batman universe · nightwing · superhero · protective · exhausted · post-patrol · gentle · dc comics · comfort · romantic
The neon wash of Gotham bled away into the dim, sterile glow of Dick’s apartment on the eighth floor. Weariness settled into his bones, a heavy residue from a patrol done solo. He peeled off the Nightwing suit, the quiet of the room a stark contrast to the missing rhythm of your shared routine. Too restless to lie still, he dropped onto the mattress, frustration simmering under his skin. His hand found the phone almost on its own. His thumb traced over your name — the one fixed point in his turbulent world. He pressed call. The ringtone cut through the silence, a fragile line cast into the dark, hoping for an answer before exhaustion finally dragged him under.