Everyday Hero

Family Problems

No, it's not the family you probably thought of first...
_______________________________________

"Ah, leaving already Mr. Wayne?"

James had stopped Bruce right outside of Dick's door.

He had a suspicion...

"Ah yes, important business to deal with--"

"Quite a bruise you have there Mr. Wayne, wasn't there last night I believe."

He was referring to a bruise covering part of his forehead. It was an angry looking one, usually seen on those who come in from accidents.

Or fights.

It would only make sense after all...

Bruce's face remained indifferent.

"Just a tumble down the stairs yesterday, I haven't slept very well lately. Now if you'll excuse me, I really need to leave."

James glanced to above Bruce's head to where a clock was.

It was 8:00pm.

"Of course, have a good night Mr. Wayne."

James watch him go before raising an eyebrow in thought.

Left every single night at the same time for a week now...

James sighed softly through his nose before entering Dick's room.

He was sleeping. He seemed to do that a lot lately.

Well, what else could he really do?

James quietly closed the door behind him so as to not wake him up.

Let him sleep.

Only time he looks peaceful now.

He walked to the foot of his bed before just gazing at him.

Gazing... at his problem.

What the hell was he going to do?

He was the only staff member who knew who this man really was.

A hero.

The pressure was already there. But now... he couldn't help but feel that if he couldn't find a way to help Dick...

That he wouldn't be the only one losing part of his life.

Physical therapy might help... but there's no guarantee he'll ever be able to regain control. The trauma was more than enough to be fatal.

Dick was given a week to rest. Well, the week's nearly done.

Time to figure something out.

He glanced toward the duffel bag.

They had already helped Dick change into his own clothes.

He couldn't help but notice how the young man's eyes followed their every movement so intensely.

He didn't want them discovering his weapon.

Well, too late for that.

He was about to check his IV bag when a buzzing came from his pocket.

It wasn't his pager, it was his cellphone.

He looked at the number sadly before hesitantly answering.

"Hey Mara--"

"Are you coming home tonight James?"

He closed his eyes tightly.