#and they can do that without making dick and kory a thing again

[hood-ex]

You mentioned Mar'i and now I want an AU where Dick and Kory get pregnant during the New Titans era. I don't need Kory and Dick to stay together as long as they're good co parents. It's really cute to imagine Dick, Roy and Donna having babies around the same time.

Good co-parents Dick and Kory is exactly what I'm saying!! Like they can give us Mar'i without giving us long-term dickkory. Just let them be amazing co-parents!!

Lian, Robert, and Mar'i supremacy!! (And Cerdian, Irey, and Jai down the line, obviously.) Nah but the Titans could've been so unique in the sense that they're all friends who consider each other family, and they all take care of each other's kids. Like Dick swinging by to pick up Lian from a doctor's appointment because he's available, or Roy taking Lian and Mar'i out for ice cream after school, or Kory taking Robert shopping for a new outfit for Donna's birthday party.

We could've had it all 😩.

[trexiejan]

What Batman thinks of Starfire.

Okay so I've seen many people curious about what Batman thinks of Starfire. I've seen a lot of people say Batman hates her and that he doesn't trust her cuz she's an alien and cuz he's a dickbabs shipper. I will explain why those statement aren't true. That's not who the original Batman is.

Let's go back to the original canon before all the stupid ooc retcons were created.

The first time Batman ever mentioned Starfire's name was in Tales of The Teen Titans #50 (1985) where Dick and Kory have already been dating for years.

and behold

- Bruce never referred to Kory as "the alien" he called her by her real name.

- He knows his son is in a real serious relationship with her.

- Bruce never made any bad comments about her nor did he show contempt for their relationship.

- He acted like a kind father who just wants to know how his son is doing with the woman he loves.

The 2nd time he mentioned her is in Swamp Thing #53 (1986) where he defended Human/Alien relationships like Dick and Kory's.

again he called her by her actual name and showed no issue towards Dick and Kory's relationship.

The 3rd time was in Funeral For a Friend (1993) where Bruce greeted her and Dick. He was happy to see both of them attending Superman's funeral. And for the 3rd time he called her by her actual name.

The Original Batman was a kind father who respected his son's alien girlfriend. Who wasn't spiteful and xenophobic towards Starfire and doesn't compare her to Barbara. and no, he wasn't a pro-dickbabs shipper. That ship didn't even exist before they retconned a lot of shit.

That everything changed after Dick and Kory got broken up. Reason for their break up? The Bat-editorial demanded they wanted Dick Grayson back to the Bat-office. The Titans Editorial had no choice but to pull him out of the Titans books and hand him back to the Bateditorial.

The Bat-editorial didn't like the idea of Dick dating someone outside the Batfamily like Kory so they couldn't continue their relationship in the Bat-books. It needed to end. The original wedding plan for Dick and Kory got cancelled. They don't like Dick and Kory? Okay fine, no one is forcing them to like them, whatever.

but no they couldn't just move on and leave Dick and Kory's past relationship alone.

They just had to say something negative about their relationship and put down their shared history, didn't they.

Why?

Is that really necessary?

Why can't they just respect the love that Dick and Kory had for each other when they were together and leave it at that ?

Cuz they did love and care for each other. It was a genuine love.

You can ship him with another woman without undermining and invalidating his history with Kory.

Like what did Kory ever do to them to make them hate her so much.

After they deaged Barbara to be the same age as Dick and pushed them together as the new pairing, they made a lot of comics degrading Kory, minimizing her interactions with Dick, and retconning her history and relationship with Dick into a one sided sexual fling.

and they turned Bruce against Kory too. This is where the idea of Bruce being a "anti-Starfire" and "pro dickbabs shipper" started.

They created this retcon in Gotham Knight #43 (2000) where Bruce acted xenopobhic towards her, making him refer to Kory as the alien and belittling her relationship with Dick, something he's never done before. Just to portray Barbara as his one true love. Bruce has never even talked about Dick and Barbara before and now suddenly he's shipping them. This retcon is not only an assasination of Kory and Bruce's character, it has also done a lot of damage to people's perception of Bruce and Kory's relationship.

All of this for the sake of propping up a retconned romance.

Not only is Bruce mischaracterized here, Babs is also acting so weird and ooc.

There was no reason for her to moon and whine over Dick like a lovesick girl from highschool.

She was a congresswoman when Dick was still in highschool. She called Dick "a child" and "little brother". She wasn't interested with him, he was too young for her 😭

Barbara already had a life of her own and own relationships, she dated Superman and got enganged to Jason Bard 😭

Dick had a precocious crush on her but he moved on from her when he moved out of Gotham. Even the original dickbabs writer said they were never meant to be together 😬

Barbara and Dick weren't pining over each other when Dick and Kory dated for years!

Dick never even once mentioned Barbara's name in the New Teen Titans books!

There was no reason for Babs to pursue Dick and vice versa, Both have already moved on to other people but stupid dickbabs retcons just had to exist 🙄

So yeah Bruce only hates Starfire when he's written by dickbabs writers and bateditors.

He was fine with her in canon before they pushed their dickbabs agenda.

Even in elseworld stories where it's not written by dickbabs writers.

Like in the animated show He supported Dick and Kory's relationship.

and in Kingdom Come he literally went to find the best doctors to help cure Kory's illness 😭

There's no logical reason for Batman to hate Starfire other than just to shit on Kory and prop up Dickbabs.

the whole "He doesn't like her cuz she's a dangerous alien" form of excuse is also BS

his bestfriend is literally Superman, an alien who is far more powerful than Starfire, he's also teammates with Martian Manhunter who is also an alien 😩

Overall yeah Fuck Dickbabs. It's the only ship that is good at character assasinating characters.

[zahri-melitor]

Thinking about the decisions made by Tim and by Dick at the end of Battle for the Cowl again, and I just realised this is one of the few moments when Dick and Tim’s instinctual reaction to a situation flips and they take the route the other usually chooses.

Because Dick’s maxim since 1980 or so has been that, when situations get bad, you can walk away and leave. Your problems can be left behind. People will cope without you. When things get personally stressful, Dick generally leaves. (Leaving Bruce to become Nightwing after the you’re fired/I quit conversation, walking away from the Titans after his relationship and wedding fell apart with Kory, going to Bludhaven to establish his own separate identity after reuniting with Bruce, wandering in a daze after Blockbuster dies and then running off to join the mob, the manner in which the Dick/Babs breakup(s) are structured, needing the World Trip Cruise after Bludhaven is bombed, etc)

While Tim’s choice in bad situations has generally been to cling, to stay and hold things (hold people) together, because if he doesn’t take on the role, who will. Tim worries that without someone stepping up, things will fall apart. (‘Batman needs a Robin’, staying during Knightfall and Knightquest, coming to No Man’s Land to pull the city back together, returning to Bruce even after his 16th Birthday, returning to Robin during War Games, even going to Bludhaven after War Games is holding Bludhaven together for Dick while he’s not able to do so, to go on the World Trip Cruise to keep an eye on Bruce and Dick, to try and clone people/resurrect people because he’s clinging to their memories).

But then we hit the start of Batman Reborn. And Dick makes the decision to stay, to hold Gotham together, to hold Damian together, a decision that usually you would see Tim make.

And Tim chooses to leave, to believe that Dick and Gotham can cope without him, while he prioritises something else (the search for Bruce).

As characters, Dick and Tim have been arguing over this point for 34 years now, and it’s fascinating to see that on one of the big occasions when the decision flipped, they both ended up on the opposite side to usual.

[spectr3inl0ve]

we cry together is so toxic relationship with dick grayson coded

ESPECIALLY VERSE 2!!!!! (I skipped some lines to fit the story and changed a few words to better fit dick's character </3) also this specific dick is gonna be known as "toxic relationship!dick grayson" (tags)

tw: arguments, toxic relationship, on again off again relationship vibes, allusions to dick cheating on reader with babs

It was inevitable that the two of you would get into another argument - about her. Barbara Gordon. The beautiful, fit, intelligent and witty daughter of the police commissioner James Gordon. Fuck, you were jealous of her. Of what she meant to Dick. You knew that they were a thing before the two of you got together, and yet almost every time he bailed on you it was to see Barbara.

"R/n I swear that there's nothing on between us. It's just work and friendship. I wouldn't do that to you." Dick tries to reason with you, albeit angrily.

"Oh really? Cus I know for a fact that you've cheated on someone with that redheaded hoe!" You hiss, your hands on the island bench as you stare into the guilty eyes of the man before you, your keys resting a few inches from you. He throws his hands up and shakes his head in disbelief. As if he didn't do exactly that to Kori.

"For God's sake, why are you making this so difficult? All we're doing is working. On. A. Case. What don't you understand about that?" Dick annunciate the last part in a slow, firm voice, reminiscent of the voice that one would use to talk to a misbehaving toddler.

"Nah, you're just a lil dick-ass slut that's tryna go big. Tryna make a name for yourself as Gotham's resident whore or what?" with a mirthless chuckle, you use your hands to gesture.

Dick's annoyingly perfect eyebrows furrow, and he smirks, "But you were suckin' this dick though.". This comment throws you off momentarily, but you quickly clap back.

"Well, shit, I shoulda sucked his." who's cock you were referring to? You don't know, and it didn't matter. What mattered right now was pissing Dick off to the point that he'd apologise and to promise to never see Barbara without anyone else present.

This wiped the smirk off of Dick's face immediately, the sudden change was hilarious. If you weren't so infuriated, you would've laughed in his stupid stunned face. "What? Fuckin' repeat what you said."

"I shoulda found a bigger dick." you make sure to punctuate each word with a crisp, satisfying clap, astounding your boyfriend even more. His expression quickly turns sour and bitter.

"What? You mad? Because you can go text that raggedy bitch and tell her you all that she got." You gloat, pointing at the phone in his left hand. With a huff, Dick quickly snatches up your car keys, moving towards the living room to inevitably get away from you. Fuck, you still need to get to work.

"Dick, give me my keys, Imma be late for work." with furrowed eyebrows you follow him, where he stops near the coffee table, arms crossed.

"Fuck your job, today's gonna be the day you walk to that bitch." he scowls, eyes narrowed as he glares at you, giving a quick glance at the clock. 7:58 AM.

You sigh inwardly, pinching your eyebrows, "I need to leave at 8, give me my keys, bro." and the devil that is Dick Grayson lets out a bark of laughter.

"On God, you aren't getting these keys." He raises the keys out of your reach when you make a grab for them, leaving you to accidentally swipe at his upper arm.

"Give me my fucking keys!" You yell, fruitlessly trying to reach for your keys again, to which Dick laughs at again.

"Ah, now you mad at me, I got you hollerin' for nothin'."

"I do the same when we fuckin'."

"Acting like that pussy ain't loose."

"I'd rather act like I'm cummin'."

"I'd rather fuck off that juice."

"I'd rather fuck on your brother."

Dick was about to retort back but he paused. Wait, what? "Bitch, you said you're gonna fuck who?" he hisses, an ugly frown adorning his face and his breath heavy. At this point his arms are folded again, your keys tucked into a large hand.

A bitter smirk on your face, you reply, "You heard me, bitch, it's nothing.". Your heart is racing, was that too far? Definitely, but if it makes him feel even a fraction of how you feel when he's with Babs, then it's worth it.

Dick carelessly chucks your car keys onto the coffee table behind him, stalking backing you into the couch as he stares you down. Fuck, you're in for it now. You're forced to sit, with how in your face he is and you cross your own arms. Two can play that game. You glower up at him, daring him to say or do something.

"That better be nothing. No one knows you better than I do. No one." he scowls, moving a hand to cup your cheek.

[dairy-farmer]

So like, Tim has definitely helped Jason by being arm candy to some Gotham underground event, right?

Like, gang leaders and crime lords would have to meet up sometimes to negotiate and prevent all out wars. Black market weapons deals, auctions, gambling dens. There’s places where the leaders of crime would meet and socialize. And you can’t not have a date to some of these. It’s a status thing, having a pretty young thing hanging off your arm.

And Jason’s a good guy and wouldn’t make one of his minions be subjected to all the objectifying talk that would no doubt be flying around. And he would not sexually harass his employees and his arm candy would have to be touched and kissed to make it look real.

Cass can’t do it- one, shes too scary and isn’t great at looking meek and harmless, and doesn’t like to lie. Jason and Cass both love it when he brings her places where he needs a scary hot bodyguard, cause someone always tries to fuck around, underestimating her, but playing arm candy? No.

Steph is out after the second time she broke character and broke a creep’s nose for talking about her chest. It was in metropolis, thankfully, so it was more funny than anything, but Jason can’t risk it at other events. He loves Steph, but that woman has no chill.

Dick can do it in a pinch- he’s not too bulky to be able to look harmless, but Jason doesn’t love doing it unless it’s an emergency. He knows that while Dick doesn’t mind people appreciating his body, some of the comments about Nightwing’s ass veer towards too objectifying for him sometimes.

Kori is too obviously alien and Roy doesn’t like being around drugs. Biz is out for obvious reasons, and Artemis is too intimidating. Damian’s a baby and like hell could Bruce be his arm candy. Ew.

Tim though.

Tim can do it. Tim is is good at it. He’s small and cute and fits perfectly under Jason’s arms or on his lap. He’s like a chameleon and can look like as many different people as he needs to. He’s freaky great at compartmentalizing and sliding into characters, so lewd comments and offers just slide off, or are met with a grin and a flirt. He’s observant and can watch Jason’s back, even when sitting on Hood’s lap with a hand running up and down his thighs.

Sometimes though, to avoid suspicion, things go a little far. More than once, Hood has had Tim panting and squirming on his lap, Hood idly fingering him while talking about a weapons deal or cocaine shipments. Tim’s been on his knees tucked tight between Hood’s legs, so they could get details about a human trafficking ring. He’s even been splayed out naked on a table, getting fucked in front of strangers.

Tim’s not usually as good at paying attention to his surroundings when those things happen, but that’s alright. Jason keeps them both safe.

Luckily, Hood has a reputation of being possessive of his things, and Tim’s various personas always count as Hood’s thing, so he doesn’t need to be shared.

If sometimes Jason gets a little…handsier with Tim than strictly required for that op without talking about it beforehand, well, that’s his business. And if Tim keeps agreeing to be Hood’s arm candy even though the last 10 events found Hood’s fingers, cock, or both, getting pressed inside Tim even though all he actually needed to do to blend in was to be there looking pretty, that’s his business too.

😍😍😍 this is so good!!!! the way that whenever jason needs a partner for crime lord meanings he doesn't even ask for volunteers anymore he straight up just goes to tim now because yeah they work well together but also because jason is crossing his fingers that he and tim will get to fuck again. sure the whole mission is nerve wracking because of the incredibly high stakes and risk of getting set up or shot at but also- jason might get his dick sucked or get to finger fuck tim's tight little cunt. and for one whole night he'll have a lap full of tim drake grinding and rubbing against him while kissing his neck- it's a pretty good trade off all things considered

[gothamite-rambler]

A Smoothie and a Second Chance

Context: I'm more a RobStar (Kori and Dick) shipper over Babs and Dick shipper. I write fanfiction and my ADHD brain thought about how Starfire's planet handled relationships differently than Earth and from what I read they have more poly/open relationships. With the best write it's described as that not that she's a person who is callous towards earth dating, it'd just that for her planet her style of dating is how majority of the Earth has monogamy as the usual dating style. I imagine Dick was shocked by this and because they were young they ended things sadly. That and other issues. Years passed and eventually Kori joined the Outlaws with Jason's team (not randomly sleeping around like that one comic) and Dick explored open relationships after being with Kori and wanting to learn more about it and while it's an adjustment, he gets it. They love each other and this is them meeting up again and rekindling the relationship, doing what makes them both happy and let the relationship flow better. This isn't them trying to save the relationship, this is two consenting adults doing something and know their love will always keep them together. This has taken numerous rewritings, deleting posts and three months lol. Sorry for this long context/author's note. Enjoy my silly ship Tumblr post that's connected my microfic lol.

Dick Grayson's Apartment - Mid-Afternoon

Dick Grayson, a.k.a. Nightwing, rolled out of bed, clearly exhausted from last night's patrol. He stayed dressed in his black and blue hero suit, his hair a shaggy mess around his head. He glanced at a clock, realizing he overslept.

Dick (mumbling to himself): I... need a smoothie. That should help. Can’t burn off these late-night snacks with just four hours of sleep.

He walked into the kitchen, preparing a mid-afternoon smoothie when he heard a sudden knock at the door. Without thinking, he opened it, still in his suit.

Koriand'r (beaming but then gasping, covering her mouth): You're still in the suit.

In a swift motion, Kori gently pushed him back inside and closed the door behind her. Dick looked down at his attire, bewildered.

Dick (smiling sheepishly): Huh, I am. That... has only happened a couple of times before.

Kori (raising an eyebrow): What did you do?

Dick: Well, I didn’t have my mask on. It turns out it’s surprisingly easy to convince the mailman that I'm really into cosplay.

Kori giggled, playfully patting him on the shoulder. Enjoying the moment, Dick pulled her into a quick hug, and her smile deepened.

Dick: I missed you.

Kori: I missed you too... a lot. But I wanted to talk about something important.

Dick led her over to the couch, keeping on his suit, and sat down beside her.

Dick: I can change later. How have your missions been with the Outlaws? What kind of criminals have you dealt with? Anyone cute?

Kori laughed softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.

Kori: You are too much. Joining the Outlaws is fun and thrilling. It’s an adjustment seeing Jason shoot people with a gun, but he’s getting better. Plus, he’s funny.

Dick (chuckling): He made a lot of dead people jokes?

Kori: Oh yeah, without a doubt! And when I wasn’t out with them, I was tanning, reading, hitting those dance halls with the loud music and flashing lights.

Dick: You sleep with any cute guys? Tell me I want to see if I can set up a second date.

Dick and Kori chuckled together, but as their laughter faded, Kori's typical bright smile took on a more wistful tone.

Kori: My romantic exploits? Honestly, boring. Some of my partners treated me like just another ‘prospect to screw,’ as Earthlings say. It was... stale.

Dick nodded understanding what she meant.

Dick: I can relate... sort of. I haven't done much serious dating, but some women seem overly focused on my butt. Sometimes I wish we could talk about something else or just not get random butt smacks.

Kori (laughing, resting her arms on the chair):

Right? And it really hurts when they pinch it!

Dick: Yes, like take me out to dinner first.

They share a laugh, the connection bringing a refreshing warmth. Kori then let out a contented sigh, her expression shifting to a more serious tone.

Kori: I really missed this— being with you. It might sound odd, but being away from you... especially after our breakup, made me realize how much I cherish our time together. You always knew how to take charge and have fun. I still... love that and you.

She hid her face in embarrassment as Dick’s eyes widened in surprise, but he didn’t feel upset; he understood her feelings all too well and missed being with Kori himself. Never in his wildest dreams did he think she would express the same sentiments.

Kori

Oh gosh, I'm sorry.

Dick (kindly): Why are you apologizing? I’m not upset.

Kori I’m relieved, but our relationship fell apart due to our lack of communication and my failure to explain how dating works on Tamaran and didn't take your concerns seriously and I hurt-

Dick (placing a hand on her arm): Kori, if you believe I thought you were cheating on me, that’s not how I saw it at all. It was just a lot to adjust to back then, but we’re adults now. Forget about the bodysuit I’m wearing; just imagine I'm in my pajamas.

Dick chuckled and playfully tugged at her arm, hoping to lighten the mood. Kori's hands dropped away from her face, and they locked eyes.

Dick: I promise you, if I ever felt any anger about our what happened with our past relationship, I don't feel that way anymore. I've always loved you too, Star.

Kori's expression lit up, and she scooted closer to him, bringing a smile to his face as he saw her cheerful demeanor return.

Kori: Okay... um, if we’re giving this another blast, how about a date... with me... at the Walmart?

**Dick cackle-laughed, holding his head down before looking up to reassure her gently.*

Dick: I’m sorry for laughing, but why Walmart?

Kori: They have that sandwich shop there, and Jason claimed it’s a romantic spot.

Dick lowered his head with a sigh, understanding that she was referring to the Subway inside Walmart that Jason had mentioned to her.

Dick (cheekily): He was messing with you, but I’d love to go on a date with you.

Kori: Oh, really? That's great! I'll take care of Jason later, but do you still want to go there or somewhere else?

Dick: What do you want to do? I feel like we can agree on something fun.

Kori tapped her chin, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes.

Kori: I remember when you took me to an arcade when we were teens. We had so much fun and won each other prizes. Want to go there? They also have great fries.

Dick: What time is it?

Kori: Three in the pm.

Dick: Right, I slept in late today. Sure, that sounds like a solid date. I just need to shower and change into regular clothes and then I'll be ready.

Kori: I can wait... I just want to be with you... again.

They share a meaningful glance before leaning in for a kiss. Their lips meet softly at first, a gentle testing of the waters. The kiss quickly deepened, ignited by the chemistry that had long simmered between them. Dick’s breath catches as Kori’s warmth envelops him, unleashing butterflies in his stomach as they discover a new language of passion. Each touch and caress speaks of longing and a bond that feels unbreakable.

As they slowly pull away, smiles light up their faces, both filled with joy. Dick's eyes sparkled as he looks at Kori, a soft chuckle escaping him.

Dick (jokingly): That usually happens after the date.

Kori (giggling): We’re different, aren’t we? But one thing...

Dick: Yeah?

Kori: How do we handle this? Earth, Tamaran, poly, mono, —

Dick (laughing): You meant monogamy, but I’m not concerned about who you’re with while on a mission or trip. That’s how you explained it works for you, and I get it. I know you're not vindictive, and I hope you won't worry about what I do. Even though I have a lot of love to give, I’ll always be here with you.

Kori: I feel the same way. I love you, Dick.

Dick: I love you too, Kori. You can breathe now; I can see you were stressed about this.

Kori’s shoulders dropped in relief, her head dropping with a heavy happy sigh.

Kori: You have no idea.

They share a warm, quiet moment together, knowing they are stepping forward into something new yet deeply familiar.

[002yb]

"It's too big."

The way Kory titters gives him butterflies even after all these years. From where she stands in front of him, Dick watches fondly as her shoulders tremble from her giggles, as she looks over her shoulder at him with an easy smile and bright eyes.

"I believe the saying goes, 'That's what she said,' yes?" Kory says, out-of-pocket. It makes Dick snicker, unabashed as he presses an adoring kiss to Kory's shoulder. She hums at the affection, sighing pleasantly. When she reaches behind her to drag her fingertips high up Dick's thigh, Dick jolts from surprise, barking out a short laugh when she teases, "I don't mind though."

Dick loves her.

"The corset." He says, disappointed if only because it's fun when Kory wants to dress up and even better when she wants Dick's help. With all the excess to the garment though, there's no way for Dick to lace her into it. Not in the way it was intended, at least. Not in the way Kory was hopeful for. She had been so excited about it, too.

He wonders if the shop Kory went to earlier that day is still open and if he ran like a fool, Dick could make it and charm his way into an exchange. He'd be willing to try, if nothing else.

"You're supposed to tighten it." Kory tells him, the cheeky minx.

With the same cheek, Dick tugs at the excess corset. Pulling Kory back into him with a surprised 'oh!' before she laughs and, 'oh,' indeed. Butterflies again - just like that.

She pulls at the corset, too, for the first time noticing that it's looser than all her others and likely not the same as what she'd meant to buy at the shops. A shame, but they can always have their fun without it, too—

"This must be Jason's." Kory explains, far too casual for such a bold, earth-shattering statement. Though she goes on to talk about how she must have grabbed the wrong bag when they were checking out, Dick's thoughts are still caught on: this must be Jason's.

Meaning... the corset Dick has in his hands - the one he'd been lacing up and cinching tight; all pretty boning and alluring mesh and delicate appliques actually belongs to... for Jason to... oh. Oh.

The visual is there before Dick can stop it and, try as he might, he can't make it go away. He stands there, stupefied and actually stupid, because oh. Oh, no. His thoughts race faster than he can keep up with, that image of Jason inappropriately at the forefront of it all.

He knew that Jason and Kory went out earlier. They go shopping together often. Is the lingerie shopping a part of their thing? Do they always buy the same pieces?

Oh, Dick thinks again, helpless as a flush warms his cheeks and stings his ears because the implications are damning: his girlfriend and his little wing have matching sets of lingerie.

Whoah. Wow.

Lost in his thoughts of being pressed between two corseted beauties with their bolstered racks, Dick is oblivious to how Kory turns to face him, her hand holding loosely to the ill-fitting bodice. It gives Dick a blessed view of her chest, but before it has a chance to distract him Kory is laughing at him, giggling with a fond endearment. Tickled, she calls him out, "You're fantasizing it!"

Dick startles to attention, wide eyed, overheated, and utterly exposed. "I'm not!" He sputters, but his voice cracks and Kory is delighted by it.

"I know this blush," She says as she pinches Dick's reddened ears, gaze softening as she looks him over - takes him in. She smiles warmly at him even as she teases him and makes him blush worse, "You are flustered. Imagine how I was feeling, to see him!"

"I'm really not," Dick insists half heartedly around embarrassed laughter.

"Lies, I see you." Kory laughs, too. Not so much embarrassed as she is zealous to be able to share this with him, now that she's found Dick out for the truly degenerate man he is, "Don't leave me alone with these feelings!"

Not for the first time that day, that evening, that very hour - Dick is taken by how truly beautiful Kory is. She stands in front of him, holding the too-loose corset up, and reenacting her afternoon spent out with one of her dear friends. Gesturing to her own chest, pressing her breasts together so that Dick can have a proper visual and understanding of just how bewitching Jason's cleavage is.

"I understand now why you always want to smother yourself in mine."

She's teasing him again, but alongside it is a cute comprehension. Dick laughs when Kory tells him her love for him is second to none, but his chest —and she feels him up then with her hand to his pec, pressing her fingers into muscle while hmm'ing and haa'ing— is too firm; it's not soft. The gesture she makes, the grabby hands, disarms Dick. It's too sweet, but Kory is as enthralled as Dick by the majesty of Jason's chest.

"Don't change this though," She warns Dick, tapping Dick's chest. Dragging her nail down his abdomen, finger catching at the waistline of his pants and smiling over how Dick shivers, melts.

Kory raises both her hands then, catching the corset awkwardly with her elbows. When she grazes her thumbs over Dick's cheeks, Dick raises his hand to hold her. Turns his head to kiss the heel of her palm and smiles soft when she flusters, too.

Dick loves her so much it takes his own breath away. He feels tongue tied. Bashful in a way he hasn't been since Kory and he were young. To love and be loved by someone so warm and wild and wonderful — Dick kisses her hand again, the tips of her fingers.

=====

@alexandraisapenguin — alpengu somehow, someway I lost your ask, but this is based off of what you sent me most recently! With Jason wearing something more fem + Dick and Kory and ahhhhhh somehow it became entirely dickory being cute and appreciating hot toddies, whoops. At the same time, I can't be sorry because they're so freaking cute?? ;U;

Here are some additional thoughts to bring it around to something that involves Jason a little more:

A no-cheating!AU where it's actually Kory that puts all the depraved thoughts of Jason in Dick’s head hahahahahaha. Because 1) Kory is interested and 2) it flusters Dick so easily and that's cute

Dick, taking the hint and having that conversation like:

'You want him to...' and Kory is like, no.

And Dick pales because while he'd suffer through it for Kory, Dick isn't the most keen on the alternative: 'oh, you want him...to me...?' and Kory laughs because again, no. The opposite!

Which, oh.

All in all Kory wants the both of them to fuck Jason and Dick just about passes out because oh my god

Just Dick, scandalized but also so completely understood by his partner hahaha

But yes, there being a joint effort to pursue Jason. And Kory already loves him, but Dick falls just as hard as he comes to really know his little wing and it's beautiful and ahhhhhhhh <3

Okay here's a dickjay bit since that was supposed to be the ask:

Something with Dick happening on Jason trying to tie his own corset. Maybe he seeks Jason out for intel or a mission or because there was another family falling out, but Jason isn't expecting him.

And Jason feels so humiliated and exposed because the delicate clothes are too big a vulnerability. Especially since they're 'ill fitting' and 'wrong' for someone like him

Cue some fights and scrapping because Jason lashes out in his embarrassment until Dick gets Jason pinned, front against a wall, and he pulls the corset tight and Jason just sort of ohs

Or! Dick gets Jason pinned with Jason's back to the wall, instead. And they're pressed close, chest to chest. And Dick gets distracted in an instant because Jason's heaving bosom ohhhhhhh hello

Regardless, Dick telling Jason, 'Let me.' and Jason relenting and it's just this quiet, intimate thing

And Dick marvels at all of Jason, fingers trailing along the cut of his waist

Ugh, Dick smiling that heart stopping smile and telling Jason that he looks really nice. And that soft/delicate/beautiful things suit him ;A; Which sort of devastates Jason in the softest of ways

And it's because the corset is too tight that he loses his breath, not because of Dick

Another potential scene, where Dick and Kory have successfully wooed Jason into their lives and while Kory is chill, Dick is very much not, never:

Dick is always nestled in Kory's chest. And constantly peeks at Jason to test the waters there. And Jason stubbornly crosses his arms over his chest because no, not a chance

Until one day (among way too many) Dick is again staring at Jason's toddies and Jason heaves the greatest of sighs before clicking his tongue and telling Dick to just do it - he's so damn embarrassing

And Dick dives right in, face first into Jason's chest before choking out the most sinful of sounds and Jason startles because omfg, stooooooop

Also, Dick and Kory taking one toddy each to rest on ahahaha. Meanwhile Jason stares deadpan into the void because what's happening? How did this become his life?

========

Thank you to anyone who has read this far! And to alpengu, thank you very much for the ask again (and tags on some of your reblogs - I see you lol). Quiet as I've been lately, I really do appreciate all the support from everyone. //U///

But yes, ngl I miss posting a lot too and hope to be able to write more again ahahaha. More often than not the thoughts are rough/disjointed, but I'm happy with how the drabble portion of this turned out!

[therobinswayne]

dick grayson sometimes feels crazy. because, like, to his whole family, he's a figurehead. he was the first robin, batman's first partner, and everyone knows it. he's got incredible skill, can read batman better than anyone, except maybe alfred, always knows the right thing to say to keep a fight from breaking out, amazing mediator. he's also incredibly goofy and silly, and he brings a level of whimsy into their lives that the crime-fighters might usually miss out on. he lives in bludhaven, but he still is seen patroling in gotham all the time and he's always there for his family. few remember a dick who wasn't so put-together.

but it took him so damn long to get there.

as a child, he was so very angry. he wanted revenge for his parents, and he fought like it. he fought dirty. it took years for batman to train him out of it, for him to feel like every villain wasn't zucco.

as a teenager, he was bitter. he resented bruce's attempts at parenting, he didn't want to forget his parents. he started the titans tohave a reason to get out of the manor, out of gotham. he led the team with an iron fist, since it was how the batman operation ran. it took becoming friends with the team to remind him that he was still a kid himself, that he was allowed to have fun.

he had relationsips with kori and barbara gordon, and both times he made an ass out himself by screwing them over. it took screwing up for him to figure out how to act right. he made his peace with both of them, and it taught him how to apologize and take responsibilty for his actions.

as a very young adult, he was resentful. he started nightwing to get away from bruce, felt like he was being smothered. he let the resent keep him from getting to know jason, never answered his calls, never stopped by to see him. he would only come when he absolutely had to, for a mission or an outbreak. he resented that bruce had let jason be robin, when that was his suit, the name his mother had called him as a child. it took losing jason to see what a fool he'd been.

with tim, he swore to be better. he hung out with him all the time, tried to really be a brother. he tried to be silly, so tim wouldn't forget to be a kid. it was hard, though. he saw jason, so young, bloodied, in the robin costume, whenever he closed his eyes.

joker put babs in a wheelchair. dick beat him to death. with his bare hands. it didn't make him feel any better. he got resuscitated, and then dick had to live knowing he killed a man without joker even staying dead.

when bruce died, and damian came along, and dick had no choice but to be batman for a while. tim was struggling with damian being robin, he took over wayne enterprises, and he left the manor. damian looked to dick for instruction. dick had no idea what to do.

he ran the titans, but that was different. they were under league supervision. this was the bats operation, and he was now batman. there was tim, damian, cassandra, steph, babs, alfred, and they were all looking to him.

he had no choice but to be a leader, a solid role model for them all. he made patrol routes and set up operations, missions, delegates and took extensive notes on everything. he couldn't even grieve for bruce, because there was just too much to do. there was no damn time.

when bruce came back from the past, or wherever the fuck he was, damian threw a fit about not liking the way bruce ran things. that he liked dick's operation better. he turned to look at dick, to ask him for help, because he was the batman to this kid's robin, except he's not, he couldn't do this forever, he could hardly do it for the six months he did.

he goes back to bludhaven. it takes a while for damian to trust him again.

when jason came back, dick had no idea what to do. the last impression of him that this kid had was a bratty teen brother who wanted nothing to do with him. he'd grown so much, but suddenly jason was red hood, pushed all the right buttons, and dick felt seventeen again, he and bruce were fighting so much.

by the time jason's anger settled and everything worked out, dick is in his mid twenties and he's this leader to his little siblings. he was their batman for a half a year, when bruce is unavailable, they look to dick for leadership, and he's the level-headed goofy support they need to keep their lives balanced against bruce.

few remember a dick who wasn't so put-together. but jason didn't see any of that growth.

one night, he walks in on jason earnestly trying to convince the other kids that dick's been replaced by an alien clone. they all think he's joking, since his reasons boil down to he's being a nice guy. when jason sees dick, he narrows his eyes at him like he's assessing an enemy.

dick laughs it off, tells jason he's had to grow up a lot since the old times. he stays the night at the manor. his room hasn't been changed since he first left for bludhaven. he can still see them all in the mirror. the kid who wanted to make every fight personal bc he didn't know how to grieve. the tween who ran away to the titans tower bc he didn't want bruce to parent him. the teenager who screwed up all his relationships bc he didn't know how to balance his emotions. the young adult who saw jason's open face, cautious and nervous but excited to have a family and turned away bc he was self-righteous. the sidekick robin, the overly showboaty early nightwing, the terrified of screwing up batman. and who was he now?

he had done a lot of work to be better for his family. it felt like everything he did was for other people. when bruce was having trouble communicating with the others, he would translate so the kids felt heard and bruce didn't scare them away. he spend half his time in gotham to make sure the team was working well, that everyone was safe.

he feels crazy. he doesn't know who he is, really. but he's sure he's screwing it up somehow. he always is. but he doesn't have time to worry about it now. he's got work in the morning.

he heads to bed.

[tenpintsofsundrop]

Missing You

Gar Logan x Fem!Reader x Jason Todd Smut Blurb

Concept: Gar misses his two best friends. When he calls the two of you, he certainly doesn't expect to find you in such a... compromising situation.

Word Count: 2,800

Titans Masterlist | AO3 Link

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Full list of warnings and author's notes below the cut.

Warnings: there is a lot of Gar/Jason (emotionally and sexually), dubious consent - Gar listens to the reader and Jason having sex without their consent (but they don’t mind when they do find out), invasion of privacy (but again, they don’t mind it), would this be considered eavesdropping?, accidental voyeurism (and then on purpose voyeurism), Gar masturbates while listening to Jason and the reader have sex over a FaceTime call but Jason and the reader don’t know Gar is listening, Gar feels slightly guilty about being horny in this situation, lots of dirty talk, Jason is more dominant, reader is definitely submissive, Gar is (slightly?) submissive (though he is not ‘involved’ for most of the sex act), the reader uses she/her pronouns and has a vagina (though she is not really the ‘center’ of this fic), Jason has a filthy mouth, p in v sex (between Jason and reader) - actually protected sex this time (which is a surprise for my fics) (it’s my headcanon that Jason is a big proponent for condoms/safe sex), degradation kink (towards the reader), terms used to describe the reader: slutty/slut, cocksleeve, hole, fucktoy/toy, cumdump, good girl; slightly possessive Jason (but it’s clear that he doesn’t mind sharing with Gar), spanking (very light, no severe pain kink) - mention of clit spanking, mention of orgasm restriction, mentions of sexting/sending nudes. I believe that’s everything.

A/N: This is a repost. I did some tweaking to it, but it is still mostly the same. So if you have read it before, I hope you enjoy it. And if it's your first time reading it, I hope you like it again. I have a half-finished sequel to this in my drafts, so if you wanna see it, definitely leave a comment or an anon telling me you wanna see it.

...

The concept of butt-dailing was something that still mystified Gar. 

He understood why it was a thing in the 2000s, sure. A time when people’s phones still had tactile buttons on them, when you could sit on your phone in your back pocket and start pressing things by accident. But these days? Why was the term even still used? 

How can you call someone by accident? How can you have an entire phone conversation with someone by mistake? 

On that day, it hadn’t been Jason that called him - no, Gar was the one calling Jason. 

Gar hated to admit it, but he was fucking lonely. He had a soft heart and if he went too long without talking to his friends, without hearing their laughter, then he wilted like an unwatered plant. It wasn’t something that he ever said aloud, but it was something that was very easy to tell for the people who were closest to him. 

So Jason had taken to calling him on a regular basis. And ironically, because of it, the two had actually grown a lot closer in the Robin’s absence. 

Their friendship bloomed because of the long, late-night phone calls where Jason’s tired voice mumbled things to Gar as he fell asleep, admitting things about his past and the pain he sometimes felt that he never would have told anyone else. And they often spent hours on Discord calls as they kicked ass together playing COD or some other stupid game like Mount Your Friends. Even though on that day the Tower was practically empty, Gar found himself missing Jason the most. 

Ever since you had gone to Gotham to visit Jason, Gar’s other closest friend abandoning him, Gar had practically gone mad with loneliness. Rachel was off on a ‘girls trip’ with Donna, Dawn, and Kory, and Dick was attending some kind of ‘League’ business. Hank was leading a ‘be a better you’ sobriety seminar in another city, and Gar still found himself feeling like an outsider when hanging out with Rose and Jericho. 

So where did that leave him? 

Alone in his room, sprawled out on his bed. 

He had thumbed over Jason’s contact in his phone several times before he actually decided to put in his earbuds and give the guy a call. Surely his best friend wouldn’t consider him needy after the three hour long timestamps on their other calls. If Jason was busy, Gar could simply find something else to entertain himself. He could probably best his Resident Evil speedruns. Again. 

But selfishly, he was hoping Jason would pick up and talk to him for a while. Maybe you would be lounging around with Jason and he would get to talk to the both of you. That would be really nice. 

When the FaceTime call was answered on the other end, the screen was dark. Gar thought for a moment that Jason was just busy - that he was pressing his phone to his chest until he could get into another room to take the call. But for a few moments, all he heard was deep breathing, some grunting. The sound of Jason training? 

He was definitely inside Jason’s pocket. 

See, Jason hadn’t even noticed the incoming call. He had his phone on silent, and he had answered it completely by mistake. Turns out, the rapid, rhythmic thrusting of his hips had somehow successfully pressed the ‘answer’ button, even with the phone shoved deep in his back pocket. 

And Jason wasn’t really in a position to have a friendly, ‘let’s chat about COD’ video chat with his best friend. 

He was balls-deep inside of you. With his thick, hard cock out through the zipper of his pants with his phone still inside of his back pocket. He was thrusting into you where you were face down on his bed, on your knees exactly how he wanted you. 

It was a huge part of the reason you had come to visit him. The two of you had been fooling around for as long as you had known each other, and you couldn’t seem to go for very long without fucking the other person. It brought you both relief from your stressful vigilante lifestyle, and it was the best sex either of you ever had. Not that any of your friends knew that you had a ‘thing’ going on, of course. 

Gar was about to hang up the call, believing that he had caught Jason at a bad time and realizing that the guy didn’t even know his phone was on. But he froze completely still when he heard it. 

“Fuck, babe, take my cock.” Jason groaned, his voice absolutely thick with sex. “Fucking take it.” 

It was something that instantly made Gar tremble, made blood rush to his cock as he heard his friend’s voice in a way that he never had before. The sound was rough in his headphones, distant and not nearly as pure as it would have been in person. But it made Gar’s blood run hot in seconds, made him so turned on so quickly that he became dizzy. 

Gar’s hand itched to reach down and grip his cock through his pants, but he knew that he shouldn’t. He knew it was wrong. He should just hang up the call and hope that Jason never saw it in his call history. The longer he stayed there and listened, the more suspicious the timestamp would look in the call history if Jason ever saw it. 

But Gar was frozen in his tracks when he heard something that absolutely made his head spin. 

“Yes!” It was your voice. “Fuck, I fucking love your cock. I’m just a slutty little cocksleeve for you, Jay!” 

High pitched and needy, moaning out - it was you. You, screaming those entirely pornographic words, followed by a deep grunt from Jason. 

Gar let out a sharp breath. It hadn’t occurred to him who Jason might be fucking. Or that he was fucking someone at all, and that he wasn’t just alone, fucking his own hand. 

Gar almost couldn’t believe that this was happening. The two people that he had been attracted to for so long now, playing out an epic sex fantasy for his own ears. He knew that it was so horribly wrong, but he probably wouldn’t have hung up the call if someone had pointed a gun to his head. 

“Yeah, you are.” Jason replied, his voice slightly obscured from the phone being in his pocket. “You’re my perfect slut. Such a good fucktoy, aren’t you, Y/N?” 

Jason saying your name with such a deep, possessive need, paired with the way he spoke so confidentially - it forced Gar to imagine how long the two of you had been in a relationship like this. How long the two of you had been playing around behind everyone’s backs to know each other’s kinks so well without crossing any boundaries. Even with his brain so lust-clouded, his thoughts flashed through all of the times you and Jason had snuck off together, or made lame excuses to go to bed early when Jason had still been living at the Tower. 

Gar was upset that he hadn’t found out about this sooner. His brain conjured up a fantasy of him sneaking into Jason’s room late at night, and seeing you on your knees for his best friend. He easily imagined Jason inviting him to stay, telling Gar what a slut you were, how much you would love to have two guys at once. Him and Jason passing you around, your wetness making both of their cocks shine. If you were the ‘fucktoy’ that he claimed you to be, it probably wouldn’t be that far from reality. 

There was a wet, slapping sound - Jason fucking into you harder as you moaned and struggled for breath. 

Gar’s cock pulsed with need. 

Something in the back of his brain screamed that it was wrong and that he needed to hang up, but his cock screamed louder. So he untied the string of his pants with haste and racked them down over his aching balls. Just to be safe, he muted his end of the call so that Jason wouldn’t hear any noises he made. 

(If he had been thinking a bit clearer, he would have realized that any noise he made, especially echoing into Jason’s back pocket, would have simply gotten lost in the haze of sweat and sex that the two of you were making in Jason’s bedroom. But - better safe than sorry, right?) 

In his mind, muting the call seemed even more reasonable when he let out a deep moan the second he took his hard dick into his hand. More beautiful sounds from you and Jason came in through his headphones as he began to jerk himself off. 

“Fucking love how you take my cock, fucking love how this slutty pussy gets so wet for me.”

Jason’s dirty mouth continued as Gar’s hand started a steady rhythm. Gar was already leaking precum that easily slicked him up - he was absolutely dizzy at the sound of Jason’s sex-graveled voice. 

“Just a fucking hole for me to cum in.” Jason growled. “You love it, don’t you? You love being my fucking toy. My fucking cumdump.” 

The pure filth coming out of Jason’s mouth surprised Gar, just as much as his own reaction did. The way his dick jumped in his hand and his lungs released a moan, his tip leaking even more precum at the words. He had no fucking idea that you and Jason were so dirty, that you liked being… degraded so much. Because clearly you loved it, with the wailing moan that you echoed back in response. 

“I love it!” You told Jason, your tone desperate and breathy, worn with sex. “I love being your cumdump. I’m just a hole for you to use!” 

Gar tried to imagine what the two of you might look like in that moment. Were you on your back, your legs spread wide for Jason? Were you completely naked with your tits swaying with his every thrust? Were you on your hands and knees, ass out like a bitch in heat for Jason? 

Gar pumped his cock faster at the thought, his precum making it sound absolutely slick, unrestrained grunts coming from his parted lips as he continued to listen you and Jason fuck. He would feel guilty for this later, but right now, he was absolutely dizzy with lust and needed to hear more. 

“You gonna cum on my cock, slut?” Jason’s voice was sharp, demanding. 

It sounded like Jason was holding back the urge to cum himself and he needed you to get there first. There was a sharp sound - skin hitting skin, higher in pitch and less muffled than the constant pounding of Jason into your cunt. Jason had spanked you. Gar’s orgasm swelled in his belly as he imagined Jason’s hand coming down against your skin, making the fat of your ass bounce or - fuck, Jason’s hand blooming against your wet clit. (Gar hated that he would never know which it actually was.) 

“Be a good girl. Cum for me.” Jason demanded, throat strangling his voice as he drowned in his own arousal. 

And just like that, you dissolved into a fury of sounds. Gar caught you chanting ‘I’m a hole! I’m a hole! I’m a hole!’ as though it was the only thing on your mind, increasing in volume as your orgasm overtook you, but it was muffled after a moment and Gar heard Jason grunt the words ‘shut up’ in the most sharp, dangerous voice he had ever heard from his best friend. 

Gar’s mind was immediately struck with the picture of Jason’s hand on the back of your head, shoving you into the bed to quiet your whorish moaning, and this was what sent him over the edge. His stomach curled so hard that it practically made him nauseous, his body drawing up off the bed as he pumped his cock hard and fast. He pumped himself dry as cum splashed up over his (thankfully) naked stomach and dirtied him in hot, white waves. 

Gar’s body was still trembling when he heard Jason rattle out a shuddering moan, a sure sign that he was cumming too. 

Gar should have rushed to end the call. 

But it seemed impossible to move at this point - his bones were practically made out of jelly from the intensity of his orgasm. The hand holding the phone had dropped it against his chest, the sound still coming in clear from his earbuds. He was desperate to catch his breath, and his cum still warm against his stomach when he heard it. 

There was a shifting, a rustling sound - fuck, Jason was taking his phone out of his pocket. 

Gar panicked. 

But his orgasm had been so spectacular that it had knocked all the sense out of him, including his usually good reflexes, so he was slow to pick his phone back up. When he did, his heart jumped in his chest when he found Jason staring at him, wearing a wide smirk. 

In the time it had taken Gar to recover, Jason had taken his phone out - with the original purpose to check the time. Alfred always had a very specific time for dinner, and always became cranky if anyone was late. Jason certainly didn’t need anyone to come looking for you and him, seeing the compromising position that you found yourselves in. 

Jason was surprised when he found the call with Gar going. And once he had checked the timestamp on the still ongoing call, he immediately knew what had happened. 

“Did you enjoy the show?” Jason said, his voice slightly rough from the sex, but entirely confident, unshaken. 

“Uh - I - I -” Gar stuttered. 

When Jason saw his lips moving and didn’t hear any sound, he quickly spoke up. 

“Unmute the call, dickhead.” Jason told him, giving a small chuckle with the offensive, affectionate nickname. 

Right. Gar had muted it to participate in his perverted voyeurism. 

As Gar reached up to find the button, he realized his hand was still covered in cum. 

Jason licked his lips as he saw substance smeared all over Gar’s palm and saw his friend reaching for tissues off to the side. As Gar raced to clean off his hand, you appeared behind Jason’s shoulder in the frame of the call. You were wearing a bra, your skin slightly slicked with sweat and tear tracks coming off the side of your eyes - clearly from pleasure and not from pain. 

“You had Gar on a FaceTime call?” Your tone was a breathy giggle, clearly not at all upset at the idea that your friend had been listening in on you being fucked and called degrading names. “Kinky. Did you call him while you were putting the condom on?” 

Gar unmuted the call with his now clean(er) hand, but waited in silence for you and Jason to finish your conversation. He was surprised that you didn’t seem to care; that you seemed to think it was some kind of pre-planned kink that Jason had executed. Gar’s stomach twisted at the thought of it, that you and Jason had discussed inviting another person into your sex life and you were more than okay with it being Gar. 

“Don’t worry your pretty little head about it.” Jason told you. “Go get cleaned up for dinner.” 

You simply nodded, and leaned in to give Jason a kiss - a soft, gentle sight that was entirely arousing in contrast to the rough, filthy sex that Gar knew the two of you just had. It was even more arousing when you walked out of frame and Gar heard another spank to your bare skin (clearly you weren’t wearing bottoms) - and heard you let out a delighted squeak in response. 

“Look, I can explain-” Gar began his groveling, but Jason quickly cut him off. 

“Quiet.” Jason said, his tone taking on a kind of authority that made Gar’s stomach jump. “Next time this happens, we get to watch you cum, or you don’t get to cum at all. Got it?” 

Gar’s cock was quickly filling with blood again at Jason speaking to him this way, so boldly, making sexual demands over his body. His mouth was dry and lost for words so he simply nodded in response. He opened his mouth to attempt to speak - to apologize, to ask for clarity, to ask Jason when ‘the next time’ would be. 

But now that Jason had Gar’s simple affirmation, he hung up the call. 

Gar - unable to help himself - stretched an arm out and took a picture of his half hard cock and his shirtless body, still covered in his cum. He hesitated to send it, though. After a long mental debate in the shower, it came back to his phone sitting on his nightstand, and sent it to Jason with a caption that read ‘I really did enjoy the show’. 

It pinged Jason’s phone when he was sitting at the dinner table with you and Bruce. And as he looked at it under the table, he choked on his peas.

[vechter]

For the director's cut ask game, what was Roy thinking when Dick kissed him?

ooh, okay, so when i first wrote that scene, i was a little doubtful about it (still am tbh) because i didn't want it to come across as out of character; there's an element of my personal headcanoning for dickroy that went into that scene.

in the past, both of them have had moments where they've felt that the other person is in love with them but they've never really had the opportunity to act on any of it. there's a fair bit of insecurity about their places in each other's lives and they're both prone to underselling their own importance to each other.

we already see roy doubting dick in chapter one— roy knows dick's hiding something and even though he doesn't know what exactly, he knows that once all these clues add up, he won't like the bigger picture. he already doesn't!! and even though dick is a wildly unreliable narrator, he hits the nail right on the head at roy's apartment when he clocks roy analyzing him; he recognizes that roy knows something is stopping him from being nightwing again— which is perhaps the truest extension of dick grayson, a fact they're both keenly aware of.

roy's life trajectory at this point: he lost his daughter and he lost his arm. and although he got lian back, there were months where he assumed lian was dead and was lost in that grief. now that he's at a place where he's somewhat made peace with the events of cry for justice, he'll no longer deny himself what he wants or engage in self-destructive behaviour like he used to/has done in the past.

you see dick mentioning how effortlessly roy is connected to the community around him, how sure roy's sense of self is through dick's eyes and i think there's a part of roy that recognizes dick's admiration and envy over it. plus, that time dick and kory almost got married is usually in the back of his head— how he and the other titans knew that it was a hasty step— a very bullheaded move from dick to bandage the deeper wounds of mirage/anti-alien sentiment/kory's own struggles with dick's acceptance of her. so he's very much aware of how dick swings wildly between overcorrecting or running. and he doesn't want to be that for dick.

it's why he kisses him back, because he wants dick to know that yes, the love is there and it's waiting for him, but both he and dick deserve better than this. he doesn't want to be dick's only tether to reality/his sense of self. which is why he establishes that boundary. he tells dick to get his shit together and implies the most important thing in that interaction— that they're both too grown to do this half-hearted dance they've been doing for a decade. they've been in each other's corner since they were kids and the only way that it can really work between them without ending badly or hurting each other: they need to be sure of who they are outside of each other, outside of the shadows and absences of their mentors/father-figures.

love is a choice and roy is willing to make that choice but he needs dick to be in a place where he can make that choice freely, not when he's trying to run from what he's lost.

come ask me for a director’s cut on my fics!

[silverwhittlingknife]

did nobody ask you for red letter day? absurd! *I* wanna know about red letter day!

hello captain and friend anon!!! I KNOW I HAVEN'T UPDATED THIS IN SIX MILLION YEARS SO THANK YOU FOR THESE ASKS <333

okay SO the first thing is, you have to understand, my list of documents for this fic looks like this:

anyway i do love this fic even though it FIGHTS ME; it's supposed to have both Fights and Mysteries and both are hard to write 😅

anyway hmmm i'm going to cheat by including a Dick POV section that I am probably gonna end up cutting, because i like it but i also worry that it slows down the dialogue?

excerpt below the cut! the only context that you need is that Dick and Tim have been having the "should Tim call if there's danger in Gotham" argument again (Tim's position is "no"), partly because they both have genuine positions on this argument, but also because it enables them to sublimate an emotional conflict into a work conflict and thus avoid talking or thinking about their feelings, which is a shared pathology goal:

Dick would bet Tim never mouthed off to Bruce like this.  One of the many things that suck about being the knock-off Batman is that none of Dick’s orders really stick.  All of the responsibility without the authority to back it up.  At least when Dick was leading the Titans, they did what he freaking told them. …Mostly. …Okay, sometimes. The awful truth is—and he tries not to dwell on it because it’s pointless and doesn’t achieve anything, but—everything with Tim, sometimes it reminds him of the worst times with the Titans.  The same uneasy feeling of dread, like he’s grabbing for someone who’s slipping through his fingers.  Roy’s crossed arms.  The clock creeping toward midnight, staring at the champagne, knowing in his heart that Kory wasn’t coming.  After Tartarus: watching Roy walk out of the room, watching Donna follow him, staring at Vic’s back, Kory’s back, all of them walking out, and no one left but the newcomers.  When the personal is so fucked up that all you can do is double-down on the professional, and even that doesn’t help, and then— (Get a grip, Grayson.) And anyway, this isn’t like the Titans, is it?  Dick was out-of-line, there, in retrospect. He’s never been good at losing people gracefully.  Pushing Kory for marriage when she was already pulling away, trying to cling to her instead of letting her go.  Giving ultimatums after Tartarus, when he knew the team already resented his orders.  Making decisions behind Vic’s back, trying to force him to stay.  It’s an ugly bad habit, picked up from Bruce: things are slipping, and your people are mad at you, so you get scared, and then you get authoritative and controlling so you can hang onto them, except you can’t control them, so then they get even angrier and you lose them anyway.   It’s easy to see in Bruce, hard to see in himself, but he knows it’s there.  He barely managed to catch himself in time, with the Titans.   Is he doing the same thing to Tim?  Does he need to back off? But Gotham is risky.  Tim’s always been capable, obviously, but…it’s okay to be a bit authoritative, isn’t it?  Tim should call if there’s someone who looks unusually dangerous.  That’s just common sense.  Dick’s not asking for miracles, here.

[tenpintsof-sundrop]

Please say more about Titans’ costumes 🥺

(if you want to)

I literally always want to talk about Titans. Always

There is so much I could say about the costuming alone omg

One thing I absolutely fucking love about the show - specifically about S1 and S2 (and kind of into S3?) - is that each character really has their own distinct style. Each character is so, so well defined by their visual style and it helps add so much to their characterization just by looking at their clothing.

Even side characters like Hank and Dawn (and fuck, I love Hank and Dawn so much) - Dawn's clothing has so much feminine elegance.

I fucking love that Dawn is a character who absolutely reeks femininity without going down the route of styling her in the typical feminine way - and I am not at all bashing traditional femininity when I say this, I just fucking love how Dawn is an example of how femininity can be so obvious without having to use girly pinkness and bows and skirts. She is so clearly meant to be a hyper feminine girly character who loves her femininity, especially with the styling of the apartment that she shares with Hank, but her clothing really drives it home. Even before it's revealed that she was a feminine, light, ballet dancer, you can see it in what she wears - a flawless light blouse, clothes that are so perfectly tailored, light fabrics, everything so well fitted. Wearing heels that are of practical lengths but still making it a point to be flattering and elevated, wearing done-up hairstyles and having her hair brushed over one shoulder in a very princess way.

And I love how all of her clothing falls under the light grey/taupe/steel grey/steel blue palette of the Dove costume and they don't stray from that with her. The only time they do is when they are hinting at her wearing Hank's clothing - like when she wears the heavily oversized black and red letter jacket in 2x02 (that I think Hank was wearing in his college flashback? I think that jacket was literally his college football jacket if my memory serves me correctly)

Speaking of Hank - again, I love how he has his own colour pallet. They often stick to the brick reds, the warmer tones with him - they make his colours very warm and inviting even if his personality isn't always the most warm. But what I fucking love about his clothing is that right from his introduction - his clothing feels grounded. His clothing always feels very working class. He is almost always seen wearing jeans and some kind of flannel, the timerland 'worker' boots, a heavier practical jacket.

I fucking love how he and Dick contrast the two ends of men's low effort, 'casual' clothing. Dick is also seen wearing jeans throughout the show, but Dick's clothing is not at all working class or approachable - even if it's just small touches, like the expensive watch that he's almost always wearing, Dick's clothing is expensive. His jacket's are more tailored (and clearly made out of more expensive materials), he wears button up shirts that are made out of more expensive cotton - and rather than being casual flannels, he wears darker, more serious colours - his shoes are often more expensive and clearly not mean to be 'worked' in.

You can look at Dick and Hank and immediately recognise the wealth gap - the fact that Dick is comfortable with wealth, and Hank is comfortable with the working class and grew up in poverty.

Going back to the colour thing - something I LOOOOOOVE about S1 specifically is the fact that you can clearly see them borrowing each other's clothes. You can see the abrupt disruption in Rachel's black uniform because of the introduction of Dawn's soft grey sweater. Gar's lighter colours are broken up by the introduction of Dick's uniform-like militant grey. Toward the end of the season, Kory's colourful bright wardrobe is broken up by her borrowing Donna's effective purposeful black catsuit - and again, this goes back to my theory about Kory regain her memories but losing her identity, and how she leaned on Donna a lot during this time, and her wearing Donna's clothing immediately after entering this identity crisis to me feels like her using Donna as a safety net when she was in emotional turmoil.

Speaking of Dick's militant colours - in S1, DICK HAS AN OBSESSION WITH UNIFORMS. I was going to make a separate post about this but I accidentally deleted the draft lmao. He goes from wearing his detective uniform to wearing an outfit that is almost military-esque (the grey henley style shirt and the cargo pants) - an outfit that is clearly meant to be practical rather than express any personal style, but it inadvertently expresses a heap of emotions from him: he feels like he does not have an identity outside of who he was with Bruce.

When he talks about his time with Bruce to Kory, Gar, and Rachel - he calls it 'military training'. And it's clear that's what he thinks of it now - not a family, not a father figure - he thinks that he was being trained as a weapon, and now that his training is over, he doesn't know what to do with himself. So he puts on his uniform to go into work and be a detective, and when he's not doing that, he wears a uniform because he doesn't have a sense of self otherwise.

BUT in S2, when he feels more comfortable returning home to Bruce (after he's confronted his demons through the Trigon hallucinations), he is wearing a very nice outfit that is more representative of wealth. Likely something that Bruce would have dressed him in - and this is the kind of clothing we see him wearing for the rest of the show that seems a lot more indicative of his personal style through the rest of the show. As if he was previously afraid to gravitate toward this kind of style because he was afraid that he was becoming too much like Bruce, he was enjoying the wealth too much - that Bruce was never a true father to him because he 'paid' for Dick's affection (as we see in the flashback with the closet full of expensive clothing that is waiting for Dick when he arrives).

It's a very interesting thing to breakdown.

Anyway, that's all my brain has for now lmao. But I always loooooove talking about Titans and analysing it. Not just the costumes but any aspect of the whole show. This show is like - my house

[luvly-writer]

"But Oh..Cara mia"

Ch. 15 Repercussions are always messy

————————————

Dick Grayson x Latina! Reader

Warning: None

Author's note: I finally found some time and inspiration to write! YAY! You wouldn't believe how crazy the last few weeks have been. First, university has been absolutely insane causing my health to decrease a little, then, it's the birthday months in my family meaning that almost every weekend we had something, and finally, I got a new phone. I had my old phone ever since 2020 and it had been malfunctioning ever since January. Unfortunately, many of my notes were lost due to me forgetting to backup them, and within those notes, I had the sketch for this ENTIRE story. So cue all the time I spent crying cause I lost SO MANY of my notes, from my TBR to my fic drafts. But worry not! I am time to reread the story so that I can get inspiration and remember how it was going to be carried out. LOTS OF LOVE.

Taglist: @lorosette @nanas-teatime @prettyacademia00 @mxtokko @sarahkaliii @w31rdg1rl @eurydicegrimes @writing-for-the-hell-of-it @alecmores @dakotali @sadraven1992

Series Masterlist:

—————————————

You ran and ran and ran. Up the stairs, taking the elevator would give you way too much time to stress over the situation. You ran with Babs hand in yours, pulling her with you. You could hear her complaining because of her running in heels and that you were going too fast but those were being unheard of. You needed to get to your room before you'd burst. Finally, after it felt like forever you got to your room. You pulled Babs in and closed the door, locking it. You both inhaled and exhaled softly, a little out of breath. "Yn, I love you. You know I do, but fuck you for making me run all the way to here." Babara panted out successfully snapping you of the trance you were in. You had been staring holes at the door. She walked up towards you and pulls you back, "Hey hey, the door won't harm you, stop looking at it as if it will" she said softly and pulls you so that you are both sitting on your bed. You breathe softly and finally look at Barbara who is looking at you with so much intrigue. "Barbara.." you start slowly and Babs nods, eager to know what you'll say, "You will not believe what the fuck happened on that dance floor" you finish and Barbara squeals and laughs making you laugh as well.

--<3---

On the other side of the manor, Dick was desperately looking for Kory. He had run away from the ballroom straight to the gardens. "KORY!" He shouted as he searched for the girl around the gardens. Just as he was about to shout for her again, he finds her sitting in a bench in front of one of the Wayne manor ponds, staring at the fish in the water.

"Kor-"

"So," she says without looking at him, "finally done eye fucking Yn are you?" she finishes. Dick flinches slightly, not used to receiving such harshness from her. He slowly walks up to her, "I wasn-" he begins but is once interrupted by her, "Of course, you were, Richard!" She bites back standing up to look at him dead in the eye. Frankly, he is currently terrified of the girl in front of him. "Honestly, when are you going to stop lying to me! I am not stupid and I am quite sick of you believing I am." Kory crosses her arms and Dick finally answers, "It is a publicity stunt, Kory" and she huffs. "Oh yes, I am sure! That's what you always say but it's a fucking lie". Dick can feel his anger rising, "I am not lying Kory, you know that Bruce pulls this shit every time something goes wrong in a gala whenever Yn and I are there. The socialites-"

"The socialites can go fuck themselves, Richard! I may not be from Earth but I have been here long enough to know that for something to be a publicity stunt, it doesn't need the amount of intimacy you were both exhibiting! When will you come to terms with the fact that she loves you and that you-" screams Kory yet chokes up in the end, not wanting to finish her sentence. Finishing it would confirm the very same thing she has been trying to avoid, say delay, all this time. "That I might what Kory? Love her? You know that's a lie. I love you" Dick says and Kory rolls her eyes in frustration. "But you are noT IN LOVE WITH ME RICHARD!" She lets out. "You haven't been in a long time" and Dick just looks at her.

"Kory, what non-"

"But it isn't nonsense! It's true! She knows you better than anyone else, better than me! You both share this strange fucking sense of intimacy-"

"No we don't"

"Yes, you do Richard. I don't know anything about you any more than she does. For fuck's sake, I had to call you under the premise of training the Titans in order to actually hear from you. Something happens to you and you go running to her. Your face lights up whenever you see her and you search for her in every room! I tried to get in the way and make you see only me, Richard, I really did, but she shines so bright that you can't see anyone but her whenever she is present. What is the point of fighting it anymore?" Kory says defeatedly. Dick reaches out for her but she steps back, "Kore, don't...don't say that" he says as his eyes begin to tear up.

"Richard, but I have to. You haven't been mine for a long while now and I thought coming to Gotham with you might've changed that but it didn't. It just made it ten times clear who you belong with and surprise! It isn't me! I have tried everything! From sex to calls and excessive PDA, to trying to limit your contact with her and trying to make you leave, and even trying to make you cut ties with her, and wanna know something? NOTHING WORKED! It isn't healthy anymore! I am desperately trying to keep something that isn't mine and never will be! I am trying to save something that's already ruined!" Kory yells and both can feel the tears run down their cheeks. Dick walks up to her and holds eye contact, "I love you, Kory, you know this, you must, you have to..." he whispers and Kory smiles bitterly at him, "I know, Robin, and I love you but you don't love me in the way I want to be loved" she answers and Dick looks down in shame. "I am sorry," he tells the girl and she smiles at him, "I am sorry. I am so so sorry, Kory" he keeps on whispering and she pulls him for a hug. No matter what anyone else says, Richard Grayson has the biggest heart of all and even in the moments where she is breaking a big part of his heart, he still doesn't have it in him to hate her and shove harsh words her way. "I know, Dick, I know. Part of loving you is letting you go so that you can truly be happy," She pulls him back to look him in the eyes, "We are over, Richard. Our time has finally come to an end" she says softly and Dick nods.

"We had a good run, Richard, we really did." She says as both laugh, still teary-eyed.

"We are no longer two dumb teenagers in love" he says and she nods laughing, "Please, Kory, know that my intention was never to hurt you, you kno-" Dick starts but Kory cuts him off with a laugh.

"Oh I know, Dick, I know, I think one of the last people to know that you're in love is you," Dick goes to open up his mouth in denial but Kory shushes him with a glare, "Richard Grayson you better not try to deny it! Do yourself a favor and accept it" Kory says and Dick has the decency to look bashful.

"It's not that, Kory, it's just, I mean, me and her, I mean she and well, we aren't exactly on good terms or have ever been exactly on the best but no well yeah but-" he is cut off by Kory's laughter.

"My, is this real? Is the suave Richard Grayson finally made a mess by a girl? What a sight!" she says and Dick glares at her. "It's complicated!" he huffs rolling his eyes and she just laughs out, "Isn't it always?"

They both decide to sit down on the grass and stair at the water. They stay in silence for a while. It is broken by Kory who looks at him curiously, "Since when?" she asks and Dick looks at her confused.

"Since when have you known that you know, you love her?" she asks and he just shrugs.

"I don't know actually, one day the hate turned into something else and I was too much of a coward to acknowledge it." He says picking on the grass.

"So you ran back to familiar?" she says and he nods a little distracted, she hums in understanding. "You are an idiot, Dick" she says making the boy nod and laugh with her. "Don't get me wrong, that wasn't the entire reason, I do love you, Kory" he says and she nods once again. She needed to clear the air before finally leaving.

"You know, it kinda makes me feel a little better that you were a little conscious of your feelings for her but pushed them down because of how much you love me" she says and he gives her a tight smile.

"What now?" he asks, scared of what the answer might be.

"Well, I am going back to the Titans tower and probably taking a well-deserved nap. You should probably go find her" she answers and Dick laughs, "No, what about us now?" he asks once again and Kory looks at him, understanding his questing. "OH! Well, you can always come to help co-lead the Titans, they are a handful as they are, so help is always appreciated. As for us us? I think we can be friends" she offers and Dick smiles and nods, "Yeah, I'd like that" making Kory smile, "But not now, I need some time, plus, I think you have a certain someone that requires your full attention" she insists and Dick lays back and looks up, "Oh her....I am fucked" he says making Kory laugh. "Why?!" she says and Dick looks at her incredulously, "Have you met her?!?! This is the one person that has never allowed me to charm my way out and is the first to call me on my bullshit. I may be absolutely earth-shattering in love with her but she will rain a shitstorm on my ass!" he exclaims making Kory wheeze, "You said it! You love her!" she yells and Dick still looks desperate to get his point across. "Yeah, but she will kick my ass" which creates another round of laughter from Kory. "Why? She got you?" she asks, genuinely confused.

"Like I said, she will absolutely call me on my bullshit and scold me for hurting you. She's a girl's girl according to Barbara and Stephanie so putting you in between will definitely be on her list of reasons why Dick Grayson is an asshole and no one can convince me otherwise," he says mocking her voice and making Kory laugh again before he continues, "Plus, she will wholeheartedly fight me on how horrible I've been with her, aside from calling me a coward for denying it for so long, Kory I have more chances entering a cage fight with a tiger and a grizzly bear and winning than the hell she will put me through, which I deserve cause she deserves so much better than me, because of all these years. She will look at me and say 'i hAvE sTanDarS' which good for her, but not really good for me cause I will have to bust my ass to become the man she deserves" Dick finishes his rant and Kory stops laughing to look at him.

"You really are in love," she observes and Dick flushes, making Kory smile. "I think this will be good for you, Richard," she says as she stands up. He gapes at her and she shakes her head with a smile, "She has always pushed you to grow and be better. And now it seems she will do so once again" she tells him, making Dick stand up. She kisses his cheek and starts to leave, waving back at him. Dick waves back as he thinks over her last few words. Yn has always been the force to challenge him, make him push past his limits, and become better. Although the majority of the time, it had been through fights and constant clashing, she always helped him get better. As he starts to walk back to the manor, he feels a gush of wind in his side. He looks and lo and behold, Wally West is looking at him with a big smile. "Sooooo, I take it that went well" he grins at Dick throwing his arm around him.

As he explains what happened with Kory, Wally nods. "Wow, this is the first time I have ever EVER seen you handle things like an adult" he quips making Dick shove his arm off as he laughs.

"Hey!" Dick exclaims to which Wally answers, "You know its true!"

They both walk back to the ballroom., "So what now with Yn?" Wally asks carefully before they enter. Remembering how cozy the two were before the dance, Dick pulls Wally by the ear and slightly threatens, "Seeing as now I have to bust my ass to win her over, do NOT make it harder by flirting with her. Keep your hands and words away from Yn, I will break your legs" To which Wally snickers like a little shit. "Hey, it did the job of getting you to do something so fuck off," he says as he pulls his ear from Dick's grasp. The two enter the ballroom and laugh falling back into the boyish banter they were always used to. Dick can feel the questioning gazes of his family and decides to avoid them because in all seriousness, he had no clue how he can even begin explaining this.

--<3--

"SHUT UP!" screams Barbara as Yn finally finishes her story, nodding excitedly. Barbara's mouth is wide open as she processes what just happened, making Yn laugh. "I know! I don't even know how I am breathing! It was so intense and genuinely, a little hot too and it felt sooooooo right but soooo wrong at the same time you know!?" YN exclaims as Barbara nods, "Yeah cause Kory was there and oh my, they are definitely breaking up! Shit, Yn! This is messy!" she says and Yn nods with wide eyes. "I know! And honestly, I feel so conflicted! Because A) I don't like that a thrid party got hurt-"

"Even if she was a huge bitch to you?"

"Even if she was a huge bitch to me. And B) Barbara it felt so good, like I wanna scream into my pillow all night kind of good!" Yn finishes and Barbara laughs at her expression, "Bitch I sure hope it feels good, it isn't every day that someone tells you that they are afraid of who they will become if you are gone AND tells you to ask anything and it is yours, you know, especially FROM DICK GRAYSON" says Barbara, "The same Dick Grayson, whose middle name is casanova with commitment issues" she finished making Yn burst out laughing. Finally, they calm down and stay silent as they process everything. They were still in their outfits, with the exception of their heels as they both lay on the floor of YN's bedroom.

"You know, don't feel so bad about the Dick and Kory thing. I think everyone has been seeing that they were going to fall out at any given moment in the last few years. So I don't really think it was ALL your fault. You being included was more of a last straw kinda thing" says Barbara trying to reassure Yn, who in return looks at her and asks, "You think so?" Barbara nods and Yn stays silent for a moment. "But if they broke up, I am NOT being a rebound. Dick has to prove that this time it is legit! Cause I am not going back to the same hot and cold as always. I can't, Barbara, I cannot! I deserve better and I don't want a few months of love and then for him to turn back into the asshole that he is always with me. I am not going to be the second choice cause his first left. If Dick wants me, he has to earn me" she says confidently and Barbara beams at her. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you." She says and they both laugh. They begin to put on their shoes after finally feeling like they should go back to the ball. They fixed themselves up and walked back. Barbara kept teasing Yn over her situation with Dick and Yn, although she was heavily blushing, she laughed with her friend. As they entered, YN went directly towards Diana with a huge smile, they agreed that Yn would spend the next weekend in New York with her so that she could tell her all about what happened in more privacy.

As she walked back to where Barbara, Cass, and Stephanie were, Yn made brief eye contact with Dick. She felt her heart skip a beat. Dick smiled at her and waved. Yn nodded in acknowledgment and waved back. The night carried on without any other mishaps. Even though, everyone was dying to know what happened between them, they would have to wait until their next Diyn (ship name) meeting to know what happened so they let it slide for tonight and just enjoyed the gala.

That night, as Yn was heading for bed her phone dings. She opens it only to find:

Mi Picaflor <3:

The offer still stands. Ask for anything and it is yours. Goodnight, gorgeous.

--<3--

"Right now, I'm shameless

Screaming my lungs out for ya, not afraid to face it

I need you more than I want to, need you more than I want to"

[celaenaeiln]

(different anon) i appreciate u mentioning the context from our world aka the editorial’s decision behind dick going to college thing. like, regardless of the, whats the word, questionable?? handling of bruce & dick character in old or golden/silver/bronze comics, the fact remains that 1) the dick going to college stuff was caused by homophobic panic -> led to decisions (which i wont list one by one and it can be easily browsed on the internet) and 2) that the handling affected people’s perception of the characters, which circled back again to number 1 aka it affected the editorials’ decisions

YES!!!! You're so right!

The worst part is I loved Dick and Bruce's relationship in the medal ages. The way they interacted was so natural and fluid and it may have seemed weird but honestly it was just sweet and endearing!

When they redid everything, they couldn't properly distance the two of them because they were so intertwined. And since Dick obviously wouldn't be an asshole (since it goes against his whole persona), it had to be Bruce who initially started off as a lone avenger. This was also easier to do because Bruce was constantly worried Dick was too young in the comics so the editors played it up and started having Bruce act arrogant to Dick which made it a part of his personality. This is the Bruce we know now-an angry, controlling asshole who only expresses that he loves his children when he thinks they're dead.

They messed up so badly that writers are STILL trying to figure out how to write Dick. Most of them got it right. Some of them should find a new career.

I miss what they used to be written as and I miss when Bruce openly showed emotion. Even Alfred wasn't just a stoic butler.

The fan reaction and editorial response led to a horrible rabbit hole which leads to now where DC is frantically retconning everything to make Bruce not seem terrible.

Additionally, I know we're talking about Dick and Bruce but this also is the exact same situation that led to the split of Kory and Dick. Kory and Dick actually used to be almost the number one comic book pairing in the late 20th century. They were so popular that in the 1990s, they were considered the Peter/Mary Jane of DC. Their relationship was the epitome of grand, sweeping romances equivalent to dramatic balcony love stories and legendary greek myths. Readers loved them.

But if they were so popular, why did they split?

Because of the editors of course!

The Batman office really wanted Dick back so they took him away from the Titans office. But the problem is they ripped Dick away from Kory without producing a proper backstory for either of them, especially her. They then continued writing comics that degraded Kory and Dick's relationship into a lust filled romance in order to promote Barbara as Dick's true love.

Other writers for comics more recently continued diminishing the original pairing to support their own agenda or included it to support it.

HOW CAN YOU BALDLY CALL THIS LUST:

Anyway, the Dickbabs was well received which led to a strong divide between fans in Dickkori and Dickbabs. In return DC started altering between different stories based on fans' interest which led to a confusing mess and inconsistent timeline where Dick is torn between multiple love interests. Which is why they would characterize Dick incorrectly or break things off abruptly so he could more easily be torn from the lover he was with to the one of their choice. *cough* Bea/Helena/Shawn/Bridget (especially) *cough*

While I don't like the back and forth, as a Dick Grayson multishipper, I can say I greatly benefitted from it 😅

[jasntodds]

Caving In [13]

Pairing: Gar Logan x Fem!Powered!Reader, Jason Todd x Fem!Powered!Reader

Words: 13,401

Chapter Warnings: Swearing, angst, hurt/comfort, I’m messing with the timeline a bit because I can lol, this is the only chapter that’s laid out like this, nightmares, mentions of death, Jason and reader do not have the healthiest coping mechanisms, mentions of burns, mentions of injures

Summary: ❝Tell me Atlas: What is heavier, The world or its people’s hearts?❞ You never expected your life to end up this way, turned upside down by an infamous Gotham villain. It’s been a living hell, every single day, until Dick Grayson brings you to Titans tower where you meet Gar Logan and Jason Todd.

A/N: I made a little bit of a mess but I fix a lot of it next chapter lol I am easily motivated to post more often when I get feedback 😂 You can add yourself to the tag list below, ask me to be tagged, or you can follow my library blog @jasntoddslibrary​​ and turn on notifications if you prefer that!!

series masterlist | masterlist | tag list

Over the next two days, the three of you have been keeping your distance more from each other than usual. Gar is trying, of course, because he always tries to make sure everyone is okay. But, you and Jason aren’t feeling it. Jason has pretty much locked himself in the training room but Rose is keeping him company and you’ve been pacing from room to room here and there. You find yourself mostly in the room where all of the Titans used to keep their suits, the displays haunted of what used to be. And Gar lets you and Jason be, but he checks on you both every so often, offering a snack and something to drink. You might not want to talk, but both of you appreciate the effort. You alway take everything with a sweet smile while Jason reluctantly tells him to put them on a bench only for him to go for them as soon as Gar is gone.

You’re currently seated looking at the display that says “Robin” and you’re caught in your thoughts about everything. What could have been and what should have been. You didn’t have a big plan for your life. But, you thought you’d finish school and maybe you’d follow in your mom’s footsteps. But, you’d go out and you’d do things. You’d find a purpose in this life and it would be great. You’d have hard times because you can’t have the good without the bad, but you’d find a purpose and you’d be happy. You never expected all of this though. The fighting and the torture and the pain. The pain that bleeds and bleeds and bleeds. You think the wounds are turning into scabs but then the scabs fall off and there’s just more blood and pain. It’s just so hard and you swear it was never supposed to be this hard.

“Hey,” There’s a soft voice pulling your attention towards the hallway. “How’re you doing?” Kory has a soft smile as she walks into the room.

“I’m fine.” You give your the same smile and look back to the displays.

“We didn’t officially meet. I’m Kory.” Kory says as she sits down beside you.

“Y/n.” You nod once at her. “Heard a lot about you. Alien from Tamaran who’s a total badass.” You laugh softly, looking back to the display. “Very accurate. You can shoot fire which is, in fact, badass.”

Kory laughs softly. “Thank you.” She watches you who doesn’t crack another smile. You don’t know her but Dick is worried about you and Jason. Kory’s always been better about getting the younger Titans to talk. “Dick is pretty worried about you.”

You glance at her. “I was kidnapped, held captive again, tortured again, and almost murdered again. Yeah, I’d say that’s probably fair to worry.” You snip and then looks back to her and it’s kind of like talking to Gar. The kindness. “Sorry, uh, he shouldn’t worry, I’ll be fine.” You force a smile that should have been reassuring but lacked any sort of emotion.

Maybe you’re tired of always being fine. When your mom died, you never got to process that correctly. You were in a constant state of flight or fight living on the streets. In a way, it was nice because you never had to deal with that agonizing pain. And then you’d be fine. Then there was Jerry and you got to process that, and then you were gonna be fine. And now you’re here with all this new trauma, and you’re gonna be fine. You’ll always be fine but you’re tired of this routine.

In a weird way, being checked on, has the opposite effect that it should. Instead of making you feel better and loved and cared for, it makes you feel like you’re destroying a part of people’s lives. They’re worried about you and everyone should have bigger and better things to worry about. It puts this pressure on you to be fine. You don’t want to be fine anymore but if you crack, maybe you won’t ever recover from it. So, you keep your eyes on the Robin spot, wishing you had been smart enough to rob the Batmobile and get caught.

“Can I ask why you guys decided to go?” Kory asks, her brows knitted together.

You shrug, glancing to her before looking back to the Robin display. Everyone talks highly of Kory, even Jason. So, a part of you thinks you could tell Kory. At least at this point, you don’t really have a lot to lose. What is she gonna do? Tell Dick you and Jason just want to do something to help? And Dick’s gonna get mad? He’s already mad. It’s not like it matters very much.

“Jason,” You suck in a breath. “He just wanted to show Dick what he can do and I already fucked up and I figured that if we go with Gar, it shows initiative and responsibility because there were three us of against a fucking lightbulb. And if Jason got into some trouble, I could bail him out and maybe Dick would see that we’re…good enough, I guess? He already thinks Gar is.” You roll your eyes. “And Rachel is his lap dog.” You scoff and look to Kory who does not look like she likes that comment. “I like Rachel, to clarify, and I get why, but she is.”

“Dick knows you guys are all good enough. If he didn’t think so, none of you would be training to be Titans.”

“Yeah, but we’re just stuck here. I’ve been here for almost three months and we’ve done nothing. Jason, Gar, and Rachel have been here for four and you guys did all that other stuff. Jason is literally Robin for fuck’s sake,” You feel yourself getting mad. “What more does he want?”

“He just doesn’t want any of you to get hurt. I’m sorry, but you and Jason did get hurt.” Kory tries to reason with you and you know she’s probably right.

“Yeah.” You nod your head. “I guess.” You hang your head. “Thanks, by the way, for saving my life.”

“Of course.” Kory’s voice is so soft and gentle with the words. “Rachel’s told me a lot about you.” Kory changes the subject, getting the idea you don’t want to continue the conversation. She gains your full attention with the comment. “She said you’re really good with the fighting and knives.” Kory says and you smile softly. “She also said you’ve been a good friend to her since you’ve been here and she enjoys having you around.”

“Really?” You raise a brow. “I kind of thought she was annoyed by me, sometimes anyway, I spend a lot of time with the boys.”

“She also said that.” Kory laughs. “But, yeah, she said you’re good to talk to and you have her back with Jason a lot of the times. Gar plays Switzerland?”

“Yeah, he’s pretty neutral when it comes to them.” You laugh. “Jason can be….a little….harsh sometimes.” You let out a breath. “Rachel’s a good friend, too though.”

Kory gives you a sweet smile. “Well, you guys could talk. She’s going through some stuff, maybe it’ll help.”

“You and Gar always about the talking.” You let out a half-sigh, half-chuckle. “Yeah, maybe.” Your brows furrow. “Wait, what’s going on with her?”

“Probably best if she tells you.”

“Ah.” You nod once.

“Be careful, though, okay? From what I’ve heard, you’re a good kid. Last night was scary,” You eye Kory softly. “Maybe, don’t listen to Jason so much.” Kory laughs softly and you nod. “Dick is just trying to protect you guys.”

“Yeah, I know.” You chew the inside of your cheek. “I’m an asshole to him but… that’s because he makes it easy.” You let out a breath as Kory goes to get up. “Hey, Kory?” Kory turns to look at you. “It’s okay that I’m mad at him though, right? Dick, I mean.”

“For what?”

“Not saving me.” You state cautiously. “I get it, I-I do. But, I’m mad anyway.”

Kory nods with understanding. “Yeah, it’s okay. He’s mad at you guys, too.”

“He is always mad at least one of us.” You chortle.

“Don’t be too hard on him, though. He’s doing his best.”

“Yeah,” You nod. “Thank you.” You smile softly at Kory as just Dick comes into view.

“If you want to talk, come find me, okay?”

“I will, thank you.” You nod and look back to the display while Kory leaves.

When you asked about how Bruce was as a parent, Dick said Bruce did his best. Now, Kory is saying that Dick is doing his best. It’s what you thought. It’s a thing people say when that person isn’t going a good job but it’s supposedly their best. It’s the best they can do but it needs to be better. This was your fault and you know that. But, had Dick done a better of job of communicating the urgency of you staying behind or asking you and Jason for help, had he just let Jason help with anything, it would have been different.

Dick is really good at training all of you. He was Robin so of course he’s good at it. But, when it comes to the communication side of everything, he’s horrible at it. Anyone who has a ten-minute conversation with Jason about Robin, can figure out that it’s the most important thing to him. Then, if they just look at his upbringing which Dick does know, it’s not that hard to figure out it’s because Jason just wants to be good enough. Dick’s best is not good enough. You like him, but you think maybe he needs to try a little harder.

“I am fine, you don’t have to worry. It’s our fault. It was fucking stupid.” You ramble things off in a monotone voice as Dick takes a seat next to you. “It was really fucking stupid. We could have been killed, could have gotten everyone else killed. We can’t go rogue like that because you have rules.” You squint your eyes slightly before looking up at Dick. “Did I forget anything?”

The softest chuckle escapes Dick as he shakes his head with raised brows. “No, I think you got it all.”

You nod solemnly. “Yeah.” You let out a deep sigh. “You can still lecture if you want though.”

“Do you…do you want me to lecture you?” Dick laughs, confused by the comment.

“I mean no,” You scoff. “I deserve it though.” You hang your head.

“Okay, yeah, it was stupid.” Dick nods his head and decides not to lecture, but to ask. “You could have been killed, you and Jason almost were killed. What were you thinking?”

“I’m not speaking for Jason, if you can’t figure that out by now, that’s your own fucking problem, Dickolas. As for me though,” You look forward again. “Just wanted to prove I’m good enough and useful, I guess.”

“You are good enough and useful.”

“Mhm, but uh, doesn’t feel like it here. I mean, okay, sure Jerry was a bad idea. I acknowledge that and I apologized for it but,” You hold up a finger. “Had I not gone, he might still be torturing another fucking kid or worse. So,” You shrug. “Wasn’t too bad of an idea, right? And not once, did it ever feel like it because you were always so hung up on us going rogue. Not, the good part of that. Lecture, us, sure we deserve it. But, positive reinforcement tends to work better, statically.”

Dick nods his head. “You did save that kid that night, you and Jason. Jason calling me was the right thing to do.”

“See, not that hard.”

Dick pauses for a few seconds, trying his best to find some positive out of last night. How is he supposed to find something positive in that? He’s not even good at it. Bruce was not the positive reinforcement type.

“Well, thanks to you guys, we know Dr. Light was working with Deathstroke.” Dick states, deciding that’s about as good as it’s gonna get.

You let out a booming laugh. Of course, that’s what he’s going to pick to focus on. It almost hurts. “Okay, uh, me and Jason stuck together, came up with a plan to escape, we did have Gar, and you went to finding out Deathstroke was around. That tracks.”

“It’s true.” Dick defends.

“Oh, no, it is. I just find it funny. Yeah, guess that’s true.” You roll your eyes. “You know, we defended each other...like the whole time.” You eye him slightly. “Worked together, that’s a good thing.”

“Look, I know you guys….care….” Dick treads lightly, not liking that aspect of the conversation and you eye him with confusion and hesitance, unsure of where the hell he could possibly be going with this. “About each other.”

“You look like you’re gonna puke, dude.”

“I don’t do those talks.”

“You literally do not have to.” You let out a scoff.

The last possible thing you want to talk about is that, with anyone, but especially with Dick. You might get it, understand it, and agree with the reasoning Jason has. You have your own reasoning why it shouldn’t happen. But, it doesn’t make it hurt any less on top of the other night. You’d like to go back to living in oblivion. But, is does not look like Dick is gonna let it rest.

“I do, you and Jason are my responsibility.” Dick states. “But, the two of you following each other like the other night and with Jerry, even if that did not end poorly, can be bad. I’ve seen it.” Dick confesses but doesn’t give further details. “I’m just warning you to be careful.”

“I…I…r…okay. Uh, I am my own person and so is Jason. I mean, I could have talked him out of it, and didn’t. Honestly, if it weren’t for him, I still probably would have had the idea. The only difference is Gar would have been able to talk me out of it.”

“You’re proving my point. The two of you need someone who can be the reason of logic.” Dick’s expression turns harsh. 

You want to fight back but you’re too tired. It’s exhausting. “Ah….” You nod your slowly. “Yeah, probably.” You sigh. “We are friends, by the way. We discussed it. It’s fine. You don’t have to worry, Dick.” You offer him a sad smile.

“I don’t think you’ve ever called me Dick without being sarcastic.” There's a hint of worry in his voice with the remark.

The more he talks to you and Jason, the more worried he gets about you both. Jason is more snippy than usual, taking the blame, putting the entire night on his shoulders. He won't stop training even when Dick tells him to rest. You, you aren't even putting up a front which Dick has only known you to do. You’re not telling him it was your idea. You’re being understanding. This is not gonna be good.

“Yeah, well, sometimes you happen to right about things. Not often, but sometimes.”

“Are you going to start listening to me then?” Dick chuckles.

“Oh, Dickolas,” You put a hand on his shoulder. “Absolutely fucking not. I will, probably, be more inclined to listen about not going rogue though. Did learn a lesson from the other night.”

“Learn anything else by chance?”

“Yeah, men are shitty who target people because of some weird ass vendetta against someone else which is fucked up. Oh, I would die for Jason and he would do the same for me. Combat clairvoyance is also super fucking cool when I'm not the one being attacked. Jason, literally, cannot shut the fuck up. Hank is surprising protective. Deathstroke fucking SUCKS. Dr. Light was a wimp.” You let out a scoff at Dr. Light’s name. 

“W-what do you mean about your combat clairvoyance?” Dick blinks at you, not even sure he wants to unpack any of that.

“Oh, yeah, felt the throbbing and then it stopped. Deathstroke went after Jason but I turned before he could do anything. Pretty neat, right?” You raise your brows at Dick.

Dick chuckles softly. “Yeah, that’s cool.” Dick pauses for a few seconds as you look back to the Robin display, your eyes go distant. Dick clears his throat. “Can I ask what happened?”

“Uh���like…?”

“How you guys were kidnapped? What all happened? Any of it might be useful in finding Deathstroke.”

“Oh, um….Jason got Dr. Light down. It was going pretty well, actually. Jason didn’t need my help, really. At the beginning, I stepped in, but he was fine after that. I was watching and then the throbbing started and I went to turn around and Deathstroke was there with the sword. Dr. Light started laughing so Jason stopped. That’s when they attacked us, knocked us out, and brought us to a basement.” Sam shakes her head, furrowing her brows. “I don’t know, uh, at some point I guess he took care of Dr. Light. He went on a villain speech rant thing. Very dramatic. Something about you roping us in to get killed or whatever. He forced us to the roof and you know the rest.” You skimp on the details of the night. It might be helpful, maybe. But, you don't think giving Dick the detail of Deathstroke beating up you and Jason will be helpful. You’re reliving it enough without saying it out loud. And you really don't remember much of his speech, just that is was all Dick's fault.

Dick nods. “Thank you.” Dick sighs. “I’m sorry that happened to you guys.”

“Well, we are both nothing if not resilient, right? We’ll recover eventually…right?” You look at Dick and this time, there’s an actual sense of worry in your eyes.

“Yeah, of course you will.” Dick offers a soft smile. “Well, don’t pull that shit again.”

“Yes, sir.” You give him a thumbs-up.

“Maybe listen to Gar more, too, both of you.”

“Mhm, noted.” You scoff. “Kory’s cool, you should like….do something about that.” You’re tired of this conversation and you know this will get Dick to stop.

Dick’s voice contorts as you try to hold back a grin. “You’re not funny.” Dick sighs as he gets up.

“I’m fucking hilarious. It’s true though, like seriously, lecture me about Jason but you’re not like……..with her??? Dude, she’s hot, a total badass, came to fight Deathstroke with you. SAVED ME. AND SHE’S NICE??????? Seriously, man. Get it the fuck together.”

“Okay, I’m done here. If you want to talk about the other night, let me know.”

“Will do.” You salute him sarcastically before he heads out.

Dick is trying to help and maybe if you were in a better place mentally, you would appreciate it. But, you find yourself annoyed by it. He just does not get it and it feels like he doesn't even want to try. Sure, he's worried and he cares about the both of you but he's so bad at communicating it and understanding. It's difficult to open up and actually have a conversation about anything. It's frustrating and you know it does not help that you’re mad at him. So, you’re glad to be left alone where you can sit and let the guilt cloud your mind.

The night goes on and within two hours of falling asleep, you wake from a nightmare. This time it's not about Jerry which is not even a bit relieving. You thought maybe a change in pace of nightmares might be a little better. At least it's not about you getting tortured but you were wrong. Somehow, your new nightmare is worse than the Jerry nightmares. And normally, you'd go to Gar because he always makes you feel better but you can't find yourself able to do that. Not right now.

You woke him last night from a nightmare and this time would be the same. You'd go into his room, wake him up, he'd turn on the light, and you'd talk. Gar would ask about he nightmare and give you this look you can't say no to. But, the idea of telling Gar about this one, feels so wrong. And there's a part of you that thinks maybe you should suffer alone tonight. You’ve already made Gar and Jason suffer enough, it's your turn. You don't have to sleep tonight and that's fine with you. So, you turn on a movie that'll hold your attention just enough to keep you awake.

Twenty minutes later, you’re engaged enough in your movie but there's a knock at your door. For a second, you pause. You almost think you’re imagining the noise as you check the time on your phone seeing it read 3 am. You wonder if you’re imagining it because no one comes to your room this late but then the knocking continues and you decide to get up, just to check.

You gets up and walk to the door. Your hands shake slightly and you reach up to the doorknob. You suck in a deep breath and twist the knob. Deathstroke wouldn't knock.

"Jay?" You shake your head at the sight of Jason in a black t-shirt and matching shorts, his hair disheveled.

"Uh....hey." Jason sucks in a breath and you swear he actually looks...timid.

"Nightmare?" You let your voice go casual.

Jason said he'd come to you and he isn't going to let that be a lie. He figures going to you would probably be a little better than going back to the training room and having Dick find out, then badger him again. Plus, you do make him feel better. If anyone is gonna get it and not ask too many questions or think less of him for it, it'll be you.

Jason nods. "Yep." He let out a dry and straggled chuckle. "Can't sleep, ya know?" He dodges your eyes.

"Well," You offer him a sad smile as you open the door more. "Come in, then." You step aside to allow Jason inside. "You can have the side closest to the window." You state as you start the walk back to your bed while Jason shuts the door.

"Offering your bed, huh?" Jason quips.

"Well, I'm not gonna let you sleep on the floor." Your eyes widen as you sit back down.

Jason can't help the smirk that pulls at his lips. "Still hitting on me, huh?"

"You fucking wish." You let out a soft laugh. "Just can't help it, can you?"

Jason laughs softly. "Reflex, I guess."

"Mhm." You roll your eyes as Jason makes his way over to the side near the windows.

Jason gets into bed and he doesn't know how he wanted this to go. All he knows is that he doesn't want to be alone right now. He's been intentionally keeping his distance from you during the day. It seems easier that way. It's easier for him to let the guilt take over. It's easier to ignore the burning in his chest. But, you’re the only one that he can talk to or not talk to. You let him exist in ways that no one else has ever let him before.

You let out a breath and lay down. "Wanna talk about it?" You turn to face him, holding your head up with your palm.

"Fuck no." Jason lets out a scoff and follows your lead, mimicking the position.

You might have asked him to come to you, figuring he’d end up with nightmares. But, you never expected him to actually do it. You’re glad he did but you didn’t think he’d do it, especially after your discussion about the kiss. Maybe that’s what’s making this feel a little bit more difficult than usual. It hurts to be close to him and you actually hate that it does. But, you’ll never tell him that. As his friend, as the one person he trusts, it’s your job to make sure he’s okay and to suck it up.

"You okay?" You furrow your brows and Jason's eyes glance between your black eye and the cut on your lip.

"You gonna bug me until I talk about it?" Jason quips.

You laugh softly. "No, but, I want to." You let out a breath. "I also had a nightmare, that's why I'm even awake."

You want him to be okay more than anything. You suffering is fine. One day, you'll move on from it, get over it because you always do. As tiring as it is, you'll get over it. It's him you’re worried about. You care about him so much that it physically hurts. And you'll try everything you can to make sure he'll always be okay.

"What was yours about?" Jason asks, glancing to your bandaged hand holding up your head.

You smile and click your tongue because this what you do. The "show me yours and I'll show you mine" game. It works for you both though. If one of you is exposed, then so is the other. The both of you allowing each other to bare your scars and wounds, allowing each other to just bleed while the other joins you is so comforting. It makes it so much easier to bandage those wounds.

You let out a sigh. "You die." Your words are low and shallow but pained and you look to the TV.

"That's what your nightmare was about?" Jason huffs, almost a little too loudly. He can't believe that's what's keeping you up at night. The fear of him dying.

You shrug a shoulder. "Like I said, you're really important to me, Jay." You feel the ache in your chest return. The thought of losing him is paralyzing. "I was where Dick was, I grabbed your hand but you slipped and I couldn't save you. I woke up before you finished falling."

Jason's heart breaks hearing that. He lived it. It was real to him but you didn't even see it. He's so thankful you didn't see him fall, see the fear on his face that he's sure would scar you further.

"Dick didn't try to save me." Jason confesses, looking up the ceiling. "The bomb goes off and I just...fall." Jason shrugs, looking back to you. "Flying guy didn't come."

You cautiously put your free hand on top of Jason's free hand. The gesture alone warms something deep inside the darkest parts of Jason's mind. "Ya know, nightmares are fucking shitty. They, uh, they just play your worst fears for you in a time of vulnerability." You state and Jason keeps his stare on you, wondering where you’re going with this. "But, reality is that Dick tried to save you. Flying guy did save you. I was out there with you." You suck in a breath and let it out slowly, Jason's hand warm under yours. "And in reality, any other time, I'd save you from falling every single time or I'd follow you right to the ground if that's what it took to save you."

"I wouldn't let you." Jason shakes his head, his voice soft but defensive. "I wouldn't let you fucking die for me."

"I know." You nod your head. "But, uh, you don't control me so you're just gonna have to deal with it." You give him a cheeky smirk and something about it makes Jason not feel so broken.

"You always gonna be trying to take care of me?" Jason gains this devilish smirk that makes you laugh quietly.

"You gonna let me, Jay?" You raise the question, matching the smirk.

Jason laughs softly and he can't have this conversation. It's not fair. So, he deflects. "He talk to you, yet?" Jason asks. "Dick."

"Mhm." You roll your eyes. "I lectured myself so I wouldn't be lectured by him."

Jason chuckles quietly. There's something so warm about his smile when he finds something comical. "You lectured yourself?"

"Didn't want to hear it from him, knew what he was gonna say." You laugh quietly. "Don't do that again." You mock Dick's voice poorly. "It was stupid, you need to think because you do that stuff." You roll your eyes. "You?"

"Oh, yeah." Jason scoffs. "It's not your fault, but you should have thought that through. Bruce trained you better than that and if you have to trust me there's a reason we weren't looping you in. I'm just asking for you to trust me." Jason mocks Dick much better than you. "So fucking annoying."

"Ya know, at least he gives a fuck, I guess." You raise your brows before rolling your eyes.

"You think he gives a fuck about any of us?" Jason's eyes widen, the very corner of the right side of his mouth twitching up.

"You don't?" You raise a brow. "Hey, look, it was your hand he grabbed."

"Obligation to Bruce." Jason's voice falls flat.

The comment hurts. He can't possibly believe that's the only reason Dick saved him. Dick is really bad at communicating and showing that he cares like normal people. But, he was raised by Batman who turned Dick's grief into a weapon. Of course, he's bad at it. To you though, it's still clear that he cares even when he's really bad at showing it. If he didn't care, he would not lecture either of you about being stupid and reckless. He'd let you get yourselves killed. Obligation to Bruce or not.

You shake your head. "Do you really believe that, Jay?"

Jason shrugs. "No, but he doesn't seem to like me much."

Deep down he doesn't think it was an obligation to Bruce. But, he does know that taking him in to be a Titan is. Dick didn't want his help in Chicago. No one wanted his help with Trigon until they couldn't get Bruce to help and even then, he wasn't really wanted. Jason is Dick's responsibility, it doesn't matter how Dick handles it because it's still a favor for Bruce. And maybe that stings a little.

"Okay, but I don't think that's always true." Your voice is quiet.

"How the fuck do you figure?" Jason scoffs.

"Well, I mean, he does look out for you. He does let you help us train. You two do get along often enough. He drives you insane and we both drive him insane. Like it or not, you two are brothers...in a roundabout kind of way. You act like it. Like, remember when we hooked up speakers to blare the SpongeBob theme song through Dick's room at four am?"

Jason starts laughing, he almost can’t get the words out. "He was so mad."

"He was." You gush. "But, he also thought it was funny and really appreciated us going to bed early so we could be awake at three in the morning to pull it off."

"And then he got us back." Jason sighs. "Shut off the fucking hot water--"

"Mid shower." You almost yell. "Asshole." You and Jason laugh quietly. "Hey, look, if he hated you, he would not tolerate it all. Gar said you would do that shit to him before I got here. So, I don't know what his issue is but I don't think he hates you." You pause for a few seconds. "Honestly, I think the only one that hates you is Rachel which is a problem between the two of you."

"Didn't everyone warn you about me?" Jason moves his hand on top of yours and your heart nearly jumps out of your chest.

"Yeah, but it wasn't...like...bad. It was just 'oh, you get used to him' which, by the way, was very true. I think most people take getting used to."

"You really like kissing my ass." Jason chortles, starting to feel like this spotlight is following him around a stage.

"I do not." You state. "But, sometimes, I think you need to hear that you're important."

Jason does need to hear it. No one has ever told him he's important. His parents definitely never did. Bruce hasn't. No one who's ever tried to help him has. Even when people do show they care about him, he's never been told he's important and it is something he needs to hear, even if he doesn't always want to believe it. At least he's important to you.

"Yeah?" Jason nods his head once at you. If you’re going to expose him, he gets to expose you. It's what you do and it works. "What do you need to hear then?"

"Defeats the purpose if I tell you, Jay." You chuckle.

Jason pauses because similar to you, he knows what you need to hear to. He doesn't know about your breakdown. Not the dirty details of it. Gar, naturally, told him a bit of it because he's worried, too. Jason pays attention just as much as Gar does, he just doesn't show it often or in the same ways.

"You deserve to be taken care of, instead of taking care of other people." Jason's fingertips tap the top of your hand.

Your brows furrow as your heart stops. "What? I mean...what do you mean?"

"Looking over me, get the feeling you always do that. Look after other people that you care about and no one was there to look after you. I don't know, you deserve to be taken care of."

"I am, uh, not always easy to be taken care of." You clear your throat. "My best friend kind of tried, ya know? But uh..." You let out a breath. "I can do this on my own attitude."

"Look at who you're talking to, babe." Jason chuckles. "Yeah, so you should let someone take care of you because you deserve a break."

In another world, you quip back and ask if he'll be the one taking care of you. And he'd get this grin that always makes you feel like the world isn't out to get you, then dodge it. In another world, the conversation would be had and things would be different. Better maybe, less painful. But, you live in this one where you had the conversation already. Even saying it sarcastically, puts too much pressure on that. So, you bite back the comment that should have been.

"Thank you, Jay." You look down to your hands.

You don't know it, but Jason knows he'll always take care of you. It doesn't matter about him and Rose or you and Gar because someone has to take care of you, always. He gets you better than anyone so he'll do everything in his power to take care of you, even if it's from afar. He's important to you, but you’re also one of the most important people in his life.

"What're you watching?" Jason looks to the TV, seeing a black dragon try to fly but falling into the water.

"How To Train Your Dragon." You snicker softly. "It's Dreamworks."

"Never seen it." Jason laughs softly, knowing that'll get a reaction out of you.

"How have you never seen this movie? It's like one of the best film trilogies ever made." You whisper-yell at him with wide eyes.

Jason laughs again. "I don't watch a lot of movies. Why are you always so surprised?" Jason continues to laugh and he loves getting a rise out of you even over movies. "There's three?"

"Mhm, and all three of them are flawless."

"What's it about?" Jason asks, there's a softness in the smirk he's daunting.

"Hiccup is a Viking and it's a world where dragons exist but the Vikings hunt down the dragons thinking they're evil monsters. But, Hiccup isn't good at killing and he's interested in the dragons so he meets Toothless and he learns about dragons through Toothless. And he finds out that dragons aren't evil, they're just scared of humans because they're being hunted." You explain the movie with as much excitement as you can without getting too loud and Jason rubs the back of your hand with his thumb, not even realizing he's doing it.

"That sounds kind of cool, actually." Jason looks back to the TV as Hiccup gets the two-headed dragon back into the cage.

"It's sick, Jay. You gotta watch em all." You keep your eyes on the TV and the act of Jason rubbing the back of her hand makes you feel so at home.

"Yeah, maybe." Jason huffs softly, a sweet smile pulling at his lips as he turns so he's flat on his back. He props his head up with his right arm so he can watch the movie.

Jason glances over at you as you mimic his position. He sucks in a breath and extends his arm toward you. You raise a brow and he gestures his arm towards himself and back to you. You gain a smirk as you move closer to him.

"Uh-huh, still hitting on me, huh?" You let out the cutest laugh Jason has ever heard as your nose scrunches.

"Yeah, you fucking wish." Jason chuckles while you make yourself comfortable on his chest. "Just can't help it?" Jason quips looking down at you.

"Maybe it is a reflex." You smile against him with your voice light and airy, Jason's arm wraps around you and his hand rest on your waist.

The two of you go quiet as you watch the movie. It feels safe, wrapped in each other with a comfort movie playing. The nightmares might haunt you both but at least you're safe in this room together. You both might be scarred and traumatized, but when you're with each other, despite everything, it doesn't feel like you are. It's so casual and comfortable. It's easy together and the world doesn't feel so heavy anymore.

The next morning rolls around and you wake up alone. Jason woke up an hour before and he figured he'd go back to the new routine. Standing in his room, training, and hanging out with Rose. You made him feel better last night and it's great but he can't wake up to you because that makes it harder. It makes the whole thing with Deathstroke and choosing Rose harder. It shouldn't but it does. He knows it's all for the best but it hurts anyway. So, you wake alone and if you wanted to be honest, it's not all that surprising. You’re kind of happy about it because now you don't have to deal with that weird awkwardness that happens when you wake up together. That's too complicated to deal with right now.

You make your way to the kitchen where Gar is eating breakfast and Donna is sitting in the living room with Dawn. You offer Gar a tired but kind smile as you sit next to him.

"Good morning." Gar chimes.

"Morning." You nod your head once at him.

"How'd you sleep?" Gar's smile is so kind and sweet.

"Uh...didn't sleep much." You let out a sigh. "Nightmare, it's fine. Um...don't tell Jason I told you but he had one, too and came to my room. So, I wasn't alone and it's fine. Honest." You state and Gar isn't sure if you’re trying to convince him or yourself.

"You sure?" Gar questions and his expression switches to worry.

"Yeah, it's fine. Hey, um," You perk up, trying to look more alive. "Wanna play video games today? Your pick."

"Sure, yeah." Gar nods softly at you and decides not to push.

It feels a little wrong to you. Nothing happened, just like last time but it feels like something did anyway. It feels wrong and you can't tell him any of it because it's too much. You don't want him to know all of it. So, now you just feel like you’re lying even though you’re not.

It'll get easier, that's what you tell yourself. The more days that go by, it'll get easier because you’re also picking Gar. He's kind and good. Jason told you you deserve to be taken care of and Gar is really good at taking care of people. You like him and you swear you do. So, you swear you'll put more effort into him.

That night, you wake up from another nightmare. This one was a little different than the night before. This time, Deathstroke was actually there. He held the sword to your back and threatened you until you pushed the button of the detonator to make Jason fall. It was your life or his and Deathstroke was making you decide. Pain started right in your back because you refused to press the button as Jason was yelling at the glass, begging you not to press the button. But, you do anyway. And then you woke up.

Your heart is beating in your chest and tears sting the back of your eyes. You know it wasn't real because Jason was saved. You were out there with Jason. You knows it wasn't real but something about it felt real. It felt horrifying and you swear you can feel the pain in your back as you’re awake. It's almost paralyzing and normally, you go to Gar. But, this dream was about you making the decision to let yourself die or kill Jason. So, you get up and walk to the left instead of right and go to Jason's room.

"Can't sleep?" Jason asks as he opens the door.

"Nightmare." You nod, shifting your weight from your toes to your heels.

Jason nods and lets you inside. He can't sleep either. If he sleeps, he has a nightmare. If he has a nightmare, he can't fall back asleep for a few hours anyway. When he's awake, he feels like he's still falling. When he's alone, that's all he can see. Windows falling past him and his limbs feel limp. What's the point of sleeping when his nightmares are just his reality anyway? So, he decided not to sleep tonight.

"Thought you go to Gar when you have a nightmare?" Jason asks and he's more or less a big fan of self-sabotage.

"I said I'd come to you." You state. "Unless you want me to leave cause--"

"No." Jason cuts you off. "You don't have to."

You gain a tired smirk. "Exactly."

“Did you wanna talk about it?” Jason asks, leaning against the table near the door.

You shrug. “You gonna tell me why you’re awake?” Your eyes narrow slightly. Jason always has a look like an annoyed beagle when he’s just woken up. He does not look like that right now. Jason gestures a hand out as he tilts his head to the right. “Deathstroke, it was either I push the button to kill you or he kills me.”

Jason lets out a breath and dodges your face. It’s not fair you’re having nightmares about him. You don’t deserve it. And he doesn’t even know how he’s supposed to make you feel better about it because it’s his fault it’s even happening. They’re about him and he lived but that doesn’t matter because it’s happening to you anyway and it’s not fair.

“I pushed it.” You clear your throat and skimp on further details about it.

“Well, that’s bullshit.” Jason scoffs and offers you a smirk. “Deathstroke wouldn’t be able to get you to do shit like that.”

“Yeah, I know.” You chuckle softly and shake your head.

“You okay?” Jason drops the smirk and lets worry seep into his voice.

“Yeah,” You furrow your brows, looking to the ground and back to him. “Just...ya know, tired.” You scoff.

Jason shrugs. "Wanna train?"

You shake your head, taken aback. "I am saying this because I care about you," You watch him carefully. "I'm really fucking worried about you."

"I'm fine!" Jason defends and he's got that grin that you’ve learned means trouble. "Really, I said we could train if you can't sleep."

"Right, yeah, but it's two in the morning and you're still limping, Jay." You lack any form of banter or smile this time. "Notice, Dick didn't have training sessions for us today. There's a reason for that. You also did not tell me why you’re awake."

"You on his side, huh?" Jason scoffs looking the side and back to you.

"No, Jason." You roll your eyes. "But, you're hurt and awake at two in the fucking morning. You wanna train. Last time, you offered to read instead of train. I'm worried about you."

Jason steps forward and puts his hands on your shoulders. "I'm fine, Y/n. You're turning into Gar, you know that?"

You let out a sigh, looking at Jason. His lip still cut and a bruise still dawns the right side of his cheek. "I'm not turning into Gar but I don't believe for a second that you're fine."

Jason drops his hands and lets out a scoff. "Did you wanna fucking argue about how I'm feeling at two in the morning?"

You pause. "No." You say softly and you’re watching him, his hands are shaking at his sides. "Actually, yeah I fucking do." You straighten your stance. "Why do you have such a fucking problem with me trying to help you?" This is not the usual conversation you both have but you’re tired and scared of losing him. The nightmare felt too real.

The question catches him off guard. Jason takes a step back but he's ready to go. "If it's so fucking hard, then stop."

Your eyes narrow before you roll them and walk up to him, mimicking his actions from seconds earlier. You place your hands on both of his shoulders. "No, you don't get to do that, not with me." You shake your head. "It's not hard but you have an issue with it for some reason. Regardless of what comes out of your mouth, I'll always care about you and I'll always look out for you. But, what is it about me caring about you that you don't seem to have an issue with?"

Jason shakes his head. "I don't have a fucking problem with it, alright?"

Jason and self-sabotage go hand-in-hand but, you don’t back down. You call his bluff every single time. And telling you things to push you away is only going to hurt you more. Jason, for the first time, has to push the sabotaging away, just slightly. For your sake.

"Then what it is?" You drop your hands and crosses your arms.

Jason looks away from you. "Everyone who's ever given a fuck about me, gives up. You said you won't but everyone does." Jason lets out a dry chuckle that nearly shatters you. He's not having this conversation. He looks back to you, throwing his arms out casually. "Look, I'm fine, alright? It's not a thing."

"What do I have to do to prove to you that I'm not them?" You ask. "Your hands are shaking."

Jason shakes his head and he knows what. He wants to tell you, despite what he said about the kiss, to tell him he’s an idiot and you wanna be with him anyway. But, that's not fair to any of you because you shouldn't have to prove it to him. Jason should just believe you because of everything that's happened so far. A part of him does believe you, it's hard for him and Jason swears it always will be. So, he brushes it off.

"Nothing, alright? It's fine, we're fine. It's good. I'm fine." Jason assures you and you can see the brokenness in his eyes. "Come on, come train with me." Jason jerks his head towards the door. "I'll read to you after."

You hang your head and this boy, he's gonna be the death of you. You’re so sure of that. You’re worried about him. You’re more worried about him than you are about anyone else. But, you try to swallow it because it's only been a few days. It takes time and if anyone knows that, it's you.

"You'll read to me again?" You raise your brows.

"Yeah, of course." Jason smirks at you.

"Yeah, okay fine. You've convinced me." You roll your eyes and walk towards the door. There’s no fighting Jason and maybe if you train with him, he’ll start talking. "But, like I said, I'm always gonna take care of you so I'll go easy on you." You hold your head and wink at him.

"You're not that good, babe."

"We'll see, shithead." You mock him and Jason lets out a laugh.

Over the next week, you and Jason continue to have nightmares that leave you not sleeping very much. Half the nights, you find yourself in Gar's room and every time you wake him up, you feel guilty. At this point, you’re pretty sure he's not sleeping any more than you are because you keep waking him up either by coming into his room or by having nightmares next to him. He's really nice about it and really good about talking you down from them because, while you hate talking about them, you’ve been telling Gar hoping it'll help. It hasn't.

The other half of the nights, you find yourself in Jason's room. You said you'd go to him and he's having nightmares every night, too. At least he isn't sleeping so you don't feel guilty for going to him. You both talk about your nightmares in the joking way that you usually talk about your trauma and you both think that might help. It hasn't. So, you train for an hour or two every time you come to his room and then he reads to you. Those are the only nights Jason actually gets some sleep.

Every other night, Jason stares out of his window and stands there for hours, just staring. He watches himself fall, he watches the windows pass him and he waits for the collision of the ground to suck the air from his lungs but it never comes. He wishes it would though. He doesn't sleep unless you’re with him and he's pretty sure he only gets some sleep to satisfy you. Or maybe it's because he's comfortable with you and he wants to satisfy you so you don't have to talk about him not sleeping. Sleeping is becoming just as much of a chore as breathing for him.

As for the days, you spend a lot of time with Gar. He keeps the thoughts away throughout the day. He asks just enough questions to make sure you’re okay but he's learning not to pester you because you'll talk on your own time and with the right questions. You’ve gone further in detail about the night and it breaks Gar's heart all over again. But, he lets you talk and he listens and reassures you over and over and over again that's not your fault. And you play video games together because that's Gar's way to get away from all the negative shit. It helps during the day a little.

But things are different. You can't put your finger on it but things are different. The other Titans whisper and have meetings. There's more going on than just them looking for Deathstroke. You aren't sure what the hell it is and you don't care much. Donna, Dawn, and Kory at least check on you and you’re thankful it's them and not Dick since you’re still mad. But, it's weird and it's different.

Gar is back to giving you that sympathetic look of worry and you hate it again. Rachel seems upset with you, probably because you didn't tell her you were going to hunt down Dr. Light and she wasn't included. And Jason is avoiding you during the day, not that you’re seeking him out much during the day either. It hurts being around him because you look at him and all you see is your own guilt staring you down. All she you is the pain he's going through and knowing it's your fault and there's nothing you can do to fix it. So, you let yourself be closer to Gar and you let yourself just be with him, exposed and maybe that's helping a little bit.

Jason spends a lot of his day either in the training room or in his room staring out of the window. He's intentionally avoiding you and Gar. Jason's been spending more time with Rose though and he is enjoying his time with her. She distracts from all of it, during the day anyway. But, it still feels like there's something sucking the blood right out of him, he's cold and his hands are shaking. He's tired and can't sleep and it's hard to breathe. And he wishes he could just turn back the clock to how it was before because right now, everything sucks.

Everything hurts. His leg is healing but it hurts still and his lungs hurt, his heart hurts. His head hurts and his eyes sting. The other Titans haven't really talked to him much. He feels like an outcast and while things weren't perfect before, he didn't feel like this. 

Now, you’re asleep in Gar's room. You have your head on his chest, your hand on his stomach and his arm is around you. And it was going fine. You were actually getting some much-needed sleep but then, of course, a nightmare hits. This time, it's worse. Normally, when it's about Jason dying, you wake up right before he dies. This time, though, you get to watch the whole thing. From start to finish, you watch him fall onto the car below, you hear him scream just as you did that night a week ago and because that wasn't enough, Deathstroke still stabs you. Dick is sitting off the side just watching it, doing nothing while Jason lays lifeless fifteen stories below you and you bleed out. You scream in your dream only for Gar to be yelling next you, jumping out of the bed and that's enough to wake you up.

You shoot up and see Gar standing off to his side of the bed, face contorted in pain. "W-what happened?" You ask, catching your breath as dread fills your blood.

"You burned me!" Gar yells, his face turning a light shade of green as he looks at you with a sense of terror in his eyes and that's when you see it. His shirt is melted to his side and tears immediately brim your eyes as your entire being just shatters.

"I-I-I'm sorry." You spit out, trying not to completely lose it as you get out of the bed because you cannot look at him right now.

"Y/n!" Gar calls after you but you’re already leaving the room.

Tears start to fall down your cheeks and you can't believe you burned him. Of all fucking people, it just had to be Gar. The one person who never snaps at you and who has always been understanding. He's not dodging anything, he just listens and tries to help and that's just gotten him burned. You want to melt away right into the floor. You should have told him. Why didn't you tell him? You should have been more careful. You should have suffered through your nightmares instead of putting him at risk. You swear you’ve never been so selfish.

There's a rapid knocking on Jason's door, too loud and annoying for him to able to ignore. Normally, he might be annoyed or completely ignore it by putting on headphones, figuring it's just someone who wants to talk about what happened. But, it's four in the morning and the knocking is persistent, only one person is even up around this time sometimes.

Jason opens the door and there you are, cheeks wet. Swelling is setting in your eyes and they're bloodshot. There is something seriously wrong.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Jason asks, looking you over without even realizing he's doing it. Just making sure you aren't physically hurt.

"I-I-I-I b-burned him." You sputter out, voice cracking and breaking.

Jason grabs your hand, pulling you into his room before shutting the door behind you. "Burned who?" Jason asks. "Gar?"

You nod frantically. "I swear I didn't mean to!" You let out a sob. "It was an accident but I hurt him and he's hurt and it's all my fault, Jay! It's my fault he's hurt!" Your voice cracks as your words are almost too fast to comprehend.

"What happened?" Jason asks, trying to keep his voice level and calm with you. He's never seen you like this and it's actually scaring him. He takes on Batman villains without a fear in the world, but you losing it? Yeah, that's terrifying. He wonders if this is how you view him.

"W-w-we were sleeping and-and I-I I had a nightmare and-and-and I-I guess I-I can't control--" You let out a cough as you try to get your words out.

Jason closes the distance between the two of you, putting his hands on your shoulders and squeezing. "I can't understand you. You need to calm down." Jason nods his head, keeping his voice stern to not allow the fear and worry to be revealed.

You suck in a ragged breath. "I had a nightmare." It's a sob that leaves your throat, tears falling down your face as Jason tilts his head slightly. "I can't control it sometimes." Your voice is so broken and defeated, Jason can feel the heartbreak in the marrow of his bones. "I burned him." Your head hangs as you let out another cry.

Jason sighs and he doesn't know what to do to make this better. You burned the person you’re in like with. You blame yourself and Jason hates that because it's not your fault. Sure, he's an asshole to Rachel about not controlling her powers but this is you and this is different because you can control your powers a lot better than Rachel can, at least it seems that way. You haven't tried to kill anyone with yours, on purpose or by accident. This is different and he just feels absolutely horrible and he's worried about Gar because Gar is his best friend. But, it's you who's in his room.

"Come here." Jason moves his hands away from your shoulders, pulling you into a hug, resting his hand on the back of your head.

You wrap your arms around him, your arms weak but you squeeze him as you cry into him. The last thing you want to do is hurt someone by accident but the fact it was Gar and because he's so nice to you, that's another level of guilt you’ve never felt before. It is soul-crushing to know he's hurt and the look of terror he gave you. It didn't matter that he tried not to be mad, you saw the green starting to tint his face. He's hurt and you don't know how bad because you couldn't face him. And maybe you went to Jason instead of Kory or Rachel because Jason is kind of mean when someone can't control their powers. Maybe you hoped Jason would be mean to you because you deserves it but now he's hugging you and rubbing your back.

"It's not your fault, alright?" Jason says, trying to keep his voice steady with you.

"Yes, it is!" You yell out in a sob.

"It's not." Jason says, you looking up to him. "I'd fucking tell you if it was."

"I burned him, Jay."

"Yeah, but you said it was a nightmare. It's not your fucking fault." Jason says and maybe if this happened before Deathstroke, he'd have a different opinion.

He'd probably agree with you and then tell you to make sure he's okay. But, this is after. This is the Jason after who suddenly understands what nightmares do to someone's psyche. Suddenly, he gets just how traumatizing and real the nightmares can feel, even an hour after waking up. He wakes up in a pool of sweat with a racing heartbeat, not able to fall back asleep until the following night. This isn't your fault.

"I never told him." You admit, your chin wrinkling and your voice is small.

"What?" Jason asks, his eyes widening. And now he's remembering that small conversation you had a little over a week ago when Rachel almost killed him.

"It-it wasn't a big deal b-because it never happened with Gar before. I-it only happened w-when I was alone."

"You should have told him!" Jason urges and now he's growing a little annoyed. You knew and while you told him, you should have told Gar. You spend more time in his room than Jason's. It's kind of a need to know thing.

"I know!" You let out another sob.

Jason lets out another sigh and he tries not to be annoyed because you show him patience even when you shouldn't. "Okay, is he okay?"

"I dunno, he was m-mad so-so I came in here."

"How mad was he?" Jason asks, a bit intrigued. Gar never gets mad but Jason doesn't blame him. Being burned awake sounds pretty infuriating.

"He was turning green." You whine.

Jason gains a yikes expression. "Stay here. I'll check on him." Jason pulls away. "Don't fucking go anywhere, got it?" You just stand there as Jason reaches the door. "Y/n!" Jason yells at you, making you look at him. "Sit your ass down. I'm serious, don't fucking go anywhere, I'll be right back." Jason states and you don’t fight him.

Jason watches you walk to his bed and sit on the very edge before he leaves. Jason checks Gar's room and doesn't find him there so he heads to the infirmary. That's where he finds Gar, addressing the burn on his side. He's wincing and groaning as he tries to clean it the best he can. Burns are the worst types of injuries. Nothing really helps them, they just burn.

"Hey, man." Jason walks in, standing a few feet behind Gar, watching in the mirror.

"What?" Gar asks, his voice a little snippy.

"You alright? Y/n told me." Jason says. sticking his hands in his the pockets of his sweatpants.

Gar shakes his head. "I'm fine."

Of course, you told Jason. Gar wouldn't have told anyone. It could have stayed between the two of you and you went to him. You bailed on him after you burned him to go to Jason. Maybe he shouldn’t be mad at that, but he is. His fuse is a lot shorter tonight.

"That's pretty bad." Jason can see the burn from where he stands. There are pieces of fabric glued to it and Jason winces at the sight.

"I know." Gar's voice goes quiet.

"She feels really bad." Jason states and he can't believe he's the one trying to fix something.

"She did burn me." Gar huffs.

He feels horrible for even being upset about it but it hurts. He knows it's not your fault, he knows that. But, Gar wants to know why it's always him in the crossfire of people who can't control their powers. Rachel almost took his hand off and now you gave him a third-degree chemical burn. Shit hurts.

"Yeah," Jason scoffs. "What happened anyway?" Jason asks walking over to him.

"I was asleep, next thing I know, I'm in pain." Gar huffs again, trying to pull a piece of fabric from the burn. He swears he'll never sleep with a shirt on again.

Jason winces as he watches. "She said you were turning green."

"Yeah." Gar states with hints of shame in his voice, getting the last of the fabric from the burn.

"I have her locked in my room."

Gar eyes Jason for the first time since he walked in. "Why?"

"Because she's fucking crying, man. She's losing her mind and I don't know what the fuck she's gonna do." Jason lets out a huff.

Jason knows what he would want to do if it were him so he locked the door from the outside. All the bedroom and infirmary doors lock from the inside and outside, likely some security measure type thing. It's a bit mean if you try to leave but it's better than the alternative.

Gar hangs his head, letting out a sigh. "I know it's not her fault." Gar looks back to Jason. "She's going through a lot and I should have..."

"Expected her to burn you?" Jason quips.

"No," Gar lets out a scoff. "I don't know, been prepared, I guess."

"Not your fault either." Jason states. He watches Gar try to be careful with the wound but it doesn't look like it's working. This is such a strange position for Jason to be in. It's normally you and Gar trying to help him but now he's gotta help the both of you. He owes you both. "I got an idea, you wanna help?"

Gar eyes Jason with suspension. "Depends, the last time you had an idea you and Y/n got kidnapped and dropped from a skyscraper." Gar snips, taking Jason off guard.

Jason rolls his eyes. "Thanks for reminding me." Jason snips back and he wonders if this is what you and Gar deal with with him. "It's about Y/n and you." Jason says.

"What is it?" Gar quirks a brow, his interest piquing.

This is Jason trying to help. Gar's said it a thousand times, Jason is actually a good friend. But, he is a little surprised that Jason is so willing to offer help with him and you. Gar isn't blind or stupid.

"She's cool, ya know? And you guys....are cool together, I guess." Jason swallows his pride and feelings about you and Gar almost chuckles at Jason struggling to talk. "So, I have an idea for her not to burn you....or anyone in her sleep."

"Because it's a matter of time before she burns you, too." Gar quips. Jason opens his mouth to argue but now he's just confused. "I know she sleeps in your room sometimes."

"I'm not overstepping, man." Jason defends himself quickly. "It's not like that." He wishes it were but he’s already that decision. And, you’re better off with Gar anyway.

"Right." Gar nods, not believing him.

Gar knows you and Jason aren't doing anything. Gar knows there isn't anything going on between you because neither of you would lead Gar on. But, he can see it. Everyone can see it. He knows something was going on before Deathstroke.

"Do you want my fucking help or you gonna give up on her?" Jason snaps and he knows what it's like to have someone give up. Gar isn't the type but it's sure seeming like it.

Gar's shoulders slump forward. "I'm not giving up on her." Gar's voice is small and has lost its venom. "What's your idea?" Gar lets out a sigh and goes back to cleaning his wound.

"My cape is fireproof." Jason states with a bit of pride and Gar wants to explode but he holds it together to find out what Jason means, specifically.

"Okay, and that has to do with what?"

"If it's fireproof, maybe it's Y/n proof." Jason suggests.

"Dude," Gar lets out a huff and he can't take it anymore. "What the hell is going on with you guys?"

It's not fair to him. He's waited because he thought that was the right thing to do. You were going through a lot and he didn't want to try and do anything if you weren't ready. But, Jason is always around and it's like he's in second place with Jason. Which, is fine, if Gar knows that but the two of you are so fucking wishy-washy about everything and Gar can't figure it out. This is the last straw. You burned him early in the morning and Jason is suggesting something involving one of his prized possessions.

Jason shakes his head and this is it. There's no turning back if he answers this how he needs to. Gar will tell you and that'll be it. He knows that's what's best. It's part of why he's dodging you both during the day. It's why he's hanging out with Rose. You should have someone who will protect you and you should have someone who's not going to ruin you. Gar won't do that. If you want him. It's up to you at the end of the day but Jason doesn't want to be a reason you don't choose Gar if that's what you want to do. It's your choice, but Jason doesn't want to be a reason for your choice.

"Nothing, man. We're just friends, that's all." Jason answers honestly. You are just friends but he bites down his feelings for you. "She gets me, ya know?" Jason keeps talking, trying to convince himself more than he is Gar. "And she was there last week so it's just different with her. But, there's nothing going on. I'm hanging out with Rose anyway." Jason gives Gar the fakest smirk he's ever had. "You should talk to her about it though." Jason chuckles. "She'll kill you if she thinks we're fighting over like a fucking price."

"It's not like that." Gar groans. "I'm the one who told you that!"

Jason laughs. "Yeah, but it's true." Jason defends. "She looks like she might bite me if I try anything with her."

Gar lets out a laugh. "Yeah, she does kind of look like she'd punch you." You absolutely do not look like you'd bite him or punch him if Jason tried anything, but Gar decides to agree with him anyway.

"Exactly, so if you wanna go for it, you should. Even though she just burned you." Jason sucks in a breath. "You're good together and you seem to make her happy."

"Thanks, Jason." Gar lets out a sigh. "What about your cape?"

"We're not using my cape, actually." Jason states. "But, if it's fireproof, maybe it's resident against chemicals. It's zylon so it should be. Bruce has access to the best materials and my cape is no different. It took blasts from that fucking lightbulb like it was nothing. Didn't even feel warm." Jason says as if he's bragging about it. "What if I call Bruce? See if he can get gloves or some shit? Test 'em out, just until her nightmares stop. She can still sleep with you and you won't get burned."

Gar's eyes are slightly narrowed as if expecting Jason to be up to something. This is most Jason has said all week. "That's nice of you." Gar keeps his eyes narrowed before he goes back to his wound. "Do you think Bruce will help?"

Jason shrugs. "Probably," Jason watches Gar before going to one of the cabinets and grabbing the petroleum jelly and a non-stick bandage. "Here." Jason hands them over as Gar gets the last piece of fabric. "Wash it first."

"Yeah...I know." Gar says slowly. "Who are you and what have you done with Jason?"

Jason laughs. "What?"

"You're being really nice right now and it's weird." Gar's eyeing Jason with suspicion and confusion. He’s never seen Jason this helpful before.

Jason shrugs. "Look, you guys have been there for me so I owe you guys." Jason says with a shrug of his shoulders. "You're my best friends."

Gar smiles softly. "Thank you, Jason."

"Don't mention it." Jason smiles. "You should check on her when you're done. I'll keep her in my room to make sure she doesn't lose it."

"I will, thanks." Gar nods and Jason leaves.

Jason heads back to his room and he feels a little better with talking with Gar. They had the conversation Jason didn't think they'd ever have or even needed to. But, it's out in the open now and he can't take any of it back. And he knows that he was able to help, at least a little bit.

Jason finds you sitting at the edge of his bed with tears still staining your cheeks. Jason sighs and sits next to you. You’ve been sitting and staring at the wall with a heavy chest. You’ve been thinking about how much you’re supposed to be able to handle before you finally snap. Something is bound to happen sooner or later and that will just be it. You’re dreading it and you’re terrified of what it'll be and how many more people you'll end up hurting because of it.

"He's fine." Jason assures you.

"I burned him so I know that's fucking bullshit." You huff with a scratchy voice.

"Yeah, like he's gotta fucked up burn but he's fine. He's not mad at you or anything."

"I don't believe--"

"He's fucking fine." Jason cuts you off. "I didn't tell him you knew, either. Don't beat yourself up for it, alright?"

"I deserve to though."

"No, you don't." Jason shakes his head. "Look, okay, he fucking cares about you and he likes you so just...let him." Jason nods his head and you turn your head slowly to look at him, wiping your cheeks.

"W-what?"

"Like, I said, you deserve for someone to take care of you." Jason swallows thickly before furrowing his brows. "Let him and stop beating yourself up for it." You shake your head. "You like him, don't you?" Jason lets out a scoff.

You pause and maybe that should tell you all you need to know about the two boys. Even with it being complicated, the question isn't. It's a simple yes or no question that you do have the answer to. But, you find yourself pausing anyway because it doesn't feel that simple. Jason is the one always telling you you like Gar and you agree with him. It's always been easier agreeing with him because it's true, than it is to have to admit anything else that comes tied with that. Admitting it fully, right now with this conversation, is closing the door on you and Jason. You don't want that door to close on your end, it can close on his, but not on yours. So, you’re willing to have the real conversation.

"Yeah, I do." You nod.

"Okay--"

"Not done." You shake your head. "But...I like--" You pause and you see this look Jason gives you and it's screaming.

It's like you can see him holding his breath, waiting for you to finish the sentence. For that second, you question if you should continue the sentence. Maybe running would be better. Maybe living in a state of what if could be better. And Jason is waiting for you to finish the sentence. He's torn between hoping you tell him you like him, too because despite everything said and done between the two of you, those words have never been said. And he hopes you change pace because if you tell him that you like him, he'll ditch everything he's thought about that and decide it's worth it. He knows he will and that might poison you. So, he's waiting and just a few seconds feels like hours.

And you pivot because you have to run from it. You and Jason could be good and work, it'd be fun and everything you’ve ever wanted. That seems too good to be true though. So, you run.

"Like, I burned him, ya know? And that's..." There's a brokenness that clouds your eye as you steer away from the conversation that should have been. "That's just a lot."

Jason nods and he acts like it doesn't hurt the very center of his heart. "So?" Jason scoffs. "It's always gonna be a lot." Jason shakes his head. "It was an accident. You call me out for shit all the fucking time, take your own fucking advice." Jason states.

You nod your head and the decision is sealed.

You always thought about Jason and Gar. You weigh them and you think about how wrong that is. But, every time you go towards Jason, think about him dying. How much it will hurt when he dies. It's inevitable. You swear it is because Jason is Robin. The Joker will kill him. Or the Riddler. Mr. Freeze. One of them will one day. Deathstroke was luck. But, he won't get that lucky forever and you don't want to be the one with a dead boyfriend. And you don't want to burden him if you’re the one that dies first. Jason's been through too much. And you’re just as reckless. One day, you'll die, too from some stupid decision you made and it'll destroy him. You won't let him be the one to hold that burden of the boyfriend who couldn't save his girlfriend. And you don't want him to ever feel like he should die for you because of your feelings for each other. Deathstroke was proof of that and you can't let him do that. At least as friends and no chance of anything else, maybe he won't die for you. Maybe when the day comes when one of you does die, it won't hurt so much.

And on top of all of that, Jason isn't what you need. You want him. Despite every reason you have to not like him and not want to be with him, you do want him. But, you need Gar and you want Gar. Because Gar is still safe. Gar can handle the world being thrown at him. You have no idea how that boy does it, but he does. And Gar makes you want to make better choices and not be as reckless. You need to learn how to have some self-preservation and Gar can teach you that.

Jason makes you want to burn a city down but Gar makes you want to learn how to put the fire out without destroying yourself. It's not as fun, you swear it's not, but maybe it's better for you. Maybe Gar is better for you even if you’re afraid you'll end up ruining him. Even if you’re worried you'll break his heart one day. Gar is a better option because you’re traumatized and Gar doesn't care about any of it. And he's safe and logical and fun in ways that aren't reckless. There isn't that adrenaline rush with Gar, but you do like him and you think maybe, if you try, you could love him one day. Maybe he'll be fun like Jason with time. Maybe he'll fill those things you like about Jason with time. So, you pick Gar.

"Alright." Jason nods and it's as if there's this silent conversation had between the two of you where you know. You both know how this would be different and you know it hurts the two of you. But, you both stick with it anyway because maybe it is for the best, for everyone.

"Thanks, Jay" You give him a fake but subtle smile.

"Yeah, no problem." Jason clears his throat as he jerks his head towards Gar who's standing in the doorway with a new shirt on. You turn and your heart drops into your stomach.

Gar hasn't heard much of your conversation, just the very end of it. But, the way Jason's looking at you, there was a lot more to that conversation. It's the look of pain and heartbreak on Jason's face that tells Gar he is not going to take Jason's advice. There's something between you and Jason and Gar isn't going to subject himself to it. If you want to, that's awesome but Gar isn't going to make that move.

"I'm going to train." Jason stands up.

"Jay." You groan.

"I'm up anyway, might as well." Jason forces a grin to his face before leaving before either of you can stop him.

"Hey." Gar greets, keeping his distance.

"I'm...I-I'm so sorry." You swallow thickly. "I-I never meant--"

"It's okay." Gar assures you. "I'll be fine." Gar gives you a soft and subtle smile. "Are you okay?"

"Are you?" You flip the question. This isn't about you.

"Yeah, it, uh, it hurts but I'll be okay." Gar moves to sit by you. "I'm sorry I freaked out."

"You should have freaked out. I should have told you." You hang your head. "I, uh, i-it happens sometimes. I-I've never melted anything or anything like that before. I-I don't know what happened but I-I should-should have you."

"Yeah," Gar nods his head. "Yeah, that probably would have been nice to know." Gar lets out a gentle laugh. "It would have happened anyway though. It's okay."

You shake your head. "It's all messed up."

"It'll get better." Gar assures you. "I'll heal and you'll get better. The nightmares almost stopped before, they'll stop again."

"You're always so optimistic." You shake your head but there's a smile pulling at your lips.

"Someone has to be. Everyone here has enough negativity." Gar chuckles.

"Thanks for not being mad." You sniffle.

"I can't stay mad at you." Gar laughs and his cheeks start to heat up.

"You're so understanding." You let out a scoff but you have a smile. "Are we okay?"

Gar nods softly. "Of course."

Now is not the time to bring any of this up. It's a fresh wound and in order for it to not feel forced or out of guilt, you want to wait before you have the conversation with Gar. You want a little bit of time to sit with your feelings on the decision. You want to make sure that you picking Gar, isn't an obligation or the wrong choice. If you’re going to pick him you have to be sure. It's not fair to him if you aren't. So, you do not take Jason's advice right now. You offer Gar a sincere smile.

"Want breakfast? I'm wide awake so..." You laugh softly.

"I'll help this time." Gar chuckles. "I'm definitely not going back to bed."

"Well, come on then, Gar." You stand up, sucking up the heaviness in your chest as you stick out your hand to Gar. "Let's get some food." Gar hesitates but just for a second before taking your hand gently in his.

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Dangerous Inquiries (2.ch.6)

After a long girls night with Kory and a couple of drinks both of you fell asleep on your couch. You woke up early in the morning with a terrible hangover and a vague memory of what happened last night. As you tried to piece together your memories from yesterday, you realized that Kory had managed to drag some information out of you about Jason and yourself.

You groaned in pain as you sat up on the couch, your head throbbing from the alcohol. You rubbed your eyes and looked around for your phone to check the time but couldn't find it anywhere. While you were searching for it Kory's phone started to ring. She groaned and reached for her phone which was lying on the coffee table.

"Hello?" she answered sleepily. There was a brief pause before she continued, "Oh hi Dick. Yeah, I'm with Y/n. We were just... chatting." she paused again listening to whatever Dick was saying on the other end. "Yeah, I'll tell you about it later. Okay?" she said before ending the call.

"What did he want?" you asked curiously as Kory put her phone back on the table.

"He was asking if you're good. And some stuff about work." she replied with a yawn. "Oh and he also wanted to know if you're interested in going out for lunch today since it's your day off."

"Oh my! I forgot about the work!" you said realizing that it was already late morning. You stood up from the couch and stretched your tired muscles trying to shake off some of the remaining dizziness caused by alcohol.

"I thought it was your day off when you drunk that much honey. He blew your mind that much huh?" Kory teased with a smirk. Your cheeks flushed red at her comment but you ignored it. She laughed at your reaction before standing up herself.

"You should take a day off girl. We need a good breakfast to literally wake up." she said walking to the kitchen. You followed her into the kitchen where she began preparing breakfast.

"Actually I need to work for a case. I remembered now. Jason said this guy attacked the courthouse was killed." you explained as you helped Kory prepare breakfast.

"So you two were not just making out last night." she commented without looking up from the stove. You blushed even deeper but decided not to respond. Instead you focused on helping her cook breakfast hoping that the heat in your cheeks would fade soon enough. Once breakfast was ready you and Kory sat down at the dining table to eat. The food tasted amazing despite your still aching headache and you found yourself enjoying every bite.

"How can you be so good at that? This is delicious." you complimented her as you took another bite of your omelette.

"Practice, love." she shrugged nonchalantly. "And I love cooking. It's one of my favourite things to do when I need to unwind or relax."

You smiled at her. "Well you're really good at it then."

"Thank you. When will you call them by the way?" she asked between bites.

"I don't think they care honestly. Even when cops bring a murder suspect, they don't care. They just want to get rid of him no matter if he's really guilty or not. They don't like me in there because of how I deal with all that I guess." you sighed remembering how you always fought for your clients and made sure they got a fair trial.

"I'm sorry to hear that. I know you always try your best." Kory said softly reaching across the table to hold your hand. You smiled gratefully at her feeling comforted by her touch. "But if it makes any difference, Dick and me are proud of what you do."

"Thanks Kory. That means a lot." you replied sincerely. After breakfast you helped Kory clean up the kitchen and called work. You explained that you wouldn't be coming in today due to a headache and would work from home instead since you didn't have a trial to attend.

"So... what do we do now?" she asked once everything was cleaned up.

"I have some research to do on this case." you answered. "Maybe we can watch a movie or something after that."

"Sounds good to me." Kory agreed. You grabbed your laptop and started working on the case in your study while Kory went to the living room with a book she chose and started to read it. You were deep in thought about the case when you heard a knock at your door. You heard Kory got up to open it but you didn't pay much attention until she called out your name.

"Y/n! There's someone here to see you." she called out. You stood up and walked towards the door still lost in thought about the case. When you came to the door you saw Jason standing there looking nervous.

"What happened?" you asked him immediately concerned. He looked at you for a moment before speaking.

"Can I come in?" he asked softly. You stepped aside and let him in, closing the door behind him.

"What happened boy?" Kory asked following behind you. Jason glanced at her before looking back at you.

"I might be in trouble." he said simply. "I need your help."

You and Kory exchanged worried glances before turning back to him. "What happened?" you asked gently.

"I..." he hesitated. "They think I murdered that man." he finally admitted.

"What?" you exclaimed in shock.

"Did you do it?" Kory asked bluntly. You could see the concern in her eyes but she wasn't about to let him get away with it if he had done it.

"No Kory." he replied shaking his head. "I didn't do it."

Kory studied his expression for a moment before seeming to relax slightly. "Alright, then what happened?"

"I might be... at the scene of the crime that night." Jason confessed. "But I didn't kill him."

"You were talking about beating him... was it that night?" you asked him your eyes wide with shock. He then looked away embarrassed by his actions. Kory sighed and shook her head.

"Seriously Jay?" she asked him. "You couldn't have just left it at that? You had to go and beat him!"

"I was angry!" he snapped. "He deserved it! But I didn't kill him."

Kory and you exchanged glances again before turning back to him. "Alright." you said slowly. "We believe you. What do you need us to do?"

"Just know that there's a murderer out there. It wasn't me." he said softly.

Kory looked at him for a moment before nodding. "So... you may want to take a week of maybe Y/n. Until we get him. Since you were about to be his lawyer... he might come after you."

"Shit..." you muttered under your breath. "I'll have to cancel my appointments for the week then." you said. Kory nodded in agreement as she glanced at Jason. He looked worried and you could tell he was regretting his actions.

"I'm sorry I got you involved in this." he muttered.

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