[Ah, the threats. He'd gotten so used to them before-- even the threats of violence, damn if he didn't miss them. Damn if he didn't miss them coming from this arrogant, cocky little brat, like a buzz in his ear he'd gotten too used to that left too big of a silence when it was gone.

Having him here in his arms was definitely worth the bruises, even if his tone is now cautious and grave.]

I didn't have a choice. If I'd stayed it would've put everyone else in danger.

[His identity had already been blown on national television. If everyone had known that Nightwing was still alive, even more secrets would've been busted-- and even more of them would've been in danger.

And it ultimately means that he can't stay now, and it's that thought that makes his breath hitch, squeezes his hold tighter for a moment.]

I'm sorry-- I wasn't there. But you are my family, and I'm-- I'm so sorry.