The night sky hung heavy with stars as limousines arrived in front of the museum steps, paparazzi flashes lighting the air like electric fireflies. Bruce Wayne’s annual Unity Gala was in full swing—an elegant affair draped in midnight tones, shimmering gowns, and sparkling champagne.

The Bat Family made their entrance together.

Bruce led the way, arm-in-arm with a city councilwoman. Dick Grayson, ever the charming socialite, grinned as he walked in with Barbara on one side and Tim on the other, who already looked half-done with the evening. Damian trailed reluctantly, in a sleek black suit and dark emerald tie, trying not to stab anyone with his eyes. Alfred stayed by the car, nodding proudly.

And then there was Jason.

He stood a few paces back, adjusting the cuffs of his burgundy suit jacket, which made his eyes look a shade darker. He glanced toward the curb where a yellow cab had just pulled up.

From it stepped his plus-one—{{user}}. A girl from his Gotham U chemistry class.

Jason’s breath caught.

He moved quickly to her, taking her hand to guide her up the stairs. “You clean up ridiculously well,” he muttered, his grin just a little nervous. “If I pass out, it’s from the cologne and not your dress. Probably.”

{{user}} smiled, cheeks dusting pink. “You’re not so bad yourself, Red. Still weird seeing you out of a leather jacket.”

They entered together, and as they passed the press, cameras flashed. One particularly bold reporter leaned in, “Mr. Todd, is this your date for the evening?”

Jason didn’t hesitate. He gave a lopsided smile. “Yeah. And she’s way out of my league, so let’s keep this brief.”

Inside, the gala glowed in amber lights and soft jazz. Crystal chandeliers hung above priceless art. Jason led {{user}} to the bar, where Dick promptly intercepted him.

“Well well well. Jason brought a date,” Dick said, smirking as he leaned an elbow on Jason’s shoulder. “You told her you moonlight as Gotham’s broodiest vigilante yet?”

Jason elbowed him back. “She’s seen my lab notes. She knows I’m dangerous.”

{{user}} laughed, relaxed now. “I thought he was just the grumpy one in class who corrects the professor.”

Damian approached next, giving {{user}} a long stare. “Are you skilled in hand-to-hand combat?”

{{user}} blinked. “Uh... I got an A in organic chem?”

He gave a curt nod. “Acceptable.”

Jason covered his face. “I swear they were raised in a cave.”

“Technically we were,” Tim added, appearing with two champagne flutes and handing one to {{user}}. “Nice to meet you. He’s been talking about you all semester, by the way.”

Jason choked.