• A hot new bombshell enters the villa•

Jason Todd x Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - When the house for two becomes a house for three, jealousy starts to arise Word count - 1.2k

With your boyfriend out of the apartment- busy fixing his bike with Roy, you had the entirety of the comfy bed to yourself. Stretched out on the plush comforter as you nosey yourself on whatever show you had became engrossed in, unaware of the rousing noise that echoed below you on the dark streets of Gotham.

Living in Gotham wasn't the best predicament to find yourself, truthfully with the rent so cheap you couldn't complain and with being able to find such a peaceful living environment with Jason- neither could complain.

Jason had found an ordinary, a constant within his raging mind, a solace in a world so hurried. Frankly he was just happy to be able to sleep in the same bed as you, to find familiarity within the cramped kitchen as the steam intertwines the both of you like a shielded wall from the dangers of his past,, to wake every morning with you by his side. You were the blessing of his life that all those years on the streets he had spent cold, hungry, and hurt, he had never expected to have been so lucky as to recieve.

Moving the many piles of your heavy brown boxes filled with your possessions into the empty, bare apartment those few months ago had been a time he had never forgotten, whether from the deep pit that had formed in his stomach as he glanced between the light boxes of his own compared to your own, how you had intertwined your hand with his own, spinning your body to his front as you attempt to block the image that had flushed his ears pink with embarrassment, it had been the start of it all, the 'revival' of Jason Todd.

However life was not a picturesque fairy tale, happy endings did not exist for Jason Todd- he knew that very well.

It seemed that your towering apartment above the crowded streets couldn't protect you from the rising murky waters of crime, too enwrapped in the rehearsed dialogue of the displayed reality tv show on the standing tv that wobbled on your shared dresser with every shut of a door, too relaxed to hear the thudding steps of danger nearing your door.

He should've known, he should've been there, Gotham was no place for the untrained person, no place for the isolated party of one.

Maybe things would've been different if he hadn't left, if you had been more aware of where you lived, if you understood the true nature of Gotham.

They grew closer to the front door, the resounding 'boom' of their feet was certainly not a sound of safety.

Doomed with their short height their hand trying to grasp the cold metal handle turns to thumping their body against the hard wood and eventually ends in defeat as they raise a fist to knock a brisk sign of finality.

Quirking your brows you slip yourself out of the warmth of bed, your feet padding to the door as you wonder who could be waiting for you on the other side, it couldn't be Jason- he had his own key after all, and truthfully you hadn't gotten around to inviting anyone over.

A smarter person would've hurriedly switched the lights on, hid under the bed and pretend no one was home, yet being who you were you made your way straight to the door, opening it wide as you stare in confusion at the empty sight.

'Do people even ding dong ditch anymore? Is that a thing anymore?'

A plush hit to your leg alerted you of your visitor, pulling you out of your thoughts as you glance downwards, aggressive eyes staring up at you.

"..This can't be real."

Stooping downwards you kneel to their miniscule height of six inches, you couldn't believe just what stood in front of you. You were confident you hadn't taken anything, yet you could feel that confidence slipping as you stare at the shockingly round teddy bear that sat at your door- practically shaking in anger.

"Is.. what.."

Dumbfounded at the shockingly fat figure of your boyfriend's persona of Red Hood no words of sense could leave your mouth.

Mistaking his furious shaking as being cold you confusedly invite him in, trying to hold your laughter at the slow waddling he moved with, he would honestly have moved faster if he had began rolling with his perfectly round body.

He had appeared from nowhere and had won you over without uttering a single word, just who exactly was this outlandish plushie?

Standing by the 'tall' cushioned sofas, glaring at you as he tilts his head at you, signalling like an agitated puppy for you to lift him upwards, and you did as he commanded.

Sitting with an air of arrogance as he observes the homely apartment, zoning in to a framed photo of a fiery summer day as Starfire, Roy and Jason hold you sideways, the beaming smiles plastered on all your faces was a sensation like no other, it was a day you had treasured with people you would call your own, friends like no other. Yet with the bash of his fist against the decorative pillows you had sworn were worth it to Jason, it was clear your unexpected guest did not share the same adoration for the blurry unfocused photo, a dark growl emitting from lips he didn't have.

Awkward silence stretched between you as you tap your fingers on the wobbly coffee table you had been meaning to fix since forever, what exactly were you meant to say to the strangely entitled, fat plushie of your boyfriend that could waddle around?

It was clear he had came with a plan, an agenda that had something to do with Jason, just what exactly had he done to enrage such a cute thing? Teddy? Well, whatever he was he was staying, you were sure of that as you gently pat his soft head.

Both of your attentions were captured by the opening door of the tense apartment as the larger Jason makes his way in, a pleasant smile making its way onto his face as the chubby Jason tries to make himself seen over the large back of the sofa.

Grasping your face as he leans in to press a soft kiss to your awaiting lips, unaware of the crashing ball that throws itself onto him, hitting him straight on the chest as it comically bounces off him, rolling onto the floor.

"What the hell was that??"

Practically jumping over the sofa to stare in astonishment at the writhing ball trying pathetically to stand up like a flipped turtle, squinting closer as he recognises the familiar pattern of... himself?

"Who.. what- what on Earth is this thing? Did you let it in??"

Unfortunately Jason hadn't learned from just a few seconds ago as he turns his back to the small ball of fury who had once again managed to launch himself with such an astounding strength it was almost applaudable. Whatever this otherworldly being was, it was clear he had plans with your boyfriend.

What exactly had Jason gotten himself into?

• House Tour •

Clark Kent x Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - After introducing Clark to tomodachi life, he makes it his duty for both your carefully crafted mii's to get married. Word count - 1.1k

It was humorous to watch the towering man of Clark sit comfortably in the reclined sofa you had splurged a couple months ago on, the visual image of his large, unmeasured hands that could move buildings, bring two crumbling sections of land together and hold the impossible weight of the world like a piece of cake holding a small second hand ds was something you never expected to see.

The metallic reflection of the ruby red ds made so much sense as your loving boyfriend works in total concentration, brows furrowed, pink tongue peaking from between his lips, beads of sweat dripping from his glistening forehead. Okay that last part wasn't true, but with the immense devotion he served the retro ds, it could've been.

Clark had always been a man of honour, a man who devoted his everything to his work- not only as Clark Kent, the renowned reporter, but as well as Superman, the hero of the skies, a man you knew you wanted to spend the rest of your days with.

You could almost picture it in your head, the miles of farming land that surrounded your humble home, standing within the humid house as you glance out the window, watching the muscles tense in your husband's shirtless back as he lifts mountains of work- was the heat rising to your face from the busted heater of your apartment or the little daydream you had just created?

Anyways you knew what you wanted, you were ninety-nine percent confident that Clark wanted that life too, you had met his parent, been to his childhood farm, I mean he even told you he was Superman for crying out loud, yet stupid as it was, there was still one percent of your mind left in doubt over the bare ring finger you had.

Not wanting to disturb the concentrated rhythmic tap of your boyfriend's large fingers clashing with the screen you wander to the kitchen, aimlessly glancing around the deep green cupboards as you scour for anything to make. As you wait for the whirring hiss of the kettle to simmer down your mind strays far away, the past thoughts returning as you stare through the window, the sights of giggling couples who cornered in the gaps of alleyways as they lean in to whisper a joke to the other in hopes of hearing their laughter like an awaiting jester to the king, older families passing by, mothers and fathers holding the hands of their beaming child as they swing with delight, fathers and dads waiting patiently for the tall crossing lights to glow green as their children shuffle on their feet impatiently, mothers and mamas cosied up on a wooden bench as they watch the passing clouds emerge from the sky. You wondered if that was what the future held for you and Clark, a domestic life of simplicity, no worries evident on your faces as you watch the leisure's of life pass you by.

Eventually the kitchen had gone quiet as you snap your attention back to the silent kettle, gently pouring yourself a serving as you saunter back into the cosy living room.

"I made tea Clark, there's enough for you."

Barely lifting his head he nods a yes, his attention fully drawn to the ds you had bought for him on his birthday. It had been a random buy you were quite confident he would treasure simply because it was from you- but not actually use it, he was too busy for that. Yet you had been proven wrong, there had only been one game downloaded on the small device that you had never heard much about, but since it came free with the ds you sure as hell weren't deleting it. From the moment you had curled into his warm, toned, hairy chest in the solitude of your bed that same morning, he had already been wide awake, his hands working tirelessly on the comically small screen, shying it away from your peering eyes as a flush of pink curled on his tanned cheeks. It had been like that the entire day, no matter how sneaky you tried to be as you attempted to catch a glimpse of whatever he seemed so focus of, he would scurry away, proclaiming that 'It's not ready yet!', whatever that meant.

Grasping the now two mugs of tea you tread lightly, now was your moment. If you played your cards right he would be too wrapped up in his ridiculous game to hear your padded steps- assuming you were still in the kitchen he would never so much as think you were behind him, eavesdropping on his 'gaming session' that he had become alarmingly obsessed with.

Slowly, one foot in front of another you made your way to the small room, you could hear the clacks of keys as he worked hard, the constant rhythm of his focused breathing, the illuminated screen just barely out of sight.

One step more and you could see it all, zoning in on his hard work, you tried not to drop the ceramic mugs as your audible gasp gives your ninja work away.

But it was too late for Clark, the gig was up.

"Was that me Clark? Let me see it again!"

The embarrassed laughter of your own made Clark want to melt into the cushioned sofa, he could feel his face going beat red as he hides away, trying to hold the source of mortification away from your reach, but unfortunately for him he could never say no to you as you squirm your way into his caged arms, plopping yourself down onto his lap as if you owned the place as you glance up at him, your face a sight of pleasure, like a cat who had been given too much milk.

"Show me! C'mon don't be embarrassed it looked so cute!"

How could he say no to your gleaming eyes and ecstatic grin, swallowing his pride he cautiously opened the ds, displaying the screen of two characters residing in an almost perfect replica of your own apartment.

You immediately recognised one as yourself and the other as Clark, who seemed to have been trying to 'court' your character to no success as the little mii of yourself sassily walked away as little Clark threw his head down in sadness.

A sense of relief flooded your system as you come to terms of what had engrossed all of Clark's devotion, it made you smile as you realise the sappy plan he had made- he had been trying to marry you.. in tomodachi..?

"Am I.. am I wearing a Superman sweater? Seriously Clark, narcissistic much?"

• Make you purple all over •

Jason Todd x Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - When his one and only begs him to dress as Nightwing for Halloween, he can't help but feel jealous Word count - 800 ᯓ‎𝄞 ˎˊ˗ needy - Ariana Grande

It was rare for Jason to find days off, to have a night of relaxation rather than scouring the town of Gotham. You understood he was a busy man consumed by his job, but was it wrong for you to want to spend Halloween like all other couples?

Skimming through the countless ideas of countless costumes, your eyes remained trained on the simple photo of Nightwing, the straining costume displayed every manicured muscle you knew Jason could match with, the mental image you had created of Jason standing in all his glory donning the fabulous costume confirmed your secret plot of costumes, now you just had to get Jason to agree- and with how head over heels he was for you- you just knew he would agree.

"No."

"Just imagine how- .. what..?"

Your mouth dropped into a shocked 'o', stunned to silence at the firm rejection of your boyfriend, a man who found guilty pleasure with pleasing your every idea.

"I'm not dressing up as Nightwing of all people, I don't even look remotely like him."

"So? You would look ten times better than him! Swear!"

Hurrying forward to the edge of the bed where Jason stood after he arrived back from 'work' you clasp your hands together, pulling your best puppy eye face as you try to make him agree to your harmless idea.

Harmless to you- yet a blow to Jason's ego. He loved you, he truly loved you with all his heart, the day he locked eyes on you he knew the pair of you were meant to be. He just.. hadn't gotten around to telling you of his secret identity, the life he underwent to keep you safe.

"It's not about that, it's just.. he's not even that cool of a guy."

A lot of other words he could use to describe his brother circled his mind, yet he couldn't stand there and preach his petty annoyance about his brother you weren't even aware about- he refused to let his words shatter your pleading expression.

"So? C'mon we both know you'd look smoking hot!"

Cringing at your own words you grab hold of his tensed arm, shaking it like a dog with a bone as you try to desperately make him agree.

The brash tone of your boyfriend- someone who would never hurt a fly had set something off withing you, a sense of suspicion plaguing your mind at the unwavering defiance over something so miniscule, it was just a costume, what was the big deal?

Watching as he turned his back to you as he began to get changed your expression somehow managed to fall even more, you had expected a soft night with your boyfriend, intertwined under a blanket as you both plan sappy costumes together, not an awkward silence spreading between the pair of you.

Thoughts spiralled through your mind as you dazed off, unaware of the approaching figure of Jason as he gently grasps your face, his calloused finger rubbing circles on your cheek.

"You flatter me, truly. But what's the obsession with him? He's not all that."

The strangely insecure tone that had lulled it's way into his words confused you to your core, you hadn't said anything wrong, why was he acting like you had?

"I never said he was! I don't see what the issue is- why are you being so defensive?"

Standing from the bed you toe closer to the large man who had the expression of a wounded kitten, if he had just told you the truth- the hidden role he undertook under the covers of nightfall this stupid argument could've been avoided. He didn't want to see the hurt that etched at your brows, to hear the disappointment within your voice.

Shaking his head, his lips clamped into a thin line as his finger curls around your own.

"I'm not, I promise you. Just.. why can't you pick another hero, a cooler one, hm?"

He felt relief pass over him as you nod your head in acknowledgement, a soft chuckle leaving his lips as he practically watches the countless ideas run through your mind.

"So if not Nightwing.. what about Red Hood? He's almost as hot as Nightwing."

Jason internally thanked himself for mastering his poker face- God knows if he could ever live down the countless jokes you would make if you ever learned about the panic that crept over him within a second at your thoughtless words.

Circling around Jason to shut the wrinkled blinds of your windows you can't contain your cheeky giggle at the thought that you spat out without a second thought.

"You're right actually, I mean you definitely don't have the butt Nightwing has."

With your back turned to Jason, you remained pleasantly unaware of the sassy eyeroll he gave you. If only he knew just how much you saw of him, from the countless scars that littered his body to the well designed costume of Red Hood you had found tucked in the bottom of the dresser you shared with Jason.

Little did he know.

• Unlock it •

Jason Todd x Male Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - Behind every closed off man is someone ready to uncover it all Word count - 1.7k ᯓ‎𝄞 ˎˊ˗ Off the record - IVE

Everyone in Gotham knew who Red Hood was, whether they had seen their bruised reflection on the surface of his polished mask up close or from hearing the countless whispers that spread like wildfire of someone's harrowing encounter with the gruff, reckless man who could go off like a gunshot at any given moment, everyone had an idea of the man that stalked the night.

And of course that included you, the man who had somehow managed to worm your way into his heart.

Those who prowled the streets of Gotham to pick a fight were only allowed to see what Jason allowed them to see, they had no recollection of the man he truly was underneath the mask- only you had delved within his glaring eyes and pulled him out of the murky sea of misery. What you saw in him- Jason had no idea of.

You were everything he was not, everything he wasn't allowed to be. A rare calmness within this mad world, a representative of everything good that had always been resting just slightly out of reach for Jason to grab hold of, to make it his own.

Jason was a guarded man driven by his overwhelming emotions, he always had been even as the young sidekick of Batman's- he had made a name for himself without the help of Batman, a name that would strike fear into those who opposed him. A name that would bleach his past identity of the quickly replaced Robin, the 'boy wonder'.

-

The rising steam from the heated pan of cooking onions wafted into your face as though you were relaxing at an esteemed sauna rather rather than your shared apartment between both you and Jason.

Pale cream walls that remained the same as the day you had both moved in together, the creaking brown floor panels that squealed and cried under any pressure set upon it. Yet you had managed to make it your own, from the numerous photo frames that lined the thin hallways, showcasing the gentle photos taken of you and Jason on the romantic dates he passionately had set up, to the steady bookshelves that lined the cracking walls of the cramped apartment Jason had spent hours setting up in the quiets of your company.

Gotham was no place for the abiding citizens of society, for those who thought with their hearts rather than their brains, yet when the warm overhead lights of your run down apartment that's rent was higher than the floor it resided on shielded your figure like a golden shield, it was like nothing could reach you, safe from the horrifying threats that loomed beneath you.

Really it had been a surprise to both you and Jason over the likeness you both managed to share, to the outside world it seemed almost impossible for such different souls to find a sense of harmony within one another, yet fate had brought you together.

There were days you would ponder over the destined meeting that occurred on a dark October night, recalling the falling rain that blurred your vision, darkening the worn down uniform you donned every morning. You had missed the last train and had been forced to walk through the flooded streets with your head held low and your weathered briefcase desperately thrown over your head, blocking your view of the upcoming group that swarmed your path.

It wasn't like they could grab any valuables off your figure- you weren't that dumb to carry any 'prized possessions' on you, not that you had any to begin with. You wanted to slap yourself silly as you recalled how you skittishly backed yourself against the harsh stone of the towering buildings of Gotham. How your eyes failed the meet the looming eyes of the lackey's that consumed your attention entirely. You couldn't imagine what would've happened had Red Hood not swooped down to your aid, you were glad you didn't stay long to find out what could've happened.

After that it seemed time after time both you and Red Hood were fated to encounter one another, and the rest was history. You were the calm to his storm, the man he climbed home to- no matter how bruised, beaten and broken he may be, your calm hands would nurse him back to health no matter what.

Your isolated company soon came to an end as you hear the rhythmic click of the rocky lock welcome the guest, the sounds of tussled boots hit the ground made a smile grace your face as you wait for the announced arrival of Jason Todd, to be enticed into his warm embrace.

Leaving the bubbling pan to itself for a few moments you make your way through the busily decorated apartment, skipping over the rushed steps of your own feet you stumble to the sound of the unmistakable voice of the man you loved with all you had, unable to hide your gleaming smile as your hands tremble with uncontrolled excitement.

He was home earlier than expected, not that you would complain of course- having spent your day off lazing around the place you called your own, vaguely resembling a desperate wife waiting for her husband to return from war -you were thrilled to know he was safe, to know his heart continued to beat its constant steady rhythm.

Only this time you could make out another voice cut through the deep voice that was unmistakably his, a smaller voice of youth, a voice of disgust.

Turning the curved corner to glance at the front door you take in the sight of Jason Todd, his face twisted in a scowl as he holds a young boy's hood who seems furious at such as he swipes like an enraged kitten, trying to free himself from the weak grip.

".. Jason? Who- You didn't tell me you were bringing someone with you."

He could here the disbelief in your voice as you take it in, watching your eyes swerve from his scarred face of maturity to the displeased face of Damian who thankfully remained quiet for the moment, a stark contrast to the boy who had just been barking orders a few minutes ago.

"Yeah, I wasn't planning to."

Shooting his youngest brother a childish glare he drops his grip, a chuckle leaving his lips as he hears the soft thud of Damian hitting the ground before he quickly picks himself up, hurriedly dusting himself off as though your apartment floor had personally offended him.

"Your place is a dump, just wait till father hears about this."

The contained furry on the boy's round face of baby fat made you smile, the corner of your lips twisting upwards in confusion, amusement and offense, just who exactly was this opinionated child standing in the doorframe of your apartment, tilting himself backwards to free himself from your 'repulsive' apartment.

Before your opened mouth could echo your internal questions Jason cut you off, his eyes shooting you an apologetic stare.

"My brother- Damian. I didn't want to bring him- really, I didn't. My bike's tire got slashed by someone."

The boy known as Damian let out a frustrated huff as he marches inwards, standing toe to toe with his larger brother as he glares in revulsion.

"I told you I could make my way to the manor on foot, I never asked to be dropped off in your dirty apartment, Todd."

Spitting out the words he glances in your direction, his eyebrows furrowing in suspicion at the sight of you standing in your own home, you took this as your opportunity to cut through the unbridled tension that had just crashed into your apartment.

"Ah, you're that Damian? I'm Jason's.."

You're eyes swerved to cage the reaction of Jason, unsure whether to continue, that was until Damian finished your hesitant sentence yourself.

"I know who you are. I worked it out myself once I saw the sappy photo Todd keeps of you within his wallet."

Heat flushed your face as you nod your head to his unimpressed words, Jason however was not as calm as you managed to remain in the fire of his brother's tone.

"You snooped through my wallet?!"

"You're items are of no importance of my attention to search through them, you left it open."

Before the petty arguing could continue your humoured laugh prevents Jason from throwing a hissy fit, the sight of your grown boyfriend try to stand up for himself against his younger brother was something you never expected to see, especially deep into the night.

Damian's sharp eyes slightly softened- only by a little at the warm sound of amusement as he takes you in, his calculating watch scanning you over almost robotically before Jason pushes past him as he encircles you, wrapping his arms around your waist as Damian makes a face of utter disgust in the corner of your eye, he really was a character.

Your voice dropped to a whisper, the chaotic nature stilled as the world seems to stop through the familiar embrace of Jason's.

"I'm in the middle of dinner, is he staying for it?"

Jason's warm breath breathed with calmness as he lovingly gazes at you, the presence of his annoying younger brother pushed to the back of his mind as he utters a soft 'no'. Before he could take back his simple reply, your face had fell in disbelief, your face snapping away from his, your comfort leaving him as you step away, crossing your arms as you do so.

"Are you serious Jason Peter Todd."

Great, not only did he have to face the smug look of Damian's as he happily watches Jason get lectured as though he were a five year old caught chewing on a crayon, he now had to face the wrath of the man he had just wanted to curl up on the sofa with and let the world past them, just the two of you, but no, of course the world had other plans for him. Of course Damian just had to have crashed himself in the middle of his plans.

• Strangers in the night •

Bruce Wayne x Male Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - A fleeting fate brings a man of the shadows into the light of your life. Word count - 2.3k

You can't recall how many times it seemed that Batman had swooped down to your aid, it was like he knew your every move, that he had memorised your entire route from work to home after the late night shift you took every Friday. Though you couldn't complain as you watched his tense muscles strain harshly against the well known suit of the batman.

You admired the seemingly ease he fought with, watching the well practiced moves and attacks he performed upon the gaggle of crooks that had attempted to grab anything seemingly valuable upon your figure, that was of course until the masked man known as Batman had landed himself into the commotion, practically shielding your person from the group surrounding you.

It didn't take long for the once standing gang resided upon the dirty ground of Gotham, not that you expected any less from the heroic vigilante you had grown to tolerate. It was the same as always, he would swoop in though he was your knight in shining armour, beat up any threat and then tell you to hurry home as though you were incompetent. Only this time he hesitated to emit his usual monologue, pausing to glance over you, his usual attitude seemed different, more calm, almost warm, like a man you could trust.

Your eyes measured to his cold blue ones, the once fiery war that rested inside his irises had seemed to be extinguished, though a faint flicker remained. A long silence stretched over you both, however it didn't seem as stuffy nor as awkward as one would expect, it was rather comforting. You hadn't always been a fan of a mysterious man dressed like a strange overgrown bat, in fact you almost disapproved the entire concept of someone's hobby being such a thing, that was of course until you moved to Gotham for a job you had desperately needed, and soon you recognised why such a city would need the strange cosplayer and his numerous sidekicks.

You glanced over the well designed cowl he adorned, from the fresh paint coating it that would've been scratched terribly if any other than the Batman wore it, to the sharp ears sitting at the crown, you wondered if they were for aesthetics or some aerodynamic mechanism you wouldn't know of nor even care of. Truly it seemed like whoever was behind such a legendary figure wouldn't be all that bad looking, from his chiseled square jaw, to his well aged wrinkles around his mouth that wore a masculine sense of stubble, you assumed he would've been at an age of his mid thirties to early forties, though you couldn't put a finger on any man you recognised to be the individual in front of you. No, of course you weren't one of those crazed fanatics desperate to unmask him like a villain on Scooby Doo, no, it was just simple curiosity, you weren't that obsessed.

The deep voice of his cut through your cascading thoughts you had become engrossed in.

"Get home safe. Gotham is no place for wandering at night."

The imperative had once agitated your very core, his almost reprimanding tone making you feel like a misbehaving child rather than the grown man you were, now it was something you expected every fateful meeting between the two of you, it felt almost intimate, a secret between you both, a reminder of care. You felt a small smile twitch at your lips as you slowly nod, your eyes never leaving his own that remained focused on yours.

Though the soft moment was soon to come to an end, he was Batman after all, he had places to be and people to see. You watched his smooth departure as he grappled from building to building, he truly was a spectacle to see.

You didn't loiter around for much longer, doing as you were told, and originally had planned to do, you made your way back home, back to your rented apartment you lovingly called your own. Although Gotham was one place many would refuse to step foot in, it had become somewhere you had grown fond of, the towns and people that always seemed to be talking - there truly never was a moment of silence, the strange smell that wove it's way through the streets, buildings, everywhere that everyone had just came to accept was going to stick around, and of course the famous vigilantes that just seemed to be growing in numbers, where did Batman even get so many Robins from? No matter what others could and did say about the wrecked city of Gotham, it was a place you now called home, a place like no other.

It didn't take you long to reach the many winding stairs that led to your small apartment, trudging up the cracked concrete that remained a sore site no matter how you tried to romanticise it, up to the simple wooden door that was far too old to have any of that advanced technology mechanism everyone has now a-days but rather just a simple lock and key.

You had tried your best to decorate the crumbling room, a few rugs skewed across the floor, simple grey wallpaper plastered across the walls and any furniture you managed to acquire with a good bargain, it wasn't a lot but it was home.

Throwing your beige coat that all the detectives in old movies seemed to have worn onto your coat hanger as you trample into the kitchen for a quick snack, or really anything that seemed edible, shopping wasn't something you really focused much on and now you almost resented such fact as you skim over the empty cupboards, deciding on a lone granola bar you didn't want to know how long it was sitting there for. Unwrapping the plastic wrap that separated you from devouring it right there and then you glanced out the small window over your window, watching the running shadows of both Batman and his new Robin, who decided the best meet-up place was the neighbouring apartment complex. The two figures remained still, waiting for someone. You had originally planned to quickly head to bed, but you could sacrifice a few minutes of beauty sleep, just out of curiosity of course, no other reason.

It had only been a few minutes until another figure made a flamboyant entrance by backflip, one you recognised as Nightwing. The discreet conversation between the trio was one you wished to have been in, what could they have possibly deemed so urgent or important to meet in such a random place, the half eaten granola bar lay forgotten at the counter as you keep your eyes fixated upon the three figures, a small chuckle leaving your lips at the contrast of the gothic, edgy colours that wore woven into the two men's costumes compared to the bright colours of Robin. But it seemed like the quiet chuckle that was more of a humoured huff had caught Batman's attention as he snapped his head in your direction, staring straight at you. It should've been impossible- no, it was impossible for him to have heard you, yet he had. A sense of fear consumed you at the acknowledgment of him from far away, though as you strain your eyes to see him clearer, a small smirk sits on his face, you had followed what he said, you had gotten home safe and with no detours at that.

The focused stare of Batmans didn't go unnoticed by the two partners as they too glanced through your small window, watching as you grasp at the thick curtains, pulling them to a close at the strange confrontation of sight.

You hurriedly made your way to bed, carelessly tossing of your boring work clothes as you practically jump into the warm confines of slumber.

-

Both Robin and Nightwing remained confused at the stranger that had caught Batman's attention, both jumping on the attempt to interrogate him almost immediately. It was Tim who spoke first, it was in his nature to be inquisitive, he reminded both Bruce and Dick of their younger years.

"Who was that?"

A simple question really, and one neither sons expected Bruce to answer, such expectations proved right at his cryptic tone, he never let anyone know the truth of much, too scared to let those around him see him for what he truly was, a man still trapped as the tragic orphan of the Wayne legacy.

"Nobody."

It took everything in both Dick and Tim to not roll their eyes at the blatant lie of their father, who did he really think he was fooling?

Yet they couldn't stay on the rooftop for sitting ducks for long, they were vigilantes after all, they had an honour to uphold and carry out, if they didn't, who would?

-

You didn't know how long you slept for, you hadn't even realised you had been that tired, yet the sun had already rose and those unfortunate enough to work on a Saturday had already set out to work, the busy streets of Gotham chirped in your ears as you forced yourself up, stumbling towards the cold shower you were too afraid to raise the temperature of, the last time you had attempted to the water bill had almost put you in debt.

You had almost forgotten the strange night that had happened, yet you couldn't shake off the aware stare Batman had trained upon you, able to single put a simple chuckle from far away, no one should have been able to do such a thing.

After the brisk shower that had successfully woken you almost immediately after you stepped foot into the ice cold water you attempted to do some grocery shopping, having listened to an upbeat radio as you got ready you felt almost exhilarated to get your life in order, stepping into your worn shoes you peacefully made your way to the one of few grocery shops, it didn't seem like many inhabitants of Gotham enjoyed doing the draining task of groceries.

Grabbing a simple basket you made your way through the many aisles of food, skimming the prices for the lowest number you could spot, slowly the enthusiasm you once possessed had dwindled at the mind numbing task, growing agitated at the confused actions of those who acted as though they had never once stepped foot into a shop. As you became lost in your internal rambles, you became lost in the bustling figures of many, unaware of who and what you had started bumping into, that was of course until you had harshly shouldered a man much larger than your stature. You weren't someone with no manners as you mumbled out an almost inaudible apology as you continued your slow pace, that was until a soft chuckle had caught your attention, spinning your head around as your eyes almost grew double in size at who you had indignantly shouldered, I mean why would you expect Bruce Wayne of all people to shop at Gotham Groceries? You felt your mouth became dry as you stutter out numerous apologies, watching as his sharp eyes grew a slight curve as he brushed you off, you had thought it was due to the fact a young boy you recognised as Tim Drake stood beside his leg, he couldn't make a scene in front of his young son, and of course that was true, yet what you didn't know was that he recognised you from the man he had grown fond of saving as the identity of Batman, you truly never learnt how to stay away from trouble, just like him.

An awkward silence stretched between you two before you quickly hurried away, too ashamed to remain under the Bruce Wayne's stare, you made a beeline for the self checkouts as you set a pace of packing groceries into the simple bag never seen before, unaware of the calm steps of Bruce Wayne as he followed you, setting his warm palm on your shoulder, his expensive cologne clouding around you. Your eyes remained trained on the bag of cheap groceries, remaining as still as possible- you had seen it work in jurassic park, surely it would work for you. Only it turned out Bruce Wayne was unfortunately not a CGI T-Rex, but rather just a well built man.

"Here, let me pay for that."

You watched as his outstretched arm quickly swiped his card against the reader before you could even refuse. You tried to not let your words fail you this time as you spun around, kindly smiling at his handsome face.

"You really didn't need to do that, especially after I Y'know.."

A small grin stretched across his face as his young son's soft grip on his hand grew stronger at his boredom.

"After you rudely bumped into me? Well, just see it as my act of forgiveness."

You felt your cheeks bloom with an embarrassing colour as you grew hot at his straightforwardness, you had just wanted to do your groceries in peace, not start beef with Bruce Wayne himself.

Your eyes remained focus on the white floor as you mumble a sheepish 'Thank you', offering a small smile to Tim as he focused his large blue eyes upon you, yet it wasn't returned. Awkward. Grasping your light bag you utter a goodbye as you run for the exit, unaware of both father and son recognising you from last night, the wide eyes that had held such fascination for the mysterious heroes now replaced by a tired, sheepish glance, if you could even call it that with the amount of times your eyes darted to who knows where.

Both watched your retreating figure in amusement before eventually continuing on with the mundane task of grocery shopping as Alfred had been to busy to do so, instead Bruce had happily taken Tim along with him, his boys needed to learn the routine of a normal family.

•You know how to ball, I know Aristotle •

Dick Grayson x Male Reader ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Synopsis - Two men fight over the love within your heart, crashing into your life in ways you never expected. Word Count - 2.5k

The park was lively with hustle and bustle, from those setting off on a peaceful Sunday walk, to tired parents lounging across benches facing the busy playground centered within the park.

You sat alongside the party of parents on the numerous benches, busying yourself with catching up on planning events for the simple book shop you had managed to get employed at a while back.

-

It wasn't common for many people to pass by the cramped shop, let alone enter it.

Or rather enter it by crashing through the window, which two men seemed to have seen as the perfect landing for their fighting bodies.

The man dressed in a flamboyantly latex costume had stood up as though he hadn't just crashed through the thick layering of glass like a new born bird attempting to fly, performing tricks you had never seen done before, and tricks that probably shouldn't have been done in such a tight area.

He had struck quick, calculated blows to the cowering male who once had tried to put up a weak fight. Eventually the book shop had returned to it's quiet atmosphere - save from the hurried panting coming from both men.

It was clear who had won, and it certainly didn't seem to be the powerless man who had acquired a broken nose, and an even worse temper.

It appeared that the victor hadn't noticed the unimpressed scowl that rested upon your face as you took in the serious damage that had been inflicted upon the building.

-

It had been a few weeks since then, and as much as it had cost the shop to fix up the windows and clear all destructions, it had brought a large attraction to the hidden shop squashed beside other neighbouring buildings, which lead to you being entrusted with organising a book club for younger kids.You hoped that the many adults littering amongst the park would show up.

Though there was one man you wished wouldn't show up, atleast not in the same disgruntled manner of landing through your window.

Many would have gladly taken your place of standing so close to the handsome vigilante, watching his expertise in battle at such close range, watching the sweat drip from his hairline down to his cocky smirk.

Yet the ugly aftermath for you had simply been the tedious task of clearing away all the miniscule shards of glass that had been skewed across the polished wooden floors from Nightwing's crash landing.

It was a warm summer's day, many families had came out to soak up the loving yellow rays, and although the large ammounts of people bobbing about the outdoors, you had managed to seat yourself at a lonely bench, distant from the shrieking playground, from the roaring roads, yet it wasn't far enough from the soaring football that came landing straight upon you from the back. Slamming your head downwards at an awkward angle as it comedically bounced off your head, your pained yell at the hurled football that had appeared from nowhere had unfortunately alerted those around you to stare at the brightening flush that overcame you.

Some chose to quickly turn away, hiding their small chuckles at the sight of a man hunched over a notebook getting his head slammed into the table by an assumingly small boy's football, while some uttered words of reassurance as they checked you over for any injuries.

But the public embarrassment of what had just occurred was not something you could face, politely confirming your health to the crowd of strangers that had gathered around you before quickly shuffling down the winding path to the exit of the park. Your book bag slung across one shoulder as you try to ignore the pounding of your head, thankful you hadn't been faced with a concussion.

The strength of the ball that had hit you had been too strong for any kid to do, especially not accidentally, though you didn't brave on finding out who had exceeded such force into a game of football, if anything you felt bad for the poor guy who was up against such animalistic strength.

But just your luck, while you made a stealthy exit of the mortifying scene you had been put through, a chirp voice came running towards you, and didn't seem to stop no matter how much you sped up.

"Hey! Hey, man wait up!"

It didn't seem like you could easily maneuver yourself away from the person entailing you. With a sigh you slowly spun around, careful not to dizzy yourself, you didn't wish to embarrass yourself again.

And soon the panting man came to a stop, his cheeks flushed with a boyish red as he stood in front of you, who you recognised to be none other than Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne's first son.

".."

An awkward silence stretched across the two of yous, until thankfully Dick broke the silence

"I saw my ball hitting you, I couldn't let you leave without apologising"

You could already feel the sweating flush of shame re - emerging as you had realised that it hadn't been just random strangers you would never see again who saw you get absolutely bodied by a football, no, amongst the crowd of onlookers, billionaire Bruce Wayne's son had to have been one of them. Who just had to sickeningly apologise after chasing after you.

Great.

Letting out a hurried nod you utter a small 'no worries' planning to head tail as soon as Dick turns from you. But no, he just had to continue digging up the onslaught of memories of what had just happened a few moments ago, your head still painfully throbbing as proof.

"I hadn't meant for it to hit you, dude! I was playing football with my younger brother and I just seemed to have lost control of the ball y'know,"

How Dick had expected his younger brother to be able to catch such a ball you couldn't understand. What kind of demon spawn of a child would be able to compete against such strength?

You had to get out of there, save yourself from the embarrassment of the earnest reply from the sickeningly sweet man, far away from his chiseled jaw, from his strong, muscular legs that were coated in a glistening tan that seemed to glow under the rays of the scorching sun, highlighting every tense muscle on display as he adorned a pair of black gym shorts.

"Are.. are you okay bro?"

Huh? Snapping yourself from the hypnotizing entrance his admirable physique had casted upon you, you gave him a quick smile, scratching your neck as you glance away from his face, realising he had caught your open mouthed stare that had been fixated upon his golden legs.

"Yeah, I'm fine, it didn't even hit me that hard, just unexpected"

There, that would do it, Dick would give a small chuckle as he agrees before running off to wherever he came from, freeing you from the cages of embarrassment- but no, such an ideal world did not exist, atleast not for you.

"You sure man? Your head almost crashed through the table! I thought for sure I had just taken you out.."

... Great. His concerned tone held no regard of judgement, yet the sense of humiliation ate you whole, refusing to allow you to even utter a futile attempt of saving yourself.

You hadn't realised he recognised you from the shabby book shop he had touched down in rather skilfully, (or so Dick would've liked to believe) I mean why would you with the flimsy mask he adorned himself with?

As you desperately pleaded internally for any higher being in the dazzling blue sky to strike you down, no sharp electrifying bolts were sent to your begs, but rather a small boy appearing from behind Dick like a trained assassin with the stealth he possessed. You recognised the tanned brown skin of Damian Wayne, the youngest son of the Wayne family. A pleasant smile curling in your lips, expecting him to save you from the disastrous encounter with Dick. What you weren't expecting was the fiery glare the young boy, no older than the age of 12, had upon his face, who he directed his irritation to ,you didn't know.

Before Damian could open his mouth, Dick quickly jumped ahead of him in an almost panicked matter,

"I was wondering if there was anything I could do to show my apologies?"

Maybe this had been the response of a generous God up above, finally hearing the pleas you had chanted like a mantra within your head. A pleased grin quickly took hold of your expression as you glance at his hopeful stare.

"Yes actually, there is something you could do for me."

You watched as Dick's face turns optimistic, nodding for you to continue with your want, expecting maybe a sum of money, a complex favour, or even a date over lunch, what he wasn't expecting however were the next words that flew out of your mouth,

"You see, I work at this bookshop, I'm not sure if you're aware of it I mean not many are, but I was tasked to organise a children's book club for an afternoon and I was wondering if you'd sign yourself up, alongside your brother of course, It would really help me out"

This time, it was Dick who had been stunned to silence, staring vacantly at you as he processed the request you had uttered. Before Dick could formulate any sort of sentence together, he sensed Damian's frustrations at being referred to with such a title, and quickly yelled out an answer, shocking both Damian and himself.

"We would love to go! I'll give you my number so you can keep me updated."

The forwardness of Dick quickly whipping out his phone took you by surprise. You hadn't seen the tight grip Dick held onto Damian with as he wordlessly begged Damian to follow along with this, the favours Dick were going to owe him for such sacrifice were bound to be never ending.

Handing over Dick's phone, your fingers grazing against one another, you murmured a quick 'thanks' offering a simple smile to the young Damian before navigating your way home, glancing back at the two brothers, the throbbing pain within your head had seemed to have been eased.

-

The two brothers stood still for a moment, before Damian disrupted the silence.

"What was that about Grayson, I am no child."

It took a few seconds for Dick to rip his eyes away from the fleeting figure of your silhouette, his lips curved into a simple smile.

"It wasn't up to me.. you heard him."

The rosey blush didn't go unnoticed by Damian, rolling his eyes as he stands poised, unbelieving of his brother's excuse.

-

You eventually make your way up the never ending staircase to your apartment, pushing the heavy door open you enter your simple living room, hanging your book bag on the front door as you slip your shoes off, sighing as you glance at the growing bump upon your head from the aftermath of Dick's collision.

How you had managed to exit the park with the phone number of Dick Grayson astounded you, though you weren't complaining.

Throwing yourself upon the bed, you cover your eyes with your heavy arm, needing to rest your head from the exhausting day forced upon you. You couldn't stop thinking of Dick and his puppy like smirk as he glanced down at you, you hadn't realised at the time how close the two of you had stood, recalling every freckle, pore and wrinkle that aesthetically decorated his face.

You wished you hadn't spent as much time trying to crawl into a hole of embarrassment, instead trying to preen yourself for Dick's potential admiration. You must've looked pathetic to him, a sizeable bump laying upon your head as your nerves prevented you from responding to his small talk, your eyes fixated upon the ground.

Rolling over with a groan as the sense of embarrassment once again surrounded you.

The familiar buzz of a notification stirred you from the weary feeling wrapped around you, your head jutting upwards at the hope of it being Dick.

"Me and my brother would be happy to come to your reading event, you'll be there won't you?"

An airy giggle left your mouth as you read his message, the tone of desperation reflecting in his words. You took a while to reply to his message, not wanting to seem too desperate.

"Well it is my event after all. Haha."

You cringed internally at your dry response, you really hadn't made a good impression, though that didn't deter Dick's chase.

"Great, excited to see you ;)"

"I realised I never got your name?"

Right, you had been too distracted by the pounding pain echoing throughout your head to even as much try to communicate like a regular person. This was your path to redemption.

"Oh really? It's (Y/N), you're Dick right?"

You knew it was Dick, you recognised him almost immediately from the countless magazines you possessed within your apartment with Dick displayed upon the front cover, to the many fan accounts of his you guiltily followed, you weren't a stalker, no, just an admirer like everyone else.

"Yeah, Dick Grayson. My brother's really looking forward to the book club, his friend wants to know if he can come along?"

A pleased smile grazed your face as you hurriedly typed back your appreciation, now you just had to actually plan the promised book club. You couldn't let Di- Damian down.

-

The walk to work had been something you had wished to avoid, having woken up early to open up the shop and to organise your area for the planned afternoon book club. A hint of anxiety embedding itself within you as you prepare yourself for the inevitable encounter with Dick.

Slowly opening the newly installed shutters, you pushed yourself into the warm shop, flicking on the decorated lights as you take in the many rows of crooked bookshelves, the pinned children's drawings upon many bullet boards, and the hanging paper garlands you had taken pride in crafting.

Flipping the closed sign to open you began your day of work, waiting for your co-workers to arrive for their shifts.

Dragging colourful bean bags to form a circle, you could feel the adrenaline pump through your veins at the thought of seeing Dick again, seeing his golden freckled skin crinkle with a smile, his wolfish teeth bared on show.

Every small, unnoticeable noise from the outside of the thick glass kept you on high alert, hoping to see the tall man bounding indoors.

You attention was fixated upon the glass, praying that this time, no masked vigilante would come crashing down in front of Dick, you refused to let Nightwing embarrass you in front of him.

Hopefully some criminal on the other side of town had attracted Nightwing's attention, far far away from your humble book club.

Your nerves grew higher as the starting time of the book club grew closer, yet still no sign of Dick nor of Damian. You tried not to let the disappointment spoil your hopes but as the book club soon began and three empty bean bags stared almost condescendingly at you, it was hard not to.

Eventually the other participants had gathered into their seats and still the Wayne's hadn't appeared, you figured they really would be no shows. However the show must go on, with or without them.