He spent some time introducing Raka Jon to Maroni, but the man's expression only grew uglier.
Clearly, even though Maroni wanted political protection, he had no respect for Raka, who had grown up in the slums and had neither connections nor influence.
"You might as well dump a whole crate of cash into the Gotham River. Your suggestion amounts to the same thing."
Maroni understood that the other candidates had no shortage of sponsors and would never accept funding from a gang, but he was even less willing to bet his money on an idiot who was destined to lose the election.
He did not even give William a chance to persuade him.
"I thought you were a smart kid. Get out of here and crawl back to your dump to reflect on your stupidity."
Even with his favorability maxed out, Maroni's hopelessly arrogant nature remained unchanged. Once he made up his mind, no one could talk him out of it.
Shortsighted idiot!
William left the Glacier Club, muttering under his breath.
The following night, William disguised himself and headed to Alfred's little tavern.
He had arranged with the old butler to begin training that night. He did not expect to build a physique like Batman's, but he at least wanted to stop getting beaten black and blue by Gordon.
A wet motorcycle stood outside the tavern. William recognized Casey's license plate.
Just then, the tavern door swung open, and Batgirl stepped out in a workout tank top.
Her damp hair clung to her forehead, and glistening beads of sweat on her abdomen caught the glow of the neon sign.
How could he put it? William had always thought of Casey as an easygoing, tomboyish girl. Maybe her workout had unleashed her hormones, because tonight he actually felt she radiated