Masterstroke | The Dark Knight Trilogy

EIGHT - NEW CHANGES

I'm at the grocery store, my cart nearly bursting with bags and cans as I stock up on supplies. Just as I'm reaching for another can of beans, a familiar voice interrupts my concentration.

"Planning for a football team or a small army?" Bruce's voice is laced with amusement. I turn to find him standing behind me, clad in his street vagrant disguise, a playful smirk on his face.

I try to match his teasing tone with a nonchalant shrug. "Actually, my entire family is coming into town—my brother-in-law, my niece. My bachelor pad's supplies just won't cut it."

Bruce's smirk widens. "Ah, family gatherings. I suppose that means I should start thinking about how to make a good impression with my future in-laws."

I freeze, momentarily taken aback. The thought of Bruce meeting my family had never crossed my mind in this context. I glance at him, trying to gauge his seriousness. "Introduce yourself to future in-laws?"

"Future in-laws," Bruce repeats with a thoughtful nod. "If you're hosting a family event, it might be a good opportunity for me to make an appearance."

I stare at him, processing his words. The idea is both surprising and intriguing. "You don't have to—"

"—but I want to," Bruce interrupts gently. "I'd like to. And besides, if your sister's been trying to set you up on dates since high school, she might appreciate the distraction."

I chuckle, feeling a mix of relief and amusement. "That's true. She's relentless. If you can handle her, you can handle anything."

Bruce's chuckle is warm, easing the tension. "Consider it done, then. Just let me know when and where."

I nod, feeling a flutter of excitement at the thought. "I will. Thanks, Bruce. It means a lot that you're willing to do this."

"Of course," he says with a sincere smile. "Anything for you."

***

The family dinner at my apartment was everything I had hoped it would be. The table was laden with a feast I'd poured my heart into preparing, and the atmosphere was alive with laughter and the comforting scents of home-cooked dishes. It was a perfect evening, a blend of familial warmth and delicious food.

Bruce, looking effortlessly elegant in a cream cashmere sweater, khaki slacks, and loafers, was the picture of sophistication. To me, he looked like he'd stepped straight out of a magazine—handsome, poised, and completely at ease. I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride as I watched him engage with my family. Each smile he shared and every word he spoke felt like a testament to our connection.

My family embraced him with their usual warmth. Mom and Dad, as welcoming as ever, quickly made Bruce feel at home. Izzy and Matt, my older sister and brother-in-law, both doctors with stories as captivating as their professional lives, were engaging and kind. My five-year-old niece, Anna, was her usual bundle of energy, sharing tales of her latest adventures with an enthusiasm that was contagious. And Ryan, my younger brother and a journalist, kept the mood light with his witty remarks.

As dessert was served and the evening began to wind down, Dad signaled to Bruce, inviting him for a private chat on the balcony. My heart skipped a beat—this was the moment I had both anticipated and dreaded. Dad's protective nature was something I knew well, and I hoped Bruce would navigate it with the grace I had come to admire.

On the balcony, with the city lights twinkling below, Dad poured two glasses of scotch. The cool night air felt refreshing as I watched them from the living room window, my nerves tingling with anticipation.

Dad's voice carried a serious undertone. "So, Bruce," he began, "I wanted to have a word with you."

Bruce, ever composed, met Dad's gaze without flinching. "Of course, Mr. Carter."