Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It started off as a normal day in the office for Steve, just going over his case load for the day, looking for the pile of papers he had to file, when he saw his boss, Chief Hopper, walk into his office, a folder in his hand.

“Harrington, this case just came in. It’s about a bunch of murders in the area. They think it’s the work of a serial killer. I want you to work on it.”

Steve just nodded, holding the folder in his hand as he looked at his boss. “So when would you like me to start working on it, sir?” Hopper just gave him a tired look and right away, Steve knew it meant ASAP. He sighed quietly once the man left the room. It wasn’t like Steve didn’t have enough to do today. Now he has to work a new case on top of it?

Getting in his car, Steve drove to the little home at the end of the street. Something about it looked familiar but he couldn’t place it. Once he got there, he walked into the house. Jonathan was crying in the corner, talking to another detective. His heart dropped when he looked down on the hardwood floor, seeing brown curls peeking out under the whiter blanket. It was Nancy, Jonathan’s girlfriend. He knew both of them since high school, but after him and Nancy broke up, their friendship faded into them just being acquaintances. There was no bad blood between them, but not really a friendship either. It still hurt his heart to see his former friend dead and Jonathan upset.

“Jonathan,” Steve said, moving towards the tall, blonde man, “I’m so sorry.”

Jonathan collapsed into Steve’s arms, inconsolable. He sobbed, leaving a wet spot on Steve’s nice suit from his tears. “S- She’s dead! I came h-home and found her!”

Steve held Jonathan, holding him as he patted him comfortingly on the back, trying to calm him down. “Well, I’m on the case now, and I’m going to catch the bastard and bring him to justice.”

“What makes you think it was a guy? Women are capable of being murderers as well,” a voice behind them said.

Steve turned to see it was the coroner, his best friend, Robin. “You really need to say this now? In front of him?” He glared at the redhead. “Way to be professional.” He let go of Jonathan, looking at him. “I promise you, I’m going to catch this person,” he glanced at Robin as he corrected himself, “who did this. Nancy will get her peace.”

Jonathan nodded, sniffling and letting out little whimpers as he wiped his eyes. “Okay,” he replied, voice soft, “Thank you.”

Steve grabbed Robin by the arm, leading her out of the room. “Come on, let’s talk privately.”

Robin pulled her arm away. “Ow! Not that hard!” She sighed, holding her little notebook in her hand. “Okay, well I’m going to need to do a full examination of the body, but from what I’ve gathered, she was murdered.”

Steve cocked an eyebrow. “Real smart there, Sherlock Holmes. Next, are you going to tell me the color of the sky?”

“Don’t be a dingus!” Robin snapped, before letting out a sigh. “One of the officers said there was no sign of forced entry, but there was a window that was open. Jonathan said that Nancy liked to leave the window open to let fresh air in. We’re thinking maybe the killer came in that way?”

Steve nodded. “Makes sense. Okay, how did she die?” he asked. He didn’t want to look at the body, knowing it would make his heart hurt.

“Strangulation. They crushed her windpipe,” Robin explained, a shiver running up her spine as she thought about it, “Whoever did it must be very strong, or work out a lot.”

Steve opened the folder and nodded. “The same way the others died. My boss was right, this is the work of a serial killer. Now I have to catch him.”

“Them,” Robin corrected, earning an eye roll from Steve, “Now catch the killer so I know if it’s a man or woman.”

“It has to be a man, Robin,” Steve replied. He walked around the house, seeing the window open and examining it. It took a while, but once he got all the clues, he made his way out of the house and into his car, sitting in the driver’s seat as he looked over the file. ”Okay, all the victims are women, strangled to death by someone pretty strong,” he said to himself. Making his way out to his car still trying to figure out the motive behind the killings. He started the car and drove away, seeing the small crowd gathered outside the home. They were on the street, wanting to see what happened, why there was a detective and a coroner there. One of the bystanders there, unbeknownst to Steve, was the killer himself. He looked concerned, but had a different motive for being there; he wanted to watch the chaos he created unfold. The agent caught his eye, thought, with his big doe eyes and moussed up hair. He looked at him, interested, as the car drove away.

Chapter Text

He couldn’t sleep, couldn’t get himself to even close his eyes. All he did until the morning was stare up at the ceiling, thinking about that beautiful detective. He needed that man. To date him or fuck him or kill him, he couldn’t decide. Nope. It was kill. He wanted to kill that man. He couldn’t have the man sniffing around his crime scenes, trying to string the murders together, looking for clues, getting close to finding him. He had to find that man again, but how?

The sound of the alarm clock blaring next to him broke his train of thought. He sighed, reaching over and hitting the button on the top, turning it off. Another night without sleep. Well, he had more important things to do at night than to just sleep. No. Sleep is for the weak. For weak humans, and he… He wasn’t a weak human.

“Fuck…” He whispered as he got off the bed, walking over to the bathroom. Stepping into the shower, he turned the lever, cold water spewing out of the spout. It made him shiver, but he didn’t change the temperature. No, cold showers woke him up, helped prepare his body for the rest of the day ahead of him, and he had a long one. He washed himself, finding dried blood under his fingernails from his last victim. Maybe he should cut them, so they didn’t break the skin. Once he was cleaned, he stepped out, turning off the water and drying off.

He dressed himself, a nice pair of jeans and a button down shirt, then did his hair, applying hairspray to make the little wisps fall exactly where he wanted them to. He then cut his nails, applied his cologne and went to the kitchen. The table was already set, a single plate of lukewarm eggs and bacon were there. The coffee maker was still hot, nearly full, a single cup worth was taken out.

“I forgot she had early classes today,” he said, shaking his head, “I hope she’s not mad.”

Usually he makes breakfast for her. Every morning, like clockwork. He had been so entranced by that fucking detective, he completely forgot. He sighed, pouring himself a cup of coffee, then sitting down in his seat. He ate his breakfast, downing two cups of coffee as he read the paper.

“Serial Killer in Hawkins!”

It made him chuckle. Reading all the things the media was allowed to publish about the case, he kept shaking his head, laughing. Most of it was wrong. The one thing they got right was that the killer was a man, and very strong. As he read further, it talked about how the detective on the case, Detective Steve Harrington, was determined to catch the, in his words, ‘lowlife,’ who did this and bring him to justice.

When both the article and breakfast were finished, he folded the paper back up, putting it on the counter. He then washed the dishes, then grabbed his keys and went to work. It didn’t take too long getting there, just a few minutes, when he pulled up to the building.

The doorman smiled as he opened the door for the employee walking up. “Good morning, Mr-”

“Morning, Norm,” he replied, giving the doorman a wave as he walked inside.

Once in his office, he did his job as normal. Nobody suspected a single thing. In fact, he was called a star employee, very helpful. He even got the promotion he’s been aiming for, and he didn’t have to kill anyone for it.

The work day was long and boring, eight full hours of paperwork, phone calls and signing things. Eventually, five o’clock rolled around, and he was free. Out of the office, he waved goodbye to the doorman, then got in his car. As the engine roared to life, someone caught his eye. A beautiful strawberry blonde, walking to her car in the parking lot across the street.

“I have to have her,” he whispered to himself, waiting until the strawberry blonde drove away. He followed her, driving behind other cars to make it not obvious. It was a little longer of a drive than it is to get to his job. Eventually, she pulled up to a decent sized house, a little bigger than his, and got out, moving inside. Another car was there, a teenager walking out of the house, getting into the car and driving away.

He parked his car down the street, waiting until the coast was clear. Once it was, darkness falling, he got out, closing the car door quietly, before silently making his way down the driveway and to the house. He was lucky it was surrounded by hedges and trees so it would be easier for him. After casing the house, he found an open window in the back. Easy.

It took less than a minute for him to hoist himself up and enter the home, into what looks to be the dining room. Silently, he tiptoed his way out of the room and into the hallway, following a sweet, soft humming coming from the living room. Strawberry blonde was sitting on an all white couch, reading a book, the tv on a low volume across the room. Holding his breath, he slowly walked up to behind the couch, grateful that the floor was carpeted so he didn’t have to tiptoe. He covered her mouth from behind, muffling the surprised scream. His other hand held her neck, squeezing it as hard as he could. “Shh,” he murmured, “It’ll be over soon.”

He was right. It took no time at all for the woman to grow quiet, her body growing too weak to fight back anymore, though all she got was scratches and deep nail marks on his arms. Soon, she was limp, her blue-green eyes wide and glassy. He let go of her, letting her fall on the floor with a soft thump.

Now was the part he hated, checking for witnesses. He checked every room, upstairs and downstairs, finding nothing. Until the last room. He barely saw her, buried under the covers, just wild curls peeking out. Feeling daring, he moved closer, going still when he saw her roll over. The girl was about six, and fast asleep. He sighed in relief, before quickly leaving the house, getting in his car and driving back home.

Two hours passed until someone pulled up to that same house. Eddie Munson walked up to the front door, letting himself in with his key. “Baby, I’m home!” he called.

When he got no answer, he frowned. It was weird, usually his wife was already at the door, giving him a kiss, or his daughter, Layla, running down the hall to tackle him with a hug. But today, there was nothing.

“Baby?”

Walking into the living room, Eddie saw strawberry blonde curls next to the couch. He screamed in horror, running to his wife’s side and checking her pulse. “No!” He then gasped, standing and sprinting down the hall to his daughter’s bedroom. He went in and pulled the blanket off of his daughter. “Oh, thank god!” She was alive, sleeping peacefully.

Eddie ran out of the room and dialed a number. “Come on…” When he heard the voice on the other line, he started crying. “Harrington! I need your help! I just got home from work and found Chrissy dead!...................No, the killer didn’t harm Layla, thank god……….You’re coming over? Thank you. Door will be unlocked………No, I didn’t see anything weird. Door was locked when I got here……I think it was the killer you’re hunting down. The one from the paper.”

Chapter Text

‘It’s been a week since the latest death of the Hawkins serial killer. Chrissy Cunningham-Munson, former cheerleading captain of Hawkins High, mother of six year old Layla and wife to musician Eddie Munson, was found murdered in her home, strangled like the other victims. A funeral will be held by the family at the Hawkins Church in the afternoon. No leads yet, but we at Channel Six News are determined to get answers for you, dear viewers! Tune in later for the five o’clock broadcast! We’ll see you then! Have a great day!’

“Bullshit.”

With a click of a button, the television turned off. Steve sighed, feeling terrible that he couldn’t provide answers to anyone. His entire firm had been working tirelessly on this case, pulling all-nighters for days on end, and still nothing! Not even one clue. But then again, the murders even stopped for a while, which baffled his firm. Did they get too close and the killer had to stop to let it cool off? What had they been right about? It’s times like these that had Steve wondering if he was in the right field at all.

“No. Stop it, Steve,” he said to himself. “You have to help your friend figure out who killed his wife. You’re a good detective. It’s just hard when it’s your friends that are affected.”

With one final sip of his coffee, Steve placed the mug in the sink, then left his house, got in the car and drove to work. It didn’t take long to arrive there, just a few minutes, but once he got inside, he saw his boss.

“Hey, kid,” Jim said. He had a lit cigarette in one hand, a coffee cup in the other. “Listen, I saw on the news that the funeral is today.”

Steve nodded.

“If you want to leave early, pay your respects, it’s fine with me,” Jim continued, looking over at Steve, “I’ll walkie you if anything new happens. But right now, I think you need to be with your friend.”

Steve couldn’t help but to smile softly. “Thanks, Chief. I appreciate that.”
A few uneventful hours passed, filled with paperwork and coffee breaks. With a glance of the clock, Steve stood up, moving to the bathroom and checking himself out in the mirror. He wore his usual suit and tie, but today, he brought his suit jacket with him, knowing he was going to go to the funeral. He checked his hair out, making sure it looked nice, before walking out and going to his boss’ office, knocking on the door.

“Hey, Hopper? I’m going to head out, if that’s okay.”

Jim looked up from the paper in his hand, and he nodded. “Okay. Hey, make sure to tell Eddie that we’re all thinking about him.”

“Will do.” With that, Steve left.

It took no time for him to drive to the church, but once he arrived, he moved inside, the wave of immense sadness hitting him hard. It was a sea of black, with pink and yellow flowers circling the giant portrait of Chrissy standing next to the coffin. He moved over to it, his heart breaking as he saw her. She looked…peaceful, angelic. Her strawberry blonde hair was in soft curls, her lips a baby pink.

“Chrissy, I’m so sorry,” he whispered, “You did not deserve this. I promise you, I am going to find whoever did this and kill the motherfucker.”

“Steve?”

Steve turned around to see Robin, dressed in an all black pantsuit, her hair half up. She looked at Chrissy, frowning. “You know, I had a crush on her back in high school,” she said.

“Really? I thought it was Vickie.”

“Well, this was before Vickie,” Robin explained with a shrug, “After Tammy Thompson, too. But Chrissy was so sweet. She helped me work on my history project once. We were both in the library and she saw me struggling so she sat down with me and helped me until she had to go to cheerleading practice. It was the first time a jock was actually nice to me. I got a B+ because of her. Never forgot about it.” She laid a gentle hand on Steve’s shoulder. “Let’s go find a seat, okay?”

Once they were seated, a few rows from the front, the ceremony started. It was beautiful, somber, with some funny stories from Chrissy’s family, and her husband, of course. When it finished, everyone piled out and into their cars to go to the cemetery. A red rose was thrown by everyone as they lowered the coffin into the ground. Even Steve teared up. It was over then, people mingling and expressing their condolences.

“You made it,” a voice from behind said, making Steve jump.

Steve turned around to see Eddie, eyes rimmed with red. “Eddie, I’m so sorry, man.” He pulled the slender man into his arms, hugging him tightly.

“Thanks,” Eddie replied, hugging back. He pulled away then. “Thanks for coming. I really appreciate it.” He sighed. “I need a cigarette. Walk with me?” He didn’t wait for an answer, starting down the road and towards the parking lot.

“Of course.” Steve followed, a hand on Eddie’s shoulder as they walked. Once their feet hit the asphalt, he pulled out his pack of camels from his suit pocket, lighting one up and placing it in his mouth. He handed the pack to Eddie.

Eddie immediately lit one and sucked in, holding it in his lungs. His head tilted back, eyes closed as he blew out the stream of smoke, looking as if he’d needed that for a while. “This has been so goddamn stressful. I’m telling you, I haven’t even had time to think about anything but this. And my angel, my Chrissy bear… God, I miss her. And Layla. She’s at that age where she’s starting to understand shit, but it’s so hard to explain death to a child. I mean, how do you even do that? I tried being honest, but you can tell she doesn’t fully get it and it just breaks my heart even more. And Wayne. God, he’s been my guardian angel ever since he took me in all those years ago, but he’s been working overtime helping me with all of this, and I don’t deserve him. I mean, with my job and me landing a record deal, I’ve been making some money so he doesn’t have to work anymore, but he’s been helping me nonstop and I don’t know how to thank him for any of the shit he’s doing for me.” He looked down at the ground, his voice breaking. “I’m sorry for venting.”

Steve shook his head. “Never apologize for that, Eddie.” He squeezed Eddie’s shoulder. “You hear me? It’s not good to keep that shit inside. I’m here for you. If you need anything, literally anything at all, you have my number. I’m here for you any time. Just give me a call, it doesn't matter what time of day it is. Even if you need a babysitter, if you need to go out for a drink or just to talk. I don’t care.” He stood in front of Eddie, now both hands on the man’s shoulders. He looked him in the eyes. “Okay?”

It took a moment for Eddie to respond, big brown eyes brimming with tears, but he nodded. “You’re a good man, Steve. Thank you. Hey, I was wondering… How’s the case going? Are there any updates since…” He motioned toward the cemetery.
Steve let go of Eddie, taking a moment to take a drag of his cigarette, before responding. “Nothing yet. I don’t know if we got too close or something, but the killer seems to be letting things cool off for now. Chrissy was the last victim so far.” He saw Eddie’s face drop, and his heart broke. “But I promise, I swear to you, I will do everything in my power to find this asshole. Me, everyone in the station, everyone involved in this case is putting their all into this. Everyone there is thinking of you, by the way. Hopper included.”

Eddie took one last drag of his cigarette, nodding as he threw the spent butt to the ground, crushing it under his dress shoe. “That’s nice. Thank you.” He blew out the smoke, before looking back over at the man. “Oh! You’ll never guess who I ran into here.”

“Who?”

“Billy Hargrove.” Eddie saw Steve’s eyes widen in surprise, and he continued. “It’s true! He came up to me before it started, said his condolences and everything. We had a nice talk. You know, for a total prick in high school, he totally changed. Got real chill once we graduated. Calmer, even. Surprising, huh?”

Steve nodded. “Yeah. Well, that was nice of him. I haven’t seen him since we graduated.” He remembered Billy. Hot headed, cocky, full of himself, but so, so damn hot. Steve’s had a few dreams, well, fantasies, involving him over the years, but he wasn’t going to admit that to anyone. Guy’s given him a black eye or two. It would probably look bad if he admits to having a crush on the guy who used to bully him sometimes.

“Yeah, it was. I haven’t seen him in forever, either.” Eddie shrugged. “He should be around here somewhere.” His eyes lit up then, looking in the distance. “Is that Buckley? Shit, I should go talk to her. I’ll see you, Harrington.” With that, he left, calling Robin’s name.

Steve was alone then, finishing his cigarette as he walked over to his car. He dropped the spent butt onto the ground, fishing out his keys in his pants pocket, when a voice made him drop them.

“Am I dreaming, or is that you, Harrington?”

Steve looked up, a jolt of electricity moving up his spine. “Billy Hargrove! How are you, man?”
Billy chuckled. “Didn’t mean to make you jump, amigo.” He reached down and picked up the keys, handing them to Steve. “Here.”

“Thanks.” Steve held them in his hands.

Moving closer to the man, Billy eyed him up and down. “Still have great hair, huh? I shouldn’t be surprised.”

“Oh, yeah,” Steve replied, reaching up to touch his hair. “Thanks.” Getting a better look of the man, he noticed Billy had chopped his mullet, opting for a shorter cut, still blonde and slightly curly. His leather boots and light blue jeans that cupped his ass perfectly were switched for a nicer suit, most likely for this occasion. “You look great. Still ripped.”

There was that chuckle again, the one Steve hadn’t heard in years. “Well, thanks. I don’t have as much time to work out as I’d like, but I do still find time to go.” He paused for a moment, patting his pockets, before pulling out a pack of cigarettes. Once he lit one, he placed it between his lips. “So,” he said, “I hear from the news that you’re a big shot detective now.”

“Well, I wouldn’t call me a big shot, but yeah, I’m a detective,” Steve replied with a shrug, “I’m actually working on the case of the Hawkins serial killer now. The Chief let me leave early so I can come here. Eddie was my friend, you know. And Chrissy. I visited them in the hospital when they had their kid.”

Billy nodded. “Oh, yeah. I met Layla. She definitely got Eddie’s energy,” he said, laughing.

“Oh, yeah. Kid could power the whole city of Hawkins for a week if we harness her energy,” Steve replied, letting out a little chuckle. He smiled softly. “So, what have you been up to lately? Where are you working?”

Billy shrugged. “I may not be a fancy detective like you, but I do work in business. Got a firm downtown, even got a doorman.” He flicked the ash off the end of his cigarette. “Nothing too fancy, but hey, it’s a living.”

“So Billy Hargrove sold his soul to the corporate machine? I wouldn’t have expected that,” Steve replied.

Billy cocked an eyebrow. “Yeah? What career did you think I would have taken?”

“Well, I don’t know. I always thought you’d be doing something athletic, since you were always great at sports, or maybe with cars, because of that Camaro you had,” Steve explained.

There was a ghost of a smile on Billy’s lips. “Well, I appreciate that, but no. I still have that Camaro, by the way. And I play basketball at the community center on the weekend.” He thought for a moment. “Hey, did you want to get a drink sometime? Get a bite to eat? I hardly think this is the appropriate place to catch up properly.”

“I’d like that,” Steve said, a slight blush on his cheeks. He didn’t know what was happening, or why, but he was excited. His heart skipped a beat. Why did that happen? It’s been years since he’s seen the man, but something in him was still feeling the giddiness from before.

“It’s a date, then.” Billy winked, moving away from Steve. “I’ll call you.” With that, he was gone.

Chapter Text

Two weeks passed since his last victim, since he took a life. He’s missed it too much. But tonight, that changes. Tonight, he has a target. The hot detective will have to wait until the perfect moment. No, not yet. Tonight will be the bitch receptionist he had to deal with at his bank. Who does she think she is giving him attitude? He sat in his car, parked in the very back of the parking lot of the bank. The bank he’s been going to for years. Suddenly this new receptionist has a problem with how he talks to her? Ugh! Maybe it’s her. Or maybe it’s the unbridled rage bubbling in his gut. He hasn’t been able to kill anyone in two weeks! That had to change. He was getting too revved up. Even his roommate was starting to notice he’s been on edge lately. Though, she thinks he just hasn’t been able to get laid recently. Not…his murderous tendencies. No. She doesn’t know about them. He’s been careful, too careful about it. Cleaning up everything, immediately washing his clothes, showering for nearly an hour, scrubbing the bloody skin off his body.

The lights went out in the bank, and he knew it was nearly time. The workers left the building, one by one, entering their cars and leaving the parking lot. Luckily for him, the receptionist was taking her time digging through her purse for her car keys. Now was time to make his move.

Quickly, he quietly made his way out of his car, leaving the door open for a quick getaway. He made his way over to her, tip-toeing his way behind her. She was oblivious to her surroundings. Big mistake.

With one quick movement, the girl’s mouth was covered, being held tightly by his hand. His other hand was on her throat, squeezing tighter and tighter. It was the usual method, nothing changing, since it had been working, when…

“Ow!”

He pulled his hand away, inspecting it. The girl had bit his hand so hard, her teeth ripped a chunk of skin off. “You bitch!”

He punched her hard in the mouth, before wrestling her to the ground, using his full weight to crush her body so she couldn’t move.

“You shouldn’t have done that,” he warned.

Using both hands, he squeezed her throat, one hand getting slippery from his bleeding wound. But soon, the flailing and fighting from the girl lessened, until she grew limp under his body. He quickly stood up, leaving her there as he ran back to his car and got in, peeling out of the parking lot and going home.

“Stupid! Stupid!” He slammed his fist on the steering wheel. “Sloppy!”

It was sloppy. He didn’t realize how bad it was until the next morning, when he was watching the news. A breaking news segment interrupted the weather man reporting it would be rainy in the afternoon.

‘We have some breaking news regarding the Hawkins Serial Killer case. We now go live to Hawkins Community Bank, where a press conference is taking place.’

The video of the anchorman cut out, and suddenly, there he was. The hot detective, standing in front of the bank, on the steps. He was reading off of a paper in his hand.

“Good morning, Hawkins. It is with a heavy heart to announce that yet another victim was found. We will not be releasing her name at this time. We believe it was the work of the killer on the loose, due to the nature of the killings. Now, at this time, we will be answering questions.’

The camera panned to the many reporters standing in front of the man, all holding up their microphones with the cameramen capturing every word on video. One of the reporters cleared her throat. “Detective Harrington, you are confirming that this new victim is done by the Hawkins Serial Killer?”

The detective nodded. “Yes, we believe this person has killed the victim.”

Another reporter added, “Bringing the total victims so far to five?”

“Yes.”

One reporter raised his hand. “So, how close are you and the police to catching this killer?”

The detective looked at the reporter who asked. “At this time, we are confident we are closing in on this person, due to the fact that we believe he’s getting too cocky. We found new evidence, something new. He somehow got injured, and now… We have his DNA. Blood and a chunk of skin found in the victim’s mouth.” He smiled.

His heart dropped, the words ringing in his ears. He knew he was being sloppy last night!

“It’s being analyzed as quickly as possible. Once we have the results, the killer will be identified and quickly taken care of.”

Shit. This hot detective has to be taken care of. Tonight.

—

“I know! I can’t believe it, either! Soon, this nightmare will be all over, and you’ll have justice for Chrissy. I promise.”

Steve stood there in the doorway, leaning against the frame as he held the phone to his ear. He nodded.

“Heather was smart. She bit him and got some of his skin, so he was bleeding all over when he was strangling her. Honestly, I’m surprised he was able to hold on long enough to kill her with it being so slippery,” Steve explained, “I don’t know. It was everywhere. On the ground, all over her clothes and neck. Hell, he probably had it all over himself. If he was walking, someone definitely would have thought he was suspicious. But, he was driving. We know that because someone heard the struggle.”

Steve nodded, continuing the phone conversation. “He was! Someone heard him yelling ow, which is when he got bit, called her a bitch, the yelling stopped and then they saw a car with tinted windows speeding away. They didn’t get the plates, but they did get the model, so we know what he drives.” He smiled. “I promise, Eddie. We’re getting close. Very close.” He glanced at the clock. “Shit, I’m sorry, I have to go……….. Yeah, I have a date tonight. Do you remember how Billy was at the funeral?............ I ran into him. He asked me out, so I said yes. He’s still as hot as I remember.” He then laughed. “I promise, I won’t get too attached. Talk to you later. Bye.”

Once he hung up, Steve got ready for his date. He showered, making sure to smell extra good in order to impress Billy. He then did his hair nicely and dressed in a nice pair of dark jeans and a button down shirt, rolling up the sleeves. He smiled at himself in the mirror.

“God, I haven’t been this nervous since my first date with Nancy Wheeler,” he said to himself, chuckling. He then frowned, remembering what happened to Nancy. “Don’t worry, Nance. We almost got him.”

With one last check, Steve left his house, humming to himself as he pulled out of the driveway and down the road. After a few minutes of driving, he parked his car into the parking lot of the restaurant both him and Billy agreed to. Getting out of the car, a car caught his eye. The baby blue Camaro he remembered from high school. Billy was already here.

“Steve!”

Steve looked at the door of the building, seeing Billy already there, leaning against the wall, putting out a cigarette and throwing it in the ashtray outside. He walked over to him. “Hey, Billy.”

“Hey.” Billy returned the smile. “You ready to go in? I’m starved.”

Steve nodded. He couldn’t help but to blush when he felt a hand on the small of his back as they walked inside and to the table. It was in the back, secluded, private. Steve felt like Billy probably paid to get this table reserved for them.

Once seated, Billy grinned at Steve. “Aren’t you a sight for sore eyes? You look great. Glad to know you clean up even nicer for me.”

Steve rolled his eyes. “Yeah, don’t think you’re special. I just didn’t want to go on a date in my work clothes.” The blush was still there, though. He was thankful the lights were dimmed so his date didn’t see it.

“What a joker.” Billy chuckled softly. “Don’t worry. I dressed up nicely for you, too. Even bought a new shirt.” He motioned to his torso. “Just for you.”

“It looks nice on you,” Steve commented. His eyes immediately went to Billy’s hand. It was bandaged up in gauze and medical tape. His brows furrowed. “What happened to your hand?”

“Oh, this?” Billy held his hand up. “My sister, Max. She needed help opening up a package. It was the hard plastic crap. I couldn’t find the scissors, so I used a swiss army knife, and it slipped and I sliced my hand wide open.”

Steve sucked in a breath, wincing as he thought about it. “That’s terrible. That must hurt bad.”

Billy nodded. “It hurts like a bitch. Had to get stitches. But hey, anything for Max.”

“How’s she doing anyway?” Steve asked. “I haven’t seen her in a long time. I used to babysit her, you know.”

Billy nodded. “I remember. Yeah, she’s in college now, majoring in graphic design. We live together. I always told her, when we were younger, that once I graduate, I’m taking her out of that household and she’s living with me.” He sighed, shaking his head. “My old man, Neil. He was a monster. Used to beat the shit out of me and his wife relentlessly. Every single night. Even in front of Max. I used to be terrified, not of Neil, but of Neil hurting Max when I’m not there. One day, it did happen. After graduation. I came home from a party from my buddy’s house, and I saw Max with a busted lip.” He paused to take a sip of the water the waitress brought them. “I raised hell that night. Told Max to pack up all her shit and that she was going with me since her mom couldn’t keep her safe. We’ve been living together ever since.” He then realized, looking over at Steve. “Sorry. I kind of dumped that on you.”

Steve shook his head. “Don’t worry. Honestly, it’s sweet you took care of her, kept her safe and everything. And it does make sense as to why you were kind of an asshole in high school,” he explained. He shrugged. “But somehow, I was still into you.”

Billy chuckled softly. “And…are you still into me?”

“Oh, yeah. You should have felt the somersaults my heart was doing after you asked me out!” Steve laughed. “I thought I was going to puke! Then you took your sweet time calling me. I was starting to think you didn’t mean it. Or you forgot me. Nearly broke my heart.”

Billy shook his head. “I could never forget about you, Harrington,” he replied. “I’m sorry I took a while to call. Work got swamped. Bunch of new clients because the other bank down the road shut down, so they all came to mine.”

“You work at the bank?” Steve asked. “Hawkins Community Bank?”

Billy nodded. “Before you ask, no, I didn’t see the killer. Yes, I know Heather got killed last night. No, I’m not the killer.” He looked at Steve. “I can see your detective wheels spinning around in your brain.”

“But you were there last night?”

“No, Steve.” Billy corrected. “I was there yesterday, but my office closes at five, not seven, when the building closes. I was already at my house when it happened.”

Steve frowned. “Oh. I’m sorry.” He shook his head, eyes closed as if he was trying to shake the thought out of his head. “I didn’t mean to accuse you of anything. I’m just on edge right now. I’ve promised Eddie I’d find Chrissy’s killer and he got so messy last night and the results are taking forever even though we expedited them so they would get here faster.” He sighed, looking Billy in the eye. “It’s just been such a long case, and it’s close to being over, and I can’t wait so I can relax and not have to think about it anymore.”

Billy, with his not injured hand, reached over and grabbed Steve’s hand, giving it a comforting squeeze. “I can’t imagine the amount of stress you’re under, sweetheart,” he sympathized. “Everybody’s going to look like a suspect when it’s all you’re thinking about. But tonight, I’m going to try to help you forget about it for a while. Let’s just enjoy dinner, have a few drinks. I was thinking maybe we can go dancing after? If not, we can go back to my place. I’ll really help you relax.” He gave Steve a wink, causing the man to blush. “But if you’re not up for that, I get it. We can keep it PG until the next date.”

Steve couldn’t help but to smile. “Thank you. I want nothing more than to have a normal night tonight, not thinking about dead people or crime scene photos, or all the blood the killer left last night.” He shivered. “It was a lot. I’m surprised the guy didn’t bleed out. It looked like Heather bit open a vein or something.”

Billy frowned. “Okay, no more talking about the case tonight. Promise me that, sweetheart.”

The blush deepened when Steve was called that. “Okay, I promise.” He even held his pinky out, chuckling when Billy looped his pinky with Steve’s. “There, it’s a pinky promise. Now I can’t break it.”

The waitress came over then and took their orders. Billy ordered a nice wine for their table. When it got brought over, he poured Steve a glass, handing it to him, then poured himself one. He held his glass up. “To us.”

“To us.”

Their glasses were clinked together, and Steve sipped his wine, thinking it tasted way better than the other wines he’s tried before. “Holy shit, this is delicious. What is it?”

“The good stuff,” Billy replied, “Don’t ask how much it is. I’m trying to impress you.”

“Well, you already are,” Steve said, “This is such a great date so far. Great wine, great conversation, a really hot guy I’ve had a crush on since high school saying he wants to do rated R things to me back at his place? What more could I want?”

Billy laughed in surprise. “Oh, shut the hell up,” he said, “You’re too much, Harrington.”

“So are you, Hargrove!” Steve laughed with Billy.

Soon, the food came out and the table fell into a comfortable silence as they ate. They held hands as they ate, talking as they shared a piece of cheesecake. When it came time to pay, Billy immediately paid, not letting Steve see how much the meal cost. They then left the building, walking down the road to a little hole in the wall dance club. They held each other close as they slow danced, their joints loose from the fancy wine.
Steve was nearly a mess of giggles during one fast song as Billy dipped him, being romantic. Once their feet hurt from all the dancing, they both drove to Billy’s house, making out on the couch, until they decided to take it into the bedroom.

The next morning, the boys woke up to the smell of coffee, wrapped up in each other’s arms. Steve awoke first, slowly peeling Billy’s limbs off of him as he got out of bed. His head was swimming and his body hurt. Damn dancing. He had fun, though. A lot of fun. He started to dress himself, not realizing he was being watched until he heard the voice.

“Where you going, sweetheart?” Billy’s voice was hoarse.

Steve turned around, pulling his shirt on. “I have work soon. I have to shower before I go in. Don’t want to smell like wine and sweat.” He chuckled.

Billy smiled. “It didn’t seem like you mind what happened yesterday.”

“I didn’t say that,” Steve replied, smiling as he remembered the date. “It was the most fun I’ve had in years.” He fixed his hair in the mirror, before moving back to the bed, leaning over and kissing Billy. “Thank you,” he whispered, eyes shut as he leaned his forehead against the man’s. “Call me later? We can do this again soon?”

Billy smiled. “Of course, beautiful. I’ll call you tonight.” He pulled Steve in for another kiss, cupping his cheek, before letting go. “Have fun at work.” Within a minute, he was back asleep.

Steve left the room, checking his pockets for his car keys. “Where the hell-”

“Are these yours?”

Steve looked over to see Max standing in the kitchen, holding the car keys in her hand. “Yes! Thank you, Max.” He walked over and took them.

“He really likes you, you know.”

Steve looked confused. “How do you know?”

“Usually when he just wants sex, he goes to the other person’s house. He never brings them here,” Max explained, shrugging. “So congrats.”

Steve blushed. “Well, thanks. It was nice seeing you. Talk to you soon.” He left then, driving to his house to take a shower and get ready. After a quick breakfast, he walked outside, checking the mail as he went to his car. He got to work, in a better mood than he’s been in a long time.

Chapter Text

The first half of the work day was uneventful, which is usually a good thing, but with Steve’s current case, he hated not having updates. There were now five victims of this serial killer. Five lives lost because Steve and his team couldn’t figure out who the hell it was. He was growing angry, impatient, because all of his leads were exhausted. His only saving grace was the DNA evidence they had collected from Heather, the latest victim. It has been expedited, so hopefully they hear results back soon. But for now? Nothing.

Steve sighed, running a hand through his hair as he looked down at the case file. “I’m just so stressed, Robbie. I don’t even know where to look right now.”

“Okay, what evidence do we have?” Robin asked, leaning against Steve’s desk, holding a cup of coffee between both hands. “The DNA of course, the blood and chunk of flesh found in the victim. That’s being analyzed, so that’s off the table for now. The night it happened, then! What was so special about it that he got sloppy?”

Steve shrugged. “I don’t know. It was quick thinking, or a reflex, but she fought back. None of the other girls did. Maybe she saw him? Or knew him?”

“Let’s circle back on it. What else? The motive is unclear, right?”

Steve nodded. “The psychologist has a theory that maybe he’s been abandoned or neglected by a woman in his life, and that gave him an inherent hatred for women,” he explained, pausing to take a sip of his coffee. “That’s the best idea he can come up with.”

“Maybe it was his mother,” Robin suggested, shrugging, “If she did something like that, it would alter the young killer’s psyche, to the point where his understanding of right and wrong might be askew by the time he’s an adult.”

Steve thought about it for a moment, quiet. “You may be right. That could work. You know, you should have been a psychologist. You’re good at reading people.”

“I would, except for one tiny detail.”

“Which is?”

“I hate people,” Robin replied with a shrug, “It’s why I prefer a more solitary job, like dealing with the dead. They may not speak out loud, but they do still tell a story. Well, part of a story.” She glanced over at Steve. “You’re the puzzlemaster. I just help put together a few pieces.”

Steve smiled up at his best friend. “Which is why we make such a great team.”

“Aw, don’t get sappy on me, Detective.” Robin shook her head, a faint smile on her face. “What else? You said there was a witness for the last murder, right?”

Steve held up his notes from the case, nodding. He reached down and put on his reading glasses, before clearing his throat. “The woman, who did not want to be named, lives right next to the bank, where it happened, but couldn’t see what was happening due to the fence she has around her yard. She heard a male voice yelling ow, so yes, the killer is a man.” He glanced up at Robin. “The timeline tells us that was when she bit his hand. Then he called her a bitch, the murder happened, and then the witness saw a black car speed away. So, we have the make and the color of the car, no license plate because it was dark out. The security cameras don’t point out towards the parking lot, just the front of the building and interior shots, so that’s a dud.” He paused, sighing softly. “That’s all.”

Putting her light green coffee cup down onto Steve’s desk, Robin began pacing back and forth across the floor. She mumbled to herself as she thought, mentally putting the pieces together in her head. “It’s not making much sense why Heather was different. It’s definitely possible that she knew him, but it’s also possible that she just had quick reflexes. It also wouldn’t make sense why he would go after a potential friend, maybe lover? Was Heather dating anyone?” She got a defeated head shake in response. “Okay, so maybe not lover.” Her feet stopped right in front of Steve’s desk, placing her hands on top of it. “Looks like you’ve got yourself a puzzle, Steve.”

“Gee, thanks, Rob.” Steve frowned. “Glad I could count on you for help.”

“Well, this is why I’m not a detective! I’d rather deal with the dead than solve puzzles!” Robin then looked over at Steve, pointing a finger at him. “Wait, what about the bodies? There’s a pattern there, all strangulation. He’s strong enough to crush their windpipes.” She walked around the desk, behind Steve, and quickly placed a hand over his mouth, her other arm crooked around his neck, not enough to actually harm him. “The murders have to be done like this,” she explained, “One hand silencing them, his arm squeezing the throat.” She then pulled away. “Heather bit his hand and definitely left a huge bite mark, enough to need stitches and leave him bleeding all over. So what does that tell you?”

“He has to work out. His muscles need to be huge.”

Robin nodded. “There’s no way he doesn’t have a gym membership. Have you checked there? Maybe see if there’s anyone that would fit the serial killer personality? Anyone with a wound on their hand?”

“I mean, it’s worth a shot,” Steve shrugged. He stood. “I’ll go check it out, talk to the workers there. Thanks, Robbie.”

Steve walked out of his office and down the hallway, passing his coworkers. He sighed as he got in his car, slamming the door. “I hope this works,” he said to himself, “I have nothing else to go off of.”

Once on the road, the detective stopped at each and every gym in Hawkins, interviewing each employee and gym member. It grew increasingly difficult to spot suspicious people, as many of the weightlifters taped their hands in order to get a better grip on the bar.

It was only when he hit the last gym, looking around, when he spotted a suspicious individual. He frowned, moving towards the person.

The man noticed the detective and tried to exit, but Steve was quicker. “Excuse me,” he started, “What happened to your hand?”

The man held his hand behind his back. “Nothing that concerns you.”

Steve raised his eyebrows. “Maybe, maybe not. I'll be the judge of that. Now, I'm going to ask you to remove the bandage.”

The man held his hand out, but then immediately pushed Steve out of the way, running towards the exit.

“Hey!” Steve yelled. He sprinted towards the man, jumping and tackling him. He then continued to sit on the man's stomach, unwrapping the bandage. His eyes widened. It looked just like a bite mark. “You're coming with me.”

It took a while for the Chief to show up, but Steve eventually watched as Jim handcuffed the man, put him in the back of the cop car, and drive to the station.

“Finally! Our first suspect!” Robin grinned. “I guess my lead was a bullseye. You should thank me, dingus.” She gently elbowed Steve in the rib.

Steve was so happy, he couldn't help but to chuckle. “Thanks, Robbie. God, I can't wait until I can tell Eddie and Jonathan that the killer is out behind bars. But, Jim has to talk to him first, so we have to wait.”

“Yeah, and I took the pictures of his hand, so they're being inspected as we speak, so I really hope this is the guy,” Robin added. “Now, we just wait.”

The phone on Steve's desk started ringing then, and he immediately answered it. “Detective Harrington.”

“Oh, that's sexy,” the voice said.

Steve rolled his eyes. “Hi, Billy.”

“Hi, sweetheart. Hey, I was wondering, are you busy tonight?”

Steve shook his head, before realizing that Billy couldn't see him over the phone. “Nope, I'm free. Why?”

“Well, I wanted to take my sweet Steve out,” Billy explained, “Maybe the movies and then dinner?”

Steve smiled. “That sounds perfect. I'll be ready at seven.”

“Seven sounds perfect. I'll meet you there.”

The line went dead then, and Steve smiled. “Today's perfect. We may have found the killer, and I have a date with Billy!”

Robin's ears perked up. “You do? This is the second date. Are you two official yet?”

“No, but I wouldn't mind it,” Steve explained, “He's just… God, he's perfect. We have so much in common, we both have good careers, both want a family, he's sporty and we both have our own places. And he's way nicer than in high school. Not to mention, he's even hotter than I remember.” He blushed as he thought about their last date, how it was so magical…how it ended. He promised Eddie he wouldn't get attached, but with Billy, it was damn near impossible.

Robin rolled her eyes, but had a smile on her face. She was happy her friend was happy. “Well, just make sure I get an invite to the wedding.”

“Oh, are you kidding? You're going to be my best man!”

Robin grinned. “Yes! I'll be the best help you'll ever need!”

The rest of the work day went by slowly, Steve growing impatient for his date. He wondered what they were going to see, if it would be a comedy or a scary movie. He didn't care, as long as he had Billy by his side. He meant what he said to Robin, he would love to be in a relationship with the man. But, only time will tell.

Soon, it was time to leave, and Steve made his way to the movie theater in record time, parking and walking to the door.

“Hi, baby.” Arms were around his waist, and Steve smiled, leaning into it.

“Hi, Billy.”

“So, are you ready? I have two options that sound good. You're the choice maker here.” Billy placed a hand onto the small of Steve's back and led him inside. He pointed to the posters. “Army of Darkness or Candyman? Have you seen the other two Evil Dead movies?”

Steve nodded. “Of course I have. Bruce Campbell is hot, and funny.”

“Can't argue with that. So, are you picking that one, or Candyman? Tony Todd is one talented son of a bitch.”

Steve thought for a moment. “Let’s go with Army of Darkness. We can do Candyman on the next date.”

“Why not both? After Army of Darkness, Candyman starts again. We can sneak in.”

Steve pretended to be shocked. “I'm a man of the law, Mr. Hargrove! But…” He smirked. “I like your idea. Let's do it.”

Billy grinned. He grabbed Steve's hand, buying the tickets. They took their seats near the front, holding hands as they shared popcorn between them, feeding each other. Once it was over, they snuck into the screening of Candyman, sitting in the back and cuddling as they watched the horror movie.

Their eyes were hurting a little as the boys exited the theater, but it was worth it, spending time cuddling with each other.

“So, I was thinking we go to Enzo's. Would that be good?” Billy asked.

Steve nodded. “Enzo's sounds perfect. I'll follow you.”

It took no time at all to get to the rest, being seated in a quiet, cozy corner, secluded from the rest.

“So, how's the case going?” Billy asked, taking a sip of his wine.

Steve's eyes lit up. “Great, actually! I was going through the evidence we had with Robin, my best friend, who also works with us. She's a coroner,” he explained, getting a nod of understanding. “She made a suggestion and it lead to me arresting a really suspicious guy with a bite mark on his hand! We have a suspect! Jim, the Chief, is interrogating him. He didn't have anything when I left, but he'd call me if he gets anything.”

Billy grinned. “I'm so happy for you, baby. My detective, single handedly finding a serial killer. You deserve to celebrate.”

“This date is a celebration. I'm spending it with someone I adore,” Steve replied, reaching over the table and grabbing Billy's hand, who squeezed it in return. “I'm happy.”

Billy smiled. “Well, you know, I've been thinking. How would you like to make it official?”

“Yes!” Steve didn't even hesitate. This was what he wanted. Billy was who he wanted, ever since junior year.

“Aren't you eager?” Billy chuckled. It made him happy to know that Steve felt the same way. “I like you, Steve. A lot. I want to keep this going.”

Steve nodded, blushing at the words. “I like you a lot too Billy. I'm yours.”

Billy leaned over and gave Steve a gentle peck on the lips to seal the deal, before pulling away and picking up his wine glass. “To us.”

“To us!”

Both glasses clinked against each other, and the lovers drank in celebration of their new relationship. The rest of the date was nothing but talking about anything and everything, leading back to Billy's home, specifically to his bedroom, both wine drunk again.

The next morning, after kissing his new boyfriend goodbye, Steve made his way home, humming happily to himself. As he checked the mail, his heart dropped, smile falling from his face. There was a single letter in his mailbox, in a plain, white envelope. No stamp, no return address. Three words were written in big, red, angry letters.

‘YOU’RE NEXT, DETECTIVE.’

Chapter Text

Terrified wasn't the word to describe Steve these past few days. The strongest cold brew couldn't touch the exhaustion he's been feeling since he got the letter. Especially since he's learned that the suspect he arrested actually had nothing to do with the case. Biting back a yawn, he poured himself yet another cup of coffee, making his way back to his desk.

“Hey, St- Woah!” It was Jim, his boss. “You look terrible. Have you been sleeping?”

Steve shook his head. “No, I haven't been able to lately.” He's told nobody about the letter, not Jim, not Robin, not his boyfriend. He didn't know how to.

“Is it the case?” Jim frowned. “You know, kid. When I first became a cop, I wasn't able to sleep a wink because of all the shit I've seen. Murders, assaults, truly weird crimes that I couldn't get out of my head. It's easy to lose sleep over this shit, especially when your friends are involved,” he explained, “It gets easier, you gradually learn to let it go and sleep.”

Steve looked over at the Chief. “Well, at what point do you start sleeping?”

“When the case is solved,” Jim replied bluntly, giving a shrug. He sighed as he noticed the face he received. “It sucks now, but you know you're giving every case your all, you're doing your best the entire time and you're great at your job. You've helped solve plenty of cases! Hell, I've been thinking about giving you a promotion once this is over.” He saw Steve's ears perk up. “You deserve it for all the hard work you put in every day. But, you have to learn to cut yourself some slack. Take a second to breathe, and once you relax, you might be able to put the pieces together a little easier.”

Steve thought about the Chief's words, and he nodded. Maybe he did need to take a break. He's been pouring over the case file for days now. “You're right. Thank you.”

“Of course. Hey, why don't you go take the rest of the day off? It's a nice day out. Maybe some sunshine will help clear out the brain fog.” Jim gave Steve a smile. He likes the guy, ever since the kid babysat his daughter for years, they got closer. He considered Steve to be one of his sons at this point. “I heard from Robin that you got yourself a boyfriend. Why don't you go call him up?”

Steve's cheeks were bright red. He was going to kill Robin. “She told you?”

“Well, yeah. But she didn't have to,” Jim explained, “It's obvious you met someone.” He leaned against the door for a moment. “I'll see you tomorrow.” With that, he went back to his office.

Steve smiled. Maybe Jim is right. Maybe he did need some time away from work to really think. Besides, it was Saturday. Billy doesn't work today. On his way out, he stopped by the coroner's office, giving the door a rap with his knuckle, before opening it.

“Steve!” Robin looked up from her desk, unorganized and covered in colorful ink pens. “What happened? Did you get a lead?”

“I got something alright.” Steve sucked in a breath, looking nervous. “I, ah… I got something in the mail, after I got home from my date, and I don't know what to think about it.”

Robin frowned, looking confused. “What do you mean?” She saw Steve was serious, and it was making her anxious. Usually her friend was fine, calm, collected, and knew how to take things in stride. But this… She saw he looked shaken up from this. When he held out an envelope, she took it, inspecting it. Her heart dropped as she saw the red, angry letters. “Holy shit.”

“Holy shit,” Steve repeated with a nod.

“You have to show this to the Chief! Did you take it to the lab to get analyzed for fingerprints?” Robin asked. “Did you tell anybody else about this? You can get this tested!” Her mouth was going a mile a minute, trying to keep up with her brain.

Steve shook his head. “No! No, and you cannot tell anyone about this.”

“Bu-”

“No buts! I'm trying to do this on my own. I figured if he really wants me, I could try to lure him in,” Steve explained, “Then I can capture him! This will be my big break! I'll finally be able to tell Jonathan and Eddie that the case is solved.”

Robin scrunched her eyebrows in confusion. “That's nice and all, Steve. But exactly how are you going to lure him in?”

“Well, I'll be by myself.”

“That's dangerous!”

“I know! But him seeing I'm all alone might tempt him enough to slip up and show me who he really is,” Steve replied. “Robbie, I know, but it's all I can think to do. He obviously wants me, which is weird because he only goes for women, so I don't know why he's deviating from his pattern.”

Robin thought for a moment. “Unless you got too close to solving it,” she said, looking at Steve, “You got too close or did something to scare him and now he's panicking, so he feels the need to kill you to get you off his back.”

“That's probably right, but what did I do?” Steve asked.

“I don't know, but you did it. And now he wants you.” Robin placed the letter onto her desk. “Are you sure you don't want me to send this to the lab?”

Steve shook his head. “Knowing how careful he's been this entire time, he probably wore multiple pairs of gloves, covered every inch of his body, and made sure there were no witnesses to see him doing it. I don't want to waste the lab’s time. Also, it might be a prank! Who knows?”

“I guess you're right. So, it's our secret until you catch him?” Robin asked.

Steve shrugged. “I might tell Billy. I don't know. The Chief told me to have the day off so I can clear my head, but he doesn't know about this. He thinks the stress of the case is making me lose sleep, which it is, but it's mostly the letter.” He sighed. “I don't know. I just want to get my mind off of this for a while. Even just having dinner with him, it'll make me feel better.”

“Well, just be careful. You don't want him getting mixed up in this,” Robin reminded. “Even if the killer's only killing women, he's hunting you, too.”

Steve would never be able to live with himself if his job put someone he cares about in danger. “I didn't even think about that. Shit.” He really cared about Billy. “I'll just… We won't go out in public. I'll go to his house.”

“He could follow you.”

“He could already know where Billy lives! I was there a few days ago. I found this letter in my mailbox. He found out where I live, Robin,” Steve explained, hands thrown up in the air. “I don't want to live in fear, so I have to find this guy.” He looked his friend in the eye. “I have to end this.”

Robin's face softened, and she moved in front of Steve, placing a hand on his shoulder. “You will. I believe in you.”

“Thank you. Now, I'm going to go see my boyfriend and live like I don't have a target on my back for a while. I'll see you, Robin.” Steve was halfway out the door when he heard Robin's voice.

“Just promise me you'll call Hopper if anything happens.”

“I promise.”

Steve left then, getting in his car and looking around, before driving away. He thought about calling Billy beforehand to see if he was free, but decided against it. He drove straight to the man's house, parking his car next to the blue Camaro and went onto the porch. He looked around as he knocked on the door.

It took a few moments for there to be an answer, but soon, Billy stood in front of him, blonde locks dripping wet and a red towel wrapped around his waist. “Steve!” He sounded out of breath. “Hi, baby!” His confused frown turned into a grin.

Steve walked inside once he was let in, and hugged his boyfriend, giving him a deep kiss.

Billy kissed back, surprised, but happy. He smiled as he pulled away. “I missed you too. Is that why you're here? Or did you know I just got out of the shower?” He smirked.

“Well, I did miss you, but…” Steve frowned, shaking his head. “I'm sorry. I should have called beforehand. I don't know why I didn't. I was just, I don't know. I haven't been sleeping lately, and the stress is getting to me. Oh! And my job is actually going to kill me. I'm lucky my boss let me have the day off today.”

Billy frowned, confused. “Sit down, let me get changed, and then we'll continue this. I'll make coffee.”

Steve obliged, moving to the living room and sitting down, sinking into the couch. He sighed softly. This couch was comfortable enough to fall asleep on. He was tempted to close his eyes, but he knew if he did, he'd be woken by the nightmares he's been having since he got the letter.

Soon, Billy came back, fully dressed this time. He went into the kitchen and turned the coffee maker on, humming softly as he made Steve a strong cup. “Here, baby.” He offered the man the cup. “Now, why is your job going to kill you?” He sat down next to his boyfriend.

Steve took a few sips of the hot beverage, feeling the caffeine slowly enter his veins. It felt like heaven. He sighed, looking down into the cup. “My job is dangerous. It gets terrifying sometimes, but never this bad. I've never had a serial killer find my house and deliver me a letter saying I'm going to be the next victim.”

Billy's expression was unreadable, eyebrows furrowed, as if he was trying to think of what to say. “What do you mean?”

“Well…” Steve put down the cup onto the coffee table, using a coaster, then turned to face his boyfriend. “When I got back home from our date a few days ago, I was checking the mail, as I always do, and I found a letter. It had no return address, no stamp, nothing. Like it was hand delivered by the killer himself. It said, in big letters, ‘You’re next, detective.’ That's all. I haven't been able to sleep at all because of it. Coffee hasn't helped a bit! Well, except for this. I don't know what this kind is, but it's kind of helping.”

Billy looked pissed. He sat up straight, scowl on his face. “Colombian,” he replied, “Extra strong. Maxine drinks it so she's awake for school.” He clenched his fists. “If I saw this piece of shit killer, I'd beat the shit out of him. Nobody gets to threaten my boyfriend and get away with it! I haven't been a bully since high school, but I'm not above getting into a fight if it meant keeping you safe.” He sucked in a breath, trying to calm himself down. “I'm going to keep you safe, Steve. You can stay here for a while, until this blows over.”

“That's… Really?” Steve looked into Billy's baby blue eyes, searching for any sign of deception, but found none. “Billy, you mean it?”

Billy nodded. “Of course, sweetheart. I'd be happy to wake up to your pretty face every day.” He smiled. “And you can finally taste my cooking. I make a mean omelette.”

Steve cracked a small smile. “I remember Max telling me you're a good cook,” he replied. “Hey, would she be okay with it? Me staying here?”

“Yeah, why wouldn't she be? She likes you,” Billy said. He wrapped an arm around Steve's shoulders, pulling him closer. “Why don't we watch a movie or something? We can have a relaxing day, and then go to bed early because I know you're tired.”

The smile on Steve's face grew. “You're the best.” He leaned in and kissed Billy softly, slowly, before resting his head against the man's chest. “I don't want to inconvenience you, though. I'll stay here tonight, but tomorrow, I'm going back home. I can't live in fear.”

Billy nodded, running a hand through Steve's soft locks. “I understand, baby. But tonight, I'll keep you safe.”

Chapter Text

“Sweetheart! Maxine! Breakfast!” Billy's voice called from down the hallway.

Steve groaned quietly, his eyes slowly fluttering open. His nose caught a whiff of bacon, and his stomach growled loudly. He reached over and grabbed his wristwatch, reading the hands of the clock. “6:30,” he mumbled. He got out of Billy's king sized bed, the cold hardwood floor making him shiver as his feet touched it. Once he made his way into the kitchen, he was greeted with a kiss on the cheek and a cup of hot coffee.

“Morning, baby,” Billy chirped, placing a plate of food on the table.

Steve sat down, giving Billy a small, tired smile. “Good morning,” he replied. He looked down at the plate, his stomach growling in response. “Pancakes? They smell delicious.”

“Thanks. I remember you said that your favorite pancakes were blueberry, so I made them as your first breakfast here,” Billy explained, placing two more plates onto the table, before sitting down.

Steve blushed, looking a little bashful. “That's sweet.” He didn't realize Billy paid attention to those details. It was nice. He sipped his coffee, happy.

“Can you believe my asshole of a professor is giving us an exam at the asscrack of dawn?”

Billy picked up one of the cups of coffee on the table, handing it out towards his sister. “Do you want me to kill him?” He asked.

Max just huffed out a soft laugh. “Oh, yeah. Absolutely. But only if I fail this exam,” she replied, shaking her head as she started cutting her pancakes. She glanced over at Steve. “Hey, Steve. Nice to see you again.”

“You too. It's been too long,” Steve commented, “How's school been?”

Max shrugged, pausing to swallow her food. “It's alright. I'm doing pretty well. Well, except for my one class, but I think the professor is out to get me. I mean, he's a total douche and last week, I handed in a project that I thought was going to get a high grade. I worked on it for nearly a month. And then a few days ago, I got the grade back. C minus!”

“That sounds terrible. I'm sorry,” Steve replied, giving Max a sympathetic look.

“Not your fault. I just think the asshole doesn't know what he's talking about. All my other professors love my designs. This one thinks everything I do is wrong. The colors aren't balanced, the font doesn't go with the background. But in other classes, I'm getting all A’s,” Max explained, sounding increasingly more frustrated.

Billy frowned. “Sounds like he just doesn't know how to teach,” he suggested with a shrug, “Hey, how about when I get out of work, we go do something fun? Maybe bowling? It'll get your mind off of it.” He looked over at Steve. “Come join us.”

“Yeah!” Max’s frown faded as a smile replaced it. “You can watch your boyfriend eat shit as he tries to toss the ball down the lane.”

Billy pointed at Max. “That was one time and I tripped!”

“Doesn't mean it wasn't funny!” Max giggled.

Steve chuckled softly as he thought about Billy Hargrove landing on his ass, nearly going down a lane while bowling. “I can picture it.”

“You're not helping, babe!” Billy shook his head, but a small smile was on his lips.

The rest of the meal was filled with conversation and catching up. Steve talked about the details he could give about his ongoing investigation, Max talked about school and her friends, and Billy talked about work.

Max stood up then, putting her dirty dishes in the sink. “I have to go if I want to make it on time for my exam. I'll see you when I get home,” she said, giving Billy a kiss on the cheek. “Bye, Billy. Bye, Steve.” With a wave, she disappeared out the door.

Steve sighed softly as he looked over at the clock on the wall. “I have to get going too. I have to stop at my house and get ready for work.”

“Well, you can get ready here if you'd like,” Billy suggested, “So you don't have to rush.”

Steve thought about it. “On two conditions.”

“Shoot.”

Steve nodded. “First, I need to borrow a shirt.”

“Okay, sure.”

“And two.” Steve then grinned, a little devilishly. “Come join me.”

That was all Billy needed to hear, quickly placing the dishes in the sink, before moving to his boyfriend. He picked up the man, carrying him into the bathroom and shutting the door.

Steve walked into work an hour later, looking happy. He made it into his office, humming softly as he sorted through the paperwork on his desk.

“Well, you certainly look chipper.” Robin leaned against the doorway, eyes scanning her friend. “Is that a new shirt?”

Steve looked down, blushing. “It's Billy's, actually. He let me stay the night.”

“So that's why you didn't answer my calls! Jesus, Steve. I thought you died,” Robin explained, relief lacing her voice. “So you're staying at Billy’s house?”

Steve shook his head. “He did offer, but I told him it'll just be for the night. He's got his own work and Max has college so I didn't want to bother them any more than I already do.” He then said, “Well, they did invite me to go bowling with them tonight.”

“Aw! That's cute!” Robin smiled. “Well, if you're not staying there, where are you going to go?”

Steve shrugged. “I was thinking I just stay at my house.”

Robin's smile fell. “What? No! No way. If you don't want to burden your beefcake boyfriend, then you'll stay with me! Your best friend in the world,” she insisted. “And no, it's not optional. I'm making you. I already had the guest room cleaned out for you last night but then you never answered me.”

Steve thought for a moment, coming to the conclusion that he wouldn't be able to solve the case if he's dead. “Alright,” he replied, “But then the second he's behind bars, I'm going back to my house and I'm taking the biggest, fattest nap of my life. I don't know about you, but I can't sleep now. This son of a bitch is in my head, just…fucking me up.” He shook his head. “Shit sucks.”

Robin nodded in agreement. “I get it. I've been losing sleep, too. Ever since you told me about the letter, I've been so worried about you.” She sighed. “Believe it or not, dingus, you're my best friend and I actually care about you. I don't want to see your body laying on my table at all, especially any time soon. I actually… I had a nightmare about it. I woke up crying. You won't believe the relief I felt seeing you walk past my office. I just… I don't know what I'd do without you in my life.”

Steve immediately stood from his desk, moving across the room and hugging the woman tightly. “You're not going to get rid of me that easily, Robbie,” he reassured her, “I promise.”

“Just stay at my house, for my sanity.” Robin's words were muffled, getting tangled in the fabric of Billy's shirt.

Steve nodded. “I will. It'll be like a sleepover every night.” He chuckled softly. “Hey, remember when we moved out of our parents’ houses and got our own place together?”

“That shitty little apartment on the edge of town!” Robin was giggling now, her sadness pushed to the back of her mind as she was reminded of that tiny apartment. “We got wine drunk one night and put a hole in the wall because we thought it was a good idea to do the Time Warp from Rocky Horror and knocked the hat rack down.”

Steve was laughing now. “The landlord was so pissed.”

“So pissed!”

Steve smiled. “It'll be like that, only hopefully no holes in the wall,” he suggested.

Robin nodded. “We can order a pizza, do a face mask, watch movies. Hey, I'll even stop after work and get us a bottle of wine, just like old times! Maybe we can get drunk and sing along to Little Shop of Horrors.”

“Our rendition of Suddenly Seymour will be heard throughout all of Hawkins!”

After one last squeezing hug, Robin pulled away. “I'll see you after work, dingus.”

“Wait, I have plans,” Steve replied. He noticed Robin's smile falling. “But I'll be there right after! I promise.”

Robin just nodded, moving to the doorway. “You better,” she said, pointing to her friend, “I'll buy the wine.” With that, she left.

The rest of the workday dragged, filled with paperwork and trips to the coffee machine in the break room. Once it was finally time to clock out, Steve waved a goodbye to his boss, before leaving, going to his house and packing a duffle bag of clothes and necessities he'll need to get ready for the morning. Since his hair was a little shorter, he didn't need all the product he used to use back in high school. Instead, it was just mousse, a brush and a hairdryer. Way simpler than the twenty-five minute routine he had going on before. He put the bag in his trunk and drove to the bowling alley, his heart skipping a beat as he saw the blue Camaro in the lot.

“You made it!”

Steve moved to the voice, seeing Billy leaning against the wall, taking a final drag of his cigarette. “Of course I did.” He looked around. “Where's Max?”

“Getting us a lane,” Billy replied, tossing the butt on the ground and sniffing it out with his dress shoe. “You ready?”

The two walked into the bowling alley, being met with the redhead waving them to the counter. “We're down at that end,” she said, pointing to the lane, “Tell the lady your shoe size. I have to pick out a ball.”

Once the boys got their shoes and picked out a bowling ball for themselves, they got ready, sitting down at their reserved lane.

“Who's going first?” Max asked.

Steve shrugged. “Ladies first.”

Max walked to the lane and held her ball close to her chest, before sending it towards the pins, knocking a few down. “Hey, not bad!” She said, surprised, pointing to the remaining pins. She took her next turn, but didn't knock any more pins down.

Steve was next, throwing the ball down the lane and getting most of the pins down. He got the rest in his next turn, giving himself a little smile.

“Not bad,” Billy said, standing up and grabbing his ball, “But let me show you how a real pro does it.” His voice was cocky, a smirk on his face as he threw the ball down the lane, immediately sending it straight into the gutter. His table laughed at him, and he turned. “Next time!”

The rest of the game went smoothly, Billy getting better, even having a strike. Ultimately, Max won the game, sweeping the board with a way better score than her brother or Steve. They returned their shoes to the lady at the counter, and were about to walk out, when Max walked in the opposite direction.

Billy followed, curious. “When did they put an arcade in here?” He asked, confused.

“I don't know, but it's nice,” Steve replied.

Max saw a claw machine and immediately moved in front of it, noticing a plush koala as one of the prizes. Determined to win it, she put a dollar in the machine and lined the claw up so it was under the plush, pressing the button. The claw then missed the koala by a few inches, and she frowned. Disappointed, she went to another game.

Steve played a basketball game, smiling, feeling like a kid again.

Billy went and played a few games.

After twenty minutes, they reconvened outside of the arcade. Billy had two stuffed animals in his arms. “Here,” he said, handing one to his sister.

Max gasped softly. “You won me the koala?” She hugged it, rubbing her cheek against the soft fur, an appreciative smile on her face. “Thanks.”

Billy then handed Steve the other plushie. “I won you one, too.”

It was a light grey elephant, with red hearts for eyes. Steve held it close to his chest. He couldn't believe Billy won him a toy. It was sweet. “Thank you,” he said, voice shy, a blush creeping up on his cheeks. “I'll keep him forever.”

“Are you going to name it?” Billy asked, happy to see his boyfriend blushing because of him.

Steve held the elephant out in front of him, brows furrowing as he thought of a name. “Seymour.”

“I like it,” Billy replied, giving a nod of approval. He pulled his car keys out of his pocket and unlocked the Camaro. “Will I see you for dinner tonight?”

Steve shook his head. “I promised Robin I'd stay with her until this blows over. I told her I'll be fine, but she can be very insistent on things,” he explained, “We're going to order pizza and watch Little Shop of Horrors.”

“Sounds like a good night,” Billy replied. He opened the car door and got in, shutting it and rolling down the window. “How about you call me when you're free and I'll take you out?” He suggested.

Steve smiled. “Okay. I'll see you then.”

Billy reached out and grabbed Steve by the tie, pulling him through the window. He kissed the man deeply, cupping his cheek. “I’ll see you.” He then let go of Steve.

Steve walked back to his car, grinning and blushing as he drove to Robin's apartment. The rest of the night consisted of getting drunk and watching movies, having a good time. Steve slept next to Robin, holding the elephant in his arms.

Chapter Text

Steve walked into the police station, the bright fluorescent lights immediately hurting his head. He was hungover. Damn that wine. He knew Robin was feeling worse than he did, though. She had more of it than him. His mind was feeling better than his body today, happy that he got to spend time with his best friend like the old days when they first graduated high school.

“Kid.”

Steve turned to face an angry looking Jim, his arms crossed.

“My office. Now.”

Steve frowned, confused. He followed his boss to the office, shutting the door behind him. “Is something wrong?”

“Is something wrong?” Jim repeated. “Uh, yeah. I think something is very wrong here. I just found out, my best detective got threatened by an active serial killer and it wasn't brought to my attention. Do you have any idea why he wouldn't tell anyone? Does he understand just how dangerous that is? How stupid?”

Steve sighed softly, looking down at his dress shoes. “I know, and I'm sorry. I just wanted to do this on my own.”

“On your own?!” Jim's eyes were wide, voice raising. “Kid, there's a reason you have a walkie talkie on you. We're a team! Everyone here is part of our team! Do you know what that means?” He wasted no time replying. “It means we work together! We rely on each other! When something happens, we have each other's backs! So why the hell are we keeping secrets now?”

Steve chewed on his lip, feeling bad. He wanted to tell Jim. Part of him, anyway. “I didn't want to get anyone involved. I figured if I can do this on my own, nobody else will get hurt. A few of my friends were victims of this bastard and I'll be damned if I let him take anyone else I care about. If he truly wants me next, I figured I could lead him away somewhere and apprehend him myself.”

“I get it,” Jim said with a sigh, “I really do. You want to crack the case and be the hero. But you have to realize that thinking recklessly is dangerous. I know that this job is already dangerous, but why take unnecessary risks? For the glory? For the promotions?”

“For the people I couldn't save.”

Jim was quiet then, his face softening. It was a heartbreaking thing to hear, but he understood it all too well. It took him a moment to gather his thoughts. He started with a soft sigh. “In this field, you're going to want to do your job well, make sure nobody loses their lives. And you might achieve that, in the beginning at least. But eventually you'll realize, you can't save everybody. It sucks and it makes you feel like a failure, but there's nothing you can do about it. It's part of the job. You just have to take that anger you feel, that regret, and use that to fuel you to do better. To be better. You owe it to the people you lost to keep trying.”

Steve nodded, letting the words sink in. “You're right. I shouldn't have been so careless. I just… I thought I was protecting everyone from him. If I went to Robin or Billy's house, what if the guy followed me and then started targeting them because I wanted to live my life?” He frowned. “Fuck, I was at her house last night! And I was at Billy's the night before! What if they're targeted next? I wouldn't be able to live with myself, Hopper.”

Jim thought for a moment. “Well, if it helps ease your mind, I can talk to the guys and have them patrol Robin and Billy's houses more often.”

“That would be good,” Steve replied, “I think they'd be okay with that. I'm staying with Robin for the time being because she insisted on it, but it would be nice to have some protection.”

Jim sat down at his desk, looking relieved. “Okay, I'll talk to them later. But please, for my sake. If you're going to do something completely reckless and put yourself in danger…” He looked Steve in the eye. “Let someone know so you can have backup.”

“I promise.”

—

It's been too long since he took a life. Too long since his work had been in the papers. The fear the public had been feeling has been slowly tapering off, more and more people getting braver and staying out a little later.

He was supposed to kill the hot detective, but Hawkins Police Department got in the way. The man got too close to discovering his identity, and he couldn't have that. He went dormant for a while, until things cooled off. Now seems like the perfect time to come out of retirement.

But who to kill? Maybe the hot detective? No, trying that would be dangerous, considering he had nearly gotten himself caught. Maybe detective's boyfriend he's been spotted around town going on dates with? Ah, what was his name? Billy Hargrove. That would be a great way to rattle the detective, make him not think straight. Or maybe the detective’s best friend, the redhead. He wasn't sure of her name. Either would be a good option.

He sighed, looking down at the beer in front of him. He picked up the glass, swirling it around. He wasn't sure why he was at a bar. Maybe having a few drinks will help clear his head.

“Hi, handsome,” a flirty voice said.

It belonged to a cute redhead with a pretty smile and a very short mini skirt.

Bingo.

“I saw you looking all sad by yourself and thought you could use some company.” The woman sat down next to the man, and flipped her hair, looking into the his eyes.

He smirked, turning on his charm. “Well, aren't I lucky? The prettiest girl in this bar is going to keep me company.” He turned his torso towards her. “But, I know what this is about.”

The redhead raised an eyebrow. “Oh, you do?”

“Yeah. How about we get out of here and really have some fun?” He asked.

The woman gasped quietly, eyes widened in fake surprise. “I have no idea what you're talking about! What kind of woman do you take me for?”

He thought he made a mistake, until he saw the smile slowly form on the woman's face. “I don't know,” he replied, leaning in a little closer, his voice becoming a whisper, “Why don't we find out?”

The woman giggled, getting out of her chair and taking the man's hand, allowing her to be led out of the dingy dive bar and to a black car, sliding in the passenger seat. She noticed the interior was clean, not a speck of dirt, no personal items in it at all. “Is this a rental?” She asked. She opened the glove box, seeing nothing in there at all. No papers, no napkins, nothing.

“No? Why do you ask?” He replied, sounding confused. He shoved the key into the ignition and peeled out of the parking lot.

“Because there's nothing in here, and it's so clean, it smells like it was freshly washed today,” the woman replied, looking around, “Or are you a neat freak or something?”

“Something like that,” He replied. He kept his eyes on the road the entire time. “Hey, do you prefer the quarry or the woods?”

The woman shrugged. “Either one,” she replied, “I mean, it's not like we're leaving the car anyway. I figured we'd do it in the backseat.” She then looked over at the man. “Or maybe on top of the car? I mean, you being a neat freak and all. I guess you don't like it getting dirty, considering it reeks of chemicals in here. Do you mind if I roll down the window?” She didn't bother waiting for an answer, manually rolling down the passenger door window and letting the wind hit her face. Her lungs filled with the fresh air and she smiled.

Within a minute, the car was stopped at the quarry, a few feet from the edge of the cliff. He pulled the gearshift, putting the car in park, before turning towards the woman. “Well,” he said, “Why don't you go lay down in the backseat and I'll be right there?”

“Okay, baby,” the woman replied, getting out of the car and taking a moment to fiddle with the buttons on her blouse. “Hey, I never got your name. I-”

The moment her back was turned, he wrapped his hands around the woman's neck, grip tightening as she started to fight back. It took nearly a minute, but soon, he let go, watching the woman's body crumple to the ground in front of his feet.

Going back to the car, he grabbed a piece of paper and a red marker, writing a message, and placing it in the woman's hand, before driving off into the night.

Chapter Text

“Steve.”

No answer.

“Steve!”

Steve jolted out of his sleep, sitting straight up. His hair was a mess, eyes barely open as he looked over at the woman standing next to his bed. “What?! What happened?”

Robin held out Steve's walkie talkie, currently speaking to him.

‘Harrington, we need you. The killer is back. There's been a new body discovered. I repeat, a new body has been found.’ Jim's gruff voice was heard through the static of the walkie, sounding urgent.

Steve grabbed the device, holding down the button. “Where?”

‘The quarry. I need you and Buckley to get your asses down here pronto. We need you both.’

“On our way.”

It took nearly no time at all for the duo to get dressed and ready for work, Steve quickly doing his hair while Robin swiped her eyeliner along her lids. She applied her lipstick as she ran down the stairs, nearly hitting herself in the face as she pulled open the front door of her apartment.

Steve sped down the road, making it to the quarry in record time, wondering how he didn’t get pulled over. As his car skidded to a stop, he noticed all the police and the coroner's van. His eyes scanned the crowd, landing on his boss, standing there, next to the body. “When did this happen?” He asked as both him and Robin made their way to the commotion.

“She was found nearly half an hour ago, by a construction worker,” Jim explained, “Her windpipe is very obviously crushed, so we know it's the same killer.”

Steve leaned down, pinching the white sheet and pulling it up to reveal a redheaded woman. He gasped. “Holy shit, he got Carol.” His heart hurt; he and Carol used to be good friends back in high school.

“Carol Perkins?” Robin frowned, putting gloves on and leaning down over the body. She took pictures of everything, from how she was laying, to her face, neck, mouth, everything. Once she got to the hands, her eyebrows furrowed. “Wait, what's that?”

Steve saw something crumpled up in Carol's hand. Once he put gloves on, he unfurled the woman's fingers, pulling out a piece of paper. He uncrumpled it, his eyes widening.

It was a white sheet of paper with a blue border around the edges, clearly ripped out of a notebook, and had red, angry letters written on it.

‘MISS ME?’

“He's toying with us.” Jim sighed, holding out an evidence bag. “Place it in here. We'll dust it for prints.” He looked at Robin. “Get me your report for the body by the end of the day. And you.” He pointed to Steve. “Meet me in my office. We need to talk strategies.”

Within an hour, everyone was back in the station, having a cup of coffee for breakfast, brewed as strong as the shitty coffee maker can brew it.. Robin was in the morgue, doing a full examination of Carol's body and comparing her notes with the other victims’ reports. Of course it was the work of the same person, the serial killer they had been hunting down for months.

Steve, after having sent both notes to the lab to be tested, the one he got personally delivered to his home, and the one in Carol’s hand, he made his way to Jim's office, giving the door a gentle knock with his knuckle.

“Come in.”

Opening the door, Steve made his way inside.

“Shut it and sit down,” Jim ordered, voice gruff, sounding…worried?

Steve obliged, not wanting to disobey his boss. His weight sank into the uncomfortable wooden chair across from Jim’s desk. “What's this about?” He asked.

“Well, I've been thinking about everything that's happened lately.”

“And?”

“I think you're right.”

Steve frowned, confused. “What do you mean?”

“I mean,” Jim placed both elbows on the desk, leaning against them. “This strategy is not working. We'll never get ahead of him if we keep doing the same thing. He's expecting it. So what we need to do is something completely different. And this sounds crazy, but…” He looked Steve in the eye. “He wants you. So, you're going to be our bait in this plan.”

Steve's frown deepened. “What?”

“This is what you wanted to do, right? Why are you questioning it now that you have permission?” Jim asked. “It's simple! You go somewhere alone with a mic, we'll listen. And if the killer shows up and tries something, we'll be right outside hiding so we can get to you quickly.”

Steve thought about it. “I mean, I don't know if he's even going to show up. Or where to go. I'll do it, but I can't guarantee anything will happen.”

“Well, we can keep trying it until it happens.”

“But what if he catches on?”

Jim shrugged. “How will he know if he's not showing up? Besides, we'll be watching the whole time. We'll see who shows up each day, and if it's the same people, we have our suspects.”

Steve just nodded. “That's smart, I guess.” He sat up straight. “Okay, I'll do it. We can start tonight. But where?”

The rest of the day went by slowly, nerves starting to get to Steve, the shivers creeping up his spine as he stood in the middle of the quarry. The tape holding the microphone to his chest was starting to make him itch, but he tried to pretend it wasn't there. He looked around on the ground, over the cliff, trying to make it seem like he was there for work.

It seemed like Steve was there forever, giving up standing and sitting on the hood of his car. The ear piece he had in finally spoke. “Okay, this isn't working. Come to the surveillance van.”

They did this for a week straight, letting Steve pretend to investigate the previous scenes of the crimes, waiting, hoping for somebody to arrive, but it never happened. He went to the bank, the alleyway behind the coffee shop. He even went to his house. Nothing at all. Both himself and Jim were getting discouraged. All they could do now was wait for the fingerprints to come back.

Chapter Text

“Ugh, my head…”

Steve slowly made his way into the kitchen, straight to the coffee pot. His hair was all over the place, jutting out in different directions, and his outfit was just a pair of pink boxers with little hearts on them.

“The wine killed you, too?” Robin asked, sitting at the little kitchen table, nursing a cup of coffee in her hands.

Steve nodded, sitting down with a sigh. “Maybe next time, we stick with white wine,” he suggested, “Red makes my head feel like it's exploding.”

“Agreed.” Robin paused to take a sip, before putting the cup down. “Also, maybe we should stick to wine that's not in the discount bin.”

Steve held a finger out, pointing to Robin. “It was both our mistake! You liked it because of the label!”

“It had a cute little bunny on it! How could a bunny hurt us?”

“The bunny was deceiving!” Steve said. He grabbed the bottle of Tylenol off the table and opened it, popping two of the pills in his mouth and chasing them with his coffee. “What will cure your hangover? Eggs and bacon or a greasy burger?”

Robin nearly threw up when eggs were mentioned. “Burger, definitely.”

“Let's get dressed. We can go straight to work from there,” Steve replied. He looked down into his mug. “I'm finishing my coffee, first.”

After their coffees were finished and the mugs were washed, both Steve and Robin were showered and dressed. Robin was finishing her makeup in the mirror and Steve was toeing his shoes on when the phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Morning, Steve.”

Steve smiled, immediately recognizing the voice as his boyfriend. “Hi, angel. What's up?”

“Not much, just missed your sweet face,” Billy replied, “Hey, I was wondering… How about tonight, we have a picnic?”

Steve smiled. “A picnic? That sounds great. Where were you thinking?”

Hours passed as the workday dragged. The warm afternoon sun slowly fell as it faded to nighttime. And soon, Steve was out of work for the night, after an uneventful and disappointing day. After he went back to Robin's house and showered the day off of him, he got ready for his date and left to meet his boyfriend. His heart fluttered as he saw the baby blue Camaro parked near the entrance to the lake. He got out and walked closer to the water, finally spotting his boyfriend. “Hi, angel.”

Billy had arranged everything beautifully for a moonlit picnic. There was a thick blanket on the lush grass a few feet from the water, a picnic basket opened and filled with different finger foods and desserts, a bottle of wine and two glasses, and Billy himself, standing to greet Steve. He grinned. “Hi, baby.” He wrapped his boyfriend in a hug, giving him a sweet kiss. “I missed you.”

“I missed you too,” Steve replied, giving Billy multiple little kisses on the lips. He let himself be led to the blanket, sitting down next to his boyfriend. “This is beautiful,” he commented, “You know, I really needed this.”

“I know.” Billy poured two glasses of wine, handing one to Steve. “You seemed stressed last time we talked. What's wrong? Maybe talking about it will help you.”

“First off, I'm so glad this is white wine,” Steve replied, taking a sip, before continuing. “Robin and I had some shitty red wine last night and I swear, both of our heads were going to explode this morning. But second, it's this case! We got a new victim and even with Carol getting killed, we're not any closer to finding the bastard!”

Billy frowned. “Carol Perkins? He got her? That's sad, I was friends with her and her boyfriend.”

“From high school, yes! How crazy is that? Like I hadn't seen her in years and now this maniac picked her to kill next?” Steve sighed. “God, this case is kicking my ass.” He sat up, looking at Billy. “And get this- the asshole sent notes. First threatening me, then another to taunt me! Dick move, it's definitely to get under my skin, and it worked! But they both got sent to the lab, the fingerprints collected and analyzed. They matched, so it's the same guy who sent them, but when they got put into the system? Nothing! This guy's not a criminal, not one who got caught in Indiana anyway. So we sent them to the national database.”

Billy followed along, letting his boyfriend ramble on about work, getting everything off of his chest. He looked confused then. “National database? What's that?” He asked.

“It's the database that the FBI uses to see if criminals have committed any crimes in other states. If he's not in our system but he got caught doing something in another state, everything will pop up. His entire record,” Steve explained, putting his wine down with a sigh. “So, we're waiting for that to come back. Hopefully he did something like shoplifting or something just so we can have a name.” He shook his head, looking at Billy. “Sorry for venting. I'm just tired of this weighing on my mind. I'm so sick of this case!”

Billy gave Steve a small smile. “It's okay, baby. Like I said, I saw how stressed you are and I figured a nice relaxing date will help calm you down.”

“Well, it's really doing the trick. I mean, the nice cool air, the soothing sounds of the water and the crickets chirping, the wine. And not to mention, it's with my favorite person in the world.” He then caught himself. “I mean, my favorite man in the world. Sorry, babe, but Robin is forever my favorite person.”

Billy chuckled softly, the smile on his face. “I know. I would never dream of taking the crown from Robin,” he replied. He reached over and placed his hand over Steve's. “This is a nice spot, huh? I used to come here a lot to think.”

“It is.” Steve looked up at the cliff. “You know, up there is where we found Carol's body.”

Billy's smile dropped from his lips. “Oh. I had no idea! I'm sorry. Should we go? We can go back to my place or I'll get us a table at a restaurant. I feel bad now. I knew Carol was found murdered, I just didn't know where. Shit.”

Steve shook his head. “No! No, it's okay, baby. Don't worry about it. You didn't know and you went through all this effort and it's beautiful. Honestly, it makes me feel so much better knowing you care this much about me.”

“Why wouldn't I?” Billy asked, giving Steve a confused look. “I care about you so much! You and my sister are my entire world, Steve. I couldn't picture a life without either of you.”

A soft gasp from Steve's lips broke the moment of silence between them, and he felt his heart flutter faster. “Billy…”

“Yeah?” Billy bit his lip, his voice only a whisper.

Steve leaned in, placing a gentle hand on Billy's face, looking into his eyes. “I've been wanting to tell you something for a while now, and I was waiting until I knew you felt the same way.”

“What is it?” Billy felt his heartbeat start racing. His hand moved to cup Steve's cheek.

“I…” Steve broke his gaze for a moment, trying to get the words out. His eyes went to the ground between them.

Billy gently lifted Steve's chin, a shy smile on his face. “You… love me?” He tried. “Because I love you. Been feeling it for a while. Just couldn't find the right time to tell you.”

Steve nodded, looking relieved that he wasn't the first to say those words. “I love you, Billy. So much. I've had such a big crush on you since high school and just getting to know you better and to actually be yours… It's perfect. And now I'm head over heels for you.”

“I love you too, Steve,” Billy replied, happiness in his tone, his smile spreading into a grin, “God, this is the best day of my life.”

The rest of the night was filled with whispered words of love and cuddling under the stars, pointing out constellations and just enjoying each other's company. Their shared, content smiles didn't leave their lips once.

Chapter Text

Steve Harrington. That damn detective has been on his mind for a week now. He couldn't sleep, couldn't eat. He had to get the man. But how? He wasn't stupid, he knew Steve showing up at random places by himself and staying for hours was nothing but a thinly veiled ploy to lure him right in. Hell, he nearly got noticed by the coffee shop! It wasn't going to work. But now that the detective was expecting him to get him when he's alone, he'll have to get creative. Make a trap of his own. But what? If he tried to do anything in public, he’d immediately be noticed. He’d be seen and then all the fun he’s been having, all the work he’s been doing, will be for nothing! Well, he’d just have to think of something to do, some way to get Detective Harrington alone.

Maybe he could write another note, a hand delivered letter, inviting him somewhere secluded. No, knowing his luck, the Detective would most likely be within earshot of the Chief of Police, or mic’d up. Or, the Detective's house will be under surveillance the entire time, and they would see him deliver the letter.

Ugh. Being a mysterious serial killer eluding the police is hard work. But, his only priority was the detective. One more kill, and he would be done.

…..Oh, who was he kidding? He has fun doing this. Nothing could make him stop. Not the Chief, not Steve Harrington, not anyone!

He chuckled softly as he brainstormed different ways to lure the man into a trap, to get him alone. What if he… No, that wouldn’t work. But what if… No. He sighed, opening the passenger side door to his car. He started wiping down the dashboard, cleaning out the scent of his latest victim’s perfume. Everything she touched, where she sat, got wiped down or vacuumed. He couldn’t have anyone find a random red hair and have an inkling of a thought of him being the killer. No. He was a contributing member of society, for God’s sake!

“Holy shit.” His eyes widened, hand stilling. “I got it.”

Pulling out the notebook he kept in his car and the red marker, he began to write a note, longer than the two or three word note he usually left for the Detective. Once he wrote everything he needed to say, he folded it nearly and placed it in his pants pocket, patting it so it would stay there.

Now…when to strike?

He waited hours upon hours, being completely unsuspecting at his job. No. There, he was happy, personable, and charming. None of his coworkers have any idea of what a monster he really is once he leaves those double doors every night, dormant until the workday is over. Then, the real him comes out. He comes alive. He feels alive.

Finally, he's able to leave his job for the night. After waving goodbye to his coworkers, he got in his car and drove off, shedding the layers of his persona he puts on. He didn't care about any of those people. Hell, he didn't care about anyone. The only thing he cared about was his bloodlust.

As he turned the corner, he spotted the perfect victim, a mother in her driveway, looking as if she had just gotten home from the grocery store. Perfect. He put on the black mask he kept in his car, the one he used only in case he was in public, and parked the car a house down from the victim.

After looking around and seeing nobody outside, he got out of the car, creeping up behind the woman, who was bent over, torso half in the trunk of her car. With one swift motion, he clamped his hand hard onto her mouth, suppressing her scream.

“Shh,” he murmured, “You're going to disrupt your neighbor's dinner.”

With his other hand, he began squeezing the woman's neck, choking her hard, feeling her squirm in his arms. After a few moments, her eyes bulging out of her head and tearing up, he let go.

The woman gasped and choked, her breath coming in short shallow spurts as she slowly tried to breathe normally.

“Turn around,” he ordered, voice stern.

The woman let her tears slide down her cheeks as she did as told. “What do you want?” She asked, voice wrecked. “Money? My car?” She knew none of his victims were left alive, so this added another level of fear, not knowing what to expect.

“No.” He pulled the note out of his pants pocket, grabbing the woman's hand and placing it in the palm. “I want you to deliver this to Chief Jim Hopper. He'll know who this is for. I'll know if you don't, Karen.”

The woman looked down at the note. heart stopping as she heard her name.

“How do you know my name? Who are you? What is thi-”

As she looked up, the masked man was gone, hearing the car peeling down the road. She knew this was different. This was a warning.

Chapter Text

It's been one week since the incident with Karen Wheeler. One week since the assailant had turned the entire case on its head and left a victim alive. One week since Steve Harrington had received the killer's note.

‘The quarry, 9:30pm, next Friday. No backup, no wires, no weapons. You'll get your answers then,’ the note had read.

Karen had called the police immediately after that incident, handing the note over to the Chief and telling him every detail she possibly could about both the killer and his car. The entire station is perplexed as to why she was left alive, or why the note wasn't delivered like the first one.

The make and model of the killer's car was found, sort of matching the description of the eyewitness’ testimony from the bank. It was small and black. Unfortunately, the killer wore a mask and had a voice changer sewn into the mouth part so his voice would be unrecognizable. The fingerprints also had about one more day until the results would be ready, so they're still stuck where they were before. The case is still unsolvable right now.

Both the Chief and Steve knew the note was for the Detective. He wasn't stupid; the killer had been toying with him the whole time. But now, tonight, he was finally, finally going to get some answers, as the note had promised. He wasn't happy about the no weapons or backup part, but Jim had decided to be sneaky, placing a wire on the man anyway.

“What he doesn't know won't hurt you,” he had said.

Steve sighed, growing more and more anxious as the time ticked by, the designated time growing closer. In case anything happened, he spent time with Billy, cuddling and making out with the man, talking to him.

Steve also spent time with Robin, having a nice dinner with her at his favorite restaurant, ordering his favorite food, and talking to her. They ended up back at her house, and sat on the couch, watching their favorite movie, taking turns quoting each line. He held the plush elephant Billy had won him in his arms, hugging it tightly as he tried to relax.

“Steve?”

“Hmm?” Steve looked over at his friend.

“It's 9:15.” Robin's tone was sad. She didn't want Steve to have to go, and she definitely didn't want him to die. “Please, do me a favor and don't get hurt. I can't live without you, you know.”

Those words caused Steve to tear up, and he pulled Robin into his arms, holding her tightly. “I won't. Who else will annoy the shit out of you?” He heard Robin's faint giggle into his shirt, and he smiled sadly. “I love you, Robbie.”

“I love you too, Stevie.” Robin gave Steve a kiss on the cheek, before hugging the man again. “BFF’s?”

Steve laughed softly, nodding, tears in his eyes. “Forever and always.” He stood up then and walked to the doorway, holding the plush elephant in the crook of his arms. “I'll see you later.” With that, he was gone.

It took Steve nearly no time at all to arrive at the top of the quarry, where the last victim was found. It did take him a few minutes to emotionally compose himself, to hide the tears. No, he couldn't cry in front of a serial killer. He hugged the plushie, giving it a kiss, before getting out of the car and walking towards the cliff, waiting.

Within minutes, the crunching of gravel was heard growing closer. It then stopped several feet away.

“Detective Steve Harrington,” the voice said.

Steve turned around, laying eyes on a tall man with a black mask. He calmed himself, though on the inside, he was terrified. “I assume you wrote me the note?” he asked.

The man nodded. “I did. You did good listening. No backup, no wires, and I don't see a weapon.”

“You set the rules, so I followed,” Steve replied coolly. “So, you mentioned in your note that I would get answers.”

The man nodded. “That is correct. So, what would you like to know?”

There were so many questions Steve could start with, but he chose the one on his mind since this started. “What caused this?”

The man shrugged. “My mother left me when I was younger. I resented her for it so now I kill women that remind me of her.”

“So Robin was right. I should have believed her,” Steve said to himself. He then frowned, getting back on track. “And why leave Karen Wheeler alive?”

“A warning,” the man replied, “It also threw a wrench in your entire investigation and it makes me laugh thinking about the chaos one little detail causes.”

Steve thought that was the case. “Why do you want me? Is it because I got too close to figuring it out?”

The man cocked his head to the side to think for a moment. “Well, yes, but also, I saw you investigating the Wheeler death with your little redhead friend you're staying with and knew in that instant. I knew I had to have you.”

Steve's eyes widened. He was terrified that Robin would be the next victim. He knew Steve was staying with her! “You mean to kill me?” Steve asked, confused.

“Killing is always the endgame, Detective.”

Steve looked down, sighing softly. He should have known. “Why now? I mean, why this meetup? And why are you answering my questions?”

“Well, first, because I think closure is important,” The man explained, “I'm going to kill you right after this anyways, so why not tell you everything?” He shrugged. “And honestly… I knew you showing up to the scenes of the crime by yourself was a setup, and I couldn't think of a good plan to get you alone. So this is really just speeding it up, at his point.”

Those words chilled Steve to his bones. He was going to die today. His killer got bored waiting so he sped up the death day. His breath caught in his throat. It took a second for him to breathe. “You… You're going to strangle me like the others? Or did you have a special plan for me?”

Even with the mask, it was obvious the killer had a sadistic grin on his lips. “Oh, Steve. Getting my hands around your throat will be the highlight of my life.” He cracked his knuckles. “Now, are you ready or do you have any more questions?”

Think, Steve! Think of something, anything else to ask!

“Do you have any remorse?” Steve asked softly, a tear sliding down his cheek.

The man was taken back to that question. He was quiet for a second, before shaking his head. “Remorse is something weak humans have. I'm not weak. Now stay still.” He took a step forward.

“Wait!” Steve held a hand out. “One more question!” He looked the man in the eye. “Am I your final victim?”

The man shook his head. “You really think you're that damn special, Detective? Of course not. You're not the last. My next victim won't be the last. Maybe next, I'll kill that cute redhead friend of yours. What's her name? Robin? Who knows? Maybe even the Chief himself!”

Steve didn't know what to do. He was blanking. In an act of pure desperation, he pulled a move he learned in grade school.

“What the hell is that?” He pointed behind the man. Once the man had his back turned, Steve pulled out the pistol he had tucked in the hem of his pants. He aimed it directly at the killer.

The man turned around, chuckling as he saw the gun. “Poor, sweet Steve. You wouldn't hurt someone you love, would you?”

“Wha-”

With one swift motion, the killer had pulled off his mask, revealing bright blue eyes, light blonde curly hair, sun kissed skin, and a familiar smirk. “Surprise.”

Steve's heart dropped into his stomach, breaking on the way down. “Billy?”

“Who else?” Billy asked, looking ecstatic that he finally had the mask off.

Hurt wasn't the word. Shocked wasn't it, either. There was no word in the English language accurate enough to describe the pain Steve had felt. He's been dating a serial killer. He had fallen in love with a serial killer. He fucked a serial killer today!

“I- it's been you the entire time?!”

“Yeah, babe!” Billy exclaimed, letting out an excited laugh. “You seriously hadn't suspected at all?”

“No!” Steve nearly yelled. “Why would I ever think that the love of my life is the same man I've been tracking down for nearly a year?! How could you, Billy? I loved you! I poured my heart out to you! I told you so many things about the case!” He then gasped, pieces of the puzzle finally starting to connect. “That's why the killings stopped for a while! That was when I told you we had DNA of the killer! You had an injured hand right after and you told me it was because you sliced it with a Swiss army knife! Alarm bells were ringing in my head but I ignored them because I loved you! Then a week ago, I told you that the fingerprints are going into the FBI database and we'll get the results soon! That's why you did this now.”

It was all making sense for Steve. But he had to admit, this really fucking hurt. He had no idea how he was going to explain this to anyone, or come to terms with it.

“Yeah. You were getting way too close for comfort, so I laid low,” Billy explained calmly, “That was the only reason I started dating you, was to try to get any info about the case. But, stupid you, you don't shut the fuck up about it and tell me every detail unprompted! So now I know everything you do about my case!” He laughed, a maniacal laugh. He lied before about their date being the best day of his life. This was the best day of his life.

Steve sniffled. “So, all of that, our entire relationship, was-”

“Bullshit? Yeah,” Billy answered, “Every detail.”

“What about Max? How is she going to feel about this?” Steve asked.

Billy's expression changed, going from nearly giddy to scarily stoic. “Don't bring her into this. Never bring her into this! She can never know!” He was yelling now. “Now come here! Any last words?”

“Yeah,” Steve replied, “Go to hell!”

Steve aimed, but due to his tears, not very well, so he missed, shooting Billy in the leg instead.

“You fucking bastard!” Billy clamped his hand onto the bullet wound in his thigh. “You're dead! I'm going to kill you just like I killed everybody else! I can't wait to watch the life leave your eyes! You'll be dead like all your friends!” He lunged towards Steve.

Another gunshot rang in the air, hitting Billy and making him drop. Chief Jim Hopper stood there twenty feet away, lowering his weapon. He glanced at Steve. “Call for backup.”

With a sniffle, Steve ran to the Chief's truck and grabbed the walkie talkie. “This is Detective Harrington. We need backup at the quarry. I repeat, come to the quarry. The serial killer has been found.”

Chapter Text

‘The Hawkins Serial Killer Caught! Updated!’

Ten months has passed since the Hawkins Police Department had caught the serial killer wreaking havoc in the little town of Hawkins, Indiana. California native, Billy Hargrove, has been revealed to be the killer after nearly a year of terror.

Six confirmed victims have been found, as well as one victim in California years prior, when Hargrove was still a minor. The DNA evidence collected from fingerprints back in California, as well as fingerprints from letters sent by Hargrove to lead detective Steve Harrington to threaten him were found to be a match.

Harrington, in a press conference, said the note from Karen Wheeler, whom Hargrove attacked but left alive, was for him, as he had been the recipient of previous letters. This final note instructed Harrington to meet him at the quarry in town, at night, alone and with no weapons.

Harrington wore a wire and once Hargrove showed up, proceeded to ask many questions, all of which were recorded by Chief Jim Hopper and later shown during the trial. Once the verdict was in, the jury found Hargrove guilty, and he was sentenced to 25 years to life, with no parole, where he will remain.

Lead Detective Steve Harrington went on to not only get promoted after his big case, but wrote a book about his ordeal. He's being supported by his best friend, Coroner Robin Buckley, who helped in the case, and his musician boyfriend, Eddie Munson, whose wife had tragically been a victim of Hargrove last year.’

Steve sighed, putting the newspaper down. He was tired of reading about himself and the shit he went through. It still breaks his heart to see Billy's face in the press. Part of him still loved the man. It hurt him to realize it, but knowing the man would never get out of prison in this lifetime, and knowing the atrocities he had committed, they can't be together.

Steve had put all his memories with Billy in a box that he hid under his bed. Whenever he was feeling particularly upset, he'd take the box out and hug the plush elephant or look at the picture of him and Billy together.

He'd never take it out when his boyfriend was home, though. Eddie was very understanding and sweet, and he's been so supportive during the trial. But this… It would hurt him.

They had always been friends, but after Steve nearly dying, he needed a friend. Someone that can somewhat relate to what he was feeling. Both had been tragically affected by Billy, emotionally tortured by the man for far too long. With their shared trauma, they had grown even closer. Months later, after a shared breakdown and a heat of the moment kiss, they realized feelings were now a factor. Soon after, they tested the waters, dating secretly, until Robin eventually weaseled the information out and they became public with their relationship.

Now they're going strong, living together with Eddie's daughter, Layla, and in love. The love for their previous lovers were still there, but Chrissy would want her husband to move on eventually. And Billy… Well, he killed a bunch of people who were close to Steve, including Eddie's wife, so fuck what he thinks.

—

“Boyfriend?”

Billy threw the newspaper on the ground, angry. How dare Steve start dating someone else?! After all that time together. After everything they had been through. His boyfriend got himself another boyfriend.

Well… it's not like he actually had feelings for the man. He just played along to get more information about his case, and to keep him right where he wanted. But still!

Just wait until his escape plan works. Steve is going to be so surprised to see him! And then he'd kill Eddie and Steve would take him back like nothing happened.

The cell door opened then. “Hargrove, time for your medicine,” the nurse said, holding out a little paper cup with pills in it.

Just wait until he breaks out….

Only a matter of time….