Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Whoah there! Lay back down. You have a severe concussion.” Bruce says.

“I feel fine, what’s-?” Matt feels his face. No mask. “-oh.”

It’s disappointing for them to find out like this, but at least he didn’t have to hide it anymore. Truth be told, Matt was starting to really like occasionally spending time with the Avengers. It’s also very convenient to have the med bay available if needed, considering his last interaction with Claire.

Matt decided to just go back to sleep. It’s not as if he was planning anything. The Avengers know exactly who he is now, even if he did have a case to work on they probably would’ve pulled some strings to make him rest.

The next time he woke up, he felt worse. He checked the time. It’s been at least a day since he’d last checked, apparently. Matt doesn’t even remember the last time he’d gotten more than 7 hours of sleep at a time. He must’ve been exhausted. He sat up and stretched. Work to do.

“Hey! I was just about to check on you!” Stark said as he walked into the common area.

Barton snickered in the background, “Yeah, sure you were.” Tony made a noise as if offended.

“I suppose it’s time for an official greeting.” Stark continued, “what’s your name? How did you come to be who you are today?”

Matt raised an eyebrow. He should’ve known better than to make assumptions. Or maybe this could be a test… didn’t seem to be the case. “Matt Murdock, Lawyer.” He stated.

Clint Barton slapped his knee. Tony growled back at him, then his face contorted into what’s supposed to be a smile. “Nice to meet you, Matt. You’re welcome here at anytime. It gets boring when the same group of people linger around here all the time.” Clint side eyed Tony at that comment. Stark continued, “You don’t need any excuse to stop by or linger, but I’ll have you know the 3rd anniversary of Steve screwing up Kraft Mac n Cheese is on Thursday. We’re having a potluck.” Steve tilted his head in confusion at that comment.

“… I’ll keep that in mind, Stark.” Matt made his way towards the elevator. This could be interesting. “…See you then.” With that, he made his exit.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Matt was sure this was a joke. After he left the tower he could hear arguing for blocks. Nevertheless, Matt put on a casual suit, got a small pack of beef jerky from Nelson’s Meats, and made his was back to the tower Thursday afternoon.

Stopping before opening the door, Matt folded up his cane and hid it in his back pocket. He didn’t need it here, these people knew his real identity.

Matt tilted his ear towards the door, smiling. There were four avengers inside whispering about food, kids, potlucks, etc.. Steve was in the bathroom, still confused yet still trying to make himself as presentable as possible.

When Matt walked through the door he was immediately met with three gaping mouths and Bruce saying, “Those are some sick sunglasses.”

“Thank you.” Matt replied.

“Is that fresh beef jerky?” Natasha pointed out. Matt set the jerky on the counter and made a gesture for them to help themselves, which Natasha happily obliged.

“Whoah Whoah, hold on. We haven’t finished baking Mac and cheese. We can’t eat without the entrée.” Tony spoke up.

Natasha scooped a handful into her mouth, “Steve has been in the bathroom for almost an entire hour. That Mac and cheese isn’t getting baked unless you do it yourself. Plus, that isn’t Kraft Mac and Cheese, it doesn’t count for this event.”

Tony huffed. The room went silent. Clint spoke up, “Do you guys wanna watch a movie? I still haven’t seen ‘A quiet place 2’.”

“A quiet place? That’s so creepy though! And I haven’t even seen the first one.” Tony retorted.

Banner spoke up, “I’ve seen both. They’re both terrible.”

Natasha leaped over the sofa, “Perfect choice. Matt, what do you think?”

Matt opened his mouth. “If I remember correctly, that’s that silent horror movie, isn’t it? I’m not one for silent movies.”

“C’mon, this isn’t like those super old and boring films that Steve likes. You might enjoy this.”

“But I-“

“‘But I-‘ I bet you’re just scared of low budget aliens.” Tony spoke up.

“This is anything but low budget, tones.” Clint defended.

Tony rolled his eyes, “sure it is.”

“Shhhhh it’s starting” Bruce said as he clicked a remote control.”

“Shhhhhh don’t want the monsters to get ‘cha” Natasha made fun of Tony.

Matt sat in silence for most of the entire movie. He heard shifting around him, occasional screeches coming from h the tv, the occasional jumping of an Avengers heart, etc. but he didn’t have any reactions, unless it was some odd contortion of his face. He felt just about -if not more- confused than Steve was.

Steve showed up almost halfway through the movie, walking in at presumably a jump scare as he nearly face planted as others hearts spiked and whispered “What the F*CK is that?!” At a volume he thought no one else could hear.

“Language” Matt silently replied to that, recalling an inside joke he heard a couple times while on patrol. Natasha heard that comment, and the room bust out in laughter, causing Matt to actually flinch.

When the movie was finally over (that movie felt like it would never end) Matt could practically feel the 5 stares aimed in his direction.

“I feel like I just lost a bet.” Said Tony.

“Even Natasha flinched at some of those.” Clint remarked, earning him a subtle kick in the shin.

“Matt, are you okay?” Natasha seemed bewildered.

“I’m glad you could join us.” Welcomed Steve.

As if on cue, the smoke alarm went off. Everyone but Matt ran to the kitchen.

“Steve! You didn’t tell us you had Mac and Cheese in the oven!!”

“You said to put it there! You said it would take a long time to cook!”

“I didn’t mean three hours!!!” Natasha yelled.

Tony burst out laughing. Eventually the rest of the group followed suit. “Matt! Matt! You have to come see this!” He wheezed.

Matt awkwardly made his way to the kitchen, cringing at the overwhelming smell of smoke… and… burnt cheese? Charred Breadcrumbs? Green onions???
“That smells bad.” He softly chuckled.

“You’ve gotta see it though. Bruce, Barton, let him through.” Tony chuckled back.

Matt held his breath and made his way through the crowd. The heat was overwhelming now as well. “It seems like quite the disaster but… I don’t understand what you’re expecting me to look at.”

Tony and Clint both burst out laughing without missing a beat. Natasha wheezed, “ok, now that’s bad, but I totally agree.” Bruce spit something in his direction, then promptly continued to laugh.

Steve facepalmed, then shook his head and chuckled. “Looks like we’ll be having a double anniversary from now on.” Matt tilted his head. Huh.

Matt quickly found his way out of the kitchen. Finally able to breathe, he grabbed a cup and poured himself a glass of water out of the carafe conveniently placed on the coffee table. He then sat down to recover from the chaos going on inside the kitchen.

A realization dawned on him… ‘do they not know I’m blind?’ Maybe he was trying to convince himself they were trying not to undermine his abilities. Maybe he was trying to convince himself he didn’t care if he could understand what’s happening on a quiet screen.

But Matt is smart. In all honesty… Matt is convinced the Avengers just asked his name and didn’t bother to look up any other details that could easily be found on the top of any google search or even asking someone in Hell’s Kitchen. Matt is well known, after all. He could be considered infamous for a couple different reasons. On top of that, everyone who does know who he is knows about his total blindness.

…This is something he never would’ve expected. The Avengers know his face. The Avengers know his name. The Avengers know that he’s a Lawyer…. The Avengers don’t know Matt is blind?

What should he do now?

Chapter Text

Matt could hear his footsteps coming from a mile away.

He didn’t actually say anything until he was like, two inches from his ear.

“So, are you like, a member of the team now? Officially?” Clint Barton whispered into Matt’s ear.

Matt stared for a minute. “Hmm… I don’t think so. Why do you ask?” It was such a stupid question, but you’ve gotta wonder where it came from.

Clint sighed. “One of these days I’ll scare you off the building.” …. “What? You can catch yourself. And you attended a technically’ Avengers movie night. We made fun of Steve together. There’s no way you’re not one of us.”

“Well, I don’t think we can be called a team if we’ve never actually teamed up. We’ve more or less ‘crossed paths’ under unfortunate events.” Matt scoffed, with a smile.

“I see what you’re saying. You need some kind of initiation!” Clint pointed his finger dramatically at the sky.

“Did you say you want to scare me off the edge of a building?”

“Never mind that. You, me, laser tag. What do ya say?”

“It’s not really an ‘initiation’ if it’s only the two of us, and you’re the only Avenger.”

“Has anyone ever told you you’d make a good investigator? Fine. You caught me. I found a coupon and my moody teenage kids have been ignoring me. You’re the next best thing.” Clint slyly set his hand on Matt’s shoulder. “So, whaddya say?”

Matt needed a moment to process all the implications thrown his way, by accident or not. He tried his best to find Clint’s eyes with his. Pausing, he sighed, “Fine. When?”

Clint gritted his teeth, “uh… the last date I can use my coupon is… hmmm… just look at it yourself.”

Matt huffed as Clint pulled what seemed to be a damp index card out of his pocket. He lifted it up, presumably to show Matt. Matt squinted, pretending to read it. He lifted his hand to actually read it but Clint whisked it away before he could get a feel. “It’s okay if you can’t read it. I found it poking out of a dirty gutter near a dumpster a couple weeks ago. It’s also pitch dark outside. But the date says it expires tomorrow.”

Matt doesn’t know how much more bewilderment can possibly arise from this conversation. He is glad to finally know why Clint right pocket has smelled like sewer for the past 2 1/2 weeks, however. Nonetheless, there was really only one thing to be said here: “Clint, I have court tomorrow.”

It was Clint’s turn to be shocked now. “Court? Did you do something?” Matt gives it a moment, then Clint’s facial expression changes. “Oooh! You’re a lawyer! That’s right! You practically already are an investigator, how ‘bout that. What time does it end? I I’m sure we can still go afterwards.”

Matt thinks about how angry Foggy might get if the Avengers show up to their preliminary hearing. Especially if they proceed to pick up Matt, and without Foggy. It’s suspicious if anything. Clint doesn’t easily back down though, much like Foggy.

“DD?” Barton questions.

Matt took too long to answer. Matt doesn’t know exactly how to answer. “Sorry, I have court.” Matt proceeds to hurl himself off the edge of the building.

“DD NO!!!!” Clint yells after him. He runs to the edge to peer off the side, but Daredevil is already gone. “Dang, that looked pretty scary; Maybe I should stop sneaking up on him.” He shudders, wipes his cheek, then shoots a grappling arrow the the nearest tall building, launching himself towards it. “I can look cool too… without the concerning part.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

After 5 hours of preliminary hearing (5 hours!!) Matt and Foggy were both in desperate need of coffee and everything that’s comfortable. But they had more work to do when they got back.

Matt stopped in his tracks before the doors leading outside the courthouse. “You’ve gotta be kidding me.” He breathed.

“What? What’s wrong?” Foggy asks nervously, looking around.

“Don’t worry about it, fog. I should’ve known he’d do this.”

“Matt, you’re concerning me. Who is doing what?”

Matt bites down and leans his head back. “Clint Barton. He’s here to pick me up for laser tag.”

Foggy pauses. His eyes go wide. “Clint Barton?!” He whisper-screams, “Matt, no one is -that- disappointed to hang out with an avenger… wait, did you say laser tag??? LASER TAG, ohh sorry, shhhh…” a passerby walks faster to get away from their vicinity. Foggy pauses again, “Matt, can you even play laser tag? Are you like a spider or something? I didn’t know you could sense lasers?”

Matt shrugs. Then focuses on Clint through the door. He clutches his cane. “Should we find a different exit?”

“Uh, no, we’re going to play laser tag with Hawkeye.”

“We have work to do.”

“You don’t seem to care about ‘work’ when you’re practicing vigilantism almost every night.” Foggy retorts, then offers an arm, which Matt takes.

Matt sighs heavily. He opens the door. Clint immediately takes notice, causing Foggy’s heart rate to spike. Foggy pulls Matt in Clint’s direction.

“Matt, who is this?” He asks.

“Foggy Nelson, Law partner and best friend.” Foggy smiles to his earlobes and offers his hand. Clint eyes Matt.

“Don’t worry Clint, he knows my identity… I told you I had court.”

Clint shrugs innocently, “you never said no…”

“Would you’ve listened?” Asks Matt.

“Unlikely.” Clint nods. He looks back over to Foggy, Matt takes this moment to fold his cane back up. “I only brought two helmets. I’m happy to take mine off, I like feeling my hair in the wind. I have enough room on here for three people anyway, so hop on.

“You weren’t wearing a helmet before.” Foggy states as he climbs on the bike.

Clint laughs, “Of course not. Matt, do you see this bike? It’s the newest thing they have at shield. Fury doesn’t even know I stole it. Look at all the cool patterns. It’s crazy what you can do with just one color.”

“Very interesting, Clint. We’re still in front of a courthouse.” There were bystanders now, Matt had to get out of here fast. It seems like Clint agreed. As soon as Matt got on the bike he sped off. Matt heard Foggy’s nausea behind him. He would facepalm if he wasn’t holding on for dear life. Hopefully no one saw these two lawyers and Avenger breaking the law right after court today. Yeah, hopefully.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Laser tag was not what he was expecting. As soon as they got there the receptionist cringed at the coupon but accepted it anyway, barely taking a second glance, which Clint was slightly disappointed by, considering what he had to do to get that.

The employees whisked the three of them away to to a back room, where they had to put on heavy, very smelly uniforms. Clint and foggy both seemed elated by this. Matt would dare say they get along better than each of them do with Matt, but they’re bound to get bored eventually… right? Matt shouldn’t care.

Foggy was right. With the thick uniforms, the stench of the thick uniforms, the scent of fog around the room, along with all the props, the only way Matt could tell he was shot was well… when he was shot. The sensor on the back of his shoulder practically punched his ear. Who could possibly enjoy this? His friends seemed like they were having the time of their life, however. Matt could never be mad at knowing the people he cares so much about are having a good time.

Matt was glad when it was over.

“Gotta say, Barton. I really needed that with all the stress I’ve been dealing with.” Foggy yawned.

“I agree, Nelson. Who knew Mr.PartyPooper over here could be so fun?” Clint stretched.

“Fun? He was cowering in there. I’m the fun one.”

“Ain’t that the truth.” Clint pursed his lips. “By the way, Matt. You’re an Avenger now.”

Foggy’s face dropped.

“No, I’m not.” Matt replied.

“Sure, buddy. See ya soon!” Clint got on his bike and drove away without them.

…

Foggy called a taxi. The two best friends waited together, not a worry in sight. They talked like good friends do. They joked about the days events. They were kind of sad when the taxi finally arrived. Matt was glad to get away from that smell. That leathery, dusty, foggy smell. They thought about the days events on the ride back to the office.

As they were now relaxed and ready to take on the pile of paperwork they had to do, foggy remembered something odd.

“Matt… forgive me if this sounds weird… does Clint not know you’re blind?”

“Y’know, I’m not entirely sure of that myself.”

“He saw you walking out of court, with a blind man’s cane.”

“I dunno, maybe he was busy thinking about how cool is bike was.”

“… That was a pretty cool bike. You should’ve seen it.”

“Foggy.”

Chapter Text

It had been some time since any of the Avengers had popped in during Matt’s activities, or invited him out. Matt had some time to kill, and both Foggy and Karen were busy at the moment, so Matt made his way to the Avengers Tower to take Tony up on his invitation to show up uninvited.

Figuring he didn’t need his cane (If his suspicions were correct) he slipped through the side door and stepped into the elevator to make his way to the floor of the Avengers private common area.

It was eerily silent at that top. Scratch that, not eerily silent. The white noise and ringing of electricity in absolutely everything was still abundant. The floor was just devoid of life.

Matt didn’t mind being alone. It’s a good opportunity to explore the place, without relying on his senses. Matt began to feel the wall with his fingers.

Over the next hour? Two hours? -He wasn’t keeping track- Matt had put his hands on almost everything from corner to corner, floor to ceiling (don’t ask how), he had opened all the cabinets and touched the containers. He finally figured out what some that small poster said on the side of the fridge. It was a newspaper, something about Tony stark and Natasha Romanov at an awards show; the bottom right of the page started a smaller news story about an infamously petty Mallard deciding to save a kitten out of a- it cut off.

There were a few things that he found which had no known explanation, at least not to Matt. Must be some Sci-fi bs that would’ve left younger Matt elated… if he could see it.

A loud (incredibly loud, incredibly annoying) rotor noise filled the sky ten floors above him. The Avengers must be back. They seem to be in a good mood. They stayed up there for minutes chatting. Matt wondered if he should re-position himself to be more presentable, rather than standing awkwardly in the middle of the floor. He half leaned an elbow over the counters island… Good enough, he thought.

The elevator opened. Each of the avengers had different reactions to Matt’s presence.

Tony opened his arms, crouched, and squeaked out, “Daredevil! You’re here!”

Everyone else followed suit, smiling and saying variations of

“Matt!” -Clint

“Hey Matt!” -Nat

“Welcome! …how are you?” -Bruce

“DD! Nice to see you again!” -Steve

It was all said at the same time. Something in Matt’s face must’ve changed because Bruce asked: “why are you standing like that?”

Clint asked, “Matt, are you hurt?”

Tony said, “hey no need for the long face.” He patted Matt on the back.

Natasha huffed, “He must’ve really missed us.”

Steve smiled, “He’s probably just glad that we showed up.” His smile turned into a look of questioning, “Matt… how long have you been here?”

That was a good question. Matt wondered what the time was.

“Just ask FRIDAY.” Tony spoke up.

Who-?

“Approximately 3 hours, 24 minutes, and 39 seconds, sir.” A voice came from one of the Sci-fi things in the ceiling. Matt practically jumped out of his pants. Tony caught him in his arms and made a noise that sounded like a laugh.

“Whoah, I’ve never see you scare like that.” Tony turned towards the rest of the Avengers, “did anybody have a bet on that?”

Begrudgingly, Clint pressed $10 into Steve’s palm. Natasha gave $1 to Clint.

Tony watched the transaction, “Really?”

“Gotta keep my options open.” Clint remarked.

“You just screwed yourself, Clint.” Natasha fluffed his hair then went to open up the fridge. Soon after that everyone seemed to forget about the interaction.

Stark still had an arm around Matt, though. “Speaking of the word ‘screwed’, you’ve gotta see this.” Tony pulls his phone out of his pocket and taps the middle. Matt looks down at it, confused.

The phone emits a static-y noise, which Matt assumes is wind playing out of a video. It continues on like that for awhile. Tony suddenly nudges him, “Ehh did you see that??” He makes an entertained noise. “We were laughing about it the whole way home, and I’m serious, the ENTIRE way back to the tower.”

Matt tilts his head, trying to come up with a response. Tony tilts the phone again and starts scrolling through something. “That wasn’t even the best part. We got a close up shot that happened not even ten seconds later, you can thank Nat for that.

Tony tilts the screen again, bringing it back to Matt’s face. The white noise plays again, but this time it was quickly followed by “ooh, ahh, aughhh..” and punching. quite frankly, it sounds gross.

“Hmm.” Was the only thing Matt could muster in response.

“We are never gonna let you live that down, that was too big of a coincidence.” Tony smirked and turned his head towards Bruce.

“You’ll find something else to poke fun at soon.” Bruce leaned back in his chair, “What we should really be focusing on is the fact that as soon as Matt takes off his costume he’s emotionally a statue. Who will make him laugh first?”

All heads turn to Matt.

“50 bucks if someone can do it in the next 10 seconds. Nothing invasive.” Clint barks.

Suddenly, the room erupts in a cacophony of monkey noises, stomping, shuffling, snapping, movement, scribbling? more noise and what? If anything, this was making Matt stand even more stiff. Matt is wondering how he even ended up here.

“Damn.”

The Avengers team all stared in awe.

“Look over here!” Clint asked from somewhere behind Matt. Matt looked. Clint was holding up a piece of printer paper, clearly excited and ready to make some witty remark about how whatever is on that piece of paper could instantly send Matt clutching his stomach on the floor.

Matt couldn’t see the paper, so he just blankly stared. A couple people behind him snorted. “You suck at portraits, Barton.” Steve commented.

“Yeah, yeah, we all know you’re an artist.” Clint replied. “Matt, what do you think?”

A portrait, huh? Surely it couldn’t be… “What is it?”

Clint’s smile grew, “Its you! With a couple added features for comedic effect.” There was laughter all across the room again.

“Poor DD couldn’t even recognize it.” Natasha remarked, comedically.

“Wrong, Matt couldn’t recognize it. DD would’ve fell off a building laughing, I bet.” Clint retorted.

“What is your obsession with getting me to fall off buildings?” Matt smiled.

“Told ya so. He does have a soul outside the mask.” Clint said, “I win.”

A camera clicked in front of Matt’s face, wiping the smile off of it and leading him to crane his neck back. “Aww, Tony, you ruined it!” Bruce whined.

Tony brought his phone down. “No, I’m memorializing it. That portrait is good enough to be framed, but, unfortunately, people need to know who they are looking at”

Matt’s mouth opened while he tried to process what he heard.

So there was soon going to be a supposedly terribly drawn portrait of Matt Murdock paired with a picture of him smiling in the Avengers private kitchen hung up… “Where?”

“Where is this going to be hung? Hmm…” Tony paced around, seemingly coming up with a million ideas at once, in fact he probably was. None of them were good enough for him, allegedly, because the next thing that came out of his mouth was, “Maybe Steve’s bathroom.”

“Tony, I will ship it to Cuba if you do that.”

“Scary” Tony raised sarcastic jazz hands back at Steve.

At least it wasn’t going to be displayed somewhere public. But it’s still a strange place. According to the room however, said portrait was unrecognizable without his picture next to it… wait… was it recognizable with his picture next to it? It was actually starting to get on his nerves being in the dark about these conversations he’s clearly in the middle of.

“Can I see that?” Matt asked.

Tony laughed, “Can’t get enough of this masterpiece huh, Murdock?” He handed Matt the piece of paper.

Tracing the… Crayon? Really? Matt could not see how this looked like him. Not that he knows exactly what he looks like anyway, but he could make a fair assumption based on the structure of his face and hair. This was not it. Especially with what seemed to be a giant hyperbolized mustache on his head.

Matt laughed again. “This belongs under lock and key.”

Tony huffed, then put his hand up to his chin. “That’s not a bad idea…” He grabbed the paper out of Matt’s hand, slightly crinkling it, then left. He didn’t come back.

Everyone else spent the next few hours talking, eating, and asking Friday “knock knock” jokes. Disregarding the start of the day, Matt was enjoying himself. He’d be back again.

Chapter Text

“Natasha, Natasha, Nat-“ Matt groggily answered his phone. Yes, he gave his number to each Avenger who asked for it (which was all of them but Tony, who wasn’t in the room. Also Thor, he doesn’t seem to be around lately.)

“What is it?” He asked the phone, trying to wake up.

“Mmatt we’re so drunk” Nat sad on the other end.

“mMatt! Come pick us up!” Clint said in the background of the call.

“How do you expect me to come pick you up?” Matt asked, clearly awake now.

“We can’t drive that’s dangerous.” Wow. Clint really was drunk if he’s saying that.

“I don’t own a car. Why did you call me of all people?”

“Tony’s probably drunk too he’s always drunk haha… or working, which is the same as drinking for him.”

“What about Steve or Bruce?

“MATT THEY’RE LIKE OUR DADS” Clint screamed, causing Matt to straighten out his arm for a moment before bringing his mouth back to the microphone.

Matt can’t believe that this is happening. This has gotta be a dream, right? “Barton, what about your wife?”

“Shh she shouldn’t see me like this. I’m a good impressio-nfluence-mm”

“Guys, I can’t drive.” Seriously, Matt thought. “Can’t you take a taxi? Or the subway?”

“It’s not that hard to drive, Matt. Just push your foot down and flyyyyy”

Unbelievable. “Where are you?” He’ll have to grab a taxi for them. “I’m on my way.”

“See you soon :)” they hung up.

They didn’t even tell him their location. Matt put on sweatpants and a hoodie then walked out to his fire escape, listening for any signs of two drunk spies. Nothing.

He hailed a taxi, riding towards Manhattan, keeping his ears open to find out where they’re at.

He finally found them in a creepy looking area below some creepy looking scaffoldings. He handed some money to the driver, “Can you wait a moment?” The driver accepted it. “Thanks.”

Matt swiftly approached them. The two spies instantly took a fighting stance.

“Calm down Nat, Clint. Let’s get you in the taxi.” Matt was tired.

“Wait… taxi? What about the car? Oh no! Nick Fury will be pissed!” Clint snaps his head around, making Matt cringe at the movement. “Where’s the car!”

“‘T’s not a car clnt, it’s a golf cart.” Nat slurred.

“No, Nat. It’s a dune buggy.” Clint sliced his arm through the air, causing him to fall over. Matt barely caught him and dragged him to the taxi. Nat thankfully seemed to take the cue and followed, but refused to climb in.

“Seriously, he’ll be pissed! Where is it?” Clint repeated.

“…I think it’s that way?” Nat pointed down the road. Matt isn’t sure if she knows where she is pointing. “Ohh you’re right, NIck Fury will be pissed.” She palmed her face.

“Nick Fury I can take him” Clint sluggishly threw up his fists, while laying on the seat and barely being held up by the taxi door behind him.

Matt’s irritation level was rising by the minute. “I’ll go get it.” He turned to the taxi driver, “will you bring them to Avengers tower and inside to a receptionist?” Matt was careful with his wording, not wanting to be responsible for the kidnapping of a pair of drunk Avengers.

The drivers heart didn’t skip a beat. “Pay me more and I’ll make it safely.”

Matt pulled $100 out of his wallet and gave it to the driver. “Thank you. Nat, get in.”

“No, I need t gt the bke back.”

Matt harshly rubbed his face. “I’ll get it to you safe and sound when you’re sober.” He’ll have to call foggy and pray he has a license for whatever type of vehicle these two are referring to.

“Someone needs to supervise. Shield property, dude.” Clint grunted from inside the taxi. Matt heard shuffling, then the door closed. “Drive! Drive!” Clint yelled. The taxi driver complied. “Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!” Matt heard as the taxi drove away.

You have got to be kidding me. Shaking it off, Matt asked Natasha. “Alright, show me where this vehicle is.” Natasha nodded.

They walked for-ever. They actually did arrive at a vehicle, eventually. Matt had no idea how to verify whether the vehicle was the correct one they were looking for. “Natasha, do you have the keys?”

“What keys?” Uh oh.

Maybe there’s some weird technology on the car. Matt tries the recall the bike Clint Barton also stole from Fury.

What does this say about his pride as a lawyer? Does that even still exist?

If he has to Hotwire a car, Nick Fury won’t be the only one pissed off tonight. Matt will have to deal with foggy, which is almost worse. But Matt has never met Nick Fury.

It’s hard enough to deal with the Avengers alone. He doesn’t even want to imagine having an agency like that on his back. Especially about nonsensical matters such as this.

“Hey this isn’t our car” Natasha finally spoke up while Matt was crouched underneath the wheel, searching for anything abnormal. “Our car is green.”

Green? He doesn’t hear of many cars that could be green. That would really narrow it down if he could see the difference between these colors. Green? That’s a strange color for a spy car.

Matt dusted off his knees. “Natasha, where’s the car?” He asked, sure he wasn’t going to receive a proper answer.

“What car?” She asked. Matt sharply filled his lungs.

“Natasha, what kind of vehicle did you drive here?” Matt clapped his hands together in frustration.

“I dint drive, slyly.” Nat attempted to speak, it wasn’t working. None of this was working. Matt needs to come up with a new approach.

“Do you see any green cars in this area?”

“Our car wasn’t green. It’s dark black… No, it’s not a car. It’s silver.” Matt has never seen Nat so confused. Matt wonders; how many different vehicles has Clint Barton snatched from under shield?

How did this happen? Exactly, how DID this happen? “Nat, where did you get drunk?”

“Two blocks East, right side of the street, down the stairs where there’s a door lined with bright white string lights. Baracks Booze.” She recited the address without the slightest mispronunciation.

Drunk people. Is all Matt could think.

“We should go drinking, Mitt.” Natasha stomps east. Matt follows.

They were three quarters of the way there when Natasha looked back at him and stopped in her tracks. “Matt? Are you upset? Your eyes are all buggy.”

Matt chuckled, “I’ll be fine.” They’re almost there. He can sense the exact description of the bar ahead.

“R yo sure?” Nat flopped her head in his direction. “I can buy you a drink, if you wanna talk about it.”

“Speaking of drinks, this is the bar you went to with Clint, correct?” They were now standing in front of the entrance described. Natasha nodded. “Where is the vehicle you came here with?” He asked.

Natasha strained to think, “I think it was yellow, with a blue lining. It’s built to be ugly, but it’s really cute. Like a giraffe.”

It feels like Matt walked right in to that one. He tried to focus on the ‘giraffe’ part of the description. Nope. No abnormally tall cars around here. No trucks either. “I’m gonna call my friend, do you mind waiting for a minute?” He pulls out his phone to dial… uhh…. Who would be better suited for this? Foggy or Karen? Probably Karen. Matt calls foggy.

Foggy sounds groggy on the other line. “Matt, wha- what time is it? Matt, it’s 3am. What’s going on?” Foggy sounds concerned and very tired, much like how Matt is feeling.

“Foggy, I need help finding a car. Can you meet me now?” Matt asks.

Foggy suddenly sounds very awake. “Matt, don’t tell me you’re planning to drive… are you?”

Matt sighed heavily. “No, but I need you here. Clint and Nat got drunk, they can’t describe their car, and I think they want me to drive some sort of shield technology.”

Matt can hear Foggy’s smile. There’s shuffling on the other line, he thinks Foggy is getting dressed. “I’m on my wa-“ The phone is kicked out of Matts hand. “Matt? Matt are you okay?” The phone says from the sidewalk. Then foggy hangs up.

“Was that necessary?” Matt asked Nat.

“We’re spies, Mark. We can’t call people to pick us up because we’re lost.” She responds.

“Hold on, that cannot be true. I’m sure you guys call shield, or the avengers… or me all the time.” Matt holds his hands out in defense. Matt’s phone rings Foggy’s name. “Hold on.”

Matt leans down to pick up the phone. Natasha kicks him in the stomach, then turns around and kicks the phone away. Matt turns to her. The phone stops ringing.

Deciding not to engage (for his sanity, not his health), he grinds his teeth and walks to where the phone was kicked. He feels a wind next to his ear then… he catches Romanov’s leg.

Nat quickly dislodges her leg then tries to elbow him. He dodged blow after blow before finally getting a small break where all his patience has been spent and he tells her starkly: “Natasha, you don’t want to fight me.”

“You don’t want to call the police.” She replies, and continues her attack.

‘The police’ what? “Nat! You’re drunk!”

“That’s not an excuse Mittens!” She seemed to stop at that, confusing herself. Matt took the opportunity to dive for the phone, which has started to ring again.

“Foggy! Are you almost here?” He asks loudly, making him wince.

“Matt, you never told me the area you’re in. I called to ask you… is everything okay? You sound out of breath.” Matt huffed in annoyance.

“Who the heck is Foggy?! What are you planning, cloud-man?!” Natasha reaches for her boot, trying to find a gun. Matt didn’t realize that she had a gun. It must be some kind of fancy cloaking technology, one Matt couldn’t sense.

“Oh shoot.” Poor choice of wording, Matt.

“Matt? Is everything OK? Where are you?” Foggy asks.

“What did you do with my gun, cat?” Nat narrowed her eyes, looking more serious than ever. Does she not have a gun? Did she have a gun? If she had a gun, where is that gun now? This night keeps getting worse and worse.

“Foggy, don’t come. You don’t need to get involved with this.” Matt didn’t want his best friend to get hurt.

“Matt? Tell me where you are! I’m already ready to go! Where are you?” Foggy pleaded, sounding desperate and worried.

“Pew. Pew.” Nat pointed a finger gun in his direction. Matt narrowed his own eyes, this time in that emote that says, ‘seriously?’

“Matt, if you hang up this phone I’m gonna run through all the dark alleyways of Hell’s Kitchen while screaming your name until you can’t ignore me.” Foggy threatened, he didn’t sound like he’d go through with it. But as Natasha leaned forward and threw up on the street, Matt gave up and told Foggy his exact location.

Foggy hung up sounding pleased. Matt turned his full attention back to Nat.

They had a stare down for what felt like an entire minute, then Matt remembered. “Nat, how often do you carry a gun?” He held his hands up as Natasha straightened in defense.

“All the time.” Nat said with a serious tone, she covered her mouth afterwards with a surprised yip, as if she didn’t mean to say that.

No. No, this cannot be happening. “Nat, does your gun have cloaking technology?”

“No, why would it?” Answers Nat.

Matt perked up, remembering something else. “Your car belongs to shield, right? Did they put a cloaking technology on that?”

Nat huffed, “duh. Sometimes. Only sometimes.” She didn’t seem to know what she was saying. Nat also had the steadiest heartbeat Matt had ever heard, he’s beginning to doubt if real communication is possible at this point.

He tried anyway. “Do you see your ride around here?”

That got Nat into a stance that at least made it look like she was thinking. “Orange.” She said.

Matt didn’t see an orange car anywhere.

“Nat, how many cars are on this street?” This feels like some strange kind of interrogation. With a kindergartner, not a super spy.

“Four.”

Matt also counted four cars on the street. He was half-hoping the one they were looking for would be invisible, so he’d be able to use a process of elimination. Matt was starting to doubt whether there actually was a stolen shield vehicle somewhere, or if the story was made up.

Maybe the story was made up, they wanted him to drive, right? What were they expecting to do if he showed up in his own vehicle?

A car came down the street. Matt quickly grabbed Natasha’s arm and pulled her out of the way, then ducked under a punch she threw in protest.

The car stopped in front of them, rolling down the window to reveal Foggy! “Need a ride?” Foggy slicked his hair back with his fingers in a badass tone of voice.

“Foggy, we need to find a car. It supposedly belongs to shield. I can’t see colors. I need help.” Matt’s voice cracked at the end of it, was he really that upset?

Foggy hopped out of the car and leaned on Matt as if he were a wall. “No problem. Ma’am? What does this car look like?”

Matt pushed him away. Natasha replied with a smile, “it’s blue and that way.” She pointed further down the road.

“Lead the way.” Foggy started walking.

They walked for-ever (again) there was no blue car. Foggy and Nat talked the entire way… it seemed like..?

“Foggy, stop flirting with Natasha Romanov. she’ll kill you when she’s sober.”

“You jump to the wildest conclusions, Matt. By the way, there is no blue car.”

“I figured. You would’ve noticed, right?”

“Of course I would.” Foggy said. “We should probably go back before we wander too far off… maybe check the whole entire area. There’s gonna be something different about one of these vehicles, there’s not that many. Maybe we can break into some and look inside.”

Matt was surprised that Foggy was suggesting breaking into cars. He takes back what he thought about Foggy possibly getting mad at Matt for hot wiring a car.

“Think about it, Matt. If we can get into some of these vehicles, maybe they have a fancy control system for missiles or ejector seats or even better, a security system that will fire a deadly laser at anyone who tries to break in.”

Nope. “Let’s not break into any cars.” Matt changed his mind again.

“Back to where we started, then.”

They walked for-ever in the opposite direction back to the bars entrance. Natasha was getting worse and worse at walking as they continued. By the time they were back, the sun was rising.

Matt was practically falling asleep as he walked. It was surprising that Natasha lasted this long. She must be a really good special agent. Matt was scared shitless out of his trance when foggy pointed his finger and yelled, “MATT LOOK!”

Matt looked at the car he was pointing at. “What is it?”

Foggy smacked his own forehead. “Sorry Matt, I’m tired.” Foggy led Matt to the car. He placed his palm on the hood.

A long pause.

“A giant shield logo. That’s not very spy-like.” Matt just realized he only actually tried touching just one of the cars in the area. And it was a real car, after all.

Too tired to find humor in the situation, they both looked across the street where they left Nat. She was now fully passed out, laying in an awkward position on the sidewalk by the bar.

“How are we supposed to move this thing?” Asked Foggy.

“I don’t know.. maybe call a tow truck?”

“I was scared you were gonna say you wanted to drive it.”

“No way.” Matt chuckled.

They stood around, unsure of what to do. Leaning on the hood of a shield owned vehicle.

Eventually there was a noise above them. A Helicopter. Why was it flying so low?

“No way.” Foggy gulped.

Matt thinks he knows the cause. Just to confirm, Matt asked, “What? Is it-“

“It’s shield. A big shield logo on a helicopter.” Foggy confirmed.

“Nuh uh. I don’t wanna deal with them.” Matt panicked.

“YOU don’t wanna deal with them? What about me? I can’t defend myself!” Foggy panicked more.

“Foggy, you’re the best lawyer I know, you can defend anyone.”

“Not myself!!!”

A rope ladder landed way too close to foggy, “WHAt the-!”

A thin man climbed down. “Sorry for the drop in, boys. Unfortunately, the sensors of our agency’s super car alerted us to someone messing with the hood of the vehicle. So I’m just going to ask a few standard questions-“

“I’m blind.” Matt raised his hands up.

Foggy promptly followed, “I’m a lawyer.”

“I’m a lawyer too.” Says Matt.

“-about why Natasha Romanov is sleeping on the street over there in an indecent pose she’d never make while conscious.”

“We didn’t do that.” Foggy says.

The agent steps closer. “The car has cameras and speakers everywhere. Clint doesn’t think we know he’s stealing our equipment. Chewing him out does absolutely nothing and, unfortunately, He’s one of our best agents. I’ve been watching this entire thing. I only interfered when the cars alarm went off because you looked too confused and I couldn’t let a stranger drive a Shield owned super vehicle.”

Matt and Foggy’s jaws both dropped in unison.

“I won’t say anything if you don’t say anything. We keep this incident between us. Can I count on you two, Lawyers?”

Too tired to process (was that a threat?) or say anything, the pair of attorneys nodded their head. They silently agreed to forget about this night and take a much needed nap in their offices before their next appointment at 9am.

The agent nodded. Foggy locked arms with Matt, leading the way to Foggy’s car. Two more agents descended from the helicopter to check on Natasha.

They agreed to never mention this again.

Chapter Text

Repulsers invaded Matt’s ears.

That’s odd, Iron man isn’t typically someone who would fly all the way to Hell’s Kitchen and find Matt on patrol just to say ‘hello’. That would be a waste of rocket fuel, after all. But who knows? Maybe Stark doesn’t care about that. Scratch that, he definitely doesn’t care.

Matt hopped his way over to a clearing on top of a building, big enough for the inevitable windstorm he’s about to feel to not be knocked around by any objects other than a few stacked by the ledge.

Iron Man stood in front of Matt. He didn’t fully land, to Matt’s dismay. “Hello, Murdock.” He said authoritatively. Uh oh.

“Matt, care to explain this?” Stark pointed a finger at the sky, a twinge of electricity fired off of it. Matt followed the finger upwards. He felt around the sky for a couple minutes. Increasingly getting more confused.

“What is this?” Stark asks.

Matt tilted his head in Iron Man’s direction, he’s sure at this point Iron Man wasn’t just referring to the sky. “…Your finger?” He hesitantly answered.

“Stop playing dumb, DD. Why were you fingering the Avengers Common Area for 3 1/2 hours last week?

So it’s a hologram. Matt stared in awe above Starks finger. That must look awesome.

Matt should just let them know already. It’s not like he was actively hiding it. But it seems rude to both himself and the Avengers to let them think that he can see.

Matt looked to the side, trying to look more convincing. ready to give it his all while he tells iron man that all along he has been blind.

Bracing himself, he speaks. “Stark, I think it’s time we had a conversation. I am unable to se-“ Matt’s burner phone rings, “hang on.”

Matt answers. Foggy is on the other end, sounding quite elated. “Matt, you’ll never believe who I’m with right now!” He says.

Matt doesn’t respond, he’s too busy pondering. Why is he calling his burner phone? What time is it?
“Huh?” He finally responds.

“I’m with Agent Coulson!”

“Agent… what?” Matt asks.

Iron man finally lands on the roof. Finally. Those repulsors were incredibly irritating, especially when they were so close to Matt’s face. Iron man tilts his head as if listening, but he’s probably just trying to convey some type of emotion behind what Matt heard is a very emotionless mask.

“You know… the guy who picked up Romanov when she was drunk? The one who was watching Barton steal all those cars?”

Yes. Matt remembered. “I thought we agreed not to talk about that?” And since when did Foggy call the Avengers by their last names rather than their call signs?

“We did. But I can’t keep anything from you~~” his voice scrunched up. Foggy continued, “Turns out Coulson is a pretty cool dude. Sorry Matt, I have a new best friend.” He joked.

Matt was completely clueless. He never thought he would admit that in his life.

He must’ve paused too long, because foggy quickened the pace in which he was talking, “I was just joking, Matt. I’m sorry. You’ll always be at the top…. Next to my future Wife of course.”

Matt laughed at that.

“Okay, that’s enough. What is going on?” Said iron man. His joking mood seemed to be gone.

“I’d love to hear the details later, Fog. But I’m busy with Tony Stark right now.” Matt’s tone changed.

Foggy sounds surprised, “O-okay. I’ll see you soon.” He hung up, all questions left floating in the air.

Matt turned back to Iron man. “As I was saying, Tony-“

“Oh I know what you were saying. You can’t see what? The appeal of my Tower? The point of interior design?”

“Tony-“

“Matt, are you a spy?”

“As I was saying, Tony-“

“Stop avoiding my question, Murdock. Who were you talking to on the phone? Whose code name is ‘Fog’ and who is this ‘Agent’ he’s referring to?

Matt had no idea.

Stark stays in his suit, Matt could hear it powering up, although it wasn’t meant to be obvious from the outside.

“Matt, I’ll ask you this one time: what were you trying to find by poking around on the Avengers floor?”

“You’re misunderstanding, Stark..” Daredevil got backed up cautiously.

“Am I now?” Stark replied. “I thought we were on a first name basis. You seemed pretty damn comfortable telling whoever this ‘Fog’ is who you were with. Do they know who you are? Is ‘Fog’ the name of some sort of organization that you work for?

Tony Stark in wild conspiracy mode. Huh. Matt dodged a beam, refocusing and taking fighting stance. He doesn’t want to fight.

“Ask Clint.” Matt yelled. He jumped off the edge of the building, vanishing into the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Matt’s phone rang again, this time his personal phone, repeating “Steve”’s name. It was early in the morning. Matt was just about to leave for work.

“Hey, Steve.” Matt greeted as he picked up the phone and started out the door with his cane.

“Matt… how did you know it was me?” There was a smack on the other end of the line, then a hushed, “ow, why did you have to hit my head?”

Someone else was listening to the conversation. Someone who was clearly an Avenger… Someone who was clearly Tony Stark.

“Names display on screens, you idiot.” Tony informs steve politely.

Steve turns back to the phone, “Right, uhh… Tony wants to know where Barton is.”

Matt sighed. “…And why are you asking me?” Matt is so done with this.

There’s some whispering on the other line about ‘traitor’ this and ‘missing’ that. Then Steve Rogers clears his throat and talks to Matt again, “He says that Clint stumbled into the Avengers tower the other day, rode the elevator up, flirted with some interns, fell down the stairs, then disappeared into a closet.”

“Where did he take Clint..” Tony grumbled in the background as a door opened even further in he background.

“Tony, are you spying on us?” A voice that sounds like Bruce asked.

“I check the cameras biweekly for all of our own safety” Tony answered.

Another voice, even further muffled by the phone spoke up, “I check the cameras everyday. It’s just for blackmail though. Plus, It’s very boring here.”

Tony sounded offended, but even more so, “How long have you been there, Nat?”

“Long enough.” She says. “Matt did do something weird last week, but he’s not a traitor just because he touches stuff. Maybe Clint got stuck in the vents. Tony, why don’t we have cameras in the vents?”

“We do.” Tony lies.

“You know that Matt can hear us, right?” Steve points out.

“… what? Can he?” Bruce and Tony ask in unison.

Nat’s voice became more muffled, “He obviously has super hearing. I don’t think you know him as well as you think you do, Tony.”

Tony huffs, “Of course I do. I know everything about him.” Tony leaves the room. “I’m going to find Barton.”

The phone call falls into an awkward silence.

“Hey, Matt, do you like art? There’s a studio in your area I’ve been wanting to check out for awhile. Are you available to join later?”

Matt didn’t see any reason to go to an art studio, but his relationship with the Avengers felt like it was being tested, and he wasn’t looking to be on the Avengers teams bad side, so... “Sure, why not.” He accepted the invitation.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Matt meets a disguised Steve at the studios address. He left had already folded up his cane, avoiding a misunderstanding from a different Avenger. They walk inside together.

Steve immediately falls into a trance. Matt wonders how someone could find so much joy in staring at what he sees as a square on a wall.

Well, Matt can enjoy art too. He might be blind, but paint isn’t entirely 2D. If he focuses hard enough, he can find a pattern. He settles in and stares at one of the larger pieces, tapping his foot to get a better perspective of the piece.

“It’s always nice to see a returning customer. However, I didn’t expect the returning customer to be a blind man.” Someone from behind them asks.

This is bad. There’s only one art studio that he’s ever been in. This is the art studio that was run by Vanessa Fisk of all people. He has to get out of here. But he can’t bail on Steve.

“Blind? I’m sure he’s not that mean over art he doesn’t like. I’m sorry if it came across that way. See, my friend here doesn’t understand paintings in the same way you and I do. Speaking of, this is my first time here, could you show me around? I’m very fond of art like this”

Nice save, Steve. But the worker’s now confused. This might end poorly. But there’s no opportunity to clear things up as the tour starts.

Matt can feel his own heart thumping faster as he spends more and more time in this place. Thankfully, it doesn’t last long… if two hours isn’t long. The place was mostly empty, thankfully. Thankfully there was no Vanessa Fisk there. No Wilson Fisk either. Wilson Fisk…. Matt should check on him.

Right as they’re about to leave, the employee turned to Matt, “I understand that you helped to take down Wilson Fisk, correct?”

Matt nods. Steve’s confused.

“I know you had good intentions, but I haven’t seen Vanessa since. Tell me, is she okay? She really was great company. And she’s the one who worked the most.”

“She’s doing fine.” Matt cringed at the thought. One wrong move, Fisk… Matt can’t say any more.

Matt lead Steve out the door. Once they’re out, Steve turned to Matt.

“Matt… is there something you’re not telling me?” He looked away, then… “Tony’s not right, is he?”

Steve sounded so hurt by the mere thought of Matt betraying them.

“Steve, I’m not betraying anybody.” Matt reassured.

Steve didn’t sound completely pleased by that. “Natasha said she doesn’t remember the night Clint disappeared…”

Okay, where is Clint? That seemed like a bigger question. Or, rather, do the Avengers think Matt kidnapped Clint?

“Foggy, Foggy, Foggy, Foggy,” Matt’s phone rang.

That’s another Question. Matt picks up the phone, “Foggy, you still owe me an explanation for last night.”

Steve made an aching sound, backing cautiously away from Matt.

No. That’s not going to happen again. They are not going to have this conversation. Foggy, why are you calling at the weirdest times?

Foggy started talking, “I thought I already explained. Phil and I ran into each other, He bought me a drink, we had a friendly conversation, then he showed me some funny security footage of Barton stumbling into a closet drunk. He left the closet later and disappeared into who knows where while we were having that goose-chase with Romanov.” Foggy chuckled, “Romanov got chewed out by Nick Fury when she woke up, did you know that? Ehh she probably won’t admit it.”

Ok… That cleared -some- things up. Foggy is acting very weird. Also, “Foggy, who the hell is Phil?”

“He’s the shield agent who picked up Nat. Phil Coulson. He’s a really awesome guy. Matt, how could I become a secret agent?” Foggy burst out laughing. “I could never, Matt. It’s so funny. I’m surrounded by all these secret agents now, but there’s no way I could ever be one, I don’t have the guts… or I have too big a gut.” Foggy continues laughing at his own jokes, sending Matt further and further into his confusion.

Matt gives up asking. “So why are you calling, Fog? I’m busy with Steve Rogers.” Steve Rogers seems more flustered by the second, hopefully he doesn’t go into attack mode like Tony did, especially with Foggy on the phone.

“Okay, wow. No need for such a harsh rejection. I thought I was your best friend?” Foggy jokes, “Are you collecting Avengers? To hang out with? I was calling you just to check in, by the way. Do you realize I have nightmares about you sometimes? I woke up in a cold sweat and finally decided to call you so I didn’t have to stay awake. I’m losing sleep, Matt.”

Foggy lost his humorous attitude. Matt felt really bad. “I’m sorry, Fog. How can I help?”

Foggy lets out a sigh of relief, “You’re fine, Matt. I’m just glad that you’re okay. Maybe if you continue being okay, I’ll stop having nightmares.”

“I’m sorry. But I can’t stop-“

“I know, you’ve told me. I’m glad you have the Avengers now, too. Just… be careful, okay, Matt?”

“Okay. I will. Sleep well, Foggy.”

Foggy sounded like he smiled. The phone hung up.

“Who was that?” Steve asked.

“My friend, Foggy.” Matt cleared up.

“Foggy Nelson?” The dumpster asked.

…The dumpster?

Matt and Steve both looked towards the alleyway. Steve cautiously approached the dumpster there and raised its lid.

Clint Barton crawled out of the dumpster, “you would not believe the week I had.” He started saying.

“Matt, I’m sorry that I doubted your dependability.” Steve apologized to Matt.

“You’re forgiven. Clint, can you tell Tony that I’m not a traitor?” Matt asked Clint.

“…Wow. I missed a lot. Yeah, I’ll clear things up somehow.” Clint patted Matt on the shoulder, “Can you ask Foggy if he has my socket wrench?”

“…Ok.”

Chapter Text

“I made you spinach and eggs, Matty.” A sweet voice woke him up.

Matt grumbled. He has a major headache. The sheets he’s on smell nice.

Matt is hungover. Extremely hungover.

After enjoying some spinach and eggs (an oddly perfect combination), he says goodbye and stumbles out of the apartment.

It wasn’t very long after when he was walking down the sidewalk, tapping his cane, trying to recuperate, when another beautiful woman ran into him at full speed, knocking him over.

Matt felt around for his cane first…. Too dizzy…. He’ll find it later, he decides. Or he’ll let this be yet another cane added to the list of canes he’s ditched around New York.

“I’m so sorry!” The woman hoists Matt to his feet. “Are you injured? I’m not a Medical Doctor, but I am a geneticist, I can take a look. The place I’m going isn’t too far from here.”

Matt considers.

Matt considers it again.

Why not, he thinks.

“I’m not injured, don’t worry. I wasn’t watching where I wasn’t going, either.” Matt laughs at his subtle blind humor.

The woman sounds embarrassed. “I still feel like I must apologize, uh, what’s your name?”

“Matt.”

The woman shakes his hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Matt. My name is Betty Ross.” She says. “Would you like a cup of coffee, perhaps? It’s my treat. My fiancé is already meeting me at the shop, so it’s not out of my way at all.” She adds.

Matt suddenly doesn’t want to go with her anymore. But why not. Free coffee’s always great. Especially after a hangover. “Lead the way.” He says.

“Follow me!” Betty smiles. She starts walking behind Matt… Did…. Did she not see the cane she knocked out of his hand?

Matt shrugs it off and follows. He can try to say he followed the pleasant sound of her skipping footsteps if anyone asks about it.

They get to the Coffee shop. It seems like more than just a coffee shop. Matt smells margherita pizza and fruit smoothies too, along with some hot chocolate packets.

They walk in. Betty immediately turns to greet her soon to be husband and… wait… why does Matt recognize that figure?

“Matt?! What are you doing here?” Bruce banner asks. “Why are you with Betty?” He sounds a bit defensive.

“I didn’t know you had a significant other.” Matt points out.

“We’ll, it’s not exactly something that I want so many people to know about” Bruce adds.

“Calm down, boys. I was just going to buy Matt a cup of coffee because I accidentally knocked him over in the street. Bruce, how do you know him?”

“Just a… work friend.” Bruce rubs the back of his neck.

Betty jumps a little, “O-oh.”

No, Betty. Matt is not a villain.
“I’m from Hell’s Kitchen.” Hoping to convey the message discreetly. He’s not sure where he’s at, in all honesty. But he’s probably not in Hell’s Kitchen if he’s intruding on a date between Bruce Banner and his future wife.

Betty seemed to understand, because she jumped back towards Bruce. “Is he..?” Betty asked in awe.

Bruce sighed. “Yes, he is. Can we grab a table now? Matt, do you want to join us?”

“I would never interrupt a d-“

“We’re not on a date, just grabbing lunch.”

It’s lunchtime? Matt thinks. “Then why not.” Why did he come here again?

They place their orders and find a seat. Once Betty was sure no one could hear them, she leaned over to Matt and whispered, “Are you really the devil of Hell’s Kitchen?”

Matt nods.

“Sorry, Matt. She’s a fan of yours. She thinks you’re really fascinating.” Bruce sighs again.

“It’s as if you’re a walking conspiracy theory… except everyone knows someone who’s seen you by now.” She smiles. “And you make for a fun story in the papers.”

“If you don’t mind me asking…” she continues, “Do you have any powers?”

“A…” Matt clears his throat, “I have a radar sense, of sorts.”

“And super hearing, I presume.” Banner adds. Matt nods. “Wait… did you say radar sense? Like you can feel the world around you?”

“Fascinating…” Betty comments.

Matt couldn’t help but smile. He’s feeling kind of proud, although he probably shouldn’t be.

“How does one acquire radar sense?” Betty asks again.

“Betty, maybe it’s not good to ask that much…”

“Oh, shut it, Brucie. I know what I am doing.” Betty says. Bruce shuts up.

“It’s alright, I don’t mind.” Matt sips his coffee. “I got some chemicals in my eyes during an accident when I was a kid.”

“Huh, that’s very interesting.” Bruce comments.

“Bruce, do we have anything else planned for today?” Betty asks Bruce.

“Not as far as I know, other than some basic lab work.” Bruce answers.

“Matt, do you have any plans?”

“Other than getting over my current hangover, not necessarily.” Matt has some paperwork to do, but he’s not gonna make a point of it quite yet.

Bruce looked at Betty, confused.

“I heard about a Comic Con in this area. I was wondering if you wanted to check it out.” Betty said.

“Comic Con? Since when are you interested in a Comic Con?” Bruce asked.

“I’m always interested in an experiencing something new. Why do you think I got into my profession?”

“No. I don’t want to. It’s too unpredictable.” Bruce said. “And we both started this profession together” he added.

“C’mon, Brucie. You’ll enjoy it.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The three of them walked towards the entrance of the Comic Con. Bruce had a disguise on, of course. Matt can see why he didn’t want to come here. It really did seem to lack control, from an outsiders perspective.

Foggy would be angry when he got back to the office and found out he was finally convinced to go to a Comic Con yet went without him.

Matt didn’t think he would enjoy this. It’s very loud in there. It’s very crowded. People are screaming strange things and the food smells like a sticky mess. (And it’s literally just hot dogs, chips, and chicken nuggets.)

Well, Betty was a highly convincing type of woman.

“Whoah…” Bruce said.

“So many costumes, right?” Betty pointed out. Look! Some of them are dressed as you!”

“You mean they’re dressed up as the hulk.” Bruce corrected. “They wouldn’t be if they could meet him.”

Betty puts an arm around Bruce and pulls him towards her, “the Hulk has saved lives, Bruce. Not a single uncontrolled incident has happened since you joined the Avengers.” She lowers her hands to hold his, “You’re a hero, Bruce. You are in control.”

Bruce bites his lip nervously. “I’m glad to have you, Betty.”

Betty kisses him on the cheek and runs inside, turning back in a gesture for the other two to follow.

Matt feels out of place. Very out of place.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

The first thing they do when they get inside the Comic Con is purchase raffle tickets. Bruce hands Matt 12 of them, declaring, “My treat.”

Matt wasn’t sure exactly what to do with the tickets. It was his first time entering a raffle, surprisingly. He noticed people putting them inside a bowl and followed suit, but before he could, Betty stopped him, “you wrote your name on those, correct?” right. That’s how raffles work. It’s so obvious.

“Do you-“ Matt stuttered, “I was looking for a pen. Do you have a pen?” He asked.

Betty pulled one out of her coat. Matt took it.

“Thanks.” He said. He set the ticket on the edge of a nearby table, writing “Matt M.” On it. He didn’t have his cane with him, so he didn’t want to go all the way by writing ‘Murdock.’ He was trying not to be recognized. In a big city like New York, that’s nearly guaranteed. If it were Hells Kitchen, however, his odds of being recognized would probably increase. He didn’t want to take any chances, so he wrote “Matt M.” On nearly all the tickets.

Bruce looked over his shoulder, seemingly by accident. “Matt, you’re supposed to write your name where it will be visible, not on the side that says ‘Admit One’.”

Matt looked at him in disbelief. Why do the tickets all say ‘Admit One’ on them? Why aren’t they just paper? Shaking his head, he flipped the cards and wrote his name again.

Now that he was pretty much fully over his hangover, he realized there were multiple bowls to place his tickets in. Each bowl was placed in front of some goodies basket wrapped in plastic with some sort of bow on top. Matt wondered which one he should choose.

He noticed Betty placing hers and Bruce’s in a few different bowls. The goodie baskets all seemed the same to Matt, comprised of boxes... Except a couple that smelt strongly of candy, and another that smelt like wine and cheese.

Matt put all twelve of his ‘Admit One’ tickets in the wine and cheese bowl, earning a small laugh out of Betty.

They wandered around the lines of tables. Bruce took some candy off of some booths and some small items off of others. They must be free hand outs.

There was a prize wheel at one of the tables. Betty and Bruce both took a spin, then turned to Matt, expecting him to also.

Breathing in, Matt spun the wheel. It stopped. Matt stepped forward again to touch the front of the wheel so he knew exactly what he won, but the person behind the table stopped him, “No re-spins.” The booth guy then shoved a bag in front of Matt.

Matt reached in the bag and took a piece of candy out. “Don’t be shy, it says you win three pieces.” The booth guy said. Matt let go of a breath he didn’t know that he was holding. He reached in the bag and took two more pieces of candy. When everybody turned their backs, he sniffed them. A chocolate covered peanut butter cup, a fruity piece of taffy, and a small pack of three hard chocolate covered malted milk balls.

Matt isn’t usually a candy person, but he pops the taffy into his mouth, pleasantly surprised if he ignored the rubbery taste that followed the initial artificially flavored sensation, and the extreme amount of red dye.

Curious, he tried the milk ball. When he bit it he knew he wasn’t gonna try another one. That thing was way too hard on his teeth. How do people like these?

He didn’t have very high hopes for the peanut butter cup. He bit the cup slowly. Yep, that’s a lot of sugar. And stale peanut butter.

Maybe Matt isn’t a candy person, after all.

Matt turned his attention back to Bruce and Betty. They had disappeared behind a door. Matt walked towards it and went through.

It is so much louder behind those doors.

Matt smelled sweat, glue, paint, glitter, paper, ink, cotton, dust, cloth, plastic, mold, everything, all at once.

Matt heard a cacophony of commotion, too. The sensory perception in this room was overwhelming.

Bruce and Betty were now standing behind a camera. After one shot on their own, they noticed Matt and motioned him to join.

Matt posed in front of the camera with them. When they were done, they wrote what Matt assumed was an email on a slip of paper. “We’ll send it to you when it gets sent to us.” Betty noted.

Matt could barely stand being in this room. But as they went from booth to both, Matt’s focus shifted to the joy around him. Everyone seemed to happy.

Bruce kept stopping him to show him art pieces, which Matt couldn’t see. He let him hold some, but those were in either in some laminated state or made out of a material that Matt couldn’t get his senses to focus on, like melted beads. Matt was fascinated by the melted beads. Was there really something on them, or was it because each one was colored, making up a beautiful pattern Matt wouldn’t be able to see even if his senses could grasp it.

Matt can trace lines, but he can’t see color no matter what. Matt truly wondered.

Eventually they game across some figurines. Matt loved those, especially the 3D printed ones, he could trace the lines inside of those for miles. Matt carefully picked out the smoothest, smallest one he could find (because they’re so expensive). He payed for it and put it in his pocket. He walked a couple tables down… then turned back to buy foggy a 3D printed sculpture too.

This day wasn’t so bad after all.

Bruce, Betty, and Matt went out for dinner afterwards. Matt eventually said goodbye, acquiring Betty’s phone number and an invitation to their wedding. As he left, he heard them kiss.

Matt thought of Karen. Why did he think of Karen? He wondered if he could ever have a romance like Betty and Bruce do. Maybe someday it’ll be in the cards, if he has good faith.

Sighing, he went back to work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Foggy! I got you a present!” Matt said as he opened the door to Nelson and Murdock.

Foggy motioned he was on a call. Matt waited for him to finish, then pulled out the 3D printed sculptures, handing one of them to Foggy.

Foggy stared at his.

“Matt, do you know who this is?”

“No idea, Fog.” Matt sat down happily. “Who is it?”

Foggy sighed, “Nothing to worry about, Buddy.”

Matt was wondering if he chose something wrong. So save himself, he told the truth. “They’re very smooth. There are so many lines despite that. Foggy, what color is this?”

“That one’s orange, this one is chrome.” Foggy sounded proud. “And seriously, don’t worry about the character. I’m just surprised you bought me a present. What’s the occasion? Where did you even get this?”

“At a Comic Con with Bruce Banner.”

“…”

“…”

“… Of course it was.” Foggy sighed.

They both laughed.

Yes, this was a fun day after all.

Chapter Text

Daredevil lurked around the docks.

He’d received a tip about a stolen art piece, one someone had described as “very valuable” and “possibly high tech.”

Following the last part of the tip, he listened closely for the buzzing of technology. He also scanned the area for anything that resembled a picture frame or canvas.

There was nothing. Matt kept his guard up, searching for anyone nearby, or any possible traps. Nothing.

After a little while, Matt heard small boat start up. A couple scary sounding guys Matt hadn’t ‘seen’ before showed up. They carried something that resembled… a safe? Matt couldn’t tell exactly what was locked inside, it was as if something loose and foamy was disrupting his senses.

A third guy on already in the vessel waved them off, the two still in the docks set down the safe with a heavy duty thump and tried to open it. It didn’t take them long to get it open. the guy on the vessel huffed in an amused tone, clearly expecting something far more secure than that had been.

They pulled out something that almost made Matt huff in an amused tone.

Packing peanuts? Seriously? Matt judged his senses way too quickly. Matt is sorry.

The crooks pulled out something frame like from the mess of polystyrene. That was what Daredevil was here looking for.

They loaded it onto the boat and started the engine. Matt took the opening to race onto the boat behind them, cringing as he crinkled and almost tripped on packing peanuts. It could’ve been avoided, but they were so scattered around the area that the quickest way to avoid the packing peanuts would be to jump into the water.

Matt did NOT want to jump into the water.

Matt made quick work out of the art thieves, or so be thought.

One of them threw the art piece in the direction of the water, leading to Matt jumping toward it, and the other two jumping towards Matt.

Matt turned around and knocked them both unconscious. By the time he turned around, the third guy had already jumped into the ocean, taking the piece with him.

Matt ran to the front of the boat, he’ll have to learn to drive it. Matt is NOT getting in the water. No way.

Matt found something that resembled a steering wheel, he turned it toward the sound of splashing. It went in the opposite direction. “Shit!”

Matt turned it back. He must’ve turned it way too sharply, because the boat almost flipped. Matt was hurled into a wall, almost falling out the open side of the small room.

Gathering his breath, Matt tried again. This time he was actually thrown off the boat.

Great. Just great.

Matt did NOT want to get in the water.

Which way was up, again?

Matt flapped his arms aimlessly. He blew a small bubble out of his mouth, hoping to figure out which way to flap his arms, like how spitting can help if you’re stuck in an avalanche, or so he heard.

Matt regretted that decision. He was running out of breath. He listened for the art thieves paddling.

Matt lost focus as he remembered he needs air.

He flailed around some more, happy when his fingertips finally broke the surface… only for it to be submerged again.

But hey, at least he now had a direction.

Taking a deep breath, he, wait no. He shouldn’t be taken that breath. How could he forget he’s underwater?

Matt couldn’t remember what direction air was at. What if he was swimming downwards? Matt doubted it, considering there was no change in pressure. Matt couldn’t breathe.

He couldn’t breathe.

Matt was drowning.

Daredevil was drowning.

There were hands underneath him, pulling him up.

‘D-dad?’ Nope. It’s just Clint Barton.

Thank God, Clint Barton is here. In a strange place, as always.

Matt fell into a fit of coughing as Clint brought him to the shore. “That…” Matt hacked, “Son of a bitch.” He said. That son of a bitch who made Matt get in the water. Matt did NOT want to swim. Matt is gonna find that guy, if it’s the last thing that he does.

Matt passed out.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

He woke up in the Avengers med bay on a ventilator. His chest felt heavy, and very sore. Matt tried to sit up, but failed. He wanted to cough. No, he wanted to throw up.

Matt frantically patted around, trying to make as much noise as he could to signal to someone that he’s going to throw up.

Everyone ran in. All of the Avengers. All at once. They all crowded through the door.

Matt forgot about his nausea for a moment. Then he quickly remembered. He covered his mouth with his hands, attempting to turn to his side. He made a weird noise with his mouth.

Someone seemed to understand the message, because a vomit bag was shoved towards him and the device covering his face was promptly removed and replaced with a high tech nasal cannula.

He must be on some kind of medication… Matt felt weird. Very weird. Also very angry. And very thankful.

“Thank you, clint.” He groaned after he threw up.

“Hey, I was just on a surveillance mission a mile away, you’re lucky I have good eyes, or you might’ve died.” Clint’s voice was very shaken up. His heart was beating fast.

“I’m sorry that you had to save me.” Matt held back a cry.

Tony spoke up, “Clint called me as soon as you passed out. We had to rush you to the tower. He’s right, you almost died, Matt. You would’ve if he wasn’t coincidentally in the area.” Tony’s heart was also beating fast.

“I’m sorry.” Matt cried out.

“How did you end up almost drowning?” Natasha asked. Straight to the point.

“I was knocked off of a boat that I was trying to steer while chasing an art thief.” Matt is gonna beat that art thief to a pulp.

“There wasn’t any boat near you.” Tony said. “It must’ve rode off without you. I’m sorry for having my doubts, Matt, but it doesn’t sound like you got sucked under. On top of that, the water was perfectly calm and surprisingly clear for the location.”

Steve finished the thought a second later. “Matt… do you not know how to swim?”

Matt didn’t answer.

Bruce spoke up, “it’s probably his radar sense getting clogged down there. I know he can use his eyes and all, but it might be hard to suddenly be deprived of all that noise.”

“I don’t think that’s the case.”Clint responded. He would know. “… did you say radar sense?” Clint was ignored.

“I can give you swimming lesso-“

“No.” Matt didn’t let Steve finish that sentence.

“Matt, you almost died today.” Steve tried to put his foot down. “It’s dangerous to not know how to swim. What if something like this happens again?”

“I’ll figure it out.”

“I agree with Steve.” Nat said. “It’s too big of a risk to go out near the docks again when you have a high chance of drowning if you get knocked into the water.”

“I won’t do it.” Matt retorted.

“Matt, you need to-“

“No!” Matt yelled himself into another coughing fit. “Just- Bruce, when can I leave?”

“Matt? What?” Bruce said.

Steve spoke up in a hushed tone, “let’s give him some space for now.” He ushered everyone outside the room, then spoke in an even softer tone, “I think Matt might be afraid of water.” He told the team.

“We’ll have to get him a therapist.” Nat agreed.

“And swimming lessons.” Bruce nodded.

“How do we convince him?” Clint asked.

“Maybe we should force him.” Tony suggested.

“No, that would make it worse.” Nat said.

Matt focused on his breathing.

“But yeah, he needs to pass a swim test.” Nat finished.

Matt coughed again.

No. Matt is NOT taking a swim test. He is not going anywhere near the inside of a swimming pool.

Matt is gonna catch that art thief.

Matt tried to get up.

Matt failed to get up.

Matt will catch that art thief momentarily.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Matt felt better, he left. He didn’t want to wait around for any talk of ‘swimming lessons’ again.

Although… he did consider it. He could probably learn how to swim if he tried, but he feels like being fully blind is a pretty big detail to leave out before sensory depriving madness.

For now, he didn’t wanna hear it.

It hadn’t taken him long to relocate the art thief. He was with his trio gang again, trying to leave on a boat again. For some reason. It was a different boat, one that was presumably stolen.

Matt jumped the guy, knocking him out I just a couple seconds. He did the same thing to the other two. He picked up the art piece, wondering what’s on it.

The frame had glass in it, he couldn’t tell what was behind the glass. It seemed like a big, fancy frame. Presumably belonging to an art collector, or someone very rich. There was not technology inside it.

Matt set the portrait down and called the police on his new burner phone. (The other burner phone actually did die in the water. Rice couldn’t fix it.)

He waited for the police to arrive then went back to his apartment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

At his apartment, Matt took a very, very long nap. In fact, he wasn’t even sure what day it was when he woke up. If it wasn’t for a call from Foggy asking, “Matt, where are you? You’re late for work.” He might not have gotten up at all.

Matt walked into Nelson and Murdock and immediately noticed something wrong.

“Foggy, is something different about the place?” He tapped his cane…

That art piece was on the wall.

“Foggy, why is that thing on the wall?”

“I thought it was cute.” Foggy chuckled. “The police delivered it to us. It has your picture in it and an ugly sketch behind it.” Foggy slapped his knee. “It’s a shame that you can’t see that. I wonder who was bored enough to make it.”

Matt but his lip angrily. “Clint.” He growled.

“No way…” Foggy thought that Matt was joking.

“Can I give it back to him?” Matt asked. He was only asking as a courtesy.

“Sure, go right ahead.” Foggy understood Matt’s implication.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Matt found Clint sleeping on the couch of the Avengers tower later in the day.

“Clint, I think you lost something.” Matt handed him the frame.

“Wha- oh.” Clint woke up slowly, “HAHA” he laughed out loud when he came to. “That’s not mine anymore. Thats Tony’s.” Then, “Tony!! You lost something!”

Tony didn’t answer.

“Matt, let’s sneak down to his lab.” Clint decided.

“How? And why can’t we just wait?”

“Just follow my lead.” Clint said.

Clint led Matt into a very large ventilation system. Matt knew it was there, of course, but it’s still an odd thing to have in such a high tech high budget place like the Avengers Tower.

The ventilation system felt like home. Matt formed a map in his head before he even stepped inside. This was way better than the Atlantic ocean. He doesn’t even want to think about the ocean.

Clint leads Matt down to a large area closer to the bottom of the Tower, but still secluded from the public and employees.

There was Sci-Fi bs everywhere. Clint led Matt to Tony Stark personal workshop, Matt assumed. Tony Stark was in there.

Clint and Matt hopped down from the vent on the corner of the ceiling. The ceiling laughed… what? Did the ceiling just laugh?

“Aha! I knew you were there, Barton… Murdock?” Tony turned around to see them. “Explain.” He said.

Clint showed him the picture frame.

“What?! I put that under lock and key!” He snorted. “Steve… tsk tsk.”

“Tony, c’mon. What did you do?” Clint asked slyly.

“Whatever do you mean… I’m just building this new suit.” He turned around again, “Matt, what do you think of my new suit?”

It didn’t look impressive, but the inside was very interesting. “It’s… a good suit.” Matt declared.

Tony pointed at him with his screwdriver, “See? I like this guy.” He said. “He’s way cooler than you. He doesn’t sneak into peoples labs unless invited.” then, “… he did invite you… right?”

Matt nodded.

“Clint! I said no bringing other people to my lab!” Tony turned back to his suit, working on it drunkly.

Matt backed away. But stayed in the room.

What a waste of a weekend.

Matt would sleep well later.

Chapter Text

It smelled very sweet inside of the Avengers Tower.

Matt had been avoiding this place, but Foggy insisted that he pay a visit.

Why was he avoiding it? It can be a multitude of reasons.

Matt was known as “The Man Without Fear.” And it had become very clear that Matt can’t stand being in a body of water. Clint has been pestering him about that ever since. The archer is right, he could die if people didn’t know. What if it wasn’t Clint that pulled him out? What if other people knew about his weakness? It scared Matt just about as much as it scared Clint.

The Avengers thought that Matt had vision. They have come so close to finding out, only to ignore every obvious sign there was to point out. It’s not as if Matt was actively trying to let them know, but they should’ve figured out by now.

The Avengers are very caring people as far as Matt could tell. They’re also quite oblivious. The last thing Matt wants to happen is getting roped into some kind of swimming lesson.

And the crayon portrait that Clint drew, it ended up with the police because Matt couldn’t tell what it was. This could’ve hurt is secret identity. He’s lucky there wasn’t a signature on it, or a stark industries logo. There’s one thing worse than a swimming lesson, and that is either Karen or Foggy getting hurt. Especially if it’s because of Matt and/or his alter ego.

Matt was avoiding the avengers less for all of those reasons, but more because he knows it’s wrong to lead them on like this. Is he leading the Avengers on by not telling them he’s blind?

It felt good in a way, to be treated like everybody else.

But Matt is not like everybody else.

What does he even have to hide from them? Certainly not his identity. Not even his best friend, as Clint, Natasha, Steve, and Tony have all at least indirectly met him. Does Bruce know about Foggy? He knows about Matt’s radar sense, and he told the Avengers about that, although it wouldn’t be surprising if that slipped past their minds as well.

The elevator door opened with a ding. Matt stepped out and walked towards the kitchen where Steve and Matt were talking. The kitchen, where that sweet smell was coming from.

“Oh! Matt!” She greeted him. “Can you hand me the red frosting?”

Matt stopped his wave mid-air. He sighed. There it is again. Matt’s lucky that red dye has a strong smell.

Matt reached inside the cabinet, grabbing the red frosting. He handed it to Nat.

She took it. “Uh, Matt, this is pink.”

“What?” He should’ve known. “Sorry, I’ll go get the other one.” He went back to the cabinet and grabbed the red frosting, giving it to Nat.

“Matt, this is also pink.” She said.

“Are you sure?” Were there multiple pink containers? If so, how many? And why can’t he pick apart the red one(s)?

“Yeah, this is pink.”

Matt took the pink container back and went back to the cabinet. He grabbed what he hoped was the red one.

“Matt, there’re only two pink containers. They look exactly the same. Are you feeling alright?”

“Yeah, I am.” He set the pink down on the counter then blindly grabbed a can of frosting.

“Matt… this is blue.”

“I know that.” Matt said, annoyed. He went back to the cabinet and sniffed out two red-smelling containers of frosting. He stood still for a moment, sniffing them while facing the direction opposite of Natasha.

“Matt, are you sniffing the frosting?” Steve asked.

Matt brought both containers to Natasha.

“Uh… thanks.” She said. Matt watched as the grabbed the one from his left hand.

“You’re welcome.” Matt sat down. “So, what are you doing?”

Natasha paused, “I’m frosting a cake.”

“I know.” It was very obvious past Matt’s frustration now that she was, in fact, frosting a cake. “I was asking Steve.”

“I’m just casually conversing with Nat while she frosts this cake.” He said.

Well, this is awkward.

Matt listened as Natasha’s straight spatula slowly and elegantly smoothed the softly textured buttercream. It was meditative, for both of them.

Steve rogers wasn’t talking too much either, just admiring. It was probably like watching someone paint, but it’s 3D and edible.

This continued on for a little over 2 hours. Then Nat turned around, opened the fridge, and grabbed another cake.

She unwrapped it carefully, placed what felt like plastic straws inside the original cake, then placed the new cake on top of it.

“…Why don’t you use something edible, like pretzels to support it?” Steve asked.

“Pretzels get soggy.” Nat replied.

They watched again for 4 more hours. Matt didn’t know it could take so long to simply decorate a cake. It was relaxing though. It was also way better than watching a movie or going to an art studio. Frosting a cake provided a constant sensory response, which felt, smelled and sounded nice. Maybe Matt should try sometime. He could surprise Karen with a cake he made.

Towards the end, Matt heard sprinkles, flowers, and candles being placed on top. Matt wonders what it looked like. It must be beautiful with all that care put into making it.

Those weren’t normal candles on the top. Matt couldn’t help himself. He asked, “what’s on those candles?”

Nat eyed him strangely. “They’re hummingbirds.”

“Bird species are really fun to learn, Matt. Should I take you bird watching sometime?” Asked Steve.

Matt genuinely considered it. But ultimately rejected the offer. “I’m alright, thanks.” It would probably be the same for him as perching on the corner of a rooftop and watching the people on the streets would be like. The tiny, fast paced heartbeats of the critters all around are a bonus Matt hears every day.

“Let me know if you change your mind. It’s a lot different than watching pigeons wander where they shouldn’t.”

Natasha laughed at that. “It was their world first.” She pointed out.

Natasha washed her hands while steve washed the dishes. Matt wiped the counter.

“What’s this for, exactly?”

“We were just bored.” Nat said.

Matt nodded.

She pulled a knife out of a drawer, “do you want some?” She asked.

“Sure!” Matt smiled.

Natasha cut into the cake. Soon all three of them had a slice in front of them.

Matt examined his slice. It was chocolate and vanilla flavored. Marble cake. The frosting as thick and evenly spread. There was a flower and a half on top of it… Matt didn’t get a candle. Natasha did, though.

It was delicious.

The elevator opened, Tony walked out of it. “Friday said you’re eating cake without me?”

“Knife’s over there if you want a slice.” Steve said.

Tony scoffed, grabbed a slice and sat down.

“Hey, Matt. Fancy seeing you here.” Tony pointed out.

Matt pursed his lips. “Hello, Tony.”

They all ate their cake in silence.

They sat in silence afterward.

“Tony, you have frosting on your chin.” Matt pointed out.

Tony wiped his face. “Did I get it?”

The frosting is now on your shirt, Tony. Matt didn’t say it out loud. “Yeah, you got it.

…

“Matt, there is frosting on your sunglasses.” Tony said.

“Ah, Thank you.” Matt sniffed the air and wiped the frosting off his glasses.

“Why do you always wear those shades inside?” Steve asked.

Matt stayed silent.

It must be him. Matt didn’t want to tell the Avengers he was blind. In some sick kind of way… Matt kind of liked their misinterpretation.

“I uh…” Why is he trying to make excuses for himself? They know about his super senses, right? “My eyes are sensitive.” He technically wasn’t lying. But at the same time… Matt was one of the few with zero light perception. He could’ve just said it made him look more serious while talking. He has no idea where his eyes are pointing, after all.

“Really? That sensitive? I sorry, man.” Tony said.

See? They still don’t know.

After a silence, Tony spoke up again. “Hey, I found Candyland downstairs. Do you guys wanna play it?”

“Sounds good to me.” Nat said.

Matt and Steve both said, “What is Candyland?”

“Unbelievable.” Tony pinched his nose.

“It’s a board game based on colors, basically.” Nat explained, not very well.

Well it’s enough for Matt to be concerned. “Do you have any other games?” He asked.

“I’ll have to look…” Tony thought for a moment. “We could play a card game. How does Apples to Apples sound?”

“That’s a little childish to me.” Nat said.

“Nat, we’re all childish here.”

“Good point.” Nat smiled smugly, “Friday, can you replay that?”

“We’re all childish.” Tony’s voice rang from the ceiling.

Tony’s face turned to an angry pout.

“You got a picture of that, right?” Natasha asked the ceiling.

“Always, Nat.” Said the ceiling.

Tony stood up, shook his head, and left the room.

“I should get going too.” Matt stood up. He’s been there for at least 7 hours. He doesn’t need an excuse.

“We’ll call you if we need you.” Said Natasha.

“Ok.” Matt went down the elevator with Tony standing next to him.

Tony spoke, “Are you going through the main entrance this time or just sneaking out like you usually do?”

“I’m sneaking out. Nothing against you.” Matt answered.

“I sure hope not.” Tony huffed. “Why don’t you like the main entrance? It’s not like people would recognize you.”

Matt quickly thought up an excuse, “I’m a lawyer, Tony. You’re an avenger. Even though we’re not seen together it’s still a very notorious area and someone might try to use it against me in a case.” He felt bad when he said that.

“Oh… I see.” Tony seemed kind of hurt by this. Tony pressed a button on the elevator. What was that? “Me, personally… I don’t think that it’s a bad thing to see you at Avengers tower. With me? That’s a different story. But you’ve hung out with all the other Avengers besides Thor, of course. He’s off world. Why don’t you and I spend the day together? Just the two of us?”

“Tony, it’s getting pretty late.” Matt pointed out.

“Tomorrow then. Where should I pick you up at?”

“What if I’m busy tomorrow?”

“Just pick a day, I’ll show up.” Tony said.

There doesn’t seem to be much of a way out of this.

“Would Monday work?” Matt asked. He was sure there wasn’t anything of value happening on Monday. “If I have an unexpected case, then we might have to change it, but I’ll probably be free on Monday.”

“Monday it is, then.” Tony proudly huffed. “I’ll send a car… where?”

Matt gritted his teeth. “You don’t have to send a car…”

“I’ll be in it. Should we meet at the tower then?”

“Okay.” Matt sighed in defeat.

The elevator dinged open. Tony and Matt both walked off in opposite directions. Matt went down the stairs. (He didn’t have time to read the braille buttons on the elevator, and he was pretty sure he needed to go down one more floor.)

“Clint, Clint, Clint” his phone rang.

“Hello?”

“I’m with Foggy. He said he’ll do swimming lessons with you if you want.”

“Ah, how nice of him. Tell him not a chance.”

Chapter Text

Monday came by fast. Matt waited in the Avengers common room for a pretty long time. No one came by.

That’s weird; Tony Stark is late.

He really doesn’t want to talk to the ceiling, that’s incredibly strange.

Matt went down the elevator and out his usual door. He heard a heartbeat next to it. Tony.

Matt snuck up behind him and tapped him on the shoulder, in response Tony jumped and sweared.

Tony straightened out his clothes. “See, it’s creepy to hang out around side doors.”

“Why did you build it then?”

“You’re a Lawyer, Matt. You should know how regulations work.”

Matt didn’t say anything. Tony led him to a car. They sat in the back of it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

They soon arrived… at a burger joint? What was this?

Tony stepped out of the car silently. Matt stepped out too and they walked across the parking lot.

They stopped in the middle of the restaurant. Tony looked up, as if examining something, the menu.

Matt looked where Tony was looking. He didn’t see anything but judging from the smell he assumed it was a lot of burgers and a lot of fries along with a lot of ice cream. None of the equipment smelled clean. In fact, this place smelled horrible. It smelled worse than the Comic Con.

Tony stepped up to the counter. Matt followed. “Two cheeseburgers, please.” He said to the person behind the register. He then looked back at Matt.

Matt didn’t want to try this crap. “I’m good, thanks.”

Tony turned back to the cashier. “Add another cheeseburger and a two milkshakes.”

Don’t show it on your face don’t show it on your face don’t show it on your face-

“What’s with your face? Have you never tried a cheeseburger?”

“Not since I was little. At least not at a place like this.” Foggy’s family made burgers every once in a while, but they were made with love. Not like this.

Tony acquired the food and sat down. Matt sat across from him. The table had crumbs all over it… and stains. It also smelled like spit.

Trying to hold it together, and think of something to say, Matt stared forward.

“Wow, those glasses really make you look serious. Are you allowed to wear those when you go to court? That would be one hell of an intimidation.” Tony pointed out.

“They let me wear them.” He shouldn’t have said that.

“They… let you?” Tony pulled his own sunglasses down.

Oh no. Was Tony catching on?

Tony stayed in that position and pushed a cheeseburger towards Matt.

Matt hesitantly picked it up while almost gagging at the smell. “Do you come here often?”

“All the time.” Tony reminisced.

There was silence for awhile while they ate. Matt did manage to eat the entire burger, by some miracle.

“Foggy, Foggy, Foggy,” Matt’s phone cried out. Seriously? Now?

“Well are you gonna pick that up?” Asked Tony.

Matt picked up the phone, “Foggy, I can’t really talk right now. I’m with Tony.”

“Tony? Again? Didn’t he shoot a repulser beam at you last time this happened?”

“That was a long time ago.”

“It was only a couple weeks ago, Matt.” Foggy was right. “I guess I’ll talk to you later. Call me when you’re done, please?”

“I will.” Said Matt, then he hung up.

“Foggy Nelson is your friend, I presume?” Tony spoke again.

“Yeah.” Matt paused. “Wait… how do you know his last name?”

“Why not assume that someone told me?” Tony asks. “It could’ve been Clint, or Steve. I don’t think you’re a traitor anymore, so someone must’ve said something, right?”

“I wouldn’t doubt that.” Matt agreed. He doubted Clint said anything, however.

“Matt, you do realize that we’re out in public together now, right?”

Matt turned his head. “This place is empty.”

Tony shook his head. Then he looked down and laughed. “This alleged radar sense of yours… how does it work? Does it allow you to see color, too?”

“What?”

“I’m not an idiot, Matt. Although after this little stunt I’m second guessing.”

“Did you—?”

“Yes, I looked you up. I thought you were acting suspicious the last time you were at the tower.” Stark sighed, “I should’ve done so sooner.”

Matt’s breath hitched in a way he never thought it would.

“Woah, no one knows but me.” Tony sounded serious all of a sudden. “Here’s the deal… I want in on it. I want to prank my dumbass team mates.”

Matt doubled back. That kind of language was not something he would’ve expected out of Tony stark. “Tony… I’m not playing any kind of joke.”

“I know, and that’s the fun in it.” Tony leaned closer, “I think we should turn it into some kind of joke.”

Matt sat there awkwardly. “…How?”

“Simple. We just pretend that you can see.”

“… I’m gonna go call Foggy back.”

Tony watched Matt leave, wearing a confident and menacing stare.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Matt and Foggy exit the office laughing at something Foggy said.

They stop when they see a mysterious car on the street.

“Matt, do you recognize them?”

“No.”

They continued walking. The car followed them.

Matt leaned toward Foggy. “The heartbeat in that car sounds weird… as if it’s mechanical.”

Foggy raised an eyebrow. They looked at the car. It stopped in front of them and rolled down a window to reveal… absolutely no one.

“Is this some kind of high tech joke?” Asked Foggy.

Matt sniffed the air. There’s no flesh inside the car. “Who is it?” He asked just in case.

“It’s no one, Matt. The car is haunted.”

“I don’t think so.”

Matt stepped towards the car. Foggy grabbed his arm to stop him, but Matt reassured him it’s alright. Matt wasn’t entirely sure if it’s alright, but it’s horrible when Foggy’s worried.

Matt cautiously reaches a hand through the window and onto the passenger seat. There’s a note. In Braille.

Matt backed away from the car and turned towards foggy, lifting a finger up to the note. “Dear Matt, get in the drivers seat and pretend you’re driving. Don’t touch anything. Just trust me. -TS”

They said nothing. They just stared.

“GET IN!!” The car shouted. Matt and Foggy jumped.

“W-what the Fuck.” Foggy stuttered. “You’re not actually going to get in that thing, right?”

Matt was already walking towards the car.

“Matt!” Foggy yelled.

“Sorry, Fog. I’ve gotta follow all my leads.” Matt tossed his cane to Foggy then got in the car. “Take care. I’ll see you soon.”

“Matt, no!” Foggy quickly spoke, “Not without me-“ the car had driven off by the time Foggy reached the door.

Matt is so going to be in trouble next time they see each other.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

OK. Matt is driving a car. Not actually driving, but he still looks like he’s driving. It feels kind of cool. Thank you, Tony.

As much as Matt hated talking to speaker systems, he had to ask. “Tony, where am I going?” As the words left his mouth, he was suddenly afraid that he walked in a trap.

The car was silent.

Matt lifted his chin, then aggressively pulled the door handle over and over and over until-

“Calm down! This is an expensive car.” There were other people in the background of the audio.

“Stark, explain.”

Stark breathed in. “Just follow my lead.”

The radio static cut off again.

Matt took off his sunglasses, hoping to not get recognized by other drivers. Although judging by how Foggy hadn’t noticed the lack of a driver in the vehicle, it was pretty safe to say that Tony had these front windows illegally tinted.

The car came to a stop. Matt turned his head to figure out where he was at. He heard the chatter in the distance.

Soon Four figures all got in the car. The Avengers, minus Natasha Romanov and Thor. Tony sat next to Matt. The rest of them crowded in the back with Bruce squashed between Clint and Steve.

Matt tried to give a disapproving look to Stark. In response he got a noise from tony that sounded like a suppressed laugh.

“Thank you for picking us up, by the way. Tony said you offered.” Steve explained.

Matt lowered his head, trying to stare harder. Tony didn’t take him seriously.

“I thought you said you didn’t have a car?” Asked Clint.

“You remember that?”

“Yeah. I can hold my alcohol pretty well.”

That’s hard to believe considering that Nat was so black out drunk last night she didn’t remember even entering the bar. She definitely didn’t remember Matt literally shouting ‘I’m Blind!’ to Agent Coulson. In her defense, she did sound very unconscious when that happened.

“Can you hold up against Nat?” He asked. The entire car turned towards Clint.

“Fuck no.” Clint said. “I’m also not a heavy drinker. I have kids, you know.”

“That’s not really ‘holding your alcohol.’” Said Tony.

Matt chuckled, “Not as far as I could tell. You were acting inebriated.”

“Never mind! Just drive!” Clint’s body heat raised just a little, signaling embarrassment.

Matt looked toward the front of the vehicle, grabbing the wheel. He tilted his head towards Tony when nothing happened.

“What are you waiting for? Drive!” Tony rudely said. The car started after that and off they drove into the dangerous traffic.

Shortly after, they arrive at the Avengers tower. (Where were they before?)

They all get out and walk inside the main entrance. Tony lingers next to Matt. “See? I told you it’s okay to go in the main door with us.”

That statement was short lived.

“Matthew Murdock?” The receptionist recognized Matt in awe. She must be from around his area, or heard about him in the news.

Tony swooped to the rescue, ushering Matt to the side as if leading him in the direction which he really couldn’t see. Tony smiled as they walked by. The receptionist awkwardly waved back then went back to work.

Oh no. Did the rest of the Avengers notice?

Apparently they didn’t.

“How did she recognize you, Matt?” Bruce asked when the elevator closed.

“I’m a really good lawyer.” He replied. It was the truth. Why else would Matt be famous? Unless he also recognizes him from his chemical accident, like Foggy did when they first met.

“I’ll have to keep that in mind.” Clint looked to the front of the elevator in awe.

Tony got a bright idea, “Clint, can Matt shoot one of your arrows?”

“That offends me, Tony. No.”

“Just checking.”

How long was this elevator?

They arrived at the top floor.

The very top floor.

Where the mini quinjet was.

… Tony wasn’t planning to make Matt “drive” the quinjet, was he?

“Avengers, I have decided to start a book club.” Tony said.

… huh?

“Tony, since when do you read books?” Asked Bruce.

“Tony, Since when do you think you could make me read a book?” Asked Clint?

“Tony, since when did you accept my suggestions without an ulterior motive?” Asked Steve.

“Oh, shut up. Just grab a book from off that shelf over there.” Tony pointed.

They all grabbed a book and sat in a circle.

“Why are we doing this on the roof?” Asked Matt.

“To enjoy the pretty view.” Tony answered.

Matt sighed.

They opened up the book. “Who wants to start?” Asked Tony.

Steve tried to speak up but Bruce interrupted him, “I will.”

Bruce read the first chapter.

“Tony, that took like 20 minutes.” Clint sounded bored.

“Matt, read the next page. I’ll finish the chapter.”

What is Tony planning?

Matt looked down at the book and tried to feel the ink with his fingers. There were certainly a lot of words. A lot of very small words. Matt took a breath when he thought he’d figured out what the first sentence said… but then he heard Tony whispering in a tone that only he could hear.

Matt couldn’t help but smirk. It’s crazy, but it’s thoughtful. He took his hand off of the page and repeated what Tony said. Then Tony finished off the chapter.

Clint groaned.

“This should be a good stopping point for the day.” Tony closed his book dramatically.

“But Tony, that ended on a cliff hanger.” Bruce retorted.

“Tony, I didn’t get a turn to read.” Steve said.

Clint was halfway to the door when an alarm started.

It was a very loud alarm. Matt covered his ears and squeezed his eyes shut. Steve saw this and covered his ears, trying his best to suppress the sound until they made it to the quinjet. Steve took out some headphones and placed them both on his and Matt’s head.

By the time Matt was reoriented, everyone else was in a seat, and they were taking off. In the air. Yikes. But not too scary.

Clint was the first to say something, “Are we dropping Matt off first, or…”

“I’ll be fine.” Matt said. “I can help.”

“Aww… it’s almost as if you’re on the team already.” Tony mocked.

“Already?” Matt questioned.

“It’s bound to happen at some point.” Clint agreed.

“No it’s not.”

Chapter Text

They landed at the location of an ongoing fight. Something smelled strongly of cigarettes… and rubber.

“Are you really gonna fight in that, Matt?” Asked Bruce.

“Well, it is still technically a suit.” Clint defended. he was referring to the dress suit Matt walked out of Nelson and Murdock wearing.

“Do you have a scarf around here?” Asked Matt. He doesn’t necessarily need to change as long as he can cover up his face.

“Nuh uh. You are not going out there in a normal suit with a scarf covering your eyes.” Tony retorted.

“He’s right, how are you planning to see out of that?” Asked Clint.

“I have my ways.” Matt smirked.

Matt was almost hit in the chest with something tiny Tony threw. The tiny object turned mid air and chased Matt until it finally landed on his cheek.

There was a slight pinch of static. Then the tiny thing replicated. So many, utterly disturbing times. Matt’s breath shook like he never thought it could. He started dancing to get away from it. He scratched his hands all over himself, “TONY WHAT THE FUCK IS THIS” he screamed.

“It’s just a quickly made stealth suit. Generic, so anyone can wear it. This one won’t turn you invisible.” He saw Matt struggling, “oh, yeah. That’s nano tech.”

“H-how do I get iT OFF?!” Matt couldn’t stop flinching. The buzz was irritating. It felt like millions, no, billions of tiny bugs crawling all over his skin. He held in the urge to yell, ‘EEP!’

Matt barely even sensed when Clint slapped him on the back, saying “We’ve all been where you’re at, buddy.“

The Avengers exited the vehicle. Leaving Matt to his distress. Those assholes.

Matt stumbled out of the quinjet, trying his best to focus through all the little itches on his skin. He followed the Avengers heartbeats, although, they were slightly hard to hear over his own heart pounding in his ears.

Where is his cane? With Foggy. Maybe Matt should take this as a sign to keep it with him at all times… either way, he will be having a long talk with his priest when this is over.

Matt forced his teeth apart, the grinding noise further worsening this whole ordeal.

“Ha! Look at how ugly this guys suit is!” Clint yelled. Matt nearly hyperventilated. Clint continued when he noticed Matt, “Matt, would you look at this shit?”

The villain ahead seemed offended by this. Hawkeye dodged blow after blow, eventually all the Avengers joined the fight. Hawkeye dove out of the cluster of heroes and fired modified arrows at the opponent. One guy against four Avengers and a sensory overloaded Daredevil.

Matt punched and kicked, missing every once in awhile but mostly keeping up with the Avengers. Eventually they got him down. Steve approached the unconscious bad guy, then came a small explosion.

Matt screamed. He dove down to the floor and got in the fetal position as the villains fail-safe or whatever that was emitted loud ringing, a strong sewery scent, and another high pitched sound. This along side the nano-tech, Matt just couldn’t take it.

When the ringing was over, the high pitched sound remained for minutes. Matt stopped itching and tried to lay as still as possible. He tried to meditate.

“Daredevil… are you alright?” Steve cautiously approached him.”

“I’m f-fine.” Matt forced himself to say.

“No, you’re not.” Bruce turned towards his team, “help me bring him to the jet.”

The Avengers picked Matt up limply and got him to a chair on the jet. He was seat belted in. Matt still refused to move.

“Tony can you turn this nano-suit off so I can get a better look at him?” Bruce asked.

The nano-torture finally released itself from Matt. His cheek was still very itchy, though. The tiny object was still on it. Matt allowed a breath to leave his lips. It did not sound very satisfied.

The quinjet started up as Bruce started his primary examination. He checked airway, breathing, pulse, then asked if Matt could feel all of his extremities.

“I feel everything.” Matt whispered.

“…ookay.” Bruce said. “How is your hearing? That sound was pretty loud.”

“Yeah, they were.” Matt remembered.

“They?”

“Yeah, both of them. And the smell.” Matt said.

“I only heard one.” Steve said.

They avengers were taken aback. “That must’ve been terrible for you.” said Tony.

“Yeah, it was. Your suit didn’t help at all.” Matt’s voice cracked by the end of it. Tony sounded genuinely confused, as did the rest of the Avengers.

Matt didn’t want any more attention. He just wanted to go home. He wasn’t pissed off anymore, just tired.

Luckily, Foggy chooses the worst times to call.

Bruce made a surprised noise and took Matt’s phone out of his pocket.

“Hello?” Bruce answered.

“Who is this.” Foggy stated, coldly.

“Matt, who is this?” Bruce covered up the speaker to ask Matt.

Steve spoke up, “It’s Foggy, Matt’s friend.”

“Ah.” Bruce nodded. He put the phone back to his ear, “I’m also Matt’s friend.” He said.

“What?! Who is this? How do you know him?!” Foggy was getting defensive, and scared.

Matt gave up. “J-just put it on speaker.” He directed.

Bruce put the phone on speaker, “Y-you’re on speaker now, Foggy.” He put the phone on the ground then whispered in Matt’s ear, “can I check your pupils?”

It was Matt’s turn to make a surprised noise.

“What was that?!” Yelled Foggy. “Is Matt okay?”

“Hey Foggy! It’s Clint!” Clint grabbed the phone.

Foggy didn’t budge, but he still sounded more relieved. “Who was just talking? Why didn’t Matt answer?”

Bruce checked Matt’s pupil reaction with the click of a flashlight pen after Matt nodded. He then turned off the flashlight, put his head in his hands, and groaned.

“What’s going on?” Steve asked when he saw Bruce groan.

Bruce didn’t want to speak. He instead just looked at Matt, as if Matt was gonna see him. Clearly Bruce knows Matt is blind already, but Matt appreciates him remembering the radar sense…?

Matt wants to tell them now. Matt is kind of tired of this. But Matt doesn’t want to talk right now either.

“He’s uh, injured, I think.” Clint answers Foggy’s question. “We’re on a quinjet going to the Avengers tower as we speak- Hello?” Foggy had already hung up. “Matt?” Clint turned to Matt.

Matt found the strength to tilt his head up. he smirked, yeah, good luck dealing with an angry Foggy Nelson.

“Tony, get this thing off of my cheek.” Matt finally said.

The tiny object flew off of Matt’s cheek and back to wherever it came from. Matt closed his eyes, listening to the Avengers heartbeats flutter when he did so. This is gonna be a long night yet again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

When they got to the tower, Foggy was at the bottom demanding to see Tony Stark. He was avoiding saying Matt’s name, but he was also announcing himself as a friend who had an urgent matter to talk about. Security wasn’t buying it.

Matt stood at the top of the building, listening as the rest of Avengers left the quinjet. “Tony, can you tell the speaker system to let Foggy in?”

“You can hear that?” Tony said. “Friday, let Foggy Nelson up.”

The elevator opened down below. Security received the orders on ear comms. Foggy was confused. He cautiously stepped in the elevator.

They waited for Foggy on top of the Avengers tower.

“Wow, it’s windy up here.” Foggy noted as he stepped on to the floor. Then he seemed to remember why he was here. He ran up to Matt, checking him over. Once he ensure that he’s okay, he turned to the Avengers. “Explanation. Now.”

“Matt, where did you find this guy?” Bruce asked, intimidation working.

“Law school.” Matt said.

“Oh.” Steve said quietly.

“Matt, where were you injured?” Foggy asked.

“No where. Let’s go.”

Foggy paused. “Did you get medically cleared? Don’t lie to me.”

“I’m fine.”

“… Do we need to talk in private?” Foggy is on mom mode.

Matt walked towards the elevator.

“Why so hastey?” Tony asked.

“Why so ‘hastey’?” Matt reponded, “You put me in a nano-tech suit without any kind of warning, then walked away when I said to take it off.”

“He WHAT?!” Foggy was in multiple different types of disbelief.

“I’ll be back soon.” Matt marched to the elevator. Foggy ran after him.

“Wait!” Said Tony. Matt isn’t sure if he wants to explain himself or just make more excuses.

They ended up on the main floor. Foggy pulled Matt’s cane out of his pocket.

Matt put a hand out, “We can take the side door.”

The Avengers were already waiting for them outside. Foggy jumped, startled. “How did you get down so fast?!”

“We flew with Tony.” Bruce said. It was the most bullshit explanation that Matt has ever heard, but it made sense.

“What the-“ Clint noticed the cane in Foggy’s hand. “Is that for undercover work?”

“Foggy, are you blind?” Steve asked. Matt wasn’t sure how Steve or Clint were wiring their brains at the moment.

Tony sighed. “Let’s go back inside.” Tony’s disappointment was obvious in his voice, He probably had more ‘pranks’ up his sleeve for the Avengers, maybe even a reveal planned, one that Matt did not consent to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Once inside the tower, they all sat in the Avengers kitchen. It felt like a conference was being held… or an intervention.

Bruce had his head buried in his arms on the table. Tony was putting on a pot of Coffee. Steve was staring at Tony. Clint was staring at Matt and Foggy, who were sitting there, not knowing what to do.

Eventually Tony sat down. Clint had enough of staring, he looked around and asked, “What’s this all about?”

“Matt is blind.” Bruce’s voiced was muffled by his arms.

Clint huffed out a laugh, “No he’s not.”

Steve opened his mouth, then closed it, then opened it again, then closed it again.

Clint continued, “Seriously, he drove a car earlier today. Tony showed him a video of a robot throwing up his guts on Bruce.”

Tony covered his mouth with his hand.

“There’s no way.” Clint said. “Absolutely none.”

“Is that why Tony was whispering Matt’s part of the book when he was reading it?” Steve asked, “And why he took so long to give Natasha red frosting?”

“… I’ll need proof.” Said Clint. “How many fingers am I holding up?” He asked Matt.

“Four.” Matt said.

“See? Not blind.” Clint leaned back proudly.

“Radar sense.” Bruce muffled. Clint’s face dropped. “…wait, Tony, does this mean you were just -pretending- to like book club?” Bruce suddenly sounded very hurt. His question was ignored.

“Foggy? Did you know about this?” Clint asked.

“I’m his law partner and best friend. Of course I knew.” Foggy replied, “You saw us walking out of the courthouse with his cane.”

“I don’t remember that.” Clint said. “That wouldn’t have slipped past me.”

An awkward silence filled the room.

“How am I going to tell Betty?” Bruce asked. “She’ll never let me live this down.”

“He met Betty?” Clint asked.

“Who is Betty?” Foggy asked.

“She didn’t seem to know either, in your defense.” Matt said.

“Yeah… thank you.” Bruce did not seem reassured. “Betty’s my Fiancé.” Bruce answered Foggy’s question.

They sat in silence for a few more minutes.

The elevator dings, Nat walked in the room.

“Why is everybody sulking?” She asked, grabbing herself a cup of the coffee Tony made.

“Matt is blind…” Clint looked down at the table.

“Hah! Good one.” She turned around. Natasha noticed Foggy, “Who is that?”

“I’m Foggy.” Foggy waved.

Natasha sipped her coffee.

“So that chemical accident you had, that blinded you?” Bruce asked.

“Yes it did.” Matt said.

Natasha paused. “You’re being serious?” Matt and Foggy nodded.

Natasha pulled out her phone and typed something. She gasped.

“What? What is it?” Steve asked.

“The first thing that comes up when you search Matt Murdock in the internet… Blind Lawyer.”

“What!” Steve yelled.

“All this time…” Clint sulked.

“How did I not notice?” Bruce questioned.

Awhile later, Matt and Foggy left the room, Matt tapping his cane along the way, leaving the Avengers stunned.

“I have questions for you too, Matt.” Foggy stated as soon as the elevator closed.

“So do I, Fog… So do I.”