Unknown Friend | Bruce Wayne

SEVEN - STEALER OF HEARTS

Megan locked up The Haven, the warmth of the café lingering in the air. Just as she turned to leave, she heard the unmistakable cries of a baby echoing from the alleyway beside her restaurant. Heart racing, she rushed to investigate and discovered a damp, newborn girl wrapped in a tattered blanket, left to the elements.

Gently, Megan scooped up the tiny girl, cradling her against her chest. The cries subsided as the baby blinked up at her with wide, chocolate-brown eyes, her rosy cheeks a stark contrast to the dreary surroundings. Megan's heart melted instantly; she could feel the warmth of an unbreakable bond forming.

"Don't worry, little one. I've got you," she whispered, her voice filled with determination.

She hurried to the nearby hospital, her mind racing with concern. After what felt like an eternity, the medical staff took the baby from her and assured Megan that the girl was healthy, despite her rough start. They confirmed the baby's name was unknown, and in a moment of clarity and love, Megan decided to name her Rosalyn "Rosy" Eleanor Carlisle. Rosy after her beautiful rosy cheeks and Eleanor after her own mother.

As the days turned into weeks, Megan poured herself into motherhood, nurturing Rosy with all the love she had to give, while single handedly managing her restaurant as well. But parenting was new territory for her, and there were moments of doubt.

***

Megan stood behind the counter of The Haven, adjusting the pastries on display as the soft hum of conversation filled the air. The cozy café was a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, its exposed brick walls adorned with local artwork. Sunlight streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the bustling space.

Just then, the door swung open, and Bruce Wayne stepped in, a familiar presence among Gotham's elite. He scanned the room before his gaze landed on Megan. She looked up, her face lighting up with a smile.

"Hey!" she called out, wiping her hands on her apron. "What can I get for you today?"

"Two lattes, please," he replied, moving to the counter. "And maybe something sweet to go with them."

Megan nodded, her heart fluttering a little. As she prepared the drinks, she couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. After their night at the gala, seeing him again felt significant.

Once the lattes were ready, she slid one across the counter to him. "Here you go! Just how you like it—extra foam."

"Perfect," Bruce said, taking a sip. "You really do have a knack for this."

She chuckled, leaning on the counter. "I try! How's everything been since the gala? Any more fancy events in the works?"

"Just the usual," he replied, glancing around the café. His expression softened as he spotted Rosy in her high chair, giggling at the colorful toys nearby. "And I see you've added a new little patron to your clientele."

Megan turned to look at Rosy, her heart swelling with pride. "That's right! Meet Rosalyn, or as I like to call her, Rosy. She keeps me on my toes."

Bruce moved closer, kneeling down to meet Rosy's curious gaze, chocolate brown gaze. "Well, hello there, Rosy. Aren't you the cutest?" he said, earning a delighted squeal from the baby.

Megan laughed, watching their interaction. "She's been a handful but a joy. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

Bruce stood up, his expression more serious. "You're doing an amazing job, Megan. I admire how you balance everything."

"Thanks, Bruce. It's been a challenge, but I'm learning," she replied, feeling a warmth in his compliment. "And it's nice to have a little support."

He took another sip of his latte, the moment hanging between them. "You know, I didn't just come here for coffee. I wanted to congratulate you on being a new mom. It's a big step."

Megan felt a rush of gratitude. "I appreciate that. It's been a whirlwind, but Rosy has brought so much joy into my life. Honestly, I could use some advice. This parenting thing is new territory for me."

Bruce smiled, leaning in slightly. "I'm no parenting expert, but if you ever need a sounding board—or someone to help out—I'm here."

Megan raised an eyebrow, teasing him. "So, are you offering to babysit? I could use a break now and then!"

He chuckled, shaking his head. "Maybe I'll stick to the coffee runs for now."

As they laughed, the connection between them deepened, the playful banter flowing effortlessly. It felt easy and comfortable, like two friends reconnecting after a long time apart.

"Seriously, though," Bruce said, his tone shifting to sincerity. "You're creating something beautiful here, and it's inspiring to see."

Megan felt a blush creeping to her cheeks. "Thanks, Bruce. It means a lot coming from you, especially since I pieced together your identity as my anonymous friend from the gala."

His expression shifted, a mix of surprise and intrigue. "Oh really? How'd you figure it out?"

"The roast you mentioned to Alfred. It all clicked after he came by on your behalf. You weren't as stealthy as you thought!" she teased, grinning.

Bruce laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I guess I underestimated your detective skills."

"Don't worry," Megan replied, a playful sparkle in her eyes. "Your secret is safe with me."

As they continued chatting, the café buzzed with life around them. Rosy cooed happily, oblivious to the adult world's complexities. In that moment, amid the laughter and warmth, Megan felt a sense of hope and possibility—both in her new role as a mother and in her growing connection with Bruce.

"Let's make a deal," Bruce said, his tone shifting again. "How about I come back for more coffee, and we can keep this conversation going? I'd like to help however I can."

"Deal," Megan replied, her smile brightening.

"Only if you promise to save me a dance at the next gala," he countered playfully.

"Consider it a promise," she said, feeling a thrill at the thought.

As Bruce prepared to leave, he glanced back at Rosy, who was now reaching out for him, her little hands waving. "See you soon, Rosy," he said, earning another delighted squeal from her.

Megan waved goodbye as he stepped out, a lightness in her heart. The café felt even more vibrant today, and the connections she was forming reminded her that she was not alone in this journey.