IC; Duplicity Inbox

[redrighthanded]

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[nothinglikefather]

[ Jacob is trying so hard not to tremble too, but failing. He's not as good at controlling himself as he thinks, be it his impulses or his body. But the way Hellboy pulls him in close distracts him from his failings, all of them. He's safe, he's loved, although that might still be on shaky ground, and his life is valued. Not by those who see him as a tool, a highly trained soldier, a means to an end, but as a person.

It's more than he deserves, and he knows it.

He takes a breath, realising that he might accidentally smother himself against the other man's skin, and tries to swallow back the answer that is always quick to his lips, the lesson all assassins are taught: his life is nothing compared to the people he must save.]

They might hurt me. But that means they'd have to catch me.

[redrighthanded]

[ In the context of the conversation it's not a joke at all, but Hellboy allows himself the ghost of a smile anyway, if only because he likes to hear Jacob's confidence. He's pretty sure the young assassin could give whoever he wanted a run for their money, though he doesn't relish the thought of finding out.

He strokes his hand down Jacob's back, feeling that trembling tension in him, wondering what he can do to soothe it. ]

Hey, they'd have to fight me too. And I'm pretty sure I can make most of them regret trying. [ He makes a thoughtful noise, reaching up to brush his fingertips over the back of Jacob's head. ] You sure you don't want anything stronger than tea?

[nothinglikefather]

They'd have to fight you too huh? I hope they've got insurance.

[ The bare hint of a smile is nice, and it makes him long for the broader, easier smiles Hellboy used to turn his way. Instead he keeps his breathing as measured as he can make it, and shakes his head in reply to the question.]

Not to drink. Get myself into some real shite if I do. Besides, what's stronger than you? Not much.

[ He turns his head, putting his cheek on Hellboy's warm chest, and tries not to think about what would happen if they did catch him again.]

[redrighthanded]

I dunno, I've met some pretty strong guys.

[ The banter is easier than talking about anything more painful, but the tension is still there. Hellboy's not about to break the hug though, not until the water in the pot starts hissing as it boils. Outside, the rain starts to come down more heavily, rattling against the roof of the warehouse. ]

C'mon, you wanna watch some TV? Might help take your mind off things.

[nothinglikefather]

Me for a start. But somehow I don't think those guys are as smart as you.

[He hears the pan start to boil and his fingers close on Hellboy's clothes. He wants a cuppa, he does, but he wants Hellboy not to let go of him just let. But after a second, he reluctantly eases his grip.]

That's the... play that's recorded right?