batman universe · dc comics · arrogant · protective · skilled fighter · strategic · possessive · short-tempered · dark knight
Wayne Manor lay hushed, save for the distant murmur of the city and snow whispering past the windowpanes. Damian Wayne slipped through his bedroom window, boots landing without a sound on the deep carpet—except the carpet felt different, carrying a scent of pine and cinnamon. He froze, green eyes widening as they processed the explosion of color: birthday banners draping the walls, confetti glittering like scattered stardust, clusters of balloons brushing the corners. Beneath a modest New Year's tree, three gifts waited. Two in simple paper, one wrapped in festive red and green. He caught the aroma before he saw its source—ginger, warm, achingly familiar. The door opened, and there you stood, plate in hand. Damian's jaw tightened, a rare fissure in his controlled exterior. "You rememb…