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Chapter 39, Conspiracy Theories (Ep. 3: The Monster and the Superhero)
After hearing Eddie's recollection of what happened to Chrissy, the group thought it'd be best to stay together, so they settled on sleeping in Steve's car. It was packed to say the least, but they were comforted in knowing they were safe with each other.
Gwen had spent all night tossing and turning. Every time she closed her eyes, her nightmares were threatening to take over. Her mind had become her greatest enemy and it was frustrating that not even in her sleep was she able to escape the harsh reality that her life's become.
It wasn't like she could tell anyone, because nightmares were something everyone had, especially them after everything they went through. Even if her dreams felt too real and like she was experiencing everything again, she chose to stay quiet and focus on protecting Eddie.
As they walked out of Steve's car with groceries in hand, Dustin burst through the lake house like he owned the place.
Eddie jumped back, startled at their abrupt entry, "Jesus, man! Don't do that shit!"
Dustin smiled and held up his bag of groceries, "Delivery service!"
Gwen sent a small wave and held a six pack of beer into the air. It wasn't easy getting it, but since Steve knew the owner of the store, they were allowed to get as much as they needed.
"You're a lifesaver," Eddie breathed in relief and quickly took the six pack from her.
Dustin scoffs, offended at his sister being given the credit when he was the one that suggested getting more groceries for him. "Umm, what about me?"
Eddie was too engulfed in his drink and stuffing himself with cereal to say anything. There hadn't been much food in Reefer Rick's home except for candy and a few bottles of water, so drinking beer and downing an entire box of cereal felt like a feast.
The view of Lover's Lake offered a tinge of serenity as they took a seat around him. It was the calm before the storm and what better way to give the news than now?
"So, uh, we have some good news and some bad news," Dustin began. "How do you prefer it?"
"Bad news first," Eddie said with his mouth full. "Always."
"We tapped into the Hawkins PD dispatch with our Cerebro, and they's definitely looking for you."
Of course Eddie was expecting a manhunt, but he held on to the smallest bit of hope that somehow there would be evidence to prove his innocence. The thing was, everything changed after having learned of the existence of the supernatural. It seemed there wouldn't be a way to save his reputation after all.
"They're also convince you killed Chrissy," Gwen reluctantly added, and tried her hardest to avoid looking at the beers next to him.
She didn't drink again after Christmas. Picking up the habit was a thought she couldn't fathom, but after learning everything was back, it was now when she considered it. It sounded terrible, but the alcohol helped her deal with the mess she became. It set her thoughts on pause and for just a mere moment, she felt like her old self again.
