Suddenly!

[simplememes]

suddenly married

Comment with your character. Others respond. The two of you are married. This is your life, now. No rhyme. No reason. No take-backs. You have to figure out what to do next. What the move? Cry? Live a happy life? Murder your new ball and chain? Drown them in a river with a ball and chain bolted around their ankles? Do what you gotta do.

Comments

[deadbirdarising]

[It was that fact that let Jason soothe the hackles that had rose when Edward had started taunting him with his friendship with the other alpha. They were friends, but they weren't close. Even if his mate had turned to the other man for relief during his heats, Oswald couldn't offer the one thing that Jason could: His attention. Oswald was a lot of things that Edward no doubt respected, but he wasn't a romantic. And as much as Edward would scoff at the idea that he wanted anything like that, Jason was willing to bet that the man's ego could be won over by it.

Of course, Edward had also been disregarding and even outright crushing the blooms that he'd been leaving in offering, so...who knew. He could very well be wrong. He could be wrong about all of it. But he had to at least try. He'd never forgive himself if he didn't at least put in the effort to try and win over the man who had been chosen to be his mate.

Glancing up from his salad, Jason offered the smallest of smirks before spearing a crumble of feta with his fork and popping it into his mouth.]

I think you've been paying just enough attention to be able to ignore me. What I do has nothing to keep your interest, save for maybe the fact that I am going to kill the clown and the Bat. Preferably together since they're already so far up each other's asses, but I'll settle for whatever I can get.

[While Edward scanned over the playbill, Jason took a few sips of his wine, leaning back in his seat to let those pale eyes roam over the crowd before coming back to settle on his mate.]

Anyone who gets a chance to take you out on a date should put in this much effort. I mean, I've never dated and I still know that much.

[ainissesthai]

[When Edward was young, he'd entertained ideas of romance. Idle flights of fantasy over what it would be like to be the centre of someone's world and, yes, even to have a mate. One that didn't see him as only good for spitting out pups as his father had said he was. Utter foolishness that he'd discarded long before being dragged into that room to await the arrival of his chosen mate. Now, he had better fantasies to pursue. He would have thought the same was true of Jason, but it seemed that dying hadn't been enough to wipe away the idea that they could manage to be more than coldly tolerant of each other.

At least Edward could grudgingly admit that, based on the night so far, humouring Jason until the alpha came to that realization wouldn't be entirely terrible.

He wanted to be more annoyed by that smirk as he picked over his first course as well. But he couldn't hide the flash of interest at the younger man's goal. Jason had the right of that; it would be worth seeing if the former Robin were capable of doing what so many had tried and failed to do. He did have a distinct advantage over others who'd sought to kill the Bat; would it be enough? Unlikely, the man was as difficult to eliminate as an infestation of bedbugs, but it would be worth seeing how things played out. And not having to listen to the Joker's inane rambling in Arkham ever again would be a relief. If Jason could pull it off.]

You won't have any trouble getting them together. What happens after that? Well, that's a different puzzle. [Glancing at Jason, he frowned, pointing at the alpha with his fork.] I'm not interested in you getting yourself killed again, however. And if you do, I'll be personally ensuring there's no body left to resurrect a second time.

[He wasn't going through all of that again; the first time had been bad enough when Jason was halfway around the world. It could only be worse if they were in the same city when Jason died. Edward turned back to his salad and the playbill, only looking at Jason again when the younger man spoke again.]

Never? [He paused to consider the revelation, but it added up. Jason had barely presented when they bonded, and while he could theoretically have dated before then, given what Edward knew of his history, it wasn't actually surprising that he hadn't before dying. And it was perfectly clear that since coming back, making up on missed experiences wasn't high on Jason's list of priorities. Which made it all the more baffling that the alpha would choose to do so now.] No previous dates; what other areas have you been abstaining in? If you're hoping to tick off a number of firsts in one go, you'll need to look elsewhere.

[deadbirdarising]

[If Edward was expecting Jason to fumble at the mention of his death or the possible outcome of it happening again, the older man would be sorely disappointed. In fact, Edward sniped at his death and promising to get rid of his body and Jason was startled. Not by the calloused words or thinly veiled threat, but by the snorted laugh that erupted from him at the promise.]

Ha! Oh...Oh, fuck, that's good. I needed that. Seriously, though, please. I die again, burn everything and then salt the fucking ground for good measure.

[He was still chuckling a little as he took another bite, humor in his eyes as he chewed.]

As for plans...nah. I'm not even bothering with that anymore. I tried it your way and B did his stupid Hail Mary bullshit and I'm done with the whole 'bleeding out on the floor while waiting to be blown up' thing. I'm just gunna shoot the fucker in the head. Same with the clown. No more theatrics. No more big plans. Just bodies on the floor.

[The waiter who'd been coming up to refill their wine and check on them stumbled on the little step up onto their dais and Jason smirked as he watched the kid fumble.]

'Abstaining' makes it sound like I've been actively avoiding things. I've been busy, that's all. And really, you're a little late for that particular statement. Tonight is all kinds of firsts. First date, first time I'm letting someone else drive my car, first time I've gotten to know what your real scent is.

[He didn't glance up from where he was putting together the perfect bite. Didn't make it a big, wide eyed declaration or pay it any extra attention. A simple statement and the understanding that came with it.

Edward had always been abrasive to the nose because he'd never been comfortable enough to be relaxed.]

Even if I crash and burn with the show, it's been a good night.

[ainissesthai]

[Blinking in surprise at Jason, Edward frowned, irritated by the idea the vigilante wasn't taking him seriously. Or, more likely, was overconfident in his ability to survive the Bat and the Joker. Confidence that wasn't entirely unjustified, given Jason had already achieved the seemingly impossible once. But it was annoying that if it came to that, he wouldn't get the satisfaction of proving how serious he was to the vigilante. His frown grew as Jason went on, and he scoffed.]

No one else is capable of doing things 'my way'. [He didn't have to see Jason's plans to know they couldn't compare to his own... Even if they still ended in similar ways, only instead of a cell in Arkham, it was the Joker almost killing Jason again. The clown really was useless.] And you know for a fact that others have tried that approach plenty of times before you. But, by all means, try it. Whether you're dead or imprisoned, it's the same to me.

[Edward tutted at the waiter's fumble - one would think living and working in Gotham would numb them to such talk. A little murder was far less noteworthy than the entire city being gassed with fear toxin or every screen being taken over for a game of riddles. He took his refilled wine glass and dismissed them curtly, still frowning at Jason.]

Not so busy. [Jason had still found time to stop by the penthouse and Arkham and leave his reminders. Edward stilled, looking into his wine at the list of firsts, scent spiking with irritation. It didn't matter that Jason had recognised the difference in his scent, except that it showed he'd let his guard down. It wasn't even worth commenting on except that Jason had, and it felt like the vigilante had managed to slip in closer than he'd wanted. Rather than admit Jason had managed to put him at ease even briefly, Edward turned his attention pointedly to finishing his salad.] You have an odd definition of 'good'.

[More importantly-] I'm still test-driving the car if that assessment changes. Since it's one of your firsts for the night, I wouldn't want to deprive you if it means that much to you.

[deadbirdarising]

[That first pungent overlay of ozone over warm rain made the mirth from Jason's eyes blink away, replaced instead with confusion. What had he done? They'd been talking, Edward had relaxed. Had enjoyed the puzzle box and had looked at the scribbled on playbill with at least a little bit of interest. He'd been doing well, he'd thought.

And then it was like a wall had slammed shut in the other man and Jason was left to stand outside of it once again, holding his hat in his hands.

Edward tucked into his salad and Jason did the same, though the enjoyment of before was lost. He ate it because he couldn't stand to waste food, not because he actually had the urge to eat it.]

I didn't mean- [He cut himself off, shaking his head a little as he turned his gaze back down to his plate.] I wasn't saying that it would be easy or that I'd just stroll up and pull it off. Obviously, it's going to be hard and is going to take planning. I just meant that I wasn't going to try for something so elaborate or public again.

[His plan had been a good one. Putting pressure on Sionis was something he was already doing, so using that to not only take territory but force Sionis to break Joker out just made sense. Baiting Bruce into chasing him was easy and leaving the breadcrumbs for the Detective was just as easy. Even capturing Joker hadn't been all that hard.

There had been so many points in his plan when he could have just...

He frowned down at his plate, setting his fork down and reaching for his water instead of the wine.]

I think my definition of 'good' is just fine. There was a second there you seemed to not hate being here. That's pretty damned good, considering.

[Setting aside his water glass, he managed a small, dry chuckle.]

Yeah, you can drive the car. If you want, we can just skip the show and you can drive. I'm not trying to hold you hostage, Edward. If you really don't want to give me a shot, I'm not going to hold a gun to your head. Let's just...get through the meal, okay? Let me at least do this for you.

[ainissesthai]

[Glancing back at Jason coolly, Edward shrugged at the explanation. Every one of them that got sent to Arkham had had good plans that had failed in the past. Batman had a frustrating amount of luck and a willingness to cheat, which meant none had succeeded so far, and he didn't think for a moment that Red Hood would succeed where Edward himself hadn't.]

Maybe you will be getting that invite to the Iceberg after all.

[Both approaches would fit right in with the rogues who met up there; all Jason needed was to be sent to Arkham a few times. If even Bruce would go that far. Once, he would have said there was no chance, but now Edward was less confident in that assertion.

As for his feelings on the date, he couldn't admit that not hating it was the problem. He wanted to keep hating Jason. It wouldn't change the bond between them, but it was easier to keep blaming the young alpha for its existence than to accept that Jason had no more chosen it than Edward himself, and they were equally trapped. That resentment had been stewing a long time, and while Bruce deserved the bulk of it, the man was, again, frustratingly adept at cheating his way out of Edward's traps. If Jason was going to present himself as a target instead, he shouldn't be surprised to bear the brunt of it.

(And there was a part of Edward that still remembered his parents screaming and blaming each other for him, how they said he'd ruined their lives. He wasn't ready to hear that again. Better to make Jason see they should avoid each other and pretend the bond didn't exist as quickly as possible.)

Despite all that, his frown grew at Jason's offer, eyes drawn to the playbill and his undeniable curiosity over what his mate had planned for the show. It would be easy to take the out that had been offered, but the idea sat poorly with him. Rather than examine the whys, he shook his head and pushed aside his empty plate, sitting back haughtily.]

You won the right to try and win me over fairly. [As much as that galled him to admit, the run had been a fair challenge.] I follow the rules, and I won't deny you your payment. You'll see I was right all along in time.

[He'd already managed to make Jason unhappy with how the night was going; by the end of it, he was sure the alpha would be completely done with the idea of them having any kind of relationship and ready to put it all behind them.]

And I want to see what puzzle you've put together. It won't pose a challenge, but I'll see you've managed to come up with something that's not completely obvious. [Whether or not it had been Jason's intention, keeping the puzzle till later was a smart move. Edward couldn't just ignore it, like any puzzle, he had to solve it once he knew it was there.] After, you can tell me if you want to keep trying.

[His tone made it clear he already knew what the answer would be. But he'd at least have a good meal and some entertainment first.]

[deadbirdarising]

[He was quiet for a moment, finishing off his salad and taking a sip of his wine before he was reaching over to stack his plate with Edward's. The waiter looked a little surprised when he came back up with their next course, murmuring a small 'thank you' as he collected their previous plates to take them back to the kitchen. It wasn't surprising, really. This wasn't the kind of place that served the kind of people who cared about making someone's job easier.

Jason, for all his sharp edges and quick trigger finger, was the exception to the rule of the usual cliental. It's what set him apart from thugs like Maroni and Falcone. Roman Sionis, who probably would have assaulted at least one waitstaff already. Jason wasn't polite or even particularly nice to most people, but he was, if nothing else, good.

Once the waiter had left them back to their privacy, Jason finally flicked his gaze back up to the omega who sat across from him.]

You seem pretty hellbent on the fact that I'm going to hate you, which is strange because I didn't even hate you back then. But fine, let's say you're right. Let's say that I'm going to somehow change my mind after all these years and I leave.

Isn't that exactly what you were trying to get me to do? So what's the difference between me leaving then or me leaving after taking you out on the town for a few months? Either way, you get your wish and at least this way you get a few good meals and some entertainment out of it, right? A win-win for you.

But, I gotta ask. What if you're wrong? What if I never get tired of standing outside your window with a boombox and roses? Would it really be so bad, having someone care about you? Someone who puts in effort and tries to make the daily mundanity a little less boring for that brilliant brain of yours?

[He pointedly wasn't looking at the other man, trying to not make him feel pressured or pinned by his words. Instead, he selected a bite and popped it into his mouth, breaking his own somberness with a soft groan.]

You should tell Oswald that he was right. This is pretty damned good.

[ainissesthai]

[Jason set himself apart from Edward too. Edward wasn't interested in making anyone's job easier. If Sionis were present and beating a member of the waitstaff in front of him, he'd be annoyed by the disruption and the man's brutish nature as ever, but nothing else. If the Joker were to show up to kill everyone there, it would be an annoying inconvenience and little more. He thought that would matter more to Jason than it seemingly did.

Frowning at Jason, he had to acknowledge that during their brief time spent living together, there had been no hint that the alpha bore him any ill will. Jason hadn't even gotten frustrated at Edward's endless resentment and his snarling and disparaging remarks that had littered every conversation. Even disregarding the bond, it would have been easy for the then-Robin to silence him; he'd never been a match for any of them physically without the element of surprise. With the bond, there had been any number of ways Jason could have made the situation easier for himself. It made as little sense now as it had then.

Scoffing, Edward waved a hand at their surroundings.] You should be grateful that I'm trying to save both our time. You were just talking about your other goals; I'd think those would take priority. But if you want to carry on, I'll humour you.

[As Jason had pointed out, he could at least enjoy the nights out. Although there was a lingering concern at the back of his mind that Jason might become less accommodating over time and decide to take a more 'hands-on' approach. It seemed unlikely, given the alpha had been, for the most part, maintaining his distance before Edward decided to engage him, but knowing so little of the man Jason had grown into, anything was possible.

For example, the ridiculous question.

Taking a bite as well, he tilted his head, watching Jason closely.] I'll pass along the compliment. I'll have plenty of opportunities; I'm not cutting contact with any of my associates. Even if we were to prove compatible somehow. I'm not changing what I do or how or with whom. Will you really feel the same when I bring this city down on people's heads because they're too stupid to think their way out of the simplest challenge? When I agree to help Scarecrow build a means to spread his toxin across Gotham?

...If the Joker has an interesting enough proposal to be worth putting up with him? [Pointing his fork at Jason, he smirked.] Will you still put in the effort then? Will we still be mates, or will you be tossing aside those romantic ideas in favour of simple brute force?

[Turning back to his second course, he made a show of considering his next bite before speaking.] You can accuse me of having already made up my mind about this, but you've barely even thought about what you're after. Maybe the brain damage is less repaired than you thought.

[deadbirdarising]

[The difference was intent. Roman beat people to make himself feel better. Joker murdered because he could and because he could get away with it. Maroni and Falcone used people like poker chips. Edward could be vindictive and was very much narcissistic, but he wasn't intentionally cruel unless provoked. Edward wouldn't give the stray dog on the street his scraps like Jason would, but he wouldn't go out of his way to kick it, either.

Usually. There were, of course, exceptions to all rules. Exceptions to expectations, as well.

For instance, Edward watching for Jason to blow up. Get pissed and jealous and act like a complete knothead. And, for a moment, it looked like it might happen, but then the younger man simply arched a brow and took a careful sip of his water. The anger was there, in the line of his jaw and the crispness of his words, but he didn't let it control him. Not like he had when he'd first gotten back to Gotham.]

You will have plenty of opportunities. I never expected you to cut ties with your friends, Edward. I never expected you to stop being you or stop doing what you enjoy doing. To ask that would be to change you and you are interesting just as you are.

Did you really think that I'd put these people [He gestured out at the rest of the diners with his fork, more then a few of them looking uneasy.] over you? That I care about these silver spoon sucking parasites? Most of the people in this city can burn for all I care. And the ones that are worth a damn, you wouldn't bother with anyway because they have nothing to offer you. So go, have your fun. Torch the city. Don't aim specifically at the Bowery or kids and I couldn't care less what you do.

With two exceptions.

You work with the clown and I'll use your shoulder as a muzzle rest for my rifle, don't think for a moment that I won't. I'll splatter the inside of his skull all over that very fine new suit of yours in a heartbeat. I'll buy you a new one, though.

I've put plenty of thought into things, Edward Nygma. Don't for a moment let who I used to be color who I am now. That naive kid is dead. I'm a whole new breed of monster.

[ainissesthai]

[It would go poorly for him if Jason did blow up, but Edward still frowned, irritated when his barbs failed to provoke a reaction. At least, at first.

His frustration faded as Jason went on, glancing at the uneasy faces around them before returning his attention to the alpha. His eyes went wide at the image of Jason looming behind him, aiming over his shoulder to finally silence the Joker's irritating laughter, growling in his ear as the pale body hit the ground in a spray of blood. It felt like a current ran down his spine, forcing him straight, the harsh note of irritation washing out of his scent, replaced by a thread of interest he couldn't suppress.]

...That remains to be seen. [The retort lacked any real weight with the way he stared at Jason, reassessing the alpha after that little speech. It was one thing to take revenge on Batman and the Joker or to kill petty thugs but for Jason to have completely thrown away any concern for most of the average Gotham citizenry? That was something that he'd have to test. Forcing a nonchalant air, Edward shrugged and returned to his meal.] Since you claim to have put so much thought into it, I'll give you a chance to prove you're more than talk.

[Including seeing how Jason handled Edward involving himself in the vigilante's business when he went to see Harvey. And possibly helped Dent with his problem. That remained to be seen, but Edward wasn't above working against the alpha to see how Jason took it.]

But tell me, where do you see this ending? Let's say you're right. You convince me we're compatible as mates, so what? We carry on with our separate lives, but with nights out like this as we're a pair of teenagers? You move back into my penthouse? Or drag me down to live with you like I'm your own Harley Quinn?

[There were acceptable options in there, but he wanted to hear what Jason intended. The alpha was so insistent that Edward no longer knew him; he could elaborate on what he hoped to achieve with his efforts.]

[deadbirdarising]

[It sparked something low in the alpha's belly as understanding dawned in those vibrantly green eyes of the omega sitting across from him. As the older man flicked his gaze to the herd of nobodies that were mulling below them, then back to him as it finally clicked that he was not the same doe eyed creature that he'd been before. That sharp scent faded, overwhelmed by something warmer but just as dangerous and Jason didn't bother to hide the dark curiosity in his eyes as his own scent shifted to match.]

I look forward to the opportunity. [His voice was a low rumble; not with sex, but with promise. A promise to fight for that chance, to use every weapon at his disposal to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was genuine. He'd weather the tests that would come, or he'd be crushed by them.

Even if it meant Edward priming his adversaries against him. Dent would be annoying...but if Edward went to Sionis or the clown, he'd have to find a way to discourage the activity. He wouldn't hurt his mate, he'd promised that and had done his best to prove his intentions, but there were other options at his disposal. Besides, it would only become an issue if Edward pushed that particular envelope in just the wrong way.

Arching a brow at the question, Jason took a bite of his food to give himself a moment to think.]

You're no Harley, Edward. The day someone makes that mistake is the day they find themselves with your cane sprouting from their guts. Just because we're mated doesn't mean you aren't your own man. There's no reason we have to live in each other's pockets. You said it yourself, you won't be giving me a pup and neither of our work is exactly conducive to being parents. I think having separate homes, at least to start off with, would be just fine.

That said, I do hope to be welcomed into your home. One day. When I've earned it.

[And if he smiled around his next bite, well...who was to blame him?]

[ainissesthai]

Hm. Good. [Edward still wasn't convinced it wouldn't be a waste of time, but at least Jason was appreciative that Edward was giving him the chance to try. And, as the alpha had said, he could find something to enjoy in the attempt regardless of how it ended.

The shift in Jason's scent for one thing. His nostrils flared, breathing it in thoughtfully. Accompanied by the low promise of the alpha's voice, it was... interesting. There might be potential there - if Jason really was determined to bear whatever Edward threw at him. Edward would need to test the alpha, after all, to ensure Jason understood what he'd be getting if he was serious. How far that testing would go remained to be seen. Edward wasn't above working with the Joker if the clown managed to catch his interest with an idea. It had happened before and he couldn't deny being tempted to force Jason to prove how far the alpha was willing to go and if that claimed refusal to harm him would last. It was the same mix of curiosity and confidence that, at times, led to him taunting Bruce in ways he knew would provoke the man beyond their usual games.

There were other options too, other ways to push Jason's limits, particularly if Edward decided to commit himself to driving the alpha away. Which he should still be planning to do.

But, as Jason outlined his expectations for what the future might look like, Edward found himself considering them. He was undeniably relieved that Jason didn't have Bruce's constant need for a pup at his heels. So long as he never found out about the Gotham family with their adopted daughter that Edward monitored, they could leave it at that. As for sharing the penthouse again?]

If you can. But it will still be mine. [Unless Jason Todd was legally resurrected, he had no claim to the place, and Edward would keep it that way. Pointing his fork at Jason, he smirked challengingly.] You've made your case. Now show me what you can do.

[deadbirdarising]

It was always yours. You just let me sleep on the couch for a few months.

[True, it had been in his name for those few months, but Jason had never pushed for anything in it. He'd let Edward design the whole space from the moment they'd been given the keys. All he'd ever asked was for a bookshelf and a comfortable couch. That had been before he'd started being interested in culinary skills, so even the kitchen had been left to his mate's design.

The waiter came to trade out their plates and Jason hummed approvingly before making a gesture at the puzzle box that was sat off to one side. The whole point of a first date was to get to know a potential partner, so the sooner he could nudge the conversation off their past and somewhere a little less volatile, the better.]

Would you be willing to explain it to me? I understand the big picture, but the designer didn't go into details.

[Dinner passed pleasantly enough after that, the food fantastic and Edward's obvious enjoyment of explaining the puzzle box made keeping the conversation going easy. He asked questions and did a few sketches on a paper napkin with a borrowed pen. He actually followed the discussion, didn't just get Edward talking so that he could check out of the conversation. Dessert came almost as a surprise and Jason glanced at his watch before letting them linger on the rich concoction.

He got the door both leaving the restaurant and arriving at the theater, a hand lightly resting at the small of Edward's back so that he didn't lose the omega in the people queuing for tickets. A queue that they bypassed completely, Jason tapping a few buttons on his phone before the usher was letting them in and guiding them upstairs to a private booth. The show was sold out below, but the two extra seats in their booth remained empty. The show itself was something modern and complicated, the story interweaving into itself almost as much as the cipher that would eventually be picked apart and rewoven in proper order by a clever mind and an attention to detail.

Do you dance, Mr. Darcy?

A silly way to ask for another date, perhaps, but Edward should at least be aware of his not so well hidden nerdiness. And showing that bit of himself did absolutely nothing to keep him from offering his arm as he held back the curtain for his mate.]

Still feeling up to that drive?

[ainissesthai]

[It was surprising how smoothly the rest of the dinner went. Edward had expected Jason's question to be intended as a distraction or a means to try and show him up. When he realised the alpha was listening to him intently and asking intelligent questions, he slowly grew more excited, talking eagerly about the mechanisms and his own designs for puzzles and peppering the discussion with riddles to challenge Jason.

He was caught off-guard when it was time to leave, and there was another flare of irritation as Edward realised how readily Jason had slipped past the resentment that was no longer simmering quite so close to the surface. It couldn't last when presented with a production that was actually interesting and not some mindless drivel, even before he took Jason's cipher into consideration. He glanced over at the alpha in amusement when he solved it, despite himself remembering an awkward teenager curled up on the couch in the penthouse, seemingly lost in the book his nose was buried in.

Not yet giving an answer to the question, Edward considered the offered arm before taking it and letting Jason lead them back out of the theatre.] You thought I'd have changed my mind? The night is young- [For people like them anyway.] And I still intend on seeing if you're as mechanically skilled as you think you are. I already know where you can't hope to compare.

[As they approached the car, he released Jason and pulled out his phone, pulling up the familiar programs he used to highjack signals and systems. Even if Jason could compare to him mechanically - which he obviously couldn't - when it came to software and security, Oracle was the only one of the vigilantes that could come close to Edward's brilliance. It would be a valuable warning to Jason if Edward could bypass the security and access the car's system. If he could get access and wouldn't be forced to grudgingly admit it would require a little more effort than he'd come prepared for.]

[deadbirdarising]

The night is young. I was only asking to make sure that you weren't so desperate to be rid of me.

[His smile was evident in his voice and in the easy motion of his body as he escorted the man through the parking garage. He had originally planned on using the valet at the theater as well as the restaurant, but then he'd offered to let Edward take her for a drive. Which, for the Riddler, meant that Edward was going to do his damnedest to unravel any of her secrets.

He was proven right as soon as they got close and Edward pulled out his phone, but Jason didn't mind. The level they were parked on was reserved and well lit, the chances of them being accosted were low. He knew that his security wouldn't last under the onslaught....but he was proud that it held up as long as it did. He'd even had time to come up behind the man, not to try and interfere but to tuck his nose into the dip of his omega's neck so he could simply inhale his scent.

Too intimate for a first date? Probably. But they'd been mated for almost ten years, surely that had to count for something. Especially because in those nine years, Jason had never gotten to actually scent the omega. It started up a rumble in his chest, but he was polite and kept his hands to himself.

Besides, he only got to savor that delicious scent for a few minutes before there was a small chirp of the defensive system disarming and Jason chuckled softly into the man's ear.]

Well, we both knew that was inevitable. Here you go, your prize. [He jingled the keys once before passing them off to Edward and stepping over to open the driver's side door with a flourish.

Though, try as he might, the engine didn't actually turn over until Jason was in the passenger seat.]

So, where are we going, beautiful?

[ainissesthai]

[Edward tensed when Jason drew close, senses keyed in to the presence of the alpha standing right behind him. He was too intent on the car's security to react to the scenting, a fact that wasn't as bothersome as he wanted it to be. Not when hearing Jason's pleased rumble had a shiver chasing down his spine, a flash of warmth in his chest at knowing the alpha approved of him.

The chuckle that accompanied the security system's surrender did nothing to dispel the feeling. Yet Edward could only smirk and puff up proudly at Jason's acknowledgement of his skill.] Naturally. You can't make a puzzle I can't solve.

[Catching the keys and slipping into the driver's seat (and adjusting it so he could comfortably reach everything...) Edward tried not to pout at the fact he couldn't even threaten to leave Jason behind.

Sparing a glance for the alpha as he peeled out of the parking garage, Edward tried to keep his scent from revealing how much he enjoyed the compliments, but he'd never been very good at repressing himself like that. He turned his attention back to the road and getting a feel for how the car handled as he weaved through the late-night traffic.] Nothing you need to fret over. Just a drive up to Old Gotham and back. A chance to appreciate the city lights if you care for that sort of thing.

[And a route that would take them close to the Clocktower and the GCPD. It wasn't likely to be enough to get a bat on their tail, but he was curious if Jason had anything connected to their systems that might trigger with proximity. And it was as good a destination as any, if not.] I'm feeling generous, and you can choose some music if you like. As long as it's nothing awful.

[deadbirdarising]

[He was going to end up eating his steering wheel the next time that he got into his car if he forgot to have Edward put the seat back, but it was worth it to see the satisfied look on the older man's face. To have that mellow scent of pleased omega linger in his seats for a few days.

Jason relaxed easily back in the wide bench seat, a genuine smile on his lips as he let himself just watch their surroundings. His city was beautiful at night and with the company at his side, he didn't even bother to try and hide how pleased he was.

Nor did he try to hide the little spike of heat at just how skillfully Edward maneuvered the beast of a car.]

Old Gotham, hmm? Trying to pick up a Bat-shaped tail? [He chuckled, not looking at all concerned.] We won't show up on their radar, but if you keep milking the accelerator like that and you're going to get to play with GCPD for speeding.

[Why did he sound a little rumbly at that prospect?

Leaning forward, he tapped the center console and cycled through a few screens before something not that fair off from what would be playing at the Lounge came from his speakers.]

How's this? I don't know what your tastes are yet, but if you hated this you'd no doubt be quick to make Cobblepot change it.

[ainissesthai]

[Given how they'd started - not just the evening but being mated in the first place - it was surprisingly easy to relax into the moment. Edward's attention was on the cars around them and how well Jason's restored classic handled, responsive despite its size. The pleased alpha at his side was surprisingly a not-unwelcome presence, a feeling that only grew when he caught that hint of heat, stirring a satisfied flare of excitement in him. He always wanted so badly to be seen and appreciated for what he could do, and while driving wasn't the most intellectually challenging task, it still fed that need to have Jason's appreciation.

It was something that meant more every time he was reminded that the alpha wasn't an idiot, either. His uncertain feelings towards Jason were less important than that recognition from someone he could admit deserved some respect.] Let the GCPD try and throw their weight around if they're that foolish. Outmanoeuvring them is no challenge unless you're worried they'll call in that Bat tail.

[He smirked at Jason, and the rumble of the car increased as they picked up speed, practically demanding the GCPD come after them soon.

The music was met with a considering pause before Edward nodded.] It's acceptable. But you're not always going to have an easy guide to help you identify what I'll enjoy.

[Although Jason was doing just fine there so far. The admission wasn't even that begrudging; Edward was enjoying himself more than he would admit. And the flashing lights and blare of a siren behind them could only help there. Scoffing at the display, he spared Jason another glance before putting his foot down to really put the car to the test.]

[deadbirdarising]

Oh, I'm not worried about a tail, Bat shaped or otherwise.

[He sounded relaxed, confident in his car and her current driver. Enough so that even when the lights and sirens started, he only chuckled and used his side mirror to get a peek at their company. So far, it was only a single squad black and white. It didn't stand a chance.

He'd wait until they had more interesting friends to let Edward in on his baby's secrets.]

Acceptable, but not something you'd pick for yourself, hmm?

[It was like the cop behind them wasn't there at all. He shifted in his seat, his focus entirely on the man behind the wheel.]

I'm not. I know that. Nothing about you is 'easy', Edward Nygma. You're an impossible man, a brilliant genius with more layers and folds and hidden secrets than the puzzle boxes you love so much. To know you is a lesson in patience and focus and thinking in ways that would leave most in the dust.

[He leaned forward, reaching out to oh so lightly tuck a stray strand of hair behind his mate's ear with a fingertip.]

I want to know you. I want to open you up and find all the little hidden things inside. I want to know your favorite meals, your favorite textures. I want to know your music and your books. And if it takes me a lifetime to learn it, so be it. But for tonight...'acceptable' is acceptable. It gives me a place to start.

[Behind them, another siren joined the first and Jason's grin widened.]

[ainissesthai]

[A single GCPD squad car didn't warrant concern from either of them. If Edward were ever caught so easily, he'd never live it down in Arkham, so it was a good thing he had enough confidence in his ability and, to a lesser extent, Jason's work to share that confidence.

Shrugging carelessly as they sped away from Old Gotham and towards the river, he glanced over at Jason again.] That depends on what I'm working on.

[His attention remained split between the road and the alpha as Jason went on. His eyes widened as the young alpha once again claimed to be willing and determined to put in the work to make Edward see him and to know him like mates were supposed to-

Cursing under his breath, Edward jerked the wheel, narrowly avoiding another car in his distraction. Snapping his attention back to the road, he allowed himself to consider the night so far. He found himself reluctantly accepting that Jason meant every word and every insistence. It was still hard to believe that the alpha would want to know him that well and to try and make being mates work... But he couldn't deny that it was the truth any more. How long that sentiment would last was another question, but Edward had already decided to enjoy himself while he could and let Jason handle the consequences.

Huffing, he glanced up at the two patrol cars in the rearview mirror and over at the alpha again, taking in that grin.] You've made a start. I'll tell you how good of one it is when I get back to the penthouse. Since you're so determined to persist, we'll make a game of it. I'll give you a prize every time you manage to impress me - if you can answer a riddle to claim it.

[Which answered the question from Jason's cipher sooner than he'd intended but his smirk as they picked up another squad car whilst speeding towards the bridge ahead - a good place to block the road and be caught if one wasn't prepared - and the excitement lighting his eyes no doubt had already suggested his answer.]

[deadbirdarising]

[Jason arched a brow as he reached out to brace himself against the dashboard at that jerk, but he didn't comment on it. Considering the proximity to when he'd touched the older man, he could guess that it had something to do with his words...but pushing for an answer would only make Edward angry. So, instead, Jason didn't say a damned thing.

He did, however, look a little surprised at the words that followed. He'd expected to have to work much harder for an actual invitation back to the penthouse. Wine and dine and spoil his mate the way he was meant to be spoiled before he'd be allowed back in that space. The prospect wasn't an unwelcome one, however, and the surprised look was easily replaced by a pleased one.]

Well then, let's finish our game with our new friends. Left twice on the console will take you to the 'defense' screen. She's not a work vehicle, she doesn't have any outright weapons, but there's still plenty of tricks up her sleeves. I'd suggest 'blackout' first.

[On the defense screen, Edward would be greeted by a green outline of the car, each door getting it's own percentage along with the front and back windshields. Currently, everything was sitting at a neat '100%'. Under that were four options: Blackout, Decoy, Spikes, and EMP.

If Edward followed Jason's advice and touched the 'blackout' option, several things happened at once. From the outside, the running lights, brake lights, and the headlights blinked out all at once. The gloss on the car's paint job was gone as the pigment thickened and darkened until headlights barely reflected off it's surface at all. Even the windows and windshields seemed to be swallowed by the matte tint, completely enveloping the car in darkness.

On the inside, the windshield flickered to life as a real time HUD screen, the images sharp and defined despite the lack of light. It was a little like being inside a video game cabinet, though no arcade had ever managed to capture the sensation of motion.]

[ainissesthai]

[Allowing Jason into the penthouse would also expose him to Edward's security system and would make it easier to plant a tracker on him that had a chance of escaping notice. Even if Edward ended the night with no desire to chase off the alpha (not impossible, although he'd likely still put on a show), he'd still enjoy reminding Jason of what he was capable of and exactly what response an attempt to break in would be met with.

But that would all necessitate getting rid of their pursuers. Without a Bat involved, it would be little challenge - and that was before Jason directed him to the features he was most eager to see. Edward quickly tapped on the console, his attention split between the screen and the road as he maintained a deliberately casual attitude.] You'll show me your work vehicle another time so I can see how it compares.

[Guaranteeing he'd be seeing Jason at least once more, but he'd already all but stated as much. He was enjoying himself and far too invested in seeing more of Jason's work to pass up the opportunity.

And that was before he took Jason's advice and tapped the suggested blackout mode. He couldn't see the car's exterior but could guess some matching changes occurred out there - something to verify later. Within, Edward gave an approving coo, studying the HUD with visible appreciation. He might have to test Jason with some video games in the future if the vigilante wanted the arcade feel so much.] Not terribly done. Let's see how effective the other features are, hm?

[It was with an eye on Jason and the vigilante's reactions that Edward kept them speeding towards the bridge. There were patrol cars ahead, waiting to cut them off, but with the blackout mode engaged, it was clear the officers waiting weren't even sure if their target was still on approach, the city lights doing a poor job of illuminating the vehicle. It was a shame the car would have limited range with an EMP, but a few quick calculations as to how far it might extend and Edward swerved them closer to the bridge junction box and activate the EMP, knocking out the lights and emergency systems for the entire bridge in a cascade - along with hitting the nearest squad cars, giving them a convenient window to speed through into the darkness.

Turning a smug smirk on Jason, he tipped his head as if bowing to an audience.] So much of Gotham's old infrastructure needs just a little push to collapse. It's just a matter of knowing where to press.

[Even Bruce's efforts couldn't hope to upgrade everything when there were also repairs regularly needed and bigger problems to fix. Leaving convenient openings for anyone smart enough to exploit them.]

[deadbirdarising]

A pretty man like you on the back of my bike? Twist my arm a little harder, why don't you.

[He was teasing, but it really was a very appealing image. His bike was every bit as big as he was, so watching the omega's lithe figure stretch out over it to handle it? He gave his lower lip a sharp bite to keep his scent from spiking too much with the thrum of interest that rolled through him. The coo did not help matters any, though the praise for his design did help to remind his more basic parts of the current situation.

Though, really...Edward didn't need him to be aware of anything. He glanced at the HUD's cameras, calculating and entirely confident in the other man's control of the situation, and when they swerved to hit the junction box with the EMP, Jason couldn't really stop his grin of pride and amusement.]

Mmm. It is something I'm working on, but infrastructure is...tedious. Especially when one has to limit their actions to things that can't be stopped by government or Bats. That control box does control both of these short bridges, though, so we'll have to take Sprang back.

[His tone was easy, nonchalant. A man talking about a quant evening drive with his mate, not a man who was watching his mate thread the space between stalled cars within kissing distance.

Turning a smile towards the older man, Jason stretched his arm out over the back of the bench style seat.]

It's a kinetic recharge so you'll have to do a few laps of the island to be able to short circuit anything in my territory, if that is what's going on in that beautiful brain of yours. I hope not. I'm enjoying our evening and I'd hate to have something as petty as a cheap shot at my part of town bring an end to that.

[ainissesthai]

[Even when teasing, Jason's compliments were frustratingly effective. But then, they were hardly empty; Edward knew that much even before catching a distracting hint of promise in the alpha's scent. It sparked a flare of pleased excitement in return, both at the proof Jason meant it (of course he did, how could he not? but proof was always welcome) and the prospect of seeing that bike and what it could do. Given the tricks in what was essentially Jason's 'normal' car, it promised to be worth the wait.

And rewarding in other ways he wasn't prepared for. The pride in Jason's grin struck him, Edward's smirk turning pleased. He didn't need Jason's approval, but it was another point he enjoyed seeing proof of all the same.]

You're the one who chooses such tedium when there's plenty of fun to be had with things as they are if you care to take the opportunity. [There was so much more Edward could do with access to his own systems, as Jason well knew, and no amount of upgrading would keep him out forever. He waved off the reminder that they'd need to detour on their way back, unconcerned by the prospect.] You were eager for the drive; it's too late to complain about the route now.

[Even a presumed increased police presence when the GCPD also worked out where they'd be crossing the river was nothing to worry over. It would give him another opportunity to test out the other features if they managed to rally in time. But that would depend on the cruisers disappearing behind them managing to alert their fellow officers and someone to remember the connection between the bridges. A big ask for Gotham's Finest.

Sparing Jason a glance out of the corner of his eye, Edward chose not to address the alpha's arm encroaching on his space. It was fine, for now. He offered a thoughtful sound at the possibility of sabotaging Jason, pretending he was thinking about it and not also holding back a purr at the praise.]

That will come down to whether you manage to upset me in the meantime. [And how badly he wanted to test how far he could push Jason before the alpha chose to retaliate. But it was better to keep Jason guessing and test the vigilante another night when he could catch Jason completely by surprise.] You haven't been a complete bore this evening, so if you keep talking like that, then I can be gracious.

[And he was in the mood to test the other functions more than repeat himself. So, as they turned towards the Sprang River and confirmed that, yes, even the GCPD had managed to piece that together and had sent more squad cars to block them, he hit the 'Decoy' command, eyes picking over the HUD to see exactly what happened.]

[deadbirdarising]

[Edward was relaxing into the evening and Jason couldn't be more pleased. That sharp, almost ozone scent had smoothed out to something closer to the much nicer smell of a hard summer rain on sun warmed concrete. It wasn't sweet or delicate or anything else that someone would describe as what an omega's scent should be, but that stereotype had always been stupid to Jason. People smelled how they smelled and he wasn't one to judge. He'd never complained before, after all, when all he knew of his mate's scent was the harsh astringent.

It bothered him a little that it was only now that he was learning that his mate smelled like hot summer rain when he smiled. And maybe with a few hinted traces of a subtle sweetness when he was excited about something. It made him want to set his mouth against the man's neck and taste that scent on his tongue. He didn't, of course, but the thought was there.]

I was going to suggest that you could ask me any questions you have for me since you're being generous enough to allow me to earn the answers to mine, but if 'not being a bore' has allowed me this wonderful peek behind the question mark, perhaps I'll keep my secrets a bit longer.

[He was smirking, settled back in his seat and barely paying any mind to anything but the man who was driving his car. His hand was close enough that stray strands of red brushed his skin and he could feel the goosebumps that prickled over his outstretched arm. For a moment, he was tempted to stretch out his fingers, trail them against the soft strands at the nape of his mate's neck...but then he was pulling his arm back and instead just resting his hand on his leg.

The 'Decoy' command on the console did two things. A small, mostly transparent map flickered up on the HUD on the passenger side, a street view of their location. They were a dark red blip in the center and Edward would have no problem figuring out that the GCPD cars were also indicated with little green blips. The cars in traffic were gray, unimportant and easy over overlook. The second thing that happened was their music stopped, tapping into the police chatter lines without so much as a static hiccup.]

Attention all cruisers, unknown vehicle has been spotted at the corner of-[The operator's voice cut out for a moment and when it came back on, she sounded frazzled.] Reports are coming in to indicate three different locations. [She rattled them off, and if Edward chose to look, there was a small blue indicator light at each location she sent people. The blips weren't stationary, either, all of them moving completely independently of each other. Whatever signal the GCPD was picking up, it was attached to something alive and probably something that would give them a hell of a chase.

Jason chuckled.]

That should keep them occupied for half the night. Good thinking.