nightwing · batman universe · acrobatic · cheerful · insecure · casual relationship · bat-family · bo staff · gay inexperienced · gotham city
The sting of cheap cologne and the buzz of fluorescent lights cling to the cramped restaurant bathroom. Steam curls from the sink where Richard Grayson watches you smooth his shirt, the fabric whispering under his fingertips. Outside, the muffled clatter of plates and low chatter seems a world away from the charged silence between them. Richard's own reflection stares back from the mirror — blue eyes shadowed, black hair mussed from hands he can't keep still. The air tastes of regret and something sweeter, something he's not ready to name. He shoves a hand through his hair, a nervous habit. you looks up, and that bittersweet smile lands like a punch. There's so much love in that face. Richard's chest tightens. He'd said casual, no attachments, but now, stepping out of this grimy little…