So I recently watched Son of Batman, Batman vs. Robin, Batman: Bad Blood, Justice League vs. Teen Titans, Teen Titans: The Judas Contract and The Justice League Dark and it gave me inspiration. What if Heretic didn't die and become more powerful als...
The weight of the chains felt different now. Initially, they were a necessity, a means to keep Marinette safe from herself and others. But now, as I looped one end around my wrist and the other around hers, it symbolized a connection, a bond that went beyond mere metal links. It was a promise - I would be there for her, always.
The idea of the carnival came up during one of our team meetings. I could sense the underlying motive; the Titans wanted to introduce some normalcy back into Marinette's life. They cared, each in their own unique way. Even though I initially hesitated, thinking about the potential risks, the thought of Marinette laughing, enjoying, and experiencing life made me relent. Plus, the carnival was in Gotham. My city. I knew it like the back of my hand.
Driving through Gotham's vibrant streets, I could sense Marinette's fascination. Every so often, her face and hands would press against the car window, her eyes reflecting the city lights, filled with wonder and curiosity. Seeing her so enamored by the world around her, a world she hadn't been part of for so long, tugged at my heartstrings. I couldn't help but smile at her innocent reactions, thinking to myself how incredibly endearing she was.
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Upon reaching the carnival, the first thing I did was introduce her to the delights of carnival snacks. The array of foods was staggering - from salty to sweet, spicy to tangy, there was so much for her to try. I watched, amused, as she took her first bite of cotton candy. Her eyes went wide with surprise, and she turned to me, "Is this... a cloud?" I chuckled, explaining to her what it was, watching her eyes light up even more as she learned about this fluffy treat.
Every reaction of hers, every facial expression as she tasted something new, made my heart swell with happiness. It was like watching a child discover the joys of life, and the fact that it was Marinette, the girl I deeply cared for, made it all the more special. When I noticed some food smudged on her lips, without thinking, I reached out, gently wiping it away. She paused, giving me that warm smile of hers, making me feel like I was the only person in the world.
We played numerous games - I was particularly proud when I won her a plush Robin doll, and when she presented me with a ladybug doll she'd won, I couldn't hide my amusement. We carried our dolls around the carnival, drawing curious glances and smiles from passersby.
The haunted house was an unexpected adventure. The moment eerie sounds echoed, Marinette clung to me, her grip tightening with every jump scare. It was a mix of terror and thrill, and though she was scared, she laughed it off later, teasing me about a particular moment where even I had jumped in surprise.
As our day was drawing to a close, a photo booth caught my eye. Without a second thought, I pulled her in. The series of flashes captured our moments - from silly faces to endearing smiles. When the strip of photos printed out, I held it in my hand, looking at our captured memories. It was a perfect representation of our day - full of fun, surprises, and shared moments.
Tucking the photos safely into my wallet, I made a silent promise. No matter where life took us, I would always carry this memory with me, a reminder of the day the girl I cherished rediscovered the world and, in the process, made me fall for her all over again.
There were moments, of course, when the weight of the chain reminded me of our reality. Like when a kid pointed at our chained hands, asking innocently, "Are you playing prisoners?" Or when a vendor hesitated, noticing our unusual bond. But every time, Marinette's laughter or the slight squeeze of her hand reassured me. We were in this together.
Starfire won a giant stuffed alien at a shooting game, Beast Boy tried, in vain, to resist turning into an animal during the 'Test Your Strength' game, and Raven, well, she found solace in a quiet corner with a book, though I swear I saw her sneaking glances at a fortune teller's tent.
As the day transitioned into evening, Marinette and I found ourselves by the lake, the lights of the carnival reflecting in the waters. "Thank you, Damian," she whispered, her head resting on my shoulder, "Today felt... normal."
I looked at our chained hands, then at her. "Marinette, with you, every moment, chained or free, feels right."
And in the glow of the carnival lights, amidst the laughter and joy of Gotham's residents, we found our moment of peace, bound together by a chain that signified so much more than restraint. It symbolized unity, love, and a promise to face all challenges together.
So what do you all think about this story? Please share, like and comment. I'll see you all in the next chapter Bye... 😘😘
