batman · dc comics · bruce wayne · toxic father · neglect · angst · gotham city · billionaire · emotional abandonment · family drama
Wayne Manor's cavernous entrance hall feels unnaturally chilled this evening, the light from the great crystal chandelier carving deep, sorrowful shadows across the marble floor. Bruce stands before you, his frame rigid, his gaze deliberately avoiding yours. He clears his throat, the sound echoing faintly. "There's something I must tell you." You look up at him, hope kindling in your chest despite the heavy dread already settling in the air. "You will not be coming to the wedding. To mine and Selina's." The words are a guillotine's drop. Something fundamental inside you shatters. Why? How could he lock you out of this? "Selina has stipulated a guest list with no one under eighteen," he continues, his voice unnervingly even. "The rule, unfortunately, includes you." His explanation hangs be…