☀ SEVEN; ( video )

[couldbeavoided]

[ The video turns on, showing a picture of Times Square at midnight. It's bright and the crowds are bustling. The camera swings to reveal Bob, looking like he has only once before on the network -- he's shorter, and skinnier, and his hair is short and unwashed. Shadows line the undersides of his eyes. ]I never apologized for what -- when I was,

Comments

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[bluepurrymuffin]

Bob, from what I understand, it was entirely the fault of outside forces. It couldn't be helped! I just... Are you sure this is what you think would be the right choice?

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[couldbeavoided]

[ Quietly: ] If it wasn't this, it would be something else. If I can't control myself it's a problem.

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[bluepurrymuffin]

Listen, we understand what this means for you, but we can help you if you'll allow us to. You don't have to be on the active roster if that's a change you feel you need to take, but I would hope this doesn't mean you'll be leaving us entirely!

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[couldbeavoided]

I--

I don't know. Maybe. I can't promise anything.

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[bluepurrymuffin]

I don't suppose we need a promise from you as to make one to you ourselves. If there's anything we can do for you, please let us know. We're here to help, Bob.

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[couldbeavoided]

[ He buries his face in his hands. ]

No... you're wrong... if I can't make that promise to you I have no business even being near the team.

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[bluepurrymuffin]

Bob, we're...aware of the risks, and we'll take them willingly if it means helping you. It's better than leaving you to deal with them alone.

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[couldbeavoided]

[ A longggg hesitation. ]

Really?

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[bluepurrymuffin]

We're friends, aren't we? And friends support each other.

We wouldn't have much right to call ourselves heroes if we turned our backs on you now, when you may need that support most!

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[couldbeavoided]

Right... [ Well that's alien to him. He pauses. ] I guess you could keep me as a reserve member.

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[bluepurrymuffin]

Really, I'm not nearly as concerned with your Avengers status as I am your well-being. If you feel you need to take a break from the team, I'll understand.

I just want to know that you'll be alright, and make sure you know that we care about you and want to do everything we can to help you to become so if you aren't.

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[couldbeavoided]

I don't know if I'll be all right. I can't promise anything.

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[bluepurrymuffin]

And it wouldn't be fair to ask you to. It's a constant process, but you'll have our support through it.