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The night air was cool and crisp, the gentle bite of fall creeping in as Steve Harrington stood on his front porch, staring at the decorations he’d spent hours putting up. Strings of soft orange lights flickered, fake cobwebs draped over every corner, and the carved pumpkins cast an eerie glow. The peaceful quiet of the evening felt almost too normal, considering everything that had happened just months ago.
In the distance, the laughter of trick-or-treaters echoed through the neighborhood, their costumes barely visible in the dim light as they ran from house to house. Steve watched them for a moment, the sight grounding him in a strange way. It was hard to believe that life in Hawkins could look so ordinary again, even if, deep down, he knew it wasn’t.
Hawkins had finally quieted down. After Vecna, after all the nightmares and the close calls, life had somehow slipped back into its usual rhythm. The monsters were gone, the town slowly healing from its scars. It was strange, almost surreal, how easily everyone went back to their lives, pretending like they hadn’t stared death in the face more than once.
But things weren’t quite the same, not for Steve, anyway. In the aftermath, the group had grown tighter, more inseparable. Everyone had clung to each other in the months that followed, the shared trauma binding them together in ways no one else could understand. And in the middle of all that, Steve found himself growing closer to Eddie Munson.
It had surprised Steve at first. Eddie had always been this larger-than-life presence, loud and unapologetically himself. He was everything Steve wasn’t: free-spirited, rebellious, and completely uninterested in what anyone thought of him. At first glance, they didn’t make sense as friends. But after everything they’d been through, fighting side by side, facing the unthinkable—they’d bonded.
Eddie had slipped into Steve’s life like it was the most natural thing in the world, and before Steve knew it, they were spending time together constantly. Their days were filled with long drives out of Hawkins, blasting Eddie’s favorite metal tracks, or lazy afternoons at Eddie’s trailer, where they’d sit for hours, talking about everything and nothing at all.
But it wasn’t just friendship. There was something more when it came to Eddie. Something Steve couldn’t quite name, but he felt it every time they were together. The way Eddie could light up a room with his smile, the way he’d laugh too loud at his own jokes, the way he’d drape himself over Steve like they’d known each other their whole lives.
Eddie was always touchy, so casual about it, like it meant nothing at all. He had this effortless habit of slinging his arm around Steve’s shoulders or leaning in close to whisper something, his breath warm against Steve’s ear. Every time, it sent a shiver down Steve’s spine and made his heart race in ways he hadn’t been ready for. Steve tried to brush it off, telling himself it was just Eddie being Eddie, but it was impossible to ignore when every touch made the ground feel like it shifted beneath him.
And Steve wasn’t ready to think about what that really meant.
What haunted him most, though, was the night Eddie had almost died. The memory of Eddie lying there, pale and bleeding, Steve pressing his hands over the wounds, helpless and desperate, was burned into his mind. But what Steve would never forget, what had lodged itself deep in his chest, was the moment Eddie had finally woken up in that dingy hospital room days later. Steve had been sitting by his side, exhausted and anxious, when Eddie’s eyes had fluttered open. For a second, there was silence—then Eddie had turned, looked right at Steve, and gave him the biggest brightest smile. Despite everything, despite almost dying, Eddie smiled like seeing Steve was the best thing in the world. And in that moment, something inside Steve shifted, something he couldn’t shake.
He didn’t want to think about it now, though. Not tonight.
Tonight was Halloween, and Steve was throwing a party. It was supposed to be fun. It was supposed to be simple, no deep feelings, no lingering memories, no complicated emotions. Just his friends, some drinks, and a lot of bad costumes. And most importantly, Steve planned to get a little drunk, let loose, and finally stop thinking about the way Eddie Munson made his heart race.
The doorbell rang, pulling Steve from his thoughts. He took a deep breath, smoothing down the front of his costume—a classic vampire, cape and all. He forced a smile onto his face as he went to open the door.
Robin stood on the other side, dressed in some kind of wizard costume, with Nancy right behind her, looking far too serious in a classic witch costume.
“Looking sharp, Count Harrington,” Robin teased, flicking at one of the fake fangs Steve had stuck in his mouth.
Steve rolled his eyes, stepping aside to let them in. “Yeah, yeah, laugh it up. You’re just jealous of the cape.”
“I mean, obviously,” Robin shot back with a grin. “Now, where’s the booze? This party better have drinks, or I’m leaving.”
Steve chuckled, watching as Robin made a beeline for the kitchen, her typical whirlwind energy leaving a trail of excitement in her wake. He turned back to the door just in time to see Jonathan and Argyle stroll in, their costumes a mismatched jumble of thrift-store finds that, somehow, suited them perfectly. But it wasn’t them that made Steve pause.
It was Eddie.
He walked in with his arms spread wide like he owned the room, a grin lighting up his face. Eddie looked every bit the rockstar he was dressed to be, his black leather jacket unzipped just enough to reveal the smooth, defined lines of his bare chest, the wild curls that framed his face, and the smudged eyeliner around his eyes added a raw, untamed edge.
Steve couldn’t help but stare as Eddie made his way towards him, his grin widening when their eyes met. The leather, the confidence—it was all so... Eddie.
“Looking good” Eddie said with a teasing lilt, closing the distance between them with ease. His arms wrapped around Steve in a quick, casual hug, but the way his hand brushed the small of Steve’s back wasn’t casual at all. It was light, but it sent a spark up Steve’s spine, making him freeze for just a second.
He could feel the warmth of Eddie’s body, the faint scent of leather and cologne surrounding him—and then, just as quickly, it was over. Eddie pulled back, flashing that same devilish grin before winking and slipping away to join the others like nothing had happened.
Steve stood frozen for a moment, still reeling. Seriously? He blinked, trying to shake the feeling off. He just walked in and you’re already losing it? Pull yourself together, Harrington. He let out a slow breath, willing himself to relax. With a small, exasperated shake of his head, a smile tugged at the corners of his lips despite himself. That was Eddie—always teasing, always knowing exactly how to get under his skin, always leaving him just a little off balance.
The party was starting to warm up, music softly playing in the background, and laughter filling the quiet corners of the house. The cozy atmosphere felt light, as if the weight of everything they’d been through was momentarily forgotten. Steve moved through the kitchen, pulling a tray of Halloween cookies from the oven, their sweet, spiced scent mingling with the warmth of the room. He set them down to cool and turned his attention to mixing drinks. They were spooky-themed concoctions he’d thrown together for the night, complete with dark rum, orange juice, and a splash of grenadine for a bloody effect.
As Steve poured the drinks into the skull-shaped glasses, Eddie sauntered into the kitchen, his grin as lazy as his steps, but there was a glint in his eyes that Steve had come to recognize. He leaned against the counter, casually scanning the drinks.
"Give me the strongest you've got," Eddie quipped, his lips curling into a smirk. "I can handle whatever you throw at me."
Steve grabbed the bottle of rum, arching a brow. “Strongest, huh? You sure about that? I’ve seen you tipsy. Can’t have you blurting out all your secrets now, can we?”
Eddie’s chuckle was deep, his eyes flashing with mischief as he stepped closer, deliberately narrowing the distance between them. “Steve, if I start spilling secrets, I promise you, they’re ones I’ve been dying to say.”
The challenge in his voice hung in the air as Steve poured a generous amount of rum into Eddie’s glass, his hand steady despite the sudden heat creeping up his neck.
“Is that right?” Steve’s voice came out smoother than he felt. His heart pounded in his chest, but his smirk stayed firmly in place. “What kind of secrets are we talking about?”
Eddie met his gaze without hesitation, his grin turning almost wicked, the teasing clear in his eyes. “Oh, the kind that’ll make you blush, Harrington.”
Steve rolled his eyes, refusing to give Eddie the reaction he was probably hoping for. He leaned back slightly, watching as Eddie raised the glass to his lips. A small stream of whiskey dribbled down Eddie’s chin, trailing its way down his chest.
Steve’s eyes followed the spill, eyes lingering for just a moment. “Careful, Munson. You’re making a mess,” Steve teased, his voice slightly hoarse.
Eddie gave a lazy shrug, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, still completely unaware of Steve’s wandering gaze.
Before Steve could say more, Robin’s voice cut through the air, loud and urgent, “Hey! We’re starting a game soon in the living room. Let’s go!” she shouted, her voice pulling them both out of the moment.
Steve straightened, glancing at Eddie, who just shrugged with a smile. “Can’t let them have all the fun without us,” Eddie said, nudging Steve with his elbow before heading off toward the living room.
Steve exhaled, the buzz from the drinks making everything feel lighter, but the tension between them still hung in the air. Dropping onto the couch, he tried to focus on the conversation, but his mind kept replaying the way the rum had tauntingly dripped down Eddie’s chest.
It was ridiculous. This was Eddie, one of his best friends. Steve shouldn’t be thinking about him like that. But the image lingered, tugging at him, leaving him unsettled and questioning why something so small had stirred feelings he didn’t know how to handle.
Eddie, completely unaware of Steve’s internal turmoil, was sprawled out on the opposite couch, passionately explaining some intricate D&D plot to Jonathan, his arms flailing with excited energy. Jonathan, meanwhile, looked utterly lost, nodding along with a confused smile as he tried to keep up.
On the floor, Robin sat cross-legged, gesturing wildly as she talked to Nancy, a mischievous grin on her face. “Okay, but next year, we go all out, haunted house theme. I’m talking fog machines, creepy music, and full-on jump scares,” she said, her excitement bubbling over as she passed the blunt.
Nancy took a slow drag, laughing as she adjusted her witch hat. “You’re really on a mission, aren’t you?” she replied with a grin, clearly amused by Robin’s enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, Argyle was leaned back comfortably, staring off into space, before lazily passing the blunt over to Eddie. The party felt alive yet laid-back, the haze from the weed mixing with the warmth of the room, and the buzz of excitement hanging in the air.
“Alright, alright!” Robin grinned, holding up her drink. “Let’s keep this going. No one’s escaping Kiss, Marry, Kill tonight.”
Steve leaned back into the cushions, taking another swig from his drink as he exchanged a look with Eddie, who raised an eyebrow. Robin passed the blunt to Steve with a grin.
He took a hit, feeling the warmth of the alcohol and smoke settle into his body, before handing it over to Eddie. Eddie took a slow drag, then Robin’s voice rang out again. “Okay, Eddie, you’re up first.”
Eddie blinked, as if coming back from his own thoughts. “Wait, up first for what?”
Steve laughed, feeling the effects of the alcohol making him bolder. “Kiss, Marry, Kill, man. You’re not slipping out of this one.”
Eddie grinned, leaning back like he was about to put on a show, his fingers tapping against his leg. “Right, right. Big decisions.”
Steve chuckled. “Quit stalling.”
“Alright, alright,” Eddie drawled, dragging out the words with a dramatic sigh. “First off, I’d kill… Scott Reynolds.”
The group exchanged confused looks before Steve raised an eyebrow. “Who the hell is Scott Reynolds?”
Eddie leaned forward, a fire in his eyes. “Scott Reynolds. The guy who stole my original Metallica Kill ‘Em All album back in ’83. Limited edition. Mint condition. He said he was borrowing it for a weekend. Haven’t seen him…or the record…since.”
The room erupted in laughter, Robin nearly spilling her drink. “You’re still mad about a record from years ago?”
Eddie threw his hands up, completely serious. “Mad? I’m haunted by it, Robin! Do you know what it feels like to lose a first press Metallica album? That was my baby!”
Steve shook his head, chuckling. “Of course, that’s the grudge you’ve been holding.”
Eddie grinned, shrugging. “Hey, some betrayals are unforgettable. Every time I hear ‘Seek & Destroy,’ I feel the pain all over again.”
Robin grinned, wiping a tear from her eye. “Man, you’re relentless.”
The room settled for a moment, the lingering laughter dying down, when Eddie’s grin stretched even wider, eyes gleaming with mischief. “Alright, alright,” he said, raising a hand for attention. “But now, on to the important stuff.” He paused, his voice lowering theatrically. “Who am I kissing?” He let the question hang in the air, leaning back dramatically as if preparing for a grand reveal. The room waited in playful anticipation as Eddie drew out the moment, milking it for all it was worth. Then, with a cheeky smirk and a glint in his eye, he pointed confidently. “That’s easy. Steve.”
The room fell into silence. Steve’s heart skipped a beat, and he felt the weight of everyone’s eyes on him.
Jonathan raised his eyebrows, glancing between the two. “Wait, what?”
Steve, caught off guard, could feel the heat rising in his face. He forced a laugh. “Me?”
Eddie’s smirk grew. “What? You surprised? Look at you, Harrington. You’re pulling off that vampire thing a little too well. I’m into it.”
Robin shook her head, laughing. “Of course you are, Munson.”
Nancy chuckled, leaning toward Jonathan. “Guess we know Eddie’s type now.”
Steve cleared his throat, trying to play it cool despite the way his pulse quickened. “Alright, enough about me. Who’s getting the ring?”
Eddie sighed dramatically. “Easy. Principal Higgins.”
Robin groaned, throwing her hands up. “You’ve gotta be kidding me.”
Eddie shrugged, leaning back with a grin. “Hey, stability, right? The guy’s got tenure, probably a decent pension. What more could you want?”
Laughter filled the room again, but Steve’s mind was stuck on Eddie’s earlier words, making it impossible to focus. The ease with which Eddie had said it, like it was no big deal, left Steve’s chest tight.
As the game progressed, the room buzzed with laughter and playful teasing as everyone took turns answering. When Robin leaned back with a casual smile and said, “I would kiss Vickie,” Steve noticed the brief flicker of jealousy in Nancy’s eyes as she glanced toward Robin. It was subtle, but unmistakable, adding to the quiet tension already simmering beneath the surface.
Eddie was on the other side of the room, laughing loudly at everyone’s replies, effortlessly enjoying the moment. Steve, however, couldn’t take the weight of his thoughts anymore. With a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes, he stood up, stretching slightly before muttering, “Gonna grab another drink,” more to himself than anyone else.
As he popped the cap off a fresh beer, he heard footsteps behind him. Of course, Robin wasn’t going to let him slip away unnoticed.
“You’re really bad at hiding, you know that?” Robin leaned against the counter, arms crossed.
“You’re practically screaming, ‘I’m not fine,’ back there.”
Steve sighed, taking a swig of the beer. “I’m fine. It’s just—”
“Eddie?” Robin cut him off with a knowing smirk. “Yeah, no kidding. You’ve been a deer in the headlights ever since he said he wants to kiss you.”
Steve choked on his drink, glaring at her as he wiped his mouth. “Could you not say it like that?”
Robin grinned. “What? It’s what he said. And it’s clearly got you spiraling.”
Steve leaned heavily against the counter. “It’s not just tonight. It’s been building, you know? The looks, the stupid flirty comments. I just didn’t think… I didn’t think it’d mess me up this much.”
Robin’s smirk softened as she studied Steve. “So, you’re into him, then? Or are you freaking out because Eddie Munson said he’d make out with you?”
Steve paused mid-sip, “What? No, I’m not freaking out,” he muttered, though the heat rising in his face betrayed him.
Robin raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “Right… because most people totally bolt to the kitchen for a drink after someone says they’d kiss them.”
Steve rolled his eyes, trying to shake off the awkwardness. “It’s not that big a deal, Rob.”
Robin shrugged, grinning. “If you say so. But hey, for what it’s worth, I don’t think Eddie was joking. You two have been dancing around it for months, and now you can’t avoid it.”
Steve groaned, running a hand through his hair. “It’s not like that.”
Robin gave him a knowing look, her smirk softening into something more sympathetic. “Oh, it’s exactly like that. The looks, the stupid banter, the tension every time you're in the same room? You’re not fooling anyone, Steve.”
He sighed, leaning against the counter. “It’s just… complicated.”
Robin shook her head with a laugh. “The only thing complicated here is you pretending you don’t want him. Eddie’s been throwing out signals left and right, and now that it’s out there, you can’t keep dodging it.”
Steve hesitated, the truth of it settling in. “Maybe,” he admitted quietly.
Before Robin could respond, the kitchen door swung open, and in stumbled Eddie, clearly far drunker than when Steve had left him.
“There’s my boy!” Eddie yelled, stumbling slightly as he draped himself over Steve’s shoulders, nearly knocking the beer from his hand. “I’ve been looking for you!”
Steve froze, pulse spiking. “Uh, hey Eddie”
Robin, ever the instigator, smiled as her eyes glinted with mischief. “I’ll leave you two lovebirds to it,” she teased, tossing Steve a wink before slipping out of the kitchen.
“Wait, Robin” Steve called after her, but his voice faltered. She was already gone, and now it was just him and Eddie, who leaned heavily against him, warm and familiar. But tonight, something about that closeness felt different, like a weight they hadn’t fully acknowledged was pressing between them.
Eddie let out a long, exaggerated groan, resting his head against Steve’s shoulder as if it were second nature. “You’ve gotta save me, Harrington. I’m a total disaster,” Eddie muttered, his words slurred a bit, but there was a vulnerable edge to them, something raw and unspoken underneath.
Steve let out a nervous laugh, feeling the heat rise in his cheeks as Eddie leaned in, his weight a little too close, a little too comfortable. “Yeah, you’re definitely a disaster,” Steve mumbled, trying to steer Eddie toward the counter. “Let’s get you some water before you pass out.”
Eddie leaned into him more, his head falling against Steve’s shoulder again, as if it was second nature. “Why’re you always saving me, huh?” he asked, voice rough but sincere, the words tumbling out like they’d been stuck for a while. “You’re always there… like some kind of hero.”
Steve’s heart skipped a beat. He swallowed hard, shifting slightly but still not letting go. He didn’t want to. “Eddie, you’re drunk. I’m just getting you some water, that’s all,” Steve teased, trying to keep it light.
Eddie shook his head lazily, though the movement made him wobble again. Steve held him tighter. “No, I mean it,” Eddie insisted, softer now, more real. “You’re always there, y’know? Like that night with the bats. You didn’t leave me. You stayed.”
Steve’s muscles tensed at the memory—Eddie bleeding out, gasping for breath, and Steve refusing to let go, refusing to lose him. “I wasn’t gonna leave you to die, Eddie,” he said quietly, his voice thick with the weight of that night.
Eddie grinned, his expression tired, eyes half-lidded with a mix of exhaustion and something deeper, something Steve couldn’t quite place. Their faces were close, and Eddie’s gaze lingered on Steve’s for a beat longer than usual. “That’s why you’re the best, Harrington. And… that’s why I—”
He hesitated, blinking as though trying to gather his thoughts. Steve could feel his pulse quicken, every beat echoing in his ears. The room seemed to grow smaller, the air heavier, as Eddie's words hung in the space between them.
“That’s why I’m always messing with you,” Eddie finally muttered, his voice low and a little rough, like it hurt to say. His grin faltered, replaced by something more vulnerable. “’Cause I, uh… kinda like you.”
Steve’s breath hitched, his entire body going still. “What?” he whispered, the word slipping out before he could stop it. His heart pounded in his chest, heat rushing to his face. He didn’t dare move, afraid the slightest shift would break whatever fragile thing was forming between them.
Eddie’s gaze locked onto his, and for a split second, it felt like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them. Steve could hear Eddie’s uneven breathing, the faint hum of the party somewhere in the background, but it all seemed distant, muffled. All that mattered was the unspoken tension tightening between them, the weight of Eddie’s words sinking in.
But then, just as Steve’s mind began to reel with the implications, Argyle’s voice rang out from the next room. “Eddie, bro! You’re missing out, man!”
The moment shattered. Eddie straightened up slightly, the closeness between them dissipating as if it had never been there at all.
With a lazy grin, Eddie gave Steve a half-hearted shrug before turning toward the doorway. “Catch you later, Harrington,” he mumbled, running in the direction of Argyle’s voice.
Steve stood frozen, his chest tight, the weight of Eddie’s unfinished confession pressing down on him. A storm of questions swirled in his mind, but one thought cut through the chaos.
He likes me?
The words clung to him, impossible to shake. He didn’t know what it truly meant, but he knew one thing for sure: he couldn’t leave things unresolved. Not after everything that had been building between them for months
He wasn’t ready to go back into the living room yet. The noise of the party, the laughter, the music—all of it felt distant, like a world he wasn’t quite prepared to step back into. Instead, Steve lingered in the kitchen, catching his reflection in the small mirror above the sink, noticing the fake vampire fangs still wedged awkwardly in his mouth. With a sigh, he pulled them out, tossing them onto the counter with a clatter. He stared at himself for a moment, his features slightly flushed from the alcohol, his hair a little more disheveled than usual. He ran a hand through it, messing with it absentmindedly.
He let out a slow breath, leaning against the sink, staring at the fake fangs like they could somehow offer him an answer. But the quiet of the kitchen couldn’t last forever.
Finally, he headed back into the living room. The party was still in full swing, with the opening notes of Halloween playing in the background, Michael Myers stalking across the screen. Argyle was sprawled out on the couch, puffing on a joint, with Jonathan beside him, chuckling at something. Eddie had rejoined them, now lounging on the edge of the couch, a relaxed grin on his face, as if nothing had happened in the kitchen earlier.
Steve tugged at the edges of his vampire cape, the deep red fabric brushing against his knees as he crossed the room.
Eddie’s voice broke through the chatter, his teasing tone impossible to miss. “Ah, Count Harrington, back from the dead,” he called out, taking a swig of punch in his hand, that familiar mischievous glint in his eyes. He pointed to Steve’s now fangless mouth. “What happened to your fangs? I was kinda hoping for a bite.”
Steve paused, caught off guard but quickly recovering, raising an eyebrow at Eddie. “Oh, you wish, Munson” he shot back, trying to sound casual.
Eddie's grin widened, his eyes following Steve with a spark of amusement, and though he seemed a bit more sober, he was clearly enjoying himself as he leaned back on the couch. "Maybe I do," he teased, his playful tone still lingering in the air.
Steve let out a nervous laugh, his pulse quickening as he sat beside Eddie. The noise of the party had faded, replaced by the soft hum of the movie. Moonlight filtered through the window, casting a glow over Eddie’s bare chest and the intricate lines of his tattoos. He’d been avoiding this closeness all night, but now, sitting so close, it hit him hard.
He liked Eddie.
Really liked him.
The realization felt almost too big to hold in, It wasn’t just about wanting Eddie physically—he wanted everything with him. He wanted to be the one Eddie could count on, to be there for him through every moment, no matter how small. He wanted to listen to Eddie’s stupid metal music, even if he pretended to hate it. He wanted to learn D&D, to sit through hours of campaigns just to see Eddie light up as he played. He wanted to hold him through his nightmares, to be the one Eddie turned to when the world got dark.
He wanted it all. A thousand more Halloweens together, with matching couples costumes that he would pretend to hate but secretly love. Steve wanted a life where Eddie was by his side for every moment, big and small, because nothing had ever felt so right.
The tension between them wasn’t just in his head. It had been there for months, in every teasing comment, every lingering look. It wasn’t just friendship anymore, and Steve couldn’t pretend it was.
Eddie’s eyes flicked to Steve, an easy smile still on his face, but there was something more beneath it. Steve could feel it now, something had changed, and there was no going back.
After a few minutes of watching the movie, Steve felt Eddie shift beside him. Without a word, Eddie leaned his head against Steve’s shoulder, the warmth of the contact sending a soft jolt through Steve’s body. He tensed at first, unsure of how to react, but didn’t move. His heart pounded in his chest, louder than the eerie hum of the movie’s soundtrack.
Steve swallowed hard, trying to focus on the movie, but his mind was racing. It wasn’t just the closeness, it was the unspoken weight of everything between them. Then, almost hesitantly, Steve felt Eddie’s fingers lightly tracing small circles on his leg. It was barely a touch, but it was enough.
Eddie’s movements were slow and uncertain, like he wasn’t sure if he should continue—but he didn’t stop. The delicate brush of Eddie’s fingers against Steve’s thigh sent a rush of heat through him. Steve’s thoughts spun wildly, and he took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. Okay, don’t be an idiot, he told himself.
This was his chance.
The lights were dim, everyone else distracted by the movie. It was just him and Eddie. He could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on him, urging him to move. To just… hold Eddie’s hand, show him he wanted this too.
Steve took a shaky breath, heart pounding as he slowly inched his hand toward Eddie’s, nerves buzzing with every inch closer. His fingers hovered, just about to close the gap when—
“Yo! Anyone want more candy apples?” Argyle’s voice boomed through the room.
Steve froze, his hand jerking back immediately as he shot a side-eye at Argyle, trying to suppress his frustration. Eddie stirred beside him, lifting his head slightly, oblivious to what had almost happened. Steve sighed, feeling like the moment had slipped through his fingers.
“Steve! You didn’t get a chance earlier. Wanna try candy apple roulette?” Argyle grinned, holding up the tray.
Steve raised an eyebrow “Candy apple roulette?”
Eddie grinned, eyes now clearer, watching Steve closely. “Yeah, man. One of those apples is loaded with hot sauce. You’ll know it when you get it.”
Robin, seated on the floor beside Nancy, chimed in with a playful smirk. “Trust me, Jonathan almost died from it earlier.”
Jonathan groaned dramatically, rubbing his stomach. “I’m still recovering.”
Steve chuckled, his nerves easing as he grabbed a candy apple from the tray. “Alright, here goes nothing.”
The room fell silent, everyone leaning in with anticipation as Steve took a dramatic pause. Robin rolled her eyes. “Oh, come on, Steve. Just eat it.”
With a grin, Steve took a bite. The crunch echoed through the room as the sweet caramel filled his mouth. He waited for the heat, but after a few seconds, he grinned and gave a thumbs-up. “Safe!”
The group groaned in disappointment. Eddie leaned back, chuckling softly, his gaze still on Steve.
“You got lucky, Harrington. But I’ve got a feeling your luck’s gonna run out.” Steve shot him a mock glare. “Is that a challenge?”
Robin’s grin turned devilish, her eyes glinting with excitement. “Alright, let’s raise the stakes. Whoever gets the spicy apple has to head down to Hawkins’ graveyard before midnight… and spend 30 minutes by the haunted bridge.”
The room fell silent, the flickering light from the TV casting eerie shadows across the walls. Everyone knew the haunted bridge in the old cemetery. It was the site of local legends, ghost sightings, strange sounds, and the story of a woman in white who wandered the bridge searching for something, or someone. Even people who weren’t superstitious steered clear of it, especially on Halloween.
Eddie’s eyes gleamed with excitement. “Now that’s a dare,” he said, sitting up straight. He shot a glance at Steve, his grin widening. “I’ll volunteer… but if I get the spicy apple, Steve’s coming with me. No way I’m doing this alone.”
Steve blinked, feeling the knot in his stomach tighten. “Wait, why am I getting dragged into this?”
Robin leaned back, a smirk on her face. “Because you dodged the last round. And besides, you’ve faced Vecna and the Upside Down. What’s a haunted bridge compared to that?”
Steve sighed, glancing at the tray of apples Argyle was holding up like some kind of twisted prize. Robin had a point—nothing should scare him after all they’d been through. But the haunted bridge? The stories about that place always gave him the creeps, even as a kid. “Fine,” he muttered. “But if Eddie bails, I’m never letting him forget it.”
Eddie smirked, nudging Steve playfully. “Trust me, Harrington, you’ll be the one chickening out. Let’s get on with it.”
Robin grinned and offered the tray to Eddie. “Alright, Munson. Time to decide your fate.”
Everyone watched with bated breath as Eddie grabbed an apple and took a bite. The crunch echoed in the room, and for a moment, Eddie’s face remained neutral until his eyes suddenly widened. He coughed, spluttering as the heat hit him hard.
“Yep,” Eddie rasped, wiping his mouth and laughing despite the burning in his throat. “Looks like we’re headed to the haunted bridge.”
Steve groaned, his stomach flipping as he realized the dare was real now.
Eddie shot him a playful glance. “You ready, Stevie? 30 minutes by the bridge. Easy, right?”
Steve forced a smile, even though his nerves were buzzing. “Let’s just get it over with.”
The walk to the cemetery was unnervingly quiet, the only sound the crunch of fallen leaves under their feet. As they left the warmth and noise of the house behind, the town seemed to fall into an eerie stillness. Halloween decorations, now illuminated by the dim glow of distant streetlights, looked less playful and more sinister. With each step toward the graveyard, Steve’s mind whirled, not so much with fear of the bridge ahead, but with everything left unsaid between him and Eddie.
The rusted gate of the cemetery loomed in front of them, casting long, twisted shadows under the moonlight. The haunted bridge lay deeper inside, hidden beyond the tangle of old trees and gravestones. The stories Steve had heard growing up, like the woman in white, echoed in his mind.
These were the same woods they’d once sprinted through, adrenaline surging as they ran from Demogorgons, hearts pounding in sync with their footsteps. The same woods where fear and survival intertwined, where they’d fought to stay alive. The same woods where Steve had walked alongside Eddie, back when all he knew of him was the loud-mouthed “freak” from school with wild hair and a rebellious streak that made Steve roll his eyes.
And now, here they were again
How things had changed since then.
Eddie pushed open the gate with a loud creak, amusement flickering in his eyes as he held it open for Steve. “Alright, Steve, ready to see some ghosts?”
Steve smirked, trying to hide his nerves. “Only if you promise to hold my hand.”
Eddie chuckled, shaking his head as he stepped in beside Steve. “Careful, Harrington, I just might.”
As they walked further in, Steve glanced at Eddie, whose grin had faded into a more thoughtful expression. They both knew this wasn’t just about the dare. The silence between them, filled with all the things they hadn’t said, grew louder with each step.
When they finally reached the bridge, it was as eerie as Steve had imagined. The old stone arches were draped in shadow, and the water below was still and dark, like a black mirror reflecting the night. Steve shivered, though it wasn’t just the cold that sent a chill through him.
In the distance, you could hear the faint screams of children finishing their last rounds of trick-or-treating, the sound carrying on the wind and mixing with the rustle of the trees. It was a haunting reminder that the rest of the town was out there, enjoying the playful side of Halloween, while he and Eddie stood on the edge of something darker.
Steve glanced at Eddie, who stood at the edge of the bridge, leaning against the railing with a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. The eerie atmosphere wasn’t lost on either of them. “Well,” Eddie said, his voice low, and dramatic “welcome to the haunted bridge.”
Steve let out a nervous laugh looking around, but the tension between them, and the weight of the dare, pressed down heavier than ever. “Yeah… it’s as creepy as advertised.”
Eddie let out a breath, his eyes scanning the darkness. “You know,” he said, his voice softer than usual, “30 minutes is gonna feel like forever out here.”
Steve nodded, trying to push the unease aside. “Yeah, no kidding.”
Eddie glanced over at him, and for the first time that night, his grin softened into something almost shy. “How about we distract ourselves? Play a game or something.”
Steve raised an eyebrow. “A game? Seriously?”
“Yeah, seriously.” Eddie’s grin returned, though there was a playful edge to it now. “How about 20 questions? Might as well do something. Unless you’d rather just stare into the creepy woods and listen for footsteps.”
Steve chuckled, sliding his hands into his pockets. "Alright, fine. But make it good. None of that ‘what’s your favorite color’ junk."
Eddie’s grin widened, his gaze lingering a little longer. "Oh, trust me, I’ve got a few questions in mind that might just surprise you."
Steve tilted his head, intrigued. “Oh yeah? Like what?”
Eddie’s eyes sparkled with mischief as he glanced at Steve. “You’ll just have to wait and see, Harrington. But I promise it’s not about your hair routine.”
Steve laughed, shaking his head. “You and my hair, man. I swear it’s like your favorite topic.”
“Hey, it’s iconic,” Eddie teased, bumping Steve’s shoulder. “Can’t help that I’m a fan.”
They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the cool night air settling around them.
"Alright, I'll start," Steve said, his tone light, breaking the stillness with an easy smile.
Eddie turned to Steve, a playful glint in his eyes as he leaned further against the bridge’s railing.
“Alright, hit me with your best shot, Harrington.”
Steve thought for a moment, trying to keep the mood light despite the growing tension between them.
“What’s the most embarrassing song you have on one of your tapes?”
Eddie snorted, clearly entertained by the question. “Oh, easy. ABBA. ‘Dancing Queen,’ baby.”
Steve blinked in surprise. “You? The guy who swears by Black Sabbath and Metallica?”
"Yeah, well," Eddie shrugged, a hint of shyness in his eyes, "even a metalhead needs to let loose sometimes."
Steve laughed, the sound a little lighter this time, the weight between them easing just a bit. “Alright, I’ll give you that. ABBA’s not bad.”
“Not bad?” Eddie gasped dramatically, clutching his chest. “Harrington, that’s blasphemy. ABBA’s a gift to this Earth.”
Steve shook his head, grinning. “Okay, your turn.”
Eddie’s grin faded a little, his expression softening. He took a step closer, “Okay, here’s one for you,” he said, his tone more serious now. “What’s something that scares you… but you’d never admit to anyone else?”
Steve blinked, the question hitting deeper than he expected. “That’s... heavier than I thought you’d go.”
Eddie didn’t say anything, just watched him quietly, his gaze steady, waiting for Steve to answer.
Steve swallowed, looking away for a moment before turning back to Eddie. “Alright, if we’re doing this… I guess I’d say being alone. Like, really alone.” His voice dropped, quieter now. “It sounds dumb, but… after everything, sometimes it feels like everyone’s moving on and I’m just stuck. The idea of being left behind? That freaks me out.”
Eddie's expression grew even gentler as he stepped forward, his gaze steady. "That’s not dumb at all," he said quietly, his voice sincere. "I understand. I really do."
Steve glanced down at the small space between them, close but not touching. A knot tightened in his chest, emotions swirling. "Yeah?" His voice was soft, almost vulnerable, like he needed to hear whatever Eddie would say next.
Eddie nodded, his eyes searching Steve’s. “Yeah. People leave,” he said quietly, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken pain. “It’s hard to trust that someone will actually stick around." He paused, swallowing hard, as if the admission itself cost him something. "But... I think you’ve got more people in your corner than you realize. And maybe... maybe I’m one of them.” His voice softened on the last words, as though he was offering more than just reassurance.
For a moment, everything else seemed to fade away—the world around them, the night, all of it—as they stood close, the air charged with something unspoken. Their breaths forming small puffs of vapor, but the warmth between them was undeniable. Steve felt his pulse quicken, the tension thick and almost tangible, as if the weight of their conversation held its own gravity.
Steve’s focus was entirely on Eddie—the way the moonlight softened his features, and how his usual bravado had melted away, leaving behind a raw vulnerability Steve had rarely seen. Eddie shifted slightly, his eyes never leaving Steve’s, and in that quiet, intimate space, Steve took a deep breath.
“Yeah,” Steve murmured, his voice softer now, more sure. “Maybe you’re right. I guess I don’t always see it... but hearing you say that, it makes it feel real. Like maybe I’m not as alone as I thought.” The weight of the moment pressed down on him, but instead of feeling overwhelmed, Steve found comfort in Eddie’s words, offering a small, genuine smile in return.
“Alright,” Steve began, his voice soft, almost a whisper. He took a step closer, their breaths mingling in the cool air. “My turn.”
Eddie raised an eyebrow, a faint, teasing smile playing on his lips, though his eyes remained serious, filled with curiosity. “Alright, hit me.”
Steve hesitated for a moment, feeling the pressure of their shared vulnerability. He could see Eddie’s hands fidgeting slightly, his confidence faltering, though he tried to mask it. Steve swallowed and asked, “What’s one thing you’ve always wanted to do but never had the chance to?”
Eddie blinked, surprised by the question. His eyes flickered away from Steve, staring out into the darkness beyond the bridge. The silence stretched between them, and Steve could feel the weight of whatever Eddie was about to say. When Eddie spoke again, his voice was quieter, more thoughtful.
“I guess...” Eddie started, his voice quieter now, his eyes flickering with a mix of hesitation and something deeper. “I’ve always wanted to know what it’s like to trust someone completely. To let go of all the fear.” He paused, glancing back at Steve. “I mean, I’ve got friends, but there’s always this voice in the back of my mind... this fear of being let down, of being betrayed. It’s like I’m always waiting for the other shoe to drop.” He swallowed, his next words softer, almost aching. “I just want to believe that someone would stay, no matter what.”
Steve’s chest tightened at Eddie’s confession. He could see the flicker of fear in Eddie’s eyes, the deep vulnerability that he was laying bare in front of him. Without thinking, Steve reached out, his hand brushing gently against Eddie’s. It was a small touch, but it sent a jolt through both of them, the closeness between them suddenly undeniable.
“I get that,” Steve said softly, his voice filled with understanding. “Trust is hard. It’s scary to open up, especially when you’re afraid of being hurt.” He paused, letting the weight of his words settle between them. “But...”
Steve took a breath, his gaze steady on Eddie’s. “I guess... I guess I want to be that person who stays. No matter what. Even when it’s hard.”
Eddie’s eyes widened slightly, and he looked down at their hands, still lightly touching. The silence that followed was thick with unspoken emotions, each of them feeling the shift in their connection.
Steve’s thumb brushed lightly over Eddie’s knuckles, a gesture of reassurance. “You don’t have to face that fear alone. I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere.”
Eddie looked back up, his expression a mixture of relief and gratitude. “Thank you,” he said softly, the words carrying more weight than a simple thank you usually would.
Steve gave a small, encouraging smile. Feeling his heart pound in his chest, the weight of what he needed to say growing heavier. His fingers tightened slightly around Eddie’s hand, grounding them both in the moment.
"Eddie," Steve began, his voice quieter now, more uncertain. The question lingered on his lips, heavy with fear and hope. "What you said back at the house… was it true?" His voice wavered, as if asking the question was almost as terrifying as hearing the answer.
Eddie stiffened slightly, his body going rigid beside Steve’s. He quickly pulled his hand back, shoving it into his pocket as he looked away. Steve watched as Eddie’s bravado cracked, his usual easy smirk faltering under the question.
“What do you mean?” Eddie asked, though Steve could hear the edge of nerves in his voice.
“You know what I mean,” Steve said, stepping closer, his voice steady but soft. “When you said... that you liked me.”
Eddie’s eyes darted back to Steve for a split second, his expression one of mild panic before he quickly looked away again, staring hard at the water beneath the bridge. He laughed awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck, clearly flustered. “I was kinda hoping you forgot I said that in the kitchen,” he muttered, eyes flicking to the side as if avoiding Steve’s gaze might somehow lessen the weight of his confession.
Steve blinked, feeling the sting of uncertainty clawing at him. “So... you didn’t mean it?”
“No.. no.. I… meant it,” Eddie said quickly, still not meeting Steve’s eyes. “I just—I didn’t want you to find out that way. And I didn’t want to make things weird between us. Look, you don’t have to say anything, okay? I know you probably don’t—”
“Eddie—” Steve started, but Eddie barreled on, his hands now fidgeting as he rambled.
I’m sorry,” Eddie blurted out, his voice unsteady as the words rushed out. “It’s just… I kept thinking maybe you liked me, but I couldn’t be sure. Some days, it felt like you did, like there was something more, but then I’d second-guess it. I’d tell myself I was just seeing what I wanted to see, that I was making it all up in my head. And I didn’t know how to ask, or even if I should. I didn’t want to ruin what we had and-.”
“Eddie—” Steve started, but Eddie kept going, his hands now fidgeting as he rambled.
“—and I hate that I said something back in the kitchen, because I didn’t mean to, not like that, not when I didn’t know how you felt. And now I’m standing here, probably ruining everything because of course you wouldn’t feel the same, and I should’ve just kept my mouth shut, but—”
“Eddie,” Steve interrupted, his voice firm but still gentle. He stepped in closer, closing the gap between them until Eddie had no choice but to look at him. Their faces were now inches apart, the soft moonlight casting a silvery glow on Eddie’s flushed, anxious face.
Eddie’s breath hitched, his eyes wide and filled with uncertainty as he stumbled over his next words. “Now I’m making it weird, right? I —”
“Eddie, stop,” Steve cut in, a playful grin breaking through as he gently placed a hand on Eddie’s arm, his voice filled with warmth. “Stop talking. stop overthinking.” He let out a soft laugh. “I like you too, okay? I really like you.”
Eddie froze, his wide eyes searching Steve’s face for any sign of doubt or teasing, but all he found was the soft, genuine look in Steve’s eyes, along with that familiar smile, the one that always put him at ease.
“You… wait,” Eddie stammered, blinking as if he hadn’t heard him right. “You like me too?”
Steve laughed again, shaking his head fondly. “Yes, Eddie, I like you too,” he said, his voice light but sincere.
Eddie’s face was a mix of confusion, disbelief, and cautious hope as he finally allowed the words to sink in. “So… you’re not just saying that to, like, make me feel better?”
Steve rolled his eyes playfully and, with a soft chuckle, he reached out to gently tilt Eddie’s chin up again, forcing Eddie to look directly at him. “Eddie,” he said, his voice full of affection, “I’m not messing with you. I’ve had feelings for you for a while now, but I couldn’t admit it to myself until recently. I wasn’t sure how to face it or even if I should…But after you said what you did back in the kitchen, I figured it was time to stop being so scared and just go for it.”
Eddie blinked, still processing, before a slow, crooked grin spread across his face. “Oh. Well, that’s… that’s really good to hear,” he muttered, a little dazed, his heart thumping wildly in his chest. “Because, uh, yeah, I kinda like you a lot.”
Steve smiled, his thumb brushing softly against Eddie’s jaw, his touch gentle and reassuring. “Good,” he said, his voice low and warm.
“But speaking of things you said... are you gonna tell me if you meant it during Kiss, Marry, Kill? You know, when you said you’d kiss me?”
Eddie’s eyes widened, but he quickly regained his cool, leaning in slightly, a sly grin curling at the corners of his lips. His voice was low, teasing. “And what if I did?”
Steve raised an eyebrow, taking a deliberate step closer. His eyes flicked to Eddie’s lips, lingering just long enough to make his intentions clear. “Then I guess I’m waiting for you to prove it.”
Eddie chuckled under his breath, his eyes glinting with mischief. He let his gaze wander over Steve, taking his time. “You sure you’re ready for that, Harrington? I might not stop at just one.”
Steve’s smirk deepened, his voice lowering as he moved in closer, their bodies just inches apart. “Who says I want just one?”
Eddie’s confidence surged, his pulse quickening as he held Steve’s gaze. He closed the distance between them, his voice dropping into a daring whisper. “Bold move, Steve. You know I never back down from a challenge.”
Steve leaned in just enough that Eddie could feel his breath, the space between them almost nonexistent. His voice was smooth, teasing. “Good, because I’m not the type to play it safe.”
Eddie’s heart pounded, the heat between them thick in the air. He hovered just a breath away, their lips dangerously close. “Then what are you waiting for? Or are you all talk?”
Steve’s eyes sparkled with a challenge, his lips curling into a slow grin. “I could ask you the same.”
Eddie didn’t need more of an invitation. His heart raced, adrenaline mixing with desire. The space between them felt electric, charged with the weight of everything they’d already admitted. No more unspoken words or hidden feelings.
In one slow, deliberate step, Eddie closed the distance, his hand grazing Steve’s arm before settling on the side of his neck, feeling the quick pulse beneath his fingertips. For a moment, their eyes met—both daring the other to pull away. But neither did. Neither wanted to.
Then, with one bold move, Eddie pressed his lips to Steve’s, and it was like a dam breaking. The kiss was anything but hesitant—urgent, electric, and raw. Every ounce of tension that had simmered between them, all the teasing and playful banter, came crashing down into that kiss. It was as if they had been building up to this moment for longer than either of them cared to admit.
Steve responded instantly, his hand sliding up to tangle in Eddie’s hair, pulling him in closer as the kiss deepened. Eddie’s free hand found its way to Steve’s waist, fingers curling into the fabric of his shirt as he pressed closer, their bodies now fully against each other. Steve’s mind was spinning, but all he could focus on was the feel of Eddies lips, the warmth of his breath, and the undeniable chemistry that crackled between them. There was no room for hesitation, no space for second thoughts, just the overwhelming pull toward each other.
Steve let out a soft, breathy sound that sent a thrill down Eddie’s spine, and he couldn’t help but grin into the kiss. This was better than he’d imagined, better than all the teasing and stolen glances had promised.
When they finally, slowly, pulled apart, both of them were breathless. Eddie’s forehead rested against Steve’s, their noses brushing, their breathing ragged as they struggled to catch their breath. Steve’s lips were tingling, his heart still racing in his chest, and a triumphant, lopsided grin spread across his face.
“Well,” Eddie whispered, his voice low and rough, “I’d say that was worth the wait.”
Steve’s breath hitched, his eyes dark. “Yeah,” Steve murmured, still slightly dazed, his hand lingering on the back of Eddie’s neck. “Worth every second.”
Eddie chuckled softly, leaning in just enough that their lips brushed again, teasingly. “Good. Because I’m not done with you yet.”
Before Steve could respond, Eddie kissed him again, softer this time, but just as intense, as if to prove a point. They were just getting started, and neither of them had any intention of stopping.
When they finally pulled apart again, Steve laughed, his voice rough but playful. “Well I think you owe me more than that.”
Eddie raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eyes as he flashed a grin full of defiance. “Oh, do I now?”
Steve’s smile widened, his hand still resting on Eddie’s neck, their faces so close that their breaths mingled. “Yeah,” Steve whispered, his voice full of teasing challenge. “You started something. Now you’ve gotta finish it”
Eddie smirked, leaning in, his lips brushing against Steve’s ear as he murmured, ““Oh, trust me, I’m just getting started.”
With that, he kissed Steve again—longer, slower, letting the moment stretch out between them, knowing that whatever came next, they were far from done.
When they pulled back, Eddie’s grin was teasing. “So, Harrington… does this mean we’re doing couples costumes next year?”
Steve smirked, his voice low and flirty. “If that’s your way of asking me out, Munson, all you had to do was say so.”
They stood by the haunted bridge, the cool autumn air filled with the scent of fallen leaves and the lingering hum of ghost stories and faint memories of the past. As the chill of the night settled in around them, Steve knew this wasn’t just a fleeting moment. It was the start of something real, something he hadn’t even realized he’d been waiting for. Halloween had its tricks, but this? This was the best treat of all.