Archive of Our Own

Tim should’ve closed his door. Hell, he should’ve locked it, maybe even pushed a chair up against it too for good measure.

And really, he would’ve- if only he’d known the mess he was about to get himself into.

But of course, closed and locked doors do little to stop anyone in his family. So maybe it wouldn’t have made much of a difference at all.

Regardless, he’s regretting it just about now. Because at least it would’ve been something. A meager defense, but a defense all the same.

“Mandatory? C’mon Bruce, you know how busy I am with patrol, and Wayne Enterprises, and-“

“No ‘buts’. You’ve somehow managed to get out of every gala this year. The general public is starting to get suspicious Tim. No one’s seen you in a long time. We have to keep up with appearances.”

“But-“

Bruce clears his throat as he crosses his arms, leaning himself back on Tim’s doorframe. Effectively blocking Tim’s only exit. Not that he’d been planning on bolting, but the meaning is still there.

If only he’d closed his door…

“The Summer Gala is one of the biggest galas that we hold all year. Lots of prominent people will be attending, and it wouldn’t make sense for you to be missing again.”

“I could be sick-“

Bruce raises a brow. “Just like you’ve been sick for the last five galas?“

Tim huffs, sliding down in his desk chair until his eyes are level with his keyboard. “The last time I actually was sick.”

“And that’s exactly why it’s important to go when you aren’t sick- so that no one questions it when you really do need to miss.”

Tim crosses his arms, focusing back on the school assignment he’d had pulled up on his computer before Bruce had so rudely barged in on him. He can tell he isn’t going to win this one- Bruce is determined. And honestly, he’s not too wrong either. Tim’s seen the tabloids, has kept up with his name on social media- some more wild theories state that he’s dead, while more logical ones claim that he’s cut ties with the Wayne family.

Others link him to an increase in Red Robin sightings.

“Ok. Fine. I’ll be there.”

Tim begins scrolling through his notes, scanning for the right highlighted passage as he gets back to work. He fully expects Bruce to walk out then- and he has half a mind to tell him to close the door on his way out, lest any of his other family members start asking favors- but when he turns his head, he finds Bruce planted, still facing him with his arms crossed.

“What? I agreed. I said I’ll be there.”

“You’ll need a plus one as well.”

“What-“

Bruce holds up a hand, silencing him as he continues. He seems as exasperated as Tim feels. “Everyone else will be bringing someone. Come on Tim, it’s not so hard. Plus, it’ll look good for the public to see you engaging with others. People are starting to call you a recluse.”

“I don’t care what others say-“

“It’s not a discussion Tim. If Jason can find a plus one, then so can you.”

And with that he turns and heads out the door, leaving Tim before he has a chance to argue it any further. Mercifully, he does close the door on his way out- though it somehow feels too little, and much too late.

——

“A plus one?”

Kon’s voice sounds distracted on the other end of the line. And judging by the muffled sounds of gunfire- much too exaggerated and too chaotic to be real- Tim figures his friend must be gaming.

Good. He’s way more likely to say yes if his mind is elsewhere.

“Yeah,” Tim says, trying to keep his voice casual. His fingers find a loose string on his blanket, twisting the strand as he sits on his bed, debating how to continue. Causal is probably best- make it out that it’s not a big deal. “Just for some stupid gala thing, nothing huge.”

Kon groans, the word gala likely having been the trigger. Tim knew he should’ve called it a party. “C’mon Tim, you know I hate that stuff-“

“Not as much as I do,” Tim whines, changing his tune. Asking nicely is out, begging is in. Maybe he can guilt Kon into saying yes. “Come onnnnn, I can’t go without you. It’s gonna be so boring, so long, so exhausting-“

“You’re making a real great case for yourself. Have you considered getting into marketing? I mean, you’re really selling this whole gala thing-“

Tim huffs, letting himself fall back so that he’s laying flat on his back. “Please? I need you there Kon- for my sanity. What are best friends for?”

The other end is silent for a moment or two. Tim crosses his fingers, and then-

“Ugh,” he hears Kon huff. “Fine. I’ll be there.”

A grin spreads itself across Tim’s face as his heart slows in relief. “You’re the best Kon. Like, for real.”

“Mmmhmm,” Kon answers, as Tim turns his lights off with an app on his phone- thank you Jason- getting settled for bed. “By the way,” Kon continues. “Are we still on for our movie on Friday?”

Tim chews on the inside of his cheek as he tries to figure out the day- is it Monday? Wednesday? He remembers the assignment he’d been working on earlier, desperate to get it done before it’s midnight due date- and the assignment is due at twelve AM on Wednesday, which made today Tuesday. Plenty of time to get the rest of his work done by Friday.

“Yeah,” he answers. “Yeah, I’ll be free.”

“Cool.” Tim hears as Kon begins moving around, probably getting ready for bed himself. It’s late for the Kryptonian- typically he’s in bed and asleep much earlier, not being one to stay up all night like Tim. He’s likely exhausted, given the time.

The line is silent for quite a few minutes, apart from the shuffling sounds of Kon moving around his bedroom. Tim doesn’t hang up though- he just waits, staring up at his ceiling with his phone pressed on his ear.

His previous suspicions regarding Kon’s state of wakefullness are confirmed a moment later as Kon comes back to the phone, a rather long yawn penetrating the silence. “Well, I’m gonna head to bed. Pa has a list of chores for me to get done tomorrow, which I am not looking forward to.”

Tim smiles, imagining his friend with a laundry list of farm duties to get done. It’s funny, remembering that the Super lives such a normal life when he’s not in his colors. “You’ll be fine- just be careful with your TTK. Super strength isn’t always good in a practical setting-“

Kon groans. “Don’t you start too. Look- if I have a way to get things done quicker, I’m gonna use it, and-“ Kon cuts himself off with a sigh. “Anyway. Are you in bed?”

Tim hums in response.

“Good. You’re actually gotta get some sleep tonight, ok?”

Tim rolls his eyes. “Yes mom.”

“Shut up.”

The line goes silent. Tim wonders if Kon hung up on him.

He wonders why that thought makes his stomach twist.

Then Kon’s voice is back, as sweet as honey and as gentle as a light spring rain.

“Sorry, Ma didn’t know where I’d put the Tv remote. I’m actually not sure why she’s still up, but- anyway. G’night Tim. Sleep well.”

“Night Kon. See you Friday.”

——

Tim pulls out his phone the next day, having decided to look into the details of the Gala as soon as he got a free moment- details that he finds after a moment on an invitation in his spam folder. He could’ve asked Bruce, but that felt like admitting defeat.

He navigates to his texting with Kon, copying the important bits to send his way. Kon answers almost immediately, thumbs upping the message, and sending a middle finger as the icing on top. Tim just smiles, typing out a second message.

Tim: Btw, it’s black tie

Kon: idk what the fuck that means

Tim rolls his eyes, though he’s holding back a smile.

Tim: It means it’s fancy, but not so fancy that you need a tail coat.

Kon: a what?

Tim: Never mind. Just wear a suit

Kon: will you wear one too?

Tim: Duh

Kon: ooo. can’t wait to see you all dressed up ;)

Tim: Shut up.

Tim clicks his phone off then, his screen going dark and reflecting his own face back at him. He can feel a blush creeping up on his cheeks, which he quickly tries to will away, even if he is alone.

His phone buzzes again, a new message from Kon popping up on his notifications bar. Nothing long- just a few of the same emoji all in a row, to which Tim rolls his eyes. He shoves his phone back into his pocket, determined to get back to work.

The stupid winking-kiss emoji floats behind his eyelids the whole fucking day.

—

Friday comes sooner than Tim thought possible, leaving just over a week before the dreaded Gala. He’d dwell on its impending date more, except that he’s entirely preoccupied with his movie night with Kon. Instead of worrying about all the wrong things he might say to all the wrong people, he focuses on choosing the right movies for them to binge- Kon’s never seen Lord of the Rings, and he did promise Tim that he could pick their next movie… After all, he didn’t sit through every goddamn Fast and Furious movie for nothing.

After a bit of arguing- and a bit more persuading- Tim manages to get his way. They start with the first and start to work their way through them, lazing the night away, since neither of them have anything else to do- Dick’s in town early for the gala and had promised to take care of patrol that night for Tim, and Superboy isn’t needed at the moment. Which means they get to watch all three movies in one go.

Or, it means they can attempt to anyway.

It’s nice, finally getting a chance to relax. They’re settled in Tim’s room at the Manor, laying side by side in his bed, the lights dimmed and the curtains drawn. Annoyingly, he feels himself growing more and more tired the longer they lay there, the movie engaging but too familiar to keep him fully awake- after all, he’s already seen the movies a couple dozen times. They’re comforting to him in a way that he should’ve predicted would make him drowsy.

Before too long he finds himself drifting off, his head on Kon’s chest as the Fellowship reaches Lothlórien, the feeling of Kon’s hand running through his hair helping to lull him into sleep.

——

The day of the Gala is a scorcher- Tim vaguely wonders if he can feign heat stroke. Then he remembers that the whole event will be indoors, and that they’ll have an abundance of ice statues and what nots. If anything, he’ll be cold inside.

Besides, he couldn’t bail on Kon like that. It wouldn’t be fair, not after Kon actually took the time to procure a suit.

And he is mildly curious to see how his friend looks in a suit. For scientific reasons.

Just then his phone dings. He struggles to find it in his messy room- he definitely heard the sound, but where-

There. He finds his phone tangled in his blankets, the battery dangerously close to zero. He turns the brightness down to conserve energy, and opens up his texting.

Kon: i know i said i’d be there a few hours before it starts, but i cannot for the LIFE of me figure out how this suit goes together. i may be a little late

A second message pops through before Tim can reply.

Kon: actually, scratch that. pa makes a good case about me getting ready at your house- something about “everyone will notice if superboy flies to wayne manor in a suit”. i’ll head out now. hope you’re prepared to help me get ready

A few seconds later and there’s a knocking on his window. Tim hurries over to unlatch it, letting his friend tumble in, his hair windswept and a dress bag over his shoulder.

Kon grins, holding up the bag. “Ready to play dress up?”

——

Somehow, Tim manages to get Kon into his suit. At first, his friend is annoyingly contrary- loudly complaining just for the heck of complaining, making himself seem much more helpless than he really is, forcing Tim to practically dress the grown teen himself. However, once Kon realizes how good his ass and waist look in the suit- his whole attitude changes. Instead of a complaining Kon, Tim then has to deal with a smooth talking and charismatic Kon, with himself as the test subject for all of Kon’s flirtatious lines as he gets himself mentally prepped for the night. Most of them just make Tim laugh, though there are a few good ones in there.

Part of him doesn’t want Kon to remember the good ones when it comes time for him to use them on random rich girls. Tim tells himself it’s because he’s worried about being ditched. After all- he’d decided to bring Kon to keep himself entertained. It would suck beyond belief if he was abandoned within the first hour for some girl Kon will never see again.

They spend the rest of the time before the Gala going over a few Young Justice mission reports. Kon tries to resist, but Tim is determined they get some good out of the night. They manage to get through a couple, and before long it’s time for them to head down for the arrival of the guests. Kon grabs his tie off of Tim’s bed, fumbling as he attempts to tie it. Tim tries walking him through it step by step, but he gives up after Kon manages to tie it into an actual honest to god knot. He rolls his eyes and steps closer, working his magic as he ties it perfectly in one go.

He lingers for a moment, still up in Kon’s personal space. His friend’s cologne is strongest that way, and Tim inhales it deeply, thankful for the calming effect it has on his nerves.

“Ready?” Kon murmurs a moment later. Tim snaps his head up, blinking to refocus his vision.

“Yup. Let’s go.”

——

Slowly but surely, he makes it through the Gala. Yes, it’s incredibly boring- Tim would rather eat glass than keep sitting through it. But it’s more manageable with Kon beside him, whispering jokes that no one else can hear, nudging his leg under the dinner table to get his attention when someone says something so annoyingly posh that they both have to hold in laughter-

If Tim didn’t know any better, he might even say that he’s… enjoying himself. Which is entirely absurd.

He hopes Bruce doesn’t notice, or he can say goodbye to ditching the next five or so Galas.

And unless Kon is willing to attend all five… well. Tim would like to avoid that.

The evening passes in flashes of small talk, in clips of orchestra music. Miraculously, Kon doesn’t leave Tim’s side, not even once. Despite all of his practicing, he doesn’t even try flirting with any girls, nothing beyond his usual charismatic banter anyway. Tim would blame it on no one being interested, except that there are quite a few attractive females who tend to hover wherever the two of them end up, and Tim knows that they aren’t there for him. They giggle and bat their eyes at Kon, staring openly at his ass, at his jawline, at his earring, at his face- all while shamelessly leaning forward to show off their chests, their fingers twirling their hair as they bite their lips.

Why Kon doesn’t flirt back is a mystery to Tim. He must really care about helping Tim not feel bored to miss the girls who are so clearly throwing themselves at him.

The thought brightens Tim’s already chipper mood.

His mood is further brightened when the girls eventually leave them be, scowls on their faces as Kon grabs Tim’s hand to pull him off to a corner for a more quiet setting, where he pulls up pictures of the motorcycle he plans on buying soon. Tim smiles, nodding his head as he leans in closer for a better look, completely clueless as to why the girls left them alone, but giddy all the same.

It’s not until the next day that he thinks any further into it.

——

“When did you and Kent make it official?”

Tim nearly chokes on his cereal at Jason’s words, so casually spoken over the dining room table. He’s suddenly thankful that he over slept- they’re alone just now, the others all having finished eating. Kon isn’t even awake yet, still sleeping off all the liquor that he definitely-didn’t-drink the night before.

Tim clears his throat with a sip of water, still coughing as he looks over at Jason. “What?“

Jason rolls his eyes. “You and Superboy? Clark Kent’s clone? The guy who was hanging off your arm all night? The one you brought as your date? Ring any bells?”

Tim stares stupidly back at him. Jason rolls his eyes again.

“When did you guys start dating?” He asks, his voice exaggeratedly slow. “You never told any of us.”

Tim finally manages to find his voice. “We- were not dating. He was just my plus one.”

Jason scoffs. “Whatever. I didn’t care anyway- just mildly curious. Forget I asked.”

And with that he stands, grabbing his empty bowl and striding out of the room.

Leaving Tim alone with his half eaten cereal and a million thoughts on his mind.

——

They aren’t dating. Right?

The thought keeps Tim up that night as he lays side by side with Kon. His friend had decided to spend the night again, after they’d stayed up much too late continuing their Lord of the Rings marathon from the previous week. He’d been too lazy to fly back home, and too tired to deal with his Pa’s nagging about the chores that he’d shirked that day, causing Jon to pick up the slack. It had just made sense that he stay with him.

But as Tim looks at his friend’s sleeping form, his chest rising and falling with each breath, his lips slightly parted as his breath brushes Tim’s neck- he can’t help but wonder at what Jason had said.

Friends… friends did this, right? They shared beds when there was only one. Sure, the Manor was full of guest rooms, but they’d been watching a movie. It made sense. And as for the way that they were intertwined, with Kon’s arms wrapped around his chest and his face buried in neck- well. Friends could cuddle.

And as for being his plus one- you could bring a plus one who was just a friend. Tim’s seen it done a dozen times. It’s perfectly normal.

Just then, the way that the girls had reacted to Kon dragging Tim away popped into his head. It hadn’t seemed like a big deal in the moment, but now he tries to see it from their eyes. Had they taken it to mean that Tim was Kon’s boyfriend? That the guy they were all fawning over was taken?

Tim wasn’t sure. He’d never been good at all that social stuff, never good at sending and interpreting different cues. To him, it had all seemed like normal best friend behavior. And everyone loved their best friend, wanted to be around them all the time. Felt safe and at peace around them. It’s normal.

Normal people don’t get jealous when girls make eyes at their best friend, a voice whispers in Tim’s mind. And normal friends don’t have routine movie nights that end in cuddle sessions- nor do they text and call eachother every single day for hours on end, and they also don’t playfully wrestle in bed-

Shit. Are they dating?

Tim lets the thought settle in his mind. He… doesn’t hate the idea. Typically, thoughts of dating and such make him wrinkle his nose. Sure, he’d really liked Steph when he’d gone out with her, and yeah, he’d had other crushes in the past. But he doesn’t get nearly as many surface ones as all his friends seem to. His attention always seems to lay elsewhere, until he’s suddenly filled with a deep obsession for a person that he can’t seem to shake.

He hasn’t had one of those in a long time. Not since his obsession with the annoyingly confident new kid on the Young Justice team had rocked his world, seeping into every crevice of his mind as he ruminated on everything that made him get on his nerves-

Until he didn’t. And ever since he’s been best friends with Kon, and the two of them have been inseparable. And no, he hasn’t really gotten crushes since then, besides his little thing with Steph. And no, he hasn’t wanted to date anyone, not in the same time that he’s been so close to Kon.

It’s all too confusing. His head feels jumbled, and it doesn’t help that Kon’s hot breath ghosts along his skin every few seconds, reminding him again and again of his presence.

Tim doesn’t sleep a wink.

——

He forgets about it the next week or two. Life goes back to normal, an endless loop of school, patrol, missions, training. He sees Kon a few times in the mix, but by then he’s so worn down that he doesn’t think twice, just falls back into step with how their routine has been.

But then his conversation with Jason comes back to him all at once. It’s as they’re siting together in Kon’s bed, Tim situated between Kon’s legs, his back leaning against his chest- that he remembers it. They’re playing Mario Kart just now, both of their competitive streaks making themselves known as they go neck in neck through Coconut Mall. Tim narrowly defeats Kon, pulling ahead at just the last second to win, all thanks to a little shortcut Tim had learned from Jason.

Jason…

The Gala. The girls. The morning after. He remembers it all in flashes, his mind spinning out of control as they start the next race. He does his best to stay focused, to not let Jason get to him- but when has his best ever been good enough?

“Hey Kon?” Tim asks, his eyes glued to the screen. He’s behind in the race just now, his distracted mind lending itself to his pixelized downfall.

“Hmm?” Kon answers as he pulls ahead into first place.

“Are you dating anyone right now?”

He feels as Kon’s muscles tense, just for a moment, before he relaxes again.

“Why do you ask?”

Tim shrugs, mashing the buttons to make his car go faster with the aid of a golden mushroom. “I’m just curious.”

“I mean, you know me better than anyone,” Kon starts, slamming on the breaks to avoid having a blue shell hit him. “I spend all my time with you- when would I have time to date someone?”

His answer fills Tim with a bit of relief that he can’t quite place. “Yeah, which leads me to another question-“ Tim steels himself, reminding himself that he doesn’t care what the answer is. “Are we dating?”

“Are we- what?”

Tim feels his face flush. He does his best to appear disinterested, shrugging as he focuses on the game. “Never mind.”

Kon shifts behind him, his car bumping into a guard rail as he gets distracted. “No, wait- what? And why-?”

Tim sighs. “Jason asked me. ‘Cause of the Gala. Since I brought you and everything.”

At that Kon scoffs, his head back in the game. “Don’t let Jason get in your head. He’s stupid. We’re just friends- and besides, dating is between like, a guy and a girl. Not two guys.”

Tim rolls his eyes. And debates decking Kon for his stupidity. He settles for digging his elbow into his gut. “C’mon Kon, that’s so homophobic. As a society we’re like, decades past that crap.”

Kon’s car cuts Tim’s off in the game. “No I just meant- I’m sorry, that was insensitive. I just mean… it’s us. We aren’t couple material. If I was gonna date someone, it’d be a girl, ya know?”

Tim sinks down into his hoodie. Kon’s hoodie, actually. He’d been chilly, so Kon had offered it up- right off of his own back. The fabric still smells of his cologne. “Yeah,” Tim mumbles. “Yeah I figured.”

The answer was as he’d expected- as he’d wanted- so why does Tim feel so empty inside? So cold, despite the warmth of his friend around him? He wonders if it’s because Kon had so quickly dismissed it, as if the notion of dating Tim was ridiculous. Yes, yes that must be it. That would make sense.

It’s as he’s zoning out, getting lost in his thoughts as he falls behind in the race, that he hears Kon ask “Wanna spend the night?”

Tim hums in agreement.

“Good. I like knowing you’re actually sleeping.”

Tim’s stomach ties itself into knots. He doubts he’ll be sleeping tonight.

——

Weeks bleed together as time keeps moving. Work, train, study, patrol, missions, repeat.

Somehow, everything is normal between Tim and Kon, despite the awkward conversation they’d had. Nothing changes.

Except, everything does.

Because now Tim’s looking for it. He’s searching for the things that don’t add up in their friendship, the little ways that their care seems too deep for that of just a friend. And he hates it, hates that he’s noticing things- things that he so blissfully ignored before. It’s like a stain on a shirt, or a hair out of place- once it’s pointed out, you can’t stop seeing it.

And he sees it everywhere.

Like when Kon invites Tim to go on a family vacation with him and the Kent’s, and he’s the only non family member there. And while they spend a week in the mountains, Tim and Kon share one room, one bed even. They do everything together, spend every waking second in eachother’s company.

Someone offers to take their picture after they hike to the top of one of the peaks with a tour group, and the woman who took the photo comments that they’re a cute couple, to which Kon just laughs.

For Tim, it’s another mark in his book. It’s someone else who sees what Jason saw.

Another event comes and goes- this one much less formal, although still one that Tim is given the option to bring someone to. It’s a fancy dinner and dance recital for Cass, some show that she’d gotten into that was finally performing. He brings Kon with him, and Cass excitedly hugs them both at the end, one joint hug as though they were a package deal- which is not enough that Tim really takes note, except that Jason is there too, and he raises a brow at Tim. It’s only then that he realizes he’s standing awfully close to Kon, and that his friend’s hand is resting on his lower back.

He blushes and turns away. And later that night, he spends hours googling ‘how to tell if he likes me?’

He ends up feeling more stupid than ever, and just as confused. He wonders if all best friends feel this way, even just a little.

He wonders why he cares so much.

——

Their linked nature begins to seep into other people’s lives too, beginning with the first call Tim receives as Kon’s emergency contact for his high school- something that Tim was unaware about until the moment he got the call.

It isn’t anything serious- apparently Kon had gotten into a fight with someone, which in itself seems rather odd to Tim, though the school secretary won’t disclose more information when she discovers that Tim isn’t Kon’s guardian. Instead they just ask for Kon’s Ma or Pa’s numbers, which Tim provids. When he texts Kon about it later, he says someone was being stupid and talking homophobic about someone, and that it got under Kon’s skin. The whole thing feels a bit ironic to Tim, given what Kon had said a few weeks earlier, but he lets it slide. Maybe Kon is growing.

Regardless, the whole ordeal makes him feel a bit lighter somehow.

And instances like that keep happening. Jon starts texting Tim whenever he can’t find Kon, assuming that his brother must be with him if not at home. And according to Kon, Bruce and Alfred have taken to contacting the Kent’s when Tim goes under the radar- which he does not appreciate, as it’s led to more than a few lectures from Kon’s Ma and Pa about safety and going out alone without telling anyone where you’ll be and what not.

As if they didn’t raise not one, but two Kyrptonian vigilantes. Although, Tim does suppose that Kon has more rules than he does.

The Kent’s often end the talks when Kon takes Tim’s hand, interlacing their fingers as he drags him out of the room. Kon’s Ma and Pa then sigh and call after them, telling Kon to be a good influence on Tim, and to keep him safe and to keep an eye on him. Which annoys both of them to no end.

Sometimes, Kon doesn’t drop his hand after they’re gone. Sometimes he keeps his hold, Tim’s usually cold hand soaking in the warmth of Kon’s own. They’ll head out then to stroll around the farm, swinging their joined hands as they goof around, laughing as they walk through the fields.

One time, Kon stops to pick a handful of the wild flowers growing in a patch of lilac and white. He gives the small bundle to Tim after, his face glowing as Tim’s cheeks heat, though he accepts the gift. Of course he does. Because friends give eachother gifts.

And they are just friends still… right? After all- Kon’s answer had been pretty clear cut. There wasn’t room for debate.

Tim considers. He supposes that they never really cross the line in their friendship. After all, they don’t kiss or anything like that. And sure, they cuddle. And they hold hands sometimes, and they make eachother meals. And they often share clothes, and they each have bottles of their preferred shampoos in the other’s showers-

But they’re not a couple. Tim’s certain of it. People who date do couples shit- like kissing, which Tim and Kon do not do.

——

Until they do.

It happens as they’re sitting there one night, the end credits to a movie rolling in the background. They’re in Tim’s room this time, though it’s Kon’s homework that’s spread out on the bed with them.

Calculus. Not exactly a strong subject for Kon.

Which is why Tim is helping him out, running through each of Kon’s answers and his process, making sure he’d done each problem right, and marking them when it’s wrong. Most of them end up getting marked wrong, but Kon doesn’t mind. Somehow he doesn’t take his shortcomings as a personal slam at his own worth, something that Tim knows he should start trying for himself.

He’s situated in his usual spot, between Kon’s legs, his back pressed up against his chest as he finishes up with the page. Kon rests his chin on Tim’s shoulder, peering at all the marked answers.

“Ok, so out of the fifty questions, you got…” Tim counts. “Seven correct.” He turns his head to the side, meeting Kon’s gaze. “Seriously- you’ve gotta start learning how to do these. Don’t you wanna graduate?”

Kon laughs. “I’ll be fine. You’ve been helping keep my grade up, so it’s all good.”

Tim scoffs. “Only because I cave and don’t let you turn these monstrosities in. If I stopped helping, you’d be doomed.”

Kon’s face splits into his radiant smile. “Which is why you won’t stop helping, right?”

And how can Tim say no to that? He sighs, resigning himself. “No, I won’t,” he mumbles.

“Good,” Kon chuckles. And then it happens. Their faces are already only a few inches apart, so closing the gap isn’t hard to do. And Kon closes it easily, no hesitation, no awkwardness. He leans in and brushes his lips against Tim’s own, energy flowing like lightning inside of Tim, bursting forth from the point of contact.

Kon pulls away a second later, the soft smile still on his mouth- the mouth that had just been pressed against Tim’s-

And then he picks up the calculus sheet that Tim had dropped in his shock. He begins scanning all his wrong answers, a crease forming between his brows as he thinks. As if nothing had just passed between them.

Tim recovers a moment later. He pushes down all his confusion, all the butterflies, all his longing-

And they continue on with Kon’s homework.

——

After that, they start to kiss more frequently. It becomes a part of who they are, an integral part of their friendship. As if it had always belonged. As if they’d never gone without it.

It starts off with careful pecks- and they only ever happen in a setting that one could disregard. Kon kisses Tim to distract him from a video game so that he can win at the last moment. Tim kisses Kon after he returns home safe after a particularly dangerous mission, one that had made Tim worried sick for a whole week. Kon kisses him goodnight after Tim’s had an awful day, when he’s falling asleep sitting upright in Kon’s bed.

It’s all sweet stuff, all just a gesture to show their care.

And then it’s… more.

They start to kiss longer, start to savor the press of their lips. They start kissing for no reason too. They start to lessen their focus on the movies that they watch together, more interested in mapping out eachother’s mouths, in panting in the dim light as their hands explore through their clothes, both of them perhaps too nervous or perhaps unwilling to do much more.

Tim doesn’t know what it means. It’s all too confusing, too muddled and murky. Hanging out with Kon stops feeling the way it always did, stops feeling easy and relaxed and starts to feel… odd.

Though… if he’s honest with himself, he finds that he can place the odd feeling.

He likes Kon. A lot. Maybe he’s always liked him. Maybe he’s liked him since the first moment he’d laid eyes on him, since the first mission they went on together, the two of them butting heads beyond belief.

Maybe he more than likes him. Maybe he’s more than liked him for a while too.

It’s all so stupid. Of course he’d fall for the guy he didn’t stand a chance with. The guy who wouldn’t like him back.

The guy who didn’t even like guys.

And sure, they’ve been kissing. Which definitely crossed a line from friend to something else. But based on what Kon had said all those months ago, based on their lack of communication since- surely it doesn’t mean a thing. Kon must just be lonely, having gone so long without a girlfriend. He must miss the feeling of having someone to hold, someone to kiss, someone to learn. That’s all. Their relationship hasn’t changed at all, only Tim’s perception of it has.

He finds himself hating Jason a bit, for making him question their relationship at all.

Stupid, stupid, stupid.

——

Tim tries to stop letting himself overthink it. He starts to accept it at face value, starts to see the good thing for what it’s worth. He has Kon. Not completely, not for real- but he has him.

He’s still his best friend. And Kon still cares about him. There’s no use making this more complicated by overthinking it. And sure, it’ll be over one day. When Kon gets bored maybe, or finds someone new. But can’t Tim enjoy it now, while it’s here and in his face?

And with that new mindset in place, Tim slowly but surely gets through the next few weeks.

——

Christmas at the Manor is always a sight to behold- Bruce swears he wouldn’t care if they didn’t celebrate at all, but that’s never stopped Alfred from going all out. He decorates the place simply but elegantly, with garlands and red bows lining all the bannisters, white lights twinkling in the windows, and the smell of gingerbread always wafting out from the kitchen.

The actual day starts with a very early morning patrol- then they all crash and sleep until past midday, when they rise and do all the classic holiday activities. Tim invites Kon over after they’ve had a very late breakfast of Alfred’s cinnamon rolls, and before long his friend is there, along with Clark and Jon. Shortly after Jason invites Roy over, and Wally and Barbara came over for Dick. That, plus Damain and Stephanie and Cass and Duke- and the manor is feeling quite crowded. Tim doesn’t always enjoy large crowds, and even though he knows everyone, and the mood is very warm and friendly- he finds himself needing to retreat away more than once.

So he and Kon slip away together, off to the library where they sit side by side on a love seat by one of the vast windows, looking out at the snow covered ground. Watching as the downy flakes softly fall from the skin. Tim ends up leaning into Kon, resting his head on his shoulder as he tucks his knees up to his chest.

“I have something for you,” Kon murmurs a while later. Tim lifts his head, turning to face him.

“Me too actually-“

“Me first,” Kon quickly says, pulling a small box from his pocket. He hands it to Tim.

It’s neatly wrapped in red and white striped paper, a little tag on the top reading ’To my sun. Love Kon’ Tim pretends that this isn’t the first time that Kon’s said or written out the words ‘I love you’, pretends that it doesn’t make his heart leap.

With his fingers quivering just a bit- he’ll blame that on the slight chill that always seeps into the Manor’s old bones- he peels away the paper, revealing a plain black box. A jewelry box by the looks of it.

He opens it. Inside is a small sun pendant, threaded with a delicate silver chain. The whole thing looks awfully expensive, and Tim knows that Kon doesn’t have access to the kind of money he does.

Selfishly, he doesn’t care. It only makes the gesture all the more sweet, only makes him love the little silver necklace all the more.

“Put it on,” Kon prompts. And then he helps him, taking out the necklace and reaching out to clasp it around Tim’s neck. He draws his touch away slowly, smiling as he takes in the sight of Tim.

“Well?” Tim asks.

“Perfect,” Kon answers. His fingers linger on the little sun, tracing the outline where it rests right over Tim’s breastbone. Over his heart, he thinks, if he were poetic and not scientific, if he didn’t know his heart really rested a little ways back and to the left.

Kon smiles, a soft and vulnerable expression on his face, and Tim just melts. Screw science. He can afford to be a bit poetic just now.

“Why a sun?” He asks, his voice soft. He thinks he already knows.

He needs Kon to confirm it.

“Because you’re my sun,” he whispers, leaning in close to Tim’s face. “I need the sun for energy. As a Kryptonian it fuels me, gives me life. And that’s exactly what you do for me too.”

Tim isn’t sure he can breathe. But then Kon kisses him, and for once everything feels right in the world. Hands thread into his hair and he sinks into Kon’s hold, reaching out to touch him, to caress his face-

“-Gonna start playing cards, so if you plan on joining us- oh-“

Dick’s voice startles both Tim and Kon. They jump back from eachother, both their faces painted scarlet as Dick stares back at the two of them, his face quickly morphing from shock into pure joy.

“Sorry- Sorry! I didn’t think you guys were- sorry! We’re gonna play cards in the game room, but you guys can join us whenever you want. Sorry for bothering you, be safe, bye!”

Dick is out the door with his last words, closing it behind him as Tim buries his face into his hands. Kon just laughs, having recovered much easier than Tim. He wraps his arms around Tim’s body, pulling him close as he chuckles.

“C’mon Tim, it’s just Dick. And we were even doing anything-“

“He’s probably gonna go tell everyone-“

“So?” Kon asks, and… well. He’s got a point. Everyone knows about everything else that they do, knows how they spend more nights together than apart. So why does this feel so different?

“Besides,” Kon continues. “You said you had a gift for me…?”

Tim snorts out a laugh, smacking Kon as he pulls away. Though he does get up then, walking over to the library desk, on top of which he had stowed his own gift the other day.

He grabs the square gift bag and brings it over, setting it down on the loveseat between them.

Kon opens it quickly, pulling out the four vinyls from inside. All original copies- in perfect condition too- of Kon’s favorite AC/DC albums.

“Holy shit Tim-“

“You’re welcome,” Tim says, laughing as Kon reverently holds them, looking back up at Tim with enough excitement to mirror that of a little kid on… well… Christmas.

“Did I ever mention that you’re like, the best bestfriend a guy could ask for?”

The word friend manages to stab through Tim’s heart like a goddamn knife. He pretends he doesn’t feel it.

“No,” he says with a smile, his finger playing with the new sun pendant around his neck. “But I guess I have this remind me now.”

Kon grins, leaning in to kiss him again, though this one is soft and chaste.

Somehow it makes Tim’s heart ache.

And then he’s rising off the couch, grabbing Tim’s hand to pull him up and along, chatting on about not wanting to miss playing poker with the Dark Knight himself. Tim rolls his eyes as he follows- Kon doesn’t need to know that while Bruce’s poker face is impeccable, his card skills are… well. Lacking.

Later that night, after lots of eggnog and Alfred’s famous gingerbread cookies- after everyone’s gone home, leaving the Manor silent but cozy, the remnants of the day still strewn about on the main room’s tables and floor in the form of discarded wrapping paper that Alfred won’t make them clean until the next day- after all the others settle down into the theater to put on The Santa Clause, Dick pulls Tim aside.

“Care to help me grab mugs of hot chocolate?”

“Sure,” Tim agrees, eager to give Alfred a much deserved break. He follows his brother down the halls and into the kitchen, where they both begin setting out supplies for nine mugs of hot chocolate.

“So,” Dick starts, and already Tim knows where things are going, but better they discuss it away from the others than in front of them. “When did you and Kon start dating? I mean, I know you two have always been close, and always liked eachother, but-“

“We’re not.”

Dick laughs. “C’mon Tim, I saw you guys. I won’t tell anyone if you guys aren’t ready, but-“

“No, we really aren’t,” Tim insists, pouring chocolate sauce into each mug. “We’re just friends.” The word feels bitter in his mouth.

Dick frowns as he begins steaming the milk. “But- but I saw-“

Tim sighs, frustration and hurt souring his perfect mood. Why did Dick have to bring attention to it now of all times? Couldn’t Tim just enjoy the high of Kon’s gift for one day?

“I don’t know Dick. We just… we’re just friends.” Tim picks up an unopened bag of marshmallows, struggling to get it open. He tugs and tugs, and still the thing won’t give.

“You don’t know? Or you haven’t talked about it?”

Tim grits his teeth. Why does Dick know him so well? “It’s complicated.”

“C’mon Tim, I know it’s more than that.”

“Dick-“

“You can talk to me-“

Tim huffs. “He wouldn’t wanna date someone like me, ok?” With a final tug the bag splits open, tiny marshmallows spilling all over the counter, all over the floor. Tim suddenly feels like crying, and he doesn’t even know why.

“Tim…” Dick’s voice is soft, soothing. He quickly turns the stove off, before turning and wrapping Tim up in a hug, one that Tim wants to resist at first- but before long he’s sinking into it, closing his eyes as he lets his emotions pass. Emotions that he hadn’t realized he’d been harboring- anger at Kon for playing him, for confusing his feelings. Anger at himself for allowing it to go on so long, despite knowing how Kon felt. Longing and sadness and hurt that never seems to go away even in Kon’s presence, knowing he can never have him the way he wants him. It all crashes over him like a wave, the emotions too large to fit back onto the their small box, as if once exposed to the air they expanded, and Tim’s mind can no longer contain them all.

And so they stand there, little marshmallows littering the floor around them as they wait. After a while Tim speaks, his voice soft and strangely hoarse. “He told me, a while ago. After the gala. He pretty much confirmed he only likes girls, so.”

Dick stiffens, and then leans back to look at him. “Oh Tim, honey… that’s- that’s literally impossible.”

Tim pulls away, frowning. “I don’t know, I’m not him. That’s just what he said, and he never retracted the statement. And then today he said I’m the ‘best bestfriend a guy could ask for’,” Tim’s heart clenches at the memory. “Anyway, he would’ve told me if he changed his mind.”

Dick sighs. He places his hands on Tim’s shoulders, looking him in the eye as he speaks. “Talk to him again.”

“But-“

“No ‘buts’,” Dick says as he turns, salvaging the hot chocolates by pouring the still steaming milk into the mugs one at a time. “He’s not being honest with himself, or with you. This isn’t normal friend behavior Tim. Like, at all.”

Tim shrugs. “It’s how we’ve always been.”

At that Dick just slowly shakes his head, grabbing the whipped cream to top each mug off. “Talk to him Tim. Trust me.”

——

Tim tries to work up the nerve. He really does. In the days after Christmas he sees Kon a dozen times, but every time he considers bringing up the topic of dating his tongue goes dry and his brain turns to TV static as his stomach starts churning faster than a whirlpool in the Bermuda Triangle.

And while he doesn’t talk to Kon about the stuff going on between them, he does spend a lot of time playing with his gifted necklace, staring at the perfect little sun and hearing Kon’s words in his head on a loop. You’re my sun.

Maybe Dick is right. There’s no way that can’t mean something more, right? There’s no way he meant that as just a friend.

Right?

He really does have to work up the nerve to ask him. It’s just… he can’t. Because what if he ruins whatever it is that they do have? What if he squashes whatever second thoughts Kon’s been having about only wanting to date girls, what if he sets them back tremendously- or worse, what if it ends their friendship entirely?

He can’t. He can’t ask. He just… he can’t.

But it turns out he doesn’t have to.

——

New Year’s day approaches quickly once the bustle of the holidays is over, and with it comes the New Years Gala. Tim had, of course, tried every method he could think of to get out of it, but it really was no luck. Bruce had already put his foot down- just like with the Summer Gala, Tim’s presence is required.

This time, he doesn’t wait for Bruce to ask him to bring a plus one. He’d reached out to Kon the moment he realized there was no escape, and just as before, Kon agreed.

On the day of, the process of getting ready goes much smoother compared to the Summer Gala, despite the fact that this one is white tie, meaning Kon had needed a whole new tux and a tailcoat. They ready themselves in Tim’s room before heading down into the banquet hall, which is already decked out with elegant ice sculptures, twinkling lights, and snowy white flowers. The tables are all laid out with place cards and silverware, the auction table set up with various pieces to bid on from a variety of donors. The rest of Tim’s family is there too, talking amongst themselves as they await the first guests. Kon immediately pulls them over to stand with Steph and Duke, the former whom, to Tim’s surprise, shoots him a genuine smile after she spots Tim’s and Kon’s hands interlaced.

“How does this one work again?” Duke asks, nervously adjusting his bow tie. Tim can tell based on the restlessness in his fingers that he’s done so quite a few times already.

“Don’t worry,” Steph reassures him. “It’s like I said- It’s the same as the Summer Gala, just this one is more dancing and fancy wear and stuff. No biggie.”

“Easy for you to say, you’ve already been to this one a few times.” Duke adjusts his bow tie yet again, causing Steph to smack his hand down.

“Hey, I’m in this with you,” Kon offers a reassuring grin. “I’ve never had to get this fancy before.”

Steph rolls her eyes, a grin tugging at her mouth. “I mean, you don’t technically have to be here-“

“But I want to be,” Kon says simply. “I couldn’t just ditch Tim. Not when there’s dancing.”

Duke groans at that, the reminder clearly not helping. Tim smiles in sympathy. “It’s really not so bad. I’ve been going to stuff like this since I was old enough to stand still and be quiet. No one really pays you any attention if you just socialize politely. Ask about their holidays, talk about plans for the coming new year. And when it comes time for dancing, place yourself near the auction table. No one who’s over there will be thinking of asking someone to dance- their mind will be on the different auction items.”

Steph raises a brow as Duke nods fervently, his brows knit as he likely tries to commit it all to memory.

“That’s actually some decent advice Tim,” Steph says.

Tim shrugs. “I learned to survive these stupid things ages ago. It’s all about how best to disappear, especially when it’s time to dance.”

“No no, not tonight,” Kon interrupts, slowly shaking his head. “When the music starts, I fully expect you to be at my side, asking me to dance. Do you hear me?”

Tim rolls his eyes, though his cheeks flush ever so slightly. “You’re not serious, are you?”

Kon grins, leading Steph to giggle.

“No, Kon- c’mon-“

“Nope! Don’t wanna hear it. You had me come, and I’m here now, so we’d better get to fuckin dance.”

Tim groans, but he doesn’t get a chance to reply, seeing as the guests start pouring in as if on cue.

The start of the Gala goes as expected, with lots of mingling and talking and introductions. Kon stays faithfully by Tim’s side the entire time, politely greeting each new person. Tim doesn’t know what to introduce him as- his friend? His boyfriend? His partner? He settles for none of them, just introducing Kon by his name.

Before long the orchestra starts up, the signal to all the attendees that it’s time to dance. Couples start pairing as they head to the center of the room to begin a waltz, everyone falling into place like gears of a clock. Tim watches from the corner of his eye as Duke tries edging his way to the auction table, only to be stopped by some middle aged woman- some business man’s wife- who quickly asks him to dance.

A soft nudge to his shoulder causes him to turn, finding Kon waiting patiently beside him, his face expectant. So he was serious then.

Tim takes in a breath. “Er- Kon. Would you, uh. Like to dance?”

Kon’s smile nearly takes Tim’s breath away. He reaches out, grabbing Tim’s hand and guiding him out onto the floor, before pulling him close and putting one hand on his waist, the other interlacing with his free hand.

“Who’s leading?” Tim asks.

“You’re the expert, aren’t you?”

Tim swallows, wondering why his palms suddenly feel sweaty. He’s danced a waltz a hundred times. He knows this, knows it much too well. And it’s just Kon.

“Ok,” he says, and before he can think twice, he starts the steps.

It comes to him naturally, once he gets himself moving, and Kon isn’t too bad himself. Elegantly he leads Kon across the floor, their bodies moving as one, fluidly weaving through the other couples, swooping and turning along with the melody. A small corner of Tim’s mind points out to him that they’re the only boy boy couple there- but he does his best to ignore it. After all- Kon’s ignoring it. And wasn’t he the one that this stuff bothered? And if he isn’t bothered then maybe-

Maybe Kon’s changed his mind.

The first song ends and bleeds into the next, which leads into yet another. Tim stays out on the dance floor with Kon, his chest swelling as Kon smiles warmly at him, the two of them never missing a step. They finish with the third song, and Tim can’t help but laugh as Kon bows deeply, jokingly thanking him formally for the dance before offering his arm. Tim gladly takes it, allowing himself to be led over to the dinner tables. He scans the room for Duke, having forgotten during his dancing to keep an eye out for him- and finds him standing near the auction table with a girl around their age, quietly but animatedly talking. Whatever he says must be funny, seeing as she doubles over laughing, causing Duke to grin from ear to ear.

Good, Tim thinks, pleased to see Duke blending in so well to this lifestyle. And then Kon is nudging his arm, gesturing over to some drunk who is being shepherded out by his flushed and embarrassed wife, and Tim’s focus is back on his friend. His partner? His boyfriend?

He really needs to ask.

The rest of the night passes smoothly from there. Dinner is served with desserts to follow, and before long there are speeches and thank you’s and the auction begins. After a while Tim gets a bit restless, bouncing his knee under the table as he deals with being stuck in one place for too long. Damian shoots him a look from across the table, though try as he might, he can’t stop himself.

And then Kon’s hand is under the table, his palm pressing down onto his thigh.

Tim stills immediately.

But Kon doesn’t pull away. Instead he leaves his hand there, his thumb gently brushing back and forth, rubbing soft circles into Tim’s thigh. His heart feels like it might burst from his chest.

Before long it’s time for the countdown, with glasses of champagne and grape juice being passed around for all the attendees. Kon sneaks them both a glass of champagne, and they go to stand by one of the walls as the ten second countdown begins.

At one a thousand white rose petals drop from the ceiling, fluttering down like snow as people cheer and drink their champagne. Kon and Tim toast and both take a quick sip, and then Kon is pulling Tim in, pulling him close as his hand moves to cup his cheek, his lips pressing into his own. Tim startles at the publicness of the gesture, but then he’s moving too, kissing Kon back to start their new year. When Kon pulls away, Tim notes that his cheeks are flushed, a sight he often doesn’t see on the Kryptonian.

His eyes slide past Kon’s face then, noting Dick standing just a few feet behind him. His brother smiles, gesturing with his head to the hallway. ”Go on”, he mouths. And Tim doesn’t need to be told twice.

He pulls Kon along, leading him out into the blissfully empty hallway. He doesn’t bother making their excuses to anyone- it’s late enough that people will begin splitting off, either to settle into a guest room for the night, too intoxicated to head out, or to head on home. Tim guides Kon back up to his bedroom, where they both change into much more comfortable clothes, and then he brings them back down the stairs, through various hallways until they come to the Manor’s Theater, which is just as empty as he’d hoped.

“We never did finish watching the third Lord of the Rings,” Tim says, walking over to grab the remote. Kon grabs various blankets from a basket near the wall, bringing them over to the main couch where he flops down and beckons Tim over.

“Well, it’s still not my favorite, but… I guess we can… since you did dance with me and all.”

Tim grins, walking over to the couch, curling up at Kon’s side and laying his head on his shoulder. Kon’s arm slides around his waist, pulling him close as they restart the movie, both of them having forgotten where they’d left off.

A little while in and Kon speaks, breaking the peaceful silence that had settled between them.

“Hey uh, Tim?”

“Hmm?”

“Can we talk?” Kon pulls back then, biting his lip as he faces him. Tim takes the cue to pause their movie, turning to fully face Kon as he waits.

“Do you remember when you asked if we were dating?”

Tim’s heart skips a beat. And then it starts pounding at a furious pace, so loud that he’s certain Kon can hear it even without his super hearing.

“Yes,” he whispers back, his throat too dry to get much louder.

“Well, I um,” Kon swallows, his tongue peeking out to wet his lips. “I think my answer’s changed.”

“Yeah?” Tim asks. His heart feels ready to explode.

“Yeah,” Kon answers, gently reaching his hand out to grab Tim’s own. Kon looks down at their interlaced fingers, his thumb rubbing on the smooth skin on the back of Tim’s hand. He looks up at him then, his eyes soft in the dim light. “What about you?”

“My answer’s always been the same,” Tim murmurs back. “I just don’t think I knew it back then.”

A soft smile spreads across Kon’s face, all his gestures softening as he gazes at Tim.

“I think I like you Tim. Like, more than like. I think-“ Tim leans in, silencing Kon with his mouth. The kiss is chaste but firm, searing but gentle.

“I love you Kon,” Tim murmurs against his lips. He can feel as Kon shivers, his hand coming up to tangle in Tim’s hair.

“I love you too,” Kon answers, pulling back a bit to look into Tim’s eyes. “I think I always have. I was just too dumb to see it.”

Tim grins back at him, everything inside his being feeling light and floaty, like he might drift away at any moment.

“So… we’re not just friends?” He teases, his grin slowly creeping into a full on smile.

“No,” Kon answers, a soft laugh escaping his lips. “I don’t think we ever were.”

And really- Tim’s got to agree.

——

The next morning Tim makes a point to find Jason, hunting through the Manor until he comes across him in the library, his nose buried in a book, which Tim recognizes as one that Bruce had gifted to Jason for Christmas. He doesn’t look up from the book at the sound of Tim walking in, nor does he glance up even after Tim clears his throat.

Asshole.

He walks right up to Jason then, decides that he’s alright with dying, and waves his hand in front of his eyes.

”For the love of god what?”

Tim smiles, still feeling giddy from the night before. “You were right.”

Jason just stares back, his face unamused. “I usually am. About what though?”

”Kon. And me. Dating.”

Jason rolls his eyes. “Oh well I knew that. I knew you were lying-“

”No no- we really weren’t, not back then. But um, we are now.”

Jason blinks up at him, his expression annoyed. “Ok. So?”

”So thank you. You kinda made it happen, I think. Cuz what you said made me think, and me thinking led to- anyway. Yeah.”

Jason shakes his head, going back to his book. “I literally can’t imagine how I helped, but sure. Whatever kid.”

Tim nods, “Right well. Happy New Year Jason.” He turns then, a smile still on his lips as he heads to the library door, deciding to go and see if Kon has woken up yet.

Jason’s voice stops him just as he’s almost out the door. ”Hey Tim?”

He turns. ”Yeah?”

“I’m glad you’re happy.

Tim smiles again, to which Jason just rolls his eyes. “Yeah. Me too.”

And with that he heads out the door, determined to go and wake his now boyfriend.

They have a lot of catching up to do.