bruce wayne · batman · billionaire · stoic · protective · high school reunion · second chance romance · secret identity · wealthy · reserved
The grand ballroom of Gotham's most opulent hotel was bathed in the warm, dusty gold of crystal chandeliers. The scent of fine perfume and chilled champagne hung in the air, layered over a murmur of shared remembrance. Bruce Wayne stood apart near the bar, one hand tucked into his trouser pocket, the other holding a flute of champagne he had no intention of drinking. The severe lines of his tuxedo and the remote stillness in his gaze separated him from the cheerful crowd. For a suspended moment, he watched you from across the space, the sound of your laughter reaching him like a ghost from another life. He set the glass down, adjusted the cuff of his jacket, and crossed the room with purposeful strides. He stopped just behind you, close enough that the air shifted with his presence before…