quicklog: steph/eddie -- the arcade
[The noise in the arcade was a good distraction, but Eddie couldn't get any air. The arcade got stuffy, especially in the warmer months, and it couldn't be helped. You could crank the AC in there and it would still feel like there wasn't quite enough oxygen to live off of. So, while a game of something Japanese and complicated was probably a good idea, Eddie opened the back door of his office and stepped out into the alleyway. This was the most hidden paradise of hidden paradises for outcasts and nerds who worked for Eddie. The dumpster was far enough away that they could build a tiny minigolf course out of junk they found at garage sales and there was even a bamboo tiki bar that Eddie brought from his old cabin so some one of the kids could play "bartender" with sodas and snacks.
But, this was the middle of the afternoon and the kids were all working inside. And Eddie? Eddie had lit up a cigarette and was currently working on his putt-putt game. He set down a green ball, lined up his shot and swung. Right then, he heard Stephanie's voice and he turned, opening the back door so he could shout at her.]
Out here! [He waved his fingers through the door and then continued golfing, not bothering to put the cigarette out. She'd smell the smoke on him, anyway.] I called Cat. We're off to see Holly pretty soon. [He said once she stepped out. Eddie may not have been physically strong, but he was very good at folding up his emotions like origami if they weren't useful to him. Being angry and sad and guilty about Holly? Not useful.]