Alfred was in the kitchen, a usual spot for him in the manor, with the television turned to some cooking channel. The butler himself was busily preparing the young master's after school snack. Cutting the cheese to look like animals Alfred hummed to himself and arranged the cheese-amals on the plate with the corresponding animal crackers, and wrapping it in wrap before sticking it in the fridge.<br/>"There, all ready." The butler continued to hum as he cleaned off the counter, and turned off the television. He had grown use to the quiet that came from Wayne Manor when it's residents were out. He could hear each of his steps echoing off the polished floors as he made his way to Thomas Wayne's study which was often left in a bit of a mess when the occupant would work late into the night, only to abandon what he was doing in favour of bed and rushing out the door the next morning.<br/><br/>Alfred loved working for the Wayne's, they were a family to him and he would do anything for the three of them. Stepping into the study he began closing and putting books away, stacking papers, and picking up discarded ties, socks, and jackets. He laughed to himself when he picked a photo up from under the desk; it depicted the family somewhere out on the estate, smiling and looking happy for once. Lately, with work and such the Wayne's had grown much more serious -- even to the point where young Bruce had come to Alfred for attention and such. Thomas was always locking himself in his study or at work, while Martha was always making social calls to other high status families and having "ladies nights" with her "friends". Putting the photograph up Alfred finished his tidying and was making his way back to the kitchen to make a cup of tea when he heard the front door open and the sound of footsteps int he front entrance.<br/>"Master Bruce, you are home early." Thomas Wayne soon followed his son in the door, looking upset about something. Alfred took his coat, hanging it up he asked if everything was alright but Thomas had already left for the study. Alfred knew that it wouldn't be long before he would call for a drink. Taking this as an opportunity to approach Bruce, the butler did just that.<br/>"Bruce, did something happen at school today?" He knew the young master had been getting bullied lately but surely that couldn't have been what had caused his father's displeasure.