3.1 | Complete Me ✔

Sworn To The Sword

"Thanks again for dropping me off," Zamora said as Lockheart pulled into the courtyard of Wayne Manor.

"There's no need to thank me," he drawled. "You already paid me gas money."

Zamora laughed as she unloaded her overnight bag. 

"You're just lucky to be invited back to Wayne Manor alone," he added.

Zamora blushed shyly, waving a dismissive hand. They exchanged a few more words before she began heading up the stairs. It seemed they were always expecting visitors, because Alfred opened the door for her mid-step.

"Welcome back, Miss Zamora," he greeted, taking her bag once she stepped into the foyer. "I'm happy to see you in higher spirits than our last meeting," he remarked.

"T-thank you, Alfred," she replied with a blush. 

She still hadn't forgotten that night. She'd been unable to walk the first day, and remained sore for the next two, they'd done it so many times.

"Miss Zamora? I'll escort you to master Bruce now."

"Oh, y-yes," she said, laughing nervously. 

As they walked to the back of the manor, she finally noticed that Alfred wasn't wearing his usual garb. 

"Alfred?"

"Yes, dear?"

"Are you going somewhere special?" she asked. 

"Oh. Young master Ezio and I will be accompanying you and master Bruce."

"Oh," she said, unsure what to make of the extremely vague answer.

"Zane, you came!"

She looked up and saw Bruce coming toward her with outstretched arms. She smiled, taking in his appearance before falling into his embrace.

"You're dressed outdoorsy," she remarked as he pulled away. He kissed her lips, sending her heart aflutter.

"Well, how else are you supposed to dress when you're going camping?"

Zane gasped, then clapped her hands in excitement. 

"Have you ever been camping?" he asked in amusement.

"A few times, but I've never been with you!" she beamed.

"I'll make it the most special," he said with a marvelous smile, taking her face into his hands. 

"And of course the young master and I will give you plenty of space," Alfred drawled, reminding them of his presence. 

They laughed nervously and broke apart.

"Is everything ready?" Bruce asked. Alfred nodded in affirmation, and he turned back to Zane. "Are you  ready?"

"It's a great day for it," she chirped. "Let's get started right away!"

***

The adventure began with a hike. Bruce owned a private camping site up in the hills behind the manor. Zane felt a little nervous but excited, thanks to the combined enthusiasm of Bruce and Ezio. The path was beautiful, chock full of plant life and woodland creatures. It was truly unlike anything she'd ever experienced. 

Ezio collected rocks, Zane collected flowers and Alfred collected herbs and berries. Bruce marched up the path like he was heading a parade and Zane couldn't stop laughing at his theatrics. 

They reached their destination in an hour and a half. A wide open space surrounded by trees and boulders, with a fire pit and a park standard grill. Zane gestured toward it in amusement, and Bruce growled playfully at her.