POSSESSION ; INJUSTICE SUPERBAT

Chapter 13

T/W: Physical abuse, overly touchy gestures, emotional manipulation
(listing these out just to have you being mentally prepared for it!)

★

"I'm fine," The child pouted. "I can still walk, Barry. It's just a bruise."

"I know, I know," Barry sighed out as he looked at the injury. It was a mere scratch, but there is no way it would fade away at any time. Kal is coming back today, and Barry knew the man wouldn't be happy to see his precious boy injured - even if it was just a mosquito bite.

Barry had the boy dressed in long pants to hide the wound, but it was only a matter of time before the Kryptonian found out. As a responsible caretaker, Barry knew he should admit his mistakes of failing to take care of Bruce. But at the same time, the speedster didn't want to imagine the consequences of Kal knowing that he had secretly brought Bruce to the outside world.

"Bruce, remember our promise?" Barry squatted down, fixing the boy's hair. "We didn't want Kal to know we sneaked out. So, you shouldn't tell him about our... little incident in the outside world. Okay?"

The child was confused. He didn't understand Barry's tenseness towards Kal's return. He was excited to tell Kal about his trip to the outside world. Maybe he could even convince Kal to bring him out someday! However, seeing how alarmed Barry was, Bruce knew he shouldn't burden up the man.

So, being the good boy he was, Bruce nodded in agreement.

★

Kal sat on the bed. It was earlier than the time of departure, but the man was already well-dressed and waiting as the time tick off. Diana was sitting in front of the dressing table, combing her hair.

She ignored him like he was thin air, and Kal didn't blame her for the cold shoulder. He uttered Bruce's name when they were having sex. He understood how hurtful it was for her. He felt disgusted at himself as well. But, instead of guilt, Kal was frustrated. For himself. The decision of coming along with Diana had been a huge mistake since the beginning.

He honestly didn't care about how she felt. Their relationship was always the type which went on and off, and Kal was immune towards Diana's feisty temper.

If he cared, he would have spoken up. He would have brought flowers and comforted the woman, telling her how much he loves her. But none of these came across Kal's mind.

He was tired of this relationship.

As harsh as it might sound, she was not that important in his life.

As the time of departure arrived, Kal had a firm unfriendly handshake with Arthur. Without another word, and not waiting for anyone to come along, Kal walked up to the ship. He sat in the centre seat. As everyone started to get back on their supposed position, the Kryptonian finally closed his tired eyes.

The hell days were over. He can't wait to meet with his little Bruce.

★

It was boring when Barry couldn't play with him.

Although the adult assured that Bruce would be the first to be informed about the arrival of Kal, the boy was persistent in staying in the speedster's office.

Since Barry is working, Bruce knew he shouldn't intervene. He brought a few comic books with him and was silently reading on them. The only sound in the room was the noises of Barry typing on the keyboard.

"Are they back yet?"

Bruce had his eyes on the digital clock as he asked. Barry chuckles, running a hand over Bruce's hair. "Not yet, kiddo. Hal would inform us when they do. Be patient."