Teaching | Eddie Munson

The Snowman

In the entire history of the most awkward movie viewings, nothing could quite compare to the one currently unfolding in the Mayfields' trailer.

Victoria sat rigidly on the couch, attempting to keep her focus on the screen, but her mind was a swirling mess of thoughts that drowned out the film. She fought to resist the urge to steal glances at Eddie, but it was nearly impossible, especially with the weight of his gaze pressing down on her. Whenever she did succumb and looked his way, he seemed to instinctively turn his head, a move that only heightened her frustration. She was desperate to know what was racing through his mind—was he thinking about that moment in the kitchen? Because she certainly was, and it consumed her entirely.

What would have happened if Max hadn't walked in? Were things truly shifting between them, or was Eddie just playing a game to see how far she was willing to go? The thought of that possibility made her squirm in her seat. She was acutely aware of how close they had been, the electric current of his touch still lingering on her skin, and she was certain that, given half the chance, she wouldn't have listened to her rational mind urging her to stop. And judging by the way he had looked at her that moment, it didn't seem like he would either. The mere thought sent a rush of heat to her cheeks, causing her to wriggle again, which prompted Max to shoot her an irritated look as she adjusted her legs back onto Victoria's lap.

Eddie's eyes were fixated on her, clearly aware of her growing restlessness. This time, when their gazes locked, he held her gaze instead of looking away. A soft smile crept across his face, igniting a flutter in Victoria's chest. As they stared at each other she began to believe he might be caught up in the same thoughts swirling in her head. But as her heart raced and warmth flooded her cheeks, she was the one who broke the stare first, her pulse quickening as she looked away.

Max, meanwhile, tried her best to immerse herself in the movie, but she couldn't resist the temptation to sneak glances at her sister. Victoria was physically present but mentally elsewhere, and Max knew her sister too well not to recognize who occupied her thoughts. Max never had any reason to doubt Vic, when she was claiming there was nothing more between her and the long haired boy. Not that she actually ever believed her, but before this day, she had never witnessed any direct evidence for their affection. Apart from the constant whining of Vic, when she was claiming how much the boy was getting on her nerves. This was an obvious proof of her sister's fondness.

But seeing them now, looking at each other like they were communicating wordlessly, made Max positive about their mutual interest in each other. She just wished she didn't have to witness it. Judging by what she saw back in the kitchen and the looks they were sending each other now, she was sure they would be all over each other if it wasn't for her presence. The thought sent a shiver of discomfort through her, and she grimaced at the notion.

Victoria, ever perceptive, caught the look on Max's face and raised an eyebrow in question, ready to demand an explanation. Just as Max was bracing herself to deliver some snarky retort, Vic suddenly leaped off the couch, her eyes wide with shock.

"It's snowing!" she exclaimed, racing to the window to get a better look at the large, swirling snowflakes falling outside.

Eddie and Max exchanged amused glances, entertained by Victoria's sudden burst of energy, and Eddie's smile softened as he turned his attention back to her, warmth radiating from his expression.

"It's December, you know." Eddie remarked with a chuckle, taken aback by Victoria's animated reaction.

"I know! I just never got used to it...," Vic admitted, throwing a quick glance over her shoulder at him and Max before her attention snapped back to the mesmerizing view outside, her eyes wide with wonder.