The Break (An Eddie Munson Story)

Chapter 53: Knowing Hurts Too Much

A/N: So, Eddie finally left Hawkins. Does anyone have any predictions or expectations of what might ensue, during his time in California?

As always, a huge thank you for continuing to support this book. Every comment and vote is greatly appreciated.

Disclaimer: I do not own the To Kill a Mockingbird quote.

*****

The first thing Eddie had noticed about Calfornia was the heat. Unlike his hometown, where it felt like it perpetually rained, his new place of residence was filled with sunshine and warm temperatures. Oh, how he had been deprived his whole life, he thought, every time he sat outside and basked in the sun, while sipping on a soda. Yes, California definitely suited the young brunet.

Of course, the transitional period had not all been plain sailing. There were days when he was so homesick, it felt like someone was stepping on his chest and no amount of warmth, could drive away the deep rooted cold from his bones. During those difficult days, getting out of bed felt like chore and the sunshine he had grown to love, had to be blocked out of sight.

Thankfully, Joyce Byers had understood how he was feeling all to well. Had she not gone through her own bouts of depression? She knew the signs well and did what she could to coax Eddie away from the darkness and back to feeling more like his usual self. Sometimes talking was enough and oh, did they talk about the Upside Down, the demogorgons and you.

He had inevitably learned of your time at the Byers residence, post-break up. Where you were now, Joyce knew but as Eddie had agreed, it was your choice whether to tell him that information or not. He was just grateful to know that you were safe and thriving. That was all he wanted for you.

Other times, when the words dried up and caught in his throat, Eddie just needed patience and an adult to take charge of the situation. Getting him to complete small chores around the home, had helped immensely. The routine had grounded the brunet and made each day feel a little less overwhelming, as he could predict what he would be doing at certain times.

He had not slept a wink the night before his first day at his new school. Too many what ifs swirled around his mind. Though Eddie had never been someone who wanted to fit in. The idea of being the target of a Jason Carver: California Edition, had made him feel anxious the entire car ride. By some miracle, it had been okay. He had been able to stay under the radar. There had been an incident someone called Angela but Eleven had begged Eddie not to say anything to her, so the brunet had held his tongue and not been met with the popular girl's wrath. Eddie hated bullies with a passion but the sight of Eleven's pleading gaze, was enough for him to relent and agree not to say anything on her behalf.

The weekend arrived eventually and there was homework to be done. Most of his classes seemed relatively straightforward. A glimmer of hope actually soaked within his chest, when he saw the curriculum for his final term. His biggest nemesis, Eddie deduced, would be English. It was the bane of his existence. No matter how hard he tried, he just could not get his mind to focus.

"What are you reading?" a voice interrupted his inner, despondent monologue.

Dropping the book to the ground, Eddie rolled onto his side to gaze up at the amused young boy, whom had perched himself on the corner of sturdy, wooden coffee table. "Nothing, at the moment." he grumbled.

Will merely offered the older brunet a smile. His friends had prepped him on how to handle Eddie's despondency. "Okay, different question- what are you supposed to be reading?" he picked up the discarded book, looking over the cover. "Ah, To Kill a Mocking Bird. It's a pretty good story."