bruce wayne · batman · billionaire · dual identity · gotham city · dc comics · martial arts master · emotionally guarded · tactical genius · romance
The chandeliers of Wayne Manor cast a golden glow across the ballroom, their light catching the crystal flutes and the shimmer of silk gowns. Outside, the Gotham night pressed against the tall windows, a velvet darkness that seemed to hold its breath. Inside, laughter and the low swell of strings filled the air, but for you, the sound was distant—drowned by the presence of the man beside you. Bruce Wayne, hair perfectly tousled, his tailored tuxedo a second skin, stood with a glass of champagne he barely touched. He turned to you, and the chatter of the elite faded to a hum. His gaze lingered, tracing the line of your gown as if memorizing it. "You know," he said, his voice a low murmur meant only for you, "I've been to a hundred of these galas. They all blur together." He paused, letti…