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Crowds, crowds and more crowds. This was the opposite of what Tim wanted.
During his presentation he felt awful, just awful! Itchy, overheated, sore and worst of all lonely, so terribly lonely. Left to wander around his home territory, painfully aware -and not for the first time- how devoid of scents this place was. He'd wanted somewhere he could feel safe, but nothing seemed to help. He'd tried piling some of his blankets and his parents clothes into his closet, but it was no use. A few spritz of his mother's perfume made it slightly better but it still didn't feel right. The constant barrage of STRANGERS didn't make it any better. When Mrs Mac finally did track him down he'd pretty sure he snapped at her, trying to chase her off his land! He still had to apologize for that, but he hadn't see her since his parents came back. She must have been the one to call them, because just after his first runt had winded down they showed up.
His dad had picked him up and hugged him close, telling him he was so proud of him. That had been nice. Mom had been more reserved, she gave him a pat on the head and warned him not to touch her things again. Tim had pushed down the strange impulsive outrage at his parents, sure they missed the important messy part, but they did show up. That counted for something-Everything! His dad had been particularly attentive since they came home, bringing him out to fancy dinners and bragging to everyone about 'his little overachiever'. Even bringing him for a suit fitting for some party they were going to throw to celebrate him. Years ago his dad had called it 'gaining his long pants' before his mom had corrected them, 'a coming out debut'.
Neither had warned them it would be so loud! or smelly!
A proper son should be excited, it was a once in a lifetime event after all. Yet, he still felt hollowed out and miserable. He'd rather just stay home for the next month with his parents, familiarizing himself with their scents again and getting his fledgling scent to rub off on them too. His entire body felt like an exposed nerve, even as his mother smoothed his suit and fixed his hair, tutting about how he got his father's thin hair. An apologetic rumble fought it's way up his throat before she gripped his shoulders tightly, "Enough of that, we are civilized people in this household! You mustn't make any ghastly noises at the party, or else everyone will think we are raising a feral dog. I know these silly feelings are new to you, but do try to keep it under control."
"Yes mom, it won't happen again." Tim swore, wishing that jittery unsettled feeling in his chest would just go away already so he could focus.
Despite this event not being the first, second, fifth party he'd attended with his parent's it was a lot different; This time he was expected to do more than stand there looking well mannered and smile. People were actually asking questions, and he was supposed to answer in a way that didn't sound childish or make his family look bad. Most were easy enough, some of his parents friends asking about school and teasing him about omegas. His mom didn't like that much but she wasn't able to say much about it.
He tried to cheer her up by holding her hand, but she only gave him a light squeeze before letting go with a look that meant 'grow up'.
The worst parts of the night was hearing his parents telling the same dumb jokes to every guest, as well as watching his dad getting his interests wrong. Maybe football and hunting were things he should learn to like? They might be the things his family needed him to be into in order to better their standing. That and the constant introductions to a seemingly endless list of omegas. Each of them smelt really weird, super strong and dizzying. It was disorientating, he felt too much, nausea was clawing it's way up his throat. The sweat was building up on his temples, back, palms and under his hair. The freshly minted alpha wanted air, but he wasn't allowed step out of his own party. His head was pounding, and every breath only made it worse.
His parents lead him from one rich family to another with little to no breaks. His dad had handed him some really yucky red wine, he missed the children's bubbly champagne. But he was a man now, that meant he had to drink the dry wine instead of the tasty kids stuff. Time seemed immaterial, his wine had gotten too warm to be enjoyable but he managed to get through most of his glass before his ears pricked, Batman was here! At his party!?
"The gall of that man!" His mother's bridge partner scowled, "I swear, the Wayne Heir has no shame! Trying to make Timothy's coming out about himself and that street boy he's brought in."
Robin was here too?! No way! Best. Party. Ever. Tim tried to look around for them, but with how thick the crowd was he couldn't see past them. Hopefully he'd get to say hi at some point! It felt like he'd said hi to everyone else here.
"Honestly, Brucie can dress them up whichever way he wants. But it doesn't belong here, the vulgar mouth on it! I can't believe this is the one he adopted, at least the omega had charming qualities. Not to mention that he had the opportunity to be rid of that one, but spend goodness knows how much in legal fees to get it back!"
Tim's father laughed, "Well, you have heard the talk. What red blooded alpha willingly takes in another man's bastard? An omega that lovely and does nothing with them? I doubt he's making a cuckold of himself, but they do look very similar to him, now don't they? I would put money on the idea that they're his."
"I have heard that this one's mother was a-" His father's friend cast a glance at him, "Woman of the street. Perhaps that old scoundrel paid her a visit some time ago."
Janet suddenly jerked him away to meet with yet another girl, although he was less resistant this time, he didn't like hearing people speaking about robin that way. Sure, he hadn't found much about who Jason was before he was Robin, he had no online presence and very little in the way of digital records before Bruce found him but he wasn't totally shealthered from the reality of Crime Alley.
Ugh, talking with girls was so boring! Even more so when your parents are watching, and the girl is like four years older than yourself! He doubted she was into skateboarding or video games back in Quebec. Not that he was even allowed to talk about anything he was actually interested in! Thankfully the conversation was eventually over, his mom pat his shoulder gently, "So, anyone caught your eye yet, Dear?"
Tim forced his 'thanks mom' smile, "No-not really. There's a lot of people." He ducked his head apologetically, she didn't like his answer, "Maybe Jacqueline? She seemed nice." And her scent wasn't nauseatingly saccharine or overwhelming.
"Hm, yes. Her family are good up and comers. Remember Timothy, alpha's are allowed to marry down, omegas marry up, but you should still seek to further our name, Don't marry too far down. Unless you find someone truly ambitious to pull you both up by your bootstraps."
The Drake Heir nodded attentively, wishing he could be somewhere with at least 70% less odor.
"And never engage in such crude gossip like your father. Never truly comment on anything, non-committal is the way to go, you'll burn less bridges. Only condemn those who no longer matter or who do something outstandingly uncouth."
"Yes mother."
They met another horde of perfumed lads and ladies, Jack probably thought he was being discreet with his contempt when a male omega was introduced to his son. Tim wondered if perhaps he was, but he'd just grown up watching his father's expression very keenly for any approval or disapproval. But the night was dragging in, he'd never felt so overwhelmed and bored at the same time. Were Robin and Batman still here? He wanted to say something to them before they left. Only a few months ago he had missed the opportunity to say something to Robin, he didn't want to miss out again.
Jason had looked so cool, appearing out of nowhere to clothesline that jerk Tyler who kept hassling him. Being the new kid sucked, but everyone was so big and mean to him in Gotham Academy, he almost missed boarding school. Still, Jason Wayne had rushed in to help him when he thought for sure Tyler was going to hurt him, he hadn't been in the cape but he might as well have been. Tim had been awestruck by the dramatic entrance and fierce protection, it was so totally cool! Then Robin had looked at him and whatever he'd seen had made him back up to leave quickly, it hurt. Tim had told himself the other boy had just wanted to avoid getting into trouble for fighting. Still.. He wished he'd had the chance to at least say thanks.
Almost as if his longing manifested it, Tim noticed his father slipping back to towards them, linking arms with his mom, "Janet dear, he's making a scene. Of course he is, why did we invite them again? He couldn't just hold it in for one night! Tonight was meant to be about Timmy-"
"Jack, control yourself." His mother responded, as quiet as it was frosty, "Without the Wayne's is it even a true coming out? That man is Gotham, now what has he done that's so bad?"
"He and that- The boy, have been insulting guests and raiding the appetizers. No one is going to touch the food if that one has been pawing over it," Jack muttered, "I swear, the lack of decorum-"
"Then it's probably best we speak to dear Brucie before he gets a few more glasses of sherry and loses control." His mom hummed, leading them over towards the Wayne's! Tim had died and gone to Bat-Heaven! This was too good to be true! He tried to catch his reflection to make sure he looked his best, but again the sea of people was too dense, besides, surely his parents wouldn't let him be seen by Bruce Wayne if he wasn't in top shape? "Brucie! Wonderful to see you here!" His mom called, Tim noticed that she seemed to rush in to make the man either surrender his hold on Jason or drop his plate over them both, "And your little guest. How sweet."
Tim tried to take a moment to steady himself, he was about to be formally introduced to Batman and Robin as a true alpha, suddenly he felt more nervous than he had all night! Batman's eyes snapped onto him with a smile, he had to bite down on the inside of his cheek to keep from doing something undignified like purring! "There you are, Timothy wasn't it?"
His throat almost closed up, calm, be calm, be cool, be professional and aloof, don't be a preening fanboy! Robin was always shy around excitable people. Besides, his parents were watching, and judging, "Yes Mr Wayne, it is a pleasure to finally meet you." He kept to the script, complete with handshake. There perfect heir, perfect son, totally not the one stalking you both through Gotham for a photo shoot. Bruce accepted and wowee his hands were BIG! He glanced at Robin to offer the same but noticed Jason wasn't paying attention to them, well that's no good! He didn't want to draw attention to the fact he was ignoring their greeting. That might get him in trouble. So he let his hand fall to the side. Disappointed.
The fledgling alpha tried not to wilt under the embarrassment of having his parents and heroes full attention, except for Robin who seemed to be surveying the guests. Where they here for a case!? That would be soooo cool! Maybe he could help? Well, not with his parents around he couldn't. It was so surreal to have them bragging about him to Batman, talking up his good grades and supposed athletic achievements- That he'd forged to try impress his dad when just about every team in school said he was too small to join.
For a while Mr Wayne tried to join in on the bragging before the loose smile he had got minutely tighter, he'd realized his parents weren't listening to him and were pitching their son instead. Tim tried not to get too upset about the Dark Knight's dismissal. He didn't like having people being served to him all night either... And Bruce Wayne probably had it non-stop. He wondered if he was being pitched as business or to Robin? The idea made him a bit flustered, Robin was so great and yeah he was kinda handsome, but the idea of Robin settling for someone like him?! That was almost unthinkable. He doubted his dad would approve either, for a man who married a beta he seemed to want him to be more 'traditional'.
Eventually Bruce's patience seemed to have bubbled over and he kept trying to change the subject to their refreshments, "It's not a very large selection you have on offer here, I must say." He mused, picking up some calamari skewers, "I understand Timothy here is a man now, but surely he's not so old to forgo a proper selection of treats."
"Now Brucie, you wound us! Timmy has very mature tastes for his age!"
"I'm sure, but come now, not even those delightful little sandwiches?"
"Those are usually for funerals, Mr Wayne." His mother didn't take slights well, even if she hadn't cooked any of these dishes. She still selected them, "Not at all fitting for a joyous event!"
"What is a debut if not the death of childhood?" He laughed, Tim winced, reminded of how young Batman had been when he'd become the de-facto head of his pack. His parents were less compassionate, but Tim noticed Jason rolling his eyes in amusement, fighting a smile. Grey eyes snapped onto him, alert that he'd been caught slipping. Tim tried to offer him a wry smile in return, Parents, right? So dramatic about such silly things! Robin straightened up and averted his eyes again. Wow, he was way more meek than expected. Word around school was that he was reserved, they sure weren't kidding!
"How morbid. Tim was never really one for sweets. He's always preferred savory salty dishes." Tim preened, his dad remembered that?! "Your little one though, he's got quite the appetite! Any other family would be eaten out of house and home! Although he'd probably used to that, Right sport?" Jack reached out to ruffle Jason's hair, making the boy flinch before he caught himself and stared at Bruce. Tim felt his jaw drop, but schooled his expression to neutrality. What an awful thing to say! Honestly, had his dad said that to anyone other than the Batman he would have caused a fight! This is so humiliating! Dad was ruining his first impression with the new Robin!
Mom was staring at dad with her 'we are going to discuss this later' look, and Tim was glad to see it directed at someone else for a change. Especially after such a nasty comment! And Dad just wouldn't. let. up. "Tell me then, is this one promised to that omega you had for a while? He'd want to hurry up and grow before he misses the window to have a fertile mate!" Jack laughed, and it felt like all the air had left the room. His mom tensed, grabbing onto his shoulder tightly although he refused to budge. Mr Wayne's jaw had actually dropped, face flushing with barely restrained outrage. The vein in his neck throbbing as the larger alpha tried to loosen his clenched teeth, letting out an alpha growl tainted laugh to deflect such a vulgar and out of line question. Tim chanced a look at Jason and his chest panged with sympathy. The poor guy was turning green at the idea. Tim may not have any siblings but he couldn't imagine trying to marry one! Especially with the age gap, already a few of the omega's he'd been introduced too seemed too old for him and that was only 3 years, not 6!
The entire night felt ruined by this! Thanks a lot dad!
"Ah Duty calls, you know how it is Bruce. Do try to leave some appetizers for the rest of our guests, Brucie dear." His mom called, finally putting an end to this misery. "I hope you're happy with yourself, dear. You made a fool out of us all!" She hissed under her breath as they made their retreat, "Honestly! This is why you need to regulate yourself better! And forget ever drinking at one of these events again!"
"Oh get off it, Jan. He was already making a mockery of us!"
"See Timothy? This is level of feral posturing is why you need to keep yourself contained. It makes men into fools."
Jack started to growl but a harsh look forced him to choke it down, "Yes yes, we're all meant to be feminized little lap dogs. That's the modern way. Intellectuals prefer the banal emptiness of betas. Of course, if the world ever devolves into war again it won't be them who anyone is looking towards-"
"Do keep your mouth shut, dear. You'll make the boy cruel."
Tim kept his head down, wishing this stupid party would just be over already. He didn't even get to enjoy the new title Mr Wayne had affirmed, Ancillary Alpha... It felt so regal. For all of a moment anyway. Now it felt like he didn't live up to it at all. Caught clueless on how to keep the peace.
---
Another few terrible rounds of high stakes speed dating and Tim managed to catch sight of Robin all alone, standing near the bathrooms. This was his chance! He could apologize for his dad, thank him for the help all those months ago. Maybe they could even become friends! "May I be excused, mother?" He asked, glancing towards the bathroom, Janet nodded.
"Yes, but be quick, we still have many more introductions to make."
Hurray, more smelly crowds. But hey, a chance at solo time with Jason Wayne! Worth it!
On his way over he tried to plan what to say, 'Hi there, do you remember me from school-' No, that was dumb! They literally just got introduced. "Hello-" Way too formal. "Hey, sorry about my dad-" God no, why start off on the worst possible foot?! "Lost?" Ugh, no. He couldn't say anything coded about robin either, that would only make him suspicious! Jason was drinking some of the champagne? Maybe um, ask how he liked it? Joke about missing it since he had to have gross adult wine now? No, he knew Robin's dad had a drinking problem. Or at least everyone said so. Um... What else, what else.
Oh crud, he was right next to him and he still hadn't thought of anything! Where was all the witty clever ice breakers his mom had given him? Tim's crisis was interrupted by the scent of blood. He noticed Robin was hurting himself, oh no! No! He couldn't allow that! "Hey! um.. Hi!" He corrected, "Wayne, uh Jason Wayne right?" He smiled, hoping that a show of remembering his name despite the preposterous amount of introductions he'd made tonight would win him some favor.
The other boy had jolted as if physically shocked and hid his bloody hand behind his back. He didn't look happy to see him, maybe he really had gotten lost and split up from Batman? "Yeah, hey. Timothy."
Tim preened, he'd remembered his name! Great start! "Hi." Oh, already said that! "Um... So, having fun?" Smooth, Drake.
Jason shot him a weird look, "Oodles." He replied dryly. Tim had no idea what it meant.
"Cool, that's ... good right? Cool." Oh snap! He forgot the most important line! Mom would be furious! "I appreciate your presence here tonight."
Robin looked like he'd bitten something sour. "Sure.... D'ja'want something or?"
"J-just wanted to talk properly." To thank you. To say how cool you looked fighting crime at night! To apologize for his dad being a jerk To become bestest best friends and eat lunch together at school. Maybe trade friendship bracelets."What- Uh, what's it like living with Bruce Wayne? And Dick Grayson? He was so cool, we met once, you know? He was so friendly and kind, must be a great big brother? Um.. I really like your sweater by the way. Red's my favorite color too. But my mom made me wear navy blue-"
"Shut up!" Jason snapped suddenly, "Shut up about Dick already! He's got a girlfriend, he's taken and she'd never let you anywhere near him!" He growled, crowding him with a deep hiss, And I'm no 'mega! Even if I were I'd rather die than lay down for the likes of you!" He warned, Tim backed up in instinctive fear. Flashing his neck in submission. To a pup! So what if he was older, Robin was still unpresented, he was meant to be a man now. Hopefully his dad didn't see. He'd be so disappointed in him. Who gets cowed by a puppy?!
"Wh-what? N-nno I didn't mean-" He stammered, wondering where he went wrong in that conversation. What happened?! He thought they were building a rapport?
Jason shot him a very cold steely side eye before shoving past him to go rejoin Bruce. Tim watched with regret as the other boy got wrapped in a protective arm. Slipping back into professional mode like it was easy.
He still felt too rattled to go back to his pack. Running into the bathroom to hyperventilate and splash some water on his face. Where did he go wrong? He didn't even get to say thank you for helping him out at school...
Eventually Tim rejoined his parents, but Batman and Robin were long gone and the symbol was blazing in the sky. His nose had gone numb hours ago as he was lead through somehow more omegas and family friends. This was the worst party ever. At least it was only once a lifetime... He wondered who Batman and Robin were fighting tonight. Guess he'd have to make due with watching it on the news later.
For the next three weeks his parents had stuck around, bringing him to all kinds of fun events and fancy dinners. Dad had even played ball with him a few times. Right before he started to wonder if this was just how life was gonna be now and as suddenly as they'd came back, his parents left. The manor was his and his alone again.
Back to bat watching, he figured. Just gotta make extra sure Robin didn't spot him.
"Gala's suck. Why d'we gotta keep pretendin'? Ain't y'rich enough to tell 'em to go to hell?" Jason bemoaned, to the Dark knight's amusement.
"Language, lad. And It's a ball, not a gala Jason. It'll be fun this time, I swear. You should join me." Bruce urged, while fastening the latches on his gauntlets for the nights patrol. Jason let out an exaggerated groan slumping into the case that held his robin suit when it wasn't in use, glaring over at the older man while waiting for the glue holding his domino to set.
"Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, egg fried rice. I ain't gonna go get leered at while you act like a drunken dolt for snobs approval-"
Bruce rolled his eyes, turning to face him with his hands on his hips, an action that a few months ago would have had him flinching back. Nowadays, other than the instinctive dry mouth, he was able to laugh at it like Dick. "You won't need to worry about that. It's the Drake heirs coming out party, all eyes will be on him. Besides, if you're with me, then I won't have to fully commit to the Brucie bit, you'd be doing me a favor."
"Coming out? Huh, didn't expect that lot to be so open minded."
"Not that kind of coming out, Jaylad." The alpha had that tight lipped expression he often had when he tried to suppress a smile, "It's tradition, when the eldest son presents as an alpha he's thrown a party to symbolize his entrance into high society. Omega's get a debutante ball, until the last few years male omega's were the exception to that rule."
"Oh yuck, hopefully I'm a beta."
"Sure, Jay, whatever you say."
"Hey, genetics are fickle, environmental factors can influence what you turn out as!"
"Environmental factors in this case usually refer to conditions within the womb-"
"Totally malleable! That test doesn't mean anything-"
"You don't need to worry, we can do something else for your presentation. We don't have to have a stuffy party. Maybe we can go to see the Grand prix?"
"Wha- For real?! No way!"
"If you decide after this party that you don't want one of your own, sure."
"That's a dirty deal, B!"
"I am a CEO in my spare time." Jason scoffed, going over his final gear checks before they set out, "Say, who is the patron saint of parties?" Bruce coaxed as they headed for the bat-mobile.
The young vigilante rolled his eyes at the obvious bait. He still took it, "There isn't one. Drunken parties aren't really something saint's are known for. Closest I could point ta is, um... Nicholas since y'said it's for some kid. Or Vitus for dancing, maybe Cajetan for gambling?"
Batman huffed. "So they have saints for arms dealing and gambling but not galas? Seems unfair."
"Hey, 'Easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into Heaven'." Jason quoted, glancing over to watch the older man's reaction. Batman was stoic as ever, letting out a non-committal hum, "You mean it? We can go see Formula race in person?" He asked hesitantly, it still felt dangerous to ask for anything that big or flashy. Heck, after a life time of living around Willis even just showing active interest in anything felt risky. Some days he almost wished Bruce would just snap at him to shut up already or cuff him upside the head for yapping too much. Getting those weird beguiled looks from a guy who wasn't even his real dad, a guy who he'd stolen from and assaulted with a tyre iron when they first met, it just felt surreal. Surely it was an act that would one day crack? What's so amusing about a loud mouthed brat sponging off of you? The novelty would wear off soon enough, but Bruce and Alfie were a slippery sort. He'd already started getting attached, like an idiot.
The white out lenses of Batman's cowl didn't give much away, so Bruce tended to smile more in it, "Of course, I was thinking about the Italian Gran Prix. I believe you already had something you wanted to see in Italy for your fifteenth birthday?"
"Shut up! Wow..." This had to be a dream he was going to wake up from at some point. Or a fantasy as he died to hypothermia in some back alley! It just didn't seem possible that this was his life now, he didn't even think he'd make it to fifteen two years ago. He scrunched up his nose in distaste, "S'that- Is that under the condition I go to this stupid 'coming out' party?" That would make more sense, tit for tat and all that. Batman glanced at him before starting up the car, gunning it down the ramp, through the waterfall and into the tunnel leading to Amusement Mile.
"I'll take the '66 Chevrolet Caprice if you come. But if you really don't want to join me, we'll still go to Italy, and you don't have to have a party if you don't want to. I'd never force you. If Alfred tries, I won't let him. You're opinion matters to me, Robin."
"You had me at 1966 Chevrolet Caprice, B-man!" He grinned, part of him wanted to say no just to see if that really would be the end of it. But he was starting to suspect that it might actually be the case for once in his life. It had been for every small thing he'd risked (chicken over beef, Green instead of red, taking the right street instead of the left, snow cones over frozen yogurt), and last gala when he'd just implied he was uncomfortable they'd left immediately with Bruce faking a stomach ache.
"Happy to hear it, lad."
---
It's official, Jason Wayne (née Todd) was a gullible chump.
Bruce swore up and down that this wasn't going to be a gala, and he'd been foolish enough to believe the difference between a gala and a ball was as dramatic as the Prince of Gotham made it out to be... But alas, he allowed himself to get swept up in the image his adoptive father was painting; A more relaxed setting, dancing with pretty girls his own age, no speeches to slog through, and best of all no networking! Sounded too good to be through.
And it was.
Although thanks to Crazy Quilt his head was thumping and his eyes still hypersensitive and burning under the bright lights of the garish ballroom. The only real downside to inheriting Robin was inheriting his grudges too. He wished Dick was around to ask him what the heck that walking Batak light test's problem was!? Not that Dick usually spent that much time with him. He acknowledged him as pack, but didn't seem to interested in him beyond that loose connection. He mostly spoke over him towards Bruce. Maybe that's normal for pack omega's? Mom always focused more on Willis when he was around, but he thought that was just because he was the biggest danger and provider they had. He didn't know any other omega's well enough to ask.
The dumb party wasn't that bad at first. There weren't as many paparazzi waiting as there were for Galas, most of them only asked the generic dumb questions; Who are you wearing? How much money did you spend on it? How are you finding Gotham Academy? What's your favorite subject? How is Brucie treating you? The usual tripe, he could smile through it by now. And it did seem less invasive for once, for a second Jason hazarded to hope Bruce was telling the truth and this night wouldn't be about them. It's funny, getting ignored used to really peeve him, who coulda guessed he'd end up missing it?
Then Vicki dropped that question, with a glint in her eye and a teasing lilt to her voice,"Any news on when you might be presenting, little one? Who knows, if you hit it off you might be meeting your future husband tonight." Whatever face he'd made at the question had gotten a lot of laughs before Bruce's hand fell on his shoulder.
"My, it's far too early for that sort of talk don't you think? Or too late perhaps, young omega's aren't determined by their martial status wouldn't you agree Miss Vale?" He said with a laughing tone, although Jason saw the backhanded insult in the seemingly innocuous comment. He'd seen enough of Vicki and heard enough from Alfred to know about their chaotic disaster of a relationship and catastrophic break up. Marriage or the lack thereof being the impetuous of that final fight and the solidification of Brucie Wayne's scandalous heart breaker playboy image. Without another word Bruce steered him up into the lobby, stopping momentarily to tussle his hair, "Are you okay?"
"Peachy."
"Don't worry, son. Worst part is over, now we get to raid the refreshments, do you remember the rules?"
"Don't eat nuthin' y'didn't pick for yerself. I know, I know. Is the cratering at least better this time?"
Bruce shot him a helpless grin, "Nouveao-rich, I'm afraid. Expect more Haute cuisine than hearty meal."
The preteen groaned, throwing his head back with it. "You're joking. Not snails again, anything else!" Why did it seem like the Wayne Christmas Party was the only event with proper food at it?!
"I'm sure it's not all snails, don't worry. They should have some deserts there."
"Yeah, barely a whiff of sugar or beef. Yum. Why d'you lot pay so much for so little!?"
"Hubris, pride, social pressure and having more money than time to spend it." The old money heir gave him a commiserating squeeze on the shoulder, "C'mon lad, game face on. Let's go meet the man of the hour and give our thanks. The sooner we do that the sooner we get to leave."
"Fiiiiiiiiiine." He dragged the syllable out as long as he could before following Bruce's lead. Turns out getting a chance to finally meet their neighbors was easier said than done. The Drakes were swamped. Soon enough Bruce was too. Seems he and Jason had different definitions of 'not being the center of attention'. So many gross old posh men had swarmed in like locusts. Jason almost preferred the one's that pretended he wasn't there, either looking right past him or just never acknowledging him to the fake fawners. By the third time some guy he didn't know had messed up his carefully coiffed hair, Bruce finally sensed his discomfort and rested his own hand atop the young boy's head to keep the others at bay. The only difference between this and a regular gala was how pheromones hung thick the air. It was stifling.
He really tried to keep his best face forward, smiling politely and nodding along with all this boring, boring, boring golf and stocks talk. Laughing whenever everyone else did, even if he rarely got the joke. All his efforts were wasted immediately when one of the girls his age Bruce had promised finally approached with her family. He didn't recognize her from school but she'd actually greeted him, offering her hand to him the way all those older ladies had to Bruce so he reacted in kind, kissing her knuckles despite how shy he felt doing such a lofty gesture. It was weird for a young omega to go without scent blockers at galas, but Susan Campbell's scent was right there at his nose when he did, "Susan, what a lovely name. And quite fitting, Lady Susan." No sooner had he said it than he instantly wished he hadn't. Bruce didn't let on, but he definitely noticed the unintentional slight, "Although you seem to have the manner of Frederica." Cripes, really?! That was his attempted save?
Susan's tender smile seemed to fall somewhat, "Oh, It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr Wayne. I'm afraid I don't understand the reference."
That should have made him feel better. Instead it felt like when the other Park Row kids used to call him names for reading, "Ah, yeah... It's an Austin book, novella really." He hesitated, was it rude to recommend a book like that? Comparing her to someone like Susan Vernon probably wouldn't go over well, but telling her not to read it seemed just as bad. Unfortunately the reference didn't go over the elder Campbell's heads, not if the look her father was giving him meant anything. "Um... D'like Austin?" He tried, ignoring how Susan's dad already put a hand on the young omega's shoulder not so subtly reeling her away from him.
"Oh how adorable," Susan's mother spoke up in a tone that implied the opposite, "He still hasn't shaken that accent yet, Brucie? Perhaps you could consider a tutor, or a specialist?"
Bruce shot a dazzlingly smile that didn't reach his eyes, "Now Kezzie, cultivating an accent is just departing from oneself-"
"Ah Brucie, surely you should already know enough specialists by now! Remember how you used to put on that unsightly British lilt? You and Cobblepot, although he certainly picked much lower standard of help to mimic." That got a few laughs, but most cut off when they noticed Bruce wasn't, "That last one had an accent to, didn't he? Not nearly as rough, that one was almost musical at times. The Wayne household must sound like an airport!"
Jason wished there was a rogue attack like right now. Never thought he'd want Crazy Quilt to come back and flash bang him again for another beating. Or Two Face to come in and start gunning the snobs down. "Tell me, is this one another omega?" Jason knew the implication of that, he felt about two foot tall under the scrutiny. Risking a glance at Susan, her warm persona had frosted over. He kept his eyes fixed on the ground.
"Keziah. There is nothing to correct in the sound of words, only their content."
"You wouldn't want the boy to go around sounding uneducated, would you?"
"It seems to me he's already better read than most his age." Bruce hummed, staring down the couple who held eye contact long enough to be just shy of a challenge before they looked away.
"Yes. How very impressive." The alpha Campbell finally spoke up, "Do excuse my pack, I believe we have yet to greet the man of the hour." He nodded to them both, stirring his daughter away towards where the Drakes were seated.
"Ciao," Bruce gave a jaunty little wave as if there had been no tension at all. Most of the people still mulling around them started to disperse now that the drama was over, but he could hear fragments of their mutterings. Feral, ill-mannered, vulgar, prison... He was stupid to have ever let Bruce talk him into this! Now he went and made a scene! Willis would have scruffed him for that! Maybe worse. Bruce just lead him over to the snack table, yapping away about something or other, if was really hard to stay focused. Until a bright green macaron was held in front of his face, catching his full attention, "See? Not all bad, and 100% snail free."
His pack alpha held out his plate, offering up the selection of cream based cakes and fruit tarts, "These are called profiteroles, they're my favorites. Those are cream puffs, this is amuse-bouche, typically this is meant to be eaten first. Very hit or miss, but it's small so you only have to endure a mouthful if it's not to your liking. This is the tarte tatin, Dick couldn't get enough of them, although he seemed to enjoy flipping it over more than anything. Those are choux, personally I find them far too much for too little reward, chocolate eclairs being the exception. That's mousse, it's never as good as Alfred's." He listed, pointing out each option as he described them, "I expect a full review from you by the end of the night." he teased, no sign of any frustration about what just happened.
"I'm sorry, Bruce. I didn't-! I didn't mean it like that." He whisper-yelled, refusing to make eye contact, wringing his fingers nervously, "I d'unno- Don't know what I was thinking-"
"Relax lad, I know you didn't mean anything negative by it. You're not far off to be honest," The alpha whispered conspiratorially, "The Campbell's are social climbers, lady Susan is an apt comparison. Here," He presented the little macaron again. This time Jason took it, refusing food just wasn't in his nature, nibbling at it to avoid fueling the mutterers calling him 'uncivilized' and mocking him for eating like a pig. Bruce took some of the chocolate covered balls-profiteroles- for himself while he ate. Eating at these things was always risky. Just having food in his hand made him feel safe, but this wasn't a truly safe environment. He shouldn't let his guard down.
"I didn't mean it like that.." He reiterated, snagging some of the tart-thingy off Bruce's plate. It was weird to have an alpha that let him do that. Willis used to, when he was real young he had a few memories of that old bastard seating him on his lap and letting him get first choice at every meal. Jason still wondered what he'd done to make his father stop doing that, "These people just wanna take everything I say the wrong way."
Bruce leaned over so the pup was pressed against his side, as close to a proper hug as Jason and decorum allowed, "I know, lad, I know... Even I struggle to find things to say to them. It gets easier with time, if you take up golf and hunting then you'll have a cheat code. Everyone just tells the same stories verbatim." He gave his adopted son's shoulder a gentle squeeze as he chowed down on another pastry, Alfred was right to make them a large lunch before this, "I must ask, was it the scent that tripped you up?"
Jason nearly choked on his snack, "W-wha?!"
"None of the appropriately aged omegas will be wearing blockers, some might even be wearing enhancements. I should have warned you." He cast a glance out towards the ballroom, the Drakes were still completely eclipsed by the crowds, "Coming out parties do also declare that the alpha or omega in question is ready for mating offers."
Jason scowled, "Susan was around my age, that's way too young for finding a mate!" These rich people are such creeps!
Bruce stiffened slightly, "Inside voices, Jay-lad. It's a cultural thing. Like your Austin books, it would be a long engagement to see if the partnership would be in everyone's best interest."
The young vigilante pushed away to get some distance, "Do... You're not gonna make me marry one of these girls are you?"
Bruce shot him a smirk, "Not if you keep scaring them away, lad."
The sugary taste in his mouth turned sour, as his stomach churned painfully. Was that the price for being Bruce Wayne's son? For being Robin? Is that why Dick left? For a second he considered it, but no. If Bruce was gonna arrange a marriage for him then he'd surely be allowed to refuse matches, right? He didn't want to have to go back to the streets, to being no body, packless. Not after getting a taste of what a happy pack could be, of getting to be Robin. He preferred being a hero to a two bit thief any day. But getting his entire life plotted out for him? Not being able to fall in love spontaneously, that hurt. Idly he wondered if this odd unmoored yet restricted feeling is what fueled Jane's writings. Realism never felt so harrowing. He'd unconsciously started kneading at his blazer, Bruce tapped his chin lightly to get his attention, "Jason? It was only a jok-"
"Brucie! Wonderful to see you here!" The matriarch of the Drake pack called over, swooping into their personal space, forcing Bruce to either drop him or the plate. The alpha barely managed to avoid spilling the treats all over the ground as he gave the beta lady an awkward one armed hug, "And your little guest. How sweet."
"Janet my dear, we wouldn't miss it for the world. Where is the man of the hour?" He asked in that high pitched saccharine 'Brucie voice', nodding his greeting to the alpha Drake, who approached with a little miniature version of himself with his mother's deep blue eyes. This must be the kid Bruce was talking about. Jason swore he'd seen that kid around before, was it at another party? Bruce said they were neighbors but he never ran into anyone while he was out on a run or walking Ace. He looked really young, too young to be presenting as an alpha anyway. Bruce knelt down to be closer to the kids level, "There you are, Timothy wasn't it?"
"Yes Mr Wayne, it's a pleasure to finally meet you." The boy responded, offering to shake hands. He had a perfect Bristol accent, straight hair that was easily swept back, clear skin, perfect posture and teeth. He was already an alpha and he had to be like four years younger than him! Jason resented him immediately. This is what these people expected? Someone like him never stood a chance. The heir glanced at him before immediately dismissing him to focus on Bruce again. Typical. Jason wished he'd agreed to just stay home. He was never gonna let himself get guilted or convinced to do something he wasn't completely invested in.
In a huff, the vigilante turned to watch the crowd, at least they'd said hi, maybe they could leave soon? He tried to zone back in on the conversation but it was just Bruce complaining about not having enough deserts. He rolled his eyes, almost jumping out of his skin when the gesture attracted the spoiled brats attention. The kid just stared at him before smirking. God, he wanted to punch his ticket!
Suddenly the head Drake pat his shoulder with the very tips of his fingers, as if he was afraid to fully commit to touching him, "Right Sport?" The stranger said with clearly staged enthusiasm. Life on the streets, heck even just life with Willis had already drilled the lesson to never agree with someone just because you didn't hear them. He cast a glance towards Bruce for guidance, not liking how the older man's eyes had narrowed. Trying to play it off as a large golly grin squinting them to hide whatever emotions he wasn't sure he could keep out of them.
"A sweet tooth certainly seems to run in the family, although he's not nearly as bad. Thankfully he didn't inherit my lack of restraint!"
"Inherited? Wasn't the boy adopted?" Mr Drake questioned, ignoring his wife's reprimanding look.
"Environment, not hereditary." Bruce scoffed, giving Jason a one armed hug, "I'm glad the paper work is finally done with! I don't know how he did it but my dear Jason was a trooper, I could barely function while I was waiting for all the 't's to be dotted and the 'i's crossed. Meanwhile, Jason is already top of his class in multiple subjects!" Jason flushed, looking away. He wished Bruce would stop calling attention to him at these types of events. Even if it did feel good to be complimented by his dad for doing well in school.
"Oh I know what you mean. Our Timmy has skipped two grades already, he's in such a rush to mature! It'll be no time at all before he's taking over Drake Industries and we can retire knowing it's in good hands." The alpha Drake boosted, slapping his son on the back, knocking him forward with the force of it. Jason didn't like that, but no one else reacted and that kid kept staring up at his dad with a smile so maybe he was just overreacting? Alfred did it to Bruce sometimes, but with their size difference it didn't look as bad. He forced his frown to smooth out before anyone could notice, "Is this the one that's going to be taking over Wayne Enterprises then?" The alpha asked, oblivious to the vicious side eye from his wife and son at the blatant question.
"Come now, Jack! You know I never think more than a day ahead." So Jack was the alpha's name! Or maybe not, Bruce liked to pretend her got everyone's name wrong, "Besides, I hesitate to leave any of my children to deal with the headache that is the board!"
That got a genuine laugh from the other alpha -potentially named Jack-, "Quite true, but our Timothy is a natural!" Jason resisted the urge to scoff, that kid was barely an alpha! He still had that milky scent for cripes sake! (Although what did that make him? He was older than the Drake kid and still hadn't presented, shorter than everyone else his age too. And he'd been pack alpha for a while before he rumbled it). He felt another wave of loathing for the kid wash over him. The adults seemed to keep chatting until the wife tugged her husband's arm discretely. Linking arms the couple started to guide their son away. "Tell me then, is this one promised to that omega you had for a while? He'd want to hurry up and grow before he misses the window to have a fertile mate!" Jack laughed, while his family and Bruce balked. Jason's stomach screwed up tighter, the idea of having to marry Dick was just icky! Sure he wasn't much of a brother, but he was a dude! And so old compared to him, not to mention he didn't even like him as a brother or friend. Having a mate that despised you sounded like hell! The only solace he had was seeing how outraged and repulsed Bruce was by the comment. At least if Bruce was going to pick out a mate for him it wasn't going to be Dick.
"Ah Duty calls, you know how it is Bruce." Do try to leave some appetizers for the rest of our guests, Brucie dear." The beta woman (Janet) called as she guided her mate and son back to their schmoozing.
"No promises, darling." Bruce knelt down to be closer to the boys level, "It was an honor to met you, ancillary alpha Drake." He nodded to the kid, offering a hand shake.
"It's been a pleasure Mr Wayne." The kid beamed, seemingly very happy with the mature greeting. Yeah, Jason would prefer stupid handshakes over creeps mauling his hair too.
The family headed back into the crowd while the two vigilantes both fell back into silence, scanning the room to avoid talking for a moment. Social batteries at a desperate low, "Oh give me strength," Bruce growled under his breath suddenly, "Jay, how about you go find some people your own age for a moment."
"Why, what's goin' on?" He asked, stepping on his tip toes to try get a look.
"Van, My dear old cousins rotten brat has arrived." Bruce groaned, before smoothing into his 'I hate you' socialite face, a big bland smile before stalking off.
"Ew, gross. Say no more, B." He hated that Vanderveer bozo more than anyone and they'd only spoken for four minutes before the brat had ran back to his dad in tears! The way he always had to be better than you and tried to talk over you every time you started a sentence was wildly annoying. How could a guy a few months older than Dick be so obnoxious and so thin skinned at the same time!?
Maybe because he was a Wayne. Huh, if he could still have enough standing to be invited to this sort of event then maybe there was hope for him as well?
Looking around while Bruce went to put out whatever fire Van was starting, he noticed a congregation of kids close to his own age hanging around some ugly esoteric statue with children's champagne. They seemed to be having fun, and he only recognized a few of the boys from Gotham Academy but none of them where kids that had messed with him yet. Taking a breath to steel himself he made his way over through the crowd, stopping to snag his own kiddie champagne on the way to join the group as seamlessly as possible. There were a group of girls in the middle, omega's by the smell of them. They had these odd accents, kinda French-like, "So, are youze from Paris?" The conversation reached a dead halt the second he spoke up.
"Il a vraiment l’air d’un colon. We are from Québec, niaiseux." The oldest girl spoke up, looking him up and down. Jason blinked, he spoke French just fine, but he had no idea what that meant. Although judging by the tone and the laughter elicited it wasn't a compliment.
"Oh, so youze are from Vermont then?" Bruce had mentioned owning property up there, it made sense if that's where these girls came from too. The entire group burst out in cruel laughter, he was getting real sick of being the butt of every joke tonight.
One of the guys he barely recognized from school through an arm over his shoulder, "<You have to excuse our friend, no, not friend, um... Guest? He's very stupid. Talk slow around him>." The boy said in halting, shaky French.
"<I'm scoring ahead of you in our oral French lessons>." He reminded, shrugging the kids arm off his shoulders. He wasn't stupid! "So, you're not from Vermont then?" He tried speaking to the girls again.
"Your accent is... Unrefined." The middle girl spoke up, making her friends giggle.
"<So I've been told>." He tried to play it off all charming and suave like. The oaf who tried to speak for him suddenly growled, wrenching his shoulder to try face him.
"You got something to say to me, Todd!" The other boy, an alpha by the scent of him growled. Jason quickly shifted to size him up. He was taller than him, obviously, but that didn't scare him anymore.
"It's Wayne." He snarled back.
"Rufus, let's not in front of the ladies." One of his lackeys caught the older boy by the shoulder as if to hold him back, casting a glance towards them those harpies seemed excited by the prospect of an alpha challenge happening because of them. Jason could only roll his eyes, clearly they weren't worth fighting over but his own dignity was.
"Yeah Rufus, maybe spend more time practicing your oral skills and less time chasing skirt." He taunted, swirling his fizzy kids champagne smugly before knocking the glass back. It was weird, kinda like a sweeter less bitter tonic water.
The taller boy's glare cracked into a vindictive little smirk, "You'd know all about oral wouldn't you, Todd?" The other kids had stopped laughing, watching with intrigue now. Omegan glee filling the air around them.
Jason frowned, closing the distance Rufus' little stoolie put between them, "What's that 'pose to mean?"
"Everyone knows what your mom was. I bet she thought you a whole lot, you must have been a great help keeping the drugs coming in. Especially for scamming your way into the Wayne Fortune."
Jason flexed his fists, a warning growl rattling up from the bottom of his chest, how dare he! The vigilante imagined punching the posh prick in the face until he caved it in completely. He had no right to talk about his mom!
"Careful now, didn't his dad die in prison? Maybe he takes after that one!" The blond boy who he didn't even recognize from school spoke up with a sharp toothed grin.
"Can you imagine the scandals he's going to cause! No wonder Wayne wants him around. It's sad to see the Wayne Dynasty lead to ruin because of one drunken pedophile." Rufus let out a mocking sigh, getting a few taunting hums of 'solemn' agreement. These stupid self righteous snobs had better shut their mouths about his dad, mom and Willis! What the hell did they even know!
He wanted to beat the older boys teeth in. Make him choke on his vile words if not his own tongue. But he didn't know enough about this jerk's family to even throw in his face! He didn't even remember the kids name was Rufus until his buddy stepped in. Bruce would be so mad at him if he got into a fight, and it would only assure all of these jag offs that he was some feral mutt who didn't belong here. If it were only these losers opinions he'd have pounced already, but Bruce's opinion of him mattered too much to risk it on these runts. He tried to take a breath, but the clashing alpha aggression and omega amusement only made riled him up even more.
"Oh, he's got nothing to say to that one huh? Not so clever now, are you?" The boys turned back to the omega's, Rufus of course had to get in another jab, "And for the record, as good as his oral is, he's illiterate. You should have seen him trying to stammer his way through half a sentence for a full two minutes before our professor skipped him! He belongs in remedial."
Jason scowled at him, he could feel the flush taking over his face, made even worse by the fact that it wasn't even a lie. He could speak English, Russian, French, Spanish and Italian just fine but reading most of those languages wasn't something he was great at yet. He even struggled to write in English sometimes, Bruce had him tested and said it was something called 'mild dyslexia'. He hadn't seemed concerned about it and Jason was too afraid to ask about what it was. He barely remembered Willis' friends teasing him for having it too, but they just said it was a symptom of being stupid, "I can read!" He snapped, although it seems he was already getting closed out of the gathering.
"Tabarnak! Ostie qu’il m’énerve!" The older girl spoke up again with a condescending cackle.
"You heard the lady, why don't you go lower the property value somewhere else?" The blond boy spoke, sounding almost as if he was looking out for him. He hated them all.
"Yeah whatever, I hope the rest of your day is a pleasant as youze are." He hissed, stalking away from the laughter stabbing him in the back. Why was everyone here such jerks?! How did they even know he wasn't from here? Was it that obvious?! He was officially a Wayne now, how come everyone still acted like he was some narrows thug with gutter in his veins?!
He tried to look around for Bruce but the crowd was still too thick, it didn't help that tonight it seemed both the Drakes and Bruce had gravitational fields around them. He seemed to have a magnets revulsion. Good, he didn't want to have to make nice with any of these weirdos! He snagged two more flutes of children's champagne to take into the quietest corner of the ball room, near the entrance to the bathrooms. He tried to force himself to think about nothing. Leaning back into the wall and staring at the drinks. His stomach churned again, almost like when he first came to the manor and he'd puke up everything he was fed no matter how much he tried to resist. He'd worried they were trying to poison or drug him at first. He still couldn't even sleep in the big bed Bruce had given him. Curling up on the plush couch in his room or with a blanket under the bed. Bet those snooty fopdoodles never once had trouble keeping food down, or even went without for any length of time that they didn't personally choose to. They probably couldn't even sleep on a bed that wasn't massive and like quicksand. How dare they speak about his mom, about Willis! What gave those smug jerks the gall to throw that in his face?! He knocked back the glass of fake champagne before staring into the remaining glass, watching the bubbles shivering up from the bottom of the glass.
His headache was only getting worse. All the endless noise, and smell, and lights. It was too much to bare! Where was Bruce when he needed him? Can't he leave Van to his own embarrassment so they could go home already? Jason began worrying his hands again, he should stop. People muttered about it making him look shifty.
They said he was gonna be a criminal, like Willis. Technically he was, he'd stolen from Bruce and assaulted him when caught. No one knew that story, he hoped. But it made him feel like a fake when Bruce told the cover story to a swooning crowd of old ladies.
They called his mom a whore. And okay, I guess in the most strictest definition she was. She sold her heats and body for money, but only when they were really desperate! It was a sign of he and Willis' failure that she'd have to resort to that, not a personal indictment of her character! What did some coddled pups know about desperation!? If only he'd grown up quicker... Had he presented at ten then maybe his mom wouldn't have gotten so bad without Willis around? Although, if he had presented at 10, maybe he'd have been with Willis when he got arrested?
Being Bruce Wayne's son officially had been so sweet. He hadn't even considered what other people would think of him. He'd assumed, naively, that other people's opinions wouldn't matter. It felt like it mattered now...
"H-hey!" A small voice spoke up, nearly making him jump out of his skin. He only just realized he'd broken the skin. Shit, he was going to get blood everywhere, "Wayne. uh Jason Wayne, right?"
Shifting to hide his bloody hand behind his back, he turned to face the newcomer. He's sure his face immediately soured further, it was the kid. Yay...
"Yeah, hey. Timothy." He even had a snobby name.
"Hi." He said again, looking slightly more flustered, "Um... So, you having fun?"
Why was this mook bothering him?! "Oodles." He responded flatly, leaning back against the wall to put some space between himself and the kid. Idly wondering which of his parents had sent him over. Probably his dad. Jack(?) Drake made no secret of wondering about his availability.
"Cool. That's good right? Cool." He nodded, "I appreciate your presence here tonight."
"... Sure." God this was awkward, "D'ja'want something or?"
"J-just wanted to talk properly. I mean, you're Bruce Wayne's son now? That must be sooo cool! What's Dick Grayson like? Is he still.. y'know, all friendly? I like your sweater, red's my favorite color too-"
Jason fought back a snarl, intimidating the host would be really terrible manners. But he didn't want to hear more about how hot this random kid thought his brother was! "He's got a girlfriend, she's real pretty and tall. And real territorial." The kid's face dropped, it boiled his blood to see how mind blowing the little runt seemed to find the concept that someone wouldn't be into him, so he added for good measure, "And I'm not an omega, even if I were I would never lay down for the likes of you!" He hissed into the kids face, quiet as possible to avoid causing a scene. The pompous pup seemed to flinch back from him, if it were anyone else he might have felt bad about that.
"Wh-N-no I didn't mean-"
Jason scoffed, finally catching sight of Bruce, oh thank God! He pushed the weirdo aside to make his way back to his dad's side. He'd be safer with Bruce, things were easier to manage with his pack alpha around. Bruce beamed down at him, the way his eyes darted over him the only tip off that Bruce could see his discomfort, he always could. The pup bared his teeth in that pleasantly blank gala smile as he slotted in beside him, slightly closer than he normally would. His adopted dad threw his arm over his shoulder, hugging him against his side proudly, "Sliver, this is my son, Jason Wayne. Jay, this is the ever beautiful Sliver St.Cloud."
This lady at least looked at him with genuine kindness. Beautiful was an understatement, she looked ethereal and elegant. Reminiscent of Tolkien's vivid descriptions of Galadriel, tall and ageless with platinum blonde hair, "Jason, how wonderful to finally meet you. Your father's been telling me all about you, but he didn't mention how utterly adorable you were." She offered her hand to him, as if he were an alpha gentleman. His kiss was a touch too shy to be smooth but she didn't seem bothered. He and Bruce stayed talking with her for a while, turns out she was another bleeding heart type, like Bruce. Someone who actually tried to help and understand those forgotten and over looked by society. She'd apparently been the one to fund and donate most of the local library he used to frequent. She was nice to talk to, if only the others would be more like her, the world would be a better place.
Bruce let out a fake yawn, "Ah, Do forgive me, I think it's far past my bedtime. Shall we away, Jay?"
Jason rolled his eyes, "Sure B, let's scram." Sliver pulled the both of them into an embrace, whispering into the boys ear to save a dance for her next time.
The batsignal was on, thank goodness! After a night like that he could do with blowing off some steam! And they got to ride the Chevrolet Caprice back home too. Perhaps this night could be redeemed?
"Jay-lad, what happened in there?" Bruce asked, his voice solemn again, no more silly put on socialite lilt.
Stupid, it was all just stupid playground taunts. A real man wouldn't let it get to him! Telling Bruce would only make him seem immature and thin skinned, it didn't matter! None of it. "It don't matter. Just the usual."
"Jason, it matters to me. Clearly it matters to you too-"
"Well it shouldn't! And it don't, and it won't fer much longer once we get out there an' see what the fellas in blue need!" He chirped, hopefully Harvey Bullock was there, he could do with his favorite verbal punching bag after tonight. That big lug was growing on him. Like a fungus.
The Dark knight went silent for the rest of the drive home, and most of their prep work. But that was fine, made it easier to slip into the Robin mindset and leave that dirty little street thief turned charity case behind. By the time he was waiting next to the Batmobile he was buzzing with energy. The vigilante felt like that kiddie champagne, all sweet and bubbly, barely able to be contained, "C'mooooooooooooon! Hurry up slowpoke!" He cried as Batman approached, grinning so wide he almost felt like his face would split.
Bruce shot him a small smile, kneeling down in front of him instead of getting into the car, "Jay-lad, you don't pay what they said any mind, understood? There's nothing wrong with how you speak or eat, walk or look. These are all just... small minded people, with too much money and too little of substance in their own lives. Nothing they say is a reflection on you only on them. You're my son, I love you no matter what anyone else has to say about it. You can marry for love, eat whatever you want when you want, and walk away from anyone who chooses to insult you or make you even slightly uncomfortable. Okay?"
Blindsided, the pup just stared, glad of the domino giving him a level of privacy in this unexpectedly vulnerable moment, "... You dope, yer foggin' up my mask." He muttered, watching the smile get slightly bigger on his father's face. Screw it, he flopped into the armored chest. It was always easier to seek out comfort as Robin than Jason. Strong arms closed around him, not even a few months ago it would have still felt restricting and scary, now it felt... Warmer, nicer. Like a big cozy nest. Like home.
"... Thanks, dad."