Title: Battered Heart
author: Cindy Ryan
notes and summary: see part one
Diana went down to the beach to say goodbye to the people who had brought her home. Since she had remembered rescuing Steve from the water it was like a wall had been broken. More and more memories were returning of her long life. Most so far had been of her time with Steve. But others were of the present of the men who were leaving. Of how they had become a team.
"If you are certain you do not need me."Alfred began as he stood on the ramp with Bruce. "I will return. I am sure there are many things that have accumulated in our absence."
"I'll be fine."Bruce replied with a smile.
"I am so glad you are doing better, my dear."Alfred said turning to Diana as she approached.
"Have a safe journey."Diana replied with a smile as she hugged him. "And thank you for everything."
"My pleasure."Alfred said as he nodded at Bruce and then walked up the ramp.
The ramp closed and Bruce and Diana walked back to a safe distance. Diana was surprised that as they watched the plane take off and fly away that Bruce slipped an arm around her waist.
"You should get some rest."Bruce commented once the plane was gone.
"I am tired."Diana agreed.
"I'll walk you back."Bruce offered.
Diana smiled and after Bruce stepped away from her she offered him her right hand. He stared at her for a long moment then slowly he reached out and captured her hand in his. She squeezed his hand and they started to walk. Even though no words were exchanged Diana found she was happy to spend time with this man. This man as she remembered more she knew was a complicated individual. But like Steve Trevor he had a good heart.
Once back at Diana's quarters they stood in the shade near the entrance. Diana smiled at Bruce and after a moment he smiled in return. The wind had picked up and Bruce reached over to tuck some stray strands back behind her right ear. Diana found her breath catching as she met Bruce's gaze and saw the depth of emotion there. They stood like that for several minutes.
"Will you join me for the mid-day meal?"Bruce asked as he broke contact and stepped away.
"Yes, I would like that."Diana replied.
"Good, I'll see you then."Bruce responded with a brief smile.
Diana stepped inside. As she walked further into the room she knew she had a lot to think about in the next few hours. She had realized as she watched the plane leave that she must return to her life as well. Diana found herself hoping that that life would include Bruce Wayne.