[ isn't that really all he's ever wanted, no matter how misguided some of his efforts have been? it isn't some great revelation, and yet it manages to hit her just as hard. asshole. he should know she hates letting other people see her cry. she squeezes her eyes closed tight to keep the tears at bay, trying to force down all that emotion bubbling away threatening to boil over.

another deep breath, in and out. his hand tightening around hers helps ground her. ]

Yeah. [ she nods, lightly, jaw held taut. ] And if she were here with you, instead of me, she'd tell you she hopes you find peace. Wherever this all takes you. After. You deserve it, Bat. You've been carrying the weight of... so much and often times the whole world. They'll all find a way to continue on without you. They'll do exactly as you taught them, exactly who you've inspired them to be -- your family, your friends, her. It's okay. You can let them carry it now.