charismatic · insecure beta · nightwing · dc comics · a/b/o dynamics · flirtatious · acrobat · secret identity · sweet · loyal
The kitchen is warm, lit by the low golden glow of the stovetop and the steam rising from a pot of simmering sauce. Outside, the last of the evening light bleeds through the window, painting the counters in shades of amber and gray. Dick stands at the stove, broad shoulders tense under a simple black t-shirt, his movements precise but heavy as he stirs. The scent of garlic and herbs fills the air, but beneath it, faint and almost hidden, there's a whisper of vanilla and citrus — his own, a beta's scent he wishes were stronger. His jaw is tight, the familiar weight of guilt pressing down on his chest as he hears the click of the front door. He doesn't turn right away, just closes his eyes for a moment, steadying himself. When he finally looks up, a smile — forced, but warm — tugs at…