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introvertllux · 2 years

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Chapter 1: Welcome The Waynes’

There I stood will an unbalanced posture, my left leg two steps below my right leg and torso twisted slightly—my left hand gripping the side of the rickety base section of the extension ladder.

:readmore:

I remember Alan, the Direct supervisor of Gotham's Orphanage Volunteers, saying, "It's been a while since we've used this old thing." He said with a chuckle. The ladder had been very dusty and littered with cobwebs. It felt very eerie, unsettling, and uncomfortable to be using it, as it was locked away within the orphanage's cold, dark, and abandoned walls. I felt a sense of disrespect entering a building where people- children suffered and died. I had expressed to Alan that we should buy another ladder, something without a tragic history. However, Alan didn't share the same perspective as me, stating- "What's with women and all your emotions and overthinking, listen if it ain't broke, don't fix it." He said as he nudged my shoulder with his sharp and boney elbow. If I didn't need this job then, I probably would've broken Alan's nose and twisted his tiny little man parts until he began to get emotional and overthink his life choices. But hey, that was neither here nor there.

I knew it wasn't the best idea to stand so unbalanced on a latter that hadn't been used in over 10 years, especially with my stature. I was only 5'2, petite, yet there I was, the only brave soul who volunteered to hang a "1-year re-opening sign" to a 48ft tall ceiling. I guess I would use the term "brave" loosely. I really wanted to volunteer for the care sector of the volunteer department. I have always loved kids, which was why I had signed up for this position- it would help spruce up my resume. I needed to have the ideal resume for a child psychologist. However, I have always had an instant connection with kids and animals all my life- it was funny, too. I'd always dreamed of this nice cozy life with six children or more married, a nice picket fence, and a large healthy grassy green plot of land to call my own. Of course, this was my end goal, but unfortunately, this was a part of my start. Plus, one would think with someone like Alan as your boss, sexist, arrogant, and proud of it, he would let me have this opportunity, but no. He believed that children should be "free," as he called it, left to their own devices, running around, and figuring out life independently. This was why about twenty adorable children were running around in their Sunday best around the banquet hall of the brand-new orphanage. This was also why the banner I was assigned to hand up was a quarter of the way hung on the ceiling, as the rest was draped along the top of the latter, flowing down on my left shoulder, and the rest balled up in my right hand loosely. My attention was on the children ensuring they were safe, smiling, and feeling well. That was the least they deserved. I wouldn't be able to bare it if any of them had to suffer in the same way many of us Gotham Orphans had to. Even if most people were like Alan and didn't believe in the renewal slated to happen, I did, and I wanted to ensure I did everything I could to ensure we stuck to the word's true meaning.

"See, this is why I had you on banner duty!" I heard a grumbling and agitated voice say. I blinked once and let out a small sigh, "Well, someone has to ensure the children are safe." "Those little rugrats will be fine; I haven't heard any crying, whining, or seen any blood. What more do you want. But, my ass won't be fine if that banner isn't hung up before 7'oclok- and your ass is grass he said as I mouthed his well-known line, and I turned my body around, repositioning the banner to prepare to hang again. I waited what felt like centuries for Alan to stop micromanaging me before I turned back to my position, smiling as I saw the children run, admiring their abundance of energy. I turned my attention away from them to listen to the television, which was airing the 6'oclock news:

"Today marks the 1st anniversary of the attack on the City of Gotham. Many walk the streets of Gotham feel at ease knowing that the masked terrorist, known publically as The Riddler, is locked away in Arkham Asylum. Though today marks a day of fear and distress for many as they remember the horrific events that plagued our City only a year ago, along with feelings of unsettledness as many of the Riddler's followers still look in the shadows of Gotham. Today also marks a revival or renewal as The Prince of Gotham has decided to choose this day to honor his late father's plan to have an orphanage." The male new anchor, Samuel Brown, stated.

That's very true, Sam; the City's been talking, and everyone's been out and about making public appearances, including newly elected Mayor Bella Real and Commissioner Gordan, yet the man of the hour- Gotham's very own prince Bruce Wayne has yet to make any public appears in regards to the opening." The new female anchor, Lucy Smith.

That's Gotham City News, one-sided and judgmental, the opposite of real news- or maybe they're exactly how "real" news is. However, did have a point in saying Bruce Wayne was very low in appearance. A few months ago, I had only seen him from a distance when he announced that he would plan renewal for the orphanage. After that, it was almost like radio silence. It seemed odd that he had not appeared afterward. However, it was always said that he was a quiet and reserved person. Plus, one had to think it would be complicated for him to revive something that was once the idea of his deceased father. I mean, think about it, it was a media fiasco, then his parents were tragically killed, he then became the very description of who his father attended, he then hid away, rarely seen, and now he's trying to take his father's dream, make it into his own in a city full of people that respect, loathe, and are confused by his very existence. I'm sure he-

"Ms. Scarelet, watch out!" I heard as I turned quickly on the wobbling ladder. I gripped the banner tight as I heard a loud rip. I closed my eye as I fell from 30 or more feet in the air bracing myself for impact with the glossy marble floor. I waited for the impact, but it never came. I felt arms around me. Oddly enough, I felt warm? Safe? But I couldn't imagine how much of a sense this must have caused. Or how awkward this must have been for the person holding me. Or if one of the children was hurt by the ladder.

I opened my eyes nervously. My eyes made eye contact with an intense blue-eyed stare- it almost felt hypnotic. It felt as if it were just the two of us in this room as his eyes stared into my warm brown eyes. "Are you alright, Ms., Ms.-" He said as he began to help me stand upright, "Um... Ms. uh- Ms. Scarlet- Scarlet Taylor." I said, still feeling like I was in a trance state, and I began to regain feeling in my wobbling legs. My heart was still racing fast, not sure if that was due to the amount of adrenaline in my body at the site of the man before me. Not only had Bruce Wayne saved my life, but he was standing right before me. It was silly of me to think, what was he doing here, at his own event, but- what? "What are you doing here?!" I yelled out loud. I quickly covered my mouth, not realizing that my overthinking led to me thinking out loud as I often do. He looked taken aback. "I'm sorry -uh, Mr. Wayne." I could pass out from the level of anxiety and embarrassment I felt. "It's quite alright, Ms. Taylor." He said in a low tone, almost like a whisper, as he lifted me slightly. As I came straight on with his eye contact, my heart began to beat rapidly in my chest again. I quickly broke eye contact just in time as I felt a tug on my black and white oversized volunteer shirt, "Ms. Scarlett, Ms. Scarlett, Alex is crying! He feels bad because he ran into the ladder." I snapped out of my trance and looked down at Isabella, a beautiful ebony little girl with bouncy black kinky curls. I grabbed her hand, "Thank you, Izzy. I'm okay, now I promise; let's see Alex and cheer him up." I said as I began to turn to walk away. "Wait!" she yelled, letting go of my hand and running back to the spit we once stood. "Hey, you!" Isabella exclaimed. I turned around to see that she was yelling at the one and only Bruce Wayne. "Iz-" I started to say before I saw that she had dashed off. That was Izabella for you, always straightforward and bold, never afraid to stand her ground and say what she wants. As I began to go after her, I stopped abruptly seeing the interaction between Izabella and the mysterious heir to Wayne industries play out. Izabella, being the sass queen she was, had her hands on her little hips, ready to speak her truth. As I turned my gaze to Bruce, I noticed his slight shock as he looked down at the tiny human. They continued to talk for a few more moments until I saw Izabella put and her little hands turned into fists. I immediately jogged over, knowing that this would be either a moment of frustration or pure sadness for Izabella. As soon as I made it over, I slid behind Izabella, sitting on my knees, as I placed my hands gently on her shoulders and turned her around. "Hey, hey Iz, it's okay. It's okay." I said softly as I folded her body into a cuddle. I began rocking her slowly, "It's alright, let it all out, and when you're ready to talk, I'm all ears." I smiled up at Bruce nervously, "Sorry about that. I wanted to interrupt sooner, but Izzy matches to her own drum most of the time. It's kind of hard to get her to come back." I said. "It's funny; judging by her stature, she was giving one of Izzy's sass lectures." I said as I looked up at Bruce quickly and slowly lowered my gaze back to Izzy as I heard her whimpers dismissing. "You okay, Izzy-girl?" I asked. "Y-yea-yes." She said, still trying to get a hold of her voice. "Shh, it's okay; take your time." I said. "I-I just-" She said as she swallowed, "I was telling him that he's a hero!" She yelled. I snickered a little, "Yeah? And then? What got you upset?" I asked softly. "He said he's not a hero! But, but he- he-" Izabella stated as he began to get riled up again. "Shh,-Izzy, don't get so worked up. I gotcha." I said calmly. "Hmm.. maybe I can help?" I asked her as she nodded her head yes on my forearm. "Okay, let me know if I mess up; so you're frustrated because you believe this man saved my life, making him a hero. But he says he's not a hero." I asked, clarifying the story. "Mhmmn, I am frusurated because he doesn't get it." She said. "That he saved a life?" I questioned back. "Yes and no!" She yelled. "Yes and no?" I questioned. "Yes and no! He saved your life, he doesn't get how much we love you, and you we almost gone!" She cried out as she began to sob again, burying herself into my chest. Oh, Izzy, I thought to myself. I guess at the moment, I wasn't really thinking, "What if I died?" There was never a moment in my life when I didn't feel danger, was a part of it or even was the cause myself. I wouldn't say I didn't fear death, but I can confidently say I was desensitized. I began to stand, hugging Izzy close to me. I turned back slightly to see Alex crying but surrounded by other children attempting to comfort him. "I- I guess that my cue." I said as I turned back to face Bruce. As I began to turn around, I heard Bruce say, "Wait." I halted in my tracks, "I won't say I'm the hero here. I think you're the real hero; you were brave and stood up for what you believed in." Bruce said as he took a step closer to us. He then reached his hand out to Izabella, and she perked up slightly, tears streaming down her eyes still, and looked at his stretched-out hand. She then looked up at me in confusion. I encouragingly raised my eyebrows. Moments later, she stretched out her smaller hand. The two then locked hands, and they began shaking hands.

"WHAT!" Yelled a voice as baked chicken chunks started spewing out over the table. "Jason Peter Todd, cover your mouth before you choke, now!" I yelled. "I-I I'm sorry, mom, I literary can-can't breathe! There's no way in Hell you guys met like that!" He yelled out again as he was laughing. "Your mouth Jason!" I said sternly as I pointed my fork at him. "Hey, Hell is not a curse; it's a place!" He said matter of factly. Ahh, that's my Jaybird for you, confident, energetic, and strong, but man, is he a smartass, as his father likes to say, witty as Jace and I like to say. He probably got it from me. The cursing, though, I refuse to take accountability for, but the wit, yes. There was a great opportunity to say in response to his Hell is a place technicality, but saying, "Yeah, well, I have no problem taking you there if I hear you curse one more time." But that wouldn't have worked since- well, let's not go there.

"Yeah, mom, I have to side with Jay here!" I heard my oldest son say. "What, you finally agree with something I said? Well, Hel-" Jason began to say before I sent him an icy stare as he quickly retreated and went back to filling his fork with food. "You and dad had a meet cute like a real meet cute!" He said. I laughed lightly as I glanced over at my boy wonder, my responsible, caring, and sometimes a little bit overly idealistic. He may get that from me too. "I guess you can call it that! Your dad was like my knight in dark, brooding armor." I said with a shrug.

"Well, I think it's a miracle father even managed to get you Ommi with lines like that. Please, father, did you not understand my mother would never succumb to such cheat tactics." Ahh, Dami, that's my baby. My youngest would be so mad if I ever let it be known, but he is a mama's boy, and I love that about him. He's a spinning image of his father in both looks and intelligence. Very charismatic but very judgmental. "Well, Dami, it's lines like that that caught my interest at first, but what got me to stay was your father's intellect," I said.

"Yeah, but mom, comes on- I'm no hero. That's so cheesy! Plus, how is it that you and dad met that way? Meet cute or not, the rate that you would meet and fall in love because you were about to fall to your death?" I heard the voice say as I laughed out loud, Timmy, my logical thinker. Always thinking and thinking and thinking. I can't decide if that's rubbed off from me of his father. I love how thoughtful and reserved my Timmy can be. It really holds the balance in the family when everyone gets a little too crazy. But sometimes, I wish that he would see the more emotional side of things.

"Well, I think it's cute. Romantic even. How rare is it to meet the way they did, stay together, and have a family as big as ours? Plus, it's Gotham stranger things have happened. We're a family of masked heroes by night. How atypical can we get." Duke- he's like my twin. He's just like me. Very feelings based- which can sometimes take a turn for the worst. Still, he's so kind and nurturing to all.

"Alfred, is that really how it happened?" Tim asked. Alfred perked up, straightening his posture and clearing his throat before answering, "Well, master Timothy according to your parents, they seem to share the same perspective on the initial meeting...I believe it's what happened after. I think that may vary." He stated almost matter of factly.

"Alright Al, spill!" Jason yelled a little to excitedly.

"Well from you Father's reactions, it appeared that he had an instant attraction to your mother. He was unaware himself, but I could tell as he worked intensely, trying to distract himself; I suppose to avoid stating his true feelings. Many mixed signals, but I believe once your father was able to come to terms with his feeling for your mother, he changed." Alfred said, sounding proud.

"Changed how? He's the same branding old man!" Jason yelled.

"I agree; I see no changes from father." Stated Damien.

I looked to my left side, seeing my husband about to retreat into his shell, and he began to brood. I knew he must have been embarrassed; he was not one to show his emotions... sometimes his reserved demeanor comes off cold and distant which was enough to make me question, if he enjoyed the life we created together or...

CHAPTER 2

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watchtowerindistress · 2 years

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we are not our demons (6/24) - bruce wayne x batmom

Author’s note: For Vicki Vale's character, I used the comic version of her who has red hair. I was a bit reluctant about using her as a character because I don't really like her and how she was depicted in Batman (1989), lol. But I needed a Gothamite reporter who was a bit more familiar. [Read more at the end.]

Beta-read by Heidi and gnomewithalaptop

Warning: language

Words: 3.9k

Please reblog/leave a comment.

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Hurts like heaven, lost in the sound

Buzzcut season like you’re still around

Can’t unmiss you and I need you now

-i’m so tired… by Lauv & Troye Sivan-

“I’m sorry, Miss Vale, but my private life is called private for a reason.”

A jolt ran through her body when Bruce’s distinctive voice filled the other room. It felt like hearing a ghost. Ellie’s heart jumped wildly in her chest from the unexpected noise. Almost absentmindedly, her eyes caught the brown liquid she had spilled on the table.

She hissed under her breath when the heat stung her fingertips. “Damn it.” Ellie placed the cup of coffee back on the hard surface and shook her hand to get rid of the twinging ache before taking the mug in the hand still intact.

The warmth of the morning brew gave off a distracting sensation on the palms of her hands. Clasping the cup safely in her hands, she slowly padded on naked feet into the living-room, with her wet hair falling in tendrils to her shoulders from her morning shower.

Feeling her towel droop from her chest, Ellie anxiously readjusted the fabric covering her up before fixating her stare on the screen.

Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. It seemed that Bruce finally succumbed and delivered the first video proof that he was indeed alive by agreeing to a TV interview.

Vicki Vale tilted her head curiously. Her long, straight ginger hair fell over her shoulder. “Of course. That’s perfectly understandable, Bruce—may I call you Bruce?”

Narrowing his eyes by an inch, Bruce’s whole aura changed as his body stilled. His whole demeanor felt so surreal to Ellie. Displaying the typical smirk usually reserved for the media, Bruce curved his lips, blinking slowly.

“Mr. Wayne is fine, Miss Vale.”

Vicki’s body shook with amused chuckles, not seeming to take offense to this declaration. Her blue eyes wandered to her notepad.

“Anyway,” Vicki’s eyes sparked with mischief, “Mr. Wayne, would you care to reveal if there are any new upcoming projects Wayne Enterprises is pursuing? Or even some joint venture with another company? I seem to remember your firm’s successful endeavor with Booster Gold International in the past.”

Bruce’s hands stretched on his lap before he folded them together. Ellie nibbled on her lower lip as soon as his dexterous fingers caught her eye. She felt the heat rise in her body from the memories hitting her all at once.

How his calloused hands had slid over her hips in his quest to explore her body. Ellie’s fingers brushed over her overheated neck when his knuckles came into view and how he used those strong digits to lightly thwack her⎼

“That’s true.”

Ellie swallowed thickly when Bruce’s voice yanked her out of her carnal musings.

“Booster Gold and I both share our interests in creating technology to improve our society.” A one-sided smirk tugged on his lips. “But I’m sorry to disappoint—the answer is no. Trust me, I know how much the people of Gotham love those partner projects. At the moment, I am working on a secret undertaking—more of a passion project—which will hopefully offer support to a lot of people. It’s not that news-worthy, to be honest.”

Vicki smiled, despite the vague news Bruce just delivered. “Well, I, for one, can’t wait to find out what you have planned. Now, onto the next question: did you have the chance to see Oliver Queen’s latest interview?”

Bruce raised an eyebrow in amusement. “No. I hate to admit it, but I do not follow every billionaire, in spite of everyone seeming to think we’re all best friends.”

The redhead pursed her lips as she tried to wrap her head around that tidbit of information. “Wait, you’re saying that you aren’t aware of what he told the press this morning?”

Bruce narrowed his eyes suspiciously, letting his hand rub his mouth. “Something tells me I’m not going to like it, whatever it is,” he grumbled with his gravelly voice. Ellie took a swig of coffee to quench her sudden thirst.

Vicki’s eyes sharpened as she focused on something just out of frame behind the camera. “Joey, can we roll that clip?” She twirled a finger in the air and an unfamiliar video footage filled the entire screen.

Ellie folded her arms, tilting her head with a knitted brow.

The words ‘Oliver Queen breaks silence’ and ‘For the third time in six years, Oliver Queen has been accused of being a vigilante’ were highlighted on the lower half of the display.

There was something about the concept of billionaires that would remain an unreachable enigma. Just like Bruce.

Ellie could detect the emblem of the news station 'Gotham City News' in the right corner of the screen while Oliver remained the main focus. The high quality of the video revealed Oliver holding the organized press statement in some conference room.

Queen’s vaguely familiar scruffy face met the reporters head-on.

“Okay, first things first: I’m not the Green Arrow,” Queen said, leaning forward against the podium which held several microphones, effectively cutting off the onslaught of questions from all sides.

Queen offered his infamous playboy smile. Despite the onslaught of cameras flashing, Oliver’s expression remained composed, added with the suit and tie being perfectly in place.

“Number two: photos can be doctored. They could’ve put anyone’s head on that body. Like…” The foyer of his company filled with a sudden silence as he paused, the reporters all round him waiting expectantly, before—“Bruce Wayne. Has Bruce Wayne left Gotham to hang out in Star City recently?” His blue-eyed gaze turned to a few reporters on his left.

“No, he hasn’t. Not to mention, that concept of being accused as a vigilante is just ridiculous to me. I mean, you wouldn’t ask Bruce Wayne if he’s Batman, right?”

Ellie’s mouth opened in shock and felt her hand tense near her head. Oliver Queen totally just did that. Her mind was still reeling from what she had just witnessed. Judging by Oliver’s vehement denial and insistence to condemn Bruce, Ellie was convinced that the businessman was in fact the Green Arrow. Who… apparently knew Batman’s identity.

And he’d just unveiled him to the world.

“Oh shit,” Ellie whispered quietly to herself.

Did they feel some sort of loathing for each other? Why did Oliver just decide to name-drop him out of the blue?

They cut back to Bruce and Vicki, with the camera focusing on the man’s reaction. Any other person might have missed it, but Ellie could have sworn Bruce’s eyes darkened.

Then his public persona took over and he was all smirks and charm again. “Are you asking if I’m Batman?” An amused smile made his lips quirk.

With a few chuckles leaving her lips, Vicki shook her head. “No, of course not. Just wondering why Mr. Queen chose to use your name as an example.” Her eyes sparkled, but there was something cold hidden underneath those perfect lashes.

“Miss Vale, I have stopped trying to understand why Oliver Queen does anything since he tried to make a Viking funeral out of my bed back in boarding school. Don’t presume there’s any bad blood between Ollie and me. Ollie’s just Ollie. Still, it doesn’t change the fact that he changed the subject quite admirably.”

Bruce would be really amazing at poker, Ellie thought, as he sent a bemused smirk at Vicki without revealing his true feelings. “And no, I’m not Batman, Miss Vale,” he said, looking directly into the camera.

Ellie blew the air through her mouth and rubbed her hands on her yoga pants. For their get-together, she’d chosen to wear simple, casual clothes, including a soft burgundy long-sleeve t-shirt to complete the impression of a serene night. Her fingers hovered over her face as a reflex before she remembered she wasn’t wearing her glasses. No matter, her fidgety nature couldn’t be helped now.

With slow steps, she inched closer to the door, feeling her heart beat wildly in her chest, before looking through the peephole.

Just as she had expected, the hazel-brown eyes of Bruce roamed the hallway, giving her the opportunity to watch his side profile. His hair had a few more gray strands at the sides and was slightly tousled, giving him a casual look. Not to mention he was wearing a black Henley and jeans and not his usual business look.

“You want to let me in, or not?”

His teasing words breached the closed door and shook her out of her stupor. Ellie cleared her throat. “Yes, sure. Wait a second.”

She struggled with her lock at the door jamb until she could finally wrestle the door open. Seeing him again after all this time unsettled her. Ellie knew that it was just yesterday when she encountered him, yet it still felt like ages ago. Like seeing him for the first time and getting the breath knocked out of her chest all over again, just from him standing so close to her.

Ellie opened the door further, leaning against the hard edge.

“Hey,” Bruce whispered as he slightly ducked his head. He gazed into her eyes through his eyelashes before stepping into her apartment.

Ellie was glancing over her shoulder at him after he entered her home. “Hey, Bruce,” she breathed. The door slid shut behind her.

He in turn had his hands in his pockets as he assessed his surroundings.

Ellie snorted, prompting him to turn in surprise. “There’s a fire escape, just so you know,” she said, “just in case, this conversation is enticing you to jump out the window after all.”

Bruce chuckled with her before his gaze flicked toward the exit. “Good to know.”

“Oh!” Ellie stuck her finger in the air when she remembered and rushed into the kitchen.

“What’s wrong?” Bruce called from the living room.

“It’s nothing. I just made something to eat,” Ellie said with a raised voice, hoping that her words would reach him while filling the thick risotto in two bowls.

“You didn’t have to. You could have told me, and I would have taken a wine bottle from the cellar.”

Ellie chuckled low, carrying the food into the living room. “Oh please, and risk Alfred’s disgruntled mutterings about taking all the vintage tastes away?”

Bruce tilted his head with narrowed eyes. “That’s a really uncanny impersonation.”

“Thank you. Besides,” Ellie strode back into the kitchen and came back with two glasses and a red wine bottle. “I got wine,” she said, waving the empty glasses with a flourish.

“Well, you’re definitely prepared,” Bruce mentioned with a rumbling noise, taking notice of the already opened bottle.

Ellie glanced at everything through Bruce’s eyes and pursed her lips with heat blossoming in her cheeks. A self-deprecating chuckle left her lips as she explained, “I swear, I’m not trying to get you drunk. I just thought…” Ellie helplessly shrugged her shoulders, but her worries were soon appeased when Bruce’s warm hand lingered on her arm soothingly.

“It’s okay. I get it.”

Ellie cleared her throat. “Take a seat,” she said, taking one herself and waving a hand towards the couch cushion beside her.

He did just that, stapling his hands in front of himself while he leaned forward with his upper body.

“Let me.” Bruce took the bottle and poured the Pinot Noir into two glasses. “So, what did you make?”

“Mushroom Risotto.”

Bruce raised his eyebrows, his wine glass ceasing near his lips before he took a sip. “That’s not a small snack you just prepare.”

Ellie shrugged. “What can I say? I wanted to try it out sometime.” She offered Bruce a spoon while taking a bite of her own.

Ellie used the opportunity to let the taste distract her from this loaded energy and how close Bruce was sitting next to her. His heat felt invigorating to her senses and made her mind feel all hazy simultaneously. Ellie’s skin was on fire from their sheer proximity, and she could only wiggle in her seat.

After humming to himself, Bruce nodded. “It’s pretty good.”

“Thanks. I stuck to the recipe. You know, for someone who lets his butler prepare all of his meals, you have a lot more cooking insight than I would’ve expected. It’s astounding.”

Bruce arched an ironic eyebrow. “Not all of my meals,” he protested. “Besides, when you grow up rich and under Alfred’s guidance, you tend to pick up a few things along the way.”

Ellie felt herself chuckle at his confession. At least Bruce could admit the rich privilege and make jokes about it. It almost felt normal again, to be with him. Like the old days. Then Bruce’s eyes darkened, the smile fading from his lips.

Ellie leaned forward and touched his upper thigh in comfort. Knitting her eyebrows together, she felt a spark of concern when she asked, “What’s wrong, Bruce?” She took a sip of her wine.

His hazel-brown eyes met his lap and a fond smile played on his lips. Like a distant memory. “It was actually my mother who taught me that,” he said gruffly.

“You never talk about them.” Ellie’s words sounded pointless to even utter out loud. And almost unnecessary to state who ‘them’ were. After glancing down, a jolt raced through her body and Ellie reminded herself to let go, and she brushed a strand of her hair behind her ear instead.

Bruce folded his hands tightly. “I rarely think about them,” he said. His upper body slumped forward until a wayward curl fell into his forehead.

That single strand did things to her, rendering her immobile. Her fingers tingled with the compulsion to stroke it back, press her lips against that brow-creased forehead—she cut herself off, letting her hair fall like a curtain over her eyes. Taking away his allure from her sight all at once.

A barely visible smile hid in the corners of his mouth. “I can’t believe I’d nearly forgotten that memory.”

Curiosity etched itself into her features as she leaned forward on the couch. She whispered her next words carefully, afraid of breaking their fragile connection. “What do you remember?”

“I barely remember anything about her.” Deep aching longing echoed from that statement. “It’s funny how that was one of the few memories I still have of her. Mom just showed me how to do the perfect Eggs Benedict. I mean, I doubt I was much help, but…”

Surprised chuckles left Ellie’s mouth. “I’m sure she still appreciated your interest in learning something new.”

Bruce’s lips twisted into a wry smile. “Nah, during that time, my interests lay firmly with researching the Wayne family history.”

Her eyebrows arched at this small reveal of Bruce as a kid. “How come I’m not surprised by that? Who knew that you were a little geek even then?”

Bruce sent her a blank expression with the tilt of his head. “Says you.”

“Hey, easy there, buster!” She pointed at Bruce in faux accusation, her other three fingers still gripping the stem of her wine glass. “I meant it as a compliment.”

A playful smile spread across his lips before he took a hearty gulp of his drink. Ellie couldn’t help but keep her gaze fixed on the bobbing of his Adam’s apple. Like it was some sort of fascinating display of masculinity she just couldn’t ignore.

His eyes wandered to her right hand, and Ellie’s muscles tightened in her stomach when she noticed the purple bruises around her wrist.

An unspoken question shone in Bruce’s eyes which prompted Ellie to soothe his worries before he decided to get all growly on her. “Oh, that’s nothing. You don’t have to worry about me, Bruce.”

His eyes darkened and, sure enough, when he next spoke, Bruce’s voice was almost an octave lower. “Did someone hurt you?”

Of course, he would make that assumption—with those finger-shaped contusions. “Bruce. Look at me. Listen to my words. I’m fine. No one jumped me in an alley or anything. So, you can drop any additional threats you have that may or may not be aimed towards the criminals of Gotham.”

Bruce pursed his lips like he was still not satisfied with her answer but dropped it. “Okay, fine.”

“So… uh,” Ellie bit on her lower lip, “are we going to address the bat-shaped elephant in the room?” There was a part of her that just couldn’t stand this small-talk and beating around the bush any longer. Needing something for her hands to do, she lifted the wine glass to her mouth.

The sudden reminder of Bruce’s reason for being here hit them out of nowhere. He clenched his jaw and tightened his hands into fists on his knees. Now that he was here, Ellie had no idea how to start. Prior to their second reunion, she hadn’t been able to help but let possible conversation scenarios ring through her head.

Despite the resigned expression on Bruce’s face, he answered, “And here I was hoping we could avoid that for a few more minutes. I’m sorry about what happened. That I lied to you.”

The glass lingered at Ellie’s lips. If she was being honest with herself, she hadn’t expected an actual apology from him. If anything, Bruce didn’t seem the kind of guy who would ever utter the words ‘I’m sorry’ to anyone.

“Wow,” she said. “That’s—I didn’t actually think you were going to apologize.” Ellie shook her head, Strange’s face, Bruce’s face, half hidden by shadows and Damian’s pain, flashing across her mind in a sequence. “It’s not your fault for what happened. I just never wanted Damian to get hurt.”

A perplexed expression crossed his face and Bruce snorted. “I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that you have a soft spot for him.”

Ellie turned towards him as a curious sensation grew inside her. “How’s he been?”

Bruce arched his eyebrows with uncertainty and exhaled a heavy breath. “Damian’s been like… Damian. Maybe a bit more impatient than usual.”

“Listen, I understand why you didn’t tell me. But I want you to know that I would never reveal your secret to anyone. You wanted to be certain you could trust me. Maybe I was more hurt that you didn’t.”

Bruce pinched his brows. “I never wanted you to feel that way. Believe me, it wasn’t like that. I was afraid of how you would react.” A bittersweet smile played on his lips. “I’d like to believe I would’ve confided in you eventually.”

Bruce rubbed his fingers together when another thought crossed his mind. “Or you might have discovered the Batcave all on your own, and I’d have found myself explaining everything myself later on.”

Ellie rolled her eyes. “Why? Is security that lax at your place?”

He groaned, rubbing a hand down his face. “No, Alfred would’ve just shown you the entrance.”

Ellie tilted her head to one side. “Well, he kind of did, so…”

“So.” Bruce paused. “Everything okay between us?”

Slowly nodding her head, Ellie decided she felt too tired to continue holding a grudge. Her body could only contain so much bitterness. With a small smile on her face she assured him, “We’re good. So, I don’t know how to phrase this because I don’t know if I have the right to even ask, but…”

His eyebrows pinched with confusion. Perhaps a part of him was concerned she would ask him to stop this vigilante business.

As if Ellie would ever harbor such thoughts.

“What do you want to know?”

Ellie’s mouth opened before she finally uttered out loud the second reason for Bruce’s presence.

“I was wondering if it’d be okay to come over from time to time. For the boys. I know I sort of forfeited those privileges when I broke up with you, but—”

“Of course.”

A long breath whooshed out of her like a deflated balloon at Bruce’s rapid-fire response. “Really?” Ellie cocked her head to the side in surprise, her eyes widening involuntarily as the relief really hit her.

“I just don’t want to waste any more time being away from them. I miss those guys. I know it’s a weird thing to ask for.”

Bruce let out a deep chuckle. “It’s only weird that you’d willingly want to spend time with Damian.”

“You keep on complaining about your own flesh and blood, but my instinct tells me that a small part of you at least likes your son. You’re more similar than you know.”

One corner of Bruce’s lips twitched in humor. He lifted his hand in the air and pressed his thumb and index finger close together without them brushing. “Well. Maybe a very small part.”

Ellie shook her head and found herself gazing at Bruce’s sparkling eyes. Electricity danced between them and heated her up even though her body felt like it was already burning up. Chills raced up and down her arms despite the comfortable warmth in her apartment.

A vibrating sound coming from the front pocket of his pants jolted her from her thoughts and made her lean back against the couch cushions.

“Dammit. Just a second,” Bruce grunted as he pulled his phone out of his trousers.

Ellie felt the sensation of the leather couch at her neck and just waved a hand to give him the chance to pick up the call. Her lazy hand brought the glass of wine to her mouth and let the smooth and sweet liquid sink to her stomach like warm molasses.

Bruce’s long legs were next to her when he stood up and took a short glance at the display. “What now?” He muttered to himself with an annoyed voice.

He held his phone to his ear after accepting the call. “Something the matter, Queen?” he muttered sardonically. Bruce comically narrowed his eyes, his lips pursing.

Despite the low speaker function, a low angry voice filled the living room. “What do you mean by ‘what’s the matter’? How about you and your little stunt this morning, that’s what?”

Bruce’s furrowed brow revealed the agitation he was feeling. “Huh, that’s fascinating. Since you basically insinuated that I was Batman to the world!”

“Jesus, I only changed the subject by implying it.”

“Uh-huh, I merely sent you back the courtesy you had given me. Especially when you didn’t even give me a heads-up. You blindsided me with your little stunt. If you’d just told me, my PR team could have given it their own spin. But this?”

“I couldn’t control that the pictures got leaked the night before. God, you just had to make everything worse with your interview, didn’t you?”

Bruce turned around until he was facing Ellie again. For her sake, he rolled his eyes. “Well, I’m so sorry, Queen. Was it my fault that you got caught on fucking camera while wearing your Robin Hood costume? No, I don’t think so. To be honest, I can’t recall ever being implied to be the Batman or even to have incriminating footage against me. Makes me believe you’re doing something wrong in Star City. Being accused three times? That’s harsh.”

Oliver’s guttural voice increased in volume. “I can’t believe you. You undid everything I tried to save in one press statement.”

“You’re welcome,” Bruce muttered before hanging up.

A teasing smile played on Ellie’s lips, and she could totally understand the source of Bruce’s anger.

Bruce tilted his head, a tired expression taking over his face. “I swear, that guy…”

Ellie arched a daring eyebrow. “Did you just out Oliver Queen in front of me?”

Bruce rolled his eyes. “Oh please, Rhodes, give me some credit. You’ve known his alter ego since this morning. Queen wasn’t even subtle about it.”

Tagging: @mellowstatesmanhandsempath @ravenmoore14 @alwayshave-faith @ikranfuad @daydreaming-gemini @bluegalaxyprime @liadamerondjarin @steph21369 @andrewswifes-blog

A/N: I had to add more details to that Arrow scene from Season 6 (when I was still watching that show before I couldn't take it and thankfully didn't see that series getting worse) to make it more obvious that Oliver totally insinuated Bruce was Batman, lol.

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jewelt · 1 year

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#7 fates chakho #batman fanfiction #bruce wayne #damian wayne #dick grayson #jason todd fanfiction #red hood #tim drake #batmom oc #batman #bnha oc #bnha au #bts cameo #red hood imagine #red robin

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bluebellhairpin · 2 years

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pov; you're a Gotham villain and look up just after you somehow beat the shit out of Batman and his sidekicks.

#im hoping that the outline there is like actually noticable #bc i literally redid valentines hero suit for this and im very happy w/ the new design #you cant see much else except the outline so idk but yeah #nemo draws #valentine #batman oc #fanart #dc fanart #batmom #the adventures of batmom

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akairawrites · 5 months

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Born for conflict | Jason Todd mini series

Next ⇒

Taglist

@ella-fella-bo-bella @ayoitsurfavdesigurl @luvvvjada @harleycao @aiq39 @420sprite @stvrfir3 @instabull @lumineliax @rukia-uchiha-98 @1lellykins @skyesayshi @imarimone12 @mysticalhills @deliciousfatblackcat @4arancia @bat-h-tic @luvelyxp @urmomsbananabread @strawberrycreamb @dollceesstuff @just-reading-dany @godknows-shetried @that-levi-kenma-kinnie @cascadingbliss @solaris-love @bbiaa420 @roxanne-loves-Luffy @mess-in-side @jasontoddsthickthigh @lilupie @Crystals-faith

"Again!" The instructor's command echoed through the training room, prompting Y/n to forcefully strike the punching bag.

"Again!" he repeated, and she delivered another powerful blow.

"Again!" This time, her hit caused the punching bag to nearly fly off the hook, ripping open as sand spilled out. Stepping back, she released an exhausted huff, her eyes seeking the instructor for further guidance.

His usual expressionless glare met hers. "Get cleaned up. There's someone I want you to meet over dinner." Nodding in acknowledgment, she watched as he exited the room, leaving her to tend to her bruised and bloody hands on a nearby bench.

Seated, she unwrapped her hands, clenching her fists as she observed the bruising forming over her knuckles. Not wanting to keep her Instructor waiting, she stood and headed for the door, determined to clean up and face whatever awaited her.

After a soothing shower to ease her sore muscles, she dressed and made her way to the dining hall. It exuded an unusual elegance, hinting at the significance of the impending meeting. The dimly lit room, adorned with candles, filled with the aroma of cooking food. Taking a seat at the far end of the table, she prepared for the encounter, usually beside her instructor, who occupied the end of the table.

Mere seconds after settling into her seat, the instructor entered, flanked by three men—one adorned with a black mask, presumably his two bodyguards. Y/n refrained from lifting her gaze from her plate, avoiding eye contact with the skull-like masked man who took a place at the far end, while her instructor occupied the other end beside her. The remaining two men positioned themselves behind the Black Mask.

A silence enveloped the room until the instructor finally spoke.

"Y/n, meet The Black Mask."

Huh.

"This is the sweet girl I’ve heard so much about."

His words sent a shiver down her spine; there was an ominous undertone, a hint of death in his voice that resonated clearly in the quiet dining hall.

Turning to meet The Black Mask's gaze sent shivers down Y/n's spine; his intense stare already fixed upon her.

"Y/n," her instructor's voice broke the unsettling eye contact. The look in his eyes tried to conceal an emotion.

"The Black Mask will be taking you. He has offered a great deal of money because you are one of the best."

A lump formed in her throat. While she anticipated this eventuality, the abruptness caught her off guard. At fourteen, she still had much training ahead.

"As of tomorrow, you will be working for him," he declared. She looked down at her untouched food, her voice steady. "I understand."

"Pack your things. You leave in an hour."

Without hesitation, she rose from her seat and swiftly exited the dimly lit dining hall, leaving behind the weight of an unforeseen destiny.

Exactly an hour later, Y/n stood before the place she once called home. The memories flooded back – the awe of arriving, the enormity of the building, the initial sense of feeling like a princess for a moment.

Handing her bags to a guard from before, she observed as they were tossed into the trunk of a black limousine. Just as she was about to follow, a familiar hand rested on her shoulder. Looking up, her instructor met her gaze.

"Be safe," he advised. "Remember, leaving home opens a new journey for you. Each step is a new chapter in your own story."

Nodding in acknowledgment, Y/n proceeded toward the waiting limo, where The Black Mask awaited. Through the window, she watched her instructor disappear from sight. Once he was entirely gone, she sank back into the seat, exhaling a sigh, unprepared for the long journey ahead.

5 years later

Black Mask seethed with rage at his desk. “Are you telling me the scumbag stole my guns? Again?” he bellowed, surrounded by his assistant and four henchmen.

“No, sir. He destroyed them. Blew up the truck and the drivers,” his assistant calmly explained. “He was enlisting anyone under our province, now he's just killing them,”

Black Mask slammed his hands on the desk, frustrated by his inability to stop the mysterious Red Hood. "So what is he, Batman?"

“No, sir. He's not Batman,” she replied, maintaining a calm expression. “He’s still taking cuts off the streets but eliminating the competition. He's targeting you.”

Fuming, Black Mask growled and flipping his desk over. “You wanna tell me why this guy isn't dead?” he demanded, he walked up to his henchmen and punched each one in the face out of anger.

“We're trying. We sent the Fearsome Hand of Four,” she stated, though she knew it wouldn't be enough.

Looking out at Gotham, Black Mask turned to his assistant. “You don't know Batman. He won't let this lunatic run wild. He can't catch him, or it's something else.”

“Can't you feel it?” he asked, but before she could respond, a red dot appeared on his neck. Panicking, he saw Red Hood on the building, holding a rocket launcher.

“Oh, hell,” he muttered, before turning around and bolting out of his office his assistant followed right behind him. Mere seconds later he pulled the trigger and sent an explosion through the building causing the fire exit to fly off the hinges and crash into the wall. Black Mask ducked just in time.

He stood up and held his neck which would have been taken off by the door if he hadn't moved in time “Okay time to change up the ground war.”

“How so, sir?” his assistant inquired.

“I’m being forced into negotiating with a psychotic,” he admitted. “And there's one person in mind who I think can take on this Red Hood. Bring me Y/n.”

Add yourself to my taglist here

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