Preview of August exclusive Patreon story, a bit of DC story <br /><br />Harley's New Friend - (August patreon.com exclusive story)<br /><br /><br />In the dimly lit O'Sullivan's bar, nestled within the chaos of Gotham, the bartender, James, was methodically cleaning wine glasses when the door swung open. In walked an unexpected patron: Dr. Harleen Quinzel, infamously known as Harley Quinn.<br /><br />Her face, free from its vibrant makeup, showed signs of weariness, and her casual attire was uncharacteristically plain. She took a seat at the bar, locking eyes with James.<br /><br />"Evening, Dr. Quinzel," James greeted, deliberately using her academic title.<br /><br />"You're one of the few who calls me that. Whatcha servin'?" Harley asked, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.<br /><br />"How about a gin and tonic?" James suggested, already reaching for the gin bottle.<br /><br />She tilted her head and smiled, "Sure, but why the 'Doctor'? Most just shout 'Hey Harley' and hope I don't bash their heads in."<br /><br />"You earned that title," James responded, pouring the tonic. "It deserves respect, regardless of... other life choices."<br /><br />Harley laughed, a light, genuine sound. "You're something else, ya know? Most are too scared or too judgmental. It's a breath of fresh air being seen as something more than just Joker's ex-sidekick."<br /><br />"You studied psychology, right?" James inquired. "It's a tough field. It takes someone special to try and understand the human mind."<br /><br />"Yeah, I wanted to help people, to understand them. Somewhere along the line, things got... complicated," she admitted.<br /><br />"I can't even begin to imagine," James replied. "But tonight, you're Dr. Quinzel, and I'm just James, the bartender. Let's keep things simple."<br /><br />She grinned, "Alright then, James, tell me about yourself. Why serve drinks in Gotham of all places?"<br /><br />"I wanted to write once. The stories people tell here, the secrets they spill... It&#8217;s good material. But then, I guess I got caught up in just listening. Helping in my own way."<br /><br />The night flowed with ease as they both shared stories, laughed at shared jokes, and enjoyed the serenity the bar offered. By the end, a palpable connection had formed between the two of them&#8212;a bridge built on mutual respect and understanding.<br /><br />As Harley stood to leave, she looked James squarely in the eyes. "You know, I usually am only friends with women, but you seem really cool. I'd like to hang out again. Maybe we can fix that... other part."<br /><br />Continued on <a class="external" href="https://www.deviantart.com/users/outgoing?https://www.patreon.com/RavynCrow">www.patreon.com/RavynCrow</a>