♙ 1

[howruthless]

[at first, there's silence.

The silence is then followed by gasps and sobs as Tess is forced into a sitting position like there's been a shock of adrenaline to her system. It takes a moment for her to catch her breath, and get herself oriented again, and when she does -- this isn't Metropolis Gen. In fact, this isn't even close]

What the hell?

[if you didn't know better, you might even say that there was a twinge of fear in her voice, but she'd never admit to it if she knew anyone was listening]

Is anyone there?

[a beat]

Chloe?

[it takes her a minute to get her legs under her, but she does, slowly and cautiously making her way to the door. She pulls it open, sees her name on the door, and slams it shut again.]

I repeat. What the hell.

Comments

[yeahihidmypants]

Tess, it is nice to see you.

[howruthless]

[a pause]

I have to admit -- that's a bit strange coming from you.

[yeahihidmypants]

I'm sure it is, but... you were here and I thought we were actually getting along - and then you were gone.

Having this chance is nice.

[howruthless]

[that ... makes her a little bit happier than it should be. She isn't sure that she can trust it, though, so she clamps down on it, and just nods]

I guess it is.

[yeahihidmypants]

Look, I should let you settle in and figure out what other questions you need answers for.

[howruthless]

[nods]

I know how to find you.

[yeahihidmypants]

[He nods and reaches to give her shoulder a squeeze.]

I hope you do.

[howruthless]

[glances over at his hand for a moment, before nodding]

I'll see you around, Ollie.

[yeahihidmypants]

[He nods and moves to leave her be. He'll check in on her later.]