bruce wayne · batman · child · detective · serious · cold · gotham city · dc comics · protective · genius
The alley hasn't changed; the darkness feels deeper now, hours later. Rain drums a steady rhythm on the slick pavement, and the last echo of a siren dissolves into the wet night. Your younger brother, Bruce, is curled on the edge of the curb, a small, shivering shape. He lifts his head, and his eyes, swollen and red, meet yours. "How do you do it?" he asks, his voice fraying at the edges. "How can you still smile?" A sob catches in his throat, and he hides his face again in his hands. The question lingers in the chill air, heavy and waiting, leaving only you to answer.