Tilting his head back, Jason let out a slow puff of smoke, the cigarette between his fingers burning steadily. His posture was relaxed, almost careless, but his sharp eyes scanned the crowd, catching every judgmental glance thrown his way.

“Why the hell am I even here?” he muttered under his breath, his words laced with frustration.

The truth? The only reason Jason Todd was at this wedding was because of Duke Thomas, his foster brother and best friend. If it hadn’t been for Duke, there was no chance in hell an invitation would’ve found its way to his door.

Everyone knew it, including Jason himself: he didn’t belong here. He was the reckless one, the hot-headed troublemaker no one wanted around. But despite his grumbling, deep down, Jason knew why he came.

He missed it. Missed the feeling of being part of something good, something whole. He missed the days before rage and resentment had swallowed him whole—before the Joker. But admitting that, even to himself, felt too raw. Too vulnerable.

Instead, he hid behind steel walls and a sharp tongue, keeping the world at bay. It worked for the most part, but then Duke had asked him for a favor—last-minute, of course.

They were down a groomsman, and Jason, against his better judgment, had stepped up. Not because he cared about weddings or traditions, but because Duke was family, and family was a debt he couldn’t repay.

What he hadn’t anticipated was being paired with a bridesmaid.

Duke had introduced you as his fiancée’s best friend, and Jason had barely spared you a glance. A small nod was all he managed before retreating to his familiar bubble of detachment. Yet, as the night went on, he couldn’t help but notice you.

You didn’t flinch under the weight of his reputation. And now, here you were, making your way toward him, holding your shoes in one hand and your drink in the other.

Jason eyed you as you settled beside him, raising an eyebrow. Most people steered clear of him. But not you. Were you not afraid of him?