[for Natasha]

[manwithoutfear]

I keep an ear to the ground, though my hearing isn't what it used to be. Rumors spread like wildfire wherever there are voices to speak them and people to listen, and Tabula Rasa is no different. For the most part, the information is both trivial and of little interest to me, but then there are the times where I hear the whisper of the word Rapture, and I go running towards it like the moth to the flame.

I would know the path to Natasha's place in my sleep, but I keep up appearances for eyes other than mine, making use of the cane even after all this time though the terrain renders it impractical. I've been the subject of too many rumors myself to not know any better. (I haven't been as careful as I could be, even here. Call it living up to a name I'd rather most here never hear.)

Heading up to her door, I do her a favor that few in our community possess the courtesy to perform.

I knock and wait for her to answer.

Comments

[widowskiss.livejournal.com]

"Yes," Natalia says, nodding absently. Matt will be the first to say he is not helpless, and while he may not prowl as he used to, Natalia will always believe his charm to be among his greatest resources. If anyone could get answers...

She looks at the wall, staring in the direction of James and Jason's hut. James doesn't need any extra guard on the hut, nor would he welcome it, no matter how it might help her to rest easier. "I don't know what else to ask, Matt."

[manwithoutfear]

"Then let me do the asking," I say, using the length of her arm to find hold of her hand with mine.

"Take a break. Rest. For real, this time. I'll find out where he's living."

And maybe have a word or five with James.

[widowskiss.livejournal.com]

At times Natalia wonders if Matt does not receive as much comfort as he means to give, but it does not matter. Despite her lingering desires to follow Batman, the comfort is welcome.

"Every man in my life is this stubborn," she says, but her voice is fond when she reaches, pressing her palm to his cheek. "It is a curse."

[manwithoutfear]

"Or a blessing," I offer, wryness slipping into my tone. She's no less stubborn herself, but I have the sense not to tell her that; it's not like she doesn't already know.