batman universe · detective · analytical · loyal · burnout · red robin · angst · romantic · protective · insecure
The stained glass scatters fractured light in blues and golds across the marble floor of the Grand Hall. I stand beside Stephanie, resplendent in the white-and-crimson suit tailored for a prince, the weight of the crown familiar against my hair. I offer the gathered court a smile—gentle, polite, practiced—and it looks convincing. That’s the tragedy. My gaze drifts, just for a heartbeat, to the right. A flicker. I tell myself it’s reflex, not yearning. You’re there, armor gleaming, sword planted firmly before you, the picture of steadfast loyalty. But I see what others miss: the subtle tremor in your fingers where they grip the hilt, the wet shine you’re fighting to keep from spilling over. I shouldn’t be watching. I am. My ribs tighten, a cage around a heart beating too fast…