I knew Batman

Chapter 15 -- The Museum Terrace

Alfred later found me in the Manor library. I was working on some administrative stuff for the hospital. Bruce was at Wayne Enterprises to meet with the Board and a new Chinese investor. I liked to work in the library. I always liked the company of books and Bruce's father was a doctor, so the library had a huge collection of medical books and journals.

"Ms Judy, do you have a moment?"

"Of course, what is it?"

"Because of the upcoming event, I was thinking I could lift the burden of clothing from your shoulders. The Wayne Family has a well-established relationship with many of the great fashion houses of Gotham. If you think so, I could arrange an appointment."

I got embarrassed.

"Okay, this is your very polite way of saying my clothing style is cheap."

"Not at all. You are more than capable of choosing your clothes. I was thinking, it would spare you time if someone else did that job."

"Alfred, I'm Bruce's girlfriend, not the First Lady. I do not need fashion houses to dress me."

"With all due respect, I disagree. Master Bruce may be the symbol of justice and hope as Batman. But as Bruce Wayne, unfortunately, he often fails to understand that as the heir of one of the oldest, most prominent industrialist families of Gotham, he is the symbol of social progress, technological development and tradition. And as his partner, so are you."

I sighed. This whole "being a symbol"-thing made me uncomfortable. What did I sign up for with being Bruce's girlfriend? This is so not my world. But Alfred had a point. In addition, I hate to buy clothes, I would need help from Eve again for the ball this weekend and I cannot bother her every single time in the future when I go out with Bruce... So I gave in.

" I think I accept your offer, Alfred."

Later, Alfred drove me to the fashion street of Gotham. I have never even been there before. We went to one of the shops, where two very polite and elegant women welcomed us. I felt awkward but actually, they were nice. They took my measurements and asked me about my favourite colours and styles. I also tried on some clothes. And that was it. A few days later, at the end of the week, I found my wardrobe full of new clothes for every possible occasion. There were elegant evening dresses with matching accessories, urban-style jeans and shirts and even the highest-quality sportswear. I was amazed and grateful for Alfred to arrange this. I never had these kinds of clothes before. So when Saturday came, I felt that I was more than ready for the event.

I had to admit, I was nervous. Bruce drove us to the venue with one of his fancy sports cars. When we got closer I saw how much fuss is made from this ball. A red carpet was laid on the steps of the museum and photographers lined up on the sides busy taking pictures of the guests.

"Photographers, really?" I asked Bruce.

Probably, he heard the anxiety in my voice because he asked me, "We still can go home if you want."

I took a deep breath. "Not a chance." I was determined to take part in this event.

Bruce stopped the car before the steps of the Museum, got out and threw the key to one of the bellboys around. The photographers started to take pictures right away. 'How can he be so casual and elegant at the same time?' I wondered in myself. Bruce opened the door for me and offered his hand to help me get out. I accepted it. Our fingers interlocked and we walked towards the entrance hand-in-hand. I needed his strong and encouraging grasp because the flickering flashlights around us were intimidating.

"Look, Bruce Wayne has a girlfriend!" shouted one of the photographers and even more people turned toward us. "Who is she?" asked another journalist. "I don't know but we have to find out!" answered another. I expected some curiosity towards me but certainly not that amount.