Chapter 18

Bruce headed down to the main lobby eager to have his new son safe in his arms. For the next 24 hours, that kid wasn't about to leave his sight.

A nurse came around a corner and met his eyes. She motioned for him to follow. He appreciated the discreteness. She brought him to a room tucked into a corner.

"The doctor will be in soon," she said, holding the door open for him.

"Thank you," Bruce replied, nodding at her.

Inside stood two policemen faithfully guarding his precious son. They stepped outside seeing him enter.

Dick lay unconscious on the bed, but his breathing was steady. Bruce sat down, leaned over, and kissed the top of his head. His voice shook.

"Oh Dick, you have no idea how terrified I was. I thought I lost you. I'm so sorry."

After getting Alfred's Red Alert signal he knew it was bad. Unfortunately, he had been in a meeting when the attack went down thus wasting precious time.

Alfred only sent that code when it was something he couldn't handle. It also alerted the GCPD seconds after sending the notice to Bruce.

Bruce had hoped Alfred would never have to use it, but alas here they were.

A sharp rap on the door made Bruce look up. Doctor Westley entered, holding a clipboard full of papers. The tall slim man with black hair and glasses sent him a sad smile.

"Hello, Mr. Wayne. I'm sorry we have to meet under these circumstances."

Bruce let out a sigh. "As am I. How is he?"

Bruce trusted Doctor Westley whose family of doctors had looked after the Wayne's since Bruce's grandparents.

"Considering what he went through, I'm amazed at his condition. My greatest concern is his right shoulder. It will need to be stabilized and put in a sling for further recovery."

"What happened?"

"Not only is it sprained, but there is a small hairline fracture on the top of his humorous bone that can be healed with rest and recovery. Most likely the result of landing on something hard or getting hit with a hard object. Recovery time is 6-12 weeks so the kid won't be physically active for a while."

Bruce clenched his jaw. He'd have to ask Dick for any specifics once he woke.

"Alright, anything else of concern?"

Dr. Westley quickly flipped through several pages of physical reports.

"Labs indicate his system is clean of any drugs or poisons. He has multiple bruises and abrasions but nothing life-threatening. I recommend lots of rest, fluids, and low-movement activity. The kid's a fighter for sure."

"Thank you, doctor."

"How is Alfred doing?" Dr. Westley asked.

Due to the severity of Alfred's injuries, he had been moved to the trauma unit. A unit outside of the floors Dr. Westly oversaw.

"He's hanging in there."

"I don't know many details about the attack, but did they find those responsible?" The slim man asked hesitantly.

Bruce glanced up at him. "Some, but not all. GCPD is heading up the investigation."

"Well, I hope justice will be brought. If you could sign these last two pages for the release of Richard into your custody that will be all for now."

Bruce signed off. "Doctor, when he wakes and is alert, can I take him to see Alfred?"

The doctor paused midway to the door. "Once his arm is stabilized and he is coherent and not in any pain, I'll send a wheelchair over."

The doctor left and sent in the nurse who checked his vitals and rebandaged his shoulder packing it into a sling.

"He's on a mild sedative and pain meds, but he should be awake within the next half an hour. Page me if you need anything."

Bruce nodded his thanks. Once the nurse left, he called Selena.

"How is he?"

"He's a little banged up, but still out from the sedative. I'll bring him up once he's awake. Tell Alfred to go back to sleep. It will be a while. Dick is safe and fine."

"Alright. I'll let you know if anything changes."

"Selena?"

"Yes, Bruce?"

"Do you need to go home? I know it's been a crazy day. Let me drive you home."

"Ha? And leave your family again? Not necessary. I'll call my dad and he'll get me. Thanks for the offer, though."

"Of course, thank you for everything. Can I meet you downstairs?"

"Sure. See you soon."

Ten minutes later, Selena had assured Alfred his grandson was safe and would see him soon. Satisfied, Alfred promised he'd get some sleep.

Bruce waited in the lobby and looked up to see Selena looking none too worse for wear, her dark hair now loose along her shoulders, though she was probably exhausted. It was nearly 2:30 in the morning.

Her heels clicked on the linoleum floors. "Hey, can I see him?" She asked quietly.

"Sure, he's sleeping."

Bruce led her to his room and waited outside.

Selena covered her mouth with her hands. The poor child had been through the wringer. "Dick, I know you can't hear me, but your father and I were so worried about you. You're safe now, so rest up so we can hang out. Sleep well, baby." Selena bent down and kissed his cheek.

She stilled upon hearing him groan. He cracked open an eye. "Mom?" Selena froze and then realized the child probably had no wherewithal of his surroundings. Poor kid. "Shh, go to sleep now."

"Mmm. K." Dick closed his eyes and Selena looked down realizing he was holding her hand.

She waited till his breathing was steady and slipped quietly out of his grasp tucking his hand under the blanket.

She closed the door softly and turned to see Bruce fighting off a yawn. The poor man must be beyond tired.

"Thanks, Bruce. Can I get you anything?"

Bruce looked down, noticing her presence. "Ahh, sorry. No, I'm fine. Thanks. Let's get you home."

Bruce waved goodbye after handing Selena off to her father. He turned and headed back inside. Since Dick wasn't going to wake up anytime soon, Bruce asked if he could switch rooms to be next to Alfred when he woke. Alfred's was a double room so the hospital staff obliged. That way Bruce didn't have to traipse up and down three flights of stairs.

They set up Dick's bed next to Alfred's who were both deep asleep. Bruce glanced at his watch. It was now nearing 3:30 am.

Bruce had so much work to do, but his body was fighting him. He checked his bandage in the bathroom satisfied that the bleeding stopped. Pulling up a chair he finally sat down and laid his head back.

What a day, night or morning? Whatever. I'll just rest my eyes for a bit. Bruce thought. He was out like a light in two minutes.

The next morning, a soft rap on the door sounded and Selena peeked her head in. Soft sunshine faintly filtered through the windows casting a warm orange glow on the three sleeping forms.

She smiled. What a picture perfect moment. Dick had curled up into a ball clutching his pillow. Alfred had the blankets up to his chin and Bruce…well Bruce looked cold. He hadn't even taken his coat off since last night. He must have crashed right then and there. Selena found a spare blanket and gently draped it over his body. He snored softly letting Selena know he was in a deep sleep. She often worried about her friend seeing him come meet her at times with dark circles under his eyes. He always brushed it off saying it was late-night meetings. Selena somewhat doubted that though she knew he was very busy.

She clicked her tongue. This man seriously needed a companion or a wife for that matter. She turned away quietly unpacking what she brought with her and slipped noiselessly out of the room.

Bruce opened his eyes groggily caught off guard by the unfamiliar ceiling above him. His eyes instantly snapped open and his body jerked awake as he observed his surroundings. Hospital? Right the attack. He looked right and saw the sleeping forms of two patients gently rising and falling. He rubbed his face with his hands suddenly feeling quite grimy. He checked his watch. It was 10:30 am. He looked down to find a blanket draped over him. He didn't remember grabbing one earlier. Probably the nurse. He got up and went to wash his face, stopping suddenly to look at the table on the side of the room. On it sat a large bouquet of flowers; a mixture of lilies, tulips, and roses. A card sat in front of it next to it was a brown bag full of an assortment of pastries and baked goods. He opened the card.

Wishing you a speedy recovery. Get well soon!

~The Kyle family

p.s. Let's all have dinner when everyone's recovered. My treat. -Selena

Bruce smiled. That woman was something else. Nothing short of what a best friend would do.

He set the card back down and went to wash his face feeling a bit more refreshed. Dick would probably like a shower though he wasn't sure with that arm of his. He'd have to talk to the nurse.

He ran a hand through his hair. He seriously needed to cut it. Normally Alfred scheduled those things for him, but now he'd have to take one for himself with his butler out of commission. Perhaps next week. He had plenty of other high-profile things on his docket today.

Satisfied with his clean face, he spent a few minutes cleaning up and tidying himself. His house would be sealed off but he could still grab a few belongings unbeknownst to others.

He'd have to rent a hotel room for a bit until he could access one of their safe houses as the mansion got repaired. He leaned against the sink and blew out a breath. To him his family came first. Then the bad guys and everyone else. However, crime didn't see it that way.

Coming out of the bathroom, he quietly opened the brown package and helped himself to a frosted donut. He could use the sugar rush. He normally avoided sweet pastries, not liking the unnecessary fats and carbs, but on the flip side, his vodka probably held the same amount of terrible nutrients.

He chewed on the soft dough and clicked on the TV carefully muting it. Of course, his mansion explosion still took top headlines. He knew the news vultures would be all over this one. He watched a taped recording of Gordon and the head of GCPD responding to a press conference with as much limited information as he could say which was but a handful of breadcrumbs. Mainly the attack was by unknown people. No, the public wasn't in danger. Yes, the Wayne's are safe and in a secured location. No, Mr. Wayne is not taking any comments at this time. As the investigation is completed more information will be released. Thank you.

Bruce had to give it to the guy. He knew how to hold the wolves at bay and toss them treats to please them. He would have made a great politician.

Bruce clicked off the television as his phone buzzed. It was Gordon. Bruce headed into the bathroom.

"What is it Gordon?"

"Wow, you sound terrible. Long night?"

Bruce chuckled. "More like early morning."

"Well, in that case, I will make this quick. Can you meet me at my office this afternoon?"

"Yes. The family is in good hands, but I don't wish to leave them alone for too long."

"I understand. In that case, I will come to you. The hospital Director owes me a favor. I'll arrange for a private, secure conference room."

"Alright. What time?"

"13:30. Don't be late. You're going to want to see what I have. I'll text you the room number."

"Understood. I'll see you then."

Bruce ended the call, his mind not quite ready to engage in investigative work, but it had to be done. Just as he exited the bathroom, Dick sat up in bed with a small cry of confusion. Bruce was at his side instantly.

"Dick, hey look at me, you're safe," Bruce said grabbing his left hand not in the sling.

The small boy's eyes were wide as saucers staring at him as if he weren't real. Bruce rubbed his back in comfort. "It's alright. I'm here."

"Dad…" The kid whispered grabbing Bruce's arm. The small boy squirmed into his side. Bruce had a better idea. He gently lifted the child onto his lap mindful of his injured arm. "Shhh, I'm here, son. You're safe. I promise." He continued to hold the child realizing he was shaking whether it was due to him reliving the hellish night or cold, Bruce wrapped him up in the hospital blanket. The kid gripped his shirt and let out a muffled sob as he buried his face into his chest.

Bruce mumbled as many words of comfort as he could, but he knew it would be some time before the kid felt any sort of true comfort. He had no idea what was going on in that small brain. He would eventually have to address what had happened in the hours of his traumatic fight, flight, and kidnapping. The kid would need a serious therapist. Heck, they all did.

He stroked the top of his head. "Do you want to talk about it?"

The kid shook his head.

"It's alright. Would you like a donut? Selena brought some over."

The kid immediately perked up, slowly nodding his head revealing tear-stained cheeks. Bruce looked up grateful he had pulled the white privacy curtain between Alfred's bed and Dick's. He wasn't sure if the child was ready to see an unconscious family member.

Just as Bruce rose, setting the kid back down, the thick white curtain slid back and Alfred waved. "Good morning, young Master Richard."

Both heads snapped toward the voice and Dick startled as if surprised to see him. "Alfred?"

Bruce paused unsure of his next move.

"See? I'm okay kiddo!" The old man sounded quite rough. He smiled at the child, but then looked concerned as the kid let out a choked wail.

"I…saw them…you fell…you're alive?" Dick rambled out as more tears poured down his face.

"Oh, son. I am okay. Your father came to my rescue."

Bruce knew that wasn't entirely true, but the details weren't important in that moment.

Alfred decided to change the topic. "Are you okay?" He nodded his head toward his grandson's bandaged arm.

For the first time, Dick seemed to notice his injury. The surprise showed on his face. "Oh!"

"His shoulder got banged up but will heal over time. No strenuous activity. Doctor's orders. Now who wants a pastry?" Bruce interrupted. He didn't wish to linger on the attack for too long. It was still too fresh. Too raw in everyone's memories. He knew he'd be having nightmares about it for some time.

Alfred chose a blueberry muffin and a scone while Dick grabbed a chocolate-frosted donut hole with multi-colored sprinkles. Bruce was about to go find some juice when the nurse walked in clearly happy to see the patients no longer unconscious. In her hands, she held apple juice and jello. She frowned at seeing the sugary pastries everyone was holding but wisely held her tongue. She checked everyone's vitals and satisfied no one was in any pain, she informed them the doctor would be in shortly.

Bruce nodded his thanks. She denied his offer to enjoy the delectable delights. I bet she's one of those avocado toast lovers, Bruce thought. Bruce understood eating healthy, but putting what he considered the equivalent of guac on toast will never appeal to him.

They happily munched away on breakfast grateful for the distraction. Bruce's phone buzzed. He fought the urge to look at it when a knock on the door sounded. Bruce got up seeing the police badge through the window on the door.

"I'll be right back," Bruce said shooting his family a thumbs up.

Once outside, he spoke with the officer.

"Mr. Wayne, I have some guests here who wanted to know if they could see you." He held up a radio.

"Who is it?" Bruce asked.

The man echoed his question into the radio.

"It's your secretary from the office sir."

"I see. I will head down there. Thank you for informing me."

Bruce nodded at the officer jerking his head back toward the door. The policeman put away his radio and repositioned himself in front of the door.

Bruce had no idea what his secretary wanted, but it peeved him a bit that his business seemed to still get in the way of spending time with his family.

He strode out to the lobby and saw Lily. In her hands was a colorful bag and another bouquet of flowers.

"Ms. Lily, can I help you?" Bruce asked coming around to face her.

"Mr. Wayne, I am so sorry to hear what happened. The whole office is in shock. Here these are for you. Is your friend okay?" The slim woman asked her eyes searching his earnestly.

The only thing the office knew of was that he lived with an old family friend that helped them back when Bruce's parents were alive. They had no idea about his adopted ward. He needed to keep it short and simple.

"Why thank you. Yes, he will be alright. Thank you for your concern, Lily. Tell the others I'll return to the office in a few days."

"Oh, please don't rush yourself. Anything you need you just let me know," She sent him a genuine smile.

He took the bag and flowers from her. As he turned away, Lily stopped him.

"Oh, wait, Mr. Wayne, this came for you this morning." She slipped a large white envelope into the bag that was full of cards.

"Ah, thank you." He nodded at her and watched her get safely escorted out, before hopping onto the elevator. Once back on his floor, he motioned to one of the officers. "Comb, through these, make sure they're safe."

"Of course, sir."

Bruce didn't care if Santa himself brought a card, he'd double-check everything. Before he let the bag of cards down, he slipped the white envelope into his jacket pocket. There were some things the police didn't need to inspect.

After a few moments, the all-clear signal came and Bruce rummaged through the bag finding another box of donuts. He set them on the table next to the officers.

"Help yourself, guys." Bruce said as he slipped back into the room.

He entered to find Dick and Alfred watching a kid's cartoon on the TV. They both turned to watch him as he entered. He lifted the bag. "More get-well cards from my office." He placed the other bouquet on the table next to Alfred's bed.

"Any more bouquets and we'll have ourselves a jungle," Alfred said with a grin. Dick nodded in agreement. His attention went back to the television screen. Alfred shot Bruce a knowing look. Bruce merely held his gaze knowing exactly what it meant.

Bruce took a seat in the chair when Dick turned his head toward him. Bruce felt eyes on him and looked up. His son patted the hospital bed. Bruce knew what he wanted. He got up and Dick slid over as Bruce took off his coat and slid into the bed. Dick tucked himself under Bruce's arm and rested his head in the crook of his shoulder. Bruce pulled the hospital blanket around the kid mindful of his injured side.

"Comfortable?" Bruce rumbled.

Dick nodded remaining silent.

"Good." He gently kissed the top of his son's head. "Now let's see what adventure this little monkey is going to go on."