Through Laughter And Bruised Hearts

Building a new beginning

Weeks turned into months, and the world outside faded into a blur of laughter and shared moments. Richie and Eddie found a rhythm in their lives, navigating the ups and downs of their new relationship with an ease that felt both exhilarating and comforting.

They spent their days rediscovering Derry, exploring hidden corners of their childhood, and creating new memories that felt just as significant. One Saturday morning, they decided to visit the old arcade, the very place where they’d first felt the spark of their friendship.

As they entered, the familiar sounds of bleeps and bloops filled the air, wrapping around them like a warm blanket. Eddie grinned, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

“Ready to get your ass kicked at Street Fighter?” he challenged, nudging Richie playfully.

Richie feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. “I’ll have you know, I’m a master at this game. Prepare to be annihilated.”

Eddie raised an eyebrow, smirking. “In your dreams, Tozier.”

They settled in front of the machine, fingers flying over the buttons as they battled it out. Richie found himself laughing, the joy bubbling up inside him as he stole glances at Eddie, who was concentrating fiercely, his brow furrowed in determination.

“Come on, Eds! You can’t let me win that easily!” Richie teased, leaning in closer.

“Shut up!” Eddie shot back, his face breaking into a smile despite himself. “This is serious business!”

The game ended with Richie emerging victorious, and he couldn’t resist the urge to gloat. “I told you I was a master!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Eddie replied, rolling his eyes but unable to hide his laughter. “You’re lucky I let you win.”

They stepped away from the machine, and Richie felt a swell of happiness as he watched Eddie, his heart full. Moments like this, where laughter and lightness filled the air, made him forget about the darkness of the past. Here and now, they were just Richie and Eddie, happy and free.