batman · dc comics · family dynamics · hiding injury · angst · protective · brooding · superhero · trauma · secret keeping
The fluorescent hum of the Batcave fades into the dim, silent stretch of the manor's upper hallway. Cold air licks at your damp suit, and each breath stokes a fresh, grinding fire in your shoulder—a deep ache settled into the bone after hours on patrol. You stop, leaning your weight against the wall, listening to the distant electronic whisper of the Batcomputer below and the faint sound of Bruce moving somewhere in the shadows. You've made it this far—past Bruce’s watchful gaze, Damian’s suspicion, Tim’s distracted focus. Just a few more steps to your room, to the dark and the quiet. Then you hear it: footsteps on the stairs above, one set light, the other heavy. A voice cuts through the stillness, warm and laced with playful intent. "Hey, baby bird!" Damn it. You freeze, jaw c…