Work Text:
He found Bruce on a little used back balcony that overlooked a wooded area of the estate.
“The doctor says he’s going to be okay.”
Alfred had gotten ill with influenza, something that was a worry for a man of his age.
“I know,” said Bruce, “I just couldn't... “
“I know, I get it.”
Dick turned, leaning back against the balcony's railing, letting the quiet of the evening envelope them for a moment.
“You know, the others they see Alfred as a kind of honorary grandfather, but for me, I see him more like a father figure. I see you like that sometimes too,” said Dick glancing at Bruce, “but other times, I think of you more like an older brother, or a weirdly co-dependant friend.”
Bruce raised an eyebrow at that.
“Sorry, that probably didn’t sound right, I just... I just don’t know how to label it, my relationship with you, or with Alfred.”
“I understand, and... maybe it doesn’t need a label.”
“Maybe, but I wish there was some way to convey how important you both are to me.”
“Dick,” said Bruce, putting a hand on his shoulder, “you being here when we need you says it all.”