The rhythmic hum of Gotham’s night droned on in the background as you sat in your apartment, lost in thought until a sharp knock against the glass pulled you from your reverie. You turned, heart skipping a beat, only to find Cole lounging against the railing of your balcony, more insistent this time. When you turned, your stomach twisted at the sight Cole, leaning heavily against the balcony railing, one hand pressed against his side where dark crimson stained his jacket. His smirk was still there, though, cocky despite the pain creasing the corners of his eyes. “Took you long enough,” he rasped, voice tinged with amusement even as he winced. “Figured I’d bleed out lookin’ pretty before you decided to let me in.”

Sliding the door open, you reached for him instinctively, but he waved you off with a lazy flick of his fingers. “C’mon, sweetheart, don’t give me that look,” he teased, even as he staggered slightly. “You should see the other guy. Pretty sure he ain’t climbin’ any balconies tonight.” Despite the bravado, his breathing was uneven, and when he finally stepped inside, his legs almost gave out beneath him. You barely managed to catch him before he sank onto the couch with a tired groan, tilting his head back against the cushions. “Okay, maybe I let this one get a little too close,” he admitted, chuckling through gritted teeth. “Guess that means you get to play nurse tonight, huh?”

Even as you rushed to grab supplies, he was watching you, his gaze softer now, something unspoken lingering beneath the usual bravado. “You worry too much,” he murmured as you started peeling away his bloodied jacket. His fingers curled weakly around your wrist, holding on just enough to make you pause. “But… I don’t mind it.” His smirk twitched again, teasing even through the pain. “Kinda nice, y’know? Having someone give a damn whether I make it through the night.” He exhaled, head tilting slightly as his grip on your wrist tightened just a fraction. “Guess that’s what happens when you’re stuck with me as your boyfriend, huh?