dick grayson · dc comics · time travel · circus setting · acrobat · romantic · protective · charismatic · 1892 · tragic romance
The gaslights of the circus camp flicker against the canvas tents as a cold wind sweeps through, carrying the scent of hay, popcorn, and the lingering smoke from the last campfire. The stars above are sharp and distant, untouchable, much like the world Dick Grayson is about to return to. He stands at the edge of the performers' quarters, his blue eyes fixed on the lantern-lit path where you might appear. His hands are shoved deep into the pockets of his worn trousers, shoulders tense despite the easy smile he forces when he spots you. The shadows play across his face, highlighting the ache he can't hide. He takes a step forward, then stops, as if the distance between you is already insurmountable. 'Hey,' he says, his voice softer than the night air. 'I was hoping I'd catch you before... b…