cptstverogers!
Steve doesn’t think, often, before he acts. Usually, he just does what he thinks is right. And in this case, he thinks it’s only polite that he helps the woman with picking up her belongings. When she seemingly blurts out a response – one that makes Steve wince in sympathy – he says, “No, m’am – I should be the one to apologize. It’s my fault for not havin’ been paying attention. Besides, you seemed to be in quite the hurry, which is understandable if you worked a twenty-four-hour shift.”
He remembers the days where his Ma would come home from long shifts at the hospital as well, dark bags under her eyes as she’d stumble into their tiny apartment, muttering about the day in which she had and the day that would only follow tomorrow. So he can only be more appreciative – and respectful – to the woman in front of him. A whole lot of strength and resilience comes with working a twenty-four hour (or longer!) shift.
Now, Steve takes himself back to the moment by handing the woman her belongings, making sure not to drop any of them as he does so. At the woman’s question, a flush appears on the blond’s cheeks, and he looks down at his feet, having already stood up again.
“Uh, er. Well, I- I ‘spose I work out every so often. Six times a week, probably? I, uh. I mean, I go for a run every mornin’. It’s real great. Sorry ‘bout that again, by the way. Are you sure you’re alright?” Worry checks into his features then, and he takes a moment to scan the woman’s face for any sign of alarm or anger. Then, in a moment, he changes his expression, holds out his hand, and says, “’m Steve Rogers, by the way. It’s a pleasure to meet you, m’am.”
of course. no way was any man ever that polite and kind when interacting with a woman — hell, anyone when they head-on collide with them. that and never has she so soundly rebounded off another person like that. yeah, she liked to believe she was a little tank herself, having completely tackled men that bragged about how much they bench. but against CAPTAIN AMERICA? no dice.
between the exhaustion and trying not to drop everything all over again as she accepted them, she dropped her head with a laugh. “nice to meet you, steve rogers. i would ask ol’ cap himself how he stays so in shape, like there was ever a chance of getting that good. sorry for the rather jarring introduction — i’m stephanie brown. i’ve heard bruce wayne talk about you, not to mention all the tabloids.”
the night had gone rather uneventfully. that didn’t mean there was still something to pop into once or twice. and in her reckless pursuits, she often returned with a badge of battle. just a couple bruises this time. hence the need to carry around all the concealer that had tumbled out of her bag. steph considered investing in makeup for how much she spends on it. but no, she was no worse for the wear after running into him.
“i’m really okay,” she assured, shouldering her bag. “having a good morning?”
