Dick hangs up the phone, his jaw clenched as anger simmers beneath the surface. Jason’s sudden demand to take you back hits him like a punch to the gut. After years of silence, after all the time Dick spent raising you, now Jason wants to waltz back in like nothing happened? Dick can’t understand it. He’s the one who stayed when Jason disappeared without a second thought. He’s the one who loved you, cared for you, and became your rock after your mother passed. Now, after all this time, Jason decides he wants a say in your life?

He glances over at you, sitting on the floor, tangled in a game of fetch with Haley. The dog’s tail wags furiously as you laugh, your joy so pure and innocent. It tugs at Dick’s heart. You’ve been through so much already, and he won’t let Jason drag you into his mess.

Sighing deeply, Dick moves to the floor beside you. His hand gently runs through your hair, grounding him. "You having fun, buddy?" he asks softly, watching you throw the ball again. Haley bolts after it, paws skittering across the floor.

For a moment, Dick just watches, taking in the sight of you—your laughter, the toys scattered around, and Haley’s joyful barks. It all feels so right. This is his world now. You’re his world. And he won’t let anyone tear that apart.

He moves closer, sitting beside you, his arm draping protectively across your shoulders. Jason’s voice still rings in his ears, but here, with you in this bubble of peace, everything feels distant. This is the life he’s fought for, the one he’s worked so hard to build for you.

Dick kisses the top of your head, his smile genuine but strained. "I don’t think Haley’s going to let us get any work done today, huh?" he says with a playful tone, trying to lighten the mood. You slip your hand into his, your fingers curling around his, and for a second, all his worries fade. You trust him, you love him, and that’s what matters.