Hello Gothamites.

This chapter has been a long time in coming. I had hesitated in posting due to it having cross over characters. Several people have read it on Tumblr and liked it. Their encouragement got me to post it. Hope you don't hate it! I really want to finish this story and there is just no way to do it without some crossover.

Bear with me!

-Slingblade-

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Bruce checked his watch again as the Rolls crept its way through morning traffic with Alfred at the helm. Alfred glanced at him periodically through the rearview mirror, an amused look in his eye as he noticed his employer's anxious demeanor. Bruce Wayne's agitation was palpable as he shifted in the seat and glanced at his cell phone before returning it to his lap only to then pick it up again seconds later. He had been silent since they left the Palisades so the sound of Bruce's deep voice when he spoke nearly startled the elder gentleman, "You should have sent me with a driver, Alfred. I know you still have things to finish at the manor." Under his breath, Bruce mumbled something about Selina.

Alfred Pennyworth spun slightly in the seat using the standstill in traffic to better assess the sanity of his employer, "Master Wayne did my ears deceive me or did you just imply that you would actually prefer to be driven by someone other than myself."

Bruce gave him a pointed look, and then his lip twitched as he acknowledged the irony of his statement "I do not prefer that I be driven by another driver Alfred, but I do prefer Selina be driven only by you."

Alfred straightened in his seat and faced forward, his chin lifted as he spoke, "I shall take that as the highest of compliments, Master Wayne." Alfred inclined his head as he acknowledged his employer's confidence before promptly putting his concerns to rest, "I consulted with the missus before our departure. She was content to remain at the Manor today, sir. " Alfred changed lanes as he spoke, accelerating fluidly as he bypassed a stalled vehicle, "She had plans on convalescing pool side I believe, sir."

Bruce's brows lifted as the mental image of Selina in a swimsuit tripped through his mind's eye. He cleared his throat and nodded before trying to focus in on the business at hand. He accessed his calendar through the WE satellite phone and tried to organize his day. He was determined to keep his schedule on track so that he would be able to escape the office at a reasonable time. A late night scouting in the Bowery coupled with an early wakeup call to train with Blake already had him feeling drained. With one glance at Lucius's itinerary, he realized that his plan was doomed to failure.

Bruce swore lightly under his breath. Lucius was stacked. There are fourteen entries in his calendar before 11am. Lucius you are pushing yourself too hard. Bruce exhaled and rubbed his temple, or I am pushing you too hard. Either way this is unacceptable. Fox had not had a day off in weeks. He seemed to be on site twenty four seven and when he wasn't at the shop he was assisting Blake or baling Bruce himself out of whatever crisis he had found himself in whether it be business or Batman related. Taking time away yesterday to take care of Selina had resulted in a late night in the office for his over worked CEO and according to his schedule he had already been in the office for over an hour today.

Bruce frowned down at his watch again as he tapped his phone on his knee distractedly. He had called Fox, as they were about to sit down to dinner last night. Selina and Meghan had been sitting on the ledge of the billiards table in the beautifully refurbished game room chasing pool balls into the pockets when he first tried to reach his CEO. He left a message on his cell and then as an afterthought direct dialed to his office phone. Fox's assistant picked up the call immediately. Bruce recognized his voice from his years of service; the fatigue in his voice was obvious. Bruce glanced at his watch frowning at the lateness of the hour. After several minutes of conversation, Bruce realized Fox would not be joining them and likely not leaving the office anytime soon that evening.

Bruce had returned to the group, as they were about to ascend to the second story. Meghan was begging her father to allow her to return to the solarium for a swim in the temperature-controlled pool. The pool... Selina would be sitting beside it wearing a miniscule bikini no doubt. Bruce tried not to be annoyed by the fact he would not be there applying the suntan oil. This is about Fox not me. He shifted again in the seat as he typed out a text to Selina.

'Alfred said you are swimming today. What will you be wearing? I want a pic.'

He smiled down at his phone as he thought of the beautiful pool area that had been recreated under the supervision of his talented fiancée. As the group had meandered through the huge room, he had been astounded by the change that had been made to the structure. Gone was the simple two-lane lap pool where he had spent so many hours swimming in silent isolation. Now there were walls of glass that encased the entire structure, vaulted two stories above them. The glass ceiling was supported with pure white beams set angularly against one another creating an elegant architectural focal point that drew your eyes upward to the lifted glass panels that capped off the top of the structure. It was luxurious and refined. Bruce had looked over at Alfred and witnessed his butler wrapping an arm around Selina as they stood together beside the pool, "It is just as it came off your pen, Miss Kyle, a work of art. Positively breathtaking."

Selina had beamed up at Alfred, but was quick to pass on the compliment, "I just gave suggestions. Fox's guy did the real work, creating the plans."

Bruce taped the phone on his knee again. Lucius. With all he had on his plate, he had still had a huge hand in the remodel too. There is no amount of money that could ever compensate Fox for what he has done for me.. for Gotham. The phone vibrated and a muted beeped sounded under his hand.

'No dice Wayne. If u wanted to see my suit - u shoulda stayed home'

Bruce snorted as he responded, his fingers typed quickly and he pressed send and then immediately accepted a call from Fox before it even had time to ring through, "Good morning Fox. I trust you are not calling to tell me that we lost the bid on the Shelburne."

A exported huff preceded the CEO's response, "No, Mr. Wayne. I put that to bed last night."

Bruce chuckled, "Really? I would have thought you would have let me know we closed it." He spoke as he gazed out of the window of the Rolls as they pulled to a stop. Alfred parked the car along the curb and quickly stepped out to release his charge upon the sidewalk. Bruce stepped out of the car and onto the sidewalk pausing for a moment while Alfred straightens his tie. Bruce mouthed a silent ' thank you' and Alfred nodded silently as he passed the owner of Wayne Enterprises his briefcase.

Alfred nodded smartly to the doorman of Wayne towers as he shut the rear door of the Silver Rolls Royce Phantom, watching proudly as Bruce Wayne strode into the bustling lobby as he continued his conversation with Fox. "Well I should hope that since you were not at the unveiling of Wayne Manor that you had pressing business to contend with."

"That I did Mr. Wayne. " Fox's voice was filled with humor. " I trust that the Commissioner and Ms. Meghan were enough to entertain you in my absence."

Bruce smiled, "They were at that. See you in seventy-eight floors." Bruce dropped the phone into his pocket as he stepped into the elevator car. His mind wandered back to last night and Gordon, his face darkening as he thought of Megan for the remainder of his vertical commute

X

(The night before at Wayne Manor)

X

Gordon had been mindful that there was business in the Bowery to be attended to and he had insisted that he and Meghan be off by 8:30 that evening. Alfred had kept them on schedule until Meghan become engrossed in playing with Blake and Ace. Alfred had set off to recover the little girl and Bruce meandered over to where the Commissioner and his fiancée were talking quietly on the drive by Gordon's car.

Bruce heard Selina's ask if there was anything more she could do and Gordon just cleared his throat as he noticed Bruce approach. He muttered out that she was doing enough and that he appreciated her. Bruce paused as the conversation had obviously stalled at his arrival, "Am I interrupting?"

Gordon shook his head but looked mildly flustered, "Not at all, In fact it may well concern you." He gave Bruce a quick look before dropping his eyes to his shoes, " Alfred and Blake too for that matter... depending on how you decide you want to do this." He looked at Selina as he said the word 'you', seemingly looking for an answer to a question.

Selina shrugged, "Play it by ear, Jim. Just let me know when. I got you covered." She reached down and squeezed the commissioner's hand looking at him intently, "Think about the other thing too, I'm serious."

Gordon let out a breath as he lifted her hand and brushed a kiss against her fingers. Bruce heard his voice crack, "I may just do that."

Bruce could tell that the moment was emotionally charged and his arm slipped protectively around Selina's waist, "Everything alright Jim?" He was taken aback when the Commissioner shook his head that it was not.

Gordon's voice was ragged when he spoke, "I will let Selina fill you in on the details. You have my apologies in advance if my personal issue takes time away from you two. I know with-"

Selina stopped him with a lift of her hand, "I wouldn't have it any other way, and you know that."

Gordon nodded as he finally lifted his eyes to meet Selina's, "I do know that and that the only reason I felt I could ask. Thank you." He looked at Bruce and gave him a small nod, "I should go collect my daughter, you have a pressing engagement in the Bowery tonight."

Bruce nodded pushing aside for a moment the cryptic and strained conversation he had interrupted as he offered his hand to the police commissioner, "I don't know how to thank you Jim... for returning Wayne Manor to me. I never expected anything like this from you or the city."

Gordon shook his hand, "Don't thank me Bruce." He gestured to the massive house behind them, "It was meant to show the gratitude of your city." He couldn't help but smile. " For everything Bruce Wayne has done for Gotham." He pulled his jacket tighter as he looked up at the massive structure, "I look forward to the formal unveiling at the end of the week. I'm sure between now and then Alfred and Selina it will have it looking even more spectacular."

x

Their car had not even pulled out of the drive to the massive metal gates that guarded the grounds before Selina could feel Bruce's eyes on her. She made a production of stretching and yawning and then she laid a hand on his shoulder as she slipped off first one heeled shoe and then the other. She slipped her fingers through the straps and turned to go into the house when his low voice reached her, "Really Selina?"

She grinned over her shoulder and gave him a wink, "Curiosity gets to bats too doesn't it handsome? Where do you want me to start?"

Bruce followed her up the steps his hands dropping into his trouser pockets, "You can start wherever you want Selina, as long as you are telling me the truth... all of it, with no admissions."

She paused on the steps and gave him an amused smirk, "I feel like I just got sworn in to testify."

Bruce let her circle his shoulders with her uninjured arm, his eyes dropped to the fiberglass cast that rested across her stomach, "I don't handle it well when you hold back on me, Selina. I would like the truth and nothing but the truth from my future wife, so start talking."

Selina nodded her head and answered grimly, "Alright, "I will be watching Meghan for a few days coming up soon."

Bruce scoffed, "That is hardly a tragedy that we will be watching Meghan. I assume you meant to say we because I would fail to understand how it would not be a we." He paused for a moment as he read her unhappy expression, "What exactly are the circumstances surrounding our babysitting Miss Meghan?"

Selina gave him a rueful smile, "And there lies the tragedy. Gordon's ex called and it seems his older daughter has been having problems. He has to go to Cleveland and see what he can do to calm the situation." Selina's lip twisted into an unhappy line, "His ex is giving him a hard time about Meghan. He thought it would be easier if she stayed here clear of the fray."

Bruce slipped his hands out of his pockets and rested them on Selina's hips, "I didn't even think to ask how his holiday went and if the kids got along…"

Selina's look softened, "They did. Maybe too well."

Bruce's brows drew together as he listened to her recount Gordon's trip. He stopped her once and asked her how she knew so much about it and she told him of her chats with Meghan on Skype. "She prattled on about Babs and JJ so much I think I like them myself already."

She looked up at Bruce and he just nodded, "They are good kids. They always have been. It killed Jim to lose them in the divorce."

"I'm sure it did." Selina moved restlessly against Bruce and he slid his thumbs soothingly against her sides as she continued to speak, "The weather was shit at Christmas and the flight for his kids got cancelled. He and Meghan flew up three days later and spent a week in Cleveland. Gordon, Meghan, and his other two kids stayed at a condominium his ex in-laws owned. Everything was going great until it came time to leave and Babs asked to come back with him. "

Selina and Bruce held each other's eyes as Bruce shrugged, "I can imagine that not going over well with Barbara. Gotham is blown to hell right now. The safety of the city was the very reason she took off with the kids in the first place."

"That's exactly how Gordon felt. He promised Babs that when things calmed she could come out and stay for a while. He even told her he would take vacation and they would go somewhere together. He thought it was fine until he got back home and his doorbell rang two days later."

Bruce raised his brows, "Oh."

Selina agreed, "Yeah oh. Well there was a cell phone battle and shots were fired via text and email from Gotham to Cleveland and back. After it all settled, his daughter said that she wasn't returning home and that if he made her that she would run." Selina shivered and turned to the house folding her arms across her chest. Bruce dropped his jacket over her shoulders. Selina looked up at him unsurprised by his chivalry.

Bruce gave her a half-hearted smile before glancing up at the night sky, "If you aren't too chilled Id like to finish this out here." Bruce requested the courtesy from her quietly and she nodded as she sat down on the concrete steps. She liked the seclusion of the night and the protection the darkness seemingly offered. Bruce sat down beside her, "What happened?"

"The ex Mrs. Gordon showed the next day and there was a stand off. Luckily, Stephens stopped by and was able to get Meghan out of there. She was upset. She evidently didn't deal well with the fighting." Selina's jaw tightened, " She called me crying. It took an hour to finally calm her." Bruce shifted and Selina recognized the movement from the normally unflappable Bruce Wayne as a display of extreme agitation.

"We could take her. Meghan. If she needs to stay longer… more than just a few days... more permanently." His words were chopped and short and they were filled with raw emotion.

Selina stilled him with a hand on his, "That is what Gordon is afraid of, Bruce. That issues with his wife will cost him another child."

Bruce sucked in a breath, "Damn."

Selina let her fingers twine with his, as the silence surrounded them. "Babs isn't exactly a child anymore, she is fifteen and that is old enough to make some decisions for herself. She asked Gordon to agree to try for sole guardianship or custody or whatever the hell you lawyer types call it."

Bruce gave her a firm look at the categorization he had been lumped into, but remained silent willing her to finish this out. Selina rolled her shoulders and flexed her neck, "He is going out to Cleveland to see if he can get the ex to agree to a custody arrangement and bring his daughter back to Gotham. If not she will be flying out solo when her emancipation paperwork is approved. Either way he was adamant that she was coming back to Gotham. Selina was silent for a beat, "Thank you Bruce." Her eyes were fixed in the distance as she clarified, "For what you offered for Meghan. Thank you for that."

Bruce nodded, his head lowered as he looked at his hands, "I love her Selina. I would do anything for her." Selina leaned into him and he gathered her against his side. His lips brushed her temple as he whispered, "I would do anything for you."

Selina's cheek stayed pressed against him for a long while before she finally lifted her head. She saw the love he had in is eyes, but she saw also an uncompromising determination. Bruce Wayne was not going to be regulated to the bench during this battle. He had a stake in this ... happiness of the people he cared about was on the line not the least of which was a little girl that had been through more than her share of pain in her short life. Selina read it all in his face and she loved him more in that moment for it than she thought possible. Meghan had a protector that knew no limits or boundaries. Selina swallowed hard and tried to lighten the mood. She kissed his cheek, "Calm down tough guy. Gordon is handling it as of now, but you might get your chance to contribute."

He was not surprised when Selina suggested his support might best be shown in the form of legal counsel. "Gordon's wife said that if he pushed things with custody that she would do everything she could to disrupt Meghan's adoption. The final proceedings are just a few months away. She has time to blow it all. Gordon may need a lawyer. Possibly a better one than he could likely afford on a public servant's salary." Selina gave him a pained look, "He didn't ask for anything, Bruce and I didn't put you out there... I just thought you might-"

"You thought right." Bruce felt a heavy weight settle in his stomach. Gordon was in a fight that had the potential to cost him both of his daughters. Of course Selina was right to assume I would do whatever I could to assist him. He pulled Selina onto his lap. She settled immediately into his arms tucking her face into his neck. He felt the chill of her nose as she warmed her face against his throat. "You have more to tell me kitten." Bruce twisted a tendril of hair around his finger, "Gordon and I had a talk about how he managed to pull off this deal with the Manor. He told me about the anonymous donation to the boy's home that got the ball rolling." Bruce nudged her face with his, " The amount was very near the same figure that changed hands for the insider information at WE." Selina seemed unfazed by his implications so he asked her directly, "Should I be concerned that the funds might be traceable to a former Gotham City Catburgler?"

Her throaty laugh sent a shiver up his spine, "I was pissed after the shit in Corsica, not brain-dead Bruce. The cash is clean. Nothing is traceable. It is so damn clean in fact that I even used your favorite little bank in Monte Carlo to effect the Bara bond transactions." There was a cruel satisfaction in her voice as she recounted that detail. " I put Jessica's blood money back into Gotham where it could do some good." She shrugged her shoulders, "So what."She was daring him to argue with what she obviously believed was a completely justified move on her part. She continued when he withheld judgment. " If you want the specifics I can give them to you, but I would prefer you not be involved further." They sat for a long moment as Bruce digested her confession. She turned his wrist and the illuminated dials brought her to her feet, "We need to get a move on, Bruce."

She stood between his knees as his hands gripped her thighs. She looked down at him and her eyes narrowed as he asked another question, "Where did the money for the house come from Selina? You donated nearly everything you recovered from Jessica. There wasn't nearly enough to cover what has been done to the house. "

Selina's smile twisted tighter and she gave him a wink, "A girl has to have some secrets handsome."

His hands slipped up to her bottom and he squeezed as he stood, "I think I would have been disappointed if you had told me." He pulled her tight to him, " I will be more disappointed if I find out you have been up to no good, kitten."

Selina grinned and gave him a throaty laugh as she murmured, "You like me a little bad Bruce. You might as well admit that to yourself." She shrugged off his jacket and spun on her bare heel, her hips swayed alluringly as she walked away from him.

Bruce responded to Selina's flirtation with a swift smack to her rear.

Selina rubbed her bottom as her eyes sparked with irritation and desire, "That's two I owe you, Wayne."

His eyes narrowed and he growled back at her, "I'm ready when you are."

Selina smirked as she walked after him, "Just remember I give as good as I get." She rubbed unnecessarily against him as she slipped by to take the lead up the stone stairs. The black garden lanterns illuminated the wide walk and he enjoyed the view he was afforded.

His voice was raspy as he replied, "I can't wait little cat."

Selina knew he was watching her as she lead him through the front door of Wayne Manor, "Not tonight rich boy we have stuff to do."

X

xx

xxx Present at WE xxx

Bruce dropped into his chair with a huff as he scrubbed his palms over his cheeks. He stifled a yawn as his eyes bleared from fatigue. Sleep deprivation coupled with his strenuous business schedule had left the owner of Wayne Enterprises mentally and physically spent. Bruce glanced at his watch and groaned. Thirty-seven minutes until the next block of meetings. He slipped his phone out of his slacks and skimmed through his missed calls and messages, three from Blake and one from Gordon all regarding the men involved in the weapons trading the night previous. He skipped Selina's message noting that it had an attachment. He smiled as he thought of his earlier request, Guess my guilt trip worked.

He had told Selina this morning as he regretfully untangled himself from her warm embrace that he absolutely had to go into the office. She had grumbled her discontent and leveraged him back against her side. She used his unwillingness to struggle against her injured arm to her advantage. She climbed above him and seemed intent on molesting him beyond the bounds of what his schedule allowed. She looked to be victorious in her endeavors until Bruce told her of his concern for Fox. He had held her at bay with a firm hand fisted in her long hair. He whispered against her insistent lips telling her about the enormous workload Fox was shouldering. Selina had frowned and then slipped wordlessly from astride his waist.

Bruce was all too aware of how much Selina cared for his CEO. Earlier in the car, he had reminded her it was for Fox and Fox only that he separated himself from her. He had hopped evoking some sympathy would garner him the results he desired, namely a picture of his sexy lover. It was the least she could do to tide him over while he was liberating Fox from the shop. Bruce was not above playing the martyr if it could get him forgiven and further reward him with what was doubtlessly a picture of Selina Kyle poolside opening on his phone right this very instant.

The downloaded file opened and he realized that he would have been better off leaving things alone. Holy god... How can those tiny yellow triangles be expected to contain Selina Kyle's considerable assets? He twisted the screen and groaned as his eyes dropped lower. It was truly a string bikini, the bottoms were held together at the sides loosely bound by yellow cloth ties looped into unreliable looking bows. His mouth was suddenly very dry. He reached out on his desk and grabbed the bottle of water that stood untouched on the corner; uncapping it while his eyes never left the screen he swallowed repeatedly nearly choking as Fox's assistant startled him by knocking lightly on his open office door.

The elderly assistant's eyes were apologetic as he watched the owner of Wayne enterprises lapse into a coughing fit. He clasped his hands in front of himself, "Apologies Mr. Wayne. I didn't mean to startle you sir." Bruce shut off his phone and waved him off as he continued to cough.

After regaining his composure and being briefed on his afternoon itinerary, Bruce dismissed the elderly man for the remainder of the day. He thanked him for his long hours of service and insisted that he enjoy the same long weekend afforded to Fox. The confused look on the man's face slowed Bruce. "Did I miss something Mr. Primrose?"

The elder man slipped off his glasses, "Mr. Fox I saw him just a few minutes ago, Mr. Wayne. He must have had a few things left unfinished He said he was headed to applied sciences. Are you sure that you do not require my services further, sir. You have a challenging schedule in the latter part of the day sir. I would hate to jump ship when there is still work to be finished." Bruce insisted that he take the time and was thanked profusely by the grateful employee. No sooner, than the door closed Bruce was in the private elevator headed to applied sciences.

X

xx

He heard the strain in her voice and his steps quickened. She was not a woman that was easily rattled and what he was hearing was this powerful woman sounding unsettled anxious and clearly defeated. Lucius's voice came low and comforting, "Pepper I will do whatever it is you require of me, but I don't agree that taking yourself out of the negotiations is the right thing to at this juncture." Bruce pulled up short not willing to round the pillar that blocked him from Fox's desk. The two were most certainly video chatting and he did not want to interfere if the situation did not warrant his influence. Fox's voice sounded again his tone comforting and strong, "Pepper you know that you have both mine and Mr. Wayne's full support on this."

Pepper's rueful laugh sounded hollow in the dark expanses of the applied science division, "Have I?" She sighed, "Well at least I have two men on my side."

Fox asked the question that Bruce needed answering, "Am I lead to believe that it is more than our foreign opposition that disapproves of your involvement in the energy project."

Pepper's laugh filled his ear, "Ever since the break in at the San Diego facility Tony has wanted me off this. Add to that the recent threats, " She tossed her hands up and shook her head in defeat, "He hasn't presumed to demand I relinquish my position, but he has kept himself underfoot constantly. " Her voice nearly cracked, "He is being impossible actually. Bruce would be better off with you heading the project Lucius. Things would be more efficient I'm sure. I can't even go out for lunch without it causing a security nightmare."

Bruce had heard enough, he rounded the corner concern etched on his face. Fox's brows raised and he chuckled, "Well Miss Potts if you didn't have enough with one billionaire worrying over your safety now you will have two."

Bruce Walked up beside Fox and accepted a chair that offered up for his use. He unbuttoned his suit jacket and smoothed his tie as he sat down in the chair. Pepper felt goosebumps break out on her arm when Wayne stepped into the camera frame, the smooth way he carried himself never ceased to make her stomach do a little flip. She blushed a little as she watched him settle into the chair. His voice put her immediately at ease. "Miss Potts you are a vision. Green always looks beautiful on you."

She looked down at herself and smiled. Working as CEO for Stark Industries had thrown her in the mix with every type of power player in the game. Some showed themselves to be womanizers or even misogynists. Men that used their money and position to intimidate. These were the men that welded a compliment like a weapon. A statement on her outfit intended to sexualize her so that she was reminded she was the and always would be the female.. the subordinate. A simple compliment intended to weaken her position and disadvantage her in negotiations. Pepper knew the hard truths of females in business first hand, she knew why less than 4.6% of fortune 100 companies had women at the helm. She had the added stress of being judged on the man in her bed rather than by her own merits. It had been a taxing journey to gain credibility after Toy had abruptly appointed her CEO of Stark Industries. She had been treated like an opportunistic whore by the jealous women and like a clueless bimbo by many of the threatened men. But none of that was true of Bruce Wayne.

Since the first time she met Bruce he had not only treated her with deference to her feelings as a woman, but also made her feel valued and respected for her intelligence and contributions to their business dealings. She had stood witness to the first negations between Stark and Wayne and she would never forget that day. It was the first time Tony Stark had been forced to take her seriously. She played over the memory. It was the first time Tony told me that he appreciated me, that he needed me. He had done it because of the acknowledgment of the intense and blindingly attractive man from Gotham city that now filled her computer screen.

Pepper took a shaky breath, smoothing the fabric of her green silk top over her stomach as her eyes blinked rapidly. Tears were threatening behind her eyes and she fought hard to keep from falling apart. Bruce looked quickly over at Fox who stood beside him shouldering on his suit jacket. Fox shook his head and turned away from the camera his face was etched in concern. He spoke over his shoulder," Ms. Potts I am going to leave you in Mr. Wayne's capable hands. I am tardy for an important lunch engagement." He tugged his cuffs into place at his sleeves as he gave Bruce a wink.

Bruce gave him a knowing look, "Tell Selina to find the rest of that swimsuit."

Fox chuckled as he patted Bruce's shoulder, " I never presume to tell a woman how to dress, Mr. Wayne." He patted Bruce on the shoulder as he walked past, " Thank you again for seeing to the shop. "

Bruce acknowledged his CEO's departure giving Pepper a few more moments to compose herself. The distraction had done what he was hoped it would. When he returned, his attention back to the monitor Pepper Potts was smiling as she brushed back her long strawberry blonde hair over her shoulder. She then restacked the papers on her desk as an awkward silence stretched between them. Bruce lifted his eyes from her face and looked over her shoulder, "Fantastic view of the Embarcadero." Bruce kept his eyes on the blue of the Pacific Ocean that filtered in between the mainland and Coranado.

Pepper cleared her throat and glanced over her shoulder. She turned so the computer camera could capture more of the landscape. Bruce took the unguarded moment to study her profile. His lips lifted as watched her control her breathing through measured inhales. Her shoulders were lifted indicative of stress and he could see the pulse in her neck tripping quickly beneath her pale skin. His eyes flicked back to the landscape as she turned back to the camera and he continued on with a casual dialogue, "You been on the course lately?" He did not bother to specify which golf course as they both knew he was speaking of the smaller less played one across the water rather than the more prestigious Pebble Beach up the coast off Monterey.

Pepper shook her head and laughed, her shoulders dropped slightly as she sat back in her chair, "Only you would ask me about my golf game on a day like today, Bruce"

Bruce grinned and Pepper was reminded why he was so widely lauded as one of America's sexiest playboys. His smile and charm were enough to bring a mortal woman to her knees. Bruce cocked his head and captured her with his sparkling eyes as he smiled, " You know teaching a beautiful woman to golf is one of my signature moves." Pepper laughed again and Bruce was happy that it sounded genuine and not forced. "You just happen to be to smart to fall for my lines."

Peppers eyes twinkled as she responded, "That and my golf game was already better than yours."

Bruce laughed and nodded, "That might have been a factor as well, Ms. Potts."

His face morphed from the sexy playboy he pretended to be into the man Pepper Potts knew him to be, the real Bruce Wayne. It was because she did know him that she known he was handling her right now. He was charming her, making her laugh, calming her and she was grateful. With Bruce, there was no malice and no agenda. His face was open and unguarded. Pepper focused on his eyes, they were green flecked with gold, and they sparkled with the intelligence that had made him so devastatingly effective in business. She shook her head and smiled, " Besides, you have retired all of those lame playboy moves of yours. You are in love now."

Bruce's smile softened and he lifted his hands as if to say, 'you got me'. Pepper swallowed hard not trusting herself to speak for a moment. While the press labeled Bruce as a vapid playboy, Pepper knew him to be exactly the opposite. He was thoughtful and intelligent with a silent strength likely born from the death of his parents. Pepper felt herself tear up again as she thought of Rachel. He had been so lost after she died. Now just look at him... I have to meet the woman that has done this.. the woman that brought him back to the world. Pepper looked at him with satisfaction, "Fox told me you would be setting a date soon. That is wonderful. No one deserves happiness more than you, Bruce."

Pepper had known his pain and Bruce had no qualms now with her now sharing his joy, "Its more than happiness Pepper." He glanced down at his hands and then back up to the screen, "She understands me, accepts me for everything that I am." He took a breath and looked away, "She brings me a sense of peace that I never knew possible." He looked back at her and his lips lifted in a helpless smile, "Pepper I'm a walking cliché and I know it. Its alright to laugh."

Pepper felt her stomach clinch at the tender affection he displayed. She shook her head, "It's not funny Bruce. It's love and it's beautiful." She tucked a smooth piece of hair behind her ear, " Now if you tell any of that to Tony..." She smiled as Bruce dropped back his head and laughed.

Bruce shook his head imagining the field day Stark would have with his relationship with Selina. The sudden image of the ultimate playboy Tony Stark in a room with his Selina had him shifting uncomfortably and tugging at the knot of his tie. Damn Tony Stark. He would make a meal out of pursuing Selina just to screw with me. Just the thought of Stark in his heeled boots dancing with Selina, hands on her when she is wearing one of those short dresses of hers... flirting with her. I know he will be relentlessly flirting with her, fuck. Just thinking about it was enough to set him on edge if he ever actually happened he was liable to lapse into a rage blackout at the mere sight.

Bruce quickly directed the conversation away from Stark and Selina He eased Pepper into business and after a few minutes, she had let go of the apprehension she had been harboring and revealed to him all that had been plaguing the operation and negotiations the past two weeks. Bruce had listened quietly as she spoke to the break in and the security measures implement.

Pepper felt her chest getting tight as she explained to him that Stark had asked her to step down from the project after the last threat against the facility. She sat quietly waiting for Bruce to respond. Bruce smoothed his hands together as he contemplated what to say. Pepper broke in her voice resolved, "I understand Bruce, if you feel the same way. I think just having a woman on the project is complicating the negotiation process with the Middle Eastern companies." She drew another measured breath and was about to continue when Bruce spoke.

"Pepper what do you want? Her eyes lifted and she paused for a moment as her mouth worked and he leaned closer to the screen, "The last thing I would ever want Pepper is to put you in danger, but I need to know what you want to do."

She spoke up quickly, "I am not in danger Bruce. The security is quite ridiculous in fact." She waved hand, "The building is secure, and the facility is now impenetrable." She cut her eyes to the side, "There are several different organizations involved at this point assuring that fact."

Bruce nodded, not allowing himself to ask about the organizations to which she was referring. She had asked him for consideration when it came to Tony and his "colleagues" and so he pointedly avoided the topic now. "You haven't answered me Pepper. What do you want?"

She sighed, "I want to see this through Bruce. I do. But I really think things might go smoother if Lucius- "

Bruce shook his head, "Pepper I have heard all I need to hear. You are safe, the facility is safe, and as far as I am concerned you are the only person for the job." He set his lips in a firm line before he spoke again. "Pepper I know you are in a difficult position dealing with some of the," he paused and only just managed to get his mouth to say "cultural prejudices that are doubtlessly presenting themselves in conjunction with this venture." He looked angry at even having to address this topic, "We hold the all of the cards here. We don't need them, Pepper. They need us. How this project progresses and the individuals and companies that are going to be apart of this with us need to be chosen carefully."

What he said registered with her, but what he implied meant even more. She said silently as he continued to speak.

"Pepper you have one of the sharpest minds for business that I have ever encountered." His earnest eyes met hers, "You just need to trust your instincts. They have served you well over the years." He made sure she understood that he believed in her before his face set in a hard line, "You are a pioneer here Ms. Potts. You are in uncharted territory and the impression you make during these negotiations will be a legacy that every business woman will follow in the future." His voice was grim and his message was direct, "Don't give up Pepper... and don't take shit off anyone."

She barked out a laugh, "Does that advice include Tony too?" She shook her head in obvious frustration.

Bruce nodded a smirk covering his face, "That especially includes Tony."

Bruce's calm confidence was like a balm to her raw nerves. She shut her eyes for a long moment. Just hearing someone tell her that they understood the magnitude of what she was going through but still trusting her to handle it on her own was the most empowering thing that she had felt in a long time. Bruce knew what had happened was not right and he did not like it for her, but he helped her understand what it meant that she stay in the game.

He studied the screen; the stress was evident in her eyes. Bruce sighed, "Pepper if it is too much to ask of you... to continue on... I understand. Believe me I do. I know you have your hands full with SI and this just adds so much more on you." Bruce searched her face, "If you want to step down I just ask that you give me some time to find a replacement. I can't put Fox over it. I already have him spread thin here. He is working himself to death and we are still barely staying on top of things in Gotham. I might be able to get-"

Pepper's resolve hardened and she interrupted, "I don't want you to find someone else Bruce. I've got it." His look was questioning and she drew herself up in her chair and repeated herself, "I've got it."

xxxxx

x

xxx

Bruce walked into the front door of Wayne Manor at 8:03pm he was exhausted and starving and there was no one there to greet him. He pondered that as he walked through the doors. "At least I'm not locked out this time." He muttered the words under his breath and then immediately blanched at the memory that brought his tryst with Talia back into the forefront of his mind. "Hell." He grumbled as he ran a hand through his hair. All of the time spent in the Bowery last night searching for links to the Joker was unearthing old wounds. He rubbed at his side, feeling the raised scar from Talia's knife. Old wounds.. The Joker's wounds ran deeper than a simple split in his skin. The Joker had done more than just spill his blood.

Bruce tossed his briefcase on the table in the foyer knowing that it would likely irritate the hell out of Alfred. He could not bring himself to care, almost wanting the normalcy of a proper dressing down from his stodgy English butler.

He tugged the already loosened the burgundy and silver paisley printed tie leaving it dangling around his throat once he had wrestled it apart. As he walked through the massive house, he realized how impossible it was to trail down people when he wanted them. He pulled out his satellite phone and accessed the security system for the house. Eight signals populated, three in the kitchen, one in the dining room, one on level two laundry and three in the lower east corner of the mansion. He strode toward the dojo smelling dinner cooking as he passed down the hall adjacent to the kitchen. Bruce grabbed an apple out of a bowl en route taking a wolfish bite as he continued through to the rear of the house. He was already running late for Blake is training, he had not eaten and they were still due in the Bowery tonight. He shrugged off his suit jacket as he gripped the half eaten apple in his mouth. The door to the dojo was ajar and he could here voices from inside.

"Master Wayne will be none too pleased with this Ms. Kyle. I feel I must ask again that you desist immediately. You should be resting your injury not engaging in hand to hand combat."

Bruce's head tilted and his approach become stealthier. What are you up to now little girl? He heard Blake's breathless response, "Relax Alfred, its not like we are making contact. I won't hurt her. She is just keeping me occupied until Bruce gets home."

Selina's voice responded, "Yeah Alfred, he won't hurt me. We are just playing around." Bruce heard the condescending dismissal in Blake's voice and he recognized the threat in Selina's as a recipe for disaster, he barged into the room and understood immediately Alfred's concern. Selina and Blake circled one another. It was apparent from her sweat soaked grey tank that they had been at it this for a while. Blake was in a full black Gi and looked flushed and winded. "What do you two think you are doing?" Bruce's voice boomed from the doorway. Blake's head snapped to the side and Selina launched. Blake saw her coming out of the corner of his eye and his hand flashed out in an attempt to block her strike, Selina leveraged over his arm and used her momentum to swing herself up. Her lead leg slipped around his neck and she whipped her upper body downward toward the floor, executing a perfect flying scissor take down.

It was the quickest Bruce had ever seen and possibly the first Blake had ever encountered. He had no defense for it. Blake was swung off his feet and slammed hard onto the unpadded floor. Selina rolled neatly up on top of his chest and smiled down at him, her thighs still firmly wrapped around his neck. "Never loose your focus little Robin you'll get your wings clipped." His hands gripped her thighs as he tried to pry her loose and clear an airway to breath.

Alfred shook his head as Bruce stalked over to the two combatants. He grasped Selina's elbow and hoisted her to her feet. He gave her a look smoldering look as she kissed his cheek. "Welcome home handsome."

Bruce growled his displeasure as he collected Blake off the floor, pulling him to his feet with a one hand as he held Selina against him with the other. "I don't suppose I need ask if you two have been playing nice while I was at work."

Blake managed to look contrite as he stood in front of his mentor. Selina however was unapologetic. She smiled brilliantly up at him as she panted breathlessly. She kissed him resounding on the lips. "Bout time you called it a day Wayne. I thought I was going to have to drive up there and bring you home myself." She patted Bruce's chest and turned quickly away bopping over to where Alfred was now holding out a towel and her warm-up jacket."

Alfred gave her a disapproving look of his own, "I must reiterate Ms. Kyle, I disapprove of such exertion while your bones are mending."

Selina smiled, "Sorry Sir Alfred. I couldn't have lived with myself if Blake hadn't got taken down a peg." Selina sealed the apology with a kiss on his cheek and whispered under her breath, "Did you see that, Alfred? It was awesome wasn't it?"

Alfred gave her a wink and whispered back, "Quite so, Ms. Kyle." Selina laughed and slapped Alfred a high-five as she walked out of the room. Alfred called over his shoulder, "Dinner in 20 minutes, miss."

x

Exactly twenty minutes later Alfred ushered the two men from the dojo into the formal dining room. Both were still discussing what Blake had learned facing Selina. The young man was intent on finding a defense to the maneuver that she had used on him. From what he had conveyed to Bruce Selina had been duly impressed with his level of performance. Blake had promised Bruce that they went through forms and the only take down that had occurred was the one he had witnessed for himself.

Bruce had to hide a smile when Blake told him that Selina had promised to continue his lessons with rope maneuvers and climbing skills after her arm healed. Wayne decided not to call attention to the fledging friendship that seemed to be emerging between the two. He also managed to contain the twinge of jealousy that immediately followed when Blake gush over how athletic and strong Selina had proven herself to be. The image of Selina's legs wrapped around Blake's neck as she straddled his chest was intimate enough to haunt him forever as it were.

Speak of the devil. Selina walked into the room with a smile. She had obviously showered; her hair was still damp, wound in a loose ponytail. She was barefoot wearing simple black yoga pants and a navy tank top. Bruce hesitated mid sentence when she walked in loosing completely his train of thought. Blake's lips lifted into a knowing smile as he watched Selina Kyle take apart his mentor without ever lifting a finger. Realizing he had lost Bruce's attention, Blake patted his back, "Good talk Bruce. We can finish later." Blake took his place at the table leaving a place at the head and one to the immediate side for Selina.

Bruce nodded at Blake not sure exactly what he agreed to as his mind had jumped track and he was focused on Selina Kyle. She had energy in her stride as she walked quickly across the thick Turkish rug that covered the floor. The long dining table was set, but with only three settings. Selina looked expectantly at Bruce as she pressed a kiss against his cheek, "Really? Alfred isn't taking dinner with us?"

Bruce shook his head as he pulled out her chair, "He never does in formal settings." Selina huffed and looked down at herself and over at Blake who had thrown on a mismatched workout suit, "This is hardly formal."

Bruce shrugged, "He's British Selina, tea in the morning is formal. " Selina's lips turned down and Bruce smiled. She was not going to let this go. Bruce and Blake shared an amused look as Selina accepted the offered chair. Alfred walked in with the chef as the server sat the first course of soup on the table.

Selina cleared her throat and raised her brow. Alfred cocked his head and Selina inclined her head at the empty chair across from her. Alfred declined with a firm shake of his head. Selina looked at Bruce for assistance and found him absorbed in the bowl of soup in front of him. Blake looked back at her and shrugged a small smile of anticipation on his face, as he remained mute awaiting the confrontation between she and Alfred Pennyworth.

"Cowards," she muttered under her breath as she looked between the two men.

Bruce ate his soup hiding a smile behind the large spoon that he dipped into the pool of lentils. He was content to allow Selina to try to move the unmovable as it promised to be an entertaining impromptu dinner theater. This was Bruce's position right up to the point it became apparent Selina was not eating. He fixed her with an unhappy frown, "Am I to understand that you are launching a hunger protest, my dear?"

Selina raised her eyebrow, "It seems like the easiest way." She pushed her bowl aside and relaxed back in her chair.

Blake chuckled into his bowl, "Alfred won't fall for it."

Selina smirked back at him, a knowing look in her eyes as she curled her casted arm over her stomach, "It wont hurt me to cut some calories to find out. I have been eating too much since I got back to Gotham anyways."

Blake grinned, "Yeah you have. I still feel where you landed on me earlier. I think you broke my sternum."

Blake absorbed scowls from both Selina and Bruce for that particular comment. He shifted in his seat and busied himself with pulling bread from a loaf that was placed near him.

When the English butler entered, again it became apparent to Blake why Selina looked so supremely sure of herself. It was not Alfred that was the victim of her little ploy. Bruce spoke up and ended the stand-off. "Alfred I would appreciate it if you would have another place setting brought in for yourself and join us for dinner. It appears my stubborn fiancée is not eating until you are properly stationed at the table." Alfred open his mouth to reply and Bruce stopped him with a shift of his shoulders and the lift of his hand. "Alfred I have no doubt that it would be a thrilling contest to see which of you is indeed the most stubborn, but I would like the competition not to be at the dinner table and not tonight. I've had a long day. "

Alfred gave him a small nod, "Very well." Alfred tried to look put out by the demand but the soft look he gave Selina spoke volumes to how he felt about her request. She accepted the victory graciously with a small look of apology to Alfred and a furtive smile of thanks to her powerful fiancée. Bruce absorbed the look of gratitude as he slid the bowl of soup back in front of her, "You and Alfred need to come to an agreement of terms. I will not have you lapsing into a hunger protest at every meal."

Selina gave him a smile but instead of acknowledging his demand instead she addressed his admission that his day had been trying, "What happened at work, Bruce? One day of filling in for Fox seems to have put you on edge."

He nodded as he broke off a piece of bread and swirled it into his soup, "Something like that."

"Did it have anything to do with the meeting with the delegates from Islamic jihad?"

Bruce rolled his eyes, "They are hardly Islamic Jihad Selina." He let his mood lighten as her eyes sparkled in amusement. "They are just businessmen concerned with the effect an energy evolution will have on their bottom line." He smiled, "But I don't suppose I have to tell you any of that. I'm sure Fox has given you the full run down."

She shrugged, "Maybe. Fox and I hung out for a few hours today. He told me about some of the meetings you were covering for him." Selina was singularly focused on his face and Bruce worked to keep his expression neutral. This woman of mine... When she gets ahold of something she is relentless.

"Fox said they were pushing hard to have someone other than Pots appointed to head the negotiations."

Bruce wiped his lips and tossed his napkin beside his now empty bowl, "That is the long and short of it, yes."

Selina accepted his curt reply as she allowed her fingers to play with the napkin in her lap. Blake's interest was peaked enough that he broached a question. "Is their opposition to Pepper just cultural bias or is she really breaking their balls?"

Selina laughed and Bruce's lips twisted into a wiry smile, "A lot of both if I'm reading things correctly.

Blake nodded, "That was pretty much the impression the news gave when they were reporting on the progress of the energy initiative yesterday. Reporters were going on and on about the possibilities of your technology replacing fossil fuels and the impact on the world economy. Then they went right into this big piece about the oil conglomerates calling a meeting with Stark industries last week and were all bent out of shape because Stark wouldn't see them personally and they had to deal with a female CEO."

Selina watched Bruce's face as Blake spoke. She had spent the afternoon with Fox looking at that same expression on his face as he talked of Pepper Pots. A mix of respect and affection that was obvious and endearing. She would have been a liar if she had said she didn't feel more than a pang of jealousy that another woman could put that soft smile on Bruce Wayne's face, hell she had been put out that Fox had liked her so much. Selina stomped down the unsettling jealousy and consoled herself that she was wearing Bruce Wayne's diamond and sharing his bed. Pepper Pots was not a threat, she was an alley and a friend to the men Selina held most dear. She needed to suck it up and celebrate the fact Bruce Wayne had someone he respected and trusted the way he did Pepper Pots and not screw it up over petty female rivalries.

Wayne sat back in his chair as the bowls were cleared and plates of fresh pork tenderloin were served. Another setting was placed and Alfred sat down across from Selina. She was the last served as her untouched bowl of soup disappeared onto a try with Alfred watching on in disapproval. A bowl of Mediterranean Couscous and tomatoes was sat in front of her along with a plate filled with a colorful beet salad.

Alfred gave her an appraising look as he waited for her to begin before he picked up his own fork and with a huff joined them in the meal. With Selina's first bite the hunger crisis was ended allowing Bruce to turn his attention back to Blake. "Did your news report say anything else about the negotiations?"

Blake smiled, "Only that they were so dissatisfied with the proceedings that they jumped a jet and were headed for Gotham City for a face to face with Fox. " Blake smiled, "Or you rather." He chuckled, "My favorite part though was the quote from Potts. Supposedly an insider at Stark industries told a reporter that Pepper at one point halted the meeting because the Middle Eastern reps were addressing questions to some guy rather than to her."

Bruce nodded as he swallowed, "That would be Marcus Broyles the vice president of our overseas operations."

Blake shrugged as the person involved was less of interest to him than the quote from Pepper, "Maybe so, but here is the funny part. Supposedly Pepper halted the meeting and told them that if they chose to disrespect her again by directing a question to her subordinate that she would and this is it, 'Eighty-six the entire overseas deal and if that happened they had better have a way to turn crude oil into a palatable food source because in five years no one in the world would be using it for fuel anymore."

Bruce sipped water from his cut crystal glass, "That doesn't sound like Pepper. She has a little more decorum than that."

Selina watched him with a critical eye as she called him out, "So they came to Gotham and got their meeting with you today then?"

Bruce sat the glass down and focused on Selina not liking the disapproval he saw in her earthy brown eyes. "They did." Selina did not say anything; she just looked at him as if she was waiting for the rest of the story. Bruce lifted his knife and fork and sliced through the tender meat. The juices ran clear onto the heavy white plate. The aroma was tinged with the scent of fresh herbs. Bruce took a bite and chewed slowly savoring the flavor. He finally swallowed, "Give my compliments to the chef, Alfred."

Alfred who had remained silent until this point finally spoke. "By giving an audience to those men you have set a precedents that undermines Ms. Potts authority. They undoubtedly will look to circumvent her at every turn going forward, Maser Wayne."

Bruce took a sample of the scalloped potatoes from his fork and chewed thoughtfully as Alfred made his opinion known. Bruce glanced back at Selina and was not surprised to see her eyes still fixated on him as she waited calmly for his explanation. He gestured to her plate, "Eat up Selina, before it gets cold."

Selina's lips showed the barest hint of a smile, "Mine is served chilled."

Bruce smirked as he cut off another bite of his warm entrée, he paused the fork near his lips, "Something on your mind Selina? Something you want to ask me, perhaps?" His eyes held hers as he took the bite of food into his mouth.

She shook her head and leaned back in her chair, "Just waiting for you to tell us what really happened." Bruce suppressed another smile and Selina shook her head as her eyes narrowed, "You pulled something today. It is written all over you, Wayne." She lifted her glass of wine and took a sip as she looked over to Alfred, "Do you believe for a minute that he hung Pepper out to dry like that?" Her eyes flicked back to Bruce roving over his face as she searched out the truth. " You might as well tell us what you did. You are obviously pretty proud of yourself, whatever it was."

Bruce felt that familiar twist in his chest as he looked at Selina. He sat the heavy silver knife down and took another draw of water before he spoke. " I did meet with them. They were shown to a conference room and Pepper joined us via satellite from California." He glanced over at Alfred, "We used the video conference room on sixty-eight. You remember that one don't you Alfred?"

Alfred's frown disappeared and the lines lessened across his forehead and then he laughed aloud. Blake paused in mid bite at the unexpected reaction of the normally unflappable butler. It was not just a polite titter from Alfred, it was an out and out hold your belly until tears fell laugh. Selina shared a look of disbelief with Blake as they were obviously not privy to the inside humor that had elicited such a reaction from Alfred Pennyworth. Regardless that they were left out of the loop they were both helpless not to smile and laugh along with Alfred. Selina looked back at Bruce and her interest increased as she took in his self-satisfied look. "Alright what's the joke, Wayne?"

Bruce chuckled as he watched Alfred try to compose himself and fail lapsing into another bout of laughter. Alfred just managed to choke out, "I hope the video feed was in High definition."

Bruce beamed at his butler, "And surround sound." Alfred laughed again and nodded his head in approval. Bruce looked at Selina eyes twinkling, "The video conference room on that floor has a flat LED monitor the size of a movie theater screen. Pepper Pots lead the meeting sitting twenty-two feet tall and her voice was carried via Dolby's speaker system through the conference room. It was one of the high points in my career at WE, watching a room full of Oilmen looking up at that monitor while Pepper Pots told them the future of clean energy. "

Selina watched him relive that moment with them and it hit her again, how much she loved him. She listened proudly as she realized one of the highest points in his career was helping a colleague have a high point in hers. Selina knew the back-story on this from Fox. She had listened to him worry the afternoon away over Pepper and if she would make the decision to stick it out as head of the Energy division. He had told Selina that Bruce would be the only person that could have persuaded her to stay. Selina found herself rooting for her hoping that Bruce would be successful in convincing her to stay. The idea of her being forced out of position because of sexist stereotypes and bias disgusted her.

Selina looked at Bruce and the clarity with which she suddenly saw him was nearly painful. His dark hair coiffed perfectly, his strong shoulders set as he braced his forearms against the table edge... the small bead of water that traveled over his finger from the condensation on his glass, the crinkles at the corner of his eyes as he smiled. God help me... The need she had for him slammed into her and left her breathless and shaky. She swallowed and her throat clicked dryly.

Whatever look she had on her face that moment Bruce read it perfectly. His face darkened when his eyes met hers and his jaw clinched for the briefest of moments. He sat the glass on the table and wiped his mouth with a napkin. " We need to get moving. Blake we still on for the Bowery tonight?"

Blake nodded as he chewed oblivious to the exchange between the couple. Alfred was busy with the server who had entered the room so he missed Bruce's eyes raking over Selina. She sat up straighter in her chair. Her eyes dilated as she watched Bruce's reaction. Bruce could feel her need for him from across the table. His stomach clinched and it became everything he had not to call her over to him. It was electric the energy that sparked off her. He shut his eyes for a long second and steeled himself for the effort it would take to make a somewhat civilized exit from the room.

He opened his eyes and inclined his head to the door. It was the smallest of invitations but it spoke volumes to Selina when accompanied by the look in his eyes. They said everything she wanted to hear. I need you ... now. Selina felt her lips turn up at the corners as she inhaled deeply. She hoped he received her message as clearly as her eyes flashed, "I won't make you late, handsome. Quick and hard."

Blake was saying something but Selina had no idea what it was and just hoped it was not a question directed to her, as she was not fit to answer at this point. She reached for her glass with an unsteady hand and took a long sip of wine to calm her.

Bruce's voice answered Blake, "They are trying to leverage me against Stark. They know the financial bind that WE is in right now and they brought plenty of money to the negotiations along with promises of very lucrative deals in the future if I were to agree to put the energy initiative on the back burner. When I didn't bite they came with threats." He glanced over at Selina nearly startling her out of her erotic daydream, "I don't mean to rush your recovery Selina, but I am in immediate need your skill set. Security at WE must be tightened. Rework it completely if you feel it necessary. These men are not necessarily to be feared, but with negotiations failing they could quickly become desperate."

He pushed his plate away as if the thought of food no longer appealed to him. "We are going to need to step up the security at Wayne tower and our local affiliates as well. The system here at the Manor is one of the best I have seen." He looked at Selina with pride, "We need something comparative on the penthouses and our other properties right away." Bruce did not miss the look of concern on Alfred's face. "There has been nothing specific directed at myself or Wayne Enterprises, but I am not taking chances. The safety of my employees and all of you are my first priorities."

Selina's face was unreadable as she responded, "I've got it."

Bruce didn't even have time to register the similarity to Pepper's acceptance or make another attempt to get her upstairs before a chorus of rings began around the table as everyone's cell phones began a garbled mix of alerts and alarms. Bruce grabbed his off the table; it was a text from Gordon. 'He made his move. Powdery substance found in envelopes mailed to the courthouse. Joker cards found inside. Two clerks and one judge dead.'

Bruce stood his eyes locking with Blake, "We're on."

x

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Alright reviews needed! Even if you hated it I wanna know!

-Slingblade-