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[ 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.
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.
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.
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.
[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?
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.
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.
[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.
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.
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.
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.]
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.]
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'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.
[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.
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.]
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.]
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?"
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?"
[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.]
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
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.
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."
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."
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."
Mm, I'll take your word for it.
[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.
[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?
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?
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.
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.
[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?
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.]
What's your favorite book?
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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