Eddie X Steve - Tumblr Posts

Chapters: 4/? 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 Two

"Fuck." 

Steve rubbed his hands down his face, heaving a sigh before he started cleaning up. It took hours and he had to take a break to eat breakfast, but finally the house was clean again, no trace of the previous nights party. He still couldn't remember what had happened after Eddie sat next to him at the pool and he knew that if he wanted answers he would have to actually talk to Eddie.

After getting dressed and styling his hair, Steve left the house and drove out to Forest Hills Trailer Park. Once he'd pulled up next to Eddie's van, he sat there for a moment, tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. Eddie's trailer wasn't grand, in fact it looked run down. There was a very small porch and on it was a porch swing that swayed gently in the breeze.

Gathering his courage he shut off the engine and got out of the car, walking up to the front door. He pushed down the nerves, the incessant fluttering in his stomach before knocking on the door. It was quiet for a moment before a light flickered on through the window and the door swung open.

Eddie stood there, looking like he'd just woken up. A simple pair of black pajama pants, hair a little wild and disheveled, a sleepy look on his face. And shirtless. He wasn't jacked, but he was lithe and lean. Muscles hidden because he did have them from moving guitars and equipment all the time, they just weren't defined. But they were there. And then the tattoos.

Vibrant black ink, a stark contrast to his pale skin. Intricate designs, the Wyvern above his right elbow, the swarm of bats on his forearm below his right elbow, the puppeteer on the inside of his right forearm and the demon head on his chest just above his heart. Steve had to swallow and stop his gaze from lingering. Because somehow, Eddie looked even better shirtless.

"Harrington?"

"Hey. Um. Can we uh. Talk?" Steve said rubbing the back of his neck nervously.

Eddie studied him for a moment before swinging the door open wider and stepping aside to let Steve in. Stepping inside, he closed the door behind him, his eyes taking in the trailer. A tube tv with a box of VHS tapes sat in front of an old couch. The walls were lined with mugs and ballcaps and the kitchen was small, then the small hallway.

"Listen um. I don't. Really remember much. About last night. What exactly. Did I do?"

"What do you remember?" Eddie asked, walking over to the couch and sitting down. Steve awkwardly stood where he was. 

"Everything up until you sat beside me at the pool. After that it's kinda hazy."

Eddie sucked in a breath.

"Well you were pretty drunk by then. Then we shared a joint, talked."

"What did we talk about?"

"You mostly talked about how shitty your parents are. How you're different from who you used to be. And you giggled. A lot."

"Yeah I. Kinda get giggly when I'm high."

"Well then I ended the party, helped you to your room and get settled. And then..." Eddie trailed off.

Steve's heart jumped into his throat. What had happened then? Why had Eddie trailed off? Had they done something together? Had they made out? Hooked up? Steve wasn't sure.

"Then what?"

Eddie sucked in another breath.

"Then you cane on to me."

Steve's face burned bright red.

"Shit. I, I'm sorry."

"It's fine. It's fine, it was nothing, right? You are straight as an arrow, ladies man."

Eddie sounded like he was upset about it and Steve shuffled on his feet.

"Not as straight as you might think."

Eddie's head snapped in Steve's direction, eyes wide with shock and disbelief.

"What?"

"It's kind of something I've been struggling with for a while. I just sort of recently figured out that I'm bisexual."

Eddie stared, blinked a few times. He looked like he wanted to say something, his mouth opening and closing but nothing came out. 

"Oh. Just. Recently."

"Yeah. So uh. If I made you uncomfortable its. I'm sorry."

Eddie simply shrugged.

"It's fine."

"So. Is that. All that happened or?"

"Yeah you passed out pretty quickly after that. Then I left."

Steve nodded. 

"Listen um. I really am different. I don't think you're a bad guy. Maybe we could. I don't know, get to know each other I guess."

Steve stuck his hands in his pockets. Eddie nodded, twisting one of his rings.

"Alright. Yeah. Sounds cool. Um. Tuesday. My band plays at the Hideout. If you wanna. Come."

"Sure. Yeah. What time?"

"Nine. We only play for an hour but. It's something."

Steve nodded again. 

"Well uh. I'll be there then."

The air was thick with tension and after an awkward agreement and goodbyes, Steve left. Tuesday was going to prove interesting

Chapters: 5/? 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 Three

Tuesday was an agonizingly slow day. The beginning of the week was never that busy for Family Video, so he was bored most of the day. At least he had Robin to talk to. He knew he could come out to her, but he also knew that she would start her rambling if he told her he'd figured it out because of Eddie Munson. 

As Steve aimlessly rewound tapes, restocked shelves and reorgnized tapes, he let his mind wander. If he wasn't eyeing the clock to watch it tick by so very slowly.

"Earth to Steve," Robin says waving her hand in Steve's face.

"Shit Rob, sorry."

"What's gotten into you today?"

"Just. Distracted."

"Oooo is it a girl?"

Steve's face flushed. 

"No."

"No? You're bright red face says otherwise."

"It's not a girl."

"Well if it's not a girl then..."

Steve could see as the gears in Robin's head begin to turn, things slotting into place and then her face lit up. She leaned forward, resting her arms on the counter.

"Is it a boy?" She whispered, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively.

Steve's blush deepened and he ducked his head away.

"Come on Steve, you can tell me!"

"Yeah, I know, it's just. I'm a little caught off guard myself. And our first couple of interactions were kind of. Awkward."

"Awkward how?"

"Well the first time I was drunk and high at my party. And the second time. Uh. Recounting with him what happened with him at the party because I didn't remember. It was. Just awkward."

Robin gasped.

"Did you guys kiss? Full on make out? Sex?" 

Steve fixed her with a look and she was hiding a laugh behind her hand.

"No. He ended the party, helped me to my room. And I uh. Came onto him."

Robin started laughing, trying to hold it in which only caused snorts to escape. Steve's face was as red as a tomato now.

"Yeah yeah, laugh it up."

"Sorry. Sorry, I'm sorry. You. Who just figured out you're bisexual. Came onto him. While you were drunk and high."

"Yeah, I know, stupid. And I'm. Seeing him again tonight."

"Ooooo a date?"

"No, not a date. Just. Getting to know each other."

"Is he attractive? I mean obviously men are not my type, but do you think he's attractive?"

"Very. Like you have no idea. Hotter than Billy Hargrove attractive."

Robin let out a whistle.

"So who's the lucky guy?"

Flustered, Steve dropped the tape he was holding. He attempted to catch it but he fumbled it a few times before it clattered to the floor. He shot Robin a playful glare and her eyes were dancing with mirth.

"Let's not talk about that," Steve says bending down to pick up the tape.

"Why not? You like him right?"

"Yeah but. I mean I don't know him well. And if you were to find out who it is, you would. You would be shocked."

"Steeeeeeeeeve!" 

Her tone had taken on a whine now and instead of being annoyed he just shook his head.

"Come on! I want to know! Please, please, please, please, pleeeeeaaaaase?"

"Okay! Okay. It's um."

Steve fidgeted with his hands.

"Eddie Munson," he muttered under his breath.

"Who?"

"Eddie Munson."

This time it came out so fast Robin could barely understand what he was saying.

"Steve..."

"Eddie Munson!" 

Steve's eyes went wide with shock, slapping a hand over his mouth at how loud he'd shouted Eddie's name. Thankfully there were no customers. Robin blinked a few times.

"Eddie Munson."

"Uh huh."

"The Eddie Munson!?"

"Yes! Ok, shhh!"

She blinked again.

"Holy shit, you have the hots for Eddie Munson."

"Shut up."

"What are you guys doing tonight?"

"Um. His band is playing tonight. I'm going to watch."

"You don't like metal music."

"Yeah, but. I told him I wanted to get to know him. And he invited me to his band's show so..."

"So you're going."

"Yep. Oh god. What do I wear? Because I'm not in the metal scene, is preppy not good enough, it's probably not appropriate, I don't have any metal like clothes, what if I mess this up, what if he doesn't like me after tonight..."

"Steve!"

"What?"

"Now who's the one rambling?"

Steve snapped his mouth shut, his cheeks flushing red again, and Robin giggled.

"Oh my god, you're already so far gone."

"Don't make fun of me. He's just so. How do I put it. Pretty. I mean have you seen those eyes, they're like a whole galaxy on their own. And those lips, they look so. Soft, I mean imagine kissing lips that are soft and full and just. Perfect. And I mean, he pulls off the jewelry and the tattoos and shirtless, dear god."

Steve knew he was rambling again, and just recounting some of Eddie's physical features had him half hard and he had to adjust himself to hide his. Well, problem.

"Steve, you're hopeless."

"Don't remind me."

"Just be yourself. Wear what's comfortable for you. If he likes you, he'll like you for you."

"Yeah. I guess your right."

After their conversation about Eddie, Steve was happy to talk to Robin about Vickie, though he more listened while she rambled, but he didn't mind. And thankfully, their conversations were enough to fill the agonizingly slow time till their shift was over. Now he had to get ready to go to the Hideout. He had some time to kill but he wanted everything to be just right.

Chapters: 6/? 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

Another little Steddie one shot. Really proud of this one

Scars To Your Beautiful

Eddie had survived the Upside Down. He'd clung to the little bit of life he had and Steve had dragged him through the gate and into a hospital, effectively saving his life. Owens had cleared his name, the government had given them all hush money and Eddie and Wayne had gotten a new place. Eddie now had a new solid group of friends and Wayne was good in taking care of him when he could. But Steve was there too.

Steve would spend his free days visiting Eddie, and taking care of him when Wayne needed sleep or was at work. Eddie was difficult to work with but Steve was patient. It'd been three months now and his wounds were almost healed. But his body was littered with scars. He didn't think anyone would find him attractive now.

Fresh pink scars, jagged lines littered his sides, some on his arms and by some miracle his tattoos had been missed and then a thick jagged scar running from his jawline and down his throat. It was one of Eddie's rough days. He'd just finished a shower and now he was staring at himself in the mirror.

His fingers ghosted over every scar, so many of them, and the eyes that stared back at him weren't his usual warmth and excitement. They were sad. Haunted. Eddie heaved a sigh, his eyes sliding shut and rubbing his hands across his face. He was feeling so incredibly insecure. He wouldn't change what he'd done, he sacrificed himself to save everyone else. But along with Survivors guilt and the insecurities with his scars, and how he wasn't really doing much with his life right now, he was having quite the bad day.

"Eddie?"

A voice startled Eddie out of his thoughts and his eyes snapped open. He could see Steve in the reflection of the bathroom mirror, leaning against the doorframe with his arms crossed and a look of concern on his face. That was another complicated thing. Steve. Eddie was head over heels in love, but Steve was. Well straight.

This had always been Eddie's problem. Falling hard and fast. It had led to a lot of heartbreak. He'd tried to stop this one, but his feelings for Steve had blindsighted him. One minute Steve was an aquantence who was trying to help clear his name, and the next. He was saving Eddie's life and Eddie had tumbled heart first into his feelings.

"You ok?"

Eddie shook the thoughts from his head, letting his breath out through his nose that he didn't even realize he was holding. 

"Yeah. Fine."

Eddie had always been a terrible liar and it was clear Steve wasn't convinced. Eddie's unrequited feelings were bad enough, but then Steve had to be confusing. A man Eddie very much knew was straight and yet. Throughout spring break Steve had never protested against Eddie's playful flirting. And Steve had been. Well touchy, he'd make his own subtle advances. And Eddie wasn't sure if it was on purpose or if Steve genuinely had no idea what he was doing.

"What's wrong?"

Eddie wanted to lie again. But he was a weak man when it came to Steve. Sighing again, Eddie moved to sit on the toilet seat, the lid already put down because his towel had been sitting there. He rubbed his hands across his face again.

"Just a bad day."

It was quiet for a moment.

"Seems like more than just a bad day."

Eddie's head snapped up, because Steve's voice sounded much closer. And Steve was standing right in front of him now, that same look of concern etched onto his beautiful features. Eddie sucked in a breath. When had Steve gotten so close?

"It's nothing." 

Steve frowned before crouching in front of him, taking Eddie's hands in his. His touch was soft, gentle, rubbing soothing circles into his skin with the pads of his thumbs. And Eddie would be lying if he said that didn't make his heart flutter, his belly swoop and butterflies erupt, his heart now pounding in his chest. His gaze locked with Steve's, warm brown eyes looking back at him.

"It doesn't seem like nothing."

Steve was being patient, his voice was soft and gentle and he was allowing Eddie time to gather his thoughts. 

"I just. I feel...." 

Eddie trailed off, trying to figure out how to put his thoughts into words.

"I feel ugly."

Understanding dawned on Steve's features and Eddie wasn't sure how he was going to react. But what Steve did was not at all what Eddie expected. Maybe for him to reassure him that he wasn't ugly but not this. His breath hitched in his throat because Steve's lips were on his skin. Kissing every little scar, starting from his jaw and throat, down to his arms and sides, and every scar in between.

They were gentle kisses, filled with adoration, affection and Eddie's heart did another flutter, his belly did another swoop. Everywhere Steve's lips touched left a tingling sensation that burned through Eddie's veins, his very soul. Another bought of confusion washed over him. Maybe Steve wasn't as straight as he thought he was.

"You are not ugly. You are beautiful. So utterly beautiful. And every little scar. It doesn't take away from your beauty. They add to it. You're scars are just as beautiful as you are. Because they tell a story. That what you've been through, you fought. You survived. And you are stronger than you were before. Be proud of these scars. They're a part of you. And I wouldn't change a single part of you."

Eddie could feel his eyes misting over. Steve's words were the sweetest anyone had ever said to him. Eddie was well and thoroughly fucked. There was no coming back from this. He was hopelessly in love. Steve owned his heart, and part of Eddie wanted to just rip it out of his chest and put it in Steve's hands.

He didn't even realize he was crying until Steve was kissing away those tears. Finally his shoulders sagged, a choked sob escaping from the back of his throat, because he felt relieved. He was still beautiful. He was wanted. Accepted. For exactly the way that he was and it felt like a giant weight had been lifted from his chest.

"God, could you get anymore perfect?"

An affectionate chuckle escaped from Steve and he was gently tugging Eddie closer.

"I'm just being honest. Telling you what I see," Steve says, reaching up to brush some of Eddie's curls out of his face.

Eddie sucked in a breath, gathered all of his courage and finally asked the question he needed the answer to.

"What is this? Between us? I mean. As far as I know you're straight. And I'm. Well, not straight." 

Eddie clamped his mouth shut, biting down on his lower lip, eyes watching Steve for any indication of what he was thinking.

"I thought I was. But if I'm being completely honest with myself. I'm not. I mean I still like women, but..."

"So you're bisexual then."

"Is that what it is?"

Eddie nodded.

"It's what I am."

Steve tilted his head, a pensive look crossing his features. 

"That makes sense. Looking back, I should've known. Should've figured it out. You're not. The first guy that I've wanted to kiss."

Eddie's breath hitched again.

"You want to kiss me?"

The question came out almost like a whisper. Steve bit his lip before nodding.

"Yeah. Yeah, I want to kiss you. And so much more. And we'll get there. For now. For now, I just want to kiss you. If I can."

Eddie didn't hesitate, diving in for that first kiss. His hands gently cupped Steve's cheeks, his mouth meeting Steve's in a desperate, yet soft kiss. And Steve was kissing him back, lips moving languidly against each other, tongues darting out to taste and tease. Eddie felt like he could live in this moment forever. And maybe it sounded cliché but this kiss was like magic. Perfect in every way. For the first time, Eddie truly loved himself. Because Steve saw him for who he was. And he wanted him. 

They finally broke the kiss when they needed air. And with one look at each other, they knew they didn't need to talk about it. Because it was there, in their eyes. What they were to each other. No words needed to be spoken. They just knew. Eddie pulled another kiss from Steve, this one slower, sweeter, as if conveying everything that he was feeling. 

"You're perfect," Steve whispered against his lips, and Eddie swallowed down the words, a soft whimper escaping, because those words went straight to his heart. Where they would remain, for as long as Eddie lived.

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: 8/? 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 Five

When Thursday came around Steve started preparing. Making little sandwiches, packing fruit, though he doubted Eddie would eat any of them. He ended up tossing some chips and candy in there as well and some cold beers. He'd planned for it to be later so they could watch the sun set and the stars come out.

He wasn't going to dress overly nice, he wanted it to be about comfort rather than fancy, and Eddie wasn't one to get fancy anyways. After a shower and doing his routine he settled for a comfortable yellow sweater and some jeans. 

Once he had everything ready and packed in the car he set out to Eddie's trailer, arriving right at six. He double checked his appearance before getting out of his car and walking up to the door. Just as he was about to knock, Eddie swung the door open and Steve's breath caught in his throat. Was it ever possible for Eddie to not be gorgeous? He didn't think so.

Eddie was wearing a fresh pair of jeans, no rips this time but still black denim and a Megadeath tshirt. All of his jewelry and his leather jacket. He looked cleaner, nicer, but still completely himself.

"I uh. Tried to dress a little nicer. I don't have much though," Eddie says gazing down at his attire, before back up at Steve. And those big brown eyes had him weak in the knees.

"You look. Wow."

Eddie's lips curved up into a shy smile.

"Good?"

"Definitely," Steve says, nodding.

"Uh, if you want you can. Bring your guitar. I. Like watching you play."

Another smile appeared, Eddie's face lighting up.

"Really?"

"Yeah."

"No one's. Ever wanted to watch me play, just for a date."

"Well. I'd like to."

Eddie was nearly bouncing in his spot, his smile widening before darting out of sight to grab his acoustic guitar. When he returned he stepped out of the trailer and put it in the back of the car before they both got settled. They fussed over the music selection because their tastes were so opposite, but the banter felt light and natural.

When they arrived, Eddie grabbed his guitar and Steve grabbed the blanket and cooler, setting everything up in a small clearing by the lake.

"This is a nice spot," Eddie says as he settles with his guitar laid beside him.

"I thought we could watch the sun set. Do a little stargazing, maybe light a fire," Steve says, settling beside Eddie.

"You really are a romantic."

Steve smiled sheepishly.

"Guilty as charged."

There didn't seem to be any nerves this time, as the two dug into the little picnic and eased right into conversation. They talked about music and interests, and even though their interests were different they both put in an effort to understand what the other was interested in. They bickered over the music, but it was filled with laughter. 

Then they watched the sun set, watched the stars begin to appear, Eddie talking lazily about why he loved the night. He loved the moon and the stars and the way the moonlight bathed over everything with an ethereal glow, and the color of blue and silver that wrapped around the nature like a blanket. Then Steve lit a fire and Eddie sat up, pulling his guitar into his lap.

"Any requests?" Eddie asked, gently plucking at the strings to produce a slow and beautiful melody. Steve shook his head.

"Whatever comes to your mind. Whatever feels right in the moment."

Steve was sprawled out on his stomach now, his chin propped up with his hands and intently watching Eddie. Eddie's fingers continued to idly pluck at the strings before settling for I Want To Know What Love Is by Foreigner. As the song came together, Eddie played beautifully, flawlessly. And he looked so utterly pretty as he played.

His eyes closed, hair falling slightly into his face, fingers dancing across the strings that produced such a beautiful sound and softly humming along, as if the words were on the tip of his tongue. Steve was completely captivated. He watched as Eddie played and he could feel goosebumps dancing across his skin.

In that moment, all Steve saw was Eddie. This was a moment he would commit to memory, like a mental video to be saved so he could always look at it. Eddie's eyelashes were long and beautiful, causing shadows to gently dance across his cheeks, and the glow of the fire and the moonlight bathing over him made him look. Well like an angel. An angel sent from Heaven. As the last notes faded away, Steve was smiling, a look of pure adoration dancing in his eyes.

"That was beautiful."

Eddie's eyes fluttered open, and dear god that did something to Steve. A wave of heat pooling down in his belly, the butterflies swooping and dancing around. And then Eddie's smile, lips soft and full, little dimples in his cheeks.

"You liked it?"

Steve nodded eagerly and Eddie's smile grew. He played a few more songs and Steve watched with rapt attention. And after, a flood of compliments poured out of his mouth that had Eddie blushing as he set his guitar aside and laid back down to watch the sky.

They stayed for a few more hours, idly talking before Steve took Eddie home and walked him up to the door. 

"Tonight was..." 

Steve trailed off, attempting to find the right words.

"Perfect," Eddie finished.

"Yeah. Perfect."

Eddie shuffled on his feet, a lazy smile appearing.

"Do you think. There could be a third date?"

Steve's own smile appeared.

"And a fourth. I'd like there to be."

Eddie smiled again.

"Me too."

A comfortable silence fell over them and Eddie was fidgeting with his rings, gaze cast down to his feet that he was shuffling. Unable to resist the urge, Steve reached out and brushed aside the curls that were partially hiding Eddie's face. Eddie's head snapped up, eyes locking with Steve's and somehow they grew darker, gaze flicking to Steve's lips for a brief moment.

And then Eddie was leaning in, Steve's eyes tracking the movement. It wasn't a full kiss, just a tentative brush of lips, a brief moment. But it left Steve tingling, craving more. Eddie pulled back and Steve's eyes flicked up to meet Eddie's.

"Goodnight Steve."

His voice was soft and it nearly stole Steve's breath.

"Goodnight Eddie."

Steve's voice was just as soft and Eddie smiled, picking up his guitar that had been leaning against the wall and disappeared inside. As Steve got in his car, a wide lovesick smile appeared. That was without a doubt, the best date that Steve had ever been on. And he couldn't wait for the third one.

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: 10/? 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:

For mature audiences, light smut warning

Forbidden Love Part Seven

It had been three months since Steve and Eddie had first started spending time together. Their sexual tension was thick but so was the affection they had for each other. Even though it had only been three months, Steve had tumbled, head over heels. Eddie was everything he could've ever wanted. Sweet, kind, compassionate, affectionate, loving. 

They'd really opened up to each other, they knew each other like the back of their hands now. They hadn't kissed or had sex yet, but Steve was there now. All he could think about was taking what they had to the next level. Physical. And hopefully, more than just sex. He wanted a relationship. And he was starting to get antsy about coming out. He at least wanted to come out to his friends. Start there.

It was a Saturday night and Eddie was over. Another date, though this one was in the comfort of Steve's kitchen, attempting to do some baking together. Which had really just ended up with a half made pie that wasn't ready to be put in the oven yet and them playing around. They were laughing now, Eddie's beautiful eyes dancing with amusement, happiness. There was a small streak of flour on Eddie's cheek and Steve loved it. In this moment, the world fell away, and all he saw was Eddie.

"You have something on your cheek."

They were both smiling, warm and affectionate, and Steve licked his thumb, reaching out and gently wiping off the flour. Eddie's eyes tracked his every movement, growing darker and the tension in the air thickened. Steve's chest tightened, his belly erupting in butterflies. Eddie reached out, hooking a finger through one of Steve's belt loops, tugging him close. His free hand tangled in Steve's hair. 

And then they were kissing. Finally. It was slow and sweet, just a taste. Steve completely melted into the kiss, his hands finding Eddie's waist and desperately tugging him even closer. Both of them were rock hard now and a groan escaped from Eddie's throat. The kiss deepened, Eddie's tongue darting out to drag across Steve's bottom lip.

Steve gave in, granting access and Eddie swept his tongue in, exploring and tasting every inch of Steve's mouth. Eddie pushed their bodies until Steve's back was pressed against the counter, pulling away from the kiss and teeth nipping at Steve's bottom lip. Steve let out a soft whimper and then Eddie was kissing down his jaw and throat, finding one of Steve's moles and sucking, licking, nipping.

Steve's own groan escaped, Eddie's name coming out in a breathless whisper. And Eddie was smiling against his skin, pulling back to look at Steve. Eddie slid down to his knees, kneeling in front of Steve and looked up at him through his beautiful long lashes. And that one look, with Eddie on his knees in front of him, tongue darting out to lick his lips, had Steve weak in the knees, another whimper escaping.

"Can I?"

Steve knew what Eddie was asking for and he was desperate to have Eddie's mouth on him, desperate for release. He nodded.

"Yes. Please."

Eddie's lips curved into a smirk. He liked the idea of Steve begging but he would save that for another time. For now he just wanted to make Steve feel good. They would explore later. He undid Steve's jeans, sliding them down along with his boxers until his erection sprang free, the tip already flushed pink and leaking precum.

Eddie groaned at the sight before licking it up just to taste him. Steve's hips jerked, his flesh already sensitive and chasing that sensation, his hands gripping the counter so tight his knuckles turned white. And then Eddie's mouth was on him, hot and wet, soft lips wrapped around his length, dragging his tongue along the vein and sucking. His hand was wrapped around the base, the metal of his rings cool against Steve's heated skin.

Steve's hand flew into Eddie's hair, gripping tightly as he let his head fall back, his eyes fluttering shut and a moan escaping. Eddie set to work, and his mouth was magic. Thumb stroking the underside of Steve's length, tongue swirling around the head of his cock, lips dragging up and down the flesh as he worked his mouth, hand gently squeezing and twisting at the base.

And Steve was a moaning, whimpering, writhing mess. Eddie's name fell from his lips like a prayer, hand gently tugging on Eddie's curls, which pulled a groan from Eddie. And the vibration went straight to Steve's dick, heat coiling in his lower belly. He could feel his orgasm coming, knew that if Eddie kept this up he wasn't gonna last much longer. Eddie's mouth and hand was just too damn good. 

"Fuck. Eddie I'm gonna...."

He tried to warn Eddie, but his voice broke off into a moan when Eddie deepthroated him, his tip hitting the back of Eddie's throat. His hips jerked again, his orgasm tearing through him, hot cum spilling into Eddie's mouth. His world became fuzzy and all he could feel was sheer bliss. Eddie swallowed every last drop, dragging his tongue across Steve's flesh again until Steve was whimpering because of the over sensitivity. Finally Eddie pulled his mouth away and Steve lifted his head to look down at Eddie.

"Fuck, that was incredible."

His chest was heaving and Eddie was smirking as he hiked Steve's boxers and jeans back up and fixed them.

"You're so fucking beautiful when you cum for me." 

Eddie's voice was deeper now, huskier, thick with lust. And Steve loved that sound. It was the sexiest sound he'd ever heard. Eddie stood up, pressing kisses along Steve's throat, where a hickey was already blooming, dark and purple. Steve groaned softly.

"I want to make you feel good too."

Eddie smiled softly.

"I'll be just fine baby."

Steve's knees almost buckled at the beautiful pet name. 

"Please Eddie. I want to." 

Steve could feel how hard Eddie was and he wanted to bring him pleasure, just like Eddie had done for him. He cupped Eddie's length, palming him through his jeans and Eddie groaned.

"Fuck baby, you're so hard to resist when you touch me like that."

"So don't resist."

Another groan escaped from Eddie and Steve undid his belt and jeans, sliding them down. Eddie's length was revealed and he was an impressive size. Eddie's cock was throbbing, aching, the cool air sensitive against his skin. And then Steve was touching him, his thumb dragging across the slit, gathering up the precum. He wanted to taste Eddie, just a little, and he licked it up from his thumb, groaning at the taste.

He started with gentle strokes, fingertips gliding across the flesh, sending shivers down Eddie's spine. Then he was gripping Eddie's length and pumping him, torturously slow until Eddie was groaning. Then he was sliding down to his knees, taking Eddie in his mouth to return the favor. He'd never sucked dick before, but he'd taken note of everything Eddie had done, and wanted to bring him the same amount of pleasure. 

And he did, working his mouth and hand until Eddie was spilling down his throat, groans and whimpers filling the air. Steve pulled away when Eddie grew oversensitive, fixing his clothes and standing up. And Eddie was pulling him into a desperate and hungry kiss, tasting himself on Steve's tongue.

And Steve knew that wherever Eddie was, is where he wanted to be. They pulled back for air, before diving in again, these kisses were slower, sweeter, more affectionate, Eddie's fingers dragging through Steve's hair. Steve wanted to bask in this moment and so he did. Because Eddie was the first person he was kissing just for the simple fact that he wanted to. He was addicted to Eddie's lips, he was addicted to Eddie. And he knew there was no going back now. Eddie was the only thing he wanted.

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: 12/? 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:

Heavy smut warning

Forbidden Love Part Nine

Steve ended up staying an entire week at Eddie's. Borrowing his clothes, which he very much loved because they smelled like him. He even wore them to work and Robin was ecstatic, happy that Steve had found someone he was truly happy with. For now he still had his car and money, and he assumed it was because his parents were working on a way to make him marry this Marissa girl. Well Steve wouldn't have it. 

It was a Sunday morning and Steve was just starting to wake up. Eddie's arms were wrapped around him from behind, his chest flush against Steve's back and their legs tangled together. He could tell Eddie was awake, because his thumb was tracing lazy circles on Steve's lower belly, and it was sending heat straight to his dick.

Emitting a low groan, he pressed against Eddie, shifting his hips so his ass would grind against Eddie's groin. Eddie's arms tightened around him, dropping kisses to Steve's bare shoulder.

"Baby, if you keep doing that I'm gonna wanna fuck you," Eddie whispered in Steve's ear, his hand now trailing down to the waistband of Steve's boxers, teasing. Not quite sliding in, but playing with the little happy trail. 

Steve groaned again, pressing harder against Eddie, who was rock hard now. Eddie started sucking and nibbling on every inch of Steve's skin that he could find, his throat, his shoulder, his back. And his hand slid further down, finding Steve's erection and wrapping his hand around it, squeezing gently and giving it a few pumps.

"Please Eddie."

Eddie's lips curved into a smirk.

"Please what baby? If you want me to do something, you have to beg for it."

"Please fuck me. I want to feel you, I want you inside me, please."

Steve could hear the desperation in his own voice, but he wanted to feel all of Eddie, he wanted to be brought to the height of pleasure. Eddie pulled his hand away and Steve whined at the loss of touch. A chuckle escaped Eddie's throat. 

"Don't worry baby, I have lots planned for you."

He took Steve's boxers and slid them off, licking his lips at the sight of Steve's perfectly curved ass. He gave each cheek a squeeze and a kiss before he dove right in, working his magical tongue around Steve's hole. 

Steve's body jerked, a moan escaping at the new sensation. He knew the wonders Eddie's mouth could do. Without pulling away from Steve, Eddie reached over and grabbed his bottle of lube, squeezing a generous amount onto his fingers. He worked his tongue, like a man starved until Steve was whimpering and writhing, then pulled away.

"No touching yourself, not yet baby," Eddie instructed. With his lubed up fingers, he gently pressed them into Steve's hole, one finger at a time to ease him open. Steve was clutching the sheets now, groaning and whimpering as Eddie's fingers teased and stroked and played with him.

When he was satisfied, he added a third finger, curling them up to hit that sweet spot that had Steve writhing and gasping his name, and then yet again, begging to be fucked. Pulling his fingers away, Eddie slid his boxers off, put on a condom and shifted Steve so that he was lying on his back. 

He applied a little more lube, wanting this to be as pleasurable as possible for Steve. Then he hooked his hands under Steve's knees, pulling his legs up and around his waist to give him the perfect access, and he lined himself up with Steve's hole.

"You ready baby?"

Steve was already nodding 

"Please. Please Eddie, I need you."

Eddie leaned down and kissed him, hard.

"Fuck, I love it when you beg. When you say my name. I want to see how many sounds I can bring out of you."

Eddie slowly eased inside, groaning at how hot and tight Steve was. When he bottomed out, he waited to let Steve adjust, waited for the nod of confirmation. And then he was moving, a slow pace at first until Steve was urging him to go faster and harder.

He picked up the pace, Steve trying to match Eddie's thrusts, impaling himself on Eddie's cock. A quick change of angle and Eddie was hitting Steve's prostate, his hips snapping against his ass. And Steve was loud. Responsive. Clutching at the sheets, loud moans, Eddie's name falling from his lips.

Eddie continued his thrusts, hitting that same spot again that had Steve nearly screaming from pleasure and Eddie's mouth trailed over every inch of skin, licking, sucking, kissing, biting, leaving marks all over his body. Steve's cock was rock hard, the tip flushed red and leaking precum.

"You can touch yourself now."

Eddie's voice trailed off in a low groan, because Steve didn't even let him finish before he was stroking himself and getting himself off. And with just a few more thrusts, they both came together, a long drawn out moan escaping Eddie and Steve's mouth open in a silent scream, his body convulsing from the sheer pleasure.

They rode out their orgasms together before Eddie slowly pulled out, drawing a whine from Steve that Eddie drank down with a hungry kiss. And then he was praising Steve, telling him how good he was, how much he loved watching Steve come apart. And Steve was glowing at the praise.

Eddie discarded the condom and got up, grabbing a washcloth to clean themselves, before laying back down and wrapping Steve in his arms, stealing kisses until their lips were melded together in slow, languid kisses.

"I love you Eddie. I love you so fucking much."

Steve's fingers were tangled in Eddie's hair, twisting and playing with the curls. And Eddie's heart fluttered, his belly erupted in butterflies. Because those words were everything Eddie wanted to hear. He blinked back his tears and stole a long and deep kiss from Steve.

"I love you too sweetheart."

And together they relaxed and fell back asleep.

Chapters: 13/? 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:

Smut Warning

Forbidden Love Part Ten

With Steve's relationship blooming beautifully and having come out to his friends and parents, he was ready to let go of his past and embark on a new journey inofe. One with Eddie. Steve was the happiest he'd ever been. A beautiful and loving relationship, good friends. He felt weightless, happy. His life was exactly what he wanted it to be. 

Eddie had gone with Steve back to his parents place so Steve could pack his things and move into Eddie's trailer. When they entered the house, Steve's parents were sitting on the couch, along with a very pretty blonde haired blue eyed girl. And despite how pretty she was, Steve's eyes did not linger. He felt nothing towards her.

He knew that she must be Marissa. There was also some papers sitting on the coffee table. The second his father caught sight of Eddie, his face turned red with anger. Not only because Eddie Munson of all people was in his house, but because Steve had recently told them he was in a relationship with a man. He didn't know how much Marissa knew but he didn't feel the need to hide.

"Hey, Eds, can you wait for me upstairs?"

"Course."

Eddie gave his hand a squeeze before disappearing up the stairs. Steve then rounded on his parents, arms crossed.

"I'm not staying long. Just getting my things. You can keep the car."

"You're not going anywhere Steven," his mother says pursing her lips.

"This is a marriage license. There won't be a grand wedding. But you and Marissa are getting married. Right here. Right now," his father says.

Steve sucks in a breath.

"Yeah, no. Sorry Marissa, I don't know you, And you're probably lovely, but I said no to this from the beginning. So if you don't mind, I'm gonna go help my boyfriend pack my things."

"Wait, you're gay?" Marissa says.

"Bisexual. I like both. But I'm dating a guy. And I have no plans to end said relationship, because I'm quite happy."

"If you even think of touching each other in an inappropriate way..." His father says but Steve cut him off.

"Yeah that ship has sailed. We've sucked each others dicks and he's fucked me. Sorry I'm not the perfect son you wanted. Sorry that I'm fucking queer. But I finally feel like myself. This is who I've always been. It's just. Out in the open now."

Eddie must have been rubbing off on him, because Steve was never this confident when it came to standing up to his parents. And he was proud of himself. Terrified still, but proud of himself. 

"Marissa has already signed it. And so will you," his mother says pushing the paper and pen towards him.

"Or what?" Steve challenges.

"Or we tell the police about Eddie's. Illegal activities."

Steve's heart dropped. He didn't want to lose Eddie, and he knew that if he got caught, he'd go to jail. But Steve wasn't going to back down. He was going to stay true to himself and protect Eddie at the same time.

"The whole town already knows about his dealings. But if you rat him out. That means you have to rat me out. Because I accompany his deals, make a few of my own," Steve lied through his teeth.

"And we all know that would tear down the Harrington image you've so carefully crafted together. So," Steve says picking up the paper. And then he rips it.

"You won't be telling anyone shit. And I won't be marrying Marissa. Have a good day!" He says with an Eddie Munson like smile.

Then he was climbing the stairs. The second he reached the top Eddie was pressing him against the wall, eyes dark with lust.

"That was so fucking hot. The way you stood up for yourself, so confident, the way you backed them into a corner, protected me. So fucking hot."

Steve grinned.

"You can thank yourself for rubbing off on me."

Eddie's own grin appeared and then he was kissing Steve, hard and hungry, hands tangled in each others hair, groans escaping and tongues, lips and teeth clashing together. Vaguely, Steve registered that Eddie was guiding him to his bedroom. A suitcase was sitting on his bed half packed, clothes and toiletries spilled about the room.

Eddie kicked the door shut, and slid down to his knees, bringing Steve's jeans and boxers down with him. Steve threaded his fingers through Eddie's curls and gripped as Eddie wasted no time taking him into his mouth. Steve didn't bother to keep quiet. Eddie's mouth and tongue was too good, hot and wet, licking and sucking and Steve was seeing stars.

Steve knew he wasn't going to last long, not this time. With a gutteral groan he was tugging on Eddie's hair and spilling down his throat. Eddie's mouth worked him until he was oversensitive and whimpering. Then he pulled away with a smirk and fixed Steve's clothes. Standing up, they stole a few lingering kisses before they finished packing.

Then they were bounding down the stairs, Eddie leading him by the hand, stupid grins on their faces. Reentering the living room he could see the looks of shock and disgust on his parents faces. Marissa seemed more embarrassed than anything. Right. He hadn't been quiet. And he couldn't help but grin again.

Then he was tugging Eddie close and kissing him, right there in front of his parents. And Eddie was grinning into the kiss. They finally pulled away when they needed air and Steve shot a salute to his parents. 

"See you never!"

And then they were out the door and in Eddie's van, his bag tossed to the back. And once they were on the road, Steve shifted in his seat, sliding further down. Eddie's eyes flicked over to watch him.

"What are you doing?"

Steve grinned.

"Returning the favor."

He winked and then he was undoing Eddie's belt and jeans. Eddie sucked in a breath, gripping the steering wheel tighter.

"Baby, I am not gonna last long if you're giving me car head."

Steve grinned again, freeing Eddie's achingly hard cock.

"Don't care. Wanna make you feel good."

Eddie went to say something but it was quickly cut off with a groan when he felt Steve's mouth on him. He gripped the steering wheel, trying to stay steady as he drove, while Steve sucked him off. One hand held onto the steering wheel, his eyes staying trained on the road and the other hand gripped at Steve's hair.

He could feel his orgasm quickly approaching, and curses fell from his lips, his hips jerking on instinct to fuck into Steve's mouth. And then he was cumming, hot and thick down Steve's throat who drank it all up.

When Steve pulled back with an obscene sound, he was licking his lips, and Eddie almost came again right on the spot.

"Fuck, that was so hot."

His voice was raspy as he spoke, and Steve was fixing him up, grinning at him. His cheeks were flushed, he looked like he was in bliss and he was smiling. 

"You got me off. Wanted to get you off too."

Eddie's heart melted, because Steve cared about Eddie's desires just as much as his own.

"I fucking love you."

Steve's smile was soft and adoring.

"I love you too."

He stole a few quick kisses from Eddie, feeling nothing but love and adoration for the beautiful wild haired man and they were both smiling now.

(And that's it. A short ten chapter fic that at some point soon I'll put into it's own book)

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: 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.

Chapters: 16/? 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

Confessions

Eddie was in pain. So much pain. His mouth tasted hot and coppery, the blood filling it as the bats tore at him. It was all he could feel. Tearing flesh, hot warm blood, searing pain. Then he felt heavy. He couldn't move, it hurt when Dustin tried to move him. It hurt to talk but he did it anyway. A final goodbye to Dustin. And then darkness crept in.

Eddie wasn't sure how long he'd been in the dark. His hearing was slowly coming back to him and he could hear high pitched beeping. Then his feeling came back. He felt heavy, couldn't move. He was still blanketed in darkness but he could hear and feel. He tried to open his eyes but they wouldn't budge. Tried to make a sound but nothing came out. 

He didn't know where he was or what time it was. He was definitely sure that he was dead, and maybe he was in Hell, because that beeping was starting to get annoying. Panic began to rise in his chest because he felt trapped, couldn't move, couldn't speak, couldn't see anything but darkness.

Then he heard a voice. He had to strain his ears to listen but that voice was familiar. Telling someone to go home, eat, shower and sleep. A low voice with a slight southern drawl. It clicked. His uncle Wayne. Whoever he was talking to had to be protesting because Wayne sighed but didn't say anything else. His senses began to slip away again.

The next time Eddie came to, it was the same sensations as before. But it was louder now, a gaggle of voices. Some he could recognize, some he couldn't. It was too loud, it made his head hurt. He didn't stay as long this time, senses slipping away again. 

Eddie came to a third time. This tine everything was heightened. The weight of his body, the feel of the bed underneath him, the pillow under his head, the clothes he was wearing, the blanket draped over him. A hand tangled with his, clutching tightly. And his body hurt. Everything hurt.

This time when he tried to peel his eyes open, they did. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust. More darkness but not like the darkness he'd been trapped in. Just a dark room. The beeping drew his attention, and there. A heart monitor. He was in a hospital. He turned his head and stared.

The hand tangled in his belonged to none other than Steve Harrington. It looked like Steve hadn't gone home and changed since the Upside Down. He was still wearing the same outfit, though he did look like he'd been tended to. And he was asleep, curled up in an armchair next to Eddie's bed, his free arm tucked under his head. 

His chest rose and fell with each steady breath. His hand that held Eddie's was clutching tightly, fingers intertwined. That aching pain in his body flared up and his mouth was dry, his throat was scratchy.

"Steve."

His voice came out as nothing but a hoarse whisper. He tried again.

"Steve."

It took a few tries but finally he was loud enough to wake Steve up. He jolted up, eyes wide and then they locked on Eddie. His hand squeezed gently.

"Eddie?"

"Hey."

Eddie tried to swallow, wincing at how dry and scratchy his throat was.

"Shit, here."

Steve pulled his hand away and Eddie almost whimpered at the loss of contact. But then Steve's arms were there, helping him sit up before grabbing a glass of water and helping him drink small sips until it was drained.

"Am I dead?"

The corner of Steve's lips curled up in amusement.

"No, very much alive. You're in the hospital."

Eddie let out a sigh, head falling back against the pillow. 

"It hurts."

Immediately concern crossed Steve's beautiful features. 

"What hurts?"

"Everything. Everything hurts."

"I'll call a nurse to get you some morphine."

Steve pressed the call button and then took Eddie's hand again, raising it to his lips and pressing a kiss to his knuckles. Eddie's heart fluttered and butterflies erupted in his belly. Yes, throughout Spring Break Eddie had fallen head over heels for Steve, but the man was straight. Or at least that's what he thought.

"What time is it?"

"Just after midnight. You've been out for three days. Doctors had to give you a blood transfusion and a few skin grafts. But you'll be ok."

"I'm going to jail when I get out of here."

Eddie knew it was going to happen, he was wanted for three counts of murder. But Steve shook his head.

"That's been taken care of. You're name's clear."

Eddie frowned in confusion.

"But. How?"

Steve smiled then, reaching out to smooth out the crease in Eddie's forehead with his thumb. More butterflies erupted, confusion deepening. Steve had never been this touchy or affectionate before and it was throwing him off guard.

"Dr. Owens. He's a friend of ours, has connections. He was able to clear your name."

"Good. That's. That's good."

Steve was brushing his fingers through Eddie's tangled hair now.

"You should get some more rest," he says as a nurse came in and administered a dose of morphine.

"And you should go home. Take a shower, change, eat."

Steve shook his head, and Eddie almost purred when those fingers scratched his scalp.

"I'm not going anywhere. I don't want to miss anything. And I don't want you to be alone."

Eddie knew Steve was stubborn so he sighed.

"Then promise me you'll at least do it in the morning? And if you really don't want to be away for too long you can sleep here again."

Steve sighed. 

"Ok. I promise. Get some rest ok?"

"Only if you keep playing with my hair like this. And don't. Tell anyone I ever said that, I have a reputation to keep."

Steve huffed out a soft laugh.

"Deal. And I won't tell anyone."

Satisfied, Eddie closed his eyes. He was feeling tired again.

"Hey Steve?"

"Hm?"

"You've never been this. Affectionate with me before."

Eddie opened his eyes again to look at Steve.

"You almost died. God, I almost lost you. Spring Break was. A whirlwind. For all of us but. Especially for me. Because in the middle of everything we were dealing with. I had a sexuality crisis. Turns out I'm bisexual. I didn't figure that out until it was almost too late. Because I had a chance there. To tell you. That. That I wanted you. Cared about you. In a way that. Is definitely more than friendship. 

And I didn't take that chance. And I almost lost that chance for good. So now that you're here. And ok. I'm not losing that chance again. And I don't care if I get branded a Freak. I don't care if my parents disown me. Because everything is worth it. If I get to be with you. You're worth it."

Eddie had to blink back the oncoming tears.

"I've never been worth anything to anyone. Except maybe Wayne."

"You're worth it to me. And to everybody else who loves you."

"So I guess you're not getting back together with Nancy then?"

Steve snorted, another soft laugh escaping him.

"No. I'm already taken by a beautiful badass metalhead."

Eddie's own laugh escaped.

"How did you know flattery works with me?"

"Because you do have an ego. And it's gonna be the death of me, because I'm gonna keep inflating it."

Eddie laughed again.

"Come here pretty boy."

Eddie gently tugged Steve down until their lips connected, a slow and sweet kiss. And everything Eddie needed and wanted.

Chapters: 17/? 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

(Inspired by Another Life by Motionless In White)

Another Life

1986. Steve discovers he's bisexual. Falls head over heels in love with Eddie Munson. They never make it to a kiss or confessions. Because Eddie dies. But Steve vows, that he'll meet Eddie again. In another life. He'll find Eddie again. In another life. Steve dies two years later fighting Vecna. 

In 1990 Steve is reborn. Born to two lovely supporting parents in New York and they name him Alex. But by the time Alex is old enough to start remembering things, memories flood back. He remembers Hawkins. He remembers the 80's. He remembers his life. He remembers the Upside Down. And most of all. He remembers Eddie.

By the age of ten Alex came out to his parents as bisexual. The Harringtons had been homophobic. But Alex's parents were loving. Supportive. Accepting. In the year 2010 Alex is 20 years old. He's spent his life, searching and searching for Eddie. A new life.

Finally on a slow Thursday afternoon he spots it. A tattoo parlor called Aces and Spades. What caught his attention was the person in the window. Alex looked slightly different, but mostly the same as when he was Steve. He still loved his hair just as much, though it was a lighter color, blondish brown. His eyes were more amber gold than anything, but the rest of him remained the same.

And standing at the counter inside the tattoo parlor was a man that had plagued Alex's dreams his whole life. He looked exactly the same. Same wild brown curls down to his shoulders. Same beautidul vibrant chocolate brown eyes. Same style in fashion, though this man added eyeliner and black nail polish.

Alex's heart leapt to his throat. He'd vowed in his previous life to fond Eddie in the next one. And he had. The shop didn't seem to have any customers and immediately he knee what to do. He was going to get a tattoo. He prayed that Eddie remembered just like Alex do. Taking a deep breath Alex opened the door and stepped inside.

And the second Eddie's head lofted and that beautiful smile appeared, the wind was knocked out of him. He was just as beautiful as Alex remembered. This Eddie had much more tattoos and different tattoos than the previous life's Eddie, but he still looked gorgeous. Eddie stuck out his hand. 

"Hi, I'm Jayden. What can I do for you?"

Swallowing the lump in his throat, Alex shook Jayden's hand.

"I'm Alex. Um. I was. Wanting to get a tattoo."

There was no recognition on Jayden's face, just a kind smile that lit up when Alex said he wanted a tattoo.

"Sure thing, you have an idea?"

"Oh, yeah."

Together the two of them worked out what Alex wanted and Jayden drew it up. Then Alex was sitting in a chair with his shirt off. Jayden shaved half his chest so the tattoo could go right above Alex's heart. The two chatted throughout the long session, easy conversation. And Jayden was much the same as he had been when he was Eddie.

"So. The 80's look," Alex says.

Jayden's face lit up.

"Oh yeah! I really like the look. My dad was a big 80's metalhead fan so I kinda grew up with it."

Alex couldn't help but smile.

"It suits you."

Alex kept throwing out hints of their previous life, hoping Jayden remembered something. But nothing came of it. When Jayden finished the tattoo it was beautiful. Exactly what Alex wanted. Eddie's Warlock guitar crossed with Steve's nail bat.

He hoped the tattoo would stir something. And now that Jayden was actually looking at the finished tattoo, he was frowning.

"These look familiar. Don't know why, but they do."

Alex sucked in a breath.

"You don't remember your previous life, do you?"

Jayden's eyes lifted to meet Alex's, his eyebrows shooting up.

"I don't think anybody remembers their previous life."

"I remember mine. I was born in 1966. Lived in Hawkins Indiana. Rich parents who were. Pretty shitty actually. I played basketball and baseball, was on the swim team. And after high school. I met you. I mean previous life you. This," Alex says tapping on the Warlock guitar tattooed on his chest.

"Was your guitar. You were in a metal band, Corroded Coffin. A year older than me, but still in high school. And the nail bat was mine. Because we fought against an alternate dimension, supernatural creatures in 1986. That was. That was the year you died. And I died two years later. Fighting the same thing."

Jayden was staring at him now, blinking and trying to process this information.

"I. This sounds. It sounds crazy."

"I know. I know it doesn't make sense, but I remember. I remember everything. I remember vowing. That I would find you in another life. The next life. And maybe that vow is why I remember that life, I don't know."

Jayden's eyes were wide, mouth opening and closing.

"How do you know it was me? I mean in this life, how do you know it's me?"

"You look the same. Nothing about you has changed. Maybe your life and your family, but your soul. Your soul has remained the same, who you are has remained the same. What you look like has remained the same."

Jayden blinked again. 

"If all of this is true. Why. Why would you make a vow like that, I mean what was I to you?"

Alex's mouth went dry.

"We never got the chance to figure that out. We never got the chance to talk about it. We were dealing with bigger things, scarier things. But I. Jesus, I fell in love with you. And I never got to tell you and then you. You died. So I vowed that in another life I would find you again."

Jayden sucked in another breath.

"How am I supposed to believe any of this?"

"I don't know. And even if you never do. I just. At least I got to tell you this time. What you mean to me."

Alex could tell Jayden needed time so they awkwardly finished up, Alex paid, left his address and phone number just in case. And then left.

Over the next week Jayden took time off and started doing as much research as he could. He searched Hawkins Indiana 1986, pulled up as many articles as he could find. And then obituaries. He found Steve Harrington's from 1989. And then he found Eddie Munson's from 1986. 

He had been branded a murderer, accused of killing three high school students and had gone missing and was presumed dead in an earthquake. Seeing the picture of Steve Harrington had already had him questioning if all of this was real because he looked almost exactly like Alex.

And then he saw Eddie Munson's picture from his Hellfire Club group in the yearbook. And Jayden looked just like Eddie. And then visions flooded Jayden's mind. Vivid ones. Chrissy's death. Meeting Steve. Patrick's death. The Upside Down. The bats. Shredding Metallica's Master Of Puppets. Bats tearing at his flesh.

Memories. Jayden gasped and rubbed his head which was now starting to hurt. He remembered. He remembered it all. He scrambled off his chair, searching frantically for Alex's address, because calling him just wouldn't do. Once he found it, he got in his car and drove to Alex's apartment.

Alex was eating a frozen dinner and watching a rerun of Friends when he heard frantic knocking on his door. Frowning he got up and went to the door, swinging it open. Jayden was there, eyes wide and breathing heavily.

"I remember. Steve. I remember."

Alex blinked a few times.

"Eddie?"

Jayden surged forward then, mouths crashing together and hands cupping Alex's cheeks. It was a hungry and desperate kiss, mouths and tongues tangling as Alex pulled him in, kicking the door shut behind them. They kissed until they could barely breathe and finally they pulled away.

"You remember?"

"I remember it all. God, why did I tell you to make him pay instead of fucking kissing you?"

Alex started crying then. Because Jayden did remember. He held Jayden tighter. 

"God, why didn't I kiss you? I knew that wasn't what you really wanted to say, I knew there was something else there."

"Neither of us expected it to be the last time we would see each other. But Steve you found me. In another life, you fucking found me."

"I was always looking. Always looking, and I never gave up. I would spend this entire life looking for you if I had to."

"God I love you so fucking much."

"I love you too Eddie. In our previous life. In this life. In the next one. In every life."

Chapters: 18/? 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:

Soulmate Part Two

Steve couldn't get enough of looking at his soulmate tattoo. It was always strange to see the black ink on his otherwise pale and empty skin. But then he would brush his fingers over it and it would hit him. A soulmate. Someone completely meant for him. And he was completely meant for someone. But not just someone. Eddie Munson.

He'd told Robin the second he'd had a chance and she'd been shocked. No one would've ever seen the two of them being paired together. But in hindsight, they weren't so different. Steve did get to know Eddie. They would spend nights down at the quarry watching the stars while they smoked and talked.

They would spend free afternoons at Eddie's or Steve's, watching movies and ordering pizza and drinking beer. Eddie had opened up about his past. A loving mother who had passed when he was six. A father who was in and out of his life, sometimes gone for years at a time. Only ever coming back to rope Eddie into illegal activities and bail.

The last time Eddie had seen or spoken to his father was when he was 18. He'd had a shot at a record deal in LA and his father had roped him into a robbery. Stealing 20 pounds of weed and selling it to Reefer Rick for $15,000 so he could go to LA. But his father had lied to him, used him, manipulated him. 

The people they'd stolen from had been old coworkers of his father's, having worked for a drug kingpin. They'd figured out who had stolen from them, almost shot Eddie, burned down the Munson house and shot Officer Callahan. And Eddie, ever the sweet boy, had tried to help save Officer Callahan. 

His father knew Eddie would get arrested and tried to convince Eddie to leave, to go to LA. Eddie had refused so his father had bailed. And yes, Eddie had been arrested. For nothing more than being arrested, because nobody knew about the robbery he'd pulled off.

There were more details to the story. He'd had a girlfriend who was a scout for the record label in LA and had gotten Eddie the audition. He was supposed to move in with her in LA. He'd quit his job as a bartender at the Hideout. Principle Higgins had called him a rotten apple infecting others and blackmailed him to drop out.

His girlfriend had called him an asshole, broken up with him while he was in jail when he told her he couldn't make the audition then bailed him out. From there, no one would hire Eddie. He'd moved in with his Uncle Wayne and they were drowning in bills. So he'd turned to the only thing he could do. Selling drugs for Reefer Rick.

He'd blackmailed Principle Higgins into letting him go back to school and keep his Hellfire Club open. No, they weren't so different. Two broken boys with a shitty home life, shitty parents. Because Eddie had raised himself, lived alone from the time he was eight.

Eddie wasn't what people made him out to be. He wasn't a Freak. He wasn't a Satanist or a Devil Worshipper. He was a man with passions. He loved music, even if it was different from Steve's taste. Steve could appreciate Eddie's music because of what it did for him emotionally. He was a nerd, he loved fantasy. And Steve had a new appreciation for those things.

Because everything Eddie did, was beautiful. Steve had started going to Corroded Coffin's shows, he'd started sitting in on Hellfire sessions. And he got to see how truly happy Eddie was during those times. And Eddie got to know Steve. Parents who were never around, had started leaving Steve alone for long periods of time when he was ten.

Parents who would absolutely be homophobic. Parents who expected Steve to be perfect, unrealistic expectations of Steve. Steve loved sports because it helped him clear his head. And while neither of them understood each others passions, both made an effort to learn. Steve loved the kids because he loved helping others.

After years of being told he was useless, he loved feeling useful. The boys balanced each other out beautifully. And they both loved hard. They were perfect for each other and the universe knew that. It was why they were bound as soulmates.

As they grew closer, they fell for each other. Eddie fell first, hard and fast. But Steve fell harder. Their first kiss was on top of Eddie's trailer, looking up at the stars. The first time they made love was when Steve's parents had come home and ridiculed him for his soulmate tattoo. They'd all but announced their homophobia and their views on Eddie. 

And Steve had finally put his foot down, fought back. Defended Eddie and their connection. He'd disowned his parents, packed his bags and moved to the trailer where they made love. The first time they said I love you was on their third official date.

A picnic in the woods by Lover's Lake where they'd cuddled together, had a fire, Eddie had played his acoustic guitar and they'd gone skinny dipping in the water. It was saying I Love You that gave Steve the strength to come out. To no longer hide his sexuality with anyone. Not his friends, not Hawkins. He came out to the whole town and proudly showed off that Eddie was his soulmate.

And Steve and Eddie were the happiest they'd ever been in their lives. Two broken boys who needed love. Two souls intertwined for all of eternity. Two people the universe had deemed worthy of eternal love. Because soulmates were bound together until the end of time.

Their souls would find each other in every life. Their love would withstand any and every storm. They were meant to be. Had been soulmates in their previous lives and were soulmates in this life. The world was finally going to be ready for them. Starting with this life.

Chapters: 19/? 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

Second Chance

1989. It had been two years since Eddie had died in the Upside Down. In those two years Steve had taken the time to figure out why Eddie's death had hit him so hard. He'd fallen in love with him. He was always upkeeping Eddie's grave, removing vandalism, laying down fresh flowers and sitting there for hours on end, just to imagine that he could feel Eddie's presence.

But things were changing again. Steve could feel it in his bones, in his soul. Vecna was rising again. Nancy's visions were going to come true. It was just a gut feeling. And then one of them did. It was a town wide panic. The Upside Down pouring into Hawkins.

Demobats, Demodogs, Demogorgons, other monsters, Vecna himself. Pouring out of four giant gates that had split Hawkins open. Most of Hawkins ran screaming for the hills, tried to evacuate. Some were not successful. But Steve was right in the thick of it with his trusty nail bat, along with Joyce, Hopper, Murry, Johnathon, Nancy, Robin, Dustin, Mike, El, Lucas, Erica and Max, who had thankfully woken up from her coma.

She was blind but she moved better than anyone with her other senses heightened. Steve was swinging his way through a group of Demodogs when he saw it. Eddie. He was climbing his way up through one of the gates. He looked normal, aside from his torn, blood and dirt covered clothing, the outfit he'd died in. But his eyes were not his beautiful vibrant chocolate brown. They were blood red. 

There was no recognition on Eddie's face, just pure hunger. And then fangs, right where his canines should be. Despite looking the same, he was stronger, faster. Sinking fangs into flesh, blood spurting out, drinking it down like a man starved. This definitely wouldn't help his false murder accusations. And Steve was stock still, the breath leaving his lungs.

His heart was pounding in his chest as he watched Eddie drain a body and then let go, letting it collapse to the ground. Fresh blood was smeared across his chin, trickling down the corners of his lips. It was like he was in slow motion as he turned to face Steve, blood red eyes locking on his whiskey colored ones. No recognition.

Eddie looked properly dangerous now. Gone was the sweet, funny childlike man. In his place stood a dangerous predator, locking onto its next meal. For a moment the two had a stare down. And then Eddie was lunging forward, teeth bared, fangs glistening with blood and an animalistic growl ripping from his throat.

Steve was frozen until Eddie moved, and on sheer instict he brought up his bat to block Eddie's body from colliding with his. Blood streaked lips were curled into a snarl as they wrestled with the bat until Eddie managed to rip it away, tossing it out of reach. Eddie was circling him now. Stalking his pray.

And then he lunged forward again, tackling Steve to the ground. The weight of his body pressed down on him, hands pinning him to the ground and teeth gnashing together, desperately trying to reach Steve's throat. Steve was just as desperate, grunts escaping and arm thrown out to try and reach his bat, lying just out of reach. 

If he could just stretch his arm a little further the bat would brush against his fingertips. The other arm was pressed up against Eddie's chest to hold him off, but Eddie was strong. Steve was growing weaker while Eddie wasn't wearing out at all. Tears stung the corner of Steve's eyes.

"Eddie please. Please it's me, it's Steve. You have to remember."

Still no recognition. Finally he managed to grab the bat, bringing the base to slam against Eddie's ribs. Once. Twice. Three times. Eddie's grip loosened, and it was just enough for Steve to get his knee up, right in the groin. A howl escaped from Eddie as he finally let go. Dropping the bat, Steve shifted them, one swift movement and now his body had Eddie pinned to the ground.

"Eddie come on, it's me! It's Steve!" He shouted, grabbing Eddie by the shoulders and shaking him.

He kept yelling for Eddie to remember, kept shaking him, tears blurring his vision but nothing was working. In a last desperate attempt, Steve did the only thing he could think of. He kissed Eddie. Mouth crashing down, lips and teeth colliding, tongue tasting the copper of blood and the plush softness of Eddie's lips.

It was a desperate and needy kiss, and it clearly did something because Eddie stopped thrashing. He went still, but Steve didn't care. He kissed Eddie until he had to come up for air. Chest heaving, he brushed away his tears, his own mouth now smeared with blood. And Eddie was staring at him.

No more uncontrollable hunger, just wide eyes, lips parted and panting. Then finally he spoke, voice cracked and shaky.

"Steve?"

Steve wasn't sure who moved first, but they were kissing again, just as needy, just as hungry as the first kiss, hands tangled in hair, soft sobs of relief escaping Steve between kisses.

"Steve. Baby."

Steve pulled back, trembling slightly.

"Fuck I'm so sorry. I could've killed you, shit I have killed people, my god I'm gonna end up in jail, death penalty..."

"Shhh, shhh," Steve hushed him, a gentle kiss to his lips.

"It's ok. It's gonna be ok. We're gonna win this time. And um. Fairly certain we can tell the truth now without fear of being called crazy. It's gonna be ok, it's all gonna be ok. We'll figure it out."

"I'm scared Steve. About all of this."

"I know. But I'll be with you through all of it. It'll be ok. You're gonna get your second chance. I promise."

"Second chance."

"Yeah. Second chance."

They were in their own little bubble, battle raging around them, but neither cared. Right now, all they needed was each other. An unspoken promise that they were going to get through it. All of it. Together.

Chapters: 10/10 Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Eddie Munson, Steve Harrington, Steve Harrington's Parents, Dustin Henderson, Robin Buckley, Nancy Wheeler, Maxine "Max" Mayfield, Mike Wheeler, Lucas Sinclair Summary:

Forbidden Love is now its own book on AO3. Don't worry, I have more stuff coming

Chapters: 1/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Steve Harrington, Eddie Munson, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Vecna (Stranger Things) Summary:

One of my readers suggested I turn this one shot into a short little fic and I loved the idea, so here it is

Chapter One

1986. The Upside Down. They'd taken down Vecna but the clock had chimed four times. Max had died. The ground had rumbled, the giant gates had opened into Hawkins. Somehow Max had come back and was in a coma, probably blind and had broken legs and broken arms. And Eddie. Steve had found Dustin sobbing and holding Eddie's limp body in his lap, the swarm of bats dead all around them.

That moment had mixed feelings for Steve. He wasn't sure what to think about those feelings. Intense grief that he didn't understand, he'd barely known the guy. He'd felt the world stop spinning, he'd lost all sight of everything except Eddie. He didn't cry, though he wanted to. Instead he let anger flow through his veins.

Yes he had only known Eddie for about a week, but he had been charming and sweet and had been awakening something unknown in Steve. Eddie couldn't hurt a fly, even if he wanted to. So why did Eddie have to die? What made him so unworthy of life? It wasn't fair.

Pulling in a deep breath, he wasn't even aware that his eyes were brimming with tears. He walked over and scooped Eddie up, settling him on his back.

"What are you doing?" Dustin says, sniffing and wiping his eyes.

"Bringing him back to Hawkins. So his Uncle has a body to bury." 

Steve didn't leave any room for argument. He carried Eddie back through the gate. The next few days were a blur. Presenting Eddie's body to his uncle Wayne. Telling him that Eddie had been a hero, that he'd died to save this town. Helping Wayne organize a funeral and paying for everything.

Time began to pass and Steve did cry. He mourned Eddie's loss. He started closing in on himself, hiding himself. He stopped going to work and ended up losing his job. It wasn't that big of a deal, his parents still sent him money and took care of paying for the house. The house that was too empty.

He stopped seeing his friends, not even Robin could bring him out of his shell. The only time he ever saw them around was when he needed to go shopping and he'd cross paths with them, only offering a simple nod. Somehow, Wayne had figured out what Steve was feeling before Steve even figured it out.

Wayne gave him some of Eddie's things, old clothes, his cologne, his stash of drugs, all of his music, some of his jewelry and his acoustic guitar. Metal wasn't really Steve's scene, but it reminded him of Eddie. So he started listening to it. He'd wear Eddie's clothes, spritz them with Eddie's cologne, he'd started teaching himself how to play that acoustic guitar. 

He wore some of Eddie's rings, sometimes on his hands, sometimes on a chain. He would go to Eddie's grave every week and lay down fresh flowers, remove the vandalism and just sit, pretending he could feel Eddie's presence. His friends never stopped trying to pull him out of his shell, to interact with them.

He always turned them down. It took him an entire year to figure out why Eddie's death was hitting him so hard. First, he had a sexuality crisis. Analyzing every interaction he'd ever had with Eddie, how it had made him feel and think. He figured out he was bisexual.

Then he analyzed those moments again, in a different way. Now that he knew he was bisexual, what did those moments mean to him? And he came to the conclusion, that he'd fallen in love. Those feelings he held for Eddie were far more intense than he'd ever had for Nancy.

And all the bullshit about wanting Nancy back, that dream he'd told her about, it hadn't been real. He'd been subconciously deflecting, pretending that he and Eddie were nothing but platonic, even if Eddie was a little touchy and flirty. He'd pretended that's how Eddie was with everyone.

Coming to the conclusions that he did, Eddie's death hit him so much harder, even after a year. An intense wave of grief, like a cloud that loomed over him and he couldn't get rid of it. Not that he wanted to. He wanted to wallow in his grief. Eddie deserved to have someone grieve for him.

Then and there, he vowed that in the next life, in another life, he would find Eddie. No matter what it took, he would find Eddie again. Two years after Eddie's death, in 1989, Steve was sitting at Eddie's grave, laying down fresh flowers and removing the Burn in hell that had been painted onto the headstone.

Things were changing again. Steve could feel it, in his bones, in his soul. It was like he could feel that another fight was coming, that Vecna was coming back and he would be stronger and angrier. He could feel that some of Nancy's visions were going to come true. He could feel the change in the air.

And then it did happen. An army of monsters, pouring into Hawkins. People screaming and running, people dying. He hadn't spoken to or seen much of his friends in the last two years but he still loved them. Still cared about them. Still would die for them.

So he brought out his trusty nail bat and started fighting through the thick of monsters. His only goal was to keep his friends safe, keep them alive. Because they deserved to live. And Steve. Well Steve had a plan for himself. He was at peace with that plan.

He had a goal for that plan. It would be based on belief, luck and hope, but he had to try. Nothing and no one was going to stop him from going through with that plan. Not the kids, not Nancy. Not even Robin.

Chapters: 1/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Steve Harrington, Eddie Munson, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Vecna (Stranger Things), Wayne Munson Summary:

One of my readers suggested I turn this one shot into a short little fic and I loved the idea, so here it is

Updated version of chapter one, Also on AO3

Another Life

Chapter One

1986. The Upside Down. They'd taken down Vecna but the clock had chimed four times. Max had died. The ground had rumbled, the giant gates had opened into Hawkins. Somehow Max had come back and was in a coma, probably blind and had broken legs and broken arms. And Eddie. Steve had found Dustin sobbing and holding Eddie's limp body in his lap, the swarm of bats dead all around them.

That moment had mixed feelings for Steve. He wasn't sure what to think about those feelings. Intense grief that he didn't understand, he'd barely known the guy. He'd felt the world stop spinning, he'd lost all sight of everything except Eddie. He didn't cry, though he wanted to. Instead he let anger flow through his veins.

Yes he had only known Eddie for about a week, but he had been charming and sweet and had been awakening something unknown in Steve. Eddie couldn't hurt a fly, even if he wanted to. So why did Eddie have to die? What made him so unworthy of life? It wasn't fair.

Pulling in a deep breath, he wasn't even aware that his eyes were brimming with tears. He walked over and scooped Eddie up, settling him on his back.

"What are you doing?" Dustin says, sniffing and wiping his eyes.

"Bringing him back to Hawkins. So his Uncle has a body to bury."

Steve didn't leave any room for argument. He carried Eddie back through the gate. The next few days were a blur. Presenting Eddie's body to his uncle Wayne. Telling him that Eddie had been a hero, that he'd died to save this town. Helping Wayne organize a funeral and paying for everything.

Time began to pass and Steve did cry. He mourned Eddie's loss. He started closing in on himself, hiding himself. He stopped going to work and ended up losing his job. It wasn't that big of a deal, his parents still sent him money and took care of paying for the house. The house that was too empty.

He stopped seeing his friends, not even Robin could bring him out of his shell. The only time he ever saw them around was when he needed to go shopping and he'd cross paths with them, only offering a simple nod. Somehow, Wayne had figured out what Steve was feeling before Steve even figured it out.

Steve had been visiting Eddie's grave when Wayne had found him. Laying down a bouquet of lillie's, and sitting in the grass, lost in thought, tears rolling down his cheeks.

"You alright there son?"

Steve blinked and wiped at his eyes, turning his head to look up at Wayne.

"No. I don't know why it hurts so much. I barely knew him."

Steve's voice cracked a little as he spoke, a little hoarse from crying.

"You knew him. Even for a little bit. It's ok to grieve for someone you knew and lost."

Wayne seemed like a kind man, someone who understood.

"It feels like. There's a hole in my chest. One that I can't fill."

A look of understanding had crossed Wayne's features then and he took Steve to the old trailer. It was mostly destroyed by the opening gate but Eddie's room had remained untouched. There, Wayne gathered all of Eddie's cassette tapes, his jewelry, some of Eddie's clothes, his cologne and his stash of drugs and put them all in a box. And then he grabbed Eddie's acoustic guitar, the one that had the words 'This machine slays dragons' written on it in black ink.

"I want you to have these. I got no use for em. I got all the pictures I need. Maybe these will help you feel closer to Eddie. Like he's with you."

Steve started crying again because was giving him a chance to grieve and remember, maybe to try and help fill that hole in his heart. He'd thanked Wayne profusely then and the two had hugged before Steve went home.

Metal wasn't really Steve's scene, but it reminded him of Eddie. So he started listening to it. He'd wear Eddie's clothes, spritz them with Eddie's cologne, he'd started teaching himself how to play that acoustic guitar. Sometimes, when the pain was too much, he would get high on some of Eddie's drugs.

He wore some of Eddie's rings, sometimes on his hands, sometimes on a chain. He would go to Eddie's grave every week and lay down fresh flowers, remove the vandalism and just sit, pretending he could feel Eddie's presence. His friends never stopped trying to pull him out of his shell, to interact with them.

He always turned them down. It took him an entire year to figure out why Eddie's death was hitting him so hard. First, he had a sexuality crisis. Analyzing every interaction he'd ever had with Eddie, how it had made him feel and think. He figured out he was bisexual.

Then he analyzed those moments again, in a different way. Now that he knew he was bisexual, what did those moments mean to him? And he came to the conclusion, that he'd fallen in love. Those feelings he held for Eddie were far more intense than he'd ever had for Nancy.

And all the bullshit about wanting Nancy back, that dream he'd told her about, it hadn't been real. He'd been subconciously deflecting, pretending that he and Eddie were nothing but platonic, even if Eddie was a little touchy and flirty. He'd pretended that's how Eddie was with everyone.

Coming to the conclusions that he did, Eddie's death hit him so much harder, even after a year. An intense wave of grief, like a cloud that loomed over him and he couldn't get rid of it. Not that he wanted to. He wanted to wallow in his grief. Eddie deserved to have someone grieve for him.

Then and there, he vowed that in the next life, in another life, he would find Eddie. No matter what it took, he would find Eddie again. Two years after Eddie's death, in 1989, Steve was sitting at Eddie's grave, laying down fresh flowers and removing the 'Burn in hell' that had been painted onto the headstone.

Things were changing again. Steve could feel it, in his bones, in his soul. It was like he could feel that another fight was coming, that Vecna was coming back and he would be stronger and angrier. He could feel that some of Nancy's visions were going to come true. He could feel the change in the air.

And then it did happen. An army of monsters, pouring into Hawkins. People screaming and running, people dying. He hadn't spoken to or seen much of his friends in the last two years but he still loved them. Still cared about them. Still would die for them.

So he brought out his trusty nail bat and started fighting through the thick of monsters. His only goal was to keep his friends safe, keep them alive. Because they deserved to live. And Steve. Well Steve had a plan for himself. He was at peace with that plan.

He had a goal for that plan. It would be based on belief, luck and hope, but he had to try. Nothing and no one was going to stop him from going through with that plan. Not the kids, not Nancy. Not even Robin.

Chapters: 2/? Fandom: Stranger Things (TV 2016) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death Relationships: Steve Harrington/Eddie Munson Characters: Steve Harrington, Eddie Munson, Dustin Henderson, Nancy Wheeler, Robin Buckley, Vecna (Stranger Things), Wayne Munson Summary:

One of my readers suggested I turn this one shot into a short little fic and I loved the idea, so here it is

Another Life

Chapter Two

Steve was swinging his way through the thick of monsters alongside his group of friends. Every time one of them seemed to be in trouble, he was right there. And every time he seemed to be in trouble, someone was right there to save him. It was throwing off his plan and he was getting frustrated. He needed to find a way to put it into action without anyone interrupting.

The next time he was saved it was Nancy who'd saved him. Then she was hugging him, and Robin soon followed. Of course he hugged them back, he needed to. Then Nancy started talking, words that were making his head spin.

She'd broken up with Jonathon. Because she wanted him back. She wanted that dream Steve had talked about. It broke Steve's heart. He loved her as a friend but nothing more and he couldn't give her what she wanted.

"Nancy I can't."

"What?"

Nancy's voice came out soft, small. 

"I can't. That's not my dream anymore. I have a different one. And it isn't with you."

He could see the moment he'd broken her heart but he had to push through. He swung his nail bat into the skull of a demodog that was approaching and then he ordered Nancy and Robin to keep fighting, to keep the kids safe. To tell the kids that he loved them. Told Nancy and Robin he loved them too.

Then he was swinging his way into the center of the army, seeking out Vecna. And finally he did. Before Vecna could attack, Steve dropped his bat and raised his hands.

"I'm not here to fight you. Not this time."

Vecna's voice came out as a low gutteral growl.

"Then what do you want?"

"I want you to take it all away. I want you to end my suffering."

Vecna's head tilted, as if studying Steve.

"Please."

This time Steve's voice came out shaky and pleading. He was ready for it all to end, he was ready to go into the next life. He had nothing left here. Because Eddie wasn't here.

"I want to make your friends watch."

With a telepathic command to all of his monsters they all stopped attacking and separated, revealing all of Steve's friends.

"Steve!!!"

That yell was Nancy and Robin, both of them terrified to see him standing in front of Vecna.

"Your friend is asking me to end his suffering. He's begging me to kill him."

Everybody started protesting, screaming and yelling for Steve to fight back, that he was loved and he wasn't alone and that whatever he was going through they could help him. They were already crying, Nancy, Dustin and Robin most of all. And Steve shook his head, indicating that dying was what he wanted. That he was ready for it.

"I'm ready."

With Steve's confirmation Vecna rose him into the air. Slowly his bones began to snap. He could feel the pain, and he could hear his friends screams. First his arms. Then his legs. Then his fingers. Then his jaw. And then his eyes, blood trickling out of them before they were smashed in and his body dropped.

Steve wasn't sure what death would be like. He expected darkness and that came when his eyes were the last to go. He felt like he was floating and then. Nothing. Just an empty void. Steve Harrington was gone.

In 1990 a baby boy was born to two loving parents in New York. They named him Alex. Alex was an energetic soul and as he grew older he loved sports, he loved the outdoors, he loved 80's pop music. In 1995 Alex was old enough to start forming memories. It was then, at the age of five, that the first memory of his previous life came.

A memory of him as a little boy, going on a business trip with his parents. Little Steve Harrington holding hands with his mother and walking down a street in Italy. From there, the memories started coming as he grew. Memories of himself at each age, but something told him he was supposed to be searching for something. 

In 2000, when Alex was ten he discovered he was bisexual. That triggered his memory of discovering that about himself in his previous life. Which in turn, triggered the rest of his previous life's memories. And then he was crying himself to sleep in his room. Because he remembered Eddie.

And he remembered he'd made a vow. To find Eddie in this new life. He remembered asking Vecna to end his suffering, to take it all away. He'd killed himself so he could come into a new life and find Eddie. When he'd calmed from those onslought of memories, he told his parents that he was bisexual.

He wasn't sure what to expect because his previous parents had been distant and homophobic. But his new parents, Alex's parents were only loving and supportive. They accepted what Alex had told them, hugged him and told him they loved him and that it was ok to love whoever he wanted.

Relief flooded through Alex, but he no longer saw himself as Alex. He knew who he was. He was Steve Harrington. He didn't change his name, he knew that would be too much, couldn't tell his parents that he remembered his previous life.

He knew that once he found Eddie, they would be Steve and Eddie to each other and to the rest of the world, they would be Alex and whoever Eddie was in this new life. And for the next ten years Alex searched and searched, hoping desperately to find Eddie in this new life. To find the man that he was hopelessly in love with. To find the man that he'd died to come back to.