Archive of Our Own

Eddie tells Steve the news during the tail end of a particularly boring shift. Since it’s getting closer and closer to September, meaning it’s almost time for school to start for everyone under 18 in Hawkins, the crowds at Family Video have been dwindling severely as the days go by. Fridays and Saturdays are still the busiest, but Steve can manage them a lot easier by himself when Robin sneaks out to meet up with Nancy. He’s stopped getting on her ass about it, since Nancy’ll be moving to Boston the last week of August so he’s letting them spend as much time together as possible—even if it means covering for Robin at work. If she’s gonna fool around with her girlfriend on company time, she might as well get paid for it. At least, that’s what Steve thinks. 

It’s currently four o’clock on the dot on a Wednesday, so the store is completely empty. He sighs, sitting behind the counter with his arms propped onto the table as he stares at the clock. Robin’s been gone for an hour, meaning she likely won’t be back since they close fairly soon, and Keith has the day off today. In short, he’s completely alone. When Eddie throws the door open, it’s a welcome sight.

Steve perks up at the appearance of his boyfriend. He looks even more excitable than usual, rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet. There’s a wide grin across his face and he’s holding a sheet of paper in his hands—a little too tightly, Steve notices, since the edges around his fingers are getting wrinkled. His long hair is tied up into a ponytail and his brown eyes are gleaming with what Steve thinks is excitement. He has on a cropped Dio shirt, his classic ripped black jeans, and a pair of beat up Doc Martens. He leans across the counter and pulls Steve into a kiss in lieu of greeting him.

He can’t help but melt into it, even if Eddie pulls back almost right away. “Hi, Stevie baby. I missed you.” Steve smiles at that. They’ve been seeing each other a little less lately since Eddie and his band started working on their first album. He’s extremely supportive, but he really does miss Eddie a lot. He has started to sleep at Steve’s apartment after sessions instead of going back to the trailer park ever since Steve gave him a spare key, so he’ll take what he can get. “Okay, you’ll never fuckin’ guess what!”

“I missed you, too.” His enthusiasm is contagious, so Steve finds himself grinning when he asks, “What?”

Eddie shoves the paper into Steve’s hands. Examining it, he realizes it’s less of a sheet of paper and more of a poster. A poster for a Corroded Coffin concert at some dive a couple towns over. Wait a second. He knows that name.

“No fucking way,” Steve gasps, matching Eddie’s enthusiasm exactly as he stares at the poster. “Eddie, no fucking way!”

“I know!” Eddie exclaims, hopping over the counter to sit on top of it. He sits with his back facing the door. “I just—Stevie, holy shit, I can’t believe it. This is like…it’s fucking huge! It’s this place a couple hours away from Hawkins that’s supposed to be, like, the spot for metal and hard rock bands that’re just starting out. I found out we booked it on Monday but I wanted to keep it a surprise until they released the posters. Oh, I’ve been fucking dying to tell you.”

Steve abandons the poster on the countertop and grabs Eddie by the sides of his face, kissing him. He stands between Eddie’s thighs as he kisses him, trying to somehow convey all of the emotions he’s currently feeling. Eddie smiles against his lips, sliding his arms around Steve’s waist. Steve presses his forehead against Eddie’s when he pulls back.

“I’m so proud of you,” he says seriously. “This is so—it’s fucking amazing, that’s what it is! When is it?”

“This Saturday,” Eddie informs him. “Will you come? I got you a ticket already but I know you’re not a huge fan of metal but—”

Steve shuts him up with another kiss. “Are you crazy? Of course I’ll come. I wouldn’t miss this.”

Eddie’s grin gets even wider. “God, you’re the best boyfriend in the whole fuckn’ world, you know that? I’m so lucky to have you. I—” He stops, briefly faltering over his words. Then after a beat, “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but thank God for evil interdimensional monsters for bringing us together.”

“Yeah,” Steve laughs, kissing Eddie again. “Thank God.”

“I gotta—” Eddie stops to kiss Steve again, like he can’t get enough of him. The attention makes Steve preen, but he also knows it means he’s probably not gonna see Eddie for the rest of the week. “I gotta go. We’re gonna be rehearsing all fucking week so I probably won’t see you too often. I’ll come by at night, though, since I sleep better with you there. I’ll also come by on Friday with some of my shit so you can put together an outfit because there’s no way they’d let you in dressed in your stupid polo and jeans combo.”

Steve rolls his eyes but he can’t fight off the grin that works its way onto his features. “Yeah, okay. I’m so excited for you,” he says honestly. “I know you’ve worked hard for this.”

“Yeah,” Eddie replies, looking at Steve with complete and utter adoration. “I have. I—I’m gonna miss you but I’ll make up for it, I promise.” He kisses Steve one last time before he hops off the counter. “I’ll see you tonight!”

Steve rests his elbows back on the counter. “It’s okay, Eddie—seriously. Just let yourself in like always.”

He flashes him one last grin before he’s out the door. He left the poster behind, so Steve takes it and puts it with the rest of his things so he doesn’t forget to take it home at the end of his shift. There’s a customer idly walking around the shelves when he returns from the back room, so he waits patiently behind the counter to see if she needs any assistance. She doesn’t, but she does end up renting a couple movies. He rings her up and sends her on her way just in time for closing. Steve organizes the shelves and cleans up the floor before locking up for the night. He carefully lays out the poster in the passenger seat of his car before driving back to his apartment. He takes it inside and into his room. Steve digs through his things until he finds a couple thumbtacks so he can pin the poster to the wall. It joins his other posters he has for bands like Journey, ABBA, and Duran Duran. There’s some movie posters, too—Back to the Future, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and The Breakfast Club to name a few. 

Steve takes a step back, examining how it looks. It sticks out like a sore thumb, but he couldn’t be more proud to have it hanging on his wall. He smiles to himself before heading back out into the living room. He kicks off his shoes by the door and makes his way into the kitchen. Steve digs through his fridge and makes himself something to eat. He cleans the kitchen once he’s finished and moves into the living room. 

Eddie stumbles into Steve’s apartment close to midnight. He accidentally opens his bedroom door a little too hard, causing the door handle to bang against the wall. He mutters a quick, “Sorry, sweetheart,” when Steve jerks awake. He sits up, watching his boyfriend tuck his guitar case in the corner of Steve’s room before shedding himself of his clothes. Eddie wraps himself up in Steve once he climbs into bed. Steve laughs as he hugs him back tightly. 

“Hey, can I show you something before you fall asleep?”

Eddie glances up at him. He’s obviously drowsy but he nods anyway. He rolls off Steve and sits up, rubbing at his eyes to try. Steve slips off the bed and turns on his bedroom light before turning toward Eddie. “Do you notice anything different?” he asks, doing his best to keep his voice steady.

His boyfriend raises his eyebrows but indulges Steve’s request, glancing around his room. “Is the ABBA poster new? I don’t remember seeing it—” He cuts himself off and Steve follows his line of sight, grinning when he lands on the poster advertising his upcoming show. He looks over his shoulder at Steve. “You hung it up?”

Steve nods, “I had to.”

“What time do you work tomorrow?”

His brows furrow at the question. “Not until the afternoon. Around one, I think.”

Eddie nods. “Good, ‘cause you’re gonna need a lotta time to get the feeling back in your legs when I’m done with you. C’mere, princess.”

True to his word, Steve wakes up the next morning alone and incredibly sore. Neither of those things are unusual as of late, and Eddie always leaves him a note letting Steve know where he’s going—not that it ever changes. He continues with his usual morning routine—eating, his daily run, showering, getting ready for work—before he grabs his keys and heads out the door to drive to work.

This routine continues over the next couple days. Steve’ll go to work and later on, Eddie’ll climb into his bed in the middle of the night to sleep. If neither of them are too tired, they’ll fool around a little bit but they’ve done nothing as intense as that night Eddie told him about the gig. 

Eddie comes by Steve’s apartment earlier on Friday, around nine o’clock. He’s carrying an armful of clothes for Steve to pick and choose from so he blends in with the rest of the crowd that’ll be at the show. He doesn’t stick around, though, since he and the rest of his band are heading up to the venue early to stay the night in town. Steve kisses him as he leaves, promising to be there as soon as the doors open so he can get a spot right in front of the stage. Eddie grins at that, patting his cheek before he leaves. 

He finally decides on an outfit after trying on a few different combinations and lays it out for the next day. Steve flits around his apartment to keep himself entertained before he gives up altogether and goes to sleep. He has the day off on Saturday so he sleeps in a little later than normal. He makes himself a quick breakfast and, after keeping himself entertained for a few hours, gets dressed in the outfit that he picked out the night before—a cropped Iron Maiden shirt, ripped black jeans, the Doc Martens that Eddie left at his apartment, and Eddie’s Dio vest. He stares at himself in the mirror. He definitely thinks he looks hot and Eddie’s absolutely going to go crazy over it. 

He leaves his apartment with more than enough time to make it to the venue. He’s aiming to be one of the first people in line to get in, so this works out perfectly for him. Two hours later, he’s waiting in line behind three other people. It’s currently a little past seven—the doors don’t open until eight and the concert doesn’t start at nine, but Steve doesn’t mind waiting. He knows Eddie’s worked his ass off for a chance like this and Steve’s gonna support him every step of the way. 

Waiting goes by pretty fast. He spots Robin and Nancy—both dressed similar to him and looking absolutely fucking incredible. Robin’s wearing black leather pants paired with a loose Metallica top and a studded jean jacket she probably stole from Eddie. Nancy, on the other hand, is wearing a full leather ensemble: a skirt over fishnet tights, high heeled black boots, a cropped tank top, and a jacket that she’s wearing off the shoulders. He waves at them when they notice him. 

It’s not long after that the doors open for the show. He gets a spot right in front of the stage, making sure to spread out so he can save room for the girls. He gets their attention as they squeeze their way through the crowd. 

Robin gives him a big hug before slinging her arm back around Nancy’s shoulder. “Damn, Steve, you clean up nice.”

He grins. “Yeah, you two aren’t looking so bad yourself.”

Nancy rolls her eyes but leans into Robin. “There’s no way I could say no when Eddie tracked us down and told him about the gig. I wouldn’t dress like this for just anyone.”

“It’s a good look on you, Wheeler,” Steve tells her, laughing when she smacks him on the arm. “I’m serious! Metal suits you.”

“Yeah, I don’t think so,” she says lightly, unable to stop smiling. “I’ll keep it around if Eddie and his band ever make their way toward Boston, though.”

Robin grins. “With a crowd this big I’m sure he will. I didn’t think this many people would show up for a band they’ve never heard of before. I guess they all just wanted something to do.”

“I don’t really pretend to understand anything about the metal scene, or whatever it’s called,” Steve responds with a shrug. “I just listen to Eddie talk about it. I try to pay attention, but it’s more him talking at me and I just nod along because I’m completely lost.”

“That’s how you are with most everything,” Robin teases, moving out of his range so he can’t reach her.

He rolls his eyes while she laughs. Steve shifts on his feet, unable to stop himself from fidgeting as they get closer and closer to nine o’clock. It’s been a long time since he’s been to a concert—ever since he learned about an alternate universe underneath his hometown, they haven’t really been on his mind. He’s filled with a mixture of nerves and excitement. He idly listens to Robin and Nancy talk beside him, having to raise their voices in order to be heard over the rest of the crowd and heavy rock music that’s blaring over the speakers while the crew does a last minute check of the equipment on stage.

His stomach drops with nerves when the lights dim and the music cuts off. Robin punches him in the arm excitedly, and when he looks over at her, she’s practically beaming. He feels the same exact way. The tight crowd around them starts to cheer, and Steve’s right there with them. His voice already feels raw and hoarse, he can only imagine how he’s going to sound by the end of the night. He feels jittery with nerves as he waits for Eddie and his band to walk out on stage.

Steve’s heart catches in his throat when he catches sight of his boyfriend. Eddie walks to the center of the stage with a grin, looking like he was born to be up there. He has his guitar slung over his shoulder, holding it out in front of him. He’s wearing one of the Corroded Coffin shirts he and his bandmates made—a cutoff style shirt that shows off some of the tattoos that he has down his sides—and a pair of leather pants. Steve can’t take his eyes off him. Eddie catches his gaze and throws him a wink, his grin spreading across his face. He blows the girls a kiss when he notices them standing next to Steve.

Eddie takes the mic with one hand. “Hiya, everybody!” he greets, the energy and excitement clear in his voice. “We’re Corroded Coffin and you’re about to have your fucking world rocked!”

The cheering gets even louder and Steve’s smiling so much it’s starting to hurt. He’s overwhelmed by the support Eddie’s band is already getting, despite being basically unknown. Eddie winks at the crowd before reaching for the guitar pick he wears around his neck, yanking it off. He throws Steve another wink before strumming out the first chord of their set, a heavy and loud note that has the crowd going absolutely wild.

Steve’s seen Eddie perform before—multiple times, actually. He has a raw magnetism that attracts attention, and people just can’t keep their eyes off him. Steve can’t really blame them. He felt the same way the first time he sat in on a Corroded Coffin rehearsal. Eddie’s friends probably thought he looked so fucking stupid, the way he was staring at Eddie like he was the only thing in the whole world. And to Steve, he kind of is. When Eddie performs, he gets so lost in it. He has so much energy, love, and passion and it translates into whatever he does. Steve can’t look away from him.

He’s never seen Eddie like this, though—on a stage performing for a crowd of at least a hundred people. He belongs up there, Steve thinks as Eddie and his band play song after song. The screams and shouts of the audience are drowned out by the sheer volume of Eddie’s guitar solo. Steve can’t take his eyes off his boyfriend’s hands, amazed that he can remember something that looks so difficult. He’s grinning when Eddie starts to bang his head along to the music, his hair flying. The rings on his fingers catch the light as they flash over the stage. They gleam as they move rapidly over his guitar. Eddie returns to the microphone to sing the next verse, his voice enough to make Steve weak in the knees. It’s hoarse and raw but melodic and beautiful. When Eddie opens his eyes, his gaze falls on Steve. He grins at him, flashing him another quick wink. Steve’s heart stutters in his chest. Eddie really is a fucking sight to behold. Steve wouldn’t be surprised if other people were falling in love with his boyfriend in the same moment he’s realizing he’s already in it.

He’s stupidly, unequivocally, one hundred percent, absolutely head over heels in love with Eddie Munson. He should’ve seen it coming from miles away, since he was basically ready to put a name to the feeling just a week after he and Eddie first got together. The fact that he didn’t feel this strongly about Nancy should’ve tipped him off as well, considering she was his first love. Eddie is…well, he’s everything. He’s supportive of Steve’s desires to stick around until the kids head off to college and isn’t bothered by the fact that Steve isn’t quite sure what he wants to do in the future. He sits through movies like Footloose and Grease, and only complains a little bit when Steve makes him listen to Journey or ABBA. He constantly blows Steve’s mind in bed while still maintaining boundaries and never pushing Steve out of his comfort zone. He’s gorgeous and kind and funny and perfect and passionate and driven and—

And Steve loves him. He loves him, he loves him so fucking much and he’s gonna tell him after the show.

They get pulled back for an encore after they finish their set. Eddie walks back out on stage, his hair now up in a ponytail, and plucks out a few heavy notes that Steve actually recognizes isn’t something he wrote, but a cover. He exchanges excited glances with Robin and Nancy as Eddie shreds the opening solo of “Master of Puppets” by Metallica—the same song he played to save their lives in the Upside Down. The response of the audience is overwhelming, with at least half of the crowd screaming the lyrics alongside Eddie. Steve can’t help but join in with the girls when they start dancing and banging their heads along with the music. Steve’s really glad that Eddie decided to play this, giving him a better memory to associate the song with. Plus, he’d really been wanting to see him play it after Dustin talked about it nonstop.

Eddie closes out their set with another song that Steve recognizes—“I Speed at Night” by Dio, off of his favorite album of all time, The Last in Line. Steve grins, knowing it’s probably Eddie’s favorite song of all time and he must be having the time of his life being able to perform it on stage for a crowd. The audience response is just as enthusiastic as it was for his last cover, and they shout the lyrics just as loud this time around. Steve even finds himself singing along to the parts he knows, since Eddie’s played him this song more times than he can count.

They take their bows, waving to the crowd as they exit backstage. The lights come back on and the music resumes, signaling the definitive end of the set. The crew starts to clear the stage of the equipment, with the help of the rest of the band. He doesn’t miss the wink Eddie sends him when he catches sight of him. It doesn’t take them that long to bring all the instruments and amps backstage. Steve feels wired up. He’s exhausted from standing and dancing for the past three hours but Eddie’s set was like a straight shot of energy. He bounces on the balls of his feet while the crowd disperses around them. Some head backstage while the majority file out of the venue. Steve digs out the pass Eddie gave him that would get him backstage, watching as the girls do the same. Nancy excuses herself quickly to use the bathroom, leaving Robin and Steve alone by the stage while they wait for her.

“So that was awesome,” Robin says, her eyes wide.

Before the words are out of her mouth, Steve’s agreeing, “So fucking awesome.”

She leans against the stage. “Honestly, I could barely understand a single thing that came out of his mouth,” Robin admits, “but I don’t think I’ve had more fun.”

“You get used to it,” Steve tells her, glancing around to look for Nancy. “I’ve seen the lyrics to a lot of them so I kinda just…know them.”

“Yeah, you’ve got boyfriend privileges,” Robin teases, knocking her shoulder against his. “Speaking of, how’re you feeling?”

Steve laughs, throwing his head back. “Unbelievably proud,” he admits honestly, his face flushing slightly in embarrassment but Robin just smiles softly. “I also feel hopped up on so much adrenaline right now and I really wanna see my boyfriend. Nancy needs to fucking hurry up.”

“Hey, that outfit she has on isn’t a walk in the park to get in and out of,” Robin defends, hitting him lightly on the arm. “Cut her some slack. It’s not everyday that the lady wears full leather.”

Steve snorts just as Nancy appears from the bathroom. She hurries over to them as fast as she can in her heels, pulling her jacket back on. “Sorry!” she squeaks, falling into line beside Robin. “This skirt is not easy.”

“Told you.”

“Shut up.”

Nancy rolls her eyes fondly. “Well, are we going to see Eddie or what?”

Steve turns on his heels and leads them back toward where he saw some of the crowd disappear after the show ended. It doesn’t take them that long to find Eddie backstage. He’s leaning against the wall with the rest of his band, surrounded by a decent crowd of fans—mostly women—who ended up with backstage passes to meet Corroded Coffin. The girls, and even one or or two guys, fan over him. Eddie doesn’t seem bothered by the attention. No, it’s the opposite. He looks exactly where he belongs—being gushed over by fans for his music and looks. Steve smiles to himself. There’s a little inkling of jealous tugging at the back of his mind but he stays off to the side, watching with a smile as he leans against the wall. Nancy and Robin hover beside him. It’s Eddie’s night. He’s not going to ruin it because he can’t handle girls fawning over his boyfriend who doesn’t even like women. 

One of the girls places her hand on Eddie’s chest. She twirls a strand of his hair that’s fallen free from his ponytail with the other. “My friends and I are gonna go out for drinks if you boys wanna join us,” she poses, smiling prettily as she bats her eyelashes.

Robin snorts, covering her mouth so she doesn’t attract anyone’s attention. Steve can’t help but snicker with her. Her head falls onto Steve’s shoulder as she tries to keep quiet.

Eddie catches sight of Steve then, his grin splitting wider across his face. “Sorry, darlin’, but you’re not my type,” he says apologetically. “Now if you’ll excuse me.” He gives the crowd a deep bow before he pushes his way through the throngs of people. Steve smiles when his boyfriend approaches him. “Hi, baby,” Eddie greets, hooking a finger through one of Steve’s belt loops and completely ignoring Nancy and Robin beside him.

Steve doesn’t have time to say anything back before Eddie’s lips are on his. He melts into the kiss, not even caring that there’s about twenty people watching them—or that Robin and Nancy are staring at them with matching unimpressed looks. His arms wrap around Eddie’s neck, moaning softly when Eddie’s hands slide over his waist, exposed due to the crop top he stole from Eddie. He parts his lips so Eddie can lick inside his mouth. Eddie’s fingernails cut into his skin, dragging across the flesh as he yanks Steve closer. The noise he makes that time is much louder. Eddie grins and pulls back, but not before catching Steve’s bottom lip between his teeth. 

“Jesus fucking Christ, Stevie,” Eddie growls, keeping his grip tight on his waist. “I’ve been wanting to do that all fucking night. You look…fucking hell, you look insanely hot in my clothes—the crop top, the ripped jeans, the boots, the vest? I’m in fucking heaven, doll.” His head briefly ducks down to his neck and Steve jolts when his teeth sink into his skin. He licks over the mark to soothe the pain. “Everyone’s been staring at you so I gotta let them know you’re mine.”

Steve swallows thickly as Eddie kisses back up his neck. His eyes slide over to the crowd of fans—and Eddie’s bandmates. Gareth and Jeff look completely unbothered, chatting with some of the girls who aren’t staring at Steve and Eddie. Steve figures that checks out—they’ve known about them for a couple weeks now and have always known about Eddie’s preference for men. He feels hot under the gazes of complete strangers. It’s a little exciting and nerve wracking to be so open like this, but they’re outside of Hawkins. No one’s gonna know them here.

Eddie follows his line of sight and grins devilishly. Both of his hands slide into the back pockets of the jeans Steve’s wearing. “Sorry, folks, as much as I would love to stay and chat, I gotta get this one home.” He jerks his thumb toward Steve. “Gareth and Jeff’ll take good care of the rest of ya.”

He drags Steve away by the wrist, stopping short when Nancy clears her throat. She flashes him a pointed look, her brows raised. Eddie spins around, letting go of Steve’s wrist to spread his arms out. “Ladies,” he says sweetly, hugging each of the girls tightly. “I’m so happy you made it, really I am. It means a lot to me, I’m serious. You both look stunning and I’m so sorry to just leave you hanging, but I have to get Steve in a bed before I go fucking crazy. We can do something tomorrow to celebrate—I promise. Love you guys!”

Eddie leaves the girls stranded in the hallways as he leads Steve out of the venue, his hands never once leaving his hips. He kisses Steve on the side of the neck once they’re outside. “Where’s your car, baby?” he asks, sliding one hand over Steve’s abdomen and down the front of his jeans. He’s already half-hard because of the kiss so he whimpers softly when Eddie presses the heel of his palm in between his thighs.

“U-um,” Steve says eloquently, his head going a little dizzy. He points toward his BMW. “It’s the lone car in that far corner.”

“Perfect.”

So much for telling Eddie after the show, Steve thinks. It can wait until after they’ve had sex.

Eddie drags him toward the car, his grip tight on his wrist. He feels Steve up for his keys before pulling them out. He waits as Eddie gets his car unlocked. Steve grunts in surprise when Eddie manhandles him into the backseat. He shoves Steve onto his back and pulls the door shut after he climbs inside. Eddie bends over him, claiming his lips in a rough kiss. Steve moans into it, sliding his hands under Eddie’s shirt to ghost over his abdomen. Eddie catches his bottom lip between his teeth and tugs, drawing another noise from Steve. 

He pulls back, sitting with his back pressed against the door. Eddie crooks his finger at Steve and he sits up, crawling over to his boyfriend. He straddles his thighs and kisses him. Eddie holds Steve around the throat, keeping him in place as he licks into his mouth. His other hand dips between his thighs and Steve can’t help but rut against it. Eddie smirks into the kiss, pulling back and tightening the grip he has on Steve’s throat. He inhales sharply, excitement running up his spine. Eddie pulls his hand out from between Steve’s thighs, holding up one finger and rotating it in a circle. It takes Steve a second, but he understands that Eddie wants him to turn around. He does and Eddie yanks him toward him so his back is flush against Eddie’s chest. The hand is back on his throat in no time, squeezing softly as Eddie’s other hand slides up his shirt to brush over his nipple.

“I know I said I had to get you in a bed, but I wouldn’t survive the two hour drive back to Hawkins,” Eddie growls into his ear. Steve whimpers when his fingers pluck at his nipple, the other hand adding more pressure to his throat. “I’m not gonna fuck you in here—no matter how hot that’d be. I’m just gonna get you off, quick and dirty. Then I’ll fuck your brains out when we get back to your apartment.”

Steve moans at the promises, leaning his head back on Eddie’s shoulder. “Y-yeah. Please.”

Eddie chuckles. “You’re so cute when you beg, princess. Do it again for me.”

“Eddie, please,” Steve obeys, gasping when the hand on his throat tightens. It sends waves of pleasure down his spine. “Please, I n-need you to touch me. I need it so bad. I’ve been thinking about your hands all night. I want—I need them on me. Please.”

He hums into Steve’s neck, kissing the exposed skin above his own fingers. “Just beautiful,” he mutters, popping open the button of the jeans Steve has on. He drags the zipper down slowly, making Steve squirm in his lap. Eddie laughs under his breath, pushing his jeans and boxers down just enough to get his cock free. Steve moans softly, screwing his eyes shut as Eddie’s fingers slide up the length.

“Hey, sweetheart,” Eddie says softly. “Hold out one of your hands.”

Steve opens his eyes and furrows his brows in confusion, but he does what Eddie asks. The hand around his neck slips away. Before Steve can ask what Eddie’s doing, he starts to pluck off his rings one by one. Then he slides each one onto one of Steve’s fingers, causing his breath to catch. Steve glances at Eddie, who smiles back at him and kisses him on the cheek.

Eddie whispers, “For safekeeping,” before slotting their lips together. 

His eyes flutter shut as Eddie’s hand wraps around his cock. The other takes its place back around his neck. Eddie’s tongue curls into his mouth as he starts to slowly jerk Steve off. The pace quickly picks up—Eddie did promise him quick and dirty, after all. Steve gasps, letting out a choked moan as the hand on his throat adds more pressure. Eddie pulls away from him, letting Steve rest his head back on his shoulder as he moves his hand, rubbing his thumb over the slit of his cock. He whimpers, grinding back against Eddie’s hips. The hand around his cock squeezes tighter, drawing out another moan.

“You look so fucking pretty like this, Stevie,” Eddie whispers into his ear, his breath hot against his neck. “I wanna watch you cum—you always look so good when you do.” He adds more pressure to Steve’s throat. “I wanna be inside you, too. God, if I thought about it I would’ve brought shit with me so we could do it right here and now but it completely slipped my mind, what with all the rehearsing and shit. I miss it, baby. I’m sorry I haven’t been around much lately.”

Steve whines, pushing his hips forward to meet the pace of Eddie’s hand. “It—it’s okay. You don’t need to—fuck . You don’t need t-to apologize,” he assures him, his voice hoarse. “I’m proud of you, and I-I love that you’re getting to follow your dreams. As long as you don’t forget about me in the process.”

“Never.”

Steve smiles, sighing with pleasure as Eddie’s hand speeds up. He’s already so close, since the pace his boyfriend set right off the bat was brutal, but the added pressure on his throat is keeping him right on the edge of release. Eddie rubs his thumb over the head of Steve’s cock, adding a new kind of friction that makes his head spin. Steve angles his head toward Eddie as best he can. Eddie grins when he catches his eye, capturing his lips in a kiss that has Steve’s toes curling. The hand around his cock doesn’t let up, and he can feel his resolve slipping. 

He whimpers, sliding his hips into Eddie’s fist. “Baby,” he chokes out, “I’m close. I’m—fucking hell, I’m gonna cum.”

Eddie grins wolfishly, “That’s right, doll. Be a good boy and cum for me.”

That’s what does it. He drops his head back on Eddie’s shoulder, his mouth open in a silent cry as he spills over Eddie’s hand. His boyfriend doesn’t let up, moving his hand through Steve’s orgasm. He only lets up when Steve begs him to stop, wincing at the oversensitivity. He slides his hand off Steve’s spent cock, bringing it to his lips. Steve watches as Eddie licks his cum off his fingers, lust tugging harshly in his gut. Eddie winks at him. Steve can’t help but turn himself around and kiss him, unbothered by the taste of himself on Eddie’s tongue. Eddie snakes an arm around his waist to pull Steve flush against his chest. 

“You’re driving,” Steve tells him as he draws back, readjusting his clothes. “You’ll get us home faster.”

“You’re pretty hot when you get bossy, honey,” Eddie smirks, leaning back to take in the sight of Steve. “I should let you do it more often.”

Steve rolls his eyes, kissing Eddie one last time before he climbs over the center console and into the passenger seat. He waits for Eddie to join him, nearly getting kicked in the face in the process. Eddie laughs through an apology, catching Steve by the wrists when he swings at him. He leans forward and kisses him and Steve hates that it makes him immediately forgive him. Eddie pulls back and takes the keys he stuck in his pocket. He shoves them into the ignition and starts the car, backing out of the parking spot and pulling out on the road back toward Hawkins. 

“Are you sure they’re okay without you?” Steve asks, glancing over his shoulder at the venue. He also feels a little bad for abandoning Nancy and Robin.

Eddie hums, reaching over the console to rest his hand in Steve’s lap. Steve tangles their fingers together. “Yeah, babe. I helped them load everything in the van after the set ended and gave Jeff my keys. They already knew I was gonna drop them for you as soon as I saw you. I also don’t like women so what would I even gain from sticking around?”

Steve leans against the window, looking up at the clear night sky. “I dunno. I just thought since it’s your first show and all.”

“That’s why we came up early,” Eddie explains. “We celebrated that last night. I wanted to spend tonight with you.”

It would be the perfect time to say it, Steve thinks. To tell Eddie that he loves him. But he doesn’t. He stays quiet, staring out the window while Eddie pulls his hand away to fiddle with the radio to find a station that he deems listenable. He takes Steve’s hand again once he picks a station. Steve vaguely recognizes the Springsteen song as it plays faintly over the speakers. 

After a few minutes of silence, Eddie glances over at him. Steve catches just a hint of nervousness in his expression when he asks, “So, uh. What’d you think? I know you don’t normally like that kind of music but you and the girls looked like you were having a blast.”

“I was,” Steve replies immediately. “It was incredible. You were incredible.  I seriously think you belong up there.” Eddie squeezes his hand tightly. Steve brings it to his lips, kissing the back of Eddie’s hand. “I particularly loved the encore. Your songs are amazing, obviously, but I’m glad I finally got to witness what Dustin got to see in March—and this time, without the risk of death. And then the Dio song…I know it’s your favorite. I bet it was so much fun to play for a crowd.”

They come to a stop at a red light. It’s nearing midnight, so the road is empty. Eddie leans across the console and kisses Steve softly. Steve melts into it, bringing and hand up to the side of Eddie’s face. By the time they separate, the light’s turning yellow before it’s back to red again. 

Eddie gives Steve’s hand another squeeze. “Yeah, it was…God, it was indescribable. I really hope I get to do that again.”

“Me too. I think you’d make a pretty good rockstar.”

“Oh yeah?” Eddie chuckles, pressing his foot on the gas when the light turns green again. “You’d make a good groupie.”

Steve laughs, shifting in the seat so his body is angled towards Eddie. “I am pretty good at getting into your pants.”

“It’s one of the things you’re best at.” Steve rolls his eyes, never once taking his eyes off Eddie’s profile. The song fades into a new one. It takes him a second to recognize it—“Keep On Loving You” by REO Speedwagon. Steve thinks it’s pretty fitting. He glances at Steve. “Hey if…if by some miracle I actually do make it, would you come with me? I don’t know where it’d take me—on tour across the country, some seedy recording studio in California or wherever, who fuckin’ knows. But I know I want you with me.”

Steve’s heart hammers against his chest like a drum. He should say it. What he says is, “I’d go with you in a heartbeat,” which is almost the same. Eddie looks over at him, clear shock on his face. Steve just smiles at him—soft and smitten. “I would. I’d drop everything, not that there’s anything to really drop.”

“You’re killing me, Steve,” Eddie groans, rubbing his hand down his face. Steve can tell he’s blushing. “I had a plan. I was gonna screw the life outta you when we got back to yours, but now I’m feeling like I should be gentle.”

Steve laughs, running a hand through his hair. “If it helps, I really want you to screw the life out of me You got me going, babe. We can do gentle tomorrow.”

“Good, because I have plans.”

He snorts, tilting his head to the side so he can stare out the window. He forces himself not to fall asleep on the drive back to his apartment, focusing instead on whatever song happens to be playing on the radio and singing along under his breath. Eddie humors him sometimes, singing along to Duran Duran or The Police or whatever artist happens to be on that Steve loves and Eddie hates. It makes him feel warm all over and he knows he should say it—tell Eddie he loves him—but he can’t make the words come out. 

It’s a little after two in the morning when Eddie parks Steve’s BMW in front of his apartment. He climbs out of the car, circling around to the passenger side just in time to shove Steve up against the door, kissing him with enough force to knock the air out of his lungs. Steve wraps his arms around Eddie’s neck while his hands slide over Steve’s bare waist. Eddie’s nails dig into Steve’s flesh, scratching over the scarred skin. Steve makes a soft sound, gasping when Eddie kisses down the column of his throat. His teeth scrape over his jugular, nipping ever so slightly at the skin. Steve just knows he’s going to be embarrassingly bruised tomorrow. Thank God he has the day off. 

Eddie pulls back, spinning Steve around. He places a hand on the back of his neck. His chin rests on Steve’s shoulder. “Let’s get inside, babe,” Eddie whispers into his ear. “Any more of this and we risk getting caught. I’ve managed to stay out of jail so far—I don’t wanna mess up my record.”

Steve nods, letting Eddie direct him towards his apartment. He places the keys in Steve’s palm, brushing his lips against the back of his neck as he unlocks the door. Eddie holds onto the back of Steve’s neck with a grip that has him weak in the knees. He guides him inside Steve’s apartment, the tips of his fingers pressing into his skin. It’s dizzying, really. Before he can pocket his keys, Eddie spins him around. He all but slams him against the wall, the hand on the back of his neck sliding around to press hard against his throat. Oh yeah, this is exactly what he wanted. Steve’s keys drop to the floor but he barely even notices. He’s too focused on the almost euphoric feeling of Eddie’s hand around his neck, squeezing hard enough to make Steve’s vision a little too blurry.

It feels good but, “R-red,” he chokes out and the pressure is immediately gone.

“Shit.” Eddie’s hands instead cup his neck, his fingers gently ghosting over the column of his throat. “I’m sorry. Are you okay?”

Steve nods, taking a second to clear his throat. “Yeah,” he assures him, pulling him closer by hooking his fingers into his belt loops. “It felt good, it was just a little too hard.”

Eddie nods, kissing Steve’s throat almost apologetically. His pulse jumps when his lips trail up the side of his neck, his breath against his skin enough to make Steve shiver. The hand wraps back around his neck, applying enough pressure to feel good but not so much that it hurts to breathe. Eddie kisses him, licking into his mouth as he gasps when Eddie squeezes his neck briefly. 

His head fills with static as Eddie kisses him. Steve’s body feels like pins and needles as the hand that isn’t around his throat slides up his shirt. Eddie’s fingers brush against his nipple, tugging harshly on the bud. It makes him jerk, moaning into the kiss. Eddie hums and draws back, catching Steve’s bottom lip with his teeth as he does—like always.

“Will you let me fuck your face?” 

The question has Steve reeling. He’s nodding before he can even think about it—not that he really needs to. Ever since Eddie mentioned it all those weeks ago, when Steve gave his first blowjob, it’s always been in the back of his mind. Eddie smirks, switching their places as he kisses Steve lazily. Steve stares up at him as he drops to his knees. Eddie slides a hand through his hair and tugs his head back, exposing the line of his throat. He grins—a predatory sort. 

“Baby, you know I need to hear you say it still,” Eddie purrs, eyeing over the bruising column of Steve’s throat.

“I want it,” Steve says automatically, his gaze locked with Eddie’s. “I want you to fuck my face.”

“Good boy.” He releases his grip on Steve’s hair, instead moving his hands to the button on his pants. Steve watches with anticipation as Eddie pops it open. He slides the zipper down even slower, grinning as Steve’s eyes trail the motions. He goes to slide the pants off but stops, tipping his head to the side as he observes Steve on the ground. “Hey, sweetheart, can you do me a favor?”

“Hm?”

Eddie nods toward him. “This is probably gonna get pretty messy and I really love that vest so can you take it off? I don’t really wanna have to scrub dried cum off of it.”

Steve rolls his eyes. “You’re unbelievable,” he groans, shrugging off the vest as throwing it across the room onto his couch. “Happy?”

“Actually, the shirt, too. I really like that one.”

“Jesus Christ.” Eddie laughs as Steve pulls the crop top over his head, tossing it back with the vest. “Better?” 

His eyes rake over Steve’s newly exposed skin. “Yeah.”

Eddie reaches out and pats Steve once on the cheek before sliding the leather pants down his legs. Steve’s eyes track the movement, trailing back up when Eddie goes to push down his briefs. Steve swallows instinctually at the sight of Eddie’s hard cock. He kicks his clothes to the side and grins down at Steve. 

“Since you won’t be able to talk,” Eddie starts, “I’m gonna give you new instructions if you need me to stop or slow down. You’re gonna be held in place so you won’t be able to pull yourself away if you need it. If I’m going too fast and you need me to slow down, dig your nails into my thigh or scratch me. I’ll be okay if you happen to draw blood. If you need me to stop completely because I’m hurting you in some way, just start hitting me. Like, fully fucking punch the shit out of me. Got it?”

Steve nods. “Yeah, I got it.”

Eddie grins. “Good. Then open that pretty mouth of yours for me, princess.”

Steve obediently parts his lips. Eddie grins as he grabs hold of Steve’s hair to keep him in place. He guides his cock into his mouth, sighing as he envelopes himself in the wet heat of Steve’s mouth. The weight of his cock is a welcome feeling on Steve’s tongue. He’s gotten used to having one in his mouth since he got on his knees for Eddie for the first time. It’s something he’s found he really likes. 

Eddie starts with shallow thrusts, keeping Steve’s head still while he moves his hips. Steve places his hands on Eddie’s thighs. He’d almost forgotten he’s still wearing Eddie’s rings. He looks upward, his own cock twitching at the sight of his boyfriend. His hair is still up in a ponytail so none of his features are obscured. His eyes are hooded and his teeth are biting into his bottom lip as he pushes into Steve’s mouth. Steve slides his tongue over the tip of Eddie’s cock, pressing hard against the slit.

He gasps at that, moaning softly. “Oh, I’m at my limit, baby,” Eddie announces, keeping a tight hold on Steve’s hair. “You know how to get me to stop.”

It’s the only warning he gets before Eddie shoves his cock deep into Steve’s mouth. It pushes well past the limits of his gag reflex, the tip pressing momentarily against the back of his throat. Steve has no choice but to sit there and take it as Eddie’s pace becomes relentless. He tries to keep his eyes open so he can watch Eddie’s face as he brings himself closer and closer to orgasm. Spit drips down his chin and from the corners on his mouth as Eddie uses him. He can barely breathe, but not in a sense that he needs Eddie to slow down. He feels lightheaded, a thrill running up his spine as Eddie pulls harshly on his hair. It’s enough to make him moan around Eddie’s cock, causing the other man thrust into his mouth particularly hard. Steve’s eyes practically roll back into his head as Eddie chokes him with his cock. 

Eddie groans. He moves his other hand from the wall behind him, threading it next to the one already in Steve’s hair. He cradles his head as he mercilessly pounds into his mouth. “I’ve been wanting to do this so bad, Steve. Watching you choking on my cock—Jesus, it’s just about the hottest thing I’ve ever seen.” Steve moans as Eddie’s cock repeatedly hits the back of his throat. He vaguely wonders if his gag reflex will be gone after this. “It won’t be— fuck—It won’t be long now, baby. Ever since I saw you when I…when I walked on stage, I’ve been thinking about this—about you.”

Steve preens at the praise, trying to use his tongue to the best of his abilities while Eddie fucks his mouth. “You’re fuckin’ obscene, Stevie. So good and so obedient for me.” He tips Steve’s head back slightly, his eyes fixed on the column of his throat as he keeps moving. It feels fucking incredible. “I’m close, sweetheart. I’m gonna—shit, angel, I’m gonna cum.”

The new pet name sends a thrill up his spine. He braces himself. Eddie’s thrusts become shallower as he chases his orgasm. His grip on Steve’s hair tightens, making it impossible for him to move away as he spills into Steve’s mouth. Steve swallows on instinct, using his tongue to chase every last drop as Eddie’s hips stutter to a stop. He slides his cock out of Steve’s mouth, giving him the opportunity to catch his breath. He wipes the spit from his chin with the back of his hand.  He coughs a couple times—if his voice wasn’t already hoarse after the concert, it certainly is now. His throat is raw and he can’t help but rub a hand over his neck. 

Eddie drops down on his knees in front of Steve and takes his face in his hands. He pulls him in for a kiss. Steve clutches onto Eddie’s arms, lightheaded over the fact that Eddie’s licking into his mouth after he just blew him. Eddie pulls back, still cradling Steve’s head in his hands. He smiles softly. 

“You okay?” he asks, sliding his thumb soothingly over Steve’s throat. “You did really well.”

Steve nods. “I’m okay.” He clears his throat again. “My throat’s gonna be sore for awhile though.”

Eddie smirks. “Yeah, it is.” He kisses Steve again, slower this time. “You really are amazing. I’m so lucky.”

Steve laughs and presses his forehead against Eddie’s shoulder. “Yeah, well. So am I.”

Eddie captures his lips again, kissing him slow and soft while he holds his face in his hands. He pulls away and leans back. Eddie pats him on the cheek with both hands before getting to his feet. He helps Steve up after him. “We’re not done just yet, Stevie. I did promise to fuck the life outta you. C’mon.”

He laughs as Eddie guides him back towards his bedroom. Steve takes the time to strip off his jeans and underwear, tossing them to the other side of the room where the rest of his dirty clothes are piled up. He sits himself on the edge of the bed while Eddie rifles through his nightstand, pulling out a condom and a half empty bottle of lube. He turns to Steve. 

“Nope,” he says, jerking his head to the side. “I lied when I said I wanted to get you in a bed. Up against the wall, babe.”

Steve rolls his eyes but does what he’s told. He leans against his wall, glancing up at Eddie when he boxes him in. He kisses him, excitement thrumming through his body when he hears the bottle snap open. Steve spreads his legs when Eddie’s fingers slip between his thighs. He gasps when Eddie’s finger presses gently against his hole, sliding inside with practiced ease. He doesn’t need as much prep as he used to, but it’s still one of Steve’s favorite things. Eddie mouths down his neck, leaving a few marks along the way. Steve moans when the finger inside him starts to move. Another finger pushes inside after a few minutes, then a third. They stretch and scissor Steve open, leaving him breathless. Eddie curls his fingers inside him, rubbing gently against his prostate. Steve cries out, his head falling back against the wall. 

“Fingering you always is so fun,” Eddie murmurs into Steve’s neck. “If I didn’t wanna be inside you so bad, I’d make you cum like this before finally fucking you senseless.” Steve whimpers, clenching around Eddie’s fingers at the mention of being inside him. “I hear you, angel, don’t worry. I’ll save that for another day.” Eddie slides his fingers out of Steve. He tears open the condom with his teeth and rolls it onto his cock, tossing the wrapper to the side. He uses the excess lube on his cock before wrapping his hands under Steve’s thighs. “Brace yourself, princess.”

Steve scrambles to wrap his arms around Eddie’s neck as he hauls him off the ground. His legs wrap around Eddie’s waist while Eddie keeps his thighs supported. He whines when Eddie’s cock presses against his hole. He screws his eyes shut as Eddie slowly pushes inside, sinking in inch by inch. Steve’s nails cut into Eddie’s shoulders when he bottoms out.

“Jesus Christ,” Eddie hisses into Steve’s neck, sinking his teeth into the skin. “You feel like fucking heaven.”

The praise sends a shiver down Steve’ spine. Eddie starts to move his hips at a steady pace. His head falls back against the wall. He’ll never be over how good it feels to have Eddie inside him. He doesn’t realize just how much he misses it when they’re apart. Sure, he’ll get himself off or finger himself, but nothing compares to the feeling of Eddie’s cock inside him. Steve moans and scratches his nails down Eddie’s back when he delivers a particularly hard thrust. He chants Eddie’s name like a prayer on his lips.

His pace picks up until Eddie’s slamming into him over and over again. Eddie spreads Steve’s legs apart, holding him open for his cock. Steve can’t think straight. All he can focus on is the intense pleasure that comes with Eddie inside him. He reaches for the elastic that’s keeping Eddie’s hair up. He pulls it free, sending Eddie’s hair tumbling over his shoulders. Steve threads his fingers through it. 

“Kiss me,” he begs, watching Eddie through hooded eyes. 

Eddie’s lips are on his before he can finish. He licks into Steve’s mouth, drawing out another sweet sound. It’s fairly sloppy, since the majority of Eddie’s attention is focused on pounding into Steve and making sure he doesn’t slip out of his grasp. He breaks the kiss to cry out when the head of Eddie’s cock begins to rub against his prostate. Steve’s hands stay in Eddie’s hair. He pulls particularly hard a few times, trying to rile up his boyfriend even more. He’s rewarded with a harder thrust each time. 

“Eddie, baby, it’s s’good,” Steve slurs, his eyes fluttering shut as Eddie’s cock drills into him. “You always—fucking Christ. You always fuck me s-so well. I need it harder. P-please.”

Eddie grins, kissing Steve just below the jaw. “Alright, but I gotta put you down for a second, ‘kay?”

Steve nods. Eddie kisses him as he pulls out. He lowers Steve to the ground. He spins him around so he’s facing away from Eddie. Eddie kisses him on the side of the neck before he knocks Steve’s legs apart. Steve puts his hands out, bracing himself against the wall as Eddie slides back inside him. He plants his hands on Steve’s waist, immediately setting a brutal pace as he rams into Steve. Steve nearly screams, scratching his nails down the side of his wall. He can’t think straight; the only thing on his mind is the stretch of Eddie’s cock inside him and how badly he wants to cum. Steve rests his forehead against the wall when Eddie starts pulling him back on his cock, causing him to meet his thrusts even harder each time. 

“You getting close, doll?”

Steve nods, unable to form any kind of coherent sentence. Eddie kisses the side of his neck. Both hands move away from their stations on Steve’s waist. One closes itself around his throat, squeezing just enough to make him dizzy. Eddie’s other hand wraps around Steve’s cock, jerking him hard and fast.

“That’s it,” Eddie whispers into Steve’s ear as he cries out. “You’re such a fucking sight, baby. C’mon, I gotta see you cum again. Be good for me, Stevie.” Steve’s brain goes fuzzy as the pleasure becomes borderline unbearable. Eddie’s hips thrust into him erratically, and even in his haze Steve knows that means he’s getting close as well. The hand on his cock doesn’t let up either. His thumb scrubs against the head, moving in a way he knows will make Steve scream—and it does. “Oh, that’s right, scream for me, baby. Scream my name as you cum. C’mon, I know you need it.” He punctuates the statement with a few harsh tugs of Steve’s cock. 

Steve’s hands curl into fists. He clenches tight around Eddie’s cock, which in turn makes the hand around his throat squeeze tighter. He rambles, “Eddie, Eddie, Eddie,” over and over again until he cums screaming, painting his wall with streaks of white. Eddie releases his throat, burying his face in the crook of Steve’s neck as he fucks him through his orgasm. He whimpers, legs shaking as he struggles to keep himself up. Eddie’s hands hold onto Steve’s waist to keep him supported. 

“I’m about to cum, angel, just hold on a little longer.”

Steve nods as best he can, resting his forehead against the wall. Eddie’s hips begin to stutter and that’s when Steve knows he’s at the edge. His nails cut into Steve’s hips and he bites down on his shoulder as he cums, burying himself deep inside of Steve. Eddie’s hips slow to a stop, kissing over all of the bite marks he left on Steve almost apologetically. He slides out carefully. Eddie staggers back a couple of steps. 

“Holy shit,” he mutters, gingerly removing the condom and tying it off. “That was…you’re incredible, babe. Fucking incredible.”

Steve laughs airily, pressing his forehead against the wall. “Speak for yourself,” he breathes out, struggling to catch his breath. 

He turns around, falling back against the wall to support himself. He watches as Eddie disposes of the condom. Eddie yawns as he grabs a clean pair of underwear from Steve’s dresser, pulling it on before tossing a pair to Steve. He catches them and carefully pulls them on, wincing as he pins and needle feeling in his legs. Steve makes his way toward his bed, not even caring if he looks like a newborn fawn learning to walk for the first time.

Steve takes a second to pluck all of the rings off his fingers, dropping them into the ashtray Eddie left for himself on his nightstand. He collapses onto the mattress, sliding all the way over toward the wall. He waits for Eddie, watching as he finally pulls the Corroded Coffin shirt over his head. He grabs a tissue off Steve’s dresser and cleans off his wall, dropping it into the trash. Eddie switches off the overhead light before he climbs into bed after Steve. He immediately wraps Steve up in his arms. 

“Eddie, it’s too hot for this.”

“I don’t care, Stevie. Now shut up, ’m fucking exhausted.”

Steve rolls his eyes affectionately. He squirms around in Eddie’s arms until his back is pressed against Eddie’s chest. He pulls one of Eddie’s arms over his waist. Eddie curls the other one underneath him. He could say it now, Steve thinks. But he doesn’t. Instead, he stares at the wall across from him, listening to Eddie’s breathing even out behind him until he eventually falls asleep. Steve sighs, forcing himself to follow his lead. 

It’s fine, there’s always tomorrow. He’ll tell Eddie in the morning.