Bruce was used to attention. At galas, on covers, in whispers behind fluted glasses of champagne—his name carried weight. But tonight, it wasn’t his fortune, his face, or even his reputation that turned heads.

It was her.

The charity auction was supposed to be harmless. A few dates raffled off for a good cause, some flirty banter, a photo or two. No one expected Gotham’s most untouchable bachelor to raise his paddle.

And certainly not for her.

The room fell quiet as the gavel hit the block.

“Sold,” the announcer declared. “To Mr. Wayne, for five million dollars.”

She blinked from the stage, stunned. He didn’t even look smug. Just calm. Certain. Like she’d been his long before anyone else knew it.

Bruce stood, adjusted his cufflinks, and offered her his arm.

He didn’t bid to win.

He bid to claim.