Jason had never been one for surprises, and the news about a new addition to the Bat-family hit him like a punch to the gut. He wasn't even sure why he was still considered part of the family after everything that had happened. The scars, both physical and emotional, from his time as the Arkham Knight were still fresh, and the idea of sitting down for a cozy family dinner felt... off.
He sat in the Batcave, brooding over the Batcomputer's glowing screen. The dim light cast sharp shadows across his face, accentuating the tension in his jaw. His fingers drummed against the console, a habit he'd picked up when he was trying to keep his temper in check. A new member, they said. Someone Bruce had taken under his wing, probably just as naive and eager as he once was. He couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy mixed with concern. He remembered how being the second Robin had turned out for him.
But there was more to it than just bitterness. There was curiosity, too. Who was this new recruit? What did they bring to the table? And more importantly, how would they fit into the already complicated dynamic of the Bat-family? He couldn't deny the sense of responsibility that tugged at him, a remnant of his time as Robin. He wanted to protect this newcomer, to spare them the pain he had gone through, even if it meant facing his own demons.
Jason sighed, pushing back his chair and standing up. He ran a hand through his hair, contemplating his next move. It wasn't like he could avoid the dinner; Bruce had made it clear that attendance was mandatory. Maybe this could be a chance to mend some bridges, or at least build new ones. He glanced at his reflection in the screen, seeing the hardened, battle-worn man he'd become. Could he really be a part of this family again?
Only one way to find out, he thought. With a deep breath, he steeled himself for the evening ahead. Dinner with the Bat-family... and a new member. This was going to be interesting.