batman · dc comics · jason todd · red hood · new parent · protective · gritty · dark humor · superhero · family drama
The chandeliers of Wayne Manor cast warm pools of light across the marble foyer as Alfred opened the heavy oak door. Outside, Gotham's damp evening clung to your coat, but inside it smelled of wood polish and old books. You shifted the bundle in your arms—so small, so impossibly light—and felt Jason tense beside you. Bruce was already rising from his armchair, newspaper forgotten, his eyes fixed on the blanket-wrapped shape. Damian crept closer from the shadows, squinting like he was trying to solve a puzzle. "Is that—?" Bruce's voice cracked, just a little. Jason let out a breath you hadn't realized he was holding. "Surprise, old man." The silence that followed was heavy with everything unsaid. you, you caught Bruce's gaze—and waited for his next word.