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bluejaysandblackbats · 11 hours

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Phantom Grin

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam

Summary: Bruce Wayne visits his son's grave on the night of his resurrection. Will it change Jason's fate, or is it all simply inevitable?

Chapters: 6/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne, Dick Grayson, Alfred Pennyworth, Barbara Gordon, Tim Drake, Cassandra Cain

Relationship(s): Jason Todd/Original Character

Additional Tags: Canon Divergent AU, Jason Todd Has Chronic Pain, Jason Todd is Disabled, Barbara Gordon is Oracle, Resurrected Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Communicating, Jason Todd & Bruce Wayne Get Along

Chapter Six: Storybook

Later that night, he crept downstairs and ran into Dick. Dick smiled at him, and as he opened his mouth to speak, Jason gestured for him to stay silent. He waved his hands, with fear written all over his face, and Dick took him by the arm, and they went back upstairs. "What's-." Jason gestured for Dick to keep his voice down. Dick nodded and looked at Jason's backpack. "What's wrong?" Dick asked.

"Not safe," Jason whispered, "Help me."

"Help you leave?" Dick asked. Jason nodded. "Why? What happened?"

"Dad... Don't trust Dad," Jason whispered.

Dick looked at Jason, and it was obvious that Jason was planning to leave with or without his help. "Okay, listen to me... Jason, we can get out of here tonight if you don't feel safe," Dick whispered, "But as far as I know, Bruce would never hurt you—."

"Not safe, Dick," Jason interrupted.

"Okay, after we leave, will you help me understand what you mean?" Dick asked. Jason nodded. They crept back downstairs, and Dick took Jason out to the car. Jason felt a tingling pain like electricity, running from Jason's head to his shoulders. Nerve pain. After nearly a month of tests for his persistent headaches, his doctors realized that was the cause of Jason's near-constant pain. He slumped down in the seat and closed his eyes.

"Pain?" Dick asked. Jason nodded. "Is it bad?" He started driving away from the manor, and Jason shook his head. A lie, but he didn't want to risk Dick taking him back to the hospital. "Jason? What did you remember about Bruce that's so bad you wanted to run away?"

"Hitting me..."

"Are you sure it wasn't your birth father? I know Willis—." Jason pressed his palms against his eyelids. "Jason, you never really talked about Willis, but he hurt you..."

Jason lay his head back. Dick sighed. "Jason, do you trust me?" Dick asked.

"Don't know," Jason replied honestly. Dick nodded.

Dick didn't know what to say. He couldn't stop Jason's pain, and he couldn't fix his memories. There was nothing he could do, and Jason needed help. The boys drove outside of town, and as soon as Jason drifted off to sleep, Dick stopped at a hotel and checked in. He didn't do so because he believed Jason's memory. Dick did it because there was no use in stressing Jason out any more than Jason already was. He came back to the car and woke Jason. "Jason, wake up," Dick whispered. Jason sat up and followed Dick up to their room. Jason climbed into bed, and Dick sat on the other bed, watching the tv. Jason lay curled up. Bruce called Dick and Dick sent a text in reply. Dick deleted the message immediately after sending it.

Dick sat awake the whole night, trying to figure out how to help Jason. When Jason awakened, he curled up in a ball facing Dick and mumbled, "Help?" Dick nodded.

"Yeah... Help," Dick replied, "How'd you and Cassie get along?"

Jason gave Dick a thumb's up. "I feel like you two would've gotten along either way. Jason, do you trust me now?" Dick asked.

Jason didn't answer. He wondered if he could trust anyone. Jason felt lost and alone in his own mind as he thought about Dick's question. An answer wouldn't have meant anything. He could've lied if he wanted to. "Who's Robin?" Jason asked.

Dick lay on his side facing Jason. "Robin's who I used to be, who you used to be, and now there's another. Jason, I could tell you everything I know, but it's up to you to decide whether or not you believe me," Dick whispered, "I'm not going to lie to you."

"Tell me?" Jason asked.

"I'm going to tell you a story... This story's true. It's yours, and I want you to pay attention," Dick whispered, "When Jason Peter Todd was twelve years old, he stole the tires off of the Batmobile and made Batman laugh. Jason, at first glance, was rough around the edges, he was temperamental, impulsive, and some would even say he was impatient. Batman didn't care. He saw something in Jason, and he took him home.

There, Jason got to know Bruce Wayne, the man behind the mask. With every passing day, Bruce grew to love Jason more and more, and Jason started to love him. Bruce made Jason feel safe. When Jason felt safe, he showed his true self. He was compassionate, warm, and some would even say charming, but I wouldn't go that far.

Jason became Bruce's Robin. They were nearly inseparable... Then came Dick. He could've been far more understanding when he met Jason, but he was upset with Bruce. Dick felt he'd been replaced, but things eventually smoothed out between the three. As Jason got older, Bruce started noticing how strong Jason's emotions were. Jason's compassion was often paired off with rage. He was harsh in his dealings with wrongdoers, and it frightened Bruce. He couldn't control Jason, so he asked Jason to take a step back for a while, not realizing there was much more going on.

Jason was looking for his mother. He ran away from home searching for her, and Bruce came around and tried to help. Jason found her. In the process, he crossed a horrible man, a man that would later kill Jason.

When Jason died, Bruce's heart broke. He put Jason's costume up and tried desperately to pack away the hurt that came with it. Bruce never wanted to live in a world without Jason... But he had to go on because his city needed him to." Dick took a deep breath, and Jason closed his eyes. Pieces of the story came together for him, and they felt real, but he wasn't sure. Jason couldn't cry. He didn't have the words to explain his tears. He lay there, staring at Dick, who stared back at him.

Dick sat in silence with Jason like that for what felt like hours. "Jason?" Dick whispered. Jason nodded. "We love you. I know you don't know that for sure, but we do. None of us want to lose you again."

"Dad?" Jason asked. Dick nodded.

"Yeah, especially Bruce. Jason, I'm gonna ask you one more time, and then I won't ask you again. Do you trust me?" Dick questioned. Jason nodded. "Then let's call Bruce and let him know you're okay."

Jason nodded. "Mor-ning?" Jason whispered. The word felt unnatural on his tongue, and the corners of his mouth twitched. He knew he didn't get the word right. Dick smiled and nodded.

"You had it... And yeah, we'll call in the morning," Dick replied, "Go back to bed. I'll be here if you need me."

#fic #phantom grin fic #batfam #Jason Todd #Bruce Wayne #Dick Grayson #Alfred Pennyworth #Barbara Gordon #Tim Drake #Cassandra Cain #Jason Todd/Original Character #Canon Divergent AU #Jason Todd Has Chronic Pain #Jason Todd is Disabled #Barbara Gordon is Oracle #Resurrected Jason Todd #Bruce Wayne is Bad at Communicating #Jason Todd & Bruce Wayne Get Along

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bluejaysandblackbats · 18 hours

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Fanfic writers are like crows. If you give them treats (comments) they will bring you shiny things (fanfic)

#literally like send asks #yell at me about a thing in the plot you liked #I need to know what you guys like #I live for it

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bluejaysandblackbats · 19 hours

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If There’s Nothing Missing In My Life…

Fandom: DC Comics, Superfam

Summary: Newly-emancipated popstar and child actor, Conner (screen name: Lucky) navigates high school and stardom on his own.

Chapters: 15/?

Characters: Conner Kent, Lois Lane, Roxy Leech, Rex Leech, Lois Lane, Clark Kent, Hillary Chang

Additional Tags: Highschool AU, Celebrity AU, Conner Kent Needs a Hug, Conner Luthor, Lex Luthor is Conner’s Parent, Teen Angst, Angst, POV First Person, No Powers AU, Conner Kent-centric, Bisexual Conner Kent, POV Conner Kent, Protective Lex Luthor, Child Celebrity AU

Chapter Fifteen: The Truth

Clark and Lois showed up at the hotel for dinner. We ate in silence for the first half of dinner. Had I not been out of it, I would’ve noticed how out of character that was for them. “Their winter menu is always the best,” I whispered. Clark nodded, and Lois nudged him.

Clark swallowed hard. “Lucky, we wanted to talk to you. We went over a million different ways to explain this, but—.”

“Are you guys gonna have another kid?” I asked.

“Um… We have—. We have another kid,” Lois replied. I knit my brows together.

“What do you—? Did you adopt another kid?” I smiled. Lois and Clark shook their heads.

They looked at each other and then at me. “Lucky, you’re our other kid,” Lois answered. I didn’t understand. “Are you okay?”

“Um… I—. I don’t—. I didn’t hear you. I think I didn’t—.”

“Lucky, we weren’t settled in our careers. We didn’t know if we’d—. We weren’t sure we could give a child everything they needed, and Lex was at a banquet dinner. He kept talking about how wonderful it’d be to have a child. So, we asked if he’d be open to adopting a child soon,” Clark explained. I shook my head. I couldn’t breathe. I needed him to be quiet for a minute to gather my thoughts, but he kept talking.

“I look like Clark… You watched me grow up. No one ever said a word. The interviews… The birthdays—.” I pushed my bangs back, trying to pull myself together.

“Lucky—.”

“Call me by my real name, Lois… We don’t have to pretend anymore—.”

“We—. Lex never told us what he named you,” Clark interrupted. I laughed involuntarily.

“Okay… Um—.” I panted as I stood up. “Okay. Well, thank you for telling me.” I couldn’t say what I wanted to. I didn’t know what to think. “I’m sorry… I’m sure it was—. I don’t know what to say to you. I’m sorry. I need some time to think.”

Clark reached across the table, and I flinched away. “Please go,” I whispered. “Please. Please. Please.”

Everything between that exchange and the interview felt like a blur. I hadn’t slept, I wasn’t eating much, and my head felt like I’d crammed it in a trash compactor. I came in with a cup, chewing on crushed ice. I didn’t brush my hair or anything. I looked like crap. “Hi, Lucky,” the interviewer smiled. He was a new guy. I hadn’t met him yet. “I’m sorry. We haven’t met yet. I’m Jordan Martin.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m not—. I’ve been eating ice with my fingers. I’d shake your hand if my fingers weren’t wet. I promise I’m not being weird. I’m just—. I’m sorry. Hi, Jordan,” I replied. Jordan squinted at me.

“No, it’s cool. You’re good. How was your flight? You got here last week, right?” Jordan asked while we sat down and got our mics put on.

“Um… No, I’ve been here since—. Like… I’ve been here since the nineteenth. Not long. The flight was cool. I thought the weather was gonna be off, but it was alright,” I answered, “How are you? Are you good?”

“I’m alright. Thanks for asking,” Jordan smiled. I shook a few ice chips into my mouth and crunched with my back teeth. “We’ve got snacks out back if you want.”

“Oh… Um… Nah, I’m good. Thanks, though,” I answered. I scratched my head and fixed my clothes. My skin crawled, and I couldn’t sit still. It must’ve looked strange.

“You need some time to relax before the—...” Jordan tried to take it easy on me, but I was so out of it that I didn’t realize I was acting strange.

“Nuh-uh. I’m ready to go,” I answered.

The cameraman gave us a thumbs-up, and we nodded. Jordan introduced himself and me, then we got into the questions. “Before we get started, when are we getting the album?” Jordan asked.

I chuckled, but as soon as it happened, I felt like it was disembodied. I blinked hard and ate another mouthful of ice. I winced at the cold, and it pulled me back. “Um… It’ll be soon. I won’t say when, but I can say there’s an announcement coming this week,” I answered.

“Okay… Can you tell us anything about the album?” Jordan asked.

“It’s—.” I yawned. “I’m sorry. I—. The album’s not like the music I usually make. It’s closer to my taste in music.”

“Are there any elements of romance in this album? And do you think of yourself as a romantic person?” Jordan questioned.

“There’s been a push for me to include elements of romance in my album. I’m not averse to romance. I’d like to find love someday, but it’s tough. I’m sixteen, famous, and sensitive. I’m painfully sensitive,” I replied, “But no. No romance.”

“Painfully. That’s an interesting choice of words. I don’t read you as an emotional person. You seem like a laid-back guy,” Jordan answered.

“I’ve been a mess all week,” I laughed. I didn’t know why I said that. I never would’ve admitted to that out loud, but it didn’t stop there. There was a separation between my mind and body as I spoke. I wanted to stop, but I couldn’t. It kept getting worse until the interviewer turned to the camera and shook his head. He gestured with close, straight fingers back and forth across his throat.

“Cut the cameras… Hey, Lucky. Are you—? Do you need to talk to someone? Like a—. A mental health professional. You just admitted to self-harming on camera…”

I apologized. “I worded that weird. I didn’t—. I’m not hurting myself. I was a little kid when that—. I’m—. I’m on no sleep. I’m sorry. This isn’t me. I’m not—.” My phone vibrated. “This is my friend’s brother. I’m so sorry. I have to take this… Jake?”

“Hey, Lucky. Do you know someone’s circulating audio of your personal conversation about your dad?” Jake questioned.

“Huh?” I asked.

“Hillary, can you pull it up for him?” Jake asked. And then I heard it.

“He’s not being fair,” the recording of me wept, “I love her.”

“No… No one was supposed to—. That was last year… And it wasn’t supposed to be—. Okay… Um, I have to go,” I replied before hanging up. “I’m sorry, Jordan. I—. Something came up.” My head started spinning, and I threw up in the hotel parking lot. Everything piled on all at once. That conversation was one of the last conversations I had with my old manager. I was doing the press circuit with a costar from my last movie. My costar was in her twenties, and we’d developed a close relationship. It border lined on romantic, but it didn’t get farther than a few handwritten notes and some longing glances before my dad found out. He dealt with the issue discreetly, cutting off all contact with her, and I didn’t understand his reasoning. I told my manager about it in confidence. It was a last-ditch effort to salvage (what I now realize was) an inappropriate relationship.

That reveal shattered me. It was supposed to stay private. Dad and I eventually came to an understanding, but this conversation was something I hadn’t mentioned to him.

I was exhausted, and I wasn’t thinking straight. It felt like the end of the world. I went to the hotel and packed my things before heading to the airport. I posted something online, trying to explain what happened and clear things up, but I made everything worse. I wasn’t in the right state of mind to say anything, and as the comments flooded in, I knew I couldn’t fix it. I spent ten hours on the plane, spiraling and typing increasingly frightening and despondent messages.

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bluejaysandblackbats · 1 day

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Five Stages of Mamma Mia

Fandom: Batfam, DC Comics

Summary: AU where Catherine Johnson is Jason's bio mom and Jason doesn't know who his father is. (Jason Todd is Jason Johnson for fic reasons).

Chapters: 10/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Jason Blood, Catherine Todd Mention, Bruce Wayne, Willis Todd Mention

Relationship(s): Past Catherine Todd/Jason Blood, Past Catherine Todd/Bruce Wayne, Past Catherine Todd/Willis Todd

Additional Tags: Canon Divergent AU, Mamma Mia-inspired AU, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Long Lost/Secret Relatives, Father-Son Relationship(s), Jason Todd Experiences the Five Stages of Grief

Chapter Ten: Andante, Andante

Jason showered and slipped into his pajamas while he waited for Bruce to arrive. He felt tired, but he couldn't allow himself to sleep until he apologized to Bruce for how he acted. Catherine hadn't raised him that way, and Mr. Blood wouldn't have raised him that way. Catherine! It occurred to Jason that he still had her diary, and she talked about all three potential fathers. So, he imagined she had much to say about playboy billionaire philanthropist Bruce Wayne. He sat at the edge of his bed and opened the diary. It smelled like her before she got sick. Cinnamon.

31 October 1997

Jason invited me to a masquerade ball. All of Gotham's elite will be there, but I didn't want to go to a party tonight. I stood out like a sore thumb, and everyone looked at me and wondered why I was there. I didn't belong there. But that isn't what's bothering me.

Jason seemed distant, and he disappeared for hours that night. Perhaps he thought it'd be funny to hide from me at a masquerade ball. I didn't find it funny at all. I almost left had it not been for the charms of Mr. Bruce Wayne.

He was sweet —a little too fresh for my taste— but oh boy, was he cute! Bruce held me so tight, but he seemed so vulnerable. Bruce didn't speak much, but his body language told me everything I needed to know. I left with him, and Bruce seemed so lonely as he lay beside me, touching my hair and stroking my cheek. His loneliness filled me, but I couldn't move to leave until Bruce fell asleep. He was so beautiful when he slept.

It wasn't until I left his place that I cried. I could still smell him on my skin and in my hair. I think I loved Jason, but I knew I longed for Bruce. Longing... I finally met someone like me. Someone who wanted as I did. I couldn't have both, though. Could I?

Jason's reading was interrupted by a knock on his bedroom door. "Are you still grumpy?" Mr. Blood teased. Jason left the diary on his bed and opened his door. "Jason, do you want to talk in the library?" He nodded and followed Mr. Blood to the library. He offered Jason his seat, and Bruce stood in the corner of the room, glancing out the window.

"I'm sorry," Jason whispered. Bruce turned to him and smiled. He gestured that it was nothing, and Jason curled up in Mr. Blood's chair.

Bruce opened up the conversation by saying he was sorry for any deception on his part, and Jason forced a smile. After that, Bruce started talking about paternity tests and how long it would take to get the results with the technology in the Batcave. Jason nodded and closed his eyes.

"Jason, you can go to bed if you're tired," Mr. Blood whispered. Jason drowsily shook his head. He couldn't open his eyes even if he tried.

"I'm resting my eyes," Jason mumbled.

Bruce covered his mouth to suppress a laugh. "I was wondering what we'll do if we find out I am your father," Bruce whispered.

Jason took a deep breath, still fighting sleep. "Would I still get to see Mr. Blood whenever I want?" Jason questioned. Mr. Blood looked Bruce in the eye, and he frowned. Mr. Blood imagined Bruce would file for full custody if Jason was his son. Why wouldn't he?

"Of course. I wouldn't want to sever any bonds formed here," Bruce reassured, "Can I ask how many others you have in mind? Or am I the last?"

"Two of three... The third guy might be my dad if you're not. But I'm not gonna change my last name... It's Mom's name," Jason whispered. Mr. Blood draped a blanket over Jason and kissed the top of his head before Jason drifted off to sleep. Mr. Blood moved Jason's hair from his face.

"Jason?" Mr. Blood whispered. Jason didn't answer. "Bruce... Catherine, huh?"

Bruce crossed his arms and grinned. "Yeah... What about you? Was it serious?" Bruce whispered.

"Very," Mr. Blood whispered, "Under normal circumstances, I think I would've married her..."

Bruce frowned. "You weren't with her in October of that year, were you?" Bruce questioned.

"I didn't own her. There's no need for you to feel guilty. How long were you seeing her?" Mr. Blood asked.

"Almost a month. The last time I saw Catherine was on Thanksgiving," Bruce whispered, "You?"

"October to January," Mr. Blood whispered, "Had I known she was pregnant—. I wouldn't have cared that he wasn't mine. But it was for the best when he was so small. It wouldn't have been safe."

"I don't think he likes me much," Bruce whispered.

"He's slow to warm... But you'll grow on him," Mr. Blood whispered, "Let him warm up to you before you rush into a paternity test."

Bruce nodded. "Did he get a ride back?" Bruce questioned.

"No, he walked," Mr. Blood whispered, "He's a tough kid, Bruce, but he's been through so much. He probably needed the air."

They grew silent and watched as Jason sank into the chair, his chest rising with every heavy breath. Mr. Blood never said it out loud, but he liked when Jason slept heavily like that. That's how he knew Jason was okay. Mr. Blood moved to pick Jason up, and Bruce stopped him.

"Would you mind?" Bruce asked. Mr. Blood shook his head.

"Could you lay him on his side? He chokes if you—. Sorry, I sound like—."

"His father? Yeah, well, to Jason, you are," Bruce whispered. He scooped Jason up, and Mr. Blood led him to Jason's bedroom. He pulled the sheets back and allowed Bruce to set Jason down. Bruce pulled the sheets over Jason and smiled. "Do you think he could—?"

"He could be... His dark hair, the frame of his face... But I'm not sure. He could be the mystery man's son too... And given Catherine's obvious type, I'm sure he's living a double life as well," Mr. Blood whispered.

Bruce looked at the open diary on the bed and picked it up to set it on the nightstand. Several pictures fell out of the book, and Bruce crouched down to pick them up. All the photos were of Catherine and the three men. "Him... I know him. He's not-. He's been dead since last year. I didn't remember the name, but his face... I know his face," Bruce whispered.

"So we're all he has," Mr. Blood replied.

"And if I'm not his biological father..." Bruce trailed off and stuffed the photographs into the diary. Mr. Blood pinched the bridge of his nose.

"How will we tell him?" Mr. Blood asked.

"Let's hope we don't have to," Bruce whispered.

#fic #5somm fic #batfam #Jason Todd #Jason Blood #Catherine Todd Mention #Bruce Wayne #Willis Todd Mention #Past Catherine Todd/Jason Blood #Past Catherine Todd/Bruce Wayne #Past Catherine Todd/Willis Todd #Canon Divergent AU #Mamma Mia-inspired AU #Angst #Hurt/Comfort #Long Lost/Secret Relatives #Father-Son Relationship(s)#Jason Todd Experiences the Five Stages of Grief

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bluejaysandblackbats · 2 days

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To Touch Fate

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam

Summary: Jason attempts to settle down in Southern Italy and live a civilian life.

Chapters: 17/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Original Character(s), Bruce Wayne, Terry McGinnis, Matt McGinnis

Relationships: Jason Todd/Original Character(s)

Additional Tags: Angst, Jason Todd-centric, Jason Todd is a Father, Terry McGinnis is Batman, Retirement, Future Fic, Major Original Character(s)

Chapter Seventeen: After Mass

Domenico slept curled up under Angelo’s arm in the hospital bed while Jason stared at the monitor. “Giasone, good morning. I thought you’d need this,” one of the nurses whispered. She gave him a coffee.

“Thank you, Carina. Did the doctor say anything?” Jason questioned.

“Bacterial pneumonia… It’s not common this time of year, but it happens,” Carina replied, “Brandi’s coming to start him on antibiotics… I’m here to check on you for Doctor di Giovanni. She’s worried about you.”

“Noemi called you?” Jason asked. Carina nodded.

“Yes, she did. She said you were upset when you left—.”

Jason’s phone rang. “Sorry… It’s Emi and the kids,” Jason apologized. Carina touched his shoulder and left.

“Hello?” Jason answered. He heard the girls and Dario sobbing in the background. “What’s wrong with the kids?”

“Give me some good news. The kids think Angelo’s dying,” Noemi replied.

“Angelo has pneumonia… He’ll be fine once he gets some fluids and antibiotics. Brandi’s going to do the IV for him when she gets here,” Jason answered, “Put me on speaker. I want to talk to the kids.”

“Papá wants to talk to you all,” Noemi whispered.

“Hi… Babies. Kids. Angelo’s sleeping, but he’s about to get some medicine. Domenico’s taking good care of him until the nurse gets here. Do you remember Zia Brandi?” Jason asked.

“Zia Brandi’s gonna fix Angelo?” Dario asked.

“Yeah. Zia Brandi—. Here she is right now. Hold on,” Jason whispered, “Brandi, can you say hello to the kids?”

“Hi, piccoli. I’d love to talk, but I have to give Angioletto his medicine ,” Brandi replied as she turned toward Angelo and set up his IV. “ Giasone, I’ll be back in an hour… His oxygen was low, but I think he’ll wake once discomfort subsides. Have a good morning.”

Jason thanked her. “Papá, why did Dom get to go?” Cecelia asked.

“Domonic was awake and dressed. We might be home later today, but I want everyone to get dressed for mass, and then I want everyone doing homework, studying, or honing a skill for thirty minutes. Then, the day is yours. Okay?” Jason commanded gently.

“Papá? Will you call us when Angelo wakes up?” Katerina asked.

“Yeah, of course. Don’t worry about that. I’ll call Mamma’s phone as soon as he wakes up. I love you all. Save a hug and a kiss for us,” Jason whispered, “Bye-bye.”

They all said their goodbyes. After he hung up, Jason drank his coffee and took a picture of his sleeping sons to send to Noemi. Domenico smacked his lips as he snuggled closer to his older brother. Domenico slept for another half hour while Jason watched them. Jason hadn’t slept in twenty-four hours, and it wore on his emotions. Domenico sat up, rubbed his eyes, and climbed out of the bed. He sat on Jason’s knee, and Jason wrapped his arms around Domenico. “Did you sleep, Papá?” Domenico mumbled. Jason shook his head. “You can sleep now. I’ll watch him.” Jason’s lips twitched into a smile.

“It’s not your—.”

“Papá, you’re tired. You can go to sleep. I’ll wake you up if anything happens. I promise,” Domenico insisted. Jason nodded and pulled his chair to the hospital bed before leaning over it and falling asleep. Domenico read in a whisper tone while Angelo and Jason slept.

*

A different nurse came and messed up Domenico’s hair after a few hours. “You look so much like your papá,” she smiled. Domenico nodded.

“Zia Bella? What’s in those bags?” Domenico asked.

“Fluids and medicine. Once Angelo gets enough of both, he should get better,” Bella replied. Domenico nodded. “What are you reading?”

“The Last Day of a Condemned Man,” Domenico answered.

“Oh… Isn’t that a little grim to read to your brother?” Bella questioned.

Domenico shook his head. “It’s Angelo’s book… He made me read it to explain why it isn’t just. They still have the death penalty in the United States… But they don’t execute their most powerful criminals. Not even the most vile ones,” Domenico explained, “I still disagree with him. Every case has its exceptions… Maybe here. Maybe not, but I know America had criminals that were too dangerous to continue living.”

Angelo groaned. “When we execute our criminals, what sets us apart from them? The legality of it all? You have so much to learn, fratellino,” Angelo mumbled. Bella chuckled and shook her head.

“Angioletto… Welcome to the world of the living,” Bella grinned. Domenico leaned forward to wake Jason, and Angelo shook his head.

“I promised I’d wake Papá if anything changed,” Domenico whispered.

“What happened?” Angelo questioned.

“Papá was worried sick. I promised him I’d wake him,” Domenico replied as he nudged Jason. “Papá… Angelo’s awake.”

Jason sat up and met eyes with Angelo. A rough sound escaped Jason’s throat like a cough, and tears streamed down his cheeks. He held Angelo’s face in his hands. “How are you, Angioletto? I was worried about you,” Jason smiled.

Angelo grinned at his father. “I’ve been better… But it could be worse. Do I have pants on?” Angelo asked. Domenico nodded.

“Summer shorts. And a hospital gown,” Domenico whispered, “Why?”

“I have to go to the bathroom,” Angelo answered.

“Can you stand up? I want you to take it easy—.”

“The bathroom is fifteen feet from my bed,” Angelo interrupted, “ I’ll be alright, Papá .” Angelo slowly climbed out of bed. Domenico instinctively reached out to grab his hand. Angelo shook his head. “I’m fine. I’m good.”

Jason texted Noemi and told her Angelo woke up, and she replied with a Facetime call. Jason answered, and all the children sat crowded around her. “Where’s Angelo?” Claudia asked. Domenico leaned over Jason’s shoulder.

“You just missed him. He’ll be right back,” Domenico answered.

Angelo returned a moment later, heavily breathing as he sat on his bed. Everyone grew silent. “Did I miss mass?” Angelo asked once he caught his breath.

“The power of repentance,” Katerina replied, “Father Simone spoke about Paul.”

“I hate that I missed it,” Angelo whispered. Dario sucked his thumb as he looked down. “Hi, Dario.”

“Angelo? Are you tired? ” Dario asked.

Angelo bounced his head from side to side. “ Hmm… A little. But I’m not sleepy. I slept all night ,” Angelo whispered. Jason clipped the heart monitor onto Angelo’s finger. “ Papá. I’m—.”

“Let me worry… It’s my job,” Jason interrupted, “We’ll call you later… Okay? Say bye-bye.”

“Bye-bye!” they shouted. Jason, Domenico, and Angelo waved.

Domenico climbed into Angelo’s hospital bed with him, and Angelo smiled. “You’re too young to understand The Last Day of a Condemned Man—.”

“I understand it… And I don’t agree with you or Victor Hugo. What do you think, Papá?” Domenico asked.

“I’m biased, but every system has its flaws. We must accept that no matter what system we implement… Someone will suffer. Thorough detective work and evidence sometimes aren’t enough to deem whether or not someone is guilty or innocent, then there are the court systems and prison systems… I’ve seen cases where all the evidence pointed to a specific person who turned out to be framed by an intelligent and manipulative criminal,” Jason explained, “So, you’re both right and wrong. That’s how things are. As right as you may think you are, there’s always a case where you’re wrong.” Domenico and Angelo nodded, swallowing Jason’s words.

#fic #to touch fate fic #batfam #batman beyond au #Jason Todd #Original Character(s)#Bruce Wayne #Terry McGinnis #Matt McGinnis #Jason Todd/Original Character(s)#Angst #Jason Todd-centric #Jason Todd is a Father #Terry McGinnis is Batman #Retirement #Future Fic #Major Original Character(s)

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bluejaysandblackbats · 2 days

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Reblog so everyone can hear what they need.

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The Spin Out

Fandom: Batman, DC Comics

Summary: Jason Todd returns to Gotham after three years for the final time to win enough money to pay off Sheila’s debts.

Chapters: 5/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Sheila Haywood, Original Character(s), Bruce Wayne

Relationships: Jason Todd/Original Character

Additional Tags: Street Racing AU, No Capes AU, Jason Todd-centric, Hurt Jason Todd, Bad Parent Sheila Haywood, Bruce Wayne Tries to Be a Good Parent, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Communicating, Bruce Wayne is Bad at Feelings, Hurt/Comfort, Organized Crime, Jason Todd has Trust Issues, Jason Todd is Not Okay, Good Person Jason Todd, Stalker Bruce Wayne, Secret Identities, Secrets, Angst

Chapter Five: Noise

Jason worked until six-thirty and watched Honey lock up. “You’re not bad… You’ll make assistant manager in no time—.”

“Oh, I don’t plan on staying long. This is a summer gig,” Jason interrupted. Honey looked at him.

“An eighteen-year-old kid uprooting his whole life to work at a garage in Gotham? What’s your deal?” Honey asked.

“Financial trouble… And my friend helped me get a job here,” Jason replied, “And rent is dirt cheap, so I can save more money.”

“We have dinner at someone’s house once a week, and this week it’s Morgan’s if you’d like to come tonight,” Honey suggested.

“I would love to, but I made plans with someone tonight. Thank you, though. I appreciate that you invited me,” Jason smiled as he grabbed his helmet. “And thank you for being so patient with me.”

“You didn’t require any patience. You work faster than people who’ve been here for years. See you at noon,” Honey reassured him. Jason smiled.

“See you tomorrow, Honey,” Jason replied. Jason hopped on his bike, put his helmet on, and rode home.

He took his coveralls in the doorway and tossed them in the hamper before taking the note out of his sock. “Dear Jay, this time with you has been an adventure. I can’t wait to have you in the sunlight where you glimmer and gleam. Things will be different someday. We’ll settle in a place with a warm climate, and you’ll be happy. I know you don’t belong in Gotham. You shine too brightly for the grim and grey darkness of that city.

“My sweet boy. Until then, we live like outlaws. Love, Mommy,” Jason read the note aloud. He hated when she used that word, but he didn’t have the heart to tell her. Outlaws. He didn’t leave Gotham to live the life of a criminal, bouncing from country to country, and never settling anywhere.

He showered and changed into a striped t-shirt and loose-fitting jeans. He didn’t bother with his hair. Jason lit a cigarette and smoked on the fire escape. His phone rang. “Hi, Uncle Jeremy,” Jason whispered. He blew smoke through his nose.

“How was your first day?” Jeremy asked.

“It was alright. The garage is nicer than some of the ones I worked in. I’m shadowing a lady named Honey, and she’s nice,” Jason replied.

“Pretty?” Jeremy asked.

“Oh… Um… I don’t have a crush on her, but I guess she’s pretty,” Jason answered. “Um… I’m gonna pick something up tomorrow at the store before dinner. What do the kids like?”

“Jace you don’t have to—.”

“Please,” Jason interrupted.

“Brownies… No nuts, though. No one’s allergic. We don’t like ‘em,” Jeremy replied. Jason smiled.

“Cool, I can do that,” Jason replied, “And Uncle Jeremy?”

“Yeah?” Jeremy questioned.

“I—. When should I start worrying about nightmares?” Jason asked.

“You’re having nightmares again?” Jeremy questioned. Jason made a soft noise.

“Jace, can I ask you what your nightmares are about?”

“Um… I—. I don’t know,” Jason mumbled. A lie.

“How often are you having them? If it’s on and off every once in a while—.”

“I’m having nightmares every night… Whenever I close my eyes. It started happening two weeks ago,” Jason explained.

“And you don’t know what the nightmares are about?” Jeremy questioned. Jason didn’t answer. “You don’t have to tell me what they’re about if it makes you feel better.”

“I know what they’re about… I haven’t had dreams like this ever,” Jason replied, “And I can’t help but feel like something’s wrong with me… Something—.”

“Jason, do you wanna come by? Wanna talk face-to-face?” Jeremy interrupted. Jason took a long drag from his cigarette and choked. “Jason, what are you doing?”

“Standing on the fire escape, having a ciggie,” Jason answered. He took another drag, blew out air, and spat.

“A ciggie… I see your six months in Australia didn’t change you,” Jeremy teased. Jason chuckled. “Wanna come over? You don’t have to meet anyone—.”

“That’d be rude. I can’t—. I can’t do that. Thank you, though. Thanks, Uncle Jeremy,” Jason stammered, “I’ll be there for dinner tomorrow night, but I think—. I’m gonna take a ride to clear my head.”

“Okay. Be safe, Kiddo… And get something to eat,” Jeremy whispered, “If you change your mind, you can stop by any time.”

“Thanks, and I will,” Jason sighed as he put out his cigarette in the ashtray on the windowsill. “I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“Sounds good. I look forward to seeing you, too,” Jeremy replied. Jason hung up, grabbing his jacket and helmet on his way out. He drove to a club in the diamond district. They let him in, and he ordered a drink at the bar. The noise canceled out his thoughts.

“Vodka soda on the rocks, please,” Jason requested. It’d been two years. Twenty-six months since Jason stepped foot in Gotham. He remembered his last week there in flashes. Arguments. Spinning out on empty roads. Clutching his birth certificate on the plane ride to Ethiopia. He didn’t say goodbye.

It didn’t take Jason long to get drunk. He didn’t drink often, so his tolerance was low. Jason found himself on the dancefloor. He glanced at his phone, realizing that he’d lost an hour. He felt hands travel up his chest and underneath his shirt. He removed the hands and left the club without looking back. He didn’t drive. He couldn’t. He called Jeremy. “Hey, Kid,” Jeremy whispered, “You okay?”

“Can ya come gemme?” Jason slurred.

“Oh, god… Okay—.”

“I’m sorry,” Jason mumbled with tears in his eyes.

“It’s—.”

“I’m sorry, Uncle Jermy,” Jason cried, “I dun’—.”

“Hey, it’s okay. I’m not mad. Send me your location... And while you do that, can you tell me what happened?” Jeremy asked.

Jason staggered toward the trash can and threw up. “Michael?” Jeremy asked.

“I feel sick… I wanna go home,” Jason muttered as he clumsily sent Jeremy his location.

“I’ll get you. Stay on the phone… Talk to me,” Jeremy requested. Jason made a soft noise. “It’s good to be close to family when things like this happen. I was much worse when I was your age. I remember when your dad had to swim to save me because I jumped off a bridge in my skivvies. I was half-frozen and bruised from smacking the water… Actually… Willis and I were pretty tight back then.” Jeremy chuckled.

“When?” Jason asked.

“Hm… I think—. Oh, that’s right! I was sixteen, so it was a year before you came along. It was one of the last times we hung out,” Jeremy answered, “He must’ve chewed me out the whole way home. Sheila was at work, so he let me borrow some of his clothes, and I stayed the night. I remember because he had Seven on VHS.”

Jason’s breathing slowed as he wiped his eyes. “I’ve never seen it,” Jason replied.

“We should watch it sometime,” Jeremy replied, “I think your old man would’ve liked us to be close.”

“You think so?” Jason asked.

“Mhm… Are you alright? I’m almost there,” Jeremy stated coolly.

“Uh-huh. Uncle Juh—.” Jason gagged. “Uncle Jeremy, are you sure you’re not mad?”

“I’m not mad at you… You’re my only nephew. You were right to call me,” Jeremy replied.

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bluejaysandblackbats · 3 days

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Five Stages of Mamma Mia

Fandom: Batfam, DC Comics

Summary: AU where Catherine Johnson is Jason's bio mom and Jason doesn't know who his father is. (Jason Todd is Jason Johnson for fic reasons).

Chapters: 9/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Jason Blood, Catherine Todd Mention, Bruce Wayne, Willis Todd Mention

Relationship(s): Past Catherine Todd/Jason Blood, Past Catherine Todd/Bruce Wayne, Past Catherine Todd/Willis Todd

Additional Tags: Canon Divergent AU, Mamma Mia-inspired AU, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Long Lost/Secret Relatives, Father-Son Relationship(s), Jason Todd Experiences the Five Stages of Grief

Chapter Nine: Why Did It Have To Be Me? (Anger)

Jason finished the school year with Mr. Blood, but on the first night of summer vacation, he decided he could no longer push off meeting with Bruce Wayne. He closed his eyes and replicated the illusion spell Mr. Blood taught him so that it looked like he was sound asleep in his bed. Jason knew Bruce Wayne would be hosting a gala, and it would be easier to get into his house. It took him twenty minutes to get there by cab, and he waited in the shadows for a limo to enter the gate before creeping alongside it.

He ran to the service entrance, tried the door, and used a spell to unlock it. His hands shook as he searched through the manor. A cacophony of laughter and voices carried above the live band, leading Jason straight to the ballroom. He pushed through the crowd, trying to get close to Bruce Wayne. Before he could reach the man, he was swept off the ground by the back of his collar, choking him as he let out a panicked, "Mr. Wayne! I have to talk-. " Jason struggled with the buttons at his neck.

"Put him down! You're hurting him!" Bruce Wayne chastised the man. The security guard attempted to say something, but he was immediately cut off. "Yes, because I'm sure a four-foot-tall child is a huge threat to a man my size." Jason struggled to catch his breath as Bruce Wayne approached, crouching in front of him to fix the boy's clothes. "I'm so sorry about that. Are you alright?" Jason nodded before swallowing hard.

"I need to talk to you, Mr. Wayne. It's important," Jason pleaded. Jason's hands shook so violently that he wrung them to keep Bruce Wayne from noticing.

"Call me Bruce... And, of course, we can talk. Perhaps someplace quieter?" Bruce whispered. With a simple gesture from Bruce, the party resumed.

Jason nodded and allowed Bruce to escort him out of the ballroom and into his library. Jason paced around the room, trying to calm himself. "Mr. Wayne-. Bruce... I think you might be my father," Jason announced. Bruce started choking. "Bruce?"

"I thought-. Candace nine years ago?" Bruce questioned.

"I'm almost thirteen," Jason replied. Bruce chewed his lip as he looked Jason over.

"When were you born?" Bruce asked. Jason handed Bruce his birth certificate and a picture of Catherine. "Catherine Johnson... Oh, she was-." Bruce's face reddened as he stopped himself from finishing that sentence. Jason didn't seem to notice.

Jason looked down at his feet, and Bruce returned the boy's birth certificate and picture. "I get the feeling I wasn't the first man on your list," Bruce whispered. Jason shook his head.

"I still live with him... He doesn't live too far from here... But I'm not here to make you be my father if you don't wanna be. I only wanna be sure," Jason whispered, "That's all I want."

Bruce offered Jason a seat. "Are you hungry?" Bruce asked. Jason shrugged. "It's alright. If I can feed a whole ballroom full of drunk rich people, I don't think it'll be a stretch to feed you."

"Okay," Jason whispered. Bruce told him to wait there and left Jason alone in the library. It was much larger than Mr. Blood's library. His house didn't have the same comforting smell and felt less homey than Mr. Blood's place. Bruce returned with a metal cloche on a platter and lifted the cloche to reveal a bowl of soup and bread with assorted cheeses. Jason snacked on the bread at first while Bruce stared at him. "You can ask me anything..."

"How long have you been looking?" Bruce questioned.

"Since my mom passed this February... It'll be four months in twelve days," Jason replied, "Bruce... I don't want to be an inconvenience."

"Oh no, I was bored to death in there... And you're much more interesting than the people at this party. Trust me," Bruce smiled, "Can I ask the name of the man you're staying with? He must be worried sick about you." Jason stopped eating.

"I don't want you to call him. I don't want him to know I'm gone. I was going back home to him after I talked to you-."

"Jason, I won't call him if you don't want me to, but I would like to know where I'm dropping off my potential son at the end of the night," Bruce whispered. Jason sighed and nodded.

"Jason Blood," Jason answered.

Bruce nodded and stared at Jason for a long time before asking his next question. "I have to ask. Can you tell me about what you've been through since February? This must've been a lot of stress on one twelve-year-old kid," Bruce whispered. Jason took a deep breath and told Bruce about his mother's diary and finding Mr. Blood, but he was careful to leave out details like Etrigan and why he ran away from home when he was kidnapped. He didn't lie, but he withheld certain dangerous truths out of fear that Bruce wouldn't understand.

Bruce didn't seem phased by any of it. "Oh! And I made the honor roll," Jason announced. Bruce smiled.

"Wow, that's pretty impressive," Bruce replied as he ate a cube of cheese with a toothpick.

"You didn't even flinch when I told you about being kidnapped," Jason whispered as it occurred to him. He blocked the top half of Bruce's face from his vision. "Ba-."

"Jason," Bruce interrupted. He shook his head. "I can-."

"So it's true," Jason whispered, "And you were gonna pretend you never met me?" Jason stood up.

Bruce reached for Jason's arm. "Jason, wait-." Jason recoiled.

"Don't touch me," Jason hissed as he left the library and let himself out of the way he came. Bruce tried to chase after him, but Jason threatened to scream if he came near him. He wanted to believe he was angry at Bruce for lying. But maybe Jason just needed a reason to reject him. Jason had tears in his eyes as he walked down the road. Something about Bruce frightened him more than it angered him. He didn't reach home until close to sunrise, and he was met at the porch by an enraged Mr. Blood.

"Where have you been? I've been worried-."

"I don't want to go with him," Jason cried. Mr. Blood knit his brows before softening his demeanor and holding Jason in a comforting embrace.

"Where have you been all night?" Mr. Blood questioned, lowering his voice significantly. "Why are you wearing a suit?"

"I went to Bruce Wayne's house," Jason replied. Mr. Blood nodded, chewing his lip as he took Jason inside.

"You know everything, don't you?" Mr. Blood whispered. Jason nodded.

"He was there that night, wasn't he?" Jason asked. "He's Batman..." Mr. Blood nodded. "Why did he pretend like he didn't know me? Are any of you normal? No offense."

"None taken... And I really wish you would've spoken to me first. I would've told you everything, and-. Don't be upset with Bruce. He's a kind man... And if he is your father, I know he'd lavish you with love and affection," Mr. Blood reassured Jason. "I think he'd be a little more equipped for childrearing than I am."

"But-."

"Are you angry with Bruce or afraid to leave me?" Mr. Blood asked. Jason turned away from Mr. Blood to go to his room, and Mr. Blood grabbed his arm. He crouched down and looked Jason in the eyes. "Don't run from the truth because it's not what you imagined. I am not your biological father... And that's okay. Or at least it will be. As I told you, you will always be partly mine, but you have to be open to being someone else's now. That doesn't mean you're losing a parent... You might be gaining one. Hell, you might gain a few."

"Three months is a long-." The house phone rang, and Jason turned to run off. Mr. Blood gestured for him to stay put while he grabbed the phone from the living room.

"Hello? Yes, he's home safe... I'm speaking to him right now... I think that's fine," Mr. Blood whispered.

Jason leaned against the wall and crossed his arms. Mr. Blood stood next to Jason, playfully squeezing his nose. "Oh, no, he's just grumpy... It'll be alright. See you soon." Mr. Blood hung up and stood near Jason, making playfully intense eye contact. "You're so pouty today," Mr. Blood whispered.

"Why did you invite him to come here?" Jason whined.

"Because he's my friend, and I want to talk to him about you. You don't have to be present for the conversation, but I can imagine you wouldn't like us talking about you behind your back," Mr. Blood whispered, "If you choose to join us, please be polite. I have a lot of respect and admiration for this man."

Jason sighed and nodded. He knew Mr. Blood was right about the source of his anger. Jason didn't want to leave his new home. He adored Mr. Blood and appreciated his patience. It could've easily become an argument between them, but Mr. Blood knew him well.

#fic #batfam #5somm fic #Jason Todd #Jason Blood #Catherine Todd Mention #Bruce Wayne #Willis Todd Mention #Past Catherine Todd/Jason Blood #Past Catherine Todd/Bruce Wayne #Past Catherine Todd/Willis Todd #Canon Divergent AU #Mamma Mia-inspired AU #Angst #Hurt/Comfort #Long Lost/Secret Relatives #Father-Son Relationship(s)#Jason Todd Experiences the Five Stages of Grief

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bluejaysandblackbats · 3 days

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Ango (Dwelling in Peace)

Fandom: DC Comics, Arrowfam

Summary: A young Connor Hawke spends the summer with Oliver Queen after an accident at the monastery.

Chapters: 4/?

Characters: Connor Hawke, Sandra Moonday Hawke, Oliver Queen, Dinah Lance, Roy Harper

Relationships: Oliver Queen/Dinah Lance

Additional Tags: Father-Son Relationship, POV Oliver Queen, Child Conor Hawke, No Capes AU

Chapter Four: Lojong (cleansing of attitudes)

“Dinah, I haven’t even—. I haven’t told Roy about Connor. I haven’t told Connor about Roy-. This—.”

“How long have you known about your son?” Dinah interrupted.

“The whole time… I knew the entire time,” I confessed. Dinah leaned forward, hiding her face in her palms as she sighed and cursed. “And how do I explain it to Connor? It’s not like I planned on Roy. It’s not like I planned either of them.”

Dinah scoffed. “Yeah. Poor you. Poor, Ollie. Roy and Connor just happened to you. You didn’t ask to be a parent. So, why should anyone expect you to act like one?” Dinah asked. I scratched the back of my neck. “You’re not a kid anymore, Ollie. You’re a grown man with a family. You’ve got two sons, and you need to start acting like it. Stop being so damn selfish.”

She stood up to leave, and I grabbed her wrist. “Don’t leave angry—.”

“Ollie, I gotta go. Let go of my arm,” Dinah warned me. I let go and watched her leave. I tried not to dwell on it, but it ate at me. I returned to Connor’s room and sat beside him on his mattress. He woke up shivering and lay on my lap.

“Connor, I um—. I have another kid. He’s around your age and out with his friends for the summer,” I took a breath, “His name is Roy Harper. He um—. I adopted him about a year ago.”

Connor rolled off my lap and turned, facing the wall. “You never wanted me—.”

“Connor, that’s—. I didn’t even ask—. Roy didn’t have anyone else, and I made his father—. His other adoptive father a promise that I’d look after him—.”

“You didn’t tell me before because you knew I’d feel rejected. I’m upset, but I have to forgive you. I’ll feel better if I forgive you, but I don’t know how you’ll feel,” Connor replied, “Something is holding you back. I don’t know what it is, but you’re hurting the people around you. So, that has to come from a place of pain or fear. You aren’t bad, but you make yourself seem that way.”

I couldn’t be angry with him because of his gentle sincerity. “I’m so sorry, Connor. Do you want me to be honest with you?” I questioned. I wanted him to look at me. My pride wouldn’t allow me to let Connor give up on me. I didn’t want to be a lost cause.

Connor made a soft noise. “Okay,” Connor replied.

“I didn’t know what I’d do with a kid… And you weren’t just a kid. You were a baby, Connor. To be fair, I’m not convinced that I know what I’m doing with Roy. I thought you’d be better off with one good parent than a—. Well… With me,” I confessed, “I wanted you to have a fair shake at being normal… And I didn’t want to be responsible for—. I didn’t want to be responsible.”

“Why did you come this time? If you didn’t want—.”

“I was curious. I wanted to know how it would feel to see you,” I interrupted.

It was so tense in the room. I couldn’t bear to be there, but I stayed. Connor stared at me with his sweet green eyes. “Do you regret seeing me?” Connor asked.

I swallowed hard. “Yes, because—. Because I enjoy your company. We’re nothing alike, but I like you so much. And I don’t know what to do with that. I never imagined we’d get along so well, and I’m so sorry, Connor. I’m sorry that I didn’t explain this to you earlier. I’m sorry that I wasn’t—. I’m sorry for everything. I don’t know if you should forgive me. Hell, I wouldn’t—. I wouldn’t forgive me,” I stammered.

“You’re right,” Connor whispered, “We aren’t alike.” And then he grabbed the bottom of my shirt and shut his eyes. “Dad, I’m cold.”

I sniffed as tears welled up in my eyes. I couldn’t stop them once they were there. They kept coming, streaming down my face as I pulled the quilt over Connor’s shoulders. “I can get you another blanket,” I offered.

“No, thank you. I’d like it better if you stayed… And Dad? Thank you for not saying it,” Connor whispered. I scrunched down until I lay beside him, silently waiting for him to explain.

When he didn’t, I cleared my throat to conceal my tears. “Not saying what?” I asked.

“You didn’t want mom to have me,” Connor replied. I inhaled through my nose.

It’s funny. I had all sorts of horrible apprehensive thoughts when it came to being a parent, but not once had I wished he didn’t exist. I didn’t regret that. I regretted the circumstances, and I hated the person I was and feared parenthood in every aspect, but I never thought for a second that he shouldn’t be born. In fact… I thought there should be more people like him. Gentle people in a harsh world.

I wanted to seem standoffish, but he hit my heart. It was like he knew where to aim in his search for the truth. Bullseye. “That’s the furthest thing from the truth,” I mumbled. Connor sat up and looked at me.

“You’re crying… Did I say something—?”

“It’s alright. I’m alright. I just—. I’m glad you’re here, Connor. It’s been weird so far and painfully awkward, but I needed this. I needed you here with me this summer,” I mumbled.

“Thank you for coming to get me. You didn’t have to. Mom would’ve come if you insisted on staying away from me. I think your curiosity and kindness are the same,” Connor whispered. I smiled.

“I can be better than this, you know… I wanna do better, and I want you to tell me when I suck at this,” I replied, “Do we have a deal?”

“Can I meet Roy?” Connor asked.

“Um… Sure, but you’ll have to give me time to explain it to Roy,” I replied, “His trip with his friends is almost over with. Give me a day or two.”

“Okay. Are you going to stay after I fall asleep?” Connor questioned.

“Uh-huh. I’m not going anywhere,” I whispered. I shut my eyes and wiped my face as I tried to get some shut-eye. I stirred once the phone rang.

“Hello?” I answered.

“How’s Connor?” Sandra asked.

“Um… Connor is—. He has a fever, but other than that, he’s okay. He’s sleeping,” I replied. I heard Sandra sigh over the phone. I wasn’t sure if she was angry or relieved.

“Do you want me to come and get him?” Sandra asked.

“No. I need to see this through for the summer, at least. I wanna spend some time with him. Does he know how to ride a bike?” I asked.

“Yeah… Oliver, I—. I’ll have some time off in July. Do you mind if I come and see him?” Sandra asked.

“He’s your son too… And I think—. Connor’d be happy to see you,” I replied, “I’ll give him a kiss for you.”

“Thanks, Ollie,” Sandra smiled.

“No problem,” I whispered. She said goodbye and hung up. Connor mumbled something. “What was that?”

“Who was that?” Connor replied.

“Your mom wanted to know how you were doing. Do you feel better?” I asked as I felt his forehead. Connor grabbed my wrist.

“Are you going to send me away?” Connor asked.

“Nope. You’re stuck with me for the summer,” I answered. Connor smiled and shut his eyes. He slept until lunchtime.

#fic #adip fic #arrowfam #Connor Hawke #Sandra Moonday Hawke #Oliver Queen #Dinah Lance #Roy Harper #Oliver Queen/Dinah Lance #Father-Son Relationship #POV Oliver Queen #Child Conor Hawke #No Capes AU

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bluejaysandblackbats · 4 days

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By LabradoriteKing on Pinterest

#writing reference

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bluejaysandblackbats · 4 days

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In The Soup

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam, Superfam

Summary: Jason Lives AU where he and Superboy become friends, despite Bruce's disapproval of Superboy. (ft. Jason's service dog, Gromit)

Chapters: 9/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth, Barbara Gordon, Conner Kent, Roxy Leech, Rex Leech

Relationships: TBA

Additional Tag: Jason Todd Lives, Jason Todd Has Chronic Pain, Jason Todd Has PTSD, Conner Kent is Superboy, Good Friend Jason Todd, Protective Jason Todd, Overprotective Bruce Wayne, Barbara Gordon is Oracle, Disabled Characters, Jason Todd & Bruce Wayne Get Along, Good Parent Bruce Wayne, Developing Friendships, Sneaking Around, Disguise, Fluff and Humor, Secret Messages, Hiding in Plain Sight

Chapter Nine: Pho

Jason let his fingers dance through the mess of curls on his lap. Conner’s weight wasn’t suffocating like most things were. Conner woke up and lay in place. “Hey,” Jason whispered, “Hey…

“Are you okay?” Conner murmured, almost purring at the sensation of fingers in his hair.

Jason made a soft noise. “My head hurts, but that’s normal. My dad’s gonna be pissed that I trashed my chair… But then again, he might not find out if I can replace it before he gets home,” Jason mumbled. “Oh crap, I’m—. Sorry, the pain medication always makes me weird. Why am I touching you?” Jason removed his hand from Conner’s hair as his face went red-hot.

Conner didn’t budge. “You don’t have to stop… It was nice,” Conner mumbled. Jason hesitated before returning to Conner’s hair. “Should you call your dad?”

“No… I don’t want Bruce to be worried. No use in both of us being worried about each other,” Jason answered without thinking.

“He’s your dad, though,” Conner whispered. Jason nodded.

“I know, but—. I don’t like to make him worry if it isn’t serious. I’ll heal… Probably before he gets home. He doesn’t have to know,” Jason half-pleaded. A knock on the door startled them both.

“Jason, can we come in?” Barbara asked. Conner sat up, and Jason told Barbara to enter. Gromit rushed to Jason’s side, and Jason giggled.

“Gromit. Hey buddy. Did you eat?” Jason asked as he leaned forward to receive an affectionate kiss on the cheek from Gromit. “Hi, sweet boy. I missed you too.”

“Jason, your left wrist is only sprained,” Barbara announced.

“I figured. You didn’t tell Bruce, did you?” Jason asked.

“No, but this is why I talked to you about the other thing yesterday—.”

“And I said okay,” Jason interrupted.

Jason reached out with his uninjured arm, and Barbara squeezed his hand. “I’m gonna sign you out. Get dressed, and I’ll wait for you. I’ll take both of you kids home,” Barbara whispered, “I brought you a change of clothes.” Barbara gave Jason a bag.

Jason removed the hospital gown and pulled his shirt out of the bag. Jason fastened the magnetic buttons with his uninjured hand. Conner sat with his face hidden in his arms. Jason figured it was out of respect for him while he got dressed. Jason pushed the blankets aside and finished getting dressed. “Conner, I’m done getting dressed. You can look now,” I replied.

“Okay… Sorry, I don’t—. You didn’t ask me to leave,” Conner stammered.

“I didn’t wanna be alone,” Jason explained. Gromit whined. “No offense, Gromit. I love you, but sometimes a guy needs a human friend to talk to.” Jason scratched under Gromit’s chin.

Jason put a foot down and shifted his weight. Gromit took his place at Jason’s side. Jason winced and clutched his ribs on one side. “Jason—.”

“I’m fine. I mean-. It could’ve been worse if you weren’t there,” Jason interrupted. He stood, wavering before grabbing the support handle attached to Gromit’s harness. Conner stood up, making sure Jason was okay. “It’s the medication… That’s all. I’m just dizzy.” Jason shut his eyes, breathing through his nose. “You can never get used to how the hospitals dope you up. Hungry? We could stop and get some pho on the way home.” Jason laughed.

“You still wanna hang out with me?” Conner asked.

“Yeah… Do you?” Jason questioned.

“Chicken or beef?” Conner smiled. Jason chuckled.

“Beef, definitely,” Jason chuckled. Conner held the door and followed him.

“Did you guys eat dinner last night?” Barbara asked as she led them to the car.

“Nope,” Jason replied before groaning. “My meds—.”

“Got you covered. Also, I have you covered on the chair too… But you owe Gromit a movie. He didn’t get to finish The Curse of the Were-Rabbit,” Barbara interrupted.

“Gromit, that’s our movie,” Jason whined. Gromit kissed his cheek. “Oh, flattery will get you everywhere. I forgive you, sweet boy.” Conner chuckled.

“What do you guys wanna eat? We can eat anything as long as I don’t have to cook,” Barbara replied.

Jason lay back and shut his eyes. Conner answered Barbara’s question, and she took them to the restaurant. Jason leaned forward, breathing heavily, and Gromit lay over his lap to support him. “Is he asleep?” Barbara asked.

“Mhm,” Conner answered.

*

Jason slept most of the afternoon, waking to eat or tell Conner he felt fine. He lied. Gromit curled up beside him, keeping watch. “Gromit would tell us if something was wrong with him,” Barbara whispered. Conner nodded. “Are you alright?”

“I’m practically invulnerable—.”

“Emotionally, Conner. What’s going on up there?” Barbara asked.

Conner shrugged. “Don’t know… I guess it doesn’t matter because he’s okay now,” Conner replied.

“It matters,” Barbara interrupted.

Gromit tugged at Conner’s pants leg, and Conner followed him to the bedroom. Jason gasped for air, kicking and clawing at nothing. Conner listened to Jason’s heart and lungs and didn’t hear a disturbance, so he sat the sleeping boy up, allowing Jason to rest on his shoulder. Conner rubbed his back, gently humming so Jason could feel the vibration. He continued until Jason went limp in his arms, and he gently laid Jason back on his pillow. “It’s okay, Gromit,” Conner whispered. Jason curled into a ball, and Gromit took his place on the bed. Conner stayed behind, watching Jason until he fell asleep as well. Jason woke up, confused by Conner’s presence but not alarmed. He grabbed the back of Conner’s sweatshirt and pulled him away from the bed’s edge, wrapping his injured arm around his chest because he wasn’t strong enough to do it on his own. Gromit helped, and Conner rolled onto his back. Jason hesitated before letting go of Conner’s torso and scratched behind Gromit’s ears.

“I’m not lonely, Gromit,” Jason mumbled. Gromit’s ears perked up. “Oh, don’t do that. Whatever happened, you could’ve handled—.”

Conner sharply inhaled and stretched out. “Jason, I’m—.”

“Conner, it’s late. You can apologize all you want to, but-. I’m tired, and it’s cold,” Jason mumbled as he rolled toward the wall and let Conner climb under the blankets. Jason was ice cold next to him.

“Jason… Do you remember your nightmare?”Conner asked. Jason sighed. “I’m sorry if that was personal—.”

“I have nightmares about my claustrophobia,” Jason mumbled, “Always different scenarios… What did you do when you came in?”

“I sat you up and let you lay on me until your breathing slowed down,” Conner answered. Jason made a soft noise of acceptance and shut his eyes. Conner yawned and fell asleep shortly after Jason curled into him. Gromit lay on Jason’s other side, offering enough space for Jason to roll over when he needed to. That night, everyone slept peacefully.

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bluejaysandblackbats · 4 days

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To Touch Fate

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam

Summary: Jason attempts to settle down in Southern Italy and live a civilian life.

Chapters: 16/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Original Character(s), Bruce Wayne, Terry McGinnis, Matt McGinnis

Relationships: Jason Todd/Original Character(s)

Additional Tags: Angst, Jason Todd-centric, Jason Todd is a Father, Terry McGinnis is Batman, Retirement, Future Fic, Major Original Character(s)

Chapter Sixteen: Late Night

Angelo relapsed, and his fever spiked. Noemi called out of work to take care of him. Jason couldn’t sleep. So he was up every ten minutes, watching Angelo breathe. “Jason, you have to relax—.”

“I can’t relax. Angelo’s never been this sick before,” Jason whispered. He checked Angelo’s forehead with his watch and took a deep breath. Noemi clicked her tongue.

“Giasone, do you need something to do?” Noemi asked. “Get him out of that sweatshirt. He’s too heavy for me to pick up. I have to get him more ice to chew.” Jason obeyed, slipping Angelo’s sweatshirt over his head. Angelo turned toward Jason, holding onto his father’s sweatshirt. Noemi returned with ice chips.

“Hey… Hey, Angioletto,” Jason whispered as he nudged Angelo awake. “Mamma brought you something… Come on.” Angelo mumbled incoherently.

“You’re too warm. Try to eat a little ice. If your temperature doesn’t go down, we might have to take you to the hospital,” Jason whispered.

Angelo closed his eyes, and Jason jostled him to keep him awake. “You gotta get hydrated,” Jason whispered. Angelo didn’t answer. “Come on, Angioletto. Wake up.”

After a few minutes, Jason propped Angelo up in a chair and searched the house for Noemi. “What’s wrong?” Noemi asked.

“I can’t wake him up. Emi, something’s wrong,” Jason whispered. Noemi nodded. “Don’t panic. Take him to the emergency room,” Noemi commanded, “I’ll stay here with the kids.” Jason nodded. “Don’t panic. I put his hospital bag in the car—.”

Domenico stepped into the hallway, rubbing his eyes. He was wearing joggers and a sweatshirt. “I wanna go with Papá and Angel,” Domenico whispered. Noemi sighed.

“I’ll take him. Come on, Dom,” Jason whispered, “Grab something to do.” Jason carried Angelo to the car, buckled him in, and checked his temperature. Domenico clenched his fists at his sides.

“Papá… What’s wrong with Angel?” Domenico whimpered as he got in the car. They rarely used the car except for emergencies and trips. Domenico hugged his knees in the car.

“I don’t know, Dom… He might be dehydrated, or it might be some sort of infection, but—.” Jason took a deep breath. “Dom, can you read to me?”

“I brought my journal… I don’t know if you’d like to hear—.”

“I’d like to… I always love your journals. They’re so interesting,” Jason replied, trying to remain calm for Domenico’s sake.

“Okay… Um… I wrote something after last week…”

Domenico cleared his throat. “ I saw a seal pup during my run this morning. I sat on a rock and watched him sleep. I didn’t expect to see one so close, but I sat there for almost an hour, watching and wondering. I wondered if Papá saw seals this close when he was my age. I think about Papá’s life a lot. I saw his home on a map at school.

“ My American friend at school says everything moves slowly in Italy. I want to know what he means. I’m sure that Papá knows. One day… I’ll ask him ,” Domenico read. Jason smiled, finally able to relax.

“I don’t talk about America much… Do I?” Jason questioned. “Are you afraid to ask me about my life there?”

“I don’t want to make you sad,” Domenico replied, “Sometimes you seem sad.”

“No… I’m not sad. I worry about your Nonno Bruce sometimes, but that’s it. You can ask me anything,” Jason replied.

“Did you go to the beach in the summer, too?” Domenico asked.

“Oh no… We couldn’t go to the beach. You could die there,” Jason replied, “And the docks were where all the criminals met up.”

“What did you do in the summer, then?” Domenico questioned.

Jason squinted as he tried to remember his childhood. It seemed so far away. “When I was your age, I would lay a blanket out on the fire escape and wait for the shaved ice man to come. I listened for the little bell on his cart. Sometimes, my mom, Catherine, would fill spray bottles with water and food coloring… And we’d go up to the roof and spray each other until we were covered in colors,” Jason whispered, “Sometimes I’d take the bus to the nice neighborhoods with my father and we’d—. This part is bad… Don’t do this. We used to steal money from rich people’s cars,” Jason confessed.

“Why?” Domenico asked.

“Well… We were hungry, and I was a little smaller than the twins and wearing my father’s old shirts. It was for survival. I never stole for fun. I knew what I was doing was wrong, and I stopped as soon as I was in a better situation,” Jason explained.

The car jostled when they hit a bump in the road, and Jason tutted at Angelo. “I’m sorry, kids,” Jason apologized, “Dom, you have an American classmate now? When did he move here?”

“It’s his first year in Italy. His parents are divorced, and his mom moved here for work… He’s from Metropolis. Is that like Gotham?” Domenico asked.

“No. That’s better than Gotham. I like Metropolis. If it wasn’t for the major property damage and the constant threat of malicious alien settlers, I think it’d be a good place to raise a family. It’s just—. There’s not enough space to grow… Are you and your American classmate friends?” Jason asked.

“Um… Yeah. We want to go to the same schools when we’re older. I hope his mom lets him stay here,” Domenico replied. Jason nodded.

“Maybe his mom can meet Emi and me… And we can—. You guys can stay over at each other’s houses. Does that sound okay?” Jason offered. Domenico made a soft noise. Angelo’s head drooped, and Jason reached out and held his head back. “You were always Angelo’s baby. He prayed for you before you were born. When you were born, Angelo used to lay you on his chest and hum so you could feel the vibration when your stomach hurt. It was a pretty cool trick. I used that with all the other kids. His bond with you is special. So, I—. Are you boys okay now?”

“Uh-huh. We’re okay. He promised me I could sleep in his room sometimes when he gets better… How’d he get so sick?” Domenico asked.

“I don’t know. I’ve been asking that all night,” Jason whispered.

Domenico looked out the window and sighed. “Is it true that you gave up your American life because Mamma was pregnant?” Domenico asked. Jason nodded.

“Yeah… And I was in love with Mamma… She—. I met Emi at a time in my life when I was ready to slow down. When Emi told me about Angelo, I knew it was okay. I could stop. I could settle down here and build a life,” Jason explained, “I’m lucky, Dom. Did you know that?”

“What do you mean, Papá?” Domenico asked.

“I didn’t think I’d ever have children… And if I did, I couldn’t imagine they’d want me around. You’re all so understanding and kind. I have the sweetest children in the world. That’s why I respect all of you so much. You could be angry or defy me, but you don’t. You’re wonderful kids,” Jason whispered.

“No one’s papá is like you. You never yell at us and—. And you teach us cool stuff,” Domenico smiled.

“I teach you too many things,” Jason half-joked, “And I still haven’t had the chance to thank you for getting Dario and your sisters to school.” Jason pulled into the parking lot. “Can I ask you one more favor? Can you watch Angelo while I get a chair for him?”

“Of course, Papá,” Domenico replied. Jason left the two boys in the car, relieved that Domenico helped him take his mind off his worries.

#fic #to touch fate fic #batfam #batman beyond au #Jason Todd #Original Character(s)#Bruce Wayne #Terry McGinnis #Matt McGinnis #Jason Todd/Original Character(s)#Angst #Jason Todd-centric #Jason Todd is a Father #Terry McGinnis is Batman #Retirement #Future Fic #Major Original Character(s)

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bluejaysandblackbats · 5 days

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Titans Academy

Fandom: DC Comics, Titans, Arrowfam

Summary: Grant struggles to accept his new reality when Roy takes him in and enrolls him in Titans Academy. He must adjust to life at a boarding school and life with his new foster family (Roy and Lian). Can he learn to trust the people who claim to care about him? Or will he shut himself off from love altogether?

Chapters: 8/?

Characters: Grant Emerson, Roy Harper, Bart Allen, Toni Monetti, Cody Driscoll, Lian Harper, Jade Nguyen, Audrey Spears, Tommy Blake Jr.

Additional Tags: Father-Son Relationship, Boarding School AU, No Powers AU, Found Family, Second Chances, Roy Harper is a Legal Guardian, Roy Harper is a Father, POV First Person, Grant Emerson POV, Autistic Bart Allen

Chapter Eight: School Breakfast

I woke at four and dressed for school when I was well enough. I helped Lian tie her shoes and did chores with Roy. So, all the tasks students had were assigned by the week. If I had the stables one week, I had kitchen duty the next week, trash duty, and classroom cleaning, and then we would start over. Kitchen duty was intense. I started at five in the morning with Roy and Donna. They wanted me to help make breakfast. I had to make waffle batter for over a hundred kids. Four different ways. Roy sat Tommy in a high chair, and Lian refilled the napkins. "Thank you, Lian," Roy smiled. Lian nodded and stood beside me on a stool.

"You're doing a good job," Lian reassured me. I relaxed my shoulders and smiled. "Daddy's gonna be so proud of you."

"Thanks, Lian. That makes me feel good," I replied honestly.

"That's how you deserve to feel," Lian grinned. My throat went dry, and I teared up. It was the first time I'd wanted to cry since I was a kid. I hadn't cried in so long, but that did something to me. Roy picked up on it immediately.

"Hey, Grant, can you help me with one of the sign-in charts for the lunchroom?" Roy asked. I nodded and followed him to the lunchroom entrance while Donna finished making the waffles. "You alright?"

I shut my eyes until they stopped watering. "Uh-huh... Yeah... I felt weird for a second, but I'm okay now," I replied.

"What happened?" Roy asked. His voice was painfully gentle.

"Nothing... I mean... I'm not used to feeling special," I replied, "I don't know... What she said back there-. I got choked up for a second."

"Thanks for sharing that with me. I think I understand. Are you really okay, though?" Roy questioned. I nodded. "Kitchen duty kicking your backside yet?"

"I never had to cook back home. I had-. They were traditional," I replied, "So this is all new to me..."

Roy named the kids that came in, and I checked their names on the clipboard list. Bart ran straight into me, and he stopped in his tracks. "What's the matter?" Roy asked.

"I couldn't sleep. My uncle didn't call last night," Bart replied, "And I still don't know who's picking me up for the family week."

Roy looked Bart in the eye and took the clipboard from me. He flipped to the last page and wrote something down before handing the piece of paper to Bart. "But I can-."

"It's okay, Bart. If anyone needs a soft day, it's you," Roy replied, "I'll bring you your breakfast."

Bart nodded and left the cafeteria. "What's a soft day?" I asked.

"It's basically a mental health day. We all take them sometimes," Roy answered, "This school is here to build you guys up, not force you to put on smiles and pretend things are fine when they're not."

"No kiddin'... You really care about kids, don't you?" I whispered. I didn't mean to say that out loud, but I'm a dork like that.

"I care about everybody," Roy replied, "Cody, what are you doing here?"

"Got switched back to kitchen duty because some kid lost their kitchen privileges," Cody replied, "Are you supervising here today?"

"Mhm, know what that means? Wanna turn on the radio and show Grant how to set the table?" Roy asked.

"Waffles today?" Cody asked.

"Yup," Roy replied.

Cody led me back to the kitchen and turned on the radio. "So, you live with Roy and not in the dorms?" Cody asked. I nodded. "You're gonna fill the shakers for the tables with cinnamon sugar. The little kids like sprinkles, so we fill shakers with sprinkles too. I'll do the sprinkles."

Cody set out the shakers and the cinnamon sugar. "What are the dorms like?" Grant asked.

"It sucks when your roommate moves out, especially if you get along with them. I got a new roommate, but we don't talk much. People say I'm hard to get along with because I can be a jerk sometimes," Cody replied. I shrugged it off and filled the shakers. "Sorry about the other day."

"It's nothin'," I replied.

"You like living with Roy?" Cody asked. He filled the sprinkles jars so fast it made my head spin. "You'll catch up."

"It's okay... Everybody likes him here, or they're acting like it-."

"Oh no, he's as cool as everyone says," Cody replied, "He cares... I got here the same week as two other kids. Then another girl showed up a little while after. He treated us like we were his kids. He still checks in with all of us."

"And you've been here how long?" I asked.

Cody loaded all the full shakers onto two trays. "A couple of months before you. We're gonna put two of each on the table. Let me get the first table to show you," Cody explained. I followed him around and set the shakers out. Once we finished setting them out, Cody gestured for me to follow him. "We're front of the line for breakfast." I stood in line behind him, and we got the same stuff. Waffles, strawberries, sausage, and syrup. The bell rang, and kids started pouring in from all directions. A girl sat next to Cody, and she whispered something to him. He grinned.

"What?" I asked.

"She wanted to know if you were cool," Cody replied, "Audrey, this is Grant. Grant, this is Audrey... Audrey, where's Toni?"

"Caught up cleaning one of the classrooms probably... I bet you they stuck her in Health again," Audrey replied. Audrey. What a babe! But I think she had her sights set on Cody. I could tell by the way she looked at him. I don't think he saw her that way, though. I could tell by the way he looked through her when she talked. Still, I thought she was cute. "Hi, Grant. Nice to meet you," Audrey smiled as she reached to shake my hand.

"Wayyy nicer to meet you, Audrey," I grinned. Hey. Don't blame a guy for trying. Audrey dumped her container of whipped cream on her waffles and covered them in sprinkles.

"Are you staying here during family week?" Audrey asked. I nodded. "Me too. Donna's my dorm parent. It's not so bad staying here during family week. The school's like family anyway."

Cody picked over his waffles. "I said you could come home with my mom and me," Cody muttered.

"Wouldn't that be weird?" Audrey asked.

"My mom knows about you. She said it'd be okay... If it's too short notice, though, you can still come to stay with us, Driscolls, for winter break," Cody offered. Audrey smiled and nodded.

Yeah, there was no way I had a chance with her. Cody had somewhere to go. Lian put a cushion down and sat next to me. Roy put her tray down and asked me to help her while he checked in with some of the kids. "Morning, Lian," Audrey smiled.

"Good morning! Hi, Cody," Lian greeted them. I opened her butter and syrup, and she ate her fruit while I cut up her waffles into bite-sized pieces.

"How's your mom, Lian?" Cody asked.

"She went to D.C.," Lian replied, "Mommy has a big test to take."

"I hope she passes," Cody smiled.

Lian thanked him and ate her breakfast. I liked the meals. It was probably my favorite thing about the school. It wasn't quite family, but it felt pretty close.

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bluejaysandblackbats · 5 days

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An Oyster's Pearl

Fandom: DC Comics

Summary: Shortly after moving in with Joseph Wilson, Grant Wilson makes friends with a fellow pledge for a fraternity. During this time, Grant grapples with realizations about his childhood trauma, his sexuality, and his relationships with his father and siblings.

Chapters: 2/?

Characters: Grant Wilson, Joseph Wilson, Rose Wilson, Dick Grayson, Slade Wilson, William Randolph Wintergreen, Original Character(s)

Relationships: Grant Wilson/Original Character, DickJoey

Additional Tags: University AU, No Capes AU, Angst, Deaf Joseph Wilson, Fluff and Angst, Romance, Grant Wilson has a Sexuality Crisis, Frat Boy Grant Wilson

Chapter Two: The Nest

I woke up before Joey and opened a jar of pickles. Joey put my name on the top because I liked to drink the brine from the glass. We tried not to share a lot of food for that reason.

It was his birthday, and I planned on making a big deal out of it for once. I picked out a cake and everything. But Joey is... Well, he's Joey, and he's got a lot of friends. I didn't expect he'd have time for me on his birthday, but I planned for it anyway. After I ate, I dressed and attempted to sneak out of the apartment. Joey tapped the counter, and I turned to look at him. "Leaving?" Joey asked. I nodded. "Where?"

"Don't worry about it. I'll be back in two hours," I replied. Joey screwed up his face, but he didn't say anything else. "Want anything from the store?"

"Ice cream. Doesn't matter what kind," Joey answered. I nodded and went to the store to pick up his cake and gifts. I think I was more excited about his birthday than he was. I wasn't big on celebrating things and I definitely wasn't much for feelings, but I liked birthdays. Birthdays were the one thing Slade couldn't ruin, no matter how hard he tried, because he was never there. This isn't about Slade, though. It's about Joey and me.

When I got to the store, I moved quickly and efficiently. "I thought you'd be hungover," a voice whispered in my ear in the produce section. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I turned around, and the guy from the party stood there, grinning at me. Ken. "Remember me from last night? I kicked your ass in arm wrestling."

"It wasn't that easy if I remember things correctly... And yeah, I do remember you, Ken," I replied.

If it wasn't apparent already by the big ass smile on his face, Ken said, "It's good to see you in the daylight."

"I've been known to come outside during the daytime," I replied sarcastically. Joey said that was why people thought I was an asshole, but it didn't seem to bother Ken. "Are you pledging Tau Psi?"

"Yeah, actually. I was kind of there for the booze, but then I thought if this guy, Grant, is pledging, it can't be that bad," Ken replied, "What brings you here to this fine establishment in the early morning?"

"Getting some groceries and picking up the cake for my brother's birthday," I answered as I went back to looking at individual carrots.

"Sick... Is he the guy with the curly hair that dragged you home last night?" Ken asked.

"Yeah, we're trying this whole living-together-as-adults thing after I left him with our suck ass parents when we were kids. It's been interesting so far. Lots of boundaries and rules," I replied. I realized I had said too much, so I stopped talking. When I turned around, he rocked back and forth, standing on his toes and then leaning back on his heels.

"So, this birthday makes up for it?" Ken asked.

"No... Birthdays are just a big thing—. What's your interest in me, anyway?" I asked. He chuckled and shrugged.

I walked over to the bakery, and he tagged along. I didn't mind it as much as I pretended to. I actually liked the company, even if he was weird. "I'm trying to figure out how I'm gonna get you to hang out with me outside this grocery store," Ken replied.

"Give me your number," I replied as I gave him my phone. I hadn't met a guy so desperate to be my friend, but he seemed okay. He put his number in my phone, and I sent him a text. After that, he just left. I picked up the cake and paid for my groceries before grabbing Joey's presents from my P.O. box.

I told Joey all about Ken and how I saw him at the store, and he had a weird look on his face. "What? Does he sound insane or something?"

"No... I feel like you're missing an integral part of this story," Joey replied. He had a shit-eating grin on his face.

I didn't feel like arguing with him, so I tried to ignore it. "Are you having dinner here or going out with your boyfriend?" I asked.

I didn't like the guy. He'd been going out with my brother and didn't have the common decency to introduce himself. "What's your deal with my boyfriend? He's coming here for dinner tonight because I asked him to... So, be nice," Joey requested.

"Fine, but I don't have to like him if I meet him and he turns out to be an asshole," I replied, "And what's with that face?"

"What face?" Joey asked innocently.

"When you said that shit about me missing the plot. That shit you said just a minute ago," I replied.

"He wants you," Joey teased.

"Ken's not gay... Is he?" I asked. Joey messed up my hair and went back to his room. Why the fuck would he say that? Joey could be such an asshole sometimes, but the truth is... Maybe that's the only way he could be around me.

I snuck the cake out of the bag and put it in the freezer while I thought about what he said. I went to my room, unboxed, and wrapped his gifts. That was the one perk to Joey never helping me put the groceries away. Joey never saw his present or the cake. Once I put his first gift in a new box and wrapped it, I took it to his room and flickered his lights to get his attention. He looked up from his sketchbook and smiled. "Is that for me?" Joey asked.

"No! It's just your birthday, and I thought maybe I should treat myself," I replied. I gave him his gift and stood in the doorway with a smile on my face. "Unwrap it. Come on."

Joey smiled and opened his gift. He pulled his quilt out of the box, and his smile faded. "Come on, it's not like it's ugly. You're always complaining about how cold it is—."

"This is beautiful, Grant," Joey replied.

I relaxed. "Good," I whispered to myself. I sucked at giving gifts, but I knew this one meant something to Joey.

"Thank you," Joey smiled softly.

"It was between that and an electric blanket, but the quilt seemed more personal," I explained. Joey got up and hugged me, and while that might've been a heartwarming moment for any family that had a normal upbringing, it made me painfully uncomfortable. I gently pushed him away and went back to my room. He never took offense when I did it, but I hated how shitty it looked. Rose was much better with the emotional stuff than I was, but then again, she didn't have to grow up as we did. Affection was normal for her.

I'm not saying I'm more messed up than they are or that Rose had a better childhood... I'm just saying this is how I'm messed up.

#Grant Wilson #Joseph Wilson #Rose Wilson #Dick Grayson #Slade Wilson #William Randolph Wintergreen #Original Character(s)#Grant Wilson/Original Character #DickJoey #University AU #No Capes AU #Angst #Deaf Joseph Wilson #Fluff and Angst #Romance #Grant Wilson has a Sexuality Crisis #Frat Boy Grant Wilson

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bluejaysandblackbats · 6 days

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Adoption in Comics

Found family and adoption are big themes in comics. i see a lot of talk about found family, as i think that really hits home for a lot of the tumblr comics fandom and rightly so. So for this post im focusing on adoption, legal or otherwise. A guarding and ward relationship, which can be parent and child or looser terms.

Many of the most well known and beloved heroes were adopted or have adopted children of their own. It invites discussion of nature vs nurture, of dsymorphia, of choice. It can be a situation that's terrible, or it can be a salvation. It can be done for all the wrong reasons and lead to a disconnect of expectation vs reality. It can be full of love but still lead to missteps.

But before i go any further, a poll. Id like to get some background on the fandom here, so please consider reblogging.

Note for the poll: "Strangers" meaning someone who did not know your birth family prior to the adoption

I wish there were more poll options to also ask the adopted part of the fanbase if they are a different ethnicity from their adoptive family, as that usually has a huge impact on their experiences. For example, I'm Korean but my parents are white US Americans. I grew up in an area of some diversity but not a lot, in that all my closest friends were white and all of my extended family was white. And because of that, my ethnic heritage was something ive had to actively seek out and choose to make part of my identity. It also meant that i just plain did not look like my family or peers, and so stereotypes and assumptions (good and bad) have been put on me at times.

Economic status also plays a role. Im mostly pulling from past knowledge of adoption agencies, but it's not exactly inexpensive, and of course financial stability is one of the big things agencies look for. So it ends up being that a good chunk of adoptive parents are fairly well off, in the upper middle class range. And that in itself can be alienating. This wasnt my personal situation but I knew of others where it was.

I might need to make a series of posts about how all this pertains to comics. It could really be a Master's thesis topic. But for now I'd love to hear other people's thoughts on adoption in comics. What feelings do you have about it? Have you given it much thought? How do the socioeconomic statuses of the adoptive family inform the characters and their actions? Does race with respect to adopter/adoptee play a part in the dynamics of what's going on in the stories you read?

I of course have tons and tons of my own opinions on all this, but I genuinely would like to hear from others. This includes fans who arent adopted! Your readings and interpretations are valid on this subject too! Youre really the average reader, the main demographic. So it's interesting to hear opinions from that perspective as well. And if you are adopted and feel like sharing your thoughts on comics, please please do.

Oh! And one last thing, feel free to tag or list comics characters who are adopted or who have adopted someone. I'd be interested to see how many there really are!

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bluejaysandblackbats · 6 days

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Fic Updates

Would It Kill You? (Characters: Thad Thawne, Terry McGinnis, Deborah Morgna, Match, Bart Allen, Meloni Thawne, Max Mercury, Helen Claiborne, Mike Ringer; no powers au; flashfam/batfam/batman beyond au)

into the silent land (Characters: Jason Todd, Willis Todd, Faye "Ma" Gunn, Original Character(s), Sheila Haywood; canon divergent au; batfam)

Sweet Honey Bee (Characters: Thad Thawne, Bart Allen, Meloni Thawne, Don Allen, President Thawne; ballet au/no powers au; flashfam)

Bruised Figures (Characters: Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne, Dick Grayson, Cass Cain, Willis Todd, Catherine Todd; figure skating au/no capes au; batfam)

Wolf Tones (Characters: Laney Kent, Conner Kent, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Lex Luthor, Original Character(s), Harvest; no powers au; superfam)

Moon Rocks (Characters: Jason Todd, Catherine Todd, Natalia Knight, Original Character(s); canon divergent au; batfam)

Midnight Swan (Characters: Jason Todd, Kate Kane, Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth; canon divergent au; batfam)

Oracle of Jersey (Characters: Barbara Gordon, Dinah Lance, Renee Montoya, Charlotte Gage-Radcliffe, Lori Zechlin, Wendy White, Stephanie Brown, Helena Bertinelli, Zinda Blake, Tim Drake, Cass Cain, Ted Kord, Jean-Paul Valley, Dick Grayson; podcast au/murder mystery au; batfam/bop)

Central City Lemonade (Characters: Barry Allen, Iris West, August Heart, Thad Thawne, Bart Allen, Owen Mercer, Meloni Thawne, Don Allen; no powers au/kid au; flashfam)

Grave Circumstances (Characters: Jason Todd, Original Character(s); monster au; batfam)

Adrenaline (Characters: Jason Todd, Willis Todd, Catherine Todd, Bruce Wayne, Dick Grayson, Alfred Pennyworth; batfam)

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bluejaysandblackbats · 6 days

Text

In The Soup

Fandom: DC Comics, Batfam, Superfam

Summary: Jason Lives AU where he and Superboy become friends, despite Bruce's disapproval of Superboy. (ft. Jason's service dog, Gromit)

Chapters: 8/?

Characters: Jason Todd, Bruce Wayne, Alfred Pennyworth, Barbara Gordon, Conner Kent, Roxy Leech, Rex Leech

Relationships: TBA

Additional Tag: Jason Todd Lives, Jason Todd Has Chronic Pain, Jason Todd Has PTSD, Conner Kent is Superboy, Good Friend Jason Todd, Protective Jason Todd, Overprotective Bruce Wayne, Barbara Gordon is Oracle, Disabled Characters, Jason Todd & Bruce Wayne Get Along, Good Parent Bruce Wayne, Developing Friendships, Sneaking Around, Disguise, Fluff and Humor, Secret Messages, Hiding in Plain Sight

Chapter Eight: The Sewer

After they grabbed dinner, Jason and Conner went to The Sewer. The music blared as kids flooded in. Jason's breath caught, and Conner looked down to see Jason's face. A thin sheen of sweat started to form on his forehead. "Jason—."

"Come on, I think they opened it up," Jason replied, brushing his hand against Conner's to get his full attention. Conner followed Jason toward the back exit, where he saw kids dropping in on a ramp. "Sick! It's just like the one at home."

"Wanna drop in?" Conner asked.

"Oh no," Jason laughed, "Bruce would have a heart attack—."

"Bruce. Isn't. Here," Conner interrupted.

Jason grinned, and without another word, he dropped in. Jason laughed as he sped down the ramp. The wind blew through his hair, and when his wheels lifted off the ground… He felt weightless. Conner was shocked that Jason was so good at what he did but was fully prepared to use his powers if anything happened. It was the same rush he got from being Robin. Jason’s cheeks went rosy from the exertion and warmth. The crowded space and the noise were all drowned out by the wind in his hair and face. “Hell yeah!” Conner shouted.

Once Jason looked up, Conner was gone. He reached into his bag and put on his glasses, scanning the room until he met eyes with Conner at the bar. Conner beckoned him with a wave of the hand. Jason made his way over to the bar, and Conner tossed him a water bottle. “Thanks,” Jason smiled, “I needed that.”

“How’d you get so good at that?” Conner asked.

“A lot of free time this summer when I was stuck at home… Also, I think the ramp was my dad’s when he went through a grunge phase in the nineties. Funny thing… I wasn’t interested in BMX or anything close to that until after the accident. My dad hates it because he thinks it’s unnecessarily dangerous,” Jason explained. Conner grinned. Jason gulped his water down and nearly choked when he met Conner’s warm gaze.

“What’s wrong? Is there something on my face?” Jason asked.

“You look happy,” Conner answered. Jason’s cheeks heated up. “It suits you…”

Jason perked up and reached across the table. “I love this song!” Jason hollered.

“Wanna dance?” Conner questioned. Jason nodded, and Conner followed him to the outer edges of the dance floor.

Jason waited for the song to start before headbanging, and both boys stopped to scream the lyrics at the end of the verse. They danced for five songs back to back, while unbeknownst to them, a frayed wire sparked a fire. It went unnoticed until it engulfed a curtain, and someone let out a bloodcurdling scream. Jason barely had enough time to look up before everyone started stampeding, pushing him out of the way, and they simultaneously trapped him in the crowd. Conner was nowhere to be found amid the chaos. Swinging arms knocked him in the face and disoriented him.

“Everybody calm down, it’s just—!” Someone knocked over his chair, and before he could get up, people tripped over, kicked, and stepped on him, trying to get out. He curled into himself, protecting his head with one hand while he unbuckled himself from his chair. The crowd wouldn’t let up, so he was trapped as smoke started to fill the building. The smell of smoke, the sensation of being pinned down, and the memory of being trapped in the rubble triggered a panic. It started in Jason’s nerves, shocking his body with pains nearly impossible to distinguish from his injuries. He struggled for air, choking on the smoke as his body trembled violently. Tears streamed down his cheeks, and he couldn’t hear himself coughing over the ringing in his ears.

Conner put out the fire before knocking a hole in the wall to thin out the crowd. He’d changed into his costume while everyone was distracted, and then he scanned the area, looking for Jason’s chair. “Jason!” Conner shouted as he literally looked through the crowd using his X-ray vision. His heart skipped a beat when he saw Jason on the ground, but he listened in the hopes of hearing Jason’s voice. “Jason—.” Conner rushed toward him and listened to his heartbeat. Seeing all the blood coming from Jason’s head and the scrapes on his arms and legs.

“Hey… Jason—. Oh crap, Jason. Can you hear me?” Conner questioned. He took Jason’s flannel off and tore it to wrap Jason’s head. “Jason, please—.”

Jason grabbed Conner’s wrist and pulled at Conner’s jacket until he heard Conner’s heartbeat. He listened closely to the heavy lubdub of Conner’s heart to calm himself, but the panic and near-trampling he endured wiped him out. Jason’s muscles twitched, his head drooped and jerked, and Conner listened to the irregular sound of Jason’s heartbeat. He assumed Jason was gravely injured. “There’s so much-. There’s so much blood… Jason, stay with me, okay?” Conner stammered. Jason’s grip loosened, and his eyes rolled back as he lost consciousness. Conner scooped Jason up and flew him to the emergency room. He paced back and forth outside the hospital, not caring that he was in costume, and then he felt something buzz in his hand.

In the chaos, Conner must’ve grabbed Jason’s phone. He glanced at the contact and swallowed hard before answering. “Barbara, I thought he’d be fine—. I turned around to stop the fire and make a hole in the wall for people—. And Jason—.”

“It’s alright. Breathe. I’m on my way to the hospital and need you to relax. You didn’t do anything wrong. No one’s mad at you. Jason’s gonna be okay… He’s a durable kid. Are you in costume?” Barbara asked.

“Uh-huh,” Conner replied, trying not to cry.

“Go change into whatever you can find… Rush into the hospital and tell them you’re related to Jason. I’ll be there as fast as I can, but you can get in there faster,” Barbara explained, “Do you understand?”

“I’ll go change right now. I’ll be back. I’ll come back,” Conner replied, still shaking as he flew home to his hotel.

Rex was on the phone, gesturing excitedly, grinning about something Conner was too preoccupied to hear. He sped through, not stopping for anything or anyone. Then, he raced back toward the hospital. “Is Jason here? I got separated from him at The Sewer. We’re family—. I’ve gotta—. I have to see him,” Conner gasped for breath.

A nurse pointed him out to Jason’s room and explained that he was more shaken up than anything. Conner nodded and entered Jason’s room. Jason lay with his injured wrist draped over his chest, a cannula in his nose, and his head wrapped in bandages. Jason would’ve looked dead had it not been for his chest's steady rise and fall. Conner sat at Jason’s bedside, waiting for him to stir. A nurse checked Jason’s vitals as Conner rocked back and forth in a chair, wishing he’d been more thoughtful.

After a half hour of waiting for Jason to awaken, Conner fell asleep over his lap. Barbara arrived shortly afterward, draping a blanket over Conner and chatting with the nurses about Jason’s medications and pre-existing health conditions. “Sleep tight, boys,” Barbara whispered as she turned the lights down.

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