would bring down his fever. Sure, the needle wasn't piercing his skin and was instead getting injected into the IV line, but just the mere sight of it sent him spiraling back down trauma lane.

When he was stable enough they removed the IV line and helped him to his feet, he was sat out on one of the chairs as Wayne did the paperwork while Eddie went to take a leak. He had a cup of water in his head, head tipped back and pressed against the wall behind him as he waited for either two to come back so they could leave. He could faintly hear a pair of shoes approaching him, or maybe it was someone that just wanted to sit down and the only spare seat was beside him.

"[M/N]?" he lowered his gaze and he was met with Nancy "What happened to you?" she asked gently, her hand gently brushing against his face.

"Wheeler? Feel like I'm seeing you more and more often." he joked softly, eyes fluttering shut at the feeling of her cool touch "Ah, just a virus or something. Nothing too bad." she gave him a look.

"Nothing too bad? You look like you're dying!" you gave a laugh as his head tipped back, weakly raising his hand to take a sip of his water. Nancy noticed his struggle and helped him bring it to his lips, he silently thanked her as he lowered it back down.

"I promise you, this isn't the worst I've been." she shook her head.

"That's not reassuring." he then tilted his head at her.

"What about you? Why are you here?" she let out a sigh as she slumped into the seat beside him, caressing her forehead.

"Last night, I... I paid a visit to Ms Driscoll." he raised a brow, the widowed old lady? "Jonathan and I went to visit her yesterday and we found her, um, eating fertilizer." he retched at that, pressing a hand to his mouth.

"What?" she nodded.

"They believe she had a psychological break."

"Psychological?"

"Mm. They think that after the loss of her husband and years of being alone finally got to her. She was like... a rapid animal."

"And you found her like that yesterday?"

"It all happened so fast. I came to visit her last night and I saw the aftermath before being told to leave. So, here I am while pretending to be her family just so the nurses would let me see her." at the mention of that [M/N] let out a weak laugh, messing with his hair as he glanced down the hall. There, he saw Wayne chatting with nurse Doris about which prescriptions he had to take then snorted softly at the face Nancy made "I don't think that nurse likes me that much."

"Eh, she's like that but she's really nice." she scoffed softly as she leaned back into her seat.

"To you, maybe. Not me though." he shook his head.

"Perhaps she can smell the bullshit on you." he smiled when that managed to get a laugh out of her.

"You're so funny, Munson." he winks at her.

"I try my best." she blinked when a hand was suddenly pressed down on top of [M/N]'s head, which caused them both to look up and see Wayne had finished his conversation with Doris and was now standing in front of him, a bag of what they believed was medication for [M/N] "Oh, are we leaving now?" [M/N] asked, humming softly when Wayne's hand shifted to his shoulder to give it a light squeeze.

"Yes, we're going home now." Nancy takes the now empty cup from his hands then stands up to help [M/N] to his feet, hands on his back as he leaned against Wayne so he wouldn't fall face first into the floor "Thank you for keeping my boy company, little lady." she gave a small laugh as she rubbed the back of her neck.

"It was nothing, Mister Munson. He looked like he needed it." she watched as Wayne brushed [M/N]'s hair back, whispering in his ear that earned him a whine from the younger man "Is he going to be alright? He looks like he's in pain." the older man sighed softly as he kept a hand on [M/N]'s back to comfort him.

"My boy will be alright. A little virus won't keep him down." she jumped slightly when Eddie appeared behind her, giving Nancy a small grin when he passed to stand beside his cousin.

"Hey, Wheeler! Wasn't expecting to see you here." his hand rubs up and down [M/N]'s arm as he looked at Wayne "Are we off?" this earned him a nod.

"Mm. You came back just on time." Eddie clapped his hands as he grabbed [M/N] this time and pulled him into him.

"Did you hear that, you big baby? Let's lug your ass back to the truck." [M/N] groaned when Eddie started dragging him off but he did make sure to bid Nancy a farewell, weakly raising his hand before it dropped back down to his side as he and Eddie disappeared round the corner. She looked back up at Wayne and saw, despite concern and exhausted a father might have when his son fell gravely ill, a face full of fondness for his son and nephew.

"You must love your boys a lot, Mister Munson." she said without meaning to. Wayne blinked at the statement then chuckled softly.

"I do. Very much so." he takes a breath to collect himself and nodded his head to her "I hope you have a good rest of your day, young lady."

"And I hope [M/N] gets better." he smiles then nods once more. With that, he turned and finally disappeared down the hall.

The drive back to the trailer park was much less painful for [M/N]-the medication they gave him eased the pain so his head wasn't constantly in pain and he could actually take a deep breath without the need to throw up. Now that it was further into the day it was hotter and the sun was above their heads, making that his new problem. So Eddie was greatly entertained when the sun shun down on his face and he actually hissed, using his hand to shield his eyes from the suns rays.

"Okay, Dracula, chill out." Eddie joked as he reached over to pluck Wayne's hat from his head and plop it onto [M/N]'s instead, twisting it until the brim blocked out most of the sun "That better?" [M/N] groaned as he curled in on himself, grabbing the brim and pulling it down to cover his eyes. They had briefly stopped at the supermarket so Wayne could get some ingredients to make food [M/N] could swallow and keep down-nothing too overly greasy. So basically nothing Venom was going to be satisfied with.

"I won't be long. I'm going to get a few things than I'll come straight back." Eddie nodded as he leaned against the truck while [M/N] stayed in the truck, body swaying back and forth and eyes closed because it was still bright. Eddie couldn't help but snicker when Wayne shook his head, [M/N] looked like he was having a bad trip.

"I'll keep an eye on him. Promise he won't keel over while you're gone." Eddie just about loses it when [M/N] flipped him off. He slumped back into the seat as he tugged his headphones back over his ears, taking a deep breath as "The Impossible Dream (The Quest)" started playing this time. The opening to the song easing the tension off his shoulders, even when it started picking up laterer-Frank Sinatra's voice always had a calming affect on him. He was lucky Venom didn't sneak in one of his own tapes, he didn't know if his head could handle listening to Madonna or anything pop related when it already felt like a concert was raging in his head.

"I want to listen to Blondie." [M/N] sighs, squeezing his temples.

"I don't wanna." he murmurs softly, opening his eyes to peek at where Eddie was. He spotted him in the sideview mirror, he had stepped away from the truck to smoke a cigarette. He appreciated that because the last thing he needed was the smoke to drift into the truck while he was trying not to throw up "I want to relax."

"You always listen to boring music."

"Well fuck you. I never shit on your music taste."

"You complain."

"Yes. Complain and shit on is completely different." the clash of Venom's voice was making it very difficult to focus on the music, he squeezes his temples in mild frustration "I don't even have any of your tapes on me." he deadpanned when he felt Venom pout. What are you, a child? Well, maybe he was. He was forced into [M/N]'s body about eight years ago, so technically he was eight.

"You never let me listen to my music." [M/N] rolls his eyes, well he sounds like a damn child. He tugged the headphones off his head and looked at his reflection through the rearview mirror, seeing Venom looking back at him instead of his reflection "It's always your music."

"Yes, because if you don't remember, music with pitches a little too high hurts us." he rubs his forehead when he felt a sharp pain in his temple "I don't feel like listening to something that'll make my head hurt even more."

"Pussy." [M/N] pressed his lips into a thin line, fuck you too buddy. He was about to put his headphones back on when that sharp pain became too painful to ignore. At first he thought it was just Venom being spiteful, he did tend to do that when things didn't go his way. His head tipped forward and that's when he noticed that his nose started bleeding-blood dripping onto his sweats as he raised his hand to touch the steady trickle of red liquid. What the fuck? He was fortunate enough that it didn't trigger his nausea but it made the pain in his head worse "One is near." his body froze, a sudden chill running down his spine as he looked at his reflection again.

"What?" Venom didn't blink as he stared right back.

"One is near." Venom shifts his gaze to look out the window "And it is close."

[with eddie]

Eddie had stepped away just to have a quick smoke.

Being in that hospital for several hours-seeing [M/N] hooked up to monitors with fluid and medication pumping into him while he cowered into Wayne's shoulder, it did something to him. Eddie hated hospitals just as much as [M/N] did, it brought nothing but bad memories each time he'd gone. From [M/N]'s condition coming and going periodically, to watching his own mother's deteriorating form as whatever illness claimed her life. He didn't like seeing him laying in that hospital bed because all he could see was his own mother that was taken too early into his life that he can barely remember what she looked like. Wayne tells him that he has her hair and face, and sometimes it's a little comforting to hear-that he has a piece of her with him. Then other times he can't look in the mirror because all he sees looking back at him is the woman he can barely remember.

He's never really spoken about his mother to [M/N], not really. He only learned tid bits from Wayne-like how he got his love and talent for music from her. How she used to sing songs she made up from the top of her head to him. How she would sing him to sleep when nights with his father got especially bad. [M/N] knew about his father, Al Munson, and how big of a screw up he was. Eddie spoke plenty about him because he swore he wouldn't wind up like him- like the father that up and abandoned him at his uncle's doorstep who stepped up and became the father he needed.

But his mind drifted back to [M/N] and he realized that he... didn't really know much about his past. Before him, before his uncle. Before the fateful night when Wayne struck him down with his truck. He remembered when Wayne came home distraught and near tears, muttering how he ran some kid down but he lived with nothing but a couple bruises on his already weakened body. He was all skin and bones-traumatized from whatever he experienced before waking up in a hospital that intensified his fear of hospitals and doctors. He never pushed [M/N] to tell him about his past-Wayne told him that he was hurt real bad by some people and he knew better than to push someone who didn't even want to remember his past.

"Jesus christ..." he muttered to himself, struggling to keep his cigarette from slipping between his trembling fingers. He was far enough from the truck that the smoke would drift in and trigger his nausea, but he was close enough he could still see him in case something happened. He glanced down at his cigarette and sighed when it was just about finished, so he took one last drag from it before flicking it to the ground then stubbing it out with his boot. He lifted his gaze from the gravel then froze when he noticed [M/N]'s head bow slightly and a faint trickle of blood ran down his nose-from where he was, he could just recognize that dazed look on [M/N]'s face. The telltale signs that he was just about to pass out. He quickly made his way back over to the truck, hoping and praying that [M/N] didn't smash his face against the dashboard and make his nosebleed even worse, only to be stopped when someone stepped in front of him.

"Munson." he glanced up at stranger and he furrowed his brows when he recognized the guy. Well, barely. It was someone from the popular crowd-not [M/N]'s crowd- someone that didn't really like him but wasn't downright hostile like Hargrove and Carver. He tries to step out him, only for the guy to get in his way each time.

"Um, do you need something?" he asks softly, trying not to stir the pot in case things physical. The last thing he needed was for him to get a broken nose all because someone from school didn't like him. He stared up at him again and he furrowed his brows when he realized that there was just something... wrong with him. He didn't look like he was all there-like there was a haze in his eyes. It reminded him of the times when he got really high and his mind would float out of his body and he was incapable of doing anything except lay in pure bliss. But this wasn't bliss, it was something else entirely. It made him nervous-really nervous.

"Do you have a minute, Munson?" he asks, though it felt more like a demand. Like he didn't have a choice in the matter, but Eddie shook his head as he tried to step around him again.

"No, actually. I don't have a minute. So, if you'll excuse me-" the instance he brushed past him that guy grabbed his forearm and pulled him back, and it wasn't -gentle. These guys were never gentle, but the grip he had on him was ridiculous. It was similar to when he pissed Hopper off- when was the guy not pissed off? That's besides the point. The point was that he had his arm in an iron grip and each time he tried twisting or yanking his arm free, his hold only got tighter "Wha- hey!"

"I'm trying to talk to you, Munson." even the way he spoke felt eerie. It was like someone else was speaking through him. The voice sounded unnatural. Dead.

"Well, you think you can talk to me with a looser grip?" Eddie winced when the hold tightened again. "What are you trying to do, break my arm? Let go of me!" he grabbed at the guy's wrist, trying to loosen his grip or at least ease the pain beginning to build where he was being held.

"Don't make this harder than this needs to be." Eddie felt panic settle in at his words because what did that mean? This didn't feel like the usual harassment he faced against his high school bullies. This felt different and unnerving-like if he didn't get away from him now he wasn't getting away at all. He gasped, eyes wide, when another hand when another hand suddenly appeared and clamped down on his aggressor's wrist. It was [M/N]. There was a faint smear of blood beneath his nose where he'd clearly tried-and failed-to wipe it away completely. His grip was tight, but his expression was worse. The brim of his hat cast his eyes in shadow, making the look on his face seem almost animalistic as he stared the other boy down.

"Get your fucking hands off him." he downright snarled at him. [M/N] had to thank Venom for taking control of his body because he was sure that if he hadn't he'd drop dead. The guy standing in front of him had that same presence those dogs back at the junkyard and lab had, so what did that mean? It didn't make sense in their head. It was a little unnerving for them because it felt like there was nothing standing in front of them despite there clearly being a person right in front of them-it was like there was nothing but a husk of a person.

"And what will you do if I don't?" [M/N] doesn't answer him. Instead, he tightens his grip on him and doesn't stop until he hears his bones start to crack. It was like something snapped back into place, like he was brought back to consciousness, because he let out a yelp of pain and immediately let Eddie go. Eddie was quick to jump away as he rubbed at his bruising skin, [M/N] in turn let him go but kept a close eye on him in case he thought about grabbing for Eddie again "What the- what the hell man?!"

"Is that what I should be saying to you?" he flexed his fingers, hands closing into a tight fist-ready to knock this guy on his ass. He watches the guy cower under his gaze before slowly backing away. [M/N] doesn't take his eyes off him until he was finally out of sight-until Venom could no longer sense there was any danger imminent. Eddie glanced up at [M/N] then let out a whoa when he noticed his knees buckle, he was quick to catch him before he fell face first into the gravel "A-Are you alright, Eddie?" he sighed weakly as he reached up to wipe away the traces of blood from [M/N]'s face.

"You're asking if I'm alright when you're clearly dying?" this earned him a weak laugh as he starts leading him back towards the truck.

"What was that guy's problem?" Eddie shook his head as he glanced back down at his arm, watching the bruise blossom over his pale skin.

"Fuck if I know. He was acting so weird." he started as he helped him into the truck, grabbing some rags from the bed of the truck to wipe at the sweat beading down [M/N]'s face "It was short, but it felt like I wasn't even talking to a person. Like he wasn't all there." he tilted his head slightly.

"What do you mean?" Eddie tousled his hair as he shrugged his shoulders.

"I don't know. I was kind of... worried. Honestly, if you didn't step in, I was worried what he would have done." he let out a breath as he rested against the truck beside the open door "Everybody in this town doesn't like me-they probably wouldn't bat an eye if I disappeared." [M/N] frowned as he leaned out to look at him, pulling the brim down to block the sun from his eyes.

"I would." he said firmly, he then reached his hand out for Eddie despite the effort it took to keep it from shaking "Wayne and I will always be your number one defenders. You know that, right?" Eddie glanced back down at the dark bruise on his forearm then back towards [M/N]'s hand that was still stretched out towards him, he took a breath before he reached over and took his hand with a sheepish smile.

"Yeah, I know that. Sorry I forgot." this earned him a tired but honest smile "But we're not gonna mention this to Wayne, right?" [M/N] tilted his head.

"Mention what to him?" they shook hands with a nod-good. When Wayne returned with two bags of groceries, he was met with Eddie slowly turning red in the face since he slipped on his jacket. He wants to question why but both he and [M/N] seemed adamant on not answering, just averting his eyes and casually chatting about how color was slowly returning to [M/N]'s face. They'll deal with that growing bruise when they get back to the trailer and [M/N] wasn't close to painting the sidewalk green.

When they did return to the trailer, Eddie was quick to rush [M/N] into the bathroom to take a shower while he cleaned up the living room and Wayne made him something to eat. Well, that's a first. Usually it was a battle to get Eddie to do anything regarding chores, but at least he wasn't making Wayne do everything while [M/N] was reduced to nothing but a sick mess. Before [M/N] stepped into the shower, he was staring rather intently at his reflection through the small mirror in the bathroom. Looking down at his body, he frowned at the sight of all the scars he kept hidden thanks to Venom's influence on his body-capable of manipulating his body at a cellular level so that his scars weren't visible. Back before Venom could heal any wound inflicted to his body, let alone hide them, all he could do was seal his wounds and leave a scar in its wake. And now that Venom was working overtime from keeping his body from collapsing, he couldn't keep up the facade any longer. He was just lucky he managed to keep it up while the doctors and nurses were doing their examinations, but now they were on full display.

He took a breath as he caressed his neck, his hand gliding along the jagged and uneven skin from years of wearing a shock collar. He could feel the indents from where the contact points dug into his skin, delivering shock after shock after shock whenever he was disobedient. Well, it was his fault. He always made it difficult for the scientists and the soldiers but what did they expect? He was a bloody child-he was scared of everything and he didn't want to do the things they made him do. His hands gently stroke at his throat when he felt his stomach churn, the memory of being forced to eat flesh and raw meat from bodies that were either fresh or rotting. He hasn't eaten a body since they were caught by Wayne all those years ago, but sometimes he can still taste-

"Hey, [N/N]!" he gasped, whipping his head around but relaxed slightly when he saw they locked the door "You didn't die in there, did you?" he sighed as he tousled his hair.

"No. I'm fine, Eddie." he hears a soft tap against the door.

"Okay, good. Your beds ready for you when you get out. Wayne's also made you some tea, so have a quick shower, yeah?" he takes a breath as he nods his head, not that Eddie could see.

"Yeah, okay. Thanks!" he hears Eddie's footsteps disappear back down the hallway and he looks back at his reflection, his hands sliding down his body and grimacing at every uneven and jagged line of skin over his torso. They treated him like an animal, and sometimes he felt like one when they fed him scraps just to keep him alive. He never really told Wayne about that part of his past, nor about the copious amounts of scars all over his body-he didn't want him looking at him with more pity than he already does whenever he did speak about his past. He didn't want it, and he certainly didn't need it. After taking another deep breath he finally stepped into the shower, sighing in relief at the feeling of the cold water bringing down his overheated body temperature.

"This feels nice." [M/N] hums, it does. Not wanting to run up the water bill, he washed off the sweat and grime from his body before finally stepping out and changing into comfortable clothes. He did his best to hide every inch of his body despite the clear discomfort he was going to suffer because of the summer heat, but it was either that or have them questioning why his body was so damaged. Eddie snorted when he saw [M/N] slink out of the bathroom and fell face first into his bed, quickly wrapping his blankets around himself until he was cocooned into a burrito. Eddie was nice enough to help him take his needed medication then wash it down with tea before Wayne took his place beside him and fed [M/N] spoonful after spoonful of soup, occasionally coaxing him to take another spoonful when he would whine about his stomach hurting.

"Come on, just one more." he grimaced as he sunk further into his blankets.

"Mmm... I'm full though." Wayne let out a sigh as he gently caressed [M/N]'s forehead with his knuckles.

"I know, but I need you to take just one more bite, okay? Just one more and we'll be done, I promise." he watched [M/N]'s eyes flicker between the spoon and Wayne's face, his face scrunching up in pain "Just one more, please." [M/N] look at Wayne before taking a deep breath, pinching his nose due to the rather pungent aroma the soup was giving off and opened his mouth. He visibly shuddered, slapping his hand over his mouth as he swallowed when he felt his stomach churn-threatening to throw up everything he managed to swallowed down. Eddie took the bowl from Wayne and handed over a glass of water, finishing what was left as he turned towards the kitchenette just as Wayne tipped [M/N]'s head back to help him drink the water "Good, good. Wash it all down. Atta boy." he places the glass down and gently rubs [M/N]'s back through the layers of blankets.

"Need anymore water, [N/N]?" Eddie calls out, fixing himself a plate of soup. All he got was a groan as [M/N] wiped at his face.

"Maybe later..." his voice slurred a bit, feeling drowsy after a shower, tea and soup. A deadly combination, that is. Wayne quietly thanks Eddie for filling up another glass and taking the empty one to the sink, setting it down on the coffee table as he lays [M/N] back down so he could relax. Eddie watches as Wayne caresses [M/N]'s forehead again, murmuring something soft enough that the younger boy sheds a tear that is wiped away just as gently at before. It takes some time for his breathing to even out and he finally falls asleep-his breathing hitching every now and then as his body fights whatever virus or illness he picked up.

"Man," Eddie breathed out, hands on his hips as he shook his head "I can't remember the last time I've seen him this... weak." Wayne doesn't say anything at first, instead he strokes the back of his knuckles against [M/N]'s cheek.

"Poor boy would rather keep all his grievances to himself than "burden us", remember?" Eddie's shoulders slumped as he rubbed the back of his head, the distant promise he swore to the boy about not telling Wayne that he threw up violently at the mall "There's so much going on in his head that I sometimes wish he would share it with me-or with you." Eddie shuffles his feet as he looks over [M/N]'s unconscious body.

"... there's so much of his past that's still a mystery to me." he spoke softly "I met the kid when he was twelve, but I don't know anything past that. He was so broken and traumatized that it felt wrong to ask." Wayne recalls his own memory-knowing about [M/N]'s past as an experiment, being known as nothing more than a number. But even still, [M/N] never shared anything about his life before the labs-like he was ashamed of it.

"Maybe he'll tell us eventually. But for now... we should make do with what we have now." Eddie nodded his head slowly as he reached over, his fingers gently curling around the few strands peaking through the blankets before pulling his hand back. He and Wayne quietly ate as [M/N] slept, occasionally tossing and turning but not waking up. They'd take turns whenever he made a noise just to check up on him but them being in his presence seemed to put him at ease-nothing more than their touch was enough to settle him. Hours later, Wayne had unfortunately left for work. Eddie watched from the doorway as Wayne leaned over [M/N]'s sleeping form, whispering something softly before pressing a kiss to the top of his head. [M/N] stirred at the contact. His eyes cracked open just enough to follow Wayne's retreating figure, unfocused and heavy with sleep. He mumbled something incoherent, words slurring together as exhaustion dragged him back under "Go back to sleep, son." he said with a chuckle, a gentle hand brushed through [M/N]'s hair before he straightened up. [M/N] made a small noise of protest but ultimately obeyed, sinking deeper into the blankets.

"I'll take care of him."

"You always do." Eddie smiled faintly at that before watching him head out. A few moments later, Eddie heard the familiar rumble of Wayne's truck starting up outside, followed by the sound of it pulling away down the street. The trailer felt quieter afterward-not silent, just different. Eddie wandered over to the bed and grabbed [M/N]'s Walkman along with the small stack of cassette tapes sitting on the bedside table. He sorted through them one by one.

The Smiths.

Paul Anka.

Joy Division.

Kate Bush.

A few mixtapes.

"Christ, your music taste is always so depressing." Eddie muttered affectionately. After a moment, he settled on The Smiths. Specifically, Hatful of Hollow. He slipped the tape into the Walkman, adjusted the volume until it was low enough not to wake him, then carefully placed the headphones over [M/N]'s ears. The soft crackle of the cassette filled the room. Eddie sat down on the edge of the bed and watched. [M/N] took a shaky breath, then another- the tension in his face slowly eased as the music played. His shoulders relaxed as his grip on the blankets loosened. For the first time all day, he actually looked comfortable, so Eddie leaned back in the chair beside the bed and crossed his arms.

Eddie spent the rest of the evening keeping himself occupied. He read through one of his books, scribbled ideas for future campaigns into a notebook, and occasionally worked on song lyrics whenever inspiration struck. Every so often, he'd glance over at [M/N] to make sure he was still sleeping comfortably. The trailer remained quiet for the most part, save for the occasional turning of pages, the scratching of a pencil, and the soft music still drifting from the Walkman. The only time Eddie disturbed him was to make him drink some water and take his medicine.

That had been easier said than done.

[M/N] had barely opened his eyes, squinting up at Eddie with a look of utter betrayal as he was gently hauled into a sitting position.

"Drink."

"No."

"Drink."

"I'll do it later."

"You said that hours ago." [M/N] groaned dramatically and attempted to sink back into the pillows but Eddie grabbed the back of his shirt before he could "Not happening." after several minutes of grumbling, complaining, and weak attempts at negotiation, [M/N] finally accepted the water and medicine. The moment he swallowed them, he collapsed back into bed like a man who'd just completed a great and terrible ordeal.

"Happy?" he slurred out weakly as Eddie took back the now empty glass.

"You are such a baby when you're sick." [M/N] responded by lifting his hand and flipping him off without even opening his eyes "Yeah, yeah. Love you too."

Within minutes, [M/N] had drifted back to sleep.

And so Eddie returned to his book, occasionally glancing over the top of the pages just to make sure his breathing remained steady.

Because despite how annoying [M/N] could be, seeing him resting peacefully was a hell of a lot better than watching him suffer.

Eventually, Eddie fell asleep. Once his breathing evened out and his snores filled the room, Venom slowly slinked out from beneath [M/N]'s skin. He hovered above the bed for a moment before drifting over to loom above Eddie. Tilting his head, Venom listened closely. The human was snoring. Loudly. Carefully, he nudged his head against Eddie's. The only response he received was some sort of strange noise that didn't sound remotely human.

Good.

He was dead asleep.

For good measure, Venom grabbed the blanket that had slipped off Eddie and pulled it back over him, tucking him in.

Satisfied, he returned to [M/N]'s side and gently nuzzled his cheek.

"[M/N]... [M/N]..." a groan escaped him. Venom smiled softly as [M/N] attempted to bury his face deeper into the blankets "I hunger, [M/N]. I wish to feast." that only earned him another groan.

"Can't you let me sleep...?" [M/N] mumbled. Venom nudged his face again.

"Perhaps if I eat, you will feel better." his grin widened when [M/N] paused and cracked an eye open, staring up at the white teeth hovering above him "It always makes you feel better." Venom waited patiently, pulling back to hover above the bed. [M/N] took a slow breath, clearly debating whether he could ignore the request and go back to sleep. Eventually, however, he relented.

"Fine. But I want to be asleep."

"I can render you unconscious throughout the entire hunt." normally, [M/N] preferred to stay awake. He liked making sure Venom didn't get carried away and eat something that wasn't on the menu. Tonight, however, he was too exhausted and too weak to care. He simply huffed and pulled the blankets tighter around himself.

"I would appreciate that very much..." [M/N] let out a tired breath as the familiar embrace of Venom slowly spread across his body. Even then, Venom carefully draped himself over the blankets as well, making sure [M/N] remained warm and comfortable. As he slowly manipulated the biochemicals within [M/N]'s body, preparing him for sleep, Venom gently patted his chest where he could feel [M/N] curling up inside him "Thank you for asking, Venom." Venom nodded.

"Of course. We have been through a great deal together. I would not take advantage of you while you are in this weakened state." a low purr rumbled through his chest when he heard [M/N] hum softly in response, curling deeper into the warmth of their shared consciousness.

Within moments, [M/N]'s breathing slowed.

And Venom stayed beside him until he was certain he was asleep.

When he was certain he wouldn't wake up, he finally set out to begin his hunt.

[the morning]

Eddie woke with a start, a strange wet noise escaping him when something suddenly jolted him awake. His hair was a complete mess, sticking out in every direction, and he could feel drool dribbling down the corner of his mouth. Disgusting. Slowly, he turned his head from where he'd fallen asleep on Wayne's bed and wiped at his face before blinking the sleep from his eyes. Then he sat upright-scratch that-he shot upright when he spotted [M/N]'s bed empty. He looked around in a panic, wondering where he could have disappeared to. Eddie scrambled to his feet, or at least, he tried to. His feet got tangled in the blanket wrapped around his legs, and before he could catch himself, he pitched forward. A sound somewhere between a shriek and a squawk tore from his throat.

Then-

THUD.

He hit the floor hard enough to rattle the trailer. And that's when he heard it-a soft gasp sounded nearby. Groaning, Eddie lifted his head and who does he see standing a few feet away? [M/N]. Still wrapped head-to-toe in blankets like some sort of sickly burrito and he stood frozen in the hallway entrance. Judging by the direction he was coming from, he'd probably just returned from the bathroom. For a moment neither of them said anything, [M/N] stared down at him a little amused as Eddie stared up from where he was sprawled across the floor.

"...you good?" [M/N] finally asked. Eddie blinked then let his head drop back against the carpet with a defeated sigh.

"Peachy." Eddie sighed when [M/N] laugh tiredly "You gonna give me a hand?" he narrowed his eyes on him when [M/N] readjusted the blankets over his shoulders, shuffling over to loom over him.

"You look pretty cozy down there. You sure you want me to help you up?" Eddie rolled his eyes, pushing his hair back with a huff.

"Haha, very funny. Now give me a bloody hand." he laughed softly but finally helped, slipping a hand free and holding it out to Eddie. He let out a strained noise as he pulled Eddie to his feet, shaking then flexing his hand then adjusted his blankets once more. Eddie stretched his arms over his head then glanced at [M/N], raising a brow when he noticed that he looked better "How are you feeling? You've got a bit more color to you." Venom was right, he always did feel better whenever he fed. He wasn't sure just how many people he ate and he wasn't going to question it, he just knew he felt better. He wasn't feeling entirely like himself just yet, but at least he didn't feel like he was dying. So, he smiles at Eddie.

"Do I? Well, I don't feel as pathetic as I did yesterday." Eddie snorts.

"You were very pathetic." he deadpans when Eddie laughed, rolling his eyes.

"Thanks. I appreciate the honesty."

"Glad I could be of assistance." Wayne wasn't home just yet and Eddie could only blame [M/N] for waking him up so early into the morning-not like he intended to wake the poor bastard up-but sure, blame the sick guy for your troubles. Eddie helps [M/N] back to bed but doesn't lie him down, he instead grabs his medicine and some water. After taking them and washing it down with the water, he grabs the thermometer and slipped it into mouth. After a couple seconds, he pulls it out and hums softly as he reads the results "Your temperature seems to have gone down. At least it's in the double digits this time." he laughs softly when [M/N] weakly lifted his fist up.

"Yipee..." he shook his head.

"Dork." Eddie starts cleaning up Wayne's bed so when he did come home he could just crash without a second thought, though, he did have a little shadow following his every movement. [M/N] was glued to his back as he shuffled close behind him, fingers curled around the hem of his shirt and practically leaning most of his weight into his back "Come on, dude. I'm trying to clean up."

"Tragedy."

"Do you want me when to turn on the T.V so you can watch cartoons?" [M/N] leaned back, making a face at the suggestion.

"What am I? A child?" with a huff, Eddie places his hands on his hips.

"You sure as hell act like one." that's exactly what Wayne said-like uncle like nephew. Eddie does force [M/N] back onto his bed and turned the T.V, cheekily turning on the channel for cartoons then laughed when the remote was snatched from his hands, raising them defensively when he changed the channel. [M/N] settled for the news, much to Eddie's dismay, and perked up slightly.

"Oh, right. The Fun Fair. I forgot that was happening today." Eddie whipped his head around towards the T.V.

"Damn, today? Shit." [M/N] blinked as he watched Eddie start making coffee, pulling out two mugs for himself and Wayne, giving [M/N] a stern look when he heard him whine "I completely forgot about the Fun Fair. It must have slipped my mind with how sick you've gotten this week."

"Right. You still planning on going?" Eddie rubbed the back of his neck.

"I did want to go but..." his words trail off as he looked back at him, so [M/N] waved his hand to dismiss his concern.

"You can go, Eddie. Go have fun with your friends."

"But what about you? Sure you're better now, but what if you have an episode and neither me or Wayne aren't here? Hell, recently you've been having your episodes around Harrington and you're sure as hell ain't leaving this trailer just to go see him in those sailor shorts." [M/N] couldn't but laugh softly, a soft flush spreading across his cheeks at the mere mention of Steve that he wasn't entirely sure why he reacted the way he did.

"Relax. I'm sure Steve is happy he didn't see my dumbass for one day. Maybe I should pay him a visit." Eddie rolled his eyes.

"Maybe you're not on the verge of dying anymore, but I don't want you passing out on your bike. And if whatever mystery illness you've got doesn't finish the job, the summer heat probably will." [M/N] sighed dramatically.

"Well, look at you being all responsible."

"I know, right?" Eddie groaned "I said it once and I'll say it again-I hate being the responsible one. That's your job." for a moment they stared at each other, then both burst into laughter. The laughter quickly died when [M/N] doubled over coughing and Eddie's smile disappeared instantly "Easy, easy." he was already pouring another glass of water before the coughing fit had fully stopped. [M/N] accepted it with a grateful nod and slowly drank, allowing the cool water to soothe his irritated throat.

"Thanks."

"Don't mention it." Eddie returned to making coffee while [M/N] settled back against the pillows, cocooned in enough blankets to survive a blizzard despite the summer heat. Before long, the familiar sound of Wayne's truck pulling into the driveway echoed from outside, both of them perked up. A moment later, the front door opened. Wayne stepped into the trailer with a groan, rolling one shoulder to ease the tension from a long shift. The exhaustion on his face visibly softened when he spotted both Eddie and [M/N] "And the old man survives another grueling night." [M/N] raised a hand.

"Welcome home, Wayne." Wayne let out a quiet breath as he toed off his work boots, shrugged off his jacket, and removed his hat to hang by the door. Eddie handed him a mug of coffee.

"Thanks, son." Wayne reached over and ruffled Eddie's hair and immediately smacked his hand away.

"Quit it." Wayne laughed gruffly and took a sip of his coffee before making his way over to [M/N], causing the boy to tip his head back to meet his gaze. Without a word, Wayne pressed the back of his hand against his forehead. His expression immediately eased "His temperature's gone down." Eddie reported from the kitchenette before taking a long sip from his own mug "And he slept through the night without waking up." Wayne nodded.

"That's good." he pulled his hand away and gently cupped [M/N]'s face instead "And how do you feel?" [M/N] leaned into the touch instinctively.

"I'm feeling better." he admitted "Not one hundred percent yet, but definitely better." Wayne studied him for a moment before nodding again.

"Good." the relief in his voice was impossible to miss.

"I'm sorry for worrying you." Wayne shook his head immediately.

"Don't apologize for being sick."

"Still."

"No." the firmness in Wayne's voice left no room for argument. [M/N] huffed softly but didn't push the matter, Wayne's thumb brushed against his cheek "You focus on getting better. That's all we're worried about." he couldn't stop the soft chuckle bubbling out of his chest when he saw [M/N] pout, his thumb brushing against his cheek again.

"Okay." Wayne smiled, this time placing his hand on his head.

"Good." Wayne repeated, ruffling his hair. On that note, Eddie began rummaging through the cabinets in search of food while Wayne settled into a chair at their small kitchen table. [M/N] took a deep breath and sank further into the mattress, trying to get comfortable when Venom's voice echoed through his mind.

"[M/N]. There is something I must tell you." he hummed softly to let Venom know he was listening "When I went out to hunt, I returned to the mall so we could feast upon the Russian soldiers." [M/N] nodded slightly.

"Mm hmm."

"We noticed that the spotted human's vehicle was still on the premises." [M/N]'s eyes immediately opened. What? "It did not appear to have moved since the last time we saw him and the other three." [M/N] glanced across the trailer. Eddie was currently pouring an absurd amount of cereal into a bowl while Wayne sat reading the newspaper and sipping his coffee. Slowly, [M/N] turned onto his side and pulled the blankets tighter around himself.

"Couldn't it be because they stayed late?"

"It was three in the morning, [M/N]. I do not believe they were staying that late." [M/N] frowned "And I'd like to reiterate that it did not seem as though the vehicle had moved. It was parked in the exact same location where we last saw it." that immediately put him on edge. Steve's car being at Starcourt after midnight was one thing, but Steve's car still being there at three in the morning? That was another. [M/N]'s fingers tightened around the blanket.

"Did you see them?"

"No."

"Any signs of them?" Venom was silent for a moment.

"None." [M/N]'s stomach twisted, because Steve was an idiot, and Robin was an idiot, and Dustin was definitely an idiot-Erica? Well, he didn't want to test his luck on that one since they all roped her into it. But, if the four of them had gotten themselves into trouble... he squeezed his eyes shut.

Please don't let them be that stupid.

"They are absolutely that stupid." [M/N] groaned and buried his face into his pillow.

Unfortunately, Venom had a point.

When [M/N] got up to eat with them, Wayne noticed how quiet he was. I mean, at first he thought he was quiet because he was still in pain but this... this was different. He was slowly eating but his mind was elsewhere, probably talking to Venom about something that they couldn't discuss out loud. He trusted his boy-genuinely, he did. Though, there were a great many times when [M/N] lied to him in efforts to hide the greater dangers he was in. He played them off, told him that it was nothing for him to worry about. Then the next thing he knew [M/N] was either bleeding, throwing up, passing out or all three in that order. He glanced at his boy, his son, and he couldn't help but worry that he was going to do something reckless.

[M/N] himself was questioning whether or not he should ignore Venom's observation because-what exactly did that mean? Steve's car was still in the parking lot and it has been there since the night he and Venom fled? Did that mean that room lead to some sort of Russian Facility? He and Venom had already theorized that it must have been built similarly to the one in Hawkins-that it was nothing more than a hidden entrance to an underground facility though they weren't confident on the scale of it. It must be big if they were using the Lynx Transportation trucks to import stuff in or export stuff out, perhaps they should check one of those boxes? Ah, but that would require leaving the trailer. Then that would require them waiting for Eddie and Wayne to leave then sneaking out and returning before Eddie gets back from the Fun Fair.

Such a tough decision.

"Boy, eat your food." [M/N] blinked and looked up at Wayne then back down at his bowl of cereal that he barely touched "Something on your mind?" his finger taps against his spoon as he thought of a response.

"Um, uh-I just..." he glanced over to see where Eddie had gone, spotting him slipping into the bathroom, then lowered his voice "Please don't be mad." Wayne narrowed his eyes at him.

"What did you two do?" [M/N] pushed his bowl away and wiped a hand down his face.

"So, you know how we mentioned there were Russians at the mall?" Wayne slowly nodded, clearly curious about where this was going "The night before I collapsed, we... we were technically going to sneak into a room the Russian soldiers were guarding."

"[M/N]!" He raised his hands.

"I know, I know. I didn't really want to go in there because I wasn't sure what we were gonna find, but that's not the point."

"What is the point?"

"The point is that while Venom was hunting last night, he found Steve's car in the exact same spot it was the night before." Wayne raised a brow.

"What does that mean?" [M/N] messed with his hair.

"It means they never left the mall. It means they were still there while I was in the hospital dying from God knows what." he squeezed the bridge of his nose and took a deep breath "I don't know what they found, but I'm... I'm worried about them. We were supposed to be with them, and even if I didn't want to go in there with them, I still feel bad that we kind of abandoned them." Venom appeared over his shoulder, tilting his head.

"It is not as if we planned to abandon them. Remember, you nearly collapsed and we could not afford for them to find you like that." [M/N] sighed, rubbing the back of his neck.

"I get it, but still." his hand slipped from his neck to his forehead "I'm worried something happened to them." Wayne nodded slowly.

"Alright, but... who is they?" he narrowed his eyes at [M/N] "You mentioned Steve, and you're saying we when you're referring to yourself and Venom, but who is they?" [M/N] swallowed thickly and averted his gaze, hoping-now praying-for Eddie to come back from the bathroom so he wouldn't have to explain this alone "[M/N], who else is with that Harrington boy for you to be this worried?"

"Oh, uh-nobody you should be concerned about!" he laughed awkwardly "Just three other people, that's all."

"And those three others are who exactly?" when Wayne's gaze shifted from [M/N] to Venom, the symbiote visibly shrank back and slowly sank beneath [M/N]'s skin, avoiding the wrath of their guardian.

"Leave me out of this."

Coward.

[M/N] was worried. Genuinely worried. About Steve, Robin, Dustin, and Erica. But it had completely slipped his mind that, for one, Dustin and Erica were children. Well-Steve and Robin were technically kids too, and if those Russians were anywhere near as bad as the Americans, they certainly wouldn't care about that. Honestly, for all he knew, they could be dead. And here he was, saved only because something in his body forced him to flee.

Talk about timing.

"Boy, you better tell me the truth." Wayne reached over and took his hand, giving it a gentle squeeze to reassure him "No more secrets. Please." Wayne was always too good at wearing him down, breaking through his resolve until he almost cracked—almost told him there was a fourteen year old and, what, a ten year old probably in the clutches of Russian soldiers. Guilt twisted in his chest as his eyes finally met Wayne's.

"I... I just-"

"Phew!" both of them flinched when Eddie all but announced his return, slamming the bathroom door shut behind him like he'd just conquered the toilet "I don't know if I had constipation or something, but that was a real doozy." [M/N] immediately scrunched his face in disgust, even going so far as to pinch his nose as he pulled his hand back from Wayne's.

"You're disgusting, Eddie." he grimaced even harder when Eddie reached over and touched him with his still damp hands, then wiped them on his shirt "Disgusting."

"You're lucky I washed them at all."

"Eddie!" Eddie only grinned, completely unaware of how perfectly he'd interrupted the conversation [M/N] had been desperate to avoid. Wayne watched [M/N] try to shove Eddie away, catching the quick glance he spared him before immediately looking elsewhere, clearly seizing the chance to end the topic then and there. And Wayne understood why. [M/N] was scared. Scared of how Wayne might react if he learned that he had knowingly let two kids who weren't even in high school get tangled up in something dangerous enough to get them killed. He was just really, really hoping they were okay.

With Eddie back, Wayne knew the conversation had come to a stop. He wasn't about to drag it up again in front of him, and [M/N] sure as hell wasn't planning on dragging Eddie into whatever mess this was. Still, that uneasy feeling didn't leave Wayne. He was worried-worried that [M/N] was going to do something behind both his and Eddie's backs. And as much as it pained him to admit it, he knew that boy did far too much without ever telling him.

Even after all the promises.

Even after swearing he wouldn't keep things to himself anymore.

That he wouldn't go off and handle things alone.

Wayne knew him too well.

He knew [M/N] wasn't being entirely honest.

He was especially worried because [M/N] was a flight risk. Knowing Eddie was going to be out with his friends at the Fun Fair and that he himself had the night shift at the plant, Wayne had a strong feeling [M/N] was going to try something once neither of them were home. He didn't know who else could be in trouble besides that Harrington boy, but whoever it was had [M/N] worried sick.

Speaking of which, when Wayne finally crashed in his bed and Eddie retreated to his room, [M/N] found himself debating what he should do. His eyes kept drifting to the walkie-talkie, waiting for it to crackle to life. He was waiting for-I don't know-something. Anything. Dustin complaining about Steve whining again, Robin rambling about the Russian code, or maybe even Erica cursing them all for dragging her into this mess.

But there was nothing.

Just crackling static.

Or eerie silence.

He'd kept out of that business since '83, only ever playing minor roles-dealing with the agents or those feral little bastards. But this? This was different. He had indirectly gotten involved with Steve and that Henderson kid, helping them decode the Russian message with Robin and later recruiting Erica to infiltrate that room. He knew the risks-he knew exactly how deep this could drag them, and yet he still helped. Now he was sitting in the safety of his home while those four were God knows where, with God knows what happening to them.

So could he live with himself if they got hurt... or worse?

"What should we do?" [M/N] closed his eyes at the sound of Venom's voice "You are worried that something happened to the spotted one, as well as the others." he sighed.

"We don't know what happened to them. We haven't heard a word from them. And even if I was at the hospital for a couple of hours, we still didn't hear anything through the radio Henderson gave us when we got back." his gaze shifted to the walkie-talkie again. This time, he finally reached over and picked it up "We couldn't have predicted I'd have an episode right before we stepped into that room, but I still feel responsible." his thumb hovered over the button that would let him talk to the others, pressing lightly against it but not enough to activate it.

"Then don't you think we should check on them?"

"Of course, but..." his eyes drifted toward Wayne, still asleep in the other bed.

"It would mean going behind his and Eddie's backs. We haven't told him whose safety might be in danger, and you do not wish to lie to him, so you believe not telling him at all is the better option." [M/N] felt a tendril brush gently against his face "What you want to do goes against what you promised him. And you are having a hard time deciding between what you should do and what you want to do."

"... stop being so good at giving me advice." he could practically feel the smug bastard smirk.

"Stop needing so much of it. Or at least listen to the good advice you're given." he felt the smirk widen when he rolled his eyes.

"Shut up." the tendril that had been caressing his cheek slipped back beneath his skin, leaving him alone with his thoughts. His body flopped back onto the bed, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. His finger tapped against the walkie-talkie resting on his chest, his thumb once again pressing lightly against the button-not enough to activate it and speak to them. Because what was he supposed to say? Oh, sorry I wasn't with you guys when you went into the room. Hope you aren't dead.

Real nice.

The silence stretched on for another minute, then another. [M/N] stared at the walkie-talkie on his chest until the plastic edges blurred. His thumb kept brushing the button, hovering there, backing off, coming back again. He felt ridiculous. Maybe they were fine. Maybe Dustin had it turned down, o-or maybe Robin had taken it from him because he was being annoying, or maybe Steve was just ignoring him to be a dick. That sounded like something that prick would do. He let out a breath through his nose as he shook his head and finally sat up.

"Fine. Fine." with a small grimace, he lifted the walkie-talkie to his mouth and pressed the button "Uh... Henderson? Robin? Steve? You guys there?" his voice came out quieter than he expected when he spoke before releasing the button, waiting for an answer. Something-anything. But... nothing, just a burst of static crackling through the speaker. [M/N] frowned and tried again "Come on, answer the damn radio." he sat up a little straighter, glancing toward Wayne's bed before lowering his voice again "Look, I know I bailed, and I'm sorry about that, but if you guys are still at the mall, say something."

More static.

No Dustin complaining.

No Robin snapping at Steve.

No Steve making some stupid comment.

[M/N]'s grip tightened around the radio.

"Erica?" he tried next, like she would somehow be more likely to answer "You can call me an idiot later, just... answer." and yet, he still got nothing. He swallowed thickly as a cold knot twisted in his stomach. He pulled the walkie-talkie away and stared at it like it had personally offended him, his hand tightening around it "Maybe the signal's bad." he murmured.

"Or perhaps," Venom said from somewhere deep in his mind "they cannot answer."

"No." he spoke but the word came out weak. He pressed the button again, this time a little harder "Steve." his voice dropped on the name. If anyone was going to answer, it should have been Steve. Steve would've answered just to prove he was fine. Steve would've answered to tell him to stop panicking. Steve would've answered because Steve liked acting like he had everything under control even when he absolutely didn't "Steve, if you're there, answer me." he let out a shaky breath when he still didn't get an answer. He took a deep breath as he lowered his head, pressing the walkie-talkie against his forehead as he wished he'd hear just something.

Goddammit.

"Hey, [N/N]!" he gasped softly at the sound of Eddie's voice booming through the trailer, loud enough to stir Wayne from his sleep. [M/N] shoved the radio under his pillow just as Eddie came into view, now wearing an outfit that was very Eddie and only slightly suited for the July heat. "How do I look?"

"... don't you own any shorts?" Eddie threw his head back.

"That's not what I asked."

"You trying to impress someone?"

"[N/N]!" he raised his hands defensively, letting out a short laugh. "Answer the bloody question."

"Well, it's very... you." Eddie nodded, pumping his fist.

"Good. Very good." Wayne let out a yawn as he and [M/N] watched Eddie readjust his rings.

"The boys will be around soon. Planning to mess around for a bit before heading out." [M/N] raised a brow.

"And by 'mess around,' you mean drink and get high?" Eddie snapped his fingers.

"You know me so well."

"Ever thought about, I don't know, doing things sober?"

"Sobriety is overrated." [M/N] rolled his eyes when Eddie pointed at him "You should try it sometime. I mean, I know you can drink like you've got the liver for it, but you should seriously try getting high for once. It'll do wonders for you."

"I'll have you know that I do have the liver for it." he caresses his side, a memory of Venom eating his liver and regenerating it so he wouldn't die "It's the reason why you've never seen me drunk, bitch."

"Uh huh."

After calling up Gareth and the others, Eddie spent the time leading up to their arrival doing exactly what he said he would-drinking and getting high. [M/N] could only shake his head as Eddie, after cracking open two beers and promising to make the old man a sandwich, somehow managed to rope Wayne into it too. Drinking this early in the day. Then again, like they say, it’s five o’clock somewhere. Not that [M/N] had much room to judge-he’d spent most of the summer surviving on little more than ice cream and human bodies. He shudders when Venom started thinking of human flavored ice cream-urgh, disgusting. When his boys finally showed up, of course they came in hooting and hollering, only to quickly quiet down when they realized Wayne and [M/N] were present.

"Whoa, [M/N]!" Frank started, pushing Gareth and Grant aside to get a better look at him "When Eddie said you looked like shit, I didn't expect it to actually be true."

"Dude, shut up! You know he's got something that's been messing with his body since he was a kid." Grant scolded, glaring at him after elbowing him in the side.

"Both of you, shut it," Gareth hissed before giving [M/N] an apologetic smile "We hope you get better, [M/N]. You're always one to bounce back whenever your body decides to kill you." that earned a laugh from [M/N], Eddie, and Wayne. Gareth looked oddly proud of himself for making all three Munson's laugh. Talk about scoring points.

"You sure you're alright missing out?" Grant asked "I mean, everyone's been hyping up this event."

"Yeah. It's like the most fun thing that's happened in this town-well, second to the mall being built." the mention of the mall made all three boys share a look before turning back to [M/N] with matching smirks and wiggling eyebrows.

"Or..." Frank started, drawing the word out "are you skipping it just to go see Harrington?" [M/N] rolled his eyes.

"What are you, children?" they only snickered harder when he flipped them off "I've seen him plenty of times."

"And yet you still go visit him."

"For the free ice cream, of course. And the AC." the skeptical looks he got in return made him glare at them, which was enough for Eddie to finally raise a hand.

"Okay, that's enough. No making fun of the poor sick boy." [M/N] huffed when Eddie came over and gently patted his head, his hand ruffling his hair before moving down to cup his face "You want anything while I'm gone?" Eddie asked. "Can't promise I can get you junk food, though." [M/N] thought for a moment, Eddie's thumb brushing against his cheek.

"Hmm, maybe something small. Like a prize from one of those games." Eddie laughed, then grabbed both his cheeks this time, making [M/N] grunt when his fingers dug into his skin.

"Well, don't complain when I win nothing. Hell, you'll be lucky if I get you something as measly as a keychain." Wayne shook his head when [M/N] smacked Eddie's hand away, which quickly devolved into the two of them slapping at each other and tugging at each other's hair and cheeks "Wayne! Your son is bullying me!" [M/N] scoffed, yanking on Eddie's hair to pull him away.

"He's bullying a cripple!"

"You're not a cripple!"

"With how fucked up my body is, I may as well be!" seriously, with how these two acted, no one would ever guess they weren't brothers-biologically related, even. Having had enough, Wayne stood up and grabbed them both by the ears, squeezing hard enough that they immediately let go of each other and scrambled to grab at his wrists in a desperate attempt to ease the pain.

"Both of you, quit it." Wayne shook his head when [M/N] curled up on the bed, whimpering softly as he clutched his ear, while Eddie pouted and whined beside him "Quit your crying, boy. It ain't gonna make a difference." Eddie snorted, but quickly looked away when Wayne fixed him with a sharp look. It was always so funny to watch the Munson family interact the way that they do-it was clear that Wayne genuinely loved his boys, even when they did his head in "Will you be back later, or will you crash at one of your friend's places?" Eddie fixed his hair then glanced back at the trio, who were currently chuckling and snickering.

"Eh, I'll see where the night takes me. Promise I won't end up dead in a ditch." he reached over and ruffled [M/N]'s still messy hair, jumping back with a laugh when he tried smacking him again "I'll call if I wind up back at... someone's house." the trio nod behind him.

"Sounds accurate." they step out of the trailer as Eddie backs away, waving his hand goodbye as [M/N] sat up and attempts to fix his hair.

"Try not to miss me too much."

"You make it hard when you always do the dumbest shit." he ducked when Eddie threw something at him, laughing as he used a pillow to block the second object Eddie chucked his way. They flipped each other off one last time before Eddie finally turned and left, the trailer door shutting behind him as he shouted something at his friends. Probably about what they were going to do first when they got to the fair. [M/N] sank back down into his bed, hugging his pillow to his chest. Wayne rubbed the back of his head and looked over at him, watching as he pulled the walkie-talkie out from under his pillow and fiddled with the dials.

"You thinking about doing something stupid?" Wayne tilted his head when [M/N] didn't answer immediately-didn't deflect or try to change the subject. He just sat there, lost in his thoughts "Son?" [M/N] still didn't turn to face him. His gaze remained fixed on the radio, which continued to buzz with inactivity. Instead, Wayne watched as Venom emerged from [M/N]'s back, while [M/N]'s attention stayed locked on the device in his hands.

"We might be stepping out later." Wayne's eyes widened. He immediately shook his head and pushed himself to his feet, mouth opening to protest, only to stop when Venom's grin widened "We do not wish to go against your wishes, Wayne-nor do we wish to make you even more concerned for his condition-but this is something we cannot ignore." the older man stared at the boy who had yet to look at him, shoulders slumping as he let out a sigh.

"Can I know if you'll be home?" the tapping ceased and there was a moment of silence, [M/N] let out a breath before he finally turned to look at Wayne.

"... I will." he slowly pushed himself up, hand still clutching the walkie-talkie "I just... I have to make sure they're okay."

Wayne knew [M/N] was selfish, especially when it came to his own life. The only people he'd ever willingly risk himself for were Wayne and Eddie, promising to keep them safe whenever his past came back around and dragged them into it directly. If it didn't involve them, [M/N] usually kept his role minimal. Maybe it was because he and Venom felt indebted to him-maybe it was because he was the only one who knew their secret. So why was he suddenly going out of his way for this group of people he still hadn't named? He hadn't outright said they were in immediate danger, but after mentioning that they could be in the hands of Russian soldiers, Wayne could tell [M/N]'s concern was beginning to outweigh his instinct for self-preservation.

"You must be very worried for that Harrington boy." Wayne raised a brow when [M/N] flinched-and was he... blushing?

"What? Psh, no! I mean-yeah, I am worried about him, but, like... I'm worried about all of them."

"Then, would you be this concerned if this were any other group and Steve wasn't involved?" his eye twitched.

"I mean, not really. If it weren't for Steve, I probably wouldn't have even met the other three." Robin, maybe. They were in the same year, so they probably would've crossed paths in high school eventually, but he wouldn't have had any reason to actually talk to her. He knew of Dustin, but that was only because of Steve. And Erica? He wasn't even going to touch that, considering she was Lucas Sinclair's little sister... who Steve also happened to know. His shoulders slumped as he rubbed his forehead, dragging a hand down his face before squeezing at his chin.

"So, again, would you even think of going to "check on them" if Steve Harrington wasn't involved?" he bit his lip and looked away, because honestly... he really wouldn't.

He couldn't quite explain what made Steve so different. He was just another person in his life, someone he saw nearly every day. But Steve wasn't Roddy. He wasn't his best friend, someone [M/N] saw as a brother-not quite on the same level as Eddie, but a brother all the same. Steve was someone he could be vulnerable with, someone he trusted enough to tell some of his biggest insecurities to-things not even Roddy knew, and he knew a lot. Sure, his favorite part of the day was going to Scoops Ahoy just to see Steve, but that was only because watching him fail spectacularly at trying to swoon girls was hilarious. Not because he actually wanted to spend time with him-that would be ridiculous. And sure, he liked talking to Steve, because when Steve wasn't pretending to be someone he wasn't, he was genuinely a good person.

Steve was empathetic and understanding in a way that made [M/N] want to open up to him. It felt nice to talk about his feelings when, for the longest time, the only person he really had was Wayne. He never told Steve anything too damning, but having someone who would listen was more than enough. And his sense of humor? Hilarious-though maybe that was because [M/N] had the same kind of dry humor. Still, he wasn’t sure he’d ever laughed as hard with anyone who wasn’t Steve. And of course, [M/N] wasn’t going to lie-Steve was ridiculously handsome. Though since he started working at Scoops, he looked more... cute? That uniform looked unfair on him, showing off those legs of his. He complained about the sailor hat ruining his hair, but honestly? It somehow made it look fluffier than it ever had in high school. And those lips? Was he using some kind of lip gloss or something? Because why the hell did they look so damn plump-why the fuck was he thinking about Steve Harrington’s lips?!

"Son?" [M/N]'s breath hitched, his face erupting into a bright shade of red because-oh shit.

"No... no...!" he strangled out, the walkie-talkie slipping from his fingers as he cradled his head in his hands "Oh fuck, oh shit. Oh man, this is the worst!" Wayne raised an eyebrow.

"Come to a conclusion about something? Or rather, about yourself?" [M/N] scowled up at him, though the flush on his face didn't help his case.

"I am very well aware of myself, thank you very much. It's just... him?" He shook his head and looked up at the ceiling "If Eddie were here, he'd be severely disappointed in me." Wayne chuckled and shook his head.

"If it makes you feel any better, I'm not against you liking that Harrington boy." he said softly as he took a seat at the edge of [M/N]'s bed "If anything, I think that boy's really good for you." that made [M/N] lower his gaze from the ceiling.

"Really?" Wayne nodded.

"Of course. You talk about him nonstop, and here I thought I wouldn't be hearing about him anymore once you two became friends. Should've realized the topic would just change from wanting to kill him to talking about how he laughed at one of your jokes." the red in [M/N]'s face burned even brighter at the realization that all he ever seemed to talk about was Steve this and Steve that. Honestly, just put a bullet through his skull already "But he also looks after you whenever you have an episode. I don't think I've had to worry too much about your condition when he's the one helping you through it. I can trust him with you when you're at your lowest-your weakest." the blush on [M/N]'s face softened, though he didn't look any less bashful.

"So you... like him?" that earned him an eye roll followed by a soft laugh.

"Yes, and I'm sure Venom likes him too." [M/N] let out a grunt when Venom emerged from his back and pressed against his cheek.

"I do. Very much." he purred, his grin widening "He feeds us food and spoils us with ice cream. He does get mad when we eat from their walk-in fridge, but he doesn't stay mad at us for very long. So I am sure he likes us too."

"Venom, shut up."

"I will not. You think about him all the time, and sometimes I believe you forget that we share the same mind. I know what you're thinking all the time-from the unpleasant thoughts to the more provoca-" [M/N] quickly slammed a hand over Venom's mouth, the red in his cheeks burning bright all over again.

"Okay, that's enough. Stop talking." he glared at the symbiote as Venom slipped from his grip and submerged himself back beneath his skin. [M/N]'s eyes dropped to his lap, avoiding the smirk on Wayne's face "Please forget everything he just said."

"So, let me get this straight." he couldn't help but snort a little at the joke, earning a groan from the boy beside him "You're willing to risk yourself, despite how weak your body still is, because you want to check up on the boy that's caught your fancy?" [M/N] let out a noise as he dragged a hand down his face.

"Well... yes? I mean, he may be the main reason I want to go, but that doesn't mean I'm not worried about the others. I am, I am-I just..." he let out a shallow breath "If they're hurt-if he's hurt... I'd want to know." Wayne stared at him for a moment, letting the words sink in, before finally pushing himself to his feet and ruffling [M/N]'s hair. That earned him a disgruntled noise, but [M/N] didn't brush Wayne's hand away. He just let him mess up his hair.

"Feel better saying it out loud, boy?" [M/N] shrugged.

"Kind of." Wayne let his hand linger in [M/N]'s hair for a moment before finally pulling away. He watched as [M/N] ran a hand through the ruffled mess, not really fixing it so much as threading his fingers through the strands until his hand came to rest at the back of his neck "So, are you gonna let me walk out that door without chasing after me and dragging me back by my ear?" [M/N] asked, glancing up at him nervously.

"As much as I'd rather you stay in this trailer and let your body recover, I know just how stubborn you can be." Wayne sighed, placing a hand on his hip and the other over his chest "If you hadn't just confessed all this, you probably would've waited until I was gone and broken your old man's heart by sneaking out to go looking for your lover." he laughed when [M/N] shoved him, his face tinged a soft shade of pink.

"Okay, Wayne, shut up!" [M/N] dragged a hand down his face again "And don't call him that. You don't even know if he likes guys. I mean, he's only ever dated women."

"Well, it's understandable that someone might hide an attraction to the same sex in a town like this. Because, as Eddie once put it, everyone in this town is close-minded and would rather fold to conformity than do what they really want." he tilts his head to look at [M/N] "There's always a chance that he could be attracted to you." [M/N]'s shoulders slumped as his fingers pinched a strand of his hair between his fingers.

"Wistful thinking." he flicked his hair back just as Wayne patted his shoulder.

"Just... don't lose hope. I'm sure that boy's got some kind of affection for you, otherwise why else would he put up with your dramatic ass?" [M/N] frowned.

"Uh, rude."

"But true." Wayne finally stepped away and headed into the kitchenette to grab himself a beer. [M/N] watched him closely as the older man settled into his chair and turned on the TV-guess he wanted to catch the game before he had to go to work. [M/N] kept an eye on him for a second before pushing himself to his feet, his arms shaking slightly as his legs trembled from sitting folded up for so long. Wayne heard him shuffling around the trailer, disappearing into the bathroom for a quick shower, then reappearing a little while later in fresh clothes with damp hair. He glanced over briefly and saw [M/N] taking his medicine, washing it down with a glass of water. When Wayne looked back at the TV, [M/N] approached where he was lounging in his chair. He stood beside him in silence for a moment before bending down and wrapping his arms around his shoulders.

"I'll be back." Wayne relaxed as he brought a hand up to pat his back.

"Be safe you two." Venom rumbled in his chest as he grinned.

"We will." after a moment he finally pulled away, patting Wayne's shoulder until he finally stepped away from the older man so he could watch his game. He pulled on his gloves and jacket, grabbing his helmet from where he leaves it hanging by the door but just before he stepped out, he turned to where the walkie-talkie was on his bed and grabbed that too. He nods his head to Wayne as a final goodbye, taking a deep breath when he stepped outside into the July heat. Man, he's already having so many regrets-maybe he could just-

"Don't." he sighed-right, right. He glances down at his watch, hooking the walkie-talkie to his waist and noted that it was late afternoon. If he took the back way he was sure he could get there faster than going through town, that also meant he could dodge all the traffic lights and speed down the empty roads while also avoiding police. But he was sure that the majority of the Hawkins Police department would be at the Fun Fair going on, he just really hoped Sheriff Hopper wasn't patrolling those roads since he frequented those areas.

God he hoped he wasn't around-the last thing he needed was to get arrested.

[starcourt mall]

[M/N] just about crashed into a parked car by the time he pulled up to the mall after speeding down the streets, clutching down on his breaks hard enough that his back wheel lifted off the ground before dropping back down when he came to a complete halt. He quickly parked his bike and tore off his helmet, apologizing to people as he pushed past them so he could search for Steve's car and when he found it he saw that it was ticketed. He tore it off and noted that the time stamped on the ticket read that his car indeed had not moved since the last time he was here, he crumpled up the ticket and threw it away as he stalked back over to the mall entrance.

He winces as the loud noises of people and stores overwhelm his senses to the point he was tempted to put his helmet on the block it out, though he did decide against it because he didn't want to look suspicious and be kicked out. That and it was also hot as fuck despite the sun beginning to fall from the sky. He makes his way over the Scoops Ahoy and visibly settles when he saw that the store was open but when he entered his shoulders slumped when he saw neither Steve or Robin behind the counter but some older gentlemen who looked very annoyed.

"Um, hi. Good afternoon, er, sir?" he greeted politely as he approached the counter, swallowing thickly when he glared at him "I don't suppose you've seen, um, Steve Harrington or Robin Buckley." he held up his hands when the man pointed his ice cream scooper at him as if he were holding a knife instead.

"No, I haven't! Those two kids were supposed to work yesterday and today, and neither showed up for their shift!" he started to sweat a little when he lowered his scooper to pinch the bridge of his nose "I swear to god, if those two flanked out just to fool around, they're both fired!" he couldn't help but make a face at the implications of that sentence-because, what? Sure, Steve was known for fooling around with any girl that so happened to breathe in his general direction-emphasis on the was-but now he barely got so much as a conversation before they're telling him they're not interested. Talk about a fall from grace. And don't get him started on Robin. That girl has put up with enough of Steve's bullshit since high school and now having to work with the former King himself? She's told him many times that she'd rather nosedive off the roof of the mall than to go on a date with a guy who could be carrying several sexual diseases with how much sex he's had. Honestly, fair.

"So you haven't seen them... at all?"

"No. So if you happen to find them, you tell them they're on thin ice. I'll make sure they're on different rosters so they don't think of getting freaky in the walk in fridge." he sighed, taking his sailor hat off just to run a hand through his hair "Don't ask me how many times I've found my staff in there thinking that fridge is sound proof."

"I didn't ask and yet you still told me." he then tapped his hand on the counter, slowly backing away while trying to catch a glimpse into the breakroom through the barely open window behind him "Well, uh-I'll tell them about your warning if I find them."

"You do that." he now stood outside Scoops Ahoy with a disgruntled look on his face. He wanted to go through their breakroom to check on their stuff but now he either had to sneak in there or leave it be. He doesn't think he has time for what ifs so he decides to abandon that idea and go through the employee walkway-perhaps he was hoping to run into some Russian soldiers just to question them about the room if Venom didn't eat them first. They did need to gain access to the room because one, he couldn't fit through the vents, and two, he couldn't pry open the door unless he wanted those soldiers to suspect that it's been tampered with. He wasn't tech savvy so he couldn't hack that console to bypass the security and open the door, and he wasn't entirely sure how the lock worked for Venom to seep through the cracks in the door and open it from the other side.

Thankfully, he snuck into the employee only walkway with no problems and hoped that no actual employee from any of the stores came out as he was running through. He perked up when he heard voices down the hall so he slowed down and pressed himself against the wall, listening as the voices got closer. He felt a his chest rumble when they recognized the Russian words being spoken-well, at least they found their way into the room. Though it did entirely depend if they had a keycard on them, so hopefully they did. When they stepped out, he quickly apprehended them before they could fire any rounds and alert mall security or any staff that so happened to be close, using Venom to suspend them in the air. Venom's tendrils searched through their pockets before finding the needed keycard to unlock the room, much to their delight.

"Что ж, большое спасибо вам за это." he spoke, taking the keycard from the Venom's tendril and slipping it into his pocket "Скажи-ка, не мог бы ты подсказать, что именно стоит осмотреть в той комнате?" he tipped his head to the side, cooing softly as the appendages that kept them suspended slowly curled around them like a snake.

"М-мы... Мы никогда не будем разговаривать, американец!"

"Даже если ты умрешь? Ты уверен, что не хочешь мне рассказать?" he made a face when they spat at his feet.

"Мы с радостью унесём это с собой в могилу, чудовище." his gaze hardened on them as Venom takes shape over his shoulder, he could feel the soldiers start to thrash and struggle in their hold but that only made his grip tighter.

"Дело ваше. Venom." the soldiers shrank when Venom formed over his body and his hulking form loomed over them, his tongue flicking out and dragging across one of their faces.

"до свидания." Venom had eaten those soldiers whole as to not waste anymore time, though he did whine softly as he did not get to relish in their flavor. Dude could be such a food critic sometimes. They made it to the rooftop and peeked over the ledge to check if the coast was clear, and when they saw no other soldier was lingering around the docking bay, he jumped off the roof and landed with a heavy thud. He approached the door and pressed his ear against it to see if he could hear anything that would warrant in him tearing it open, but when he was greeted with silence, he pushed off the door and pulled out the keycard. He took a breath as he raised the keycard to the panel and when the light flashed green with a ping, he watched the door open to reveal... an ordinary room? His eyes flicked across the room in confusion as he tried to find what was off about it-why a room would need a keycard with armed guards in front of it-but there was nothing.

"There's nothing in here." he murmured as his eyes scanned over the Kaufman Shoes and Imperial Panda boxes, though he did notice that a few of them were knocked over "There's nothing special about this room at all."

"Sure, but they were definitely here." Venom said as he formed over his shoulder, stretching over to a fallen cart and some boxes "And I believe the spotted human was hurt." he added as he noticed a little patch of blood on the ground, which made [M/N]'s eyes widen.

"Hurt? Steve was hurt?" he dropped to one knee and winced at the sight of the blood. It wasn’t enough to send him into a panic, but it was still worrying. Steve had been bleeding "But what could've happened to make him bleed? Where did they go?" he watched as Venom leaned closer to inspect it, only to jump when the symbiote’s tongue flicked out of his mouth and lapped up some of the blood "Wha-dude! What are you doing?"

"I am trying to determine how old the blood is." he flushed a little when Venom purred a little as he continued to lap up the blood "His blood is quite sweet."

"Venom." he grumbles under his breath.

"No, I mean that in a concerning way."

"What do you mean?" Venom pulled away and settled over his shoulder, tilting his head in thought.

"There seems to be something circulating in his blood. Some kind of chemical. A drug, perhaps?" [M/N]'s brows furrowed A drug? Did Steve take something? Had someone drugged him? Had they all been drugged? "I cannot determine exactly what kind of drug it is, but I do not believe the dose is immediately fatal. It has altered his mind and slowed his body. He is intoxicated, but not by alcohol. He will be confused, uncoordinated, and unable to properly protect himself."

Venom glanced up at [M/N] and watched his expression twist with anger and guilt. [M/N] couldn't stop thinking that if he hadn't collapsed that night, before they had all entered this room, then Steve and the others might never have ended up in this situation. If he had been stronger, if he had kept going, perhaps he could have protected them. Venom felt his turmoil and heard every thought turning the blame inward. Before [M/N] could sink any deeper into it, the symbiote leaned closer and gently nuzzled against his cheek.

"You cannot blame yourself, [M/N]. We could not have predicted this." he huffed softly when he saw [M/N]'s eyes glisten with tears.

"But he's hurt somewhere. He's bleeding and drugged out somewhere and we don't know where he or the others are." his hand closed into a tight fist "I'm worried." he turned his head as Venom shifted to hover right in front of him.

"Then let us go find them. His blood is still fresh, so they were here recently." they both look back towards the mall "They couldn't have gone far."

"Think you can find them?"

"It will be difficult. We remember his scent, but we might get overwhelmed with the crowd in the mall." [M/N] nods his head as he stepped out of the room, the doors sliding closed behind him as they made their way back towards the mall.

"All we need to do is spot two people in blue sailor uniforms. How hard can that be?"

It was, in fact, pretty hard.

Despite it being the Fourth of July, the mall was still packed with people, which made it even harder to find two teenagers in sailor uniforms-both possibly drugged out of their minds-and two children. One of them was carrying a My Little Pony backpack, while the other wore a hat from some science camp. [M/N] felt like he had been wandering around the mall for hours, searching for even the smallest glimpse of one of them, but it was like looking for a needle in a haystack. They could be anywhere, so every so often, he circled back toward Scoops Ahoy in the hope of spotting them through the narrow crack in the window. Each time, however, the room looked completely undisturbed, and [M/N] was fairly certain the guy working behind the counter was starting to get sick of seeing him.

Venom was having just as much trouble. The mall was crowded with too many people and too many overlapping scents, making it difficult for him to isolate Steve's from the rest. Steve, as Venom had described him, smelled like a strange mixture of different things: ice cream, burnt sugar, the chemicals from his Farrah Fawcett hairspray, and the combined scent of sweat and cologne. They had spent enough time around Steve to know that he had a rather distinct aroma. Venom would-at times-pick up something that smelt remotely like him, but they would instead run into a woman who was doused in Farrach Fawcett fumes or a child whose face was covered in chocolate ice cream.

Mm, choc-stop it.

By the time they were on the second floor overlooking the first, [M/N] had gone through every store and had done several laps around the mall, and he couldn't find any of them. Not Steve, not Robin, not Dustin and certainly not Erica... he kind of didn't want to find her first because he was scared that little girl would bite his ankles. He sighed tiredly as he leaned against the railing, his helmet hanging loosely from his fingers as he stared down at the water fountain on the first floor. The swarm of people had decimated and it wasn't as overcrowded as it was about an hour ago, but he still couldn't spot them from where he was. Maybe he should just try the walkie-talkie-since he's closer, perhaps it'll work this time. He was in the motion of grabbing it when he heard voices and laughter, he didn't think much of it until he listened closely and recognized the laughter.

He turned around, and his eyes widened when he spotted the two of them standing beneath the skylight, staring up at the stars like it was the most fascinating thing they had ever seen. They were even giggling—like children. Relief hit him hard at finally finding them. Dustin and Erica were still nowhere to be seen, but that was a problem for later. Right now, he had found the two most likely to be drugged out of their minds.

"Steve! Robin! Oh, thank god! I've been looking everywhere for you two." he said as he hurried toward them. Steve had his back turned, so [M/N] couldn’t see his face yet. "I'm really sorry for flaking on you guys. I didn't mean to, I just-I wasn't feeling well, and I didn't want to get in the way. I really hope you guys aren't too mad at me, but I'll understand if you are." when he finally reached them, he grabbed Steve by the shoulder. The moment Steve turned around, [M/N] froze at the sight of him.

"Wha...?" as Steve’s eyes adjusted and he realized who was standing in front of him, his whole face lit up "[N/N]!" he was taken aback because, [N/N]? Steve just called him [N/N]? Only Eddie ever called him that, so hearing that nickname come out of Steve Harrington's mouth was a little mindboggling. He let out a grunt when Steve stumbled straight into his arms, causing him to drop his helmet to the ground just to steady him while Steve’s hands bunched into the fabric of his jacket. His breath caught when Steve’s grip slid up his back and he buried his face into [M/N]’s neck, almost like he was trying to crawl under his skin.

"Steve? What are you-hey!" he tried to push him back enough to get a better look at his face, but Steve only curled tighter against him, his hold increasing as if pulling him away would physically hurt.

"No." [M/N] blinked.

"No?" every time he tried to angle his head to see him, Steve only pressed his face deeper into the crook of his neck. It wasn’t until [M/N] managed to slide a hand up to the side of Steve’s neck, his thumb brushing along his jaw, that Steve finally pulled back-just enough to lean his face into the palm of [M/N]’s hand. The closer look made [M/N]’s own expression fall. His eyes were bloodshot, his left eye swollen badly enough that he could barely keep it open. His lip was split, and his hair was flatter than usual, like someone had grabbed at it too many times. If [M/N] hadn’t been holding him upright, he was fairly certain Steve would already be on the floor. A sharp mix of anguish and rage rose in his chest, but then Steve started giggling. [M/N] blinked, stunned, as Steve’s chest rose and fell with soft laughter while he nuzzled into his hand.

"Have I ever told you how much I like your hands?" [M/N] flinched when Steve’s hand slowly slid up his side. Then Steve’s fingers brushed over the back of his hand, and he hummed softly as he pressed [M/N]’s palm closer to his cheek "They look so warm and nice to hold. You take good care of them." [M/N] couldn’t stop the heat rising to his cheeks when Steve tried to bury his face in his palm instead.

"H-Hey, careful. I don’t want to hurt you..." he murmured weakly, trying to pull his hand back so he wouldn’t accidentally brush against the cut on Steve’s lip, all while ignoring the little whine Steve let out at the loss "You’re not thinking clearly." Steve shook his head.

"Nuh uh, I think about it all the time. Right, Robin?" the girl he had completely forgotten about, too caught up in Steve’s drugged-up affection, let out a laugh as she stumbled into his back.

"He does! He blabbers about you all the time!" she drawled, looping her arms around his shoulders so she could cling to him "He complains about how attractive you are, how cool you are, how funny you are... it gets so annoying sometimes." [M/N] had to wrap an arm around Robin’s waist when he felt her start to slip, which meant he couldn’t defend himself from Steve’s wandering hands due to his other hand keeping Steve upright.

"Yup! I honestly thought I was just jealous of all that, a-and maybe I am, but I really like everything about you!" Steve slurred, which did absolutely nothing good for [M/N]’s heart. Steve’s hands came up to cup his face, his eyes droopy as he stared into his. "You’ve got, like, really intense eyes. Has anyone ever told you that? They’re always... so full of emotion. Like right now." Steve giggled again as his finger gently prodded beneath [M/N]’s eye. Robin joined in on the poking when she noticed the way [M/N]’s face had turned red all the way to the tips of his ears.

"Aw, he’s embarrassed! Harrington made the mighty [M/N] Munson flustered!" she slurred, resting her cheek against his shoulder "I didn’t think anything could get under your skin, [M/N]." Steve laughed as he wrapped his arms around him again, his hands fisting the fabric of his jacket again.

"It’s [N/N], Robin. You know, because it’s cute. Just like him."

"Yeah, he is cute when he isn’t being a jackass." [M/N] let out a strangled noise when they both started calling him [N/N]-he wasn’t used to anyone but Eddie calling him that.

"Guys, please..." he was certain they would have continued their onslaught of teasing if he hadn't noticed the way they both froze, he looked between the two of them then immediately recognized the signs of regurgitation.

"[N/N], my stomach hurts..." his eyes widened when they started dry heaving so he quickly picked them up, bending down to loop his arm around Steve's waist to throw him over his shoulder. As for Robin, he looped his arm around her waist but tucked her under his arm "I think I'm gonna hurl..." Steve almost did but managed to clamp his hand over his mouth before he could.

"Don't! Just hold it in!" he heard them both let out pained noises as he quickly turned on his heel, abandoning his helmet in favor of getting them both quickly to the bathroom to empty their stomachs. He found the bathrooms and didn't stop to check if it was the men's or the women's-he just kicked the doors opened and prayed that there was nobody inside. The instance he set the two down, they scrambled for an empty stall before collapsing to their knees and vomiting into the toilet bowl. He couldn't help but grimace as he looked between the two open stalls, watching them hold onto the toilet lids as they tried to catch their breath, only for another wave of nausea hit them and they were throwing up again "And for once it's not me..." he murmured under his breath as he pressed his fingers to his lips.

He looked into Robin's stall and noticed the way her hair was falling over her face so he stepped in behind her, dropping to his knees and pulling her hair back with both of his hands. Her teary eyes flickered over to him and saw the way he gave a sheepish grin followed by a shrug-she appreciated it because she did not want vomit in her hair. He bunched her hair together and held it in one hand while his other gently rubbed up and down her back, occasionally coming up to squeeze her shoulder. It was only when she started to slow down did he hear the weak little cry coming from the other stall, followed by the soft patter of something hitting the tiled floor.

"[N/N]..." Steve's voice whined out. He sighed but slowly stood to his feet, patting Robin's back a final time before stepping back and peeking his head into Steve's stall. He let out a huff, leaning against the stall wall as he crossed his arms, because the sight of Steve Harrington looking up at him all teary eyed and flushed did something to him-be still my beating heart "My throat hurts..." he mumbled as he tried to wipe the saliva dribbling past the corner of his lips, only to wince when he accidentally brushed against his cut lip.

"Careful, Steve. Wouldn't want to ruin that pretty face of yours even more, hmm?" he ignored the rush of heat spreading across Steve's cheeks as he tugged up his sleeve to carefully wipe away the drool himself, his other hand gently cupping Steve's face to keep his head from falling back.

"You think I'm pretty...?" Steve spoke softly as his eyes watched [M/N] closely, still a little hazy but more focused than before.

"I call you pretty all the time. What? Never believed me the first time I called you pretty boy?"

"Mm, always thought you were making fun of me..." Steve let out a breath as he fully let his head rest in the palm of [M/N]'s hand, trusting him that he wouldn't let go "Could never tell when you were being honest with me or not. You're always so... impossible to read. You could be playing with my feelings right now and I wouldn't even know it." his hand twitched as his face dampened. He kept his one hand holding Steve's face while the other came up and gently brushed his hair out of his face.

"I didn't mean to do that. I don't mean to play with your feelings." the hand in his hair drifted down until both of his hands were cupping Steve's face, forcing him to look at him "I like you, Steve. You've become someone I feel genuine... concern for when I find your face beaten black and blue." Steve's eyes shun with a flicker of something he couldn't quite place. Disbelief? Affection? Relief, maybe?

"Really?" he whispered out, like hearing the confirmation from [M/N] would make something settle in his chest.

"Yes, really. Jesus-I've been riddled with guilt since I realized you guys had never left the mall. And again, I am so sorry I bailed. I didn't want to, but my body-well, you know how fucked up I am." he gives a weak laugh before looking back at Steve, his thumbs brushing gingerly against Steve's cheeks "I have been looking for you guys for hours, and when I did find you two, your face is all mangled. Again! You ever gonna go a year without someone bruising that face of yours?" Steve gave a weak laugh as his own hands came up to grip onto his wrists.

"Maybe. But I do enjoy you looking after me-it's the least you could do with how much I've taken care of you." [M/N] looked at him before the two of them burst into laughter.

"Oh? Is there a debt that I need to repay, Harrington?" he let out a sort of giggle.

"If this is how you're gonna be treating me, then yeah. I'll come to you whenever I feel out of it." he hummed softly, eyes fluttering close to relish in the cool touch of his hands "At least you'd take care of me."

"Got no one else, Harrington?" he felt him shake his head, though it felt more like him nuzzling into his hands again.

"No. My parents are never around, and I've got no friends my age. All I've got is me, myself, and I." he opened his eyes as he looked at [M/N] "You're the only person who hangs out with me everyday." [M/N] saw the sad look on his face again as he confessed how lonely he was-he had a rough idea, but it was almost depressing to hear that he was the only person that he saw regularly.

"Do you... really enjoy me showing up everyday?" Steve nods.

"I do. I really, really do." he let out a breath as his hands slid from [M/N]'s wrists to his elbows, his chest heaving as he stared up at him "I enjoy seeing you walk through the doors. I like listening to you talk about your day. I love knowing that it's me that can get you to smile in that way that sounds real. I just love everything about you." [M/N] couldn't help but let out a breath when he saw Steve leaning in closer.

"Steve, I-" he pulled and saw how Steve's face turned pale again before he quickly pushed [M/N] back, lurching over the toilet bowl and throwing up another wave of vomit into it. [M/N], who was now pressed against the stall wall, was panting heavily at what almost just happened. But slowly, horror dawned on him at what he almost let happen. Was he taking advantage of Steve? He can't be in his right mind if he almost just... he shook his head as he wiped a hand down his face, glancing back at Steve and seeing him quiver as he emptied his stomach. The pain all too familiar with him, so he reached over and gently rubbed his back "It's okay, Steve." this time he let out a pained groan as he spat out the bile and saliva that pooled up in his mouth.

"My head hurts, and my mouth taste disgusting..." [M/N] pressed his lips together as he leaned over him, reaching over and gently brushing Steve's hair back with his knuckles.

"I'm sorry I can't help relieve that pain. I could get you guys some water, yeah? It usually helps-take it from a guy that throws up regularly." he smiled when he heard them both let out a weak laugh "Let me get you guys something to drink. I'll be as quick as I can." he pulls his hand back and pushes himself to his feet, he's turning and just about to exit the stall when he felt Steve's hand grab his wrist. He looked over his shoulder and saw Steve staring up at him again, wiping his face of drool and sick as his grip tightened.

"You'll... you'll come back, right?" he tugged on his arm, [M/N] had to lean down when Steve kept a tight grip on him "You won't disappear again, will you?" he took a deep breath as he lowered himself onto one knee, lifting his hand to rest down on Steve's.

"I'll come right back, I promise." he gives his hand a light squeeze "I promise." he repeats. Steve stares at him like he was trying to find truth to his words, but as he stated before, he could never really tell what was going on in his head. So with a reluctant breath, his hand loosened until he lowered it to his lap.

"Don't be too long." [M/N] gave a smile, his hand reached for Steve's face again before ultimately pulling back.

"I'll try." Steve watched [M/N] stand to his feet, brushing off imaginary dirt from his pants then turned on his heel and walked out of the stall. Though, he wasn't sure if it was the haze of the drugs the Russian's injected into him or not, but was he blushing? He couldn't tell if he actually saw [M/N] blushing-perhaps it was just the lighting play with his mind, or maybe it was the raging concussion thrumming in his brain? God, he really hoped [M/N] came back quickly, he really needed that water and... him.

What is he even thinking? Was his mind really that loose that he... wanted him? I mean, he was clinging pretty badly to the guy when he first found them, and the way he was whining? Oh, fuck-just kill him. He kind of hoped [M/N] didn't come back, because now that he was sobering up, he wasn't sure how he was going to face him. He could just feign ignorance-pretend it never happened at all. [M/N] would probably prefer that, the guy never seems all too eager to share anything when it comes to his feelings. He only ever got the real him when he was at his most vulnerable, and even still, he always seemed reluctant to share his grievances. He groaned as he clutched his head, his emotions kicking into overdrive and just confusing him.

"The ceiling stopped spinning for me." he glanced to his right at the sound of Robin's voice, her voice small and weakly amused "Is it still spinning for you?" he took a breath as he looked up at the ceiling, his head pressing against the tiled wall behind him.

"Holy shit, no." he rubbed his face as he took a deep breath "You think we puked it all up?"

"Maybe. Ask me something. Interrogate me." she added, faking a Russian accent just for the fun of it, which was enough to inflict a small chuckle from him.

"Okay. Interrogate you. Sure. Um..." there was a moment of silence as he thought of something, he then grinned and looked back towards the wall separating them "When was the last time you peed your pants?"

"Today." the immediate response made him pause.

"What?"

"When the Russian doctor took out the bone saw." Steve continued to stare at the wall before bursting into laughter.

"Oh my god." Robin giggled, laying flat on her back as her legs sat against her stall wall.

"It was just a little bit though." Steve shook his head at her admission.

"Yeah, it's still in her system." they continued to laugh until another groan sounded out through the bathroom.

"Oh... alright, my turn." she took her time as she thought of something to say, stewing over anything that came to mind before finally speaking up "Have you... ever been in love?" this innocent question made Steve hesitate and for a moment, his expression flickered with a dozen of thoughts before settling with one.

"Yep. Nancy Wheeler. First semester year." he then raised his hands, making a finger gun, and pointing it towards his heart "Bang." he then made the gunshot sound, chuckling as he slumped against the wall. Robin groans from her stall, long and drawled out.

"Oh my god, she's such a priss." Steve laughed under his breath.

"Hmm. Turns out, not really."

"Are you still in love with Nancy?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"Because she found someone better for her." his voice softened as he stared down at his hands "Because I need to find someone better for me. It's crazy. Ever since Dustin got home, he's been saying, 'You know, you gotta find your Susie. You gotta find your Susie.'. And even Munson has been giving me relationship advice." she furrowed her brows in confusion.

"Wait, who's Susie?"

"It's some girl from camp, I guess. His girlfriend." he sighed as he pinched his nose "To be honest with you, I'm not one hundred percent sure she's even real. But that's not-that's not really the point. And [M/N] keeps telling me to just be honest and be myself, which is rich coming from him of all people. Don't you agree?" she laughed softly when he started complaining about him.

"[M/N]? What happened to [N/N], hmm? You were pretty insistent that's what we should call him." she couldn't see him because of the wall, but telling how his breath hitched when she brought that up, she could tell that he was flustered.

"Shut up, Buckley." his head thumped against the wall against as he screwed his eyes shut "God, I was such an idiot back in high school. Maybe if I wasn't friends with Tommy H. and Carol Perkins, I wouldn't be clinging to the guy who once threatened my entire bloodline. Maybe if I had been friends with him instead, I could've been a better person. I mean, look at me now. I've got no friends my age, I hang out with a bunch of middle school kids, my ex is dating the guy that kicked my ass and every girl I talk to wants nothing to do with me."

"And your point is?"

"My point is that... [M/N] brought out a part of me that I didn't even know I was hiding." he messed with his hair as he let out a sigh "As of lately, all I've been thinking about is him and it's been-I don't know, driving me crazy. When I saw you two being all chummy and touchy I just... I felt angry, for some reason. At him? At you? God, it's stupid. I felt jealous over him being so close to you-I've been so jealous of him getting close to other girls too, and I just... I don't like." he rambled on for longer than he would have liked but waited for Robin to call him stupid or a dingus, as she did so often, but all he got was silence "Robin? Robin, did you OD in there?" he asked, knocking his fist against the wall twice.

"No. I am... still alive." she answered. Steve huffed and dropped to the floor, grabbing the underside of the stall and slid under into her stall, ignoring the grime and god knows what coating the floor "The floor's disgusting." she murmured in mild disgust as he pulled himself up and leaned against the wall opposite to her.

"Yeah, well, I already got a bunch of blood and puke on my shirt, so..." he threw his hands up as he shrugged his shoulders, his grin tired but there. Robin chuckled, her laughing echoing off the bathroom walls as she stared at him "I sound stupid, don't I? Rambling about a guy who probably doesn't even think about me as much as I think about him." Robin took a breath, her head tipping to the side as she watched Steve closely.

"Steve..."

"God, he probably fucked off after that pathetic display. He probably won't even want to see me again-he probably thinks I'm weird." Robin huffed out a laugh as she watched Steve have a mid life crisis.

"If he thought you were weird, he wouldn't have put up with you the way that he did." she bit her lip as she looked out the stall to where [M/N] had disappeared "Do you... really not notice, Steve?" he lifted his head and looked up at her.

"Notice what?" her gazed softened a bit.

"The way he looks at you." he scoffed.

"What, like an idiot?" she laughed.

"Well, that too, but no." she took a breath, nervous about stepping over a line that he wasn't sure existed "No, he looks at you as if you're the sun." this made him pause as he slowly registered her words, he then raised his eyes and looked at her confused.

"What... does that mean?" she rubbed her face as she tried to think of the words to explain.

"I've never really seen Munson interested in anything or anyone that wasn't his dad, his cousin. his bike or baseball. There's this sort of... light in his eye that sparkles whenever he's around any of them." her eyes flicker up towards him as she continued to speak, watching his face in case she saw anything negative so much as twitch "And you know what they all have in common?" he furrows his brows.

"What?"

"He loves them. You know how much he loves his dad and Eddie-not to mention that he calls his bike his baby, and how much he loves playing baseball." she runs a hand through her hair "So imagine the way he looks at you like he adores you. And even now, the way he was looking at you when he saw your face beat to shit? He looked ready to find those Russians that did it and murder them." Steve shook his head.

"You don't know what you're talking about, Buckley. He doesn't-he wouldn't-"

"I know more than you think." he looked at her confused, shaking his head as he hadn't quite connected the dots yet.

"I don't-what do you-" the longer he stared at her the more he saw the way her eyes softened in a terrified way-her eyes red and brimming with tears that weren't from the drugs this time.

"Steve..." she whispered weakly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Yeah?" she looked at him with expectant eyes, begging for him to understand the truth of her words. So, he slowly started putting things together.

He had never really noticed the way [M/N] looked at him. Maybe it was because Steve had gotten used to it.

[M/N] always came to Scoops Ahoy with the excuse of free ice cream and the air conditioning, but he never just ate and left. He always stuck around until the very end, always found some excuse to stay long enough to have at least one conversation with Steve-even if that conversation mostly consisted of [M/N] making fun of him.

Maybe Steve had noticed. Maybe he'd just never let himself think too hard about it. Maybe thinking about it scared him.

Was he really jealous whenever [M/N] got close to Robin or talked to those other girls? Not because [M/N] was holding Robin-not because he looked at her softly or treaed her sweetly. Steve wasn't angry at [M/N] for doing any of that, he was angry because the attention wasn't on him. Because he wanted [M/N] to hold him like that, he wanted [M/N] to look at him like that.

Sweetly. Fondly. Like there was something about Steve worth lingering over.

Maybe that was why it had felt so good when he'd stumbled into [M/N]'s arms earlier, why he'd refused to let him go, why his entire body seemed to relax the second [M/N]'s hands were on him, why he'd leaned into the warmth of his palm without even thinking about it.

Because he wanted it.

He wanted [M/N].

Because he...

"Oh..."

"Oh..." Robin nodded as she echoed his words, she watched as the same heat from before rose to his cheeks when she could tell his thoughts started getting flooded with thoughts of [M/N] Munson, though she couldn't help but be a tease "So, what are you thinking about?" he just slapped a hand against his face before slowly dragging it down.

"So many missed signals." she couldn't help but laugh.

"Don't worry, I don't even think he was aware he was doing it half the time. I think he was just as unaware of his feelings as you were." Steve nodded his head and gave a little smile.

"That makes me feel a little better." a silence settled over them as Steve took in the new information of himself, he then picked at the dirt in his nails before speaking up again "So, um, what about you? Who did you..." he shrugged his shoulders as if to say that he was fine if she didn't tell him about who was on her mind-just because he finally realized that there was something brewing between himself and [M/N], it didn't mean Robin had to share the deepest part of herself. She finally looked away from Steve, her finger tapping against her knee as she thought for a moment.

"... do you remember what I said about Mrs. Clicks class? About me being jealous, and, like obsessed?" he tilted his head but nodded.

"Yeah."

"It isn't because I had a crush on you." she took a deep breath "It's because... she wouldn't stop staring at you."

"Mrs. Click?" she chuckled.

"Tammy Thompson." her back slumped back against the wall "I wanted her to look at me. But... she couldn’t pull her eyes away from you and your stupid hair. And I didn’t understand, because you would get bagel crumbs all over the floor. And you asked dumb questions. And you were a douchebag. And... and you didn’t even like her and... I would go home and just scream into my pillow." as she spoke she could feel her eyes stinging with unshed tears, angry and upset that the girl she liked would never, ever give her the time of day. Unlike Steve, who's come to terms that there was a guy he had feelings for who just might feel the same about him.

"So... Tammy Thompson, huh?" he nodded his head as he tried to wrap his head around the attraction "You know, she’s cute and all, but... I mean, she’s a total dud." her eyes widened at his words as she shakes her head, getting defensive of her crush.

"She is not."

"Yes, she is." he laughs softly, not mockingly "Yes, she is. She wants to be, like, a singer. She wants to move to, like, Nashville and shit."

"She has dreams." she tries to defend but can't help the smile from spreading across her face.

"She can’t even hold a tune. She’s practically tone-deaf. Have you heard her?" she rolled her eyes then shoved his leg.

"Oh? You're gonna criticize my crush on Tammy Thompson like yours on Munson isn't just as bad?" her head tips back again when she laughed "I never thought of you as the type to be into tall and brooding."

"[M/N] doesn't brood, he just gets lost in his thoughts sometimes."

"That's exactly what brooding is!" they're both laughing this time as they actively made fun of each other's crushes-Steve calling Tammy a Muppet giving birth while singing "Total Eclipse of the Heart" terribly-Robin in turn tries to mimic the way [M/N] talks and attempts to flirt with Steve but can barely get the words out before they're both bursting out into laughter "You're taking your sudden attraction to men rather well, Steve. I thought you'd be freaking out." the next laugh that came out of him sounded shaky.

"Oh, no. I think some of the drugs are still left in my system, so I don't think I'm crashing as hard as I think I should." he lifted a shaky hand and squeezed his forehead "I-I'm... I'm actually pretty scared. Like I know I have some sort of attraction towards guys, b-but I still like girls. I don't imagine [M/N] as a girl when I think of him and when I want to do stuff with him. I want to look at him without feeling like it's wrong. I want to hold his hand and not feel ashamed. I want to just..." he doesn't finish his sentence when his hand covered his mouth but she got the idea.

"I get it, Steve. I really do. But..." she offered her hand to him with a reassuring smile "at least you aren't alone." he stared at her hand for a moment before finally taking her hand.

"Thanks Robin." she winked at him.

"No problem, dingus." he rolled his eyes but squeezed her hand to let her know he appreciated it. Well, that was until she decided to ruin the moment "But still, [M/N]? Really?" he stared at her before snatching his hand back while shoving her back.

"Oh, fuck off! Tammy Thompson is ever worse than [M/N]!"

"Just because you slept with her doesn't mean it's true!"

"I haven't slept with [M/N] but I know he's better!"

"And how would you know that unless you've slept with him?!"

"Intuition!" by the time Dustin and Erica found the two they were no longer speaking about their crushes and were just laughing, only acknowledging the two when Dustin spoke up.

"Okay. What the hell?" they look at each other again before dissolving into another fit of laughter. Dustin shook his head as he approached the two while Erica hung by the entrance, acting as the lookout so they wouldn't get locked in the bathroom if the Russians somehow found them "Please tell me you guys are back to normal? I don't think I can handle another disappearing act with the amount of stress you guys have given me." Steve scoffed as he leaned back against the stall.

"Now you know how I feel looking after you little shits." Dustin chooses to ignore that.

"If you nerds are done, I think it's best if we get out of here." Erica told them as she peeked out the door to check if they were possibly followed "I don't want to be here if one of those Russian guys or some poor idiot decides to walk in here. So, if you idiots are done being idiots, let's go." Steve immediately shook his head, inflicting a small groan when it felt like his brain rattled in his skull.

"We can't. [M/N] isn't back yet." Dustin raised a brow.

"[M/N]? He was here?"

"Yes, so we need to wait for him." Erica shook her head.

"I don't think that's smart. Those Russians don't know about him being associated with us, so I think it would be better if we don't get him involved with this."

"B-But-we can't. He might think we abandoned him."

"Then would you rather we put his life in danger just because you didn't want to leave him out of it?" he paused at her words as he took in the new perspective. On one hand, he wanted [M/N] to come back and take care of him like he promised-on the other, he couldn't stand the thought of [M/N] getting caught up in this Upside Down bullshit just because he wanted to be safe in his arms again.

"I... I just-" his breath hitched when Robin took his hand.

"Steve, I think it's for the best." she pats his knee this time "It's for the best." she repeats and watched his face crumble before nodding.

"Alright. Let's... let's go." after a moment Dustin helped them both to their feet, giving them some time for them to regain some motor functions before tugging them towards the bathroom door, the four of them peeking out to check if there was anybody that looked even remotely like a Russian soldier, and when they saw that the coast was clear they made their move. Steve, however, hesitated for just a split second as he scanned the mall for any sign of [M/N]. Maybe he'll appear just rounding the corner with water in hand, just like he promised. Or maybe he'll hear his footsteps from behind rushing up to them, apologizing for taking so long. But neither scenario happened and he was left feeling depraved of seeing the guy who had apparently captured his heart, and that hurt more than he'd like to admit. So despite his reluctance to leave and the gentle tug on his arm by Robin, he finally moved his legs and left with an ache in his heart.

What none of them realized was that [M/N] had appeared ages ago-he had appeared the moment Steve and Robin started talking about himself and Tammy Thompson. The instance he heard Steve's heartfelt confession followed by Robin's own, he didn't have it in him to interrupt their moment. He felt his face burn red just hearing them Steve talk about how he was better than Tammy Thompson-it did inflate his ego and that bar wasn't particularly high-but just Steve talking about all the stuff he wanted to do without feeling ashamed, it made his own heart stutter. Then Wayne's own words echoed in his head, how Steve could be attracted to him and now that he had the confirmation that it was true, what was stopping him?

A lot, actually.

There was a reason he remained single and that wasn't because his sexual attraction towards men hindered his attractive towards women-honestly, both tasted the same to him and he didn't really care. What he did care about was not being completely truthful with his potential partner. He didn't have it in him to be in a romantic relationship with someone and not giving them his whole heart because of the deepest and darkest secret that plagued his body and mind. It wasn't that he was ashamed of Venom, he genuinely loved the symbiote because he was the only form of partnership he had where he could be himself-Wayne being the only human exception. So he accepted the fact that he'd be alone if it meant he didn't deceive the love of his life.

But Steve... Steve was different. He already knew the truth about the other world and the monsters that lurked in the dark, he was already aware that this town wasn't normal and that people with inhuman abilities existed and that he was one of them-not that Steve knew that part. So maybe if he decided to give his heart to him-if he decided to give up the most vulnerable part of himself to the man that already knew just how broken he was, maybe he'd get to experience what love really felt like. God, he felt like those women in all those sappy romance novels Venom liked to read.

He had hesitated and nearly stepped in until he heard footsteps rushing towards him, so he quickly stepped away and hid behind a wall just as Dustin and Erica appeared. The brief conversation of Erica telling them they should leave and how Steve said that they were waiting for him to come back, that nearly broke his composure and step in once more but held back when Erica spoke about how they shouldn't involve him-how the Russians were only aware of them and not [M/N] and they would be better off not involving him and potentially putting his life at risk. He heard the hesitation in Steve's voice, how they couldn't just leave because [M/N] was coming back-he promised he would. But in the end, he was won over because he wanted [M/N] to be safe an uninvolved with the nightmare that came from living in this shitty town.

So, as Steve and the rest of the group disappeared from the bathroom, [M/N] peeked out from the corner of the wall he was hiding behind and watched them go. He wanted to go after them, he wanted to fulfill his promise to Steve of his return but the cowardice that plagued his mind stopped him from reaching out. It always got him in the end and prevented him from helping. He knew deep inside of him that he loved Steve, but he didn't love him enough that he'd give up everything like he would for Wayne and Eddie. Maybe he would someday, but that day wasn't today.

"Are we going home now?" Venom asked deep in his head. He watched as [M/N] remained rooted to his spot, his hands curling around the water bottles he bought before eventually dropping to his sides.

"Yeah, let's go home." his shoulders slumped as he finally left, sparing one final glance in the direction Steve and the others disappeared to. When he stepped outside of the mall he stared up at the night sky, watching the stars twinkle in the night sky. There was still plenty of people around but it was much quieter outside the mall, allowing him to finally take in the much needed breath after hours of noise overwhelming him. He doesn't leave for his bike, he instead turns towards Steve's car and walks towards it. He sets down the two water bottles on the hood of his car then hesitated for a moment until unclipping the walkie-talkie from his belt, turning it over in his hand then setting it down flat beside them.

"You don't want to keep it in case they call again?" he shrugged.

"Eh. They don't want me even more involved than I already am. Might as well give this back to them since I won't be needing it anymore." his hand pressed down against the hood before he pushed off against it and made his way towards his bike.

"Are you upset that you lost your chance to be honest with them? With him?" he paused just in front of his bike as Venom's words rattled something in his head, because he did lose his chance. He lost his chance to come clean to the only group that would understand what was wrong with him. Maybe they'd be freaked out because he was connected to the thing they fought the previous year, but they'd understand in the end. He could still turn around and find Steve and the others again, to be out with the biggest secret he's been hiding for so many years, but... he just didn't have it in him "Pussy." he closed his eyes.

"I know, Venom. I know." he picked up his helmet, hesitating for one final time but eventually he lowered his head and put his helmet on.

The drive back to the trailer park was calming in a way-just feeling the cold wind blow past him as he sped down the empty roads, only on a few occasions would a car drive in the opposite lane and towards the mall or just the general direction he came from. He drove through the town, past the Forest Hills Park, away from the Hawkins National Laboratory and towards the trailer park before finally pulling up to their trailer. As expected, Wayne's truck was gone and Eddie's van was fortunately nowhere in sight-he wasn't home yet. He switched his bike off but he didn't hop off just yet, he instead slipped his helmet off and stared up at the sky again.

The stars and the moon were the first thing he saw when he escaped the lab, that light in the sky he almost forgot about when he was locked up. The sun was always too blazing and hot for him to really like so that's why he favored the moon instead. He could lay out at night and stare up at the star lit sky for hours but right now he was exhausted and he wanted nothing more than to collapse onto his bed before Eddie got home, so finally, he stepped off his bike and pushed it out of the way so Eddie wouldn't accidentally ram into it when he got home. When he stepped into the trailer he didn't bother flicking on the lights, he simply dumped his stuff on the floor beside his bed, that Wayne luckily didn't fold back into the couch, but he did make it and set a glass of water and his medicine on the bedside table. God, did he love that man.

After taking it, he simply collapsed onto the sheets then pulled them around him as the weight of the day came crashing down on him. The realization that the feelings inside of him whenever he was around Steve was because he felt some sort of attraction towards him that wasn't just friendship, but in actuality, it was love. And then finding the same man that made him feel like he could experience what love truly felt like, broken and bleeding and confused because he had abandoned him, even if it was unintentional. And then it turned out the same man, even though he was confused and never thought he could feel such feelings for a man, felt the same way about him. And yet, even when he learned the truth that maybe he could actually fall in love with someone without being burdened with the truth he carried for so many years, he didn't take it. And maybe he was going to regret not taking that one little leap-that one little opening to be completely honest for once-and be burdened with that as well.

He just wished he could be honest.

But instead, he was going to curl up in his bed and cry like he always did when things go too overwhelming.

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