Teaching | Eddie Munson

The Deal

"Are you sure you're going to be okay here on your own?" Max asked, her brow furrowed in concern. It was the same question she had asked for what felt like the hundredth time.

"Honestly, Maxine, I've planned a quiet evening—all alone with some books and music," Victoria reassured her sister, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. The truth was far different; tonight, she was meeting their neighbor, who had knocked on her door that morning, asking if she was up for a lesson. But she appreciated the rare opportunity to keep her plans under wraps.

Max sighed, the weight of her worry palpable in the air. "I just don't want you to be alone on a Saturday night." She pulled on her jacket, the fabric rustling as it slid over her shoulders. "You could always come with us." The thought of leaving her sister alone gnawed at her, especially given how Victoria had been acting lately—so unlike herself. Max sensed that the nightmares about Billy still haunted Victoria, but there was something more—something tied to her sister's shifting feelings for Eddie Munson.

"I don't think Lucas expected me to tag along when he invited you to the movies," Victoria laughed, shaking her head, her heart lightening just a bit. "He probably wouldn't appreciate me chaperoning your date."

"It's not a date!" Max declared, her voice firm, yet tinged with a hint of defensiveness. Victoria couldn't help but recall how she had reacted similarly when Steve had questioned her about hanging out with Munson. If this was how she sounded, it was no wonder Steve didn't believe her.

"Denial doesn't look good on you, Maxine," Victoria teased, hopping off her bed, her fingers dancing across her wardrobe as she tossed clothes onto the bed with frustration simmering beneath the surface.

"Coming from you!" Max laughed, disbelief coloring her tone as she observed her sister.

"What does that mean?" Victoria shot back, glancing at Max, who stood in the doorway, arms crossed, a mischievous smile playing on her lips.

"I don't know," Max shrugged, her laughter bubbling over as she suppressed a grin. Earlier that morning, she had been nearly certain she heard Victoria talking to Eddie. Now, watching her sister flustered over what to wear for a so-called quiet evening, Max felt the certainty solidify in her mind. "I think you should wear that white and pink striped crop top. Bye!"

With that, Max dashed out, leaving Victoria staring after her, a mixture of confusion and amusement swirling within her. Did she suspect that Vic was lying about staying in? No, that was ridiculous. Victoria pushed the thought away, shaking her head as she grabbed the striped crop top and some jeans. After all, Max was right—she looked good in it.

Moments later, Victoria stood in front of Munson's trailer, the chill of the evening air biting at her skin as she wrestled with the nerves bubbling in her stomach. Doubts crept in, making her question whether she had made a wise choice. She knocked quickly, hoping to silence the internal debate before it could take root. Her hands fidgeted in her pockets, anxiety prickling at the edges of her mind. Why was she so restless? She decided to blame it on the anticipation of learning something new; stepping out of her comfort zone had never been easy for her.

Before she could spiral deeper into her thoughts, Eddie's uncle opened the door, his face breaking into a warm, welcoming smile. "Hey there! How's it going?" he greeted, his voice like a balm in the cool air. Victoria couldn't shake the feeling that he was the only decent person in this neighborhood she called home.

"Eddie's in his room, probably still cleaning," Mr. Munson continued, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Poor boy's been bustling around since noon. I haven't seen him this motivated... well, ever." He rubbed his chin, trying to recall a time when Eddie had been so dedicated to tidying up. "You're a good influence. I might start inviting you over every time I need this place polished up!"