Updated. Hi, here's some happiness for Kori. I think she deserves some. The next couple chapters are going to be a lot more light hearted. I hope you enjoy!
I do not own Teen Titans.
Gotham Memorial Library was filled with people rushing around. School students buried their noses in paper work and huge books with over nine hundred words per page. Every Sunday they had volunteers read to the city children who were under privileged, as well as helping them learn to read seated in the corner. It was one of the good things done to try and fix this city. I looked onto them with a smile. Beside the main entrance a tall bulky man stood. Long fiery Orange bread adorned his oh so familiar face.
"Uncle Galfore!" I said running up to him and being engulfed in his warm arms. Tears struck my eyes and I felt safer in the arms I have missed for years.
"My bungorf oh how I've missed you," he said tightening his hold on me.
We stayed in that embrace for a longtime. My nerves calming down. Finally, he looked at me, "my Little Starfire," his voice was filled with warmth at my childhood nickname, "what has happened to you?" Pain was evident in his face although he tried to hold it in.
"Oh uncle now is not the place," I said somber.
"Then let us be on our way." He said walking towards my things and holding all of it in his big hands. I followed him toward the parking lot where we popped into his ford F 150, the green color was worn down drastically since I had last seen him.
"I am the surprised this beast still runs." I teased as he unlocked the cabin.
The truck whined as it took on his weight. "This beast shall never cease running, not while I am still alive."
"Then let us pray she runs forever." I said with a pinch of my heart while he smiled with happy tears behind his eyes.
"Thank you," he said trying to cover up his emotions and I smiled.
Uncle Galfore lives thirty minutes outside of Gotham; works at his hardware store and does a great job of taking care of those around him. Sadly, I was never able to be one.
When my mother died four years ago my step-father naturally gained custody. My uncle Galfore, who truly is not related to me in any other way other than a great friend to my parents, tried to win custody over me when he first saw my step-fathers parenting skills.
The case went on for almost two years of evidence being tampered with and my step-father pretending. Plus...my mother wanted me to be under my step-father. I have to believe she thought it was the best, she could not have predicted how he'd treat me. Galfore was forbidden to talk to me anymore, and my step-father even threatened to put a restraining order on him.
In the past I had been scared to speak to my beloved uncle, terrified of my step-fathers repercussions and letting my mother down. Today however had been enough. I felt guilty still the further I got away from Gotham. I knew I had to be back for school...for work. Oh how would I explain that to him? He would never let me go back if he knew the gravity of the situation.
As we pulled up to his home I felt my heart flutter with hope, maybe telling him everything would be good for me. Maybe living here could be good for me too. My heart screamed out someone name I tried to ignore. Moving here would mean giving up my friendships, and my way of life. Not that it was all too great, but my friends helped me with so much. I couldn't just leave them.
Uncle Galfores house was littered with old license plate signs, and street signs automobile parts that spilled out from his working garage along with junkyard cars waiting to cease to rust. As a child I was fascinated by how many cars he had around. Ryan and I would play driver or some kind of game in them all the time. But those days are long gone.
We both walked in, he heaved my bags into the living room that was full of paperwork and stacked books. Then he walked into the kitchen and began cooking something.
"Are you hungry?" He asked.
My stomach rumbled "not particularly" I was starving but I could not bring myself to eat after this morning.
"Okay." He said cooking two large pieces of meat and the veggies. I smiled, he was a sweet man. I missed him dearly.
"You seemed to have accumulated more clutter" I giggled.
"Do you not know that is what happens over time?" He said sadly. "Maybe with you around more we can work on organizing it." I hated the drafted sound in his voice, like he knew I would not stay. That I could not.
"Uncle I am glad to have seen you, and that you have come to see me on such short notice." I looked out onto the darkening sky, "all I know is in Gotham. My friends and school." I smiled, "plus Dick Grayson is helping me get into Gotham Academy."
Galfore humphed.
"What does that mean?" I said taking a little offensive.
"I do not give in too much of the media, but from what I know he does not have your best interest in mind."
"That is not true!" I said standing up and he turned around with a raised hand, and a smooth voice.
"Princess I did not mean it against him. I am only looking out for you, in anyway I can."
I sat down and sighed "my anger is not towards you but those beasts in the media. He is a kind hearted man and so sweet. I cannot imagine him being cruel."
"People may surprise you Starfire," he then smiled "you never know though." He was trying to help me, or show he had nothing against Dick. Although I could tell he was not too fond of him either.
"Uncle Galfore," I said quietly, " I need to go back at soon."
"Then why call me!" He said raising his voice only a little, he covered his face with his hands, "forgive me. I have not seen you, nor do I know of what has come of you. All I can imagine is terrible things Kori. It is hard picturing you going back there."
I bowed my head "I know..." My voice was weak with a heart that felt like it was shrinking with every new breath. I felt as if I should cry, the numb state I was in wouldn't allow it.
Galfore embraced me in a hug, "it is the o and k Kori. You will go back, and you will see your friends, work on a way to get you into that academy. As long as you are safe, I will be happy with your decision."
"Thank you." I said with my arms still around him. There was not much more I could say; today's events shocked me. Seeing Galfore brought back memories both joyful and full of pain, it was hard to know which emotion to follow.
I looked over to the clock and knew I was working soon. What could I tell miss Kate? I would be fired for sure. Although in the end was that a bad thing? I did not enjoy the work, I was ashamed of it. In a way it was not fun, and I felt dirty after dancing, older men drooling at my moves and body. Working there was also connected to my step-father, I was ridding myself of him, did that not mean to change my occupation? No matter how much money it made.
Pulling out my phone for the first time all day I saw five missed texts combined with Rachael and Dick. Of course, I could not look at that now I had to call Miss Kate.
My chest felt tight, nerves not knowing what to do with themselves as the phone rang. What would I tell her? I've never quit a job before. What could I possibly say?
"Hello Kate speaking" her voice was seductive, as it was every time she answered the phone.
"Hello Miss Kate this is Kori." My voice was trembling.
"Oh hey what's wrong?" Either she heard my quivering voice or she assumed because I called.
"Well I moved out of my step-fathers house, and..." I hesitated," I'm with my uncle who lives far away-"
"So you won't make it to work again? Kori you can't make a habit of this, one night is fine and I understand you have a lot going on. But I'm running a business here, I can't have you gone all the time."
"Yes I, I know..." I took a deep breath," but I cannot work there anymore."
The line became eerily quiet.
"Hello...?"
"Kori." Her voice was stern, "I pulled a lot of strings to get you this job. I worked with you, I'm already down Pearl because she sprained her ankle and now you're QUIETING? I'm sorry but calling is very unprofessional. This is a business and if you're going to act like this then I don't won't you working for me."
I did not understand why she was being so mean, normally she was so kind and nice. Guilt was all I could feel in this moment, I did not not know what to do.
"Miss Kate I appreciate everything you've done for me and will carry that always. But I cannot work there anymore it is too close to my step-father and I am trying to better my life. Thank you for me working there I am sorry this is unprofessional, but I must do this."
She took a deep sigh "fine, what's your current address so I can mail you your remaining paycheck?"
"Oh I do not have a current address right now." I did not know if I was living with Galfore or not. If I could mail things to him, possibly I could have them at the post office. "Is there any way to leave it at the post office in my name?"
"I'll leave it at Gotham Post office by the library. Have a nice life." Then the line went dead.
I felt a wave of relief, even though the guilt still lingered. I would miss the friends I made there, however, I knew this was for the best. Possibly I could get another job as a waitress or receptionist, Liberian even. Either way I was too tired to think of much right now. My body and brain were moving like a snail, if that was the right way of saying it.
"Uncle Galfore?" He appeared from the kitchen holding two live chickens.
"Yes my little bungorf."
"Where can I go to rest, it has been an exhausting day."
"Upstairs in the second bedroom," he then walked back into the kitchen while the chickens squawked.
His stairs creaked almost like the ones up to my old house, although the smell of cheese was missing. Old pictures adorned the walls, some with dust that looked imbedded into the frame, others fairly new or always cleaned. Those were ones of us.
It was the Christmas before my mother died; Galfore dressed up as a red-haired Santa (who I still believe is creepy and do not understand the silly tradition) while my mother was wearing a beautiful navy blue dress, Kom wore this adorable black sweater and plain pants, while my brother was still in his PJ's. We were all smiling and happy that day, holding each other close as my step-father took the picture.
Tears pricked my eyes, accompanied by the dull ach in my core.
I pushed it away and moved on, not paying much attention to the mess in the faded dark green hallway carpet, or what laid on the bed. Just shifted it off and laid down. Hopefully soon sleep would find me.
Dick Grayson would not stop texting me.
He had no idea where I was, just knew it was not 'home.' I liked that he did not push for me to tell him things, he just let it go and kept me laughing. It was not a bad constant texting, he just interested in everything I said.
I think he, like Racheal were glad to know I was not home, or with my step-father. Racheal did not know much about Galfore only that he was a close family friend. As far as she knew though anyone was better than my step-father. Neither of them knew about what he did to make me leave. How could I even begin to tell them that? I was so ashamed.
'So how's the farm?' Dick sent.
'It's more of a graveyard for cars.'
'Graveyards can be cool, yah know fixing up cars and stuff. You ever get to do that?'
'On occasion, I've worked on a few bikes here and there.'
'You're lying.' I knew he was teasing.
'No joke, summers up here Galfore taught me stuff.'
'Jase and I do that a lot in the garage, maybe you'd like to join?'
'I'm really not that good.'
'So? It's fun.'
'Okay J'
Galfore then called me downstairs where were discussed what to do about school and who I was going to stay with. Racheal was a possible solution, and Galfore could always commute me every day. But that would lead into late nights that he was not comfortable with. He seriously had no idea what I knew how to handle. Late nights in the worst part of Gotham was normal for me, occasionally kicking someone in the groin was also a very normal thing for me.
Racheal would be ideal to stay with, she is my best of friends. Living with her till school was finished sounded wonderful. However, her family was dealing with her father being a sadistic asshole. We had that in common. The bigger issue was if I stay in West Gotham High, or go to Gotham Academy. The money I had from working barely covered a semester let alone a year. Scholarships were available for "deserving" students, normally they were determined in the beginning of the school year, and this was towards the fall. Students transferred all the time… I hope I still have a shot.
"Kori?" Dick texted.
"Greetings."
"You stopped responding :p."
"Oh yes, Galfore and I were discussing where I should go to school."
"Your very formal when you text, and speak," he sent followed by another text. " And why don't you let me help? My dad helps with a lot of the scholarships at GA."
It sounded wonderful and so simple to have Bruce Wayne, multi billionaire take care of my tuition. But I could not let him pick me over other students though, possibly more deserving ones.
"Thank you, but I do not want him to just let me in. Would it not be fair?"
"I mean he's not going to let you in just because I said so, but he gives away a lot of scholarships to good students in circumstances that would prevent them from a good education." He then sent another one "knowledge is power :D"
I laughed " :) as long as he thinks I deserve it and can earn it, I would be honored to accept." I then winced and sent another text. "I mean I would be honored anyway! It's so generous if him! I just want it to be fair, sorry that may have come off on the wrong way."
"Haha your good, but seriously I'm at the scholarship ceremonies. You're by far the one who deserves it the most, the shit you've had to deal with. I'm glad you got out of there."
"Me too."His text made me blush and feel something warm inside my chest. More than Rachael has or any other person. I was unsure what to do about it, other than just deal with it of course. Honestly, it the least of my worries at this point.
I looked up at Galore who starred at me with a funny expression, "is there something wrong uncle Galfore?" I questioned.
"No, no dear child." He then smiled "those instruments of yours are quite interesting."
I looked at my phone "this?"
"Yes what a mystery." Galfore then laughed "who are you communicating with?"
"Dick, he's telling me Mr. Wayne could approve scholarships for me."
"That's very kind of him, I know you've earned it." He smiled proud, mixed emotions in his eyes. "I wish I was here for you more Kori, you are such a beautiful and smart girl. So much could have been different if I had been there for you. "
I placed a hand upon his shoulder "that is of no importance now, we are together and safe today. That is what matters." We then hugged briefly before he pushed away to wipe tears from his eyes.
"I'm such a big gush." He said wiping tears away while I gave his hand a squeeze. The expression was weird coming from him.
"I spoke with Bruce." Dick's text appeared in my phone after a few minuets, with nervous jitters to follow it. "He would like for you and your uncle to join us for dinner, if that's cool."
"What is Dick saying now?" Galfore wondered out loud.
"He would like for you and me to join him for dinner. "
"Tonight?" I sent back.
Dick responded quickly "if that's okay with you. "
"That would be lovely :)" My heart was beating so fast. Seeing Grayson excited me along with a multitude of emotions I could not muster into words.
"I told him tonight is okay." I said nervously bouncing my knee up and down.
Galfore stood suddenly "I must prepare!" And thumbed his way upstairs.
I stood their smiling like an idiot, as if everything was suddenly going back into place until I remembered I had nothing to wear tonight. Oh X'hal! I mean yes, I had clothes but nothing that would be formal enough for tonight. Practically flying up the stairs I knocked on Galfore's door.
"Yes?" He called.
"I have nothing formal to wear." My voice was subdued waiting for his reply. Fearing that he would be angry with me. I wasn't his child, and I was already asking for something.
The door slammed open and Galfore stood in a white button down shirt, a bow dark purple bow tie with a black suit jacket that was slightly faded. Already his hair was combed back, although it didn't stay.
"You look handsome."
"Thank you Kori, as for your dress we can go to the store now or you can drive? Do you know how to drive?"
"Um..." I intertwined my thumbs. "Very little, it has been awhile."
"You also don not know the area, I forgot." He walked past me down the stairs hollering my name at the door. I bolted to the car. We drove down the road to the nearest thrift store. I was not about to buy a beautiful $100+ dress. Manly because I did not have the money or the heart to have Galfore pay for it. No matter how much he insisted.
The town was small very small, urban and run down. Even though it was barely an hour away from Gotham it was completely different. Farms were everywhere, with your closest neighbors six miles away. A small cafe was next to the thrift store with older men smoking tobacco outside and sipping bland coffee with old creamer. The bank looked sad, like someone had bullied it and it preferred to be alone and cower. Even the market place was sad, although more people were in there shopping for Milk and bread.
"Farm fresh produce!" The sign read adorned with a faded painting of vegetables and fruits.
Internally I groaned. There was no way I would find something nice enough to go the Wayne Mansion.
Into the thrift shop I went to the dresses; all were either black, brown or faded white. Dust and dirt stains, even some pit stains on the fabric.
"Oh X'hal." I sighed looking at Galfore, his expression was unreadable and he walked to the counter while I tried to find a way to make one of the dresses work.
A lady with dyed blue hair and nose rings walked up chomping on gum.
"Greetings." I said smiling.
"Greetings," she said kindly. "I hear your looking for a special dress?"
I looked downward "yes, I am afraid these will not do."
A smirk came across her lips "come with me." The girl led me down to the basement. The scent of mildew attacked my nose, air feeling damp and tickling my throat.
"Down here we keep the better attire," she shrugged," don't ask me why but I think it's cuz the boss doesn't want these stolen or ruined." Behind a black door a couple rows of clothes hung. Immediately you could tell they were better quality; colors more vibrant, fabrics not torn or stained-for the most part.
"I like these dresses," she said pulling out darker dresses of beautiful deep blues and greens, maroon and checkered patterns. "I don't know your style, and you have this very orange completion. Normally I'd think you spent longer in the tanning machine, but Mr. Galfore has it too, so I think you're cool."
I blushed "I think your pretty cool too."
"Thanks, I mean I have deep olive skin, almost a greenish tan and sometimes people make fun of me for it."
"That is most unkind," I never understood why people insisted upon doing the teasing of others."
She gave a whole hearted laugh "girl you have no idea." She then looked sad for a moment. "They call me chink and everything like racial slurs, but I'm only half Asian yah know? Doesn't make it right either way" The girl shook her head.
"People are uneducated, some feel a necessity to be cruel." Of course, I had deeper meaning in saying this. In my life and line of work, I've experienced many cruel people. My mind drifted only a moment to Dick Grayson and his kindness.
I pulled out a dress to hide my blush.
"That one's pretty," the girl said. It was. A deep green dress showing only a little bit of my bare back and cleavage. "Try it on."
I walked over to the bathroom and tried on the green dress, it hugged all my curves and looked beautiful against my skin. Still elegant and classy but sexy as well. Excitement washed over thinking of how Dick might like the dress...and me.
"That one's beautiful," the girl said. Galfore agreed.
We bought the dress, saying goodbye to the kind girl and headed home to change as well as head on the road towards Gotham. The ride felt interminable, as if we were going at the snail's pace. It did not help that all I did was nervously fidget and straighten my dress a million times to rid myself of this anxious feeling.
Not only was I to see Dick after everything with my step-father, his father was going to access me for worthiness of the scholarship. It came to no surprise that Bruce Wayne was a benefactor of Gotham Academy. He was a benefactor of many things such as the orphanage in Gotham. Which by far was one of the best Orphanages in the country, in contribution of Mr. Wayne. Ironic that Gotham one of the worst cities had the best for orphans.
Upon arriving at Wayne Manor, Galfore let out a long whistle. "It has been quite some time since I have seen a house so massive."
"It's beautiful inside, and oh the library has just about every book in the world!" Galfore spared me a curious glance.
"So you have been here many times?"
"Only twice, its beauty is unforgettable." I blushed remembering the first morning with him, how wonderful it felt to meet such an amazing person. I knew by now that I was 'catching the feelings' for Dick Grayson. Thinking about him made me anxious and excited, being with him made me feel warm and whole. Possibly it was not the boyfriend girlfriend feelings, just an extremely deep friendship we were building.
Alfred was waiting by the grand entrance, looking regal as ever. "Good evening Miss. Kori," he bowed then looked to Galfore. "Good evening sir."
"Alfred this is Galfore, my uncle." Alfred smiled whole heartedly.
"A pleasure to meet you Mr. Galfore, please follow me." Alfred said extending his arm as a welcome in to the Wayne Manor. I looked to Galfore who was in awe of its beauty and size. So many gorgeous and detailed paintings with beautiful furnishings and marble floors. Galfore and I both had never been in a place such as this, not even the town hall back in Tamaran.
Alfred led us to the dining hall where I sucked in a breath upon seeing Dick Grayson. Words could not describe how breathing taking he looked in a black tux. His hair absent of the usual gel, instead falling on his clear skin. The contrast of black bringing out his sapphire eyes and glowing pale skin. I think I forgot how to breathe.
Both Bruce and Dick were standing by their chairs, Bruce came up to greet Galfore and myself.
"Pleasure to see you again Kori," he looked to Galfore, "Hello sir."
Galfore extended his huge hand with Bruce's looking small in comparison. "It is an honor to meet you Mr. Wayne, I thank you for considering Kori for your scholarship and inviting us over for dinner."
Bruce Wayne smiled a billion-dollar smile, one that was practiced time and time again, only to become the natural smile for guests and the tabloids. "Thank you, let us take a set."
I looked over to Dick who was beside Bruce with a goofy smile on his face, which only made him more endearing. 'Hi Kori," he said nervously walking to my side. "You look very beautiful." His face was the deep crimson that I was beginning to love again.
"As do you," a blush of my own painting my face.
Dick looked over to Galfore a bit scared of his bulk and nervous to have met someone of my family. "Hello sir." Dick said formally.
"Greetings." Galfore exchanged as we all sat down. Dick was of course a gentleman and slide my seat in for me, scooting to sit next to me. Bruce gave him a look, which I could only interpret as annoyed with his son.
He cleared his throat, "Dick not to be rude, but you're supposed to sit on the opposite side."
Dick of course gave his father a death glare and reluctantly moved to the opposite side of the table. It was clear he was annoyed although he tried to cover it up.
The first course was severed, a beautiful soup in a delicious crème broth. Both Galfore and I were on our best behavior. Sitting straight and hoping we were eating with the right utensil. Why did there need to be two spoons and three forks? I looked over to Dick in panic as more courses were served. A faint smile formed on his rosy lips, picking up the correct fork and taking a bite of his food.
"Now Kori if I am correct you're currently enrolled in West Gotham High." Bruce said sipping some wine.
"Yes, that is correct."
"How are your grades there? I know it is a bit of a rough school to say the least."
"Maybe you should do some fundraising dad," Dick remarked.
"Sounds like a wonderful idea." Bruce said his eyebrows going up. My stomach sank thinking that Bruce would prefer that then having me attended such a prestigious school. After all I was a girl from the worst part of Gotham. The first night I came here I was already trouble. He would not want to have a scholarship in my name. Why on earth was I foolish enough to believe I'd be good enough for Bruce Wayne.
"But now back to Kori, how are your grades there?" Bruce said giving my heart hope again.
"I am in all the advanced classes the school provides, as well as a GPA of 4.5."
"What is your grading scale?" Bruce inquired.
"4.0, but it is possible to get a 4.5 although quite rare."
"So you are very smart." He said with a proud smile.
"Told yah!" Dick said chuckling at his father.
My blush grew deeper, "It is only due to studying and paying attention. A lot of the students do not even go to class, I mainly have an exceptionally high grade due to always being present and extra credit. School is very important to me. I also understand that the level of education at Gotham Academy is a bit higher then West Gotham High. I told myself that if I cannot do well here, than I do not have a chance at Gotham Academy."
"That still makes you smart Kori, and although the education at Gotham Academy can be accelerated, it does not measure everything. Now how about extracurriculars? Are you involved in sports or other activities?"
I froze. Panic spreading across my body. I could not tell him about my step-father. How caring for him was my main activity after school, nor could I tell him about my line of work. It was shameful and degrading. I looked to Dick who was concerned.
"I…I sometimes tutor students in math and science." I looked down at the napkin on my lap, "unfortunately I do not have the time for sports after school."
"Kori manly takes care of her father and the house," Galfore said rushing to defend me, "her mother passed away four years ago, and she was left in his custody. Regretfully of course, I wish she was left to me. But I am not of her blood just a very dear friend of her late father and mother. Jack went downhill after her mother passed, almost immobilizing him to perform any real work. Therefore, Kori took over, cleaning and running the house as best she could. She has been working here and there to help pay for things and to my knowledge and save up for school. As of late her step-father has been cruel, so now she is living with me. However, I do live an hour away, but her life and friends are here. I am hoping that with this scholarship and whatever else I can scramble up, she can go to Gotham Academy. We are currently working on some kind of living situation closer to Gotham, but neither of us mind getting up extra early." He reached his hand to my shoulder, "she is a wonderful, hard working girl. I wish the best for her."
Bruce was silent.
I was in turmoil.
Perhaps he had said too much about the wrong things, perhaps this would sway away Bruce's opinion of me. He could think I am undeserving or not repaired for what GA has. I looked down at my half eaten meal, trying to find some solace in the mashed potatoes or gravy.
"That takes a lot of responsibility for someone of your age Kori." Bruce said with a kind voice. "Not many children can handle losing a parent, then having to replace their role in the family." His smile grew wide. "Not to mention having excellent grades at your school, were the average is a 2.0." Bruce sipped his wine and shared a smile with his son.
"I would be honored to give you a full ride scholarship."
I gasped. I shook my head in shock. A full ride scholarship. That means I made it! Tears pricked my eyes and I went up and hugged Bruce. "Oh thank you, thank you!" He was unprepared for my hug but got up and settled into it.
"You're welcome." He said patting my back. I did not want him to be uncomfortable so I broke the hug, whipping the little tears from my eyes. Dick was beside me smiling wide.
"Congrats Kori, I knew you'd get it." He then hugged me. His arms were so warm and strong around my body I did not want to let go. Both Galfore and Bruce coughed uncomfortably when, Dick and I remained in embrace for a little longer then recommended.
Sitting down I could not stifle the smile on my face or the joy within my heart. I felt like flying it was so wondrous!
"Now Kori there is one problem." He said crushing my euphoria, with no time to prepare for that I let out an eep.
He was quick to cease my worries, "it is not a huge problem, do not fret." He looked to Galfore, "Galfore stated that he lived an hour away, which is most inconvenient for school. I would not want you to stay with your father, so now the question is where do you stay?"
"She could stay here!" Dick jumping at the chance. Bruce shot him a look.
"I would not want to impose on your home!" I said hoping Bruce knew I wished to not overstep. " There is a possibility I could stay with our friend Racheal Roth, but I am not sure."
"You wouldn't be Kori, this place is huge! You could stay no one would mind. You'd have your own room and bathroom. Plus Alfred's chocolate pudding whenever you wanted!" Dick excitement was so charming and made me hopeful for the idea.
"I do not know if that is the best decision," Galfore said crushing both Dick and I's hopes. "Mr. Wayne your home is lovely, and the most beautiful I have ever seen in my years. But I do not know if having Kori live here with you is right. You have done so much already with the scholarship, both Kori and I would not want to overstep." I breathed a sigh of relief at that, scared he would have said something against me staying with a boy.
Bruce stayed silent for a while thinking, "well she would not be over stepping, Dick has a point this house is huge. It would be a bit unethical for you to drive so long to school or return to your step-father." Bruce took another sip of wine, loving the anticipation he was making for me and probably Dick as well. "I think it is perfectly fine if you stay here. And, no before you ask. You would not be overstepping." Bruce laughed, and Dick smiled happily while I could not thank him enough.
"There are no words to convey how grateful I am sir."
"Just keep up to good grades and promise to use my library." He chuckled.
"Of course! I will not let you down." I said with so much joy and happiness, it was as if I had woken from the best kind of dream, only to learn it was actually reality.
"If you would not mind Galfore I would love to speak with you privately before we part for the night."
"Of course," Galfore said while both Dick and I walked out of the room, I waved goodbye and thanked him again before Alfred closed the dining room door, and left Dick and I to sit on a couch in the grand living room.
He took my hand and sat close to me, I felt his warmth at the proximity "I'm so happy you're going to stay with us."
"I am too." I said looking into his eyes, heat traveling to my cheeks and I looked down to hide. Dick's hand held my face, bringing me back to look at him.
"You're so beautiful when you blush." He whispered, breath hot on my face. Lips tantalizing and teasing. My heart flipped and bound, eyelids closing slowly his forehead resting on mine.
"I want to kiss you." He said, my heart screamed of joy and I tilted my head more to his, my fingers running along his muscular chest and stopping at his face. His thumb doing little rhythmic circles on my cheek.
"I want to kiss you too." With that he held pulled me on his lap, making us closer. All I wanted was him, all I thought about was him.
"Can you too please get a room." Jason said reeking of cigarette's and sweat. Dick's demeanor instantly changed.
"Jase you have the worst timing," he said annoyed.
"Just performing my brotherly duties. Oh hi dad." He said looking straight. Both Dick and I bolted up walking to the hall to see Galfore and Bruce. My heart sunk, this night would have been perfect if we kissed.
"Hello Jason," Bruce said sternly." Where were you tonight?"
"Riding around," he then took of his jacket coolly tossing it over his shoulder.
"My office right now." Bruce said with authority while Jason rolled his eyes and gave a two finger solute.
Alfred held the door open wishing us goodnight, Bruce shook my hand and Galfore's. "I'll hope to see you soon."
"Goodnight Mr. Wayne," I then looked over to Dick, blushing from our embrace only moments before. "Goodnight Richard." From saying his full name he smiled brighter.
"Goodnight Kori, it was nice meeting you Galfore."
Both Galfore and I walked to his worn down truck, hopes at their heights as we drove back home.
My phone buzzed in my pocket.
Dick Grayson: "I still want to kiss you."
I was smiling from cheek to cheek, and at that moment there was no denying. I was falling for Dick Grayson.