I Have This Idea In My Head. It's Not A Steddie One, But I Have This Idea That Jason Discovers He Likes

I have this idea in my head. It's not a Steddie one, but I have this idea that Jason discovers he likes boys. Because he's always been taught to hate queer people he has no idea what to do with himself. Then he discovers he finds Eddie attractive, like insanely attractive. And he starts to not hate Eddie, he starts to get curious about Eddie, but because of his taught beliefs he still acts like he hates Eddie. But secretly he's always watching Eddie, secretly he's going to Eddie's shows. Maybe I'm crazy for having this idea in my head, but can anybody else see it?

Chapters: 14/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Wayne Munson Additional Tags: Steve Harrington Has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Canonical Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Bisexual Eddie Munson Summary:

Decided to do a Steddie one shot. Might do more, requests are open if you'd like me to make one for you

Soulmate

Steve stared at the spattering of black ink on his arm. His soulmate tattoo. Everybody had heard the stories of a soulmate tattoo. A tattoo that appeared when you were ready for it, when something had happened in your life that opened you up to the possibility and idea of having a soulmate. But soulmate tattoos had died out. They'd been around for centuries, but in the past 50 years, they'd died out.

But there Steve's was. On the inside of his right forearm, which meant no way of hiding it unless he wore long sleeves. The date of birth of his soulmate, inked into his skin forever. July 31st, 1965. He didn't know many people's birthdays, so he wasn't sure who his soulmate was. What he did know was that his soulmate was at least a year older than him, almost 21.

And conveniently, his soulmate tattoo had appeared right after he'd come to the realization that he was bisexual. That had to mean his soulmate was a boy, right? That had to be the significant event in his life that had opened him up to the idea of his soulmate. 

Steve sucked in a breath before pulling himself off his bed to get ready. There was a pep rally at Hawkins High today and Robin had begged him to go with her. He couldn't say no to her, she was his best friend and he knew she was nervous about being around Vicky. He pulled on some jeans and a striped polo shirt, before deciding to switch it for a soft yellow sweater. 

He fussed over his hair for an hour before darting out the door to pick up Robin. On the drive to school Robin was rambling like usual. And normally Steve didn't mind but his own thoughts were swirling and eventually he needed to get it out, needed to talk to her about it.

"I have a soulmate tattoo."

Robin snapped her mouth shut in the middle of her sentence, eyes wide as she whipped her head around to face him.

"Seriously?"

Steve nodded. Robin knew Steve was not the type to go and get a tattoo.

"Show me."

Steve sighed before rolling up his sleeve. The black ink was vibrant against his skin, glaringly obvious that it was there.

"July 31st, 1965."

"Yeah."

Steve rolled down his sleeve.

"But how? I mean soulmate tattoos have literally died out."

"I don't know. But it's there. And it. It showed up right after I. Right after I um."

"Right after you what Steve?"

"Right after I figured out I'm bisexual."

Robin drew in a sharp breath.

"So that means your soulmate is a boy. If your soulmate is a boy, that is definitely a significant event that would open you up to the idea of having a soulmate."

"So we both agree that my soulmate is a boy."

"Definitely. But I don't know anybody with that birthday. They'd have to be graduated by now, I mean they'd almost be 21."

Steve just shrugged.

"How am I supposed to figure that out? I can't just go around to every guy and say hey, when's your birthday?"

"I mean you could."

Steve fixed her with a glare.

"Or you could not. What you could do is show off the tattoo, let the person find you."

"Yeah, and then my parents would freak if they found that I not only had a soulmate tattoo but that my soulmate is a boy."

"Steve, when have your parents ever given a shit?"

"I mean fair, but I don't think they want a queer for a son."

"You can't exactly change who you are."

Steve sighs.

"I know. It's just. Another way to disappointment them."

"I think it's a big fuck you to them. Like hey, you were shitty parents, so shitty that God gave you a queer for a kid."

Steve couldn't help the laugh that bubbled out of him.

"That does sound nice."

Robin smiles. 

"Just be you. Show off that tattoo. Find your soulmate."

"I'll try."

Once they arrived at the school they barreled into the gym for the pep rally. Robin had to go and change to join her band, so Steve found a seat in the crowded bleachers. For the most part the pep rally was quite boring and annoying, but he gave Robin a thumbs up every time she looked his way.

When it was over they ended up going to the cafeteria for lunch. He'd rolled up his sleeves now, showing off his soulmate tattoo. He was knee deep in a conversation with Robin when a sound caught his attention. Eddie Munson was on top of a table, doing ome of his non conforming speeches, yet again.

"But as long as you're into baaaand or. Scieeence or. Paaaarties," he says sarcastically. Then he cupped his hands around his mouth to amplify his voice.

"Or a gaaaaaaame where you toss baaaaaalls into laundry baskets!" He shouts at the basketball team. Jason Carver, the captain of the team stood up. 

"You want something Freak?"

Eddie just grinned at him, put his fingers on his head like horns, stuck his tongue out and made a demon sound. Jason muttered something before sitting back down. Eddie had turned around and was walking across the table again.

"It's forced conforming. That's what's killiiiing the kiiiids!" He shouts, jumping down in front of a teacher who jumped and placed her hand over her heart before walking away. Then Eddie took a step back and swept his arm out, bowing for the two cheerleaders to walk past him. Then he was sitting down with his friends again.

It hit Steve then. Eddie Munson was 20 years old. He wasn't exactly sure what Eddie's birthday was, but he fit the age. And then Steve shook his head. That wasn't right. There was no way Eddie Munson of all people would be Steve's soulmate.

The man didn't hide his queerness but Steve and Eddie were complete opposites. Eddie was the metalhead, the nerd the town Freak. And Steve, although he'd changed and become a better person, was nothing like Eddie. He was a jock, something Eddie clearly didn't like.

He was a little more boyish, a little more softer, while Eddie was wild, chaotic, dramatic. Always theatrical. They had next to nothing in common and Steve had never actually spoken to the other boy before. Eddie was up again, walking around the table and talking to his friends. And then their eyes connected.

It was only a brief moment and Steve was the first to look away. But he didn't miss the way Eddie's eyes dropped to Steve's soulmate tattoo. He was too far away to see what birthday was written, but he could almost feel the curiosity coming off of him, even though he was halfway across the cafeteria.

Steve didn't see Eddie again until later that evening. He was working an evening shift at Family Video. This time he was working alone since it was a fairly slow Thursday. He was so bored that he was leaning against the counter reading a sports magazine when the bell above the door rang, signaling a customer.

"Welcome to Family Video," Steve says without looking up from the magazine.

"Is that how a King greets his subjects?"

The voice had Steve's head snapping up, eyes locking with a pair of beautiful vibrant chocolate brown eyes. Eddie's eyes. Eddie's lips curled into a smirk, and were they always that soft and full? Steve wasn't sure why he was thinking that. He'd never been this close to Eddie before, not even when they had a few classes together before Steve graduated. A snort escaped from Steve.

"I'm not the king anymore Munson," he says shaking his head and setting aside the magazine. The movement drew Eddie's eyes to Steve's soulmate tattoo that was now in view. And then his eyes widened, mouth dropping open in shock. Steve raised an eyebrow.

"Cat got your tongue?"

Eddie's eyes snapped back to Steve's, mouth shutting and jaw clenching. And dammit, Eddie had a perfectly sharp jawline.

"What is that?" He says jabbing a ringed finger to Steve's soulmate tattoo. Steve shifted uncomfortably.

"My soulmate tattoo."

"You're kidding right?"

Steve frowned.

"Why would I be kidding?"

Eddie licked his thumb and rubbed it across Steve's tattoo.

"Dude what are you doing?"

He pulled his arm away, and he could see more shock registering on Eddie's face when the tattoo didn't smudge or rub off.

"Gee Harrington, I didn't think you were the type to get a tattoo."

"I'm not. I didn't get this done, it just. Appeared. It's a soulmate tattoo, why does that bother you so much?"

Eddie's lips pressed into a thin line, leaning forward to rest his elbows on the counter.

"Because Stevie. That's my birthday."

Steve blinked a few times, the words barely registering. When they did, Steve sucked in a breath.

"Well I'm sure lots of people have the same birthday."

"Do lots of people have this birthday?" Eddie says pulling down the collar of his shirt. There, etched onto his collarbone was a birthday. A soulmate tattoo. Steve's birthday. February 10th, 1966. Steve sucked in his own breath.

"That's my birthday."

His voice was soft and quiet when he spoke and Eddie let go of his shirt, covering up the tattoo again.

"I thought you were straight."

Eddie was blunt, straight forward.

"I'm bisexual. Sort of just figured that out. And when I did. Well that appeared," he says waving his hand to his soulmate tattoo. Eddie rocked forward, leaning closer.

"You know this makes us the first people to have soulmate tattoos in like 50 years?"

"That's what you're taking away from this?"

"I mean think about it. It's 1986, people hate queers. What better way to make society accept queers than by binding two queers together?"

Steve blinked.

"I hate that that makes sense."

Eddie snorted, a manic laugh escaping him.

"How are we even soulmates man? We're so opposite."

Eddie patted Steve's shoulder. 

"Oh trust me big boy. I've had my eye on you for quite some time."

Steve's cheeks flushed a shade of red. Because he'd be lying if he said being called big boy didn't do something to him. Especially in Eddie's voice.

"When did your soulmate tattoo appear?"

Eddie tilted his head, a thoughtful look crossing his features. 

"84. When I saw you in your Scoops Ahoy uniform the first time. Well after obviously. Kind of dumb that I didn't figure it out then. That was when I figured out I had a hardcore crush on you."

Eddie's cheeks were flushed pink now, and he looked smaller, shy as he pulled a piece of hair in front of his face. He looked adorable. Cute.

"So that was your significant event then."

"Guess so."

"So. What now?"

Eddie was grinning again, eyes dancing with excitement, and he reached over, patting Steve's cheek.

"We get to know each other Stevie boy. There's a reason we're soulmates."

Steve's cheeks flushed again. He wasn't used to all the physical touching.

"Right. Yeah, right."

Eddie laughed, a bright and beautiful sound, before sweeping his arm out in front of him, heading for the door. 

"I'll see you around pretty boy."

And with that he was gone, bounding out the door, while Steve watched, with his mouth hanging open and looking like a deer caught in headlights.

(Let me know if I should make this a two parter. I'm thinking I will probably)

Chapters: 11/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Wayne Munson Additional Tags: Steve Harrington Has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Canonical Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Bisexual Eddie Munson Summary:

It was a week later, another Saturday. Steve had invited everyone over for a movie party, ordering pizza and gathering movies to watch. He'd already talked to Eddie about coming out, what they were to each other and Eddie had expressed that he wanted them to be together, which Steve very much agreed to. 

With the living room now set up, there was popcorn made, pizza on its way, sleeping bags sprawled out on the floor, the tv set up with the first movie. And everybody was getting settled, Dustin, Will, Max, Lucas and Mike were on the floor with the sleeping bags. Nancy, Jonathon and Robin were settled around the couch. And then there was Steve and Eddie.

Eddie had sprawled out on the couch and then opened his arms. And Steve smiled, immediately climbing into Eddie's arms and settling on top of him, head on Eddie's chest. Eddie's arms wrapped around him, fingers tangling in Steve's hair to play with it, and lips dropping a kiss to the top of Steve's head.

Everybody was too busy talking to notice what Eddie and Steve were doing and then the movie was playing. They were content to lay like this, not hiding anything but waiting to see how long it would take everyone to figure it out. It was ten minutes into the movie when Dustin turned around to tell Eddie something, but the words got stuck in his throat, mouth dropping open in shock.

And then Eddie and Steve were laughing, which caught everyone else's attention. Everybody was in shock except for Robin, because she already knew. Steve was laughing so hard now that snorts were escaping and he buried his face in Eddie's chest, shoulders shaking from the laughter.

"You're adorable when you snort," Eddie says smiling as he playfully pokes Steve's side. Steve huffed, playfully swatting Eddie's hand away.

"What the fuck is going on?" Dustin says.

"Hey, language," Steve says lifting his head from Eddie's chest now. Dustin started protesting, everybody started asking questions and then the doorbell rang. And Steve got up, but before he headed for the door to get the pizza, he kissed Eddie. Right on the lips.

The room erupted in a chorus of gasps and exclamations of shock, but Steve just smiled.

"Oh by the way, I'm bisexual, and Eddie and I are dating."

He knew his friends would accept it, they were just surprised right now. And sure enough, once their bellies were full of pizza and they were on the second movie they all spoke their happiness and congratulations.

Everybody ended up staying the night and of course Steve and Eddie shared Steve's bedroom. But it was two days later when Steve's parents came home. Richard and Charlotte Harrington were the epitome of perfect rich life. They were never the best parents, always leaving Steve alone while they went on business trips, they didn't really act like parents, his father wanted him to work for his company and his mother was upset he didn't have the grades to go to college.

Suffice to say, the tension in the air when they returned was thick. Steve was making himself lunch when his parents sat down. They let him finish and sit himself down before his father cleared his throat.

"Steve we need to talk to you."

"About what?"

"About your future."

Steve's body stiffened. He had a future. He didn't want one predetermined by his parents. He was happy with his life, working at Family Video with Robin, his beautiful relationship with Eddie, spending time with his friends. He was happy and he didn't want it to change.

"I have a future," Steve snipped.

"Working at a video rental store for four dollars an hour is not a future Steven," his mother says.

"I like my life. I'm not changing it to fit your expectations."

"Steve your future has already been decided," his father says firmly. Steve paused, eyes flicking up to meet his fathers. 

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?"

"You're going to quit your job and come to my company. And you're going to marry a nice girl, in three months time. Her name is Marissa, she's from Indianapolis and she's already agreed to the marriage."

Steve's world came crashing down. He blinked. Once. Twice.

"You're fucking with me."

His voice was quiet now. He didn't want to believe this, he didn't want that life. He didn't want to end up like the Wheelers, in an unhappy marriage, when he was so utterly happy with Eddie.

"This is happening Steven. It's been decided," his mother says reaching out to take his hand. He quickly snatched it away, anger and fear beginning to seep in.

"No. No, it is not happening."

He stood up.

"I am not marrying some random girl that I don't know! I am not going to end up in an unhappy marriage with a job that I hate! This is my life! And you know what? You can cut me off from your money, you can take my car. But I am happy where I am. And for the record. I'm already in a relationship."

His parents stared at him for a moment in surprise.

"Well is she nice?"

Steve scoffed. His parents were not exactly fond of queers. But Steve didn't care.

"He. He is wonderful. Guess I forgot to tell you. I'm bisexual. I like guys just as much as I like girls, and I am in a happy relationship. With a man."

His father sucked in a breath and his mother looked like she'd been slapped.

"You will end that. Immediately. Not in this family, never. You will marry Marissa," his father hissed.

"Or what? Do your worst. I'm not marrying her. And if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go spend the night with my boyfriend."

Steve turned on his heel and grabbed his keys, slipping his shoes on and exiting. The drive to Eddie's trailer felt longer than it actually was and he could feel tears stinging in the corners of his eyes. He didn't want any of this. He just wanted to live his life the way he wanted to.

And yes, he was terrified of losing his home, his car, his money and admittedly, he still had hoped his parents cared about him at all. But that hope was dashed now. He was terrified of losing those things, but Eddie was worth it. His life was worth it. He would stay with Eddie, whether he was broke or rich, or homeless or not. Nothing mattered except Eddie.

When he arrived the tears were freely falling and when Eddie opened the door, concern immediately crossed his features.

"Steve?"

Steve sucked in a watery breath.

"Can I come in?"

"Of course."

Eddie stepped aside, allowing Steve to enter, and closed the door behind him. Then his hands were on Steve's face, soft and gentle, brushing away his falling tears.

"Sweetheart what's wrong?"

The nickname had his heart fluttering and the dam broke. He told Eddie everything his parents had told him, everything that he told his parents and that he was afraid of what he was going to do with his life now. And Eddie held him, arms wrapping around him, lips planting kisses on the top of his head and whispering soft words of reassurance.

"We're gonna figure everything out ok? I promise. Everything's gonna be ok baby. I'm right here."

Steve clung to Eddie.

"I don't want to marry some girl. I want to be with you, I'm happy with you."

Eddie cupped his cheeks again, allowing Steve to look at him.

"And we are staying together. No matter what. You and me sweetheart, you and me. No one's gonna take that away from us. They can't make you do it."

Steve nodded and Eddie brushed away the rest of his tears. Once Steve was clam enough, Eddie let Steve borrow some clothes, a pair of sweats and his Iron Maiden tshirt and then he was cuddling up with Steve in his bed, gently playing with his hair.

"Sleep Steve. I'll be right here."

Somehow, Eddie knew that he was exhausted. And he loved that. He loved everything about Eddie. He loved Eddie. That realization had Steve relaxing. He loved Eddie. In Eddie's arms, he was safe. Happy. Wanted. Accepted. Adored. In Eddie's arms was the only place he wanted to be. And slowly, he drifted off.

Chapters: 9/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Wayne Munson Additional Tags: Steve Harrington Has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Canonical Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Bisexual Eddie Munson Summary:

Forbidden Love Part Six

Steve was riding the high of last night's date with Eddie. It was the best date he'd ever been on and he was happy. Much happier than usual, and Dustin could tell. Steve had just picked him up so he could take Dustin to Hellfire, and as Dustin got in the passenger seat, Steve was humming and tapping his fingers on the steering wheel to the beat of an ABBA song playing on the radio.

Dustin immediately looked at him and frowned. Steve was smiling softly and he just looked so happy.

"Uh, Steve?"

Steve was snapped out of his lovesick daze, his head turning to look at Dustin.

"Yeah?"

"You're. Happy," Dustin says confused.

Steve's smile grew.

"I suppose I am."

"Why?"

"No reason."

Dustin saw right through him, but decided to shake it off. He had more important things to worry about.

"Can we do Hellfire at your place?"

Steve came back to Earth, frowning slightly.

"Why?"

"Principle Higgins won't let us play in the drama room anymore."

Steve sucked in a breath. He wasn't ready to come out to anyone yet and he and Eddie were very new. They'd only just started getting to know each other, only had two dates. He wasn't sure if he would be able to hide what was going on with him and Eddie.

"You can't do it anywhere else?"

"Please Steve, your house is the biggest. And if we stay late, your parents aren't home so we can sleep over."

Steve's heart began to pound in his chest. Because part of him wanted Eddie to stay the night. To share his bed with him, to cuddle with him. To spend time with him. Steve heaved a sigh. 

"Fine, fine. You can use my phone to call everyone and invite them over."

Dustin grinned and bounced in his seat, thanking Steve profusely. Once Steve pulled into his driveway, Dustin was out of the car and bounding into the house before Steve could even blink. And suddenly his house was filled with people faster than he could say Dustin's full name.

The kitchen table had been pulled into the living room, the couch pushed aside and it was filled with everything they needed for the game. Little figurines, many different dice, character sheets, pencils, Eddie's DM books and supplies. Steve was in the kitchen whipping up snacks for the group of boys in his living room.

Dustin, Mike, Eddie, Lucas and Eddie's bandmates; Gareth, Jeff and Doug. The living room was rowdy, the game in full force. Shouting, cheering and laughing, while Steve was putting the finishing touches on some freshly baked cupcakes. 

Eddie had abandoned his battle vest and leather jacket, having discarded them on the couch. That left him in his Hellfire Club shirt, one that every member of Hellfire was wearing, and his usual ripped jeans and accessories. Steve couldn't resist glancing at him every so often. 

He had a wild and chaotic energy about him, and even playing D&D, he was beautiful. The next time he went to glance at Eddie, he was standing right in front of him, nearly giving him a heart attack. Steve jumped slightly, placing a hand over his heart.

"Jesus Eddie, you scared me."

That beautiful dimpled smile appeared, Eddie's vibrant brown eyes sparkling and dancing with amusement.

"Sorry pretty boy. Didn't mean to scare you."

Steve's cheeks flushed at the pet name, an obvious attempt at flirting. Eddie was leaning against the counter now, his elbow propped on the marble surface, the muscles of his forearm flexing slightly, drawing in Steve's eyes. His mouth went dry and his mind went blank. Eddie was gorgeous. He was always gorgeous. Steve flashed a shy smile.

"It's ok."

"Smells good."

The compliment drew a bright smile from Steve, and Eddie's lips curved into a knowing smirk.

"So I was thinking. Dustin and Mike are begging to let this campaign draw out a little longer. I think they're just trying to draw it out so they can stay the night," Eddie says, sliding his hand forward and fingertips brushing against Steve's. They were callused from playing his guitar, yet they were soft. Steve leaned into the touch, letting Eddie play with his fingers, every touch sending a spark through him. 

"Are you saying you want to let it drag out?"

Eddie smiled again, a mischievous, yet flirty smile.

"It would give me a reason to stay. Spend some time with you. If you want."

Steve swallowed

"Yeah. I'd like that. Very much."

"And sleeping arrangements. We can put the kids in the living room, Jeff, Doug and Gareth in the guest room. And I can. Stay with you. In yours?"

It was a question, a hopeful one. Steve could hear the hope in Eddie's voice. And he smiled.

"As long as you don't hog the blanket."

Eddie huffed a laugh, a soft and affectionate one.

"I might just hog you." 

Steve couldn't stop smiling.

"Well, no complaints here."

Eddie grinned again and was soon called away to return to the game. Steve brought out the cupcakes and everybody dug in. The hours flew by as he cleaned up, set up the sleeping arrangements and then sat to watch Eddie play. Like always, Steve was mesmerized. Eddie was captivating to watch, and his voice was so beautiful. A sound that Steve wanted to commit to memory, along with him singing and laughing.

As the game drew to a close, he helped everyone clean up and distributed everyone to their sleeping arrangements. He was just pulling the blankets back on his bed when Eddie entered the room. He set his battle vest and leather jacket on a chair in the corner before stripping down to his boxers. Steve's eyes lingered, taking in every little feature of Eddie's body.

"Like what you see?" Eddie says, a smirk appearing. Steve's cheeks flushed. 

"Very much."

That devilish smile of Eddie's appeared again, as he strode over, reaching out to curl a strand of Steve's chest hair around his finger. He didn't even bother to hide that his gaze roved all over Steve.

"I like what I see too."

Steve's cheeks were flaming now. Eddie knew how to make a guy flustered, how to turn a guy on. But Steve wanted to take it slow. What he had with Eddie was so new, he was a guy virgin and he wanted to keep what he had with Eddie. He wanted to do it right. Eddie let go of the strand of hair, smiling softly and pressing a kiss to Steve's jawline.

It was a quick and simple kiss, but the warmth of Eddie's soft full lips had Steve's breath hitching. Eddie took his hand, gently guiding Steve into bed. And once they were both settled under the blankets, Steve's head was resting on Eddie's chest, one arm draped around Eddie's torso, and Eddie's arms wrapped around Steve, one of his hands tangled in Steve's hair, gently playing and twirling with the strands.

And there in Eddie's arms, Steve completely melted, his eyes sliding shut and a hum of contentment escaping. His embrace was warm and affectionate, a spot that Steve never wanted to leave. Within moments he was asleep, the last sensation being the gentle brush of Eddie's lips on the top of his head.

Chapters: 7/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Wayne Munson Additional Tags: Steve Harrington Has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Canonical Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Bisexual Eddie Munson Summary:

Forbidden Love Part Four

Now that Steve was home he took a long hot shower and then started getting ready. He spent an hour fussing over what to wear and ultimately decided on a pair of Levi's and a navy blue and white striped polo shirt. Then he spent another hour fussing over his hair to make sure it got it's fluffy swoop and applied some deodorant and cologne.

When he was ready it was time to head to the Hideout. It was a dingy little bar in the part of town that wasn't so nice. Somehow the floor was sticky, though there weren't many people. A few regulars but that was about it. There was an older woman tending the bar and then there was the stage.

It wasn't a big stage but it was occupied. Eddie's band was setting up their equipment. Under the crappy stage lights Eddie looked stunning. He was wearing his black ripped jeans but a pair of black combat boots, a studded belt, a chain and bandana on his jeans. He wore his usual jewelry and an Iron Maiden shirt. His arm tattoos were on display and a red flannel was tied to his waist. His fingernails were painted black and blacl eyeliner was smudged around his eyes, making them pop.

He looked like a rock god and Steve couldn't help but stare. He was mesmerized. When he was caught staring, Eddie's dimpled smile appeared, a cocky grin and Steve's face flushed red. Finally tearing his gaze away after Eddie winked, Steve walked over to the bar and ordered a beer. Even the countertop was sticky and he made a face, pulling his arms away from leaning against it.

Once he had his beer he settled at a table close to the stage to watch Eddie set up. This time he was allowed to look and not feel embarrassed or flustered about it. When the band started playing Steve was surprised to see that Eddie didn't just play guitar. He was the lead vocalist. And his voice was sheer perfection. 

It wasn't too deep, but it was rich and smooth, like a warm velvet blanket wrapping around him. The combination of Eddie's stunning voice and the way his fingers flew across the fretboard with ease had Steve squirming in his seat. Eddie was gorgeous when he played, and although Steve wasn't much into metal, he could very much appreciate what Eddie did. He could watch Eddie play for hours, listen to his voice for hours. 

Eddie knew Steve was watching. Occassionaly his eyes would lock on Steve's and he would smirk, a sexy one and his tongue would dart out to lick his lips. Steve's body felt heated, his stomach swarming and dancing with butterflies. Eddie knew what he was doing. He knew Steve was attracted and he was taking advantage of it.

By the middle of the set Steve's beer was empty but he was far too riveted to get up and get another. And he wanted to be sober tonight. He certainly wasn't ready for anything more than making out but he wanted to remember tonight. He wanted to commit every inch of Eddie to his memory, every movement, every sound. The shape of Eddie's lips as he formed the words, the way his fingers danced and plucked at the strings of his guitar.

The last song of their set was a rendition of Metallica's Fade To Black. The other guitarist kept his electric guitar but Eddie switched to an acoustic one that had the words this machine slays dragons written on it in black ink. Instead of standing he pulled up a bar stool and sat down. Steve had never heard the song before but it was beautiful. And Corroded Coffin's version of the song was absolutely stunning.

It brought out emotion in Steve, he had to blink back tears because of how powerful the lyrics were, power that was amplified by Eddie's voice. This he knew was a song he would commit to memory. Eddie's version. After the show and all the equipment had been taken down and put away, Steve waited anxiously for Eddie.

And there he was, walking over and sliding into the seat across from Steve. His breath caught in his throat at how close Eddie was now.

"Hi."

Eddie's lips curved up, eyes boring into Steve's.

"Hi."

"What did you think? I noticed you couldn't keep your eyes off me."

Steve was at a loss for words. He didn't know how to describe how amazing Eddie's performance was.

"Incredible. How are you not signed to a record label?"

Steve was genuinely curious, because Eddie had talent, and so did the rest of the band. Eddie remained quiet for a moment.

"We had a shot. In 84. Things just. Didn't work out. They ended up wanting me instead of the whole band. And uh. Some shit happened, I couldn't make the audition."

Steve wouldn't push. If Eddie wanted to talk about it, he would.

"I'm sorry it didn't work out."

Eddie shrugged.

"Maybe we'll get another shot someday."

"I think you guys would be. Really fucking amazing. Like I think you guys could go big."

"It's a nice dream. Nice idea. But I have a backup plan. You know if we don't make it, I wanna be a tattoo artist."

Steve sat up straighter.

"That sounds right up your alley. A creative outlet. And. Kinda sounds hot."

Steve hadn't really flirted with a man before, but it couldn't be much different right? For a moment he thought he'd embarassed himself but then Eddie was smiling that adorable dimpled smile, his eyes lit up.

"You ever think about getting a tattoo?"

"Uh, no, not for me. But uh. You really pull them off. They suit you."

Eddie leaned forward in his seat. 

"I think you could pull one off if you wanted to."

"Maybe, but I'm not the one who looks like a literal rock god."

The words had slipped out, his confidence rising. And Eddie laughed. Bright and beautiful. Immediately Steve caught the sound and saved it for later.

"Very smooth Harrington. You're lucky you're pretty, because flattery very much works for me."

Steve's lips curved up.

"I do pride myself in being pretty I suppose."

They were flirting now, comfortably and Steve was enjoying it. Eddie wasn't at all what people thought he was. He was charming, he had an aura that made you feel comfortable and at ease.

"I actually really loved your rendition of Fade To Black. It was. Beautiful. Powerful. I didn't know metal music could be like that."

"Metal can be just as deep as anything. It's. It's a community. A place for people to feel like they belong."

"That sounds. Really nice. Who taught you how to play?"

Eddie tapped the table with his knuckles, eyes drifting away for a moment. 

"My dad. And uh. My mom, she uh. She loved Muddy Waters. She had these records that she would take with her wherever she went. Called them her plane tickets. She would put those records on and. She would dance with me around the living room."

"She sounds lovely."

"Yeah. Yeah, she was."

"What. Happened to her? If you don't mind me asking."

"She got sick. Passed away when I was six."

"I'm sorry."

Steve really did feel bad. He hadn't meant to bring up something sad and ruin the mood. But Eddie smiled, a soft and sweet one.

"It's ok. She's kind of my inspiration. The reason I have so much love for music."

"It's how you keep her alive."

"Yeah. Exactly."

"That's beautiful. And uh. You're beautiful."

Eddie's cheeks flushed pink and he slid down in his seat, pulling a clump of curls in front of his face to hide behind it. It was adorable, and Steve smiled.

"Thanks," Eddie mumbled.

They ended up talking for another hour, sharing childhood stories, laughing and flirting, and then they were heading out.

"I um. I had a really good time tonight. Thanks for inviting me."

"Me too. Thanks for coming."

"Do you wanna. Go out? Sometime. Like. A date?"

Eddie smiled softly. 

"I'd like that."

"How about next week. Maybe a picnic by Lover's Lake?"

"Romantic," Eddie says, smiling softly as he gently bumped Steve's shoulder.

"Well I am a hopeless romantic."

Eddie laughed softly. 

"How about Thursday, around six?"

"I'll pick you up?"

Eddie smiled again.

"Thursday at six."

After solidifying their date, they said their goodbyes and went their seperate ways. And Steve couldn't stop smiling.

Chapters: 15/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Wayne Munson Additional Tags: Steve Harrington Has a Crush on Eddie Munson, Canonical Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Bisexual Steve Harrington, Bisexual Eddie Munson Summary:

Decided to do a Steddie one shot. Might do more, requests are open if you'd like me to make one for you

Watching Over You

Eddie Munson had died in the Upside Down. He'd sacrificed his own life to save all of Hawkins. The poor 20 year old who was still a high school senior had watched two people die a gruesome death by the hand of Vecna and had been blamed for all the killings. Hawkins thought he was a murderer. A Freak. A Satanist. A cultist. A devil worshipper. But Eddie was far from those things. He was wild and chaotic and untamed, but in the best way. He was a flirty touchy-feely man but he was the funniest and sweetest person that Steve had ever met. 

And Eddie was a true gentleman. Always opening doors for people and when they'd gotten into the boat he'd held out his hands for Nancy to help her in. He had a beautiful laugh and a charming, crooked dimpled smile that would light up his whole face. Eddie was beautiful. So utterly beautiful. 

Even though Eddie had been on the run, accused of comitting murders that Vecna had actually done, he stayed true to himself. Wild and free, the most incredible person Steve had ever met. Eddie and Steve had spent that week fighting off Vecna along with Nancy, Robin, Max, Lucas, Dustin and Erica. And Eddie had died.

Ever the selfless man, he'd sacrificed his own life to save an entire town that hated him. And throughout that week of fighting Vecna, not only had Steve had a sexuality crisis and figured out he was bisexual, but he'd fallen head over heels in love with Eddie. Eddie was the complete opposite of Steve. A metalhead, a drug dealer and a man who loved D&D. But he was opposite in the best way.

Eddie Munson's death had hit Steve hard. He, Nancy and Robin had left the Upside Down's version of the Creel House and went back to Eddie's trailer only to find Dustin on the ground where a huge swarm of bats was littered all around him, dead on the ground. And Eddie's unmoving body cradled in Dustin's lap. 

Dustin was only 14, a freshman in high school. And he'd seen a lot of horrifying Upside Down related things throughout his young life. But nothing could compare to the 14 year old holding his best friend Eddie in his arms while he died. Watching his best friend die in his arms.

When Steve had registered that Eddie was dead in Dustin's arms, he'd wanted to cry and scream and punch something. He'd never gotten the chance to tell Eddie he loved him. Hell, he'd never even gotten the chance to tell anyone that he was bisexual. He was still a closeted queer. But instead he remained strong for everyone else. Didn't cry. didn't show his feelings. They couldn't take Eddie's body back to the real world, so they'd left him there.

And Steve had hated that. But before they'd left, Steve had taken one of Eddie's rings to keep. He already had Eddie's denim vest because Eddie had given it to him earlier in the week to wear when Steve didn't have a shirt. He would keep the vest. But he'd wanted just one more thing of Eddie's.

After defeating Vecna and going back to the real Hawkins, Eddie had been announced on the news as still a suspect for all the killings, still a murderer, but also missing and presumed dead. There had been a small funeral for Eddie's uncle Wayne and Eddie's friends to mourn him, the people who loved Eddie and truly knew that Eddie was a beautiful and kind soul that could never hurt anyone.

And Steve had very quickly and very insistently offered to pay for the headstone and burial plot in the cemetery. He'd cried at that funeral, finally breaking down. He'd sobbed and he couldn't stop. He'd never cried that much before. He'd taken Eddie's ring and put it on a chain to wear around his neck and he would never take it off.

That was his tether to Eddie. His piece of Eddie, even though Eddie was gone. Eddie's uncle Wayne was a kind older man and he'd sobbed just as much as Steve had. Wayne had loved his nephew like his own son and Eddie's death was devastating to him. But he'd stopped crying long before Steve had. When Steve and Wayne were the only two left at Eddie's grave, Steve still sobbing and clutching tightly to that ring dangling from the chain around his neck, Wayne approached him, gently placing a hand on his shoulder.

"It's alright son. You can let it out," Wayne whispered kindly in Steve's ear, his voice heavy with sympathy and grief as he stood beside the broken hearted 19 year old at Eddie's grave site. And eventually, slowly but surely Steve stopped crying and began to calm down. 

"Did you know? That Eddie was. Was gay?"

"Boy, everybody knew. It's why they called him a Freak. But Eddie was my boy. And I loved him all the same. Always will."

Steve looked up at Wayne, his eyes filled with tears and gratitude for the old man's acceptance. 

"He was so beautiful," he said softly, a small smile tugging at his lips as memories of Eddie began to flood him again. 

"And kind... And sweet..." 

His voice trailed off and he closed his eyes, taking in a deep shaky breath. 

"I'm bisexual. Basically means I like both genders. I didn't. I didn't know. Until I met Eddie. And he'd pushed me up against the wall. And then he was. Always smiling, always laughing, touchy, flirty, calling me things like big boy and I. I figured it out." 

Steve hadn't come out to anyone yet but he felt safe coming out to Wayne. If Wayne could love Eddie even though Eddie was gay then he was safe coming out to Wayne.

"You loved him," Wayne said simply.

Steve opened his eyes slowly, looking over at Wayne who seemed to understand him perfectly. He felt a sudden calm wash over him, knowing that someone got it. Someone knew what he was going through and didn't judge him or Eddie for it. 

"I loved him," Steve whispered again, before breaking down into more sobs.

"You still love him?" Wayne asked gently.

Steve looked over at Wayne again, his eyes filled with pain but also love. He nodded solemnly, the tears still falling from his cheeks in a constant stream. 

"Yes," He choked out between sobs before turning back to Eddie's grave once more. 

"I always will," he whispered into the earth as another wave of grief hit him hard.

"Good. Eddie deserved that kind of love. In a place that hates him, don't ever let go of that love for him. He might be gone, but he still needs it."

"I won't," Steve promised firmly as he turned back to Wayne one last time, giving him a small nod before getting into his car and driving away. He would miss Eddie every day but he wouldn't let go of the love they shared. It was too precious and special to ever be forgotten.

For weeks after Eddie's funeral Steve stayed at home, curled up in his bed and crying, clutching that ring, clutching Eddie's denim vest. Slowly but surely Steve's grief turned into a numbness. It was as if his feelings had been pushed so far down that he could hardly feel anything. His depression began to settle in, taking hold of him in ways he hadn't experienced before. Days bled into nights and nights into days.

One particular night he was curled up in his bed, clutching Eddie's denim vest tightly to his chest. His tears had dried out by now and he was curled up in the fetal position just staring at the wall. But just then, he could feel it. A light breeze drifting over a strand of his hair, as if someone was trying to tuck the hair out of his face. But there was no one there, just a gentle cold touch. And there was no window open, no A/C going.

Steve shivered at the touch, not quite sure what to make of it. But he couldn't deny that the gentle caress felt oddly comforting. As if Eddie was trying to reach out from beyond the grave, telling him everything would be okay. That gentle touch was there again, a little cold breeze, this time drifting over his cheek.

Steve opened his eyes slowly, looking around the room. He couldn't see anyone but there was no denying that cold breeze had touched him again.

"Eddie?" Steve whispered softly into the darkness.

As soon as he spoke Eddie's name, there was that gentle cold touch again, this one drifting over his chest, right on the spot where his heart lay. And it lingered there for a moment.

Steve buried his face deeper into Eddie's denim vest, crying more tears of comfort and longing. He didn't know if he was truly feeling Eddie's touch or if it was just a figment of his imagination but it made him feel less alone. Less hopeless.

As he cried into Eddie's vest something else happened. That cold breeze wasn't touching him anymore but he could feel it right next to him. And then something he never thought he'd hear again. Eddie's voice. Not too deep, not too high, low and soft, like a blanket of velvet that wraps around you. The most beautiful voice Steve had ever heard. 

"Crying over little ol' me?"

Steve gasped as he lifted his head, turning to look beside him. And there Eddie sat. He looked so real, leaning back on his hands that were pressed into the mattress, his lips curved into that beautiful soft smile. He was wearing his usual look except for the denim vest and leather jacket. He looked perfect, just as beautiful as ever. 

"Is this. Are you. Really here?"

Eddie smiled again, soft and sweet as he shook his head. 

"Afraid not sweet boy. Just a wandering spirit. Ghost if you will." 

And even as a spirit, Eddie was completely himself. Witty and charming, always making light of everything and definitely flirty.

Steve's heart raced wildly. He couldn't quite believe that Eddie was there. 

"Why are you here?" Steve managed to stammer out through the tears and emotion choking him. 

"Why me? Of all people."

Eddie reached out then. And though he couldn't touch Steve, there was that gentle cold breeze, brushing the hair out of Steve's face. 

"Because you need me the most "

Steve looked up into Eddie's beautiful smiling face, so grateful for this chance to see him. 

"Are you watching over me?" Steve asked, tears falling faster now. 

"Always sweetheart. I'll always be watching over you." 

Eddie's smile was soft, his voice filled with affection.

"I love you, Eddie," Steve whispered hoarsely as he looked at Eddie's ghostly form. He was no longer feeling so alone with this comforting promise from Eddie. For now he would cling onto the memory of their time together, holding it close as a source of solace until they could meet again properly.

Those words brought out, not one of Eddie's soft and sweet smiles, but one of Eddie's light up his face, wide, crooked and dimpled smiles. His most beautiful smile. 

"I know you do."

"Eddie, can...can you make it easier for me? To let go of the pain and sadness." 

Steve didn't know how to ask but Eddie had always seemed to understand him even without words. He needed help finding hope again.

"Sweetheart, that pain and sadness will never go away. And that's ok. I don't want it to go away. Without it, you'd forget me. And I don't want you to forget me. But it will get easier. Time will make it easier. You'll still have those bad days. Those days where you just want to curl up and cry. And you can have those days. You need those days. But you need to live too.

Go out there. Connect with your friends again, go back to work, follow whatever dream that you have. And whether you find someone to love or you don't, that's ok too. And maybe on my birthday make a cake and light a candle for me. I'll blow it out. To let you know that I'm still there. Still watching over you. Still loving you. And that I'm waiting for you."

Steve nodded slowly, soaking up the words. They made so much sense and yet they were difficult to accept. But Eddie had given him a way to deal with this pain and it was up to Steve now to take the first steps forward. 

"Thank you for everything Eddie."

Eddie smiled again. And he took Steve's hand, letting their fingers intertwine, though it was more like Steve was touching cold empty air. 

"Thank you for loving me, when I didn't think I deserved it."

"Always, Eddie. Always." 

Steve felt a warmth in his chest, the gentle comfort of Eddie's touch sending a wave of peace throughout him. For now that was enough. Just having this chance to say goodbye properly and to promise that he wouldn't forget him eased some of Steve's sorrow.

Eddie kissed him then, just a gentle brush of cold air against Steve's lips. Steve felt a lump in his throat, his eyes filling with tears as Eddie's spectral breath washed over his lips. It was the softest kiss he'd ever had, full of warmth and love even though it was from an ethereal form. 

"Goodbye Eddie."

Another sweet smile. 

"Goodbye sweet boy. I'll see you soon." 

And then Eddie was gone, fading into nothing but air. Steve lay there for a while longer, lost in the memories of Eddie. The comforting touch that had filled him with warmth was now gone, replaced by cold emptiness. 

He wiped his tears and slowly got off the bed, making his way to the window to look out at Hawkins night sky - it'd be a new beginning from tonight onwards.

Steve never found another person to love. Eddie had been the one for him. But he'd picked himself up, moved forward. Started going back to work, being with his friends again. And living life and being with them helped eased the ache. He never took off Eddie's ring that hung on the chain around his neck. 

He would always find a way to wear Eddie's denim vest in his outfit. He didn't care that people ridiculed him for wearing Eddie's vest when everybody thought Eddie was a murderer. Steve would go on dates and sometimes they would end in a one night stand, because honestly he still needed sex. He did it with men and women, but no one could take Eddie's place in his heart. 

He didn't want to love anyone else, and so he didn't. He never married, never dated. He did adopt two beautiful children because he'd always wanted to be a father. And he told his children stories about Eddie, that if Eddie had been alive he would be their other dad. He made sure his children knew who Eddie was. 

He was an incredible father and they gave him happiness and joy and helped ease the pain of Eddie's death. And every year on Eddie's birthday he would make a cake and light a candle. And he would tell his children to wait and watch. And then a cold gentle breeze would blow out that candle, to let Steve know that Eddie was still there. 

Still watching over him. Still loving him. Still waiting for him. And then they would eat the cake and Steve would tuck his children into bed. And then he would cry, clutching that ring and kissing it.

And as the years went by, Steve grew into an elderly man. The pain of Eddie's death never fully faded but it became easier to bear - a part of him now. 

He was filled with a mix of memories - both sad and happy ones, all entwined in each other like strands in a tapestry telling his story. He was on his deathbed now. He hadn't seen Eddie since that first night a few weeks after Eddie's death.

But as Steve lay there in the hospital bed, his now grown adult children and his beautiful little grandchildren sleeping around the room, Eddie was there. A soft smile. Steve looked over, spotting a glimmer of light in the corner of his room. There stood Eddie, looking as stunning as ever even though he wasn't solid anymore. His eyes filled with tears at the sight. Eddie looked exactly the same. He wasn't elderly, he was his 20 year old self. Same outfit.

"Hi sweet boy."

"Eddie," Steve whispered, feeling an overwhelming mix of emotions. His eyes were wet with tears. He tried to sit up slightly.

"Shh, don't try to move," Eddie says softly as he came over to stand beside him.

"Eddie, I've missed you so much," he breathed out quietly.

"I know love. And you've done so well all these years."

"But I'm tired Eddie. I can't go on without you anymore " Steve whispered painfully.

"You don't have to. You can come with me now. It's time."

Steve looked over at his family, asleep and peaceful. He felt a pang in his heart but found some solace knowing they would be cared for.

"Will they remember me?"

"Always. And you'll watch over them. Just like I watched over you."

Steve felt a warm smile spread across his face at the words. He knew then that he would always be with Eddie, watching over his loved ones until they all reunited again in the afterlife.

Eddie offered his hand then, another soft smile. 

"Ready?"

Steve nodded, reaching out to take Eddie's hand. This time he could touch it. It wasn't cold air. It was solid. Warmth, and soft skin, the cool metal of his rings. Steve felt lighter then, like he was floating. And then he could see it. The heart monitors flatlining, his family around him waking up, his own old elderly body lying in the hospital bed. But Steve didn't feel old. He felt young again, as young as he had been when Eddie died. He was 19 again.

And then there was Eddie, so handsome and alive, standing in front of him. It felt like a dream. But Steve knew it was real this time. 

"Am I?"

"Dead? Yeah. They'll be alright."

Steve looked up at Eddie, a mix of sadness and joy in his eyes. 

"Where are we?"

Eddie smiled then. 

"Afterlife. We're spirits. Guardians who watch over our loved ones, until they're ready to join us."

Steve looked around, realizing that the world he saw wasn't physical anymore but had more vivid colors and shimmering details. 

"What do we do now?"

"We live again. You and me. We won't age. And we'll watch over your family. Be there when they're ready to join us. But you and me, we live again. Together this time."

Steve grinned at Eddie. 

"Together. Forever." 

He felt a warmth in his chest, a deep happiness that he was with Eddie again.

Eddie grinned back, pressing his forehead against Steve's. 

"Forever my beautiful boy."

Steve returned the gesture, their souls fusing together as one in a loving embrace. 

"Forever with you, Eddie," he whispered before pulling back slightly to look into his eyes once more. This time though it wasn't goodbye but rather a promise of an everlasting love that would span across eternity itself.

Eddie was kissing him then. And this time it was a real kiss, he could feel it. Warm soft lips, a deep and loving kiss. Steve was lost in the embrace, his whole being focusing on Eddie's lips. The kiss felt like pure bliss and it made him realize how much he truly loved Eddie. All pain from the past evaporated, replaced with love and contentment.