[ Even if it's discomfort that Cobblepot never states outright, Gordon isn't stupid. He's read the files, seen the change in behavior among the officers from criminal to criminal. And even if he himself doesn't buy into any of that bullshit, he's a cop. He's a them, not an us, and you don't get rid of stigma like that with just a few kind words. ]
I think we can help each other out. Maybe it's a bit of a leap, but I'll keep it straight to the point. We need someone as well-informed — well-connected — as you are, working the other side of the fence.
[ Oswald laughs. It's cold, but brief. Empty, but not without its amusement. His back remains to the opposing man while his hands work to pour himself a small glass of the aforementioned scotch. After a quick swallow, he pivots slightly, catching the sight of Jim in the close distance. ]
Is that so? [ When he turns fully, he swishes round the contents of his glass, brow quirked curiously. ] And in return, you intend to so graciously grant me —what, Commissioner? Some form of amnesty?
[ He clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth and sips at his scotch. ]
[ Gordon smiles uneasily, wondering briefly if there'd been any way of phrasing the deal that might have gone down just a mite better. But the bridge has already been crossed and he knows better than to worry too much about spilled milk. ]
It's not that raw a deal, all things considered, [ he says, though there's not much argumentative spirit in his voice. ]
[ Oswald steps around his desk, seating himself back within his desk chair. It takes a few moments for the silence to finally pass. One elbow rests on the leather arm, fingers curled beneath his chin as he watches the Commissioner.
Finally, a single finger is pointed at the man. ] James, I really must ask:
[ Gordon's demeanor instantly changes. The line of his jaw goes taut, his entire frame seems to tense. He's used to threats against his own life, but even the suggestion of his family as a target never fails to set steel in his blood. ]
Thought you'd heard, [ he says, keeping his voice as steady as he can. ]
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no subject
I think we can help each other out. Maybe it's a bit of a leap, but I'll keep it straight to the point. We need someone as well-informed — well-connected — as you are, working the other side of the fence.
no subject
Is that so? [ When he turns fully, he swishes round the contents of his glass, brow quirked curiously. ] And in return, you intend to so graciously grant me —what, Commissioner? Some form of amnesty?
[ He clicks his tongue against the roof of his mouth and sips at his scotch. ]
no subject
It's not that raw a deal, all things considered, [ he says, though there's not much argumentative spirit in his voice. ]
Why, what'd you have in mind?
no subject
Finally, a single finger is pointed at the man. ] James, I really must ask:
[ He looks down his nose. ]
How's your wife?
no subject
Thought you'd heard, [ he says, keeping his voice as steady as he can. ]
Left the city and took the kids with her.