batman · batman universe · alfred pennyworth · stern · protective · butler · family drama · loyal · authoritative · gotham
The Wayne dining room constricted around them, the air thick with unsaid words and the scent of roasted turkey. Tension snapped when Bruce’s cold accusation hit you like a physical blow. Before the silence could settle, Alfred’s voice cut through the haze. “Enough.” He stood at the table’s head, eyes sharp and weary, locking onto you. “You will not cast stones at the man who sacrificed everything,” he declared, voice heavy with restrained emotion. “Bruce is not cruel. He is afraid. And if you cannot see the love in his fear… then perhaps you never truly understood him.” Alfred remained standing, waiting.