Asshole Steve idea: the first time Steve sees Billy's scars and bruises are when they are alone in his room. Steve is super tender and caring towards Billy, doing everything he can to treat them and asking if he's okay and how he got them. It's the first time Billy has ever gotten this kind of affection before and now he finally believes he has found someone who will truly care for him and give him the love he deserves.
The next time Neil has a go at him, his first instinct is to go straight to Steve's house. But this time it's different. Tommy and Carol are their, drinking and partying in the other room. Billy asks he can stay over for a while but Steve denies him, he tells him that now isn't a good time. Steve has always had this habit of separating his romantic relationships from his other relationships.
But Billy is so desperate, he nearly in tears, begging Steve to let him in. He doesn't even to tend to his wounds he just wants to be near Steve. Billy believes that just being in Steve's presence is enough to give him some sort of comfort. Steve becomes so enraged by Billy's pestering that he finally snaps, "OKAY SHUT UP! DON'T YOU KNOW WHEN TO BACK OFF?! I said now wasn't a good time, I don't care where you go or who you go cry to, you can't be here. I don't want you here!!!"
Steve's dismissive tone is so reminiscent of Neil's that it makes Billy turn back into the scared child demeanor he gets when Neil snaps at him. He even holds his hands in a military stance similar to when he gets scolded. He apologizes in a monotone voice and has to hold back saying the word "sir" like he's talking to his father. Steve slams the door on him and Billy walks back to his car emotionlessly.
After another beating from Neil days later, Steve actually does tend to Billy's wounds while they are alone. Billy recognizes his place now, what he means to Steve, he understands that this is the dynamic of their relationship. Alone, Steve Will make Billy feel like he's the only boy in the world that truly matters, but in public he won't even bother giving him the time of day. This is not a healthy relationship and Billy knows this, however, if this is the only chance Billy gets to having some comfort and support in his life, then he's willing to go with it.
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