Yeah. Actually you're right. [ It's so smart. So like the Bruce he knows (and dearly loves, he can admit to that in his own mind) that he can't help the smile stealing across his face. He's just as quick to school it away. ]
You need more than that to go on, right? [ The hesitation is visible for a moment. A promise made a lifetime ago, still only broken once.
But it's gone a second later. Carefully, methodically, he reaches up to peel the mask off. With it comes that feeling of being thrust out into open space without a line. He looks Bruce in the eye. ]
I'm Dick Grayson, when I'm not... doing this. [ A breath. ] Bruce Wayne- [ not you ] helped me out after my parents were killed. We worked together to bring the murderer to justice.
I know why Alfred takes his tea without sugar. I know where you keep the photos in the attic. I know- [ Too much. Too much for only a friend, kept at arms' length. Like Bruce probably wishes he always had. He falters there, but it doesn't drop his gaze. He can't help this lost, frightened child if he can't gain at least part of his trust. ]
no subject
You need more than that to go on, right? [ The hesitation is visible for a moment. A promise made a lifetime ago, still only broken once.
But it's gone a second later. Carefully, methodically, he reaches up to peel the mask off. With it comes that feeling of being thrust out into open space without a line. He looks Bruce in the eye. ]
I'm Dick Grayson, when I'm not... doing this. [ A breath. ] Bruce Wayne- [ not you ] helped me out after my parents were killed. We worked together to bring the murderer to justice.
I know why Alfred takes his tea without sugar. I know where you keep the photos in the attic. I know- [ Too much. Too much for only a friend, kept at arms' length. Like Bruce probably wishes he always had. He falters there, but it doesn't drop his gaze. He can't help this lost, frightened child if he can't gain at least part of his trust. ]
We're friends, Bruce.