Gala events filled with snobs had never been her idea of fun.

And it only got worse when she had to stay glued to Tim Drake’s side, offering polite smiles and sweet words that tasted like boredom.

Bruce, of course, had called it a brilliant plan. Blend in. Look harmless. Catch the villain planning to strike during the gala. And apparently, the best disguise in Gotham was pretending to be Tim Drake’s girlfriend for half the night.

So there she stood in a beautiful dress, beside him in a tailored suit. She didn’t allow herself to think about how unfairly good he looked in it.

Tim’s arm wrapped around her waist with easy familiarity. He handed her a glass of champagne, then took one for himself, turning to greet a wealthy acquaintance of Bruce. The man laughed warmly, commenting on what an adorable couple they made.

She lifted the glass to her lips, smile fixed in place.

If she drank enough, maybe Tim’s arm around her wouldn’t feel quite so distracting.

Or so dangerously comfortable.