This Is My Future

Chapter 58

Dick's P.O.V

My eyes fluttered open and I found myself staring at Tim.

I sighed, studying his face.

Once we got home last night I sent him to bed. I hadn't thought about how well he'd hear Arty and I yelling at each other.

Tim's a smart kid. He's also tough, I've seen him take down villains like Bane alone, but he's sensitive; that's what I always end up forgetting.

So, it felt terrible to see the dry tear stains dragging down his cheeks.

I reached up and cupped the side of his face, stroking my thumb over his cheek gently.

He released a weak groan.

I slid my arm under him and wrapped my other arm around him, pulling him to my chest.

He was tense a moment before settling down.

I tightened my embrace on him, holding him against my chest.

He buried his face into my chest.

I rubbed his back gently, hugging him close.

Even if Tim was fourteen, I couldn't help but think he was cute curled up against my chest.

I closed my eyes. I knew I was supposed to be getting up fairly soon, but I didn't want to. I just wanted to lay here and hug my little brother.

I started dozing off, but that didn't last long when I heard Arty's music start blaring from the kitchen. I smiled faintly in amusement, watching her dance had turned into an everyday tradition after she moved in.

After a few minutes I heard her knock on my door.

Tim moaned at the noise.

"Come back later," I said. "We're sleeping."

"Dick, we have to go soon," She said and I knew she rolled her eyes.

"Can't we be a little late?" I asked, "Timmy's sleeping and it's cute."

She opened the door and looked at Tim and I.

I smiled at her.

She smiled faintly and shook her head, "C'mon Little Birdy, we have to go."

I sighed. I let go of Tim and shook him gently.

He grunted.

Arty shook her head and walked out, "Breakfast is ready by the way."

I shook Tim again, "Wake up Timmy."

He grunted and rolled over, wrapping his arms around his pillow.

I chuckled and pushed him.

He rolled over, his back hitting the wall.

"Wake up, Baby Bird," I said, nudging his shoulder.

He released a weak groan and opened his eyes.

"Morning sleepyhead," I chuckled.

He smiled drowsily.

"Time to get up, Baby Bird," I said, pushing myself over to grab my wheelchair.

Tim sat up and crawled over me.

I lifted myself into the wheelchair and went to my dresser. I pulled out my clothes and glanced at Tim.

He was digging through his backpack.

"Do you need your laundry done?" I asked him, pulling on my shirt.

"Maybe soon," He said. "I only brought one extra set of clothes."

I nodded.

He pulled out his clean clothes and walked out.

I finished getting dressed and went to the living room.

Arty was in there, watching the news.

"Breakfast is on the counter," She said.

I nodded and grabbed a plate. I set it in my lap and wheeled over to the couch.

After a few minutes Tim walked in. His hair was dripping and he was in his clean clothes.

He sat at the counter and started eating.

I looked at the front door when someone knocked. I frowned at Arty.

"Expecting someone?" She asked.

I shook my head, "No. You?"

She shook her head.

I set my empty plate on the counter and went to the door.

"Just a sec," I said when the person knocked a second time.

I grabbed the door and pulled it open. I took a sharp breath and held it, looking at the man's torso. I didn't have to look at his face to know who he was.

Arty sat up, her eyes widened.

Tim stopped short from putting his fork in his mouth, looking at the man.

"Hello Dick, Artemis, Tim."

Tim dropped his fork.

Arty stood up.

I released my breath, "Bruce..."