[That one-eyed stare—the color too much like still, stagnant water in the dead of night—is more than a little unnerving. And yet he holds it nonetheless. Because, despite what the other boy claims, Stiles scents a potential victory in the air between them. The simple fact of the matter is that the stranger has yet to take off, that he continues to humor Stiles. Actions, belying the weight of dismissive words.]
Kinda premature to call my decisions ridiculous when you don’t know anything about my situation or motivations. [This isn’t the first time he’s needed to justify the choice to travel into the Below. Stiles doesn’t regret coming here.] Guess I’ll fill you in.
[Except the moment drags on, his countenance twisting indecisively.]
Well, first… I don’t trust you, but—thanks. [Though his obvious reluctance to offer gratitude undoubtedly comes off as rude, Stiles can’t help anticipating betrayal the second that he lowers his guard.] For stepping in earlier.
[A better person would clear Sasuke of all imagined “accountability.” Stiles doesn’t have that luxury.]
I’m a new Shard-Bearer, [he begins, lowering his voice to avoid being overheard.] I get that I don’t look like much, but I’ve been around the block enough times to know what’s a good use of my time—and livelihood, for that matter. Now, this shithole is the best kind of place to dig up some of the secrets that they’re hiding from us back up top. I mean, that’s obvious, isn’t it? Maybe it’s even why you’re here to begin with. [Stiles shifts his weight to the other hip, swallowing back the urgent need to pace.] Investigation is what I do best, okay? [His lips part on several following statements—each and every one a mulish defense of his ability. Ultimately useless, all of them. Why would some stranger believe him?] If you agree to, uh, escort me…I’ll let you in on whatever I find out.
[Stiles finally looks away, mouth a sharp line of frustration. Already he suspects Sasuke will refuse. Failure to earn the faith of others—from his dad to Scott to the pack—has soured him.]
no subject
Kinda premature to call my decisions ridiculous when you don’t know anything about my situation or motivations. [This isn’t the first time he’s needed to justify the choice to travel into the Below. Stiles doesn’t regret coming here.] Guess I’ll fill you in.
[Except the moment drags on, his countenance twisting indecisively.]
Well, first… I don’t trust you, but—thanks. [Though his obvious reluctance to offer gratitude undoubtedly comes off as rude, Stiles can’t help anticipating betrayal the second that he lowers his guard.] For stepping in earlier.
[A better person would clear Sasuke of all imagined “accountability.” Stiles doesn’t have that luxury.]
I’m a new Shard-Bearer, [he begins, lowering his voice to avoid being overheard.] I get that I don’t look like much, but I’ve been around the block enough times to know what’s a good use of my time—and livelihood, for that matter. Now, this shithole is the best kind of place to dig up some of the secrets that they’re hiding from us back up top. I mean, that’s obvious, isn’t it? Maybe it’s even why you’re here to begin with. [Stiles shifts his weight to the other hip, swallowing back the urgent need to pace.] Investigation is what I do best, okay? [His lips part on several following statements—each and every one a mulish defense of his ability. Ultimately useless, all of them. Why would some stranger believe him?] If you agree to, uh, escort me…I’ll let you in on whatever I find out.
[Stiles finally looks away, mouth a sharp line of frustration. Already he suspects Sasuke will refuse. Failure to earn the faith of others—from his dad to Scott to the pack—has soured him.]
Whatever. I’m going either way.