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ficklefics · 3 years

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Who Needs Enemies - Chapter One: Trouble Never Stops

SEQUEL TO FRIENDS LIKE THESE

It’s only been a few months since Harleen’s birthday and her new normal is undoubtedly strange; her and Jerome’s lives are completely intertwined. It’s not quite a relationship, but they undoubtedly have a growing and twisted connection. For once in her life she is happy - until Jerome’s past begins to unravel and she discovers that he has been less than honest with her.

Jerome Valeska x Harleen Quinzel, Jeremiah Valeska x Harleen Quinzel

SERIES MASTERLIST ~ MASTERLIST

Beep! Beep! Beep!

I groan and roll over, slamming my hand onto the clock to silence the shrill alarm. I’ve barely slept, but if I was dreaming I don’t remember what.

Even after three months, it still feels strange to wake up in my empty childhood home.

My parents didn’t come back after they went to Norway. Instead, they moved to New York again – the only logical option from their perspective. They didn’t try to get me to join them; I guess they finally realised that there are far more reasons for me to stay than there are to go.

It’s a typical morning. I get dressed and go downstairs. First thing is to turn on the coffee machine. While it’s doing its thing I fill up Puddin’s food and water. She’s six months old now and reaches up to my knee; almost completely unrecognisable from the puppy I got last Christmas. I scratch behind her ears and stand back up, grabbing two mugs and filling them up with fresh coffee. The scent fills the room, making me sigh audibly.

Then comes the perfectly timed chapping at the back door. I turn around as Jerome comes in. “It really shocks me how punctual you are.” There’s no need for ‘hello’s’. “I’m a criminal, not disrespectful.” He scoffs. I grin, sliding his coffee over to him. He picks it up and takes a slow sip. “You seriously make the best coffee.” “Only because I have an expensive coffee machine.” I walk around the island between us to stand beside him. “Rich girl perks.” I shrug. He wraps an arm around me and squeezes my shoulders, making me giggle. “Guess that’s a good enough reason to keep you around.” “Very funny. You know you’re stuck with me.” I elbow him in the stomach, slightly harden than could be considered teasing. Jerome seems to consider the words for a moment before his grip tightens and I’m being spun around so the counter is pressed against my back and Jerome is leaning over me. “Maybe you’re the one who’s stuck with me.”

A few months ago this would have scared me – not anymore.

I give a smirk and, with a grab of his collar, spin us both around so that we’ve swapped and it’s my arms around him. “Are you sure about that?” “Someone’s confident.” “You know it.” I wink. He shakes his head with a smile before leaning down and kissing me.

His touch still sends electricity through every nerve in my body. My skin tingles. My heart races.

My arm slides away from me on the counter and knocks into one of the mugs. The sound of it smashing on the ground pulls us apart. Jerome laughs at the mess and I slap his shoulder before grabbing a dustpan and a paper towel to clean up the mess. “Thanks for the help,” I grumble as I drop the shards in the trash. “You looked like you had it handled.” “Sure.” I roll my eyes. “Oh, remember, no surprise visits tonight or tomorrow. Wren’s visiting, and she can’t find out about this.” “Not sure how I feel about being your dirty little secret, Harls.” “Deal with it.”

As soon as Wren and I are through the door I take off my heels and drop them haphazardly on the floor. She laughs at me and I make a face at her before leading the way into the front room. We collapse onto opposite couches, her facing the bay window and me facing the open doors to the dining room. Who would have thought dinner could be so exhausting?

“It feels weird being back.” She sighs, a melancholy smile on her face. “You’re telling me,” I laugh softly. “You’d think coming back after five years would be the big deal – not five months.” “Well, a lot more has happened in the five months I’ve been in England than the whole time we were in New York.” “That’s a good point.” She hesitates before she speaks again. “I’m glad life is back to normal.” I nod in agreement. “Things got scary for a bit.” “That feels like an understatement.” She rolls her eyes. “I didn’t think it was possible for someone to get kidnapped so much in six months.” “What can I say, I’m an overachiever.” “Hilarious.” She leans forward, an earnest look in her eyes. “It is all over though, right? He’s disappeared?” “Yup. I haven’t seen or heard of Jerome Valeska in months…” I trail off at the sight of the bastard in question frozen in the doors behind Wren. My eyes widen in sudden panic but I force myself to keep calm. “You okay?” She frowns at my sudden change in demeanour. “Oh, yeah, I’m fine, just thought I saw something.” She goes to turn and I panic again. “It’s nothing! It’s fine.” My outburst manages to keep her attention on me long enough for Jerome to disappear out of sight. I have no clue what he’s doing here. I am going to kill him.

It’s after midnight when Wren’s head starts to droop. We say our goodnights, and after locking the doors and checking that Jerome is actually gone, I head to my room.

As I’m getting changed I notice a scrap of paper on my desk that I know wasn’t there before. I pick it up and unfold it to find a name: ‘Zachary Trumble’ – Jerome’s uncle. My mind flickers back to Jerome and I, sat in that cell, waiting for death.

“It’s not cheery.” “Nothing is with you. Or everything is.” “Fine. So, when I was a kid, before I realised the world hated me, I had an uncle.” “Zach.” “Smart girl.” “Ha ha.” “Dear old mom’s brother. He was a cook at the circus, and he would bake too. Great at it. We used to try and steal cookies from him. One time, he caught me. Took my hand and shoved it in a pot of boiling stock. Practically cooked me down to the bone. Took months for the burns to heal. And I never forgot the smell of my own flesh boiling.” “I’m sorry.” “Don’t be. It’s funny.”

…

“You said, “we”. Did you have friends?” “Doesn’t matter.” “But -” “I said, it doesn’t matter!”

He never mentioned the story or his uncle again – it was very clearly off-limits. The note means nothing to me, so I drop it back on the desk and let myself fall into a restless sleep.

It’s 3am when the ringing of my phone wakes me up. I answer quickly, if only to shut it up. “Hello?” My voice is muddy and hoarse with sleep. “Hey.” It’s Jerome. I can hear sirens. “Look, I’m in trouble.” Now wide awake, I sit up, clutching the phone to my ear. “What’s happening? Do you need help?” “Nah, I’ll be fine. Did you see my note?” “You mean the very unhelpful one?” I glance over at it. “Yeah.” “I need you to find him. Any information you can.” The sirens are getting louder. “Look, I need to go. See ya’ later.” “Wait, Jerome -” Silence. He hung up. There’s nothing I can do.

CHAPTER TWO

#jerome valeska x harleen quinzel #jeremiah valeska x harleen quinzel #gotham #jerome valeska #harleen quinzel #jeremiah valeska

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stagekiller · 5 years

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RAM

Meme

{ always accepting :D }

Two pairs of emerald hues reflect the white light of a fluorescent lamp. Awe is painted on two small, round, freckled faces. Inside a glass container sits a pile of fresh snickerdoodles, their crunchy, buttered surface glistening deliciously.

Temptation heightens as both twins have tasted the heavenly delight that is Uncle Zachary’s snickerdoodles before; the satisfying crunch and soft, sweet insides… Jerome noisily sucks some drool back inside, much to his brother’s disgust. But Jeremiah’s face can only spare him an annoyed glimpse, for he too can’t resist the candy’s pull. Food is cooking in the background, a variety of smells mixing together in a distracting yet beautiful blend.

Knowing that two young daredevils are fooling around his irresistible creations, Zachary has set the container up on the highest shelf, ensuring that the only way to reach them would be to attempt a dangerous jump from the counter, risking to pull the entire container down and smash it noisily - thus, alert him to the theft. Both twins knew attempting to steal from Uncle Zach would have dire consequences. He could be brutal.

“ You can’t reach that high anyway.” Jeremiah mutters bitterly. It’s spoken as a fact, but all a Jerome hears is an insult. Green eyes narrow as he turns to meet his brother’s face. A dare lurks behind those words. And Jerome heard it very clearly.

He’s not as controlled. He’s got wildfire in his heart; it shows in his red curls that fly in all directions, whilst his brother’s sit flat into a dull bob.

But silent waters run deep.

Jerome is not one to turn the dare down. Despite the threat of their Uncle coming back to check on those gargling pots, he makes a dash for the nearest counter. A risky attempt to jump once is performed; but he indeed can’t reach. Determination fuels his next one. The light ‘tap’ of his shoes touching the counter each time increases the chances of alerting Zachary with each failed attempt. But Jerome is blissfully ignorant to danger.

And if he wants that snickerdoodle, he is going to get it.

One more try; this time he managed to touch the container’s lid, slightly pushing it back. Sweet scent keeps him going. A little hand manages to slide behind the glass, tilting it to his direction. And another one - now it’s getting noisy - the tips of his fingers graze the buttered surface. Then another one and ! -

A light thud announces his return to the ground, face glowing with PRIDE.

Green pupils twitch lightly, as an inquisitive gaze scans his brother’s face for a reaction. Jeremiah seems… not pleased with the outcome.

His thumbs press on each side of the snicker doodle, pushing down to break it in half and expose its soft insides. The gesture is sourced partly in brotherly affection and partly in the desire to shove his victory in Miah’s face.

With a triumphant smile, Jerome steps closer and holds out half of the treat to his brother’s direction. Miah’s hand reluctantly takes it, mouthing a quiet ‘ Thank you ’. He is not sure if his brother said it out of an instinctive reaction, the reflex to act politely, or if he meant it. But he offers a warm, albeit smug, grin in return.

Vanity stops him from spotting the threat fast enough, however. By the time Miah’s expression melts into fright, Uncle Zachary is already towering over the child, his shadow cast on Jerome’s back like a vulture circling prey.

“ Well, well, what do we have here.”

The voice makes all hair on his neck stand on edge. A reflexive attempt to jump forward is made, but the results are poor; Uncle Zach’ has grabbed the rim of his shirt before he has a chance to make a run for it.

“ I’m sorry! I’m sorry! ” Pleas ensue within an instant. But Zachary doesn’t sound moved. His voice holds a sinister tone, enhanced by the fact Jerome knows his Uncle is going to beat him until he won’t be able to walk.

“ You know what they did to thieves in the old days, nephew?” The boy struggles in Zachary’s grasp, but the man is three times his size. It’s futile. His little feet kick against the floor all in vain.

“ They cut their hands off! ”

Tiny hand is yanked into a boiling kettle. Thick soup is bubbling inside. Jerome’s shriek tears the air in half ! Excruciating pain forces his little body into a writhing frenzy, mouth foaming as he bites down on his lower lip hard enough to draw blood.

“ I told him not to do it Uncle! ”

“ Jerome, I told you not to do it! ”

“ Please don’t hurt him, Uncle! ”

… what had he said back then, Jerome can’t remember …

Stench of burning flesh swims in the air, filling his nostrils; drowning him.

Sizzling assaults his ears, blocking out all other noises; even his own screams.

“ Don’t ever try to pull that shit on me again, you hear me? ” He shakes the child back and forth by the arm, shoulder popping as fragile bones strain under the pressure. “ Cause next time I’ll stuff your face in the boiler ! ”

A desperate, blurry gaze lands on his brother, seeking HELP, even consolation through a glance; pigeon begging for crumbs.

How pathetic.

Jeremiah’s standing beside Uncle Zachary, his aura calm, serene. Jerome is even willing to interpret that as comfort; at least he didn’t leave, he hasn’t run off. And then his twin lifts a hand to rosy lips; He’s eating the snicker-doodle.

His share too.

HIS share too !!

… at least that’s how Jerome remembers it ….

“ Why does Lila keep you around, I’ll never understand !! She’s better off tossing you in the river ! ”

He can’t remember how he dragged his sore little legs all the way home that day.

Warm tears POUR down his face; and the rainfall won’t stop any time soon, as sobs get louder by the second.Uncontrollable shaking takes over, shoulders jumping with each spasm as the child breaks down in front of the circus wagon. His loud weeping unsettles the long python curled in a red painted cage beside him. He rocks back and forth, clutching his burned hand, now covered in bubbling skin, stinging with mind-numbing pain.

Then, suddenly, a small hand tenderly rubs his shoulder.

“ Does it hurt? ”

Miah’s soft voice conveys some genuine concern. His light touch could be soothing, especially as he slowly takes a seat behind his brother, brows scrunching up and gaze softening. It looks like he might even offer a hug… But Jerome’s eye picks up on a little smirk playing at the corners of his brother’s lips. And he KNOWS the expression all too well from himself.

His left eye twitches lightly; a premonition. Aggravation peaks as tiny hands jerk to wrap around Miah’s throat, the force alone capable of knocking his brother over, despite Jerome being slightly smaller.

Grip grows forceful as the child yells incoherent curses, growls and grunts like an animal. In between choking and putting up a weak resistance, brother dear manages to cough out;

“ MOM! MOM HELP -”

#{ goldcnblood }#child abuse //#You'd better not forget to clap! || {Asks answered}#{ Headcanons }

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theabominableblogger · 6 years

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My Reaction to “Gotham” S4E16

ONLY TWO MORE OF THESE TO GO, KIDDIES!

The rest of these reaction posts I’ll be uploading are not chronological order. They’re like that because A) college and B) more college.

My sister watched it with me (as well as the other episodes left in my epic “Gotham” reaction series) so my comments will be in bold, and hers will be in regular font. Author’s notes courtesy of me will be bolded and italicized.

Also, quick warning (and probably obligated to say this), we don’t like Barbara’s storyline.

AN: I managed to record our reactions to this episode and hopefully I can transcribe what I said into this post.

*Lee shoots Sofia in the recap* Oooooohhh!!

But she’s not dead though, apparently!

*sighs* Nobody’s dead on this show...

And he’s [Jerome] alive!

*flatly* Was there any doubt.

Meanwhile, at Arkham Asylum...

*The Arkham guard turns on her Walkman* Oh, this is never a good idea...

*starts slow jamming out to "Fool For You” by Alice Smith*

Yeah headphones are required...

Ohhhh OK...

Because! *points excitedly at screen when Jervis appears*

*scoffs in hilarity when Jervis tries to talk to the guard, who can’t hear him*

What.

*gasps when one of the guards pops up behind the main guard*

“Tortuga! You almost gave me a heart attack!” Tortuga?

*shrugs cluelessly*

*Tortuga slices the guard’s neck* Ooooooohhhhhhh!!

Jesus God!

Jervis, I like your shorter hair much better.

Tortuga.... *claps hands* THE MOCK TURTLE!

OH MY GOD!

YEAH!

Wha- oh my God...

*jaw drops in excitement when we see Scarecrow*

[Jervis] I LOVE YOUR NEWSPAPER HAT!

That’s a different actor [playing Scarecrow]. That’s not Charlie Tahan.

*chuckles* He’s [Scarecrow] experimenting in his toilet.

Did he just put a whole bunch of that sodium stuff in his freaking toilet?

That thing is gonna get blown right off the wall in a matter of minutes.

I know!

*Scarecrow pours that crap on a lock* Holy shit!

That’s all you were doing with that?!?

*Cue Jerome* EEEEEEEEEEYYYYYYYY!!!!!

Ohhh dear.

EEEEYYYYYY!!!

“When I [Jerome] say ‘three hairs past a freckle,’ gentlemen, I do not mean five hairs past.” *both immediately smile*

“Boys, boys, let’s not squabble too early in our partnership. There will be plenty of time to stab each other in the backs later!” *both chuckle*

“That’s the spirit, boys. Think big- and kinky.” *done*

“And lose the weirdo. She’s [Tortuga] giving me [Jerome] the heebie jeebies.” *trying her absolute damndest not to laugh*

*laughs* Stop calling us out!

*both yell in horror when Tortuga slices her own neck*

“Now, to free the rest of our cronies and blow this pop stand.” WELL DANG!

It’s “Popsicle stand,” you cretin.

*laughs* He don’t know that.

If you’re gonna insult me, do it properly.

WHO’S THE LOSER WITH THE DRUMS?!?

I KNOW, I LOVE THAT DUDE!!!

*both crack up at Jerome going down the aisle and making stupid faces at other inmates*

Ohhhhh, he’s great.

*jams out to opening theme*

“How many got out?” “87. The entire violent ward.” *jaw drops in shock*

“Yeah, we’ve rounded up most of the serious nutjobs; they’re the guys that think they’re walruses or what not.” *both immediately do finger guns at screen*

EEEEEEYYYYYYYY....

Any carpenters in there?

Please tell me there’s gonna be more Benedict Samuel. Two minutes of that guy, and I already love him.

*chuckles*

Like he’s not the Jervis Tetch I know and love, but he’s entertaining as hell.

He’s very good!

Yeah, Benedict Samuel’s real voice sounds nothing like that. It’s like stereotypically British. But not Cockney, just British.

AN: WHAT?!?! HE’S ACTUALLY FROM AUSTRALIA?!?

*smiles*

“All right, listen up! If I’d [Jim] have known I’d be seeing your ugly mugs tonight, I’d have stayed in the hospital.” *both chuckle*

Ben McKenzie directed this episode, I forgot!

I take it that means we’re in for a good one.

AN: Yes.

“Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim, Jim!” *laughs*

JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM JIM

“Do it, OR I’M [Jervis] GONNA KILL SOMEONE! In case you have any doubts.” *both crack the hell up*

I shouldn’t be... God, he’s good!

“Let’s go.” Here we go go go go gooooo!

"You [Jim] said we had to have each other’s backs tonight, right?” Yes!

“So what, we’re [Jim and Harvey] either idiots, or we’re hypnotized? Good choices.” *both laugh*

Oh please tell me this is the episode with Harvey being awesome.

Uh, that’s the next episode.

AAAAUUUUUGGGHHHH!!!

*Jervis meets Jim with a hypnotized couple* SON OF A BITCH!

Who the hell are they?!?

*so done* A random married couple! Because in the previous season, Jervis was all like “Oh, Jim, what are you worried about? Your love life?!?” and I’m like “SHUT UP!”

“Lo and behold! The bold Captain Jim Gordon, and his rusty caboose in tow.” *chuckles* ‘Rusty caboose in tow...’

*giggles*

Dude, look at that scarf [that Jervis wears]!

Do you recall when I [Jervis] first came to this fair city, Jim? A bawling mess, wanting nothing more than to address the safety of my dear sister Alice?” :/

“You gave me NO CHOICE!” *tries not to laugh at the SUDDEN YELLING*

“I was willing to give you any life you wanted, just to keep you out of mine.”

*Jervis gives the command to drop the wrecking ball* Ooohhh..

Oh shit-

*both yell and reel back in absolute horror when the couple gets squashed*

*both still in :O for a good minute or so*

He [Jervis] drives off! *laughs*

I DON’T KNOW WHAT THE HELL I JUST SAW!

That just killed the moment, just him randomly driving off.

I don’t know what the hell I just saw!

I don’t know either.

That was kinda awesome! I’m not gonna lie!

*Bruce and Selina enter the precinct* Yaaay!

The dynamic duo.

Yaay!

*laughs* She [Selina] just growled at him [Bruce]!

Ooooohhhh I like that [Barbara’s] office.

I like her hair.

Season 4: the season of Booze ™ !

*chuckles*

There’s just so much booze in this season!

*sings* Alcohol... my per-ma-nent accessory...

*mouths while aggressively pumping hand holding phone in air* Shots shots shots shots!

[Barbara] Don’t mix pills with booze. Don’t do that.

“He [Ra’s] brought me [Barbara] back to life. We’d never even met. Why choose me?” Because he brought you back to life?!?

Are you two [Barbara and Tabitha] still going out or like what? What’s the situation here?

*shrugs* I guess...

What’s the situation here?

Friends with benefits?

I guess...

*chuckles* I don’t know...

*gasps when we get a flashback of Barbara’s death in S3*

Oh shit!

WHY HER THOUGH?!? That is my question!

That’s a great shot though [of Ra’s reviving Barbara], I have to say.

What the hell...

*Ra’s brings out the Lazarus water* Oooo-oohhhhhhh...

Is that from the Lazarus pit?!?

I think that’s from the Lazarus pit! Yeah, ‘cause it’s like a neon color in this show!

Oh my God!

*Ra’s revives Barbara* There we go. That explains it.

So you can drink in it rather than bathe in it in this continuity.

Yeah. I mean, you can do both.

*Barbara is resurrected* Ohhh!

Oh shit!

“Oh, what a vital, poisonous little mind you [Barbara] have. And yet, everybody hates you for it, don’t they?” I don’t think that’s why they hate you.

“You are just the one I’ve been looking for.” :/

“You [Barbara] shall become the Demon’s Head. The League of Shadows will be yours to command, an army of assassins.” *rubs head in frustration* Ohhhh, are we doing this again... ohhh....

They’re not talking “Oh, Dark Knight!” That’s later.

[Ra’s] You’re gonna hand the League of Assassins over to her [Barbara]?!?

I know, I don’t like it either.

WHy?!?

I don’t know.

That sounds stupid.

“I’m [Barbara] OK.” No you’re not.

*The remnants of the married couple* Oh my God.. those are just dummy parts sticking out of the bottom!

I mean, it was effective.

Yeah.

It was hella effective!

It was very effective!

“Midnight, right? That’s less than an hour.” Midnight? Why is it always midnight? *chuckles*

*shrugs*

“’Fliers become die-rs.’” It’s like in “Lovers and Madmen.” He rigged all of those people to jump to their deaths.

Ohhhhhhhhh!!

*slaps knee* And it’s like in “Mad as a Hatter” [in Batman: The Animated Series], when he told those guys to jump in the river!

*gasps* Yeaahhhhh! Oh my gosh!

AN: Also, I highly recommend the comic “Lovers and Madmen.” Different interpretation of the Joker but still pretty solid and also quotable.

*wheezes when Bruce tries to give Detective Harper money to protect him*

*tries not to laugh when Bruce starts to fake cry*

*laughs when Bruce pulls a Stealth Hi-Bye on Harper*

Bruuucceee!

*gasps and claps hands* His [Jervis’s] theme in the background!

*jaw drops when it’s revealed that a lot of rooftops are lined by people ready to jump*

Ohhhhhh shit.

“Your ego, Bruce. It’s huge.” *tries not to laugh*

“Get over yourself. It’d make you a little easier to be around.” *both try not to laugh*

Oh...

Oh shit!

Oh... oh-

*Bruce ends up opening the door for Selina instead* Oh.

*groans in frustration*

That’s not a hug, I’m just getting the door for ya! *laughs*

*both laugh at Selina’s little giggle*

That little giggle, oh my God!

“You don’t owe me [Bruce] anything, Selina. You never did.” You two are adorable!

They’re cute!

“Geez, there’s a lot of gum under here!” *chuckles*

*whispers* What?

Ew no no no-

Oh no no-

*both yell loudly in disgust when Jerome eats some ABC gum*

You are crazy!

*chuckles*

“Jim, it’s happening all over the city. Thousands are climbing up roofs!” How many people are in this freaking city?!?

Probably at least a couple thousand, I’d say.

“He [Jervis] must’ve commanded them [the drivers] to change the station so that we couldn’t find him.” How complicated are these commands? It’s like explaining Kilgrave’s powers. Did he tell them to do that or...

“Ugh, it’s that song I [Harvey] hate!” *chuckles*

*jams out and sings along with “Foolish Pride” by LAB*

“Just right!” Oooh, broccoli cheddar [soup] though. Good choice.

“Mamma Mia!” *both start singing “Mamma Mia”*

“What was the special ingredient again? Ah, right. It was my [Jerome’s] hand. The one you [Uncle Zach] dipped in a boiling pot of chicken stock!” *both bug eyes*

“That smell, it was ...mouthwatering....” *shakes head in disgust*

You are disgusting, dude!

“I [Zach] set out three bowls of soup, nephew, so I’d have enough for all my guests.” [Crap]

*small gasp when the strong man drags Jerome out of the booth*

Ooh shit!

“The ‘just right’ soup is for him. The ‘cold’ is for me! I always loved gazpacho! The ‘too hot,’ that’s for you, nephew.” Ohhh shit!

Oh he’s gonna heat it again! Damn!

*jaw drops when the microwave starts shorting out*

Isn’t this the Iceberg?!?

No, it’s her [Barbara’s] lounge.

The Sirens, right?

Yeah.

*All the lights go out* Ooooooohhhhh!

Shit!

“We’re [the League] here for the Demon’s Head. Where is he?” “She.... is right here.” I call bullshit.

It’s a flashlight. I could make a joke out of that but I’m not going to.

*gasps when Hypnotized!Harvey knocks out Jim*

“Hickory, dickory, dock. The copper went up the clock. The clock struck 12, he fell pell-mell, and that was it for the cop.” *in unison* Noooooooooooooo.....

Ohhh dear.

*Zachary takes out the boiling soup for Jerome* Oh no.

*gasps when Zachary prepares to pour the boiling soup on Jerome*

“Here, nephew, have a taste of one of my three soups!” *in shock* Roll credits!

AN: The name of the episode actually came from in the writers’ room. Tze Chun came in having ordered 3 soups and Charlie Huston (the writer of this episode) said “I’m gonna put that in the script” and Tze Chun went “Yeah, right.” Welp.

*both yell in horror when Zachary pours the soup down Jerome’s throat*

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

OOOOHHHHHHHHHHH!!! [Jerome] You’re gonna have welts all over your face for a month, dude!

“No one deserves that.” “You tell ‘em!” *both have to stifle a laugh*

That is a very Joker moment, I have to say.

“Let him [Jerome] go... and get rid of the kid [Bruce].” *bug eyes*

*Bruce throws a bunch of plates at the strong man* Ohhhh shit!

Did he just No-Sell a porcelain plate to the face?!?

Yeah, he just did!

*both jaws drop in horror when Jerome finds the gallon of bleach meant for him*

He [Zach] was gonna poison his nephew!

“She’s [Barbara] got the Demon’s Head. Ra’s chose her.” “She doesn’t even know what it is.” Fair point.

I don’t know what that haircut is.

Whose haircut?

That dude’s!

He doesn’t have any hair!

Exactly!

“Women serve in the League, but they do not lead.” “That’s now a law, just a stupid tradition. Ra’s chose her. We need to honor his choice.” Barbara’s like “Yes, random lady, I accept you!”

*gasps when Barbara takes out the male League member who tried killing her first*

“Anyone else want a shot at the title?” Everybody does.

“Here comes the airplane!” *tries not to laugh*

“Got it. Lost it. Write it down!” Me in school.

*giggles when Jerome looks over at Bruce still fighting and does a quick second of fake shadow boxing*

*Jerome kills Zach* :(

“Boy billionare Bruce Wayne, my [Jerome’s] savior! Wow, I did not see that one coming.” *both chuckle*

“Really makes a man wonder... what the hell is wrong with you?!?” :[

*sighs* Ohhh dear...

*claps hands when Jim finds Jervis at the radio station* Let’s go!

How is he doing the whole hypnotizing thing?

It was over the radio.

Yeah, I know, but what does he use to do it?

He has a ticking mechanism.

Oh. Does he always keep that on him or what?

He always has that [pocket watch] on him. He goes “Look into my eyes and listen.”

Wait, if they can’t look into his eyes, then-

It’s the noise.

Oooohh kay.

It’s the stimuli.

*both yell and reel back in horror when Jim shoots Jervis’s hand*

What the hell was that for?!?

OK, here’s the thing: he [Jervis] got shot in the freaking hand!

And it’s like nothing!

I will say though, the rhyming integrated in with the dialogue is done really well!

*in unison when Selina comes to save the day* EEEEEYYYYYY!!!

*Bruce finally knocks out the strong man* Oooohhh.

“Selina, huh? Well isn’t that a nice name...” Go to hell.

*Selina pulls a gun on Jerome* Ohhh.

“Uh, uh, uh. She’s not that kind of girl.” Wanna bet?

“Oh, all right! See you crazy kids later! Ciao!” *both crack up*

“Ra’s chose me [Barbara] for a reason, I know it.” Looks like he was playing you for a stooge.

“You’re all so damn weak. That’s it. That is why Ra’s chose me. Because he knew I would see how pitiful you all are. Afraid of change.” Yeah, that’s gonna endear you to them.

*bug eyes when the lights suddenly go out and gunfire ensues*

Shhiit!

Whaaaaaat?!?

What the hell is going on?

*The midnight bells go off* Oooohhhh...

Noooo... nooooo....

Noooo.... we’re not doing this... noooo....

*both freak out in unison when the jumpers get ready*

*both freeze when there’s absolute radio silence*

“It worked!” *both let out a huge sigh of relief*

That was good. That was damn good!

*both giggle when the DJ gives Jim a thumbs up*

*Jim lets out a sigh of relief* Same.

*Jim and Harvey enter the captain’s office* That requires... some booze! No, I’m kidding.

I’d want some booze after that.

OK, yeah.

“You [Jim] need a drink.” *waves hand toward screen in agreement*

“Squirrels hide nuts for the winter. I [Harvey] got this for whenever.“ EEEEYYYYYYYY!!!

The hell is that?

BOOOOOOZZEE!

*both giggle*

That looks like scotch.

No, that’s whiskey. Like Fireball whiskey. See, Harvey’s the hard drinker.

Yeah. Gordon looks like he’s getting used to it.

He’s like “It’s dull. Whatever.” *pretends to take a shot* It’s like Steve Rogers.

As long as it’s alcohol.

For glory, for justice-

*in unison* -for sweet, sweet booze!

“[Jim] You know what I [Harvey] was thinking when I jumped in that car and I was flicking through those channels? I was thinking ‘I can do this crazy thing. ‘Cause if it goes sideways, Jim Gordon will save me.” *both smile*

“Feet of clay are heavy to carry around. That’s what the whiskey’s for.” *softly chuckles*

“There are no heroes here.” I will clink to that!

“Got the Wayne kid on line three. Something about Valeska.” Oh dear.

“I’ll see you at St. Ignatius, Jim. You can yell at me [Bruce] there.” *softly* Hoooooooo.... hoo hoo....

“Kid in trouble again?” “More than he can handle.” Summary of the show.

They put a mouthguard on him [Jervis]!

At least somebody’s gotta shut him up.

*Scarecrow douses a guard with fear toxin* AAAAYYYYYYY!!!

Scarecrow!

*Jerome in his final costume* EEEEEYYYYY!!

“How do you like the new threads?” I like ‘em a lot!

Those are awesome!

*gasps and points excitedly at Scarecrow’s new costume*

“We have fish to fry. And by fish, I mean faces... or feet... ah, something fun to fry!” *laughs*

Man, he [Jerome] looks so good. So does Scarecrow!

I know! Everyone looks great!

Scarecrow looks amazing!

“ALL ABOOOOAAARRDD!” Hey look, the Joker hijacks another truck!

And that’s the end of the episode!

Man, that was awesome!

#Gotham #gotham spoilers #one of my three soups #the blogger reacts #jervis tetch #jerome valeska #jonathan crane #scarecrow #jim gordon #harvey bullock #selina kyle #bruce wayne #barbara kean #ra's al ghul #tabitha galavan #ben mckenzie #benedict samuel #looked at the stars and considered a reaction #q post

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ficklefics · 4 years

Text

Friends Like These: Chapter Twenty-Two - Inescapable

A New Year is a new start for Harleen.

SERIES MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

Chapter Warnings: None

I have to say, I look good in red.

I spin from side to side in the mirror, admiring myself in the uniform. Not the most flattering thing in the world, but not terrible either. My hair is twisted back into a tight bun, practical and out of the way, fixed with a black ribbon. I’m ready. Jacket on – a Christmas present to replace my ruined one – and shoes, purse over my shoulder and keys in hand. Time to go.

I take the elevator down to the building garage and grin at the sight of my motorbike. She’s beautiful. Bag locked away, helmet on. It’s gonna be a good day. I can feel it.

“Harleen, it’s great to see you,” Director Williams shakes my hand over his desk before gesturing for me to take a seat; I do so gladly. “You too, Director. I’m glad that I was still able to work here considering…” I trail off, not sure what words to use. “Considering Jerome?” I nod. “He’s definitely been quite a problem for you, hasn’t he?” “That’s an understatement.” I chuckle. “Well, hopefully, he won’t be a problem anymore. I’ve arranged your shifts so that you will never have to interact with him or even see him ideally. You’re very rarely even on his wing.” “Which wing is he on?” I ask, intrigued. “High-security, of course,” He smiles reassuringly and moves on quickly, “There’s a locker assigned to you, you can leave your personal possessions there. You’ll be reporting to Dr Stevenson – she’ll give you your rota and assignments. Now, would you like a tour?” “I think I’m alright, if it’s all the same to you. I last time I got a tour I met Jerome,” I shrug, letting out a slight laugh, and after a second of hesitation, the director joins in, uncomfortable. “I understand,” He stands up, showing me out of his office, “Well, if you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.” “I won’t.” With a final exchange of polite smiles, the door is closed behind me. Here we go.

Locker 014. Empty but for my helmet, jacket and bag. I close it and turn to find a young woman a few years older than me. I flinch instinctively and she steps back, concern immediately flooding her face. “Oh, shit. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to surprise you.” “It’s okay,” I brush her apology aside. She sticks a hand out, grinning. “I’m Molly.” I take her hand and shake it slowly. “Harleen.” “I know.” She steps away, opening up a locker a few down from mine. “I’m a nursing student on placement here. What’s your deal? Other than the obvious stuff that everyone knows.” I sit on one of the benches, uncertain whether to be wary or intrigued. “That depends. What’s the obvious stuff?” She turns to me as she closes her locker, a bottle of water now in hand, and grin still fixed on her face. “Rich kid gone wrong. You got kidnapped by Jerome Valeska, you escaped, you got expelled -” Voluntary left flickers through my brain but I keep listening, “- And then he attacked your New Years party, and now he’s back in Arkham. Did I miss anything?” “Nothing that anyone needs to know. And my deal? Paid volunteer until college.” “Paid volunteer? But-” “Yeah, doesn’t make sense, but it’s a legal thing.” While I have a nursing qualification, it’s not a full one and I can’t technically be employed as a nurse. But, like Molly said: rich kid. “Well, it’s good to meet you, paid volunteer.” She smiles at me, taking a final swig of her water and putting it away. “You too,” She seems nice. Maybe too nice, but I don’t want to judge too fast. “What’s your rota like for today?” She sits down next to me and pulls out a schedule, and I pull out mine to match. “I’m on general check-ups with Dr Keely in the morning, then vaccinations with Dr Jordan. How about you?” “Oh, the opposite,” She groans jokingly, “Would have been nice to have a bit of companionship.” “It would have. But at least we can warn each other of anything.” I chuckle, and she joins in. This feels like it might be a friendship.

Two weeks have passed. I’ve fallen into a good routine at Arkham. Working there is far more fulfilling than grinding through endless days of school ever was. In the short time we’ve worked together Molly and I have become friends. Eating lunch together when we can, encouraging each other through night shifts, grabbing coffee early in the morning before we come in or after we finish. Despite the age gap, we gel well. It’s nice having a friend who’s normal. It makes me feel more normal. As normal as I can feel. The heels of my shows click as I hurry down the corridor, desperate to be on time. It’s my first day in High Security. I flash my badge at the guard who stands at the gate, and he lets me in quickly. I’ve managed to calm my nerves, but before I can take more than a few steps down the corridor the screaming of an alarm shocks my ears, warning lights filling my vision. “What’s happening?” The flashing lights blind me, turning the corridor red. Suddenly they snap off. The guard at the gate turns to me, a voice crackling through his radio. “There’s a disturbance in the Women’s Wing. Protocol is for every wing to go on lockdown. Just a precaution.” He assures me. “Okay.” I nod, my hands wringing my skirt. “Sure.” He looks my nervous form over. “Stick with me. You’ll be alright.” He gives me a crooked grin, strangely comforting, and I smile back. The slight ease I feel is quickly destroyed when another guard appears behind us, jogging, out of breath. “You need to come with me, nurse.” “What’s wrong?” “There was a fight. An inmate got boiling soup thrown on him, and there’s no one on the ward.” He looks at me apologetically. “You’re the only nurse on the wing, and with the lockdown, we can’t get anyone else.” I take a breath and calm myself. “Okay; shall we?”

Something’s off. The way the guard looked. His wish of “Good luck” as I venture alone down the final stretch of corridor towards the ward. Another guard stands waiting. “He’s restrained, so you don’t have anything to worry about. Just don’t listen to anything he says.” I step past him, hand raised to push open the door when I see through the window to the rows of beds. There’s only one occupant, and he’s immediately recognisable. “I can’t go in there.” I step back, shaking my head, but strong hands stop me from moving any further away. “You’ll be fine. I’ll be right outside the whole time.” “No, you don’t understand. Don’t you know who I am?” I cringe internally at how self-centred I sound. “Should I?” He doesn’t care. “I’m Harleen Quinzel.” Nothing. “He kidnapped me last October, attacked me and my family at New Years. I’m not allowed to be in contact with him. You need to get another nurse.” “There isn’t anyone else. Do your job.” He pushes me forward through the doors, making me stumble. Once I’ve regained my balance I keep my head up, staring straight past him to the opposite end of the room. No fear. I can feel Jerome’s eyes on me as I cross to the supply cupboard. I just want this to be done. I pull out rubbing alcohol, burn cream, and gauze, and carry them over to the bed where he is strapped down. I let out a small smirk at the irony – Jerome trapped, and me free. My glee immediately dissipates when Jerome speaks. “Now, what’s a girl like you doing in a place like this?” I ignore him, trying to figure out how I’m going to treat Jerome’s industries if I refuse to look at him. “Silent treatment, eh?” I force myself to look over him, avoiding his eyes. Burns trail down his face and under the collar of his shirt, continuing down if the soup staining the off-white fabric indicates anything. I need to take his shirt off. Shit. I grit my teeth and take a hold of his collar. I look up at him, making eye contact with him for the first time since I came in. “If you say anything, I will hurt you. And the guard won’t stop me.” “Oh, I know you will.” Jerome nods in mock seriousness. I unbutton his shirt to the base of his ribs and spread it open. I do my best to ignore the slight fluttering I feel at the sight of his bare chest and focus on his injuries. It’s not as bad as it could have been – they’re only minor and can be quickly treated. Compared to the scars that litter his body, these are nothing. I bite my tongue, flipping my brain into work mode. Cold compress. Antiseptic. Burn cream. Bandage. I follow the steps robotically until I’m finished with his chest. I feel his eyes following me the entire time, but he doesn’t make a sound. Not even a wince or a hiss of pain. It’s like he’s not even human. I hesitate, torn between my desire not to speak to him and the responsibility to do my job correctly. “I’m obliged to tell you that this will probably hurt, but I need you to stay as still as possible. Otherwise, I might stab you in the eye.” “Sure thing, nurse.” He winks at me. “Would have been nice if you could have warned me last time though.” I roll my eyes before I repeat the process with the burns on his face. I notice that there are still bruises on his face, his lip still burst. A jolt of pride makes me smile internally. I damaged him. I left my mark on him for once, rather than his mark on me. As I work, I can’t help feeling the leathery skin that frames his face, the dry, cracked seams where it was reattached. Not how I imagined it. It shouldn’t feel like this. “Don’t you get any treatment for these?” I wonder aloud, placing a final dressing just below his jaw. “You think the people here actually care about what treatment we need?” He chuckles darkly. “You’re more naïve than I thought, Harls.” “Don’t call me that. What about these?” I gesture to the now-covered burns, and he rolls his eyes. “Bribery. Needed to make sure I got in here. Goad someone into throwing boiling soup on me – ooh, remind me to tell you about Uncle Zach some time – and threaten the guards a bit. Easy.” He talks as though it’s obvious. But- “Wait, you wanted to be in here? Why?” Part of me already knows the answer, but I hope it’s anything else. “To see you, obviously.” I groan in frustration, walking away from him to dig through the cupboards. “What, you’re not flattered?” “This can’t go on Jerome.” I find what I’m looking for and return to stand at the foot of the bed. “This obsession needs to stop.” “Why? Why should I stop? I know, deep down, you don’t really want me to.” “You don’t know anything about me Jerome Valeska.” I storm to his side, opening the tub of moisturiser and starting on his forehead. I know I’m proving him right, but I can’t stop myself. “You should really be getting this twice a day, but under the circumstances, it’ll have to be once a week.” I finish with the thick, raised skin that frames his face and move on to the thinner scars that circle his eyes. His eyes flutter shut and I let a slight smile grace my lips. I haven’t seen him this vulnerable since that night on the roof – I doubt he has either. All that’s left is his lips. They’re dry and chapped. It’s a miracle they’re not permanently bleeding. I pull out a tube of lip salve. As I begin applying it to his lips, I speak. “Don’t you dare make any jokes right now.” “Wouldn’t dream of it,” He mutters. I switch back to the moisturiser, running it across the gruesome carved smile. His eyes are open again; they watch me as I finish and put down the tub. “All done, nurse?” Somehow his mocking is becoming less and less irritating. “This -” I hold up the moisturiser “- whole face, twice a day. This -” lip salve this time “- lips, when you wake up, when you go to bed, and after meals.” I put the tub and tube into his hand and close his fingers around them. “Minimum. And you’ll need to get seen by a nurse every week for check-ups. Not me, someone else.” I step back and call the guard in, explaining what I’ve given him. I leave as the guard begins to unstrap him, turning to glance over my shoulder at Jerome as I cross the threshold back into the corridor. He watches my every step.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

SERIES MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST

#flt #friends like these #jerome valeska fanfic #jerome valeska fanfiction #jerome valeska #jerome valeska/harleen quinzel #jerome valeska x harleen quinzel #Gotham #gotham fanfic #gotham imagine #gotham fanfiction

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