Yay, told you I'd be back soon—well this time I followed through. I guess I had nothing better to do.

Disclaimer: In first chapter

Chapter 26

"Don't be ridiculous." Bruce dismissed.

Jason laughed bitterly. "Of course." 'It was so like Bruce to respond like that.' "I'm only teasing." He slowly sauntered over, using this as his chance. "Then…wat do you suggest I am now? To you? I'm no longer just a partner or potential son. Well, I guess legally maybe I am part of the family but… when are we going to title this?"

"Why do we need a title?" Bruce undid his cuffs after he tossed the tie aside.

"Seriously? Do you hear yourself? Don't you think its unfair to drag me on? Because if you're not going to reciprocate those feelings than I have to move on…" Jason was trying to put his foot down. "But at the same time, you go around and respond back to me, what am I supposed to think with all these mixed signals?"

"I didn't think it was causing so much mental distress to you."

The teen sighed. "Don't undermine it, B." He sounded kind of hurt ir at least pretended to sound somewhat dejected.

The billionaire loosened his expression at that. "I'm not." However, Jason kept his face averted, eyes somewhere to the far ground. Bruce was compelled to go over and comfort him, maybe a hand over his shoulders or something but barely stifled himself. Jason was right, he needed to stop sending mix signals but he also didn't know what else to do. He didn't want to leave the teen yet couldn't admit to be with the teen the way he wanted to. Bruce wasn't one to be ambiguous with anything but this is was the one time he'd prefer to stay the way they were. With no labels, limitations. It was so much easier that way…

The teen titans were taking a mini vacation, a night out at the beach side. Tim was invited as well, who would usually reject the proposal but ended up agreeing when he heard Superboy was going as well. The curiosity got the better of him and so he tagged along. He needed to get out of the house anyways.

Once they reached the beach, they had surfboards, waterboards, beach towels all ready. The girls set up shades and towels on the sane while some of the guys went waterboarding or surf boarding. In the midst of them setting things up, Tim glanced at Conner who met his gaze but before Tim could wave an awkward hi, the other instantly looked away and sped away.

'Eh? What the? He's cold as always.' Tim let the hand droop. 'But why did he look sort of embarrassed?'

'Maybe I shouldnt have tagged along after all…' Tim was beginning to regret it as he just listlessly sat in the sand alone. He was more introverted after all. The teen was so zoned out he didn't notice Beast Boy sneaking up behind him with a crab in his hand and a mischievous grin plastered on his face.

"Ow! Ow! Hey you're gonna break my wrist!" The sudden commotion startled Tim who turned around to see Superboy holding Beast Boy's wrist in an iron grip as they stood over him. Tim registered a crab fall from Beast Boy's hand on to the sand and immediately caught on.

"What do you think you're doing?" Conner menaced.

"Chill out! It was just a prank!" Beast Boy wailed but the other only glared back at him.

'Yeah, I really shouldn't have come…but I have to break this apart first.' Tim brooded. "While I agree that's messed up, but it's okay, let him go." The teen tugged at Superboy's arm. With reluctance, the ravenette slowly loosened his grip. Beast Boy made a terrified face and scrambled off. 'So much for payback. But I guess that's what having normal friends feels like.' "You really need to chill out." Tim scolded the taller teen.

"Are you kidding? He almost—che." Super boy clicked his tongue and turned his face away.

'Was he looking out for me?' Tim couldn't help but think. He scoffed a smile. "You wanna do something else? I was getting bored sitting around anyways—join me in the water?" That was when he also noticed Superboy was already shirtless and in knee length shorts. Superboy had the perfect physique, much bigger and muscular than him. Tim also wore similar shorts but also wore an open half sleeved shirt.

"Mh." To his surprise, Superboy agreed. They walked to the ocean and felt the cool water splash around their ankles. Tim also noticed Blue Beetle and Cyborg surf boarding on the other side.

"You want to try that?" Conner asked.

"Huh? No, it's okay, I don't think my balance is that great anyways. Hm, you think there are sea shells here? I don't remember ever coming to the beach honestly. The water is so blinding, but it's nice." The brunette smiled, bending down at picking at the ocean floor. "Check it out, this one reminds me of you haha." He pointed one of the shells in Conner's direction.

"What?" The other teen frowned.

"I don't know why, but the red colors look dangerous and threatening but at the same time the bright glimmering colors make it hard to look away." Time explained before handing it to him. Superboy was speechless as he stared down at it. While Tim scoured for more shells, Super boy stuffed the shell in his pockets.

Tim was barefoot as he stepped over slippery rocks, attempting to maintain his balance until one got the better of him, leading him to fall backwards. A yelp caught Superboy's attention and he turned to see Tim descending backwards, the half-kryptonian leaped to his rescue and caught his back colliding into his chest, water splashing around them.

"Ugh, great, my shirt is all wet." 'Well what did he expect, they were in the water after all.' "Oh well. Thanks again for saving me over and over…" The brunet removed his shirt and began wringing it. That was the first time Superboy saw him bare and for some reason he couldn't take his eyes off as he swallowed him whole. Tim's slim and fair physique was glowing in the sun. Conner hardly registered that he was staring so heatedly until Tim looked his way.

"Are you okay? You're face looks like its burning up." That snapped Conner out of his trance and he whipped his gaze away.

"Get out of the water." The taller teen commanded.

"Huh? Why?"

"I'll get you another shirt." With no further explanation, Conner marched out of the water leaving Tim looking bewildered.

"What's up with him all of a sudden?" 'Why is he being so protective abruptly? Is there something on my body?' Timmy did a quick check.

In another five minutes, as promised Super boy returned with a black T-shirt and tossed it towards the brunette. Tim held it open and noticed it was the signature red and black superman logo T-shirt that Superboy always wore. "This?" Tim asked.

"You liked it so much last time. This is an extra, keep it." Conner stiffly told. "Now get out of the water and go under the shades."

"Uh thanks…?" Tim was flattered. The taller teen carefully grabbed the other's wrist and led him out towards the girls. After dumping him there, the mysterious teen left again as if he was on a mission.

Starfire chuckled while Raven stifled the urge to mock him as Tim sat awkwardly with the superman shirt on like a sheltered princess not allowed to set foot outside. "That's the first time I've seen him so involved in someone else's business." Starfire laughed. Tim didn't know how to respond to that and only scratched his cheek.

After sun down the team headed back to the small beach house and split into rooms. Tim and Superboy ended up sharing the same room which Tim thought was too much of a coincidence. Tim took the first shower, he came out in a different pair of shorts but kept the superman shirt. It was undeniably oversized, the half sleeves coming down to his elbows but he didn't mind, it was loose, comfortable and would probably be easy to sleep in. Meanwhile, Superman changed into pajamas and the same black superman shirt after his shower.

"Wow is that really your only wardrobe?" Tim teased from where he was sitting on the bed.

"I…don't shop much." Conner confessed.

"Haha, you should've said so that day when we met. We could've bought something. Oh yeah, we have to meet up for dinner with the others." Tim told.

The pair walked into the dining area, and all eyes were on them. Tim already knew why. "Wow, when did you two get so close?" Starfire cooed.

"Aw, matching T-shirts~ Look at them." Cyborg pointed.

"Uh, its nothing like that…my shirt got wet so Superboy lent it to me." Tim explained taking a seat somewhere vacant.

"Oh really? But Super boy also wanted to share a room with you." Blue Beetle added casually.

"Hey! I said don't—tsk," Conner snapped but cut himself off. Tim glanced his way speechlessly, noticing the subtle blush on the other's cheek. He internally smiled and looked down at his plate, heart missing a rhythm and expanding in his chest.

Later that evening, they resorted back to their rooms, and Tim switched on the TV. Maybe they could watch something? It was eerily silent. However, after flipping through all the channels he found nothing interesting and gave up. "Well, might as well just sleep then." He said out loud to no one. Superboy just went with the flow. He wasn't one with too many opinions. Sure made it difficult to connect sometimes.

It was chilly at night by the beach side and Tim may have underestimated how cold it was about to get. He lay in his bed for an hour shivering, despite being wrapped fully by the blankets provided. 'Dammit, I should've brought an extra sweat shirt or something…er…' he couldn't control all the shivers running up and down his spine, it was looking impossible to fall asleep like this.

Conner could hear the other's shallow breathing and sense his body shivering with his super abilities and it was beginning to distract him. He sat up and looked towards Tim's bed who was facing away from him. "What's wrong?"

"Huu…it's just so c-cold…that's all…" Tim stuttered. Superboy wasn't sure how to fix that but he did crawl off his bed and Tim noticed his own bed dip. "What—?" The brunette half turned to see what was up but stopped when he saw Superboy already climbing under his sheets. "What are you—?"

However, Superboy didn't respond and simply hugged him from behind, securely and fully wrapping his muscular arms over the teen. Tim instantly got goosebumps when the other's raging body temperature seeped into his back and arms. If he had any hesitations before, his cold body shun them out completely now. The smaller teen allowed himself to lean back into the other's chest, relishing the free warmth and heaving a sigh of relief. Just like that, in no time, the two fell asleep.

The next morning, Tim cracked his eyes open to warm, rigid muscles facing him. He was laying on his side with his head on top of someone's bicep. Looking up he found Superboy also laying on his side, facing him, eyes shut. Tim wordlessly surveys his face, the pointed nose, square jawline. He said it once before, and he would say it again; he had nice sharp features that suited him.

'Geez, he was so distant yet he had helped him multiple times already. And here he thought he would be the one guiding the other through the social world.' Tim snorted at the thought. Superboy slowly opened his ice blue eyes, giving the other a scare almost.

"You awake?" Conner mouthed.

"Er yeah," Tim pulled himself up a bit. "T-thanks…your body temperature must come in handy in the winter huh?" He tried to joke. Why was he stuttering? He was always the composed one, he rarely ever stuttered. Maybe because his heart was also hammering behind his ribcage and the butterflies were churning in his stomach. This was really throwing him off his game.

"Hn…" Superboy rolled over on his back, combing back his short spiky hair once with a frown, making his biceps curl.

'How is he so hot?' Tim envied. But at that instant, all his previous concerns were answered as a new realization dawned on him. He had a crush on him. Tim's face dropped on his palm. He was doomed. Him? Of all people? In the beginning it was curiosity, intrigue even, being unable to stay away but now…

Conner glimpsed at him from where he was laying, the loose black shirt outlining his narrow shoulders and falling over his lean arms. The long dark bangs parts on the sides of his face, making his face look even slimmer. Superboy moved the arm that was previously under Tim's head and slid it on to the mattress, naturally curling around where Tim was sitting with out fully touching him.

"We should get up…" Tim annunciated and rushed to the bathroom. They were also heading back home today since they were only there for a night.

"A cruise?" Jason echoed.

"Yes, they're hosting a party for two nights. Many high profile personalities are also invited." Bruce explained.

"Is it okay for me to go?"

"Of course. One extra person isn't an issue. Also Damian has been a handful for everyone, a short break is warranted."

"Haha, especially Dick, he's been tryna get along with the brat the most."

"So? Are you in?" Bruce intently asked, tone oddly playful or was it seductive?

Jason had to remind himself they weren't a couple. "Yea, I'm game."

"Hmph." The billionaire smirked. "Good. Don't forget to pack a tuxedo."

Bruce and Jason packed a small bag each, since it would be a short getaway but the teen was looking forward to it nonetheless. It would be just the two of them, on a cruise for the first time and in the same room. If he was smart, he should use this trip to his advantage and try to seduce or impress Bruce.

They dressed up, fixed each other's ties and joined the evening party. There were cocktails, great food, sparkling desserts and more. Jason just stood to the side, close to Bruce, he could never really get used to these posh atmospheres. "Just relax and enjoy the service." Bruce casually remarked.

"Easy for you to say." Jason pouted. That's when he noticed an older man, with long grey hair, in a dark maroon tuxedo that suited him well. They made eye contact and after a long second, the man winked at him. Jason looked puzzled and glanced at Bruce who shared the expression. The billionaire couldn't figure out why he would do that because he recognized the man as Wade Wilson.

When neither of them gave no response, the man began gave a short wave before walking their way, with a long champagne glass in his hand. "Do you know him? I don't?" Jason mouthed.

"Hey there. Fancy seeing you here." Wade directed at the teen with a polished smile. Jason raised a brow. "That's quite fickle of you to forget especially when you were so cute last time."

'That tone…and that hair…' It all came crashing down on him when he recalled Deathstroke from that time in the hotel. The teen's features tensed and eyes widened right as he smacked his palm over the elder man's mouth. "Don't say anymore." He hissed in a low voice so Bruce couldn't hear. Deathstroke appeared amused. The silverette landed his gloved palm right on top of Jason's ass causing him to flinch.

"Nice to see you too." Wade mumbled but not for long as a possessive arm pulled Jason away. The billionaire had an automatic frown on his face as he guided the teen back to his side. "Ah, where are my manners, Bruce Wayne." He acknowledged, extending a hand. Bruce didn't take a hand but gave him a solid nod instead. He didn't know what it was but something about men crawling over Jason made his primal instincts snarl. If a menacing aura could be emanating from the billionaire it would be choking the whole room by now.

"If you'll excuse us." Bruce dragged Jason outside. "Why does he know you?"

"Wait, how do you know him?" Jason retorted.

"He's an old contact." Bruce answered and looked at him like it was his turn now.

"Uh, he's the guy that saved me from Black Mask that time…Deathstroke."

"I see…" Bruce recalled the incidence. "Why was he being so suggestive though?"

Jason suspiciously looked away. "I don't know…"

"Are you hiding something?"

"Shouldn't we go back inside?" The teen tried to change the topic.

"Jason you're changing the subject here."

"Just leave it B, nothing happened." The younger insisted and walked past him.

The next morning, Jason stepped outside the room to take in the fresh cool ocean breeze. He stepped outside to the main balcony, leaning over the railing and staring into the bright horizon. Bruce was still asleep, it was so nice, they had a double bed to themselves.

Jason lost track of how long he was out there until he heard footsteps approach him. He turned his head over his shoulder, expecting Bruce but expression flattened when he recognized Wade. He turned his head back to the sea.

"Don't look too sour." Deathstroke said, joining him on his own, leaning his back against the railing. "Since we're here should we talk about the favor you owe me."

Jason groans. "Did it have to be now?"

"A debt is a debt."

'Great, this guy was going to ruin the one opportunity he had with Bruce.' "What do you want?" Jason was still leaning over, and Deathstroke glimpsed at his backside. "Well?" The teen impatiently asked and straightened himself.

"There's nothing really a s kid like you could offer. But. I do have something easy in mind."

"Out with it?"

"Spend the night with me."

"What?" Jason must have misheard. Anything but that.

"You look repulsed. Even once will do. I am a busy man after all."

"…something else."

"Mh~ What else can you do for me?"

"Che...I don't know but…not that."

"Why not?" Deathstroke comes closer into his private space, arm sliding slowly across his waist while his face leaned closer. "It's just a one night stand. No strings attached. Isn't that perfect?"

The teen still looked hesitant and scowled at the other's carefreeness. "By the way, what about the tracker…?"

"You believed in that?" The silverette mocked with an amusing sneer. Jason's jaw dropped, pushing the other away and was near ready to curse out but another voice interjected.

"Jason." A stern voice called out and the two turned to find Bruce in a V-neck. "I was looking for you."

"Oh it's Mr. Wayne again. Looks like you two are well acquainted." Deathstroke looked back at Jason while saying that. The teen fully moved away from the silverette and rushed over to Bruce.

"Hey, I was just enjoying the breeze, you wanna grab breakfast?" Jason innocently suggested, dragging the elder away. 'Shit what is Bruce going to think? I hope he doesn't think I'm seducing some other guy—dammit what timing. Right when I was talking about how I should move on.'

"I'll see you later~" Deathstroke called out as they left and Jason only rolled his eyes.

To Be Continued…

Look who's back ~ Deathstroke might be the perfect catalyst to bring these two fully together. Well you'll have to find out. And not gonna lie, Tim and Conner are so cute. Maybe i should draw them again.