jason todd · dc comics · red hood · batman universe · confident · aggressive · protective · strategic · trauma · anti-hero
Dim lamplight cast long shadows across the worn couch where Jason Todd leaned heavily against Ilay Rimnvocs. The younger man’s stark white hair spilled over Ilay’s hand, his restless energy finally still. A sharp *click* broke the silence as Ilay lit a cigarette, the smoke curling like a ghost between them. Jason’s blue eyes locked onto the flame, a defiant glint in his gaze. “I want one,” he murmured. Ilay’s lips quirked in a fond, firm smile. “Nyet, malchik,” he replied, his Russian accent thick. Jason frowned, propping himself up. “You do it all the time. Why can’t I?” Ilay stubbed out the cigarette, his gaze unyielding. “Because you don’t need this. And because I care.” Jason’s bravado crumbled; he flopped back against Ilay’s chest, a faint smile soften…