Amid the light and shadows stood a tall, powerfully built young man.
The lights fell on him, revealing short black hair with two fashionably rebellious silver-white streaks at his forehead, stern features, broad shoulders, and narrow hips. He wore the same bespoke suit favored by the Wayne Family, but on him, it had less of a wealthy young gentleman's elegance and more of a carefree, untamed air.
Bruce still had his hand extended, his voice gentle. "Jason, come here. Let everyone get a look at you."
Jason so rarely saw the old man wearing that expression that the corners of his mouth twitched uncontrollably. He nearly wanted to turn around, leave, and never show his face again.
Seeing Jason hesitate, Bruce urged him with a smile. "Come on, my boy. Be brave. Don't be shy."
Shy, my ass! Just you wait, old man!
Jimmy quietly whispered into Clark's ear. "Which eye did Mr. Wayne use to decide he was shy? I feel like that young man could kill me with his glare."
Clark had no answer. He could only reply softly, "Jimmy, quiet. You should get ready to take pictures."
"You're right."
Jason ground his teeth, but ultimately forced down the urge to turn around and leave, walking mechanically onto the stage.
Before he could even settle into place, Jason was enveloped in a warm embrace. Though he had prepared himself, he still stiffened for a moment. Only after a long hesitation did he raise his arms and lightly hug Bruce back.
For a moment, the sounds of cameras clicking and flashes firing filled the room. Everyone knew perfectly well that the photo originally slated for tomorrow's headlines-the Mayor and Mr. Wayne smiling as they shook hands-would likely be replaced by this long-awaited embrace between father and son.
After a