Chapter Text
Bruce coughed. His lungs constricted and the dryness burned along his ribs. His attempt to take in air was cut off by a sharp, bloody wheeze.
At least the stars were out. At least the air was crisp.
He wiped away the blood from his nose.
Maybe he could close his eyes for a few minutes. Maybe sleep would help the aches go away.
But he wasn’t done yet.
Get up.
He looked down at his chest — at the baby tied against him. It was asleep, though Bruce did not know how.
Get. Up.
He tried. The pain. It blinded him. It seared into him like a brand.
Get up.
He clamped a hand over the baby’s ear.
He screamed.