Batman '66: Riddle Me Love (Season 01, Episode 01)

An Earned Reprieve

Meanwhile, tucked away in the sprawling expanse of stately Wayne Manor's backyard, a private retreat untouched by the clamor of the world, the enigmatic millionaire Bruce Wayne and his spirited ward, Dick Grayson, found themselves immersed in the warmth of a bubbling jacuzzi. A deliberate choice, this sanctuary allowed them to sidestep the whirlwind surrounding Commissioner Jim Gordon's momentous press conference.

Dick's playful voice broke the serenity, bearing the infectious enthusiasm of youth, "Gosh, Bruce! While the whole city's probably glued to Gordon's grand spectacle, we're here, simmering away like one of Aunt Harriet's hearty lamb stews."

Bruce's smile held a touch of camaraderie as he reached out, his hand finding a comforting spot around Dick's back. His words carried a sense of shared understanding, "Dick, my boy, we've earned this respite, a brief interlude from the weighty burdens we shoulder day in and day out. Right now, within the fortress-like confines of Arkham Asylum, our most formidable foes have met their match."

There was a subtle reassurance in his tone, an affirmation that they could finally savor a moment's reprieve amidst the relentless demands of their alter egos, Batman and Robin.

"I must admit, Bruce, my concerns do linger around The Riddler," Dick confessed, his voice a mix of candidness and contemplation. "He's out there, lurking in the shadows, likely weaving a web of intricate puzzles that he hopes will tie us up in knots."

There was a note of both respect and challenge in Dick's tone, an acknowledgment of The Riddler's cunning intellect that had proven to be both their nemesis and a source of exhilarating intrigue.

"Dick, those worries will find their moment when it's due," Bruce responded, his voice a steady anchor of reason. "However, right now, I suggest we embrace the luxury of living as everyday citizens of Gotham City."

"Gee, you've got a point there," Dick responded with a wry grin. "Maybe it's high time I redirect some of that enthusiasm toward my studies at Gotham City University."

"Dick, remember this: knowledge wields a mightier force than even our crime-fighting prowess," Bruce emphasized, his voice carrying a weight of wisdom and experience. "If you want to be cool, stay in school."

Bruce and Dick's contemplative interlude was abruptly broken as Aunt Harriet graced the scene. Adorned in a striking one-piece swimsuit, her presence radiated a spirited energy that was impossible to ignore. With a charming smile, she playfully inquired, "Well now, do you gentlemen mind if I make it a trio?"

"Why, feel free to hop right in, Aunt Harriet," Dick responded with genuine enthusiasm, his eyes sparkling with warmth. "It's time Bruce and I broke free from the clutches of our troubles and dedicated ourselves to sharing more of these moments with you."

A flicker of concern graced Aunt Harriet's features as she elegantly joined them in the jacuzzi. "A clutch of trouble?" she mused aloud, her voice tinged with curiosity. "I can't fathom what might be vexing you both? After all, your days seem to be filled with idyllic pursuits—fishing holes, swimming lessons, and even kayaking."

Bruce's laughter rang out, a warm and rich sound that echoed through the air. "Ah, Aunt Harriet, you see right through us," he admitted with a grin. "Our fishing lines seem to have a talent for conspiring against us and rowing upstream often leaves our arms begging for rest and relaxation."

Aunt Harriet's smile held a mix of fondness and curiosity, "I must admit, I do find myself a tad envious that my two boys have the luxury of spending so much time together. Yet, amidst all these adventures, do you two never tire of shouldering the title of Gotham's most eligible bachelors?"

Her question was posed with a touch of light-hearted teasing, acknowledging the allure of their shared reputation while playfully prodding at their thoughts on matters of the heart.

"Well, Aunt Harriet," Dick chimed in with a rueful grin, "I'd be lying if I said I didn't harbor dreams of finding a sweet gal to share movie nights with. Yet, as Bruce and I remain steadfast in our mission to safeguard Gotham's streets from the, um, 'villainous ways' of litterbugs tarnishing our fair city, the life of a Casanova tends to take a backseat to our philanthropic endeavors."

A playful twinkle danced in Bruce's eyes as he joined the conversation, "Absolutely, Dick. You know it well: ensuring a clean and green Gotham for the generations to come stands as our paramount objective."

The exchange carried a touch of cheeky humor, showcasing the duo's ability to navigate both the weighty responsibilities of crime-fighting and the lighter nuances of their personal lives.

Aunt Harriet's smile took on a mischievous glint, her gaze dancing between Bruce and Dick. "Well now, brace yourselves, because I've taken the liberty of enrolling you two in something quite special," she announced with a hint of playful intrigue.

Bruce's smile shifted, a mix of curiosity and a touch of apprehension mingling in his gaze. "Enrolled, you say? And might we have the pleasure of knowing what this 'something quite special' entails?" he inquired, his voice carrying a blend of amusement and mild caution.

Aunt Harriet's enthusiasm practically sparkled in her eyes as she launched into her announcement, her words bubbling forth like a secret she could no longer contain. "Hold onto your hats, because here's the scoop: Jim Lange has set up camp right here in Gotham City, all geared up to host 'The Dating Game.' And guess what? Your devoted Aunt Harriet might have just floated your names in the air, securing you spots as featured bachelors on tomorrow night's show! Yes, gentlemen, you'll be competing for a date with a charming lady whose beauty is likely to be as ample as it is enchanting."

Laughter erupted from both Bruce and Dick, their chuckles acting as a veneer to mask the flutter of nervous anticipation beneath. "Aunt Harriet, your boundless generosity knows no bounds," Bruce managed to say through his amusement, "But I must humbly confess that both Dick and I are tightly tethered to prior commitments."

"Preposterous!" Aunt Harriet chimed in with a gleeful exclamation, her voice laced with playful triumph. "You both thought you could outfox your dear old aunt, but I'll have you know that I've been quite the detective lately. I did a little snooping around your study and, lo and behold, your planners spilled the beans loud and clear! And just in case my brilliant sleuthing wasn't enough, I even got Alfred's seal of approval—since he's essentially the wizard behind your curtains —and he couldn't concoct a single excuse that would keep you gentlemen off the set of 'The Dating Game.'"

A knowing smile graced Dick's lips as he glanced at Bruce, a twinkle of shared understanding in his eyes. "Seems like fate has made up its mind, Bruce," he remarked with a hint of playfulness. "You and I are officially stepping into the spotlight, competing against each other for the heart of a Gotham City sweetie."