Title: Battered Heart
author: Cindy Ryan
notes and summary: see part one

Epilogue

Over the next week Bruce spent a lot of time with Diana. More than just meals they went on walks, hikes, swims and horseback riding. He was delighted to see not only her strength return but her spirit as well as she remembered more and more. The healers confirmed Diana was on the mend as well. Their theory was one Bruce had that Diana and Steppenwolf's powers had collided and she'd got a surge which caused the amnesia. It had relieved Bruce to know there wasn't any permanent damage.

Now as the sunset there was a knock on Bruce's door. He rose from one of the chairs in the living room and went to see who it was. He wasn't due to meet Diana for another hour, When he opened the door he ws surprised to see Diana standing there. She was dressed casually in the Amazons version of a sun dress. Light tan dress that came to just above her knees and short sleeved. As simple as it was it still took Bruce's breath away with how beautiful Diana was.

"Hi."Bruce managed to say. "Was there a change in plans?"

"Yes, thought we might eat on the beach."Diana suggested holding up a medium sized covered basket.

"Sounds wonderful, let's go."Bruce replied as he stepped outside.

As Diana began to walk away Bruce caught her arm and tugged her back. When Diana met his gaze Bruce leaned down and kissed her. It wasn't their fist kiss; he'd plucked up the courage a few days previous. Still it was new and fragile enough that Bruce was afraid to hope. However the smile that Diana gave him when they broke apart told Bruce more than words ever could.

After the meal was eaten and dishes packed away Bruce sat for a long time staring at the water. He'd done a lot of soul searching since his conversation with Clark and had come no closer to a conclusion. He knew Clark had a point. Knew more than anyone how short and precious life was. Still Bruce didn't know if that realization was enough to take the leap. As much as he cared about Diana he wasn't sure if he wanted to drag her down into his darkness.

"Penny for your thoughts?"Diana promoted softly.

Shaking himself from his reverie Bruce smiled and turned to face Diana. He caressed her right cheek with his right hand. If he let himself Bruce knew he could fall hard for Diana Prince. Then with a start he realized that there was no let; he'd already was plummeting and Bruce found he didn't care. Now the only question was if she'd be able to handle all that went with being a part of Bruce Wayne's life.

"What is it?"Diana asked.

"I've enjoyed the last few days, Diana."Bruce began his voice husky."You're an amazing, beautifal woman and I'm lucky to have you in my life."

"But?"Diana inquired.

Bruce sighed as he cupped her face with both his hands.

"I care about you, Diana."Bruce continued. "More than I should. Hell, I should just walk away now, but I can't. As much of a mess as my life is I want you in it."

"I've enjoyed this time too."Diana replied softly.

She really had. Even with the nightmares that had been an after affect of her memories returning. That had been a small price to pay. It was a relief to know who she was and the events that had brought her to this point.

"Diana..."Bruce began but stopped.

Diana leaned up and kissed him. She knew why he was hesitant. Diana had recovered all her memories of Bruce Wayne. Knew his past, his losses. She also recalled all the lives he'd saved, all the sacrifices he'd made over the years.

"You are a good man, Bruce Wayne."Diana stated once they broke apart.

Bruce shook his head.

"I have my memories back."Diana continued as she stroked his face with her left hand."I know what you have endured and what you've sacrificed."

"The end of that battle with Steppenwolf."Bruce stated quietly. "I was stuck in that car; couldn't get to you. Didn't know if you were alive or dead. That woke me up. I started to realize then that I was falling in love with you. "

Diana felt a silly smile cross her face.

"I love you too."Diana proclaimed.

"Do you really think we can make this work?"Bruce asked.

"I do."Diana responded confidently.

Bruce kissed her and Diana melted into his embrace. They fell back onto the blanket and there were no more words. Diana knew what they shared was precious and was worth whatever risk the real world would throw at them.

end