#so even when bruce took him in he had trouble straight up thinking of bruce as his dad

[roseworth]

i think cass and duke both have (different) complicated relationships with whether or not they see bruce as their father (or even the bats as their family) but we’re not allowed to talk about that bc people would just use it as another excuse to exclude them

[dcxdpdabbles]

DC x DP: Dog Walker

Danny needs someone to walk his dog.

He had been in Gotham for about five months when it became apparent he needed companionship.

Ever since Clockwork and Frostbite came to the same decision to move Danny to a new universe for his health- his core was deteriorating due to his obsession being fulfilled as Amity Park was safe, and everyone was ready to grow up and move on.

So Danny moved to a rough city in a harsh universe so that the danger could help his core restart his obsession.

The first few weeks were fine; he even found work as a computer program designer that allowed him to work from home thanks to his universe's advanced technology, but soon, he struggled with loneliness and homesickness—that was where his dog came into the picture.

He adopted Equinox- Nox for short- from the local shelter, and while Nox was a mutt with unknown parents, Danny had no trouble taking care of him.

That was until he accepted a job offer at Wayne Enterprise, and his work hours shifted from remote work seven days a week to four days. He wasn't stimulating Equinox properly by keeping him inside the three days he was out and his poor boy was suffering from it.

This could have easily be solved with a pet sitter or just a dog walker but this is Gotham. Danny knows he picked this place for its constant danger to keep his obsession active but he just wasn't expecting Gotham to be so...much.

He had a panic attack just thinking about what would happened to Nox if he trusted just anyone to take care of him.

Nox is the only living being that is under his Protection. It went against his very Instincts to not find someone he trusted utterly to walk him.

Danny checks his phone to see Nox peaceful sleeping in his doggy bed and sighs. His boy has been sleeping more and more lately, losing his bright spark.

"Whats wrong Danny?" Karla, one of the Office interns, asks from where she is walking along side him.

"Nothing, it's just my dog needs to go for a walk, and I'm not there to give him one." He says, turning the screen. "I wish I can have some one walk hin for me-"

"Understood. I shall pick up your dog tomorrow, Fenton," a tiny voice cuts in. The two turn around only to look down at the green eyes of Damian Wayne. His bosses' son and brother. Oh boy.

"Ugh, I'm sorry?" He blinks as the youngest, Wayne thrusts a piece of paper at him. Danny has no choice but to hesitantly takes the paper. On it is a professional if short resume belonging to Damian that highlights his skillset and community service.

"Father has informed me of the family tradition started by our Pennyworth. Every Wayne gets a part-time job from twelve to grow character." The boy says, hands behind him and back straight, appearing every bit his status. Also, it is like a little kid trying to appear as an adult. Danny found it kind of cute, and it reminded him of Jazz. "I have multiple experiences with animals, as you can see from volunteering at the local shelters. My fees for my services are also meager and would surely not be difficult to cover."

Danny's core turned cold, but not in the wrong way. It was a cooling sensation he had associated with a fun day of either a snowball fight or the fresh first fall. He knew he could trust the boy.

"You know what? Yeah I love it if you walked my dog. In fact would you be interested in being a dog sitter?"

The boy's green eyes brightened with childish glee, but he tried to remain serious. Danny's heart melted at the sight. Oh, he should call Jazz soon. "That would be most acceptable."

Unknown to Danny, Karla, or Damian, Dick Grayson watched the trio as his brother handed one of the most mysterious employees a resume. Now, why would Fenton want to be close to Damian?

Over the last few months, people have been trying to take advantage of Damian because they thought his brother stupid for his mixed blood, just as they did when Bruce first took him in.

Danny doesn't mind Alfred's rule to find a part-time job to help teach them values, but he finds people aren't as kind as they should be. He'll have to keep an eye on this Danny Fenton.

Maybe he can help co-sit his dog.

[warmilikeit]

Yandere Batfam x Camp half-blood (Neglected reader)

DC x Pjo

Part 11

______________________________

"Okay, I can't take it anymore, why the hell does everyone get gloomy every time we're at the manor? Everyone seems fine at duty?" Duke places his cutlery down, his tone nervous yet determined to find out what's wrong with his family

He noticed.

Of course he did, after he lost his whole life, he was given to Bruce, and he loved them, they loved him too, they were kind, understanding, and they were all he needed after everything

That wasn't the same for them, They were empty, only rare moments where they relish in happy moments

Did he ruin it? Did he do something? Or was the feeling of never truly being accepted is just because he's new? Does a certain test have to happen?

Worst part, Duke can't even complain, they showered him with love, and he tried too, he plans activities, though they always comply it doesn't help, he feels as if there's this void he can't seem to fill

What can he do to make his family well?

Is this because of that child?

(Name) Wayne?

He couldn't meet (Name), for they were already gone, when he first met Batman, when he first met the family, he didn't see anything wrong, no grieving, he thought it was odd, but it has been a year, no... Bruce would never forget a child, let alone his

Would he?

Then he saw, Duke thought he would try to make his family feel better, by asking questions about (Name), maybe recalling happy memories about that child would cheer them up

But they couldn't speak, Tim who is usually chatty would quiet down and keep to himself, Steph who would never make Duke feel lonely stepped away when asked

He saw no pictures, he heard no stories, He noticed no child.

His family, his new family couldn't have neglected and god forbid forgot a child?

The same one who took him in?

The same one he found peace with?

He knew the answer was right In front of him, Bruce often, though he cares about his kids, Duke knows Bruce is more of Batman than Bruce, And Batman loves his duty more than his kids

He knew the entire family put each other on second, Dick with the titans, Tim with young justice, Oracle with Birds of prey, this family puts family on second, but it doesn't mean they don't care

It sometimes makes Duke wonder if he'll find people that will push him to put the Wayne's second

Could it be, that everyone was so engrossed in their own lives, in their duty, their second make shift family, that they forgot about the first? that they forgot someone needed them, (Name) needed them

He knows they failed, and he's scared they might fail him too

Duke inhales and exhales, his eyes straight to Bruce "How long are you going to let your guilt eat you? You made a choice to pick your duty over your kid, so stand by it" he says

Duke knows they hurt someone, The Waynes hurt someone very vulnerable, but he can't bring himself to hate his family, they're the only one he has

Duke can't wait for the time he meets another family, maybe then he can let go of the Waynes

______________________________

"oh fuck we are so in trouble" you yell as a bunch of hippocampi swim further and further away from the camp

The harpies screech, and Mr. D- looks disappointed, as he's being held back by Hermes, you begin to think what would happen if Hermes lets go of his grip on Mr. D's arm

Percy shuts his eyes tight as he hugs his hippocampus "Thank you dad..." He whispered

Poseidon sending the hippocampi meant his father believed in him, that his father believed that he should be the one to save camp

And it made Percy believe he was enough, that he was strong

Despite the negligence Percy and the rest of the camp suffered, small moments that make the Gods show they care is enough for them

It made you wonder if your father had done the same, if he ignores you for months but pops in to check on you from time to time

Would you have stayed?

Would that have been enough for you?

Seeing as you hold on to the fact Aphrodite called you her favorite, you fear that you would have

______________________________

Duke knows the people he loves did something wrong, but because he loves them he can't bring himself to hate them, he waits to love another person more than he loves his family to leave

@ghostdoodlen @ratchetprime211 @delias-stuff @sadslasher13 @ellaprime7 @wpdarlingpan @mountvesuvu @chinxinsomnia @nathaly36 @vanessa-boo @bat1212 @ceramic-raven @sweetconnoisseurgardener @dhanyasri @bella-wolf100 @shortnsweetsposts @roseapov @d3sperate-enuf @d3kstar

[mxtantrights]

Hello, blessings. I'm not sure if you take requests about Jason Todd, and I would like to make one where the reader has been a friend of Jason practically all her life. They both lived on the streets of Gotham City, but when Jason left with Bruce and tried to take her with him, she refused and continued living on the streets. However, Jason always looked out for her.

Until Jason dies, and when he returns, he sees that she has a "family", but it wasn't something that could be called that.

What do you think would happen?

growing up with Jason todd is probably a lot of fun but a totally a headache. I mean stealing is one thing, you gotta eat and you gotta survive. But stealing the hubcaps to the bat mobile? yeah, Jason was asking for trouble.

before Bruce took Jason in, you two were inseparable. You did everything together. You slept in shady places, you shared food, you traded stories about your childhoods, or lack thereof.

things changed slightly when Bruce took in Jason. You and him obviously couldn't steal anymore, or crash in vacant places. If you wanted to eat Jason would offer to take you out to eat. If you weren't sure where you were sleeping, Jason offered a bad for you in the manor.

It felt weird to you. So you stopped asking for things and in turn told Jason to stop giving you handouts. Jason made you promise that you would try to get not he straight and narrow and that was the deal.

You knew that if you ever ran into trouble Jason would be there. Like when your shifty landlord wanted to kick you out because he wanted to raise the rent. Suddenly, your landlord changed his tune and said he would accept whatever money you could give for rent. You knew it was Jason but you decided to keep it to yourself.

It goes on like this for years. Someone gives you a hard time, you say it in passing to Jason, and the problem is solved. You feel like a bad friend for only being a taker in the relationship but Jason reminds you time after time that he's happy to do it.

Then Jason dies. And you have to make a difficult choice. To go back to the way you were before, not falling the rules, living day by day on chance and luck. Or follow through on what Jason wanted for you.

It takes a couple of months. But you decide through your grief that you'll keep your deal with Jason even if he's not alive. You feel like you're only half alive though.

That's how you end up in a relationship with a scumbag. To be fair it didn't start that way. It was nice in the beginning. Flowers, chocolates, dates and planned outings. But then things just started to decline.

And you didn't really want to get out of it. You felt like you rigged a hole for yourself and wouldn't let yourself out of it. Why would you? It's not like you had someone who cared for you. Yes Bruce checked in on you every once in a while but he had other things to worry about, other kids, other robins.

It's not until you're three years into this toxic relationship that one day you're single. All the scumbag leaves for you is a note telling you not to call, and that you won't see each other again. It reminds you of Jason solving you problems but you know its' not him.

You try to hold onto the feeling but it's pretty fleeting. Living in a world without Jason Todd is horrible.

One night, when you're at an old spot you used to crash in with Jason, drinking away the feelings you meet him. Red hood. You had heard of the power shift he created in Gotham. So many people told you he was scary to be around but he didn't seem like it.

When Red hood takes off his mask you almost lose your shit.

[igotanidea]

Single parent struggles : father!Dick Grayson x mother!reader

THAT!!! PICTURE!!!!!

summary/request: single Father Dick Grayson x single Mother reader? Where at some kids birthday party also can the kids be between the ages of like 3 and 4.

A/N: writing this was just so cute and heartwarming and pleasant and fluffy. I think this is going to be my new verse, so if anyone ever get any ideas in that - please ask me to write more UwU <3

***

„Thomas, please stop running around!” Y/N laughed happily when her 4 year old son slipped on the floor and run into her legs. She was quick enough to catch him, before he actually landed on his bottom and started crying.

“Sorry mum!” he grinned with the cutest smile there was, and not paying much attention to his mother’s admonishment regained his balance and followed the friends that he was chasing. “Wait for me!” he yelled before disappearing.

Her son was invited to a birthday party of his kindergarten friend, and obviously, she happened to be a tag along. Helping with the service and acting as a supervisor.  Not that  she complained. Being a single parent was rewarding, but also happened to be her bread and butter and she didn’t have many occasion to go out the house and spend time with actual adult outside of work. Sure, she loved Thomas with all her heart and never regretted the decision of having him, even when his failure of a father took off running the second he found out about the pregnancy, but sometimes she was just tired. And having an opportunity to hang out and relax and watch her son being so happy around other kids were simply heartwarming. Thomas shed too many tears and experienced sadness asking about the other parent and Y/N swore, that to the maximum of her  abilities, she would protect him from that pain.

“God….” she muttered to herself, gathering the fruit bowl from the counter. “I swear the kids never get tired……” her son’s energy was exhausting, but the serene expression in her eyes were showing the truth feelings behind the sigh. Lost in her own thoughts Y/N turned around not noticing the man standing right behind her, bumping straight into the sculpted chest, immediately being caught by two strong arms, the bowl serving as some sort of airbag.

“I know, right?” the man let out a laugh still holding onto her “I’m dealing with the same problem with my daughter. Don’t know who said that girls are quieter and more polite than boys but it does not apply in this case.”

“Hello Richard.” Y/N tilted her head “didn’t see you around for a while.”

Richard Grayson, more often than not called “Dick” was the treat for all the mothers. Handsome, well-build, kind with charming, boyish attitude and most importantly, single father. Rumor has it that the mother had some mental problems and one day escaped the hospital where she and the daughter were getting some treatment and observation, took the kid and left it on the threshold of Dick’s house before disappearing herself. Despite Dick’s attempt to locate her (and boy, that man definitely had the resources, being the son of the Bruce Wayne) he never succeeded, giving up after some time.

And that gave the soccer mothers plenty of opportunities to get him involved in all possible kids’ activities. Kindergarten play? Picnic? Cinema sally? Birthday party? He was pretty much everywhere. Much to all the husbands’ displeasure.

But, since both he and Y/N were the only single parent and  the subjects of many rumors that gave them the opportunity to get close and become really good friends. After all, there’s no one better to understand the struggles of raising a kid alone.

“Yeah….” He scratched his head awkwardly, letting go of her arm “I’ve been running after Abby, making sure she does not get in any troubles. But it seems like the fire is fought for a moment and I can finally catch a breath. “

“Really?” Y/N mocked putting the bowl away, crossing arms over her chest “guess the apple does not fall far from the tree, right? Abby takes a lot after you.”

“Are you calling me a troublemaker?” Dick caught his chest and his eyes widened in a fake shock. “Me?”

“Yes.” She teased “Aren’t you?”

“Maybe a bit” he muttered taking a step forward. This made Y/N take a step back and in no time she was trapped between the kitchen counter and his body. “But there’s one more thing me and Abby have in common.”

“And what may that be, Mr. Grayson?” she raised an eyebrow, observing his face carefully and impatiently awaiting the answer.

“We both happen to like the member of the l/n family.” He smirked, grabbing her waist and pulling her towards him closing the distance between them.  Her hands found a way towards his neck, locking around it and bringing his lips down for a kiss. It’s been a while since they had any opportunity to be alone, and they were not going to miss it. Even if that meant making out in a messy kitchen in someone else’s house, hiding from their kids. They were acting like teenagers, sneaking around and trying to keep their relationship a secret. And despite the fact that they were both adults this courtship was gentle, careful, soft. They have been hurt before and the cautiousness was making them both take it slow.

But obviously it didn’t mean that there was no passion between them when Dick grabbed onto her tighter, wanting her closer, his hands travelling around her back, sneaking under her shirt, craving to feel her skin, but still keeping the slow, loving pace.

“Behave….” She mumbled into the kiss, but not really stopping him. “Someone can see us…..”

“Oh, please…” he fought the urge to roll his eyes, moving to brush her cheek, jaw and neck in the teasing attempt to make her whine for him  “you can’t keep your hands to yourself either.” The bastard was right since her fingers were playing with his hair, pulling lightly.

“I can stop….” She started withdrawing her hands but he was quick to grab her wrist keeping it in place.

“Don’t.” his soft whispers and touches were literally making her melt. “I missed you, Y/n. I missed this…. us……” God, how she loved his attention, even when he pulled back and stopped kissing her, instead looking her straight in the eyes. “I .... wish to have more of you just for myself…..”

“I know. I feel the same.”  She smiled and her eyes glistened. Before she met him, after Thomas’s father left, she didn’t believe she could find love again. But life can be surprising and even if they haven’t really said the L word to each other,now she was trapped in the arms of a man who did love her with the undying passion and with whom she felt save and taken care of us as never before. And every time they stole a kiss or a secret touch or just talked or spent time together she felt like crying because of that warm feeling inside her chest and belly. This time was no different as  few tears rolled down her cheeks.

“Crying again?” Dick cupped her face, brushing those drops away with his thumb “don’t cry on my account princess.” He brushed his nose over hers, forehead meeting forehead, eyes closing, breathing each other in.

“How can I not?” she sighed deeply, unable to hold back everything he was making her feel. “Dick, I….”

“I know, baby. Trust me, I know.” he planted a chaste kiss on her forehead, rocking her gently to the sound of music coming from the garden causing her to smile again.  

He knew.

He knew the heartbreak, the pain, the unanswered question why. He’s been through it all. And it was not his intention to play around with Y/n’s emotions and feelings or to hurt her. Ever. Not with everything she’s been through.

“I’m not like him…..” he whispered, almost inaudibly and she had to swallow the lump in her throat.

“How long do you think since one of the mums start looking for you to move the chairs or ask for another stupid favor?”

“Y/N Y/L/N. Are you jealous?”

“And what if I am?” she twirled a strand of hair on her finger, eyes fixed on his.

“Well, than I’m flattered, but you have no reason for that, baby.” His hands intertwined with hers, caressing tenderly “I lo…..” he almost said it. Almost.

“Daddy?” a quiet, girl’s voice cut him off and it took massive amount of energy to muffle the annoyed groan. Of course it was kids who interrupted him.

“Yes, sweetheart?” he pulled back

“I cut my finger….” Abby pouted, her gaze switching between her father and Y/N. “what are you doing?”

“We were just getting some fruits for you.” the older girl smiled “I’m gonna go and let your father take care of you, little one. See you around, Richard.” She moved away from him and with one final lingering secret brush of hands left him, still aching for her, not able to ever get enough of her presence.

“Daddy?” Abby asked again once Y/N was out of sight.

“Yes?”

“Do you like Thomas’s mum?”

“Do you?”

“She’s nice and pretty. And gives the best hugs. “ the girl frowned, thinking deeply “so yes, I think I like her.”

“That’s good to know.” Dick smiled pecking the top of Abby’s head.  He was not going to let this woman out of his life and his daughter’s acceptance was very important for the future purposes.

[slut4thebroken]

Chapter four: Proof

── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

Pairing | Arkham Knight/Jason Todd × Bruce's daughter!reader

Summary | Jason won’t believe you no matter what you say so you decide to find proof.

Warnings | Angst, so much angst, but also fluffy moments here and there, Jay needs a hug, he’s doing his best.

Words | 2.8k

Notes | I didn’t add any smut to the beginning of the chapter sorry guys😔 I’m probably going to add more at the end of the fic tho

Ao3 link | <3

Fic Masterlist

Main Masterlist

Chapter three

A few hours later you were laying with your head on his lap as you both read a book, the news playing faintly on the tv. You jolted up when you heard it. 

“We’re coming to you live just minutes after the explosion at Wayne Manor, following the dramatic unmasking of billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne as Batman.” You stared at the screen in shock listening to her explain what happened. “It was reported that Wayne and another man were inside at the time of the explosion, the whereabouts of his daughter are still unknown. Though no bodies have been recovered on the scene yet, officials highly doubt that anyone made it out alive.” Even though you didn’t want to believe it, they were broadcasting live footage of the manor on fire, the entire front part in pieces on the ground. 

“No…” You said quietly, still staring at the screen in shock. “No, that- that doesn’t make sense.” The tv went black, but you couldn’t bring yourself to look away from it. You felt Jason’s hand on your shoulder and distantly heard him calling your name, but you kept your eyes on the empty screen. 

“I have to… I need to find him.” You said through a breath, standing up and walking to the bedroom to get dressed. You felt numb. You still didn’t believe this was true and honestly you don’t think you can handle it if it is. An arm on your bicep turned you around and you were met with the sight of Jason, brows furrowed, asking you where you’re going. 

“I have to find him.” 

“Sweetheart…” 

“No! No. This can’t happen, he wouldn’t let this happen.” You said, pulling away from him to change clothes. 

“Call him.” 

“I don’t have my fucking phone.” You snapped, immediately regretting speaking to him like that. 

“I know.” He held out a phone and you stared at it with furrowed brows. Why is he letting you do this? After he went through all the trouble of not letting you contact him. Instead of questioning him, you took the phone in shaky hands and dialed his number. It went straight to voicemail, so you tried again. Then the house phone. Then the bat phone that he barely even uses. Then Dick. 

“Who is this?” 

“Dick?” 

“Oh my god you’re okay. Bruce said you were taken.”

“No I- I’m fine.” Did he not tell him about Jason? “Have you seen the news?”

“Not yet, why?” 

“There was an explosion. At the manor. My dad and Alfred were inside.” He was quiet for a moment and you held your breath as you waited. 

“Shit. Are they okay?” 

“It- it said they think they’re dead. Dick, did he tell you about anything he had planned? Where he would go- anything?” 

“No… But I mean, he revealed his identity, it’s not surprising someone would do this.” 

“No- He’s not- they’re not dead. He wouldn’t be that stupid, it has to be some kind of staged thing. And plus they haven’t even found any bodies yet.” He said your name softly and you knew he was about to make you feel delusional. Just like he did with Jason. 

“Don’t fucking call me crazy again because I was right last time.” You hissed, practically shaking from all the emotions you were feeling. 

“What? What do you mean you were right?” You glanced at Jason. Your dad really didn’t tell him... Why wouldn’t he tell him? 

“Jason… He’s- he’s not dead.” He was silent for so long, you almost thought he hung up. 

“What the hell are you talking about?” He said lowly. 

“He’s alive. He was the one who took me.”

“You’re with him right now?” You glanced at him again, finding his jaw clenched as he stared at the wall next to you. 

“Yes.” Once again, the prolonged silence made you think he hung up, but you just waited anxiously for his response.

“Is he okay?” He finally asked, voice just barely shaking. You stared at Jason, debating how to respond. 

“He will be. Please help me, Dick. You know him- he wouldn’t let himself get blown up, he’s not that careless.” You begged and he let out a heavy sigh. 

“Let me call some people. I’ll let you know if I find anything.” 

“Thank you.” 

“Of course. And- will you just… tell him I miss him? And I’m sorry for giving up on him so easily.” 

“I will.” He hung up and you slowly lowered the phone from your ear, watching Jason turn back to face you. “He misses you.” You handed him the phone and he rolled his eyes as he put it back in his pocket. 

“I’m sure he’s plenty happy with his new baby brother.” He scoffed, walking back into the living room. You trailed after him, sitting next to him on the couch. 

“You should go see him.” You said softly. 

“I’m good.” He picked up his book, trying to ignore you. 

“Even if you don’t consider them your family anymore, they’re still my family. You can’t avoid them forever.” He looked over his book at you with narrowed eyes. 

“Watch me.” He spat, then focused on the page again. 

“Jay, I’m serious.” 

“So am I.” He fired back. You sighed and looked away from him- you don’t want to argue about this right now, not while you’re so worried about your dad and Alfred and…

“Oh my god…” You muttered, suddenly remembering. “Oh my god, Blue.” 

“What?”

“Blue-”

“That thing is still alive? It was ancient when you stole it.”

“I don’t know if he’s still alive, that's why I’m freaking out.” You gritted, even though his response almost made you laugh. “And I did not steal him. It was the cat distribution system.” 

“Okay, princess.” 

“And he’s not an ‘it.’” 

God you hoped he was okay. Especially after he lost Jason too, he deserves to know he’s still alive. As your thoughts moved back to Jason, you thought of another idea. 

“Do you still have your… Arkham Knight resources?” This time when he looked over his book at you, it was with curiosity. 

“Bruce pretty much took all of it down but I still have some.”

“Can you- Will you help me?” You asked nervously. When he didn’t respond immediately, you continued. “Not for him. For me. Please, Jason.” Lowering the book, he sighed and looked away from you as he clenched his jaw. 

“Fine. For you.” He muttered, making the corners of your lips turn up. He went to his room, closing the door behind him, and you waited anxiously. It only took a few minutes before he was walking back out. 

“I have someone looking into something, but honestly it doesn’t seem very promising.” He said, sitting back down next to you on the couch. 

“Thank you, Jay.” You gave him a small smile and kissed his cheek, making him blush. “What would I do without you?”

“Probably die in an explosion since you would’ve gone home.” Your smile turned into a frown and you could see the exact moment when he realized what he said. “…Too soon?” He asked nervously. 

“It happened like 20 minutes ago so yeah- too soon.” You glared at him, but when he gave you a sheepish smile, your expression softened. 

“Noted.” Instead of letting you reply, he scooped you up and placed you on his lap, hugging you from the side. “I’m sure he’s okay. You’re right, he’s not that careless.” He said, rubbing a hand up and down your leg to soothe you. As a comfortable silence filled the room, you kept repeating the reporter’s words in your head. 

“Wait… How did they know he’s Batman?” You leaned back enough to see his face as you stared at him with furrowed brows. 

“Scarecrow gave him an ultimatum.” He shrugged eyes not meeting your own. “This time he actually chose to save Robin.” He added bitterly. You mulled his words over in your head. You want to help him get over this, but how do you reverse months of emotional manipulation? 

“If you think that, then you also think that I didn’t choose to save you.” That made him scoff. 

“No I don’t.” 

“Well, he stopped looking after I stopped. So I guess that means I’m worse than him.” You shrugged. 

“Stop. I know what you’re trying to do and it’s not going to work.” 

“I don’t even think you really understand what I’m trying to do, Jay.”

“You’re trying to manipulate me! You’re trying to feed me the same lies he fed you.” You almost thought he was about to throw you off his lap to the floor because of how angry he sounded. You were silent for a moment, debating how to respond. 

“You really think I’d do that to you?” You asked quietly, staring into eyes that wouldn’t meet your own. 

“He’s your fucking dad, why wouldn’t you?” He spat. Ouch... It’s understandable that he’s hurt and angry, but it still hurt knowing he thought of you like that. 

“Got it.” You whispered. Should you get off his lap? He’s still holding you though... Should you leave the room? Change the subject? “I would’ve thought that out of everyone, you’d trust me the most to tell you the truth.” 

“I’m not- That’s not it. I'm sure you’re telling me what you think is true but that doesn’t change the fact that he lied to you.” 

“He didn’t though!” This back and forth was getting really old. “You know what? I’ll prove it to you.” You got off his lap and walked to his room again to change into your clothes. 

“What the fuck are you talking about?” He sighed, trailing after you. 

“I’m gonna go watch the damn video myself. It’s on the batcomputer and there’s another entrance to the batcave besides the one in the manor. So I’m gonna go watch it, then we’ll know.” 

“Are you crazy? You can’t go there.” 

“Why not? They already blew it up, I doubt they’ll do it again.” You sat on the edge of the bed as you put your shoes on. 

“You’re not going.” He said, crossing his arms over his chest. You stopped tying your shoe and looked up at him.  

“Excuse me?” 

“It’s too dangerous. You’re not going there.” He shrugged and you clenched your jaw. 

“You know what, Jason? Fuck you. Do you think I want to watch a video of the love of my life being tortured and murdered? I’m doing it for you.” 

“For me?” He scoffed, frowning at you. 

“Yes! Because whatever Joker said to fuck with your mind is still affecting you and no matter what I say, you won’t believe me.” You finished tying your shoes, then stood up, walking to the front door, but Jason grabbed your bicep and turned you around. 

“You said you weren’t going to keep me here forever.” 

“I’m not.” He sighed. “I’m going with you.” Even though he more than likely meant to protect you, it gave you a sliver of hope when he agreed to go. Maybe that means he’s going to be more open minded about all this. 

One long, silent drive later and you were entering the batcave. Everything pretty much looked intact- at least no one’s found this yet. You sat down in front of the computer, Jason standing behind you with his arms crossed, scowling. 

“Would’ve been somewhere he wouldn’t think I’d look…” You muttered, running through the options in your head. After a few minutes of trying a couple things, Jason sighed. 

“Can you just admit that you were wrong and this was a waste of time?” You ignored him, continuing to try and guess the password for a locked folder. After the fifth guess, the login screen was replaced with a dark, blurry screen. This has to be it, but now that it’s right in front of you, you’re having second thoughts about watching it. You shouldn’t show Jason either, that’s messed up on so many levels. You can just convince him another way. 

“This was stupid,”

“Play it.” He demanded, staring blankly at the screen with a clenched jaw. 

“Jason…”

“Play it.”

You took a deep breath and, with a shaky hand, pressed play. It opened with Jason, exhausted and broken, the J mark somewhat fresh on his cheek. 

“Have you got something to tell the nice man, Jason?” The sound of Joker's voice made you sick to your stomach. 

“My name.. is Jason Todd.” 

“Who do you hate?”

“Batman.” He only hesitated for a moment, but with the way he said it, you knew he was telling the truth. 

“Excellent.” The video zoomed out suddenly, showing him sitting in a chair, not even restrained. “Of course you do.” Joker rounded the camera and leaned down so only his face was in the frame. At the sight of him, you just felt blinding rage. You could barely even hear the video because you could only concentrate on him. The loud gunshot, followed by Jason being flung backwards, snapped you out of it though. He laid there, not moving or breathing, until the screen went black again and the video ended. 

You sat there, holding your breath and staring at the blank screen, building up the courage to turn around. When you did, you found him still staring at the screen, brows furrowed in confusion as his bottom lip trembled. Then he started shaking his head. 

“That doesn’t make sense. He already replaced me months before that. I saw the picture.”

“Tim helped look for you.” You said quietly, worried you’d set him off. “Honestly, part of me thinks that the whole reason my dad recruited him in the first place was to have more help.” You debated adding this next part. “And are you sure that’s how long it was? Or is that just what he told you.” 

“No… That's not- it’s a trick. Or he edited it or something.” 

“That didn’t happen to you?” You could tell just by his face that it did. 

“I don’t understand.” He muttered, brows furrowing even more. 

“Joker lied to you. He manipulated you. Is that really so hard to believe?” You tried to put the explanation right in front of him, but he still couldn’t see it. 

“But, he-“ 

“No, Jay. Just answer this. Would Joker lie to you?” He nodded. “Would I?” He was frozen, just staring at you. “I know you need more time and I’m not trying to force you back into the family right now, but”

“No.” He said, significantly harsher. “If Bruce was the cause of everything, then I can still get revenge. But if it was Joker… that’s it. I can’t kill him, I can’t do anything.” His voice started shaking and he glanced away from you. 

“Jay…” You stood and cupped his cheek, your thumb brushing over the marred skin that you’ve slightly gotten used to by now. You wanted to tell him that he doesn’t need revenge to get closure, but other than slowly just getting over it, the only way you would be able to get closure was if the Joker died from something worse than a fucking disease. 

“I felt the same way. I wanted to kill him myself for what he did to you and the fact that he just died from a disease feels like mercy. Do you want to know the one thing that helped me start to get over it?” He just barely nodded. 

“Don’t laugh at me for sounding cheesy, but.. love. Getting you back, feeling whole again, just made revenge seem less important. That’s what family does. They make you feel whole again and I can tell you that right now, our family is still missing something and I know you are too.”

“I can’t go back. Not after everything.” He whispered, biting his bottom lip when it started trembling again. 

“You came back to me.” You said softly. 

“That’s different. I didn’t try to kill you.” 

“Jay, I think if I can forgive you trying to kill my dad, then the others will forgive you just fine. They all miss you a lot.”

“I- I don’t…”

“Just start small. We can get lunch or something with Dick, so you can work your way up to it.” You suggested, carefully monitoring his expression so you don’t push him too far. 

“I’ll think about it.” He said quietly and you gave him a small smile. This was the best case scenario- him saying anything other than no. You pulled him into a hug, standing on your toes so he’d be more comfortable, then used one hand to run your fingers through his hair like you used to. 

“You don’t have to be alone anymore. I’m here now, and I know everyone else will be too, if you let them.” You said softly, making his grip tighten around your body as he kept this head in the crook of your neck. 

Chapter five

Tag list

@igotanidea @clairacassidy @phoenixgurl030 @halleest @emmerskiri @randomgurl2326 @darkmercury

[awhitehead17]

Battling Nightmares

TimKon, Hurt and Comfort, Fluff, Cuddles, Idiots in love, Literal Sleeping together.

A/N: This has been inspired by this post from @timdrakebrainworms I read it and wanted to put it into a story, I hope they don't mind!

Enjoy! :D

Blinking into the darkness, Kon frowns and wonders what’s going on. As his mind is fogged up with sleep, nothing registers for a long moment. The clock on his bedside table tells him it’s two in the morning, and considering how tired Kon has been recently he’s confused to what could have woken him up at such an hour.

A soft sound reaches his ears, and while it’s tempting to fall back to sleep, he wouldn’t have woken up without a reason and going back to sleep wasn't an option until he worked out what was wrong. He props himself up on his arms and glances around the dark room, finding nothing amiss he stares into the darkness, perhaps if he concentrates he’ll be able to hear that sound again.  

The sound comes again and this time Kon catches it. It’s a soft whisper coming from outside his bedroom. It was so soft that even with his super hearing Kon would’ve had trouble picking up on it, however because Kon’s so tuned in on the person whose whisper it was, he’s not surprised he heard it.

Without thinking Kon jumps out of bed and rushes across the room to the door, any lingering sleepiness is now gone and has been replaced by worry and adrenaline. He throws open his door and darts across the hall straight into the opposite room. He slows down enough to shut the door and immediately heads to the bed where his best friend sits hunched over hugging his  knees to his chest with his head ducked down resting on them.

Crouching down by the mattress Kon sighs softly, his heart feels heavy inside his chest as he looks at Tim. This isn’t new. The nightmares. Every night without fail for the last two weeks Tim’s woken up during the night due to the terrors that haunt his sleeping mind.

At the end of the first week it got bad enough to the point where Tim refused to even go to bed, and then continued to refuse for nearly four days. It took Kon, Dick, Bruce and even Ma Kent - not mentioning his complete exhaustion – to convince Tim to go to bed and sleep.

For the last week, Kon coming to Tim after he wakes from a nightmare has become routine. Once Kon drilled it into Tim’s head that he wanted Tim to call out for him when he woke, Tim had done so and each and every time Kon’s been willing to comfort his best friend after the ordeal.

Tonight is no different.

“Tim.” Kon calls out softly. He doesn't want to accidently startle Tim, that never ends well. “Hey it’s okay, I’m here. I heard you.”

“Kon.” Tim’s voice comes out muffled from where his face is buried in his knees.

Now knowing Tim’s acknowledged his presence, he gently grasps his leg. “Yeah I’m here. What do you need?”

Over the last week Kon’s come to learn Tim wants different things depending on how he’s feeling after waking up. Sometimes it’s cuddles, he just wants a solid hold around him and someone by his side as he recovers. Sometimes it’s no touch at all and just quiet company in the room. Other times he wants to be distracted and they end up playing video games or watching a film.

“Cuddles.”

Kon nods and starts getting situated on Tim’s bed next to him. Stretching out and getting comfortable, Kon reaches over and pulls Tim into his side, he sweeps his hand up and down Tim’s back in a motion of comfort. His best friend stays curled up but he leans into Kon. He knows from experience it’ll take some time for Tim to calm down and relax against him.

As time goes by, Tim slowly relaxes. It’s surprisingly comfortable to hold Tim against him, Kon wishes it was different circumstances and hates how Tim is constantly plagued by nightmares after what had happened weeks ago.

Once Tim is relaxed against him, stretched out with his arms wrapped around Kon’s waist and his head resting on Kon’s shoulder, Kon breaks the silence between them, “how are you feeling? Would you like to talk about it?”

Again these questions are part of the routine and often have different answers. Sometimes Tim will speak up about it, other times he won’t.

This time Tim doesn’t want to. He shakes his head and lets out a long resigned sigh. Kon accepts the answer, forcing Tim to talk won’t achieve anything other than aggression of some sort, and ducks his head to press a kiss to Tim's hair.

“Okay. Do you want to try and go back to sleep, it’s still early.”

Tim groans, “I don’t think I can.”

Kon smiles weakly at the almost whine. Under different circumstances it would have been both adorable and amusing. Using one hand he strokes his fingers through Tim’s hair, the other now stays still on Tim’s back keeping him pressed close to Kon.

“Well, I think you can. I’m here now, I’ll keep the nightmares away.”

“Gonna fight them off like you do bad guys and robots?” Tim asks, his tone now lightening up.

Kon gives Tim a squeeze.  “Yup. They aren’t getting past me!”

Tim snorts and smacks Kon at the ridiculousness of it. As laughable as the concept may be Kon managed to lighten Tim’s mood – even if only for a moment – so he’ll take it.

Tim sighs and settles against Kon again and Kon mimics the action and relaxes deeper into the mattress beneath him. He presses another kiss to Tim’s head and readjusts the covers around them. “C’mon, we can get another hour or two before dawn breaks.”

Kon’s promise reins true as Tim doesn't have another nightmare that night. They wake up together and Kon checks in with Tim, they talk for an hour before emerging from the bedroom to join their teammates for breakfast. No one comments on how they come out of the room looking suggestively sleep rumpled, like everything else about the situation it’s become normal for Kon to stay in Tim’s room when he has a nightmare, the rest of the team are use to it by now.

That night Kon tries something different. After Tim calls it a night, looking displeased with the decision, Kon decides to follow him. He says his goodnights to the team who all weirdly roll their eyes at him, and heads for his bedroom. He goes through his nightly routine however instead of getting into his own bed he traipses across the hall and enters Tim’s room.

Standing in the middle of the room Kon finds Tim scowling at the bed, clearly unhappy about going to sleep. After a moment of no movement Kon speaks up, grinning at the way Tim startles. “Are you planning to sleep standing up or are you going to use the bed?”

Tim glares at him for a second before dropping the look. He runs a hand through his hair and looks despondent. “I hate this,” Tim says, “just knowing I’ll wake up in a few hours terrified out of my mind. Finding myself again completely at mercy-”

Before he could say anything more Kon steps up to him and puts his hands firmly on Tim’s shoulders. “Hey. If you keep thinking about it before you go to sleep it’s all your mind will focus on. I know it’s hard but things will get better, they’ll stop soon.”

Tim shakes his head and Kon’s heart breaks at the expression on his face. Kon pulls Tim in for a tight hug. “I was thinking what if I joined you in bed now? We can sleep together and I can keep my promise of fighting the nightmares away. Only if you want too of course.”

Pulling out of the hug Tim looks uncertain. “Are you sure? I don’t want to keep you awake all night with my tossing and turning.”

Kon rolls his eyes and pushes Tim to the bed, he forces him under the covers and quickly joins him. “Dude, you say that like I’ve never slept next to you before. We’ve been doing an awful lot of bed sharing these last couple of weeks. I’ll be fine. I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

Tim stares at him for a moment before nodding accepting it. He smiles shyly. “Thanks. I do actually sleep better next to you.”

Unable to help himself Kon presses a kiss to his hair before moving to turn off the bedside lamp. The room plunges into darkness and Kon gathers Tim close as they both settle down for the night.

It becomes a thing. In the weeks following, Kon now spends the entire night with Tim instead of just half when Tim calls out for him. Unfortunately Kon loses some battles against the nightmares because Tim still has them even when sleeping next to Kon, but his presence undeniably helps.

Whenever they’re at the tower, at the manor or at the farm they just share a bed. It feels so natural to sleep together now, it doesn't even occur to them anymore to not share a bed. The only time they sleep apart is they’re in separate locations or on missions.

Two months after the ordeal Tim’s nightmares have mostly come to a stop, they still occur maybe once a week or in ten days if he’s lucky. Even after the nightmares stopped they continued bed sharing, again because it felt right and comfortable to do so.

Three months after the ordeal Kon and Tim officially get together as a couple in a romantic relationship. In the months they have been bed sharing, Kon’s gotten to know Tim in a completely new way which is saying something considering how well he knew Tim before everything happened.

He had always felt deeper affection for Tim with him being his best friend, but in the nights he spent lying next to the guy, Kon discovered the affection ran much deeper than he realised, and most definitely in a different way. It turns out his feelings were reciprocated.

After a particularly bad night Tim ended up confessing his feelings for Kon, at first Kon hadn’t believed him, thinking it was stress and an emotional release from the nightmare, however the following day Tim made it perfectly clear it wasn't a false confession. From there they went from best friends to boyfriends. A rather incredible upgrade Kon would say.

They kept quiet about their relationship for a little while before announcing it to the team. It wasn’t so much they were worried about what their friends would think but rather they wanted to explore the romantic side of their relationship before sharing it.

When they announced it to the team, with everyone gathered in the media room, everyone ended up with a confused expression on their face. It turns out they were confused for a different reason than what he and Tim were expecting.

“You’re saying you only got together a couple weeks ago?” Cassie stares mystified at them like they had grown another head each.

Kon shares a look with Tim. “Uh yeah… what do you… this is not the reaction I was expecting.”

“So you guys haven’t been dating for years! You’ve only just got together?”

Tim gawks at her. “Wait what? What do you mean?”

“Dudes,” Bart drawls at them while munching on pretzels, “we all thought you were already dating! And had been dating for years! We figured you didn’t want any fuss about coming out so you just didn’t.”

Both Kon and Tim were shocked into silence by that little revelation.

“Kon is so touchy feely with Tim unlike anyone else, ever, and Tim the prickly cactus he is, allows it all to happen.” Bart carries on talking.

Cassie jumps in with her own comment. “Don’t forget about all the bed sharing and cuddling. Like none of that is platonic. Granted we never heard you guys going at it, we just thought you were incredibly discrete, or it’s because of Tim’s insane soundproofing he has.”

Kon feels his face heat up and when he glances at Tim he finds his boyfriend impersonating a tomato rather accurately.

“Well we weren’t dating,” Kon tells him unable to meet anyone’s eyes, “but now we are. So…” he waves a hand around as his sentence trails off. He doesn’t know what to do with this situation anymore and would rather it end.

Thankfully Vic becomes his saviour because he calls out, “now the oblivious lovebirds are done, are we doing this or what?”

That breaks the room up and everyone settles down to watch the screen. Kon lets out a breath and turns to find Tim staring at him, looking embarrassed but relieved. He smiles at Kon and Kon’s instant reaction is to smile back.

“Oi!”

The shouts makes them both jump and it’s only then Kon realises they had been staring at one another like lovestruck fools.

“If you’re gonna make out you have bedrooms for that particular activity, otherwise sit your asses down and enjoy the movie.”

While making out with Tim sounds awesome, and hot as hell, he takes Tim’s hand and guides him to a free space on the couch where they settle down together and get involved with the team bonding. No one cares they’re together romantically and Kon is pleased to continue going forward surrounded by his friends and with an amazing, strong, boyfriend at his side.  

[maybeagoodwriter]

Marvel Characters Gender and Sexuality Headcanons (Part 1).

Characters: Thor Odinson, Steve Rogers, Bruce Banner, Tony Stark, Clint Barton, Natasha Romanoff.

Bonus Characters: Loki Laufeyson, James Rhodes.

Author's Note: I hope you like this! It took me a few days to be happy with on top of going on a two-day trip. Sorry for the wait!

Thor Odinson.

Thor is cisgender and uses he/him pronouns. He isn't labeled when it comes to sexuality, though. He's attracted to all genders but finds labels a little suffocating and hindering. Nobody labels their gender or sexuality on Asgard, so he doesn't see it as necessary. He doesn't often have romantic experiences with men, though, as they're usually intimated by him or denying their attraction to him to protect their own fragile masculinity.

Steve Rogers.

Steve is cisgender and uses he/him pronouns. He is bisexual, something that really had no label back in the 1940's. He just knew that he had a crush on the guy who worked at the corner store and the young nurse at the hospital. He tried hiding it from everybody, scared for his own safety, but his mom and Bucky eventually found out, both being extremely supportive. He was glad his mom knew before her passing, though.

Bruce Banner.

Bruce is non-binary and uses he/they pronouns with no preferences between the two sets of pronouns. He's never felt like he fit into one specific box, instead being somewhere in the middle when it comes to gender. Hulk, on the other hand, is strictly male but supportive of Bruce when they're not arguing with each other. Bruce doesn't often tell people about the nuances of his gender. It's a very personal thing to him and he'd rather only tell the trusted people in his life. He is also openly pansexual and demi-sexual, though he's too shy and nervous to flirt most times.

Tony Stark.

Tony is cisgender and uses he/him pronouns. He experimented with gender when he was in college, making sure to keep it far away from the press, but eventually decided that he's perfectly fine with what he's got going on already. Tony, like Bruce, is also pansexual. He messed around with guys when he was in high school and college but didn't admit to himself that he found them attractive until decades later, a few years before he became Iron Man.

Clint Barton.

Clint is cisgender and uses he/they pronouns. Unlike Bruce, he prefers he/him over they/them but identifies with both. He didn't really think of gender until after he met Laura and started learning more about himself. He still doesn't care very much. Clint is straight but has kissed a few guys before, mainly on bets or dares. He didn't hate it but wouldn't do it for fun either. He never went pass making out with guys before and doesn't care to, especially not when he has Laura.

Natasha Romanoff.

Natasha doesn't really have a set gender, though she does use she/her and they/them. Growing up in The Red Room didn't lend itself for very many learning experiences. They only thought about her own gender when Clint told her about his discoveries about himself and their gender. They, like Clint, doesn't really care. She'll tell people if they ask but won't if they don't. Natasha is bisexual. They prefer women over men due to her trauma surrounding intimacy with men but won't deny herself a relationship with a man they truly love, even if it takes a bit more work in her mandated therapy sessions.

Loki Laufeyson.

Loki is openly genderfluid, his pronouns changing by the day, week, or even month. They refuse to date someone who won't accept them just the way they are, at least when it comes to gender and sexuality. Loki is also bisexual. She doesn't care if the person he loves is male, female, or somewhere in the middle, as long as they're cute and able to get into some trouble.

James "Rhodey" Rhodes.

Rhodey is cisgender and uses he/him pronouns. Back in college, he experimented with gender a few times, sometimes even wearing a dress to some lectures to get attention off of Tony whenever he was wearing eyeliner or a slightly more feminine outfit. He knows without a doubt, though, that he prefers more stereotypical masculine outfits. Rhodey is straight, too. He probably kissed a guy once when drunk, maybe it was even Tony, but it's not really his thing.

[piedpiperart]

Marked for Death pt 1

With Ao3 down I wanted to put my current fic somewhere for you guys to read, so here’s part one of Marked for death! A fic where Tim gets de-aged Case Closed style!

Ao3 link

Chapter one!

Tim wasn’t looking for trouble. 

This time. 

He had been walking home from Steph’s house, an impromptu study session for their classes because Steph needed help with Chemistry and Tim needed help with English. It’d been his worst grade up until Steph started dragging him to study sessions. Since then, it was admittedly, still his worst subject, but his grades were higher. Bitterly, Tim couldn’t help but want to ask Jason for help on his upcoming essay. He knew the former Robin was the best at literature, if only they’d met before.. before.

Coming up around the street, Tim scuffed his foot against the gravel, sending a few pebbles down the sidewalk. He wasn’t looking forward to coming home to his empty house at Drake Manor. With his parents still in Ghana, he was all alone at the house. Hopefully, they’d be back tomorrow morning like they said they would, but Tim wasn’t optimistic. Even so, he told Bruce he’d be spending the next two weeks with his parents, so he probably wouldn’t be able to patrol as Robin. 

He’d have to remember to text Dick later too, otherwise Nightwing would show up. Tim knew Dick and Bruce were still upset with eachother over Jason, so he’d been trying to mend their relationship with all three of them on patrol. It was going well so far, but Tim didn’t want to have to rework his plans if Dick and Bruce had an arguement when he wasn’t there. Tim sighed, mentally preparing himself for a week or so of staying in his room. Though, he figured he could catch up on some casework.

Suddenly, he started to hear muffled yelling coming from an alley ahead. Tim tensed, stepping back into the shadows of a building. Feeling the burn of curiosity, Tim's footsteps were light and silent as he creeped closer. 

“We jus’ need the bat outta the way,”One guy was saying. His voice was harsh- probably a smoker, Tim thought- and terse with frustration. “Yeh, a distraction. Jus’ ta’ Keep ‘im outta Park Row.”

Seemed like the guy was alone, talking on the phone. Tim gripped his backpack straps as he neared the entrance of the alley, getting as close as he dared. He wondered absently if he should have made for the rooftops to overhear this, but he shrugged it off. There didn’t seem to be any kind of danger, just one guy on his phone. Sure, he was saying pretty concerning things, but Tim was confident he could take him if the guy discovered him. Though, it was doubtful with how the guy was stomping about the alley, pacing back and forth. Tim didn’t need to be nearly as stealthy over the loud voice and footsteps.  

Tim puzzled on why this guy would want Batman out of the picture though His best guess was some sort of trade or  distribution going on in Crime Alley. Considering the guy called it Park Row, Tim was pretty sure he wasn’t from Gotham, and the slight accent leaned towards Japanese. Easing closer, he could peer around the wall and caught a glimpse of all black clothing. 

“Jus’ make it happen,” The guy continued, gritting his teeth. He looked frustrated. “It’s bad enough I’m stuck waitin’ on-” 

Tim froze, processing the possibility of another person coming to meet with the man in black when he was suddenly struck from behind. What felt like a giant rock collided with the back of his skull, making Tim’s vision black out almost immediately. He didn’t even realize he’d fallen until his face was pressed against the harsh gravel. 

Tim groaned, hearing muffled voices and strained to pay attention. Just who the heck were these guys who could sneak up on Robin, he winced. Trying to move was futile, given his limbs felt all fuzzy. He couldn’t think straight, and it took so much effort for Tim to curl his fingers, much less lift his arm. Squinting his eyes open- when had he closed them?-  he could make out another guy with longer hair in the same black clothing as the first guy. Both wearing fancier clothing than common thugs in Crime Alley, for sure. Tim thought absently that they kind of looked ridiculous in all black. 

The teen felt them pawing through his pockets, one pulling out his wallet and phone. Tim’s heart raced, and he tried to focus on moving, getting up, anything, but his body wouldn’t cooperate. He shouldn’t have been so cocky, should have gone straight home. Batman would be so disappointed in him if he knew Tim was snuck up on by one guy with a… was that a pipe? Ouch. Well, if Tim didn’t die today, Bruce would probably kill him. 

 There was a moment before one of them cursed. “This is fuckin’ Tim Drake, Boss,”The first guy hissed, and Tim decided that guys sunglasses made him look really, really stupid this late at night. Sunglasses then pulled out a gun, only to tuck it back after the other one stepped closer, saying something in a low voice that Tim’s aching head didn’t catch. He hoped he wasn’t going to get shot. Bruce would probably start spiraling again if he lost another robin, so Tim had to do everything he could to stay alive. He dug his fingers into the rocks below him, trying his hardest to lever himself up, but he couldn’t manage to lift himself off the ground. What was wrong with him, Tim thought desperately. 

“No, we can’t draw attention to ourselves now, especially with the deal going down this week,”The second guy was arguing. “Batman could be around here and a gunshot would only draw attention.”

Tim missed the second part as he’d tried to shift, only for a spike of pain to shoot through his head. He wasn’t sure if he’d passed out, but the next time he opened his eyes there was a strong hand gripping his hair, about to hoist his head up. 

“-organization’s latest poison. It won’t even show up on autopsies,”The second guy, the one with the long hair, said with a smirk in his voice. Tim could barely process what that meant, but froze when he realized what was about to happen. Was he about to die? Tim thought wildly. He tried to struggle, but the concussion and the grip on his hair prevented him from doing anything more than panic. “It hasn’t been tested on humans yet, but let’s consider this a trial run.”

Dread filled Tim as a hand came into his blurry vision and he tried to jerk away. The boss held firm though, managing to shove what was probably a pill down Tim’s throat and pouring what tasted like alcohol down his throat to get him to swallow it. Tim sputtered, the drink burning on the way down as he inadvertently swallowed the poison. He felt stupid, helpless, and weak as he ran over all his bat training, now virtually useless after a measly blow to the head. Now he couldn’t even think, could only feel the burn in his throat, panic in his chest and pain in his head. 

Satisfied that Tim had swallowed the poison, the kid was dropped unceremoniously to the ground, his cheeks digging into the gravel. Tim groaned, feeling his body grow hotter and mind foggier as the seconds passed by. He barely recognized the crunch of gravel as the two made their getaway, not even staying to wait and see his demise. Tim could only hope that the so-called experimental poison wouldn’t work. They’d said trial runs, right? So maybe he had a chance, he tried to tell himself. Nevermind the burning sensation traveling throughout his body, dread building in his stomach. 

They’d taken his phone, for all the help that would have been, since Tim could barely move his fingers anyways. He gripped the gravel beneath him as his body soon got hotter. He probably had a fever, Tim winced. He bit back a whine at a feeling that he could only describe as his bones melting. Zero out of ten, worst poison experience ever, Tim grimaced, tasting blood in his mouth. Must have bitten his tongue, Tim reasoned, but he couldn’t really feel anything over the white hot pain. He couldn’t do anything but hold on, body tense as the burning feeling passed through his body, ramping up until he thought he might pass out. Gasping for breath, Tim barely managed to hold in a scream before everything went dark. 

----

Tim’s thoughts came back like the last bit of syrup out of the bottle, frustratingly slow and sluggish. His body ached and it took effort to breathe evenly. His lungs hurt. Actually, he amended snidely, everything hurt. Tim lay there, breathing in a way Bruce taught him as he ran through everything that happened. If he wasn’t so drained right now he’d probably be feeling more embarrassed about being snuck up on and poisoned, but he couldn’t help but feel relief for not being dead. Well, relief and pain, because he was poisoned. 

Dizzy, Tim managed to pull his head up, wincing at the gravel that dug into his skin. Obviously, the poison didn’t work how those two had thought it would, otherwise Tim wouldn’t be here. Maybe it doesn't work on humans after all? Tim wondered. If they hadn’t tested it on humans yet, surely they had animal trials that succeeded? Tim hoped it wasn’t a long-lasting poison. He wasn’t even sure what this so called poison was supposed to do to him. So far he only felt like all of his muscles and bones were on fire. In all his time as Robin, he’d never felt so much like what comes out of a woodchipper. Tim winced as a street light shone into his eye, bringing stabbing pain to his head, and tried to bring his arms over to pull himself up. Only, his arms weren’t cooperating. 

Tim took a breath, glancing over to see his arms were.. Trapped in his jacket? Puzzled and a little more than panicky, Tim struggled to sit up. Huh. 

No wonder my whole body is so sore, Tim thought, pushing his panic aside in favor of figuring out his next steps. He tried to school his thoughts into logic, but the pain was definitely not helping. He could break down when he was somewhere safe, he reasoned. But for now… he was no doubt trapped in the body of a toddler. 

I shrunk? Tim exclaimed in his head. He wondered how old his body was now, looking down at his smaller body. He sighed, mourning his loss of height. His growth spurt had only just started, he was sure of it, and now he’s the same height as a fire hydrant.. Great. Looking himself over with barely concealed horror, he estimated his age to be between four and seven. Tim wasn’t exactly sure, considering he hadn’t been around many younger kids in his lifetime. He’d go with six for now, but abandoned that thought for more important things.

Regaining a bit of energy, Tim managed to wriggle his way out of his pile of clothes, keeping the shirt and jacket on as best he could. Regretfully, he had to abandon his jeans, considering his sudden change in height, no matter how much he wanted to keep them on. The shoes were a similar issue, but he pulled on his socks up to his knees, wanting to have some protection against the dirty Crime Alley streets. 

Tim stumbled, due to his aches as well as the change in height, down the alley and back to the street, noting the sky showed the sun about to rise. He’d been out there all night then, Tim thought. It was a miracle nothing happened to him. Oh wait, Tim scowled, pouting at his six year old body.

The toddler made his way down the street carefully, trying not to step on anything sharp or wet with his socked feet. He was wearing his boxers as pants, but his shirt and jacket were so big they reached his ankles anyway. It made sneaking around more difficult, but he was not about to give up more of his clothes for maneuverability. He was light on his footsteps, keeping to the shadows so as to not attract any attention. He definitely didn’t want to be seen at this size in Crime Alley at night. He’d die for sure, Tim thought grimmly. There was hardly anyone out this early, but Tim wasn’t going to jinx it. The two men in black could be anywhere around here. 

Tim huffed, pulling the hood of his jacket up. He needed a plan. Due to his time stalking the bats, he was very familiar with the streets. Less so in Crime Alley, but he’d manage. First, Tim figured he’d need clothes that actually fit, shoes especially. Then he needed to find a place to stay during the night. There was no way he’d be able to go out at night anymore, considering his significantly weaker body. He didn’t even have a way to contact Bruce. The two men in black had taken his phone and wallet, meaning no calls for help and no money. Which was another thing he’d need. 

Tim mentally smacked himself for forgetting to check the alley for his phone and wallet. No doubt they’d just been tossed there, but he wasn’t about to turn back now. Tim was tired, sick, sore, and hungry. At this point, he just wanted to find a safe place to take a nap. 

On Tim’s way through the dirty streets, his mind raced with plans. Obviously he couldn’t contact Bruce or go home. If he went home, his parents would find him as a child and that was not happening. Even if they canceled their plane to Gotham, Tim wouldn’t risk it. So no Drake Manor. 

No Wayne Manor either, given that the men in Black no doubt had their eyes on anything related to Tim Drake, and if Batman was suddenly after the men in black, they might connect the dots that Tim is Robin. So, no contacting Bruce, even if the man thinks he’s dead. Which, he definitely should be so Tim didn’t count it as a lie. He’d protect Batman’s identity staying away, at least until he could apprehend the Men in Black. Tim paused, looking towards his tiny hands poking out if his oversized jacket. Until he could give the information to someone else to aprehend the Men in Black, Tim ammended. 

Sunglasses and Long hair were obviously on a mission of some sort from their ‘Organization’, and they had plans later this week in Crime Alley that called for a distraction for Batman. That was second on Tim’s priority list. If he could figure their Organization out, and maybe how long this poison is supposed to last, he’d be able to go back home.

First on Tim’s priority list was obviously food and shelter. It was a good thing Tim had prepared for situations like this. Not this exactly, he amended. He’d created a system that was like a backdoor to his parent’s bank accounts, back when he was teaching himself how to hack. He’d only had to use it a few times when groceries were late and his parents cut off his allowance for snacks. He had to admit, it was a nice safety net, especially if he’d ever been kicked out or stranded somewhere, or maybe if he needed to hire a fake uncle or something. At least now he had a way to get money without much trouble.

Money was covered as soon as he could reach a computer of some sort. Shelter would be another problem, not as easily solved. There wasn’t a way to buy an apartment as a six year old, nor keep up payments on it without his parents noticing. Probably. Tim was confident in his ability to hide away in some abandoned place quietly though. He’d be fine. Once he’d gotten a secure way of getting money, he’d be able to provide food for himself, so that was covered too. Tim sighed, sidestepping a puddle on the sidewalk. He was tired. 

Tim wasn’t too familiar with Crime Alley, considering he and Batman never patrolled there, especially not after that new guy claimed it as his territory. Some guy calling himself Red Hood had recently taken over the Alley, getting rid of a lot of dealers and gangs, making new rules. Tim hadn’t been able to look into it too much before, but maybe he could do some snooping while he was incapacitated. The only thing he knew about Red Hood was that he protected kids, hated the Joker, and had no qualms about killing people who deserved it. Those including pedophiles and crime lords like Black Mask, apparently. 

As he walked, Tim came across a convenience store and silently rushed to the entrance. It looked old, but the sign with hours listed said it opened around ten. Judging by the position of the sun, it was around 5:30 in the morning, give or take. Tim squinted, pulling out part of a lockpick set from his jacket pocket. He always kept something on him, just in case of kidnappings or his urges to snoop. Tim had the convenience store unlocked in seconds. 

Hurrying inside, he missed the pieces of glass littering the ground and hissed when a piece cut into the heel of his left foot. Tim cursed, but stepped carefully to the side, away from what looked like a broken bottle. He didn’t feel so bad for stealing from this place if they just leave broken glass on the floor, he thought with an angry huff. He took a minute to brace himself against the wall and lift his foot up to what little light shone throught the window from the rising sun.

Thankfully, the cut wasn’t too big, and he was able to wrap his sock around it to stem the bleeding and still keep his foot as protected as possible. After that, he made his way to the back room, avoiding the one camera pointed at the register. In the break room, Tim was surprised to find a little girl’s jacket and backpack. Tim silently apologized to the girl as he took both. The jacket would fit him better and he needed some way to carry things while he was on the streets. To his growing luck, he caught sight of rainboots and a pink butterfly umbrella propped up near the backdoor. 

Tim heaved a sigh of relief and went to put on the boots. He didn’t even care that they were pink froggy boots, they’d keep his feet protected and waterproof, even if they were a bit big. Taking his finds, Tim made his way back to the front of the store to pack food in his newly acquired backpack. It was Wonder Woman themed, but with pink instead of the iconic red. 

The boy busied himself with supplies, taking a lighter along with three sandwiches, a first aid kit, two bottles of water and a bag of jerky. He didn’t have time or need for anything else, considering he couldn’t carry much and needed healthy foods while on the streets. He wasn’t sure what he had to do next, but knew that he needed to find out what organization the two men in black are from. If Batman immediately got involved, they might start to suspect that Tim is Robin, so he couldn’t tell B. Even though he really wanted to. This was Tim’s mess and he was going to fix it himself. He’d never forgive himself if he put the rest of them in danger because of his stupid mistake. 

Tim scoffed, pulling the convenience store shut and locking the door again. He was pretty sure no one would find him missing for at least a week. If not more. That depended on whether the guys in black planned on using his phone to pretend to be him, but Tim shrugged off that possibility because it was encrypted. With Red Hood out and his parents visiting in a few days, Bruce had benched him for the rest of the week, which Tim agreed to since he’d been hoping his parents would be home the two weeks they said they would be. 

Tim rolled his eyes, remembering the way Bruce had told him to use the time to catch up on homework and hang out with his parents. Tim knew his parents wouldn’t notice he was missing for months on end, even if they were visiting. Though, Tim was pretty sure they’d postpone their return to Gotham, so that meant at least two weeks before Bruce noticed he was gone. Maybe. The man had been acting weird lately, texting Tim more often about staying at the manor or about how school went. It was… unfamiliar to Tim, but he had to admit it was nice. 

Now that he was thinking about it though, Tim wasn’t sure if Bruce would report him missing if he’d found out. Considering he’d need to tell Tim’s parents and all, and then explain what his relationship to Tim was. Not like he could say “oh yeah I fight crime with him while you’re out of the country” without getting arrested. Probably. So Tim wasn’t entirely sure what Bruce would do, but he hated doing this to Bruce so soon after Jason’s death. It hadn’t even been a year and he was already losing another Robin. Tim just hoped he wouldn’t be gone for too long. 

Tim grunted, pushing himself to climb through a hole in a boarded up door. He’d seen this place before, an old Vietnamese restaurant. It was a small building, but he remembered it from one time he’d had to duck in there with his camera during the start of a particularly nasty turf war. THat had been before he was Robin. The Restaurant was generally left alone due to the infrastructure issues over the years and that it took up residence in between two rival territories. Tim figured it was his best bet considering it was somewhere he could easily get to at this hour on short legs. He didn’t think he could make it two more blocks, much less Bristol with the way his body was aching. 

Stifling a cough as he entered, Tim took in the place, searching for signs of life. Dust covered pretty much the whole area, so it was safe to say he was alone. On weary feet he dragged himself up to one of the booths, doing his best to take a sheet from off the table to wipe down the dust on the booth seat. When that was done he put the backpack on the seat and climbed up, laying his head down on the backpack. 

As he lay there, body aching and in pain, Tim ran through his next steps before he allowed himself to fall asleep. First was money. He needed to get to a library, there was one close by Steph’s house and that wasn’t far, he remembered. Then he could access his money stash without alerting anyone that Tim Drake was alive. On one hand, he couldn’t draw attention to himself as Tim Drake because who knows what the Organization would do to him. On the other he couldn’t catch Bruce’s attention or he’d risk the Organization looking into Batman, potentially connecting the missing Robin to Tim Drake. So, Tim had to play it safe and investigate the Organization with the men in black first. And get some sort of antidote, if there was one. 

After getting money he’d have to buy some clothes that fit him. Then probably find a more permanent place to stay, somehow. After that was done he could work on tracking the men in black and researching that strange poison. No way was it supposed to turn me into a child, he thought. Though he had to admit a child was better than being dead.

Tim sighed, then held in a sneeze as he disturbed some dust. He was glad he didn’t have any allergies. Scrunching himself up, Tim tucked his legs closer to his body and closed his eyes. Before he could stop himself he was drifting off. He just hoped he wouldn’t feel so exhausted and sore when he woke up. 

Chapter two

[fanficshiddles]

The Call Of Fate, Chapter 18

Loki and Jade were laughing as they walked back into base, into the living room. But their laughter died down instantly when they saw the whole team there, as well as Fury.

They both knew straight away that this wasn’t good. Jade’s stomach felt like it was sinking so low, she felt like she was going to be sick and she hadn’t even heard the news yet.

‘Jade…’ Fury sighed and looked genuinely regretful.

‘What is it?’ She asked, her voice shaking a little.

Loki instantly wrapped his arm around her shoulder.

‘I’m sorry… I’ve been told that the wedding is being brought forward.’

Jade was speechless for a moment. ‘How… how soon?’

Fury looked at the team. Natasha then stepped forward. ‘It’s been brought forward to the third of February…’ She said sadly.

‘What? That’s just under a month away, we were supposed to have another four!’ Loki said in disbelief.

Jade felt like her whole world was crumbling away. She didn’t even hear what Loki said, it just sounded like a blur. Her vision even started to go a bit funny. She started to collapse, but Loki caught her and carried her over to the sofa.

‘Jade?’ He called to her a few times, gently cupping her cheeks until she focused her eyes on him more and could hear him properly.

‘A… a month?’ She whimpered, her eyes teared up instantly.

‘I’m afraid so.’ Fury said from the side.

Jade broke down completely. Loki took her back to her room and comforted her as best as he could. She ended up crying herself to sleep, exhausted from it all.

Loki then went back to the others, they were all in Fury’s office talking about options. Not that there was any.

‘There has to be something.’ Bruce said.

‘There isn’t. I’ve tried a few things, tried bargaining. Nothing is going to work. We are under their control, if she was to simply go missing we’d be in a lot of trouble. It’s not an option.’ Fury said, knowing what most of the team were thinking.

‘We could all go into hiding with her.’ Clint said.

‘We’ve been through this already.’ Steve said. ‘That would be no life for her, you’ve seen how happy she is performing, it would be the end of it. Besides, we can’t leave Earth undefended.’

‘Steve’s right. If we all ran away, any glimmer of hope of her continuing to perform on stage would be taken away.’ Natasha said. ‘And the world would be left open for attacks with us all gone.’

‘So… What are we going to do? We can’t just let this happen.’ Thor said.

‘There is nothing we can do… We will just need to support her the best we can, including after the wedding. We will still be able to visit her, she will need all the support she can get.’ Fury said.

Loki had said nothing at all, just sat in the back listening. But he got up abruptly and stormed out of the room, his heart broken for her.

Thor’s heart was broken too for his brother. He had never seen him so happy with someone, so in love…

‘It’s not just Jade that will need our support.’ Thor said sadly.

‘No, it’s not. Loki is going to be broken when she leaves.’ Clint said.

‘We also need to make sure he doesn’t do anything stupid.’ Wanda said, the team reluctantly agreed. Knowing he could well try and do something that could cause trouble for Jade. Even if he would mean well.

-

Loki found Jade in her room still, she had woken up and was crying again. He got onto the bed with her and lay behind her, his arms wrapped around her.

‘I’m so scared, Loki.’ She said quietly through her tears.

‘Me too, cupcake. Me too.’ He said honestly as he kissed the back of her head. ‘But you’ll get through this, you’re strong. It will be ok.’

Jade turned around in his arms and hugged into him. He knew she just needed to be held, even with no words said. He just comforted her in his arms.

[arcticwolfpaws]

chapter 10: A night with the bat

As always link to my Ao3 and the rest of the chapters

https://archiveofourown.org/works/56481082/chapters/150854434

P.O.V: Batman

After I made sure Faraj was in bed tucked in and asleep I headed down to the bat cave. Alfred and Jason was waiting for me and Jason spoke first.

“Bruce I-” I cut him off.

“I don’t blame you, What happened today wasn’t your fault.” while my tone was firm I didn’t want to leave any room for Jason to doubt me on that, Faraj couldn’t be monitored 24/7 and he seemed to be alright at least mostly… Jason looked down and after a long moment he took a deep breathe before he spoke again,

“I-” He paused trying to collect his thoughts before he nodded. “I think the reason they snuck up on him might have been my fault.” He stated his head down I frowned, not sure what to think however one way or another I knew fully well that Jason wouldn’t have done so intentionally and there was a high likely hood he was beating himself up over it, I turned and set my hand on his shoulder his gaze on the floor, he flinched as I touched him and my heart ached for him but I spoke in a calm even tone doing my best to show I didn’t hold him at fault.

“Jason, I know you I know that without a doubt you gave him those to help not to cause more problems with him. You had the best intention at heart. However I would like to know why you handed him ear plugs.” it seemed to take him a moment as he took a deep breathe trying his best to keep his thoughts straight,

“During lunch I watched as he walked in with that kid he was talking to at the Gala, he looked suddenly sick and he and the kid left when they didn’t come back for around five minutes, I went looking for him and found the two of them in the bathroom, Faraj was under the sinks and The kid… I think his name was Tim, told me he thought it was a noise problem. So I went to my locker and get him my ear plugs.” Jason’s statement caught my attention, I’d have to do some research on Tim drake I wanted to make sure Faraj wasn’t hanging out with any trouble makers, and I’d have to see about giving some kind of permission from the school so he can use a head set or something. I smiled softly before shaking my head.

“It wasn’t your fault.” I told him again, “Things happen and even if the ear plugs were why he didn’t hear them, I don’t think he would have had enough time to get away.” I was firm and he sighed looking down before nodding his head slowly, I wasn’t sure he believed me at first but when he headed to the Bat-mobile he seemed like he was handling it alright. I followed him slowly I glanced back at Alfred wanting to ask him to keep an eye on Faraj.

“No need to worry sir tonight I’ll be keeping a close eye on him, and I’ll ensure he doesn't end up needing medical attention.” He stated I gave him a soft nod as he walked off and headed back up to the manor, I stepped into the bat-mobile and looked at Jason, I sighed internally I normally wouldn’t do this as Jason was to impulsive. “Jason, I need to speak to Slade I want you to patrol the city and call me if something happeneds, Do not engage.” my tone was firm and the young man paused for a long moment before nodding before sliding into the drivers seat, I really wasn’t sure about letting him drive however I let him go. Turning back to the zata tube, I was quick to set it to take me to black gate. I stepped into the blue light and found myself at black gate causing several people to jump. I only payed enough attention to ensure I knew them, as the guard step forward from his post I made a mental note of who he was, Jackson Mcclain age 30, retired military Marine, he spoke pulling me from my thoughts.

“Batman, You normally give us some warning.” He stated and I grunted as I started walking past him he walked with me as I did, “Is there something you need?” He asked, I paused and spoke calmly,

“I need to speak to Slade. alone.” I stated pointedly the man paused for a long moment,

“Yes, Sir I’ll make sure you remain undisturbed.” He stated pointedly, as he followed me unlocking the doors as we went once I was in front of his cell he walked away allowing me to Speak to Slade.

“Slade.” My voice was little more then a low rumble but he didn’t speak, I wasn’t surprised but I knew how to make him talk. “What do you know about an Albino boy named Faraj?” I watched as Slade tensed slowly turning to look at me before he speaking in a harsh tone

“how do you know about him?” I could hear the under ton of protective anger in his voice, and for a moment I thought about telling him the truth however that seemed like a bad idea seeing as if he broke out he could come looking for Faraj and I didn’t need to scar the poor child more then he already was,

“A friend located him, he’s safe.” His eye narrowed at me, I would have been surprised if he hadn’t left Faraj in Gotham and more then anything I was hopping to find some insight into Faraj himself but I knew I had to be careful about it.

“And why are you telling me this?” He asked me, slowly crossing his arms as he leaned against the far wall his eye focused on me,

“I need to know if the boy is a threat” he scoffed at that,

“A threat?” He repeated then shook his head. we both knew that one wrong word would give the other to much information but he let out a huff it was almost like a laugh as he waved me off. “Batman, he’s a child what threat could he pose? You think I’d train someone so young? You might see me as a monster but I’m not inhuman.” He stated but I knew better then to take him at his word, “And even if the boy was, He’s to soft he wouldn’t hurt anyone.” He stated and there I had my answer. If he had been trained he had to gentle a nature to kill or Slade simply had never gotten the chance to let him try, that was good and if he wasn’t trained… my mind went back to that had happened tonight, that would make much more sense.

“Anything else you care to share? Allargies? Favorite food?” I asked I realized how strange it might have sounded but if I was going to care for him I would rather know more about him and maybe just maybe he’ll slip up and tell me more then he intended. Slade just raised a brow at me and stayed quiet for a long moment before speaking slowly as if he didn’t trust me.

“I never found anything he’s allergic to.” He paused for a long moment before speaking again however his tone was softer now, “The boy likes fruit, a lot… “ Another pause as he trailed off seemingly lost in thought for a moment. “He doesn't like loud noises, they scare him and sometime it hurts him easier then most.” As I had suspected, I’d have to see what I could do about that.

“What else?” I asked and he frowned at me clearly about done with this conversation, however he did choose to speak again,

“He likes to draw, and he’s smart likes chemistry, beyond that pick up a damn book on Albinism I’d do you some good.” I knew what he was getting at, and I realized that was likely the reason that Slade had avoided training him. I was about to ask something else but decided not to, it was likely already that he’d realized that I was caring for the boy now, I left still pondering on what I would do for Faraj, and what I could set up to make him more comfortable, it had been something I had done to Jason but right now I need to get back and maybe talk to Alfred and see if Faraj needed medical care.

🦇🦇🦇🦇🦇🦇🦇🦇🦇

The computer announced my return to the cave, I glanced at the file open on the bat-computer and sighed softly shaking my head as I kept walking I changed quickly not wanting Faraj to see me in the bat suite. Once I had changed I headed up to the manor stepping out of my office I found the house quiet I wasn’t surprised by it but it was just as easy to picture a younger Dick jumping and bouncing around me as I walked to Faraj’s room, Alfred was standing out side the door when I got there and I raised a brow as I spoke in a soft voice,

“Is he?” I trailed off and he gave me a momentary soft smile as he spoke,

“He’s fine, Sleeping soundly unlike his father.” I rolled my eyes at the playful jab,

“Gotham needs me.” I stated and the look he gave me was sharp but he opened the door letting me see the Albino asleep in his bed.

“Gotham may need the batman but don’t forget that your son needs you, however you’re son is handling it fine, and seems to be sleeping.” He stated it was more pointed this time a reminder that I couldn’t just forget about the boy like I had almost done to Dick when I first became his Ward. I ran a hand through my hair and paused to think.

“I’ll see about spending tomorrow with him,” I stated and Alfred raised a brow before shaking his head,

“Sir he has school and you have several important meeting… perhaps you should take him to the movies? Get to know the boy, he isn’t like Dick or Jason if you want him to open up he needs time to see you aren’t a threat.” He stated and I sighed again he was right as he often was Faraj while he was drugged and been very talkative but as time had gone on and the drugs have worn off he had become quite reserved. I reached over and closed the door as I started to walk away with Alfred following,

“I did get a chance to talk to Slade, the best that I can tell his training is basic just self defense,” I started and Alfred was quick to cut in when I paused.

“Allergies? Favorite foods?” I smiled at him glad he was not only willing but almost intent to ensure that Faraj was properly taken care of.

“Well to start his comments on fruit weren’t a lie, And Slade was unaware of any active allergies.” I told him, the older man nodded clearly thinking for a moment, “That reminds me, when you have the chance he Slade stated that the liked to draw.” I knew I didn’t need to say anything else, Alfred would ensure Faraj had access to whatever he wanted when it came to art supplies, I smiled at the thought of his childish drawing attached to the fridge, I decided that if he gave me any I would put them in my office.

“Actually I think it might be a good outlite for him, Can you look in to art classes?” I asked when I glanced back to him I saw his blue eyes warm and clearly pleased,

“Of course Sir. And I’ll ensure you can join him.” I was about to argue but he had already walked away, I paused thinking wondering if maybe he was right

[stoptellinglieslois]

Love fair Act 35

Vampire fanfiction Clark Kent human x Richard Grayson vampire no capes or tights but fangs and might.

Richard pov

We made it to Thor's place it was a beautiful tower in a private property two hours away from Gotham close to a big lake. I believe it is not where Thor usually stays.

Alfred drove us there it was cold out and the snow still is kicking our ass. It would pelt down non-stop.

We walked towards the tower as the door automatically opened for us a man led us in. Me and Clark wonder in the tower Alfred stayed behind in the car it wasn't far I wasn't waiting for a room full of vampires and I also see Jason sitting in the front row among them two chairs are at the front of the room.

"Please sit down the both of you usually I would be sitting in the front but I wanted to hear what your Clark had to say." Thor's voice carried I couldn't see him he didn't make himself visible to me the stone walls and the teal decor with cool colours made this room more formal.

Until I noticed him and Tim. Tim tied up in a chain by the neck like a dog. At least he is wearing clothes or more like rags.

I watched them for a moment and Thor motioned for us to sit down. I looked where Jason was sitting with a frown on his face, I didn't know what to expect I don't ever go to these types of things like trials.

We sit and I feel the whole room shift. "We are here as a clan to witness what crime is done on your Grace has been committed by Tim." Tim never looked away from where me and Clark are sitting as Thor kept talking about the gravity of these crimes that are clan is here to help the human race not feed off of them like cattle.

Blue eyes pierce mine I didn't understand this but at this moment I realised that Tim didn't like me, And at this moment I know now he hasn't like me for a very very long time.

"I wish to hear from Clark." Thor said watching us intently he had a gaze as if he understood what I was thinking about and he wanted me to listen instead he read my mind like a book.

"My name is Clark Kent." Clark got up his seat and the vampires in the room laughed at him for being so not like us and just getting up formally introducing himself like he was in school, He also insisted in dressing himself in a suit I didn't own anything that would fit Clark but Bruce did.

Clark wasn't a hundred percent right in the head right now but he wanted to look professional I didn't know why maybe it was just him, He wanted to make a good impression I also didn't know why he thought that I indulged him in going into Bruce's closet and finding what he needed to make a first impression to a bunch of vampires.

"Sit down teacher you're not on trial but this fool is." Thor jingled the chain on Tim's neck I don't know why when Thor doing that triggers Clark he sat down fast on his seat never looking in Tim's direction. "I am here because the reason why he's in chains by your feet is because I mentioned he is consuming human blood he blames me for being in this position right." Clark explained crossing his leg looking straight ahead not looking in anyone's direction.

"He got himself in trouble not you teacher." Thor assured him.

"I panic though everything about him made me back away from him, His true nature came out in front of you and the werewolf's in that room I didn't mean to get him in trouble fear over took my judgement." Clark said. At this point I felt a shift in Clark he wasn't scared like he was when he first sat down or even enter this place.

"I don't know what to call you." Clark addresses Thor.

"Thor's fine teacher." Thor replied a smile on his face watching us intently.

"Thor you believed me right away when I told you something hidden about him, He did manipulate my mind into rubbish he made me believe Richard was doing awful things to me he didn't know me really." I thought that was weird Clark is in full control of this situation he is a bit demented none the less confident in what he's saying though.

"What do you mean teacher elaborate more on what he didn't know about you." Thor asked. I watched for something in Thor I got the hint Clark is leading this somewhere.

"Well when he entered my mind I entered his I no all of his victims every single one each victim is telling their story as we speak." Thor leaned forward in his chair I guess this is where Clark is leading us.

"I am not sure I am following." Thor asked he wasn't confused he just needed to hear what Clark has to say.

"His victims name A Harvey Dent is his latest victim he's an attorney in Gotham, Tim would go to the bar every Wednesday night frequenting this place. He didn't know Tim was a vampire he didn't know he was being stalk by him he is innocent like any human. He didn't kill him he was lucky to escape him." Clark looked like he is in a trance like state talking about this person who he had never met yet is able to pick apart this man's life.

"You see all of this then."

"He's lying." Tim out of nowhere protested his innocents Thor yanked the chain on his neck hard. "Silence." Thor hissed at Tim who didn't coward away from Thor's venom.

"You nicknamed him two faces you made him crazy like me you would take his blood unwillingly, He didn't want that from you yet you told two tribes you pay them and they came willingly Harvey didn't want that from you." Clark eyes glowed blue his brown eyes gone I am wondering what is going on.

"You underestimated Harvey and he escaped you."

"He is lying."

"He is worse than Thalia and Ghul at least they stuck together being evil but you hate Richard, And I could confess Richard is not evil." Clark went on.

"I thought you were a good descent. I was wrong about you and I was right in backing away from you." Clark accused crossing his arms legs now uncross.

"You made me roll around in the snow like a fool crying in front of my boyfriend." I was shocked when he said the word boyfriend it made all of this more real and this made me happy to no end.

"I never have done those things to you I've only just met you and you're with Richard why would I go after you." Tim felt brave enough to defend his innocents it fell flat on me.

"Don't test me Tim I had to shake this crazy off of me for three months with the help of Richard by my side Harvey has no one to help him fight your madness." Clark grew angry the more Tim talked the more angry he got.

"I am already chained up when you had this episode I wasn't thinking about you at all." Tim said Thor rattled the chains on his neck as he yanked it again.

"I will tell everyone here of all your crimes if you don't stop talking."

"My goodness I would like to hear about them." Thor seemed more on the edge of his seat now wanting Clark to expose more.

I realise Tim was hiding himself from the family for years and it is only now we are getting the full version.

[twilightangel83]

Welp. This is in my brain now. For better or for worse. So here you go.

———

A little while after his conversation with Damian Jason starts standing up for himself. Not physically, but verbally. And if he’s defending someone else too, someone they don’t even know, then that’s just between him and his youngest brother.

“I was just a kid you know.” It’s an off the wall statement made after one of the increasingly more common shared patrols. And is has the rest of the Bat Clan looking at Jason in confusion. Jason, for his part, is standing by his motorcycle, looking down at the helmet he’d just pulled off with a frown.

“What?” And that’s Dick, confused, but prompting. Always wanting to be there when one of their siblings open up.

“I was just a kid,” Jason repeats, looking up from his helmet to frown at them. “I’ve heard about what you lot said about me before I came back, and I’ve heard plenty from all of you now, but before all of this—before The Joker—I was just a kid from a bad home in a bad part of town. I didn’t really care about being a vigilante. No big goal or vengeance planned like Dick Wing had when he became Robin. I was just a kid that wanted his new dad to pay love him. To pay attention to him. And since all his time and focus went into being Batman then the best idea I could think of to get that attention was to become a part of that world.

“So I did. And it worked great! At least until it didn’t.” He looked back at his helmet. “I wasn’t ever a very good Robin. Too much Crime Alley in me I guess. So when an awful guy died on my watch well—” he shrugged and met Batman’s eyes then “It didn’t matter if it was on purpose or not. Because my dad wasn’t interested in listening to my explanation. He was convinced it was a sign I was too violent. Too volatile. So I was benched. I wasn’t good enough to be Robin. Too dark. Too dangerous. Too much of a kid from Crime Alley.”

Batman-no Bruce, the cowl is off and the man looks stricken, but Jason shakes his head sharply.

“Maybe that’s not what you meant it to be. But I was fifteen. That’s how I took it. So when I found out I still had a mother out there—someone who was supposed to love me no matter what— can you really blame me for running off to meet her? Sure it was dumb, but kids do dumb things all the time! Angry and hurt kids especially. So I ran away from home to find her. And was brutally murdered for my troubles. For daring to reach out for the person who *should* have cared about me above all others.” He sighed, placing his helmet ok the handles of his bike. “Just something to keep in mind.”

“What-what brought all this on?” Tim sounded a bit lost, but he seemed better off than Bruce or Dick at least. Jason shrugged.

“Like I said. I’ve heard plenty about the things you and Bruce here said about me while I was gone. And Signal’s never been quiet about what he thought about me. So I figured I’d make sure you had your facts straight. I wasn’t some cautionary tale. Or some jerk rebel who ran off and ignored orders to cause trouble. I was just a kid.”

And with that, he turned and started upstairs, leaving a floundering family behind him. All but one. In the emotional chaos the others almost missed his their youngest darted up the stairs to fall into step beside the young crime lord. Walking close enough to brush arms.

Almost. Well. That might answer how he knew about some of the things that were said.

In the Danny is Damian’s brother trope what if instead of Damian not telling the family about Danny wasn’t because of grief or shame or any of the more commonly used reasons for his silence. What if it was because he heard about how his father talked about Jason after his death, focusing and exaggerating the negative. That he was violent, angry, never listened to orders but in some iterations and popular fanon is that Jason was a cheerful and studious Robin.

What if while compiling info and researching the former robins during his tumultuous introduction he saw what kind of robin Jason was, good with kids and victims. Talking about his favorite books while on patrol and similar. Reminding Damian of his most Beloved brother.

Then he finds out about how Bruce talked about Jason after he died. Using him as an example as what not to do, erasing his good traits and just using him as a cautionary tale of what happens when you don’t follow orders. Just like what Ra’s said about Danny.

So he didn’t tell the family, not out of guilt or grief. But because his father stripped away Jason’s positive traits after death, the son he chose, adopted and loved. Who when he failed because he was a child led astray by his mother. What would he do to his brother, who loved the stars and excelled in stealth, who was quite in his kills but had no lust for killing.

Whether or not Bruce would do this to Danny’s memory doesn’t matter. B’s actions are gonna affect how Damian views his father even years after the initial actions. Because Damian will protect his brothers memory from being twisted even by their father.

[redrobin-detective]

love grows where it is planted

"Oh shoot, I’m all out of hot pads,” Ma frowned looking at the feast she had made. “Temperature doesn’t bother you boys, can one of you bring the corn out to the table?”

“Got it,” Clark said, reaching for the pan.

“No sweat,” Conner said at the same time as he also reached for the pan. They stared at each other with near identical eyes, each of them with one grip on the handles of the dish.

“I said I got it,” Clark demurred politely, pulling the corn a little closer to him. 

“Yeah and you already took out the potatoes so it’s only right that I bring out the corn,” Conner said with a frustrated frown. He tugged the dish closer to him. Clark was older, more responsible so he was supposed to be the bigger man and not roll his eyes and sigh. But it sure was hard to resist. 

“Oh for goodness sake, you two,” Ma groaned, grabbing a thick towel off the stove and pulling the pan out of both of their hands. She bustled with it to the table and set it down with a mighty thunk. “I worked hard on this meal so I don’t think it’s too much to ask you two to behave.”

“Sorry Ma,” Clark apologized, seating himself at his usual spot at the dining room table. He never felt more like a kid than he did sitting here, the same table that somehow survived all through his childhood misadventures. Conner mumbled something to Ma before sitting down in a defeated slump. Clark raised an eyebrow, would it kill the kid to sit up straight for dinner?

“Right, it’s so nice to have both of my boys home,” Ma beamed between the two of them. “It’s been too long since we’ve shared a meal together.” Something that probably wasn’t a coincidence. Clark tended to announce his visits ahead of time only to arrive and find Conner had ‘business’ to attend to with the Titans. Or just Tim if Batman’s grumblings were anything to go by. Clark spent very little time with his clone and it seemed the feeling was mutual. So he must say he was a bit surprised when Ma asked him to fly down for dinner only to find Kon and Krypto playing in the field. 

“Thank you, Ma’am, it smells amazing,” Kon said with a grin. He had his fork and knife in hand, clearly ready to get started.

“Conner, I’m no less your Ma when Clark is here so please stop it with that Ma’am nonsense,” she sighed. “And don’t wait on this old lady, dig in boys it’s not getting any warmer.”

Conversation proceeded well for the first part of the meal. Ma spoke of what the neighbors had been up to, how the corn had been doing this year. Clark explained the latest story he was researching, what trouble Lois was getting into and a funny story involving Jimmy the other day. Kon went into the details of a Titans mission, one Clark had gotten a briefing on last week. Clark waited for Ma to stop him but she seemed engaged, asking questions about the mission and the other teens. They looked so at ease together. 

Clark stabbed at his porkchop. It would be stupid and petty to say he was annoyed of how well his mother and Conner got along. Ma had always been so strict with his powers growing up and, even as an adult, she didn’t like hearing about cape stuff when he came to visit. But Kon had been using his powers on and off all evening and, from the way it sounded, kept Ma up to date with his superheroics. The double standard just irked him, maybe this was why Bruce’s many, many children were always bickering. 

“Alright, I hope you boys saved room for dessert. I made your favorites, apple for Clark and pecan for Conner,” Ma said, shuffling back into the kitchen, leaving Clark and Conner alone. The room fell into silence. 

“Didn’t know you liked pecan pie,” Clark said awkwardly. “It was one of Pa’s favorites but I’m not a fan, Ma hasn’t made it in a while cause of it.”

“Oh I mean, all her pies are good, y’know?” Conner shrugged, playing with his fork. They didn’t speak again until Ma came back with two heaping pie slices for each of them. 

“I can’t stomach another thing right now so I’ll just grab a coffee but I wanted to talk to you kids about something so stay there,” Ma said, talking as she poured her coffee. “It’s nothing bad I promise but it is important.”

“It’s about the farm,” Ma said finally as she settled herself down at the table. “I’m not going to live forever so I wanted to talk to you boys about what to do with it.”

“Ma,” Clark said, the apple pie turning bitter in his mouth. Losing Pa had devastated him, he didn’t even want to think about his mother...

“Put those big, wet eyes away, Clarkie,” Ma said sternly but softly as she gripped his hand. “Hopefully it’ll be a long ways off but it’s still something we need to discuss as a family.” She glanced over at Conner and reached for him with her other hand.

“Now right now, Clark gets everything: the house, the farm, the money, all of it. Course that will was made before Johnny died, before you came along, Conner.” 

“Yeah but that shouldn’t make a difference,” Conner muttered, his shoulders hitching up to his ears. “I mean, Clark’s your kid, I don’t see why he shouldn’t get it. I really appreciate you letting me crash here but I’m just-”

“My grandbaby,” Ma interrupted squeezing his fingers. “I don’t care that you came from a test tube, you’re mine just as much as Clark is.” Clark averted his eyes so he didn’t have to see the soft, vulnerable look in the other’s eyes.

“Clark, you haven’t lived on this or any farm in a decade. You come out and help during the harvest but it’s not the same as running a farm full time,” Ma said turning back to him. “You’re a city boy now and I’m proud of you for finding your place so I can’t ask you to pack up and move back to Smallville.”

“I-” Clark started to defend but, once he thought about it, he thinks she was right. He loved this land but did he want to give up everything in Metropolis, his life with Lois, for it? Maintaining a farm wasn’t something that could be done part time. 

“I’ve been thinking for a while of leaving the farm to Conner,” she continued. 

“What?” Kon screeched, leaning over to choke on his bite of pie. 

“Oh don’t act so shocked, you’re a natural,” Ma laughed. She glanced over at Clark with proud eyes. “Took him a bit to get the hang of it but he’s got a good sense of the land, of where to plant, how much to water. You don’t have Clark’s special touch with the livestock but you have the heart of a farmer, Conner Kent.”

“I don’t know,” Conner laughed awkwardly, flushing visibly from the praise. “I just did what you showed me to do. I mean I do, like it I mean. It’s peaceful, quiet, I like seeing the results of my work but I uh,” he looked down at his plate. “I don’t know if I could run this whole place by myself.”

“Well not even Superman can operate a farm even a small one alone, which is why Clark would help you,” Ma smiled. “He could still come down and help with the harvests, take over for a few days when you’re busy with you hero business. You would have the land and the house but maintaining it would be up to both of you.”

“I could help, tell you what my Pa taught me and work the land with you,” Clark said slowly. “If that’s what you’d like, I’d much prefer you to have it than to sell.” Conner was quiet across the table, Clark looked up was surprised to see the boy hunched over with his elbows on the table looking like he was doing his best to fight back tears. 

“Oh baby,” Ma said, standing up and placing her hands on his shoulders. 

“I’ve never had any place I really belonged, nothing that was mine,” Conner said thickly. “This land, it’s got a lot of love and history in it. You’d trust me with that?”

“Of course, Conner,” Ma leaned down and hugged him from behind. “A farm doesn’t care who you are or where you come from, all it cares is the love you give it. And I’ve seen you honey, you love these fields, these skies. God I wish Johnny had lived to have met you, you two would’ve gotten on so well.”

“Kon,” Clark said, the boy lifted his wet eyes to him. “This is your home, as much as it was mine. I love it too but it wasn’t what I needed but maybe it could be what you need.” Conner didn’t say anything just nodded his head and went back to looking at his plate. Ma stroked his hair a moment longer before giving him some space to clean up the plates. 

Conner and the farm. It would have seemed unbelievable a few years ago but this boy seemed very different from the young clone Clark had first met. He’d done a lot of growing when Clark hadn’t been watching, become someone his father would have loved. Clark was sorry he missed that.

“I don’t think I’ll be able to convince Tim to move out of Gotham,” Conner said after a few minutes.

“What’s Tim got to do with this?” Clark blinked, Conner blushed again and ducked his head lower. 

“You know I love Timmy but I’m telling you as your Ma; you wait until you’re out of high school before you put a ring on his finger, you hear?” Ma called from the kitchen. Now it was Clark’s turn to choke. He hadn’t realized Tim and Conner’s relationship had progressed so much. What else had he missed in Kon’s life while he was too busy feeling strange about the whole thing?

“I wasn’t gonna-” Kon blushed harder. “Yes, Ma.”  

“Good, well I’m glad we had this talk. We’ll keep going over the specifics but I’d like to get that will changes sooner rather than later. That’s not something I want to leave to chance.” Ma smiled from the kitchen eyes landing softly first on Conner then on Clark. “Alright, lets get these dishes washed and dried so you kids can go for a little flight while the sun’s still up. Clark’s known these skies a lot longer than you, hun, I’m sure he can show you a few nice spots.”

“Yeah,” Clark smiled. “That’d be nice. What do you say, wanna go out for a spin?”

“Sounds good,” Kon smiled back shyly.

“You can tell me more about Tim,” Clark waggled his eyebrows. “He’s always so polite with him but Bruce acts like he’s some sort of gremlin. Who knew we’d both have tastes for trouble causing brunettes.”

“Clark,” Conner moaned, burying his face in his face.

[hintofelation99]

The all had multiple expulsion threats and meetings at school no question. And yet Bruce somehow is voted the best parent at the PTA.

Bruce is the best soccer dad. Also they all get expulsion threats for different reasons.

Dick

Fighting -> He does get into a few fights at first, but after becoming Robin he stops getting into fights.

'Being Disruptive' ->Then he starts to get in trouble for not paying attention, talking in class, constant fidgetting. For the most part it's from teachers who don't even try to understand or accommodate kids with ADHD. Like he's a good kid, he's not trying to be 'disruptive' or 'rude', he just struggles with ADHD and needs teachers who are understanding of that.

Reckless Behavior -> There are several teachers who are amazing and work with his ADHD rather than against it, but even with them he gets in trouble a few times because of 'reckless behavior' (jumping from high places, climbing things that shouldn't be climbed, etc). These teachers aren't rude about it or critical, they're literally just concerned for his safety and that's why they call Bruce.

Jason

Fighting -> He sometimes gets into fights with rich pretentious kids who try to bully him. They quickly learn not to fuck with him.

Reading During Class -> This is usually only done in classes where he doesn't like the teacher —which is pretty common, he likes learning but sometimes he doesn't like school because the teachers annoy him, if he likes the teacher he's a wonderful student, if he doesn't like them... well, he can be a handful— or where he's so far ahead that he gets bored.

Cheating -> Jason has gotten accused of cheating several times, mostly because some people think a kid from crime alley can't get straight A's without cheating.

Cass

'Being Disrespectful' -> There has been at least one teacher who considers Cass' selective mutism to be a form of disrespect.

Physically Attacking Another Student -> One time this guy kept harrassing a classmate of Cass' the person was clearly uncomfortable, so when the guy tried to grope them Cass flipped him.

Ditching Class -> She has at least once just walked out of class after a teacher annoyed her. No comment, no response, no explanation, just left.

Tim

Ditching Class -> He has been known to skip class on occasion. Which honestly, understandable.

Sleeping During Class -> Self explanatory tbh.

Cheating -> He kept getting 100% on tests, even after constantly sleeping during class, so the teachers assumed he was cheating.

Duke

Fighting -> After his parent's went insane he was pretty depressed and angry. Ended up getting in a few fights.

Cheating -> Much like Jason some teachers also thought Duke shouldn't be able to do well in school. So, when he did exceedingly well they assumed he cheated.

Ditching Class -> This mostly happened right after the stuff with his parents, but he still occasionally skips, usually he ends up going to the library.

Damian

Insulting Teachers and Classmates -> Self explanatory.

Physically Assualting a Student -> Usually he's good about not trying to murder others, but he did attack one or two students after they made a racist remark.

Having a Rude Tone -> This got thrown out pretty quickly but there was a teacher who reported him based solely on the tone of his voice.

Everytime one of his kids gets in trouble Bruce comes in and listens to all available perspectives. If they actually did something wrong then Bruce is fine with them facing consequences. But if they didn't actually do something, or it's something he believes they shouldn't be punished for then he will fight it. His most well known fights with the school were over:

Their response to Dick's ADHD

Teachers accusing Duke, Tim, and Jason of cheating without evidence

The teachers response to Cass' selective mutism

The racist remarks made about Damian

As a PTA member he focuses a lot on mental health education, diversity, and funding the arts. He and Alfred tend to tag team events. Alfred handles everything baking always, but other than that they split responsibilites based on Bruce's schedule. Bruce likes to be as present as possible but sometimes he's just too busy, so when that's the case Alfred steps in.

With each kid Bruce learned different areas where the school was lacking, where he could help improve. First was with Dick, he learned that the teachers didn't have the training or resources to give Dick the support needed. None of them knew how to handle ADHD and at first it resulted in poor grades and 'behavioral problems'. To fix this Bruce set up a fund to send teachers to extra training seminars on common learning disabilities and mental health issues, these covered a wide range that not only helped Dick, but also other students who had similar needs. Bruce also helped planned a yearly fundraising event that would make sure the fund was sustainable and not relient on him.

With Jason he focused on revamping the bookfair, there were a lot of other projects he could/wanted/did do, but the bookfair meant the most to Jason so it meant the most to Bruce. He turned the bookfair into a yearly two week long event where authors came to speak, writing work shops were held, and books were donated (ofc books were also sold). Basically he turned it from a bookfair to a bookcon.

For Cass his efforts in getting the teachers the training needed to help students with disabilities was doubled, this time he focused on communicative and sensory disabilities. Like selective mutism, deafness, blindness, etc. His biggest goal was making sure all teachers took at least one sign language course and encouraging them to take more with bonuses and pay raises. Eventually this monetary reward system extending to other out of work classes that could prove beneficial to students.

In a lot of ways Bruce felt like he failed Tim, this was a kid who was his neighbor for years and who eventually became his Robin. Yet it still took him much too long to realize how neglectful Tim's parents were. It really made him question a lot of things, mainly how much child abuse went unnoticed. He started a campaign to raise awareness on types of abuse and the signs to look for. It focused on all forms of abuse, not just neglect. In a way it was therapeutic, not only did it help kids like Tim, but it also helped kids like Jason who faced physical abuse. It ended up begin a popular program that expanded to other schools in the area.

Duke made Bruce think of problems closer to home, namely how Rogue attacks affected children. So for Duke, Bruce worked on creating a support network for children who were victims or were close to victims of Rogue attacks/organized crime in Gotham. Outside of the support network for Rogue victims Bruce also worked with the PTA to schedule several writing competitions, Dick often places in the top three and Bruce is always insanely proud of this.

For Damian Bruce really focused on the arts. He and the PTA started doing art shows every quarter and having students help with school beautification/mural making on campus. These programs helped Damian bond with peers and encouraged him to participate in after school activities. Dick also helped with these programs and expanded them into the community, specifically he worked combining art/beautification programs with fundraising for animal shelters.

[ragingbookdragon]

Friends To Arranged Marriage To...Wait, How Many Kids?

Bruce Wayne x Reader One-Shot

Word Count: 3K Warnings: Explicit Language

Author's Note: Y'all ever write a self-indulgent Friends To Lovers fic? 'Cause that's what this is. Enjoy! -Thorne

It wasn’t unusual for her to suddenly appear in his office. She did it most days. Okay, it was more like every day but that’s not important. The fact is, she showed up and he wasn’t at all the least bit surprised when she barged through the office door and slammed it behind her.

“Morning,” he murmured, taking his eyes off the screen but a moment to lock them with hers.

“Good morning, Bruce,” she responded with a polite smile. “We need to talk.”

That wasn’t unusual either. When she came to the office it was because she wanted to either complain about something going on or because she was bored and didn’t have anything to do, so badgering her best friend seemed like the best option. It wasn’t, but he wasn’t going to tell her that.

“What do we need to talk about?” Bruce questioned, clicking at the mouse until his screen loaded.

“Something important. Something especially important.” She replied and with one hand reached behind her and flipped the lock on his door.

Now that was unusual. And Bruce saw this going one of two ways and he hoped it wasn’t the first way that involved her pulling a gun.

“Okay,” he said and watched her out of the corner of his eye as waltzed around his desk and perched herself on the corner. “Am I in trouble, (Y/N)?”

“If you disagree with me, you will be,” she retorted and she started fumbling in her tote.

“You sound serious,” Bruce noted.

(Y/N) harrumphed. “I am quite possibly the most serious I’ve been in years.” She pulled out three manila folders and handed them to him, watching as he opened the first and started reading through it.

He didn’t say anything as he opened the others and read them but frowned when he set them aside and went back to his computer.

“I’ve already planned on a new secretary, (Y/N).”

She watched him with careful eyes and explained, “Those aren’t secretary files, Bruce. They’re marriage candidates.”

At that, his entire body went rigid and ever so slowly he drew his gaze from the screen back to her, staring her straight in the eyes.

“I…beg your pardon?” he asked as if not understanding what she’d just said.

(Y/N) rolled her eyes and picked up the files. “Each of these women are successful elites from either Metropolis, Star, or Central City. You have arranged marriage meetings with them Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday to decide which one you want to marry.”

This was happening way too fast, and he still didn’t know what “this�� was.

“I’m not opposed to marriage, (Y/N), but why?”

She pointed to the picture on his desk, and he briefly glanced at it. Him, Dick, and Alfred on Christmas morning last year.

“Dick needs a mother.” She was never one to mince her words. “A father can raise a son, but the boy needs a mother’s love too, Bruce.”

“I think you’re a bit out of line here.” He remarked, brows pulling together. “We’re fine at the manor.”

“Bruce…please don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re not a soft man. You’re hard edges and firmness, and while that isn’t a bad thing, Dick needs a mother who can be the parent that isn’t firm. He needs a mother’s guiding hand.”

She handed him the files again. “I’ve met each of these women. They’re good women who will make wonderful wives and even better mothers.” She stared at him. “You should know how important it is for a boy to have a mother.”

Bruce was on his feet in an instant, in front of her, eyes narrowed into a glare as he bit out, “(Y/N), now you’re out of line.”

“Really?” she challenged, not at all threatened by his towering figure. “Look my in the eye and tell me which parent you miss more. Thomas…or Martha?”

“I miss both of my parents. Every day.”

“And I don’t doubt that. But I know you miss Martha the most. Isn’t she the one you promised to save Gotham for?” (Y/N) questioned and his mouth snapped shut, jaw clenching tightly as he averted his eyes because he knew she was right.

She reached out and rested a hand on his forearm, forcing his eyes to hers once more; her gaze softened and she murmured, “You miss your mother more than the world, Bruce. How do you think Dick feels every night when he goes to sleep? Fathers are the protectors for their children, but mothers are the comforters—there are going to be things that you can’t help him with, but a woman can.”

(Y/N) gazed at him and pulled her hand away. “At least go and meet them,” she requested and when he didn’t say anything, she sighed and picked up her tote, making her way to the door.

She flipped the lock and paused, glancing over her shoulder to say, “At least think about what I’ve said, Bruce. For Dick…and for you.” He met her eyes and she added, “I think getting married would be good for you too.”

He nodded, and since that was all they could hope for, she left the office and Bruce collapsed into his chair, turning around to stare out the window.

***

His theory that she would show up Friday evening proved true when she waltzed into his office and took a seat in one of the leather chairs in front of his desk, delicately crossing one of her legs over the other.

“How’d the interviews go?” she asked, not even bothering to ask him how his day was or how his week had been.

“My day was great, (Y/N), thanks for asking,” he mocked with a glare and she waved it off.

“Interviews, Bruce. How’d they go.”

He let out a sigh. “They went well. Each of them was polite and kind.”

“And?” (Y/N) gestured for him to continue.

“And nothing. That’s it.”

She huffed and crossed her arms over her chest. “Seriously? You just met them for a singular purpose and all you’ve got it, they’re polite and kind?” She glared at him. “What’d you talk about?”

Bruce sighed again and reclined in his office chair. “Humanitarian works, college days, high society—you know, the usual.”

(Y/N) gave him an unamused look. “Did any ask for a second date?”

“All of them in fact.”

“Did you agree?”

“No.”

Her head lolled back, and she glared at the ceiling. “Did you even think about what I talked about a few days ago?”

“I still am.”

“Then why didn’t you agree to see one of them again?”

“Because there wasn’t anything we had in common.”

“Most people who have arranged marriages don’t, Bruce. That’s why you go on dates and get to know them.” Her eyes were still on the ceiling. “What’s the real reason you said no?” She always knew when he’d lied to her.

After a moment, he murmured, “…I didn’t think any of them would be suitable to be Dick’s adoptive mother.”

“I guess that’s…fair,” she agreed and they both fell silent.

A couple minutes later, he said, “I’ve been thinking about what you said though, (Y/N). About finding a wife who would be a good mother for Dick.”

“Uh huh.”

“I think you’re right. I do offer Dick everything a father could. Support, protection, guidance…but he is missing that love only a mother can give a son.”

“And how’s that making you feel?” she questioned softly.

His voice got quiet. “Like how I was when I was growing up without mother. (Y/N), I…I don’t want Dick to feel that way.”

At that, she drew her gaze from the ceiling to his eyes and she reasoned, “Then I think you should call one of the girls back and agree to a second date. You won’t find perfection in one day, even with how intuitive you are.”

Bruce shrugged. “I just want to find someone closer to Gotham. Someone who is familiar with us already.”

(Y/N) grunted. “I purposely moved away from Gotham because no one is.”

“That’s fair,” Bruce chuckled, and they fell into a silence again.

Suddenly, a thought flashed across her mind and she sat up. “Us.” She blurted out and he looked at her.

“What?”

(Y/N) gestured between them. “Us, Bruce. You and me.”

“I don’t follow,” he replied with a confused expression and she huffed, rolling her eyes.

“You’re an idiot,” she griped, then she stood and planted her hands on his desk, leaning over to get in his face. “You and I are the closest to Gotham as you’ll get, and I’m familiar with you and Dick.” She smiled. “Marry me.”

She could count on one hand how many times she’d ever stunned her best friend silent and that was number two because his jaw went slack and his eyebrows shot up to his hairline, steel blue eyes wide.

(Y/N) frowned. “Oh, come on, you can’t tell me the thought didn’t cross your mind at least once.” Silence. “Oh my God, are you serious? You didn’t even think about it at all? Like ever?”

He shook his head, mouth still hanging open.

“Oh, for God’s sakes, close your mouth and wipe that stupid look off your face. It’s not a completely inconceivable idea, you moron.” (Y/N) held a hand up, counting off her fingers, “I’m of acceptable status, I dress well, I’m thoroughly educated, I do humanitarian work all over the world, I love your son, and I’m probably the one woman that doesn’t make you wanna stab yourself in the eye with a fork.”

She grinned at him. “You’re not going to find anyone better than me here in Gotham, Brucie-boy. Besides, I think (Y/N) Wayne has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”

Finally, he managed to make himself speak and he blurted out, “I stopped thinking like five minutes ago. I’m not even sure how to do that anymore.”

(Y/N) pulled a face and griped, “You’re an idiot.”

“I am not,” he retorted with a glare. “You can’t just propose to your best friend out of the blue and expect them to function like it’s normal!”

“You’re Batman,” she whispered. “Figure it out.” (Y/N) pointed at him. “There’s another plus on my side! I already know your deepest secrets! See, aren’t I a catch?”

“Was this your plan all along?” Bruce suddenly questioned and she gaped at him for a second before shaking her head.

“…No.”

“(Y/N),” he drawled, and she sighed.

“Alright, it crossed my mind a couple times but that’s why I started with the other women first. I was kinda hoping you’d pick one of them.” (Y/N) looked at him. “I really don’t see anything wrong with us getting married though. We’ve been friends since we were babies, we have a lot of the same interests, and we both care for Dick.”

She shrugged. “I mean we might not be in love, but our marriage doesn’t have to be. We’re stepping up for a greater good. For a young boy who deserves to have two parents.” (Y/N) reached out and held out her hand. “So? What do you say?”

Bruce gazed at her for a long time, longer than she was comfortable with because she knew he was mentally pulling her mind apart. After a few moments he stood and walked around the desk to stand in front of her.

She pulled her hand back in and gave a curious look. “Bruce?” His hands gently took hold of her cheeks and he leaned forward, even as her eyes went wide and she whispered, “Bruce, what—”

He softly brushed his lips against hers and (Y/N) all but melted against him, her hands pressed flat against his chest. They pulled away a moment later and he rested his forehead to hers.

“I think we can make it work, (Y/N).”

She couldn’t fight the giddy smile that came over her face. “Yeah?”

Bruce matched her smile. “Yeah.”

***

“So, you’re tellin’ me,” he started dubiously, looking at him. “That you and Ma only got together because you guys wanted to make sure Golden-boy had two parents instead of just you?”

Bruce didn’t even take his eyes off the screen as he responded absentmindedly, “That pretty much covers it.”

Jason threw his hands in the air. “There’s no way! There’s no way that shit was arranged! You two make googly eyes at one another when you think no one is watching and you kiss Ma before you go to work every day!” he looked at his brothers. “Y’all know what I’m sayin’ right?”

Tim nodded. “Jay’s got a point, dad. For an arranged marriage, the two of you are really in love.”

Dick placed a hand over his heart and smugly admitted, “You’re welcome everyone, for bringing mom and dad together in real love.”

A chorus of “Fuck you’s” echoed from Jason and Tim, and Damian placed his hands on his hips.

“When did you know you loved Umi, Father?”

Finally, he pulled his gaze from the Batcomputer, and even behind his cowl, they could see the love he had in his eyes and in his voice as he said, “Your mother and I dated for a year before we married, but the night of our wedding, we spent it at the manor and Dick crawled into our bed and spent the night wrapped in our arms.”

Bruce smiled. “I woke up early that morning and saw him curled in (Y/N)’s arms and all I could think was that I’d never loved a woman more than that moment then.” His eyes shifted to all of his sons. “And I’ve only fallen deeper in love with her with each of you that’s come into our home. You make us better parents every day and I wouldn’t change what I was given for anything in the world.”

He barely had time to breathe before all four of his sons were crashing into him, squeezing him as tears spilled down their cheeks.

Bruce huffed a quiet laugh and took a moment to brush a hand through each of his sons’ hair. “I love you, boys.”

A chorus of “I love you too’s” came back at him and before anyone could speak, they heard someone coo, “Aww, that’s so sweet!”

They spun around to see (Y/N) with her phone out, a mile-wide smile on her face, eyes shining with tears.

“Ma…what are you doing?” Jason questioned and she clicked something on her phone.

“Oh, nothing, my sweet boy,” she smiled, and all of her sons started pulling away from Bruce.

“Did you just record that?” Tim asked and she took a step back.

“I would never!” and she stared them down for a split second before spinning on her heel and hauling off towards the stairs. Her sons sprinted after her and she let out a squeal as she skipped the steps two at a time to get away from them.

“Ma come back here!” Jason shouted.

“Umi! Our dignity is on that phone!”

“I dunno, I think it’s sweet!”

“It’s not going to be sweet when she sends it to the group chat that every superhero is in, Dick! We have reputations!”

“Oh…that’s a good point, Tim. Mom! Come back here!”

(Y/N) gasped as someone’s arms wrapped around her waist and she came face to face with Bruce—well, Batman, and she yelped when he pulled her phone out of her pocket.

“Bruuuuuuce!” she whined. “Please don’t delete it!” (Y/N) reached for the phone and he held it out of reach. “Darling, my sweet darling, Bruce, please,” she plead. “If you love your wife and mother of your children, you won’t do that.”

His gaze darted to hers and she pouted, sticking her bottom lip out in the way that she knew he’d crack. “Please, my heart. Let me have a reminder of my beautiful boys.”

“You won’t send it to the chats?” he asked, and she crossed a finger over her heart.

“Cross my heart, darling.” He handed her back the phone and she smiled, leaning up to peck the corner of his mouth. “Thank you, Bruce.”

He cupped her cheek with his gloved hand, thumb brushing over her cheekbone and he pulled her into a real kiss, ignoring the exaggerated gags behind him.

“I love you,” he murmured as he pulled away from her lips. “More than you know.”

(Y/N) hummed, her eyes still closed, and she whispered, “You might love me more, but I love you most.” She opened her eyes and gazed at him. “All my boys.”

Suddenly, her phone started dinging like crazy and he stared at her, his Batman voice coming out as he surmised, “You sent it to the chat, didn’t you?”

She gave him an innocent smile and giggled, “I might’ve.”

“You’re going to pay for all the teasing that Hal and Barry are going to give me, (Y/N) Wayne,” he warned, and she scoffed.

“Oh, boo hoo, I’m so scared of what the big bad Bat is go—” a gasp escaped her when he hauled her up against his body and she stared at him with wide eyes.

A siren went off down in the cave and he looked towards the boys. “Go.” They all hurried off, complaining about the various texts they were all getting.

Bruce looked back at her, voice lowering as he growled, “After patrol I’m coming up to the bedroom and you’d better be ready, because I’m not going to stop ravishing you until you’re begging me for release.”

Something hot, tight, and fierce shot through (Y/N)’s gut and she could only flounder like a fish as he pulled her into another searing kiss before he spun on his heel and descended into the cave.

She gathered herself and called out after him, “You can’t just say something like that and then leave! That’s not fair, Bruce! Bruce, are you listening to me!”

Only his laughter echoed from below.

“Bruce!”