( Steve stares at Eddie for a second or two, quiet. He wonders whatever gave Eddie the idea that he was a coward prone to running away, what with how the guy seemed to meet each and every insane challenge they faced head on. )

Okay, well, if I did everything right she should be safe now. Last time I threw this stupid party and uh... let's just say I think I fixed that when I totally avoided Nance this morning and told Tommy H. where he can shove it.

( And now comes Eddie's true test, though if he hadn't bailed after the time travel thing, Steve seriously doubts he'll bail now. )

There's a monster in the woods behind my house, ( he says without a trace of humor. ) It took Will Byers. It would've taken Barb tonight. If we're not careful, it could take us, too. We call it the demogorgon.