when you know, you know ; steve harrington

sixteen - cookies and murder

"Dorothy, honey?"

Teddy slowly blinked awake, the familiar voice of Karen Wheeler cutting through the haze in her head like a beam of morning light. She sat up with effort, fingers clutching the blanket, disoriented but safe.

"Good morning, Mrs. Wheeler," she murmured, her voice scratchy and distant as she rubbed at her temple, a sharp wince catching her off guard.

Karen sat down gently on the edge of the bed, her eyes full of maternal concern as she reached out and touched Teddy's forehead.

"How's your headache, dear? That poor boy was traumatized after witnessing your bleeding nose. Including us. Especially the kids."

"I'm fine, Mrs. Wheeler," Teddy replied, brushing off the ache. "It's just a small headache."

"But you're getting it frequently nowadays," Karen said, her frown deepening with quiet worry. "Are you still taking those tablets prescribed for you?"

"Yeah," Teddy lied softly. Karen offered a weak smile, not quite convinced.

"Look here," Karen said, reaching out to gently squeeze Teddy's hand. "I know that things are hard for you. But life has to move on. If you wanna talk about something, please do. Just because I promised you I wouldn't share it with anyone doesn't mean we're not worried about you."

"I understand, Mrs. Wheeler," Teddy said in a small voice. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be," Karen murmured with warmth, ruffling her tangled hair. "Now, get dressed and go out somewhere. Relax a bit, and then come home."

Only one person made her feel relaxed. Only one name echoed in her mind, calm and steady: Steve Harrington. But... she didn't want to annoy him.
He'd never get annoyed though. That was the problem.

"Are you planning to go to The Family Video?"
Teddy's cheeks turned red instantly as Karen smirked, catching her in the thought.

"I guess I'm right," she said with amusement before exiting the room, leaving Teddy blinking in place.

Teddy had never really sought Steve out before. He always came to her. Always. But now, something pulled her—an urge, not quite desperation, but close enough to make her feel vulnerable.

With a sigh, she stood, heading to the bathroom to clean up.

⸻

After breakfast, Teddy drove herself to The Family Video. The building loomed ahead, warm lights glowing behind glass panes like a beacon in the dark. She paused outside, hand hovering near the door handle.

She was scared.

It was just Steve. Her Steve.
And still, she was scared.

Finally, she stepped in. The familiar jingle of the bell overhead broke the silence, and her eyes quickly landed on Steve and Robin picking out movies.

"Hey," she said, a hesitant smile tugging at her lips.

Both of them turned around, eyes widening in surprise. Especially Steve. Robin gave him a subtle nudge, not even trying to hide the smirk on her face.

"Hey," Steve said, walking toward her, his voice gentle. "What are you—what are you doing here?"

"Just thought like visiting you guys," she shrugged, waving at Robin who grinned back with bright energy.

"How's your headache? Do you feel better now?" Steve asked, concerned.

Teddy nodded silently, and Steve mirrored the motion.