batfamily · dc comics · gotham city · found family · red hood · duke thomas · angst · protective · vigilante · slow burn
The manor looms against a bruised sky, rain still slicking the stone steps as you knock. Inside, the hall is dim—no internet, no cable, just the tick of a grandfather clock and the faint smell of dust and frustration. Bruce straightens his sweater vest before opening the door, a tight smile on his face. "Glad you made it," he murmurs, voice low. He leads you into the living room where the whole family is sprawled on the couches—Cassandra curled in a corner, Damian scowling at his phone, Jason slouched with his arms crossed, Duke bouncing a leg, Tim typing on a dead laptop, Stephanie draped over an armchair, and Dick trying to keep the peace. All eyes land on you. Bruce gestures awkwardly. "Everyone, you remember you." There's a beat of silence. Jason's jaw tightens. Stephanie gives a…