superbatexchange (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
superbatexchange) wrote2019-12-11 07:26 pm
superbatexchange) wrote2019-12-11 07:26 pm
Entry tags:
Gift for participants of Superbat Exchange by Super Petsy
Title: Protective Bat Family
Author: Super Petsy
Rating: General
Summary: An alpha Clark is meeting up with Bruce's family, all who are alpha. All who are very protective of Bruce
Warnings: a/b/o
Bruce piloted the spaceship while Superman sat right beside him. Superman stared out into the dozens of comets flying past them, his chin resting snugly in the palm of his hand. There was a worried frown on his face.
They had just finished helping the Green Lanterns on a particularly strange mission—one that had required them to leave planet Earth. An entire alien planet was on the brick of destruction, and the situation had gotten so bad that John Stewart reached out to them personally to ask for aid. After saving their world, they left the aliens in capable hands. The grateful residents of the saved planet hosted a big party in their honor. There had been music, dancing and food. The Green Lanterns seemed familiar with the culture there, unlike Batman and Superman, who awkwardly accepted the party just to avoid being rude. John tried to get them to eat a strange dish that he insisted was delicious. But neither Bruce nor Clark were eager to try the dish that had weirdly resembled live intestines. They’d leave that amount of gumption to the willpower-loving Green Lanterns. Fortunately, Bruce had a good excuse to get out of it. He and Clark were meeting Bruce’s family for dinner, so he informed John that neither of them wanted to spoil their appetite.
So now here they were, traveling back to their own planet where familiar food was waiting for them. Bruce ventured a glance in his new lover’s direction.
“Everything okay? You look nervous.”
Startled out of his thoughts, Clark feigned a smile at Bruce, “Why do you say that?”
“Because you’re destroying our gift,” he stared at the figurine in Clark’s hand, or the remains of it. When the aliens had found out their two heroes were lovers, they had given it to them, saying it was a good luck charm for their relationship. It had originally looked like their god of love. Now, thanks to Clark’s nervous and powerful grip, it was just bent up metal.
“Oh crap! I am so sorry, Bruce. I can fly back and get another one—”
“—Don’t,” Bruce hated it when the alpha overreacted. Omegas could secrete a scent to calm any nearby alpha. This was nature’s way to keep its natural aggressors at ease. As soon as Clark smelled the sweet smell of licorice, he took in a deep breath. Once he was calm, Bruce continued, “Now tell me what’s wrong.”
Clark’s scent reminded Bruce faintly of blueberries and strawberries mixed together. Whenever it was really powerful, like during one of Clark’s ruts, Bruce turned into a horny rabid dog. But this was only when Clark was exuding confidence. Right now, however, Bruce could smell the worry coming from him. Clark couldn’t hide his true feelings.
“I guess….I’m worried about dinner. And how your family will handle a new alpha in the house.”
Bruce did a doubletake, “What? Alfred and the boys will be thrilled to meet you. You’ve been Dick’s favorite hero since he was a child. I’ll even admit that I was a little jealous at times. He always asked for your merchandise on Christmas.”
Superman chuckled at that, but it was forced. Soon he was back to looking somber.
“Listen, Bruce. I’ve dated plenty of times in my life. In my experience, families get a little protective over your sex.”
“Maybe they were a hundred years ago. You know? Back before omegas could be doctors?” Bruce frowned at the notion that his family wasn’t progressive. Truth be told, sometimes Alfred was a little traditional, saying things like no self-respecting omega would be out fighting thugs with little more than his bare hands. But Bruce knew his butler only wanted what was best for him, so he was never too upset when he heard him say that. And other than that, his entire family never bow down to social norms.
Alfred and both the Robins were alpha. Maybe that was the reason for Clark’s distress.
Clark looked him in the eye, “I didn’t mean it that way, Bruce. It’s just….if you were my family, I’d be protective too. You don’t understand the way we alphas lose our heads. We can’t….I just want to be good enough for you.”
“Clark, if you’re insinuating that they’ll hate you, then you’re wrong. My family knows all about your heroic deeds. Trust me. They’ll welcome you with open arms.”
The night sky enveloped all of Gotham, making the perfect cover for the mini spaceship. Bruce managed to park undetected in front of Wayne Manor. When they got out, Bruce pressed a button. The ground opened up from underneath the vehicle, swallowing it to some unknown location and then closing up as if it was never really there.
Clark whistled.
“I’m jealous of your toys, Bruce.”
Just like he planned, Bruce sent him a rather cute glare, “How many times have I told you to stop calling my tools that?”
Clark hooked their arms together, pulling Bruce close to his side. The smile on his face was mischievous.
“About as many times as you called me forgetful, Baby Bat.”
“And I take it you’ve forgotten you’re not supposed to call me that?”
Clark let out a hearty laugh. Bruce rolled his eyes. He wasn’t really all that annoyed. As a matter of fact, it was a relief to see Clark acting cheerful. Maybe he realized that there was nothing to worry about.
They entered the front door and stepped inside.
“Good day, Master Bruce,” Alfred showed up with a feather duster and an apron, “The boys are training right now.”
“You’ll love Dick and Jason. They look up to Superman,” Bruce told Clark.
Alfred paused, opened his mouth to say something, but thought better of it. Bruce noticed him eyeing Clark very warily. Clark noticed it too, if him nervously shifting his feet was any indication. Alfred turned to the master of the house.
“I suggest you go get change. I will not feed someone dressed like it’s Halloween.”
Bruce turned to Clark, “Forgot to mention. Alfred doesn’t like costumes during ‘family time.’ Come with me. I think we’re about the same size so my clothes will….”
“Absolutely not!” Alfred barked. It caught Bruce off guard. Clark stood nervously off to the side, while Alfred glared at the Kryptonian like he was a misbehaving child. Alfred then looked at Bruce, “You know better than to have a random alpha dress in your clothes. Your scent has lingered on them. It might rile him up and then he’d act inappropriately during dinner.”
Bruce couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “Alfred! Just because he’s an alpha—”
“—I will escort him to my room. I have spare clothes he can use.”
Clark tried to offer a friendly smile, but Alfred’s cold stare was wearing him down. The old man made it a point to get between them. And any time Clark tried to get closer to his lover, Alfred managed to block his way. Alfred’s pinecone scent was flaring out of aggressive energy. It was a way of establishing dominance. The other alpha had too choices to make, either take it as a challenge or relent.
Clark’s scent turned non-existent, his way of showing that he would not fight Alfred on this. The blush on his face showed Bruce that he felt utterly humiliated at having his ass handed to him by an old man. Even though Bruce was progressive, he knew it was in an alpha’s biological makeup to want to fight for an omega. Clark was fighting his instincts by not going all caveman on this. As if to pour salt on the wound, Alfred motioned Clark to follow with his finger, as if he was a tamed animal. Bruce could only watch as his boyfriend was completely emasculated by his father figure.
Tomorrow, Bruce was going to have a talk with Alfred.
Xxxxxxxx
To his credit, Clark looked devilishly handsome in Alfred’s old petticoat and brown leggings. Bruce met him out in the hallway, wearing a plain white shirt with a pen in his front pocket. He gave Clark a very rare smile, causing the alpha to smirk back, his confidence restoring.
Clark grabbed the small of Bruce’s back and pulled him in for a deep kiss. Bruce allowed him full control, his way of apologizing for Alfred’s behavior. Besides, sometimes Bruce was….okay with letting Clark take control. But only sometimes.
They were so passionately entwined that they didn’t notice they had an audience until they heard him coughing. Bruce yanked away from Clark in embarrassment.
Dick shot him an amused smirk, albeit it was a little tighter than Bruce was used to seeing. He was the more upbeat of Bruce’s two sons, so seeing him force a smile looked strange. The boy—age 22 but still very much a boy to Bruce—glanced at Clark.
“Hey. I’m Dick Grayson. So you’re Superman, huh? You know. You used to be my favorite hero.”
Oh no. Bruce could already detect an edge in Dick’s voice. Like Alfred, he was itching for a fight. Bruce couldn’t believe that, for once, Clark had been right.
Clark took the bait, “Used to be? What changed?”
“You got with my dad. I guess even Superman likes digging for gold.”
Clark froze and for a moment he looked ready to fight. Dick sent him a chilling look of his own, while his apple scent flared up for battle. They stood very close to each other, trying to tower the other in dominance.
Bruce shot Clark a pleading look. It must’ve taken all of his willpower, but Clark stepped down.
“I would never use Bruce like that,” Clark mumbled, looking humiliated. Bruce decided to intervene this time. He stepped in between the two men and gave his son a cold stare.
“Apologize to Clark.”
“Bruce, I’m just trying to keep you from being used.”
“I do NOT need your help for that, young man. Now apologize.”
Bruce tried to be aggressive. Part of him hoped he could use his scent as a combative tactic too. But being an omega, a flaring scent would either calm any nearby alpha or (in Clark’s case) arouse them. Sometimes Bruce wished he was an alpha. The calming affect wasn’t nearly as effective or intimidating, especially when he’s trying to take control of the situation.
Dick frowned passed him and right at Clark, “Admit it. You just want him for his money. Or maybe his looks? I don’t know which. But I know you’re just so used to trophy omegas that you thought you could just come in here and swoop Bruce off his feet.”
“That’s not it at all!” Clark’s protest fell on deaf ears.
Dick was calming down when he smelled his dad’s maternal scent. But, as if turning a switch, he ignited his own scent at full force. His dominating smell assaulted their senses with something resembling fresh twigs and morning dew. Clark backed away while Dick came closer. He pulled out his weapon and jabbed it in Clark’s chest.
“Prove it. If you didn’t really come for an easy buck, then you’ll be happy to spar with me.”
Bruce looked ready to pop a blood vessel, “What does sparring have to do with ANYTHING?”
“It’s just a challenge, Bruce. Like how you challenge me to prove myself. Besides, I want to see how Superman fights first-hand.”
“Why?” Clark asked.
“Listen, you’re planning on fighting by my dad’s side, right? Well, I need to know how well you handle yourself out on the battlefield. Just because you have powers, doesn’t mean you’re capable.”
Clark seemed to catch onto Nightwing’s crazy logic, “You want to see if I can protect your dad? You got it.”
Bruce bit his inner lip to keep from speaking. It was so embarrassing to have your child act like you were a fragile human being in need of protection. Bruce had taught the boy how to apprehend a man twice his size for goodness sakes! And why was Clark encouraging this mindset? Bruce shot a nasty look at his lover. Clark caught it, but pretended not to notice, instead keeping his eyes on Dick. Bruce sighed and stepped away. He would need to give them room.
Dick swiveled around for a roundhouse kick. It caught Clark off guard, surprising the alien with its brute force. No doubt he thought a human as young as Dick would hit a little bit lighter. Clark was flown into the wall. He barely dodged a second attack from Dick, this being a punch that broke a light fixture. Bruce winced but didn’t interfere. He would have to prepare himself for the upcoming bills.
“Wait. I thought we were going to go outside to do this!” Clark yelped, blocking one punch and another.
Dick wasn’t even the slightest bit out of breath, “If you want to prove your skills, you got to be prepared to fight at all times. And if you lose to me, you really suck. Ice breath, super strength, flight. And you can’t. Handle. One. Normal. Punch.”
Clark was clearly holding back. As a matter of fact, he wasn’t even throwing a punch. But Dick wasn’t someone to underestimate, as Bruce knew all too well. The boy pulled out a mini staff and slammed it against Clark’s chest. To Bruce’s shock, Clark fell to the floor instantly. It took him a second to figure out why. The staff that Dick used was made of kryptonite. Dick sheathed it safely back in its lead covering. Clark stared up at him, half weak and half humiliated in front of Bruce.
“That’s…not fair.”
Dick threw his head back and laughed. He shook his head at Bruce.
“This is the guy you saddled yourself up with? Not fair? What is he, six?”
Bruce had had enough. He clenched his teeth together to keep himself from screaming and pointed in the direction of Dick’s old room.
“Change into normal clothes. Stay in your room until dinner. Write a 10,000-word apology letter to Clark Kent and hand it to him by midnight.”
It felt good to see the way Dick’s jaw dropped. Bruce knew that Dick wouldn’t disobey. The boy knew better. Dick glared at Clark one final time, as if he was the one responsible for getting him into trouble. Grumbling, Dick stomped away. Bruce had to suppress a tired sigh. Even though he was a grown adult, Dick still acted very much like a child.
Once his son was gone, Bruce turned his attention on Clark. He helped him to his feet, waiting for him to get his strength back before pulling away. Kryptonite had an effect that made Clark as weak as a lamb, but once it was gone, Clark gradually recovered.
“Sorry, Clark. I have no idea where he even got that.”
“It’s alright, Bruce,” Clark frowned. It seemed the only thing that hurt now was his pride. No doubt he had wanted to impress Bruce with his fighting skill, but Dick had caught him off guard with the surprise attack, “10,000 words? That’s kinda harsh, don’t you think?”
“Dick can do it. He’s handled papers like that every other night at private school.”
“And you still had him patrol with you? I guess your entire family hates sleep as much as you do.”
Bruce smiled at that. At least Clark wasn’t pouting at his defeat. Perhaps Dick wanted to see how Clark would react with failure. It wasn’t uncommon for an alpha to be upset after being humiliated like that. But Clark was different. And Bruce hoped the others would find out soon.
Alfred and Dick had both behaved poorly. It was ironic that Jason was the one that Bruce had been most worried about. Now Bruce wanted to introduce Jason to Clark more than ever. He desperately wanted someone to welcome his alpha with open arms. And since Alfred and Dick had an unexpected reaction to Clark coming over, maybe Jason had one too—albeit a much more positive one.
It was worth a shot.
“If I know my second son, he’s out in the gaming area,” Bruce motioned for Clark to follow.
“He likes video games?”
“Something like that.”
Jason Todd wore the latest in gaming technology. His helmet covered his eyes, while he held his toy guns in both his hands. Bruce and him had spent long nights arguing about his use of guns until they came up with a few compromises. One: Jason never killed with them. And two: training in Bruce’s home required fake weapons. No exceptions.
Clark watched in awe. Even he could tell this wasn’t just a teenager enjoying his video games. This was something much more intense. Jason’s shirt was soaked with sweat after spending all of his time jumping around to dodge imaginary bullets.
Bruce went up to the main computer and pressed a button. Jason groaned when he saw his fake opponents disappear into the void. He shrugged the helmet off and glared at his adoptive father.
“You could just say hi, instead of turning everything off when I’m in the zone.”
Bruce nodded in Clark’s direction, “Jason, this is my alpha friend. Say hello.”
Jason put the helmet away, brushed his hair out of his eyes and approached Clark. Clark held out a hand for him to shake, but Jason ignored it. He chose to stand in front of Clark in a way that was very familiar at this point. Another stand-off?
Clark frowned. Jason took a long time to inspect him, as if trying to pinpoint the tiniest flaw to harp on him for.
Then, out of nowhere, Jason grinned at him like he was an old friend. It caught both Bruce and Clark off guard.
“I’ve always wanted to meet you. You know, Dick was the fanboy in the family, but I think I was the most excited to hear that Bruce was dating Superman.”
“Really?” Clark asked hopefully. From off to the side, Bruce smiled with relief. He knew that at least one member of his family wouldn’t let him down.
“Sure! It’s not everyday you get to see the Man of Steel. Bruce had some celebrity crushes before, but nobody like you.”
“I’m not…really a celebrity.”
“Hey, whatever you say, man. But really, glad to finally meet you. I knew Bruce would find at least one alpha that’s trustworthy,” Jason opened his arms out, stunning Bruce, “Hug?”
Something felt wrong. Bruce knew that Jason wasn’t the hugging type. Even when he was a little kid he scoffed at affection. The fact that he was initiating a hug was immediately suspicious. The trusting Clark had no idea that Jason was playing him like a fiddle. He must’ve been too relieved that someone was giving him a chance to question Jason’s true intentions.
He eagerly wrapped his arms around Jason. They were both quiet…..and then….
Clark let out a shriek and pushed Jason away. Bruce rushed toward to see what the problem was. Clark’s face had lost all of its color. He stared at the stone in Jason’s hand, trying to shield himself from its green glow. Although Bruce was omega, he had the natural protective instincts of an alpha. He got between Jason and his lover, ready to pin down Jason and get the kryptonite away.
When Jason burst out laughing, Bruce had to stop himself from smacking the boy. How could he laugh when he was deliberately trying to hurt Clark like that? It was one thing to use it as a surprise weapon like Dick had, it’s another to do this.
“Relax, Bruce. It’s fake. See?” Jason approached the cowering Clark. After a beat, Clark straightened up, realizing that the glow wasn’t affecting him. Jason laughed again, “I didn’t know Superman was such a wuss.
End
Author: Super Petsy
Rating: General
Summary: An alpha Clark is meeting up with Bruce's family, all who are alpha. All who are very protective of Bruce
Warnings: a/b/o
Bruce piloted the spaceship while Superman sat right beside him. Superman stared out into the dozens of comets flying past them, his chin resting snugly in the palm of his hand. There was a worried frown on his face.
They had just finished helping the Green Lanterns on a particularly strange mission—one that had required them to leave planet Earth. An entire alien planet was on the brick of destruction, and the situation had gotten so bad that John Stewart reached out to them personally to ask for aid. After saving their world, they left the aliens in capable hands. The grateful residents of the saved planet hosted a big party in their honor. There had been music, dancing and food. The Green Lanterns seemed familiar with the culture there, unlike Batman and Superman, who awkwardly accepted the party just to avoid being rude. John tried to get them to eat a strange dish that he insisted was delicious. But neither Bruce nor Clark were eager to try the dish that had weirdly resembled live intestines. They’d leave that amount of gumption to the willpower-loving Green Lanterns. Fortunately, Bruce had a good excuse to get out of it. He and Clark were meeting Bruce’s family for dinner, so he informed John that neither of them wanted to spoil their appetite.
So now here they were, traveling back to their own planet where familiar food was waiting for them. Bruce ventured a glance in his new lover’s direction.
“Everything okay? You look nervous.”
Startled out of his thoughts, Clark feigned a smile at Bruce, “Why do you say that?”
“Because you’re destroying our gift,” he stared at the figurine in Clark’s hand, or the remains of it. When the aliens had found out their two heroes were lovers, they had given it to them, saying it was a good luck charm for their relationship. It had originally looked like their god of love. Now, thanks to Clark’s nervous and powerful grip, it was just bent up metal.
“Oh crap! I am so sorry, Bruce. I can fly back and get another one—”
“—Don’t,” Bruce hated it when the alpha overreacted. Omegas could secrete a scent to calm any nearby alpha. This was nature’s way to keep its natural aggressors at ease. As soon as Clark smelled the sweet smell of licorice, he took in a deep breath. Once he was calm, Bruce continued, “Now tell me what’s wrong.”
Clark’s scent reminded Bruce faintly of blueberries and strawberries mixed together. Whenever it was really powerful, like during one of Clark’s ruts, Bruce turned into a horny rabid dog. But this was only when Clark was exuding confidence. Right now, however, Bruce could smell the worry coming from him. Clark couldn’t hide his true feelings.
“I guess….I’m worried about dinner. And how your family will handle a new alpha in the house.”
Bruce did a doubletake, “What? Alfred and the boys will be thrilled to meet you. You’ve been Dick’s favorite hero since he was a child. I’ll even admit that I was a little jealous at times. He always asked for your merchandise on Christmas.”
Superman chuckled at that, but it was forced. Soon he was back to looking somber.
“Listen, Bruce. I’ve dated plenty of times in my life. In my experience, families get a little protective over your sex.”
“Maybe they were a hundred years ago. You know? Back before omegas could be doctors?” Bruce frowned at the notion that his family wasn’t progressive. Truth be told, sometimes Alfred was a little traditional, saying things like no self-respecting omega would be out fighting thugs with little more than his bare hands. But Bruce knew his butler only wanted what was best for him, so he was never too upset when he heard him say that. And other than that, his entire family never bow down to social norms.
Alfred and both the Robins were alpha. Maybe that was the reason for Clark’s distress.
Clark looked him in the eye, “I didn’t mean it that way, Bruce. It’s just….if you were my family, I’d be protective too. You don’t understand the way we alphas lose our heads. We can’t….I just want to be good enough for you.”
“Clark, if you’re insinuating that they’ll hate you, then you’re wrong. My family knows all about your heroic deeds. Trust me. They’ll welcome you with open arms.”
The night sky enveloped all of Gotham, making the perfect cover for the mini spaceship. Bruce managed to park undetected in front of Wayne Manor. When they got out, Bruce pressed a button. The ground opened up from underneath the vehicle, swallowing it to some unknown location and then closing up as if it was never really there.
Clark whistled.
“I’m jealous of your toys, Bruce.”
Just like he planned, Bruce sent him a rather cute glare, “How many times have I told you to stop calling my tools that?”
Clark hooked their arms together, pulling Bruce close to his side. The smile on his face was mischievous.
“About as many times as you called me forgetful, Baby Bat.”
“And I take it you’ve forgotten you’re not supposed to call me that?”
Clark let out a hearty laugh. Bruce rolled his eyes. He wasn’t really all that annoyed. As a matter of fact, it was a relief to see Clark acting cheerful. Maybe he realized that there was nothing to worry about.
They entered the front door and stepped inside.
“Good day, Master Bruce,” Alfred showed up with a feather duster and an apron, “The boys are training right now.”
“You’ll love Dick and Jason. They look up to Superman,” Bruce told Clark.
Alfred paused, opened his mouth to say something, but thought better of it. Bruce noticed him eyeing Clark very warily. Clark noticed it too, if him nervously shifting his feet was any indication. Alfred turned to the master of the house.
“I suggest you go get change. I will not feed someone dressed like it’s Halloween.”
Bruce turned to Clark, “Forgot to mention. Alfred doesn’t like costumes during ‘family time.’ Come with me. I think we’re about the same size so my clothes will….”
“Absolutely not!” Alfred barked. It caught Bruce off guard. Clark stood nervously off to the side, while Alfred glared at the Kryptonian like he was a misbehaving child. Alfred then looked at Bruce, “You know better than to have a random alpha dress in your clothes. Your scent has lingered on them. It might rile him up and then he’d act inappropriately during dinner.”
Bruce couldn’t believe what he was hearing, “Alfred! Just because he’s an alpha—”
“—I will escort him to my room. I have spare clothes he can use.”
Clark tried to offer a friendly smile, but Alfred’s cold stare was wearing him down. The old man made it a point to get between them. And any time Clark tried to get closer to his lover, Alfred managed to block his way. Alfred’s pinecone scent was flaring out of aggressive energy. It was a way of establishing dominance. The other alpha had too choices to make, either take it as a challenge or relent.
Clark’s scent turned non-existent, his way of showing that he would not fight Alfred on this. The blush on his face showed Bruce that he felt utterly humiliated at having his ass handed to him by an old man. Even though Bruce was progressive, he knew it was in an alpha’s biological makeup to want to fight for an omega. Clark was fighting his instincts by not going all caveman on this. As if to pour salt on the wound, Alfred motioned Clark to follow with his finger, as if he was a tamed animal. Bruce could only watch as his boyfriend was completely emasculated by his father figure.
Tomorrow, Bruce was going to have a talk with Alfred.
Xxxxxxxx
To his credit, Clark looked devilishly handsome in Alfred’s old petticoat and brown leggings. Bruce met him out in the hallway, wearing a plain white shirt with a pen in his front pocket. He gave Clark a very rare smile, causing the alpha to smirk back, his confidence restoring.
Clark grabbed the small of Bruce’s back and pulled him in for a deep kiss. Bruce allowed him full control, his way of apologizing for Alfred’s behavior. Besides, sometimes Bruce was….okay with letting Clark take control. But only sometimes.
They were so passionately entwined that they didn’t notice they had an audience until they heard him coughing. Bruce yanked away from Clark in embarrassment.
Dick shot him an amused smirk, albeit it was a little tighter than Bruce was used to seeing. He was the more upbeat of Bruce’s two sons, so seeing him force a smile looked strange. The boy—age 22 but still very much a boy to Bruce—glanced at Clark.
“Hey. I’m Dick Grayson. So you’re Superman, huh? You know. You used to be my favorite hero.”
Oh no. Bruce could already detect an edge in Dick’s voice. Like Alfred, he was itching for a fight. Bruce couldn’t believe that, for once, Clark had been right.
Clark took the bait, “Used to be? What changed?”
“You got with my dad. I guess even Superman likes digging for gold.”
Clark froze and for a moment he looked ready to fight. Dick sent him a chilling look of his own, while his apple scent flared up for battle. They stood very close to each other, trying to tower the other in dominance.
Bruce shot Clark a pleading look. It must’ve taken all of his willpower, but Clark stepped down.
“I would never use Bruce like that,” Clark mumbled, looking humiliated. Bruce decided to intervene this time. He stepped in between the two men and gave his son a cold stare.
“Apologize to Clark.”
“Bruce, I’m just trying to keep you from being used.”
“I do NOT need your help for that, young man. Now apologize.”
Bruce tried to be aggressive. Part of him hoped he could use his scent as a combative tactic too. But being an omega, a flaring scent would either calm any nearby alpha or (in Clark’s case) arouse them. Sometimes Bruce wished he was an alpha. The calming affect wasn’t nearly as effective or intimidating, especially when he’s trying to take control of the situation.
Dick frowned passed him and right at Clark, “Admit it. You just want him for his money. Or maybe his looks? I don’t know which. But I know you’re just so used to trophy omegas that you thought you could just come in here and swoop Bruce off his feet.”
“That’s not it at all!” Clark’s protest fell on deaf ears.
Dick was calming down when he smelled his dad’s maternal scent. But, as if turning a switch, he ignited his own scent at full force. His dominating smell assaulted their senses with something resembling fresh twigs and morning dew. Clark backed away while Dick came closer. He pulled out his weapon and jabbed it in Clark’s chest.
“Prove it. If you didn’t really come for an easy buck, then you’ll be happy to spar with me.”
Bruce looked ready to pop a blood vessel, “What does sparring have to do with ANYTHING?”
“It’s just a challenge, Bruce. Like how you challenge me to prove myself. Besides, I want to see how Superman fights first-hand.”
“Why?” Clark asked.
“Listen, you’re planning on fighting by my dad’s side, right? Well, I need to know how well you handle yourself out on the battlefield. Just because you have powers, doesn’t mean you’re capable.”
Clark seemed to catch onto Nightwing’s crazy logic, “You want to see if I can protect your dad? You got it.”
Bruce bit his inner lip to keep from speaking. It was so embarrassing to have your child act like you were a fragile human being in need of protection. Bruce had taught the boy how to apprehend a man twice his size for goodness sakes! And why was Clark encouraging this mindset? Bruce shot a nasty look at his lover. Clark caught it, but pretended not to notice, instead keeping his eyes on Dick. Bruce sighed and stepped away. He would need to give them room.
Dick swiveled around for a roundhouse kick. It caught Clark off guard, surprising the alien with its brute force. No doubt he thought a human as young as Dick would hit a little bit lighter. Clark was flown into the wall. He barely dodged a second attack from Dick, this being a punch that broke a light fixture. Bruce winced but didn’t interfere. He would have to prepare himself for the upcoming bills.
“Wait. I thought we were going to go outside to do this!” Clark yelped, blocking one punch and another.
Dick wasn’t even the slightest bit out of breath, “If you want to prove your skills, you got to be prepared to fight at all times. And if you lose to me, you really suck. Ice breath, super strength, flight. And you can’t. Handle. One. Normal. Punch.”
Clark was clearly holding back. As a matter of fact, he wasn’t even throwing a punch. But Dick wasn’t someone to underestimate, as Bruce knew all too well. The boy pulled out a mini staff and slammed it against Clark’s chest. To Bruce’s shock, Clark fell to the floor instantly. It took him a second to figure out why. The staff that Dick used was made of kryptonite. Dick sheathed it safely back in its lead covering. Clark stared up at him, half weak and half humiliated in front of Bruce.
“That’s…not fair.”
Dick threw his head back and laughed. He shook his head at Bruce.
“This is the guy you saddled yourself up with? Not fair? What is he, six?”
Bruce had had enough. He clenched his teeth together to keep himself from screaming and pointed in the direction of Dick’s old room.
“Change into normal clothes. Stay in your room until dinner. Write a 10,000-word apology letter to Clark Kent and hand it to him by midnight.”
It felt good to see the way Dick’s jaw dropped. Bruce knew that Dick wouldn’t disobey. The boy knew better. Dick glared at Clark one final time, as if he was the one responsible for getting him into trouble. Grumbling, Dick stomped away. Bruce had to suppress a tired sigh. Even though he was a grown adult, Dick still acted very much like a child.
Once his son was gone, Bruce turned his attention on Clark. He helped him to his feet, waiting for him to get his strength back before pulling away. Kryptonite had an effect that made Clark as weak as a lamb, but once it was gone, Clark gradually recovered.
“Sorry, Clark. I have no idea where he even got that.”
“It’s alright, Bruce,” Clark frowned. It seemed the only thing that hurt now was his pride. No doubt he had wanted to impress Bruce with his fighting skill, but Dick had caught him off guard with the surprise attack, “10,000 words? That’s kinda harsh, don’t you think?”
“Dick can do it. He’s handled papers like that every other night at private school.”
“And you still had him patrol with you? I guess your entire family hates sleep as much as you do.”
Bruce smiled at that. At least Clark wasn’t pouting at his defeat. Perhaps Dick wanted to see how Clark would react with failure. It wasn’t uncommon for an alpha to be upset after being humiliated like that. But Clark was different. And Bruce hoped the others would find out soon.
Alfred and Dick had both behaved poorly. It was ironic that Jason was the one that Bruce had been most worried about. Now Bruce wanted to introduce Jason to Clark more than ever. He desperately wanted someone to welcome his alpha with open arms. And since Alfred and Dick had an unexpected reaction to Clark coming over, maybe Jason had one too—albeit a much more positive one.
It was worth a shot.
“If I know my second son, he’s out in the gaming area,” Bruce motioned for Clark to follow.
“He likes video games?”
“Something like that.”
Jason Todd wore the latest in gaming technology. His helmet covered his eyes, while he held his toy guns in both his hands. Bruce and him had spent long nights arguing about his use of guns until they came up with a few compromises. One: Jason never killed with them. And two: training in Bruce’s home required fake weapons. No exceptions.
Clark watched in awe. Even he could tell this wasn’t just a teenager enjoying his video games. This was something much more intense. Jason’s shirt was soaked with sweat after spending all of his time jumping around to dodge imaginary bullets.
Bruce went up to the main computer and pressed a button. Jason groaned when he saw his fake opponents disappear into the void. He shrugged the helmet off and glared at his adoptive father.
“You could just say hi, instead of turning everything off when I’m in the zone.”
Bruce nodded in Clark’s direction, “Jason, this is my alpha friend. Say hello.”
Jason put the helmet away, brushed his hair out of his eyes and approached Clark. Clark held out a hand for him to shake, but Jason ignored it. He chose to stand in front of Clark in a way that was very familiar at this point. Another stand-off?
Clark frowned. Jason took a long time to inspect him, as if trying to pinpoint the tiniest flaw to harp on him for.
Then, out of nowhere, Jason grinned at him like he was an old friend. It caught both Bruce and Clark off guard.
“I’ve always wanted to meet you. You know, Dick was the fanboy in the family, but I think I was the most excited to hear that Bruce was dating Superman.”
“Really?” Clark asked hopefully. From off to the side, Bruce smiled with relief. He knew that at least one member of his family wouldn’t let him down.
“Sure! It’s not everyday you get to see the Man of Steel. Bruce had some celebrity crushes before, but nobody like you.”
“I’m not…really a celebrity.”
“Hey, whatever you say, man. But really, glad to finally meet you. I knew Bruce would find at least one alpha that’s trustworthy,” Jason opened his arms out, stunning Bruce, “Hug?”
Something felt wrong. Bruce knew that Jason wasn’t the hugging type. Even when he was a little kid he scoffed at affection. The fact that he was initiating a hug was immediately suspicious. The trusting Clark had no idea that Jason was playing him like a fiddle. He must’ve been too relieved that someone was giving him a chance to question Jason’s true intentions.
He eagerly wrapped his arms around Jason. They were both quiet…..and then….
Clark let out a shriek and pushed Jason away. Bruce rushed toward to see what the problem was. Clark’s face had lost all of its color. He stared at the stone in Jason’s hand, trying to shield himself from its green glow. Although Bruce was omega, he had the natural protective instincts of an alpha. He got between Jason and his lover, ready to pin down Jason and get the kryptonite away.
When Jason burst out laughing, Bruce had to stop himself from smacking the boy. How could he laugh when he was deliberately trying to hurt Clark like that? It was one thing to use it as a surprise weapon like Dick had, it’s another to do this.
“Relax, Bruce. It’s fake. See?” Jason approached the cowering Clark. After a beat, Clark straightened up, realizing that the glow wasn’t affecting him. Jason laughed again, “I didn’t know Superman was such a wuss.