In some twisted reality the sky is purple and politicians are honest. Being left handed isnt weird but a privilege. You are judged for who you are not what you look like. PBS has enough money so they no longer have fundraisers. War is settled with the best 2 outta three in rock paper scissors. And I own Batman Beyond. But we live in this reality and I don't own Batman Beyond. Man this reality sux!
Miss You
Three days had passed since Harley's abduction and Nightshade watched her even more carefully. 6:45 Chris Isley was finally released from his shift of work. He didn't even bother to stay behind to have a quick chat with the shop owner as he always did. When Mr. Thyme asked what was wrong with him he answered flatly. Having problems with my girlfriend. As he walked out into the grimy city streets turned orange by the setting sun Christopher Isley disappeared and in his place walked the Deadly Nightshade, a lone figure in search for what is his.
By 6:59 Nightshade stopped his car and waited patiently at a single stoplight that distanced him two meager blocks away from the apartment building Harley lived.
A dark car pulled up beside him. Going to check up on her again? A deep strong voice asked.
Nightshade looked over at Batman. I'm going to keep looking after her until she's home. He said.
She's fine, extra security has been set up around the building. I might guess you've added a bit of your own security precautions. Batman said.
Nightshade nodded. The main reason why Shadow and her master went after Harl is because of me. Nightshade said.
They attacked her because we're getting too close to finding out something. Batman corrected.
Nightshade glared at him. That time it was a warning, I'm not sure what they might do the next time. He stated.
Batman cocked a brow. So are you giving up? He asked.
No, but you had better have one hell of a plan the next time you face that woman. She went too far when she got Harley involved. Nightshade said sitting through the next light.
Working on something right now." A small moment a silence passed before he spoke up again. "Why do you like Harley so much? Batman wondered.
Love not like. Nightshade smiled warmly. It's the small things. How happy she is when we're doing the simplest of things. The way she paints her toenails in the car then let them air dry. The way she coaxes me into things, our afternoon naps, and so on. Not to mention she's a tomcat in bed.
Batman sighed. You had better go home, Harley can take care of herself. He said then drove away.
Nightshade considered his words for a moment; he looked forwards at the top of the Shamrock building in the distance. Sighing heavily he made a U-turn and headed back home.
***
The day had begun sweltering hot. The type of heat that cast everything in a veil of dusty orange hues. Harley laid upside down on the top of her bed dressed only in her silk matching bra and panties. Moving as little as possible she undid her hair hand let her head hang over the bed's edge.
It was only twenty minutes ago that the CirCus had just dropped her off. Rayven had just gotten her tongue pierced for the third time, now she had a vertical row of silver tongue studs. Punch was talking about leaving the Jokerz because when it came down to it they would abandon you in a heartbeat. Loup and Jox were forever talking about the newest bikes on the market and the soon coming Bike fest they were planning to skip school to attend. Lena had brought her two-year-old daughter along to hang out with her aunts and uncles' at the Burger Palace. The day had been a good day, but it had ended a bit too soon.
Emily and Dr. Vanderburg had left about two hours ago to attend the pool party of one of Emily's many friends'. Harley was grateful Dr. Vanderburg had convinced Emily that it was okay that she stayed behind, she didn't feel like being shown off again. That's all she was a doll to be shown around.
She was even more grateful that the headaches had died down somewhat. Before they would reduce her to tears as she begged for some kind of painkiller. But now it was a small pain as if someone was pressing their thumbnails into her temples, usually she rode out the small pains. She stared up at the ceiling recalling that the bedroom of the apartment of Shady Glades had an overhead fan she liked to watch whirl above her head as she laid down.
I wonder how Red and Erik are. She said aloud to no one.
***
Nightshade finding he could do nothing else for the night returned to his apartment. As he opened the door he was met with a messy sight.
The trash can had been toppled over leaving the kitchen a mess. But that was in no comparison to the living room. Most of the trash from the kitchen was bragged into the living room. The many magazines and junk mail was chewed up. Two of the three couch cushions had been shredded into oblivion.
Nightshade shouted.
Erik jumped down from his nest of torn cloth and pillow stuffing and made a dash for the bedroom.
Nightshade could understand why he had torn the couch into an early grave; Erik missed her just as he did, even the plants looked dull as if they dared to wither without Harley about.
Defeated he sunk down onto the remaining cushion in a hard flop. A moist feeling surrounded his rear and thighs.
He hissed standing up from the pissed drenched cushion. His head snapped in the direction of the bedroom door just in time to see the hyena's head disappear once again into the dark room. He could have sworn he heard it laughing at him before it vanished.
Nightshade removed his costume before the urine soaked into his skin. Dressed only in his boxers he began to turn on the television.
Finding nothing on he changed for the CD player.
Harley's Massive Attack CD was still in the deck. He realized she was the last person to use the CD player in all these weeks. He was about to change it when a slow version of Unfinished Sympathy began to play.
I know that I've been mad in love before
And how it could be with you
Really hurt me baby, really cut me baby
How can have a day without a night
You're the book that I have opened
And now I've got to know much more
The curiousness of your potential kiss
Has got my mind and body aching
Really hurt me baby, really cut me baby
How can you have a day without a night
You're the book that I have opened
And now I've got to know much more
Like a soul without a mind
In a body without a heart
I'm missing every part
Memories began to resurface through his mind. Like for one when he discovered how immodest Harley really was. How she would surprise him sometimes and pull him into a shower with her or vise versa.
Flashback
Someone had rung the door buzzer. Chris said looking out the peephole. Harl gimme you jack-in-the-box.
Who is it? Harley asked wondering who was about to meet terror by the means of her jack in the box bomb. She asked.
Worse. It's Jehovah Witness again. Chris whispered.
Great, didn't they bother us enough on Easter? She asked squirting herself in ketchup and grabbing a knife.
The bell, buzzer, rang out again. Forget the box sic Erik on them. He said watching as Harley talked towards the door.
Step back Red I'll handle She opened the door. She said before the two men could speak. You're late! We have already slaughtered the goat in homage of our great goddess Licky-me-likey! But you've made it just in time for the orgy! She shouted ripping off her ketchup stained shirt exposing her faded navy blue demicup bra.
The two men dressed in suits scrambled over on another as they struggled to get off the floor where the crazed woman resided. Harley closed the door and walked back into the living room. See you just have to know how to handle them. She said stroking his cheek then heading back to her work in the kitchen.
End Flashback!
There were many of times Harley did insane things to scare others or get themselves out of trouble. He loved her carefree nature and the odd ways she would retort if anyone dared try to damage it. If someone were to look at her for too long she would smile widely at them and say. I'm wearing clean underwear today!'
To his surprise his beloved Harl had a softer kinder side to her that she didnt let her mild case of insanity tint. She hid the gentle being she was behind the rough and rowdy mask only to release when the time called for it. Chris had a moment with the gentler side of her one afternoon after work. She had just came in from walking Erik when she noticed him sitting down at the kitchen table with a weary look on his face.
You don't look so good. She reported her once playful tone melting into seriousness as she relieved Erik of his leash.
Chris said.
C'mere and have a seat on the couch. She said leaving to wash her hands. When she returned she took her seat on the coffee table edge. With a gentle push she forced him back until his head rested against the couch arm. She carefully straddled his waist her strong thighs astride him. Her arm extended as she reached out her hand towards him. Her cool skin brushed against his temple and flutter across the small flame red hairs of his eyebrows. Her nimble fingers slowly traced over of his warm brow and then traveled down to stroke the strong curve of his green cheek. Poor baby, you're sick. She said her hand moving up to brush across the down hair of his temples.
Right now, She began standing up. You need lots of fluids, toast, and sleep. Harley said taking off her top.
Sitting up Chris looked over her gifted figure a moment as if he had never seen her without apparel before. What's the toast for? He asked.
That's all I can make for now until I go grocery shopping. Harley said lying down on the couch.
Chris smiled as he laid down on Harley's belly. Why don't you act like this more often? He asked.
Sadness crept into Harley's voice. I use to before I lose someone very close to me. She said.
Chris nodded. Your dad. He said.
Yeah...and someone else that helped make me the girl I am today. Harley said.
Chris was about to ask whom but stopped, he knew when and when not to push Harley for answers.
Nightshade sighed as he looked around the hyena-damaged room. He couldn't stand being there alone.
***
Back at the Shamrock apartments Harley held a glass of orange juice in her hands as she walked into the cool breeze out on the black iron railed balcony. The night was warm still but it was cooler than the daylight hours before. She sighed longingly as she looked out over the lit windows of the distant buildings. She looked down to the ground far far below her. If she jumped she could making it safely to the ground, she had jumped from higher buildings and with good reflexes and a firm hold made it down to the ground. Yes all she had to do was jump and let instincts kick in, or not, either way she'd be free.
A sharp pain spiked through Harley's head. She hissed backing away from the rail to take a seat on the metal lawn chair.
Save me again, Red. She said to nothing.
She recalled the day after her abduction waking up in the protective arms of her beloved boyfriend and partner. She wished he had taken her away, back to their home. Or out of Gotham. People like us don't can't escape Gotham.' The voice of a ghost from the past whispered in her ear. Can't ever get away, hon. She whispered going back to that morning.
Waking up in his strong arms was something she enjoyed. But she enjoyed the reasons why she always ended up in his arms better.
Last flashback I promise
Harley shouted as she brought the flyswatter against the wall with a loud crack. The fat black fly flew before her face as if teasing her misaim. Pick it up! Just know this my little pesky friend; you are dying today! She yelled swinging again.
The fly darted from the bedroom into the hall heading into the living room. Oh no you don't! She hissed running after it with Erik at her heels.
As they entered the plant overtaken living room Harley slowed to a creep. Today ladies and gentlemen we are hunting the elusive hairy-legged black tar housefly. She said in a British accent, Erik only looked up at her then left her for the kitchen in hopes of food.
Harley only shrugged. It seems my trusty hyena has abandoned me to go off a hunting of his own. But I shall not let this disturb my hunt. She went on.
Chris, who moments before was reading a book, watched her with concerned eyes. Harley spotted the fly on the wall just above the television. With a devilish smile of victory she swung.
A green blur reached out snapping its jaws shut on the fly. The fly eating plant reached out farther snapping at Harley. Out of reaction Harley brought up the flyswatter knocking off the head.
Chris yelled running to the aid of the decapitated plant.
What? It bit at me! She said in her defense. It was out of reflexes!
Chris held the death plant in his green hands. It was after the fly! He hissed.
It was after my hand! She yelled. The argument went on and on until it came down to very few words. Just stay outta my face Chris! Harley yelled heading into the bedroom.
Chris stated.
Harley shouted back.
Chris shouted.
Harley screamed slamming the door a split second after Erik slipped in.
The silence that ruled for the next two hours only made the tension in the air ever thicker. Harley laid on the floor of the bed scratching the overjoyed Erik behind the ears while she stared up at the ceiling fan. She could hear the television through the walls being changed every few seconds. They were both waiting for the same thing, for one to give in first. Harley scoffed. I ain't apologizing. She said to Erik. Erik looked up at her and whimpered. Hungry me little meat maniac? She cooed standing up. I could use something to eat myself.
After giving Erik a small plate of baby back ribs Harley fixed herself a hot cheesecake sundae Harley sat down on the countertop. It was going to be a long standoff at the rate they were going. Harley thought to herself as she savagely devoured the sundae.
Alright time for a nap! Harley sung out to no one as she walked into the hallway only to collide with the apartments only other human tenant.
Watch it Chris! Harley hissed regaining herself. His rich deep green eyes that reminded her of emeralds stared intensely at her. Harley knew what that meant, one very long verbal fight that could lead to physical if she didn't keep her temper. What are you lookin' at? She sneered.
Harley had very little time to react when she was suddenly pinned against the wall with Chris's lips pressed hungrily against her own.
No words of apology needed to be spoken. The incident from moments before had been forgotten.
In the time that followed after Harley laid on her belly in a slight curled position slowly slipping into a pleasant sleep. Chris laid behind her with his head resting on her shoulder; one green arm wrapped underneath her holding her waist and the other draped over her hip.
Harley listened closely to his deep rhythmic breaths. If he knew that if he just held her in his arms she would melt her tough girl repute would be shattered. She smiled almost laughing, she wouldn't dare tell him that she loved they way he dominated in the bedroom, how she loved to have his weight crushing down on her, and how now he held her in his arms silently stating that she belonged to him. With one last happy sigh she fell away from the world in a deep sleep.
End of last flashback as promised
The small hairs on the back of Harley's neck began to prickle alerting her that a present was behind her. Harley pulled herself out of her small trip down memory lane.
You shouldn't be here. She said sitting up straight.
The figure well hidden in the dark embrace of the shadows stepped out into the dim light emitting from the streetlights and the bright quarter moon. Needed to see you. Nightshade said.
Harley did not turn. I told you to stay away. Do I have to get a restraining order against you?
Nightshade laughed lightly, A restraining order won't stop me. He said.
Harley slowly shook her head from side to side. You don't have any idea what you being here right now is doing to me. You have absolutely no idea why I chose to stay here and live miserably. Why don't you just leave me alone, leave everything as it is?
Nightshade could easily detect the sorrow in her voice. Do you miss me? He asked.
Harley turned ever so slightly to her side. He could see the trail of tears falling down her cheeks, More than you'll ever know.
Nightshade reached out and stroked his fingers over her trembling lips then rubbed his thumb under her eye wiping away the tears. Harley I'll figure this all out soon, then you'll be free. He said. He planted a firm kissed on her still trembling lips then placed another on her forehead. I promise. He said turning to leave.
Harley called out. The desperation in her voice made him stop in his tracks. Harley fidgeted with her fingers as she shyly looked into his face. Can... can you stay for awhile? I'm...I'm having trouble sleeping at night.
He only smiled. Same here. He said then followed her into the apartment.
The hours seemed to go by quickly when the two were together, before they knew it the evening had passed and Harley could barely keep her eyes open. By 11:21 Harley laid on her bed with her head resting soundly on Nightshade's chest. Nightshade smiled down on her then brought his lips close to her ear. Harl, do you still love me? He whispered.
Harley moaned rotating onto her side. Mm huh, forever and a day Red. She said in her sleep. Nightshade stole a kiss as the front door in the distance room opened Emily and Jonas could be heard talking uncaring if they should waken the most likely sleeping teenager.
We'll be together again soon, I promise. Nightshade said turning to leave the discreet way he had came.
____________________________________
End o' whatever number this chapter is.
Just cuz I'm excited I'll tell you what's up with
the next chappie. We find out who the Shadow is!!!!!