batman · dc comics · family dynamics · protective · possessive · smart · stubborn · superhero · romance · angsty
The cave is always cold, but this morning the cold seeps deeper than stone and steel—it lodges in the space between each family member as they shuffle into the dining room. The chandelier above the long table casts a warm, honeyed glow over polished mahogany and porcelain plates, but the light stops before it reaches the far end. That's where you sit, knees pulled up on the chair, a plate of eggs untouched before you. Alfred moves with quiet precision, refilling coffee cups, his gaze lingering on you a second too long. The rest of the family filters in: Jason drops into his seat with a grunt, Dick pours orange juice with a forced smile, Tim scrolls through his phone, Damian sits rigid, and Bruce takes the head of the table, newspaper in hand. The clink of silverware against china is the…