"The big story of the night" said the talking head newswoman on the television screen, "is the report of yet another brutal murder in Gotham that may be the work of the mysterious Joker who the police still have next to no lead on." At this point in the broadcast Alfred Pennyworth's attention was diverted from the screen to a much more pressing matter, the man for whom he worked.
"Ah, Master Wayne, I was beginning to wonder if you may be pulling an all-nighter."
"Something came up Alfred on my way home from work."
"Why yes, sir, it's been all over the news, but surprisingly, no coverage or word that Batman was there."
"Yeah well, the police don't want anyone knowing that I'm working with them. They seem to think it's a bad idea for the media to see me working with them. They prefer that I be viewed as a loner who isn't capable of anything but street fighting."
"Ah, I understand, Commission Hughes doesn't want you stealing his glory for the recent work against the mob."
"That obvious, huh?"
"Quite so sir. So what is the next step in locating this Joker figure?" Alfred asked, and for one of the first times since he could remember he legitimately did not know how his employer and friend would respond.
At this question, Bruce shifted uncomfortably and headed over to the liquor cabinet to pour himself a drink. This job really is beginning to get to him, Alfred thought to himself as he wondered how much longer Bruce Wayne and Batman would be able to coexist before one had to destroy the other.
"At this point, Alfred, I really just do not know. It's the damndest thing, you know. Patterns almost always emerge in these situations, but thus far, not a thing has emerged. He's killed crooks and doctors, his henchmen have mugged beggars and lawyers, and he has struck in the Narrows and uptown Gotham. There's just no way to anticipate his next move." With this Bruce let out a long groan and slumped down on the couch and took a long drag from his bourbon.
"Don't worry sir, I'm sure things will be looking up for you, these things just tend to take time. And besides, you received a phone call today while you were out."
"Today? Who would call me here during the day, everyone knows where I work."
"Miss Dawes, sir. She called around noon, didn't want to disturb you at work, said it was nothing big, just wanted to talk to you later on."
"Rachel? Alfred why didn't you tell me" Despite the sound of the words, Alfred knew Bruce was not the least bit upset with him, and that all he would be able to think about was the nature of Rachel's call. "I guess I'd better return that call now" said Bruce, trying to act calmer about the whole ordeal, though Alfred wasn't fooled for a second.
Bruce pulled out his cell phone and dialed Rachel's number from memory just to be certain that he knew it, though it was on the speed dial already.
"Hello?" Rachel Dawes answered from across town, obviously still awake from a long night at the District Attorney's office.
"Rachel? Hi it's Bruce."
"Bruce, it's great to hear from you."
"What's going on?"
"Listen Bruce, I want to talk to you about your job, but I can't really do it right now."
"My job? Is there something Wayne Enterprises can help you out with, you know we're always happy to help the D.A."
"No, not that, actually I meant your OTHER job," Rachel replied quickly, leaving no doubt in her words as to what she was referring.
"Oh, right, well did you want to do it face to face?"
"Yeah I think that would be best, somewhere private preferably."
"Sure, do you want to stop by my office tomorrow afternoon maybe?"
"I have a case tomorrow, but I could come by afterwards, will you still be there around 4?
"Yeah as long as my other job doesn't require my attention."
"That sounds good, I'll see you then."
"Okay see you Rachel."
And, feeling rather happier than he had in several days, Bruce hung up the phone and turned to look at Alfred who was giving Bruce his usual sarcastic smirk which always managed to quickly wipe the glowing look off of Bruce's face. Bruce got up quickly and headed down towards his new and improved basement. Aware of what Alfred was about to say, Bruce shouted behind him, "Don't even start Alfred."
"Sir I swear I don't know what you mean by that."
"Whatever you say Alfred."
"Are you headed back out sir? You do realize it's already getting quite late sir."
"Don't worry Alfred, I'm not going anywhere. I'm in for the evening; I just want to do some analysis based on the evening news and such. I'll be calling it a night soon enough."
"Very good sir."