Chapter Text
Harley reached the landing, legs burning. Why he had to live in a fifth-floor apartment with a broken elevator was beyond her. How he himself could get up those stairs every day was even further beyond her. She walked down the hall, not bothering to check the flat numbers. She knew where she was going. Everything looked the same, despite her last visit being almost a year ago.
It was strange being back in Gotham. There seemed to be an unnatural hush about the city, as if something had happened and its citizens were waiting in fear. There were fewer pedestrians on the street, it seemed. Businesses closed early into the evening. Police cruisers patrolled around almost every block. What had happened, she wasn’t sure, but she knew the new atmosphere made her uneasy. She reached the flat and knocked weakly at the door. She was exhausted.
Harvey opened the door, looking as tired and worn as ever. His eyes took a moment to take her in before his whole demeanor lifted.
“Harley?”
She nodded, managing a faint smile.
“Oh, my God, Harley. I thought you were dead.” He pulled her into a bruising hug and she could smell his familiar scent of leather and spearmint. She sighed, relieved. For the first time in a long time, she felt safe.