Summary:
Longfic.
Alternative BTAS origin for Batgirl. Think of it like Mask of the Phantasm with Barbara Gordon.
Notes:
Years ago there was a longfic called Batgirl Arrives that I stumbled upon on a different site. I've wanted to write something that was 80% Batman The Animated Series movie and 20% smut.
Chapter 1: Chapter I
Summer Gleason, dressed in a sharp business suit, stood on the rooftop of the skyscraper. The offices of WGOB were nearby. But this meeting was private. Overlooking the bustling city below, she gazed out at the sprawling nighttime metropolis until she heard a faint rustling behind her.
Turning around, she saw Batman, standing stoically at the edge of the roof. She was taken aback by the sight of the Dark Knight. Dressed in his iconic gray suit and dark cape.
“You’re here early,” Summer asked, her voice betraying a hint of surprise.
“I could say the same about you,” Batman replied, his gravelly voice echoing through the night air. “But you’re here for business. I’m not.”
Summer nodded, casually impressed by the Caped Crusader’s perceptiveness. “I’ve been following you for over a year. I’m impressed, but your methods tend to be … unorthodox, despite being effective.”
“I could say the same thing about your father’s news empire,” Batman replied.
“Is that supposed to be a compliment?” Summer asked.
She chuckled. “I’ll take it. But I’m not here for flattery. I’m here to propose a pact.”
Batman’s expression remained stoic. “I don’t do business deals.”
Summer smirked. “You don’t take money. But I have something you want, and you have something I want. It’s a trade. No selling out.”
Batman folded his arms. “And what, exactly , do you have that I want?”
She pulled out a small device from her pocket. He refused to touch it. Harold Gleason had ties to half the military and their contractors.
“You can try to take out Rupert Thorne’s empire with late night stakeouts and punches to the face. I want to expose him for something that will ruin his reputation with the mob forever.” Summer said.
“Your father has protected Thorne for years. He’s dined with him multiple times.” Batman said.
“Let’s just say they had a bad dinner.” Summer said. “Friendship is over. Dad’s moving on.” Batman eyed the reporter skeptically. “Why ask for my assistance? I’m sure your dad has dirt on Thorne dating back to his teenage years.”
Summer leaned in closer , her eyes gleaming with ambition. “Because I want access to your network. I want to know everything you know about the criminal underworld, and I want to report it before the corrupt cops in Gotham erase the evidence for everyone. The court of public opinion can be used to stop crime far better than a stylish Batsuit.” Summer said.
Batman frowned. “These mobsters have attorneys. They have politicians. They could shut down your idea any time they want. “
“You’re not just anyone. You’re Batman. And I’m Summer Gleason. Together, we could ruin their reputation. Cause people to stop being afraid of their organization.” Summer said.
Batman stared at her for a long moment, considering her proposal. “And if I don’t, you’ll keep running stories about the Batman being a menace to Gotham that the Police have to stop?”
Summer smiled, knowing she had planted the seed of doubt into Batman’s mind. “I’ll keep running those stories to keep our lights on. But remember, time is money. You bring me Thorne, Stormwell, the Joker’s leftovers. You might not be our top story anymore.”
With that, Summer turned around and strode off confidently. Batman remained on the rooftop, pondering her words in the shadows.
THREE DAYS LATER
Summer Gleason sat across from Bruce Wayne at a lavish restaurant in the heart of Gotham. The table was adorned with elegant silverware, crystal glasses, and a variety of well-to-do onlookers from across the room. Being seen with the “who’s who” of Gotham wasn’t new to her. But as the gourmet food filled the air, Summer couldn’t help but feel a little nervous.
The invitation was last minute, and she figured that Bruce had some sort of business on his mind. Although, it wouldn’t shock her if he had watched the video of her doing hot yoga and asked his Butler to arrange a date afterwards.
Bruce, on the other hand, seemed completely at ease. He sipped wine and chatted with the waiter, who was trying to sell him on an idea for a drone window washer. He was causal as a bartender, as if he did this every day. He did have confidence.
“So, Summer,” Bruce asked, breaking the silence. “How’s the News Empire doing?”
Summer took a deep breath, glad to have a topic to focus on. "We're doing well, thanks for asking. We've had some setbacks, but we're always looking for new opportunities."
Bruce nodded thoughtfully. "Rumor has it you’re taking a step back from the news anchor position and are making a move to the business side."
Summer felt a thrill of excitement, these discussions were behind closed doors.
"Thank you, Bruce. I appreciate that. But I'm curious... why did you invite me here tonight? Is there something specific you wanted to discuss?"
Bruce leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with intensity. "Actually, there is. I've been following your company's progress for a while now, and I think there's a way we could work together."
Summer's heart raced at the prospect of a partnership with Wayne Enterprises. She knew that it could take her company to the next level, and she was eager to hear more.
"Go on," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.
“I want my hand in a Network. Showcase innovation coming from Gotham. Types of series where innovators pitch projects to business types of Gotham. Mixed in with some financials. I think your network could work, but there’s some concerns if I bring it up to the board.” Bruce said.
Summer felt a mix of exhilaration and uncertainty.
“Advertisers want drama. You’d practically have to underwrite every commercial we’d air.” Summer said.
“And I’m afraid that there’s concerns with drama behind the scenes at Gleason Media. Rumors of the local mob giving your father a private loan during the strike two years ago.” Bruce said.
“We’re cash flow positive, Bruce. Our books should show you that any loan that my father has taken could easily be paid off.” Summer said.
“If I’m an investor. I want you and your father to answer to me. Any connection I have to dirty business won’t happen.” Bruce said.
“Look. I don’t share leads. But I can tell you that if you’re worried about Thorne, we’re preparing a piece that will expose him in the next few weeks. Maybe you watch the news in your mansion and call me after it’s out. Then I’ll contemplate letting you in.” Summer said.
“If that’s the case. Then I’m interested in talking to you even more.” Bruce said.
Summer and Bruce quietly finished their meal.
“Bruce. I’ve been curious. And I ask this off the record. What happened to that orphan boy living at Wayne Manor? The one you took in after his parents died?”
Bruce’s face grew solumn, he put down his silverware. “Long story, Summer. Not sure if anyone will get that exclusive.”
“I’m just curious, if it’s something that happened between you two or…” Summer said.
“He grew up. Wanted to see the world with his own eyes. Sometimes you need to leave Gotham to find yourself.”
“Well I went to Oxford and got engaged to a Sultan’s son. You went to Tibet and half of Gotham thought you died.”
“Your father put out that story. That’s why they thought that.” Bruce smiled.
As they left the restaurant and stepped out into the cool night air, Summer watched Bruce get into one limo and her another. Not thinking about her next story, the redhead reporter couldn't help but think about the complicated relationship between Bruce and Dick. And wondered why she couldn’t open up about the relationship with her father.
Chapter 2: Chapter II
“Your dinner with Ms. Gleason went well, I presume?” Alfred asked. “I don’t know, Alfred. She claims to want to take down Thorne and the other Gotham Crime Families.” Bruce said. “Care to give your perspective? I know you’ve been waiting.” Alfred pursed his lips, and adjusted himself. “For decades Gotham media has never crossed the crime syndicate. Even when they weren’t financially controlled by it, they were always afraid of it. But to have them on your side for once. It’s undeniable how powerful it would be if the people saw the media finally fighting it, especially considering the risks.” “Maybe that’s what we need. To just focus on the bottom line.” Bruce said. “You still feel like this is a set up?” Alfred said. Bruce nodded. Alfred sighed, leaning up. “If the rumors are true that Stone Gleason is connected to the mafia, and they have a hand in his dealing, it could hinder more than just Batman. You’ve always worked alone, because working with the wrong person could ruin the reputation you have. There are repercussions for the day you make a mistake that erase all of the successes you’ve had.” “If the rumors were unfounded, the payoff of Gleason Media causing the people of Gotham to no longer fear them, would be worth more than 10 years of being Batman.” Alfred nodded, thoughtfully. Bruce looked out the window. Still unsure of how he would navigate through this situation. “Do you trust her?” Alfred asked. “No. But I wouldn’t have trusted her regardless of this meeting.” Bruce said.
As she took the elevator up to her apartment, Summer Gleason thought of her family’s sprawling estate outside of Gotham. It was next to the place where Bruce would be arriving, Wayne Manor. She imagined all of the tranquility that enveloped her. The scent of fresh air and the absence of honking horns and bustling crowds were a stark contrast to the clamor of the city. However, as much as she cherished the seclusion, she knew that living outside of the city permanently, like Bruce Wayne, would be detrimental to her career. Considered to be one of the most luxurious apartments in Gotham City, Summer’s home was a stunning blend of contemporary and classic design elements, featuring muted shades of gray, beige, and cream. In a quartz covered kitchen she found her boyfriend of 3 years, Carter Hill, fishing through takeout he had ordered for them. The new Thai Food place he had heard about. “You ate with Bruce Wayne, so I didn’t really get you anything.” Carter said. Five years older than her, Carter was ambitious, intelligent, and sometimes awkward. The third son of Mayor Hamilton Hill, he strived to prove himself by working for the best - instead of setting out to lead his own journey. Carter was polite and handsome, but no match for Summer. But he was loyal, and consistent, something the Gleason family lacked entirely. “Bruce wants to buy into Gleason Media. STEM program advocacy marketing to distract the public from how much they manufacture overseas.” Summer said. “Take the money. The ratings have dipped. Wayne's fortune could stop the bleeding.” Carter said. “It’s not about the ratings. It’s about the power and responsibility that comes with it. And the station is fine.” Summer said. "Did you bring it up with your dad?" Carter asked. Summer shook her head and shrugged. “Well have some wine to forget about it, Summer.” Carter asked. He poured her a glass. She chased it with a pill that would send her to sleep in less than an hour. “So while you were out of town last week. I saw Batman. Spoke to him and everything.” Summer said. “I still can’t believe he’s a real person.” “I know, right? Was he really dressed up like a Bat?” Carter asked. "Cheesy Broadway costume or like weird paramilitary stuff." “Something in the middle. Do you think these people feel safer knowing that there’s some sort of psycho out there, protecting our city?” Summer asked. “Safer? He’s not accountable to anyone. For all we know he’s taking out everyone but Falcone’s main people. Just a weird hitman like that Deadaim guy they put into Gotham Penitentiary. Who knows what damage he does behind the scenes. Gordon doesn’t care.” “Come on Carter, he’s taken down some of the most dangerous criminals this city has ever seen. He saved your dad once, right?” Summer said. “Success rate doesn’t justify anything. It’s a dangerous mentality. What happens when a citizen takes justice into their own hands and gets it wrong? Do we let them hide under anonymity?” Carter leaned back into the couch. Ready to watch television. “Yeah. You’re probably right. Someday that man is going to get himself killed.” Summer said. "And your Dad will milk profit off of that day for years. I can see the 15 part documentary where they get the Joker to cry about it." Carter said. He spotted his girlfriend pausing on a photo of Batman. “Summer. I have to ask. Is there something that attracts you to Batman?” Carter asked. Summer put her wine down. “What are you talking about?” “I don’t know. You seem to have a little bit of a fascination with him. Maybe it’s the suit? Or the bad boy. I can see the appeal.” Carter said. “Do you want to talk about his ethics or this little three way fuck fantasy that you’re trying to get me up to?” Summer said. “I don’t know. I’m too distracted by my girlfriend obsessing over him to come up with an answer.” Carter said. Summer rolled her eyes in frustration. She headed to the bedroom in an uninviting way. Carter knew he took it a little too far. But wasn’t going to apologize.
LATER
Stone Gleason was working late inside the Gleason Media headquarters. Watching 7 channels of news, reviewing documents and contracts, when an eerie feeling crept over him. The room was dimly lit, the shadows from the city outside casting long, dark patterns on the walls. As the 65 year old glanced up from his work, he caught a glimpse of a figure outside his window. It was unmistakable - the silhouette of Batman, standing atop a nearby building, seemingly watching Stone's office.
Stone's heart raced, and his hands trembled slightly, a rare loss of composure for a man who had built his empire on confidence and control. Despite his fear, his narcissism couldn't help but be triggered by the idea that the legendary Dark Knight was taking an interest in him. He stared at the figure, trying to discern Batman's intentions or any hint of a threat.
For a moment, Stone considered calling security or at least a camera crew, but he knew that by the time they arrived, Batman would likely have vanished. Instead, he decided to gather his family and closest allies to confront this unforeseen challenge. His instincts told him that there was more to this situation than met the eye, and he would not let his empire be threatened by anyone, not even Batman.
As Stone continued to watch Batman, a mixture of fear, anger, and determination washed over him. He knew that he had to act, and quickly. With a deep breath, he reached for the phone and dialed Summer's number, his resolve growing stronger by the second.
“Summer. Put clothes on. Need you in the office.” Stone said on the other end of the phone. “Dad. What is it?” Summer asked. “Are you getting a car? Or are you going to talk me out of ordering you out of bed at this time at night?” Stone asked. Summer threw on her jogging clothes. Not worrying about makeup, she looked at Carter. She knew he could soften the blows from whatever her father was going to bring her.
Sitting in his office, they handed Stone his medicine and a glass of water. The old man was direct, but somehow vulnerable in a rare moment. “I saw him. Outside my fucking window.” Stone said. “Who?” Carter said. “You know who.” Stone said. “Do I have to use the name every idiot in Gotham uses to describe him?” "Dad, do you really think Batman would go after you? I mean, you're not exactly one of Gotham's criminals," she said. Stone's eyes narrowed, his ego bruised by the implication that Batman might have bigger fish to fry. "Summer, you underestimate the extent of Batman's obsession with control. He can't stand the thought of someone like me, wielding power without his approval -he’s no different than the freaks that protest outside our lobby," he retorted. Carter, trying to be supportive, chimed in, "Well, Mr. Gleason, you certainly have made some powerful enemies in the past. I wouldn't put it past Batman to keep an eye on you. My dad thinks he's got eyes on half the Mayor's Office after what happened to Harvey. " Stone grunted in agreement, and the three of them continued their search. As they scrutinized every corner of the office, they debated whether Batman would genuinely stoop to such measures. "You know, there's a chance we're just feeding into the myth of Batman. Maybe he's not as all-knowing as everyone thinks," Summer suggested, her skepticism apparent. “Ignore him and he won’t have that power.”
Irritated, Stone responded, "Myth or not, we can't afford to take any chances. Gleason Media’s future depends on our ability to stay one step ahead." Nervously, Carter added, "Right, Mr. Gleason. I mean, you've built this empire. You know best how to protect it."
Hours passed as Stone Gleason’s private security firm meticulously combed the office, but they found no trace of any bugs or surveillance equipment. As the evening came to a close, Stone's initial panic began to subside, replaced by a renewed sense of confidence. "Well, it seems that Batman either underestimated me or is too afraid to face me head-on. Or he’s just a psychopath that we put a little too high on the things to fear food chain." he declared smugly. Summer rolled her eyes and retorted, "Or maybe you just overreacted, Dad. Batman has bigger problems to worry about."
Carter and Summer exchanged knowing glances as Stone basked in his perceived victory. Despite the lack of evidence, the mere idea of Batman potentially targeting him had fueled Stone's narcissism.
On the way home, Carter looked at Summer in silence. Half awake she knew he wanted to say something critical.
“What?” Summer said. “You’re creeping me out with that look.” “You said you saw Batman the other day. You said you even talked to him.” Carter said. “And?” Summer said. “You tell your dad everything. At least when it comes to the segments you're working on. He doesn’t know that you met with him. Why?” Carter said. Summer sat up in the limo. She knew Carter would ask more questions. She knew she had to be quick if she was going to lie to him. Feeling torn she looked at him and said “I have an idea for a story. It would be gigantic. But I need time before dad shoots it down.” “So you know the story. And Batman knows the story. But everyone else is out of the loop?” Carter asked. “Everyone in my life is some sort of advisor. If I ask for help now, I’ll quit. And then hate myself. So I’m doing this on my own.” Summer said. listened intently, his brow furrowing with concern, as Summer revealed only a partial truth about her father's project. Although Carter appreciated Summer’s attempt at honesty, he couldn't help but feel that she was holding something back. The realization stung, and a wave of disappointment washed over him. He tried to hide his hurt, nodding amicably. “Sometimes you just have to say ‘I just need your support on this one’ and we won’t raid you with the advice.” Carter said. "I just..." "What?" Summer said. "I just thought you said this year was going to be the year you stepped away from doing pieces for the Network. Focus on taking over the business side before my dad's re-election." Carter said. "Maybe I just need one last story. Get it out of me before I move on." Summer said. However, deep down, Carter looked out the window wondering what his place would ever be in Summer Gleason’s life.
Hours later, Summer snuck into the bathroom. Despite her father’s freakout, she had no problem using the encrypted SMS she used to get Batman’s attention. A dirty GCPD detective sold it out to the press. She was the highest bidder. “You scared my dad tonight. Or were you looking for me?” Summer asked. She waited. And then figured he wouldn’t reply. “No one scares your father. But I'm curious as to why you thought I did?” the text came back. “Standing outside of his office. Midnight. Are we playing games? Because we can’t be partners if we play games.” Summer said. “No games. Do your homework. At the docks all night. Took Killer Croc to Arkham. Shift ended at 3 AM. News 7 covered it all. Ask for tape.” Batman’s text came back. “You’re a shitty liar,” Summer replied.
THE NEXT DAY
Summer sat in the security room of Gleason Media headquarters, eyes glued to the monitor before her. Her father had mentioned his encounter with Batman, and now she was determined to see the evidence for herself. The dimly lit room was filled with the hum of electronic equipment and the gentle tapping of her fingers on the keyboard as she scrolled through the archived footage. Finally, she found the clip from the night her father had claimed to see Batman. The timestamp on the video confirmed it was the right moment. Summer’s heart raced as she watched the scene unfold, her eyes widening in disbelief. There he was - the Batman - perched on a ledge outside her father's office window. His cape billowed in the wind as he stared intently into the room, his gaze fixed on the old man - who looked genuinely frightened and shocked for the first time in his life. The Dark Knight's presence was unmistakable, his silhouette dominating the frame. Summer’s pulse quickened as she watched the footage, a mix of fear and curiosity coursing through her veins. She couldn't help but wonder what Batman's intentions were but slowly she noticed something strange. As the cape flapped into the wind she saw The Dark Knight’s body. It looked smaller. Thinner. Was this a different suit? Did Batman have a separate muscle suit to make him appear to be more intimidating? She did her best to zoom in. The face was different. Younger. Much younger. Was this a prank? She contemplated telling her father. But then she realized that she could ask the man himself.