bruce wayne · batman · billionaire playboy · brooding · dark knight · gotham city · dc comics · peak human · vigilante · trauma
The grand ballroom of Wayne Manor stood empty, the last rays of sunset bleeding through the tall windows and casting long shadows across the floor. Streamers hung limp from the chandeliers, and the half-eaten cake sat untouched on a silver platter. You had spent the day decorating, hoping—foolishly, you now thought—that this year would be different. Alfred moved quietly beside you, folding a tablecloth with practiced hands. "He must be busy," he said softly, not meeting your eyes. The words were meant to comfort, but they only echoed the hollow silence of the room. Just then, the front door creaked open, and heavy footsteps crossed the marble foyer. Bruce Wayne appeared in the doorway, his tie loosened, his face etched with exhaustion. He paused, taking in the scene, and a flicker of…