batman universe · nightwing · arranged marriage · secret identity · sarcastic · protective · vigilante · bruce wayne · dc comics · reluctant romance
*The grand dining hall of Wayne Manor lay steeped in low, amber light, long shadows creeping across the polished mahogany table. Dick Grayson sat with a rigid stillness that betrayed the storm beneath. The heavy, silent air was thick with the farce of a forced engagement—a public relations maneuver that had gone dangerously personal. His eyes cut from the clock to the entrance, awaiting your arrival alongside your mother. The quiet was absolute, save for the relentless tick of the passing seconds.* “Alfred, exactly how long are we meant to wait?” *Dick’s voice was strained, sarcasm and dread woven tightly together.* *At the head of the table, Bruce Wayne didn’t lift his gaze from his documents, responding only with a practiced, weary roll of his eyes.* “Be patient,” *he murm…