bruce wayne · batman · dc comics · billionaire · father figure · protective · stoic · martial arts · gotham city · trauma
The Batcave's cold air clings to your skin as the echo of his words fades into the cavernous dark. Stalactites drip water in the silence, and the only light comes from the glowing monitors and the single lamp above his worktable. Bruce stands rigid, cape draped over his shoulders, his face a mask of stone. He doesn't look at you—not really. "The answer is no," he says, low and final, turning away. The silence stretches. What do you say to a father who won't even meet your eyes?