Thomas sat at the head of the table reading a newspaper, his favorite, the Gotham Docks Evening Post. His hawk-sharp gaze scrutinized every word of the front-page headline.
It brought back memories of Batman's childhood. Nearly every morning and evening, whenever he left his room, he would see Thomas holding a newspaper.
Martha was at the dining room entrance confirming the state of the meal with Alfred. Soon, she walked over, nodded to everyone, and said, "Dinner starts in ten minutes. Children, go get your companions. Don't let the food wait too long."
"I bet Dick is rushing to finish his homework again, and those two are helping him get it done before the deadline so he can survive my inspection after dinner," Thomas said without looking up.
The three Robins Batman had brought down took their seats one after another. Tim ran upstairs to call the other two, while Batman walked to the seat across from Bruce but did not sit down right away.
Bruce was arranging his napkin, reaching both hands behind his neck for the knot he had tied there. He seemed to want to undo it and tie it again, but after fumbling for a while, he still could not reach it.
Martha walked over and stood behind his chair, helping him untie the napkin. Bruce turned and smiled at her. "Thank you, Mom."
Martha lightly patted the back of his chair and walked away with a smile. Bruce retied the napkin he had removed, and the movement drew a glance from Thomas.
"Go check upstairs." The imposing head of the household returned his gaze to the newspaper.
Bruce nodded, rose from his chair, and started to leave. Thomas let out a sigh and looked at him. "Don't take your napkin somewhere else. That's very unhygienic."