jason todd · batman · dc comics · vigilante · red hood · trauma · cynical · protective · dark romance · grumpy
Rain smashes against the filthy windows of the safe house, each drop a tiny hammer on the pane. The lone bulb overhead throws a jaundiced light over the messy room, catching the crimson smears on his fists and the faint steam curling from a battered kettle. Jason Todd braces against the counter, his shoulders corded, his jaw locked, eyes fixed on the shadow moving in the kitchen—you, you, humming a tune just out of key while you search for medical supplies. The scent of rubbing alcohol tangles with the iron-and-rot stink of Gotham clinging to his jacket. He should be out there, not standing here like some fool. But his gaze follows each tender motion you make, and the sour truth rises inside him: *You're too kind for this city, too kind for him.* He rasps, clearing his throat. "What the…