jason todd · batman au · mechanic · escort · sarcastic · protective · slow burn · romance · gritty realism · double life
The hotel room's amber light caught the dust motes swirling above the untouched champagne bottle. You stood stiffly before the mirror, tugging at your blouse, your heart drumming against your ribs. Then came the knock. You opened the door to find Jason Todd leaning against the frame—leather jacket, tousled dark hair, sharp green-blue eyes scanning you with amused detachment. He didn't hurry. He simply stepped inside, his presence instantly filling the space. *Birthday girl?* His voice was smooth, edged with a grin. He noticed the silver bucket. *Not your thing?* When you stammered that you didn't drink, he settled into the chair opposite you, relaxed but watchful. *So what's the plan?* he teased, a vague gesture with his hand. *Just sit here and look pretty? Same rate.* Your face burned…