Chapter Text
Contrary to popular belief, Steve was not empty-headed or dim. He just has a different thought process than most people. He has difficulties pronouncing or knowing the definition of certain words because he simply does not think in words.
His thought process is composed of colors, feelings, taste, and images. He did not require words to string things together.
Therefore, he had a hard time learning to do so for the benefit of other people. He eventually decided the best way to fit in was to stand out like a sore thumb.
He started to trip himself over and seemed clumsy. He began to purposefully provide incorrect answers on his work sheets or quizzes, but never enough for him to completely fail, just enough to barely pass.
It was exhilarating to be able to persuade so many people into thinking that he lacked intelligence without even trying too hard. People would believe whatever you wanted them to believe, as long as it made them comfortable.
That was until he met Eli. He was a clumsy mess.
He tripped over his own feet; he was constantly dropping things and barely stood at five feet. His glasses slipped off his face, and his hair was a complete mess. He was a classic nerd.
However, he was the only one who was not completely fooled. He was observant; he saw things as they truly were instead of just what he wanted to see.
It both excited and threatened Steve. He no longer knew who he was without the mask, and Eli seemed determined to rip it off.