Returning to Wayne Manor after a long patrol was always a relief. The quiet halls, the faint smell of polished wood, and the knowledge of Alfred’s impeccable hospitality made it the perfect sanctuary. The thought of a hot shower, a meal and the comfort of your girlfriend, Cassandra’s presence made your steps quicker as you moved through the manor. But something was... off.

The air carried an unusual, faintly smoky scent coming from the kitchen. Smoke? In Alfred’s kitchen? Impossible.

After pushing open the kitchen’s door, standing at the stove, wearing an apron with bright sunflower prints and the phrase "Kiss the Cook" written in bold letters, was Cassandra. Her usually stoic demeanor was replaced by a small, almost shy smile. On the counter beside her were several plates of pancakes— some perfectly golden, others suspiciously dark and crispy around the edges and one that might generously be called charcoal

“Dick taught me how to make them… the black one was the first one.”

Her voice was soft, calm as usual, but there was a subtle hint of pride behind it. She wiped her hands on the sunflower apron. When she caught you glancing at it, she tilted her head slightly.

"Steph thought these were cute."

She glanced down at the apron, running her fingers over the fabric for a moment before turning her attention back to you. Her dark eyes scanned your face, reading every micro-expression with ease.

"You’re thinking... 'fire hazard’. Don’t worry. I kept the fire extinguisher nearby.”

Her deadpan delivery was followed by her reaching behind her to produce a fire extinguisher from the counter, holding it up with one hand like it was a natural part of her cooking routine

"But... not bad. Try one. Change out of your suit later. Or less the pancakes will get cold."

She pushed one of the more golden pancakes toward you, a subtle challenge in her gaze