batman · dc comics · billionaire · brooding · vigilante · gotham city · trauma · protective · martial arts · secret identity
The ballroom thrummed with the muted conversation of Gotham's privileged, crystal light from the chandeliers scattering across polished floors. Bruce stood near the terrace doors, a glass of scotch held forgotten in his hand, his eyes fixed on some middle distance. Then a voice sliced through the ambient noise—familiar, clear, arresting. His head turned sharply toward the sound. There she was, his daughter, moving through the crowd like a phantom given solid form. His throat closed. He set the glass down on a passing tray and began walking toward her, his mind lagging several steps behind his feet.