daredevil

“Mmm-- yeah, ‘went away’ is certainly the watered down version. But I’m alright.” For the first time in a while, Matt was able to say that with some truth to it. “There were a lot of things I needed to work out. Things got complicated, but it’s okay. I’m right where I’m supposed to be.”

“Well you’re an Avenger, aren’t you? I just assumed it was your team that came up with all this-- I think most people do. They’re still looking to the heroes even if they still carry a lot of bitter feelings with them.”

“She and I tend to get into trouble pretty easily when we’re together. Bad people do bad things and we get caught in the middle. And usually I’m not fast enough to stop her from.. you know.” Matt trailed off. “I died with her the last time, and yet we’re both still here somehow. Doesn’t make much sense.”

“I remember that-- that was you? I’m hoping there’s a reason other than the menu for you to have blown it up.”

“Right-- that. I won’t tell you that you need to get over it, Jess. But--” He shrugged. “Seems like I won’t be going anywhere. Is this how we’re going to start every conversation?”

“Really? Same management and everything? That’s actually pretty disappointing.” 

“For sure. People watching is an art, if you ask me.”

“Oh yes-- the horrors of an empty stomach. I’m more of a boxer myself. Much less graceful but still physically draining.”

“Oh? What exactly is it?”

“So perceptive.” Matt replied, reaching out gently to take her hand and loop it under his arm. “Are we calling this a date?”

“For all we know, we could be ghosts.” His tone was teasing but soft, lips curving into a smile. “Maybe everything that’s happened after that building collapsed on us has been a bad dream, or maybe we’re actually here. But you’re right-- it doesn’t matter why or how anymore, does it? It’s tiring to try and make sense of it all.”

“Hm. Sounds unique. Do they hold any meaning for you or was it a purely aesthetic reason?”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Matt paused. “I’m sure they would want you to move on, find others to connect to. Is that what you want?”

“It’s surprising how difficult having friends can be. Making friends, keeping them, not screwing things up. I’d like to think going about life alone is a bit easier, but it’s proven to me that it isn’t.”

“Why do I find that so hard to believe?”