Location: Xavier Institute, Kitchen
Time: Midnight
The kitchen was dark save for the soft hum of the refrigerator and the glow from a single overhead light. Riven sat at the table, elbows on his knees, phone in hand. He wore a clean black shirt, his hair still damp from a late shower. The silence was comforting, a rare moment that didn't demand a fight or a choice.
He tapped Tony's name on the burner phone and waited.
"Yeah?" Tony's voice came groggy but alert.
"It's me."
"Riven. Everything okay?"
"I wanted to give you an update," he said. "There's a kid. Hydra turned him into something—mutated his powers, erased his memories. He's here now. Xavier's helping him."
Tony exhaled sharply. "You alright?"
"Bruised. Healing."
"What about intel?"
"I found some files—encrypted lab logs. I've got them stored. I'll bring them when I return. Once the kid's stable."
"Alright. Just say the word. And Riven…"
"What?"
"Good work."
Riven hung up. He didn't need praise. But the words lingered.
Behind him, soft footsteps approached. He turned slightly to see Rogue entering, her white streak of hair catching the dim light.
"Couldn't sleep either?" she asked.
"Didn't try," he said simply.
She grabbed a glass of water and leaned on the counter, studying him.
"You always this... stoic?"
Riven didn't answer. His gaze remained on the table.
Rogue stepped closer. "Can I ask something personal?"
He glanced up, silently giving her permission.
"What were you like before all this? Before Hydra?"
He stayed quiet for a long time. The hum of the fridge was the only reply.
Rogue nodded, accepting the silence, and turned to leave.
"I was an orphan," Riven said softly. "Didn't have anyone. That's it."
Rogue paused in the doorway. Her expression softened, but she didn't pity him. She offered a small smile—genuine, quiet.
"Thanks for sharing," she said, then disappeared into the hallway.
Riven stared at the dark screen of his phone. He didn't move for a long while.