SHIELD [Book 1 of Alex & Allie Save The World]

Chapter 29 Let Go

III

"What's our mantra for tonight?" Bruce asks.

"Don't let Deathstroke fuck up our night," Allie chants.

"Exactly. I'll be on the lookout and you need to try and not go anywhere alone," Bruce advises. "Whatever you do, please don't leave the public ballroom, stay around people, do not let yourself be lured away."

"Got it," Allie guarantees with a nod."And whatever you do, don't get shot in front of me."

Allison Gray could not survive another event like the Metropolis Mayoral Attack.

III

The limo parks outside the Gotham Event Hall and the couple inhales sharply.

They are not sure what to expect tonight no do they definitively know if Slade Wilson will make an appearance but even still they have to be on guard.

Putting on their socialites simpers the billionaire and his girlfriend step out of the car and into flashing camera lights.

Bruce Wayne takes Allison Gray's hand in his proudly and kisses her cheek adoringly.

Reporters shout questions and photographers request poses as they saunter by; Allie answers a few and strikes a pose or two before rejoining Bruce and interlocking their arms. Allie has never been more grateful for Bruce's height than right now, he feels safe and solid and she needs that.

"This is just like any other gala, any other social event, but it's different being with you official," Bruce muses to her privately  and Allie nods.

"I feel proud but also like us being together has added pressure," she replies.

"I say screw our high class personas for a night and just have fun like any other couple," Bruce poses and Allie lights up.

"Deal!"

They shake on it and the second the deal is sealed Allie pulls Bruce past every faux smiling socialite and right into the ballroom without doing anymore publicity.

III

Alexandra Aldridge is already inside the event when the famed couple arrives hand in hand. Expectant looks trail to her so she puts on a glowing expression and walks over to them. As she gets closer Allie's face cycles through expressions of sadness, fear, and joy until settling on a faux one of suave cool.

"I am only over here for appearances sake," Alex says right off the bat and Allie shrinks back. "I am only at this event to keep you both from dying and Allie is only here because she has come to her senses and agreed to go public with you," Alex adds on in a grumble. "Now if you'll excuse me I need a drink. Fake a laugh as I walk away."

Alex stalks away while Bruce and Allie chuckle as if she had said some funny goodbye.

"Why don't you go sit and I'll get you a Dr. Pepper from the bar," Bruce offers and Allie nods mutely before shuffling away leaving Bruce to catch up to Alex.

"Aldridge, this has gone on long enough," Bruce deadpans and Alex crosses her arms.

"Well, Bruce what would you say in an appropriate time period to ignore the woman who was in love with the man that killed me?" Alex hisses venomously but Bruce stands his ground. He knows she's only hurting and being angry is much easier than being sad.

"She is your life long friend and this separation is ruining you both," he counters and Alex winces. No amount of makeup can cover the dark circles under the girls eyes or fake smiles can hide the agony in their souls. Bruce reaches out and places a gentle hand on Alex's shoulder. "Alex she did not know."