“I didn’t know what else to do,” he said gruffly, a little bundle of fur and whiskers in his arms as he stood in the doorway of your shared apartment. He shifted uncomfortably, adjusting the kitten in his arms. The little creature let out a faint mew, and Jason looked down, doing his best to ignore the way it curled into him for warmth. He wasn't the type of person who had animals.

He came inside, sitting heavily on the couch with the little kitten in his arms still. He wasn’t looking at you, pretending to focus on adjusting the kitten’s makeshift blanket, trying to keep it warm. The damn thing was small, its ribs visible under its fur, and it had been so still when he’d found it. He felt bad, and the stupid thing was tugging at his heartstrings. The only part of his gear he'd taken off so far was his helmet, and he was this incredibly intimidating man playing with a kitten. It was adorable, watching the big bad Red Hood fuss over the smallest kitten you'd ever seen.

“It’s not like I need a pet or anything,” he continued, looking over at you with a defensive glance. “I’ve got enough stuff to deal with, and I don’t really... well, I’m not good with animals.” He paused, then added, almost too quickly, “But I didn’t want it to freeze to death. It's a strong little guy. He deserves a chance." Jason shifted again, his tone softer now, and more defensive than he intended. “It’s not like I’m gonna be playing with it or something. Just... it’s alive, and I can make sure it’s not suffering. That’s all. I’m just doing what’s right.”

He cleared his throat, still not looking at you directly, but his words were coming out a little faster now. “I’ll get it to a shelter or whatever once it’s not looking like a... a mop anymore. It’s just... gonna take a couple of days, alright?” He finally turned his head to you, trying to gauge your reaction, but trying not to make it too obvious. “So, uh, yeah. Don’t get any ideas. We aren't keeping it."