Catching a Thief

"I see a city gradually improving," Jack remarked with a smile. "Care for a group photo?"

"A group photo?" Bruce's brow furrowed in confusion.

"Yes, I've already arranged for Alfred and Sloan to take pictures yesterday... Just missing you," Jack confirmed. "It's just you."

"Why the sudden interest in photography?" Bruce inquired, puzzled.

"I'm leaving," Jack revealed. "It might be a while before I return."

"Is your mission accomplished then?" Bruce asked instinctively.

"You don't seriously believe I work for the IRS, do you?" Jack's expression betrayed his amusement.

"No, I never did," Bruce replied, his tone darkening. "I knew you were lying from the start."

But he refrained from probing into Jack's affiliations.

Bruce's approach was pragmatic: if Jack wanted to share, he would. If not, Bruce wouldn't press. After all, Jack's actions consistently served the betterment of both himself and Gotham.

"Really? I had the impression you bought into it," Jack teased.

"You're thinking much," Bruce dismissed with a chuckle.

"Alright then, let's take that photo!" Jack exclaimed, pulling out a special camera.

"Do you want me to remove the mask?" Bruce asked.

"No need. This photo is for Batman, not Bruce Wayne," Jack clarified.

Bruce couldn't help but wonder, "Why does it always feel like you're barely tolerating me?"

They proceeded to take several photos together, Bruce still in his Batman guise, striking poses that conveyed a sense of camaraderie and closeness between them.

These photos served as both mementos and potential references for the future. Perhaps they would prove useful when encountering a new Batman from another world?

After all was said and done, Jack still snapped several photos with Bruce after he removed his mask.

"Alright, until we meet again, if fate allows," Jack waved casually.

"Where are you off to? Should I arrange a private jet for you?" Bruce offered.

"That sounds like a splendid idea," Jack mused for a moment before nodding. "I've got the itch to travel the globe for a bit."

"Traveling the world?" Bruce inquired, intrigued. "With whom?"

"If I had to say... it'd probably be with a certain mischievous cat," Jack hinted.

"Huh?"

...

Over a month later...

"How do you always manage it?" Selena, reluctantly dressed in a bikini, shot Jack a skeptical glance as he lounged beside her, soaking in the sun. "How do you keep catching me every time?"

"You're a thief, and I'm a cop. It's only natural for me to catch you," Jack replied with a grin.

"Forget it if you won't tell me!" Selena huffed, grabbing the sunscreen oil nearby and applying it to Jack with such force it seemed more like punishment than care, though the oil she used was likely more of a poison.

Judging by Jack's relaxed expression, her efforts were in vain.

For over a month, Jack and Selena had engaged in an amusing game.

The game's title: "Global Pursuit"

Selena's role was to flee, while Jack's task was to apprehend her. Each time Selena was caught, she had to honor the promise she made with Jack back in Gotham City—to accompany him on a three-day trip.

And so...

Selena attempted to escape ten times, and Jack caught her ten times.

Initially, Jack hadn't intended to pursue her repeatedly. After all, coercion rarely leads to genuine enjoyment. However, he soon realized that Selena seemed oddly content with their game...

Upon reflection, it made perfect sense—a dashing, affluent man with years of experience and formidable bedroom skills not to mention complimentary food and accommodations—it was hardly a bad deal!

Upon discovering Selena's affinity for the game, Jack eagerly joined in the fun.

Of course, Selena never openly admitted to enjoying it, and Jack, respecting her privacy, kept her secret safe.

But now, after a period of relaxation, it was time to hit the road once more.

As another day dawned, Selena stirred from her slumber, already plotting her next escapade.

Jack, who typically feigned unconsciousness due to medication, surprised Selina by firmly grasping her arm. "The game is up," he declared.

In Selina's astonished gaze, Jack transferred a substantial sum of money to her account. "I'm departing, and since I have no need for the money, I might as well leave it to you," he explained.

Selena's smile held a hint of disdain as she rose from her bed, her lithe figure bathed in sunlight. "I don't need your handouts," she retorted.

Jack admired her resolve. "I know you're in it for the thrill of the chase, not the money," he stated. "I'm not blind, you know."

Selena was taken aback. "You knew?" she inquired.

"I'm not oblivious," Jack replied with a grin. "I've seen enough to discern."

"I sometimes find you intimidating," Selena admitted, drawing nearer. "I feel like I have no secrets around you."

Jack chuckled. "Can't you guess my true intention?"

"Perhaps I can," Selena replied, her gaze unwavering. "But after savoring the luxuries you've provided, anything else seems dull."

Jack grinned. "You're as captivating as ever."

....

Upon reopening his eyes, Jack found himself back in the system space. "I suppose we're still unable to resolve this," he lamented.

In the past, Jack had never been one for committed relationships. Yet with Selena, he was willing to make an exception. Over the past month, he had grown fond of her, and the thought of her with another man pained him.

As the new year commenced, Jack felt a renewed sense of hope. He wished for prosperity and happiness for himself and all those around him.

....

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