#stevieeeee

the summer sun filtered through the lace curtains of Mrs. Adler cozy living room, casting warm patterns on the worn carpet. you were twelve, sitting quietly on the edge of the big floral sofa, knees tucked together and hands folded in your lap

your grandma had brought you along for her weekly visit with her new friend, Mrs. Adler. the two older women were already chatting away in the kitchen, laughing about the latest neighborhood gossip

you weren’t the braves kid so you weren’t used to new places, even if it was just a short drive from your parents house. you liked being with your grandma because you made you feel safe but meeting new people made your stomach do little flips

the front door burst open with a loud bang

“Grandma! I’m home! I found the coolest rock by the creek—look how it sparkles when you—”

a boy with messy blonde hair and bright, sparkling eyes came running into the room. he was wearing scuffed sneakers, shorts and a t-shirt with a dinosaur on it. he stopped when he saw you, the rock still clutched in his hand

you blinked at him, cheeks warming

his whole face lit up like someone had turned on every light in the house

“Hi! I’m Steven! Who are you?” he didn’t wait for an answer before plopping down right next to you on the couch, close enough that his knee bumped yours “You’re my grandmas friend’s granddaughter, right? That’s so cool. Do you like rocks? This one’s kinda magic, I think... Or maybe it’s just shiny? Anyway—”

he was talking a mile a minute, waving the rock around like it was treasure. you couldn’t help but smile a tiny bit, even though you felt too shy to say much

your grandma peeked in from the kitchen doorway, exchanging a knowing look with his grandma. both women’s faces softened with identical fond smiles

Steven suddenly stopped mid-sentence and turned to face you fully, eyes wide and earnest “Hey… do you want to be friends?”

you stared at him, surprised by how fast and easy the question came out. no awkwardness. just… Steven

your voice came out quiet and you nodded “O-okay”

“Yes!” Steven pumped his fist like he’d just won a prize “Come on! I’ll show you my fort in the backyard. It’s the best one on the whole neighborhood. My grandpa helped me build it”

he hopped off the couch and offered you his hand without hesitation. after a second, you took it. his palm was warm and a little sticky from whatever this damn little creature was touching before (of course he doesn’t wash his hands)

the two grandmas watched from the kitchen as Steven tugged you gently toward the back door, already chattering about his rock collection (Grandpa said he could play real loud) and how he was going to be a rockstar one day and promised he will show you his guitar skills (non existen btw) later and you happily agreed

“They’re adorable” your grandma whispered, pressing a hand to her heart

Mrs. Adler smiled “I’m really surprised someone can keep up with this little energy demon”

your grandma’s smile faded “...What?”

“Nothing” Mrs Adler smiled and softly patted her arm “I mean, Steven’s been needing a good friend. And look at her—she’s already smiling more than I’ve seen all afternoon”

outside, Steven held forts door open for you like a gentleman “After you, best friend!”

you ducked inside, giggling softly as he followed and immediately started explaining the “secret entrance” he’d made with an old blanket. he didn’t mind that you were quieter he just filled the space with stories and questions, listening patiently when you did speak

by the time the sun started to dip lower, you’d named the shiny rock “sparkles”, ate half a pack of gum and promised to meet again next weekend

Steven walked you and your grandma to the car, waving both arms “Bye! Don’t forget—next time we’re making mud pies! The good kind!”

you waved back, shy but happy, cheeks pink

your grandma chuckled as she started the car “That boy is something else. But I think the two of you are going to be just fine”

you looked out the window, still smiling

the next years with Steven blurred together quickly. your friendship with Steven only grew stronger,you spent most afternoons at your grandmas houses and the spots you claimed as your own—a quiet corner of the clearing with the big oak tree, the abandoned lot behind the old theater where he practiced drumming on buckets, and sometimes your parents’ house when they were out

Steven was still the same ray of sunshine, talking a mile a minute, dragging you into every adventure. you stayed the quieter one but you showed that you cared in the little ways that mattered: packing extra sandwiches for him when he’d forget to eat, slipping him your homemade cookies or showing up at his grandparents door with a thermos of soup when he sounded tired on the phone

at thirteen, Steven decided he was going to be a drummer no matter what. he started doing jobs—washing dishes at the local diner after school, sweeping floors, even helping unload trucks sometimes. he’d come home late, knuckles scraped, clothes smelling like grease, grinning ear to ear about the few dollars he’d earned toward his first real drum kit

you hated it

everytime you couldn’t sleep until Steven came home so you waited for him until he showed up while your parents thought you're sleeping at your grandmas house

headlights finally swept around the corner. Steven hopped off his bike, kicking the stand down with a tired but triumphant clatter. his messy blond hair was sticking up in every direction, his t-shirt stained with dishwater and grease from the diner

“Steven Adler, it’s almost midnight” you said fiercely, standing up as he approached. your voice cracked with worry “What if something happens? You’re out there alone and you’re so… careless. Please be more careful”

he stopped at the bottom of the porch steps, blinking up at you even after a double shift washing dishes. then his face split into that huge, sunshine grin

“Aw, don’t worry so much!” he bounced up the steps two at a time and ruffled your hair with a laugh, messing it up completely. before you could protest, he pulled you into a quick, tight hug. he smelled like lemon soap from the diner sink and boy-sweat but you were used to it by now “I’ve got this. Made ten bucks tonight—closer to my drum kit! And… thanks for waiting up. Means a lot”

you hugged him back harder than you meant to, burying your face in his shoulder for a second “I brought you food. I thought you probably forgot to eat again”

Steven pulled back, eyes lighting up at the paper bag “You’re the best, you know that?” he flopped down on the porch swing beside you, already unwrapping the sandwich “Tell me about your day while I eat? Did you make those cookies again?”

you sat shoulder to shoulder, listening to him talk between bites about the weird customers and how he slipped on the wet floor 10 times and his ass hurts now

he is protective of you too in his own way whenever anyone gave you trouble at school or in the neighborhood. he’d step right in front of you, serious “Back off. She’s with me”

he made friends everywhere: the skater kids at the park, the music nerds, even older guys who let him jam with them. you’d trail along quietly, sticking close to his side while he introduced you with pride “This is my best friend! She’s the coolest, even if she doesn’t talk much” you went along with it, happy just to be included

but there were moments when new girls entered the picture. Steven fell hard and fast like everything he did—usually for some pretty girl from the school he barely attended (he was too busy working or hanging out with friends). he’d gush about them for weeks and you’d feel a quiet twist in your chest, sitting a little further away at the grandmas’ kitchen table or skipping a hangout because “he’s probably with her”

Steven’s biggest crush was on a girl named Lola who hung around the park where the older kids skated. she had big 80s hair and wore her clothes like the rock girls in magazines

you were sitting under your oak tree spot one Saturday, sharing a Walkman—his latest possession—when he started gushing

“She laughed at my joke about the drumsticks today! I think she likes me. I’m gonna ask her to the movies this weekend”

you nodded quietly, picking at the grass. the familiar twist in your chest was back “That’s… nice, Steven. She seems cool”

he didn’t notice your quieter tone. he never did when he was excited. for the next two weeks you saw less of him. he’d wave at you in the hallways or at the grandmas houses but then he’d be off with Lola or practicing with new friends he’d made at the music store

one day your grandma found you sitting on the curb “Honey… it’s okay to feel a little left out. But you know how girls are - they come and go even faster. Now come on I made your favorite dinner”

she was right. two weeks later Lola got bored of Stevens wild energy and moved on to a boy with a car. Steven showed up at your house with a black eye from skateboarding (he said) and a mixtape he’d made for you

“Sorry I’ve been kinda avoiding you. Here—new tapes I copied for you”

even though you had mixed feeling about his girlfriends and all you never showed him that you didn’t care about him. you always were there for him when he needed you and always listened

through it all, you two found your rhythm. late-night talks under the oak tree where he’d share his dreams of Hollywood and rock ‘n’ roll and you’d remind him to eat and rest, handing him a homemade lunch you’d packed “just in case”. him walking you home every single time with his arm casually slung around your shoulders, even when it was out of his way, scanning the streets protectively. shared walkman listening to his favorite bands

on your last day of summer before everything changed you two decided to have a slow river day — a lot of swimming and other shit Steven wanted

the California sun beat down mercilessly. Steven had shown up at your house right after lunch, his wild blond hair even messier than usual from the bike ride over, a beat-up backpack slung over one shoulder and that unstoppable grin lighting up his face

“River day!” he announced, not even waiting for you to invite him in “I packed snacks and my grandmas new blanket. Come on, it’s too hot to stay inside”

seeing him so full of energy melted you into a shy smile “Okay… but you have to promise not to do anything too crazy”

“Me? Crazy? Never” he said with an exaggerated wink, already grabbing your hand and tugging you toward the door

the river wasn’t far away but you had to go there with your bikes so it would be faster — a hidden river spot that widened into a perfect swimming spot surrounded by trees and big flat rocks. it had been one of your secret spots for years but today it felt more special since it was the last day of summer

as soon as you arrived, Steven forgot about his bike, kicked off his sneakers and took of his clothes and ran straight into the water with a loud whoop, soaking you from head to toe before you even set your bag down

“Steven!” you squealed, laughing despite yourself

he surfaced, shaking his blond hair like a wet dog, water droplets catching the sunlight “Your turn! Don’t be shy!”

you took your clothes off too that revealed your cute swimsuit and you went in more carefully but Steven wasn’t having it. he splashed you until you finally splashed him back and soon the two of you were in a full water war—laughing, chasing each other over slippery rocks. at one point he slipped on a mossy stone and pulled you down with him into a shallow waters. you landed half on top of him, both of you breathless and giggling

for a second, your faces were so close that you thought time has slowed down. his bright eyes locked on yours, that sunshine smile softening into something warmer. you felt your heart stutter

then Steven shifted, trying to sit up and your noses bumped awkwardly—followed by your lips brushing in a clumsy, accidental kiss. it was quick, soft and completely unintentional… but your cheeks burned instantly and a fluttery warmth spread through your chest. you liked it. more than you expected. you pulled back, flustered, staring at the water

Steven blinked, then burst into bright laughter, rubbing the back of his neck

“Whoa!—Did we just…?” he grinned but there was a faint pink on his cheeks too “Accident! But… not terrible, right?” he splashed you lightly to break the tension “C’mon, race you to the big rock!”

you nodded quickly, heart racing but the smile wouldn’t leave your face. the kiss lingered in your mind but you both let the fun carry it away

later, as the sun dipped lower you decided to change back to your clothes. Steven headed behind a cluster of thick bushes for privacy “I’ll yell when I’m done!”

you changed quickly behind another set of rocks. but as you stepped out, adjusting your shorts, Steven emerged at the exact same moment from his side—completely naked, towel forgotten on the ground behind him. he had clearly misjudged the timing

you both froze

your eyes widened, face flushing crimson all the way to your ears

Steven yelped, grabbing for the towel and wrapping it around his waist in record time “Oh man—sorry! I thought you were still changing! Don’t look—I mean, you already… Fuck!”

you spun around, hands over your face, mortified but unable to stop the nervous giggle that escaped “Steven Adler! You’re a complete dumbass!”

his laughter rang out behind you, loud and bright as ever “Hey, it’s just me! We’ve known each other since we were little. Nothing you haven’t almost seen before, right?” he came up beside you, now properly covered, gently bumping your shoulder “You’re super red again. It’s cute”

you peeked through your fingers, still flushed but laughing with him. the awkwardness dissolved the way it always did—into teasing and easy comfort. he never made it weird. it stayed light, even if your heart was still pounding

to shake off the embarrassment, Steven declared it was ice cream time. you biked to the little corner store nearby, still damp and sun-warmed. he bought two cones with his latest gig earnings—one for you, chocolate for him—and you sat on the curb outside, shoulders touching

the kiss from earlier hung quietly between you but neither brought it up. instead, Steven talked excitedly about a new band he wanted to jam with and you reminded him to wear his helmet next time he rode late at night. when you finishedyou walked the bikes back toward home

“Best day ever” he said softly

“Yeah” you agreed, shy but happy. little did you know it was an end of some era

life had shifted after the end of summer. Steven was chasing his dream harder than ever—he moved out from his grandmas, searched for a band and even did a few small gigs around LA. you were still his biggest supporter. you went to every show you could, cheering the loudest from the back and later listening for hours as he excitedly described new beats he’d come up with

but the time together had grown thinner. Steven’s energy was now split between you and the scene he was breaking into, so obviously music won. you felt it—the ache of missing your best friend who used to show up unannounced every other day. so you pulled back quietly, spending more afternoons at your grandma’s house, helping in the garden or baking in the kitchen like you did when you were a kid

one golden afternoon, your grandma set down her teacup and gave you that gentle, knowing look “Honey, what’s wrong with you and Steven? You two used to be inseparable. Now I barely see that boy dragging you around”

you hesitated, stirring your tea too long. the words tumbled out softly “He’s just busy with the drums and the bands… I’m really happy for him. I am. But I miss him. It feels like I’m always waiting these days”

“Don’t worry honey, everything will be alright” your grandma patted your hand, eyes soft. later that evening, she “casually” mentioned it to Mrs. Adler over the phone. the grandmas network worked fast

the next day, Steven showed up at your parents door just after dinner, his blond hair messy from rehearsal, a worried crease between his brows

“Hey” he said, stepping inside when you let him in “Can we talk? I’ve heard you’re sad lately. Is it about me?”

you sat on the couch, knees together like when you were twelve. you didn’t want to argue or make him feel guilty “No, I mean it’s okay, Stevie. You’re living your dream. I’m fine. Really”

but he wasn’t buying it. he sat close, knee bumping yours “No, you’re not. Grandma told me you’ve been looking like a sad puppy since I’m not around. Music’s been taking everything but you… you’re the one who’s always had my back” his bright eyes were dimmed with worry “I miss you too. A lot”

you shrugged, giving in with a small smile “Don’t worry about it, Stevie. It’s fin—”

“I do worry” he cut you off softly and suddenly grinned, that familiar unstoppable energy sparking back “Tomorrows night. I’m getting theater tickets—like the old days when we’d sneak in with whatever change we had. Just you and me. Deal?”

you smiled “Deal”

the next evening, you took extra care getting ready. you wore a soft sundress that swirled around your knees, your hair down the way Steven once said he liked it when you were younger, a touch of lip gloss and cardigan in case the theater got cold. when Steven knocked, his eyes widened the second you opened the door

“Woah…” he blinked, that messy blond hair falling into his face as he took you in “You look super pretty. Like, really pretty, stunning even”

you flushed, ducking your head “Thanks… You look nice too”

he offered his arm with a dramatic bow “Milady. Our chariot awaits” (it was his beat-up car but the gesture made you laugh)

the theater was a classic old cinema playing a comedy. the lights dimmed as you settled into your seats near the middle. Steven tried to behave. he really did. for the first ten minutes his hands stayed in his lap. but old habits dies hard. during a quiet scene, his fingers brushed yours on the armrest. then they stayed, lacing loosely together

halfway through the movie, he leaned close, lips near your ear, whispering jokes about the ridiculous plot “Okay, but if that guy trips one more time, I swear! No one is SO clumsy!”

you giggled, trying to shush him. a man in the row behind leaned forward “Hey, can you be quiet!”

Steven whispered “Sorry!” but two minutes later he was at it again, this time quieter “This is almost as bad as that time I tried teaching you drums and you hit yourself in the face with the stick. Remember?”

“Mhm!” you bit your lip to keep from laughing out loud

then his tone shifted. during a slower, romantic scene on screen, he turned his head, studying your face in the flickering light “Sometimes I forget how pretty you are” he whispered. his thumb brushed over your knuckles “Like… I see you every day in my head but then you show up looking like this and it hits me all over again”

your cheeks burned crimson. you squeezed his hand, heart fluttering “Steven…” you murmured shy

his arm eventually slid around your waist, pulling you gently against his side. he kept whispering little praises and jokes, earning another annoyed “Shh!” from behind but neither of you cared

as the credits started to roll on the first film, you and Steven got up and quickly stepped out into the cool night air, still buzzing from the movie. his arm was draped casually around your shoulders, your cheeks still felt warm from all his whispered jokes and that soft “sometimes I forget how pretty you are”. he was grinning like the sunshine kid you’d always known, messy blond hair catching the streetlight

“Best night in a long time” Steven said, squeezing you gently “We’re doing this more often”

you smiled shyly, leaning into him a little as you walked toward his car “I’d like that”

the drive to your house was short, windows down, radio playing low. Steven was humming along, one hand on the wheel, the other occasionally reaching over to brush your thigh. but as you turned onto your quiet residential street and decided to walk the last block for the fresh air cause you wished for more sweetness but of course —as always with Steven — trouble found you

a group of guys was hanging out near the corner, smoking and laughing loudly—Steven’s musician friends from the local scene. one of them, a tall guy with a leather jacket named Ricky, spotted Steven immediately

“Adler! There you are, man!” Ricky called but his tone wasn’t so friendly. two others stepped forward, one of them looking pissed

Steven slowed, instinctively pulling you a little behind him “Hi Ricky, hey guys, what’s up? Not a good time right now. We just came from the movie. Chill”

“Chill?” the angry one snapped, stepping right up to Steven “You think it’s cool that you told that chick at the gig last week I was a shitty guitarist? She was my fucking girlfriend, asshole! Now she won’t even look at me. And you had guts to flirt with her the whole night!”

Steven blinked, hands up “Whoa, whoa—I wasn’t flirting, man! She asked about the setlist and I was just being nice. I didn’t say anything bad about you, I swear! You’re a good guitarist when you’re not drunk off your ass”

that was the wrong thing to say. the guy shoved Steven hard in the chest “You little shit—!”

it escalated fast. Ricky tried to hold that guy back but another friend jumped in and suddenly fists were flying. Steven wasn’t one to back down he swung back. you yelped, pressing yourself against a parked car as the fight spilled onto the sidewalk

you watched in horror as two of them grabbed Steven. he was tough and quick, landing a few good hits but they were bigger and there were more of them. a punch connected with his face—split lip blooming red. another to his ribs. he grunted but kept fighting, protecting you by keeping himself between you and these guys

you couldn’t look. you turned away, hands over your mouth, heart hammering as the sounds of scuffling and curses filled the street “Stop! Please!”

it felt like forever but it was only a minute before the guys backed off, laughing “That’s enough for now, pretty boy”

Steven staggered, blood trickling from his split lip, bruises already forming on his cheek and jaw. his blond hair was disheveled, shirt torn at the collar “That’s all you have? Pathetic...”

in that same second when you heard it you couldn’t believe what he said

the guys turned around “What the fuck did you just said?!”

“Steven!” you grabbed his arm quickly “Run!”

he winced but started running cause he realized what he said “Oh shi—”

you ran as fast as you could to your parents house since the guys were just behind you. Steven still rushed on adrenaline so he kept up with you. your parents were already asleep upstairs—their bedroom light was off. you slipped in through the side door and locking the door behind you

outside, footsteps pounded closer. the guys shouting outside “Come out, Adler! We’re not fucking done!”

your hands shook but something fierce and protective surged through you—the same quiet girl now pushed to her limit. you ran to your dad’s closet, grabbed the shotgun he kept for home protection, loaded it with steady determination despite your racing heart and stepped onto the porch

the guys stopped short at the sight of you—small, usually shy you—aiming the gun their way

“Try to touch Steven and you won’t live to see another day” you said, voice low and deadly serious, even if your hands shook terrible

they stared, stunned. one laughed nervously but they all backed up, hands raised “You crazy bitch!… Whatever, man. Tell your boyfriend we’ll settle it later”

“You won’t. Just try to touch him and see what happens next” you added seriously and they quickly left talking insults under their noses

when it was over you lowered the gun, breathing hard, then rushed back inside, putting it away safely before returning to the bathroom where Steven was

he was leaning against the sink, watching the whole thing through the cracked door. his eyes were wide with awe and pride. you grabbed the first-aid kit with trembling hands and started cleaning him up—dabbing antiseptic on his split lip, gently pressing a cold cloth to the bruises on his face and ribs

“Hold still” you muttered, mad and scared and relieved all at once “You fucking idiot. What did you do to get mixed up with them? I told you you have to be careful with people. You’re always so careless—”

your heart was still racing, cheeks flushed from adrenaline. Steven caught your wrist gently, stopping you mid dab. even with the blood and bruises, that bright grin broke through, a little crooked from the swelling lip

“God… that was the hottest thing I’ve ever seen” he whispered, voice rough but full of wonder “My quiet girl pulling a shotgun on those assholes for me? I’m so proud of you. You’re tough as hell when you need to be”

you glared at him but your hands stayed gentle as you cleaned the cut “This isn’t funny, Steven! You got hurt. What would you do if I wasn’t there? You would just bleed out on the sidewalk waiting for someone to rescue you? You fucking dumbass”

he pulled you closer by the waist, ignoring the twinge in his side, his messy blond hair brushing your forehead “I know. I’m sorry. But damn… you defending me like that? It’s so hot. You’re always taking care of me and now you go full protector mode?” his thumb traced your flushed cheek “I don’t deserve you”

you sighed, anger softening as you leaned into him, heart still pounding from the fight, the adrenaline “Just… be more careful. For me”

“I will” he murmured, pressing a careful, tender kiss to your forehead despite his busted lip then he cupped your face with both hands and kissed your lips—slow at first but deepening quickly with all the gratitude. you melted into it, fingers curling into his torn shirt

the kiss grew heated fast. Steven pulled you flush against him, wincing a little at the pain in his ribs but not stopping “C’mere” he murmured against your mouth, walking you backward out of the bathroom and toward the living room couch. your parents bedroom was upstairs on the other side of the house—fortunately they were heavy sleepers but you both stayed as quiet as you could

you tumbled onto the old couch together, Steven on top, his messy blond hair falling into his eyes “I’m so grateful” he whispered between kisses, hands roaming “You always take care of me… food, waiting up, patching me up, defending me like a badass. I love you for it. I’ve loved you for years”

“I love you too Stevie” you breathed, shy but certain

his words made your chest tighten. clothes came off in a hurried, his torn shirt, your sundress sliding to the floor. Steven’s hands found your breasts immediately, cupping and squeezing them with open admiration “Fuck, your boobs… I’ve always wanted to touch them like this” he groaned softly, kissing and nipping at them with chaotic hunger, sucking marks into the soft skin while you tried to quiet your whimpers

you were nervous— this was your first time with him and you didn’t want to fuck this up. Steven sensed it, slowing just enough to kiss you sweetly, reassuringly “I’ve got you”

Steven kicked off his jeans and boxers. his cock wasn’t the biggest—average length but nice and thick enough, surrounded by a wild patch of dark blond pubic hair that matched the messy hair on his head. he was already hard, tip glistening. he noticed you looking and gave you that sunny crooked grin. he knew exactly how to use what he had

you blushed hard, arching into his touch as his hand trailed down your belly, trying to stay quiet. his hand slid between your legs, finding you already wet. when his fingers brushed your smooth, shaved skin, he let out a soft, delighted laugh

“Fuck, you’re shaved? So smooth and adorable…” his fingers softly went through your folds “Like silk. So pretty down here” he fingered you for a second before he decided he can’t hold it anymore and slid up his dick through your wet entrance

you gasped at the stretch, clinging to his shoulders. he ran his fingers over the bare skin reverently before gripping your hips and starting to move—chaotic, fast and a little too rough just like his personality. his hips snapped forward in quick, eager strokes, the couch creaking faintly beneath you

you bit your lip hard to stay quiet but moans slipped out anyway “S-Steven… we were supposed to be—a-ah!— friends!”

he laughed breathlessly against your neck, the sound bright even now, and fucked you even faster, pounding into you with that energetic rhythm that left you trembling

“Best friends” he corrected teasingly between thrusts, giving you cute, messy kisses to your lips, your jaw, your breasts “But I can’t stop now… you feel too good. You took care of me all these years… let me take care of you like this”

one hand stayed on your boob, playing with your nipple while the other squeazed your hip. he was rough but loving—nipping at your skin, whispering praises about how perfect you felt, how pretty you looked all flushed and spread out for him. he kept grinding against you on every deep thrust, savoring the sensation

your quiet gasps and his muffled groans filled the living room. you came first, clenching around him hard and Steven followed right after—pulling out with a desperate sound and spilling hot across your belly in messy pulses, blond hair sticking to his sweaty forehead

he collapsed half on top of you, careful not to crush you, pressing soft, grateful kisses all over your face “Holy shit… that was amazing!” he whispered, already reaching for his discarded shirt to gently clean your stomach “Are you okay? Nothing hurts?”

you shook your head and smiled “Everything is okay Stevie, it was so... intense but good” you layed there catching your breath, body buzzing

“Okay, okay. So… how’s my performance?” he whispered, voice full of playful pride, like he’d just finished a killer drum solo instead of fucking his best friend on her parents couch

you stared at him for a second, flushed and dazed, then let out a soft, disbelieving laugh “You’re so dumb…” you shook your head, still catching your breath “Uh… 9?”

Steven barked out a loud laugh before quickly muffling it against your shoulder, his body shaking with it “Only a 9?! I’m wounded! I’ll have to practice more. A lot more! Probably with my hand...” he smiled and kissed you messily, still chuckling

he was terrible at aftercare

Steven tried — he really did — grabbing his crumpled shirt again and wiping you between your thighs in clumsy strokes, then attempting to pull the throw blanket over both of you but mostly just tangling it around your legs. he planted random cute kisses on your collarbone and cheek and kept shifting around restlessly, too wired with energy to settle properly

it was so weird… but you liked it. the chaos was pure Steven but you were used to it

but the worry crept back in fast. for a second you forgot about the bruises on his ribs and jaw that were darkening and the cut on his lip had started bleeding again from all the kissing and grinning. he’d been beaten up barely an hour ago

“Stay here” you whispered, slipping out from under him. you padded quietly to the kitchen, grabbing ice packs from the freezer, glass of water and some Advil from the cabinet. when you came back, Steven was sprawled on the couch like he owned it, watching you with a lazy, satisfied smile

you gently pressed an ice pack to his cheek and another to his ribs, making him hiss “You’re such an idiot” you muttered, still flushed from everything “Here” you handed him the pills and a glass of water

Steven swallowed them obediently, then caught your wrist and tugged you back down beside him “Your pussy is a literal cure for everything” he declared dramatically, pulling you against his chest “I feel like I haven’t even been beaten up! Real magic”

you groaned, burying your face in his neck, laughing embarrassed “That is so stupid, Steven. You’re going to be sore as hell tomorrow...”

“Worth it” he said cheerfully, nuzzling your hair and wrapping his arms around you despite the winces. his hand lazily stroked your back while the other kept the ice pack in place “Best night ever. Movie, fight, shotgun badass girlfriend, couch sex… 9 out of 10. We’ll get it to 11 next time”

you rolled your eyes but couldn’t stop smiling, pressing a careful kiss near his bruised jaw. even beat up and chaotic, he was still your ray of sunshine — and now something so much more but nothing certain yet. after few minutes you exhausted fell asleep on him

in the morning you were curled against Steven’s side on the couch, the throw blanket barely covering the two of you. his arm was slung possessively around your waist, his messy blond hair tickling your cheek and his steady breathing told you he was still asleep

the sound of footsteps on the stairs jolted you awake

your mom stepped into the living room, humming softly as she headed for the kitchen to start breakfast and froze midstep

there you were

her daughter

naked

tangled up with a boy on her couch

the only good thing is that she knows this boy really well

“Oh my God—” you sat up so fast you nearly fell off the cushions, yanking the blanket up to your chin. your face burned crimson “Mom! Don’t look! I— We— It’s not what you think!— I mean it is, but—”

Steven stirred beside you, blinking sleepily and confused

instead of panic, his face split into a bright, sunshine grin the second he saw your mom. he stretched lazily, not even bothering to fully cover himself with the blanket, his bruises and split lip on full display

“Morning, ma’am!” he said cheerfully, voice still raspy from sleep “Smells like you’re making breakfast? I’m starving”

your mom stood there for a beat, taking in the scene: her daughter flushed and dying of embarrassment, Steven looking perfectly content and happy as ever and the very obvious evidence of what had happened on her couch the night before

a small, knowing smile tugged at her lips. she’d known Steven since he was a wild little blond boy running around with you at the grandmas houses. she’d always kinda suspected this day would come

“Well” she said, clearing her throat but sounding more amused than angry “I suppose it was only a matter of time with you two” she turned toward the kitchen “Pancakes sound good? And Steven, dear, you might want to put some pants on before my husband comes down here”

Steven laughed brightly and reached for his jeans on the floor “Yes ma’am. Pancakes sound amazing. Thank you!”

you groaned loudly, hiding your burning face in your hands “Mom, please. This is so embarrassing…”

your mom chuckled as she cracked eggs into a bowl “I’m happy for you two, honey. Really. Steven’s been part of this family for years”

she glanced over her shoulder at him as he tugged his shirt on and wincing at the bruises “Though I am very worried about why Stevie looks like he went ten rounds with a truck. What on earth happened to you, young man?”

Steven shrugged with a grin, slipping an arm around your shoulders even as you tried to shrink into the blanket “Just some guys from the music scene being idiots. Nothing I couldn’t handle. Your daughter took care of the rest though — she was incredible”

your mom raised an eyebrow but didn’t push too hard “We’ll talk about that later. Get dressed, both of you. Breakfast in ten”

when she finally focused on making breakfast you whispered to Steven “This is so embarrassing oh god…” that made him kiss your forehead and whisper

“It’s better than yelling anyway. And for the record this pink blush suits you” and that made you hide your face in his neck

a little while later Steven happily dug into the pancakes chatting with your mom like it was any other Sunday morning. you sat beside him, quiet and still mortified, pushing food around your plate while he kept stealing glances at you with loving eyes

after breakfast, Steven kissed your cheek and then your lips when your mom wasn’t looking and sighed “I gotta head out to band practice. But I’ll call you later, okay? Last night was… best night ever I mean it” he smiled, then winced because of the split lip

you walked him to the door. as soon as his beat-up car pulled away, you turned back toward the kitchen where your mom was waiting with a gentle but curious look

you couldn’t do it. not right now

“I’m… going to Grandma’s” you mumbled, already heading for the stairs to change “Love you, Mom. Thanks for breakfast”

your mom just smiled softly “Tell her I said hi. And be careful, honey”

you escaped out the door before she could ask any more questions about the very obvious shift in your friendship with Steven

at your grandma’s house, you found her in the garden. she took one look at your flushed face and knew

“Come sit, sweetheart” she said warmly, patting the bench beside her “I have a feeling somethings changed, am I right?”

“Somethings like that grandma” you buried your face in her shoulder, groaning again

you spent the day helping your grandma in the garden and keeping yourself busy even though the soreness of your last nights closeness with Steven was still here, reminding you of it with every step

that night, the phone rang just after dinner. you were helping your grandma with the dishes when she handed you the receiver with a knowing little smile

“It’s Steven, dear”

you took it, heart doing that familiar flip “Hello?”

“Baby!” Steven’s voice came through loud and bright but the words were slurry. you could hear music and laughter in the background — probably some after-party “Missed you all day! Like… a lot. You’re the best thing ever that happened to me you know that? I told the guys about my badass girlfriend with the shotgun and they didn’t believe me but—!”

“Steven” you cut in softly, frowning “Are you drunk?”

there was a pause, then a sheepish laugh “Maybe a little? Just celebrating. The band sounded killer today. But mostly celebrating you. Us. Last night was—”

you sighed, leaning against the wall “I’m glad you had fun with the band but… you got beaten up yesterday and now you’re out drinking? I was really worried about you. Can we just meet tomorrow instead? When you’re… sober?”

the line went quiet for a second. even tipsy, Steven caught the gentle disappointment in your voice “Yeah… yeah, okay. Tomorrow. I’ll come by your place”

“Get home safe tonight” you added, softer “Please”

“I will. Don’t worry about me” and he hang up

the next afternoon, Steven showed up on your porch right on time. his wild blond hair was washed and combed back as best as he could manage.he wore a clean button-up shirt tucked into his jeans and in his hands was a small, bouquet of daisies, a few sunflowers and pink roses wrapped in brown paper with a crooked ribbon. you could tell he’d spent his last bit of money on them

he stopped a couple steps away from the porch swing where you were sitting, shifting his weight like he was trying to contain an entire storm inside himself

“Hey…” his voice was quieter than usual. he cleared his throat and tried again “These are, uh… for you. They made me think of you — bright and pretty”

you took the flowers, smiling softly “They’re beautiful, Steven. Thank you”

he sat down beside you on the swing. for a long moment he just looked at you, his bright eyes unusually serious. you could see how hard he was trying to hold back his usual chaotic energy — fists clenched lightly on his thighs, jaw tight, like he was physically restraining himself from jumping up or talking a mile a minute

“I’ve been thinking about this since last night” he started, voice low and a little rough “When you asked me to come sober… it hit me. I don’t want to keep worrying you. Not anymore” he swallowed hard “You’ve been my best friend since we were twelve. Since I saw you at my grandma’s living room and asked if you wanted to be friends on the spot. And you said yes. You’ve always said yes — even when I was small and stupid and working too late, even when I brought home bruises, even when I… when we kissed by accident at that river and pretended it was nothing”

Steven let out a shaky breath, running a hand through his hair and messing it up again “Shit, I’m not good at this. I keep wanting to make jokes or tell you about the new drum fill I learned but… that’s not what this is about” he turned toward you fully, taking both your hands in his. his palms were warm and a little clammy from nerves

“I love you” he said, sincere and unsteady “Not just best friend love. I love the way you care about me when I forget to care about myself. I love how you look out for me. I love how you went full badass with that shotgun for me. I love how you blush when I say something stupid and how you feel and— fuck, I’m messing this up” he laughed nervously, cheeks flushing “What I mean is… you’re everything to me. You’ve taken care of me my whole life. Let me take care of you too”

he squeezed your hands tighter “Will you be my girlfriend? Like… officially. No more ‘just friends’ after what we did on that couch. I want to be the guy who deserves you. I’ll try harder — I swear. Less drinking, less stupid fights. Because you’re the best thing in my life and I… I just can’t lose you”

his voice cracked a little on the last words. the effort of holding back his usual sunshine chaos made him look so vulnerable, so young, despite the bruises on his face

you didn’t say anything right away. instead, you leaned in and kissed him — slow, tender and full of all the years between you. Steven melted into it instantly, one hand coming up to cup your cheek, the other staying laced with yours. when you pulled back, you wrapped your arms around him in a gentle hug, careful not to press on his injured ribs

“Yes” you whispered against his neck “I’ll be your girlfriend, Steven Adler”

he let out a soft, relieved sound — half laugh, half sigh — and hugged you back as tightly as his bruises would allow “Thank God” he murmured, pressing kisses to your temple, your cheek, the corner of your mouth “I love you. I really, really love you”