Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Dick huffs at himself in the mirror, pulling off his shirt and throwing it aside before impatiently searching the wardrobe for a new one.

“Another outfit change?” Slade sighs from the bed, not looking up from his book.

“Yeah, I went too formal on top and not formal enough on the bottom. I’m thinking maybe a sweater instead. And the jeans have to go - where the hell are those slacks I wore to dinner the other day-“

Dick grumbles to himself until he locates the items of clothing he wants, changing quickly and tidying his hair again while frowning at himself in the mirror.

He’s not anxious.

Okay, maybe he’s a little anxious. It’s not that he doesn’t love hanging out with his family, but these days there’s always something that happens that just brings everything down - it might be a comment or remark, an irritated facial expression, or deliberately ignoring Slade completely. It never seems to bother Slade, but it bothers Dick. A lot.

He appreciates his family’s protectiveness, but it’s not needed and it hurts him a little that they think that it is. Slade isn’t just some random hookup or an alpha he’s dating. Slade is his husband.

And Dick has a horrible feeling that it’s only going to get worse.

“You look gorgeous,” Slade says, snapping his book shut and snapping Dick from his thoughts. “Now c’mon, or we’re gonna be late.”

Slade looks good. His shirt is unbuttoned slightly at the top, and Dick wants to straddle him and bite his collarbone.

But there’s no time for that now. There’s absolutely no way they can be late today, so Dick allows Slade to gently manoeuvre him out of the bedroom and help him locate his good shoes, and his husband even remembers to grab the small packet of sick bags they leave by the front door now.

Dick spends the whole thirty minute drive to Gotham staring out of the window, as car journeys just make him nauseous these days.

“I’ve been thinking,” Dick says slowly, fidgeting with his seat belt. “We should tell everyone our news at dinner tonight.”

He’d tactically planned to drop this idea during the car journey to give his husband as little chance as possible to argue with him.

There’s a pause.

Slade sighs, and he grips the steering wheel a little tighter. “Tonight? You want to tell everyone? All at once?”

“Yeah, why not? Rip off the band-aid. Quick and painless.”

Slade’s jaw clenches. “I don’t think that conversation is going to be either of those things. Wayne will probably be pissed that you didn’t tell him first.”

“He can be pissed all he likes. It’s our decision who to tell and when.”

“You’re only ten weeks, Dick. The advice is to wait until twelve weeks before we start telling people. We don’t want to be too hasty.”

Dick bites his lip. He knows Slade is worried. Especially after what they’ve been through. This isn’t Dick’s first pregnancy, and he’d suffered miscarriages fairly early on during his previous two pregnancies. He hadn’t made it this far before, so they hadn’t told anyone before, with the exception of Alfred and Bill.

There’s a part of Dick that shares the same fear as Slade; the fear that they’ll share their joy with their family and friends, only to shatter it when they lose the baby. Their pain will only be amplified if their loved ones share in their disappointment.

On the other hand, Dick’s fear is also that there’s something wrong with him, and he might never even get the chance to hold his baby. There’s a part of him that just wants to share this tiny bit of joy with his family, even if it is only for a short while.

“It’s only two weeks,” Dick says softly, reaching out to squeeze Slade’s arm. “It just feels like the right time. It’ll just stress me out if I have to keep thinking about how I’m gonna tell them all. And that’s not good for the baby.”

Slade’s eye twitches.

His protectiveness of Dick has gone into overdrive over the last ten weeks, and anytime Dick does something remotely risky, Slade tells him that’s not good for the baby. Whether it’s going on patrol, only eating cereal, or running down the stairs too fast, Slade seems to have that phrase constantly on his lips. It’s become so common in fact, that Dick has started anticipating it and sing-songing those words himself before Slade can say them.

Slade sighs again. “Won’t doing it tonight steal the kid’s thunder a bit? This is meant to be about him.”

“I’ll tell Damian first and check he’s okay with it. If he’d rather we didn’t, then that’s fine, but I honestly think he won’t mind at all. He’ll probably be really pleased and excited for us.”

A heavier sigh.

“Alright…if this is what you really want. I guess at least if we’re in public, Wayne can’t punch me.”

“That’s the spirit,” Dick chuckles, leaning over to plant a sloppy kiss on his alpha’s jaw.

*****

They arrive at the school with just five minutes to spare, and Bruce immediately shoots an accusing glare at Slade as they walk into the auditorium, clearly deeming him the cause of their tardiness.

Dick gives everyone an apologetic smile, glancing at the stage and relieved to see the presentation hasn’t started yet.

“Sorry we’ve cut it so close,” Dick says cheerfully, taking Slade’s hand as they brush past Bruce, Jason, Tim, and Alfred to slot into their seats. “Traffic was crazy.”

“Sure, traffic,” Jason says with a grin, leaning over to wink at Dick. “Wasn’t that what you said last time you were late, when you and your husband had actually been having a quickie in the car?”

“Master Jason, please,” Alfred admonishes as Bruce glares at him.

Jason just grins at Slade, who gives him an amused look, before going back to chatting to Tim.

“Is everything alright, Master Dick?” Alfred asks quietly when he knows the others are distracted, his gaze dipping only momentarily to Dick’s flat stomach.

Once again, Dick had let Alfred in on the secret first, mainly because he needed someone to cover for him if he had to leave the auditorium quickly to puke. Damn morning sickness seems to come on every other time of the day except morning; annoyingly unpredictable.

“Yeah thanks, Alfred.” Dick smiles reassuringly. “We’re just glad we made it in time.”

They really did cut it close; the chatter in the crowd dies down and the presentation begins.

Dick never thought he’d be this excited for a high school graduation. But he has to admit that he’s never felt more proud as he watches Damian collect his diploma towards the end of the lineup, scowl absent for once, a genuine smile on his face.

The family cheers and applauds, and Jason whistles so loudly that he startles the people in the row in front, but Damian still looks pleased and even gives them a tiny wave.

It’s almost like watching his own son graduate, and it’s then that Dick realises he could be back here doing this again in eighteen years or so. He grips Slade’s hand, and Slade must have the same thought, because he smiles and his eye briefly gazes at Dick’s stomach.

Afterwards, Damian comes and finds them, looking slightly awkward in his gown, but he endures being excitedly shoved around from person to person for a hug.

“I’m so proud of you, Dami,” Dick says, his voice wobbling a little as he pulls the young alpha into his arms.

He used to have to bend down to do this. Now he’s looking up as he hugs Damian, and he still can’t quite believe how tall his baby brother has become. He’s almost a man now.

“Thank you, Richard,” Damian replies proudly. “I’m glad you’re here. You too, Wilson.”

Damian holds out a hand to Slade, who shakes it firmly.

“Congrats, kid,” Slade says. “The cap and robe suit you.”

Another smile twitches on Damian’s lips, and then he pauses, distracted. He sniffs and looks at Dick curiously.

“You’re wearing some kind of…fragrance,” Damian observes. “A lot of it. You’re trying to hide your scent. Is everything alright? Are you unwell?”

Dick shares a look with Slade. Smart kid. No one else had noticed.

“Oh no, the cologne is just a gift from Slade,” Dick says innocently. “But I do want to talk to you about something real quick if that’s okay.”

Dick and Damian wander off to a quiet corner arm in arm, and Dick gives Slade an apologetic look as he leaves his husband with the rest of his family.

*****

Slade watches as Dick leads Damian away, shoving his hands in his pockets and taking in his surroundings.

A high school gym wasn’t exactly where he’d choose to spend his evening, but this is important to Dick, so it’s important to Slade. And maybe Slade has developed a little bit of a soft spot for his youngest brother-in-law.

He glances over at Bruce, Tim and Alfred, who are deep in conversation. Tim looks slightly agitated.

Before Slade can grow too concerned, a sloppy kiss is pressed against his cheek with a loud smacking sound effect for good measure.

Most people who attempted that sort of thing with Slade would find themselves on the receiving end of a deathly glare at best and unconscious at worst. But Slade has a soft spot too for his eldest brother-in-low.

“Hello, Jason,” Slade chuckles, leaning in to exchange cheek kisses with the younger man.

It’s a common greeting gesture between an alpha and omega from the same family, but Jason is the only one who really greets Slade this way. It’s taken Tim a while to attempt it, but he’s still awkward and stiff whenever he makes physical contact with Slade, as if he’s afraid Slade might snap and murder him on the spot. The alphas still shake his hand as if he’s a business acquaintance rather than a member of the family.

“Thought I’d save you from being bored out of your mind,” Jason grins, linking their arms together. “I love Demon Brat and it’s great to see him graduate and all, but now we’re just surrounded by a bunch of obnoxious kiddies and their rich parents.”

“Mm,” Slade chuckles. “I have to admit it’s not my scene.”

Jason leans in, lowering his voice. “Want some family gossip?” He glances over to where Bruce, Tim and Alfred are talking.

Slade freezes. For a moment he wonders if they all know about the pregnancy, and he quickly makes a mental note of all the escape routes in his line of sight.

“The boyfriend isn’t here,” Jason continues. “He bailed today.”

Slade raises an eyebrow. “The boyfriend?”

“Yeah, Clone Boy.”

Ah. Tim’s boyfriend.

Slade has met him probably three or four times during his marriage to Dick. He gets the impression that the clone tends to avoid him where he can.

“He isn’t here. I think they’ve really broken up for good this time.” Jason looks almost pleased.

“That’s a shame,” Slade says. “You don’t sound too sad about it though.”

“He was a nice guy and all, but they’ve been fighting a lot recently. Tim’s been more unhappy than happy lately, and that’s not the way things should be.”

There’s a softness to Jason’s voice that Slade hasn’t quite heard before, and a look on his face that Slade can’t quite read.

“What about you?” Slade asks. “No strapping young alpha you wanted to bring to this thing? A kid’s high school graduation makes the perfect first date they say.”

Jason laughs, smacking Slade’s arm. “Nah. This isn’t exactly where I’d choose to woo someone.” His eyes briefly fix on Tim, before his gaze drifts over to Dick and Damian. “Looks like some more family gossip is afoot. Know anything about what’s going on there?”

Damian is nodding as Dick talks to him quietly, occasionally pausing to ask a question or say something. It’s difficult to tell how the conversation is going.

“No,” Slade lies. “Not a clue.”

It’s at that point that they’re interrupted by Bruce, his expression unreadable as he tells them that they’re all heading off for dinner now. He disappears just as quickly as he arrived, barely even glancing at Slade.

“He gets irritated with us just for existing,” Jason chuckles. “Thank God I have you here now. It was getting lonely in the outcasts club.”

“Trust me when I say he far prefers you over me,” Slade says quietly, giving the omega an affectionate kiss on the temple.

Although he’d never admit it to Dick, there’s a part of Slade that longs to be liked by every member of Dick’s family. Or at least accepted. Slade has made the effort; he’d do anything to make Dick happy, but his effort has not been reciprocated by anyone except Jason.

Slade wouldn’t say that he and Jason are close, but they certainly get on well and enjoy each other’s company. The kid has a good sense of humour and a level of intelligence that is often underestimated. Slade perceives his moral code to be the most similar to Jason’s, and he deeply respects the work Jason has done in Gotham. It’s incredibly impressive for someone so young. And for an omega, Slade also thinks, which is wrong and he knows Dick wouldn’t be pleased if he said something like that out loud.

“Sit next to me at dinner?” Jason asks with a grin. “Preferably at the other end of the table to B.”

“My pleasure,” Slade chuckles, deciding that tonight might not be as painful as he expected after all.

*****

They end up having dinner downtown in a fancy restaurant that Dick vaguely remembers visiting before with Bruce many years ago.

It’s a nice atmosphere and not too busy, and the food is really good. Damian asks to sit between Dick and Bruce, and spends most of the meal chatting happily to Dick about his preparations for college in the fall.

Dick can barely concentrate though; he only has one thing on his mind.

The waiter keeps pouring Dick wine along with everyone else, but luckily no one seems to notice when he discreetly slips it to Damian. Bruce catches him the third time and raises an eyebrow, but he doesn’t say anything, and Dick assumes that he must think Dick is simply trying to give Damian a treat on his graduation day.

Slade seems pretty relaxed, which is good, alternating between chatting to Dick and chatting to Jason, who is sat on his other side.

When dessert comes, Bruce taps his glass gently with his fork and clears his throat.

“Damian, I just wanted to say on behalf of everyone how proud we all are of you. We’ve watched you grow and thrive in more ways than one since you arrived, and today is just another example of your discipline and hard work. Congratulations, son.”

Everyone gives Damian a little round of applause and a cheer, and the young alpha beams, his face red from the wine.

“Thank you, Father,” Damian says before letting out a little hiccup. “And thank you all for coming. It means a lot to me that you are here. Even you, Wilson.”

Slade rolls his eye, but there’s a fond look on his face.

“I will miss you all when I leave Gotham to attend college in the autumn. Especially you, Todd. I would gladly bury my face between your exquisite thighs.”

There’s only a millisecond of silence as everyone tries to determine if they heard what they think they just heard, and then Jason howls with laughter and bangs his fist against the table. Tim chokes on his cake and has to grab onto Jason as he spits up his mouthful. Even Slade has a small grin on his face, and Dick gives an apologetic look to Bruce as the older man mouths no more wine at him. Alfred just looks exasperated.

Damian is drunk enough not to be fazed by everyone’s reactions; he simply chuckles and bangs on the table for everyone’s attention again.

“Enough! I have something else I wish to say.” He turns to Dick and smiles. “Today is special for another reason. Richard shared some very exciting news with me earlier, and I agreed he should share it with you all too tonight.”

Damian gives Dick an expectant look.

Dick swallows. All eyes are on him, curious. 

Slade squeezes his knee under the table.

“Um,” Dick says nervously. “Thanks, Dami. And just to echo what Bruce said, we’re all really proud of you. And we’ll miss you a lot too.” He swallows again. “But yeah, I have some news. I wanted to let you know that Slade and I…” He glances once more at his husband for reassurance. “Well. We’re expecting a baby.”

There’s only a moment of silence, but to Dick it seems to last forever. The room feels incredibly hot.

“So that’s why you’ve been so bitchy lately,” Jason cackles.

Dick’s jaw drops. “I haven’t been bitchy-“

“Congratulations, Dick,” Tim cuts in immediately, his smile warm. “That’s wonderful news.”

An example to all the family, Tim stands to come to the other end of the table and give Dick a hug and a kiss on the cheek. He then turns to Slade hesitantly.

“Congratulations to you too, Slade.”

Dick doesn’t think he’s ever seen Tim hug Slade and exchange cheek kisses with him, so he can’t help but stare when it happens. If it were any other alpha and omega in his family it would be such a normal gesture, but it’s slightly bizarre watching these two show (hesitant) affection towards one another. Slade seems pleased though, an awkward smile on his face as it happens.

Jason quickly follows with his own hugs and kisses, which are far more natural and relaxed.

“Congratulations, man,” he says to Slade, genuinely happy. “Was wondering when you were gonna knock Dickie up and make me an uncle.”

Dick rolls his eyes but accepts the hug and kisses from Jason, laughing when Jason picks him up off the ground in his excitement.

“Gently,” Slade warns.

“Right, right.” Jason grins and settles Dick back on the ground. “Sorry. How far along are you?”

Dick’s hand automatically drifts to his flat stomach. “About ten weeks.”

“This is joyous news, Master Dick,” Alfred adds, as if this is all new information to him. His acting is on form as always.

“Very joyous,” Damian agrees, slurring his words only a little. “Congratulations, Wilson, on impregnating my brother.”

That’s the moment when Bruce finally reacts.

The alpha stands, pushing back his chair. Everyone falls silent, watching as Bruce quietly takes a few steps towards Dick. The atmosphere becomes uneasy, and this is the moment that Dick had really been fearing. There’s only one person he’d truly been worried about.

“You’re really pregnant?” Bruce asks, voice low - almost Batman low.

Dick chooses his next words carefully.

“Yeah,” he says softly. “You’re gonna be a Grandpa.”

Bruce’s expression shifts into something softer, and then he’s pulling Dick in for a hug, happiness and contentment rolling off his scent.

Thank God for that.

Dick doesn’t know what he was expecting, but that could have been a lot worse.

“Congratulations, Dick,” Bruce says, his voice soft also. “You’re going to be a wonderful mother.”

Dick beams, his eyes stinging slightly. He’d told Slade that he really didn’t care about what Bruce thinks, but the truth is that Bruce’s opinion is the one he values the most.

Bruce turns to Slade and holds out his hand. “Wilson. I trust you’ll take good care of them both?”

Slade shakes his hand. “You have my word.”

Bruce considers him for a moment. “This will be your fourth child, will it not? With your third omega?”

“Bruce.” Dick gives the alpha a warning growl.

“Yes,” Slade replies simply. “I won’t pretend I’ve been a perfect father. I will not hide my mistakes. But I have learned from them. There is nothing more important to me than Dick and our child.”

“I should hope so,” Bruce says warningly. “We’ll all be watching.”

Tim starts loudly asking Dick if he’s been for a scan yet and whether he’s started thinking about baby names, which thankfully seems to diffuse the situation. 

And although everyone else seems really pleased for both him and Slade, Dick still can’t help but feel a little disappointed in the alpha he’s always thought of as a father.

*****

Having known the Wayne family for a few years now, Slade would count this evening as quite a success.

Wayne didn’t directly threaten to kill him, so that’s a pretty good outcome. And Wayne Junior getting drunk on a couple of glasses of wine was incredibly entertaining.

The drive home is quiet; Dick is lost in his own thoughts, and Slade is lost in his as well. He’d known that Wayne would voice doubts over his ability as a father; it’s an easy target when his track record is so poor.

He’s had those doubts about himself every single day since him and Dick started trying for a baby. He’s failed three children already, and he can’t help but think there’s a pattern here.

The only thing that has convinced Slade that another attempt at parenting won’t be a disaster is Dick. He feels that this time he might be able to get it right with someone like Dick by his side - kind, supportive, nurturing. Wayne was right; Dick is going to be a wonderful mother. He has all the right qualities, and he’s basically raised three kids already.

When they get home, they’re both still deep in thought, and Dick immediately heads to their bedroom to change, returning a few minutes later in an oversized t-shirt and one of his obscenely tiny pairs of short shorts (which Slade has no complaints about). The omega hunts through their freezer for a tub of ice cream and grabs a spoon.

“I think that went well,” Dick says, taking a seat on the couch and digging his spoon into the tub. “Don’t you think that went well?”

He looks unsure of himself, vulnerability shining in those beautiful blue eyes.

“I think it went as well as it could have,” Slade agrees, taking a seat next to his husband and wrapping an arm around him. “Apart from you getting the kid drunk. Did you see him throw up outside the restaurant?”

“Poor Dami,” Dick sighs through a mouthful of ice cream.

“Slow down, kid. Is a whole tub of ice cream really a good idea before bed?”

“Baby wants it,” Dick says immediately. “Can’t argue with baby.”

Slade chuckles and kisses Dick’s hair. Dick is increasingly using the baby as an excuse anytime he wants to do something that Slade doesn’t approve of, including eating a lot of sugary snacks very late at night.

Later, when the tub of ice cream is empty and Dick is readying himself for bed, Slade thumbs through the contacts on his phone and dials Wintergreen’s number.

Wintergreen picks up after only one ring.

“Everything alright, my boy?”

Slade smiles and sits back in his chair. “Yeah, Bill. Have you got five minutes? I just wanted to tell you something.”

Wintergreen is the first person that Slade had wanted to share the news with, but he knew Dick wanted to tell his family first, so he’d held off. But now the painful part is done, Slade wants to indulge himself a little.

As expected, telling Wintergreen is a lot easier than telling the Wayne family.

He’s on the phone for about 15 minutes; Wintergreen offers his congratulations and says he’ll come to visit them sometime. He’s aware of the two miscarriages Dick suffered, so he knows that Slade and Dick are both very anxious about this pregnancy.

When Slade eventually climbs into bed, Dick is already lying under the covers, fast asleep. Slade plasters himself to the younger man’s back, tangling their legs together in the way he knows Dick likes, and sneaks his hand beneath the omega’s t-shirt.

He knows it’s still too early to feel the baby move, but he swears he can feel a little spark of warm energy when he caresses Dick’s stomach.

Chapter Text

Two weeks later, Dick finds himself nervously sitting in the waiting room at Leslie’s clinic, reading the same paragraph in a shitty gossip magazine over and over.

He can’t sit still. He taps his foot and bites his nails; he constantly checks his watch. They’ve been here only ten minutes but it feels like an hour. Dick has never been able to stand waiting even at the best of times, so this just feels like torture.

He should be happy he’s here. He should be happy he’s made it this far and nothing bad has happened. He’s never made it this far before, after all.

There’s still time though.

Today could be the day when Dick finds out that once again he hasn’t been able to keep his baby safe, and once again he’s brought Slade sadness and disappointment. He’s almost starting to regret telling the family about the pregnancy two weeks ago. Slade was right; if something goes wrong now, he’ll have to tell everyone and break their hearts as well as his own-

“Kid.” Slade places a large hand on Dick’s knee, which has been bouncing up and down for the last ten minutes. “You’re thinking too loud.”

Dick sighs and puts the magazine down, resting his head on his alpha’s shoulder. Slade’s scent is always comforting, but even that isn’t helping much today.

“I’m scared,” Dick admits quietly, lacing his fingers with Slade’s.

“It’s okay,” Slade says softly, squeezing Dick’s hand. “I’m gonna be right here with you, sweetheart.”

A middle-aged omega nurse then appears with a clipboard and calls Dick’s name, and Dick feels nauseous. Dick doesn’t even realise he isn’t moving until Slade gently pulls him out of his seat by the hand.

He tries to tell himself to pull it together; he’s fucking Nightwing after all, but he just feels dizzy as he’s guided to an examination room and handed a one-size-fits-nobody medical gown. The nurse gives them some privacy, leaving Dick to strip off. His fingers are trembling so much that he struggles with the gown, and Slade has to help him.

“It’s gonna be fine, Dick,” Slade reassures him, kissing his temple.

Slade’s scent is full of comfort and the desire to protect, and Dick tries to focus on it. He closes his eyes and breathes it in, willing himself to relax.

Leslie enters a few minutes later, a warm smile on her face.

“Hi, Dick! Nice to see you here without an injury for once. How are you doing today?”

“Fine.” Dick smiles weakly. “It’s nice to see you too, Leslie.”

If she notices his nerves, she doesn’t say anything. She turns to Slade.

“Nice to see you too, Slade. Congratulations to you both. We’ll just be doing a very basic scan and health check today to check everything’s okay. Have you had any problems so far, Dick? Bleeding, cramps, anything like that?”

“No,” Slade answers when Dick remains silent. “Nothing like that. He’s been getting nauseous a lot throughout the day. And a lot of cravings.”

“That’s completely normal,” Leslie chuckles. “Just some of the unfortunate side effects of pregnancy. Let’s have a little look shall we? Lie back for me, Dick?”

Dick isn’t really paying attention as he lies down and allows Leslie to examine him. He can’t help but feel a little awkward, even though Leslie has examined him thousands of times in various states of undress. She knows his body probably as well as Slade does. But there’s something different about this; this isn’t a post-mission injury fix. This is so much more intimate.

Satisfied with his general physical health, Leslie asks Dick to pull up his gown, and places a paper sheet over his hips while she boots up the ultrasound machine. She rubs gel on his stomach, and Dick shivers from the cold and the anticipation.

This is the moment he’s been dreading. His heart is hammering so fast that it almost seems deafening.

He can’t even look at the screen as Leslie rubs the wand over him gently. He listens to the loud hum of the machine as Slade squeezes his hand, praying to anyone who will listen.

Please let everything be okay.

A few minutes of silence pass. It seems like a very long time before Leslie says anything.

“Everything looks good,” she says eventually. “The baby is developing in the right place and everything is as it should be. Do you want to take a look, Dick?”

Dick finally looks at the screen.

The words Wilson, Richard John are in the top left hand corner, and filling the rest of the screen is a blurry image of a very tiny foetus.

He chokes out a little sob. Slade squeezes his hand.

“There’s your baby.” Leslie traces the little blob on the screen with a gloved finger. “Absolutely perfect.”

Absolutely perfect.

Everything’s okay. The baby is okay. Dick has never felt more relieved in his whole life. He doesn’t even realise there are tears on his cheeks until Slade wipes them away for him.

“You see that?” Slade murmurs in his ear. “Do you see our baby?”

Dick nods, completely speechless.

Their baby is safe.

Their baby is safe.

Absolutely perfect.

*****

The first thing that Dick does when they get home is pin the scan photo to their fridge with some of the gaudy magnets he’d bought from their last vacation. Leslie had been kind enough to give them a few copies, and he immediately knew he wanted one where he would see it every day.

Dick sits at the breakfast bar and stares at the photo for nearly half an hour. He can’t keep the smile from his face.

“It’s not going anywhere, kid,” Slade chuckles when he comes into the kitchen to find Dick in the same position he’d left him in.

Dick grins and points at the photo. “We made that.”

“Yeah,” Slade laughs. “We did.”

Arms thick with muscle wrap around Dick from behind, and then there are lips on his neck, kissing down to his scent gland. Dick allows himself to relax for the first time in weeks, happy and content. Slade’s scent is intoxicating - the scent of a proud alpha, and Dick suddenly finds himself growing wet and hard, desperate for his alpha’s touch.

Slade gives it to him; he lifts Dick from his seat, cupping his ass as Dick wraps his legs around Slade’s waist.

“On the table,” Dick begs. “Do me right here on the table.”

He can’t remember the last time he was this turned on.

“You’re pregnant,” Slade murmurs. “The only place you’re getting fucked is in a bed.”

Dick whines but allows Slade to carry him to the bedroom and deposit him safely on the bed, their lips connected the whole time. They shed their clothes quickly; working open belts and buttons and pushing material aside and down-

Dick moans loudly when Slade immediately opens Dick’s legs wide so that he can eat the omega out. His tongue is warm and so deliciously skilled, and his stubble scrapes across Dick’s thighs.

It’s so good that Dick can barely think. All his senses seem to be heightened now that he’s pregnant; Slade’s tongue and hands and skin set his nerves on fire just that little bit more. Slade’s fingers are thick and deliciously rough inside him, opening him up and making him so wet.

Sometimes Dick swears Slade has a magic cock. Dick’s been with his fair share of alphas, but there’s no cock or knot in the world that makes him feel like this - speared open and full and complete. Slade looks down at Dick as he thrusts, and Dick lets out a little whine because he feels safe and protected and loved.

After Dick has come down from the high of a screaming orgasm (quite literally; he’s sure they’ll get complaints from the neighbors again in the morning), he lays in his alpha’s arms, smiling as Slade caresses his sweaty stomach.

Absolutely perfect.

That’s what Leslie had said. Their baby is absolutely perfect.

They did that together.

They made something perfect.

*****

Over the next few days, Dick seems to want to spend all of his time giving out copies of the baby scan photo to his family and friends.

Slade can’t blame him. He’d be doing the same thing if he was as loved as Dick.

He does mail a copy to Bill, and texts a screenshot to his children. He receives their congratulations and warm wishes, and it all starts to feel very real.

They give a copy to Wayne, of course, which he has framed and placed on the mantelpiece in the main dining room of the manor. Slade doesn’t think he’s ever seen the Bat smile so much.

Nor has he ever seen Dick smile so much.

It’s good to see his beautiful bird so happy and relaxed. Dick’s anxieties clearly still linger, but he certainly seems less nervous now that he’s had confirmation their baby is healthy. There’s still a lot that can go wrong, but they’ve made it past the first hurdle.

It’s easy to tell that Dick is still a bit nervous, because he only argues with Wayne a little when they’re at the manor for dinner with the whole family one evening, and the Bat insists on benching Dick until after the baby is born.

“The risk is too great,” Bruce says, “for you and the baby.”

Slade doesn’t say it out loud, but he agrees with the Bat. It’s something that he was going to raise with Dick himself, but he’s glad that Wayne has brought it up first. Dick tends to listen to Bruce about stuff like this, even if he doesn’t like it.

Dick grumbles and there’s a bit of back and forth between them, but he concedes eventually, even agreeing to take on a temporary desk job at work, and Slade wonders if Dick would have been as quick to agree with Bruce if he hadn’t suffered two miscarriages.

“What about Bludhaven?” Dick asks sadly. “I can’t just leave the city unprotected.”

“I’ll cover for you,” Slade says automatically, without thinking.

Everyone at the table immediately looks at him. Most of them, including Dick, look surprised. The Bat looks sceptical, which means he’s clearly not taken with the suggestion, as he’s normally a master at hiding his thoughts.

“I don’t think so,” Bruce says cooly. “One of us will temporarily cover for Nightwing.”

He says one of us, as if that doesn’t include Slade.

“It’s noble of you to offer,” Dick says softly, kissing Slade’s cheek. “But I’m not sure it’s a good idea for Deathstroke to take over as the protector of Bludhaven.”

Logically Slade knows that’s true, but his love for Dick would make him do all kinds of crazy shit.

“How about Deathstroke assists?” Jason pipes up. “Red Hood can temporarily take over as the protector of Bludhaven.”

Bruce is clearly about to argue some more, but Dick nods enthusiastically.

“Oh, Jay, would you mind? I’d really appreciate it. I’d feel a lot better knowing you were out there. And Slade can provide back up.”

“What do you say, man?” Jason asks Slade with a grin. “Wanna team up while Dickie has a bun in the oven? Could be fun. You could be like my bitch or something.”

Thank God for Jason.

Slade returns the smile. “Deathstroke usually works alone, but I can handle taking orders from a bratty omega. God knows I do it already.”

Dick mumbles and turns red while Jason cackles.

“Father,” Damian interrupts. “Don’t you think Robin would be best placed to temporarily protect Richard’s territory? Red Hood is integral to many of our ongoing operations here-“

“You’re starting college soon,” Bruce dismisses immediately. “You don’t need the distraction. And Bludhaven is too far. Jason will go.”

One thing that Slade has learnt about Bruce Wayne is that sometimes all he needs is a worse option to be presented to him in order to make him agree with something that he’s not that keen on, but is perfectly workable and acceptable.

“I’ll need somewhere to crash in Blud for a few nights a week.” Jason flicks Damian on the forehead, earning a scowl from the young alpha. “I’m not commuting for patrol. I can stay in your spare bedroom right?”

Slade sighs. “Yes, Jason. You may stay in our guest room, seeing as you’ve extended the invitation to yourself.”

Slade pretends to be exasperated, but Jason is the lesser of all the evils. If one of the Bats has to move in with them for a few nights a week, he’d rather it be Jason than Wayne Junior or awkward Tim.

Or, God forbid, Wayne himself.

“You won’t be in Blud every night though, will you, Jay?” Tim asks suddenly, knocking Jason’s shoulder gently. “We still need you here in Gotham.”

Jason’s expression softens. “Don’t worry, baby bird. I’ll still be keeping Gotham safe too.”

They share a little smile together, and Jason winks at the younger omega. It’s a gesture that might be interpreted by most as nothing more than Jason’s usual cheekiness, but the way his gaze lingers just a moment longer and Tim blushes in response is certainly more unusual.

Slade isn’t sure whether anybody else notices, and he makes a mental note to ask Dick about it later.

But maybe he should let Jason have his secrets. The kid deserves that much.

*****

Two days later, Jason Todd moves half his apartment into Slade and Dick’s spare bedroom.

“Thought you were only gonna be here a few nights a week?” Dick laughs as he watches Jason slot his books neatly onto the shelves.

Jason shrugs. “I’ve got a lot of shit.”

The kid is a surprisingly good roommate though. He’s clean and tidy for one thing; a quality which his older brother doesn’t share, but which Slade admires as a former military man.

Jason is also a surprisingly good cook; Dick had often told Slade about Jason’s skills in the kitchen, but it’s only when he starts cooking dinner for them that Slade really understands what he means. Jason’s love of cooking and keeping a clean house are about the only stereotypical omega qualities that Slade has seen in him so far, but it’s good to see the kid relaxed the few nights a week that he has to spend away from home.

And Slade finds he actually enjoys assisting Jason with covering Dick’s patrols, even if Jason does keep referring to Slade as his bitch. Red Hood is ruthless in his delivery of justice, and there’s little for Slade to question or argue with. Plus Jason is good company, so the nights pass by quickly.

And Dick will nearly always be waiting up for them when they get back, a tired smile on his face and one hand rubbing his small bump.

It’s a weight off Slade’s mind, knowing that Dick isn’t out there facing the threats he usually faces. And as the weeks pass, Dick starts to grow bigger and Slade starts to insist that he slows down with his workouts and cuts out the acrobatics until the baby is born.

“I’ll be so out of shape when the baby is born,” Dick says sadly. “It’ll probably be ages until I can perfect a somersault again.”

Slade kisses Dick’s hair. “That may be so, but somersaulting right now is not a good idea.”

Jason does yoga with Dick instead, which seems to be a lot less dangerous than the moves Dick likes to show off, and Slade is grateful once again to have his brother-in-law backing him up.

It’s nice to have Jason around as a sort of intermediary between Slade and Dick when they disagree. The younger omega doesn’t really consistently take sides; he’s only interested in what’s best for Dick and the baby.

On the nights when Jason stays over, the routine is comfortable and familiar. He’ll cook dinner for the three of them, then Slade and Jason will disappear to patrol for a few hours, then they’ll return to debrief with Dick and drink some tea. (“Tea is the perfect way to calm down after a rough night,” Jason had told them shortly after his semi-relocation to Bludhaven, and Slade considers that maybe he will start this little ritual himself in future after he finishes a contract.)

It’s nice. It’s nice to have one of the Bats trust Slade enough to patrol with him, even if it does mean taking orders from the kid.

“Thanks for doing all this,” Slade tells Jason one night during a quiet patrol, when they’re sitting on a rooftop together in one of the shittiest parts of Bludhaven. “Dick really appreciates it. So do I. I’d gladly cover for him but clearly I’m not trusted enough to do so alone.”

Jason chuckles, leaning back to survey the city. “I don’t think I am either. I think they want us watching each other. And I think they’re happy to keep me away from Gotham for a while. Well, B is anyway.”

A few minutes of comfortable silence pass between them, and they watch the traffic below them and listen to the sounds of the city at night, masks off and cold air in their lungs. It’s oddly peaceful.

Jason breaks the silence by clearing his throat awkwardly. “Hey, man…can I ask your advice about something?”

Slade raises an eyebrow, slightly surprised. “You want my advice? About what?”

“Yeah.” Jason rubs the back of his neck. “My family are all…you know. I need advice from someone more removed. A fellow black sheep.”

This is certainly becoming intriguing.

“Right.” Slade nods. “Sure. I’m all ears, kid.”

“I’ve fucked up,” Jason sighs. “I’ve done something really stupid and I just…I dunno. I’ve gotta tell someone.”

Slade braces himself. He’s not sure what he’s expecting; he’s not sure what secret Jason might want to share with him that he wouldn’t want to share with the rest of his family.

Perhaps he’s killed someone.

Slade is aware that Jason has been doing his best to try and win Daddy Bat’s approval through adhering to his one very strict rule.

“What have you done, kid?” Slade asks gently.

He’s really no good at this shit.

“I slept with Tim.”

Jason’s voice is so quiet it’s barely a whisper, and even with Slade’s enhanced hearing he’s not sure he’s heard correctly.

“You…slept with Tim?” Slade parrots back.

“Yeah.” Jason looks miserable. “About a week ago. It just…happened. It’s something that’s been bubbling away for a while.”

It’s not a complete shock. Slade thinks back to that night where they had dinner at the manor and he thought he’d seen a spark between them. He’s noticed the way the two omegas have been looking at each other lately, and the way Jason’s gaze always seems to drift to Tim.

“Right,” Slade says slowly. “And why, exactly, have you fucked up?”

Jason blinks at him. “He’s an omega. I’m an omega. We can’t…shit. You know what a fucked up society we lived in. I can’t ruin Tim’s life like that.”

He really does look troubled, as if he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. It’s an odd look for someone who normally cares so little about what others think of him.

Slade sighs. “Kid. Slow down. Do you know how many times I considered that I might be ruining Dick’s life just by being with him? Every day I question whether I’m putting him in danger. People hate that I’m with him. Your own family included. Your own family especially. But I love him and he loves me. We compliment each other. He makes me better.”

Jason lights a cigarette and offers one to Slade. “Yeah, well. At least you’re an alpha and he’s an omega. That’s one thing Bruce can’t be pissed off about.”

Slade lets Jason light his cigarette. “Is that what this is about? Usually you don’t give a shit what other people think. But you care what Daddy thinks, right?”

Jason clenches his jaw. “First of all, please don’t call him Daddy. Just…ew. Second of all…I wish I didn’t care what he thinks. But how can I not? He’ll want better for Tim.”

Slade laughs. “I know that feeling, kid. Your dad’s approval may be important, but it’s not a dealbreaker. He may want a nice well-behaved alpha for Tim, but that’s tough. The only thing that matters is what Tim wants. And what you want. What do you want, Jason?”

Jason looks at his lap, almost shy. “I want Tim. I want to be with him. I want to go to bed with him at night and wake up with him in the morning. I want to make him happy.”

“Well there you go,” Slade says softly. “And if Tim feels the same way, then that’s all there is to it.”

“You make it sound so simple.” Jason gives a sad smile.

“It’s far from simple, kid. But don’t go beating yourself up because you’re both omegas. Life’s too short to worry about shit like that.”

Jason snorts. “I’ve been worrying about shit like that my whole life. Do you know who was the first omega to make me realise I might be gay? Your husband.”

Slade chuckles. “That doesn’t surprise me.”

“I remember thinking I’d grow out of it. I was just a kid, a nobody, and Dick was so nice to me and so fucking beautiful. And that ass in that fucking Nightwing suit…well, I ain’t gotta tell you about that. And then the Pit happened, and after I came back I tried fucking every alpha I came across…but it made no difference. I didn’t want any of them. And then Tim came along, and…that’s  when I knew.” Jason whispers. “I’m gay.”

In that moment it looks like the weight is lifted from his shoulders. Jason visibly relaxes; he looks tired, but there’s something different in his eyes now. A spark that wasn’t there before.

“You’re gay,” Slade confirms, squeezing Jason’s shoulder. “Good for you, kid.”

Jason smiles at him, the first hint of confidence that Slade has seen all evening. “Maybe I’ll fuck Tim again then.”

“Go for it. Fuck him. Kiss him. Never let him go.”

Jason kisses Slade’s cheek, lingering a little longer than he usually does.

“Thanks, old man. For listening to me. And making me feel like I’m not the complete freak of the family.”

Slade hums. “You’ve always done the same for me.”

They sit in silence a little longer, smoking together.

Jason clears his throat again. “Listen, Slade, do me a favor and don’t tell anyone what I told you? Even Dick. I’m not ready for the family to know yet. I just wanna…talk to Tim and see how things go without people sticking their noses in my business.”

“Your secret’s safe with me, kid.”

Later, when they get home, they find Dick asleep on the couch with a blanket tucked over his small bump.

Slade smiles and drapes the blanket over him further, thinking about Jason’s words from earlier. He presses a kiss to Dick’s bump, and then to the omega’s forehead.

It doesn’t matter if Dick’s family never accept Slade.

None of it matters, as long as they have this.

Chapter Text

It seems to be a general rule that when something is going well in Dick’s life, it doesn’t last for long.

That’s just the way things are. His work, his other work, his relationships with his family. He’ll take a step forward and then something will painfully hurl him ten steps back. And when there’s nothing but steady positive progress, Dick is always a little on edge, because that normally means something bad is coming.

Which is why he’s not particularly surprised when he wakes up in the middle of the night to find blood on the sheets.

That doesn’t make it any less terrifying though.

At first he thinks it must be a terrible dream. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s had a dream like this. Blood is roaring in his ears and his hands are shaking as he examines the sheets. Specks of red staining white. This can’t be happening.

This can’t be happening.

Not again.

“Slade.” Dick reaches over to shake his husband. “Slade, wake up-“

It only takes a moment for Slade to rouse, and then the alpha is sitting up, instinctively reaching for the gun he keeps in the drawer of his nightstand.

“What is it? What’s wrong? Is it the baby?”

Dick just chokes out a sob, and he can smell the distress in his alpha’s scent when Slade sees the sheets.

He’s vaguely aware of Slade calling for Jason. He’s never heard Slade sound like that before.

Dick shivers and lets Slade hold him, listening as Jason’s heavy footsteps enter the room. He’s not really paying attention  as Slade and Jason exchange panicked words and examine the sheets together. Despite the room being filled with the familiar protective smell of Dick’s alpha and a friendly omega, it’s not all that comforting.

Dick is snapped out of his thoughts as Jason gently helps him out of bed, guiding him into some clothes as Slade rushes downstairs.

“It’s gonna be okay, Dickie,” Jason tells him firmly. “You’ll be taken care of.”

Dick knows he’ll be safe and taken care of. But he’s not worried about himself. All he can think about is the baby. The baby that Dick was supposed to keep safe.

But he’s failed again.

Dick is carefully but quickly guided downstairs and bundled into the back of Slade’s car; Slade sits with him and holds his hand while Jason drives.

The journey seems to take forever, and Dick tries to calm himself by resting his head on Slade’s chest and listening to his alpha’s heartbeat. It’s not quite as steady as usual, but it’s still familiar and reassuring. If there’s one thing to take comfort from, it’s that he’s not alone. He won’t be alone, if this is what he thinks it is.

Leslie is at the hospital to meet them, but even her presence doesn’t make Dick feel much better. He’s already preparing himself for the worst. He knows that she can see it on his face.

Dick allows himself to be settled into a bed,  and Leslie does some tests. He allows himself to be gently poked and prodded and examined, but he doesn’t really want to pay attention. Everything is a blur. He can’t focus.

Leslie tells him that she’ll run the tests and be back shortly, and he feels so conflicted. He wants to know, but at the same time he doesn’t.

“Dick. Dickie.”

Dick snaps out of his thoughts when Jason squeezes his hand.

“I’m sorry,” Jason says softly, “but B is here.”

Great.

That’s the last thing he needs.

Dick doubts that Jason or Slade would have contacted Bruce without asking him first; he also doubts that Leslie would have contacted Bruce without permission. Which means Bruce has been keeping closer tabs on Dick than he’d realised. Hardly surprising.

“If you don’t want him here,” Slade says gently, “I can keep him out of here.”

“You can’t keep him out of here,” Dick mumbles glumly.

“Sure I can. I’ll restrain him if I have to. I’ll tell him that you don’t want any alphas in here and you just want to be with Jason.”

Dick sighs. “No, it’s fine. Tell him he can come in. I don’t want to deal with a moody B later. Just…play nice? Please?”

He can’t deal with two of the alphas he loves most arguing right now.

Dick can sense the tension in the room when Bruce enters. He can smell Slade’s scent becoming thicker, more dominating, and Jason’s normally sweet scent starts to turn sour. Thankfully, Bruce doesn’t seem to want to make trouble; he even gives Slade a curt nod by way of greeting.

“Leslie says she’s doing some tests.” Bruce immediately walks over to Dick, trying to exude comfort from his scent. “Are you alright?”

“No,” Dick replies, his voice wobbling. “I don’t want to lose my baby.”

And then Dick is in Bruce’s arms, quietly sobbing.

He can’t remember the last time Bruce held him like this. He can’t really remember the last time he needed comfort from Bruce. But he needs it now, and he’s pleasantly surprised by the open affection given to him by his pack alpha. It hasn’t always been like this, and Bruce’s emotional intelligence has certainly developed over the years.

“We don’t know that you’ve lost the baby,” Bruce says, kissing Dick’s hair. “We have to wait and see what Leslie says.”

“I’ve lost it,” Dick sniffs. “Just like I lost the other two.”

He doesn’t realise what he’s said until he feels Bruce’s arms tighten around him.

The room is so quiet it’s almost deafening.

“The other two?” Bruce questions, his voice low.

This isn’t how Dick imagined telling everyone the most devastating news of his life. He doesn’t have the energy right now, but he knows this isn’t going to go away, so he looks up at Slade, silently pleading with him to deal with it.

Slade seems to get the message.

“Dick has had two miscarriages before,” the older alpha says calmly. “Both in the last year.”

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Bruce asks, his scent becoming protective, aggressive.

“Because they happened very early on in the pregnancies,” Slade explains calmly. “And Dick just wanted to get through the first trimester of this pregnancy safely before worrying about telling you all.”

Dick can tell his alpha is doing his best to calm the situation, but the air is starting to smell foul very quickly. This is not what he needs right now.

“You could have told me,” Bruce says to Slade, taking a step towards him. “As his husband. As his alpha. You should have told me. I was sending him on missions-“

“He didn’t want you to know,” Slade replies, puffing out his chest and taking a step towards Bruce. “And I respected his wishes.”

Bruce growls.

“Whoa.” Jason plants himself between the two alphas. “Let’s all just calm down. It doesn’t matter right now who didn’t tell who what and when. All that matters right now is Dickie and making sure him and the baby are okay.”

Jason’s soothing omega scent fills the air, and thankfully it seems to be enough to do the trick.

Bruce and Slade let out a little growl at each other but back down. There’s still a thick tension in the air, but Jason smells like warm honey, and he even goes so far as to demurely nuzzle each of the alphas. Both Bruce and Slade look surprised; it’s unusual behaviour from Jason, who rarely shows such gentle affection with his pack in the way that Dick does. They immediately soften though, placated by Jason’s submission and his clearly desperate attempt to protect his brother.

The alphas give the omegas some space as Jason sits next to Dick and holds his hand, trying to give him the comfort he desperately needs.

When Leslie finally returns, Dick can feel the tension thicken even more. He can see the way Slade and Bruce tense up, defensive while trying not to distress Dick. Jason squeezes Dick’s hand, his scent screaming comfort comfort comfort.

Dick’s chest aches. His heart is pounding. He feels sick. He can’t breathe. He can’t deal with this. He can’t deal with this can’t deal with this-

“I have good news,” she says softly. “The baby is fine.”

The baby is fine.

Dick starts crying.

He doesn’t know why; this is good news. But he just clings to Jason and starts choking out sobs.

“It’s just a bit of spotting,” Leslie explains. “A bit heavier than we might expect, but it’s not anything to be concerned about. You were right to come and get checked out.”

“Really?” Jason asks, the relief clear in his voice. “He’s okay? The baby’s ok?”

“Everybody is absolutely fine. It can be scary seeing that much blood, but it’s less than it looks, I promise. This sort of thing is more common than you might think. But I can assure you everyone is perfectly healthy. I would, however, strongly recommend that you take things a bit easier for a while, Dick. No strenuous activity whatsoever.”

That’s code for no vigilante work while pregnant.

“He’s been benched,” Bruce says firmly. “But perhaps it might be best if you come home for a while, Dick? Alfred can give you some extra help. We can all make sure you’re taken care of.”

There’s a hidden implication there, which Slade immediately picks up on.

“I can take care of him just fine,” Slade says cooly.

“He might be more comfortable at the manor. With other omegas. With his pack.”

“I’m his pack. And he has Jason. Jason has been a lot of help and they nest together-“

“Stop it!” Dick interrupts. “Just stop it. You two fighting isn’t going to do me or the baby any good.”

The alphas fall silent, almost looking bashful.

“Quite right,” Leslie agrees. “Dick and the baby need rest. Peace. Not alphas fighting.”

Dick’s head hurts, aching from the blast of conflicting scents in the room. “Can I just…can I just have a minute? Please?”

If Dick didn’t know Bruce so well, he’d miss the hurt microexpression on his face.

“Everybody out,” Leslie agrees. “Let’s give Dick some space.”

She starts to usher the others out, and Slade gives Dick a quick reassuring kiss. He doesn’t look happy to leave his omega either, but he can clearly sense that Dick needs this.

Jason stands to leave too, but Dick reaches for his hand.

“Jason, stay,” Dick says softly to the other omega.

Jason looks slightly surprised, but also very pleased. He looks touched.

Dick meets his husband’s eyes as Slade and Bruce shuffle out with Leslie like scolded children.

Only the comforting scent of omega is left.

“Smells better without them, huh?” Jason chuckles, taking a seat on the bed.

“Mm.” Dick reaches for him, immediately relaxing as he inhales that warm honey scent. “Come and nest with me.”

They used to nest together all the time before Dick got married. After Jason re affiliated himself with the family, they’d nest together around the time of their heats, just like they used to do when Jason was a teenager. They’d wrap themselves in blankets and cuddle and talk about everything going on in their lives. It was the only time Jason really opened up. Tim would join them occasionally too, and some of Dick’s happiest memories are from nesting with his brothers.

It’s exactly what he needs; he feels a lot calmer now as Jason snuggles next to him, wrapping him in strong arms. It’s warm and familiar and safe.

“The baby is safe,” Jason says softly. “Everything’s gonna be okay, Dickie.”

Dick nods. “I hope so.”

The baby is safe. It’s been an overwhelming few hours, but all that matters is that the baby is safe.

They lie in silence for a few minutes, cuddling and just enjoying each other’s presence.

“You know,” Jason says quietly, “I had a miscarriage once.”

Dick blinks. “What?“

Jason shrugs sadly. “When I was nineteen. One night stand. Didn’t even know I was pregnant until…well.”

Dick doesn’t know what to say. He had no idea. The thought of Jason dealing with something like that alone is heartbreaking. Dick was devastated by his own miscarriages, but he at least had the comfort and support of his husband to help him get through them. Jason had no one.

“Oh, Jay.” Dick strokes his jaw. “Why didn’t you say anything? Why didn’t you tell anyone?”

“Probably for the same reason you didn’t say anything.” Jason’s tone isn’t accusatory; simply factual. “I wouldn’t have been able to deal with B at a time like that. I wanted to deal with it how I deal with things.”

“I’m so sorry, Jay.”

Jason’s eyes are shining with tears. “It’s stupid really. Getting so upset over something I didn’t even want in the first place.”

Dick pictures Jason, young and alone and afraid, grieving for his baby.

He nuzzles the younger omega gently and scents him, comforting him the only way he knows how.

“I hate to say it,” Jason says, “but I think B might be right. Maybe you should move back to the manor.”

Dick frowns.

“It’s not to say that Slade can’t take care of you,” Jason adds quickly, “or that you can’t take care of yourself. But you might find it easier being around the whole pack. Having us all there to help. Might make things less stressful for you.”

Dick chuckles. “Being around the whole pack would make things less stressful?”

“Alfred would make things less stressful,” Jason clarifies.

That is true.

Dick sighs. “It would be nice to be home again with the whole pack, and definitely helpful to have Alfred around. But Slade would never go for it. He couldn’t live under the same roof as B.”

Jason grins. “He might go for it if I was there.”

Dick raises an eyebrow. “You’d move back into the manor?”

“Sure I would, Dickie. For you and the baby. And Slade would do the same. He’s just like me. We might think that B is a pain in the ass, but we’d deal with him if being at the manor is what’s best for you.”

Dick rests his head on Jason’s shoulder. It would be so nice to be with everyone, just until the baby is born. He barely sees them now that he’s benched, and his instincts are telling him that he needs his pack. The baby will be safe if he’s with his pack.

“I can talk to Slade if you want,” Jason offers. “He likes me.”

Dick chuckles and kisses Jason’s jaw. “Thanks, Little Wing, but I think this is a conversation I need to have with my husband.”

He imagines being back at the manor again, with Alfred’s cooking and all the nesting with his brothers that he could want. He feels his heart bubble a little, and suddenly it just seems to make sense.

All he needs to do is persuade Slade.

Chapter Text

Moving into Wayne Manor sits firmly on the list of things that, short of dying, Slade would do anything to avoid.

But you do crazy shit when you’re in love.

Slade is still convinced that he could take care of Dick just fine on his own - hell, he knows he could take care of Dick just fine on his own. He’s Dick’s alpha; it’s his job. As long as Dick is with Slade, he’ll be safe. Their baby will be safe.

But if Dick feels better moving in with his family for a while, then Slade can only support that. There’s a part of him that’s disappointed that Dick doesn’t think he’s enough, but he can understand that Dick wants to be with his pack. And Slade is determined to give Dick whatever he needs; to do whatever he needs.

Slade will not be a failure of a husband and a father all over again.

Even though Slade is determined to support Dick’s decision, the first few weeks of living at Wayne Manor requires some adjustment.

Despite the fact that the place is fucking massive and has what seems like hundreds of rooms, Slade feels like he never truly has any privacy. Dick’s family are always on top of each other and each other’s business even when they’re not under the same roof, and it only seems to be amplified when they’re all together at the manor. Slade feels like he’s always being watched.

The only thing keeping him sane is Jason’s presence, and although he doesn’t say it out loud, he’s secretly very grateful that Jason has moved into the manor as well.

“Take it one day at a time,” is Jason’s advice as he makes them coffee in the kitchen at 6am on their first morning at the manor. “That’s how you’ll survive here.”

Slade grunts and accepts a mug gratefully. “You’d better not be going anywhere, kid. We’re in this together.”

Jason laughs, taking a seat next to the alpha. “Don’t worry, old man. I wouldn’t leave you here on your own with the big bad bat. And I wouldn’t leave Dickie when he needs me.” He winks and nudges Slade’s arm. “All you’ve gotta do is get on Alfred’s good side. If you’ve got Alfred backing you, you’ll be fine.”

Slade notes this advice.

Trying to get on the butler’s good side is actually a good way to pass the time. Slade can’t exactly accept contracts under the Bat’s roof, even if he is more selective about the jobs he takes now; Batman is very black and white when it comes to killing of any kind. (Dick is as well, but he’s come to grudgingly accept Slade taking on contracts in certain circumstances, to target certain lowlifes only.)

Even patrol doesn’t take up much time. The reputations of Deathstroke and the Red Hood are formidable enough to keep most Bludhaven criminals in line, and even the feisty ones aren’t difficult to deal with. Together Slade and Jason can keep Dick’s city safe with their eyes closed.

It’s also not as if Slade has to dedicate all his time to caring for Dick, as his omega now spends most of his time nesting with Jason or Tim. He can’t help but feel a little useless, but Dick has gently reassured him that this is what he needs. To be surrounded by his pack. And if Slade isn’t having to do much, then it means Dick has all the support he needs, which can only be a good thing.

So Slade has a lot of time on his hands.

He quickly establishes a routine. He’s used to being the first person up in his household, and although he keeps the same schedule at the manor, he’s very rarely the first one awake. By the time he’s washed and dressed and down in the kitchen at 6AM, Alfred is usually there already starting preparations for breakfast, a pot of coffee ready to go.

The butler always politely asks Slade how he slept and how Dick is feeling, and will make him a cup of coffee and some eggs and bacon. It’s a nice start to the day. Alfred’s company is easy, and he reminds Slade of Billy a lot.

“How are you settling in, Master Wilson?” Alfred asks one morning, about a week after Slade and Dick move in to the manor. “Is there anything else you need?”

“All good, Alfred,” Slade replies gratefully. “Thanks. Dick is well taken care of.”

It’s the truth; Alfred already seems to have everything covered. Slade was pleasantly surprised to find a selection of pregnancy pillows waiting for them in their room when they moved in, along with a stack of pregnancy books which Dick has been reading cover to cover. It was a very nice personal touch.

Alfred gives him a kind smile. “And you, sir? I’m aware that you’re not new to fatherhood, but it’s been a long time since you’ve supported a pregnant omega.”

There’s no dig or hidden agenda in his tone; he genuinely sounds interested in Slade’s wellbeing.

Slade shrugs. “I’ll be fine. I just want to make sure that Dick feels safe and comfortable.”

Alfred nods knowingly. And because there’s something so comforting about his presence, Slade keeps talking.

“I just hope,” Slade continues, “that my presence here isn’t an intrusion.”

“Certainly not, sir,” Alfred answers immediately. “This family is well aware of the impact of your presence on Master Dick’s happiness. Even Master Bruce recognises that. And I will remind him of that if needed.”

Slade can understand why Dick and the boys love the butler so much.

Although it seems to be clear that Alfred is already on side, Slade doesn’t doubt that one wrong move could swing things dangerously. The butler is loyal to Bruce and loves Dick like a son, and anything that Slade does that could possibly hurt Dick or his happiness would completely change the situation.

Slade can respect that.

Given all the time he has on his hands and recognising Alfred as a key ally, Slade takes it upon himself to help with the housework. It only seems fair that he pulls his weight, and he actually finds mundane repetitive tasks oddly soothing. When he’d been in the military he’d actually quite enjoyed polishing boots and ironing shirts.

At first Alfred insists that there’s no need, but Slade is persistent. He starts slowly; he offers his help with minor preparations for dinner, like chopping vegetables or peeling potatoes, and once he’s earned Alfred’s approval with the more trivial tasks, he’s able to work his way up to cooking the meat or making sauces from scratch.

Slade rather enjoys it when Bruce compliments Alfred on the roast chicken one evening, only for Alfred to tell him that Slade did nearly all the cooking for this particular meal.

“Hm,” Bruce says, eyes fixed on Slade. “Didn’t know cooking was one of your skills.”

“It certainly is,” Alfred interjects. “I’ve found Master Wilson to be very proficient in the kitchen. In fact, I’m thinking of asking him to assist me with the cooking at Christmas along with Master Jason. We could use the extra hands now that the family is growing.”

Jason fist bumps Slade beneath the table.

Alfred winks at him.

It takes all of Slade’s effort not to beam with pride.

*****

As the weeks pass, Slade finds that he actually doesn’t mind having time away from his work.

It gives him perspective. Clears his head.

It means he doesn’t miss a moment of Dick’s pregnancy. He’s there for every kick, every food craving, every time Dick starts talking to the baby. He gets to wake up at two in the morning to hear Dick casually chatting quietly to the little one, and nearly every day Dick will grab Slade’s hand at some point and guide it to his bump when the baby is being restless.

Slade had forgotten what it was like to experience these early moments of fatherhood. He won’t take them for granted this time.

Dick certainly seems happy to be back at the manor and with his pack, and at just over six months pregnant he seems to want to spend most of his time nesting with the other omegas. Slade is content to give them their space, especially since he can tell the constant nesting is taking its toll on Jason and Tim.

As an alpha, Slade will never fully understand the emotional intimacy that nesting demands, especially nesting with a pregnant omega, but he fully respects it. He knows it must be exhausting for Jason and Tim, especially on top of their vigilante work and everything else they’ve got going on in their lives, but they never complain about spending hours on end in a nest with Dick. They simply give their brother what he needs; the kind of comfort and support that Slade cannot give.

One afternoon Slade is in the library reading when he’s interrupted by a tired-looking Tim, wearing an old t-shirt and shorts, his scent mingled with Dick’s. The kid always seems to look as though he hasn’t had enough sleep, but lately he’s been looking even more exhausted than usual.

“Hey,” Tim says to Slade softly. “Just to let you know we’re all done nesting. Dick is just getting dressed but he wanted to know if you wanted to go for a walk with him.”

Slade closes his book. “Yeah. Sure.”

Tim nods and is about to leave, but Slade clears his throat.

“Hang on a minute, kid.”

The omega pauses, folding his arms and leaning against the door frame.

At least he doesn’t look wary anytime he’s left alone in a room with Slade, but there’s still a tension in his shoulders.

“Thank you,” Slade says softly, standing up. “I know this has taken up a lot of your time. You’ve got your job and your hero shit, but I really appreciate you looking after Dick like this.”

Tim smiles tiredly. “I’m happy to. Dick is my brother. It’s…nice. When I first started going through heats he’d nest with me all the time, so I’m glad to return the favor. And Jay and I have been taking it in turns so we’re not both patrolling just after we’ve been nesting.”

“Thanks, kid. Really. I’m sorry it’s meant you’ve not been able to spend as much time with Jason, but I’m grateful for everything you’ve done.”

Tim blinks, and there’s a heavy silence.

Slade mentally scolds himself for bringing up Jason. He knows that the two omegas are still keeping up their little romance; Jason talks to him about it sometimes. But nobody else in the pack knows as far as he is aware, and he knows how paranoid Jason is about anyone else finding out. It’s reasonable to assume that Tim feels the same way.

Tim swallows. “Jason told me he told you about us.”

Slade nods. “Yeah. Yeah, he did.”

“You…you’re not gonna tell anyone right?” Tim’s voice is quiet, uncertain.

“Of course not,” Slade replies immediately. “I gave Jason my word. It’s no one’s business but your own.”

Tim visibly relaxes a little, a small smile returning to his face.

“Thanks, Slade. It’s not that we’re ashamed or anything, it’s just…we wanna tell people when we’re ready.”

“I get it, kid. Don’t worry.” Slade smiles. “It’s good to see Jason so happy. And you. Things must be going well for the two of you.”

Tim shrugs shyly. “I like to think so.”

“Good. I’m happy for you, kid.”

Slade takes a step forward but pauses as it feels slightly awkward. Tim smiles and takes a step forward as well, standing on his tip toes to wrap his arms around Slade’s large frame. He smells relaxed and happy. Slade hesitantly hugs him back.

It’s the first time Tim has shown any affection towards Slade, or accepted any affection from the alpha. It must be as vulnerable a moment for him as it is for Slade, but it feels like a big step. It feels for the first time like there’s a chance they could be family to each other.

It will probably still take them a while to feel comfortable around each other, but Tim smiles at Slade warmly and kisses his cheek before leaving, and Slade considers that a good start.

*****

By the time Christmas rolls round, Slade feels as though he’s integrated pretty well into Wayne family life.

As well as he possibly could, anyway.

He’s spent Christmas at the Manor before, and while he’s simply endured it for Dick’s benefit previously, he finds he almost actually enjoys it now that he’s more a part of it. He helps Alfred with organising the decorations and he helps Jason with baking what seems like a never ending order of cookies from Dick. He finds himself enjoying activities that he hasn’t indulged in since his first marriage.

Even the normally horrendous annual Wayne Enterprises Christmas party is almost fun.

It’s a stuffy formal affair with WE employees and representatives from the Wayne Foundation and other charities that Bruce is involved with. Most years Slade will hide in a corner with some booze and watch Dick charm people with his dazzling eyes and sunny smile, but tonight Dick’s pregnant glow radiates so strongly that it rubs off on Slade.

Slade is by Dick’s side most of the evening, protective of his pregnant omega but also slightly lapping up the attention. In previous years most people have actively avoided speaking to him, or have looked down their noses at him, clearly surprised that an omega like Dick could pick an alpha like Slade. But this year Slade can’t help but smile as people congratulate them both and ask them if they’re looking forward to parenthood.

Dick keeps up the energy remarkably well for someone so heavily pregnant, even letting Slade lead him through a dance or two, but after a few hours he starts to grow tired, so Slade settles his omega at a table with Tim and Damian.

“You want me to stay with you?” Slade asks, although he can sense that Dick is happy to have some alone time with his brothers.

“No, I’ll be fine,” Dick replies happily, stroking his bump. “Why don’t you go and talk to Jay? He seems a little down.”

Slade scans the crowd and spots Jason over the other side of the room leaning against a wall, hands in his pockets as he watches couples on the dance floor. He does look a little glum.

Slade weaves his way through the crowd towards the omega, and Jason seems to brighten up a little as he spots him.

“Thank God you’re here,” Jason says with a grin, although he doesn’t have that usual mischievous spark in his eye. “I’m bored out of my fucking mind.”

Slade chuckles. “Couldn’t leave a pretty omega all on his own at a party like this.” He holds out his hand. “Dance with me?”

Jason looks a little surprised, but some of the warmth returns to his gaze. “Sure.”

He takes Slade’s hand and lets the alpha lead him to the dance floor. Slade places his hands on Jason’s waist as Jason wraps his arms around Slade’s neck, and they sway slowly to the beat of the music. It feels comfortable and relaxed, but Slade can smell the sadness in Jason’s scent.

“You okay, kid?” Slade asks, voice low. “You look like something’s bothering you.”

Jason’s smile fades a little. “Yeah, I’m fine. I just hate these WE gigs. Boring as fuck.”

Slade raises an eyebrow. “You sure that’s it? C’mon, kid. You can tell me. You can trust me.”

Jason hesitates for only a moment. “It’s…it’s nothing really. I was watching you and Dick dancing earlier, and I just really wanted to dance with Tim.”

There’s a hint of vulnerability to his voice.

Slade squeezes Jason’s hips gently. “So why don’t you?”

Jason rolls his eyes. “You know why, old man. No one knows we’re together. No one knows we’re…gay.” He looks around and lowers his voice before saying that last word.

“This could be a way of letting people know, if that’s what you wanted,” Slade hums.

Jason scoffs. “Yeah. I’m sure Bruce will love it when tomorrow’s front pages have photos of two of his omega sons in a passionate embrace.”

“You think it would bother him?”

Jason looks over hesitantly to where Bruce is talking to a small circle of people.

“Jason,” Slade says softly. “Bruce Wayne is a lot of things, and you know his faults better than anyone, but he’s no homophobe. You know that. I know how much he loves you and Tim, and yeah it might be a shock for him, but I honestly think he’ll be happy for the two of you. You should give him more credit.”

Jason’s eyes are shining with unshed tears. 

“If you want to dance with Tim, then dance with Tim,” Slade murmurs, kissing Jason’s temple.

Jason doesn’t reply, but tightens his embrace around Slade a little. They dance for a few more minutes in silence.

As the band comes to the end of the song, Jason presses a kiss to Slade’s check.

“Dickie is really lucky,” Jason chuckles. “And if I weren’t so gay, I’d probably be super attracted to you right now.”

And then the omega turns on his heel and strides confidently to where Tim is sitting, leaning down to whisper something in his ear. Slade watches as Tim blushes, and then Jason holds out his hand, and Tim is beaming as he takes it.

There’s a slight hush as Jason leads Tim to the dance floor, but it soon dies down as the band starts to play again. There are a few people staring, but Jason and Tim look as though they’re in their own little bubble, happy and care-free.

Slade glances over at Bruce, who is watching them with interest.

“Oh my God,” Dick says excitedly when Slade returns to the table to sit next to him. “Did you know about this?”

Slade shrugs. “Perhaps.”

“Wow.” Dick’s eyes are wide as he watches his brothers dance. “I kind of suspected that Tim might be gay…but Jason? Although thinking about it, a lot of things are starting to make sense now.”

Damian is sitting on Dick’s other side, and he’s also watching the two omegas dance, but he doesn’t look happy like Dick. He doesn’t look disgusted or angry, just…sad.

Slade files that information away for later. He knows the kid won’t appreciate any kind of heart to heart being initiated in such a public setting.

Dick sighs happily and rests his head on Slade’s shoulder, and Slade’s hand automatically goes to Dick’s bump.

They watch Jason and Tim grinning at each other like lovestruck idiots, and Slade can’t help but think about something Jason said to him.

Dickie is really lucky.

No one has ever said that before. No one has ever implied that Dick is lucky to have Slade. It’s always been the other way around; Slade being told that he’s lucky to have Dick.

It’s always nice to have someone else confirm that he’s not completely ruining Dick’s life.

*****

The next morning, Jason and Tim appear at breakfast at the same time, hair slightly dishevelled and warm smiles on their faces.

Their scents are mixed together, warm and happy, and it immediately impacts the mood in the kitchen. The whole atmosphere seems a little brighter, a little more joyful, as if the omegas’ happiness is quite literally rubbing off on everyone else.

Slade is helping Alfred with the cooking this morning, so he gives them both a wink as he hands them plates of pancakes and bacon.

“I gotta say, B,” Jason says through a mouthful of syrupy pancake, “that was probably the first party you’ve thrown that I’ve actually enjoyed.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” Bruce replies from behind his newspaper, but he has a fond smile on his face as he watches the two youngest omegas exchange a very chaste kiss.

“This is so awesome!” Dick exclaims excitedly, waving his fork so enthusiastically that he ends up sprinkling Bruce with flakes of egg. “I had no idea you guys were a thing! When did this start?”

Jason shrugs, a shy smile on his face. “A few months ago? It’s…still very new. But it’s going well, I think.”

He turns to look at Tim, who nods happily in confirmation.

“Yeah. I would say it’s going really well.”

“Oh my God, I’m so happy for you.” Dick strokes his bump. “The baby is happy for you too. The little one hasn’t stopped kicking all morning.”

The only person who doesn’t look happy is Damian.

The young alpha is usually fairly quiet during family meals, but he always has something to say. Not today though. Today he hasn’t said a word since he’s sat down, and he looks as though he’s trying to hide a scowl every time he looks at Jason and Tim.

“Say, kid,” Slade says to Damian after they’ve all finished eating. “I’m heading down to the gym and I need a sparring partner. Wanna join?”

He’s surprised the kid accepts; he’d been expecting a sarcastic comment or insult, but Damian seems glad to have the invitation.

The young alpha clearly has a lot on his mind and needed an outlet for whatever his frustration may be, because within thirty seconds of sparring he ends up nearly managing to knock Slade off his feet. Damian has always been a skilled fighter and he’s nearly as tall as his father now, but he’s still not as broad and he’s rarely able to beat Slade when sparring. So this additional aggression can only be fuelled by something that’s really bothering him.

And Slade has a good idea about what that thing might be.

“You’re gonna have me on my ass one of these days,” Slade comments after a very challenging half an hour fight, handing Damian a bottle of water.

“Tt,” Damian grunts, swigging from the bottle as they settle on the edge of the mat.

They sit in silence for a few minutes.

“You looking forward to going back to college after the holidays?” Slade asks.

Damian shrugs.

“Not very talkative today,” Slade observes. “Alright, you gonna tell me what’s up?”

He’s going to give the kid the chance to admit this himself. Save his pride a bit.

“Nothing,” Damian replies, sounding very much like a moody teenager.

Slade raises an eyebrow. “You sure about that? Because it sure seems like something’s up. Wouldn’t have anything to do with Jason and Tim, would it?”

Damian blushes, clearly realising he’s been caught. His scent sours a little.

“I’m happy for them,” Damian says, but his voice cracks.

“You can be happy for them…but also sad at the same time.”

Damian wrinkles his nose. “I’m not sad.”

“Kid. You don’t have to lie to me. You can talk to me. Alpha to Alpha.”

Damian slumps a little, defeated.

“I’ll be fine,” he whispers. “It’s nothing. I…in a way it’s better, I suppose. To lose Todd to an omega, instead of competing with another alpha and thinking there’s any hope.”

“Heartbreak is a part of life, kid.” Slade squeezes the younger man’s shoulder. “I’m sorry. But it’ll get better, I promise. Ask any one of your brothers if you don’t believe me.”

“Tt. I don’t want to talk to them about this. They’ll tease me.”

“I won’t tease you. I get it. Jason is a beautiful omega.”

“And strong,” Damian adds. “A good fighter.”

Slade nods in agreement. “Definitely.”

“He’s funny. And he doesn’t treat me like a child. He never has.”

Slade nods and listens as Damian rattles off the other qualities he loves about Jason. He’d assumed that Damian’s attraction to Jason had always just been physical, but it becomes very clear from listening to him talk about Jason that there’s something very emotional here too. If it is just a crush, then Damian has been harbouring it for a very long time.

Damian lets out a sigh when he’s finished. “At least he’s happy. Even if it’s not because of me. I can take joy in that.”

Slade smiles. “That’s a very mature attitude to have, kid. I know I haven’t been in this family long, but I’ve been around long enough to see you grow into an alpha that every member of this family is proud of.”

If he blinked he’d probably miss the tear that Damian quickly wipes away.

“Wanna go again?” Slade asks, nodding to the mat.

Damian nods, and they stand.

Slade figures that as Damian has allowed himself to be vulnerable in front of Slade, Slade should probably reciprocate.

“You can talk to me anytime, kid. Just so you know. I’m not the best at heart to hearts. I’m a failure of a husband and a failure of a father, so you might not want my advice. But I can listen, if that’s what you need.”

Damian’s face softens. “You deserve another chance.” He gets in position, readying himself in a fighting stance. “Take care of Richard, Wilson. He’s the closest thing to a mother I’ve ever had.”

Slade nods, an unspoken promise between them, and then they lunge for each other.

*****

Three days later, Bruce invites Slade to go on patrol with him.

Slade has only so far been on patrol with Jason in Bludhaven to cover for Dick. He hasn’t been asked to patrol with any of the other bats, and certainly not in Gotham. Not in Batman’s territory.

It’s a big deal, according to Dick.

“Batman only patrols with people he trusts, Slade,” Dick tells him excitedly. “This means he trusts you. You’re in!”

Slade has to admit he feels slightly honoured.

He also feels like it’s some kind of test.

He suits up in the Batcave (which he’s never been allowed to set foot in before), and Bruce briefs him like he would any other member of the team. Like an equal. Slade thinks about the number of times Dick has been down here, doing exactly what he’s doing now.

He will never admit how much pride he feels in this moment. So he resolves to be on his best behavior on patrol. He knows he’s being watched; he knows he’s being judged. He can’t afford to make a mistake, to give Bruce a reason not to trust him. To let Dick down.

No killing, no maiming. He sticks to the book. The Bat’s book. It takes more skill to defeat an opponent without harming them, but Slade has those skills. He needs to impress the Batman.

It’s a good night. Bruce is working on a case to track down the ringleaders of a human trafficking operation, and they follow up on three leads that turn out to be quite fruitful. They even stop a few petty crimes along the way.

Bruce watches Slade closely but doesn’t interfere, giving the other alpha his space to operate within the parameters that they both know are clear.

Afterwards, when they’re back at the cave, Slade feels a lot more relaxed when Bruce takes off the cowl. He can see the approval in the other man’s eyes. He’s not sure if it’s quite trust, but it might be something close.

“Thank you for helping me tonight,” Bruce says. “And for helping Jason with Bludhaven over the last few months.”

“Sure,” Slade replies as he strips off his armour. “Anytime. So…why the change of heart? You’ve never asked me to go on patrol with you before. And as you’ve told me many times, you’ve never liked the fact that Dick chose me.”

Bruce’s face is unreadable. “That’s true. If I could’ve chosen someone for Dick, it wouldn’t have been you. But you make Dick very happy.”

Slade holds Bruce’s gaze.

“The other boys have been talking to me,” Bruce continues. “They’ve been vouching for you. Jason has defended you for a long time, but he’s been giving me regular reports on your patrols in Bludhaven. He also told me that you were the first person he confided in about his relationship with Tim.”

Slade nods.

“Damian also spoke to me recently. He told me that I should be more trusting of you. He wouldn’t say why, but I trust his judgement. So here I am, willing to trust you. Or at least willing to try.”

Bruce holds out his hand.

Slade takes it and shakes firmly, trying not to think about or acknowledge just how much this gesture means him.

“You’re part of this family now,” Bruce says, his voice softer. “Part of this pack. Don’t let us down.”

“I won’t,” Slade says immediately.

He means it.

*****

Slade is invited to go on patrol with Bruce again three days later.

And then again two days after that.

It becomes a regular occurrence, and Slade is determined to use it as the opportunity it is to continue to prove himself and his loyalty to this pack.

“Might as well get a Bat crest for this thing,” Jason says one evening when it’s just the two of them sitting on a rooftop in Bludhaven, flicking the chest plate of Slade’s armour. “Now that B has decided you’re one of us.”

“I wouldn’t go that far,” Slade chuckles.

“Well people are talking. First Deathstroke stops taking contracts in Gotham and Bludhaven, then he stops taking contracts altogether, and now he’s showing up kicking criminal ass alongside Batman. People have noticed.”

“Good,” Slade says, surprising even himself slightly.

“Old man,” Jason purrs softly. “You’re gonna make me think you like us or something.”

Slade chuckles. “I might be fond of some of you.” His tone becomes serious. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been a part of a family. Since I’ve had a pack to protect.”

“You like us,” Jason sing-songs teasingly, throwing his arm around Slade and kissing his cheek sloppily.

Slade kisses Jason’s temple affectionately, and the two of them sit in comfortable silence for a few minutes.

That is, until their comms crackle to life.

“Hood, Deathstroke,” Tim says in their ears. “Back to the cave now.”

Jason’s spine straightens. “What’s up, Red?”

“Nightwing’s in labour.”

Slade’s heart stops.

“Really?” Jason jumps to his feet. “Shit.”

“How long?” Slade asks, trying not to panic. 

“Not long,” Tim replies. “Alfred says the baby might come quickly though, so we’re keeping him here and Leslie is on her way. He’s asking for you.”

That’s all Slade needs to hear.

He’s on the back of Jason’s bike within seconds, heart pounding as Jason speeds them back towards the manor.

Chapter Text

“Where is he?”

Dick grits his teeth and tries to control his breathing, but it’s as if every breathing exercise that’s been drilled into him in training has just dropped out of his head.

He knows his room smells of anxiety and fear, but he can’t help it. His alpha isn’t here. His alpha should be here. The baby is coming and Slade’s not here…

Even the oversized t-shirt of Slade’s that he’s wearing isn’t enough. Slade’s scent alone isn’t enough. He needs to be here.

“Master Wilson is on his way,” Alfred says, calm as ever as he squeezes Dick’s hand. “He’ll be here.”

In normal circumstances, Dick would feel slightly awkward about being naked from the waist down in front of Alfred, but right now he really couldn’t care less. Until Slade gets here, Dick knows he’ll be safe with Alfred, and right now all he can focus on is the contractions ripping through his body.

“Drugs, Leslie,” Dick groans. “Please.”

“Sorry, Dick,” Leslie says softly from the corner of the room, where she’s hunting through her bag for something. “It’s too late for that now. You’re too far along. You’re just gonna have to breathe through it.”

“Breathe through it?” Dick laughs hysterically. “I’ve had gunshot wounds that have been less painful than- ow, fuck!”

He squeezes Alfred’s hand as another contraction hits him, wishing this would just be over and done with.

He can smell the intermingled scents of Bruce and Tim and Damian from just outside his room, and it’s thoroughly distracting. He should want his pack to be with him, but it doesn’t feel right without Slade, and all he can smell is the worry.

Suddenly, the smell of gunpowder and pine cones hits him, and he can feel himself relaxing almost instantly.

There’s some murmuring from outside, and then seconds later the door opens.

Slade is still half-dressed in his armour, which he begins stripping off and throwing to the side as he strides towards Dick.

“Slade,” Dick chokes out, reaching for him with his free hand. “Alpha.”

“I’m here,” Slade says, immediately taking his place at his omega’s side. “I’m here.”

The world seems to slow down now that they’re together, now that things are as they should be. Even the baby seems to know that its father is here now; Dick can feel the energy flowing through him as he squeezes Slade’s hand, as he gives his everything to bring their child safely into the world.

It’s the most important task he’s ever had.

The pressure is overwhelming, more so than the pain. This is the final hurdle, and Dick cannot fail now. He can’t fail Slade. But the contractions are so strong, and Dick has no idea how he’s going to do this.

The next few hours are a bit of a blur. An emotional blur. Even though Slade has been through this before, Dick can tell that he’s frightened. He can smell it. Dick knows that Slade can’t stand seeing him in such pain and being so helpless; this isn’t something Slade can fix. All Slade can do is just be there.

Dick is glad to have Alfred there too, as calm as ever as he whispers soothing words to Dick.

Dick isn’t quite sure how long he is in labour for. It seems to go very fast but at the same time it seems to last forever.

Dick cries and groans and screams at Slade, squeezing his husband’s hand so hard that it would probably break if Slade weren’t a meta. Leslie tells Dick to breathe and to push, and the scent in the room is overwhelming.

“I can’t,” Dick chokes out. “I can’t do this.”

There are lips on his sweaty forehead, and Slade squeezes Dick’s hand as reassurance floods through his scent.

“Yes you can, sweetheart,” Slade tells him firmly. “You can do this. You’re Nightwing. Now hold my hand and push.”

It could be minutes later or it could be hours, Dick isn’t sure, but his voice is hoarse from screaming and everything hurts, but there’s soon the sound of a baby crying, and Dick is sinking back into the pillows happily, tears on his cheeks and his hair a mess.

The milky scent of a newborn pup fills the air.

Dick almost can’t believe it.

“Congratulations,” Leslie says with a warm smile. “You have an alpha son.”

“Is he okay?” Dick asks through tears, voice still croaky. “Is he alright?”

“He’s perfect,” Leslie tells him. “Perfectly healthy.”

Perfectly healthy.

Their baby is safe and healthy.

The scent of Slade’s relief hits Dick instantly,  mixed with pride. Dick knows his own scent must be similar, but Slade’s is so overwhelming and comforting that that’s all Dick can focus on. That and the smell of their pup; strong and healthy and a little bit of both of them.

They’ve done it. Dick has a brand new pack to be a part of and to protect; a new family to love.

“Hear that?” Slade asks, kissing Dick’s sweaty hair. “He’s perfect. You did it, kid.”

Dick laughs happily and squeezes Slade’s hand.

“We did it,” the omega murmurs before pulling Slade in for a kiss.

*****

Later, when Dick has been tended to by Leslie and the pup has been scented by his parents, the family is allowed in to meet the newest member of the pack.

Bruce is given the honor of holding the baby first as the pack alpha. Dick doesn’t think he’s ever seen Bruce cry, but the emotion in Bruce’s eyes is rather touching.

“Congratulations, chum,” Bruce says softly as the baby is passed around for scenting and cuddles. “I’m so proud of you.”

He kisses Dick’s hair and then offers his hand to Slade.

“Congratulations to you too, Slade,” Bruce says, his tone genuine.

Slade shakes the offered hand. “Thank you…Bruce.”

There’s a slight awkwardness to the exchange, but it’s probably the only conversation the two alphas have had where neither of them look like they secretly want to kill the other.

Dick watches Damian cuddle the baby gently with a fond smile on his face, and Jason and Tim coo over the little one excitedly.

Maybe this is what they all needed to bring them all together again.

Dick leans back against the pillows and tangles his fingers with Slade’s.

It all feels so natural. So easy.

For the first time ever, they’re all in the same room and it feels like they’re a real pack, a real family. There’s no tension in the air, no undercurrent of distrust or anxiety.

Sometimes it takes people a while to find their place in the Wayne pack, but there will always be a place for those who belong.

END