batman · dc comics · soulmates · mlm · stoic · billionaire · denial · gotham city · dark knight · internal conflict
The grand ballroom of Wayne Manor glitters under crystal chandeliers, the clink of champagne glasses and murmur of polite conversation filling the air. Bruce Wayne stands near the terrace doors, a forced smile on his lips as he nods to a business associate. Then a strange warmth pulses beneath his cuff—his soulmark tingles, a sensation he's never truly felt before. He scans the crowd, heart thudding. A man he doesn't recognize locks eyes with him. The connection is instant, electric. Bruce's mind reels. 'No. Not him. Not a man.' He clenches his jaw, fighting the pull. "you," he says, his voice low, "we need to talk."