( There is something about the fiercely protective side of Steve that Eddie is eating up so thoroughly. He never had anyone give that much of a shit about whether he lived or died. Maybe Uncle Wayne, but there were days when it felt like Wayne kept him around out of obligation, making up for his deadbeat brother's failing as a father.

Wayne is bound by blood, but Steve? Eddie is just his dealer. )

Shit, Stevie. I'm happy you're on my side. ( Eddie knows he probably looks flustered, though he hopes he can blame it on the weed, which he hands off to Steve, shivering at the slight brush of their fingers during the exchange. ) I trust you, though, man. It's why I came here instead of, you know...trying to flee the town.