#Cobblebot

[paint-it-periwinkle]

i desire her carnally

gif made here: https://makesweet.com/my/heart-locket#

[ofmdrecaps]

07/27-28/2024 Daily OFMD Recap

TLDR; David Jenkins; Taika Waititi; Galaxy Con Raleigh: Kristian, Con, Vico, and Nathan; Bronson Pinchot; Minnie Driver; Kay Buchanan; Adopt Our Crew: Articles; Voting Reminders; Fan Spotlight; Love Notes; Daily Darby/Today's Taika

== David Jenkins ==

David posed an interesting question to the gallery. (I know many weeks back someone was mentioning a similar thing being related to Non-Binary Folks, not sure if that was Chaos Dad's intent or not, but you can answer on Instagram if you'd like!)

Source: David Jenkins Instagram

Dad also reblogged the absolutely INSANELY talented @blueberreads' fabulous latest pixel video!

Source: David Jenkins Twitter / Blueberreads Tumblr == Taika Waititi ==

More Taika at the Louis Vuittan Pre-Olympics event.

Source: styledumonde Instagram

PS: I didn't wanna post her post here but sending healing thoughts to Rita Ora (Taika's wife), apparently she was hospitalized in the last couple days. Hope you feel better soon Rita! Rest up hon!

== Galaxy Con Raleigh Updates ==

So many pictures came out of GalaxyCon Raleigh! I was only able to get permission from a few folks-- but if you were there and you'd like me to share them on the recap please feel free to reach out! I'd love to!

Poor Kristian was jet lagged pretty bad.

Source: Kristian's IG Stories

So much Nathan!

Source: Nathan Foad's Instagram Stories

= GalaxyCon Raleigh Panel ==

Tell Tale TV was at the panel and will be bringing some more news in the upcoming days!

Source: Tell Tale TV Twitter

The fabulous @/cecillusive on Twitter was kind enough to let me share their transcriptions of the panel! If you have access to twitter, you can see the Full thread here. First up, apparently audio captioning was displaying what was being said backstage!

Source: Cecillusive Twitter

== Bronson Pinchot ==

Bronson is back with more Ned Low showing up in his Serge clips!

== Minnie Driver ==

Fun news! Minnie will be voicing the new Oswalda Cobblebot (The Penguin) in the animated movie: Batman: Caped Crusade, which arrives August 1!

She was also out at San Diego Comic Con this past week promoting it!

Source: Minnie Driver's Instagram

== Kay Buchanen ==

Our extremely talented leatherworker, Kay Buchanan has been posting some stunning work she's been doing-- including what's available for sale! Are you in the market for some satchels, body harnesses, leather armor, or tassel bags? Well she's got you covered! Visit her Instagram for more info!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kay Buchanan (@kay_buchanan_)

Source: Kay Buchanan's Instagram

== Adopt Our Crew: Articles ==

Adopt our crew spotlighted some quotes from the latest screenrant article that mentioned OFMD and there's some very interesting honk-inducing information in there. Thank you @adoptourcrew for keeping the honk going!

Source: Adopt Our Crew's Twitter

== Voting Reminders ==

Only a couple more days to vote for Rhys and OFMD in the Gold Derby Awards! Reminder, you do need to sign up with an email/account to vote! Vote here! Thank you @adoptourcrew for keeping us reminded!

Source: Adopt Our Crew Twitter

We're a down by part of a % on the Tell Tale TV Poll! It closes at the end of July! If you are up for voting-- you can do so every day! Most Heartbreaking Cancellation of 2024 So Far Poll

== Fan Spotlight ==

= Cast Cards =

More cast cards from the wonderful @melvisik! Ken S. is an action extra in OFMD and Alison Telford is another one of the Casting Directors!

Source: @melvisik's Instagram

= OFMD Colouring Pages =

Our darling @patchworkpiratebear is keeping us fed with more and more ofmd colouring pages! Many of these also have multiple versions now so please check out @patchworkpiratebear's tumblr for more options!

Source: PatchworkPirateBear's Tumblr

== Love Notes ==

Hey lovelies, I'm still on crazy hours for work and will be probably through the end of July. I am always thinking of you though, I hope every one of you is well and having a good or at least not too heavy start to the week <3

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Katie Abey 🌈 (@katieabey)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Katie Abey 🌈 (@katieabey)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Katie Abey 🌈 (@katieabey)

== Daily Darby / Today's Taika ==

Tonight's gifs are courtesy of the lovely, the fantastic, the beautiful, the awesome @ofmd-ann and @starfleetavenger-blog!

[celticcatgirl2]

“…I am NOT attending an Eyes Wide Shut party at fucking At the fucking COBBLEBOT Manor…”

[ohpossuhm]

sometimes i go to reblog something for mr danger cobblebot but its on my feed because his partner reblogged it and tagged it for him

[shugister]

[frasiercranesbigbottom]

was watching gotham but the audio lagged and THE HAND OF GOD CAME TO COLLECT HIM

[mysticmlynn3]

Instrument HCs || Gotham Rogues

Idk, just one day I thought "hm, you know what? *gives the rogues some music talent*"

Jonathan Crane | Scarecrow

Guitar

No doubt he would've listened to some Johnny Cash and other country singers over the radio, so as a teenager he collected enough money to get his own guitar, and he still has that guitar.

He doesn't play it often, as he's more concentrated on his work with fear toxins than anything else, but when he decides to take it out and play a song, he's in his own world, in rare peace.

Edward Nygma | The Riddler

Violin & Electric Guitar

His mother forced him to play all sorts of fancy instruments as a kid, including a violin. He doesn't take much amusement in playing it, thanks to his mother, but sometimes he whips it out to play a little tune.

But with the electric guitar? He only plays that when he's in his basement aka mechanic mode, so ya better plug in your ears because he's gonna go ham on that thing and he's not holding back! Poor Echo and Query.

Jervis Tetch | Mad Hatter

Violin & Flute

Unlike Edward, Jervis loves playing violins, it's practically his favorite instrument! He plays it regularly too, knows a couple songs to play when he's in the mood.

He's a big fairy-tale geek, so he's heard of the tale of Pied Piper and how the music of his flute lures children away from their homes. Jervis hopes he can combine his mind-controlling devices and his flute to do something like that, only not involving children and more of the citizens of Gotham.

Harleen Quinzel | Harley Quinn

Xylophone 

It's not a violin or a guitar, but it's easy for Harley. Plus ya gotta admit xylophones have nice tunes too.

Pamela Isley | Poison Ivy

Harp

It's such a relaxing instrument, it fits Ivy's aesthetic, plus her plant children love it too, they 'sing' along with the harp.

Selina Kyle | Catwoman

I can't imagine her playing an instrument, but maybe a tambourine suits her.

Jack Napier | The Joker

Harmonica & Calliope

You know, he isn't too bad on the harmonica, he actually plays very well on it. When you're in Arkham Asylum yet again, you gotta have some tunes while you're in isolation.

A calliope is like a piano but it uses steam to play, it's what circuses use for their music, and y'know, Joker? Circus? Oh well, I tried!

Harvey Dent | Two Face

Cello & Piano

He doesn't play them often, but like Jonathan: When he does he's in his own little world, ignoring the current reality of the world he's living in, memories of his wife and daughter are thrown in as well.

Oswald Cobblepot | Penguin

Piano

It's something he learned to play as a child, used to play it to his mother, the only one that cared for him. Sometimes he stands up from his seat to play a song for everyone in the Iceberg Lounge, with Harvey's singing thrown in the mix.

Eduardo Dorrance | Bane

Drums

At least with drums, strong drums, Bane can go absolute ham on them. Bane and his drums with Edward and his electric guitar? Ohhh boy.

Waylon Jones | Killer Croc

Banjo & Trumpet

He's from New Orleans, you can't tell me he hasn't learned how to play a banjo and trumpet in his spare time. Probably found some while scavenging in the sewers and self-taught himself.

Victor Fries | Mr. Freeze

Piano

I can imagine Victor played some love songs on the piano for Nora before she fell ill, and he still does. Even if Nora can't hear her favorite songs on the piano, Victor continues to still play for his frozen bride.

[vergeofinsanity]

hes kinda-

[curious-menace]

Rogues bedroom headcanons

yea so i spent all day tidying my pit of a bedroom ( and it still isnt that tidy tbh) so it made me wonder what kind of rooms the rogues have. how would they decorate? big bed or little bed? pillow fort or utilitarian space? i think scarecrow would like my halloween themed room but all the plushies are definitely more harley lol.

Had images but Tumblr ate them. Please use your imagination

Penguin

For the most part penguin sleeps in his office. He normally just sleeps on the couch with the ac turned way up. its easier for him since he’s always working. hes got some decor on the walls like trophies, stuffed animals etc. When he lived at Cobblepot manor his room was pretty extravagant. his parents gave him whatever he wanted to keep him out of their hair . As an adult his room at home is no less luxurious. there are paintings and statues he also has a  four poster king sized bed, but its rarely slept in. Penguins room is cold, not just in temperature. there are little to no personal items. no photos of his family, no childhood toys, no books or ornaments. Its a beautiful room but it feels more like a hotel than somewhere someone might actually live. Nicely decorated but lacking a personal touch.

Twoface

I mentioned in another post that his bed is one of the only areas of his life that doesn't get the clean side / dirty side treatment. harvey and twoface are in agreement that they need somewhere decent to sleep. they still like to have the room half and half so they have their bed in the corner so it doesnt cross the halfway line. everything on the side of the room with the bed is white or gold , neat and tidy .He doesn't go for all the clutter the others have, even on the messy side. none of it is personal except for a few things hidden in the nightstand like his da badge, a few spare coins and a picture of Gilda. he usually has a double or queen sized bed, but its not for sharing. he just likes to spread out.

Poison ivy

i canon ivy as not needing sleep, so she doesnt usually faff about with bedrooms. if she must have one its small, filled with plants and a single bed or comfy sofa so that there's more room for plants. She has a few personal items, maybe some photos or her PHD framed on the wall. its also nicely decorated with rugs, seats and cusions that shes made or bought from small artists and business owners. most of the space, ceiling included is taken up by plants mind you. I cannot emphasize how many plants this woman has in her room.

Riddler

riddler has so much stuff in his room its hard to know where to put it all. he’s got ornaments, books, nicknacks and memorabilia and even some stuff from his various heists over the years ( nothing too incriminating mind you) his walls are covered in art and newspaper clippings and posters with barely an inch uncovered. He spent most of his life renting one of gotham's many sparsely decorated apartments and swore that when he could afford a place of his own, he’d never have bare walls again. He’d probably have a king sized bed but like harvey, its not for sharing. he just wants to treat himself to the things that he was deprived of as a child, spread out as far as he can ( despite the fact he usually sleeps curled up on his side in one corner). i also imagine his room wont be huge. just enough for his stuff, somewhere nice to sit and look out over the city and a big cozy bed. he definitely has one of those fake fireplaces too.

Scarecrow

Scarecrow has all of his bedrooms torn down to bare wall and built up again to look like a log cabin. He just wants seclusion, he wants peace and quiet. even in the middle of a city, he can retreat to his “cabin” for a sanity check. the walls have a few things on them but mostly its sound absorbing foam made to look like wooden walls. Hes got a couple of family heirlooms like fancy lamps and a few hand stitched quilts but its mostly empty space, why cover the beautiful wood work?. of course the majority of the room is taken up by books but generally only his favorites are next to his bed. as much as he wants to read all night he needs to sleep at some point and having too many in arms reach is too big a temptation . he’s pretty tall but sleeping in a double bed feels weird to him so its usually a single with extra pillows and quilts for back and leg support.

Harley quinn

harleys room has too much going on. its not conducive to a good nights sleep. her hideouts have the regular red and black theme, silk sheets and pictures of the joker everywhere but when she had a home it was more quirky with eclectic stuff she found at garage and going out of business sales . looking at her room for too long will give you a headache, its so loud. and not just with all the beaded curtains and the cuckoo alarm clock. she has a queen sized bed that she sleeps in the middle of with bud and lou either side of her. if they aren't with her shes one of those people who is pushed to the edge of her bed by her many many plushies

[0theghost0]

request: I love your Penguins. Penguin doodle? Your choice what type he is.

BOOM

[ficstogo]

Opportunity (2/2)

Pairing: Oswald Cobblepot x Reader

Word Count: 2,475

Summary: You decide to throw a congratulatory party for the clubs success although you don’t realize the party’s for you.

Warnings: None

A/N: real crap ending tbh.

Part ½

You waited for Oswald to arrive at a charming little restaurant for lunch that day on a typical Gotham day, gray clouds, skeptical civilians, and a little shower earlier that morning. The temperature risen to a chilly air, so a coat was not needed but you came in a blue and gray sweater with black jeans, matching flats, and an umbrella in case it rained again.

You checked your small phone that was in your bag to see if you missed any calls, which you didn’t. You looked left then right to see if there was any sign of Oswald. Hopefully he didn’t ditch you, you wanted to pay him back for the other night and talk to him about an idea you had in mind for the club.

Oswald began to have a smile on his face when he saw you standing there. How you looked so sweet and innocent with those bright E/C jewels and the endearing smile that graces upon your face. He couldn’t help but think how lovely you are and the fact that you didn’t think so awfully of him brings joy to his heart. Funny how that’s not his mother who’s doing that. “Y/N,” Oswald called out, limping towards you with the support of his umbrella as his cane.

You turned around with that endearing smile and went to give Oswald a small hug, which surprised him. “Hello Oswald, thank you for coming. I was afraid you weren’t able to show up.”

“Miss lunch with you? I’d hate myself if I did.” You chuckled at this and went towards the door until Oswald stopped you. “Please, allow me.” he said and opened the door for you.

“Such a gentleman. More men need to be like you. Your mother must be lucky to raise you when you were younger.” you said with a smile entering the restaurant.

Oswald could feel heat developing on his cheeks. He walked in with you and responded “Well, I’m not a man that needs to lie, my mother might have had some difficulties raising me like any other parent.” Arriving at your table, Oswald pulled out your seat, surprising you, and pushed you into the table and taking his seat across from you.

“I don’t believe that at all. What difficulties would she possibly have with you?” A waitress then came over to your table with menus and glasses of water to start you off. You both said your thanks and went back to the conversation while looking through the menu.

“Any a single mother would have.” He answered.

“And your father?” you asked without thinking.

“He died of pneumonia when I was young.” he said while looking at the menu.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have asked.”

Oswald looked up at you blankly. “What? Oh, no don’t worry. I didn’t know him that well but my mother told me he was a good man.” He smiled reassuring you that you didn’t offend him in any way. “He’s basically the reason why I carry an umbrella wherever I go, as to not worry my mother.”

“How sweet of you. Well, I wanted to take you out for lunch to thank you about that night.” you said.

“A man shouldn’t hassle a woman like that. I’m glad that I arrived there when I did, I was afraid he would’ve done something unforgivable.” Oswald said.

“Thank you again…I also wanted to talk to you about an idea I had for the club.” you asked timidly looking at your clasped hands on the table.

“The club? Well what did you had in mind?” he asked, interest peaking.

“I was thinking that maybe we could turn it to an actual night club. I mean, only for one night, just to see if it’s a bust or not.”

“I thought it already is a night club.” Confusion was written all over Oswalds face. Was the club not good enough?

“It is! Just the fancier type, the ones that I imagine people in Hollywood would go to.” you smiled at the thought. Going to Oswalds club made you feel fabulous to be honest. It didn’t make you feel all low leveled and such whenever you went. “The type of club I was thinking of was with colorful lights, a DJ, a dance floor… I don’t want it to be permanent, just a little test is all. Actually, I want it to be a party on how successful the club is getting, now that I think about it.”

“Well, if you want to celebrate the success of the club then I say that it is a fantastic idea. Celebrate you! You are the entire reason why my club has reached fabulous heights, I think you deserve this little party.” Oswald smiled towards you with appreciation. There goes my cheeks, you thought.

“Oh no, I’m not the reason. The other performers, they’re the reason why the club is big.”

“Don’t be so modest Y/N, without you we wouldn’t have those performers.” He wanted to say more but Oswald didn’t want to look like a fool in front of you. “I’m forward with this idea of yours. We can begin preparation in the club a little later, after lunch.”

~.~.~.~

It became a hectic week planning out things with Oswald, ordering things, hiring people, your brain was scrambled. Oswald, on the other hand, enjoyed the time he spent with you. During times when he was alone he couldn’t help but think back at the little things between you and him. The way you smiled at him, how you would laugh in your conversations, how you would sit next to each other, or how you two would accidently brush each others hands when reaxhing for something. He hate to admit it, yet love the idea of it, but he knew he was developing a hard crush on you.

Oswald sat at one of the bar stools sighing in content at the thoughts of you and him. The club started to fill up with people that Oswald had invited and others that were standing outside paying their fee to get in. The sitting area in front of the stage were cleared of all the tables and chairs and began to fill up with bodies that had the itch to dance at one of the DJ’s tracks.

People came by to order their drinks. Honestly, Oswald never felt the club so full and alive. Yes the club was a success before this but they were always calm gatherings, the guest watching the acts in front of them, now people danced to the hyper beat of the songs that were playing.

You came to the club in a red velvet skirt above black pantyhoses, a black belt, and a see through long sleeve shirt that actually covers your chest in a sweetheart neckline, your hair down in waves clutching onto your black wallet that matched your pumps.

You could feel the energy of the club from outside as you walk towards Butch who was being the bouncer tonight. “Hi Butch.” you said with a smile on your face.

“Hey Y/N, looking lovely as ever.” he said moving away to let you in.

“You’re not looking too bad yourself.”

As you walked in, you found Oswald sitting on one of the stools within the crowded place. He held onto his drink looking at nothing in particular. You walked to his position saying your excuse me’s getting through. “Hey Oswald.” you said getting his attention.

Startled for a moment, he turned to the source and landed his eyes on you. You looked extravagant, so much that it made him blush. “Y-Y/N, hello.” he stuttered out. “You look…pretty.” You giggled at his nervousness.

“Thank you, you look good too. So…how’s the club?” obviously it was doing great but you wanted to know how he felt about it.

“Surprisingly, better than I had originally anticipated but all thanks to you.” he said lifting his glass to your being. You leaned against the bar and order yourself a drink. Apparently this was your night, so might as well unwind.

You continued to talk to Oswald, getting deep into each other’s conversation about things other than work as the bass of the music vibrated throughout the club. You were getting a bit tipsy while Oswald was holding his liquor quite well, which you didn’t expect from his stature. Being tipsy, you started to flirt with Oswald, touching his arm, batting your eyelashes at him a few times, complimenting him, it was getting Oswald a bit nervous but he wanted more. “Come with me.” Oswald said to you, grabbing your hand, leading you into the middle of the dim lighted dance floor. “Wait right here, I’ll return in a moment.” He left you confused as ever, until everyone stopped dancing and you hearing a familiar voice from the speakers.

“Ladies and gentlemen, are we having a good time?” Everyone cheered raising their glasses. “I like to thank you all for attending tonight’s celebration, although, none of it would have been possible without the care and talent of one of our fantastic acts, Y/N!” At that a spotlight was on you and everyone turned and cheered for you. You were stunned for a second but got over it and started to smile and say thank you’s. “Tonight we celebrate the club, our customers, and Y/N for making this a big success.” More cheering erupted from the crowd.

Oswald left the stage giving the cue to the DJ to continue with his duties. You stood there as Oswald came to you with a smile on his pale face. Hopefully I didn’t make her feel uncomfortable. You looked down and spoke “Thanks for that,” you looked up at him with a smile, “You didn’t need to do that though.”

“I just felt like the people needed to know why were celebrating, and how much of a gift you are to this place.” He smiled.

The music started up again and you couldn’t help but sway your hips to it. He prepared to sit back down at his spot at the bar until he was stopped by someone grabbing his wrist, turning around to see the owner shifting with the music, a smile on her face she said “Dance with me.”

“Oh, I can’t, not with this leg, I’d be a terrible dance partner.” he said looking down with a bashful smile.

“You don’t have to do much just…move your hips,” she said “And besides, it looks like your seats taken.” She pointed at the spot with a man and a woman talking to each other. No other seats were available. The booths and stools were all filled. He knew he had no other choice but he didn’t want to make himself look like an idiot in front of her.

“Well, I suppose I could dance for a bit, at least until another seats open.” You then grabbed his hands and placed them on your hips. Pink dusted across his face feeling the movement of them. Your arms draped on his shoulders, eyes closed in bliss. This close proximity, it was overwhelming, he didn’t know what to do or what not to do, he just stood there with his hands on you.

Feeling the music take control of your being, you turned around with your back against his chest. You slide your hands on his arms clasping yours with his that were still on your hips. You swayed more causing him to blush furiously eyes wide at what you two were doing. This is something a couple would do not a boss and his employee, yet he didn’t mind, he liked it, this feeling of intimacy. He leaned his head in taking in your scent of your sensuous perfume. You were like a siren calling him out to his doom in the ocean but he didn’t care, he wanted more.

He soon found himself swaying to the music with you, at least, as much as his bum leg would let him. You then turned around to face him once more arms draped like curtains on his shoulders, eyes closed still. You then opened them staring into his pool of glistening blue eyes while he stared into yours. Your eyes then drifted down to his parted lips which caused you to lick yours. Set on target, you leaned in and took his lips for a second until you tilted your head to the side. Oswald was phased at first, not knowing exactly what to do but the luscious feeling told him exactly what to do, kissing you back becoming a bit more sensual then a first kiss should be. He parted from you and whispered in your ear “Follow me.” he grabbed your hand and made your way through the sea of dancing people to the back where it was unattended.

It was dark but neither of you mind. You closed the door and pressed your back against the door reaching out for Oswald with a lustful look on your face. His hands landed on your waist and began to kiss you hungrily on the lips. Oswald then created a path from your cheeks to your neck nipping and biting then licking the spots to soothe it, arms now wrapped around your waist to bring you closer.

You were lost in the sensations until something came to you as if it were dream that then turned to realization. He’s your boss and your his employee, you two shouldn’t be doing this. “Oswald, wait.” he looked at you with red on his face and half lidded eyes.

“What? What is it? Did I hurt you?”

“No, it’s just…we shouldn’t be doing this. If anyone were to find out it would go around like a forest fire. People would think that I’m doing this for advantages here , like now and I don’t to be known as someone who slept with their boss to get what they want.”

Oswald’s hand then went up to stroke your cheek and responded “Don’t worry on such things. I promise that no one will hear of this and if they did then I would tell them that one, I am no fool to fall for such trickery and two, that whatever is going on between is genuine.” You closed your eyes and leaned into his touch smiling at the comfort he gave you.

“Alright. I trust you on this.” you said.

“Good.” Not as nervous as before he leaned in to give you a sweet passionate kiss. From then on you secretly dated Oswald, hiding your affections from others yet sneak in a few kisses or hold each others hands under the tables or rub each others leg, until you then felt ready to show each others feelings in front of others.

[paperribcage]

Not to be dramatic but if there is a scene in the new season of Gotham, where Edward and Oswald work things out and this is signified with them starring a hug for the first time since season 3... I will have to watch the rest of the season from the astral plane because my soul will literally exit my body.

[ask-theoswald-blog]

Hello, all!

Please send in some asks. I’m done with my classs for the day, thankfully.

[how-to-be-gay-with-andrew-gray]

May I present to you....

The Gotham Collection™️

Bonus:

[alpacinosgf]

MILK AND ROSES (Oz Cobblebot x fem!reader)

Also on ao3

Rated: Mature (they will absolutely bone in the next chapter i swear)

Word count: 3.7k

Never let it be said you weren’t a good friend. You were supportive, loyal to a fault and most of all; terrified to upset plans made weeks in advance by those closest around you. These were the thoughts that bounced around your mind as you took a steadying breath, and opened your eyes.

What greeted you was a multitude and did nothing to qualm the panic bubbling up to the surface. Countless bottles of the dingiest, most expensive Champagne littered the crowded circular table before you. Your flushed face greeted you, looking strained and as anxious as though you’d been given 60 seconds to live – rather than face a night of drinking and dancing with friends. You wished you were different, and sometimes you were. There were few instances in your life where you had actually enjoyed night life, but they were different nights a lifetime ago. Being recently single had brought back all the lurking anxieties, leading you to frequently need a breather like this. You focused on the stiff vinyl seating you felt underneath your legs. The loud thrum of music melting into the palpitations in your chest seamlessly.

Your entire afternoon had spent inside your own head to avoid this very scenario, already knowing deep down this would be the result. The inner saboteur that plagued your life chipped away at the confident demeanour you built as you got ready for the evening’s events. Malicious whispers of self doubt, possible embarrassment and imposter syndrome somehow overpowering the loud chirps of your friends’ birthday group chat. Each message of true excitement of somehow getting an in at the infamous Iceberg Lounge only further solidified the feeling of cement weighing down your shoulders as you chose your outfit.

The very outfit you had been so looking forward to wearing, finally getting “back out there”. You had felt yourself cringe at the phrase as soon as your friend said it. You knew she was right, but you had avoided it for so long by passing off being busy with work or other friends – that the very real prospect of being perceived as a potential fuck made you want to bury yourself back into your decrepit bed. You had spent so much of your life wanting to fast forward to the good parts, straight through exams or bouts of depression that came in stride with living in Gotham.

You despised the talking stage. The same words said over and over on loop that you swore you could predict the conversation better than any AI could. Dating apps had become a new form of casual gaming to you. None of it felt real, these people you knew would never respond back or their excuses for ghosting you. It felt like such a waste. If you could fast forward through the talking stage to exactly when you felt comfortable with someone you swear you’d be a millionaire.

“Are you feeling okay?”

Your head snaps around, meeting the concerned eyes of the birthday girl. Your heart clenches at the knowing look in her eyes. Feeling like you’ve been caught red handed.

“Yeah, just a little overwhelmed. I’ll be fine – Please, don’t worry about me. This is your 8night!”

She simply rolls her eyes, lights hitting her face perfectly as she does so. She had made such an effort tonight, you knew how much she looked forward to this but regardless she made time to check in with you.

“Well, it’s early enough, the others are going down to the dancefloor but I want to be sure you’re okay first. I know this isn’t your scene, and I want to make sure you’re good before I go anywhere”

You feel your eyes water in gratitude, she knows you too well. She scoots in beside you on the couch before one of the waitresses clears it – making note of your friend’s obligatory garish birthday sash before taking both your orders. The lights flash pathetically against the strobing floodlights of the nightclub, but draws sufficient attention from some of the patrons by the bar. The same waitress arrives swiftly with your drinks, gives a sweet smile and leaves without further ado.

“Seeing as you won’t be up dancing with us tonight, do me a favour and get a hot guy’s number”

You break into a wide grin at that, and nod solemnly in agreement as you take the heavy glass in hand. A talk as small and insignificant as this is enough to settle you and remind you why you agreed to go out in the first place. The conversation flows easier this way, nothing strained or forced about it and the memory of your panic is completely forgotten by last dregs of your respective drinks.

Some of the others from your group have arrived back upstairs to find you both seated and giggling at old stories. You excuse yourself from the table, deciding it easier to order from the bar directly and not disturb the already over worked waitresses. You glance at your phone as you wait, having finally managed to squeeze into a space by the countertop. There’s a few messages from work, nothing vital just the same empty updates as always. You remember why you looked at your phone in the first place, seeing the time as just before 11pm. The endless stream of various conversations around you while you wait becomes hushed and broken when you finally catch the eye of a barman. You think little of it except for when you feel yourself shoved aside by movement.

The huddled businessmen that had enveloped you at the slick bar dissipated, and you noticed the waitresses waiting for drinks and drops for their customers perked up suddenly. Bright smiles painted on and posture corrected. You look down your nose at the man who roughly pushed past you. You take a deep sigh and begin your order of drinks, counting them on your hands as not to forget anyone before you notice the barman has paled and picked up a soaked rag to clean the drinks stand thoroughly behind him. You shout for his attention, watching the tight shirt that hugs his back go rigid. You glance to the mirrored glass in front of him, puzzled as you try to catch his eye again.

“Can I get you a drink, sweetheart?” a bemused and rough voice enquires beside your ear. The hairs on your neck immediately shoot up at the closeness, and you jerk away from the surprise presence.

Your face whips to the left, and you look up and down at the perpetrator. A heavy set guy leans against the bar, a plush velvet blazer tailored to perfection changes colour under the shifting lights. He’s slightly taller than you, but the heeled boots he wears don’t go unnoticed. You give an incredulous laugh, and see a flash of gold as he returns the best shit eating grin you’ve ever seen. He must have three or four gold plated teeth in his head. Who the fuck is this guy?

“That would be great, thanks! I was halfway through my order when this guy fucked off” You throw your thumb accusatorily at the barman trying his best to look busy.

The older man just nods, and tells you good help is hard to get. He raps his knuckle against the black marble twice, a sharp rattle heard as you watch the heavy ring glint under the warm light. Both barmen nearly collide as they turn to face you, you just look to your new companion and roll your eyes. You notice there’s no exchange of cash or even a card. Guy’s obviously a heavy hitter, with the clientele this place is supposed to have its definitely for the wrong reasons. You give your order once again, and watch the second barman silently pass over drinks for your friends and two more for yourself at the bar. You’ve never been one to look a gift horse in the mouth, and raise your drink in cheers with the generous stranger.

His whiskey tumbler clinks against your own as you see your friends out of the corner of your eye. They give a rapturous roar of delight as the trays are settled in front of them.

“Any chance I can get your name, doll?” the man to your left asks. It’s said casually, with no intention of throwing the fact he bought your drinks in your face. You smile and give it, never missing the way his dark eyes move over each feature of your face. You extend your hand in greeting and his larger, warmer one brings it to his face.

“Pretty name, babe. I’m Oz” He smiles wickedly, and grazes his lips along your knuckles before releasing. Did people even do that anymore? While you recover, he takes another sip out of the amber tumbler and makes no attempt at discretely checking you out. You say the usual niceties of meeting a new person, but find yourself actually meaning them this time. The moving lights above begin to shine directly overhead, and you watch them reveal several aged scars and gashes. The longest of which travelling raggedly from his top lip, past his cheek and up towards his right ear. You’re not gonna lie, they’re kind of hot.

“You checkin’ them out?” He laughs, his left-hand gesturing to his face. Shit. Time to think quick.

“Yeah, to be honest. ‘Where’d you get the beauty mark, tough guy? Eating pussy?’” You quote and he actually barks a laugh in response to that. Of course he knows that line.

“Oh, I wish, honey” He smiles, and you do too.

“You celebratin’ tonight, sweetheart?”

“Oh, yeah. It’s my friend’s birthday tonight and she’s been dying to come here. The club’s always all over social media!” You explain, gesturing to your friends in the corner who notice and raise their glasses again to Oz.

“That’s good news to me, not that I know much of the online stuff here but still, good news” He huffs in a chuckle but you just stare at him.

“What do you mean, you got shares here or something?” And do your best to catch up with your drink.

“Nah, babe. I own the place”

A beat passes. You must have misheard him, this music is rattling your brain again you think.

“You serious?”

Your voice goes up several octaves at the end. You don’t necessarily mean it in a bad way, it’s just Oz dresses like he should be in Casablanca rather than the most decadent nightclub in Gotham City. You can tell by his reaction that he’s used to it, he simply shrugs his large shoulders and gives a short laugh. An almost inaudible whistle comes through his broken nose as he does so. You take another sip, watching him toy with the glass in his hefty hands. He looks like he’s mulling something over in the corner of your eye. Finally, he takes a deep breath in, before turning to you.

“You wanna go somewhere a little quieter?” He asks quickly into your ear. Your brows shoot up in surprise. The moment he says it, he almost cringes at his own words. Ready to shake his head and bid you goodbye, he starts to push away from the bar. You shake your own head and laugh, touching the arm of his blazer. You rub the smooth fabric unconsciously and feel your face close to his own.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Oz. What’d you have in mind?” You smile coyly.

That arrogant smile comes back tenfold, gold teeth on show. He lets you take his arm for a bit as you walk from the bar back towards the entrance. You catch your friends waving wildly to catch your attention as you begin to move through the crowd, you just raise one shoulder in a quick shrug. No reason not to see where this could go, right? Not everyday you get an oddly hot, obviously rich club owner hitting on you. Just as you do so, Oz moves his arm from over yours to the small of your back. Christ, his hands are huge. He sees you watching and stops walking, he moves straight to your ear.

“Is this alright? You don’t gotta come up with me y’know?”

You just shake your head at him, and start to walk again towards the steel staircase he was directing you to. Only then do you notice his walk as he catches up to you, a slow and painful looking gait that’s mainly on one side. You try your best not to look too closely and it works, the bouncers by the stairs move out of the way at the sight of their superior. He extends his arm out in invitation for you to go first, you carefully hold onto the metal railing and make your way up the stairs. Praying your heels don’t lock into the holes of the grate beneath your feet.

When you make it to the top and turn the corner you stand in disbelief. Above the heaving dancefloor you find a decently sized office adorned in retro furniture and lighting. A plush red velvet couch against the glass panels looking onto the ground floor. A well-attended bar and vintage drinks trolley to the left of it. Half empty decanters of undoubtedly expensive whiskey glint under an art deco lampshade. Oz finally meets you in the doorway, head over your shoulder watching you inspect his office.

“You’ve got great taste, it’s not what I was expecting” you say quietly, half to yourself when you feel him lean closer.

“Only the best, sweetheart” you can feel his scarred lips draw back in an almost sickly-sweet smile before he moves around you, hands ghosting over your body. You miss the fragrance of his heady aftershave as soon as he leaves.

He travels the short distance to the drinks trolley and begins fixing you both a fresh drink while you make your way to the lavish short couch. You turn onto your side to get a better look at the view from Oz’s perch. The music of the club below continues to play, and you know your friends are swaying and writhing to the heavy techno bursting from the speakers around the warehouse sized nightclub. It feels like a million miles away from you, as Oz settles onto the couch beside you. He places your drink on the glass coffee table and spreads his left arm over the back of the couch to join your admiration of his nightclub.

“This is crazy!” you laugh and turn to him, noting the pleased look on his face and just how close he had gotten to you while you were preoccupied.

“This? This is nothin’, doll. There’s things I could tell about this place you’d never believe” He waves the hand on the back of the couch up in faux dismissal before settling it back down. The tips of his fingers barely touching against your elbow absentmindedly as he brings his drink to his lips.

“Let me guess though, you’d have to kill me?”

“No, I’m sure I can think of somethin’ better to keep you quiet” he says matter-of-factly with a lazy shrug.

You just burst into laughter at his words, not his intended reaction. However, he does catch the blush creeping along your face and neck as you cover your face. Your eyes meet again for a moment, before you decide to go for it. What’s the worst that could happen? A bad lay? As soon as your lips meet, he grins into the kiss. He brings the hand from the back of the couch up to your hair to draw you closer. You taste the whiskey off his lips and remnants of tobacco on his breath as it mixes with your own. You break for a moment and draw slightly back to look at his face. Shit eating grin plastered on as he caresses your face lightly, the cool metal of his garnet signet ring sending a shiver through your heated cheeks.

A low hum comes from his throat at the sight, and he draws you closer once more. You find yourself getting lost in the kiss as it gets more heated, the hand in your hair becoming more possessive in its grasp. Once your tongues meet you move from your spot on the couch fluidly onto his sprawled lap. You don’t miss the breathy curse that leaves him as he moves quickly to set his drink down on a golden side table, knocking over several glass ornaments in his fervour. Neither of you care to check the damage, in the back of your head you already know they’re probably priceless. Oh well.

With both of his large hands free from distraction he grips your hips down onto him, feeling him stiffen underneath you. His hands had felt nice on your lower back earlier in the night but this was heaven. Just the right amount of manhandling without being too painful, he pawed anywhere he could hold onto as you moaned into his mouth. He bucks up into you at that, and spreads his rough hands along the flesh of your ass before squeezing and grinding you against him. You push him further into the couch, pressing your heaving chest against his own. The heat is gonna kill you.

You groan against him as you feel yourself grow wet at all this. You never do shit like this. But you’re getting hot and heavy with a certified mobster Howard Hughes would be jealous of. He breaks the kiss first before moving straight to your neck where he sinks his teeth into your flesh before soothing with his hot tongue laid flat against the broken skin.

“OH, OZ!” A chorus of voices chimes in a truly pornographic tone.

The both of you jump and are snapped out of the bubble you’d enjoyed. Oz looks directly to the right of the room, now seeing about half a dozen of the girls from the club giggling and faux moaning at the sight of their boss and his ‘friend’. He growls and throws the cushion behind him at the window pane looking into their dressing room, he knocks over a tall lamp in the process.

“KNOCK IT OFF, GIRLS” He booms, a comic frown painting his face as he glares at the women. The girls just giggle and run from the glass and back to their business. You bury your face in his neck completely mortified. He cools down and raises a hand to your upper back in comfort.

“M’Sorry about that, babe. The girls just like to make fun with me” He breathes in a light laugh. He feels you shake above him, your own mortification turning to laughter as well. You mumble into his velvet blazer.

“Should probably invest in some good curtains. You could spring for them in the budget I’m sure”

He lets out a deep belly laugh at that and you shake against his rising chest, his hands continuing to move slowly along your back.

“You want to get out of here? I’m a couple blocks away” He offers into your ear, hot breath moving the whisps of hair by his lips.

“Please, I don’t need an audience. As flattering as it is” you smile as you pull back to look at him.

You move off of him, smoothing your dress before you take your bag and phone in hand. He groans as he stands, circulation returning to his bad leg as he joins you at the stairs. Before he makes for the first step down, he throws his head into the dressing room.

“Goodnight, girls!” His voice dripping with sarcasm as he waves them off.

“Goodnight, Oz!” The girls return with harmonious sing song voices, giggles still working through the room.

You thankfully remembered to stop by coat check, winter in Gotham was no joke. While waiting for the man to return with your warm jacket, you saw new faces continuing to stream into the club. Oz has got to be sitting on a fortune here you think. The guy can’t even leave the club without a thousand goodbyes and handshakes to staff or customers. Once he finally makes it through the sea of outstretched hands and arms, his own hand returns to the small of your back. Now though it rests just above your ass as he exits the club. The sky is completely overcast, haze and fog settling over the streetlights of the Waterfront. You see the twin bouncers bid you both a goodnight as they vet and survey those impatiently waiting to enter the teeming club.

Oz points out his car that was brought round by a gangly man, barely out of his teens that seems to shake as Oz approaches him. Oz hands him a hundred-dollar bill and thanks him while you eye the vehicle. A no doubt custom Maserati in violet with gold trim. Jesus. While you ogle the choice of car, Oz opens the passenger side for you to escape the cool rain that began to dissipate. The interior is even more lavish you initially thought. Heated dark leather seats and a flat screen for a radio system. It suits Oz you realise, as if he was going to be driving an 80’s Cadillac with leopard interior. The driver side door opens, and Oz grimaces as he puts his bad leg in before shutting the door. The pain immediately swapped out for delight as he starts the car over, the screen flashing to life as he pulls out of the spot expertly and makes the short trip to his apartment. Shit. you had better text your friends before they get worried.

Okay don’t be mad. I’m going home with someone

OMG

Fuck off who

Girl…

Stop, not the guy from the bar???

Yes lmao

PLEASE SAY SIKE

GIRL.

Get it I guess… :/

You better give us all the nasty details tomorrow

The messages continue to flood in, you silence your phone and leave it on your lap. You are going to get so much shit for this you already know. Oz brings you back into the moment as he slides a hand onto your thigh when you pull up to a red light. He gives a firm squeeze that makes your toes curl in your shoes as he begins to drive through the wet city streets. This is gonna be good.

[fanfic-inator795]

Found this cool Penguin cover in the Batman and Robin book I bought a few days ago ^v^