WARNING: RISK OF EXPLOSION.

-

She’s called him a simp before–always teasing, always joking–even if it was extremely true. And she chose to ignore the fact that she simps just as hard for him. Love was a weird concept, but she’s starting to accept that it had a very prominent place in her life. It was dangerous in their line of work, but they were two of the toughest badasses that she’s ever met. If anyone could make it work, it would be them. 

Lily gives out a ticklish squeal, jumping up at the touch and scrunching her nose. “I’m not kinkshaming, I swear. I think it’s kind of hot that strong women turn you on,” she teases lightly. 

She gives a little sigh, leaning into his touch. Homelander was unstable, dangerous, and has otherwise proven (she hopes) to the world that he’s a psychopath. Outing Maeve? Who the fuck did he think he was? That was a stupid question–but it just cemented how much of a piece of shit he was. A surge of guilt spreads in her chest, she’d brought this plague into her own life and by proxy any person she gave her heart to after. If anything happened to Jet because of her…

She wouldn’t know what to do.

Her lips curl up in a fond smile, brows arching in consideration until he breaks away from her. Her smile dims a little but still remains on her features. He wasn’t fluent in speaking feelings–but she knew he cared. She moves around him and unhooks her window, climbing out onto the staircase. “Hey, feisty is a good thing. You don’t lock a good thing up in an apartment,” she teases, letting him off the hook. “Not to mention I’d find my way out.”

-

He’d deny it hell and back whenever she joked about him ‘simping’ over her. So what if he was crazy about her? What if he was determined to make the relationship work because he knew she’d be worth it? His previous relationships didn’t end well; not that both parties left on bad terms, but it was disheartening (not to mention tiring) that the time and effort he had invested in the relationship went to nothing. He was prepared to give up the idea of having relationships and settling down and those things – until that fateful kiss on the rooftop.

And from the way Lily acted around him, she sure reciprocated the feelings.

Watching her reaction, Jet smirked mischievously. “Somebody’s ticklish it seems,” he said. Oh, he had every intention of exploiting this knowledge someday in the future. “Why wouldn’t strong women turn people on? I swear people are weird.”

It was little moments like these that made him appreciate her so much. He ought to take a step back and relish in it. That wouldn’t be so bad, right? Slowing down for once. It seemed like his life had always operated in two modes – autopilot (with someone steering his life towards one particular direction) and acceleration (with him always playing catch up with... fuck, he didn’t even know what or who he had to catch up to). It wouldn’t be so bad to take over the steering wheel and taking control.

“I won’t be surprised if you got out,” he chuckled as he followed her outside. He had to crouch down as to not bump his head. “Alright, so where to, ma’am?” he asked. “Which part of New York is the most invested with muggers and bad guys?”

Lexi nods before taking a sip of her tea. When Jet asked her about being threatened she looks around before answering and leaning in again. For all she knew, Vought had ears and eyes everywhere. “You know that thing he does where it’s an unspoken threat, but it’s also very clearly a threat? It was that. It was pretty clear that if I discussed the project with anyone else that it wouldn’t be pretty.” She sighs. “Why?” 

-

If there was a thing he respected about Homelander is that he knew how to cover his bases. His methods are questionable and unethical (not like Jet hadn’t dabbled in his own fair share of plotting and scheming), but there’s a certain meticulousness to his work. “I know,” Jet said. “And I’m not going to push you to tell me. Wouldn’t want him to do whatever it is he threatened you with.” He sipped his coffee. “Just wanted to know. I like keeping up with what everyone’s doing. Keeps my horizons... broadened. If that’s even the correct word to use.”

“Yeah. Happy doin’ my own thing wi’ my mates. The comedown an’ hangover can be a shit but I’ve got used to it now.” Bein’ asked if he was happy didn’t get asked to him an’ he didn’t really mind it. Somethin’ was always goin’ on. “Saw your lot on th’ news wit’ your medals. Congrats on tha’.” The splotlight on it had dimmed it a bit since Maeve was outed. “They’ll be announcin’ a movie for you soon.”

-

He simply nodded at the other’s answer. He wished that the other’s life could turn around, because – no matter how much Blarney Cock was painting it as happy – his life seemed hollow when the drugs and the booze were removed. “Thanks, appreciate it, man,” Jet smiled. “No movies, hopefully. I don’t feel like acting right now.” But, of course, the triumphant moment had to be undercut by Homelander. “I’m not the only one makin’ headlines, though. That dick Homelander had to out Maeve’s secrets.”

“I cleared out a terrorist cell on my own and it took me about 5 minutes. That was even when I was taking my time.” Taking his time so he could really enjoy the whole thing and savour it but nobody needed to know that. “You required a whole team. Tell you what, why don’t we have a little challenge. You take down one cell on your own and I’ll do it. We’ll do it at the same time and see which one of us gets the job done faster and better.” Vought wouldn’t allow it but he didn’t care. “No damage control. Maeve was scared to come out so I helped her. Now she, Elena and that ginger supe son of hers can play happy family. I never said she owed me anything.”

-

“You say that like working in a team is a bad thing,” Jet retorted, attempting to change the subject. His blood was boiling, but he knew he had to remain calm. It’s not like Jet wouldn’t be able to do that. With his new powers, Jet could do it, right? The question now lies on whether Jet could get those powers out of control. What if it won’t be long before he accidentally ‘explodes’ again. “And what? Are you going to livestream the challenge for the whole world to watch?” He shook his head. “Can they really?” Jet was all too familiar with the way Vought commercialised every aspect of people’s lives. “You know Vought is going to milk the shit out of this, right? And you said you have no ulterior motives.”

He nodded a little at the other’s realisation, but didn’t comment. Hearing what Jet was saying, Richard knew he was right to move here. Yet, he was surprised to hear these things from a Vought employee, it wasn’t the corporate talk he was used to hearing when Vought became a topic. “It’s alright.” He echoed the chuckle. “Ben is young and reckless, he doesn’t think of the consequences of his actions for the most part, and thinks ahead even less. That’s why I’m concerned about him wanting to be in the Seven.” It was almost an obsession, Richard believed. 

-

It wasn’t much of a surprise that a young supe is aiming for The Seven. It’s every single one of their dreams – hell, even Jet went through a phase like that. Jet didn’t doubt Shockwave’s capability (as a speedster, Vought could get actual statistical information to kick out A-Train) and he had no problem supporting the younger supe, but hearing his father’s side of the story was completely different. Here, he understood the worries and the effects greed could bring. “Do you think he could make it?”

Brook wasn’t stupid. She knew he wasn’t really thankful; she could hear the sarcasm practically dripping from his tone. Sometimes she wondered why she even tried making Payback’s home an enjoyable place for everyone. The building was so dull and dreary and boring, even more so before she’d joined the team. She just wanted it to be somewhere they could all come together and enjoy each other’s company, yet no one seemed to appreciate her efforts.

“Exactly. You make money so you can have fun. Why the fuck else would anyone make money? And I don’t see you having any fun outside work either, so you might as well get some here,” she scoffed. Jet was starting to get on her nerves with his pessimism. Was there a day the guy didn’t just relax? “You know, you need to fucking calm your shit, you’re starting to remind me of Soldier Boy.”

-

The concept of making money to have fun was foreign to Jet. While it wasn’t something he grew averse to after experiencing consequences, he had observed other supes for too long to realise that reputation is a feeble thing. Having fun would lead to recklessness and Jet was in no mood to jeopardise his current lifestyle. He decided not to indulge her with an answer, because, regardless of what he said, she was going to rebut him – which would only lead to an argument where both of the stubborn parties won’t yield.

“Don’t you dare compare me to that fuckin’ robot,” Jet snarled. “I am nothing like him.” He wished he could calm down, but the rage within him was proving too hard to control. He paced around, as if it was a cry for help for someone to help him process his conflicting emotions. “Just tell them to go home. I’m in no mood to deal with them,” he said. “Please.”

“Fair enough. I’m sure I’ll get to put my hands on you eventually, one way or another,” Brook answered, not missing a beat. Her chocolate eyes were still studying him intently, trying to figure out where he stood. In the new dynamic she had within this new team, was he going to be an ally or would he just get in her way?

At his question, Brook reached down to grab her Louis Vuitton travel bag from the floor, hauling the strap over her shoulder. “No, actually. Lead the way. I’m dying to see my room.”

-

He tilted his head in amusement. The way she worded it made it seem like it was a challenge to her – which only made him more alarmed. Unknowingly, he stepped back, shooting her a smile to soften the (arguably rude) act. He gestured towards the elevator before walking towards it.

“Don’t get your hopes up,” he chuckled. “It’s not as big as you’d imagine.” That was, in fact, his first reaction. He entered the elevator and pressed the floor where Brook’s quarter is located. He nodded towards her bag. “I’m surprised you only have one bag for your move.”

-

Lily smiles against his lips, cupping his face lightly in her hands. She knows if she has it bad, then he’s riding along in the same boat. Their connection meant something to her, something good and pure–something that worries and excites her. She loves having someone to trust like this, someone to be vulnerable and calm with. Even if they loved teasing the hell out of each other–she knew that if someone said something bad about the other, all hell would break loose.

At least on her end. She’d kick someone’s ass for saying something rude about Jet.

She smooths a thumb against his cheek and arches a brow. “You’ve got the weirdest fetish, I swear,” she jokes, shaking her head. She turns and digs through her closet, pulling out an oversized hoodie and tucking it over her head. She’s well aware that she looks like Baby Yoda in the hoodie–but she’s accepted it. She’s teeny. 

Her fear isn’t just nosy fans–although, they would get annoying, she thinks. Her fear is that someone (like that giant human adaption of a dildo named Homelander) would hurt Jet to get to her. She knows he said he doesn’t care, but with him, she has to play it very carefully. No risks. Still, she knows it’s an impossible feat to hide it for the rest of their lives. 

Sooner or later Vought would want to capitalize on another Supe couple. And Lily didn’t want the media and the press to do to them what they did to Maeve and Homelander. It makes her sick.

Sighing softly, she stuffs her hands through the sleeves of the hoodie, smiling at his dedication. “I want to go out with you. I don’t want people to feel entitled to every little detail in our relationship…but I…” She pauses and peeps up at him from beneath the hood. “My feelings are getting stronger and I know that someday, I won’t want to hide us. I want you to be safe though.”

-

It was odd how happy she makes him and she didn’t even have to do much. She could be sending something as simple as a smile his way and that would melt him instantly. He finally realised what those people mean when they say that love makes you weak. Not that he feels weak, he felt more alive than he’s ever been. But he quickly came to the conclusion that if anything were to happen to Lily, that would break him.

“Don’t shame me,” he snorted. “It’s not my fault I like strong women.” He poked her sides and proceeded to watch her slip on the hoodie. He bit back a grin over how cute she looked and the excitement over their adventure.

But there were other things to worry about.

He listened to her intently, taking her face in his hands once more, slipping his fingers into her hair. He craned his neck down to meet her gaze, hoping that would show his understanding over the situation. The previous person she... entangled with is the shittiest person to ever lived, as proven by how he recently outed his teammate’s secrets. And Jet’s newly acquired medal does not guarantee his safety forever – or hers for that matter – but for now, it provided a shield of sorts. ‘Recent presidential medal awardee found dead’ does not make for a good headline.

Yet, it warmed his heart that she worried for him. “My feelings for you...” he hesitated, a bit shy in speaking the words into existence. “They’re also strong.” He said it in a rushed manner, hoping she wouldn’t catch how he was falling deeper. Still, he got carried away. “So trust me when I say I won’t do anything stupid that would worry you – unless it is to keep you safe because god knows I...” He trailed off and stopped himself, intimidated by the sudden shift of mood. He let go of her to move to the nearest window, trying to find an opening for them (or so he told himself, he just needed a moment to breathe). “...might have to lock you up in an apartment, because – let’s be honest – you can be a bit too feisty.”

In which Jet called his mother to ask her about Compound V.

Gif chat / para replies – 150 (15 posts)

Meme responses – 30 (6 posts)

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WEEKLY TOTAL – 180

OVERALL TOTAL – 1775

At Jet’s question, Richard took a long sip from drink, thinking of how he should answer. Normally, he just said his son was a social media influencer, since he’d been asked not to get involved in anything supe or Vought-related, but Richard didn’t want to lie to Jet. He motioned his head a little towards Vought Tower. “He doesn’t like me talking about it, but… He works for Vought. Goes fast, wears orange. ”

-

The realisation hit him. “Oh, shit.” He lowered his voice. “Your son is Shockwave?” Now that he think about it, he could see some family resemblance. “No wonder you moved here.” Jet tapped his foot, wondering if he should talk about their meeting. “He’s a good kid, honestly. I met him once. Good but really ambitious.” A beat. “You gotta a close eye on him, make sure he doesn’t burn himself ‘cause he got too to the sun. The whole world is alluring but it can destructive.” He paused then chuckled. “Sorry, I probably didn’t help did I?”

“I guess so. We ain’t ever had anyone come an’ tell us to do anythin’ or watchin’ over us. We got the house and Vought send us out on assignments or for the movies but tha’ is it. Nothin’ like you lot or the other groups.” An’ it was just how they all liked it. “Tha’ ain’t how I’d want it but its how Vought’ll do it.” He wanted to joke about it but there was a bit of seriousness in it. “For anyone in your group you would get a whole movie an’ they’d charge triple for the tickets.”

-

Jet didn’t know whether he should feel sorry or not. On one hand, it was horrible for them to be left alone and essentially used by the company just when they were needed, then discarded. On the other hand, being suffocated by handlers and their incessant nagging isn’t fun either. Regardless, he realised that he probably had it better than the kids in Teenage Kix. That’s probably why they drowned and numbed themselves using all the drugs and alcohol and partying. “You happy, though?” he asked.

“Do I?” he asked rhetorically but full of anger and spite. Something about Jet just got under his skin and he hated the other supe. “You don’t give me any impression, you’re not relevant enough for that.” Still, he was annoyed at Payback. “Why do you even care? You don’t know Maeve, you have no interest in her or her girlfriend or her secret bastard. It doesn’t concern you.” So many people wanting to get involved. “I didn’t want a headline. I helped her and her girlfriend out so now they don’t have to hide. They should be thanking me. Now they can have whatever life they want and not hide in shame.” It was completely done as a power move over Maeve. “Great. Go kill it somewhere else.”

-

“Sure,” Jet curtly said. “Even if Payback was the one who got to the terrorist before you...” He trailed off, pretending to look around the meeting room. It’s fancy, that’s for sure. “That’s what you say, but I’ve been in the business long enough to know that people don’t do things just because they care. Turn the attention away from your failure towards something else, right? Classic damage control.” And maybe, Jet does care. It wasn’t Homelander’s secret to share and who was he to decide how the information goes out. “Maeve don’t owe you shit.” He clicked his tongue. “Maybe. I should go downstairs and meet the fans.”