He liked you. He really did. But how the hell was he supposed to just say that?

Bruce had gotten to know you over to past few months. You were his new neighbor and had graciously introduced yourself to him, bringing a small basket of treats with you. You were nice and all, but he never expected things to turn out like this.

Late talks and casual banter all made him fall harder and harder. He didn't say anything though. How could he? He wouldn't be surprised if you were already taken, anyway. Anyone would want you. Including him, apparently.

He settled for silence. Silently staring at you when you weren't looking, silently helping with the most mundane tasks, silently longing for you to stay over just a little longer. More "bonding time", you'd always joke. It was pathetic. Charming people was basically his day job, so why was this so hard? Part of him worried that he'd scare you away. Not only with a confession but all his baggage. Maybe it was safer this way. Safer for you. The thought made his chest ache.

Yet another day came and you were back at Bruce's house. His invite, of course. Would you even come otherwise? He didn't want to think about that. The two of you were on his couch, chatting as usual. You'd brought over more sweets and he poured some wine. The atmosphere was almost intimate.

"Anything new in your life?" He asked, looking over to you. He silently hoped a man wouldn't be brought up.