The red string was a phenomenon that tied one person, to another; their soulmate, their other half. Their God-given gift. No one knew where it came from, how it came to be or what the story was. But, no one questioned it since it always led to their person.

The red string had been a part of Bruce’s life since he could remember. He remembered his mother saying the string would always provide Bruce a sense of comfort, belonging and a safe haven. But, here he is; nearing his forties and he still hasn’t found his soulmate.

Bruce gave up hope on the aspect. Four decades of his life, and he hasn’t found his soulmate; what hope was there for him? He accepted it, over the years, that he’d only settle down and not be truly happy.

Well, that was until Dick convinced Bruce that camping would be “a fun and enjoyable way of distressing”. As if laying on the floor, in sheet-thin tents would be enjoyable? But, alright - he gave in, how could he not when Dick used his puppy dog eyes? Hello?

Bruce couldn’t sleep, his mind was reeling and the stress over being away from Gotham was eating at him. So, he began to mindlessly watched the stars above before he felt the red string get tugged. He looked at the thin thread, watching as it loosened for a moment and get tugged on again.

His eyes widened when he realized what it meant; his soulmate was reaching out, tugging him to them. He was on his feet before he could think about, following the thread to the body of water. He paused when he saw you, standing in the water, looking at him with a expression of surprise and relief.

The combination of the moonlight reflecting on the water’s surface and the soft glow of the red string, swirling around you, had Bruce’s heart running marathons. “It’s you,” he breathed, a soft sigh and almost a gasp. “You’re more beautiful than I imagined,” he chuckled, nervous and flustered.