His Salvation [Eddie Munson]

Chapter Three

Eddie's screams pierced my ears. My eyes shot open and I was fully prepared to defend myself from an attacker.

It was dark, but I could see Eddie still lying down in bed and screaming. No one was attacking him. I looked around the room and back at him in confusion. Then I realize what was happening. He's having a nightmare.

I sit up and grab his shoulders to shake him. I yell his name over and over. He must be somewhat aware that I'm here because he starts pulling on me. Wait, No. He's not pulling me to him; he's trying to pull himself towards me.

Instead of trying to yell over his screams, I start saying his name softly.

"Eddie. It's just a dream."

"Eddie."

"Eddie, wake up."

"Eddie, I'm here. It's Madi."

He starts to calm down. He eventually stops screaming and rests his head on my lap. I put my hands up as he shifts his head into a more comfortable position.

I'm taken back but how close we are. I'm sitting up with my back against his headboard and his head is resting on my lap. His ear is pressed against the top of my thigh and he was facing away from me. His arms are wrapped around my legs as if he's hugging me.

He's looking for comfort. I'm not sure if he's even aware of what he's doing because he hasn't even acknowledged what just happened.

I hear his soft breathing and realize he's back to sleep. His warm breath hits my bare skin, and it sends chills down my body. His body heat keeps me warm and I welcome it.

My mind is racing as I replay what just happened. His screams echo in my head. He was having a night terror. Whatever he experienced in The Upside Down must have been traumatizing.

I look down at him and he seems so small in this moment. My heart hurts for him because I can tell that subconsciously he's looking for comfort and safety.

When was the last time that someone held him? When was the last time that someone brought him comfort and made him feel safe? I can't remember the last time I had that either. I must be pouring my desire to be held and comforted into him.

I know his father wasn't great and he hasn't talked much about his mother, so who does he have? His uncle? No, not really. I shake my head in sadness and realize that he is alone in this world. I can understand that feeling and maybe that's why I'm here tonight. His loneliness is a direct reflection of mine.

I realize I'm still staring at him. His hair is covering most of his face and I gently brush it back. I don't stop myself when I start softly stroking his hair. I feel his body relax at my touch, and I know this is exactly what he needs.

My thoughts keep me up for a while, but I eventually drifted to sleep with one hand in Eddie's hair and the other resting on his back.