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The city of Gotham was like a dark, sprawling labyrinth of looming buildings, alleyways, and streets that seemed to constantly hum with unease. For Danny, it was a strange place—far removed from the quiet town of Amity Park. His family had moved here for work, and although his parents were busy attending their research seminar, Danny had a little more freedom than usual. It was his first day walking home from school, and Gotham felt… overwhelming.

As he rounded the corner of a particularly grimy street, he noticed a small figure bent over a trash can. Danny paused, his eyes narrowing slightly. The boy was rifling through the garbage with practiced hands, pulling out scraps of food and shoving them into his mouth.

Danny blinked, his stomach giving a small growl in sympathy. It had been a long day, and he was hungry too. But that wasn’t what caught his attention. There was something in the way the boy moved, with a caution that suggested he was used to being overlooked or ignored.

Curiosity tugged at him.

He approached cautiously, the wrap of his lunchbox clutched tightly in his hands. “Hey!” he called, unsure of how to start a conversation. The boy froze, then turned quickly, eyes wide with suspicion.

“What do you want?” he asked, his voice sharp and defensive. He looked no older than Danny, with ragged clothes and a layer of dirt that seemed permanently etched into his skin.

Danny stepped back a little, raising his hands in a peaceful gesture. “Uh, I just saw you digging through the trash, and... I have extra food if you’re hungry,” he said, offering the sandwich wrapped in wax paper. “My mom makes way too much food for me anyway.”

The boy eyed him warily, his small hands tightening around the strap of his backpack. “Why would you give this to me?” His voice was flat, guarded. “What’s your game?”

Danny tilted his head, perplexed. “No game,” he said, shrugging. “You looked hungry, and… I guess everyone deserves a friend.” He smiled, hoping the boy would understand.

The other kid blinked, then glanced back at the food. After a long pause, he finally took the sandwich, but his face was still set in a frown. “Don’t expect anything in return,” he muttered, unwrapping it and taking a cautious bite.

Danny grinned. “Don’t need anything. Just don’t let it go to waste, alright?” He turned to leave but paused, glancing back. “I’m Danny, by the way. What’s your name?”

The boy hesitated for a second, then muttered, “Jason.”

Danny nodded, a sense of quiet satisfaction blooming in his chest as he continued his walk home. He hadn’t expected anything to come of it, but something told him he’d see Jason again.

《    》

As days passed, Danny found himself gravitating toward the same grimy street after school. The unease of Gotham seemed to swallow him every time he walked its darkened paths, but Jason was like a strange, unspoken constant in his daily routine. It was as though they had formed an odd little truce, something unsaid but understood.

One afternoon, Danny rounded the corner again and spotted Jason sitting on the stoop of the same crumbling building. This time, however, he wasn’t staring off into the distance; he was tapping his foot impatiently, as though waiting for something—or someone.

Danny raised an eyebrow and approached with a casual, “You waitin’ for the bus or something?”

Jason’s head snapped up at the sound of Danny’s voice. He looked momentarily surprised, but quickly masked it with a defensive scowl. “No, just… tired of sitting around.” He glanced at Danny, his eyes flicking briefly to the ground. “What’s up?” But Danny could tell he wasn’t as hostile as before. His guard was still up, but it was lower now.

Danny shrugged. “Not much, just felt like walking around. Gotham’s kind of a maze, though. Hard to figure out where everything is.”

Jason didn’t answer right away. Instead, he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and gave Danny a skeptical look. “You’re not from around here, are you?”

Danny grinned. “Yeah, you could say I’m new in town. Amity Park, actually. Ever heard of it?”

Jason scoffed lightly. “You’ve got to be kidding. No one ever gets out of here unless they get dragged out.” He shook his head, seemingly lost in thought for a moment before muttering, “Lucky you, I guess.”

Danny frowned, sensing the bitterness in his voice. “It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, if you think that’s what Amity Park is like,” he said, his tone softening. “It’s just... different, I guess.”

Jason gave a small, tight-lipped smile—almost amused, but not quite. “Yeah, well, Gotham’s got its own way of showing people that life isn’t fair.”

Danny leaned against the wall next to Jason, folding his arms. “Guess that’s the fun of it, huh? If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.”

Jason chuckled darkly, shaking his head. “Yeah, something like that. But making it doesn’t always mean coming out on top.”

Danny’s expression softened, understanding something deeper in Jason’s words. “Yeah, I get that.” 

Jason made a sound of acknowledgment, but then, seemingly out of nowhere, he asked, “How old are you, anyway?”

Danny blinked, caught off guard by the question. “Uh, ten,” he replied with a grin, scratching the back of his neck. “Why?”

Jason stared at him for a beat, his brow furrowing in disbelief. “Wait—what?” His voice was tinged with shock, his gaze narrowing as if trying to piece together some sort of puzzle. “You’re older than me?”

Danny couldn’t help but laugh, the sound escaping more easily than he expected. “Yeah, I know, I look like I’m five, but I’m actually ten.” He threw a teasing smirk Jason’s way. “Is that so hard to believe?”

Jason opened his mouth, then closed it, looking flabbergasted. “I thought you were younger than me, man. You look like you could still be in kindergarten.”

Danny grinned wider, enjoying the playful jab. “I’ll take that as a compliment,” he said with a wink.

Jason let out a short, annoyed exhale. “Okay, whatever.” He shifted uncomfortably, eyes darting down to his hands, before he mumbled, “How old am I? I’m... I’m...”

Danny tilted his head, eyebrow raised. “What? You’re gonna make me guess or what?”

Jason’s cheeks turned a faint shade of pink. He glanced away, mumbling under his breath, “I’m seven, alright?”

Danny blinked, processing the words before a burst of laughter escaped his lips. “Seven?!” He grinned, unable to stop himself. “That’s it? You’re like, half my height! No wonder you look so... small. Did you miss the growth spurt or something?”

Jason’s face darkened, but he couldn’t entirely suppress the small, defensive smirk that tugged at the corner of his lips. “I’m not that short,” he muttered, crossing his arms over his chest, trying to act tough.

“Oh, you’re definitely that short,” Danny teased, now fully in a playful mood. He took a step back, looking Jason up and down. “Seriously though, I can barely reach your shoulder. I thought you were like... a toddler trying to act all grown up or something.”

Jason scowled, clearly embarrassed but still trying to hold his ground. “Shut up, man. You’re ten, and you’re making fun of a seven-year-old? How lame is that?”

Danny shrugged nonchalantly, a grin never leaving his face. “I’m just pointing out the obvious, man. You’re tiny.”

Jason grumbled under his breath, his usual gruffness returning, but there was a touch of amusement hiding behind his irritation. “Whatever. You won’t be laughing when I get bigger.”

Danny held up his hands in mock surrender, still smiling. “Alright, alright. You’ll catch up eventually, I’m sure. Just don’t let me catch you in a growth spurt before I do.”

Jason rolled his eyes, though there was a flicker of something warmer beneath his tough exterior. “Yeah, yeah. Maybe you’ll finally catch up to me when you turn eighteen.”

Danny grinned even wider. “I’ll be sure to leave you behind in the dust when I do. I’ve got my eye on the prize.”

Jason gave him a sideways glance. “You’re so annoying, you know that?”

Danny chuckled, finally letting up on the teasing. “I know, but you’re fun to mess with.” He started to turn, glancing back over his shoulder. “Don’t forget to stay out of trouble, alright?”

Jason’s voice followed him as he began walking away. “Hey, just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can talk down to me!”

Danny turned back and gave a sly grin. “I’m only messing with you, short stuff,” he called out, winking. “Catch you later!”

Jason huffed, but the smile tugging at the corners of his mouth betrayed him as he watched Danny leave. There was something strangely satisfying about the banter between them—like a quiet understanding had formed between the two of them.

《    》

A few days after their last encounter, Danny found himself walking the same grimy street again. Gotham was beginning to feel like a place he could navigate, but each corner still held surprises. As he rounded the corner, he spotted Jason sitting on the stoop of the same building, his usual scowl in place. But today, something was different. Jason wasn’t staring off into the distance or fidgeting with random objects. Instead, he had a small, tattered book in his hands, and he was flipping through the pages with an air of frustration.

Danny’s curiosity piqued as he walked closer. “Hey, what’s up with the book?” he called, trying to sound casual but with a hint of concern.

Jason jumped, startled, then shot Danny a glare. “Nothing, alright?” He quickly shoved the book into his backpack, as if trying to hide it.

Danny raised an eyebrow. “Whoa, you don’t have to hide it. It’s just a book, man. No big deal.”

Jason’s face turned slightly red, but he didn’t say anything for a long moment. Finally, he let out a sigh, his voice barely above a whisper. “I can’t read it,” he muttered, looking away in embarrassment.

Danny blinked in surprise. “Wait, what? You can’t read?”

Jason’s eyes flickered toward him, and for the first time, Danny saw something like shame in his expression. “Yeah, I can’t,” he mumbled, kicking at a loose stone on the ground. “I never really had the chance to learn. Doesn’t matter anyway. It’s not like I’ll ever need to.”

Danny stood still, processing this new piece of information. He knew Gotham was a rough place, but he hadn’t expected something like this. A part of him wanted to walk away—he wasn’t really a teacher, and he had his own problems to deal with—but something else stopped him. A feeling that maybe, just maybe, he could help Jason with this. It seemed so small, but to Jason, it was probably a huge thing.

“Why didn’t you say something before?” Danny asked, his tone soft but firm. “I can teach you, you know.”

Jason looked at him, disbelief clear in his eyes. “What? You think I’m gonna just sit here and let you teach me how to read? Like, it’s that easy?”

Danny shrugged. “Sure, why not? It’s not like I’ve got a ton of homework or anything. And if you’re gonna be stuck with a book, you might as well learn how to read it.”

Jason’s expression softened for a moment, and then he rolled his eyes, as if trying to brush it off. “Yeah, right. Like, who’d wanna waste their time teaching me?”

Danny sat down next to him on the stoop, crossing his arms. “I would,” he said simply. “I mean, if you’re serious about learning. But if you’d rather just give up, I can leave you to it. Your choice.”

Jason hesitated, clearly torn between pride and something deeper, some need that was hard for him to voice. Finally, he muttered, “I guess it wouldn’t hurt.”

Danny grinned. “Great. Alright, let’s start with something simple. Show me the book.”

Jason reluctantly pulled the book back out of his bag. It was a basic reader, nothing fancy—just a few sentences per page, with simple words that seemed to challenge him more than they should have. Danny flipped to the first page and pointed to the first word. “Okay, let’s start here. What does this say?”

Jason frowned at the word. “I… I don’t know.”

Danny leaned closer. “Alright, no big deal. We’ll break it down. This word says ‘the.’ Can you say that? ‘The.’”

Jason repeated the word quietly, but his voice lacked conviction. “The…”

“Good! Now, let’s try the next word.” Danny pointed to the next one, and they went through it slowly, step by step. With patience and a lot of repetition, they made their way through the first few pages. Danny could feel the frustration building in Jason, but he refused to rush him.

“How are you doing?” Danny asked after a while, watching Jason as he struggled with the next set of words.

Jason sighed, rubbing his temples. “I’m slow. You probably think I’m dumb.”

Danny shook his head quickly. “No, not at all. You’re just… learning at your own pace. Everyone learns differently. I was kind of the same when I first started reading.” He smiled softly, trying to ease Jason’s tension. “You’re doing fine. Trust me.”

Jason looked at him, eyes flicking between the book and Danny’s face. For a moment, he looked like he wanted to argue, but instead, he just nodded.

They worked through the book for nearly an hour, Danny patiently guiding Jason through each word. When they reached the end of the first chapter, Jason leaned back against the stoop, his eyes wide in disbelief.

“I actually did it,” he said, sounding more surprised than proud. “I actually read the whole thing.”

Danny grinned. “See? I told you. You just needed to stick with it.”

Jason shook his head, still in disbelief. “I never thought I’d be able to do that. I… I didn’t even know where to start.”

Danny’s smile softened. “Everyone has to start somewhere. Now you just gotta keep going. Want to try another chapter?”

Jason glanced at the book, then at Danny. For the first time, Danny saw something like hope flicker in Jason’s eyes. “Yeah. I think I could do that.”

Danny patted him on the back. “That’s the spirit. And hey, if you ever need help, I’m around. We’ll get you reading like a pro.”

Jason looked at him, his usual gruffness giving way to something that looked like gratitude. “Thanks, Fenton. I… I didn’t think you’d actually help me.”

Danny shrugged. “It’s what friends do, right? Help each other out.”

Jason’s gaze softened, just for a moment, before he quickly looked away. “Yeah, I guess.”

Danny gave him a playful shove. “Alright, let’s get to that next chapter. I’m not letting you off the hook that easy.”

Jason smirked, but it wasn’t his usual defensive smirk. “Alright, alright. Let’s do this, Fenton.”

And so, for the first time, they dove into the book together, not just teacher and student, but two people building something that had never existed before—an unexpected friendship, formed one word at a time.

《    》

Danny had been hanging around Gotham for a few months now, getting used to its strange, dark vibe. It was one of those places where you never quite felt safe, but it also had a way of making you feel like you had to survive, even if you didn’t really know why. His routine was starting to settle: school, exploring the city, meeting up with Jason, the usual. They’d started talking more lately, and Danny had come to realize just how much of a loner Jason was. The kid didn’t talk much about his past, but Danny was getting used to the little signs: the way Jason would avoid certain topics, the small flicker of pain in his eyes when he saw a birthday card in a shop window, or when someone mentioned family.

It was an early Saturday when it happened. Danny had been walking to the park, when he bumped into Jason, who was sitting on a bench, staring at the ground with his usual scowl.

“Hey, what’s up?” Danny greeted, taking a seat beside him. He’d been getting more comfortable with the kid, and he figured a little casual banter couldn’t hurt.

“Nothing. Just... thinking,” Jason muttered, not looking at Danny.

Danny raised an eyebrow. “Thinking about what? The fact that you still can’t read?”

Jason shot him a glare. “Shut up, Fenton,” he grumbled, but there was no real heat in his words. They had developed a weird sort of rapport over the last few weeks, but Jason still liked to act tough.

Danny smirked, but his smile faded when he noticed something strange. Jason wasn’t his usual, gruff self. He seemed... quieter. Like there was something on his mind. It didn’t take long for Danny’s curiosity to get the better of him.

“So, anything exciting coming up? Any big plans?” Danny asked, casually throwing the question out there, trying to keep the tone light.

Jason shifted uncomfortably, staring at his shoes. “Nah, nothing really.” He scratched the back of his neck awkwardly, then mumbled, “It’s... it’s my birthday soon, that’s all.”

Danny blinked, his mind trying to process the sudden information. “Wait, your birthday?” He’d never heard Jason mention anything about it before. It seemed like just another day to him, the way Jason had always acted.

Jason shrugged, pulling his jacket tighter around himself like it could protect him from whatever was lurking beneath his words. “Yeah, whatever. It’s no big deal.”

Danny’s brows furrowed as he sat up straighter. “Dude, you can’t just brush that off! Birthdays are important. Everyone deserves a party.” He watched Jason’s expression closely, trying to gauge what kind of reaction he would get.

Jason’s face immediately hardened. “I’m fine, Fenton. I don’t need anything. I don’t care about that stuff.”

Danny knew better than to press too hard. Jason was one of those kids who never asked for anything, and in a way, that made it more obvious that he’d probably never had anything to celebrate his birthday. It was clear from the way Jason shut down the conversation.

But Danny didn’t let it go. Over the next few weeks, a plan began to form in his head. He didn’t have much money, but he had enough to make something happen. He started saving up a little each week, cutting back on unnecessary expenses—no snacks from the vending machine. Little by little, he managed to put aside a decent amount of cash. He wasn’t sure if Jason would even want a party, but he wasn’t about to let the kid go another birthday without at least trying.

On the day of Jason’s birthday, Danny showed up at the usual spot, the old stoop where they always hung out. This time, though, he had something different in his hands: a small, crinkled party bag and a cake he had bought from the corner store. It wasn’t much, but it was enough. He’d even managed to scrounge up a couple of streamers and some cheap balloons from a dollar store. Nothing fancy, just enough to make the day feel... special.

Jason looked up when he saw Danny approaching, a slight confusion crossing his face when he saw the cake and the bag. “What is this?” he asked, clearly wary.

Danny grinned wide, holding up the cake like it was the best thing in the world. “Surprise, birthday boy!” he said, his voice full of excitement. “I know you didn’t want to make a big deal out of it, but I did. You deserve at least one decent birthday, right?”

Jason’s expression shifted in an instant, from the usual guarded scowl to something more confused and... vulnerable. He blinked rapidly, staring at the cake and the bag, unsure what to do with it.

“What’s all this?” he asked again, his voice cracking a little.

Danny chuckled, stepping forward and placing the cake on the stoop. “It’s a birthday party, Jason. You know, cake, balloons, and, uh, not much else, but hey—at least we’re celebrating you today.”

Jason stood frozen for a moment, his usual tough exterior slipping just slightly. “You didn’t have to do this, man,” he muttered, his voice low, as if afraid someone might hear the crack in his composure.

“Yeah, I did,” Danny shot back, his voice full of sincerity. “Everyone deserves a birthday, dude. And I’m not letting you go through this day without something.”

Jason’s jaw clenched, but his eyes were starting to betray him. They were wide, and for a moment, it looked like he might cry. He quickly wiped at his face, trying to act like it was no big deal. “I’m fine. Don’t need your pity, Fenton.”

Danny shook his head, crossing his arms. “It’s not pity, dude. I’m your friend. And I’m here to make sure this birthday isn’t just another normal day for you.” He raised an eyebrow, giving Jason a teasing look. “Now, let’s cut the cake before it melts. You’ve gotta at least pretend to enjoy this, alright?”

Jason hesitated, clearly torn. For a moment, he didn’t know how to react. Finally, he sighed, trying to act tough again, but there was no hiding the warmth that had spread through his chest. “Alright, whatever. Just don’t think you can get away with making me all sappy or something.” He crossed his arms, but the faintest smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

Danny laughed, walking over to him and handing him a slice of cake. “Who, me? Nah. But you are getting a birthday wish, so make it good.”

Jason narrowed his eyes but looked at the cake and then at Danny, the smallest glimmer of something like gratitude flashing in his eyes. “You know, you’re the weirdest friend I’ve ever had.”

Danny shrugged, grinning. “What can I say? I’m a weird guy. But you’re stuck with me now.”

Jason smirked, trying to push down the unexpected emotion he felt bubbling up. “Yeah, well, don’t get all mushy on me, alright?”

But even as he said the words, there was no mistaking the slight tremble in his voice, the crack in his tough-guy act that Danny had seen so many times before but never pushed. He wasn’t going to force Jason to open up, not today, but for once, the kid wasn’t alone on his birthday.

And that was enough.

《    》

It was another ordinary evening for Danny Fenton—well, as ordinary as things got with his family in Gotham. His parents had been deeply involved in their latest research, as usual, and Danny had taken to wandering the streets, hanging out with Jason whenever he could. But this particular evening, something was different.

Danny was sitting in the living room, absentmindedly flipping through a comic book, when his mom, Maddy, suddenly walked in. She smiled brightly, but there was something else in her eyes—a kind of eagerness that Danny recognized all too well.

“Danny,” she began, practically bouncing on her heels, “I’ve been thinking. You’ve mentioned that boy, Jason, right? The one you’ve been spending so much time with? Why don’t you invite him over for dinner tonight?”

Danny froze, his mind immediately going into overdrive. “Mom, I don’t know… Jason's not really into the whole 'dinner with strangers' thing. I mean, he’s not exactly, uh, used to normal family stuff,” Danny said quickly, hoping his mom would drop the idea.

Maddy’s expression didn’t waver. “Nonsense. He’s your friend, Danny, and you know what? We’d love to meet him! You’ve been talking about him for weeks now, and I think it would be good for him to feel... welcomed.”

Danny tried to deflect. “He’s fine, really. He doesn’t need—”

Before he could finish his sentence, his sister, Jazz, appeared in the doorway, overhearing the conversation. She had that knowing, look-at-Danny’s-face kind of expression. “What’s this about Jason coming over for dinner?” Jazz asked with a raised eyebrow, her arms crossed as she leaned against the doorframe.

Danny groaned inwardly. “Jazz, I don’t think that’s a good idea. He’s... complicated.”

Jazz, always the voice of reason, tilted her head. “But he’s your friend, right? If you care about him, and he’s in need of some stability, why not? It’s just dinner, Danny. Besides, I think it could be really good for him.”

Danny sighed, slumping back into the couch. “I’m not so sure he’d even show up. He’s not the type of guy who just walks into someone’s house without being weirded out.”

Jazz stepped further into the room. “You won’t know unless you ask him. And I don’t think it’s going to hurt, especially if it means giving him a little support. You’ve been helping him out for a while now.”

Danny groaned, sinking his face into his hands. "Yeah, I know. But... he doesn't like feeling like some charity case." He looked up at Jazz, desperation in his eyes. "Please, just let this go. It's not a good idea."

But Maddy wasn’t about to let it go that easily. "It’s settled then! You’ll invite him over, and we’ll make sure he knows he’s welcome here." She was already turning toward the kitchen to start preparing.

Danny had no choice. With his mom and Jazz pushing him so hard, there was no way he was getting out of this one.

Later that evening, Danny found himself standing on the cracked sidewalk outside Jason’s usual spot. He hadn’t exactly known how to ask, but he was determined to at least try. His hands shoved deep in his pockets, he walked up to Jason, who was leaning against a building, looking as unbothered as always.

“Hey, uh, Jason,” Danny started awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. “So, my mom... wants you to come over for dinner tonight. She’s been asking about you a lot. It’s just... dinner, man. Nothing weird.”

Jason shot him a suspicious look. “Dinner? At your place? What, you think I’m some charity case or something?”

Danny shook his head quickly. “No! No, that’s not it. It’s just that... well, my mom really wants to meet you. And Jazz thinks it’ll be good for you.” He hesitated, then added, “We’re not asking you to do anything crazy. Just, you know, eat and hang out. You’ve got nothing to lose.”

Jason stared at him for a long moment. “Fine,” he muttered after a beat. “But I’m not dressing up or whatever. I’m not some... thing to be shown off.”

Danny grinned. “No one’s asking you to. Just... don’t worry about it.”

Jason rolled his eyes but reluctantly agreed. “Whatever, I’ll be there.”

《    》

A few hours later, Jason showed up at the Fenton household, looking out of place. He wasn’t wearing his usual ragged clothes, but that only made him stand out more. Instead, he wore an ill-fitting, faded shirt he’d stolen from a nearby store. It wasn’t the first time he’d done something like that, but today, it felt different. He felt like a fraud, like he didn’t belong, especially when he looked at the neat, well-kept house and saw the warm family atmosphere.

When he knocked, Maddy answered the door with a huge smile. "Jason, come in! We’re so happy you could join us!"

Jason hesitated for a moment, standing awkwardly at the door. “Uh, thanks.” He stepped inside, feeling like a fish out of water.

As soon as he walked in, Maddy raised an eyebrow, noticing the way Jason was dressed. She didn’t say anything immediately, but she did give him a soft smile. “You know, Jason, it’s not about what you wear here. As long as you treat our Danny like he’s family, that’s what matters most.”

Jason shifted on his feet, not sure how to respond to that. His instinct was to brush it off, but he found himself strangely comforted by the words.

Maddy led him to the dining room, where Jack and Jazz were already seated, setting the table. Jack looked up with a wide grin. “Ah! Our guest of honor! J-man, welcome! We’re glad to have you.” He says, giving Jason a hug, making the boy feel awkward. He gestured to the seat next to Danny.

Jason slowly made his way over and sat down, unsure of where to put his hands. He suddenly felt more conscious of himself than ever before. This wasn’t his kind of thing—dinner with a family that actually seemed happy to be together.

Danny, noticing Jason’s discomfort, tried to reassure him. “Don’t worry, man, we’re not gonna bite.” He nudged him lightly, but Jason’s eyes were distant, his expression hard.

As the evening went on, the Fenton's were kind and welcoming, asking Jason questions about his life, his hobbies, and even about Gotham. But every time they asked him a personal question, Jason’s gaze would falter. He wasn’t used to this kind of attention.

It was when Maddy asked, “So, Jason, what was it like growing up? What about your family?” that Jason’s carefully guarded mask finally cracked.

Jason swallowed hard before answering, his voice tight. “I don’t know. My mom, Sheila, she... she had an addiction. She left me with my dad when I was really young. He wasn’t exactly a good guy. He was... abusive. A criminal. My mom... she wasn’t around much after that. And then my dad... he went to jail when I was nine.” Jason’s hands tightened into fists on the table. “I had to figure out how to survive by myself after that. I had no one.”

Jack’s face softened. “That’s rough, kid. But you’re here now, and that’s what matters.”

For the first time, Jason felt something twist inside him. He didn’t have to hide anymore. He wasn’t alone.

Jack suddenly stood and clapped Jason on the back, causing him to tense up. “You’re one of us now, kid. One of the Fenton's.” His voice was warm, welcoming, and Jason’s resolve finally shattered.

Tears welled up in Jason’s eyes, and he quickly wiped them away, trying to stay composed. But Danny, sensing what Jason needed, wrapped an arm around his shoulders and gave him a squeeze. Jazz and Maddy joined in, offering him a hug, their presence gentle but unrelenting.

Jason, unable to hold it back any longer, let the tears fall. “I... I didn’t think anyone could care about me,” he whispered hoarsely.

“You’re part of the family now, Jason,” Danny said softly, his voice full of warmth. “No one’s ever gonna leave you behind again.”

Jason couldn’t speak. For the first time in a long time, he felt what it was like to have a family—a real family. And it was something he’d never thought he deserved. But as he was enveloped in their embrace, he realized maybe, just maybe, he was wrong.

《    》

A year had passed since Danny and Jason had first met, and the bond between them had only grown stronger. However, that bond was now being tested. Danny was twelve, and his parents had just announced that they were moving back to Amity Park. The news hit Danny hard—it meant leaving behind the new life he had started to build in Gotham, as well as his new friend, Jason.

The day the news broke, Danny was sitting in the living room, his parents bustling around with excitement. His mom, Maddy, had already started packing boxes, and Jack was in the middle of one of his rambling speeches about “fresh starts” and “new adventures.”

“You know, Danny,” Jack had said, “a change of scenery will do us all some good! Amity Park is going to be great for the family! You’ll be closer to your friends there, too!”

But Danny’s mind was already elsewhere. Gotham was home now, not Amity Park. Jason was here. And leaving felt wrong.

Later that evening, after his parents had retired to their lab to prepare for the move, Danny found himself standing outside, staring out at the Gotham skyline. He thought about all the memories he had made in the city—the places, the people... Jason.

It wasn’t long before Danny heard footsteps behind him. He turned around to see Jason standing there, hands shoved deep into his jacket pockets, his face shadowed by the streetlights.

“You heard the news, huh?” Danny asked quietly.

Jason didn’t say anything at first. He simply gave a small nod, his lips pressed into a tight line. He wasn’t surprised, but that didn’t make it any easier to hear.

“So, I guess this is it, huh?” Jason muttered. “You’re really leaving?”

Danny frowned. He’d known Jason would take it hard. They had spent so much time together, and it felt like they had finally started to understand each other.

“I don’t want to go,” Danny said, his voice soft but firm. “But my parents—my mom, especially—she’s excited to go back. They think it’ll be good for us, I guess.”

Jason nodded again, but this time it was more of a dismissive gesture. “Yeah. Whatever.” He kicked at a loose rock on the ground, his eyes not meeting Danny’s. “Guess I’ll just... figure it out. It’s not like you were the first friend I ever had.”

Danny could tell Jason was trying to play it cool, but the hurt was there, hidden beneath the bravado.

Danny took a deep breath, a plan forming in his head. "Hey, I know this is all messed up, but I’m not just leaving you hanging. I made you something."

Jason raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but still guarded. "What do you mean?"

Danny pulled out a small, makeshift device from his backpack—a crudely assembled phone, cobbled together from the various spare parts his dad had lying around the lab. The screen was a little too small, and the buttons were a bit off, but Danny was proud of it.

"I... kind of hacked together a way for us to talk," Danny said, holding it out to Jason with a grin. "It's not perfect, but it’ll work. Now we can keep in touch, no matter where I am."

Jason took the device, inspecting it with a mixture of disbelief and awe. "You... made this? Seriously?"

"Yep," Danny replied with a proud smirk. "Just think of it as my ‘I’ll never leave you stranded in Gotham’ gift.”

Jason looked at the phone for a long moment before meeting Danny's eyes. His expression softened, and for a brief moment, the tough exterior cracked. "Thanks, man. This means a lot." His voice was quiet, almost unsure.

Danny smiled. "No problem. You know, I was gonna call it a 'Dannyphone,' but I figured that was too cheesy. Anyway, keep it safe, alright?"

Jason tucked the device into his jacket pocket, still a little hesitant. "I’ll take good care of it. You can count on that."

The two boys stood there for a moment, the weight of the impending goodbye hanging in the air.

"I’ll call you, Jason. Every chance I get," Danny said, his voice earnest. "You’re not getting rid of me that easily."

Jason snorted, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, yeah. As long as you don’t call me when I’m in the middle of something important. Or, y’know, when I’m trying to sleep."

Danny laughed. "Deal. But just so you know, I’m totally calling you at 3 a.m. one day to make sure you’re still alive and kicking."

"Great," Jason replied dryly. "I can’t wait."

The weeks passed, and as Danny packed up his room, he and Jason kept in touch through the makeshift phone, just like they promised. At first, it was small talk—how school was going, random stuff about Gotham. But over time, the conversations got deeper. They talked about life, about their fears, about their pasts. Jason opened up more, and Danny found himself confiding in Jason as well.

One evening, just after Danny had returned from school, he called Jason again.

"Hey, man," Danny said, a grin evident in his voice. "Got anything interesting going on?"

Jason’s voice crackled through the phone. “You wouldn’t believe it. The city’s just as messed up as ever. But hey, I’m surviving. What about you? How’s life in Amity Park?”

Danny hesitated for a moment, realizing that Gotham and Amity Park were two very different worlds. But no matter the distance, he knew he’d always have a connection with Jason.

"It’s different," Danny said after a beat. "But I miss it here. Miss you, too, Jason."

Jason’s response was a quiet exhale. "Yeah. Same here."

There was a long silence between them, neither knowing what else to say.

"I’ll visit someday," Danny said finally, his voice quiet but hopeful.

"You better," Jason replied firmly. "And next time, bring some of that crazy technology of yours. Maybe I’ll have something to show you, too."

Danny laughed. "It’s a deal, Jay."

《    》

It was an ordinary afternoon at the Nasty Burger, where Danny, Sam, and Tucker were hanging out in their usual booth. Danny was sipping lazily on his milkshake, his mind drifting off, while Sam scrolled through her phone and Tucker furiously typed on his PDA. The calm atmosphere shattered abruptly when Tucker, who had been glued to his PDA for the last ten minutes, let out a piercing scream, causing Danny to nearly choke on his drink.

“Tucker! What the heck? You trying to kill me?” Danny sputtered, glaring at his friend.

Sam rolled her eyes, clearly used to Tucker’s outbursts. “What now, Tuck? Did you finally figure out that conspiracy theory about the mayor being a robot is fake?”

Tucker didn’t even acknowledge Sam’s sarcastic comment. Instead, he thrust his PDA in Danny’s face. “Look! Jason Todd—your friend Jason—just got adopted by Bruce Wayne!”

Danny blinked, squinting at the screen in confusion. “Uh... who’s Bruce Wayne?” he asked, his tone as nonchalant as ever.

Both Sam and Tucker groaned loudly, drawing annoyed glances from nearby diners. “Seriously, Danny? How do you not know who Bruce Wayne is?” Sam asked, her exasperation clear. “He’s, like, one of the richest people on the planet!”

Tucker jumped in, eager to elaborate. “Not just rich—he’s loaded. Billionaire, playboy, owns Wayne Enterprises, and lives in that giant mansion in Gotham!”

Danny shrugged, unimpressed. “Okay, so he’s got money. Big deal. Why does that matter?”

Lowering his voice, Tucker leaned closer, his expression turning conspiratorial. “Because he’s totally Batman!”

Danny snorted, brushing off the claim with a wave of his hand. “Oh, come on, Tucker. You think every rich guy with a cool car is Batman. Didn’t you say the same thing about Vlad last week?”

“That’s different!” Tucker shot back defensively. “Vlad is too suspicious. But Bruce Wayne fits the profile! Billionaire by day, crime-fighting vigilante by night—it makes perfect sense!”

Sam smirked, clearly amused by Tucker’s determination. “You do realize you have no actual proof, right?” she quipped.

Danny stared blankly for a moment, then glanced at Tucker. “Okay, but... you said Jason Todd got adopted? Why would a billionaire guy like that adopt... Jason?”

Tucker, not able to contain his frustration, pulled out his phone again and started scrolling furiously. "You really need to catch up, man. Jason’s got this whole tragic backstory.”

Danny blinked again, processing the information, "I still don’t get why he never told me about this."

Sam and Tucker exchanged looks before Sam finally said, “Maybe he’s just trying to figure it all out himself, Danny. Some people have complicated pasts.”

Danny chewed on that for a second. “Yeah... maybe you’re right.” He sighed and shook his head.

Later that evening, Danny returned home, still thinking about what Tucker had shown him. He pulled out his phone and dialed Jason’s number. When the call connected, Jason’s voice came through the receiver, sounding a little distracted but still unmistakably Jason.

“Hey, Danny,” Jason greeted, clearly surprised. “What’s up?”

Danny’s voice was a mix of disbelief and teasing. “You never told me you got adopted by a rich fruitloop!”

There was a long pause on the other end, and then Jason replied, his confusion clear. “A what?”

“A rich fruitloop,” Danny repeated, trying to clarify. “You know, a super rich guy with a ton of money, always looking serious and acting like he’s got all the answers. That’s Bruce Wayne, right?”

Jason sighed, clearly unimpressed. “You’re a piece of work, Fenton. Remind me why I put up with you again?”

“Because I keep life interesting,” Danny quipped, his grin widening.

“Yeah, interesting. That’s one way to put it,” Jason muttered before the call ended with both of them chuckling.

Jason laughed softly on the other end, though it sounded more confused than amused. "I don’t know if I’d call him a 'rich fruitloop,' but... yeah, that’s basically what he is. But I didn’t exactly plan on this. It just kinda... happened, you know?"

Danny scratched the back of his head, his mind still spinning. “I mean, that’s insane, man. You went from living on the streets to being adopted by one of the richest guys in the world. That’s like... the plot of every superhero movie ever!”

Jason’s voice softened, a small edge of uncertainty creeping in. “Yeah... I guess. It’s just... weird. I’m still getting used to it.”

Danny could hear the hesitation in Jason’s voice, and his teasing tone shifted into something more understanding. “I get it, man. I can’t imagine going from being on my own all the time to... that. Must be a lot to deal with.”

Jason sighed on the other end, his tone softening. “It is. But, I don’t know... maybe it’s not so bad. I mean, Bruce... he’s different, but he’s... trying. And for the first time, I think I might actually be... wanted. Like I belong.”

Danny’s heart softened at the sincerity in Jason’s voice. “You do belong, Jason. And if that means you’re living with a crazy rich guy with a cape, then you better enjoy the perks, alright?”

Jason chuckled lightly. “Yeah, yeah. You don’t have to remind me. I get it. And hey, I’m still me, right? No billionaire is going to change that.”

Danny smiled, a warmth spreading through him. “You’re still you, Jason. No one could change that, not even some billionaire with a bat obsession.”

Jason paused, a genuine smile slipping into his voice. “Thanks, Danny. I appreciate it.”

“Anytime, man,” Danny replied, his grin wide. "Just don’t forget to share some of that rich guy food with me next time I visit."

Jason snorted. “Yeah, don’t get too used to it. I’m not giving up my snacks just because Bruce has a pantry full of organic stuff.”

Danny laughed, knowing that no matter how much things had changed, Jason would always be the same guy he’d met in Gotham—tough, sarcastic, and a little bit of a weirdo.

《    》

The fight had been one of the worst Jason had faced yet. Bruised and battered, he stood in the alley, his chest heaving as he stared down at the shattered remains of the makeshift phone Danny had built for him two years ago. The device had skittered across the pavement, breaking into pieces upon impact. Jason’s fists clenched tightly at his sides as he whispered, “I’m sorry, Danny.”

Batman’s voice crackled in his earpiece, calm but firm. “Focus, Jason. We need to move.”

Jason swallowed hard, forcing himself to nod. “Yeah... right,” he muttered, shoving the pain and regret deep down as he followed Batman into the shadows. But even as the mission continued, his thoughts lingered on the broken phone.

《    》

Back in Amity Park, Danny sat on the edge of his bed, staring at the phone in his hand. It had been weeks since he’d last heard from Jason. Calls went unanswered, and messages were left in a void of silence. At first, Danny told himself Jason was just busy—after all, being adopted by a billionaire couldn’t leave a lot of free time.

But as time passed, the silence began to sting.

Sam and Tucker sat cross-legged on the floor of his room, trying their best to distract him. Tucker was fiddling with a gadget, and Sam was flipping through a magazine.

“Maybe he’s just... off the grid,” Tucker suggested, glancing up from his work. “I mean, he’s working with Batman now. That’s gotta be a pretty big deal, right?”

“Or,” Sam said, closing the magazine with a snap, “he’s just really bad at staying in touch. Not everyone is great at communication, Danny.”

Danny frowned, turning the phone over in his hands. “It’s not like Jason to just... ghost me. I know he’s busy, but he’d always find time to call. Even if it was just for five minutes.”

Tucker glanced at Sam nervously before handing Danny the magazine he’d been hiding. “Uh, Danny... maybe this will help explain?”

Danny took the magazine with a confused look. The cover featured Bruce Wayne and his “new son,” Jason Todd, stepping out of a sleek car in expensive suits. The headline read: Bruce Wayne’s Newest Protégé: Jason Todd Living the Luxe Life.

Danny’s heart sank. “Oh...” His voice trailed off as he stared at the photo of Jason, looking polished and confident, a far cry from the scrappy kid he’d met in Gotham.

Sam tried to interject. “Danny, I’m sure this is just for show. You know how the media twists things.”

But Danny’s shoulders slumped. “Maybe he doesn’t need me anymore,” he muttered. “I mean, look at him. He’s got this whole new life now—fancy cars, suits, a billionaire dad. Why would he bother calling some kid from Amity Park?”

“Danny, that’s not fair,” Sam said firmly. “Jason’s your friend. You don’t know what’s going on with him.”

Danny stood up abruptly, pacing the room. “I don’t know because he won’t tell me! He used to tell me everything, Sam. Now it’s like... like I don’t exist anymore.”

Tucker scratched the back of his neck. “Maybe you should try calling him again?”

Danny let out a hollow laugh. “What’s the point? He probably changed his number to something only rich people can afford.”

《    》

Meanwhile, in Gotham, Jason sat on the edge of his bed in Wayne Manor, holding the largest fragment of the broken phone. He hadn’t told Bruce or Alfred about it, hadn’t dared to ask if it could be fixed. It felt like a symbol of his old life, something he wasn’t sure he could bring into this new world.

Jason stared at the piece, his thumb running over the jagged edge. “I’m sorry, Danny,” he murmured again, his voice barely audible. “I didn’t forget you. I just... I don’t know how to fix this.”

The sound of footsteps made him shove the fragment into his pocket just as Alfred entered the room. “Master Jason, dinner is ready.”

Jason nodded, standing up and shoving his hands into his pockets. “Yeah. Thanks, Alfred.”

As he walked down the grand hallway, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of the silence between him and Danny.

《    》

Years passed, and Danny wondered why Jason had stopped talking to him. The silence weighed on him, but life in Amity Park was busy. At fourteen, Danny’s life changed forever when a freak accident in his parents’ lab turned him into a half-ghost. Now going by the name Phantom, Danny dedicated himself to protecting his town and learning to control his powers.

One quiet night, Danny lay in his room, staring at the faint glow of the stars through his window. The hum of the Ghost Zone portal in the basement was barely audible, but it was a constant reminder of how his life had changed.

"Jason," Danny muttered to himself, his voice soft in the stillness. "You’d probably think this is nuts. Me? Half ghost? Fighting literal nightmares and saving the world every other week? Yeah, that’d make for a fun email." He chuckled dryly, running a hand through his messy black hair.

The quiet was suffocating, leaving Danny alone with his thoughts. "I mean, you could’ve at least written or something," he continued, as if Jason were sitting across the room. "What happened to ‘best friends forever’? Was that just... a Gotham thing? Or..." Danny hesitated, his voice faltering. "Did I do something wrong?"

At sixteen, life had become even more complicated. Training to become the King of the Infinite Realms wasn’t exactly something you could pencil into a planner between algebra homework and patrols. Sitting up in bed, Danny absently flipped a Fenton Thermos in his hands, staring at his reflection in the polished metal. His neon green eyes seemed to glow back at him, a constant reminder of who he was now—and who he used to be.

He sighed, leaning back against the headboard. "Man, Jason, you’d laugh if you saw me now. King of a ghost dimension? Fighting shadow demons and talking yetis? Totally normal day at the office." His grin was faint but quickly faded. "I just... I hope you’re okay, y’know? Gotham’s no picnic. And if you’ve got anything like my problems... I wish I could help."

Danny shifted, pulling out an old, crinkled photo from his bedside drawer. It was of him and Jason, arms slung around each other, grinning like idiots at some theme park during a summer trip. Danny traced a finger over the edges of the picture, his voice barely above a whisper. "Do you even remember this? Us? Or am I just... some ghost of a memory?"

The Fenton Thermos clattered to the floor as Danny stood abruptly. "Ugh! Why do I even care so much? He probably forgot about me ages ago," he huffed, pacing his room. But as his frustration ebbed, he slowed, leaning against his desk. "Nah... you wouldn’t forget. You’re Jason."

His voice softened. "And if you did... well, I guess I’ll just have to remind you someday."

Danny’s gaze drifted back to the photo as a ghostly ring of light swept over him, leaving Phantom in his place. His glowing green eyes shone with determination. "But first? I’ve got a kingdom to handle—and ghosts to bust." With a flick of his wrist, the photo was tucked safely away, and Danny vanished into the night, leaving only a faint blue glow in his wake.

《    》

Jason’s life took a darker turn. As Robin, he pushed himself to his limits, but his recklessness eventually led to his death at the hands of the Joker. At fifteen, Jason’s life ended in agony.

The Infinite Realms was vast and endless, a place of strange beauty and even stranger rules. Danny had grown accustomed to its otherworldly landscapes—the floating islands, the rivers of time, the endless skies. But nothing could prepare him for the reunion that awaited him.

Jason had died. It was a brutal, tragic end at the hands of the Joker, and somehow, Jason’s soul had been drawn into the Infinite Realms. Danny had heard whispers of it, but nothing could have prepared him for the boy he once knew, now standing before him.

Jason’s eyes were wide, uncertain, but there was a flicker of recognition in them as he looked at Danny. The years had changed him—his body was older, his face more weathered, but Danny could still see the boy he had once shared sandwiches with, laughing and talking about their lives.

“Danny?” Jason asked, his voice trembling.

Danny’s eyes widened in shock before softening with recognition. “Jason…”

“I didn’t think I’d ever see you again,” Danny said quietly, his voice trembling despite his best efforts to appear calm.

The two of them stood there for a long moment, neither sure what to say next. It had been so long—longer than either of them had realized. Finally, Danny broke the silence, his voice low but with a hint of disbelief. “What happened to you, Jay?”

Jason shook his head, rubbing the back of his neck in a familiar, awkward gesture. “You really wanna know?” He let out a bitter laugh. “I guess you deserve an answer.”

Danny’s gaze softened with empathy as Jason’s voice lowered, the weight of his story settling on him. “I was Robin. I pushed myself too far, tried to prove I could handle it, and—well, you saw the result.”

Danny stared at him for a long time, his mind racing to process what Jason was saying. “Wait—hold up. You were Robin? The Robin?” He blinked, trying to understand the magnitude of the revelation.

Jason nodded grimly. “Yeah, the one who got a crowbar to the face.” He met Danny’s eyes. “I thought I could make a difference, but I wasn’t ready. I was too reckless, too angry.”

Danny’s jaw dropped, and his voice was filled with a mix of shock and disbelief. “So, you’re telling me you were Robin, the sidekick to Batman? Batman, the billionaire playboy?” His eyes widened further. “And here I was, thinking Tucker was just being his usual paranoid self.”

Jason raised an eyebrow, clearly confused. “Tucker? Who’s that?”

Danny quickly shook his head, as though he just remembered his own mistake. “Uh, never mind. Just—how the heck didn’t I see that coming? I mean, Bruce Wayne? The guy with the whole dark knight shtick?” He let out a disbelieving laugh. “Man, I really need to catch up on Gotham.”

Jason gave him a look of utter confusion, still not following. “What do you mean, Gotham?”

“Wait, you don’t know?” Danny asked, a little bewildered. “Gotham—the city—is like, the main stage for all things Batman. Seriously, Bruce Wayne is all over the news.” Danny waved his hand, trying to explain. “But I guess you were too busy dying and coming to the Infinite Realms to catch up on the latest gossip, huh?”

Jason blinked slowly, clearly trying to make sense of this. “Infinite Realms? What’s that?”

Danny sighed and shook his head. “Right. I forgot you wouldn’t know. It’s a… well, it’s a lot of things. The Infinite Realms is this massive place, connected to all sorts of realities, dimensions, and even the afterlife. It’s not a place you can just stumble into without something, well, supernatural happening.” He waved a hand around to gesture at their surroundings. “This place is full of weird, otherworldly stuff—floating islands, rivers of time, even places where you can see echoes of the past. It’s kinda like a catch-all for souls, I guess.”

Jason stared at him, his expression unreadable. “So I’m… stuck here, then?”

Danny shrugged. “Not stuck. Just kinda... wandering through until you find your way. Most souls don't end up here by accident. You either died in a way that connects you to this realm, or your soul's been pulled for some reason. But honestly, I don’t know much more than that. I was dragged here after I died, too.”

Jason was quiet for a moment, absorbing the information. “That’s… a lot to take in.” His voice dropped again, somber. “So, I’m dead. And all that’s left is… this.”

It was silent. Danny clenched his fists, struggling to process everything Jason was saying. “I just want to know…why? Why didn’t you at least talk to me? We were friends, Jason. After everything we went through together, you just—disappeared.”

Jason flinched at the accusation, the weight of his own guilt pressing down on him. “I didn’t mean to disappear. I just—my phone broke, alright? I couldn’t contact you, and everything just spiraled. After that… after everything that happened, I didn’t know how to face you.”

Danny’s jaw tightened, annoyance flickering in his eyes. “Wait. Your phone broke?” He let out a frustrated sigh and took a step closer to Jason, landing a punch on his shoulder. “Really? That’s why you stopped talking to me? You were too good for me to even get a broken phone fixed?”

Jason groaned, rubbing his shoulder. “Ow, man! You weren’t this strong before.” He looked up at Danny with a mixture of confusion and amusement.

Danny let out a frustrated chuckle, rolling his eyes. “Yeah, well, maybe I’ve changed too.”

Jason’s face softened again, his voice tinged with regret. “I know I messed up. I just didn’t want you to get caught up in the stuff I was dealing with. It was too dangerous.”

Danny gave him a sharp look, not convinced. “You really think you could just push me out like that? I’m not some kid who can’t handle himself. But we’re still the same, Jay. You’re still my friend.”

Jason looked up at him, eyes glimmering with a mixture of surprise and something else—maybe hope. “You mean it?”

Danny grinned, his usual teasing demeanor creeping back. “What, you think I’d leave my best friend hanging just because you decided to play hero for Gotham?”

Jason chuckled, the first real smile on his face in what felt like forever. “Guess I forgot how annoying you could be.”

Danny rolled his eyes. “Hey, if I wasn’t annoying, how would you ever know I was around?”

Jason gave him a playful shove. “I’m pretty sure I’d figure it out.”

Jason moan at the pain of his shoulder. “Seriously, what happened to you?”

Danny shrugged nonchalantly. “I guess I’ve been doing a lot of ghost fighting, so I had to bulk up a bit.” He grinned at Jason. “Guess you could say I’m not just a kid anymore.”

Jason let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. “You’re still you.”

Danny’s smile faded slightly as he looked at his old friend. “Yeah, but I’ve changed. We both have.”

Jason nodded, his expression softening. “We’ll figure it out. Whatever happens next.”

Danny grinned again. “Yeah. You and me, we’ve got this.”

And for the first time in a long while, both of them felt like maybe they weren’t as lost as they had thought.

《    》

Danny’s eighteenth birthday was a momentous occasion in more ways than one. It wasn’t just a milestone in his life—it marked his official ascension to the throne as the High King of the Infinite Realms. The Infinite Realms, a vast and wild territory, had been without a true leader for far too long, and now Danny was set to guide its many factions through uncharted territories. Ghosts, demons, aliens, and even the souls of humans who had passed through the mortal realm had all gathered to witness the moment when Danny would take his place among the rulers of the afterlife.

The coronation ceremony was nothing short of extravagant. The sky above the Realms shimmered in hues of violet and blue, streaked with ethereal auroras, while the ground beneath was paved with glowing stones that pulsed like a heartbeat. It was a place where the impossible was normal, and Danny was to be crowned in the presence of every sentient being who had ever existed in the vast, untamed reaches of the Infinite Realms.

Danny, dressed in a flowing robe of silver and black, stood at the center of a colossal, ornate throne, the dark energy of the Realms humming with power as the coronation began. His expression was one of focus, but deep down, he felt the weight of the responsibility settling over him. The Infinite Realms were a strange, chaotic place, and the task of ruling it seemed both thrilling and terrifying. Still, he knew that he wasn’t alone in this journey. He had Jason by his side, and that made all the difference.

Jason stood beside him, his usual leather jacket replaced by something more formal—dark, but still undeniably him. He stood with his arms crossed, observing the ceremony with a quiet intensity. Though he wasn’t a part of the coronation itself, he had become Danny’s most trusted confidant and ally. He was more than just a companion; he was the constant in Danny’s life, the one person who always made him feel grounded.

Fright Knight, the intimidating and stoic knight who had served the Infinite Realms for centuries, had been appointed Danny’s second-in-command. His towering figure and imposing presence were softened only by the respect he showed for Danny. The knight was a figurehead of strength and loyalty, his deep voice echoing across the gathering as he addressed the crowd.

“Today, we witness the crowning of a new era. Phantom, High King of the Infinite Realms, whose strength, wisdom, and heart have proven him worthy of this title,” Fright Knight proclaimed, his voice carrying through the air with a regal authority. “May his rule bring balance to our worlds.”

The crowd erupted into cheers, a cacophony of voices from all corners of the realms. There were ghosts who had been long forgotten, demons who bowed their heads, and souls of all kinds—each of them coming together in celebration. Danny could feel the energy shifting around him as he stepped forward, the crown held high above his head. His pulse quickened, but his heart was steady. He could do this.

Jason, standing a few steps behind him, couldn’t help but smile. He’d watched Danny grow from a confused, reluctant ghost boy into the leader of an entire realm. Despite all the danger, all the uncertainty, Danny had faced it with courage and heart. And now, here he was, about to step into a role that no one, not even he, had expected.

“Danny,” Jason muttered under his breath, a grin tugging at his lips. “I think you’re going to be a pretty damn good king.”

Danny glanced back at him, his smile soft but genuine. “Thanks, Jay. I’m still trying to wrap my head around it. Being king? It sounds... weird, you know?”

Jason chuckled, his arms still crossed. “Weird? Yeah, I guess. But you’ve got this. You’re Danny Fenton. You’ve handled more crazy than anyone else could’ve even imagined. This is just another day for you, right?”

Danny let out a small laugh. “When you put it that way, yeah. Just another day of saving the universe. No biggie.”

Jason gave him an amused look. “Yeah, sure. No biggie. You’ve got an entire realm’s worth of demons and ghosts staring at you now. No pressure.”

Danny rolled his eyes playfully but felt a strange warmth spread through him at Jason’s words. Even in the most surreal of moments, Jason was always there, grounding him in a way no one else could.

As the ceremony continued, Danny stepped forward to take his rightful place on the throne, a golden crown adorned with gemstones resting on his head. The moment was surreal. The throne felt colder than he expected, and the vastness of the Infinite Realms stretched endlessly before him. It was as if the weight of an entire universe had settled on his shoulders. But he wasn’t alone. Jason was there. Fright Knight was there. And as he glanced at the faces in the crowd—some familiar, others foreign—he knew he had their support.

Once the crown was placed on his head, the atmosphere shifted. The cheers grew louder, and the energy in the air felt even more electrified. It was official: Danny was the High King, and the Realms were his to rule.

Later that night, as the celebration continued, Danny found himself standing outside the grand hall, taking in the beauty of the Infinite Realms. The stars twinkled above him like diamonds, and the air was cool but comforting. Jason had slipped away from the crowd to join him, his presence always a welcome relief in moments like these.

“You okay?” Jason asked, his voice low and casual as he leaned against the stone wall next to Danny.

Danny let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding. “Yeah, just... processing all of this. It’s a lot to take in. One minute, I’m just trying to figure out how to handle being dead, and the next, I’m a king. I never saw this coming.”

Jason tilted his head slightly, his expression serious but supportive. “You’ve earned it, Danny. You might not think so, but you’ve been through more than most people can handle. And look at you now. You’re still standing. You’re still you.”

Danny gave him a small, appreciative smile. “Thanks, Jay. It means a lot that you’re here for all of this.”

Jason grinned. “What kind of best friend would I be if I wasn’t? Besides, I’ve got nothing better to do than watch my favorite ghost-king try to make sense of his new job.”

Danny snorted, rolling his eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Make fun of the king all you want. But you’re stuck with me now, pal. That’s not going away.”

Jason shrugged nonchalantly, but there was a glint of fondness in his eyes. “Fine by me. I’ve seen worse gigs.”

Danny’s heart fluttered, a warmth spreading through him that had nothing to do with the energy of the Realms around them. Jason was right. He was here, and that was all that mattered. Together, they would face whatever challenges came next.

As the night continued, the celebration grew louder, filled with music, laughter, and the joyous sounds of beings from every corner of the Infinite Realms. Danny, now High King, stood beside Jason.

《    》

On Jason’s sixteenth birthday, he couldn’t hold back any longer. The day was a blur—his thoughts constantly circling back to one thing. His feelings for Danny had grown deeper over time, ever since he had found himself here in the Infinite Realms.

Danny, of course, had been there for him, more than anyone ever had. They had shared laughs, stories, and pain. Jason had felt a connection, something familiar that he hadn’t realized he was missing until now. They had been through so much together, and Jason couldn’t ignore it any longer. His feelings had become undeniable.

"Danny," Jason said, his voice quieter than usual, a nervous tremor in it. "I like you. Like, really like you." His face flushed despite his ghostly form, his cheeks turning a deeper shade of red.

Danny froze. The words hit him like a lightning bolt. He blinked, his mind racing to process what Jason had just said. His heart was hammering in his chest, his stomach twisting in knots. He cared deeply about Jason, more than he had ever let on, but there were so many complications in his mind. The age gap… the fact that Jason was dead. Danny had just barely wrapped his head around his own death, let alone thinking about starting something with someone who had already gone through all the stuff Jason had.

"Jason… I…” Danny’s voice faltered as he searched for the right words, trying not to hurt him. He stepped back slightly, his gaze softening. “I... I care about you. I really do." He paused, swallowing hard. "But I just... I need time to think. This... this is a lot, man."

Jason nodded, but there was a visible flash of disappointment in his eyes. He tried to hide it, his lips pulling into a small, almost forced smile. "Yeah, okay. Take your time," he said, his voice quiet, a tinge of sadness leaking through.

Danny's heart clenched. It wasn’t that he didn’t like Jason. He had thought about it, of course. But the confusion and the recent grief of his own death made things more complicated than he was willing to admit. He wasn’t sure how to approach any of it, and Jason deserved better than just a half-hearted answer.

He reached out, touching Jason’s arm lightly, his voice sincere. “Jason, I’m not rejecting you. It’s just… I haven’t even fully processed being a king yet, you know? You just died. And the age gap—I'm still trying to get my head around the fact that I’m... well, dead, and a king of a whole place, and you—" He shook his head, struggling to find the right words. “This isn’t just about you. I don’t know who I am yet in this new reality. Everything’s still a mess in my head.”

Jason looked at him, his expression softening but still tinged with that disappointment. “I get it,” he said, his voice low. “I’m not expecting you to make any decisions right now, Danny. I know I’m... well, I’m dead, and that’s a lot to put on you.”

Danny smiled weakly, grateful for Jason’s understanding. “It’s not that. It’s just—there’s no rush, okay? We’ve got all the time in the world to figure this out. I just... need to know who I am before I figure out what we are.”

Jason let out a breath, looking away for a moment before meeting Danny’s gaze again. “Yeah, you’re right. I shouldn’t push you. I just…” He shrugged. “I guess I just thought that maybe we could have something more. I mean, after everything. All we’ve been through.”

Danny's heart twinged. "Jason," he began softly, "We have something more. You’re my friend. That won’t change." He paused, then added, “It’s just… I need time to understand what that means in this new world, for both of us.”

Jason nodded again, the weight of his feelings clearly still there, but his expression was more resigned now. “Yeah. I can wait. Just don’t... don’t disappear on me, okay?”

Danny smiled at that, a small, teasing grin tugging at his lips. “You think I’d leave? Come on, Jay. You’re stuck with me.” He paused, his voice turning more serious. “And you’re right. What we’ve been through, what we still have, that’s something I’m not gonna let go of. Ever.”

Jason’s gaze softened, and for a moment, the distance between them seemed to disappear. “Thanks, Danny. I’m glad to know you’re still here. Even if you’re not... ready.”

Danny gave him a small nod. “I’ll always be here. I promise.”

The two of them stood there for a moment, the tension easing between them, replaced by a comfortable silence. There were so many questions still unanswered, so many things left to figure out, but for now, they had each other—and that was enough.

Jason gave a small, almost reluctant smile. “You know, you’re kind of a pain sometimes,” he said, trying to lighten the mood, though his voice held a hint of affection.

Danny grinned, his usual teasing nature resurfacing. “And you’re just now noticing that? I thought I’d been annoying you for years.”

Jason rolled his eyes, his smile widening. “Yeah, well, I’m still not used to it. But I guess I’ll have to deal with it, huh?”

Danny laughed softly, nudging him playfully. “Yep. Looks like you’re stuck with me, buddy.”

Jason chuckled, the sadness that had clouded his expression lifting, if only a little. It wasn’t much, but it was a start.

《    》

A year had passed since Jason’s return to the Infinite Realms, and during that time, Danny had grown more accustomed to the strange, otherworldly nature of his existence. He still made appearances in Amity Park, spending time with Sam and Tucker and occasionally visiting his family, but his life had taken on a new rhythm. When he wasn’t with them, he found himself retreating to the Ghost Zone, the vast, chaotic place that had become his second home. And it was here, more than anywhere else, where he spent most of his free time with Jason.

Jason, now seventeen, had grown even more accustomed to his new life, and Danny had seen him evolve in ways that left him breathless. He’d seen the scarred, hardened teenager that had first arrived in the Infinite Realms, but over time, Jason had revealed glimpses of the boy Danny had once known—vulnerable, kind, and occasionally playful. It had taken time for them both to adjust, to reconcile with their pasts and their new realities, but there was an undeniable bond between them now, something neither could ignore.

But something had changed in Danny.

He had never fully processed his feelings for Jason. For a while, he'd convinced himself that his deep affection for him was just a byproduct of their shared experiences. After all, Jason had been through so much, and Danny had been there to help him heal. But recently, those feelings had started to evolve into something more. Something deeper. Something he couldn’t push aside any longer.

It all came to a head one evening when Danny had visited the Ghost Zone, ready to spend some time with Jason. He was floating lazily in the air, hovering just outside the cavern where Jason had been meditating, when he noticed something that made his blood boil.

A ghost—a tall, slender figure with an ethereal glow—had been flirting with Jason, clearly trying to make a move on him. The ghost’s eyes glowed with a playful gleam as they leaned in, attempting to touch Jason’s arm. Danny’s heart raced, his fists clenching involuntarily. It wasn’t like him to be jealous, especially over something like this. Jason wasn’t his—he hadn’t even confessed how he felt yet—but the thought of someone else touching him, of someone else thinking they could just waltz in and claim him, made Danny’s stomach churn.

He couldn’t just stand there. With a burst of frustration, he zipped toward them, his voice cutting through the air. “Hey! Back off, pal!”

The ghost looked up in surprise, and Danny’s eyes narrowed as he glared at them. “Jason’s mines. Back off.” he finishes in Ghost speak.

The ghost, sensing the growing tension, vanish into the air, disappearing. Danny’s chest was still heaving as he turned toward Jason, his heart pounding.

Jason was watching him, an amused look on his face. “For a guy who doesn’t like me, he sure seems jealous at some ghost talking to me.”

Danny crossed his arms defensively, his face flushing slightly as he hovered awkwardly. “I wasn’t jealous,” he muttered, looking away.

Jason chuckled, raising an eyebrow. “Uh-huh. Sure. You’re practically radiating it, Danny.” He leaned forward slightly, a teasing grin pulling at the corner of his lips. “I thought you weren’t sure about how you’re feeling, huh?”

Danny’s face flushed even harder, and he pouted, clearly embarrassed by the way Jason was looking at him. “I wasn’t jealous,” he repeated, though there was a definite hint of discomfort in his voice. “I just... didn’t like that they were too close to you. That’s all.”

Jason smirked, clearly enjoying the reaction. “You know, you’re pretty cute when you’re jealous.”

Danny groaned and buried his face in his hands. “I am not cute.”

Jason leaned in, his voice lowering playfully. “Oh, you are. You really are. You didn’t have to go all ghostly avenger on them, though. I’m not some prize to be fought over, you know.”

Danny rolled his eyes, but his heart was still racing. “Yeah, well... I don't want anyone thinking they can just swoop in and take you away,” he admitted, his voice softening as he spoke.

Jason’s teasing smile faltered slightly, replaced by something warmer. He reached out, resting a hand on Danny’s shoulder. “Danny... you don’t have to worry about that. I’m not going anywhere. And I don’t think anyone else can take me away from you, even if they tried.” He let out a quiet chuckle. “Though, I do like that you care enough to get all worked up over it.”

Danny looked up at him, surprised by the sincerity in Jason’s voice. His heart skipped a beat as he met Jason’s eyes. “You mean it?”

Jason nodded, his expression softening. “Yeah. I mean it. I don’t want anyone else. I never have.”

Danny’s pulse quickened, a mix of relief and excitement bubbling in his chest. Maybe he had been afraid of this. Maybe he had been afraid of the changes that admitting his feelings would bring. But in that moment, everything clicked.

“You know,” Danny said slowly, his voice still unsure, “I wasn’t really planning on confessing like this, but I—I like you, too. A lot. And it’s... it’s been hard to admit that to myself. Especially since, well, you’re dead, and I’m still trying to get used to all of this ghost stuff. But... yeah. I do.” He looked away, embarrassed by the sudden rush of emotions.

Jason’s smile softened as he reached for Danny’s hand, squeezing it gently. “I’m glad you finally did.”

Danny’s eyes widened, a bit of disbelief mixing with his joy,but pouts at Jason, “You jerk!”

Jason chuckled, his voice low and affectionate. “Me?! You’re the one who made me wait for a whole year!” He pulled Danny closer, a smirk crossing his face. “About time, don’t you think?”

Danny laughed, shaking his head. “You’re lucky you’re cute, or I’d leave you here to deal with the next ghost hitting on you.”

Jason grinned, his fingers still entwined with Danny’s. “I’m not worried. I’ve got you now.”

《    》

As the months passed, Danny and Jason’s bond deepened, evolving into something undeniably special. Their relationship wasn’t without its challenges, of course. Danny was still adjusting to him being a King, and Jason was learning how to navigate life in the Infinite Realms, but there was something about being together that made everything feel a little easier. They found comfort in each other’s company, and laughter became a constant in their lives.

Sometimes, when Danny felt like he needed a break from the chaos of the Ghost Zone, he would take Jason into Amity Park. The town was as quirky and strange as ever, but it had become a place where Danny could truly be himself, with his friends, with his family, and most importantly, with Jason. They would go on dates, walking through the quiet streets of Amity Park, sometimes in the middle of the night when no one was around to notice. Jason had never experienced anything quite like it. In the Ghost Zone, everything was so different—so untamed. But in Amity Park, there was a kind of normalcy, a sense of belonging, that Jason had never really had.

One evening, Danny led Jason to the park. Nobody really pay attention to anyone here so this was the perfect spot. They continued to joke and tease, a comfortable silence settled between them. The waiter arrived and placed their orders in front of them—two milkshakes, and a stack of fries for good measure.

“So,” Danny said, “how’s everything going? You feel like you’re settling in okay?”

Jason paused for a moment, “Yeah, I mean, it’s weird. I’m still getting used to all this ghost stuff. The whole ‘being dead’ thing doesn’t exactly come with a handbook.” He shrugged, looking away for a moment before meeting Danny’s eyes. “But... it’s not so bad, you know? Being here with you, in Amity Park... it feels kind of normal.”

Danny smiled softly, his heart swelling at the sincerity in Jason’s voice. “I get it. It’s like, for the first time, you’re not just a ghost... you’re someone. You’re you.”

Jason’s smile grew a little wider, but he was still hesitant. “Yeah, but... I don’t think I could’ve gotten here without you. You’ve been there for me in ways I didn’t even know I needed.”

Danny’s expression softened, his fingers tapping the grass “Hey, it’s no big deal. You’ve always been there for me too. We’re a team, right?”

Jason nodded, looking down at the picnic blanket “Yeah... but sometimes I feel like I owe you more than I can give back.”

Danny reached across, gently resting his hand on Jason’s. “You don’t owe me anything, Jay. Just having you here, with me... that’s enough.”

A little smile tugged at Jason’s lips, and he squeezed Danny’s hand in return. “You know, you’re way too nice to me. I should be the one saying that stuff.”

Danny laughed softly. “What can I say? I’m just that good of a boyfriend.” He grinned, clearly enjoying the teasing.

Jason rolled his eyes but couldn’t hide the fond smile spreading across his face. “Yeah, yeah. Just don’t let it get to your head, Danny Fenton.”

Their easy banter was interrupted when Danny’s phone buzzed in his pocket. He fished it out, his smile growing when he saw who it was. “It’s Sam and Tucker,” he said with a grin. “They wanna know what we’re doing.”

Jason raised an eyebrow, with a playful smirk. “Let me guess. Sam’s got a lecture prepared, and Tucker’s probably asking if you’ve figured out how to get me to wear something normal yet.”

Danny snorted. “You know them so well. Sam’s already preparing to drag me into another environmental campaign, and Tucker’s been giving me crap about how I let you wear leather jackets all the time.”

Jason laughed, shaking his head. “Well, I do look good in leather, so they’re just gonna have to deal with it.”

Danny grinned. “Exactly. You’re a walking, talking fashion statement. A ghost in leather.”

Jason gave a mock bow, his smirk turning smug. “I aim to impress.”

“Well, you impress me,” Danny said, his voice suddenly soft. His words caught Jason off guard, and for a moment, everything else seemed to fade away.

Jason blinked, his expression softening as he met Danny’s gaze. “I’m glad. I think... I think I impress you more than I thought I would.” He paused for a beat, and then, with a small laugh, added, “Though I still don’t get how you’re okay with my ghostly, undead ways.”

Danny laughed, shaking his head. “That’s part of the charm, Jay. You’re a little messed up, but... you’re my little messed up guy.”

Jason’s smile widened, and for a moment, they both just sat there, basking in the comfort of their shared time together.

Later that evening, as they walked down the quiet streets of Amity Park, hand in hand, Danny couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace settle over him. He had never imagined his life—or afterlife—would be like this, but with Jason by his side, it felt like the world was exactly where it needed to be.

But even more than that, Danny knew that Jason had become a part of his world in ways he could never have anticipated. They were more than just two people who had found each other in the midst of a strange, supernatural reality. They were something more—something that felt like home.

《    》

When Jason turned eighteen, Danny had something incredibly special planned for him. He had been thinking about it for weeks, working with the right people to make it a reality. It wasn’t just a gift—it was a gesture of love, commitment, and a promise of something that neither of them could ever take back.

One cool afternoon, Danny led Jason to the back of the grand castle that now served as their home in the Infinite Realms. The breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers and fresh earth, and the sky above was a clear, calming shade of violet. As they stepped through the tall, stone archway that separated the garden from the rest of the castle, Jason’s eyes widened in amazement.

Danny watched with a soft, pleased smile as Jason took in the scene before him. The garden stretched out before them, a lush, verdant expanse of carefully cultivated plants that intertwined with wild, free-growing vines. There were couches scattered across the space, some nestled beneath the shade of massive trees, and tables covered in soft cloths with delicate flower petals scattered across them. In the distance, a large, ornate building stood, its windows glowing faintly, like a beacon of knowledge.

Jason took a few steps into the space, running a hand along the edges of a blooming rose bush, his awe growing as he saw more of the intricate details. "Danny, this... this is unbelievable. Did you—?"

Before Jason could finish, Danny’s voice interrupted, calm and steady, but with a hint of nervousness. "I asked Botanica and Undergrowth to help me design it. They worked their magic on the plants." He gestured toward the nearby library, the air around it humming with the faint pulse of otherworldly energy. "And I asked the Ghost Writer to help me create a special library. I made sure to include some of your favorite books."

Jason’s jaw dropped slightly. "Wait, really? You—" He turned to face Danny, trying to process the sheer effort and thought Danny had put into this. "Why go through all of this trouble for me?"

Danny’s expression softened, his eyes full of affection and sincerity. But before he could answer, he sank to one knee, reaching into the pocket of his robe. A small, delicate box appeared in his hand, and he opened it to reveal a shining ring, its stone glowing softly with an ethereal light.

Jason’s breath hitched as Danny looked up at him, his voice unwavering as he spoke.”I can listen no longer in silence. I must speak to you by such means as are within my reach. You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. Tell me not that I am too late, that such precious feelings are gone forever. I offer myself to you again with a heart even more your own…I have loved none but you.”

Jason’s eyes filled with surprise, but then a tear slipped down his cheek, and he couldn’t help but chuckle through the emotion. "You’ve been reading Persuasion , haven’t you?"

Danny’s grin stretched wider, a playful glint lighting his eyes. "Guilty as charged," he replied, a hint of nervousness in his voice now that the moment was so real, so full of promise.

Jason wiped at his eyes, fighting back more tears as he held out a hand to help Danny stand. "You're a real sap, you know that?"

"Only for you," Danny said with a wink.

Jason laughed softly, still in disbelief at what was unfolding. "Danny… this is… this is everything I never expected."

The proposal had been perfect—simple but profound, much like their relationship. After a brief silence, Jason took Danny’s hand and nodded. "Yes. Yes, I will. Always."

The wedding was nothing short of spectacular. It took a month to plan, but every detail was carefully considered, especially by Danny, who had a special fondness for grand gestures. Their ceremony was held within the Infinite Realms, a fitting place for such a momentous occasion. It was a place where the impossible had become possible for both of them, where love and commitment stretched across worlds.

Jazz, Sam, Tucker  and Valerie were there, their presence grounding Danny in a way only his oldest friends could. Danny was a bit sad that his parents weren’t there, since they still don’t like the idea of Ghosts, but at least he still had his friends. The entire Ghost Zone—a community that had become family in its own right.

But the most unexpected part of the ceremony was the presence of Bruce’s biological parents, Martha and Thomas Wayne. They had crossed through the veil, and though Jason had never expected to meet them in the afterlife, the encounter was something he would never forget.

"Martha and Thomas Wayne…" Jason whispered in awe, looking at them, as if they were part of a dream. Martha smiled warmly at him, her eyes kind and loving, while Thomas gave a nod of approval.

"Jason, darling, it's so good to see you," Martha said, her voice warm and welcoming. She reached out, wrapping him in a gentle embrace. "You’ve grown into such a wonderful person."

Thomas placed a hand on his shoulder, offering a brief but sincere smile. "I’m proud of you, boy. You’ve overcome a lot, and I think your father would be proud of the man you’ve become."

Jason’s heart tightened at the words, and he nodded, fighting back the emotions that surged within him. "Thank you, both," he said softly, still overwhelmed by the realization that he was standing with the people who had raised his father, even if his connection to them was more distant.

It was a surreal experience—meeting the figures from his father’s past, especially since he had never had the chance to meet them in life. As the ceremony continued, Jason was also able to meet other important people from his past—Dick Grayson’s parents, who were also present.

The most complicated moment, however, was when Jason met his biological father, Willis Todd, who had passed away after Jason’s adoption. Willis had been distant, even cruel, during Jason’s life, but he approached Jason during the ceremony with a surprising humility.

"I’ve… I’ve made a lot of mistakes," Willis said, his voice gravelly and full of regret. "I’m sorry for the way I treated you. I can’t undo it, but I hope you can find peace."

Jason’s expression remained unreadable as he took in the apology. He didn’t offer a forgiveness he wasn’t ready to give, but he did nod, acknowledging that at least the man had recognized his wrongs.

"It’s… it’s a start," Jason muttered under his breath.

Danny stood by Jason’s side, offering quiet support as they exchanged a glance. This moment was all about the future they were building together, not the past that had held Jason back for so long.

Later, as the reception began, with laughter and celebration filling the air, Danny whispered to Jason, his voice soft and full of affection. "So… how does it feel to be married Mr. Fenton?"

Jason chuckled, pulling Danny closer with a grin. "Well, considering I’m still adjusting to the idea of marriage at all, I’d say it’s pretty surreal."

Danny leaned in, his voice teasing but full of love. "Get used to it, Jay. You’re stuck with me now."

Jason’s smile widened, and as they stood surrounded by friends and family, in the heart of the Infinite Realms, he finally felt complete. "Good," he murmured, his hand slipping into Danny’s. "I wouldn’t want it any other way."

《    》

Danny pulled Jason close, his hands tracing the lines of Jason's back as they shared their first kiss as husbands. Jason's body molded to his, their erections pressing against each other through their tuxedo pants.

Danny led Jason to the bed, his eyes never leaving Jason's. He pushed him gently onto the mattress, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Tonight, I want to make love to you, Jason. I want to show you how much I love you."

"I want that too, Danny," Jason replied, his voice husky with need. "I want to feel you inside me."

Danny led Jason to the bed, his eyes never leaving Jason's. He pushed him gently onto the mattress, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Tonight, it's all about us, starlight."

Danny leaned down, capturing Jason's lips in a passionate kiss. His hands began to explore Jason's body, unbuttoning his shirt, trailing his fingers along Jason's chest. He broke the kiss, his lips moving to Jason's neck, nibbling and sucking, eliciting soft moans from Jason.

Danny's hands moved to Jason's belt, unbuckling it, then unzipping his pants. He pushed them down, along with Jason's boxers, leaving him naked and exposed. Danny's eyes roamed over Jason's body, a look of pure adoration on his face. "You're beautiful, Jason. Inside and out."

Jason blushed, his eyes never leaving Danny's filled with love and trust. "And you're mine," he said, his voice a breathless whisper.

Danny's hands began to caress Jason's body, his thumbs brushing against his nipples, making him arch into the touch. Danny leaned down, his tongue flicking out to lick the head of Jason's cock. Jason gasped, his hips bucking slightly. Danny chuckled, his hands holding Jason's hips down as he took Jason's cock into his mouth, sucking and licking, his tongue swirling around the head.

"Danny," Jason moaned, his hands fisting the sheets. "That feels so good."

Danny pulled back, a wicked grin on his face. "I'm just getting started, starlight," he said, using the nickname he'd given Jason on their first date. He reached into the nightstand, pulling out a bottle of lube and a condom.

He poured some lube onto his fingers, his eyes never leaving Jason's. "I'm going to prepare you, Jason. I want you to be ready for me."

Jason nodded, his breath coming in short gasps. Danny's fingers found Jason's hole, rubbing gently before pushing in. Jason's body tensed, then relaxed as Danny's finger slid in and out of him, preparing him for what was to come. "It's okay, I've got you," Danny whispered, his eyes never leaving Jason's. Jason’s body tense slightly before relaxing, allowing Danny's fingers to slide in deeper.

"Relax, starlight," Danny murmured, his fingers moving in and out, scissoring to stretch Jason. "I've got you. I'm going to make this so good for you."

"More," Jason begged, his hips moving with the rhythm of Danny's hand. Danny added another finger, then another, stretching Jason gently. Jason's body responded to Danny's touch, his moans filling the room. "Danny, please," he begged, his hips moving in time with Danny's fingers.

Danny pulled his fingers out, making Jason whimper at the loss. But the whimper turned into a moan as Danny pressed the head against Jason's hole. "Are you ready, starlight?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

"God, yes," Jason replied, his voice a needy whine, his eyes locked with Danny's.

Danny pushed in slowly, his eyes never leaving Jason's. He could see the pleasure in Jason's eyes, the love, the trust. It was overwhelming, and Danny felt a surge of emotion. "I love you, Jason," he said, his voice thick with emotion. Jason's eyes rolled back in his head as Danny filled him, his body stretching around Danny's girth. "Oh God," he moaned, his nails digging into the bed sheets.

Danny began to move, his hips rocking back and forth. "You're so tight," he groaned. "So perfect."

Jason's eyes welled up with tears. "I love you too, Danny. So much."

Danny began to move, his hips thrusting slowly, his hands holding Jason's. Their eyes remained locked, their bodies moving in sync. The sound of their bodies coming together filled the room, along with their moans and gasps. Jason's hands found Danny's ass, pulling him closer, urging him to move faster.

"Faster, Danny," Jason pleaded, his hands gripping Danny's tightly. "I want to feel all of you."

Danny complied, his thrusts becoming harder, faster. The sound of their bodies coming together filled the room, along with their moans and gasps. "You’re doing so good for me." Danny groaned. 

Jason's body responded to Danny's touch, his moans filling the room. "Harder, Danny. Fuck me harder."

Danny's grip on Jason's hands tightened as he thrust into him, their bodies slapping together. The sound of their lovemaking filled the room, a symphony of their love and desire.

"Danny," Jason moaned, his body tensing. "I'm going to come."

Danny leaned down, capturing Jason's lips in a passionate kiss. "Come for me, starlight," he murmured against Jason's lips. "I want to feel you come apart in my arms."

Jason's body convulsed, his orgasm ripping through him. Danny continued to thrust into him, drawing out Jason's orgasm, his own body tensing as he found his release. They clung to each other, their love and passion a palpable force in the room.

Danny collapsed onto Jason, their bodies slick with sweat. He stared into Jason's eyes, a soft smile playing on his lips. "I love you, starlight," he said, his voice filled with emotion. They lay there, panting, their bodies slick with sweat, their hearts racing.

Jason's eyes welled up with tears. "I love you too, Danny. So much. Forever."

《    》

Danny and Jason’s relationship had evolved quickly in the Infinite Realms. They had married in a quiet, intimate ceremony, their love growing stronger with each passing day. They had finally found peace, a sense of belonging that neither had ever known before. It was a strange, beautiful union between two souls who had experienced pain in ways that most could never understand. They were each other's rock.

But, as with all things, happiness can be fleeting.

It all happened so fast. One moment, Jason was with him—laughing, joking, making plans for their future. The next, Jason was gone, his soul ripped away from the Infinite Realms by the League’s dark magic. The process of bringing him back to life wasn’t just painful; it was violent. Jason was shattered, broken in ways Danny couldn’t fully comprehend. He was angry, lost, and the darkness that came with his resurrection haunted him.

In those first moments after Jason’s return, Danny had tried everything he could think of to bring him back. He searched the Infinite Realms for Jason, his heart racing with a desperate need to find the person he loved, to save him from whatever darkness had taken hold. Jason had been pulled too far into the depths of his own brokenness. Every time Danny thought he was getting closer, the connection between them would slip further away, as if Jason was deliberately pulling himself out of reach.

Time passed, but the hole Jason’s absence left in Danny’s heart only seemed to widen. He couldn’t forget him, no matter how hard he tried. Every corner of the Infinite Realms reminded him of the time they had shared—the quiet nights spent together, the soft laughter, the simple touch of Jason’s hand in his. Those memories were a constant ache in his chest, a reminder of what he had lost.

The process of Jason's resurrection was brutal. The League of Assassins had brought him back, but at a heavy cost. Jason disappeared into the shadows, adopting the persona of the Red Hood. 

The pain was unbearable. Danny tried to keep going, to bury himself in his duties as the King of the Infinite Realms, but every moment felt like a betrayal. The weight of the crown, the endless responsibilities that came with it, only seemed to highlight the absence of Jason by his side.

One evening, Danny found himself in the grand library of the castle, staring at the books that had once brought him comfort. But now, every page seemed empty. Every word felt hollow. He traced his fingers over the spines, wishing he could turn back time, wishing he could find a way to reach Jason, to bring him home. But there was nothing. Just an aching emptiness that gnawed at him from within.

A knock at the door pulled him from his thoughts, and he looked up to see Jazz standing in the doorway, her eyes full of concern.

“Danny…” Jazz started gently, stepping into the room. “I know you’re hurting. We all are. But you can’t keep doing this. You have a kingdom to rule. You can’t throw it all away.”

“I can’t do this without him, Jazz,” Danny replied, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m the King of the Infinite Realms… but without Jason, what’s the point?”

Jazz placed a hand on his shoulder, trying to offer him comfort. “I know you love him. We all do. But you can’t lose yourself in this. You’re not just Danny Fenton, the King. You’re Danny, the person who made all of this possible. The person who brought people together, who saved worlds. You can’t forget that.”

Tucker’s voice came from the door then, his usual joking tone replaced by something more serious. “Jazz is right, man. We get it. We know you’re hurting. But you’re not alone in this.”

Danny turned away from them, staring out the window at the sky beyond. The stars glimmered, distant and cold. “But I am alone,” he murmured, more to himself than to them. “No matter what I do, it feels like I’m just… waiting for him to come back. And it’s killing me.”

Sam’s voice echoed in the hallway, and soon she stepped into the room, her arms crossed over her chest. “Danny, listen to me. Jason’s not gone for good. He’s out there, fighting for whatever he thinks he needs to fight for. But he’s still Jason. He’ll come back. You just have to give him time.”

“I don’t know if he will,” Danny said, shaking his head. “He’s so far gone now. What am I supposed to do without him?”

Sam walked up beside him, her tone gentle but firm. “Then you have to keep fighting for him, Danny. No matter how far gone he is, you’re still the person he loved. Don’t lose hope.”

Danny closed his eyes, taking in a shaky breath. "I don't know if I can do it without him," he whispered.

"You don't have to do it alone," Tucker added, stepping forward. "We're here for you, man. You always have us."

Danny nodded, though the weight of the pain he carried didn’t lighten. Danny threw himself into his duties as king of the Infinite Realms, trying to fill the emptiness that had overtaken him. He led with a quiet intensity, focusing on the responsibilities that came with the crown. Yet, no matter how much he did, the longing for Jason never seemed to fade. It was as though the world around him had lost its color, the weight of the absence of his soulmate too much to bear.

The days turned into weeks. Weeks into months. Danny tried to convince himself that he was doing what he had to do, that there was no other choice but to move forward. But even as he ruled, even as he worked tirelessly to maintain peace in the Infinite Realms, his thoughts were consumed by Jason. He thought of him constantly, hoping, wishing for some sign, some way to bring him back.

But Jason was gone, and no matter what Danny did, he couldn’t change that. The pain of losing Jason was still there, deep and unrelenting. He didn’t know if Jason was out there somewhere, still lost to the darkness, or if he had truly disappeared forever.

It didn’t matter. In his heart, Danny knew he would never forget the love they had shared. Even if it was only a fleeting moment, it had been real.

《    》

A few years have passed. The cold, damp air of the cult’s cavernous lair clung to Jason’s skin, a sharp contrast to the fire burning inside him. Jason, at twenty-three couldn't believe the position he was in. His hands were bound tight, wrists chafing against coarse rope, and his helmet obscured his field of vision. Beside him, he could hear Nightwing struggling against his own restraints while Robin muttered curses under his breath. Red Robin had gone eerily quiet—always a bad sign.

The cult leader’s voice echoed through the cavern, his chant in some ancient tongue growing louder, reverberating like thunder. Jason grimaced, more annoyed than scared.

“This is some grade-A Gotham-level crazy,” Jason muttered under his breath.

Nightwing, ever the optimist, managed a dry quip. “You’d think they’d run out of demon-summoning cults by now.”

Jason felt a pair of hands grip his arm, forcing his glove off. He thrashed against them, but the ropes and exhaustion won. A sharp pain followed—a dagger slicing through the skin of his index finger. Blood welled up and dripped onto the ground, disappearing into the grooves of a glowing, ornate symbol etched in the stone. The symbol pulsed with an eerie green light as the air grew cold, and a swirling vortex opened above them.

“Jason!” Red Robin shouted. “They’re using you to summon something!”

“Yeah, thanks, Tim,” Jason snapped. “Really connecting those dots for me.”

“Uh, guys?” Dick Grayson, Nightwing, called nervously. “I think they actually summoned something.”

Jason grit his teeth, yanking against his restraints as the cultists chanted louder. The air shifted. A chilling wind swept through the room, extinguishing some of the torches. The symbol on the floor erupted in light, and the chanting stopped abruptly as the cultists fell to their knees, bowing toward the spectral green figure materializing in the center of the room. 

“The blood of the tainted one will summon the High King,” the cultist droned, his voice laced with fanaticism

“Behold!” the cult leader cried. “The High King of the Infinite Realms! Pariah Dark returns to—”

“Yeah, yeah, I get it,” the figure interrupted, waving a glowing hand dismissively. “Big scary king, eternal ruler, blah blah blah.” The ghostly figure stepped fully into the light, revealing a young man in a black-and-white jumpsuit with snow-white hair and glowing green eyes. He looked... annoyed.

His words faltered when his eyes landed on Jason, bloodied, tied up, and glaring at him through his dark lashes. Something in Danny’s chest twisted painfully. His expression darkened, his aura flaring violently.

“You did this to him? One of my subjects?!” Danny’s voice was low and venomous as he turned to the lead cultist.

The cult leader stammered, “But—your majesty—”

“I’m not your majesty,” Danny snapped. His eyes scanned the room, landing on Jason, tied up and bleeding. His gaze darkened, his entire aura shifting from annoyance to cold, unyielding rage.

The leader barely had time to scream before Danny lunged, ectoplasmic claws tearing through the air. His siblings shouted protests, but they might as well have been whispers in a storm. Jason’s heart raced as he watched Danny dispatch the cult leader with terrifying precision. The man's lifeless body crumpled to the ground, and Danny’s glowing green eyes darted toward the other cultists, who began scrambling away in fear.

Danny took a step toward the nearest one, hand alight with an eerie green flame. His expression was cold, utterly detached. Jason had seen killers before—hell, he’d been one—but this was different. Danny wasn’t killing out of necessity; he was protecting something. Someone.

Before Danny could unleash another blow, Jason shouted, “Danny!” His voice cracked, desperate, the sound cutting through the chaos.

Danny froze mid-strike. He hesitated before dropping the cultist like a ragdoll. The green fire flickered out as he turned toward the voice, his glowing eyes meeting Jason’s. For a moment, he looked confused, his rage dissipating like smoke in the wind.

“Who are you??” Danny whispered, his voice barely audible. He floated down, his expression shifting to confusion as he took in Red Hood gear.

Ignoring the the vigilante's protests, Danny moved quickly, dispatching the remaining cultists by binding them with glowing green chains, his movements efficient and unyielding. He approached Jason, his gaze fixed.

The Batfamily erupted into protests.

“Get away from him!” Nightwing shouted, struggling harder against his restraints.

“Don’t touch him!” Damian’s voice rang out. “He’s our brother!”

Danny ignored them all. He knelt in front of Jason, his fingers brushing the ropes binding him. “Who are you?” Danny asked, his voice quiet, almost trembling.

Jason hesitated. Then, he muttered, “I’m your husband.”

Danny’s hands stilled. His eyes narrowed. “If you truly are, tell me something I did. Prove it.”

Jason sighed, leaning his head back against the stone wall for a brief moment before removing his helmet. Smoke hissed as the seal broke, revealing his face. The sharp gasp from Nightwing was audible even over the crackling energy in the air.

Jason met Danny’s gaze. “When we first met, you offered me food.” Jason began, his voice steady but emotional, “You taught me how to read and write because no one else had.” Jason said, his voice steady despite the weight of the moment. “You used to visit me every day. You visited me every day, brought me clothes, invited me to your home, and gave me a family when I didn’t have one”

Danny’s eyes widened, tears gathering at the corners. Jason continued, his tone softening. “When you proposed to me… you took me to this beautiful garden your friends had built. There was a library there, filled with books you thought I’d love. You recited Jane Austen to me—something from Persuasion because you knew that they were my favorite.”

Danny’s breath hitched, his ectoplasmic glow dimming as tears welled in his eyes as he whispered, “You… You’re Jason.” he stares at Jason, “Only my husband knew that, so I guess that makes him you.”

Jason’s expression tightened, his voice cracking “I was your Jason,” he said, his voice heavy with guilt. “I’m not the man I used to be, Danny. I’ve done horrible things. I’ve killed people.”

He turned his face away, but Danny wasn’t having it. Gently but firmly, Danny grabbed Jason’s face, forcing him to look into his glowing, tear-filled eyes. His thumbs gently brushed against the scars and lines on Jason’s face.

“You don’t get to do that,” Danny said, his voice breaking. “You don’t get to decide for me. I will fall in love with you over and over again. I don’t care how, where, or when. No matter how long it’s been, you’re mine.”

Jason’s eyes widened, his tough exterior cracking. “Danny, I—”

Danny’s voice cracked as he continued, “Don’t tell me you’re not the same person.” Danny interrupted, his voice breaking.” You’re always my husband. And I’ve been waiting for you.”

Jason’s lip trembled. “Danny…”

Danny pulled him into a fierce hug, his spectral aura warm and protective. The Batfamily was stunned into silence as Danny’s powers gently united Jason’s restraints. Jason hesitated only a moment before burying his face in Danny’s shoulder. Jason didn’t respond with words, as he leans more into Danny’s touch, letting the warmth and familiarity of the ghost king’s presence wash over him.

Danny raised a hand, cupping Jason’s cheek gently, his thumb brushing away a tear Jason didn’t even realize had fallen. His next words were spoken softly but with unshakable conviction. “Even if we ever die and get reincarnated, I’ll always pick you over anyone else.”

Jason’s breath hitched, the weight of those words wrapping around his heart like a lifeline. Jason’s lip trembled as Danny pulled him into a fierce hug. His spectral aura, usually cold and otherworldly, was warm and protective now. Jason's family's protests died in their throats, stunned into silence as they watched the scene unfold.

“You’re an idiot,” Jason muttered, his voice muffled against Danny’s shoulder.

Danny laughed softly, the sound shaky and raw. “Yeah, well… I’m your idiot.”

Jason’s breath hitched, but he let himself sink into the embrace for a moment, his fingers gripping Danny’s tattered jumpsuit. The weight of years apart, of mistakes made and lives lost, pressed down on him, but for the first time in what felt like forever, there was something—someone—holding him up.

Danny finally pulled back, his glowing eyes scanning Jason’s face. He raised a hand, cupping Jason’s cheek as though grounding himself in the reality of his presence. “You’re not the only one who’s done things you’re not proud of,” Danny said, his voice quiet but firm. “But we’ll figure it out. Together.”

Jason wanted to argue, to protest that he wasn’t worth saving, but the look in Danny’s eyes silenced him. It wasn’t just love there—it was determination, unwavering and fierce.

Check  out this works by murdocksgroupie Would You Fall in Love with Me Again?

Gotta share the love to a Jason Todd/Red Hood lover!