I'm not sure you'd want to live vicariously through me, Miss. I don't exactly get out all that often but when I do I like a few pints at a good pub and a long walk home under the stars.
He's the son of a billionaire and thus his private life is always something that newspapers want to know about, so yes. Quite a bit of a different situation than mine where I grew up in east London and was a nobody.
[After carefully knocking out the poor mind controlled intruder Alfred heads down to the boiler room, entering with a suspicious look around to make sure they are alone and then comes over to Charles.]
[ behold: a sweaty tiny man, holding onto a lever by a large, vibrating, metal thing, other hand to hip. he was completely serious about not stepping away from the thing. ]
See, I was trying to walk back what I'd done wrong, and then I sensed that something - someone - was afoot above, and that left me in quite the bind, as you can see. [ charles indicates, with a flourish, and the groaning thing beside him. ] You wouldn't happen to know what to do with this, do you?
[Alfred sighs and takes off his black suit jacket and begins to roll up the sleeves of his crisp white shirt.]
Looks like you've overloaded and overheated it, just hold onto that lever while I take a look.
[He instructs and hunkers down to undo the lower grate system and peer inside, muttering softly to himself before reaching inside. He hisses in pain for a second as he turns a short valve and steam hits his arm but soon the groaning starts to lessen.]
[ the whole time that alfred is working, charles is recounting the events of the rest of the night - his kitchen misadventure that led to the boiler room discovery, and the manual he'd had to find, the slight detour to get a drink of port because of course, and then the confusion regarding the levers and the knobs and oh, it's a lot of noise, it must be such hard work to maintain all of this daily— and the horrible part is charles means everything sincerely. all too genuinely.
were he not a telepath with an obscene amount of money at his disposal, he likely would be dead from a stupendously ridiculous misunderstanding.
he lets go, and very carefully, hooting in triumph when alfred succeeds where he has failed in fixing things. ]
You are a miracle worker, my good sir, this is wonderful! Thank you, Mister Pennyworth, and on such short notice—
[The only reason Alfred isn't giving Charles a good smack upside the head is because he is being so sincere and he can't really fault the boy for not knowing how a boiler works. It's not common knowledge, especially not for someone as rich as he is.]
You're very welcome sir, but perhaps next time you should just give your maintenance man a call before trying to fix it yourself.
[ he even sounds aghast, like the thought of calling the man for a few hours' work never crossed his mind. it hasn't; holidays are meant to be savoured, uninterrupted. ]
And I think we did very well for ourselves, have we not, Mister Pennyworth? The ah, interloping person aside. Cheers to us!
We could make him happier about it? Mr Pennyworth. Alfred — may I call you Alfred? — we could just ask him to forget it all. No harm done except to himself, yes?
And oh, no. Having been hurt worse before does not mean you're hurt any less. Let me see?
[ There's a small tear in the sleeve that sees itself through to the skin of Bruce's arm, a messy graze that could have been much worse. He doesn't comment on the bruises but grimaces as he reaches to touch his chest. ]
I might have cracked something. The pain is worse on my right.
[ They're beyond him trying to hide when things are bad, but the instinct is still there especially when he knows he's made Alfred worry. ]
[Alfred doesn't comment on the bruises either, just folds the jacket up and puts it aside so he can come over and start to gently press his fingers against Bruce's chest and ribs.]
Take a breath.
[He instructs and after Bruce does he nods.]
Not cracked, just badly bruised. You'll have to take a few days off to let it heal.
[ Nothing grinds together under the gentle pressure which is good. Bruce counts his wins, however small, and smiles blithely. ] I guess that's one less note for Lucius.
[ He goes quiet again as he lets Alfred work, only occasionally bracing himself with a breath through his teeth whenever the pain feels especially bad. ]
Alfred. [ Bruce pauses, unsure he wants to ask because he's worried the answer will have happened in his employ. The potential guilt loses out to his curiosity. ] Have you ever broken anything?
[Alfred works slowly but carefully, his well worn hands working to bandage up all Bruce's wounds. His eyes flicker briefly to Bruce's when he speaks and he nods.]
Course I have. I've been in my share of fights, not to mention a war.
[ It used to be easy for them to keep their gazes locked and communicate with nothing but a glance, but Bruce's gaze drops to watch Alfred's hands instead. ]
Which break was the worst? [ He chances a glance up while offering his arm to be cleaned and bandaged, letting Alfred know with that brief look that he's invested in the story. ]
[Communication in general used to be easier, part of that he supposes is Bruce growing up and becoming a teenager. He's heard from parents that these are the worst years, that children you once knew turned into brooding strangers and yet Alfred isn't fully convinced that's the whole reason behind Bruce's change in attitude.]
That would be when I had both my collarbones broken, had to have metal plates put in them while they healed and then removed later on.
[ Bruce's face pinches into something that takes a moment to smooth away. It is a practiced neutrality that is getting more and more brittle the longer the guilt in him festers. This newest revelation adds to that. He's seen Alfred in hospital gowns, too often because of him, but he'd never looked too deeply for evidence of his former life. He looks for it now, a quiet assessment, a different language he's learning to speak but won't let Alfred learn the cipher to. ]
They're rather faint by now, it happened when I was in my late twenties.
[Which seems like a life time ago now but when Bruce asks about what happened he nods and begins the tale, after all he's always been good at telling Bruce stories.]
This was back in London after I got out of the army and was working as the doorman and security for a nightclub.
It was one of those nights where you just knew something was off, that there was going to be trouble in one way or another.
[ The story gives him something other than the aches and pains of the night to focus on. It's also a balm for the parts of him that think maybe Alfred would be safer in a life outside of his service, pacified by the history of his scrapes which he notes with a small huff of a smile and the words: ] You and trouble have a long history together, I see.
[ The expanse of his back is given for Alfred to oversee. He's pretty sure it's just bruising but it doesn't hurt (well, technically it does) to allow him a better look. ] So how did it find you?
[Alfred could argue that Bruce's history isn't long at all, considering he's still just a lad, but he keeps quiet about that since lately he seems a little sore about being reminded of that fact.]
It found me by way of a very large and very inebriated chap who decided that since his pick up lines weren't working on the dancing girls that he would literally 'pick them up'.
[ Alfred's history with trouble seems long and growing ever longer so he's grateful to have the remark go without comment, allowing for Bruce to feel a little easier in his own skin. He wants to rumble a low laugh but the noise starts and stops in his bruised chest, suffocated in lieu of a soft puff of air. ]
That was rather brutish of him. There was a fight, I take it?
Well not at first, you know that I always try to solve things with words first.
[He's a gentleman after all and a gentleman always tries to de-escalate a situation before violence.]
So first I went up to him and told him that the girls had a show to do and unless he wanted to put on a glittery bra and join them in a number he'd have to stop mucking about.
[ It's a gentle tease, an attempt to find their rhythm again. This time, despite his efforts and his injuries, Bruce laughs and the sharp jolt of pain that goes through his chest has him clutching at it with a sharp hiss, the bright noise quickly aborted behind grit teeth. ]
I take it he didn't join the chorus line. [ He tries to play off the pain, shaking his head to preempt any concern Alfred might show. Instead, Bruce steadies himself with a hand on the back of the chair before stealing a look over his shoulder at Alfred. ] Don't tell me he put you over his shoulder instead...
[It's nice to hear him laugh again, even if it turns into a hiss of pain but Alfred doesn't move to comfort him. Bruce made his decision to go out and he's got to learn to live with the consequences, after all pain can be a great teacher on what not to do next time.]
Not quite, he actually picked me up over his head and threw me against the bar. I landed at a bad angle and cracked both collarbones.
[A small pause as he finishes bandaging up Bruce's back.]
Didn't stop me from dealing with him though and after he was finally out for the count I looked down and saw these two great bloody big lumps where my bones were trying to push through my skin.
[ Bruce knows the pain is in the past but it still doesn't stop him from wincing sympathetically as Alfred recalls the brawl. After a beat, noticing that there doesn't seem to be anything left to bandage, he ventures: ] How long were you out of commission?
[ And then, glancing over his shoulder asks. ] Or were you stubborn about bed rest even then?
About two weeks after they set the bones and then I had the metal plates in for about six weeks to make sure they healed properly, then I was out for another week after they did the surgery to take out them out.
[He chuckles softly.]
I was, lucky for me I had a very good nurse at the time. One of the dancing girls.
[ This time the huff of amusement is just that, a low breath of air as Bruce blushes with the heightened knowledge of Alfred having had a full life well before coming to Wayne Manor. Dancing girls and all. ] I'm sure you were much better behaved around her than the doctors.
[ He smiles blithely, small but there before expelling a ragged breath that shores back up the professional distance he has been trying to erect between them. ]
Was that the last of it then? [ He nods at the tray Alfred has brought back up and while he knows there's no forgetting the needle there, he's half hoping Alfred has. ]
[Bruce has had to grow up quite a lot these past few years but the topic of girls, sex and relationships is still not something he knows much about and his small blush makes Alfred chuckle. It helps soothe his feelings when Bruce suddenly switches back to acting distant and almost cold to him.]
Almost.
[He says and picks up the needle.]
Just a quick shot to the rump and then we'll be done, you can spend the rest of your day recovering and resting.
[ Growing up has been one harrowing event after another and it hasn't left Bruce with a lot of time to reckon with teenage hormones or what they mean as he continues to try and deny the human parts of himself that aren't related to finding ways to prevent Ra's al Ghul's return or keeping the leeches on Wayne Enterprise's board of directors from trying to pull his family's company out from under him.
Most of the time he thinks he has a hand on all the confusing emotions that war within him but then there are times like these when he struggles with any kind of vulnerability despite knowing Alfred is the one person deserving of it. ]
Then let's get this over with.
[ He nods, mostly for himself, then takes a beat to cradle his newly bandaged ribs with a hand cupped just under where they hurt the most. Any bracing breaths will just worsen the pain so he stills the air in his chest as he goes about undoing his belt so he can push the waistband of both his pants and underwear down just enough to expose a thin strip of skin below his back. Modesty its own kind of armor he's learned to wear, even around Alfred who Bruce pointedly avoids looking at. ]
I wouldn't say no to pancakes, [ He suggests to take his mind off of the injection. ]
[As always, Alfred is quick and precise. Swabbing the area of skin that Bruce presents to him with an alcohol swatch before swiftly sticking him with the needle and administering the liquid as quickly as he can. With that done the needle is removed and a bandage put in place.]
Pancakes it is then. Regular or something a bit sweeter? Chocolate chip perhaps?
[After all, Bruce does deserve a little treat after having endured that.]
[ The perfunctory care is appreciated without comment or gratitude. They are both familiar enough with this routine of Bruce coming home with scrapes and bruises that it doesn't need any grandstanding. He fastens himself back up, sore now in more places than when he started. ] Chocolate chip.
[ He keeps the eagerness out of his voice, but the comfort of something warm and sweet helps soften the prickly edges he's trying to keep up. ] I'll meet you downstairs.
[Bruce is able to keep the eagerness out of his voice but not the hint of warmth that creeps in when he requests chocolate chip pancakes and Alfred nods, picking up the medical tray and moving towards the door.]
She can't fire you if you do something in your regular life she doesn't agree with.
Thank you. Her name was Esme, she was a lovely woman but there were times that neither of us knew what we were doing together. Didn't stop us from loving one another though.
All right, just thought I'd check. I remember having to take Master Bruce clothes shopping quite a few times when he was around your age, he kept having all these bloody growth spurts.
Oh, sweet. Okay, good. I thought he was gonna hound me for more training.
[and for once, Jason doesn't mind that Bruce is gonna be in meetings all day. usually it bums him out cause he's left to his own devices, but today he's got something planned with Alfred so it's all good.]
One doesn't always have to be serious partners for there to be comfort. You could just be close and care about one another, doesn't mean you're going to be buying property together or anything.
Neither of us wanted 'intimate'. We agreed that it wasn't that. It was just two guys getting each other off because it's easier than going through the whole process with girls, or so I thought when I agreed to it.
Well just think of this as a chance to assess the skills you need to sharpen up on.
[When he approaches the car it slows down, the back door opening to reveal a small screen that carries the wayne logo so Dick knows it was sent by Alfred.]
[ he dives into the car when he deems it legitimate enough, sighing as he shuts the back door and splays in the back seat, catching his breath. he searches out the medkit Alfred mentioned and pops a few pain killers dry. ]
[ Thank God they’re not home and her kids are with Joel. Midge is now scrambling to put on something presentable and ends up just throwing a robe over her nightgown. ]
[If she wasn't so flustered she might wonder how he knows exactly where she lives but then again, maybe not. She did give him some details and he is a clever bloke....
Either way, about 20 mins later there's a knock on her front door.]
[ The wheels are turning in her head. She knows that she gave Alfred her phone number, but she doesn't think she gave him her address. Midge only told him that she lives in the Upper West Side. Maybe she should be more worried about him coming over.
Despite the fact that she's expecting him, Midge jumps when he knocks on the door. After checking through the peephole to make sure that it's him, she opens the door. ]
Hey...
[ She lets him in. Midge is wearing her robe, but her hair is still down. Thankfully, their conversation had started before she put her hair in curlers.
They look at each other for a moment, Midge stunned into silence for one of the few times in her life. ]
[When she opens the door she will find Alfred looking as sharp as usual, dressed in a heavy tan overcoat and blue turtleneck, a smirk already playing at the corners of his lips.]
Indeed I am.
[Despite her being in a robe his eyes stay on hers as he enters her home.]
How about I get you one instead? [He replies with a cheeky grin and pulls a bottle of whiskey out of his coat pocket, there's a red bow wrapped around the top and he passes it to her.]
And it seemed the best course of action, messaging is good and all but it's hard to pick up on tone sometimes.
Oh, you come bearing gifts? We have glasses in the living room.
[ Midge leads the way through the hall to their comfortable living room. The apartment gives off an air of money, but isn’t ostentatious. She retrieves two glasses from the bar cart and placed them on the coffee table before untying the bow and opening the bottle of whiskey.
Is it unladylike to have a drink with a gentleman when you’re in your nightgown and robe? Fortunately, Alfred is the only one here to see her.
She pours a little whiskey in each glass and hands him one of them before joining him on the couch. She takes a sip. ]
Better than a coconut Girl Scout cookie rum cocktail.
[ Alfred doesn’t seem to be in any hurry to cut to the chase of his visit, and Midge wonders if that’s supposed to heighten her anticipation of it. ]
[As they walk through her home Alfred takes note of things, not just the obvious higher class of it but also all the small details that make it a home. Pictures, children's toys, books, and other such things.]
Were you ever a Girl Scout? [He asks after sitting down and taking the offered drink, sipping at it as he watches her. Admiring the way she moves and sits close to him.]
For a few years. [ Midge traces the rim of her glass with a finger and gazes at him, biting her lip. ]
What did you want to tell me, Alfred?
[ Yeah, she’s impatient. He came all the way over here to tell her and show her something, so he must be serious about it. This isn’t a date. If he’s trying to seduce her, then she’s ready for it. ]
[His eyes drift down to watch her finger and then up to her lips as she bites at them, when his gaze shifts back up to hers he lifts one of those heavy brows.]
Bit impatient, aren't you?
[He's teasing because he's good at it and because he's pretty sure she likes it.]
And what a lovely nightgown it is. [He says, his eyes flickering back down to glance at it and the way it hugs her curves.]
But did you really want me to just come up on your doorstop, push you inside and against a wall and put my hands all over you while I kiss you so hard you won't be able to catch your breath?
[ She realizes that she’s not wearing a bra either and that this nightgown is just barely sheer. The shape of her body is just visible under the fabric. ]
That doesn’t seem very gentlemanly of you. I can tell that you like to woo.
But I’m sure you’d rather have pushed me against a wall.
You still haven’t told me what you want to do to me, so maybe I won’t want to take you to my bedroom. Maybe I’ll be appalled and tell you to leave my apartment.
[ Unlikely, but she needs something to counter his absolutely true accusations that she’s being impatient. ]
[He chuckles and shifts a little closer on the couch, technically he has told her a few things he'd like to do but he likes that she's pushing back and challenging him. He's always liked women who do that.]
Maybe I don't need a bedroom. Maybe I prefer the idea of you stretched out on this sofa, your robe split open and my face between your thighs.
I might be insatiable. I might let you get between my legs and keep you there all night. You can be that patient?
[ Don’t think that she hasn’t noticed him inching ever so slowly closer to her. He’s like a tiger and she’s the woodland creature that is about to be happily devoured. ]
That’s good because… if we’re going to do this, and you’re not just speaking hypothetically, I might want to come a few times. It’s been a while, so I might be a little pent up.
[ He’s close enough now that she can extend her slippered foot and run it up one of his calves. ]
[That seems to be the last bit of invitation that he needs and he closes the distance between them, leaning in to press his lips against hers in a tender, warm kiss.]
[ Her lips part slightly against his when he kisses her and she wraps one of her arms around his neck. Her fingers tangle in his hair at the nape of his neck.
Midge has never been so glad that her parents are out of town and her kids are with her ex-husband. ]
[ Midge hums into the kiss, her hands moving to his chest. Her mouth opens wider, allowing him to push his tongue against hers. After a few minutes, they have to part in order to breathe. Midge rubs her nose gently against his, her body already tingling with arousal.
Wordlessly, she reaches down and unties the belt to her robe, shrugging it down off of her shoulders and leaving her in a semi-sheer nightgown. ]
[When they finally break from kissing he nuzzles her back, a little smile playing at the corners of his mouth and when she unties her robe and lets it fall open that smile just grows.]
You're lovely. [He says softly as his hands slowly slip inside the robe to wrap around her waist and pull her closer.]
[ The words sound different in his accent and she smiles. ]
I’ll bet you say that to all the girls.
[ Midge wouldn’t have necessarily predicted that they would have ended up here when they first met, but Alfred has a charm and confidence about himself that are irresistible. She wraps her arms around his neck as he pulls her closer. ]
No? [ Her tone is surprised. ] If this is the only house call you’ve made in New York, then I’m flattered that it’s me.
[ Midge closes her eyes as he kisses her neck. She removes the robe from where it’s gathered around her body and drapes it over the couch. He’s pulled her into his lap by now, the hem of her nightgown riding up to her thigh. She discreetly pulls it down. ]
I'm not going to lie, I've been with a few birds while I've been in New York but no one that I'd want to see more than once. And no one who has caught my attention like you have.
I can't say that I'm surprised. [He teases and leans in to kiss the line of her jaw.] You obviously like the spotlight and having everyone's attention on you.
[And considering he's a gentleman that actually means something and he kisses his way back to her lips, the hand on her leg moving up and inch. Pushing the hem of her nightgown up with it.]
[ She believes him. Something about hearing it in that accent makes it even more believable.
Alfred is going agonizingly slow, and Midge closes her eyes, trying to be patient. Her breathing and pulse quicken the closer he gets to exposing her. ]
[Alfred can practically feel Midge's impatience, it radiates off her skin much like the heat he can feel from between her legs and his hand continues it's path all the way there but stops just shy of her by about two inches.]
[ Midge keeps her eyes closed, waiting for his hand to start moving again, for him to continue pushing up her nightgown and finally make contact with her underwear, but after a solid 5 seconds, he doesn't move again. She opens her eyes and looks at him. ]
[ She is enjoying it. Her heart rate is up, her breathing has increased, her pupils have widened and her nipples are very obviously hard underneath her night gown. Midge might not be able to speed him up, but she’s not going to sit here and do nothing. Grabbing on to his jaw with both hands, Midge pulls him in for a more passionate kiss, pressing her lips hard to his before opening them against his mouth. Her tongue slips into his mouth, seeking his. ]
[It's as if he had been waiting for her to show him that little extra spark and when she grabs him and kisses him fiercely he responds, tonguing her back deeply as his hand slides up that final way to between her legs. Pressing against her warmth at first but then starting to rub her through her underwear.]
[ Midge moans softly against his mouth when she feels him finally rub her over underwear. She wants so much more, but she’s trying to maintain some level of patience, lest he chide her again.
She keeps giving his mouth little kisses as her hands move down his chest, feeling the muscles there. Her kisses move up his jaw until she can whisper in his ear. ]
Say something dirty to me in that accent of yours.
[ Cockney has never been on her list of sexy accents and yet here they are. That accent is exactly why he’s doing so well with women over here. ]
[Alfred isn't a big guy but the muscles he has are sleek and well defined, he was a solider for years and now he's the head of his own security business which keeps him in just as good shape.
When Midge requests he talk dirty he has to chuckle, it's not the first time an American bird has found his accent exciting and he presses his thumb firmly against her clit and whispers back.]
I'm going to make your pussy get nice and wet before I slip a finger inside you.
[ Midge huffs a little breath of frustration and squirms against him. ]
You're going to do this your way, aren't you?
[ It's not like Midge to relinquish control, but it seems like that's what Alfred wants her to do. Honestly? It's kind of hot. She's so used to telling men what to do that's it's nice to maybe finally get one who knows what to do without having to be told. He found her clit pretty easily after all.
Speaking of, the way he's touching her draws a moan from her, and a gentle rocking of her hips back against his hand. ]
[ She whispers his name like a prayer as she feels her pleasure peak. Midge inhales sharply and then softly moans out her satisfaction as the waves of her orgasm wash over her. It's an appetizer, a teaser compared to what she's sure he can do if she were naked or if he used his mouth.
[When he's sure she is hitting her peak he lets up on the pressure on her clit, not wanting to over stimulate her and cause it to slip into irritation and as she moans and sighs he kisses down to the upper swell of her breasts.]
[ Her voice is breathless, her chest rising and falling as she comes down from her orgasm. Midge's fingers thread through his hair again, tugging at it lightly as he kisses her skin. ]
[He kisses her fluttering chest as his hand moves away from her clit and up to her panty line, hooking a finger into the elastic so he can slide it down and off her.]
[ Midge lifts her hips so that Alfred can pull her underwear over them, down her legs and off. She tilts his chin up so that she can kiss his mouth properly again, showing her gratitude for his hands and how good he is with them. ]
[ She could get into a discussion of why she thinks that is, but now isn’t really the time for philosophical discussion. Midge gathers the material of her nightgown around her hips, giving him an unobstructed view of the lower half of her body. ]
Do you find American women to be more or less bold than English women?
Yes and no, like you said the Puritans came from my side of the pond and then you add on top of that years and years of monarchy influence and the strange insistence at always being polite...
[He's rambling as he shifts his body down to kiss her nipples through the silky nightgown.]
[ Midge lets him push the straps of her nightgown down her shoulders and push the fabric away. Her breasts are relatively big for her frame, perky and round, with perfect pink nipples that happen to be hardened to stiff peaks at the moment. ]
You sure you’re not feeling too overdressed?
[ He’s wearing a mock turtleneck sweater, which gives her nothing to undo or untie. Instead, she puts a hand on his chest and allows it to drift down to the hem of the sweater. ]
[Alfred looks up from her breasts, lifting both his eyebrows at her.]
I suppose I could do with losing a layer or two, seems only fair.
[He places a kiss between her breasts and then moves back enough to strip off the tight turtleneck sweater, revealing his bare chest which has pale skin and scars here and there.]
[ He’s well-built. Midge expects an Englishman to be pale, and the scars make sense based on his line of work. She runs her hand down his bare chest. She has some questions, but those can wait. For all intents and purposes, he’s got her naked in his lap, and whatever he’s planning takes precedence to conversation. ]
Better.
[ Midge guides his head back down to hers so that she can kiss him again. ]
[He kisses her back, full and deep, before making his way back down to her bare breasts where he gently laps at her pert nipples before sucking one into his mouth.]
[ She returns the depth of his kiss, sucking gently on his bottom lip until he pulls away to move further down her body. His lips close around one of her nipples and Midge inhales sharply, before exhaling a light moan. His mission seems to be to work her into a frenzy, and Midge cannot, in good faith, try to stop him from doing so. ]
[Not only is Alfred a gentleman but he is also a man of his word and when he told Midge that he was going to give her as many orgasms as he could tonight he meant it. With that intent in mind and after he has lavished a nice amount of attention on her breasts he begins to slowly kiss his way further south. Sliding his slim body between her legs.]
[ Midge opens her legs to make room for him as he moves down between them. She lifts the nightgown up and over her head, tossing it on the floor next to her underwear and Alfred’s shirt. Her thighs part, an invitation that he should continue the exploration with his mouth. Her pulse increases and she reaches down to brush back his hair. Midge can’t take her eyes off of him. ]
[Slowly his hands move off her breasts only to trail down her body, following his lips and mouth as he settles between her legs. Here he places soft kisses all over the insides of her thighs before licking at her warm, wet opening.]
[ She feels warm with arousal all over as she anticipates feeling his mouth on her folds. He’s an expert at teasing, at building anticipation. By the time he gets to her opening, he’ll find her soaking wet and ready for him.
Midge drapes one of her legs up over the back of the couch, opening herself wide for him. Any shyness she might feel is superseded by her desire to feel his mouth on her most intimate places.
A long sigh escapes her lips when he finally makes contact. ]
[She is so warm, wet and musky tasting and he hums deep in the back of his throat as he buries his face between her thighs. Licking and lapping at her as if he were trying to drink in all her juices.]
[ Midge curses softly at the sensation of his mouth against her sensitive skin. She strokes her fingers through his hair and keeps her hand on the back of his head, encouraging him to stay right where he is. ]
Alfred…
[ She sighs his name. His tongue explores everything, but her breath hitches when it finds her clit. ]
There…
[ She’s pretty sure he’s aware. He already found it once. He knows what he’s doing - and that is teasing her. ]
[It feels good having her fingers in his hair and he likes the way she holds him in the spot she wants, it's sexy when a bird knows what she wants and is assertive about it. So he stays put, licking her clit before gently starting to suck at it.]
[ Her eyes flutter shut and she moans softly. It’s been so long since someone has done this to her and it feels so fucking good. Alfred is as good at this as he said, sucking at her just right. He already warmed her up with one orgasm. It won’t be long until she has a second one. ]
[He's good at it because he enjoys it, unlike some other blokes he could happily spend hours between a woman's legs and he's never understood why some lads turn their noses up at the act. It's incredible, to make a woman writhe and moan with just your lips and tongue. To be able to watch and taste her pleasure so fully.
He continues to suck, making sure to never do it too hard as he knows that little bit of flesh is sensitive, and while he lavishes attention on her clit he also slides a finger slowly inside her.]
[ Some men only care about their own pleasure during sex. Alfred may be enjoying this, but he's not literally getting off on it, at least not yet. Midge will be more than happy to repay him for his hard work. It's also very intimate, which some men find intimidating.
Midge starts to rock her hips gently against his face in time with his tongue. She can feel his finger prodding at her entrance, then moans when he pushes it into her. Penetration is just an added bonus to the pleasure that he's already giving her. ]
[As she rocks against his mouth he slips a hand down her hip and under her ass, squeezing it a little before lifting her hips up so he can push his face even further against her. Licking and sucking hungrily as he moans deep in the back of his throat so she knows he's enjoying himself.]
[ Midge is surprised when she feels her hips being lifted by him. He holds her, thighs trembling, to his mouth as he devours her. Her eyes meet his for a split second and it’s nearly enough to make her come. ]
[When their eyes lock he feels a hot spark travel down his spine to the area between his legs which is rock hard for her, but his own pleasure can wait and he thrusts his finger in and out of her as he continues to suck her clit.]
[ It only takes a few more seconds before she’s coming for him, his name spilling from her lips. Her legs tremble and stiffen as the waves of pleasure wash over her, even more intense than the first time. ]
[When she comes he drinks her in greedily, letting up on her clit in favour of lapping up every bit of her juices that he can. When she starts to relax he gently lowers her hips and ass back onto the couch and places a few extra kisses on her fluttering stomach.]
[ She lies panting on the couch for a second, gathering her wits after another good orgasm. He’s drinking in every last drop of her, his lips and tongue moving over sensitive skin. ]
[He kisses her back, enjoying the way she doesn't shy away from tasting herself on his lips. He breaks the kiss with a little laugh though when she touches him.]
[ It seems to be exactly what he wants, and Midge is very willing to oblige. She kisses him again, then puts her hand in his in order to lead him to her bedroom.
Her room is pretty standard. She has a lot of clothes and accessories, but most of them are tucked away in her closet. Midge pulls him in close for another kiss as her fingers start to work at undoing his belt. ]
[He lets her lead him down the hall to her bedroom, he takes it all in a glance and then moves to meet her kiss. One of his hands moving to plunge itself into her hair as she works at his belt, he can feel his own anticipation building at the feeling of finally having her hands touch him.]
[ Once the belt is open, Midge scrambles to unbutton and unzip his pants by feel alone. She pulls the zipper down over his erection, then pushes the pants down over his hips.
Pulling back, she takes a breath and allows him to get his shoes and socks, as well as his pants, off of his body. ]
[To Alfred's credit he manages to get his shoes, socks, pants and underwear all off rather quickly and gracefully considering how tripped up one can get in them.
Now fully naked he approaches Midge with a smile.]
[ Once his pants are down and off, Midge glances down at his hard cock. She gives a nod of approval; he’s proportional, maybe even a little bigger than proportional. Either way, she’s pleased. Taking his hand again, she leads him to the bed. ]
[ Midge pauses with her hand on his cock. She raises an eyebrow. ]
Is two kids ‘very fertile’?
[ She kind of doesn’t think so, but he has a point. Her main method of birth control is a calendar, and accordingly, she should be okay right now, but she supposes you can never be too careful. ]
Uh. There might still be some condoms in the back of the drawer…
[ Getting up, she opens the nightstand on what used to be her ex-husband’s side of the bed and rummages around in the back. Sure enough, she finds a half full box of condoms that fortunately aren’t expired. Midge tosses it on the bed. ]
[ She’s wondered why he’s not taken or married, and wonders if it has something to do with his job. Maybe not, and it’s due to something else entirely. It’s something they might get a chance to talk about later, if they feel like opening up to each other.
Midge lies down on the bed next to him. When he takes out one of the condom packets and rips it open, Midge takes it from him. After fishing the condom out, she puts it on the tip of his cock and rolls it down the shaft. She wraps her hand around it again and starts to stroke him. ]
[He waits with bated breath as she gets back into position, allowing her to control the speed and depth in which she takes him in at but when she sinks down he can't help but groan softly. She just feels too good.]
[ Midge settles for a moment, then begins to rock back and forth on top of him. For now, most of his cock stays inside of her, but it still feels incredible. ]
Fuck, that’s perfect…
[ She moans softly and anchors her hands on his chest. ]
[He's happy to just lay where he is for a moment, watching her rock gently on his cock. Her breasts rising and falling with both the movement and her breath and he reaches a hand up to cup one softly.]
[ She smiles when he puts his hand on her breast. He’s very welcome to do that. Most men are particularly fond of her breasts.
This is going more slowly and more sensually than she thought it would, but it feels fantastic. Midge finally starts to speed up a little, pulling his cock out a bit and then pushing it back in with each thrust. She moans low in her throat as her pleasure builds. ]
[ The hand on her breast is added stimulation, and she can’t say no to that.
After building up a nice rhythm on top of him, Midge reaches down to where they’re joined and starts to rub at her clit. She can’t tell how close Alfred is yet, but she knows she’ll probably need a bit more help to reach her climax than he will. ]
[He doesn't mind that she's helping herself along, it's very sexy actually and he thrusts a little harder and faster into her. Their skin starting to make soft slapping sounds and the mattress creaking in time softly.]
[ Her breath hitches as the pleasure builds inside of her. She can feel it nearing the point of snapping thanks to his thrusts and her fingers on her clit. For his part, Alfred doesn't seem to be at his climax yet. Midge squirms on top of him, but doesn't stop touching herself. ]
[He isn't quite ready yet but he knows a way to help push himself there and he lets go of her breast so that he can hold onto her hips with both hands.]
Come for me.
[He pants and begins to thrust even harder and faster, almost bucking his hips as he uses his grip on hers to help pull her down against him.]
[ Midge falls over the edge as soon as he starts thrusting up into her with earnest. He can take as long as he needs to, so long as he doesn’t mind if she comes. He never seems to mind that.
Her head falls back and she cries out his name loudly as the pleasure inside of her reaches its peak. She trembles on top of him, the walls of her cunt contracting around his cock as he continues to fuck her.
Her hands land on his chest and she feels boneless. ]
[He doesn't quite finish at the same time as her but it's not too long after, the vision of her coming hard on his cock is enough to send him over the edge and he cries out as he comes hard inside her. His hips giving one last hard thrust before he collapses back against her pillows, panting until he catches his breath enough to speak.]
[ She laughs breathlessly as she lets his cock slip from inside her, then lays down on top of him. Finding his lips, she gives him a long, slow kiss. ]
You look very hot when you come.
[ Midge twines her legs with his, wanting to cuddle with him for a little bit and bask in the afterglow. ]
Sorry, you probably told me. What was that? [ She’s never heard of it, but she’s no military expert, especially when it comes to British military. ]
You got them in service to your country. To the world, actually. To my people as well.
[ She wonders how much action he saw and if he saw any of the death camps, of the Jews as thin as skeletons. It’s not something she’s going to ask in bed. They’re having a nice night, and she’s sure he doesn’t want to reminisce about concentration camps.
Instead, she leans in and presses her lips to one of his scars. ]
[ OOC: their timelines are probably a little off for him to have been in WWII and this also be 1960, unless he was extremely young in the war or he’s older than he said he is, but we do what we want. Timelines, schmimelines. ]
Special air service. Technically I shouldn't even tell you that I was a part of that as much of the information about SAS is classified but....fuck it.
[He says with a sigh and leans his head against hers.]
We were the men who did things others wouldn't. Covert surveillance, close-combat fighting, hostage rescue and special reconnaissance.
[ooc: in Pennyworth he says he joined up in the service at age 16 and was there for ten years, so the timing probably doesn't work but like you said we do what we want 😁]
[He knows she's making a joke but considering some of the cloak and dagger bullshit he's endured he doesn't find it funny, but he doesn't want to be rude so he huffs out a small laugh and shakes his head.]
No, you're safe.
[The feeling of her fingers in his hair is soft, soothing and he closes his eyes briefly.]
I got picked right near the end of my training, I guess they saw something in me that matched with their qualifications.
[There's a small pause as her little joke breaks through some of the serious mood that this particular topic always brings up inside him and he laughs, tilting his head to kiss her forehead.]
No, thankfully they had nothing to do with that. I come by that through my own training.
[ It’s too serious of a topic for pillow talk. Midge cares about him and wants him to be able to discuss difficult subjects if they’re on his mind, but right now it seems that both of them would rather talk about something more pleasant.
Midge picks up his hand and holds it to her lips, kissing the palm. Then, she moves it gently down between her legs until he’s cupping her warmth. ]
You wanna show me what you learned in your training?
[ooc: it feels like a good moment to end on, especially since this thread is almost at 200 comments. XD And I figured I'd just keep an eye on what memes you put her on, unless you had a specific idea you'd like to do?]
[ I don’t think I have a specific idea at the moment, but I’ll let you know if something comes up. Otherwise, I put her on a lot of memes, and you’re welcome to throw him at her any time! ]
That will probably be in another month or so, he's really sprouting up.
So far as I know Bruce never made notes when he used to visit his father at work, it was more about him spending time with his Dad than anything. It was only after they died that he started to dig into the company and how it worked.
I swear he's grown taller in this time I've been herer in Gotham.
That's still so impressive. Like, he was so young but taking it all so seriously to make his parents proud. I... There's something I've been meaning to ask you, now we're talking about that.
[Kate can see why Bruce would feel that way. It's one of the reasons why she was half-interested in humoring her mom: protecting her and her dad's legacy.
Turns out that the both of them had corrupted it from within.]
Since everything that happened with my mom, people from the company have send me emails and called me. They told me to take my time, that they would take care of things.
But now they kinda want to know if I'm going to be back, if I'm going to be part of the board myself.
It's like, do you know how sometimes someone will ask you 'what's your favorite book?' and your mind goes blank? And it feels like you've never read a book in your entire life.
I almost have a degree in business management and I've been going to work at the office many times, but I feel like I have no idea of anything. It's everything my mom and dad built. What my mom is in jail for. And I could fuck it all up.
Business doesn't always have to be about being behind a desk. And that's not true, you caught and put away Fisk. That was important and you didn't make a mess of that.
I know you guys were I know you are friends, but what if she's not the same woman you used to know?
before he brought me to Gotham, my boyfriend stopped by the penthouse to pick up Lucky and some clothes for me, my stuff. He found some paperwork too, some old files. My dad is the one who started doing business with Fisk, Alfred. Mom was left with his debts.
No one stays exactly the same but I know she would never stop loving you. Ever. You are her pride and joy, Kate. When you were born she sent me a photo and all it said was 'she's amazing, isn't she?'
She is. Just like you're different now as well. But not entirely and not so much that either of you have to loose hope.
It did seem strange to me that your mother would randomly go into business with a fella like that, she was always very ambitious about her work but never careless. Your father on the other hand was more naïve than she was, especially when it came to people.
But she crossed a very messed up line! I know she didn't want me to figure these things, but killing? Trying to kill Clint?
I didn't know you knew my dad. But, I guess I should have known. With you and mom being so close over the years. But what if you are wrong? What if like mom, Dad wasn't the good man I thought he was?
I miss her. Part of me wants to talk to her. But she probably hates me now. And she probably figured that if I start making decisions in the company I'm gonna make a mess and everything she did in dad's name, it's all going to shit.
I remember they fought a lot. During the last years.
I know you're being nice to me, Alfred. And I'm thankful. But you don't know that.
Maybe. I don't know if she knew back then or if Dad did this against her back. I remember them fighting when they thought I couldn't hear them. Now I understand why mom sounded always super mad and worried while dad was calm.
Because jumping off a building is WAY easier than taking the decisions and going through meetings when I normally can barely stay awake through those things.
That... That actually sounds perfect and exactly what I need. Specially if you and Bruce recommend him. You think I could hire him to like, learn about the company and help me out?
Well, you give pretty awesome advice. Can you at least take that compliment?
I'm sorry I was such a little shit when we first met.
I not only highly recommend him but I trust him. I think it would be better if you learned about the company and pinpointed any aspects about it that you're unclear on or need guidance on how to navigate.
You're like my british fairy godfather, did you know that? I've been kicking myself for weeks about that, trying to ignore it and afraid of eve thinking about it and suddenly its like you fixed it all up for me. And gave me a plan.
Because I look back at that first time we met (me being super late included) and all I can think of is how much you must love my mom to have put up with all of that.
About Selina or did he have a girlfriend before her? That's so adorable.
What's so hard about telling me about a super close friend? Specially as she spent the last year and a half bringing this super annoying guy home who took the libery of calling himself my step-dad. ... Now I know he wasn't a bad guy, but Jack was annoying as hell.
... Because... I don't know, it's just weird to know about every thing your daughter does, isn't it? But she... Now I understand why she wouldn't talke about things. She's probably ashamed of herself.
Probably. But he skipped a bullet with mom. Literally.
Because parents are supposed to be like cautionary tales. Of course I don't want all the details. But it's unfair that she knows so much about my life while I realize I've been raised by a stranger.
Oh bullocks to all that. Parents are not supposed to be anything except exactly that, parents. People who chose to give their time and love to their child. And you call your Mum a stranger but it works both ways, missy. You ever think that maybe your Mum would have told you more if you had asked? Or sat down and shared things with her instead of her getting random phone calls from others about you?
Oh, I'm sure she would have gladly told me all about how she was working by the freaking kinping or how she'd rather kill a man than giving me a freaking clue of what she was actually doing. Because that's it, our money is dirty and there's blood on it because of her! I'm sure she would have told me, same as she told me all about her friend the british guy.
[Kate types fast and sends it without thinking.
But a different sort of regret reaches her first, one that sounds like the Riddler when he points out that no, she's not perfect or fully a hero. Not as good as she pretends to be.
Because yes, she's sheltered and yes, that money is stained with blood.]
Or maybe he chose to protect his legacy and made a mistake. I still remember how mom would give him shit about not losing money. Well, maybe she drove him to take this decision.
Meanwhile, she's been working for more than ten years for Fisk.
[ooc: Oh God, I LOVE lil' Bruce but I yelled at the screen when he fired Alfred.
Aaaaw yes. And now taking her daughter under his wing and Kate considering him family, unaware of his past with her mom. At some point if you want I can totally play Eleanor for him. <333]
[ooc: LMAO yesss! Sean's Alfred is my fave one now. He is such a mood. XD
Yeah, I was thinking a phone call. But it would be SO sweet if Alfred visited her not only to give her an update on Kate (and maybe show her pictures ;___;) but what if he went to see her for the holidays?]
I'm really good at finding and getting things for people and some evidence retrieval, in and out, without being noticed. Selective about what I'll do for who, though.
Oh, I don't know; I'm just going to have to keep an eye on you and see if there's anything else.
Beer-wise, I like hazy if we are going quality; if we are going quantity, whatever is on tap, my PBR days are long over. Hard Alcohol: I stick to vodka or rum.
When I was 14? 70% good times, good friends. The other 30 questionable choices that make adult me think, how the hell am I alive? But I think that's a lot of people.
These days, good times, good friends.
What about you? Mister, I've always had good taste in alcohol.
Well it's good to hear that percentage has gone up.
Mister? Oh you don't have to call me that, Alfred is fine. And I'm always a fan of a good pint of lager, maybe a Guinness in the winter, and a glass of whiskey served neat.
Alright, Alfred. Anyone ever call you Alfie, or is that one of those "not if they want to live,' style nicknames? Only a few people actually call me Isadora.
I can get behind that. Guinness isn't a drink; it's lunch.
[His place isn't exactly what most would call 'lovely' and definitely not 'fancy' but it does suit his style, when he came over from London to work for Thomas Wayne the young billionaire had offered to put Alfred up in one of New York's best suites but Alfred couldn't do that. He felt out of place and had instead opted to find his own apartment and just have Wayne pay the rent instead.
When he and Midge arrive he gets the door for her, smiling to himself as he watches her expression when she sees his place for the first time.]
[ Midge looks around and nods to herself. It’s a typical bachelor pad, though the industrial elements are kind of stylish, in a way. It does seem to suit Alfred’s taste. ]
I like it. [ She takes off her coat and hangs it on a hook by the door. ] I hope I didn’t put you out by having to come bail me out tonight.
I would hope not. [ She loops her arms around Alfred’s neck. ] Unless you wanted to leave me in prison to think about what I’d done. Not that I’d change anything.
There's very few people I would leave like that, especially in prison, and you are certainly not one of them. [He says and kisses her back, running his hand down the curve of her spine.]
Sure thing. [He sneaks in one more kiss before letting her go to get them each a glass of whiskey from the little kitchen area, when he returns he sits on the bed across from her.]
Penny? [He asks, meaning a penny for her thoughts, as he passes her the drink.]
[He knows she does it because she's amazing and a bit of a rebel.]
Wayne? Nah, he's been quiet the past few days.
[Which makes him a little nervous to be honest, trouble seems to follow Thomas and when things get quiet it usually means something big and awful is about to happen.]
I'm not complaining though, it means I have time to see you.
[ooc: yup! That's cool, Alfred would tell her a bit about Wayne but still keep it very vague to help keep her from getting involved in the trouble they get into.]
Yes, I should thank him for that, though not in the same way I’m planning to thank you.
[ Midge slides into his lap and puts a hand on his chest before tilting her head up to kiss his mouth. It’s a slower, more sensual kiss than before and Midge ends it by sucking on his lower lip. ]
How can I repay you for your gallantry this evening, Mr. Pennyworth?
Nah, I'd never go that far. But I would give him a black eye or two.
[It's not like he hasn't done it before, he and Thomas are close friends now but there was a time when Alfred didn't trust him and they had gotten in a few fights.]
This is a pretty little get up....
[He says and runs his fingers along the top part of her lace bra.]
[ Midge slips off her heels, then raises her hips so that Alfred can pull her skirt down. It reveals matching panties, as well as a garter belt holding her stockings up. ]
[Once her skirt is down and off her long, slender legs he tosses it aside. Running his hand up one of her legs while he leans in to kiss her deeply, his tongue sweeping into her mouth to get tangled up with hers.]
Does that answer your question?
[He teases and gives the garter belt strap a small snap.]
[ She runs her fingers through his hair as he kisses her. His kisses are always wonderful, deep and passionate, full of his feelings for her. Midge hopes that she expresses her feelings for him in the same way. ]
[ Midge hums thoughtfully and kisses his lips as she opens his shirt. Her lips move to his jaw, then his neck, sucking gently on his skin as she goes. ]
I guess you ought to keep my naughty mouth occupied.
[He can't help but chuckle at that suggestion, his hands sliding around to grope her ass. Giving it a hearty squeeze as she slowly starts to strip off his shirt.]
[He says, shrugging the dress shirt off his shoulders and tossing it in the same area he flung her skirt. When she starts to slip between his legs he lifts his brows at her, he's pretty sure he knows what she's up to but is curious if she's going to pull any surprises.]
[ No surprises when it comes to things like this. Midge undoes his belt buckle, then unbuttons his trousers. She slides her hand inside, rubbing his erection through his boxers ]
This seems big enough to keep my mouth occupied for a little while, don’t you think?
[ He feels warm under her fingertips, the flesh hardening with each stroke of her hand. ]
[ Reaching in through the hole in the front of his boxers, Midge pulls out his cock. She wraps her fingers around the base to hold him steady as she leans down to press a kiss to the head. He’s uncircumcised, something she wasn’t used to, but makes no real difference in the grand scheme of things. Midge sucks the head of his cock into her mouth. ]
[He pulls in a soft breath when she takes his cock into her mouth, tilting his head back a bit and closing his eyes to fully savour the feeling of her wet, warm lips wrapped around him.]
Mmmm.
[He hums softly and runs his hand through her dark hair.]
[ Midge sucks him in slowly, testing to see how much of him she can comfortably take. It’s nearly all of him before she pulls him back out, her lips tight around his shaft. She keeps moving slowly for now, taking a little more of him in each time.
She likes the sensation of his fingers in her hair, holding her but not forcing her head to stay in place. ]
[He knows there are some blokes who are grabby and like to force a woman's head when in this position but he's always thought it rude, disrespectful and not to mention dangerous. After all he's the one with his member in her mouth, all she would have to do is bite down to show her displeasure and he thinks that any man who forgets that is a fool.
And besides, a man's cock isn't complicated and it's not like she needs any instruction on what to do. Encouragement however he can give plenty of that and he moans softly.]
[ Midge always knew Alfred was smart. His assessment is spot on.
Midge likes encouragement, being told that she’s doing a good job. She slides his cock out of her mouth so that she can breathe for a moment. ]
Yeah? You like that?
[ She looks up at him with big blue eyes as she teases the head of his cock with her tongue. Moving her tongue to the sensitive underside, she licks a stripe up to the hilt. ]
[The hand in her hair slides down so he can graze the top of her cheek with his thumb, which is already rough and callused from years of work and battle.]
I do. As I've said before, you have a very talented tongue.
Finish in my mouth. Then you can go down on me and I’m sure it won’t be long after that until you’re ready to go again.
[ It’s a bit of an assumption that he’ll want to go down on her, but Midge is also highly aware of how much he enjoys doing that. It’s probably a safe bet that he’ll be willing.
She rests her hands on his inner thighs, pushing his legs apart slightly more as she takes his cock back into her mouth. Midge starts slow, taking him in deep and then sucking him out with tight lips around his shaft. Then, she starts to speed up. ]
[Alfred is more than happy to go down on Midge any time she wants him to, she not only tastes incredible but he loves hearing the sounds she makes while he's down there.
For now though, knowing what she wants he is able to relax a bit more and fully enjoy the experience of her pleasuring him. Moaning softly as she starts to speed up a little.]
[ Once she’s able to get a good rhythm going, she doesn’t stop. Midge sucks him in and out, trying to make her lips tight on the pull out in order to give him that much more stimulation.
She glances up at him to gauge his reaction. She doesn’t plan to stop again until he comes. ]
[Now that he knows she wants him to come he doesn't bother trying to hold back and after a while he can feel his orgasm approaching.]
I'm close.
[He whispers to her, giving her a bit of warning so that she isn't taken by surprise and when he finally comes he moans loudly, his hips lifting up slightly as his cock shudders and spills into her mouth.]
[ She appreciates the warning. When she feels him starting to come, she sucks him in deep and starts to swallow what he gives her. Midge pulls back as he finishes, holding him in her mouth until he's completely done, then releasing him gently.
She swallows what's left and downs the rest of her whiskey to wash it down. ]
Good? [ A little smile plays at her lips. He looks quite satisfied. ]
[ Midge returns the kiss, opening her mouth against his and kissing him deeply. She likes giving him pleasure, seeing his reaction to the things she does. Needless to say, she’s very wet now.
After they part, Midge moves from the floor to sit on Alfred’s lap. ]
A fitting thank you for rescuing me tonight, my sweet knight in shining armor.
Are you allowed to have more than one? [ She puts on the very proper English accent of Queen Elizabeth. ] Alfred, you have sworn allegiance to me. You cannot also swear allegiance to Queen Midge, even if you are fucking her.
[He really shouldn't have made that joke as now her impression just reminds him of what happened back home and he shakes his head before resting it against her breasts.]
You know what? Maybe we shouldn't discuss the monarchy while in bed.... It's kind of a mood killer.
[ OOC: OMG. I saw the clip on YouTube where he gets an award from her but I didn’t know he slept with her! Get it, Alfred! Midge is a posh bird but Alfred has had the poshest bird. ]
[ Midge chuckles and runs her fingers through his hair. ]
I thought you were supposed to lie back and think of England?
[ OOC: omggggggg. His face is perfect. Tbh if he told Midge he fucked the Queen she’d be so tickled by that. He would never live that down. She would ask him so many inappropriate questions. ]
[ Midge grins at him. ]
Well, I do have better teeth.
[ She presses her lips to his again, giving him a long, deep kiss before whispering to him. ]
Are you ready to go down on me?
[ It feels a little strange to ask for that, but Alfred seems to like it when she’s bold and asks for what she wants. ]
[He teases and takes firm hold of her ass, supporting her weight as he stands up from the bed, hoisting and holding her so he can turn and then gently lay her on her back. With that done he takes a moment to remove his pants and underwear and then moves to do the same for her.]
[On some level, he knows he should have just deleted his texts instead of sending them off. He stews in shame, the kind that only feeds all the ugly feelings willing him to stay in bed and never get up.]
[His appetite is near non-existent these days. But he'd notice, of course, if Alfred's meals were any less in quality even if the effort is somewhat wasted on him.]
[He doesn't bother replying but about twenty mins later he does arrive home, heading to the kitchen first to put away groceries before going to Oswald's room and knocking on the door.]
[He lies unmoving in bed, his phone face down beside him. There's no answer, in part because he knows Alfred will step in anyway, like he always does, to see that he hasn't drunk himself to death. And because mustering the energy to talk, to draw a breath through the heaviness in his chest, is more exhausting than it has any right to be.]
[A scattering of pills and open sleeve of plain crackers litter the night table. His suit jacket hangs off the back of a chair unlike his cravat, which has wound up at the foot of the bed. The cardboard box of Ed’s things remains a tripping hazard in the middle of the room like it has for the last month. He has given up on tidying up much in the way he has given up on himself, sleeping long hours in his day clothes, more often than not. No vomit on his shirt and waistcoat this time, at least. Only sticky blotches of wine.
Sunlight slants in, piercing his eye and the soft, throbbing tissues of his brain. He flinches from it, burrowing deeper under his blanket with a miserable groan.]
[He can smell the sticky sweet stench of wine and decides that once he gets Oswald up and moving he is going to open the windows in here to air it out.]
I've prepared a pot of tea, I figured we could drink it in the solarium while we go over some of the news reports I gathered while out in the city.
[He says as he starts to take out cleans clothes for Oswald to wear for the day.]
And then we shall take a walk around the gardens to strengthen your legs.
[Last he heard, one of the bridges to the mainland was nearing repair with the help of the volunteers and supplies flying in; that much he knows from Alfred's comings and goings, his routine restocking of the fridge. But with no stake in anything anymore, the finer details of life in Gotham that he would have once kept on top of, craving knowledge, are about as meaningful to him as the writings on the back of a cereal box.
He thinks about turning over and shunning Alfred's plans, but something else springs to mind. He blinks, frowning.]
My estate... [he croaks] ...does it remain inaccessible?
[Alfred notes the way Oswald perks up ever so slightly at the thought of his home. It makes sense, the poor man probably hasn't been back there since before everything in Gotham got shut down.]
Partially.
[He replies and then expands on what he means by that.] The main roads are better but a lot of the exits leading up to your estate are still rather rough. I worry about it hurting your leg, even if we were to go slow.
[But that doesn't mean he can't go up to the estate, maybe even find a few personal belongings to bring back to cheer Oswald up. Or maybe to start preparing the estate so he can visit it himself later on when he is strong enough.]
Nothing ever seems to change, if anything it gets more crazy around here the longer I'm at it. I know I came back to the force for a reason, but that never made it easier.
That's the single best slang word for idiot I've ever heard. You know, not a bad idea. I think I might just abandon the apps and go old school though. Stop looking entirely and just let whatever happens happen. How about you, though? Any dating woes to share?
Do you have a personal favorite? I think of it more as like a pre-first meeting, I guess? Have a couple of conversations and if things seem decent, go ahead and meet up. I think it can be a pretty broad definition.
Dunno if I have a favourite but the ones I use the most aren't very proper and shouldn't be used around a lady. Pre-first meet up? Bloody hell that sounds like a lot of work, do all Americans make dating so complicated?
Well then I guess yes, I've have a few ups and downs in that department myself.
Oh, I guarantee I've heard and probably said worse. I'm not a great example of a proper lady. It's the American way. And it can be nice when you're busy. Or if you want to make sure the other person is on the level before you meet up with them. That sounds like a polite "I don't want to talk about it." I'm sorry to hear you've been having downs, though.
I must've made a better impression than I thought when I was "feed me pancakes" drunk. Oh, I don't know, because people are complicated? Because I like the idea of having someone to make time for even though I know it's not a good idea? Are there any one night stands that aren't awkward?
I've seen lots of ladies demand pancakes before, being a lady doesn't always mean being fancy you know. So why not make enough time to go grab a drink?
I wasn't thinking fancy, maybe more like proper? Or well mannered? Well, that's more or less the plan. Just trying to figure out the best route for that since the apps aren't doing it. Clearly I haven't been doing one night stands the right way.
But you are well mannered, you didn't belch in my face or anything like that while drunk. Great, 7pm tomorrow night then. Perhaps it's less about you doing it right and you not being fully comfortable with them?
I've been around posh people and they're not always ladies or gentlemen, I think to be an actual one it's more about respecting others than what fork is used with dinner. Why thank you. Never been but if you like it that's fine with me.
"Respectful of others" feels like a lot better definition than "well mannered." Consider me impressed. It's an absolute dive. Don't get anything with water in it. But they have pool tables, and you really can't beat the atmosphere.
Hah, isn't that the truth? What are you impressed by? Josie's is the dive bar other dive bars hope they grow up to be one day. Just don't let her talk you into trying any of the "special reserve."
Well, I guess that's my turn to say "likewise," then. I've never even been out of the northeast of the states. You'll have to give me a live comparison against a London pub once you see Josie's.
Karen certainly hadn't expected Alfred to invite her out for drinks, but she's nevertheless pleased that he did. He's good company, after all. And despite doing her level best to warn him off with all the various and sundry problems she typically has, he's just been...intriguingly unfazed.
She heads over to Josie's early to finish reviewing information for a case they're working on, and claims one of the high top tables in the back. She sticks out like a sore thumb in the dive of dives, wearing a skirt, blouse, and flats. But she looks comfortable regardless, relaxed even, in a place where she knows the bartender and the locals.
When she feels someone approaching, she glances up, and then smiles genuinely at Alfred, closing the folder on the table. "Hey. Glad you found the place."
It's not exactly something he was planning to do but Karen has been one of the more interesting and intelligent women he's met while being in the states and it would seem a shame not to get to know her better over drinks. And when he arrives at Josie's he also stands out, not because he looks uncomfortable but because his style of clothes are still rather European in comparison to the other patrons. He is dressed in a well fitted dark brown tweed suit with a tight black turtleneck underneath, his shoes are well polished black oxfords.
"I did." He says as he returns the smile and has a seat across from her. "Did I keep you waiting long?"
"No, no, I got here a bit early so I could finish up some case research I'm working on." Karen gives her hand a wave to brush away any concern about lateness, and then tucks the folder back into her oversized handbag. Without these plans, she would have gone back to her apartment and stayed up until 1 AM, doggedly pursuing every single thread. It's entirely likely she'll still end up doing that once they part ways.
"I like the suit, by the way," she adds with a smile. It's a good look for him. Tweed is a distinctly underrated fabric.
"What kind of case?" He doesn't expect her to give him a lot of details but there's no harm in asking, she might feel like sharing tonight. He looks down at his suit and then back into her eyes, giving her a little nod of thanks.
"Corruption. I'm just looking into some shell companies right now." It's her bread and butter - the exact kind of investigating that she really excels at and sometimes even gets lost in. There's something immensely satisfying about finding just the right thread to pull to completely unravel something.
"We might both be overdressed for a dive," she answers, sounding entertained by the thought. No one's really paying them any mind regardless, because that's just not the vibe at Josie's. "So, what are you going to brave drinking here tonight?"
"Well, you can't go wrong with cheap beer," Karen answers, smiling as she leans in towards the table, as if conspiring. "I'd suggest we do a pitcher. The price ends up just slightly north of dollar drafts. And if you're in the mood for whiskey or scotch, anything with the label turned out is a fair bet."
Meaning: there are a few bottles with the label turned towards the back. The last time she'd braved one of those, it had been the bottle with an eel in it she and Foggy killed after a terrible day.
He chuckles and leans in as well, "Oh trust me you can go wrong with cheap beer, if you drink enough of it. But a pitcher will do fine, how about we go a step up and get a lager so I won't spend all evening complaining about American beer?"
He STILL isn't used to that part, the strange insistence that Americans have that things like Budwiser and PBR is actually good tasting.
"Yeah, but that's more the choice of quantity than the choice of beer. You might even be able to make an argument for getting shitfaced on a dime," Karen answers, a glimmer of mischief in her eyes as she lets out a little laugh.
Even so, her lips press together, and she's clearly trying not to dash his hopes. "Um, they usually have Red Stripe as their...most impressive lager. But Corona might be your best bet if you're looking for a better flavor."
With a smile, she slides off of her stool. "Yeah, it's just Josie herself that works behind the bar. I'll introduce you."
Consider his hopes dashed, Karen. And he sighs heavily as he slips off the bar stool to walk with her over to the bar.
"I suppose Red Stripe will do for the first round." But after that he might switch to whiskey, "But next time I'm taking you to a proper pub so you can have good beer."
"I tried to warn you," Karen answers when he sighs, clearly trying not to laugh as she leads the way over to the bar. "I don't even know if I'd recognize what good beer tastes like at this point. So...I'll look forward to it."
Josie gives Karen an up nod, walking over as they approach. "Who's the fancy man? You adopt another lawyer?"
With a grin, Karen puts her hand on Alfred's arm. "No, this is Alfred. Alfred, this is Josie. We're going to do a pitcher of Red Stripe."
"Alfred Pennyworth, pleased to meet you ma'am." He says, his accent making the word sound more like 'mum' and he offers Josie a charming side smile, she huffs a small laugh.
Karen has to hide her smile behind her hand, turning her head to the side when Alfred greets Josie politely. Just as she'd expected, her response is to point out his British manners with her typical dry humor.
"Pretty sure you might be the first Brit to ever drink here," Karen points out, sounding amused as she lightly bumps her shoulder against his.
"About time we expand our demographic."
Josie finishes filling the pitcher and sets it on the bar with two glasses.
"But can we even really call it a dive if it's got a great beer selection?" Karen points out, in the tone of someone that is clearly always game for a low stakes argument. She thanks him as he pours the beer, and lifts her glass towards him before taking a sip.
There's a contemplative look on her face as she considers his assessment of London vs. New York dives. "I'm weirdly pleased that we're making a good showing here," she decides after a moment. "And no, Josie took down all but one of the dart boards after a fight broke out using the darts. But I'll kick your ass at pool if you want to play a game." Somehow, she manages to make the offer innocently, even smiling despite the challenging gleam in her eyes.
"Isn't that a problem with a lot of the beer here in the states? I'm not a beer connoisseur, but I feel like I've heard some micro-brewery bros saying that." Karen's not even sure she can call herself 'discerning' as regards to beer. It all tastes the same to her. Anytime someone has handed her a glass of something and described it as like 'aromatic' or 'with a fruity aftertaste,' she just finds it tastes the same as every other beer she's tried.
His assessment of the dart fight is met with a grin. "Someone did get a dart stuck in their head. He didn't notice, which was impressive enough to put a pause on the fight." That had certainly been one of the more colorful nights at Josie's in recent member.
She lifts her hands in mock surrender when he arches his eyebrows. "That barely counts as pool sharking. I didn't even try to convince you to put money on the game."
"It's one of many." Not only do Americans seem to think that beer should taste like water but they also seem to have never learned the art of a good dark beer, like a Guinness, something that sticks to your ribs and is almost a meal.
"Now the real question is did he pull it out and keep playing?"
He has another sip of beer and offers her a smirk, "Course you didn't. That would have been too obvious, you look like the type of shark to get the game going first and then make the offer of cash. Reel me in slowly."
"Wow. You're a full beer snob, aren't you?" Karen asks, lightly ribbing him with a smile. "Guess I can't blame you. I feel the same way about maple syrup." She's only half joking. It's mostly just the big name brands that she doesn't like the taste of.
His question about the dart prompts a laugh as she shakes her head. "Oh, he wanted to. Foggy - uh, one of my friends and co-workers - just about knocked him down when he realized what was happening."
She takes a sip of beer herself, giving him a look of wide eyed innocence that she clearly can't maintain. It's obvious that she's trying not to laugh again. "Is it weird that I'm flattered you think I look like a shark?"
He takes the ribbing well, returning her smile with one of his own. "Maple syrup? Really? You big into pancakes or do you use it on everything?"
Her wide eyed innocent look though only earns her another brow lift, "Not just look. I know you are." He then laughs and gives her a little nudge. "I'm rubbish at pool by the way, so there would be no challenge for someone of your skills."
"No, I'm from Vermont, originally. We used to get, uh, real syrup just from other people in town. The taste is completely different than anything you can get in the grocery stores here. It's like a nostalgia thing, I think." Or at least, nostalgic for when things at home were simple and not...screwed up and complicated.
She laughs a little when he nudges her. "Well, that wouldn't be very sporting, then," she agrees, giving him a light nudge in return. "I could be persuaded to teach you. Or we could play never have I ever."
"Vermont is the maple syrup connection hrm?" He asks, lifting both brows up. "And here I thought it was Canada. Guess I'll have to make you pancakes again so I can try it."
He seems to consider her offer and then looks around at how busy the bar is and then gives her a sheepish little smile.
"Somehow I think playing never have I ever would be safer for everyone around us." Because he wasn't lying, he really is rubbish at pool and will likely send one of these balls flying off across the room.
"Second most serious about syrup, right after Canadians," Karen answers, grinning. It's one of those things that's both - joking and not joking all at once. A lot of things about Vermont are like that.
She watches the way he gives the bar a quick assessment, and then chuckles a little at that sheepish smile. "Wow, you're really a menace with a cue, huh?" She considers him for a moment, and then sounding amused, opens up the game with a "never have I ever visited a foreign country." It's a fairly easy starting point, all things considered. Maybe she's just taking pity on him after making him admit how truly bad he is at pool.
He is a menace with a pool cue, both at the game and wielding one in a fight.
"Starting me off easy?" He asks as if reading her mind, "I've been to two at this point. But if you could pick a country to visit which one would it be?"
Karen has seen someone use a pool cue in a fight before. It's oddly impressive.
"Oh, 100%," Karen agrees, not even trying to hide it. Though she does point at his glass to indicate that she still expects him to take a drink. "Two in addition to England? And oh, I don't know..." she trails off for a moment, mulling over her options. "I want to say somewhere warm, just because I love the beach. But maybe Italy, actually. The food, the architecture, the museums."
"So that leaves America and...?" she asks. Part of her wonders if the answer is going to be one of the countries neighboring England - though she suspects it'll be wherever it was he was deployed while he was in the service. "That is a point in favor of Italy," she agrees. "Some of the beaches look gorgeous too."
There's just a hint of a smile on her lips as he considers his move, and she immediately bursts out in a laugh at the one he comes up with. "Wow, someone's jumping right in the deep end." She's picking up her glass as she talks, and she meets his eyes as she takes a sip. "Not well, though. I had the most ridiculous bruises one time."
"America and Malaysia." He says but gives no further details which means her assumption is correct, the other place he's been was when he was in the army.
"I kind of thought that was the point of the game." He counters and waits to see if she will take a sip or not, smiling when she does.
"One time? That seems to imply there were other times."
Karen just nods her head, not pushing it when he gives a short answer on where he's traveled. She can put two and two together. She's never met anyone that was in the service that is keen to talk about the details of what happened.
She gives him a grin that almost looks more like a smirk. "You didn't specify how many times. That's all you get. But since we're going right in the deep end..." She trails off for a moment, looking thoughtful. She sounds a bit mischievous when she continues, "never have I ever gotten caught in flagrante delicto."
He lifts his brows at her, his smile growing wider. "If you're going to be pulling out the Latin, Miss Page, then I'm going to have to ask exactly what you mean by flagrante delicto."
She watches the way his brow arches, the way there's undeniably a challenge in that smile as he answers her. She can't help but laugh a little. "Well," she begins thoughtfully, taking a sip of her beer before she sets it down.
"If we're talking strictly Latin, the exact definition is 'in blazing offense.'" She lifts her hands, spreading them apart as if to illustrate the point. "Of course, legally speaking, it's a term that means someone has been caught in the act of committing a crime. It's often used in conjuncture with the phrase 'compare corpus delicti,' which refers to the essential facts of the crime that was committed."
Karen allows for just a momentary pause there. There's a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "But if we're just talking slang, flagrante delicto means hooking up. But I think what you're trying to get me to say is 'never have I ever been caught fucking someone.'"
She arches a brow back at him, as if to say, how'd I do?
How'd she do? Considering he has a soft spot for highly intelligent women who challenge those around them it would be safe to say she is doing quite well and her sudden switch from definition to depravity makes him laugh.
"Oh is that what you meant?" He teases before he looks her in the eye and takes a drink, then another, and then another.
"Three times. Once at home, once in a car, and once in a pub."
Karen can't help but laugh herself, still meeting his eyes as he deliberately takes three separate sips of his drink. "Wow, Alfred. What's that saying? Once is an accident, twice is a coincidence, but three is a pattern?" The grin lingers on her mouth as she teases him lightly.
Her chin rests on her hand as she leans in a bit, adding on, "I'm still not going to tell you how many times I danced on the pole, though."
"Oh, 100%," Karen agrees, evidently unabashed and even downright entertained by his teasing comment.
His follow up comment, on the other hand, earns a laugh as her cheeks pinken, which she can do nothing to hide. "It was mostly at college parties, so tips weren't really involved."
Karen feigns like she's going to reach for her glass...then pulls her hand back and gives her head a shake as she grins.
"I never actually went to college," she says with a grin. "Just got invited to the parties at the closest university. And crashed the ones I didn't get invited to."
She's pretty sure she'd be taking a sip if she had gone to college. She's reliably pretty skilled at getting in trouble.
Considering her options for a moment, she continues with, "never have I ever sent someone a dirty picture...with my face in it."
"I was going to major in English," Karen admits with a somewhat nostalgic look on her face. "My only other hobby other than getting in trouble was literature." Really, it's no wonder she eventually ended up in the journalism and investigation field. It's the exact center point of 'magnet for trouble' and 'really enjoys doing research.'
She can't help but smile a little as he pushes the glass away. "To be clear, no one should send those pictures unsolicited. That can be...harrowing." Her nose wrinkles in a way that makes it clear she has absolutely been on the receiving end of an unsolicited picture.
Even so, scars might not be the deterrent he thinks they are. That or it's just her aforementioned affinity for trouble.
He doesn't doubt that she's been on the receiving end of such photos, she's a beautiful woman and there are so many men out there that don't have the manners he does. He pulls his drink back, turning the glass a little as he thinks about his next go at the game.
Karen pauses for a moment to consider the question, then lets out a snort of laughter as she shrugs and takes a sip. "I'm going to have to drink for a lot of these, and in my defense, I was a real hellion until - oh, 24? 25? And I was really tired that night."
After thinking over her round, she decides on, "never have I ever hooked up with someone in a pool."
He chuckles and wags a finger at her when she tries to swiftly change the subject. "Hold up. I have a follow up questions. First, how did the person you were having sex with take you nodding off?"
He holds up a second finger, "And second, how old are you now?"
"Oh God," she groans, the sound trailing off into a laugh as she runs her hand over her face. "We were both really high?" she admits, looking well and truly embarrassed by it. Her younger self had a lot of ideas about how to best spend her time, and how to avoid thinking about everything that often went wrong. "I think he made a joke about it, so he wasn't mad. It did kind of ruin the mood, though."
His follow up question is met by an amused look. "How worried are you that I'm going to say '26'?" Because she can sympathize. She'd probably turn tail and run if someone were just months out of that much nonsense. "I'm 35. You?"
"What does 35 look like?" Karen asks, mirroring his arched brow as she asks, as if emphasizing the question. It's not the first time someone's expressed surprise at her age. She's pretty sure it's just down to using moisturizer and not spending a lot of time in direct sunlight.
"Well, I figured it was fair game since you asked first," she points out, a hint of warm humor in her voice.
"Oh, is that how that saying goes?" Karen asks, smiling a little as he gives her that quick once over. "How can I make it up to you?"
His theory about her dancing on the pole kept her in shape prompts another quick laugh, and she gives her head a shake. "I think it's actually a combination of uh, adrenaline and anxiety?" she suggests, in a way that sounds like she's making a joke that might have some truth behind it. Her life has been known to occasionally get...high octane.
He's happy to make her laugh again, it's a nice sound but when she admits to the actual reason behind her slim figure he tilts his head ever so slightly.
"Adrenaline I can understand but what are you anxious about?"
"I'll do my best," Karen answers, giving the answer as solemnly as she can despite the absurdity of the situation.
His question is met with a reassuring smile, and she reaches across the table to rest her hand on his arm. "Nothing right now, don't worry. It just goes hand in hand, I think, with the kind of investigation I do? Like I can't imagine doing anything else, but there's definitely still times I've thought I was in over my head."
He suspects it's a lot more than that but now is not the time to start talking about anxiety and fear, he'd rather have a pleasant date with her so he places a hand over hers and gives it a reassuring squeeze and then circles back to her question about the pool.
"There aren't too many people who have pools in London, but I once did it in a jacuzzi tub so should I take a half sip?"
The particulars of Karen's career tend to (correctly) alarm people when she gets into it. She's glad when he doesn't ask more, and instead returns the squeeze as he takes her hand. There's a slight smile at the corner of her mouth.
"I think you can be allowed a full sip for that. You shouldn't be penalized for lack of access."
His offering of a round does prompt a laugh, mostly at the turn of phrase. "I don't think I've ever heard someone refer to it as 'the splits.'" Nevertheless, she picks up her glass to take another sip of her drink. "I think I'd pull something if I tried to do it now though. That's the real way you know I'm 35."
It's an obviously joking reference, and she keeps her glass in hand, looking thoughtful. "Never have I ever gotten a tattoo."
Karen's not sure that half way would be that impressive, but she still looks amused. Largely by the mental image of herself trying to do a split at Josie's. Not that she'd voluntarily touch the floor in there.
Even so, she's visibly surprised when he says that he has not one, but two tattoos. "I wouldn't have pegged you as a tattoo guy," she admits, smiling. There's a momentary pause, and she lets out a laugh, her face turning pink. "I almost asked 'can I see them?' instead of 'what are they of?'" She's not even feeling tipsy yet - just apparently quite comfortable in his company.
The look of that blush sweeping across her cheeks is very charming and beautiful and he tips her a wink, "I'd show you but I don't want to get Josie overly excited. Unless you think that would help us get another round of beer..."
And speaking of beer he takes another sip of his, motioning at his left bicep. "The one here is of a jungle rat, something I got with two other lads in my unit."
"The one on my back is my family crest, I got it after my father passed away."
She wrinkles her nose at him when he winks at her, albeit in a playful way. And then she lets her eyes drift over to the bartender, who appears to be making a drink with a pickled egg in it despite the fact that she's never seen pickled eggs in the bar. "Honestly, could go either way with her."
While he explains his tattoos, she listens, taking a sip of her own drink. "I have to guess the jungle rat was either an in joke or a nickname in your unit." That often seems to be the way with the people she knows that have served. The mention of his family crest gets an understanding look, and her hand finds its way back to give his a squeeze again. "I don't think you mentioned that he passed when we briefly talked about family before. I'm sorry. It never gets easier, does it?" There's only a moment of hesitation before she continues, "my mother passed when I was 16." There's - so much more to it than that, but that's exactly when her life starts to get messy. It's not a stone she's eager to flip over.
Much like her there's more to the story of his father's passing than he's willing to divulge at the moment but her kindness means a lot and he laces his fingers through hers.
"It doesn't." He says, his eyes growing sad. "I didn't always have a great relationship with him but I'm grateful we somewhat put things to rest before he passed a few years ago."
Clearing his throat he circles back to something slightly less upsetting, his army tattoo.
"The tattoo is a bit of an in-joke, we were stationed in the jungle and were always mucking about in the dirty parts. Thus the rats."
"I'm glad you were able to have some resolution with him," Karen answers, sincerely. Part of her suspects that they should actually talk about their families one day. The circumstances are different, but there's absolutely an understanding there. Not just with the loss of her mother, but her and her father will never have a relationship more than 'distant' and 'barely cordial' again.
She leaves her hand entwined with his as he goes back to the topic of his service tattoo, smiling a little. "Sounds like you were deployed with a good unit. It's always seemed to me like that kind of camaraderie and trust is really important."
Thankfully Alfred still has a good relationship with his Mum, if he didn't he would probably be getting into even more trouble than he already does but the fact that he can call and talk to her helps a lot. No one loves him like his Mum does.
"Important and necessary, they're literally the people you depend on to keep you alive. My unit had a lot of good lads, not all of them made it, but thankfully my two best mates did. Bazza and Daveboy."
"Bazza and Daveboy?" Karen repeats, a smile slowly returning to her lips at the obvious nicknames. They've effectively pushed away any other thoughts, at least for the time being. "Sounds like they could host a really successful drive time radio show together." Something with a lot of sound effects and punchy outros.
She arches a brow, a hint of mischief in her gaze as she continues, "I have to know what your nickname was if you had one. I'm prepared to bribe you."
"Oh I doubt that, Bazza isn't exactly the talkative type and Daveboy runs his mouth every chance he gets. So it would only be successful if people enjoyed listening to a drunk Irishman go on and on while his mate sighed all exasperated in the background."
He smiles to himself, clearly warmed by thoughts of his friends.
"Sounds like the makings of a great show to me," Karen answers, smiling a little at the thought. It's obvious that he's fond of his friends. She gets that. Matt and Foggy's friendships mean the world to her.
When he owns up to his nickname, her smile widens. "Alfie, huh? That's cute. It suits you."
"It's sweet that it came from her," Karen reflects with a half smile. Nice to think that there's a through line from his childhood to the person he'd become.
Lifting her free hand, she gives it a little wobble. "Karen's not really a name you can make a lot of nicknames from. I'll get Kare sometimes. My mother used to call me Kare Bear, but I don't really like it when anyone else does." Too many memories.
Karen makes a face at that, though she can't help but laugh a little. "Pretty sure I've only heard that when I've been catcalled," she admits. A smile curves her lips. "Maybe it depends on the context. Let's hear an example."
"Wasn't expecting to have to come up with an example." He says and then pauses to think for a moment. "How about...you having a good time so far, Blondie?"
"Not bad," Karen admits, as if actually weighing the sound of the nickname. "Kind of charming when you say it, even." After a brief pause, she continues, holding his gaze from across the table as the smile lingers on her lips. "And I am, yeah. I'm glad you asked me out."
"Something like that," Karen agrees. She'd be hard pressed to deny the fact that he's naturally charming.
"You'd be a lot drunker if you were," she points out, amused as she lifts the pitcher so she can top off both of their glasses. "Speaking of which...I lost track of whose turn it was."
"I can live with a tie," Karen answers. Honestly, it's best to tap out of playing Never Have I Ever early before things start to get too specific.
His question about Josie's is met with a smile. "Uh, since I started working with Matt and Foggy. It's their favorite bar, and they started bringing me along once I was officially employed with them. All the regulars that come here look out for each other, you know? It's nice. Do you have a favorite local pub you like to go to back home?"
"Is Foggy his real name or a nickname?" He asks and then looks around the bar at all the other patrons, nodding.
"Course. Local pubs are far more common where I'm from, my local is one that's been in our neighbourhood for many years. The owner, Jon, is a good bloke. He used to let me do a lot of works deals there since it was a safe space."
Well that and it's not like Alfred had a proper office.
"Nickname. His real name is Franklin," Karen answers with a smile. "He and Matt were roommates in college. Apparently he snored like a foghorn." It weirdly almost suits him more than Franklin does. She always finds herself taken by surprise when someone uses his given name.
"What was it called? A lot of British pubs seem like they follow the same naming convention. Adjective noun." She always gets a kick out of the names when someone mentions going to a British pub. His comment about doin his work deals there prompts an interested look. "What kinds of deals?"
"Roommates and now co-workers, I imagine that gives the office a bit of a more relaxed feel than some other law firms." He says and then chuckles at her comment about British pubs because she's not wrong.
"The Severed Arms. And by deals I mean work contracts, security gigs and the like." A small pause. "I helped Jon out with a bloke who was bothering his daughter so he opened up his business to mine."
"Considering we worked out of the Nelson's family meat store for a while...I think it's a pretty unique vibe." Maybe not entirely relaxed, because the three of them do still all wear business clothes for their office hours and in court.
"Oh, that's brutal," she answers with a laugh when he names his local pub. She can just picture what the sign must look like. And she can't help but smile when he mentions how he helped the owner out. "It was nice of you to give a hand. That sounds like it was a good arrangement."
"No, that's not his style. To be clear, he does craft a really impressive threat. But it's all entirely based on things that are legal." Honestly, it's wildly impressive to behold when he really gets on a tear.
Matt is much more likely to leverage a butcher shop style threat. Though that's really only during his...extracurriculars that she's not at liberty to share.
There's a pause after his comment, and she lets out a laugh, trying (and failing) to give him a look that looks more genuinely scandalized than playfully so. "Sounds like things heated up after you gave her a hand."
Karen just looks amused when he makes his confession, coupled with that guilty little look. Honestly, it makes sense. He's a good looking guy. And she's pretty staunchly determined to solve all of her own problems, but she's not immune to the appeal of having someone in your corner.
"Wow. That second time was the real choice, huh?" she points out with a grin, just lightly ribbing him. "Sounds like you're a regular heart breaker, Alfred. Should I be worried?"
It had mostly been a joke, but it is the sort of statement that deserves an answer. Especially considering how...elusive she tends to be when it comes to talking about the specifics of her work. She presses her lips together, looking thoughtful for a moment.
"Well, uh, I'm great at first dates," she begins, all self-deprecating humor. "Anything beyond that I try to be careful. I investigate criminal activity and corruption, I write articles about it. There's people in this city that would probably consider me their enemy for the work I do. And for the people I work with." It's not like Matt and Foggy are exactly passive in the cases that they take on. "I hate the idea of getting someone caught up in that. So it gets...complicated."
"You try to be careful or you try to distance things?" He asks with a little smile, amused at the fact that her pattern of dating is very similar to his own for very similar reasons.
"Usually one or the other. Or both," Karen admits, looking amused that he's so accurately called her out on it. There's really no point in trying to refute it. "Sounds like you're speaking from experience there."
"You're not wrong there," Karen agrees, tipping her head in acknowledgment.
The statement about him getting shot at more than she does gives her pause as she tries to track exactly how high that number is and realizes she's going to need more than a quick moment of mental math to get there. "Well, it's usually not on a weekly basis?" she says after a moment with a helpless shrug. "It's not my favorite part of the job. But I can't imagine doing anything else."
He leans back in his chair and laughs, "Nor mine but I guess it's all part and parcel."
But in a way that's kind of good because it means Karen actually understands parts of his job more than most the women he's met who always say they get it and accept it but later it causes issues.
"Could you imagine doing this again?" He asks, gesturing to the bar and them.
"Yeah, less of a fringe benefit and more of a, uh, borderline drawback?" she suggests, a glimmer of amusement in her eyes as she takes a sip of her own drink.
His question is met with a thoughtful look, a slight smile at the corner of her mouth. "Maybe not at Josie's. But yeah. Do you think you can handle not being involved when I have a dangerous case?" She figures it's a fair question, if fairly direct. And an important one. Keeping people from being caught in the crosshairs of her bullshit is her top priority.
"I believe so." He answers but then lifts a brow at her, "Do you think you can handle not always getting the full story from me about my work or the people who hire me?"
After all he works with some people who require anonymity.
It's a fair question. One shoulder lifts in a shrug. It makes sense that people that want to hire a private security company would also have some conditions of anonymity. "So long as you're not involved in anything shady, I don't think it'll be a problem. If your name turns up in one of my investigations, I'll have a lot of questions."
"Guess that depends on what you define as shady." He says and then expands before she can answer, "If you mean am I working for criminals that are hurting and killing folk? No. But am I always working for saints? No."
"Life's a lot more shades of gray than people usually think," Karen answers. It's clearly something that she's spent a lot of time thinking about. "My sources aren't always fine, upstanding citizens. I'm going to guess that means you've been known to work for some incredibly rich people?" she guesses, sounding amused. Morals tend to get...questionable...once people get into higher tax brackets.
"I've worked for incredibly rich but I've also worked for incredibly poor." He twirls his pint glass with his one hand, "But for the most part I work for Thomas and Martha unless things are dry."
He is intentionally leaving out their last names, he knows that Karen is clever and will recognize the last name Wayne. How could she not when the family is incredibly rich and one of the most powerful in Gotham?
"Sounds like you have a good relationship with them. That must be nice consistency in your line of work." She's met a few other guys that work in private security. The aggressively corporate types remind her of nothing so much as sharks in fancy suits. He strikes her more as the other type, like the draw is in doing something he's good at on his terms.
Karen won't run a search on his usual employers, but there's a non-zero chance she'll put two and two together at some point anyway.
"Also sounds like we should plan to go out again sometime," she suggests with a smile.
It's not what you've said but that's sure what it sounds like.
[He sits back far in his chair, looking at her coolly.]
I've worked hard to become my own man, to start a business and when you come from absolutely nothing that's a much harder road to go than you'd ever be able to imagine, Kate.
[Finally he turns his gaze away from her, looking down at Lucky who is nuzzling his knee.]
[Kate sinks back on her chair, aware that there's no point in arguing.]
I'm sorry, I didn't mean that. [She takes a deep breath.] You know I care about you, don't you? And I look up to you in many ways, you're a pretty inspiring guy, Alfie.
You can care about someone and still think they're a tosser.
[He says and gets up from the table, clearly still upset but after taking two steps he turns back to her.]
But while we're on the subject, who are you to question if I'm going to do this forever? What about you? You plan on hanging off rooftops and shooting arrows at bad guys for the rest of your life?
Well next time you might want to watch your phrasing.
When you say 'Really? This is all you ever wanna do with your life?' [He says, saying her phrase back at her with the same tone.] it tends to sound a lot less like a question and more like a shitty judgment.
[Alfred turns away for a moment, not because he's angry but because standing up so suddenly has made the room spin a little and he doesn't want Kate to see how pale he is.]
Because you're acting like your apology means more than my feelings and that since you said sorry once I shouldn't have anything else to say on the subject.
And because you're slamming things about because I dared to point out that you did something wrong.
[He explains as he puts a hand on the table to steady himself.]
Edited (Argh typos!) Date: 2025-03-05 06:30 am (UTC)
I'm not pretending my apology is more important! But what else do you want me to do? Cry and get on my knees to--
[But she notices it. The second she turns around to keep yelling at him, she notices the way Alfred leans his weight onto the table.
Without thinking it twice, she comes to him, holding his shoulders in the hopes that will steady him. Only then does she notice how pale he is looking.]
[The second his head sags, Kate cups his cheek and pulls him towards her, letting Alfred rest his head on her shoulder. But she notices that look first. She embraces him, making sure he feels supported.]
I really am sorry, I never meant to hurt you. And I'll try to listen, I promise.
[One of her hands, with her fingers spread, moves up his spine. But she is careful of not touching too close to the wound. She moves head head, her cheek touching Alfred's.]
You're one of my few friends here. A real one.
[But she's just that. He doesn't let her get anywhere closer.]
[She snorts, turning towards her closet to go grab a pyjama.]
Just checking in case you kick in your sleep.
[Heading to the bathroom, it's not long before Kate comes back in an oversized t-shirt and barely visible shorts, climbing on the bed and onto the spot next to him.]
[Now waking up in a cold sweat due to nightmares? That's a different story, but he doesn't mention that to her. Usually the people he shares a bed with don't notice and when she exits the bathroom in her pj's he can't help but give her a look over.]
[She reassures him before slipping off the bed again. As Kate goes downstairs to get his glass, Lucky heads upstairs and joins him, curling next to Alfred and resting his head on his legs.
Kate returns, handing him the glass.]
Do you need another blanket or pillow? Painkillers? Privacy now that someone else stole my spot?
[It's been a while since he's shared a bed with someone he wasn't sleeping with and in a way it's almost more intimate than if they were naked and fucking, having her cuddle up against him like they're an old married couple watching TV before bed. It reminds him of his own parents and of what could have been if Esme had lived and before he can stop himself he leans his head against hers as they watch the film. His heart beating hard in his chest as a lump forms in his throat.]
[Kate's quite relaxed. Confident that whatever Alfred wants, she is not part of it. Not in the way she had hoped. And so she soon scoots even closer, wrapping an arm around his chest and laughing quietly at some of the ridiculous scenes on the screen.]
[It's hard to resist her warmth so when she snuggles even closer he allows it, slouching down a little further and enjoying her comforting weight on his chest.]
I was about to say that, but I thought you wouldn't agree! I'm so ordering a flame thrower tomorrow! [She jokes before settling back down against his side, now more obviously pressing up against him.]
Yeah. But what's the point of being the boss if you can't cancel stuff, right?
See? [Again, not noticing, she smacks his chest in her excitement.] That's exactly what I mean. Besides, I shouldn't really leave you on your own. What if you need another glass of water?
Sorry. [She smiles, sounding more calm but still truly apologetic. Again, Kate settles down by his side, now properlu cuddling Alfred.] That came out without thinking.
But, hey! You're a real tough guy. And now you have even more reasons to take the day off tomorrow and spend it with me.
[He opens his mouth to say 'I'm not rubbing anything' but another yawn takes him and instead of making the innuendo he smiles at the little kiss and nuzzles down further, his eyes slipping shut as sleep slowly takes him away from any lingering pain.]
No offence Kate, but I don't think that's true. Not when you've carried your dead mate on your back for miles only to bury him in the ground. Not all British people are like Monty Python.
[The ER is crowded when he arrives, and Karen is sitting on a gurney bed in the hallway. Her discharge paperwork is on the bed next to her, along with a bag that has her shirt and some instant cold packs inside.
She's wearing an oversized navy blue scrub top from one of the nurses, which looks entirely at odds with her dress pants and flats. She's typing a text one handed, because her left arm is immobilized in a sling. There's a few other smaller injuries - a cut on her lip, and one on her cheek that looks like it might be on a spot that's going to turn into a bruise.
Glancing up, she spots Alfred and smiles, pointing her phone at him.] Heeeeey! Okay, again I have to say I'm fine. You look weirdly good under hospital florescents, though.
[Karen just smiles at the roll of his eyes, tipping her head up into the press of his lips on her forehead.]
Since when? Um, woozy, I think. And starving.
[She tucks her phone into her purse, then gathers that up along with the bag from the hospital and the discharge papers. Slipping to her feet, she pauses for a moment, feeling another wave of that gelatinous uncertainty that comes with painkillers.]
Thank you again, for getting me. Did this take you away from anything?
[It's likely rapidly becoming apparent that Karen's filter may just be...entirely gone, thanks to those pain meds working their way through her system.
Though she keeps her footing, she does lean in against him, and surrenders the bag of stuff without hesitation.
It's been a long night.]
Are you ready to be wowed by the fries and shake combo?
[He makes sure she's in and buckled up before closing the door and coming round to the driver side, which is still odd for him since it's on the wrong side.]
It's technically on loan from someone so don't go thinking I'm living a posh life.
Is posh a bad thing? You're definitely not a bad thing.
[The comment is delivered fondly, a slight smile curling her lips. His question about White Castle makes the grin widen as she lets out a laugh.]
No - I mean, the restaurants themselves are sort of...vaguely castle shaped. But it's not medieval themed otherwise. Their sliders are really good. So are the fries. Like, top tier fast food.
[Still, his assessment of White Castle causes a laugh to bubble up out of her, in a way that it's clear she's genuinely amused. Possibly by the use of bloody hell.]
Sliders are just little burgers. I think they've been making them the same way since like...1920 or something. You have to try at least something. I promise I will make it up to you if you don't like it.
[A promise delivered with the acute sincerity of someone swimming through the haze of pain meds.]
Then why not just call them mini burgers? Sliders doesn't exactly bring up a pleasant image, especially when you want to have an appetite.
[He says as he takes a left turn towards the area Karen waved at, he spots the glowing sign and concentrates on getting into the right lane to turn into their drive through.]
[Well, that answer certainly takes her by surprise, and she lets out a snort of laughter.]
Oh, that's gross. Is that a British slang thing?
[Her nose wrinkles as she considers it, though the expression fades when he offers to pay, and she beams a smile over at him instead. Her head tips back to rest against the headrest.]
Are you sure? I already dragged you all the way over here. I'm surprised you didn't ask what happened yet.
[She reiterates her sentiment on the idea, though she's still smiling back at him as she lets her card fall back into her purse.]
Thank you. I appreciate...all of this, really. You're a good guy. [There's a beat before she continues, talking quickly in the way that she does when she really means something.] And don't tell me that you're not because of what you do. You can do what you do and still be a good person.
I wasn't about to argue with you on that, I know I'm no prince and I've certainly done some violent things but I'd like to think I'm a decent enough bloke.
[There's a pause, and then she can't help but smile again, looking amused at herself.]
Sorry. I'm glad you know that. I think I'm just...used to people not being able to see the good in themselves. I jumped the gun. I'm glad you know that you're good, though.
[It's clear that she doesn't realize that she's repeated herself there. Karen moves a bit, like she's thinking about reaching over to touch his arm or hand, and then remembers that her arm is immobilized. She makes a face. It's going to be a miracle if the sling makes it to the end of the night, never mind the full length of time she's meant to keep it on.]
[He says and pulls the car up to the window to both pay and get their food, the teen girl working the window perks up instantly when she sees how cute Alfred is and that he's British.
Alfred meanwhile doesn't seem to notice and thanks the girl, making sure to tip her before taking the bag of food and carefully pulling back onto the road.]
Do you want to eat in the car or will it keep till I get you home?
[Karen definitely notices, her eyes flicking back and forth between the girl and Alfred as a smile slowly blossoms. She can't do much about helping with the milkshakes, but she does reach around to take the bag of food from him with her good hand and holds it against her knee.]
Oh, this car is too nice to eat fast food in. It'll keep.
[There's a pause, and she can't help but laugh.]
She thought you were cuuute. And you had no idea.
[She is clearly delighted by this turn of events.]
Oh, no, aware of the effect you had, not of the bird. That would be weird.
[It's clear for a moment by the look on her face that she's picturing an actual baby chick. And then the meaning catches up with her through the haze of pain meds and she lets out a laugh, smiling over at him.]
Nice word play. Have I told you that I find word play unreasonably attractive?
Okay, to be clear, nobody likes puns. The only thing you can do with a pun is love to hate it, right? Like, you groan but you laugh.
[This clearly makes sense to Karen. Or at least to the filterless, rambling version of her brought about by the aftermath of her unfortunate evening. It might be a bit of compartmentalization as well.
Her brow furrows, and she lapses into a thoughtful silence for a moment.]
Hmm. Maybe more a combination of genuineness and cleverness? So it could be a pun or something poetic or a - really good speech or a line from a song. If it's real and it's smart, it's definitely appealing.
I can like and hate something at the same time. I'm very complex.
[Karen manages to deliver most of the sentiment seriously, though she does trail off into a laugh towards the end. Once he parks the car, she reaches over to set the bag of food down on the center console so she'll be able to navigate her way out of the seat one armed. And then he distracts her with that comment about music, turning to give him an amused look.]
Wait, what kind of music do you like? Because that could mean anything from experimental jazz to...death metal.
[He asks and motions for her to stay put, getting out of the car first and coming round to help her with her seatbelt and easing her out of the car. He grabs the bag of food with one hand and loops the other around her waist again.]
[Karen gives him a serious, contemplative look, as if assessing to determine whether or not he's a death metal fan. Finally, with a grin, she declares,] nope.
[She can only be who she is, so she's still trying (and failing) to navigate the process of getting out of the car before he appears at the door to help. She thanks him, leaning in against him as they make their way toward her building. There's a thoughtful hum as she considers British music from the 60s.]
I mean, The Beatles are a given, everyone likes The Beatles. Hmm...I could see you as a secret punk, so maybe like. The Yardbirds and The Kinks, too.
[Karen nods along, looking pleased with his choices.] Who could forget David Bowie? [She sounds almost indignant about it.
And then she idly sings the opening lines of Heroes as she fishes through her purse one handed in search of her keys. She has a surprisingly good singing voice, clear like a bell, with a tone that seems suited to jazz. Her brow furrows and she trails off, but finally finds the keys and lets them both in to her apartment. It's undeniably a relief to be home.]
[Karen apparently doesn't even realize she'd been doing it, if one were to judge by the fact that she's just immediately putting down her things and stepping out of her shoes to nudge them out of the way by the door.]
I'm going to put myself at the table, if you want to join me.
[She flips on some of the lights as she leads the way in, and then sits down in one of the chairs at the island. As they get the food unpacked, she remembers her threat/promise regarding the fries and shakes, and with a grin, she dunks on of the fries in and offers it to him to take a bite. With the flavor of the ice cream, you can't really taste the potato in the fry - it's just a contrast of hot and cold, sweet and salty.]
[The way he looks at the milkshake french fry you'd think she just offered him a giant grub on a stick or something but after looking at her carefully he sighs and takes the offered bite.]
Mnngh.
[He says and then shakes his head, swallowing it down with a grimace.]
[Karen's lips press together, the glimmer of mirth in her eyes making it clear that she's deeply entertained by what's happening.
That grimace, paired with his response, prompts another laugh, and she lets her hand rest on his forearm, giving it a squeeze.]
You totally get points for trying, though. Want to try a bite of a burger?
[She takes another fry, and gives it a liberal swirl in the milkshake before taking a bite of her own. It's clear that by contrast she definitely enjoys the flavor combo.]
[Her indigence is poorly feigned, largely because she still looks amused. And also because she's already determinedly stirring another fry into her shake with her free hand.]
Have I told you lately that you're ridiculously charming?
[Karen is always compulsively honest, but that's definitely bordering on unthinkingly honest. With a smile, she swaps her fry abominations so she can polish off one of the sliders.]
[Karen's grinning even as she makes her argument, even though she plainly thinks that it's very convincing. After a moment, she continues more seriously.]
I'm still not used to people...turning up on purpose, I guess. So it really does mean a lot. [Which is much more than she'd ever say without the painkillers.]
[Karen considers the question for a moment - it's not something she usually talks about. But she's been trying to be more open about it, in recent years. And moreover, he deserves to know what exactly she means when she says her life has been a mess for a long time.]
No, it's okay. Uh, my mother died when I was 16, and he just kind of...checked out, you know. He's been in a fog since then. My brother and I were running the diner, but it wasn't exactly turning a profit. So I, uh, started selling coke for my ex. He was a real piece of shit, but I was just an absolute asshole. Anyway, my brother got into it with my ex one night. You know, trying to look out for me. I took off with my ex, we were drinking and getting high, and when we got back to his trailer, Kevin had set it on fire.
[Karen gives him a sad little smile at that.]
My ex went after him, so I shot him in the shoulder and got my brother out of there, but I was driving and I had no business driving. I flipped the car. Kevin died and it was my fault. I don't even blame my father for kicking me out, but uh, yeah. I haven't been back home since then. I couldn't even go to his funeral.
[Alfred listens quietly but exhales long and low at the news of her brother dying so violently, his eyes growing sympathetic and concerned.]
Sounds like a bloody mess all over, I'm sorry about your brother and father. I can see why you haven't been back home at all, with so many ghosts I wouldn't either.
Thank you. I think about sneaking back sometimes, but...[she trails off, her one good shoulder lifting in a shrug. She's never seen her brother's grave. Hasn't seen her mother's since she left.] I don't think there's any way I could go without my dad hearing about it, and that would be...well, messy.
[Not to use the same word twice, but it's the most fitting. She gives him a smile, shifting her hand to pat the back of his.] Sorry. I know that's heavy.
It's okay, I asked and I appreciate you telling me.
[He appreciates her being open with him and after a small pause he decides to do the same.]
I wasn't kicked out but my father and I had a lot of angry words when I joined the service when I was sixteen, he was furious that I would throw my life away like that and make my Mum worry so much about me.
[Karen shifts in her chair a bit, leaning forward so she can rest her chin in her hand. She's listening attentively, a thoughtful furrow in her brow.]
I'm sorry, I can't imagine what that must have felt like. Joining the service is a big decision to make. What made you want to join up? And I think I remember...you said you and your dad made a peace of sorts after a while?
We did, sadly it wasn't much long after that he died.
And I joined because it was the only chance I had at something better. [He says with a little shrug.] Where I'm from you're basically only ever going to amount to working at a factory, a pub or stealing and dealing.
Oh, that's terrible timing. I'm glad you got to reconcile with him, though. I'm sure that meant a lot to him too.
[Her head tips a bit, an understanding smile turning up the corner of her mouth at his shrugged explanation.] Considering I was dealing and working at a diner, I get it. Guess rural Vermont has more in common with England than I thought.
Never would have thought Fagan Corners would have anything in common with a city the size of London.
[Once his fingers run the length of the back of her hand, she turns her hand over to echo the gesture, letting her fingertips graze along the under side of his wrist. She can't help but laugh, moving to eat another fry.]
You're going to feel like a perv when I tell you it was my family's diner. I wore jeans and a tee shirt every day. I only wore short little skirts when I was selling at parties or at the strip club.
Mm, well, considering I left when I was 19, you'd only have about a year and a half window there.
[She arches her brow pointedly, though she still looks amused.]
I'll wear jeans next time I see you and you can decide for yourself. It'll be better than this look, at least. [Which she's pretty sure can be considered 'hospital chic' at best.]
Wow, you're a prodigious flirt. [Karen sounds genuinely impressed - she's even smiling a little, and she points a fry at him.] Cheeky.
[She considers the offer as she dips the fry.] I don't mind the scrubs top, but I definitely want to get into a pair of sweats. Will this be the least sexy way you've ever helped a woman get her pants off? [The question is full of dry humor.]
You're doing wonders for my ego. It was even more bruised than I am.
[It's either a testament to his flirtation or her fair complexion that she's still getting pink in the cheeks. She finishes off the slider shes been idly eating in the lulls in their conversation.]
[There's a brief pause as Karen presses her lips together. And then she lets out a snort of laughter, as sure a sign as any that her brain is still swimming. God, Matt would get a kick out of that description.]
Well. He's one of the masked vigilantes in the city. And, uh, someone that I have worked with on more than one occasion.
God, can you imagine? No, I've uh...given him information a few times, when it hasn't been safe to give it to the authorities. And he's saved my life a few times.
[Her good shoulder lifts in a shrug, aware that it's a very brief summary.]
But our CI was working with a group that wanted to try to unmask him. They tried to use me as bait.
[The casual nature in which she explains her connection to this Daredevil seems genuine but he can already tell there's more to it than that. Things that she's not saying.]
No. I mean, I do like that what you do is important to you and that you protect the people you work for. I meant not being hypocritical about me doing the same. I get where people are coming from when they worry, but it's a nice...vote of confidence, I guess.
Oh, okay. Well I don't think you would have gotten to where you are now by not knowing how to take care of yourself.
[He says but then leans in to kiss her cheek.]
But that doesn't mean I like seeing you get hurt so if there's ever trouble and your strange devil pajama bloke isn't around I hope you'll give me a call.
[She really does. Having people in her corner means a lot to her. Her head tips, leaning in to the press of his lips against her cheek.
Though she can't help the snort of laughter that comes at 'strange devil pajama bloke,' it's quickly chased by a look of wry amusement.]
So uh, I'm not necessarily saying no. But I should probably confess that Daredevil isn't the only vigilante that I could be considered associated with, before you commit to an offer like that. Which is probably shedding some light on why I find dating difficult.
[Karen returns the long look, her expression somewhere between amused and annoyed.]
They're not all blokes. And no. It's because I have a lot of secrets I can't share, because they're not mine. And a lot of danger not just - directly in my line of work, but in my peripherals.
It's not about you being bothered, specifically, so much as...I don't know, full honesty, I guess? There's a difference between knowing I have a weird life and then knowing it's "associates with multiple vigilantes" weird.
Well if it makes you feel better sometimes my life is on a similar level of weird, I don't associate with vigilantes but I have dealt with shadowy political parties and Satanists before.
[Karen's eyebrows arch, and she repeats incredulously,] Satanists?
[There's a beat, and then she lets out another quick laugh.] Sounds like we could give each other some serious competition in a 'who's had a weirder week' contest.
[Karen smiles at the way he joins her in laughter, though his question clearly takes her by surprise. She hasn't really considered it from that angle before. It's been a long time since she's met someone that stands a chance of understanding what her life is like. She'll still worry about getting him hurt with her bullshit, because she can only be who she is, but still. Being able to get it is a nice change of pace.]
You know, it kind of is. I'm glad I met you.
[She watches him for a quiet moment before speaking again.] How about I cook you dinner at the end of the week? Your place or mine.
Oh, it won't be fully healed, but I'll be functional by the end of the week. This thing isn't going to last longer than 24 hours.
[Karen makes a gesture to indicate the sling that's holding her arm in place so she won't move that shoulder around. She is, if nothing else, devastatingly self aware.]
[Karen's face seems to be saying who, me? as he studies her. It's not a very convincing impression of someone that absolutely isn't planning to start cooking early. She still smiles when he agrees to the deal.]
Oh yeah? I mean, I wouldn't be offended by that. I'm a good cook but there's always things that are outside someone's skill set. I still want to know what it is.
[He tilts his head down slightly, raising his brows and looking up into her eyes with his light grey ones. His lips curving slightly into a subtle pout.]
[No, definitely not tonight. Not with the way her thoughts are getting away from her, loosening her tongue in a way that's more compulsive than normal. Or with the way the events of the night feel so distant that she can't help but laugh at every little thing.
Still, she enjoys the way his head tilts towards her hand, smiling as she lets her thumb stroke along his cheek again.]
I'm obviously not up for it tonight, but you can still stay over if you want.
I'll stay if you want me to but also understand if you prefer to be on your own.
[He fully understands how sometimes it's nice to have someone around to help and give comfort when you're in pain and other times you want to be free to be a mess on your own.]
[Karen considers it. Truth be told, if her emotional fortitude wasn't currently being swaddled by painkillers, she probably would insist on being alone. She likes to freak out about the state of her life in private. But she also recognizes that he's one of the few people she knows that's likely to get it. And besides - ]
No, you can stay. I like having you around.
[Not even to give comfort, necessarily, considering she's not joking about the fact that the sling is very likely going to come off in the morning. He's good company.]
[When the food is finished he tidies up while Karen brushes her teeth with her good arm, he joins her after in the bedroom to help her get changed into a night shirt.]
[Brushing her teeth is slow going, but she manages it. It's admittedly a relief to be on the cusp of being able to lay down and just sleep for a while.
She smiles at his question, a considering look on her face that prompts a laugh as she mulls over her options.]
You know, I don't mind leaving the scrubs top from the hospital on. The nurse helped me get my bra off for the x ray. I would love to swap these pants for sweats, though.
[He says and moves in to help her with her pants, unzipping them and then pushing them down around her hips. He then motions for her to sit on the edge of her bed so he can pull them off her long legs. His movements aren't sensual but are still soft and warm.]
[Karen can't help but smile to herself as she watches him. It means a lot to her, when people show up for her like this.]
Thank you. I could get them, you know. Uh, third drawer down in the dresser. There's a navy blue pair. The waist band is really stretchy, which I think is ideal for tonight.
[Even so, she grins as she lets him help her navigate the pants on, standing up so she can use her one good arm to help tug the waist band up over her hips. Since she's standing, and because she can only be who she is, she impulsive wraps her arm around him in a hug.]
See, this is what the puppy face actually got you. I'm letting you help me into bed without complaining.
[Make no mistake, if she had insisted on being treated at the hospital without painkillers, she would be just as insistent right now that she could navigate her way into bed on her own. As it is, she just gives him an amused look as she carefully climbs in and stretches out on her back, wriggling down a bit to try to get into a comfortable position.
Her nose scrunches. Oh yeah. The sling is absolutely not going to last more than one night.]
[Apparently she still has some fight in her, as she promptly uses one arm to excavate herself from that very neat tuck. Her sheet is still draped over her, just more loosely. The look she gives him is aiming for serious, but she's clearly also just on the cusp of laughing.]
You cannot tuck me in and read to me. I don't have enough lingerie to counteract how devastatingly unsexy that would be. How about you get in bed and tell me about your day instead?
[Karen pats the other side of the bed as she answers.]
Reading your favorite book to me? Very sexy. Tucking me in? Sweet. Tucking me in and reading me a story while I'm incapacitated? There's no coming back from that.
[This is the foolproof logic of someone riding the waves of pain killers to unconsciousness.]
[Though she has concerns about laying even on her good shoulder with the other one in a sling, she does turn her head so she can look over at him. And then smiles at the way he's got his head propped up.]
Oh, I definitely want to hear about that. Any time you mention his name, I know it's going to be good.
Good as in caused a lot of trouble, as he often does. All right, this was back when we were still in training together and one night Daveboy comes creeping over to my bunk and already I could tell he's got some kind of dumb idea...
[It was a dumb idea all right but it does make for a good story and furthermore Alfred is actually a very good storyteller, his tone of voice is rich and soothing and he fleshes out the story with lots of fun details that allow Karen to fully imagine two young boys creeping away from their army training and into London for some fun. It all went tits up of course but by the time Alfred gets to that part she is fast asleep, her head tilted towards him as if she is still listening.]
[ It's not fair to ask this of Alfred, not after he fired him, but at the crossroads of the man he needs to become and the one he's trying to leave behind, it's hard to be alone. Hence the party. Hence Alfred. Bruce breathes easier at the sight of him, even as he pulls up to the curb in something that looks like it could have been abandoned on the side of the road.
The doorman wrinkles his nose at the sight as Bruce steps out into the night air. He doesn't expect Alfred to get out and open the door for him so Bruce helps himself to the passenger seat, gusting out a sigh as he settles into the beatup interior, briefly unable to look at Alfred as the familiar tangle of shame and sentiment knots his stomach. ]
Thank you, Alfred. Were you...Did I interrupt anything?
[The sneer of the doorman is something Alfred is used to, he grew up in East London and as a young man he had constantly been treated like he was trash.]
No, I was just doing some mending.
[He says as he pulls the car out of the drive and back into the road.]
[ It takes longer than Bruce is proud of as he's settling in to notice the derision on the doorman's face and when he catches it, he stares the man down until he's looking away. He's mid-buckling when Alfred steers them from the building. ]
Oh. [ The air hangs heavy with the unspoken desire to ask questions, but he's still learning to navigate this new dynamic of theirs. After a moment, Bruce's gaze flits from his folded hands to Alfred. ]
Are you expecting it to be a late night?
[ There's an offer on the tip of his tongue, habit from dictating their schedule when Alfred had been apart of his life, but he waits instead. ]
[ It takes effort not to let the guilt show across his expression; the way Bruce feels directly responsible for said holes and the fact that Alfred is in a position where mending is preferable to buying new socks. He steels himself with a breath as nerves twist him up. ]
No, I...I was going to ask if maybe you wanted to get tea somewhere. You mentioned the diner, Ruth's, and I thought maybe I could buy you a cup.
[ He doesn't mention that he tried to buy the diner so he could rename it. Maybe it's for the best. Calling it Tiffany's might have been salt in the wound. ]
[ Bruce doesn't just internally squirm, he physically squirms as Alfred lets the offer hang in the air. Maybe he misread Alfred's willingness to be around him. Maybe it only extends just far enough to know he's safe and nothing else. Maybe he should have just asked to be dropped off at the Manor. Maybe— ]
It does? [ He catches himself and inadvertently smiles with the relief. ] It does. I haven't had a good cup in...
[ Bruce falls quiet. They both know when the last time would have been because Alfred would have been the one making it. Instead he clears his throat and looks out the window. ]
[ There's an art to having tea that Bruce knows isn't commonly practiced outside of the manor. There's not likely to be any warming of their tea cups with hot water before it's poured from a teapot. Likely, they're in for expired teabags and water boiled from the same system they use for their coffee.
But that's okay. It's not the tea he's interested in as much as it's the ritual of simply sitting down with Alfred. His brows arch, interest visibly piqued, at the mention of milkshakes however. ]
Do they?
[ He smiles in spite of himself, daring to add: ] Then maybe a milkshake then. What flavors have you tried?
[ Bruce is sure the selection is limited, but he's hungry for any bit of information about Alfred's new life that he can get and this seems a harmless enough place to start. ]
Strawberry sounds nice. Unless that's too exotic for you.
[ The teasing is subtle, harkening to a time when they were still feeling out their dynamic after his parents' passing. Bruce feels like he's been thrown right back to the beginning except this time Alfred isn't obligated to attend him. Or humor him. ]
[ That faint smile is Bruce's whole world for a moment. His own mirrors it unconsciously, delighted to feel some small sense of normalcy, and he finds himself breathing a little easier as they roll to a stop.
The diner is small and unassuming, but Bruce had known that before they'd even arrived. He's seen the photos and knows the square footage, but doesn't trouble himself with the idea that the owner might be in, instead pretending to take it in for the first time as he climbs slowly out of the car. ]
Looks cozy.
[ Cozier than the neighborhood it's in but Bruce knows better than to look down on any corner in Gotham. If there's poverty or crime, then he's partially responsible for not getting the right money in the right people's hands to help. ]
Come here often?
[ From anyone else it might sound like a line, but there's a genuine curiosity in Bruce as he waits for Alfred to walk alongside him. ]
[Which means not as often now that Tiffany is gone, she was the one who was always kind and friendly to Alfred. Their brief friendship meant a lot to him.
He waves hello to the other girls behind the counter and leads Bruce over to a table near the window. One of the other waitresses, Carrie, comes over with menus.]
Here you go, Alfred.
Cheers, Carrie.
[The woman is in her thirties and she gives Bruce a little glance.]
[ There's a gentle nod of understanding at that. Bruce doesn't press for more than what's already been shared about Alfred's late friend and the tragedy of her death. He knows firsthand how hard familiar spaces can be when the people you shared them with are gone.
There's a reason Bruce isn't in the manor, after all.
The suit jacket he's in makes him standout as an easy mark but there's something in the small scattering of patrons that tells Bruce he'll be fine. It's the way they regard Alfred. Respect and something akin to admiration in their eyes. Even Carrie, with all her familiarity, treats Alfred like he's more than just a regular. ]
Oh. No, I'm his—
[ Bruce starts then stops, momentarily unsure what to say. He's Alfred's. Full stop. Always has been because the lines were always blurry until Bruce drew them in the sand in an effort to excise the man from his life to better isolate himself in his misery and grief. Now... ]
His friend.
[ Carrie looks at him dubiously but Bruce smiles in an attempt to disarm her and whatever skepticism she might be working through. ]
Seems he has a lot of them here.
[ That does the trick and Carrie brightens, all too happy to tell the tale of their local hero. ]
That's because your friend ran into a burning building just next door. Helped get everyone out. We're proud to have him.
I get that. I feel the same.
[ The ache of not having Alfred anymore forces Bruce to keep the conversation moving. Mostly because he doesn't want to run the risk of hearing Alfred correct him in front of an audience. ]
He says you have excellent milkshakes. Could we trouble you for a strawberry one?
Of course, doll. Alfred? Anything else while I give you two a second to look over the menu?
['He's my son.' Those are the words that are so close to coming out but Alfred stops them just in time, allowing Bruce to correct Carrie and label whatever it is they are now.
Friends.
It's better than what Bruce called him when he demanded he leave the manor but it still hurts him a little to be called anything other than the boy's family.]
I'll have a cup of tea, please and thank you.
[He says and Carrie tips him a wink and heads off to get their drinks, once she is gone Alfred clears his throat and adjusts the cutlery on the table. Straightening it out.]
She's exaggerating, by the way. It wasn't just me who went into the building to help.
Oh God, Alfred, let it go. You're not a bad guy, I know you. I thought I was calling you out on breaking her heart, never on being a mean spirited dick.
Kind of hard to when there's a grain of truth to it, hanging around me tends to get people hurt. ... I think I just threw up a little at the idea of me and Sykes together.
[yeah....buddies. Who check each other out and accidentally slip up and say they care about one another when they're upset....] You're good at cheering a bloke up, you know that?
Hey, in my defense, I've been in enough meetings and posh events to be able to tell between that accent and yours. Can I name them and identify the nuances between all the other accents your brits have? No way. But that I can tell.
You were ironing? Ok. Going somewhere special later?
I wasn't afraid! It's just... It was my dad'd place and, I don't know, it felt more like myself. I work hard, I don't need anyone buying my grades or a palce in a championship.
No, I know. It's just... You know what it feels like when you don't think you fully belong in a place? Or with some people? But the whole world is set on reminding you that you do.
[Karen "helpfully" sends him a photo - the shot is mostly the mounds of suds in her bathtub, with the tray propped up along side the tub. Her bare knee is visible through the suds, and there's a couple of candles on the tray along side her blue gatorum cocktail.]
[Karen is clearly not above being a bit of a tease, considering she sends another picture. This time, her legs are visible to about the mid-thigh, crossed at the ankle with her heels balanced lightly on the tub faucet.]
[A moment later Karen gets a text photo of him sitting shirtless at his kitchen table, gun parts spread out on it with a cup of tea nearby. He feels a little silly sending it but hopefully she likes it.]
[Karen smiles fondly when she sees the picture he sends back. The combination of the tea and the gun parts does seem very him. And it's not like it's a chore to look at him shirtless.]
Now that's a hell of a compliment. If you didn't have to be up at 6 AM tomorrow, I'd invite you over to help me scrub those hard to reach areas. If it helps, I'm wearing a goopy green face mask. It wouldn't have been alluring from the other angle. What's getting you up so early?
[She sends a selfie, somehow managing to convey a dubious look despite the green goop all over her face. Her hair is piled up on top of her head, and she's angled the shot to just be from her shoulders and above.]
Have I told you that your ability to find something flirty to say is really charming? Especially considering you have evidence that I turned into a slime monster.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
for @sickofroses (tfln continued)
I'm not sure you'd want to live vicariously through me, Miss. I don't exactly get out all that often but when I do I like a few pints at a good pub and a long walk home under the stars.
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And long enough to tire me out and work through the drinks I've had.
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I'm the legal guardian of a young man and it wouldn't do for him to see me in such a state.
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I've known him since he was a baby so he's become something of a son to me.
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Quite a bit of a different situation than mine where I grew up in east London and was a nobody.
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[ Given she has her own guardian who worked/works for her parents, wild guess on her part. ]
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Or maybe that's just what he wants me to think... I should ask his wife.
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for @minded (tfln continued)
All right I'm on my way.
I'll knock the intruder out and then you can explain everything.
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[ just a mad in tweed sweating next to a heater, nothing weird about this at all. ]
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Well?
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[ behold: a sweaty tiny man, holding onto a lever by a large, vibrating, metal thing, other hand to hip. he was completely serious about not stepping away from the thing. ]
See, I was trying to walk back what I'd done wrong, and then I sensed that something - someone - was afoot above, and that left me in quite the bind, as you can see. [ charles indicates, with a flourish, and the groaning thing beside him. ] You wouldn't happen to know what to do with this, do you?
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Looks like you've overloaded and overheated it, just hold onto that lever while I take a look.
[He instructs and hunkers down to undo the lower grate system and peer inside, muttering softly to himself before reaching inside. He hisses in pain for a second as he turns a short valve and steam hits his arm but soon the groaning starts to lessen.]
All right, you should be able to let go now.
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were he not a telepath with an obscene amount of money at his disposal, he likely would be dead from a stupendously ridiculous misunderstanding.
he lets go, and very carefully, hooting in triumph when alfred succeeds where he has failed in fixing things. ]
You are a miracle worker, my good sir, this is wonderful! Thank you, Mister Pennyworth, and on such short notice—
Ah, is the gentleman upstairs alive?
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You're very welcome sir, but perhaps next time you should just give your maintenance man a call before trying to fix it yourself.
And yes, of course he is.
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[ he even sounds aghast, like the thought of calling the man for a few hours' work never crossed his mind. it hasn't; holidays are meant to be savoured, uninterrupted. ]
And I think we did very well for ourselves, have we not, Mister Pennyworth? The ah, interloping person aside. Cheers to us!
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[He repeats and grabs a near by rag to wipe his hands on, he then inspects his arm where the steam hit and motions that they can leave.]
I'm going to suggest we call the police to deal with the intruder and then perhaps we can have some tea.
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[ charles beckons for alfred to walk in step with him, taking visual stock of him and his steam-related injury. ]
You'll let me look at that first, at least? I am a doctor, after all.
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[Alfred flexes his hand a little.]
It's fine for now, I've been hurt a lot worse.
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And oh, no. Having been hurt worse before does not mean you're hurt any less. Let me see?
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[He sighs and shows Charles the burn, it isn't bad, just red and in need of some cool water.]
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[ optimism in endless amounts, truly. ]
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for @batprince (tfln continued)
I'd be happy to pass along the message, as well as any notes you might have about improvements you want done on it.
[He says as he sets down the tray, moving behind Bruce to help carefully remove the jacket once he has it unzipped.]
Where does it hurt the most?
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[ There's a small tear in the sleeve that sees itself through to the skin of Bruce's arm, a messy graze that could have been much worse. He doesn't comment on the bruises but grimaces as he reaches to touch his chest. ]
I might have cracked something. The pain is worse on my right.
[ They're beyond him trying to hide when things are bad, but the instinct is still there especially when he knows he's made Alfred worry. ]
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Take a breath.
[He instructs and after Bruce does he nods.]
Not cracked, just badly bruised. You'll have to take a few days off to let it heal.
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[ He goes quiet again as he lets Alfred work, only occasionally bracing himself with a breath through his teeth whenever the pain feels especially bad. ]
Alfred. [ Bruce pauses, unsure he wants to ask because he's worried the answer will have happened in his employ. The potential guilt loses out to his curiosity. ] Have you ever broken anything?
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Course I have.
I've been in my share of fights, not to mention a war.
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Which break was the worst? [ He chances a glance up while offering his arm to be cleaned and bandaged, letting Alfred know with that brief look that he's invested in the story. ]
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That would be when I had both my collarbones broken, had to have metal plates put in them while they healed and then removed later on.
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[ Bruce's face pinches into something that takes a moment to smooth away. It is a practiced neutrality that is getting more and more brittle the longer the guilt in him festers. This newest revelation adds to that. He's seen Alfred in hospital gowns, too often because of him, but he'd never looked too deeply for evidence of his former life. He looks for it now, a quiet assessment, a different language he's learning to speak but won't let Alfred learn the cipher to. ]
How did it happen?
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[Which seems like a life time ago now but when Bruce asks about what happened he nods and begins the tale, after all he's always been good at telling Bruce stories.]
This was back in London after I got out of the army and was working as the doorman and security for a nightclub.
It was one of those nights where you just knew something was off, that there was going to be trouble in one way or another.
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[ The expanse of his back is given for Alfred to oversee. He's pretty sure it's just bruising but it doesn't hurt (well, technically it does) to allow him a better look. ] So how did it find you?
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It found me by way of a very large and very inebriated chap who decided that since his pick up lines weren't working on the dancing girls that he would literally 'pick them up'.
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That was rather brutish of him. There was a fight, I take it?
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[He's a gentleman after all and a gentleman always tries to de-escalate a situation before violence.]
So first I went up to him and told him that the girls had a show to do and unless he wanted to put on a glittery bra and join them in a number he'd have to stop mucking about.
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[ It's a gentle tease, an attempt to find their rhythm again. This time, despite his efforts and his injuries, Bruce laughs and the sharp jolt of pain that goes through his chest has him clutching at it with a sharp hiss, the bright noise quickly aborted behind grit teeth. ]
I take it he didn't join the chorus line. [ He tries to play off the pain, shaking his head to preempt any concern Alfred might show. Instead, Bruce steadies himself with a hand on the back of the chair before stealing a look over his shoulder at Alfred. ] Don't tell me he put you over his shoulder instead...
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Not quite, he actually picked me up over his head and threw me against the bar. I landed at a bad angle and cracked both collarbones.
[A small pause as he finishes bandaging up Bruce's back.]
Didn't stop me from dealing with him though and after he was finally out for the count I looked down and saw these two great bloody big lumps where my bones were trying to push through my skin.
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[ And then, glancing over his shoulder asks. ] Or were you stubborn about bed rest even then?
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[He chuckles softly.]
I was, lucky for me I had a very good nurse at the time. One of the dancing girls.
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[ He smiles blithely, small but there before expelling a ragged breath that shores back up the professional distance he has been trying to erect between them. ]
Was that the last of it then? [ He nods at the tray Alfred has brought back up and while he knows there's no forgetting the needle there, he's half hoping Alfred has. ]
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Almost.
[He says and picks up the needle.]
Just a quick shot to the rump and then we'll be done, you can spend the rest of your day recovering and resting.
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Most of the time he thinks he has a hand on all the confusing emotions that war within him but then there are times like these when he struggles with any kind of vulnerability despite knowing Alfred is the one person deserving of it. ]
Then let's get this over with.
[ He nods, mostly for himself, then takes a beat to cradle his newly bandaged ribs with a hand cupped just under where they hurt the most. Any bracing breaths will just worsen the pain so he stills the air in his chest as he goes about undoing his belt so he can push the waistband of both his pants and underwear down just enough to expose a thin strip of skin below his back. Modesty its own kind of armor he's learned to wear, even around Alfred who Bruce pointedly avoids looking at. ]
I wouldn't say no to pancakes, [ He suggests to take his mind off of the injection. ]
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Pancakes it is then.
Regular or something a bit sweeter? Chocolate chip perhaps?
[After all, Bruce does deserve a little treat after having endured that.]
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[ He keeps the eagerness out of his voice, but the comfort of something warm and sweet helps soften the prickly edges he's trying to keep up. ] I'll meet you downstairs.
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Very well, Master Bruce.
for @hawk_shot (tfln continued)
And I thought I was ready to be a soldier, trust me, no one is ever fully ready for that.
How do you feel about that?
ooc: Thank you for moving us, hun! <3
I feel like I should run and ghost him.
But then I'm always checking my phone to see if he texted.
you're welcome :)
I don't think ghosting him would be fair.
💜
No. Neither do I.
But how do you stop things when all you want is to talk to them?
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It caused quite a bit of tension between us though.
I guess you just remind yourself of all the reasons why you think it's not a good idea to see one another.
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Christmas is gonna be fuuuuun.
Yeah, much easier to do in theory.
He is like a huge red flag but then he is sweet and thoughtful and curious and cute and supportive and a good cook.
... I'm doing the opposite, Alfred.
I mean. Mr Pennyworth.
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A good cook is hard to find...
Alfred is fine, Miss Bishop. And you're right, would you prefer if I didn't ask questions about him?
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UGH you're not helping.
Then it's Kate, Alfie.
And no, that's cool. It's nice having someone kinda objective to talk about it.
Most my friends just tell me to jump him.
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Apologies.
Alfred is fine then, Kate.
Even after you've said there are red flags? Those aren't very good friends.
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It's ok. I'm really grateful you're putting up with me.
I miiight not have given them all the details.
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I wouldn't call it that.
Why not?
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What would you call it?
Because its complicated.
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And of course not, even the idea of that is very wrong for many reasons.
A breath of fresh air?
How come? They're your friends aren't they?
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You're probably right.
They are.
I just find it complicated to talk about in details.
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Because you don't like people knowing that much about you?
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Because he did something that was horrible but I don't think it was his fault.
Not... Fully.
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Well that sounds rather ominous.
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It's all so seriously complicated.
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Romance usually is.
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You've ever had a relationship like this one?
When you don't really know what to do?
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I have.
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It's still pretty bad.
How did it turn out?
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Sadly she was killed before we could find out.
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And when your boss is your mom.
... shit, Alfred.
I'm so sorry.
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Thank you.
Her name was Esme, she was a lovely woman but there were times that neither of us knew what we were doing together. Didn't stop us from loving one another though.
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At least that's pretty common, isn't it? Feeling like you don't know what you are doing.
Did she have an accident?
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It's hard to have all the answers, especially when you're young.
No. She was murdered.
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Does it get better as you grow older?
Shit.
That's horrible. I'm so, so very sorry.
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A tiny bit.
So am I, I was the reason she was killed.
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I'll get you a badge with it for Christmas.
Well, that's something to look forward to, at least.
Someone was targeting you??
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More like someone wanted to hurt me so they killed her.
It was my old army commander.
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And family friend.
Was that dipshit arrested??
It's so insane that people even think of doing something like that!!
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No.
He was the son of a very influential Lord who called in a favor, so the murder was covered up.
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I can't believe how some people can just get away with some things. And the world keeps going.
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Oh he didn't exactly get away with it.
for @theotherrobin (tfln continued)
You'd want to come to and do the grocery shopping with me? Really?
lol thanks, i was sooooo lazyyyy xD
No worries, I would have done it sooner but I was in bed on my phone XD
it's been so freakin hot that i've basically just been on my phone too. too hot for laptops D:
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Of course not, that's what I'm around for.
I don't have one ;_________;
Anyway, even if I didn't, I'd be curious. Surprised he's never been curious.
[rich people though, huh. Jason will never fully understand.]
Noooooo 😭
But you're very welcome to join me.
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I suppose you're right.
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Maybe enchiladas? Ever make those?
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Fuck yeah we are. Let's do this.
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[About a week later, after he's served both Bruce and Jason breakfast and he's tidied up he heads up to Jason's room. Knocking on the door gently.]
Master Jason? I was planning on going to the shops today, would you still care to join me?
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Hey Alfred... uh. Sure. Did you ask Bruce, though?
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[and for once, Jason doesn't mind that Bruce is gonna be in meetings all day. usually it bums him out cause he's left to his own devices, but today he's got something planned with Alfred so it's all good.]
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[The evening of course is another story but Alfred is pleased to have some company for the day.]
Will you be ready to go in about half an hour?
for @bellylanding (tfln continued)
One doesn't always have to be serious partners for there to be comfort. You could just be close and care about one another, doesn't mean you're going to be buying property together or anything.
hell yea i very much WOULD like to continue
We're already friends. Shouldn't that be comfort enough without getting weird?
Yaaay! I don't get to bust out young Alfred very often :D
You think hand holding is really that weird? There's a lot of other things he could have asked you to do that I think are weirder.
i'm loving him tbh
It's intimate.
aww yay <3
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for @revmeup (tfln drinks continued)
Apologies, Harley.
[He says and clears his throat a little.]
Now, what type of drink do you prefer? You look a bit like a lady who likes something bubbly.
for@farcry (tfln continued)
Very well, sir. I shall make some calls.
It's coming up so with your current slow speed, unless you decide to go even slower, you should reach it in 20 mins.
<3 ty
Slow speed? Alfred. Not all of us used to work for the MI5 okay?
But fine, I'll run faster.
you're welcome :)
I thought you were in better shape than this, you been falling behind on your training?
[Dick will see headlights approaching his location.]
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[ Dick approaches the car with a good amount of suspicion to make sure it’s the car Alfred sent. ]
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[When he approaches the car it slows down, the back door opening to reveal a small screen that carries the wayne logo so Dick knows it was sent by Alfred.]
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[ he dives into the car when he deems it legitimate enough, sighing as he shuts the back door and splays in the back seat, catching his breath. he searches out the medkit Alfred mentioned and pops a few pain killers dry. ]
Thanks, A. I appreciate it.
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I've told the driver to bring you to Wayne manor, I figured you could use a check up and a good meal.
for @doesntsing (tfln continued)
Am I also allowed to watch your figure?
oh, thank you.
All you wanna do is watch?
you're very welcome <3
To start with, sure.
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Unless you've got other ideas?
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[ She was expecting something much dirtier. ]
Usually you hold someone pretty close when you do that.
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[Don't worry Midge, he'll get there.]
Of course, that's the best part of a slow dance.
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I guess you’d have to pull me in pretty close, maybe even right up against you, huh?
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Truth be told, I wouldn’t have minded if you’d talked dirty to me though.
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How dirty?
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Sides, there's some words I use that even you laid back Americans seem to consider too dirty.
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Like cunt?
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Yes, that and twat.
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But all right.
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I'm already on my way over.
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Uh.
Alright. You lucked out. I’m actually alone tonight.
Guess now you can tell me to my face.
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Not that it would have stopped me, I just might have had to apologize later to your parents.
Show and tell.
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I guess I’ll see you soon.
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[If she wasn't so flustered she might wonder how he knows exactly where she lives but then again, maybe not. She did give him some details and he is a clever bloke....
Either way, about 20 mins later there's a knock on her front door.]
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Despite the fact that she's expecting him, Midge jumps when he knocks on the door. After checking through the peephole to make sure that it's him, she opens the door. ]
Hey...
[ She lets him in. Midge is wearing her robe, but her hair is still down. Thankfully, their conversation had started before she put her hair in curlers.
They look at each other for a moment, Midge stunned into silence for one of the few times in her life. ]
You're here.
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Indeed I am.
[Despite her being in a robe his eyes stay on hers as he enters her home.]
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Can I get you a drink?
[ Midge laughs suddenly, a light and airy sound. ]
I can’t believe you actually came here to say dirty things to my face.
[ She has to admit, that’s ballsy, and the confidence is pretty hot. ]
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And it seemed the best course of action, messaging is good and all but it's hard to pick up on tone sometimes.
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Oh, you come bearing gifts? We have glasses in the living room.
[ Midge leads the way through the hall to their comfortable living room. The apartment gives off an air of money, but isn’t ostentatious. She retrieves two glasses from the bar cart and placed them on the coffee table before untying the bow and opening the bottle of whiskey.
Is it unladylike to have a drink with a gentleman when you’re in your nightgown and robe? Fortunately, Alfred is the only one here to see her.
She pours a little whiskey in each glass and hands him one of them before joining him on the couch. She takes a sip. ]
Better than a coconut Girl Scout cookie rum cocktail.
[ Alfred doesn’t seem to be in any hurry to cut to the chase of his visit, and Midge wonders if that’s supposed to heighten her anticipation of it. ]
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Were you ever a Girl Scout? [He asks after sitting down and taking the offered drink, sipping at it as he watches her. Admiring the way she moves and sits close to him.]
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What did you want to tell me, Alfred?
[ Yeah, she’s impatient. He came all the way over here to tell her and show her something, so he must be serious about it. This isn’t a date. If he’s trying to seduce her, then she’s ready for it. ]
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Bit impatient, aren't you?
[He's teasing because he's good at it and because he's pretty sure she likes it.]
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I’m in my nightgown. I was about to put my curlers in when you said you were going to come over here and not only tell me something, but show me.
[ He’s right though. She likes the teasing. Midge takes another sip of the whiskey. He picked a good one. ]
Forgive me if I’m just a little impatient. [ Her tone is curious. ]
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But did you really want me to just come up on your doorstop, push you inside and against a wall and put my hands all over you while I kiss you so hard you won't be able to catch your breath?
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That doesn’t seem very gentlemanly of you. I can tell that you like to woo.
But I’m sure you’d rather have pushed me against a wall.
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[His lips twist into a little smirk.]
Maybe. Or maybe I'd rather sit here and admire you a bit before I take you on the floor.
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[ She sips her drink, then her eyes drift to the living room floor. ]
That seems uncomfortable when we have other options, like this couch or my bed.
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[ Unlikely, but she needs something to counter his absolutely true accusations that she’s being impatient. ]
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Maybe I don't need a bedroom.
Maybe I prefer the idea of you stretched out on this sofa, your robe split open and my face between your thighs.
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Said robe is starting to feel a little warm now that Alfred is being more specific. She pulls idly at the collar. ]
You want me to tug at your hair while you do that?
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[A small pause as he smiles at her.]
The first time, of course.
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[ She sips her whiskey. ]
You’re very confident. I hope you can back it up. Making a woman come isn’t the easiest thing in the world.
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[He responds honestly and sips his drink as well.]
It is so long as one is willing to put in the effort and listen.
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You wouldn’t want me to… wank you off? Is that what the English say? Or shag you?
Is there an English slang term for a blow job?
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Not specifically no, although I guess sometimes it's referred to as a 'blowie'. And all those can wait till you're satisfied.
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[ Don’t think that she hasn’t noticed him inching ever so slowly closer to her. He’s like a tiger and she’s the woodland creature that is about to be happily devoured. ]
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I learned how to be extremely patient when I was in the service.
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[ He’s close enough now that she can extend her slippered foot and run it up one of his calves. ]
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May I inquire as to how long is 'a while'?
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If we’re talking about that specific act, much longer.
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Bloody hell, you serious? Is there something wrong with the men in this city?
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Maybe it’s me. Maybe I haven’t found anybody that I want to be intimate with lately.
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We wouldn’t be sitting on my couch right now if I hadn’t.
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Midge has never been so glad that her parents are out of town and her kids are with her ex-husband. ]
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Wordlessly, she reaches down and unties the belt to her robe, shrugging it down off of her shoulders and leaving her in a semi-sheer nightgown. ]
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You're lovely. [He says softly as his hands slowly slip inside the robe to wrap around her waist and pull her closer.]
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I’ll bet you say that to all the girls.
[ Midge wouldn’t have necessarily predicted that they would have ended up here when they first met, but Alfred has a charm and confidence about himself that are irresistible. She wraps her arms around his neck as he pulls her closer. ]
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[He admits honestly before tilting his head to place a few soft kisses against her neck.]
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[ Midge closes her eyes as he kisses her neck. She removes the robe from where it’s gathered around her body and drapes it over the couch. He’s pulled her into his lap by now, the hem of her nightgown riding up to her thigh. She discreetly pulls it down. ]
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And no one who has caught my attention like you have.
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[ She doesn’t make it a habit to sleep with men who are attached, however tenuously, to other women. ]
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[He says with a grin and trails his fingers down to the hemline of her nightgown.]
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Good. This bird doesn’t like to share with other birds.
[ Her pulse quickens as his fingers brush over the hem of her nightgown. ]
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Not all the time. But if I have your attention, I want it to be on me alone.
[ While not a snob, Midge is a princess and likes to be treated as such. She’s high-maintenance. ]
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[And considering he's a gentleman that actually means something and he kisses his way back to her lips, the hand on her leg moving up and inch. Pushing the hem of her nightgown up with it.]
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Alfred is going agonizingly slow, and Midge closes her eyes, trying to be patient. Her breathing and pulse quicken the closer he gets to exposing her. ]
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You're trying to torture me, aren't you, Alfred?
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[He says and leans in to brush his lips against hers in a whisper of a kiss as his hand moves up half an inch.]
Tease on the other hand, yes. Because I can hear how much you're enjoying it.
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[ She is enjoying it. Her heart rate is up, her breathing has increased, her pupils have widened and her nipples are very obviously hard underneath her night gown. Midge might not be able to speed him up, but she’s not going to sit here and do nothing. Grabbing on to his jaw with both hands, Midge pulls him in for a more passionate kiss, pressing her lips hard to his before opening them against his mouth. Her tongue slips into his mouth, seeking his. ]
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She keeps giving his mouth little kisses as her hands move down his chest, feeling the muscles there. Her kisses move up his jaw until she can whisper in his ear. ]
Say something dirty to me in that accent of yours.
[ Cockney has never been on her list of sexy accents and yet here they are. That accent is exactly why he’s doing so well with women over here. ]
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When Midge requests he talk dirty he has to chuckle, it's not the first time an American bird has found his accent exciting and he presses his thumb firmly against her clit and whispers back.]
I'm going to make your pussy get nice and wet before I slip a finger inside you.
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A little gasp leaves her lips, reacting to both his thumb against her clit and the words he says. Her heart starts to beat a little faster. ]
I guess you'd better take my panties off then.
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[He purrs softly as his thumb starts to rub her clit in firm circles.]
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You're going to do this your way, aren't you?
[ It's not like Midge to relinquish control, but it seems like that's what Alfred wants her to do. Honestly? It's kind of hot. She's so used to telling men what to do that's it's nice to maybe finally get one who knows what to do without having to be told. He found her clit pretty easily after all.
Speaking of, the way he's touching her draws a moan from her, and a gentle rocking of her hips back against his hand. ]
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[He reminds her with a quick, sweet kiss.]
It's about making you come as many times as I can, tonight.
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[ Her eyes flutter closed as she feels her pleasure start to rise steadily. Midge digs a hand in his hair. ]
Oh God... please don't stop.
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[He says with a smile and keeps the pressure on her clit, rubbing and circling as he kisses down her throat.]
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[ She whispers his name like a prayer as she feels her pleasure peak. Midge inhales sharply and then softly moans out her satisfaction as the waves of her orgasm wash over her. It's an appetizer, a teaser compared to what she's sure he can do if she were naked or if he used his mouth.
Sure enough, her panties are soaked now. ]
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Yes, luv?
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[ Her voice is breathless, her chest rising and falling as she comes down from her orgasm. Midge's fingers thread through his hair again, tugging at it lightly as he kisses her skin. ]
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[He kisses her fluttering chest as his hand moves away from her clit and up to her panty line, hooking a finger into the elastic so he can slide it down and off her.]
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I like it when a man knows what he's doing.
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[He counters after returning the kiss.]
I've never understood being coy about it, especially not when you birds can have so many.
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[ She could get into a discussion of why she thinks that is, but now isn’t really the time for philosophical discussion. Midge gathers the material of her nightgown around her hips, giving him an unobstructed view of the lower half of her body. ]
Do you find American women to be more or less bold than English women?
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Well it depends on the woman but in general, more so. Must be all that freedom of speech you have over here.
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There’s no freedom of speech in Britain?
We’re bold, but we’re also prude, since we were founded by Puritans. Then again, the Puritans came from your country.
Not my ancestors though.
[ She’s a Russian Jew. No Puritanism to be found here. ]
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[He's rambling as he shifts his body down to kiss her nipples through the silky nightgown.]
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Well, this doesn’t seem very polite. Not that you should stop doing it.
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[He counters and goes back to mouthing at her nipples, his hands moving up to help push the straps of her nightgown down.]
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[ Midge lets him push the straps of her nightgown down her shoulders and push the fabric away. Her breasts are relatively big for her frame, perky and round, with perfect pink nipples that happen to be hardened to stiff peaks at the moment. ]
You sure you’re not feeling too overdressed?
[ He’s wearing a mock turtleneck sweater, which gives her nothing to undo or untie. Instead, she puts a hand on his chest and allows it to drift down to the hem of the sweater. ]
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I suppose I could do with losing a layer or two, seems only fair.
[He places a kiss between her breasts and then moves back enough to strip off the tight turtleneck sweater, revealing his bare chest which has pale skin and scars here and there.]
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Better.
[ Midge guides his head back down to hers so that she can kiss him again. ]
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Midge drapes one of her legs up over the back of the couch, opening herself wide for him. Any shyness she might feel is superseded by her desire to feel his mouth on her most intimate places.
A long sigh escapes her lips when he finally makes contact. ]
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Alfred…
[ She sighs his name. His tongue explores everything, but her breath hitches when it finds her clit. ]
There…
[ She’s pretty sure he’s aware. He already found it once. He knows what he’s doing - and that is teasing her. ]
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He continues to suck, making sure to never do it too hard as he knows that little bit of flesh is sensitive, and while he lavishes attention on her clit he also slides a finger slowly inside her.]
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Midge starts to rock her hips gently against his face in time with his tongue. She can feel his finger prodding at her entrance, then moans when he pushes it into her. Penetration is just an added bonus to the pleasure that he's already giving her. ]
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[ Midge is surprised when she feels her hips being lifted by him. He holds her, thighs trembling, to his mouth as he devours her. Her eyes meet his for a split second and it’s nearly enough to make her come. ]
Alfred…
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You really like doing that, don’t you?
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Course I do.
Why wouldn't I?
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[ Some think it’s gross, but think that women should still give them blow jobs. The double standards are astounding sometimes.
Midge leans down to kiss him, tasting herself on his lips. Her hands travel down his chest and abdomen until she’s cupping the front of his pants. ]
Oh you really like doing that.
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Yes, yes I really do.
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[ Midge uses her other hand to sift through his hair. It’s very sweet that he wants to make her come so much, but she wants to return the favor too. ]
We could move this to my bedroom?
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If that's what you'd like then I'm game.
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Her room is pretty standard. She has a lot of clothes and accessories, but most of them are tucked away in her closet. Midge pulls him in close for another kiss as her fingers start to work at undoing his belt. ]
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Pulling back, she takes a breath and allows him to get his shoes and socks, as well as his pants, off of his body. ]
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Now fully naked he approaches Midge with a smile.]
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You on top or I?
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Whatever makes you come hardest.
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Sit sits on the bed and leans up to kiss him before having him join her. ]
I usually come harder when I'm on top.
[ Pushing lightly on his chest, she urges him to lie down. ]
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Then by all means.... [He says and pats his thighs, indicating that she should get on top.]
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She reaches out and wraps a hand around his cock, drawing it slowly up the length. ]
Looks like you really enjoyed putting your head between my legs.
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Of course I did, you taste delicious.
[His eyes suddenly grow serious and he rises up a little, catching her gaze.]
Before we do this...shouldn't we use something? I mean....you seem to be very fertile.
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Is two kids ‘very fertile’?
[ She kind of doesn’t think so, but he has a point. Her main method of birth control is a calendar, and accordingly, she should be okay right now, but she supposes you can never be too careful. ]
Uh. There might still be some condoms in the back of the drawer…
[ Getting up, she opens the nightstand on what used to be her ex-husband’s side of the bed and rummages around in the back. Sure enough, she finds a half full box of condoms that fortunately aren’t expired. Midge tosses it on the bed. ]
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[Once upon a time he thought about starting a family but that ship didn't just sail, it crashed on the shoreline.]
Thanks. [He says when she tosses him the condoms.]
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Midge lies down on the bed next to him. When he takes out one of the condom packets and rips it open, Midge takes it from him. After fishing the condom out, she puts it on the tip of his cock and rolls it down the shaft. She wraps her hand around it again and starts to stroke him. ]
You have a very nice cock.
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Why thank you, I'm glad you like it.
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Where were we? I think we were…
[ Rising up on her knees, she moves forward until his cock is between her legs. She reaches down to fit the head at her entrance. ]
Here.
[ Midge slowly sinks down on him, his cock filling her. ]
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Bloody hell.
[He murmurs softly.]
You feel fantastic.
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So do you.
[ Midge settles for a moment, then begins to rock back and forth on top of him. For now, most of his cock stays inside of her, but it still feels incredible. ]
Fuck, that’s perfect…
[ She moans softly and anchors her hands on his chest. ]
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This is going more slowly and more sensually than she thought it would, but it feels fantastic. Midge finally starts to speed up a little, pulling his cock out a bit and then pushing it back in with each thrust. She moans low in her throat as her pleasure builds. ]
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His other hand moves to rest on the upper swell of her hip, feeling the rhythm she's building to and matching it with his own.]
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After building up a nice rhythm on top of him, Midge reaches down to where they’re joined and starts to rub at her clit. She can’t tell how close Alfred is yet, but she knows she’ll probably need a bit more help to reach her climax than he will. ]
Alfred… [ She sighs. ]
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Fuck.....you feel so good.
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[ Her breath hitches as the pleasure builds inside of her. She can feel it nearing the point of snapping thanks to his thrusts and her fingers on her clit. For his part, Alfred doesn't seem to be at his climax yet. Midge squirms on top of him, but doesn't stop touching herself. ]
I'm so close...
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Come for me.
[He pants and begins to thrust even harder and faster, almost bucking his hips as he uses his grip on hers to help pull her down against him.]
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Her head falls back and she cries out his name loudly as the pleasure inside of her reaches its peak. She trembles on top of him, the walls of her cunt contracting around his cock as he continues to fuck her.
Her hands land on his chest and she feels boneless. ]
Mmm take what you need…
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Bloody hell, Midge.
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You look very hot when you come.
[ Midge twines her legs with his, wanting to cuddle with him for a little bit and bask in the afterglow. ]
This isn’t how I expected my evening would go.
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What were your original plans?
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[ Midge looks up at him. ]
An enjoyable evening, but not as enjoyable as this.
[ She starts to trace her fingers over some of the scars on his chest. ]
that was meant to say "as long as she'd like"....stupid phone autocorrect
Glad to hear it.
it’s all good!
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I'm sorry, they aren't very nice to look at.
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You got them in service to your country. To the world, actually. To my people as well.
[ She wonders how much action he saw and if he saw any of the death camps, of the Jews as thin as skeletons. It’s not something she’s going to ask in bed. They’re having a nice night, and she’s sure he doesn’t want to reminisce about concentration camps.
Instead, she leans in and presses her lips to one of his scars. ]
[ OOC: their timelines are probably a little off for him to have been in WWII and this also be 1960, unless he was extremely young in the war or he’s older than he said he is, but we do what we want. Timelines, schmimelines. ]
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[He says with a sigh and leans his head against hers.]
We were the men who did things others wouldn't. Covert surveillance, close-combat fighting, hostage rescue and special reconnaissance.
[ooc: in Pennyworth he says he joined up in the service at age 16 and was there for ten years, so the timing probably doesn't work but like you said we do what we want 😁]
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[ She’s not planning on telling anyone anyway.
When he puts his forehead against hers, Midge reaches up and strokes her fingers though his hair. ]
That doesn’t sound like a unit that you sign up for or get drafted into. How did you get picked for that?
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No, you're safe.
[The feeling of her fingers in his hair is soft, soothing and he closes his eyes briefly.]
I got picked right near the end of my training, I guess they saw something in me that matched with their qualifications.
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[ Admittedly, she hasn’t seen that side of him yet. He’s not a huge, bulky guy, but he must know how to fight. ]
Probably not your ability to make women come very easily.
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No, thankfully they had nothing to do with that. I come by that through my own training.
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[ It’s too serious of a topic for pillow talk. Midge cares about him and wants him to be able to discuss difficult subjects if they’re on his mind, but right now it seems that both of them would rather talk about something more pleasant.
Midge picks up his hand and holds it to her lips, kissing the palm. Then, she moves it gently down between her legs until he’s cupping her warmth. ]
You wanna show me what you learned in your training?
ooc: shall we end this thread here? ;)
Absolutely.
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And I figured I'd just keep an eye on what memes you put her on, unless you had a specific idea you'd like to do?]
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for @hawk_shot (tfln continued)
That will probably be in another month or so, he's really sprouting up.
So far as I know Bruce never made notes when he used to visit his father at work, it was more about him spending time with his Dad than anything. It was only after they died that he started to dig into the company and how it worked.
Thanks for moving us, hun! <3
That's still so impressive. Like, he was so young but taking it all so seriously to make his parents proud.
I...
There's something I've been meaning to ask you, now we're talking about that.
Anytime 💕
Oh? What's that?
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Turns out that the both of them had corrupted it from within.]
Since everything that happened with my mom, people from the company have send me emails and called me. They told me to take my time, that they would take care of things.
But now they kinda want to know if I'm going to be back, if I'm going to be part of the board myself.
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This guy I've been
[No. He's way more than that and she can't keep calling Ed 'the guy she's gone out with' when she talks to Alfred or Bruce.]
My boyfriend says I need to take care of that.
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And I don't want to think of my mom and dad right now.
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Trust me.
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Spend the whole day at the office?
Ed says I can turn mom's office into something else, but that... Feels wrong.
[Shit, the name slipped out.
.... It means nothing. There's gonna be hundreds of Edwards in Gotham.]
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It would have to be someone I could trust blindly.
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Is there someone you trust like that within the business?
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I don't know.
It's like, do you know how sometimes someone will ask you 'what's your favorite book?' and your mind goes blank? And it feels like you've never read a book in your entire life.
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It sounds like you're scared to make a decision.
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I almost have a degree in business management and I've been going to work at the office many times, but I feel like I have no idea of anything.
It's everything my mom and dad built.
What my mom is in jail for.
And I could fuck it all up.
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Or you could run it just as good if not better than your Mum ever did.
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How?
I'm not made to be behind a desk.
Half of the time when I try to do something important I end up making a mess.
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And that's not true, you caught and put away Fisk. That was important and you didn't make a mess of that.
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I miss my mom, Alfred.
Not the woman I saw that day. My mom.
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And she's still there Kate, she messed things up just like you're afraid you will do, but that doesn't mean your Mum is gone forever.
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She killed a man, tried to get rid of Clint too. Even if
[She sends the text unfinished, her thoughts trailing somewhere else. Into a confession of sorts.]
My dad fucked up too.
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What do you mean?
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I know you are friends, but what if she's not the same woman you used to know?
before he brought me to Gotham, my boyfriend stopped by the penthouse to pick up Lucky and some clothes for me, my stuff.
He found some paperwork too, some old files.
My dad is the one who started doing business with Fisk, Alfred.
Mom was left with his debts.
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That explains some things.
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I know she loves me. She asked you to look after me even now. But she's still someone different now.
[It feels like a dumb thing to say. But she doesn't want to drown him in questions. Not when the next one matters so much.]
Whatd you mean?
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Just like you're different now as well. But not entirely and not so much that either of you have to loose hope.
It did seem strange to me that your mother would randomly go into business with a fella like that, she was always very ambitious about her work but never careless.
Your father on the other hand was more naïve than she was, especially when it came to people.
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I didn't know you knew my dad. But, I guess I should have known. With you and mom being so close over the years.
But what if you are wrong? What if like mom, Dad wasn't the good man I thought he was?
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I'm not excusing it, it was wrong.
Your father was a good man. [A sometimes stupid man in Alfred's opinion but still a good one.] But he was human and made mistakes like we all do.
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But she probably hates me now.
And she probably figured that if I start making decisions in the company I'm gonna make a mess and everything she did in dad's name, it's all going to shit.
I remember they fought a lot. During the last years.
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Really? Do you think it could have been about Fisk?
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But you don't know that.
Maybe. I don't know if she knew back then or if Dad did this against her back.
I remember them fighting when they thought I couldn't hear them.
Now I understand why mom sounded always super mad and worried while dad was calm.
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If she sounded as upset as you say she did then I'd guess that yes, he did do it behind her back.
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I never thought my dad could be such an asshole.
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As I said before, he's human. Which does mean having the potential to be an arse.
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It's weird because... Dad was always kind of perfect in my mind. The perfect dad.
But he put the company before mom. Even if he didn't mean to.
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It's not that weird.
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Did you go through the same thing with your dad?
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No. I knew from a very young age that my father could be a bastard.
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... Oh.
Sorry to hear that.
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It's all right. I loved my father but he had a lot of flaws, most of which he took out on my mother.
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Maybe when jumping off buildings but...
No.
That's so not okay.
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No, it's not. I didn't like him very much as a person but he was my father so I did love him if that makes any sense.
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No, I don't.
I think I might die for a second, but... I know I can focus.
I remember that Clint did it before.
Normally, it wouldn't.
But now it kinda does.
Did your mom love him too?
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She did, very much so.
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Even through all of that, was she happy?
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Most of the time, yes.
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It's kind of terrifying.
That's gotta be real tough.
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It was.
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At least your mom couldn't have a better son.
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That's sweet of you to say.
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Yeah. Yeah, maybe something like that could work.
I don't wanna face the board and feel on my own.
I mean it.
I don't have many men in my life but in a short time you've become pretty important to me, Alfred.
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I know you do but I wasn't a perfect son. I loved my Mum but I made plenty of mistakes.
You're important to me as well.
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It's hard to imagine you being less than perfect, but I'm not gonna argue with you.
It's crazy that I didn't even know you existed until some months ago. And you...
You've known about me my whole life.
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I am very far from being perfect, Kate.
I'm just glad I finally got to meet you face to face.
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You think I could hire him to like, learn about the company and help me out?
Well, you give pretty awesome advice. Can you at least take that compliment?
I'm sorry I was such a little shit when we first met.
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I think it would be better if you learned about the company and pinpointed any aspects about it that you're unclear on or need guidance on how to navigate.
That I can.
No apology necessary.
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I've been kicking myself for weeks about that, trying to ignore it and afraid of eve thinking about it and suddenly its like you fixed it all up for me. And gave me a plan.
I owe you big time.
For this.
For everything.
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Seriously, you guys made me feel so incredibly welcomed from day one.
And you Alfred. Since we met you went the extra mile for me.
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Well of course, your Mum was always very special to me so it stands to reason you should be to.
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Even when I was a total brat when we first met?
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Because I look back at that first time we met (me being super late included) and all I can think of is how much you must love my mom to have put up with all of that.
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[That's an accurate turn of phrase considering his past with her Mum....]
It didn't take you that long to drop the attitude.
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Thankfully. I would feel like SHIT now if I had been even worse than I was.
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You were fine, in fact your attitude reminded me a bit of your Mum's when she was young so mostly it was just amusing to me.
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...
How was my mom when she was younger?
Aside from someone who apparently dressed as the condom fairy.
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She was a spitfire.
Strong, determined and wicked smart.
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Who met the british badass dude and instantly became BFFs?
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Pretty much, yes.
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Have you taught him to shave yet, Alfred?
Wish mom had told me more about you, from that side of things. I feel like she never tells me anything... Personal. The stuff that matters.
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I taught him last year actually even though he hasn't really needed to do it.
Sometimes it's hard to tell your child about certain parts of your life.
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That's so adorable.
What's so hard about telling me about a super close friend? Specially as she spent the last year and a half bringing this super annoying guy home who took the libery of calling himself my step-dad.
...
Now I know he wasn't a bad guy, but Jack was annoying as hell.
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Because it was a very long time ago, Kate. And she might have felt embarrassed to tell you things like the condom fairy.
That does seem rather presumptions of him.
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Are all your memories together about dirty costumes? Because unless that's the case, it makes zero sense to me.
That would be an understatement.
The guy would bring me flowers or tell me about how he got a book about parenting. It was so cringey.
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No, not all of them. But let me ask you this, do you tell your mother everything about your life?
It sounds like he was just nervous and trying to make a good impression on you.
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... That's different.
Maybe. But he was trying a little too hard.
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How so?
Probably because he was worried.
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... Because... I don't know, it's just weird to know about every thing your daughter does, isn't it?
But she... Now I understand why she wouldn't talke about things. She's probably ashamed of herself.
Probably. But he skipped a bullet with mom. Literally.
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It works both ways then, it's weird to know everything your Mum does isn't it?
Gee thanks.
I don't find that very amusing.
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Well, yeah! But it's still different.
I'm not saying that that involves you!
But it's true. Alfred, she framed him.
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In a way you are.
I'm aware but I don't think it's funny.
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Of course I don't want all the details. But it's unfair that she knows so much about my life while I realize I've been raised by a stranger.
How??
Yeah, well, you can blame her for that.
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And you call your Mum a stranger but it works both ways, missy. You ever think that maybe your Mum would have told you more if you had asked? Or sat down and shared things with her instead of her getting random phone calls from others about you?
Because like you said, I was one of her secrets.
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Because that's it, our money is dirty and there's blood on it because of her!
I'm sure she would have told me, same as she told me all about her friend the british guy.
[Kate types fast and sends it without thinking.
But a different sort of regret reaches her first, one that sounds like the Riddler when he points out that no, she's not perfect or fully a hero. Not as good as she pretends to be.
Because yes, she's sheltered and yes, that money is stained with blood.]
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But I notice you don't have anything bad to say about him, do you?
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Meanwhile, she's been working for more than ten years for Fisk.
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[And after that response Kate will get no more from him.]
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[She's fuming, tossing her phone away, but reaching out every once in a while to check if Alfred has replied.
Kate is glad she's not at Bruce's place now, instead heading to Edward's apartment.
At least Ed gets it.]
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Not gonna lie, I'm shipping him with Eleanor now.]
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Me too! <3 I love the idea of him and her being in love when they were young and him always wishing they had continued later on.]
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Aaaaw yes. And now taking her daughter under his wing and Kate considering him family, unaware of his past with her mom. At some point if you want I can totally play Eleanor for him. <333]
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Ooooooooh I'd love that. <3333]
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I can set up something over the weekend! <3]
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Kay!! Do you want to do something where he visits her in jail or...?]
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Yeah, I was thinking a phone call. But it would be SO sweet if Alfred visited her not only to give her an update on Kate (and maybe show her pictures ;___;) but what if he went to see her for the holidays?]
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UHNNN MY HEART!! YES. He would totally go see her for the holidays!!]
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Yesssssssssss!! <33 Next step, you have a step-daughter, Alfred. No matter if you and Eleanor make it official or not. Sorry, I don't make the rules.]
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Hahahah he wouldn't mind that one bit, he never thought he would be a father but it turns out he's a damn good one.]
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Exactly! And he is exactly the mixture of sweet, cheeky and DONE that Kate needs in her life. Plus, just like us, she already adores him to bits.
Have fun next Christmas once you're introduced to your son-in-law, Alfred.]
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Bwhaha omg he would probably wind up just punching Ed on sight.]
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LMAO Kate having to step between them, arms extended and going "BOYS!!" before they kill each other. XD]
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💙💙💙
for @theshadowed (tfln continued)
No, I don't think I would actually.
Special Air Service.
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Pilot, cool. You still fly?
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Among other things and no, not anymore.
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I do mostly contract work.
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What kind of contracts?
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Pays the bills, though.
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Well, actually, some people need to get hurt, but that's not the kind of stuff I do.
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And how did you get to be so good at that?
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Mutant hrm? Like the ones they talk about on the news?
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Yep, I like what they're talking about on the news, which is really fun.
The fun comment was sarcasm. But you seem smart enough to know that.
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You don't have to worry, unlike some people I don't believe everything the news or tabloids say.
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Good to know, but I should warn you I'm absolutely terrifying. (Not really)
Going to go out on a limb and guess or hope that you don't support the Registration Act.
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Well I guess I should have warned you that I'm absolutely charming.
I don't know much about it, I'm kind of new to the states, but it sounds like a bloody awful idea.
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Oh, it is; I'd think so, even if it wasn't going to 100% wreak my life.
But enough of MRA bullshit, we have drinks to figure out.
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Do you have a particular type you fancy?
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Beer-wise, I like hazy if we are going quality; if we are going quantity, whatever is on tap, my PBR days are long over. Hard Alcohol: I stick to vodka or rum.
PBR might be an American thing.
What about you?
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Is PBR that awful stuff that tastes like super watered down beer?
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Choices were made.
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You poor Americans, at least when I was sneaking drinks at a young age they were good and proper lagers.
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We drank what we could get our hands on, and by hands-on, we couldn't raid my dad's liquor cabinet or fridge.
There were some good times, even if it was shit beer.
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These days, good times, good friends.
What about you? Mister, I've always had good taste in alcohol.
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Mister? Oh you don't have to call me that, Alfred is fine.
And I'm always a fan of a good pint of lager, maybe a Guinness in the winter, and a glass of whiskey served neat.
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Oh, probably charming with dad jokes?
Alright, Alfred. Anyone ever call you Alfie, or is that one of those "not if they want to live,' style nicknames? Only a few people actually call me Isadora.
I can get behind that. Guinness isn't a drink; it's lunch.
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What do you prefer to be called if not Isadora?
It's both which is what makes it so good.
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Only my parents and some of the teachers at the school called me Isadora.
It really is; I haven't gone out drinking for a while.
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Been too busy? Or had a bad experience?
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Have some downtime for the next week or two.
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ring ring over to the musebox
for @doesntsing (tfln jailbreak continued)
[His place isn't exactly what most would call 'lovely' and definitely not 'fancy' but it does suit his style, when he came over from London to work for Thomas Wayne the young billionaire had offered to put Alfred up in one of New York's best suites but Alfred couldn't do that. He felt out of place and had instead opted to find his own apartment and just have Wayne pay the rent instead.
When he and Midge arrive he gets the door for her, smiling to himself as he watches her expression when she sees his place for the first time.]
thanks for moving us
I like it. [ She takes off her coat and hangs it on a hook by the door. ] I hope I didn’t put you out by having to come bail me out tonight.
no worries :)
Do you really think I'd be bothered by something like that?
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[ Midge leans in to kiss him. ]
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[ Midge sits down in the chair across from Alfred’s bed and lets out a slow breath. Even if she’s used to it, being arrested is never fun. ]
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Penny? [He asks, meaning a penny for her thoughts, as he passes her the drink.]
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I’m sick of getting arrested for bullshit reasons. We’re supposed to have free speech in this country.
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[ Midge gets up and joins him on the bed because she wants to be close to him. She rests her head on his shoulder. ]
I just feel like there are more important things we should be addressing as a society rather than what a housewife is saying on stage.
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But we both know that it's more than just what you're saying on stage, it's that you're challenging people's perceptions.
[He turns and kisses her temple.]
Which I think is pretty sexy.
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[ Midge takes another sip of her drink. ]
Did Mr. Wayne keep you busy tonight or was I the only one you had to come rescue?
[ Alfred has told her a bit about his employer, but she doesn’t know the full extent of what Alfred does for him. ]
[ OOC: hopefully that’s okay for me to assume. ]
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[He knows she does it because she's amazing and a bit of a rebel.]
Wayne? Nah, he's been quiet the past few days.
[Which makes him a little nervous to be honest, trouble seems to follow Thomas and when things get quiet it usually means something big and awful is about to happen.]
I'm not complaining though, it means I have time to see you.
[ooc: yup! That's cool, Alfred would tell her a bit about Wayne but still keep it very vague to help keep her from getting involved in the trouble they get into.]
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[ Midge slides into his lap and puts a hand on his chest before tilting her head up to kiss his mouth. It’s a slower, more sensual kiss than before and Midge ends it by sucking on his lower lip. ]
How can I repay you for your gallantry this evening, Mr. Pennyworth?
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[He hums as she slides into his lap, his eyes slowly closing as he leans in to kiss her back.]
Mmmm it seems you're already on the right track.
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[ Alfred is a man that one would rather have working for him than against him. Midge is sure that Wayne is smart enough to know that.
Midge pulls her sweater up and over her head, depositing it on the floor and leaving her in a black lace bra. ]
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[It's not like he hasn't done it before, he and Thomas are close friends now but there was a time when Alfred didn't trust him and they had gotten in a few fights.]
This is a pretty little get up....
[He says and runs his fingers along the top part of her lace bra.]
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[ Nothing personal against Mr. Wayne. She just thinks the idea of Alfred giving anyone a black eye is pretty hot, especially if they deserve it. ]
Thank you. I can leave it on if you like it so much.
[ Midge doubts that he likes it that much. ]
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[He says with a small smirk.]
At least until I find out if you've got on matching bottoms.
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I guess you’d better take off my skirt then.
[ Midge wears her nicer, matching underwear when she thinks that Alfred might be seeing it. ]
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[He murmurs and lets his hand slide down the small of her back to unclasp the back of her skirt and to draw the zipper down.]
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Do you like it?
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Does that answer your question?
[He teases and gives the garter belt strap a small snap.]
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[ She runs her fingers through his hair as he kisses her. His kisses are always wonderful, deep and passionate, full of his feelings for her. Midge hopes that she expresses her feelings for him in the same way. ]
You’re overdressed again.
[ Her fingers go to the hem of his shirt. ]
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[He glances down at the white dress shirt and tie he has on.]
Sorry, I thought it best I didn't show up to the police station in my knickers. We might have both had to spend the night there if I had done that.
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[ Midge pulls at the knot in his tie, loosening it. ]
Did they tell you that I’ve been a naughty girl and that you should keep me in line?
[ He’s a man. They presume he’s in charge of her. ]
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[He had in fact, mocked them a little bit for being so offended by the idea of a strong woman.]
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[ Midge pulls the tie from around his neck and then starts to work on unbuttoning his shirt. ]
The idea of you trying to keep me in line is kind of sexy too.
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Is it? And how would you like me to do that?
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I guess you ought to keep my naughty mouth occupied.
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I think I might be able to do that....
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You’re very good at it.
[ Once Alfred’s shirt is off, Midge continues to kiss down his chest as she lowers herself down on her knees between his legs. ]
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[He says, shrugging the dress shirt off his shoulders and tossing it in the same area he flung her skirt. When she starts to slip between his legs he lifts his brows at her, he's pretty sure he knows what she's up to but is curious if she's going to pull any surprises.]
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This seems big enough to keep my mouth occupied for a little while, don’t you think?
[ He feels warm under her fingertips, the flesh hardening with each stroke of her hand. ]
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I think the only way to know for sure is to give it a try.
Making an assumption in this tag that is hopefully okay
yup totally fine :)
Mmmm.
[He hums softly and runs his hand through her dark hair.]
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She likes the sensation of his fingers in her hair, holding her but not forcing her head to stay in place. ]
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And besides, a man's cock isn't complicated and it's not like she needs any instruction on what to do. Encouragement however he can give plenty of that and he moans softly.]
That's very good.
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Midge likes encouragement, being told that she’s doing a good job. She slides his cock out of her mouth so that she can breathe for a moment. ]
Yeah? You like that?
[ She looks up at him with big blue eyes as she teases the head of his cock with her tongue. Moving her tongue to the sensitive underside, she licks a stripe up to the hilt. ]
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I do.
As I've said before, you have a very talented tongue.
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You’re right.
[ She keeps up the teasing licks of her tongue along his shaft and up to the tip. ]
Are you going to come in my mouth?
[ Might as well get that sorted out before her mouth is full again. ]
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That depends, do you want me to finish now or after I've fucked you?
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I guess that depends on how long of a recovery time you need.
[ Alfred enjoys pleasing her with things other than his cock, but she would really like to feel him inside her tonight too. ]
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[He says with a smirk.]
But it's ladies choice.
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[ It’s a bit of an assumption that he’ll want to go down on her, but Midge is also highly aware of how much he enjoys doing that. It’s probably a safe bet that he’ll be willing.
She rests her hands on his inner thighs, pushing his legs apart slightly more as she takes his cock back into her mouth. Midge starts slow, taking him in deep and then sucking him out with tight lips around his shaft. Then, she starts to speed up. ]
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For now though, knowing what she wants he is able to relax a bit more and fully enjoy the experience of her pleasuring him. Moaning softly as she starts to speed up a little.]
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She glances up at him to gauge his reaction. She doesn’t plan to stop again until he comes. ]
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I'm close.
[He whispers to her, giving her a bit of warning so that she isn't taken by surprise and when he finally comes he moans loudly, his hips lifting up slightly as his cock shudders and spills into her mouth.]
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She swallows what's left and downs the rest of her whiskey to wash it down. ]
Good? [ A little smile plays at her lips. He looks quite satisfied. ]
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[He says and leans down to kiss her, not caring that he can taste himself on her lips.]
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After they part, Midge moves from the floor to sit on Alfred’s lap. ]
A fitting thank you for rescuing me tonight, my sweet knight in shining armor.
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Does that make you my queen?
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ooc: as I giggle to myself because in Pennyworth Alfred sleeps with the Queen XD
You know what? Maybe we shouldn't discuss the monarchy while in bed.... It's kind of a mood killer.
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[ Midge chuckles and runs her fingers through his hair. ]
I thought you were supposed to lie back and think of England?
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[He smiles and leans in to kiss her cheek.]
I'd rather think of you.
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[ Midge grins at him. ]
Well, I do have better teeth.
[ She presses her lips to his again, giving him a long, deep kiss before whispering to him. ]
Are you ready to go down on me?
[ It feels a little strange to ask for that, but Alfred seems to like it when she’s bold and asks for what she wants. ]
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[He kisses her back just as deeply, his hands slipping down her back slowly to then cup her ass.]
I'm always ready for that.
Would you like to lay down or sit for it?
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Lie down. That’s more comfortable, as long as it’s comfortable for you.
[ Her undergarments are still on. Midge will let him take care of those. ]
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[He teases and takes firm hold of her ass, supporting her weight as he stands up from the bed, hoisting and holding her so he can turn and then gently lay her on her back. With that done he takes a moment to remove his pants and underwear and then moves to do the same for her.]
This is a nice little set by the way.
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I’m glad you like it. I shop with you in mind.
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Do you really?
Well, that certainly makes me feel special.
[He says with a little smirk as he tosses her panties aside and then moves to unclasp her bra.]
Let's see if I can return the favour, shall we?
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for @hobblepot (tfln continued)
Well I wasn't about to leave you laying in your own vomit.
[He knows you hate being messy, Os.]
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I could have taken care of it myself
I'm a grown man for crying out loud!
[On some level, he knows he should have just deleted his texts instead of sending them off. He stews in shame, the kind that only feeds all the ugly feelings willing him to stay in bed and never get up.]
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Of course you could have, but I want to try and make things easier for you.
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The man I loved is rotting away in a box six feet in the cold, wet dirt
I will never feel his touch or hear the sound of his voice again
I will never know what could have been
I cannot even go and lay flowers on his grave without feeling like I must beg for help with the most infuriatingly basic of tasks
[A tear hits the screen, blurring the letters. He angrily thumbs it away.]
But thank god I made it to the bathtub a little sooner.
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You might not be minding your health but I am.
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Now, I have one last stop before I head back but is there anything you require that you'd like me to pick up?
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I am nearly out.
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I was thinking of doing a roast chicken for dinner, does that sound all right to you?
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[His appetite is near non-existent these days. But he'd notice, of course, if Alfred's meals were any less in quality even if the effort is somewhat wasted on him.]
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Sir?
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All right, Master Cobblepot. Time to get up.
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Sunlight slants in, piercing his eye and the soft, throbbing tissues of his brain. He flinches from it, burrowing deeper under his blanket with a miserable groan.]
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I've prepared a pot of tea, I figured we could drink it in the solarium while we go over some of the news reports I gathered while out in the city.
[He says as he starts to take out cleans clothes for Oswald to wear for the day.]
And then we shall take a walk around the gardens to strengthen your legs.
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He thinks about turning over and shunning Alfred's plans, but something else springs to mind. He blinks, frowning.]
My estate... [he croaks] ...does it remain inaccessible?
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Partially.
[He replies and then expands on what he means by that.] The main roads are better but a lot of the exits leading up to your estate are still rather rough. I worry about it hurting your leg, even if we were to go slow.
[But that doesn't mean he can't go up to the estate, maybe even find a few personal belongings to bring back to cheer Oswald up. Or maybe to start preparing the estate so he can visit it himself later on when he is strong enough.]
for @lasthonestman (tfln continued)
Why just lately? Has something specifically happened to shake your trust up more?
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Try to remember that when things get crazy.
With that being said though, I think perhaps some whiskey during our massage appointment might be a good idea.
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Now you're making this sound more and more like a dream.
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I've got a bottle of 1965 Woodford Reserve that I've been itching to open up.
for @pagekaren (tfln continued)
An idiot.
Maybe you should try dating a fireman or something, they're used to danger.
thank you for enabling captcha escape!
You know, not a bad idea. I think I might just abandon the apps and go old school though.
Stop looking entirely and just let whatever happens happen.
How about you, though? Any dating woes to share?
sorry it took so long, I wasn't near a computer and hate doing html on my phone XD
I've never understood why people use apps, it's hard to get to know someone through a screen.
Maybe. Kind of depends on how we are defining a 'date'.
i know that feeling so well! you beat me to the punchline by like one reply haha
I think of it more as like a pre-first meeting, I guess? Have a couple of conversations and if things seem decent, go ahead and meet up.
I think it can be a pretty broad definition.
hehehe
Pre-first meet up? Bloody hell that sounds like a lot of work, do all Americans make dating so complicated?
Well then I guess yes, I've have a few ups and downs in that department myself.
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It's the American way.
And it can be nice when you're busy. Or if you want to make sure the other person is on the level before you meet up with them.
That sounds like a polite "I don't want to talk about it." I'm sorry to hear you've been having downs, though.
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If you're busy then why are you trying to date?
No, it's fine. I just don't really date much and most my woes come from awkward one night stands.
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Oh, I don't know, because people are complicated? Because I like the idea of having someone to make time for even though I know it's not a good idea?
Are there any one night stands that aren't awkward?
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So why not make enough time to go grab a drink?
I've had a few.
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Well, that's more or less the plan. Just trying to figure out the best route for that since the apps aren't doing it.
Clearly I haven't been doing one night stands the right way.
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Great, 7pm tomorrow night then.
Perhaps it's less about you doing it right and you not being fully comfortable with them?
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Wow, Alfred. That was smooth as hell.
7PM. How does Josie's sound?
Could be.
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Why thank you.
Never been but if you like it that's fine with me.
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Consider me impressed.
It's an absolute dive. Don't get anything with water in it.
But they have pool tables, and you really can't beat the atmosphere.
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Likewise.
Duly noted, and I'm never one to turn down a dive bar.
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What are you impressed by?
Josie's is the dive bar other dive bars hope they grow up to be one day.
Just don't let her talk you into trying any of the "special reserve."
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Maybe ones in America but you haven't been to a pub in the East end of London so we'll have to see who takes the crown.
Got it.
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I've never even been out of the northeast of the states. You'll have to give me a live comparison against a London pub once you see Josie's.
ooc: shall we time skip to the next evening at the bar?
absolutely! i'll give us a little skip in my reply here
-
Karen certainly hadn't expected Alfred to invite her out for drinks, but she's nevertheless pleased that he did. He's good company, after all. And despite doing her level best to warn him off with all the various and sundry problems she typically has, he's just been...intriguingly unfazed.
She heads over to Josie's early to finish reviewing information for a case they're working on, and claims one of the high top tables in the back. She sticks out like a sore thumb in the dive of dives, wearing a skirt, blouse, and flats. But she looks comfortable regardless, relaxed even, in a place where she knows the bartender and the locals.
When she feels someone approaching, she glances up, and then smiles genuinely at Alfred, closing the folder on the table. "Hey. Glad you found the place."
merci :)
"I did." He says as he returns the smile and has a seat across from her. "Did I keep you waiting long?"
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"I like the suit, by the way," she adds with a smile. It's a good look for him. Tweed is a distinctly underrated fabric.
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"Oh, thank you. You look nice as well."
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"We might both be overdressed for a dive," she answers, sounding entertained by the thought. No one's really paying them any mind regardless, because that's just not the vibe at Josie's. "So, what are you going to brave drinking here tonight?"
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"You're obviously a regular so what do you usually get?"
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Meaning: there are a few bottles with the label turned towards the back. The last time she'd braved one of those, it had been the bottle with an eel in it she and Foggy killed after a terrible day.
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He STILL isn't used to that part, the strange insistence that Americans have that things like Budwiser and PBR is actually good tasting.
"I assume we just go up to the bar to order?"
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Even so, her lips press together, and she's clearly trying not to dash his hopes. "Um, they usually have Red Stripe as their...most impressive lager. But Corona might be your best bet if you're looking for a better flavor."
With a smile, she slides off of her stool. "Yeah, it's just Josie herself that works behind the bar. I'll introduce you."
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"I suppose Red Stripe will do for the first round." But after that he might switch to whiskey, "But next time I'm taking you to a proper pub so you can have good beer."
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Josie gives Karen an up nod, walking over as they approach. "Who's the fancy man? You adopt another lawyer?"
With a grin, Karen puts her hand on Alfred's arm. "No, this is Alfred. Alfred, this is Josie. We're going to do a pitcher of Red Stripe."
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"A Brit are you?"
"Yes ma'am."
"That explains the manners."
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"Pretty sure you might be the first Brit to ever drink here," Karen points out, sounding amused as she lightly bumps her shoulder against his.
"About time we expand our demographic."
Josie finishes filling the pitcher and sets it on the bar with two glasses.
"Thanks, Josie. Add it to our tab?"
"Yeah, yeah."
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"Cheers, Josie." He says as he grabs the pitcher, letting Karen get the glasses and lead the way back to their table.
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"So, how does this measure up to your London dives?" she asks, sliding back into her seat as she sets the glasses down so he can pour.
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"And there's not as many dart boards as I'm used to but other than that the ambience is pretty much the same."
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There's a contemplative look on her face as she considers his assessment of London vs. New York dives. "I'm weirdly pleased that we're making a good showing here," she decides after a moment. "And no, Josie took down all but one of the dart boards after a fight broke out using the darts. But I'll kick your ass at pool if you want to play a game." Somehow, she manages to make the offer innocently, even smiling despite the challenging gleam in her eyes.
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"Now a fight that involves darts, that sounds a bit more like a London dive. Extra points if someone got a dart stuck in their head."
Her offer at pool sounds innocent enough but he's not dumb, he catches the gleam in her eyes a lifts his brows at her.
"No thanks, I know a pool shark when I see one."
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His assessment of the dart fight is met with a grin. "Someone did get a dart stuck in their head. He didn't notice, which was impressive enough to put a pause on the fight." That had certainly been one of the more colorful nights at Josie's in recent member.
She lifts her hands in mock surrender when he arches his eyebrows. "That barely counts as pool sharking. I didn't even try to convince you to put money on the game."
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"Now the real question is did he pull it out and keep playing?"
He has another sip of beer and offers her a smirk, "Course you didn't. That would have been too obvious, you look like the type of shark to get the game going first and then make the offer of cash. Reel me in slowly."
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His question about the dart prompts a laugh as she shakes her head. "Oh, he wanted to. Foggy - uh, one of my friends and co-workers - just about knocked him down when he realized what was happening."
She takes a sip of beer herself, giving him a look of wide eyed innocence that she clearly can't maintain. It's obvious that she's trying not to laugh again. "Is it weird that I'm flattered you think I look like a shark?"
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Her wide eyed innocent look though only earns her another brow lift, "Not just look. I know you are." He then laughs and gives her a little nudge. "I'm rubbish at pool by the way, so there would be no challenge for someone of your skills."
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She laughs a little when he nudges her. "Well, that wouldn't be very sporting, then," she agrees, giving him a light nudge in return. "I could be persuaded to teach you. Or we could play never have I ever."
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He seems to consider her offer and then looks around at how busy the bar is and then gives her a sheepish little smile.
"Somehow I think playing never have I ever would be safer for everyone around us." Because he wasn't lying, he really is rubbish at pool and will likely send one of these balls flying off across the room.
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She watches the way he gives the bar a quick assessment, and then chuckles a little at that sheepish smile. "Wow, you're really a menace with a cue, huh?" She considers him for a moment, and then sounding amused, opens up the game with a "never have I ever visited a foreign country." It's a fairly easy starting point, all things considered. Maybe she's just taking pity on him after making him admit how truly bad he is at pool.
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"Starting me off easy?" He asks as if reading her mind, "I've been to two at this point. But if you could pick a country to visit which one would it be?"
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"Oh, 100%," Karen agrees, not even trying to hide it. Though she does point at his glass to indicate that she still expects him to take a drink. "Two in addition to England? And oh, I don't know..." she trails off for a moment, mulling over her options. "I want to say somewhere warm, just because I love the beach. But maybe Italy, actually. The food, the architecture, the museums."
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"Italy is a good choice, there are beaches there you know so it would be a spot where you'd get everything you want."
After a moments consideration he says, "Never have I ever.....danced on a stripper pole."
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There's just a hint of a smile on her lips as he considers his move, and she immediately bursts out in a laugh at the one he comes up with. "Wow, someone's jumping right in the deep end." She's picking up her glass as she talks, and she meets his eyes as she takes a sip. "Not well, though. I had the most ridiculous bruises one time."
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"I kind of thought that was the point of the game." He counters and waits to see if she will take a sip or not, smiling when she does.
"One time? That seems to imply there were other times."
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She gives him a grin that almost looks more like a smirk. "You didn't specify how many times. That's all you get. But since we're going right in the deep end..." She trails off for a moment, looking thoughtful. She sounds a bit mischievous when she continues, "never have I ever gotten caught in flagrante delicto."
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"If we're talking strictly Latin, the exact definition is 'in blazing offense.'" She lifts her hands, spreading them apart as if to illustrate the point. "Of course, legally speaking, it's a term that means someone has been caught in the act of committing a crime. It's often used in conjuncture with the phrase 'compare corpus delicti,' which refers to the essential facts of the crime that was committed."
Karen allows for just a momentary pause there. There's a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "But if we're just talking slang, flagrante delicto means hooking up. But I think what you're trying to get me to say is 'never have I ever been caught fucking someone.'"
She arches a brow back at him, as if to say, how'd I do?
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"Oh is that what you meant?" He teases before he looks her in the eye and takes a drink, then another, and then another.
"Three times. Once at home, once in a car, and once in a pub."
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Her chin rests on her hand as she leans in a bit, adding on, "I'm still not going to tell you how many times I danced on the pole, though."
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"I'm willing to bet you danced enough times on it to make a decent tip."
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His follow up comment, on the other hand, earns a laugh as her cheeks pinken, which she can do nothing to hide. "It was mostly at college parties, so tips weren't really involved."
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Mainly because he didn't go to college.
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"I never actually went to college," she says with a grin. "Just got invited to the parties at the closest university. And crashed the ones I didn't get invited to."
She's pretty sure she'd be taking a sip if she had gone to college. She's reliably pretty skilled at getting in trouble.
Considering her options for a moment, she continues with, "never have I ever sent someone a dirty picture...with my face in it."
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He reaches for his glass but instead of moving it closer to himself he actually moves it away by an inch.
"I don't do that sort of thing, I've always found it a bit rude and you never know who could get a hold of them."
Plus there's not many people clambering for pictures of a man with war scars....
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She can't help but smile a little as he pushes the glass away. "To be clear, no one should send those pictures unsolicited. That can be...harrowing." Her nose wrinkles in a way that makes it clear she has absolutely been on the receiving end of an unsolicited picture.
Even so, scars might not be the deterrent he thinks they are. That or it's just her aforementioned affinity for trouble.
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"Never have I ever....fallen asleep during sex."
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After thinking over her round, she decides on, "never have I ever hooked up with someone in a pool."
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He holds up a second finger, "And second, how old are you now?"
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His follow up question is met by an amused look. "How worried are you that I'm going to say '26'?" Because she can sympathize. She'd probably turn tail and run if someone were just months out of that much nonsense. "I'm 35. You?"
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It's not 26 he's worried about, it's if she is younger than that, sometimes it's hard to tell and he hasn't always asked before hand.
"You don't look 35." He says and then lifts his eyebrows at her, "Which is partially why I was asking. And if you must know I'm 32."
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"Well, I figured it was fair game since you asked first," she points out, a hint of warm humor in her voice.
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"And to be honest I have no idea what 35 looks like, I just know you look younger than that. Must be all that dancing on the pole, kept you in shape."
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His theory about her dancing on the pole kept her in shape prompts another quick laugh, and she gives her head a shake. "I think it's actually a combination of uh, adrenaline and anxiety?" she suggests, in a way that sounds like she's making a joke that might have some truth behind it. Her life has been known to occasionally get...high octane.
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He's happy to make her laugh again, it's a nice sound but when she admits to the actual reason behind her slim figure he tilts his head ever so slightly.
"Adrenaline I can understand but what are you anxious about?"
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His question is met with a reassuring smile, and she reaches across the table to rest her hand on his arm. "Nothing right now, don't worry. It just goes hand in hand, I think, with the kind of investigation I do? Like I can't imagine doing anything else, but there's definitely still times I've thought I was in over my head."
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"There aren't too many people who have pools in London, but I once did it in a jacuzzi tub so should I take a half sip?"
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"I think you can be allowed a full sip for that. You shouldn't be penalized for lack of access."
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"Never have I ever done the splits."
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It's an obviously joking reference, and she keeps her glass in hand, looking thoughtful. "Never have I ever gotten a tattoo."
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Her next round makes him chuckle and he picks up his glass, taking two sips.
"I've got one on my shoulder and one on my back."
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Even so, she's visibly surprised when he says that he has not one, but two tattoos. "I wouldn't have pegged you as a tattoo guy," she admits, smiling. There's a momentary pause, and she lets out a laugh, her face turning pink. "I almost asked 'can I see them?' instead of 'what are they of?'" She's not even feeling tipsy yet - just apparently quite comfortable in his company.
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And speaking of beer he takes another sip of his, motioning at his left bicep. "The one here is of a jungle rat, something I got with two other lads in my unit."
"The one on my back is my family crest, I got it after my father passed away."
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While he explains his tattoos, she listens, taking a sip of her own drink. "I have to guess the jungle rat was either an in joke or a nickname in your unit." That often seems to be the way with the people she knows that have served. The mention of his family crest gets an understanding look, and her hand finds its way back to give his a squeeze again. "I don't think you mentioned that he passed when we briefly talked about family before. I'm sorry. It never gets easier, does it?" There's only a moment of hesitation before she continues, "my mother passed when I was 16." There's - so much more to it than that, but that's exactly when her life starts to get messy. It's not a stone she's eager to flip over.
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"It doesn't." He says, his eyes growing sad. "I didn't always have a great relationship with him but I'm grateful we somewhat put things to rest before he passed a few years ago."
Clearing his throat he circles back to something slightly less upsetting, his army tattoo.
"The tattoo is a bit of an in-joke, we were stationed in the jungle and were always mucking about in the dirty parts. Thus the rats."
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She leaves her hand entwined with his as he goes back to the topic of his service tattoo, smiling a little. "Sounds like you were deployed with a good unit. It's always seemed to me like that kind of camaraderie and trust is really important."
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"Important and necessary, they're literally the people you depend on to keep you alive. My unit had a lot of good lads, not all of them made it, but thankfully my two best mates did. Bazza and Daveboy."
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She arches a brow, a hint of mischief in her gaze as she continues, "I have to know what your nickname was if you had one. I'm prepared to bribe you."
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He smiles to himself, clearly warmed by thoughts of his friends.
"No need for bribery, it was Alfie."
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When he owns up to his nickname, her smile widens. "Alfie, huh? That's cute. It suits you."
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He smiles and lifts an eyebrow at her, "What about you? You have any nicknames?"
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Lifting her free hand, she gives it a little wobble. "Karen's not really a name you can make a lot of nicknames from. I'll get Kare sometimes. My mother used to call me Kare Bear, but I don't really like it when anyone else does." Too many memories.
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ooc: sorry for lack of tags, had a busy bunch of days
"And I'm glad you accepted, I'd feel kind of silly sitting here playing this game by myself."
no worries! hope things calm down for you <3
"You'd be a lot drunker if you were," she points out, amused as she lifts the pitcher so she can top off both of their glasses. "Speaking of which...I lost track of whose turn it was."
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"So how long have you been coming here for? The bar I mean."
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His question about Josie's is met with a smile. "Uh, since I started working with Matt and Foggy. It's their favorite bar, and they started bringing me along once I was officially employed with them. All the regulars that come here look out for each other, you know? It's nice. Do you have a favorite local pub you like to go to back home?"
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"Course. Local pubs are far more common where I'm from, my local is one that's been in our neighbourhood for many years. The owner, Jon, is a good bloke. He used to let me do a lot of works deals there since it was a safe space."
Well that and it's not like Alfred had a proper office.
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"What was it called? A lot of British pubs seem like they follow the same naming convention. Adjective noun." She always gets a kick out of the names when someone mentions going to a British pub. His comment about doin his work deals there prompts an interested look. "What kinds of deals?"
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"The Severed Arms. And by deals I mean work contracts, security gigs and the like." A small pause. "I helped Jon out with a bloke who was bothering his daughter so he opened up his business to mine."
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"Oh, that's brutal," she answers with a laugh when he names his local pub. She can just picture what the sign must look like. And she can't help but smile when he mentions how he helped the owner out. "It was nice of you to give a hand. That sounds like it was a good arrangement."
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Because let's face it, being able to say you know where to get rid of bodies would make a good threat.
"It was, still will be hopefully if I ever go back." A pause. "So long as he never learns about me and his daughter...."
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Matt is much more likely to leverage a butcher shop style threat. Though that's really only during his...extracurriculars that she's not at liberty to share.
There's a pause after his comment, and she lets out a laugh, trying (and failing) to give him a look that looks more genuinely scandalized than playfully so. "Sounds like things heated up after you gave her a hand."
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A pause as he looks even more guilty. "And then we slept together twice."
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"Wow. That second time was the real choice, huh?" she points out with a grin, just lightly ribbing him. "Sounds like you're a regular heart breaker, Alfred. Should I be worried?"
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"I guess that all depends on what you're looking for."
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"Well, uh, I'm great at first dates," she begins, all self-deprecating humor. "Anything beyond that I try to be careful. I investigate criminal activity and corruption, I write articles about it. There's people in this city that would probably consider me their enemy for the work I do. And for the people I work with." It's not like Matt and Foggy are exactly passive in the cases that they take on. "I hate the idea of getting someone caught up in that. So it gets...complicated."
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Pot meet kettle and all that.
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"Although I'd wager I get shot at more often than you do."
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The statement about him getting shot at more than she does gives her pause as she tries to track exactly how high that number is and realizes she's going to need more than a quick moment of mental math to get there. "Well, it's usually not on a weekly basis?" she says after a moment with a helpless shrug. "It's not my favorite part of the job. But I can't imagine doing anything else."
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But in a way that's kind of good because it means Karen actually understands parts of his job more than most the women he's met who always say they get it and accept it but later it causes issues.
"Could you imagine doing this again?" He asks, gesturing to the bar and them.
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His question is met with a thoughtful look, a slight smile at the corner of her mouth. "Maybe not at Josie's. But yeah. Do you think you can handle not being involved when I have a dangerous case?" She figures it's a fair question, if fairly direct. And an important one. Keeping people from being caught in the crosshairs of her bullshit is her top priority.
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After all he works with some people who require anonymity.
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He is intentionally leaving out their last names, he knows that Karen is clever and will recognize the last name Wayne. How could she not when the family is incredibly rich and one of the most powerful in Gotham?
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Karen won't run a search on his usual employers, but there's a non-zero chance she'll put two and two together at some point anyway.
"Also sounds like we should plan to go out again sometime," she suggests with a smile.
ooc: shall we end here?
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for @hawk_shot (injured thread continued)
Well I have the job I like.
[Is he being intentionally difficult? Maybe.]
Thanks for moving us after doing the impossible on the Sunday Texting meme!
[Does she sound like she's judging him? Maybe. But it's unintentional.]
I'm sure it wasn't just us but we do have awesome long threads ;)
[He points out, his smile disappearing.]
Which maybe to you, it is.
Oh no, it was clearly a good sunday of threads for everyone. But ours is awesome, as always! <3
[She frowns, now worried about him as she fidgets with that chopstick, the trick forgotten.]
I just have a hard time imagining you doing this forever.
<3
[He sits back far in his chair, looking at her coolly.]
I've worked hard to become my own man, to start a business and when you come from absolutely nothing that's a much harder road to go than you'd ever be able to imagine, Kate.
[Finally he turns his gaze away from her, looking down at Lucky who is nuzzling his knee.]
I'll do it for as long as it serves me.
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She reaches out, putting a hand on his arm.]
Hey, that's not what I meant. You know I don't look down on you. What - What you've done is impressive, Alfred.
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Really? You might want to tell that to your face then, because the look you just gave me said it all.
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I didn't give you a look!
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I'm sorry, I didn't mean that. [She takes a deep breath.] You know I care about you, don't you? And I look up to you in many ways, you're a pretty inspiring guy, Alfie.
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[He says and gets up from the table, clearly still upset but after taking two steps he turns back to her.]
But while we're on the subject, who are you to question if I'm going to do this forever? What about you? You plan on hanging off rooftops and shooting arrows at bad guys for the rest of your life?
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[She huffs, worry turning little by little into anger too.]
.... How would I know! I - I guess? I'm not good at planning ahead like that, Alfred. All I know is that I wanna help people.
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When you say 'Really? This is all you ever wanna do with your life?' [He says, saying her phrase back at her with the same tone.] it tends to sound a lot less like a question and more like a shitty judgment.
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[getting off the chair, she starts gathering the leftovers and taking them to the kitchen.]
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God you can be such a brat sometimes....
[He mutters.]
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[She pretty much slams the door of the fridge shut, making a startled Lucky raise his head and turn it towards the kitchen.]
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And because you're slamming things about because I dared to point out that you did something wrong.
[He explains as he puts a hand on the table to steady himself.]
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[But she notices it. The second she turns around to keep yelling at him, she notices the way Alfred leans his weight onto the table.
Without thinking it twice, she comes to him, holding his shoulders in the hopes that will steady him. Only then does she notice how pale he is looking.]
Hey, you okay? Why don't you sit down a second?
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I'm fine. It would just be nice if the room stopped spinning for a second.
[It's a poor attempt at a joke but he lifts his head back up to look at her, his expression softening.]
I don't want you to cry, Kate. But listening would be nice.
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[The second his head sags, Kate cups his cheek and pulls him towards her, letting Alfred rest his head on her shoulder. But she notices that look first. She embraces him, making sure he feels supported.]
I really am sorry, I never meant to hurt you. And I'll try to listen, I promise.
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I'm sorry as well.
I shouldn't have snapped at you like that.
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I don't know what will happen in the future, but the one thing I know for sure is that I wanna keep working with you.
[Or at least, having him in her life.]
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[He agrees and tightens his grip on her a little.]
And I'd like that, I might give you shit sometimes but I do consider you a friend.
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You're one of my few friends here. A real one.
[But she's just that. He doesn't let her get anywhere closer.]
C'mon, you should lay down.
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I'm also sorry for dumping all this on you tonight.
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[Which is always cool in her books.]
Hey, you mind if I sleep here with you? The bed is pretty big anyway.
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[He says with a smile and pats the spot next to him.]
You don't have to ask permission to use it.
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Just checking in case you kick in your sleep.
[Heading to the bathroom, it's not long before Kate comes back in an oversized t-shirt and barely visible shorts, climbing on the bed and onto the spot next to him.]
Do you need anything?
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[Now waking up in a cold sweat due to nightmares? That's a different story, but he doesn't mention that to her. Usually the people he shares a bed with don't notice and when she exits the bathroom in her pj's he can't help but give her a look over.]
Can I be a bother and ask for a glass of water?
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[She reassures him before slipping off the bed again. As Kate goes downstairs to get his glass, Lucky heads upstairs and joins him, curling next to Alfred and resting his head on his legs.
Kate returns, handing him the glass.]
Do you need another blanket or pillow? Painkillers? Privacy now that someone else stole my spot?
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She's really quite sweet, isn't she?
[Lucky agrees of course, wagging his tail a little.]
No, I should be fine with just the water.
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[He probably does. After all, he's been shot and is clearly a little dizzy.
Climbing on the bed again, this time Kate gets under the covers.]
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[It will help take his mind off how weak he feels.]
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[reaching over at her night stand, Kate grabs the remote and turns the TV on.
She soon settles, finding a fun and classic action film. Kate scoots closer then, almost cuddling him as she rests her head on his shoulder again.]
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We should do it.
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Hrm? Do what?
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[It would be true bliss. Just resting together, watching things, letting Alfred rest and recover. Hanging together.
Before she knows it, she's getting so comfortable against his that she finds herself nuzzling his chest.]
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[He muses, nodding towards the film which is turning out to be very ridiculous.]
You have a lot planned for tomorrow?
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I was about to say that, but I thought you wouldn't agree! I'm so ordering a flame thrower tomorrow! [She jokes before settling back down against his side, now more obviously pressing up against him.]
Yeah. But what's the point of being the boss if you can't cancel stuff, right?
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I suppose that's a good point, and you haven't really taken a day off since you've been here have you?
[Plus it would be nice to have someone to talk to tomorrow while he heals up.]
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Shit, I'm so, so sorry, Alfred! Are you okay? Please tell me you're okay!
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But, hey! You're a real tough guy. And now you have even more reasons to take the day off tomorrow and spend it with me.
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[He's teasing of course.]
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[She holds her finger up.]
Besides, I'm pretty sure I've been treating you pretty nice all things considered.
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I don't know about that, but now I'm tempted to knee your balls while I'm awake.
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Instead, she seems to get even more comfortable against him, her arm looped around Alfred's waist.]
For being a dick about it.
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[And yet, as Alfred gets comfortable, Kate kisses him on the cheek.]
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for @hawk_shot (tfln let them eat tarts continued)
No, I'll be all right I just need to stay out of her sight or else I'm going to get slapped a lot.
Thanks for for moving the thread 💜
We're talking about an ex, aren't we?
no problem :)
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Fuckbuddy then?
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Damn, Alfred...
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But unfortunately she's also a nutter.
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Crazy eyes, knife on mouth kinda crazy?
Or stalkery crazy?
Honestly, it could go both ways with you.
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Unless you want me to bring you a disguise?
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Maybe a beard.
Definitely a wig.
I think you'd make a great blond, Alfie.
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I can't believe you'd doubt me like that!
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That's so rude, Alfred.
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PS: I think I've lost her by hiding behind an older woman's huge hat.
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So what if I find humor at work?
It doesn't always need to be so boring.
Also, smart move.
But be careful about the old lady.
If you stick to close she might think that you want a Sugar Momma.
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I had a friend, Spanish, he used to say that life is either a comedy or tragedy and it's up to you to choose which one.
I don't even think she knows I'm here, this hat is huge.
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So, what did you choose?
Bet you make a great hat accesory.
Shame she doesn't even know it.
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Comedy.
I'm a little surprised she could fit through the door with it.
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With some Brit humor.
Maybe other guys hid behind it and helped without telling her.
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Exactly.
Maybe. Either way I'm almost out and then I can bring you that tart.
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So, dry and kinda weird.
Do you want dinner?
I can order something.
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Correct.
I could eat.
What were you thinking?
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Would you describe yourself like that too?
how do you feel about pizza?
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Well I wouldn't call myself weird.
That depends, what type of toppings were you thinking about?
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You're telling me you never did a silly walk?
Well, since you're having a hard day of work, I was thiking that you've earned picking them tonight.
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Not all British people are like Monty Python.
All right, how does a meat lovers special sound?
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I guess not. that's some heavy shit right there.
Hmmmmm debatable.
Meat lovers special is one of my favorites.
And Lucky's.
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Great, then let's get that.
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You're not bringing the mood down, ok?
You're just dry and weird.
And I love you for it.
I'm heading downstairs to order it as we speak.
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Kate?
Thank you.
Should we end this one here?
Pizza's ordered.
Can't wait to see you.
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XD
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;D
for @pagekaren (tfln loopy with painkillers continued)
That's a pretty bold claim but all right, I'll try it.
I should be there in about 15.
thank you for the move!
You'll see.
And thank you.
[The ER is crowded when he arrives, and Karen is sitting on a gurney bed in the hallway. Her discharge paperwork is on the bed next to her, along with a bag that has her shirt and some instant cold packs inside.
She's wearing an oversized navy blue scrub top from one of the nurses, which looks entirely at odds with her dress pants and flats. She's typing a text one handed, because her left arm is immobilized in a sling. There's a few other smaller injuries - a cut on her lip, and one on her cheek that looks like it might be on a spot that's going to turn into a bruise.
Glancing up, she spots Alfred and smiles, pointing her phone at him.] Heeeeey! Okay, again I have to say I'm fine. You look weirdly good under hospital florescents, though.
no problem :) that hit captcha so fast this time!
Flattery will get you absolutely nowhere.
How are you feeling? Loopy? Nauseous?
i know! i was surprised
Since when? Um, woozy, I think. And starving.
[She tucks her phone into her purse, then gathers that up along with the bag from the hospital and the discharge papers. Slipping to her feet, she pauses for a moment, feeling another wave of that gelatinous uncertainty that comes with painkillers.]
Thank you again, for getting me. Did this take you away from anything?
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Nothing important.
[He had just been having a drink with Thomas Wayne.]
Here, let me carry that stuff for you.
[He offers as they slowly start to make their way out of the ER.]
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[It's likely rapidly becoming apparent that Karen's filter may just be...entirely gone, thanks to those pain meds working their way through her system.
Though she keeps her footing, she does lean in against him, and surrenders the bag of stuff without hesitation.
It's been a long night.]
Are you ready to be wowed by the fries and shake combo?
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[More importantly he wants to get some food on her, he knows from experience that pain killers on an empty stomach can make you feel like puking.
Once they are outside he leads her to his car which is a dark brown with leather interior.]
Here we go, pop on in there.
[He says as he gets the door for her.]
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[She gives his arm a quick squeeze as she gets into the passenger seat. When he joins her, she flashes him an amused look.]
I think your car is fancier than my apartment.
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It's technically on loan from someone so don't go thinking I'm living a posh life.
Where should I go to get you food?
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[Karen's referencing their conversation at Josie's. Or rather how she remembers it when she's feeling a bit muddled.]
Plus, I haven't seen your place yet, so you could have secret posh vibes.
[She considers his question, then points vaguely off towards the right.]
There's a White Castle that way, about...five minutes? Have you ever eaten at White Castle?
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[He's a gentleman sure but never a posh bloke, there's far too much East London in him for that.]
White Castle? No. Is everything medieval themed or something?
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[The comment is delivered fondly, a slight smile curling her lips. His question about White Castle makes the grin widen as she lets out a laugh.]
No - I mean, the restaurants themselves are sort of...vaguely castle shaped. But it's not medieval themed otherwise. Their sliders are really good. So are the fries. Like, top tier fast food.
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[Thomas is like that but despite being a very rich young man, Alfred likes him and considers him a friend.]
Sliders?
Bloody hell that doesn't sound very appetizing.
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[It's a thin line, but an important distinction.]
And I wouldn't say you take things for granted.
[Still, his assessment of White Castle causes a laugh to bubble up out of her, in a way that it's clear she's genuinely amused. Possibly by the use of bloody hell.]
Sliders are just little burgers. I think they've been making them the same way since like...1920 or something. You have to try at least something. I promise I will make it up to you if you don't like it.
[A promise delivered with the acute sincerity of someone swimming through the haze of pain meds.]
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[He says as he takes a left turn towards the area Karen waved at, he spots the glowing sign and concentrates on getting into the right lane to turn into their drive through.]
All right, what do you want me to order?
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[Karen sounds amused, turning a bit in the seat - as much as she can - to give him a dubious look that's just on the edge of laughter.
Though her attention soon turns to the menu up ahead, and she fishes her card out to hand over to him as she considers the options.]
Okay, definitely fries and a chocolate shake. And...two of the original sliders. And then whatever you want.
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[He says honestly and then shakes his head at how she's offering up her card.]
No no, my treat.
I'll get fries and a milkshake as well.
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Oh, that's gross. Is that a British slang thing?
[Her nose wrinkles as she considers it, though the expression fades when he offers to pay, and she beams a smile over at him instead. Her head tips back to rest against the headrest.]
Are you sure? I already dragged you all the way over here. I'm surprised you didn't ask what happened yet.
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[He glances at her, giving her a smile.]
I'm sure.
[He pauses to give their order at the machine and then pulls up to wait behind the car in front of them.]
And I figured I'd let you eat before bombarding you with questions.
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[She reiterates her sentiment on the idea, though she's still smiling back at him as she lets her card fall back into her purse.]
Thank you. I appreciate...all of this, really. You're a good guy. [There's a beat before she continues, talking quickly in the way that she does when she really means something.] And don't tell me that you're not because of what you do. You can do what you do and still be a good person.
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I wasn't about to argue with you on that, I know I'm no prince and I've certainly done some violent things but I'd like to think I'm a decent enough bloke.
I appreciate you saying that though.
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[There's a pause, and then she can't help but smile again, looking amused at herself.]
Sorry. I'm glad you know that. I think I'm just...used to people not being able to see the good in themselves. I jumped the gun. I'm glad you know that you're good, though.
[It's clear that she doesn't realize that she's repeated herself there. Karen moves a bit, like she's thinking about reaching over to touch his arm or hand, and then remembers that her arm is immobilized. She makes a face. It's going to be a miracle if the sling makes it to the end of the night, never mind the full length of time she's meant to keep it on.]
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[He says and pulls the car up to the window to both pay and get their food, the teen girl working the window perks up instantly when she sees how cute Alfred is and that he's British.
Alfred meanwhile doesn't seem to notice and thanks the girl, making sure to tip her before taking the bag of food and carefully pulling back onto the road.]
Do you want to eat in the car or will it keep till I get you home?
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Oh, this car is too nice to eat fast food in. It'll keep.
[There's a pause, and she can't help but laugh.]
She thought you were cuuute. And you had no idea.
[She is clearly delighted by this turn of events.]
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[He asks, cocking an eyebrow at her.]
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[Karen grins as she points at him, making a vaguely circular gesture with her finger.]
Cute, and completely unaware. It's kind of charming.
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There's no point in being aware of birds that young.
[Sandra, a girl he had been with back home for a little bit, was younger than him but not a teenager.]
They're not even really birds, more like baby chicks.
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[It's clear for a moment by the look on her face that she's picturing an actual baby chick. And then the meaning catches up with her through the haze of pain meds and she lets out a laugh, smiling over at him.]
Nice word play. Have I told you that I find word play unreasonably attractive?
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No, but please tell me more. Are you saying you like puns or more that eloquent, poetic language gets you going?
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[This clearly makes sense to Karen. Or at least to the filterless, rambling version of her brought about by the aftermath of her unfortunate evening. It might be a bit of compartmentalization as well.
Her brow furrows, and she lapses into a thoughtful silence for a moment.]
Hmm. Maybe more a combination of genuineness and cleverness? So it could be a pun or something poetic or a - really good speech or a line from a song. If it's real and it's smart, it's definitely appealing.
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[He teases and turns the car into a parking spot that is about a block from Karen's place.]
I'll have to keep that in mind, although I don't know if I'd be able to pick a line from a song considering my musical taste.
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[Karen manages to deliver most of the sentiment seriously, though she does trail off into a laugh towards the end. Once he parks the car, she reaches over to set the bag of food down on the center console so she'll be able to navigate her way out of the seat one armed. And then he distracts her with that comment about music, turning to give him an amused look.]
Wait, what kind of music do you like? Because that could mean anything from experimental jazz to...death metal.
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[He asks and motions for her to stay put, getting out of the car first and coming round to help her with her seatbelt and easing her out of the car. He grabs the bag of food with one hand and loops the other around her waist again.]
I like a lot of British music from the 60's.
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[She can only be who she is, so she's still trying (and failing) to navigate the process of getting out of the car before he appears at the door to help. She thanks him, leaning in against him as they make their way toward her building. There's a thoughtful hum as she considers British music from the 60s.]
I mean, The Beatles are a given, everyone likes The Beatles. Hmm...I could see you as a secret punk, so maybe like. The Yardbirds and The Kinks, too.
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[He says as he helps guide her to the door, waiting for her to get her keys out.]
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And then she idly sings the opening lines of Heroes as she fishes through her purse one handed in search of her keys. She has a surprisingly good singing voice, clear like a bell, with a tone that seems suited to jazz. Her brow furrows and she trails off, but finally finds the keys and lets them both in to her apartment. It's undeniably a relief to be home.]
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All right, where should I put you? Table or couch?
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I'm going to put myself at the table, if you want to join me.
[She flips on some of the lights as she leads the way in, and then sits down in one of the chairs at the island. As they get the food unpacked, she remembers her threat/promise regarding the fries and shakes, and with a grin, she dunks on of the fries in and offers it to him to take a bite. With the flavor of the ice cream, you can't really taste the potato in the fry - it's just a contrast of hot and cold, sweet and salty.]
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Mnngh.
[He says and then shakes his head, swallowing it down with a grimace.]
Nope.
No.
You're a lovely bird but that's awful.
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That grimace, paired with his response, prompts another laugh, and she lets her hand rest on his forearm, giving it a squeeze.]
You totally get points for trying, though. Want to try a bite of a burger?
[She takes another fry, and gives it a liberal swirl in the milkshake before taking a bite of her own. It's clear that by contrast she definitely enjoys the flavor combo.]
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[He tries the burger next and seems a little less put off by it.]
That's not awful, despite the horrible name but I think I'll just stick to my own fries and milkshake. Not combined.
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[Her indigence is poorly feigned, largely because she still looks amused. And also because she's already determinedly stirring another fry into her shake with her free hand.]
I do appreciate that you tried it though.
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[He says, popping a fry into his mouth with a little grin.]
Especially if it's something you like.
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[Karen is always compulsively honest, but that's definitely bordering on unthinkingly honest. With a smile, she swaps her fry abominations so she can polish off one of the sliders.]
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[Charming and full of cheek.]
So if you feel like telling me right now I won't stop you.
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Truly, ridiculously charming. It means a lot to me that you came tonight.
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Course I came, I'm not about to let you fend for yourself when you're injured and loopy on drugs.
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[Karen's grinning even as she makes her argument, even though she plainly thinks that it's very convincing. After a moment, she continues more seriously.]
I'm still not used to people...turning up on purpose, I guess. So it really does mean a lot. [Which is much more than she'd ever say without the painkillers.]
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No, it's okay. Uh, my mother died when I was 16, and he just kind of...checked out, you know. He's been in a fog since then. My brother and I were running the diner, but it wasn't exactly turning a profit. So I, uh, started selling coke for my ex. He was a real piece of shit, but I was just an absolute asshole. Anyway, my brother got into it with my ex one night. You know, trying to look out for me. I took off with my ex, we were drinking and getting high, and when we got back to his trailer, Kevin had set it on fire.
[Karen gives him a sad little smile at that.]
My ex went after him, so I shot him in the shoulder and got my brother out of there, but I was driving and I had no business driving. I flipped the car. Kevin died and it was my fault. I don't even blame my father for kicking me out, but uh, yeah. I haven't been back home since then. I couldn't even go to his funeral.
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Sounds like a bloody mess all over, I'm sorry about your brother and father. I can see why you haven't been back home at all, with so many ghosts I wouldn't either.
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[Not to use the same word twice, but it's the most fitting. She gives him a smile, shifting her hand to pat the back of his.] Sorry. I know that's heavy.
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[He appreciates her being open with him and after a small pause he decides to do the same.]
I wasn't kicked out but my father and I had a lot of angry words when I joined the service when I was sixteen, he was furious that I would throw my life away like that and make my Mum worry so much about me.
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I'm sorry, I can't imagine what that must have felt like. Joining the service is a big decision to make. What made you want to join up? And I think I remember...you said you and your dad made a peace of sorts after a while?
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And I joined because it was the only chance I had at something better. [He says with a little shrug.] Where I'm from you're basically only ever going to amount to working at a factory, a pub or stealing and dealing.
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[Her head tips a bit, an understanding smile turning up the corner of her mouth at his shrugged explanation.] Considering I was dealing and working at a diner, I get it. Guess rural Vermont has more in common with England than I thought.
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Rural Vermont and East London specifically. [He muses and removes his hand from hers so she can go back to eating.]
I can picture you working at a diner though, in one of those short little skirts and aprons...
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[Once his fingers run the length of the back of her hand, she turns her hand over to echo the gesture, letting her fingertips graze along the under side of his wrist. She can't help but laugh, moving to eat another fry.]
You're going to feel like a perv when I tell you it was my family's diner. I wore jeans and a tee shirt every day. I only wore short little skirts when I was selling at parties or at the strip club.
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[He says with a grin.]
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[She arches her brow pointedly, though she still looks amused.]
I'll wear jeans next time I see you and you can decide for yourself. It'll be better than this look, at least. [Which she's pretty sure can be considered 'hospital chic' at best.]
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But if you're not loving the look I can help you change into something more comfortable after you're done eating.
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[She considers the offer as she dips the fry.] I don't mind the scrubs top, but I definitely want to get into a pair of sweats. Will this be the least sexy way you've ever helped a woman get her pants off? [The question is full of dry humor.]
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[He laughs and has a few more of his own fries.]
It will definitely be one of the more unique but considering it's you, it will still be plenty sexy.
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[It's either a testament to his flirtation or her fair complexion that she's still getting pink in the cheeks. She finishes off the slider shes been idly eating in the lulls in their conversation.]
Want to know something?
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Sure.
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I really wanted to jump your bones that night you stayed over.
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Really? Did you toss and turn all night thinking about it?
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You would've known if I did that night. No, it has been a...distracting thought, though.
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[He says with a little smile.]
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[Karen makes a face, considering him for a moment before she continues.]
Uh, have you heard of Daredevil?
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Well. He's one of the masked vigilantes in the city. And, uh, someone that I have worked with on more than one occasion.
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[Her good shoulder lifts in a shrug, aware that it's a very brief summary.]
But our CI was working with a group that wanted to try to unmask him. They tried to use me as bait.
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And that's how you got hurt? By being bait?
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Still, she lets out another breath of a laugh. There's something sort of - self-aware, in the way she answers that question.]
As you can imagine, I'm not exactly a 'come along quietly' kind of girl.
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[He says with a smile, because lord knows he loves a gutsy woman.]
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[She's smiling back at him, sounding lightly amused when she speaks again.]
The fact that you didn't just lecture me about danger is pretty alluring too.
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wow pardon my wild unclosed italics in that last reply
[And she does appreciate it in a way. But not as much as she appreciates the vote of confidence in her capability.]
That might be a bit more than alluring.
no worries :)
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[He says but then leans in to kiss her cheek.]
But that doesn't mean I like seeing you get hurt so if there's ever trouble and your strange devil pajama bloke isn't around I hope you'll give me a call.
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[She really does. Having people in her corner means a lot to her. Her head tips, leaning in to the press of his lips against her cheek.
Though she can't help the snort of laughter that comes at 'strange devil pajama bloke,' it's quickly chased by a look of wry amusement.]
So uh, I'm not necessarily saying no. But I should probably confess that Daredevil isn't the only vigilante that I could be considered associated with, before you commit to an offer like that. Which is probably shedding some light on why I find dating difficult.
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When you say you're 'associated' with these vigilante blokes, do you mean through work or have you dated them?
[Because why would she mention dating in the same breath as them?]
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They're not all blokes. And no. It's because I have a lot of secrets I can't share, because they're not mine. And a lot of danger not just - directly in my line of work, but in my peripherals.
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[There's a beat, and then she lets out another quick laugh.] Sounds like we could give each other some serious competition in a 'who's had a weirder week' contest.
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Sounds that way, but it's kind of a relief in a way isn't it?
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You know, it kind of is. I'm glad I met you.
[She watches him for a quiet moment before speaking again.] How about I cook you dinner at the end of the week? Your place or mine.
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[He then chuckles and shakes his head.]
Oh no, I don't think your shoulder will be healed by then so I'll cook for you here.
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[Karen makes a gesture to indicate the sling that's holding her arm in place so she won't move that shoulder around. She is, if nothing else, devastatingly self aware.]
I could compromise and let you help me cook.
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All right, deal.
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Good. What's your favorite meal?
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[He says with a little wink.]
It's shepherd's pie.
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Beef or lamb?
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[A beat.]
You can do the mashed potatoes, though. I hate peeling them.
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[Karen gives him a suspicious look.]
Like I could resist a mum's secret recipe. Fine, but if that's what we're doing, then I'm making an apple pie. My mom used to make them for the diner.
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[He says with a smile.]
Fair enough, I was always rubbish at baking.
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[At all. Honestly, the more she thinks about it, the more she just wants to take the sling off already. Even though she knows it's for the best.]
It's a really good apple pie, too. We'll have a pie night.
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Sounds like a pretty perfect night to me.
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Me too.
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[She studies his expression for a moment, trying not to grin.]
I do kind of want to see you try to pull the look off, though.
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No, sorry, it's so good.
[Leaning in, she drops a quick kiss onto his lips.]
You have really lovely eyes. Did you practice that look in the mirror?
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Nah, just a natural born puppy dog I guess.
Woof woof.
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You are a very good boy.
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Well....not that good.
I can be quite naughty too.
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[There's just a glimmer of mirth in her eyes as she shifts her hand to the side of his face so she can run her thumb back along his cheekbone.]
You're going to charm my pants right off one of these days. I'm looking forward to it.
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As am I.
[But not tonight, not when she's loopy on pain medicine.]
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Still, she enjoys the way his head tilts towards her hand, smiling as she lets her thumb stroke along his cheek again.]
I'm obviously not up for it tonight, but you can still stay over if you want.
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[He fully understands how sometimes it's nice to have someone around to help and give comfort when you're in pain and other times you want to be free to be a mess on your own.]
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No, you can stay. I like having you around.
[Not even to give comfort, necessarily, considering she's not joking about the fact that the sling is very likely going to come off in the morning. He's good company.]
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[He says and leans in to kiss her cheek.]
All right, let's finish up this food and then I'll help get you into bed.
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[Her smile widens as she tips her head in to the press of his lips on her cheek.]
See, you're full of good ideas.
[She's made enough of a dent in her food while they've been chatting that it doesn't take much longer for her to finish it up.]
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Do you have one that buttons up?
[As that will be the easiest to get on and off.]
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She smiles at his question, a considering look on her face that prompts a laugh as she mulls over her options.]
You know, I don't mind leaving the scrubs top from the hospital on. The nurse helped me get my bra off for the x ray. I would love to swap these pants for sweats, though.
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[He says and moves in to help her with her pants, unzipping them and then pushing them down around her hips. He then motions for her to sit on the edge of her bed so he can pull them off her long legs. His movements aren't sensual but are still soft and warm.]
Which pair are your favourites?
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Thank you. I could get them, you know. Uh, third drawer down in the dresser. There's a navy blue pair. The waist band is really stretchy, which I think is ideal for tonight.
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[He says with a smile and goes into the instructed drawer, pulling out the blue pair and kneeling down to help guide her feet into the leg holes.]
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[Even so, she grins as she lets him help her navigate the pants on, standing up so she can use her one good arm to help tug the waist band up over her hips. Since she's standing, and because she can only be who she is, she impulsive wraps her arm around him in a hug.]
You're a remarkably good man, Alfred.
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You're not too bad yourself there, luv.
[He quips although his tone is warm and sweet.]
All right, let's get you into bed.
[Slowly he guides her over to her bed, pulling the covers back for her and helping her get in.]
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[Make no mistake, if she had insisted on being treated at the hospital without painkillers, she would be just as insistent right now that she could navigate her way into bed on her own. As it is, she just gives him an amused look as she carefully climbs in and stretches out on her back, wriggling down a bit to try to get into a comfortable position.
Her nose scrunches. Oh yeah. The sling is absolutely not going to last more than one night.]
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Would you like me to read to you for a bit?
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[Apparently she still has some fight in her, as she promptly uses one arm to excavate herself from that very neat tuck. Her sheet is still draped over her, just more loosely. The look she gives him is aiming for serious, but she's clearly also just on the cusp of laughing.]
You cannot tuck me in and read to me. I don't have enough lingerie to counteract how devastatingly unsexy that would be. How about you get in bed and tell me about your day instead?
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Why is that so unsexy?
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Reading your favorite book to me? Very sexy. Tucking me in? Sweet. Tucking me in and reading me a story while I'm incapacitated? There's no coming back from that.
[This is the foolproof logic of someone riding the waves of pain killers to unconsciousness.]
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I beg to differ but all right, no bedtime stories for you.
Instead how about I tell you about the time Daveboy convinced me to steal a limousine so he could impress a bird?
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Oh, I definitely want to hear about that. Any time you mention his name, I know it's going to be good.
ooc: shall we end here?
[It was a dumb idea all right but it does make for a good story and furthermore Alfred is actually a very good storyteller, his tone of voice is rich and soothing and he fleshes out the story with lots of fun details that allow Karen to fully imagine two young boys creeping away from their army training and into London for some fun. It all went tits up of course but by the time Alfred gets to that part she is fast asleep, her head tilted towards him as if she is still listening.]
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for @doesntsing (tfln continued)
A big mistake.
It's probably weird but I like hearing you say that.
Oh I'm sure it is, but there's something about a Mum's soup that transcends recipes.
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Yeah? I could whisper it in your ear.
Well, now I have to make my soup for you. Not because I’m trying to out do your mom, but because I want you to at least agree that mine is good.
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I'd like that even more.
No one can out do my Mum. But sure, I'll happily let you cook for me. So long as you wear one of those cute aprons with nothing on underneath it.
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So who else are you inviting to this party?
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Still can't believe he did that, what an idiot.
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All right, I guess the most important question is what will you be wearing at this divorce party?
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Maybe something tight and black?
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Then after the party is over you can take that elegant, sexy dress off of me.
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This does bring up a question though, have you told any of your mates about me?
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You’re especially mysterious to them because they know hardly anything about you.
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There's just a few areas of my life I can't talk about.
Would you like me to meet some of them?
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I would.
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ooc: interested in threading out the party?
sure!
Would you mind writing the intro to it?
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for @batprince (tfln rembrant vomit continued)
[A pause and then:]
No, it wouldn't.
Where are you?
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[ Yes, he's sunk that low. ]
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I'll be there in 15.
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[ He already knows better than to offer waiting on the street. ]
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The doorman wrinkles his nose at the sight as Bruce steps out into the night air. He doesn't expect Alfred to get out and open the door for him so Bruce helps himself to the passenger seat, gusting out a sigh as he settles into the beatup interior, briefly unable to look at Alfred as the familiar tangle of shame and sentiment knots his stomach. ]
Thank you, Alfred. Were you...Did I interrupt anything?
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No, I was just doing some mending.
[He says as he pulls the car out of the drive and back into the road.]
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Oh. [ The air hangs heavy with the unspoken desire to ask questions, but he's still learning to navigate this new dynamic of theirs. After a moment, Bruce's gaze flits from his folded hands to Alfred. ]
Are you expecting it to be a late night?
[ There's an offer on the tip of his tongue, habit from dictating their schedule when Alfred had been apart of his life, but he waits instead. ]
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[He asks, glancing back at Bruce with a raised eyebrow.]
No.
Are you planning on going out still or shall I drive you home?
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No, I...I was going to ask if maybe you wanted to get tea somewhere. You mentioned the diner, Ruth's, and I thought maybe I could buy you a cup.
[ He doesn't mention that he tried to buy the diner so he could rename it. Maybe it's for the best. Calling it Tiffany's might have been salt in the wound. ]
ooc: awwwwww Bruce 😭 he's so sweet
A cup of tea sounds good right about now, actually.
ooc: he has a lot to make up for 🙈
It does? [ He catches himself and inadvertently smiles with the relief. ] It does. I haven't had a good cup in...
[ Bruce falls quiet. They both know when the last time would have been because Alfred would have been the one making it. Instead he clears his throat and looks out the window. ]
Do they have your favorite?
ooc: true, very true
No but what they have is decent enough.
[His favorite is at home, shipped directly from London. It's the one luxury he still allows himself now that he's living on a budget.]
They have excellent milkshakes though, if you're in the mood for something sweet.
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But that's okay. It's not the tea he's interested in as much as it's the ritual of simply sitting down with Alfred. His brows arch, interest visibly piqued, at the mention of milkshakes however. ]
Do they?
[ He smiles in spite of himself, daring to add: ] Then maybe a milkshake then. What flavors have you tried?
[ Bruce is sure the selection is limited, but he's hungry for any bit of information about Alfred's new life that he can get and this seems a harmless enough place to start. ]
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I've had their vanilla before but I know they also have chocolate, strawberry, peaches n cream, and caramel.
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[ The teasing is subtle, harkening to a time when they were still feeling out their dynamic after his parents' passing. Bruce feels like he's been thrown right back to the beginning except this time Alfred isn't obligated to attend him. Or humor him. ]
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[He says, a faint smile touching the corner of his mouth. Slowly he pulls the car into a spot on the street, nodding towards a cozy looking diner.]
Here it is.
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The diner is small and unassuming, but Bruce had known that before they'd even arrived. He's seen the photos and knows the square footage, but doesn't trouble himself with the idea that the owner might be in, instead pretending to take it in for the first time as he climbs slowly out of the car. ]
Looks cozy.
[ Cozier than the neighborhood it's in but Bruce knows better than to look down on any corner in Gotham. If there's poverty or crime, then he's partially responsible for not getting the right money in the right people's hands to help. ]
Come here often?
[ From anyone else it might sound like a line, but there's a genuine curiosity in Bruce as he waits for Alfred to walk alongside him. ]
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[Which means not as often now that Tiffany is gone, she was the one who was always kind and friendly to Alfred. Their brief friendship meant a lot to him.
He waves hello to the other girls behind the counter and leads Bruce over to a table near the window. One of the other waitresses, Carrie, comes over with menus.]
Here you go, Alfred.
Cheers, Carrie.
[The woman is in her thirties and she gives Bruce a little glance.]
Whose this? A nephew?
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There's a reason Bruce isn't in the manor, after all.
The suit jacket he's in makes him standout as an easy mark but there's something in the small scattering of patrons that tells Bruce he'll be fine. It's the way they regard Alfred. Respect and something akin to admiration in their eyes. Even Carrie, with all her familiarity, treats Alfred like he's more than just a regular. ]
Oh. No, I'm his—
[ Bruce starts then stops, momentarily unsure what to say. He's Alfred's. Full stop. Always has been because the lines were always blurry until Bruce drew them in the sand in an effort to excise the man from his life to better isolate himself in his misery and grief. Now... ]
His friend.
[ Carrie looks at him dubiously but Bruce smiles in an attempt to disarm her and whatever skepticism she might be working through. ]
Seems he has a lot of them here.
[ That does the trick and Carrie brightens, all too happy to tell the tale of their local hero. ]
That's because your friend ran into a burning building just next door. Helped get everyone out. We're proud to have him.
I get that. I feel the same.
[ The ache of not having Alfred anymore forces Bruce to keep the conversation moving. Mostly because he doesn't want to run the risk of hearing Alfred correct him in front of an audience. ]
He says you have excellent milkshakes. Could we trouble you for a strawberry one?
Of course, doll. Alfred? Anything else while I give you two a second to look over the menu?
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Those are the words that are so close to coming out but Alfred stops them just in time, allowing Bruce to correct Carrie and label whatever it is they are now.
Friends.
It's better than what Bruce called him when he demanded he leave the manor but it still hurts him a little to be called anything other than the boy's family.]
I'll have a cup of tea, please and thank you.
[He says and Carrie tips him a wink and heads off to get their drinks, once she is gone Alfred clears his throat and adjusts the cutlery on the table. Straightening it out.]
She's exaggerating, by the way. It wasn't just me who went into the building to help.
for @hawk_shot (tfln cheater cheater continued)
Oh.
Sorry.
Sorry, I just got this!! Also, thanks for moving us!!
It feels like something out of some other lifetime.
I'm sorry I made you feel like I betrayed you.
No problem :)
I'm sorry as well. I acted like an idiot.
💜
I was younger and real stupid.
No, it's okay. I came out of the blue with this.
... Are we okay?
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Yeah, we are.
Aren't we?
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Of course we are. I was worried you wouldn't be.
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It's fine, maybe Sykes had a point with her warning you about me.
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Oh God, Alfred, let it go.
You're not a bad guy, I know you. I thought I was calling you out on breaking her heart, never on being a mean spirited dick.
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Kind of hard to when there's a grain of truth to it, hanging around me tends to get people hurt.
...
I think I just threw up a little at the idea of me and Sykes together.
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You need to stop believing that, stop punishing yourself like that.
...
She's THAT bad, huh?
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Sorry but that's easier said than done.
She's a sadistic lunatic so yeah, she's that bad.
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Would it help if I remind you?
I'll remember to punch her lights out next time.
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[a small pause.] You're already helping. Thanks, Kate.
Only if I'm there to watch.
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Good. That's what buddies are for.
I'll keep her entertained, text you and wait for you to arrive.
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[yeah....buddies. Who check each other out and accidentally slip up and say they care about one another when they're upset....] You're good at cheering a bloke up, you know that?
Perfect.
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[Hey, lots of friends cuddle or spoon each other, checking out their underwear while its off and also on.]
That's a deal then.
So, what were you up to before I dropped the Sykes bomb?
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I was doing some ironing.
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Can I name them and identify the nuances between all the other accents your brits have? No way. But that I can tell.
You were ironing?
Ok.
Going somewhere special later?
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No, just making sure my dress shirts look crisp. My Dad taught me to always do them before hanging them up.
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Yeah, that tracks.
You always look pretty classy.
So, not special plans then.
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Not really no, might go down to the pub.
You?
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Just a maid... And a chef sometimes. But those are not *servants*.
I was planning to have a date with my shower and then some trash tv, but I'm open to change that plan.
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A date with your shower hrm? Guess you've got one of those fancy shower heads...
You wanna join?
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Not once I moved on my own. Even before I came to the UK.
That's not what I meant but of course your dirty mind went straight there. Wouldn't you love to know that, Alfred?
Someone clearly needs to protect you from old, crazy exes.
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You're the one who phrased it like that, not me.
Meet me at the Severed Arms.
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It's just... It was my dad'd place and, I don't know, it felt more like myself. I work hard, I don't need anyone buying my grades or a palce in a championship.
Well, I didn't mean it that way!
You got it.
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No, I know.
It's just... You know what it feels like when you don't think you fully belong in a place? Or with some people? But the whole world is set on reminding you that you do.
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Trust me.
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But...
Thank you.
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And you're welcome, now get on down here before I tell Daveboy you're all alone and that he should stop by to visit you in the shower.
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I'll see you in 10.
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See you soon, luv.
for @pagekaren (tfln gatorum continued)
Well now I'm imagining you in a bubble bath.
But before that I was making myself a cup of tea and cleaning my weapons.
thank you! <3
[Look, she can only be who she is.]
💙
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Does it help with your imagery if you know I found bubbles?
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A little bit, are you in the tub yet or still running it?
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I even brought a tray in so I can have the gatorum while I relax.
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[Karen "helpfully" sends him a photo - the shot is mostly the mounds of suds in her bathtub, with the tray propped up along side the tub. Her bare knee is visible through the suds, and there's a couple of candles on the tray along side her blue gatorum cocktail.]
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Now that's quite the set up, I'm almost jealous.
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[Karen is clearly not above being a bit of a tease, considering she sends another picture. This time, her legs are visible to about the mid-thigh, crossed at the ankle with her heels balanced lightly on the tub faucet.]
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[Well he's saving that picture, isn't he?]
Wow.
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I'm a little disappointed I can't see the face you're making right now. Something tells me it's a good one.
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[A moment later Karen gets a text photo of him sitting shirtless at his kitchen table, gun parts spread out on it with a cup of tea nearby. He feels a little silly sending it but hopefully she likes it.]
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Look at you.
I'd buy the pin up calendar.
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I think you'd be the only one but thank you.
I'm obviously not as good at taking pictures as you are.
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Don't sell yourself short. You look good.
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If I didn't have to be up at 6am tomorrow I would be headed over to help you scrub those hard to reach areas.
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If you didn't have to be up at 6 AM tomorrow, I'd invite you over to help me scrub those hard to reach areas.
If it helps, I'm wearing a goopy green face mask. It wouldn't have been alluring from the other angle.
What's getting you up so early?
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Work.
I have to pick someone up from the airport and make sure they get to where they're headed safely.
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[She sends a selfie, somehow managing to convey a dubious look despite the green goop all over her face. Her hair is piled up on top of her head, and she's angled the shot to just be from her shoulders and above.]
Your usual someone, or are you moonlighting?
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[He saves that picture as well because she looks real cute.]
A friend of one of my usual clients.
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Deep hydration and skin nourishment. It helps make your skin soft and smooth.
It must be nice when you have a client you can vouch for.
Be careful. Let me know if you need anything.
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It is, although sometimes it doesn't stop things from going tits up.
I will.
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Face skin is delicate.
Do you want to try one?
Unfortunate, but true.
Good.
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Uh, I'll pass.
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It feels amazing.
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Especially considering you have evidence that I turned into a slime monster.
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How's the bath feeling?
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Unreasonably nice. I should do this more often.
That should have said slime not smile, stupid phone
i didn't even notice haha
That's because you're awesome
i'll take it!