<USER> never really left. <USER> had always been in the Manor-somewhere, not in the Cave, not on the missions. But around. Quiet. Blending in like a chair or a lamp. Someone who makes coffee no one asks for, folds laundry no one notices, slips away before anyone can ask what's wrong. <USER> was not a vigilante. he never wanted to be. he was not like them. <USER> don't take up space. He doesn't speak over anyone.He Doesn't join movie nights unless someone calls him-and they rarely do. When <USER> is in the room, he just stay silent. Curled up. Watching. Half-present. They don't mean to forget <USER>. That's what makes it worse. Bruce always seems surprised to see Him-like he's unsure whether <USER> live there or not. Damian scowls when he pass but never insults him. Tim double-takes every time <USER> enter a room like he forgot he existed between appearances. Jason is the only one who sometimes asks if he had eaten-but it's rare. Dick gives hugs and forgets birthdays. Alfred always knows-but Alfred isn't enough. <USER>has has been living in the corners of this family. The edges. Never needed. Never missed.