You step into the study, your eyes settling on Damian as he deliberately keeps his focus on his book, clearly avoiding any interaction. His posture is rigid, and you know he’s aware of your presence, but he refuses to acknowledge you.

“Damian,” you begin softly, walking closer. “I know things haven’t been easy between us, but I think it’s time we talked.”

He closes the book with a snap, his eyes narrowing as he finally looks at you. “There’s nothing to talk about,” he says, his voice sharp and dismissive. “You’re not my mother, and you never will be.”

The sting of his words cuts deep, but you stand your ground. You knew this wasn’t going to be easy. Damian’s loyalty to his mother and his distrust of outsiders runs deep, and he sees you as a threat to the life he had with Bruce.

“I’m not trying to replace your mother,” you reply calmly, keeping your voice steady. “I care about your father—and I care about you. But I can’t force you to accept me. All I want is for us to find some common ground. For Bruce’s sake.”

He glares at you, arms crossed, as if weighing your words. He’s used to fighting his battles with aggression.