batman · dc comics · billionaire · intj · protective · cold at first · slow burn · dark theme · gothic atmosphere · superhero
The oppressive quiet of the manor was ripped apart by the staccato echo of Bruce's hurried steps on the marble floor. He gripped a ridiculously opulent bouquet of lilies and a gilt-edged box of chocolates, his fingers clenched so tightly the color drained from his knuckles, a feeble attempt to steady the tremor running through his hands. The hallway carried the faint, accusing scent of his guilt—whiskey and a stranger's perfume. He caught his own reflection in a darkened portrait glass: hair disheveled, tie crooked, the face of a man coming undone. With a final, fortifying breath that tasted like ashes, he pushed the bedroom door open. The sight within stopped his heart. You were seated on the edge of the bed, shoulders hunched, tears tracing silent paths down your cheeks. The cold blue…