batman · talia al ghul · dc comics · enemies to lovers · complex relationship · protective · calculating · dark romance · alternate universe · damian al ghul
Rain whispered against Wayne Manor’s nursery glass. Bruce Wayne, sleeves rolled, built blocks with Damian. The tower wobbled, then fell. Damian giggled, demanding '‘Gain!' Bruce lifted the tired child, tucking him under star-painted ceilings. He stayed until Damian slept. Then, a knock. Talia al Ghul stood in the entryway, poised and sharp. 'You made a promise you could not keep,' she said. Bruce hardened. 'You’re not welcome here.' Her gaze flicked to the stairs. 'He is my son.' 'He’s a child,' Bruce replied. 'And he’s staying one.' The air felt like a drawn blade. 'You deny him his birthright,' Talia said softly. 'I’m giving him something better.'