Summary: Dick Grayson is getting married! He invites his former team members and friends — along with his ex —who shows up to the reception with a little surprise of her own.
Note: This is an alternate DC universe, (very) loosely based on several comic and animated universes. In this world, Starfire is her own hero protecting her own city nearby Gotham. Her planet is destroyed, so she returns after a few years, and she's living her life on Earth as she has always dreamed (because Starfire deserves happiness too). As a stipulation for her stay on Earth and running her own city, the Justice League appointed her a mentor and sponsor, Batman. This story, however, is told from Dick's perspective (because why not?). I hope you enjoy the read!
"How does it feel to officially be a married man?"
It was the fourth time Dick was asked since the reception started. He did his best to refrain from rolling his eyes. Instead, he smiled and took a sip of his wine before answering. "Like I've closed a chapter in my life."
It wasn't a lie. He was the happiest he's been in years since calling Blüdhaven his home. He had a successful routine, his girl—wife. He felt like he was on top of the world.
His eyes scanned the crowd for that pinned-up red hair and white party dress Barbara was wearing. She was standing with a few ladies, Cassandra and Donna being two of them. He watched as she used Cassandra's shoulders to support the burst of laughter that escaped her mouth.
"You're living the life," Victor said, raising his glass in salute.
Dick certainly was. Surrounded by his friends, people he considered family, it was more than he could ask for. He was grateful.
He and Barbara had decided to do two weddings—one for the "public" eye, which held few people and allowed Commissioner Gordon to walk his daughter down the aisle, and a second private wedding for all the super friends to feel comfortable mingling amongst themselves. At that wedding, Bruce walked her down the aisle.
It was perfect and just the way they had planned.
A few Justice League members like Diana and Clark had passed through during the nuptial reads to pay their respects and congratulate them before returning to base. Some heroes couldn't make it due to other obligations, which was understandable.
"We should get a picture with everyone later," Victor mentioned.
"Not just everybody, the original Titans," chimed in Garfield. He slid before them, a drink of his own in hand.
"I second that," Wally said from behind Garfield. They all dressed in midnight blue and black tuxedos as part of the groomsmen theme, while the bridesmaids dressed in black and gold. Most of the heroes not a part of the wedding chose to stay in theme out of respect. Others came in their costumes, which was fine with Dick.
"We can do that later if everyone is here."
Garfield looked around the room to verify. "Everyone is here, I think. Raven's in the bathroom, and Roy got here not too long ago. The rest are around here somewhere."
"Except for one. That just leaves…" Victor trailed off.
Dick's eyes roamed the room for another redhead he'd hoped would come. He ignored the slight pang of hurt when he didn't find her. Before the vows, he had looked for her in the crowd, hoping she would at least show for the reception. "She didn't come," he said more to himself but loud enough for the others to hear. They didn't mistake the morbid undertone in his voice.
It was quiet for a moment amongst the group until Victor said, "Maybe she got busy, you know, with being the boss lady of her own city now. It can't be that easy to find a replacement."
Garfield nodded in agreement. "True. She could just be running late. It can't be easy traveling while—"
"Gar! Remember that thing I wanted to show you earlier? We should go look at it now, right?" Victor suddenly asked, his eyes wide and pleading for him to take the hint to shut up.
Garfield looked at him quizzically before his own eyes grew large in acknowledgment. "Right! Let's go!"
Without another word to either Wally or Dick, they hurried away, hush whispers passing between them before disappearing into the crowd.
Dick turned to Wally. "Am I missing something? That was strange, even for them."
Wally held up his hands in defense. "Don't look at me. Whatever those two got going on is occurring in their own world."
Dick mulled over the conversation, wondering what was so secret and how it related to Kory. He shook his head to rid his thoughts and tried to change the subject. "How's Linda and the kids?"
Wally sighed and sat at one of the bar stools, Dick following suit. "Better. The nightmares stopped for the kids, but it'll be a while before things return to normal again. Linda, though, is still a bit shaken up."
Several months back, the kids were kidnapped by a rising crime boss who had figured out Wally's identity. Though they were unharmed in the long run due to Linda and Wally getting to the hideout in time, it had taken a toll on the family and their recovery.
Dick rested a hand on his friend's shoulder in support. "Send them my love. It can't be easy for them, especially Linda."
Wally smiled weakly. "No, it isn't. But they're strong, and they'll mentally heal gradually."
A ringtone sounded in Wally's suit pocket. He pulled it out to see "Linda" flashing on the screen. "Speaking of my angel, excuse me."
Wally left him at the bar nursing his drink and his thoughts.
The venue was huge, and outside of the constant music, all that could be heard was chatter. His friends all seemed to be happy to see each other. It wasn't often they got together to mingle. Dick would have to change that in the future.
A pair of arms circled his neck from behind, the culprit planting a kiss on the side of his mouth. "Hi, husband of mine."
Dick smiled and turned to face Barbara. "Hi, wifey."
She scrunched her nose and removed her arms from his neck to cross them over her chest. "Ew! Don't say it like that. It sounds weird."
"What? Wifey? Sounds like music to my ears," Dick joked as he pulled her closer by the waist until she was between his legs.
"Not when you say it like that."
Dick leaned in to kiss her which she responded by wrapping her arms around his neck again. "We should dance later," he said as they pulled apart, effectively changing the subject.
"You fussed when we had to do our first dance as husband and wife. Now you want to dance?"
"I changed my mind. Sue me." He planted another kiss on her lips. "Besides, I know you love dancing, and I'll do anything for you."
Barbara smiled. "You're so corny. Just say you enjoyed it."
Dick turned his head in defiance. "Never."
"Don't make me rip up the marriage certificate."
"You wouldn't dare."
She pretended to ponder the decision, her forefinger on her chin, eyes in the sky. Then she turned to him with a cheeky look. "You're right. I wouldn't dare."
They got close again but jumped apart when someone yelled, "Save it for the honeymoon! Give her lips a rest!" Cassandra popped up behind Barbara.
"She attacked my lips first," Dick said in defense. Barbara whacked him on his arm, her eyes calling him a betrayer.
"Regardless, the groom always gets the blame. Babs, we have loads of catching up to do before you disappear into the wind with Wing-ding here. Come on, let's go."
As Cassandra dragged her away, Barbara mouthed, "Save me!" Dick responded with laughter as he waved her goodbye.
"Talk about a gag."
Jason appeared beside him, sporting a beer in hand. "What's to gag about? This could be you one day."
Jason scuffed. "Highly doubt it. Being legally bonded to someone has never sounded particularly fun."
His brother, always the morbid one.
"You'll change your mind one day."
"As if. I'd like to keep the 'fuck-em and leave-em' persona for a bit longer."
Dick scrunched his nose. "TMI, Jason."
"Says the dude with the playboy persona."
"That was for the public eye."
"Not according to the number of exes you have. I'm sure even the one entering now would agree," Jason said as he tilted his head to the entrance.
There was a bit of commotion at the door as a small crowd grew larger by the second, blocking Dick's view. But with her height, he could see her blazing red hair. He knew exactly who it was. He couldn't mistake the sigh of relief and the smidge of joy that spread through his chest.
Kory came.
"I thought for sure she was going to bail," Jason said as he took a swig of his beer. "You should go say hi. It's rude not to greet your guests."
"Guests?" Dick asked, his eyebrows furrowed.
A sly grin formed on his lips. "You'll see," was all he said.
Jason's words left him uneasy, but he chalked it up to Jason just being an asshole. A part of him had never gotten over the fact that Jason and Kory had developed a deep, unexplainable bond since their time as the Outlaws. He knew they kept in touch regularly based on the information Jason occasionally let slip about her during conversations.
It was different than how he felt when he heard she and Roy had briefly dated. It had hurt at the time, but the distance helped him not think about it. With Jason being around him more now, it was like a slap in the face. Like he was constantly being taunted by the fact that she found someone close to him that she could feel more comfortable with to talk to and share her day. Like he was easily that replaceable.
Dick hadn't heard from her in years, not since their time together had ended. All he knew was that she traveled back and forth from Tamaran for a few years until the Outlaws formed. After the Outlaws broke up, she left for Tamaran again, but the planet had gotten destroyed during an intergalactic war. She's been on Earth ever since—almost two years.
He wasn't privy to the details of her transition back to Earth due to her file being heavily encrypted by the Justice League, but somehow Bruce had advocated her official independency as a hero in a neighboring city to Gotham. She was also helping the local police task force to handle the sudden migration of some of Gotham's finest "crazies."
Dick swiveled back to the bar, adding a barrier between himself and the entrance, and instead, downed the rest of his wine.
Jason eyed him with amusement. "You don't seem excited she's here. I figured you'd be the first by the door."
Jason was looking for a reaction that he wasn't going to get. Not to mention, Jason was far from the truth. "I'm sure everyone wants time with her. She hasn't been around for a while. I'll wait."
Jason squinted at him. "Sure."
If Dick sat there any longer, he would punch Jason in the face, which would ruin his night. So, he decided to leave.
"Finally growing balls. Thatta boy!" Jason yelled from him, raising his beer in salute, capturing the attention of some heroes sitting by the bar. Dick shook his head as he continued nowhere.
He wasn't ready to submerge in the crowd surrounding Kory yet, though his curiosity as to why there was one was killing him. Between Victor and Garfield acting strange earlier and Jason being Jason, he was starting to feel a little out of the loop. Or maybe he was overthinking it all. Perhaps the heroes really missed her that much?
He turned to see if he could get a better look at her but caught a face beside her he couldn't quite place. Was it one of their friends' out of costume? Or was this the "guest" Jason was referring to?
"You curious about that crowd, too?" Dick turned to find Roy.
"Yes and no," Dick answered honestly.
"Curiosity did kill the cat," Roy joked.
Dick absentmindedly chuckled. "That it did."
"Though, I could see why they'd go crazy over her." Dick didn't mistake the faraway look in Roy's eyes. Suddenly, he was reminded of their history again.
Dick shifted uncomfortably but decided to change the subject. He hesitated as he tried to get a better look before asking, "Do you know who that is with her?"
Roy frowned, glancing at the crowd before shaking his head. "No, I don't. Doesn't look like one of the heroes. I didn't know she was bringing a date, or even coming, for that matter. Should he even be here with most of us exposed?"
It was a good question. Bruce monitored the entire event, even as he walked around mingling. Surely, he would've caught the new face? Or maybe it was someone Bruce trusted? Either way, Dick decided he keep his guard up.
"Maybe it's someone who knows us, but we don't know him. That happens sometimes. I doubt Kory would invite someone who didn't know who we were, let alone Bruce letting them in," Roy offered.
He had a point. Roy continued, "It's been years since I've last seen her. Since anyone has, outside of who she lets her circle. I hear she's protecting her own city now?"
Dick nodded. "Yeah, though I'm a little in the dark about it all."
It was true. Any information he not-so-discretely tried to get out of Bruce was futile. His adoptive father was tight-lipped about his dealings with Kory and the agreement with the Justice League. Even the media was having a hard time spotting her around the neighboring city she was protecting lately, which was odd.
He wanted to know so much more, and he could likely push the envelope for answers, but he knew better than to go down that path. It was her life, he was no longer a part of it, and he had no right to snoop around. Not to mention, it would send the wrong message to Barbara if she ever found out, which she would.
Spying on his ex was a big no-no.
"Oliver mentioned some of Gotham's villains are migrating to other cities. What's that about?"
"I don't know. A few showed up in Blüdhaven and around neighboring cities. Bruce is trying to figure out why, but he suspects someone is driving them out. Someone likely more dangerous working behind the scenes. I haven't had a chance to help him investigate yet. My hands are already full with Blüdhaven."
"Well, if you need any help…." Roy offered.
"You'll be the first I call. Granted, if Lian will let you leave," Dick said with a grin.
Roy scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "She sure wants her dad home a lot more."
"She misses you. That can't be a bad thing."
"It's not. She just doesn't understand she can't be everywhere I am. It's sweet because I know she'll grow out of it one day and want nothing to do with me. But she doesn't want to understand why I have to leave all the time or why I have to do what I'm doing."
Dick patted his friend on the shoulder. "She'll come around soon."
"Hopefully. So, what's the next step after this? First comes marriage, then comes…."
Dick could feel the heat rushing to his face. "I'm taking it one day at a time. My mind is far from kids right now."
"But you do want them?" Roy asked.
Dick thought for a moment. "Eventually," he admitted. "But starting a family means giving up the suit, and I'm not ready for that any time soon."
"Have you and Barbara talked about it at all?"
"Not really. But I don't think she's ready for that yet either."
Roy shrugged. "All I'll say is having a kid doesn't mean you have to give up your life. Look at me. Look at Wally."
Dick was firm on his decision. "I just can't take that risk right now." His mind flashed to a moment in time when his take on having kids was completely opposite. When he welcomed that thought of holding her hand—
He quickly shook the thought away.
"Whatever feels right for you and Barbara. Just remember to remind yourself while you're on your honeymoon and things get a little wild," Roy said, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively, making Dick blush.
"I'll keep that in mind."
"Where are you going for your honeymoon anyway?"
"Maui."
Dick had never been to Hawaii, and neither had Barbara. It was at the top of their bucket lists. It was partially why he had decided to have the wedding and reception in Jump City for lighter travel to the island.
"Two weeks? I can't see you being away from the suit that long."
Roy knew him too well. "A week at most. I can't leave Blüdhaven for that long. That wouldn't be fair to Bruce."
A peculiar look crossed Roy's face. "I thought he got someone else to cover Blüdhaven."
It was Dick's turn to look puzzled. "Where's you hear that? Bruce never said anything to me about it."
Roy shrugged. "Overheard a conversation he was having with Superman when he was here."
"Huh," was all Dick could manage to say. He and Bruce certainly needed to talk.
At some point, Dick turned away from the guests at the entrance, unaware the crowd had thinned. He scanned the room out of habit as he looked over his shoulder, watching the few still around Kory animatedly speaking. Raven and Donna mostly blocked her from his view, but he could still see her face. Her smile radiated even from across the room. She was glowing in a way he couldn't explain.
Her hair was pinned to the side, elegantly flowing down her right shoulder in spirals. Her dress, from what Dick could see, was midnight blue. It sparkled in the lights above her head.
He smiled at that. Either she didn't get the color coordination memo, or she just didn't care.
"She looks beautiful, doesn't she?"
Dick didn't answer. He knew better than to. But his smile slipped as her "date" moved closer to her after Victor and Garfield had left the group. Dick could see him fully now.
He wore a white button-up dress shirt under a black tuxedo. His brown hair was combed back neatly, but tuffs of curls billowed at the base of his neck, a piece defying his style near his temple. He stood at Kory's height, towering over most of the girls still crowding Kory's space. He looked like the poster child for prim and proper.
With a better view of him, Dick still couldn't place where he'd seen him before, but he was starting to look familiar.
As if sensing his turmoil, Bruce suddenly appeared next to them, a champagne flute resting between his fingers. He was out and about in true Bruce Wayne form, his need for disguise unneeded at an event all knew each other's history over the years.
"That's Detective Julius Amari. You might've crossed paths or seen him in the media a few times recently for his task force taking down Killer Croc. He heads MHC with Kory now over in Hartfield. And he's Kory's plus one. Not to mention, your cover while you're on honeymoon."
Ah, now Dick remembered. They had crossed paths once when Dick briefly worked as a real detective. Julius was around his age but was highly skilled from what he'd heard. Even at his age, he was highly regarded across multiple cities and damn good at his job. His stats were remarkable.
Not better than my record, Dick thought.
"About that—"
Bruce shook his head. "Not here. We'll discuss the terms of their coverage after the reception."
"What's MHC?" Roy interjected.
"Meta-Human Criminal Task Force. The new team I suggested to several city officials to oversee to get more skilled involvement in taking down low-to-mid level powered criminals the regular police force can't handle, and other heroes don't have time for," Bruce answered.
"I get he's Kory's plus one, but why's he here?" Dick realized his question came out harder than he initially intended. "Are you not concerned we're all exposed in front of him? Just because he's a detective doesn't mean we should trust him."
Bruce showed no concern as he took a quick sip from his glass. "He already knows our identity. Figured it out years ago, so he tells it. It was partly why I recommended he work with Kory on the task force. I can keep an eye on him, and her, for that matter."
"Yeah, but still…" Roy started, a frown shaping his face.
"He's vetted. Back off," Bruce warned. Roy held up his hand and didn't say another word. As Raven and Donna finally moved, Bruce turned to Dick, his eyes slightly softening, saying, "Dick, there's something you should know, Kory's—"
Dick couldn't hear Bruce's following words as he could finally see her come fully into view. Her fit was simple—a spaghetti-strapped midnight blue gown that clung to her bodice, a split exposing her long legs and small black heels. The blue color accentuated her orange tint so beautifully. It was a color he admired on her way back when. She looked breathtaking. But he paused; his breath caught in his throat.
Julius snaked his arm around her waist, Kory leaning into him with familiarity, a shy smile gracing her lips. Julius smiled back at her as if they were sharing their own secret. His hand raised to her belly to rub it affectionately.
It was only then he realized the bump.
"Pregnant," Dick managed to choke out. He took a step back like he'd been slapped. His legs felt like someone had pulled a rug from under his feet.
Roy was also speechless next to him. Had this been what all the cryptic behavior had been about all night? If he had felt out of the loop before, he felt like he was in a different world now, apart from everyone else who knew this big secret he wasn't supposed to know.
Bruce eyed his son, a flash of concern and something else appearing in his eyes before it disappeared. He turned and waved them over. Julius caught the signal and pulled a distracted Kory over to them.
How long had Bruce known? Victor, Garfield? If they knew about it, the girls did, too. And from Jason's taunting earlier, Dick was positive he'd known about it for it a while.
So many thoughts were racing through Dick's mind as he watched them slowly approach. They got stopped a few times by some people that weren't initially in the crowd earlier. A sinking feeling bubbled in his stomach, and it only got worse as they neared until they—she—was standing right in front of him.
Dick couldn't help but stare at her. He wasn't even sure if he blinked. Anyone looking at him now would likely think he resembled a deer caught in headlights. Bruce discretely elbowed him back to reality.
Bruce nodded to both. "Kory. Julius. Glad to see you two had a safe travel. I trust the pilot and chauffer treated you well?" Bruce was leaning heavily on his hospitable persona.
Wait, did he suggest they flew over in a private plane?
Kory's eyes brightened with glee. She had yet to look at Dick which was bugging him greatly. "Oh, yes! The flight was most comfortable. I never knew a plane ride could be so enjoyable."
Bruce genuinely smiled. "Much different from your usual means of travel, I'm sure. With your current… predicament," he looked down at her belly for emphasis, "I figured we shouldn't risk unnecessary harm by having you fly on your own."
Unexpectedly, Kory detached herself from Julius to hug Bruce. He visibly stiffened before patting her back awkwardly, not wanting to be impolite. "I am very grateful for your thoughtfulness," she said as she detangled herself from him. Bruce stepped back and cleared his throat, clearly a little stumped.
Julius stepped forward, shaking Bruce's hand. "Yes, thank you. Though please accept our apologies for the tardiness. Kory had unexpectedly gotten sick after we landed. I wanted to ensure she was okay before we drove off the lot."
Julius shared a tender look with Kory. Dick frowned, concern marring his face. She was getting sick? Was it safe for her to travel?
Julius held out his hand to Dick. "I don't think we've officially met," Julius said. Dick looked at his hand for a moment before taking it. He smiled politely, but it didn't reach his eyes like he intended. Dick had to refrain from squeezing his hand. "Excuse my rudeness. I'm Julius Amari. It's an honor to meet you guys, truly," Julius directed to both Roy and Dick as Julius reached out to Roy for a handshake next.
Roy recovered better than Dick did. "It's nice to meet you. It's good to see you again, Kory."
Kory smiled at Roy, "It is always a pleasure to see you, Roy." She offered him a brief hug, albeit awkward because of her stomach. "And congratulations on the wedding, Dick." Her eyes finally turned to him for the first time that night.
He had to brace himself to the floor. She offered him a meek smile, almost hesitant; her hand held out to shake his. Dick wasn't sure what to expect, but it certainly wasn't a handshake. No hug for him.
Dick buried the gnawing pit in his stomach and the growing void and took it, savoring the warmth of her hand. He gently squeezed it as if to tell her not to leave.
"Thank you. I'm… glad you came," Dick managed to say.
Kory's eyes softened. "May X'Hal bring good fortune to your betrothal."
"Thank you for that." Dick felt off-kilter.
Bruce cleared his throat, reminding Dick to release her hand. Immediately, he felt cold.
"We should be congratulating you, Kory," Roy chimed in, pointing to her stomach.
Kory blushed. Dick caught her hand moving to hold Julius's. "I thank you. It was unexpected, but we are grateful for him," she said as she rubbed her stomach.
Him. It was a boy.
Dick found himself interjecting, almost robotically, "I'm glad to see life treating you well."
"It certainly is," Kory said, turning to Julius. "It is treating us very fine."
"I'm just lucky to have her in my life," Julius countered. They shared a quick kiss, forcing Dick to look away.
As if reading the waves of uneasiness rolling off him, Bruce decided to spare him. "Well, please mingle, eat, dance, and enjoy the night."
"We will, thank you." Julius nodded to Dick and Roy as he and Kory left their group. Kory turned back briefly to glance at him before disappearing by the food stands.
Bruce turned to Dick, "It's best to get a hold of yourself, Dick. This is your wedding. Don't forget that." He didn't wait for a rebuttal before he left them.
"So… that wasn't awkward at all," Roy said, sarcasm dripping through his voice.
Dick was still looking off into the distance where Kory had gone. His head was spinning, his thoughts reeling from the entire interaction. His stomach felt like it was dragging on the floor. He needed a drink and to find Barbara to get his mind off it, if that was even possible.
"Dick, are you okay?" Roy asked when he didn't respond.
"I'm fine," Dick said as he stepped away, leaving Roy hanging. Along the way to the bar, conversations centered around Kory's "surprise" and how great she and Julius looked together. Some talks were gleeful; some were speculative. He heard his name tossed around a few times, one in particular about a lost bet for who would "knock her up" first.
It sickened him. It was all too much, so he pivoted to the bathroom down the hall instead. Thankfully, the bathroom was empty, but being left with his thoughts might've been worse. He stood in front of the mirror, his hands gripping the sink. He tried to get a grip on his emotions. He thought about his life up until this point, about Barbara and how hard he worked to be where he is. How happy he is… Was he happy?
Why was he questioning it now? That was a slippery slope he dared not to travel.
It was his wedding. Nothing was supposed to penetrate this careful bubble he had built around himself for so long. A few hours in, he could already make a case for the worst husband of all time.
"Get it together," he pleaded with himself.
He spent a few minutes, possibly longer, in the quiet convincing himself that what he was feeling was merely shock. That all his confusion was just him feeling out of the loop.
As he was splashing water on his face, the door opened.
"Roy said you might be in here."
Dick dried his face with a paper towel before he gave his attention to Wally. "Does he get three wishes for being right?" It was a stale joke that didn't bring a smile to his best friend's face. Worry, however, was evident.
"He mentioned you had a run-in with Kory and stormed off to the bathroom. Figured I'd check on you."
"Well, I'm fine. And no, I did not storm away. I just… needed a moment to myself."
He could tell Wally didn't believe him one bit. "You're not fine. You're hiding in the bathroom."
"I'm not hiding in the bathroom," Dick grumbled, offended that Wally would think that, even if he was right. "If you just came here to antagonize me, then I'll be on my way." Dick moved to walk past him, but Wally zapped in front of the door. "Wally, please—"
"We have to talk about this, Dick."
"No, we don't!" Dick exclaimed. "I told you I'm fine. Get out of my way before I make you."
Wally wouldn't budge. "I know it's Kory that's bothering you. Hell, I would be if the roles were reversed. I'd be a wreck. But you can't go back out there like this. It's not fair to Barbara."
Dick lost his fight. Wally was right. It was scary how well Wally could read him sometimes. He wouldn't be his best friend if he couldn't. But it also meant Dick couldn't hide when he wanted to.
With a sigh, he stood down. "I won't let it affect me. I promise. It just caught me off-guard."
Wally took a hard look at him. "Are you sure that's all?"
Dick didn't answer.
"Maybe it wasn't a good idea to invite her—"
"I stand by my decision to send her an invitation. It's the least I could've done. She is still a part of us. Always will be. I wanted my family here, and regardless of whether we talk or not, she is our family."
"I didn't mean it like that, Dick. Kory's like a sister to me, and I'm glad she's here. But she was more to you. I'm saying that maybe this isn't the distraction you need on your wedding day."
"Too late for that." It was far beyond the time to go back and change things. Quietly, he added, "I didn't think she would show up. I thought she'd toss the invitation and decide it wasn't worth her time. But I hoped she would show. I just needed to see her face."
"Why?"
"Because I wanted her support, as selfish and unfair as that sounds. She's… she's still important to me," Dick admitted. He couldn't look at Wally. He knew he'd be disappointed in his conflict and inner turmoil. This was something you get over before getting married.
"Do you still love her?"
Dick shook his head but not to his question. "I can't answer that, Wally."
It was Wally's turn to sigh. "This is loaded, man."
Silence befell them. The pressure left him from getting that off his chest, but now Dick had something new to figure out.
"I can't tell you how to live your life, Dick. And I certainly can't tell you how to feel. All I can say is the easiest-looking path isn't always the most fulfilling choice. Maybe you're realizing that now, though it's too late to turn back. You can't change the past, but you can make smarter choices in the future, starting with setting boundaries for yourself. For your feelings. They both deserve that."
Wally started to leave but stopped briefly, one hand propping the door open. "I'm always here if you need to talk."
Dick was left back in silence. He spent another minute mulling over Wally's words before he decided he didn't want to think anymore and headed out the door.
The thrum of music and chatter grew louder as he returned to his wedding reception. It was nearing 10 p.m., meaning more of his friends were free-spiritedly getting drunk on free liquor. The floor was packed with dancers having a bubbly time. He smiled at his support network and all the people he recruited into this family he built from the ground. He couldn't ask for a better moment.
Dick spotted Barbara heading towards him, careful not to bump into those going wild on the dance floor. His earlier conversation with Wally made him nervous with guilt. He'd spent the last hour fighting with himself about a woman who wasn't his wife on his wedding day. A woman he couldn't understand if he still loved or not.
"I finally got away from the clutches of Cassandra. I've been looking all over for you," Barbara said as she stood before him.
Dick willed his thoughts away and faced her with a smile. He took her hand and kissed the back of it but didn't let go. It wasn't as warm as he'd liked. "Bathroom break."
She quirked a brow. "That was an awfully long bathroom break. Was it the cream puffs?"
Dick chuckled. "Okay, I lied. I needed a 'people' break." It wasn't an entire lie.
Barbara didn't say anything, which he thought was strange, but he didn't question it. She changed the subject before he could overthink it. "We should get our dance out of the way before our guests get shit-faced."
"I think it's a little too late for that," Dick said, his attention to Karen and Jinx singing completely off-tune in the middle of the dance floor as they swayed together.
Barbara eyed them for a moment, amusement dancing in her eyes. "Maybe you're right. But even they aren't as bad as Gar right now."
Dick scanned the room for Garfield. Sure enough, he was being his goofy self, dancing completely erratic and off-rhythm all by himself with his eyes closed. "I'll have to get Vic to look after him later."
"Yeah, you do that; otherwise, he might hurt himself. Come on." Barbara dragged him to the middle of the dance floor before he could protest.
She wrapped her arms around his neck, drawing him close. A slow song had just begun, the frenzy around them now dead. Many headed back to their tables to watch them while others danced with their partner.
Dick was thankful there was no spotlight on them like their first dance as newlyweds. As important as it was, it made him uncomfortable to have all the attention on them. At least now, with the lights dimmed intimately, it was a little harder to see.
"I'm so glad I said yes," Barbara muttered as she laid her cheek against his chest, her eyes closed. He rested his chin on her head but didn't answer, not trusting his mouth with confliction swimming through his thoughts.
He closed his eyes and tried to bask in the moment. He tried to picture the rest of his life with the woman in his arms, the woman he always considered his best friend growing up, the one that people always suggested would be his endgame.
It would be easy and predictable. It wasn't a bad thing considering his and Barbara's lifestyle.
But he noted how he wished she was a little taller, her skin warmer, her hair redder, that she'd meld better in his arms.
Dick cracked open his eyes and snuggled Barbara closer as if that would rid his careening thoughts. The floor was mostly cleared by now, though enough were still dancing around them. His eyes roamed the room like a magnet looking for its opposite end until he spotted that red hair across the room in the arms of her mate.
They were in a corner to themselves, away from the crowd but close enough to some tables. Julius's back was to the wall with Kory pressed to his front, his arms protectively around her as he held her stomach. His face was snuggled in the crook of her neck. Her eyes were closed, a lazy smile on her face as she leaned back, her fingers intertwined with his. They rocked slowly to their own tune as if the world didn't exist outside them.
Dick couldn't help but stare, that gnawing pain shooting back in his stomach, his breath caught in his throat. His chest felt like it had ripped open. He didn't realize he'd stopped moving until Barbara lifted her head to look at him with concern.
"What's wrong? You look pale."
Dick snapped his eyes to hers before she could follow his line of sight. "Nothing. Just thirsty. You want a drink?"
Barbara was smart enough to see through his façade. But even with her slight frown, she didn't press him. Instead, she gave him an out. "No, I've had enough for tonight. But I need a bathroom break, so maybe you can drink one for me?"
"Sure…" She didn't want to hear his answer before she disappeared down the same hall he had come from earlier.
He didn't dare look back at Kory as he made his way to the bar. But like last time, he pivoted elsewhere, eyeing the gift table. Gifts were stacked across the top and bottom, and boxes of all sizes were scattered against the wall. When the time came, he would likely need a box truck to move them out of the venue.
Dick spied a small-sized black rectangular box stashed at the end of the table and grabbed it, unsure what compelled him to do so. It was the smallest gift there, and there was no visible tag like the others to indicate who it was from. He figured perhaps someone had left it on the table by accident.
There was something stuck to the bottom of it. He turned it over to see a small, folded note taped to the other side of the velvet box with only his name on it. He looked around to make sure no one was watching before he opened it to read.
This gift belongs to one who truly deserves to wear it, but only you can give it to her. She is your future, and as such, she deserves to carry your lineage through generations to come. Please accept this return, for I am no longer the rightful owner of such a fine gift.
For new, happier memories.
Peace & Love,
Dick knew Kory's handwriting before he even made it down to her signature sign-off. Only she could draw a perfect star. He drew a breath, his curiosity getting the best of him, and opened the box.
He almost dropped it when he saw what was inside—his mother's sapphire diamond barrette. He picked it out of the box with delicate fingers and admired it. It looked just as beautiful as the day he got it from his mother when he was young. He remembered her words, "Only someone who has truly captured your heart should wear this. Until then, carry it with you always."
The barrette was made from real blue sapphire diamonds and gold. His father gifted it to her when they married before he was born.
Dick also remembered the day he gave it to Kory—the first time he told her he loved her when she had come to Gotham with him. They had spent the night on the mansion's roof under the stars, sharing all their secrets. When it felt like he couldn't breathe unless she were by his side. She had refused it at first, feeling like she didn't deserve to carry such weight. But only after he had spent the remainder of the night expressing in so many ways that she was the light at the end of his dark tunnel did she accept it.
It was meant to be given as a wedding gift from the groom to his forever bride, but he was sure she was the end of line for him at that time.
The barrette felt heavy in his hands with the memories and promises attached to it. He felt he had failed his mother's words. Footsteps sounded behind him, so he quickly stashed the barrette back in the box and stuffed it and the note into his suit pocket. He turned to find a tipsy Donna with her hands on her hip.
"Snooping through your presents, Grayson? Because I'll have you know, I didn't know what to get you both, so if you found it and you're disappointed, that's too damn bad."
"I wasn't snooping." It was probably the worst and most blatant lie he could've told, but it was the only thing that slipped from his mouth.
"For the world's greatest detective—outside of Batman and maybe Julius?—you're terrible at lying. Don't they teach Lying 101 in detective school?"
Dick's jaw hardened at the mention of Julius's name. "Is there something you need, Donna?"
She waved off his sudden aggressive tone. "Come on, spoilsport. We're going for a drink so you can loosen that tight ass of yours. Besides, I owe you since my gift was crappy."
Dick ignored her crass comment. "The bar is free."
"Well, pretend like I'm paying for it, dammit. Come on!"
He didn't resist when Donna pulled him to his earlier destination. One thing he knew better than was to fight Donna on a subject. Even when wrong, she'd still make herself right. That and she could snap him in two if she wanted.
Victor was behind the bar as they approached. He saw the question in Dick's eye and said, "Someone's gotta monitor everyone's drinking. Not to mention, I think Gar has gone off the rails tonight."
Dick's mind flashed to Gar earlier on the dance floor. "Good thinking."
Donna tapped the counter to get the attention back to her. "Um, excuse me, bartender? I need a martini for my friend and I," she gestured to Dick.
Victor rolled his eye at her performance but slid over two small glasses of alcohol.
"I hate martinis," Dick gripped.
"No one cares." Donna picked up her glass and clinked it with Dick's before downing the contents. "Drink up! You're going to need it."
Dick frowned. "Why would I need it?"
"Because, as your friend, I know you're hurting, and I plan to lessen it by giving you the scoop on Mr. Perfect over there." Donna pointed across the room where Julius was conversing with Jason and Roy. Roy's demeanor was a stark contrast to his earlier behavior. He must've gotten over his shock. That was more than Dick had done all night. He had no plans to cross paths with Julius again if he could help it. Dick didn't hate the guy—he didn't know him enough to dislike him— but he certainly had nothing to say to him, either. And he definitely didn't want to hear his name all night.
Dick gulped his drink. Maybe he did need it after all. "I don't care to know anything."
Donna pouted, "Oh, come on. Everyone's a little curious about the dirt on their ex's new flame." Dick signaled for Victor to pour more liquor into his cup. Victor lifted an eyebrow but didn't say anything as he filled it up. He let the contents slide down his throat, ignoring the nasty aftertaste.
Victor gave Donna a look of disapproval which she ignored.
"Not in the least."
"Not even a little? Maybe if you knew why he left Greenville PD—"
"Donna! I said no, okay? I don't care, and it's none of our business. Please respect my wishes and Kory's relationship privacy. That's what a friend does."
Donna's cheeks were rosy, but he couldn't tell if it was because she was borderline drunk or embarrassed. She opened her mouth to say something but was interrupted by Garfield yelling, "Group photo, everyone!" He captured the audience of everyone in the room, Donna included.
"I want a photo!" As if she completely forgot her conversation with Dick, she hightailed it off to the growing crowd around Garfield.
Victor shook his head. "Saved by the loudmouth." He slid over a bottle of water for Dick and took the empty glass from his hand.
Dick offered a weak smile. "Thank you."
Victor came from behind the bar and stood near his friend, unsure what to say for a moment before he found his tongue. "I knew for a while about the pregnancy. Some of us did. I'm sorry for not giving you a heads-up, but it wasn't my secret to tell. She wanted to keep it as private as possible."
Victor was always a big brother to Kory and would always respect her wishes. Dick appreciated the relationship they had and the secrets they kept between them. But that didn't stop the blow he felt hearing that people in their close group had known about it and hadn't told him as a friend. Was he so far removed from the circle he built that he had to find out when the rest of their distant friends did? He felt like an outsider knowing that fact.
Dick didn't know what to say. He was hurt and questioning his place. "The news wasn't meant for me."
Silence passed between them, their only distraction being the clamoring of friends struggling to find their place for a massive group photo. He could hear Garfield yelling about only wanting "original" Titans in the front while the rest argued about his unfairness.
Victor shook his head. "That poor Gar is going to get swallowed up by them. I better give him a hand. I can project a camera from my arm and end the misery for everyone. You coming?"
His growing feelings of displacement made him think twice about joining in on the fun. "I'll catch up later. You should get the big group. We can take photos with the originals later."
"Good thinking," Victor said as he walked towards the crowd.
He stayed behind and watched his friends fight over positioning and who had the better profile. Like his eyes kept doing all night, he found himself looking for that blaze of hair in the crowd, finally spotting her walking toward the back door that led out to the ground-floor balcony. As if she could sense him, she turned briefly, trapping him with her own gaze before continuing on her way out the door.
Dick peeked to see where Julius was, but he was still adamantly talking with Jason and Roy. Before he knew it, Dick was following her trail out the door.
A wave of humidity hit him as he walked through the threshold, but with the ocean breeze from a block away, it was bearable. The sound of music dulled when he closed the door behind him.
Kory stood just out of view, her arms leaning over the enclosed railing, her hair gently swaying with the light breeze. The open slit of her dress flapped behind her, showing off her perfectly toned legs and heels. Her dress was darker under the moonlight but sparkled heavily, making her appear almost angelic. She eclipsed everyone in the room without any effort.
From behind, she didn't seem pregnant at all. Her slender figure molded to her dress perfectly, model-like.
Perfect was the only word that he could find to describe her.
She didn't turn when the door snapped closed. Instead, she continued to stare across the landscape toward the retention pond beyond the venue. Dick kept his distance as he matched her position a few feet away. He stayed close to the door in case he needed to bolt, though it was unlikely. They basked in comfortable silence for some time.
There were many things he wanted to say, to ask, even. But everything he thought to say felt wrong. It's been ages since they spoke, even more since they shared the same breathing space. Just being beside her felt like he didn't deserve that much. The weight of his brimming confliction and inner turmoil was coming to a head. This would be their moment, maybe their only moment, to clear the air. There were no eyes on them for formality. This would be them, raw and unfiltered. This would be the Kory he remembered.
It was Kory that broke the silence first. "I have not flown in quite some time. I miss reaching for the sun for energy and the ease that comes with it. While I appreciate planes and cars, I much rather my usual mode of transport. He has hindered much for me." Her hand absentmindedly rubbed her stomach.
Dick trailed her movements as she continued to talk.
"On Tamaran, females bear for a few short months with increased strength. It seems I was not very fortunate in that matter."
"What do you mean?" He asked, his voice taking on an embarrassingly nervous undertone. He was afraid she would stop talking at any moment and figure this was a waste of her time.
Thankfully, she continued. "I was told I would likely experience a human female pregnancy. It seems that notion is correct so far. I am well past the Tamaranian expectant delivery, and my symptoms are more aligned with that of humans. I am terribly over the sickness of morning." Kory scrunched her nose at the thought.
"I'm sorry to hear that. I hope it gets better for you," Dick found himself saying.
Kory turned to him fully now, Dick doing the same. "There is no need for sorries." He didn't know if she was talking about his comment or something else.
His next question stilled on his tongue for a moment. He turned back to the pond, unable to face her. He braced for her answer, his heart racing erratically. "Are you… happy?"
She took a moment to respond, both hands resting on her inflated belly, her eyes tenderly looking at it. "I am as happy as I can ever imagine."
It felt like the ground swallowed him whole. He was happy for her, truly. But he felt crushed, like something valuable had slipped right through his fingers. What was this feeling?
Dick could only grab the railing and squeeze as if that was his only lifeline.
"I am happy to have a home and friends that have accepted me back after my prolonged absence. But I am heartbroken about the circumstances it took to get me here. Much has been lost in my journey toward finding my purpose, and there is much more loss tied to my being here. Truthfully, I often feel torn."
Kory looked up at the sky, an absent star no longer among the cluster of constellations.
"I take what I have gained and hold it dear. It is all I can do until I lose again." Her words split him in half. He wanted to hold her, hug her, something to ease her burden. But he rooted himself where he stood.
"You won't lose again." He tried to assure her.
"I lost you."
Dick straightened, his eyes snapping to hers. He watched as she slowly approached him, stopping right where he stood, close enough that he could catch a whiff of the familiar wild berries scent he often associated with her. Being so close, he felt his body buzzing, and his mind was like putty. He couldn't think straight.
Kory hesitated as she raised her hand to his cheek, and he swore he almost melted. Dick swallowed hard, restraining himself from closing his eyes and reaching to cover her hand with his. It shouldn't have felt so good to feel her touch. As wrong as it was, it felt right. He didn't remove her hand.
Dick drunk in her never-changing features. She looked as young as the day they met. She radiated even in the darkness.
"What made you decide to come?" If she took any offense to his question, she didn't show it.
"Because I wanted to support my friend."
Those words made his stomach flip. "Even after everything?"
Kory's hand glided to his eyebrow, her interest in them intense as she tried to find the right words. She used her thumb to absently caress it as if she were straightening it. It was a habit she used to do when they would lie in bed talking for hours. It would always put him to sleep. Though fully alert, he found himself leaning into her touch out of habit.
"I am not without fault in all of this. Am I yours?"
God, yes almost slipped from his tongue without thinking. Though he knew what she was referring to, his thoughts answered the hidden double meaning.
It was a valid question. Dick broke contact with her first. She had tried reaching out to him initially, but he couldn't work up the courage to listen to her voice, to hear how broken she was. He never returned her calls or her texts. He never explained why. He didn't fight the growing distance. He didn't fight for them or their friendship.
He felt the weight of his decisions now, years later as he watched her in the arms of someone else and starting a family. Everything he dreamed of having with her. What he almost had with her.
Dick took her hand but didn't release it as he held it between them. "Even when you're twenty-six light years away, you'll always be my best friend, Kory. That never changed."
You'll always be more than that.
Kory gently removed her hand from his and stepped back to lean against the rail. "Something did."
Yes, something did—too much pain from the loss. Distance and stubbornness separated them. Idiocy on his end. He didn't try hard enough to be her rock. He didn't try hard enough to be her friend, even when she needed him most.
He'll always regret that.
"I am happy for you," Kory said when Dick said nothing. "You deserve to find peace and love in the one who has always had your back."
You've always had my back.
Dick didn't know how to take that. It was said genuinely, but it felt weird to hear her say it. He didn't want to talk about the wedding or Barbara. It would make him question things he didn't want answers to—a road he shouldn't take.
He changed the subject. "What will you name him?" He nodded to her stomach.
"Julius is keen on a name that starts with 'J.' We have decided on the name Jake. He kicked when presented with the name," Kory said, smiling down at her stomach.
"You'll make a great mom," Dick said gingerly. He meant it. She was destined to become a mom.
Kory smiled at him. "I hope so."
Kory's pleasant look turned into a grimace as she held the railing and bent slightly, clutching her stomach.
Alarmed, Dick reached for her to offer support. "Are you okay? You should sit," he said as he guided her to a patio chair against the wall.
"I am grateful for your help. He may only be a few Earth months, but his strength may rival that of a small Tamaranian."
"He's kicking," Dick stated. He took the empty seat next to her.
Kory rubbed her stomach as if to soothe the pain. "Yes, I fear he may take flight by the time he is born." She hesitated on her following words. "Would you like to like to feel him?"
Caught off guard, Dick was unsure how to answer. "Uh… I-I don't think that's—" Kory ignored him, taking his hand to place gently on her stomach, hers stalling on top of his to trap his hand, not that he struggled.
Even with the fabric separating his hand from her skin, he could feel the heat radiating from her. Dick could feel small movements like the baby was rolling around. Then a sharp kick unexpectedly hit his hand. His eyes widened at the force behind it. No wonder she was in pain. Kory caught his reaction and giggled with a grimace.
She released his hand, but he didn't remove it. Flashes of a dream kept his hand still. He imagined doing this when they were younger; instead, it was their lost child in her stomach. Sadness filled him at the thought of a path that was no longer a part of his future.
Dick removed his hand, taking a deep breath to calm himself. He didn't want her to see how much this was affecting him. They sat in comfortable silence until he said, "Bruce told me you'd be overseeing Blüdhaven while Babs and I are away. Are you sure you can do that in your condition?"
He knew she would immediately take offense to his question, though he hadn't meant any harm by his words. "I am more than capable of handling myself." She said with an edge to her voice. "Our team will keep an eye on our city while Julius and I watch over Blüdhaven. We will protect your city vehemently."
"I didn't mean to imply you couldn't handle yourself. I know you can. You're the bravest, strongest woman I know," Dick said, trying to lighten the mood. He meant every word, though.
"And I am also quite smart," she added in a lighter tone.
Dick chuckled. "Always that." An idea popped into his head. Barbara would scold him later for this, but he wasn't thinking straight. "You—and Julius—can stay at my old apartment in the city if you want while you're there. It's completely secure. I have no use for it anymore since I stay with Babs anyway…" he trailed off.
Kory shook her head. "No, please, we do not want to impose—"
"It's yours," Dick said with finality.
She looked unsure but nodded with further argument. "I am grateful to you."
The wind picked up again, a little harder this time, ultimately making the clasp pinning Kory's hair fall out. Her hair sprang free in the breeze, blocking her eyes. She blew a frustrated sigh as the draft continued to torment her. "Oh, must this hair give so much trouble? I have spent ample time trying to keep this together before my arrival."
Without question, Dick got up to help her.
"You do not have to," she said politely.
"I want to," Dick responded. She turned her back to him by twisting around in the chair. He started to fix her hair the way it was before. Thankfully, her curls had stayed the same. Her hair was like velvet running through his fingers. He tried to suppress the intimate memories of the times his hands would comb through it.
He was about to place her clasp back in her hair when he paused, an idea striking him. He eased the velvet box from his jacket pocket and took out what he needed to fix her hair before he left her side to admire his work.
Dick stood back against the railing and stared at her with a look she couldn't decipher. "Thank you for the assistance. But might I ask, does it look worse than before? I am unsure if you like it or find it repulsive."
He couldn't tell if she was serious or not. "It's better. You were wrong. It will always be yours." He said, muttering the last part to himself.
Kory tilted her head, confused. "I do not follow."
An uncomfortable moment passed before the words tumbled from his lips, "I miss you, Kory."
Dick watched her visibly freeze. He hadn't planned to say it, but having gotten that off his chest, he felt lighter.
With the frown deepening before his eyes, she opened her mouth to likely brush off what he said or protest, but he held up his hand to stop her from speaking. "Just hear me out, please. I need to say this before I lose my nerve. I promise I'm not trying to ruin anything. I just need to say my peace."
When he was sure she wouldn't interrupt, he started. "I messed up with you, with us. That's in the past, but that doesn't mean it was okay, that the pain isn't still there. I didn't fight for us, and I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, Kory. You deserved so much more than the little I gave you after our loss.
"I was scared to reach out to you. To hear your voice. Every time I saw you, I felt like I was falling apart all over again. I failed to see your pain, too. I'm mad at myself for how I treated you, for losing you. Even more so for letting a good friendship die. But even during your absence, I have always—will always–consider you my best friend. You hold a very special place in my heart that no one else can fill."
Dick watched a tear slip from her eye. He moved toward her carefully, bending to her level in the chair and wiping it away. She didn't fight him when he let his thumb linger on her cheek.
"Although it hurts that I missed all your important milestones, I'm proud of what you've done for yourself. I always knew you could do it, finding your happy place. I'm sorry that came at your people's and your planet's expense, but you deserve your happiness right now. I know you don't believe that but you do."
Kory held his hand in place, leaning her face against his touch as she let her tears fall freely. He continued, "I don't want to spend another day without you in my life, Kory. I don't expect us to be where we once were, and I know it's a lot to ask, but if you ever find it in your heart to forgive me, I'd like to try and be your friend again."
The thudding in his chest grew with the possibility of her rejection. Dick was asking for more than he should, more than he deserved. But he wanted to start somewhere. He was needed to. He didn't want to miss any more of her milestones. He was meant to cross those bridges with her.
He didn't want to be left out of her life.
Kory gnawed at her bottom lip, mulling his words. Her tear-stained emerald eyes clashed with his cerulean ones as he waited with bated breath for her answer.
"I forgave you long ago, Richard."
Hearing his name come out of her mouth for the first time in years did something to him. Dick released the breath he was holding, his body feeling weightless. Suddenly, her arms circled his neck in a tight embrace. He was stunned for a moment, but he returned it, his face settling in the crook of her neck, buried in her hair. His nostrils filled with her scent, and he closed his eyes, savoring the feel of her embrace.
God, he missed this.
They stayed like that for a moment too long before Kory detached herself, placing an innocent kiss on his cheek. The loss of contact left him feeling cold and wanting.
The door opened then, revealing Raven. She paused when she spotted them, a slight frown on her face as she eyed their proximity. She followed Dick's movement as he stood before turning her attention to Kory.
"Kory, Julius is looking for you. We're also about to take group shots of the original Titans if you're interested in joining. Gar finally got his way."
Kory wiped her face and smiled at her friend. "Thank you, Raven. I will be there shortly."
It was meant as a dismissal, but Raven stood in the doorway still. "I'll help you inside."
"I appreciate the offer of assistance, but I must walk on my own. I will not always have a hand around, and I fear I may indulge in the help." Kory attempted to get up but struggled, which didn't help to prove her point.
Dick offered her a hand which she took without fuss and walked her to Raven.
Kory blushed. "I stand corrected."
Raven smiled. "I'll always be a call away to help." Raven offered her elbow to Kory, which she graciously took.
Kory turned back to Dick. "I trust you will be coming to take photos as well? You are the leader, after all."
Dick nodded. "Former leader. And I'll be there in a minute. You guys can take some photos without me."
Kory gave him a stern look. "Nonsense. You will always be our leader. Please do not isolate yourself out here."
"I won't. I promise."
She nodded, satisfied with his answer, before letting Raven lead her inside.
Raven glanced back at Dick, a warning on her face. He could feel her in the recess of his mind.
It's not my place, but Kory is happy. Leave it that way, for your sake and hers.
Her presence receded before Dick had a chance to answer back. He waited outside for another moment, replaying the moments he had waited so long to have with Kory. But he couldn't stay long. Without Kory there with him, it felt empty. So, he headed inside in hopes of seeing her for the photos.
He spotted their group mingling on the other side of the venue as Victor adjusted the setup. Kory and Raven had stopped at the food table for a lemon bar before taking Kory to Julius near the group.
Dick started for their direction but spotted Barbara alone, away from the group but watching them. "You want in on the picture?"
She shook her head. "No, this is for the original Titans. You go ahead."
"But you're the bride of the former leader of said Titans," he egged.
Barbara grinned. "True. But said bride doesn't want to be in the photo in the first place."
"You sure?"
"Just go!" She playfully pushed him toward the group, looking on for another moment, a thoughtful look on her face before she turned away to find a distraction.
He chuckled as he walked past Julius and Kory, his laughter dying as he heard Julius ask, "Where'd you get the barrette? It looks nice on you. Blue is definitely your color."
Dick slowed, watching from the corner of his eye as Kory's eyes widened in surprise. Julius, who was too busy admiring the jewel, didn't catch it. She caught Dick's eye, question pouring from them. He smiled as if that was the answer she sought. She turned away, the corner of her lip upturned, a tender look placating her features.
"It is a gift… from a friend."
Dick didn't stick around to hear the rest, but his steps felt lighter. He just hoped she wouldn't try to give it back later.
The group was finally ready, minus Kory. Victor was attempting to figure out placements for the best photo outcome.
"You can go here. And you here. And you—Gar! You're short, so you have to stay in the front; otherwise, you're getting swallowed up in the back."
"I'm not that short!"
Dick stayed behind, shaking his head as his friends started to bicker. Kory came over then, standing near the back. Victor immediately pulled her to the front. "No, no, no. This may be Dick's wedding, but you're the real star of this photo. You're special, so you get a front-row seat."
Kory frowned. "But I am too tall."
Victor wiggled his eyebrows, "I've got a plan."
He spent the next minute positioning everyone, ultimately convincing Garfield and Raven to kneel while hugging Kory's stomach in the front and letting everyone else stand on either side of her. Dick stood to her left, the barrette twinkling like a reminder under the overhead light. His arm circled her waist, just below Donna's arm around her shoulders to her right.
Victor started the countdown and then got behind them in position as the tallest one in the group. "3-2-1!"
At the last minute, Kory shifted slightly, leaning her head on his shoulder. It caught him by surprise, but he couldn't help but look tenderly at the top of her head, his arm tightening around her waist, effectively bringing her closer as the flash went off. It was innocent to onlookers, but it would always be more to him.
At some point, he'd have to come to terms with it. But for now, he was just glad she was by his side again.
Note: I originally planned this out to be an entire story outlining Starfire's journey to becoming her own hero and falling in love. I may add more later or flesh this bad boy out; who knows! Let me know if you'd like that.
Some cut scenes that I didn't include: (1) a dancing scene on the balcony with Dick and Kory, (2) she was initially supposed to faint (but I hate making Kory a damsel in distress, so I axed it), and (3) a beach outing the next day (Dick was supposed to postpone the honeymoon because he missed his friends and wanted more time with them).