(It's the kind of reaction Eddie would expect from Bill. A thoughtful reaction; one that he immerses himself in entirely. Eddie stands by, hands collected and knotting together anxiously at what Bill might say or do. What he might think.

But then Eddie's being hugged, a small sound escaping him, and his thin arms loop tightly around his best friend, his brother, and he buries his face into Bill's neck.)

I...completely forgot about all you guys.

(He confesses this very quietly, shamefully, as if Bill would actually blame him (he knows he won't). He leans back, staring up at Bill with large, wet eyes.)

I forgot about damn near everything, Bill.

(He slowly lets go of him, and glances at the wall.)

...I don't want to ever again. None of it. Even the bad.

(His eyes linger on the reminder for himself and he pinches his mouth into a thin line.)

I don't care either. I'm keeping you guys here no matter what it takes. (It's a bold declaration from Eddie Kaspbrak, Eddie who was never the hero or the leader. But it was a decision he had felt fiercely about since remembering, that if his friends would ever show up, he'd fight the universe itself to keep them there. Nothing inspired bravery in him faster than his own loyalty. Which was a bit of his downfall, but no matter. If Eddie was worth anything at all, he was worth his friends.)