The urgency of Alfred Pennyworth’s message was genuine: Bruce had become a hermit. Batman had once again begun acting unpredictably, brutally and violently. So once more, "Dick" Grayson, in his guise of Nightwing, had left Titan Tower in New York zooming down the road on his motorcycle to Gotham City.

Things had been quiet in Blüdhaven for a while now, so "detective Grayson" was on Sabbatical and Nightwing had rejoined the Titans. He sped down the highway, with more than a feeling of déjà vu. The last time Alfred had alerted him like this, Batman had grown careless, nearly getting the both of them killed in a trap set by Two-Face. It was also the beginning of Tim Drake as the new Robin, and with the return of Robin as a sidekick, Batman had taken control of his life once again. "Let’s hope we get another positive outcome," he thought drearily.

After Alfred’s call, Dick had contacted Superman at the Watchtower. Superman tried his best to look optimistic, but the worry showed on his face. Dick mulled over the information in his mind, jaws clenched nearing that special shortcut few people knew: the entrance to the Bat-Cave.

Superman had told him Batman had been spending less and less time at the Watchtower, with the Justice League.

Superman had echoed Alfred’s concerns: "To the best of my knowledge, it seems that he and Wonder Woman had a falling out – you could tell they’d been making an effort to keep things civil, but you could also tell something was wrong. Then Batman plain dropped out of sight – be it not for Alfred telling us he was back in Gotham, we would have all feared he’d been killed."

Superman had added, eyebrows raised: "And you know Batman as well as I do, perhaps even better: too stubborn and too proud to confide, and Wonder Woman is equally stubborn. Trying to talk to her got me nowhere."

"Martian Manhunter told me he could sense something wasn’t right between Batman and Wonder Woman, but wouldn’t read their minds out of respect for their privacy. I tried talking to Batman privately about it, but he gave me his patented stare and plain told me to mind my business. Hardly the first time he’s given me the brush off in the many years I’ve known him, but this time was different: he seemed genuinely hurt, letting his ego get in the way. You’re his son, he’ll talk to you." Superman concluded.

"He’ll talk to you…" ‘I hope you’re right Superman old pal ‘. Nightwing thought. If Batman is trying to lose himself in his work again, this is bad news. Entering the Bat-Cave, memories of old, when he used to be Robin flooded him. He couldn’t repress a smile. Parking his motorcycle, he theorised "Obviously, something happened between Batman and Wonder Woman."

"I’ll bet they had feelings for each other. Bruce must have given her the usual excuses and now she’s upset with him for rejecting her… sounds like typical Bruce" he reasoned. Nightwing noticed only the emergency lights were on in the Bat-Cave, instead of the usual high-powered high-pressure Sodium lights that kept the Bat-Cave well lit …

"Way to pack on the gloom Daddy-O! Nightwing thought. Batman’s voice snapped him out of his reverie.

"Nightwing I presume?" Batman’s was sitting in front of the Bat-Computer, not even bothering to turn around, cowl off. He had seen Nightwing enter from the infrared monitoring system.

"Anybody here order a bar of soap?" Dick answered. Indeed, Bruce Wayne - the man behind Batman - smelled like he hadn’t showered in several weeks. He also looked as if he hadn’t slept in days.

Bruce stretched and sighed. "All of those years of College and that’s the best you can come up with? Then again here’s a guy who could have become a Doctor or a Scientist … ended up being a Cop." Bruce enjoyed teasing Dick about this.

Dick scowled, and removed his Nightwing mask. "Only to fight corruption in the Blüdhaven Police, as you well know Bruce: you’re the one who sent me there to investigate in the first place. This isn’t about me. You have a bunch a people who care about you very worried. Alfred, me, Clark, the entire Justice League…" Dick didn’t dare mention Wonder Woman, not yet.

Bruce finally turned to face him, red-eyed and scruffy-faced, flashing his usual dismissive smirk.

"Drop the intervention kid, if Kent put you up to this, forget it. Nobody needs to be concerned: I’m doing what I do best: taking care of Gotham. Or at least I would if some people would quit interrupting me." He said.

Bruce hoped Dick would give up, but knew he couldn’t deter him. He didn’t dare mention Wonder Woman either.

Dick rolled his eyes, looking exasperated; the tone of his voice surprised even himself: "What exactly is it you do best Bruce? Remind me? Taking care of Gotham City or acting like a pompous jackass, putting your own life at risk, worrying the people who care for you, only to throw it back in their faces when they show you concern? "

Bruce’s expression hardened, hoping his silence would end this conversation, but no such luck.

They stared each other down, student-facing teacher, son standing up to father.

Dick shook his head, lowering his voice. "Come on Bruce, this is me, Dick Grayson, the kid you personally trained. The kid you adopted, I think we can drop the pretence. You can try to avoid the issue, perhaps even convince yourself everything’s all right, but you’re not fooling anybody, especially not me." Dick continued "You trained me well, perhaps too well."

Bruce still remained silent.

"Go for broke and hope he opens up" Dick thought.

"This is about Diana and you, isn’t it?" Dick said, hoping that using Wonder Woman’s real name would shake Bruce up.

He’d hit a nerve: Bruce looked livid. "What about Diana and me?"

With or without the mask, Bruce could still stare a hole right through you. But Dick knew that facial expression very well; he was one of the few who could see right through it. And hold the stare without flinching.

"You could tell me there’s nothing between the two of you, only I wouldn’t buy that, and honestly, neither would Alfred, or Superman for that matter." Dick paused, then added ‘And neither would Diana’.

Bruce’s face had reverted to the stone cold Bat-stare. Dick had hit an open wound Bruce wanted left alone. Bruce knew Dick too well to think he’d ever back off. Trained him too well indeed. He thought.

Bruce sighed and finally said; "It’s … complicated."

"Any more complicated than Clark and Lois?" Dick said.

Bruce opened his mouth to say something, but could think of no witty repartee. Dick was right. Indeed Clark Kent, known to the world as Superman, and Lois Lane had got married, and it was working out well for them.

Agreed, Lois needed to keep an emergency League communicator on her at all times for her own protection: Superman has many foes. One press of a button would have Superman and a team of Justice Leaguers flying to the rescue in no time. And they had a permanent residence in a High Security building owned by Wayne Enterprises. Superman joined Lois there during his off-times from the League.

"Okay then, cards on table." Bruce said dryly. "If you must know, yes I do love Diana, dearly. But you know as well as I do that in our line of work, a relationship isn’t the best idea. I have plenty of enemies. People close to me have tendency to get hurt, or killed: Jason and Barbara are perfect examples; you yourself nearly got yourself killed under my tutelage more than once." Bruce said with an expression of deep pain on his face.

Dick understood the pain Bruce felt over Jason Todd – the second Robin’s death. He also understood how Bruce felt responsible for Barbara – the first Batgirl- after she became wheelchair bound, all courtesy of the Joker. Bruce felt he’d let Barbara and her father-Commissioner Gordon- down.

The very mention of Barbara immediately stirred mixed emotions in Dick: she was after all an early crush. During Starfire’s exile, Barbara had after all rejected him as anything more than a friend since she had lost use of her legs.

And yes, as a rookie Robin, he had been beaten within an inch of his life few times …

"But only when I strayed away from Batman … this isn’t about me. He’s talking, let’s keep it up." Dick thought.

"Go on Bruce, reality check! Jason and Barbara had no special powers. Neither do I. We all knew the risks before joining the fight against crime. We’re talking about Wonder Woman, the woman who rivals Superman in strength, and who pulled your bacon out of the fire more times than you can count, don’t you dare deny it. I think she is quite capable of handling herself!" Dick said.

Bruce stared at the floor. The façade was tumbling down; in fact, Dick had never seen his old mentor look so vulnerable as he did this very moment.

"Of course, Dick’s right," Bruce thought. "Diana could handle the Joker, Penguin, Scarecrow and Bane with an arm tied behind her back. And not even break a sweat.’ Bruce was shaking his head. How obtuse could he be?

He loved her, wanted her in his life, but every nerve in his body kept pulling him away.

"Why?" He wondered. "The one lover, whom I can truly trust with my life …" Bruce clenched his fists, frustrated with himself.

Seeing Bruce’s confusion, Dick pressed on: "What is it Bruce? Come on, Dad, spit it out."

Bruce had a hard time adjusting to Dick calling him "Dad".

Finally, the words came out, a mixture of frustration and pain:

"Damn it! She’s already lived hundreds of years and still looks like a 20 year-old girl. She’s immortal … when I’m an old man – if I live that long – she’ll still look 20 and be stuck with a wrinkled old relic. I can’t put her through that … and honestly, I don’t think I could stand losing her to a younger man, it’d kill me. It’s just easier just to keep our distances." Bruce said, panting.

In the shadows of the Bat-Cave, a feminine presence was paying close attention. Alfred had ushered her in discreetly. She had heard pretty much all of the conversation, when she decided to speak up. Her voice, coming out of nowhere, startled both Batman and Nightwing.

"Don’t I get a say in this Bruce?" She said.

Mentor and pupil had gasped, looking in the direction the voice came from. Batman shot an annoyed look at Nightwing.

"DICK!" he said, sounding aggravated.

Gape mouthed, Dick replied: "Don’t look at me Bruce, I came here alone!"

The woman came out of the shadows. Diana of Themyscira – Wonder Woman – had stepped into the light. She was wearing her ceremonial silk cape draped across her shoulders.

"He tells the truth, Bruce. Alfred paged me at the Watchtower, asking me to come right away … I was worried something had happened to you, so I rushed here." She said.

Dick proceeded to put his mask back on stifling a giggle, not noticing he was pulling it on inside out, not paying attention. Alfred had orchestrated the whole thing, cunning old devil!

Bruce was now looking at Diana.

"How much have you heard? " His tone was more tired and resigned than embarrassed or annoyed.

"Everything from "I do love Diana". She said, arms folded, with a hint of a smirk on her lips. Her tone was cool, but her expression was that of deep concern, the kind of concern that comes from being deeply in love.

Bruce could feel his heart sink in.

"I think I should let the two of you talk" Dick said.

"Wait Dick, before you go" Diana said, putting a hand on his shoulder. If she had noticed Nightwing’s inverted mask, she did not let on

.

"I have been told Starfire has returned to Earth, to the Titans; and that she is a free woman again, is that true? " she asked.

Dick tensed up briefly. After all, Bruce’s disapproval was one of the reasons their relationship had failed. Then again, Trigon wrecking his Marriage ceremony to Starfire by possessing Raven’s body didn’t exactly help matters either.

Ditto with Starfire’s subsequent decision to get married to Karras in order to prevent a Civil War on Tamaran, her home planet.

"Yes, it is true". He said resignedly. Now he felt on the spot.

"Do you still love her?" Diana asked.

Dick drew in a deep breath, avoiding Bruce’s look. Mixed emotions back on full gear.

"Yes I do," he said, feeling his heart shatter.

"Then go to her. Why do you think Barbara wouldn’t go any further with you than the ‘good friends’ stage?" She asked. "It is plain to see that you are still in love with Starfire. Barbara could see this, and knew your heart would never truly be hers. Starfire has returned to you. This is not a perfect world we live in. We live violent lives. Finding someone to love can be difficult for normal people. For people like us, it can be nearly impossible." she looked at Bruce on that last comment.

"Go to her Nightwing, don’t let that second chance at happiness pass you by. If she still has feelings for you, don’t be stubborn like Bruce, tell her how you feel." She said. Bruce felt like saying something in his defence, but elected to remain quiet.

Dick nodded, smiled and turned to go. "Now you two behave yourselves you hear? When the two of you argue it gives everybody else involved blood pressure problems!" He said, and took his leave.

Diana turned to Bruce "And now young man" she said, gently drawing him closer by the shoulders "We have a lot of talking to do. But know this right now, I love you Bruce Wayne. Truly and unconditionally." Diana looked deep into his eyes to emphasise her point.

Bruce smiled and leaned over to kiss her, she held him at arm’s length, with a teasing grin.

"But first, Mr. Wayne, you need a shower!" she said, wrinkling her nose.

"Right away, Princess!" Bruce said, smiling

.

"And then, I want you to get some rest. Alfred told me you have been burning the candle by both ends." She said, dryly, like a mother scolding her child.

"No arguments here, but the Gotham City patrols…" Bruce said.

"Shower and then to bed young man!" She said, seemingly enjoying this, teasing grin still present on her pretty face. "I’ll handle your patrols today. Don’t worry."

She added in a soft voice, " I’ll be here when you wake up." The sound of her voice melted him over.

"Yes Ma’am!" He said.

They left the Bat-Cave to Wayne Manor together on this, her arm slung around his shoulders. Bruce felt like he was seeing the Manor for the first time in years.

Things were looking up after all.

Bruce stepped out of the shower feeling refreshed. He had shaved, brushed his teeth and even dabbed on some cologne. Diana was waiting for him, sitting on the edge of the bed, arms folded, still looking quite concerned. He had confessed his love to her, and she had confessed hers to him, that was good. But he could be so driven, so stubborn…

«Pray Hera he does listen to me and rest» she thought.

She walked up to him and put her arms around his waist, holding him close.

«Now Bruce, promise me you’ll get some sleep.» She said.

« I will rest» he replied.

«Promise me!» She said, more insistently. He could feel her arms squeezing him tighter; her expression was pleading. She did not want him to play on words and to «rest» by sitting in front of the Bat-Computer again.

«I promise» he replied resignedly, returning her hug.

She smiled. «Then, to bed with you!» She said.

They kissed. She stood by him as he got to bed and kissed him again.

«Sleep well my love» she said in a soft whisper.

Bruce smiled sheepishly: « My love … I like that!» He said with a sigh.

She pulled the shades down and turned to him, still whispering "Ill be back before you know it!"

She then left the bedroom, closing the door behind her, but stood there for a moment.

Using her heightened sense of hearing, she listened. Bruce’s breathing was slowing down, so was his heart rate. He was feeling asleep. It was about 4:30 in the after-noon, after too many sleepless nights.

She smiled but … he is Batman. He has played possum before, not only with criminals, but also with her, during their Watchtower sparring sessions. He could act as if she had knocked him unconscious only to roll her on her back when he felt she was off balance.

"Tricky, and too smart for your own good Bruce Wayne, so help me, you will sleep, if I have to tie you down with my Golden Lasso to keep you still." She thought, with a mix of concern and irritation, as she went looking for Alfred.

Alfred was in the kitchen, enjoying one of the precious few breaks he could muster in recent weeks, reading the news paper.

"Princess Diana’s presence brings a sense of joy and serenity to Wayne Manor, something that has been missing for far too long since Dr. Wayne and Mrs Wayne passed on." Alfred thought, sadly.

He stood up when he saw her: «Miss Diana, how is Master Bruce?»

«Resting.» she replied, keeping her voice down.

Alfred looked relieved.

«But do me a favour Alfred?» she said, her concerned expression resurfacing.

«Of course.» he said.

«Make sure he stays in bed, barricade the study if you have to.» She said.

Alfred looked confused: «The study Madam? Not the bedroom?»

She smirked, «Yes Alfred, the secret entrance to the Bat-cave. Make sure he can’t get in there until he’s got at least 10 hours of sleep. He might hear you trying to barricade the bedroom door!» She explained.

Alfred smiled knowingly

.

«It will be a pleasure Miss,» he said.

«I have a few urgent errands to run, Alfred. I should be back before he wakes up, but if I’m not back yet, tell him I will be back. We have more talking to do.» Diana said.

Alfred bowed his head respectfully: «Very well Miss, and, thank you.» he said.

«No Alfred, thank you: this may be the biggest favour you’ve ever done for either Bruce or me». She said.

Stepping out of Wayne Manor, she walked to her Invisible Jet. ‘The best thing about it being invisible is that I can park it anywhere … well, almost anywhere" she thought with a grin. She activated her communicator

.

«Wonder Woman to the Watchtower, do you read me J’onn?» She said.

« Watchtower here, how is he Diana?» The familiar voice of Martian Manhunter answered.

"Right to the point as always. Damn that Martian’s telepathy!" she thought.

Instead, she said, «He’s better, but we still have some issues to work out. I need to call in a favour J’onn.»

« Ask away, Diana.» he replied, though he already knew what she was up to.

«I promised Bruce I’d cover his Gotham patrols for today. Robin’s School schedule is booked too solid for me to ask his help and I have urgent errands to run, could you…»

Oh yes, he already knew. Before she could finish her query, he said, « Please hold Diana, I’ll check the roster.»

A few seconds later, he came back «Green Arrow and Black Canary are available and itching for some action. I shall dispatch them to Gotham City right away.» he said.

Relieved, she replied: «Thanks J’onn, I appreciate it. Wonder Woman out.»

To himself, J’onn murmured: «May the fortunes smile upon you both. You both deserve this. Losing loved once twice in my life I can understand solitude.»

Diana’s thoughts were strong. It was hard for J’onn’s telepathic mind to filter them out. He hoped she would be successful.

Smiling, Diana took off. «And now, to call in another favour.» she thought. «I’m not going to lose you Bruce Wayne, not like I did Steve Trevor.»

Bruce had indeed fallen asleep. These recent weeks had drained him, both physically and mentally. Having Diana back in his life, for better or worse, filled him with hope. He began to dream. First he was walking in a dark alley, dreary and damp, he was 8 years old again. That sound, that all too familiar sound of bats shrieking was echoing in the air.

As it often happens in dreams, the scenery morphed. The alley became a living room, a familiar living room. The shriek of bats still echoing endlessly with the morphing scenery.

A familiar voice finally cut through the turmoil.

«Son, it’s good to see you again.» Even in a dream state, that voice moved him deep from within.

«Dad? Mom?» The blurry sight of Thomas and Martha Wayne had joined him in the dream living room.

«We are very proud of you Bruce. You have saved many souls, helped many people, turned many lives around … you have done very well son». Thomas Wayne said.

«But every parent wants to see his child happy Bruce. The path you have chosen would have ultimately destroyed you; you had become so reckless. You deserve better my son, than a life of solitude. You have done so much good around you, you deserve much better than to grow old, lonely and bitter.» Martha Wayne said.

.

That did it. He felt like crying now. Thomas Wayne’ s voice came back, soothing.

«The Amazon, son. Don’t shut her out. Let her in. Trust her.» He said.

«But I do trust her, with my life.» Bruce wanted to say. No sound came out of his mouth.

Both Thomas and Martha Wayne’ s voices now blended: «You can still make a difference son: save lives, fight crime, but not at the expense of your own life, Bruce. Let Diana in. Don’t shut her out.»

This all looked too real. He had lived through some rather ghoulish dreamscapes before, cooked up by either the Mad Hatter or the Scarecrow. He could reason his way out of those with relative ease. Somehow, this was cutting him deeper than anything they had ever done to him as Batman.

He wanted to tell his parents not to go, tell them how much he was in love with Diana, and how frightened he was of losing her, but nothing came out.

« Don’t shut her out» the voices of Thomas and Martha Wayne echoed once more.

He woke up in a gasp, heart racing. As he fully awakened, he recognised the familiar surroundings of his bedroom. He drew in a deep breath to steady his heart.

«Come on Bruce, get a grip. It was only a dream.» He mumbled. The voices of his parents still resonated in his head. «Only a dream» he repeated.

As if on cue, Diana walked in the room. «Bruce? I thought I heard something. Are you all right?» she said.

The sound of her voice comforted him at once. Bruce sat up.

«Just an upsetting dream Princess, bitter memories.» He said.

She opened the blinds. It seemed to be morning. He had completely lost any concept of time. He did need the sleep, badly. He looked at her. She had just taken a bath, her jet-black hair was wet and she was wearing one of his bathrobes.

«Everything looks good on her,» he thought, admiringly.

«Are you hungry?» She asked.

«Not really … not yet anyway.» he said.

«Shall we have our talk then?» she asked. Bruce nodded.

She sat in bed next to him.

«How long have I been sleeping?» He asked with a curious frown.

She smiled sweetly and said «18 hours give or take. I’m very proud of you: you kept your promise to me. You stayed in bed and got some sleep.»

Bruce confessed: «In the past few weeks, the awkward silence between us was driving me mad. My own fault for turning you away." He said, shaking his head.

"But my pride wouldn’t let me face up to it. I became so busy trying not to think about us, about how much I missed you, that I just immersed myself in work … a bad habit of mine. As a result I became quite drained. And disoriented.» he said, looking down.

She touched his face tenderly, and said «My feminine pride is flattered, but if you ever do that again, I will kick- your- butt!»

In a gesture that surprised her, he laid down across the bed, resting his head on her lap.

«Your version of the psychiatrist’s couch?» She said with a laugh.

«Something like that.» he said. She stroked his hair.

«Bruce, you know me better than I know myself. I have always felt at a disadvantage with you, both as Batman and as Bruce Wayne. You have been the most supportive of me when I was exiled from Themyscira: you comforted me and listened to me. Next thing we knew, we had become secret lovers. You always seemed to anticipate my every need. I, on the other hand, barely know anything of you except what you agreed to share. Please Bruce, talk to Me.» her eyes were pleading.

The voices of his parents still resonated in his head: ‘let her in Bruce’.

And let her in he did. He told her everything. Diana listened with a mixture of awe, sadness and pity to the story of the man she loved.

As he spoke, she remembered his words, which had hurt her feelings at the time, after they had defeated child Sorcerer Mordred.

‘I haven’t been a kid since I was 8 years old’. He had said.

He hadn’t been kidding. "No wonder he fears growing attached to anyone: he lost his parents as a child, Jason Todd as an adult, nearly saw Dick killed and feels responsible for the original Batgirl becoming a paraplegic … he feels like a bad luck charm to the people around him. My poor tortured Bruce.» she thought.

As he spoke, Bruce would pause for a few seconds, as if to catch his breath. She would stroke his hair some more and he would continue. She could see in his face the traumatised child, the angry young man that was trained by Henri Ducard, and the stone cold Batman, all mixed into one. She had heard enough. She was certain of it now. He was worthy, truly worthy.

She gently lifted his head from her lap.

«Sit up!» she said, in a soft voice.

He complied, and she kissed him.

«Bruce, 18 hours ago, you told Dick you couldn’t bear to lose me to a younger man when you grew older. I too have a confession to make: I couldn’t bear to lose you either. Many years ago, I was in love with a man named Steve Trevor. I was young and foolish. I could have taken steps to keep him as my mate, but I waited, and waited.» She said, looking down.

Bruce held her hands. He could see how this was difficult and painful for her as well.

Diana looked sad at that moment, on the verge of tears. She gave his hands a gentle squeeze and continued.

«He, on the other hand, could no longer wait for me: he was not getting any younger. I was too blind to see the conflict I was putting him through. Thus, in the end, I lost him to another woman, who grew old with him, gave him a son. Bruce, when we first met, the last thing on my mind was to get involved with you and have my heart broken like that again. I tried very hard not to grow fond of you, but I did. Now here we are.» She paused and sighed.

She continued: «According to Themysciran tradition, when an Amazon wishes to take a mate, she is given the choice to either give up her powers…»

Bruce interjected: «Which I’d never let you do!»

She put a finger on his lips, quieting him. «… Or, she can put her man of choice to the test. If he is judged to be truly worthy of being the mate of an Amazon, he can be ‘initiated’»

He looked intrigued. "Diana if I have to perform the 12 tasks of Herakles to be your mate, I will start right now!" He said.

The sadness dissipated from her face.

"Dear Bruce, he does so love me! " she thought. She had feared his male ego would be an obstacle, but he was hearing her out.

«I have known you for a while now Bruce, and I have fought many battles at your side. You are truly worthy. You have proven yourself time and time again: as a crime fighter, as a humanitarian, as a teammate, as a friend and as a lover.» She lowered her eyes, pausing before her next sentence.

«You are ready for initiation. You no doubt know what ambrosia is?» She asked.

Bruce couldn’t resist «You’re obviously not referring to the dessert…»

She frowned at him, looking annoyed.

Bruce looked sheepish. «Ambrosia, the food of the gods. According to ancient mythology, any mortal who ate it gained great powers, became in fact a demigod.» he said.

Diana smiled.

«Very good! I can assure you however: it is no myth.» Still smiling, she pulled a small vile from the bathrobe’s pocket. She held it up to give Bruce a better look

«This is Ambrosia extract.» she continued, « The gift of Aphrodite. It will not give you super strength, or make you bullet proof, or give you power of flight. What it will do, however, is give you the same life span as mine. Like me, you will age very, very slowly. And like me, you will heal from injury much quicker. I love you Bruce. I don’t want to repeat the same mistake I’ve made and lose you too.»

Bruce smiled, looking pensive, mulling over what she had just said. That was a lot of food for thought. ‘Let her in Bruce’ still echoed in his head.

‘Great Hera, don’t let this man’s pride deny me, deny us this’ Diana prayed silently.

Bruce finally spoke, nodding slowly.

«Of course, to the rest of the world, Bruce Wayne must grow old and eventually die. An eternally young Bruce Wayne might attract the wrong kind of attention." He said, pensively.

Then he smirked: "I have faked my own death before, you should have seen Superman’s horrified expression when I did, an old Yoga trick. But this needs to be our secret, Diana, and no one else’s. Only you and I must know I am no longer ageing.» Bruce looked quite serious.

Diana smiled. Bruce had not decided to hide behind the Mantle of the Bat: his principles and excuses, to refuse her again. He wanted to be her mate; he was ready to perform the 12 tasks of Herakles all over again to be with her.

She knew he was a master of disguise, she had seen him play an old man quite convincingly. He could also assume a new identity once Bruce Wayne is believed to be dead and Batman long gone, and once he knew Wayne Enterprises and the Wayne Foundation were in good hands … his new alter ego would probably take over both companies, to assure crooked executives never would.

She also knew him well enough to know he couldn’t stay away from crime fighting for much too long, Batman and Wonder Woman would return together perhaps a hundred years from now, under some form or other. That thought filled her with cheer.

Bruce continued, «And I’m counting on you to keep me in line if I ever become reckless again, or if I start believing in my own invulnerability.» He said.

«Count on it, tough guy!» She said, unable to resist the pet nickname she had given him when they defeated Child Sorcerer Mordred. Contrarily to Bruce, she had enjoyed being a child again.

She then regained her solemn expression. She knew this wasn’t going to be easy.

«Ready?» She asked.

«Fire away, Princess!» he replied.

"Themysciran tradition has a simple ceremony for the initiation: The Amazon must pour the extract in her mate’s mouth and hold on to him, so that the first sight he sees after the extract has taken effect is that of the woman he loves." She explained.

They knelt face to face. She pulled the cork, making a dull pop.

"Open your mouth" she said.

Bruce complied. She put the vile to his lips, and poured the extract in his mouth.

‘I trust her, with my life’ he thought as he swallowed.

A flavour between raw honey, royal jelly and bitter apples filled his mouth and throat. As he felt the liquid going down his oesophagus and settling down in his empty stomach, a wave of cold swept over his entire body. He began shivering, then shaking quite hard.

«P-potent s-stuff y-your h-highness!» he tried to joke.

She knew the effects of the extract could be quite overwhelming on a human being.

"Thank Hera Bruce has a strong heart." She thought. She held onto him, kept him warm the best she could.

"In order to become eternal, one must first die" Bruce thought, "now where Have I heard that before?"

The room seemed to swirl out of focus. His limbs seemed to lose all strength. Diana held him tighter, cradling his head. His only connection to reality was Diana’s body, holding him steady, giving him warmth.

The shivers slowly subsided, the temporary delirium stopped. She smoothed his hair and kissed him again.

He sat up, trying to shake out the cobwebs. She ran her smooth hands from the nape of his neck to the small of his back, up and down, as if to remove his goose bumps

.

He was beginning to feel … as if energy was coursing through his veins. He kissed her back, passionately. He wanted her, now. She gladly obliged. They made love.

Diana had been told of old folk tales from Themyscira that once a mate had been initiated, after the initial effects of the ambrosia extract had passed; the mate was overtaken by his primal urges, and became quite frisky. She now saw first hand that it was no tale. The libido returns to normal afterwards, which is still quite good! Diana thought with a smile.

This was hardly the first time they had made love, only this time … every sense was heightened, every touch more sensuous, every kiss sweeter, and every caress more blissful. They climaxed.

He rolled on his back, panting. She propped herself up on one elbow and looked at him, with a smirk. She felt as giddy a schoolgirl. She could see that at that very moment, Bruce looked perfectly serene.

The omnipresent darkness usually etched on his face seemed to have disappeared. "So this is what Bruce Wayne looks like when he’s happy … Mighty Aphrodite, I’m good!’ she thought, eyes dazzling.

He looked back at her, lovingly brushed a lock of hair from her cheek, caressed it, let his fingers gently brush her chin, and traced her lips ever so gently with his finger. She playfully gave his finger a gentle bite.

«I could really get used to this! » he said, then more gently: «I don’t deserve you».

She grinned, giddy schoolgirl expression still present on her face, and said: « Darn right you don’t! » she leaned on his chest and whispered «But I love you anyway Mister Wayne!» They kissed again.

« Hungry yet?» She asked, raising her head.

«I am now,» he said. Then his expression lit up. Now he was the one looking like an excited teenager: «After brunch, I’m taking you shopping! Er … do you only have your Wonder Woman garb with you?»

Diana smiled, "Bruce, have you forgotten already?"

She put on her Wonder Woman suit and spun a few turns, magically changing into the clothes she wore last, a blue turtleneck sweater and a matching skirt, low-heeled black open toe shoes and prop glasses. Her hair was done up in a bun.

Bruce smiled and nodded.

«Come Princess, first we eat, then, Bruce Wayne is taking Diana Prince shopping. I also have gifts to buy for my adoptive son and the woman he loves». He said.

He took her hand. To the kitchen they went. On their way, she frowned for a moment, feeling amazed.

"Now how in Hera’s name did he know my alter ego during World War II was Diana Prince?" She wondered. That man never ceased to amaze her. She liked that.

Back in New York, Nightwing was finally arriving to Titan Tower. The trip from Gotham City had been long and tiresome, but Wonder Woman’s words had hit home. His mind was racing at such a pace that he had no time to feel fatigued. And it felt to him that the closer he got to the familiar building, the more he felt as nervous as a teenager about to ask the cutest girl in class to the prom.

Starfire, the girl he had fallen in love with, the girl he intimately knew as Kory Anders, had returned to Earth. She had come back to heal her wounds: her home planet of Tamaran had been destroyed, New Tamaran had been founded but she felt no attachment to it.

She had been married twice on her home planet; the first time was a marriage of State to prevent a Civil War. That was a failure, as war occurred anyway, and her first husband, Karras, was killed.

She re-married to General Phy’Zonn, to free her planet; and he was also killed. Earth was the only home left to her

.

She had settled down in San Francisco, where her cover was that of a fashion model. Somehow, she could not stay away from her friends, her family, the Titans for very long. Unbeknownst to Nightwing, he was the main reason she kept coming back.

Nightwing parked his motorcycle. The automatic garage door closed behind him as the elevator doors opened almost simultaneously. He realised now, how Alfred’s call to come to Gotham City and talk some sense into Bruce had given him an excuse not to be here at Titan Tower.

He was feeling too many mixed emotions. There were too many things he wanted to tell Kory but didn’t know how, from fear she would never take him back. Bruce was one of the reasons they had drifted apart in the first place.

"Then again, she did forgive Raven for breaking up our Wedding" he thought. "Agreed, Raven wasn’t exactly herself - being possessed by Trigon, her evil father."

Then, there was Barbara. While Kory was gone, he genuinely believed she and him would rekindle their puppy love, but she denied him, opting to only be friends. Thanks to Wonder Woman, he finally understood why. Barbara – the former Batgirl – sensed he still loved Kory, and knew his heart would never be entirely hers.

At least, the situation had evolved: Bruce was allowing Diana in his life.

"Less personal turmoil means better crime fighting’" he reasoned. And, to paraphrase Diana: "in our violent lives, love doesn’t come easily, if it comes at all. Don’t turn it away when it does come, especially when the one you love can kick serious butt." he grinned at the notion of the Princess of Themyscira using the term ‘butt’.

He became so engrossed in his own train of thought he hadn’t noticed the elevator doors opening. He looked up distractedly. ‘Humph!’ is all he said as he entered the lounge area. Cyborg and Beast Boy were playing yet another video game.

"No longer teens, but some things never change’" he snickered.

«Back already Bro?» Cyborg asked.

«How’s Batman?» Beast Boy asked.

« I think things are going to work out all right,» Nightwing said, looking satisfied. «Er, guys, where’s…»

He didn’t get a chance to finish, Cyborg and Beast Boy replied in unison:« She’s in her quarters!» The two of them exchanged a sideways wink.

Nightwing felt embarrassed « Am I that obvious?» he asked.

Beast Boy replied: «Dude, you both were that obvious from the time you were still called Robin! And a blind man could see you still have feelings for each other! I mean, weren’t about to get mar…Ow!»

Cyborg had elbowed Beast Boy’s arm, as if to say shut up, mind your business! Beast Boy turned to Cyborg and said «What?» Cyborg gave Beast Boy an annoyed look, and turned to Nightwing.

«Raven is trying to teach Starfire meditation."

"See? She forgave Raven; you still have a chance." Dick thought.

Cyborg continued: "But our big mouth buddy here’s right…»

Beast Boy said « Hey!» arms crossed, sounding defensive.

Cyborg ignored him « …it’s pretty obvious to me she keeps coming back here to see you.»

Nightwing looked flustered «It was this obvious to everybody but me … I must be slipping.» Nightwing said.

Beast Boy said «Just go talk to her! You’re holding up the game!»

Cyborg elbowed him again

«Ow! What?» Beast Boy said, rubbing his arm.

After Nightwing left for the living quarters, Beast Boy turned to Cyborg.

«Dude, what’s up with his mask?» He said.

Cyborg shrugged, looking puzzled.

Dick felt himself tensing up as he approached Kory’s quarters. He knew Raven would sense his presence and she would let Kory know she had a visitor. ‘Just be yourself, don’t get cocky and tell her how you feel. Then, keep your composure if she dumps you.’ He reasoned.

He drew in a deep breath and raised his hand to knock at the door. As expected, Raven had sensed him, the door opened before he could even make a fist.

«Come in, she’s expecting you.» said Raven, the slightest smile on her lips.

As Raven walked out of the room, Dick couldn’t resist teasing her: «Why Raven, is that a smile I see on your face?»

Her smile widened, she turned to him and said «Your mask’s on inside out, tough guy!»

Dick blushed. "I am slipping!" he thought.

«Get in there and talk to her already!» Raven said.

He walked in, wishing his heart would beat a little quieter. Starfire was sitting at the edge of her bed, hands on her lap, trying to conceal her emotions. They exchanged shy glances, neither one of them could figure out how to break the ice.

He finally mustered: «Hello Starfire, you look well.»

‘Moron, is that the best opener you could come up with?’ He thought.

Kory tried to keep a cool demeanour. She could feel his discomfort. In reality, she also felt quite nervous. "Life can be so complicated!" she thought.

«Hello Rob – Nightwing» she had always had a hard time adjusting to his name change. « You look well too, please sit down. Is that a new mask?»

Embarrassed, he took his mask off. When he was in the Bat-Cave, he was trying so hard to hide his giggles he hadn’t realised he’d put it on inside out. And neither Diana nor Bruce had pointed it out to him.

Agreed, Bruce only had the emergency lights on, the Bat-Cave was darker than usual, but still … he sat down next to her, shrugging comically.

«The mask!» He said, trying to see the humour in all this. «If it’s all the same to you, how about I keep it off, and how about we use our real names?»

She smiled, looking more at ease. «That would be wonderful, Dick!» He returned her smile. The ice was broken.

Now for the matter at hand…

Dick spoke up, with a resigned shrug. He was afraid he’d lose his nerve if he looked her in the eyes, so he kept his focus on the wall facing them.

«Look, there’s no right way or easy way for me to say this, so forgive me if I blurt this out: Part of me died when Trigon ruined our Wedding using Raven’s body. It felt like my heart had been torn out. Letting you go to Tamaran was the hardest thing for me to do, ever. Giving you up to Karras was the biggest mistake of my life. I have regretted it every day since. I’ve never, ever stopped loving you.»

She could feel tears coming to her eyes. There were times where she believed he no longer cared for her. Many times, she resented Bruce for preaching ‘justice above all’ to them both and disapproving of their relationship, deeming it frivolous.

But Bruce was also a father figure to Dick; he was the reason Dick Grayson had become Robin in the first place. With no Robin, they never would have met. Yes, Raven’s interference while she was possessed by Trigon had felt like a bad Omen to her. She did need to distance herself, to think. She intended on coming back to Dick.

What she had not counted on was to be cornered into a marriage of state to prevent a Tamaranian civil war. Dick hadn’t said or done anything to stop her. She at that point believed Dick had fallen out of love with her.

How wrong had she been! She could now see how deeply it had hurt him: he felt he had to let her go, and give her up for the greater good, his own feelings be damned.

«Dick, I didn’t realise…» she started. He held her hands and shook his head.

«You did what you had to do. We both did. Between breaking my heart to save an entire planet, or saving my feelings; I’d say saving the planet comes first!» He said.

Kory was not sobbing, but tears were coursing down her pretty face. Letting go of her hands, he embraced her. Wiping her tears with one gloved hand, putting his free arm around her shoulders.

‘If she lets me keep my arm, I might have a chance’ he thought. She leaned on him, resting her head on his shoulder, welcoming his embrace, holding his free hand tenderly with both of hers.

He shivered. ‘Still got my arm, she’s keeping her warrior instincts under control. Don’t chicken out now Grayson’ he thought.

«While I was in Gotham, I didn’t realise Alfred had also called in Wonder Woman,» he said.

«But why?» Kory asked, looking up at him.

«Long story short, it would seem Bruce had feelings for her. And as it turns out, the feelings were mutual» He said.

Kory’s expression was one of amazement «Batman, and, Wonder Woman?» She said.

Dick smiled «Don’t knock it, she’s one lover who kicks serious butt. And she is wise. Before I left, she told me not to be a stubborn jackass like Bruce. And she made one heck of a point: we live violent lives, love doesn’t come easily, if it comes at all for people like us, who put our lives on the line every day. Never turn it away if it does come, especially when the one you love can also kick serious butt.» he said, surprised about how well it had come out.

Kory looked happy, excited and confused all at once. ‘Go for it now Grayson’ he thought.

«Kory, I know life isn’t perfect, but if you still have any feelings left for me, please, please take me back, I still love you.» he said, feeling as if he had just perspired a gallon of sweat.

Kory was crying, tears of happiness, tears of joy.

« Oh, Robin er, Nightwing, I mean, Dick!» She kissed him passionately.

As they broke their lip lock, Dick was gasping for air. «Don’t know your own strength!» he said.

She hugged him, more gently, nestling her face on his shoulder. She closed her eyes. He wanted her back; she wanted him back. Her emotions were overflowing. She opened up to him.

«I have never stopped loving you either. After Trigon ruined our wedding using Raven, I was upset, but not at you. I was afraid their attack was a bad Omen on our love, all I wanted was some time alone, to think things over. I swear I wanted to come back to you … but then, news of civil unrest on Tamaran was announced to me." She turned to look at Dick and looked down.

"I was told that by marrying Karras, a War could be averted. Part of me wanted you to swoop in and take me away, kidnap me, on my Wedding day. But that would have started a war between our two worlds. You did the right thing in holding back. Part of me resented you for not taking me away and back to Earth, I have shame to admit. And I have resented Bruce for so long for disapproving of us." She sighed.

"But after Karras died, and after my second husband Phy’zzon also died, Tamaran was destroyed. New Tamaran was created, but it held nothing familiar to me. Home was Earth. So I returned to where my friends were; where my Robin was. You were my Robin before you ever became Nightwing, before I even knew your real name. Part of me held onto the hope, as slight as it may be that this would happen. That we, would be given a second chance. » She got up, and stretched, smiling.

Dick looked at her admiringly ‘She’s so beautiful! Prettier than I could remember!’ He thought. Kory continued:

«For all of the resentment I felt for you, part of me could not let go of you. Throughout my two loveless marriages, as short as they were, the notion that I would have you in my life once again kept me alive through many hard, lonely times.» She said.

She looked at Dick lovingly, arms outstretched to him. He took her hands.

«Today, reunited we are. Please introduce me to Wonder Woman so I may thank her! And as much as I resented Bruce, now that he seems to have turned the book…» She said.

Dick smiled. She still got her expressions mixed up, bless her, and good God he missed that so much!

«That’s turned the page, » Dick said, smiling. Kory felt embarrassed and tried to correct herself.

« Yes, yes, turned the book’s pages, yes, since Batman decided to open his heart to Wonder Woman’s love, I can forgive him now.» she said.

He stood up still holding her hands, then took her in his arms. They kissed. In her uncanny way, Kory asked, «Dick? If you make the love to me, will you be gentle?»

She had a knack of asking such questions with an innocence that floored him every time.

«Well, er, that is … here is not the best place!» He replied, sounding flustered.

He could just imagine the other Titans eves dropping on this very conversation, let alone making love to her near indiscreet ears, be they friendly ones or not.

«My place in San Francisco then?» She asked, head tilted to the side, with «that look» on her face.

He looked at her gape mouthed for a second, then smiled.

«That sounds wonderful. And yes, I will be gentle. In fact I will be any way you want me to be.» he said.

They kissed again. While she could have a hard time repressing her warrior impulses, she could still have «that look»: a disarming expression of pure innocence on her face – which was what had won his heart when they first met.

Agreed he had felt attracted to her from day one: she was as pretty then as now, but whenever she had that pure, innocent look on her face, she had him wrapped around her finger.

«Do you think they were eves dropping?» he asked, looking at the door.

«I will kick their back ends if they did!» She replied.

«Rear ends, Star, rear ends!» Dick said.

She was about to correct herself, but he held her closer and kissed her again instead. She giggled charmingly as they kissed.

"Oh God how much I’ve missed her!" He thought. She seemed to have read his mind. Still in his arms, she looked up, smiling, her green eyes melting his heart.

«To San Francisco then?» she asked.

«I thought you’d never ask!» he said with that smirk she found so seductive. As they were about to leave, trying to be as quiet as possible, they missed a green hummingbird flying away at full speed.

Beast Boy, in his hummingbird shape, thought: «She’ll hand me my lungs if she finds out I’ve been listening!»

Back in Gotham City, Bruce and Diana were sitting at the back of a limousine, the black Rolls Royce with the sound proof partition and the intercom. Alfred had insisted: he respected his employer’s privacy, knowing full well he had to nurture Master Bruce and Mistress Diana’s rebirth as a couple. He would nurture it and protect it to his dying breath if he had to. They were good for each other.

Bruce wore black loafers, dark slacks, a white shirt and a dark blazer to match his slacks, and no tie. Diana wore the blue turtleneck sweater and a matching skirt (not often did she wear a skirt – a perfect cover to hide her Wonder Woman identity) and low-heeled black open toe shoes she was wearing before her last transformation into Wonder Woman

No matter how geeky she tried to look, the prop glasses and hairstyle still made her look sexy.

Thus, Bruce and Diana rode to the posh fashion district of Gotham City in style: hand in hand, enjoying a glass of Champagne. Alfred had said: «I though Champagne would be in order sir!» It was certainly appreciated.

«Now I could get used to this!» Diana said.

Bruce gave her hand a gentle squeeze. «Of course eventually we’ll have to go back to the Watchtower.» he said, grimly.

He enjoyed having Diana to himself, but he knew their responsibilities as Justice Leaguers could not be neglected either.

«Yes Bruce. And I know a lot of people who will be happy and relieved to see you!» She said, cheerfully.

Bruce nodded. The drive would be long enough for them to discuss more things.

«Princess, while my initiation must remain a secret, I feel it would make our lives easier if we let the rest of the Founding Members in on the fact that we’re a couple, and perhaps a select few others – Dick and Kory, Tim…» he said.

Diana smiled, this was making her very happy. She wrapped her arms around him, nearly spilling her Champagne.

«Oh Bruce, do you really mean it?» She asked, covering his face with kisses.

«Easy Princess, I think the Champagne is going to your head!» he teased.

She straightened herself up in her seat, a look of mock defiance on her face:

«Try this on for size, tough guy!» she said, and then gulped her entire glass. "See," she said, "still perfectly sober!» then let out a loud belch, covering her mouth with both hands, Champagne glass dangling from her fingers, her eyes betraying her own surprise. «Oops! » is all she said, looking quite embarrassed.

Bruce chuckled and finished his own glass.

«Dick knows by now we’re together, and if he followed your advice, Kory knows too. I have been rather harsh towards them in the past, for their wanting to be a couple. I was wrong, and I want to make it up to them, let them know how sorry I am for being a stubborn fool, and that I wish them well.» he said.

Bruce poured himself a bit more Champagne, and topped up Diana’s glass.

«There may be hope for you yet Mister Wayne!» She said, and took a dainty sip from her glass, learning from her last gulp.

Bruce said: «I pulled some strings. Kory ‘s secret identity is that of a fashion model. I found out who her agent is, and from him, what her dress and shoe sizes are. He probably thinks Bruce Wayne wants to add Kory Anders to his long list of conquests…» he winked at Diana

«… When in fact, ‘Papa Bruce’ wants to be forgiven. Would you help me choose an evening dress for her? I plan on spoiling the both of them: a dozen roses, a dress, shoes, a suit for Dick and treat them both to a dinner in one of San Francisco’s finest Restaurants, maybe a concert or the Ballet.» he said.

His mastery as a sleuth amazed her. She said, «Of course I will help! You are a good man Bruce Wayne.»

Bruce felt like he was on top of the world. «I try my best! And anything you want, Princess, you got it,» he said.

«I already do!» She said, pulling him closer to her.

«I truly don’t deserve you, Princess.» he said.

«You bet you don’t. That’s why I’m so crazy about you!» She said. They resumed kissing, empty Champagne glasses forgotten on the seat beside them. Get a grip he thought there’s a time and place for everything.

She was hardly stopping him though: growing increasingly passionate. Alfred’s voice in the intercom snapped them both out of it.

«We’re here Master Bruce.» Alfred said.

For a second, they both felt like a pair of lustful youths getting caught on the back seat of a car by a police officer. They looked at each other, and laughed heartily.

«Thanks Alfred!» Bruce replied. He turned to Diana: «I still don’t know what I’m going to tell the others when I get back to the Watchtower though. I’ve been such a jerk.»

Diana said: «How about: I had personal issues to sort out. I apologise for being a jerk and worrying my friends.»

Bruce smiled at her «Yes that is a good start». They got out of the limousine.

In San Francisco, Kory’s bedroom was quiet, save for some soft music in the background. Dick didn’t dare say a word. He didn’t want to break the charm: the smell of incense, the dim lights, the satin sheets, the fragrance of her perfume and shampoo mixed in with his after shave and the fragrance of their sweat.

He was afraid that if he said a word, he’d wake up in his quarters at Titan Tower, realising this had all been a sweet dream.

He turned to look at his lover, proving that this was all real, and nothing could wipe the smile off his face. The lovely Kory was right beside him, on her back, one hand under her head, her mane of fiery red hair spilling all over her pillow. Her expression of pure innocence was accentuated by an expression of great satisfaction.

Kory broke the silence, her voice music to his ears.

«That was wonderful Dick, you truly were gentle. You were perfect. My Robin». She said.

He was growing accustomed with her still calling him Robin; it had become a term of endearment. He did not mind at all.

She rolled on her side to face him, caressing his chest. «My late husbands were warriors, rough and selfish, thinking only of their own pleasure. You on the other hand are considerate, tender and loving. Thank you.» She said.

Dick began to say, «I love you. Being considerate is natural, no need to thank…»

She cut him off, embracing him, kissing him, rolling on top of him. He happily reciprocated. Yes, Wonder Woman was wise, very wise indeed. To think Kory and him could have denied themselves this very basic right to love and happiness had he not followed Wonder Woman’s advice.

She smiled. Her beautiful green eyes looked deeply into his.

«I love you too Dick Grayson, my Robin!» she said. «If I were a cat, I would be snoring right now!» she said, baiting Dick into correcting her.

«Purring, Star, that’s purring like a c –ayyie!» he said.

Kory gave him a playful bite on the shoulder. «I know,» she said, «I could not resist baiting you … and biting you!» she looked at her teeth marks and felt bad for biting him.

She kissed him where the bite marks were. «All better now?» she asked.

«Better than you think!» he said, rolling suddenly on top of her.

Kory let out a surprised «Oh!» and giggled.

A playful glimmer in his blue eyes, Dick was on top of her, pinning her arms above her head. «Bite me will you?» He said.

She giggled some more, enjoying every second of this sensual struggle. Again, she gave him «the look». «Kiss me?» is all she said.

He kissed her. They made love again.

Back in Gotham City, the Rolls Royce was driving back to Wayne Manor. To the storeowners it was nothing more than Bruce Wayne’ s latest shopping spree with his belle du jour.

"If they only knew!" Alfred thought.

He could see from the rear view mirror Miss Diana holding Master Bruce’s arm, her head on his shoulder, seemingly sleeping. He also saw the expression of blissful happiness on Master Bruce’s face. Alfred too could get used to this. Happiness in Wayne Manor, after so many years … what a concept!

There were parcels and bags from the various stores, some on the seat next to them, some on the floor.

«Kory will look absolutely ravishing in this dress!» Diana had said. «And Dick will look absolutely handsome in this suit!» She was right. They would turn many heads tonight, Bruce thought, nodding in agreement.

While Diana was insistent that Bruce’s love was the only present she ever really wanted, he did convince her to let him buy her a stunning red dress, with matching shoes and purse. He also got her a lovely pearl necklace, in spite of her protestations.

«It goes well with the outfit!» He said.

Jewellery was a dangerous luxury to an Amazon warrior when in combat, but since the necklace was to be worn with the outfit, not with her Wonder Woman uniform, she accepted.

In the limousine, Bruce asked: « Tired Princess?»

She moaned a little «A bit. But not too tired. You bought me the outfit, and you still owe me a dance.» She said with a tired smile.

The idea sounded wonderful. «Ballroom?» Bruce asked.

«I wouldn’t have it any other way my love.» She said.

My Love … that sounded so good to Bruce’s ears.

Bruce turned on the intercom.

«Alfred?» He asked.

«Yes Sir?» Alfred answered.

«Have the parcels marked ‘Dick and Kory’ delivered to the San Francisco address indicated on the label. Also, have one dozen long stem roses sent out in Kory’s name with a note saying ‘I was wrong, I apologise, please forgive me. Bruce’ and make sure they both get the reservations at ‘René’s’ and the tickets to the Ballet.» he said.

Bruce smiled. Kory’s agent had let it slip she enjoyed the Ballet. Dick will gladly take her.

Alfred replied «Very well Sir»

«And Alfred? Also have another dozen long stem roses sent to Wayne Manor. Then, take a few days off for yourself. I’ve been working you too hard as of late. Go spend some time at the Villa on the Riviera. You deserve some rest.» Bruce said.

Diana looked at Bruce approvingly. Alfred had worked very hard, and was instrumental in getting her and Bruce back together.

«Very well, Sir, and thank you Sir! The Riviera is wonderful this time of year, but Master Bruce, would it be preferable that I take my vacation after you take Mistress Diana dancing?» Alfred said.

«Alfred, have you been listening in?» Bruce replied; sounding a bit annoyed. His face betrayed the amusement he felt – it wasn’t the first time Alfred matched wits with him.

«Oh, perish the thought Sir, I just happened to be looking in the rear view mirror when Miss Diana mentioned you owed her a dance … I accidentally read her lips, forgive my intrusion.» Alfred said.

Bruce shook his head, chuckling a little. «"Accidentally" huh? Okay wise guy, do you remember the errands I’ve given you to do?» he asked.

«Very much so Master Bruce. I will get to it right away as soon as we’re home Sir.» Alfred replied.

«Good. Thanks old man, you’ve been a good friend to me.» Bruce said.

«And to me!» Diana chimed in.

«My pleasure!» Alfred said, a wide smile on his face. He did enjoy matching wits with Bruce every once and again, it kept his employer on his toes.

«Bruce, why the second dozen of roses?» Diana asked, still snuggled against his arm.

«For you.» He said.

They kissed.

Later that night, as they were getting ready for their night out, Alfred discreetly knocked at the bedroom door.

«Come in Alfred, everybody’s decent in here!» Bruce said. Diana looked absolutely stunning in her new red dress. She had done up her hair in a French braid, exposing her graceful neck and shoulders.

Alfred opened the door. «Incoming communication Sir, Master Dick and Miss Kory.» Alfred said.

«Thanks Alfred, patch it through the Comm link in the master bedroom?» Bruce said, having difficulties with his bow tie.

Diana came closer to him «Here, let me help.» she said, taking the silk tie from his hands.

«Count on you to keep an emergency Comm link in your bedroom!» She said, rolling her eyes. «How do I know you kept your promise to me now?» She said, with feigned exasperation.

«I kept my promise Princess. I slept. I swear on my parents’ grave…» he didn’t finish: he saw the teasing expression on her face. She was only kidding.

«I’m going to have to get used to your sense of humour!» He said.

She playfully stuck her tongue out at him, again looking like a giddy schoolgirl.

«I’m getting used to it already.» He said. They began kissing as the painting above the bed retracted, revealing the video Comm link.

«A-hem, shall we call you two love birds later?» Dick said. He was dressed in the suit, shirt and tie Bruce had sent over, and his hair neatly combed, a far cry from his long flowing hairstyle as Nigtwing.

Kory looked absolutely resplendent in the dress Diana had picked for her; a coral coloured strapless dress, her mane of fiery red locks straightened and styled for their night out.

Bruce and Diana giggled at being caught kissing again. She resumed tying up Bruce’s bow tie.

«Hi Dick, hi Kory! » She said.

«You two should get a room!» Dick said.

«This is my room!» Bruce answered.

Kory seemed confused by that exchange. Diana said: «Don’t mind them Kory: boy talk!»

Kory smiled knowingly, as Diana finished Bruce’s bow tie.

«Thanks.» Bruce said, kissing her hands.

Dick had never seen Bruce this happy. Things were changing, for the better.

«I take it you’ve received your gifts?» Bruce asked.

«Sure did, but Bruce, it really wasn’t necessary!» Dick said.

«The way I see it, it’s the least I can do. I’ve been a complete jerk to the both of you. Go out, enjoy yourselves, be happy.» Bruce said.

«Mister Wayne…» Kory began.

Bruce raised his hand «Bruce, please call me Bruce.» He said.

Kory smiled sweetly. «Very well then, Bruce, thank you for the wonderful gifts. I was very mad at you in the past, but all is forgotten, I forgive you. Like my Robin, you are a wonderful man.» she said, putting her arms around Dick’s waist.

Kory continued: «Diana of Themyscira, thank you as well, from the bottom of my heart, you have returned my Robin to me».

Diana looked confused «Isn’t Tim Drake Robin now?» She asked.

«Oh he is » Kory said, «But to me, Dick will always be my Robin! »

Diana smiled. «That’s very sweet, Kory!» She said.

Dick couldn’t resist a wise crack: «What’s next guys, Barbecues on Sundays?»

Kory said excitedly: «Oh what a wonderful idea! I know a beautiful secluded island off the coast of Maui which would be perfect!»

Dick saw he put his foot in his mouth and tried to say he was only kidding, but before he could open his mouth, Diana chimed in,

«Yes! A tropical paradise, we could see the sun set, see the moon dancing in the waves, so romantic!» she said.

Bruce interjected, smiling: «Ladies, please! » To Dick and Kory: « First, you two enjoy dinner and the Ballet…»

Then to Diana who was enjoying every second of putting him on the spot like this:« … and we go for dinner and dancing.»

And to all of them « and we all enjoy ourselves tonight. For the rest, we’ll talk. I’m sure there will be plenty of Titans & Justice League business for us to handle before we can think of a romantic Barbecue somewhere in the South Pacific … though it does sound wonderful.» Bruce concluded.

All nodded in agreement.

«Well then, everybody have fun!» Dick said with a wink.

Kory added: «Yes, much enjoyment and love to you both!»

"Enjoy your evening. And see you soon» Diana concluded, snuggling up to Bruce’s arm.

"What she said, have fun, and keep in touch! Wayne Manor out." Bruce said.

"Ciao Bruce!" Dick said. Kory waved, smiling. Bruce and Diana returned the wave as the video link terminated.

"And now, my dearest Diana, I am taking you dancing!» he said.

She kissed him. «Have I told you that I love you recently?» she asked

«I believe you just did,» he said, with a smirk. «Right back at you Princess.»

Alfred was already waiting for them by the limousine.

"Better not keep him waiting," she said, "he’s waiting for us so he can go on vacation already!"

Several days later, in Watchtower 1, Flash walked up to Green Lantern on their way to the boardroom, the one restricted to founding members only.

«Bats is coming back with a bang – calling for a meeting of the Founding Members after being away for so long.» Flash said.

Green Lantern replied «I have a hunch I know what it’s about, but I could be wrong. We’ll have to let Batman explain himself … I sure hope he’s not resigning from the League for good.»

Flash looked worried and said «Bats quit the League? Nah, I don’t buy it … then again could it be? I mean are we positive he’s okay? I mean, I saw him when he got to the Watchtower with the Princess … he was actually smiling! He’s gotta be sick!» Flash said.

Green Lantern shook his head: «Flash, are you ever serious?» He said.

Flash responded defensively: «I am being serious!»

They walked in the boardroom. Everybody was there, save for Hawkgirl, who walked in soon after Flash and Green Lantern. They all sat down.

Batman spoke up: «First of all, thank you for agreeing to this meeting on such short notice. I believe an apology is in order. To each and every one of you: I apologise for the antisocial behaviour I have demonstrated in the past six weeks. I have been a jerk to all of you, and I am sorry.»

Batman paused, giving Wonder Woman a furtive sideways glance. "You’re doing fine my love" her expression seemed to say.

A very discreet smile on his lips, Batman continued: "I want each and every one of you to know that over the years, you have become far more than colleagues to me. After going through the situations we have as a team, I have learned to rely on you, like a family. I had no right to take out my frustrations on you, only to shut you out when I should have confided in you all."

Batman paused again and sighed. He continued: "My time secluded in the Bat-Cave gave me a lot of time to think, and face some personal demons. It didn’t take a genius to figure out I was going on self-destruct, though I couldn’t see it."

Flash thought: "My God, Bats is quitting the League, he can’t quit; we need him!"

Batman continued: «Suffice it to say that I had serious changes to make, but couldn’t figure out where to start. With the help of Wonder Woman, Nightwing, my butler Alfred, and even you Superman, I have managed to settle my issues, and initiate some positive changes.»

Looking at each of them as he spoke, he said: «It goes without saying that I trust each and everyone of you implicitly, with my life.»

They all smiled at this, nodding.

«Thus, I see no problem in putting each and everyone of you in my confidence. What I tell you now must remain among us.» Batman said.

All nodded in agreement again. While Batman’s voice sounded self-assured, he could feel his heart racing. He cast another discreet glance towards Wonder Woman. "Yes Bruce, tell them! Don’t chicken out now!" Is what he could read on her face.

«Wonder Woman and I are in love,» he said.

Martian Manhunter smiled contentedly; he had known all along and kept his silence.

Flash cocked his head sideways as if in shock, then thought: "Wonder Woman and him in love? No wonder Bats is smiling!"

Green Lantern and Hawkgirl both looked up to the ceiling, grinning, as if to say, «I knew it!»

Superman looked surprised but glad, one eyebrow raised and a smile on his lips.

Wonder Woman, who had been sitting next to Batman reached to grab one of his gloved hands.

"Look at those two" Superman thought, "they’re positively glowing!"

Still holding Wonder Woman’s hand, Batman concluded: «We have decided to pursue a relationship. And I am resuming my part time duties with the Justice League. She’ll make sure I walk the straight and narrow from now on!» he said, raising her hand, the patented Batman smirk on his face.

«I guess congratulations are in order!» Superman said, smiling.

They all got up from their seats, warm handshakes, hugs and words of congratulations abounding from that tight knit group of friends, including a few «About sweet time!» and «Told you so!» from Hawkgirl and Green Lantern.

The meeting ended, Wonder Woman took Batman aside

.

«See, that wasn’t so hard! You’ve made me very happy Bruce!» She said.

«I couldn’t be happier myself!» He said.

«My place or yours tonight?» she whispered.

«Yours» Bruce said. «Alfred’s on holidays and I’m on sentry duty for the next 4 hours.»

Sentry duty was kept short and shared between Justice Leaguers to break the monotony.

«Good!» She said. «I can keep you company, barring an emergency on Earth. And once you’re off duty … you’re all mine, in my quarters!» She added with a wink.

Her eyes were glowing with excitement, feeling once again giddy as a Schoolgirl.

«Sounds wonderful to me!" he said. She kissed him passionately.

"A little sample of what’s waiting for you after your Sentry duty!" She whispered sensuously.

"This is going to be a long 4 hours!" Batman thought, looking at her.

Things were looking up indeed.

Decades later, the moon shines over a small island in the Caribbean. A couple is dancing cheek to cheek near a fire on a beach, a portable stereo playing music.

"Enjoying your Sabbatical Mr. Wayne?" she asks.

"More than you know Princess!" He says. They paused to look at the moon reflecting in the waves, sitting down in the sand.

"I know that look Bruce, what’s up? Remember you promised no Bat business!" She said, teasingly.

"A promise is a promise my love, " he said. "… Do you remember that Circus Act in Rio?"

"I certainly do!" she said.

"The trapezist performed a quadruple summersault." He said.

"Yes, I remember, is that significant?" she asked.

"There was only one man who could perform that particular move. His name was Dick Grayson." He said. The Bat smirk was on his face.

"Surely you don’t think, " she said.

"I guess it is plausible that another acrobat could have learned the quadruple summersault." Bruce said.

"You don’t sound convinced." Diana said, with a smirk.

Bruce smiled. "It is also plausible that if I was able to have the same life span as my Amazon lover thanks to her initiating me …I trained him well, very well. He could be as driven as me … I can just see him finding a way to match Kory’s life span, don’t ask me how." Bruce said, pensively.

"I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!" Diana said, leaning on Bruce. He put his arm around her.

"Who knows, we might have that family picnic after all!" He said, with a chuckle. "I promise I won’t bring back Batman until Terry packs it in; but … nobody says we can’t investigate off the record, see if Dick and Kory aren’t living incognito, somewhere!" Bruce said, looking excited at the prospect.

"That sounds wonderful Bruce!" she said, gently turning his head towards her. They kissed. With the moon and stars their only witness, they made love on the beach.