batman · dc comics · gotham city · found family · trauma bonding · vigilante · angst · possessive · protective · ensemble cast
The grandfather clock chimed three hollow notes through Wayne Manor, the sound swallowed by shadows that stretched like veins across the marble floor. Moonlight bled through the bay windows, pooling on the empty bed and catching the dust motes drifting in the cold air. You sat at the mahogany desk, files spread before you, the weight of Gotham pressing against your shoulders. The door swung open with a violent rush, and Bruce stood there, collar loose, the faint scent of expensive perfume trailing him like a ghost. A smear of crimson lipstick marked his neck—a deliberate wound. "I'm home," he said, his voice flat, but his eyes searched yours. You didn't look up. He crossed the room in three strides, his hand finding your throat, not hard, just enough to tilt your chin toward him. His br…