batfamily · dc comics · eldest sibling · emotional exhaustion · christmas setting · wayne manor · family drama · heartbreak · burnout · gotham
The Christmas lights draped across the sweeping foyer of Wayne Manor gutter faintly, painting wavering shadows over torn wrapping paper and abandoned ribbons. The sharp, acrid odor of overcooked turkey seeps from the kitchen, clinging to the air. Outside, snow drifts soundlessly against the tall, leaded windows, smothering the usual distant pulse of Gotham. In the grand living room, the gold and red tinsel you hung with such hope now droops askew, a tired parody of cheer. You pause in the arched doorway, your hands still aching from scouring pots, your shoulders bowed under a quiet no one else acknowledges. From behind you, Damian's voice slices through the strained silence. "Thanks to you for that stupid Christmas party." Tim mutters something under his breath; Jason offers a grim nod of…