from “we’re not friends, we’re strangers with memories”:
“Look, Mr…Enginnson. Your, ah, help is appreciated, butthere’s the possibility that the suspect could press charges.”
Loki’s lip curled. “The suspect? I was under the impressionthat several saw him snatch the unfortunate woman’s purse. I prevented hisescape. And yet he is still permitted to charge me with wrongdoing?” He soundedgenuinely affronted. Clint breathed out through his teeth.
“What exactly did you do to the guy,” he asked tightly. Lokimade a dismissive gesture.
Clint looked at the officer. “Possible concussion andsprained wrist,” he said, looking uncomfortable. “Guy was out cold when we gotthere.” Clint thought of the guy at the bar and restrained himself from sayingthat it could have been worse. “I’m not saying he didn’t do it,” the policemanadded, in Loki’s direction. “Just that – even if he does get nailed for this hestill has a right to charge you.”
Loki looked powerfully skeptical. “I very much doubt thatwill be a problem,” he said. The policeman looked confused, and Loki smiledblandly. “Will it suffice if you have my…friend’s contact information? If I amnot currently charged with anything,I should like to leave.”
“That’s – I suppose that’s fine, as long as - why don’t youthink it’ll be a problem?” The officer asked.
“Given what I understand to be the abysmal efficiency ofyour criminal justice system,” Loki said easily, “I imagine nothing will happenfor the next few months, and within that time I fully expect by one means oranother to have-”
“Okay,” Clint said loudly, interrupting Lokibefore he could announce his imminent demise.