"No."

"C'mon. Stop being such a p-rude."

"What part of 'no' do you not understand?" Sakura glares at the man lying on the bed, wanting to smack the arrogant look right off his face.

"The 'n' and the 'o' parts. Never been a big fan... Whatever. Just scoot your ass over here already. Daddy's tired after his playdate with Jerry." Joker's upper lip curls at the pinkette's apparent repulsion. The clown already knows she despises it when he refers to himself as 'daddy' from a joke he made before.

'Why the hell does he want me to do this of all things? Unbelievable. I wonder…'

Green eyes narrow suspiciously at the large hand patting the mattress, trying to beckon her to come forward. This wasn't what she had in mind when making the decision to visit him… Actually, ninety percent of this encounter has gone very differently than previously imagined. She expected the games and name-calling, but the rest?

'Did he actually want to have sex with me? Or was it all a ploy to get information to use later on? Maybe a mix of both. He's so exhausting… A true pain in the ass.'

Speaking of exhausting, Sakura can't help once again noticing how worn out he looks. Is it because she hasn't healed him recently? Overuse of electroconvulsive therapy? Beatings for misbehavior? Or from lack of sleep and whatever else this bastard manages to get into? She also heard from a little bird about the guards in D-block 'accidentally' dropping his meals on the floor and not replacing them.

'It's screwed up, but I get why they detest him. This jerk's always up to something… Just like right now.'

Does he really just want her to lie down with him while he takes a nap? After what just happened? Or is this another trick? Despite how drained he is, that didn't stop him from trying to push her boundaries… and buttons.

"I guess we'll just have to remedy that. Hmm?"

She's not sure if laying on a mattress together is his idea of 'remedying' it, but that's not nearly enough to get the job done. It's not easy to forgive or forget, even if he's been able to get away with a lot more than others. If another inmate had pulled a tenth of what the clown has done to her, she would've crushed their skull.

'Of all the people I could have a soft spot for, why him?!'

Letting out a needlessly loud sigh, the bed dips as she reluctantly inches closer. It's hard to look at the man stretched out across the sheets after what just occurred only moments ago. The jumpsuit he was so eager to rid himself of earlier is still around his hips, hanging low enough that she can see the smooth grooves of a v-line and thin trail of hair leading far below the fabric of his clothing.

'Can't this bastard cover-up or something? I don't need to see all that.'

Swallowing hard, Sakura tries to compose herself as much as possible to avoid doing anything she might truly regret later. There's nothing wrong with two adults getting carried away and having a little 'fun' but Joker isn't the type who can just do that. Everything can and will be used against her, whether it's an hour, day, week, or even months later.

That's a scary thought.

There's no telling what might happen afterward if they went all the way. He could always be clingier than ever or have the complete opposite reaction. Maybe sex would satiate his curiosity and it'd be time to finally move on to the next project or fixation.

To be honest… she's afraid to find out.

"Aww! Why so huffy, dollface?" The clown cocks a brow as she plants her knees into the mattress, taking a seat right next to him. Dark eyes look up in amusement, and she can practically see the next snarky comment forming in them. "You still mad at me? Even after you got a slap in? Look, my pretty face is still red and throbbing." Long fingers point to the darkening handprint on his cheek she gave him after that embarrassing outburst earlier.

"Like you didn't deserve it." He always does for one reason or another. Granted, it looks like she hit him a little harder than intended. For a regular human, this man has a surprising amount of durability and resilience.

'The most annoying ones are always harder to kill.'

"Maybe I did… but sucks for you since I'm into that shit." With a grin wide enough to show off those horrid teeth, Joker waggles his brows suggestively. If there's one thing she can say about him, he never knows when to quit.

"Figures. You seem to have a penchant for pain." Sakura shakes her head and reaches a hand out towards his face, quickly noticing the way he almost recoils from it. Does he think she's going to strike again? So much for being 'into that shit'.

"Can you just sit still for a moment?!" She doesn't hide her exasperation as he smirks, rolling onto his back and putting some distance between them.

"Not really. Why do you think the docs love pullin' the straps out every time they come to see me?" Joker puts his hands under his head, carefully watching the pinkette moving closer until she's right beside him. "Seeing as you haven't made a beeline for the door yet, I take it you're, ah… staying?

Sakura leaves the question hanging in the air, ignoring the intense stare coming from the man beneath her. There's a simple reason why. She doesn't exactly have an answer for that… And it's pleasing to get on his nerves sometimes. He's impatient, always expecting others to do what they're told, when they're told to.

Reaching down, she sends a steady stream of chakra to her palm and pours it into the harsh print decorating his face. The green glow is nothing special to her, almost like second nature. The novelty wore off many years ago under Tsunade-sama… However, it always seems to fascinate the clown. Those heavy, shadowy lids narrow as he peers down, observing the light for probably the dozenth time. Part of her wonders what he suspects it to be. Even if she says 'chakra', that still wouldn't mean anything to him.

'I could explain it…'

Green eyes glance away at the thought. Despite literally being with someone at this very moment, the pinkette can't help feeling lonely in a strange way. Every time she heals him, it's a reminder that she doesn't belong here. That there's no one from this world that knows of the energy flowing inside her or what she actually is… Nobody to share stories and experiences with that could understand. Even if she wanted to, that would mean having to explain everything from the very beginning. There's also the possibility of not being believed… and written off as insane.

Sometimes, it's tiring to carry such a heavy burden alone. There's no team to look out for one another or have each other's backs. Part of her wants the freedom of being open again. Konoha was the one place she could feel truly comfortable, but that's a pipedream at this point.

"What's with the face?" The gravelly voice from below breaks Sakura's train of thought as she looks down, realizing his face is back to its 'normal' state. It's not like her to zone out while healing someone, let alone this guy.

"Nothing." Shaking it off, the pinkette's hand travels lower, hovering just above his bare chest. There's no point telling him any of this… It'll only lead to insults and more provocation. Even if she actually laid it all out, he'd only see it as an opportunity to gather information.

"Hmm? Liar..." A deep groan spills out once the chakra washes over him, quickly traveling through his body to mend the accumulated strain and abuse since their last session. His eyes flutter close as he relaxes, sinking further into the bed with a heavy sigh. It's a sound of relief, mixed with pleasure from the warm sensations running through him. The kind of noise someone would make after slipping into a hot bath after a strenuous day at work. Despite not saying a word about it, he's probably been hurting for days and has just been sucking it up.

'I'd expect nothing less from a sadomasochist like him. Too proud to ask for help or admit anything… Probably doesn't even think he needs it.'

"There. No mark on your mug and nothing to complain about." The pinkette says in a flat tone, trying not to look at his face. What is she supposed to do now? Maybe it would be best to make a beeline for the door before this gets awkward. Then she can at least clear her turbulent thoughts and sort things out.

"Hey." A hand grabs the sleeve of her jumpsuit the moment she tries to turn away. Green eyes flicker towards the long fingers pulling on the orange fabric before landing on their owner, giving him a murderous glare.

"What do you think you're doing?" Sakura's brow furrows, gently trying to pull her arm away. After all, she just healed him so it would be a waste to break his arm so soon.

"What the hell does it look like? I'm still tired, so lay down with me." His blasé expression and brazen attitude towards the request leave her almost speechless. Any other time, this maniac probably would've pushed her off the bed and cackled or tried wrapping his hands around her throat. What's gotten into him lately?

"You're out of your mind! Do you forget where we are? What this place is? It's not a friggin' hotel. Why should I—"

"Just shaddap already and stop being such a goddamn baby." Joker yanks harshly on her arm, pulling the pinkette back down onto the bed. "If ya didn't wanna be here, ya would've left already. Besides, I know no one's coming around anytime soon. I'm no-t stupid. Whatever fool's doing the rounds ain't coming by for a while."

Sakura's lips purse together as he drags her along the mattress. He's not wrong, and that's the problem. There isn't anyone coming by for at least a few hours. At least, that's what she arranged with Terry… And the guard will do as she says if he knows what's good for him. He's already witnessed that she's able to take the form of other people. That alone should scare him enough into submission. Being on a person's shit-list who can be anyone at any time is not an enviable position.

'Even so, this is a terrible idea.'

It doesn't take a genius to figure that one out. The pinkette knows she's being incredibly stupid… yet doesn't move a muscle, allowing the clown to move her around as he pleases.

'Why am I doing this? Why am I doing this? Why the HELL am I doing this?!'

Despite wanting to bolt towards the door and run down the hall, she can't help the strange feelings coursing through her. This man always has a way of eliciting unwanted emotions, whether they're new or seemingly long forgotten.

As Joker lays down on his side and pulls her against him, Sakura fails miserably trying to calm the rapid beating in her chest. She's on edge yet, thrumming with anticipation. This isn't the same as making out or pinning the other to a wall. There isn't that fierce sexual tension that arises between them from time to time. In a way, this is so much more… intimate. Similar to when he was teaching her how to dance.

"Heheh." A deep chuckle tickles Sakura's ear as the man behind her shifts around to get comfortable. Her cheeks burn fiercely from the hard chest pressing up against her back, knowing only a piece of fabric is keeping their skin from touching.

The pinkette's eyes squeeze shut, trying to quiet down turbulence going on inside. This really isn't much, but for some reason, it excites her. Maybe it's from this being her first time casually laying with another person in years, or the fact that a shirtless man she's attracted to is wrapping himself around her. Perhaps it's the thought of knowing someone could barge in at any given moment and all hell would break loose.

'What's wrong with me…'

This last month has been full of doing things out of the ordinary. Sometimes, it's okay to just go with it.

Sakura lets out a deep breath, allowing her tense muscles to relax. Long legs butt up against her own as the clown settles in behind her, wrapping an arm around her waist, and closing any distance between them.

It wouldn't hurt just to stay like this for a little while. Even if there's an ulterior motive… she can at least pretend for a few hours this is something real.

'His body is so warm. It feels nice.'

Joker's larger frame easily covers her back and some. Shuffling around, he manages to snag a corner of the sheet near the end of the bed, pulling it up enough to cover them halfway before returning to his original position.

"J?" Staring at the furthest wall, she bites her bottom lip with uncertainty. Maybe it's not the right time to ask, even if it's bugging her. Hell, it's doubtful an honest answer will come out, anyway.

"Hmm?" Without being able to see him, she can still imagine his face while replying. Eyes closed and brows raised. Even after being healed, he still seemed tired. The problem isn't always physical. Sometimes it much more than that. He has a tendency to exert every facet with his rampant bullshit, whether it's playing mind games with the guards or self-imposed sleep deprivation.

"Why do you want to do this? I don't get it." She holds in a bated breath, wondering what he'll say. Minutes drag on without a word. The only discernable sounds in the small room are the deep breaths against her hair and the quiet thumping from their chests. Finally, an annoyed groan breaks the silence, letting her know he hasn't drifted off yet.

"Tch. Why is a little spoon so damn noisy?" A pinch on the back of her thigh causes the pinkette to yelp. "Do me a favor, doll… Clam it so I can get some sleep."

"Asshole." Sakura grumbles, wanting to pummel him within an inch of his life. He could've just said that instead of being a bastard and pinching her. What a petulant child…

Different scenarios play out in her head of beating him senseless. Crushing his skull between the thighs he nipped with those dirty nails. Punching him through one of the asylum's flimsy walls. Breaking bones until he cries for mercy, starting with his fingers until there's nothing the medics from this dimension can salvage. Using a chakra scalpel to show the clown his own guts. Turning him inside out… The images put a wicked smile on her face.

'They all sound good and well-deserved. Hmph!'

The soft snoring close to her ear stops all thoughts of retribution. Sakura quietly listens to the heavy breathing and vibrations coming from his chest. They practically reverberate through her own body from being so close. She can even hear the slight rattle from him being a smoker.

'He really just knocked out, huh? Not a single care in the world…'

Part of her wants to gently turn around to look at his face—just to see what kind of expression it has—but knows he's a light sleeper and will wake at the slightest bit of movement. No, it's fine for now. She's seen him snoozing before, yet still can't help wondering if it would be any different this time around.

Joker must've really been tired. To leave himself willingly exposed like this isn't like him, even if it's just with her. He seems like the type of person who sleeps with one eye open and a knife in hand, practically waiting for someone to try getting ballsy. There's not much to be done in an asylum where the staff can leave an inmate vulnerable by strapping them to a gurney, but he had an option…

'I still don't really get it. Why did he insist on this of all things?'

Sakura tries coming up with different answers, even if it's only speculation on her part. Loneliness? Trying to see how much she'll let him get away with? Psychological/emotional manipulation? Some need for physical contact that doesn't involve pissing a guard off until they beat him? She won't really know for certain unless he elaborates, which is very unlikely.

The pinch is proof of that.

There's a good chance he doesn't even know why… And that might lead to more aggression and hostility once this is over. The man has a bad tendency of resorting to violence in moments of conflict within himself. Sometimes, she can even see the progression in his eyes. That split second when he suddenly realizes he's doing something that goes against his nature and rage takes over. That's when the clown is at his most dangerous. There's no planning or thought into his actions—just raw emotions, adrenaline, and the urge to get rid of whatever's making him feel that way.

'It's okay. Just go with the flow and see where this takes you.'

Letting herself relax into the mattress, Sakura peeks down when the arm around her waist tightens. Despite being asleep, he must've felt the slight movement and subconsciously tried to stop it.

A small smile graces her face as she takes in a deep breath. This isn't so bad… If they weren't two inmates in an insane asylum, this might've seemed normal. Just the thought makes her want to chuckle. Two adults basically spooning in bed wouldn't make anyone raise a brow. Add the fact that one blows up buildings, uses greasepaint to look like a clown, and gets a thrill from fighting a grown man wearing a latex bat-costume while the other is a kunoichi from a different dimension…

'Christ. We sure make one hell of a pair.'

Perhaps 'pair' isn't the right term. Is there a word that fits whatever is going on between them? She's not sure what to call this. Rivals? Not really… Enemies? Doesn't seem that way anymore. Buddies? Hell no. Lovers? Nope. Nakama? Pshht.

None of them feel right or capture the essence of their tumultuous relationship. That can wait until later. There's plenty of time for things to go in one direction or the other. Who knows? Anything can literally happen, especially in a place like Arkham.

Reveling in the warmth and rhythmic heartbeat of the man around her, Sakura finds her eyes becoming heavier by the second. Laying here for just a little while won't hurt. It's been years since she's felt so comfortable… And it's in the most unlikely of places.

Someone's being noisy as fuck out in the hallway. More than 'someone'. At least three or four people. What's wrong with these idiots? Can't a man rest without these assholes making so much racket for one night?

The door to the cell opens, lighting up the small area beyond the dim glow from the ceiling. Between that and the voices arguing back and forth, it's enough to rouse the clown from his slumber. He instantly recognizes two of them, yet can't quite place the others. New staff maybe? Or just from a different block?

'What the hell does she want now?'

His lip curls up in annoyance. How many times in a twenty-four-hour period do they need to speak? They just saw each other earlier today. Doesn't she have other patients to tend to? Especially after everything that happened last night?

'Heheh…'

Stretching his arms out, Joker freezes the moment realization sets in. Dark eyes crack open as he feels nothing under his fingertips except for a grimy sheet. Shooting up quickly, he glances in every direction, finding himself alone on the bed.

'She left… She's not here... The witch ran off somewhere…'

"Tch!" Slapping a hand against his face, he drags it up into his hair, brushing the wild mess back. Everything inside is scrambled and discombobulated. Blinking rapidly and shaking his head, the clown tries to get it together for whatever's coming into the cell. Despite that, his mind is somewhere different.

'That bitch just really up and left me.'

Now that he's awake, the anger sets in. The pink-haired vixen really likes to mess with him. One of these days, she's truly going to regret it. Going from a goddamn tease to acting like some puritan old maid… Laying down with him, then running off. He's never met a woman who goes from hot to cold and back so quickly.

Grazing his fingers along the scarred corners of his mouth, bits and pieces of their conversation emerge. That's right. The clown's brow furrows as he tries to go over what happened earlier. What she said… Things the wicked witch probably regrets doing and saying.

'Heh. I still learned quite a bit of useful information. Not a total loss. It'll make for a fun little chat later.'

A few weeks ago, this would've been great material to mess with her. Just to push that pious minx over the edge. Maybe even cause another pane or two of bulletproof glass to be shattered. Hell, instead of two guards getting squashed, it'd be ten or more. That would be a sight for sore eyes.

But…

It doesn't have the same zing now that it would've before.

Ignoring the voices talking in the doorway, the clown falls back against the mattress without a care. They don't matter right now. Glowering up at the ceiling, he can't help feeling like something's crawling under his skin. Probably that foolish woman. A small, teensy piece of him is kind of disappointed and irritated to find the spot next to him empty.

What was he expecting, anyway?

'When did she leave? What the hell was going through that little pink head? How long did she stay? Was it right after I fell asleep? Why?'

So many questions and no answers. Honestly, asking her to lie down with him was more of a joke than anything, especially after being rejected. It was just to see what she'd do or the kind of reaction the request might elicit. He didn't really think it'd actually happen. It was somewhat of a surprise. One that makes his blood boil… Partly because he enjoyed it.

Joker can't recall the last time he slept in a bed with anyone. Being strapped to a gurney with another crazy in proximity is probably the closest to it. That doesn't count. No one comes too close to him, even outside of the asylum. He doesn't blame them. After all, he gives people a perfectly good reason not to.

'That's not like me. I'm acting like some goddamn fool.'

Maybe in another lifetime, the clown used to do things like that. Back when he went by a different name… and was a fucking idiot. Regardless of that, this was still a strange experience.

The pinkette's scent is still fresh in his mind. Probably still on the sheets and pillow as well. The sweet fragrance is a pleasant break from the rank of the asylum. It's the same as the first time he entered the witch's cell… to choke the living hell out of her. Even then, he couldn't deny the aroma wasn't enticing.

There were thoughts on multiple occasions of tearing a chunk of that pink hair out to have as a keepsake. But being able to lie beside her with his nose buried in those soft locks is even better. He's a greedy man at times and would rather have it all instead of a mere morsel. Why settle for less when everything's right at his fingertips?

She's infuriating and so is he. It can't be helped how well they mesh, even when butting heads. Whether it's attempting to murder the other or sleeping together, it just works. Different ends of the same spectrum that clash yet meet somewhere in the middle. Similar but opposite in so many ways.

'Heh. Gotta admit… If she stayed, all hell would break loose in the asylum. Harley might've short-circuited from seeing us in bed together. Can't say I'd be against watching those two duke it out, even though it'd be an easy win for the witch.'

Peering towards the doorway, Harleen's standing there with a few guards. They were arguing, but he couldn't care enough to listen in. There's enough already on his mind. If anything, blondie's on the shit-list for waking him up. That was probably the best sleep he's had in a while and she had to go and ruin it.

'I don't even know how long it lasted. Could've been thirty minutes or the entire night. Whatever. Maybe it's from Sakura healing me—didn't ask for it—but it doesn't even feel like I had a session with loony Jerry earlier.'

Hearing someone clearing their throat, Joker cocks a brow at the woman walking further into the cell. The guards retreat into the hallway, letting the door close behind them. Now it's just him and Harleen, alone in this dingy cell.

That's unusual.

The only time those pigs would leave the doc in a room with him is if there are security cameras watching his every move while they hang right outside the door, ready to barge in at any given moment to beat the living daylights out of him. So, what gives? How was she able to convince them to stay out? Why?

'Dammit. Should've listened in to their little argument. She was probably fighting with them about 'getting some privacy with her patient' or some bullshit. Better be important after waking my ass up.'

"Well, well, well… To what do I owe the pleasure of being gifted more than one visit in the same day, Doc? That is, if this actually is the same day. Who knows? It's hard to tell how much time passes in these cells." Pushing himself up onto his elbow, Joker smirks at Harleen's expression. A single look at the blonde tells him that's she's mad, that she came here intending to let out some steam for whatever reason. The moment he sat up and her eyes land on his bare chest, they widen into saucers, stopping the doctor in her tracks.

'Heh! Just like last time. What a sucker!'

"What's wrong, Har? Cat got your tongue?" Joker tilts his head to the side with an exaggerated pout, not even trying to hold back the derision in his tone. No matter what he gives her, she'll eat it up, anyway.

"C–Cut the crap!" Shaking off the taunts, Harleen quickly gets herself together. She's steeling the resolve necessary for whatever this is about. He can see it in her posture and change in demeanor. Going from angry, to shocked and practically bashful, and now back to trying to prove she's strong and confident. "And I told you, it's Dr. Quinzel!"

'Oh? She brought some spice this time!'

The clown smiles wide, staring at the woman at the foot of the bed. Someone's angry… Did one of the staff members somehow find out his part in the breakout and now she's pissed about looking like a fool after defending him oh so much?

"Care to tell me how this got in my office?" Slipping a hand into the pocket of her white coat, she pulls out a note and holds it out for him to see. Dark eyes squint a little to make it out in the dim light.

'Oh, shit… I forgot I did that.'

"I put it there." His lips curl up into a salacious grin, letting his words drip with all the honey he can muster. It's not a lie. Temporarily forgetting from having other things on his mind doesn't change that. There's still a plan to enact, regardless of any distractions.

"I think the guards would be interested to know you've been out of your cell." Blue eyes narrow on his stretched-out form along the bed, scrutinizing him. He can read between the lines and knows exactly what she's implying.

The items could've only gotten into her office if he'd broken out… And after denying he had any part in the 'riot' and pretended to be sleeping in his cell the entire time, she took his word for it and eagerly went to bat for him. The doctor put her good name and job at risk quite a few times since becoming his psychiatrist, even if it hasn't been long.

"I thought a lady like you would appreciate roses and a heartfelt note after a long day of work. Besides… if you really were going to tell, you already would've." His smirk widens at the startled look on her face. Did she think he wouldn't call her bluff? "And we both know what'll happen if you do. Don't we?"

Harleen swallows hard, staring at the clown wildly. Is she really willing to risk it? If the guards find out, so will the top brass. He'll most likely be subject to more punishment and confinement than ever. Jeremiah will probably take over all his sessions, saying that she can't handle him and allowed herself to be manipulated. All the hard work and progress that went into this last month would be for nothing. She'll be relegated to minor cases with less… interesting inmates.

By the same token, Joker can't be allowed to get away with what he's done. Guards and inmates were killed. If he broke out, there's no way he didn't have a part in the destruction. What kind of doctor would she be to not report it? Is this supposed to be just overlooked in hopes of furthering her career? Then he'll start expecting her to keep doing it. And if she ever does rat on him, he can tell them what she knew about the breakout. That information becomes blackmail… It'll turn into a never-ending cycle, with him always having power over her.

Just watching the panic and confusion painted across the doctor's face is making his blood sing. She's distressed, completely frozen on the spot. Her mind is racing a hundred miles per second and can't decide which option is better… or worse. It really comes down to two options: tell and lose him as a patient or keep quiet and throw her dignity as a respected psychiatrist out the door, becoming something of an accomplice to his antics.

'Don't give her too much time to think about it. She can be useful in some ways.'

"C'mon, Har. We both know the answer." Pushing off the bed and getting to his feet, Joker slithers up towards the shaken woman. When someone's mind is in tatters, the best thing to do is take advantage of the moment. Snatch the fragments and use them to create something new. An image of his choosing. She's getting so close to reaching a breaking point. He can see the anguish in those blue orbs.

There's something deep inside that's trying to get out. What it actually is, is the real question. A person can only hide their true selves beneath a polished exterior for so long before it tries to claw its way to the surface. Everyone has one. He just realized it sooner than most and willingly embraced those demons. Harleen, on the other hand… She just needs a push in the right direction.

"Listen." The doctor looks stunned when his deep voice breaks her from the raging battle going on in her mind. She's slow to react, finally realizing that he's no longer on the bed but mere inches away. "No one has to know. It can be our little secret, 'kay?" He leans down so they're eye-level, brows raised while nodding his head eagerly.

"You're not like the other doctors. We both know tha-t. You actually care about helping patients, while they're just looking out for the next check in the mail. Those schmucks look down on you and can't be bothered with giving you the respect someone of your caliber deserves." Licking his lips, Joker watches in glee at Harleen's conflicted expression, knowing she's hanging on his every word. He needs to keep planting the seeds of doubt in her mind. Time will truly tell if they'll grow or not.

"Jerry, he's in it to fuel his God-complex and to feel morally superior over others. This entire asylum became his through Amadeus, not out of passion. It could've been handed over to someone who genuinely wants to rehabilitate people, instead of a relative from the same family with a long history of mental instability. A man that prefers using Draconian methods to purify the insanity out of them." Grabbing tightly onto Harleen's upper arms, he gives her a little shake to make sure she's paying rapt attention.

"Alyce just does whatever he says out of misplaced loyalty and admiration. Cash… That bastard is still screwed up after what happened with Croc and Jane. He wants nothing more than to take his trauma and personal vendetta out on the patients." Subconsciously, the doctor takes a few steps back towards the door, but he quickly follows, giving her little room or space to think.

"Now let me ask you, Har… Does that sound like the 'good guys' to you? Or maybe they're no better than the animals locked up in these cells, just waiting for their next injection or shock treatment. Who's getting any better in here? Who's getting worse? And where on the totem pole do you belong? You're not getting any brownie points with them, no matter how hard you work or what you do. They're part of the same system that abuses and throws people away. What do you think they'll do to you given that chance?"

"Enough!" Putting her trembling hands against his chest, she tries shoving him back to put some room between them. It's useless. He won't move unless he wants to. "Enough already! I–I know…"

Joker cocks his head to the side, taking in her shaky form trying to catch a breath. She seems almost on the verge of hyperventilating, possibly close to a full-blown panic attack. He takes a step back, giving some space to allow it all to sink in. It'll be a waste of time if none of this works.

Recently, she's been overworked, psychologically exhausted, and confused about her feelings and place in this asylum. Last night was a tipping point to hasten the inevitable for a handful of people. Coming here was a mistake on her part. Not in this condition… She should've known better. It would be a missed opportunity if he didn't take advantage of it.

First things first. Knowing what mental and emotional state the target is in and see how that can be manipulated. In Harleen's case, it's not complicated. Get up close and personal, beginning with standing over her. She's a woman. Making them feel small and vulnerable is a good start. Confuse them. Say something that will cause inner conflict and turmoil. Then get on their level to give a false sense of comfort and understanding. Females like to give the illusion of complexity but are really quite simple once they're broken down into their most basic form.

'You're not like her, so this is a piece of cake.'

"Hey… Hey. Look at me." Reaching out to curl his fingers along her jaw, the clown lifts her chin up to look at him. He switches to an even tone that sounds almost sympathetic, as if he actually sympathizes with what she's going through. At this point, Sakura probably would've slapped him silly after throwing a few verbal grenades. Or at least level with him, knowing damn well what he's up to.

"I know you're perceptive enough to see everything that's going on. You're an intelligent woman. I don't need to tell you that. Even if Jerry and Alyce don't fully recognize it, I do. And losing you as my psychiatrist will be a substantial loss, but you're better than this place and have so much to offer. So, will you allow yourself to be swallowed up by someone else's rules and plans? Or create a path of your own? People are either part of the problem or the solution. No one can stay neutral. Just food for thought!" He says dramatically, giving her chin a little squeeze.

"You talk too much, Mista J… I already know what's going on in this facility. And everyone's made it very clear where I stand. You act like you know so much about me when you don't. I'm not some little girl looking for guidance on how to live my life! I make my own choices and do as I please. I became a gymnast because I love it. I got my Ph.D. because I made it happen. I started working here because I wanted to. I already created a path of my own long ago!" Uncertainty turns into hot anger coursing through her body. It's rare he sees this kind of fire coming to the surface in Harleen, but pushing the right buttons seems to do the trick.

"But… are you happy?" The blood in her face drains from the question. "Are you still doing gymnastics? Is that Ph.D. bringing you joy? Does this job make your blood rush with excitement? Or are you so angry because you know I'm right? Does all that paperwork give you an adrenaline rush? How about going home alone at night and staring up at the ceiling, waiting to fall asleep just so you can start the same day all over again?" The clown smiles like a Cheshire cat at the way her jaw drops in his hand, looking absolutely thunderstruck at his words.

"How… How–" She can barely finish the question, which is how he likes her to be. He'd rather do most of the talking while letting her think this is a two-way conversation. By the reaction his words brought, he must've been right on the money. It was only a guess, not that she needs to know that.

"Because I get people like you. I used to be someone like you." It's a lie but whatever works will do. "Everything accomplished until this point has been mostly what others expect of you. Working hard in school… Getting a degree... A decent-paying job. That's the life society tries to force on us while we're supposed to grin and bear it. 'It'll get better,' they say. That's nothing more than a crock of shit." Joker leans closer, staring into her eyes. "You and I… We have a lot in common. I see something in you they don't. Potential. You have it in spades, my dear." With that, he traces her bottom lip with the pad of his thumb, watching as she suddenly turns into a lovely shade of red.

"Har-leen Quin-zel… Rework it a bit, and you get Harley Quinn." Even in the dim room, the doctor can see the way his face lights up at the nickname. He cackles loudly, causing her to cringe from the raucous noise piercing her ears. That sound… it's been ingrained in her mind for weeks now.

"Like the clown character, Harlequin. I know… I've heard it before." Despite trying to show annoyance, her voice wavers. The clown's too close for comfort, doing things the guards would've beat him to the ground for. Putting hands on a staff member is a big no-no. Unfortunately for them, he's never given a damn about rules. Then again, if she really didn't want it, they would've been called in already.

'Hoo boy… She's flustered as hell, and doesn't know what to do. Not only that, but her face is red as a tomato. Heh. A little more and blondie's a goner. The point of no return shouldn't take too long if I keep this up.'

"Now, that's a name that puts a smile on my face! It makes me feel like there's someone here I can relate to… Someone I can be open with." His hand reaches up, gently caressing her cheek. It's so warm he thinks she must be overheating from the stimulation. Who knows how long it's been since she's had any physical affection? Even if it's fake, it's working. This woman can easily become a pile of mush under his fingertips.

"I should go." The shaky words sound forced, like she's pushing herself to do something… anything.

"Of course." His scarred mouth twists into a wicked grin as he steps back, holding his hand up to show there's no threat. No one's going to stop her if that's what she wants to do. Well, now anyway. He's satisfied with this little meeting.

Without taking her eyes off him, she reaches up to knock on the door for the guards to let her out. The clown does the same, keeping his heavy gaze on her as he strides back towards the bed. Plopping down on the edge, he smirks at the sounds of a guard fumbling with the control box. Those idiots… It would be so easy to kill the doctor before any of them got the damn door open.

But he won't… At least for now, anyway. There's plenty of time later on if he chooses to. First, it'll be entertaining to see what route she takes. If there's nothing more to get out of this, then game over.

"Harley." The blonde frowns at the name. "Remember my no-te." As the guards come in, he laughs wildly, causing the men in the doorway to flinch. They all hate that sound. Finally tearing her gaze off of him, Harleen rushes out of the room, locking him away, back in solitude.

"Ahhh… Heheh!" That was too easy. His bullshit really threw her through a loop. There's no doubt everything he said got under her skin. That's the point. Wearing someone down, opening them up, letting the poison drip from his tongue, and watching it work its way around until everything corrodes. That's his idea of a good time.

Staring across the cell, Joker's eyes narrow in confusion. The walls and door. They look… fuzzy? Like the colors are moving in waves. Blinking a few times and still seeing the same thing, he shakes his head, trying to get it back to normal.

'What the hell's going on?! Was there something in my food? Or am I actually hallucinating this time?'

In a split second, the room's back to its regular appearance, like nothing even happened. He lets out a sigh of relief. Whatever that was, it's gone now.

Noticing the shadow out of the corner of his eye, the clown jumps in his seat when he looks over. Seeing the slim figure almost causes his heart to leap right out of his chest from pure shock.

"Shit!" Dark eyes bug out at the sight of the witch hanging upside down from the corner of the ceiling with her hands clasped together. Just like during the breakout when she ran down the hall and threw a body at him… His gaze flickers from one side to the other in confusion, not knowing what to do in this instant.

"What the fuck?! What the hell are ya doing? How long ya been there?" Rage instantly rises to the surface, ready to boil over. A mix of anger, confusion, and another emotion he despises all come together at once, completely immersing him.

Sakura says nothing as she gracefully jumps down from the ceiling, brushing off some dust that landed on the shoulder of her orange jumpsuit. Her silence is putting him even more on edge, wanting answers right now, even if he already knows them.

Unlike him, she looks the epitome of serenity. Calm, poised, and at peace. It's disturbing. Just watching the pinkette standing there, quietly fixing her clothing and hair, is making him irate. Why isn't she yelling too? Or throwing a punch? At least showing some sort of emotion?

'This is freaking me out…'

Satisfied with her appearance, she finally glances up at him. Those bright green eyes are darker than he's ever seen before. There's a blank expression in them, as if a thick glass wall is separating what's going on inside from the outside. A barrier that only allows others to see what she wants them to and nothing else.

"I got up when I heard people outside the door and used a genjutsu to hide. Figured there was no need to start more trouble." Her gaze trails off to the side, like she can't stand looking at him any longer. "And I was here the entire time. Obviously…"

Joker internally cringes at the bite added to the last word. The moment he saw her in the corner, it should've been apparent she'd been there all along. That was a stupid question.

'This is completely fucked… I'm not sure what to do now.'

"Yeah? Well, why didn't you wake me up? Or at least give me a hint you were still here? Hmm?!". This is all her fault. Why the hell couldn't she give some kind of signal or something? Part of him is infuriated at the pinkette, even if that makes little sense. Gripping the sheet in his fists, he wants nothing more than to curse and lob shit at her.

"Why?" she says softly, glancing down towards the nails on her fingers, suddenly finding interest in them. "So I could miss the show? Or so you can give some watered-down performance? That wouldn't be much fun, now would it? Besides, I got to see your work in action. It was very… enlightening."

Despite expecting a harsher reaction and the words themselves not being all that bad, he can feel something's terribly wrong. At face value, she seems relaxed with a laissez-faire attitude for the most part. However, he knows better. If there's one thing he's learned in this last month, it's that his eyes are unreliable when it comes to this woman.

There's a heavy sensation throughout the cell, causing his stomach to twist into intricate knots. Every muscle throughout his body is tense, waiting on edge for something to happen. It must be basic human instincts going into overdrive. Yes… That's what is making his hair stand on end.

'Fuck! Get it together. It's gotta be that friggin' magic doing this.'

"Enlightening?" Joker loudly scoffs at that, trying to shake off the alarms going off in his head. What does she mean by that in this context? He can't tell if she either doesn't give a single shit or is completely livid, but he'd bet money on the latter.

Instead of giving an answer, Sakura just sighs deeply. It's the sound a person makes when they don't feel like entertaining a child's foolish questions, and that pisses him off even more. Without another word, she turns away, heading towards the door.

"Wait a goddamn minute!" Where the hell does the witch think she's going? Doc closed the door behind her. They're basically locked in here together until someone opens it again. Unless she plans on punching through it…

"For what?" The pinkette stops just short of the only exit, standing perfectly still. Honestly, that's a good question. What does he want her to wait for? To give some explanation? To say, 'that wasn't what it looked like'? Ravel on about it being a farce to manipulate Harley? Would she listen? Or even care?

'I don't have to explain shit. I don't owe her a damn thing!'

Sakura knows what he is… She has a pretty good idea of what he does. That was made painfully obvious before. Him trying to mess up the Doc isn't a secret either. None of this is. That only makes this even more infuriating. A small piece of him feels like he did something wrong. That was never an issue before. Giving excuses or explanations isn't part of the game.

The clown does as he pleases without remorse. It's fun that way. No sense of guilt. Never feeling sorry for anyone or anything. Shame isn't meant to exist in this dark world he created. Just instant gratification and chasing the next thrill. Getting off on watching a plan come together nicely then executing it to perfection. Even if there was some outside interference, he's flexible enough to twist it into an advantage.

When talking with Harley, all he really thought about was distracting her enough so that she doesn't notice the puppet strings carefully being attached. Getting someone to turn on their own principles is pure entertainment. A hobby of sorts. Sometimes a little honey needs to be added to get the recipe just right. Sure, he was a bit forceful this time. Maybe it was frustration from forgetting about placing the rose and note in her office. What a blunder on his part. It's not like him to pass over on the details. This was all an effort to see how far the doctor can go and what she'll do.

But… When she finally left, and the pinkette revealed herself, any excitement his little experiment brought died away. Now he knows what it's like to be a deer caught in the headlights. Finding out the witch was there the entire time brought its own rotten range of unwanted emotions. Rage, shock, indignation, and most annoyingly… a hint of shame. That alone should make him puke on her for causing it.

'I don't have shit to be ashamed of. It's not like anything happened. She's the one who should be embarrassed for hanging upside down like some gross, voyeuristic spider in the corner…'

"You got nothing to say to me? Gonna just run off with your tail between your legs?" Even if it's antagonistic, he'd rather Sakura yell at him than say nothing. Something in his gut is screaming not to leave it like this. That if she walks out that door without a word, there might be no going back to the way it was. This last month or so and the plans he's been developing would all go to waste. Everyone has a limit. What if she reaches hers?

"What?!" Slowly turning to look at him, Joker finally hears the anger she was suppressing quickly bubbling to the surface. For just a second, he sees the contortion in her features, the flash of wrath in those green gems.

'Oh, shit.'

"Nope. Don't. Not worth it." As if attempting to calm herself down before doing something regrettable, she sucks in a deep breath, closing her eyes. Beneath the orange jumpsuit, he can see her chest moving with each exhale.

'Tch... Not worth it? What a cold bitch. I'm more worth it than anyone in this damn building.'

"Look… I'm not playing these stupid little games anymore, J. I don't feel like arguing with you either. There's nothing to fight about. It's not like we're together. I know you're expecting me to fly off the handle in a 'jealous rage' but that's not going to happen." A smirk spreads across her face as she watches the clown's hands gripping the edge of the mattress on either side of his legs, knowing her indifference towards the situation will make him even angrier. "You were doing your 'thing'. And I'm going to do mine. That's all there is to it. I'm just glad I made the right choice…"

Clasping her hands together, a poof of smoke envelops the pinkette's body. In an instant, Sakura's image is replaced with that of Yosef, the guard she's been impersonating throughout the day. With one last glance to make sure Joker sees a face he despises, she turns around to leave. Reaching towards the crease in the door, a key card is quickly yanked out, allowing it to be opened.

'That sneaky minx… She must've slid that in when Harley was leaving. Probably right before it closed. I didn't even see it.'

"Sayonara." The fake Yosef lazily waves without looking back, quietly slipping out into the hall.

Now, he's finally alone. For real this time.

Joker just sits at the foot of the bed, staring at the door. It's unnervingly quiet again… That shouldn't be an issue in solitary, but right now, it's bothering him. The silence in this cell is deafening, making the confrontational thoughts running through his mind obnoxiously loud. A chorus of voices shouting and bickering amongst each other, nitpicking at everything that was said and done.

Flopping against the bed, there's a sense of dread coursing through him. Maybe he made a mistake… Messing with Harleen's head is amusing and all, but not at the expense of losing something far more valuable.

Sakura hid to avoid causing an uproar from the doctor and guards. There's some kind of reason she's keeping herself locked up and steers clear of attracting too much attention. Still, she did it to make things easier on both of them. That didn't stop him from getting enraged when realizing there was an audience to his little performance. It wasn't her fault, yet he was mad anyway. Not really at the pinkette, but at himself. She was just there to take the brunt of that anger, even if it wasn't entirely unleashed.

It's easier to point fingers and blame others than accept he might actually be at fault here. His stupid mind games might've ruined the one thing really going for him at the moment. If he's going to draw Batman's attention and force his hand, why not use the best resources available?

Harley is comparable to going on Main St. and firing off a handgun. Yeah, the GCPD will be on its way and the act might get some news coverage but that's not enough. If it was, he'd have done it by now. No… Much more firepower will be necessary to get the caped crusader to crawl out from whatever cave he's cowering in. Sakura… Well, that's like setting napalm all around Gotham City and threatening to blow it sky-high if the flying rat doesn't show his mug in time. He'd have no choice other than to come out.

'It's not just that…'

No matter how many times he chalks it up to just wanting to use her as a weapon to bring his old rival back into the fray, it's a damn lie. They both know it. Sure, that's a nifty benefit that comes along with the package but that's only one out of so many.

Joker wants her simply because he does. There doesn't need to be more of an explanation than that. He doesn't need to keep coming up with reasons to justify it to himself. But every time things seem to get better or they get a little closer, he ends up sabotaging it all and having to start back at square one.

Why?

Why can't he just enjoy something without trying to destroy it? Even with Batman, he pushed too far. Now the clown is left chasing the shadow of a ghost and a handful of rumors that lead nowhere. The man disappeared without a trace after Dent's death, taking far too much with him.

The thrill of the chase. The taunts and fights. All the elaborate schemes that were part of a bigger picture. Hours upon hours of planning, pouring his time and energy in every little minute detail. Watching the Bat desperately trying to get a step ahead, only to find out he's two behind. Their dance was exhilarating. A guaranteed rush of adrenaline.

And it's over.

Like all good things in his life, Joker ruined it with his own two hands. And now he's doing it all over again. For what? Just to toy with a doctor? To punish anyone who dares to get too close? Or maybe it's just a way to stop himself from developing a personal connection with another being. One thing he never wanted to happen again is to have any weaknesses or liabilities.

"You were doing your 'thing'. And I'm going to do mine. That's all there is to it. I'm just glad I made the right choice…"

'What does she mean by that?'

The right choice… Could she be talking about earlier? Is Sakura saying that rejecting him was the right choice? Perhaps she thinks he's playing the same game with both her and Harley? Trying to have his cake and eat it too? That wouldn't be wrong… but it's not right either. What he wants from them is very different. Now it's probably too late to explain.

'She was thinking about giving herself to me… I could see it in her eyes. The witch was enjoying every moment of it.'

There were a few reasons the clown thought she stopped him. After what just happened, it's probably a 'trust issue'-type thing. If she kept to herself all these years, then giving it away to someone who's just going to stab her in the back afterward doesn't seem logical. Apparently, the pinkette is more sentimental than he previously thought.

To be honest, that makes Joker want to chase after her even more. He's a man that enjoys having what others don't and coveting it. In some ways, he's a greedy little shit. That woman is an uncharted territory that he's hellbent on exploring and claiming as his own. And she's wrong. He has no intention of letting her go after that. This newfound information doesn't change his objective. It just adds a few interesting layers to the story.

It's all useless if Sakura washes her hands of him. This time, he might've really gone too far. Even if she knows he's manipulating Harleen, actually seeing him being so forward with how he touched and caressed her could be a breaking point. If he's going to fix this, then changes need to be made. Assuming he's being watched at all times is a good start. That way, he won't be caught with his pants down like earlier… There won't be a reason to feel this way again. He'll be damned after all this to lose a powerhouse like Sakura for someone like Harley. That's a shit trade if he's ever seen one.

'I guess there's plenty of time in the box to cook something up. Flowers and notes won't work on this one… No more screwing this up. I can't afford it.'

Rolling onto his side, he glances towards the corner where Sakura hid. What a useful trick. She's like a stealthy ninja with strange powers. If he could do that, Gotham would be a sorry sight.

Dark eyes narrow on something lying on the concrete floor. He doesn't remember seeing that earlier… Pushing up off the bed, Joker takes a few steps across the cell, zeroing in on it. A frown plasters on his face as he squats down, picking the two small items off the cold surface.

'She…'

Scarred lips pull back in annoyance, baring his clenched teeth. There's no way she accidentally dropped these. It was on purpose, sending a clear signal to him for this latest sin he committed against her.

'That bitch threw my cards on the floor!'

The Queen of Heart and Jack of Spades she stole the night before.

'What am I going to do? What the hell am I going to do?!'

Leaning against the guard's station counter for support, Hareen feels like her legs might give out at any moment. How could she let this happen to herself? It's… unbelievable. Unprofessional. A disgrace to all mental health professionals far and wide.

Anyone with a shred of common sense would see that the Joker was trying to manipulate her. As a person who spends day after day working with dangerous criminals and cons, it's nothing out of the ordinary. Just living in Gotham itself will expose people to that kind of abuse. However, the problem is that he is mostly right.

Two options lay before her. One includes telling Jeremiah what she knows, most likely being berated in the process, and losing the Joker as a patient. In one fell swoop, all her aspirations will be dashed and she probably won't be trusted with a big case for some time. The upper echelons of Arkham will claim she's can't handle it. That's already been suggested before. This will only confirm their theory, no matter how false it may be.

The second is staying quiet and allowing her patient to get away with his part is the catastrophe that befell this asylum. It's not entirely clear if he orchestrated it, but that wouldn't be a surprise were that to be the case. He's done much worse in the past… But hiding this information could come with real consequences, aside from blackmail.

'Jesus Christ, Har… What've you gotten yourself into this time? If only I didn't see that damn note! Then this wouldn't have led back to him and I wouldn't be in this position… I could've just notified the guards that someone broke in and washed my hands of it all.'

She doesn't even know how to process any of this at the moment. It's too much, especially after the last twenty-four hours. Little to no sleep, too much paperwork, a breakout emergency, then spending most of the day running around the building. A person can only push themselves so far before breaking. For some time now, she's been spreading herself entirely too thin to carry on like this.

And the Joker's words on top of it all? That's what really got to her. He's picked up on far more than she intended. This isn't how it was supposed to play out. She's meant to help him. Rehabilitate him. Show Jeremiah what she's made of and prove to everyone what kind of psychiatrist Harleen Quinzel truly is.

'I can't do this right now… Just wait until you get home and have a glass of wine. Shake it off. You still have a job to do, dammit!'

"But… are you happy?"

The one thing Harleen constantly asks herself, yet no one else does. It's always questions about when is she going to do this or when is she going to do that. When will she get a boyfriend? Or settle down? Get a husband? Have children? Start a life others deem worth living? Even the people she cherishes most don't stop to think if what they're suggesting will make her happy. It might work for them but that doesn't mean it will for everyone.

Maybe… she doesn't want the conventional life they're trying to force down her throat. What if she checks everything down that list and still isn't satisfied? Then what? She'll be stuck in a miserable existence with no escape since there will be others directly relying on her.

Joker's the only one who's actually brought up the right questions… Forces her to take a step back and think about what she genuinely wants in life. Even if this is just a game for him, it's much more for her. It's opening doors she was too timid to even grab the handle of.

'I… need some time and space… Just to think this over. I can't just act or everything could fall apart in an instant.'

Sighing deeply, the doctor swipes a few loose strands away from her face while trying to calm down. This isn't the time or place to have a meltdown. The last thing she needs is coworkers losing faith in her at a time like this.

It might not even matter. With so much going on after last night's breakout, everyone is too busy trying to get the place back in order. The staff on this block are no exception. Solitary confinement had its own excitement. The guards at the desk are constantly relaying messages over the phone and filling out paperwork, paying her no mind. She could have a seizure right now, and they probably wouldn't even notice.

Shaking her head, the blonde pushes off the counter, ready to get back to work now that she's more composed. There's so much to do in such little time and now they're understaffed, aside from all the other problems.

'Goddammit… Ugh, I'm cursing more than I used to. It's this place.'

Turning to go back down the hall she came from, Harleen freezes, seeing something unusual.

'What?'

Blue eyes widen when she notices one of the cell doors opening. A guard storms out in a huff, letting it shut behind him without making sure it's secure.

'That's… J's cell. I didn't see anyone go in there. And Yosef just came out of it… I know for a fact he's not in today. What's going on?!'

The doctor's heels click against the floor as she makes her way down the hall, carefully watching the Middle-Eastern man stomping away from her patient's cell. It doesn't make sense… The door locks and opens from the outside. Why was he in there, and how did he get out without someone using a keycard on the control pad?

"Y–Yosef!" The guard already had some distance on her before she followed him, but now they're getting further apart. His long legs and wide stride are making it difficult to catch up, especially in heels. If only she could take them off, then this wouldn't be an issue, but God knows what's been spilled on this floor since last night alone. Blood, vomit, urine… And probably other things she doesn't want to think about.

'Goddammit!'

Being alone inside the Joker's cell without backup can't mean anything good. For neither him, Josef, nor anyone else. Going back in there isn't a good idea, so she'll have to settle for interrogating the guard. Harleen wants answers, and she's going to get them.