Chapter Text
It had been 3 days since the text that had made Clark come to his senses and decide he would never respond to Bruce Wayne again . He had been spending his nights doubling down on crime to distract himself but at the moment he found himself sitting on the roof of the highest building in Metropolis listening to the nearest ocean crash into the rocks. He heard Batman scaling the building before the man actually appeared on his left side half-hidden in shadow.
“Kal-el.”
“Batman.” The sight of his friend did put a genuine smile on his face despite his poor mood. The man appeared to be grave and severe, but Clark had learned that Batman’s dry humor was just as funny as Diana’s fables. “Didn’t expect to see you in this neck of the woods.”
“I actually came to see you.”
Clark turned to watch the black silhouette settle against the brick wall, the white eyes of the mask glowing with contrast.
“You haven’t really been yourself. Just making sure this hero business isn’t weighing you down.” The gravelly voice from the shadows said.
Clark looked up into the sky, at the beautiful galaxies strewn across space glittering with stars. From the shadows Bruce’s heart skipped a beat watching Clark highlighted by the night. “The hero business is fine for once. No complaints here.”
Batman said nothing, instead coming to stand directly beside Superman, looking up at the same stars. “Something on your mind?”
“Someone.” Clark answered back with a wry smile. “I’m afraid to confront them.”
“I know the feeling."
Clark real-smiled then, eyes shining even in the low light. “I didn’t know that suit had enough room for feelings.”
Bruce rolled his eyes beneath his mask. “ It doesn’t. I assume you haven’t broken things off.”
“Eavesdropping Bats?” Clark teased.
“I have multiple suspects under surveillance at all times, eavesdropping is a minor offense compared to what I do.” Bruce liked making Clark laugh like this and he allowed a tiny smirk when Clark chanced a look at his face.
“I’ve been avoiding my issues. Avoiding him makes it easier to pretend I’m satisfied.”
Bruce nodded. “You deserve satisfaction Kal. More than the rest of us do.”
They stood in comfortable silence, with Clark deep in thought. When he turned to his side Batman was gone already.
--------------------------------------
Clark had been in the worst mood Lois had seen him in in a long time. He went from smiling into his phone every few minutes to scowling at the tiny thing like it had committed war crimes. He’d smile and laugh along with her, but the second the moment passed that same soft sadness would reach his eyes and a somber look would dull his once-bright features. The flowers on his desk wilted quickly and Lois couldn’t tell if it was from Clark’s mood or the lack of attention. He still bolted when duty called, never one to shirk the power that came with the title of Superman; but it seemed more and more Clark’s passion was crossing the line into a chore.
It was breaking her heart. They had been in their tiny bathroom with the too-loud fan together burning their fingers while curling her hair when she decided now was the time to bring it up.
“I’m not joking when I say that if this doesn’t come out perfect I’m leaving this planet.” Clark fussed, finger-combing an errant curl that he had accidently curled the wrong direction. It bounced back up despite his efforts and the exasperated look on Clark’s face had made her laugh. He half-smiled before refocusing on the next bit of hair, serious expression returning once more. She had reached into her purse hanging on the door and checked the time- 5:21 p.m and the streets of Metropolis were already dark.
“Its the office Christmas party, not the Met Gala. A bad curl here or there won’t break me.” Clark raised the curl into the light, eyebrow cocked knowingly as she cringed. “Okay let's keep that level of bad to a minimum.”
He smiled. “Is it awful that I'm hoping Mike gets horribly drunk like he did last year?”
“Is it awful? Yes. Do I also want that? Absolutely. I doubt his wife’s gonna show this year after that shit. I was scandalized!”
“Lois he fell into a desk and you laughed so hard you almost peed yourself. I had to carry you to the bathroom.”
Lois shrugged, rifling through her make-up bag in search of her red lipstick. “See? I’m a fun drunk. You’re my designated driver!”
“For life.” Clark agreed.
She worried her lip for a second before speaking. “Are you up for it? The party,I mean.”
“ One little ole’ party ain’t gonna kill me, Lo.”
“You just…haven’t been the same since the text.”
Clark met her eyes in the bathroom mirror and hoped he wasn’t as easy to read as usual. She was right; It was hard to go about his day without the anticipation of Bruce’s text but he thought he had managed well. He shrugged, but before he could answer a voice sounded in his head.
Suppressing his powers was second-nature to him now. He no longer crushed door handles and looked into people’s body without meaning too and his life was better because of it (Martha and Johnathon Kent had done right by him, and he was infinitely thankful for their love and patience). The constant and usual chatter of Earth’s inhabitants usually subsided to a white noise only broken by the cries of help that spurred him into action. Which is why when he heard the cries of Bruce Wayne’s driver across the river 12 miles away he froze suddenly, dropping the brush onto the bathroom rug in his shock.
“Clark? Clark, what's wrong?” Lois immediately zeroed in on the hyper focused squint of Clark’s eyes. She followed his eyes out the window in the direction of the bay. She knew that look. He was shifting from Clark Kent to Superman in the few seconds it took him to calculate his plan of attack. “What do you need me to do?”
Clark came back to himself in a split second with a determined look on his face. “Call a taxi, forget the train. Stay safe for me, yeah?” He kissed her forehead as she nodded her agreement.
He was already moving at speeds too fast for her to register as more than a faint blur as he left through the fire escape window, and she silently prayed he stayed safe as well like she always did when he went to save the world.
----------------------------------
“I’m shocked to be frank, Master Wayne. This is a rather big step.” Alfred admitted, handing Bruce his cashmere overcoat and leather gloves.
Bruce chuckled. “I’m afraid I’ve shocked even myself with this one.” He took a last glance in the mirror and raised his arms for Alfred’s approving nod. His outfit was all-black and as discreet as possible. It was funny how often his missions required nothing more than stealth.
“And if Master Clark still avoids you?”
Bruce shrugged in a poor attempt at nonchalance. “Then I’ll resign myself to a Kent-less life and let it go.”
He planned on quietly appearing at the top of Daily Planet’s building and calling Clark up to let him know the truth. That he knew exactly who Clark Kent was when the lights went out and that he craved to know every nook and cranny of Clarks soul from here until the end of time, if it would have him.
Alfred quirked an eyebrow. “Forgive me Master Wayne, I seem to be feeling faint. I imagined you fancied me a fool.”
Bruce laughed. “I know, I know. My impatience has once again been my downfall. I have to make things right by Clark. He means….far more to me than I realized.” He went softer toward the end, head down as he adjusted his sweater sleeves beneath the coat. He never did well with talking about his emotions so openly, but Alfred never judged. “ It's strange how one encounter could change your entire world, isn’t it.?”
“You sound a lot like your father when he met your mother.” Alfred responded fondly. Bruce remembered the way his father would absolutely melt the moment his mother entered a room and couldn’t help the tiny pang of sadness that plagued his heart whenever they were mentioned. He pressed a hand on Alfred's shoulder lovingly, and the older man responded by covering Bruce’s hand with his own. They let a soft moment of silence and sadness fill the room like it always did when Martha and Thomas’s absence was felt.
“I’ll be home before the sun.” Bruce finally said.
“Very good sir.”
They were just exiting the room when the police scanner roared to life. Someone reporting a woman being chased into an alleyway near 15th and Sullivan Street. Sullivan street sounded incredibly familiar, but he couldn’t place it. Something was urging him to suit up and go and after years of training Bruce never mistrusted his intuition.
Alfred, already reading Bruce’s face, left to prepare the bike at the same moment Bruce tore off his coat.
---------------------------------------------
Clark could hear the sick comments the men were making to the woman before he even arrived. She was petrified, whimpering and pleading for someone to help her as one of the men struck her and the rest laughed. Clark could feel his temper flashing white hot in his chest as he allowed himself to crush the asphalt around him as he landed.
The woman was pushed up against the wall with one of the men’s hands fisted in her coils, yanking her head high enough for Clark to see the dark slick of blood pouring from her nose. She was surrounded by 5 men, 2 bordering her body and the other 3 watching from the sidelines with perverted glee. Everyone froze suddenly, eyes trained on the approaching hero.
“S-Su-”
“Let's save the introductions.” Clark’s voice was cold as ice. The men flinched when he spoke.
“This is a little out of your jurisdiction E.T.” The bravest one with a bloody fist piped up from the back after a pregnant pause.
“He’s got clearance.” A gravelly voice from above. The men snapped their heads up at the exact moment the lights from the overhead building were blocked out by a dark figure. There was an attempt at scattering before they realized Clark was blocking the mouth of the alleyway, and they cowered in fear as Batman came floating down to land in the corner , hidden by shadow.
Clark rolled his eyes. He was The Man of Steel capable of literal heat vision but apparently it took Batman’s dramatic entrances to truly strike fear in their hearts. Whatever.
Bruce took one look at Samantha and was already calculating the level of pain each man would endure for laying a finger on her. She was a sweet woman and an amazing mother to a fussy baby boy Bruce had talked with her about a few times here and there at various staff parties and community outreach programs. She didn’t deserve this.
“Are you alright?” He held out his hand and felt the pang of guilt as she instinctively flinched away from it. She paused for a moment, staring at him wearily through her curls before accepting his hand, standing on shaky legs after retrieving her purse from the wet alleyway asphalt. She nodded mutely, shock making her head move jerky and frantic as she put some distance between her and the infamous bat, just in case.
“After you.” Batman extended his hand and waited patiently for her to step ahead of him. The men parted to either side of the alley too paralyzed with fear to do much but cringe away from Batman’s presence as he allowed Samantha to slowly make her way through them and right up to Superman.
She visibly relaxed when she stood beside him, and Clark could hear her heartbeat attempting to slow itself down. She sagged against him, and without hesitation he grabbed his cape and laid it gently over her shoulders. “You’re safe, we’ve got you.” She nodded numbly as she began to cry. When Superman looked up Batman was standing in the middle of the men with a barely-there smile. He was a beauty to watch in action, moving far too gracefully for a man of his brawn but dancing through intricate martial arts techniques that Clark had never seen before nonetheless. He was tempted to sit and watch the crooks get what they deserved, but Samantha’s hiccuped sob beside him was more important than his twisted desire for revenge.
Bruce whispered “I’ll meet you there” so quietly he was sure no other man alive would have been able to hear that, besides him of course. The Bat gave him a curt nod of understanding which Superman returned.. Batman could handle this, of course. The second Clark had walked her away from the alleyway and back out onto the street he heard the sickening crunch of someone’s nose being broken and a strangled moan of pain. Samantha heard it too, and she jumped at the sound.
Clark could fly her home of course, but it seemed like focusing on the ground beneath her feet was what she needed. They walked for a few minutes in silence.
“Are you alright?”
“I’ve been better.” She was dabbing at the blood on her face with the hem of her dress shirt as she spoke.
“I don’t doubt that.” Clark smiled kindly and was rewarded with a small smile back. He glanced down at the WE pin on her collar.
“Wayne Enterprises? As in Bruce Wayne?”
“Yeah. Nothing fancy, though. I chauffeur, run some errands every now and then. Mr.Wayne is a fantastic employer; it’s good money that's for sure.”
She was slowly regaining the grace and poise in her voice Clark had come to expect, much to Clark’s delight. Despite himself, he imagined Bruce with that million-dollar smile at the head of a business table and found it easy to picture.
She stopped walking and peered up at a run-down building with a raggedy black awning. “Here’s home,unfortunately.” Clark smiled reassuringly at her.
“Is saying ‘home is where the heart is’ too cheesy?”
She laughed at that, her teeth a bright contrast against the dried blood on her dark lips.
“It’s true, though. I’m usually spending my nights at Gotham Medical with my baby anyway. He’s got a congenital heart disease. That’s home for now.”
“I’m sorry to hear that, I hope he’s getting the care he deserves. The world is a frightening enough place without the added stress of heartless people.” Clark responded gently, escorting her up the steps and shielding her from the street as she punched in her code.
“And Gotham’s a hub of heartless bastards, unfortunately. Thank you, Superman, truly. Give Batman my best.”
Clark wished her a good night and stood for a moment until he heard her enter her apartment on the 9th floor. He rose slowly to the roof of the building and wasn’t surprised in the slightest that Batman was already there.
“Kal-El. To what do I owe the pleasure?” Bruce greeted from the ledge he perched on.
“Oh ya, know. I was in the neighborhood.” Clark smiled, coming to float beside his friend.
‘How was she?”
Clark sighed heavily, brushing his wild curl out his eye. “Much better than I would've been. I don't know if that's good or bad.”
Bruce felt relieved for the first time since he suited up, and he allowed some of the tension to leave his muscles. The fight had been far too easy and not as satisfying as he hoped it would be. He could still feel the buzz of adrenaline in the back of his brain, muted but never gone when he was Batman.
“You were pretty concerned.”
“Aren’t I always? Earth’s protector and all.”
“More concerned than usual.”
Batman’s ability to sense these things was almost supernatural, and Clark always had to remind himself that the man was simply human. “I’ve met her before, in my other life. She was…kind.”
Bruce nodded. Samantha had delivered Clark to his doorstep and the flowers to the Daily Planet. Clark’s soft expression when he spoke of her made Bruce’s heart swell. How could someone have this much compassion and love in his heart? He couldn’t imagine anyone not immediately finding the man perfect
“She worked for Wayne Enterprises.” Batman stated conversationally.
“Yeah. She’s a driver, she said. With a sick baby; I hope they’ll be okay.”
“Sick?” Bruce couldn’t stop himself.
“Heart disease; poor thing. She has enough on her plate without this nonsense. I’m sure Wayne will be understanding.”
He had no clue this reality is what she faced once she bid him goodbye. Bruce had been wondering why someone earning what Samantha made was still living in the worst neighborhood in Gotham, but it all clicked into place after Clark spoke. She was probably drowning in medical bills and debt, and yet he would have never known if not for Clark.
He looked over at Clark, who was looking out over the city with a subdued expression that did nothing to dull his beautifully strong features. Bruce felt a longing so deep in his chest he forced himself to look away.
“Familiar with Mr.Wayne?” Bruce asked.
Clark’s face turned such a vibrant shade of red Bruce was tempted to pretend he didn’t notice. Instead he cocked his head.
“Barely. I’m sure you’ve met him more times than I have.” Clark mumbled hastily, turning his face into the night air and away from Batman’s no doubt inquisitive expression.
“I’m surprised. He’s a recluse as far as I can tell.”
Clark shrugged. “I guess he has his moments. I’ve got to scram. I’ll see you around?”
Bruce nodded, watching fondly as the flustered man sped off into the dark sky. He’d see him alright.
-----------------------------------------
An hour or so later Clark was just stepping into the lobby of the Daily Planet adjusting his hastily put on dress shirt when he almost mowed Lois down, who was attempting to enter the elevator at the exact moment the doors parted.
“Clark!” She beamed, rounding him up in an air-tight hug. Despite only being 51 minutes late to the party her cheeks were flushed from the alcohol and she was already barefoot. Lois’s infectious joy was hard to deny, and he lifted her if only to hear her surprised squeal.
“I see you’ve drank enough for the both of us, huh?”
She shrugged happily, handing Clark a small plastic cup of eggnog. “ I was racing Mike. Jeez, it's hot. I need some air. Rooftop?’
Clark stepped back inside the elevator, escorting Lois like an old-time gentleman much to her delight. He clicked the top floor and giggled as Lois began to belt out the cheesy elevator music jingle.
They giggled and chatted all the way up until they reached the fire-escape door, which Lois attempted to open unsuccessfully. It took a bit of super-strength to actually open the heavy rusted door, and when he did the freezing night air greeted them.
“Come on Clark.” She was small but fast, and she snatched his hand up and walked purposefully to the massive ac unit across the roof. Soon as they rounded the corner he could see why she was in such a rush.
There was Bruce Wayne, in all his glory . The hand not holding a cup of spiked eggnog was tucked in his overcoat pocket, making him look like some sort of playboy model silhouetted against the glittering lights of Metropolis’s sky line. His dark hair was brushed back away from his handsome face and the first flurries of the night rested gently in his tresses. He looked almost normal when we wasn’t standing in front of million-dollar portraits or decked out in tailored suits. He was just as beautiful as the first time Clark laid eyes on him and he still emanated that quiet power that he was revered for. He smiled sheepishly, looking for the first time in his life, visibly unsure of himself.
“Mr.Wayne-”
“Please, call me Bruce.” He interceded smoothly.
Lois continued delighted. “ Bruce, called your phone while you were out. I told him that the Daily Planet would be honored to have someone as awesome as Bruce-frickin’-Wayne attend their humble office party.” She whispered the next words to Clark only; “And I think a hunk is a really fucking good Christmas Present so score for Lois. Don’t be mad.” (Bruce snickered anyway, because Lois’s drunk whisper was a normal talking voice said behind the backside of her hand.)
“Oh,...Bruce.” Clark wished he didn’t sound so breathless.
“Clark.” Bruce smiled then, that real one with the squint and the dimple and Clark smiled back so quickly he was almost embarrassed.
They stared for a moment too long before Lois was clearing her throat.
“Welllll…I’ll be going now. You crazy kids, be safe up here.” On tip-toes she pulled Clark down to press a scarlet kiss on his cheek before bidding goodbye to her new friend and hurriedly jogging to the exit and out of the cold.
The wind picked up, but Clark didn’t feel anything, even as Bruce pulled his scarf closer to his chin. Bruce took another sip of his drink, staring at Clark over the rim just like he did with the wine glass at dinner. Clark didn’t know what to say. He was still as a statue as every possible dialogue ran across his mind, but what could he possibly say besides the truth? The moments dragged by with a tension so thick Clark imagined it blocking him from stepping any closer to the other man.
After a moment Clark cleared his throat and stood up taller. “I’m sorry for the…delayed response. I’ve had a lot going on recently, with work and the holiday season.”
Bruce nodded amicably. “I know. But believe me,I understand, there's no need for an apology, really. I actually came over to apologize myself.” Clark’s owlish stare made Bruce chuckle fondly before continuing. “I understand that I crossed the line from professional to intimate pretty quickly. I’m a little taken with you, I’ll admit, but I never intended to make you uncomfortable, Clark, and I wanted you to know that.. I’ve been told I’m a bit of bully,and I’ll take that one on the chin.”
As he spoke he was glancing out over the city like meeting Clark’s eyes was another admission.
“Well… should I add that before or after spoiled brat?”
At Clark’s teasing tone Bruce met his eyes and smiled so widely the tension was broken as both men laughed.
“You’re a lot meaner than you look, you know that?” Bruce smiled as Clark walked up to stand beside him.
“You have no idea.” He murmured back. Metropolis’s streets were as busy as always, with cars sliding through the slush and people bustling on the pavement despite the temperatures. Wreaths hung from every lamp-post and shop owners had strung lights around their show windows, giving the city a cozy feel that Clark adored. “You’re much more sentimental than you look.”
“For a select few.”
Clark’s face burned at that, and he could feel Bruce staring at the side of his face as he pushed his glasses up on his nose. That deep cologne was scenting the air around him and all his resolve was crumbling fast.
“Look Bruce, I’m not going to pretend I don’t…like you. But this is a bad idea. For both of us.” Clark said to the buildings far off in the distance.
“I knew you were a classic but that was downright cliche.”
Clark looked at his nonchalance with an incredulous stare. Bruce was still smiling softly at him, unperturbed by Clark’s remark.
“I’m sure you’re not used to being told no.” Clark responded only half-joking.
“ Is this a no?”
Clark paused, watching Bruce hunch his shoulders as a particularly harsh gust of wind rushed through them. Clark suddenly realized he must look very strange standing in freezing temperatures with nothing on but slacks and a dress shirt rolled up to his elbows, not even shivering as snow piled up in his hair. It was even stranger Bruce hadn’t mentioned it. He started rubbing his hands together like they were cold, and Bruce smiled widely at that. He scrunched up his face as he thought, much to Bruce’s delight. “Come here, you’re freezing.”
Clark led Bruce around the corner and behind the largest unit furthest from the door, where the wind was mostly blocked off. It was a little darker here, more secluded despite the fact that they were on a roof in the middle of a city. Bruce leaned flat against the wall and Clark stopped in front of him,closer than associates but not as close as lovers.
“ I’ll take that as a ‘no’ to your ‘no’?” Bruce smiled.
“Take it as I’m a much busier person than it seems and as much as I would love to do whatever this is, I can’t.” Clark conceded, shoving his hands in his pocket and looking up at Clark through his slipping glasses.
Bruce seemed deep in thought. “You like me, huh?”
Clark rolled his eyes despite himself. “You came all the way from Gotham to have your ego stroked?”
“Amongst other things.” Bruce smiled coyly, pretty white teeth flashing in the dark. “You’re not cold.”
Clark’s eyes snapped to his. “Thick skin.”
“Hmmm.” Bruce tilted his jaw up until Clark had no choice but to listen intently. “Do you remember asking me if I ever felt powerless?” Clark nodded, waiting for Bruce to continue. “I’ve been giving that statement some thought since our last meeting. And honestly, I’ve realized that I’ve felt powerless ever since you walked into my life.”
Clark was breathless as Bruce hooked one finger in his belt loop, pulling the taller man closer to him until he couldn’t see anything around him but Clark. He drowned in the smell of rain, the electric blue of Clark’s wide eyes, his dimpled chin. They breathed like that for a moment before Clark placed one arm near Bruce’s head, effectively bracketing the man in their shared space.
Bruce raised his other hand, careful and slow to rest on Clark’s chest. Beneath his fingers Clark was as warm as radiator, heart beating hummingbird-fast as Clark gaped. The air around them felt alive with lightning. Bruce was breathing slower now, eyes flitting between Clark’s lips and his eyes.
“You deserve satisfaction Kal-El. More than the rest of us do.” He finally said gently.
“What?” Clark froze suddenly. He stared into Bruce’s knowing eyes as waves of panic closed his throat tight. A million thoughts flitted through his mind in the few seconds it took him to breathe. He suddenly straightened up, putting a bit of distance between them as his heart dropped to his stomach. Hiis clothes felt too tight, the air pressing down on him and restricting him from doing anything but staring at Bruce through blurred eyes. “H-...How could-”
Bruce didn’t look at all shocked or excited by the revelation. Instead, he carefully watched Clark internally combust with a soft expression. How long had he known? How could he be this calm about the biggest secret in the world? Batman. Those were the last words Batman had said to him only a few hours ago on a rooftop not too different from this one. Batman had growled it just like that and sounded just as sincere.
And here, half-shrouded in the darkness with only a sly smirk on his full lips everything in Clark’s brain clicked. It was him. It was so surreal and shocking Clark barked out a too-loud laugh that was bordering on hysterical. All those late nights at the tower planning the next mission together, the back-and-forth teasing, the team-ups. Batman did not carry that same arrogant swagger in his walk, nor did he flash as many smiles as Bruce did but yes, Clark could now see it clear as day. In the way Bruce asked those investigative questions and the way he sat back in his chair while planning, those perfect lips pursed in thought.
“You look shorter out of costume; has anyone ever told you that?” Bruce teased lightly.
“This…this is crazy.” Clark finally breathed. “ How did you fi-”
“Satellites, trackers, all that highly illegal military grade stuff paired with context clues. I’ve known since before our first date. “ Bruce waved his hand like it wasn’t difficult or important in the slightest. Clark scoffed in disbelief, tension slowly leaving his body as the seconds dragged on. He was confident Batman, and in turn Bruce, would never expose or betray him in any way. All those messages exchanged late into the night, those teasing smiles and rough hands had belonged to a man he had known for months. A man who has never done anything but steer him in the right direction when he needed it. A small wave of relief was mellowing his frantic mind as he watched Bruce settle against the wall again.
“I’m telling Diana.” Clark finally said, running a hand through his wavy hair. Bruce laughed hard, eyes shining despite the dark and extending his hand, which Clark gladly took.
“I’ll gladly take whatever punishment I need too.” He replied.. Clark came to stand in front of him once more, closer than friends with his hands in Bruce’s. “Now..about that busy schedule…”
Clark laughed, heart feeling lighter than it had in days. There wasn’t anyone on the planet who would understand his true self better than the man currently smiling beside him. “Wanna ride?”
Batman wasn’t particularly fond of any flying where he wasn't controlling the wheel,but Bruce would say it was the eggnog and not Clark’s hopeful eyes that made him begrudgingly agree. Clark scooped him up bridal style, delighted in Bruce’s indignant face.He was positive Clark could hear the way his heart was beating, but the other man would never mention it.
“You don’t carry Batman like this.” Bruce grumbled, refusing to meet Clark’s eyes in such a vulnerable position. On the few rare occasions Batman accepted a ride he insisted on holding onto Superman’s arm and dangling the thousands of feet in the air while the man sped to the fight. Clark shrugged, pretending he didn’t understand for a moment.
“It’s a good thing I’m not holding Batman then, isn’t it?” His faux-innocent voice made Bruce smile despite himself. “I didn’t know Bruce Wayne was terrified of heights.”
“I leap from tall buildings every day, Clark.”
“That’s floating, this is flying. ” Bruce rolled his eyes as Clark ascended closer up to the clouds. The air was colder here, but Bruce was too busy staring at the side of Clark’s handsome face to notice he was shivering. Clark noticed, and he began rubbing small circles into Bruce’s side with his thumb without noticing. Beneath them the snowy city looked dream-like in its beauty all decked out in its glittering lights and holiday spirit.
“I’ve missed you.” Bruce said lowly, barely audible over the moaning winds.
He knew Clark heard it by watching the slow rise of blush from his collar to his ears.”I missed Alfred.”
They laughed together as Clark flew them over the bay that separated their two cities and into Gotham. In the distance Wayne Manor stood tall surrounded by a sheet of snow.
“I guess this is officially our second interview then, huh?” Clark chanced a look at Bruce, who was already looking at him.
“The statute of limitations has run out on that second interview Kal. This is a date.”
“Agreed.”
Clark landed them on the porch of Wayne Manor and placed Bruce down at the exact moment Alfred opened the door all bundled up to the cold.
“Master Kent! It’s a pleasure to see you.” Alfred’s kind eyes were shining with mirth, and he hurriedly shook Clark’s hand with an enthusiasm rarely shown. “Another interview then?”
Before Bruce could answer Clark’s exaggerated pretend-whispered answer of “ A date this time around I think.” made Alfred laugh.
“Very good, Sir. A long time overdue.” He beamed at the two of them for a moment before pulling his cap down on his head and allowing them inside. “I’ll be taking my leave now, Master Wayne. If you need me-”
“I’ve got you to myself all year, I think I’ll survive a few days. Enjoy your family, Alfred, and be safe.” He pulled the older man into a hug and walked him to the door, sending the older man off with well wishes to his nieces and sister.
When the door finally shut there was a moment of silence, and Clark suddenly realized the magnitude of what was happening. The first tendrils of panic began seeping into his chest as he awkwardly stood in the foyer near their flowers, watching as Bruce shed his layers to adjust to the warmth of the house. Before Clark could begin second-guessing his next move Bruce was walking in front of him, weaving their fingers together to lead Clark in such a casual way it made Clark smile. It really was this natural for them, wasn’t it? Simplistic and pure enough that Clark almost felt silly worrying.
Bruce led them down beautifully crafted and long corridors to an elevator that led them to the top of the East Wing. Bruce talked softly about some of the art they passed, his soothing bass filling the hall and harmonizing with the wind outside. They eventually arrived at Bruce’s study.
Alfred knew exactly where Bruce would go; a massive fireplace was already bathing the room in its hot glow. A rich chocolate leather couch with a plush patterned throw blanket sat on a massive abstract rug closest to the warmth. A mahogany desk decorated with scattered papers and various books sat before an enormous window on the far side of the room.The entire room felt lived in and homey, unlike the rest of the pristine mansion. It smelled overwhelmingly like Bruce’s scent and mocha. Clark could imagine Bruce hunched over here, doing important work with a scowl on his face.
“What?” Clark didn’t realize he had been smiling until Bruce raised an eyebrow at him suspiciously, making his way to the small wet bar in the corner.
“Nothing this just…feels like you.” Clark admitted, settling down on the couch to watch the flames dance animatedly across the hearth.
He glanced to the side to watch Bruce as he fixed a drink. Bruce raised her arms to return the whiskey to the top shelf, and when his hem rose up to reveal pale skin Clark couldn’t help but blush. The sweater he wore was thick and soft looking, hanging lovingly on his back as he moved with practiced ease and the jeans he wore were tailored just enough to fit him without looking too tight. Clark sat still as a statue drinking in the muscles of his forearms as he poured the whiskey into the glasses. Bruce turned around with a knowing smirk, holding one glass to Clark and settling closely beside him on the couch,. Clark took a sip of the dark amber liquid and let it warm his chest.
“I hope you didn’t waste any of the good stuff on me.” Clark smiled.
“Unfortunately I don’t have anything but good stuff, but next time I’ll grab you a wine cooler.” Bruce laughed. “How’s Cat?”
Clark grinned from ear-to-ear, launching into a story about Cat’s most recent endeavor as Bruce gazed at him adoringly. Clark went from Cat to Lois and from Lois to his parents as they spoke; Bruce talked about his parents and Gotham’s testy political landscape. It was a strange feeling, being able to speak so openly about their other lives with someone outside of their usual circles, but it was a freeing experience they both cherished. They laughed and empathized until the small bottle was gone and Bruce paused to get the fire high again. Clark laid down his glasses as he spoke, realizing how useless they were given present company.
When he came back to settle on the couch, eyes bright and cheeks flushed from alcohol, Clark had moved closer to his spot. Clark slung the throw blanket over Bruce’s shoulders, fixing it on both broad shoulders with a worried furrow in his brain. Before he could pull away Bruce placed a hand on the back of his neck. He paused there for a moment, letting Clark take in the magnitude of what he was implying. Of what he wanted.
Bruce's hand on his neck was warm, and Clark was momentarily shocked by how the softness of the moment was only rivaled by its intensity. Bruce's eyes never left his, and for the first time in his life Clark felt weak. He listened to Bruce's heart beat a mile and minute, and knowing that Bruce was nervous too made him relax a little. Clark parted his lips, an acceptance to the invitation that had been laid before him. He softly placed his hands on Bruce's hips beneath the blanket.
They breathed like that for a second, close like they were dancing. And then Bruce slowly leaned forward, connecting their lips. Clark tasted like vanilla and honey, sweet and thick on his tongue. It was slow at first, and Clark ran his hands through that thick, wavy black hair that had been driving him crazy all night.
It was Clark, to both of their surprise, that took it to the next level. He grabbed Bruce's jaw harder than he intended when he deepened the kiss, but he received nothing but a soft grunt from the other man.
"Clark." Bruce's voice was deep and raspy from kissing. His eyelids fluttered open, shiny lips barely parting as he exhaled heavily. Clark felt drunk. His mind was all over the place and nowhere all at once. Drifting between worlds. Bruce was so warm in his arms, huge and strong and soft all at once. That rich cologne was trapped in his nose and he didn't think he would ever tire of the smell.
Bruce was equally dazed. He can’t recall a time he had ever been this open and unguarded. When he pulled back Clark was lifting Bruce onto his lap like one would move a small cat.
“God, you’re such a show off.” He whispered lovingly, hand coming up to gently caress the side of Clark’s face. Clark leaned into his touch as he leaned them back.
Then Bruce was at his neck, inhaling the smell of ozone that always clung to the other man. He placed slow, open-mouthed kisses to Clark’s neck and smiling at the way it made him shiver against him. His hands made quick work of Clarks button-down shirt until he was touching warm skin and hard muscle. It was addicting, breaking down the strongest man alive with only his teeth and hands and whispered moans.
They made quick work of their shirts, and paused only for a moment to admire each other. The white criss-cross of scars across his skin was a striking comparison to the almost-porcelain surface of Clark’s. Clark hummed his appreciation into Bruce’s mouth, gasping as the other man grinded heavily into him. The kiss was intense, but not so rushed that they couldn’t touch every inch of each other. Bruce only had to growl Clark’s name once before Clark was lifting him, up and up.
It was a dizzying feeling, having someone hold you up like you weighed nothing at all and treat you like something delicate. He had been beaten to the brink of death, had bones shatter against the pavement, had the weight of the world on his shoulders. But here was Clark, laying him gently on the warmed leather couch like he was made of glass, gently kissing him with nothing but passion. He made quick work of Bruce’s pants, sitting back for a second to admire the work of art beneath him before he settled back down on top ofBruce, trapping the smaller man in his warmth.
“Gosh you’re beautiful.” Clark breathed sweetly, smiling wide as Bruce kissed his temple in response. He didn’t notice Bruce’s hands slithering down into his briefs until Bruce was taking him in hand, reveling in the choked off whimper Clark made.
He stroked Clark expertly, taking time to rub his calloused thumb over the sensitive head of Clark’s cock until the man was gently rocking into his fist, moaning into his kiss with abandon. Bruce sat Clark up a bit, taking one of Clark’s larger hands and wrapping it around their joint cocks. He hissed at the sensation of warm skin slick with pre-come, and when Bruce started them on a slow tandem rhythm Clark got to watch Bruce throw his head back and keen deep in his throat. They rocked slow at first attempting to savor every little whimper and moan, but soon the pressure was building in their stomach and they began moving frantically.
Bruce was flushed from his nose to his chest, making the scars there stand out in stark contrast, and Clark had the distant thought that he’d map out every scar and scratch on the human’s body before the end of the week. Bruce flicked his wrist viciously, leaving Clark gasping for air.
“Br-Bruce, fuck.” Hearing Clark curse was as shocking as it was hot, and with one more stroke Bruce was coming, gripping Clark’s biceps so hard he would've broken someone else’s arm. He threw his head back as he came, biting his lip so hard he almost drew blood. Watching him fall apart Clark followed shortly after, using Bruce’s come to rub them twice more before he was gasping into Bruce’s hair, hot spurts of come painting Bruce’s abs to mingle with his own.
Clark collapsed on top of Bruce, limbs feeling like warm jelly as the aftershocks gave him an endorphin-high that almost knocked him out. Bruce was just as bad shape beneath him, chest heaving as he bright a hand up to soothingly run a hand through Clark’s hair.
After a long moment Clark sat up to peer down at Bruce, who turned a sleepy smile on him that made his heart flutter.
“One hit wonder kind of guy, huh?” Clark teased.
Bruce rolled his eyes, smiling despite it. “ We can’t all be sun-powered aliens.” Clark chuckled as he carefully rearranged them on the couch, taking the blanket and flinging it around them both.
“This was a much better night than I anticipated.” Clark said quietly, wrapping one heavy arm around Bruce’s midsection. He buried his face in raven hair and smelt lavender and oats. “I expected to be picking my coworkers up off the ground and calling taxis all night.”
Bruce laughed. “And instead you drank up all my whiskey and got to second base.”
“I doubt this is the first time that’s happened to you.”
“This time is much different,” Bruce mumbled.. “Usually Alfred would already be showing them out.” Clark’s surprised laugh was the last thing the room heard before the two men watched the fire with drooping eyes, content to let sleep have its way with them as the storm persisted outside.
-------------------------------------------
The rays of the sun was usually enough for Clark to sleep every few days, but with the intense snow and physical night he had, Clark had been sleeping deeper than he ever had. Instead of Cat’s yowling the only thing that woke him up was the doorbell’s grand toll. He sat up groggily, wincing at the onslaught of a billion noises at once before his brain pushed it into a dull white noise in the back of his head. The gray winter sky was streaming in through the windows, highlighting the gold in the book spines and paintings. The blanket was wrapped around his waist, the fire was nothing but ash, and Bruce was gone.
He would’ve been hurt if he didn’t smell breakfast already cooking and dark-roast coffee being brewed. He smiled, standing up to stretch his body as the doorbell sounded again. He couldn’t believe he was here, naked as the day he was born, in Wayne Manor. Across the mansion the bell rang out again and he heard Bruce curse and drop his spatula He bent down to grab his pants, only for a gorgeous navy blue silk robe laid out on the arm of the chair to catch his attention. He smiled down at it, brushing his fingertips against its soft material as he imagined Bruce picking it out just for him. The thought of Bruce energized him, and he slung the robe on quickly, moving just a tad bit faster than a human to get downstairs and greet his lover.
Bruce had been downstairs, messily pouring more batter into the waffle maker when the doorbell rung. Who the hell could that be this early? (It was going on1 p.m, but still.) He shrugged, turning his attention to the sausages in the pan in front of him; Allfred would get it. He hoped it didn’t wake Clark up, though. The giant man had looked charming, drooling onto his napa leather couch, looking like a breathing marble greek god. Bruce smiled fondly until the doorbell rang again. He was just turning the fire down when it hit him-Alfred wasn’t here. He hurriedly cut the oven off, jogging up to the door cursing up a storm.
Clark reached the top of the steps at the exact moment the door opened. There was Samantha, all bundled up in a pink coat with matching scarf and mittens. She smiled widely and Clark was delighted to see that she looked a million times better than she did yesterday. In her hands was a covered dish.
“Miss Dixon!” He stepped aside and hurried her in and out of the cold. “You know you’re off for your holiday week, right?”
She smiled shyly, ducking her head down. Despite his best efforts his employees were always incredibly nervous around him, even long-timers like Samantha. He couldn’t blame them, there were vicious rumors about him out there. She was braver than most though, and she lifted her head and looked him in the eyes, much to Bruce’s amusement.
“I know. I wanted to thank you in person.”
Clark froze where he was, mind racing. How could Samantha possibly know that Bruce had been involved in saving her from those thugs in the alleyway? Bruce’s body language didn’t change at all, though, so Clark paused.
“I found out earlier this morning when I called the hospital to pay. You don’t understand-” She was getting teary-eyed and choked up on her words,but she persisted. “You don’t understand what this means to me. He’s my whole world,Mr.Wayne.”
Bruce smiled softly, almost embarrassed as he awkwardly placed a gentle hand on her shoulder as she wiped her face. “ I couldn’t think of anyone who deserved it more. Really, think nothing of it.”
She took a second to compose herself. “I uh…I made this for you. I know Alfred’s gone home for the week and he told us he feared you’d burn down Wayne Manor in his absence.” Clark snickered where he was peeking. “ It’s just lasagna, but it’s a family recipe.”
Bruce smiled, accepting the warm pan with a gracious bow. “Thank you, this is too kind.”
“I’ll never be able to thank you enough.” She smiled warmly, making her way to the door and pausing a moment before stepping out. “Superman told you, didn’t he?”
Bruce smiled. “Yeah, he did.”
“They weren’t joking when they said you had friends in high places. Well, you’re just as super as he is. Have a happy holiday, Mr.Wayne.” She smiled, waving goodbye and jogging back to her car.
Bruce stood in the doorway, letting the cold wind nip at his ankles until she safely pulled out of the long winding driveway. He closed the door with a shiver and without turning around “Good morning Kal. Eavesdrop, much?”
Clark laughed and threw his hands up, hopping the banister and floating down to land directly beside Bruce.
Bruce rolled his eyes. “You know, my family paid good money for those steps.” He teased, allowing Clark to pull him backwards until he was flush against his chest.He laid his head back on Clark’s shoulder, humming happily as Clark bent down to press a chaste kiss to his temple.
“You paid her son’s hospital bills?”
Bruce shrugged, warmth flooding back into his body from the human radiator wrapped around him.
.
“You’re amazing.”
Clark breathed it like he was praying, and Bruce’s love for him grew impossibly deeper.
It wasn’t until they were seated at the breakfast table that Bruce realized he could genuinely do this forever. Clark had finally answered Lois’s video call with a dopey smile on his face when he reached a hand out and pulled Bruce’s legs off the adjacent chair and into his lap as naturally as one breathes. Bruce had stared at him, but Clark didn’t even notice, too busy explaining why exactly he didn’t come back down to the party, where he got the robe from, and a million other questions. Clark was the ocean, beautiful and dangerous, and Bruce very much felt like the humble shore, basking in its glory and accepting its sweet kisses with every wave. He was getting much more sentimental than he would’ve liked, but when Clark turned the camera around with an apologetic smile all Bruce could do was melt, reaching out to take the phone and greet Lois. He had the sneaking suspicion Clark’s powers included the power of persuasion, but he wasn’t complaining in the slightest bit as the man stood up to refill Bruce’s coffee. He’s sure he’ll survive.