[ It's an easy jab, but hey it's impossible to pass up as he smirked over at Jason for a few moments before he gave a little press of his lips at that next question.]
You mentioned it a few times last night.
I just wanted to say that I...should have treated you better. Reach out more. Danced with you at one.
(Sorry for the delay, my brain took a swerve. XD )
You know, I actually was doing the whole detective shit show when this happened.
[He gestured to his mottled torso, huffing a little before he settled back to sip at his coffee. He'd been working undercover, embedding himself into a gang that was actively recruiting. He'd been expecting to get hazed and he hadn't been disappointed, but two weeks in and someone had started to get twitchy about the newbies.
The Bat had hit their weapons run and Jason had barely managed to drag out a couple of the younger greenhorns before he'd gotten snared with the rest. Jason had been lucky. The others, not so much. Though, nearly two months of work getting thrown out the window all because Bruce couldn't just fucking trust him had been a bitter pill to swallow.
Dick's words snapped him out of his brewing foul mood and he arched a surprised brow. And if his cheeks colored just a little, well...so fucking what?]
Nah, you were fine. I was the annoying little shit head that Bruce had scooped up out of the gutter and thrown at you. I would have hated me, too.
[He gave his boyfriend a tired smile, wrapping his towel around his waist before he was moving over to the closed toilet. He hissed a little when he sat down, the burns that seemed to trace the outline of his armor against his skin shifting uncomfortably.]
I don't blame you. Not even a little. But I also knew how bad it looked wasn't nearly as bad as it actually was. So, shower first. Now you can fuss all you like. But first, can I have a kiss?
[For being one of the most feared crime bosses in Gotham, Jason could pull off a fair decent set of puppy dog eyes.]
[He says with a sweet smile and bends down to kiss Jason, firmly and thoroughly.]
Now, you drink this while I get to work.
[A cup of hot tea is passed to Jason as Ed kneels down in front of him and starts to fuss and take care of the wounds, his hands working methodically yet gently.]
[He accepted both the cup and the kiss with a tired smile, sipping carefully at the former. His lip was split enough that the heat stung, but it soothed more than it aggravated and Jason let out a pleased hum.]
Perfect. You know me so well, babe. Thank yo-Oh! Ouch..
[The burn wasn't terrible, but it would probably add to his scars in a few places. Mostly, he was just annoyed that wearing his armor for the next several days was going to be miserable.]
Remind me to look into fireproofing when I'm a little less likely to pass out on the toilet.
[It had been less that Dick had sounded more coherent than he'd actually been, and more that Jason had let himself actually hear the words. Because there was an honesty that came with an addled state, be that drunkenness or concussion. And Dick had looked up at him with those fucking stupidly pretty blue eyes and he'd touched his face and...
The bagel was ash in his mouth and Jason frowned as he wrapped it back up in it's fancy parchment paper.]
Don't worry 'bout it. Just glad you're okay. Try to eat that. If you're gunna puke, do it somewhere easy to clean up. I've got some shit to do, so just... Lock up when you feel better, alright?
[He was lying. He'd fully intended on coming back, eating breakfast, and then trying to get Dick back into bed to sleep for a few more hours. But if Dick was going to regret the words from last night, Jason didn't want to be here when he remembered them.
There was always something to do in the Bowery.]
If you need anything, give me a call. Try to get some more sleep.
sorry this took so long! work is so busy this week
[ Dick still feels like he's way too slow, mentally and physically, frustratingly so. Technically it's probably a very slight difference from his baseline, but for someone like him, used to pushing himself so hard, to strive for the absolute limits of what he can tangibly achieve, even a marginal hindrance is a big deal. Worse, he knows that if he pushes it right now he'd be a mess, and at least he doesn't have an immediate incentive to try to put the suit back on, to get back out there, but getting through to Jason, not letting this moment go? That feels as important as anything could be.
He's aware that he's missed moments before. Too many. Times when he should have reached out and couldn't, because he felt guilty. Because he thought that he'd just be angrily slapped away. Because he was angry, too emotional to see things clearly when he really should have been the one capable of a rational view. ]
Jay, wait— [ He reaches, instinctively, for Jason's arm, or his hand, whatever happens to be close enough. ] Please.
[ He couldn't physically stop Jason from leaving even if he wanted to. It's not like that, he's not making demands. He's asking. ]
No worries ^_^ My brain also took a few days to reset.
When was the last time someone asked him for anything without just demanding it?
It was that more than the hand on his arm that made him stop, muscles tense under Dick's touch. He didn't pull away, though. He thought about it. It would have been easy, even if Dick wasn't concussed and recovering from what looked like a rather impressive beat down.
It was still weird, the whole 'taller' thing.
Huffing out a small, joyless laugh, he turned and let that grip on his arm guide him back to the table.]
Seriously, it's not a big deal. Just drop it. Eat your breakfast, Goldie.
[ Jason's determined not to let anything more than that moment of vulnerability slip, but at least he stays, and it relaxes most of the tension out of his shoulders. But he doesn't let go either, only belatedly realizing that himself, that he still has his hand on Jason's arm, thumb brushing instinctively against his skin, a gentle gesture of affection that just feels right. He could blame it on still being out of it, if Jason were to object to it.
He's not dropping it. He can't, and he's pretty sure that he shouldn't. In the past it's been a lot easier to let go, or so he thought, and lately that's been weighing on his mind. That he shouldn't have let Jason drift away from him like that, no matter how tough it was to keep him close. The apparent difference between letting Jason have his space and letting him think that everyone was giving up on him was never clear enough, was it?
Dick doesn't have much of an appetite, even though Jason's right, he should eat. ]
[The thing about vulnerability was that people used it. Used it to manipulate him, to use him, to betray him. He'd learned that being vulnerable resulted in pain at far too early of an age and it was a lesson that his life hadn't let him forget.
But for as well as the lesson had been beaten in to him -literally and figuratively- he was still unable to completely turn off his emotions. He'd never been able to and it had caused more than one fight between himself and Bruce. Garzonas hadn't been the first fight, but his death had been the first real accusation. It had hurt almost as much as being stripped of Robin and his desperate attempt to find some kind of connection to anyone had ended in Sheila Haywood using his vulnerability to earn herself Joker's good graces.
Later, the Pit had stripped away what little control he did have, so when Talia started to tell him all about how he'd never been mourned and how he'd been so easily replaced, the anger had just festered. Time and space had helped ease some of her skillful manipulations, but it was still so very hard to let himself just be.
But he'd reached out to Dick. He'd taken that first tentative step forward, showed his throat in a proverbial surrender to the alpha. He had to trust him, right? More importantly, he wanted to trust him.
He didn't pull his arm away from that gentle touch as he sat back down, though he kept his gaze firmly on his hastily re-wrapped bagel.]
....you said you missed me. Last night, when I was wrapping your ribs. You said that you were glad I was here because you missed me.
[His voice was small, but thick with emotion and the younger man cleared his throat and frowned down at his table, but he let Dick keep his arm.]
Trust me, Doc. I'm doing this all proper like -because- it's you. Otherwise it would have literally been 'Scoop out half, throw in a scoop of flour and roughly the same amount of warm water, then stir'. Pretty sure your science degrees would have strangled me during my next session.
But yeah, last step is to add about 50g of -warm- water. Not hot. Don't kill my yeast. Stir it up, recap it loosely and I'll bring you a loaf of bread with my next session.
You know what, Hood. I am not going to argue that. You get a point for the thought.
Understood, warm, not hot. I'm taking care of it, and sure. I won't say no to bread.
It always worked when I was younger, I would bet it would work here too. I have some I can trade you for the bread if you are low when you return. I was being hyperbolic when I said I don't cook. It is simply not much. Bay leaves are useful in soups.
[ The man will live on pizza rolls and spaghetti O's if allowed but having smoked half his life his sense of taste is kinda wrecked. ]
Arsenal says I'm not allowed to trade food with you, but I think I have some bay leaves in my spice rack. I'll give it a shot. Thanks for the heads up, I never would have thought to try that.
Thank you. I mean it. I know it sounds stupid, but I've kept that thing alive for the last year.
Arsenal is not allowed to judge me while still seeing Strange as a therapist. Those are the rules.
Why do I feel like I am arguing with children?
Perhaps you do, I did not look that close. Everything is put back and I relocked the door. Also, if you're that interested in the truck, you can see it on your next appointment. So long as you do not get shot or nearly die this time. Something to work towards.
Don't mention it. Seriously, don't tell anyone. However, you are welcome, it would be a shame to kill your edible science experiment.
[ He also purposely tipped every picture on his way out by 5 degrees just to see if Red Hood and Arsenal notice. ]
[He'd be mad at himself later for the wave of reassurance that came from seeing Bruce's name light up on his screen. He answered halfway through the first ring, pressing it to his ear and, for just a moment, he let himself feel relieved at the sound of Bruce's voice.]
Y-yeah. I'm not going anywhere. I'm...
[There was a rumbling sound in the background of the call and Jason made a sound that he'd be embarrassed about later.]
Fuck... dad, please...
switching to prose, hope that's ok! easier for my to write it
The sound of Jason's voice, distressed and whispering the one word Bruce was positive he'd never say if he wasn't scared out of his mind, had Bruce clawing at the wheel of the Batmobile as he nearly mowed down anyone and anything in his way. The streets were crowded, but he was going to get there in time. He wasn't going to let Jason die again.
"I'm coming," he said, voice low and as warm as he could manage. The emotion in him was undeniable, the clench in his throat when he swallowed. "Just stay with me, Jason."
There was another sound of crumbling building and Jason's breath did something complicated and probably unhealthy, but he didn't panic. He pressed the phone closer to his ear and wedged himself in tighter against the wall at his back. It was an exterior wall, thicker and reinforced with brick facings and so far it hadn't shown any sign of coming down.
"I'm here. I'm...I'm here. I heard an explosion on the south side of the building, but it was muffled. Someone probably hit the building from the outside." Talking about it like it was a case was helping, the edge of panic in his voice calming a little. "Just bought this building, too. Damn-IT! Fuck! Shitshitshit...please, I can't do this again. I can't...dad. Dad, please..."
The Batmobile's tires would need replacing (again) after tonight, since Bruce took every curve like he was in Tokyo Drift. Dodging an endless slough of traffic and pedestrians and garbage, finally Bruce decided to eject himself from the Batmobile. He could get there faster flying over the rooftops. So when he spoke, he was a little out of breath and the wind whipped into his voice.
"I'm ten blocks east of your position," he confirmed. He was a little further than that, but Jason didn't need to know. Bruce would make up the time if it killed him. "Talk to me about the building. What did you want with it?"
Between emergency services trying to deal with the gas and water main blowouts caused by the collapse and the general disrepair that the city liked to keep Jason's stretch of territory, it wasn't surprising when Jason heard that low voice sounding a little out of breath. He couldn't hear the commotion outside through the rubble, but he could imagine it very clearly.
In any other circumstance, Jason would be pissed that Bruce was in the Bowery. He'd be spitting curses and probably a few bullets to keep his secrets safe from the man who would no doubt judge them. Tonight, however, the building shifted under his feet and Jason made a high pitched sound that should have been impossible for such a broad chest.
"I-fuck! Sorry. Things are crumbling over head and I don't know how much longer I'm going to have signal. Northeast wall, ground level. So far the exterior wall is holding up, but it's starting to buckle a little. Look for the baby boxes. I was putting them in when all this went down.
Clinic. I was going to turn it into a clinic. The one I had on this side got hit a few months ago. People-shitshitshit. People need somewhere to go and the city won't fund anything past the Alley..."
"I've got your position locked in on my radar," Bruce confirmed. It was as close to saying don't worry, trust me as he'd get. Even in the worst of his panics, Bruce had a hard time voicing emotion, especially where Jason is concerned. "Eight blocks, turning north."
As Bruce ran and jumped and shot his grapple gun, his heart raced. If he failed Jason a second time...
No. He wouldn't allow himself to think of that. He would get there in time. He would save Jason. He would kill himself if it meant saving his wayward son.
"A clinic is much needed there. I can see that it gets the proper attention." I.e. funding from Bruce Wayne's bank account. "That should help with the rebuilding. We can do a fundraiser. I know how much you love dressing up for those." A joke. Keep the mood light. "Six blocks. Jason? Breathe. Nice and slow."
So Bruce would kill himself to save Jason, kill Jason to save Joker...so who was the next person in that line? Who's death would need to be threatened for the clown to finally get what he deserved?
Not that Jason was thinking about Joker at the moment. Or even about the scar on his throat that was his daily reminder of his ill-fated homecoming. He was thinking about how he'd been able to stand in his little pocket of safety at the start of the phone call, but now he was crouching, one hand reaching up as if to brace the tons of concrete and wood that was threatening to collapse on him. He was thinking about the cadence of Bruce's breathing and how soothing it was in his ear.
How he'd spent so many restless nights with his ear pressed against that massive chest to listen to that very cadence. How it would lull him to sleep like no other sound could. His breathing slowed a little, the little sounds of distress ebbing as he let himself listen to that breath now.
"You get me outta this and I'll let you dress me in whatever you want to dress me in." There was a low groan of straining metal overhead and Jason made a low, desperate sound...but when he spoke again, his voice was thick with emotion.
"If you don't make it, it's okay. It's okay. I don't blame you.
"Jason, listen to me right now," Bruce said, his voice a low rumble, calm but full of importance. "I'm five blocks and closing. I will get you out of there."
The promise of dressing Jason in whatever he wanted, which normally would have been high on his list of priorities, was reduced to background noise as he pushed himself beyond his usual physical limitations, flying across the skylines and getting closer with every second. He still feared it might be too late, but he'd do whatever it took. He would not lose Jason again.
"Four blocks," he relayed, breath shallow. Then a moment later, "Three," and again, "Two. I see the building." And it looked bad but he wasn't going to admit just how bad. He held it back as he descended towards the rubble. "I see where you're trapped. Jason? I'm coming. Make some noise for me."
"No, dad...it's okay. It is. It wasn't your fault. It isn't-" His voice cut off with a startled yelp and more sounds of falling rubble. Bruce might actually be able to see the cave in from where he was grappling in, the middle of the pile of debris slowly sinking into the levels below.
It was going to collapse.
It was going to crush him.
"Dad! Dad, I'm here!" He pounded on the wall that had slowly been turning from savior to tombstone. If he'd been just five feet away from the corner, he would have been able to rip out one of the freshly installed boxes, but that escape had closed off before he'd even been able to make the call. "I'm here! Over he-"
The rubble shifted and the line disconnected. He was alone. It was dark and the air tasted like concrete dust and dirt and he could almost feel the squelch of mud under his fist as he drove it again and again into the concrete of his burial plot the wall.
From inside the crush of the building, Jason let out a terrified scream.
"Good boy," Bruce said, swallowing down the fear and replacing it with action. "Good boy, keep talking." He knew what was needed. He had done this before. Had saved countless people from these exact situations. It was just brick and concrete and rubble. It was nothing a man with Bruce's strength couldn't lift away.
He would get to Jason. He would get to Jason. He would--
The crash of rubble and the line disconnecting had Bruce letting go of the grapple before he'd pulled it out of the nearby rooftop, just letting the line dangle as he fell to the ground and landed hard on heavy-booted feet some distance from Jason. He clawed his way through the mess of debris, listening in panicked silence for Jason's voice below. He didn't hear anything. The panic swelled as he started grabbing bricks and hauling them away, his breath heavy as he struggled to clear a safe path to what was trapped beneath.
He was alone. It was dark and damp earth was piled high on top of him and he was alone. His throat hurt from screaming, Bruce's and Dick's names deafening in the confined space, the faux padding of his coffin doing nothing to stop the sound from reverberating back against his ears.
He was dead. He was dead and buried and alone and he was going to die again. He was going to run out of air, run out of time and space and-
A twisting groan of metal from overhead snapped him out of his flashback, doing nothing to ease his panic but at least he could remember that he wasn't in his coffin. He wasn't in a suit that had been cut down the back to make it easier to dress him. He wasn't caked in makeup to hide the bruising that had turned black under his skin. He wasn't-
Something cascaded by his head and he screamed again, scrambling desperately at the wall. He ripped away drywall and splinters embedded themselves in his fingers as he broke away framing. He didn't feel the pain. Couldn't though the panic that fogged his existence. He couldn't feel the pain then, either, but he was trying hard to not let his mind fall back into itself again.
Something shifted and a sharp pain lanced through his leg as the ceiling finally made contact with his body....but then the wall was ripping away from the outside instead of just the inside and Jason reached out with bloody hands to catch familiar gauntlets.
Two massive hands punched through concrete and brick and rebar and drywall, the material of his nearly unscratchable gauntlets riddled with scrapes and tears. But through the chaos of detritus and rubble, there was a crack of light that shown through, snapping the darkness in half and replacing it with the grateful face of a father who would have done anything for this particular son.
Once Bruce saw him, heard him, touched him, he knew he could get through this. They would both make it out alive.
"Easy," Bruce hummed, his voice a low balm to soothe Jason's obvious panic. "Easy, son, I'm right here." In any other situation, Bruce may have used the fear advantage to add in something like Daddy's here, but he was altogether too horrified by what he was seeing to focus on anything but saving Jason. That came first, his desires always last. "Give me your hands. That's it." Bruce calmly walked Jason through it, shouldering the weight of the rubble and easing it aside so he could grip Jason's arms firmly and haul him up into the light. "Watch your head," he added, cradling it on Jason's way up and out and then not giving a shit about what it looked like or if Jason might fight, he pulled Jason into him and held him tight. The black shadow of his cape, filthy from the rubble, whipped around them and covered them like a blanket. "I've got you," he promised. "I've got you."
Hands closed around his arms and Jason sobbed in relief as he let himself be pulled from the hole that the two of them had created in the wall. He was filthy, caked in blood from numerous cuts and scrapes from falling debris, the red turned to cement by plaster and concrete dust. His leg looked...not like a leg anymore, to be honest, but Jason didn't care.
At that moment, he couldn't care about anything other then wrapping his arms around his father's bulk and sobbing into his shoulder.
"You came for me. Y-you-" His words didn't make much sense, really, panic babbles of 'I thought you weren't gunna make it' and 'Wanna go home's falling out of his lips.
It wasn't easy or as graceful as he'd have liked, but Bruce managed to get Jason into his arms and started walking. "Hold onto me," he demanded. "I'll get you home." He found the dangling line from his grapple and snapped it back into its holster, listening to the familiar zip of heavy duty wires whizz into the machine. When it was all wound back how it should be, he shot it at a nearby building and hefted Jason up into the skies with him.
Bruce didn't go to Jason's safe houses. He knew a few of them (not all), but when Jason said 'home', Bruce was taking it seriously. His true home. Where he belonged, if Bruce had it his way.
They flew through the sky, over buildings and beyond the city limits until Bruce could get them into the Batmobile where he'd left it to speed them home. He didn't bother putting Jason into his own seat; just climbed into the driver's side with Jason still clinging to him like a child. And he drove all the way to the Manor that way and hefted Jason out of the car with him once they arrived, making his way to the med bay.
"Your leg needs looking at," he explained quietly. "I'm going to have to sit you down for that. All right?"
He hadn't argued. Bruce reconnected his grapple line and Jason found enough strength to reach back into the protection of the cape, his hands finding the build in grips in the suit. They were designed for smaller hands, for Robins who'd lost their own lines, but Jason still clung to them easily, face still buried against the nomex of the cowl.
The car ride jostled him enough to register that they probably weren't going to one of his own safe houses in the city, but he didn't argue. He'd fight later, when fear and exhaustion wasn't pulling at every cell in him, mingling with pain until it was all he could do to shift himself so that Bruce could still see to drive.
He was much, much bigger than he used to be when he'd ride in Bruce's lap. Not that he felt it. Not that he ever felt it when Bruce could still haul him around like the child he used to be.
He lost time in the car, his face tucked securely against Bruce's neck, so when the cockpit slid open and Bruce picked him up like he didn't weigh almost as much as Bruce himself, Jason only made a small, surprised sound when he blinked open his eyes and looked around at the cave.
"I...Yeah. Yeah, I'm okay." He shifted to help Bruce settle him on the hospital style bed, laying back so he could breath through the wave of pain that pulsed through him. It was the first time he'd really felt his leg and he found himself wishing for the calm quiet of the drive once more. "Fuck, it's mangled, isn't it? I...wasn't expecting you to bring me here..."
Bruce said nothing about bringing Jason 'home', exactly where he'd asked if it was up to Bruce, focusing instead on pulling his cowl down so it hung around his neck. Gloves came next so his hands were free and he could wash up and sanitize them. The last thing they needed was Jason's leg getting infected.
When he returned to the table, he cut open Jason's pantleg and frowned down at the damage. It was in bad shape. He'd get X-rays to confirm, but as he prodded around at it, he was pretty sure it was going to need to be snapped back into place and Jason would likely be limping one-legged for a few months until it healed properly. The thought did occur to Bruce that maybe Jason would stay here, let Bruce take care of him...
But he couldn't allow himself to think that was a guarantee. Jason's moods were mercurial at best.
"I'm going to give you something for the pain," he said finally after a thorough investigation. "And then I'll take some x-rays and we'll go from there." He forced himself to look at Jason, directly in his eyes, still seeing the shimmer of tears in them but Jason certainly looked better now that he was out of the claustrophobic deluge. "All right?"
He wasn't really expecting an answer. Bruce wasn't the most talkative creature in existence to begin with and adding in the stress and emergency of the night and Jason knew better then to think he was going to get an actual conversation out of the man.
It was something that used to chafe Dick to no end, but Jason had understood it. Even back in his booty shorts and pixie boots days. Instead, he let himself rest back against the bed, his body starting to communicate with him exactly how badly he was hurt. His hands were on fire, shards of wood and concrete debris still embedded in his fingers. His lungs ached from how much dust he'd inhaled. He was...He was in bad shape.
But he was alive.
He was alive because Bruce had come for him.
He reached up with one blood covered hand, knowing that Bruce wouldn't care that he left streaks on his face. "You saved me. You came for me. I...I was as good as dead in that building." His fingers trailed over the man's features, a slight tremble in them before all at once he was curling his fingers in the neck of the suit and using it to haul the broad man down.
The kiss was light, almost shy, but Jason initiated it.
"Knock me out. I'll move less and you'll be able to do a better job without me screaming loud enough to wake Alfred."
Leave it to Jason to do the one thing that Bruce least expected from his wayward son. The kiss was so gentle and tender and full of misplaced longing, and Bruce understood it so very well. These moments of trauma ultimately brought him closer to Jason whether or not he wanted them to. He let the brush of lips happen, content to have Jason smear blood all over his face if that's all it took to get what he desired.
The rumble of a groan left his lips as Jason pulled away, understanding why but ultimately disappointed as well. Anyway, Bruce already had a syringe in hand, easing it into Jason's thigh where the medicine would slide through his veins and ease him into a worry-free sleep.
"I'll be here," he said, his own free hand cupping Jason's cheek. "The entire time."
Bruce waited until Jason knocked out before he started on the leg, the fingers, undressing Jason efficiently so he could get to every single bruise and scab. Leg first, then he'd worry about the rest.
Their relationship had never been particularly stable or healthy. Jason had been a feisty, scrappy little thing with far too much life experience for someone so young. He'd demanded an emotional connection that Bruce either hadn't been willing to give him...or hadn't been able. Dying and then coming back-coming home hadn't changed that. Not really.
They came together as they always had, needy and desperate. Each craving something that the other could almost offer. They'd lose themselves in each other's bodies and for a few short hours things were good. But then the Mission would continue and Jason would wake up alone to reports of Batman arriving on the scene of some petty crime halfway across the city and the cycle would start all over again.
But this time was different, right? Bruce had saved him. Had grappled across the city to pull him from a building that was going to slowly crush him to death. Bruce had chosen him, right?
Right?
He woke up slowly, his body heavy and sluggish with pain medication. It was just enough to knock off the edge and Jason groaned as he carefully started to process his injuries. His hands were bandaged, but not bound. His head hurt, but not badly enough for a concussion. Mostly, it was just his leg, which was reset and splinted all the way up to his hip. It was propped up on a pillow and half melted ice packs ran along either side.
He wasn't surprised that he was only in his underwear. Nor was he surprised to find himself staring at a familiar ceiling when he finally blinked open his eyes.
When Bruce heard his name, he moved from where he was wringing a wet towel out in the en suite. He'd removed his uniform and was only in a pair of lounge pants at the moment, his broad chest full of fresh scars and old wounds, some of them caused by the very person he was currently coming to check on. Jason was a hell of a shot and even better with a knife.
"I'm right here, Jason," Bruce said, his voice low with promise as he approached the bed and looked down at the state of Jason. "How are you feeling?"
Marks for marks, scars for scars. They'd each carved themselves into the other's skin, Bruce with a batarang to Jason's throat, Jason with blades and his guns.
He watched Bruce come towards him, his gaze flicking to that broad, marked up chest repeatedly. He hurt and he was drugged and he was exhausted, but Bruce had always been able to side step all of that. The man was beautiful. Powerful and commanding in a way that both set every instinct in Jason on edge and laid them out to relax at the same time.
Like cuddling up to a purring big cat.
"Like I was crushed by my own building. How bad is my leg?"
"You won't be able to walk on it for a while," he said, plainly, not missing the slow, lazy drag of Jason's gaze over his body. He knew what he looked like and exactly how vulnerable Jason was, and he wasn't above using those things to get what he wanted from Jason in particular. "But it will heal. I reset the bone, so it will be slow going."
Bruce took a seat on the edge of the bed beside Jason, his hips brushing Jason's almost casually. Almost like an accident. And when he reached out, it was to get Jason's pulse and feel for his fever, not just to linger and touch him again.
"I don't know yet who was beyond the explosions, but I'm close," he said. "I'll find them."
The news, as dramatic and serious as it was, didn't really come as a surprise. One didn't survive a building collapse without something to show for it. And if anyone other than a doctor was going to reset his leg, Bruce was the next best option. The man had probably spent at least an hour meticulously ultrasounding his leg to make sure that each and every piece was back where it belonged. More importantly, if Bruce thought that Jason needed an actual surgeon, he wouldn't have hesitated to stage an excuse and he would have woken up in the hospital, not Bruce's bedroom.
He closed his eyes when Bruce sat next to him, soaking in the warmth of him. His hip against his own, his hands on his face.... To the casual observer, it would be almost clinical, but Jason knew better. He had known this man and his tastes for most of his life, after all. Keeping his eyes closed, he turned into the touch, brushing his lips against that large, calloused palm.
"Sionis or Dent. They're the only ones with the resources to know that I got that building. Maybe a few small time gangs I've been picking apart. Whoever did it thought it was empty, so they did it to send a message.
Stop. Just...stop. I'm too tired for this song and dance and you...you pulled me outta there and just fucking lay down and let me pretend I'm 14 again, okay? Let me pretend we're still us and I'm allowed to be comforted by your heartbeat again."
Bruce stopped, pulling his hands back and looking Jason over. He hadn't anticipated that Jason would be this eager for him, that he'd nearly be begging for Bruce to touch him. And the reminder of what they'd done when Jason was much, much younger didn't go unnoticed either.
"What is it that you're asking from me?" Bruce asked, his voice quiet enough to exist just between them. He wasn't sure if he was capable of holding Jason without making it something more, no matter the injuries.
"Fucking hell..." He scrubbed at his face with one bandaged hand, irritation creeping back up along his spine. "I hurt, I'm drugged and you just saved my life. Can you not overthink everything for one night and let me be okay with you holding me? And if that means fucking me, then fine. Help me roll over and prop up my leg so you don't jostle it too much. Or I could suck you off like I used to do. If...If you'd want that."
The last bit came out a little unsure. It was an offer he hadn't made since they'd started seeing each other again, too angry to trust himself and well aware that a layer of violence was expected between them. But if Bruce choking him on his cock got the man to lay the fuck down...well, it wouldn't be the first time.
"All I've ever fucking wanted was to feel like you loved me enough to chose me over your damned mission for one fucking night and it finally happens and you're making me talk about it. Fucking rude, B."
If Jason actually thought Bruce had given up on the mission for an entire night, he certainly had another think coming and it would be a terrible wake-up call that Bruce was a zebra who never changed his stripes. He was practically incapable of it. His mind always a thousand miles away and a thousand miles ahead, never allowing himself the chance to just exist and be vulnerable with someone he cared for.
He hummed in thought, already imagining this was not going to end well, but then again, it never did. So he eased onto the bed beside Jason, taking up more space than any human man should be capable of, and turning Jason carefully onto his side with his leg still propped up. No matter what they did, Jason had to keep it elevated and still to heal and the one thing Bruce wouldn't do was compromise Jason's future health for a fuck.
"Come here then," he said, knowing full well Jason couldn't exactly 'come here' like normal and that Bruce had to be the one to slide his hands around his waist and haul him close. Bruce's front to Jason's back, he put his body flush against Jason's, half-hard just from the sight of Jason if he was honest but just letting them both get situated first. One massive arm around Jason's middle, the other smoothing his hair out of his face. "I've got you."
Nothing they ever did ended well. The closest they'd ever come had been before, because Jason had come to Bruce already familiar with sex and the knowledge that pain came with it. Bruce hadn't needed to watch him from afar until his needs outgrew his caution because Jason had come to the Manor expecting to be taken to Bruce's bed.
It was what he was good at. What he'd been doing to survive. Why the hell would Bruce Wayne keep him around if he wasn't warming his bed? It wasn't until he'd become Robin that Bruce had actually taken his offer seriously, but those early years? Just the two of them? It had been good. Yeah, it hurt, but it was a good hurt and it was different if Bruce was the one hurting him. It was different if Bruce was the one doing a lot of things to him. Bruce loved him.
It was why he'd taken the accusations of pushing Garzonas so personally. No. It was why he'd taken Bruce being so angry about Garzonas' death so personally. He hadn't pushed the man, but he wasn't sad to see him dead and...and it drove a wedge between them that had only gotten wider.
But for tonight, he wanted that wedge gone. Tonight, he wanted to curl up against Bruce's chest and pretend like their lives had gone a different direction. Pretend that they could have this, for just a few hours.
It hurt to roll onto his side, but with Bruce's strong hands to help him, he went easily. Having the broad warmth of Bruce's chest against his back was soothing and he sighed softly as he shifted back, threading the bandaged fingers of one hand into the hand that draped across his hips. The other got a small, almost shy brush of his lips before he closed his eyes and let himself relax back into that hold.
"You know how much it drives me crazy when you call me that," Bruce purred, dragging his lips along the back of Jason's neck, his collar bones, his shoulder. "It's been a long time." A long time since they'd been together like this, longer since Jason had really wanted it as much as Bruce did. Or maybe that wasn't true, as Bruce knew his want of his son was more than anyone should want another person.
If he had it his way, he'd keep Jason locked up for his own entertainment only. To be used at his whims, loved so deeply that no one else could ever see.
"Tell me if it's too much." And that wasn't exactly because he was worried about Jason getting hurt (or not just because, anyway) but more because he liked being the one to both hurt and heal him.
The irony was that it would have been so easy for Jason to have ended up exactly that. Bruce Wayne's personal play toy, kept away from the world save for when Bruce wanted to show him off. That was exactly what he'd been expecting all those years ago when Batman had dropped him off at Wayne manor and Alfred had bustled him away to shove him in a bathtub while the butler made him food.
It had been being Robin that had given him enough sense of purpose that he'd looked away from that life of pampered play thing. He could help people. He did help people. And he was good at it. It was why he hadn't left Gotham when he'd decided to stop trying to kill Bruce and Tim. He was useful, a symbol to people that even Batman couldn't really touch.
Lips roamed his skin and Jason shivered and bowed his head to offer more space to be explored. His own body was sluggish, blood loss and shock keeping his cock soft and still in his underwear, but that didn't stop him from basking in the attention being offered.
"Yeah, that's usually what happens when you slit someone's throat. They stop being so easy." But for as harsh as his words could have been, his tone carried almost no heat at all. In fact, he arched his back a little, the hand laced with Bruce's guiding the larger man's up to his chest. His nipples had always been sensitive and their years of separation had only made them more so.
"It's okay, daddy. You can hurt me a little bit. I can take it..."
[The reassurance earned her a tired smirk and he shook his head as he made his way to the bathroom.]
I listen to everything. And I don't think I need anything more than burn cream and a few bandages? We'll see after I scrub the worst of this off. I won't be long.
[He was true to his word, leaving the door open as he carefully peeled off his armor and stepped into the shower. It hurt, but as the grim came away, he started to be able to tell the difference between his own blood and the blood that he was caked in. By the time he was done, his skin was pink and clean, a line of burns that seemed to trace the outline of his armor amid all the rest of his various scars.
He had half a mind to wrap himself fully in another towel to spare her from the ragged line of the Y-incision that bisected his torso, but he didn't want to ruin another towel. She'd survive and if it really made her uncomfortable, then she could decide which towel to ruin. He wrapped his one towel firmly around his waist, then gingerly made his way back out into the main room.]
If you need more just holler. I've got just about everything legal you'd find in the trauma section of a well stocked ambulance and a few things you won't find. And don't worry about the towels.
[She looked up from the laptop, her rapid typing not even slowing slightly as she blinked, cocking her head to one side.] That looks like an autopsy scar? [Her tone was part curious and part satisfied as if she'd had something confirmed] You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to.
Mmm, I haven't gotten my hands on you all week, baby. I ain't gunna promise shit, but for you I'll at least try.
[His grin was openly flirty and he gave a playful little wink at the newbie. To his surprise, the other man shifted a little and glanced at Greene briefly before he shot them a quick smirk. The expression was gone before Greene looked back over at him and Jason's brow arched a little.
Interesting.]
Babe...how many other other people in your office are openly gay?
[Greene sputtered, looking a little like he'd bitten into a lemon.] I don't see how that is one, any of your business or two, pertinent to the conversation!
Really? Quote: It's not enough when your boyfriend is running up more costs. End quote. That sounds to me like he doesn't ask everyone else in your department for more than 'I need it'. What's that sound like to you, Larry?
[The newbie shifted, mumbling an excuse and gesturing with his pilfered plate before ducking out of the conversation.]
[Edward blinked, equally surprised by the reaction to Jason's teasing. Maybe the upcoming change would be an improvement, after all. Even if it was Jason's presence swaying the newcomer, Edward was more than happy to exploit that as long as he needed to.
Besides, Jason's presence came with other benefits. Edward hid his smile behind the flimsy paper cup of coffee he was nursing, listening to the sputtering of his personal headache. A moment later, it was just the three of them. He let a hand wander back to find Jason's side, drawing Greene's eyes to the touch.]
It does feel personal. [He tilted his head musingly, as if just now thinking things over.] One might even say targetted. That would reflect poorly on you if true. I'd hate for your new employer to think you could prove a liability to them.
[The man scowled, looking like he was considering a retort, but after a glance at Jason, he made a disgusted noise and spun on his heel.] Fine, you're not my problem soon anyway. Have fun explaining bankrupting your department when I'm gone, Nashton.
[Edward watched him leave, waiting till he was out of earshot to speak again.] I never fail to be impressed by your talent. I thought I was going to be stuck all night.
[Tossing his cup into a nearby bin, he turned and grabbed Jason's hand, drawing himself close to the larger man's side like they were actually a couple.] Let's head for the exit. I'll give you a bonus if you can get us out of here without anyone else bothering me.
[Surely not too difficult given the looks Jason drew from most of his coworkers but a little extra motivation wouldn't hurt.]
[It seemed like maybe the replacement had a better head on his shoulders than Greene. Though, from what Jason had seen of the latter, that wasn't that difficult to pull off. Greene was snobby and judgmental and Jason could see the man being perfectly at ease at one of his father's galas.
It didn't endear him to the man at all. There was a reason he'd left that life as soon as he'd been able to and didn't go back to it, no matter how much easier it would be.
Smirking at Greene's retreating back, Jason turned his attention back to his would be date.]
I didn't know you had a function tonight or I would have tried to re-work my schedule.
[If he'd had enough time, he could have traded with Roy, but Roy had already made plans to take Lian to the botanical gardens. And really, who was he to deny his favorite niece time with her father? But he was there now and freedom was so close it was almost tangible.
Almost.
Wrapping his arm around Edward's waist, he started to navigate his way to the door. The dark ink that twisted up along both his arms combined with the silver in both his eyebrow and his lip cleared the path for them for the most part, but even that didn't dissuade everyone. Jason caught sight of a woman he recognized from previous nights like this one. She was smiling and heading their way, half waving as if to catch his attention and Jason remembered exactly how long the woman could talk when she got going.
He didn't let her have the chance.
He ducked his head like Edward was whispering in his ear...then laughed and tugged the older man around to face him. They hadn't talked about this and he wasn't 100% sure that he wasn't ruining their deal by overstepping, but he didn't let himself hesitate to draw the man into his arms and bow his head to kiss him.
Most people got uncomfortable when faced with public displays of affection. He was hoping that she was one of them.
Did that mean that he had to put quite so much passion and tongue into that kiss? No. But if he was only going to have one chance to kiss Edward, he was going to make it worthwhile.]
Mm, I thought I'd be able to avoid it this time, or I would have told you. [He huffed, annoyed he'd underestimated his employer's need to force these gatherings on him despite his distaste.] I've been here since before any of them turned up today, but that's still not enough to get me out of this waste of time.
[He forced the sulky look off his face as Jason wrapped an arm around him, and they made their way towards the door. It was easier to forget his irritation with the looks that most of his coworkers turned their way, looks that only encouraged Edward to smirk and press tighter against the younger man's side. It didn't matter that Jason had only come for the promised payment; he was getting Edward out of there, and that was all that mattered.
Although the opportunity to press himself against the solid wall of muscle that was his supposed boyfriend wasn't so bad either. It had been a while since Edward had had time for anything of the sort, be it a one-night stand or actually dating. It was frustrating to realise how badly he'd missed casual contact like this. But so long as Jason didn't know, he figured he could indulge a little.
His good mood abruptly soured when he caught sight of one of the wittering idiots that made up management approaching them. He was going to be stuck there for another hour at least if someone didn't-
Jason tugged him around, pulling him closer and before he could ask why there was a pair of lips pressed against his own.
Edward pressed into the kiss immediately, mouth opening at the first brush of Jason's tongue. This was another thing he'd missed, even as, in the back of his mind, he recognised the strategy for what it was. Jason was making a good show, and it would be a shame to waste the effort.
It was too easy to lose himself in the kiss, at least until a voice called from nearby-] Get a room already!
[Pulling away, Edward ignored the heat he could feel in his cheeks, keeping his eyes on Jason as he tugged them towards the door again.] Yes, I think we should before you give me any more ideas.
[The plan had been a success as no one stopped them as he dragged Jason quickly out to the elevator and down to the carpark. He only released the younger man when he'd dragged Jason over to where he could see the distinctive motorcycle parked. Edward came to a halt beside it, forcing himself to turn and smirk at Jason like he usually would.]
An expert rescue as usual. I should have called you in earlier.
[The call for them to get a room meant that when Edward pulled back, a blush was creeping out over the bridge of Jason's nose. He didn't mind PDA, had in fact weaponized it for situations exactly like this one. But he'd lost himself a little into that kiss and for just a split second, he'd forgotten that he was just a hired man.
Fuck, Edward felt so fucking good.
Shoving his hands through his hair, the younger man let himself be dragged along. He didn't put up a fuss, keeping his arm looped around the smaller man's waist until they'd made it all the way down to his bike. Then Edward was letting go and twisting to turn around and for just a second Edward might see Jason's gaze lingering on his lips before the younger man made himself look away.]
Yeah. No, I mean, of course. My pleasure.
[He was smoother than this, dammit. Why did this man turn him into a stuttering idiot?
Taking a deep breath, he gnawed lightly on his lower lip for a moment before he glanced over to his bike.]
You know, I am pretty hungry. Wanna grab a bite? There's a burger joint a few blocks south of here that has amazing fries. Truffle butter or some shit like that.
[Edward dismissed the apparent subject of Jason's attention - he was letting the ploy and his own enjoyment of physical affection influence his perceptions. It would be foolish to think Jason was there for more than a job and maybe some degree of sympathy over his plight.
Snorting softly at the fumbling, he was about to turn to go find his car and save Jason the trouble of making an excuse to get away when the younger man spoke again. He glanced back in surprise, head tilting as he studied Jason. The company would be preferable to going home to his empty apartment to either work on his personal project or load up a game to play, and it had been some time since he'd eaten his quick lunch whilst poring over his work. He turned back with a deliberately casual shrug.]
I did offer you food. It would be unfair not to follow through after such a stellar performance.
[Even if Jason was just looking for a free meal, he hadn't been bad company in any of their previous meetings. If that changed with a more personal setting, that would help remind Edward that this was a practical arrangement, not anything else. And if it didn't, well, that would make future acts like tonight all the more convincing.
Stepping closer to Jason and the bike, Edward gave the latter a wary look.] As long as you thought to bring a spare helmet?
[Otherwise they were taking his car, no arguments.]
[He hadn't actually expected the older man to say yes and as soon as he did, Jason's smile turned from practiced charm to lopsided excitement.]
Yeah? Great, I think you'll really like this place. Very modern.
[His own helmet, simple red with custom panels to make it fit closer to his skull, was hanging securely from it's lock on his frame. Holding up a finger, he turned back towards his bike, jiggling the janky lock on the storage bin until it finally flipped open. From inside, he pulled out a slightly smaller helmet. Green with purple edging, a full face shield to protect him from debris that managed to get past Jason's bulk.
Blushing slightly, he held out the helmet and cleared his throat. Honestly, all that was missing was digging his toe into the ground.]
This one should actually fit you better than the black one I've had you wear before. And it has a built in sound and walkie system, so we can talk while on the bike. If you want it, of course.
[The change in Jason's expression was charming, moreso than anything else he'd seen from the younger man. Edward didn't examine it too closely or the idea that Jason had considered what sort of food he might like. It was more likely somewhere Jason wanted to go for himself, and this was a convenient opportunity. So long as the food was decent, he wouldn't begrudge it.]
I'll hold you to that.
[Blinking at the helmet that Jason produced, Edward took it carefully and examined it. The colour scheme was noteworthy... but green was hardly an unpopular choice. It certainly wasn't worth reading into what had to be a helmet chosen for a college friend who, like most people, was of smaller stature than Jason and happened to have similar tastes to Edward.]
I'm hardly going to ride without, am I? [Putting on his typical smirk, he quickly patted down his pockets to ensure he had everything he might need.] It will be refreshing to be able to talk to you and find out what's going on rather than waiting till we arrive.
[He tugged the helmet on and spread his arms for Jason to assess, trying not to seem too invested in the younger man's opinion.]
[It was true that the helmet could have been meant for someone else, but the padding inside was undented and crisp. There were no trapped hairs in the fabrics or scuff marks on the art outside. It was a new build, unworn and fresh. It fit Edward like a glove and Jason's smile widened as the older man pulled it on.]
That looks better than I was hoping it would. You are missing one thing, though.
[He shrugged out of his jacket, giving the leather a shake before he held it open for Edward to slid his arms in. It would be big on him, of course, and there was a scent of motor oil that clung to it, but it would protect Edward's nicer clothes as well as his torso should something happen.]
There, perfect. Well...Perfect until we can get you a better jacket. Mine is no where near nice enough for you, but it's all I got right now.
[He swung his leg over the bike, settling his weight onto the saddle as he pulled his own helmet on. He touched where his ear would be, then reached out to lightly do the same on Edward's.]
[So a new helmet for a friend Jason hadn't yet seen to share it with. At least it saved Edward from needing to ask questions about the other users' hygiene before putting it on.
He tilted his head at Jason's assessment until the jacket was presented to him. Chuckling to himself - he really wasn't dressed for the ride, having not anticipated when he got ready that morning - he slid his arms into it and let it fold around him. Trying not to dwell on the lingering warmth or let Jason see him inhaling, trying to catch a hint of anything beneath the smell of motor oil.]
Mm, you can tell me where I should go shopping for one and help me pick it out.
[He wouldn't, of course. It would be foolish to invest in something like that for the sake of their act, but it was an enjoyable fantasy to indulge in for now.
Waiting as Jason settled himself on the bike, Edward nodded.] You're clear as can be.
[He sat himself behind Jason, arms winding around the younger man tightly. It wasn't his first time riding with Jason but there was still a little flicker of anxiety that came with doing so that at least saved him from needing to find an excuse for how close he pressed himself to the broad back in front of him.]
I'm ready to get some distance from here before they try and drag me back.
Just about everyone who sells clothes has a leather jacket, but if you're after something that will actually do it's job while you ride, you wanna go to Wilson's. Or another place that specializes in riding gear. That's where this one is from, albeit from like six years ago. That's the great thing about leather, though. You take care of it and it'll last a lifetime. Hell, that jackets survived two wipeouts and my best friend.
[His smirk was audible and he shook his head as he reached up to flick his face shield down. He took a moment to make sure his passenger had a good grip, then he was turning over the engine and basking in the throaty growl the machine gave in the confines of the parking garage. For a split second he considered whipping out of the parking spot, but Edward had only ridden with him a couple of times and he rather liked the feeling of the smaller man against his back.
He kept it smooth and controlled, rolling easily through the garage until he was finally able to pull out onto the street.]
So, why does he hate you? Greene, I mean. He's obviously targeting you and I'm guessing it didn't actually start when you started showing up to work functions with a guy.
[Jason hopefully wouldn't notice the way Edward's hold on him tightened at the mention of a wipeout - multiples, in fact. Maybe he would splurge on something after all. Even if he only rode with Jason a few more times till the younger man tired of the act, it would be worth it not to be plagued by visions of road rash. He could always give it to Jason when it was no longer needed to pass along to whatever friend the helmet was for.
Still holding tight as they left the garage, he huffed at the question.]
Hardly. He's gotten worse since then, but he disliked me from the moment I was hired over a barely-competent friend of his. [He shrugged.] He might have gotten over that if I hadn't immediately pointed out the idiocy of certain ideas he was pushing in front of most of upper management.
[With exactly that degree of tact.] Add in the fact I'm not willing to compromise the quality of my work to allow him to boast about reduced spending on the project, and he's taken to exerting petty authority wherever possible.
[Getting to vent his frustration served as a good distraction from any concerns over a potential fall at least, and Edward's grip around Jason had settled down into merely snug as he talked.] Once he's gone, I'll only have to deal with the idiots who want to pester me about socialising and 'team-building' at those things.
[His tone made it clear how distasteful that prospect still was.]
[It Jason noticed or not, he kept it to himself as he pulled out onto the road. He kept the bike steady and even, tame in comparison to the few times that Edward had ridden in with him for work functions. Those times had been all about the show of Edward getting off the back of his boytoy's big bike, but this time there were no witnesses to show off to. It was just them and Edward might appreciate the fact that without that layer of requested drama, Jason was actually a pretty reasonable driver.
Or, as reasonable as could be expected for someone who willingly threaded through Gotham traffic without a chassis to protect him.]
Sounds like it's past time for him to be moving on. I'm glad he finally is. The new kid seems like a better fit. He didn't push back too hard when I stole his food and he certainly didn't sneer when we touched. At the very least, I don't think he's a bigot. Hopefully, his accounting style will just that little bit more relaxed.
[They hit a stoplight and Jason sat up a little, leaning back into Edward's arms as he stretched his shoulders and flexed his arms. He hadn't been lying about being at work and he was stiff after working all day. The mechanic shop was small, but it was respected and they had clientele from all parts of Gotham, including Bristol. He and Roy both worked there and for as small as the place was, it went a long way to pay for their two bedroom apartment.
Before, Jason had filled that difference with overnight shifts at the warehouses, unloading pallets until 4 in the morning before going home to crash until 7 when he had to get up to get ready for his morning classes. Now, Edward filled in that gap and Jason had never been more thankful for actual time to sleep and study.]
I got a question. You hate the people there so much....have you ever thought about starting up on your own?
[Whether the more careful driving was Jason's true norm or a concession to Edward's nerves, he wasn't going to question it. It was reassuring and meant he didn't feel the need to cling as tightly, so that was what mattered. He still preferred the safety of a car with airbags and crumple zones, and every other modern safety feature, but this was fine.
He hummed at Jason's assessment of the replacement.] He does seem like he will be more tolerable at the very least. [A chuckle.] Or he just wanted to make a good impression on you. In which case I'll be calling you in more often.
[He shifted as Jason sat back, still keeping ahold of the younger man but allowing him to stretch out as needed. And if he found himself watching the play of muscles on Jason's arms, that was his business. He'd looked into the mechanic shop where Jason worked during his investigation of his companion's surprisingly sparse social media presence and had some idea of how busy it kept the younger man. It made sense of Jason's lack of online life compared to Edward's prolific posting across platforms.
He was pulled from his thoughts of social media stalking by the question, tensing up where he was pressed against Jason's back. Edward frowned, considering how much to share as the light turned, and they started moving again.] To do that, I need capital. Enough to get a company off the ground. I don't have that yet or enough connections to convince someone who does to fund me.
[He fidgeted unconsciously, fingers twisting together and toying with the fabric of Jason's shirt.] This project I'm working on. Once I finish it and it goes live, that will be my chance. They say there are already buyers interested, and I'll get a cut of whatever they sell it for. I built the thing from scratch, the money and the reputation I'll get, I can start something actually worth my time. [He shrugged, trying to sound nonchalant about the plan like it wasn't something he'd been thinking about for years but hadn't yet made a reality.] It's just a matter of seeing this through.
[As far as social media went, Jason didn't exist. He showed up in the wings of others, of course. His siblings would sneak pictures of him and post them, but without an account of his own they couldn't tag him. And even if he did have an account they could tag, the last name would be different than the one that Edward would be searching for. No less accurate and real, but different nonetheless.
In fact, the only social media posts that came up under 'Todd' were from his room mate and best friend. Usually pictures of him with a little girl, either candid or with Jay rolling his eyes and using the baby to hide his face. He was a private person, it would seem, which helped paint the picture of how exhausted he'd been when he'd first made his profile on the app that he and Edward had met through. Something had had to change or he was going to break. Fortunately, something had changed and Jason was very pleased that it had and not entirely because now he got to actually sleep.
He listened as he wove them through traffic, nodding a little as Edward explained why he'd been working so hard on this particular project. It made sense and he could hear the thin thread of eager excitement in Edward's voice...but there was a part of him that had spent too long at his dad's elbow during board meetings that questioned if the company was going to follow through with that 'promised' cut. Or if they'd change the percentage after the fact, before the contract could be drawn up. If Edward didn't have one already, it was a concern.
Covering those fidgeting fingers with his hand he gave them a reassuring squeeze as he leaned into the turn that took them off the street and into the parking lot for the surprisingly small little bistro.]
You know I'm double majoring in business finance and tax, right? If you want me to look over any contracts, I can. I can also recommend some really good finance lawyers who don't have that much of a retainer. If you're interested, of course. I'd hate for you to put all this work into this project and end up getting dicked over by upper management.
I really want to see you take that step.
[It was surprising how true that statement felt. Edward had never once taken him up on the traditional routes that most people took with situations like theirs. Jason wasn't a 'sugar baby', he was more of an employee. A mask to hide behind for functions like the one they'd just left. If Edward went into business for himself, there would be no work functions and, since Edward had no use for him outside of that, it would be back to the warehouses.
[That lack of any social media had made Jason's presence on the app so suspicious that Edward had been certain the younger man was running some kind of scheme at first. Being less active than Edward himself was one thing, but to have no footprint at all - without being some old man or wealthy recluse? It was suspicious. After that first gathering, he'd been hesitant to reach out again despite how well Jason had played his role, concerned that further meetings would lead to trouble of some kind.
It was only the sheer exhaustion that had been obviously plaguing Jason when they met - and his ever-growing frustration with his coworkers - that had convinced Edward to contact the younger man again. Finding that handful of posts from Jason's roommate had further helped to dismiss those concerns, and now he thought nothing of going alone with Jason to some small, out-of-the-way restaurant.
He'd even gotten comfortable enough to share his future plans, things he'd shared with almost no one else. Hands stilling under Jason's, he breathed out slowly, surprised by the wave of relief that came when the younger man didn't mock the idea of starting on his own despite being the one to bring it up.]
I don't doubt your capability but it's fine. I've built the whole thing from the ground up. Engineering, bespoke programming, it's all me. If they want to implement any upgrades in the future without starting from scratch, they need me to teach the other programmers. Anything less, and it will be months of additional work just to be able to do basic troubleshooting once I've left. They'd be fools to take that risk.
[Edward distracted himself from Jason's baffling encouragement as the bike came to a halt, sitting back and dismounting, removing the helmet to pat at his hair. It was easier than dwelling on why Jason would care about his career and future plans. Leaving his current employer didn't benefit the younger man at all, and thanks to the NDAs in place, Jason knew barely anything about what Edward was working on. He'd call it an act, playing the part of the caring boyfriend, if it didn't sound so sincere. Which was still possible but if that were the case, Jason was missing his calling as an actor.
Clearing his throat once he'd done as much as he could to fix the mild case of helmet hair, Edward turned towards the entrance to the bistro. On a whim, he offered Jason his arm.] Shall we? I want to see if it lives up to the expectations you've set.
You realize that everything you just said is just giving your company all the more reason to keep you under their thumb, right? I'm not trying to say that they aren't going to pay you and keep their end of the deal, I'm just saying that if you don't already have contracts in place, you should do that as soon as you can. If it's not written down, it doesn't exist.
[He followed Edward off the bike, taking off his own helmet and clipping it securely to it's lock. Edward's joined it and he made sure they were both secured and switched off before he turned back to the other man.
The sight of him fussing with his hair was endearing and Jason smiled as he reached up to give his own dark curls a little bit of a fluff. They didn't really need it, but this was the first time he was going to be out in public with Edward that wasn't a work function. The first time he just got to be himself instead of the punk biker flyboy that Edward had hired him to be. So what if he wanted to look a little presentable as he took that arm and let himself be lead into the building.
Inside, the bistro was a blend of sleek modern and wood classic and as they were greeted and taken back to a table, Jason found himself settling into his skin just that little bit more.]
Confession time: I've never actually been inside. Roy gets this place from Doordash at work. Which probably means I've tasted everything through a layer of garage grease, but hey...it was still delicious.
[Edward waved off Jason's concern about his admittedly non-existent contracts - it would be fine; he could handle any attempts to deny him what he was owed. He was smarter than anyone at the company; how could they possibly outwit him? And after finally escaping the office, he wasn't in the mood to discuss contracts and that tiresome legal drudgery. Not when he still didn't see why Jason would want him to succeed in his future plans.
Brushing those thoughts aside, he took in the interior of the bistro critically as they were led to their table. Edward settled himself in his seat and picked up the menu, giving Jason an amused look over it at the confession, lips twitching into a smirk.]
That makes me concerned for your tastebuds more than anything. If you ask them to bring you out some engine grease as a condiment, I'm leaving. [Despite the dig, he went on after another glance at the menu.] So what do you recommend?
[He didn't like the fact that Edward was brushing off the idea of having a contract in place, but he recognized the handwave for the dismissal it was. He didn't like it, but he didn't push it, either. Edward was the genius, after all. He probably already had the contracts in place and Jason was just fretting over nothing.
He smiled and thanked the hostess as he settled into his seat, taking a moment to unwrap his flatware so he could drape the napkin over one thigh. It was good manners, sure, but it was also just as simple as Jason being well aware of the fact that he'd wipe his hands on his jeans if he didn't have the napkin there. He was too used to wearing his work coveralls, which were already stained to all hell. What more was a little fry grease?
At the tease, he glanced up, feigning a bit of excitement as he twisted as if to find their waiter.]
You really think they'd have it?
[He grinned, that goofy lopsided thing from the parking garage instead of the sleezy, overly charismatic one from the party.]
A burger. That's what I'm getting, anyway. I stole a bite of Roy's last week and nearly fell off the jack I was sitting on.
[The Jason who spread his napkin over his lap was a far cry from the one that showed up to his work functions. Edward had requested the act and knew it was that, but it was still intriguing to see the difference between it and reality. It left him questioning what other surprises the real Jason might reveal over the course of the meal.
Snorting at the act and Jason's genuine smile, Edward shook his head in mock disapproval.] And that's praise - that you nearly experienced physical harm from a single bite of the food? I'm not any less worried about your sense of taste hearing that.
[He was still smirking as he waved the waiter over and ordered himself a burger, the promised truffle fries and an energy drink before looking expectantly at Jason. It didn't fit the image he tried to project among his coworkers, but it was surprisingly easy to relax and not worry about that with Jason. Maybe it was the times the younger man had listened to his frustrated complaints about those coworkers or knowing where Jason worked and what that entailed. He wouldn't examine it too closely, settling back in his seat and waiting for Jason to order. Once the waiter had left, he tilted his head curiously.]
What are your plans for the rest of the evening?
[Since Jason wouldn't be running off to another job after this. Presumably, some studying but it was possible there were other plans too.]
[Jason followed suit, closing his menu and handing it to the waiter as he ordered a burger (medium well) and fries. Lemonade to drink, despite the rather impressive cocktail menu. Which wouldn't be that surprising if Edward had noticed that even when he got a drink at work functions, he only ever sipped at it. He apparently had some skill with acting buzzed while only nursing at one drink.]
To be fair, I think some engine grease might have made those cheap canapés your company serves actually edible. They seriously expect you guys to eat those? They taste like cardboard and fake caviar.
[He made a face, shaking his head as he reached out to grab a roll from the basket the waiter left behind.]
Well, Roy is taking Lian to the Gardens for the candlelight butterfly thing, so I'll have the apartment to myself for a few hours. I should study, I've got some tests coming up...but it's not often I get the kitchen to myself for any stretch of time, so I'll probably take the opportunity to restock our freezer. What about you? Any big plans in the works?
[Smearing butter on both halves of the torn open roll, he set one half on a saucer at Edward's elbow before biting into his own.]
[One drink wouldn't make a difference but Edward was perfectly happy for Jason to be a teetotaler when he was relying on the younger man to drop him back to his car later.]
That's probably what they're made of. It's what happens when you want to present an image without paying the price that the reality would require. And yet they still insist on holding those events. [He sneered, the gripe a familiar one.] And I think most of those idiots don't care so long as there's free alcohol.
[Edward had no qualms with indulging a little at those functions when he wasn't driving home, but never to the extent that some did. He didn't particularly care to be impaired, particularly around people he disliked to start with.
Taking the half of the roll Jason had prepared, he took a bite as well, listening to the younger man's answer.] You spend your free time cooking?
[There was a note of amusement in his voice at the revelation. It wasn't what anyone would guess to look at Jason, but that was true of most of the things Edward knew about him, from his studies to his behaviour when not putting on an act.]
I have a few projects I'm working on. [He shrugged, once again trying to project a casual air. Jason wasn't likely to mock those projects when Edward was paying for the meal, but it had been a common enough refrain that it was hard not to expect it still.] I have a new puzzle box design I'm fine-tuning and some modding work I've nearly finished... But I'll probably get a headstart on testing for tomorrow, but there are still a lot of bugs to iron out before I'm ready to demo to investors.
[Jason wasn't exactly a teetotaler, but he preferred to do his drinking in the comfort of his own home. Big groups of people already set his nerves on end and being impaired only made the sensation worse. He had absolutely no qualms about nursing a drink while he cooked or while he was tucked into the couch with a good book, he tended to only sip at the gatherings that he'd been hired for.
One drink wasn't enough to tilt his axis, but he made a good show of being just a little bit sloppy if Edward needed an excuse to stop talking to someone.
Smiling a little at the amusement in Edward's voice, Jason nodded and idly tore off a chunk of his roll to pop it between his lips. It wasn't the first time people got a look at his pierced eyebrow and tattooed arms and got surprised that he was the household cook. Usually those same people were just as surprised when he told them that he wasn't sleeping with Roy and did in fact sleep on the couch so that Lian could have her own room.]
Wait. Back up a second. You design puzzle boxes? Like actual puzzle boxes? That is so cool. I never even considered what it would take to design something like that, but fuck that is impressive. Would you let me see it sometime? I'll never be able to solve it, I'm sure, but I think it would be fascinating to see something like that be built."
[Edward had made his share of assumptions about Jason when they first met, but the younger man had dispelled them all and continued to do so. (Including in those pictures of him with a young girl that Edward had turned up in the social media search that he had no intention of admitting to doing.)
He blinked at Jason, freezing with the roll halfway to his mouth.] As a hobby, yes... As impressive as it is, it's not my most marketable skill.
[Edward got another moment to recover his balance when the waiter returned with their drinks. He'd expected the admission to be met with the typical confusion or polite disinterest that was the most common response - it was all better than sneering disdain for his 'idiotic waste of time'. But Jason was intent on surprising him tonight. Once the server had departed again, Edward set his roll down and cracked his energy drink open, not looking at Jason.]
If you're interested, you can have it when I'm done... I usually hide them in the city and leave clues on Reddit so people can find them. I put a code in each one so people can share and prove they solved it. There's a small community in Gotham that participates. [He glanced at Jason from the corner of his eye, assessing the younger man's reaction to that bit of frivolity.] Or I can show you the design process and construction if that's of more interest.
[His rebuttal was interrupted by their drinks and he absently gave the waiter a practiced smile and 'thank you'. As soon as the man was gone, however, Jason's smile softened once more into his more genuine one as he unwrapped his straw and sipped at his lemonade.]
You know that most people don't care about your most 'marketable' skill, right? I think it's cool. And it's pretty clear that other people find it cool, too. On Reddit, you say? I'll have to look into it. It's like geocaching and Banksy had a love child. Very cool.
Hide it. I don't want to deprive people from what they enjoy. Besides, half the fun is finding it, right? Maybe I'll be the one to find it, who knows.
[He winked, grin widening a little before he chuckled and took another bite of his bread.]
But no hints. I don't want special treatment just because we're friends.
Banksy? Really? [Edward wrinkled his nose at the comparison.] That's nowhere near the level of thought required for a challenging puzzle or riddle.
[But the comparison was less important than Jason's easy acceptance of how he distributed the completed puzzle boxes. Even people who didn't consider making them a waste of time would often question why he wouldn't sell them, failing to see how watching the community race to solve the clues and be first to find the drop location could be worth more than however much the boxes might sell for.
Feeling inordinately pleased by Jason's interest and understanding, he grinned in return and gave an exaggerated scoff.] I don't give out hints to anyone. I'll let you know when I've hidden it, same as everyone. If you can't solve the puzzle based on the clues, you don't deserve to find it.
[Looking down his nose haughtily, Edward tried not to dwell on Jason's decision to label them 'friends'. It was hard not to overthink the word choice and question if it was meant genuinely or if Jason was playing the role he thought Edward wanted from him outside of company gatherings.
His smile slipped before he shook himself from his thoughts and looked back at the younger man.] You seem confident you'll have the free time to piece together the clues and find it.
Oh, I don't know about that. I mean...[He leaned in a little, grin dipping a little in a conspirator gleam.] Can you tell me who he is?
[He chuckled, leaning back and bringing his lemonade up for a sip. Which turned into a decent pull because it was late and he'd worked all day and the lemonade was really good. He didn't quite drain half the glass in one pull, but he did manage a good third of it. Maybe part of the reason for the lemonade over anything else was the simple fact that it was under the 'free refills' label on the menu.]
Mmm, good. I'd hate for someone to find out that you're giving me special treatment. Besides, I'm your friend but I'm not stupid. Maybe not as smart as some of my family, but I bet I could find it.
[The sudden fall of the other man's grin was abrupt and a little startling, but Jason only arched a brow and gave a little half shrug.]
Oh, I won't. You get your cut and start up your own place and I'm right back to the warehouse. But I might have some time come summer. Even if I do take summer courses, I won't be able to take a full course load. And, you know, just because I'll be working two jobs again doesn't mean you can't call me. Not for the app or anything, just...this. I like talking to you. You're fun.
[That little dig startled a laugh out of Edward. Not to be outdone, he pointed at Jason in mock rebuke.] You're the only person who knows that the boxes are mine, and they still present a greater challenge than any mere graffiti.
[So Edward was smarter than an unknown artist.
He toyed with the can in front of him as he watched Jason gulp down his drink with amusement he couldn't suppress. It seemed it really had been a long day at the garage, not that Edward had doubted as much. Curiosity flickered across Edward's face as Jason mentioned his family. The younger man had shared only slightly more on the topic than the nothing Edward had provided. It was a topic he avoided for good reason, but if Jason were going to bring it up, he could at least see what else might come to light.]
I'll be the one to make the determination of how you compare. If you can figure out the puzzle before anyone else. The last one wasn't found for almost four months, so I hope you're prepared to work for it.
[Because, of course, he made the clues to the location harder each time - what would be the point otherwise? Edward took a gulp of his energy drink to cover the way he mulled over Jason's words. The not-unreasonable assumption that once he was free of his current employer, he'd cut Jason free in return, dropping the younger man back where he'd started. He chose to sidestep the suggestion that Jason wanted to stay in contact without anything to gain from the arrangement for now, a different question coming to mind.]
You aren't planning on activating your profile again in that situation? I'm sure you'd have plenty of other interested parties willing to keep you from your Sisiphyian fate.
[A prospect that Edward had no feelings on whatsoever as he let his gaze drift about their surroundings, looking anywhere but at Jason.]
Four months, huh? Well, I'll have the summer, so we'll see if I can find it in two. If I can't, I can always give my work to someone more worthy.
[He smirked, the expression one of easy confidence. He could be competitive, but usually only when it came to his siblings or when he knew someone was about to fuck something up horribly because they don't want to listen. Something like this would be fun and if he found it, he found it. He would be disappointed if he didn't, but he wasn't going to hang himself up over it.
The question about his profile got an arched brow and a small shake of his head. It wasn't disgust, but he also was hoping to make it clear that wasn't really an option for him.]
Nah, I doubt it. It took two years of exhaustion to grind me down to where I made the profile to begin with. The only reason I took you up on your first request was because you seemed pretty clear on what the limits of said job were. You've given me a few months of sleep and time to actually study, pretty sure that'll get me through the next couple of years until I graduate.
[He gave an easy roll of one broad shoulder, reaching up to run his fingers through the mop of dark curls.]
I lucked out in finding you once, I'm not taking my chances to find someone like you a second time. So I guess it'll just be me and Sisi, shouldering up that hill. Good for the thighs.
[Something Edward knew nothing about. He smirked at Jason in return, privately hoping that the younger man would be the one to find the next box. Not enough to make it any less challenging to do so... But it would be intriguing if Jason could solve his clues over the summer break. He'd need to prioritise completing and planting the box in his available free time; the last thing he wanted was for it to have to wait till after he'd gotten away from his current employer when seeing Jason would be... less certain.
Although perhaps less so than he'd thought. Edward frowned at the dismissal of the possibility, already overthinking Jason's reasoning, the fact he'd only accepted Edward's request out of desperation and because he'd known exactly what he was getting into. It was understandable, of course. Edward had had his reservations as well, wondering what scam he was going to be dragged into by the seeming ghost of a stranger. It wasn't something to get caught up in - they'd both gotten what they needed, and soon it would be time to move on.
Deliberately pushing aside those thoughts, Edward smirked and spread his hands.] It's true, I am without compare. And your labours won't be for eternity so I suppose you'll have a chance to appreciate that benefit. If improvement is even possible.
[He hadn't intended that last thought to slip out; it was only that Jason had drawn attention to said thighs. Thankfully, Edward was saved from needing to distract immediately by the server arriving with their food. Plates were set down in front of them both, and after a quick check, whether Jason needed a refill, they were alone again. Edward made a show of examining his meal, once again avoiding looking across the table.]
[The smirk was now a grin, lopsided and relaxed. He'd never thought that an arrangement like theirs would have ended up with the two of them on their own time, teasing each other and-? Flirting? Maybe flirting? The compliment for his thighs certainly made it seem like they were flirting and he couldn't quite help the blush that spread over the bridge of his nose as he ducked his head to hide his smile.
It wasn't that desperation had driven him to Edward, after all. Desperation -and sleep deprivation mixed with a drink he really shouldn't have drank- had driven him to actually click on the link that a fellow student had accidentally sent out to the entire study group. That part was very true. But it had actually been Edward's profile that had gotten his attention. Well...no.
It had been those pretty green eyes in his profile picture that had gotten his slightly inebriated attention. The profile with it's well worded and fairly difficult riddle had kept it. He'd spent so long picking away at the surprisingly sophisticated riddle that by the time he'd sent the answer he wasn't even buzzed anymore, but his exhaustion hadn't felt quite as suffocating as it had. He'd closed his laptop and crawled into bed and by the time morning came, he'd almost forgotten the whole ill conceived thing.
Opening his laptop during class to see a notification of a message waiting for him had been a surprise and from there...well, from there the conversation had been all business. It had been reassuring and comfortable and he'd found himself saying 'yes' before he had time to remind himself of how horrible of an idea it really was.
The waiter coming back with their food made him blink and that blush spread a little as he cleared his throat and accepted the refill with a soft spoken 'thanks'. He'd gotten lost in his thoughts and the memory of exactly how long he'd spent picking through that riddle while also focusing far too intently on Edward's picture.]
Well, I'm a garbage disposal. Take my opinions with several grains of salt.
[But even telling Edward to not take him seriously did nothing to stop him from making a low, pleased sound as he took his first bite of the burger, his eyes closing as he chewed.]
[As desperate as Edward had been for an escape from the work events driving him to the brink, he had been unwilling to waste his time on someone stupid. The point was to get away from the small-minded idiots; adding another to the mix would have helped nothing, even if they looked and acted the part. Someone without the wits required would have been just as likely to give him away or cause troubles with some of his more annoying coworkers. And there had been a small part of him that, as unlikely as it was, had thought maybe he'd meet someone... worth keeping around. He'd, just maybe, been a little lonely since he started work at Powers Technology and thrown himself whole-heartedly into proving his ability and ensuring he would soon be able to start his own business and put his talents to real use. Add in how his last relationship ended, and, well, he'd entertained the fantasy more than he should have.
Hence, the riddle on the profile and its associated offer. He hadn't expected much, believing that most of the people on the app were seeking or offering good looks more than brains. An assumption that several incorrect or deliberately flirtatious answers had reinforced. Jason's correct reply had been a surprise, the reality of him when they first met in person moreso. And the younger man continued to surprise him.
Smiling at the flush that spread over Jason's cheeks, Edward watched with amusement as the younger man let his enjoyment be known when he bit into his burger. Edward picked up his own, taking a bite before he could be caught watching Jason's pleasure at the meal.]
That salt isn't necessary today. [Smirking at Jason, he took a moment to enjoy the flavours before he found himself adding.] But I can put that claim of being a disposal unit to the test in the future if you really want.
[It was rare to see Edward smile. That smug smirk was common enough, but a real smile was something completely different. The smirk made Jason want to sass back, maybe do something to wipe that condescending expression off those pretty lips. Usually it was directed at the man's coworkers, so Jason would slide himself between the offender and the offended, playing up the role of overprotective boyfriend while peppering subtle remarks that most of them never even realized were insults. His English degree expressed in a way that made his dad roll his eyes but made his best friend laugh.
And, occasionally, it got Edward to smile. As new as the expression was, Jason was pretty sure it was already one of his favorites.
Setting his burger down, he grabbed at his napkin to wipe his mouth before he chased his bite with another sip of lemonade and only then did he let himself smile back. And if a few of those freckles were still hanging out on the pink of the blush he was trying hard not to acknowledge, well...so what? There was nothing wrong with having a few freckles.]
I'm glad you like it. You have much better tastes than me, so I was a little afraid that I was hyping it up and you were going to hate it. Glad to know that maybe our tongues aren't that different after all. Gives me hope that letting you put my claim to the test will be as fun as it sounds.
I will give you a heads up, though. Even if I hate it, I'll still eat it. In my house, all mistakes get eaten, be they mistakes made while cooking or ordering.
[He smirked like it might have been a joke, but it wasn't. Like the horrible food at the work party before, once Jason put his fingers on something, he wasn't going to waste it.]
Might box it up so my niece can laugh at the faces I make while I eat it, though. I think that might be one of her favorite games, unfortunately.
[Jason's wit and the subtle sharpness of his tongue had impressed Edward from the first when he saw how easily Jason verbally wove around his coworkers. Most of them didn't even recognise when they'd been insulted, and it had taken a lot for Edward to hold back his laughter. It had come as no surprise to learn what Jason was studying - at least half of it, though he appreciated the younger man's practicality in choosing a second major. Finance wasn't as interesting, but much like Edward's current role, it would be a reliable source of income until Jason could invest himself in what he really loved.
Edward's burger sat forgotten in his hand as his gaze lingered on the flush colouring the younger man's cheeks and the freckles standing out against it endearingly. Until a dribble of sauce ran down his wrist to drip on his sleeve and watchband. Making an annoyed sound, he set his food down to grab a napkin and dab at the mess.]
I have excellent taste, true, but I spent enough time making do with what I could. So not that different even if now I can ensure I only ever have the best. However, I'll warn you that you might find that test less enjoyable than you think.
[He didn't look at Jason as he made the admission, thinking back to his early days in Gotham and, before that, his first experiences cooking for himself as a child. There had been enough days growing up where he only ate if he prepared himself something from what was available that he knew a thing or two about eating anything without complaint. Something that had been even more true when there was a risk of his father finding any thrown-out mistakes, the associated waste of money sure to provoke anger.
Hence the displeased look he gave Jason as he set down the crumpled napkin.] That's a ridiculous policy to have. If I give you something you don't like, don't choke it down.
[That might be an overstep. Huffing, Edward waved a hand and offered magnanimously-] Unless the child in question enjoys your display that much. But you can put on an equally effective show without needing to go method.
[He was going to say something about the drip. Really, he was. He just...got stuck. On the fact that Edward was watching him with those fucking striking green eyes and instead of opening his mouth to say 'You're about to drip', his blush darkened and he tried to hide his little bit of fluster by grabbing his lemonade. By the time he'd taken a drink and felt a little less he might be a stuttering idiot, the drip had already dropped and the moment had passed.]
Food is food. The enjoyable part is the company.
[Had he really just said that?
He cleared his throat and glanced away and in doing so he missed the displeased look that told that the current of their conversation had hit a bend.]
I-?
[He was quick to look back, the blush replaced by a confused furrow to his brows.]
Edward, I didn't mean to upset you. I didn't mean that I wouldn't be honest with you, cause I will. I just- [He cut himself off with a small frown before he wiped his hands and reached forward to lightly touch the back of one of Edward's.]
For a while when I was a kid, we didn't have a whole lot. What we did have was a lot of out of date stuff from the food pantry. My mom wasn't the best of cooks, but we made it work.
I don't do it to that extent anymore, trust me when I say that I never want to taste another weevil again in my life, but I still have...issues with food waste. It's something I've been working on. If it won't kill me, I don't see any reason not to eat something.
If- if it really bothers you...I'll try? You might have to remind me, but I'll try.
[He snorted at the assertion - it was absolutely not the case, even if he was pleased by the compliment. Before he could retort that it was possible to have the best of everything, Jason was looking at him in confusion and apologising.
Edward scoffed and shook his head.] You hardly upset me. If you wish to lie and inflict misery upon yourself, it's no concern of mine.
[He didn't pull away from Jason's touch; that would be giving credence to the idea he was in some way bothered by the topic. And the warmth of the younger man's hand against his own was not unwelcome.
Edward's lips twisted in disgust as Jason explained himself, the prospect of consuming weevils or worse, almost enough to ruin his appetite entirely. Any time food had been lacking in his parent's house, it had been due to their failure to buy groceries, and there had rarely been anything actively spoiled in the house. Maybe he could forgive Jason's attitude - the younger man was still on a tight budget, as Edward knew well. It was why they were there, why this had started in the first place. A far cry from his ability to have whatever groceries he liked delivered to his door. He huffed again and nudged Jason's hand.]
What you do on your own is no business of mine. I don't genuinely plan on feeding you anything unpleasant unless I- [He cut himself off, shaking his head and forcing a smile.] I'll make sure to remind you if we find ourselves sharing anything more than cheap canapés again.
[Which felt unlikely at the moment. Pulling his hand away, Edward picked up his burger again, determined to get the conversation away from uncomfortably personal territory.] But I could give you a chance to demonstrate your skill in the kitchen first so I know where to set the bar. Given I have no way of knowing that you can even prepare something edible.
[If they shared again. If. Well, it was good to know that his people skills were every bit as terrible as Bruce had accused them of being.
Looking away to hide the bright flush of embarrassed shame, he pulled back his hand and once more used his lemonade to cover his inability to just be fucking normal. Why had he said all that? What on earth had given him the idea that this powerful, intelligent man in front of him had any desire to know his sordid history? Yeah, there had been a moment when it had felt like they'd shared something, but Edward's disgusted face made it exceptionally clear that he'd drastically misunderstood.]
Right, well...I don't think my cooking would be up to snuff, anyway. I cook for a six year old and my gear head of a best friend, I'm not a fancy guy. Better to just leave it up to the professionals.
[He managed a small smirk, though it didn't touch his eyes as he popped a fry into his mouth.]
So, when is Greene's last day? Please tell me they're throwing a party and I can 'accidentally' trip him into his own cake.
[Work was a much safer topic. He'd yet to choke on his own boots at one of Edward's work functions. It helped that he was playing a character and not trying to figure out how to be authentic. No one expected him to be anything more than a pierced and tatted hooligan and he could lean into that, just like when he'd still let his family drag him to events. It was a familiar role.]
[Frustration flared in Edward's chest. He might have overstepped a little, telling Jason what to do outside of the work gatherings he wanted the younger for, but he hadn't been wrong. Jason was- Was there because Edward was paying him. And might reasonably be concerned about what demands Edward would make next, no matter what they'd negotiated the first time. Given the app they'd met through and that Edward had commented on the younger man's body moments earlier... it wasn't unreasonable to have such concerns.
Huffing, Edward took another bite of his burger as if he could swallow down the feeling with it. Being interested in his puzzles only meant Jason wasn't an idiot; it didn't indicate anything more than that, as he should have remembered.]
Of course.
[His murmured agreement was deliberately disinterested, accepting the step back towards what was essentially a working relationship, if a better one than those at his actual place of employment.]
They will be having a farewell. If you can manage such a feat and make it seem like he's the one at fault, I'll pay you triple for the night.
[He met Jason's smirk with his own, looking back down at his food after a calculated moment of eye contact. There was no reason he couldn't still enjoy their transactional relationship within its boundaries. Even before tonight, when they'd spent little time together outside of the tedious functions, Jason had been good company. There was no reason that couldn't still be the case.]
Did he bother you that much in one conversation? I was beginning to think I was the only one who recognised how utterly insufferable he is.
[The thing about miscommunications that made them so dangerous was the fact that they were so rarely caught by those doing the communicating. Wires crossed, meanings twisted, entire truths skewed simply because neither party knew to catch the wrong turn. There was no fault, no one to blame.
But there they were. Jason thinking that Edward was disgusted by his past and Edward thinking Jason had rebuked his attempt to push past the limits of their 'contract'. Later, at some far away date when they happened to look back, it would be understandable, maybe even a little humorous. The way they'd stumbled into a shared history only to have their traumas clash off of one another, throwing off the first sparks that would, hopefully, ignite the blaze.
They just had to survive finding their footing once more.
Following Edward's example, Jason took another bite of his burger. He chewed slowly, mostly to hide the small ping of hurt that came from that disinterested answer, but also because if he was chewing he couldn't embarrass himself further. The fact that a party was going to be had for Greene was a life raft that he clung to desperately, and he smiled a little as he shook his head.]
I can't tolerate bigots or assholes, so a bigoted asshole is a slap against my sensibilities. Keep your money, I'll knock him into his cake for free. [His expression softened a little, uncertainty in his eyes as he glanced back down at his plate.]
Hey...I'm sorry for randomly just dumping all that shit...before. You didn't sign up for that and I guess I kinda forgot that for a minute. Won't happen again, I promise.
[Olive branch extended, offered to help both of them across the pebble strewn path of the evening.]
[The food, the future party, both were safe, easy distractions to fall back on. And if the meal had lost some of its savour, well, that was fine. Edward was still hungry and still had to deal with his annoying coworkers tomorrow and for some time still to come.
He chuckled at Jason's reply, the younger man's wit fortunately not discouraged by the slip. The promise was a good one, even if the refusal of extra money felt like another reminder of their boundaries. They had negotiated terms already, and it also wasn't unreasonable to think that extra payment might lead to extra expectations. Pushing away the flare of frustration and something worse (his father would have plenty to say about Edward having dinner with a man he had to pay to be there), Edward fell back on practised professionalism.]
I look forward to seeing it.
[His smirk disappeared, fading into a confused frown as Jason apologised. Staring at the younger man for a long moment, Edward set his burger down again.]
Why would that bother me? You're practically a ghost; it's more than I- [He... shouldn't admit to having tried to stalk Jason online. That didn't tend to go over very well.] Have learned about your history every other time we've spoken.
[But that was doubtless the issue. Waving a hand airily, Edward dismissed the issue.] You're a private person; I can respect that. [Given he had no option but to.] I'm hardly going to demand you start sharing everything with me. We're just sharing a meal after what's been a long day for us both.
[As much as a petulant part of him wanted to point out, it had been Jason's idea to get dinner in the first place. The excuse was there to take, a long day, some thoughtless words. Another easy way out of the awkwardness.]
[Jason had never been particularly good at 'easy'. It wasn't something he was used to, even after being adopted. He could have gotten used to it, of course. He didn't have to work at all if he didn't want to. Or go to school. Or sleep on a couch.
But the idea of just coasting by on his family's coattails was enough to make his stomach twist. No, he'd earn his living. Carve out a bit of life for himself. And that included Edward. He wasn't getting paid to have dinner with the older man. He'd asked first, after all, that meant that he was paying the bill.
It also meant that he wanted to be there, even if Edward couldn't see it.
Arching a brow, he picked up a fry and pointed it at his company.]
I just opened my mouth and trauma dumped on you, I don't think that really counts as 'private', Edward. [He took a bite out of his impromptu emphasis tool before pointing the bitten off end right back at the older man.] I'm...boring, mostly. At least, I try to be. My family is...loud. Being quiet is kinda nice. If you want to know something, just ask. I'll try to keep the 'poor kid from the Eastside' to a minimum.
Here, I'll even go first. What's your favorite color?
[Pursing his lips at the rebuke, Edward... didn't wrinkle his nose at having a half-eaten fry pointed at him. He did arch an eyebrow at Jason's claim to be boring but offered no further argument, quietly taking in the barest hint of information regarding Jason's family and where the younger man had come from.
The question earned an ever stronger reaction; Edward stared dubiously at Jason and looked down at his bright green button-down. It was a colour the younger man regularly saw him in, to go with his equally green car and phone and the rotation of mugs he kept at his desk. He looked back at Jason with that same dubious stare.]
That's not a serious question, is it? If you're going to ask me something, at least make it interesting. Let me show you how it's done.
[He took a gulp of his energy drink to give himself a moment to consider what to ask. Anything about family would invite the same in return, and Edward was in no hurry to share that mess. It didn't matter that Jason seemed to feel similarly self-conscious over the earlier confession and eager to avoid a repeat. Edward had barely spoken to anyone in Gotham about where he'd come from and what he'd left behind. He wasn't planning on changing that tonight.
Setting his drink down, he pointed at Jason.] What would you ideally do once you graduate if you had the freedom to choose anything you wanted without financial concerns?
[That pointed look followed by an epic level stare had been the entire point, however, and Jason's lopsided grin once more spread out on his lips in triumph. The older man really did give great line face. The hard part was getting the incredulousness without also getting annoyance. But, again, Jason had never been one to shy away from things that were hard.
The awkwardness of his slip up was forgotten in the wake of his asinine question, the tension in the air lessening with each passing moment. Mission accomplished. He rewarded himself with the other half of his fry, waiting patiently for his company to ask his question.
When it finally came, he arched a brow of his own.]
I'd teach. English and literature, not finance. Middle school or maybe high school? It's stupid, I know, but you asked. [He gave a little, one shouldered shrug before picking up his burger for another bite. He wasn't going to be a teacher, but the notion was a nice one.]
If you could drop everything right now and just get on a plane, where would you go?
[Seeing Jason's grin, Edward realised he'd been baited into responding as he had. It was annoying to find himself played so well, eased only by the fact that it had dispelled the tension that had sprung up, and Jason gave a serious answer to his question. In light of that, Edward could overlook the teasing; it wasn't as though he hadn't seen Jason being far less friendly in his jests with others.
Edward listened to Jason's answer, thinking of his past teachers. Most of them had been too underpaid and overworked to want to deal with him, joining the litany of others who'd wanted him to sit down and be silent, but there had briefly been one who'd encouraged him and given him his first taste of programming. Would his schooling have been different if they'd stuck around? It didn't matter any more, but he could see how some would claim the right teacher had an impact on their life for the better.]
Not stupid, I'd say, but maybe a sign of self-destructive impulses. Children are terrible.
[But Jason lived with one and presumably felt differently given the few pictures Edward had found of the younger man online, almost all featuring the young girl.
At Jason's question, he looked down and picked up his burger again.] Egypt. I'd like to see the Sphinx and visit some of the museums. Some of the oldest board games have been found in Egyptian tombs, you know.
[Jason hadn't expressed the expected disdain for his puzzle boxes, but Edward still kept his gaze lowered in case this was a step too far in childishness.] Would you leave Gotham if you could?
[School had always been Jason's respite from his father when he'd been young. It wasn't much, public schools in Gotham were at best absolute garbage, but it had sparked his love of reading. Once he'd moved from public schools to Brentwood, it had been like a whole new world had opened up to him and a lot of that was simply because Brentwood teachers weren't overcrowded to the point of just ignoring their students by default. It wasn't fair, but he could understand it now that he was older. How different his life would have been if just one of his early teachers had taken the time to notice all the red flags of his home life.
He gave another shrug, but his smile softened into something more genuine when Edward didn't immediately shoot down the idea as idiotic.]
Kids can be little jerks, yeah....but some of them are pretty cool. I think you'd probably be able to tolerate Lian. She's basically my niece for all intent and purposes and she can hold better conversations than most adults. Takes after her daddy, for sure, little fucking geniuses, the both of them.
[He rolled his eyes fondly, affection radiating from him as he talked about Roy and Lian. That fond affection lingered as the conversation continued, lighting up anew at Edward's almost shy answer. It was very different than pretty much every other piece of body language that he'd ever seen from the older man and it was endearing to be able to see just a little bit past that snarky, toughened exterior.]
You know, I'm not surprised. Ancient Egyptians were pretty advanced. I would love to try my hand at reading some glyphs. Just settle in with a tablet and a notebook and completely forget the world around me for a few hours while you go off and have riddle games with the Sphinx.
[He wasn't wistful, exactly, but there was a hint of it in his tone. He hadn't lost himself in a language like that since the last time Alfred had given him a book in a completely new language and told him to 'sort it out, lad'. So lost was he in the idea of puzzling through the glyphs that he didn't stop to consider the fact that apparently they were taking this theoretical vacation together.]
I did, actually. I spent about five years overseas as a teenager. Before that, I dreamed of leaving Gotham, but when I finally made it back, I realized I missed it. I might leave again, one day, but if I do, it'll be on my own terms.
What is your idea of the ideal weekend? No work, just two days of whatever you want to do with whoever you want to do it with.
[Edward's dubious expression made it clear he doubted that any child would be tolerable. Jason's clear bias towards the one he lived with made the claim of her capability and intelligence questionable at best. Edward couldn't believe she was that special when Jason was clearly very attached to both child and parent. And for all he'd carefully navigated, making sure there wasn't going to be trouble with Jason's... roommate prior to that first night out, the affection in the younger man's voice still sparked a sharp irritation that he refused to examine further.
Jason was able to lessen that irritation before it could truly fester, Edward smiling faintly at the image of matching wits with the Sphinx.]
I could lend you some books if you want to try your hand at translating some of the tales recovered from different tombs. It's not too dissimilar to code-breaking once you have the key.
[Honestly, Edward wasn't putting any thought into this theoretical vacation they were taking - it was pure fantasy if he were going to be able to engage in a game of riddles with a mythological creature so why not assume everyone they were even a little attached too was also there?]
What is there to miss? The smell? The crowds of small-minded idiots? The complete lack of imagination most people show?
[Edward huffed, waving a hand dismissively. He had come to Gotham from his birthplace and stayed there since but he wouldn't claim to have any affection for the city over anywhere else. What was surprising was that Jason had managed a five-year international trip. Even working to pay for everything whilst travelling, it would have been difficult to manage. But before he could ask, it was his turn to answer again. Leaning back, he considered the question, taking another bite before answering.]
I'd spend the first day working on my personal projects in the company of someone competent enough to understand what I'm doing without feeling the need to stick their nose in. Perhaps we could work on individual projects and then go out in the evening for dinner and a show or to visit a museum. The second day we'd play some games - something intellectually challenging - and I'd stream a game after. In the evening, we'd meet up with friends for a game night.
[Not the most exciting answer, but he doubted Jason would judge him for that. Eyeing the younger man up, Edward abandoned the formula they'd established to ask-] Tell me about your international travels. Five years is a long time for anyone to be overseas as a teenager.
[In Edward's defense, most people that saw Roy and Jason interacting just assumed that the two were either already a couple or would be soon. Many people, Jason's own family included, still didn't believe him when he said that he slept on the couch and didn't, in fact, share Roy's bed. They were close, comfortable with each other in a way that most men were uncomfortable showing.
For all of that, he'd assured Edward that they were just friends and that wasn't a lie. The red head was more his brother than some of his actual brothers were, plus Roy had dated his older brother. It would be weird.]
Hey, if I had the time I would very much take you up on that offer. I love it and I want to say yes...but I also know that it would take me forever with my schedule what it is. I don't want to take your book for that long. The offer is very much appreciated, though. Thank you.
[He smiled, the expression lingering as he listened to the description of what sounded like a wonderful weekend.]
Honestly, that sounds so nice. Very peaceful and relaxing. Add in a pot of hot tea and a good book and I'd be sold on that exact weekend.
[No judgement, then. Maybe even a little wishful thinking, if his little wistful smile could be trusted. The smile was short lived, however, fading almost completely at the older man's follow up question.
He bought himself some time to think by taking a big bite of his burger, but then he was glancing up at his company with a little shrug.]
That is a very messy answer, actually. I don't want to make you uncomfortable again, but I also don't want you to think I'm hiding anything, cause I'm not.
The most sanitized version is: I got in a fight with my adoptive dad when I was fifteen. Ended up going to stay with a living biological relative. It was a mistake and I regret ever going, but I can't change what I did. I eventually got home and got my life back together. There is...a lot more to it, but that's the reader's digest version.
If you want to know more, you can ask me and I'll tell you, but I also don't blame you at all if you don't want to know more.
[He smirked, but the expression wasn't a kind one and he quickly took another bite to cover it.]
You stream games? Like on Twitch? What do you play?
[So long as there wasn't trouble with Jason's roommate as a result of their arrangement, Edward was mostly willing to ignore any doubts he had over Jason's claim to just be friends. He had no reason to care, and if he continued to ignore the irritation at the way Jason spoke about this Roy, it would go away.
He nodded at Jason's refusal of his offer, not surprised by it. He knew how busy the younger man was - that they were there, eating a leisurely meal together was a surprise, let alone anything more than that. Much as he wasn't surprised, Jason appreciated the prospect of a peaceful weekend too.]
Somehow, I'm not at all surprised by that last addition.
[The more he saw of Jason, the more he was surprised; the younger man didn't have his nose in a book more often.
That amusement faded quickly at Jason's response to his question. Edward frowned, wondering if he was going to be told he'd overstepped again, but surprisingly, that wasn't the case. He listened quietly as Jason spoke, weighing up the words and taking his time to think after the younger man had fallen silent again. He was curious about the details but it was easy to see that it hadn't been a good or easy time for Jason. There were unpleasant memories there, and this wasn't the place for unloading dark personal secrets - if there was ever going to be an appropriate time and place. Edward was in no hurry to share certain personal details either, so he tilted his head at Jason in quiet understanding.]
I see. Well, there will be future opportunities to escape Gotham if you choose to.
[Given the awkwardness of the moment, he was eager to latch onto Jason's next question, scoffing and looking down his nose at Jason with exaggerated disdain.]
Obviously, on Twitch, what else would I use? Kick? I'm better than that. [Even if his subscriber count wasn't that high. He couldn't stream regularly enough for that.] I like anything that's a challenge. Puzzle games are the best - the Talos Principle games, and I've demonstrated some of the levels I've created for Portal 2 before. And the good Souls-like games - as well as the genre's progenitors, naturally. I've been looking at virtual reality, too, but there aren't a lot of games yet that use the platform in an interesting way - I have some ideas for puzzle games that would be an ideal fit, but that's all they are so far.
[Realising he was rambling a little, Edward took a quick bite of his burger, trying not to sound too invested when he asked-] Do you play any games?
[Relief eased through the younger man's shoulders as Edward seemed to accept his answer. He could almost see the temptation chasing itself through that brilliant brain, but if Edward hadn't reacted well to Jason's early childhood meal times, he certainly wasn't going to be enthused with teenage rebellion lead blackmail.
Though, that wasn't really fair to him. He hadn't been the one doing the blackmailing.
His thoughts threatened to spiral, to drag him down into those old memories like an anchor...but the older man's obvious joy about gaming was a balm to his heart and it was almost easy to smile as he picked through a few more fries. His past held no edge against that level of joy about something and he was grateful.]
I have no idea what 'kick' is, so I'm glad you're on Twitch. What's your name? Maybe I'll have some time to look you up. Watch you while you play.
[He was smiling, but he wasn't teasing. He was being as honest as he knew how to be, actually. The idea of pulling up one of Edward's streams after he stopped being able to see the man in person was actually a little nice. Like maybe he wouldn't have to let go of the man completely.]
I do, but probably nothing you'd play. Lian has picked up Mario Kart and has taken to completely kicking my ass for a match or two before bedtime. My brother got me to play Hades and that was fun. Oh! Actually, I have played Bloodborne. That's a Souls-like game, right? I died. A lot. But I have played it. Umm...I watched Roy play Skyrim, does that count?
[His smirk made it clear that he knew it didn't count at all, but he couldn't quite help the tease.]
[The expected ignorance was still met with another exaggerated scoff as if Jason should rightly know every streaming platform online. He was younger than Edward, so he should have been knowledgeable about these things. If he had the time for it anyway.
Edward equally doubted Jason would be spending any time watching his streams, the question likely born from politeness and a desire to stay on Edward's good side during their arrangement. But he still hesitated before answering, wondering if Jason would see through the username.]
It's ENygma. With a y. [He'd thought about legally changing his name so many times but never had. It was hard to explain why when part of him wanted that distance from where he'd been - who he'd been - so badly. He'd filled out the paperwork more than once and wound up shredding it each time. Whether it was from some foolish illusion that he could go back to where he'd grown up one day and show his parents how wrong they'd been about him or concern over his new name not being taken seriously, he couldn't say, Whatever the reasoning and as unwise as it was, Jason would find the same username across multiple platforms all with a familiar face behind them if he cared to check. It was a name Edward had some attachment to, unofficial as it was.
Those concerns aside, he returned Jason's smile, brightening further at the games named.]
You and your brother have good taste even if your skills need improvement. [Which answered that question, as did Edward's huff.] Watching doesn't count. And Skyrim isn't challenging unless you don't know how to handle bugs. You need better entertainment.
[So maybe Jason would watch one of his streams after all... Would he appear in the chat? Edward would... not be keeping a closer-than-usual eye on it when he next streamed, but he would make sure to call out any newcomers. Just in case.]
I don't have a particular favourite book. I like a good mystery, but once you've solved it, there's no excitement in revisiting the story. The same goes for anything I've already read. What's the point if I know how it's going to end? There are some science fiction writers who present interesting ideas to grapple with, but I've never read their works more than once, either. [He shrugged, looking at Jason wryly.] A disappointing answer for you, I'm sure.
[He was younger, yes, but it had already been well established that he was more than a little social media ignorant. And that, until very recently, his schedule had been far too full for breakfast, let alone keeping up with said social media. There was a reason that most of his siblings and their father just let the PR department of WE deal with all of that.
Technically, he did have a page...but it was old and hadn't been updated since he'd starting using Todd over Wayne. No doubt the PR reps spun it and his lack of appearance at in person social events on his desire for privacy after the scandal of his time overseas and the resulting legal issues it caused.]
ENyg- [He cut himself off, a slow grin forming as he rolled the name around in his mouth a few times.] I see what you did there. Very clever, I like it. It suits you, Mr Puzzlebox.
[He had every intention of going home and figuring out how to use Twitch. It would cut into his cooking time but that was a sacrifice he was willing to make.
At the answer to his question, Jason nodded along...at least until the end. Then he frowned a little and sat up to reach for his lemonade.]
Not disappointing at all, actually. It's an issue when you have an eidetic memory. My brother --Hades, not Bloodborne-- has the same issue. He can rewatch comfort shows and movies, but not reread books. That doesn't stop you from enjoying a book, just means that rereading it doesn't hold the same joy for you. And there's nothing wrong with that.
I'm kinda the opposite. Rewatching shows or movies is boring unless it's something with a lot of depth, but rereading a favorite book feels like wrapping up in a favorite blanket. [For a moment, he considered leaving it there. After all, Edward hadn't asked a question. It didn't seem fair, though, and after a moment, he cleared his throat and gave a little one shouldered shrug.]
Anything written by Austen. Unless you're talking poetry, then it's Wild Geese by Mary Oliver.
[As someone who thrived on attention, Edward couldn't imagine not keeping on top of social media. Whether it was as the mysterious puzzle box maker who teased his little community with challenges or as himself streaming and posting about games, riddles, and trivia, he needed that engagement, no matter whether it brought him hatred or admiration. It was an endless source of frustration that people like the Waynes could garner so much more attention than him with a single post. Oh, the entire family were easy on the eyes; he wasn't blind, but there was never so much as a mildly challenging logic puzzle on any of their pages. Such a waste.
A little ball of tension sitting in his chest dissolved at Jason's grin, and Edward puffed up, oddly proud to hear the younger man thought the name suited him.] I needed something more fitting for my audience to use.
[Edward tilted his head as Jason mentioned the brother again - it was taking actual effort to keep himself from digging into the details of Jason's life, why, despite clearly having a decent relationship with this brother, the only things he knew about them was that they had decent taste in games and an eidetic memory. Jason hadn't shared as this was nothing but a job for him, but that didn't make Edward less curious.]
Mm, it is a burden. I can see why he enjoys roguelikes when they're not too repetitive. [He smiled as Jason answered the unasked question. Like many things about the younger man, the answer wasn't one most would guess to look at him. It was charming and intriguing how unexpected almost everything Edward learned about his companion was.] I've never been much of one for poetry. Perhaps you should pick something you think I'd like.
[He was curious what, if anything, Jason might choose.] Nor am I well-versed in Ms Austen's works - except for one. She wrote some appreciable riddles in Emma.
[Unsurprisingly, that was the main reason he'd picked up the book in question.]
What is one skill you don't possess but would most like to?
[It was the greatest difference between them, honestly. Not the age gap or the perceived wage gap. Not the differences in their intelligence or education. No, the biggest hurdle they had was that Jason had long ago reached the limit on how much attention he wanted. It was why he wasn't saying more about his siblings, because his family was almost always on the front page of some gossip rag or another. Between Dick's career as a cop, Bruce's randomly appearing mixed race son, and Tim just all out dropping out of high school out of sheer boredom, so many things could be used to find out who they were.
And, through them, who he was. At least in the eyes of the public media. Never mind that he wasn't that person or that none of them were the people that were painted in those stories....the public didn't want to see the real people behind the Wayne name. They wanted their celebrity personas and nothing else. Jason had left it as soon as he'd been able to. It meant that he didn't see his family nearly as often as he wanted to, but they could still keep in contact.
Of course, none of his family knew about Edward. That would have been a disaster in and of itself.]
Emma was good, I enjoyed it. Pride and Prejudice will always hold a very special place in my heart, but that shouldn't come as any surprise. Mr. Darcy was my first crush.
[He grinned, holding a hand over his heart and pretending to swoon a little before he relaxed and tilted his head a little.] I'd love to be able to write. Really write. Any time I try, I can never translate what is in my head to paper.
But, one skill I'm not half bad at, is guessing what people might like. And I think I got something you'll appreciate.
[He pulled out his phone and spent a moment looking for something, then grinned and licked his lips. When he spoke again, it was with the rhythmic cadence of someone reciting.]
Know then thyself, presume not God to scan; The proper study of Mankind is Man. Placed on this isthmus of a middle state, A Being darkly wise, and rudely great: With too much knowledge for the Sceptic side, With too much weakness for the Stoic's pride, He hangs between; in doubt to act, or rest; In doubt to deem himself a God, or Beast; In doubt his mind and body to prefer; Born but to die, and reas'ning but to err; Whether he thinks to little, or too much; Chaos of Thought and Passion, all confus'd; Still by himself, abus'd or disabus'd; Created half to rise and half to fall; Great Lord of all things, yet a prey to all, Sole judge of truth, in endless error hurl'd; The glory, jest and riddle of the world.
[He took a sip of lemonade after he finished up, arching a brow as he leaned back in his seat.]
[Edward chuckled at Jason's confession and choice of fictional crush.]
Was he? And what appealed most to you about him, hm?
[He tried to picture a young Jason curled over a book, blushing at what was on the page, but the image kept turning to the grown man before him. It was still an endearing image.
Tilting his head at the answer, Edward was about to probe further when Jason claimed to have that recommendation already. He waved his hand in a 'go ahead' motion, waiting quietly and picking at his fries as Jason looked up whatever poem had come to mind. When the younger man began his recitation, Edward stilled, listening to the words thoughtfully.
He was quiet as Jason finished and took a drink, a faint smile offering an answer before he spoke.]
You were right. You are good at guessing what people like to hear. [He chuckled.] An excellent riddle you chose.
[It was surprising that Jason could read him that well, given the nature of their relationship. One dinner hardly seemed enough to have such an understanding of him, but then, Edward hadn't been the one playing a part in their other engagements. No more than the one he wore whilst working, and it was a flimsy mask at that.]
Do you do that often, make recommendations?
[It was a fitting skill for someone who would like to be a teacher if he could.]
Lalala~ I totally didn't lose this in the midst of everything else~!
[Was it so surprising that Jason had read him that well? After all, it wasn't Edward who put up a front for most of the time they were together. Sure, there was a difference between the man sitting across from him and the man at the office party, but not nearly as much of one as he might like to think.
Sharp-witted, brilliant, a little bit narcissistic. The smartest man in the room and well aware of that fact. But still...awkward. Uninvited to join the close circle of co-workers, even if he'd wanted to, so he made it a point to never want to. To bring someone in to show off that he didn't have to join that circle because he had one of his own.
Sometimes being raised by a man who devoted his life to being a detective was a detriment for his social regulation.
Smirking a little, he shrugged his shoulder as he reached out to set his drink back down.]
I try not to, but I still somehow manage to make every single one of my siblings groan if I so much as suggest a book to them. Well, not every one. Dami has been spared. I moved out before he came around.
[He was from the system, right? Surely having a sibling 'come around' instead of simply being born was understandable, right?]
I read with Lian, though. She's a good chunk of the way through the Narnia series. I helped her pick it out a while ago and we read through the first couple together, but she's pretty much just reading to me now.
[He didn't bother trying to hide his proud smile as he finished off the last of his burger.]
[Jason could only have read him so well if the younger man had been paying attention to Edward during all those past events - more attention than he'd realised. More attention than a simple performance required. That was the surprising part.
It wasn't that Edward hadn't been paying attention to Jason as well, but the younger man was something of a mystery, so of course, his attention had been held. Jason kept surprising him at every turn, never what Edward expected, even after spending time around him. It was only tonight, with their impromptu mutual questioning, that he was getting the answers to some of those mysteries.
Such as hearing Jason talk about those siblings, including one adopted after his departure. Idly, Edward wondered at this adoptive father that, for all Jason had had a falling out with the man, clearly wasn't so terrible as many foster families in Gotham. And outside of Gotham. He didn't have to have ever been part of the system himself to know that.]
If they don't care to read, that's a failure on their part.
[Was it acceptable to criticise someone's siblings? He didn't know, but it was true. Edward at least knew to hold his tongue when it came to the child Jason cared for so much, only humming in acknowledgement.
Abandoning the last of his burger and fries, Edward drained the final dregs of his energy drink, glancing at his watch as he set the empty can down. Jason was no doubt eager to get home to the child and her father soon. Carefully wiping his hands on a napkin, he glanced around for a staff member to wave down for the bill.]
Well, this has been a pleasant diversion. [There wasn't any sarcasm in the words either, as there was when he expressed similar sentiments to most others.] I expect you're ready for your night alone in the kitchen now.
[He pulled out his phone to pay for their meal, feeling somehow both reinvigorated and disappointed that the night was coming to an end.]
[Acceptable or not, Jason still chuckled at Edward's calling out of his siblings. He was right, after all, and Jason had told them something similar to their faces. It didn't matter, but it still felt nice that the older man was on his side. Felt nice to talk about them at all, actually. It wasn't often that he felt comfortable enough with someone to speak about them even a little.
It left him feeling very isolated, most of the time. It was nice to be able to open up the part of himself that no one else ever got to see.]
A failure I tell them about every chance I get, believe me.
[Popping the last of his fries into his mouth, he hummed and nodded in agreement. It had been a pleasant diversion, even the parts where Jason had overstepped and shoved his own foot in his mouth.]
Oh, I don't know about being 'ready' to get home to my empty kitchen, but it's something that should be done. I don't mind cooking during the week, but cooking with Lian takes about twice as long as cooking alone does and some nights I have way more homework than time.
[He smirked, wiping his mouth with his napkin before shifting to reach into his pocket, pulling out his aging leather wallet and pulling a couple of bills from it.]
Jason's laughter followed them through the city as the older man lead the way over rooftops. It wasn't a sound that many people had heard in recent years, and Tim had managed to coax it out of him twice in one night. Dick would be jealous, Bruce would be suspicious, but Jason was just enjoying the rare bit of levity.
Eventually, the run ended on a fire escape, the metal oddly stable considering how hard Jason's bulk hit it. Any other fire escape in his part of the city would have shuddered and creaked, rust flaking off weathered bolts, but this one barely twitched. The window was armed and a fake brick shifted away under Jason's touch so he could key in a code. There was a chirp and Jason slid the brick back into place before sliding the window open on well oiled tracks.
Inside was dark, but they were both well used to the dark. Tim ended up climbing into a living room, not barren and barely furnished like most of Jason's safehouses, but comfortable looking and decorated. Bookshelves lined most of the wall space, an overstuffed couch in the center of the space. Where most people would put a TV he had a desk with a computer set up, though the screen was large enough and the space small enough that he could probably scroll through Netflix with a wireless mouse. Art dotted what wall space wasn't claimed by books and Tim might recognize a couple as Damian's.
This wasn't a safehouse. This was his apartment. His home. The place no other Bat even knew existed, let alone had ever been inside.
Jason himself had crossed the space and rounded the bar into his kitchen, setting the bag of food on the counter before he reached up to thumb the hidden latch that let his helmet pop open enough to slide off his head. His hair was mussed but he was grinning as he set the helmet aside and shrugged out of his jacket.
"Thanks. I've been working on it for a while. Slow going between the shelters, clinics, and the night job. Take off your cape, stay awhile."
The place really did suit Jason, once Tim paused to look around. Especially the books, there were so many titles that he'd have guessed the older vigilante was into, and maybe a couple that Tim might tease him about later. Damian's art softened his smile, pleased that the two of them had enough of a bond that Jason would display it. The tiniest little hint of jealousy sparked in his chest that nothing in the room had anything to do with him, but what would Jason even have done? Displayed mathematical equations? He just--he didn't want to be on the same level as Dick and Bruce.
As he took on the space, though, it slowly dawned on him that he hadn't been taken to some safehouse that would end up ditched in a few months. Jason trusted Tim enough to take him to his actual home. His heart stuttered almost painfully in his chest as he forced himself to suck in a breath. It nearly overwhelmed him for a second, being given such an important gift. Was it even done consciously, or had Jason come to trust him so much he didn't second guess the idea?
Okay, so he was definitely wrong about being on the same level as Dick and Bruce. There was no way those two knew about Jason's apartment, and Tim immediately told himself he'd die before he ever told them about its location. This was special. He was going to hold onto it like the rarest gem.
As his gaze finally turned back to the older man, Tim saw him standing there relaxed and smiling, sans jacket and helmet. The faintest of flushes bloomed onto his cheeks, but he didn't let the sight distract him for long. Instead, his own hands moved to work on stripping as much of his suit off as he could. Practiced, skilled fingers disabled traps and unhooked latches. His cape, the gloves, the belt, his staff, anything other than the skin tight kevlar was peeled off and politely set aside on a chair. There was a moment when he debated taking his top off as well, but it felt out of line to even ask if he could just hang around shirtless while visiting someone's apartment for the first time. Pity he didn't have any civvies.
"I can pour some drinks if you show me where the stuff is?" The younger of the two offered, stepping away from where he'd left most of his gear behind.
While Tim was peeling himself out of Red Robin, Jason was continuing to do the same. His heavy utility belt was connected to his holsters, so the the who bundle of tactical weave was slipped off his thighs and set aside with his helmets. Surely the kitchen counter wasn't where all this stuff was supposed to go, but there didn't seem to be a specific space set aside for it. At least, not where Tim could easily see.
"That is a great idea, but first let's shove this shit somewhere we don't have to look at it for the rest of the night. Come on, it's just upstairs." The secret wasn't going to remain secret for long, it would seem. And, apparently, Tim was welcome to stay long enough to make hanging his gear a viable option. Gathering up the discarded pieces of his kit, not bothering to take off the thick armor that protected his torso. It would be easier to transport it on him.
Leading the way down the short hall, he ignored the two open doors. The one to the right was a bathroom, while the corner of an unmade bed could be spotted through the door that was at the end of the hall. To the left, however, was a small set of stairs leading up and it was those stairs that Jason took.
Bruce had his Cave. Tim had his Nest. Jason, it seemed, had the upstairs apartment. It wasn't fancy or high tech, but it had room to do his weapon and armor maintenance. It also looked like it had roof access, which meant that Jason could have just brought Tim in this way instead of down into his main apartment.
Heading over to the table, he set down the gear in his arms before gesturing over at a couple of armor stands. "Feel free to hang him up to air out. As long as you don't mind stuff that is going to be way too big, there are civvies in the drawers. Bathroom is in that back corner if you want to shower. Don't take too long, if we let the garlic knots cool down, Nan will kick my ass later."
sorry it's so long, but, yk, ~~feelings~~ please don't feel like you gotta match!
The rest of the night? Tim paused, blinking stupidly for a moment. Apparently this would not be a quick dinner and a drink. Jason must have wanted to spend some time with him, to offer to let him hang his gear. A little thrill went straight to his belly, and he quickly gathered his things so he could follow along behind the older man obediently.
As they entered the top floor he took a moment to appreciate the base that had been set up there. Tim was all about tech, hadn't wanted to lose his access to a super computer and crime lab when he moved out of the manor. Also, he was a giant nerd that lived for that sort of thing. There was a simplicity, though, in not having to worry about all of that. He allowed himself to take a good look around as he moved over to a stand and hung up the pieces that he stripped off. His boots were set next to it and his gaze turned to the shower. Whether or not Jason was aware of his little idiosyncrasies, he was thrilled at having them respected.
"I'll be quick." Tim promised, grabbing for some clothes from the drawer and making a bee-line for the bathroom that was tucked away. The kevlar was stripped off and set on a counter out of the way. As soon as the water was warm he ducked under it, quickly scrubbing away the sweat and grime that came with the job. He'd never been the type to luxuriate in long showers. They were a means to an end that got him clean.
The civvies were too big on him. He tied the pajama pants around his waist so they wouldn't slide off, and tugged on a t-shirt that seemed to dwarf him. As he toweled his dark hair dry, Tim caught a look at himself in the mirror. Immediately his cheeks flushed and there were tingles everywhere that cloth touched his skin. Jason's clothes. It wasn't at all an intimate thing to let a fellow vigilante borrow some civvies so they didn't sit around in their sweaty gear, yet the sight managed to strike Tim deep in his core, right in the spot that had always been desperate to belong to someone.
Fuck. Fuck.
It hadn't mattered how much he told himself not to do this, not to feel this way, he... he had never gotten over his thing for Jason, had he? Everything had started as a dumb elementary school crush, developed over nights of sneaking out to get pictures of Robin. The most amazing side-kick that had ever existed, the one who did a goofy little wave when he saw Tim and his dumb camera. Even when the guy had tried to kill him (more than once), it had never been quite enough to fully silence the stupid flutter in his chest. And as he got to know this Jason, the adult he'd grown into, it reignited those feelings into an inferno.
So, he was fucked.
Tim carefully hung the towel back on the rack and stepped back out of the bathroom, bare feet padding gently on the floor as he made his way to hang up the rest of his suit. Then he headed for wherever it was that Jason was waiting for him, looking a little more vulnerable than when he left.
Never apologize for novels. XD I love them! Also, TW for injury and medical shit.
He didn't not know about Tim's need to shower after patrol. He had spent many a month stalking him back in time before his ill-fated attempt at a homecoming. He didn't know the exact source or even the extent of it, but he understood the need to have a ritual to separate the vigilante from the person.
He had his own, after all. Tim didn't take long in the shower, but in that short amount of time Jason had been busy with his own. He'd gone through his weapons, checking them over, cleaning any that he'd fired. He'd reloaded his clips and made sure that his load outs were in easy grabbing distance. His blades had an oiled cloth ran over them before he'd hung them back on the peg board. His helmet and armor were set up on their own stand, along with his holsters, gloves, and boots.
By the time that Tim came out of the bathroom, he'd stripped off his under layer and was in the process of stapling a small knife slash on his side shut. He preferred stitches but the angle made sewing himself up almost impossible, so three neat staples would have to do. It would scar more, but what was one more? His torso was already a collage of pain and injury, between the flash burns that dripped along his back to the thick Y-shaped incision that bisected his chest and stomach. Blades, gunshots, blunt force ripping- all of them had a place on his skin. One more knife wound would just fade into the narrative.
He caught sight of Tim as he was twisting to align a tegaderm dressing over the small wound and he sucked in a small breath. Tim was wearing his clothes. He'd known that, of course. He'd offered them. He'd fully been preparing himself to see the lithe man come out of the bathroom in them.
He hadn't prepared nearly enough.
"I.." What was he trying to say? He'd had something, something about letting him finish putting the dressing on and then he'd take a quick shower and then they could eat, but that single word was all that came out.
Really, it shouldn't have been a surprise when the thin plastic dressing crumpled in his suddenly clumsy fingers, sticking to itself and making Jason startle out of his stare to frown at it. "Well, shit."
If Jason was looking at Tim any differently, it wasn't immediately picked up on. No, his eyes were drawn to the wound he hadn't even been aware of. It wasn't in his nature to fuss too much over a small wound, they got them all of the time in their line of work, but a little frown twitched onto his features before he could stop it. "If you had said something I would have stitched you up." The younger of the two told him as he stepped closer, helping himself to Jason's medical kit without waiting for any sort of permission. Clearly he just wasn't used to having someone around that could help. "Here, let me put the bandage on."
As he grabbed for a disinfecting wipe, it occurred to him that perhaps Jason hadn't said anything because he didn't want any help. But, well, too bad. Tim could be just as stubborn as the rest of the Bats, if not worse. Still, he did his best to be gentle as he wiped down the wound. Jason might have already taken care of it, but it didn't hurt to have it cleaned up a second time before it was bandaged. Staph infections were the reason behind his insistence on showering off right after patrol; he wasn't going to lose Jason to one. Even if it got him bitched at.
The scars weren't terribly shocking to him. Not even the autopsy scar, as much as it different from anything on his own body. That made sense. Jason had died, of course they would perform an autopsy, but he wouldn't have felt it. Others must have been the result so much misfortune and pain. Tim felt empathy, sure, but more than that, they made him admire Jason all the more. The scars were a roadmap to the suffering he had endured in order to do what he felt was right. They didn't always agree on what that meant or the methods used to get there, but he never doubted the man's passion. It wasn't Tim's place to trace those scars with his fingertips, but he gazed at them with an open curiosity as he carefully smoothed the tegaderm over the stapled wound.
"There." Time seemed to slow down around him when he lifted his eyes to peer up at Jason again. There was something different about the way the other man was looking back at him. Tim wasn't sure exactly what it was, but he knew what his foolish heart was hoping for. God, it was so much easier to have feelings from someone from afar. When everything was so out of reach it wasn't worth dwelling on. Were they actually any closer now, though? Did Jason even like men? Even if he did, would he want Tim, of all people? The guy that he'd spent a not insignificant amount of time hating? He was just so bad at this. Didn't even know what to do with himself. "Did you get hurt anywhere else?" This time, when he spoke, his voice was softer. Like if he was too loud, he might wake and realize the whole thing had been some sort of dream.
He didn't even realize he hadn't pulled his hand away from Jason's side. Just kept looking up at him with so many different feelings swirling in his eyes like galaxies rotating through space.
The thing was, Jason had never really hated Tim. Not as a person, anyway. He'd hated the fact that Bruce had given Robin to someone else. He'd been jealous of exactly how well Tim had worked alongside the stoic man. Jealous of his brilliance and how much better he was at being Robin than Jason had ever been.
Jason had been all exuberant energy and unending drive to help people, but he'd never really been a detective. Not like Bruce or Dick and certainly not like Tim. He wasn't dumb, he knew that, but things that took Dick or Tim only seconds to connect his brain didn't see the connection for a minute. Tim had been the Robin that he could never have been, even if he hadn't died. He'd hated the idea that even if he had come home after that trip, Bruce probably still would have replaced him. He'd been a better son than partner.
At least, he'd thought. The batarang scar on his throat seemed to tell him otherwise every time he saw it in a mirror.
Tim stepped in close and helped himself to the oversized medical kit he'd spread out over the table. His stomach twisted and tightened in a way that had nothing to do with the sharp sting of antiseptic and everything to do with the fact that he could smell his own shampoo mingling with the undertones that had to be just Tim. He was still as the younger boy worked, letting himself be poked and prodded and finally bandaged...and then the distraction of his wound was gone and all that was left was the heat of Tim's hand soaking into his side. His eyes like crystalline lasers, making his very being twitch to be perceived so completely. His own cornflower blue eyes flicked down to trace full lips...and in doing so, the faint scar on Tim's neck caught his attention and doused him in ice cold reality.
He'd left that scar. He couldn't even remember exactly which time it was that he'd left it, but he knew that he had. He'd left that scar without a second thought and Pit influences be damned, he'd done it with intent. At the time, he'd been so out of his own mind with manipulated anger and absolutely no control of his own emotional regulation....but he'd still done it. The Pit had done a lot to him, but it hadn't ever forced his hand.
Pulling away, he rubbed at the back of his neck as he moved to cross the room and put space between them.
"Nah, I'm fine. Thanks, though. I'm...I'm gunna shower real quick and then we can head back downstairs. I didn't lock anything if you want to not wait for me." He grabbed clothes as he spoke, then closed the bathroom door almost before his last sentence was finished.
For a moment there, Tim had thought Jason was going to kiss him. He canted his head and leaned in just a fraction of an inch to try to encourage it. Just like that, Jason was gone. Trying to get as far away from him as possible. The cold hand of disappointment reached around his heart and squeezed painfully. It was such a small thing, not even really a full on rejection, but it still stung in a way that was beyond his understanding. Why was he so disappointed?
Some sort of response bubbled in his throat, but he didn't manage to get anything out before the door closed between them. Tim took a moment, physically shaking it off like a dog after a bath. Shut down any possible thought of just going for it as soon as Jason was close enough again. Just so he could know for sure and stop having to dwell on it in the back of his mind. Rejection would be easier than not knowing. Then he could tell the little voice in the back of his head to shut up. But this was supposed to be bonding time, and he couldn't let his feelings make him do anything that could ruin it. The wrong move could sever everything the two had worked towards to be able to get along and work together.
It was hard to trust himself to behave when every cell in his body with singing with desire for him. Tim, who always had complete control over his emotions, who never let this sort of thing get in the way--he was floundering.
He didn't go anywhere. It didn't feel right to explore Jason's place in his absence, even as nosy as he was. Besides, it would be rude to go eat without him, especially when he'd been nice enough to let Tim shower off first. One of his hands reached to rub at his arm and his toes curled awkwardly against the floor. They just needed to eat, have a drink, and everything would be okay. He was determined to make everything okay.
In the bathroom, Jason was fighting to keep himself even. He had almost kissed Tim. He'd wanted to. Had been wanting to, if he stopped to really think about it. He'd wanted to kiss those snarky, slightly chapped lips for longer than he cared to admit. And, he was pretty sure that Tim had wanted to kiss him back.
But how could he? How could anyone want to kiss someone like him? He was dead, for fuck's sake. Sure, he was better now, but it was all just borrowed time and he was under absolutely no delusions of out living the job. He was going to go down exactly like he did the first time and, more importantly, that was the death he deserved.
He was not a good person. Maybe he never had been, but he certainly wasn't now. He was trying to be better, trying to not let his anger overwhelm everything until all he knew was green...but it was hard and it was slow and he didn't deserve to kiss someone like Tim. Someone he'd hurt time and time again, not on accident but on purpose. With intent. He'd been aiming for his knife to sink into that elegant throat, why the hell did he think he had a right to caress it now instead?
Crossing over to the shower, he twisted the knob as hot as he could stand it, then twisted just a little bit more. The heat was quick to bite into his skin but he didn't let himself hiss as he stepped into the spray. He washed methodically and completely, letting the burn of the heat drive away the image of Tim looking up at him like he had been, all hopeful blue eyes and trust.
By the time the shower stopped, steam was leaking out from under the door. His skin was bright pink and a little shiny, steam coming off his red shoulders and wet hair. The towel scraped against sensitive skin, so he dried off enough to not drip before he pulled on a pair of sweats and the loose, comfortable t-shirt he'd grabbed. There was still steam in his hair when the bathroom door opened, but he was at least a little more settled in his own skin.
His smile was still haunted on his lips, however, so he kept it small so that Tim hopefully wouldn't notice.
"All clean. Ready for some food? I have some beers in the fridge, I think. Tequila, if you want it. I'm probably going to stick to Zesti, though."
Asking Tim not to notice even the smallest of changes was like asking a wolf not to hunt. His skilled eye was innate, honed by years of training under Bruce. Even if he hadn't seen that there was something off with Jason's facial expression, the sudden shift from wanting to be bought a drink to avoiding alcohol set off a red flag in Tim's brain. The pink skin and the steam from his hair hair didn't get past him, either. Pieces started to click together in his brain and the only conclusion he could arrive at was that something had gone wrong between his shower and the one Jason took. To the point that the ability for the rest of their night to be tolerable was hanging on by a thread.
His first instinct was to get the hell out of dodge. Emotions? Talking through things? Neither were Tim's strong suit. He wasn't Dick Grayson, couldn't go around hugging everyone too tight and demanding they say how they feel. Despite that, though, he didn't try to make an excuse to leave or bite his lip and following along silently. He wasn't timid or a fragile little waif unable to handle situations head on when the need called for it. A Robin who acted that way was bound to have been eaten alive.
Jason was unhappy with him. Had he realized that Tim had been close to leaning in for a kiss and felt disgusted? God, he didn't want to believe that. If the kiss thing was mostly in his head anyway, maybe Jason hadn't even realized it almost happened. It was about the bandaging, then. Tim must have misunderstood what he perceived as them having bonded and overstepped a line Jason felt was important. Fine. He could handle this. Then the rest of the night would go smoother.
The younger of the two steeled himself, took a breath and set his shoulders. "Honestly, I'd rather have a Zesti, but that's not the point." One of his hands waved as if brushing that off. Anxiety fizzled through his veins, but that was hardly a new feeling for him. He'd survive. "Jason, if you're mad about me helping bandage you, I--" A small snort, because he wasn't about to lie to try to make things easier. "I'm not going to apologize for it. I know I probably should have waited for you to say it was okay, but you needed help. If we're going to work together on things, you have to be willing to let me lend a hand. I know you don't like me much, but I want you to feel like you can trust me." At the last bit, his voice softened.
Avoidance, thy name is Bat. With the exception of one Richard Grayson, the entire clan was terrible at the whole 'emotions' thing. Bruce because he was Bruce, Tim because he'd spent his entire life with the housekeepers, and Jason because all emotions ever did was get him in trouble. His dad would beat him for them, Bruce would lecture him if he let his emotions override the 'right' thing to do. Talia wasn't much better, though she'd tried a little harder than she probably wanted to.
He watched Tim steel himself, watched those bright blue eyes harden...and he frowned. "Bandage? What are you talking about, Timbers? Why would I be mad at you for helping me with a bandage?" Confusion was thick in his voice...but then he was thinking back to how lost Tim had looked as he'd ran to hide in the bathroom and suddenly things made a little more sense.
Well, shit.
Sighing, the older man scrubbed at his pink face with his hands, coaxing just a little more sharp ache out of the heated skin before he let his arms drop.
"I'm not mad at you and I do like you, so just wipe that stupidity right out of your head. I just...I tried to kill you, Tim. A lot. Got pretty damned close to it, too. I figured you wouldn't want me that close to you without a muzzle."
An extended silence passed between the two of them when Tim came to understand what the problem actually was. Wow, had he been on completely the wrong track. Usually he wasn't that far off the mark. Just went to show how deep emotions were still quite foreign to him.
There was caution in each step he took to get closer to Jason, but now he felt like there was a point to prove. "I'm not afraid of you, Jason. I like being near you." Tim paused just in front of him, and stared up at him with those big blue eyes of his again. "I can defend myself. I'm smart enough to know who I can trust. A lot of what happened went down the way it did because you were being manipulated, or trauma and the pit made you think it was an okay way to deal with your anger."
His hand reached forward to rest against Jason's bicep, establishing physical touch between the two of them. Nothing overwhelming, but there and solid and real. "Even if none of that was true, it wouldn't even matter. Because if I tried to punch you right now, I genuinely believe you'd do your best not to fight back too hard because you don't want to hurt me anymore." He couldn't help the little smirk that reappeared on his face. "And because I think you know I could kick your ass these days."
He was tense. Tense from the moment Tim started moving closer, but even more so when Tim's hand settled on his arm. He wasn't tense because he didn't want it...he was tense because he did. Because it was all he'd ever really wanted, honestly. To be accepted as he was now instead of how he'd been as a literal child or how he'd been when he'd first gotten back to Gotham and his brain was fucked with.
And then Tim just had to go and sass and Jason's tension released with a surprised bark of laughter. It broke the heaviness in the air cleanly and completely and Jason offered a fond, lopsided smile to the younger man before he reached out to lightly knock his knuckles against Tim's bony shoulder.
"You couldn't kick my ass if I was blindfolded and handcuffed, pipsqueak. Come on, lets go shove some food in our faces and maybe pull up a movie? Gotta let those Zestis settle before you drive and all that." He was playful, but there was an undertone of gratitude under the flippant tone. He recognized better than most exactly how hard it was for any of them to really talk about things like that, so for Tim to dig down for that little speech...it had to mean something.
Something like maybe Tim really was comfortable with him. And maybe that was a bad idea, but Jason hoped that it wasn't.
"You better watch yourself, Jason Todd. Don't forget I beat Lady Shiva and KGBeast." The younger of the two huffed, responding with a playfully annoyed look. It was a relief that he had been able to express what he was thinking and still find a way to ease the tension that had formed between the two of them. More than anything, he wanted to enjoy the rest of their time together, even if things hadn't necessarily gone as he'd been hoping. It would be enough just to be around him.
So Tim was smiling as the two of them made their way back down to the kitchen, back to the calm he'd felt before his moment gazing at himself in the mirror. A hunger pang struck him as he smelled the food again. He swore if he didn't eat soon he was going to start drooling. Still, he was raised with manners and just helped grab forks and drinks so they could get settled quicker. The look in his eyes made just how starving he felt pretty obvious, he was one hundred percent zeroed in on the food.
"What sort of movie do you want to watch?" This was new territory for the two of them, having to find something they could both enjoy. Not that Tim was terribly particular about what he watched, as long as it didn't bore him to the point that sleep started calling his name. "I'm willing to let you pick, but I'm definitely going to judge you based on what you decide." If Jason was going to argue for something based on classic literature, it better have some sort of action or something. Otherwise he was going to have to pry Tim's sleeping body off of his couch and dump him into Redbird himself.
Despite how hard Tim tried to pretend that he wasn't starving, Jason wasn't deaf and he chuckled softly at the rather audible complaint that was lodged by Tim's stomach. It made sense, the boy never ate as far as Jason knew, surviving entirely on couch naps and coffee from occasionally questionable sources. It made him roll his eyes and while Tim poked around his rather well stocked and supplied kitchen for forks (in the drawer under the toaster) and drinks (the entire bottom shelf of the almost instagram organized fridge was stocked with water, Zesti, and some juice), Jason grabbed some plates from the cupboard and started piling them high with food.
There was way more in that bag then Red Hood had ordered and Jason scoffed as he held out a box of canoli. "Put these in the fridge, please? I didn't know they were in there or I would have put them in when we got here. I knew she was going to try to feed you, I didn't think she was going to send home half her damned menu."
In the end, they both had plates of carbonara and garlic knots, small bowls of salad, and there was at least an entire entry sized container that Jason hadn't opened yet. He left the plates on the bar, balancing the leftovers carefully as he headed to put them away.
"If you're going to judge me for whatever I pick, I may as well just enjoy it, right? Star Trek: Generations. A decent bounce point if you've never seen the originals and almost the best of both casts in one movie. Plus, Guinan. You can never go wrong with Guinan."
Jason had a beautiful, instagram ready fridge, and Tim made a mental note never to let him see the one in the Nest. It rarely had more than questionable leftovers, Gatorade, and some refrigerated coffee. He dutifully placed the cannoli in what he hoped was a good spot for it, then let his stomach lead him right back to where the plates were. "Is that what you two were talking about? I could tell she thought I was too skinny." The way she had jabbed at his stomach hadn't exactly left much room for interpretation. He elected not to mention the fact that Jason had gotten all flustered.
As soon as Jason picked what they were watching, Tim paused and looked a little suspicious. At first he wondered if perhaps Jason knew that Star Trek was one of his favorites and only picked it for that reason, but the moment he mentioned Guinan, Tim knew he was a real fan. "Of course I've seen the originals. The first movie wasn't great but Wrath of Khan? You should have seen how hard I cried the first time I saw Spock die." Poor baby Tim, emotionally attached to fictional characters in lieu of parents.
"I do like the Next Generation cast better though. Not sure if it was just because it was on TV a lot when I was younger or if they did a better job. Picard over Kirk all day every day. Guinan was great, but I always really liked Data, especially when you got to see him with Spot." Tim chattered along, clearly very happy to have one of his special interests catered to. He settled in and waited for Jason to have a seat so he could start eating. Just because he was well behaved enough not to actually stuff his face, didn't mean he didn't want to.
Actually stocked it, huh? Well, I'll wait to pass my impressions until I've seen what you've stocked it with, but that's a good start.
[He said it with a smirk, clearly teasing the older man a little, but he held his hand the entire way to the car. He touched him the entire drive back to the Tower, his arm threaded through the gap between Dick's side and where his cast was resting on the armrest so that Jason's hand could lay on his thigh. Not teasing or hinting or anything untoward. Just touching him. Keeping contact.
Getting the call that Dick had been hurt had shaken him up. After all, even something as simple as a broken arm, if it healed wrong it could change their lives forever. Dick wasn't worried, but Jason couldn't help the little line of dread that traced his spine.
Dick was the first of them to fly. It wouldn't be right if he was grounded.
It was that line of worry that distracted him enough to get him to step out of the elevator into that dark room....but then his instincts kicked in and he was in the process of dropping his bag and pulling the knife that he sure as hell shouldn't have been able to have on the plane. He didn't actually have time to throw it towards one of the people he could feel hiding, but it was a close thing.
He ended up freezing in the stance to throw for a solid second before he straightened up and turned to give Dick a wild look.]
I almost...! You-! You motherfucker, that was a bad idea on so many fucking levels and you are so lucky I didn't gut someone, you ass hat!
[The flare of anger was real. But so was the complicated, adrenaline filled grin that slowly crept over his lips.]
[ it's a bit of a new nickname he's trying and usually only mobilized in times of desperation, like now, as Jason pins him in place with wild eyes and so many mixed emotions Dick almost gets dizzy.
but he likes it. likes the taste of the nickname in his mouth, likes calling the fearsome Red Hood his baby, and also, likes the way that slow grin spreads across Jason’s face, lighting his features up.
it was a bad idea because spooking Jason in any way and catching him off guard could’ve resulted in any number of injuries. it’s why he instructed everyone to hide far from reach and to keep a keen eye out and react quickly if something were to go wrong.
Dick steps in closer to Jason to the chorus of laughter from their friends, takes his brother’s face in both his hands, and plants a deep, loving kiss to his lips. ]
I’m proud of you. And I’m really happy you didn’t ruin your own surprise. When you insisted on coming a week early ‘cus I broke my forearm, I was worried we wouldn’t pull it off.
[He'd never admit it, but Jason kinda loved the new nickname. He'd always been quick to pass out nicknames to the people he liked, but Dick had always been a little more serious than that. He'd always been 'Jason', or 'Jay'. 'Little Wing' had been starting to become a little common when Jason had died, but he'd loved it from the very first time that Dick had accepted him enough to give it to him. Even now, years and a whole fleet's worth of trauma later, 'Little Wing' could still soothe the worst of his hackles.
But 'baby' was brand new and so very public and even as terrified as Jason was at almost skewering their friends, it's use got a little swarm of butterflies to stir in his belly. He blushed across just the bridge of his nose, his freckles standing out against the flushed skin as he put away his knife and leaned into that kiss.]
Don't ever do something like that again, okay? Breaking yourself or making me accidently kill our family is a bitch move, Big Bird. [He soothed his words with another soft kiss, breaking away with a laugh when Roy gagged and threw a couch pillow at them.]
[ Pretty was the way Jason blushed, the colour blooming like the sun kissed him, from just the simple little nickname. His laugh and Dick grinning, his chest filling with warmth seeing Jason surrounded with their family.
He loved this man so much. ]
Alright, alright. [ he pulled away reluctantly with a final little smile at Jason. They’d pick this up later. For now, he laced their fingers together and tugged Jason by the hand over to the table, where Roy had placed the huge cake with its lopsided candles. ]
Sit, Jay.
[ He pulled out the chair at the head of the table, and Rachel was already snapping away with her Polaroid, no doubt capturing the amused expression on Dick’s face as he pressed Jason down into it by the shoulders. Kory lit the candles and they started to sing, their voices an out of tune chorus making Dick laugh. ]
[Thing was, Jay had never really been all that worried about his birthday. Catherine would get one of those fancy cupcakes and stick a candle in it, but that was about it. They didn't have the money to waste on gifts, especially not after Willis was arrested.
Alfred had made him a big cake the first birthday he'd spent with Bruce and that had been nice, but he'd felt guilty for the gifts that Bruce had given him. He'd quietly asked for something lower key, and the following years had been just that. Just the three of them, playing board games and eating cupcakes.
He hadn't even thought about his birthday after he'd woken up with Talia. How did one judge age when one had been dead for six months? Brain dead for another two years? He'd woken up at fifteen in an eighteen year old body and the disconnect had been enough that he hadn't wanted anything to do with his birthday.
Dick pushed him into that chair, Kori lit the candles, and voices fought with each other in a song he hadn't heard since he was eight and his chest was so tight, it took him three tries to be able to blow out the little flames. His throat was tight, but he still made himself smile as he stood up.]
You guys go ahead and cut into it, I..I need to- Piss. I need to piss. Long flight and everything.
[He didn't look back as he bolted for their bedroom, closing the door behind him before sinking to the floor to try and figure out how to breath again.]
[ Tension pulled across Jason’s expression as their song came to a close and the nominal amount of candles were blown out in three tries. Dick could see the way that smile pinched, the way his voice squeezed in his throat with the hasty excuse.
Roy was the only one who seemed to pick up on it, besides him, and gave him a sympathetic little pat on the shoulder as he watched Jason scurry off. To go or to stay? Did Jason want a moment to himself? Probably, but Dick couldn’t stomach the idea of staying here when there was something wrong.
He hadn’t been around for any of Jason’s birthdays before he died, but he could guess that it had never been a big thing for him. Birthdays carried a lot of weight for people, even for himself, as they would always remind him of his days in the circus, of being surrounded by his parents and his found family. He’s managed to make it something similar now, and accepted how it’s changed. He wanted to do the same for Jason, but he can see now, in the way Jason struggled with his reaction, that it may not have been the best plan to begin with.
Perhaps the surprise, and the crowd, and the cake was too much. Perhaps he should’ve known better.
He felt guilty for it, and hesitated outside the bedroom door before knocking softly. ]
[He hadn't meant to be a killjoy. He really hadn't. He just...he'd needed a few minutes to work through what he was feeling without it just transmuting into anger like his emotions had a bad habit of doing. It was the whole emotional dysregulation thing. He was getting better at deal with it, at picking through what he was feeling so he that he didn't lose his grip on himself, but sometimes that meant he had to make a hasty retreat from whatever situation had caused it. He hated it, but it was worlds better than just being angry at everything.
The knock didn't come as a surprise and Jason took a moment to draw in a few more grounding breaths before he trusted himself to speak.]
Yeah, come on in. [When the door opened and proved him correct about who was on the other side of it, Jason managed a smile and shifted to lean back against the bed.] I'm okay. I just...I needed to take a minute. Come sit with me?
[ Jason looked like he was trying to hold everything together with the way that sharp mouth pulled into a small smile as Jason still tried to reassure him. It helped, and Dick let out the breath he was holding when Jason invited him in.
The door clicked shut behind him as Dick stepped into their bedroom and quietly sat down beside Jason. He tipped his head against Jason's shoulder and laid a warm hand on Jason's thigh. He sat quiet for a moment, before speaking. ]
[Dick settled down next to him and Jason shifted to lean against his brother's side, his head turning so that he could rest his forehead against Dick's shoulder. There had been a time not that long ago when touching him while he was this overstimulated would have resulted in a blow up. Harsh words and insults at minimum and an all out fight before he stormed off to his own place for a few days at worst.
It said a lot that he not only welcomed Dick into his space, but actually sought out his touch.
He smirked when Dick reassured him, but it wasn't a negative expression. If anything, it was fondness that came through in his tone.]
I know, Dickie. And for a moment, I wasn't...but this is helping. A couple minutes of quiet can soothe the savage beast and all that.
[ Jason has done so much work on himself, and Dick could see the difference day by day. That firey heart he knows and loves would always be there, and he wouldn't ever want to see it go anywhere, but he was also happy to see Jason learn to soothe away some of the pain that spiked to the surface.
He has also learned, too, not to always take that pain so personally. When Jason needed space, Dick was learning to give it to him, to patiently stay by Jason's side, even if sometimes it wasn't physically. He was starting to understand better and better where those needs came from. And the more Jason accepted Dick in these moments, the more he loved his brother.
Those words made him smile. A huff of laughter fondly pressed against Jason's hair as he dropped a kiss atop his boyfriend's head. ]
Hey. That's my savage beast you're talking about.
[ he set his hand on Jason's thigh, squeezing gently with the quiet tease. ]
Listen. I'm sorry, Jay. It wasn't my brightest moment to throw you a surprise party.
[It hadn't been the easiest thing, figuring out how to handle himself. He couldn't exactly go to a normal therapist, after all. Even in Gotham, being murdered by a madman and then being brought back to life by a Kryptonan temper tantrum was a little far fetched for most civilians. Add in the years of living with literal ninja and being trained to murder his own family and....well, he'd had to think outside the box.
In the end, he'd gone to see Harley and she'd helped. A lot. She was still crazy, of course, but so was he. She was still one of the best psychologists that Gotham had ever seen. Plus, she had personal insight on how being mentally and physically tortured by Joker tended to fuck someone up. Sessions didn't always end well, but they ended well often enough that Jason was learning how to manage some of his more deadly reactions.
Chuckling softly, he relaxed against the older man's side, keeping his eyes closed as he soaked up his brother's warmth.]
It's not the party, Dickie. I love the party. The fact that you got Roy here without him spilling the entire operation is fucking impressive. I just...it was a lot, for a moment. The 'surprise' part might have been a little too much, that's all. I really did almost gut poor Gar.
[And it was that more than the surprise that was getting to him, really. The fact that even on his good days, he was still so undeniably dangerous. He wasn't safe to be around and sometimes that fact hit a little harder than other times.]
How much do you want to bet Roy cut himself a slice out of the damned middle of my cake like a heathen?
[ Dick could sense the guilt loud and clear in Jason's words, and his smile turned soft hearing it. ]
I should've known it would be too much but--you didn't, though. Gar is fine. You controlled it, and you came here, and you calmed down.
[ Dick shifted to wrap his arms around Jason instead and took those broad shoulders into his embrace. Even this was new, being able to hold Jason through these difficult moments rather than only being able to sit and watch. Perhaps it was selfish that he wanted this, to feel like he was actually helping instead of useless. It probably said more about him than about Jason.
Though he could always count on Roy to lighten up the moment. Even when he wasn't here. ]
You never know. Might not be too late to try and stop him, though. If you want to.
[ He dropped a kiss atop Jason's head again. ]
I'm also more than happy to stay here for a bit. I didn't even get a chance to tell you how much I missed you. So fucking cute you insisted on coming so soon.
[If he'd been in his armor, he sure as hell wouldn't be sporting stitches from crow talons. It was cool enough outside at night that he'd started wearing his jacket again when he went out as Red Hood, and that leather was old and patched to all hell, but it was durable and very well taken care of.
Glancing up from his bowl, Jason smirked.]
'Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn.' [Once again, his love of languages and grasp of accents proved useful. He didn't have a spot on Clark Gable, but it was passable enough. He chuckled, shaking his head a little as he went back to his food.] Still, I'll keep the mask for now. Just because you don't care doesn't mean it wouldn't feel really weird if I didn't care. And I shouldn't have to start any rumors. Jace Peters works for Hood, don't you know. My people will vouch for me if someone starts sniffing around. Though, they'd have to be really fucking brave to poke around my part of the city.
[He was quiet, listening to Jon talk. Usually, it was him spilling his guts, not the stoic strawman. It was a little weird...but also kinda nice. Made him more human, in a way.]
Not all teachers need to be kind. My favorite teacher was this brittle old bitty with a fondness for rulers and a stickler for grammar. She'd fucking roll in her grave if she saw me now.
[ It was getting close to that time of year when Crane goes away to Arkham for the winter, or a few weeks as tended to be the case over the last few years. The colder it gets, the less Scarecrow works until spring. Outside of Halloween, of course. So he felt valid in his thought that the Hood was in his civvies.
A half glare offered. ] Close, do it again, with feeling.
[ If Jason was going to do Clark Gable at the Georgian, oh, he was going to make him do it again. Though, Jon would NEVER admit that is why he says it half as much as he does. ]
You misunderstand, I am not saying i don't care so take it off. No, I am saying I do not care to ever know who you really are. Unless either my ring returns, or somehow my amgydala fixes itself. The latter is nearly as impossible as the former... Thanks to Luthor.
[ A flash of rage in his eyes a moment before took a breath forcing it down, Scarecrow getting rowdy and wanting out with the flush of rage over Luthor. Taking another bite before adding. ] Jace Peters can be attacked by the Scarecrow should it come to that. I would only charge a session for the act.
[ Hey, there are some good books coming out. And he has a harmless version of the toxin he made to scare people without actually gassing them. ] I find if you remember them with some disdain, they were likely a good teacher. You don't need to be friendly with everyone. School is about learning, and I would not pass any fool if I had a say. Which was counterproductive when half the staff were sleeping with students. [ Poking at the bowl with the fork again.] Why would she roll, though? I have seen your writing, it is rather good.
[He grinned in the face of that glare, taking a cheeky bite of his food before the conversation continued and the grin faded a little at that flash of anger. He understood it, but there was still a part of him that was wary of it.
Just because Jon didn't gas him now doesn't mean Jon didn't gas him back when he'd been Robin. Watching his mother claw her way after him, needles hanging from her arms and vomit on her blouse had been bad enough. He was more than a little nervous about what he'd see if he were to ever be dosed now.
Their sessions with hypnosis were bad enough and he didn't even really remember most of those. Just an overall feeling of fear and pain and the crushing weight of being alone.]
If I need Jace to end up gassed, I'll let you know. For now, I think we should be good. And she'd be rolling because she was the person who came the closest to making me stop cussing. My knuckles were black and blue by the end of that year, she'd smacked me with that damned ruler so much. Almost worked, though.
[That had been the year that Willis had been locked up, so a lot of his bad influences were gone for a while. Of course, then Catherine had gotten bad and he'd stopped going to school at all....but still. She'd left her mark.]
[ At least that anger had not been pointed at Jason. He had not been the one who stole away the one item that let him not only feel unfiltered fear, but to cause it. The truth was, had Luthor not stolen his ring, Jon would have left earth with Sinesto and likely would never have returned. Even when he horrified Gotham and peeled peoples minds open, it was still better than whatever horror he would unleash with the Yellow Ring.
The issue was, clocked that wariness, and it took effort to ignore it. To force himself to eat and not think about the beautiful horror each of the Robins had shown, the horror he used to feel. No, focus on the baby bird, and eat what the Hood made him.
Taking another deep breath, letting it out of his nose before he spoke again.]
Needless to say it would be a harmless gas, I did sign saying I would not dose you with toxin. As for your teacher, I suppose she tried, but I rarely find that violence works to enforce a lesson. Not does soap in the mouth. Cussing doesn't take away from who you are. Recent studies have even stated that by swearing, you're triggering emotional responses in yourself. Those responses trigger a mild stress response, which eases mild pain.
[ After that rambling explanation he sat the half finished bowl down to sit back some looking to the Hood, staying quiet a moment.]
[Well. Fuck. Didn't that just paint a whole new light on why a seven year old was cussing enough to earn himself bruised knuckles.
Shaking his head, he dropped his fork into his mostly empty bowl and slumped back in his chair.]
Not a session, Doc. You shrink my head all you like while I'm paying you, but I called you to give that little one it's best chance at not dying. So...what's the prognosis?
[It no doubt said a whole lot about his childhood that he didn't want to talk about it outside of very strict perimeters.
Reaching forward, he lightly touched the edge of the shoe box, sitting up straighter so he could peer into it. The bird was still upright, but it was settled down. If it had more feathers, they would have been just a puff, but as it was, they were still kinda scraggily looking.
A good match for the man he'd given them to.]
She looks pretty comfortable. You can take the heating pad, if you need it. I've got more and it's not like I'm in this safehouse often.
[ Jonathan was studying him again, despite not finishing his food. Still sitting back, quietly filing away the things that make the Hood tick. ]
Occasionally, I forget to turn it off. She may live, I will take her home with me. Though, I will likely have to put Craw out tonight, and hope she is carrying nothing, as Nightmare will be curious if he is not too tired to move around tonight. I will take her to the vet to confirm what I can, and if she is incapable of surviving, then I will handle it.
[ He sounds a little sad when he says it, but it would be humane if it came to that. He would torture a human to death, but birds were never something he would torture, despite what Jeremiah Arkham may think.
He had not yet considered how Edward might feel about the new addition, that would hit him later. ] I don't need it, Nightmare's pumpkin is heated, and I have one as well. Back pains, I am certain you understand, or you will.
[ Considering they are the same height. Those back pains would come if they hadn't already. ]
[He could feel the man staring at him and even through the contacts he could feel the focus against his skin. It had bothered him at first, when he'd first started to see the man. He'd been wary and guarded and quick to call an end to things, not trusting the other man to not use the weaknesses he was handing over to be used as knives against him. Those knives never came, however, and he'd slowly started to open up more and more, uncurling from around his pain like some masochistic hedgehog.
That had been a long time ago and a far cry from the man who was lounging comfortably in just a pair of sweatpants and a tied on Halloween mask. Still, that calculating look slide easily under his skin and without the comforting parameters of therapy, it made him fidget. He tried to cover it by shoving another spoonful of eggs and rice into his mouth, but he didn't have much hope that it actually worked.]
Knees more than back, but I get it. Keep me informed on how she's doing? Even if you have to put her down, I'd like to know. She's a cute little shit. If you need anything for her, let me know? I can't actually do anything with her, but I can pay for things if you don't feel like stealing so close to your big night.
[ It wasn't just Jason he watched that like. It was nearly everyone. Some people were moderately safe from his studying gaze, but those people could be counted on one hand. And, sometimes, even they were studied depending on the situation. It was nothing personal, just the part of Jon that was a workaholic. It was impossible to not study an interesting case.
Those knives were not coming for Jason. No, he was not nearly as suicidal these days. He had his reasons to live, a few friends, Edward, his birds and the work. The Red Hood was not part of that work, though.
No, Jonathan just returned to feeding the baby bird when he saw Jason try to cover. He rarely apologizes, but he knows he's made the other uncomfortable, it was challenging to ignore Scarecrow screeching to lock onto that and see what makes the little bird tick. The Hood had stopped being little bird when he came back a man the size he was, but Scarecrow didn't care. Everyone has a nickname from Scarecrow.]
Luckily, my knees don't often bother me. It's been my back since my late twenties. The dancing helps. [ No denying he dances, not with his fighting style. It keeps him limber, even with pains of age. ] Of course, you found her, so I will keep you informed. I have a feeling she may be a beauty if she survives. Nightmare looked worse than this when I found him, but I would say he was a month or so older. I shouldn't need anything, though. I have been at this a long time.
[ granted, he hadn't realized the problems that will lead him to calling Oswald in a day or so. ]
She wouldn't be safe around your daughter, for either the child or the bird. I wasn't going to leave her even if you asked. Though, I do thank you for considering my big night. After the last two years, nothing will be in my way.
[ As soon as he said it, his head snapped up. ]
Your next session, you will pay not in money, but by making me a promise Hood.
[ His cheap-ass doing anything for free? It must be big.]
[A respite was a respite and Jason wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth. Crane turned back to the chick and Jason felt his shoulders relax without that scrutiny. He slouched a little more into his chair, fiddling with the spoon in his hand as he came down from the spiral his brain had started to climb.
By the time Crane mentioned dancing, Jason was once more solid enough to give a small, lopsided grin.]
A dancing Doc, never thought I'd hear the magic behind getting your feet up that high, but it makes sense. And it makes sense why it helps with your back, too. A lot of back pain that isn't mechanical is because of weak core muscles. The long muscle needs conditioning if it's going to protect from getting your shit kicked in a couple times a year. I could give you a couple tips if you wanted? Help you lengthen and stretch out those problematic aches.
[The man's posture wasn't doing him any favors, either...but he'd read Crane's file when he'd been Robin and something told him that snapping 'stand up straight' would be a great way to make that abused child Jon had once been lash out.
At the mention of his daughter, his exposed eyes softened a little and that grin broadened into a smile. He was head over heels for that little girl who'd been so suddenly dropped in their laps. The expression didn't harden, exactly, but he did arch a curious brow at the rather abrupt change in his doctor.]
Easy, Doc. What is it? I'm not gunna chase you over Halloween, if that is what you're worried about. Long as you're not mowing down toddlers with your scythe, anyway. You do that, all bets are off, but you knew that.
[ He may be one of the worst people to trust with one's mental health, but he was excellent at what he does, when he cares enough to try anyway. The Hood's mystery was enough to keep him interested, and the Hood safe as one could be around Crane.
He chuckled when Hood spoke, waiting until he was done, as he held the little bird, letting it stay warm in his bony grasp. ] Did you not know? I've always called it violent dancing. [ Shrugging a little.] I'll consider it, it won't be tonight. I am officially off the clock, which means doing nothing I do not feel like doing.
[ His posture was terrible, always slouching, and leaning, while Scarecrow was stiff and moved in inhumane ways. Jason was smart to not say it, though, that had always been a favorite of Grannys. ]
Easy is for after you promise me you will take your child and Arsenal and leave on the 30th, don't return until November 2nd at the earliest. I will not be killing anyone, unless accidents happens. And [ A flat look given.] You know I do not start until after curfew, if children get hurt that is on their parents. Even the homeless children know to get off the streets on Halloween.
I do not do previews or hints, but you do not want you or your child here while I am working.
[ He had worked too much with The Hood to expose him to Halloween toxins. It was part of their deal after all, no Toxin for the hood. ]
He didn't bother responding to the text, but it was only about ten minutes later before a murmur started rumbling through the guests. Apparently, someone had shown up that no one had been expecting. Someone that more than a few people were uneasy about. After all, Jace Peters was known to be a certain Eastend crime lord's capo.
Not enough time for him to have gotten ready for a stage like this. He'd been planning on showing up, apparently. Either that, or he'd had other plans for the night. He was dressed far simpler than most of the rich assholes already there, but he was neat and clean and he'd put in enough effort that he hadn't been turned away at the door. He'd even styled his curls into something resembling order, the white streak striking against all the black.
Catching sight of Tim, he smiled and the expression was one of the predator spotting it's prey. He absently waved off the tray of champagne being offered, opting instead to start moving through the crowd towards the younger man.
The rumblings of someone dangerous being there reached Tim before he caught sight of Jason, but he immediately knew who they were talking about. There was the stark relief of knowing he was going to get rescued from the hell of old ladies pinching his cheeks and talking about how he needed to date their daughters, but when he turned his head and caught sight of the man approaching him, the feelings inside of him were very different.
Heat flushed every inch of him. Not only was Jason incredibly handsome, he was (maybe) inadvertently fulfilling Tim's bad boy fantasies. It was hot that he was dangerous, that some of the other people there were visibly afraid of him. If they played their cards right, Gotham's elite would recognize that Tim was apparently infatuated with a capo, and it would be better not to try to meddle in his business or attempt any hook ups with their daughters.
"Jace." Tim gave a little tip of his head as a greeting, putting on airs and ignoring the temptation to just throw himself at the man. "I'm glad to see that you were able to make it tonight. I'm sure your boss can tell how much good this charity has done."
It was inadvertent, but only just in the sense that he hadn't dressed specifically for Tim's eye. He'd made a point of being the tradition capo, though, and who didn't have a secret love for a bad boy? Especially with the reputation that Jace had for being exceptionally dangerous, but also a well spoken gentleman. It made him perfect for public appearances in places that Hood couldn't be expected to go to himself.
At least, that was the carefully curated lie of Jason's current legal alias.
The crowd parted a little as he moved through them and he smirked a little to himself as he took full advantage of that. The look on Tim's face when the younger man caught sight of him was something to be savored and the lack of people trying to fight for Tim's attention was helpful for that. No doubt it was also a relief for the man, himself.
"Mr. Drake." He let his natural Eastend accent drip heavy in his words, not bothering to put on the posh Bristol accent that he usually used any time that he had to deal with the rest of the family. He dipped his own head in a likewise greeting, letting the corners of his lips toy with the idea of a smirk as he looked back up. "Thank you for inviting him. He wanted me to express his disappointment at being unable to come on his own, but he's hoping that you won't be too disappointed that he sent me in his stead. He also wanted to make sure that this went exactly where it belonged." For the first time, his hand left his pocket and it didn't escape his notice that a few people stepped back as if expecting him to be wielding a weapon.
Which, in a way, he was. It was a check. A check with a fair amount of zeros, filled out to the Neon Knight Organization, 'Donation' written on the 'notes' line in neat, precise handwriting.
"An additional token of his good will towards your efforts, Mr. Drake."
It felt a little silly to feign that he was afraid that Jason was going to pull out a weapon, but he made sure that he at least looked a little nervous, at first. He took the offered check carefully and gasped at the sheer amount that was on it. It struck him right at his heart, because he knew what it really meant--Jason saw the value in the work he was doing and wanted to help keep it going. Just thinking about it warmed him to his core and brought a natural flush to his cheeks. There were practically hearts in his eyes.
"Oh my, thank you." He gave an appreciative nod of his head and fluttered his eyelashes for dramatic effect. "And please thank him for me. His generosity will make a big difference on the streets. I will keep a close eye on it and make sure every penny is used properly." The young man turned and gave the check to the woman organizing the whole thing, so that she could see to it getting to the right place. When he turned back to Jason, there was a genuine smile on his lips, not the fake plastic kind he had to put on to please the old white rich assholes that attended these sorts of things.
It was going to be embarrassingly easy to pretend to have a crush on Jace.
He took a step closer to the older boy and tilted his head. "Can I get you something to eat or drink? They've made these delightful little Gruyere and Crab Palmiers that pair perfectly with the champagne." It was pretty obvious that he was flirting at this point. He'd feel bad about being so shameless if it wasn't going to get him exactly what he was after--freedom from the old ladies. "I want to make sure that you have a good time while you're here, so you can share my good will with your boss."
Of course he'd seen the value in what Tim was doing. Yes, the Knights was a cover, but that didn't mean it wasn't doing real work among the city's at risk youths. He'd seen Tim's work gain traction, even helped it along as he could. Between Tim's programs and his own, the number of teenagers being recruited was down by over half. The kids that had once been forced to take to the streets to scrape up enough money on their knees to be able to feed themselves and possibly even younger siblings were fewer and further between. Hood's shelters could focus on domestic abuse victims and families with nowhere else to go, while Tim's could help the children that would otherwise fall through the cracks.
They were a team, the two of them. No matter if Tim knew it or not. It was what he'd been coming here to say in the first place, Tim's plea for help only making the whole thing that much more amusing.
"Oh, I can find my own food and drink, Mr. Drake. I appreciate the offer, but you are the man of honor here, right? I'm just the messenger boy." He smiled, that soft little lopsided smile that Tim only got to see when it was just the two of them. "But maybe later, after all the speeches and toasts and everythin' else too rich for my blood...maybe then I can ask you for a dance? 'S a party, right?"
He wasn't going anywhere. He'd stay close, be ready to swoop in if Tim needed a rescue. Though, the younger boy's doe eyes at him had no doubt been noticed. More than a few of those old vipers would be leaving him alone.
If they thought Tim had doe eyes before, it was nothing compared to the way he looked at Jason when he gave him that lopsided smile. He was just so damn charming, it wasn't fair. "I would love to dance with you." The younger of the two said, a little too earnestly. God, he was like a school girl with a crush. How embarrassing. But even mentally chiding himself didn't get him to calm the hell down.
Jason was right, though. There were a lot of speeches and toasts to get through. As the head of the program, everyone wanted to hear from him. Fortunately, being the son of Janet and Jack Drake, he was more than capable of giving a speech to an expectant crowd. They wouldn't have raised their only child to be anything less. Not that they did much raising outside of grooming him to be their heir in the business world. Still, he looked powerful as he approached the little podium and began to speak.
Tim told them all about a few kids in particular that they had managed to help out, ones he had gotten to know on a personal level. All the work that Jason did really inspired him to do more than just throw money at the problem. He wanted to be out there helping the work get done, when he could. As he spoke, every once in a while, he'd let himself look over to where the older boy stood and the smile that pulled onto his lips was much more genuine than it was otherwise.
He made sure to thank the Red Hood in his speech, for the work that he did, and even tossed Jace's name in there as the messenger to thank him for the donation. Not something he typically did for donors, but not so unusual as to create shockwaves. There was still plenty of applause when he finished.
He'd smiled that lopsided smile one more time at that quick agreement to dance with him, but as much as he wanted to push his way into stealing all of Tim's social battery, he made himself back off. True to his word, he stayed close, always just on the peripheral of Tim's bubble of activity. He mingled a little, though most barely gave him polite nods before finding someone more socially suitable to talk to, but he always kept at least one eye on Tim and the socialites who followed him around.
The exception to his hovering came during the speeches. He'd charmed the woman tending to the hors d'oeuvres table into giving him a rather generously loaded plate, then settled in the back to work his way through his meal while speeches were given. One by one, he mostly ignored them all...until Tim walked up to that podium. Every time the boy glanced his way Jason smiled right back, even winking once just to see if he could make that smooth brilliance stumble at all.
Thanking a vigilante crime lord with a deadly reputation was perhaps a little more unusual than Tim might have planned, but honestly it wasn't that different from someone thanking Carmine Falcone. There was a murmur of surprised that rolled through the attendees, a hushed surprise that was easily covered by applause as Tim stepped away from the podium.
Almost at once, Jason's bulk was at Tim's elbow. A quiet, looming presence that kept the more timid of the vultures at bay. It didn't stop some of the older, more arrogant of the flock from their questions, however.
"How long have you worked with the Hood, Mr. Drake?"
"Is Mr. Wayne aware of your dealings with the Red Hood?"
Tim did indeed stumble, just a little, when Jason winked at him. He did his best to cover it smoothly, but he was sure that anyone who knew him well enough would be able to tell. It didn't really bother him, though, he'd be willing to look a lot more foolish than that if it meant getting to have the man's attention on him.
There was no need to look to his side when his speech ended. The aura of Jason Todd let Tim know he was there far before his eyes would be able to catch him. What once had been a beautiful, genuine smile on his face twisted into something fake as the elite hounded him for answers. No one in their right mind thought they had the right to demand things of a Drake, Tim least of all. He just tilted his head and gave it a little shake.
"I am working with the Red Hood." The young man said with a pleasant tone, daring them to try to question him further. He'd outwit every single one of them if necessary, they didn't scare him at all. "I have been for... hm. A few months, I think?" His eyes finally trailed over to the man beside him, and he bat those long, dark lashes of his. "Isn't that right Jace?"
It was the mention of Bruce that irked him most of all. Tim was not a child that needed daddy's permission to handle his charity how he saw fit. He turned, narrowing his eyes slightly at the elderly man that was staring him down. Hell hath no fury like a pissed off Timmy. "I'm surprised you'd think that Bruce would have an issue with any of it. He's well aware that protecting the youth of this city is the only way to secure a solid future for Gotham. The Red Hood has no ulterior motives--he grew up here and knows what the streets are like." He grabbed for a glass of champagne as a waiter walked by and let himself have a long sip of it before speaking again.
"Or is it that you don't believe my mother taught me how to be a good judge of character?" Janet might not have been a very good mom, but she was a fierce business woman that people knew not to mess with. Tim certainly felt more connected with her postmortem than he ever had his shitty father. "I can promise you that I have personally vetted every person that comes anywhere near my charity, and if I was the least bit suspicious of anything at all, that person would not come near it again." All the while his tone was kept perfectly pleasant. It was the glint in his eyes that was vicious.
Watching Tim tear through the pack of entitled rich people with nothing but his sharp wit and lashing tongue was just as evocative as watching Red Robin take apart a group of thugs with his bo staff. It was captivating and Jason's attention was locked onto the younger man, a small smirk on his lips as he watched the hypocrites be torn down. They didn't go quietly, but Tim was quick to cut off their regroup attempts and, eventually, the small group dispersed and they were left once more to their own devices.
"You know, you didn't have to do that. He would have been fine being a silent benefactor." He made sure to keep his ruse, referring to Hood in the third person just as all of them referred to their masked egos. He sipped at his drink, something in a short, wide glass with ice and an orange slice, amusement bright in his eyes. "He's pissed off more than a few people in this room. He doesn't take kindly to the hoity-toity types coming down to our stretch of street to mess up some pretty young thing's face. Marched more than a few of them out on their asses, nursing busted noses or a few holes in places that won't kill them."
Hell, he'd recognized no less than three 'gentlemen' in the crowd who'd made his own pre-Batman days a living hell, not that he had any proof. There was a reason he wasn't mingling and it wasn't just because this wasn't his kind of crowd.
"Gotta say, though. Watching you work is very impressive, Mr. Drake. Very skillfully handled."
It sated a vicious part of him that didn't see the light of day very often, but in the past few years Tim had become very disenchanted with the sort of people he was raised to be like. He understood a little better why Bruce would get out of these sort of events as much as possible. Like tonight, when he swore he had other things to attend to. Not that Tim's sad about him being missing. Jason might not have come if Bruce were there. Tim certainly wouldn't have asked it of him.
"I don't have to do anything." He reminded Jason sweetly after another sip. "I admire everything that Red Hood has done for the youth in Gotham, and I'm not going to tolerate bad-mouthing him at my charity event. Whatever he's had to do to keep the streets safe is none of my business and has nothing to do with the Neon Knights program." Well, it was his business, but as Red Robin, not as Tim Drake. Red Robin's not too keen on hearing about people getting shot, but, well. At least Jason's not killing them. Progress.
There was a slight bow of his head as an acknowledgement of the praise. "I appreciate that, Jace. And I can see now that your boss probably didn't stop by to spare both me and himself the drama it would cause. But I'm glad that you were able to be here tonight."
Jason might have still come if Bruce had been there. Tim had needed him, and while he knew that it hadn't been a serious need, the boy had still asked and Jason had started to find himself unable to say no to those pretty blue eyes. He probably wouldn't have stayed, though. Being lectured about ruining Tim Drake's reputation wasn't exactly the ego boost that Bruce seemed to think it was.
Jason didn't want to make life harder for Tim just because of their...whatever they had. Contrary to what their family seemed to think.
Reaching out, Jason gently stroked a strand of hair back behind Tim's ear, his thumb lightly brushing the patch of cheek it had been hiding.
"Oh, I know you don't have to do anything. And he's very grateful for your understanding of his situation. But...if you're serious about not wanting people with ill intent to be around your organization, you may want to go ask Mr. Coleman exactly why he's favoring his left arm." He paused, giving Tim a little bit of a look before he cleared his throat and leaned in to whisper "And maybe exactly what he said to the girl he wanted to rough up to get her to leave the rest of the girls on the corner. He'll deny it, but the bossman's got proof if you want to see it."
So maybe he hadn't been coming tonight just to personally hand over the donation. He knew how fiercely Tim protected his program.
Tim was practically swooning at the way Jason brushed his hair behind his ear, like something right out of a romance novel. How had he found the guy anything but insanely charming? Well, it might have had something to do with getting his ass thoroughly kicked more than once, but really. That wasn't Jason's fault. Tim just felt lucky that he got to see the real him eventually, when the wounds slowly began to heal.
There's a shift in the brightness to Tim's gaze when he hears what Jason has to tell him, however. "I don't need to see anything." The younger of the two said, voice back to that dangerous, icy tone. "Excuse me for a minute, Jace." He didn't wait for any sort of response, simply turned on his heel. There were practically flames under his feet with each step he took, his aura nothing but ice and steel.
Tim walked right up to the man, smiled, and motioned for him to lean down so he could tell him something quietly. Whatever he said had the geezer looking shocked, then turning bright red. The guy seemed ready for the denial that Jason predicted, but Tim held his sharp gaze. "I assume you'll be able to see yourself out, Mr. Coleman. I don't think either of us want any sort of issues that could arise if you don't." He hummed and then smiled that same smile he inherited from his mother.
Those bright blue eyes followed the man as he made his exit, making sure that wasn't simply pretending to leave. And then Tim followed it up by telling security not to let him in again. It was only then that he returned to Jason's side.
There was a heat that settled in his belly when he watched those crystalline eyes go icy. A sense that whispered of danger, but not to him. It made his mouth go a little dry and as Tim stalked through crowd, every bit a wolf threading it's way through a flock of sheep, Jason took a careful sip of his old fashioned. The bite of the alcohol wasn't exactly refreshing, but it was bracing enough that he managed to not show his own teeth in a grin at the old man's retreating back.
The fact that his wife looked mad but not surprised just made him want to lash out even more.
Instead, he kept his focus on Tim and as soon as the younger man was heading back towards him, Jason was striding forward to meet him. His glass was gone, emptied and set aside, his hand instead held out in an offer.
"If you'd honor me with a dance, Mr. Drake?" He needed to get his hands on his lover, even just one pressed a little lower at the small of the younger man's back than would be socially acceptable. No one would expect a gangster to know how to ballroom dance, and compared to the rest of his would be siblings he wasn't particularly good at it, but he knew enough to not trample Tim's feet as he bowed his head to be able to murmur directly into Tim's ear.
"Anyone ever tell you how hot you are when you're pissed off?"
Naturally, Tim was more than happy to dance with Jason. He loved the feeling of the hands on him--a kind of security he probably didn't need but very much desired. He could take care of himself just fine, but that didn't lessen the warmth in his belly at feeling like maybe he didn't have to. That, and being touched like this left him feeling utterly desirable. Hard to believe someone like Jason would ever want someone like him, but he'd managed to luck into it and Tim was determined to keep it that way.
The smile he gave in response was just a little smug, a cat that caught the canary. He gazed up at the older boy with those pretty eyes, batting his long lashes a few times. "That's not usually that kind of compliment I'm used to getting, but it might be my favorite." He wasn't bullshitting, either. Despite his small stature, he could be a vicious little thing if necessary, and he didn't want to spend his time chasing after someone that would dislike that part of him. That was the thing about Jason, though, from the day that they got together, he hadn't made the younger vigilante feel like some part of him was broken and needed to be repaired.
And, definitely, there were parts of him that were broken. He just appreciated it not being thrown in his face.
Jason might not have been the most skilled dancer in the family, but he did just fine. The two of them were so well versed in fighting together that they could read each other's movements like it was second nature. Dancing and fighting weren't that different from one another, so they made a good pair in many different ways.
"I do think it's probably just about time to leave, though. I'm starting to get tired of all of this."
Thing was, that appreciation ran both ways. Yeah, Tim disapproved of the occasional body that he still left on Gotham's concrete, but the younger man understood. That hard, vicious core that ran through his perfectly straight spine meant that Tim could see the reason. He didn't like it, but he didn't have to like it.
They respected each other. All of each other. All their broken, jagged pieces that fit back together with little holes where somethings had been too shattered to repair. The others saw those holes and pitied them. Jason saw those holes and understood that being broken didn't mean you were useless.
The older man chuckled softly, nodding as the song came to an end. He kept a hand at the small of Tim's back as he guided them away from their fellow dancers. He wanted to steer them both in the direction of the door and just call it a night, maybe take some time to peel Tim out of that fine suit with his teeth...but Tim Drake had a reputation.
And being seen leaving with Jace Peters went beyond a little public flirting to get the grandmas to stop shoving their grandkids at him. The pictures that had no doubt already been taken would be damning enough.
"You go on. I'll make a menace of myself a little longer to keep your reputation pearly white. Meet you at the Nest. I'll make some caramel for popcorn and we can start season two of TNG."
Tim absolutely had a reputation, but it was terribly disappointing to feel Jason's hand slip away from his back. It had to be done, he couldn't be seen as some sort of floozy that would spend the night with just anyone. Still, the temptation to ignore all of that and drag Jason down for a fierce kiss called to him like a siren's song. Why was it that he always had to be the one to behave himself? Not like Bruce didn't indulge himself whenever he wanted.
Though typically not with known criminals. Just ones that masked their deeds with a pretty face that couldn't cause any harm.
Jason's words did make the younger boy smile. He nodded his head obediently, because he was a very good boy. He doesn't give into the temptation to stick his tongue down the vigilante's throat, but he does let his lips brush faintly against his cheek. A tender, sweet little affection that he was sure would be getting photographed. He didn't care. It was chaste and would hardly cause a huge scandal.
"Good night, Jace. It was wonderful to see you." He said loud enough to be overheard, and then he's off, the crowd parting for him so that he can take his leave.
[They'd survived, and now they were changed for it.
Jason frowned a little at the man's easy smile, a little bit of annoyance lingering despite the quiet of the deck. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that the 'mess' had been a ploy to get him out of his bunk. Dick was always doing shit like that and it was...a mixed bag, honestly.
He'd spent the only years he could remember surviving by keeping his head down and retreating back to his rooms the first chance he got, only letting himself be specifically requested by passengers instead of letting himself be randomly grabbed. It was a good way to survive, but it left a lot to be desired in the realm of actually 'living'.
For instance, he still hadn't even really registered the stars overhead as he made his way across the deck to not so lightly thump his fist into the older man's shoulder.]
You're going to get us picked up at this rate, you asshole. I'm not saving you when someone decides to take you back to their room for the night.
[It was only a half a lie. He couldn't actually stop a passenger from snagging the brunette...but he could volunteer to go with him. Which is exactly what he'd do and they both knew it.]
[ he hushed, raising a finger to his mouth as Jason's prod to his shoulder sends him taking a couple of steps back without the mirth leaving his eyes.
of course he didn't want to get picked up either, or pulled into a cabin with a guest, but he also wasn't here to simply do his time and leave. he'd been doing a good amount of digging and narrowly getting away with a couple things here and there, but there were also times where he paid for his nosiness, for his fight, or just for his inability to simply behave. J had unfortunately been the witness to a couple of those, as much as Dick tried to hide it.
besides his larger goal of figuring out the organization of the cruise and getting information on its guests, many related to the crimes in Gotham, he found that on the daily, he wanted little more than to see that rare smile of J's. after all, he'd always been great at getting up after being kicked down, and the reason why he could go on at all was that he could always the light. no matter how bad things were. ]
You don't have to save me, but just--look.
[ he pointed up at the sky, even though all he was staring at was J's face. ]
[That reckless streak was exactly why Jay got so defensive when Dick suggested stupid things like this. Because in the beginning, he could stand back and watch as Dick was punished for poking his nose into places where it didn't belong. But now?
Now, he wasn't so sure. He'd spent seven years surviving by letting everyone else around him die. The thought of watching Dick sink beneath the waves, however, twisted something sharp in his guts that he had no memory of ever feeling before.
And yet, he was there. Walking across the empty deck and narrowing his eyes as Dick's finger pressed against his lips. For a moment he considering biting that finger....but then he was rolling his eyes and finally looking up. Overhead, the sky stretched endless and wonderous and his annoyance faded as he lost himself for a moment in the beauty.]
[ A too-soft smile pulled on the corners of Dick's mouth as he lowered his finger, lost in J's expression, drinking in the one syllable J utters as he finally looks up at the sky. it's beautiful up there, a billion stars shining, a billion lightyears away, and there's no sound on the empty deck except for the hum of the cruise ship engine.
he wants nothing more but to pull that face to his, to kiss those full lips, to make out under the stars but even he wouldn't be so risky to do that. so he just stands there, quiet as he watches J, still as he lets the moment stretch on for as long as J would allow them to have it. ]
[They were too high up to hear the lap of the waves below, but the mind was great at filling in sounds that should have been there. The hum of the engines, music from some party or another below them. There was soft violin playing from a lower deck, a nice romantic dinner for the passengers.
Jay didn't look over. He just stepped closer until he could feel the warmth of Dick's body against his own. Reassurance, protectiveness....he didn't know. He moved closer because he wanted to move closer.
It was just Dick. His gravitational pull that J just could seem to pull away from. Not that he was trying particularly hard these days.]
[ Dick truly was set on behaving himself after already beckoning J out of his cabin in the first place. it was enough to see J standing there under the stars, two beautiful sights together. it was a treat in a place like this.
but then J stepped closer until their bodies were together and Dick instinctively wrapped his arms around J's shoulders to pull him even closer yet. his gaze traced out J's features then dropped to his lips again, and not even knowing they might be being watched, or captured on security footage, or whatever frivolous rules they were breaking could stop him from leaning up to press kiss J.
it was a simple kiss. a tender, gentle one, suited for being witnessed by the whole universe stretching above them. a hand drifted up to wordlessly cup over the warm skin of J's branded cheek. Dick would consider this their first kiss. not the one forced by Roman, or any of what happened under outside influence. this was theirs and theirs alone. ]
[Anyone else and J would have pulled away as soon as that arm slid around his shoulders. Of course, for anyone else, J never would have left the safety of his bunk. He shifted closer under the warmth of Dick's protective arm... and when the older boy leaned in, he didn't pull away.
The kiss was soft, gentle in a way that J had never been kissed before. Roman had taken great joy in watching the two of them make out and writhe against each other as he'd used them as he'd seen fit, but those kisses were barely remembered against the haze of the drugs in J's system and the pain that had overtaken his body. Dick had been a rock in that sea of pain....but even then, everything that Roman had made them do hadn't been with Dick. They'd done it because they'd had to. Because if they hadn't, Sionis would have killed one or both of them.
Being kissed on a quiet deck under the stars? That earned a small, quiet sound from the younger boy, a hand reaching up to tentatively touch the older's face. When it broke, he didn't immediately pull away, though he did turn a confused and unsure look out over the ocean.]
What’s a bad idea, Jay? [ his answer came quietly, intimately, his voice so low it was clearly only meant for J’s ears to hear. for a while now, the name in his mind was Jason. maybe the delusion was the only thing keeping him sane here, but he believed it.
his gaze followed J’s over the sea before slowly, he turned into J’s touch. his eyes shut to the feeling of that warm palm cupping against his cheek. ]
I wanted you to see it. I know you don’t wanna be out here, but I wanted to…share this with you. [ the stars, the sea, the quiet deck, the wind whipping around their bodies, kept warm by proximity itself. his arms tightened around J, his face tucked into J’s jaw, nuzzling. ]
Warmth bloomed in J's chest, spilling out over the bridge of his nose to highlight the freckles that dotted his cheekbones. When had anyone ever said something like that to him? When had anyone ever meant something like that? If anyone had, he didn't know. Surely not in the few years that he could actively remember. It was stupid, so fucking stupid to let himself get so wrapped up in it...
He tucked himself in closer to the older man, his face turning in so he could softly kiss the soft skin of Dick's neck.]
Stay with me tonight?
[Staff bunks weren't designed for two people, but they could make it work. He didn't....he wasn't ready to walk away from that softness. From the feeling of safety that being around Dick had always given him. He knew it was false and that Dick couldn't actually do a damned thing to save him if someone wanted to take him...but he wasn't ready to give up that illusion.
[ Soft lips found the sensitive spot on his neck and the subtle shiver that raced down his spine had nothing to do with the chill of the wind whipping around their embraced forms.
He stilled when J asked his question, those words to quiet and vulnerable, warming his heart because he knew J would be worried about all the what-ifs if they were found together, tucked into J's tiny bed. Management was already to pick up on clues of how close they had grown. ]
Okay. [ He replied softly, nodding. Dick knew he was working through J's defences, but that meant he also needed to play his part in keeping them safe. Maybe it was delusional, but Dick felt there was plenty they could do to tread lightly enough, to stay alive, to endure whatever it was they had to go through to see each other again, but they had to be careful about it. ] At least...just for a bit. [ Then, once J fell asleep, he would leave. ]
Come on. [ Despite his worries, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he pulled back and looked at J. ] Let's go.
[Dick wasn't wrong. He was worried. If they were caught together, it would be punishment for both of them and while J was fairly sure he'd be alright, he knew that Dick hadn't yet figured out how to bend without breaking. If they were caught, Dick would try to fight and he wasn't sure if he could watch the older man be beaten for him.
But Dick nodded and J let himself relax into the strong arms around him as he shivered.
Behind them, a shadow moved.]
How sweet. [The voice was low and J didn't recognize it, but he still stiffened and tried to jerk back from the circle of Dick's arms, but a hand caught him between the shoulderblades, keeping him from moving.] You found yourself a playmate.
[J didn't recognize the voice. But Dick would.
Slade stepped out of the shadow, cruel smirk on his lips as he slid his hand over the younger of the two's spine.]
[ It was like his two worlds colliding, mashing into a sudden trainwreck that jerked him out of the moment, all warmth in his chest turning straight to ice as the sound of that voice chilled his bones.
As if Slade didn't already have a huge advantage over him here, now, he knew about J.
Dick pulled J back, stepped back to put some distance between them and Slade. He turned enough so he could shove J behind him, brows knitted together. ]
Don't look so fucking smug, Slade. It doesn't suit you.
[ J would easily pick up that there's history between them, but even J didn't know that he was law enforcement. That was a secret he hadn't uttered out loud to anyone here, not because he wanted to hide it from J, but because it was knowledge that would do J more harm than good at the moment. What if he was caught knowing it?
Of course, once they were off this ship, Dick planned to tell J everything. For now, all he could do wash push J toward the door. ]
[It was painfully obvious that Dick and this stranger had a history and J gasped at the blatant insult. To speak like that to someone who was plainly a passenger was something that didn't register in J's brain. He'd been onboard long enough that the indoctrinations had a tight grip on his sensibilities, something that was encouraged every time he looked in a mirror.
Still, he let himself be pulled back behind Dick, confusion clear on his features as he looked between the two men. He wanted to ask...but Dick pushed him away and Slade let him take a few unsteady steps before he reached out to close that large hand around J's upper arm.]
Don't be stupid, Richard. The lights gone green. He goes out by himself now... [He wasn't lying. The soft, LED running lights that lined the corridors had shifted from red to green, signaling to the passengers that the ship had officially crossed into international waters. Right on cue, there was a shrill, pained cry from somewhere on the crowded deck below them, followed by a chorus of laughter from passengers who were apparently watching.
J flinched, dropping his gaze to the deck as a muscle in his jaw twitched.]
Unless you're willing to sacrifice him to save your secret, of course.
[ Just like that, the whole ship got permission to enact their sickest, most twisted fantasies, and the nightmare started again. Except this time, what would happen to J was completely his fault. Dick turned to Slade when that tight grip yanked J back. Seeing the way J flinched had his stomach dropping like a rock.
Still, the stars stretched above them, watching, still bathing the three of them in a strange, cool glow. ]
I'm not saving my secret, I'm saving him. [ There was a harshness behind his voice, a sharp edge he'd never shown J before as his hands splayed at his sides, palms open. His greatest weapon, all those years of honing martial arts, was of no use here. He was at Slade's mercy, at the mercy of this ship. Fight and he'd instantly lose his life. J would lose his life. ]
You miss me so much you tracked me down? Wouldn't be surprised if it was all the way from Gotham. It's me you want. Let him go.
[ He looked at J, something breaking in his gaze, something pained and sorry. ]
He'll survive. He's survived years of this without me.
[Just like that, Dick understood exactly what his place was and Slade grinned as he used the grip on J's arm to draw the younger man back. Pulled that lanky, half grown form tight back against his chest so that he could keep eye contact with Dick while he buried his nose into J's curls. The kid smelled like sea salt and fear and the older man gave a low, rumbling chuckle as he let go of the kid's arm to instead wrap his arm around Jay's waist.]
Your boy smells scared, Richard. Tell him it's gunna be okay. Look into those pretty eyes of his and tell him that you're going to behave so that I have no reason to hurt him. Go on. Promise him.
[For his part, J made a small, disbelieving sound. He had no idea who the man who had him was, but he knew Dick. He knew Dick wasn't going to bow to someone just to protect him. Not again. Not after everything that Roman had done to them just because Dick had tried to help him.]
[ Tension pulled hard through his jaw when Slade pulled J back against him, and anger had him lowering his hands, balling tight into fists at his sides. His eyes slid from Slade to J, who looked confused and scared and bewildered at the same time. His reply didn't come right away, not because he wasn't willing to behave, but because he needed a moment to gather himself away from doing something rash.
Like surging forward to rip J away from Slade's claws, because J was his (a dangerous thought). Or sock Slade in the jaw before knocking him out and tossing him overboard (dangerous and stupid). He knew what this place was. Any of that would land them both dead.
A slow, resigned sigh had his lips parting for a beat of hesitation before the words came. ]
I...promise. [ his eyes went to Slade's arm around J's waist before up to those green eyes again. ] It's gonna be okay, Jay. Slade's not gonna hurt you--I'll do whatever it takes.
[ And to Slade: ]
Your word's questionable integrity is the only thing you've got going for you. Don't disappoint me now.
[ This wretched place could take everything from him, but he would still do anything to protect those he loves. With a blaze in his eyes, he slowly sank down, lowering to his knees one after another before he looked up at Slade. ]
[True to his word, by the time Dick made it back to his apartment the Red Hood uniform had been stashed and the only sign of Jason's presence was the sound of the shower running and a pair of boots by the door.]
[ Dick's footsteps hit the apeartment floor as he lets himself though the window since it was easier than taking all those steps or using the fire escape. There's a smirk as he hears the sound of the shower already running, Jason's sinful words still dancing in his head.
A hand reaches up to find the zipper of his nightwing uniform, and he undoes it, casually taking off every piece as he moves down the hallway to the shower. By the time he reached the bathroom, he was bare and naked. His heavy cock coming to life and already swinging between his legs as he pushed the door open and moved into the steam filled room. Dick resited the urge to call out to the other- after all, he'd said he had his eyes closed. Might as well lean into that kink of it all. His fingers curled into the glass door to tug it open to move into the shower proper, a hand coming down to find Jason's hair as he takes in the sight of him...
God.
How could he not want this sight?
His hips tilted forward to tease his cock against those lips in welcome. ]
[The kink of anonymity was not one that Jason actually enjoyed. Fortunately for Dick, even in the shower with the sound of the water all around him and two closed doors between him and Dick's entrance, Jason was still able to easily recognize the sound of Dick's movements through the space. His footsteps, his breathing. The way he took off his uniform and left it in a trail leading to the bathroom. He was smiling a little as the glass door popped open and when Dick's fingers tangled in his hair, he only leaned up into the touch.
The kink wasn't in not knowing who was about to use him. The kink was knowing exactly who's cock was sliding against his tongue and closing his mouth around it anyway. One hand came up to grip onto Dick's hip, then he was humming softly in appreciation as he started to work.]
[ He adored the way Jason reacted to him, even in a moment as small as the other leaning up into his touch. The silent affection the other showed him. There's a sharp intake of breath as the other's tongue slid along his cock and that mouth closed around it. Dick could feel himself getting harder and harder with every passing moment. His eyes dipped to watch the sight of that mouth fill with his cock- he wasn't sure he'd ever get over the sight of Jason like this, of how god damn good he looked like this. The hum ran down his cock as he gave a little swallow and a groan echoed around the bathroom.]
Fuck, Jay...
[ He spoke, breaking the silence anyway as he tilted his head forward to eagerly get more of him inside that perfect mouth.]
[The feeling of Dick hardening in his mouth was as addictive as it always was and Jason didn't even try to muffle his pleased sounds as he licked and kissed and nuzzled against the older man's cock. He even pulled back a little, trailing kisses and nips long the soft skin of Dick's inner thighs. Down one leg, back up the other before he finally flicked a little kitten lick against the tip of Dick's cock.]
Fucking love the way you taste, Dickie... so hungry for you. Been thinking about this all fucking day...
[He couldn't really open his eyes under the spray of the shower, but he still flashed his brother a wicked grin before he once more leaned forward and drew the older man back into his mouth with a sloppy hum of enjoyment.]
[ Dick groaned loudly as the younger boy teased and licked at his cock, his leg even tilting open as those lips left his cock and teased along his thigh. His head tilted forward so he didn't miss a single moment of what the other of doing, of any lick or bite. Of teasing touch of the other's lips and teeth. God, he already felt as hard as steel, and they had only just started. And even the others dirty words got his cock twitching happily. Dirty talk never failed to rile him up something fierce.]
Hm..Yeah? You should have told me sooner... I would have rushed home.
[ He felt a rush of desire at that wicked grin before those lips found his cock again and his hips tilted forward, pushing more of his cock into that mouth. His free hand reaching up to press against the wall as he rocked his hips into that mouth again and again.]
[Dick braced against the wall, hips rocking against his mouth and Jason groaned as he hollowed out his cheeks to create more suction. His hands came up to slide along the water slick skin of Dick's hips before circling around, blunt nails digging into the firm wonder that was his brother's ass. He encouraged the rocking, pulling Dick in closer to fuck further into his mouth.
He did so love it when Dick took what he wanted from him, after all. His own cock was heavy between his spread thighs and not all of the fluid that dripped from the tip was water from the shower. He tended to get messy when he was turned on. Messy and loud, though encouraging Dick to fuck his face put a damper on one of those tells.]
[There isn't an answering text. Instead, after not nearly enough minutes considering where he'd started from, the sound of a bike pulling up can be heard. He wouldn't usually park so close to the action, but if Dick was calling for evac, he was probably bad enough that he wouldn't want to hobble the few blocks to a more secure spot.
He wasn't in his full uniform, most of his armor and weapons left behind for his would be date, but he had his helmet and his jacket, as well as one of his 45s in a backup thigh rig. It wasn't his usual gun, but it would do.
He was up and off the bike as soon as it was stopped, heading for cover before he started scanned for his idiot brother.]
[He really shouldn't have called Jason for the evac. Not that Dick would've loved to crawl home, but worse than never letting him live it down....he might worry.
He will find things pleasantly on fire, a boat slowly sinking into the harbor, and various unconscious bodies littered about the pier like a beautiful picture. There's a whistle from the back of the building, a little like a bird song. Following it, Jason will find Nightwing wedged up against a wall, legs akimbo, smelling of blood. Still conscious and ready to tell Jason he's fine, though!!]
[On fire was usually more his style than Dick's and Jason smirked a little as he took in the chaos in a glance. It looked like he'd missed a hell of a party. He moved carefully, well aware that he was lacking any of his ballistic protection, but it seemed like the party had in fact come to an end. So, instead, he shifted his focus to finding Nightwing among the rubble.
That little whistle earned a small scoff, but Jason followed it easily, giving a low whistle of his own when he turned the corner and found his brother.]
Damn, birdie. You really need to learn when to call it a night.
[His voice modulator stripped the little bit of amusement from his words, but his hands were surprisingly gentle as he holstered his gun and started feeling for damage.]
[Ah, there he is. Dick's expression brightens when they meet eyes, and he raises a hand in greeting. If Jason pokes him long enough, he'll feel the couple of broken ribs, and what's certainly a stab wound in his abdomen. Dick tries to drag himself to his feet, though--]
Hey, I can only go through so many mid-life crisis without help. Thanks for this, man. I'll get out of your hair soon enough.
How medical do you want to go with this, cause I can go full medical XD Following your cue.
[The broken ribs were mostly standard, but the stab wound was something to be concerned about. Jason frowned as he tried to get a better look at the wound, a hand on Dick's chest to keep him seated as he carefully moved the ruined armor to see.]
Don't worry about it. Where would I be without dragged your ass out of a fire? Now shut up and stop trying to get up so I can see if you're leaking your guts or just bleeding.
not a prob! def won't be too graphic or knowledgeable pfft
[He sighs a little, wobbling where he's half standing, and let's Jason look him over. It isn't too bad, not too deep, but it stretches long around his torso and down]
My kit went down with the ship...and the bike. Just need something to stop all this.
XD No worries! I just don't want to squick you on accident
[So more of a slash than a stab. He can work with that. That meant the red stuff was just the normal red stuff and not anything...deeper. Tucking his shoulder in under Dick's armpit, he hauled the older vigilante up onto his feet, staying a little hunched so that Dick could use him as a crutch.
Honestly, it would be easier just to carry his brother's dumb ass, but that might injure Dick's pride beyond what he could heal from.]
Yeah, I got you. Let's get out of the burning building before hand, though. Smoke inhalation will kill you a lot faster than bleeding out from that scratch. Come on, my bikes just outside...
[But carrying him would have been so much faster. Not to mention much less strain on Jason. Those couple of inches of height he had on the other man were just enough to make being a crutch a true pain in the ass. But if it meant Dick didn't fight him, he'd deal with the side cramp from the awkward position later.]
I mean, you could have at least served food, but it's not terrible. I guess.
[He was smirking under his helmet, getting Dick down and out of the building and helping him to swing a leg over the back of his bike.]
You gunna be able to hold on or should I tie your wrists together?
[he's smiling-- through the pained grimace-- at the rather emotionless helmet, but he knows. he's familiar with the tone, even with the module to mask Jason's voice, and the years they've been apart-- he knows.
there's another pained grunt when he swings that long leg over, but he huffs]
Just because I still have the handcuffs....I can hold on, Jay.
[It was infuriating how easy it was to slip back in to working along side Dick and even Bruce. He'd been trained by them, molded by them. They fit together like puzzle pieces. His piece had been dunked in water and had dried a little funky, but with a little bit of work, the picture was still whole.
It just wasn't a picture that he knew anymore.
Settling himself on the saddle of his bike, he waited for Dick to get a good grip on him before he kicked the beast awake, taking off for his closest safehouse as the blue and red lights of the GCPD rounded the corner.]
[It's almost phenomenal how their pieces still fit to make the whole picture: cut and burned and drowned, when you put it together, they're all still there. Even as they change and move...and die. Is it the city that keeps them? Justice? The threads of family--?
Dick grabs Jason around the waist, not enough to squeeze, but if he keeps saying stuff like that, making him laugh while he's hurting so bad, he'll squeeze!]
[Death didn't change nearly as much as people thought it did. It's what happened afterwards that painted the world in a whole new light.
He drove, keeping the bike level and easy to hold onto for an injured party, keeping to the back alleys and narrow side passages that most people barely even knew existed. But they weren't most people. Gotham was theirs and they were hers and they knew her better than they knew themselves. No one stopped them as he pulled into a half built parking garage, cutting the bike's engine to let them coast easily into a half hidden parking spot.]
Come on, up you go. Almost there, then I can sew you shut.
[The world certainly isn't kind to them these days. But maybe Dick deserves it. Karma for all of it.
Still, he was able to stay conscious for the whole ride, and he's only a little dizzy when they come to a stop. So this is where Jason's laying his head sometimes? He tries not to worry...Jason's grown.]
Alright, alright. Shove the elderly, why don't you.
[He eases his leg from around the bike, wincing only slightly, and takes a gander around the place]
[It really was just a half built parking garage. It looked like the project had been started a few years back, but had stalled in the middle as tended to happen in Jason's neck of the city. Gang activity, permit pulling, lack of funding. Anyone's guess was as good as anyone else's in the Bowery. Jason had parked next to what would have been the elevator shaft, but surely there was no elevator?
There was no roof.
And yet, Jason still hauled the doors open and inside was a car waiting. It even had power, as proven once Jay had keyed in his security codes and the whole thing lit up before the door slid shut and they were lowered down into what had probably been designed as a break room for security. It wasn't a big space, but Jason had a cot shoved into one corner and a makeshift kitchenette in another. Lockers and gear lined the walls and a large table had been set up in the middle.
It was on the table that Jason helped Dick stretch out.]
Hey, you said it. Disarm your suit. I don't want to electrocute myself cutting you out of it if you can't peel it off. When was the last time you ate something? Do I need to worry about you puking on me while I stitch you up?
[He pulled off his helmet mid-question, setting it aside before he shrugged out of his jacket.]
[Dick shouldn't be impressed by this place-- the cot is a Lot-- but he hasn't picked up his jaw even upon being laid on the table. Possibly because his apartment still looks awful and he's lived there awhile, and it still doesn't look this impressive.
Dick stays quiet for a moment, a fond smile tilting the corners of his mouth as Jason asks his questions...and when the helmet comes off, he's immediately reaching over to fluff Jason's hair]
No puking. I ate earlier today. Good to see you, Jaybird.
[He was still shrugging out of the jacket when Dick started to ruffle his curls and for a moment, the gesture just....froze him. Not quite startled, but still off centered enough that it took a moment for his brain to reboot.
Blue tipped gloves catching the edge of the raised scar under the white patch helped that reboot along and Jay was quick to reach up and grab Dick's wrist in his hand. Not tight enough to hurt, but enough that Dick's fingers were safely off the only scar from before that actually still kinda hurt.]
I...sorry. It's, uh...a little sensitive.
[He let Dick's wrist go carefully, chewing his lower lip for an awkward moment before he cleared his throat and moved over to the sink to scrub his hands.]
[he'd traced the scar very briefly, felt the texture catch on the fabric of his suit-- he's froze as well, shocked by what he finds....what they continue to find out what Bruce continues to do.
Dick lets his hands settle in his lap for a second. He takes a deep breath, watches his brother's shoulders, that familiar shape of them-- just much broader.
The best he can do is to do as he said-- strip the top half of the suit off, and don't apologize. That'd just make it more awkward, wouldn't it?
The wound in his side is still sluggishly bleeding, curled down to one hip, cutting through various other old scars. His skin is already starting to purple.]
[That lack of apology is appreciated and by the time Dick was out of the top half of his suit and Jason was scrubbed up to his elbows, the awkwardness was starting to ebb. It was kinda nice, that quiet acceptance. It was so very different from the way he and Bruce tended to ramp each other up until one or both of them snapped.
Tossing away the paper towel he'd used to dry off his hands, Jason pulled a rather hefty looking toolbox from inside one of the lockers. It thumped hard against the table when Jason set it down and, when he flipped it open, it was full of medical supplies.]
I've got glue or sutures. Pick your poison. The sutures will leave less of a scar.
[Maybe it's the blood loss, maybe it's the explosions, maybe it's seeing his brother again like this, maybe it's Maybelline?
Dick isn't looking forward to all the fuss and mess, never does, but at least any fear he could have built over needles never got the chance to thrive. He gives a whistle when he spots all the equipment in the box.]
Well we both know I care so much about my looks. [an eyeroll] Whichever one'll have me up on my feet quicker.
[He rolled his eyes, shooting Dick a familiar lopsided smirk before he turned back to his supplies.]
I mean, you said it, not me.
[He set up quickly, pulling on gloves and laying out a sterile field to lay his tools out on before he was gesturing for Dick to lay back down and get comfortable so he could start cleaning out the slash.]
What was this, anyway? A pocket knife? You going soft in your old age?
[There might even be something a little soothing about the motions of getting tools ready. More if it's him on the table, and not one of the others. Those times are precarious, toes-on-the-edge moments.
Dick stretches out further, lets his arms dangle over the edges of the table.]
Me? Soft? I think it was some ceremonial knife, something different. And a couple of distractions.
[It was almost soothing, wasn't it? The hurt of getting patched back together after the night had gone harder then anticipated. All that was missing was Alfred's quiet reassurance and Bruce's tongue lashing.
Or maybe that last part had just been Jason. He'd never been a particularly good Robin, after all.]
That would explain why it was so dull. Is it still an active case or was the fire my clue that it's done?
[He fell easily into the habit of chattering to keep Dick distracted as he waited for the lidocaine to start dulling the edge of the pain as he worked.]
[He wonders when he's going to get Jason's lecture. Just because they've all tried to remove themselves from that shadow at one time or another, doesn't mean it hasn't followed them. The worry for one another certainly hasn't. For better or worse.]
Those guys shouldn't recover from that....for awhile, anyway.
[Dick would be waiting a while. The only thing that Jason might lecture him about was the fact that he waited until he was bleeding and broken before calling someone in. And maybe grill him a bit on how Dick managed to get his phone number.
Though, honestly, that lecture would probably go to Babs before it went anywhere else.]
Hn. Good. If they come back, hit me up. I've always like playing with fire, you know that.
[It was the closest Dick was going to get to a 'be careful and bring backup, idiot'.
He worked quietly and quickly, a lifetime of training and practice in his hands as he sewed up the wound and carefully wiped down the area in betadine before taping a bandage into place. Then it was a matter of helping Dick to sit up so he could wrap his entire torso in a compression bandage to keep his ribs in place and to help stop the knife wound from bleeding through the stitches.]
[And Babs is just going to love hearing it from these two. It's like a neverending cycle of lectures and disappointment.
Dick keeps the hissing and squirming to a minimum, perfectly still aside from a bit of shaking here and there, and when he's finally wrapped up, he tries not to exhale to deeply and give the bandage some slack. He offers Jason a relieved, if not tired, smile]
Thanks again, Jay. I know you were busy, but thanks for coming either way. If you want to put a bag over my head while you escort me out, I'll understand. [he chuckles]
[She deserved to get her ear chewed on a little for giving out his phone number. He was still mad at Bruce, after all. Dick, a little less so, but where one went, the other was sure to follow.
Still, he huffed a small laugh and shook his head as he started to clean up everything he'd used.]
You weren't bagged when I brought you here, what good would bagging you now do? Besides, it's just a safehouse. I can burn it and be in the wind by morning.
Please don't burn it down...! [There's something actually alarmed on his face, because he knows Jason will absolutely do that, without a second of hesitation.
It's still always better when they're laughing and not screaming at one another]
[He snorted, rolling his eyes a little as he threw away the trash and disposed of the used sharps in the bright red container that lived in the locker he'd pulled the tool box out of.]
Relax, birdie. Even if I did actually set it on fire, it's all concrete. Nothing will spread.
[He smirked to show that he wasn't being serious.]
[And what follows isn't a sigh of relief, but those broad shoulders do relax the tiniest bit. he's pulling the top half of the suit back on slowly, now, rolling one shoulder]
True, buildings just aren't what they used to be around here. Made of toilet paper and what, matchsticks? If you ever need a place, though... [he trails off]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
For Acrobatss
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[ It's an easy jab, but hey it's impossible to pass up as he smirked over at Jason for a few moments before he gave a little press of his lips at that next question.]
You mentioned it a few times last night.
I just wanted to say that I...should have treated you better. Reach out more. Danced with you at one.
(Sorry for the delay, my brain took a swerve. XD )
[He gestured to his mottled torso, huffing a little before he settled back to sip at his coffee. He'd been working undercover, embedding himself into a gang that was actively recruiting. He'd been expecting to get hazed and he hadn't been disappointed, but two weeks in and someone had started to get twitchy about the newbies.
The Bat had hit their weapons run and Jason had barely managed to drag out a couple of the younger greenhorns before he'd gotten snared with the rest. Jason had been lucky. The others, not so much. Though, nearly two months of work getting thrown out the window all because Bruce couldn't just fucking trust him had been a bitter pill to swallow.
Dick's words snapped him out of his brewing foul mood and he arched a surprised brow. And if his cheeks colored just a little, well...so fucking what?]
Nah, you were fine. I was the annoying little shit head that Bruce had scooped up out of the gutter and thrown at you. I would have hated me, too.
For Whatam_i
[He gave his boyfriend a tired smile, wrapping his towel around his waist before he was moving over to the closed toilet. He hissed a little when he sat down, the burns that seemed to trace the outline of his armor against his skin shifting uncomfortably.]
I don't blame you. Not even a little. But I also knew how bad it looked wasn't nearly as bad as it actually was. So, shower first. Now you can fuss all you like. But first, can I have a kiss?
[For being one of the most feared crime bosses in Gotham, Jason could pull off a fair decent set of puppy dog eyes.]
thank you for moving 💕
[He says with a sweet smile and bends down to kiss Jason, firmly and thoroughly.]
Now, you drink this while I get to work.
[A cup of hot tea is passed to Jason as Ed kneels down in front of him and starts to fuss and take care of the wounds, his hands working methodically yet gently.]
<3
Perfect. You know me so well, babe. Thank yo-Oh! Ouch..
[The burn wasn't terrible, but it would probably add to his scars in a few places. Mostly, he was just annoyed that wearing his armor for the next several days was going to be miserable.]
Remind me to look into fireproofing when I'm a little less likely to pass out on the toilet.
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[He suggests as he applies some antibacterial ointment to the burn before placing a bandage on top.]
For Auderes
[It had been less that Dick had sounded more coherent than he'd actually been, and more that Jason had let himself actually hear the words. Because there was an honesty that came with an addled state, be that drunkenness or concussion. And Dick had looked up at him with those fucking stupidly pretty blue eyes and he'd touched his face and...
The bagel was ash in his mouth and Jason frowned as he wrapped it back up in it's fancy parchment paper.]
Don't worry 'bout it. Just glad you're okay. Try to eat that. If you're gunna puke, do it somewhere easy to clean up. I've got some shit to do, so just... Lock up when you feel better, alright?
[He was lying. He'd fully intended on coming back, eating breakfast, and then trying to get Dick back into bed to sleep for a few more hours. But if Dick was going to regret the words from last night, Jason didn't want to be here when he remembered them.
There was always something to do in the Bowery.]
If you need anything, give me a call. Try to get some more sleep.
sorry this took so long! work is so busy this week
[ Dick still feels like he's way too slow, mentally and physically, frustratingly so. Technically it's probably a very slight difference from his baseline, but for someone like him, used to pushing himself so hard, to strive for the absolute limits of what he can tangibly achieve, even a marginal hindrance is a big deal. Worse, he knows that if he pushes it right now he'd be a mess, and at least he doesn't have an immediate incentive to try to put the suit back on, to get back out there, but getting through to Jason, not letting this moment go? That feels as important as anything could be.
He's aware that he's missed moments before. Too many. Times when he should have reached out and couldn't, because he felt guilty. Because he thought that he'd just be angrily slapped away. Because he was angry, too emotional to see things clearly when he really should have been the one capable of a rational view. ]
Jay, wait— [ He reaches, instinctively, for Jason's arm, or his hand, whatever happens to be close enough. ] Please.
[ He couldn't physically stop Jason from leaving even if he wanted to. It's not like that, he's not making demands. He's asking. ]
No worries ^_^ My brain also took a few days to reset.
When was the last time someone asked him for anything without just demanding it?
It was that more than the hand on his arm that made him stop, muscles tense under Dick's touch. He didn't pull away, though. He thought about it. It would have been easy, even if Dick wasn't concussed and recovering from what looked like a rather impressive beat down.
It was still weird, the whole 'taller' thing.
Huffing out a small, joyless laugh, he turned and let that grip on his arm guide him back to the table.]
Seriously, it's not a big deal. Just drop it. Eat your breakfast, Goldie.
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He's not dropping it. He can't, and he's pretty sure that he shouldn't. In the past it's been a lot easier to let go, or so he thought, and lately that's been weighing on his mind. That he shouldn't have let Jason drift away from him like that, no matter how tough it was to keep him close. The apparent difference between letting Jason have his space and letting him think that everyone was giving up on him was never clear enough, was it?
Dick doesn't have much of an appetite, even though Jason's right, he should eat. ]
Maybe it is a big deal to me.
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But for as well as the lesson had been beaten in to him -literally and figuratively- he was still unable to completely turn off his emotions. He'd never been able to and it had caused more than one fight between himself and Bruce. Garzonas hadn't been the first fight, but his death had been the first real accusation. It had hurt almost as much as being stripped of Robin and his desperate attempt to find some kind of connection to anyone had ended in Sheila Haywood using his vulnerability to earn herself Joker's good graces.
Later, the Pit had stripped away what little control he did have, so when Talia started to tell him all about how he'd never been mourned and how he'd been so easily replaced, the anger had just festered. Time and space had helped ease some of her skillful manipulations, but it was still so very hard to let himself just be.
But he'd reached out to Dick. He'd taken that first tentative step forward, showed his throat in a proverbial surrender to the alpha. He had to trust him, right? More importantly, he wanted to trust him.
He didn't pull his arm away from that gentle touch as he sat back down, though he kept his gaze firmly on his hastily re-wrapped bagel.]
....you said you missed me. Last night, when I was wrapping your ribs. You said that you were glad I was here because you missed me.
[His voice was small, but thick with emotion and the younger man cleared his throat and frowned down at his table, but he let Dick keep his arm.]
For Hosannas_of_anguish
Trust me, Doc. I'm doing this all proper like -because- it's you. Otherwise it would have literally been 'Scoop out half, throw in a scoop of flour and roughly the same amount of warm water, then stir'. Pretty sure your science degrees would have strangled me during my next session.
But yeah, last step is to add about 50g of -warm- water. Not hot. Don't kill my yeast. Stir it up, recap it loosely and I'll bring you a loaf of bread with my next session.
Bay leaves? Really? That actually works?
Re: For Hosannas_of_anguish
Understood, warm, not hot. I'm taking care of it, and sure. I won't say no to bread.
It always worked when I was younger, I would bet it would work here too. I have some I can trade you for the bread if you are low when you return. I was being hyperbolic when I said I don't cook. It is simply not much. Bay leaves are useful in soups.
[ The man will live on pizza rolls and spaghetti O's if allowed but having smoked half his life his sense of taste is kinda wrecked. ]
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Thank you. I mean it. I know it sounds stupid, but I've kept that thing alive for the last year.
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Why do I feel like I am arguing with children?
Perhaps you do, I did not look that close. Everything is put back and I relocked the door. Also, if you're that interested in the truck, you can see it on your next appointment. So long as you do not get shot or nearly die this time. Something to work towards.
Don't mention it. Seriously, don't tell anyone. However, you are welcome, it would be a shame to kill your edible science experiment.
[ He also purposely tipped every picture on his way out by 5 degrees just to see if Red Hood and Arsenal notice. ]
For Batsintheattic
[He'd be mad at himself later for the wave of reassurance that came from seeing Bruce's name light up on his screen. He answered halfway through the first ring, pressing it to his ear and, for just a moment, he let himself feel relieved at the sound of Bruce's voice.]
Y-yeah. I'm not going anywhere. I'm...
[There was a rumbling sound in the background of the call and Jason made a sound that he'd be embarrassed about later.]
Fuck... dad, please...
switching to prose, hope that's ok! easier for my to write it
"I'm coming," he said, voice low and as warm as he could manage. The emotion in him was undeniable, the clench in his throat when he swallowed. "Just stay with me, Jason."
Totally fine! ^_^
"I'm here. I'm...I'm here. I heard an explosion on the south side of the building, but it was muffled. Someone probably hit the building from the outside." Talking about it like it was a case was helping, the edge of panic in his voice calming a little. "Just bought this building, too. Damn-IT! Fuck! Shitshitshit...please, I can't do this again. I can't...dad. Dad, please..."
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"I'm ten blocks east of your position," he confirmed. He was a little further than that, but Jason didn't need to know. Bruce would make up the time if it killed him. "Talk to me about the building. What did you want with it?"
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In any other circumstance, Jason would be pissed that Bruce was in the Bowery. He'd be spitting curses and probably a few bullets to keep his secrets safe from the man who would no doubt judge them. Tonight, however, the building shifted under his feet and Jason made a high pitched sound that should have been impossible for such a broad chest.
"I-fuck! Sorry. Things are crumbling over head and I don't know how much longer I'm going to have signal. Northeast wall, ground level. So far the exterior wall is holding up, but it's starting to buckle a little. Look for the baby boxes. I was putting them in when all this went down.
Clinic. I was going to turn it into a clinic. The one I had on this side got hit a few months ago. People-shitshitshit. People need somewhere to go and the city won't fund anything past the Alley..."
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As Bruce ran and jumped and shot his grapple gun, his heart raced. If he failed Jason a second time...
No. He wouldn't allow himself to think of that. He would get there in time. He would save Jason. He would kill himself if it meant saving his wayward son.
"A clinic is much needed there. I can see that it gets the proper attention." I.e. funding from Bruce Wayne's bank account. "That should help with the rebuilding. We can do a fundraiser. I know how much you love dressing up for those." A joke. Keep the mood light. "Six blocks. Jason? Breathe. Nice and slow."
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Not that Jason was thinking about Joker at the moment. Or even about the scar on his throat that was his daily reminder of his ill-fated homecoming. He was thinking about how he'd been able to stand in his little pocket of safety at the start of the phone call, but now he was crouching, one hand reaching up as if to brace the tons of concrete and wood that was threatening to collapse on him. He was thinking about the cadence of Bruce's breathing and how soothing it was in his ear.
How he'd spent so many restless nights with his ear pressed against that massive chest to listen to that very cadence. How it would lull him to sleep like no other sound could. His breathing slowed a little, the little sounds of distress ebbing as he let himself listen to that breath now.
"You get me outta this and I'll let you dress me in whatever you want to dress me in." There was a low groan of straining metal overhead and Jason made a low, desperate sound...but when he spoke again, his voice was thick with emotion.
"If you don't make it, it's okay. It's okay. I don't blame you.
I never did."
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The promise of dressing Jason in whatever he wanted, which normally would have been high on his list of priorities, was reduced to background noise as he pushed himself beyond his usual physical limitations, flying across the skylines and getting closer with every second. He still feared it might be too late, but he'd do whatever it took. He would not lose Jason again.
"Four blocks," he relayed, breath shallow. Then a moment later, "Three," and again, "Two. I see the building." And it looked bad but he wasn't going to admit just how bad. He held it back as he descended towards the rubble. "I see where you're trapped. Jason? I'm coming. Make some noise for me."
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It was going to collapse.
It was going to crush him.
"Dad! Dad, I'm here!" He pounded on the wall that had slowly been turning from savior to tombstone. If he'd been just five feet away from the corner, he would have been able to rip out one of the freshly installed boxes, but that escape had closed off before he'd even been able to make the call. "I'm here! Over he-"
The rubble shifted and the line disconnected. He was alone. It was dark and the air tasted like concrete dust and dirt and he could almost feel the squelch of mud under his fist as he drove it again and again into the concrete of
his burial plotthe wall.From inside the crush of the building, Jason let out a terrified scream.
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He would get to Jason. He would get to Jason. He would--
The crash of rubble and the line disconnecting had Bruce letting go of the grapple before he'd pulled it out of the nearby rooftop, just letting the line dangle as he fell to the ground and landed hard on heavy-booted feet some distance from Jason. He clawed his way through the mess of debris, listening in panicked silence for Jason's voice below. He didn't hear anything. The panic swelled as he started grabbing bricks and hauling them away, his breath heavy as he struggled to clear a safe path to what was trapped beneath.
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He was dead. He was dead and buried and alone and he was going to die again. He was going to run out of air, run out of time and space and-
A twisting groan of metal from overhead snapped him out of his flashback, doing nothing to ease his panic but at least he could remember that he wasn't in his coffin. He wasn't in a suit that had been cut down the back to make it easier to dress him. He wasn't caked in makeup to hide the bruising that had turned black under his skin. He wasn't-
Something cascaded by his head and he screamed again, scrambling desperately at the wall. He ripped away drywall and splinters embedded themselves in his fingers as he broke away framing. He didn't feel the pain. Couldn't though the panic that fogged his existence. He couldn't feel the pain then, either, but he was trying hard to not let his mind fall back into itself again.
Something shifted and a sharp pain lanced through his leg as the ceiling finally made contact with his body....but then the wall was ripping away from the outside instead of just the inside and Jason reached out with bloody hands to catch familiar gauntlets.
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Once Bruce saw him, heard him, touched him, he knew he could get through this. They would both make it out alive.
"Easy," Bruce hummed, his voice a low balm to soothe Jason's obvious panic. "Easy, son, I'm right here." In any other situation, Bruce may have used the fear advantage to add in something like Daddy's here, but he was altogether too horrified by what he was seeing to focus on anything but saving Jason. That came first, his desires always last. "Give me your hands. That's it." Bruce calmly walked Jason through it, shouldering the weight of the rubble and easing it aside so he could grip Jason's arms firmly and haul him up into the light. "Watch your head," he added, cradling it on Jason's way up and out and then not giving a shit about what it looked like or if Jason might fight, he pulled Jason into him and held him tight. The black shadow of his cape, filthy from the rubble, whipped around them and covered them like a blanket. "I've got you," he promised. "I've got you."
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At that moment, he couldn't care about anything other then wrapping his arms around his father's bulk and sobbing into his shoulder.
"You came for me. Y-you-" His words didn't make much sense, really, panic babbles of 'I thought you weren't gunna make it' and 'Wanna go home's falling out of his lips.
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Bruce didn't go to Jason's safe houses. He knew a few of them (not all), but when Jason said 'home', Bruce was taking it seriously. His true home. Where he belonged, if Bruce had it his way.
They flew through the sky, over buildings and beyond the city limits until Bruce could get them into the Batmobile where he'd left it to speed them home. He didn't bother putting Jason into his own seat; just climbed into the driver's side with Jason still clinging to him like a child. And he drove all the way to the Manor that way and hefted Jason out of the car with him once they arrived, making his way to the med bay.
"Your leg needs looking at," he explained quietly. "I'm going to have to sit you down for that. All right?"
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The car ride jostled him enough to register that they probably weren't going to one of his own safe houses in the city, but he didn't argue. He'd fight later, when fear and exhaustion wasn't pulling at every cell in him, mingling with pain until it was all he could do to shift himself so that Bruce could still see to drive.
He was much, much bigger than he used to be when he'd ride in Bruce's lap. Not that he felt it. Not that he ever felt it when Bruce could still haul him around like the child he used to be.
He lost time in the car, his face tucked securely against Bruce's neck, so when the cockpit slid open and Bruce picked him up like he didn't weigh almost as much as Bruce himself, Jason only made a small, surprised sound when he blinked open his eyes and looked around at the cave.
"I...Yeah. Yeah, I'm okay." He shifted to help Bruce settle him on the hospital style bed, laying back so he could breath through the wave of pain that pulsed through him. It was the first time he'd really felt his leg and he found himself wishing for the calm quiet of the drive once more. "Fuck, it's mangled, isn't it? I...wasn't expecting you to bring me here..."
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When he returned to the table, he cut open Jason's pantleg and frowned down at the damage. It was in bad shape. He'd get X-rays to confirm, but as he prodded around at it, he was pretty sure it was going to need to be snapped back into place and Jason would likely be limping one-legged for a few months until it healed properly. The thought did occur to Bruce that maybe Jason would stay here, let Bruce take care of him...
But he couldn't allow himself to think that was a guarantee. Jason's moods were mercurial at best.
"I'm going to give you something for the pain," he said finally after a thorough investigation. "And then I'll take some x-rays and we'll go from there." He forced himself to look at Jason, directly in his eyes, still seeing the shimmer of tears in them but Jason certainly looked better now that he was out of the claustrophobic deluge. "All right?"
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It was something that used to chafe Dick to no end, but Jason had understood it. Even back in his booty shorts and pixie boots days. Instead, he let himself rest back against the bed, his body starting to communicate with him exactly how badly he was hurt. His hands were on fire, shards of wood and concrete debris still embedded in his fingers. His lungs ached from how much dust he'd inhaled. He was...He was in bad shape.
But he was alive.
He was alive because Bruce had come for him.
He reached up with one blood covered hand, knowing that Bruce wouldn't care that he left streaks on his face. "You saved me. You came for me. I...I was as good as dead in that building." His fingers trailed over the man's features, a slight tremble in them before all at once he was curling his fingers in the neck of the suit and using it to haul the broad man down.
The kiss was light, almost shy, but Jason initiated it.
"Knock me out. I'll move less and you'll be able to do a better job without me screaming loud enough to wake Alfred."
'I trust you'.
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The rumble of a groan left his lips as Jason pulled away, understanding why but ultimately disappointed as well. Anyway, Bruce already had a syringe in hand, easing it into Jason's thigh where the medicine would slide through his veins and ease him into a worry-free sleep.
"I'll be here," he said, his own free hand cupping Jason's cheek. "The entire time."
Bruce waited until Jason knocked out before he started on the leg, the fingers, undressing Jason efficiently so he could get to every single bruise and scab. Leg first, then he'd worry about the rest.
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They came together as they always had, needy and desperate. Each craving something that the other could almost offer. They'd lose themselves in each other's bodies and for a few short hours things were good. But then the Mission would continue and Jason would wake up alone to reports of Batman arriving on the scene of some petty crime halfway across the city and the cycle would start all over again.
But this time was different, right? Bruce had saved him. Had grappled across the city to pull him from a building that was going to slowly crush him to death. Bruce had chosen him, right?
Right?
He woke up slowly, his body heavy and sluggish with pain medication. It was just enough to knock off the edge and Jason groaned as he carefully started to process his injuries. His hands were bandaged, but not bound. His head hurt, but not badly enough for a concussion. Mostly, it was just his leg, which was reset and splinted all the way up to his hip. It was propped up on a pillow and half melted ice packs ran along either side.
He wasn't surprised that he was only in his underwear. Nor was he surprised to find himself staring at a familiar ceiling when he finally blinked open his eyes.
"B-Bruce?"
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"I'm right here, Jason," Bruce said, his voice low with promise as he approached the bed and looked down at the state of Jason. "How are you feeling?"
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He watched Bruce come towards him, his gaze flicking to that broad, marked up chest repeatedly. He hurt and he was drugged and he was exhausted, but Bruce had always been able to side step all of that. The man was beautiful. Powerful and commanding in a way that both set every instinct in Jason on edge and laid them out to relax at the same time.
Like cuddling up to a purring big cat.
"Like I was crushed by my own building. How bad is my leg?"
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Bruce took a seat on the edge of the bed beside Jason, his hips brushing Jason's almost casually. Almost like an accident. And when he reached out, it was to get Jason's pulse and feel for his fever, not just to linger and touch him again.
"I don't know yet who was beyond the explosions, but I'm close," he said. "I'll find them."
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He closed his eyes when Bruce sat next to him, soaking in the warmth of him. His hip against his own, his hands on his face.... To the casual observer, it would be almost clinical, but Jason knew better. He had known this man and his tastes for most of his life, after all. Keeping his eyes closed, he turned into the touch, brushing his lips against that large, calloused palm.
"Sionis or Dent. They're the only ones with the resources to know that I got that building. Maybe a few small time gangs I've been picking apart. Whoever did it thought it was empty, so they did it to send a message.
Stop. Just...stop. I'm too tired for this song and dance and you...you pulled me outta there and just fucking lay down and let me pretend I'm 14 again, okay? Let me pretend we're still us and I'm allowed to be comforted by your heartbeat again."
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"What is it that you're asking from me?" Bruce asked, his voice quiet enough to exist just between them. He wasn't sure if he was capable of holding Jason without making it something more, no matter the injuries.
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The last bit came out a little unsure. It was an offer he hadn't made since they'd started seeing each other again, too angry to trust himself and well aware that a layer of violence was expected between them. But if Bruce choking him on his cock got the man to lay the fuck down...well, it wouldn't be the first time.
"All I've ever fucking wanted was to feel like you loved me enough to chose me over your damned mission for one fucking night and it finally happens and you're making me talk about it. Fucking rude, B."
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He hummed in thought, already imagining this was not going to end well, but then again, it never did. So he eased onto the bed beside Jason, taking up more space than any human man should be capable of, and turning Jason carefully onto his side with his leg still propped up. No matter what they did, Jason had to keep it elevated and still to heal and the one thing Bruce wouldn't do was compromise Jason's future health for a fuck.
"Come here then," he said, knowing full well Jason couldn't exactly 'come here' like normal and that Bruce had to be the one to slide his hands around his waist and haul him close. Bruce's front to Jason's back, he put his body flush against Jason's, half-hard just from the sight of Jason if he was honest but just letting them both get situated first. One massive arm around Jason's middle, the other smoothing his hair out of his face. "I've got you."
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It was what he was good at. What he'd been doing to survive. Why the hell would Bruce Wayne keep him around if he wasn't warming his bed? It wasn't until he'd become Robin that Bruce had actually taken his offer seriously, but those early years? Just the two of them? It had been good. Yeah, it hurt, but it was a good hurt and it was different if Bruce was the one hurting him. It was different if Bruce was the one doing a lot of things to him. Bruce loved him.
It was why he'd taken the accusations of pushing Garzonas so personally. No. It was why he'd taken Bruce being so angry about Garzonas' death so personally. He hadn't pushed the man, but he wasn't sad to see him dead and...and it drove a wedge between them that had only gotten wider.
But for tonight, he wanted that wedge gone. Tonight, he wanted to curl up against Bruce's chest and pretend like their lives had gone a different direction. Pretend that they could have this, for just a few hours.
It hurt to roll onto his side, but with Bruce's strong hands to help him, he went easily. Having the broad warmth of Bruce's chest against his back was soothing and he sighed softly as he shifted back, threading the bandaged fingers of one hand into the hand that draped across his hips. The other got a small, almost shy brush of his lips before he closed his eyes and let himself relax back into that hold.
"I know you do. I know, dad."
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If he had it his way, he'd keep Jason locked up for his own entertainment only. To be used at his whims, loved so deeply that no one else could ever see.
"Tell me if it's too much." And that wasn't exactly because he was worried about Jason getting hurt (or not just because, anyway) but more because he liked being the one to both hurt and heal him.
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It had been being Robin that had given him enough sense of purpose that he'd looked away from that life of pampered play thing. He could help people. He did help people. And he was good at it. It was why he hadn't left Gotham when he'd decided to stop trying to kill Bruce and Tim. He was useful, a symbol to people that even Batman couldn't really touch.
Lips roamed his skin and Jason shivered and bowed his head to offer more space to be explored. His own body was sluggish, blood loss and shock keeping his cock soft and still in his underwear, but that didn't stop him from basking in the attention being offered.
"Yeah, that's usually what happens when you slit someone's throat. They stop being so easy." But for as harsh as his words could have been, his tone carried almost no heat at all. In fact, he arched his back a little, the hand laced with Bruce's guiding the larger man's up to his chest. His nipples had always been sensitive and their years of separation had only made them more so.
"It's okay, daddy. You can hurt me a little bit. I can take it..."
For Not_yet_screaming
[The reassurance earned her a tired smirk and he shook his head as he made his way to the bathroom.]
I listen to everything. And I don't think I need anything more than burn cream and a few bandages? We'll see after I scrub the worst of this off. I won't be long.
[He was true to his word, leaving the door open as he carefully peeled off his armor and stepped into the shower. It hurt, but as the grim came away, he started to be able to tell the difference between his own blood and the blood that he was caked in. By the time he was done, his skin was pink and clean, a line of burns that seemed to trace the outline of his armor amid all the rest of his various scars.
He had half a mind to wrap himself fully in another towel to spare her from the ragged line of the Y-incision that bisected his torso, but he didn't want to ruin another towel. She'd survive and if it really made her uncomfortable, then she could decide which towel to ruin. He wrapped his one towel firmly around his waist, then gingerly made his way back out into the main room.]
There. Little less like raw hamburger.
Managed to drop my tags - bad week, sorry
[She looked up from the laptop, her rapid typing not even slowing slightly as she blinked, cocking her head to one side.] That looks like an autopsy scar? [Her tone was part curious and part satisfied as if she'd had something confirmed] You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to.
For Ainissesthai
Mmm, I haven't gotten my hands on you all week, baby. I ain't gunna promise shit, but for you I'll at least try.
[His grin was openly flirty and he gave a playful little wink at the newbie. To his surprise, the other man shifted a little and glanced at Greene briefly before he shot them a quick smirk. The expression was gone before Greene looked back over at him and Jason's brow arched a little.
Interesting.]
Babe...how many other other people in your office are openly gay?
[Greene sputtered, looking a little like he'd bitten into a lemon.] I don't see how that is one, any of your business or two, pertinent to the conversation!
Really? Quote: It's not enough when your boyfriend is running up more costs. End quote. That sounds to me like he doesn't ask everyone else in your department for more than 'I need it'. What's that sound like to you, Larry?
[The newbie shifted, mumbling an excuse and gesturing with his pilfered plate before ducking out of the conversation.]
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Besides, Jason's presence came with other benefits. Edward hid his smile behind the flimsy paper cup of coffee he was nursing, listening to the sputtering of his personal headache. A moment later, it was just the three of them. He let a hand wander back to find Jason's side, drawing Greene's eyes to the touch.]
It does feel personal. [He tilted his head musingly, as if just now thinking things over.] One might even say targetted. That would reflect poorly on you if true. I'd hate for your new employer to think you could prove a liability to them.
[The man scowled, looking like he was considering a retort, but after a glance at Jason, he made a disgusted noise and spun on his heel.] Fine, you're not my problem soon anyway. Have fun explaining bankrupting your department when I'm gone, Nashton.
[Edward watched him leave, waiting till he was out of earshot to speak again.] I never fail to be impressed by your talent. I thought I was going to be stuck all night.
[Tossing his cup into a nearby bin, he turned and grabbed Jason's hand, drawing himself close to the larger man's side like they were actually a couple.] Let's head for the exit. I'll give you a bonus if you can get us out of here without anyone else bothering me.
[Surely not too difficult given the looks Jason drew from most of his coworkers but a little extra motivation wouldn't hurt.]
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It didn't endear him to the man at all. There was a reason he'd left that life as soon as he'd been able to and didn't go back to it, no matter how much easier it would be.
Smirking at Greene's retreating back, Jason turned his attention back to his would be date.]
I didn't know you had a function tonight or I would have tried to re-work my schedule.
[If he'd had enough time, he could have traded with Roy, but Roy had already made plans to take Lian to the botanical gardens. And really, who was he to deny his favorite niece time with her father? But he was there now and freedom was so close it was almost tangible.
Almost.
Wrapping his arm around Edward's waist, he started to navigate his way to the door. The dark ink that twisted up along both his arms combined with the silver in both his eyebrow and his lip cleared the path for them for the most part, but even that didn't dissuade everyone. Jason caught sight of a woman he recognized from previous nights like this one. She was smiling and heading their way, half waving as if to catch his attention and Jason remembered exactly how long the woman could talk when she got going.
He didn't let her have the chance.
He ducked his head like Edward was whispering in his ear...then laughed and tugged the older man around to face him. They hadn't talked about this and he wasn't 100% sure that he wasn't ruining their deal by overstepping, but he didn't let himself hesitate to draw the man into his arms and bow his head to kiss him.
Most people got uncomfortable when faced with public displays of affection. He was hoping that she was one of them.
Did that mean that he had to put quite so much passion and tongue into that kiss? No. But if he was only going to have one chance to kiss Edward, he was going to make it worthwhile.]
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[He forced the sulky look off his face as Jason wrapped an arm around him, and they made their way towards the door. It was easier to forget his irritation with the looks that most of his coworkers turned their way, looks that only encouraged Edward to smirk and press tighter against the younger man's side. It didn't matter that Jason had only come for the promised payment; he was getting Edward out of there, and that was all that mattered.
Although the opportunity to press himself against the solid wall of muscle that was his supposed boyfriend wasn't so bad either. It had been a while since Edward had had time for anything of the sort, be it a one-night stand or actually dating. It was frustrating to realise how badly he'd missed casual contact like this. But so long as Jason didn't know, he figured he could indulge a little.
His good mood abruptly soured when he caught sight of one of the wittering idiots that made up management approaching them. He was going to be stuck there for another hour at least if someone didn't-
Jason tugged him around, pulling him closer and before he could ask why there was a pair of lips pressed against his own.
Edward pressed into the kiss immediately, mouth opening at the first brush of Jason's tongue. This was another thing he'd missed, even as, in the back of his mind, he recognised the strategy for what it was. Jason was making a good show, and it would be a shame to waste the effort.
It was too easy to lose himself in the kiss, at least until a voice called from nearby-] Get a room already!
[Pulling away, Edward ignored the heat he could feel in his cheeks, keeping his eyes on Jason as he tugged them towards the door again.] Yes, I think we should before you give me any more ideas.
[The plan had been a success as no one stopped them as he dragged Jason quickly out to the elevator and down to the carpark. He only released the younger man when he'd dragged Jason over to where he could see the distinctive motorcycle parked. Edward came to a halt beside it, forcing himself to turn and smirk at Jason like he usually would.]
An expert rescue as usual. I should have called you in earlier.
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Fuck, Edward felt so fucking good.
Shoving his hands through his hair, the younger man let himself be dragged along. He didn't put up a fuss, keeping his arm looped around the smaller man's waist until they'd made it all the way down to his bike. Then Edward was letting go and twisting to turn around and for just a second Edward might see Jason's gaze lingering on his lips before the younger man made himself look away.]
Yeah. No, I mean, of course. My pleasure.
[He was smoother than this, dammit. Why did this man turn him into a stuttering idiot?
Taking a deep breath, he gnawed lightly on his lower lip for a moment before he glanced over to his bike.]
You know, I am pretty hungry. Wanna grab a bite? There's a burger joint a few blocks south of here that has amazing fries. Truffle butter or some shit like that.
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Snorting softly at the fumbling, he was about to turn to go find his car and save Jason the trouble of making an excuse to get away when the younger man spoke again. He glanced back in surprise, head tilting as he studied Jason. The company would be preferable to going home to his empty apartment to either work on his personal project or load up a game to play, and it had been some time since he'd eaten his quick lunch whilst poring over his work. He turned back with a deliberately casual shrug.]
I did offer you food. It would be unfair not to follow through after such a stellar performance.
[Even if Jason was just looking for a free meal, he hadn't been bad company in any of their previous meetings. If that changed with a more personal setting, that would help remind Edward that this was a practical arrangement, not anything else. And if it didn't, well, that would make future acts like tonight all the more convincing.
Stepping closer to Jason and the bike, Edward gave the latter a wary look.] As long as you thought to bring a spare helmet?
[Otherwise they were taking his car, no arguments.]
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Yeah? Great, I think you'll really like this place. Very modern.
[His own helmet, simple red with custom panels to make it fit closer to his skull, was hanging securely from it's lock on his frame. Holding up a finger, he turned back towards his bike, jiggling the janky lock on the storage bin until it finally flipped open. From inside, he pulled out a slightly smaller helmet. Green with purple edging, a full face shield to protect him from debris that managed to get past Jason's bulk.
Blushing slightly, he held out the helmet and cleared his throat. Honestly, all that was missing was digging his toe into the ground.]
This one should actually fit you better than the black one I've had you wear before. And it has a built in sound and walkie system, so we can talk while on the bike. If you want it, of course.
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I'll hold you to that.
[Blinking at the helmet that Jason produced, Edward took it carefully and examined it. The colour scheme was noteworthy... but green was hardly an unpopular choice. It certainly wasn't worth reading into what had to be a helmet chosen for a college friend who, like most people, was of smaller stature than Jason and happened to have similar tastes to Edward.]
I'm hardly going to ride without, am I? [Putting on his typical smirk, he quickly patted down his pockets to ensure he had everything he might need.] It will be refreshing to be able to talk to you and find out what's going on rather than waiting till we arrive.
[He tugged the helmet on and spread his arms for Jason to assess, trying not to seem too invested in the younger man's opinion.]
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That looks better than I was hoping it would. You are missing one thing, though.
[He shrugged out of his jacket, giving the leather a shake before he held it open for Edward to slid his arms in. It would be big on him, of course, and there was a scent of motor oil that clung to it, but it would protect Edward's nicer clothes as well as his torso should something happen.]
There, perfect. Well...Perfect until we can get you a better jacket. Mine is no where near nice enough for you, but it's all I got right now.
[He swung his leg over the bike, settling his weight onto the saddle as he pulled his own helmet on. He touched where his ear would be, then reached out to lightly do the same on Edward's.]
Test. Can you hear me?
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He tilted his head at Jason's assessment until the jacket was presented to him. Chuckling to himself - he really wasn't dressed for the ride, having not anticipated when he got ready that morning - he slid his arms into it and let it fold around him. Trying not to dwell on the lingering warmth or let Jason see him inhaling, trying to catch a hint of anything beneath the smell of motor oil.]
Mm, you can tell me where I should go shopping for one and help me pick it out.
[He wouldn't, of course. It would be foolish to invest in something like that for the sake of their act, but it was an enjoyable fantasy to indulge in for now.
Waiting as Jason settled himself on the bike, Edward nodded.] You're clear as can be.
[He sat himself behind Jason, arms winding around the younger man tightly. It wasn't his first time riding with Jason but there was still a little flicker of anxiety that came with doing so that at least saved him from needing to find an excuse for how close he pressed himself to the broad back in front of him.]
I'm ready to get some distance from here before they try and drag me back.
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[His smirk was audible and he shook his head as he reached up to flick his face shield down. He took a moment to make sure his passenger had a good grip, then he was turning over the engine and basking in the throaty growl the machine gave in the confines of the parking garage. For a split second he considered whipping out of the parking spot, but Edward had only ridden with him a couple of times and he rather liked the feeling of the smaller man against his back.
He kept it smooth and controlled, rolling easily through the garage until he was finally able to pull out onto the street.]
So, why does he hate you? Greene, I mean. He's obviously targeting you and I'm guessing it didn't actually start when you started showing up to work functions with a guy.
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Still holding tight as they left the garage, he huffed at the question.]
Hardly. He's gotten worse since then, but he disliked me from the moment I was hired over a barely-competent friend of his. [He shrugged.] He might have gotten over that if I hadn't immediately pointed out the idiocy of certain ideas he was pushing in front of most of upper management.
[With exactly that degree of tact.] Add in the fact I'm not willing to compromise the quality of my work to allow him to boast about reduced spending on the project, and he's taken to exerting petty authority wherever possible.
[Getting to vent his frustration served as a good distraction from any concerns over a potential fall at least, and Edward's grip around Jason had settled down into merely snug as he talked.] Once he's gone, I'll only have to deal with the idiots who want to pester me about socialising and 'team-building' at those things.
[His tone made it clear how distasteful that prospect still was.]
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Or, as reasonable as could be expected for someone who willingly threaded through Gotham traffic without a chassis to protect him.]
Sounds like it's past time for him to be moving on. I'm glad he finally is. The new kid seems like a better fit. He didn't push back too hard when I stole his food and he certainly didn't sneer when we touched. At the very least, I don't think he's a bigot. Hopefully, his accounting style will just that little bit more relaxed.
[They hit a stoplight and Jason sat up a little, leaning back into Edward's arms as he stretched his shoulders and flexed his arms. He hadn't been lying about being at work and he was stiff after working all day. The mechanic shop was small, but it was respected and they had clientele from all parts of Gotham, including Bristol. He and Roy both worked there and for as small as the place was, it went a long way to pay for their two bedroom apartment.
Before, Jason had filled that difference with overnight shifts at the warehouses, unloading pallets until 4 in the morning before going home to crash until 7 when he had to get up to get ready for his morning classes. Now, Edward filled in that gap and Jason had never been more thankful for actual time to sleep and study.]
I got a question. You hate the people there so much....have you ever thought about starting up on your own?
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He hummed at Jason's assessment of the replacement.] He does seem like he will be more tolerable at the very least. [A chuckle.] Or he just wanted to make a good impression on you. In which case I'll be calling you in more often.
[He shifted as Jason sat back, still keeping ahold of the younger man but allowing him to stretch out as needed. And if he found himself watching the play of muscles on Jason's arms, that was his business. He'd looked into the mechanic shop where Jason worked during his investigation of his companion's surprisingly sparse social media presence and had some idea of how busy it kept the younger man. It made sense of Jason's lack of online life compared to Edward's prolific posting across platforms.
He was pulled from his thoughts of social media stalking by the question, tensing up where he was pressed against Jason's back. Edward frowned, considering how much to share as the light turned, and they started moving again.] To do that, I need capital. Enough to get a company off the ground. I don't have that yet or enough connections to convince someone who does to fund me.
[He fidgeted unconsciously, fingers twisting together and toying with the fabric of Jason's shirt.] This project I'm working on. Once I finish it and it goes live, that will be my chance. They say there are already buyers interested, and I'll get a cut of whatever they sell it for. I built the thing from scratch, the money and the reputation I'll get, I can start something actually worth my time. [He shrugged, trying to sound nonchalant about the plan like it wasn't something he'd been thinking about for years but hadn't yet made a reality.] It's just a matter of seeing this through.
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In fact, the only social media posts that came up under 'Todd' were from his room mate and best friend. Usually pictures of him with a little girl, either candid or with Jay rolling his eyes and using the baby to hide his face. He was a private person, it would seem, which helped paint the picture of how exhausted he'd been when he'd first made his profile on the app that he and Edward had met through. Something had had to change or he was going to break. Fortunately, something had changed and Jason was very pleased that it had and not entirely because now he got to actually sleep.
He listened as he wove them through traffic, nodding a little as Edward explained why he'd been working so hard on this particular project. It made sense and he could hear the thin thread of eager excitement in Edward's voice...but there was a part of him that had spent too long at his dad's elbow during board meetings that questioned if the company was going to follow through with that 'promised' cut. Or if they'd change the percentage after the fact, before the contract could be drawn up. If Edward didn't have one already, it was a concern.
Covering those fidgeting fingers with his hand he gave them a reassuring squeeze as he leaned into the turn that took them off the street and into the parking lot for the surprisingly small little bistro.]
You know I'm double majoring in business finance and tax, right? If you want me to look over any contracts, I can. I can also recommend some really good finance lawyers who don't have that much of a retainer. If you're interested, of course. I'd hate for you to put all this work into this project and end up getting dicked over by upper management.
I really want to see you take that step.
[It was surprising how true that statement felt. Edward had never once taken him up on the traditional routes that most people took with situations like theirs. Jason wasn't a 'sugar baby', he was more of an employee. A mask to hide behind for functions like the one they'd just left. If Edward went into business for himself, there would be no work functions and, since Edward had no use for him outside of that, it would be back to the warehouses.
And yet, his words were genuine.]
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It was only the sheer exhaustion that had been obviously plaguing Jason when they met - and his ever-growing frustration with his coworkers - that had convinced Edward to contact the younger man again. Finding that handful of posts from Jason's roommate had further helped to dismiss those concerns, and now he thought nothing of going alone with Jason to some small, out-of-the-way restaurant.
He'd even gotten comfortable enough to share his future plans, things he'd shared with almost no one else. Hands stilling under Jason's, he breathed out slowly, surprised by the wave of relief that came when the younger man didn't mock the idea of starting on his own despite being the one to bring it up.]
I don't doubt your capability but it's fine. I've built the whole thing from the ground up. Engineering, bespoke programming, it's all me. If they want to implement any upgrades in the future without starting from scratch, they need me to teach the other programmers. Anything less, and it will be months of additional work just to be able to do basic troubleshooting once I've left. They'd be fools to take that risk.
[Edward distracted himself from Jason's baffling encouragement as the bike came to a halt, sitting back and dismounting, removing the helmet to pat at his hair. It was easier than dwelling on why Jason would care about his career and future plans. Leaving his current employer didn't benefit the younger man at all, and thanks to the NDAs in place, Jason knew barely anything about what Edward was working on. He'd call it an act, playing the part of the caring boyfriend, if it didn't sound so sincere. Which was still possible but if that were the case, Jason was missing his calling as an actor.
Clearing his throat once he'd done as much as he could to fix the mild case of helmet hair, Edward turned towards the entrance to the bistro. On a whim, he offered Jason his arm.] Shall we? I want to see if it lives up to the expectations you've set.
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[He followed Edward off the bike, taking off his own helmet and clipping it securely to it's lock. Edward's joined it and he made sure they were both secured and switched off before he turned back to the other man.
The sight of him fussing with his hair was endearing and Jason smiled as he reached up to give his own dark curls a little bit of a fluff. They didn't really need it, but this was the first time he was going to be out in public with Edward that wasn't a work function. The first time he just got to be himself instead of the punk biker flyboy that Edward had hired him to be. So what if he wanted to look a little presentable as he took that arm and let himself be lead into the building.
Inside, the bistro was a blend of sleek modern and wood classic and as they were greeted and taken back to a table, Jason found himself settling into his skin just that little bit more.]
Confession time: I've never actually been inside. Roy gets this place from Doordash at work. Which probably means I've tasted everything through a layer of garage grease, but hey...it was still delicious.
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Brushing those thoughts aside, he took in the interior of the bistro critically as they were led to their table. Edward settled himself in his seat and picked up the menu, giving Jason an amused look over it at the confession, lips twitching into a smirk.]
That makes me concerned for your tastebuds more than anything. If you ask them to bring you out some engine grease as a condiment, I'm leaving. [Despite the dig, he went on after another glance at the menu.] So what do you recommend?
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He smiled and thanked the hostess as he settled into his seat, taking a moment to unwrap his flatware so he could drape the napkin over one thigh. It was good manners, sure, but it was also just as simple as Jason being well aware of the fact that he'd wipe his hands on his jeans if he didn't have the napkin there. He was too used to wearing his work coveralls, which were already stained to all hell. What more was a little fry grease?
At the tease, he glanced up, feigning a bit of excitement as he twisted as if to find their waiter.]
You really think they'd have it?
[He grinned, that goofy lopsided thing from the parking garage instead of the sleezy, overly charismatic one from the party.]
A burger. That's what I'm getting, anyway. I stole a bite of Roy's last week and nearly fell off the jack I was sitting on.
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Snorting at the act and Jason's genuine smile, Edward shook his head in mock disapproval.] And that's praise - that you nearly experienced physical harm from a single bite of the food? I'm not any less worried about your sense of taste hearing that.
[He was still smirking as he waved the waiter over and ordered himself a burger, the promised truffle fries and an energy drink before looking expectantly at Jason. It didn't fit the image he tried to project among his coworkers, but it was surprisingly easy to relax and not worry about that with Jason. Maybe it was the times the younger man had listened to his frustrated complaints about those coworkers or knowing where Jason worked and what that entailed. He wouldn't examine it too closely, settling back in his seat and waiting for Jason to order. Once the waiter had left, he tilted his head curiously.]
What are your plans for the rest of the evening?
[Since Jason wouldn't be running off to another job after this. Presumably, some studying but it was possible there were other plans too.]
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To be fair, I think some engine grease might have made those cheap canapés your company serves actually edible. They seriously expect you guys to eat those? They taste like cardboard and fake caviar.
[He made a face, shaking his head as he reached out to grab a roll from the basket the waiter left behind.]
Well, Roy is taking Lian to the Gardens for the candlelight butterfly thing, so I'll have the apartment to myself for a few hours. I should study, I've got some tests coming up...but it's not often I get the kitchen to myself for any stretch of time, so I'll probably take the opportunity to restock our freezer. What about you? Any big plans in the works?
[Smearing butter on both halves of the torn open roll, he set one half on a saucer at Edward's elbow before biting into his own.]
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That's probably what they're made of. It's what happens when you want to present an image without paying the price that the reality would require. And yet they still insist on holding those events. [He sneered, the gripe a familiar one.] And I think most of those idiots don't care so long as there's free alcohol.
[Edward had no qualms with indulging a little at those functions when he wasn't driving home, but never to the extent that some did. He didn't particularly care to be impaired, particularly around people he disliked to start with.
Taking the half of the roll Jason had prepared, he took a bite as well, listening to the younger man's answer.] You spend your free time cooking?
[There was a note of amusement in his voice at the revelation. It wasn't what anyone would guess to look at Jason, but that was true of most of the things Edward knew about him, from his studies to his behaviour when not putting on an act.]
I have a few projects I'm working on. [He shrugged, once again trying to project a casual air. Jason wasn't likely to mock those projects when Edward was paying for the meal, but it had been a common enough refrain that it was hard not to expect it still.] I have a new puzzle box design I'm fine-tuning and some modding work I've nearly finished... But I'll probably get a headstart on testing for tomorrow, but there are still a lot of bugs to iron out before I'm ready to demo to investors.
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One drink wasn't enough to tilt his axis, but he made a good show of being just a little bit sloppy if Edward needed an excuse to stop talking to someone.
Smiling a little at the amusement in Edward's voice, Jason nodded and idly tore off a chunk of his roll to pop it between his lips. It wasn't the first time people got a look at his pierced eyebrow and tattooed arms and got surprised that he was the household cook. Usually those same people were just as surprised when he told them that he wasn't sleeping with Roy and did in fact sleep on the couch so that Lian could have her own room.]
Wait. Back up a second. You design puzzle boxes? Like actual puzzle boxes? That is so cool. I never even considered what it would take to design something like that, but fuck that is impressive. Would you let me see it sometime? I'll never be able to solve it, I'm sure, but I think it would be fascinating to see something like that be built."
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He blinked at Jason, freezing with the roll halfway to his mouth.] As a hobby, yes... As impressive as it is, it's not my most marketable skill.
[Edward got another moment to recover his balance when the waiter returned with their drinks. He'd expected the admission to be met with the typical confusion or polite disinterest that was the most common response - it was all better than sneering disdain for his 'idiotic waste of time'. But Jason was intent on surprising him tonight. Once the server had departed again, Edward set his roll down and cracked his energy drink open, not looking at Jason.]
If you're interested, you can have it when I'm done... I usually hide them in the city and leave clues on Reddit so people can find them. I put a code in each one so people can share and prove they solved it. There's a small community in Gotham that participates. [He glanced at Jason from the corner of his eye, assessing the younger man's reaction to that bit of frivolity.] Or I can show you the design process and construction if that's of more interest.
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[His rebuttal was interrupted by their drinks and he absently gave the waiter a practiced smile and 'thank you'. As soon as the man was gone, however, Jason's smile softened once more into his more genuine one as he unwrapped his straw and sipped at his lemonade.]
You know that most people don't care about your most 'marketable' skill, right? I think it's cool. And it's pretty clear that other people find it cool, too. On Reddit, you say? I'll have to look into it. It's like geocaching and Banksy had a love child. Very cool.
Hide it. I don't want to deprive people from what they enjoy. Besides, half the fun is finding it, right? Maybe I'll be the one to find it, who knows.
[He winked, grin widening a little before he chuckled and took another bite of his bread.]
But no hints. I don't want special treatment just because we're friends.
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[But the comparison was less important than Jason's easy acceptance of how he distributed the completed puzzle boxes. Even people who didn't consider making them a waste of time would often question why he wouldn't sell them, failing to see how watching the community race to solve the clues and be first to find the drop location could be worth more than however much the boxes might sell for.
Feeling inordinately pleased by Jason's interest and understanding, he grinned in return and gave an exaggerated scoff.] I don't give out hints to anyone. I'll let you know when I've hidden it, same as everyone. If you can't solve the puzzle based on the clues, you don't deserve to find it.
[Looking down his nose haughtily, Edward tried not to dwell on Jason's decision to label them 'friends'. It was hard not to overthink the word choice and question if it was meant genuinely or if Jason was playing the role he thought Edward wanted from him outside of company gatherings.
His smile slipped before he shook himself from his thoughts and looked back at the younger man.] You seem confident you'll have the free time to piece together the clues and find it.
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[He chuckled, leaning back and bringing his lemonade up for a sip. Which turned into a decent pull because it was late and he'd worked all day and the lemonade was really good. He didn't quite drain half the glass in one pull, but he did manage a good third of it. Maybe part of the reason for the lemonade over anything else was the simple fact that it was under the 'free refills' label on the menu.]
Mmm, good. I'd hate for someone to find out that you're giving me special treatment. Besides, I'm your friend but I'm not stupid. Maybe not as smart as some of my family, but I bet I could find it.
[The sudden fall of the other man's grin was abrupt and a little startling, but Jason only arched a brow and gave a little half shrug.]
Oh, I won't. You get your cut and start up your own place and I'm right back to the warehouse. But I might have some time come summer. Even if I do take summer courses, I won't be able to take a full course load. And, you know, just because I'll be working two jobs again doesn't mean you can't call me. Not for the app or anything, just...this. I like talking to you. You're fun.
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[So Edward was smarter than an unknown artist.
He toyed with the can in front of him as he watched Jason gulp down his drink with amusement he couldn't suppress. It seemed it really had been a long day at the garage, not that Edward had doubted as much. Curiosity flickered across Edward's face as Jason mentioned his family. The younger man had shared only slightly more on the topic than the nothing Edward had provided. It was a topic he avoided for good reason, but if Jason were going to bring it up, he could at least see what else might come to light.]
I'll be the one to make the determination of how you compare. If you can figure out the puzzle before anyone else. The last one wasn't found for almost four months, so I hope you're prepared to work for it.
[Because, of course, he made the clues to the location harder each time - what would be the point otherwise? Edward took a gulp of his energy drink to cover the way he mulled over Jason's words. The not-unreasonable assumption that once he was free of his current employer, he'd cut Jason free in return, dropping the younger man back where he'd started. He chose to sidestep the suggestion that Jason wanted to stay in contact without anything to gain from the arrangement for now, a different question coming to mind.]
You aren't planning on activating your profile again in that situation? I'm sure you'd have plenty of other interested parties willing to keep you from your Sisiphyian fate.
[A prospect that Edward had no feelings on whatsoever as he let his gaze drift about their surroundings, looking anywhere but at Jason.]
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[He smirked, the expression one of easy confidence. He could be competitive, but usually only when it came to his siblings or when he knew someone was about to fuck something up horribly because they don't want to listen. Something like this would be fun and if he found it, he found it. He would be disappointed if he didn't, but he wasn't going to hang himself up over it.
The question about his profile got an arched brow and a small shake of his head. It wasn't disgust, but he also was hoping to make it clear that wasn't really an option for him.]
Nah, I doubt it. It took two years of exhaustion to grind me down to where I made the profile to begin with. The only reason I took you up on your first request was because you seemed pretty clear on what the limits of said job were. You've given me a few months of sleep and time to actually study, pretty sure that'll get me through the next couple of years until I graduate.
[He gave an easy roll of one broad shoulder, reaching up to run his fingers through the mop of dark curls.]
I lucked out in finding you once, I'm not taking my chances to find someone like you a second time. So I guess it'll just be me and Sisi, shouldering up that hill. Good for the thighs.
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[Something Edward knew nothing about. He smirked at Jason in return, privately hoping that the younger man would be the one to find the next box. Not enough to make it any less challenging to do so... But it would be intriguing if Jason could solve his clues over the summer break. He'd need to prioritise completing and planting the box in his available free time; the last thing he wanted was for it to have to wait till after he'd gotten away from his current employer when seeing Jason would be... less certain.
Although perhaps less so than he'd thought. Edward frowned at the dismissal of the possibility, already overthinking Jason's reasoning, the fact he'd only accepted Edward's request out of desperation and because he'd known exactly what he was getting into. It was understandable, of course. Edward had had his reservations as well, wondering what scam he was going to be dragged into by the seeming ghost of a stranger. It wasn't something to get caught up in - they'd both gotten what they needed, and soon it would be time to move on.
Deliberately pushing aside those thoughts, Edward smirked and spread his hands.] It's true, I am without compare. And your labours won't be for eternity so I suppose you'll have a chance to appreciate that benefit. If improvement is even possible.
[He hadn't intended that last thought to slip out; it was only that Jason had drawn attention to said thighs. Thankfully, Edward was saved from needing to distract immediately by the server arriving with their food. Plates were set down in front of them both, and after a quick check, whether Jason needed a refill, they were alone again. Edward made a show of examining his meal, once again avoiding looking across the table.]
It looks promising, but you've set the bar high.
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[The smirk was now a grin, lopsided and relaxed. He'd never thought that an arrangement like theirs would have ended up with the two of them on their own time, teasing each other and-? Flirting? Maybe flirting? The compliment for his thighs certainly made it seem like they were flirting and he couldn't quite help the blush that spread over the bridge of his nose as he ducked his head to hide his smile.
It wasn't that desperation had driven him to Edward, after all. Desperation -and sleep deprivation mixed with a drink he really shouldn't have drank- had driven him to actually click on the link that a fellow student had accidentally sent out to the entire study group. That part was very true. But it had actually been Edward's profile that had gotten his attention. Well...no.
It had been those pretty green eyes in his profile picture that had gotten his slightly inebriated attention. The profile with it's well worded and fairly difficult riddle had kept it. He'd spent so long picking away at the surprisingly sophisticated riddle that by the time he'd sent the answer he wasn't even buzzed anymore, but his exhaustion hadn't felt quite as suffocating as it had. He'd closed his laptop and crawled into bed and by the time morning came, he'd almost forgotten the whole ill conceived thing.
Opening his laptop during class to see a notification of a message waiting for him had been a surprise and from there...well, from there the conversation had been all business. It had been reassuring and comfortable and he'd found himself saying 'yes' before he had time to remind himself of how horrible of an idea it really was.
The waiter coming back with their food made him blink and that blush spread a little as he cleared his throat and accepted the refill with a soft spoken 'thanks'. He'd gotten lost in his thoughts and the memory of exactly how long he'd spent picking through that riddle while also focusing far too intently on Edward's picture.]
Well, I'm a garbage disposal. Take my opinions with several grains of salt.
[But even telling Edward to not take him seriously did nothing to stop him from making a low, pleased sound as he took his first bite of the burger, his eyes closing as he chewed.]
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[As desperate as Edward had been for an escape from the work events driving him to the brink, he had been unwilling to waste his time on someone stupid. The point was to get away from the small-minded idiots; adding another to the mix would have helped nothing, even if they looked and acted the part. Someone without the wits required would have been just as likely to give him away or cause troubles with some of his more annoying coworkers. And there had been a small part of him that, as unlikely as it was, had thought maybe he'd meet someone... worth keeping around. He'd, just maybe, been a little lonely since he started work at Powers Technology and thrown himself whole-heartedly into proving his ability and ensuring he would soon be able to start his own business and put his talents to real use. Add in how his last relationship ended, and, well, he'd entertained the fantasy more than he should have.
Hence, the riddle on the profile and its associated offer. He hadn't expected much, believing that most of the people on the app were seeking or offering good looks more than brains. An assumption that several incorrect or deliberately flirtatious answers had reinforced. Jason's correct reply had been a surprise, the reality of him when they first met in person moreso. And the younger man continued to surprise him.
Smiling at the flush that spread over Jason's cheeks, Edward watched with amusement as the younger man let his enjoyment be known when he bit into his burger. Edward picked up his own, taking a bite before he could be caught watching Jason's pleasure at the meal.]
That salt isn't necessary today. [Smirking at Jason, he took a moment to enjoy the flavours before he found himself adding.] But I can put that claim of being a disposal unit to the test in the future if you really want.
[Not the best sounding offer.]
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And, occasionally, it got Edward to smile. As new as the expression was, Jason was pretty sure it was already one of his favorites.
Setting his burger down, he grabbed at his napkin to wipe his mouth before he chased his bite with another sip of lemonade and only then did he let himself smile back. And if a few of those freckles were still hanging out on the pink of the blush he was trying hard not to acknowledge, well...so what? There was nothing wrong with having a few freckles.]
I'm glad you like it. You have much better tastes than me, so I was a little afraid that I was hyping it up and you were going to hate it. Glad to know that maybe our tongues aren't that different after all. Gives me hope that letting you put my claim to the test will be as fun as it sounds.
I will give you a heads up, though. Even if I hate it, I'll still eat it. In my house, all mistakes get eaten, be they mistakes made while cooking or ordering.
[He smirked like it might have been a joke, but it wasn't. Like the horrible food at the work party before, once Jason put his fingers on something, he wasn't going to waste it.]
Might box it up so my niece can laugh at the faces I make while I eat it, though. I think that might be one of her favorite games, unfortunately.
/wanders back in here super late
Edward's burger sat forgotten in his hand as his gaze lingered on the flush colouring the younger man's cheeks and the freckles standing out against it endearingly. Until a dribble of sauce ran down his wrist to drip on his sleeve and watchband. Making an annoyed sound, he set his food down to grab a napkin and dab at the mess.]
I have excellent taste, true, but I spent enough time making do with what I could. So not that different even if now I can ensure I only ever have the best. However, I'll warn you that you might find that test less enjoyable than you think.
[He didn't look at Jason as he made the admission, thinking back to his early days in Gotham and, before that, his first experiences cooking for himself as a child. There had been enough days growing up where he only ate if he prepared himself something from what was available that he knew a thing or two about eating anything without complaint. Something that had been even more true when there was a risk of his father finding any thrown-out mistakes, the associated waste of money sure to provoke anger.
Hence the displeased look he gave Jason as he set down the crumpled napkin.] That's a ridiculous policy to have. If I give you something you don't like, don't choke it down.
[That might be an overstep. Huffing, Edward waved a hand and offered magnanimously-] Unless the child in question enjoys your display that much. But you can put on an equally effective show without needing to go method.
But did you bring Starbucks?
Food is food. The enjoyable part is the company.
[Had he really just said that?
He cleared his throat and glanced away and in doing so he missed the displeased look that told that the current of their conversation had hit a bend.]
I-?
[He was quick to look back, the blush replaced by a confused furrow to his brows.]
Edward, I didn't mean to upset you. I didn't mean that I wouldn't be honest with you, cause I will. I just- [He cut himself off with a small frown before he wiped his hands and reached forward to lightly touch the back of one of Edward's.]
For a while when I was a kid, we didn't have a whole lot. What we did have was a lot of out of date stuff from the food pantry. My mom wasn't the best of cooks, but we made it work.
I don't do it to that extent anymore, trust me when I say that I never want to taste another weevil again in my life, but I still have...issues with food waste. It's something I've been working on. If it won't kill me, I don't see any reason not to eat something.
If- if it really bothers you...I'll try? You might have to remind me, but I'll try.
ha, I'm too much of a coffee snob for that
Edward scoffed and shook his head.] You hardly upset me. If you wish to lie and inflict misery upon yourself, it's no concern of mine.
[He didn't pull away from Jason's touch; that would be giving credence to the idea he was in some way bothered by the topic. And the warmth of the younger man's hand against his own was not unwelcome.
Edward's lips twisted in disgust as Jason explained himself, the prospect of consuming weevils or worse, almost enough to ruin his appetite entirely. Any time food had been lacking in his parent's house, it had been due to their failure to buy groceries, and there had rarely been anything actively spoiled in the house. Maybe he could forgive Jason's attitude - the younger man was still on a tight budget, as Edward knew well. It was why they were there, why this had started in the first place. A far cry from his ability to have whatever groceries he liked delivered to his door. He huffed again and nudged Jason's hand.]
What you do on your own is no business of mine. I don't genuinely plan on feeding you anything unpleasant unless I- [He cut himself off, shaking his head and forcing a smile.] I'll make sure to remind you if we find ourselves sharing anything more than cheap canapés again.
[Which felt unlikely at the moment. Pulling his hand away, Edward picked up his burger again, determined to get the conversation away from uncomfortably personal territory.] But I could give you a chance to demonstrate your skill in the kitchen first so I know where to set the bar. Given I have no way of knowing that you can even prepare something edible.
XD Completely valid
Looking away to hide the bright flush of embarrassed shame, he pulled back his hand and once more used his lemonade to cover his inability to just be fucking normal. Why had he said all that? What on earth had given him the idea that this powerful, intelligent man in front of him had any desire to know his sordid history? Yeah, there had been a moment when it had felt like they'd shared something, but Edward's disgusted face made it exceptionally clear that he'd drastically misunderstood.]
Right, well...I don't think my cooking would be up to snuff, anyway. I cook for a six year old and my gear head of a best friend, I'm not a fancy guy. Better to just leave it up to the professionals.
[He managed a small smirk, though it didn't touch his eyes as he popped a fry into his mouth.]
So, when is Greene's last day? Please tell me they're throwing a party and I can 'accidentally' trip him into his own cake.
[Work was a much safer topic. He'd yet to choke on his own boots at one of Edward's work functions. It helped that he was playing a character and not trying to figure out how to be authentic. No one expected him to be anything more than a pierced and tatted hooligan and he could lean into that, just like when he'd still let his family drag him to events. It was a familiar role.]
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Huffing, Edward took another bite of his burger as if he could swallow down the feeling with it. Being interested in his puzzles only meant Jason wasn't an idiot; it didn't indicate anything more than that, as he should have remembered.]
Of course.
[His murmured agreement was deliberately disinterested, accepting the step back towards what was essentially a working relationship, if a better one than those at his actual place of employment.]
They will be having a farewell. If you can manage such a feat and make it seem like he's the one at fault, I'll pay you triple for the night.
[He met Jason's smirk with his own, looking back down at his food after a calculated moment of eye contact. There was no reason he couldn't still enjoy their transactional relationship within its boundaries. Even before tonight, when they'd spent little time together outside of the tedious functions, Jason had been good company. There was no reason that couldn't still be the case.]
Did he bother you that much in one conversation? I was beginning to think I was the only one who recognised how utterly insufferable he is.
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But there they were. Jason thinking that Edward was disgusted by his past and Edward thinking Jason had rebuked his attempt to push past the limits of their 'contract'. Later, at some far away date when they happened to look back, it would be understandable, maybe even a little humorous. The way they'd stumbled into a shared history only to have their traumas clash off of one another, throwing off the first sparks that would, hopefully, ignite the blaze.
They just had to survive finding their footing once more.
Following Edward's example, Jason took another bite of his burger. He chewed slowly, mostly to hide the small ping of hurt that came from that disinterested answer, but also because if he was chewing he couldn't embarrass himself further. The fact that a party was going to be had for Greene was a life raft that he clung to desperately, and he smiled a little as he shook his head.]
I can't tolerate bigots or assholes, so a bigoted asshole is a slap against my sensibilities. Keep your money, I'll knock him into his cake for free. [His expression softened a little, uncertainty in his eyes as he glanced back down at his plate.]
Hey...I'm sorry for randomly just dumping all that shit...before. You didn't sign up for that and I guess I kinda forgot that for a minute. Won't happen again, I promise.
[Olive branch extended, offered to help both of them across the pebble strewn path of the evening.]
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He chuckled at Jason's reply, the younger man's wit fortunately not discouraged by the slip. The promise was a good one, even if the refusal of extra money felt like another reminder of their boundaries. They had negotiated terms already, and it also wasn't unreasonable to think that extra payment might lead to extra expectations. Pushing away the flare of frustration and something worse (his father would have plenty to say about Edward having dinner with a man he had to pay to be there), Edward fell back on practised professionalism.]
I look forward to seeing it.
[His smirk disappeared, fading into a confused frown as Jason apologised. Staring at the younger man for a long moment, Edward set his burger down again.]
Why would that bother me? You're practically a ghost; it's more than I- [He... shouldn't admit to having tried to stalk Jason online. That didn't tend to go over very well.] Have learned about your history every other time we've spoken.
[But that was doubtless the issue. Waving a hand airily, Edward dismissed the issue.] You're a private person; I can respect that. [Given he had no option but to.] I'm hardly going to demand you start sharing everything with me. We're just sharing a meal after what's been a long day for us both.
[As much as a petulant part of him wanted to point out, it had been Jason's idea to get dinner in the first place. The excuse was there to take, a long day, some thoughtless words. Another easy way out of the awkwardness.]
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But the idea of just coasting by on his family's coattails was enough to make his stomach twist. No, he'd earn his living. Carve out a bit of life for himself. And that included Edward. He wasn't getting paid to have dinner with the older man. He'd asked first, after all, that meant that he was paying the bill.
It also meant that he wanted to be there, even if Edward couldn't see it.
Arching a brow, he picked up a fry and pointed it at his company.]
I just opened my mouth and trauma dumped on you, I don't think that really counts as 'private', Edward. [He took a bite out of his impromptu emphasis tool before pointing the bitten off end right back at the older man.] I'm...boring, mostly. At least, I try to be. My family is...loud. Being quiet is kinda nice. If you want to know something, just ask. I'll try to keep the 'poor kid from the Eastside' to a minimum.
Here, I'll even go first. What's your favorite color?
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The question earned an ever stronger reaction; Edward stared dubiously at Jason and looked down at his bright green button-down. It was a colour the younger man regularly saw him in, to go with his equally green car and phone and the rotation of mugs he kept at his desk. He looked back at Jason with that same dubious stare.]
That's not a serious question, is it? If you're going to ask me something, at least make it interesting. Let me show you how it's done.
[He took a gulp of his energy drink to give himself a moment to consider what to ask. Anything about family would invite the same in return, and Edward was in no hurry to share that mess. It didn't matter that Jason seemed to feel similarly self-conscious over the earlier confession and eager to avoid a repeat. Edward had barely spoken to anyone in Gotham about where he'd come from and what he'd left behind. He wasn't planning on changing that tonight.
Setting his drink down, he pointed at Jason.] What would you ideally do once you graduate if you had the freedom to choose anything you wanted without financial concerns?
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The awkwardness of his slip up was forgotten in the wake of his asinine question, the tension in the air lessening with each passing moment. Mission accomplished. He rewarded himself with the other half of his fry, waiting patiently for his company to ask his question.
When it finally came, he arched a brow of his own.]
I'd teach. English and literature, not finance. Middle school or maybe high school? It's stupid, I know, but you asked. [He gave a little, one shouldered shrug before picking up his burger for another bite. He wasn't going to be a teacher, but the notion was a nice one.]
If you could drop everything right now and just get on a plane, where would you go?
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Edward listened to Jason's answer, thinking of his past teachers. Most of them had been too underpaid and overworked to want to deal with him, joining the litany of others who'd wanted him to sit down and be silent, but there had briefly been one who'd encouraged him and given him his first taste of programming. Would his schooling have been different if they'd stuck around? It didn't matter any more, but he could see how some would claim the right teacher had an impact on their life for the better.]
Not stupid, I'd say, but maybe a sign of self-destructive impulses. Children are terrible.
[But Jason lived with one and presumably felt differently given the few pictures Edward had found of the younger man online, almost all featuring the young girl.
At Jason's question, he looked down and picked up his burger again.] Egypt. I'd like to see the Sphinx and visit some of the museums. Some of the oldest board games have been found in Egyptian tombs, you know.
[Jason hadn't expressed the expected disdain for his puzzle boxes, but Edward still kept his gaze lowered in case this was a step too far in childishness.] Would you leave Gotham if you could?
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He gave another shrug, but his smile softened into something more genuine when Edward didn't immediately shoot down the idea as idiotic.]
Kids can be little jerks, yeah....but some of them are pretty cool. I think you'd probably be able to tolerate Lian. She's basically my niece for all intent and purposes and she can hold better conversations than most adults. Takes after her daddy, for sure, little fucking geniuses, the both of them.
[He rolled his eyes fondly, affection radiating from him as he talked about Roy and Lian. That fond affection lingered as the conversation continued, lighting up anew at Edward's almost shy answer. It was very different than pretty much every other piece of body language that he'd ever seen from the older man and it was endearing to be able to see just a little bit past that snarky, toughened exterior.]
You know, I'm not surprised. Ancient Egyptians were pretty advanced. I would love to try my hand at reading some glyphs. Just settle in with a tablet and a notebook and completely forget the world around me for a few hours while you go off and have riddle games with the Sphinx.
[He wasn't wistful, exactly, but there was a hint of it in his tone. He hadn't lost himself in a language like that since the last time Alfred had given him a book in a completely new language and told him to 'sort it out, lad'. So lost was he in the idea of puzzling through the glyphs that he didn't stop to consider the fact that apparently they were taking this theoretical vacation together.]
I did, actually. I spent about five years overseas as a teenager. Before that, I dreamed of leaving Gotham, but when I finally made it back, I realized I missed it. I might leave again, one day, but if I do, it'll be on my own terms.
What is your idea of the ideal weekend? No work, just two days of whatever you want to do with whoever you want to do it with.
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[Edward's dubious expression made it clear he doubted that any child would be tolerable. Jason's clear bias towards the one he lived with made the claim of her capability and intelligence questionable at best. Edward couldn't believe she was that special when Jason was clearly very attached to both child and parent. And for all he'd carefully navigated, making sure there wasn't going to be trouble with Jason's... roommate prior to that first night out, the affection in the younger man's voice still sparked a sharp irritation that he refused to examine further.
Jason was able to lessen that irritation before it could truly fester, Edward smiling faintly at the image of matching wits with the Sphinx.]
I could lend you some books if you want to try your hand at translating some of the tales recovered from different tombs. It's not too dissimilar to code-breaking once you have the key.
[Honestly, Edward wasn't putting any thought into this theoretical vacation they were taking - it was pure fantasy if he were going to be able to engage in a game of riddles with a mythological creature so why not assume everyone they were even a little attached too was also there?]
What is there to miss? The smell? The crowds of small-minded idiots? The complete lack of imagination most people show?
[Edward huffed, waving a hand dismissively. He had come to Gotham from his birthplace and stayed there since but he wouldn't claim to have any affection for the city over anywhere else. What was surprising was that Jason had managed a five-year international trip. Even working to pay for everything whilst travelling, it would have been difficult to manage. But before he could ask, it was his turn to answer again. Leaning back, he considered the question, taking another bite before answering.]
I'd spend the first day working on my personal projects in the company of someone competent enough to understand what I'm doing without feeling the need to stick their nose in. Perhaps we could work on individual projects and then go out in the evening for dinner and a show or to visit a museum. The second day we'd play some games - something intellectually challenging - and I'd stream a game after. In the evening, we'd meet up with friends for a game night.
[Not the most exciting answer, but he doubted Jason would judge him for that. Eyeing the younger man up, Edward abandoned the formula they'd established to ask-] Tell me about your international travels. Five years is a long time for anyone to be overseas as a teenager.
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For all of that, he'd assured Edward that they were just friends and that wasn't a lie. The red head was more his brother than some of his actual brothers were, plus Roy had dated his older brother. It would be weird.]
Hey, if I had the time I would very much take you up on that offer. I love it and I want to say yes...but I also know that it would take me forever with my schedule what it is. I don't want to take your book for that long. The offer is very much appreciated, though. Thank you.
[He smiled, the expression lingering as he listened to the description of what sounded like a wonderful weekend.]
Honestly, that sounds so nice. Very peaceful and relaxing. Add in a pot of hot tea and a good book and I'd be sold on that exact weekend.
[No judgement, then. Maybe even a little wishful thinking, if his little wistful smile could be trusted. The smile was short lived, however, fading almost completely at the older man's follow up question.
He bought himself some time to think by taking a big bite of his burger, but then he was glancing up at his company with a little shrug.]
That is a very messy answer, actually. I don't want to make you uncomfortable again, but I also don't want you to think I'm hiding anything, cause I'm not.
The most sanitized version is: I got in a fight with my adoptive dad when I was fifteen. Ended up going to stay with a living biological relative. It was a mistake and I regret ever going, but I can't change what I did. I eventually got home and got my life back together. There is...a lot more to it, but that's the reader's digest version.
If you want to know more, you can ask me and I'll tell you, but I also don't blame you at all if you don't want to know more.
[He smirked, but the expression wasn't a kind one and he quickly took another bite to cover it.]
You stream games? Like on Twitch? What do you play?
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He nodded at Jason's refusal of his offer, not surprised by it. He knew how busy the younger man was - that they were there, eating a leisurely meal together was a surprise, let alone anything more than that. Much as he wasn't surprised, Jason appreciated the prospect of a peaceful weekend too.]
Somehow, I'm not at all surprised by that last addition.
[The more he saw of Jason, the more he was surprised; the younger man didn't have his nose in a book more often.
That amusement faded quickly at Jason's response to his question. Edward frowned, wondering if he was going to be told he'd overstepped again, but surprisingly, that wasn't the case. He listened quietly as Jason spoke, weighing up the words and taking his time to think after the younger man had fallen silent again. He was curious about the details but it was easy to see that it hadn't been a good or easy time for Jason. There were unpleasant memories there, and this wasn't the place for unloading dark personal secrets - if there was ever going to be an appropriate time and place. Edward was in no hurry to share certain personal details either, so he tilted his head at Jason in quiet understanding.]
I see. Well, there will be future opportunities to escape Gotham if you choose to.
[Given the awkwardness of the moment, he was eager to latch onto Jason's next question, scoffing and looking down his nose at Jason with exaggerated disdain.]
Obviously, on Twitch, what else would I use? Kick? I'm better than that. [Even if his subscriber count wasn't that high. He couldn't stream regularly enough for that.] I like anything that's a challenge. Puzzle games are the best - the Talos Principle games, and I've demonstrated some of the levels I've created for Portal 2 before. And the good Souls-like games - as well as the genre's progenitors, naturally. I've been looking at virtual reality, too, but there aren't a lot of games yet that use the platform in an interesting way - I have some ideas for puzzle games that would be an ideal fit, but that's all they are so far.
[Realising he was rambling a little, Edward took a quick bite of his burger, trying not to sound too invested when he asked-] Do you play any games?
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Though, that wasn't really fair to him. He hadn't been the one doing the blackmailing.
His thoughts threatened to spiral, to drag him down into those old memories like an anchor...but the older man's obvious joy about gaming was a balm to his heart and it was almost easy to smile as he picked through a few more fries. His past held no edge against that level of joy about something and he was grateful.]
I have no idea what 'kick' is, so I'm glad you're on Twitch. What's your name? Maybe I'll have some time to look you up. Watch you while you play.
[He was smiling, but he wasn't teasing. He was being as honest as he knew how to be, actually. The idea of pulling up one of Edward's streams after he stopped being able to see the man in person was actually a little nice. Like maybe he wouldn't have to let go of the man completely.]
I do, but probably nothing you'd play. Lian has picked up Mario Kart and has taken to completely kicking my ass for a match or two before bedtime. My brother got me to play Hades and that was fun. Oh! Actually, I have played Bloodborne. That's a Souls-like game, right? I died. A lot. But I have played it. Umm...I watched Roy play Skyrim, does that count?
[His smirk made it clear that he knew it didn't count at all, but he couldn't quite help the tease.]
What's your favorite book?
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Edward equally doubted Jason would be spending any time watching his streams, the question likely born from politeness and a desire to stay on Edward's good side during their arrangement. But he still hesitated before answering, wondering if Jason would see through the username.]
It's ENygma. With a y. [He'd thought about legally changing his name so many times but never had. It was hard to explain why when part of him wanted that distance from where he'd been - who he'd been - so badly. He'd filled out the paperwork more than once and wound up shredding it each time. Whether it was from some foolish illusion that he could go back to where he'd grown up one day and show his parents how wrong they'd been about him or concern over his new name not being taken seriously, he couldn't say, Whatever the reasoning and as unwise as it was, Jason would find the same username across multiple platforms all with a familiar face behind them if he cared to check. It was a name Edward had some attachment to, unofficial as it was.
Those concerns aside, he returned Jason's smile, brightening further at the games named.]
You and your brother have good taste even if your skills need improvement. [Which answered that question, as did Edward's huff.] Watching doesn't count. And Skyrim isn't challenging unless you don't know how to handle bugs. You need better entertainment.
[So maybe Jason would watch one of his streams after all... Would he appear in the chat? Edward would... not be keeping a closer-than-usual eye on it when he next streamed, but he would make sure to call out any newcomers. Just in case.]
I don't have a particular favourite book. I like a good mystery, but once you've solved it, there's no excitement in revisiting the story. The same goes for anything I've already read. What's the point if I know how it's going to end? There are some science fiction writers who present interesting ideas to grapple with, but I've never read their works more than once, either. [He shrugged, looking at Jason wryly.] A disappointing answer for you, I'm sure.
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Technically, he did have a page...but it was old and hadn't been updated since he'd starting using Todd over Wayne. No doubt the PR reps spun it and his lack of appearance at in person social events on his desire for privacy after the scandal of his time overseas and the resulting legal issues it caused.]
ENyg- [He cut himself off, a slow grin forming as he rolled the name around in his mouth a few times.] I see what you did there. Very clever, I like it. It suits you, Mr Puzzlebox.
[He had every intention of going home and figuring out how to use Twitch. It would cut into his cooking time but that was a sacrifice he was willing to make.
At the answer to his question, Jason nodded along...at least until the end. Then he frowned a little and sat up to reach for his lemonade.]
Not disappointing at all, actually. It's an issue when you have an eidetic memory. My brother --Hades, not Bloodborne-- has the same issue. He can rewatch comfort shows and movies, but not reread books. That doesn't stop you from enjoying a book, just means that rereading it doesn't hold the same joy for you. And there's nothing wrong with that.
I'm kinda the opposite. Rewatching shows or movies is boring unless it's something with a lot of depth, but rereading a favorite book feels like wrapping up in a favorite blanket. [For a moment, he considered leaving it there. After all, Edward hadn't asked a question. It didn't seem fair, though, and after a moment, he cleared his throat and gave a little one shouldered shrug.]
Anything written by Austen. Unless you're talking poetry, then it's Wild Geese by Mary Oliver.
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A little ball of tension sitting in his chest dissolved at Jason's grin, and Edward puffed up, oddly proud to hear the younger man thought the name suited him.] I needed something more fitting for my audience to use.
[Edward tilted his head as Jason mentioned the brother again - it was taking actual effort to keep himself from digging into the details of Jason's life, why, despite clearly having a decent relationship with this brother, the only things he knew about them was that they had decent taste in games and an eidetic memory. Jason hadn't shared as this was nothing but a job for him, but that didn't make Edward less curious.]
Mm, it is a burden. I can see why he enjoys roguelikes when they're not too repetitive. [He smiled as Jason answered the unasked question. Like many things about the younger man, the answer wasn't one most would guess to look at him. It was charming and intriguing how unexpected almost everything Edward learned about his companion was.] I've never been much of one for poetry. Perhaps you should pick something you think I'd like.
[He was curious what, if anything, Jason might choose.] Nor am I well-versed in Ms Austen's works - except for one. She wrote some appreciable riddles in Emma.
[Unsurprisingly, that was the main reason he'd picked up the book in question.]
What is one skill you don't possess but would most like to?
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And, through them, who he was. At least in the eyes of the public media. Never mind that he wasn't that person or that none of them were the people that were painted in those stories....the public didn't want to see the real people behind the Wayne name. They wanted their celebrity personas and nothing else. Jason had left it as soon as he'd been able to. It meant that he didn't see his family nearly as often as he wanted to, but they could still keep in contact.
Of course, none of his family knew about Edward. That would have been a disaster in and of itself.]
Emma was good, I enjoyed it. Pride and Prejudice will always hold a very special place in my heart, but that shouldn't come as any surprise. Mr. Darcy was my first crush.
[He grinned, holding a hand over his heart and pretending to swoon a little before he relaxed and tilted his head a little.] I'd love to be able to write. Really write. Any time I try, I can never translate what is in my head to paper.
But, one skill I'm not half bad at, is guessing what people might like. And I think I got something you'll appreciate.
[He pulled out his phone and spent a moment looking for something, then grinned and licked his lips. When he spoke again, it was with the rhythmic cadence of someone reciting.]
Know then thyself, presume not God to scan;
The proper study of Mankind is Man.
Placed on this isthmus of a middle state,
A Being darkly wise, and rudely great:
With too much knowledge for the Sceptic side,
With too much weakness for the Stoic's pride,
He hangs between; in doubt to act, or rest;
In doubt to deem himself a God, or Beast;
In doubt his mind and body to prefer;
Born but to die, and reas'ning but to err;
Whether he thinks to little, or too much;
Chaos of Thought and Passion, all confus'd;
Still by himself, abus'd or disabus'd;
Created half to rise and half to fall;
Great Lord of all things, yet a prey to all,
Sole judge of truth, in endless error hurl'd;
The glory, jest and riddle of the world.
[He took a sip of lemonade after he finished up, arching a brow as he leaned back in his seat.]
How'd I do?
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Was he? And what appealed most to you about him, hm?
[He tried to picture a young Jason curled over a book, blushing at what was on the page, but the image kept turning to the grown man before him. It was still an endearing image.
Tilting his head at the answer, Edward was about to probe further when Jason claimed to have that recommendation already. He waved his hand in a 'go ahead' motion, waiting quietly and picking at his fries as Jason looked up whatever poem had come to mind. When the younger man began his recitation, Edward stilled, listening to the words thoughtfully.
He was quiet as Jason finished and took a drink, a faint smile offering an answer before he spoke.]
You were right. You are good at guessing what people like to hear. [He chuckled.] An excellent riddle you chose.
[It was surprising that Jason could read him that well, given the nature of their relationship. One dinner hardly seemed enough to have such an understanding of him, but then, Edward hadn't been the one playing a part in their other engagements. No more than the one he wore whilst working, and it was a flimsy mask at that.]
Do you do that often, make recommendations?
[It was a fitting skill for someone who would like to be a teacher if he could.]
Lalala~ I totally didn't lose this in the midst of everything else~!
Sharp-witted, brilliant, a little bit narcissistic. The smartest man in the room and well aware of that fact. But still...awkward. Uninvited to join the close circle of co-workers, even if he'd wanted to, so he made it a point to never want to. To bring someone in to show off that he didn't have to join that circle because he had one of his own.
Sometimes being raised by a man who devoted his life to being a detective was a detriment for his social regulation.
Smirking a little, he shrugged his shoulder as he reached out to set his drink back down.]
I try not to, but I still somehow manage to make every single one of my siblings groan if I so much as suggest a book to them. Well, not every one. Dami has been spared. I moved out before he came around.
[He was from the system, right? Surely having a sibling 'come around' instead of simply being born was understandable, right?]
I read with Lian, though. She's a good chunk of the way through the Narnia series. I helped her pick it out a while ago and we read through the first couple together, but she's pretty much just reading to me now.
[He didn't bother trying to hide his proud smile as he finished off the last of his burger.]
lol it was your turn to do so, seems fair
It wasn't that Edward hadn't been paying attention to Jason as well, but the younger man was something of a mystery, so of course, his attention had been held. Jason kept surprising him at every turn, never what Edward expected, even after spending time around him. It was only tonight, with their impromptu mutual questioning, that he was getting the answers to some of those mysteries.
Such as hearing Jason talk about those siblings, including one adopted after his departure. Idly, Edward wondered at this adoptive father that, for all Jason had had a falling out with the man, clearly wasn't so terrible as many foster families in Gotham. And outside of Gotham. He didn't have to have ever been part of the system himself to know that.]
If they don't care to read, that's a failure on their part.
[Was it acceptable to criticise someone's siblings? He didn't know, but it was true. Edward at least knew to hold his tongue when it came to the child Jason cared for so much, only humming in acknowledgement.
Abandoning the last of his burger and fries, Edward drained the final dregs of his energy drink, glancing at his watch as he set the empty can down. Jason was no doubt eager to get home to the child and her father soon. Carefully wiping his hands on a napkin, he glanced around for a staff member to wave down for the bill.]
Well, this has been a pleasant diversion. [There wasn't any sarcasm in the words either, as there was when he expressed similar sentiments to most others.] I expect you're ready for your night alone in the kitchen now.
[He pulled out his phone to pay for their meal, feeling somehow both reinvigorated and disappointed that the night was coming to an end.]
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It left him feeling very isolated, most of the time. It was nice to be able to open up the part of himself that no one else ever got to see.]
A failure I tell them about every chance I get, believe me.
[Popping the last of his fries into his mouth, he hummed and nodded in agreement. It had been a pleasant diversion, even the parts where Jason had overstepped and shoved his own foot in his mouth.]
Oh, I don't know about being 'ready' to get home to my empty kitchen, but it's something that should be done. I don't mind cooking during the week, but cooking with Lian takes about twice as long as cooking alone does and some nights I have way more homework than time.
[He smirked, wiping his mouth with his napkin before shifting to reach into his pocket, pulling out his aging leather wallet and pulling a couple of bills from it.]
My ask, my treat. You can get it next time.
For Prettyredbird
Jason's laughter followed them through the city as the older man lead the way over rooftops. It wasn't a sound that many people had heard in recent years, and Tim had managed to coax it out of him twice in one night. Dick would be jealous, Bruce would be suspicious, but Jason was just enjoying the rare bit of levity.
Eventually, the run ended on a fire escape, the metal oddly stable considering how hard Jason's bulk hit it. Any other fire escape in his part of the city would have shuddered and creaked, rust flaking off weathered bolts, but this one barely twitched. The window was armed and a fake brick shifted away under Jason's touch so he could key in a code. There was a chirp and Jason slid the brick back into place before sliding the window open on well oiled tracks.
Inside was dark, but they were both well used to the dark. Tim ended up climbing into a living room, not barren and barely furnished like most of Jason's safehouses, but comfortable looking and decorated. Bookshelves lined most of the wall space, an overstuffed couch in the center of the space. Where most people would put a TV he had a desk with a computer set up, though the screen was large enough and the space small enough that he could probably scroll through Netflix with a wireless mouse. Art dotted what wall space wasn't claimed by books and Tim might recognize a couple as Damian's.
This wasn't a safehouse. This was his apartment. His home. The place no other Bat even knew existed, let alone had ever been inside.
Jason himself had crossed the space and rounded the bar into his kitchen, setting the bag of food on the counter before he reached up to thumb the hidden latch that let his helmet pop open enough to slide off his head. His hair was mussed but he was grinning as he set the helmet aside and shrugged out of his jacket.
"Thanks. I've been working on it for a while. Slow going between the shelters, clinics, and the night job. Take off your cape, stay awhile."
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As he took on the space, though, it slowly dawned on him that he hadn't been taken to some safehouse that would end up ditched in a few months. Jason trusted Tim enough to take him to his actual home. His heart stuttered almost painfully in his chest as he forced himself to suck in a breath. It nearly overwhelmed him for a second, being given such an important gift. Was it even done consciously, or had Jason come to trust him so much he didn't second guess the idea?
Okay, so he was definitely wrong about being on the same level as Dick and Bruce. There was no way those two knew about Jason's apartment, and Tim immediately told himself he'd die before he ever told them about its location. This was special. He was going to hold onto it like the rarest gem.
As his gaze finally turned back to the older man, Tim saw him standing there relaxed and smiling, sans jacket and helmet. The faintest of flushes bloomed onto his cheeks, but he didn't let the sight distract him for long. Instead, his own hands moved to work on stripping as much of his suit off as he could. Practiced, skilled fingers disabled traps and unhooked latches. His cape, the gloves, the belt, his staff, anything other than the skin tight kevlar was peeled off and politely set aside on a chair. There was a moment when he debated taking his top off as well, but it felt out of line to even ask if he could just hang around shirtless while visiting someone's apartment for the first time. Pity he didn't have any civvies.
"I can pour some drinks if you show me where the stuff is?" The younger of the two offered, stepping away from where he'd left most of his gear behind.
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"That is a great idea, but first let's shove this shit somewhere we don't have to look at it for the rest of the night. Come on, it's just upstairs." The secret wasn't going to remain secret for long, it would seem. And, apparently, Tim was welcome to stay long enough to make hanging his gear a viable option. Gathering up the discarded pieces of his kit, not bothering to take off the thick armor that protected his torso. It would be easier to transport it on him.
Leading the way down the short hall, he ignored the two open doors. The one to the right was a bathroom, while the corner of an unmade bed could be spotted through the door that was at the end of the hall. To the left, however, was a small set of stairs leading up and it was those stairs that Jason took.
Bruce had his Cave. Tim had his Nest. Jason, it seemed, had the upstairs apartment. It wasn't fancy or high tech, but it had room to do his weapon and armor maintenance. It also looked like it had roof access, which meant that Jason could have just brought Tim in this way instead of down into his main apartment.
Heading over to the table, he set down the gear in his arms before gesturing over at a couple of armor stands. "Feel free to hang him up to air out. As long as you don't mind stuff that is going to be way too big, there are civvies in the drawers. Bathroom is in that back corner if you want to shower. Don't take too long, if we let the garlic knots cool down, Nan will kick my ass later."
sorry it's so long, but, yk, ~~feelings~~ please don't feel like you gotta match!
As they entered the top floor he took a moment to appreciate the base that had been set up there. Tim was all about tech, hadn't wanted to lose his access to a super computer and crime lab when he moved out of the manor. Also, he was a giant nerd that lived for that sort of thing. There was a simplicity, though, in not having to worry about all of that. He allowed himself to take a good look around as he moved over to a stand and hung up the pieces that he stripped off. His boots were set next to it and his gaze turned to the shower. Whether or not Jason was aware of his little idiosyncrasies, he was thrilled at having them respected.
"I'll be quick." Tim promised, grabbing for some clothes from the drawer and making a bee-line for the bathroom that was tucked away. The kevlar was stripped off and set on a counter out of the way. As soon as the water was warm he ducked under it, quickly scrubbing away the sweat and grime that came with the job. He'd never been the type to luxuriate in long showers. They were a means to an end that got him clean.
The civvies were too big on him. He tied the pajama pants around his waist so they wouldn't slide off, and tugged on a t-shirt that seemed to dwarf him. As he toweled his dark hair dry, Tim caught a look at himself in the mirror. Immediately his cheeks flushed and there were tingles everywhere that cloth touched his skin. Jason's clothes. It wasn't at all an intimate thing to let a fellow vigilante borrow some civvies so they didn't sit around in their sweaty gear, yet the sight managed to strike Tim deep in his core, right in the spot that had always been desperate to belong to someone.
Fuck. Fuck.
It hadn't mattered how much he told himself not to do this, not to feel this way, he... he had never gotten over his thing for Jason, had he? Everything had started as a dumb elementary school crush, developed over nights of sneaking out to get pictures of Robin. The most amazing side-kick that had ever existed, the one who did a goofy little wave when he saw Tim and his dumb camera. Even when the guy had tried to kill him (more than once), it had never been quite enough to fully silence the stupid flutter in his chest. And as he got to know this Jason, the adult he'd grown into, it reignited those feelings into an inferno.
So, he was fucked.
Tim carefully hung the towel back on the rack and stepped back out of the bathroom, bare feet padding gently on the floor as he made his way to hang up the rest of his suit. Then he headed for wherever it was that Jason was waiting for him, looking a little more vulnerable than when he left.
Never apologize for novels. XD I love them! Also, TW for injury and medical shit.
He had his own, after all. Tim didn't take long in the shower, but in that short amount of time Jason had been busy with his own. He'd gone through his weapons, checking them over, cleaning any that he'd fired. He'd reloaded his clips and made sure that his load outs were in easy grabbing distance. His blades had an oiled cloth ran over them before he'd hung them back on the peg board. His helmet and armor were set up on their own stand, along with his holsters, gloves, and boots.
By the time that Tim came out of the bathroom, he'd stripped off his under layer and was in the process of stapling a small knife slash on his side shut. He preferred stitches but the angle made sewing himself up almost impossible, so three neat staples would have to do. It would scar more, but what was one more? His torso was already a collage of pain and injury, between the flash burns that dripped along his back to the thick Y-shaped incision that bisected his chest and stomach. Blades, gunshots, blunt force ripping- all of them had a place on his skin. One more knife wound would just fade into the narrative.
He caught sight of Tim as he was twisting to align a tegaderm dressing over the small wound and he sucked in a small breath. Tim was wearing his clothes. He'd known that, of course. He'd offered them. He'd fully been preparing himself to see the lithe man come out of the bathroom in them.
He hadn't prepared nearly enough.
"I.." What was he trying to say? He'd had something, something about letting him finish putting the dressing on and then he'd take a quick shower and then they could eat, but that single word was all that came out.
Really, it shouldn't have been a surprise when the thin plastic dressing crumpled in his suddenly clumsy fingers, sticking to itself and making Jason startle out of his stare to frown at it. "Well, shit."
❤️
As he grabbed for a disinfecting wipe, it occurred to him that perhaps Jason hadn't said anything because he didn't want any help. But, well, too bad. Tim could be just as stubborn as the rest of the Bats, if not worse. Still, he did his best to be gentle as he wiped down the wound. Jason might have already taken care of it, but it didn't hurt to have it cleaned up a second time before it was bandaged. Staph infections were the reason behind his insistence on showering off right after patrol; he wasn't going to lose Jason to one. Even if it got him bitched at.
The scars weren't terribly shocking to him. Not even the autopsy scar, as much as it different from anything on his own body. That made sense. Jason had died, of course they would perform an autopsy, but he wouldn't have felt it. Others must have been the result so much misfortune and pain. Tim felt empathy, sure, but more than that, they made him admire Jason all the more. The scars were a roadmap to the suffering he had endured in order to do what he felt was right. They didn't always agree on what that meant or the methods used to get there, but he never doubted the man's passion. It wasn't Tim's place to trace those scars with his fingertips, but he gazed at them with an open curiosity as he carefully smoothed the tegaderm over the stapled wound.
"There." Time seemed to slow down around him when he lifted his eyes to peer up at Jason again. There was something different about the way the other man was looking back at him. Tim wasn't sure exactly what it was, but he knew what his foolish heart was hoping for. God, it was so much easier to have feelings from someone from afar. When everything was so out of reach it wasn't worth dwelling on. Were they actually any closer now, though? Did Jason even like men? Even if he did, would he want Tim, of all people? The guy that he'd spent a not insignificant amount of time hating? He was just so bad at this. Didn't even know what to do with himself. "Did you get hurt anywhere else?" This time, when he spoke, his voice was softer. Like if he was too loud, he might wake and realize the whole thing had been some sort of dream.
He didn't even realize he hadn't pulled his hand away from Jason's side. Just kept looking up at him with so many different feelings swirling in his eyes like galaxies rotating through space.
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Jason had been all exuberant energy and unending drive to help people, but he'd never really been a detective. Not like Bruce or Dick and certainly not like Tim. He wasn't dumb, he knew that, but things that took Dick or Tim only seconds to connect his brain didn't see the connection for a minute. Tim had been the Robin that he could never have been, even if he hadn't died. He'd hated the idea that even if he had come home after that trip, Bruce probably still would have replaced him. He'd been a better son than partner.
At least, he'd thought. The batarang scar on his throat seemed to tell him otherwise every time he saw it in a mirror.
Tim stepped in close and helped himself to the oversized medical kit he'd spread out over the table. His stomach twisted and tightened in a way that had nothing to do with the sharp sting of antiseptic and everything to do with the fact that he could smell his own shampoo mingling with the undertones that had to be just Tim. He was still as the younger boy worked, letting himself be poked and prodded and finally bandaged...and then the distraction of his wound was gone and all that was left was the heat of Tim's hand soaking into his side. His eyes like crystalline lasers, making his very being twitch to be perceived so completely. His own cornflower blue eyes flicked down to trace full lips...and in doing so, the faint scar on Tim's neck caught his attention and doused him in ice cold reality.
He'd left that scar. He couldn't even remember exactly which time it was that he'd left it, but he knew that he had. He'd left that scar without a second thought and Pit influences be damned, he'd done it with intent. At the time, he'd been so out of his own mind with manipulated anger and absolutely no control of his own emotional regulation....but he'd still done it. The Pit had done a lot to him, but it hadn't ever forced his hand.
Pulling away, he rubbed at the back of his neck as he moved to cross the room and put space between them.
"Nah, I'm fine. Thanks, though. I'm...I'm gunna shower real quick and then we can head back downstairs. I didn't lock anything if you want to not wait for me." He grabbed clothes as he spoke, then closed the bathroom door almost before his last sentence was finished.
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Some sort of response bubbled in his throat, but he didn't manage to get anything out before the door closed between them. Tim took a moment, physically shaking it off like a dog after a bath. Shut down any possible thought of just going for it as soon as Jason was close enough again. Just so he could know for sure and stop having to dwell on it in the back of his mind. Rejection would be easier than not knowing. Then he could tell the little voice in the back of his head to shut up. But this was supposed to be bonding time, and he couldn't let his feelings make him do anything that could ruin it. The wrong move could sever everything the two had worked towards to be able to get along and work together.
It was hard to trust himself to behave when every cell in his body with singing with desire for him. Tim, who always had complete control over his emotions, who never let this sort of thing get in the way--he was floundering.
He didn't go anywhere. It didn't feel right to explore Jason's place in his absence, even as nosy as he was. Besides, it would be rude to go eat without him, especially when he'd been nice enough to let Tim shower off first. One of his hands reached to rub at his arm and his toes curled awkwardly against the floor. They just needed to eat, have a drink, and everything would be okay. He was determined to make everything okay.
Jay has issues and no one is surprised. XD
But how could he? How could anyone want to kiss someone like him? He was dead, for fuck's sake. Sure, he was better now, but it was all just borrowed time and he was under absolutely no delusions of out living the job. He was going to go down exactly like he did the first time and, more importantly, that was the death he deserved.
He was not a good person. Maybe he never had been, but he certainly wasn't now. He was trying to be better, trying to not let his anger overwhelm everything until all he knew was green...but it was hard and it was slow and he didn't deserve to kiss someone like Tim. Someone he'd hurt time and time again, not on accident but on purpose. With intent. He'd been aiming for his knife to sink into that elegant throat, why the hell did he think he had a right to caress it now instead?
Crossing over to the shower, he twisted the knob as hot as he could stand it, then twisted just a little bit more. The heat was quick to bite into his skin but he didn't let himself hiss as he stepped into the spray. He washed methodically and completely, letting the burn of the heat drive away the image of Tim looking up at him like he had been, all hopeful blue eyes and trust.
By the time the shower stopped, steam was leaking out from under the door. His skin was bright pink and a little shiny, steam coming off his red shoulders and wet hair. The towel scraped against sensitive skin, so he dried off enough to not drip before he pulled on a pair of sweats and the loose, comfortable t-shirt he'd grabbed. There was still steam in his hair when the bathroom door opened, but he was at least a little more settled in his own skin.
His smile was still haunted on his lips, however, so he kept it small so that Tim hopefully wouldn't notice.
"All clean. Ready for some food? I have some beers in the fridge, I think. Tequila, if you want it. I'm probably going to stick to Zesti, though."
babyyy :< meanwhile, tim: https://i.imgur.com/bGFAK1T.jpeg
His first instinct was to get the hell out of dodge. Emotions? Talking through things? Neither were Tim's strong suit. He wasn't Dick Grayson, couldn't go around hugging everyone too tight and demanding they say how they feel. Despite that, though, he didn't try to make an excuse to leave or bite his lip and following along silently. He wasn't timid or a fragile little waif unable to handle situations head on when the need called for it. A Robin who acted that way was bound to have been eaten alive.
Jason was unhappy with him. Had he realized that Tim had been close to leaning in for a kiss and felt disgusted? God, he didn't want to believe that. If the kiss thing was mostly in his head anyway, maybe Jason hadn't even realized it almost happened. It was about the bandaging, then. Tim must have misunderstood what he perceived as them having bonded and overstepped a line Jason felt was important. Fine. He could handle this. Then the rest of the night would go smoother.
The younger of the two steeled himself, took a breath and set his shoulders. "Honestly, I'd rather have a Zesti, but that's not the point." One of his hands waved as if brushing that off. Anxiety fizzled through his veins, but that was hardly a new feeling for him. He'd survive. "Jason, if you're mad about me helping bandage you, I--" A small snort, because he wasn't about to lie to try to make things easier. "I'm not going to apologize for it. I know I probably should have waited for you to say it was okay, but you needed help. If we're going to work together on things, you have to be willing to let me lend a hand. I know you don't like me much, but I want you to feel like you can trust me." At the last bit, his voice softened.
XD!!
He watched Tim steel himself, watched those bright blue eyes harden...and he frowned. "Bandage? What are you talking about, Timbers? Why would I be mad at you for helping me with a bandage?" Confusion was thick in his voice...but then he was thinking back to how lost Tim had looked as he'd ran to hide in the bathroom and suddenly things made a little more sense.
Well, shit.
Sighing, the older man scrubbed at his pink face with his hands, coaxing just a little more sharp ache out of the heated skin before he let his arms drop.
"I'm not mad at you and I do like you, so just wipe that stupidity right out of your head. I just...I tried to kill you, Tim. A lot. Got pretty damned close to it, too. I figured you wouldn't want me that close to you without a muzzle."
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There was caution in each step he took to get closer to Jason, but now he felt like there was a point to prove. "I'm not afraid of you, Jason. I like being near you." Tim paused just in front of him, and stared up at him with those big blue eyes of his again. "I can defend myself. I'm smart enough to know who I can trust. A lot of what happened went down the way it did because you were being manipulated, or trauma and the pit made you think it was an okay way to deal with your anger."
His hand reached forward to rest against Jason's bicep, establishing physical touch between the two of them. Nothing overwhelming, but there and solid and real. "Even if none of that was true, it wouldn't even matter. Because if I tried to punch you right now, I genuinely believe you'd do your best not to fight back too hard because you don't want to hurt me anymore." He couldn't help the little smirk that reappeared on his face. "And because I think you know I could kick your ass these days."
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And then Tim just had to go and sass and Jason's tension released with a surprised bark of laughter. It broke the heaviness in the air cleanly and completely and Jason offered a fond, lopsided smile to the younger man before he reached out to lightly knock his knuckles against Tim's bony shoulder.
"You couldn't kick my ass if I was blindfolded and handcuffed, pipsqueak. Come on, lets go shove some food in our faces and maybe pull up a movie? Gotta let those Zestis settle before you drive and all that." He was playful, but there was an undertone of gratitude under the flippant tone. He recognized better than most exactly how hard it was for any of them to really talk about things like that, so for Tim to dig down for that little speech...it had to mean something.
Something like maybe Tim really was comfortable with him. And maybe that was a bad idea, but Jason hoped that it wasn't.
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So Tim was smiling as the two of them made their way back down to the kitchen, back to the calm he'd felt before his moment gazing at himself in the mirror. A hunger pang struck him as he smelled the food again. He swore if he didn't eat soon he was going to start drooling. Still, he was raised with manners and just helped grab forks and drinks so they could get settled quicker. The look in his eyes made just how starving he felt pretty obvious, he was one hundred percent zeroed in on the food.
"What sort of movie do you want to watch?" This was new territory for the two of them, having to find something they could both enjoy. Not that Tim was terribly particular about what he watched, as long as it didn't bore him to the point that sleep started calling his name. "I'm willing to let you pick, but I'm definitely going to judge you based on what you decide." If Jason was going to argue for something based on classic literature, it better have some sort of action or something. Otherwise he was going to have to pry Tim's sleeping body off of his couch and dump him into Redbird himself.
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There was way more in that bag then Red Hood had ordered and Jason scoffed as he held out a box of canoli. "Put these in the fridge, please? I didn't know they were in there or I would have put them in when we got here. I knew she was going to try to feed you, I didn't think she was going to send home half her damned menu."
In the end, they both had plates of carbonara and garlic knots, small bowls of salad, and there was at least an entire entry sized container that Jason hadn't opened yet. He left the plates on the bar, balancing the leftovers carefully as he headed to put them away.
"If you're going to judge me for whatever I pick, I may as well just enjoy it, right? Star Trek: Generations. A decent bounce point if you've never seen the originals and almost the best of both casts in one movie. Plus, Guinan. You can never go wrong with Guinan."
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As soon as Jason picked what they were watching, Tim paused and looked a little suspicious. At first he wondered if perhaps Jason knew that Star Trek was one of his favorites and only picked it for that reason, but the moment he mentioned Guinan, Tim knew he was a real fan. "Of course I've seen the originals. The first movie wasn't great but Wrath of Khan? You should have seen how hard I cried the first time I saw Spock die." Poor baby Tim, emotionally attached to fictional characters in lieu of parents.
"I do like the Next Generation cast better though. Not sure if it was just because it was on TV a lot when I was younger or if they did a better job. Picard over Kirk all day every day. Guinan was great, but I always really liked Data, especially when you got to see him with Spot." Tim chattered along, clearly very happy to have one of his special interests catered to. He settled in and waited for Jason to have a seat so he could start eating. Just because he was well behaved enough not to actually stuff his face, didn't mean he didn't want to.
For Farcry
Actually stocked it, huh? Well, I'll wait to pass my impressions until I've seen what you've stocked it with, but that's a good start.
[He said it with a smirk, clearly teasing the older man a little, but he held his hand the entire way to the car. He touched him the entire drive back to the Tower, his arm threaded through the gap between Dick's side and where his cast was resting on the armrest so that Jason's hand could lay on his thigh. Not teasing or hinting or anything untoward. Just touching him. Keeping contact.
Getting the call that Dick had been hurt had shaken him up. After all, even something as simple as a broken arm, if it healed wrong it could change their lives forever. Dick wasn't worried, but Jason couldn't help the little line of dread that traced his spine.
Dick was the first of them to fly. It wouldn't be right if he was grounded.
It was that line of worry that distracted him enough to get him to step out of the elevator into that dark room....but then his instincts kicked in and he was in the process of dropping his bag and pulling the knife that he sure as hell shouldn't have been able to have on the plane. He didn't actually have time to throw it towards one of the people he could feel hiding, but it was a close thing.
He ended up freezing in the stance to throw for a solid second before he straightened up and turned to give Dick a wild look.]
I almost...! You-! You motherfucker, that was a bad idea on so many fucking levels and you are so lucky I didn't gut someone, you ass hat!
[The flare of anger was real. But so was the complicated, adrenaline filled grin that slowly crept over his lips.]
Ty!!
[ it's a bit of a new nickname he's trying and usually only mobilized in times of desperation, like now, as Jason pins him in place with wild eyes and so many mixed emotions Dick almost gets dizzy.
but he likes it. likes the taste of the nickname in his mouth, likes calling the fearsome Red Hood his baby, and also, likes the way that slow grin spreads across Jason’s face, lighting his features up.
it was a bad idea because spooking Jason in any way and catching him off guard could’ve resulted in any number of injuries. it’s why he instructed everyone to hide far from reach and to keep a keen eye out and react quickly if something were to go wrong.
Dick steps in closer to Jason to the chorus of laughter from their friends, takes his brother’s face in both his hands, and plants a deep, loving kiss to his lips. ]
I’m proud of you. And I’m really happy you didn’t ruin your own surprise. When you insisted on coming a week early ‘cus I broke my forearm, I was worried we wouldn’t pull it off.
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But 'baby' was brand new and so very public and even as terrified as Jason was at almost skewering their friends, it's use got a little swarm of butterflies to stir in his belly. He blushed across just the bridge of his nose, his freckles standing out against the flushed skin as he put away his knife and leaned into that kiss.]
Don't ever do something like that again, okay? Breaking yourself or making me accidently kill our family is a bitch move, Big Bird. [He soothed his words with another soft kiss, breaking away with a laugh when Roy gagged and threw a couch pillow at them.]
We've got cake to eat! You can suck face later!
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He loved this man so much. ]
Alright, alright. [ he pulled away reluctantly with a final little smile at Jason. They’d pick this up later. For now, he laced their fingers together and tugged Jason by the hand over to the table, where Roy had placed the huge cake with its lopsided candles. ]
Sit, Jay.
[ He pulled out the chair at the head of the table, and Rachel was already snapping away with her Polaroid, no doubt capturing the amused expression on Dick’s face as he pressed Jason down into it by the shoulders. Kory lit the candles and they started to sing, their voices an out of tune chorus making Dick laugh. ]
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Alfred had made him a big cake the first birthday he'd spent with Bruce and that had been nice, but he'd felt guilty for the gifts that Bruce had given him. He'd quietly asked for something lower key, and the following years had been just that. Just the three of them, playing board games and eating cupcakes.
He hadn't even thought about his birthday after he'd woken up with Talia. How did one judge age when one had been dead for six months? Brain dead for another two years? He'd woken up at fifteen in an eighteen year old body and the disconnect had been enough that he hadn't wanted anything to do with his birthday.
Dick pushed him into that chair, Kori lit the candles, and voices fought with each other in a song he hadn't heard since he was eight and his chest was so tight, it took him three tries to be able to blow out the little flames. His throat was tight, but he still made himself smile as he stood up.]
You guys go ahead and cut into it, I..I need to- Piss. I need to piss. Long flight and everything.
[He didn't look back as he bolted for their bedroom, closing the door behind him before sinking to the floor to try and figure out how to breath again.]
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Roy was the only one who seemed to pick up on it, besides him, and gave him a sympathetic little pat on the shoulder as he watched Jason scurry off. To go or to stay? Did Jason want a moment to himself? Probably, but Dick couldn’t stomach the idea of staying here when there was something wrong.
He hadn’t been around for any of Jason’s birthdays before he died, but he could guess that it had never been a big thing for him. Birthdays carried a lot of weight for people, even for himself, as they would always remind him of his days in the circus, of being surrounded by his parents and his found family. He’s managed to make it something similar now, and accepted how it’s changed. He wanted to do the same for Jason, but he can see now, in the way Jason struggled with his reaction, that it may not have been the best plan to begin with.
Perhaps the surprise, and the crowd, and the cake was too much. Perhaps he should’ve known better.
He felt guilty for it, and hesitated outside the bedroom door before knocking softly. ]
Jason? It’s me.
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The knock didn't come as a surprise and Jason took a moment to draw in a few more grounding breaths before he trusted himself to speak.]
Yeah, come on in. [When the door opened and proved him correct about who was on the other side of it, Jason managed a smile and shifted to lean back against the bed.] I'm okay. I just...I needed to take a minute. Come sit with me?
sorry for the slow... i went on vacay ;u;
The door clicked shut behind him as Dick stepped into their bedroom and quietly sat down beside Jason. He tipped his head against Jason's shoulder and laid a warm hand on Jason's thigh. He sat quiet for a moment, before speaking. ]
It's also okay if you're not okay, you know.
You are totally fine, bb ^_^
It said a lot that he not only welcomed Dick into his space, but actually sought out his touch.
He smirked when Dick reassured him, but it wasn't a negative expression. If anything, it was fondness that came through in his tone.]
I know, Dickie. And for a moment, I wasn't...but this is helping. A couple minutes of quiet can soothe the savage beast and all that.
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He has also learned, too, not to always take that pain so personally. When Jason needed space, Dick was learning to give it to him, to patiently stay by Jason's side, even if sometimes it wasn't physically. He was starting to understand better and better where those needs came from. And the more Jason accepted Dick in these moments, the more he loved his brother.
Those words made him smile. A huff of laughter fondly pressed against Jason's hair as he dropped a kiss atop his boyfriend's head. ]
Hey. That's my savage beast you're talking about.
[ he set his hand on Jason's thigh, squeezing gently with the quiet tease. ]
Listen. I'm sorry, Jay. It wasn't my brightest moment to throw you a surprise party.
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In the end, he'd gone to see Harley and she'd helped. A lot. She was still crazy, of course, but so was he. She was still one of the best psychologists that Gotham had ever seen. Plus, she had personal insight on how being mentally and physically tortured by Joker tended to fuck someone up. Sessions didn't always end well, but they ended well often enough that Jason was learning how to manage some of his more deadly reactions.
Chuckling softly, he relaxed against the older man's side, keeping his eyes closed as he soaked up his brother's warmth.]
It's not the party, Dickie. I love the party. The fact that you got Roy here without him spilling the entire operation is fucking impressive. I just...it was a lot, for a moment. The 'surprise' part might have been a little too much, that's all. I really did almost gut poor Gar.
[And it was that more than the surprise that was getting to him, really. The fact that even on his good days, he was still so undeniably dangerous. He wasn't safe to be around and sometimes that fact hit a little harder than other times.]
How much do you want to bet Roy cut himself a slice out of the damned middle of my cake like a heathen?
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I should've known it would be too much but--you didn't, though. Gar is fine. You controlled it, and you came here, and you calmed down.
[ Dick shifted to wrap his arms around Jason instead and took those broad shoulders into his embrace. Even this was new, being able to hold Jason through these difficult moments rather than only being able to sit and watch. Perhaps it was selfish that he wanted this, to feel like he was actually helping instead of useless. It probably said more about him than about Jason.
Though he could always count on Roy to lighten up the moment. Even when he wasn't here. ]
You never know. Might not be too late to try and stop him, though. If you want to.
[ He dropped a kiss atop Jason's head again. ]
I'm also more than happy to stay here for a bit. I didn't even get a chance to tell you how much I missed you. So fucking cute you insisted on coming so soon.
For Hosannas_of_anguish
[If he'd been in his armor, he sure as hell wouldn't be sporting stitches from crow talons. It was cool enough outside at night that he'd started wearing his jacket again when he went out as Red Hood, and that leather was old and patched to all hell, but it was durable and very well taken care of.
Glancing up from his bowl, Jason smirked.]
'Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn.' [Once again, his love of languages and grasp of accents proved useful. He didn't have a spot on Clark Gable, but it was passable enough. He chuckled, shaking his head a little as he went back to his food.] Still, I'll keep the mask for now. Just because you don't care doesn't mean it wouldn't feel really weird if I didn't care. And I shouldn't have to start any rumors. Jace Peters works for Hood, don't you know. My people will vouch for me if someone starts sniffing around. Though, they'd have to be really fucking brave to poke around my part of the city.
[He was quiet, listening to Jon talk. Usually, it was him spilling his guts, not the stoic strawman. It was a little weird...but also kinda nice. Made him more human, in a way.]
Not all teachers need to be kind. My favorite teacher was this brittle old bitty with a fondness for rulers and a stickler for grammar. She'd fucking roll in her grave if she saw me now.
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A half glare offered. ] Close, do it again, with feeling.
[ If Jason was going to do Clark Gable at the Georgian, oh, he was going to make him do it again. Though, Jon would NEVER admit that is why he says it half as much as he does. ]
You misunderstand, I am not saying i don't care so take it off. No, I am saying I do not care to ever know who you really are. Unless either my ring returns, or somehow my amgydala fixes itself. The latter is nearly as impossible as the former... Thanks to Luthor.
[ A flash of rage in his eyes a moment before took a breath forcing it down, Scarecrow getting rowdy and wanting out with the flush of rage over Luthor. Taking another bite before adding. ] Jace Peters can be attacked by the Scarecrow should it come to that. I would only charge a session for the act.
[ Hey, there are some good books coming out. And he has a harmless version of the toxin he made to scare people without actually gassing them. ] I find if you remember them with some disdain, they were likely a good teacher. You don't need to be friendly with everyone. School is about learning, and I would not pass any fool if I had a say. Which was counterproductive when half the staff were sleeping with students. [ Poking at the bowl with the fork again.] Why would she roll, though? I have seen your writing, it is rather good.
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Just because Jon didn't gas him now doesn't mean Jon didn't gas him back when he'd been Robin. Watching his mother claw her way after him, needles hanging from her arms and vomit on her blouse had been bad enough. He was more than a little nervous about what he'd see if he were to ever be dosed now.
Their sessions with hypnosis were bad enough and he didn't even really remember most of those. Just an overall feeling of fear and pain and the crushing weight of being alone.]
If I need Jace to end up gassed, I'll let you know. For now, I think we should be good. And she'd be rolling because she was the person who came the closest to making me stop cussing. My knuckles were black and blue by the end of that year, she'd smacked me with that damned ruler so much. Almost worked, though.
[That had been the year that Willis had been locked up, so a lot of his bad influences were gone for a while. Of course, then Catherine had gotten bad and he'd stopped going to school at all....but still. She'd left her mark.]
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The issue was, clocked that wariness, and it took effort to ignore it. To force himself to eat and not think about the beautiful horror each of the Robins had shown, the horror he used to feel. No, focus on the baby bird, and eat what the Hood made him.
Taking another deep breath, letting it out of his nose before he spoke again.]
Needless to say it would be a harmless gas, I did sign saying I would not dose you with toxin. As for your teacher, I suppose she tried, but I rarely find that violence works to enforce a lesson. Not does soap in the mouth. Cussing doesn't take away from who you are. Recent studies have even stated that by swearing, you're triggering emotional responses in yourself. Those responses trigger a mild stress response, which eases mild pain.
[ After that rambling explanation he sat the half finished bowl down to sit back some looking to the Hood, staying quiet a moment.]
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Shaking his head, he dropped his fork into his mostly empty bowl and slumped back in his chair.]
Not a session, Doc. You shrink my head all you like while I'm paying you, but I called you to give that little one it's best chance at not dying. So...what's the prognosis?
[It no doubt said a whole lot about his childhood that he didn't want to talk about it outside of very strict perimeters.
Reaching forward, he lightly touched the edge of the shoe box, sitting up straighter so he could peer into it. The bird was still upright, but it was settled down. If it had more feathers, they would have been just a puff, but as it was, they were still kinda scraggily looking.
A good match for the man he'd given them to.]
She looks pretty comfortable. You can take the heating pad, if you need it. I've got more and it's not like I'm in this safehouse often.
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Occasionally, I forget to turn it off. She may live, I will take her home with me. Though, I will likely have to put Craw out tonight, and hope she is carrying nothing, as Nightmare will be curious if he is not too tired to move around tonight. I will take her to the vet to confirm what I can, and if she is incapable of surviving, then I will handle it.
[ He sounds a little sad when he says it, but it would be humane if it came to that. He would torture a human to death, but birds were never something he would torture, despite what Jeremiah Arkham may think.
He had not yet considered how Edward might feel about the new addition, that would hit him later. ] I don't need it, Nightmare's pumpkin is heated, and I have one as well. Back pains, I am certain you understand, or you will.
[ Considering they are the same height. Those back pains would come if they hadn't already. ]
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That had been a long time ago and a far cry from the man who was lounging comfortably in just a pair of sweatpants and a tied on Halloween mask. Still, that calculating look slide easily under his skin and without the comforting parameters of therapy, it made him fidget. He tried to cover it by shoving another spoonful of eggs and rice into his mouth, but he didn't have much hope that it actually worked.]
Knees more than back, but I get it. Keep me informed on how she's doing? Even if you have to put her down, I'd like to know. She's a cute little shit. If you need anything for her, let me know? I can't actually do anything with her, but I can pay for things if you don't feel like stealing so close to your big night.
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Those knives were not coming for Jason. No, he was not nearly as suicidal these days. He had his reasons to live, a few friends, Edward, his birds and the work. The Red Hood was not part of that work, though.
No, Jonathan just returned to feeding the baby bird when he saw Jason try to cover. He rarely apologizes, but he knows he's made the other uncomfortable, it was challenging to ignore Scarecrow screeching to lock onto that and see what makes the little bird tick. The Hood had stopped being little bird when he came back a man the size he was, but Scarecrow didn't care. Everyone has a nickname from Scarecrow.]
Luckily, my knees don't often bother me. It's been my back since my late twenties. The dancing helps. [ No denying he dances, not with his fighting style. It keeps him limber, even with pains of age. ] Of course, you found her, so I will keep you informed. I have a feeling she may be a beauty if she survives. Nightmare looked worse than this when I found him, but I would say he was a month or so older. I shouldn't need anything, though. I have been at this a long time.
[ granted, he hadn't realized the problems that will lead him to calling Oswald in a day or so. ]
She wouldn't be safe around your daughter, for either the child or the bird. I wasn't going to leave her even if you asked. Though, I do thank you for considering my big night. After the last two years, nothing will be in my way.
[ As soon as he said it, his head snapped up. ]
Your next session, you will pay not in money, but by making me a promise Hood.
[ His cheap-ass doing anything for free? It must be big.]
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By the time Crane mentioned dancing, Jason was once more solid enough to give a small, lopsided grin.]
A dancing Doc, never thought I'd hear the magic behind getting your feet up that high, but it makes sense. And it makes sense why it helps with your back, too. A lot of back pain that isn't mechanical is because of weak core muscles. The long muscle needs conditioning if it's going to protect from getting your shit kicked in a couple times a year. I could give you a couple tips if you wanted? Help you lengthen and stretch out those problematic aches.
[The man's posture wasn't doing him any favors, either...but he'd read Crane's file when he'd been Robin and something told him that snapping 'stand up straight' would be a great way to make that abused child Jon had once been lash out.
At the mention of his daughter, his exposed eyes softened a little and that grin broadened into a smile. He was head over heels for that little girl who'd been so suddenly dropped in their laps. The expression didn't harden, exactly, but he did arch a curious brow at the rather abrupt change in his doctor.]
Easy, Doc. What is it? I'm not gunna chase you over Halloween, if that is what you're worried about. Long as you're not mowing down toddlers with your scythe, anyway. You do that, all bets are off, but you knew that.
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He chuckled when Hood spoke, waiting until he was done, as he held the little bird, letting it stay warm in his bony grasp. ] Did you not know? I've always called it violent dancing. [ Shrugging a little.] I'll consider it, it won't be tonight. I am officially off the clock, which means doing nothing I do not feel like doing.
[ His posture was terrible, always slouching, and leaning, while Scarecrow was stiff and moved in inhumane ways. Jason was smart to not say it, though, that had always been a favorite of Grannys. ]
Easy is for after you promise me you will take your child and Arsenal and leave on the 30th, don't return until November 2nd at the earliest. I will not be killing anyone, unless accidents happens. And [ A flat look given.] You know I do not start until after curfew, if children get hurt that is on their parents. Even the homeless children know to get off the streets on Halloween.
I do not do previews or hints, but you do not want you or your child here while I am working.
[ He had worked too much with The Hood to expose him to Halloween toxins. It was part of their deal after all, no Toxin for the hood. ]
For Prettyredbird
He didn't bother responding to the text, but it was only about ten minutes later before a murmur started rumbling through the guests. Apparently, someone had shown up that no one had been expecting. Someone that more than a few people were uneasy about. After all, Jace Peters was known to be a certain Eastend crime lord's capo.
Not enough time for him to have gotten ready for a stage like this. He'd been planning on showing up, apparently. Either that, or he'd had other plans for the night. He was dressed far simpler than most of the rich assholes already there, but he was neat and clean and he'd put in enough effort that he hadn't been turned away at the door. He'd even styled his curls into something resembling order, the white streak striking against all the black.
Catching sight of Tim, he smiled and the expression was one of the predator spotting it's prey. He absently waved off the tray of champagne being offered, opting instead to start moving through the crowd towards the younger man.
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Heat flushed every inch of him. Not only was Jason incredibly handsome, he was (maybe) inadvertently fulfilling Tim's bad boy fantasies. It was hot that he was dangerous, that some of the other people there were visibly afraid of him. If they played their cards right, Gotham's elite would recognize that Tim was apparently infatuated with a capo, and it would be better not to try to meddle in his business or attempt any hook ups with their daughters.
"Jace." Tim gave a little tip of his head as a greeting, putting on airs and ignoring the temptation to just throw himself at the man. "I'm glad to see that you were able to make it tonight. I'm sure your boss can tell how much good this charity has done."
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At least, that was the carefully curated lie of Jason's current legal alias.
The crowd parted a little as he moved through them and he smirked a little to himself as he took full advantage of that. The look on Tim's face when the younger man caught sight of him was something to be savored and the lack of people trying to fight for Tim's attention was helpful for that. No doubt it was also a relief for the man, himself.
"Mr. Drake." He let his natural Eastend accent drip heavy in his words, not bothering to put on the posh Bristol accent that he usually used any time that he had to deal with the rest of the family. He dipped his own head in a likewise greeting, letting the corners of his lips toy with the idea of a smirk as he looked back up. "Thank you for inviting him. He wanted me to express his disappointment at being unable to come on his own, but he's hoping that you won't be too disappointed that he sent me in his stead. He also wanted to make sure that this went exactly where it belonged." For the first time, his hand left his pocket and it didn't escape his notice that a few people stepped back as if expecting him to be wielding a weapon.
Which, in a way, he was. It was a check. A check with a fair amount of zeros, filled out to the Neon Knight Organization, 'Donation' written on the 'notes' line in neat, precise handwriting.
"An additional token of his good will towards your efforts, Mr. Drake."
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"Oh my, thank you." He gave an appreciative nod of his head and fluttered his eyelashes for dramatic effect. "And please thank him for me. His generosity will make a big difference on the streets. I will keep a close eye on it and make sure every penny is used properly." The young man turned and gave the check to the woman organizing the whole thing, so that she could see to it getting to the right place. When he turned back to Jason, there was a genuine smile on his lips, not the fake plastic kind he had to put on to please the old white rich assholes that attended these sorts of things.
It was going to be embarrassingly easy to pretend to have a crush on Jace.
He took a step closer to the older boy and tilted his head. "Can I get you something to eat or drink? They've made these delightful little Gruyere and Crab Palmiers that pair perfectly with the champagne." It was pretty obvious that he was flirting at this point. He'd feel bad about being so shameless if it wasn't going to get him exactly what he was after--freedom from the old ladies. "I want to make sure that you have a good time while you're here, so you can share my good will with your boss."
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They were a team, the two of them. No matter if Tim knew it or not. It was what he'd been coming here to say in the first place, Tim's plea for help only making the whole thing that much more amusing.
"Oh, I can find my own food and drink, Mr. Drake. I appreciate the offer, but you are the man of honor here, right? I'm just the messenger boy." He smiled, that soft little lopsided smile that Tim only got to see when it was just the two of them. "But maybe later, after all the speeches and toasts and everythin' else too rich for my blood...maybe then I can ask you for a dance? 'S a party, right?"
He wasn't going anywhere. He'd stay close, be ready to swoop in if Tim needed a rescue. Though, the younger boy's doe eyes at him had no doubt been noticed. More than a few of those old vipers would be leaving him alone.
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Jason was right, though. There were a lot of speeches and toasts to get through. As the head of the program, everyone wanted to hear from him. Fortunately, being the son of Janet and Jack Drake, he was more than capable of giving a speech to an expectant crowd. They wouldn't have raised their only child to be anything less. Not that they did much raising outside of grooming him to be their heir in the business world. Still, he looked powerful as he approached the little podium and began to speak.
Tim told them all about a few kids in particular that they had managed to help out, ones he had gotten to know on a personal level. All the work that Jason did really inspired him to do more than just throw money at the problem. He wanted to be out there helping the work get done, when he could. As he spoke, every once in a while, he'd let himself look over to where the older boy stood and the smile that pulled onto his lips was much more genuine than it was otherwise.
He made sure to thank the Red Hood in his speech, for the work that he did, and even tossed Jace's name in there as the messenger to thank him for the donation. Not something he typically did for donors, but not so unusual as to create shockwaves. There was still plenty of applause when he finished.
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The exception to his hovering came during the speeches. He'd charmed the woman tending to the hors d'oeuvres table into giving him a rather generously loaded plate, then settled in the back to work his way through his meal while speeches were given. One by one, he mostly ignored them all...until Tim walked up to that podium. Every time the boy glanced his way Jason smiled right back, even winking once just to see if he could make that smooth brilliance stumble at all.
Thanking a vigilante crime lord with a deadly reputation was perhaps a little more unusual than Tim might have planned, but honestly it wasn't that different from someone thanking Carmine Falcone. There was a murmur of surprised that rolled through the attendees, a hushed surprise that was easily covered by applause as Tim stepped away from the podium.
Almost at once, Jason's bulk was at Tim's elbow. A quiet, looming presence that kept the more timid of the vultures at bay. It didn't stop some of the older, more arrogant of the flock from their questions, however.
"How long have you worked with the Hood, Mr. Drake?"
"Is Mr. Wayne aware of your dealings with the Red Hood?"
"Are you two really working together, Mr. Drake?"
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There was no need to look to his side when his speech ended. The aura of Jason Todd let Tim know he was there far before his eyes would be able to catch him. What once had been a beautiful, genuine smile on his face twisted into something fake as the elite hounded him for answers. No one in their right mind thought they had the right to demand things of a Drake, Tim least of all. He just tilted his head and gave it a little shake.
"I am working with the Red Hood." The young man said with a pleasant tone, daring them to try to question him further. He'd outwit every single one of them if necessary, they didn't scare him at all. "I have been for... hm. A few months, I think?" His eyes finally trailed over to the man beside him, and he bat those long, dark lashes of his. "Isn't that right Jace?"
It was the mention of Bruce that irked him most of all. Tim was not a child that needed daddy's permission to handle his charity how he saw fit. He turned, narrowing his eyes slightly at the elderly man that was staring him down. Hell hath no fury like a pissed off Timmy. "I'm surprised you'd think that Bruce would have an issue with any of it. He's well aware that protecting the youth of this city is the only way to secure a solid future for Gotham. The Red Hood has no ulterior motives--he grew up here and knows what the streets are like." He grabbed for a glass of champagne as a waiter walked by and let himself have a long sip of it before speaking again.
"Or is it that you don't believe my mother taught me how to be a good judge of character?" Janet might not have been a very good mom, but she was a fierce business woman that people knew not to mess with. Tim certainly felt more connected with her postmortem than he ever had his shitty father. "I can promise you that I have personally vetted every person that comes anywhere near my charity, and if I was the least bit suspicious of anything at all, that person would not come near it again." All the while his tone was kept perfectly pleasant. It was the glint in his eyes that was vicious.
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"You know, you didn't have to do that. He would have been fine being a silent benefactor." He made sure to keep his ruse, referring to Hood in the third person just as all of them referred to their masked egos. He sipped at his drink, something in a short, wide glass with ice and an orange slice, amusement bright in his eyes. "He's pissed off more than a few people in this room. He doesn't take kindly to the hoity-toity types coming down to our stretch of street to mess up some pretty young thing's face. Marched more than a few of them out on their asses, nursing busted noses or a few holes in places that won't kill them."
Hell, he'd recognized no less than three 'gentlemen' in the crowd who'd made his own pre-Batman days a living hell, not that he had any proof. There was a reason he wasn't mingling and it wasn't just because this wasn't his kind of crowd.
"Gotta say, though. Watching you work is very impressive, Mr. Drake. Very skillfully handled."
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"I don't have to do anything." He reminded Jason sweetly after another sip. "I admire everything that Red Hood has done for the youth in Gotham, and I'm not going to tolerate bad-mouthing him at my charity event. Whatever he's had to do to keep the streets safe is none of my business and has nothing to do with the Neon Knights program." Well, it was his business, but as Red Robin, not as Tim Drake. Red Robin's not too keen on hearing about people getting shot, but, well. At least Jason's not killing them. Progress.
There was a slight bow of his head as an acknowledgement of the praise. "I appreciate that, Jace. And I can see now that your boss probably didn't stop by to spare both me and himself the drama it would cause. But I'm glad that you were able to be here tonight."
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Jason didn't want to make life harder for Tim just because of their...whatever they had. Contrary to what their family seemed to think.
Reaching out, Jason gently stroked a strand of hair back behind Tim's ear, his thumb lightly brushing the patch of cheek it had been hiding.
"Oh, I know you don't have to do anything. And he's very grateful for your understanding of his situation. But...if you're serious about not wanting people with ill intent to be around your organization, you may want to go ask Mr. Coleman exactly why he's favoring his left arm." He paused, giving Tim a little bit of a look before he cleared his throat and leaned in to whisper "And maybe exactly what he said to the girl he wanted to rough up to get her to leave the rest of the girls on the corner. He'll deny it, but the bossman's got proof if you want to see it."
So maybe he hadn't been coming tonight just to personally hand over the donation. He knew how fiercely Tim protected his program.
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There's a shift in the brightness to Tim's gaze when he hears what Jason has to tell him, however. "I don't need to see anything." The younger of the two said, voice back to that dangerous, icy tone. "Excuse me for a minute, Jace." He didn't wait for any sort of response, simply turned on his heel. There were practically flames under his feet with each step he took, his aura nothing but ice and steel.
Tim walked right up to the man, smiled, and motioned for him to lean down so he could tell him something quietly. Whatever he said had the geezer looking shocked, then turning bright red. The guy seemed ready for the denial that Jason predicted, but Tim held his sharp gaze. "I assume you'll be able to see yourself out, Mr. Coleman. I don't think either of us want any sort of issues that could arise if you don't." He hummed and then smiled that same smile he inherited from his mother.
Those bright blue eyes followed the man as he made his exit, making sure that wasn't simply pretending to leave. And then Tim followed it up by telling security not to let him in again. It was only then that he returned to Jason's side.
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The fact that his wife looked mad but not surprised just made him want to lash out even more.
Instead, he kept his focus on Tim and as soon as the younger man was heading back towards him, Jason was striding forward to meet him. His glass was gone, emptied and set aside, his hand instead held out in an offer.
"If you'd honor me with a dance, Mr. Drake?" He needed to get his hands on his lover, even just one pressed a little lower at the small of the younger man's back than would be socially acceptable. No one would expect a gangster to know how to ballroom dance, and compared to the rest of his would be siblings he wasn't particularly good at it, but he knew enough to not trample Tim's feet as he bowed his head to be able to murmur directly into Tim's ear.
"Anyone ever tell you how hot you are when you're pissed off?"
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The smile he gave in response was just a little smug, a cat that caught the canary. He gazed up at the older boy with those pretty eyes, batting his long lashes a few times. "That's not usually that kind of compliment I'm used to getting, but it might be my favorite." He wasn't bullshitting, either. Despite his small stature, he could be a vicious little thing if necessary, and he didn't want to spend his time chasing after someone that would dislike that part of him. That was the thing about Jason, though, from the day that they got together, he hadn't made the younger vigilante feel like some part of him was broken and needed to be repaired.
And, definitely, there were parts of him that were broken. He just appreciated it not being thrown in his face.
Jason might not have been the most skilled dancer in the family, but he did just fine. The two of them were so well versed in fighting together that they could read each other's movements like it was second nature. Dancing and fighting weren't that different from one another, so they made a good pair in many different ways.
"I do think it's probably just about time to leave, though. I'm starting to get tired of all of this."
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They respected each other. All of each other. All their broken, jagged pieces that fit back together with little holes where somethings had been too shattered to repair. The others saw those holes and pitied them. Jason saw those holes and understood that being broken didn't mean you were useless.
The older man chuckled softly, nodding as the song came to an end. He kept a hand at the small of Tim's back as he guided them away from their fellow dancers. He wanted to steer them both in the direction of the door and just call it a night, maybe take some time to peel Tim out of that fine suit with his teeth...but Tim Drake had a reputation.
And being seen leaving with Jace Peters went beyond a little public flirting to get the grandmas to stop shoving their grandkids at him. The pictures that had no doubt already been taken would be damning enough.
"You go on. I'll make a menace of myself a little longer to keep your reputation pearly white. Meet you at the Nest. I'll make some caramel for popcorn and we can start season two of TNG."
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Though typically not with known criminals. Just ones that masked their deeds with a pretty face that couldn't cause any harm.
Jason's words did make the younger boy smile. He nodded his head obediently, because he was a very good boy. He doesn't give into the temptation to stick his tongue down the vigilante's throat, but he does let his lips brush faintly against his cheek. A tender, sweet little affection that he was sure would be getting photographed. He didn't care. It was chaste and would hardly cause a huge scandal.
"Good night, Jace. It was wonderful to see you." He said loud enough to be overheard, and then he's off, the crowd parting for him so that he can take his leave.
For Farcry
[They'd survived, and now they were changed for it.
Jason frowned a little at the man's easy smile, a little bit of annoyance lingering despite the quiet of the deck. He knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that the 'mess' had been a ploy to get him out of his bunk. Dick was always doing shit like that and it was...a mixed bag, honestly.
He'd spent the only years he could remember surviving by keeping his head down and retreating back to his rooms the first chance he got, only letting himself be specifically requested by passengers instead of letting himself be randomly grabbed. It was a good way to survive, but it left a lot to be desired in the realm of actually 'living'.
For instance, he still hadn't even really registered the stars overhead as he made his way across the deck to not so lightly thump his fist into the older man's shoulder.]
You're going to get us picked up at this rate, you asshole. I'm not saving you when someone decides to take you back to their room for the night.
[It was only a half a lie. He couldn't actually stop a passenger from snagging the brunette...but he could volunteer to go with him. Which is exactly what he'd do and they both knew it.]
thenk! 💙
[ he hushed, raising a finger to his mouth as Jason's prod to his shoulder sends him taking a couple of steps back without the mirth leaving his eyes.
of course he didn't want to get picked up either, or pulled into a cabin with a guest, but he also wasn't here to simply do his time and leave. he'd been doing a good amount of digging and narrowly getting away with a couple things here and there, but there were also times where he paid for his nosiness, for his fight, or just for his inability to simply behave. J had unfortunately been the witness to a couple of those, as much as Dick tried to hide it.
besides his larger goal of figuring out the organization of the cruise and getting information on its guests, many related to the crimes in Gotham, he found that on the daily, he wanted little more than to see that rare smile of J's. after all, he'd always been great at getting up after being kicked down, and the reason why he could go on at all was that he could always the light. no matter how bad things were. ]
You don't have to save me, but just--look.
[ he pointed up at the sky, even though all he was staring at was J's face. ]
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Now, he wasn't so sure. He'd spent seven years surviving by letting everyone else around him die. The thought of watching Dick sink beneath the waves, however, twisted something sharp in his guts that he had no memory of ever feeling before.
And yet, he was there. Walking across the empty deck and narrowing his eyes as Dick's finger pressed against his lips. For a moment he considering biting that finger....but then he was rolling his eyes and finally looking up. Overhead, the sky stretched endless and wonderous and his annoyance faded as he lost himself for a moment in the beauty.]
Oh.
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he wants nothing more but to pull that face to his, to kiss those full lips, to make out under the stars but even he wouldn't be so risky to do that. so he just stands there, quiet as he watches J, still as he lets the moment stretch on for as long as J would allow them to have it. ]
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Jay didn't look over. He just stepped closer until he could feel the warmth of Dick's body against his own. Reassurance, protectiveness....he didn't know. He moved closer because he wanted to move closer.
It was just Dick. His gravitational pull that J just could seem to pull away from. Not that he was trying particularly hard these days.]
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but then J stepped closer until their bodies were together and Dick instinctively wrapped his arms around J's shoulders to pull him even closer yet. his gaze traced out J's features then dropped to his lips again, and not even knowing they might be being watched, or captured on security footage, or whatever frivolous rules they were breaking could stop him from leaning up to press kiss J.
it was a simple kiss. a tender, gentle one, suited for being witnessed by the whole universe stretching above them. a hand drifted up to wordlessly cup over the warm skin of J's branded cheek. Dick would consider this their first kiss. not the one forced by Roman, or any of what happened under outside influence. this was theirs and theirs alone. ]
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The kiss was soft, gentle in a way that J had never been kissed before. Roman had taken great joy in watching the two of them make out and writhe against each other as he'd used them as he'd seen fit, but those kisses were barely remembered against the haze of the drugs in J's system and the pain that had overtaken his body. Dick had been a rock in that sea of pain....but even then, everything that Roman had made them do hadn't been with Dick. They'd done it because they'd had to. Because if they hadn't, Sionis would have killed one or both of them.
Being kissed on a quiet deck under the stars? That earned a small, quiet sound from the younger boy, a hand reaching up to tentatively touch the older's face. When it broke, he didn't immediately pull away, though he did turn a confused and unsure look out over the ocean.]
Dickie....this is a bad idea.
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his gaze followed J’s over the sea before slowly, he turned into J’s touch. his eyes shut to the feeling of that warm palm cupping against his cheek. ]
I wanted you to see it. I know you don’t wanna be out here, but I wanted to…share this with you. [ the stars, the sea, the quiet deck, the wind whipping around their bodies, kept warm by proximity itself. his arms tightened around J, his face tucked into J’s jaw, nuzzling. ]
We can go back now if you want.
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Warmth bloomed in J's chest, spilling out over the bridge of his nose to highlight the freckles that dotted his cheekbones. When had anyone ever said something like that to him? When had anyone ever meant something like that? If anyone had, he didn't know. Surely not in the few years that he could actively remember. It was stupid, so fucking stupid to let himself get so wrapped up in it...
He tucked himself in closer to the older man, his face turning in so he could softly kiss the soft skin of Dick's neck.]
Stay with me tonight?
[Staff bunks weren't designed for two people, but they could make it work. He didn't....he wasn't ready to walk away from that softness. From the feeling of safety that being around Dick had always given him. He knew it was false and that Dick couldn't actually do a damned thing to save him if someone wanted to take him...but he wasn't ready to give up that illusion.
Not yet. Not tonight.]
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He stilled when J asked his question, those words to quiet and vulnerable, warming his heart because he knew J would be worried about all the what-ifs if they were found together, tucked into J's tiny bed. Management was already to pick up on clues of how close they had grown. ]
Okay. [ He replied softly, nodding. Dick knew he was working through J's defences, but that meant he also needed to play his part in keeping them safe. Maybe it was delusional, but Dick felt there was plenty they could do to tread lightly enough, to stay alive, to endure whatever it was they had to go through to see each other again, but they had to be careful about it. ] At least...just for a bit. [ Then, once J fell asleep, he would leave. ]
Come on. [ Despite his worries, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he pulled back and looked at J. ] Let's go.
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But Dick nodded and J let himself relax into the strong arms around him as he shivered.
Behind them, a shadow moved.]
How sweet. [The voice was low and J didn't recognize it, but he still stiffened and tried to jerk back from the circle of Dick's arms, but a hand caught him between the shoulderblades, keeping him from moving.] You found yourself a playmate.
[J didn't recognize the voice. But Dick would.
Slade stepped out of the shadow, cruel smirk on his lips as he slid his hand over the younger of the two's spine.]
Awfully easy of you...
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As if Slade didn't already have a huge advantage over him here, now, he knew about J.
Dick pulled J back, stepped back to put some distance between them and Slade. He turned enough so he could shove J behind him, brows knitted together. ]
Don't look so fucking smug, Slade. It doesn't suit you.
[ J would easily pick up that there's history between them, but even J didn't know that he was law enforcement. That was a secret he hadn't uttered out loud to anyone here, not because he wanted to hide it from J, but because it was knowledge that would do J more harm than good at the moment. What if he was caught knowing it?
Of course, once they were off this ship, Dick planned to tell J everything. For now, all he could do wash push J toward the door. ]
Go. Don't be dumb, I'll find you after. Go.
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Still, he let himself be pulled back behind Dick, confusion clear on his features as he looked between the two men. He wanted to ask...but Dick pushed him away and Slade let him take a few unsteady steps before he reached out to close that large hand around J's upper arm.]
Don't be stupid, Richard. The lights gone green. He goes out by himself now... [He wasn't lying. The soft, LED running lights that lined the corridors had shifted from red to green, signaling to the passengers that the ship had officially crossed into international waters. Right on cue, there was a shrill, pained cry from somewhere on the crowded deck below them, followed by a chorus of laughter from passengers who were apparently watching.
J flinched, dropping his gaze to the deck as a muscle in his jaw twitched.]
Unless you're willing to sacrifice him to save your secret, of course.
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Still, the stars stretched above them, watching, still bathing the three of them in a strange, cool glow. ]
I'm not saving my secret, I'm saving him. [ There was a harshness behind his voice, a sharp edge he'd never shown J before as his hands splayed at his sides, palms open. His greatest weapon, all those years of honing martial arts, was of no use here. He was at Slade's mercy, at the mercy of this ship. Fight and he'd instantly lose his life. J would lose his life. ]
You miss me so much you tracked me down? Wouldn't be surprised if it was all the way from Gotham. It's me you want. Let him go.
[ He looked at J, something breaking in his gaze, something pained and sorry. ]
He'll survive. He's survived years of this without me.
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Your boy smells scared, Richard. Tell him it's gunna be okay. Look into those pretty eyes of his and tell him that you're going to behave so that I have no reason to hurt him. Go on. Promise him.
[For his part, J made a small, disbelieving sound. He had no idea who the man who had him was, but he knew Dick. He knew Dick wasn't going to bow to someone just to protect him. Not again. Not after everything that Roman had done to them just because Dick had tried to help him.]
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Like surging forward to rip J away from Slade's claws, because J was his (a dangerous thought). Or sock Slade in the jaw before knocking him out and tossing him overboard (dangerous and stupid). He knew what this place was. Any of that would land them both dead.
A slow, resigned sigh had his lips parting for a beat of hesitation before the words came. ]
I...promise. [ his eyes went to Slade's arm around J's waist before up to those green eyes again. ] It's gonna be okay, Jay. Slade's not gonna hurt you--I'll do whatever it takes.
[ And to Slade: ]
Your word's questionable integrity is the only thing you've got going for you. Don't disappoint me now.
[ This wretched place could take everything from him, but he would still do anything to protect those he loves. With a blaze in his eyes, he slowly sank down, lowering to his knees one after another before he looked up at Slade. ]
Please. Just let him go. I'll do anything.
For Acrobatss
You know me so well. It's been a long night, maybe I'm looking to not think for a while.
Twenty, huh? Perfect. In about twenty minutes, I plan to be on my knees in the shower with my eyes closed and my mouth open. Sound like a plan to you?
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Hm...sounds perfect, little bro.
Might even make me rush through those last rounds to get there sooner. Make sure the water's hot and those knees are spread, yeah?
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[True to his word, by the time Dick made it back to his apartment the Red Hood uniform had been stashed and the only sign of Jason's presence was the sound of the shower running and a pair of boots by the door.]
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A hand reaches up to find the zipper of his nightwing uniform, and he undoes it, casually taking off every piece as he moves down the hallway to the shower. By the time he reached the bathroom, he was bare and naked. His heavy cock coming to life and already swinging between his legs as he pushed the door open and moved into the steam filled room. Dick resited the urge to call out to the other- after all, he'd said he had his eyes closed. Might as well lean into that kink of it all. His fingers curled into the glass door to tug it open to move into the shower proper, a hand coming down to find Jason's hair as he takes in the sight of him...
God.
How could he not want this sight?
His hips tilted forward to tease his cock against those lips in welcome. ]
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The kink wasn't in not knowing who was about to use him. The kink was knowing exactly who's cock was sliding against his tongue and closing his mouth around it anyway. One hand came up to grip onto Dick's hip, then he was humming softly in appreciation as he started to work.]
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Fuck, Jay...
[ He spoke, breaking the silence anyway as he tilted his head forward to eagerly get more of him inside that perfect mouth.]
Come on- show me how hungry you are, baby.
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Fucking love the way you taste, Dickie... so hungry for you. Been thinking about this all fucking day...
[He couldn't really open his eyes under the spray of the shower, but he still flashed his brother a wicked grin before he once more leaned forward and drew the older man back into his mouth with a sloppy hum of enjoyment.]
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Hm..Yeah? You should have told me sooner... I would have rushed home.
[ He felt a rush of desire at that wicked grin before those lips found his cock again and his hips tilted forward, pushing more of his cock into that mouth. His free hand reaching up to press against the wall as he rocked his hips into that mouth again and again.]
Fuck Jay-bird.
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He did so love it when Dick took what he wanted from him, after all. His own cock was heavy between his spread thighs and not all of the fluid that dripped from the tip was water from the shower. He tended to get messy when he was turned on. Messy and loud, though encouraging Dick to fuck his face put a damper on one of those tells.]
For Backendbat
[There isn't an answering text. Instead, after not nearly enough minutes considering where he'd started from, the sound of a bike pulling up can be heard. He wouldn't usually park so close to the action, but if Dick was calling for evac, he was probably bad enough that he wouldn't want to hobble the few blocks to a more secure spot.
He wasn't in his full uniform, most of his armor and weapons left behind for his would be date, but he had his helmet and his jacket, as well as one of his 45s in a backup thigh rig. It wasn't his usual gun, but it would do.
He was up and off the bike as soon as it was stopped, heading for cover before he started scanned for his idiot brother.]
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He will find things pleasantly on fire, a boat slowly sinking into the harbor, and various unconscious bodies littered about the pier like a beautiful picture. There's a whistle from the back of the building, a little like a bird song. Following it, Jason will find Nightwing wedged up against a wall, legs akimbo, smelling of blood. Still conscious and ready to tell Jason he's fine, though!!]
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That little whistle earned a small scoff, but Jason followed it easily, giving a low whistle of his own when he turned the corner and found his brother.]
Damn, birdie. You really need to learn when to call it a night.
[His voice modulator stripped the little bit of amusement from his words, but his hands were surprisingly gentle as he holstered his gun and started feeling for damage.]
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Hey, I can only go through so many mid-life crisis without help. Thanks for this, man. I'll get out of your hair soon enough.
How medical do you want to go with this, cause I can go full medical XD Following your cue.
Don't worry about it. Where would I be without dragged your ass out of a fire? Now shut up and stop trying to get up so I can see if you're leaking your guts or just bleeding.
not a prob! def won't be too graphic or knowledgeable pfft
My kit went down with the ship...and the bike. Just need something to stop all this.
XD No worries! I just don't want to squick you on accident
Honestly, it would be easier just to carry his brother's dumb ass, but that might injure Dick's pride beyond what he could heal from.]
Yeah, I got you. Let's get out of the burning building before hand, though. Smoke inhalation will kill you a lot faster than bleeding out from that scratch. Come on, my bikes just outside...
i appreciate it!!
Groaning softly to himself, he takes a deep breath and readies himself to move]
You can't say I don't take you to nice places these days.
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I mean, you could have at least served food, but it's not terrible. I guess.
[He was smirking under his helmet, getting Dick down and out of the building and helping him to swing a leg over the back of his bike.]
You gunna be able to hold on or should I tie your wrists together?
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[he's smiling-- through the pained grimace-- at the rather emotionless helmet, but he knows. he's familiar with the tone, even with the module to mask Jason's voice, and the years they've been apart-- he knows.
there's another pained grunt when he swings that long leg over, but he huffs]
Just because I still have the handcuffs....I can hold on, Jay.
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It just wasn't a picture that he knew anymore.
Settling himself on the saddle of his bike, he waited for Dick to get a good grip on him before he kicked the beast awake, taking off for his closest safehouse as the blue and red lights of the GCPD rounded the corner.]
Don't even get me started on you and handcuffs!
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family--?Dick grabs Jason around the waist, not enough to squeeze, but if he keeps saying stuff like that, making him laugh while he's hurting so bad, he'll squeeze!]
Don't get started. Just drive, man.
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He drove, keeping the bike level and easy to hold onto for an injured party, keeping to the back alleys and narrow side passages that most people barely even knew existed. But they weren't most people. Gotham was theirs and they were hers and they knew her better than they knew themselves. No one stopped them as he pulled into a half built parking garage, cutting the bike's engine to let them coast easily into a half hidden parking spot.]
Come on, up you go. Almost there, then I can sew you shut.
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Still, he was able to stay conscious for the whole ride, and he's only a little dizzy when they come to a stop. So this is where Jason's laying his head sometimes? He tries not to worry...Jason's grown.]
Alright, alright. Shove the elderly, why don't you.
[He eases his leg from around the bike, wincing only slightly, and takes a gander around the place]
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There was no roof.
And yet, Jason still hauled the doors open and inside was a car waiting. It even had power, as proven once Jay had keyed in his security codes and the whole thing lit up before the door slid shut and they were lowered down into what had probably been designed as a break room for security. It wasn't a big space, but Jason had a cot shoved into one corner and a makeshift kitchenette in another. Lockers and gear lined the walls and a large table had been set up in the middle.
It was on the table that Jason helped Dick stretch out.]
Hey, you said it. Disarm your suit. I don't want to electrocute myself cutting you out of it if you can't peel it off. When was the last time you ate something? Do I need to worry about you puking on me while I stitch you up?
[He pulled off his helmet mid-question, setting it aside before he shrugged out of his jacket.]
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Dick stays quiet for a moment, a fond smile tilting the corners of his mouth as Jason asks his questions...and when the helmet comes off, he's immediately reaching over to fluff Jason's hair]
No puking. I ate earlier today. Good to see you, Jaybird.
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Blue tipped gloves catching the edge of the raised scar under the white patch helped that reboot along and Jay was quick to reach up and grab Dick's wrist in his hand. Not tight enough to hurt, but enough that Dick's fingers were safely off the only scar from before that actually still kinda hurt.]
I...sorry. It's, uh...a little sensitive.
[He let Dick's wrist go carefully, chewing his lower lip for an awkward moment before he cleared his throat and moved over to the sink to scrub his hands.]
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what Bruce continues to do.Dick lets his hands settle in his lap for a second. He takes a deep breath, watches his brother's shoulders, that familiar shape of them-- just much broader.
The best he can do is to do as he said-- strip the top half of the suit off, and don't apologize. That'd just make it more awkward, wouldn't it?
The wound in his side is still sluggishly bleeding, curled down to one hip, cutting through various other old scars. His skin is already starting to purple.]
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Tossing away the paper towel he'd used to dry off his hands, Jason pulled a rather hefty looking toolbox from inside one of the lockers. It thumped hard against the table when Jason set it down and, when he flipped it open, it was full of medical supplies.]
I've got glue or sutures. Pick your poison. The sutures will leave less of a scar.
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Dick isn't looking forward to all the fuss and mess, never does, but at least any fear he could have built over needles never got the chance to thrive. He gives a whistle when he spots all the equipment in the box.]
Well we both know I care so much about my looks. [an eyeroll] Whichever one'll have me up on my feet quicker.
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I mean, you said it, not me.
[He set up quickly, pulling on gloves and laying out a sterile field to lay his tools out on before he was gesturing for Dick to lay back down and get comfortable so he could start cleaning out the slash.]
What was this, anyway? A pocket knife? You going soft in your old age?
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Dick stretches out further, lets his arms dangle over the edges of the table.]
Me? Soft? I think it was some ceremonial knife, something different. And a couple of distractions.
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Or maybe that last part had just been Jason. He'd never been a particularly good Robin, after all.]
That would explain why it was so dull. Is it still an active case or was the fire my clue that it's done?
[He fell easily into the habit of chattering to keep Dick distracted as he waited for the lidocaine to start dulling the edge of the pain as he worked.]
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Those guys shouldn't recover from that....for awhile, anyway.
[a little more hurt to mend the hurt.]
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Though, honestly, that lecture would probably go to Babs before it went anywhere else.]
Hn. Good. If they come back, hit me up. I've always like playing with fire, you know that.
[It was the closest Dick was going to get to a 'be careful and bring backup, idiot'.
He worked quietly and quickly, a lifetime of training and practice in his hands as he sewed up the wound and carefully wiped down the area in betadine before taping a bandage into place. Then it was a matter of helping Dick to sit up so he could wrap his entire torso in a compression bandage to keep his ribs in place and to help stop the knife wound from bleeding through the stitches.]
There we go. You shouldn't die.
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Dick keeps the hissing and squirming to a minimum, perfectly still aside from a bit of shaking here and there, and when he's finally wrapped up, he tries not to exhale to deeply and give the bandage some slack. He offers Jason a relieved, if not tired, smile]
Thanks again, Jay. I know you were busy, but thanks for coming either way. If you want to put a bag over my head while you escort me out, I'll understand. [he chuckles]
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Still, he huffed a small laugh and shook his head as he started to clean up everything he'd used.]
You weren't bagged when I brought you here, what good would bagging you now do? Besides, it's just a safehouse. I can burn it and be in the wind by morning.
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It's still always better when they're laughing and not screaming at one another]
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Relax, birdie. Even if I did actually set it on fire, it's all concrete. Nothing will spread.
[He smirked to show that he wasn't being serious.]
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True, buildings just aren't what they used to be around here. Made of toilet paper and what, matchsticks? If you ever need a place, though... [he trails off]