Relief flooded her as she collected the money she had earned by working in a small ice-cream shop over the last two weeks. Artemis dared to smile as she looked down at the precious dollars, which to others may have seemed inadequate, but to her, it was a source of solace. She could return home and greet her mother cheerfully, without feeling anguish weighing down on her.

Indeed, she was met with smiles and the comforting smell of Paula's traditional food and spiced tea. During the past few days, no assassins had dropped by her room, but Artemis knew better than to feel relieved. Ignoring that, however, she decided she could finally attend to the previously abandoned schoolwork and sat down to study algebra with all her might and mane.

…

"You're - cheerful - today," Robin remarked between dodges as he and Artemis trained together, both equally skilled in combat and wit. Though they wouldn't feel too inclined to admit it, they did secretly enjoy these moments together.

"What was that? Couldn't hear it over the sound of me destroying you-"

"Pfft, you wish!" Robin snorted. Artemis smirked. His momentary distraction gave her an opening, and she knocked him down with one swift movement. Dick groaned.

"Wish came true. Gotten traught yet?" Artemis grinned and held out a hand to yank him back up.

"Really hate myself sometimes," He grumbled, though a sheepish smile spread across his lips. Just as they were about to start another round, Artemis' phone let out a little ping.

Artemis wiped her forehead with the back of her hand. "Must be Mom.. hold on a second."

Dick watched as she pulled it out and kept watching as she read the message, her face paling. By the time she was done, no traces of the aforementioned green were left. For the first time, Dick saw her look more than just uneasy. She was frightened.

"I need to go," Artemis muttered, stashing the phone into her bag.

Dick frowned. "Wait, what's wrong?"

"I need to go."

"Artemis, come on, hold on a second," Dick grabbed her arm so she could not escape. "What happened?"

"Dad happened." Artemis' voice betrayed her entirely. "Please, I need to go, he might hurt her,"

"Wait - what? What do you mean? Hurt who?"

"Mom."

Anonymous:
Have you reconsidered yet, Baby Girl? I might pay mommy a visit just to make sure we have her permission. See you there.

…

"He could be bluffing?" Dick suggested as the two rushed towards the beta-tubes.

"You think I'm gonna risk it?"

"No, of course not. Just.. I'll come with you, alright?" His tone showed real concern, but Artemis wouldn't hear of it. Before she could protest again, Dick beat her to it. "Artemis, this is Sportsmaster we're talking about. Wherever you're going, I'm coming with."

...

When they reached the apartment, panting and apprehensive, Artemis hurried in. Nothing awaited her but a startled Paula, who rightfully scolded her for such an "ungraceful entrance" and asked why she was home so early.

After much consolation and many apologies, Artemis trudged out. Dick whistled, "False alarm?"

"This time." Artemis still looked agitated. "I can't protect her all the time, though.."

Dick pursed his lips. "Y'know, you could always ask GA to help you out. I know he's not really related to you.. But he's your mentor, he'll gladly lend a hand. Or an arrow."

Artemis swallowed. "I don't need-"

"Don't kid yourself, Artemis. Go to Olly before something goes wrong. You won't get a second chance if your dad gets there first."

"Artemis?" Paula called from inside. "Who are you talking to?"

Dick smirked.

"Oh - uh - Brando from... Downstairs!" Artemis stumbled.

"Brando from downstairs?" Dick quirked an eyebrow at her.

Artemis flicked his forehead. "Should I have told her I'm friends with an actual dick?"

"Salty, salty.."