Bella MacLeod's Twilight Fanfiction

The Wayne Legacy: Knightmare

By BetterInTexas

Chapter 06:

Wayne Enterprises Executive Suites – Penthouse / Wayne Tower

Downtown Gotham

It was going on two weeks since Sam’s entire life had changed, and she was currently bored. She had never taken this much time off before, not being in a position to be able to do so, and she didn’t know what to do with herself.

Diana had wanted her to take an entire week off before coming to the office and Sam had agreed, knowing there was much to do in starting her new life in Gotham City.

Though they were initially spending nights in the manor, the days were spent taking tours of Gotham with Alfred and moving into their new penthouse suite.

A week ago, she had called her old boss and given her resignation. The man had laughed, thinking she was joking.

When she explained she wasn’t, he told her not to be a fool. He understood she was angry at being passed over for the Chief Operating Officer position, but she was young and had to pay her dues. In another ten years, she would be ready.

It was one of the most satisfying moments in Sam’s life when she told him Diana Wayne disagreed with his assessment of her readiness and had offered her the prestigious position of Vice President of Wayne Enterprises which she had accepted. She asked him to wait for the press release that afternoon before telling anyone.

She then informed him that a representative from Wayne Enterprises would be arriving in the afternoon to gather her personal belongings from her small office, which amounted to two framed photos of her and Ruby and her favorite coffee mug.

Alfred had coordinated the move. Their house was packed up and the furniture, along with items she didn’t need, was shipped to Wayne Manor for storage. A real estate office in Philly had already placed their house on the market.

Sam had spent a few days hanging their family pictures on the wall, finding a spot to display Ruby’s childhood drawings, unpacking their casual clothes and other personal items both had scattered about their former home.

Ruby had unpacked her things and set up her room to her satisfaction, finding their nerf guns and ammo in a box then attacking Sam in an all-out assault which had them laughing and chasing each other all over the expansive penthouse.

Sam was very happy to find her oldest pair of sneakers in one of the first boxes she’d opened. The penthouse had a personal gym that, while it wasn’t large, was equipped with a very fancy treadmill and bike. To take advantage of the equipment, she needed her old, comfy sneakers.

She also wanted her sheets and blankets. Despite having sets of sheets that probably cost more than she made last year, there was something about having her own bedding that appealed to her.

Sam had asked Ruby if she wanted to return to Philly for a couple days to say goodbye to her friends. Ruby told her that’s what video chatting was for, and she had no desire to go anywhere other than Wayne Tower or the Executive Suites.

Kara had promised to give them a personal tour of the school tomorrow and Ruby was bouncing off the walls she was so excited. Her desire to see the renowned school was palatable, but that Kara herself was going to be with them had her daughter on cloud nine.

Her fourteen-year-old loved everything about their new environment. Ruby was taking to luxury living as if she had been born for it. She spent a lot of time on the entertainment floor and had already made friends her own age. Many children lived in the building. Most of them, being sons and daughters of high placed Wayne Enterprises’ department heads, were intelligent and into some of the same subjects she enjoyed, like robotics.

Ruby had told her Barbara Gordon would come to the gaming stations on the entertainment floor occasionally, as well as Winn Schott, and the kids spoke about them in reverence. Gordon was the rock star of the computer world and Winn was a big deal in the video game world. Word had it even Kara visited the Executive Suites to see Barbara Gordon.

The view from the penthouse suite was amazing. The furniture, the bedrooms, the sauna, the kitchen, everything in the suite made Sam feel as if she were living in some dream she would soon wake up from.

She had briefly thought of looking for a house but after a night here, she could see Diana’s point of view. The security was top notch. No one was getting into this building that didn’t belong. It was part of the Wayne Tower no-fly zone, so it was protected from any aerial attacks.

The huge balcony was amazing, but she and Ruby hadn’t used it much. She had never lived in a two-story house and now she was living on the top floor of an eighty-story building, a far cry from the rundown, economy apartment she had lived in when Ruby was a newborn.

It was also extremely convenient as her office was literally across the street on the one hundred and eighth floor of Wayne Tower.

Sam picked up her tablet and opened the news, something she had been avoiding. She had hoped that the simple press release of her hiring would be barely noticed. Instead, it was a media storm. Diana had warned her that would be the case.

It seemed that everyone Sam had ever met was interviewed regarding her. Her mother had thankfully said ‘no comment’ rather than saying anything disparaging. Sam had not spoken to the woman since she left home at eighteen and they had never been close before. Ruby was all the family Sam needed.

It wasn’t as bad as she suspected it would be though. It had been mentioned that she was a single mother, but no publication had asked about the father of her child.

She suspected Diana had something to do with the media backing off the issue of Ruby’s father. While news agencies were always hungry for information on the Wayne family, they were very careful about what was printed.

She knew a Daily Planet reporter had been fired after breaking protocol at a press conference and challenging Kara Wayne, blatantly calling her a war profiteer and then subtly calling her a murderer responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands over her lifetime. Kara had made him look like a fool and Sam heard the man still couldn’t find work in journalism. He had become a pariah that no news agency would touch, and the Planet had been sued for slander by Wayne Enterprises.

There were no criticisms of her hiring that she could see in the news today. Only one article, in a less than stellar magazine, praised Diana Wayne for hiring a woman as vice president while also suggesting Diana was running a modeling agency out of the top floor of Wayne Enterprises.

Not even the news could keep her interest this morning though. Every time she looked out the wall of one-way glass towards Wayne Tower, she longed to be working, to learn as much as she could, as quickly as she could. She sighed, giving up trying to find something mindless to do and decided to go visit her new boss.

The woman prepared herself, makeup, hair and a blue dress that was among other clothes bought for her to wear during the work week.

When she and Ruby were staying at the manor, Diana had her own personal shopper assist Sam with filling out her business wardrobe, personally making sure Sam had more than enough to complement her current attire.

Once she felt presentable, Sam picked up her security badge and took her private elevator to the ground floor, then walked across the street confidently, her head held high. She received a few looks of recognition, but no one stopped and stared which made her feel better.

She walked into the lobby of the Tower to one of several metal detectors but was waived aside by a guard. All the guards nodded towards her in greeting. She continued walking to the Wayne sisters’ private elevator which had been authorized for her use. It was the only elevator in the lobby that went straight to the 108th floor with no stops. It also required a badge like the one she now had to enter. To her relief, her badge worked, and the elevator began rising, thought she wouldn’t know it by how smooth the ride was.

“Good morning, Miss Arias.” Athena’s voice greeted her, causing Sam to nearly jump out of her skin.

“Please call me Sam, Athena.”

“As you wish, Sam. My instructions are now updated. Will you be going to your office, or would you like to see Diana or Kara?”

Sam raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Is Kara in her office?”

“Kara is on the ninety-second floor in Dr. Parlow’s lab. ” Athena informed her.

“Of course she is.” Sam muttered, a smile on her face at correctly guessing Kara would be anywhere but her office. “I came to speak to Diana, Athena.”

“I will alert her you are coming.”

In her office, Diana was going over the financial reports submitted by her top executives in the food industry concerning their signature fast food restaurant, Burger Palace. So far this year, the number of Burger Palace stores that were classed as franchises was at ninety-three percent, two percent below her targeted ninety-five percent goal this year. Despite needing two percent to reach the business goal, they were collecting eighty-two percent profit margin due to lower investment costs versus sales from franchises compared to twenty-two percent from Wayne Enterprises run units where the company’s investment outlay involved everything up to and including purchasing the real estate the store was built on.

So far, in this fiscal year, Wayne had earned a profit of one-hundred and sixty-two billion. Once that two percent target was reached by the end of next year, she hoped to be drawing in nearly two-hundred billion dollars, second only to McDonalds which she had in her sights.

As she had explained to Sam, Wayne Enterprises was not only about creating weapons systems and breaking new ground in clean energy and medical research.

She continued to read the reports on the movie theaters, bowling alleys, chain restaurants, hotel and motel franchises, and other industries Wayne Enterprises made billions from. The budgets were balanced, the growth was consistent and the entertainment division as a whole was doing well.

The 3D markets, gaming markets and motion capture markets were growing and becoming a force in Hollywood as well as worldwide. She asked Athena to order a case of that Winn guy’s favorite wine and have it sent to him in appreciation of his efforts.

As Diana pored over the reports, Athena alerted her that Sam was on her way up. She smiled, not the least bit surprised. It was early on Wednesday afternoon, and she suspected Sam was finally bored after having been off for several days to set up her new life in Gotham.

Sam walked in and Diana stood to greet her, motioning her to the sofas.

“Couldn’t stay away, could you?” Diana asked, knowingly.

Sam looked a bit embarrassed. “Ruby is already making new friends, so I am obsolete, and we haven’t been here two weeks yet. I think Alfred has shown us all around Gotham. The news isn’t conducting a search for Ruby’s father or anything about him. I honestly thought we might have a problem with that.”

Diana waved it off. “I sent a message recently to the media, warning them to play nice.”

“A message? What kind of message? Like an email?” Sam asked, not having seen anything of the sort in the stories she had seen earlier.

“Like Snapper Carr.” Diana answered. “Don’t be surprised if you haven’t heard of him… no one ever will. Later next week, I will be doing an interview with Lois Lane of the Daily Planet discussing your hire, the direction of Wayne Enterprises, the new government contracts and other issues we will agree on ahead of time. If you would like to be involved, you are more than welcome. A print interview may be a good way to introduce yourself to the world.”

“Lois Lane? I’ve never heard of her either.” Sam said.

“She is the daughter of a dear family friend, General Samuel Lane.” Diana explained. “She has recently started a career in journalism, and I am hoping a one on one interview with me will give her a bit of recognition. Sam Lane has done much for me and Kara, especially when we began getting government contracts. He was close friends with my father… a familiar and supportive figure as we grew and after our parents’ death.

“The Daily Planet asked for an interview, and I agreed on the condition that she be the one interviewing me. After the stupidity of the Carr fiasco, Perry White would lick dirt off my shoes if I asked him to.”

Sam’s eyes widened but she shouldn’t have been surprised. She didn’t know Carr’s name, but she had been thinking the same thing that morning about the man who called Kara Wayne a war profiteer publicly. “Okay… got anything for me to do?”

Diana thought about it and nodded. “I’ll send files to your desk computer. They are dossiers on people that will be at your party, at least the important ones. Every one of them are my people, meaning they do what I say.”

“How many people?” Sam asked, imagining a lot of people would owe Diana Wayne a favor.

“More than you are thinking now, but the files just go over the ones who will be at the party and have the most influence. I will be sending you another set of files containing dossiers on our enemies.

“Speaking of which, John has a list of applicants the two of you will need to interview for your personal bodyguard. The security you have now is fine but once you want to venture out of the downtown area, you will need someone with you coordinating your protectors.”

Sam was surprised by that. “The security I have now? I don’t have security.”

Diana smiled knowingly. “Have you driven anywhere by yourself? Earlier, when you crossed the street, security in the lobby of the Suites watched you walk into the Plaza where four plain clothes security guards followed you until you reached security in the lobby.”

“Oh…”

“Once Ruby is of an age that she can drive, or begins exploring without you, she will have a personal bodyguard as well. I won’t take chances with either of you.

“Now go and relax in your office. There is an icon on the top left of your screen that shows you a live feed of the entertainment floor if you want to keep an eye on Ruby. I can have cameras installed in the penthouse to watch her that only you would have access to, but not everyone is comfortable with the idea of cameras in their home, no matter how private they are.”

Sam stood and smiled walking towards the door, Diana following her until she exited the office.

Cathy looked up at Diana and smiled. “Is it all sinking in for her yet?”

“It will take a while, but she is catching on fast.” Diana replied. “We need a list of applicants for her executive assistant.”

Seeing her assistant make a note to do just that, Diana asked, “Could you connect Bruce to my office?”

Diana closed her door, moving back to her desk and returning to her reports until Cathy told her Bruce was on the line.

“Hello, brother.”

“Do you have any idea how annoying it is to answer the phone and be told to hold for Diana Wayne? Would it kill you to pick up the phone and dial yourself?”

Diana chuckled and Bruce heard enough to know she had done it to screw with him.

“It’s easier to have a call put through than to actually dial. What’s the point of being filthy rich if I have to dial a phone myself?” She explained, her tone oozing mirth. “Have you met with the gentleman I sent to your crime mansion?”

“The personal shopper? Yes, thank you for that. I wasn’t sure how I would pick my own suit to wear to a party.” Bruce replied sarcastically.

“You are welcome.” Diana told him smiling. “You called last night. What did you want?”

“If you would have answered you would know. It was only eleven at night.”

“Steve and I were making love from ten thirty to around midnight.” Diana told him gleefully. “By the time we finished, I suspected you would have been prowling the streets of Gotham and I was exhausted.”

Bruce groaned. “Too much information, Diana.”

“I could have answered while we were in the act, but I doubt you would have been able to understand me. Sometimes I begin speaking in different languages when…”

“Diana!”

Diana was laughing hard at that point, enjoying getting under his skin. She could see in her mind the bright blush on his cheeks. “I am sorry, Bruce. I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.”

“Yes, you did! Everything you just said was meant to make me uncomfortable!”

“You are right, I did. The amazing part is everything I said was true.” She told her exasperated brother. “So, what did you want to speak to me about last night?”

“Rachel.”

Diana’s mood soured instantly. “Goodbye, Bruce.”

“Damn it, Diana, don’t hang up. I understand you hate her but sending her into Arkham Asylum is a bit of overkill, isn’t it? That place is dangerous. Planting bugs and spying on a mad doctor is over the top, even for you and that is almost impossible.”

Diana let out a breath, her anger fully in check. “I’m not making her do anything, Bruce. She had some job Silver procured for her. I told her once she left Gotham she could find any job she wanted. I suggested to Harvey she might be interested in this assignment, and he approached her with this offer. She agreed. What do you want me to do? She wanted back in the DA’s office… now she is.”

“Stop punishing her.” Bruce said, the disapproval evident in his voice. “She has been punished enough, Diana. Putting her life in danger is taking it too far. Tell Harvey not to let her go through with it.”

Diana snorted. “The offer has been made and she accepted it. If you feel so strongly, visit her yourself and talk her out of it.”

“Harvey may have offered but I know she was scared of what would happen if she turned him down.” Bruce replied knowingly.

“Perhaps she wants to make amends for letting our parents’ murderer out on the streets and feels that bringing another murderer down will somewhat atone for that. Ask her yourself if you want but I will not be getting involved. She works for Harvey now. She isn’t my problem unless she makes herself a problem. I’m sure she will have a demon bat looking over her shoulder while she works in that terrible neighborhood.”

Bruce was silent for a moment. “You aren’t the only one who can affect her life, Diana. I’m a billionaire too, in case you forgot.”

“Yes, but you aren’t a very good billionaire.” Diana told him. “Do as you wish, Bruce. Someone is going into Arkham. We need to know what is going on in there. If not her, you tell me who. I don’t care if someone else goes in if it gets results, but it would alter the deal she made with Harvey.”

“I will talk to her… wait… what do you mean, I’m not a good billionaire? How does someone even qualify to be a… I’m trying to have a serious conversation, Diana.” Bruce said petulantly. “What has you in such a playful mood today?”

“Did you not hear me say what I was doing between ten-thirty and midnight last night? Do you know what it takes to get me exhausted?” she asked in a serious tone.

Bruce groaned once more. “Forget it. Is there anything else you called for?”

“You know you have to be on your best behavior Saturday, right? No playboy Bruce, no brooding Bruce, no cocky Bruce.”

Bruce was silent for a moment before replying, “You want me to come dressed as a bat? Because you just told me I couldn’t be any of my other personas.”

Diana sighed, wondering if he even remembered what it was like to just be himself and not put on a disguise for the world to see. As she thought about it, she realized brooding Bruce was the only true Bruce there was since their parents’ death… that is unless Kara was around him. He had his moments in high school, times he forgot the pain and just had fun. They reminded Diana of a simpler and happier time… when Kara was a toddler, Bruce wanted to be a doctor and their parents were alive.

“Kara wants you there. She suggested to me that you be invited. This is big, Bruce. Not long ago, she didn’t want anything to do with you. Now she is visiting you, talking to you at dinner and now wants you at this party. You must be on your best behavior.” Diana told him sincerely.

“She only tolerates me because you guilted her into it. You should have never told her what happened on Themyscira. I didn’t give away your secret.”

“She needed to know you still truly loved her, Bruce. That you didn’t want to be in her life only for what she could do for you.”

“It wasn’t your decision.”

“Of course it was my decision.” Diana said emphatically.

“Because you make all the decisions concerning her.” Bruce countered.

Diana closed her eyes and took a calming breath. “If that were true, she wouldn’t be dating Tommy Merlyn.

“I am not in the mood to have this recurring argument again. Are you bringing a date?”

“I thought about bringing Selena since she is back in town.”

“Goodbye, Bruce.”

“What about Rachel…”

“Goodbye, Bruce!”

Diana ended the call, frustrated but after reflecting on the discussion, she smiled. He sounded better. He sounded more like her Bruce than he had in years. They once had such an easy time around each other, at least until they grew older. Bruce grew angrier, and Diana grew more focused on taking over the world.

She never thought she would see that Bruce again, feel easy in his presence. Like she told Kara, her Bruce was still there. It wasn’t too late.

She just hoped his fondness for Rachel wouldn’t become a problem.

---

Saturday evening, Hotel Belle Monico Ballroom

Kara, Tommy and Dig stood in the front of the ballroom as guests came in. Unlike most billionaires, Diana insisted on being the first one at her party. For her, coming in fashionably late was a faux paux. If she invited people, she was going to be there to welcome them.

She stood at the door in a long silver dress with Steve on one side wearing his Air Force dress uniform and Sam Arias on the other, wearing a cream white, strapless dress. They were just past the metal detectors and security guards verifying invitations. The line outside was long, and it was clear everyone wanted a chance to talk to the new mystery woman who had come out of nowhere to be Diana’s right hand.

“Does your family own this place?” Tommy asked.

“No, some Brazilian millionaires. I’m not sure of their names. We probably could but Diana says we can’t own everything in Gotham. We own most of it, but I suppose it is good for other businesses to come in.” She told him. “This hotel has a lot of history. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Gotham, probably built around the same time as Wayne Manor. I don’t want to think about how many people have probably died here.”

Kara noticed Tommy’s eyes drifting over her body and grinned. She had gone all out tonight, letting her hair fall long and free in golden waves, contacts in her blue eyes, making them even brighter, and a pair of silver hoop earrings. She wore a backless, pale pink, silk dress which flowed evenly over her hips to the floor with spaghetti straps and a formfitting bodice.

Tommy himself looked great in his tux and it reminded her of the first time they had met. She never imagined at the time that they would be here.

“Have a I told you how beautiful you look tonight?” He asked, leaning in to whisper directly in her ear.

Kara nodded, a small smile gracing her face. “You can keep saying it though. Not long ago, I was thinking what I really needed was another raven-haired beauty in an office next to mine who I could compare myself to.”

Tommy held back a groan. Kara was still working on her self-esteem issues, but she was getting better. Unfortunately, and through no fault of her own, Samantha Arias’ arrival may have set that progress back a bit.

The large ballroom was filling up and a string quartet began to play in the background. Tables were being filled, bars were serving drinks and waiters were working the growing crowd with champagne.

Then Bruce arrived alone, dressed handsomely in a tux.

“Oh, thank God.” She whispered.

“What’s up? Are you that glad he is here? I thought you two were kind of touch and go.” Tommy asked.

“I’m glad. I was just worried he would bring Selina Kyle or Rachel Dawes or do something equally stupid just to get a rise out of Diana.” She said, the relief in her voice obvious.

Tommy didn’t know Bruce well enough to know whether he would do something like that. Because of Kara’s limited interactions with her brother, Tommy didn’t know the man well and had only spoken with him a few times.

He was about to get himself and Kara fresh drinks when he noticed something that took him by surprise.

“Hey… why are the police here?” Tommy asked.

Kara turned in the direction he was looking, as surprised to see the officers as Tommy, though her reaction to one of them caused her heart to beat faster and, for a moment, she forgot how to breathe.

“Those are the officers who stopped the Bratva and freed those girls.” Dig answered happily, seeing the blonde’s wide eyes and speechless stare. “I texted Diana that they were here, and that she should introduce herself.

“Come on, Kara. We should go say hi to John Blake.”

“Who is John Blake?” Tommy asked.

“He is the officer that was shot.” Dig answered, seeing Kara was still speechless. “Kara visited him in the hospital.”

Tommy looked at Kara whose face was pale. Dig had a sly grin on his face that Tommy didn’t understand but apparently something had happened during the hospital visit. The large man bent down and whispered something in Kara’s ear Tommy didn’t quite make out. He thought he heard Dig say ‘Speedo’ but was sure that wasn’t the case.

“Oh… right. You took that guy who made the vest to the hospital. Looks like Diana and Bruce are both making friends with them. We should go say hello at least.” Tommy suggested.

“Uh… I’ll be right back.” Kara said, then rushed off in search of Alex. She found her chatting up a lovely lady and politely pulled her away by the arm towards a corner where they couldn’t be seen.

“Where is Babs?”

“Off flirting.” Alex said as if it should be obvious.

“With who?”

“With everyone. This is Babs we are talking about. What’s wrong?” Alex asked, knowing her friend well enough to recognize that something was.

“Give me your flask.” Kara told her. Alex and Barbara always carried a flask to these events, preferring hard whiskey to the more elegant drinks usually served.

Alex looked around and pulled the small container from her bag. Kara took a large swig then began coughing, holding her chest.

“You know the rules. If you can’t hold it down, don’t drink it.” Alex chided her, rubbing Kara’s back while looking around to ensure Diana wasn’t watching them. It was something they had done often over the years. Make sure Diana couldn’t see them and let Kara get drunk off one swig because she was such a lightweight.

Once Kara was settled, Alex asked, “Do you want to tell me what’s wrong? Did Tommy ask you to move into his attic or buy a puppy together?”

Kara shook her head. “Nothing is wrong. I just needed to relax… I think I love Tommy.”

“Okay…? And…?”

“See that guy in the police formal talking to Bruce and Diana?” Kara whispered.

Alex peeked around the potted plant they were standing behind. “I suppose since you are hiding from him, you think he is hot?”

“How did you know?” Kara almost squeaked.

“Lucky guess.” Alex replied, her open expression encouraging her friend to continue.

“I saw him a few days ago without a shirt on, forgot how to speak like a normal adult and have been having very bad thoughts about him ever since. Very… bad… thoughts.” Kara admitted quietly.

“Very bad thoughts? Or very good, bad thoughts?” Alex asked knowingly.

“The second kind.” Kara confirmed. “Very good, bad thoughts and don’t get me started on the dream I had. Handcuffs were involved.”

Alex chuckled, smiling at her flustered friend. “It’s okay to be attracted to other guys, Kara.”

“No, it isn’t! I’m in a relationship! Like a real one where we talk about hopes and dreams and stuff… although I’m beginning to think our outlooks on the future are very different. You know he asked about… never mind, we can talk about that later.”

Alex shook her head. “You have so much to learn but now is not the time to teach you. Pull yourself together, go say hi, introduce Tommy and say as little as possible. Diana is there so do what you usually do and let her do the talking. You want me to come with?”

Kara shook her head, annoyed. “I don’t always let Diana do the talking. If I have something to say, then I say it.”

“Wow… this guy really has you tied in knots.” Alex said, her eyes wide, holding her hands up apologetically. “You’ve known me long enough to know I was picking on you.

“You spoke confidently at a press conference in front of the world, Kara. I have faith that you can hold it together in front of a hot guy, who gives you very good, bad dreams involving handcuffs, while your boyfriend is standing next to you. You can do this.”

“I can do this.” Kara repeated, psyching herself up.

“Yes, you can. Now go be polite so I can resume my conversation with the lovely lady that has been scoping me out since I walked in. You’re not the only one who has very good, bad thoughts.” Alex told her with an encouraging smile and a wink.

Kara saw Tommy and Dig had joined Bruce and Diana in greeting John Blake. His fellow officers were walking off in the direction of the bar.

“Kara, John was just telling us about your visit.” Tommy told her as she came up beside him.

“Kara mentioned you.” Blake said casually. “I’m glad I got the chance to meet you.”

Tommy was a bit relieved that Kara had spoken of him at the hospital but also wondered why she would. Changing the subject, he asked, “I understand you were shot in the back?”

John nodded. “Yeah, the guy jumped me from behind and fired from about three feet away. I was able to roll over on the ground and take him out with a kick. I’d like to credit my skills, but the truth is I got very lucky… that vest saved my life.

“It was a hell of a lot better than the last time I got shot though. I took a bullet to the leg in Yemen and had to be carried to safety. Luckily, it missed the bone and just tore the muscle.” He told the group.

“Tommy, John was a Marine… Force Recon, is that right, John?” Diana asked. At his confirming nod, Diana continued her praise of the newest member of Gotham’s Finest. “He has already been awarded the Navy Cross. Then on his first night with Gotham P.D., he risks his life to save all those girls. You are a true hero, John. I think we can all agree on that.”

Tommy nodded and planted a tight smile on his face. “Yep, glad there are guys like you keeping us regular joes safe.”

“It’s good to see you again, Kara.” John said, smiling. “I recall saying how I doubted I would. That’s a really nice dress. You and your sister are kind of stealing the show from all these other fancy dressed people.”

Kara said nothing, not sure what to say. She had a thousand thoughts going through her head but instead of responding, she kept a large smile planted on her face and her mouth closed.

“Kara?” Diana prodded, noting that Dig was right… Kara turned into a mess around this man.

The older sister couldn’t blame her. Blake was very handsome, and Kara never did well speaking to guys she had crushes on. Tommy had been the only exception to Diana’s knowledge which was a telling sign in itself. Despite Tommy’s recent activities and maturation, the more she found out about John Blake, the more impressed Diana was and that was not something that happened often.

Kara realized she should say something when Diana and Tommy were both staring at her, and she was staring at Blake.

“I like your uniform… I mean it’s nice to see me… you again.” She blurted out.

Blake grinned self-consciously and looked down at his suit. “When Commissioner Gordon told us we were invited, some of us didn’t have suits. I’ll be honest, I’ve never owned a suit in my life. The Commissioner recommended we all wear our dress blues.

“You guys throw a hell of a party. I’ve only read about things like this. Thank you for inviting us, Miss Wayne.”

“You are welcome. This is a way for me to personally thank you and your fellow officers for your good work and service to our city, John.” Diana told him sincerely. “When will you be able to return to work?”

“I’m back now but stuck at a desk until the shooting is cleared. It’s typical with officer involved shootings, especially fatalities.” John answered. “My captain says it will be cleared as a clean shoot and I should be back on the beat soon. I’ve never spent time at a desk and I’m finding it isn’t really my thing.”

Tommy perked up at that. He had known Blake was shot but had no idea he had killed someone. “You killed one of the guys?”

“Killed two and wounded a third.” Diana clarified. “You certainly know how to perform under pressure, don’t you, Officer Blake?”

“I’ve had experience with… stressful situations. The guys I was with were amazing. We had never worked together before that night, but we became a solid unit very quickly. It was a real team effort.”

“Yeah, you definitely sound good under pressure.” Tommy agreed grudgingly. Something about John Blake was irritating him.

As he looked between Blake, Kara and Diana, he suddenly realized what it was.

When he had started his pursuit of Kara, he asked himself what kind of guy could impress Diana Wayne. A man like John Blake was the answer. Tommy wasn’t crazy about the way this guy was looking at Kara either but couldn’t really blame him. Kara was stunning tonight, more so than usual.

Kara, however, seemed to have lost the ability to hold a conversation and was doing everything she could not to look at the guy and failing miserably. Her actions were so out-of-character to the Kara he knew, he didn’t know what to make of it.

“Kara, do you ever come to the precincts?” Blake asked. “The officers think the world of you. Quite a few were jealous I got to meet you. You should stop by sometime.”

“Oh! Really? That would be… okay but… you see… how have you been feeling? Everything okay? Has the bruising on your back gone away?”

Blake shook his head. “Still a bit yellowish with spots of purple but getting better every day.”

“Good! That’s… good. I mean it’s great.”

Blake offered his hand to Kara. “I’m not great at dancing but if it would be okay with your escort, do you think I might steal one?”

Kara looked between Tommy and Blake and nearly panicked, realizing she would have to answer. Tommy made the choice easy when he said he would in no way be offended. Besides, it was okay to dance with other guys despite having a boyfriend. She had fantasized about this guy for days, so what was the harm in one dance?

“Of course, John.” She replied, pleased that her voice didn’t break.

Blake took her hand and led her to the dancefloor. He wasn’t sure exactly what to do, so Kara helped him position his hands and told him to follow her lead, feeling a bit more comfortable since he was out of his element, and she knew what she was doing.

He picked it up quickly though.

“Kara, I asked you out here for a reason. I have a question and didn’t want to pressure you in front of others to answer. Would you mind?” John asked.

Kara felt sweat begin to bead on her forehead. “Of course not. Ask me anything.”

“Are you scared of me? Have I done something to make you nervous round me? Is it because I killed those two guys?” Blake asked, the concern evident in his expression.

Whatever Kara had been expecting, it wasn’t that. “Scared of you?”

The man looked a bit sheepish. “I just noticed you tend to act… nervous around me. I know some people aren’t comfortable around other people who have done… the things I have done. I just don’t want you to be uncomfortable around me.

“What you did, bringing your employee to meet the cop his vest saved, that’s something I bet no boss in the world would ever consider doing.

“You are a good person and I know we don’t run in the same circles but if we do meet up again, I don’t want you to be uncomfortable. Is there something I can do?”

Kara opened her mouth but remained silent, not sure what to say. Finally, she closed her eyes and decided to concede to at least part of the truth.

“I’m not scared of you, and I don’t care that you have killed people. You do make me nervous but not because of that.” She admitted.

“Why then?”

“I wish… It’s not you… I get nervous around new people sometimes.” She said quietly. “Your steps are getting better. You are a natural dancer, Officer Blake.”

While the two twirled around the dance floor, Tommy watched from the sideline, doing his best to not be jealous. General Samuel Lane did not help when he suddenly appeared next to Merlyn and clapped him hard on the shoulder.

“They look good together, don’t they?” the general asked Tommy.

“Excuse me?” Tommy had never had the opportunity or desire to speak to Lane, so he wasn’t sure why the man had picked now.

“I meant Kara and John Blake. Just saying they seem like good partners… on the dance floor. Diana asked me to look into all the officers before she invited them.

“Blake’s a good man. Grew up in some rough neighborhoods in Gotham, an orphan for most of his childhood. Really grew up and made something of himself. I contacted his CO and the man told me Blake was one of the bravest guys who ever served under him… tough as nails, honorable, a real hero. Now he is back in Gotham, already making a name for himself in his hometown.

“That’s the kind of guy that helps make a city great. A guy who never had anything handed to him, had to work his whole life and still puts others before himself. I’m glad they had the chance to meet. I mean I’m glad you both had a chance to meet him, of course.

“Take care, Merlyn.”

Lane walked off and Tommy rubbed his forehead, realizing now why he never had a desire to speak to the man. He got the message loud and clear. It couldn’t have been more obvious if Lane had bluntly told him he wasn’t good enough for Kara.

He was aware of what those outside the Wayne family thought of his and Kara’s relationship. His relationship with Diana had grown, and he even considered her a friend.

Those outside of the family often asked what the hell the Princess of Gotham City was doing with Star City’s notorious son. The Gotham Gazette had even written an article about them, subtly asking the same thing without outright saying it. While the publicity was great for the store, it wasn’t so great for Tommy’s ego.

Soon the song was over, and Kara walked over to Tommy. She noticed immediately that something was not right.

“What’s wrong?”

“Why do you think something is wrong?”

“I saw Sam Lane standing by you. What did he say?”

Tommy shook his head. “He was just saying hello.”

“Don’t lie to me, Tommy. He said something that is bothering you. Tell me what he said.” Kara insisted.

Tommy kissed her gently and put on his best charming smile. “Nothing important other than how beautiful you look tonight. I already knew that. You think you have a dance left for me?”

Kara smiled and kissed his cheek. “I have the rest of the night for you.”

While Kara danced, John Blake rejoined Diana and Bruce. Bruce had been silent this entire time, assessing Blake.

“Bruce, I see multiple people surrounding Sam and I doubt Silver will hold them off for long.” Diana pointed out. “I need to rescue her.

“It has been a pleasure meeting you, John. If you ever need anything don’t hesitate to ask. Gotham’s wellbeing is very important to me, and I would do anything to help its protectors.”

“Thank you, Miss Wayne. Congrats on the upcoming wedding. The boys were telling me you are getting married to an Air Force pilot. You could do better, but you could do worse.” Blake said cheekily, surprisingly at ease with the powerful CEO.

Diana laughed, enjoying his lack of pretenses. This was a man who would be comfortable in any situation and around any crowd, not intimidated in the least. That was a quality Steve had and one she greatly admired.

“I’ll send him your way and let you tell him that. I should probably save him as well. I believe he has danced with every woman over seventy at this party tonight. His feet could use a break.” She remarked. “Consider yourself invited to the wedding and please, call me Diana. I see great things in your future, John Blake. Just try to avoid getting shot again so you have one, okay?”

Blake assured her he would do his best and Diana walked off leaving Bruce alone with police officer. Bruce raised his glass in farewell and turned away before the man’s next words stopped him cold.

“I told you… it was the look in your eyes.” Blake said quietly. “I guess I know what this city took from you now.”

Bruce turned around slowly.

“You left one of your sharp throwing blades, the one that saved me from being shot in the head. I took it before anyone could grab it. I like it so your aren’t getting it back.” Blake told him, still keeping his voice low. “Don’t worry, your secret is safe. I told you, if you ever need me, let me know. I understand better than you think. Sometimes there isn’t a black and white. The system doesn’t always work. You are operating in the grey and that’s where someone like you is needed.

“It was good to meet you, Bruce… and thanks.”

Rather than denying or saying he had no idea what he was talking about, Bruce simply nodded at the man and left, deciding not to insult his intelligence. He would be discussing this with Gordon but tonight was not the time.

Once Diana rescued Samantha from multiple well-wishers, she was discretely pointing out to Sam those who were important to Wayne Enterprises and those who only thought they were.

Diana heard someone calling her name and she turned to see Harvey had arrived. He wasn’t alone either. A blonde Diana had never met was with him.

“Harvey.” Diana greeted him. “I was worried you wouldn’t make it. Who is your date tonight?”

“Sorry we were late. I was finishing some briefs before Monday morning, and it isn’t easy to talk Em away from her lab.” Harvey explained, then looked slightly confused. “Don’t you two know each other?”

The blonde shook her head. “We haven’t had the pleasure yet. I’m Doctor Emily Parlow.”

“You work for Kara.” Diana recognized. “I’ve been meaning to meet you, but our paths don’t seem to cross. I make it a point to know everyone Kara works with daily. I know she spends a lot of time with you.

“Have you been purposely avoiding me, Dr. Parlow? I’m not as bad as the rumors say, I assure you. I don’t even breathe fire.”

Though Diana’s tone was light, she was more than a bit serious. It wasn’t like her to not know someone Kara worked with closely. Admittedly, things had been hectic the past few months but for Parlow to have been there as long as she had, a part of her wondered if the doctor was avoiding her.

“Please, call me Emily. I have heard nothing but praise for you and Kara.” Parlow said smoothly, not missing a beat. Turning to Sam, she said, “Miss Arias, I am new as well. It will be a relief to not be the new kid anymore.”

Kara thought highly of this woman, so Diana let it go. Surely if she wanted to avoid Diana, she never would have come to work at Wayne Enterprises. Diana wasn’t picking up any negative energy from her, but something niggled at the back of her mind. She would be watching Parlow more closely. Anyone involved with Kara meant they were involved with Diana, whether they wanted to be or not.

The rest of the night went well. Kara, Tommy, Alex and Babs had snuck off to their own corners, Diana had introduced Sam to so many people her head was spinning. Sam had danced with Bruce only once and instantly regretted it, wondering what the rumor mill would be talking about tomorrow. Gotham City may have had nine million people but for those in this ballroom tonight, it was a small town.

The party ended well after midnight. Bruce drove home with multiple things on his mind, from Rachel and Arkham, to John Blake figuring his secret out so easily to Selina Kyle possibly returning to Gotham.

He was definitely not suiting up tonight, he just wanted to sleep. The man had been going non-stop the past week and needed a night off.

He walked into the foyer and saw movement out of the corner of his eye. Before he could register what it was, he instinctively caught a katana that was suddenly tossed his way.

The lights came on and in front of him was a thin, Asian woman dressed in a skintight, black outfit with a shiny katana in her hand.

“I suppose since you have given me a weapon, you wish to fight. Do we know each other?” he asked.

“My name is Tatsu. I know you, Bruce Wayne, Talia’s lover. She stole a sword that belonged to me. I have been tracking her ever since. I know she brought it to Gotham, and I know she left it with you because I can feel it nearby. My quarrel is not with you, but I will not be leaving without it, even if it means I must kill you.

“Surrender the Soultaker or prepare to defend yourself.”

Bruce rubbed his forehead. Talia told him she had found it years ago… so of course, she had stolen it.

“The sword you seek is very powerful. Perhaps we should discuss your claim before I hand it over to someone I don’t know?” Bruce offered. “There is no need for violence.”

“You were offered a chance. Your death will send Talia al Ghul a message, one she shall remember for the remainder of her life.” The woman said, settling back into a combat stance.

Sighing, he was considering his options when another voice spoke up in the doorway behind him.

“Before you kill him, I’m interested in hearing more about this Talia and what he has been doing for the past six years.” The amusement in his twin’s tone was unmistakable. “Bruce, is this an ex as well? It would be so wonderful if it were.”

“Damn it.” Bruce whispered. “Diana, this really isn’t a good time. What are you doing here?”

“I thought I would stop by for after party drinks.” She replied, sauntering through the door to stand beside him. “Do you need assistance?”

Bruce raised the katana. “No, I’ve got this. Help yourself to the bourbon but leave my Scotch alone. I’ll be a minute.”