( Only a few days ago, Eddie had been dismissing Henderson's claims of Steve being a badass and a changed man as impossible. But now, at the end of the goddamn world, Eddie clings to Steve's hand for dear life. It's his only lifeline and the only evidence that Eddie hasn't succumbed to his injuries just yet.

It might only be a matter of time, but at least he doesn't feel like it's so hopeless. Maybe they will get lucky, and that supergirl Max mentioned will find a way to rescue them. Or this may be their end. )

If you told me six months ago I would be hunkering down with you, I would have laughed hysterically and called you crazy. It's gonna sound weird, but...I don't think there's anyone I'd rather be with right now.

( He tells himself it's because out of everyone, Steve is the most capable of getting them both out of here with his athletic prowess and sheer will to survive. But he knows it runs deeper than that. There had been a spark back there - and not just the one he generated while hotwiring the bus. He thinks Steve must have felt it, too, despite Eddie's misguided attempts at nudging him back to Nancy out of fear that he was becoming too transparent. Now, though, there isn't a single solitary reason he shouldn't be honest. It's not like their chances of making this out alive are that great, anyway. )