A/N: Damn Time. Now I messed up Jason's age... He's not 15.

The Last Days

Chapter 8: New Year's Eve

Mount Justice

He clutched at his chest. The pain was getting worse. Medicine was helping, but not by much. He wanted to scream, to go back to the Manor. He couldn't move.

"Birdie?"

"J-J-Jay..." Robin spoke weakly, his gaze landing on his older brother.

"Oh my God! Dick!" The 14-year-old ran over, crouching beside the little bird. "Is it the–"

Dick groaned and turned his head. "Y-Yes. Get m-me t-to the Ma-Manor, p-please. I-I don't want th-the team to s-see me l-like this." His voice was hoarse.

Jump City

New Year's Eve. Traffic decreased, but Raven didn't care. She was in her apartment, hiding away from the rest of the world. Families all over would be celebrating once more.

It was now dark, the time being 11:54 PM. At 12:00, the new year would start. Raven looked out her window, watching people hurry back home. Although they could be going to the local party at the park. She wondered if anyone was in pain, in fear, or just dying. She wished them to be okay, so they could live. So that they could live life to the fullest until that day.

Wayne Manor

Dick was treated by Leslie, although a small amount of pain remained. His family was in the living room with him, watching television. The New Year's Eve meal was eaten, but Dick didn't eat much. He glanced up. The countdown on the television showed 11:59, only seconds remaining.

10

He thought about his real family.

9

Were they in peace?

8

Do they know that he could have saved them? But...

7

"I'll always protect you." Jason promised him long ago.

6

He knows promises can't be kept.

5

What if it all fell apart?

4

Would he be able to live with himself?

3

His new family wouldn't die. They just couldn't.

2

Everything was perfect, except the pain he feels.

1

He didn't want anyone to leave him ever again. He would be all alone...