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madaboutmunson · 2 months ago

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In The Still Of The Night (Sweet Home Chicago Series - Part 4/4)

This series is now complete!

Summary for overview of the whole fic can be found here

For @eddiemonth 2023

Week 4 prompts used: Eager, Earnest, Drama, Melancoly (a drop), Hopeful Week 5 prompts used: Haunted House, Frantic, I Put A Spell On You - Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Costumes, Protective

Warnings: Brief mentions of creepy haunted house things, masks, dolls, spiders. A short moment of claustrophobia, which is eased and resolved.

Summary:

Halloween night, 1959. Eddie Munson built the haunted house, but he wasn’t prepared for the real ghosts...whispers in the dark, stolen glances, and the feeling that something is slipping through his fingers. By the time the night takes them from flickering candlelight to the glow of a hidden nightclub, Eddie is faced with something far scarier than ghosts...the truth. Because some things feel too perfect to be real.

And some moments change everything.

Romance/Fluff Word Count : 18.7K

Ao3 Link -------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eddie flicks up the collar of the borrowed trenchcoat against the wind howling down the street, as they stood outside the decrepit old place. “Dustin, are you sure about this? It looks like this place might fall apart if one of us sneezed,” Robin complained, folding her arms so that some of her scarecrow straw got bent. Dustin waved a dismissive hand at her. “Look, if you want to chicken out and go trick-or-treating with Max, that's up to you. Lucas said the scavenger hunt here was amazing last year, and Eddie managed to land it for us this year.” “Well, my mom really,” Eddie corrected.

He had ventured out to Maxwell Street with his mom when she went to buy some new tools, hardware, and fasteners. Maxwell Street, in 1959 Chicago, was a vibrant stretch of market stalls, bustling with energy. The air was thick with the mingling scents of a cornucopia of foods, diesel exhaust, ground metal, and polish. Vendors called out their wares, and the chatter of pedestrians added to the symphony of the street, making it feel alive and full of possibility. Esmeralda shopped around for anything unique but kept to her regular stall for her staples.

“Loyalty’ll get you places, kid,” she said, eyeing the goods. “You keep your word, you work hard, and in this city, that’s worth more than gold. Too many people out here looking to line their pockets, and you know what? They’ll throw you under the bus for a buck. You hear me? If something looks too good to be true, it’s probably a con.”

Eddie nodded his understanding and helped carry her shopping.

“Hey, Freddie! Hey, Guiliana!” His mom called out, receiving a wave from the front of the stall for them to ring up her purchases.

“Well, well, look who’s back in the neighbourhood. Mrs. Munson herself! Been a minute, huh?” The stout man with slicked-back, receding hair and tattooed forearms beamed at his mother and looked Eddie over. “This the kid?"

His mom nodded proudly. “Yeah, this is my Eddie,” she said, bundling his face in her hands and kissing his cheek hard. Eddie pretended to hate it, pulling a face, but his heart wasn’t in it. He couldn’t help but smile, despite the embarrassing public display. It was a love and acceptance he’d always wanted. He quickly glanced at Freddie, catching his teasing grin, and he could feel the warmth spreading across his cheeks.

“Oh, Ezzy, honey! He looks just like ya! Doesn’t he, Fred?” The woman with a baby on her hip exclaimed and beamed at him. Eddie looked away, the blush creeping further down his cheeks from the compliment, and started having a look through some of the Halloween decorations.

“He sure does. Is he gonna be taking up the family business?” Freddie asked as he bagged up the screws and nails.

“Undetermined. He’s working at Harrington’s at the moment, but I sure hope we can get him in a nice office somewhere if we can get him his dream. He’s a creative type. Writer, artist, musician. You know the type, Freddie, the ones sending this city to ruin,” Eddie’s mom teased with a wink, sending Guiliana into a loud chuckle.

“Sounds like the boys in the bar have been gossiping again, huh, baby?” His wife laughed, and her husband’s cheeks reddened.

It wasn’t exactly clear to Eddie why, after all that talk of loyalty and such, his mom had embarrassed the man adding up her total.

“Well, I didn’t mean your boy. I just mean the ones spilling out of the blues clubs and university,” Freddie defended and looked over to Eddie with a friendly nod, his voice softer. “Harrington’s, huh? You all set for Halloween? I could throw in a few decorations if you wanted?”

“Hmmm, well, you might be able to help us with something. You still got that place in the back of the market? The one I sorted the plumbing on? Eddie here could decorate it for ya for Christmas, brighten up the place, providing you let him and his friends use it one night for a few hours. Save you and Lana a few hours, right?”

Eddie perked up at his name. He used to help Wayne decorate a lot of the trailers where they lived, just so everyone had decorations up.

“I ain’t so sure about a bunch of teens using that place for a few hours if you know what I mean?” Freddie said, handing over the total to Esmeralda.

“Freddie. It’s the Harrington kids, and Eddie here, it’s just for a few hours on Halloween night. Not late. No funny business. Right, Eddie?”

“Yeah,” Eddie agreed enthusiastically, finally picking up on the deal his mom was laying down.

Three sets of eyes trained hopefully on Freddie, and he didn’t look convinced.

“You know Fred, if Eddie’s doing the decorating of the old place, and Carla here is at her Nana’s, that’d give us-”

“Sold! I mean, deal!” Freddie said enthusiastically at Eddie and his mom. “I’ll grab you the key, buddy. Two shakes of a tail.” He rustled about in a toolbox behind him.

Guiliana and Esmeralda exchanged mischievous smiles, and Eddie had to hide his laughter.

Freddie handed over the key to Eddie’s mom, and they went on their way.

“I get why Freddie was so enthusiastic about not decorating, but why his wife?” Eddie whispered when they were out of earshot.

“Well, Eddie, I thought you were a modern man. Women can enjoy alone time with their spouse just as much as men can.”

Eddie turned crimson. “Oh my god, Mom, no, I didn’t mean that, but is that why?”

She laughed loudly. “Sorry, sweetheart, I couldn’t resist. It’s actually because Freddie is not a decorator and usually injures himself every Christmas Eve decorating that place. He won’t ask for any help and leaves it until the last minute! You’re basically ensuring her husband is able-bodied for Christmas,” she smiled. “But in more important news, we got you a venue for Halloween, huh? I know he’s hired it out before, and I can help you set up and decorate if you want. Unless, of course, you wanna ask Steve?” She offered, but Eddie didn’t miss the mischievous grin on her face.

“Hey now, come on, that’s not fair,” he was embarrassed about his crush on Steve being so obvious, but lately, it had seemed pointless to hide it from his mom. She could read him like a book, and she wasn’t going to tell a soul. Even if it would never happen, having crushes could be fun, or so she said. Sometimes, it felt like torture. “Think I could pull off somethin’ real cool, surprise Steve, you know?”

“You think he won’t notice you not being around?” Esmeralda scoffed out a laugh.

“Oh. Right. Well, maybe I can tell him what I’m doing, just not tell him the details.”

Eddie couldn't believe his mom had taken such a risk teasing Freddie, just to get him and his friends a place for Halloween. It was pretty risky, especially since Freddie was her main supplier for work essentials. Though maybe he had underestimated his mom and the connections, bonds, and rapport she had built through her own hard work. She always had a way of knowing exactly what he needed, even when he didn’t, and this was no exception. Maybe this Halloween thing wasn’t just about a party or the decorations. It was about their bond. Something they could work on together.

And so, it had happened that way. Eddie had let Steve know that, though the original place Nancy had suggested had fallen through, this new place was an option. Steve had all but tackled him to the ground in excitement, and called Nancy, all of Hellfire, and ran upstairs to tell all the other Harringtons.

Eddie and his mom worked hard on the place for a few weeks in their spare time, setting up surprises and decorations they found in the attic until the place looked like a minimalist, abandoned version of the House on Haunted Hill.

“I would go, but I don’t know where Max has got to, and Steve’s driving, and we all know he’s not going home early tonight,” she rolled her eyes and scoffed. “Ah speak of the devil and he will appear,” Dustin chirped happy to see Steve, but he frowned, “Where’s your costume?” “This is my costume,” Steve raised an eyebrow at him, “What exactly are you a baked potato?” “No, Steve. I’m a Robot. I was a pretty great Robot until I got crushed in the back of your car because you invited too many people!”

Eddie knew Steve’s costume even without seeing it in full. The boots, the deep blue jeans and white t-shirt, the way his hair was styled slightly differently, how his cigarette drooped lazily from his mouth. He was just missing the defining piece. Steve smiled at him broadly, “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid,” he said as a rumble of bikes approached and made him shout over them, “Bogart. Casablanca. Right?” Eddie nodded enthusiastically, unable to peel his eyes from Steve’s, “Dean. Rebel without a cause. Right?” he replied without needing to check over the outfit. Steve’s eyes searched Eddie’s and took a drag on his cigarette, “See Dustin, Eddie knew it right away. You like that movie, Ed? It's one of my fav-” Steve started to say as he approached Eddie but was cut off by the rapid sound of heels on the pavement, and a tackled hug, from a human-sized black cat. “I got the windbreaker you asked for!” Nancy smiled up at Steve and he sighed and beamed right back at her, and Eddie felt like a thumbprint in a perfect cake, and stepped back, only to bump into Jonny from the Hellfire Club. “Hey man, neat costume. Nance! Come and look at Ed’s costume its like he pulled it straight off the movie screen or somethin’!” he marvelled and patted Eddie on the shoulder as Nancy ran back towards them, Steve paced after her a moment, and was stopped by Robin who pulled him to one side, as he slipped into the bright red jacket. His hat got ruffled and two arms surrounded his shoulders from Gareth and Jeff from Hellfire as they flanked him, “Heard you got some frights for us tonight, Ed,” Jeff grinned. “Now don’t feel bad if I don't react, I’m just tougher than the lot of ya. The effort is still appreciated, Munson,” Gareth added kissing Eddie’s Fedora, “And don’t mind if Argyle tries to befriend a skeleton or two. He’s, uh, just got a few new samples from his cousin. So he might be more space cadet than anything else tonight.” Eddie notices the Hellfire guys don't have costumes on, that is until Nancy hands them out some masks, and puts some mouse ears on Jonny, drawing him on some whiskers with a beauty pencil she dropped back in her bag. “Glad to see someone else made the effort,” Nancy smiled at Eddie and extended her hand, “Nice to meet you again.” Eddie awkwardly shook it, kissing her hand seemed a little way out of line, or maybe he just didn't want to, maybe he was a little jealous of how good her feline outfit looked. She laughed and Eddie didn't miss how Steve rushed over when she did and smiled at her fondly. “Yeah, not a great first impression. Sorry about that,” Eddie said sincerely, and Nancy shook her head. “Not at all. That drawing was great, and honestly, Billy is a total ass. Steve vouched for you. I knew you were an ok guy,” She smiled kindly at Eddie. That smile told Eddie everything he needed to know. He wasn’t blind, after all. Nancy Wheeler was easily the prettiest girl he’d ever seen. When her big baby-blue eyes landed on you, it was like the world paused for a second. There was a kind of quiet intensity in them, like she was studying you, analysing every little detail, like she could see straight through you. It would be almost unnerving if she wasn’t so beautiful. Her features were delicate, elegant, yet undeniably striking, framed perfectly by soft waves of brown hair that bounced lightly as she moved with grace. All in all, a recipe for easy disarmament of anyone’s defences.

Eddie wasn’t blind, and he wasn’t stupid either. He could see it. The way Steve’s gaze would linger on Nancy, the softness in his eyes when she smiled at him, the way he seemed to always have her back. Eddie knew the truth. Steve still had feelings for Nancy, and there was no question about it. How could no one else see it? Or maybe they did and just didn’t mention it? Not that it mattered. Eddie knew Steve was a pipe dream, a fantasy he’d created for himself, but the thought still stung in a way that Eddie couldn’t quite shake.

He could see Nancy for what she was. Funny, smart, kind, fierce. The total package. He could understand why Steve still carried a flame for her. And it wasn’t that Eddie had any ill feelings toward Nancy. Far from it. She was a force, someone anyone would be lucky to know. She didn’t just attract people; she fully enchanted them, probably without even trying.

He knew he and Steve were never meant to be, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t chase that dazzling smile or impress him tonight with a bit of creativity. Maybe if he leaned into the things Steve enjoyed about him, it could be a consolation prize of sorts. Something small to hold onto.

Steve’s voice broke his thoughts as he tugged Nancy toward the front door. “Come on, let’s go see what Eddie has planned for us.”

Eddie caught Jonny’s relaxed, unfazed expression and gave a small nod, his confusion quickly swept aside. This wasn’t the time to dwell on tangled feelings or what could never be. He decided to shelve the mess in his head for later. Tonight wasn’t about him or his emotions, it was about putting on a show.

Forcing a grin, he strode toward the house, adjusting his hat and lighting a cigarette. With a practised ease, he let himself slip into the role of the confident, charismatic host.

“Man, this place looks like it’s about to eat us,” Dustin muttered, glancing at Steve, who only smirked.

“That’s the idea, Dusty,” Eddie replied with a wink, puffing on his cigarette and letting the ember flare briefly in the gathering darkness.

“Ladies and, well, are there any gentlemen here?” he teased in his best Bogie impersonation, a playful chorus of boos sounding out from the guys making him break out into a smile, “Tonight we venture into a house of horrors,” he declared, his voice low and theatrical, “not for the faint of heart, so if any of you are a gutless wonder, better high tail it outta here before its too late!”

A nervous chuckle rippled through the group, and Eddie smiled to himself. He had them exactly where he wanted them. On edge but eager to see what lay ahead. “Take a good look at each other and the city. It could be the last time you ever see it.” As he turned to the house, the teens began murmuring among themselves. The building loomed before them, a dark silhouette against the evening sky. It was a three-storey brick structure, with the windows boarded up, but there has been some attempt to add decorative shutters at some point to cover up that fact. Unfortunately, the only one that seemed to remain was hanging on by a hinge. The slightly warped door made it look like the house itself was holding its breath, waiting for them to enter. With the key in hand, he pushed it into the lock, and though stiff, with a grunt of effort, which he overperformed for the group, the door creaked open beautifully to set the eerie mood. Eddie stepped in to make way for the others to enter, and the floor groaned underfoot. The entranceway smelled of dust and rotting wood. A single dangling light bulb in the hallway flickered on, which was his mom’s genius idea, casting a shaky glow over peeling, yellow, floral wallpaper. Eddie knew that beyond this mood-setting introduction to the house lay a rabbit’s warren of deserted rooms, purposefully broken fixtures, and furniture from times gone by that would give it an extra spooky setting for the teens. “Welcome,” Eddie said with a grin, his voice dropping into a dramatic rasp, “to your worst nightmare.” Gareth charged through first, and Jeff and Argyle were in tow. Nancy clung onto Jonny’s arm as he was next over the threshold. Last of all are the three Harringtons. Dustin raised his boxed foil-covered head and marvelled, “Whoa,” he said softly as he took in some of the details the older teens hadn’t. Reaching out to touch the netted cobwebs made of stretched fluffy cotton, toy spiders placed in them, the eerie painting on the wall of what should be a portrait but in place of a face was a skull only, only lit up by the flickering candle beneath it, and the smokey smell of burnt herbs coming from the abandoned fireplace, where there sat not logs but a pile of broken dolls, some with their eyes closed or missing save for one looking right out into the room, both bright eyes focused on the doorway they had just come through. “Oh! Jesus!,” Robin exclaimed as she made eye contact with the watchful resident of the fireplace, and turned abruptly towards Steve covering her eyes, bumping Steve firmly into Eddie, Steve's hand gripping onto Eddie’s arm as he stabilised himself with a bashful whisper of, “Shit, sorry, Ed.” “It's dark in here, it’ll happen,” Eddie smiled up at him from under the brim of his hat, Steve's hand released its grip and smoothed over the arm of his trenchcoat, and Eddie was in heaven, and immediately had to distract himself, “You doing ok, Robin? None of it's real it's all just pretend. I can turn the lights on or grab you a flashlight if it's too scary?” He asked and it was not a tease or patronising, he was completely sincere.

The kind offer got a giggle out of Dustin, and Robin’s demeanour completely changed, she frowned and stood up tall, towering over her little brother in her scarecrow hat, “Oh you just wait. I’m gonna make you scream this house down when you least expect it.” “Yeah, yeah I’d love to see you try and scare me,” Dustin scoffed and was immediately shoved lightly by Steve.

“Knock it off, you’re ruining the mood. It’s supposed to be creepy and scary, and it will be because Eddie set this up,” Steve said, smirking as he glanced at Eddie out of the corner of his eye. He gently ushered his siblings further into the dimly lit hallway. Eddie, watching the scene unfold, quietly closed the front door behind them and locked it, the click of the bolt echoing in the silence.

Steve placed a hand on Robin’s back, guiding her forward as they made their way down the dark corridor. Eddie noticed how, with a subtle movement, Robin’s hand slid up behind her and joined Steve’s. It was quick, almost imperceptible, but Eddie caught the way Steve’s fingers curled protectively around hers, keeping the gesture hidden from Dustin, who was too busy muttering to himself about the decorations to notice.

Ahead of them, muffled laughter and haunting noises drifted from the next room, where the Hellfire boys, Nancy, and Jonny had rushed ahead. Eddie could hear the occasional burst of giggles mingling with half-hearted groans.

Then came a sudden silence, followed by a sharp scream that sent a jolt through Eddie’s chest. He froze for a moment, straining to catch the voices that followed.

“Holy shit, it caught me off guard!” Gareth’s voice rang out, muffled but unmistakable, laced with complaint and laughter. It was hard to tell what had just happened, but the sharp thud that followed and the uproar of laughter suggested Gareth had fallen victim to one of Eddie’s traps.

“Help me up, you bunch of assholes!” Gareth shouted, and Eddie could imagine him sprawled on the floor, helpless as the rest of Hellfire doubled over in hysterics.

Steve glanced toward the direction of the noise, his eyebrows raised, before suddenly taking off, his pace quickening as he led Robin and Dustin toward the next room. Eddie followed, his heart quickening with a mix of amusement and unease. When they entered the room, it was eerily ordinary at first glance, its dark ambience transformed by Eddie’s careful handiwork. Worn chairs flanked a small table in the centre of the room, where a makeshift crystal ball sat. The orb, crafted from blown glass and shrouded in tattered fabric, glimmered faintly, casting distorted shadows on the peeling wallpaper.

The Hellfire boys’ muffled laughter grew quieter as they moved further into the house, their voices echoing from a room deeper inside. Nancy lingered behind, her expression bright as she glanced at Robin.

“It’s the music box,” Nancy explained, her voice low but amused. “When you open it, it triggers something.” She turned her attention to Eddie, her smile widening. “This setup is pretty neat,” she said with an approving nod before glancing at Steve.

Steve cleared his throat. “Uh, you guys went through the hallway too fast. You missed all the keen stuff. Want me to show you?”

Nancy nodded enthusiastically and looped her arm through Steve’s, pressing against his side. Eddie’s stomach knotted at the ease of her touch, the casual way she clung to him as if it were second nature. Jealousy itched at the edges of his mind. The sludge of envy swirled in his gut, even though he had no business being envious of what he could never have or who he could never be.

“Unless, of course, I’m stealing your protector away from you all?” Nancy teased, glancing meaningfully at Robin and Dustin. But when her sharp, analytical gaze landed on Eddie, he felt stripped bare, as if she could see straight through him.

He forced himself to act normal. “Hey, I set up this place. I know every single detail. I’m probably the best person to show Robin and Dustin around.” He smiled at the group, his voice steady despite the faint tension clawing at him. Before Robin could argue, Steve and Nancy had disappeared down the hallway, their whispers and giggles lingering in their wake.

Eddie turned to Dustin and Robin, trying to shake the uneasy feeling creeping up his spine. “Shall we?” he asked, offering his arm to Robin. To his surprise, she took it without hesitation, her fingers curling lightly around his elbow.

But Steve and Nancy’s voices, those muffled, conspiratorial whispers, still reached Eddie’s ears. He couldn’t help but imagine the worst, and the thought unsettled him more than he cared to admit.

“You guys want to know what happened?” he asked, plastering on a big, warm smile in an effort to distract himself.

“Fuck yes!” Dustin exclaimed immediately. “You made Gareth nearly shit his pants. I need to know how you did it!”

“Language!” Robin chided, wrinkling her nose. She tightened her grip on Eddie’s arm and glanced up at him. “So, is something going to jump out at us?”

Eddie patted her arm with mock reassurance. “Yeah, sort of. Dustin, would you do the honours?” he said, gesturing toward the music box. As Dustin’s hand hovered over it, Eddie leaned toward Robin, speaking softly.

“The setup’s obvious,” he explained as he led Robin a little farther into the room. “See? There’s no way to get to the music box without walking around the table and doubling back. But when you do…” He paused, letting the suspense build as he turned Robin to face the table. “You’ll see a guest at the table. Don’t worry, it’s just foam shapes covered in black netting. Ready?”

Robin nodded, her wide eyes gleaming with nervous excitement. Eddie led her to the edge of the table, positioning her just right, before gesturing toward the shadowy figure slumped in one of the chairs. The dim light made it look disturbingly human.

“And now,” Eddie continued, his voice lowering to a conspiratorial whisper, “when Dustin steps closer to the music box…”

Dustin took a step forward, and the floorboard beneath him groaned ominously. Robin gasped, clutching Eddie’s arm tighter, while Dustin’s entire body shuddered in reflex.

“Oh, that’s creepy as heck,” Robin said with a nervous laugh.

Eddie grinned. “Then, when he opens the box…”

Dustin hesitated, then lifted the lid. The faint, tinkling melody filled the room as a plastic bat suddenly dropped from the ceiling, landing squarely on Dustin’s head. He let out a startled squeak, batting at it instinctively.

Robin burst into laughter, her tension breaking as Dustin carefully examined the bat, still wide-eyed. “Oh, that’s so good,” he said, shaking his head in reluctant admiration. He placed the bat back on the music box, where it retracted smoothly into the shadows above.

“Not bad, huh?” Eddie asked, looking at Robin.

She nodded approvingly, a playful smirk on her lips. “Yeah, not bad, I guess,” she teased. “Next room?”

Eddie hesitated, glancing toward the doorway where Steve and Nancy had disappeared. “Should we wait for them?” he asked, though he already knew the answer.

“Nah, forget them,” Dustin said with a dismissive wave. “They’re a lost cause.”

Eddie forced a chuckle and led the way, doing his best to ignore the faint sounds of Steve and Nancy’s hushed voices trailing through the house.

The next room was much larger, which meant it was darker, but less cramped, the tightness of Robin’s grip on Eddie eased with it. He put his hand on hers, at which she looked a little confused but it settled as he patted it, “Listen, nothing in here is real. My mom and I checked the whole place out, and we staged all the creepy stuff. You’re safe. I wouldn’t have invited any of you here if it was unsafe. Sure it's old and creaky but Mom and I swung off these beams, and stomped all over the place.” He smiled, “I don't know if you’ve met my mama but she would not let me be in here if she was worried about it.” Robin nodded knowingly, “Yeah that's true. Ma wasn’t gonna let us out of trick or treating until Steve said you and your mom had set this up”

Eddie felt a little warmth in his chest at that level of trust.

“And Steve was not gonna miss being in a haunted house with-” Dustin chimed in but Robin cut him off. “With you and your mom designing it. He knew it would be imaginative.” Robin could see how Dustin shirked slightly at her minor frown. Did they suspect or know about Steve wanting to be alone with Nancy too? “Hey, you know what, I’m suddenly feeling a little braver from your pep talk. Dustin and I are gonna have an explore, isn't that right, Dustin?” “Yeah,” Dustin croaked out as Robin grabbed him by the arm and marched him off.

It should have felt like Eddie could now sit back and watch the others experience this creepy set-up to his delight, but he found himself feeling rather like a spare part, and for all his ideals of being a lone wolf or leader, he didn't like it too much. He moved to slink back into the shadow-heavy sides of the room when Jonny captured his shoulder in his hand. “The Munsons seem to have outdone themselves, even if it doesn't get any scarier than this, Gareth figuratively, thankfully, shitting his pants will be cemented in my brain as long as I live,” he laughed and pat Eddie hard on the back a few times, and then took pause, “Hey, where’s Steve,” he narrowed his eyes for a second and then raised his eyebrows in understanding, “Ah he and Nancy off giggling somewhere I bet? Thick as thieves those two.” Jonny shook his head with a fond smile. Eddie didn't respond, because he couldn’t. Was Jonny not concerned? Did he trust Steve and Nancy so thoroughly that the worry isn’t entering his mind? Had he taken a few too many bumps to the head and was just plain stupid? Eddie awkwardly fussed with the collar of his trenchcoat, for somewhere to put his weirded-out energy. It was even Jonny who had brought up the fact that Steve was breaking hearts all over the city, well, in that he didn’t pursue the girls he flirted with. Did Steve just like flirting and was saving himself for the one? Could a young guy be that chaste? “Penny for ‘em?” Jonny said getting into Eddie’s space.

“Uh, you know just trying to remember all the things we set up, where not to tread and stuff,” Eddie said with a weak laugh. “Oh! Hey, guys, Eddie just let loose a secret, there are more triggers on the floor,” Jonny called out and gave Eddie a wink, as he watched the booted Hellfire gang become beginner ballerinas and get on their tiptoes to move around, which made him genuinely laugh.

“Hey, Dustin! Come check this out, we found one of your-” Jeff called out, but before he could finish, the pyre of upturned small chests toppled over, revealing a small U.F.O complete with two clay aliens riding on it.

“You break it. You buy it!” Eddie called out in jest, but he got a forlorn grumble from Gareth as Jeff and Argyle playfully scolded him for being too rough with an odd sculpture.

Robin sighed next to Eddie’s ear and it was enough to make him jump, “Why are boys like this?” “An age-old question,” Eddie muttered and shook his head. Dustin rounded them quickly to go and investigate the heap of furniture with much enthusiasm, and Robin was still muttering about the general stupidity of boys when a voice cut in behind them.

"So, what'd we miss?"

Eddie spun around so quickly that he nearly gave himself a crick in the neck, and in his haste, he knocked Robin off balance.

"Jesus H. Christ, where did you two come from?" he blurted, breath catching as he glanced at the pair standing in the doorway. He looked away from them, their pleased-with-themselves expressions were enough to make the bile of jealousy simmer in his stomach.

Eddie didn’t have time to explore the possible reasons why, because Robin tumbled against a wall and reached up to steady herself by a light fixture. Eddie grimaced as the fixture clicked, and a bucket of plastic bugs cascaded down onto her. Her scream split the air, and Eddie rushed over.

He felt a light pressure on his lower back. A voice started to say, "Mis-" but their words were cut off by the sound of Nancy's giggle as Jonny swept her up in his arms.

"Robin, are you okay? I'm so sorry, I should have warned you," Eddie said, his tone thick with regret. "They're just plastic, see?" He gathered the bugs from her hair and squeezed them in his hand for proof.

A shadow loomed above, and Eddie looked up slowly. It was Steve. Eddie's heart sank; he was supposed to be watching over Robin and Dustin, yet here he was, having accidentally traumatized fifty per cent of them, and they were only in the third room of the house.

Steve knelt effortlessly and lifted Robin. "Come on, it's just a bunch of toys. None of it’s real," he said. Eddie had half-expected a more protective line, maybe "Shall I take you home?" or even "Want me to knock Eddie out for you?" Judging by the look on Robin's face, perhaps she’d been expecting the same.

"Hey, I'm sorry, let me make it up to you. I'll buy your drinks and snacks at the dance tonight, and I'll clue you in on all the safe paths in the rest of the house," Eddie offered with a hopeful smile, desperate not to upset her further. Robin glanced between him and a slightly indignant Steve, and Eddie's stomach churned at the thought of pressuring her. He stepped back, giving her space. "Or I can walk you home. I can call my mom, she'll get you. Whatever you need."

Steve's frown deepened, but not toward Robin. It was aimed squarely at Eddie.

"That's enough," Robin huffed, pushing Steve away and putting more distance between them. "I'm fine!"

"Didn't sound fine," Dustin muttered from across the room.

"Well, I am! I just got surprised, and it was more Eddie tripping over himself because of Steve creeping around than these stupid bugs," she grumbled as she smoothed down her clothes. As her blush faded, Eddie's bloomed, and Steve seemed relieved.

"I wasn't creeping!" Steve defended, though Robin barely registered his protest. With a roll of her eyes, she strode into the next room, leaving Steve and Eddie amid a scattered pool of plastic creepy crawlies.

Eddie turned to apologise, but before he could, he felt Steve's eyes on him. That familiar, sweet smile said more than words, a silent sigh of relief passed between them.

"Miss me?" Steve smirked.

Eddie couldn't help but laugh, the sound light and genuine, and Steve's smile widened.

"Come on, guys! You don't wanna get left behind!" Nancy called out. As they turned toward her voice, Eddie noticed everyone else, except for him and Steve, had moved on to the next part of the house. In that moment, Eddie realised just how completely wrapped up he was in Steve.

Everyone stayed together for the last few rooms of the house. Eddie tried not to give much away apart from the occasional signal to Robin of things to avoid like it was their little secret. Paper ghosts, masks that had their contours ghoulishly emphasised by paint and lighting, a glowing cauldron with shrouded figures huddled around it, tantalised and terrified the group, and he should have been proud, but Eddie was too distracted by his own fear. Steve and Nancy would repeatedly slink off behind a curtain or into a dark corner of the room, and though he couldn’t hear exactly what they were saying, their tone, whispers and mischievous giggles, made the jealousy swimming in the pit of his stomach, coil around his insides. Even though he had no right. Sometimes they didn't even hide it, they’d exchange knowing little smiles or glances.

The problem with jealousy was that it could be very distracting. Distracting enough for Eddie to lose his joy in the scare spectacular and glumly walk into a small closet to get away from everyone for a moment. “Ed? Are you in there? Thought we’d lost ya,” Steve said, peering into the darkness of the closet and straight at Eddie.

“Yeah, sorry, just admiring the symbols Mom painted in here,” Eddie replied, his voice wavering slightly.

Steve stepped inside to take a closer look, and a cold chill ran down Eddie’s spine. He barely had time to open his mouth before Steve unknowingly stepped on the panel Eddie had carefully avoided, and the door slammed shut behind him.

Steve jolted back, instinctively grabbing for something, anything, and ended up pressed against Eddie as Eddie simultaneously lurched for the door. His hands grasped at nothing, his stomach lurching as the terrible realisation set in. There was no handle.

“Somethin’ wrong?” Steve asked quietly.

Beads of sweat formed beneath the brim of Eddie’s hat. His breath felt too shallow, his thoughts too loud. He hadn’t moved, hadn’t spoken. Hadn’t even realised he still had one arm wrapped around Steve’s waist.

“Eddie?” Steve’s voice softened, almost a whisper, but Eddie was stuck in time.

Eddie was six years old again, shoved into a school hallway by jeering kids while the teacher had conveniently disappeared for a coffee, or a smoke, or whatever the hell they did when they weren’t watching. He was backing up, back, back until he hit something, a mop and bucket, but he only saw them for a split second before everything vanished into inky blackness and as he turned back to his tormentors they too disappeared with a slam. Eddie knew what happened next, he'd be stuck in here for hours.

But this time, something was different. Something warm was at his back. Not cold. Not empty.

“Ed. You okay?” Steve asked, voice tinged with concern.

That was when Eddie realised what had pulled him back from the memory. Steve. His hand rubbing slow, warm circles against Eddie’s back.

Eddie cleared his throat, forcing his voice steady. “Y-yeah. Sorry.”

Steve’s hand retreated, but the heat it left behind migrated straight to Eddie’s face. “We’re stuck,” he admitted.

“Nah, let me try,” Steve said with a small laugh.

“There’s no handle on this side,” Eddie explained, keeping his tone gentle. “It’s a trap. I told my mom I didn’t like the idea of this one, but she said it would be fine. That I’d be on the other side to help. But I’m not. I’m on the wrong side.”

Panic helixed up his spine, icy and relentless.

The room was too dark. The only sliver of light came from the cracks in the door, illuminating fragments of Steve. The red strip of his collar, the curve of his jaw, the beauty marks Eddie had memorised a long time ago. The rest was lost in shadow.

“Ah, don’t worry,” Steve chuckled. “They’ll realize soon enough we’re missing.”

But Eddie wasn’t laughing. Fear had grasped at his lungs and his breathing was becoming faster, shorter, shallower.

Before he could think better of it, he lunged at the door, releasing Steve, and thumped on it with his fists and yelled for help at the top of his lungs.

“Jesus, it isn’t so bad being in here with me for a few minutes is it?” Steve joked, but it sounded a little forced, maybe Eddie’s weirdness was finally putting him on edge.

“I don't think they can hear us,” Eddie said urgently, fear clear in his tone, sweat forming in his palms.

Steve sighed. “Let me take a look at this door. I’m sure it’s nothing a bit of brute force can’t fix.”

Eddie snapped his head toward him. “Didn’t you hear me? I said it can only be opened from the other side!”

The rustling of Steve’s jacket had stopped, he must have frozen at the sharpness of his voice.

Guilt twisted in Eddie’s gut. “Shit, I’m sorry,” he muttered, wringing his hands. “I just… I don’t do well in small spaces. Got locked in a closet once. For hours. Thought I was gonna die in there.”

Steve was quiet for a beat. Then, understanding dawned in his voice.

“Ah,” he said, “Okay, well, this ain’t gonna be like that. They’ll come back. And this time, you’ve got a secret weapon that won’t let anything bad happen to ya.”

Eddie swallowed hard, digging his nails into the arms of his trench coat. “I do?”

In the darkness, Steve’s gorgeous smile was audible, “Yeah, ya do. You got me, this time.”

Eddie drew in a sharp breath. “Yeah?” he asked, embarrassed that he needed the comfort. Flustered that he wanted it.

“Come here,” Steve murmured, gripping Eddie’s arms. His hands were warm, steady, grounding. Slowly, he peeled Eddie’s fingers away from his arms and replaced them with his own.

Eddie stopped breathing.

Steve ran his hands in slow, soothing strokes up and down Eddie’s arms. “You got the fear, that’s all,” he muttered. “Your insides are probably going crazy, right? We just need to get ‘em back to base. Same thing happens to me if I’m underwater too long.”

Eddie’s heart hammered, his breath still uneven, his skin on fire where Steve was touching him, melting the icicles of panic stabbing into him.

“Now, I can’t see ya too well, so did you nod yes, or shake your head no?” Steve asked, a quiet chuckle in his voice.

Eddie hiccuped. “Uh, yeah. I nodded.”

“Okay,” Steve said, gentle as ever. “Just listen to me. We’re gonna pretend this place ain’t so small. Close your eyes. Imagine the stockroom at the store. That’s pretty dark, huh?”

“Yeah,” Eddie whispered.

Something about Steve’s voice should have sent him into a worse frenzy. But it wasn’t.

It was helping.

And that was the worst part.

This was probably the only time Steve would ever touch him like this. Not because he wanted to, but because he had to. Eddie wondered how many girls had felt this special because Steve wanted to hold them, not because he needed to calm them down.

“Remember that time we were in the stockroom and Caesar spooked you?” Steve asked, voice tinged with amusement.

Eddie did remember that. He’d yelped, Steve had laughed, and had looked so adorable petting the stealthy cat.

“And then we were at the shelves, weren’t we?” Steve continued, his voice lower now. “About this close?”

Eddie shivered under Steve’s hands. He remembered that too.

He remembered not panicking then. He remembered wanting the space to feel smaller, so Steve had to be close to him.

Just like right now.

“There we go,” Steve whispered.

Eddie realised he wasn’t breathing so hard anymore. His shoulders weren’t locked up. The pain across his shoulders had lessened, replaced by something else, a dull, aching warmth.

His heart wasn’t hammering as quickly, but it was deeply thudding in his chest so loudly he was sure Steve might hear it. As he became more aware of his body, he realised why.

Steve’s hands had moved to his shoulders. Rubbing them soothingly.

And Eddie’s hands had also found a resting place.

They were on Steve’s waist.

The panic surged back.

Eddie jerked his hands away like he’d touched fire. “Oh, no. Steve, I’m sorry! Shit, I didn’t realise-”

“Hey,” Steve cut in softly. “It’s no big deal. I ain’t gonna say anything.” He tilted his head slightly. “It helped, right?” Steve’s voice was much closer, and Eddie could feel his breath on the shell of his ear.

Eddie had no words. If only Steve knew. If he knew the secret Eddie had been hiding, if he knew how much he wanted to remember this moment forever, he’d probably be disgusted.

“Eddie, I-”

Before Steve could finish, the door yanked open.

“About time!” Steve said firmly at Dustin’s silhouette. “E- I was scared half to death in there. We called for help!”

Eddie barely had time to process before Steve grabbed his arm and pulled him out of the closet, tugging him into the dimly lit room.

“A ‘thanks’ would have been more suitable,” Dustin scoffed, crossing his arms.

“Any more of that, and you’ll find yourself walking home,” Steve grumbled, pointing in Dustin’s face before brushing dust off his jacket. Then, with an easy smile, he turned to Eddie. “Come on, Ed, show us the rest of the place.”

The warmth in Steve’s voice, the way he said Ed like it was something special, made Eddie’s insides do a loop-de-loop.

There weren’t many rooms left, but for the rest of the night, Steve didn’t leave his side. Not even when Nancy tried to coax him away.

Everyone enjoyed themselves. Even Eddie, despite the lingering tension still buzzing through his nerves. He was satisfied knowing that every last person had gotten their fair share of scares, his efforts rewarded by their laughter and lingering adrenaline. They all thanked him, telling him to pass on their appreciation to his mom.

Pride warmed his chest from their compliments, but what set his heart aflame was the pleased smile and approving nod Steve sent his way as he was sitting on the hood of his car, in front of Eddie.

“I knew it’d be a knockout with you on board,” Steve said, looking directly into Eddie’s soul before dropping his cigarette butt on the pavement. “I’ll never forget it, that’s for sure.”

Then, only when Eddie couldn’t respond, when his throat was tight with something he couldn’t name, did Steve finally turn away to stub out the cigarette on the ground.

They lingered in the crisp, chill night air for a while, waiting for Steve to drive them back. He was still deep in conversation with the Hellfire guys and Nancy about something, his brows furrowed in concentration.

Eddie, feeling the cool bite of the night, motioned to offer Robin his trench coat. She gave him a look like he had just landed from outer space, but before she could say anything, Dustin plucked it out of his hands with a relieved sigh, exchanging it for his foil-covered cardboard box costume.

Steve rejoined them a moment later, scanning the trio with mild suspicion before shrugging it off.

“So, we’re thinking we’ll head to the dance at my uncle’s place next,” he said, eyes flicking straight to Eddie before shifting to Dustin. “Gotta make ourselves look real sharp first. That okay?”

Then, before Dustin could get any ideas, Steve pointed directly at him. “Not you, pipsqueak. Nighty night for you.”

Dustin’s jaw dropped. “Not Robin either, though,” he said smugly, before turning to see her equally smug expression. His face fell. “That’s not fair!”

Steve crossed his arms. “First of all, you’re not old enough. Second of all, it’s gonna look pretty weird if you dance with Eddie.”

Eddie choked. His head snapped toward Steve, then toward Robin, who gave him a playful finger wave.

“Steve said you didn’t have time for dating,” she smirked. “Because of your writing? And you wouldn’t try and date your best friend’s little sister, now would you?”

Eddie opened his mouth, then shut it again.

Maybe he could get out of this. Maybe he could suggest not dancing or, even better, bailing on the whole thing entirely. But before he could even begin to form an excuse, Jonny clapped a hand on his shoulder.

“And you wouldn’t wanna skip out after we told Uncle V you’d be there tonight,” Jonny added with a grin.

Eddie blinked, dumbfounded. “Wait, what?”

“And it’s a dance,” Nancy added smoothly, drawing Eddie’s gaze to her. “So if you just stand there against the wall all night, it’s gonna look a little weird, right?”

Eddie swallowed hard, trapped.

“You’re coming, right?” Steve asked, breaking Eddie from his thoughts.

Eddie blinked. “What?”

Steve smirked. “The dance. You are coming.”

“I-” Eddie hesitated. “Um, I don’t even have anything to wear.”

“Don’t worry, I got lots of clothes,” Steve beamed, already waving them toward the car. “You can borrow something of mine. Let’s go.”

“With the greatest respect, Steve,” Eddie said, rubbing the back of his neck, “I think you’ve got a little more muscle on you than me. But it’s really kind of you to offer.” He glanced at the others. “I can just grab something for the next dance. My mom can-”

He stopped short when Steve glanced toward Jonny and Nancy, panic flashing briefly across his face before he masked it.

Maybe this was important. Maybe this uncle of his was someone Eddie actually needed to meet, formally. They’d met briefly before at Steve’s house, and Eddie knew he was a well-respected, and, in some circles, feared, man.

“Problem solved,” Jonny chimed in, slinging an arm around Eddie’s shoulders. “I’ve got a suit that’ll fit you. You’re not getting out of this one, Munson.”

“Wait, what?” Eddie looked between them, feeling very ganged up on. “You’ve just got an extra suit lying around?”

Jonny shrugged. “Yeah. I brought a spare in case I spilled something on mine.”

Eddie squinted. “Why does that somehow make sense?”

“Because I know myself,” Jonny said proudly.

Steve grinned, clapping Eddie on the back. “Alright, no excuses. We’re heading back to get ready.”

Before Eddie could fully register what was happening, he found himself, making a brief stop at Jonny’s, before being dropped off at his apartment with a complete suit in hand, including a hat.

“Steve said you’re partial to hats,” Jonny grinned, passing it over. “You sure you don’t wanna get ready at Steve’s with the rest of us?”

Eddie scrambled for an excuse, but Steve beat him to it.

“Eddie likes to take his time,” Steve chuckled, leaning against the car. “Can’t have him jostling for mirror space with you greasers.”

He chuckled and his eyes landed back on Eddie, “Pick you up in half hour?” Eddie breathed a silent sigh of relief and nodded. “Yeah, that’d be great.”

“It’s a date,” Robin grinned from the back seat.

Steve immediately waved her off with a mock-annoyed look before shooting Eddie a final wave and driving off.

With the pressure of expectations mostly gone, Eddie took his time getting ready. No one had to know he was doing it for a potential compliment from Steve.

He stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the hat, smoothing out the fabric of the suit. It felt good. For the first time in a long time, he actually liked how he looked.

A sharp wolf whistle snapped him out of his thoughts, and heat immediately rushed to his face.

“Mama, geez!” Eddie laughed.

His mom leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed. “Well, excuse me, sir. Have you seen my boy? He was in here not twenty minutes ago.”

Eddie groaned, but he was grinning. “Aw, come on.”

She stepped closer, adjusting his tie, pride shining in her eyes. “You look like a million bucks,” she said warmly. Then, her expression turned teasing. “Now, don’t let any of those girls at the club bully you into anything. They’ll all be trying to get a dance with the most handsome guy there, so watch yourself.”

Eddie snorted. “Nah, that’ll be Steve. I think I’ll be okay.”

His mom tilted her head, smiling knowingly. “You think so?” She shook her head, smoothing his lapel. “I don’t think so. Not tonight.”

“Oh, stop,” Eddie groaned, rolling his eyes.

She chuckled and kissed his cheek.

“I gotta go,” Eddie said quickly, ducking away. “Don’t wanna be late for pick-up.”

She walked him to the door, slipping some quarters and a few bills into his pocket. “Ok Sweetheart. If anything happens, you call me. I know that place, worked on it a few times. I can be there in two shakes of a lamb’s tail to get you.” “Alright, Mama,” He said reassuringly as he walked towards the apartment door with her. “And remember to have fun!” She called after him as he closed the door and descended the stairs.

Eddie stepped outside just as headlights rounded the corner, casting long shadows against the pavement. His breath came a little shorter as the familiar car pulled up to the curb, engine purring low in the quiet night.

Steve leaned over, looking him over, smiling, and popping open the passenger door. “Right on time, Munson. Looking sharp.”

Eddie hesitated half a second too long, the compliment he’d made all the effort for made his heart flutter. He climbed in, adjusting his hat as he settled into the seat.

Steve gave him another once-over, grinning. “Not bad. Jonny’s suit actually fits you.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Eddie muttered, tugging at the collar. “Don’t get used to it.”

Steve chuckled as he pulled away from the curb. “Can’t make any promises.”

The night unfolded in a blur of spinning skirts, polished shoes scuffing against the dance floor, and laughter that echoed through the grand hall. In the end, Eddie wasn’t forced to dance with anyone, much to his relief. Steve, on the other hand, had no such reservations. He danced with what felt like every girl in the room, including his own sister, twirling her across the floor with an easy confidence that made it look effortless. He was a marvellous dancer.

Just like his mom had predicted, girls kept approaching him, asking if he was going to be dancing, but after his third excuse about an injured leg, Gareth caught on. That was all it took for him, Jeff, and Argyle to become Eddie’s personal defense squad, intercepting anyone who dared approach with a hopeful smile and an outstretched hand. It worked well enough, leaving Eddie free to watch the dancefloor from a safe distance, drink in hand, feeling the bass of the music hum through the floorboards.

Steve had been pulled into conversation with a group of older men in very expensive suits, their discussions quiet but intense. Eddie figured it was something important because within minutes, the group had been led, by Steve, upstairs to a private bar. It had deep, dark red leather armchairs and heavy, polished mahogany tables that gleamed under the low light. A large desk stood at the far end of the room, and a window overlooked the dance floor below. Most of the others drifted back downstairs soon after, but Eddie lingered, letting the atmosphere settle around him.

To his surprise, Steve didn’t leave either.

Eddie tilted his head as Steve exhaled, rolling his shoulders. “Takin’ a break from all that twirling?”

Steve grinned, loosening his tie slightly. “You have no idea.”

Neither of them made any move to leave. The music still pulsed through the air, but up here, away from the press of bodies, the space felt quieter, more intimate. Eddie leaned against the railing, eyes on the dance floor below, but Steve was too close, his presence impossible to ignore.

He couldn’t tell how long they had been there, chatting idly, enjoying the music, pointing out anything amusing happening downstairs, sipping their drinks. Eddie felt almost giddy having Steve all to himself, finally, for the first time that evening.

“You wanna go dance?” Steve asked with a big smile, jutting his thumb toward the door leading back down to the club.

“Nah, I’m not much of a dancer,” Eddie said with a bashful shrug. “Two left feet and all that.”

Steve folded his arms, wrinkling the fabric of his jacket as he tilted his head. “What, we came all this way, and you don’t even wanna dance?”

The playful challenge in Steve’s voice, the way he looked at Eddie with that encouraging grin, made something coil tight in Eddie’s chest.

“I-I don't wanna embarrass you in front of your friends,” Eddie tried to excuse. “Or, you know, myself in front of the girls. That’d be really uncool, right?”

Steve hummed, acting like he was deep in thought, pressing a hand to his chin, finger tapping against his lips. “Okay, sure,” he said slowly. “But what about me?”

Eddie nearly choked on his own breath.

After a cough, a desperate attempt to steady himself, he took a quick sip of his beer, trying to buy time. But when he glanced back up, Steve was still waiting, amusement dancing in his eyes.

“Well?” Steve prompted, his smirk widening.

“Well, what about you?” Eddie asked, feigning confusion. Stalling. Desperately clawing for an excuse, any excuse, to stop his brain from spiraling.

“I thought you were the smart guy around here?” Steve teased.

Eddie swallowed hard. What exactly was Steve implying?

Could he tell?

Had Eddie failed to assimilate into another community? Was the loudest thing about him tonight, not the clothes Steve’s friend had borrowed him, but himself, and the heavyweight champion-sized crush he had on his new friend?

Steve removed his jacket and laid it neatly over the back of the seat. Suddenly, the room felt a lot warmer.

Eddie swallowed hard as Steve rolled up his sleeves, fabric hugging the curve of his biceps before he turned back to face him.

“What I meant was,” Steve said, tilting his head slightly, “you wouldn’t be embarrassed to dance in front of me, right?”

He gave a small shrug. “You didn’t mention me in that list of excuses, so I figured that meant I was okay.”

Eddie desperately tried to keep his eyes on Steve’s face or the room surrounding them, to prevent them trailing over the rest of him. He laughed nervously, “Well it’s not like you can empty the club for us, can you?”

Steve raised an eyebrow. “No, but there’s no need.” He gestured around the little bar-slash-office they were standing in. “We’ve got this whole place to ourselves.”

He took a step closer, his grin downright dangerous. “Come on, Ed. I’ve seen your foot tappin’ all night. I know you like the music. Just one little dance.”

And as the laugh barked out of him, it or maybe the last swig of beer he had, easily helped him drop part of his defences.

“Alright,” Eddie sighed, setting down his drink. “The next song. As long as it’s not a slow one.”

Steve beamed, throwing a hand over his heart. “Yeah, ‘course. Not a slow one.”

Eddie glanced over at him, smiling despite himself, then turned to look out over the dance floor below, watching as the current song wound down.

He looked out over the dance floor downstairs, quickly trying to observe how the average kid danced around here.

But as the piano stabs of the next song kicked in, Eddie felt that the gods themselves were having a wail of a time at his expense.

Baby, let me be your loving’ teddy bear.

Eddie rolled his eyes in defeat, causing Steve to burst out laughing. “It’s almost like they knew you were gonna dance. They got a song just for you, huh?”

Eddie shot him a suspicious look. “For me?”

“Yeah,” Steve smirked, swaying subtly to the beat. “No one ever nicknamed you Teddy?”

Eddie copied Steve’s movements, trying not to think too hard about how easy it felt.

“Not really,” he chuckled. “The nicknames I get aren’t usually that nice.”

He watched his own feet shuffle from side to side, clicking his fingers to the beat, letting himself enjoy it for just a second.

Steve started singing along, and when Eddie looked up at him, he mimed running a comb through the side of his hair, curling his lip just like Elvis.

Eddie had no idea how he managed to keep dancing.

He was too busy staring, completely struck by how damn handsome Steve looked.

Steve was unfairly good-looking, the kind of handsome that made people stop in their tracks, made girls giggle behind their hands and kick their feet, writing about him in their journals at night. The kind that made Eddie fight not to stare.

The dim lighting softened his features, casting shadows along his cheekbones and jaw, making him look like something out of a magazine ad for trouble. His hair, ridiculous in how perfect it always was, gleamed under the light, pomade catching like comet trails streaking through every strand.

If his lips curled into Elvis’s signature smirk were the bait, then his voice was the barbed hook that Eddie couldn’t wriggle off of.

Eddie felt like a deer in headlights, except instead of high beams, it was movie-star-quality, sunshine-flecked hazel eyes, belonging to Steve Harrington and his stupidly perfect face.

His stomach was in a tailspin, and he valiantly tried to focus on the music, not on Steve’s mouth, or his body, or the way he moved so effortlessly, or the fact that he was standing way too damn close.

But once Steve realized he had Eddie’s full attention, he only played up the Elvis impersonation more. His enthusiasm was infectious, and before Eddie knew it, he was doing his version, remembering the moves he’d seen on the big screen when he went to watch Jailhouse Rock , as many times as he could afford.

He knew this song wasn’t from that movie, but the moves were more fun.

Lost in the rhythm, he let himself go, alternating between a knee bend, a half-hip twist, and the occasional precarious balance on the point of his dress shoes. He was mid-spin, grinning, when he looked up.

And Steve had stopped dancing.

He was just watching him, mouth slightly parted, eyebrows raised in what looked a hell of a lot like surprise.

Eddie slowed to a stop, suddenly unsure.

He laughed nervously, glancing away. “Sorry. Got a little carried away.”

The heat from the dancing was creeping into his collar, so he shrugged off his jacket, not wanting to sweat through Johnny’s suit.

As he did, a stray curl slipped loose from under his hat.

He reached up quickly, trying to tuck it back before it fully betrayed him, but the movement only caused more curls to tumble free. Huffing, he turned, searching for a mirror, when he suddenly came face to face with Steve.

Before Eddie could even protest, Steve was already tucking his curls back into place, carefully smoothing the strands back under the hat, his fingertips gentle against Eddie’s forehead.

“So, an Elvis fan, are ya?” Steve asked, his voice lower, softer now.

His fingers brushed a few strands still stuck to Eddie’s brow, tucking them away like it was the most natural thing in the world.

“I knew you’d have some moves,” Steve added, smiling a little. “You like music too much not to.”

“Too much?” Eddie mumbled, trying not to sound as dazed as he felt being this close to Steve.

The way his smile curled, just enough to flash those perfect teeth. How neatly shaved his face was. Those wonderful beauty marks that adorned his skin. How his long, dark eyelashes, unfairly momentarily hid those cocoa honeyed eyes from Eddie’s, as he blinked.

And then, there was the scent of him.

Not just his cologne, but something closer, more subtle. Soap, beer, tobacco, and the faintest trace of lemon that Eddie knew came from him grating the zest earlier that day.

It was a heady potion, and Eddie felt like one more breath of it might be fatal.

He tried to ground himself.

He kept reminding himself how kind Steve had been since he got here. That he was his friend, and he couldn’t mess that up.

There were beautiful girls who dropped into the store all the time, and Steve never gave them a second glance. So what hope would Eddie have?

Because the glaring truth was that Steve wasn’t like him.

Eddie had never met another guy like himself, but he knew he couldn’t be the only one if there was a word for it. Homosexual.

And yet, how would you even find that out?

It wasn’t something you could just ask.

It might be the last question you ever uttered.

Even though he made Eddie so nervous he thought he might combust, he never made him feel wrong. Never made him feel like he had to be less than he was.

Never made him feel weird in a bad way.

He’d never met anyone who made him feel like this in his entire life.

Right from the moment he’d stumbled over the sidewalk, Steve had felt like a familiar stranger. But maybe that was just how Steve was with everyone.

“Nah, not too much, Ed,” Steve murmured, his voice just as quiet as before, low and steady.

“Not too much for me, anyway.”

Eddie took a chance and lifted his eyes to Steve’s, searching for any sign that he was lying. But Steve wasn’t looking at him.

His focus remained on tucking Eddie’s curls away, like it was the most important task in the world.

“You wanna dance to the next song?” Steve asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“I dunno. Don’t wanna ruin Jon’s suit,” Eddie joked, forcing out a laugh.

Maybe it was nerves from the way Steve’s fingertip had just brushed over his temple.

Maybe it was because of how silly he felt after his over-the-top impersonation.

But none of that mattered.

Because all that mattered was the effect it had.

Steve’s smile broadened, and a soft, light laugh fell from his lips, warm against Eddie’s skin.

And it felt like magic.

“The only thing you’d do to anything of that goomba’s is make it better,” Steve grinned, giving his hat one last adjustment.

Then, quieter, almost like he wasn’t sure if he meant to say it aloud.

“I wish somethin’ of mine had fit ya.”

Eddie almost convinced himself he’d imagined it.

“Maybe if I worked hard like you instead of scribbling away, I’d be more your size,” Eddie said, his mouth twisting into an awkward half-smile.

“You know… look better.”

“Not possible,” Steve said quickly with a laugh.

Eddie laughed too, because the thought of him ever having Steve’s physique was ridiculous. He’d have to work as hard as Steve did every day for years to even get close.

“Yeah, you’re right,” Eddie chuckled softly. “Even if I somehow managed to get stronger, I still wouldn’t look as good as you.”

The words left his mouth before he could stop them.

Steve tilted his head slightly toward him, not quite looking at him directly.

“You think I look good, Ed?”

The next song started to play, and Eddie’s heart faltered.

For a moment, he couldn’t answer.

Thankfully, Eydie Gormé’s beautiful voice filled all the spaces around and between them.

In that moment of nervous awkwardness, there was no place Eddie would rather be than suddenly transported from this bar to the moon, just to escape his slip of the tongue.

“Everyone does,” he forced out, straining a smile as he swallowed the growing lump in his throat.

He tried to think of the fastest way home from here. It was probably miles away, but if things went south, there was nothing like a pack of angry guys to awaken your inner track star. He could just keep running until he found a place to hide, then wait it out until the small hours of the morning before sneaking back home.

But then, all that adrenaline to run melted away.

Because Steve’s eyes finally met his.

“That’s not what I asked,” Steve said softly, “I asked if you do.”

Eddie’s tensed muscles turned to pudding.

He was sure he could write an epic grander than The Odyssey, just to describe the way Steve’s eyes changed color depending on the light.

Sometimes, his irises were drowned in golden cosmic clouds, with only a fine spray of homely earth at their center, before converging at the small, dark void, the one he had fallen into the first time they met.

And ever since, he had been unable to escape.

But here, so close in the dim light of the office, Steve’s eyes looked impossibly dark, waiting expectantly for an answer.

Eddie’s mouth opened once, twice, nothing.

Every time he tried to form a word, his thoughts were trampled by a stampede of impossible dreams.

Then, as the strings on the record swelled, his heart exploded.

Steve’s beautiful smile stretched wider, and he gave a slight nod.

“Ya ain’t very good at answering questions tonight.”

Eddie let out an awkward laugh, desperate to look away from the hazardous peril that was Steve’s eyes, but it was far too late.

They had him.

Completely entangled, bewitched, and mesmerized, as Eydie Gormé sang out with her whole heart the words Eddie would die to say and have reciprocated.

In other words, I love you.

And in a stupid moment of bravery, Eddie finally answered a question.

“I’d like to dance again, sure.”

That, at least, he could say with confidence. That was safe.

They had just been goofing around to Elvis, and that had felt good. Relatively safe.

Steve’s chest brushed lightly against Eddie’s arm as he breathed.

“Even if ya don’t like the song?”

The extra contact short-circuited Eddie’s brain entirely, shutting down any quality control between brain and mouth and replacing it with some kind of highly polished playground slide. Reckless, and unstoppable. Just like his heart would be in its truest form.

“I’m sure I’ll like it if I’m with you,” Eddie said a little too dreamily.

His stomach plummeted immediately, panic kicking in a second too late.

“I mean-” he rushed to backpedal, “that last one was fun, right?”

Steve blinked at him a few times, like he was trying to process something.

“Yeah… yeah, it was, wasn’t it?”

He took a step back, glancing out onto the dance floor.

“Um, stay right here, okay? I’m gonna get us some proper drinks. Made by the bartender, yeah?”

Before Eddie could stop him, Steve was already out the door, thundering down the steel stairs while shrugging his jacket back on, disappearing out of sight.

Eddie was left alone, listening to the final notes of the song, finishing off his beer with an excited spin.

He was certain he might have to change his genre from sci-fi to romance, because that moment was going to be etched into his brain forever.

Even though he knew it could ultimately go nowhere, his heart was still so full it could burst.

He sang along loudly, grinning as the lyrics wrapped around him like a dream.

A dream with wide eyes of innocence that knew nothing of the word impossible.

Fill my heart with song,

And let me sing forever more

The door swung open hard, booted in with too much force, and Eddie jumped out of his skin, nearly dropping his empty beer bottle. He barely managed to catch it before it crashed to the floor, his heart hammering.

His fearful eyes darted to the doorway, only to find Steve standing there, holding two martini glasses, liquid sloshing dangerously close to the rim.

A few drops spilled over, racing around the delicate glass edges, and Steve quietly cursed, setting the drinks down before grabbing a napkin to blot at the splashes on his jacket. With a sigh, he slipped the jacket off and hung it over a chair, with his back to Eddie, smoothing a hand over his hair as he let out a slow breath.

Eddie watched him, noticing the slight shift in his energy.

Maybe staying up here too long had gotten Steve into some kind of trouble, with his friends, or maybe even his uncle. He didn’t look quite as relaxed as he had before.

Or maybe he was just annoyed about the suit.

Steve picked up the drinks again and walked over, extending one toward Eddie.

Eddie took it, carefully holding the thin glass stem, inspecting its odd, conical shape. The orangish translucent liquid inside balanced a few delicate slices of fruit on its surface.

“Figs?” Eddie asked, lifting the drink closer to his eyes, sniffing it curiously.

“Yeah,” Steve confirmed, watching him with a small smile.

Eddie took another whiff and hummed in recognition. “Oh smells kinda like that citrusy vanilla filling thing, like in the cannoli you make.”

Steve’s smile broadened, radiant, and Eddie swore not even the sun could warm him the way that smile did.

“Huh. I like those,” Eddie said, taking a sip.

Steve did the same, but kept watching him as they drank.

“I know,” Steve said, smacking his lips as he set his drink down.

Eddie mirrored him, but a flicker of anxiety crept in. What did that mean? "I know?"

He laughed nervously, trying to shake it off. “What a funny coincidence, huh? That they have a drink like that here?” His fingers found a small loose thread in his pocket, twisting it between them. But fresh fear flooded him. Did Steve think he was lying? That he’d been pretending he didn’t go out, just because of this ridiculously specific coincidence? The feeling of running resurfaced sharply, his mind already mapping the exits.

He had never been here before. Never been to any club, anywhere, ever.

Steve’s expression shifted slightly, confusion flickering across his face before he smirked, slipping his hands into his pockets as he took a step closer.

“Weird name, too,” he said casually.

“Uh. Really?” Eddie edged back instinctively.

“Yeah,” Steve continued, completely deadpan.

“It’s a Munsoni.”

Eddie froze.

“Uh, Steve, I swear this is just a weird coincidence,” he blurted, his voice rising in pitch. “I’ve never been here. Or anywhere like this, honestly.”

His fingers nervously tapped against his leg, heart hammering.

“I know,” Steve repeated, his smile widening, eyes flicking between Eddie and the glass.

Eddie’s eyes scanned the floor, as if searching through a cascade of jigsaw pieces that had just fallen from the sky onto him. His mind frantically pieced the puzzle together, and as the final one snapped into place, his gaze lifted to Steve’s.

“Did you-”

He pointed between himself, Steve, and the glasses, unable to articulate the revelation.

Steve shoved his hands deeper into his pockets, his shoulders hitching up in an adorably squeezed shrug. One Eddie had never seen him do before.

“I mighta… supplied the joint with a few extra things for this evening,” Steve admitted, rocking on his heels. “When you said you’d come.”

“You made me my own drink?” Eddie asked, disbelief cracking through his voice.

Steve, oddly enough, ducked his head, kicking at the floor a little before looking back up at him.

“Is that okay?” he asked quietly, wrapping an arm around himself.

Eddie watched him for a few seconds, stunned.

Steve had boyish charm. He was playful, effortlessly confident, but he was also a man, toughened by the world, no doubt. And yet, the way he asked if that was okay, his voice so soft, couldn’t have been filled with more innocence if he’d tried.

Eddie snatched up his drink and downed it like it was the first liquid he’d seen after crossing a desert for forty days and nights.

Steve’s arm dropped from guarding himself as he laughed, reaching out to grasp Eddie’s arm.

“Hey, easy there. Easy. That ain’t beer! It’s vodka an’ vermouth.”

Steve’s concerned eyes met Eddie’s, who was now visibly struggling against the burn of the alcohol he wasn’t accustomed to.

“I know,” Eddie gasped, coughing slightly before placing a steadying hand on Steve’s shoulder, laughing along with him.

“You can’t get outta a dance with me that easy, Ed,” Steve smirked.

He didn’t move his hand.

And he didn’t move Eddie’s, either.

Instead, with his free hand, he casually took Eddie’s drink and set it down.

Eddie heard the soft brush of drums and the hush of backing vocals filling the air before Paul Anka’s voice resonated through the very bricks of the building, and through his very bones.

Requesting something that Eddie would give anything for.

Put your head on my shoulder.

Eddie looked down through the one-way window, watching as couples wrapped themselves around each other, swaying slowly to the beat.

He wondered if there would ever be a place in the world where he could be one of them. If the day would finally come when he’d have feelings for a girl and be like every other normal guy.

Some of the books he’d read said there were treatments for people like him. Ways to make him better. To make him normal.

His chest felt tight as he let out a deep sigh.

Then he felt a tap on his shoulder.

He turned.

And saw the unbelievable.

For a split second, he thought maybe downing that cocktail too fast had knocked him out cold, because Steve’s hand was on his arm. His other hand was reaching toward him. Palm up. Like he was asking him to dance.

But he couldn’t be. Could he?

Eddie froze, motionless except for the slow rise and fall of his chest, his brain desperately trying to process the moment. His mouth barely moved when he spoke.

“Am I dreaming?” he murmured, voice barely above a whisper.

Steve tilted his head, that same charming smile playing at his lips. The one he used when he was trying to convince Eddie to try anything.

“If you were,” he muttered, his voice warm and steady, “Would ya dance with me?”

Eddie, trembling, just about managed to nod.

“Then let’s say you are,” Steve said, extending his hand further toward him.

Eddie’s eyes darted between Steve’s hand and his soft gaze, his heart pounding so hard he was certain he might drop dead right there. Some poor drunk who fell asleep at a club and never woke up.

Gingerly, he reached out and placed his shaking hand in Steve’s.

His whole body vibrated with adrenaline, and he was sure it was fear. Fear that something dreadful was going to happen any minute. That someone would throw a bucket of water in his face and wake him up.

But nothing came.

No jeers. No cruel laughter.

Only Steve.

Steve drew him in closer, clasping their joined hands between them. His other hand pressed gently against the middle of Eddie’s back.

Steve smiled at him, giving a small, encouraging nod.

Eddie, feeling like he was sleepwalking through something impossible, hesitated only a second before moving his arm over Steve’s, his fingers settling at the base of his neck.

“You okay?” Steve asked gently as he swayed them slowly.

“No, not really. I’m scared to death,” Eddie half-laughed, his breath shaky.

“Of me?” Steve asked, concerned.

Eddie looked at him, then down at their joined hands. He could feel the warmth radiating from Steve’s palm on his back, soothing, steadying. And beneath his fingers, the short hairs at the nape of Steve’s neck, soft against his touch.

That’s when he realized.

“No,” Eddie murmured. “I’m scared because… because I’m not scared of you.”

Steve’s smile softened.

“Good,” he said. “You never gotta be scared around me. I’m gonna take good care of ya.”

Eddie could hear the smile in his voice. He dared a quick glance at it, and just like that, the spell it always seemed to cast over him worked its magic. The trembling in his body stilled.

He moved closer, letting himself bask in the warmth between them, his fingers cautiously threading through the short hair at Steve’s nape. Steve’s hands tightened slightly for just a second.

“You okay?” Eddie asked, barely above a whisper.

“Yeah. I mean… fucking terrified too, but also? Best moment of my life so far.”

“Of me?” Eddie teased, a small smirk tugging at his lips.

“Yeah,” Steve admitted with a nervous laugh.

Eddie froze for half a second. It must have been the first time he’d ever heard Steve sound even remotely anxious, because it didn’t sound like him at all.

“This is my dream, right?” Eddie said softly. “You’ve got nothing to be afraid of. I’ll keep you safe here.”

Something in him felt lighter, more sure of itself.

So he slid his arm further around Steve’s waist, pulled him closer, and let his cheek rest against his shoulder. Unlike reality, where they were the same height, here, Eddie could tilt his head and look up at him dreamily.

Steve still hadn’t looked at him directly.

“Ya promise? For always?” he asked, their slow steps barely disturbing the wooden floor.

Eddie smiled, rubbing soothing circles across Steve’s back.

“Until the seas run dry and the stars fall out of the sky to go home for good,” he murmured.

Steve’s eyes fluttered shut for a moment, then another, almost like he was drifting off to sleep.

Wouldn’t that be funny? Falling asleep in someone else’s dream.

“Do you know where they live?” Eddie asked quietly. “The stars?”

Steve hummed.

“Um… well, I thought they lived in the sky,” he said, brow furrowing. “But ya can’t go home if you’re already at home, right? I dunno where they go in the day.”

Eddie’s grin widened.

“Sure you do,” he said, gazing up at him, “They’re in your eyes.”

Steve rolled his eyes, but Eddie caught the way his cheeks flushed faintly under the soft glow of the lights.

Eddie laughed, and Steve tried to fight his own smile, failing miserably.

“Is this what I’m gonna get now?” Steve grumbled playfully. “Pick-up lines?”

Eddie saw right through him. Saw the way his mouth betrayed him, the corners twitching up despite his best efforts. And in the glow of the dim lights, as they swayed to the music, Eddie watched the blush rise on Steve’s face.

And God help him, he knew he was in so much trouble, if he was sleep talking right now.

Put your lips next to my lips.

The singer crooned, and Eddie straightened up, preparing, almost instinctively, to do exactly that.

He stood at his full height, his face just slightly turned, a fraction to the right, not quite looking at Steve head-on. He kept that exact distance as they danced and waited.

It took a few full turns before Steve finally looked back at him. By then, Eddie could already feel the perspiration between their palms.

“Eddie?” Steve asked softly. “Can I ask ya a favor?”

Eddie barely hesitated.

“Anything for you,” he said, no longer filtering a single thing he wanted to say.

Steve let go of him, reaching up to the peak of Eddie’s hat. Slowly, carefully, he lifted it off. Then, with steady hands and quiet consideration, he removed the pins, one by one, and placed them in the hat. Eddie barely breathed as Steve set it down on a chair.

And then, with nothing left holding it back, he gave his head a small shake, letting his dark waves and curls tumble free.

Steve stared. Then, with a slow blink and a devastating half-smile, he whispered, “Thank you.”

Eddie wasn’t sure what he was thanking him for, but something about the way he said it made his stomach flip. Just as gently as before, Steve took him back into his strong arms. Back exactly as they were. Except this time, when their eyes met, Steve didn’t look away. Not once.

As the song faded out and another soft melody took its place, Steve spoke quietly.

“This is probably the last song, y’know?”

“It is?” Eddie asked, voice tinged with disappointment, “Does that mean I’ll wake up?”

Steve’s grip tightened just slightly.

“God, I hope not,” he breathed, tilting his face just a little more toward Eddie, just as a swell of strings filled the air and Nat King Cole’s voice melted through the room.

When I fall in love, it will be forever

Eddie swallowed hard, his throat tight.

He thought he really ought to get that cocktail recipe, because this was the most vivid, most intoxicating, most impossible dream he’d ever had.

Everything felt real, but it couldn’t possibly be, there is no way this is happening.

Steve shifted their hands, gently guiding both of Eddie’s arms around his waist before draping his own over Eddie’s shoulders. His fingers slid into Eddie’s hair, brushing through it softly, absentmindedly, like he was memorizing the feel of it.

Eddie adored how close they were like this. Barely room for light to slip between them.

He gazed, sleepy and lost, into Steve’s beautiful eyes, but something else pulled at the edges of his mind. The song.

It was like he’d stepped into a movie, into some achingly romantic scene, where the lighting was perfect and the world had slowed just for them. The camera was zooming in as the background characters were dancing elegantly out of frame.

Except, he could hear the soundtrack. The lyrics didn’t just fill the room, they wrapped around him, sinking into his bones, threading through his thoughts, whispering that forever love was the only kind worth taking a chance on.

And though the drunken dream was pure fiction. That was exactly how he felt.

And the moment that I feel that

You feel that way too

Is when I fall in love with you

Steve’s lashes fluttered, his gaze holding Eddie’s in something soft, endless, impossible. He was so beautiful. Even more so in this dream, where everything felt like it had been made just for him.

And even though Eddie had close to no idea what he was doing. He felt like this was that moment. The moment he’d been waiting for his entire life.

Slowly, he leaned forward, pressing their foreheads together as they swayed in close, their movements slow and tender. Their noses brushed, a whisper of contact, soft as a secret.

Eddie’s pulse thundered in his ears.

“Steve,” he whispered, his voice barely holding together, “May I kiss you?”

Steve exhaled, his breath warm between them.

“God, yeah,” he answered quickly, breathlessly.

And without another second of hesitation Eddie closed the space between them.

He tilted his jaw and pressed their lips together, stilling completely as if the world had stopped turning, and for a moment he hoped he could stay like this forever.

A million fireworks went off inside him, bright and blinding, as Steve’s hands came up, surrounding his face, holding him steady.

Their lips moved together, finding them perfectly slotting together, like they had been made to do so, the perfect rhythm, the perfect dream come to life.

Eddie had never felt so alive.

Eddie felt the warmth of Steve’s lips lingering on his own, his pulse still thundering as they began to sway together again. He didn’t want to pull away. Didn’t want to change anything. Didn’t want to risk breaking the spell.

Steve smiled against his mouth, a quiet, breathy laugh slipping out.

Eddie barely had time to process it before Steve suddenly stepped back. He stumbled forward slightly, lips still puckered, chasing after Steve.

Which only made Steve’s laugh explode into something bright and delighted.

Eddie blinked, disoriented, as Steve reached for something behind him.

He didn’t leave Eddie waiting for long, though. Within moments, he was back, holding out the hat and pins like some kind of peace offering.

Eddie pouted like a toddler who’d just had his favorite toy snatched away and Steve’s grin only grew wider.

“Don’t ya wanna get out of here?” he asked.

“Already?” Eddie whined, taking a section of his hair and haphazardly pinning it up.

Before he could react, Steve leaned in and pressed a quick peck to his cheek.

Eddie froze for a second, his mouth half-open, before quickly securing another pin. Another kiss.

His breath hitched, and he fumbled slightly with the next pin. Steve was watching him closely.

“Yeah, unless you wanna stay in this stuffy office, with my uncle and his cronies?” Steve teased, laughing.

Eddie frowned, grumbling as he reached for another pin.

“This isn’t how the dream is supposed to go.”

“Oh no?” Steve tilted his head, amused. “Just how’s it supposed to go, then?”

He shook the hat at him, waiting. Eddie begrudgingly secured another section of hair.

Another peck on the cheek.

Eddie’s eyes narrowed as Steve flashed an innocent smile.

“Ohhhhh,” Eddie hummed knowingly, a mischievous giggle bubbling up.

With lightning speed, he snatched up the remaining pins, fixing his hair so quickly it was a miracle none of them stabbed his scalp.

Pin. Kiss.

Pin…

Eddie spun, trying to catch Steve’s next peck on the cheek right on the lips, and missed.

Missed again, because Steve was too damn quick.

Eddie let out a dramatic groan, jamming his hat onto his head in defeat. Steve, meanwhile, had to hold his sides, laughing so hard he nearly doubled over.

Just as Eddie settled his hat back onto his head, the door was swung open. Eddie’s smile flickered, his body instinctively tensing as his eyes snapped to the figure standing in the doorway.

Steve’s uncle, Vito.

The easy smile he turned around to greet them with vanished, or at least, it faded into something unreadable. His eyes flicked between them both, taking in the scene.

Then, without a word, he shut the door behind him, and clicked the lock in place.

Eddie went rigid.

There was no anger, no tension, but something about the way Steve’s uncle looked him over, a quick, assessing glance, made his stomach tighten.

“Everything okay, Stefano?” his uncle asked, his voice even, steady as he placed a firm hand on Steve’s shoulder.

Eddie felt his pulse in his throat. Was he about to be thrown out? Or worse?

Steve’s face didn’t waver, but for a split second, his lips twitched like he was holding something back. Then he smiled.

“Yeah,” Steve said, his voice light, warm, certain, “Better.”

His eyes flicked to Eddie, “The best, ya know?”

And just like that his uncle’s entire expression shifted.

The seriousness vanished in an instant, replaced by something brighter, bigger, full of joy. His arm shot across Steve’s shoulders, pulling him in for a tight, crushing hug. Then, in rapid succession, he ruffled Steve’s hair and kissed him on top of the head so many times Eddie lost count.

“How ‘bout that, huh?” His uncle’s grin stretched wide, shaking his head in disbelief, “Unbelievable! What a fuckin’ day!” He gave Steve a playful shove, his serious entrance completely forgotten.

“Geroffame, you old sap. You’re embarrassing me,” Steve groaned, gesturing at Eddie like he was some kind of witness to a crime.

Eddie, who still had no idea what was going on, just stared back, completely bewildered. But then again dreams could be weird like that.

Steve’s uncle suddenly turned his attention to Eddie.

“Don’t think I fuggottabout you, buddy.”

He beckoned him over with a wave, and Eddie hesitantly took a few tentative steps forward, only to be yanked into a tight squeeze under his other arm.

Despite the manhandling, Eddie couldn’t help but smile over at Steve, and when their eyes met again, something about Steve’s expression made a swarm of butterflies take flight in Eddie’s stomach.

“I tell ya,” Eddie laughed breathlessly, “this is the most amazing and strangest dream I’ve ever had.”

His laugh was promptly cut off when his uncle’s hand came down hard on his back, nearly knocking the wind out of him.

“Well, ain’t that the most adorable thing I ever heard?” His uncle’s booming laughter shook the room, “This guy thinks he’s dreaming!”

Eddie’s stomach dropped.

“Wait…I’m not…?”

His thoughts scrambled, words tripping over themselves as he turned back to Steve.

“But you said-”

His mouth opened and closed, completely unable to put together a whole sentence as the realization slammed into him like a freight train. This isn’t a dream.

“I’m not…” Eddie whispered, almost afraid to believe it.

Steve simply shook his head, that sweet, knowing smile softening his whole face.

And then the excitement went off inside Eddie like a bottle rocket.

Eddie was yelling, jumping up and down with Steve’s uncle like the two of them had just won the World Series all by themselves.

This was real. Was it real?

“Jesus, pinch me already!” he shouted, wide-eyed, grabbing Steve’s uncle by the shoulders and shaking him in sheer disbelief. His uncle barked out a laugh, and obliged.

Eddie yelped as a sharp pinch landed on his arm. He sucked in a breath, the pain grounding him, and began taking deeper exhales, each one calming him little by little until his grip on Steve’s uncle loosened.

His racing mind replayed everything that had happened since he’d gulped down that cocktail.

Then instinctively he turned back to Steve. His breath shuddered, his chest tight again, but this time, not with fear, but with something deep, overwhelming, too much to contain.

He slowly slipped out of Vito’s embrace, his feet moving of their own accord as he stepped toward Steve. The closer he got, the more his uncle seemed to disappear completely. It was just them, once again. A metaphorical vignette closing around them.

Eddie reached out first, tentatively, his fingers brushing Steve’s before slipping into his grasp. To his delight, Steve accepted immediately. That simple, easy touch sent electricity coursing through him.

For the first time in his life, Eddie wasn’t afraid to love.

Charged with the impossible reality of his dreams coming true, all his inhibitions melted away.

Without thinking, he lifted his free hand to cup Steve’s face, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath his palm, pulled him closer and pressed a soft, chaste kiss to his lips.

His uncle’s booming laughter cut through the moment.

“Che diavolo! You said this guy was shy!”

Eddie barely heard him. He was getting lost in Steve’s eyes, which held the same stunned, breathless realisation.

“He was,” Steve murmured, still searching Eddie’s face. For half a second, Eddie worried he’d been too forward, until Steve’s lips curved into a smile.

“But I’m glad he’s not anymore,” Steve added pulling him into his arms.

“Okay, boys. I am overjoyed for you both, truly, but we gotta go over some rules, okay?”

Eddie felt the sudden coldness of a bottle pressed against his arm, startling him from his thoughts. He looked up as Steve’s uncle gestured toward his desk.

It was immaculate, but something about it felt, weighty. The wood was dark and polished, the kind that looked too expensive for just a nightclub office.

There were very few personal items. No family photos, no clutter, just a thick, leather-bound ledger, a locked filing cabinet, and a corded phone with multiple lines.

Eddie had never been in an office like this before, but something about it made him feel like important conversations happened here.

Vito sat on one side of the desk, while he and Steve took seats on the other. Their hands were still clasped together, their free hands holding celebratory beers.

Steve’s uncle raised his bottle, “Salut!”

Eddie quickly followed Steve’s lead, mirroring him as they raised their bottles and took a sip.

Vito barely drank before setting his aside, his fingers lacing together as he leaned forward. It was a subtle movement, but it made Eddie feel like a kid getting called into the principal’s office.

“Okay. So from your reaction, I’m guessing this wasn’t clear to you before.”

Vito’s sharp gaze landed on him, unblinking, unreadable.

“But we all know how special Steve is. We accept him and love him just as he is. But we also know the wider world don’t.”

Eddie felt a slight squeeze on his hand, and he instinctively tightened his own around Steve’s.

“I been thinking on it since Steve told me about you, and this is what I decided.” Vito’s voice was calm, but absolute, as he leaned back, the slight shift making it clear he had already made up his mind.

“When I’m in town, you two, and I’ll even extend that to your trusted friends and Robertina, you can have this space.”

He gestured around them, like the entire second floor of the club belonged to them.

“This is yours. Anytime I’m here, you can come up here and be safe. But-,” He lifted a finger, “When I am not here, you do not come here. Got it?”

Eddie nodded quickly, but Vito wasn’t done.

“Or go anywhere else. Stay at home, sit on the roof, stay outta sight. Gottit?”

He looked between them, waiting for a verbal answer.

“Got it,” Steve said first, with an easy nod.

“Got it,” Eddie echoed, though his mind was still spinning. He couldn’t stop thinking about when Steve might have mentioned his intentions towards him to his Uncle.

“Now, Edward,” He made a face and tried again, “Ed. I can call you that, yeah?”

Vito’s voice shifted slightly, less like an authoritative club owner and more like a man about to say something very personal.

Eddie nodded quickly. “Yeah, of course.”

Vito gave a small nod in return.

“Steve asked me not to scare you off with any speeches, ”His lips twitched like that amused him, “And honestly, it feels a little unnecessary, judging from your reaction.”

Eddie swallowed, but didn’t argue.

Vito’s expression softened, just slightly.

“But I ask you this.”

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk, and for the first time, Eddie felt like he was really looking at him.

“As an uncle who cares deeply about his nephew, like he’s my own son.” Eddie’s gut clenched at that, because for the first time since stepping into this room, he wasn’t thinking about Steve. He was thinking about Wayne.

His Uncle Wayne, who had taken him in when he was just a kid.

Wayne, who worked long hours, often exhausted but never too tired to ask Eddie about his day.

Wayne, who, no matter how wild Eddie had been as a teenager, never once turned his back on him.

Wayne, who showed his love not with words, but with quiet, unwavering presence.

Wayne, who had given him a home.

Wayne, who had been his safe place.

And now here was Vito, sitting across from him, speaking about Steve with that same fierce protectiveness, but in a way that felt completely different.

Wayne was a quiet kind of strong, the kind of man who just kept showing up, no matter what.

Vito was a presence, a force of nature. He didn’t just show up, he made sure people knew he was there.

He thought for a moment they would get along famously, because in the end, they were both just men trying to protect the boys they’d raised. Eddie suddenly felt the weight of that responsibility.

Whatever Vito was about to say next, Eddie was ready to listen.

“Don’t do anything stupid. Keep my boy safe. Follow the rules.”

Vito’s voice was calm, measured, but absolute.

“Don’t flaunt this around. Too many jealous people out there, yeah?”

He hesitated.

Eddie caught the way his fist clenched, the way his jaw tensed as if he were biting something back.

Vito closed his eyes, took a slow breath, looked to be counting, then turned to Steve.

Steve nodded, a silent confirmation.

Only then did Vito look back at Eddie, his smile practiced, careful.

“And if,” The words seemed heavier, like they took effort to say, “If it don’t work out, I’m begging you to keep your trap shut about my boy.”

The unspoken threat lingered in the air. Eddie got it. Loud and clear. But honestly? It wasn’t necessary.

“I swear, I’ve got no intention of hurting anyone,” Eddie said, his voice steady, certain, “And if Steve changes his mind, no one needs to worry about me saying anything.”

His grip tightened in Steve’s.

“I know how hard it is to survive in the world when you’re like us,” he continued, voice tinged with something deeper, something lived, “I know firsthand how cruel people can be. I never want Steve to know that. Not a single day in his life.”

Steve’s hand squeezed his in return, and Vito’s forced smile melted into something real.

“Okay, good.”

He exhaled, shaking off the weight of the conversation.

“Now I gotta let these assholes in, ‘cause I left ‘em queuin’ on da stairs, and they ain’t smart enough to go elsewhere.”

His voice returned to something lighter, almost amused.

“You need my driver to drop yous home? Or someplace else?”

“Nah, it’s late. Ma will be worried,” Steve admitted, though his voice carried a hint of disappointment, “I brought the car anyway.”

Vito waved a dismissive hand.

“Let me deal with your Ma, okay?” Then he turned to Eddie, “Ed, what about your folks?”

“It’s just my Mama,” Eddie said with a small shrug, “As long as I’m back by sunrise, she won’t worry.”

Steve grinned. “Eddie’s Ma is Ms. Munson.”

Vito’s eyebrows shot up.

“No shit!” He let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. “I like her. Asks no questions, gets the job done.”

He leaned back, crossing his arms.

“A lotta guys here hired her after they saw the wall work she did for us downstairs. Preferred a woman doing odd jobs around their homes rather than some strange guy alone with their wives, ya know? How’d she get into all that?”

“Dunno,” Eddie admitted, “I haven’t lived with her in over ten years. She moved here alone. People back home wouldn’t give her a chance.”

He rubbed the back of his neck.

“She’s a mechanic, really. Learned it from her dad, ” His voice softened slightly, “When my old man up and left us, she tried to make enough to support us, but… it wasn’t enough.”

Eddie sighed, voice dropping, “She still sent money back for me, though. Gifts when she could.” A pause. “I lived with my uncle.”

Vito studied him for a beat. He let out a low hum, his lips pressing into something like a half-shrug of a smile, barely there but not unkind. Like he got it. Like he’d seen it before.

“And do they know ‘bout your, uh… preferences? ‘Bout Steve?”

“My mom does, for sure,” Eddie admitted, “Think I talked her ear off about you,” he added with a bashful grin toward Steve, “But I just thought we were… y’know, just friends.”

Steve smirked, amused, but stayed quiet.

“My Uncle knows about me. I sent him a letter about meeting Steve here, but,” He exhaled, shaking his head slightly, “Back home, you don’t talk about this kinda stuff.” His voice dropped lower, more serious, “Else you end up in a pretty bad state.”

Vito exhaled, his features still, revealing nothing, before he nodded.

“Well, you stick to our rules, and you won’t have to worry about none of that here,” he said firmly, “Not on my watch.”

There was a quiet moment, something final in his words. A promise.

Then, Vito clapped his hands together. “Now, I think I can get Carlo to drive anyone home who needs a ride, or,” he smirked slightly, “you guys can take the rest of the night downstairs in the booths if you want?”

Steve shook his head.

“Thank you, Zio, but I got an early start at the restaurant tomorrow,” he said, sending a beaming look at Eddie, “They got me on sweets, and I gotta prep early.”

Vito’s brow lifted slightly as he glanced between them again.

“You got Steve a job at that fancy place?” he asked, almost sounding impressed. “Damn. They only ever like to take my money there.”

Eddie shook his head quickly, laughing.

“No, not at all. I’m just covering for Steve at the store so he can go work there.” His grin widened as he turned to look at Steve, “He got the job all by himself.”

Steve’s face lit up, and Eddie couldn’t help but beam right back, completely captivated.

Vito eyed Eddie, amused. “Ain’t you a writer?”

Eddie shrugged, his smile irrepressible.

“Yeah,” he admitted, voice turning softer, “but I can write anytime.”

His fingers brushed lightly over Steve’s knuckles.

“Everyone’s gotta have a chance to chase their dream, right?”

He could feel Steve looking at him, but he didn’t dare meet those hazel eyes just yet. Not unless he wanted to get completely lost again.

“And I know Steve’s not gonna be there too long before he’s branching out on his own,” Eddie continued, voice dreamy now, “Back at the store, but with all his own pastries and desserts.”

Finally, Eddie glanced over at Steve, caught in the warmth of his smile. He let out a short laugh, shaking his head at himself.

Vito watched them for a beat, something complicated flickering over his face. Then, suddenly, he cleared his throat and smacked his hands down on the desk. The sharp sound made Eddie jump.

“Okay then, lovebirds, off you fly.” He waved them off gruffly, masking whatever emotion had just threatened to break through, “And let those dumb-dumbs in on your way out, will ya?”

Steve grinned, shaking his head.

Eddie let out a quiet huff of laughter, still recovering from the moment that nearly was.

They stood, shaking hands with Vito, but before Eddie could pull away, he was yanked forward over the desk into a tight hug. For a second, he froze, startled by the strength of it, but then, without thinking, he patted Vito’s back in return.

Vito released him quickly, turning to Steve, who was already bracing for it. Another hug, a ruffle of hair, and a kiss to the top of his head, and then, a firm pat and kiss on each of his cheeks.

“Be good, Stefano.”

Steve nodded, eyes a little brighter than before.

As they collected their jackets, Eddie and Steve instinctively reached for each other’s hands again, only to pause, realising they had to let go in order to open the door. Their fingers slipped apart reluctantly.

They descended the stairs, the low hum of the club growing louder with each step. It was strange, knowing what had changed up there, but stepping back into a world that had no idea.

Once they gathered up the others and made their way to Steve’s car, Eddie barely had time to breathe before the knowing smiles started.

Nancy’s smirk.

Robin’s shit-eating grin.

Hellfire’s deeply approving nods.

Dustin’s absolute glee.

Steve just shook his head fondly and opened the passenger door.

“C’mon, Ed.”

Eddie barely had the door shut before Steve reached for his hand again, and held it all the way home.

"So, everyone knows about you? Well, your... preferences, I mean?"

Eddie lay wrapped up in one of Steve’s long winter coats, stretched out on the rooftop of Harrington’s, staring up at the night sky. His hand rested comfortably in Steve’s, their thumbs brushing lightly over each other’s skin.

"Anyone that needs to know, yeah," Steve said, adjusting the cushion under his head. "And anyone that gossips about it? They find out real quick not to. My uncle doesn’t like it. Says it’s nobody’s business but my own."

Eddie huffed a quiet laugh through his nose.

"So, it was literally just me that had no idea, huh?"

"Yeah," Steve chuckled, and Eddie could hear the huge smile in his voice.

"The only person I was really eager to know my business."

Eddie's heart beat harder.

"Okay, but... you knew I was, you know... into guys?" Eddie asked, his voice quieter now.

"No."

Steve turned his head toward him, his voice soft but sure.

"I knew from your mom that you sometimes had trouble at home, and it kinda sounded like me. I wondered, for a time. But honestly, I didn’t know, or care, if you liked guys,” He shrugged slightly, "I just wanted you to like me."

Eddie’s stomach somersaulted.

"And the way you looked at me that first day we met, I thought you might," Steve continued. "But I wasn’t sure if it was because you were feeling sick or whatever."

Eddie laughed in disbelief, turning on his pillow to look at him, "You thought I might not like you? Have you met you?"

"You're so good at that," Steve said with a small shake of his head.

"Good at what?"

"You didn’t say, ‘Have you seen you.’"

Steve's eyes flicked briefly to Eddie's lips, then back up to meet his.

Eddie frowned slightly.

"I don’t get it. I mean, you’re really good-looking, Steve. There’s no denying that, I just-"

"Exactly!" Steve grinned. "You like me. Not just how I look." He shot Eddie a playful look, "I mean, you’d be a fool not to."

Eddie rolled his eyes dramatically, flopping back onto the cushion, "Ah, yes. Well, obviously, that’s a given."

Steve grinned, shifting closer.

"And how could I not fall for the layers of you? You’re like a perfect lasagna."

Eddie snorted, turning his head back toward him.

"A las-what now?"

"Oh, Jesus, Eddie, I can't believe you don’t-"

"I'm kidding!" Eddie grinned. "I know what that is. So, you think I’m a delicious, saucy, meaty dish, huh?"

Steve let out a loud laugh, covering his mouth as a deep blush spread across his cheeks.

"No!" he said, swatting Eddie’s arm. Then, almost as an afterthought, "I mean... yes."

Eddie smirked, triumphant.

Steve's fingers drifted absently to the buttons on Eddie’s coat, fiddling with them.

"I just meant... you have all these layers," Steve huffed out a breath, "Those beautiful eyes... the way you fell into my arms... how funny you are, how smart you are, well, in academics, anyway."

Steve’s grin turned mischievous.

Eddie scoffed.

"Alright, alright, I get it. I wasn’t smart enough to know the heartthrob of Little Italy was into me? Okay, geez, give me a break!" He laughed, moving his hand to intertwine his fingers with Steve’s, stilling them against the coat.

Steve just smiled, "Then, of course, you were so sweet, caring, thoughtful..." He exhaled slowly, "And when I saw your hair— how good you looked in that suit? Eddie, I nearly died. Seriously."

Eddie flushed, but laughed, "Okay, so then... why were you sneaking off with Nancy all night?"

"Uh..." Steve scratched the back of his head, "Because we were planning when I might make a move. But I kept chickening out."

Eddie raised an eyebrow.

"That closet situation kinda pushed me, though," Steve admitted sheepishly, "I didn’t mean for us to get locked in, though. I’m sorry about that, Eddie."

He looked up at him, the apology genuine in his eyes.

Eddie waved a hand.

"Ah, don’t worry about that. Worked out okay in the end."

"Yeah, well... after that, I thought if I didn’t do something, I might just explode, you know?" Steve sighed, "And I knew the safest place was at my uncle’s, upstairs."

Eddie frowned.

"So... why didn’t you take us all up there first?"

Steve looked sheepish.

There was a pause before his eyebrows pinched together and he made a chicken noise.

Eddie burst out laughing.

"So you made me sit there, watching you dance and flirt with all those girls, at the store, at the dance, because you were too chicken? Is that what you’re telling me?"

"Yeah... kinda," Steve honestly replied with an awkward but still charming smile.

Eddie shook his head, still laughing.

"Well, I was scared, you know?" Steve admitted, "Once I did something, it would be done. And I’d either get everything, or lose everything. No in-between. It was terrifying."

Eddie’s laughter softened.

Steve let out a breath, "But, you know... it doesn’t hurt for me to flirt with customers. Or girls at the dance. Keeps people off my back." Then, more seriously, "But I won’t do that no more if it upsets you, baby. I never wanna do that."

Eddie’s eyebrows lifted slightly. "Baby?" he repeated, grinning.

Steve ducked his head, suddenly shy.

"Yeah… is that okay?" he asked, squeezing Eddie’s hand a little tighter.

Eddie beamed, dimples punctuating his grin, "Sure is, Sweetheart."

Steve bit his lip at the pet name.

"And I don’t mind the girl stuff," Eddie added, "Not now, I know. Now you’re mine."

Steve’s eyes went wide, then his whole body seemed to go boneless in the big coat.

Eddie had never seen anything so adorable.

"I like that, Eddie." Steve’s voice was soft. Certain. "Being yours."

Eddie’s heart skipped. "Me too," His voice almost cracked, "Being yours, I mean."

Steve swallowed hard, "I wonder if there are any shooting stars out tonight," he murmured. "So we can make a wish?"

Eddie wiggled closer, his hand trailing up Steve’s arm slowly. His eyes followed the movement until his fingers brushed against Steve’s cheek.

"I don’t need to, " Eddie whispered, "I got mine right here."

Then, cautiously, softly, sweetly, he leaned in, and kissed Steve again, under the safe cover of night.

Above them, the night stretched wide and endless, stars winking in quiet approval.

Steve’s lips were soft, warm, and certain against Eddie’s, like he’d been waiting for this his whole life. Eddie smiled into the kiss, breath hitching as Steve pulled him in closer, deeper.

The cold of the rooftop, the world below, everything else ceased to matter.

Just Steve. Just this.

When they finally broke apart, their foreheads resting together, Steve let out a breathless laugh, “Okay, you’re way too good at that.”

Eddie grinned, tilting his head smugly. “Yeah? You falling for me all over again?”

Steve hummed, squeezing his hand, “Maybe,” he murmured.

Eddie sighed dramatically, rolling onto his back and pulling Steve along with him.

“Well, I got all the time in the world for you to figure it out,” Steve huffed a laugh, snuggling closer, their hands tangling together over Eddie’s chest.

The stars above burned bright and infinite, like words scattered across the pages of the sky, but no story Eddie could ever write would compare to the one unfolding right here, in Steve’s arms.

#steddie #steddie fic #steddie fanfiction #eddie munson #steve harrington #stranger things #eddie month #eddiemonth #madaboutmunson #madaboutmunsonSHC

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reazreviewzone · 2 months ago

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VidExplo AI Review - Creates World-Class Engaging Animated Explainer Videos In Less Than 60 Seconds!

In today’s fast-paced digital world, businesses and marketers constantly search for innovative ways to capture attention, engage audiences, and drive conversions. Enter VidExplo AI, the world’s first AI-powered app that allows you to create stunning, professional-quality animated explainer videos in less than 60 seconds—with just three clicks! Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, freelancer, or content creator, VidExplo AI is here to revolutionize how you create and sell animated videos.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into what makes VidExplo AI a game-changer, its standout features, who it’s best for, and why it’s highly recommended. Plus, we’ll explore how it can help you skyrocket your leads, traffic, and sales—all without any technical skills or expensive monthly fees.

What Is VidExplo AI? VidExplo AI is an AI-driven, drag-and-drop 3D animated explainer video builder that empowers users to create unlimited, high-quality animated videos in any niche and language. With its intuitive interface and powerful AI integrations, VidExplo AI eliminates the need for expensive video creators, complicated tools, or recurring monthly fees.

This app is designed for anyone who wants to create engaging, scroll-stopping animated videos without the hassle of learning video editing, scriptwriting, or animation design. From marketers and business owners to freelancers and content creators, VidExplo AI is your all-in-one solution for creating and selling world-class animated explainer videos.

Who Is VidExplo AI Best For? VidExplo AI is perfect for:

Marketers: Create high-converting animated videos for ads, social media, and sales funnels.

Business Owners: Showcase your products or services with professional explainer videos.

Freelancers: Offer animated video creation services on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.

Content Creators: Produce engaging videos for YouTube, blogs, and social media platforms.

Agencies: Scale your video production services for clients without additional costs.

Newbies: No prior tech or video editing skills required—anyone can use VidExplo AI!

Lead Generation: A marketer can generate leads to convert customers easily.

Training center: Anyone can create their business training center with VidExplo AI.

Targeted Niche: A salesperson can track their targeted niche for customers.

Overview – VidExplo AI First, a customer optimizes the products quality or benefits the site. Who is the person who built the app? Discount price: why build the app? And who is the best choice for it? Everything. That is an ideal customers quality. Don`t worry; I covered the part for an ideal person. I think you are an idealistic reader.

Author/vendor – Abhijit Saha Product – VidExplo AI Launce date – 3/03/25 Official website – VISITE HERE Front-end price - $17 Business – ok Animated Video – High Quality Instantly Create Text Into High-Quality 4k HD Video Create Instantly Book – High recommended Watch/ Create Video – Any Language Social Media Marketing – Number One passive income – ok Recurring System – OK Payment – ONE Time Local Business – High Recommend Money-Back – 30 Days Money-Back Guarantee Funnel/Tool – Automated & Done-For-You Support – Effective Niche – Any Niche of your choice

Why You Should Use VidExplo AI Here’s why VidExplo AI stands out as the ultimate tool for animated video creation: Speed & Efficiency:

Create videos in less than 60 seconds with just three clicks. Cost-Effective:- -No recurring monthly fees—pay just $14.95 once and use it forever. No Tech Skills Required: -The app’s user-friendly interface makes video creation a breeze. Unlimited Videos: -Create and sell as many videos as you want with the included commercial license. AI-Powered Features:

From scriptwriting to voiceovers and scene generation, VidExplo AI does it all for you. Huge Demand:

Animated explainer videos are proven to increase engagement, leads, and sales. Create Agency: You can create agency and demand the charge you want.

The Best Part of VidExplo AI The best part of VidExplo AI is its simplicity and affordability. Unlike other video creation platforms that charge exorbitant monthly fees, VidExplo AI offers a one-time payment model with no hidden costs. Plus, its AI-powered features—like scriptwriting, voiceovers, and scene generation—make it incredibly easy to create professional-quality videos without any technical expertise.

Why VidExplo AI Is Highly Recommended VidExplo AI is highly recommended because it solves the biggest pain points of video creation:

No More Expensive Freelancers: Save thousands of dollars by creating videos yourself.

No Monthly Fees: Avoid recurring payments and enjoy lifetime access.

No Learning Curve: The app is designed for beginners and experts alike.

High-Quality Output: Create videos that rival those made by professional agencies.

Money-Back Guarantee: There is a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Training: The agency provides step-by-step training for a customer.

Create Animated Video: Instant create and sell high-quality animated video.

Generate Agency: Create a video and sell it to your clients.

What Can You Do with VidExplo AI? With VidExplo AI, the possibilities are endless:

Create Animated Explainer Videos: Showcase your products, services, or ideas in a visually engaging way.

Sell Videos: Offer video creation services to clients and earn a lucrative income.

Boost Social Media Engagement: Share eye-catching videos on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Enhance Websites & Funnels: Embed videos to increase conversions and sales.

Monetize Your Skills: Use the commercial license to create and sell videos on freelance platforms.

Sale Any Product: You can link the product in the animated video.

Social Media Marketing: Sharing & Promotion on social media effortlessly.

Auto Languages: Built-in translation artificial intelligence technology to get automatic translation

Text Multiple Language: AI Tech Text-to-Speech integration with emotions that supports multiple languages.

Voiceover: Add your voice to the app. The app instantly built voice to video.

Why VidExplo AI Is a Game-Changer VidExplo AI is a game-changer because it democratizes video creation. You no longer need to rely on expensive freelancers or complicated software. With its AI-powered features, anyone can create professional-quality videos in minutes. This app levels the playing field, allowing small businesses and individuals to compete with larger brands.

Money-back guarantee A 30-day money-back guarantee is a customer-friendly policy that allows buyers to request a full refund within 30 days of purchase if they are unsatisfied with a product or service. This policy builds trust and confidence, encouraging potential customers to purchase with minimal risk. It demonstrates the seller's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. To claim a refund, customers typically need to return the product in its original condition or cancel the service within the specified period. This guarantee is commonly used in industries like software, e-commerce, and subscription services. While it can increase sales, businesses must ensure clear terms to prevent abuse. Overall, it’s a win-win, offering customers peace of mind and businesses a competitive edge.

How VidExplo AI Can Help You

Increase Engagement: Animated videos are proven to capture attention and keep viewers engaged.

Boost Conversions: Videos can increase sales by up to 85%.

Save Time & Money: Create unlimited videos without spending a fortune.

Scale Your Business: Offer video creation services and expand your income streams.

Promote Product: The app helps you promote your product easily.

Social media Marketing: Create a video share it on social media and instantly viral the video.

Voiceover: Add your voice to the app. The app instantly built voice to video.

Create Animated Video: Instant create and sell high-quality animated video.

Auto Languages: Built-in translation artificial intelligence technology to get automatic translation

Text Multiple Language: AI Tech Text-to-Speech integration with emotions that supports multiple languages.

Awesome Key Features of VidExplo AI Software indeed depends on some valuable features. The software will be attractive because of its features. Besides, how to work the software features smoothly or effectively in the future. Firstly, a customer consideration before purchasing this app. Therefore, an agency builds any software`s features discerningly for a client. After pricing, an agency wants honesty and satisfaction from its customers. It has responsibilities or accountability to a customer. The software boosts your earnings 10x with its awesome and interesting features, I can say obviously. I described the software beautifully below.

Here’s what makes VidExplo AI stand out:

AI Video Script Writing: Generate high-quality scripts in seconds.

AI Realistic Voiceovers: Convert scripts into professional voiceovers with emotions.

Drag-and-Drop Editor: Easily customize templates or start from scratch.

Built-In Stock Library: Access music, images, video clips, and more.

Auto Lip Sync: Sync audio with animations effortlessly.

100+ Templates: Choose from hundreds of customizable templates.

Commercial License: Create and sell videos without restrictions.

Text To Video: Turn Any Text Into Professional Animated Explainer Videos

Unlimited Opportunity: Video Creators, Freelancers, Voice-Overs Creators & Script Writers & more you want.

Targeted Niche: Add your link and sell anything to your targeted traffic. Leads & Sales

Instantly Create Video: Animated video is created in 60 seconds.

3D Video: Customize & Download 3D Animated Videos In Any Niche & Language

Ready Template: The agency built hundreds of ready-made templates.

How Does VidExplo AI Work? Using VidExplo AI is as easy as 1-2-3:

Step- Login: Access the cloud-based app (no installation required).

Step- Choose: Select a template or start from scratch.

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Free Commercial License A free commercial license allows individuals or businesses to use, modify, and distribute software, content, or products without paying licensing fees, even for commercial purposes. Unlike personal-use-only licenses, it permits monetization, such as selling the product or incorporating it into commercial projects. Popular examples include open-source software under MIT or Apache 2.0 licenses. However, users must comply with specific terms, such as attributing the original creator or sharing modifications under the same license. Free commercial licenses foster innovation, collaboration, and accessibility, making them valuable for startups, developers, and creators seeking cost-effective solutions. Always review the license terms to ensure compliance and understand any restrictions. Hurry! The price rises soon, and the free commercial license is only available for a limited time. Don’t wait—transform your video creation process with VidExplo AI today!

Pros and Cons of VidExplo AI Pros – VidExplo AI Review

Affordable one-time payment.

No tech skills required.

AI-powered features save time and effort.

Commercial license included.

30-day money-back guarantee.

Cons – VidExplo AI

Limited-time offer may expire soon.

Requires an internet connection (cloud-based).

OTOs or Upgrades Pricing – VidExplo AI Review

Front-End Price $14

OTO1: VidExplo AI 2.0 Pro [ $37 ]

.Unlock AI advanced text preset integration .Regular monthly updates & priority support included .Unlock pro features for pro-level video creation .Access to AI interactive editor dashboard .Unlock ultra-fast video rendering feature .Cover even more niches globally & skyrocket sales hands down .Unlock full Videxplo Ai potential & fuel your business growth .Get 50s of pro video templates & more niches .Unlock pro features to make 400x more sales .Unlock done for your animated scenes

OTO2: VidExplo AI 2.0 Unlimited [ $47 ]

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. Let us create a day VidExplo Ai . We will get everything done for you . Let us monetize your account with money-making methods . We will create your branding as well . Let us drive targeted buyers' traffic . Get everything 100% done for you . Work 1-on-1 with our support team . We’ll do everything, you just maximize profits . We'll make sure you're getting traffic & sales.

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. Royalty-free stunning stock media assets . premium video scenes Ready-made animated video background . brand-new video effects . video transitions . graphics for video Ready-made animated characters . animation videos for business . Music for video projects.

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Create unlimited VidExplo AI 2.0 accounts for anyone you want, sell, give away, or rent, this is a limited time agency opportunity.

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Get all the proven marketing templates and methods we use to make millions of sales per year at a huge discount…

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Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQ) Thousand of questions in a customer's mind. The app be good or bad? Have they a money-back guarantee? Have a bonus? Etc. I cleared your dude of mind. Particularly, a new customer has dude too much. Because they are a smart person of the current generation, generally, they don`t want to waste their valuable time. Ok, no problem, I clear dude questions of your mind. I covered some important questions that help customers buy the app or take the service.

Here are the questions and answers based on your request:

IS THERE A MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE? Yes, we offer a money-back guarantee. If you are not satisfied with the app within [specific time frame, e.g., 30 days], you can request a full refund. Please refer to our refund policy for more details.

WHY DO I INVEST IN THE APP? Investing in the app provides you with a powerful tool to [state the purpose of the app, e.g., streamline your business, improve productivity, or enhance user engagement]. It is designed to save you time, reduce costs, and deliver a high return on investment through its innovative features and user-friendly interface.

DO I NEED ANY TECH SKILLS? No, you don’t need any technical skills to use the app. It is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, making it accessible for users of all experience levels. However, if you have any questions, our support team is always available to assist you.

DO YOU PROVIDE ANY SUPPORT? Yes, we provide comprehensive support to ensure you have the best experience with the app. Our support team is available [state availability, e.g., 24/7 or during business hours] via [support channels, e.g., email, live chat, or phone]. Additionally, we offer a detailed knowledge base and tutorials to help you get started.

WILL YOU AUTO-UPDATE THE APP FEATURES? Yes, the app will automatically update to ensure you always have access to the latest features, security patches, and improvements. You don’t need to worry about manually updating the app—we handle everything for you to provide a seamless experience. Is VidExplo AI an easy-to-use platform? The biggest benefit is that you just need to follow the easy steps we’ve mentioned on the page & be on the right track to use this Revolutionary AI-powered app To Create World-Class Engaging Animated Explainer Videos In Less Than 60 Seconds!

Final Verdict - VidExplo AI Review VidExplo AI is a revolutionary tool that empowers users to create world-class animated explainer videos in minutes. With its AI-powered features, user-friendly interface, and affordable pricing, it’s a must-have for anyone looking to boost their online presence, engage their audience, and increase sales.

Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer—get VidExplo AI today and start creating unlimited animated videos for just $14.95!

Affiliate disclaimer Thank you for reading my honest review. My honest opinion is shared in the review. An affiliate disclaimer is a statement to inform audiences that a company or individual may earn a commission or other compensation if they purchase products or services through links on their website, blog, social media, or other platforms. This disclaimer is essential for maintaining transparency and complying with legal requirements, such as those set by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the United States. It ensures readers or viewers know of any potential bias or financial incentive behind recommendations. Typically, the disclaimer is placed prominently, either at the beginning or end of content, and clearly states the nature of the affiliate relationship. For example, "This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost." This builds trust with the audience while protecting the content creator from legal issues.

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