noirsealed part 6

Paloma cared for Cucali after that. She brought her food and painkillers, and even lent use of her phone so that Cucali could straighten things out with some friends of hers.

Cucali didn't know what to think of that.

She definitely knew what to think of Paloma offering to come with her when she finally insisted on leaving for a job, though.

"Fuck no."

"But -"

"Listen, songbird, you'd just drag me down."

"But you're still hurt! And I said I'd help you!"

"This ain't gonna fly, girlie."

Paloma took a deep breath, and met Cucali's eyes. "I don't care what you say. I want to come with you to make sure you're okay."

"An' I don't give a single fuck."

"I'm coming with you!"

Cucali drew her gun, there, and aimed it square between Paloma's eyes. "You ain't even close to prepared for the work I do."

Paloma flinched, but she didn't look away, her eyes determined. "I can handle myself. It's a dangerous world out there for a lady. I've learnt a few tricks."

"You'll need more'n a few tricks to keep up with me, girlie. Now tell me. What would you do if I fired this gun right now?"

"Nothing," Paloma said, calmly. "Because your safety's on."

Cucali smirked. "Don't sass me, girl. You come with me and you're dead."

"I said," Paloma said, "that I'd help you. And I'm going to help you."

"Oi," Cucali sighed, lowering her gun. "You're hopeless, doll. I give up on tryin' to save your fine ass."

Paloma's cheeks coloured in a blush, and it was only a moment later that Cucali realised why. She scoffed.

"Don't read into it, birdie."

"Re, regardless, if you're leaving I'm coming too."

"... whatever."

When they did head out, Paloma proved herself capable. She was almost competent. No match for Cucali, of course -- no one was a match for Cucali -- but she avoided bullets quite well and was a decent shot with her derringers.

Cucali still resented having a shadow.