Chapter 40: Epilogue
All was silent at Mount Justice, not even a tv or a radio was on to see what was happening outside. No one was sure if they could handle what they would be hearing, and so for now they decided to just be radio silence as no news was usually good news. Though not all was bleak, all the women who were hospitalized had woken up and were on the track to make a full recovery. Most of them were even able to get out of bed to watch over their little ones.
Except for Dinah, but she was doing alright with Oliver at her side and Roy sleeping peacefully in her arms. He wasn't under the sleeping spell, but at only 10 years old even he was exhausted from the day's events. Dinah was personally over the moon about it, having not had him sleep on her or cuddle her since he was 8 years old. Oliver of course took plenty of pictures, wanting to make sure he had plenty of photographic evidence of his son's rare babyish tendencies.
Meanwhile Zatanna was sleeping on her fathers chest as he held her in his arms. Nothing relieved him more than that fact, though he was still trying to come to terms over the fact she had a secret hero outfit he was unaware of. I mean he thought it was absolutely adorable and was relieved it was baby girl appropriate, but it also meant he probably couldn't keep her away from the team any longer. She was growing up and even though now he could still hold her in his arms and keep her safe, she couldn't and probably wouldn't stay there forever. Roy told him all about how brave and helpful his little daughter was, saving their skins many times. Even though every part of his papa side wanted to keep her far from danger, the hero side of him told Zatara he needed to let her be a part of the team. He'd have to talk to Batman about it later when they got back.
However despite the little nuggets of good news, it didn't relieve the overall heavy atmosphere in the base. The fact was there were five children under a sleeping spell, one that could only be broken by their daddies. All the mother figures present were at their sides, some even holding the children as they slept, praying for the men to come back safely to wake the sleeping babes. They knew this was ultimately for their protection, as defeat would mean all the members of the Jr. Justice League being taken by Darkseid and turned into monstrous killers subjugating the galaxy. This ensured that couldn't happen if the worst case scenario were to happen. But nonetheless the women were all worried sick about both the sleeping children and their significant others.
Selina coped by rocking her sweet little baby bird as if to keep him asleep, like if she were to stop he would wake up and cry out for Bruce. Ace watched the two anxiously worried his boy would never wake up and they would never play or snuggle together again. Lois read Conner's favorite book Danny, the Champion of the World wanting nothing more than for the little tyke to laugh and react to his favorite parts. All the while Wolf laid at the foot of his little bed, whining as he wished he could get the sweet gentle pets of the sleeping little boy. Mira prayed by Kaldurs bed side, praying to the gods for her husband's safe return so her precious child would wake up and her family could be whole once more. Iris laid in Wally's bed, holding his warm little body close to her chest, as it meant he was alive and safe in her arms even if he was asleep. Red Tornado held M'gann's little green hand not wanting her to be without company as she waited for her Uncle to wake her.
"That's it I can't take this! I need to know what's going on!" Oliver cried out as he left Dinah's bedside to go turn on the TV.
"Oli no, I don't know if everyone can handle that yet!" Dinah said as she painfully rose up, Roy in her arms, and hobbled after her lover.
Oliver went on anyway, making it to the larger TV they had to see what was going on. He turned it on just as Dinah, now supported by Roy who had woken up, entered the room. Immediately it opened to Happy Harbor Live and waited to hear any details.
"People all over the world celebrate the Justice League's victory, many even decorating around the fallen Apokolipsian ships. As a way to both commemorate their win as well as acknowledge those who have lost their lives in the wake of this horrific attack."
As the news continued the three heroes had been joined by Zatara and the now awake Zatanna. All of them felt great relief, Roy even threw himself into Oliver's arms and hugged the man tightly around the neck. Oliver gladly embraced him, properly holding and cuddling his baby boy since they rescued the protégés. However they all soon fell silent and turned their complete attention to the TV's again as it seemed the news was going to report on the original seven.
"What's that about the original seven, are you sure?!" The news anchor asked, causing enormous tension to build within the nervous group.
"More good news everyone, it seems Earth's original Justice League has successfully defeated the enemy's leader Darkseid! The intergalactic tyrant was seen leaving Earth's atmosphere about 15 minutes ago or 5:00pm eastern standard time to be exact. No interviews or photos have been taken with the original seven, but I have no doubt we will receive some in the near future."
The few watching continued to be engulfed by the reporters words, desperate for some sort of sign they were all ok. However, something even better than photos soon came to them in the form of the Zeta Beam machine turning on. Before they knew it the original seven walked in all looking worse for wear but overall ok.
Everyone present celebrated and ran up to hug the heroes for their victory and safe return. All seven of them gladly accepted, equally happy to know that everyone who went back to the base was also safe and unmolested by the forces of Apokolips.
"Dinah I'm so happy to see up and about! But what about all the other ladies in the hospital alright?! What about the kids are they…?!" Barry began to anxiously ask/ramble, desperate to know his nephew and wife were ok.
"Yes, all the others have recovered enough to get out of the hospital beds. Zatara was able to give us a little bit of a boost. We aren't fully recovered, but definitely in a better place than before." Dinah assured the frantic speedster.
"And the kids?!" Clark asked in the same manner as Barry, as if the answer would be lost forever if not asked again.
"The little ones are all peacefully under the sleeping spell, waiting to be woken up. As per your instructions. I believe you should find all the ladies in their rooms with them as well." Zatara answered as he adjusted his own daughter in his arms.
"Thank you Zatara, I know it was a big ask, all things considered." Bruce said gratefully as he gave his free hand a firm handshake.
"From one father to another, I understand what one would do to protect their children. Now go see your precious ones, I know you are all anxious." Zatara affirmed emphatically.
Without even a single word all six male originals rushed to their children, all desperate to see their babies with their own eyes once more.
The first to arrive at their child's side was of course Barry, who felt a wave of relief wash over him as he saw Iris and Wally sleeping together in his little bed. Wally was safely wrapped in Iris's arms, looking the most peaceful and calm he had been since he was 1 year old. He almost didn't want to wake her, but needing Wally to wake up and see those beautiful green eyes of his was far too imperative to his own peace. So he gently shook Iris awake, resulting in him being nearly tackled to the ground by his much relieved wife. So after that and a few passionate kisses, it was then time to give one more very important kiss.
So Barry got up on his knees and shuffled over to the junior speedster's little bed. He took in Wally's peaceful sleeping face for just one moment and then he laid a delicate little kiss on his tiny forehead. For a moment everything was quiet with anticipation, until Wally finally opened and sleepily blinked his emerald eyes. It took him a minute to figure out what was going on till he turned his head and saw his Uncle Barry and Auntie Iris kneeling there with tears in their eyes.
"Uncle Barry!" Wally cried out gleefully as he launched himself and about took his uncle down as his aunt had done.
But Barry held strong and hopped to his feet with his precious nephew held tightly to his chest. Both speedsters were crying tears of joy at their reunion, with Iris joining in almost immediately. None of them could articulate just how relieved and happy they felt in that moment, and none of them really cared because all that mattered was they were together again.
J'onn was in the next room and stood nervously over M'gann with Red Tornado at his side.
"What if she doesn't wake for me?" The Martian asked the robot.
"Why would she not?" Red Tornado responded, unable to compute Martian Manhunter's concern.
"I am not her real father, so how can we be sure that I will be able to wake her." J'onn said uncharacteristically anxious.
It was silent for a moment until Red Tornado spoke up.
"I was present when the magician cast the spell on Miss Martian and I believe if I translated well enough it meant this. Sleep young child, until the one you call father returns and kisses you with true paternal love. I don't believe the word call is meant literally. I believe it is means the one the child views as their father will be the only one to be able to wake them. From my observations of her, Miss Martian has always viewed you as her true father despite the fact you did not sire her. But it is you who can read minds, what do her thoughts tell you?"
J'onn normally would never invade the private thoughts of his niece, it was a rule he simply didn't break. But considering the circumstances, the Martian hero made an exception and looked into his niece's mind. He didn't see much as she was asleep, but he did see what she was dreaming of and what he saw made him smile. J'onn would never say what he saw, as these were the private dreams of his sweet little niece, but whatever it was gave him the confidence to kneel at her bedside and kiss her on her lovely green forehead. Just as Wally had M'gann fluttered her little eyes open and looked directly at her Uncle. With great glee the little Martian girl hopped on her knees and hugged her uncle's neck.
"Uncle J'onn you came back!"
J'onn smiled wide as he hugged M'gann back, holding her close to him. They stayed like that for a moment, until J'onn picked her up and then set her on his lap as he sat down on her bed.
"Of course I came back for you dear one. How could I not?" J'onn said blissfully as he cuddled the little girl close.
M'gann basked in her uncle's warmth, hearing his strong heartbeat sooth her almost back to sleep.
"I missed you Uncle, please don't leave me again." M'gann yawned as she snuggled in even more, unable to resist the siren call of paternal comfort.
"I promise I never will little one, not ever again." J'onn told his niece warmly and started to rock her to sleep.
Before long the little Martian girl was softly breathing as she slept on her Uncle's chest. J'onn's smile grew even bigger as M'gann's current state reminded him of his own children when they were this young.
Arthur hunted down his wife and child's room like a mad man determined to get to them like his life depended on it. Luckily he stumbled upon it and let out a sigh of relief as soon as he saw the two.
"Mira!" Aquaman called out passionately as he ran to his wife.
"Arthur!" Mira called out with equal passion as she ran from the chair she sat in to her beloved husband.
As soon as they made contact the two embraced and kissed out of pure love and longing. Arthur held her close to him even holding her head towards him as they kissed. Once they finished they let their heads rest on one another, as if to just even be touching for a moment longer. But soon after, the burning desire to see his boy filled Arthur's chest causing him to break their affectionate touch.
"Is he alright?! Is Kaldur…" The sea king asked desperately as he tried to look around his wife to see Kaldur.
"He is alright my love. He is peacefully asleep, patiently waiting for you. Though I must say that fact has not eased my worry as it hasn't yours. So please wake him, I need to hold him to my breast, to know he won't spend the rest of eternity in slumber." Mira tried to express as she began to cry out of pure maternal worry.
Arthur held his wife close and helped to sooth and calm her for a moment. The Atlantean queen quickly gathered herself together and then walked over with her husband to little Kaldur's bedside. The sea king sat on the little boy's bed and affectionately stroked his sweet face. Then unable to wait a second longer, Arther closed his eyes and kissed the tiny forehead before him. Just as the others before him, only a moment later did Kaldur's eyes flutter open as he woke up. He looked around for a bit but then smiled warmly as he saw his beloved father figure sitting before him.
"Hello my king." Kaldur greeted with an absolutely heart melting smile.
"Hello my brave little warrior." Arthur greeted back with a regal and happy smile.
For a little while the two just smiled at each other in silence, simply taking in the sight of one another. Then Kaldur raised up his little arms towards his king, and not even a second later Arthur gathered the little Atlantean in his arms. Kaldur immediately nuzzled into Arthur's neck, basking in the warmth of his chest and one on one time he was getting. Arthur just tightly held the child, taking in this moment of innocence and peace.
However an audible deep breath behind him reminded Arthur there was a very anxious queen wanting to also hold her baby. So he quickly unfurled the warm bundle from his arms and lifted him to be passed to Mira. Kaldur happily reached out to the sea queen, who quickly grabbed the little boy and held him to her breast. Kaldur happily snuggled her as Mira affectionately kissed him, making it clear he was her baby and there was no negotiating.
Soon the kiss fest was over and Mira just held Kaldur close. Arthur took this as an opportunity to join in the cuddle fest and wrapped his arms around the two. Now holding his entire world in his protective arms.
Clark listened to the sound of Lois's voice as he flew through the different rooms of mount justice. His stress was making it very hard for him to focus and think logically as he searched for his girlfriend and child. But soon enough he found them and felt a sigh of relief as he saw Lois was reading Conner's favorite book to him, Danny Champion of the World. He wanted to smile at this, but he could hear the deep sadness and worry in Lois's voice. So the Kryptonian floated over to her, landed on the ground and lovingly placed his hands on her shoulder.
"Clark, you've come back!" Lois cried out, recognizing his tender touch anywhere.
The reporter immediately flew out of her seat, leaving the book on the ground, to embrace her lover. The two squeezed each other close, both so happy to be in each other's arms once more. Neither spoke award, both afraid to find out this moment wasn't real and that they were either dreaming or in the afterlife. But eventually they separated enough to look at each other and shared a loving passionate kiss. Once they filled their need to just see and feel one another both lovers looked at little Conner still fast asleep and wrapped up in his Super Blankie for protection.
"I think we should have just a little fun with this shall we?" Clark said wanting to make this a good moment full of happy memories for his little boy.
So Clark picked up Danny, Champion of the World, turned to the where Lois left off, and then looked over Conner's bed. He then bent over and laid a gentle kiss on his soft forehead and quickly sat down to read.
"At 6 o'clock precisely he kissed me goodbye and said "promise not to wait for me, Danny put yourself to bed at eight and go to sleep. Right?" He set down the road and I stood on the platform of the caravan, watching him go. I loved the way he moved. He had that long loping stride all countrymen have who are used to covering great distances on foot. He was wearing an old navy blue sweater and an even older cap on his head. He turned and he waved to me. I waved back. Then he disappeared round a bend in the road." Clark read with a cheeky knowing smile, excited to see his son's reaction to him sitting there.
Wolf sat anxiously next to Clark, staring intently at the little boy for any sign of movement. As this all went on Conner fluttered his little eyes open and swore he could hear his daddy's voice. Was this a new dream, because he was just dreaming a pick-nik at Grandma and Grandpa Kent's farm. He was running around chasing Wolf as his grandfathers, mama (Lois), daddy watched happily. It was a bright sunny day and everything was so perfect, he didn't want the dream to end. But then much to his surprise Wolf came up on his bed and began to lick at him vigorously.
"Hahahah Wolf stop, that tickles!" The little boy laughed happily as he now knew this was all real.
This made Conner look slowly to his left and then smile brightly as he saw his daddy sitting in a chair with his favorite book.
"Daddy! You're back!" Conner cried with happy tears as he leaped up from his bed to his father.
Clark immediately dropped the book and caught his baby mid air. The two immediately hugged so tightly, Clark even holding a hand to his head and bottom like one would a newborn. Clark just let him have a good cry as happy tears leaked from his own eyes. Just the scent of his little boy was enough to make his heart swell with pure joy. Lois felt her own heart melt at the sight of father and son reunited, but also a little jealous that she wasn't included. However soon Conner noticed Lois standing there and had the biggest brightest smile on his face.
"Mama!" Conner squealed as he reached out to her.
Lois's heart skipped a beat as she heard those special words leave Conner's mouth. Never before had Conner say those words to her. There were times she swore the precious little boy wanted to, but was always scared by what she would think. Truth be told she had wanted to hear those words more than anything. She loved this little boy and wanted nothing more than to be his mother. So without any hesitation Lois took Conner into her arms and smothered him with kisses.
"Oh baby I'm so happy you're awake!" Lois cried gleefully.
"Mama, I heard you read to me in my dreams." Conner loudly whispered as he snuggled into Lois's chest.
As if it weren't full enough, Lois's heart was on the brink of explosion from that adorable little fact.
"I just wanted to make sure you had sweet dreams while we waited for daddy to come back." Lois told the little boy as she held him just a little bit tighter.
Clark joined in the love fest as he wrapped his massive arms around the two most important people in the world to him. All the while Conner had the biggest smile in the world as he felt the love from both his mama and daddy. This was all he ever wanted ever since he was released from Cadmus's control, a family of his very own where he felt loved and cared for. Now he had more than he could have asked for. Superman was his daddy, Lois was his mama, doting grandparents, his team was his brothers and sisters, the Justice League were his aunts and uncles, and a giant wolf dog on top of that. It was like a dream come true and he deserved every bit of it, a fact his mama and daddy would spend the rest of their lives ensuring he knew.
Selina was so busy rocking her baby and singing his favorite lullaby that she didn't even hear Bruce enter the room. It was only when she felt a tender and strong hand on her shoulder that made her head turn. Only for her lips to be immediately greeted by the man she loved now kneeled before her. To say Selina was filled with tears of joy and peace beyond measure was an understatement. In just under 48 hours she had nearly lost both the most important men in her life, and now here they both were within reach.
"Bruce, I was so scared I lost both of you today! Please don't put me through that again!" Selina sobbed out as she used her free hand to hold onto her lover's face.
"Not as long as I have anything to say about it." Bruce promised with a loving smile as he did the same to Selina.
For what felt like an hour the two just looked at each other longingly, wanting nothing more than to have each other and hold one another. But then they were reminded of the sweet little bundle between them as Dick made happy little purrs in his sleep, like he could feel his mommy and daddy were in the room with him.
"I think it's time to wake our sleeping little bird up." Selina said as she stood up from her chair.
"I agree, nap time is over." Bruce agreed happily as he rose to his feet as well.
Selina gingerly transferred over Dick to Bruce's strong and protective arms, watching in loving awe as the child's father adjusted and properly cradled his baby boy. For just a moment Bruce watched his child peacefully sleep, gently rocking the warm bundle in his arms. Then unprompted Bruce laid a loving kiss on Dick's forehead and waited to see those beautiful baby blue eyes open.
Like a tender new flower blooming in spring Dick woke up with an adorable tiny yawn and fluttering eyes. Like a sweet little kitten he rubbed the sleep from his eyes and looked around him. It wasn't long before he saw whose arms he was in.
"Daddy!" Dick squealed as he sat up from his arm cradle and hugged his father's neck.
Bruce adjusted his hold and hugged his son back with all the force he could muster. This was what he craved after the nightmare they had just lived through, his baby boy safe and back in his arms and his lover by his side. Which made Bruce feel emboldened to finally do something he had been really thinking on for awhile. So Bruce whispered into Dick's ear and the little boy about squealed with excitement as he unzipped his onesie to dig into his utility belt. Bruce then unexpectedly kneeled before Selina, positioning Dick carefully on his lifted knee.
"Bruce, what are you doing?!" Selina asked, confused what the billionaire was doing.
"Selina, we've always had something special between us and for a multitude of reasons we have never done anything about it. But thanks to this little guy we've actually had to acknowledge it and these last few months have been the best of my entire life because of that. This may seem like the worst timing after everything we have been through today, but honestly I don't want to put it off any longer than I already have. So Selina Kyle…" Bruce started to ask as Dick pulled out a little black box.
Dick then opened the box to reveal a stunning marquee cut diamond ring.
"Will you marry daddy, mommy!" Dick asked excitedly as he held out the ring.
As if she weren't crying enough earlier Selina full out sobbed as she lovingly picked up Dick.
"Of course I will! Nothing could make me happier!" Selina laughed and cried with joy as she snuggled Dick.
Bruce himself was tearing up a bit as he stood up and took the box from Dick. He then delicately placed it on Selina's ring finger, admiring how it seemingly became even more beautiful when it was placed there. Selina then threw her arm around Bruce, showering both father and son with kisses. It was a major turning point in the Wayne family story that day, as Bruce was about to have the whole package with a wife and son all in less than a year's time.
Those last few days had been bleak and terrifying, but the sun of good fortune and families reunited broke through those clouds. Burning away any indication that they were ever in danger to begin with, now only shining rays of a hopeful future for all the families in Mount Justice.
4 months later
It was a beautiful sunny day and the Waynes were out in the backyard garden for a bit of family time. The garden was full of bright laughter of small children as Dick was running around being chased by two smaller ebony haired boys
"Bet you can't catch me Jason!" Dick gleefully taunted his younger brother.
"Just you wait Dickie! Come on keep up Timmy!" Jason called out.
"Wait, I's not as big as yous!" Timmy responded as he tried to keep up with his older brothers.
"Boys be nice, and don't leave your little brother too far behind!" Bruce kindly reprimanded.
"Ok daddy!" Dick and Jason responded as they obediently slowed down for their little brother.
Bruce smiled at his boy's kindness and then turned to look at his wife. Selina, with her long dark hair pinned up stylishly and a lovely blush colored summer dress on, looked unbelievably content watching her boys play especially as she bounced a little scowling baby in her lap that was barely under a year old.
"They are such good boys." Selina sighed proudly at her sons.
"We're pretty lucky all things considered." Bruce added as he then stretched over to kiss his wife.
But as they did the baby in Selina's lap whined and reached for Bruce.
"Awe, are you feeling jealous of mommy Damian? Come here, let daddy give you some love too." Bruce said in his daddy voice that only his sons got to hear.
Bruce then plucked his infant son from Selina's lap, gave him a big raspberry on his pudgy baby tummy. Damian's scowl immediately was replaced with loud happy belly laughter. Bruce was one of the few who could make his son truly smile, having a more naturally serious disposition.
"Daddy come play with us?!" All three of Bruce's other sons cried out to their father.
"What do you say Damian, why don't we go join your brothers?" Bruce rhetorically asked his infant son as he stood up.
"Dear, please be careful with him!" Selina requested worriedly.
"Don't worry honey, I got him nice and secure." Bruce assured his wife as he adjusted the baby in his arms.
Bruce then turned his attention to the boys with a mischievous smirk on his face.
"I've suddenly got a hankering for little boys, good thing there's a whole gaggle of them here! Rawr!" Bruce said in a playful monster voice as he chased after his sons.
With delightful laughter the three ran away from their father, not wanting to be eaten up by the "monster". Like experts they scattered as they were trained to by their mentor/father, as to avoid his one free hand that even on its own was pretty strong. Bruce would seemingly almost catch one of the boys but they would quickly dodge and then disappear into the flowers and shrubbery. Eventually it was just Bruce and Damian in the middle of the garden hunting for their prey.
"Oh little boys, come out wherever you are!" Bruce called out as he kept his eyes and ears open for even the slightest sign of his sons.
"Sneak attack!" Three little boys cried out as they charged at their daddy and tackled him to the ground.
Bruce luckily knew they were coming and was an expert at falling carefully, especially with a baby in tow. Soon all four of the Wayne boys were on top of Bruce's chest laughing happily at their successful tackle. Bruce couldn't help but smile as he looked at his four beautiful little boys. He couldn't help but wrap his arms around them, he'd never felt so happy before.
"Bruce! Bruce! Bruce! Bruce wake up!" A feminine voice called out to him.
Before he even knew it, Bruce woke up in bed with Selina by his side, her long dark hair loose and black silk slip disheveled.
"That must have been some dream you were having, I called your name so many times." Selina teased as she gave her Fiancé a good morning kiss.
"You have no idea, it was so real." Bruce said as he then rolled his head onto Selina's lap.
"Well don't keep me waiting, what was it about?" Selina chuckled as she stroked Bruce's hair.
Bruce moaned a little with pleasure, but then racked his brain for all the details of his vivid dream.
"Well you and I were out in the garden with Dickie, except he looked older, maybe 10 years old and we weren't alone." Bruce started to explain before he was interrupted.
"Oh no an older Dickey dream, Bruce I know you don't like the idea of him getting older but he does have to grow up at some point." Selina started to tease thinking she knew where this was going.
"First off, he can grow up when I say he can grow up. Second, it wasn't that kind of dream. As I was saying we weren't alone, there were three other little boys with us. The oldest of them was I think like 7 years old with kind of curly dark hair and turquoise eyes, he was really spunky and adorably feisty. Then the one below him I think was like 4 and he had silky smooth dark hair, super fair skin, and the prettiest light blue eyes. He was really sweet and a little timid but perfectly playful too. The last one wasn't so much a little boy as he was a baby, I think a little under a year old, with spiky dark hair, a more tan complexion, and intense green eyes. He had my more serious demeanor, but was super cuddly too. I swear along with Dicky these were some of the most beautiful little boys I have ever seen in my life." Bruce told his fiancée in a rather out of character giddy way.
Selina couldn't help but smile at this idyllic gaggle of little boys her lover dreamed up. He just seemed so happy and excited, like he would burst if he didn't tell the world about them. But unfortunately despite how much joy it brought Bruce, it did remind her of a rather sad possibility.
"Sounds like a truly wonderful dream Bruce, I just wish I could give it to you." Selina tried to chuckle off, though the sadness in her voice was quite noticeable.
"What do you mean?" Bruce asked, concerned as he sat up and held Selina's hands.
"Well, you remember what I told you a while ago, right? When we first started…being intimate with each other." Selina tried to elude to, still having a difficulty voicing it out loud.
"Of course I do, you told me we didn't have to be too careful because you weren't sure if…you could have children. Selina you know that doesn't matter to me, I love you no matter what. You and Dickey are more than enough for me, more than I ever thought I would have." Bruce said for her delicately, knowing this was a particular sore spot for his fiancee.
"I know but…after how happy you sounded describing your dream. I just feel like I'm stealing something…you really want. I know you want more…." Selina tried to voice out over sobs that threatened to pour out.
However, Bruce was quick to hold her and comfort his soon to be wife.
"Selina it was just a dream, there is nothing you are taking from me by marrying me. You are everything I could have ever wanted, from the day I met you I couldn't keep myself away. It certainly was not the traditional way a man and woman meet, seeing as it was me trying to stop you from robbing a jewelry store. But I wouldn't give that moment away for all the children in the world. I love you Selina Kyle, I truly truly love you." Bruce reminded the crying woman as he kissed her on the lips passionately.
Selina immediately felt all her sadness melt away as she gave into Bruce's kiss.
"Thank you Bruce, I needed to hear that." Selina said with a bright smile as she nuzzled her husband to be's chest.
"I'm always here for you, my love, always. And I probably should have told you this before sending you into a downward spiral, but none of those three boys looked anything like each other. I'm pretty sure they were all adopted, though the baby did look the most like me, but I'm sure that was just dreamland speaking."
"I'm sure, now no more mushy talk. I have to get ready, it's a big day after all." Selina said as she tried to escape Bruce's intoxicating hold and scent.
"Awe come on can't you just stay a little longer!" Bruce whined as he tried to pull his woman back into bed with him for more…..intimate moments.
"You know if I say yes to that this wedding will never happen. Besides, it's bad enough luck for the groom to see the bride before the wedding let alone be….intimate with her. Not to mention Dinah will kill me if I'm late for all the bridal activities before our ceremony." Selina jeered as she left a small peck on Bruce's cheek.
Bruce held a hand to his cheek as if to keep that kiss from flying away, and then called out to Selina before she left.
"I love you Selina Kyle."
"And I love you Bruce Wayne, now you better get ready yourself! The wedding's in 3 hours." Selina told Bruce with great sincerity and the world's most beautiful smile as she then walked out of what would soon be their bedroom.
Bruce collapsed onto his bed, a lovesick smile on his face, hardly believing what was going on or what he was feeling. If you had told him at the beginning of last year he would not only be a father but getting married, he never would have believed you. But here it was happening before his eyes, so Bruce finally got out of bed and started to get ready for his wedding to the woman he loved.
It took him maybe about 30 minutes to get ready, and the guys he asked to be his groomsmen wouldn't be showing up for another hour. So he had a large amount of free time, leaving him wondering what to do. Till the idea to go check on his son popped into his head, making sure he was all dressed up and ready, seeing as he was their ring bearer. Not to mention it gave him an opportunity to talk to Dick about his dream, and ask about how he felt about potentially having siblings in the future.
Bruce made his way over to Dick's room but was surprised to find it empty. Initially he was confused as to where his baby bird flew off too, till he remembered Alfred being adamant he made breakfast for them that morning to ensure they ate at least once before the reception. So Bruce went down stairs towards the kitchen, dodging several vendors and decorators preparing last minute details for the wedding. It all seemed a little much to him, but he knew Selina just wanted everything to be perfect for their special day and he also couldn't say no to her when she was this happy. Eventually he made it to the kitchen and found Dick eating French Toast still in his red robin sleeper as Alfred finished up the desserts for the reception.
"Good morning daddy!" Dick greeted excitedly.
"Good morning baby bird, did you sleep well?" Bruce asked happily as he sat next to his child.
Almost immediately Alfred set down a plate of French Toast, bacon, and eggs in front of Bruce.
"Mhm! Mommy read me a story to help me fall asleep so I didn't have any nightmares. She said she wanted me to be extra happy for today! She even came in my room today and snuggled with me." Dick answered adorably as he took another big bite of toast.
Bruce couldn't help but smile at that, he knew Selina, now in full on mommy mode, was on a crusade against Dick's nightmares. The woman was determined to cure her baby of his chronic bad dreams willing to do anything to make sure he slept peacefully. She especially wanted to ensure this for their wedding day, wanting it to be nothing but a happy memory for all of them from start to finish even down to their sleep.
"That's great baby bird! It seems mommy can happily say mission accomplished. Are you excited about the wedding later?" Bruce asked, knowing the answer, but just wanting to make sure.
"I'm super excited! It means Kitty really gets to be my mommy and she doesn't ever have to go away! And I get to see Wally and Roy and Conner and M'gann and Kaldur and Zatanna and all my aunts and uncles! Everyone gets to be together!" Dick practically shouted as he stood up in his seat.
Bruce couldn't help but chuckle at his son's adorable excitement, his sweet innocence on full display. With his son in such a happy mood, Bruce decided now was the time to talk about his dream. So without any warning Bruce scooped up his little one and sat him delicately on his lap, proceeding to wipe his face clean. They then just sat there for a bit, both cuddling into each other out of pure affection.
"Baby, can daddy talk to you about something?" Bruce asked, feeling a little bit anxious.
"About what?" Dick asked, his innocent blue eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"About….a dream I had." Bruce told the little boy, as he tried to think of how to start.
"Really! What was it about?" Dick asked excitedly, rarely getting to hear about his fathers dreams.
"Well, me, you, and mommy were outside in the garden. You were playing and looked about Roy's age." Bruce started a little timidly.
"Really I was a big boy!" Dick asked as he excitedly bounced on his fathers knee.
"Yes you were older but it wasn't just you, me, and mommy outside." Bruce glossed over quickly as he then cradled Dick in his arms, as if to make it clear to his son and mostly himself Dick was still practically a baby.
"Who else was there?" Dick asked curiously, not even really noticing he was now cradled like a little baby, as it was more or less the norm when he was around his father.
"Well there were two other little boys and a little baby there with us. Just like you they had dark hair and the older two had different shades of blue eyes, while the baby had green eyes. You played together chasing each other around and then you all tackled me." Bruce gingerly explained as he softly rocked his baby.
"Really, that sounds like fun daddy. But who were the other little boys?" Dick asked as the gentle rocking made him start to feel a little sleepy and leaned his head on his fathers shoulder.
"Well…I think they were your siblings, baby. They all looked a little different from each other so I think they were all adopted like you." Bruce added, feeling a lot more comfortable now that he finally just got to the point.
"Really that's awesome! *yawn* I think that would make mommy really happy." The tired little bird yawned out, knowing the idea of more children was a sensitive subject for his new mother.
"I think I agree with you, but what about you baby? Would you want siblings, or would you feel like you weren't enough for mommy and daddy?" Bruce asked, his heart clenching in his chest.
"Why would I feel like that? I have lots of siblings already and I'd like to finally be a big brother." Dick said so innocently as he yawned once more and cuddled deeper into his father's chest.
Bruce had the biggest smile on his face as he held his baby boy even tighter in his arms. He could tell said baby had fallen asleep, which was good since it meant Dick could get in his morning nap and enjoy more of the night time festivities.
"I'm going to go out this one down for a nap, if the guys get here in the next few minutes, just send them to the men's parlor upstairs." Bruce said quietly, referring to his groomsmen who'd be arriving for their own activities, as he gently bounced his sleeping baby.
"Of course Master Bruce, just be sure he is awake and dressed by noon sir." Alfred replied with a soft smile.
"I will, can't have our ring bearer walking down the aisle in his footie pajamas." Bruce assured as he walked out of the kitchen.
After Bruce tucked Dick in his bed, he made his way to the men's parlor where he already had his groomsmen waiting for him. The groomsmen consisted of Oliver, Barry, J'onn, Arthur, Hal, and Clark as his best man. To say they were all excited for their fellow hero and friend was an understatement as each greeted him cheerfully with cheeky smiles on their faces.
"I wish you all the happiness my friend, I know Miss Selina will make you an excellent bride and mother to your little one." Arthur said happily as he had one arm around Bruce's shoulder and the other shaking his free hand.
"Thank you Arthur." Bruce said with a rare happy smile.
"From one instant dad to another, I promise you both you and Dick will be happy to finally have a lady around. You and him are truly lucky fellas to have Selina!" Barry greeted, similarly to Arthur, with a 1000 watt smile.
"Thanks Barry and I know I couldn't have chosen a better woman to help me raise my son." Bruce said with genuine gratitude.
"I am so happy for all of you, you've all deserved this from day one! I can't wait to see where the Waynes go from here." Hal told Bruce with absolute certainty of their happiness.
"Thank you Hal, I can't either." Bruce said, letting a wider smile peak through.
"Many congratulations to you and your family Bruce, I hope today serves as the first of many happy moments for you all." J'onn said calmly but with a sweet mild smile.
"I'm sure it will be." Bruce said with an optimism he was not used to feeling.
"So Gotham's own billionaire playboy is finally tying the knot! I'm sure the tabloids are all chomping at the bit to try and figure out who stole your heart!" Oliver joked as he threw an arm around Bruce's shoulder.
"You have no idea, Selina and I have had endless calls for interviews. I have nearly the entire Gotham police force at the front of my house to keep out the paparazzi." Bruce admitted as he rubbed his face in exhaustion.
"Well that's what happens when the city's most eligible bachelor finally finds a wife. Now come on let's all toast shall we!" Clark joked as he offered Bruce a small glass of bourbon.
The billionaire gladly took the glass and then quickly noticed everyone else had on as well.
"To Bruce, I always wondered what you gave the man who had everything? I always thought it was basically impossible, I mean you could literally buy anything you could want. But now I see that all those riches and treasures pale in comparison to the true human treasures in your life. Congratulations on finding your true happiness friend. May you always strive to live worthy of them and protect them with your life." Clark toaster proudly.
"Here here!" All the other groomsmen cheered as they then threw back their drinks.
"Here here." Bruce said with a content smile as he sipped his drink.
From there the men of the Justice League had more or less another after party for the Bachelor Party they had a few nights before. Of course keeping it tame as they still had a wedding to keep on track, not to mention everything one of the women in their lives would absolutely murder then if they made fools of themselves. They played some pool, secured their boutonnieres on, had a few small drinks, and overall just had a good time.
Eventually the time came that Bruce needed to get Dick ready, so the groom excused himself out of the parlor and headed to his son's room. Once there his heart melted at how adorable and peaceful his sleeping baby looked. He almost just wanted to swaddle him up in his blankie and carry him down the aisle with how sweet he looked. But he knew his son would be furious if he did, so Bruce nelt by his son's bedside and gently woke him up. With an adorable yawn the boy sleepily woke up, until he realized it was almost time for the wedding, making the boy rocket excitedly out of his bed.
After calming him down just a bit, Bruce went to work getting his son dressed up and ready. The adorable little munchkin was dressed in a little black tux very similar to his father, even had a matching black bow tie.
"There we go, all done!" Bruce declared as he stood on his knees and tightened Dick's bow tie.
"I look like a big boy daddy!" Dick squealed excitedly as he looked at his little tux in the mirror.
"Yes you do baby, a very big boy." Bruce chuckled as he enjoyed seeing his son look so happy.
"Daddy, can you do my hair like yours?" Dick requested excitedly.
Bruce blanched a bit, not expecting his son to ask for that.
"Uh sure baby, but you gotta hold still and not complain every time I tug your hair a little bit. Ok?" Bruce clarified to his child.
"Yes daddy!" Dick agreed with an ecstatic nod.
Accepting his son's answer he lifted his son in his arms and carried him to the master bedroom. There he sat Dick down on the bathroom counter and pulled out his hair gel. From the container he took out about a quarter of what he normally used gel wise and went to work. He gently as possible worked it through his son's thick, soft, dark hair. True to his word Dick didn't make a peep as his hair was carefully slicked back. Within minutes Bruce's work was complete and he had to say he was pretty proud of himself.
"Alright take a look." Bruce said as he lifted his baby up once more and turned him around towards the mirror.
Dick looked shocked as he saw his normally fluffy soft hair handsomely slicked down into a much older hairstyle.
"I love it daddy! Now I look like you!" Dick squealed as he bounced on his little socked feet on the counter.
Bruce looked more closely at the mirror and saw his son was in fact right. He looked like a little mini me of Bruce and to say his heart melted from the cuteness was an understatement.
"You're right baby, we could be practically twins." Bruce said as he hugged his baby boy from behind.
For a moment the two just enjoyed the sight of themselves together, Bruce particularly holding on tight to this sweet moment with his little son.
"Are you feeling nervous at all, little bird?" Bruce asked as he scooped up his baby into his arms.
"A little." Dick admired quietly as he was reminded his tux wasn't just for show.
"There's no need to feel nervous Dickie. All you have to do is walk down the aisle and give mommy and daddy the rings. Everyone is so excited to see you be a part of this, Ace will be walking right next to you for protection and you'll have your aunts and uncles nearby to help you if you really need help." Bruce assured the anxious little boy.
"But I wanna make you and mommy proud, it's your special day! I wanna…." Dick started to say before Bruce stopped walking and placed a gentle but firm hand on his face.
"Dickie, this isn't just mine and mommy's day, it's our day as a family. And we are entirely proud of you, how you walk down the aisle this afternoon does not affect that whatsoever. We both love you so much and today is all about that. Today we come together as a family that means mommy, daddy, and baby not just husband and wife." Bruce said as he held Dick close to his chest and looked him right in the eye.
"Really?" Dick asked with a light smile as he looked into his father's eyes for the answer.
"Yes Dick, really. So don't worry about being the ring bearer, just make sure today is the happiest day you have ever had and enjoy yourself. It's all mommy and daddy want for you." Bruce said as he affectionately nuzzled his little boy.
Dick nuzzled his father right back, no longer feeling anxious and finally excited again for his beloved mother and father's wedding.
Two hours later
Everyone was gathered in the backyard of Wayne Manor which was decorated beautifully with many large gorgeous flower arrangements that sat on ornate gold posts surrounding the ceremony seating. There were also white silks hung between the flower arrangements and lovely white carpet going down the aisle. Rose petals covered nearly every inch of the ground and pristine white cushioned folding chairs were set up for guests in perfectly straight rows. At the end was a lovely archway made of braided roots with white organza draping around it and live white wisteria hanging off it in long tendrils that almost reached the ground. The archway stood on a 3 ft platform that had a small string orchestra including violins, violas, cellos, basses, and a harpist ready to play the traditional wedding march music.
In the middle of it all stood the minister who had a pleasant and happy expression on his face because officiating weddings was his favorite duty. The wedding guests, mostly members of the Justice League, were just as cheerful as they all happily socialized with one another, all excited to see the Wayne family officially come together.
After about 20 minutes a signal was given that the ceremony was going to begin and the small orchestra began to play. As they did Bruce came down the aisle with probably the most open smile any of his friends and colleagues had seen before. Once he took his place to the right of the minister, Clark came down the aisle with Dinah as Best Man and Maid of Honor then separated at the end and took their places to the right and left respectively. The other groomsmen and bridesmaids, Lois, Iris, Mira, Diana, and Shayera, followed also in pairs. Then most adorably came Dick who diligently and as grown up appearing as he could, came down the aisle with a little white silk pillow topped with the rings.
Everyone couldn't help but awe with the pure cuteness as the small boy made his way to the altar. Being that he was the smallest in the wedding party it took him a bit longer to make it, but everyone was more than willing to be patient for the precious little boy. Eventually he made it and stood by his Uncle Clark, but one look into the large audience, even if it was all his loved ones, made him nervously clutch to his uncle's pants. Clark immediately put a comforting hand on his soft little head, making it clear they were all so proud of him and no one was judging.
With the last of the wedding party arrived, it was now time for the main event, the bride.
"Would everyone please rise for the bride!" The minister said calmly but loud enough for everyone to hear.
Everyone in the audience immediately did so and turned their attention to the beginning of the aisle. The small orchestra slowed the music down a bit as Selina came down the aisle, accompanied by Red Tornado in his humanoid body, and everyone nearly gasped at how beautiful she was.
Selina's dress was a stunning sweetheart necklined mermaid gown that elegantly flared out around her thighs. The dress was made out of pure white charmeuse with sparkling black lace appliqué around the end of the skirt and all around the bodice and thighs. The straps were also made of black lace and hung just off the shoulders giving both a sophisticated and slightly sensual appearance. The thin black silk choker around her neck only added to this look, but very tastefully. Her now long dark hair was fastened to her right side with a diamond clip, teased up a bit, and loseley curled. A pair of lovely hanging tear drop diamond earrings hung from her ears complementing the small pointed diamond tiara that also sported a face length black netted veil. In her hands was a bouquet of white roses and lilies bound together with a black silk ribbon that was secured with a myriad of white pearl pins.
Bruce's heart skipped a beat as he saw Selina walk towards him looking more beautiful than ever. So many thoughts and feelings bubbled up inside him as his bride came closer and closer. Was this really his life, was he truly marrying the woman of his dreams, growing the family he thought he'd never have? As these thoughts ran through his head he didn't even realize that Selina was right in front of him until the minister spoke up.
"Dear ye beloved we gather here today to bind this man and this woman in holy matrimony. Marriage is perhaps one of the greatest gifts given to us by God as it provides not only companionship but safety, replenishment, peace, and everlasting joy. But that is only as long as like a garden marriage is tended to, watered, and fed. It is imperative that you both do this all the rest of the days of your life, as only that will bring you longevity and prosperity in your union. Now that I have given that small spiel, I believe our Bride and Groom have vows they wish to say to one another. Why don't we start with ladies first." The minister said as he gestured towards Selina.
Selina tenses a little, as she felt her nerves rise a bit, but she then quickly took a breath, flipped her veil over her head, and held tighter to her bouquet.
"Bruce, you and I have known each other for several years now. For the most part in those several years, we have been playing a seemingly endless game of cat and mouse. You would try to bring me in to answer for my crimes and then I would escape and initiate another round all over again. In that time I always thought you were such a mysterious creature with a strange rugged handsomeness to you. I would never voice this to you, as I was far too entertained with casually flirting with you and making you even just a little bit flustered. But earlier this year when you brought a little bird with you, then I saw something else that made you almost impossible to resist. The way you loved and doted on a little boy hardly tall enough to reach your thighs. The way that even as the dark knight you could never resist him just melted my heart and made me want you more than ever. I can never thank you enough for trusting me to be around Dick, because it helped me to find a whole new side of me I never even knew existed. It may sound cheesy but you complete me Bruce Wayne, you are the other half of me I didn't know was missing. You fill me with love until it runs over and soaks the ground around me. You make me feel safe and like someone out there truly cares if I come back home at night. Bruce, you are my fairytale prince in every way and I'm so grateful that you'll be with me for the start of our happy beginning." Selina said with all her heart as she held back the tears pooling in her eyes.
For a moment everything was quiet as everyone absorbed Selina's words and waited for Bruce to respond. They honestly wondered how he was going to top the bride's beautiful declarations but then he opened his mouth.
"Selina, for years you have vexed me and made me flush in a variety of ways. Almost every interaction with you feels like you have been trying to chip away at the armor I have encased around my heart in order to serve as a protector of Gotham. Initially this frustrated me to no end and made me feel like you were just trying to exploit some kind of weakness in me. But over time I have come to appreciate this about you and have even come to love it. You force me to feel when I don't want to, you have helped me to see that what I feel can be turned into a strength and is not a weakness I have to hide. You see me for who I really am and choose to love me no matter how much I think it to be impossible. You're not only everything I want in my life, but everything that I need to remind myself that the heart can not be neglected and must be cared for. You make me not only a better man but a better father and there is absolutely no one else I would rather be the mother of my child. You let him in so easily to your beautiful nurturing heart and have filled our family with so much love. Watching you two cuddle, play, sing, cook, learn, and do just about anything together reminds me everyday that love is an ever expanding bond that has no limits. I truly love you Selina Kyle and I hope I can make you feel that every day for the rest of our lives as we grow each other and our family into the one we have always wanted."
Almost no eye was dry by the end of Bruce's vows as no one ever expected anything so touching and beautiful to come from him. But despite the beautiful moments the ceremony did have to continue, so the minister dried his eyes and continued.
"Now that vows have been exchanged it is now time for a more physical but equally symbolic exchange. May the one with rings step forward?" The minister requested with a cheerful smile.
Dick stiffened up a bit as it was now his turn, but luckily Clark placed a comforting hand on his shoulder giving him the needed confidence. So the little boy walked carefully forward with the rings and as maturely as a six year old could muster presented them to his mommy and daddy.
"Thank you kitten, you did that beautifully." Selina whispered tenderly as she placed a kiss on Dick's forehead and picked up her ring.
Dick smiled happily immediately feeling all the confidence he should. Then his father bent down and did something very similar.
"You're truly the best ring bearer in the world Dickie, good job." Bruce said as he took his ring and kissed his son's head.
With his job complete and a million dollar smile on his face, Dick returned to his position and was unexpectedly picked up by Clark. The large man couldn't help himself as he was so proud of his nephew overcoming his fear and he felt it was the best way to keep the excited little bird still now that his happy energy returned.
The ceremony continued on as the minister looked at the happy couple in front of him.
"You may now exchange the rings, which serve as a symbol of your vows you have made. Circular and without end." The minister instructed and explained.
The two looked at each other with a deep look of love and then proceeded to put the rings on one another's fingers. Once that was complete the minister allowed for a moment for the two to just look at each other without any sort of interruption. To say the two were happy and in love was an understatement, the two burned brightly with pure adoration and passion for each other even just staring at one another. Satisfied with what he saw, the minister closed the ceremony.
"With the rings now exchanged I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride." The minister declared with a smile.
Without even an ounce of hesitation the two wrapped their arms around one another and kissed each other passionately. The crowd around them cheered and clapped, all so happy for the two lovers as they sealed their love for all to see. But then after they finished, Bruce turned to Clark and signaled that he wanted his baby. The kryptonian happily and carefully passed the child to his father, but now felt his arms hunger to hold his own child.
Bruce quickly held his child in between him and his now wife and the two immediately kissed the baby bird's cheek that was closest to them. The two newlyweds wanted to make it perfectly clear to the audience that this wedding was not just about them, but their now official family. Dick was completely oblivious to this as he couldn't help but giggle as his parents kissed him at the same time, feeling the most loved he had in his entire life. Everyone awed at this, moved by the pure love they saw as Dick's mommy and daddy declared their love for not only each other but their precious baby boy.
The rest of the evening went swimmingly, as dinner was served for the reception, the children were given games to play, the adults talked and enjoyed one another's company, and everyone just lovingly celebrated the Wayne family coming together.
Bruce and Selina stood under a beautifully decorated archway as everyone came up individually to congratulate them on their marriage. It was a little exhausting for the naturally introverted Bruce Wayne, but having his wife by his side made it a little easier to keep his moral up. He also knew that his friends and colleagues wanted to make it clear how happy they were for him, so he made sure to appear extra grateful for their support.
Eventually the night started to reach a close after the couple had their first dance together and they cut the cake together. Once it was served and everyone consumed the delicious confection, people began to say their goodbyes and head home. As Selina and Bruce watched their wedding come to a close, Bruce felt a gentle tug on his slacks. He looked down to see a sleepy little boy covering his mouth as he yawned.
With a cheeky smile on his face Bruce scooped up his sleepy baby and held Dickie tenderly to his chest. Dick smiled contently as he laid his head where he could best hear his father's heart beating and closed his eyes. Selina, unable to resist, kissed her son's cheeks and then laid her head on her husband's shoulder. Bruce felt like he was floating on the clouds as he for once felt the comforting presence of hope and contentment. Here he was married to the love of his life, his precious little son curled up in his arms, and his family all within and in the safety of his reach.
For once his house felt like a home and Bruce felt like all was right with the world. He knew there were still scary times ahead and Gotham was still in need of the Batman. But he now had a family to help him through all that and he promised himself he would never forget that or let any harm come to them. With all that in mind the Wayne family made their way back into their home together, warped in the arms of each other and of pure, loving, and strong bonds of their new family.
The End