Chapter Text
She takes in every word slowly as her index finger trace the lines of juvenile fantasy. She sighs, turning her head to glance out the window to the open field where the boys are throwing around a ball. She stares longingly as her father ruffles Clark, her older brother's hair, for throwing the ball on the ground, which is what she guess they'd call a touchdown? It doesn't make much sense, but oh, how she wishes she were able to join them.
"Kara!" Kara all but throws herself off the windowsill, standing, straightening her dress, and dropping the book in her wake. The door opens, and the familiar face of one of the neighboring women strides in. Her eyes fall on the book Kara's just dropped, and she looks up with a glare. "Where'd you get that?" She chews her lip, looking at the said object. "You ought to respond when someone asks you a question, child. Where are your manners?"
Kara looks back up, "Clark gifted it to me, madam. It serves as a late birthday present." She stares at her from head to toe, "Well then, you must find a time to indulge yourself with such foolery and not while you're doing your chores." Kara bites her tongue from pointing out that they aren't really her chores because they have nothing to do with her. She thinks of herself as a servant rather than a dutiful kid.
"Come on, go help with dinner and makeup Toby's bed before you come down." Her shoulders fall, "But I just gave him a bath and folded the laundry.." Her ambition gradually fades as the look on the woman's face drops. "And now you'll make the beds, always complaining that one." She mutters the last part making audible comments about her incompetence. It's not her bed to make; she hadn't slept in it, and she's a mess because she's been cleaning all day with little of a break.
However, there's no use fretting, for Kara's already used to this and knows that there's little to be done about it. She bends down to retrieve her book and holds it to her chest as she makes her way to the nearest room to tidy the sheets. She sends an envious glare to the boy scribbling on the walls, knowing she's the one that'll be given the task of cleaning it.
Though she shouldn't complain because Toby's a little boy and should express himself however he can, sometimes she feels like a side character in her own life—programmed for obviously something, just not something important enough to be heard or seen more than once. She often finds herself wondering if there's a place for her on earth.
A place where the sun always shines, where she doesn't have to follow after the men or elders. A place where men and women are equal, appearance-wise as well because these dresses are rather bothersome to wear all the time. She fluffs the pillow flinching at the shout from somewhere in the house, "Kara, make haste! We'll need to eat before sundown!" She rolls her eyes, "We need to eat before sundown." She mocks with a scoff.
She makes the mistake of looking up and locking eyes with sharp blue ones. Leslie. The most infuriating person on this planet. Her eyes glimmer with mischief, and she turns her head without breaking eye contact. "You wouldn't." Kara grits out. It falls on deaf ears because the other girl's quick to run to snitch. She throws a pillow at the girls retreating form.
Rao, she hates it here.
"Kara, bring out the tray! Our neighbors are here!" She stands from her seat in the kitchen and picks up the tray covered in complimentary pastries. She walks into the living room to find her mother talking to a blonde woman, her father shaking hands with assumingly the other woman's spouse. "This is Kara, Clark's sister." She silently applauds herself for not shrinking at her mother's words.
She turns to the couple with a slight bow, "It's a pleasure having you all. Pardon my appearance. I'm rather clumsy." Truth be told, she woke up even earlier than usual to prepare herself for her new neighbors' arrival, but then her mother assigned her to the kitchen, and she instantly knew her efforts proved to be futile. Kara would call herself a good cook, but she spent more time cleaning up than eating, so it all just cancels out.
The couple stares at her, confused, but nevertheless greet her with a warm smile. "I'm Eliza Danvers, and this is my husband, Jeremiah." She holds out her hand, and Kara eyes it wearily. Girls are generally not on the receding end of a handshake here. She shakes Eliza's hand though she's not one to be rude. "It's nice to meet you, Kara. You look lovely, by the way." Kara blinks and then again. She hasn't been complimented by anyone other than her father and brother.
She smiles, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear, "Thank you." She replies shyly. The woman's focus leaves her, and Kara turns to watch the arrival of an agitated taller redhead girl. "This is our daughter, Alex," Eliza announces as the girl walks up to her. I stare wildly at the abnormal trio. Jeremiah wraps his arm around his daughter and another over his wife's waist.
The said daughter is only wearing a graphic t-shirt with shorts and shoes I've only ever seen a few tourists wear—clothes I'd never be allowed to wear, well, here at least. "Where'd you say you all are from again?" My mother asks as we all migrate over to the couches. "Far." Eliza swats at her daughter fondly. "We're from America. My wife and I were just relocated for work." Jeremiah chuckles.
Kara's parents nod, but she doesn't pay much attention to them, eager to learn new information about this peculiar family. Both parents work, and their daughter is apparently allowed to express herself without being chastised. "Both?" They turn to her, and she shifts in her seat. "You both work?" Jeremiah nods, and Eliza watches her with an unfamiliar look on her face. "We're both scientists."
Kara's eyes widened involuntarily, "Really?" and it sounded more inquisitive than she wanted it to. They nod with a chuckle, and she feels my mother tense beside her. "Yes, really. More so doctors, though." She nods, absorbing the given information enthusiastically. "So, what is America like?" Her mother places a warning hand on her leg, "Kara." That's all she needs to say for her daughter to remember her place.
It doesn't matter what America's like because that's not her place. Her place, her reality, is here with her family. Slaving away until a suitor fit enough for her parents roll around and she's married off to them given a chance. Finally, someone clears their throat, and she looks past her mother to her father, who's leveling her with a pitiful stare, "Sweetheart, why don't you go show Alex the back?"
His youngest heir lights up and shoots up, nodding. It's a little secret she and her father share. Kara isn't exactly allowed out to the stables unless she's cleaning, and by that time, the horses are resting, and the sun is down, making it far too late for riding. Of course, her mother isn't aware of this, but for her birthday, her father gifted her the gorgeous caramel horse, whom she calls Walnut.
"Of course, father. If you'd follow me?" The redhead stares at her until her father pushes her up. "Sure." She says shortly, shoving her hands in the pockets of the unfamiliar material shorts. Kara departs with a small head bow to the adults left in the room and steadies herself from rushing out of the house. "Slow down!" She winces and pushes up her glasses as the older girl catches up.
"Sorry," Kara mumbles her apology opening the door for the girl and shutting the door carefully behind them. "Cool.." Kara turns to find the new stranger scanning the field in awe. She walks up behind her, "It's quite pretty when you get over everything else." She comments, passing her to the stables. "What do you mean by everything else?" She asks, seemingly following her guide. Kara shrugs, tugging the Dutch door open and making a beeline for her horse.
Ha, her horse. "The people, I guess." This draws a laugh from Alex, "I feel like I was thrown into a nineties film or something. It's like everything is in black and white here." Kara just nods, not exactly sure what a nineties film would even look like. "I suppose to Americans we might resemble.. Mormons? My apologies, I'm not well versed in religions and such." Alex groans, "Do you all talk like that?"
She pauses from where she's preparing the mare for riding and glances at the stall Alex's behind. "Like what? Do we have an accent we're ignorant to?" To her, Alex doesn't sound any different from anyone she knows, though Argo is relatively far from other cities that share the standard UK accent. "No, not an accent. Just the way you all talk like civilians from my American history books. Though some people might still talk like that in Texas, I'm not sure what goes down over there."
The blonde laughs, shaking her head. "Well, other than the occasional tourists, you're the only American I'm familiar with if I'm able to say as much." After adjusting the saddle, she grabs the reins leading the horse outside alongside Alex. She smiles as Walnut nudges a grumpy Alex, who nudges her back with a frown. "Do we act like the people you speak of from your studies?" Kara jokes and Alex turns to her.
"Depends. What do you normally do?" She looks forward with furrowed brows and shrugs, "Cook, clean.. and repeat, I reckon." She glances at the girl who's nodding slowly, "And the men?" She lets out a breathless sigh, "Anything their hearts let them do, I suppose." Kara abruptly stops when she realizes there isn't anyone besides her; she turns, confused, to find Alex gaping at her. "You're joking.. right?" She makes a face, and Alex rushes to her.
"I didn't know laws still allowed stuff like this.." She mutters, avoiding Kara's watchful gaze. "My mother's the leader of this town. I shouldn't speak of such thing aloud, but everyone knows it." She announces, scratching behind Walnut's ear. Alex perks back up, "Like the mayor?" Kara blinks at her and shrugs, "If being mayor means having everyone come to you with their worries and problems, then I imagine."
"On a normal day, I'd say that's cool, but this place isn't normal. In fact, it's the opposite." She comments, kicking a stone. Kara holds a hand over her eyes, blanching at the sun's sudden arrival, lighting up the field to pretty lime color. "On a normal day, I'd argue with you, but I just find myself agreeing with your sentiment. Would you like to ride with me?" Kara asks, changing the course of conversation.
Alex crosses her arms, staring at Walnut hesitantly, "I don't exactly know how to ride one." She admits. Kara stares at her waiting for the idea in her head to finalize. "How about I teach you how to ride.. and you teach me about.. America? Or anywhere, really. It's quite dull here." The redhead's eyes gloss over the mare before dropping her arms in defeat. "Alright, fine." Kara claps excitedly and shoves the reins in Alex's hand.
She lifts herself up, throws a leg over the saddle, and settles on Walnut comfortably. Alex hands her the reins, and she helps the girl climb on behind her. "Walnut's really friendly when you get to know her," Kara announces, leaning down to caress the mare's face. "You named your horse Walnut?" Alex asks in disbelief, "You know what. That sounds just like you." Kara laughs, shooting the girl a look over her shoulder.
"And you know me enough to make such demanding assumptions?" She shrugs in response, "I channeled your vibe. It's an American superpower." Kara stares at her blankly before jerking the reins and letting Walnut run freely.
"Slow down, Kara!"
"I mean it, you brat!"
And that was the beginning of a beautiful but totally bizarre friendship.
"Can't you come out today?" Alex asks wearily from the fence she's leaning on. Kara abandons the basket she's holding on the porch, walks down the few steps, and walks over to Alex. When the older girl looks up from where she's tracing patterns on the fence ledge, she jerks up, perplexed. "You're coming?" Kara opens the fence and closes it behind her with a smile, "I thought that was the purpose of your visit." She shrugs, "Yeah, but I expected you to say no as usual."
Kara nods, fixing her purse over her shoulder. "Isn't it a little hot to be wearing that?" Kara looks down at her outfit with a frown, her thin white dress, yellow stockings, and brown ankle boots. Though she has to admit there's an apparent contrast between her choice of clothing and Alex's baggy t-shirt tucked into ripped jeans combo.
"My father already allowed me to go on a trip to the market with you. Wearing anything else would be pushing it." She remarks, linking their arms. They stroll along the barren road, talking about everything and nothing at once. Who would've thought they'd make such good friends? An American and a decided Mormon. "Will you be attending mass this Sunday? I'll save you an extra serving of those mini dogs you like."
Alex hums thoughtfully, "Maybe, I still don't like the idea of wearing a dress for so long. No offense." She shakes her head, "None taken. I get rather tired of them myself at times." Her companion looks her up and down, "Why not just wear pants?" A laugh bubbles from the blonde's throat, "Because it's not right for ladies to wear trousers, Alex. No offense." The older girl shrugs, "None taken, and from the way you eat, you're fairly a lady."
Kara feigns annoyance by nudging Alex, who shoves her back. "Cut it out, you worm." She rolls her eyes, "Such vulgar words for a lady." Kara comments mockingly. It's as if all those phrases about what a lady shouldn't do are engraved into her head. She could probably write them all down in alphabetical order if you asked. She hums, jerking her head in the direction of town. "The town's over there. Where are we going?"
Alex holds a finger to her lips, "It's a surprise." And it's only then that Kara notices the bag Alex brought along with her. She doesn't question her friend, though, trusting her guidance, and they walk in the opposite direction to what she knows is all land. "Alex, if anyone catches me where I'm not presumed to be, I'll be punished till the next summer season." She just laughs, patting Kara's arm reassuringly. "Relax, Kara, I wouldn't let you get in trouble. I'd take the blame."
"You ought to. You're the one guiding us." Kara warns as they come to a stop, much to her confusion. "Here." She turns to stare at the pair of pants being outstretched toward her. She looks up at Alex, unamused. "What? I won't tell if you don't." Kara bites her bottom lip, pushing her glasses up. "I really shouldn't.." Alex's mouth twirls upward in a smirk, "No.. but you could."
That's the main difference between her and Alex. Kara has always applauded Alex's drive to be herself. Wearing clothes not socially accepted, teaching others American customs, and saying what's on her mind at any given moment. The opposite of Kara, who's used to living her life pleasing others. But as she stares at the opportunity in front of her in the shape of pants, she wonders if just maybe she'd be living for herself if she gave in.
With steady hands, she takes the offering from Alex with a raised eyebrow. "Why would I be needing pants?" She waves Kara off, "Don't worry about it. I'll be right back. Hurry up." And she takes off, disappearing through the fields. Quickly, Kara kicks off her shoes and pulls down her stockings to pull on the pants. They fit her like a glove, and she can't help the giant smile on her face from growing at the revelation.
She folds her previous garment and packs it neatly into her purse. She then waits patiently for Alex to return as promised. Finally, she does, blinking at her. "You know what? Dress and jeans aren't a terrible combo congrats, kid." Kara frowns as Alex leads her into the direction she ran off to. "Why am I receiving such praise?" Alex spares her a quick glance, "You'd fit right in at an American school. The blonde with blue eyes, bimbo stereotype, and all."
Kara doesn't know what a bimbo is, but she isn't curious enough to ask. So instead, she lets herself be pulled by Alex onto another field. "Here, my friend, is where I'll teach you baseball." She admits, dropping my hand to make a horrific attempt at jazz hands. She must be rubbing off on the girl. "Baseball? Why?"
Alex shrugs, "You mentioned that time your dad snuck you out in Clark's old clothes, and you both played ball until the sun went down, and I thought I'd do the same. Well, technically, I didn't sneak you out. Your father let you out." Kara shakes her head, "You make it sound as though I'm a pet." She shrugs, not bothered, "You might as well be." Kara doesn't flinch, nor does she react because she is already versed in Alex's opinion of her lifestyle.
She actually finds Alex's commentaries rather refreshing. They remind her that living the way she does, isn't, in fact, normal and somewhat depressing. However, she's broken from her thoughts when Alex shoves a wooden stick into her arms. She struggles at the sudden interruption, daring to drop it. "It's a bat. You hit stuff with it.. traditionally balls, though." Kara stares at the object she's only seen her brother use outside with his friends and smiles.
"Can I rightfully assume I'll be hitting things?" Alex shrugs, her eyes full of mischief. "You can rightfully assume anything you want. I'm your guide today. What do you want to do?" Kara freezes, not exactly sure what she's being asked. She looks around, inspecting the field for someone she knows as if this is all one big joke. Finally, she looks back at Alex and points at herself with a frown, "You're asking me?" The girl huffs, "Is there anyone else here, Kara?" She asks, gesturing around.
Kara glances at her feet, then back to bat with a shrug. "Hit.. Something?" She's well aware that a young girl shouldn't be so indecent with their speech, but she's with Alex. The person who doesn't care about what she wears, how much she eats, how she speaks, or how she holds herself. Alex nods contently and grabs a stash of empty cans and bottles out of her bag, lining them up on the dingy excuse of a fence. "Then, by all means, young padawan hit away." She says in a deep voice, and Kara assumes it's a reference to another one of those American films she hasn't watched.
She twirls the bat in her hands anxiously and assumes the position she's seen her brother in when playing ball with his friends. Then, she takes a deep breath and glances at Alex, who's giving her a thumbs up, which she learned is a sign of encouragement. She does a quick shrug before swatting at a bottle and physically flinching at the impact and noise. "Nice swing! Keep going!" Alex calls out on the sidelines.
Kara blinks at the shattered shards with a new profound fascination. She resumes position and swings at the next item, a can. Both girls watch as it flies over the fields and land in a random area. "That was awesome, Kara! Are you sure you've never swung a bat before?" Kara shakes her head with a huge smile, "That was indeed awesome! Look how far it's gone!" She adds, pointing into the distance. Alex nods proudly, "We have all morning until they expect you back."
Kara chuckles at the wink Alex sends her and zones in on the cans stacked on top of each other. Then, she hits them as hard as possible in a quick motion, watching in amusement as they dent in half. And that's how they spend most of their morning, only deciding to stop when the sun fully rises and the sunlight becomes too much. "Up for brunch?" Alex asks as I tug my tights back up, the pants from earlier carefully disregarded into my purse.
"Brunch?" Kara asks, running her hands through her hair in hopes of looking more appropriate. The older girl nods, "Brunch. It's not breakfast nor lunch; it's in-between." She replies, tugging her bag over her shoulder. "Americans are so.. ridiculous." Kara decides as they reach back on the familiar road. "If I weren't so hungry, I'd argue." She shakes her head at her friend in faux disappointment.
"Hey, let's stop by Ronaldo's," Alex says, tugging Kara left when they reach the market. She frowns, staring at the in the wall restaurant, "What do they offer?" Alex blinks at her before rolling her eyes and pushing her in, "I cannot believe you've lived here your entire life and still don't know the place." She shrugs bashfully, "I barely have time to finish my chores, much less attend the market, Alex."
She does, however, look around the place with interest. It's bigger on the inside than the outside, and there's a variety of seats to choose from, but Kara has always preferred the booths. There's barely a handful of people, probably because everyone else is working, Kara thinks. Also, school's out for Easter break, Kara's favorite holiday, simply because she can participate with the others during the egg hunting race.
Even if she ends up giving most of her candy to the boys because she'll spoil her figure.
Kara shakes her head as the girl huffs and drags them to the counter, "I'll have my regular. My sister here will have the double cheeseburger, fries, and a chocolate milkshake.. and a cupcake." She opens her mouth to argue, but Alex holds up a hand, paying for their order, when the worker writes down their order with a nod. Kara drags them to a booth before Alex can do something else, like make them sit by the windows.
"Alex, I can't eat all of that!" She hisses to the undisturbed girl. "Yeah, you can. I've watched you eat more when we're together." She remarks with furrowed eyebrows. Kara's eyes twitch in an attempt to stop herself from rolling them. "I could eat that much, but I shouldn't!" Alex clicks her teeth, "Listen very carefully to the words that are about to leave my mouth." She says, leaning in to hold onto both sides of my face.
"Fuck whatever rules you have to follow when you're with everyone else. You can do shit all with me because that should've already been an option given to you." She blinks at her attacker and thinks she probably favors a fish right now. But the sentiment doesn't escape her, and her bottom lip trembles. She leans over to wrap Alex in an uncomfortable hug, not the least surprised when she groans.
They pull back, and she wipes a loose tear away, "Thanks, Alex." Then the waitress arrives, placing our food down before them. "Anytime, kid." Kara rolls her eyes this time, "We're only two years apart." She points out defensively. The waitress claps and glances between them, "Now, you two sisters ought to behave. There's too much animosity in the air nowadays. Now enjoy your meal, ladies!" And she stalks off through a door, Kara assumes is the kitchen.
"Sisters?" Kara blurts, now recalling Alex's words from earlier. She shrugs, moving their plates around until their food is in front of them, "They're less likely to annoy us if I say we're family." She replies entirely, and Kara nods unsurely. Alex glances at her and sighs, "If you're uncomfortable, I won't say it anymore." Kara groans, sinking into her chair, content that they're away from prying eyes.
"I didn't even say anything." The redhead stares at her, then quickly flicks her forehead, "Crinkle." She pouts, rubbing her head, "Stupid crinkle." She sighs, sitting back up, "And no, I'm not uncomfortable. In fact, you're a better sister than my actual brother is." She explains, swirling her straw around in the thick brownish liquid. "Then it's decided," Alex says, and Kara looks up with a frown.
"I'm your new sister. Your new older, hotter, funnier, and cooler sister." Then Kara commits a second-degree felony; she snorts. The act itself startles her so much that she throws her hands over her face, looking around for any spectators. However, Alex thinks it's by far the best thing she's ever witnessed and throws her head back in laughter. "Oh my God!" Kara clears her throat, twirling her hair around her finger.
"That wasn't even me." She sighs out.
"What?" Alex gets out through her giggles.
"It wasn't me. It was the seat. I suppose it's seen better days." She even pokes the red material to sell her story. However, it doesn't do much because Alex just stares at her with an unamused face.
"First, she snorts, and now she lies. Good Catholic girl Kara Zor-El goes rogue, I can see the headlines now." Kara watches as the girl winces when her foot collides with her shin. "You're such a tease." Alex winks, eating a few of her fries. "Always, now eat up, sis." She says, drinking her soda. Kara shakes her head with a smile and picks up her burger delicately. Well aware of Alex's eyes on her, she takes her precious time bringing it up to her mouth. "So annoying."
She chuckles, finally taking a bite of the greasy delicacy. Alex holds up a questioning thumb, and she nods in response. "Ravishing," Kara says in a deep voice and squeaks when she gets a tissue thrown at her. "Where are your manners, young lady?" Kara continues taking a drag of her milkshake. "You're taking the annoying little sister role a little too serious." Alex deadpans, and Kara shrugs a shoulder in response.
"Now hurry up before your mother shoots lasers from her eyes at me for keeping you out for so long."
"What a nerd," Kara comments, repeating the phrase from Alex.
Kara and Alex did, in fact, get in trouble. For Zor-El allowed his daughter limited freedom without the knowledge of his wife. Kara was rushed inside, and Alex took off with a quick goodbye, not exactly curious about what Alura would do to her if she hung around any longer.
Kara's thirteen when her brother gets married. She's happy for him. She really is. Clark and Lois are a beautiful couple, and their genuine relationship is quite rare. They were already arranged to be wed when they met, but that apparently hadn't mattered to them because they fell in love somewhere along the road. But, yup, there it is. That word that proves something's too good to be true.
Kara's happy for her older brother, of course, but she wasn't quite ready to lose him yet. Sure she spent most of her youth assuming the roles of a young woman, and he did whatever he wanted, but despite that, they loved each other. She'd miss the late-night rides trying to see which of their horses was faster. (Kara always won, but she assumed he just let her win every time for the sake of it)
She'd miss hanging out in his bed reading books he brought just for her because he knew she liked them. Sure he had his moments where he could be the most arrogant man ever, but she looks at their parents and can't even blame him. However, he's different now. He laughs more and hasn't had an outburst since meeting Lois. She supposes she's good for him. As if reading her mind, Alex wraps an arm around her shoulders.
"Looks like it's just us now, sis." Kara nods, holding the hand dangling off her shoulder. "Alex?" In response, the girl hums, "Is there Cheeto crumbs on your fingers?" The arm on her shakes, and she turns to realize it's because Alex is laughing, "That was one time!" Kara shakes her head, giggling along until Clark jogs over to them. "Ah, the notorious Danvers sisters!" He jokes, and they laugh even more.
Ever since she and Alex decided they were star-fated sisters, Alex continued telling strangers we were sisters until eventually, half the town believed Kara was a Danvers, much to her mother's vexation. However, she thinks that made it even funnier. Especially that one time they went to a neighboring event, and everyone commented about how she looked like Eliza, her supposed mother.
She extracts herself from Alex to allow Clark to wrap her in a bone-crushing hug. "Goodness, when did you get so tall?" He asks as she pats his back. "Haven't the clue, Clark. How are you?" She asks, ignoring the voice in the back of her head. They pull back, and he beams at her, "Amazing, Kara! I'm married to the fairest lady on the continent!" She giggles, covering her mouth with her palm, aware of the familiar faces around.
"I'll miss you, brother," Kara confesses, smoothing out her yellow gown. Clark stares at his sister lovingly, "Oh Kara, I'll miss you too! Who'll dare challenge me to a horseback race? Or wake me at the crack of dawn to retrieve books that just arrived at the bookstore?" She swats him playfully, stiffening when their mother makes an appearance. "Children." She says with a smile Kara's only seen directed to Clark.
Kara watches longingly as their mother palms Clark's cheek, and he leans down so she can place a kiss on his head. "We are so proud of you and the wonderful man you've grown into." He lets out a watery chuckle, and their father comes up, placing a steady hand on his shoulder. "If only the others could see you now, oh how I'd brag!" And the trio laughs as if rehearsed. A lump grows in Kara's throat, and she takes a hesitant step back.
She turns, feeling like she's interrupting a family moment, though it's her family as much as Clark's. She walks over to the abandoned swing hanging on a tree. No one ever uses it because of how unstable it looks, though Kara knows it's probably even stronger than her. She takes a seat, not daring to look at her family partying and enjoying themselves because she'd just make herself feel selfish and guilty.
Someone leans on the tree, and she only turns when a gentle hand is placed on her shoulder. It's Eliza. Alex's mom. Alex's sweet, caring, and wonderful mom. She clenches her hands to shake the vile thoughts, knowing somewhere inside she'd never use those adjectives for her own mother. "Doing alright, sweet pea?" She gives the older woman a tight smile and a nod, remembering her formalities.
"Yes, Mrs. Danvers. I'm quite alright." If she doesn't believe her, she doesn't show it. "American parties are quite similar to this." The sentence intrigues Kara enough for her to stare at the crowd of guests. It's like every party. The long table of food brought by different families, adults and children alike, dancing to the music played by the live band, then the small group of church women gossiping about everyone and everything.
Kara just blinks, "Oh." She finds herself saying out loud. "You sound disappointed?" She shrugs, gently rocking herself forward and back. "I suppose I assumed America would at least have better social engagements." She replies honestly. She hears the older woman hum before receiving a response, "I said similar, not same love." Kara huffs as Eliza laughs. "Whatever is the difference?" Kara knows the difference. She'd hope so after reading all those books in her free time. (Even if they were mostly juvenile fiction)
"If you ever find yourself in the states, just give me a call, and I'll throw one for you." Kara wavers, jolting her head to stare at the blonde, "For me? Are you joshing? I'd be rather disappointed if you are." She warns, and Eliza shakes her head, "I promise Kara," She says earnestly, holding out her pinky, and against the tentative voice in Kara's head, she wraps her pinky around Eliza's.
"That's my cue. Remember to come say bye before you leave." She says, forfeiting her spot to my father, who's staring anywhere but Kara. "Do you reckon you'd want a wedding like this?" He asks, pocketing his hands. She sighs, not bothering to scan the crowd again, and scrambles for a response. Her eyes catch sight of Clark and Lois laughing in each other's arms, and a small smile appears on her face.
"Possibly.. If I found someone who makes me feel how Clark feels about Lois." She made a note not to mention only then is when she'll want to get married because she knows that now Clark's been wed, she's next. She doesn't turn, but she hears her father rustle beside her. He goes quiet, and she hears the subtle sound of writing, and only then is when she glances at him curiously, "What are you doing?"
She realizes she won't be receiving a response when she spots the crinkle on her father's forehead. One of the two traits she's said to have obtained from him. The physical trait that conveys he's in deep thought. Kara places her hands on her lap, allowing the wind to rock her. "This. My dearest daughter." Her father says after a few silent moments, "Are the traits your future spouse must inhabit to be allowed to court you."
Kara makes a face, plucking the long piece of paper from her father's outstretched hand. A laugh makes its way out of her mouth at the carefully scribbled bullet points. "Honesty.. Humor.. Loyalty.." She rolls her eyes fondly at her father's antics. "I haven't the clue why you're laughing at my life's mission!" He says, in faux distress. His daughter laughs even harder, "Life's mission?" She squeaks.
He nods, puffing out his proudly, "Making sure you're content." Her laughter dies in her throat, and she whips her head to stare at the loving expression on her father's face. She's no stranger to it, for, among everyone else, he's her go-to, excluding Alex. "What.. what about the others? Clark and mother?" She asks, just looking for something to say.
He shrugs a shoulder, "I already know they're content, or at least they will be somehow, but you.. You're an enigma, Kara. And as much as I hate to say it, you're not one of us." Her face falls, and she bows her head. "You're so much more! You break the rules to read; you look the most content when you're doing that or riding Walnut. And your paintings could take you far."
Something in her head clicks, and she turns to her father in disbelief, "You've seen them? How, when?" She rambles out, and a smirk crosses his face, "You most certainly haven't gotten your sneaky tactics from me, that's for sure." Her shoulders fall, "And you suppose they're.. good?" He nods, "I know they're good, Kara. Promise me you'll pursue it someday."
"I can't." She declares soberly. Her chest tightens at the expression on his face, and she can only assume he opened his mouth to question her, but then her mother grabs his arm, rambling. "Zor-El, we must make haste! Lois' father is about ready to leave, and you've yet to greet him!" And with that, she's dragging him into the crowd while he stares at his daughter bleakly.
She stands before her peace can be interrupted once again and makes a beeline to the punch bowl. Absentmindedly she stuffs the note into her purse and pours herself a cup of punch. "Would you mind pouring me one as well?" She sighs, handing the newcomer her cup and reaching for another. "You didn't have to give me yours.. but thanks." She spares him a glance, "Do I know you?"
She doesn't mean for it to come off bothered, but she hasn't seen him before, like ever. She's positive she'd remember his clean-cut haircut, his clear blue eyes, and overall his rather attractive persona. He shakes his head, sipping at his drink, "Nah, I'm Michael Matthews. You can just call me Mike, though." She nods, "I'm Kara, Kara Zor-El." He nods, "I know. My mother's talking to yours right now."
Her eyebrows furrow, and she turns to indeed see her mother talking to another woman that she's guessing is Mike's mom. "They're old friends." He explains as if reading her mind. "Ah, you're visiting?" He smiles bashfully, "That obvious?" He asks. It is that obvious. Just the way he speaks sets off alarms in Kara's head, but she doesn't bother saying that much. "No," She answers distractedly, watching as Alex runs off with Maggie from their church.
"Would you fancy a dance?" She nearly chokes on the pink liquid, and he's quick to continue, "I asked because you look quite lonely- and that didn't sound much better." He winces, and Kara laughs at the boy, who's even more awkward than her. "Why not?" It's not like they'll ever see each other again, and he's quite charming. "Only as profound friends, though; I have someone waiting for me back home."
She nods, placing her cup down, taking his offering hand. "Best wishes to you both." He lights up, "Why, thank you. You might want to pay your new friend a visit soon. She'd like you." Kara knows she has no intention to pursue their relationship any further, but she smiles and indulges him nevertheless, "What's her name?"
"Imra. Pretty isn't it?" She can't help but chuckle at his affection for this girl, "Quite." He leads her onto the dancefloor, where they keep themselves at a respectable distance. The music changes to something upbeat, and she's silently grateful they don't have to dance too close. She keeps her new friend if she can call him that company until evening strikes and everyone begins to take their leave.
"I appreciated your company," He admits while they stand beside the gate, his van somewhere on the road. "Anytime you find yourself in Argo, just come say hello." She says, and he departs with a hug and a smile. She's still waving when she's interrupted, "Who's that?" Not even phased, she sighs at her sister, "Mike, our mothers are old friends." Alex's eyebrows furrow, "Alura has friends?" She whispers, glancing around wildly.
They share a look before bursting into a fit of giggles, "You're the worst." Kara declares, shoving at her. "Hey, come sleepover." Alex suggests, removing her blazer and wrapping it around her waist. "I'm afraid I'll need my parents' permis-" She shakes her head, cutting Kara off, "I already asked your dad. I don't want you to be alone. It's the first night without Clark." She explains, and Kara pouts, "And to think you wished to spend time with me."
Alex rolls her eyes, "Whatever are you going to say bye?" When Kara turns, she finds her parents' car already driving off, Clark's car going the opposite direction. Her eyes stay glued on the grey van until it's too far off in the distance to be visible. "Hey, it's alright. I bought ice cream?" She gives her a tight smile, and instead of pestering her, Alex squeezes her hand and drags her to the Danvers family car.
They climb in, Kara immediately rooting herself in Alex's side. When they first met, Alex couldn't bear how affectionate Kara was and often curved any type of physical touch, but soon realized it was a part of Kara's love language. And, of course, she gave in and found she didn't quite mind if it was Kara. "How about we make pizza tomorrow?" She mumbles quietly in Kara's ears. Kara looks up, perplexed, and Alex's face drops.
"You've never had pizza? No way, we're getting up early tomorrow." Kara chuckles, resting her head back on the girl's shoulder, deciding
not to mention that she gets up early every morning. The car ride's quiet, and Kara's grateful the Danvers chose not to ask her about how she felt when she entered the car. As close as she is to them, she still hasn't gotten used to their way of living. Expressing feelings certainly wasn't at the top of the list.
They drive in comfortable silence, letting the dim light from street lamps guide them to their destination.
"You didn't have to punch him, Alex!" Kara shouts, pacing the room in a fit of hysteria. "Well, then he shouldn't have said all that dumb shit, Kara!" She pauses, turning to glare at the redhead. "It's normal, Alex! That's how all the men are!" The girl scoffs, "Ridiculing you every day, then trying to marry you to get in your pants?" She asks with a tone of revulsion. Kara rolls her eyes, "This isn't America, Alex! Things are different here. That's literally how half the women are courted here!"
She stares at her unamused, "Alex, I'm fine, alright? I knew this would happen the very second I needed to get a bigger cup bra! Men don't think with their brains, which I found out that little of them have! They court the women they find most attractive, and that's it! I don't like it any more than you do, but what can be done?" Alex stares at her sister silently. She crosses her arms and looks away.
"I love you, Alex, and I appreciate your concern, but I can handle it. I knew my parents wouldn't accept his proposal regardless; he hasn't the money or status." She rubs her chin and stands, "This place is so.. wack. Out of wack." She declares, pouring herself a glass of scotch on the tray. Kara rolls her eyes, watching in irritation and slight concern. "Relax, I only drink once a month." She announces as if that makes it any better.
"I shouldn't have even been with you. I shouldn't be with you." Kara confesses, defeated, and drops down into the spot Alex previously occupied. Alex refills the portion of alcohol she drank with water and sets the bottle back down. "What's that supposed to mean?" She asks calmly. It makes Kara even more bitter because Alex knows what she means, but she'd rather torture her to say it aloud.
"It means the whole congregation found out about you and Maggie, and my mother would rather watch me fall out a window than be seen with you." Alex stares at her, and Kara stares back just as defiantly. "And?" She says, "And what?" Kara shoots back. "What do you think of it?" Alex asks, and even though she's standing tall, her hands crossed across her chest, the emotions she's feeling spill out into her eyes. Kara knows her like a book.
Kara might be a little dense about some modern subjects, but she isn't blind. She's seen the relationship between the two girls grow and knew it was more than platonic. Alex assured her that Maggie was a good friend, but she's never stared at Kara that way. She's never whispered in Kara's ear the way she does with Maggie, and if anyone would've caught it, it would be her. She found herself happy for them, happy for Alex until she realized where they were. Argo.
The place that has a steady set of rules for living. A woman loving another woman unironically doesn't fit within those rules. She was quite caught off guard when her mother screamed at her, asking if she knew. She did, but not before anyone else, and it kind of stung, but this wasn't about her. As expected, she was forbidden to see Alex, for she wouldn't want her to be misled by the two girls' antics.
Normally, Kara was used to following rules, used to just agreeing with anything her elders said, but this was Alex. Her sister from another mother (and father, but who cares really?). She has learned more from Alex and the Danvers than she would ever learn here, unsurprisingly, she thinks. So why would she ever let her mother get in the way of that?
"What I think has no matter, Alex." Alex shakes her head violently, and Kara has half a mind to ask if she's having a stroke of some kind. "No, Kara, it does. I want to know. You talk all the time; I sometimes wonder when you'll get tired and shut up, so don't you dare keep shut about this." She warns, and Kara's stance quickly crumbles.
"Fine, Alex. Do you want to know what I think? I think that I frankly don't care who you love, whether female or male. I believe that if you love her, then you'll fight for her. For both of you. I loved you yesterday, today, and I hope to believe many more days from this one." She watches as tears swell up in the redhead's eyes. She stands, walks over to her, and wraps her in a hug without a word.
She holds the sobbing girl for what feels like hours, not bothering to scramble for words of comfort she knows will be futile. There's nothing to say that would comfort her, for she's been outed unfairly by their pastor. And even though her parents are completely okay with it, having too much love for their daughter to care, it should've been Alex's choice of coming out.
She strokes her hair silently, choosing to ignore the consequences she'll face when she gets home. "Thank you, Kara. You really are my favorite sister." Kara shakes her head fondly, "I'm your only sister, you freak." Alex chuckles, pulling away, "Whatever, nerd." Kara smiles, turning to retrieve her purse, "I should really go, though. I can't imagine the chaos waiting for me." Alex looks at the clock and back to Kara in guilt, "Oh my God, Kara, I'm so sorry-"
Kara waves her off, heading to the door with Alex following close behind. "You mustn't worry, Alex. My mother can't stop me from seeing you. We go to the same school, church, and events." She punctuates with a wink, and Alex rolls her eyes, "I'll you tomorrow?" Kara nods, "By the swings!" She replies, rushing down the steps and taking off with a wave.
Kara's fifteen when her father has a heart attack. She hadn't expected such news ever in life, or at least not this early. It's a regular afternoon consisting of her folding laundry when the house erupts in a turmoil of shouts and wails. She tosses the shirt on the bed and races out of the room to find the others running out of the house. She sets herself in the middle of the hallway, blocking Leslie's way.
"What's going on?" She asks, and for the first time in her life, the girl looks at her with something other than disdain, pity. "You haven't heard?" She asks lowly, and every alarm in Kara's being goes off. "Heard what? Use your words, Leslie." Instead of the typical rude remark she'd receive, the girl sighs, "Your father's in the hospital. He's been rushed to the emergency room."
Everything goes silent, or that's what Kara thinks happens. Because one second, she's standing in the hallway with her second most disliked person, close to the boy from down the street, then in the ER finding her family already there. Her mother's yelling at a nurse, probably for information, and Clark's sitting with Lois and looking at her with guilt.
"Why hasn't anyone told me? Am I not his child as well?" She screams, forgoing the pleasantries because come on, what's so pleasant about any of this? Her mother waves off the nurse and drags her to the side by her elbow, "Lower your voice, child. Have you gone mad?" She yells in a hushed whisper. Kara just yanks her arm from her mother, none of her anger dissipating into fear as it'd normally do.
"What happened to father? Is he alright? Where is he?" She asks frantically, looking over her mother's shoulder, pointedly ignoring the glances from her brother. "He'll be fine. It's just a scare. Now sit and behave yourself!" She hisses and stalks off with a warning glance. Kara huffs, taking a seat the farthest from her brother. This can't be happening. She'd seen him just this morning when he came in and kept her company while she painted until he had to leave for work.
He left saying he'd bring her back a gift on his way home and left her in a state of wonder all morning. And now here she is in the hospitable lobby, praying that he'll be okay because if there's one thing she knows, it's that her mother tends to spin the truth, so everything goes smoothly. Her leg bounces up and down, a nervous tic she's tried to get rid of for a while.
"Kara.." Her leg halts, and she chews on her bottom lip, "Clark." She grits out and holds back a sigh when he takes an uninvited seat beside her. "Come on, don't be like that." She turns to glare at him, "Like what? Like how we've barely spoken since you've married? How I've met my nephews once? How I was the last one informed that our father had heart failure and ran to the hospital on foot?"
She watches as he swallows, dropping his head. "I'm sorry, Kara. I really am." She shakes her head, crossing her arms defiantly. Despite the many negative emotions, she feels she still loves her brother. How could she not? She sighs, rubbing her eyes, "Whatever, Clark." Then he sighs as if this is a hassle to him, "I should've been around more. I shouldn't have left you alone." He says it surely, as if she should under the hidden meaning behind it.
Which she does. He's referring to their mother. She knows he is, and he knows it as well. Well, she'd hope so. He's the one that suggested it. "Yeah.. you should've been." She says and turns back to the door, her father's behind, concluding the conversation. For now, at least. They all rise when the nurse leaves the room, holding up a hand at her mother. "He's stable and awake.. Mr. Zor-El gave specific instructions not to announce his status."
"Excuse me? I'm his wife!" My mother declares as if anyone could forget. Mrs. Zor-El. The half of the perfect couple, one-fourth of the perfect family. God, if they knew. "And he's the patient Mrs. Zor-El. You are, however, allowed to go in, single file." She says slowly, and her mother huffs before entering the room. Kara sits back down, her heart finally returning to its normal pace.
Her mother spends at least twenty minutes and then calls in Clark. He looks at her for some type of permission, and she rolls her eyes, waving him away. He stands and enters the room next. She should've known this is how it'd go. Even when something this critical happens, she'd be last. She'll always be last here. And if she's being honest with herself, she's accepted it in a way.
Or at least that's what she tells herself as she lays her head in the arm resting on the chair handle. She ignores any conversation with her mother and Lois, purposely glancing at the door separating her from her father. When Clark comes out teary-eyed, she pushes past him running into the room, tensing at the sight. Her once energetic and frivolous father lays lifeless of sorts in the bed, covered in tubes.
She hesitantly walks over to the chair beside his bed, eyeing the heart monitor with every breath. Finally, she lowers herself down, and then is when her father turns to her, managing a weary smile. That itself is enough for tears to swell in her eyes. "Oh, don't cry, my Kara. People have to leave this earth sometime." She shakes her head, "Don't say that. You aren't leaving now. It's too soon, father." She chastises, taking his hand in hers.
"You were always the optimistic one out of us.. You're too good for us, Kara, too good for this place." He expresses, and she shakes her head, "No, I'm not father-" He sighs, "Can you answer this question? Honestly?" She nods, not even sure if deceit was a possibility. "When did it happen?" She blinks back in confusion, "I'm afraid I'm not understanding what you're asking." He stares at her solemnly, "When did the light in your eyes die?"
She swallows the nonexistent saliva in her mouth, unsure how to answer. When did it die? Maybe she would be able to answer if she was aware there was a light in the first place. Or had her father just imagined it in hopes that his daughter was actually happy sometime in her life? Instead, she shrugs, looking away. "I thought as much. Can you promise me something?" She turns back, nodding without much of a thought.
"Can you promise that you'll finish my life's mission for me?" Kara doesn't even take a second to wonder about what he's referring to, for the piece of paper from Clark's wedding hangs on her mirror. "I don't need to. You'll be there to complete it yourself." He chuckles as if he's won something, "So you admit you aren't content with your way of living?" She stares at the sickly man and wonders where he finds the energy to stay so chipper.
"I'm only fifteen, father. I have yet to live." She answers truthfully. He waves her off, "What are you going on about? Fifteen years is a long time. Now promise me, Kara." Any amusement from his voice is now gone, replaced with a sense of urgency. Without much of a choice, she nods, "Okay, father, I promise." She declares, rubbing her fingers over his knuckles.
"Good, now I need you to leave this place when you can." She balks at that, "Pardon?" He gives her a lazy smile, "My last wish is for you to go to America. See your sister, live a.. normal life. Sell your paintings or something, but you must leave. You mustn't let them corrupt you and steal all the light from your exquisite being." She doesn't hold the tears back this time.
Her father's on his deathbed, telling her to leave the only place she's ever known and not look back. Because he knows, he knows how difficult it is here, for her. "Now open that box." She blinks, glancing at the velvet box on the side table. She eyes him before taking it with her free hand and placing it on her lap. "What is it?" He shakes his head, and she knows she won't get an answer unless she discovers it herself.
She carefully opens the box gasping at the necklace inside. It's a beautiful diamond necklace, with red and blue stones covering it. "It was passed down from child to child in my family.. I went to the shop to get it all fancied up for you." She shakes her head, "Why?" She croaks, unable to form coherent words just yet. "I know traditionally it goes to the firstborn.. but you deserve it, my daughter."
Her head begins spinning, and she wonders if any girl in Argo has ever heard such beautiful words leave their father's mouths and be directed toward them. "What have I done, father? I'm nothing special." She asks, urging for an answer. Why was her father so different from her mother? From the other fathers in town? "When you grow older, my daughter, you'll come to realize not everything on earth needs an explanation."
"You'll one day have a family of your own, finding a spouse deserving of you. And when you do, think of your childhood and do the exact opposite, alright?" A laugh bubbles from her throat, and she wipes at her eyes. "I don't care how you leave, but you must." He declares, squeezing my hand. "Father, please." She pleads as his eyes begin to droop. Finally, he goes quiet, and the only solace she has is the grip on her hand.
"Goodbye, for now, my Kara. I love you all. I love you. And I want you to find happiness, but you won't find it. Not here." The tears fall even harder, and she tries to quickly wipe them with the sleeve of her dress so she can memorize her father's face for the last time with clear eyes. "I'm proud of my family, of you, and don't you ever forget that. You are a Zor-El, and you must act like one." She shakes her head rapidly, suddenly feeling like a hypocrite for judging Alex.
She leans down, resting her forehead against his hand, and stays like that as his grip gradually loosens. Finally, she jerks her head up when the monitor goes dead and presses the red button beside the bed. "No, no, no, father, wake up! Get up. You must! How am I to complete your foolish mission without you!" She begs, sobbing into his chest. The door flings open, and a group of nurses rushes in, dragging her away. "Father, wake up! Please! Daddy! Wake up, please don't leave me!" She begs.
She quickly finds herself weeping into her older brother's chest, clutching the box in her hand. She assumes he mutters words of comfort, but she can't hear anything over the noises going off in her head. Finally, the nurses come back out, and she can clearly make out their words of sympathy. Kara doesn't want sympathy. She wants her father. When she turns to lash out at them, she catches sight of her mother.
It's a sight to behold. The strong, beautiful, and bold Alura stands before her husband's door, in place, tears streaming down her face. Kara had never seen her mother cry, not even when her own parents passed. Any determination Kara had to leave vanishes as she takes in her mother's weary form, contrasting her usual perfect posture. She pulls away from the brother she's still supposedly crossed at, and walks over to her mother.
She takes her hand without a word, a little gesture of support. Her mother guides her daughter in her arms, caressing her head just like how Kara imagined she would if she cared to. How could she leave her mother like this? How could she leave now at all? Her family's now down to three, and they need her as much as she needs them. She isn't one for assuming, but from the way her mother's actually hugging her. You'd think hell froze over.
She hugs back, blinking back the tears stinging her eyes.
She can't leave.
At least not for now, she tells herself.
She spends three months in mourning when she receives even more heartbreaking news. She's sitting on the swing set, not bothering to look up at the arriving figure. "You.. you know, don't you?" She gives her a stiff nod, her foot making patterns in the soil. "I'm so sorry, Kara. I swear I was going to tell you, but.." Finally, she looks up, "My father died." She says flatly, and Alex rubs her neck, "Well, I wasn't going to phrase it like that, but yeah. I didn't want to trouble you when you already had so much going on."
She listens as the swing beside her creaks and assumes Alex has taken a seat. "I love you so much, Kara. I've been here for so long I've forgotten what home's like.." She looks up, squinting at the sunrise. "When are you leaving, Alex?" The girl doesn't respond, and Kara scoffs, kicking a stone. "You suck." Alex chuckles beside her, "I know, I'm the worst. But, I've got an idea."
Kara turns to her, curious, "What?" Alex stands, waving her arms like a madwoman, "You could come back with us! You're already part of the family. We have extra rooms. You could finally leave this shitshow behind, Kara!" she proposes with a smile, and a twinkle in her eye revealing exactly how much she wishes for everything to go according to plan. Kara shakes her head, standing, "I'm afraid I can't."
Alex's face drops, "Why not? This is what your father wanted, what you wanted, Kara." She sighs because of the truth in her sister's words, "Well, first that's kidnapping, and my family needs me, Alex. I've never seen my mother like this, so, so.. Broken, I suppose." She goes quiet, nodding unhurriedly, "Well, what about you, Kara? What do you need? Isn't this what you wanted?"
She lets her head drop. Everything she's been wishing for since she was a child is being thrown on the table before her, just waiting to be accepted. But, this isn't just about her anymore. "I want to leave, Alex. I want to get as far away from this place as possible, but I need to stay. I ought to be there for my mother, don't you get it? Sure we don't have the picture relationship, but.. she's my mother." She concludes with a shrug.
Alex stares at her with a head tilt, "So, that's it? I go back to America and pretend these last few years didn't exist? Like you don't exist?" She rolls her eyes, "However dramatic, you can write Alex. The phone lines don't pick up that far." She blinks once or twice, "Write? As in handwritten letters?" Kara nods slowly, "Is there another way of writing I'm unsure of?" The girl huffs, running a hand through her hair.
"God, this sucks," Alex mutters, staring off into the distance. "What am I to do, Alex?" She asks tiredly as Alex shrugs. "You've already made your mind.. I'll write only if you write too," She shakes her head, "I presumed that was a given?" Then she's being wrapped in the other girl's arms. "I'm so sorry I have to leave you here. I'm sorry life's so cruel." She rests her head in the crook of Alex's neck, "It'll have to get better sometime, I suppose."
Alex pulls away, feverishly wiping at her eyes. This is the second time Kara's ever seen the girl cry. The first time was when Maggie refused to fight for their relationship and allowed her family to move her away. The next now, during their tragic goodbye. "Promise me you'll run as soon as you can. You'll come find me in California, where you can live as you should already be living." She's been making a lot of promises lately. And if she's being honest, she doesn't see herself fulfilling them soon.
Nevertheless, she nods with a smile. "I have to go now, Kara. Just remember you'll always have a place with us, alright?" Kara rolls her eyes fondly, "How could I forget?" She's wrapped in another tight hug before Alex pulls away, "You'll always be my little sister, cool?" She stands straighter giving her a salute, "You're such a nerd." Alex replies with a laugh. "Bye, Alex." She squeezes her hand before unreluctantly letting go, "Later, Kara."
And she watches her walk down the street to her now old home until she's out of sight.
Only then is when she allowed herself to crumble to the ground in a fit of sobs. Her father's dead and her sister is now gone, leaving to a place hours away. A place Kara longs to be.
The world is cruel indeed.
She's nearly sixteen when Clark breaks, and he decides to move his family to America to live on a farm. The news is shocking to both Kara and their mother, and she can't help but resent him for taking the selfish opportunity of leaving and abandoning his family. He drives over to their house to announce his departure on his way to the airport. Kara ignores his being, refusing to talk to him, locking herself in her room with her necklace.
The only thing that gets her through the day nowadays. She often wonders what does that for her mother or if she's just as strong as everyone says she is. It's hard to imagine someone as intimidating once you've seen them cry, she thinks. She stays there until she hears his car drive off and leaves to comfort her mother. That's all she seems to be doing these days anyway.
She walks down the stairs slowly, sprinting when her mother's knees give out at the door. She allows herself to drop with the woman, taking most of the impact. Quickly she wraps an arm around her mother's shoulder in an attempt to comfort her after the loss of a son. "You won't leave me. Kara, will you? I don't believe I can handle any more loss." And in a flash, all of Kara's dreams of fleeing Argo collapse.
Leaving her with soon-to-be broken promises to her late father and sister. How could she ever dream of going anywhere her mother isn't, now? How could she dream of ever being so selfish, she wonders as she holds the trembling woman. And she wants to scream because if Clark and her father were still here, she would've never asked this of her. She wouldn't ask Kara anything at all.
Nevertheless, Kara shakes her head, lifts her mom, and guides her to her room.
And then, like some twisted joke, there were two.