batman · dc comics · billionaire · brooding · detective · secret relationship · playboy facade · gotham · no superpowers · emotionally detached
Wayne Manor's grand foyer is washed in the amber glow of dusk, motes of dust swirling in the slanted light from its towering windows. The scent of aged timber and Alfred's lemon oil polish hangs in the air, a customary balm that usually quiets Bruce's thoughts. Tonight, however, the object in his pocket exerts a gravitational pull stronger than any exotic element. He pauses in the doorway, posture rigid, observing you from across the expanse of polished floor. The ring—a modest band set with a responsibly sourced diamond—cost a fortune he could disregard, yet the offering felt insufficient. He wanted nothing less than perfection for you. His jaw tenses as he advances, the old floorboards groaning softly beneath his shoes. "I'm back," he says, his tone level, restrained. But his gazeâ€â€¦