( Later it will be abundantly clear that Eddie should have turned on his heel and exited, but hindsight is nothing if not 20/20. Instead Eddie makes a much more questionable choice, fuelled entirely by rage and fear. He marches forward, like posture alone will give him the bravery he needs to confront– something. Whatever is making this happen. )
I'm. Serious!
( If his words crack as he shouts, it doesn't matter. If his hands shake as he clenches them on either side, he ignores it. If there's a wet lump in his throat that feels awfully threatening, it doesn't matter. He's focused.
Something can't happen to Richie, not now. Not when things were finally starting to get on the way to good again. Not with Eddie this close to drafting the perfect apology that would fix everything. )
Richie! Can you hear me?!
( ...If his voice drops abruptly in volume, it seems there's no one around the hear it: )
no subject
I'm. Serious!
( If his words crack as he shouts, it doesn't matter. If his hands shake as he clenches them on either side, he ignores it. If there's a wet lump in his throat that feels awfully threatening, it doesn't matter. He's focused.
Something can't happen to Richie, not now. Not when things were finally starting to get on the way to good again. Not with Eddie this close to drafting the perfect apology that would fix everything. )
Richie! Can you hear me?!
( ...If his voice drops abruptly in volume, it seems there's no one around the hear it: )
Just give him back.