It started that summer

Bat Girls to the Rescue!

I climbed into the back of the car, gasping slightly as I settled into the plush seat. The pain hit me like a train, radiating from my wounds and wrapping around my chest like a vice. I leaned back, trying to find a comfortable position, but it was like searching for a needle in a haystack. The promise I'd made to Damian echoed in my mind, and panic started to creep in. How the hell was I supposed to keep that promise when I feel like this?

Just then, Bruce opened the door and slid into the seat next to me. "You okay?" he asked as he studied me.

"Yeah, just... catching my breath," I lied, though my voice betrayed me, cracking slightly. The last thing I wanted was for him to see how worried I was.

He nodded but didn't push further. Instead, he cleared his throat. "I scheduled an appointment with someone I trust. A therapist."

I blinked at him, trying to process his words. "A therapist?" The idea made my stomach churn.

"Her name is Dr. Ann. She's worked with a lot of heroes, and I think she could really help you." Bruce said, his voice firm but gentle.

"I don't know," I muttered, my heart racing. "I'm not sure I want to talk to someone about all this. It feels... I don't know. . ."

Bruce turned to face me fully, his expression softening. "It's not weak, Jason. One of the strongest things someone can do is accept and seek help. When Alfred took me to a therapist after my parents died, it was hard at first, but it taught me to cope better with everything that came up. You could benefit from it too."

I clenched my jaw, feeling the weight of his words. "But, I don't even know what I'd say. What if I just end up making things worse?"

"You won't," he reassured me, placing a hand on my shoulder. "Dr. Ann is trained to help people in your situation. She'll guide you through it. Talking is the first step to taking control."

I glanced out the window, watching the Gotham skyline blur by. The idea of opening up to someone felt terrifying, but deep down, I knew Bruce was right. "Okay," I finally said, "I'll give it a shot." As the car drove on, I could feel the tension in my body begin to ease just a little. Alfred navigated through traffic, and I watched as Bruce silently contemplated something, his brow furrowed.

When we reached the building, I took a deep breath. The thought of stepping out and facing this new challenge twisted my stomach in knots, but Bruce was right beside me, unwavering as ever. "Let's go," he said, offering a small smile as he opened the door for me. We walked together, Bruce guided me inside, and I could feel my heart racing with each step. "Dr. Ann should be just up the hall," Bruce said as we approached a door with her name on it. "You can do this, son. I'll be right here if you need me."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and anxiety. Just as I was about to open the door, I turned to him. "You really think this will help?"

"Absolutely. Just remember, it's a safe space. You can talk about whatever you need. And if you decide you want me to stay, just let her know," Bruce replied, his voice steady. I took a deep breath, pushing the door open. Inside, I was greeted by a bright room painted in soothing colors. A blue velvet couch sat invitingly in the center, surrounded by bookshelves filled with various titles. 

"Good morning, Jason," a calm voice interrupted my thoughts. I turned to see a woman with kind eyes and a reassuring smile. "I'm Dr. Ann. It's nice to meet you."

"H-Hi," I replied, feeling slightly awkward as I took a seat on the couch. It was soft, and I sank into it a bit.

Bruce lingered for a moment, giving me an encouraging nod. "I'll be just outside if you need me," he said before quietly stepping out.