Colin Wilkes

“Try-outs are next Friday so… I’ve got time to practice to be an official member.”

“… @ttriumph.bsky.social. Hockey is… pretty fun.”

“…Fine. But I’m only doing this cause you asked. Not because I think it’s a good idea,” he jabbed a finger into Damian’s chest, sticking out his tongue in mock-disgust.

Colin scanned over Damian face but found only that same desire to care, to help. “Fine. But if it I hate it, I’m dropping out.”

“Sports? What, am I supposed to just try them all and see if one of them sticks?” He gave Damian a frown. “You don’t even like sports.”

“Dami.

No college is going to accept me. I can’t get scholarships with my grades. So why would I waste time on it?

The city needs Abuse more than it needs Colin.”

“I can do both. It won’t be a problem.” Though, it was a good point.

“What do you mean drain me?”

“June.” He offered.

“Does it matter?” But knowing that Damian would keep pressing for answers, he continued, “I’m not good at it. I’m tired of spending my days doing something that I’m going to fail at anyways.

If I drop out, Abuse can get a job as a bouncer or a guard… you know?”

“No, I’m fine. Sleep can wait.” A pause. “I wanted to talk to you about something. Nightwing seemed to think you’d care.

As soon as my birthday hits, I’m dropping out of high school.”

“Hm? Oh, uh, yeah. Sorry.

Been on patrol the last two nights… not much time for sleep.”

… I just saw a flying monkey.

She’s got cool hair.

“House of the Dead 4.”

What’s wrong with that?

Arcade.

I try.

Oh.

Uh, probably their houses.

Hey, you’re the one who got confused about where kids came from.

Exactly.

I thought that was obvious.

They do… that stuff.

So, when a mommy loves a daddy…

“Y’all are weird.”

Jeez. Watch out, Gotham.

…that’s true.

Probably, but I am the only one allowed to make fun of him.

Hey, watch it.

Where’s Damian when you need him?

He can still be a friend.

But Abuse is more important. He makes a difference.