Summary: A collaborated mission leads to an unexpected twist of events.
Note: And for the finale. Happy Mother's Day to Kory aka the one and only Starfire! Enjoy!
Never Have I Ever
It was all a blur.
Dick couldn't remember how or when he'd gotten to the Watch Tower. Hell, he couldn't remember how the night had started. All he could focus on was his heart pounding as it hammered through his chest anxiously, the sweat on his palms and the ringing in his ear. A metallic taste swept through his mouth from biting his tongue so hard without realizing it.
There was a frenzy in the infirmary, splotches of color swiftly passing his line of vision as he stood frozen in front of the window. He could barely see her lying there so still. Bloodied and fragile, a sight rarely seen and unfit for a queen like her but one that would forever be ingrained in his head.
Dick could faintly hear someone calling his name. His mind was so far gone he may as well be floating in the vacuum of space. But all it took was a tug on his shoulder to bring him back to the horrible reality he so desperately wanted to escape.
"Dick, you should sit down. She's in good hands now."
He didn't know who said that out of the three friends that stood behind him, watching with sadness on their faces, for not only one broken friend but two. The difference with him was that his physical being was still intact.
They tugged his shoulder again, but this time he jerked away and stood closer to the small glass separating him from her, his eyes transfixed on the woman who was just in his hands only minutes ago. Her blood was still smeared across his suit, reminding him of how lifeless she had felt in his arms.
It felt cruel for it to have taken so long for them to be reunited only to be torn apart again within an inch of life. It didn't feel real.
"Dick…" This time he recognized the voice to be Raven. He knew better than to shrug her off when she practically dragged him away from the window to be seated in the waiting room. She stood before him, kneeling to get his full attention. "You have to let them do their thing. She'll come out of this. They both will."
He wanted to believe that, but if Raven could not heal her properly as she desperately tried during the ride to the Watch Tower, he was skeptical of what Diana, Clark, and J'onn could do. They didn't know her anatomy like they did. Not to mention the baby…
Victor took the seat beside him. "I gave them every information I have about her physical being. I'm sure they'll figure something out for her and the baby. We have to believe they will be okay."
Okay? Was that all they would be? After that powerful blast with her and her baby's life on the line, would everything be okay after all of it? Many what-ifs circled his brain, and he tried not to think of the dark path his thoughts wanted to go.
She wouldn't have been there if it wasn't for him asking for her help. Dick blamed himself for putting her and the baby in harm's way. He should've done a better job of investigating the supplies at the warehouse. He should've been able to handle this on his own. He should've—
"No, no, no. Don't do that. Don't go blaming yourself. I can see it written all over your face." Donna was always good at reading his emotions. Though never as good as Raven, nonetheless, without power. She squeezed his bloodied, gloved hand, albeit a little too hard. He knew she did it to get him back on the ground. It worked, if only briefly.
Dick surveyed his friends—Donna, Victor, and Raven—silently thanking them for their never-ending support. When he asked for assistance with investigating the strange shipments imported between Büdhaven and Gotham, they never batted an eye to lend a hand. And now, they didn't take their eyes off him as he silently stewed in regret and fear.
Even Wally and Garfield had tried to come to the Watch Tower after hearing about the incident, but he was too numb to coordinate their travel. Victor eventually told them it was better to stay where they were and that he would provide updates.
"Maybe you should get cleaned up. Take a few moments to catch your breath," Raven suggested.
"We'll keep a close eye on her. Promise," Victor added.
Dick looked to the window again. From his position, he couldn't see anything. The thought of leaving her made him feel worse. Yeah, he was no help in his current state, but being near made him feel like he hadn't abandoned her—again.
Dick opened his mouth to protest, but Donna was quick to interject. "It wasn't a suggestion. When Kory gets better, she won't be happy to see you like this. Do it for her."
Donna certainly knew what to say to get him to move. With a heavy sigh, Dick mustered the energy to get up, and he let Donna lead him out of view of the infirmary. As the distance stretched, his nervousness grew. What if something happened while he was away?
"My old room is just down the hall. You can rifle through a few unisex shirts, but I'll have to steal a pair of pants from the laundry. Or a better outfit." She stopped before her old door and turned to him, her blue eyes piercing his mask. "I know this is hard. It is for all of us. Truthfully, I'm scared. But for Kory and Jake, I can't let that fear in, and neither should you."
She grabbed him in a tight squeeze, catching him off guard. Dick was slow to return it. Shortly after releasing him, she opened the door and led him in.
Donna nodded to the dresser against the right wall. "You can look through there if you want. I'll head to the laundry in the meantime. You're welcome to use the shower."
She gave him one last concerning look before closing the door behind her, leaving him with his spiraling thoughts. He felt paralyzed, almost unsure of what to do with himself when he wasn't pacing in front of the infirmary window endlessly. He sat on the edge of the bed, his back to the dresser and the bathroom, waiting for anything to remind him this wasn't real. That this was all some nightmare. Maybe he was the one in the hospital bed fighting for his life, and Kory and Jake were okay.
Honestly, it was selfish how he was acting. As the former leader, he discouraged emotions from the team when they were together in their younger years. A weakness, he used to call it. That changed after he fell in love with Kory. Since she's been in his life, he couldn't remember the last time he thought like that. The team was hurting, too. But even they took his advice when he couldn't.
Dick looked up, facing himself in the mirror hanging opposite the bed that he hadn't noticed before. He looked like shit. It was the first time he'd seen himself since they arrived at the Watch Tower. It was unfair how he didn't have a scratch on him. The blood all over his suit was all from Kory. Weirdly, he felt guilty for even thinking of removing it. The blood, though a reminder of what happened, was also the only thing that made him feel close to her.
His mind finally drifted to the events leading up to the Watch Tower. The memories left a bad taste in his mouth. He remembered that dreadful call from Raven after the blast rocked the city. He remembered his legs getting weak and rushing to the scene with trembling hands. Raven had gotten blasted too, but she was able to shield herself. It left her with very little energy to heal Kory, however. The trail of blood as Raven carried Kory away from the burning warehouse was an image he'd never forget. The blood pooled from her legs as they laid her down on the concrete.
He had never seen Raven cry before, but tears streaked down her face as she desperately tried to keep Kory breathing. Dick remembered calling out to Kory, hoping she was conscious enough to say something, even stir, but she was so still. He had her in his arms in no time as they waited for Victor to secure a ship to take them to the Watch Tower. It was the only place they knew that was equipped to handle the extent of her injuries, not to mention the baby.
At some point, a tear had slipped from under his mask as he whispered to her that he'd do everything possible to ensure she and Jake were okay. That he'd never leave her side. The kiss he planted on her bloodied forehead sealed that promise.
On the way to the Watch Tower, Victor called Julius and his team to update them on what happened. Dick couldn't handle that part. He was sure Julius blamed him.
He'd be right to.
Protocols didn't permit civilians from entering the Watch Tower, so despite Julius begging and getting Batman involved, he couldn't be there. It was hard to imagine what it was like for Julius to wait by the phone to hear if his girl and baby made it.
It was all too much.
"Dick?" He jolted from his trance to see Donna at the door. He hadn't heard her come back in. She held up the clothes she found in her hand. "I found some clothes for you. I'll leave them on the bed. If you want, I can take your suit after—"
"No," Dick said, his voice scratchy and weak. "That's okay. I'll… I'll take it to the laundry myself."
Donna nodded but seemed unsure. "Okay. I'll leave you to it then."
"Donna?"
Donna stopped just short of closing the door completely. "Yeah?"
"I don't care what state I'm in. If anything happens to her—"
"I know. I'll get you; I promise." With that, she closed the door behind her.
A shower wasn't something he wanted to do, considering the situation, but he figured he might as well. If it would help with the intrusive dark thoughts and memories crippling him, he'd take it. He didn't plan to be long in the shower. He wanted to be out as soon as possible in case there were updates.
When Diana and J'onn had practically pried Kory from his arms, Clark had mentioned scanning her body. Though he was silent about what he saw despite Dick letting his emotions get out of control and cursing at his idol for an answer, Clark stated it might be some time before they could provide appropriate updates. Since then, time felt like it was crawling by. He wasn't even sure if an hour had passed since they arrived.
As he cleaned up in the shower, his mind ran through every possible scenario. Staying positive, though imperative, felt useless given her state. He couldn't help but think the worse, especially as he watched the blood—her blood—pool around his feet and swirl down the drain.
The possibility was real. He could lose her for good this time. And it'd be his fault all over again.
He could've prevented all of this. He could've tapered his desperation to see her again. He didn't truly need her help. Maybe the others, but she could've stayed cozy in her city. He should've never convinced her to help him.
Selfish. Selfish. Selfish.
He lightly banged his head on the wall several times as he repeated those words. The water ran alongside his outcry as he felt his heart squeeze.
He failed her.
Dick hurried to dress once he left the shower. Donna had brought over a set of blue sweats, so he didn't have to search for clothes in her dresser. Before donning back on his mask, Dick took one last look at himself, noting the bags under his eyes from the lack of sleep days prior to his investigation. His fatigue and sorrow didn't help his features, not that he cared. Though everyone in the infirmary already knew his identity, the mask was the perfect cover for him in times like this. He may show his emotions physically, but at least he could hide the window to his soul.
He slapped his mask back on and picked up his bloodied suit. As he was about to head out of the room to the laundry, his phone started to ring. He forgot he even had it. At some point during the ride to the Watch Tower, his earpiece and handheld communicator had gotten lost. Frankly, he didn't care where it went as long as he was there.
Dick blindly rummaged through a small compartment in his boot (sometimes he really missed having a belt) until he felt the vibration. Looking at the screen, he almost let it ring out but decided last minute it wouldn't be wise.
"Dick! I've been trying to contact you since you reached the base. Is everything okay?" Barbara's voice sounded uncertain, likely unsure of what to expect.
He paused momentarily, his end of call silent as he wondered what to relay. With a sigh, he answered meekly, "No. I don't know. We're still waiting to hear something."
"Oh," was all she could reply.
Dick ran a hand through his damp hair, wanting to fill the dead air between them. Awkwardly, he asked, "How's Julius?"
Barbara had been in Gotham helping Bruce find the supplier for those shipments when it all occurred. Julius was closer to them than to Bludhaven. At some point, Dick heard Victor mention Julius had shown up in Gotham looking for Bruce to convince him to let him go to the Watch Tower. Bruce probably found him first in the streets with his ability to have eyes everywhere.
"Not good, considering the circumstance. He's angry at everything and everyone right now. Bruce is letting him cool down in the Batcave. Understandably, he's worried and scared."
Dick felt for him, honestly. But having Julius at the Watch Tower would've added an extra layer of stress for him and the team. It was best he was in the hands of Bruce. "I can imagine."
It sounded like Barbara had closed a door. "And you? You seem… tired." It wasn't the word she wanted to use; he could tell. But he wasn't sure if she was scared to say what was on her mind.
"I am," Dick replied carefully. "I want this to be over with. I want to know they're okay."
"They will be. Kory is a fighter and strong. I'm sure her baby is, too."
"I hope so."
"I hope you're not blaming yourself," Barbara's voice took an edge.
His lack of response answered that for her.
"Dick—"
"Spare me the lecture, Babs. Please. Regardless of whether I blame myself, arguing about it won't change anything."
"You should take your own advice sometimes."
He should. He'd do better if he did, but he didn't voice that out loud.
"I love hard, and I blame myself harder," Dick pointed out. It was a lackluster attempt at a joke, but it fell flat if the silence that followed was any indication.
"Why?" Barbara finally asked, her tone serious.
"Why, what?"
"Why are you putting this all on your shoulders? She made the choice to help you. You didn't force her."
"But she's my responsibility. As a former team member, she always will be." It was a safe answer, but he knew it wouldn't be enough for Barbara.
"Is that all it is?"
Dick could've lied. A simple way to get her to stop asking questions. But Barbara wasn't stupid. She knew something was brewing within him. Confliction or confusion, maybe both. It was the root of all their premature marital problems lately. How distant he seemed. How much he wanted to stay out of the apartment. The late nights he'd pretend to be patrolling late until morning when he really was debating the travel just to see her face.
The lying got him here. So instead, Dick simply replied, "No."
He could hear her breathing on the other end of the line, then opening her mouth and closing it again. A minute passed, and she sucked in a breath before she started, "Are you still…?" She stopped herself, and he imagined she shook her head before continuing. "Never mind. This isn't the time. Keep me posted about Kory, would you? I'll keep Julius in the loop. I-I love you."
The line went dead, and Dick was stuck there with the phone still at his ear, wondering what was in store for him after all this was over. For now, however, his focus was central to one person, and she needed him.
Pocketing his phone, Dick ventured to the laundry room one level down. He went in a circle to avoid the infirmary area. If he passed by, he'd be tempted to stay, and as much as Dick fought it before, he did need the mental break.
During his early days as a bright-eyed Robin, he'd been fascinated by the base and all it represented at the time. As a kid, everything seemed so grand in the scheme of it all. As he grew older and started to follow his own path, his eyes lost their stars when it came to the place, and he began to despise it came to be, rooted in strictness and control. As time passed, Dick was reluctant to visit unless his attendance was mandatory. The uncompromising attitude of everyone who came and stayed here made him appreciate the easiness he built with his former team.
They were his family.
The laundry was lined with several washers and dryers against the wall. A few machines were on and tumbling clothes. Dick threw his suit in and started the washing machine. He stood back to watch the cycle for a few minutes, almost hypnotized by the predictable flow.
"I always thought you dry-cleaned your suits."
Dick turned to find Raven at the door. She approached slowly, then leaned against the machine beside him with crossed arms. He turned back to the cycle, getting lost again in the never-ending rotation of his wet suit.
"That's Batman's suits. I made sure mine could handle a rough cycle."
Raven nodded. "Smart."
"Any updates?"
Raven shook her head. "Still waiting. Donna had to leave briefly, but she said she'll be back. I think Wonder Woman asked her for a favor."
"What kind of favor? Does it have something to do with Kory?"
Raven shrugged. "I don't know. I was looking for you when Vic messaged me about it."
Dick turned his head to her. "Why are you looking for me? I'm fine."
"You don't have to pretend around me, Dick. Around any of us. This isn't an 'I'm fine' moment for anyone."
"I just need a moment to think."
"Don't you think that's already doing enough damage? We can't all beat up on ourselves. We all wish we could've done more."
He felt like a terrible friend. He could only imagine how Raven felt, unable to heal Kory the way she wanted. How powerless she must've felt.
Dick didn't answer.
"What's really going on with you, Dick? I'm sensing there's more to this than Kory being hurt. It's deeper than what happened today."
Still, he was mute. He crossed one foot over the other, his eyes never leaving the cycle that was violently thrashing his uniform.
Raven hesitantly placed a hand on his shoulder, likely expecting him to shrug her off. "You can talk to me, Dick."
"I know," he finally said.
She waited patiently as silence befell them. She let him take his time, knowing how hard it was to share his thoughts and feelings with his friends. And though he improved with his openness to the team over the years, getting him to admit anything about his personal life was always a struggle.
It would've been easy to access his thoughts and all the dark recesses of his mind, but Raven respected his space and tended not to invade his most sacred parts.
"I'm scared," Dick said quietly. With the machine whirling, he wondered if she could hear him.
"Of what?" Raven asked, her voice delicate.
Dick bit his bottom lip in concentration, his eyes glossed over like he wasn't even there mentally. He was thankful to be hiding behind his mask. "I'm scared I'll be the reason Kory loses the baby. Again."
Raven's eyes widened a fraction, but she didn't respond, letting him gather the nerve to continue.
"I'm scared I've ruined her life for the last time. I'm scared I'll lose her again. I can't lose her, Raven. I just got her back in my life."
Dick slid down to the ground, defeated. Raven followed suit, sitting beside him with her legs outstretched to match his position. "You won't lose her, Dick."
"How do you know that? I lost her once, Raven. I can never take that back. Even if she wakes… I still won't have her."
"What happened between you two? You've been different since she came back into your life. Whatever it is, it's destroying you, Dick. You need to talk to someone."
"I can't," Dick replied just above a whisper.
"You can. You have us. You have me. I know I didn't respond to you in the best way at the wedding. But this sadness, I didn't imagine it. It's there, and it's growing."
Dick dragged a hand down his face, a heavy sigh emitting from his lips. A moment passed where the only thing penetrating their space was the rattling of the washer as it started its spin cycle. Raven had always been respectful of Dick's space and his relationships. He was grateful for that. But she was sometimes a good voice of reason when he needed it.
He felt lost. Silly, even, that he couldn't seem to get over this hump in his life. But it was so much more than that. It was an incessant reminder of his failures. Of his mistakes repeatedly being thrown back at his face. It was all-consuming.
There was one thing he looked forward to when they were together, a future and a family. And he destroyed them both. He deserved this turmoil, if nothing more.
"I drove her away because I couldn't handle the idea of sharing her with her people," Dick admitted, finally able to come to terms with what he was scared to voice for so long. Raven dared not say a word, fearing he might've lost his nerve to continue. But he continued, "Six months before we split and after she was crowned queen on Tamaran, she came back to Earth and revealed she was pregnant."
Though focused on the machine, his eyes were looking back five years in his life, his memories playing in front of him like a movie.
"I can't describe how I felt then, but for once, I saw a future outside of being a hero. I never saw myself becoming a dad, but at that moment, I wanted nothing more as long as I had Kory. I didn't have the team anymore, so I felt like I was finally free to be who I wanted to be. And I wanted that family life with her.
"But early on, we struggled because of her obligations. She wanted to maintain her status on Tamaran until she found a suitable replacement, but it meant she'd be away for a while, and I couldn't handle that. Eventually, we agreed that she'd share her time between Earth and Tamaran until it was permanently settled. It worked for a little, but it soon became a hassle."
Dick picked off invisible lint from his clothes, the frustration he felt at the time still palpable in his memories.
"I pressured her so much. Too much. I was always angry and refused to see her point of view. She tried to make me happy. She tried meeting her duties. But it was falling apart. I was selfish and didn't support her like I should have.
"One day, we had a massive argument, and in a fit, she left for Tamaran in tears. She blocked all communication with me. It wasn't until a few days later she came back. I should've been happy that she even put up with me in the first place. I was ungrateful and sulking."
"What did you do?" Raven asked delicately.
"I yelled at her. I said some pretty nasty things to her, then gave her the cold shoulder. She eventually got fed up and took off again."
Dick balled his hands into fists, remembering how upset she was and how childish he had been. God, he'd do anything to take it all back.
He struggled to say the next part, "It was only a week she was gone that time. I didn't talk to her. I missed her terribly, but my pride wouldn't let me contact her. Then out of the blue, I got pinged by her communicator. But it wasn't her on the line; it was one of her advisors on Tamaran. They told me she had collapsed out of exhaustion. It wasn't until later that they told me she lost the baby."
Raven's mouth was agape, her eyes solemn. She remained mum in shock. Being across the country at the time, neither she or the team were privy to the details of their relationship or their problems. One minute they were together, and in the next, they weren't.
"I've never felt so numb as I did then. We never talked about it. Never officially called it off, really. She returned when she got better to get her stuff while I was out of the apartment, and that was it. I couldn't talk to her. I couldn't call, not because she shut me out, but because I was ashamed of what I did to her.
"When I heard she came back after Tamaran got destroyed a year later, I contemplated reaching out and explaining my side or begging for forgiveness. Both, even. But I chickened out. I couldn't face the situation. My dreams came crashing down, and I had no one to blame but myself. I felt like a monster. I still do."
Raven squeezed his shoulder. "You're not a monster, Dick."
Dick shook his head. "I don't deserve her kindness now. I never will."
"It's in her nature. Kory's a forgiving person. She loves and cares for people deeply. She couldn't hate anyone if she tried, especially you."
"She couldn't get away from me fast enough."
"She needed time. As did you."
"Time left me without her and pushed her into someone else's arms." The words felt like glass coming from his mouth. Unforgiving and insecure.
Raven regarded him for a moment, no look of malice or contempt. Instead, she viewed her friend with newfound understanding. His demeanor at the wedding, that void that surrounded his heart; she understood it all now.
"You still love her." Not a question but a fact.
Dick was quiet, then replied, "I don't think I can ever stop."
"Don't you think she blames herself, too?" Raven suggested.
He hadn't thought of that. It was outrageous she would. "Why would she? She didn't do anything wrong."
Raven shrugged. "Kory probably feels like she failed you. If I know her enough, maybe that's why she ran. Maybe she felt like you blamed her and couldn't deal with that."
"I could never blame her! She did nothing but try to please me, and I threw that back in her face. I wish I could turn back the hands of time and explain it all to her. To make her see what I see."
And to tell her how much she meant to him and always will.
"You can when she's better."
The sound of Raven's communicator going off interrupted their moment. Raven looked at him, her eyes enlarged. "They have an update on Kory. Victor says to come now."
Dick needed no further instruction. They scrambled to their feet, Dick almost tripping over himself in a rush. A new pile of nerves shook him as his mind ran through the worse possible scenarios, drowning his attempts to stay positive.
Before leaving the laundry area, Raven turned to Dick, hugging him tightly. He settled into it, a weight leaving his shoulders. It wasn't as awkward as Donna's hug, but the support was there, nonetheless. If anyone could get him to bare his soul, it was Raven. He was okay with that. "You have to let the blame go, Dick. For Kory's sake and yours. You can't fill that hole in your chest without letting it go first."
She released him and stalked ahead. He followed purposefully as they made their way back to the infirmary. Diana stood alongside Clark, both opposing figures, their expressions giving nothing away. Dick couldn't tell if they were about to present good or bad news, making him even more tense. Victor was also there, worry marring his countenance.
"How is she?" Dick asked in earnest.
Diana started, "She lost a lot of blood. So much so, we were unsure how this would end."
Dick almost fell to his knees. Raven grabbed his arm to keep him steady.
Before he could fire off his questions, Diana continued, "But, despite that, we were able to stop the bleeding, and she is stable."
Clark chimed in. "But she's not exactly in the clear. Her body is not like that of humans, or even mine for that matter. Her blood loss could affect her in ways we can't predict. Under human standards, she likely wouldn't have made the trip here. But since we've operated on her, she's already started to heal, albeit rather slowly. Her recovery will be a long one based on the data we have."
A whirlwind of emotions passed through the group. For Dick, he couldn't decide if he was going or coming. On the one hand, he was relieved that she was okay. But he worried about her recovery and—
"What about the baby?" Dick asked. The relieved moment passed, and a new string of fears set in for them. Raven squeezed his arm as they waited in anticipation of their answer. Still, the Justice League founders' expressions held no emotion.
It was Clark that spoke next. "I had a tough time reading his heart rate at first. As we discovered, Starfire had somehow managed to transfer energy to him, likely during the blast, which would explain why she took such a beating and why her recovery will be slow."
Diana took it from there. "She did what she could to protect him. She saved his life. Her ability to do such a thing is incredible. But to stop her from depleting her energy, we were forced to deliver him a little early."
Dick took in a sharp breath. Victor stepped forward, his eyes wide. "But he is okay?"
Diana nodded. "He will be okay. For now, at least. This is the first human/Tamaranean birth we know of, so things could change. But J'onn will watch him closely in another room while we monitor Starfire. It might be some time before we can let you see him."
Dick released the breath he held. Though still anxious, Dick asked. "Can we see her at least?"
Clark turned to him, the first infliction of emotion passing through his features. Dick recognized it as sympathy. "It's best you let her rest for the time being. She hasn't come to yet, and we're not quite sure when she will. She may need time to build back some energy and generate new blood. We gave her what we could for any pain she may be feeling, though we don't know how it could affect her long-term since her anatomy is still a slight mystery to us, even with the information Cyborg sent us. We had to make some educated guesses with the similarities we know of."
"I had Donna search through the Xotika galaxy to find a medicinal extract Amazonians are familiar with in hopes it can assist with Starfire's recovery," Diana added.
"I can get a remote monitor working so we can all help keep an eye on her and the baby while we rest. It might help since I'm sure you all are busy otherwise," Victor offered. It was a roundabout way to see her and the baby, but Dick was glad Victor was thinking more clearly than he was.
Diana nodded. "I can show you what we have and let you set it up."
Victor followed her into the room, disappearing behind the door Dick wanted so badly to be. He turned his attention to Clark, who stood idle. "What do we do now? Can we help? There must be something we can do."
Clark eyed him in understanding, knowing just how helpless Dick might feel. "For now, we wait. Give her a few hours at the most. You don't want to see her as she is, Dick. Give her some time. Maybe then, she'll be awake at the very least. I'll let you both know when you can see her." Clark turned as if to head back into the room, then stopped, saying, "The first name she uttered before fully losing consciousness was yours. She'll be expecting you when she's awake."
And then, there were two.
Dick felt useless at that moment, not having a role, and still impatient to see Kory. The thought of her looking for him amid pain brought conflict to his heart. Did she call his name for culpability or for guidance? Was she mad at him, or did she find comfort in knowing he was there and wouldn't leave her side like he promised? Did she want him there as desperately as he wanted to be in the room?
Many questions swam through his head. He was comforted that Jake would be okay and he'd have good news to report to Julius. Though, it may only rile him further knowing that his kid was officially in the world, and he wasn't there to see or touch him. Furthermore, during this entire experience, Julius was helpless to save his family.
Dick felt sorry for him. But a nasty, selfish part of him was relieved that he could be the first to see her when she did awake, not Julius. That out of everyone in her life, he was the first one she called for. It was that thought that kept him grounded.
At some point, Raven had decided to find a room to rest and gather back her energy while they waited. They had all collectively decided to stay on the base without much discussion. That thought brought a smile to his face. They never needed to speak what was understood. They were a family, and they stuck through it in tough times.
It would be another two hours before his restlessness led him to the cafeteria. His churning stomach had decided it was time to replenish his energy while he aimlessly wandered the base. The cafeteria was self-serve in a buffet-style setting though there wasn't any fanciness to it. A few unfamiliar faces were there, staring at him as he meandered through the aisles, picking up a few things for him and Kory when she awoke. Dick knew from experience how hungry and thirsty someone could be after a long bout of unconsciousness. Though, he wondered if she would even be allowed to eat after her ordeal. Typically, it was advised not to eat too soon after surgery or delivery.
Nevertheless, Dick bypassed all the prying eyes and sat at one of the tables in solitude, surprising himself by scarfing down the few pieces of rolls he picked up. The more he thought, the hungrier he felt. It was almost like he was eating his thoughts away. That was until the intrusive thoughts crept in.
She's a mom now.
He stopped chewing as the words passed his thoughts. He put down his half-eaten roll, sitting back in his chair and imagining Kory and her family laughing and enjoying a life he wasn't a part of in that way anymore. A reality he despised, but still, he longed for her.
She has a complete family now.
He officially lost his will to eat. For a few moments, the words skirted through his mind as he stared off into the distance, facing the cafeteria entrance, but really, his mind was back in the waiting room outside the infirmary doors, looking in.
He needed to see her.
But first, he shot Babs an update on what was happening, vaguely mentioning Kory was in recovery but that no other information had come by. He knew she'd do her best to relay the information to Julius.
Picking up what he gathered for Kory, he tossed the rest of his food and headed to the waiting area.
There, Victor stood as Dick approached. "They just moved her."
"Where?"
Victor nodded down the hall. "To one of the other rooms down there. The baby is still here. Raven is in there with him now."
Raven being with him was good. He hoped she healed enough to help Jake in any way he needed.
Dick hesitated but asked, "H-How is she? How does she look?"
Victor's lips thinned, "She's alive. Battered but alive. I've got a remote monitor on her to keep track of her while we're out of the room." Victor tapped his arm to show Dick her vitals.
"Can I see her?"
Victor sighed. "We're advised to let her rest, but Wonder Woman and Superman just left. J'onn is coming back later while Raven does her thing with the baby. I can get you in the room, but only for a little bit."
Dick nodded, his heart beating anxiously. Victor eyed him, knowing that little time with her wouldn't be enough for Dick but led him to the room anyway.
It was only a few doors past where they were. The entire area comprised of recovery rooms for big missions across galaxies. He'd only ever been around for one mission that called for all the rooms to be occupied. He wasn't squeamish around blood or sickness, but the infirmary was his least favorite place.
"Those for Kory?" Victor asked, pointing to the container of food in his hands.
"Yeah, for when she wakes. Whenever that is."
They stopped outside her door while Victor typed a code into the pad to unlock it.
"They said to let her rest but gave you the code."
Victor scuffed. "They didn't give it to me. It's as if I have all the mechanics in my arm to decode whatever I want."
"Cap the sarcasm."
"I'd tell you to cap your worry, but I know that won't help."
Dick smiled weakly. He looked forward to the now unlocked room and took in a breath. "I don't know what to expect."
Victor placed a hand on his shoulder. "Expect nothing but a friend in need of support. When you're done, I'll be with Raven and the baby. You should see him after you're done."
Dick nodded absently, "Sure." It would be a while before he was ready to face the baby, both out of guilt and because of the reminder already plaguing him of Kory's new life. He feared reality would rear its ugly head if he was in that room. Victor accepted his answer, however, and left him there shortly before the heavy steel door opened for him.
The room was dimly lit outside of a bright glow behind the draw curtains. A steady tick of the clock was the only noise that penetrated the quietness, matching his footfalls as he slowly approached the curtains. Tentatively, Dick pulled them back, the solar lights and bed coming into view. He shielded his eyes from the powerful light emitting from the bedside lamps hanging over the bed. Being shrouded in darkness in the vastness of space for so long made his eyes sensitive to the lights. He could see the imprint of her body on the bed. She wasn't fully in his view until he was at her side. He set the food on the table against the wall as he pivoted closer.
Dick took in a sharp breath as he gazed upon his fallen Star. From what her hospital gown didn't cover, her legs, arms, hands, and neck were covered in bruises and gashes. He wondered what happened to the jacket he gave her that got damaged in the blast. Her skin was discolored as it desperately tried to heal itself. Her face was much the same, her cheek swollen, her bottom lip split, and a black ring around her right eye. The only untouched thing seemed to be her hair, which he thought was strange but was glad it hadn't been damaged. Perhaps her hair was tolerant to the heat since her hair often turned to fire in battle.
His hand touched her skin, gliding over the cuts on her hand before reaching her right cheek where he held it, tenderly taking it all in.
"I'm so sorry, Kory. I'm so sorry you had to go through this."
Dick sat beside the bed, ripping off and pocketing his mask, his hand returning to hers. He interlocked their fingers, her limpness weighing heavy on his conscious. His heart squeezed at the thought that he'd never get to do this again whenever she woke.
This was the only moment he'd ever have to take care of her ever again. Once this charade was over and Kory was normal again, she would start her journey as a mom and family with Julius. No longer could they have stolen moments. No longer could he allow himself to fantasize about a life he ruined before it ever began. It wouldn't be fair to her.
Not like it ever was.
Dick tried his best to respect her boundaries and relationship, but he constantly teetered on acting out his selfishness. He always needed one more dose of her to fulfill a thirst he couldn't quench. It never ended well for him.
"I hope you don't regret your time with me," he said quietly. "I wouldn't blame you if you did, but I hope you don't."
She didn't so much as stir as he continued to talk to her sleeping form.
"I wish I could leave you alone, Kory. I do. I wish I could move on like you did. Live my life the way I pretend I can. I don't think you understand what you did to me or the giant imprint you've left in my life."
Dick caressed the cut on her hand with his thumb. "I've always admired you for how free you are despite what you've been through. You of all people should be bitter with what life has dealt you early on. But you're like this bright spot in the middle of a gloomy day. Your smile is radiant. Your spirit is infectious. I'm jealous that you make it look so easy."
He chuckled to himself as he stared at their intertwined fingers. "I never thought I could trust someone like you. Being around Bruce will have you growing up to think anyone not of this world is suspicious. But all that went out the window the moment I laid eyes on you. I knew you were special then, like I know it now.
"You gave me something I never thought I'd have—love. I didn't think it was for me. I never pictured my life with one person or settling down, as bad as that sounds. A family was never on my mind. But you gave that to me, or you tried to, and I trampled on that opportunity."
Dick let out a shuddered breath. "I regret so much; it's eating me alive. I know we said what we needed to say at the wedding, but… there's still so much unresolved. At least, for me. I don't know where to start.
"I took you for granted. I took your love for granted. I should've supported you when you needed it most. I should've been a better friend. A better confidant. A better partner. I failed you. Even now, I'm still failing you because I can't help but be blinded by my jealousy of Julius and the life he built with you or my selfishness for trying to keep you near me. You should always come first. I'm sorry I always get that wrong."
Dick toyed with her ring finger, imagining a time he'd slip a ring on it. He always wondered if her energy would melt it away. Now, after Jake's birth, he wondered if Julius would marry her. Perhaps she refused him before. Dick had coaxed the idea to her several times over the years of their relationship, but she always implied it wasn't of interest to her. He wondered how she felt about it now that her life was coming together in ways she likely never imagined.
Would she have said yes to marriage if he was the one she was with now?
His mind wandered, and eventually, the ticking lulled his body into ease, prompting him to lean forward and rest his head alongside her, their hands still connected. His body felt heavy, his eyes bowing close, but his tongue still seeking to have a final word.
Sleepily, Dick mumbled, "I got a lot of things wrong, Kory. But never have I ever loved someone like I love you. That's the only thing that feels right anymore." Within minutes, he nodded off.
He must've underestimated how tired he was because the next time he opened his eyes, another two hours had passed on the analog clock above the bed.
"Shit," Dick muttered. His hand was still connected with Kory's as he leaned off the bed, though it had begun to twitch. He wondered if that was what woke him up.
"Kory?" Her entire body began to fidget as if fighting off a bad dream. Her head started to move from side to side, and her grip tightened around his hand, forcing him to unlace their fingers.
Dick pushed back his chair and hovered over her, caressing her face. "Kory?"
She whimpered and violently thrashed, almost knocking him in the face. He was steadfast in holding her shoulders as it progressively worsened. "Kory!" Dick exclaimed louder this time, hoping she could hear him. But she continued fighting in her sleep, and he feared she would injure herself worse than she already was.
The sound of the door opening and metal feet nearing gathered his attention. The curtain drew back to reveal Victor, his face filled with concern as his arm beeped in alert. He had a syringe filled with a clear liquid in his hand.
Dick felt guilty, thinking he may have set her off. "She just started to do this. I don't know what's happening."
"Could be a reaction, or she could be dreaming in her unconscious state. Maybe she's reliving the blast in her mind. Move aside, I think I can help. Donna just came back with this. It's supposed to help her heal. Hopefully, it can calm her, too."
Dick stepped away from his friend, watching Victor take her left arm and insert the liquid. Almost immediately, she began to calm down. With a soft sigh, she settled back into the bed, her head leaning to the side as she gave into medicinal liquid.
"What the hell is that?" Dick asked. If it wasn't for his initial panic and it resulting in her calm state, he likely would've hesitated to allow it near her.
Victor turned off the beeping noise from his arm before focusing on Dick. "Apparently, it's an extract from something called the Zelo flower. It's supposed to fend off pain and nourish healing. Amazonians apparently use it all the time."
"How do they know it'll work on her?"
Victor shrugged. "At this point, your guess is as good as mine. But it calmed her down, so maybe it'll work. It's not foolproof, but it's better than what we have. So far, her vitals returning to normal. I'll keep an eye on it. Superman is also keeping a close eye on her vitals from afar. He seems to have good faith in this extract working."
Dick took a deep breath, glanced at Kory's sleeping form, and sat at the empty chair by the table. "Well, if they trust it, I guess we'll have to."
Victor nodded, then eyed him with a frown. "Did you fall asleep in here?"
Dick almost forgot he had taken off his mask. His bags were likely apparent, as was his frazzled state. Dick was hesitant to answer but nodded. "Yeah. You didn't come back to get me."
"No, I didn't, did I?" Victor said nonchalantly. Dick gathered he meant to leave him there, likely knowing he'd put up a fight if he were forced to leave Kory's side. "Keep an eye on her, would you? I don't know how fast the medicine will work. She might wake up disoriented. She'll need a familiar face around her."
"You're a familiar face."
"Yeah, but she won't be looking for me," Victor said, looking at him pointedly. He turned to leave, saying behind him, "I'll be getting some rest in one of the guest rooms if you need me. Raven is still down the hall with Jake."
The door closed behind him, leaving Dick once again with a sedated Kory. He ran his hand through his hair, pulling out his phone to distract himself from approaching her again, thinking he may have caused the disruption by smothering her with his presence.
Since being in the room, he had gotten a few missed calls from Barbara. But not wanting to risk waking Kory again, he decided to text her back instead.
DICK: Sorry I missed your call. I fell asleep.
BABS: …Julius is worried sick. Update?
Dick looked at Kory. Her eyes were squeezed shut, and she had a slight frown. Was the medicine not working? A beat passed, but Kory made no other movement. He turned back to his phone.
DICK: Still in recovery. She hasn't woken yet but is stable.
BABS: And the baby?
Dick bit his bottom lip. He couldn't provide an accurate update because he hasn't been around him yet. He said the only thing he could.
DICK: In good hands.
She didn't text back after that. No follow-up question as to why he didn't answer his phone or why he was being so vague. Knowing her, she probably got the update from Clark or even Victor, though he was sure Victor would've mentioned it to him.
Dick knew the spotlight was on him. He would be the closest to it all and that would worry Barbara, even if she tried to mask it as concern for Kory. She wasn't heartless, but she wasn't close to Kory. Her concern only went so far past Kory being alive and well.
A soft groan sounded from the bed.
Dick looked at Kory, wondering if he imagined her making that noise. By now, her forehead was covered in sweat. He touched her forehead carefully, warmth seeping into his hand. He couldn't be sure if the solar lamps were causing her to feel so hot or if she was having a fever.
She groaned again and tried to mumble something he couldn't hear.
"Kory?" He stood by her side, caressing her matted curls from her face.
Her skin was increasing in warmth. He could see her eyes moving under her eyelids, shifting left and right.
"Kory, I'm here if you can hear me," Dick said, his voice delicate. Though she was clearly struggling, he was grateful she wasn't thrashing like before. He thought perhaps this was more physical pain than it was subconscious.
Her breathing became labored, her whimpering more frequent. Suddenly, her eyes opened with a gasp, peering straight to the ceiling. Her chest raised as if she were about to take to the sky.
"Kory!" Dick yelled out, worried she would use what was left of her power without realizing it.
She flattened on the bed, her eyes still open but half-lidded, her breathing weak and raspy but no longer strained. Dick called her name again in concern. It took her a minute to come to. She looked over to him, green clashing with blue, and frowned as if trying to decipher who he was. He grew nervous, thinking she had sustained memory loss from her injuries.
To his surprise, her frown slowly disappeared, and she smiled weakly at him. "It is you," she said with a slight slur.
Was she seeing him or someone else? He couldn't tell, but he played along anyway. "Yeah, it's me. I'm here."
"I am glad." His heart swelled at that. Though, he hoped she would feel the same once she was feeling better.
Kory tried to sit up but winced. Dick quickly grabbed her shoulders to get her back against the bed. "Whoa! You have to rest, Kory. You're in no shape to get up."
Her eyes closed in exhaustion as she nodded her head. She felt along her stomach as if trying to see if something was there. Since Jake was no longer there, her stomach had shrunk considerably. Much faster than humans. He would've never known she was pregnant if not for the knowledge that she was carrying a child. "I am… missing something?" she questioned as she rubbed her stomach.
Dick was stuck between telling her about Jake and his condition and letting her fully recover before delving into that conversation. She was clearly not all there and likely didn't remember much. Perhaps she wouldn't even remember this moment once she was better. But keeping that information from her seemed wrong.
"Yeah," he started carefully. "You had an accident, and you got badly hurt. But thankfully, you're recovering. So is Jake."
Kory seemed decisively confused for a moment before realization set in. "Jake! He is okay? I must see him!" She tried to get up again, but Dick held her down, though her strength was gaining momentum.
"Kory, you can't. Not now, but I promise you'll see him soon. It's important you rest for now. You still need to heal. Raven and Vic are taking very good care of him."
She still struggled against him, but her body eventually grew weak after a moment, and she was forced to lay back, her breath short like she had just run a marathon from her anxious response. Her breathing settled once she settled.
What effect was the medicine having on her body? Dick wondered.
"You promise?"
"Always. I would never lie to you."
"Then Julius and the team are okay as well?"
Dick sighed with a nod. "Yeah. Everyone is okay."
Kory nodded and closed her eyes again. She was so still he thought she had dozed off until she muttered his name. "Richard…"
How he longed to hear her say his name again. He was happy she recognized him after all. "Yes, Kory?"
"I am in need of the facilities."
His elation deflated, but a chuckle escaped his lips. But then he sobered up when he realized he'd likely have to help her through that process, not that he minded. But he wondered how much assistance she would need and whether he was the appropriate person to help her.
It wasn't wise for her to walk. If she struggled to sit up, how would she use the bathroom unless someone was there to carry her to and from? Dick took in his options. Raven was occupied, and Victor was taking a rest. If Victor hadn't barged in yet, that meant Kory's vitals were fine. But that didn't mean she was in the clear.
His only choice was to do it himself.
"I'll help you.",
She didn't protest as he helped her into a sitting position so he could carry her to the attached bathroom. She was quiet but pensive as he comfortably got her into his arms bridal style. Her arms were loose around his neck, her fatigue evident on her swollen features. She leaned her head against his shoulders as he adjusted his hand under her legs to support her better.
"I'm not hurting you, am I?" Dick asked.
She meagerly shook her head, muttering, "You are gentle, as always."
Dick smiled as he used his back to push the swing door of the bathroom. He set her down on the counter as he prepared the area for her. She turned to the mirror and frowned before quickly turning back to him.
"Do you think you can stand?"
Kory nodded. He took that moment to help her to her feet; however, her legs wobbled, and she fell against him and back into his arms.
"I guess not," Dick said as he sat her back on the counter.
"Please, let us try again."
"Kory, I don't think you're in any shape—"
"I will not learn to stand on my own if I do not try."
Dick sighed. He knew Kory would be difficult when it came to recovery. She was fiercely independent and hated to burden others with her issues. "I know you can do it, Kory. But it hasn't even been half a day since you've started to recover, and it's been less than half an hour since you woke up. You shouldn't even be out of bed. The medicine hasn't fully gone through your system—if it's even working. You have to take it easy."
Kory furrowed her eyebrows in defiance. Her doing that made her swollen eye seem more prominent. However, the bruising on her face had begun to dissipate, if only slightly. Dick was hopeful it was a sign that the medicine was working or her body was returning to its natural order.
Dick knew she hated feeling helpless and was always one to prove she wasn't. He was okay with letting her try, but she was beyond weak and barely had time to get used to how she was feeling.
"Will you let me help you?"
Kory stared at him, her face level with his in her position. He stood right before her, a determined look on his face. Then, she turned away, biting the side of her lip that wasn't cut with a sad expression. "I cannot," she whispered.
Dick stepped closer. "Why not? I've gotten you this far." He joked.
But when a tear dropped from her eye, then another, the smile he had wiped from his face. "I am… embarrassed."
He drew closer again, his hand itching to wipe her free-falling tears. "Why? It wouldn't be my first time seeing you in the bathroom. Or even hurt. I won't look at you any different."
"It is not you that I worry of," Kory said as she wiped her tears. "I feel weak. I do not feel or look like myself. I put myself and Jake in harm's way. What must Julius think of me? What will he see when I am in his presence again, and I cannot merely use the bathroom on my own?"
Anger bubbled in the pits of his stomach. Embarrassed? Weak?
Fuck Julius if he ever made her feel that way.
"Kory, look at me." Dick urged, his tone firm. She took a minute to gaze back at him, her eyes still wet but her tears no longer streaming.
The bruises and the swelling, he saw none of that. He saw a woman who, even at her worse, outshined everyone around her. His anger deflated a little when he moved a strand of hair from out of her face behind her ear.
"Anyone who looks at you and knows you would be a fool to think you are anything close to weak or unattractive. You are the bravest and strongest person I know and the most beautiful person I've ever met, inside and out. You brought life into this world. There's nothing more beautiful than that."
A small smile graced her face, her eyes never leaving his.
"There's nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed of. You can't help how you feel. And you'll heal. Maybe slower than you're used to, but all of this," Dick lightly caressed the bruises along her cheek, "will be a small memory one day."
"You are very kind to me, Richard. Even after all we have been through…." Kory trailed off.
"You still mean the world to me, Kory. That will never change."
The energy between them suddenly felt electrified as silence befell them. Dick still had yet to remove his hand from her face, and they dared not turn away from each other. He thought he imagined them getting closer, but when they were just a breath away, he knew he couldn't resist what happened next as temptation gave way.
Dick was slow to close the gap between them, his movements hesitant, wondering if any of this was real. He half expected her to pull away and tell him this was wrong, that they shouldn't do this. But she didn't protest as his hand slipped behind her neck, and their lips connected. They closed their eyes, each cautious but unwilling to stop what was happening between them. Something profound and grounding yet forbidden. She sighed against his lips, and he used that opening to kiss her with more vigor though careful of the cut. He could faintly taste metal from the dried blood, but that didn't deter him. He wasn't sure anything could at that moment.
Kory responded almost languidly, her pain likely chipping away at her confidence, but her hands grabbed his sweatshirt, pulling him between her legs.
Was she in her right mind? Did she know what she was doing? He wondered. Years of longing and regret came crashing around them, and they couldn't resist one more time. After all, this was all the time they had left before it changed for good. Once Jake was in her arms, it would be over for him.
Dick started to feel warm though he was unsure whether it was from her hands now on his jaw or if he was feeling the heat of the moment.
Before he could deepen the kiss and get carried away, Kory pulled back from him, breathless. She looked ready to panic until he leaned his forehead against hers to hold her steady and said, "I know we shouldn't have. I shouldn't have. I'm sorry."
Kory didn't pull back from him like he thought she would; instead, she leaned further into him as if she wanted to kiss him again. To his disappointment, however, she refrained. "It is wrong," she whispered.
"And yet, it feels so right," Dick responded.
"Why must it feel so hard to let you go?"
Dick swallowed the lump in his throat. "I wish I knew, Kory."
A fresh set of tears rolled down her face. "I must tell you something, Richard. I hope you do not think of me differently or hate me."
"Never. I could never hate you. Trust me. Whatever it is, no matter how bad you think it is, I won't hate you."
His curiosity was piqued, but he was sure of his answer.
Kory rolled her lips together, her eyes solemn. Looking at them, he felt like he could swim in her pools and fall into a bottomless abyss he never wanted to leave from.
Admittedly, Dick was distracted when she followed with, "I had planned to call her Mar'i."
He blinked, his mind trying to process what she had just said. "Mar'i?"
Kory nodded. "Our daughter. I wanted to honor your lineage. I am sorry we never got the chance."
Dick backed away slightly, his face filled with surprise and confusion. "Daughter?"
She nodded again but didn't answer this time. She turned away from him like she expected him to yell or have an angry outburst. But all Dick could do was stare at her.
Daughter? They were supposed to have a girl? As far as he remembered, they never found out the gender. The lump in his throat grew. Had he driven her away before she could tell him? Was that why she had come back that last time? And to name her after his mother…
"I imagined she would've looked like you," Kory continued as she toyed with a strand of hair. A sorrowful smile crossed her features as she stared into her lap. "I had known only a week while I was in Tamaran before… before she was gone. I exhausted my body, and when I collapsed, she had suffered because I could not transfer energy to her. Richard, I am truly sorry for disappointing you. I am sorry for our loss."
Raven was right. It hurt to think Kory blamed herself all this time. That she didn't see the stress he put on her. For thinking she disappointed him and that he would hate her for it.
How could he ever be mad at her? She gave him something to hold on to.
A name.
No one else had ever given him a gift like this and never could.
Dick pivoted forward to take her hand in his, forcing her to look at him by taking hold of her chin. "Thank you."
Kory frowned. "I do not understand."
"Thank you for trying. For being what I couldn't at the time. For still allowing her to be a part of me after all I did to drive you away. I'm not mad you held on to that information, Kory. Frankly, I don't deserve it. And yet, here you are, always being the best damn person I could only hope to be. And I'll always love you for it. Thank you for giving me Mar'i."
Kory's eyes widened at the mention of love, but she didn't comment on it. Instead, she started to shake her head. "No, I cannot take any credit—"
"You deserve every bit of credit, and I'm not letting you give it back. I mean it."
The air felt clear between them now, a comfortable stillness forming between the two and a new understanding held in the air. Dick could feel the difference in their unspoken language, in their touch. Whatever this unique bond that was growing between them was, however brief, he didn't want it to break.
Ever.
Even if he knew it couldn't last once she was back in the arms of another and her family was complete.
"Richard?"
"Yeah?"
"I am still in need of releasing my bladder contents."
He obliged her request, helping her around the bathroom, then washing their hands before picking her back up and bringing her to her bed once more. By now, she was growing more tired and struggling to keep her eyes open. He adjusted the solar lamps to ensure her body received the most out of them.
As her eyes began to blink close, she muttered, "Will you stay with me while I sleep?"
Dick sat on the edge of the bed next to her as he toyed with her curls. "I'll never leave you. I promise."
He watched as she finally gave slipped into slumber. He didn't move from his spot as he continued caressing her hair, unwilling to let go of her for even a minute. Like letting go of her would be the end of this fleeting moment she probably would forget by the time she rose again.
But for now, he held onto her like he never did before in their lingering bubble of ambiguity. For this moment only, she was his. That was all that mattered. Forever attached by a moment and a lifetime of memories and almosts.
Note: Thank you to each and every one of you for the support on this story! It means the world to me and motivates me to keep writing. I wish I could give more to this story, especially with THAT ending, but I endeavor to leave on a high note.
Stay tuned for other fanfics involving my favorite characters. Thanks for reading. Until next time!