AN: I am finally back! To make up for the wait, have a massive chapter that is full of Birdflash-goodies – Bruce and Damian are here too, though. And a surprise. ;)

I have some announcements to make (I know, I feel so professional):

There is a Russian translation by the wonderful Valeriya Skripunova for the first part of this series "The Twirl of a Knife" now. You can find it here (just put the spaces in the link together because this webpage is weird about links):

ficbook.
net
/readfic/12752467

So, if you speak Russian, you can go over and send Valeriya some love. :D

Also, I'm on Tumblr now under Tatedeco. I'm gonna put up some writing updates there and you can hit me up if you have any questions, comments or want to scream at me for taking too long again. ;)

BlueBird183: Ich bin glücklich, dass du dich über Slade gefreut hast! Er macht immer so viel Spaß. Wir werden auf jeden Fall noch mehr Interaktionen zwischen Nightwing und Slade sehen. Nicht mehr in dieser Geschichte, aber dafür im 3. Teil. ;)

Bruce ist nicht der Netteste in diesem Kapitel. Der Arme ist aber schon ziemlich verletzt. Es ist eine verzwickte Situation.

'Armer Jason' fasst es sehr gut zusammen. Er braucht erstmal ein bisschen Selbstfindung, um wieder zu seinem besten Ich zu kommen. :,(

Dieses Kapitel hat sehr viel Wally. Und mit Josh - wir werden sehen. ;)

Bin auch schon aufgeregt über den 3. Teil. Freue mich, dass du die Begeisterung teilst. :D

This chapter is one of the fluffiest I've ever written but there are still some warnings:

Mention of domestic abuse & mention of biphobia (both of these just get discussed, no one gets hurt/insulted on-page)

35. Truth or Dare

Nightwing packed everything he needed into a backpack. He wouldn't return to the Manor for a while.

His family was eating away with him. Bruce and Jason's fight – no, it had no use for Nightwing to interfere. Damian – he felt bad about leaving his littlest brother alone. But Nightwing had responsibilities now. The Titans were expecting him.

And Wally. Nightwing needed to fix things with Wally.

He tilted his head when he noted quiet steps behind him. Damian was good but he still couldn't evade Nightwing's enhanced hearing.

"You are leaving?", Damian asked, trying to keep his voice quiet.

Nightwing picked up on the disapproving undertone. He turned around.

"Fawcett for visit Wally. Then, meet up with Titans and start be proper team."

"I do not understand your desire to be part of a discount-League", Damian crossed his arms, "You certainly have the capabilities to join the proper one. I shall lead the Justice League one day. It is my legacy."

Nightwing smiled softly, not letting Damian's disregard get to him. The boy was always attacking. No wonder when the Shadow had taught him that offense was the best defence.

"You right. We have lot we need proof. But there come day when you need go off on your own without legacy or what other people want for you. It not easy. I not know if I can do but I need try."

Damian scoffed: "Tt. Legacy is the most valuable there is."

Nightwing thought about the Justice League. They meant well but they had never been the right place for Nightwing. Maybe he truly was too ruthless for the League – too formed already.

Damian was still young. Maybe he could shake his conditioning with the right teaching and love from his family. But what if he couldn't?

"You always can come to my discount-League if real League give you trouble."

"I'm not a quitter."

"Never say you be", Nightwing gave Damian one of the Titans' communicators, "Call me if you need talk, get out of Gotham or whatever. I sorry for leave, Damian, especially with Jason away. But I still want be there for you."

Damian pocketed the communicator. He balled his fists, his face tense.

"I want to be Robin", Damian said, "Batman's partner and his destined successor."

Nightwing frowned. His mind was ripped back to the memory. The peace of the circus tent. The way Mary – his mom – had caught him and held him close. She had loved him – her little Robin. The one memory had been enough for Nightwing to see that.

"Why?", Nightwing asked.

Damian's mouth narrowed into a line: "I see. You do not wish for me to take up the name."

"No, no", Nightwing protested, "It just unexpect. You can have it, Damian. I be honor. Just why?"

"Themis showed me the pain I caused", Damian looked to the side, avoiding eye contact with Nightwing, "You showed me that… it is not impossible to come back from it."

"Aww, Dami", Nightwing felt his insights melting.

He could not keep himself from kneeling down to Dami's level and pulling him into a hug. Damian didn't protest this time. He just stayed stiff. A lot like Bruce in that regard.

Nightwing didn't smother him too long. He pulled back, feeling his eyes burn in a traitorous way.

"You need call me", Nightwing said, "I not care. I not sleep anyway."

"I shall call to satisfy your neediness."

Nightwing chuckled.

He picked up his backpack and walked to the Batcave. Naturally, Bruce was hunched over some file again. Nightwing approached him. He waited until Bruce put down the file. His mentor looked tense when he saw Nightwing, almost fearful.

But there was a slight frown on Bruce's forehead.

"I did not expect you to turn up here again", Bruce said.

It wasn't hostile. Just something else. Nightwing tilted his head. Trying to decipher his mentor.

"I go to Fawcett, Bruce", Nightwing said, "For visit Wally."

"Does Wally know you're coming?"

"It be surprise."

Bruce hummed.

"You went to visit Jason", Bruce said, "I checked. He's still in his cell."

"He convince me not break him out. Jason need time for sort thing out for himself", Nightwing's tongue felt bitter.

He had seen the hesitation, the pain on Jason's face when Nightwing had asked his question. The question that had cemented everything for Nightwing.

Bruce's face stayed neutral: "What convinced you?"

"I ask Jason what he do if he find me today – as Talon. If he save me like he do when younger."

Bruce sat up: "And what did he say?"

"Nothing", the bitter taste on Nightwing's tongue intensified, "You right, B. I not recognize him anymore. That not my Jay. But I hope he find himself again. I need him."

Bruce's face stayed neutral. Nightwing could see him thinking though. He internally cursed how emotionally repressed his entire family was. Nightwing was not the most emotionally healthy person either, but he still sought out affection.

Another reason why he desperately needed to fix things with Wally. He missed the speedster's energy and warmth. Nightwing revelled in it. Maybe because it was so different to his own quiet demeanour.

Nightwing lowered his head: "And I hope you two solve it. I know now that I not can fix. Jason show me, too."

Bruce stood up. Nightwing stayed still as Bruce's approached.

"You're angry?"

"A bit", Nightwing frowned.

It was strange to admit that he was angry at Jason and Bruce. He had always tried to keep his family harmonious.

Talons had no right to be angry – it's what the Court taught him for most of his life. But the teachings had been wrong. Only now, did Nightwing feel like he understood it on an emotional level.

"But I love you both", Nightwing said, "So, I trust that you… stay with me even if we not complete family anymore."

Bruce reached out and put his hand on the back of Nightwing's neck. It was comforting. A silent reassurance. As close to initiating a hug someone as emotionally constipated as Bruce could come. Nightwing appreciated it.

He couldn't be too angry with Bruce. His mentor dealt with issues by detachment, emotional repression. Nightwing knew a thing or two about that. It was hard for Bruce to be openly affectionate – but he always tried.

"You need a civilian identity", Bruce turned back to the computer.

Nightwing frowned: "Why?"

"I assume you want to meet Wally's friends?"

"I do."

"Can't introduce yourself as Nightwing."

Bruce was right. Nightwing frowned. He hadn't thought of this, too distracted by all the relationships he had been trying to salvage. Sloppy. Nightwing needed to be better now that he would be on his own.

"I can make you a fake passport and with a little bit of hacking and some connections I can get you a solid civilian identity. You have a preference for a civilian name?"

"What about Dick Grayson?"

"I thought you didn't want the name."

"I change. It be me in some way. I still be Nightwing first. But I want rediscover what Dick Grayson be like."

Bruce frowned: "There is a lot of baggage to Dick Grayson. The media reported on the Graysons quite extensively. We're going to have to explain why you were missing for all this time. Also, your speech patterns are quite distinct. It would be easy to make the connection."

Nightwing bit his lip. Most of his life had been laid open for the world to see but Dick Grayson had stayed a secret. Nightwing wanted to have it remain that way. Having people poke through it before Nightwing even knew what Dick Grayson meant to him, sounded terrifying.

Bruce looked apologetic: "I'm not saying it's not possible but it would be very complicated."

No. Bruce was right. Nightwing might not have much to lose personally, but what did it mean for Bruce Wayne to be seen with Dick Grayson? For Wally to date Dick Grayson? They would never know peace even in the unlikely case that no one connected Dick Grayson to Nightwing.

Nightwing needed a part of his life that could stay quiet. That could be seen in public with his loved ones.

"Lloyd", Nightwing said.

"Dick Lloyd?"

Nightwing thought about the young woman in the circus tent. The way she had picked Dick up and held him close. Affection visible on every part of her face. She had taught Dick so much. So many things that Nightwing still used nowadays without having thought about their origin.

Before Cobb and Batman had taught him, the Graysons had shown him everything they knew. Nightwing may not remember it but he could feel their influence in every movement.

"It be Mary's – my mother's – first name. Before she marry my Dad."

"It works", Bruce was already typing on the computer, "You learned about your parents."

Nightwing chewed on his lips: "I read about them from your files. They sound like great people."

"I collected everything I could find. I was hoping you would be interested one day."

Nightwing smiled: "Thank you, B."

Nightwing watched while Bruce put together the fake passport. Bruce elaborated on every one of his steps.

"You'll need it one day", Bruce said, "I have my fair share of fake identities."

Nightwing nodded. He watched as Bruce finished the ID-card.

"I'll do some hacking to create some fake records for Dick Lloyd", Bruce said, "We need a backstory for him that explains certain things about you."

"The way I speak?"

"The best lies have a measure of truth in them. It also helps you to keep track of the lies."

Nightwing nodded: "Dick Lloyd be from Gotham. His parents die when he very young. Villain attack. I be col-la-te-ral damage. It give me brain damage so I talk weird."

"Which villain?"

Nightwing shrugged: "Joker?"

"No", Bruce said, "Too many fanatics who care about what the clown does. There are entire blogs dedicated to tracking every one of his movements. They are obsessed enough to hound every one of his victims for details. We need a villain no one cares about."

"You fight KGBeast over ten years ago?"

"That works", Bruce pulled up a file, "I fought him thirteen years ago shortly before your parents… passed away. It was a brutal fight and I was too inexperienced. I couldn't keep him from shooting up half of the Narrows. Too many casualties."

Bruce's voice sounded heavy. As if that fight was still weighing on him.

"KGBeast hit my parents during fight. He… shoot me in head. Brain injury but I survive, barely."

Bruce nodded. He took some notes.

"Where I go then?"

"You spent your time in Juvie until you were 18 because there was no space for you in any orphanage. Gotham's Juvie is overcrowded enough for no one to notice a child who never was there."

"My fake backstory suck", Nightwing muttered.

"At least it works out."

Nightwing chewed on his lip: "Can Dick Lloyd have high school degree at least?"

"You never went to high school."

Nightwing scoffed: "You care about truth now? Dick Lloyd need a high school-degree unless the Justice League pay me for do missions."

Bruce looked slightly amused: "Isn't it enough that I pay the Titans?"

"If I want real life at some point, I need a job. I not want live off your money forever, Bruce."

Also, if Nightwing wanted to build anything serious with Wally. He couldn't be a good partner if his entire life consisted of the mission – even if Nightwing wasn't ready yet to build up anything else but the mission.

"You're looking for a job?"

"Sometime in future", Nightwing crossed his arms.

Just because he had worked through a lot of his personal issues, didn't mean that he needed to have his life together now. Having the option was still nice though.

Bruce looked even more amused: "You know that I'm a billionaire and that whatever life expenses you have barely count as pocket change for me?"

Nightwing wrinkled his nose: "Jason be right. Sometimes you really brag much."

Bruce tensed at the mention of Jason: "Dick Lloyd can have a fake high school degree if Nightwing takes some online classes."

Nightwing was about to protest but he closed his mouth when he saw the determination in Bruce's eyes. His mentor wouldn't budge. Such a dad.

"Fine", Nightwing said, "I do online classes and you ensure that I have perspective for future in this economy."

He more or less quoted Jason on the last part. His little brother had an affinity for passionate rants.

"Deal."

Nightwing grinned: "It never be part of deal that I have to pass them."

"You're getting sneaky."

"I learn from best."

Bruce handed Nightwing his ID-card and a key with a piece of paper attached.

"What be?"

"The Titans' new hideout. I thought you might like some sun for a change. So, I chose Jump City for you. The west coast is less patrolled anyway. Jordan is quite negligent in Coast City with his trips into space."

Nightwing hugged Bruce: "I visit as often as can, B."

"We'll see. Leading a team is a tall order."

"Lead?", Nightwing frowned.

Bruce didn't elaborate upon his slip of tongue. Nightwing opted not to think about it. He stood up.

"I expected you to run away with Jason and never come back", Bruce was turned towards the computer.

Nightwing halted, a pang in his chest: "You not get rid of me, Bruce."

Bruce's back was tense.

"I owe you so much, B."

"You don't owe me anything", Bruce talked to the computer, "If anything, I owe you."

"We owe each other. It be like family."

"it is."

Nightwing smiled. Relieved that they had found some closure between each other at least.

"Talk to Damian", Nightwing put as much emphasis into his voice as he could, "He call me if not."

"Is that a threat?"

"Yes", Nightwing said, "You need a Robin in your life."

"Robin?"

"Ask Dami about it", Nightwing walked up the stairs, leaving the Batcave and the Manor behind.

On his way to the bus stand, he couldn't help but feel pensive. It felt like a new era for their family had started. Nightwing wished some things were different, but he was also glad that some things had changed. Nightwing himself had changed. He was better now and he hoped that Wally would see it.

Nightwing paid for the bus at the counter. He waited until it arrived. When he embarked, he showed Dick Lloyd's ID to the driver. The driver accepted it with a nod, not giving it a second glance.

Nightwing sat down on a window seat. He couldn't help but look at the ID. Dick Lloyd. It felt fake somehow. Nightwing was still Nightwing. But there was also a piece of him that wanted to reconnect with his family. His mom and dad. This felt like a start.

Nightwing thought of the fake name he had come up with at the beginning of his undercover mission. When he had waited for Deathstroke in the seedy bar. The very unoriginal name of Richard West.

It could become reality if Dick Lloyd ever happened to marry Wally West. The thought shot through his mind. It made Nightwing laugh and earned him some glances from his fellow passengers.

Nightwing and Wally weren't even really together at the moment (it was complicated) and Nightwing was already thinking about marrying Wally? Truly, his romantic mind was running off with him like a speedster.

It wasn't a relevant thought currently. They needed to get their relationship on track and grow more before anything this serious was an option. But it was still a comforting thought that it was a possibility. That Nightwing's future wouldn't just consist of the mission anymore.

So, Nightwing ran his fingertips over the name again while the bus was on its way to Fawcett.

Nightwing fiddled with his collar, making sure that it was straightened. He had needed some time until he had found the student house on the Fawcett campus. Now, he was crossing the long, sterile hallways that consisted of endless doors. Nightwing checked for the number Wally had sent him a few months ago.

Students crossed him on their way to class, barely paying him any attention. Nightwing reached for the glamour charm around his neck, making sure that it was still there. He wasn't eager to blow Wally's cover by showing up here in his real form.

Nightwing stopped in front of Wally's door, checking the number again. He knocked - a plastic bag with boxes of chocolate in his other hand. Nightwing had gotten them at the bus stop, earning some glances when he had bought an entire stack.

Food was the way to Wally's heart though. The speedster consumed it like a machine.

No answer. Nightwing knocked again. He felt stupid suddenly. What if Wally was in class? What time was it anyway? Nightwing barely paid attention to time. Talons didn't need to know time.

Maybe he should have texted Wally. But he had wanted his visit to be a surprise.

"Did you forget your key?", Wally called through the door.

Nightwing frowned. It was obvious Wally didn't mean him.

"You owe me, dude", Wally continued from behind the door, "My alarm is only supposed to go off in an hour-"

The door opened. Wally stood there, looking like he had just gotten out of bed. His red hair was mussed in a glorious mess that Nightwing wanted to run his hand through. Little Superman-logos were scattered over Wally's blue pyjamas.

Nightwing felt dumbstruck. He hadn't been prepared for such an onslaught of Wally allat once.

Wally sounded as if he couldn't believe his eyes: "I'm awake, right?"

"Very much, Wally", Nightwing tried to be smooth about this.

As if he hadn't gone through this interaction a thousand times on the bus ride, analyzed every eventuality, made contingencies for each of them-

Wally gripped Nightwing's wriest and pulled him into the room: "Come in, Bab- Nightwing."

The grin on Wally's face was infectious. It wiped all the contingencies from Nightwing's mind.

Nightwing closed the door behind himself. Wally went to the wardrobe, putting on a hoodie. Nightwing put the chocolate down onto the desk.

"I have food", Nightwing said.

"That's why I'm dating you", Wally chuckled.

Nightwing bit his lip. He wasn't sure where they stood.

So, he asked: "Do we, Wally?"

Nightwing cringed internally. He was coming off colder than he wanted to. It made him worry that he was scaring Wally away.

Wally's eyes met Nightwing's: "As long as you want to."

Nightwing smiled. He shouldn't be worried. Wally had never been scared of him - maybe in the first moment they had seen each other but not past anything that mattered. The speedster had never seen him as a monster.

Wally sat down on the edge of the bed, shuffling his feet around. He had that restless speedster-energy about him that was so infectious to Nightwing. Nightwing followed suit, leaving generous space between them. It still felt strange to be with Wally again. Their break-up felt like it had happened an eternity ago. So much had happened since then.

"I saw the interview", Wally said.

Nightwing tensed. He stared at Wally, waiting for him to go on.

"You were amazing. I knew that you were brave, but wow. Seeing you stand up for yourself? I've never seen you like this."

Wally looked at Nightwing with reverence. It was… strange. Nightwing's skin tingled under Wally's gaze.

"I different now. I feel less… guilty. More in control. Maybe it be illusion but it feel good."

"You look good", Wally reached out for Nightwing's chest, taking off the necklace.

Nightwing smiled as Wally let it drop onto the nightstand. He might accept now that Dick Grayson was the same person as him, but the Talon-form still felt like the real him. Wally had always accepted – loved – Nightwing's real form. Another amazing thing about him.

"Your roommate?", Nightwing asked.

"In class. Not gonna be here until afternoon", Wally said, "Don't worry."

Nightwing stood up and closed the blinds.

"Someone is paranoid", Wally teased.

"Cautious", Nightwing sat back down, this time closer to Wally.

"Such a Bat-thing to say."

Nightwing chuckled: "Not want screw up your college-life by bring hero-things into it."

"I could do with some excitement. I feel so average now. My roommate thinks I'm boring."

"Poor Wally", Nightwing put his head on Wally's shoulder.

"I dodged all parties until now. Do you know how hard that is in college? No wonder Josh thinks I'm a nerd without any game."

"You be nerd", Nightwing dug his finger into Wally's chest, pointing at the cartoon image of an atom.

"But I have game", Wally crossed his arms.

"You do have record for date most people on team. It be two which not sound much but it still be record."

"I don't know if you're cheering me up or making fun of me", Wally chuckled, "I couldn't risk your cover. Too much of a chance that someone I know would have recognized me on a college party and mentioned it to the Team. Or maybe I'd show up somewhere online."

"Not big risk I think. Not many people here know you and especially not people know you and team."

"Still too big of a risk when it comes to you. I'd be a shitty boyfriend if I put you in jeopardy over a college party."

Nightwing felt his insides melt. He wrapped his arms around Wally, pulling him into a hug. Wally felt so solid against him. Protective the way he wrapped his arms around Nightwing's waist.

"Boyfriend?", Nightwing couldn't keep the excitement out of his voice.

"I feel like I was pretty clear when I tried to kiss you last time. I was waiting for you to come to me."

"I from Gotham. I overthink."

"I hope you don't overthink this", Wally leaned forward, so close that Nightwing could feel his breath on his lips.

It wasn't quite enough. Nightwing felt himself grow impatient – matching Wally's restless energy. He bridged the gap, cupping Wally's cheek and feeling the warm skin under his fingers.

Wally dug his hand into Nightwing's hair, tugging lightly. It was a comforting weight. A reassurance that Wally was there. Nightwing opened his mouth as Wally's tongue pressed against his lips. He chuckled when Wally's tongue tasted more than a bit stale.

"What?", Wally pulled back, insecurity flittering over his face, "Am I not good?"

"You taste like morning breath."

"Oh", Wally was about to pull away, "I can go brush my teeth-"

"No", Nightwing tightened his arms around Wally, "I want you close."

"You sure? I can do it really-"

"I not care. Miss you too much", Nightwing attacked Wally's mouth again.

Wally pushed back. Nightwing wrapped his legs around Wally in response.

"I forgot how touchy you are", Wally laughed.

"I be extra-touchy now. I be surround by assholes for months."

Wally looked up at Nightwing with a frown: "I don't know how you did it."

"You need right motivation."

"You talk about it as if anyone can do it. I don't think I could – give up so much for the mission I mean."

"You fake your death for mission, Wally."

"I faked my death for you", Wally said, "I'm happy as a civilian. Call me a coward but I don't miss the hero game and I'm glad your mission is over."

"I not think you coward, Wally. You make decision you want make", Nightwing interlaced his fingers with Wally's, "And you do protect me. They never believe me without your help. Thank you, Wally."

Wally's gaze softened. He leaned forward and mouthed a soft 'You're welcome.' against Nightwing's lips. Nightwing leaned forward to capture Wally's mouth.

Wally's feeling for time had always been distorted ever since had gotten his powers. Everything around him felt so slooow. People moved like snails sometimes. So, Wally tended to wait for the last possible moment to do something only to end up late after all. It truly was the curse of a speedster. Barry was afflicted by it, too, much to Iris' chagrin.

When Wally was with Nightwing, time didn't matter. Maybe because time didn't matter to a Talon either. Or because Nightwing was naturally captivating and made Wally forget something as mundane as a clock.

Their kiss had grown quite intense, their hands wandering, when Nightwing suddenly tilted his head.

"Person come", he said.

"You sure?", Wally asked.

Maybe it was the inhabitant of another dorm, crossing Wally's door on the way. Nightwing tilted his head in the other direction, silently challenging Wally.

"Right", Wally smirked.

Who was he to doubt Nightwing's instincts?

Nightwing sat up and reached for the nightstand. He frowned when his hand came up empty.

"Wally, where you put necklace?"

"On the nightstand."

"It not there."

"Oops", Wally muttered, "Must have gotten too excited to see you."

He hadn't noticed the necklace dropping off the nightstand.

Nightwing bit his lip, looking tense. A key was rattling in the door. Nightwing was right. It had to be Josh.

Wally gripped Nightwing's arm and rushed him towards the bathroom. He turned on the shower.

"Just pretend you are taking a shower", Wally said, "I'll find the necklace."

He rushed out of the bathroom closing the door behind himse,f. Wally sat down on his bed, just in time for Josh to enter the room.

Josh frowned when he saw Wally sitting on the bed. He took off his backpack.

"What are you doing here, Josh?", Wally asked, "Don't you have class until this afternoon?"

"Professor Johnson is sick", Josh plopped down on the desk chair, "She sent us some exercises that I gotta do now. So lame."

"All right", Wally pushed the nightstand to the side looking for the necklace.

Josh's frown deepened: "Don't you have Intro to Physics right now, West?"

"Do I?", Wally muttered absent-mindedly, running his hand over the floor under the bed.

He had completely lost track of time. Oh well. Sue him for being distracted by his beautiful boyfriend returning to him.

"You're blowing it off?", Josh sounded incredulous, "You? Nerd-West?"

"I'm not that big of a nerd."

Josh scoffed.

Wally dug deeper under the bed. Where had that damn glamour charm vanished off to?

"Wait, is the shower running?"

"As observant as ever, Josh", Wally made a triumphant noise when his fingertips hit something thin and hard.

He pulled the glamour charm out from under the bed.

"Holy shit, West", Josh looked energized suddenly, "Did you blow off class to get laid? Or did you just invite another hot friend over to stay here?"

"Artie really is just a friend."

Josh crossed his arms.

"Well, she is my ex."

"I knew it", Josh punched his fist in the air.

Wally shook his head: "You are far too involved in other people's love lives, Josh."

"What can I say? I like watching tragedies."

"Jerk", Wally hit against Josh's shoulder.

"Wally, you have the clothes?", Nightwing called from the bathroom.

"I got it, Babe. Just give me a second", Wally rummaged through the wardrobe and pulled out a nerdy hoodie that Nightwing must have stolen at least 12 times already.

It must mean that Nightwing like it. Wally entered the bathroom.

Nightwing stood in the middle of the bathroom, his hair wet and a towel wrapped around his middle. Wally kept his eyes on Nightwing's face. Definitely not peeking. They didn't have time for peeking.

"You really took a shower?", Wally asked.

"If I have opportunity", Nightwing shrugged.

He grabbed the clothes from Wally's hand. Wally watched him while he put on the clothes, the glamour charm included.

"You can brush teeth", Nightwing said.

"I would have earlier if someone wasn't such an octopus."

"I like keep you close to my heart, Wally."

Wally smiled while he put toothpaste onto the brush. Nightwing was adorable. Gosh, had Wally missed him.

"I didn't know Josh would come this early", Wally said, "I'm sorry."

"Not your fault", Nightwing said, "We just need be careful."

"He's probably gonna hound you."

"No problem. I have cover story ready."

"You can just leave if you want. We can make up something."

"I not want leave. I want meet your friends and see what your life be like, Wally."

Wally's heart made a small hitch. He hadn't expected Nightwing to show so much initiative.

Nightwing stood next to him, growing ever more mischievous: "At least, we can improve your reputation."

"That should do the job", Wally ran his hand through, Nightwing's wet hair, "You look super-hot by the way. And it's not that necklace – before you start catastrophizing. It's you."

"Love you, Wally", Nightwing cuddled up to Wally from behind, getting drops all over Wally's clothes.

"You don't believe me."

"I believe you."

This time, Wally crossed his arms.

"Fine", Nightwing said, "I believe that you believe I look good."

Wally frowned. He finished brushing his teeth. Nightwing might be different now, but he hadn't magically overcome all his issues. He probably never would. But that was fine. Wally didn't expect him to.

"You have hairdryer?", Nightwing asked.

Wally pointed at the shelf.

Nightwing grabbed it, eager to turn it on.

"Let me guess: You don't like the cold?", Wally smirked.

"I hate be wet."

"Like a cat."

"I a bird. Get with the times."

"Maybe I should call you my bird."

"Please not do", Nightwing shuddered, "Deathstroke call me little bird."

"What the hell?"

"He weird. Not ask me."

Wally shook his head. He left the bathroom with a gaze that promised that they would talk about this later.

"You have a good time?", Josh smirking, still sitting at the desk.

He was holding a pencil but Wally was seeing right through it. Despite the look of it, Josh had only written a title onto the page, leaving it blank otherwise. Holy shit. The noisiness of this guy. He gave Batman a run for his money.

"Get your mind out of the gutter, Josh. I brushed my teeth."

"Before or after you helped him dress?"

Wally rolled his eyes.

"You can't fault a homie for being excited. Does that mean you're finally over your toxic, non-existent ex?"

"About that-", Wally scratched the back of his neck, "That's a funny story."

Josh groaned: "Don't tell me you're back with him, West."

"He's not toxic."

"I'll be the judge of that."

"What the hell, Josh?"

"You can obviously not be trusted with relationships. Alicia agrees by the way", Josh shook his head, "Can't believe I'm meeting your nameless, mysterious, non-existent boyfriend. What is his name by the way? He's here now so you might as well tell me."

"Ahh", Wally bit his lip.

Nightwing had a cover story, but Wally wasn't privy to that cover story. Wally couldn't screw it up by coming up with his own name.

The hairdryer stopped. Nightwing freed Wally from his misery by leaving the bathroom. Wally sighed in relief.

Josh sat up, curiosity visible in his face. Such a sneaky, little bastard.

Nightwing smiled, fiddling with his non-existent claws: "Hi, I Wally's boyfriend."

"You got a name, Wally's boyfriend?"

"Dick Lloyd", Nightwing said.

Wally perked up. He wondered what the reasoning behind the name was.

Josh burst out laughing: "No wonder you didn't tell me his name."

Nightwing frowned.

He signed at Wally: 'Why funny?'

Oh dear.

'Don't worry about it. I'll tell you later, Babe.'

"So, you're together again?", Josh probed.

"Yes", they said in unison.

Wally couldn't help but chuckle.

"Wally was more than a bit vague about why you broke up. So much talk about personal issues."

The twitching of Nightwing's fingertips intensified: "Well, I have lot personal issues. But I work on them."

"Personal issues that hopefully don't hurt West."

Nightwing tilted his head: "What you want say, Josh?"

Wally gritted his teeth. He couldn't help but watch this exchange like a tennis match. It was two people who cared very much about Wally sniping at each other for Wally's sake. It was awkward but it was also weirdly comforting. Wally would always have someone in his corner.

"You didn't turn up here for months. You let West wallow in his depression-"

"I wasn't depressed", Wally interjected.

Josh shushed Wally: "Then this weird break-up because of some mysterious issues you have. Looks like textbook emotional manipulation to me."

Holy shit. Josh wasn't pulling his punches.

Nightwing's face stayed neutral: "Go on."

Nightwing's demeanour was completely Bat now. It probably didn't help his case in front of Josh.

Josh stood up, straightening himself up to his full height. Wally's roommate had been a quarterback in high school before a knee injury had ended his aspirations. Wally could see it now. Josh was towering over both of them. An absolute mountain of a guy.

Still, he stood no chance against Nightwing if it came down to it.

"If you are abusing Wally-"

"I never hurt Wally", anger creeped into Nightwing's voice at the accusation.

"You did for all these months. The way he isolates himself? It's not healthy."

Wally bit his lip. He understood why Josh could believe that Nightwing was abusive. But he was misreading everything because he lacked most of the puzzle pieces.

Wally hoped Josh wouldn't try to attack Nightwing. Even if it was weirdly touching that Josh would fight Wally's abusive boyfriend to protect him.

"You right. I be bad boyfriend past months. But not because I want hurt Wally. I be bad boyfriend because I be hurt by my own trauma and it hurt Wally, too, because he care about me. He break up with me to give me time so I can deal with it. He right break up."

"Still, you're here."

"Because I deal with it on my own and I better now. That be the reason I here", Nightwing sounded increasingly upset.

Despite this, determination was a steady undercurrent in his voice. Nightwing wouldn't budge.

"What could be so severe?"

"Josh", Wally interjected, "That's enough. You can't force him to talk about it."

"It be fine. I want clear it up", Nightwing pushed his fingertips into his palms, "I be from Gotham. Lot fucked-up things happen in Gotham. My parents and I be col-la-te-ral damage while villain fight Batman when I be younger. KGBeast take my parents' lives and he shoot me in the head. It explain why I talk strange. Sometimes, I not can talk at all."

Nightwing truly had come up with a cover story. It was nowhere as gruesome as the truth but it still made Josh pale a few shades.

KGBeast was a deep cut. Wally couldn't help but be impressed by the creativity.

"I'm sorry", Josh deflated, "It truly wasn't my business."

Nightwing bit his lip: "You try protect Wally. I appreciate."

"I think we got off on the wrong foot", Josh said.

"We do", Nightwing's face turned neutral again.

"Are we all getting along now?", Wally asked.

"Yep", Josh nodded at Nightwing, "How about we start over again?"

"I agree."

"Good", Josh reached out and patted Nightwing's shoulder, "Nice to meet you, dude."

Nightwing smiled, blindingly. Wally was taken aback by the change in demeanour.

"Likewise. I very happy meet Wally's friends. I want do for long time."

Josh seemed surprised by the smile, too. He reappraised Nightwing, now that he wasn't presenting as a threat anymore.

"There is no way you snatched him up, West. No way."

Okay. Now, Wally was truly insulted.

"Why?"

Josh gestured at Nightwing: "Did you look at him? He looks like he walked off a magazine cover."

Nightwing grew flustered at the attention. He bit his lip again. Wally worried that he would bite it bloody again. Black blood would be hard to hide from Josh.

"I'm pretty hot myself", Wally said.

"Not if you spend most your time in your room. You paid him to say the sentence 'I'm Wally West's boyfriend.' Admit it."

"I take 263 dollar for hour", Nightwing spoke with the seriousness of a Bat, "Wally pay very well. His parents be rich. He never tell you?"

Josh frowned. He looked more than a bit confused now.

"Really, West?", Josh asked.

Nightwing laughed. Revelling in the chaos he was causing. Wally's face felt hot. Who knew that these two would be such an explosive combination?

"Nah", Nightwing gripped Wally's elbow, "The only thing Wally pay me in is love."

Nightwing kissed Wally's cheek, cuddling up to him. Wally gave him a soft smile. What a dork. Apparently, Nightwing was very determined to polish Wally's reputation. The speedster wouldn't complain.

"You should have brought him here earlier", Josh shook his head, "He's a menace."

"It's his way of being funny", Wally said, "Very Gotham."

"You should totally come to the Gamma-party tonight. They are using their entire clubhouse."

"Gamma?", Wally scrunched up his nose, "They are like a cult."

"But they throw the wildest parties. And they usually invite the cheerleaders."

Nightwing frowned, making his displeasure known.

"Not that his would be relevant for you, West", Josh added quickly, "Come on. It'll be fun."

Wally thought about the loud noises and the absolute wildness of a college party. He hadn't been to a party in far too long. But he couldn't pull Nightwing along to something like this. It would be too much for him.

"I appreciate the offer but-"

"Waaally", Nightwing tugged at Wally's arm, "Let go. It sound fun."

Wally frowned: "You sure, Babe? Your… brain injury isn't that great with the noises and the lights."

"I can wear sunglasses", Nightwing said, "But I want go. I want meet your friends."

"Alicia will be there, too", Josh added.

"See? Meet more of your friends."

"I think friends are usually more encouraging", Wally glared at Josh.

Josh shrugged: "We kid because we love, West."

"We go", Nightwing said.

"I guess you ganged up on me", Wally smiled.

How things could change. Those two had almost been at each other's throat just a few minutes ago.

"And I want see your college."

"You want the campus-tour?", Wally asked, excitement growing within him.

Both sides of his life were finally merging.

Nightwing nodded.

"Let's go then", Wally went to his wardrobe to finally change out of his pyjamas.

"You want join?", Nightwing asked Josh.

"Nah", Josh pointed at his exercises, "I really have to do this after all, and it looks like you lovebirds want some alone-time. I'll interrogate you tonight though."

"I ready. Not sure if you be", Nightwing met Josh's gaze.

He was taking this competitively. Wally was discovering completely new sides in him.

"I'm always ready", Josh answered.

"You better keep your hands off my boyfriend", Wally put on his shoes.

"If I wasn't straight-"

"You asshole", Wally threw a sock at Josh's face.

"You are disgusting, West."

"You are such a frat bro, Josh", Wally said, "You try to get with anything that moves."

"At least, I'm not a nerd."

"You study physics. Everyone who studies physics is a nerd", Wally grabbed his key, "You ready to go, Babe?"

Nightwing looked their exchange with a smile. He nodded, wiping away the speck of blood on his lip with his finger.

Wally opened the door. He interlocked Nightwing's elbow with his own.

"See? I'm not the only one who thinks you are hot", Wally closed the door behind them.

"Who think Dick Grayson be hot."

"Which is you."

"You right."

Nightwing still seemed pensive though. His face was creased into a frown.

"Let's give you the tour", Wally changed the topic.

Nightwing's face lighted up. He looked happier than when Wally had seen him during the last few months. Absolutely beautiful and radiant. Wally wanted him so bad. He hoped they would get some alone-time soon. Curse Josh for barging in on them.

Donna and Kory were in mid-air. The ocean extended in front of them during their flight towards Themyscira.

"We're almost there", Donna said.

Kory accelerated her pace and looped up into the air: "It's wonderful."

Donna followed Kory. They ended up chasing each other around, unable to keep in their laughter.

Donna couldn't help but be infected by Kory's enthusiasm. The Tamaranean was right. Donna hadn't felt so free for a long time.

"It was getting stuffy in that pod", Donna agreed.

Kory's face darkened: "I'll never be pushed into a cage ever again."

"You won't", Donna said, "We won't let anyone hurt you."

Kory launched herself at Donna and pulled her into a hug that pushed the air out of her. Donna laughed and put her arms around Kory.

"You'll fit right in on Themyscira", Donna said, "You've already got the Amazon-spirit."

"I haven't fit in anywhere for a long time", Kory said.

"I get what you mean."

She loved her sisters but staying on Themyscira with her occasional trips as an ambassador felt restrictive. Donna hadn't been born on Themyscira. She had been born in man's world only brought into the world of the Amazons by Diana. Diana had saved her then. She was still saving Donna in so many ways every day.

Still, Donna heard the call of heroism from man's world - just as Diana had so many decades ago.

The endless blue was broken up with a shore at the horizon. Donna's heart fluttered when she saw the green line.

"Come on", Donna accelerated her pace, "We're almost there."

Kory followed. She had soon caught up with Donna. Donna smiled. Usually, no one except Diana kept up with her.

When Donna's first foot landed on Themyscira's beaches, she was greeted by an envoy of Amazons. Diana stood at the front with Hippolyta and Nubia behind her.

Kory made a sound of wonder as she took in the island. The long and white beaches. The rustling trees. The buildings on the hills with their intricate architecture.

Donna couldn't help but look over to the olive tree where she had buried her friend. A pang filled her chest.

"Donna", Diana sounded joyful, but there was a serious undercurrent to her voice.

Donna exchanged hugs with her sisters. She looked from Kory to the Amazons.

"Sisters, this is Koriandr, also called Starfire. She is my teammate and friend."

Kory lighted up at the word. Donna introduced the Amazons.

"We caught a fleeting glimpse of each other on the Watchtower, but it is wonderful to properly make your acquaintance", Diana stepped forward, "I have heard of your bravery, Starfire. Any ally of Donna's is my ally, too."

Diana held out her hand. Starfire shook it, growing a bit flustered. It was the first time Donna had seen her like this. Diana had that effect on people.

"I will always fight for what is right", Kory said with conviction.

"Spoken like a true Amazon", Hippolyta said, "We have heard of your current situation. You are always welcome on Themyscira if you wish so."

"I am honored, your Majesty", Kory said.

Donna looked at Diana: "You called me here?"

She dreaded the answer.

Diana seemed pensive suddenly: "We have a new Amazon to welcome."

Donna frowned: "From the Well of Souls? But no Amazon has emerged from there for almost two centuries."

"It was very unexpected", Nubia said.

Kory frowned: "Well of Souls?"

"Amazons are reincarnated from the Well", Donna said, "Nubia was the last to emerge."

"You are making me feel old", Nubia joked.

"So, where is our new Amazon? I assume you called me to meet her", Donna said.

"She is waiting for you", Diana nodded into the direction of the cliff.

Donna turned around. She hadn't noticed the figure standing there, overlooking the sea. She must have been standing behind the olive tree before – at the angle that was hidden for Donna's eyes. Donna wondered if it was intentional or if she was reading into things.

She frowned as she approached the hill. The longer she looked, the more she discerned. The woman's hand was resting on the grave marker Io, the blacksmith, had made for Donna's friend.

Starfire nodded at Donna, silently telling her to go.

Donna bit her lip. She had a creeping understanding why the Amazons had grown so silent suddenly, but she didn't want to believe it yet. The disappointment would be too painful if Donna's hope turned out to be false.

Donna walked up the cliff, each step deliberate and careful. The woman's back was to her, her frizzy hair, open and floating in the wind. Just like the white dress she wore. She looked ethereal – fitting for an Amazon who had recently emerged from the Well.

The woman tensed at Donna's steps. She turned around, her hand still on the marker.

Donna froze when she saw her friend's face. The paperwhite skin had made way for an olive tan, the black veins receded. She looked so different but still the same in everything that mattered.

"You are back", Donna's voice broke.

Her legs worked on autopilot as she bridged the distance between her and her friend for a hug. Her friend put her arms around Donna.

"I'm back", her voice was louder now than when she had been Talon, more assured.

"How?", Donna's eyes filled with tears of joy.

"I don't know. I felt the pain and the emptiness. Death came to get me. She was… comforting. She made me feel protected. I was at peace. I was ready to go with her but then she told me that it wasn't my time yet. That I would get a second chance with a new home. And then I dragged myself out of that well", she shook her head as if she couldn't believe the story herself, "I laid on that cave floor for a while until Nubia found me. The Amazons – they took care of me. They were so nice but I missed you."

"I missed you, too", Donna wiped a tear off her cheek.

"I can see that", Donna's friend ran her hand over the headstone, tears running down her own face, "I never had anyone do something like this for me. It means so much."

"You like it?"

"I come here every day and think of you. I have so many friends now – sisters. But you were my first one."

Donna smiled under her tears.

"I never properly met you", Donna said.

Donna's friend tilted her head. She looked like an Amazon now instead of a Talon, but she still had her Talon-habits. Donna wondered how much of the trauma was left. The well gave a new chance at life for those who deserved it but it didn't clean away everything.

"Well, Talon is not a real name, is it?"

"I chose one for myself", Donna's friend looked excited, almost giddy, "Can you believe that? Choosing your own name?"

"Let's hear it."

"I'm Alessandra now."

"The defender", Donna remembered her Greek lessons well enough, "I like it."

"I don't want to fight anymore", Alessandra said, "I will if my home is threatened. But I still asked Hippolyta if there was a task for me that doesn't involve fighting. So, I'm helping Oenone in the gardens for now."

"For now?"

Alessandra shrugged: "I'm still trying to find my purpose. I never got to choose one in my first life."

"I'm sure you will. You just need time. I needed time to find mine, too."

"I heard about your superhero-team."

"You make it sound so big."

"It is big", Alessandra said, "You're already my favorite."

"We'll do our best to measure up."

"You already measured up when you freed us all."

Donna shook her head, unable to keep the bitterness out of hr voice: "It was our first mission and we lost you."

"You can't blame yourself for that. I made my choice. It was the first real choice I made on my own. I died for it, but I don't regret it."

"You saved lives. You are a hero – no matter what you do from now on."

"Just like you, Donna."

"Hero feels like such a big word."

Alessandra clasped Donna's shoulder: "You didn't lose me by the way. I'm here."

Donna shook her head in disbelief: "You are. It's a gift."

"I seek to cherish it."

"You deserve it."

"I don't feel like it", Alessandra lowered her head, "But I'm trying to be worthy of it. To be a good Amazon. I was a good Talon, too, I guess but it was never something I believed in."

Donna thought of the way the Talons had been treated. All the humiliations she had seen Nightwing endure. What he had told them about the Court. The Court had never been about belief. Only pain and obedience.

"It's proof now. Talons have a soul", Alessandra said.

"I never doubted it."

"I did. It's hard to feel like you have a soul if you barely feel human. But maybe I was human after all."

Donna frowned, thinking about Alessandra's words. She couldn't even imagine to feel so dehumanized.

"You need to tell Nightwing", Alessandra said, "I'm sure he'd be happy to know."

"I will."

They stood there for a while, just watching the sea. Alessandra's hand ran over the gravestone. There was a tenderness to her touch as if the little marker truly meant the world to her.

Donna understood now. Alessandra had never expected to be immortalized.

Donna asked after a while: "Did you already visit the Tavern of Tesmophoria?"

"I didn't have the chance yet. I spent the last few days just getting used to living again."

"Oh, you're in for a treat", Donna interlaced her elbow with Alessandra's and led her down the hill, "Let's show you what living really means."

Kory's floated towards them, meeting them halfway on the way down. Her face lighted up at the sight of Alessandra.

"I am overjoyed to see you", Kory said, "This reincarnation is wonderful."

"It is", Alessandra said, "Death herself said it's a gift."

Donna smiled.

She turned to Kory: "Hey Kory. You want to check out a tavern that is by blessed the gods?"

"What is a tavern?", Kory asked.

"You'll like it", Donna looked at her sisters, "You want to join?"

"We'll leave this one to you", Diana smiled in amusement.

"Don't overdo it, child", Hippolyta yelled after them.

"I would never do that, Mom", Donna said.

Donna and Kory joked on their way to the tavern. After a while, Alessandra joined in. She was a bit more restrained, hesitant. But Donna could already see her opening up.

Donna's chest felt so much lighter. Her friend was back, and the gods had blessed her with the second chance she deserved.

Josh had not exaggerated. The building was positively shaking with pop hits from the last decade by the time Wally and Nightwing arrived. College students got weirdly nostalgic on their parties.

"You okay?", Wally leaned over, whispering into Nightwing's ear.

He was wearing sunglasses and Bat-earplugs that were almost invisible to anyone who wasn't in the know. It made him look mysterious.

"I good", Nightwing grabbed Wally's hand, "You?"

"Excited I guess", Wally said, "I never really brought any boyfriends anywhere in public. You're the first one."

Nightwing tilted his head.

"The people in high school were assholes. I never really had a boyfriend before you. Just boys I would sneak around and try things with. Everyone knew anyway. They thought I was gay - that my girlfriends were just a cover. The Team were the only ones who would accept me as I am. I mean Kaldur's bi, so I wasn't alone. Barry and the League, too."

Nightwing squeezed Wally's hand: "Exciting day for both us."

"You can say so. There was always this divide between my hero-life and my personal life. Now, it feels like things are blurring together."

"It come together because I not out the life."

Wally frowned. Nightwing was right. The mission had not completely let go off Wally. It wouldn't as long as Wally was dating a hero.

"You angry because not leave?"

"I wouldn't say angry. More worried. Should I be honest?"

"Always, Wally."

"I wish you were out together with me. But I know that's not an option for you."

Nightwing bit his lip: "It not. I not can sit aside. I have responsibility for make things good."

"You're going to dedicate your life to the mission out of guilt?"

"Not guilt. Not anymore. Responsibility. I need do good, Wally. I want do good. And maybe I can improve my life-death ratio, too", Nightwing tightened his grip on Wally's hands, "But it not main reason anymore. So much suffering in the world, Wally. I suffer, too. And I not want people suffer. So, I try my best that they not. I try protect them. I not can protect everyone but I try best – always."

Wally smiled: "And you don't call yourself a hero?"

Nightwing shuffled his foot. He looked uncomfortable suddenly.

"How do you feel about me leavingthe life?", Wally asked, curiosity springing up in him.

Nightwing sounded tense, tight-lipped: "It your decision. I support."

"You can support it while still feeling conflicted about it though."

The shuffling of Nightwing's foot intensified: "I rather have you at my side. I miss you as partner. But I know you not want. So, I just happy you safe now."

"We both don't really get what we want, huh?"

"Relationship be about compromise."

Wally frowned: "Not that I'm not impressed by your wisdom but where did you get that from?"

Nightwing smirked: "Between Tulips and Windmills."

"I don't have that one. It sounds very Dutch."

"I have book home. Can lend. But I need back because I want read again."

"You think I would lose it?", Wally sounded offended.

"I love you veeery much, Wally, but-"

"Nevermind", Wally shook his head.

He may be a bit inattentive, but he wouldn't lose one of N's favorite books. Totally not. And if he happened to lose it (hypothetically), he would get N another copy. Wally was a good boyfriend.

His phone buzzed in his pocket. A a message by Josh:

"Did the money you pay your 'boyfriend' run out?"

"Oh that jerk", Wally shook his head, "We need to go inside."

"What happen?"

Wally showed his screen to Nightwing. His boyfriend quietly formed the words while reading. He laughed once he had finished.

"Why are you laughing?"

"He very funny."

"You know that he's implying I pay you for sex?"

Nightwing shrugged and pulled Wally towards the building: "Come on. Let show him you have money."

"Unbelievable", Wally muttered, "If anything, I should be the one who gets paid for this. You're the kid of a billionaire."

Nightwing clutched his chest: "How can you do this to me, Wally? Only use me for my money."

"Someone's gotta pay for my ramen."

They crossed the threshold passing a drunken fratbro who was vomiting into the bushes in front of the house. Charming. Wally had forgotten how chaotic college parties were. He had missed it.

Nightwing tensed as the full force of the music hit him.

"I'm serious, babe. We can leave if it's too much."

"And I be serious that I want meet your friends", Nightwing squeezed Wally's hand, "But I tell you if need leave."

They walked towards the common room. Wally spotted Josh, Alicia and a few others on the couches. Apparently, they had secured an entire corner for themselves.

"You need to pretend you are drinking alcohol", Wally said, "I can drink it up when no one's looking."

"You not get drunk?"

"Speedster metabolism. Never been drunk in my life", Wally grinned, taking two cups from a tray, "Let's get this party started."

Nightwing took the cup from Wally. He looked down at the alcohol with a tilted head. Trying to decipher what was so special about it.

"West, you are actually here", Josh hollered over the music when they approached the couches.

"Where's that cheerleader, Josh?", Wally yelled back.

"She's just as real as your boyfriend", Josh said.

Alicia sat up: "You brought your boyfriend, Wally? No way."

She sounded just as incredulous as Josh. Naturally. Alicia was Josh's partner-in-crime in everything that mattered. Apparently, they had dated for a short bit, but it hadn't worked out.

Now, they were just friends who were joined at the hip and Wally had gotten into their little duo by virtue of being Josh's roommate. It was awkward sometimes when the three of them hung out. And more than a bit lonely. But Wally had his own plus-one now.

"I Wally's boyfriend", Nightwing held out his hand, unsure whom to address, "Nice meet."

Alicia jumped up, gripping his hand in a vice-grip: "Holy shit, you are actually real. You owe me 50 bucks, Josh."

"I still believe West paid him. No way West pulled that."

Nightwing tightening his hand around Wally's: "Why not? Wally be very handsome and funny and smart. He the best. I love be with him."

Nightwing turned his head to Wally's pushing a kiss onto his lips. Wally couldn't keep himself from beaming.

The rest of the group looked dumbstruck. Nightwing's sincerity was disarming. It had struck Wally from the first time they met.

"You don't even know how charming you are", Wally whispered into Nightwing's ear, "And I think you are more invested in improving my rep than I am."

"You deserve great rep."

"For the sake of my ego, I would love for you to keep talking."

"See?", Josh gestured towards them, "West definitely paid him to say that. They are not being subtle."

"Shut up, Josh", Alicia elbowed him, "Some people are still romantics – unlike you. I expect my 50 bucks by cash or transfer in at maximum three bank days."

"Can you believe her?", Josh gestured at Alicia in faux exasperation.

Nightwing seemed amused: "You better pay the woman."

Alicia smirked: "Oh, I like your boyfriend, Wally. Why did you hide him from us?"

She pulled Nightwing and Wally onto the couch next to her.

"Oh, we definitely need to play Truth or Dare. I need to learn all the details. What's your name, Wally's boyfriend?"

Why were all of Wally's friends so nosy? It was a plague with them.

"I'm Dick", Nightwing said.

"Dick from Gotham", Josh said.

Alicia didn't make fun of the name. Wally thanked her for it.

"You ready for Truth or Dare, Gotham?", Alicia asked.

"Not really", Nightwing answered, "What need do?"

Wally's friends looked shocked.

"You don't know the rules of Truth or Dare?", Josh exclaimed.

Nightwing shuffled his foot. He was growing more nervous.

"In Gotham, your entire life is a Truth or Dare", Wally interjected before Nightwing could grow too uncomfortable, "Just watch what I'm doing."

"You're volunteering to go first, West?", Josh asked.

"I'm not a coward", Wally took a generous sip from his cup, "I'm taking-"

"Truth", Alicia interjected, "How did you two meet?"

"That's not how the game works. You're confusing him", Wally protested, "But well, I wanted to choose Truth anyway. We met while I was on an excursion to Gotham. I got jumped by some gangsters – because it's Gotham and I'm just a humble midwestern boy. So, this little ninja jumped in and fought them off. I helped by the way. I happen to know some moves myself."

"You fought off some gangsters?", Josh asked.

Nightwing shrugged: "My parents teach acrobatics before they… I learn from them. And you need learn how to fight in Juvie."

"Juvie?"

"Nah", Wally said, "You gotta ask him about that if he chooses Truth."

They continued the game. Wally was impressed by Nightwing's ability to lie through his teeth during all the truths. There was enough validity in his answers to make them believable.

Meanwhile, Wally mostly chose Dare. His chosen challenges mostly included drinking obscene amounts of alcohol.

In-between Wally grabbed Nightwing's drink when no one was looking and drained it in milliseconds. He felt a slight tingle in his body. Not drunk. Wally would never be drunk. Just a bit more energetic than usual – which was quite a feat.

It was Nightwing's turn again: "I choose-"

"You can't just always choose Truth", Josh interjected, "Time for a Dare. What should we make him do?"

Nightwing tensed at the idea of having to drink alcohol in front of everyone. His stomach wouldn't digest any of it.

"He can do some crazy acrobatics-shit", Wally said, "You should take a look."

Alicia perked up: "Can you do a split?"

Nightwing tilted his head: "That your dare?"

"I dare you to do a split. To the floor. If you can't do it, you need to drink a cup."

Naturally, Nightwing did. He did the split without much ado. Looking up at them with a tilted head while he stayed in the position.

"I do right?", Nightwing asked.

"How do you do this? I ripped my thigh muscles open in ballet class", Alicia shook her head.

"His bones are made of rubber", Wally couldn't keep the pride out of his voice, "That's nothing for him."

Truth or Dare went on. Alicia and Josh chose increasingly challenging acrobatics exercises to do. Nightwing grew more relaxed. He smiled while doing a flip for Wally's friends. And then two. And three. And then a handstand-walk on his fingertips.

At some point, they dropped the game. Josh stood up to imitate Nightwing's move. To his credit, he kept up quite well. Nightwing restrained himself a bit especially because they were earning attention from other partygoers.

"You really should have brought him earlier", Alicia muttered at Wally, "He's a cool guy. Josh and I expected the worst to be honest."

"I appreciate the concern. Dick and I make it work even if we aren't perfect."

"I can see that", Alicia said.

"I never brought a boyfriend anywhere. The people in high school would have never let me hear the end of it", Wally said, "Just because you were wondering why I didn't have you met him earlier."

Another half-truth. Still, it felt like a relief to finally voice his concerns.

Alicia's eyes shown in understanding: "I'm sorry, Wally. Josh and I were probably too pushy."

"I can't deny that. You mean well though and that means a lot to me."

Alicia smiled. Her hand squeezed Wally's shoulder.

Josh had given up in his attempts to imitate Nightwing and was just watching his handstand like the others. Nightwing went down from his handstand. He raised his arms in a finishing pose, smiling at Wally's friends. There were some cheers.

Nightwing shuffled his foot, not used to the attention. Still, he looked happy as he dropped his arms. Wally could see the circus-kid in him now more than ever.

The speedster stood up from the couch reaching for Nightwing's hand: "You want to dance?"

Nightwing allowed Wally to pull him onto the dance floor. Wally couldn't keep himself from beaming as they lost themselves to the music. Rarely, had he had so much fun. He barely thought about what the others would think. Everyone who mattered supported him.

The song that played was far too quick to be romantic. Still, Wally held Nightwing close as they moved to the rapid music. The energy from the song was infectious.

"Wally, you become too quick", Nightwing muttered.

Wally looked down at his feet. They had indeed started to go quicker than a normal person could. He forced them slower again.

"Getting a bit too excited there. Been too long since we had alone-time."

"You tell me about it."

"It doesn't have to be that way", Wally hinted.

"Remember when I promise that I assault you next time we alone?", Nightwing interlaced his hands behind Wally's neck.

"I do", Wally licked his lips.

The memory had followed him into his dreams.

"I really want assault you but we not alone", Nightwing's lips were enticingly slow.

Wally just wanted to kiss him up against the next wall at this point. Or have Nightwing push him against one with his enhanced strength. Both painted an enticing picture.

"You want to ditch the party?", Wally asked.

Without another word, Nightwing grabbed Wally's hand and pulled him off the dance floor. He was impatient. Eager. It was adorable.

"I'm getting abducted", Wally yelled at Josh – who really was dancing with a cheerleader by now.

Josh shook his head: "I guess I really have to pay Alicia those 50 bucks."

"Just to be clear: The dorm is mine for the next three hours. Move your ass somewhere else."

Josh shook his head: "You've become so territorial, West."

"The right of the winner and the burden of the loser."

Wally and Nightwing left the house. The cold air was clearing Wally's head a bit.

"I showed him", Wally bumped his fist in the air, "He better delete that stupid Tinder-account now."

"He better do", Nightwing attacked Wally's mouth with a deep kiss.

Never mind the clear head, Wally couldn't think anymore.

They spent their way to the dorm half-making out, half-walking. Wally slammed the door behind them shut, locking it.

Before he could do much else, Nightwing lunged at him, wrapping his legs around Wally's middle. Wally soaked in a breath, struggling with holding so much Nightwing. He stumbled towards the bed, dropping his boyfriend onto the mattress.

Nightwing pulled him down. Wally allowed himself to be pulled. Nightwing turned them around, so that he was on top, smirking down at Wally.

"You are so different", Wally said.

"Good different?", Nightwing leaned above Wally, their lips mouthing at each other.

"You look so happy."

"I be happy", Nightwing said, "Not everything perfect but I happy."

"I get it. You're finally free from that damn mission and I hear you got your own team now."

"I go meet up with Titans after visit."

Wally tensed. Nightwing's time in Fawcett had been like a dream. The speedster hadn't considered what would happen once Nightwing would leave. It put a dampener on his mood.

"And we're walking different ways again", Wally said.

"No", Nightwing pinned Wally's wrists to the mattress, hovering over him, "I come visit. You come visit Titans. We together. I fight for us, Wally."

Wally's heart raced, another rush of excitement cursing through his body. Nightwing was saying all the things today Wally had been waiting so long for.

"You're serious", it was a statement, not a question.

"About us? Always", Nightwing grew a bit flustered, "I already make… plans for us in my head."

"Plans?"

"It too early, Wally. For… the future."

Wally grinned at the prospect. He'd love to know what these plans entailed but he wouldn't press. It was enough that Nightwing was even imagining a future for them. Wally was certainly having some ideas of his own.

Wally gripped Nightwing's torso pulling him down. Leaving no space between them. Just how Wally preferred it. Nightwing had similar ideas. He attacked Wally's mouth for real now. Leaving the speedster no space to breath.

There was a thud and Nightwing made a little sound. One of his toes had hit the wall.

"Your bed be very small", Nightwing scrunched up his face.

"I think it's to encourage abstinence."

"What mean?"

"They want us students to stay good little virgins until we are married."

"It work out for them?", Nightwing tilted his head.

It was adorable with the way he was hovering directly over Wally's face.

"You being on top of me right now may be a first indication but I need further evidence."

"We test it."

Wally chuckled, running his hand through Nightwing's silky hair: "You know the thing about scientific tests?"

Nightwing hummed while he kissed along Wally's neck - implicitly telling him to go on. The speedster's neck was tingling from the soft touches. It almost made him forget what he wanted to say.

Still, Wally continued: "They have to be repeated to ensure reliability."

Nightwing chuckled: "Nerd."

"You love it."

Nightwing answered by pulling off Wally's shirt and kissing himself down Wally's chest. Wally allowed himself to get lost in the moment again. Nightwing wouldn't be here forever. Wally couldn't expect him to stay here forever.

But in this moment Nightwing was here. Time didn't matter now. Just what Wally's speedster heart needed.

AN: Ahhh. Look at this happy chapter. The Birdflash-ship is soaring on full speed this time.