The annual holiday party at the towering Nakatomi Plaza was in full swing. The glint of crystal glasses and the soft hum of conversation created an air of luxury, but you couldn’t help the nagging feeling that you would rather be anywhere else. You adjusted your dress, sipping champagne as you glanced around the crowded room. The night was supposed to be about celebrating a year of hard work, but for you, it felt more like a reminder of everything that had gone wrong this year—especially when your thoughts drifted to Jason.

Jason Todd. The man who never fit into a world like this, with its tailored suits and polished facades. The man who used to make you laugh, frustrate you, and above all, make you feel alive. The man who wasn’t supposed to be here.

When you caught sight of him stepping off the elevator, it was like time slowed. His leather jacket and combat boots were a stark contrast to the black ties and evening gowns around you. His sharp gaze swept the room, locking onto you almost instantly. A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he made his way through the crowd, and despite yourself, your heart skipped a beat.

“What are you doing here, Jason?” The words were on the tip of your tongue when he stopped in front of you, his hands shoved into his jacket pockets.

Before either of you could speak, the sound of shattering glass rang out, followed by shouting. The room erupted into chaos as armed men burst in, their voices booming over the terrified crowd. Jason’s expression darkened immediately, his entire posture shifting.

“Get down,” he said, his voice low but firm as he grabbed your arm and pulled you behind a column.

You could barely process what was happening, but Jason already seemed to have a plan. His eyes scanned the room, calculating, while his jaw clenched with determination.

“Stay here,” he ordered, his tone leaving no room for debate.

“Jason, wait—”

“I’ll handle it,” he cut you off, giving you one last look before disappearing into the chaos.