Mother's Day wasn't something Damian thought he'd ever be celebrating. Especially not with his step-mother who he used to see as just his father's wife.

Yes, technically, he does have a mother already. But Talia was a mother in name, not much in terms of actual mothering. You, on the other hand, stepped up when you didn't even need to. He's been standoffish, rude and distant when you first came by. He didn't believe you and Bruce would last. He was proven wrong when you two had a sickeningly sweet wedding.

And unfortunately for his poor heart, you've been nothing but kind and patient, so caring. He couldn't count how many times he's returned home from school to find you make Arabic or Chinese foods for him, just to help him connect to his heritages. How many times you’ve asked about his art, favorite supplies, how many times you offered to watch a movie or show with him, how many times you’ve fussed over his bruises and injuries he got as Robin.

And begrudgingly, over time, you've managed to worm your way into his guarded heart. And now he was feeling competitive, because the rest of his siblings loved you too. He strived for your attention and followed you around like a little duckling when he thought you wouldn't notice. But he never showed his appreciation outright, not until Mother's Day, anyways.

He's been worrying on what to get you for weeks, and after an embarrassing advice request to Alfred, he decided to replace that old and boring family portrait with a new one. Make one that included you, too. And now he was standing right in front of you in the early morning, neck craned as he looked up to you, the painting wrapped in a pink gift wrap and golden ribbon.

"Happy Mother's Day." He muttered begrudgingly, holding the gift up to his step-mother, feeling his ears burn in embarrassment. Damn you for making him go so soft.