ROLEPLAY HQ - a-crowd-of-three

TW: Possible sexual content. Gore, violence, struggles with past trauma, mental health discussions, will add more as they come up!

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eddie: Hawkins, Indiana… honestly it didn’t look much different from when Eddie had left it over four years ago. The buildings were patched up, the massive cracks through the center of town filled in, but it was still the same old hunk of backwater nowhere that Eddie hated. Especially when he stuck out so much. It’d been long enough that the hate and vitriol he gained after Chrissy’s death had died down, thanks to a certain secret government agency that told everyone he was innocent, but Eddie drew eyes everywhere he went and Hawkins was no different. If it wasn’t his long hair and leather and chains drawing eyes, it was the loud humm of his motorcycle thrumming through the streets as loud as could be. Well fuck ‘em, because at least Eddie had gotten out. At least he’d bid this bitter shit hole goodbye and made a name for himself, a place where he belonged. He wouldn’t even be back if it wasn’t for Steve. (And the kids of course.) They’d called a bit since he left, always kept in friendly contact, but Steve had mentioned briefly how Eddie should stop by next time he was near town. Mentioned Robin and the kids missing him in that tone of voice that Eddie liked to pretend meant Steve missed him too. (Also there was mentions of a party and Eddie could never turn down a party with his favorite people.) Lucky for them, his tour was in their off season, with only a handful of shows in the nearby cities, so he had a few months of time to come visit the old family. Speaking of old family, Steve and Robin were already locking up shop by the time Eddie rounded the corner a bit too fast on his bike, some pretty little blonde thing talking with them as they did. Eddie wasted no time tearing into the parking lot and tugging off his helmet, letting out a loud woop in excitement as he shut off the bike. “Harrington! Buckly! My two favorite people! Guess who’s back, baby?” @maryyelenorr (edited)

“Thanks for choosing Family Video, have a good night.” Pryor said with a bright smile as she slid the VHS case across the counter. The young mother, carrying a sleepy toddler who rested his head on her shoulder, smiled softly at Pryor. She mouthed the words ‘Thank You’ before turning to leave, the bell that hung atop the door ringing throughout the now empty video store. Robin locked the front door, sighing heavily before returning to the counter. “Are you coming to the party tonight, Pry?” “Absolutely. After the week we had, I think it’s needed.” She said, closing the till before counting the money so they could leave. Robin quickly helped Pryor with the till close as Steve mopped the murky yellow-tiled floors. Pryor made mindless small talk with her coworkers as they finished up the close, talking about the customers they had to deal with. Entitled customers who thought their late-fees should be waived, obvious pre-teens trying to rent R-Rated movies, parents who let their children mess with the displays that they had worked on. The close went by quickly though, it always did. Pryor always enjoyed spending time with Steve and Robin, the friendship they had quickly pulled Pryor in, which was nice considering she was still getting used to the small town that is Hawkins, Indiana. It was a stark difference from the Californian town she was from, but she enjoyed it. A lot.

Outside, Steve watched as Robin and Pryor leaned against the front window while he fumbled with the keys. “Steve, baby, do you need help?” Pryors voice was almost condescending, in a joking manner. “I got it, Pryor.” He laughed, finally locking the door. The sound of a motorcycle pulled his attention for a moment, turning around to see a familiar figure in the otherwise empty parking lot of Family Video. “Eddie?” Robin said, a hint of excitement in her voice. “No way!” “Munson! You’re back!” Steve shoved the keys in his pocket before walking up to the motorcycle. Robin was the first to hug Eddie, which was almost odd, since Robin wasn’t the type of person to willingly hug someone. But, after four years, she made an exception. “You made it just in time for the party. We’re going to go get ready soon.” Steve said, trying to seem as calm as he possibly could. He knew Eddie would be coming back to visit, but actually seeing him here after all these years, it was a lot for him to process. A small sound pulled him from his thoughts, turning to see Pryor walking up to the group to join them. “Oh! I should probably introduce you.. Eddie, this is Pryor. She’s coming to the party too.” Steve said, mindlessly wrapping an arm around her waist. “She just moved to Hawkins not too long ago.”

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie laughed as he hugged Robin, picking her up and spinning her in a circle before dropping her back on her feet and turning towards the others. Seeing Steve again was like a gut punch in all the best ways, but he grinned anyway and pulled the other boy into a big hug as well. "My favorite people! Of course I made it for the party, it's my party!" He smirked, glancing up as the pretty blonde thing slipped up next to them. He watched with a small pang in his stomach as Steve wrapped an arm around her waist and introduced her, hoping beyond all hope that the others didn't notice his smile fall just a bit before he forced it back full force. (Though judging by the look Robin shot him, he didn't quite succeed.) Still, being the ever dramatic person he was, Eddie swept himself into a deep bow at the waist, casting his wild hair around him, and brought Pryor's hand up to press a kiss to her knuckles. "Well it is an honor, my lady! Welcome to Hell in America. I am Eddie the Banished, at your beautiful service!" (edited)

14:46

@maryyelenorr

Steve watched as Pryor smiled brightly. ”What a gentleman. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Steve told me a little bit about you.” Pryor said. Steve turned to Eddie, seeing the slight dissipation of his usual happy demeanour. Steve quickly dropped his arm from Pryors waist, though she didn’t seem to notice. They weren’t… dating, per se. Nothing was official, nothing was discussed, but there was something there. It just… wasn’t labeled. Steve struggled with a lot of emotions after Eddie left. After the initial wave of Eddie Hatred in Hawkins simmered down, Steve found himself missing Eddie. A Lot. He thought it was just a friend missing a friend, but after a lot of thought, he realized he missed Eddie as more than a friend. Though no one knew. Besides Robin. Steve tells Robin everything, including calling her in the middle of the night while he suffers through an identity crisis. It was a lot for Steve to take in, but he managed. And then Pryor showed up. Blonde hair tied back, a simple tshirt and jeans, holding her resume as she applied for a job.

“Steve? Sound like a plan?” Pryor watched as Steve seemed to shake himself from a deep thought, looking towards her. “What?” “I was just telling the guys that I’m going to go home first. I gotta drop the car off with my aunt and then get ready. I can meet you guys at the lake. Sound like a plan?” Pryor said, laughing slightly. Her hand reached up to rub his back. “You okay?” Steve nodded his head, clearing his throat. “Yeah, I’m fine. Sounds good. We can pick you up if you’d prefer.” Pryor let out a small laugh, shaking her head. “I think poor Steve over here is just in shock from seeing his friend. My aunt will drop me off at the party, as embarrassing as that is.” She rolled her eyes playfully before she pulled her car keys out of her pocket. “I don’t want to intrude on any bonding time with you three. It’s fine, I’ll meet you at the party. Promise.” She reassured Steve, turning to walk towards her car. “Save me a drink!”

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie watched as Steve zoned out, curious about what could be going on in that pretty little head of his. It wasn't like zoning out was at all unusual for Steve, at least not before Eddie had left. They all had their shit and Eddie never begrudge him when his mind took a turn from the conversation. Still, he couldn't help but notice how the other man dropped his arm from around the girl like he'd noticed Eddie staring. Had he? The feelings Eddie had for Steve were certainly complicated, but as much as he wanted that arm around him instead, he wasn't planning on coming back here to ruin whatever Steve had going with the princess. Not that he thought he could. He was sure Steve didn't think about him like that. "Let Stevie know if you'd rather have a ride, princess," Eddie called out as Pryor started heading towards her car. He gestured towards his motorcycle with a wide grin and a wiggle of his eyebrows. He may not be happy Steve was seeing someone, but at the very least he could befriend the girl. "I promise I'm a safe driver if someone else is with me!" He turned back to Steve and Robin and clapped his hands, bouncing a little on his feet. "Alright! Gangs all back together! What's the plan? Where are all of our little rugrats?"

16:41

@maryyelenorr

Pryor turned around as she heard Eddie calling out after her, stopping in her tracks so she could listen. A chuckle escaped her throat, nodding her head. “I’ll definitely keep that in mind, though I’m sure my aunt would cry if she saw someone pick me up in a motorcycle.” She let out another laugh, turning back to unlock her car doors. She climbed in, starting the car before turning around to wave one last goodbye to the group through her side window. Her car pulled out of the driveway, and as she made the short commute to her aunts house, Pryor recounted the events of the night. Steve had told Pryor about Eddie before, usually after a few drinks while they watched a movie. ”He’s a great guy. I’m happy he got out of Hawkins, but… we all miss him.” Steve seemed to talk about Eddie a lot, but Pryor didn’t mind. Steve always had a genuine smile on his face when he talked about him, one that warmed Pryors heart. Pryor had thought that there was something there, with the way that Steve constantly brought him up, but she’d never push a conversation like that. If he wanted her to know, he would’ve told her. “Hey Sweetie, how was work?” Pryor dropped the car keys on the counter before taking off her work vest, turning to smile at her aunt. “It was good. Typical day, I guess. I’m going to get ready for the party-“ “Oh, I’m sorry. I have to leave earlier than I thought. I can leave you some more money if you want to take a taxi?” Pryor turned around to look at her aunt, who finished getting ready for her date. “No it’s fine, I’ll figure something out.” She smiled, reassuring her aunt. “I hope you have fun tonight.”

Steve watched as Pryors car turned out of the parking lot before driving out of sight. His attention turned back to Robin and Eddie, a wide smile crossing his features as he placed a hand on Eddie’s shoulder. “I- We missed you, man. Dustin’s gunna be at the party, I think the others had other plans and couldn’t make it.” “As much as I’d love to stand here and talk, I’m freezing my butt off. I get cold easily, especially when the only thing protecting me from the elements is a flimsy vest.” Robin laughed, swaying in place. “Can we take this conversation to Steve’s house, please?” “Do you know how to get to my new place, Eddie?” Steve asked, quickly giving him the address of the new apartment that Steve was renting. Robin, impatient as ever, took Steve’s car keys from his hand and rushed over to the vehicle, sitting in the passenger seat as she started the engine, leaving Steve and Eddie alone for the first time in… years? “Or you can follow us and keep us company while we get ready?” Steve half-joked, pushing back some of his hair that had fallen out of place. Steve had become acutely aware of his heartbeat quickening, looking at Eddie after all these years. “Or you can just meet us at the lake, if you’d prefer.”

@midnighttrashgoblin

"Already had plans?" Eddie scoffed in mock offense, gesturing to himself in wide moves that almost smacked Robin in the face had she not been used to dodging him by now. "I come back foe the first time in four years and my children don't even want to see me? You've been poisoning their minds against me, haven't you, Stevie," he joked, tossing an arm over the other man's shoulder. "Trying to get them back on your side, huh?" He snorted a laugh as Robin escaped to the car, though part of him was cursing her for leaving him alone with Steve for the first time since he got the hell out of dodge. He stuck his tongue out at her and laughed loud and happy when she did it back. God, how he missed these idiots. He gratefully took Steve's address but rolled his eyes anyway as the man blundered through an invitation to his place. "I've got nothin' better to do, pretty boy. Besides, when else am I going to have the honor of seeing King Steves bedroom in person?" He joked, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. Falling back into the flirting was easy for him. He knew Steve didn't see him that way, but it made him feel better to get it out of his system, and as long as he was flirty with everyone else too, Steve would never know about his unrequited feelings. "I'll follow you, big boy," he grinned, tossing a leg over his bike and slipping on his helmet. "Just lead the way!"

04:49

@maryyelenorr

Steve let out a laugh as Eddie spoke about the kids. “Standing D&D sessions on the weekends, and I think Lucas and Max are dating… again?” He explained, chuckling as he caught a glimpse of Robin singing along to whatever song was playing over the radio. As Eddie continued to speak, Steve was immensely thankful for the dark cover of night, which allowed him to easily hide the rapidly growing blush that dusted his cheeks. Eddie always managed to make Steve flustered, but Steve tried to move past it as easily as possible. Eddie was like this with everyone, he just met Pryor and already gave her a playful nickname. So Steve moved past it as well as he could, which wasn’t much, and started walking towards the car. “I’ll see you at my place, then!” Steve laughed, climbing into the vehicle. “You okay?” Steve sighed, looking over at Robin. “I think so. I’m glad he’s back for a little while.” He tapped the steering wheel mindlessly for a few seconds before putting the car into reverse, leaving the parking lot to go to his apartment. His eyes glanced into the rear view mirror, seeing Eddie behind the car, and smiled softly.

“Pryor, I’m leaving now. Be safe.” Her aunts voice could be heard through the bathroom door, followed by the sound of the front door opening and closing. Pryor stood in front of the mirror, her short damp hair reaching just past her shoulders. After she finished washing her face and doing her makeup, Pryor walked into the living room and grabbed the phone, calling Steve’s place. ”Harrington Residence, Robin speaking.” Pryor let out a boisterous laugh, shaking her head. “When the hell did you become his secretary?” ”Pryor! What’s up?” Pryor pulled the corded phone towards the kitchen, getting herself a glass of water before she continued to speak. “I just…” She looked down at the counter, seeing an extra $20 with a small note on the counter. In case you need more drinks. with a small smiley face. Pryor laughed again, her aunt was a lot more relaxed compared to her parents, which was refreshing. “There’s been a slight change of plans. My aunt left early so I’m going to find another way to the party.” She leaned against the wall, listening to Robin on the other end. *”Pryors gotta find another way to get to the party… I don’t know? Pry, are you ready to go now? We could send Dustin-“ “Not Dustin. I love the kid but I watched him almost hit a traffic light because he was focused on his cassette tapes.” Pryor interjected almost immediately with a small laugh. “I won’t be ready for another twenty minutes anyhow, I still have to get dressed. You guys could probably pick me up, right?”

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie was sprawled out on Steve's bed when the phone rang, stretching his body across it so his shirt rucked up to show off his bat bites and tattoos and his head hanging upside down over the edge. He didn't need to get ready, and at least this way he could pretend his face was red from the blood rush and not from Steve changing on the other side of the room. He listened as Steve and Robin yelled at each other from across the house, smiling softly to himself at how familiar it all was. He really had missed them, and the kids, and hell, even Hopper and Joyce. The whole damn crew. His band mates were great, they were almost family, but trauma bonding was stronger than any other and Eddie would never give this crew up for all the riches in the world. "Tell her I'll pick her up if she wants!" Eddie calls out to Robin. He glanced around the room with a grin, noting all the kettle bits and bobs that gave it life. Some Polaroids of the kids, of the three of them and all the others. Steve's baseball bat was still tucked into one of the corners and his letterman jacket over the closet door. "Holy shit," Eddie laughed, all but launching himself off the bed to tug a familiar piece of denim out from where it was tucked into the closet. It was his battle vest. It was clear Steve had done his best to get the blood and gunk out of it, for all the good it did. But honestly Eddie thought it just looked even more metal like this. His stomach tightened at the thought that Steve kept it, a huge smile and a blush spreading over his face as he glanced up at the other man. "You kept it?"

@maryyelenorr

”Eddie can pick you up! Now you’ll show up in style.” Robins voice floated through the receiver as Pryor took a sip of her water. “Uh, yeah. That works.” She said, mindlessly playing with the cord of the phone now. “I’ll need at least twenty minutes. I wanna make sure my hair dries before I subject it to a motorcycle helmet.” A small laugh crossed her lips. The pair continued to talk on the phone for a few more minutes, random chatter to fill the air and keep Robin occupied while Steve finished getting ready. “What are you wearing?” ”One of Steves old button up shirts, my black tank top, and jeans. I think Vickie is going to be there.” The upturn of Robins tone of voice brought a smile to Pryors face. ”I probably won’t say anything again, y’know, plausible deniability or whatever. It’ll be nice to hang out with her though.” “I’m sure you’ll do fine, Robin. She is the one who keeps calling you.” Pryor mentioned. The conversation about Robins assumed unrequited love continued on until Steve’s voice could be heard in the background. “Hah- I should let you go. Twenty minutes, for real now. Think Eddie will know how to get to my place?” ”Ill get him the address- okay! Steve! I’m hanging up the phone now! My god, see you later Pry. Yes, I’m ready-“ Click. Pryor hung up the phone before retreating to her room, scouring the closet for clothes to wear to an outdoor bonfire party.

Steve had quickly changed his shirt one last time, settling for a dark t-shirt/blazer combo. He adjusted his hair in the mirror, making sure it looked as good as he always had it. The sound of Eddie’s voice pulled his attention away, turning around to face the man standing in front of the closet. His eyes landed on the denim vest, a smile forming. “Of course I kept it. It may not have the best memories attached to it, but I wouldn’t throw it away.” Steve smiled. Out of the corner of his eye, Steve caught a glimpse of the scar around his neck. The one he received that night, the night full of near death experiences. Mostly faded, barely noticeable, but it’s there if someone were to look hard enough. His eyes turned to fixate on the vest once again. Even if the memories tied to it weren’t the best, it was a part of Eddie. It was his signature vest, patches and pins galore. The thought of throwing it out never once crossed his mind, especially after Eddie left Hawkins. It was Steve’s personal reminder of him, a person he never wants to forget. “Pryor will be ready to go soon.” Robin said as she walked into the bedroom. “I swear to god you two could talk on the phone for hours, despite the fact you’re going to see each other in less than an hour.” Steve joked, watching Robin flop onto the end of the bed. “I’m good to go now. I’ll write down Pryors address for you, Eds.” He quickly turned around, grabbing a loose piece of paper and a pen. “We’ll meet you at the lake.” Steve looked up at Eddie with a smile, handing him the small folded piece of paper.

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie hummed, unable to keep the grin off his face as Robin and Steve bickered. As much as he hated Hawkins on principle, he couldn't help be so happy he was back. Still, he had a party to get to so he slipped back into his leather jacket, the back panel hand painted with Metalicas "Master of Puppets" design and CORRODED COFFIN spread across the top of the back shoulder blades. It was his new battle vest (though he still technically had an actual denim vest he pit his patches and stuff on for when it was too hot for the leather). "Alright babes, I'm off to rescue a princess from her tower," he said, bowing to each of them before ducking out of the house and hopping on his bike. Lucky for him, Pryor didn't live too far away, so it didn't take him long to get there, his bike loud and thunderous in the otherwise quiet neighborhood as he parked in the driveway. "Repunzel, Rapunzel, let down your long hair," he called up to the only window with a light on, uncaring of who saw him making a fool of himself. He tugged his helmet off and placed it in his lap for Pryor since he only had the one. "I hear there's a dragon needs slaying and I know just the man for the job!

@maryyelenorr

Robin remained unmoving from her spot on the bed as Eddie left, saying a small ‘see ya later’ as he retreated out of the bedroom. With Steve and Robin alone, she then sat up and looked at Steve. “You doing okay?” She prodded, watching Steve nervously adjust his hair in the mirror. “I’m… fine.” He managed to stutter out. Truthfully, he was nervous. And he knew Robin could tell. “Seeing him here again… I don’t know. I guess it’s just… all flooding back. You know?” “I get it. Let’s get going, maybe you just need a few drinks in you.” Robin stood up and patted his back for a moment. “Who knows, maybe a certain drunk metalhead will get some courage.” She laughed before retreating downstairs. With a small and nervous chuckle, Steve followed, and within a few minutes, they were on their way to the party.

Pryor had finished getting dressed just a moment before she could hear Eddie’s motorcycle outside. As she grabbed the last of her belongings, his voice could be heard through the windowpane. She opened the window and leaned out, seeing the man atop his motorcycle. “You know I have neighbours, right?” She joked, looking around at the empty suburban streets. “Well, my knight in shining leather, I’ll be down in a second.” Her voice cut through the heavy silence that filled her neighbourhood, laughing for a moment before closing the window and going outside. She was dressed in a simple outfit, a pair of jeans that she never usually wore, and a black long sleeved top, cropped just above the top of her jeans. Nothing too flashy, she was just there to have a good time. “I really hope you’re good at driving this thing. This is going to be a first for me.” Pryor said with a smile as she closed the front door behind her.

@midnighttrashgoblin

"I'll be the perfect gentleman, I assure you," Eddie grinned, bowing slightly to her despite still being seated. He planted his feet and held out the helmet. "For your protection. And watch your legs on these big silver things here, they get real hot so keep your feet on the foot pegs," he instructed. He kept the bike sturdy as he helped her on, waiting until she was situated before he revved the engine a bit so it shook beneath them. "You ready princess?" He shouted loud enough for her to hear him, trying to ignore how nice it felt to have her pressed up against his back. "Just hold on and lean with me into the turns." He waited until she was ready before slowly waddling them out of the driveway and launching them down the street. He kept to the speed limit, slowing down for the necessary turns as he took the long familiar route to the lake and being extra careful once they hit the dirt road leading into the woods around it. Before long he could see the slight glow of the bonfire someone no doubt set up already and the dark shadows of people hanging around. He pulled up behind Steve's beamer and grinned as he waited for Pryor to hop off the bike. "I have arrived with the beautiful maiden! All hail and good greetings my bitches and bros!" @maryyelenorr

Pryor grabbed the helmet before climbing onto the back of the motorcycle, her feet could just barely touch the ground. Listening intently to what Eddie was saying, Pryor tried to process all the information at once, which seemed fairly straightforward. ’You ready, princess?’ Pryor breathed sharply, nodding her head. “I think so.” She said just loud enough for Eddie to hear her before she put on the helmet. With only a small moment of hesitation, Pryor leaned against Eddie’s back, wrapping her arms around his waist and clasping her hands in front of him. And yet, despite the fear that she’ll never admit wracked her body, the ride to the party was a thrill in of itself. It was exhilarating.

Steve and Robin arrived to the party just a few moments before Eddie and Pryor. They stood by the car, waiting for them to show up. “The parties already in full swing, it looks like.” Robin said, doing a cursory scan of the crowd. The undeniable sound of Eddie’s motorcycle soon came into earshot. As the two climbed off the bike, Pryor handed the helmet back to Eddie before walking up to Robin. “Thanks for the ride, Eddie.” Pryor smiled at him before Robin dragged her out of earshot to talk. Steve walked up to Eddie, standing beside him as he looked out to the crowd. “A lot of people are happy you’re back, even if it’s just for a visit.” He turned to look at Eddie, trying his best to suppress the feelings that threatened to flood his mind. It proved to be difficult, but somewhat manageable. “I hope the ride here was good. Pryor looks like she had some fun.” He motioned to Pryor, who seemed to be sharing her joy with Robin.

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie laughed and sent Pryor a wink as he took the helmet back, propping it up on the back seat as he glanced briefly at the full swing of the party. It was more people than Eddie expected, honestly, but he couldn't really say he minded. The more people there were, the less someone would care if he did something stupid or decided to dip out early because he did something stupid. "Well damn, Stevie," he laughed, glancing back at the other man as the ladies headed towards the bonfire. "Didn't realize you were going to throw me a whole Eddie-polooza! Should'a brought my dancin' shoes," he joked, doing a quick little jig in his thick combat boots just to see if he could make Steve laugh. He really loved Steve's laugh. He followed Steve's eye towards Pryor again and tried to ignore the pang in his chest at remembering that Steve wasn't his to make laugh anymore than Pryor was. (Even if she did look smoking in those tight jeans.) "She was the perfect passenger, as I'm sure you knew already. And don't worry, Stevie, if you want a ride on the Eddie-mobile, all you gotta do is ask!" It took a moment for his brain to catch up to his mouth and the implications of his words. He cursed himself in his head, glad for the darkness around them as he was sure his face was bright red. "Aha," he laughed, gesturing towards the motorcycle, "and by Eddie-mobile, I mean my beautiful Siouxsie over here. Almost named her Joan, if you must know, but when I got her she screeched like a banshee so I thought Siouxsie fit better, you know?" Great, now he was babbling like an idiot. Ten points to Eddie for always being the fool. Part of him wondered if it was too early to make a run for it. @maryyelenorr

Steve couldn’t hold back his laughter as he watched Eddie make a fool of himself. It was cute, everything Eddie did was cute. Steve couldn’t get enough of him, his laughter was intoxicating. He was intoxicating. “Well, I’m glad you two made it here safe. It seems like you guys are getting along, despite just meeting earlier tonight.” Steve commented, looking at Pryor again. He watched as Vickie walked up to Robin and Pryor, handing them their first drinks of the night. “Uh.. Dustin should be around here somewhere? Vickie is probably going to steal Robin away, so I’ll take Pryor around to say hi to people, I guess?” Steve rambled, though he would have preferred to stay with Eddie and Pryor all night.

“Speak of the devil.” Pryor said, walking up beside Steve. “And he shall arrive.” Dustin continued the sentence, letting out his typical Dustin Laugh. “Found this child wandering around. Steve, did you know your son is at a party meant for adults.” Pryor joked, crossing her arms across her chest. Dustin shot her a glare before laughing once again. Dustin was always such a happy-go-lucky guy, which Pryor appreciated. It was nice, especially in a town where everyone seemed so… upset. Like a curse was placed over Hawkins. “Munson!” Dustin almost yelled, walking over to give him a hug. “Robins with Vickie. This beer tastes like tap water, I think Joey brought it. Did you bring the other stuff I bought earlier?” Pryor asked Steve, slightly leaning against him. Her eyes darted between Steve and Eddie, though she hoped no one would notice her staring. “Yeah, it’s in the trunk. I’ll get it.” Steve said, placing a soft kiss on her forehead, a habit he had formed.

@midnighttrashgoblin

"She seems like a pretty rad chick. Besides, I figure if you like her, then I will," Eddie shrugged as he glanced at where Robin was trying desperately not to fall all over Vickie and Pryor looked like she was trying not to laugh at Robin. She really was gorgeous, Eddie had to admit. With her pretty hair and her pale skin and that big, bright smile. Her and Steve both had such big sunshine smiles, smiles that didn't belong in the darkness overlaying Hawkins. "Dustin! My beautiful baby boy," Eddie cried out, launching himself at the boy and squeezing him, picking him up and twisting him around before rubbing a knuckle into his head. "At least one of my brats didn't abandon me. See this, Pryor? This is my son, Stevie gets the rest of them. But this one? I fought long and hard for custody over this one," he laughed even as Dustin shoved him off. He greeted Dustin with a complicated hand shake, more DND inspired than his lame Star Wars handshake with Steve, before turning back to ask Steve who else was planning on showing up. The words froze in his throat however when he saw Steve plaster a kiss on Pryor's forehead, his heart lurching against his ribs. "Yo, you okay?" Dustin asked, concern etched into his forehead as Eddie watched Steve duck back towards the car to grab drinks. Eddie took a deep breath, forcing his eyes away from the other man and towards Dustin and the gang. He forced a grin, reaching out to snatch the first drink he saw before chugging it down as quick as he could. "Course I'm okay, Dusty-bun, it's a party!" Eddie laughed, slinging his arm around the kid—and damn, when did he get so tall?—before turning his gaze to Pryor. "So princess, since when have you been a part of the Party with a capital P? Been slaying demons like the rest of us? Or just married in?"

17:24

@maryyelenorr

Pryor let out a soft laugh as she watched Eddie and Dustin. She had only really hung out with Dustin a handful of times in the short few months she’s been here, yet she’d never seen him that excited. Eddie Munson must be someone really special. “Hm? Me?” She raised her eyebrows in slight surprise, almost caught off guard by the question. “Slaying demons? Oh- no.” She laughed, shaking her head. “I just moved here from California not too long ago. I work with Steve and Robin, which is how I know everyone else.” She explained, nodding. “I asked if she wanted to try D&D, but I think Steve poisoned her mind because she always says no.” Dustin joked, playfully elbowing her ribs. “You can’t blame Steve on my severe lack of knowledge of the entire game, Dustin.” Pryor laughed, taking a small sip of her shitty beer. “I was fairly sheltered before I came here.”

“What are you guys blaming me for?” Steve showed back up to the small group, a box of beer in hand. He opened it up and handed one to Pryor. “Do you guys want one?” It felt… weird offering alcohol to Dustin. Yet, he was no longer the small 12 year old from when they first met. “Sure!” Dustin said, accepted one of the cans and popping it open. “We were just telling Eddie that your friend here knows nothing about D&D.” He continued before taking a hefty sip of the alcohol. “Because, obviously, you poisoned her mind. That’s the only logical answer.” Steve laughed, rolling her eyes. “Pryor? Playing D&D? That’s a sight to see. I couldn’t imagine her wearing one of those… what was it… Hellfire Club shirts!” He said, half-joking. “Maybe I’ll do it just to spite you now.” Pryor said ‘under her breath’, but still loud enough for everyone to hear. Steve playfully pushed her shoulder before his attention was pulled towards the bonfire. ”Harrington! You gonna party or what?” “Come on, guys. We’re here to party, not talk about a board game.”

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie couldn't help but laugh at the groups argument, beyond relieved that he was finally back with his family. He twisted Dustin's hat around and pouted when the boy took a swig of beer. "Since when can you drink?! You're like, twelve! I can't believe this! Steve! Stevie-baby, do you see this?" He cried, gesturing widely to Dustin before falling dramatically into Robin's arms. "Our baby boy, all grown up. I can't believe it." As they argued about d&d, Eddie grinned wide and slung his arm over Pryors shoulder, leaning in as if he was going to tell her a secret. "Don't worry, little miss, I can corrupt anyone. Steve's been holding out, but I'll break him down eventually. Just think about it, I'll even get you a Hellfire Club shirt that's kike, pink or something," he promises. Someone yells out about the party, calling for Steve and Eddie feels his heart pang a but at the idea of Steve ditching them for his old high school buddies, but he doesn't let it show. Instead, he chugs the rest of his beet and laughs loud and bright, throwing his arms up. "Let's party, bitches!"

@maryyelenorr

Steve couldn’t help but laugh loudly at Eddie’s reaction to Dustin drinking. It had been a long few years since… everything happened. Dustin, and all the others, had grown up. Adults. It made Steve feel old, despite only being twenty three. He nodded his head, taking his own swig of beer before answering Eddie after his display of theatrics. “The kid is growing up, it’s hard to believe. How old was Dustin when he first met you?” Steve asked Eddie, temporarily ignoring the calls of people behind him. “Fifteen, I think? It was definitely after I got my front teeth.” Dustin half-joked before quickly finishing the beer. ”Steve! Come say hi!” A groan crossed his lips as he turned around, waving at the others. “I’ll be right there!” He said, doing to best to reassure the others because honestly, he didn’t want to leave Pryor and Eddie’s side. As he turned to face the group again, his eyes fell on Eddie whispering in Pryors ear, an arm around her. She smiled brightly, her usual smile that was always followed by a small giggle. A small pang of jealousy hit his stomach, but he wasn’t sure why. Emotions flooded his mind for a second, his feelings for both Pryor and Eddie clouding his vision. They both seemed so… nice together, and he wanted to be right there too.

“I think I’m long overdue for some sort of corruption.” Pryor half-joked, letting a small laugh cross her lips. Her mouth was upturned into a small but genuine smile, leaning against Eddie. “This is only my… probably fifth time drinking beer? Before I moved to Hawkins, it was only wine at dinners or champagne at fancy events.” She explained. The lack of a history of partying would explain the lightweight that is Pryor Frey. “Hellfire? I’ve heard Dustin bring that up several times, is that like… a D&D thing?” Pryor asked, craning her neck slightly to look up at Eddie, who practically towered over her. “Either way, I’ll take a shirt.” She stood up on her tip toes and lowered her voice slightly. “I just know it’ll confuse Steve and it would be funny to see his reaction.” Pryor, in an attempt to get at least a little tipsy before having to walk around the party, quickly finished her beer as well. “So, Mr. Eddie Munson, my goal tonight is to get to know you as well as everyone else here does.” She playfully poked him in the chest. “Do you accept my quest on the path of knowledge?” She tried to phrase it as a D&D type of reference, though she wasn’t sure if it made any sense at all.

@midnighttrashgoblin

"Only your fifth time? Well you're a natural," Eddie grinned, giving the girl a wink. "Remind me sometime while I'm visiting to get you some good weed. Best not to do it the first time at a party, rather with people you trust, but it's a great time," he promised with a laugh. He waved over to where Jonathan and Argyle were posted up on one of the benches. "Argyle always has the real good stuff, just let me know if you're down sometime. Even Stevie here has done it." It hadn't been that long after all the shit went down that the "Scooby Gang" as they called themselves (they being the older teens/young adults) had started up regular smoke sessions to calm themselves down and chill for a bit. It wasn't that often, only when things got really bad before Eddie high tailed it out of dodge, but they'd been nice, regardless. "Hellfire is the club at the high school," Eddie told the girl, jumping himself up onto a table and leaning back on it. "Dusty-bun over here took it over when I left, but it was a place all the geeks and freaks could hang out and play some D&D! And shirts are for club members only, Lil' Miss, so you're either in or out." In truth, he definitely would give her a shirt either way, but she didn't need to know that. Eddie already had a shirt tucked away in his van for the day he inevitably got Steve to finally join a game, and the more he hung out with Pryor, the more he liked her. It wouldn't be too hard to get her a pink one. Eddie laughed as he watched Pryor chug her beer, cheering her on before tossing her another one. "Well, your majesty, I'm an open book," he said, bowing from where he sat. Something in his chest fluttered as she tried to use the right language, and his grin turned a bit softer. "I'll never deny a quest, especially one involving someone as beautiful as you! You can ask me anything you like but I reserve the right to ask back! If Steve here is so enamored with you, I need to know what all the hub-ub is about!"

@maryyelenorr

“Your offer is tempting.” She smiled as she stared up at him. “Who knows? Maybe I’ll give it a shot. I’ve been trying a lot of new things since moving to Hawkins.” Pryor let out a loud laugh at Eddie’s reaction, shaking her head. “Enamoured? Heh- I don’t think so.” She started, placing a hand on her hip as she paused for a moment. “Officially, we’re only friends. But I’m flattered to know you think I’m beautiful.” She smiled, playfully nudging him with her arm. In truth, it was flattering. Pryor couldn’t lie to herself, Eddie was attractive, and he was sweet. “As for the weed…” She paused, pondering the thought for a moment. “I think I could be convinced to try.” She chuckled lightly, though not joking. Would she be a little anxious to try? Sure, she’d never done the stuff before, Pryor hadn’t even touched a cigarette before, but she couldn’t deny that she was curious. Pryor turned away for a moment, seeing Steve standing just a few feet away. “Hey, should we find a place to sit? My feet are sore from work.”

Steve was pulled from his thoughts when Pryor spoke up. Case of beer in hand, Steve nodded his head when he finally clued in on what Pryor asked. “Yeah, we could go hang out by the fire.” He suggested. Dustin, who had been patiently waiting for the others to go further into the party, nodded his head at Steve’s suggestion. “Let’s do it!” He broke out into a smile. Dustin’s enthusiastic personality was definitely infectious at times. “Pry? Eds? You joining us?” Pryor nodded her head. “Of course I am!” She turned to grab ahold of Eddie’s arm, pulling him towards the fire while Steve turned to lead them. He turned to glance over his shoulder, seeing Pryor easily catching up despite attaching herself by the hand to Eddie. He knew Pryor was a friendly person, but this almost shocked him. “Okay, who needs a new drink?” Steve spoke up, sitting in a spare chair by the bonfire.

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie grinned as he let Pryor lead him forward, trying not to blush like a virgin when she grabbed at his hand. In truth, he was a bit confused about the whole dynamic between her and Steve, because what did she mean officially? But still, he'd never turn down the chance to corrupt something as sickeningly sweet as her. He tossed an arm over Steve's shoulder when they drew close enough, reveling in the feeling of his strong shoulders and the heat radiating off of him. He leaned forward just enough to catch Steve's eyes and wiggled his eyebrows a bit. "Did you hear all that, Stevie? We're going to corrupt your little princess over here," he said with his signature grin. "No D&D? No Weed? That's no life to live! So it's our jobs to bring the princess down from her lonely life in the tower, dirty 'er up a bit you know? You in?

15:17

He plopped himself down on the ground once they'd gotten to the fire, leaving the log bench for Pryor and Steve and their pretty, expensive looking clothes. He didn't give two shits about whether or not his jeans were dirty or not. Hell, there was barely any jeans left, honestly with how the holes in the front pretty much showed off his entire leg at this point. When Steve asked if they wanted a drink, Eddie helped him pass them out, snatching a few for himself, Pryor, and Steve and tucking them into the sand beside him. "So Stevie, baby, what have you been up to?" He asked after downing nearly half of his beer. "Other than wooing princesses and slaying the daily grind of capitalist media?"

@maryyelenorr

Steve sat on the log, getting himself comfortable as Pryor sat down beside him. Vicky and Robin had rejoined the group by that point, already sitting in their own respective spots, smiling and talking to each other. Steve looked at them, smiling warmly as he watched his best friend blush from just talking to Vicky. Dustin had sat down beside Eddie as well, beer in hand, turning to talk to Pryor about a movie suggestion. “Wooing princesses?” Steve cocked an eyebrow at Eddie before laughing. He reached up and pushed some hair out of his face. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, but life has pretty much been the same since you left. Minus the whole… well… you know.” Steve’s voice lowered, getting a small flash of a memory that he would have rather forgotten. “Working, and, well I guess that’s pretty much all I do nowadays.” He continued with a small laugh. His hand reached over to grab Eddie’s shoulder, smiling. “We all really missed you. We’re glad you’re back, even if it’s only for a little bit.” His smile was genuine, a soft upturn at the corner of his lips. “Steve! You haven’t made Pryor watch Star Wars?” Dustin’s voice was loud, almost scaring Steve. “What! No, I haven’t. I didn’t think she would be interested in it.” Steve explained, shrugging his shoulders.

Pryor shook her head, leaning over to look at Eddie. “Can you believe this? Doesn’t show me Star Wars? Pft.” Pryor said, half-joking. A small shrug of her shoulders followed though, Pryor sat up just slightly, picking off a leaf that had blown onto her jeans. “He has shown me some stuff that I didn’t really think he would like, though. That one band… Metallica? Yeah! It doesn’t seem like the type of music he would listen too, but I guess he does.” Pryor said, somewhat nonchalantly. Dustin glanced at Pryor, then to Steve, knowing that there was only one reason why Steve knew about Metallica in the first place. “Eddie, what’s your favourite movie? Dustin here is on a quest to get me to watch as many movies as possible, since I haven’t seen… any, I guess.” Pryor quickly moved on, smiling as she stared at Eddie, beer in hand.

@midnighttrashgoblin

Eddie couldn't help but blush when Steve mentioned missing him. It made him want to reach out and grab the other boy's hand, to pull him close and show him just how much he missed him as well. He couldn't do that, obviously. Not only was Steve straight, but it wasn't like they were in a private setting. Around their friends, it might have been okay, what with Mike and Will now together from what Eddie heard, but there were strangers here Eddie didn't know. He wasn't about to risk Steve like that even if the other boy did like boys. Still, he let himself stare for a few long minutes before shrugging at him and saying, "eh, I'm planning on sticking around for a while. The summer at least, maybe a bit into the fall and winter. Tour has been slow and the guys want to take a break to write some more music, produce our next album and shit, before getting back on the road, you know? He jumped when Dustin began yelling about star wars, turning towards where Pryor was leaning conspiratorially towards him. Always willing to play up a joke, he clutched at his chest, turning a betrayed glance towards Steve. "No star wars? Steve! Have I taught you nothing?" He draped himself across Pryor's lap, one hand to his forehead and the other clutching at his heart. Only moments later though, she mentioned Metallica and Eddie was launching himself back up into a seated position, his eyes wide and mouth hanging open.

17:21

He laughed with the rest of them, peeking an eye open to glance up at Pryor when she asked his favorite movies. He held up two fingers, ticking them off. "In order, my lady: The Princess Bride, and Jim Henson's The Labyrinth. Both absolute classics and full of adventure, romance, and beautiful people," he chuckled, wiggling his eyebrows at her.

@maryyelenorr