The Best of Us

6: Night Breakout

As with all her plans, Natasha is careful to wait until everything is in place before acting. She's glad when the girl is yet again on her own as she approaches the chamber. A quiet satisfaction washes over her when she finds the girl still asleep, undisturbed by her presence. Natasha steps in, delicate as a shadow, perching on the edge of the bed, her hand gliding gently over the young girl's cheek.

"Hey, sleepyhead." It takes a moment for the girl to stir, her wide eyes meeting Natasha's, a fleeting startle giving way to a calm recognition as realises it's only Natasha. "It's time to go."

"To the safe place?" The girl's voice carries a trace of sleepiness. Natasha smiles as she watches the girl stretch and sit up.

"Yeah sweetheart, somewhere safe. But we need to be quick and I need you to keep control of your powers, can you do that for me?" The girl nods, though a hint of uncertainty lingers in her eyes. "Okay, I need you to stay close to me and keep your head down. Remember, I won't let anyone hurt you." Natasha tenderly rests her hand against the girl's cheek, receiving another nod in response.

With soft steps, Natasha leads them out of the chamber, her grip firm yet reassuring. It's only when they approach the nearest exit, where Natasha's car is waiting, that the guards on duty step in.

"I'm just taking her out for a bit, get some air. There's not much of that underground, or haven't you noticed?" The guards don't move, clearly not amused.

"We can't let you pass without the proper authority." Natasha scoffs. "Authority? Do you know who I am?" The two guards exchange a glance but remain silent. "Then you know damn well that I don't need authority. Now move aside." It takes some doing but eventually, they move out of their way, letting Natasha guide the young girl through the doors into the cool night air.

Although careful not to directly run, Natasha bundles the girl into the car as quickly as she can, not wanting to waste any time.

"Do you know how to use a seatbelt?" The young girl shakes her head as Natasha fastens it for her before jumping into the driver's seat and pulling the car away.

Hours into their journey, Natasha is surprised, and also a little concerned, that there's no sign of anyone coming after them. Do they not care they've taken her? Or is something else going on?

Natasha is equally as surprised that the young girl has remained awake throughout the journey. Natasha was certain the motion of the car would quickly lull her to sleep. It's always worked with Cooper and Lila, especially at this age. How she misses those kids.

Unable to bear the silence any longer, Natasha glances at the girl, who is captivated by the passing scenery.

"Hey, you okay?" It takes a moment for the girl's attention to shift to Natasha, but eventually, she nods.

"Are we going somewhere safe?" Her voice sounds smaller now that she's free from her confined chamber.

"Yes, we are. We should arrive in about an hour." The girl nods, her gaze returning to the outside world. "If you're tired, you can sleep." The girl shakes her head, clearly too intrigued by the world beyond the walls she'd grown used to. "You know kid, we should really give you a name."

"A name?" She looks at Natasha, curious.

"Yeah, a name. Like my name is Natasha. But you can call me Nat." The girl remains silent. "So, you've never had a name?" The girl shrugs.

"I, I don't think so."

"What did people call you before we found you?" She shrugs again.

"The Tumbler. But that was only because they made me tumble down buildings. I didn't like it." Natasha nods, realising they'll need to start from square one.

"Well, you can choose any name you like."

"Do I have to have a name?" That question catches Natasha off guard.

"Well, yes. Don't you want one?" There's something inquisitive in her expression.

"They only used my name when they shouted or made me do things."

"Well, you're far away from them now, and a name doesn't have to be a bad thing. Names can be personal, a part of you. Especially if you choose them. Like, my real name isn't Natasha."

"It isn't?"

"No."

"What is it?" Natasha takes a moment before replying, not expecting to be so candid about herself so soon.

"Natalia."

"Why did you change it?"

"Because I didn't like the way people used my name either. So when I got my freedom, I decided to change it. Now that you have your freedom, I think you should pick a new one too."

"Like what?" The girl looks at Natasha, a certain expectation in her eyes. God, kids are hard work.

"I don't know. It's up to you. Are there any names you like the sound of? Katy? Ray? Lola?" The girl remains silent, and Natasha hopes it's a sign she's pondering.

"Can you choose one for me?" Natasha sighs but can't help but smile.

"Are you sure you wouldn't like to pick one yourself?" The girl nods.

"I want you to pick one." Natasha smiles wider this time, suddenly feeling an immense responsibility.

"Alright, how about..." She gazes at the road ahead, mentally sifting through potential names. This is one of those moments when having a list of names would be helpful until it hits her.

"How about, Juniper?" The girl looks at her, taking a moment to consider.

"I like it." That's all she says before turning her attention back to the window. Natasha smirks, a strange warmth coursing through her. She continues to smile, stealing another glance at the girl beside her, whom she's now responsible for. Whatever comes next, it's going to be an adventure for them both.