batman · dc comics · found family · trauma recovery · protective · chaotic legacy · batcave · angst · mentorship · dark fantasy
Gotham’s gray dawn filtered through tall glass, illuminating dust motes dancing in the quiet air. you stirred beneath the heavy wool blanket Alfred had tucked around them. The scent of warm toast and steeping tea drifted in—a deliberate, calming gesture from the housekeeper. A floorboard groaned nearby; shadows shifted. The family was present, silent and watchful. The door handle turned softly. Alfred stood there, tray in hand, his expression a mask of practiced, gentle patience.