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[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.]
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.]
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.
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.
[ 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. ]
Jason? It’s me.
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.
[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?
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?
Yeah, well. Maybe I'm not just a pretty face.
[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.]
[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.]
[ 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. ]
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.
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.]
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.
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.
Edited 2024-10-03 00:23 (UTC)
[ 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 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. ]
That I don't doubt.
[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.]
[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.]
[From here.]
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.
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.
Edited 2024-10-12 18:33 (UTC)
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."
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."
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."
"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."
[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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
[ 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. ]
It's also okay if you're not okay, you know.
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.
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?"
"Are you two really working together, Mr. Drake?"
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?"
[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.
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.
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.
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."
"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."
"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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