snippet that doesn't count for hc bingo unless i write more

"Hey buddy," he greets Beetle with a pasted-on smile.

Ted winces. "He really chewed you out, didn't he."

Booster's shoulders come down a little. He doesn't have to act for Ted.

"He's Batman," he shrugs. "Lecturing the rest of us while looming out of the shadows is his job."

Ted gives a head tilt of agreement.

"Just... wounded pride and all that." A fleeting, sarcastic smile. "You know how it is."

Ted pats his shoulder. He rests his hand there, a vague suggestion of warmth through a suit designed to protect.

"I do, buddy. I do." He lets his hand drop. "Anyone could have made the same mistake, Boost."

"Anyone but Bats. Or Supes."

"Or Diana."

"Definitely not Barda."

"Well," says Ted. "I would have made the same mistake."

"I feel so comforted," Booster says with a small smirk.