Chapter Text
Lena stared off out the window as the seemingly never-ending meeting droned on. Lately, she had increasingly been on autopilot, it was the only way that she could make it through the day-to-day grind. She had never wanted to be CEO in the first place and was more than happy to spend the rest of her days in the lab researching and inventing. But, once again, being a Luthor got in the way of that. Since Lex and Lillian had gotten themselves thrown into the hoosegow—Jack’s words, not hers—Lena quickly became the majority shareholder of Luthor Corp and subsequently its new CEO. The initial shift had been an interesting experience. Suddenly she had been thrust into the spotlight and her voice was the only voice that mattered. It had been a baptism by fire but Lena had risen to the challenge despite the inner voice—that sounded an awful lot like Lillian—telling her that she would never quite measure up to the task. She had done her best to shut out that voice and then proceeded to single-handedly turn around the entire company and distance it and herself away from her family. L-Corp was hers. It wasn’t marred by the rather lengthy list of white collar crimes that Lex and Lillian had been accused and rightfully convicted of. But seven years on she found herself weary of mind and body and longing to return to her laboratory roots. She missed the rush of finally having a breakthrough after weeks or even months of being stumped. She missed the creativity and complex problem solving. As the CEO she barely had a moment to sneak away to even pay a visit to the R&D department.
The general malaise that her job had caused her had now started to bleed into not only her personal life, but her life in total. Her eyes stared blankly at the skyscrapers around her own building. Everything seemed to be in shades of gray and—though she didn’t know how it was possible exactly—everything seemed…two dimensional. Nothing seemed real and she felt like she was just going through the motions as the constant flow of the river of time dragged her helplessly through her life.
“Lena?”
Lena snapped out of her staring contest with the abyss and spun her chair back around to the table. Dozens of pairs of eyes were looking at her including those of the presenter: Andrea Rojas.
Lena took a deep breath and sighed. “No.” she said simply.
A shocked Andrea moved to speak but was interrupted.
“But they have had negative growth for the last five quarters!” exploded a board member. “Walsh Technologies has been an anchor dragging down L-Corp for far too long!”
Lena narrowed her eyes at him. “To be perfectly clear I only allowed this meeting to happen to placate those that had been foaming at the mouth over the prospect of increasing their own portfolios. But I have never wanted, nor will I ever want, to sell Walsh Technologies.” she looked at Andrea. “I’m sure that it would have been in good hands with Obsidian North but when I saw in your proposal that you would be working on a joint venture with Lord Industries my already firm declination immediately became ironclad. I’m disappointed in you, Andrea, you know what happened between my brother and Maxwell Lord. The moment you as much as thought about accepting Lord’s proposal the less than one percent chance you had at acquiring any piece Walsh Technologies had been rendered null and void instantaneously.”
Several pairs of angry eyes pinned Lena but she couldn’t care less.
“And it’s not like any of you have any say to begin with.” Lena shot the look back. “Walsh Technologies is a private subsidiary of L-Corp, of which I am the sole proprietor.” she looked back at Andrea. “So while I appreciate your thorough presentation and proposal, Ms. Rojas, I’m afraid we won’t be pursuing anything further with Obsidian North. I thank you for your time.”
With that she got up and went back to her office. The only reason why she truly had allowed this meeting had nothing to do with any of the board members or even any shareholders, it was purely to gather information. Lena had had a hunch that since several of her father’s older patents were about to run out Maxwell Lord was looking to capitalize on the Walsh name and history that came with it. Lionel had gotten his start in life with Walsh Technologies before building the Luthor Corp empire from the ground up. But that wasn’t the only reason why Lena wouldn’t give it up. There was a rather…personal…one as well. She sat down at her desk and pinched the bridge of her nose, feeling a migraine coming on. The sound of very deliberate clicking heels made her internally roll her eyes.
And here it comes. Her back was instantly ramrod straight as she squared her shoulders.
“What the hell, Lena?” said Andrea as she stormed into the office, closing the door behind her.
“I already told you, Andrea, it’s not going to happen.” Lena sighed in frustration. “I might have considered selling you part of the company and working together but the moment you struck whatever deal you did with Lord is the moment you lost any chance.”
Andrea crossed her arms. “Look, I know you still think that he stole your design—”
“Oh my god.” Lena laughed mirthlessly and rolled her eyes. “And here we go again…” her eyes narrowed dangerously. “Just because I was never able to find concrete proof that it was him doesn’t mean it wasn’t. My CAD drawings were found on Lord Industries’ internal servers!”
“For all we know it could have been Lex!” defended Andrea.
“Oh, please.” spat Lena. “You and I know that my brother is the poster child for corporate corruption but what motive would he have giving his ex-business partner designs to a machine that would make him millions if not more?”
“Lex has done many questionable things over the years.” Andrea tried one last time.
Lena let out an indignant laugh. “You want to know why it never worked out between us? This. Exactly this. For whatever reason you never seemed to take my side.” Lena held up a hand as Andrea moved to speak. “And I know, I know. You have your own company to run. And I don’t envy the mess that your father left, believe me. I know my fair share of family fuck-ups. But even outside of this corporate hell world you never did.”
Andrea’s shoulders slumped and she dropped her arms. “I’m sorry. My father left a mess and I was looking for a quick way out. Max had an offer and made it hard to refuse.”
“What exactly did he offer you?”
“Seventy percent.”
Lena’s eyebrows were up to her hairline. “Of profits?”
“Yes.” said Andrea. “If Obsidian were to acquire Walsh Technologies then Lord Industries would do a 70/30 split. Which would be enough to cover Obsidian’s recent losses and then some.”
“That’s absurd!” scoffed Lena. “There’s no way in hell Max would pour money into something only to barely recoup losses, if any gains were made in the first place. There has to be more to it.”
Andrea shook her head. “Nope. He just wanted to integrate the medical imaging equipment lines with his own.”
“Ah.” Lena nodded in realization. “And there it is.” She shook her head. “He was going to use you, Andrea. The patent on my father’s machines is almost up, which means he could start producing Walsh’s as his own. He was only going to use the name and bide his time then cut his losses and probably sell off his half to someone else or sell it back to you, leaving Obsidian holding the bag when Walsh Technologies’ flagships become a thing of the past compared to whatever he was planning on rolling out afterwards.”
Andrea shrugged defeatedly. “I had to try something, Lena. If I can’t get things turned around fast enough there’s going to be massive layoffs. I don’t want that on my conscience in addition to everything that my father did.”
“I know the feeling.” Lena empathized. “But my answer still remains. I will not sell Walsh Technologies to you because I was never looking in the first place, but especially since Lord’s name is attached to the offer.”
“I understand.” Andrea bowed her head and was silent a moment. “Do you think we could do dinner some time? I really would like to talk about what happened. You know…with us.”
Lena felt the tears threatening to build up in her eyes and felt her stomach clench. She shoved everything down as she cleared her throat.
“I think we’ve said everything there is to be said.” she said pointedly.
Andrea saw the look in her eye and backed down. “Okay. Thanks for the meeting…I guess. Goodbye, Lena.”
Andrea gave her one last look that seemed to be guilt twisted with regret before quietly opening the door and leaving. The moment the door shut Lena let out a breath she didn’t even know she was holding and fell back into her chair. She spun back around to stare blankly out at the National City skyline. The warm May sun was shining brightly in a clear blue sky but all Lena could see was gray. Her stomach was churning with raw emotions that she desperately tried to shove down. She closed her eyes tightly and one by one put everything back into their little boxes. The pieces of her heart that she had taped back together after Andrea. The scars and wounds that Lillian and Lex had left and that would never properly heal. The disdain for her current career. The aching loneliness and emptiness that was her life.
The tears dried up and she opened her eyes again.
In the beginning it had been enough for her to know that she was doing some good in the world with the changes that she brought to L-Corp, but as the constant pressure and stress of her unwanted and forced position wore her down, it was no longer enough to keep her going. She still working just as hard, but as an empty husk fulfilling its required duties to keep the massive machine going because if she failed, if L-Corp failed, not only would it rain hellfire down on her head whenever Lillian and Lex got out of prison, but she would be finished. Tens of thousands of people would lose their jobs and in their eyes, as well as the eyes of the public, she would just be another hated Luthor, she would truly lose herself. But maybe the abyss that would open up and swallow her wouldn’t be all that bad, at least it would induce the ultimate emotional shut-down that would cause a permanent numbness. If she was numb then maybe she would be able to handle being alone for the rest of her life. Sure, she could have any number of trysts with women that were more than willing to be her bedfellow even if it is only for one night, and there had been several such nights after her disastrous breakup with Andrea, but any more it wasn’t worth it. It was always about her name or her money. Lena’s increasing emotional numbness had also been spreading to other parts of herself and leaving a craving that could not be satisfied a hundred times over by the most beautiful and talented one night stand. It couldn’t be satisfied because the craving was love and she wasn’t worthy of it. She was a Luthor, and that’s how Luthors were raised. Desperately clamoring for any scrap of any emotion that wasn’t disappointment or eternally devastating indifference. Whatever love she had within herself had been iced out over the years until it was harder than stone.
A knock at her door roused Lena from her dark thoughts. She turned to see a timid Sam stepping in.
“Hey.” she said softly. “I heard about the meeting with Andrea.”
Lena merely sighed tiredly in response.
“That bad, huh?” said Sam as she sat down across from her.
Lena picked at her fingers. “It’s been three years and when I see her I still feel so…angry. Hurt. Empty.” she shook her head. “Worthless.”
Sam gave her a sympathetic look. “At least you got to publicly shoot her down. Jess read me the meeting notes. I bet that felt good.”
Lena cracked a small sly grin. “That it did. God. She knew what she was getting into with him and she still thought she had a chance.”
Sam grinned. “How you two made it last as long as you did, given both of your tendencies to be bull-headed, I’ll never know. No offence.”
“None taken.” said Lena. “You’re right. Looking back it was impressive that we lasted even two years.” she shrugged. “What can I say? It was a boarding school crush dream come true. Despite twenty-seven year old Lena’s logic, horny sixteen year old inner Lena won out.”
She and Sam both chuckled. Lena sobered.
“What am I doing here, Sam?”
Sam crossed her legs and leaned back comfortably in her chair. “You know, I’ve been asking myself that lately. You haven’t been you, Lena.”
“Understatement.” quipped Lena.
“I’m serious.” said Sam. “Even when you do come out with Jack and I, you seem like you’re, I don’t know…phoning it in? You might be with us but you’re not exactly present. If that makes sense.”
“It does.” Lena nodded. “I just miss the way things were before Lex and Lillian had to go and fuck everything up. I miss my lab. I miss my research. I miss feeling like I was actually making a difference in the world instead of constantly worrying about the bottom line and answering to the board or shareholders and worrying about the insane amount of people that I keep gainfully employed.”
“I know.” said Sam gently. “But Jack and I have also had this discussion with you many times over. You could—”
“I can’t, Sam.” Lena interrupted. “I can’t do that to you. Either of you. This isn’t your burden.”
“Lena.” Sam sighed empathetically. “We wouldn’t have brought it up if we didn’t want to do it. It would allow you to get back into the lab.” she arched a playful eyebrow. “Besides. With you back in the lab churning out new invention after new invention after new breakthrough, you wouldn’t have to worry about the bottom line or employment as you will be singlehandedly responsible for it.”
Lena sighed. “I will consider it. And as appealing as your offer sounds, I just…can’t. Not yet. I don’t know how to explain it.”
“So…does that mean you’re actually considering our offer?” queried Sam.
“Thought about? Yes. Actively considering? No.”
“Ah. But you’ve at least thought about it.” smiled Sam. “I’ll take that as a win. For now.”
Lena playfully rolled her eyes.
“Jack will want to go out tonight to celebrate you royally slamming Andrea’s proposal today.”
“Not tonight. This week has been particularly stressful because of it and I plan on spending my evening soaking in a hot tub and drowning my sorrows in a very expensive bottle of red and then promptly passing out in an alcohol and dark chocolate-induced coma.” Lena said wryly. “Maybe sneak a greasy double bacon cheeseburger and a horribly cheesy rom-com in there too. I’m thinking…early 2000s.”
Sam thought a moment. “That actually sounds like a nice night in. Maybe I should send Ruby over to a friend’s tonight.” she chuckled. “But seriously, are you going to be okay?”
Lena smiled meekly. “As okay as I usually am.”
Sam looked at her thoughtfully. “I know that this is a sensitive subject, but have you thought about dating again? Get some excitement in your life?”
Lena shook her head. “No. I just…I’m just not in the right headspace for it right now. And no. it doesn’t have anything to do with Andrea. I don’t know. Sometimes I feel like maybe I’m just meant to be alone.”
Sam leaned forward and reached out and took Lena’s hand in her own. “Don’t say that. You deserve happiness, Lena. You know that, right?”
“Theoretically? Yes. Practically? I’m not sure.” admitted Lena.
“Oh, sweetie.” Sam frowned. “I think we need to have another girl’s night. Soon?”
“Soon.” echoed Lena with a small smile.
Sam sighed before patting her hand and releasing it. “Well, I need to get going. Ruby is actually having a sleepover tonight with two of her friends so I need to do a little pre-gaming myself.”
Lena let out a snort of laughter.
“I’m serious, Luthor.” said Sam. “Have you ever had to deal with three twelve year olds hopped up on sugar and caffeine? Shit gets crazy. Come here.”
Sam gestured for Lena to stand up, so she did and Sam wrapped her in a bear hug.
“Seriously, girl, we’ve got to get you figured out. Somehow.”
“I don’t know if that’s possible.” said Lena softly.
* * *
Her mouth felt like sandpaper and her head felt like it was going to explode. Lena cracked a bleary eye and immediately regretted it as the morning sunlight instantly blinded her. She rolled over and away from the windows and fumbled blindly for her phone on the bedside table.
9:17.
Pretty impressive considering she usually is incapable of sleeping past six even on the weekends. She groaned and pulled the blankets up higher and buried herself further in the cocoon of warmth, deliberately ignoring her screaming bladder for a few seconds longer. Eventually physiology won out and she staggered out of bed, the pounding in her head intensifying and making her dizzy as her own pulse drummed in her ears. Memories of last night were slowly coming back to her.
She had done exactly what she had told Sam she would do. It had started with her favorite guilty pleasure meal: a double bacon cheeseburger from Big Belly Burger. From there she proceeded to inelegantly wash it down with half a bottle of rather expensive cabernet sauvignon. She faintly remembered hearing Lillian’s voice scolding her for wasting such a complex bouquet on “common slop”. The voice was slowly drowned out as the alcohol warmed her veins. She finished off the night by cleaning out a box of dark chocolates made by National City’s premier chocolatier. Lena grabbed her phone as she trudged out of the bathroom and into her kitchen. There had been a fancy bath that she had somehow managed to draw for herself and some exploratory hands that had resulted in the typical pattern of somewhat working her up but ultimately failing in the end.
There were a litany of texts from both Sam and Jack checking in on her throughout the night. Sam had also sent her updates from the sleepover which apparently had taken a turn for the dramatic when a boy from Ruby’s class “liked” one of her TikToks. Whatever that meant. Jack had tried to entice her to join him for a night out by sending pictures of himself with various attractive women and telling her “could be you, babe”. She remembered rolling her eyes when his last text mentioned something about seeing a pair of arms as thick as pythons and proudly announcing that he was returning back to men.
As Lena continued to look through her phone a new email came through.
“Grant Realty?” she wondered aloud.
She clicked on the email.
Miss Luthor,
Thank you for your interest in the property located at 12135 Schlatter Road, Midvale, Indiana. I will be in the office today and would be more than happy to show it to you. Any time after noon works.
Snapper Carr, Commercial Realtor, Grant Realty
Midvale?!
Lena’s eyes widened in surprise and slight horror as the missing pieces of her night came roaring back.
Her first mistake was the amount of wine that she had decided to ingest. Her second, watching Under the Tuscan Sun. The movie had left her feeling horribly alone as well as wanting to just do something spur of the moment for herself for once in her life. There had been her tablet and lots of scrolling through real-estate porn. She blamed Diane Lane for giving her the idea that a random small town and a vineyard—read: farmland—was just the thing she needed to turn her life around. Cue Midvale, Indiana and one hundred acres of partially wooded farmland for sale. How Lena was ever able to type out an email and not sound totally sloshed was beyond her, but somehow she did it and had a response only eight hours later. Part of her wanted to ignore the email and pretend that this all never happened. But another part, a very small and very curious part, was telling her that it wouldn’t hurt to just…check it out. If anything it would get her out of her penthouse and maybe even out of her own head for a bit. The hour and a half drive would also be a welcome change from her usual chauffeured drive to and from work every day.
Fuck it. Nothing would be lost from just getting out of the city for most of the day.
She quickly typed a response email requesting a three o’clock meeting and hit send. It would give her more than enough time to recover enough from last night. As she went about making herself some coffee her phone chimed with another email.
Perfect. Sounds great. I look forward to meeting you. Attached are the directions and some more information about the property.
Lena clicked on the attachments and started reading through the PDF. Much to her surprise there was a full report on soil samples and terrain composition. No doubt something that someone who would potentially want to farm the land would want to know about. Though she had no reason to care Lena still found it fascinating. She had never outright bought land before only buildings. There was also information that seemed to be aimed at housing developers as well. Considering the size of the property it wouldn’t be uncommon for a developer looking to create a new neighborhood and housing that they could sell at a premium considering the location, as well as cramming as many houses in there as they could.
After getting a shower her stomach had settled down enough that she could eat. She pulled up Midvale and decided to check out the place while munching on some avocado toast with scrambled eggs.
Population: 1200.
Small town indeed. The more she kept researching the more foreign it seemed compared to the city. A rather large portion of the population, much larger than she expected, was Amish. That discovery in and of itself sent her down a whole other research tangent. All in all Midvale didn’t seem too different than typical small town America, and having never been anywhere that could be remotely considered as such, Lena found it rather intriguing. After inevitably declining to actually by the land she figured she could at least walk around the town and get a glimpse of what life outside of a major city was like. Something told her that the mansion that she grew up in just on the outskirts of Metropolis was nothing like what she was about to see.
When the time finally came to leave Lena couldn’t help but feel a little…nervous? Excited? Whatever it was she was just glad for the change. She had opted out of wearing her CEO attire but had struggled with deciding what to wear. What does one wear when one doesn’t want to obviously stand out? She had dug into her massive closet and pulled out a light green dress. It was sleeveless but had a conservative neckline and was one of her more loose dresses that didn’t cling to her in all the right places. Forgoing her typical tortuous high heels she had found a pair of shorter wedges that thankfully went well with the dress. Her hair was down with a soft side part and her makeup was light and natural, there was no need for her usual fierce red today.
Once she had gotten out on the interstate she had forgotten why she had stopped driving as much. She had set up her phone to alert her for speed traps and then, with a wicked smile, let her poor supercharged Mustang stretch its legs for once. Cars had never really been her thing but that was one thing Lena could thank Andrea for opening her up to. She may have gotten a little too interested in the engineering aspects and had tested out her upgrades at the National City NASCAR track once or twice in years previous. Thankfully since it was the middle of a Saturday, once she got about thirty miles outside of the city there had been little to no traffic and she let the sleek black machine rip and floored it to whatever awaited her in the north.
Lena had let her mind wander a bit during the long drive. Lillian would probably have a heart attack if she knew that Lena was even entertaining such a ridiculous idea, let alone actually driving there herself. The distance alone would have been enough for her or Lex to take a small private plane or even a helicopter. Lena had taken it a step further and allowed herself to indulge in the fantasy of buying the land and building a house. She imagined a library filled with floor to ceiling bookshelves that required a ladder, and an open fireplace with a large overstuffed chair where she could curl up with a book and read for as long as she wanted. Maybe she would even have a vegetable garden. Fresh tomatoes and herbs. She had enough space that she could even have a pool or a private pond. Sam, Ruby, and Jack could come up and visit during the summers and swim. There would have to be a rather large addition to the house that would be connected by a hallway or walkway of sorts, separate but still connected. There she could have an office and even possibly her own private lab where she could tinker away at new projects. Lena sighed. As great as it all sounded in theory, it still felt like it was missing something, or rather, someone. Even in her own fantasy Lena couldn’t escape her loneliness. Just herself and a big empty house. Just like her childhood.
The voice from her GPS broke Lena out of her fantasy. It was then that she realized that she realized she was so not in the city anymore. There was nothing around for miles but open fields and patches of woods with houses here and there. It felt like she was in another world. Eventually, after getting off of the interstate and taking a bunch of roads that were named simply by number and direction (County Road 200 North, 320 South, and so on) she finally saw the sign for Midvale. The town had looked almost exactly as it had online. Downtown was made of up small shops and storefronts. In the center was a small municipal building that read: Town Council. There was a grand total of five parking spaces in the lot and a strange looking post and bar of sorts. But what really caught her eye was the horse and carriage…wait, that’s wrong…buggy. Horse and buggy, that’s what it’s called. What really caught her eye was the horse and buggy sitting in front of her waiting at the red light. Her brain was having trouble reconciling seeing something so pre-industrial surrounded by a modern world. Her brain further broke when the buggy turned and she saw a young Amish girl looking down at a cell phone while her boyfriend(?) drove the buggy. The sound of the horse’s shoes on the pavement was another wonder. Lena had taken a carriage ride once through Central Park but that had not prepared her for what she had just witnessed. Lena didn’t have much time to process everything as her GPS took her outside of town and further into what she assumed were corn fields. About five minutes outside of Midvale she finally turned into a makeshift drive. There was already a white SUV waiting for her and a woman got out as she pulled in.
There was no way in hell that that woman was Snapper Carr.
The woman carried herself with the utmost importance and an air of superiority. Her blonde hair was perfectly coifed without a single strand out of place. Her black dress and heels were very obviously designer. She smiled widely as Lena got out of her car.
“Miss Luthor! Hello!” she stuck out her hand. “Cat Grant, Grant Realty.”
Lena shook her hand. “Hi. I’m sorry if I look surprised. I was expecting to meet someone named Snapper Carr.”
Cat waved her off. “Oh, don’t worry about him. It was his Saturday to work, that’s why he responded. Usually he deals with the commercial aspect. Not exactly personable. No, no. When he told me someone was interested in this property after only being posted for twenty-four hours I was intrigued. Then when I found out that it was from the official business email of Lena Luthor from L-Corp, well—“ Cat’s eyes sparkled with the potential of a huge deal, “—naturally I had to take care of this showing myself.”
“I see.” said Lena.
Cat gestured widely to the surrounding land. “One hundred acres of prime farmland. Approximately fifty-five acres are wooded. Perfect for developing or a cozy country getaway.” She looked back at Lena. “From one business woman to another, there is tremendous potential here.”
Lena didn’t know exactly what she was looking at. The land was essentially flat with a few hills in the distance and a line of dense woods. She eyed Cat from behind her sunglasses and regarded her as someone that was a straight shooter.
“Listen, I’m going to be perfectly honest, I sent that email when I wasn’t in a right headspace. I have literally no idea what I’m doing out here.” she admitted.
Cat looked her over and Lena suddenly felt like she was under Lillian’s searching gaze, as if she was trying to find fault.
“Miss Luthor, you strike me as a woman that knows what she wants.” said Cat after a moment. “There was a reason why you sent that inquiry. Just as there is a reason why you drove over a hundred miles out here to essentially the middle of nowhere. Now, I know that you are quite intelligent, yes, based off of just a cursory Google search I can see your numerous credentials, therefore I know you possess at least a sliver of self-awareness. So you tell me, Miss Luthor, what are you even doing here?”
Lena was taken aback for a moment. Cat certainly had a commanding presence and didn’t seem to care who she was addressing nor the manner. It was almost as if the woman thought she herself was incapable of doing any wrong. It gave Lena pause. She debated with herself for a moment before ultimately surrendering. It’s not like she would see Cat Grant again even if she declined the purchase.
“I’m looking to introduce some change into my life.” Lena sighed as she looked at the otherwise empty land. “I could blame an entire bottle of wine and a 2008 rom-com for my decision to even send that email.” she sighed. “But the movie is over and I’m sober, so the only reason I’m here is because maybe this could possibly be the change I need.”
“Mm.” hummed Cat thoughtfully. “Change is inevitable. But it’s nice when we are able to control it.”
Lena laughed mirthlessly. “Don’t even get me started on control issues.” she shook her head. “If I were to purchase this land I wouldn’t even know where to begin. I’ve never built anything before. Purchased a near billion dollar skyscraper for business purposes? Yes. Penthouse? Yes. Build a house, from scratch no less?” she trailed off.
Cat seemingly produced a business card from nowhere and handed it over to her.
J’onzz Homes, LLC
“If you’re looking for a place to start I would suggest there. It’s a family-run business. Excellent quality homes. Their architect can work wonders for custom home design and don’t even get me started on the carpenter. She’s well on her way to becoming a master craftsman. The kitchen cabinets that she built for my kitchen remodel are amazing. Not to mention the entire custom bedroom suite.” Cat gushed. “Worth every penny.”
Lena stared at the card for a moment. There was no way she was going to do this. No way. There was literally no reason on earth as to why she should do this. She had a perfectly acceptable top floor penthouse overlooking all of National City that the wealthiest of the city’s citizens would kill each other for. She could just take a vacation or have an extended spa weekend with Sam. This was crazy. She was insane. Lena looked over at Cat.
“Do you want cash or will a check be fine?”
Chapter Text
"You did what?" Sam gaped from across the table.
"It's not that big of a deal." Lena tried pathetically to defend herself. "Really. People make real-estate investments all the time. It's a smart way to make your money work for you."
"Except when you're sinking that money into a house you will hardly, if ever, use." said Jack.
Lena didn't have the emotional stamina at the moment to try and argue with him. She hadn't even wanted to do dinner in the first place but Sam had insisted on celebrating her minor victory over Andrea. But Lena supposed it was inevitable. She needed to talk with Sam about Thursday anyway.
"Well, I bought it and I already have a meeting with the builder on Thursday. So it's happening." She said definitively as she took a drink of her wine. "Sam I'm going to need you to take over for me. I have no idea how long it will take. Even after spending all day yesterday looking at different house designs it has become quite clear that I have no idea what I've gotten myself into. So you two can spare me the lecture."
Sam and Jack looked at each other then back at her.
"So you're really doing this then?" said Sam.
"Yep." Lena said into her wine glass as she swirled it.
"If it's really what you want to do it's not like us saying anything could stop it." said Jack. "That being said...can I have a pool?"
"What?" said Lena.
"Well obviously if you have that much land you're going to want to do something with it. Might as well make it something fun so that I have a reason to drag my ass out there and not be bored to tears."
Lena rolled her eyes at him. "It's not that boring out there. At least, I don’t think it is? I don’t know. I'm sure if we looked around the town would have something to offer. It was very…small town Americana."
Jack snorted a scoff. "I highly doubt that. Though I wouldn't mind at least visiting once." he leaned in with a gleam in his eye. "I've heard that out in the country it's more than just the horses that are—"
"Don't!" Lena practically shouted as she interrupted him. "Don't. I love you, Jack. But no."
Sam laughed. “So what exactly is this place going to be? A vacation home?”
Lena shrugged. “I don’t know. The realtor said something about a ‘cozy country getaway’. And that honestly sounds like what I need. To just…get away. Even if it’s only on the weekends.” she looked down at her half-eaten dessert. “I just need…change.” she looked between her two friends. “You know I love you both dearly but don’t you ever get tired of everything? It doesn’t matter what bar or club we go to they’re all the same. The people are all the same. I just…” Lena thought a moment. “I feel like I’ve lost myself since taking over L-Corp. Everything is just so…fake. Not just in a superficial sense. I don’t know. I guess…I guess I just want to know that there’s a real world out there and that maybe…maybe by being out there I might be able to find myself again. Does that make sense?”
Jack and Sam were suddenly stone-cold sober.
“Lena…” Jack softened and reached across the table. “Why didn’t you tell us that you were feeling like this? I thought that you were just still hung up on Andrea or had—god forbid—hooked up with Veronica again. I’m so sorry for my behavior.”
Lena bit back tears and forced a small smile. “You’re fine, Jack. It’s not like I have the greatest track record with opening up to the two of you.” she shook her head. “There are times where I wonder why you still even put up with me.”
Sam scooted her chair around the table and pulled Lena into a side hug. “Sweetie, we put up with you because we love you. Truly.”
“She’s right.” said Jack as he scooted around and hugged her from the other side. “Like it or not you’re stuck with us to the end.”
Tears welled up in Lena’s eyes but she refused to let them fall. She put her hands on theirs and held them.
“I don’t know what I would do if I didn’t have you guys.”
“…probably conquering the world.” joked Jack.
Lena rolled her eyes. “Consumed by my family’s seemingly hereditary megalomania?”
“No.” assured Sam. “Ignore him. We love you and we know you love us. That’s all we need.”
They broke their group hug and moved their seats back.
“Now. About Thursday.” said Sam. “You really have no design ideas?”
“Not a one.” replied Lena.
* * *
Lena sat staring at her computer screen. It was strange. As much of an emotional rollercoaster that this whole ordeal was causing a small part of her was actually glad for it. It had proved her wrong, she wasn’t completely numb to life. There may be a sliver of hope for her after all. Since she had a couple of days before her appointment, she had spent her evenings relaxed on her couch and gathering different ideas for her house. To her surprise it was fairly overwhelming despite input from Sam and Jack. She had no idea of the sheer number of different minutia that could be added or removed or changed and how much of a difference it made in the overall appearance. There had been a two hour long rabbit hole of just window shutters alone. The more she looked into home design the more she was convinced that she really didn’t have an external style. The Luthor mansion had been Roman-esque with tall decorative columns, statues, and carved facades. Definitely something that would be out of place out in the countryside and definitely something she was not keen on replicating in the first place. The interior was easier. She preferred the modern, sleek, slightly industrial aesthetic. Stainless steel, white granite, geometric lines, clean and no clutter.
There were just too many styles to choose from.
Tudor.
Farmhouse.
Ranch.
Cape Cod.
Colonial.
Contemporary.
Industrial.
Brutalism.
Shipping containers.
Tiny homes.
Craftsman.
French Country.
Mediterranean.
Victorian.
Fucking Greek Revival—which honestly looked too much like the Luthor mansion for comfort.
There were even goddamn fucking barns and warehouses converted into houses.
Each style had aspects that she liked but nothing outright grabbed her attention and it only served to grow her frustration and apprehension. There was a small comfort, however, when she pulled up J’onzz Homes’ website she saw that not only the impressive custom designs of their architect, but that they had an interior designer and design consultant on staff as well.
Perfect.
As she went back to her home design searches it became increasingly obvious that this was not going to be solved in one consultation in one day. Lena rubbed her temples. If that was the case she might as well just take a week off and just bury herself in research until she figured everything out. She blew out a breath and opened a new tab and started looking for hotels nearby.
Nothing. Because of course there’s nothing within a thirty minute radius. Lena knew that an hour and a half commute twice a day for a week really wouldn’t be anything in the long run, but it still felt a little overwhelming. So she did the unthinkable—well unthinkable to the likes of Lillian—and pulled up Airbnb. By some miracle there were two different options. One looked like someone’s basement, albeit a very nice one that had been converted into a small apartment, and then what looked like an actual studio apartment. She clicked on the studio and did a little digging. There was a familiar-looking name attached to it.
THIS UNIT IS PROFESSIONALLY MANAGED BY GRANT REALTY.
Because of course it is.
Lena pulled up Grant Realty and found the apartment listed for rent as well. She made a note of both the Airbnb and realty listing and then closed her laptop.
* * *
Thursday had finally come and by nine o’clock on the dot Lena found herself walking into the office of J’onzz Homes, LLC. It was larger than she had expected. A smiling woman at the front desk immediately greeted her.
“Good morning!” she chirped. “You must be our 9:00 consult!”
Lena was slightly taken aback by the friendliness and resorted to putting on her CEO front.
“Yes I am.” she smiled back. “Lena Luthor.”
She half-expected the woman to have the typical reaction of hearing the Luthor name but it never came.
“Welcome, Miss Luthor. I’m M’gann, J’onn’s wife.” M’gann shook her hand.
Lena recognized the name and noted a slight accent, it was similar to what she had heard before in Chicago or Detroit and something else. “Oh, yes. Yes. We spoke on the phone, didn’t we?”
“That we did.”
“So you and your husband run the business?”
“Yes, but don’t let him kid you, though. He might be ‘the boss’ but I run things around here.” she gave Lena a wink. “Can I get you anything? I just brewed a fresh pot of coffee.”
Not wanting to seem rude Lena nodded. “Sure. Thank you.”
“Cream or sugar?”
“None, thanks. I take it black.”
“Ah, woman after my own heart.” M’gann slipped into a small break room.
Lena looked around. There was a long hallway off to the right from the front door that had a few offices branching off of it. The office furniture was not what she expected though. It was solid, sturdy, and definitely not something picked out of an office supply catalogue. The chair that she sat in was surprisingly comfortable despite not having a cushion of any sort. The stain was deep and even and the lacquer was glossy and smooth.
“Ah, I see you’ve discovered our custom furniture.” M’gann’s sudden reappearance caught her off-guard.
“The quality is amazing.” remarked Lena as she took her coffee.
“That would be the handiwork of one of our employees.” said M’gann. “She does all sorts of custom stuff.”
“That’s right. That realtor, Cat Grant, she told me that you had quite the talented carpenter.” said Lena.
“That we do.” agreed M’gann, she gestured down the hall. “J’onn is ready if you are.”
Lena stood up and followed her down the hall to a moderately sized office. J’onn was sitting at his desk but promptly stood up the moment Lena came in.
“Miss Luthor. Thank you for choosing J’onzz Homes.” he smiled warmly and shook her hand, he had the same interesting accent, slight, but there. “We’re glad to have you.”
“Thanks.” smiled Lena as she sat down in the chair across from him. “I was just admiring you custom office furniture. I’m thinking of getting something for my own office.”
J’onn chuckled warmly. “That would be Kara’s work. Brilliant kid. Apprenticed her myself. Framing, general carpentry, woodworking, she does it all. Always busy and always high quality. I give her a few more years and she’ll be a master craftsman for sure.”
Lena raised her eyebrows. “Everyone seems to be singing her praises. I think I need to meet this Wonder Woman.”
“Supergirl.” interjected J’onn.
“Excuse me?”
He laughed. “Supergirl. That’s her nickname. Though I’d suppose that Wonder Woman would be a close second.” he leaned on his elbows. “Now, from what my wife tells me this is your first time building a home.”
“Yes.” said Lena. “And I’m just going to put it out there now that I have no clue what I’m doing.”
J’onn chuckled warmly again. “And that’s why we’re here. I can show you several base models that we offer and then you can meet with our genius architect, Querl. He has an uncanny ability to visualize and conceptualize in his head and transfer it to paper. Then, if you need additional help Nia, our interior designer, will steer you in the right direction.”
Lena relaxed her shoulders some. “You’ve just got all the bases covered, don’t you?”
“That we do, ma’am.”
J’onn showed her all of their base home models and talked at length about the different additions and options that they offered. While they were all impressive, none of them were quite what she was looking for, though she still didn’t even know what exactly that was. They then moved on to the more expensive options: the fully custom homes. While Lena hadn’t been explicit with him, she had more or less made it clear that a budget wasn’t of concern to her. As they perused the portfolio an aesthetic finally caught her attention.
Partial stone face walls, large exposed beams, large windows to let in copious amounts of sunlight. It looked like a hybrid between a modern style farmhouse and something that she had seen when skiing in Colorado; mountain style, J’onn had called it. It looked warm and cozy yet expansive and breezy. Summer and winter. It was perfect. Lena’s already bright smile brightened even further when J’onn heaped praise on her choice. He seemed genuine about it and not just happy to be getting a fat check, something Lena was not used to. Lena glanced at the clock on the wall. It was only 10:50. She couldn’t believe it. It had felt like it had taken all day to decide. At one point she feared that she would have to leave and just go home with homework. Things continued to flow as J’onn started the paperwork and then took her across the hall into another office.
Querl was a rather interesting fellow. He had a little trouble maintaining eye contact and had a similar ramrod straight sitting posture while at his desk, yet he was somehow at ease being in this manner. His speech pattern and diction were pointed and well-articulated and he was devoid of the same slight accent as his coworkers.
“Welcome, Miss Luthor.” he gestured with a slightly exaggerated flair to the open chair across from his desk. “If you would just give me a moment to look through your paperwork we can then start your new house design.”
He rapidly read through the few papers before setting them down in a perfect pile at the corner of his desk. He grabbed a rather fancy fountain pen and a notepad and made a few notes. His script was incredible. It looked like something that would have been seen on official documents from the turn of the century.
“Now then.” he began. “You have indicated that you are interested in the mountain style of home. But. That you also like aspects of the modern farmhouse as well. Specifically the Krypton- County home we built two years ago. An excellent choice. A brilliant blend of modern and timeless Americana.”
“Thank you, Querl.” said Lena genuinely. “You’ve probably read it but this is the first home I’ve ever built from quite literally the ground up. I had no idea what I even wanted until I saw that picture.”
“It happens more often than people think.” replied Querl. “Oh, and you may call me Brainy. Everyone does. I prefer it, actually. But enough with pleasantries. Tell me, Lena Luthor, what do you think you want?”
The next couple of hours flew by. Using vague details from both her personal and professional life Brainy had been able to put together a masterpiece. Large rooms with an open concept that allowed for flow. Two stories. High vaulted ceilings. A loft on the second floor that overlooked the family room. A large fireplace as the centerpiece. An office that would also be a library. A massive open kitchen with an island. A large open basement for entertainment and a bar. Three bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom—for guests of course. And a master bedroom that had a large walk-in closet and a bathroom that had a large double sink, Jacuzzi bath, and large granite shower with all the works. A moderate front porch. A massive back deck. Jack’s pool. And the pièce de résistance: a guest house attachment that she could convert into a private office and research lab.
The more they designed and talked specifics the more Lena found herself actually getting excited and wholly absorbed in the moment to the point that she had completely forgotten about work. It was almost two by the time M’gann interrupted them. Fortunately, they had just finished.
“Sorry to interrupt, but Nia, our interior designer, is out of the office for the rest of the day.” said M’gann. “But she will be back tomorrow. She said that if you want to make an appointment she’s free all day.”
“If it’s alright I think I’ll be back at nine again tomorrow.” said Lena. “Just with the drive and everything.”
“That’s totally fine.” assured M’gann. “It seems like you have made some significant headway.”
“More than significant.” announced Brainy proudly. “We have ironed out ever last detail and I can get started on the CAD designs and blueprints today.”
Lena’s eyebrows raised. “Really? That fast?”
“Yes. I had feared that your initial lack of direction would cause more, as they say, ‘bumps in the road’, but it would seem that deciding on an exterior style seemed to open the proverbial flood gates.” said Brainy. “However! Thanks to you being of similar engineering mind as myself, we found our ‘flow’ and have agreed upon a finished design. Or, rather, the first draft. Whether or not it is the final is dependent on Miss Luthor agreeing with what I draft together.”
“How long do you think it will take you?” asked Lena.
“I will email you by Monday morning, if not sooner.” replied Brainy with absolute certainty.
Lena looked to M’gann who nodded in agreement.
“So how soon will you guys be able to get started?” she asked M’gann.
“Assuming you give your seal of approval on Monday, and the building permits come through on time, we can start…” M’gann squinted as she recalled the company calendar. “…Tuesday. Two weeks from now.”
Lena’s eyebrows were up again. “June? Really? That soon? By corporate standards that might as well be light speed.”
M’gann chuckled. “It’s only because you lucked out on your timing. J’onn has already been on the phone with the excavation company and the concrete guy. Have you decided where the house will be on the property?”
“Yes.” nodded Lena. “Brainy suggested that it be just in front of the tree line. Big enough for a large back yard but with added privacy from the trees.”
“I can email Tom with the specifics if he is wanting to get things ready.” said Brainy.
M’gann nodded. “As soon as Miss Luthor’s check clears.”
“Ah, yes. Good thing I brought my checkbook and warned my bank this time.” Lena grinned.
By the time Lena had made it back to the interstate everything was moving forward full steam ahead. She knew the check would be cleared by tomorrow then all that was left was to wait on Brainy’s plans and the permits. It was all such a whirlwind that Lena found herself actually daydreaming about it all, her vision even more clear than the first. She saw herself curled up by the fireplace reading a good book, working in her lab, laughing as Jack did a cannonball into the pool and soaking a sunbathing Sam in the process while Ruby jumped in after him. It all seemed so perfect and yet…something was still missing. She wasn’t quite sure what it was but she knew that there was a there, there at least. And that in itself was a comfort because it meant that she was at least self-aware enough to know that her fantasy wasn’t complete. That this fantasy had put her in touch with her emotions enough for her to know that she wanted more. Whatever that was.
She had barely stepped foot inside her place before Sam called her and squeezed every single last detail out of her about how the meeting had gone. It ended with Lena promising to show Sam the plans as soon as Brainy sent them. She had also agreed to cover Friday for her as well, on the condition that later that night the three of them go out to their favorite club and celebrate. Lena knew she wasn’t going to get out of it this time and reluctantly agreed—though she did her best to hide it.
The excitement of the day was still going strong as the day waned so Lena busied herself with all of the work that she had missed. Sam had done quite the job staying on top of things so she was only up until ten instead of midnight. The next morning she woke up early and took her time getting dressed and made herself an actual breakfast instead of a protein bar hastily devoured in the elevator. In the end it ended up being a good thing that she had not only woken up early but left early as what awaited her once she got off the highway was something she had never encountered before: farm equipment. And not just any farm equipment but a tractor, specifically one large enough to take up nearly both lanes of the road. Lena had seen large construction equipment before, but that was in the cramped city with limited space so things needed to be smaller overall. But out in the country with wide open spaces…
She was moving at a grand total of twenty miles an hour and was the fourth car in a line of six behind it. The tires were incredibly tall and skinny and there seemed to be some sort of sprayer on the back that had the arms folded up on the sides. Her delays didn’t end there. Once she got around the tractor she had to play leap frog around three buggies before finally getting to the office ten minutes late. When she walked in the door there was already a young woman waiting for her at the front desk with M’gann.
“Good morning, Miss Luthor.” smiled M’gann.
“Sorry I’m late.” apologized Lena. “I’m still not used to the traffic around here.”
The young woman just laughed. “I know what you mean. But you’ll get used to dodging buggies soon enough. Just watch out for the pony carts though. Those things are wild cards.” she extended her hand. “I’m Nia, by the way. Interior designer extraordinaire.”
Lena shook her hand. “Lena. I thought tractors that took up most of the road were bad enough. What’s a pony cart?”
“It’s like a mini buggy.” explained Nia. “Kids mostly drive them or women just making a quick trip to the store. They’re about the size of a gold cart and are pulled by either a young horse or an actual pony. Once I even saw a mini horse pulling one the size of a wheelbarrow with two six year olds in it.”
Lena shook her head. “I know I technically live in Indiana but I gotta tell you, Midvale is nothing like National City. Every time I come here I feel like I’ve stepped into another world.”
“As someone who’s been to National City, I agree.” said Nia. “You ready to get started?”
“Very much.” smiled Lena.
Just like yesterday time just seemed to fly by. Nia had taken a look at Brainy’s preliminary design and had let her imagination run wild. She had also taken a keen interest in the pictures that Lena had taken of her penthouse for inspiration. By lunch they had made significant headway. Nia had managed to talk Lena somewhat out of doing an exact copy of her penthouse. There had been colors added to the otherwise monochrome palate. There would still be white and grays with black here and there, but there was pops of colors for each room that flowed naturally. Cool blues, earthy greens. The colors not only brought life to each space but made everything seem more expansive. Nia had pulled up various websites for furniture, both local and non-local for inspiration. Lena had made some notes on what she liked and to see if any stores in National City had what she wanted or if things would need to be ordered.
“You know, some of this stuff you don’t even have to order.” said Nia. “Have you seen any of Kara’s work? Not only does she do her own stuff but she is pretty good at copying too.”
“I haven’t, actually. Everyone keeps telling me how good she is but other than what’s here in the office I haven’t seen anything else.” said Lena.
“Well then, let’s remedy that shall we?” Nia clicked out of her browser and opened a file on her desktop.
Lena was hooked on the first picture she brought up. It was a large oak bookcase that stretched practically from floor to ceiling. It had a light stain that brought out the natural color and grain of the wood and made the room it was in feel warm. The sturdy build easily held volume upon volume of thick law books.
“Oh my gosh. This is amazing.” gasped Lena.
“Here.” Nia gave her the mouse to click through at her own speed.
Lena couldn’t tear her eyes away from the screen. Bookcases, chairs, bedframes, wardrobes, tables, dressers, benches, shelves, end-of-bed storage benches, sofa tables, literally everything Lena could think of was there. Varnished, stained, painted.
“She really did all of this by herself?”
“Yep.” smiled Nia. “Seriously, Kara’s a genius. Actually, I think she might be at her shop today. Hold on, let me check.”
She pulled out her phone and sent a quick text.
“I feel like we’ve got a pretty good handle on things so far. If you’re comfortable with everything you could probably go out to the shop and maybe she could give you an idea of what she could make for you.” said Nia. “You seemed particularly interested in her bookcases.”
Lena chuckled. “I do have quite the personal library.”
Nia’s phone dinged. “Yep. She’s at the shop. Must’ve finished things at the site yesterday.” she looked at Lena. “You want the address?”
“Sure.” It’s not like Lena had anything else to do, plus she was genuinely interested in meeting this famous carpenter that people couldn’t seem to stop talking about.
The address was not what Lena was expecting. When she pulled it up it showed a house just outside of town. It was at the dead end of a lane that had ten other houses on it. Nia confirmed that it was correct and she was on her way. She had stopped for lunch at this cute diner simply called “Old Towne” and got the “Farmer’s Fresh” salad. The waitress had told her that nearly every single ingredient had come from local small farms within a twenty mile radius of town so naturally she had to give it a try. To her surprise it was better, and cheaper, than her favorite place back in National City. Lunch had been a quick affair while she checked her email. It was strange though. For some reason Lena found herself nervous about meeting Kara. No, wait…not nervous. Excited? Anticipatory? She was looking forward to it. Kara’s designs were incredible and the fact that she was a female woodworker only added to it.
Kara’s shop wasn’t as much of a shop as it was a detached garage next to her house. The house was a single story ranch and was quite quaint. There was a large truck that was a deep royal blue with a jewel-tone red racing stripe that was off-center on the passenger side. The doors of both bays of the garage were wide open. On one side there was a plethora of free weights and other gym equipment and on the other…
Ass.
Lena’s brain ground to an immediate halt the moment she pulled into the wide driveway. She didn’t know what she had expected Kara to look like but what was in front of her was…something.
The first thing she noticed about Kara was her ass. In Lena’s defense the woman’s backside was currently facing her as she was bent over a large table. Saw dust billowed in the air around her. Her cargo shorts were loose in the legs but a little snug around the rear, which drew Lena’s eyes to her calves. Thick calves that flexed as she moved. Even at the distance Lena could tell they were hard as rocks and just as sculpted. There was a thin layer of sawdust on her work boots. Lena’s eyes traveled upwards. Kara’s long blonde hair was pulled up in a ponytail that revealed an undercut that reached the tops of her ears. Kara continued moving around the table as she power sanded it.
Arms.
Lena didn’t even realize how hard she was gripping her steering wheel. Kara’s arms were unlike anything she had ever seen on a woman in real life. Bulging biceps and chiseled triceps that flexed with every movement. Kara’s shirt was blessedly sleeveless and showed off her capped shoulders that led up to thick traps and a neck that Lena wanted to sink her teeth into. Kara finally turned the rest of the way and Lena felt something roar to life deep within her. In a word: Kara was gorgeous. The angle of her jaw. The way all her concentration was focused on the wood before her. Lena only snapped out of her open-mouthed stare when Kara noticed the black car and stopped working. Lena shook herself out of her stupor and got out of the car.
“Hi.” Kara smiled.
And Lena melted.
“Hi.” Lena managed to speak.
“You Lena?”
“Yes.”
“Awesome!” Kara lit up. “Nia told me that you would be comin’ by.”
Lena tilted her head ever-so. Kara had a similar accent that everyone at the office had but there was a slight drawl to it that Lena couldn’t quite place. It wasn’t southern, but not too dissimilar.
“Yeah.” smiled Lena. “She was showing me some of your work and suggested that I come by. Maybe get some ideas for the house that I’m building.”
“Ah. So you’re the city gal that bought that huge swath of land north of town.” chuckled Kara.
“Guilty.” Lena couldn’t help the blush that started creeping up her neck.
She stepped inside the garage and took off her sunglasses.
Holy fuck Kara’s eyes were blue. She nearly jumped when Kara stuck out a hand.
“Kara Danvers.”
“Lena Luthor.”
Kara’s hands were calloused and a little rough and very warm.
Kara grinned lopsidedly. “Well, Lena Luthor, what can I do ya for?”
“That is a great question.” Lena smiled back. She finally noticed the table. “This table is amazing, by the way. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like it.”
The table was made out of a single slab of wood that looked like a whole tree had been cut vertically, the rough tree bark still on the sides. Kara scratched the back of her neck.
“Yeah, it’s kinda the style now. Everybody wants the ‘raw’ look all of a sudden. I’m not complaining though. Cost aside, it’s one of my favorites to do. I even did one that had a giant crack in it from where the tree had been hit by lightning. Used a tinted acrylic pour and made the dang thing look like it had a river running through it.”
Without hesitating Kara pulled out her phone and pulled up the picture and showed it to her.
“Holy cow.” gasped Lena.
Kara laughed. “That’s the usual reaction.”
Lena looked at her. “I had been thinking about one of your bookcases but now you got me thinking I want one of those.”
Kara just shrugged good-naturedly. “I could do both.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, totally. I could even get started this weekend. I have a couple weeks off anyways. Finished up the last project sooner than expected.” said Kara. “I don’t know if J’onn told you but I don’t just do furniture and cabinets, I help build the houses too.”
“Is there anything you don’t do?” chuckled Lena.
Kara thought a moment. “Plumbing. Have zero desire to be that up close and personal with toilets. Oh, and electrical. I’ve been shocked before and when I tell you it hurts like a bitch.” she trailed off.
“I can relate to that.” said Lena. “I’m an engineer and I’ve been shocked a time or two by a rogue wire or circuit.”
Kara brightened. “You’re an engineer? That’s cool. Where do you work?”
Lena suddenly felt her walls go back up. “Um, I work for a company in National City.”
“Cool.”
There was a wave of relief that Kara didn’t seem to recognize who Lena was.
Kara took off her safety glasses. “If you don’t mind me askin’ why’d you wanna move out here? Bit of a drive from the city. Get a new job or somethin’?”
Lena laughed nervously and fidgeted with her fingers. “I’m just…looking for a change. I guess. Something different.”
Kara nodded thoughtfully. “I get that.” she shoved her hands into her pockets. “Um, if you want I can go grab my tablet and you can look at everything I’ve done and get an idea of what you want.”
“Sure.” said Lena.
Kara smiled widely and scuffed her foot on the ground. “Cool. I’ll be right back.”
Lena couldn’t help but watch her walk away. Once Kara was out of sight she was able to get ahold of herself. Her heart was hammering away and her hands felt clammy as butterflies fluttered in her stomach. She nervously tucked her hair behind her ears as warmth flooded her body. A feeling that she had thought long-dead settle low in her hips. She had had the damnedest time trying to not look at Kara’s full pink lips. Kara was—as Jack would say—built like a brick shithouse, and it was having a devastating effect on Lena as her dormant libido suddenly roared back to life.
Maybe Midvale wouldn’t be so bad after all.
Notes:
tractor that Lena saw: https://images.app.goo.gl/6mGWqSWmGp8G2BVA9
pony cart: https://images.app.goo.gl/vUMaUEMDfyJSa3Xh7
table: https://images.app.goo.gl/1VA2taMZ2URo5LPd8
Chapter 3
Notes:
if anyone is interested in what inspired Buff Kara just check out Annie Thorisdottir. You're welcome.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kara blindly reached for her phone to silence the alarm. The cool morning breeze blew into her bedroom as she yawned and stretched, her shoulders popping in the best of ways.
5:30 am.
Kara kicked off what was left of her sheet and rolled out of bed, continuing her stretches as she woke up. Out of habit and constant routine she moved through her bathroom and bedroom with ease in the dim light. She slipped on a sports bra and then a pair of basketball shorts over her boxer briefs before grabbing her socks and running shoes. She grabbed the hair tie from its spot on her dresser as she made her way out to the kitchen. The coffee maker was already percolating. She grabbed a quick drink of water before heading outside. The sky was only just starting to grow lighter with the morning sun as she broke out into a gentle trot. Just another typical morning. Wake up and go for a short run.
Her feet crunched on the gravel along the side of the road as she fell into a relaxed pace. Mornings like this were always her favorite thing. There was hardly ever a vehicle on the road and the world was blanketed in a peaceful silence with a few songbirds here and there. It made her feel like she was the only person in the world, as if time was suspended. She was alone but not lonely.
She ran her usual three mile loop and was back home in no time. The coffee was ready and waiting by the time she walked through the door. She poured herself a cup with a generous amount of fresh cream from her cousin’s farm and started getting her breakfast ready. Sipping her beverage and still enjoying the silence of the morning she got out her trusty iron skillet, put it on the stove, and cranked up the heat. She cut a large portion of fresh butter—also from her cousin’s farm—and put it in the skillet. Once it was starting to sizzle she added a six ounce sirloin steak. When the steak was done she cracked four fresh eggs, courtesy of her neighbor, and quickly did them sunny-side up. Plating her breakfast she finished it off with a dash of hot sauce and a huge hunk of watermelon. She quietly ate her breakfast and thought about the day ahead.
She didn’t have to be at the worksite until eight which meant she had a solid hour to get a little work done on the table set that had been commissioned. Kara couldn’t believe how relaxed J’onn had been when she brought it up that she was trying to start her own side business. He had even encouraged her. It took a little ironing out but they drew up a contract that would work out in both of their favors. Kara could sell her work through his company for a small percentage and he would allow her to have a few more days not working on sites to work in her shop. And with her not around as much it meant that he would need to hire someone to fill in her gaps—he needed to hire a few people since they were expanding anyways—and that’s how she met her now best friend Barry. They had only been working together for about three years now but they had become fast friends. Kara had never really had a hard time making friends but Barry felt like an exception. They both had fallen into such ease with each other rather quickly and found that they not only had a lot in common, but that they could open up to each other about things that they didn’t feel like they could talk about with anyone else. One of those things being women troubles, because they both certainly were having a hard time “finding a good woman”. Although Barry finally conceded that maybe, just maybe, Kara had a harder time of it considering the lesbian dating pool in a small town, and the surrounding small towns, was essentially non-existent.
Kara finished her breakfast and didn’t bother with a shower as she changed into her work clothes. The days were getting hotter which meant, unless she was working on a remodel, there wouldn’t be any air conditioning and by 9 am she would be a sweaty mess anyways. She went out to her shop and picked up where she left off on one of the chairs. Her plan for the day was simple: get everything done no matter how long it took. If she was able to get everything done that meant that tomorrow she devote the entire day to finishing the table set and would have the weekend wide open. Since she and Barry didn’t have a Saturday shift at the fire station that meant they could take their bikes up to the track and blow off a little steam.
As she stained the chair she let her mind wander. It had taken a long time to get where she was today, and while she had initially felt great about it, it was becoming increasingly clear that while she could handle being alone it was the loneliness that was slowly killing her. Sure, she had her sister and her sister-in-law and her niece, her adoptive mother and grandmother, and a bunch of friends…but she had no one to call her own. For years she had shunned relationships in favor of doing serious self-work, not feeling worthy enough to even think about having a relationship.
It had been a significant moment in her life when she had smiled and proudly told her therapist that she was finally ready to accept being happy in life and to accept that she was allowed to be happy and successful. The only snag ended up being dating. Her happiness and enthusiasm had quickly waned in the wake of the online dating world. She had been on a handful of first dates but never seemed to progress any further than that. There was always something that she would find about the women that would make her not pursue them.
They didn’t line up close enough politically.
This one didn’t want kids.
“I’m not looking for anything serious right now.”
That one wouldn’t even give the outdoors a chance.
Another that was still hung up on her ex.
The “Holy hell how old are you kid? Are you even allowed on this app?”
And then the ever-dreaded “my boyfriend and I are just looking for a third”.
So she just…gave up. Put it out into the universe. If there was a woman out there for her that the universe would bring them together when the time was right. It didn’t assuage the loneliness but it did give her a way to distract herself from it. When the time was right, it would be right.
* * *
“Dude! Just ask her out already.” said Kara around a mouthful of screws.
“Dude, I don’t even know if she likes me!” said Barry.
Kara ignored him a moment and finished mounting the cabinet she had been working on. “You have got to be kidding me, Barry. I’ve seen the way Iris looks at you. Just grow some balls and do it.”
“Who needs to grow some balls?” said Winn as he came into the already cramped bathroom they had been working in.
“Barry.” grunted Kara as she contorted herself to start the next cabinet. “I told him to just ask Iris out.”
Barry finished with the shower faucet. “But what if she doesn’t want kids?”
Kara peeked around the cabinet at him. “Dude, we’ve been over this. You have got to stop finding potential faults with women you’re interested in and just go for it for once.”
Barry crossed his arms and pointed his wrench at her. “Now hold up there miss ‘but she had acrylics’. That’s some pot calling the kettle black bullshit if I’ve ever heard it.”
“Dude, you literally eat there every single day for lunch.” deadpanned Winn. “I don’t think you could be any more obvious.”
“Lots of people eat there every day. I don’t think John Miller and his buddies have missed a single early bird breakfast since she opened the diner.” Barry tried to defend.
Kara and Winn both shot him a look.
“A group of eighty year old men don’t miss the chance at a hearty breakfast at a discount before the place fills with noisy folks?” Kara leveled. “Color me surprised.”
“She’s got a point.” agreed Winn.
“Fine!” relented Barry. “I will.”
“Good.” said Kara.
“I just gotta figure out how to do it.”
“Aaaaaand there it is.” Kara pointed her drill at him.
Barry ignored her and went back to his task.
“Hey, so I’ gonna work late tonight to try and get this all finished.” said Kara. “So that tomorrow I can finish that dining set. Wanna go to the track Saturday?”
“Hell yeah I do.” said Barry enthusiastically.
“Winn, you wanna come too?” Kara asked him.
“Totally. Haven’t been there in a couple of weeks.” said Winn. “You ask James yet?”
“No. Haven’t seen him to ask. If you see him before I do you can mention it.” said Kara.
“Cool.” said Winn. “Think Alex’ll come too?”
“Nah. She and Kelly are taking Esme to a birthday party.” said Kara. “It’s her first one so they’re both kinda clingy. It’s over at the park pavilion I think.”
“Cool.” nodded Winn. “So did you guys hear about what happened Saturday?”
“No. What happened?” said Barry.
“Okay, so you know how all that farmland north of town is up for sale?” started Winn.
“Don’t tell me some huge-ass developer got it.” bemoaned Kara.
“No! Even crazier! Some rich woman from National City came up and bought the whole damn thing.” he emphasized the last words with wide eyes.
“What? That’s like a hundred acres or something.” exclaimed Barry.
“She must be hella rich to afford that.” said Kara. “What’s she gonna do with it?”
Winn shrugged. “I don’t know. But I think she might actually be building. Coach just called for an update here and mentioned something about a new big project that our crew will most likely be on soon.”
“Seriously?” said Kara. “Whoever this woman is it sounds like she knows exactly what she wants if things are moving that quickly.”
“How big we talkin’?” asked Barry.
“I’m gonna say considering she just dropped like nearly four million in a single afternoon, it’s gonna be big.” said Winn. “No one who just drops a stack of cash like that does anything small. And when I say cash I mean cash. This chick made a call to her bank right in front of Miss Grant and then signed the check. Cleared in a day like that.” he snapped his fingers for emphasis.
“Damn.” Kara whistled.
“You know…those richy types love hand-crafted shit.” Barry grinned impishly at Kara. “Bet you could make a killing.”
Kara shook her head. “I don’t know. I’m pretty swamped right now. Unless she doesn’t mind a waiting list.”
Her pocket suddenly dinged. She pulled out her phone and checked the message.
“Wow. You aren’t kidding, Winn. Brainy just finished up with her. Apparently this is going to be the biggest house we’ve ever done.”
“Told ya.” grinned Winn.
* * *
It had taken until nearly seven that night but Kara had gotten everything finished. She came home and worked out for an hour before devouring a rather large dinner while watching Japanese woodworking videos on YouTube and then crashing for the night after a thorough scrubbing in the shower. She managed to resist the familiar urge that tended to happen around this time of night and eventually succumbed to a deep sleep. In the morning, after her routine, instead of going back to the worksite she worked in her shop. By lunch she had finished all of the chairs and was working on her new favorite part: the table top. There was just something about seeing a perfectly cut vertical slice of a tree that was just so satisfying. At some point Nia had texted her something about someone wanting to come to the shop, she was so lost in her work that she didn’t see the black mustang pull into her driveway—at least she had the excuse that her sander was too loud for her to hear the engine. When she finally realized that someone was there it was as if the entire world had stopped. In hindsight she wished that that moment could have lasted for forever.
The woman that stepped out was the most beautiful creature Kara had ever seen. Her stomach instantly clenched and her heart rate spiked. Long dark hair flowed over pale shoulders exposed by a dark green satin blouse. A devastating neckline the plunged so low she could see the top of her lacy dark green bra just under a long silver necklace and pendant. Tight jeans that hugged her curves in the most delicious way. She looked so soft it made Kara’s fingers itch to reach out and touch. And her smile, god her smile made Kara’s heart flutter. She didn’t know how it happened but somehow she had managed to hold a conversation with the woman without tripping over her words and turning bright red per her usual.
Lena Luthor. Her name rolled off of Kara’s tongue like sweet honey.
And oh my god those green eyes! The moment Kara saw them she swore her brain misfired and she lost all feeling in her feet. When she stepped out to get her tablet her brain finally caught up with her hormones and she took a deep breath to steady herself. Yes, the woman was drop dead gorgeous, but she was most likely straight. They all were. And unless Lena was quiet literally waving a rainbow flag in her face, Kara knew she wouldn’t otherwise have a clue. It was unfortunate, really, Kelly and Alex had told her many times how sorry they had felt for her, but no matter how hard she tried poor Kara had zero gaydar. None. Zip. Nada. Not a goddamn clue.
Kara got herself together and went back to the garage.
She’s not gay. She’s not gay. Get it together, Danvers! Don’t be a creep!
Lena smiled when she returned. Kara tapped the screen a couple of times.
“Okay.” she breathed. “So these are all of the bookcases I’ve done.”
She handed the tablet to Lena and let her take her time looking.
“Wow. These are amazing, Kara.”
Kara did her best to not stare at the woman and had grabbed a piece of sand paper and resumed her work on the table.
“Thanks.” Kara felt her ears turn red.
Lena was silent as she perused the pictures, the only sound preventing it from being awkward was the scratching of sandpaper on wood. Kara had to focus on unclenching her jaw and relaxing her shoulders. She cursed herself for reacting like a damn junior high kid being around a pretty girl and was suddenly acutely aware of how hard she was sweating. She prayed that her deodorant was strong enough to make it through this. After some time Lena finally broke the silence.
“Okay, so I really like the size and the wood that you used for this one.” she showed Kara the picture. “But could you add the scrolling like you did for this one?” another picture.
“Uh, yeah.” Kara’s voice cracked ever-so. She cleared her throat. “Totally. I could totally do that.”
Lena looked at her. “Could you do that say…four times?”
Kara’s reaction must have been something because Lena laughed.
God that’s such a beautiful laugh. Oh, and dimples! She has dimples!
“Four?” Kara croaked in near-disbelief. “I, uh, um, y-yeah. I mean. Sure. Totally. Uh. It will take, uh, quite a bit of time though.”
“Don’t worry about a timeline.” assured Lena. “I haven’t approved Brainy’s design yet and they don’t even have the permits. So I’m in no rush.”
Kara was somehow self-aware enough to realize that she was looking at Lena’s full lips. Her eyes snapped up. She reached for the tablet and pulled up another album.
“Cool. Cool. Uh, here’s the tables I’ve done. Including several more pictures of that acrylic one.” Kara tried to cover with a smile. “I actually just saw this video where a guy did a pour but made it phosphorescent. Not exactly a look for a dining room table but something cool for like a kid’s playroom or office or something.” she could feel that she was dangerously close to babbling. “The wood that he had used was from a tree that had been damaged. It was still solid but it had all these breaks and canyons and cracks so when it glowed in the dark it looked almost alien. So cool.”
“Really? That does sound cool.” said Lena. “Maybe I should have you do something like that for my entertainment room in the basement. It would fit in perfectly there with what Nia helped me design.”
Kara smiled. “Yeah, Nia’s pretty great at that. She gave me some pointers for my place so that it wouldn’t look quote bachelor pad-y.”
Lena chuckled. Kara grabbed a dusty notebook and pencil.
“Okay. So you want four bookcases. 10 feet tall by 5 wide and 1 and three quarters deep. Natural oak stain. Scrollin’ like the Garcia case. Got it.” Kara noted. “It’ll take a minute to get you a quote on price and time. Got an email that I can use?”
Lena gave her her L-Corp email. “And like I said, don’t worry about how long it will take. Even if they can break ground within the next two week it looks like it will be November at the absolute earliest that I could start moving in and then be finished sometime in December. I offered to pay more to try and get it done sooner but your boss told me you guys can only move so fast regardless.” Lena shook her head and chuckled somewhat self-deprecatingly. “The corporate world might move slow but sometimes if you throw enough money at it people tend to move faster.”
Kara chuckled. “Well if it helps I’ll try and work as fast as I can without sacrificing quality. Wouldn’t want you to pay all that money just to have a drafty house or rain falling on your head.”
“Oh, you’ll be building it?”
Kara couldn’t quite discern the look that Lena was giving her. “Uh, yeah. Just finished up the latest project yesterday. Got a little time, obviously, until yours is started so I’m catching up on my stuff here, but yeah, I’ll be working on your house. I won’t be in charge of the framin’ though, James will. But I’ll still be there for everything else.” Kara knew she was babbling but couldn’t stop it. “We all have our general contractor’s license so we can kinda rotate on different things. So me, James, and Barry switch off as far as framin’ is concerned. And Winn is kinda our electrical whiz so we let him keep that. Plus, like I said before—”
“No toilets.” Lena finished.
Kara laughed. “Yeah, no toilets. I mean, I know my way around plumbing—”
There’s that look again.
“—so I can fix stuff and install it and whatnot. But yeah. No interest in takin’ that throne if you know what I mean.”
Lena laughed and Kara’s heart fluttered again as her stomach clenched.
“Well then I guess that means we will be seeing a lot more of each other.” smiled Lena. “Maybe you could show me around town some time? Since I will be living here soon I would like to get to know the place.”
Kara’s eyes lit up. She would very much like to do just that. Once again she had to repeat her mantra of “she’s most likely straight, she’s straight, she’s straight, don’t be a weirdo”. Just from their brief interaction Kara could tell that she wanted to strike up a friendship with Lena. There was just something about her.
“Yeah! Sure! Totally! I’d love to.” smiled Kara. “Being new in town can be a little overwhelmin’ so it’s nice to make a friend.”
“Friends are nice.” Lena echoed with a smile. “I could always use more of those.”
Bingo. Nailed it. She just wants to be friends. Which means she’s straight. Or at least it means she’s not into me which that’s okay. Still want to be friends with her regardless.
“Cool. Uh, if you want I could give you my number? So that way the next time you decide to come to town we could maybe figure something out?” said Kara.
“Sure.” Lena smiled widely and gave her number. “I don’t know when for sure I’ll be back but I’m thinking that I would like to come up some time around when you guys break ground. Or after the basement and foundation have been poured.”
“Great.” Kara smiled back. “That gives me plenty of time to figure out an itinerary or something.”
“Great.” Lena had that look again. “Well, I need to be heading back to the city. I’ve got some work I need to catch up on and I don’t want to hold you up any longer since you have a waiting list.”
Kara playfully waved her off. “Oh, you’re fine. You’re not holdin’ me up. Besides, this was technically a business meeting for me. So no problem.”
Lena tucked her hair behind her ear. “Good. I guess I’ll call or something when I will be headed back up.”
“Looking forward to it. Drive safe.” Kara smiled genuinely and waved.
Lena waved as she got back into her car and left. Once she was out of sight Kara let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding and leaned heavily on both arms on the table.
“Goddamn!” she laughed at herself. “Wow! Literally the hottest woman I’ve ever seen and not only does she want my furniture but I’m working on her house and I’m going to see her, like, often!” she hollered at her empty garage.
She started pacing and looked at ceiling. “Lordy, I am not your strongest soldier.” she rubbed her face and tried to calm herself down. “Calm down, Danvers. It’ll be fine. You just might end up being actual friends with her. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that. Friends is better than nothing. Right? Right. Right. Yeah.”
Her hands felt shaky and her entire body was vibrating. She clapped her hands together.
“Okay. Back to work.” she told herself loudly.
She put her safety glasses back on and picked up her sander and got back to it, drowning her thoughts in sawdust. As much as she wanted to concentrate on the project right in front of her face, or even start thinking about the bookcases, her mind had other ideas and all she could think about was Lena’s smile and her impending tour of Midvale. The next time Kara came to she had a pretty good idea of what she was going to show Lena and somehow had finished sanding and was already halfway done staining. She stood a moment blinking at the table as she tried to figure out how she had already gotten that far. Using her stain-less hand she checked her phone. How in the hell had three hours already passed? One thing was sure, she was going to have to get ahold of herself before she saw Lena again.
* * *
“Four?!” gaped Barry.
“Yep.” nodded Kara.
They were both sitting astride their dirt bikes in full gear. They had gotten to the track early enough that there was hardly anyone there and they were more than ready to take advantage of it.
“Damn.” Barry put on his helmet. “What does she do again?”
“She’s some sort of engineer.” Kara put on hers.
“She must be one hell of an engineer or married rich or inherited a fortune.”
Kara paused a moment. Shit. Did Lena have a ring? She couldn’t remember.
“I don’t know if she’s married.” said Kara. “Don’t remember seeing a ring though. Maybe she builds planes or something. That makes a lot of money, right?”
Barry just shrugged and kick-started his bike with a loud brap. Kara did the same. They drove slow and idled onto the track. At first their laps were a little slow and lazy, just getting into a rhythm, but then Kara looked over at Barry and it was on. They raced around the track as fast as they could. Kara eventually conceded a “loss” to Barry’s speed after a short fifteen minute moto. When they came off the track to get a drink and catch their breath James and Winn had arrived and were getting their bikes ready. And Barry decided he wasn’t done talking about Lena.
“So, is she cute?” he asked as he took off his helmet.
“Who? Lena?” said Kara as she lifted her bike onto its stand.
“Yeah.”
“Who’s Lena?” asked James.
“She’s the one that bought all that acreage. We’re actually going to be doing her house.” said Kara as she wiped her face. “And yes, Barry, she’s attractive.”
Winn suddenly pointed an accusatory finger at her. “Uh, oh. I know that look.”
“What look?” shot Kara. “I have no ‘look’.”
“Yes you do!” chuckled Barry. “It’s the same look you had with that one girl. What was her name?” he tried to snap his fingers through his riding gloves. “Kate! That’s who it was!”
Kara crossed her arms. “This is so not a Kate situation!”
Winn gestured to her face with his finger. “Your face says otherwise.”
“It does.” agreed James.
Kara looked at them like they were ganging up on her. “Okay, first of all, Kate and I are friends now and she’s happily married in Gotham. Second, Lena’s straight. So it’s a no go. DOA, boys. D-O-A.”
“So does that mean I have a chance?” asked Winn.
Kara punched him in the arm and he feigned serious injury.
“The hell, Danvers?”
“You stay away from her. She’s new to town and the last thing she needs is some dude sniffin’ at her.” Kara suddenly got defensive. “I love ya, bro, but no.”
“I’m so glad I’m married.” chuckled James.
“Lucy would totally murder you if she even caught you looking at another woman.” laughed Barry.
“I would pay to see that.” said Winn as he put on his helmet, just in time to get knocked upside the head by James. “Ow.”
“Lena’s just looking to make friends, guys. That’s it.” said Kara. “I’ve already started figuring out where I’m going to take her the next time she comes up. Give her the grand tour of Midvale.”
Barry stopped laughing at Winn. “Wait. You’re taking her out?” he shared a look with James and Winn. “Like on a date?”
“Ugh.” sighed Kara in exasperation. “No! I told you she’s straight. She just wants to get to know the town since she’s moving here and all. That’s it. Soon to be friends at best. Nothing more.”
Just friends. Nothing more.
Kara chugged some water and threw her helmet back on. “Ya’ll gonna sit there holdin’ your shit or you gonna ride?”
With that she gunned the engine, popped a wheelie, and headed back to the track.
Notes:
This has nothing to do with the fic but I just want to shout it from the rooftops since I already told everyone I know IRL....
I JUST BENCH PRESSED 185 POUNDS (84 kg) FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE!!!!!
**edit as of 7/24/24 I can now bench 200!!!!!!
Disclaimer: I am nowhere *NEAR* as buff as Kara, but I'm working on it lol
Chapter Text
Lena waited until she made it onto the main road before blasting her air conditioning and gathering her damp hair off of the back of her neck. She was sweating profusely, her heart was pounding, and her entire body was shaking with excitement. Kara was definitely not what she was expecting. Hell, she didn’t even know what she was expecting in the first place. Lena bit her lip as she replayed Kara’s arms flexing as she was sanding. Most of the women Lena had ever been with would be considered femme, and some with serious masculine energy, but it was different than what Kara gave off. Those women were…metro? Some had been androgynous, but with Kara…maybe it was because of her physical build, maybe it wasn’t, but the energy she gave off was…positively intoxicating. In the past Lena’s relationships—as far as the bedroom was concerned—there was usually equal footing, with Lena occasionally taking the reins. However, Lena now found herself incredibly distracted as she drove home, thinking about those strong hands pinning her down while a hot mouth devoured her.
Lena mentally shook herself. The last thing she needed to do was get involved with someone that was not only working for her, in some sense, but that lived in what was about to become her small town as well. It’s not like Kara hadn’t seemed interested. Lena had caught her multiple times looking at her lips and no less than twice at her chest. She was so cute when she was flustered and rambling on about plumbing. But Lena just couldn’t go jumping into bed with the woman.
That gave her pause. She hadn’t thought about someone like that in years and had begun to think that she might be broken somehow. Lena debated on whether or not to see how far she would be able to take it but ultimately decided to not fantasize about a potential friend. Kara had said “friend”. She had essentially asked her out and Kara had said “friend”. Lena could do that, she was a professional that had years of experience boxing up her emotions and putting on a façade for others, surely it would be no problem to just be friends with Kara. That didn’t stop her mind from allowing intrusive thoughts of Kara pinning her to a wall. By the time she got back home there was a throbbing low in her hips and her underwear was ruined.
* * *
The next two weeks passed in a blur. The plans that Brainy had drafted were simply amazing and he had fully lived up to his bestowed title of “genius”. After showing Sam and Jack during lunch, and riding high on their genuine gushing over the design, she gave her approval and things took off from there. The permits only took a week and just as M’gann had predicted they broke ground the following Tuesday. Unfortunately, L-Corp had swamped Lena with work and she hadn’t been able to get away to check on things until nearly three weeks had passed. And that’s how she found herself staring at her phone, nervous, trying to figure out what to text Kara. After numerous drafts she finally closed her eyes and hit send.
Hey, Kara! I’m going to be in town Saturday and was wondering if your offer of a tour still stands? I’ll be free any time after 11. - Lena
She had barely hit send when her phone dinged.
Lena! Hey! That’s cool that you will be up here but unfortunately I’m working a shift at the fire station on Saturday. If you will be around Sunday though I would be more than happy to show you around.
Lena just stared at the text. Kara works at the fire station? Is there anything that this woman didn’t do? Lena bit her lip and then replied.
You work at a fire station too? You really are a Jack of all trades. And don’t worry about Saturday. I’m actually not doing anything on Sunday so I can just come up then instead.
Lol. Yeah, I work a couple of shifts a month as a paramedic. And are you sure? You don’t have to change your schedule for me, we could just do it another time if you want.
Wow. A paramedic? That’s impressive. Needles creep me out. And don’t worry about it. Really. It’s no problem for me to come up on Sunday instead.
Lol. Remind me to tell you a funny story about needles when you come up. And okay, if you’re sure. Would you like to maybe meet for lunch as a starter? Old Towne has great food
Oh, goodness. I don’t know if I want to hear it. And that sounds fine. I think I might’ve eaten there the last time I was up that way. Really good salad.
Cool! I’ll see you then! And trust me, it’s a funny story. You won’t pass out or anything I promise.
If I do at least I’ll be around a trained medical professional.
Lena laughed at the thumbs up emoji that Kara sent in response. She was grinning like a schoolgirl at her phone and she knew it. Despite the word “friend” rattling around in her brain she couldn’t help but feel like this was going to be a date.
Ugh. She needed Sam and Jack.
* * *
“Wait…so this isn’t a date?” Jack tried to clarify.
“No. She’s just going to show me around town.” said Lena.
He looked back at their texts and then back at Lena.
“You know this looks a lot like flirting, right?”
Lena sighed. “Trust me. If you think that’s bad you should have seen what happened when I met her.”
Sam’s eyes lit up as she came out of Lena’s closet with an outfit. “Oo! Do tell!”
She held up the outfit in front of Lena. It was a sleeveless yellow top with a more conservative neckline and a cute pair of shorts that she managed to find buried in what she had designated as “the college years” part of the closet. Lena took the outfit and went into the bathroom to change.
“First of all—” she said through the door. “—I didn’t know it was possible for a woman to be that muscular. She looked like a Greek statue for god’s sake.”
Sam and Jack shared a look.
“But she was sending all sorts of mixed signals. One minute she can’t take her eyes off of my chest and the next she’s deliberately throwing around the word ‘friends’.”
She came out of the bathroom and got an immediate thumbs up from both Jack and Sam.
“Maybe she’s not gay?” ventured Jack.
Lena huffed a laugh. “Not to be like that but this woman is basically a walking butch stereotype. Not that I’m complaining. I’m just not used to it. Or at least her version of it.” she threw up her hands. “Or maybe I’m totally misreading things and she’s just a straight woman who is doing a hell of a job shattering gender norms.”
Jack pouted. “I wish you had a picture of her. Oo! Take a picture on Sunday!”
“I am not going to take a picture of her for you.” said Lena. “That’s just creepy.”
“So.” Jack shrugged. “Just do it covertly. Your description of her has me hooked and now I’m dying to see what she looks like.”
“Does she have Instagram or something? Or a website for her furniture?” asked Sam.
“Nope.” Lena shook her head. “Nia said that she just mostly relies on word of mouth and new home builders through the company. I wish I had some pictures of the stuff she’s done. It’s incredible work. If she would open up a store here she would become an overnight success.”
Sam arched an eyebrow. “That’s some seriously high praise.”
“When you see the bookcases she’s building me you’ll agree.” said Lena.
Sam plopped down on Lena’s bed. “So what are you guys going to do tomorrow?”
Lena shrugged. “Don’t know. We are having lunch at the diner in town and then whatever else she has planned.” she saw the look between Sam and Jack. “As friends. Just friends. Don’t get any ideas. Kara said friends and honestly it wouldn’t hurt to expand my circle beyond the two of you.”
Jack feigned hurt. Lena rolled her eyes.
“Oh, please. You know I love you guys. But both of you have been encouraging me to get out there and meet people and that’s what I’m doing.”
* * *
Kara just sat on her weight bench staring. She had finished her workout but couldn’t take her eyes off of her latest work. After Lena replied to the email and agreed to the price Kara may or may not have bumped a smaller project just to get a jump-start on Lena’s. This bookcase was certainly some of her best work. She might’ve gone a little overboard and instead of using a scrolling saw had opted for hand tools. It was going to take longer, but Lena had assured her multiple times that there was no rush, and Kara was determined to do her best. Plus, it had been great practice for her new set of hand carving tools. Sweat poured off of her brow as she just continued to stare and pat herself on the back for doing such a good job. Her shop was going to be the last stop for the day, per her plan, and she couldn’t wait to see the look on Lena’s face.
Lena’s face had been the cause of many things in Kara’s life lately. Seeing that smile may or may not have been the driving force behind getting the first bookcase done so soon. It had also been the subject of several of Kara’s dreams that left her a worked-up mess the following morning. Which is why she currently found herself sitting on her weight bench. Her morning run hadn’t been enough to burn off the excess energy so she threw herself into an intense free weight and kettlebell session until she could hardly stand. After her usual breakfast and a shower she still had quite a while until she was supposed to meet Lena at the diner. The day was already getting warm and she didn’t want to go through the hassle of a second shower after doing some work so she lounged around in her sports bra and basketball shorts and played a few hours of video games. Blowing shit up, even in a virtual world, always calmed her down for some reason. And it had worked, until she started to get dressed. Suddenly, her nerves were back and nothing she had in her closet or dresser seemed right. Eventually she just said “fuck it” and threw on a plain white t-shirt and light blue distressed Bermuda cut jean shorts. So what if the shorts showed off her legs? She’s allowed to feel good about herself. Since it was going to be fairly warm she opted for her usual ponytail and a pair of slides. She finished off the ensemble with a single spritz of Le Male by Gaultier before heading out the door.
She got to the diner before Lena and hung out by the door waiting for her. Soon enough a familiar black mustang pulled in next to her truck. Kara schooled her expression to a friendly smile and begged her heart to stop racing. The yellow top, shorts, and ponytail that Lena was wearing was doing nothing to help the situation.
“Hey!”
Lena practically skipped up onto the sidewalk. “Hi!”
“Have a nice drive up?”
Lena laughed. “I’m pretty sure that drive is literally the most boring stretch of highway in the entire country.”
Kara barked a laugh. “Yeah, yeah. I feel ya on that one. Used to make that drive quite frequently myself.”
She opened the door for Lena. “After you.”
Kara got a whiff of Lena’s perfume and it did nothing to help her attraction. It was light and citrusy and smelled like summer. She wasn’t the only one affected. Lena had caught of whiff of her cologne and fought the urge to bury her face in her neck. Men’s cologne had always seemed harsh and overpowering, probably due to overuse, but Kara had found a nice balance. Her scent was spicy with a light floral and…mint? Whatever it was it was doing the trick. And her simple outfit was bordering on criminal.
“Thanks.” Lena took off her sunglasses.
The diner was pretty busy but Kara spotted an empty booth near the back and gestured towards it. Out of the corner of her eye she spotted Iris and waved to her.
“Hey, Iris! Is it okay if we take this one?”
Iris smiled and nodded from the counter. “Yeah, go ahead. I’ll be over in a minute.”
“No rush!” Kara smiled back.
Lena watched the interaction in mild disbelief that this was real life and not some sort of Hallmark or Lifetime movie. She slid into the booth and Kara took the bench opposite of her and drummed her hands on the table.
“That’s Iris.” she jammed a thumb in her direction. “She owns the place. My buddy Barry has the biggest crush on her it’s hilarious.”
“So why doesn’t he ask her out?” asked Lena.
“You know, I keep askin’ him the same thing.” said Kara.
“Speaking of hilarious…” Lena knew she might regret this, “you told me to remind you to tell me a story.”
Kara furrowed her brow in confusion for a moment. Realization suddenly passed over her face. “Oh! Right! Yeah. Actually now would be the perfect time since we don’t have any food or anything.”
Lena was suddenly worried. “I’m not going to get sick am I?”
Kara laughed and waved her off. “No. I mean, I don’t think you will. But just in case. Okay. So I was working a shift in the ER one night since they were short and the ICU had discharged a bunch of patients so I didn’t really have anything to do.”
“Wait.” Lena interrupted. “Sorry. I thought you were a paramedic? They work in ICUs now?”
“Oh, no. My bad. Sorry. I was a registered nurse before I do what I do now.” Kara said off-handedly.
Lena just blinked in response. What?
Kara didn’t seem to notice. “Anyways. There was this guy that came in with a broken ankle. Nothing crazy that would require surgery but he still needed to be put under so that the orthopedic surgeon could set it. Naturally, he was in a lot of pain. Broken bones suck. Broke my hand once. Not fun.”
Lena just smiled as Kara rambled.
“Anyways. This guy is pretty big and is covered in tattoos. Like full on head to toe. So I walk in there to do an assessment on him and start and IV so that he can get some pain medication that will work quick and so the doc can get in there and do his thing. So with all the tattoos you would assume that this guy has a high pain tolerance, and considering he was acting like his ankle didn’t really hurt that bad, it only reinforced my assumption. Well…” she grinned lopsidedly. “Like my dad used to say ‘you know what happens when you assume’?”
Kara waited a beat and Lena realized she was waiting for a response.
“What happens when you assume?” said Lena.
“You make an ass out of u and me.” she dissolved into giggles. “Get it? Ass-u-me? Dad joke, I know. Anyways. So I get in there and tell him I’m going to start an IV. Dude looks me in the eye with a serious look on his face and says ‘I’m scared of needles’.”
“No!” gasped Lena with a smile. “He did not.”
“Yes!” Kara laughed enthusiastically. “I was like, dude, tattoos. And he was like, dude, not the same thing. Tattoo needles don’t puncture through the skin. I was like, whatever, I’m going to start your IV. It was an easy enough stick. Huge garden hose veins.” she laughed harder. “I shit you not. The moment I hit his vein and he saw the blood return in the tube, dude passed out cold.”
“Oh my gosh!” Lena laughed. “What did you do?”
“I finished the IV. Since he was already in bed and his heart monitor was fine I wasn’t worried. I kicked the pedal on the bed that put it in Trendelenburg, which inverts it so your feet are raised over your head. Checked his pressure. It was a little low but not even, like, a minute after flipping him he came back around.” Kara shook her head. “He was a good enough sport about it and laughed at me and got his ‘I told you so’ moment.”
Lena laughed with her. “Now that is quite the story. And you’re right, I didn’t get sick from it.”
Kara got a mischievous look in her eye. “If you want to test your limits I got a ton of stories. Some are funny, some are bloody, and some are just wild. But I’ll be nice and hold off so you can eat your lunch in peace.”
“Thank you.”
Iris finally came over. “Hey, sorry about that. We’re pretty busy today.”
“Not a problem.” assured Kara.
Iris gave Lena a menu but not Kara.
“I’m assuming you’re having your regular?” she said to Kara.
“Yes ma’am.” nodded Kara.
“Whole milk?”
“Yep.”
Iris turned to Lena. “And what can I get you to drink?”
“I’ll have a lemonade. And I’m ready to order too. I’ll have your Farmer’s Fresh salad.” she smiled.
“Perfect.” Iris quickly scrawled on a notepad. “Have you talked to Barry today, Kara?”
“No. Why?”
Iris shrugged. “No reason. He just didn’t come in yesterday.”
“Ah. That’s ‘cause we got a call and had to eat lunch at the station.” said Kara.
Iris shook her head. “That’s right. I forgot he said you guys were working yesterday.”
Kara knew she shouldn’t do it but she was sick and tired of their dance.
“You know…” she ventured. “…you could ask him out some time.”
Barry is so totally going to kill her.
“I…you…r-really?” Iris stammered.
“Trust me on this one.” Kara said emphatically.
Iris regarded her thoughtfully. “Okay. I’ll be back with your food shortly.”
She spun on her heel and left.
Kara looked back at Lena. “Barry’s gonna kill me. But it’s okay. I’ll remind him to thank me when I’m the best man at his wedding.” she chuckled.
“I take it he eats here often.” said Lena.
“Yup. Like clockwork.” Kara shifted gears. “So, have you stopped by and checked out your house yet?”
“I have.” said Lena. “I can’t believe how fast things are moving. And I knew that the basement was going to be huge but it’s another thing to see it in person instead of on paper.”
“Yeah. It’s the biggest we’ve done. Your whole house is, actually.” said Kara. “The concrete takes anywhere from 48 to 60-ish days to completely cure. So we got roughly two more week before we can start framin’.” she couldn’t hold back the grin. “So I got a little more time to work on some projects. And speakin’ of which, I have something to show you later on.”
“Oh?” Lena’s eyes sparkled.
“Yep. Saving the best for last.”
Their conversation flowed effortlessly and Lena couldn’t believe it. She was used to awkward and stilted conversation that tended to stop once it veered outside of the boundaries of business and anything STEM related. Lena found herself opening up to Kara with an ease that she hadn’t even had with Sam or Jack in the beginning of their friendships. Kara was slowly tearing down her walls brick by brick and she had no idea she was doing so. They talked some more about her house. When their food came she had to fight the urge to drop her jaw at Kara’s plate. Half of a broasted chicken slathered in butter and a bowl of fresh fruit nearly the size of her head. Kara had turned red and then explained that her peculiar diet was a remnant from her gym rat days that kept her insane sweet tooth from going overboard with processed sugar but didn’t explain further. As they ate they talked more about their careers. Lena kept quite a few details about hers intentionally vague, fearing that if Kara were to find out that she was a Luthor, especially that she was related to two of the most hated Big Pharma/Big Healthcare executives, that Kara would look at her the same way the rest of the world did. For as much as she kept her current CEO position in the shadows, she had surprised herself about opening up about her college experiences. She didn’t tell Kara the sheer number of degrees that she held but she did talk about MIT and Cambridge at length. Kara was an open book from the get-go. She had graduated from Midvale High School in 2008, two years before Lena did, then went on to Indiana University to get her RN. While she was there she had discovered a bridge program that allowed her to essentially get an associates as a minor and got her paramedic license by the end of her sophomore year. Thing took a turn, however, when they got to her time working at National City General. Kara’s demeanor had changed to something more somber. But before she could elaborate more they had been interrupted.
“Aunt Kara!” squeaked a little girl.
“Hey, kiddo!” Kara lit up and caught the girl as she jumped into her arms. “What are you doing here?”
Two women were right behind her.
“We just decided to do Sunday lunch out since mom is busy today.” said one of the women.
“Gotcha.” smiled Kara.
The little girl turned to Lena. “Who are you?”
Lena flushed and Kara laughed.
“This is my friend Lena. Lena, meet my niece, Esme.”
“Hi.” Esme waved shyly.
“Hello.” smiled Lena.
Kara jerked her head in the direction of the two women. “This is my sister Alex and her wife Kelly.”
Lena’s heart skipped a beat. A married lesbian couple in a small town like this? With a child too? She glanced around but no one in the diner seemed to be paying them any attention. Alex stuck out a hand.
“Hi. Alex Danvers-Olsen.” she smiled.
“Lena Luthor.” Lena shook her hand.
“Kelly Danvers-Olsen.” Kelly shook her hand too. “So you must be the new gal in town that Kara told us about.”
Lena looked at Kara. She had told her family about her? Must just be small town gossip.
“That I am.” Lena nodded. “Kara offered to show me Midvale so I can get to know the town better before I officially move in.”
“You really caused quite a stir.” grinned Alex. “You should probably know that Cat Grant isn’t just the realty queen of northeastern Indiana, she’s also the gossip queen. Pretty sure the whole town knew about your little purchase in under 24 hours.”
Kelly looked at Alex. “I think that’s a personal record for her.”
“Second only to your wedding.” nodded Kara. “The hullabaloo that resulted you would have sworn the president himself had come to town unannounced.”
Lena couldn’t help the slight frown. “Did people have a problem?”
“Some did.” said Alex. “Some religious yay-hoos were thinking about protesting but our old youth pastor talked them out of it. It was pretty incredible. We haven’t been to church since high school but he didn’t care.”
Kara smiled softly. “I always liked Dave. He was such a nice guy.”
“Was?” said Lena.
“He passed away from cancer last year.” said Kelly.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Lena sympathized.
“Way to drag the afternoon down, Alex.” said Kara. “Now Lena’s gonna be all bummed out during our tour.”
“Sorry.” Alex winced.
“It’s okay.” Lena assured. “Kara’s been wonderful company. I’m sure her enthusiasm won’t be hampered.”
Kelly and Alex both chuckled.
“Understatement.” said Kelly.
“Well, we won’t interrupt your lunch any longer.” Alex reached out a hand to Esme who happily took it. “Enjoy. Nice to meet you, Lena. Hope you like Midvale.”
“Nice to meet you too, Alex.” said Lena. “And I’m already starting to like it.”
“Bye.” Kelly waved.
Kara and Lena both waved as the family went over to an open table on the other side of the diner.
“Sorry about that.” said Kara. “I didn’t know they were coming here.”
“Don’t worry about it.” said Lena. “It’s was nice to meet them. I’m sure we would have met sooner or later.”
“True.” Kara finished off the last of her fruit. “Mm. Good stuff. I’m done. Do you still need more time?”
“No. I’m good, actually.” Lena pushed away her plate.
“Cool. I’ll just pay real quick and we’ll head.” said Kara as she got up.
“Oh, you don’t have to do that. I can pay for my lunch.” Lena stood up with her.
Kara politely waved her off. “Nah. Don’t worry about it. You’re the new one around here. I’m not gonna make you pay for lunch just like I’m not gonna make you pay for your tour.”
Kara paid for lunch and got a toothpick and peppermint for herself and a peppermint for Lena and then they were off. Lena really did want to be friends with Kara, but the little acts of chivalry, like opening the door for her, were making it increasingly difficult. Unlike when men did it for her, which was usually out of reflex anyways, Lena hadn’t felt awkward when Kara did it. It had just felt natural. She wasn’t doing it because Lena was a woman or some damsel in distress, she just did it because she wanted to. They walked around the town square and Kara pointed out different shops to her. A café that served the best coffee around and supposedly was better than any of those large chains. An antiques store. Several different boutiques, with a few surprisingly catching Lena’s eye with their window outfits. Kara had offered to let her shop if she wanted but Lena declined and said that she could do it another time. The afternoon was spent in more pleasant conversation and relaxed company. Kara showed her the elementary school and the Junior/Senior high school. That was how Lena learned that Kara had done wrestling and softball in high school and that her employer, J’onn, had been the football and wrestling coach when she was there. After that, every time he was mentioned Kara simply called him “Coach”. It was sweet and endearing and yet another relationship that Lena never had and would never have. When Kara asked her about her high school experience she had just said that she went to private school and that she was more into horses and chess. Kara had laughed good-naturedly and said that it fit. After a couple of hours of walking around, and an ice cream treat, they went to Kara’s place. Kara practically jumped out of her truck in excitement.
“Okay. Stand right here and close your eyes until I tell you.” she bubbled.
Lena just laughed and did as she was told. She heard the side door to the garage open and then the garage door open.
“Okay. Open them.” Kara sounded positively giddy.
Lena gasped as she looked at the finished bookcase in front of her. Her hand immediately reached out and she smoothed her fingers over the smooth surface.
“Oh my god! Kara!” she breathed. “This is…this is beautiful!”
Kara was positively beaming. This is what she lived for. This. Seeing people react like this to her hard work, to her creativity. And seeing Lena so happy sent her own happiness skyrocketing into the atmosphere.
Lena took in every detail in awe, and the fact that Kara had done this with her own two hands was not lost on her. The creativity, the artistry, it reminded her of how she used to be with her own inventions and for a brief moment she felt her breath catch in her chest and her heart ache.
Kara shoved her hands in her pockets and kicked at the ground. “It’s nothing. But I’m glad you like it. Now I just gotta make three identical copies.” she chuckled.
“I am more than confident that you will be able to pull it off.” said Lena sincerely.
Kara met her gaze a moment before looking down at the ground and kicking at the ground again.
“So, uh, how was your tour? Think you’re gonna like livin’ here?”
“I really did, Kara. You did an amazing job with everything. I don’t think I even got so much as a ‘Welcome to the Building’ from any of my neighbors when I moved to National city.” said Lena.
“We just do things a little different out here.” shrugged Kara.
There was a beat of silence between them.
“Uh, so I don’t know what your plans are next Saturday, and feel free to say no, but if you would like to get to know some more people, we are having a dinner gathering with some of my friends. So if you wanna come that’d be alright.”
Lena momentarily panicked internally. She had thought she had been thrown in the deep end meeting her sister and family earlier but apparently there was still more to come. It was all a little overwhelming considering the most family interaction she had before Lillian and Lex went to prison was the occasional visit to the lab that usually came with some sort of put-down or some other form of emotional manipulation. To see a family interaction that was “normal” was beyond a foreign concept to her and she wasn’t sure if she could handle so much…honesty.
“Um, I will have to check my schedule but I can let you know soon.” said Lena.
“No problem.” Kara smiled that genuine smile again. “Just thought I’d offer. Another opportunity to make more friends is all. I know I can be a little ‘enthusiastic’ as Alex says, so I understand if it’s a little much for ya.”
Lena’s heart fluttered. Kara was so considerate.
“Thanks. And thank you for everything today, really. I had so much fun.”
“No problem. I had fun too.” Kara pointed a finger at Lena. “I think you and I are gonna be good friends.”
God did Kara hope so. So did Lena.
“Me too.” Lena smiled back.
Notes:
Unlike Kara, I was *terrified* when the guy passed out. I was still in school and was at a clinical when it happened. And yes, he was my patient and the nurse I was following had stepped out to get his medication when it happened. Hilarious considering the multitude of tattoos that I have now and how I almost pass out when my blood is drawn. There *IS* a difference, lol.
Chapter Text
By lunch Lena had looked at her phone no less than twenty times. In her defense she was mesmerized by the picture that was on it. She would keep zooming in on the scrolling and all of the details, getting lost in them, and lost in smiling blue eyes. It had been an innocent enough request, to get a picture of the art with the artist. Kara had hesitated a moment before finally jamming her hands into her pockets and shyly smiling next to the bookcase.
“Wow. That’s a really good picture of you.” smiled Lena.
“Yeah, it’s not bad.” said Kara as she looked at the picture.
“Have you ever thought about making a social media account to share your work?”
Kara shrugged. “I’m not really into that kind of stuff. Never really thought about it too much. Nia and Lucy have tried to get me to make one, but, I don’t know. I don’t wanna to have to deal with tryin’ to figure out how to ship a two hundred pound table across the country. It’s just easier if they’re within drivin’ distance.”
“Ah. Yes, logistics can be quite the nightmare. I completely understand.”
“Hey, I have those SEC reports you wanted.”
Lena practically jumped as Sam came in.
“And I have lunch!” chirped Jack as he came in right behind her. “Oh, hello. You’re smiling. Why are you smiling? Would it have anything to do with a certain hunky carpenter?”
Lena blushed and bit her lip while she debated whether or not to show Jack the picture. It’s not like she had taken it for him in the first place. She really did just want a good picture of the bookcase with a little added bonus. With a sigh she gave in and showed them the picture.
“Holy shit!” gasped Jack.
“Wow!” Sam emphasized with wide eyes as she sat down across from her. “You weren’t kidding. She’s ripped.”
“If you aren’t going to date her then can I?” Jack was only half-kidding as he put their lunches on her desk.
Lena took back her phone. “No, you can’t. Something tells me that regardless of sexuality she would very politely decline you. She doesn’t strike me as the constant clubbing and partying type. Plus, I didn’t think you were into monogamy as of late.”
Jack sighed dramatically. “Fair enough. Can I see it again? That bookcase was quite impressive.”
Lena pulled it back up and gave it to him and then leaned back in her chair.
“What am I doing?”
“What do you mean?” said Sam as she zoomed in on the intricate carvings.
“I mean, why am I even attempting a friendship with this woman when I don’t even know if I’ll be living up there for sure. At best it will be a weekend getaway or maybe a vacation home.” Lena worried a pen between her fingers and then laughed mirthlessly. “It’s official. I’ve lost my mind. My mother was right.” she shook her head. “I have no idea what I’m doing.”
“Uh, in your defense she was talking about running the company, not potentially shacking up with a living god.” said Jack off-handedly.
“As if Lillian is in any position to criticize anyone.” said Sam as she opened her lunch.
“What am I doing?” whined Lena as she spun around and looked out at the city skyline.
“Lena.” Sam said gently. “I know you said that you weren’t ready but maybe now you are?”
Lena remained silent. Sam continued.
“It doesn’t have to be for long. Maybe just start off with taking a week off? Then when you come back, I don’t know, you could try working remotely? Or you could spend two or three days a week in the lab. Jack and I are more than prepared to help out.”
Jack turned serious. “Seriously, Lena. Please just let us help. Yes, I will be the first to admit that I want to be CEO, but only if you wish it. I have the degrees and the experience and this is the entire reason why I chose this career path. I want to run a successful company. And I’m worried about you.”
“And I’m already your VP of Finance.” added Sam. “And just like Jack this is something I actually want, Lena. You’re starting to scare us. We just want to make sure that you’re okay.”
Lena slowly turned back around and looked at them.
“I know. You’re both ambitious. I understand that. But I just can’t.” she looked down at her fingers and started picking at her nail before looking back up at them. “Luthors don’t quit or fail. And as much as I would love to return to the lab, that’s all that I’ll be able to see myself as: a failure. Lillian would be right, as she always is. And Lex, well, he would be right there with her telling me ‘I told you so’ and reminding me that he is the superior genius of the family.”
“A superior genius who landed himself in federal.” said Sam under her breath.
“You’re not a failure if you stop doing what you hate and go back to what you love.” said Jack. “There’s no shame in that, Lena. It’s not like you’re admitting defeat. You’re just doing what’s right for you instead of what’s expected of you. You never asked for this in the first place.”
Lena considered his words but deep down dread was rising like bile in her throat. Logically she knew it was the best option if she wanted to keep what was left of her sanity and humanity, but a lifetime of living with the Luthors was not something that was easily forgotten or healed.
“I will think about a vacation if that makes you feel better.”
“It’s a start.” smiled Sam.
Going to a dinner to meet Kara’s friends counted as a vacation surely. She picked up her phone and pulled up their conversation. Her nerves were ratcheting up at breakneck speed. The thought of meeting more people that were like Kara and her sister proved to be quite daunting. There was a good chance she would have to put on her CEO face to get through it. As nervous as it made her though, the thought of getting to see Kara again proved too hard to pass up.
“Would you two be upset with me if I cancelled our plans for Saturday?”
“If it’s for your muscled hunk, then no.” said Jack around a bite of lunch.
“Why? Did Kara ask you out again?” winked Sam.
Lena ignored her. “Kara and her friends are having a dinner party. She thought I might benefit from getting to know more people in town, that’s all.”
“Go.” Sam gave her blessing. “Have fun. Get out of your own head for a little bit. Seriously. You only spent one day with the woman and this is the most relaxed I’ve seen you in a long time.”
Lena cracked a small smile.
So it would seem my schedule opened up for Saturday. What time should I be there? Do I need to bring anything?
Per usual, it didn’t take long for Kara to get back to her.
Great! If you could be at my place by 4:30 that would be perfect. And you don’t have to bring anything but your awesome self lol.
Lena’s smile brightened and Jack managed to confiscate her phone with a victorious laugh. He quickly read the exchange.
“Oh, Lena. She’s totally flirting.” he showed Sam.
Lena sighed. “The thing is…I don’t think she even knows.”
* * *
Lena had been a nervous wreck the entire drive up but the moment she saw Kara it was momentarily forgotten.
“Hey!” smiled Kara as she came out of her house carrying a cooler.
“Hi!” Lena did her best to hide her nerves.
Suddenly, her mind was wiped blank as strong warm arms wrapped her in a quick friendly hug. Lena briefly closed her eyes against the sensation and fought the urge to melt into it. It was only for a split second then she hugged Kara back.
“So where are we going?” Lena said breathlessly.
“Just down the road. I wanted to get there a little early since I’m grilling the steaks.” she picked up the cooler that she had put down. “You like steak, don’t you?”
“Yes.” Lena chuckled. “Anything I can do to help?”
“Nope. Got everything under control.” Kara put the cooler in the back seat of her truck. “Hop on in and we’ll head out.”
Lena practically had to climb up the runner board to get in the massive truck. The inside was impeccably clean despite the various tools and construction gear on the back bench.
“I don’t think I’ve ever been in a truck this big, much less a truck at all.” said Lena.
“It didn’t use to be this big. But Barry talked me into putting a lift kit on it so that we could go muddin’.” said Kara.
“Mudding?”
“Yeah.” Kara reached her arm behind Lena’s seat as she turned around and backed the truck out of the driveway, momentarily stopping Lena’s heart without knowing it. “I’ll have to take you some time. It’s crazy fun. We all kinda let out our inner redneck.” she grinned.
They pulled out onto the main road and Kara turned on some music. The volume was low but it was still a shock to Lena’s system. She had never heard anything like it before.
“You like metal?” Kara shot her a lopsided grin.
“Is that what you call this noise?” Lena was completely serious.
Kara just laughed. “It’s not noise, Lena. Metal music is the best stuff out there.”
“I beg to differ. I can’t even understand what they’re saying. Are they just screaming or what?”
“In a sense. But it’s a trained style. They don’t just get in front of a mic and scream like they’re being scared or something. It takes serious training so that they don’t jack up their vocal chords or something.”
“There’s vocal lessons for screaming?” Lena arched an eyebrow.
“Hell yes there is! I can even pull up a YouTube video to show you how it’s done.” said Kara. “Do you want to know what the really cool thing is?”
“What?”
“Okay, so I listen to mostly female fronted bands and a lot of the singers actually sing full on opera.”
Lena didn’t believe her.
“For real! One lady even toured with the Finnish Opera.”
“Now opera I can get behind.” said Lena.
“Who’s your favorite soprano?”
“You know opera?”
“Meh, a little. I like listening to it but I don’t really know a lot of the singers. Though I will say that I like that Puccini guy. Another one of the metal singers did an aria of his once. At least, I think it was an aria. Either way it was beautiful.”
Lena regarded Kara. “You are just full of surprises, aren’t you?”
Kara glanced at her and chuckled. “What do you mean?”
“You’re a carpenter that used to be a nurse but still work as a paramedic from time to time. You have your own successful side business. You listen to metal but know opera. Are there any more surprises I should know about?”
Kara barked a laugh. “What, did you think because I’m country that that’s all I listen to? And as far as surprises…I don’t think there’s any. But if I think of some I’ll let you know.” her grinned turned mischievous. “Or maybe I won’t. That would ruin the surprise.” she glanced at Lena again. “What about you? Do you have any surprises, Lena Luthor?”
Lena laughed but internally her panic came roaring back. Yes, yes I do.
She smiled wryly. “Now if I told you then they wouldn’t be surprises.”
“Touché.” nodded Kara.
Two more turns and they were pulling into a short driveway in the middle of town. The house was picturesque. A small porch that had two rocking chairs and hanging flower boxes on the railing. Well-maintained flower beds. And an American flag. Kara led the way through the front door but it seemed like there was no one inside.
“Grandma?” she shouted.
Lena stopped dead in her tracks. Grandma?
“In the kitchen, sweetie!” came a reply from near the back of the house.
Kara continued into the house with Lena, now reluctantly, following behind. Kara put the cooler on the table.
“Got the steaks. Is the grill ready?”
An elderly woman putting together a small charcuterie board wiped her hands off on her apron. “It’s out but I haven’t started it.”
“Okay.” Kara walked over to her and gave her a hug, the woman gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Hi.”
“Hi, kiddo.” grandma tapped Kara’s cheek.
“I brought a new friend with me.” Kara turned around and gestured to Lena. “Lena, this is my grandma Linda Danvers. Grandma, this is Lena Luthor. She’s new to town. I’m actually building her house.”
Linda immediately broke out into a warm smile. She was shorter than Lena and had short white hair that was curled. She looked every bit like what Lena had imagined a grandmother would look like.
“Lena!” Linda gave her a hug. “So nice to meet another one of Kara’s friends. And welcome to Midvale.”
“Oh!” Lena hadn’t had this many hugs in one day in…ever. “Thanks. You have a lovely home, Linda.”
Linda took a step back but held on to Lena’s hands. “Thank you. And you can call me grandma. Everyone does.”
Lena looked to Kara for verification. Kara nodded.
“O-okay.” she stammered slightly.
Grandma chuckled warmly. “Lordy, you’re a cute one.”
She gave Lena a similar tap on the cheek before going back to cutting up cheese and fruit. Lena turned bright red and Kara was biting back a laugh.
“Um, is there anything I can help with?” Lena practically squeaked.
“No, thank you, dear. We’ve got it all covered.” said grandma. “But if you want to help out Kara you can.”
Kara spun on her heel and looked at Lena. “Know how to start a charcoal grill?”
“Not exactly.”
“Wanna learn?”
“Sure.”
Kara held open the back door for her. “Well then come on out and I’ll show you.”
Lena was only barely aware of what Kara was showing her, her head was still swimming from the last five minutes. She wasn’t just at a dinner with Kara’s friends, she was at her grandmother’s house for dinner. What?! Who are these people and how are they just so…normal?
Kara got the coals lit and then they went back inside.
“So where are you from, Lena?” asked grandma.
“National City. But I’m originally from Metropolis.” Purposely staying vague was going to be the only way she would survive this.
“That’s nice. So what made you decide to move here?”
“Oh, um, I’m not completely moving here. I bought some land and am building a house but I’m mostly going to be based out of National City for my job.”
“Oh really?” grandma put the finishing touches on the board. “Your job must pay pretty well if you’ve got two homes.”
Lena nervously put her hands in her pockets. “I do well enough.”
“Lena’s an engineer, grandma.” supplied Kara.
Grandma lit up. “Really? What type?”
“A little bit of everything but my specialty is biomedical.” Lena blushed.
“I didn’t know that.” Kara looked her over. “That’s cool.”
“My George was an electrical engineer.” grandma smiled fondly. “He worked for Raytheon for many years.”
“I’m familiar with them.” nodded Lena.
“What company do you work for?”
Dammit. Lena knew that sooner or later this would happen. She crossed her arms.
“Oh, um, you’ve probably never heard of it. It’s relatively new. Um, L-Corp.” Lena braced herself for the backlash.
It never came.
“L-Corp.” grandma hummed in thought. “I think I’ve heard of that before.”
“Knock, knock!” shouted a voice from the front door.
“Hey, Winn! In the kitchen.” shouted Kara.
Lena braced herself for the impending onslaught of an unknown amount of new faces.
Winn walked in carrying a large bowl.
“Brought the potato salad.” he smiled as he sat it down on the table.
“Winn, this is Lena. Lena, Winn.” Kara introduced.
“Hey.” Winn waved.
“Hi.” smiled Lena.
“Winn is one of the guys I told you about that’s working on your house.” said Kara.
“Right. I think I remember you saying that.” said Lena. “Nice to meet you, Winn.”
“Nice to meet a rich city gal like yourself.” Winn smiled. “Ow!”
Kara elbowed him hard. “Be nice.”
Lena marveled at the casual interaction. She didn’t have much time to process as a long line of people came in. There were enthusiastic greetings all around and more food than Lena thought possible. Kara made sure to introduce her to everyone. Alex, Kelly and Esme she already knew as well as Nia and Brainy. Then there was James, Lucy, Eliza, and Barry. Barry was just like Kara and gave Lena a big hug and a smile when he met her. There were some many people in such a small space that Lena had started to panic, but then she felt a warm hand on her hip and Kara talking low in her ear.
“Hey, wanna help me with the steaks? The grill should be ready now.”
Lena nodded silently and followed her outside.
“Thought it might feel a little cramped in there.” said Kara as she checked the coals.
“When you said dinner with friends I assumed it would be three, maybe four.” said Lena.
Kara chuckled. “We don’t exactly do things small around here.” she put the steaks on the grill. “It’s not too much is it? Are you doing okay?”
“I’m doing better now that we’re outside.” admitted Lena. “I’m just not used to having that many people in a small space. The dinner parties I’m used to are usually a relatively quiet affair filled with stuffy business people.” It was the truth.
Kara arched a brow. “That doesn’t sound like much of a party.”
Lena barked a laugh. “No. Ah, no, they really aren’t.”
Kelly and Eliza came outside to set up the tables and chairs in the back yard and slowly one by one everyone made their way outside, each carrying a plate or bowl of food or drinks. Grandma came over to Lena.
“You know, you seem familiar, now that I think about it.”
Lena’s heart leapt up into her throat. “Oh?”
“You look an awful lot like that gal I saw on TV years ago.”
Uh oh.
Grandma looked her over. “You wouldn’t happen to be related to that Lex Luthor man, would you?”
Lena died in that moment.
“You know Lex?” Lena rasped.
“Well, I don’t know him personally. But my women’s group followed his trial.” said grandma. “Martha’s husband was part of the lawsuit suing him for that awful drug that gave him cancer.”
Lena blanched. Kara saw and was instantly at her side.
“Hey, you okay? You look a little pale.” she worried. “Do you want to sit down?”
Lena nodded mutely.
“Are you alright, sweetie?” grandma worried. “Can I get you a drink?”
Lena nodded again. Grandma went and got her a glass of ice water and Lena drank it down. Even while in prison Lex followed her everywhere. Alex came up next to Kara.
“Hey, is Lena okay?”
“Yeah. I think I might have overwhelmed her with so many people.” Kara looked so guilty.
Alex rubbed her back.
“You doing okay, Lena?” Kara looked at her. “Alex is a doctor if you need anything.”
“I’m fine. Really.” Lena lied. “I’m just not used to being around this many people.” she cleared her throat and looked at grandma. “Your friend’s husband was affected by ImmunePro?”
“You know about ImmunePro?” asked Alex.
Lena nodded. “I know a little about it.”
Alex suddenly frowned. “I’m glad that bastard got time for that.”
If Lena could have blanched further she would have.
“I heard the company is doing good stuff now that he’s gone.” said grandma.
“They are.” Alex nodded and softened. “They slashed insulin prices. It’s amazing. They’ve saved so many lives because of it.”
Lena’s ears perked. Grandma looked at her again.
“Are you sure you aren’t related to him somehow? Luthor isn’t exactly a common last name.”
Dammit grandma.
Alex suddenly connected the dots.
“Wait. Lena Luthor? As in sister of Lex Luthor that testified against him?” she said a little too loudly.
All eyes were suddenly on Lena.
“I, um…” Lena thought she was going to die. “Yes?”
The entire back yard was silent. Lena could hear her own heartbeat in her ears as her vision started to tunnel.
“Are you telling me that you’re friends with an actual billionaire with a ‘B’, Kara?” Barry broke the silence.
Kara looked from Barry to Lena for confirmation. Lena nodded in shame.
“Holy cow, that’s fucking awesome!” shouted Barry.
“Language, Barry!” grandma shouted at him.
“Sorry, grandma.” he ducked his head in shame.
“You’re the reason my patients can afford their insulin now?” Alex looked at her wide eyed.
Lena braced herself.
“Can I hug you?”
Before Lena could answer she was wrapped in a bear hug.
“You are a godsend!” Alex squeezed her. “Truly.”
What was happening? Where was the yelling? The fury? The hate?
Alex stepped back and looked her in the eye. “Seriously, do you have any idea the impact that has had on people? You are an angel among demons, Lena. I don’t know how you were able to pull it off when everyone else was saying that it couldn’t be done.”
Lena was dumbfounded. “I-it wasn’t easy. It w-was only because I was able to convince the board and shareholders that the volume sold would be enough to make up for the potential profit loss.”
Grandma took her hand. “You did a brave thing by getting up on that stand and putting that man away for good.”
Were those tears in her eyes?
Grandma hugged her close and gave her a kiss on the cheek and Lena could feel the tears threatening to build. When she let her go she looked over at Kara who seemed lost in thought.
She must hate me.
“So…” Kara started slowly. “You’re a biomedical engineer and you run a biomedical company…”
Lena braced for impact.
“Does that mean that the LC brand Tandem Heart and ECMO systems are yours?”
That is quite literally the last thing Lena expected to hear.
“Yes?” she rasped.
Kara’s eyes absolutely lit up. “This is literally the coolest thing I’ve ever heard.”
She squatted down in front of Lena and smiled widely. “Do you know how many patients we were able to save with that technology?”
Lena shook her head.
“We had one lady that was in multiple organ failure and had it not been for your company’s new membrane filter she wouldn’t be alive today.” said Kara in awe. She pointed to herself. “I ran the machine myself. A literal lifesaver.”
Lena couldn’t help the tears that welled up. “That was my design.” she whispered.
Kara’s face was pure awe. “You built that?”
Lena nodded and wiped her eyes.
“Oh, sweetheart.” cooed grandma.
Kara’s eyes were practically shining. “Wow. You’re amazing, Lena.”
That did it. As much as Lena wanted to stop the tears she couldn’t. She suddenly found herself wrapped in incredibly strong and incredibly warm arms.
“Hey, hey, it’s okay. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you cry. I’m sorry, Lena.” Kara hugged her close.
“No. No. It’s okay. It’s just that…I’m not used to such…kindness.” Lena sniffed.
Eliza came over with a napkin and handed it to her with a soft smile. Lena took it and Kara let her go so she could wipe her eyes.
“Sorry everybody.” Lena sniffed as she wiped her eyes.
“Don’t apologize.” said Lucy.
“Yeah. If anything it’s our fault.” said Alex.
“Can I get you anything?” asked Kelly.
“No. I’m fine. Thanks. It’s just that this is quite literally the opposite reaction people usually have when they find out who I am.” Lena cleared her throat.
Kara rubbed her back.
“I’m not surprised.” said James. “I remember when articles about the epipen and insulin price gouging were going around. We actually assisted on a few calls where people had anaphylactic reactions but either didn’t have their medication or it was expired. I don’t envy the situation that your family put you in. That took some serious bravery to take the stand against them.”
Lena’s mind was whirling. She had to be in some sort of alternate universe. Luthors were universally hated in both Metropolis and National City, yet here in Midvale she was an angel? She felt a warm hand take hers.
“Barry? Can you take over the grill for a minute?” Kara’s head was turned.
“Yep.”
Kara turned back to Lena. “How’s about we take a little walk? Get you some fresh air?”
* * *
“Sorry about that. Really. If I would have known—”
“It’s alright, Kara.”
They were walking side by side through the neighborhood. Lena folded the napkin in her hands.
“It’s my fault, really.” said Lena. “I should have just told you from the get-go. But I was scared.”
“I don’t blame you.” said Kara. “That’s…that’s some pretty heavy stuff that you went through. Do, uh, do you want to talk about it?”
Lena took a deep breath. No, not really, she didn’t. But somehow Kara, in such a short time, had wormed her way in between her ribs. She took a deep breath.
“My father was Lionel Luthor. He built Luthor Corp from the ground up. When he died my mother, Lillian, took over. Then, when Lex was finished with school, he took up the family mantel and well…we all know how that turned out.”
Kara remained silent and just listened.
“When I finished school I went straight into the lab.” Lena smiled sadly. “I love it there. I could do whatever I wanted. God, I had so many ideas. That membrane being one of them. I had zero desire to take over the family business. I just wanted to make a difference in the world. But, apparently, fate had other plans.” she shook her head. “One minute I’m trying to quite literally cure cancer and the next I’m all alone and staring down the barrel of the company board, the weight of the world on my shoulders. I had so many people depending on me, and not just the shareholders, but the thousands of Luthor Corp employees. I couldn’t let them down. I couldn’t just be another reviled Luthor. I wanted to be different.”
“I get that.” Kara said softly.
“So for seven years that’s what I’ve done. I put everything aside, turned the entire company around, all to clear my own name and to let the world know that Luthor’s are capable of good.” she shook her head again. “But at every turn I had Lex and Lillian’s shadow following me. I don’t know. Maybe I’ll never get away from it.”
Kara shook her head. “But you are.”
Lena looked at her.
“I’m being serious. Your brain created something that has saved who knows how many lives. I could never do that. Not to mention you made healthcare affordable for people and proved that it could be done without taking huge losses.” Kara said sincerely. “I don’t see how any shadow cast could be dark enough to blot out that kind of light.”
Lena stopped suddenly. “Why are you all so kind to me?”
Kara stopped and looked at her blankly. “Did you not hear what I just said?” she said innocently.
“I’m serious, Kara.” Lena started shredding the napkin. “Why do you even want to be my friend? You don’t even really know me.”
“Because I want to.” said Kara matter-of-factly. “You’re an awesome person, Lena. And I know that we haven’t known each other long, but…” her shoulders were up to her ears. “I don’t know. I just want to be your friend. I haven’t met anyone like you before.” she flashed her signature lopsided grin. “I don’t know if you know this but you’re the first billionaire I’ve ever met.”
Lena laughed wetly. “Well, I think you’re pretty awesome too, Kara. And I would like to be your friend if you’ll still have me.”
“Of course.” Kara said without hesitation.
They stood in silence for a beat.
“Do you think you’re ready to go back to the party? Or I could take you back to my place and you could go home if you want.”
Lena worried her lower lip a moment and nodded. “Yeah. I think I’m ready to go back to the party. Besides. I don’t want grandma to worry about me.”
Kara just laughed. “Oh, don’t worry, she already is.”
Chapter Text
Even though Lena had assured her that she was fine it didn't stop Kara from feeling like a grade-A jackass for inadvertently making her cry.
"I'm sorry for that, sweetheart." apologized grandma. "I have a bad habit of putting my foot in my mouth sometimes."
Lena shook her head. "It's not your fault. It's no one's fault, really. It's okay. You had no way of knowing."
Grandma still gave her a hug and Lena genuinely hugged her back.
“It’s food!” Barry announced as he took the last of the steaks off of the grill.
Lena melted as Kara just barely put her hand on her lower back and guided her over the table overflowing with food. She explained what each one of the sides and desserts were while overloading her own paper plate to the point that Lena thought it was going to buckle under the weight. Since Kara had practically been salivating at a particular dessert called Buckeye Pie Lena took a small slice—and later went back for another. Thankfully, the conversation around the table was devoid of topics about her family, instead she was freely gifted with the stories of how everyone met—and eternally grateful for her incredible memory.
Alex graduated high school a year before Kara and Winn, who were both in the same class. Winn had been in Midvale his entire life. James and Kelly came along when Alex was a sophomore and Kara was a freshman. James was a year ahead of Alex and Kelly was in Kara’s grade. But Alex and Kelly didn’t start dating until after they both graduated and reconnected during their time in the army, and then got engaged when they were in graduate school and medical school respectively. They adopted Esme three years ago when she had just turned two. When James graduated high school he went straight into training to become a firefighter while working part time with Coach as he had just started expanding his company. James and Kelly had moved from Ohio and had gone to school with Kara’s cousin Clark. James and Clark were best friends and played on the football and basketball teams together. Lucy went to that same school as did her sister, Lois. Lucy and James had briefly broken up when he moved but got back together shortly after high school. And now Lucy had her own beauty company—Eliza was a co-owner—that specialized in goat milk based items: lotion, soaps, shampoos, masks, and more. Lena would later leave with a dozen samples that Lucy just so happened to have in her tote. The goat milk and tallow were supplied by Lucy’s sister Lois, who had a small goat herd on her dairy farm with her husband, Kara’ cousin, Clark. Winn had started working summers with Coach and after completing his electrician apprenticeship, got his contracting license and went to work full time for him. Much to Lena’s surprise Winn had been on the football team too…as the kicker. Barry hadn’t come along until later. He moved to Midvale about three years ago to help take care of his great uncle who then passed a year later. He and Kara had ended up on a project together and were basically instant best friends. Brainy and Nia came along two years ago. Brainy had just finished college and had been having issues finding a job as his social skills weren’t the greatest back then—they had improved significantly once Nia came along—but J’onn saw his amazing mind for what it was and hired him on the spot. Nia had just simply been looking for a job after college and J’onn was the first to respond back with an interview request and things just clicked from there.
After dinner came the fun. It had been a group effort but soon enough Lena both learned and played rather well: hillbilly horseshoes, corn hole (not what it sounds like), bocce ball, and ladder ball. There had also been a few rounds of hide-and-seek with Esme. At some point, fueled by sugar and overstimulation from fun, the rough-housing started. It had started innocently enough. Kara and James were in a heated discussion about college football, and while James had grown up in Ohio he was a Michigan fan since his father had gone there, Kara was firmly an Ohio State fan thanks to her grandfather, despite having gone to IU. Winn and Barry and even Lucy had joined in. Apparently James said something that Kara took as a challenge and Lena just sat and drank in the sight that followed: Kara and James arm wrestling. Kara might have been jacked but James was no slouch and Lena figured he worked out as much as Kara did. Kara put up a good fight but ultimately lost, although somehow it was Barry that ended up the loser at the end of all of it. Lena didn’t catch what he said but Kara suddenly tackled him to the ground and it was off to the races. Barry might have been a track star in high school but he had wrestled as well. He was fast but Kara had better technique. There were grunts from both of them as well as laughs and laughs from everyone who watched. Lena couldn’t help but bite her lip at the display of strength. After some grappling poor Barry found himself in an iron sleeper hold and having to tap out. Kara jumped up and offered him a helping hand and pulled him up. They were both red faced and sweating but were all smiles.
“Wouldn’t expect anything less than the 113 pound weight class 2008 All-State Champ.” Kelly clapped.
Kara blushed and waved her off. Lena couldn’t believe that Kara had ever been that small.
“You were a state wrestling champ?” said Lena.
“Yes ma’am.” nodded Kara. “But that was over a decade and forty pounds ago.” she chuckled.
“I have the picture if you want to see it.” smiled grandma.
Lena’s eyes widened impishly. “Oo, I have got to see this. I can’t imagine you being so small.”
Grandma led the way back into the house with Lena and Kara both in tow. She took them into the living room to a wall filled with pictures.
“There’s our girl.”
If it hadn’t been for the blonde hair and goofy grin Lena wouldn’t have recognized Kara. Kara noticed her reaction.
“Yeah…I was a bit of a string bean back then.”
Kara was wearing her royal blue singlet and her face was red and sweaty as she proudly stood with a gold medal around her neck. She was flanked by Eliza and Alex on her right and her grandparents on her left. There was a guy that looked a few years older than Kara that stood right next to her and had his arm hung over her shoulders and was sporting the same blue eyes and goofy grin.
“That’s my cousin Clark.” said Kara. “He surprised me by coming home from college a day early.”
“Good looks run in the family.” grandma winked at Lena.
Lena giggled. “Yes they do.”
Grandma got a curious look in her eye as she looked between her and Kara.
“Did you play any sports in high school?”
“Um, yes, actually.” Lena blushed faintly.
“Chess and horses. Right?” Kara supplied.
“Yep. I, uh, didn’t exactly go to a normal high school. My mother would have died rather than send me to public school.” Lena shook her head self-deprecatingly. “Anyways. I was the president of the chess club and I also did dressage, a little bit of polo, and fencing.”
You could have knocked Kara over with a feather.
“Fencing?” her eyes were wide. “Like sword fighting? You can fight with an actual sword?”
Lena laughed. “Yes but it’s called a foil. Or saber, which was what I preferred.”
“Oh wow.” Kara shook her head in disbelief. “You gotta tell Winn.”
“Why?”
“You just do. Trust me. His reaction alone will be worth it.” assured Kara.
Before they went back outside grandma showed Lena a few more pictures of Kara, and Lena couldn’t help but note that there didn’t seem to be any prior to middle school. Kara took them back outside and pulled Winn aside.
“What’s up?” said Winn.
Kara jerked her head at him. “Tell him.”
“Tell me what?”
Lena bit her lip. “Kara wanted me to tell you that I did fencing in high school. I actually went pretty far with it.”
Winn’s face was pure shock and he fell deathly silent. Lena glanced back and forth between him and Kara, who was trying not to laugh.
“I was particularly fond of the saber.” Lena continued slowly.
“Does that mean if I run home and get my LARPing lightsabers we could have essentially a professional duel between the two of us?” Winn rushed out breathlessly.
Lena looked him over before crossing her arms and arching a clever brow. “Only if I get to be Obi Wan.”
She couldn’t tell if Winn was going to puke or pass out. Kara snapped her fingers in front of his face.
“Earth to Winn…”
“Are you serious?” Winn’s voice audibly cracked.
“Yes, but maybe another time.” said Lena. “You might need to brush up on your skills if you’re going to go up against me.”
“Oh?” his voice cracked again. “I should have you know that I’m a top twenty lightsaber champ.”
Lena might have said it to Winn but she was looking at Kara the entire time. “I should have you know that I’m an Olympic medalist.”
The reaction from Kara was everything Lena hoped it would be: total awe.
“No!” Kara’s jaw dropped.
Lena nodded in the affirmative. Winn fumbled for his phone and quickly searched.
“Oh my god, she’s telling the truth!”
Kara grabbed the phone out of his hand. There, on the front page of the Daily Planet, the coverage of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, was a very young and fresh-faced Lena in her full kit standing on the podium, a bronze medal around her neck. The smile on her face was blinding. Kara’s heart melted.
“Oh my god, Lena! Holy shit! Wow! Just wow!” she met Lena’s gaze. “You look so happy too.”
Lena eyes were suddenly sad. “Yeah…yeah, I was.”
Kara’s brow furrowed but she didn’t get to inquire further as Winn loudly announced to everyone that he was one day going to duel an Olympic medalist who just so happened to be Lena. Everyone took their turn looking at the picture and at Lena surprise but with genuine smiles. And Lena felt like she could cry again. She felt a warm hand on her shoulder.
“You okay?” asked Kara.
“Yeah. I think I am.” and for once Lena meant it.
* * *
The sun was starting to set as Kara scrubbed away at the dishes while grandma dried them off. Her attention, however, was on Lena who she could see through the kitchen window. Lena was keeping Esme entertained while everyone cleaned up from the dinner.
“Your friend is quite lovely, Kara.” said grandma.
“Yeah, she’s pretty neat.” Kara smiled.
“Sweet too.”
“Yeah.”
Grandma cast a side-eye. “And cute.”
Kara instantly turned red and dropped the spoon she had been cleaning.
“Uh, um, yeah, I guess.” she fumbled. “But, ah, we’re…we’re just friends.”
“Mm.” hummed grandma.
“Besides…” Kara was close to rambling. “I don’t think she’s…you know…”
“Okay.” said grandma calmly as she dried off a plate.
“And even if she was—” Kara babbled. “—I don’t want to risk our friendship. I really, really like her, grandma. As a friend!” she clarified.
Esme suddenly burst through the back door with Lena in tow.
“Aunt Kara! Can Aunt Lena spend the night tonight?” Esme’s eyes sparkled.
Lena instantly blanched at looked at Kara with obvious fear in her eyes. Thankfully, Kara caught the look.
“I, uh, um, Lena doesn’t have her pajamas here.” said Kara.
“She can borrow mommy’s.”
Kara looked nervously back at Lena and then back at Esme.
“Not tonight, sweetie. Lena has a long drive home. Maybe another time?”
Esme rolled her eyes and dropped her shoulders. “Okay.” she looked at Lena. “Sorry, Aunt Kara said no.”
“It’s okay. We will figure it out another time.” Lena managed to smile back.
Esme scampered away back to her moms.
“Sorry about that.” Kara winced.
Lena did her best to brush it off. “It’s okay.”
“I think everything’s all finished up here, Kara.” said grandma. “If you two want to head out that’s fine. I know Lena has a bit of a drive back to the city.”
“You sure?” said Kara.
“I’m sure.”
“Well, okay then. Thanks for everything, grandma.” Kara bent over and gave her a hug and a kiss on the cheek. “Love you.”
Grandma mirrored her. “Love you too, kiddo.”
She looked over at Lena and waved her over for a hug as well. “Lena, it was so nice to meet you, dear. Come back any time. Okay?”
She gave Lena a kiss on the cheek as well and Lena once again found herself fighting tears.
“Okay. Thank you for everything tonight...grandma.”
Grandma smiled warmly. “You’re welcome. Drive safe.”
Kara and Lena said their goodbyes to Eliza, Alex, Kelly, and Esme before heading out.
* * *
The drive back to Kara’s house suddenly felt awkward.
“I still can’t believe you’re an Olympic medalist.” Kara finally broke the silence.
“It was only a bronze.” said Lena as she looked out the window, her mother’s own words slipping off her tongue with practiced ease.
“Only? Only?! Lena, are you serious? You’re a friggin’ medalist! Do you know how rare that is?” the awe still present in Kara’s voice was enough for the tears to start welling up.
“Tell my mother that.” Lena looked out the window.
Kara heard the tone and glanced over at her.
“Hey, I know I’ve said this a lot tonight, but are you okay?”
Lena balled her lips over her teeth and shook her head. “No. Yes. I don’t know. God, I’m sorry you keep seeing me like this.”
“What do you mean?”
Lena sniffed and wiped her eyes. “I guess I still don’t see why you want to be friends with me.”
Kara thought a moment. “You know, you keep sayin’ that like you think it’s gonna drive me away or somethin’.” she looked over at Lena. “You know I’m not going anywhere, right? Like, we’re friends now. It’s a done deal.” she cracked a grin. “You don’t know this about me but when I decide that someone’s going to be my friend, whelp, you’re pretty much not going to get a choice.”
Lena laughed wetly. “Oh, so I don’t get a say in whether or not I want to be a part of this friendship?”
“Nope.” Kara shook her head. “Like I said, done deal, Luthor.”
There was something in the way that she said her name that made Lena’s stomach clench. Kara continued after a beat.
“If you don’t mind me askin’ but why do you keep doubting yourself like that? You know you’re an awesome person.” she said genuinely.
Lena took a deep breath and sighed. “I…I didn’t exactly have the experience you had growing up.”
Kara nodded in agreement. “Considering you went to private school and played a sport that involved actual weapons…” she trailed off.
They pulled into her driveway.
“It’s more than that.” said Lena softly.
Kara turned off the truck but didn’t get out. “You wanna talk about it?”
Lena picked at the hem of her shirt. Everything was screaming at her to run away and her self-preservation instinct was in overdrive.
“I don’t know.” was all she was able to get out.
“Well…” Kara drew out. “I don’t have drinks but I got, like, a billion teas. Want some?”
“It’s getting late.”
“I know.” Kara played with her keys. “But I have a guest bed and you look like you need to talk.”
Lena was silent. Kara tried to meet her gaze.
“But you don’t have to if you don’t want to.”
Lena closed her eyes. “What kind of tea?”
Kara smiled softly. “Come on.”
They got out of the truck and went inside the house. Kara hadn’t been kidding when she said that Nia had called her style “bachelor pad-y”. It was obvious that the furniture was picked for its comfort but there had been a compromise to allow for a pop of color. The walls were nearly bare save for a handful of carvings and a picture collage of Kara and her family. There was a very large TV with what Lena could only assume as multiple video game consoles. The place was very clean, though. Kara led her back to the kitchen and opened up one of her cupboards. Half of it was filled with quart Mason jars filled to the brim with raw honey. She pulled out a few boxes of tea for Lena.
“You weren’t kidding about your sweet tooth.” Lena gestured to the jars.
Kara chuckled warmly. “Yeah. Clark has a few beehives on the farm. Tastes great and since it’s raw it has bee pollen in it that helps with seasonal allergies. You want to try some in your tea?”
“Sure.” Lena picked out a bag.
Kara grabbed one as well and got an old fashioned kettle going on the stove. She quietly got two mugs.
“Growing up as a Luthor there were certain expectations.” Lena started softly.
Kara looked at her but remained silently listening.
“I was supposed to be the smartest, be the most refined, and look down on anyone that didn’t measure up.” Lena continued. “My father…my father was a complicated man. When I was younger I remember him being attentive and what a father should be. But As I got older he had become hardened to the world and drank heavily. When I was eight he passed away, leaving me with my even more emotionally distant mother, Lillian. At first it wasn’t so terrible because at least I had Lex.” she shook her head. “But he’s nearly ten years older than me. So when he went off to college it was just her and I. That’s when things got worse. No matter what I did it was never right or good enough for her. Lex went to MIT, Cambridge, Harvard. But I only went to MIT and Cambridge. Lex has seven PhDs to my five.”
Kara wanted to say something but held her tongue.
“Lillian ran the Luthor Foundation while Lex was CEO of Luthor Corp and I was just ‘wasting my potential hiding away in a lab’.”
The kettle whistled and Kara poured the water. “Cream?”
“Yes, please.”
Kara grabbed a small glass bottle from the fridge. “It’s raw, fresh from the farm. Better for you than that crap at the store.”
They both fixed their teas and Kara gestured to the living room. They sat down on her couch on opposite ends facing each other.
Lena continued. “It was both a blessing and a curse the day that I got to help put both of them away.” she sipped her tea. “The one that had hurt the most was Lex. For years I just kept thinking that one day I might get my brother back. The one who helped me with my homework and who taught me how to play chess. Not the one who would go on cocaine benders and use me in his manipulative games with our mother.”
She wiped her eyes. “You want to know what the real tragedy is?”
Kara looked at her and waited.
“Lillian isn’t even my mother. She’s my step mother.” Lena’s laugh was empty. “That’s why she hated me so much. She told me that every time she looked at me all she saw was her and all she could think about was her husband’s betrayal.”
“What do you mean?”
“My father had an affair with my mother.” Lena sighed. “My mother, Elizabeth Walsh, was the daughter of his former boss, Kieran Walsh. The same man who created Walsh Technologies that L-Corp owns.” Lena shook her head. “I’m even named after him. Lena Kieran Luthor is my full name.” she sipped her tea, holding the warm mug in her suddenly cold hands. “My biological mother drowned in Ireland when I was four. It was an accident that I witnessed but could nothing to help her. And I’ve always blamed myself.” a single tear traced down her cheek as she stared off. “After that I was brought to the Luthors.”
Kara just sat in silence as it all sunk in and it made her heart hurt so much to think that Lena had been through so much since a young age. She wanted nothing more than to pull Lena into a hug and never let her go.
“I’m adopted too.” Kara said quietly.
Lena looked up at her. “What?”
Kara nodded. “The Danvers adopted me when I was thirteen after my parents died.”
Lena was silent.
“My parents had been friends with the Danvers’ for a long time, even after they had moved away from Midvale. So while Alex and I aren’t biological sisters, we’ve pretty much known each other all our lives.” Kara said fondly. “It, uh, it happened on New Year’s. We were coming back from a party when a drunk driver hit us.” her jaw clenched as she fought the tears. “I couldn’t save them. Somehow I had been ejected from the car and landed in a deep snow bank. By the time I came to there was so much smoke. I couldn’t get the doors open.”
Kara shook her head and cleared her throat. “They had been killed instantly. Looking back years later I can see that it was a small mercy.” she took a breath. “My cousin Clark had just started college so he couldn’t take me, so the Danvers did.”
So that’s why Grandma Danvers didn’t have any younger pictures of Kara.
She stared into her steaming mug. “I had…a lot of anger issues. Survivor’s guilt. Eventually, mostly thanks to Alex, I found myself again. I used that anger for my benefit and threw myself into sports. But then that led to its own problems after college. I, uh, became obsessed with working out.” she shook her head in shame. “I even used steroids for a year before finally coming to my senses.”
They both sat in silence.
Kara looked up at her. “You sure you want to be friends with me?”
Lena met her eyes with an unwavering gaze. “Yes.”
Kara grinned fondly. “Good. Glad we’re clear on that.”
They talked until well after midnight. Kara told her about her parents and growing up in Krypton county. She told her about how Clark’s parents had died in a house fire when he was a baby and how since her parents hadn’t been on speaking terms with his when it happened, that he had been adopted by a firefighter that had saved him. In turn, Lena had told Kara everything that she remembered about her mother and what her father was like before he changed. She talked about Lex, Kara talked about Alex. Lena talked about Lillian, Kara told her how Jeremiah had died when she was a freshman in high school and how Alex started drinking because of it. Lena talked about when she met Sam and then when she met Jack and how they had helped her though so much. Kara opened up about how no matter how many “friends” she was surrounded by that she had always felt incredibly alone, Lena echoed that sentiment.
They finally stopped when Lena yawned so hard her eyes watered. Kara gave her a t-shirt and a pair of shorts and dug around for a spare toothbrush she was certain she had.
“Here.” she offered it once she found it.
Lena couldn’t help but laugh. “It’s a child’s Minnie Mouse toothbrush.”
“Esme forgot hers one time so I got a spare just in case.” Kara shrugged. “If you have a hard time with cartoon themed things then don’t look at the My Little Pony sheets on the bed.”
That only made Lena laugh harder. Kara smiled.
“Bathroom’s down the hall on the left.”
“Okay.”
Kara stood a moment in the doorway of the guest bedroom debating with herself a moment.
“Hey, Lena?”
“Yeah?”
She walked over and wrapped her in a bear hug and held on tight.
“I’m sorry about everything you’ve been through.” her voice was muffled in her neck. “But I’m glad that you’re here. And that we’re friends.”
Lena found herself hugging her back just as tight, fighting tears for the umpteenth time.
“Me too.”
* * *
The smell of fresh coffee and bacon woke Lena up late the next morning. For a moment she had forgotten where she was and panicked. But after catching a glimpse of the cartoon pony themed sheet around her everything came back in stunning clarity. She hugged her blankets up under her chin as a warm feeling started in her chest and worked its way to her toes. She might have still been emotionally exhausted from the previous day, and night, but she was oddly…rested. What she had told Kara last night was nothing that Sam or Jack didn’t already know but it had felt different telling her. It was a catharsis that she hadn’t felt in…had she ever felt it before? There was something more behind the feeling but she couldn’t quite put her finger on it. Trust?
Kara had slept like a rock the entire night and had woken up feeling incredibly light. She smiled as she stared at the ceiling. Talking with Lena had been, in a word, amazing. The stuff that they had talked about were only things that either Alex or Barry had known in full. Emotional intimacy was something that she deeply craved and as much as she loved Barry and Alex, there was something different about being able to open up with Lena. They had both been so willing and so vulnerable with each other. So trusting. Kara practically jumped out of bed and started making breakfast. And when Lena came into the kitchen all soft with sleep she was overcome with the urge to hug her again.
“Morning!” she chirped happily as she flipped a chocolate chip pancake.
“Morning.” Lena smiled softly.
“Hope you like pancakes, bacon, and scrambled eggs.”
“Smells delicious.”
“Coffee’s ready. Got a mug over there for ya. Cream and sugar are out.”
“Oh, thanks but I take my coffee black.” Lena poured herself a cup and leaned up against the counter.
“Sleep good?” asked Kara as she plated breakfast.
“Actually…yes.” said Lena around her coffee.
“Good. Me too. Feel almost like I got a weight off of my chest.” she handed Lena a full plate.
“I think I agree.” said Lena as they sat down at the table.
Kara drenched her pancakes in syrup before passing it to Lena. “That’s real maple syrup. James gets it from his grandpa up in Michigan.”
“Is everything you eat up here fresh from the farm?” Lena teased.
Kara laughed. “No. But close enough.”
They started eating.
“Wow. Okay, I’m usually a waffle person but these are really good.” said Lena around a bite of pancake.
“Sunday morning special.” Kara winked. “So, um, I know yesterday was a lot, and feel free to say no. But…since the fourth is on a Monday this year Midvale is having its annual Freedom Fest and fireworks next Saturday. We have a get-together over at Alex and Kelly’s since they are close to where the fireworks will be launched. You wanna come? I know you’ve been doing a lot of driving lately.”
Lena pushed her eggs around for a moment. “Who all will be there?”
“Everyone that was there last night plus a few more.”
Lena bit her lip. “Um…sure. Would it be okay if I brought Sam and Jack? And Sam’s daughter Ruby?”
“Sure!” smiled Kara. “The more the merrier! And since Alex’s place has a lot more space there’ll be plenty of room for all. And, if you guys want, since the fireworks don’t happen until after sundown, you can all crash here afterwards.”
“You think you have enough space?”
“Sure. Sam and Ruby can have the guest bed. Jack can have the couch, and you can bunk with me.”
Kara didn’t notice the flush creeping up Lena’s neck.
“Or…you can have the couch and Jack can suck it up and sleep on the floor. I have a sleeping bag he could use.”
Lena cleared her throat. “Um, okay. You don’t need to but I’ll ask. They might just want to drive back.”
“Okay. If you guys wanna drive separate you can stay over again if you want.”
“I’ll think about it.”
Chapter 7
Notes:
I apologize for how chaotic this chapter is. Also, side note, no offense to Tyler and Bitsie but the only "country" Clark and Lois I picture is Tom and Erica.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
“She spent the night?” grunted Barry as he helped lift a pile of treated lumber.
“Yeah.” Kara grunted back as they moved it into place. “It was nice. We stayed up half the night talking. Kinda like how we used to.”
“What do you mean ‘used to’?” Barry held a board in place while Kara worked to anchor it. “We literally just pulled practically an all-nighter on our last shift.”
“Not what I meant, doofus. I mean like when we first became friends. That kinda stuff. We didn’t debate the Colts’ draft picks and how they fucked up the conference last year.” said Kara.
“Ah. So you told her about your parents.”
“Yup.”
“It was kinda inevitable though. I mean you did invite her to the family dinner. Like…straight out the gate.”
“Dude. I basically did the same thing with you.”
“Yeah, but we had worked together practically every day for a month. You’ve only hung out with Lena how many times?”
Kara ignored the question. “I don’t think it matters. The only thing that matters is that we get along really well and I like her.”
A Cheshire cat grin slowly spread across Barry’s face. “Oh. So you like her, huh?”
“Not like that.” Kara checked the mud sill. “I like her as a friend.”
“Sure. Sure.” Barry nodded as he helped put another board in place on the foundation. “I think you should go for it.”
Kara was silent a beat. “Even if I wanted to, I can’t. She’s not into girls.”
Barry haughtily put his hands on his hips. “Now how do you know that? Did she tell you she’s straight?”
“No.” Kara didn’t look at him and juggled the drill in her hands.
Barry sighed and walked over to her and put his hands on her shoulders. “You know I love you, right?—”
Kara eyed him suspiciously.
“—But you have horrible gaydar.”
Kara was less than impressed.
“I’m serious!” exclaimed Barry. “You didn’t see the way she was looking at you all night. Methinks that Lena is somewhat into the ladies. Or at least she might have a thing for you.”
Kara shook her head. “I can’t. I can’t risk it, Barry. I don’t want to do anything that might compromise our friendship. I don’t know what it is. I just…I just don’t think I could handle losing her.”
“Dude. You are so whipped it isn’t funny.”
Kara shot him a look. “I’m whipped? Says the guy that dropped over a hundred bucks in two weeks at the diner when it opened. And who not-so-covertly found out Iris’ schedule so that you ‘just so happened’ to eat there when she was working. Could you be any more obvious?”
“Well—” Barry tried to come up with a retort but fell short. “You know what? Doesn’t matter. I have a date with a gorgeous woman and you don’t. You’re just jealous.”
Kara’s face brightened. “You two have a date?”
“Yessir. Tonight. Actually. Gonna do a movie or something. I don’t really care what we see. I’m just stoked that it’s happening.”
Kara smiled and then cleared her throat and waited. Barry rolled his eyes and spoke in a monotone voice.
“Thank you, Kara, for telling Iris to ask me out.”
“That’s more like it!” Kara slapped him on the back.
They fell silent as they got back to work. Lena had been looking at Kara? When? How? She replayed that night over and over again. Had she missed something? Kara knew she had horrible gaydar but to miss out on a supposed “look”? Well, that just takes her “useless lesbian” status to a whole other level. Eventually, after spinning in a loop for a solid ten minutes she cracked.
“How was Lena looking at me?”
Barry thought a moment. “Definitely more than a friend. I don’t know. I guess fondly? Other than, you know, uh, she was basically smiling at you the entire time.”
Kara grinned lopsidedly. “Esme called her Aunt Lena.”
Barry’s eyes went wide. “She did not!”
“Yep.” Kara giggled. “She asked if Aunt Lena could spend the night. Even offered Kelly’s pajamas to her.”
“What did Lena say?”
Kara laughed harder. “She looked like a deer in headlights. Poor thing. I told Esme that she could maybe do it another time.”
Barry chuckled and pointed at her. “I think your niece knows something that you don’t.”
“Dude! Would you stop! We are just friends.” stressed Kara. “And if you keep this shit up she’s gonna take your spot as my best friend.”
Barry feigned an injury and clasped his hands over his heart. “You wound me.”
“Oh, it’s just a flesh wound. You’ll heal.” She anchored another board to the foundation. “I invited her to the party on Saturday. She’s even bringing a couple of her friends too.”
“That’s cool. Did you tell them what all we’re doing?”
Kara grinned mischievously. “Nope. Gonna keep it a surprise. But I told them to bring extra clothes and stuff.” her eyes glinted. “This is gonna be so much fun. I can’t wait to see her reaction.”
* * *
“Yes!”
Jack shouted so loud that it made Lena jump.
“You don’t even know what I was going to ask.” Lena shot him a look.
“I heard everything I needed to. Kara wants us to come up to meet her.” said Jack simply.
“I’d love to go.” added Sam.
“If you’d let me finish—” Lena leveled a look at them. “Since the 4th is on Monday, Midvale is having their fireworks festival on Saturday. Ruby is invited too.”
“Sure.” smiled Sam as she finished her lunch. “I’m sure she’d love it.”
“Okay. I’ll let her know you said yes. Oh, and apparently there are some things we need to bring.” she scrolled through her texts with Kara until she found what she was looking for. “We need to ‘bring grubby clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty’, bathing suits, ‘whatever regular clothes we want to wear later on’, and then a side dish and a desert. Oh, and any drinks we may want.”
Jack arched an eyebrow. “That’s an interesting list. Did she say what we’re doing?”
“No. She says it’s a surprise.” said Lena. “But after this weekend I would say we are in for a good time.”
Her phone dinged and she looked at it and laughed.
Sam quirked a brow. “Kara?”
Lena quickly typed something and then put her phone down. “Yes. She’s determined to make me a fan of metal music. She keeps sending me these random music videos. Some are…interesting. And some aren’t even metal but are European folk music or something.”
“Metal?” Jack raised his eyebrows. “I wouldn’t have pegged her a fan.”
Lena chuckled. “Well, to quote Kara: just because I’m country doesn’t mean I listen to it. And for every video she sends me I send her back something classical or swing or old school jazz. I’ll win her over to the right side soon enough.”
Her phone dinged again. This time it was a video of a llama slipping and sliding on a wet and icy bridge with funny music. Lena couldn’t help herself and laughed even louder. She smiled brightly as she tapped out a reply and sent it. When she looked back up Sam and Jack were giving her “the look”.
“What?”
Sam quirked another brow. “You like her.”
“Of course. We’re friends. Liking someone tends to be a prerequisite for friendship.” Lena deflected.
“No…” Jack leaned back in his seat. “You like like her. I haven’t seen that look since before you and Andrea started dating.”
Lena’s ears turned red despite herself and she looked at her hands. “I spent the night.”
Her friends looked positively scandalized.
“Not like that.” Lena sighed. “We just ended up talking for hours. She, um, she’s adopted too. We kind of…bonded…over childhood trauma.” Lena couldn’t help but smile. “It was nice. I don’t remember the last time I just sat and talked with someone for hours. Just getting to know them.”
Jack’s eyes zeroed in on her. “You have feelings for Kara.”
Lena was silent a moment. “Yes.” she said softly. “I think I do.”
“Are you going to tell her?” asked Sam.
Lena balled her lips over her teeth. “I don’t know.” she shook her head. “I don’t want to mess anything up.”
“Do you think she feels the same way?” Jack asked sincerely.
“Honestly? I have no idea. She keeps sending so many mixed signals. One minute I think she’s flirting and then the next she’s suggesting that we bunk together so that Sam and Ruby can take the spare bed and you can sleep on the couch this weekend.”
Jack cocked his head. “She wants to share the same bed with you and you find that confusing?”
“If the term ‘bunk down’ wasn’t clear enough her tone certainly conveyed it. She made it sound like we were two kids sharing a summer camp cabin.” said Lena.
“Then all the more reason we will be going to the party.” said Sam. “We can investigate! See if she likes you too.”
“Yes!” said Jack emphatically. His eyes suddenly widened with pure glee. “Oh my god! We could do that test thingy that they did in The L Word with that chef!”
Sam shared the same look. “Oo! We could get walkie-talkies!”
“No!” stated Lena firmly. “You will do no such thing! I will uninvited you right here, right now.”
“Fine. Fine.” said Jack. “But we could still do a little snooping. Won’t hurt anything. I promise Kara won’t have a clue.”
* * *
Kara had been a giddy mess all week. She and Lena had kept up a near constant stream of texts since Lena had gotten home from the weekend. They had traded music suggestions and Kara found herself liking quite a bit of what Lena had sent in return. And, to her credit, Lena had expressed interest in at least two bands with operatic singers. Unfortunately, Lena’s meme game was lacking significantly and Kara told her that she needed to let the “Meme Queen” Nia put her through an internet culture crash course ASAP. At least she had liked all of the funny animal videos. By the time Lena pulled into the driveway at 9:30 Kara felt like she was going to burst with excitement.
“Hey!” she had a thousand watt smile.
“Hey!” Lena smiled back.
Sam, Ruby, and Jack all got out of the car and Lena introduced everyone.
“What’s all that?” Jack pointed to the massive trailer that was hooked up to Kara’s truck.
“That is what we’re doing today.” Kara wagged her brows. “Hope you don’t mind a little mud.”
In the bed of Kara’s truck was a bright green dirt bike that was strapped down along with a large cooler and a backpack. On the trailer was a blue four wheeler and some sort of off-road vehicle that seated two. Kara rubbed her hands together and grinned.
“Alright. Anyone need a quick pit stop? It’s about a twenty minute ride to where we’re going.”
After a quick bathroom break they were on their way, bags thrown in the back of the truck while they crammed inside the cab. They made small talk along the way, Kara chattering away about the progress that they had made on Lena’s house. Kara couldn’t stop smiling and it seemed contagious because Lena couldn’t stop either. They had gone farther north and beyond the county line deeper into the countryside. After a while they turned off onto a very long dirt road. When they finally came into a large clearing Kara finally announced where they were.
“Welcome to Livewire Racing!”
Lena thought Kara looked like she was about to burst with excitement. Kara had brought them to a semi-pro motocross track. Even though it was only ten in the morning the place was nearing full. Kara carefully made her way through the open field that was the parking lot and pulled into a spot that had been saved for her. Apparently all of her friends and family were already there and waiting for her. There were several tracks. One was for something called a Supercross. It was very compact and had various technical jumps and obstacles. The other was for a Motorcross and was a much, much larger track that had enormous tabletop jumps and step-ups and long whoop-de-dos, also known as “whoops”. There was also a small track that had small jumps and Kara explained that it was used as both a BMX track and a kid’s track. And at the far edge of the property there was what looked like a mud drag race track that had a muddy lake in the center, for “mudding”. And finally there was a track that disappeared into the woods that was for any off-roading vehicle. The entire facility was decked out in American flags and red white and blue as far as the eye could see.
James, Winn, and Barry had all brought their bikes. Alex and Kelly had a similar two-seater as Kara, as did Lucy. Winn had also brought a similar four-wheeler. Nia and Brainy didn’t seem to have anything but they had their own riding gear that they brought. J’onn and M’gann were there too. J’onn had a bike and M’gann had a slightly blockier four wheeler than Kara’s. In addition to all of the various ATVs there were half a dozen new faces. A wiry blonde woman about Lena’s height came over and greeted Kara with an enthusiastic bro hug.
“Sara! You guys made it!” Kara clapped her on the back. “I thought you said that Ava was sick.”
A much taller blonde woman joined them. “I was. Nothing a little Zofran couldn’t fix.”
“Zofran?” Kara looked at her questioningly.
Sara and Ava shared a look.
“I’m pregnant!” shouted Ava excitedly.
Kara’s jaw dropped. “No way!”
“Yes!” smiled Sara. “Twelve weeks tomorrow!”
Kara pulled both of them into a real hug. “Oh my god! Congratulations! I’m so happy for you guys!”
Lena’s heart fluttered. Another lesbian couple?
Kara took a step back and pulled Lena to her side. “This is Lena. She’s going to be moving to Midvale soon. Lena, this is Sara and Ava. Sara is the one that briefly dated Alex in high school.”
Lena shook their hands. “Nice to meet you. And congratulations.”
“Thanks.” they both said.
They didn’t get too much further before Kara was bombarded by four more people and more hugs abounded. After several more rounds of introductions between all of Kara’s other friends, and then Lena’s friends, and Kara’s family, Lena was feeling a tad overwhelmed by everyone’s comfortable friendliness. She did her best to keep it all together.
Sara and Ava were recently married. Sara was a county cop and Ava was a detective. Oliver was the sheriff in the same county as Sara—which was also the county they were currently in. His wife Felicity, was a high school computer science teacher. Ryan and Sophie had come all the way from Gotham and owned a private security company there. Ryan and Kara had met during junior year of college. After all of the introductions Kara, J’onn, Winn, Barry, James, Ryan, Oliver, and Sara all got into their gear and got their bikes ready for the special 4th of July amateur race that was set to start soon. According to Kara, after the race all of the tracks would be open and the real fun would begin.
Lena sat nervously in the stands with everyone else. Grandma Linda noticed her nerves.
“Don’t worry.” she patted Lena’s leg. “Kara is an excellent rider.”
“I don’t doubt that. But I’m going to be honest, I have absolutely no idea what’s about to happen.” said Lena.
“You’re about to see why she’s called Supergirl.” winked Eliza.
Lena almost had to plug her ears from the roar of the engines as the riders pulled into the gates. She could just make out Kara in the pack of fifty. Bright Kawasaki green—that’s what Kara had called it—bike, blue boots, blue pants, blue top, and red helmet and goggles.
“When the gates drop it’s on.” explained Eliza.
Engines were revving like crazy. Suddenly, the gates dropped and it was pure chaos as the riders ripped out onto the track. Lena froze in panic a moment when one rider lost control and took out ten others but Kara, thankfully, had missed the fray and was tearing into the track. They were on the smaller Supercross track so Lena was able to essentially see the entire track. After the first three turns the herd had thinned out quite a bit with Kara in the top ten. Lena watched in rapt attention. Kara was hitting the ruts in the turns and berms with precision. She flew almost lazily over a medium sized jump. Lena didn’t know how much time had passed but soon enough Eliza was leaning over and telling her that there were only five laps left. Lena was on the edge of her seat. Kara was in second place and was having trouble trying to get around whoever was on a white bike—a Husqvarna apparently—white a rider in all black save a white helmet.
Last lap.
Kara made a break for it on the whoops and was neck in neck for first.
Last turn.
Kara took the chance and gunned it. Lena watched in awe as she cleared a nearly thirty foot jump across the finish line to snatch first. She leapt out of her seat and cheered with everyone else, a proud feeling swelling in her chest. Once the rest of the riders had finished the race Alex led the group down to the track to watch the small trophy ceremony. After getting her trophy a very muddy Kara came bounding over and gave Lena a hug without a second thought.
“So whaddya think? I can’t believe I won!”
“I had no idea what I was watching most of the time but you did great!” Lena laughed.
“Hey, Danvers!”
Kara spun around. A woman with nearly white hair, wearing black riding gear, strode up to her. She had a glare but it soon faded into a smirk.
“Nice ridin’.” she clasped Kara’s arm in a friendly handshake.
Kara smirked back. “Not bad yourself, Willis.”
Leslie tipped her chin at Lena. “Who’s the girlfriend?”
Lena instantly blushed.
“This is Lena. And, uh, she’s not my girlfriend.” Kara seemed flustered. “We’re just friends.”
“Oh. Sorry.” Leslie shrugged. “My bad.”
“Leslie own the place.” explained Kara. “Every 4th she puts on this open amateur race. And this year I finally got her.”
Leslie smirked again. “Took ya long enough, blondie.”
They both laughed.
“So you gonna ride today, Lena?” asked Leslie.
Lena looked over at Kara.
“Hell yes she is!” smiled Kara.
“Oh I am, am I?” Lena’s brows were up to her hairline.
“Yep. That’s part of the surprise.”
Lena shook her head and pointed at her bike. “I don’t think my feet will even touch the ground on that thing.”
“Oh—” Kara drawled. “—you’re not going to be riding that.”
* * *
Lena was screaming in pure delight as Kara drove like a bat out of hell through the muddy trail in the woods in her Polaris RZR, aka a “side-by-side”. Mud was flying everywhere but Lena didn’t care. She held on for dear life as Kara took a hard turn and sent a wave of muddy water splashing. Her stomach dropped as they jumped a hill and kept going. It was pure exhilaration. The entire afternoon had been. Kara taught her how to ride the four wheeler, also known as a quad, and Lena had even done a few laps on the kids’ track. Jack tried his hand on Barry’s bike. Alex took Ruby for a quad ride while Kelly took Sam on a slightly tamer side-by-side ride through the woods. Grandma Linda even took her turn on the quad too, much to Lena’s surprise—although it was a very slow ride. Lunch had been a grab-and-go affair at the concession stand. After a few hours everyone cleaned up as best they could in the outdoor showers. Almost the entire ride back to Kara’s house Ruby was chattering away like crazy about getting to drive M’gann’s quad—which was much slower and much safer than the rest—and about all the fun she had with Esme. They stopped long enough at Kara’s for her to unhook the trailer and for them to clean up a little more and change before heading back out to Alex and Kelly’s for dinner. Jack had offered to drive Lena’s car separately so that they didn’t have to cram back into the truck. Before leaving, Kara grabbed a few strange looking cases and put them in the back seat of the truck.
Kara regaled Lena with all of the intimate details of the race the entire ten minute drive and Lena was all smiles the entire time.
Alex and Kelly’s house was quite large and they had a huge back yard. Their nearest neighbor was nearly three hundred yards away. And it would seem that the introductions weren’t over as four more faces joined the party. Lena knew who they were before even being introduced. She recognized the dark hair and blue eyes almost immediately.
“Clark! Lois!” Kara jogged over and gave them hugs.
“Aunt Kara! Aunt Kara!” shouted two hyper twin boys as they tackled her, they looked to be about eight years old.
“Hey, Jon! Hey, Jordan! Missed you guys today!” Kara hugged them.
The twins both produced blue ribbons. “We won!”
Kara’s eyes widened. “That’s awesome! I bet Krypto and Streaky were happy to win best goats at the fair.”
Kara got back up and pulled Lena to her side yet again. “Clark, Lois, this is my friend Lena. She’s moving to Midvale. I’m actually building her house right now.”
More handshakes. Lena couldn’t believe the ease that Kara had when pulling her close to her side. It took everything she had to not melt into the gesture. She jolted hard as multiple gunshots suddenly rang out.
“Aw man, they started without me.” whined Kara.
Lena looked at her with wide eyes. “What is going on?”
Kara grinned impishly. “Your next country lesson for the day.”
* * *
Lena held the shotgun like it was a snake that was going to bite her at any moment.
“It’s not going to hurt you, Lena.” Kara laughed.
That didn’t make her feel any better. Kara had gone through a short but rigorous teaching moment on gun safety and trigger discipline, but Lena still felt ill-prepared for what was about to happen. Thanks to the spacious back yard and total lack of neighbors behind the house, Alex and Kelly had set up their own private shooting range, complete with professional targets and a backstop made of dirt piled high. Kara had already shown off some impressive skills but was quickly outshined by the likes of Oliver, Sara, Ava, Alex, and Kelly. The bright orange clay discs that they shot at were launched into the sky and were called “clay pigeons”, according to Kara. The shotgun shells that they were using were specialized mini bean bags specifically made for skeet shooting—the name of the sport.
Lena’s heart rate raced, not because of the rifle in her hands, but because they way that Kara’s hands brushed against her as she put on the ear protection. The way that she stood behind Lena and helped her set the butt of the gun into her shoulder and line up a practice shot at a target. Lena missed the warmth that Kara radiated as she stepped back and let Lena shoot. The gun certainly had a kick that Lena wasn’t prepared for. She missed the rings of the target but had managed to at least hit the backdrop it was tacked to. Kara still cheered. And after making sure to safely put the gun down, she picked Lena up in a hug and spun her around, praising her for doing such a good job. Lena knew her face was completely flushed and for once had never been so grateful for a nearly sweltering hot summer day. She shot the shotgun a few more times and even managed a little beginner’s luck and hit a pigeon. There was a plethora of other rifles for her to try if she wanted but she ended up picking a small handgun. Kara went over the safety protocols once again and showed her how to load it and aim, along with another stern warning to hang on tightly. The kick that the handgun had was smaller than the rifle but it still acted like it wanted to jump out of her hands. And for that very reason she was more than ready to hand it over after a couple of shots. She finished just in time to see Jack whine about the kickback of Oliver’s 12-gauge double-barrel Remington. Sam had taken like a fish to water with Alex’s revolver much to Lena’s surprise. Ruby, Esme, and the twins were otherwise engaged in a water balloon fight as the adults had their fun while Lois, Nia, Brainy and Grandma Linda supervised.
The potluck-style dinner had gone just as well as the previous. There was pleasant talks and lots of laughter to go around. Lena was pulled into so many different conversations it left her head spinning, but in a good way. It was strange, though, while she had been initially overwhelmed, she had fallen into comfortable lockstep with the flow of the day. It helped that Kara seemed to be openly tactile with her and hardly straying from her side. An arm around her hip or draped across her shoulders. A gentle touch to her arm or hand. And plenty of hugs and smiles. Lena didn’t even realize what was happening until it was too late.
She was falling in love with Kara.
* * *
Kara was riding high all day long with no end in sight. Lena had been having so much fun as did her friends Sam and Jack, even Ruby. She knew she was pushing it with how physical she was getting with Lena, but in her defense Lena was very touchable and she couldn’t help herself. It was just so…it was just so easy with Lena. They were both comfortable around each other and Kara swore she felt Lena lean into her at least once. All day long what Barry had said about Lena liking her was playing on loop in her head as much as she tried to ignore it. And as she sat next to Lena and watched her watch the fireworks explode above them and the huge smile that was on her face, Kara realized something extremely important. She was falling in love with Lena.
As the night came to a close they all said their goodbyes and headed back to Kara’s house. Jack carried a sleeping Ruby into the house while Lena helped a slightly tipsy Sam. Kara got Jack a pillow and some blankets as they all puttered around getting ready for bed since it was nearly midnight and everyone was finally feeling the draining effects of the day’s excitement. Kara had quickly gotten ready and then let Lena take her time in the bathroom. She laid in bed, the only light coming from a small bedside lamp, and stared at the ceiling cursing herself. When she had originally offered for Lena to bunk with her that had been a week ago. A week ago when they were just friends. A week ago when Kara wasn’t in love with her.
Lena took her time getting ready for bed. There was no way she was going to be able to sleep tonight. The thought of being next to Kara for the next several hours was causing a not-unfamiliar throbbing low in her hips. And seeing Kara reclined and relaxed in bed did nothing to stop it.
Lena climbed into the cool sheets and braced herself for a long night of no sleep. Kara turned off the light and the house was silent save the snoring that could be heard from Jack out in the living room, despite the door being closed. Lena could hear the frogs and crickets chirping outside as they both lay in silence. After a minute Kara turned on her side to face her.
“So…” she said quietly. “Did you have fun today?”
Despite herself, Lena gave in and turned on her side to face Kara.
“Yeah.” she smiled. “I really did. I can’t remember the last time I had that much fun. And I’ve certainly never had that type of fun before.”
Kara chuckled softly. “I’m glad you had fun. Think you would ever want to do it again sometime?”
“Like as in next year?” asked Lena.
“No, but yes. I mean, yeah we could do it again next year, but I mean, would you like to come up again some weekend and go riding again or something?”
“Only if I get to drive the RZR.” Lena bit her lip.
Kara’s eyes lit up. “You wanna try?”
“Mmhmm.” Lena nodded.
“Well alrighty then.” Kara smiled.
They lay in the darkness looking in each other’s eyes for a bit.
“Hey, Lena.” Kara whispered.
“Yeah?” Lena whispered back.
Kara bit her lip as if she were weighing her words.
“Do…do you think we’ve ever met before?”
“What do you mean?”
“Like in a past life or somethin’.”
“I don’t know. Maybe. Why?”
“’Cause I feel like I’ve known you my whole life.”
Lena’s breath caught in her chest. “Me too.” she whispered even quieter.
Kara’s eyes sparkled. “I know it’s kinda juvenile but…do you think we’ll be friends for the rest of our lives?”
Lena smiled softly. “I hope so.”
Notes:
Here's Kara and Lena's playlist of songs they sent each other.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU-LBC6oFCjFaQuz8aAZ9gWfYHtGdlabn
Chapter 8
Notes:
Show of hands: anyone else just as dense as Kara when it come to girls flirting with them and also not realizing that they too are flirting without knowing it? Anyone? Bueller? Just me? Cool.
Oh and if anyone's interested here's that Llama video. Or maybe it's an alpaca. Idk.
https://twitter.com/Yoda4ever/status/1530579659523428357?t=yiQoYUW1kb_Cuizd1tdQ1g&s=19
Chapter Text
The first thing Kara noticed when she woke up the next morning was how incredibly soft and warm her bed was, not that it usually wasn't, but this time it was exceptionally amazing. The night before she had made up her mind to cook everyone a nice breakfast with plenty of coffee for Sam and her inevitable hangover, but her sleepy mind just wanted her to stay rooted to her spot. As she slowly gained more awareness her brain came to an audible screeching halt.
Lena was sleeping in her bed.
Lena was sleeping in her bed with her.
Lena was sleeping in her bed with her and was also currently the little spoon and their legs were tangled together.
Kara. Panicked.
Her mind suddenly was racing and going every detail of any sleepover with friends she had ever had. There were a handful of times that she shared a bed with a friend both before and after she came out, but not once did she wake up like this with them. She very distinctly remembered one night after partying hard that Nia was in her bed and woke up quite literally with Nia’s foot smooshed in her face and the other in her ribs. The only time she had woken up with someone like this was...
Kara's heart was pounding. Friends don't hold friends like this. Wait. Do they? Her mind suddenly went off on a tangent. Do straight girls do stuff like this with their friends? Maybe? If they do they certainly don't wake up in a gay panic unless it's some sort of awakening. So maybe this was normal for Lena? But what if Lena likes women too like Barry said she might? Or what if she just likes Kara and doesn't even consider herself gay in any way?
As Kara debated with herself about whether or not to try and get up without waking Lena—good luck considering she's sleeping on your arm doofus—Lena sighed in her sleep and snuggled closer to the wonderful heat source at her back. Her ass pressed harder into Kara's hips and Kara felt herself turn bright red. She slowly and carefully moved her free arm away from Lena’s hip.
No dice.
Lena stirred. If she was just as panicked as Kara she didn't let it show. She stilled for a moment before rolling over to stretch, blessedly freeing Kara's trapped arm. Kara mirrored her movements and tried her best to look like she had not just woken up in a full gay panic.
Lena looked over at her a smiled sleepily. "Morning." her voice was low and raspy and it sent chills down Kara's spine.
"Morning." Kara smiled back.
Lena felt chills run down her spine as well, Kara's voice was sinfully low and gravelly first thing in the morning.
"Sleep okay?" asked Kara.
"Yes." Lena yawned. "I could probably sleep all day. Yesterday was fun but a different kind of exhausting that I'm not used to."
Kara chuckled low in her chest. "I bet. I'm surprised you even have a voice after all that screaming you did."
Lena chuckled too. "In my defense you are a crazy driver, Kara Danvers. I see now why those things have roll cages."
Kara flashed her lopsided grin. "I rolled it once. It wasn't bad but yeah, definitely grateful for roll cages and racin’ straps." she rolled over on her side. "You really want to try drivin’ it?"
Lena bit her lip and nodded. Kara's smile grew.
"Cool."
Kara stretched again and finally got out of bed. "You can chill for a few more minutes here if you want. I'm going to start makin’ breakfast."
"Want some help?"
"Sure. The more the merrier."
They worked quietly so as to not wake everyone else up yet, sharing smiles and talking in hushed voices about the day before. Ruby was the first to wake up, followed by a still-sleepy Jack and then a zombie-like Sam. Kara promptly gave her some aspirin and a steaming mug of coffee. They all sat together at Kara's table and relived the fun and excitement from the day before. Ruby had begged Sam to bring her back and Kara assured her that they were welcome any time and that Esme had a blast playing with her.
"Now that we've come to your neck of the woods I think it's time you come hang out with us. At least once." said Jack. "We can show you how to have fun without mud." he chuckled warmly.
"Unless you want to go get a mud mask as a spa." added Sam.
Kara giggled. "Sure. I don't see why not. Lena has made plenty of trips up here. Besides, I haven't been to the city in, like, five or six years."
"Awesome!" smiled Jack. "We will have to take you to Lena's favorite club."
Kara's face blanked. "Club? As in dancing and drinks?"
"Yes. What other kind of club is there?" Jack quirked a brow.
Kara cleared her throat. "Uh, well, I'm gonna have to do some shoppin' then. Somethin' tells me that chinos and a button down from Kohl's ain't gonna cut it."
"Nonsense." Sam waved her off. "If you come down early enough Lena and I can take you shopping."
"Really?”
"Sure." Lena answered for her.
"Okay." Kara looked between them. "But you should know I hate shoppin'. It's like pulling teeth for me."
"Well we will make it fun." said Sam. "Can you come next weekend?"
Kara shook her head. "No. I switched one of the guys at the station so I could have yesterday off so I'm workin' all next weekend. But I'm free the Saturday after that."
Sam looked pointedly at Lena. "Great. So are we."
Lena shot her a look that went unnoticed by Kara as she shoved more pancake into her mouth.
* * *
The next two weeks went by agonizingly slow. Kara would provide daily picture, and sometimes video, updates of the house. The heat wave had sped things up considerably for the building timeline and they already had the mud sill and all of the basement finished and were working on the joists and frame of the first floor. While Lena had enjoyed them it only served as a reminder that she didn't know if she was going to move to Midvale permanently or just continue her weekend visits. What made things worse is that she had woken up every single morning since that morning wishing that there was a certain heat source next to her. She may have been awake when she had pressed herself back into Kara and she may have known exactly what she was doing. At first she had panicked at their closeness but after Kara's continuously confusing signals the day before, Lena had decided to put things to the test and maybe finally figure out things once and for all. The moment she felt Kara's heart hammering in her chest and saw just how red her ears were Lena was 80% sure that she was right and that Kara liked her too. Had she not been such a coward and afraid of losing her as a friend she would have spoken up, but she didn't. And so she had no one to blame but herself. They kept up their constant texting and had even moved on to phone conversations that would last an hour at a minimum. Kara had called her the Sunday morning that she was working at the station and had told her about a serious accident that had happened the previous night.
An Amish kid--read 19 year old--who had been partying during his Rumshpringa had drunkenly caused an accident. He blew through a stop sign at an intersection of a busy state highway and a minivan T-boned the horse. The kid was fine but the driver of the van had to be Life-Flight’d to the nearest level 2 trauma center and had nearly died on scene. Kara sent pictures of the aftermath. The horse had crushed the entire front of the van and had gone up and into the windshield, caving it in on the driver. The horse, unfortunately, had still been alive when they got on scene but was too horribly injured so one of the police officers had to put it down. Despite the horrible situation Kara had done her best to make things light, no doubt a coping mechanism, and had made a joke about crop circles coming from drunk Amish and not aliens. She then proceeded to tell another story where a county officer had found a horse and buggy wandering through a field with the driver nowhere to be found. They eventually found him and the man was coked out of his mind and had forgotten to tie the horse up. Apparently there was a big problem in the Amish community with cocaine use. Which was followed by another joke about how fast they can build barns.
"I'm serious, Lena. Nearly ten years ago we had these gnarly tornadoes rip through most of northern Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio that destroyed this massive barn in a neighboring county. I shit you not, once they got all the materials this 10,000 plus square foot barn was rebuilt in three fucking days."
"Maybe I need to hire them in my engineering department." Lena laughed.
Lena had found herself wanting to spend every minute she could with Kara and it was unnerving. She couldn't remember ever feeling this way about someone, even a friend, before. For some reason it was different with Kara compared to Sam and Jack. Yes, she had had intimate conversations with them but with Kara it had felt...deeper? She thought back to what Kara has said about them knowing each other in a previous life. The more that she had thought about it the more that it felt like it was more a certainty than a possibility.
Little did Lena know that Kara was having those same thoughts. While she was incredibly close with Barry, things had felt deeper with Lena. At first she had attributed it to her growing crush and potentially the "lesbian urge to merge" as well, but Kara could tell that what was happening was more than just an attraction. It was a house. It was Christmas with her family and New Years with Sam and Jack. It was kids.
The day dream sat like a rock in her gut because she knew that it would most likely never happen. Because Lena was straight and Kara didn't want to potentially scare her away by questioning it. She saw first-hand what it had done to Alex in high school with her best friend Vicky. And Kara was not about to risk losing Lena in that way. A longing heart is better than a broken one.
While Kara agonized over Lena's potential sexuality, Lena was devising a plan, one that would hopefully help her figure out where Kara stood and clue the woman in. If it didn't work and Kara brought it up Lena could just lie and pretend that she didn't know what Kara was talking about. But if it worked...
Kara had never seen Lena on any sort of formal wear or anything outside of casual cute comfort, cue Lena and the most devastating outfit she owned, waiting and ready.
Since Kara had shown Lena around the worksite and her shop, Lena had only felt it fair to show her around the office. It was a big step, letting someone in like that, and Lena was incredibly nervous for it. Kara had taken off work a little early on Friday and was supposed to be at the office around five which meant that Lena had eight hours to get herself together. She had planned a small tour and felt it best to do it when most, if not all, of her employees were gone for the day in order to avoid unwanted questions. It was also a chance for Lena to test Kara’s reaction. She might have purposely worn her favorite cranberry colored suit and she might have purposely worn a collared, sheer lace top and a matching bra underneath with killer heels. Her hair was pulled back into a high pony and she was sporting her signature fierce red lip. Kara didn’t stand a chance. She informed security about Kara visiting and then waited.
Not two minutes after Kara texted that she was there Jess was showing her into the office. Poor Kara was already in disbelief as she checked out her surroundings and by the time her eyes landed on Lena they went from wide as saucers to wide as dinner plates. Lena covered up her sly smile with one full of genuine friendship.
“Kara!” she walked over to her.
Kara was very obviously checking her out and seemed to sense she was caught went she met Lena’s gaze and turned bright red.
“Hey!” Kara smiled. “This place is amazing! Dude! Look at that view!”
They hugged. And Kara went over to look out the window for a moment.
“I feel a little underdressed in jeans.” she laughed nervously as she turned back around. “This place is so fancy. You’re so fancy. You look great, by the way.”
The way that the jeans pulled across her thighs Lena was inclined to disagree.
“You ready for the tour?” the way Lena’s eyes were sparkling there was no way Kara could say no.
Since they were on the top floor Lena started with her office and then they made their way to the board room. They breezed through several departments and ended at Lena’s favorite place: the lab. Kara was walking around wide-eyed and beyond impressed. Lena excitedly explained what all of the equipment was and how it was used. It warmed Kara’s heart to see Lena so happy, so on fire, for something. The longer they stayed down there talking the more it became clear to Kara that this was Lena’s happy place, not her office.
Since they weren’t planning on shopping until tomorrow afternoon Lena had decided that they would first go back to her place to drop off Kara’s truck, and to change into shoes that were a little more comfortable. Instead of driving Lena suggested that they take a walk to the park that was nearby and then to a little bistro not too much farther away. As usual the conversation just flowed between them with uninterrupted ease and was punctuated with laughter. After dinner they walked back through the park with gelato and Lena finally told the whole story of how she even ended up in Midvale in the first place. Kara laughed but told her that it would probably be funnier if she knew what the movie was about. That’s how they ended up in their pajamas on Lena’s couch watching “Under the Tuscan Sun”. Kara couldn’t help herself and was dishing out fixer-upper tips to Diane Lane and explaining the process to Lena at the same time. Lena was secretly hoping that Kara would catch on to the underlying love story but other than a few throw-away comments she didn’t seem too interested. Maybe it was because it was a heterosexual couple?
After the movie the night was still young so Kara decided to pick out the next movie: The Beverly Hillbillies. It was silly and absurd and yet somehow Lena could see Kara very nearly fitting in with the Clampetts and found herself laughing to the point of tears thanks to Kara’s cackles. They had to briefly pause the movie when Lena questioned whether Kara would win or Ellie May would win in a wrestling match. Kara ended up getting deep into the technicalities of why Ellie May’s technique literally only worked in the movies, but still was passionate that she could beat her. Lena made a throwaway remark about Kara needing to show her how to properly wrestle some time and Kara turned beet red. Interesting. They finished the movie and turned in for the night in separate beds this time.
* * *
Kara nervously fidgeted with her clothes and checked herself out in the mirror. She looked hella good in the outfit that Sam and Lena had picked out for her but it didn’t ease her nerves about going to a club for the first time in her life. It didn’t help that she had zero dance skills and wasn’t exactly a fan of overly crowded places, but dammit, she was going to do this for Lena. Because that’s what friends do. They do things that make their friends happy even if they themselves don’t 100% like it.
“How does it look?” Kara could hear Lena through the door.
She took a deep breath and walked out.
“Hot!” blurted Sam.
Kara blushed and looked at Lena. It took Lena a moment before she found her words.
“Looks great! I think it suits you very well.” she managed with a smile.
“Really?” Kara looked down at herself.
She was wearing tight gray slacks and a long-sleeved black button down that she had rolled up over her forearms. Her shoes were black polished loafers that she wasn’t exactly a fan of but Lena had made things better by finding her a pair of “no-show” socks so that helped with the comfort—she didn’t feel like her feet were going to sweat her right out of the shoes.
Sam walked over and straightened out her collar a little.
“Oh yes. The ladies at the club are going to love you.” Sam winked.
Lena didn’t think it was humanly possible to turn that shade of red.
“I—well…you…o-okay.” stammered Kara.
“You are single, right?” asked Sam.
“W-well…y-yes? But-but I’m not really looking.” Kara jammed her hands in her pockets and scuffed her foot on the floor.
Sam didn’t miss a beat. “That doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy looking. Or being looked at for that matter.”
Kara ended up getting the outfit, courtesy of Sam despite both Lena and Kara’s protests.
* * *
The club was exactly what Kara thought it would be but also…not. Yes, there was loud music and colorful lights that lit up the dark, but it was also more elegant than she expected. People weren’t mindlessly grinding on each other on the dance floor nor were they jumping around like they were at a rave. She figured that there was not a single person here that made under six figures or was arm candy for those that did. Sam, Jack, Kara and Lena were tucked away in their own booth talking. Kara was nursing her second Guinness—she wasn’t a fan of the hard stuff. Sam and Jack looked completely in their element as did Lena. And Kara couldn’t take her eyes off of her.
Kara fussed with her hair as she put it up in a clean bun, trying to make sure that not a single hair was out of place. She had been sweating so hard from nerves that she had to take a quick sink bath before getting dressed. The clothes that Sam bought her really did look good and Lena had polished it all off with a simple silver chain necklace. As Kara looked at herself in the mirror she almost didn’t recognize herself, she looked like she was some sort of professional athlete, not a simple carpenter. She blew out a breath and went into the living room to wait for Lena—she was still in awe at the size of her penthouse and part of her wondered if Midvale really would be enough for her. Her mind briefly went into dangerous territory and wondered if she would be enough for Lena. But any thought she was having was gone the moment Lena stepped out of her bedroom. Kara was fairly certain her heart paused for a solid ten seconds. Lena was wearing a skin tight black dress that showed off her curves. The sleeves—if they could be called that—were off the shoulder and around her upper arms, leaving the majority of her chest bare. Kara’s eyes raked over the miles of soft pale skin dotted with freckles, ample chest, elegant collar bones, and up a sleek neck. Lena’s hair was straight and hung down her back. Her eyes were a smoky black and her lips were a dark crimson. Kara had never really cared for heels but the black stilettos with red soles that Lena was wearing were giving her ideas.
Jack had been the one to drag Kara to the dance floor first, seemingly hell-bent on teaching Kara how to properly dance. It was quite the spectacle that Sam and Lena couldn’t help but giggle at. For all of Kara’s athleticism she was woefully left-footed. It took some time but eventually Kara was comfortably “dancing” in a similar manner as Kevin James’ character in Hitch. Sam dragged Lena onto the floor and they had fun dancing as a group for a couple of songs before going back to their booth for another round of drinks. Things had been going well until Kara saw Lena’s face fall and suddenly turn ice cold. She turned to see what Lena was looking at. A beautiful woman was walking over to their booth.
“Lena, hi.” said the woman.
“Andrea.” Lena’s voice was clipped.
Kara watched the tense exchange.
“It’s good to see you.” Andrea tried to sound casual.
“Mm.” Lena practically grunted in response.
“I heard you bought a property up north.” Andrea tried one last time.
“You did, did you?” Lena was ice cold.
An awkward silence fell between them.
“Do you…do you think we could go somewhere and talk?” asked Andrea.
“I’ve already told you that there’s nothing to talk about. It’s been over between us for three years.”
Kara’s brain skipped like a record.
Had Lena been in a relationship with Andrea?
Andrea looked wounded. She moved to speak when another woman came up around her from behind and slinked an arm around her waist. Lena went from ice to pure evil. She cocked her head to the side and looked from the woman to Andrea.
“Lena!” the woman dragged out her name in a stereotypical socialite fashion. “My, my, my, it’s been too long.”
“Veronica.” Lena’s voice was pure venom.
Sam came to Lena’s rescue. “Really, Andrea? You couldn’t have Lena so you went dumpster diving?”
Jack jumped right in and joined her. “Couldn’t have the real thing so you settle for scraps.” he clicked his tongue. “Desperate is not your color, honey.”
Veronica shot them both daggered looks. Kara could feel that Lena was as rigid as a board and her spine was ramrod straight. Veronica turned her daggers to Kara.
“Who’s tonight’s flavor? She certainly looks yummy.” Veronica purred in a manner that made Kara flash with anger.
Before Lena could answer Kara was standing up and was eye to eye with the snake-like woman—befitting considering the snake tattoo that wrapped around her arm.
“Kara. I’m a friend of Lena’s.” Kara dropped her voice into her chest in order to project it. She used every ounce of her imposing frame. “If you ladies don’t mind we were having a nice night and would like to continue it without any more interruptions.”
Andrea looked around Kara at Lena. “Lena, please, it’s about Lord.”
“We’re done, Andrea.” bit Lena.
Andrea knew she lost and nodded her head in defeat. “I’m sorry for bothering you.”
She turned and pulled Veronica away with her. Kara waited until they were out of sight and then sat back down next to Lena.
“Who was that?” she asked.
Lena finished off her drink in one go and nearly slammed down her glass on the small table.
“My ex.”
The words hit Kara like a two ton boulder.
Lena is gay.
Lena is gay.
Kara could already hear Barry’s “I told you so”. She cursed her non-existent gaydar and was mentally kicking herself all over the place.
Five points from Gryffindor…
…and ten points for Dumbass…
“Your ex?” Kara’s voice cracked.
“It’s a long story.” Lena mumbled as she took Jack’s drink and finished it off as well.
“I think maybe it’s time to go.” said Sam, she shot a worried look to Kara that told her everything she needed to know.
“Yeah.” said Jack. “Tonight’s kind of dead anyways.”
Lena put up no fight and was silent the entire car ride back to her place. Sam needed to get back to Ruby but Jack had offered to stay and talk, but Lena had insisted she was fine. She was silent the entire elevator ride up and the silence continued once she and Kara were in her penthouse. Of all the ways she thought her night was going to go, Lena sure didn’t think that this was going to be it. Everything was ruined. The night had been so much fun but was now soured.
Kara quietly closed the door behind her. “I, uh, I know you said that you didn’t want to talk about it…but, uh, you know I’m here for you if you want to.”
Lena angrily kicked off her heels into her bedroom and started pacing. It wouldn’t have been so bad if it had just been Andrea, but Veronica…that was a whole different beast—literally. She gathered her hair off of her neck and fanned herself.
“Lena? Are you okay?” Kara was starting to worry.
Lena stopped and put her hands on her hips and stared at the floor for a moment.
“Andrea and I were together for two years. I broke it off with her three years ago. And just over a month ago she had the nerve to present a proposal to me to buy Walsh Technologies. She knew I would never sell it, yet that didn’t stop her.” Lena ranted. “She then had the audacity to partner with my brother’s ex-business partner who stole my designs!”
“That’s that Lord guy you told me about, right?” Kara put her hands in her pocket.
“Yes.” Lena was close to pacing again. “And don’t even get me started about Veronica. She was a rebound after Andrea and the worst decision of my life. What had started out as a one night stand had turned into three months of emotionally manipulative hell. She was cheating on me the entire time, had developed a heroine problem, and was trying to use my name, my reputation to further her own status. Then! Then! She had the unmitigated gall to gaslight me and tell me that I was the crazy one!”
Lena was nearing the point of tears. She closed her eyes and shook her head and smiled sadly. “Everyone just uses me for my name or my money. All they see is status and what they could gain.”
Her lip quivered and she shut her eyes tight against the onslaught of tears. Kara instantly wrapped her in a tight hug. Lena softly cried.
“Don’t you listen to a word they say.” said Kara. “You are the kindest, smartest, most incredible person I have ever met. They don’t deserve you. No one does. You are too good for any of them.”
That only served to make Lena cry harder as she desperately held on to Kara.
“I don’t know how people can be so mean like that. Like it means nothing.” Kara shook her head. “It’s just so…shallow. It actually kinda makes me feel bad for them. They think money is the end-all be-all and are crazy superficial. They don’t realize that there is so much more to life.”
She pulled back and cradled Lena’s face and looked deep into her eyes, trying to convey the full weight of her words.
“You deserve the world, Lena. Don’t ever sell yourself short.”
Lena searched clear blue eyes and saw nothing but love reflected in them.
Fuck it.
Lena gripped Kara’s hips tightly and kissed her. It only lasted a second as her better sense screamed at her to stop. She pulled back, eyes wide with fear. Kara looked like she was in another world. Her eyes were heavy and lidded and blown out.
“Oh…” she breathed.
Lena panicked. “Oh my god! Kara, I’m so—”
Her words were cut off as Kara pulled her back in for another kiss, this one deeper and full of unspoken feelings. Lena couldn’t help the whimper that escaped as she melted into Kara’s arms. Warmth flooded through both of their bodies as sparks skittered across their skin. Lena pushed Kara back towards the couch. The back of Kara’s legs hit it and she sat down. Lena’s tight dress prevented her from straddling Kara’s lap so she pressed her down further until she was laying down and she laid on top of her. Their kisses were long and languid and deep. Kara’s hot hands trailed down Lena’s back and stopped just above the swell of her ass. Lena trapped Kara’s lower lip in her teeth and then licked into her mouth. Kara practically growled and grabbed handfuls of ass. Lena gasped into the kiss and Kara cracked a smile. Their heavy makeout session was rapidly headed elsewhere. Kara gently pulled Lena away and searched her eyes.
“Are you sure?” she panted.
Lena’s eyes flicked to her kiss-swollen lips. “Yes.” she panted. “You?”
“Yes.”
Chapter 9
Notes:
👀 🔥
So I was writing this chapter and...uh...it kinda got away from me...
Nothing like a mid-fic rating change to keep you on your toes lol.
Chapter Text
The lights of the city cast a glow in the otherwise dark bedroom. Lena stood with her arms wrapped around Kara's neck, her fingers scratching at the short hairs of her undercut. She was searching Kara's eyes. Kara had her warm hands on Lena's waist, her thumbs rubbing at the fabric of her dress, she was searching as well.
"We don't have to." Kara said softly. "I can wait."
"I know." Lena said quietly.
Kara's brow furrowed some. "You know that you don't have to do anything for me, right? I value our friendship, Lena. I'd rather stop now if it means I still get to have you in my life. And you know I’m not going anywhere, right?"
"I value our friendship too." said Lena. "And I want you in my life more than anything, Kara. But I want this too."
Kara sighed in relief and touched their foreheads together.
"I've wanted to kiss you for so long." whispered Kara.
"You have?” Lena whispered back.
"Since the day I met you. I've never felt so drawn to someone in my life." There was an insatiable feeling building in Kara’s chest that traveled downwards and settled low in her hips.
"Really?"
Kara nodded and nosed around Lena, teasing her with the brush of her lips. Everything that had been simmering below the surface for weeks was rushing up all at once and Kara couldn’t stop herself, didn’t want to stop herself.
"Mmhmm." Kara rumbled low in her chest. "I don't think you realize the effect you have on me, Lena Luthor. Every time you would leave it took everything I had to just let you go."
Lena tried to kiss her but Kara teasingly pulled back and diverted away from her lips and started kissing her jaw up to her neck.
"Your energy is just so…intoxicating." Kara buried her face in Lena’s neck and inhaled, her boxer briefs officially ruined.
Lena gasped as Kara sucked gently on her neck.
"It’s like I can't get enough of you, Lena."
More kisses.
“Your femininity. Your beauty. Your heart."
Lena shuddered.
"Your mind. Your laugh and your smile."
Lena wanted to cry.
Kara suddenly turned Lena around and started trailing hot kisses down the other side of her neck while smoothing her hands up her back and finding the zipper of her dress. Lena gasped as Kara moved and kissed every inch of skin on her back as she dragged the zipper down. When she came back up Lena turned her head to capture her lips. Kara gently moved her hands under the dress and Lena let it fall to the ground, leaving Lena in only her matching black lingerie. Lena’s gasp was swallowed by Kara as she moved her hands to cup her breasts over her bra. Lena couldn’t take it anymore and threw her head back and leaned into Kara as she squeezed and slowly dragged her teeth over her neck. Lena bit back a moan. As much as she was enjoying this she wanted her turn. She spun around in Kara’s arms and kissed her, her hands pawing at Kara’s shirt as she undid the buttons as fast as her shaking fingers would allow. When she finally finished the last button Kara threw off her shirt without a second thought. Lena’s hands roamed over the hard planes of Kara’s abdomen and came to a stop. She broke the kiss and looked down.
Holy fuck she has an Adonis belt.
The low throbbing that had settled in Lena’s hips went into overdrive and she could feel her underwear already starting to cling to her. God, she just wanted to lick all over. Kara took off her own pants and tossed them aside. They stood a moment to drink each other in.
Kara was all muscle and hard planes but still retained a feminine softness. Even in a simple black sports bra and black boxer briefs she was driving Lena insane with want. The way the light cast shadows Lena could see every muscle flex as Kara moved. Lena felt her mouth water. She wanted to lick at the muscle of Kara’s Adonis belt, drag her hands over steely arms, and sink her teeth into the thick muscle of her neck. She wanted to know what it felt like as Kara pinned her into the soft mattress.
Lena was just so…perfect. Kara could tell that she was toned but was pulled in like a moth to a flame by the miles of softness that her eyes raked over. She wanted to bury herself in Lena’s chest and then make her way down to the enticing softness of her belly and lavish it with kisses. She longed to feel the softness of her thighs against her cheeks and wrapped around her waist.
They came back together with another kiss, Lena hot and insistent, while Kara was slow and deliberate. Lena acquiesced to the pace. Kara wanted to prolong this moment for as long as possible and live in it for forever. She ran her hands down Lena’s back and over her ass and down her thighs before hooking them. Lena got the message and jumped up and wrapped her legs around Kara as their kiss deepened. Kara walked them both with ease over to the bed and crawled on it on her knees before gently laying Lena on the downy comforter and pillows. She broke their kiss and kissed her way down Lena’s throat, dipping her tongue into the hollow of her neck. She trailed lower and kissed the tops of her breasts. Lena’s arousal skyrocketed as Kara’s dense frame pinned her down. She couldn’t take any more of Kara’s teasing and pushed her up and off before sitting up herself and taking off her bra and throwing it onto the floor. Kara did the same. They both sighed as their bare chests touched. Tongues dueled in hot mouths for a moment before Kara couldn’t take it any longer and slipped down and enveloped a breast in her hot mouth. Lena gasped and pushed her chest up as Kara sucked and flicked her tongue at her nipple while rolling the other between her fingers. Kara spent what felt like hours there, slowly working Lena into a writhing mess. She eventually left her new favorite spot and moved lower, burying her face into the softness of Lena’s belly, it was everything she thought it would be. Kara dragged her lips over pale skin, leaving kisses in her wake. She wanted to continue her path lower but stopped short and climbed back up to claim Lena’s lips.
Kara shifted her weight and dragged her hand down to the top of Lena’s underwear, silently asking for permission. Lena grabbed her hand and pushed further. Kara moaned low in her chest as her fingers pushed past the fabric, through a thatch of groomed hair, and finally into warm wetness. Lena gasped.
“Fuck, Lena.” moaned Kara. “God. You’re so wet.”
“For you.” panted Lena.
She gasped again as Kara started moving her fingers in tight circles over her clit, her fingers slipping around in the copious wetness. Zings of pleasure ripped through Lena as a pressure coiled low in her hips and started quickly building. Kara slipped in two fingers and started pumping.
“So tight.” she moaned.
Lena ground herself into Kara’s palm as Kara curled her fingers and pressed into her G-spot.
“Kara.” Lena’s voice was high and feminine.
Kara pulled back from Lena’s neck and held her gaze.
“It’s okay.”
That was all that Lena needed. Her jaw dropped as she held Kara’s gaze and her body went taut. Her breath froze in her chest as she came. Kara’s fingers slowed as Lena sucked in breaths. Kara kissed along her jaw as Lena recovered.
“God, you’re so beautiful, Lena.”
Lena pulled Kara in for a deep kiss. It was deep and slow. She pushed on Kara’s shoulders and Kara let her push her over. Lena crawled on top of her, dying for her turn. She kissed down Kara’s cut jawline to her neck, grazing her teeth on the tanned skin causing Kara to shiver. Lena smiled and bit down gently. Kara moaned and snaked her fingers through Lena’s long dark locks. She bit her lip as Lena flicked a pert nipple with her tongue before taking it into her mouth. Lena lavished attention to her breasts before moving lower. She looked up at Kara, meeting her hooded gaze, Kara purposely flexed as Lena laved her tongue over her abs. Lena kissed the dips of her hips and found herself being tugged back up and into a passionate kiss. Kara practically growled as she wrapped a strong arm around Lena and quickly flipped their position. The thrill of such a raw display of strength went straight to Lena’s core. Kara was much more insistent and desperate. She stood up on her knees and hooked her fingers in Lena’s underwear. Lena lifted her hips and Kara slipped them off. Kara’s gaze narrowed. Lena blushed under the hot gaze as she slickly parted her legs. Kara kissed her one more time before trailing kisses down her throat, her sternum, and leaving dozens of kisses on her belly. She placed a kiss at the apex of Lena’s thighs before dipping her head down and swiping her tongue through slick heat.
“Fuck!” Lena gasped, throwing her head back.
Kara smiled. She flattened her tongue. Lena’s taste and scent were making her absolutely feral as she devoured her. Lena’s chest was heaving with every breath and her whimpers and moans were getting louder and higher with every swipe of Kara’s tongue. Her hips had a mind of their own and started to grind. Kara couldn’t ignore the throbbing between her legs anymore and shoved a hand down her underwear and started to grind herself on her fingers. Lena felt some movement and looked down her body. The sight of Kara thrusting her hips into the bed nearly sent her careening over the edge.
“Kara.” she whined. “Kara, please.”
Kara wrapped her lips around Lena’s clit and sucked, her tongue flicking across it. Lena threw her head back into the pillows, her back arching high off of the bed as she cried out. Liquid heat rushed through her veins and up her spine as her orgasm wiped her mind blank. As she came down she heard Kara grunt as her hips stilled. Kara lapped up Lena’s wetness and planted a kiss on her clit before climbing back up. Lena grabbed her face and crushed their lips together in a searing kiss. She reached a hand down towards Kara’s underwear. Kara suddenly broke off the kiss and grabbed her wrist, stopping her.
“I’m good.” she panted. She gave Lena a kiss of reassurance. “I’m good.”
“You sure?” Lena panted.
“Yes.” Kara kissed her with a smile. “You are amazing.”
Lena couldn’t help but smile. Kara moved to roll over but Lena held her in place.
“Don’t leave me yet.”
“Okay.”
Kara fit her hips with Lena’s. Lena wrapped her arms around her shoulders and pulled her close. Kara buried her face in Lena’s neck. They stayed like that for some time, just enjoying the closeness and comfort of each other’s presence.
* * *
When Kara woke up the next morning with a naked Lena in her arms she didn’t panic, instead she sighed happily and pulled her closer. There was a feeling blossoming in her chest. This. This is what she had been waiting for all these years. She was sure of it. It was hard to put into words but Lena was just…different. Kara had felt it last night. Something deep within her burst in her chest and cracked it wide open, exposing a part of her that Kara knew was there but that she knew could only ever be shared with the one person she knew she was meant to be with. And it scared her. It was obvious that Lena liked her otherwise last night wouldn’t have happened, but there was a difference between liking her and what Kara knew she was feeling. She wasn’t falling in love with Lena.
She was in love with Lena.
Lena stirred, interrupting Kara’s thoughts. She rolled over in Kara’s arms and smiled softly.
“Morning.” Kara smiled.
“Morning.” Lena grinned and kissed her. “So…last night.”
“Yeah?” Kara grinned.
“It was pretty amazing.” Lena smiled.
“Yeah it was.” Kara smiled back as she laced her fingers with Lena’s. “I, uh, want to apologize for not picking up on any signals you might have been sending.”
Lena giggled.
Kara shrugged. “Alex says it’s a travesty that I have no gaydar.”
That made Lena laugh. “You aren’t the only one at fault. It’s not like I have the lesbian flag tattooed on my forehead or anything.”
Kara laughed. “Yeah, some of us are a little easier to pick out. I think I qualify as a ‘hundred footer’.”
Lena laughed again and kissed her. “Yes, you are pretty obvious. But that’s okay. I like obvious. Obviously.”
“Oh yeah?” Kara flashed a cocky grin. “What else do you like?”
Lena bit her lip. “Well, I really like your lips.”
“Yeah?” Kara kissed her.
“Yeah.”
“I like yours too.” Kara kissed her again. “What else?”
She hovered over Lena. Lena twirled blonde locks in her fingers.
“The muscles don’t hurt.” Lena quirked a brow.
“Mm.” Kara hummed with a smile as she pinned Lena down with her hips. “You know what I like?”
“What?” said Lena breathlessly.
“These.” Kara dipped her head down and nipped at her breast.
Lena’s breath hitched. Kara continued lower and buried her face in the softness of Lena’s belly.
“And I very much like this.”
Lena laughed, Kara’s head bobbing with the movement. Kara drifted lower and placed a kiss at the apex of her thighs.
“And I think you know how much I like that…” she trailed off with a lip bite and a wry brow.
“Mm.” Lena hummed as she pulled Kara back up for another kiss.
“I can still taste you on my tongue.” Kara whispered into her lips.
It was a straight shot to between Lena’s legs. Their kisses deepened. Kara moved a hand to her breast but Lena stopped her.
“As much as I would love for this to continue, you’re pressing right on my bladder.”
Kara chuckled and rolled over as Lena scrambled to the bathroom. Her stomach growled loudly.
“I think I’m gonna make breakfast.” she said loudly.
“Okay.” Lena said through the bathroom door. “I’m going to get a shower then.”
Kara stretched and got up. She made a quick stop in the guest bathroom before heading to the kitchen. But as she stood looking in the fridge a much stronger hunger took over her senses. She could hear that the water was running for Lena’s shower and went back into the bedroom. She stripped out of her boxer briefs and took a deep breath and opened the door to the bathroom.
Lena was standing under the stream of hot water and hadn’t heard the door open. Kara briefly gawked at the enormous granite tile open shower and the multiple shower heads and then wondered if Lena had chosen a similar design for her new master bedroom. Kara’s mind wandered off in a daydream for a moment before she got ahold of herself. Steeling herself, she walked into the shower.
“Hi.”
Lena turned around and smiled. “Hi. I was wondering if you were going to join me.”
Kara chuckled low in her chest. “It would seem I made the right call then.”
Lena pulled her in and kissed her and then backed up and grabbed a bottle of shower gel and a loofa.
“Can you get my back?”
Kara generously squirted the shower gel onto the loofa and gently washed Lena. The shower quickly filled with a vanilla scented steam. It didn’t take long for Kara to drop the loofa and let her hands wander over soap-slicked skin. Lena leaned back up against her and dropped her head to her shoulder as Kara massaged her breasts. She steered them both into the warm water to rinse her off. Lena turned in her arms and furiously kissed her. Kara could feel the uncaged feeling rise up within her. She suddenly pulled back from Lena’s kiss.
Lena looked into Kara’s eyes and shuddered. They were nearly black. Kara suddenly crowded into her space. Something had changed in her demeanor. Her gaze was steely and she radiated what Lena could only describe as a masculine energy. It made her stomach do a funny flip. Lena came to a sudden stop when she felt the warm tile of the shower on her back. Kara leaned in and planted a hand on either side of her head, her eyes flicked down to Lena’s lips. The throbbing between Lena’s legs started to grow as the anticipation sent shivers down her spine.
“I think you cast a spell over me, Lena Luthor.”
“Oh?” Lena said breathlessly, her pulse quickening.
Kara stepped in closer and dropped her arms. “Yep. Seems I can’t get enough of you.”
Lena bit her lip as she looked at Kara’s. “So what are you going to do about it? Supergirl.”
Kara answered her with a searing kiss that made her knees weak. Kara licked into her mouth and Lena readily surrendered with a breathy moan. Lena splayed her hands over Kara’s abs. One of her hands started to drift lower but was suddenly caught in a steely grip. Kara broke the kiss, leaving her a panting mess. She grabbed both of Lena’s wrists in one hand and pinned them over her head.
“No.” Kara panted.
She leaned into Lena’s ear.
“I want you coming in my mouth until you can’t stand.” she whispered hotly.
A deep shudder went through Lena’s body and her knees went weak. Kara slipped a wet thigh between her legs, effectively pinning her against the wall, Lena’s hips jumping at the contact with her suddenly aching clit, her arousal coating Kara’s thigh. Kara kept her wrists pinned and slipped the other between them. Lena gasped as she made contact with her clit.
“I’ve never felt like this about anyone before.” Kara whispered so softly that Lena had hardly heard it.
She cut off Lena’s whimper with a kiss. Kara let her desire take over. She suddenly let go of Lena and dropped to her knees, throwing one of Lena’s legs over her shoulder. Lena couldn’t help the strangled cry that escaped her lips as Kara started devouring her. She threaded her fingers through wet blonde hair and held on for dear life. Kara was relentless as she slipped in two fingers, curling them, and pumping them in time with the swipes of her tongue over her clit. It was almost too much. Lena was having trouble staying upright but Kara held most of her weight on her broad, muscular shoulder. Her walls clenched around Kara’s fingers as every muscle in her body coiled. Her breath was coming in loud gasps and breathy moans as Kara drove her towards the edge.
“Kara, Kara!”
Kara could feel Lena spasm around her fingers and under her tongue but didn’t stop. She wrapped her lips around Lena’s clit and sucked hard. Lena slapped a hand against the wall to brace herself as a second wave of pleasure rocked her body, causing her vision to go white. Her cries of pleasure echoing in the granite expanse. Kara finally stopped. She carefully stood up, still holding Lena, and kissed her so tenderly that Lena felt like she was going to cry. Her legs were shaking and felt like jello. Somehow, despite their slippery skin, Kara had managed to set her down on the shower bench to recover. While she caught her breath Kara quickly showered. She then helped Lena finish showering before drying her off and wrapping her in a robe. Lena tried to walk on shaky legs but Kara effortlessly picked her up into a bridal carry and took her back into the bedroom.
“God.” Lena laughed as she buried her face in Kara’s neck. “What did you do to me?”
Kara just chuckled and set her down on the bed. She gave her one last kiss.
“You rest.” she smiled. “I’m gonna make us a feast!”
“Okay.” Lena smiled back and gave her a quick kiss.
Kara practically bounded like a puppy out of the bedroom and over to the guest room to put on some clothes before heading into the kitchen to actually make breakfast this time. Lena reclined on the pillows and enjoyed the warmth that was still pulsing through her veins. Kara was unlike anyone else she had ever been with. It was almost unnerving. She smiled to herself as she looked around her room and out at the city. Just like that her world was in 3D once more and filled with vivid color. There was a funny feeling in her chest that she couldn’t quite put her finger on but one thing she was sure of was that it was a good feeling and that Kara was the cause of it. She closed her eyes and basked in it. She didn’t even feel her eyelids get heavy as she drifted off into a deep sleep.
* * *
“Okay. I take it back. Steak and eggs is totally an acceptable breakfast food.” Lena practically moaned around her bite.
Kara beamed. “Told ya. Seems like someone worked up quite the appetite.” she wagged her brows.
Lena laughed. “I’m just not used to working out so early in the morning.”
“Guess you’re gonna have to fire your personal trainer and find a new one.” Kara laughed.
“Is this your way of applying for the job?” Lena quirked a dangerous brow.
Kara nearly choked on her bite. “I, uh…you…really?”
“I’ve thought about it.” said Lena, she gestured to all of Kara. “Clearly you know what you’re doing.”
Kara nodded in agreement. “Well then the next time you come up I’ll show you the basics. I think we’ll start with compound lifts. You know, the fundamentals. Then we can build from there.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
Their breakfast was suddenly interrupted by a knock at the door.
“You expectin’ anyone?” asked Kara.
Lena shook her head. “No.”
She pulled her robe tighter around herself and went to answer it. As soon as she opened it all of the blood drained from her head.
“Mother?”
“Oh, so you are talking to me.” quipped Lillian sarcastically.
Lena just stood gaping.
“Well?” Lillian looked at her expectantly. “Are you going to let me in or am I just going to stand out here all day?”
Lena didn’t budge. “How-how are you here?”
“If you would bother to answer your phone or any of my letters you would know.” Lillian said flippantly. “They let me out early for good behavior.”
Lena stepped aside in utter disbelief that this was happening and Lillian walked in. She stopped short when she saw a strange blonde woman in a t-shirt and boxers sitting at the breakfast bar. Lillian turned her nose.
“I see you’ve traded the vapid Victoria’s Secret model for a meat-headed professional athlete.” Lillian shook her head. “Honestly, Lena, I don’t know why you insist on bedding such trivial trinkets when you could have been married to Andrea by now.”
Instantly Kara felt her rage boil.
Lena had hardly heard a word she said. “I still don’t understand why you are here.”
Lillian smiled patronizingly. “Can’t a mother come visit her daughter even when her daughter never visited her while she was in prison?”
Lena’s jaw set. Kara sprang to her feet and was at her side at an instant. She stuck out her hand.
“Kara Danvers, professional meat-head. You must be Lillian. Lena’s told me so much about you. I think I speak for everyone here when I say that our prison system must really be broken if they let the likes of you out early.”
Lena swore Lillian’s jaw dropped, despite her maintained poise.
“A country girl, how…quaint.” said Lillian. “My daughter must have picked you up from the god forsaken backwater town where she bought property.”
Lena shook her head. “How do you know that? How do you know any of this?”
“Oh, Lena, come now. I was in prison, not Siberia. I had access to the internet and all of the latest gossip rags. What you were ever thinking dating that Veronica woman is beyond me.” Lillian dismissed. “I also had Mr. Corbin check on you from time to time. I had to make sure that you were okay. That’s what mothers do.”
Lena shook her head. “Corbin. Of course. I should have known. He is your personal lap dog after all.”
Kara crossed her arms. “Did you come here just so you could be mean to Lena’s face or was there some other reason for your visit?”
Lillian arched a brow. “It would seem that this one has some bite.”
“Answer the question, mother.” bit Lena.
“Fine.” Lillian waved Kara off. “I came here to let you know that I am back at the Luthor Foundation in an official capacity and that we are throwing a fundraising gala for the Children’s Hospital next Saturday. I expect you to be there.” she looked over at Kara. “No plus one’s needed.”
“Fine.” said Lena tersely. “Is there anything else you wanted?”
Lillian’s demeanor suddenly changed to something softer. “Yes. I just wanted to say that I’m sorry for what I did. What I put you through. I shouldn’t have forced you to testify against your brother.”
Lena crossed her arms. “You didn’t make me do anything. I was the one who discovered the clinical trials that Lex was trying to bury. If you think I did anything on your behalf you’re sorely mistaken.”
Lena swore she could see what looked like hurt in Lillian’s eyes.
“Ah, well. I see.” her fake smile suddenly came back. “I guess I’ll be going then. I’ll see you Saturday.”
“I guess you will.” said Lena as she shut the door in her face.
Lena rubbed her face. She could feel a stress migraine brewing.
“You don’t have to go to that thing do you?” asked Kara.
Lena sighed heavily. “Unfortunately, I do. It would reflect poorly on L-corp if I didn’t. As far as the media and everyone else is concerned my mother was only mildly guilty and was dragged down by Lex. It’s been literal years and still I can’t seem to sway anyone’s mind to the contrary.”
“Ah.” Kara pulled her into a hug and held on tight. “I’m sorry.”
“There’s nothing to be sorry for.” Lena said into her chest.
Kara was silent a moment. “So, uh, what exactly does one wear to a gala?”
Lena pulled back from the hug. “You don’t have to go. I’m not expecting you to.”
“Nonsense.” said Kara. “You’re going to be there which is all the reason I need. Besides, I’ve never been to a fancy shindig like that before.”
Lena snorted a laugh. “Okay. Firstly, when we’re there, please don’t call it that. I might find it endearing but the people there will just think…they’ll just think less of you because they don’t know you like I do. And I don’t want to put you through that. Secondly…” she put a hand on Kara’s chest. “I hate to break it to you but this means more shopping.”
Kara sighed dramatically. “Why did I know you were going to say that?”
Chapter Text
“There’s no way this is her real file.” mumbled Lena as she scrolled through the document on her phone. “She must’ve paid off the warden.”
“What’s it say?” Kara turned towards her but was immediately forced to turn back around by the tailor.
“Ms. Danvers, if you would please hold still. I’m very nearly finished.” Kara could hear the frustration in Frank’s voice.
Kara forced herself to stand still. It boggled her mind to no end that not only did Lena have a personal suit maker/tailor, but that he also made emergency house visits in the middle of a Sunday afternoon. Kara didn’t know what exactly she was wearing but she would describe it as the “guts” of a suit that was riddled with pins. Frank had been doing his thing for nearly thirty minutes with no end in sight and Lena was otherwise preoccupied. Kara hadn’t asked how she got ahold of Lillian’s inmate file and figured that it was probably for the better that she didn’t know.
“No shots. No infractions.” said Lena. “That’s not exactly surprising. She loves to appeal to authority…especially her own.” she said under her breath.
“Bright side.” said Kara. “If she fucks up her parole it’s right back to the slammer.”
“I’m sure she’s paid off her parole officer. There’s no way she is going to put up with mandatory weekly visits and random drug and alcohol tests for the next three years. I still can’t believe this is happening.” She pulled up a specific section. “She taught her cellmate how to read?” Lena laughed in disbelief. “There’s no way in hell that Lillian Luthor would ever teach anyone anything. She would rather drop hundreds of thousands on private tutors than pick up a silly children’s book to read to her own daughter. Not that I ever got to read any of those types of books anyways.”
Kara fought the urge to look at her. “You didn’t?”
“Nope.” Lena popped the “p” with her lips.
“Berenstain Bears?”
“No.”
“Babysitter’s Club?”
“No.”
“No Little Golden Books?”
“No.”
“Dr. Seuss?!”
“Nope.”
Kara’s jaw dropped. “Well, now I know what to get you for your birthday. A library card.”
Lena arched a brow. “A library card?”
“Yup.” nodded Kara. “I’m gettin’ you one and we are going to go to the library and I’m gonna read to you every last damn book from my childhood so you can have one too.”
“You’re going to read to me?” Lena’s brow was still raised in disbelief.
“Hell yes!” emphasized Kara. “You can’t not just go through life without Fox in Socks and Green Eggs and Ham, Lena.” her eyes suddenly widened in excitement. “Ooooo! The Rainbow Fish! And Dazzle the Dinosaur! Dude! Those were the best!”
Lena just chuckled. “Sounds like we’re going to be spending a lot of time at the library then.”
“I ain’t gonna complain. Just means we get to spend more time together.” Kara winked.
Lena smiled and blushed. Frank finally stepped away from Kara.
“Alright. Ms. Luthor?”
Lena looked up from her phone. Frank gestured to the unfinished suit on Kara. Lena got up from the couch to inspect the cut and style. Kara remained still as Lena adjusted the lapels and checked sleeve lengths.
“Impressive as always, Frank.”
Frank nodded. She pivoted on her toes.
“What about a vest? For a three-piece?”
“Three-piece? I thought you were wanting a tuxedo for the evening?” said Frank.
“I do. Yes, a tux for Saturday. But I am going to order a few more suits since I have you here.” she looked over the suit again and then at a curious Kara. “I get books for my birthday, so you get suits.”
Kara’s eyes went wide. “But…you…just…Lena!” she stammered. “I can’t let you do that! That’s so expensive! Where…where would I even wear them?”
“Don’t worry about the price.” assured Lena. She fiddled with Kara’s lapels again. “Besides. I don’t know about you but I was kind of planning on continuing—” she took a breath, “—whatever this is.”
Kara smiled and grabbed her by the hips. “Oh yeah?”
“Yeah.” Lena smiled back.
Kara’s smile turn lopsided. “So does this mean that you like me?”
Lena laughed and playfully shoved her. “I’m serious, Kara.”
“Me too.” Kara pulled her in for a kiss. “Sooo…not to jump the gun or anythin’ buuut…does this mean we’re girlfriends?”
Lena scratched at the short hairs on Kara’s neck. “You want to be my girlfriend?”
“Of course.” Kara said matter-of-factly. She touched her forehead to Lena’s. “I don’t want anyone else. Only you, Lena.”
Lena’s heart skipped a beat and her stomach did a funny flip. She pulled Kara in for a deep kiss.
Frank loudly cleared his throat. Kara blushed furiously but Lena managed to regain her composure.
“About the vest, Ms. Luthor?”
* * *
Kara stared at the rocking chair in front of her. She had spent 2 days sourcing the perfect wood for the job and 3 fairly sleepless days building and perfecting it. She kept glancing from the picture on her phone to the real thing right in front of her. It was a perfect match, right down to the hand-carved headrest and curved armrests.
"Is this your mom?"
Kara had noticed a single framed picture on Lena's nightstand Sunday morning. She picked it up.
"Yes." Lena sighed sadly as she snuggled closer to Kara. "It's the only picture I have of her."
Kara traced a finger over it. "You look just like her."
A young Lena barely four years old was sitting on her mother's lap while in a rocking chair. Kara could tell that the chair was very old and probably a family heirloom.
"Who took the picture?"
"I'm not sure. It could have been my father or grandfather, Mr. Walsh. Lex found it in father's desk after he passed and gave it to me."
Lena gazed sadly at the picture. "She used to sing Irish folk songs and read Irish folk tales to me. When I look at that picture I can still hear her voice."
Lena hadn't seen Kara stealthily take a picture of the picture. All that talk about getting Lena a library card so she could read childhood books was only a half-truth. Kara still wanted to show her different books and try to create happy memories, even if they were nearly thirty years too late, but the moment she saw that chair and Lena told her about her mother, Kara knew exactly what she was going to do for Lena. Birthday or not. As she sat and stared at her masterpiece her heart swelled with pride and excitement. She couldn’t wait to see the look on Lena’s face.
After Lillian’s very unexpected visit Lena had been…different. She smiled but it didn’t quite reach her eyes. And their final makeout session before Kara had left felt harried and distant, like Lena was elsewhere and trying to find her way back. It was like…it was like she had put up some sort of wall, and unfortunately, Kara couldn’t tell which side she fell on. Lena had said that she was okay but it seemed like she wasn’t. She hadn’t been responding to Kara’s texts as often as before and seemed to be working later than ever. At first Kara feared it was because they had slept together, but as she replayed that night over—and the following morning—she knew Lena had been genuine in her words, not to mention the change in her demeanor happened after Lillian. It had rattled her enough that she had even texted Sam and Jack to get their inputs. They were both cautious but not quite as worried as she was. Apparently this was the typical effect that resulted from any Lillian-related visits. Lena would spiral by throwing herself into work and maybe nursing a scotch or two at night for a week—maybe two—and then things would go back to “normal” until the next interaction. They did note, however, that they weren’t sure how long this spiral was going to last considering how Lillian wasn’t supposed to breathe the free air again for another three years. After some talking they came to a consensus that all three of them just needed to be there for Lena and that whenever she was ready to open up again—if ever.
So after a brief—but serious—bout of doubt and a hint of regret, Kara felt confident in her relationship status as Lena’s girlfriend. It had also helped that Lena had attempted to “sext” with her one night—spoiler alert it hadn’t gone well, it’s not Kara’s fault that she’s more of a “hands on” type. Lena, however, was an obvious professional and it had left Kara a hot and bothered mess. So she had channeled her pent up energies into more creative endeavors and couldn’t be more pleased with the results.
It hadn’t helped with her anxiety in the least, though. She had no idea what to expect with the gala. The biggest formal party she had ever been to was Alex and Kelly’s wedding, with James and Lucy’s tying Sara and Ava’s. And something was telling her that this gala was not going to be like a fun time with family and friends. Lena was having a goddamn tuxedo custom made for her for fuck’s sake!
Kara blew out a frustrated breath and flopped back on her weight bench and stared at the ceiling. She had to remind herself that this whole thing was for Lena and for Lena only. And if the guests at this thing were anything remotely like Lillian then Lena would need all of the support she could get.
* * *
It had been late by the time Kara got to Lena’s penthouse on Friday night. Kara had yawned so hard that her eyes watered. So Lena had settled for some quality cuddling as they both fell asleep. She had never been with someone quite as tactile as Kara before, not that she was complaining. Having her own personal heated and weighted blanket was something she never knew she needed until now. Kara was out like a light as her head rested on Lena’s bare chest. Lena gently played with her blonde locks and let her mind wander. There was still time to let Kara go back home and not have to be put through this misery. She didn’t deserve it. She didn’t deserve the inevitable scrutiny and backhanded comments that Lillian and others were sure to throw her way. While she loved that Kara was nothing like anyone she had ever dated before, she knew that there would be those that looked down their noses at the fact that Kara was a blue collar worker. A common laborer, as Lillian would say. Lena was disgusted with herself that she even thought that. Kara was so much more. She had a brilliant and creative mind that allowed her to turn wood, nails, screws, varnish, stain, and glue into beautiful works of art. Kara didn’t just make furniture, she poured herself into each project. There was no other way to describe it. Lena could see it in every detail of that bookshelf. As a scientist and engineer who needed to focus on the minutia of her own research and inventions, Lena recognized the quality of Kara’s details straight away and found herself absorbed by them. And the fact that she had made them with her own hands and not automated tools…well that just took things to another level, and Lena found herself wanting to watch Kara work her magic.
That’s not all Lena had found herself wanting this last week.
During her late nights at the office Lena had found herself staring out across the darkened city skyline and not even seeing it as memories of Midvale played brightly on the screen of her mind. Despite texting, she wondered if Kara was watching movies with Esme and baking cookies or whatever it is that people do with family members that they love and care about. Maybe Grandma Linda and Eliza were taking turns giving Kara hugs and kisses and telling her how much they loved her and how proud they were of her. The burn of the scotch wasn’t enough to stop the sting of the tears in her eyes.
Lena stopped playing with Kara’s hair as silent tears streamed down her temples and soaked into her pillow. What was she doing? She didn’t deserve Kara or her family. She didn’t deserve to be welcomed with open arms. She was a Luthor. Her family was the embodiment of evil and their darkness would forever cast a shadow over her. Kara didn’t deserve to be dragged down with her. A silent sob wracked her body, rousing Kara.
“Lena?” Kara’s voice was thick and heavy with sleep.
Lena clasped a hand over her mouth in an attempt to keep everything in. Kara climbed up her body.
“Hey, hey.” she soothed. “What’s wrong?”
Lena’s hand moved from her mouth to cover her eyes as deep sobs wracked her entire body. Kara sat up and pulled her close, rubbing her back as she cried it out.
“Why are you with me?” whispered Lena after some time.
Kara’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean? I like you, Lena. I want to be your girlfriend.”
Lena looked up at her. “But why? My family is nothing but darkness and yours…” she shook her head. “…I don’t deserve their kindness or acceptance.”
“Where is this comin’ from?” asked Kara. “Is this ‘cause of Lillian?”
Lena took a shaky breath and snuggled closer to Kara. “I don’t understand. She just has this way of getting inside my head without even trying.” she shook her head. “And I let her.”
“Why? I mean, I know she’s your mom and all, and I’ve only met the woman for like a grand total of five seconds, but you know that she doesn’t deserve you as a daughter. Right? And pardon my French but she’s kinda a shitty person.” said Kara.
Lena laughed wetly and wiped her eyes. “When you’ve heard nothing but a constant negative voice all your life it’s hard to silence it. It becomes an intrusive thought that just…somehow circumvents all your defenses.”
Kara blew out a breath. “It sucks when that happens. I totally get ya.” she kissed the top of Lena’s head. “You nervous about tomorrow?”
Lena sniffed. “Not for myself.” she sat up and put her palm on Kara’s sternum. “What you saw last week was Lillian on her best behavior. While there are a few good ones out there, the vast majority of the people that will be at the gala are just like her. And—” she closed her eyes and clenched her jaw, “—and I don’t want to subject you to that. You don’t have to come. I can handle this on my own.”
Kara frowned and took Lena’s hand and laced their fingers and held on tight. “Lena, I might be a little nervous but I want to go. For you. Don’t worry about me. I can handle myself.” she kissed her hand. “Tomorrow is all about you. How you turned the company around despite your family. How your hands are clean, unlike your mother’s. How you are better than anyone else that will be there. They can’t even come close to how awesome you are, Lena. And that’s the truth.” she kissed her.
Lena looked into her eyes and saw nothing but honesty in her words. She could feel some sort of magnetic pull in her chest as if Kara was drawing her in. There was more. She could feel words dancing on the tip of her tongue and it scared her.
“Who are you, Kara Danvers, and where did you come from?” she whispered.
She leaned in and kissed Kara gently but passionately. Kara’s warm hands stroked up and down her back and she sighed into the kiss.
“I have an idea.” said Kara. “What if we sleep in tomorrow, eat whatever the hell we want, and spend the day watching Disney movies until we have to leave. Ultimate stress-free day.” her eyes suddenly brightened. “Oo! I could give you a massage or somethin’!”
Lena just laughed and buried her head in Kara’s chest as Kara wrapped her in a hug and held on.
Lena flashed a wry smile. “Does that massage come with a happy ending?”
Kara just laughed.
* * *
True to her word Kara had kept the day as stress-free as possible. They had indulged themselves in extra pepperoni with stuffed crust pizza, chocolate chip cookies with ice cream and more. They had managed to binge three movies before getting very distracted by “massage time”. Eventually, the time of the gala was getting closer so they opted to take separate showers so as to not get distracted again and risk being late.
Kara stood staring at herself in the guest bathroom mirror. The tux fit her like a glove. She fidgeted with her cufflinks. Her heart was hammering in her chest but in a good way. The pants were just tight enough to show off how much muscle was hidden underneath without looking tacky and the jacket accentuated her broad shoulders. It was making her confidence soar to heights she hadn’t felt since her body building days five years ago. The only thing that was missing was her bowtie which hung loosely around her neck. Unfortunately her tie tying skills had not transferred to this particular accessory. With one last spritz of her cologne she went to find Lena and came to a dead stop in the doorway of her bedroom.
Lena was wearing a deep emerald green dress that made her eyes pop and it clung to her in all the right ways. It was strapless with short sleeves that were off the shoulder. The neckline was conservative, only revealing elegant collarbones that Kara wanted to trace with kisses. Raven hair was swept up into a neat updo leaving more miles of pale skin that Kara wanted to taste. Her smoky eye was highly seductive, especially when paired with the dangerous arching of a sculpted brow.
“Holy fuck.” blurted Kara as her brain struggled to reboot.
Lena chuckled. “Tell me how you really feel.”
“Wow.” breathed Kara. “You’re beautiful, Lena. I mean, you always are, but…just…wow. God…”
Lena smiled and stalked over in her impossibly tall heels and ran her hands over Kara’s chest, grabbing her lapels.
“Seeing you in that suit is giving me ideas. Ideas that would make us very late.” teased Lena.
Kara chuckled warmly. Lena smiled genuinely and fussed with her bowtie. Kara just stared at her as she tied it. After making sure it was straight Lena took a step back to take in the final product. Kara was standing with her weight shifted onto one leg and both of her hands in her pockets. Her hair was up in its signature bun revealing her freshly cut undercut. The tux itself was making her all hard lines and muscle. Andrea had worn suits but never anything like this.
“What?” Kara cocked her head.
Lena smiled softly. “You look handsome.”
Kara thought for sure she had died and gone to heaven in that moment. Handsome. No one had ever called her that before and it felt…nice.
“Really?” Kara couldn’t hide the hopefulness in her voice.
“Yes.” Lena grinned. “And I can’t wait to show you off.”
* * *
Kara never should have referred to the gala as a shindig, that much was very clear the moment they stepped out of their limousine. Lena had prepped her for this moment but it was something entirely different to experience firsthand. The flashes from the paparazzi cameras were blinding. She did her best to ignore them as Lena expertly led them out of the frying pan and into the fire. Every single person was dressed to the nines and briefly Kara had felt underdressed even in her custom tux. She was so out of her depth. Forget the club, there wasn’t a single person here worth less than an easy ten million Kara figured.
“Lena!”
And so it begins. Lena had her arm looped through Kara’s and was holding on for dear life, even if her face didn’t show it.
“Mother.” Lena’s smile didn’t quite reach her eyes.
Lillian was decked out in a champagne colored dress and diamonds galore. She looked incredibly elegant and poised but Kara knew that she was nothing but a wolf in sheep’s clothing. She eyed Kara with a calculating gaze.
“My, my, my, don’t you clean up nicely, Ms. Danvers.” There was an underlying patronizing tone to her voice.
“Mrs. Luthor.” Kara bowed her head. “You look lovely tonight. And you can thank Lena for making me look presentable tonight. She’s a miracle worker in more ways than one.”
Lillian chuckled politely but without emotion. “It would seem so.” she turned her attention to her daughter. “Maxwell Lord is dying to speak with you. You absolutely must hear about his latest breakthrough. It’s sure to keep you on your toes.”
Kara saw Lena’s jaw clench. “He’s here?” her voice wavered slightly. “Why is he here, mother? I thought he was a ‘talentless conman’ that kept my brother ‘from reaching his true potential’?”
“People change, Lena.” Lillian leveled a look at her with a smile that wasn’t really a smile. “Speaking as someone who recently had a lot of time on her hands to reflect on things.”
Lena unlinked her arm from Kara’s and crossed her arms. “Is this your way of telling me that you’ve changed? Because I feel like I’ve heard this one before. Let me guess, next you’re going to tell me that you’re going to rehab ‘for real’ this time.” she turned to Kara. “Famous last words from Lex before getting arrested for his ninth DUI.” she turned back to Lillian. “Which you just so happened to swoop in and save him from and stop embarrassing the family and the company.”
Lillian’s eyes narrowed. “Speaking of your brother, have you visited him yet? He would love to see you.”
Lena’s eyes matched hers. “I’m afraid I haven’t had the time. What with running the company and saving it from both of your very public and very illegal fuck ups.”
Kara bit back a laugh and struggled to hide a smile. Lena was hot. Lillian wavered ever so and Lena lifted her head in silent victory. Lillian was silent a moment. Lena squared her shoulders and straightened her spine, going in for the kill.
“You see, while you were busy getting cavity checks for illegal contraband, I was pulling Luthor Corp out of the red and into the black while simultaneously successfully completing a rebrand to L-Corp and increasing profit margins by ten percent. Not even Lex had ever seen numbers that high.”
Lillian actually looked impressed. “Yes, well, I will admit you did surprise me there. I never would have guessed that my little lab rat of a daughter had it in her to finally step into the Luthor name.”
Lena clenched her jaw. Kara couldn’t help herself.
“Um, pardon me, but Lena did all of this despite the Luthor name, ma’am. She did all of that under her own power. Not yours. Not your family’s. In fact, if I remember correctly Luthor Corp was floundering with some pretty stagnant biomedical developments until Lena came up with both the Tandem Heart and ECMO designs. And I’m pretty sure that to this day they remain the company’s flagships as far as medical technology is concerned.” she cocked her head to the side. “Imagine how much more successful L-Corp could be if she were able to spend more time being a ‘lab rat’ as you so elegantly put it, instead of cleaning up your mess.”
Lillian was stunned silent. Lena looked at Kara in delighted shock and Kara just smiled. Perfect lipstick be damned, Lena kissed her. She looked back at Lillian.
“If you would excuse us, mother, I do believe I see some people that I would actually like to talk to.”
She hooked her arm around Kara’s and led her away. Her heart was hammering in her chest and she was pretty sure she was about two minutes away from a panic attack.
“Wow. That was…you’re amazing.” Kara was thoroughly impressed. “The look on her face…priceless.”
Lena stopped walking and turned to her. “So…when were you going to tell me that you researched L-Corp’s financial history and my work?”
Kara just shrugged. “I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to hold a conversation with all these business types. Plus, I figured that, based off what you told me about Lillian, that you might need some backup.”
Lena smiled brightly and genuinely and it made Kara’s heart skip a beat.
“There you two are!”
Jack practically skipped up to them with a glass full of champagne and Sam in tow.
“Hot damn!” he looked Kara over. “Look at you, hot stuff! Lena, darling, do you ever know your suits!”
Kara blushed. Sam hit Jack in the gut.
“Behave!” She smiled and gave Kara a hug. “Good to see you, Kara. And you really do look amazing.”
“Thanks! So do you. Both of you. Everyone here, really.” she looked around. “I mean, I knew it was going to be fancy. But holy dang.”
All four of them chuckled.
“So, it seems you survived your encounter with Lillian.” said Sam.
“Yes.” Lena took a deep breath. “And I most definitely need a drink.”
“Got ya.” said Kara as she took off towards the nearest server with a tray of champagne.
“She’s so amazing.” said Lena as she watched her go. “I can’t believe she basically told Lillian off to her face.”
“No!” gasped Jack in disbelief. “How is still alive and not a pile of ash?”
“Obviously her muscles aren’t the only thing made of steel.” quipped Sam.
“Kara, um…Kara said something that made me think.” Lena chewed on her lip. “She told Lillian that L-Corp would be even more successful if I was back in the lab and not ‘cleaning up her mess’.”
Jack nearly spit out his drink. “She did not!”
Lena nodded and looked between the both of them. “I would be lying if I said that I haven’t been thinking about it quite a bit lately. So, em, I was wondering. What if…what if I were to, not step down, but maybe take a small break? Just for a week or two. A trial run, if you will.”
Sam’s brow knitted. “Wait. Are you saying that you want us—” she gestured between herself and Jack, “—to run things for a bit?”
“To a degree, yes.” said Lena. “I was thinking of taking a week’s vacation. I would still need to be kept in the loop about things, obviously, but, I don’t know…I have a list of ideas I would like to revisit. Maybe flesh out a new design or two.”
Jack immediately sobered up. “Are you sure about this? We know that this is not a small gesture and we most definitely do not take it lightly.”
“I’m nervous as hell and my anxiety is through the roof, but I trust you two.” said Lena. “I just…I just need to see where I stand with myself. I need to know that I can trust that someone else can do just as good a job as I can.”
Kara’s words from earlier that day floated through her mind.
“Maybe I just need to learn to be okay with the fact that maybe I’m not supposed to run things with L-Corp anymore. That maybe I did what I was supposed to do but now I’m to return to my true passion.”
Kara came back with two glasses of champagne and gave one to her with a smile. Lena couldn't help herself and gave her a small peck on the lips.
"I knew it!" gasped Sam. "You're dating!"
"Finally!" emphasized Jack. "Do you two even realize how lovey-dovey disgustingly sweet you were during the 4th of July party? I thought you were going to jump Kara's bones at any second."
Kara turned bright red and Lena flushed and laughed. She looked at Kara lovingly.
"We are dating."
"Yeah." Kara grinned happily.
They kissed again as Sam and Jack begged for more details. Lena told a heavily censored version of how they got together that made Kara chuckle with amusement.
"You seem to be exactly what the doctor ordered, Kara." smiled Sam. "Before you came along Lena wouldn't have dreamed of taking a vacation and now she's planning on taking a week off!"
Kara eyed Lena. "Really?"
"Yep." Lena nodded. "I was thinking maybe for your birthday. It would give me plenty of time to not only wrap my head around it but prepare. I could rent a place in Midvale for a week and work on some of designs that I shelved years ago."
"Sounds like someone was actually listening to me yesterday." Kara wagged her brow and chuckled. "But seriously, good. You deserve some time off. But why rent a place when you can just stay with your wonderful girlfriend who would be more than happy to have you?"
“Really? You sure?”
“Totally! ‘Cause it means that other than work, I get to spend every minute with you. And I kinda like that idea.”
Lena bit her lip. “Me too.”
“Is this that lesbian U-Haul shit I keep hearing about?” Jack pointed between them.
Kara barked a laugh and Lena rolled her eyes.
As the evening passed Kara was introduced to so many people that she was having trouble remembering their names but was thoroughly enjoying herself. A friend of Jack's that he met in college, a few small tech start-ups, two women who had created AI software that detected child abuse materials on social media and removed it and assisted authorities in locating the origin of the material. It was mind boggling to meet so many accomplished individuals who were actually trying to make a difference in the world. Kara hoped that Lena knew just how much she too deserved to be known as the same. Dinner had been a thoroughly engaging affair in more ways than one. The food had been amazing and the company even more so. Lena had somehow managed to get the Chief of Surgery from National City General at their table and Kara had enthusiastically talked with him about working there and all that the hospital has been able to accomplish thanks to brilliant people like himself and Lena. Kara had caught Lena looking at her with a wistful smile sporadically throughout the night and always made sure to sneak in a kiss when appropriate. Lillian had blessedly stayed away from them for the majority of the night, allowing them to actually enjoy the gala. However, during their after-dinner drinks the happy little bubble shattered.
"Lena?" said Andrea tentatively as she walked up to them.
"Andrea. I didn't even realize you were here." Lena said somewhat dismissively. "Where's Veronica?"
"She's not here. We, um, I broke up with her. You were right. She's a horrible person. And I don't have an excuse." said Andrea. "But, um, I was wondering if we might talk a moment. It's very important. Please."
"Whatever you need to say to me you can say in front of my friends." Lena gestured with her glass to Kara, Sam, and Jack.
Andrea uncomfortably cleared her throat. "It's Lord. I haven't seen him tonight but that doesn't mean he isn't here. I think he's up to something, Lena. He really wasn't happy about the proposal falling through. He broke off all dealings with Obsidian but I've heard that he's cozied up to a big shot investment banker. I don't know what they are planning but it can't be good."
Kara noticed Lena stiffen.
"It’s nothing I can’t handle. But I thank you for the heads up." said Lena.
Andrea pleadingly searched Lena's eyes. "Lena..." she said in a low tone, "It's Edge."
Lena's hardened CEO façade broke and she instantly blanched.
"Lena? Lena, are you okay? What's wrong?" worried Kara.
She held on as Lena lightly swayed.
"I'm so sorry." Andrea looked like she was begging for forgiveness before walking away.
Sam looked ready to murder someone as did Jack.
"Is Edge the one—” Sam started.
"Yes." Lena cut her off.
"What?" said Kara as she looked between them. "Who's Edge and what did they do?"
Lena took a steadying breath. "Morgan Edge was one of father's investors and somewhat of a friend of his. He, um..." Kara could feel her trembling.
"He's a pedophilic piece of shit." growled Jack a little too loudly.
Sam harshly grabbed his arm. "Not so loud! There's no evidence of that. Do you want to get sued within an inch of your life for defamation and slander?"
"Honestly, the optics alone would be worth the financial trouble." said Jack matter-of-factly.
Kara’s eyes narrowed as she looked at Lena. “What did he do?”
Lena put a reassuring hand on her chest. “Nothing. I promise. He just—”
“Um, I beg to differ.” Jack butted in. “That bastard knew exactly what he was doing. Walked himself right up to that fucking line and did everything but cross it.”
“Jack, please.” said Lena, she turned back to Kara. “After my father died he started spending more time with my mother. I don’t believe there was anything happening between them but Edge is nothing if not a man of opportunity. Lillian was sitting on a fortune that was ripe for the picking. When I was thirteen…em…he never really said anything to me but I just got this vibe from him that was just…off. He would purposely hang around me if I was alone, sit too close, stand too close. He would always make comments about my looks and how I was ‘growing into quite the young lady’. Nothing wrong, per se, but it still made me very uncomfortable. Anyways. Lillian must have rejected him or something because he finally stopped coming around the mansion and I would only see him at events like this.” Lena took a deep breath. “Then when I was fifteen he cornered me by myself at a party. He was practically hanging over me as he talked in detail about some woman that he was sleeping with. The way that he was looking at me…”
Kara’s jaw clenched and she felt anger pit itself in her gut.
“He would just constantly make comments and pointedly look at my body. I asked him to stop once, but he just laughed it off and said that I was being touchy. When I tried to tell Lillian how uncomfortable he made me she just told me ‘that’s just how men are, it’s just a compliment’.”
“Sounds like Lillian has some stuff she needs to unpack in therapy herself.” interjected Sam.
Lena continued. “And quite literally the day I turned eighteen he asked me to dinner. And then when he found out I was gay he wasted no time in asking if I wanted to join him in a threesome.” She could see the building fury in Kara’s eyes. “He never touched me, Kara.”
“That doesn’t matter.” Kara said tersely. “He made you uncomfortable and from the sound of it was attempting to groom you. Jack’s right. He’s a piece of shit. Probably needs locked up. Who knows how many girls he’s done this to.”
“Fuck…” breathed Sam as she looked over Kara’s shoulder.
Kara whipped around to see two men talking and laughing with Lillian. Kara figured they must be Lord and Edge.
“Dammit.” whispered Lena.
“Let’s leave.” said Kara.
“No. No. It’s okay. I actually want to talk to Lord. If Andrea is this on edge then something must really be up.” Lena glanced over at the group. “Sam, Jack, I need you guys to distract Lillian. She was all too happy for me to talk with Lord.”
“On it.” Jack saluted and walked off with Sam in tow.
“What do you need me to do?” asked Kara.
Lena smiled softly. “Just be you.”
It didn’t take long after Sam and Jack interrupted their conversation for Lord and Edge to notice Lena. The way that one of them smiled made Kara’s gut churn.
That must be him.
“Lena!” smiled the first man, Kara could tell that he was someone that was definitely two-faced.
“Max.” Lena’s CEO self was back and smirked.
Maxwell Lord greeted her with a slightly over-zealous European greeting.
“It’s so great to see you. Lillian was just telling me about this mysterious new property you bought north of the city.”
Kara finally understood what Lena meant when she said that these people were different. There wasn’t a genuine bone in this man’s body. He struck Kara as one of those that put on a good public face but behind closed doors was the exact opposite as he portrayed himself to be.
“Was she?” Lena was more than ready for this game. “What else did she tell you?”
“Oh, not much.” he finally noticed Kara and stuck out his hand. “Hi, I don’t believe we’ve been introduced. I’m Maxwell Lord.”
Kara shook his hand firmly. “Kara Danvers.”
“Nice to meet you, Kara.” Max’s smile didn’t quite meet his eyes.
A man behind him cleared his throat.
“Forgive my rudeness.” he turned and brought the other man forward. “Meet my newest business partner, Morgan Edge.” he looked at Lena with a glint in his eye. “But I think you already know him, Lena.”
Kara’s teeth grated. At first glance Edge looked like the stereotypical clean-cut business man with an overly expensive suit and a cocky smile. Kara instantly reached around Lena’s hip and pulled her close. The vibe that he was giving off reeked of predator.
“Ms. Luthor, it’s been too long.” even his voice sounded greasy.
Not long enough, thought Kara.
“Mr. Edge.” Lena’s voice was dripping with performative politeness. “I’m surprised to see you here. I thought you were in New York.”
“I am. I just happened to be here for a few weeks on business when Maxwell here invited me to be his plus one for the evening.” said Edge.
He lewdly looked Lena up and down and Kara nearly snapped.
“You really have grown up.” he smirked. "God, you look amazing."
Kara cleared her throat and stuck out her hand. “Mr. Edge, I’m Kara Danvers.”
“You a friend of Lena’s?” he shook her hand.
The handshake lasted a moment longer than it should have. Kara had a firm grip and wasn’t letting go. It wasn’t in an attempt to display her strength, rather to let him know that she wasn’t going anywhere.
“You could say that.” said Kara, she stretched herself to her full height.
Edge gave her a once over before ignoring her and turning back to Lena.
“So how are things going with L-Corp? I heard that there has been a little struggle over the last few quarters.”
“Things are fine, actually. Though our growth has been slower than expected we are still at a net positive. Which is more than I can say for most in this current economic climate.” said Lena, she looked at Kara. “Morgan is considered to be one of the greatest financial minds of his generation.”
Edge’s eyes narrowed for a fraction of a second.
“Oh really?” said Kara.
“Yes.” Edge said pointedly. “I actually chaired the Federal Reserve for three years after working for Lehman Brothers.”
Because of course you did.
“And now I’m the chief financial advisor for BlackRock.”
If Kara wasn’t already feeling feral she was now.
“BlackRock.” her eyes narrowed. “You work for the corporate spawn of the devil himself?”
Edge and Lord both laughed. Lena and Kara both remained silent.
“I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard it called that.” said Edge.
“You should get out of your ivory tower more often. I was being far too generous.” jabbed Kara.
“And who exactly do you work for, Ms. Danvers? It is ‘Miss’, right? Not ‘Mr.’?” Edge fired back.
In her mind Edge was laying in an unconscious heap on the floor with a bloody nose. She knew that tone all-too well.
“I work in housing.” she said simply.
Edge seemed surprised. “You’re a developer?”
“No. Carpenter. And a small business owner.” said Kara.
Edge crossed his arms, clearly intrigued. “You’re a carpenter? Fascinating. What does a carpenter know about investment banking?”
“Enough.”
Edge clearly didn’t believe her.
“I know that BlackRock is in bed with the government and getting handouts and special privileges left and right and is to blame for the current housing crisis. And that you are destroying small businesses that can’t compete with you. It makes sense why you would work for what is considered by many to be the most corrupt firm in the world.” Kara couldn’t stop herself even if she wanted to. “I’ve seen what you guys have done. There’s neighborhoods that are slowly being emptied out as people can’t pay their mortgages, only to have vampires like yourself swoop in and buy their homes at an inflated price that no one else could even touch, then turn around and create rental properties at an insane premium, sucking the life out of once vibrant communities.” she smirked. “And I can hold you personally responsible for your inflationary practices as the Fed Chairman. You turned our currency into monopoly money and don’t give two shits because your pockets are still lined, while I have to answer 911 calls for people in diabetic comas because they had to choose between groceries, rent, or their medication.”
Lena couldn’t believe what she was hearing. She had never seen Kara so impassioned.
“I bet you were so smart that you jumped ship from Lehman Brothers before the ’08 banking crisis.” Kara said condescendingly. She shook her head. “Private central bankers like you are everything that is wrong with the world today. I don’t know how you live with yourself.”
Edge smiled evilly. “Spending my days in elite private resorts with all the women, booze, and drugs I could want, while you toil away doing manual labor for minimum wage. I think I’m doing pretty fine.”
He looked at Lena. “Where did you find this one? Home Depot?” he snorted.
He looked at Max. “Why is it that all of the hot ones that claim to be gay end up with these bull dykes that want to be men but are just a poor imitation at best? Why have tofu when you can have a steak?”
Lena moved to speak but Kara put herself between them and was inches from Edge’s face. She oozed lethality.
“For both our sake’s I’m going to pretend I didn’t just hear that so I don’t end up doing something we will both regret.” she said in a low voice, shoving her hands into her pockets in an attempt to keep her cool. “How bad does it hurt your ego that I’m with her and that you don’t stand a chance? Or is your problem a little lower?” she searched his eyes. “Men like you are why your gender gets such a bad rap.” her eyes narrowed. “I know what you did to Lena. How you talked to her. Looked at her. I know what you were thinking in that sick mind of yours while she was only a child.”
Edge snorted a laugh. “You have no idea what you’re talking about. And I suggest you back off.”
“Oh, but I think I do.” Kara didn’t move.
Lena held on to the back of Kara’s jacket as she watched the tense exchange. She had only gotten a brief glimpse of this side of Kara back in the club. It had done wonders for her libido then but now…now she finally understood how straight women—or women who were attracted to men—felt when their man felt the need to protect them, even if they were capable of doing it themselves. There was something about this slightly brutish territorial display that made her feel safe.
Kara continued. “Now, I don’t know what you and Mr. Lord have planned but I suggest that you walk away. My girlfriend and I were having a lovely evening and we would like to get back to it. If Lena hadn’t made herself clear when she turned down Ms. Rojas’ business proposal, she’s not interested in whatever scheme you two have concocted.”
“What’s say we leave these lovely ladies to the rest of their evening?” Maxwell apparently had enough sense to see where this was possibly headed and admitted defeat.
Edge remained rooted in his spot a moment more.
“Watch yourself, Ms. Danvers. This is my world. You’ll regret this.” he said lowly before finally backing off and walking away.
“I’m sorry about that, Lena.” Kara said as she watched the men walk away, making sure that they weren’t planning something. “I couldn’t help myself. That man…” she trailed off and clenched her jaw. “I don’t think I’ve ever wanted to kick in someone’s teeth so badly.”
Lena pulled her back by her arm and looked her in the eye.
“Take me home.”
“Now?”
“Now.”
Chapter Text
“Mm? What did you say?” Kara rasped as Lena nipped at her neck.
Lena pulled back, wishing that the limo would get them home faster.
“I said, that’s the first time I’ve ever heard someone say that quiet part out loud when talking about BlackRock.” she arched a dangerous brow. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen Edge so flustered.”
She went back to kissing Kara’s neck.
“He was flustered?” Kara fought the urge to pull out all of the pins in Lena’s hair and run her fingers through it.
“Incredibly.” Lena’s voice was muffled in her neck. “He wouldn’t have walked away like that if he wasn’t.”
Kara gently pulled Lena off of her and looked into her eyes with deep concern. “Are you okay though?”
Lena kissed her. “Thanks to you I am.” she said genuinely. “I’ve never…I’ve never had anyone stand up for me like that before.” she scratched the back of Kara’s neck. “I mean, Sam and Jack have helped me with Lillian before but…” she shook her head. “I don’t know. This felt…different.”
Kara cupped her jaw. “I will always be there for you, Lena. And I will never let him treat you like that ever again.”
Lena could feel the tears building and kissed Kara deeply. The rest of the ride home went by rather quickly as hungry mouths tried to devour each other. By the time they managed to pull themselves apart Kara was grinning like a lipstick-covered goon. The entire elevator ride up to the penthouse Lena threaded their fingers and laid her head on her shoulder. The moment they walked through the door Lena’s shoulders sagged and she dropped heavily onto the couch.
“God, my feet are killing me.” she groaned as she started to take off her heels.
“Here, let me help with that.” Kara smirked as she knelt down in front of her.
She carefully undid the buckles and gently slid off the shoes. Taking Lena’s aching feet into her warm hands she started to massage her arches. Lena sighed in relief as she sank deeper into the couch.
“You were so beautiful tonight.” Kara switched feet. “I couldn’t take my eyes off of you.”
“Mm.” Lena hummed contentedly. “So I noticed. Since you were so busy looking at me you didn’t see all the eyes that were checking out your lines.” she chuckled. “Remind me to give Frank a really nice Christmas gift this year. I’m thinking…Macallan ’72 Single Malt.”
“I don’t know what that is but it sounds expensive and perfect.” smiled Kara.
Lena moaned and closed her eyes as Kara pressed her thumb hard into her arch. Kara bit her lip and started to massage up her ankle, eliciting another moan. She leaned in and started kissing her way up Lena’s leg.
“So beautiful.” she mumbled around a kiss.
She worked her way up and stopped when she reached the hem of Lena’s dress, she tried to push it up some but it proved to be a little too snug. Lena grabbed fistfuls of her jacket and pulled her in for a crushing kiss. Kara let out a soft moan that sent Lena’s arousal soaring. Kara angled her body, slipping her arms under Lena, and picked her up with ease into a bridal carry. Lena squealed in delight as Kara carried her to the bedroom. She gently put her down at the foot of the bed. Lena took out her hair while Kara unzipped her dress. Kara shucked her jacket and yanked at her bowtie. Lena worked quickly on her shirt. Both of them rushed to undress the other. Their naked bodies crashed together as their lips did. Kara pushed Lena back onto the bed and licked greedily into her mouth. Lena whimpered as Kara unconsciously started grinding her hips into her clit. Kara started trailing kisses down Lena’s jaw, her neck, stopping to dip her tongue in the hollow of her throat, before latching onto a stiff nipple. Lena arched into her mouth with a gasp as the throbbing between her legs started to ache. She couldn’t take it anymore and pushed on Kara’s shoulders. Kara obliged and started to move, trailing more kisses down her body.
“Fuck!” Lena cried as Kara swiped a stiff tongue through her.
Her hips started to cant as pleasure zipped through her body and heat coiled low in her hips. Kara held onto her hips and was relentless as she drove her over the cliff. Lena’s stomach clenched hard as she cried out. Kara’s eyes rolled in the back of her head as she felt Lena’s clit pulse under her tongue. She let Lena grind out her orgasm on her face. Lena’s body finally slackened and Kara crawled back up to kiss her. While the orgasm had been incredible, it still wasn’t enough to sate the raging fire in her chest and the ache in her core.
“Fuck me.” Lena panted into the kiss.
Kara pulled back, nearly as breathless and looked into her eyes.
“Nightstand. Bottom drawer.” Lena kissed her deeply.
Kara got up and Lena pulled down the blankets. She dug in the drawer a moment before pulling out a harness with a dildo already ready to go. There was some sort of attachment on the base that was made of a soft silicone cushion and had fanned ridges down the center of it, Kara arched a brow as she dangled the strap off of her finger.
“Someone was prepared.”
Lena smirked dangerously. “Let’s just say this afternoon gave me some ideas.”
Kara chuckled as she slipped on the harness and tightened it. She grabbed a small bottle of lube and generously coated the black silicone before crawling onto the bed. She hovered over Lena a moment. Lena pulled the sheet over them both. They gazed into each other’s eyes for a moment and Lena felt something crack open in her chest as the energy of the room changed.
“Tell me that I’m yours.” Lena whispered.
Kara’s brow knitted as she saw the tears forming in her eyes. “Are you okay?”
Lena nodded. “Yes. Please…just…tell me.”
Kara dipped down and kissed her languidly for a moment. Lena sighed into the kiss. Kara nosed her way over to her ear and whispered hotly.
“You’re mine, Lena Luthor.”
A deep shudder went through Lena. She reached down between them and guided the strap to her entrance. Kara slowly slid into her, giving her time to adjust to the size. Lena inhaled sharply through her nose as she stretched deliciously around the silicone. It had been some time since she had used it last and she forgot how big it was.
“You okay?” Kara worried for a moment.
“Y-yes. Just…go slow.”
Kara continued to hold her weight up as she slowly started shallowly thrusting into her. Lena whimpered when she finally bottomed out. She grabbed Kara’s hips and stilled them.
“Closer.” she whispered.
She ran her hands up Kara’s back and pulled her down until their chests were flush and Kara’s full weight was on top of her. It was oddly comforting and as Lena pulled the sheet up around Kara’s shoulders she suddenly felt incredibly safe. She wrapped her legs around her waist. A strange warmth was blooming in her chest as tears filled her eyes once more.
“Thank you.” she whispered.
“For what?” Kara whispered back.
“For being you.” she kissed Kara. “I’ve never…I’ve never felt like this before. About anyone…I…I just…”
“I know what you mean.” Kara whispered.
She kissed her through her tears and slowly started moving her hips. Lena greedily splayed her hands over Kara’s back, feeling the strong muscles flex underneath. Kara licked into her mouth and Lena moaned. Every thrust was hitting something deep within her. Her body felt like it was on fire as a tingling sensation started in her toes and was slowly working its way up her spine. Kara looked just as affected. Her eyes were blown wide as she held Lena’s gaze. Every time she thrust into Lena the attachment rubbed over her clit in just the right way that it sent jolts of pleasure through her body.
“God.” Kara grunted. “What is this thing? I feel—I feel like I’m inside you.”
You are. More than you know.
Their panting breaths mingled as they maintained eye contact. Lena could feel something building deep within her. She reached down and grabbed Kara’s ass.
“Harder.” she said breathily.
Kara stilled a moment to adjust herself before slamming her hips into Lena. Lena’s eyes flew open and her jaw dropped as she gasped. Kara searched her eyes for permission. Lena nodded. Kara slammed her hips into again and kept up the punishing pace as Lena held on for dear life. High feminine whimpers filled the room with every thrust. Tears streamed down Lena’s temples as words she was too scared to say danced on the tip of her tongue. It was all so overwhelming.
Kara felt the wetness on her cheek and pulled back from Lena’s neck. Before she could say anything Lena captured her mouth, swallowing the words that were threatening to come tumbling out.
Lena’s brow furrowed and her jaw dropped. “Kara—” she whimpered breathlessly.
Kara held her gaze. “I know.” she panted.
Lena’s entire body went taut and Kara’s hips stuttered as her walls clenched the silicone deep within her. Fire raced up her spine and out the top of her head as white exploded behind her eyes and her breath froze in her chest. Kara watched in awe as Lena came, spurring her own orgasm. She fought to keep her eyes open as Lena held onto her. When it was over they were both breathing hard. Kara attempted to pull out but Lena stopped her.
“Stay.” she panted. “Please. Just…stay a minute.”
“Okay.” Kara panted as she kissed her deeply.
Lena didn’t want the closeness to end. Kara’s weight on top of her was a welcome pressure that was keeping her from floating away. Kara tucked her face in Lena’s neck and pressed lazy kisses to it as Lena scratched at her scalp and ran her fingers through her long blonde locks. Her mind was a swirl of emotions. Kara had done more than worm her way in between her ribs. She had done more than break down her walls brick by brick. Kara had become her best friend. Her heart skipped a beat with every text that she got. Her face lit up every time she called. And she found herself looking forward to the weekend just so she could be in her presence. Kara’s energy was light and fun but also safe and protective and very addicting. At night when she was having trouble falling asleep she would cradle a pillow close to her chest and found herself yearning for Kara’s presence. Lena Luthor, yearning. Something she never thought she would ever experience, much less be capable of.
“Okay.” she kissed Kara’s shoulder.
Kara carefully pulled out and took off the harness and put it in the bathroom sink to clean it later. She climbed back into bed and pulled the blankets around them as Lena cuddled close, tucking Kara’s arm under her breasts. The lay in silence for some time, just comfortable with each other.
“What if…” Lena started, “…what if I didn’t wait until your birthday to come to Midvale? That’s basically two months away. Maybe I could come up sooner.”
Kara sighed contentedly. “I think I would like that very much.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah. When were you thinkin’?”
“I’m not sure. I need to talk with Sam and Jack first. Maybe instead of a vacation I could just work remotely for a bit.”
“Like a ‘work from home’ kinda thing?”
“Yes. I would only come into the city if it were absolutely necessary.”
“Sounds cool to me. As long as you’re okay with it.”
Lena took a deep breath and sighed. “I will admit it does give me some anxiety, but I think as long as I am still working I will be able to relax better than just taking a week off. I can check and see if that apartment is still for rent.”
“Nonsense!” huffed Kara. “I won’t have my girlfriend staying anywhere other than right in my bed with me.” Lena could feel her smile.
“You sure?”
“Hell yes! Wouldn’t have it any other way. I like the idea of waking up to you every morning.”
Lena couldn’t help but smile. “I think I like the sound of that too.”
They fell into comfortable silence. Kara could feel Lena’s breaths starting to even out.
“Hey, Lena.” she whispered.
“Mm.” Lena hummed.
“When you come to stay with me could you…could you bring that attachment too?”
Lena drifted off to sleep with a smile.
* * *
Monday was surprisingly devoid of drama. Lena had half-expected Lord or Edge to come bursting into her office or scream at her over the phone, but nothing happened. It was just another day. And by the end of the week most of her anxiety had dissipated though she was still wary. Lord was a two-faced coward who wouldn’t hesitate to blackmail and bribe to get what he wanted. And Edge. Edge was a battering ram that bulldozed first and cleaned up later. She had no doubt that they were licking their wounds and coming up with their next plan. Despite Kara’s impressive display, neither one of them would be so easily deterred. It was only a matter of time before she would inevitably have to deal with them again. It was one of the many topics that she had discussed with Jack and Sam through a series of meetings. If she was really going to do this, she needed to make sure that any and all possible disasters, unplanned events, and important upcoming meetings were thoroughly planned for. She had also called Kara multiple times to get all the specs on her internet service and was actually considering paying for it to be upgraded to the best package to make sure she would have all the bandwidth and speed she could use. Fortunately, her better sense got ahold of her and settled for the already adequate service Kara had. And after backing up her laptop, getting a second tablet as a backup, and making sure that all of her devices were working properly, she finally felt confident enough to discuss with Kara the date of her temporary move-in.
* * *
“Wait, so let me get this straight. You and Lena have been dating for a grand total of three weeks and she’s already moving in with you?” Alex’s eyebrows were up to her hairline. “Talk about U-hauling.”
Barry snorted a laugh and Kara playfully smacked him on the arm.
“We aren’t moving in together, Alex. She’s just taking a sorta-cation instead of a vacation. A trial run for how things could be once her place is built. And I just figured it would be easier for her to crash with me for a week or two instead of renting a place.” said Kara.
“So when is she coming up?” asked Kelly around her drink.
“Beginning of September. So, like, a week.” said Kara.
“How long is she staying?” asked Alex.
“Uh…” Kara cleared her throat and flashed a guilty little smile. “At least through my birthday…” she said quietly.
“Dude, that’s like three weeks!” Barry practically yelled.
Kara elbowed him hard as other patrons in the diner looked over at their table. “Dude! Inside voice! And I know it is. Lena and I have already had multiple discussions over this. I’m fine with it, she’s fine with it. During the day I’ll be workin’ on site which means she’ll have the place to herself to work. And if she works late then I’ll just go work in my shop. I got her bookshelves finished and just got a few more new orders so I have plenty to keep me preoccupied.”
Kelly and Alex shared a knowing look.
“You tell mom?” asked Alex.
“No? Why?” asked Kara.
Alex shrugged. “No reason. She just told me that she and grandma would like to take Lena shopping or something. They both really like her, you know.”
Kara smiled. “I know. Lena’s, uh, she’s never really had a grandma before so I think that’d be cool.” she shrugged. “She likes bein’ around her. And mom, too. Her mom. Lillian. She, uh…she sure is somethin’. That’s for sure.”
“So you’ve said.” said Kelly.
“Lady could reeeeaally use some therapy.” Kara glanced at her.
Kelly laughed. “Something tells me I would need reinforcements.”
Kara barked a laugh. “That and then some.”
* * *
Kara was all smiles and practically jumping out of her skin with excitement as Lena finally pulled into the driveway. Though they had seen each other basically every weekend since the gala, the rest of July and all of August seemingly took forever to end. Lena had hardly gotten out of her car when Kara picked her up in a hug and spun them both around, Lena squealing with laughter, and kissed her.
“Hi!” Kara’s smile was glowing as she set Lena down.
“Hi!” Lena mirrored her smile and threw her arms around her neck.
“How was your drive?”
“Too long. I’m glad I’m finally here though.”
“Me too.” Kara kissed her again. “Okay. So I was thinking we unload and unpack your stuff in…” she quickly checked her phone, “…twenty minutes then skedaddle over to grandma’s ‘cause she wants to have a ‘welcome to Midvale’ dinner sorta thing. I told her she was technically jumpin’ the gun since you’re not going to be officially able to move in to your place until like November. But she insisted. Oh, and mom is makin’ her famous chocolate pecan pie.”
Lena’s eyes went wide. “Wow. That seems like quite a bit. I’m only staying for a few weeks.”
“What can I say? They just love you.”
It was like an emotional punch to the gut and Lena felt the telltale signs of tears starting.
“Really?” she tried to not sound too hopeful.
“Yeah.” Kara started grabbing her suitcases. “I don’t know if you’ve met my girlfriend, but she’s pretty awesome and everyone who meets her loves her.”
She smiled lopsidedly and started taking the two suitcases into the house. Lena stopped her by grabbing her shirt and pulling her into a kiss.
“What was that for?” asked Kara.
Lena sighed happily. “Well, I don’t know if you’ve met my girlfriend, but she’s absolutely amazing and her family is pretty wonderful too.”
It had only taken about fifteen minutes to get Lena’s clothes unpacked and put away in the guest bedroom and then they were on their way. Just like every time Lena had visited, she was greeted warmly with a hug from Eliza and a big ol’ bear hug and kiss from Grandma Linda. It was just a small family dinner with Alex and Kelly and Esme joining them as well. Esme was a bubbly chatterbox as she regaled everyone with stories from her first week in kindergarten and her new best friend Katie. The conversation gradually turned to an update about Lena’s house and Kara’s latest projects. No matter how many times Lena had been with Kara’s family it never ceased to amaze her how easily the conversation flowed with them and how generally at ease she felt around them. It was so odd to actually be relaxed at a family function and not have to worry about playing mind games all night, instead, they ended up playing actual games. Specifically a very spirited game of euchre in which Lena and Grandma Linda mopped the floor with everyone. The night did take a turn, however, when Alex pulled up a couple of pictures on her phone.
“So a patient of mine who is really into celebrity gossip magazines showed me an interesting couple of pictures the other day.” she smiled wryly as she pulled up the pictures. “According to her the woman in these ‘looks an awful lot like my sister’.”
“Oh my gosh!” Eliza and grandma gasped in near unison.
The first picture was of Kara and Lena as they walked up the red carpet into the gala. Kara was holding Lena’s hand and they both were doing their best to avoid the cameras. Kara turned red and Lena blushed.
“Lena, your dress is gorgeous!” fawned Eliza.
“You look so beautiful, dear!” gushed grandma.
“Thanks.” Lena smiled shyly.
“And Kara…that suit looks amazing on you.” said Eliza. “I don’t remember you having it.”
“Uh, that’s ‘cause Lena had it tailor made for me.” Kara turned even redder as she self-consciously rubbed the back of her neck.
“Well, you look beautiful too, sweetheart.” smiled grandma.
Kara felt her gut twist but smiled back.
“Check out the next picture.” said Alex.
Eliza swiped to the next one and both her eyes and grandma’s lit up. She turned it around and both Lena and Kara were struck silent. They had never even seen the photographer that took the picture. The caption simply read “Lena Luthor and date” but the way they were posed looked less like a “date” and more like something else. Lena and Kara were both facing each other. Lena had a glass of champagne in her hand while Kara’s hands were on her hips. Both of them were sporting million-watt smiles and were looking into each other’s eyes with something obviously more than just fondness.
Eliza smiled fondly. “It looks like you two really had a great time at the gala.”
Lena and Kara shared a look for a moment.
“We did.” Kara said softly.
“Yeah.” echoed Lena. “We really did.”
Eventually the night came to an end. Esme was conked out so Kara gently carried her out to Alex’s SUV and put her in her car seat while everyone was saying their goodbyes. By the time she and Lena got home it was Lena who was actually yawning and her kisses were sleepy so Kara suggested that they just go to bed. They both got ready and snuggled into Kara’s bed, Lena being the little spoon and Kara the big spoon.
“You looked so good in those pictures.” Kara mumbled into Lena’s neck.
“You did too.” said Lena softly. “I didn’t remember seeing that photographer.”
“Me neither. But I’m glad they got that picture. You really did look so happy, you know, despite what ended up happening.”
Lena traced her fingers over Kara’s arm. “I know I already said it before, but thank you, really, for everything that night.”
“Of course.” Kara pulled her closer. “If I had my way that bastard would be breathing sideways right about now.”
Lena chuckled and patted her arm. “As much as I would have loved to see that I prefer seeing you outside of prison bars. Supergirl.”
Kara chuckled. They were silent a moment.
“Did grandma ever ask you your dress size?” asked Kara.
“No. Why?”
She could feel Kara shrug.
“I don’t know. She asked me and I told her to ask you.”
Lena replayed the evening in her mind. “Hm. She didn’t ask but she did show me her wedding dress.”
Kara froze. “Oh?” her voice cracked slightly.
“Yeah.” Lena didn’t notice. “Beautiful hand-made lace. She said that her mother made it for her. It’s hard to find quality like that nowadays without paying an arm and a leg.”
“I bet. Is, uh, is that all that happened?”
“Mmhmm.”
“Cool. Cool.”
“Why?”
“No reason. It’s just been a hot minute since she’s pulled out her old dress. Usually it makes a debut on their wedding anniversary.”
“That’s sweet.”
“Yeah. She really misses grandpa. The way she talks about him makes me think that soulmates really are a real thing.”
“I’ve never really thought about that before. Soulmates, that is.”
“You haven’t?”
“No. Coming from a world of science and logic—and the Luthors—the concept of soulmates or a ‘destined love’ was a laughable thing. At best love was considered finding someone that was at least physically attractive but most importantly had the right credentials and pedigree.”
“That’s…that’s really sad. You don’t think Lionel and Lillian really loved each other?”
Lena sighed heavily. “Honestly? I don’t know. Maybe? In the beginning.”
“I wonder where it all went wrong.”
“Despite what many might think I don’t think it was money-related. Both of them came from serious old money on top of what they had cultivated for themselves. If I had to guess I’d say it was because two emotionally damaged people who didn’t do the necessary self-work tried to find completion in each other.”
Kara was silent a moment. “That’s, like, really insightful.”
“I may or may not have been talking with Kelly.” Lena admitted.
“Like, as a patient?” Kara’s brows raised.
Lena chuckled softly. “No. Just as a friend. I had called one day to ask her and Alex a question and things just kinda…went from there.”
“She really is easy to talk to.”
“Yeah.”
“Pretty awesome friend too.”
“Yeah.” Kara could hear the smile in Lena’s voice.
“So, uh, what was the question? If you don’t mind me askin’.”
“It was about your birthday?”
“Oh? Anything I should know about?”
“Nope.”
“Pleeeeease.”
“Nuh-uh. You’re just going to have to wait and see.”
Kara grinned impishly and started tickling Lena’s stomach.
“Tell me.”
“No!” Lena laughed. “Kara!”
Kara didn’t let up. “Tell me and I’ll stop.”
Lena was squirming like mad trying to get away from her but Kara just followed. Her abs burned and her eyes watered she was laughing so hard.
“I’ll…never…tell you!”
Kara finally stopped. Lena quickly retaliated and soon Kara was a laughing and crying mess as well. Lena eventually relented when Kara cried “uncle”. They both were breathing hard as Kara kissed her.
“I’m awake now. You?”
Lena pushed Kara onto her back and kissed her deeply.
“Oh, I’m very awake.”
Chapter 12
Notes:
If you've never ridden a dirt bike and are curious as to a first-person view (or you just want to feel like Kara for a moment) then check out this video (he really kicks it into gear around the 3:20 mark, also he is riding her exact bike and how I envision the track looking): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6SlPaNpN4I&t=516s
Okay, dirt bikes aside, this chapter is *heavy*.
TW: assault, language, violence
Chapter Text
Working remotely turned out to be exactly what the doctor ordered. It took a couple of days for Lena to get used to the new flow of things, but after the fourth day of no problems—other than the typical stuff—Lena found herself possibly dreading the idea of returning to the office. There was a slight chance that a certain super buff and handsome girlfriend had something to do with it. All of her important meetings had been scheduled for Friday and by lunch Lena had found herself wishing that the day was over with so she could just get home.
Home.
That had given her pause. She didn’t know when it happened—though she was shocked at the speed at which it happened—but the idea that Midvale and Kara were home made her heart ache in the best of ways, though it wasn’t without its bumps. Lena already knew that Kara tended to be a bit messy, though it was more contained and less chaotic than Jack. Her shoes were always kicked off at the back door but each time they landed within roughly the same 2 foot radius. Everything that was in her pockets of her work clothes would get dumped on the same corner of the kitchen counter. And her dirty clothes only kind of mostly made it into the hamper. According to Kara, unless there was company coming over, her designated cleaning day was Sunday. Lena wasn’t totally unaccustomed to house maintenance but it did cross her mind more than once to hire a temporary housekeeper. And Kara, for her part, had to learn that when Lena said she wasn’t done with work, it really did mean she wasn’t done and needed space. It was a slight learning curve but they got through it. Lena even had taken lunch a time or two to go to the work site and have lunch with Kara, James, Barry, and Winn.
Their first Saturday together was actually spent apart. Kara had a shift at the fire station so Kelly, Alex, Lucy, Eliza, Grandma Linda, Nia, and Iris had taken it upon themselves to take Lena on a boutique shopping spree downtown and then continue it at the mall in Argo City that was roughly thirty minutes away. It was strange being in the small city where Kara had grown up, the county where her parents and her cousin’s parents had died.
The shopping trip ended up being most of the day and was incredibly fun. Lena had never experienced being absorbed into an already established friend group with such ease before. Alex had even mentioned that Sam and Ruby needed to come back up and visit again soon. Lena had hardly gotten home when Kara called her to come to the station for dinner. That had been another whirlwind of new faces and names and people who were excited to meet the woman that had Kara “totally whipped”. They had filled her in on all of the best “Kara” stories that Lena hadn’t heard about yet. Like the time that Kara forgot to put on gloves before handling a patient’s nitroglycerin tablets and ended up passing out. Or the time she got scared shitless after a particularly nasty Chihuahua sneak-attacked her from the back of the couch while she was trying to listen to a patient’s heart. Their laughter at Kara’s expense—she was laughing too—was eventually interrupted as they were called out on a medical emergency, and after a quick kiss, Kara was off.
They had fallen into a comfortable routine. They would wake up at the same time in the morning, have a quick breakfast together before Kara kissed her and ran out the door, and then when she came home in the evening they would work out together then make dinner and settle in for the night. The workouts had been…something.
Lena stretched her poor sore legs and made a mental note to fire her trainer. Kara had promised that she would go easy introducing her to free weights instead of her typical resistance bands and cardio, but only three days after moving in, Lena’s body felt like aching jello. There had been one significant upside though that came in the form of getting to watch Kara do her workout after training her. Lena couldn’t help but bite her lip as she watched Kara bench an easy 225 pounds—or “two plates” as Kara called it. Lena was supposed to stretch and cool down but watching Kara did nothing but work her up again. Three plate squats. Four plate deadlifts. Weighted pull ups that showed off her back. By the time Kara was done with her workout Lena was still just as hot and sweaty as she was. Lena didn’t even attempt to hide her hooded gaze as she raked her eyes over Kara’s pumped up muscles and bulging veins. As she watched the casual display of raw strength and power it was giving Lena…ideas. Ideas that involved Kara a shaking mass of muscle on the bench as Lena ate her out with fervor. But every time Lena had even remotely tried to make that fantasy come true, even just in their bed, Kara would find some way to distract her or would insist that she was already taken care of and couldn’t go again. And when Lena tried to bring it up Kara had deflected and used the same excuse that she had a long refractory period and just really liked taking care of Lena first. And now that she thought about it, she hadn’t even touched Kara yet. Yes, Lena had become intimately familiar with her chest and abs and back, but somehow Kara had always managed to keep her “above the belt”. And it was starting to make her self-conscious despite Kara constantly telling her how much she wanted her all the time. She didn’t want to make Kara feel uncomfortable, but for as much as Kara was an open book with Lena, she kept this part closed for some reason.
* * *
The day of Kara’s birthday had finally arrived. Well, the Saturday of her party had arrived—Kara and Lena had already privately celebrated two days earlier and had a nice family dinner as well. While Kara had thought the small get together was her party—which is all she had asked for—Lena had been working behind the scenes with Alex and Kelly so when she had suggested that they just spend the day up at the track riding around, Kara was none the wiser.
“So…you think you’re ready to try learning to ride a dirt bike yet?” Kara wagged her brow.
“Maybe.” Lena teased. “I think I’ve mastered the RZR and feel pretty confident on the quad.”
“Confident?” Kara snorted as she turned into the track. “Dude. You took to that thing like a fish to water. You even jumped it last time!”
“Like a foot.”
“Uh, all four tires left the ground. You caught legit air, babe.”
They both chuckled. They pulled into the clearing and Kara still hadn’t put two and two together. Livewire Racing was pretty empty which was odd given the warm weather and there was a big sign out front.
“Motocross track closed for private event.”
Kara’s shoulders sagged. “Aw, bummer! I was lookin’ forward to catchin’ some serious air today. Wonder what’s goin’ on?”
“Yeah. That’s odd.” Lena played along, barely able to hide her smile.
It finally dawned on Kara when she pulled up next to James’ truck and everyone suddenly jumped out from their hiding spots behind various vehicles.
“Surprise!”
Kara’s jaw dropped and she looked over at Lena who was beaming.
“Surprise! I rented out the track for the day. We will have the whole thing to ourselves.”
Kara’s eyes were huge. “Seriously?”
“Seriously.”
Lena’s eyes widened in surprise as Kara nearly climbed over the armrest and planted a huge kiss on her.
“You’re the best girlfriend ever!”
Just like the 4th of July party everyone was there including Sam, Ruby, and Jack—except Oliver and Sara who both had to work, however they had promised to at least stop by—and they had come ready to ride. After an enthusiastic round of hugs—for both Kara and Lena—they got right down to business. Lena’s heart swelled with happiness as she stood at the side of the largest tabletop jump on the track, Big Bertha (just over 100 feet long), and watched as Kara quite literally soared overhead, the deep rumble of her four-stroke engine only adding to the exhilaration.
Kara was in seventh-fucking-heaven. She couldn’t remember the last time that she had her favorite track all to herself, or at least mostly to herself. She could fly through as fast as she wanted and didn’t have to watch out for any newbie riders or riders who weren’t as good as herself—read: crazy—and she could flat-out race against all of her friends who dared challenge her. It was safe to say that Lena had hit this completely out of the park. After riding for nearly twenty minutes straight she finally came off of the track and swept Lena off her feet and into a dirt-streaked kiss.
“Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You’re the best girlfriend ever!” Kara gushed. “I have no idea how I’m going to top this for your birthday.”
Lena hooked her fingers in the collar of Kara’s chest protector and pulled her down for another kiss. “All I need is you, darling.”
Kara smiled softly. “And all I need is you.”
Lena smiled back.
“So. You ready to try a dirt bike?”
After a whopping ten minutes of trying, and a solid ten seconds of screaming for Kara to catch her so she didn’t fall, Lena called it quits on the bike. It was much heavier than she expected and its balance point was nearly non-existent thanks to said weight. What made it even harder was the fact that her feet didn’t even touch the ground was she was sitting on it and Kara had to help hold her upright like some child on a bicycle. Kara still gave her a thumbs up for effort though. So Lena stuck with the quad, and after a few laps of getting used to the track she even attempted to race Kara. She also managed to increase her jumps from the last time she rode.
By noon everyone was decidedly hungry and in need of a break so James broke out the grill he had brought and was grilling up a feast of cheeseburgers. And instead of birthday cake, Lena had surprised Kara with a chocolate pecan pie that she had made herself—with Eliza’s help—and a few other pies that grandma had assisted with as well. After lunch and cleaning up everyone had slowly made their way back to the track for more riding. Kara had taken a brief break to make sure Lena had gotten her much needed dose of mud from driving the RZR and boy howdy did she get it.
“So tell me, Lena Luthor, what is it like trading in National City’s high life for Midvale mud?” Kara tilted her water bottle to her as they sat at a picnic table recovering from their most recent laps around the track.
Lena laughed and leaned towards the cap. “To be perfectly honest I wouldn’t have it any other way. Better to be having fun while covered in mud than bored to tears stuck with a stick in the mud.”
Kara barked a laugh.
“Kara Danvers?”
Kara’s smile instantly vanished as she looked over Lena’s shoulder. Lena turned around to see four guys walking towards them. They looked like they had been riding most of the day as well on the other track. One of the men looked abnormally skinny with a patchy beard and greasy slicked back hair.
“Mike Matthews.” Kara practically growled.
Mike smiled and Lena noticed that his teeth were in horrible condition and some were missing. As he got closer she could see the sallow color in his cheeks and the telltale pockmarks all over his skin.
“How the fuck are you?” he laughed.
“Walk away, Mike.” threatened Kara.
Mike leaned heavily on the table and Lena did her best to not recoil away from him.
“Now is that any way to talk to a friend? Let alone your ex-boyfriend?”
Lena’s eyes went wide but Kara didn’t seem to notice as she stood up and met his eye.
“I said leave.” she growled.
Mike flashed a smarmy smile and looked over at Lena.
“Well, hey there, cutie.” he stuck out his hand. “Mike Matthews.”
Lena didn’t touch him and gave him an obvious look of disgust. “Lena Luthor.”
Mike stood up and crossed his arms. “Ah, so you’re the one that bought the whole damn track for the day? You guys leavin’ any time soon ‘cause some of us would like to get out there today.” he flashed a greasy smile. “Or, since you seem to be rollin’ in the dough, you could pay us to leave you alone.” he pointedly looked at Lena. “Or you could compensate us in other ways, cutie. Fuck you’re hot!”
He started laughing and looked around at his buddies who all cracked grins. Kara slammed the table with her fists, making Lena jump.
“Dammit, Mike! Leave! And leave her out of this!” she hollered.
She was loud enough that Winn, James, Barry, and Alex heard her and came over to see what was up. All four of them immediately sported similar angry looks.
“Get the hell out of here, Mike!” yelled Alex.
Mike and his friends actually started backing up as they approached. He held up his hands.
“Alex! Easy now. Don’t want no trouble. We were just lookin’ for some compensation for being kicked off our track.”
“Then I suggest you get walkin’.” James raised his voice.
Barry crossed his arms and looked him over. “You usin’ bud? ‘Cause you look like you’re tweakin’.”
“Fuck you!” Mike spat.
Kara pointed off in the distance. “Git!” she yelled.
“Fuck you, Danvers!” Mike yelled before tucking tail and walking away.
Kara was so angry she was shaking. Lena put a soothing hand on her arm.
“Kara? Are you okay?” she worried.
“I will be once I know that piece of shit is gone.” Kara said tersely.
“Who was that?” asked Lena.
Kara’s jaw clenched. “A mistake. Mike Matthews. We grew up together in Krypton and even briefly dated in high school before I finally came to my senses and dumped him. That and the whole figuring out my sexuality thing.”
Alex rubbed Kara’s back. “They ended up at IU together and, uh, some shit went down.”
Lena looked between the two, hoping that someone would fill her in. Kara picked up her hand and kissed it.
“I’ll tell you later.” she sighed heavily. “It’s a long story and, frankly, I want to enjoy the rest of today without that shit stain.”
“Okay.” Lena said softly.
Kara gave her a kiss. “I promise, babe. We’ll talk later. I…um…I’ve been tryin’ to figure out how to talk about him anyways.” she scratched at the back of her neck.
Lena gave her a hug and they both stood there a moment holding on to each other.
“You sure you’re okay?” asked Lena.
“Yeah.” Kara kissed the side of her head.
The way Kara was riding her bike suggested that she, in fact, was not okay. She was going faster to the point that she was starting to struggle on her turns and nearly dumped it multiple times. She overshot a few of her jumps and landed on the flat of the track instead of the downward slope of the jump. Lena prayed her suspension would handle the beating. Lena had been tempted to talk with Alex to get more of the story but knew better after Alex had approached her and told her that it wasn’t her place to tell Kara’s story. When Oliver and Sara showed up near the end of the day Kara had perked up some so Lena felt a little better but there was still something that was pitting itself in her stomach. Kara had reassured her that she was “better compared to earlier” even after she came off the track smiling once again, but there was a voice in the back of Lena’s mind that wasn’t buying it.
* * *
Everyone pitched in to clean up after the party and were in the middle of saying their goodbyes when Lena realized she forgot her phone.
“Crap. I think I left my phone on the table. I’ll be right back.”
“Okay.” said Kara as Lena jogged off.
Sure enough her phone was sitting on one of the picnic tables. She checked to see if she had missed any messages and wasn’t really paying much attention as she walked back through the parking lot.
“Well, hey there pretty thing.”
Lena came to a dead stop as Mike Matthews closed his truck door.
“Fuck off.” Lena moved to walk past him.
Mike suddenly stepped in her way.
“Now that’s mighty rude of you. Especially since a rich bitch like you took my track away from me today.” Mike was giving off an energy that sent chills down Lena’s spine.
“Move!” she said firmly.
Mike cocked his head. “You a dyke too?”
Lena flushed red with anger. “Now who’s being rude?”
Mike just laughed it off. “I just don’t buy it. Kara was so hot in high school and dated me. And, fuck, if you ain’t the hottest thing I’ve ever seen. Ain’t no way you’re some lady faggot.”
For the first time in her life Lena was stunned speechless.
“Wow.” she finally managed. “I knew this level of ignorance still existed in the world but to personally witness it is something else.” she straightened her spine. “I suppose I could make some tasteless joke about your parents being related or how your drug use has fried your brain, but I can already tell that life is hard enough for you as it is and I simply don’t have the time to explain to you why those jokes are funny. So if you’ll excuse me.”
She tried to push past him. He stopped her.
“Don’t touch me!” Lena’s eyes narrowed.
She gasped as she suddenly was slammed against the truck and pinned, cold steel at her throat.
“Fucking stuck up bitch!” bit Mike as he pressed the blade into her neck. “Fucking scream and I’ll cut your throat!”
Fear flooded Lena.
“I think you need to be taught a lesson about how to talk to a man.” said Mike in a low voice. “Maybe straighten you out a little too.”
He kissed her roughly. Lena tried to shove him off but he just pressed the knife harder so she spit in his face.
“You’re going to regret that.” his eyes narrowed evilly.
He pushed harder to pin her to the truck and managed to free his hand and moved it over her stomach. Lena squeezed her eyes shut and mentally debated on whether or not he would follow through on his threat if she screamed. Suddenly, there was a loud grunt as Mike was tackled to the ground.
“Kara!”
* * *
No one had really left yet considering a typical Midwestern goodbye takes a solid thirty minutes so when Lena hadn’t returned right away Kara had just figured she had gotten caught up in yet another goodbye hug with someone. But as she looked around she couldn’t see Lena anywhere.
Maybe she really lost her phone.
Kara went off in search of her wayward girlfriend but she wasn’t at any of the picnic tables.
Weird. The heck you go girl?
She wandered around between the various vehicles before spotting something through the windows of a parked SUV. The only thing she could see was the back of a man’s head as it looked like he was arguing with some other person. She walked towards the argument, intending to help if needed, but quickly realized something more sinister was happening.
There was nothing but pure, unmistakable fear in Lena’s eyes. Kara picked up speed as she noticed the knife at her neck and Mike kiss her.
Something snapped, unleashing something primal deep within her.
Pure, mind-wiping, black-out rage took over her mind and body. Adrenaline flooded her system as she charged headfirst for Mike. She didn’t care that he had a knife and could seriously wound or kill her, the only thing that mattered was saving Lena. She hit him like a freight train, taking him to the ground nearly knocking the wind out of him, the knife flying out of his hand in his surprise.
“Kara!” Lena screamed.
Mike was slamming his fists into Kara’s head as she wrestled him on the ground. One particularly nasty hit stunned her for a moment and he was able to get free and to his feet. Kara got to hers and they slammed back together. Mike might have been skinny, but he was a wiry former wrestler and knew how to stop a takedown which only served to further infuriate Kara into a murderous rage. Lena watched in disbelief as Kara all-out suplexed Mike and slammed him nearly head first into the ground. She quickly scrambled on top of him and let her fists fly, feeling his nose and eye socket break as blood flew. The carnage only stopped when two of Mike’s friends came running and tackled her to the ground. Kara punched and kicked like a woman possessed.
“Someone help!” Lena screamed.
Suddenly, James, Barry, Winn, Oliver, Sara, Jack, Clark, J’onn and Alex came running. James and Clark ripped the now three guys off of Kara, subsequently freeing her to tackle a stumbling and bloody Mike to the ground once more.
“Kara, stop!” yelled Oliver.
He and Barry hooked each of Kara’s arms and struggled to pull her off of Mike.
“I’ll kill you, Mike Matthews! You fucking piece of shit!” veins were bulging in her neck and head. “You ever even look at her again I’ll fucking castrate you and shove it down your worthless throat you fucking rapist piece of shit!”
“Kara! Stop!” shouted Barry.
“Calm down!” shouted Oliver.
Kara didn’t hear them as the rage continued to flow through her. She struggled mightily and would have broken free from their grip had Winn not tackled her to the ground for her own safety.
“Fucking get off me!” she roared. “I’m gonna kill that bastard! He was going to kill Lena! He had a knife!”
Kara’s struggle against all three men was impressive but was clearly too much even for her strength, so she took out her rage on the sky.
“Let me go goddammit! Let me go!” she raged.
“Sara!” Oliver shouted over his shoulder. “Detain those guys!”
With Ava’s help, Sara managed to cuff Mike and his friends. Kara was still unreachable and struggling like mad so with James’, Winn’s, Barry's and J’onn’s help they managed to roll Kara onto her stomach and pin her arms behind her back to Oliver could slap cuffs on her while she continued to scream death threats. Even after they had picked her up off of the ground she had tried to charge head first into Mike who was sitting on the ground hunched over, blood trickling down in front of him. Sara was already putting the knife into an evidence bag while Kelly and Sam held a shaking and crying Lena. Oliver and Barry managed to drag Kara to Sara’s nearby squad car and threw her in the back seat as she continued to spew venom and flames. Being separated from the target of her aggression as well as Lena, had sent her into a spiral. She began kicking the back of the seat and the door.
“Hey!” Oliver yelled at her. “You break anything and I will not hesitate to lock you up for the night and charge you with disorderly!”
That had deterred Kara some but there was no mistaking the murder in her eyes. She squeezed them shut, her roar of frustration muted by the car.
* * *
It took some time but eventually, after gathering both Lena and Mike’s statements, Kara had calmed down enough to talk with Sara and Oliver and Ava. In the end Mike was the only one that was arrested. Fate had seemingly found favor with Kara. Not only was Mike being arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and sexual assault, he had a laundry list of warrants out for him. Oliver and Sara had both reassured everyone that Mike would be serving a minimum of forty years with most likely an additional ten to twenty added.
Out of caution, Kara hadn’t been released from custody until Mike was in Oliver’s cruiser and all of his friends had left. She had stopped yelling and acting out but was scarily silent. Lena ran into her arms and held on as she sobbed into her chest. Kara held her tight and never wanted to let go again. Her rational mind had finally come back and was going in a million directions at once while her emotions had vacated the premises entirely. The rage had been replaced by an unnatural hollowness as her self-preservation kicked in.
After reassuring everyone that she was better and that she was just tired and wanted to go home, they all went their separate ways, with Sam and Jack making Lena promise to call them later when things had cooled down. Kara was thanking whatever god was watching that Eliza and grandma had already gone home and hadn’t witnessed the level of violence that she had rocketed to. She kissed the top of Lena’s head and murmured into her dirty hair.
“Let’s go.”
Chapter 13
Notes:
Okay so this ended up being emotionally **heavy**. As in I might need to take a couple of days off from writing.
TW: sexual assault, gender identity issues, gender dysphoria, body dysphoria
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Lena glanced over at Kara, she had been stone silent the entire drive back home, her gaze never leaving the road even for a second. From time to time she would grip the steering wheel until her knuckles turned white and her jaw clenched. Lena desperately wanted to speak but couldn’t find the words so she just picked at her nails instead while trying to keep more tears at bay. When they finally pulled into the driveway Kara turned off the truck but continued to silently look straight ahead for a moment. She fiddled with the keys in her hands in her lap and looked down at them and cleared her throat.
“I, uh…I want to apologize for my actions.” her voice was low and gravelly. “I shouldn’t have done what I did.” she swallowed hard and cleared her throat again as she struggled to keep the tears away. “I…I understand if you don’t want to see me anymore and want to break up. I don’t blame you.” she cleared her throat yet again and shook her head. “I, uh, I’ll help you pack.”
She opened her door without looking at Lena. Lena quickly reached for her arm.
“Kara…” her voice cracked as tears filled her eyes.
Kara stopped and met her tearful gaze, her jaw clenching and brow knitting as she fought to keep her own tears inside.
“I don’t want to break up. Please…please…just…talk to me.” pleaded Lena.
Kara put a warm and bloody hand on top of Lena’s cool hand.
“Okay.” she wouldn’t look at her. “You go ahead and get a shower and clean up. I’m gonna put everything away and then get a shower too.”
Lena nodded silently and squeezed her arm before letting her go.
* * *
Kara methodically put all of the ATVs and trailer away. Her mind had been racing to the point that it had shut down out of self-preservation. She was on autopilot as she showered and cleaned up. As she stared at herself in the mirror she hardly recognized who was looking back. Her lower lip was split and swollen. The right side of her head was bruised as was a spot over her eye. There was a small cut over her brow and on her cheek as well. The knuckles of both her hands were bruised and scraped. Various other bruises were forming on her body. Fortunately—thanks to her job—she had some liquid stitches in her first aid kit to seal all of her cuts. She didn’t even bother with her damp hair and threw on a fresh t-shirt and shorts. When she came out of her bathroom a freshly showered Lena was standing in her doorway, looking impossibly small. Kara stood rooted to her spot for a moment. Lena cautiously stepped towards her. Both were searching the other’s eyes. The silence in Kara’s mind shattered. Her knees buckled and she fell to them as the damn burst and everything came rushing out. She threw her arms around Lena’s waist and buried her face in her abdomen. Lena’s brow furrowed and her lip quivered as hot silent tears streamed down her face. She gently stroked Kara’s head as she held her close. After a minute the last of Kara’s strength failed her and she fell to the ground, doubled over and holding herself as deep, gut-wrenching, heart-breaking sobs wracked her body and sucked all of the air out of her lungs. Lena fell to her knees, helpless, as Kara choked on her sobs. She buried her face in her hands as her body shook with her own silent sobs.
Neither one knew how much time had passed but the sun had begun to set by the time both of them had calmed down enough for Lena to pull Kara off of the ground and crawl into bed together. Kara continued to cry softly as cold shivers shook her body. Lena wrapped the covers around both of them and pulled Kara onto her chest and hugged her close. The sun had long set by the time Kara finally spoke.
“We grew up together.” she croaked.
Lena just laid in silence, stroking her arm. Kara sniffed. Lena stretched over to the night stand and grabbed a box of tissues for her. Kara sat up a little to blow her nose and then cuddled close to Lena once more, wrapping her arms around her torso.
“I met Mike in the third grade. He had just moved from Daxam, Illinois. He was just this scrawny little thing that annoyed everyone. He would literally tell other kids that he was better than them because his parents were really rich lawyers and he had gone to this fancy private school before they moved. At first I really couldn’t stand him, but then he ended up on my peewee basketball team. After meeting his parents I kinda understood why he acted out so much. It took some time but by the fourth grade we kinda considered each other friends. We would sometimes hang out outside of school but nothing crazy. He still would rub me the wrong way sometimes. After my parents…when I moved we sorta lost all contact. It wasn’t until freshman year that we saw each other again. He was on Argo City High School’s wrestling team. He had put on some significant weight so we weren’t remotely in the same weight class but we still would talk after meets.”
Kara sniffed.
“He was the first boy to ever ask me out. We were juniors. This is…um, this is the rest of my coming out story really.”
Lena gave her a supportive squeeze.
“So you know how I was always a tomboy and was never really interested in boys. And then, because, high school, I decided to ‘try’ to be a girl. Skirts, make up, ‘a real bra’. The whole shebang. So I was like ‘what the hell, sure’. You know, since no one else was askin’. So we ‘dated’ for two months. We kissed once or twice but that was it. He always wanted to do more but I just kept telling him about my stupid youth group abstinence promise and that I was saving myself for marriage. It worked well enough but that didn’t stop him from pressuring me. So I broke it off. That’s when I did some serious self-reflection and with Alex’s help finally put two and two together. I was gay.”
“But you didn’t come out until college.” supplied Lena.
“Right.” said Kara. “That’s where…” she sighed heavily. “That’s where it all kinda went so wrong despite a few bright spots.”
She crawled up until she could lay her head on a pillow. Lena faced her.
“I already told you about my first girlfriend, if you could call her that.”
“Diana.”
“Yep. Okay, so how we met. You already saw my senior softball picture with my Justine Bieber swoop hair, well, before that I had a buzz cut with a faux hawk. Think P!nk in her Mizunderstood era.”
Lena cracked a small smile that matched Kara’s.
“Other than Alex I didn’t really have any exposure to anyone else that was gay so when I discovered the online gay community I kinda fell in head first. Cut off all my hair. Only wore men’s clothes. The community on campus was accepting and I made a few friends. It wasn’t until my sophomore year that I ran into Mike one day at the gym after practice. He had really grown up and seemed to have matured significantly since high school. I talked to him just to be polite but it ended up being really nice. We got coffee a couple of times and just seemed to be hitting it off as friends. So, we became friends again. He wasn’t interested in me since he had a steady girlfriend, Imra. Although I think my whole lesbian makeover thing I had going on helped quite a bit. We hung out a lot and I went to a bunch of parties at his frat house.”
Kara took a deep breath. “Okay, so we need to go back to Diana for a second. I met Diana in my chemistry class because she was a TA. But it wasn’t until sophomore year that we started ‘dating’. She’s bisexual so we had that to kinda bond over. But all the drastic changes I had basically made overnight were starting to have an impact on my mental health and emotional wellbeing. Um…this…this is the root of pretty much all of it.”
Kara closed her eyes a moment and wiped a few stray tears.
“It’s okay.” Lena kissed her. “Take your time. I’m not going anywhere.”
“I…um…I won’t go super into detail because it doesn’t really matter but suffice it to say I started going down a rabbit hole online.” Kara shook her head. “There were so many voices I didn’t know who to listen to and my own inner voice was drowned out because of it. I…uh…I started questioning my gender identity. So I turned to the one person I had grown incredibly close to: Diana. We talked some things out and she proposed an experiment of sorts. In private, when it was just the two of us, she would use my new name I was trying out: Kal. She even bought me my first binder. She even started calling me her boyfriend. During all of this there was this little voice in the back of my mind that kept telling me that this all didn’t feel right, but I just ignored it and pushed on. And…and I won’t go too into detail but sex-wise she let me experiment. Basically she was up for whatever as long as she got off and I got to set hard boundaries for myself, which meant she wasn’t allowed to touch me at all. Because during all of this I started to hate my body. I mean, really, really hate my body. All this dysphoria and shit that I’ve never experienced before and never even thought about just suddenly showed up.” Kara sniffed. “I’ve talked about this with my therapist. Before I figured out I was gay I was always super uncomfortable with the way that guys would look at me, because I didn’t want what they wanted. I knew I wasn’t like the other girls, but I didn’t know why. I just assumed I was a late bloomer and that eventually I would become attracted to men like my friends. But it never happened. So unconsciously I knew that I could never give them what they wanted and I sure as hell didn’t want them. Male gaze issues aside…everything was all coming to a head.”
Kara took a breath.
“Then junior year happened. Diana had graduated and we had already broken up or whatever and I was super stressed from softball and clinicals and school in general so I started partying hard on the weekends. One night, at Mike’s frat…”
Kara fought the tears and Lena took her hand.
“I’m right here.”
“I know.” Kara said softly. She blew out a watery breath. “I was exhausted tired but I still went anyways. I had had a couple of beers, nothing crazy, and was feeling super tired. So one of the guys that I was friends with, Mick, told me I could crash upstairs in his room. Which also happened to be Mike’s room. Now, I know it was just the alcohol and lack of sleep that got to me, not something else, because I had gotten my own drinks all night and opened them myself. Anyways. I fell asleep on Mick’s bed.” Kara braced herself. “I woke up some time later because I felt cold. It took a minute for me to get my bearings but when I did…” Kara clenched her jaw as a few tears fell. “I had been in a deep enough sleep that I hadn’t woken up earlier. But my pants were undone and my shirt was pushed up past my sports bra. Mike kinda had his back to me but I could see that the fly of his pants was open. He was messing around with his laptop. I could see that the camera was on and that it was recording. Whatever alcohol I had in my system was gone as adrenaline sobered me up instantly. I screamed at him ‘what the fuck are you doing’! He freaked out and slammed the computer shut and tried to zip up his pants. I yanked my shirt down and just…flipped the fuck out. I wasn’t as big as I am now but I still tackled him hard enough that we both crashed through the bedroom door. A few of the guys heard it and came running upstairs and saw me just…fuckin’ wailing on Mike. They pulled me off and I told them what he did. Mike tried to defend himself but apparently something similar must’ve happened before because Mick knocked him the fuck out.”
“Kara…” Lena croaked.
Kara continued. “I found out later that Imra had dumped him nearly a year prior because she thought he was obsessed with me. Anyways. The cops were called. I went to the hospital and a rape kit was done but he hadn’t touched me. Someone up above must’ve been watchin’ out for me and woke me up before he could do anything. It didn’t take long for word to spread around campus like wildfire. Just when I wanted to disappear the most I was suddenly front and center for a huge story. Five girls ended up coming forward with similar accusations and two of them saying that he actually…you know…so he got arrested. We all testified against him but thanks to his scummy lawyer parents he only got one year and only had to register as a sex offender for ten years. So for the last two years I’d guess that he’s been off it and doing god know what.”
Lena was stunned silent. She pulled Kara into a hug.
“I’m so sorry.” her voice cracked with tears.
Kara hugged her back for a moment. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. I just…I just didn’t know how.”
“I don’t blame you. But thank you for telling me. Thank you for trusting me.” Lena kissed her.
Kara held her hand. “There’s more. So after all of that I kinda went in a downward spiral. I wasn’t suicidal or nothin’, but I didn’t exactly want to participate in life. But I forced myself to finish school and get a job. And for a while it worked. But then a confused patient called me ‘sir’ and it started all over again. So I started looking into transitioning. I thought that that would solve everything. I wouldn’t have dudes looking at me ever again and I would only have attention from women. Plus, the testosterone would make me even more muscular and stronger. But I didn’t exactly go about it the right way. This was years before I found my therapist. So I tried to find ways to get test without a script. All this while still working as an ICU nurse and dealing with all the stress that comes with that and working one to two shifts a month as a paramedic to keep up my license. Not to mention I had just moved to National City and was completely by myself. So now not only am I stressed beyond belief, have no friends and no social life, but I’m dealing with hating myself once again. So I did the one thing that was the only constant in my life: I went to the gym. I threw myself into every workout. Tightened my diet, and made some serious gains. About a year into it I was approached by some dude that I had seen a few times there and had talked with. He offered me something that would take my workouts to the next level. This was my crossroads. I decided to use it as a test of sorts. I knew that steroids would cause an androgenizing effect somewhat similar to testosterone. So I bought two years’ worth of gear, learned how to stack and cycle, and went at it. Nothing too crazy. Just some Var, Primo, and T-bol. No fat burners like Clen or Winny though. I was just purely focused on mass and strength gains.”
Lena listened with rapt attention.
“Obviously they worked. And after a year I finally could look in the mirror and was starting to like what I saw, even naked. I told myself I would only do them for two years because I know what steroids can do long term. And as it got close to my two year mark I found myself wanting to keep going.”
“What stopped you?”
Kara blew out a breath. “One day I was washing my face and felt something on my chin. I looked in the mirror and saw four chin hairs. I’m talkin’ like the beginnings of a beard. I flipped. The. Fuck. Out. Those four damned hairs practically reversed my entire mindset in the blink of an eye. I didn’t want a fucking beard. I didn’t actually want to be perceived as a dude. I didn’t want ‘equipment’ even though I still wasn’t comfortable with my own ‘downstairs’. None of it. I finished my last cycle just so I wouldn’t fuck up my hormones even worse by going cold turkey and then never thought about another cycle again. I threw away my binders, grew out my hair, and wore whatever fucking clothes I wanted to wear. When I felt like my mind was in a good enough place I went back online to see if there were any other women like me. It took some digging but I found them. That’s when I learned about butch women, studs, and ‘masc’. That you could be a female that just happens to be masculine of center. That I was still allowed to have dysphoria but not be trans. And later when I met Nia she helped me with so much of this shit. Our stories were similar enough but the defining difference was: she’s trans, I’m not. It took me a long time to be okay with that. To be okay with not being completely okay with my body, but knowing that the other option is not for me. It also made me okay with being alone because I started to identify with other butch women who referred to themselves as ‘Touch-Me-Nots’. They could be with partners sexually, but it was mostly a one-way street or at least had serious red lights. And as someone who wasn’t, well, still isn’t, completely comfortable in their own body, it was a whole new revelation.”
Lena reached out and cupped Kara’s face. “Is that why you don’t let me touch you?”
Kara’s eyes were downcast. “Yeah.” she said softly.
“Hey.” Lena tipped her chin up. “It’s okay. If you don’t want me to touch you I can do that. Honestly, I was starting to get worried it was me.”
Kara suddenly turned worried. “Lena, no! No! Of course it isn’t you! Oh god. I’m so sorry! If I knew that that’s what you were thinking—”
“It’s fine.” Lena assured her and took her hand. “For all of the talking we do it would seem like we still have quite a bit to go. But I’m here for you, Kara. Okay? I don’t want to do anything that you don’t want to do.”
Kara looked deep into her eyes. “But that’s the thing, Lena. I thought I didn’t want to. But after being with you…I don’t know. Something started to change. I found myself actually thinking about it. And while I’m still not completely comfortable I would like to make baby steps at least.”
“Okay. Okay. Whatever you need.” nodded Lena. “Can I ask…what specifically are you struggling with?”
Kara thought a moment and shrugged. “I don’t know…disgust maybe? Like I’m uncomfortable with myself so why in the world would anyone want to go anywhere near…that.”
Lena suddenly felt like she was looking at Kara for the first time. She took her hand and put it over her heart and tried to be as gentle as possible.
“Kara…as much as you enjoy yourself when you’re going down on me, did you ever stop to think that maybe I want to go down on you just as bad?” she said softly.
Kara was silent a moment. “Yeah.” she whispered. “But I just have this…mental block or something. This intrusive thought. Like any time I get close to thinking about being okay with it, it tells me that I’m not supposed to be okay with it. And, yes, I’ve talked extensively with my therapist about it. One of the things she told me is that maybe I’m one of those people that just really needs to find a deep and meaningful connection with someone in order to feel safe enough to be vulnerable with them.”
She brushed Lena’s cheek. “And I think I do, with you Lena.”
“I don’t take that lightly.” Lena assured.
“I know.” nodded Kara, she turned thoughtful. “Ever since that first dinner at grandma’s I knew that there was something different about you, Lena. I already knew from the moment I met you that I thought you were the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. But that night…I don’t know…something changed. I’ve always felt protective about my friends and family but that night, seeing you cry, I wanted to make sure that you would never cry again. And then at the club and with Edge. I know it might seem crazy or even caveman-ish, but I felt this overwhelming need to protect you. To keep you safe. And when—” her voice broke. “—when I saw Mike. It’s like everything I’ve ever feared was standing right in front of me and I just snapped. I snapped, Lena. And I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you but I just…I just…”
She started crying again and Lena pulled her close.
“I was scared. But not because of you. I was scared because I thought I might actually die.” Lena’s voice broke as she started crying too. “That I would leave you. I’m not going to lie, seeing all that rage coming out of you did scare me. I didn’t know if I would ever be able to get you back. That I wouldn’t be able to calm you down and bring you back to me. That I would lose you like I lost Lex. Like I lost my father. I don’t want to lose you, Kara. I can’t lose you.”
“I can’t lose you.” Kara gasped through her tears. “I don’t know what is going on with me, Lena. It’s like I can’t stand to be away from you. Like you keep pulling me in and I don’t ever want to go back to what my life was like before you were in it. I want to be with you. I want to know you. I want to be a part of you and you a part of me. I-I love you, Lena. So much it hurts. It’s like, when I look at you, I see everything that I’ve been waiting for. It’s like…everything I’ve gone through in my life has made me who I am now so that way I can be who you need me to be. That I can be whole in myself but also whole with you. Does that make sense?”
Lena nodded through her own tears. “Yes. Before I met you my life felt like it was happening to me instead of me experiencing it and I was just watching it happen. I was empty. I was just doing what was expected of me instead of what I wanted to do. I didn’t think I would be able to but after spending these last three weeks with you I finally see it. I don’t want to run L-Corp and haven’t for some time. Being here in Midvale, being with you, getting to work on my own research, that is what I want. I don’t want pretentious galas fraught with social and political landmines. I don’t care about names or titles. I just want to be me. And you let me.” her eyes shone. “You see me for me. Not my money. Not my name. Not what I can do for your own standing. I’m not Lena Luthor. I’m just…Lena.”
Kara calmed down some as Lena wiped away her tears.
“I feel it too. That pull? I think I’ve been feeling it my entire life. Why I moved to National City. Why I bought that land. Everything. You know I’m not one for religion or spirituality, but whatever is going on between us surpasses all my understanding.” she looked deeply into Kara’s eyes. “I love you, Kara. Every part of you. Heart, soul, mind…” she placed her palm flat on Kara’s sternum. “…body. Everything that is you. And I will wait as long as you need. And if you can’t that’s okay. All I want is to be with you, Kara, no matter what.”
She kissed her. Kara pulled her closer and deepened the kiss, trying to convey all of her love to Lena. She grabbed Lena’s leg, intertwining both their legs, trying to get as close as possible. Lena fisted both her hands in Kara’s shirt and held on as if she would be carried away for forever if she let go. When they finally broke their kiss they touched their foreheads together as a deep sleep started to claim them both.
“I love you, Lena.”
“I love you, Kara.”
Notes:
So some of Kara's story is based somewhat off of my own personal experience (minus everything that happened at college and Mike) with gender issues. So, uh, be gentle please.
Chapter 14
Notes:
I just want to thank everyone for their nice comments. Yeah, gender stuff sucks. I hope that those of you who are going through it find the help you need, be it friends and/or therapy. My therapist (I call her Yoda) has been instrumental to me surviving that hell storm.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
It was near dawn when Kara startled awake. Her heart was hammering in her chest. She swore she had just heard some sort of strange sound. She lay barely breathing while carefully listening. Suddenly, Lena gasped and whimpered loudly next to her. Kara jolted upright. Lena’s face was drawn and her neck was straining as tears rolled down her temples and terrified whimpers gurgled out of her throat.
“Lena?” Kara tried to wake her.
Lena’s nightmarish struggled continued.
Kara brushed wet strands of hair out of her face, gently trying to wake her.
“Lena? Baby?”
Lena suddenly gasped loudly and her eyes flew open. Her chest was heaving with her every breath. She gripped Kara’s wrist and broke down sobbing. Kara kissed the side of her head and just cradled her as she cried. The sun was shining brightly by the time she calmed down enough to finally talk.
“I thought the nightmares were gone.” Lena said softly as Kara played with her hair.
“Do you wanna talk about it?” Kara said softly.
Lena took a deep breath and fisted her hand in Kara’s shirt.
“Um. So you know how I was the one that figured out that Lex was burying the cancer stuff related to ImmunePro and then the very illegal money laundering and misappropriated funds?”
Kara nodded.
“Well, they were supposed to arrest Lex and Lillian at the same time. But…I don’t know what exactly happened but Lillian was arrested a week before Lex, tipping him off.” Lena sniffed and gripped Kara tighter. “Um. I was working late in the lab one night. This was also back when I insisted on driving myself to work. So it was about one in the morning and I was in the parking garage walking to my car. I didn’t even see him coming. The next thing I know someone attacked me from behind. A chloroform rag over my face and everything.”
Kara stiffened.
“The next thing I know I’m in some warehouse, tied to a chair, and the first person I see is my brother’s crony henchman ‘bodyguard’ Otis Graves. The violent lunatic brother of Lex’s longtime girlfriend Mercy.” Lena shook her head. “I knew he had done some questionable things but to witness it firsthand, let alone on the receiving end…the look he had on his face…he was enjoying every minute of it.” she shuddered. “It started with a slap. Hard enough to hurt but not enough to bruise. Then a sucker punch to the stomach. Once he was done ‘softening me up’ Lex finally made his debut.”
More tears. Kara hugged her close and kissed her.
“Whatever brother I knew as a child was gone and in his place was this…maniac. His paranoia was off the charts. He accused me of so many horrible things.”
A deep sob wracked her body. Kara continued to hold onto her.
“He went right to blackmail, telling me that he was going to plant evidence that would send me to prison for life if anything were to happen to him. Then he, uh…” more tears. “…he put a knife to my throat…and he…he told me that if I were to ever testify against him that he would have me killed. Otis would be the one to do it.”
She rubbed at her throat and pointed. “Can you see a thin line right about here?”
Kara smoothed her finger over the area and saw the faintest of scars. “Yeah. I never noticed it before.”
“Perks of having Metropolis’ top plastic surgeon on speed dial thanks to my mother.” Lena swallowed and looked into Kara’s eyes. “Lex pressed the knife so hard into my throat and his eyes…I thought he was going to kill me right then and there.”
She started crying again.
Kara’s eyes went wide with realization. “Oh my god. I’m such an ass.” her eyes started to tear up. “You went through all that with Mike and I—I—”
Lena shook her head. “You didn’t know. I don’t blame you, Kara. I’ve never told anyone. Not even Sam or Jack.” she touched Kara’s busted cheek. “Out of the two of us I think you’re more worse for wear.”
Kara kissed the palm of her hand. “Don’t do that. Don’t diminish yourself. What you went through was horrible. It should never have happened.”
“No one knew that Mike was going to do what he did.” Lena said softly.
“I still feel like shit about it.” said Kara, she kissed her. “Is that what your nightmare was about?”
Lena nodded. “I was back in that warehouse. It was dark. The suddenly these horrible twisted faces of Lex and Mike appeared out of the darkness with these huge knives and were pressing them so hard against my throat it was hard to breathe.” more tears. “I could feel the blades cutting my skin.”
“What can I do to help?”
Lena cuddled closer to her. “Just…be here.” she laid her head on Kara’s chest, listening to her heart. “I already feel better.”
Kara was silent for a moment as she stroked Lena’s back.
“So how did you get away from Lex?”
“He let me go.” Lena said after a beat. “Otis chloroformed me again and when I woke up I was in my apartment. A week later Lex was arrested. I kept waiting for Otis to show up again but it never happened. I don’t think I slept for four months. I just kept waiting and waiting. But it never happened. It was almost a year after Lex was in prison before I finally relaxed. I guess having the majority of his assets seized took away what power he had.”
“I’m so sorry you went through that, Lena. Lex, Mike, and Otis are all pieces of shit. I promise you that I will do whatever I can to keep you safe from here on out. Without losin’ my shit like I did.”
“…Thank you.”
They lay in silence for some time.
“We make quite the pair, huh?” Kara said softly.
“Mm. That we do, Supergirl.” Lena hummed.
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
“Lena?”
“Hm?”
“Do you…do you have to go back to National City? I don’t want to be selfish, but I’m not ready for you to leave yet.”
“You’re not being selfish, Kara, I don’t want to go back either, but there’s some things I need to take care of. I only planned out for this far. If I’m being honest I’m not looking forward to being back in the office and the dozens of meetings that are scheduled for Wednesday. I would really rather stay here and continue my research. Though, since my house isn’t finished yet, nor is my lab, I still would have to make trips to L-Corp to use the one there.”
“I don’t mind those kinda trips. Even if you were there during the weekdays. I could handle it knowing that you at least are happy and in your element rather than miserable. I don’t want you to be miserable, Lena.”
“I don’t want to be miserable either.” Lena sat up and looked at Kara. “Which is why I need to go back to L-Corp. So I can have a long talk with Sam and Jack. I think…I think I might be able to let go of some more things and let them handle it.”
Kara sat up on her elbow. “Wow. Really? You sure? I don’t wanna push—”
“You aren’t pushing me.” Lena assured. “I want to do this. It’s been a long time coming and I think I can confidently say that now is the time.” she put her hand over Kara’s heart. “I took over the company because it was what was needed at the time, but just because I can do the job doesn’t mean I want to do it. And L-Corp is at a good enough place that for once in my life I don’t have any anxiety at the thought of leaving.” she smiled softly. “And like you told my mother. Imagine how much more amazing L-Corp could be if I was back in the lab and following my passions.”
Kara smiled and Lena kissed her.
“I have an idea.” said Kara. “What if instead of you coming back up here on Friday, I come to you and we go on a really nice date? I already have Saturday off since I’m workin’ Sunday.”
“What did you have in mind?”
Kara shrugged. “Not sure yet. But I’ll put together somethin’ awesome. ‘Cause you deserve it.” she looked into Lena’s eyes. “I wanna make you happy, Lena.”
Lena’s eyes teared up as her heart felt like it was going to burst. She leaned in and kissed Kara deeply.
"I love you.”
* * *
The rest of Sunday morning was spent lounging in bed. Lena called both Sam and Jack to let them know she was alright and that things with Kara were okay. Kara had done something similar though her call list was significantly longer. Lunch had been a family affair at Eliza’s.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Eliza put her hand on top of Lena’s.
“Yes. Thanks to Kara.” Lena smiled softly. “We talked a lot.” she looked over at Kara. “It was really good.”
Kara smiled back at her. “Yeah, it was.” she rubbed her back.
“I’m assuming Kara told you about Mike.” said Alex.
Lena nodded. “She told me everything about college.”
Alex gave Kara a look, Kara nodded.
“I see.” said Alex.
Kara took Lena’s hand and kissed the back of it.
“So when are you coming back to Midvale, dear?” asked grandma.
“Soon.” said Lena. “There’s some things I need to take care of at L-Corp that might take a week or two. And I need to start getting my things in order since Kara told me that it’s looking like my house will be done a little ahead of schedule.”
“Yep.” Kara nodded happily. “If things keep going good she’ll be in there roughly two weeks before Thanksgiving.” she looked at Lena with a huge smile. “So…” she looked back at her family. “We kinda got to talkin’ on Friday when she came to the site for lunch and, uh, Lena was wondering if we would like to do Thanksgiving at her place.”
“Oh really?” said Eliza. “You sure?”
A sly smile spread across grandma’s face. “I think that sounds just wonderful. Honestly, I could use a break from hosting. And since it’s my year to do so, I give you my full approval.”
Kelly arched an eyebrow. “Something tells me that your place will actually be able to hold all of us, Lena.”
They all chuckled warmly.
“Does that mean that Ruby will be there? ‘Cause I like playing with her.” asked Esme.
Lena smiled. “I still have to talk with her mom but I wouldn’t see why she wouldn’t be able to.”
“Yes!” Esme pumped her fist. “Jon and Jordan will be excited too!”
Kara leaned over and whispered in Lena’s ear. “Watch this.”
She turned back to her niece. “You know what’s really cool, Esme? Lena has a basement. A really cool one too.”
Esme’s eyes were huge. “That’s so cool! I wish we had a basement! My friend Katie has one! She even has a whole playhouse down there!”
Kara winked at Lena who smiled widely.
“Well, I don’t have a playhouse but there’s going to be a really cool TV that will take up an entire wall.” said Lena.
Esme’s jaw dropped and everyone laughed.
After lunch was over Kelly managed to get Lena by herself.
“So…something’s changed with you guys. You seem like you’re getting pretty serious.”
Lena smiled softly and looked over at Kara who was washing dishes with Esme and putting bubbles on the tip of her nose.
“Yeah.” she looked back at Kelly. “Um, we’re friends, right?”
“Of course.” smiled Kelly. “Why? What’s up?”
“I’ve talked with Sam and Jack about this but…” she fidgeted with her fingers. “…actually, can we go outside?”
“Sure.”
They went out onto the porch and sat on the porch swing.
“Is everything okay?” asked Kelly.
“Yeah, yeah. Um. I just…I’ve never been with someone like Kara before. All of my past relationships were, well, they weren’t the greatest. And Kara’s just…amazing. Truly. But…do you think we’re moving too fast?”
Kelly thought a moment. “Do you feel like you’re moving too fast?”
“Oddly, no.”
“Then I think that’s your answer.”
“I guess you’re right.”
“I’ve never seen Kara so happy. Before you came along Alex and I were starting to get a little worried for her.” said Kelly. “She had said that she was giving up on dating and just going to wait for the universe to bring her someone.”
Lena chuckled. “That sounds like Kara.”
Kelly chuckled too. “Yeah. She really has that hopeless romantic thing going for sure.”
“We have a date on Friday but she won’t tell me what she’s planning.”
“Sounds about right. Whenever Kara has a surprise planned you can bet it’s going to be good. She kind of prides herself on that. Making people happy.”
Lena smiled wistfully. “That’s one of the many things I love about her.”
“Love?” Kelly arched a brow.
Lena blushed slightly. “Yeah.”
Kelly chuckled. “Lesbians really do move fast, don’t we?”
Lena nodded. “For the first time in my life I’ve actually become a lesbian stereotype.”
“You aren’t the only one. Alex and I were engaged after only seven months. Though we did take our time with the engagement.”
Lena suddenly laughed. “Now that I think about it, Kara and I did things backwards. We moved in together before saying ‘I love you’.”
Kelly laughed with her.
“That’s kind of what I’m a little nervous about.” Lena sighed. “When my house is done I don’t want Kara thinking that she has to move in with me. She has her own house plus her shop is there too.”
Kelly leaned her arm on the back of the swing. “Have you two talked about this yet?”
“No. I know we should. It’s just…a lot. I’m just…I’m just not used to this. I know I want it, without a doubt, but it’s like my entire life is being upended suddenly. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve never been happier. It’s just—” she sighed heavily, “—for the most part my life has always been out of my own control. Everyone has always had their own expectations of me and I’ve only just realized that I have the ability to take back control, live my life for me. And I’m just worried…” she teared up slightly. “What if I mess everything up? I love Kara and I love all of you and I’ve never felt so welcome in my entire life, but I—I keep hearing my mother’s voice in the back of my mind telling me that I’m going to mess things up somehow.”
Kelly patted her knee sympathetically. “I know we haven’t talked a lot about your mother, but it seems like she held you to some pretty high standards.”
“Understatement.” emphasized Lena. “She would always compare me to Lex and I never seemed to quite measure up in her eyes.”
“Seeking approval and validation from family and those close to us can be complicated. Especially if you know it’s never going to be given.”
“Mm.” Lena hummed in agreement. “So how do I just…let it go? How do I stop myself from seeking that approval? How do you heal something that’s been ingrained into your mind since you were four?”
“It’s not easy.” admitted Kelly. “And it’s definitely a process. But you’ve already started it, Lena. You’ve realized how it has hurt you and doesn’t serve you.” she sat up. “Okay. I want you to try something. It’s both a practice in mindfulness and self-awareness. Whenever those thoughts come into your mind I want you to challenge them. If the thought says ‘you aren’t good enough’ ask it ‘why’. And for every negative thing I want you to counter with something positive. I want you to push back. Take that tenacity that helped you turn L-Corp into a success and use it to your advantage.”
“Okay. I’ll try that.”
Kelly smiled. “And you and Kara should talk about this.”
“I know. And we will.” she shook her head and laughed mirthlessly. “I don’t know why I’m so worried. We survived yesterday. Talking about living arrangements and where this is all going should be a walk in the park in comparison.”
* * *
Lena hadn’t wanted to leave but it was getting late and eventually, after a very heated makeout session, she headed back to the city. Her mind was racing the entire way. She wasn’t looking forward to Monday morning and being back in the constraints of office life. She was mad at herself for allowing herself to get too comfortable with this small break from reality. The taste of freedom left her only wanting more. And when she got to her penthouse she was struck by how empty it felt, how quiet. She supposed it was the perfect metaphor for her life before Kara.
Sam and Jack took her out for dinner on Monday night to make sure that she was doing okay. Lena told them as much as she could while respecting Kara’s privacy. Jack made a joke about Kara giving him wrestling lessons to which Sam made a joke about him getting crushed between her thighs.
“And I would willingly let her.” he smirked.
Something flared within Lena.
“Don’t talk about Kara like that.” her eyes narrowed dangerously.
Jack looked confused. “Like what?”
“I would prefer it if you wouldn’t objectify my girlfriend.”
Jack recognized the look she was giving him and backed down.
“Okay. Okay. I’m sorry.” he held up his hands. “I won’t do it again.”
“Thank you.” Lena said tersely.
She took a sip of her red wine. “I’m sorry, Jack. It’s just…after this weekend I find myself particularly protective of Kara.”
“I see that.” said Jack. “You really are in love with her aren’t you?”
Lena softened. “I am.” she said simply. “And that’s why I need to talk to you two.”
Jack and Sam looked at each other.
“I was planning on doing this later this week, or possibly next—” Lena started, “—I think things went well these last few weeks with me working remotely. Despite what my anxiety was screaming at me, the world didn’t come to an end and L-Corp is still standing in one piece. So I was thinking of making this a more permanent thing.”
Sam put down her drink. “Wait. Does this mean what I think it means?”
Lena nodded. “To a degree. I won’t be stepping completely aside from CEO, but I will be giving both of you more responsibilities. If things continue to go smoothly, I think by November we could be looking at both of you stepping up and me returning to my research.”
Sam looked at her seriously. “Are you sure about this? Neither Jack nor I want you to do anything that you don’t want to do.”
Lena took a deep breath as the familiar voice in her mind started. She closed her eyes a moment.
“Yes. I want to be happy. I deserve to be happy.” she said as much out loud to her friends as well as the voice. “And this will make me happy. I knew I was unhappy before but—” she spun her glass in her fingers, “—after getting to spend time doing research without having to worry about the usual things it opened my eyes to just how…lost I’ve been.”
Sam and Jack just sat silently. Lena looked around the restaurant. Their booth was relatively secluded and up against a back wall. No one was paying them any attention.
“There’s something I need to tell you two.” she cleared her throat. “I told Kara about this yesterday and the more I thought about it on the drive home the more I knew I needed to tell you guys.”
She finished off her wine. “Something happened nearly eight years ago that neither of you know about. At first I was just so in shock that it took a long time to process what happened. And then I was scared that if someone found out that you two knew, that your lives might be in danger.”
Jack and Sam both sat up straight.
“Danger?” echoed Jack.
Lena nodded. “Do you remember those two weeks I suddenly took a vacation when Lex and Lillian were arrested?”
“Yes?” said Jack. “We did find it curious.”
“I just figured you had probably gone into hiding.” said Sam. “I know how scared you were of Lex.”
“I sort of was in hiding. I was at my apartment. I never left.” said Lena. “Lex…he…do you remember Mercy’s brother Otis?”
Sam’s eyes narrowed. “What did he do, Lena?”
Lena steeled herself. “Otis kidnapped me for Lex. When I came to I was in some sort of warehouse. Otis beat me up, Lex was Lex and made credible threats against my life, he nearly cut my throat, and then I woke up back in my apartment.” she touched a fingertip to her scar. “I still have the scar.”
Both Sam and Jack nearly leapt out of their seats to see the scar.
“Oh. My. God!” gasped Sam.
“I’ll kill ‘im!” growled Jack.
“Lena, why didn’t you tell us sooner?” Sam searched her eyes.
“Because I was afraid.” Lena’s jaw clenched and unclenched. “He told me that he would have me killed if I testified. But I still did it. Then I spent the next four months not sleeping, thinking that any moment Otis would kill me.” she shook her head. “I didn’t want to put the two of you in harm’s way. I honestly think the only reason I’m still alive is because Lex’s fortune was gone so he couldn’t bankroll Otis anymore. That man might be just as insane as Lex but I don’t peg him as a murderer for murder’s sake. He is strictly cash driven and otherwise spineless.”
Sam started getting choked up. “Lena…Lena, I’m so sorry. You went through all of that alone for so long.”
Lena took her hands. “But I’m choosing to not be alone anymore. That’s why I told Kara, that’s why I’m telling you guys.”
Jack scooted closer and hugged her. “Thank you for telling us. I know it wasn’t easy.”
Sam joined them. “Yes. But please, please promise us that you won’t keep stuff like that from us anymore. Okay?”
“Okay.” said Lena.
“Does Kara know what prison Lex is in?” asked Jack.
Lena looked questioningly at him. “No. Why?”
“Because, after what we saw on Saturday, I’m surprised she hasn’t tried to pay him a visit.” said Jack.
“I don’t doubt that she would, if given the chance.” said Lena. “But she promised me that she would do her best to keep me safe and quote not lose my shit like that again.”
Jack couldn’t help but snort a laugh.
“You both had us really scared.” said Sam.
“Trust me, I know.” said Lena. “But Kara texted me an update on Mike today. Since he was already a flight risk the judge ruled him ‘no bail’. And apparently there were a few more charges added during lockup. Sounds like not even his smooth-talking parents will be able to help him out this time.”
“Good.” said Sam definitively. “He deserves to be locked up for the rest of his pathetic life.”
“I don’t know if we are allowed to ask, but we know that something happened between the two of them previously. What happened?” asked Jack.
Lena simply patted his hand. “I can’t tell you but let’s just say I don’t hold it against Kara for the way that she reacted.”
“To be fair, that shit stain had a knife to your throat.” said Sam. “I would have done the same.”
“And I would have.” said Jack. “Had I been able to get in there. But Kara’s people seemed to have a handle on things.”
Lena gave him a small peck on the cheek. “Your effort was noted. Thank you.”
* * *
After talking with Sam and Jack the rest of the week, barring Wednesday’s meetings marathon, had gone by smoothly. Kara kept up her texting and would call every night to make sure that she was doing okay, and would text every morning to make sure that Lena hadn’t had any nightmares the night before. There had been a close call on Thursday night but somehow Lena had been able to wake herself up. By the time Kara walked through the door on Friday Lena had nearly tackled her to the ground out of excitement.
“Hi!” laughed Kara as she caught her.
“Missed you!” Lena kissed her.
Kara kissed her back. “I missed you too.”
“So what are we doing tonight?” Lena bit her lip in excitement.
Kara smiled somewhat haughtily. “Ever hear of a little place called Matteo’s?”
“You got us reservations at Matteo’s?” Lena’s brows were up to her hairline and she laughed. “Of course you did. That’s the hottest steakhouse in town.”
“Yes it is.” smirked Kara. “We have a reservation at seven.” she kissed Lena on the nose. “I’m gonna wine and dine you, Lena Luthor, like you deserve.”
“Hmm.” Lena glanced at her watch and sighed. “We don’t have enough time for a quickie then.”
Kara wagged her brows. “There’s always time for that.”
Lena laughed as Kara buried herself in her neck.
“As much as I want to, Supergirl, even you aren’t that fast. And besides, we don’t have enough time to shower.” Lena pushed her off.
Kara pouted. Lena kissed her.
“Patience, darling. Makes the payoff later all the more worth it.” she purred in her ear.
Kara watched dumbly as Lena purposely started unbuttoning her blouse as she walked backwards to her bedroom.
“Better get ready for dinner.”
Kara barely heard her. “Mm?”
Lena just laughed as she disappeared into her bedroom. Kara narrowed her eyes playfully at the door and grabbed her suit bag and overnight bag and went into the guest room.
Two can play that game.
She specifically took her time getting ready, keeping an ear out for Lena. When she heard her bedroom door open, Kara stealthily stuck her head out the door to get a glimpse of what Lena was wearing so that she wouldn’t be the one struck speechless. Lena must’ve been in quite the mood because the red dress she was wearing seemed like it was specifically designed to make Kara’s brain short-circuit. Her hair was gathered up and Kara wanted to sink her teeth into the delicate muscle under smooth pale skin.
“Kara?” Lena called as she put in her diamond earring.
Kara ducked back into the bedroom so fast she smacked her head on the doorframe.
“Fuck!” she whispered harshly as she held her head.
She quickly checked herself in the mirror to make sure there wasn’t a mark or bruising and breathed a sigh of relief. She gave herself one last once-over and stepped out. Lena’s brain came to an obvious stop and Kara smirked. She stood with her hands in her pockets and with a cocky grin on her face. She was wearing the three piece navy blue suit that Lena had bought her, with a pale blue dress shirt and matching navy tie. She may or may not have done some pushups and body squats to pump up her muscles and may or may not have been flexing as well. It was having the desired effect as Lena bit her lip and slinked over to her, running her hands over the hard muscles of her arms. It only made Kara smirk harder.
“Why, Miss Luthor, if I didn’t know any better I’d say you’re dangerously close to messing up your lipstick.”
Lena hooked a finer under Kara’s tie and pulled slightly, trying to not mess it up. Kara willingly moved. Lena put her lips near Kara’s ear and whispered hotly.
“And you’re playing a dangerous game that I don’t think you’re going to win.”
She smiled wickedly as she pulled back. Kara held her gaze.
“I think you underestimate how competitive I am.”
“Same.” Lena’s eyes sparkled. “But something tells me that we will both walk away winners.”
* * *
Matteo’s wasn’t super intimate but the low lighting and the fireplace they were seated near made it more romantic.
“Too bad they don’t have oysters.” said Lena as she looked through the menu.
“If you’re looking for an aphrodisiac look no further than the steak selection.” said Kara absent-mindedly as she looked through the menu herself.
Lena arched a sculpted brow. “Oh?”
Kara set down her menu. “You are of a medical mind so I think you might find this interesting.”
Lena set down her menu. “Are you about to try and convince me that beef is an aphrodisiac?”
“Yep. And I’m going to do it with science to boot.” smiled Kara. “In order to experience physical arousal humans need adequate blood flow and hormonal balance. Red meat is, in my opinion, the best treatment for iron deficiency anemia. More red blood cells means more oxygen. Better oxygenation improves endothelial function. Protein also helps with cellular repair of any damaged endothelium. As you know, the endothelium is responsible for producing nitrogen oxide that is responsible for proper vasodilation.” Kara lowered her voice so only Lena could hear. “Which means the clitoris becomes enlarged and sensitive.”
She stumbled a moment as she felt a curious foot start stroking up her leg.
“Keep talking.” purred Lena. “I like it when you talk science.”
Kara smirked. “Beef also contains saturated animal fat which is necessary for human health, specifically for our fatty brains and hormones. I’ll save the spiel on Ancel Keys’ falsified study on saturated fat for another dinner. But a healthy brain means all the right stimulating signals come through loud and clear.”
The foot moved higher.
“And all of our hormones have a cholesterol base. Good cholesterol means good hormones, which means optimal arousal. Not to mention it aids in proper natural lubrication.”
Kara smirked as she took a drink of her water.
“Mmm.” Lena hummed lowly in her chest, eliciting goosebumps on Kara’s arms. “Excellent presentation, Miss Danvers. I think you make great case for your choice of dining establishments.”
Kara flashed a cocky grin again. “So have I swayed you?”
“Perhaps. I suppose I would have to order the steak and do a little testing later on.”
Kara chuckled low in her chest. “If you think my sex drive is high now, you should have seen me when I did a six month stint on the carnivore diet. I’m surprised I didn’t break my vibrator.”
Lena flushed from the chest up. “It’s honestly hard to imagine you even more…”
Kara laughed politely. “Not to get too graphic, since we are in public, but we’re talking every morning and every night and multiple times on my days off. Though I suppose there was a little influence from the steroids being in my body. Some of the esters can last up to a year in your system, though the effect is somewhere around less than one percent, but still.”
Even in the dim light Kara could tell Lena’s eyes were starting to dilate.
“Shall I tell you about the benefits of beef liver as a replacement to chemical-based multivitamins, Miss Luthor?”
Lena just laughed and ended up getting the steak and was more than keen to put everything to the test later.
Notes:
I hope I can one day find a beautiful woman like Lena who gets turned on by science lol.
Chapter Text
Kara’s eyes bugged out of her head in surprise as Lena suddenly spun around and pinned her to the door. Her tie was already askew and Lena’s hair was falling out of its pins from their heated makeout session in the car on the way back to the penthouse.
“Someone’s in a mood.” Kara laughed.
Lena twirled Kara’s tie around her fingers and slowly started pulling her down.
“Mmhmm.” Lena hummed in her chest. “I missed you and tonight was amazing.” she pouted. “Although I am a little disappointed that we didn’t get dessert.”
Kara’s eyes flashed. “Who said that we weren’t going to have dessert?”
She gave Lena a kiss. “Can I have my tie back for a minute?”
Lena laughed and let her go. Kara went over to the refrigerator.
“So I might’ve sneaked something in here earlier.”
She pulled out a container and a bottle of champagne.
“Now I know that this is cheaper stuff than you’re used to but I’m hoping that you’ll be able to overlook that.”
Lena didn’t even look at the bottle as she walked over and kissed Kara deeply.
“I don’t care about the label, Kara.”
Kara smiled. Lena got out two glasses. Kara opened the container.
“Dark chocolate dipped strawberries made by yours truly.” Her eyes suddenly lit up and she snapped her fingers. “Oh, almost forgot.”
She open the fridge again and pulled out a small bottle of chocolate sauce with a devilish grin and handed it to Lena.
“Strawberries aren’t the only thing that’s for dessert tonight.”
Lena arched a dangerous brow as the read the label. “Body safe chocolate sauce?”
Kara licked her lips and nodded. She wrapped her arms around Lena’s waist and pulled her in gently.
“I’ve been doing a lot of thinking this week.”
“Oh?”
Kara suddenly softened. “Yeah. And, um, I thought a lot about what you said to me Saturday night.”
Lena immediately changed gears and looked at her with concern.
“It’s good thinking.” assured Kara. “I promise.” she took Lena’s hands in her own. “I, um, I think I might be ready to…to try…” she cleared her throat.
Lena cradled her face gently and looked into her eyes. “Kara. I don’t want you to do this just for me. I don’t want to do anything that you’re not ready for.”
Kara nodded. “I know. I know. And you’re not pressuring me. Okay? I want to at least try. For myself.”
“Okay.” Lena said softly. “Tell me what you need me to do.”
“Let me take care of you first?”
“Okay.”
Kara picked up a strawberry and traced Lena’s lips with it. Lena smiled devilishly and bit into the ripe fruit.
“God that’s good.” her eyes threatened to roll back into her head.
Kara just laughed and finished off the strawberry. She poured the champagne. They spent the next twenty minutes slowly undressing each other while sipping on the champagne and feeding each other the strawberries, which was surprisingly difficult in between the kissing and giggling. Soon enough both of them were stripped bare.
Lena had pulled back the sheets on her bed and was now laying reclined on the mattress, her raven hair fanned out behind her. Kara stood with the warmed chocolate drizzle in her hands as she drank her in. A slight flush creeped up Lena’s chest to her cheeks.
“You’re so beautiful.” Kara breathed.
She crawled up the bed and hovered over her.
“How are you even real?”
Lena reached up and cupped Kara’s jaw. “I ask myself the same question every day.”
Kara leaned down and kissed her deeply. She suddenly broke off the kiss.
“I’m going to devour you.” she whispered hotly in Lena’s ear.
A deep shudder went through Lena. Kara sat back, opened the chocolate, and started drizzling it all over Lena. Lena couldn’t help but giggle. Kara snapped the lid shut and reached over and put it on the night stand. She immediately started licking her way through the chocolatey trail she made. Lena wriggled under her hot mouth and nipping teeth. Kara did her best to stay hovering over her so as to not get the chocolate all over herself and possibly on the sheets. Lena tried to pull her closer but Kara snatched her wrists and pinned her arms to the bed. Lena whimpered as a hot mouth enveloped a chocolatey nipple. Kara hummed deep in the back of her throat at the taste and the sensation of the stiffening flesh under her tongue. She laved her tongue along the chocolate trail to the other nipple that was now stiff and begging for attention. Lena thrust her chest upwards. Kara obliged and palmed her other breast, rolling her nipple between her fingers. She licked her way further down Lena’s body. Her tongue following the spiral she had drawn in chocolate on her belly. Lena laughed at the slight tickling sensation. Kara looked up and smiled at her as she moved lower. Lena trapped her lower lip between her teeth in anticipation. Kara kissed the inside of her thighs before licking a hot stripe through her, moaning at the taste. Lena inhaled sharply through her nose and whimpered. Kara was taking her time, recommitting every part of Lena to memory, bringing her close to the edge and then backing off over and over again. She smoothed her hand up Lena’s thigh, leaving goosebumps in its wake. She looked up. Lena was a writhing and sweaty mess. Her chest was heaving as she panted. Kara teased her with a flick of her tongue, causing Lena’s abdomen to clench. Kara then teased her fingers at Lena’s entrance. Lena’s head snapped up as she looked at Kara. Her hair was a mess and sticking to her forehead and her face was flushed.
“Kara.” she whined. “Please.”
Kara smiled and nipped at her hip as she slipped in two fingers. Lena’s head fell back onto the bed with a gasp. Kara watched in awe as Lena’s hips started to cant to meet her thrusts. She kissed the crease of Lena’s thigh and started to curl her fingers. Lena’s hips stuttered a moment. Kara kissed her way back over to Lena’s clit and swiped her tongue. Lena’s jaw went slack and she gasped loudly as her thighs started to shake. The throbbing low in her own hips was getting stronger but Kara was determined to hold off. She focused on keeping her hips still and her legs apart so she couldn’t squeeze them together for some relief. There was a growing nervousness in the back of her mind.
She kept her pace slow and deliberate, making Lena a writhing, whimpering mess.
“Kara—” Lena whined helplessly.
Kara wrapped her lips around her clit and sucked, flicking her tongue, instantly she could feel Lena’s walls clench around her fingers. Lena could feel the roaring fire building to impossible heights. Her foot cramped as her toes dug into the mattress. Every muscle in her body was straining and her body was taut. Somewhere in the back of her mind she had enough conscious thought to think that Kara was purposely trying to slowly kill her. After what felt like forever, Kara sped up and Lena was sent rushing over the edge. Her breath froze in her chest as her body arched up off of the bed. Her mouth was open in a silent scream. Heat and crackling energy raced up her spine and exploded out the top of her head in a blinding white light.
Kara gently kissed her way up Lena’s body as she came down from her orgasm. Lena finally blinked back to reality.
“Holy fuck, Kara.” she panted.
Kara smiled and kissed her. “Told ya steak is an aphrodisiac.”
Lena barked a laugh. She looked over at Kara.
“Are you still wanting to try?”
Kara took one of her hands and laced their fingers together. “Yeah.” she kissed the back of her hand.
“Okay. Just give me a minute to catch my breath.”
Kara chuckled. “No rush.”
Lena purposely rolled on top of Kara as she reached over for the chocolate. Kara was quickly reduced to a giggly mess as Lena drizzled the chocolate over her. Lena licked at the chocolate on her neck and hummed contentedly.
“Mmm…I can already feel the sugar buzz restoring my energy.”
“Good.” Kara smiled rakishly. “’Cause if this works you’re gonna need your strength later.”
Lena’s head popped up from her sternum. “You have something more planned?”
Kara hooked a finger under Lena’s jaw and pulled her back up for a kiss.
“You’ll just have to wait and see.” she whispered on her lips, sending another deep shudder through Lena.
Lena responded by dragging her teeth down Kara’s neck and latching onto an aching nipple covered in chocolate. Kara let out a soft moan. Lena wanted to race ahead but knew that she needed to take her time. Kara was trusting her and willing to be vulnerable in a way that was incredibly difficult for her. She stuck with the familiar territory that she had covered in chocolate and made it known how much such loved quite literally licking Kara’s flexed abs. When all traces of chocolate were gone she crawled back up and laid next to Kara. She kissed her gently.
“Tell me what you need.”
Kara took a shaky breath. “Well, I’m insanely turned on, so I’m hoping that that’s enough to overcome any potential mental block. I guess just starting simple would be best.”
“Okay.” Lena nodded. “How do you feel about penetration?”
“Um…” Kara shrugged. “I mean, I don’t mind it. It’s worked for me before, but I just, like, really need to be in the mood for it.”
“Do you think you are?”
“I don’t know. Maybe?”
“Okay. What if we work up to it?”
“Okay.”
Lena kissed her. “Would it be okay if I touched you now?”
Kara chewed her lip a moment and took a deep breath. “Okay.”
Lena kissed her again. “Just try to relax. And if you want me to stop, I’ll stop. This isn’t about me, Kara. This is about you.”
She started kissing Kara again, placing her hand on her abs. She waited until she felt Kara relax before slowly moving lower. She paused a moment as her fingers touched wiry hair and Kara stiffened again.
“Are you okay? Do you want me to stop?” Lena checked.
Kara closed her eyes. “I’m okay. I’m okay. Keep going.”
Kara started kissing her. Lena’s hand traveled lower and she couldn’t help the smile as she felt copious wetness waiting for her.
Kara found herself caught between two worlds. One part of her brain was screaming that this was wrong and that she needed to stop, but another part, one that she had been carefully cultivating over the last week and was currently soaked in arousal, told her to keep going, to keep trying.
Lena started moving her fingers slowly. Kara’s abs flexed hard at the strange sensation. Her brain was trying to reconcile that it wasn’t her own hand that was making her feel this way.
“You okay?” Lena said softly.
Kara realized that she had stopped kissing Lena and was laying flat on her back now with her eyes squeezed shut.
“Yeah.” she said shakily. “Keep going.”
“Do you want me to go faster?”
Kara let out a shaky breath. “Sure.”
Lena sped up slightly. Kara’s abs flexed again and her thighs started to quiver. Somewhere in the back of her mind things finally clicked and she realized that she was truly okay. She opened her eyes and looked at Lena and saw nothing but love in her eyes. It took her mind a second to catch up. The part of her mind that had been screaming at her to stop had also tried one last time to tell her that Lena would be disgusted, but the moment she saw Lena’s face she knew that that voice was lying to her. Kara could feel herself racing towards the edge when something came over her.
Fuck it. Just do it.
“Stop.”
Lena’s hand immediately stopped and a worried look came over her. “I’m sorry. That was too fast, wasn’t it? Kara, I’m so sorry.”
Kara shook her head. “No, it’s fine. It’s fine. I just…” she summoned all her courage. “I want you…I mean…I think I want to try…”
Lena searched her eyes a moment. “Are you sure?”
Kara nodded. “Yes.”
“Because you don’t have to.”
“I know.” she cupped Lena’s jaw. “I trust you, Lena.”
Lena fought tears as she leaned in and kissed her. “I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Lena moved slowly but intentionally. She paused a moment as she reached Kara’s hips. Now that she thought about it, she hadn’t even seen Kara like this before. Kara met her gaze and swallowed hard and slowly opened her legs. Lena waited a moment before looking down. She couldn’t help the involuntary lip bite as she looked back up to Kara.
“Thank you. I know that wasn’t easy.” she said softly.
Kara just nodded. Lena lowered herself and kissed low on Kara’s abs, lower than she ever had before. Kara was shocked that her anxiety was nowhere to be found. Whatever last niggling thought she had in her mind was smashed the moment Lena looked at her and couldn’t hide her own desire and arousal.
“Okay.”
Lena stuck out her tongue and gently licked through her slick folds once. Stopping to give Kara a chance to acclimate to the new sensation and to tell her to stop if she needed to. Kara inhaled sharply through her nose and let out a shaky breath.
“It’s okay.” she assured Lena. “It’s okay.”
“Okay.” Lena echoed.
She licked again. Kara was still not totally relaxed but seemed to be okay. She couldn’t help it as her eyes rolled in the back of her head. Kara tasted so good and to finally be allowed to taste her was an aphrodisiac all on its own. Something clicked in her mind and she lifted her head up.
“You taste so good.” she said low in her chest. “I would do this all night if you let me.”
It was exactly what Kara needed to hear. Her body relaxed as all of the tension left her. And as Lena licked through her again a strangled moan rumbled in her chest. As much as she wanted to dip her tongue into Kara, she held herself back. When Kara was ready for penetration she would let her know. This moment was about Kara and Kara only, her own desires be damned.
Though Kara was silent as usual Lena could tell that she was getting close. Her thighs were starting to shake a little and she could feel the telltale spasms under her tongue.
“I’m close.” Kara managed to softly grunt.
Lena didn’t change a thing and kept things steady. Soon enough she was rewarded for her efforts as Kara’s body flexed and she grunted. Lena smiled internally as she felt Kara’s clit pulse rhythmically under her tongue. Remembering what Kara said about being sensitive, she licked up the last of her arousal before climbing back up. Kara’s hands were over her face as silent sobs shook her. Lena’s heart immediately sank.
“Oh my god. Kara. I’m so sorry—”
“No, no. It’s not that.” Kara still hid under her hands.
Lena put a warm hand on her chest to ground her. “Talk to me.”
She waited patiently as the silent sobs slowly stopped. Kara wiped her eyes and looked at her.
“Thank you.” she whispered.
Tears stung Lena’s eyes as Kara pulled her in for a kiss.
“I love you.” said Kara.
“I love you too.” said Lena.
They broke their kiss and Lena wiped away Kara’s tears.
“Again. You taste amazing.” said Lena softly. “I really honestly could do that all night.”
Warmth bloomed in Kara’s chest.
“Really?”
“Really.”
“Thank you.”
“And thank you for allowing yourself to be vulnerable in that way with me.”
Kara kissed her again. Suddenly, a loud alarm started blaring from Lena’s phone on the kitchen counter.
“Fuck!” Lena’s eyes were wide with fear as she practically dove off the bed and ran for it.
Kara sat up. “Lena? Lena, what’s wrong?”
Lena came back in, her eyes glued to the screen. Kara started to worry.
“Lena?”
“Fuck! Shit! Shit fuck!” shouted Lena.
Kara jumped up from the bed. “What? What’s going on?”
Lena’s jaw clenched. “L-Corp’s servers are being attacked. That sound was a security alert.”
“What?” Kara looked at the screen knowing full well nothing would make sense. “Do you know who it is? What are they doing?”
Lena suddenly threw her phone on the bed and started getting dressed.
“They’re going after my nanobot design.” Lena said through clenched teeth. “I won’t know who it is until I get to the office. Whoever it is locked me out of remote access.”
Kara started grabbing her clothes. “What do you need me to do?”
Lena stopped and grabbed Kara’s arms. “I need you to just stay here. I’m sorry I have to go. But unfortunately you don’t know subroutines and multi-authentication layered security protocols. It’s going to take Jack and I both to stop this. As much I would love to have you with me I can’t have the distraction.”
Kara nodded. “I totally understand. Go. Catch the fuckers and make them pay. And call me if you need anything.”
She kissed Lena. “I’m serious.”
“I know.”
* * *
Lena had hoped that it would only take a few hours but a few hours suddenly turned into Saturday afternoon. She had been able to step away for a brief moment to call Kara to update her and to tell her to just go home. The digital thumbprint that she had found was one that was familiar to her.
Lord Industries.
It had confounded her to no end that they hadn’t taken anything though. But they had definitely been looking for something, that much she was certain of. She and Jack finally had everything secured and thoroughly combed through by Saturday evening. And as she trudged through her door to yet again an empty penthouse she felt a longing deep within. She hadn’t been ready to say goodbye to Kara so soon and had felt utterly robbed of such a deep intimate moment that they hadn’t even been able to talk about yet. So after a hot shower and a quick dinner she climbed into bed at six and called Kara. It took some effort to stay awake but in the end she managed to convince her that things were okay and that she was going to come up Sunday and take Monday off so that they could talk about the previous night and try to get back the time that was stolen from them.
* * *
Kara's phone rang and she smiled at the screen.
"Hey!"
"Hey!" Kara could practically hear Lena's relieved smile through the phone. "Just calling to let you know that I'm headed your way."
"Did you guys get everything squared away for sure?"
"Yep. Took a little longer than expected but it's done."
"Good."
“So how’s your shift been? Pretty crazy?”
“Actually, it’s been quiet all day. Kyrpton’s had a bunch of calls though. But that’s how it goes sometimes. Feast or famine. But I’ve been keeping myself busy beating James’ ass in video games so there’s that. Stress relief basically.”
Lena chuckled. "Speaking of stress relief, god, my neck is like a rock. I could use a massage."
Kara smirked. "I'd be more than happy to help with that."
James wolf whistled and earned himself a punch in the shoulder. Lena's laughter rang out and Kara blushed a little.
"I think I'd very much like that, darling. I'll be home in a little over an hour."
"Perfect." grinned Kara. "My shift is over in two."
"I'll see you at home then. Love you."
"Love you too."
Kara hung up with a familiar dopey grin. James eyed her.
"You're really in love with her, aren't you?"
Kara thought a moment before meeting his gaze. "Yeah...I really am."
He suddenly chucked a wireless controller at her which she barely caught.
"No more stalling. You owe me a COD rematch."
Kara just laughed. A little over an hour later Kara had another three wins under her belt and James was still begging for another rematch and Barry was chomping at the bit for his own turn. Suddenly, three very distinct short tones blared over the PA system.
"Uh oh, that's Rescue." said James as he started heading towards the bay and his turnout gear.
The rest of the rescue team were headed that way as well. Kara and Barry listened to the dispatch. There was a rollover near the county line.
"Wow. I'm surprised they didn't send Krypton." said Barry.
"They must still be on that other call from earlier." noted Kara. “Besides, I don’t know about you but I could use something to do.”
Moments after Rescue was dispatched a short tone followed by a long one went out.
“Aaaand there’s us.” Barry pointed at the speaker.
He and Kara jogged into the bay and hopped into the ambulance, leaving mere seconds before James and the rest, all flying down the road signal 10. Since it was near the county line it had taken a few minutes to get there. As Kara drove closer to where the scene of the accident was she could see a few people that had come out of their homes and were trying to help direct traffic around the incident. In the dim evening light she could see that it was a black car that had very much rolled over at a high rate of speed and was now resting completely upside down on its roof. There was glass all over the place. She carefully parked the ambulance. Something didn’t feel right, she couldn’t place what it was but all of the hair stood on the back of her neck. James pulled the rescue truck a little bit closer and the crew got out and immediately went to check on the passengers. Kara and Barry both went around to the back of the ambulance and got their gear and the cot, letting the firefighters make sure that the scene was safe and secure and that the vehicle was stable before attempting an extrication. Just as Kara climbed out of the ambulance with her bag she heard James yell.
“KARA!”
Kara’s heart leapt up into her throat. She had only heard him yell that frantically a handful of times over the years.
“Go!” said Barry. “I’ve got the cot!”
Kara nodded and ran towards the car. As she got closer a horrible feeling lodged itself in her gut.
She recognized the car. She picked up speed and nearly dropped her bag. James suddenly stepped in front of her, his eyes filled with worry.
“It’s going to be okay. Todd is already inside holding C-spine. We’re going to get her out. Okay?”
Kara’s vision tunneled as her blood roared through her ears. She shoved the bag into James’ hands and rushed over and dropped to her knees to peer inside the smashed passenger window. Todd was inside and wedged tightly between the seats sitting on the ceiling of the car that was now the floor. Held in her seat by her seatbelt and hanging upside down with her head and neck in Todd’s hands was a bloody and unconscious Lena.
“Lena!” yelled Kara.
“We’re going to get her out of here, Kara, don’t worry. Okay? She’s still breathing.” Todd tried to keep her calm, but Kara didn’t even hear him.
“Kara? Kara!”
Kara snapped out of her shock and caught Todd’s eyes.
“Kara, I need you to focus. Alright? I need you to get me a C-collar. Can you do that?”
Kara nodded her head silently and stumbled backwards a moment. Barry was right behind her and already had a collar in his hand.
“Do you—”
Kara snatched the collar out of his hand and immediately crawled back inside the car. Her hands were shaking almost uncontrollably as she carefully worked around Todd’s hands and secured the collar around Lena’s neck.
“Go. I’ve got C-spine.” she told Todd.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes!” barked Kara. “Just get her out of here!”
The firefighters worked quickly. Since all of the doors were either jammed or smashed the only way to get Lena out was the Jaws of Life and the ram. Kara ran her thumb over Lena’s cheek.
“It’s okay, baby. It’s okay. We’re going to get you out of here soon. Okay?”
“Kara?” Barry poked his head in. “Kara, I know it’s Lena but I need you to tell me what’s going on. I need you to focus and assess her. Alright?”
Kara nodded her head and bit back her tears and cleared her throat. “Um. Airways are clear. Small head lac about 3 centimeters long with bruising. Possible head trauma. Airbag was successfully deployed.” she turned her wrist ever so and watched the seconds on her watch while trying to count Lena’s breaths. “Respirs are 11. I, uh, I can’t get her pulse. Um. No obvious extremity deformities. Dash is intact. Breach on driver’s side door, but she’s not pinned.”
“Good. Okay. I’m going to come around to the other side and try to check her pulse.” said Barry.
Kara nodded mutely. In seconds Barry appeared at the other side and carefully reached in and felt for Lena’s pulse on her wrist. He looked at his watch and counted.
“Pulse is 64 and strong.” he told her. He reached in an attached a small monitor to one of Lena’s fingers. “Pulse ox reading 98% so we’re good there.”
“Good.” echoed Kara.
James poked his head in on the passenger side. “Kara, we’re getting the Jaws ready. I’ve got a blanket that I’m going to cover you both up with to keep debris from hitting you.”
Kara just nodded again. James and Todd worked in tandem to make sure that she and Lena were covered as best as possible. In the darkness of the blanket Kara could only just make out Lena’s face. She kept brushing her thumb across her cheek and sending up prayers to every deity that might be listening that Lena would just open her eyes.
“Please wake up, Lena. Please, baby. Please. Come on. I know you can do it.” she begged. “Please, baby, please. Wake up. Come back to me.”
The sound of the gas generator and air compressor engines roared in her ears. She could see streaks of light from the emergency spotlights.
“Kara! We’re going to start cutting!” shouted James over the din.
The sound of steel being cut and crunched under the hydraulic steel jaws rang out in her ears but all Kara could focus on was Lena. It felt like lifetimes were passing her by as she begged for Lena to open her eyes. Soon enough she could feel another person moving around her.
“Kara, we’re positioning the ram. Just a few more minutes.” came Todd’s voice.
Kara could hear the sound of the car’s metal frame being compressed as the ram forced the driver door wide open. The blanket was soon pulled off of her and Lena. Barry and the rest of the firefighters already had the backboard and cot outside of the vehicle. It took some negotiating and cutting her seatbelt, but blessedly Lena was finally out of the car and secured to the cot, Barry calling out to Kara that there were no spinal deformities noted. Kara came crawling out and immediately shut everything down and went into paramedic mode. She grabbed her bag and raced to the back of the ambulance while Barry wheeled Lena over. By the time Barry got the cot secured in the back Kara was already using her scissors to cut Lena’s sleeves and shirt. Barry had thankfully remained silent and fell into lockstep with her, cutting her jeans to check for wounds and deformities in her legs and feet. Kara tossed him the IV kit. By the time he got two 16 gauge IVs started, one in each of Lena’s arms, Kara had already attached her to the heart monitor and was gathering her vitals. She closed her eyes as she used her stethoscope to listen to Lena’s heart and lungs and then her abdomen.
“Heart tones regular. Lungs clear. Bowel sounds active x4. No bruising or abrasions noted.” she said monotone as she checked the rhythm. “Normal sinus. BP 108 over 60.”
James poked his head in. “You guys need me to drive?”
“Yeah.” Barry answered.
Kara paid him no mind as she continued with her assessment. She dimmed the lights and pulled out her pen light and checked Lena’s pupils.
“Pupils sluggish. Right side slightly larger than left. Possible concussion.”
“Normal saline started.” answered Barry.
James started to pull out and flipped on the lights and sirens.
“Methodist in Argo City.” Barry called out to him.
“Got it!” hollered James.
Kara moved back up to Lena’s head and felt around her scalp with her gloved hands. “No other head wounds. No drainage from the ears or nose.”
She balled up her fist and harshly rubbed her knuckled on Lena’s sternum. No reaction.
“Not responsive to painful stimuli.” Kara put her hands around Lena’s ribs and felt around and pushed. “Ribs intact. Bruising noted across shoulder and chest, consistent with seat belt.”
Barry frowned. “I think her right wrist might be broken. I’ll splint it.”
Kara finished her assessment while Barry splinted Lena’s wrist. The heart monitor was set up to take Lena’s vitals every five minutes and blessedly nothing had changed. Kara’s jaw was clenched tight as she held Lena’s hands and stared at her, willing her to open her eyes. With the exception of the sirens the ambulance was otherwise silent. Kara performed regular assessments and checked Lena’s vitals while Barry took notes and started working on Lena’s patient chart.
“ETA five minutes.” James eventually called out.
Kara reluctantly moved to the jump seat and flicked on the radio and turned it to Methodist’s channel.
“Medic 44 to Methodist ER, Medic 44.” she called.
A few seconds later a voice crackled over the radio. “Methodist, go ahead 44.”
“We’re enroute with a thirty year old female involved in a single vehicle accident, unknown speed. Vehicle had rolled over. Unknown how many times. Extrication time approximately five minutes. Damage noted to driver compartment. Patient is boarded and collared. GCS 3. Pulse 72 and normal sinus. BP 110/68. Respirations 16. And O2 is 98% on room air. Patient has 16 gauge IVs in both ACs. ETA three minutes.”
“Thank you, Medic 44. Room 3 on arrival.”
Chapter 16
Notes:
Lena was born in '93 blah blah blah. changed the year for the fic. just roll with it.
Chapter Text
Kara was only vaguely aware that James had followed them into the ER as they wheeled the still unconscious Lena in. Other than constantly assessing and reassessing Lena’s vitals her mind was blank. She mechanically steered the cot into room 3, with several nurses and two doctors right behind her.
Trauma team has been activated. Totally normal and expected for a level 1. ER, Ortho, Neuro. Trauma surgery team on standby. She’s going to be okay.
“Thirty year old female, single vehicle rollover. No witnesses. Neighbors called 911 after hearing the crash. Unknown how many times the car rolled over. Patient was trapped upside down for approximately fifteen minutes. Total extraction time 5 minutes. She did have her seatbelt on and airbags successfully deployed. Minor door intrusion on driver’s side.”
Kara rattled off as everyone gathered around to help transfer Lena from the cot to the gurney.
“On 3. 1, 2, 3.”
They slid Lena and the backboard over onto the bed. Kara stepped back and let the ER team take over as she continued to talk.
“Last vitals. BP 111/70, heart rate 64, 98% on room air, normal sinus rhythm. She’s got two 16’s in both AC’s with normal saline. Pupils were unequal and sluggish. Patient not responsive to sternal rub.”
She watched as the ER physician carefully had the team roll Lena on her side and quickly palpated her spine, checking for injury. Barry carefully pulled out the backboard and Lena was rolled back.
“She’s allergic to penicillin.” Kara couldn’t look away.
“Can we get an allergy band please?” the doctor announced loudly to the room.
“Got it!” responded a nurse as she put on a red wrist band with big letters saying “ALLERGY”.
The same nurse walked over to Kara carrying a clipboard. “Do you have her info?”
Kara didn’t even look at her as she watched the team carefully strip Lena down and put on a hospital gown as the doctor listened to her heart and lungs.
“Lena Luthor. Date of birth 10-24-92.” Kara reached under the cot to the small basket and pulled out Lena’s purse and wallet and handed them to the nurse.
“Thanks.” the nurse started pulling out the necessary insurance cards and her driver’s license.
Barry set the backboard on the cot and took them to clean them and get new linens. Kara stayed rooted to her spot. The nurse finished entering Lena’s information and Kara blindly took back the purse. The nurse looked at her a moment and checked her nametag.
“Uh…Kara, is it? You can just leave that here with the patient.” she said nicely.
“I’ll hold on to it for her.” Kara’s jaw clenched as she felt her emotions coming back online.
“I’m sorry, but I’m going to have to ask you to leave the patient’s belongings with her.” the nurse maintained her calm.
Kara couldn’t help the tears that started welling up in her eyes as she looked at the nurse.
“She’s my girlfriend.” her voice broke.
“Ohmygosh.” gasped the nurse. “I’m so sorry.”
Kara looked back at Lena.
“We’ll take good care of her.” said the nurse.
Kara nodded mutely as the portable X-ray team moved her out of the way. Kara mechanically stepped out of the room with the rest of the ER staff as the x-ray was taken. She rushed over to the screen and looked at it as the physician did. She might not have specific training to read it but she knew enough of the basics. Lena’s spine looked fine, as did her head, but she knew that there was still a CT scan to be done. The x-ray just cleared her of immediate danger. Barry came back just as they were taking Lena to CT.
“How’s it lookin’?” he asked gently.
Kara swallowed hard. “So far things are good. X-ray’s negative for spine damage. She’s going to CT now. Still hasn’t woken up.”
Barry nodded. “Good. I mean. Good that the x-rays didn’t show anything. Uh, James called the chief and told him what’s going on. He said that you can clock out of your shift now. He doesn’t expect you to finish.”
“’K.”
“Do you want me to call someone for you?”
“Could-could you call Winn and Coach and everyone? I’ll—I’ll call Alex and mom and grandma. And Clark.” Kara wiped a rogue tear.
“Yeah. Yeah, I can do that.” Barry hugged her tight.
Kara did everything she could to keep it together.
“She’s going to be okay.” said Barry. “Okay?”
Kara nodded. Barry gave her one last squeeze before taking the cot back out to the ambulance and making several calls. Kara walked into Lena’s empty room and sat down on one of the plain chairs in the corner and pulled out her phone. Her hands shook as she pulled up Alex’s number. She leaned heavily on her elbows and pressed call. The moment Alex picked up the floodgates opened. Sobs wracked her body.
“Kara? Kara? What’s wrong?” Alex panicked.
“I-It’s L-Lena.” Kara sobbed. “She was i-in a wreck about half an hour ago. Barry and I were the ones dispatched to the w-wreck.”
“Oh my god!” gasped Alex. “Is she okay? Where are you?”
She could hear Alex talking to Kelly and some background noise.
“Methodist.” Kara sniffed. “She’s in CT right now. But, um—” more tears cut off her voice. “She’s—” her voice cracked loudly. “She’s not waking up, Alex. Not even to a sternal rub. Her initial x-ray was clear, but I’m still scared.”
“Okay. Clear x-rays are good. But let’s wait until that CT comes back before panicking. Okay?” jingling keys. “We’re on our way right now.”
Kara’s leg started bouncing wildly. “I’m doing my best. Just waiting on her to get back. Just, uh, let me know when you guys get here. There’s not a whole lot of room and since you aren’t immediate family they won’t let you back. But, um, I’ll come out to the waiting room.” she wiped her eyes again. “I’m gonna call mom and grandma. Barry’s already calling everyone else.”
“Okay. Good. Hang in there. She’s going to be okay. She had the best medical rescue team in all of northern Indiana.” Kara could hear the smile in her voice.
“Don’t tell Mark and Chelsea that.” Kara huffed a pathetic laugh.
They hung up. Kara’s leg was still bouncing wildly as she tried to calm herself down before calling Eliza and Grandma Linda. By the time she hung up Lena was brought back in. Kara jumped to her feet and went to her side and held her hand.
“How soon will the CT be read?” she asked the nurse.
“They are reading it right now. Traumas always get bumped to top priority.” replied the nurse. “Um, I know you said that you’re her girlfriend, but does Lena have any family that we can contact?”
An image of Lillian flashed in Kara’s head. “No.”
Kara laced the fingers of her right hand with Lena’s left and kissed the back of it. She put her left hand over Lena’s heart, warming the skin underneath it.
“Please wake up, baby. I know you can.” she kissed her hand again as more tears streamed down her cheeks. “I love you.”
“Looks like her wrist is broken. Ortho just put in orders to set it.” said the nurse from her computer. “And her labs are back…oh…”
Kara’s head whipped over to her. “What?”
The nurse hesitated. “Um, I think it would be best if for the doctor to talk to you. He should be in shortly.”
Kara waited anxiously for the ER physician to come back in, she refused to leave Lena’s side and was silently begging for her to wake up. A knock on the door made her jump. The doctor came in.
“Hello, I’m Dr. Hendricks. I understand that Ms. Luthor doesn’t have any family and that you are her girlfriend?” said the doctor nicely.
“Yes.”
“And you were the medic on scene?”
“Yes.”
The doctor shook his head. “That had to be difficult. I’m sorry.” he flipped through the papers on his clipboard. “Can I ask you a couple of questions about Ms. Luthor?”
Kara nodded.
“Does she have seasonal allergies?”
“No.”
“Does she take any medications?”
“No.”
The doctor made a note. “The reason I’m asking is because while her tox screen was negative for ETOH or narcotics, there was a high level of diphenhydramine in her system.”
Kara’s brow furrowed. “Benadryl?”
The doctor nodded. “The level was high enough to be considered an overdose.”
Kara vehemently shook her head. “She would never overdose. There’s no way.”
“Well, regardless, I’m ordering physostigmine. While she does have a moderate to severe concussion, I believe that this is what is contributing to her poor cognitive status. It would also explain the lack of severe injury despite the severity of the accident.”
“What do you mean?”
“If she fell asleep at the wheel it could be compared to a drunk driver situation. Her body was relaxed enough that she wasn’t able to brace or try to stop the impact.”
Kara nodded. “I get it. I’ve seen way too many drunks walk away from things that should have killed them. So if you give her this reversal drug she should wake up?”
The doctor nodded. “That is what we are hoping for. It’s difficult to tell right now.”
“Okay.” she looked back at Lena. “I still don’t understand the Benadryl though. Lena would never take anything before going on a long drive. She was coming from National City.”
The doctor shrugged. “You’ll just have to ask her when she wakes up. If you don’t have any other questions I’m going to go put in her orders.”
“I’m good. Thank you.”
The doctor left and the nurse came back in.Kara wracked her brain for an answer. Something about this whole thing didn’t feel right. The nurse broke her out of her thoughts.
“Looks like they want to admit her to the STICU. Room 205. You can head up there if you want. They just updated that the room is ready.”
“That’s okay. I’m just gonna stay here until she goes up if that’s alright.” said Kara as she walked back over to Lena and held her hand again.
Ortho showed up soon after to put a cast on Lena’s wrist. By the time they finished the pharmacy had sent the reversal agent. Logic told Kara that it wasn’t going to work instantly, but her heart was hoping against hope that moments after the nurse administered it that Lena would wake up. Though Lena hadn’t woken up, there was a modicum of relief when the CT scan came back negative as well. No spinal injuries, no internal bleeding, and no cranial injuries. Everything was pointing to a concussion and the added effect of the Benadryl in her system. Kara figured that Lena also had a significant case of whiplash which meant lots of massage therapy and chiropractor visits to mitigate pain and further injury down the road.
By the time they took Lena up to the ICU Kara’s family had finally arrived. Kara practically ran into Alex’s arms.
“How are you doing? How’s Lena? Any updates?” Alex hugged her tight.
“The CT was negative. No spinal injuries or anything. Looking like a bad concussion.” Kara broke their hug and hugged everyone else. “Her right wrist is broken though. But she isn’t wakin’ up.”
“Why isn’t Aunt Lena waking up?” asked Esme innocently.
Kara and Alex shared a worried look. Kara knelt down to Esme’s level.
“She’s just really tired, sweetie. She got really hurt today. But the doctors and nurses are goin’ to take really good care of her.” Kara did her best to keep her tears at bay. “She also has this really cool cast that she might let you sign later when she wakes up.”
“Okay. Can I see her?”
“Not yet. We’re just goin’ to let her sleep for the night. Maybe tomorrow when she wakes up.” Kara couldn’t stop the tears this time.
Eliza hugged her close. “Oh, sweetheart. Is there anything you need?”
Kara shook her head. “No. No. I’m stayin’ the night. There’s a recliner in the room that I can sleep in. I just…I just don’t want to leave her. I can’t leave her.”
Grandma joined the hug.
“I just love her so much.” Kara sobbed. “I have to be here when she wakes up. I can’t let her wake up alone. I just can’t.”
“It’s okay.” grandma hushed. “We understand. No one is expecting you to leave.”
Kara sniffed and wiped her eyes. “You guys don’t have to stay long if you don’t want to. It will mean a lot to Lena that you even came.” she looked at Alex. “Um, Alex, could you come with me?”
“Sure.”
Kara took her back to Lena’s room and closed the door.
“The nurse showed me her labs. There was a lot of Benadryl in her system. Like, enough that they had to give her a reversal agent. The numbers on the tox screen were at overdose levels. That doesn’t sound like Lena. At all.”
“What did they give her?” asked Alex.
“Physostigmine. They gave it to her almost an hour ago and there hasn’t been any changes.”
Alex went over to the bedside and held Lena’s hand.
“I don’t think she took that Benadryl.” said Kara as she crossed her arms.
“Then how did it get in her system?” asked Alex. “Short of taking a whole bottle, she would have had to inject a dose straight into her veins for that kind of level.”
Kara’s jaw clenched. “Late Friday night Lena got an alert that someone was trying to hack into L-Corp’s servers. She freaked out. Like running out the door in the middle of the night to try and stop it. She was up all night and didn’t get home until basically 6 pm Saturday.”
“What are you saying?”
“Call me crazy but I think it’s connected to tonight.” said Kara. “I know, I know. It sounds like somethin’ out of the movies, but, Alex, you didn’t meet this bastard that I met at the gala. Real piece a’ work. As in actual veiled threats. And somethin’ tells me that this guy could actually pull somethin’ like this off.”
“Okay. Let’s say that Lena was drugged, or poisoned, or whatever. How? And why?” said Alex.
“I don’t know about how but I think I know the why. Or at least can venture a guess. I think it has something to do with a deal that Lena torched a few months ago. It’s really complicated to try and explain everything, but suffice it to say, dude was not happy.”
“Pissed off enough to try and kill her?”
Kara shrugged.
Alex looked back at Lena. “I guess we’ll just have to wait for Lena to wake up and pray that she remembers what happened.”
* * *
The first thing Lena became aware of was a headache unlike anything she had ever experienced in her life. As her awareness grew so did the pain, but it wasn’t only in her head. The muscles in her neck and shoulders felt like overstretched rubber bands. Her right wrist was throbbing and felt like something heavy was on it. And her entire body felt like she had been run over. She tried to open her eyes but they wouldn’t cooperate. Lena fell asleep again, or at least she thought she fell asleep. Her eyes finally decided to work. The room was dim and smelled like a doctor’s office.
Where am I?
She did her best to focus on her surroundings.
Am I in the hospital?
There was someone sleeping in a recliner next to her.
“Kara?” Lena rasped hoarsely.
“Kara?” she tried louder.
Kara finally stirred. The moment she made eye contact with Lena she practically vaulted out of her chair to the bedside.
“Oh my god, Lena!” tears were in Kara’s eyes as she leaned over the bedrail and kissed her forehead gently.
“Where am I? What happened?”
Kara took Lena’s uninjured hand and kissed it. “You were in a car accident, baby.” she wiped her eyes and sniffed. “A really bad one.”
Lena tried to think. “The last thing I remember was getting off of the interstate. I think. It’s all so fuzzy.” she searched Kara’s eyes. “What happened?”
“Do you really want to know?”
“Yes. Kara, please.”
Kara took a deep breath. “About an hour after you called me the tones went out for a single vehicle crash. James got to the car first while Barry and I got our gear.” she fought tears. “James yelled for me and when I got a good look at the car I knew…” she started crying. “We don’t know how it happened, but somehow your car had flipped at least once. You were still inside and hanging upside down.”
Lena’s eyes shone with tears and disbelief.
“I crawled inside to check on you while James and the rescue team cut you out.” Kara squeezed her hand. “You had me so scared. No matter what I did you wouldn’t wake up.”
“I’m sorry.” Lena started to cry.
Kara shook her head. “It’s not your fault. It’s not.” she kissed her hand again. “There, um…there is something I need to talk to you about though.” she cleared her throat. “They ran a tox screen on you. With the wreck and you being unconscious they were just covering their bases. But.” she took a deep breath. “You had a lot of Benadryl in your system. As in overdose levels.”
“What?” Lena gasped. “No.” she shook her head. “That’s impossible.”
Kara rubbed her thumb over Lena’s knuckles. “Is it possible that you were drugged?”
“What?”
“I just…think about it, Lena. Your servers get hacked and then you suddenly get into a wreck with a shitload of some drug in you? You did say that you thought the hack could be from Lord.”
Lena moved to rub her face with her right hand but stopped when she noticed the cast. “Lord wouldn’t do something like this. He doesn’t have the spine for it. Plus, he gains nothing from my death.”
“What about Edge?”
Lena’s jaw clenched, she spoke after a moment. “Unfortunately, that is a possibility.”
“Do you remember anything before the wreck? Like how someone could have slipped you something?”
Lena sighed. “I don’t know. Everything’s so fuzzy.”
“Okay.” Kara nodded and kissed her. “It’s okay. You have been through hell over the last eight hours. Plus, you have a gnarly concussion.” she tried to laugh. “We will figure this out. Okay?”
“Okay.”
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Kara hugged her and hit the button to call the nurse. The nurse came in and was happy to see that Lena was awake. After an assessment she left to go notify the doctor of her status change. Kara was just about to settle back into the chair for the rest of the night but Lena practically demanded that she crawl into bed with her. Kara debated a moment, knowing that it wasn’t proper hospital protocol, but dammit, she wanted to hold her girlfriend. So she kicked off her paramedic boots and snuggled next to her. Lena curled up close to her and put her head on her chest, the sound of Kara’s heart was comforting. It didn’t stop her mind from racing. She needed to remember what happened.
* * *
Lena was going stir crazy and it hadn’t even been 24 hours. First thing in the morning the doctor had cleared her to leave the ICU but wanted to keep her for an additional 24 hours for observation. Kara had called J’onn and had gotten the entire week off. After a quick trip home to shower and change her clothes, and get a change of clothes for Lena, Kara spent the entire day with her.
“Okay. So Bendadryl takes about thirty minutes to kick in. Which means you would have had to ingest it either just as you were leaving or while you were on your way up.” said Kara.
They were both sitting on Lena’s bed eating breakfast.
“But I didn’t have anything.” said Lena around a bite of bacon.
“When you headed up this way, did you come from your penthouse or your office?”
“Office. It’s closer to the interstate.”
“Did you and Jack eat dinner?”
“Yes.”
“Did you guys go out?”
“No. We ordered in.”
Kara cocked her head. “Where from?”
“Noonan’s. The usual place.”
“Did anything seem out of place?”
Lena shook her head. “Not from what I can remember. I got a salad, Jack got a sandwich, and then we split sticky buns.”
“I love their sticky buns.”
Lena chuckled. “I know. I actually was bringing some up for you.” her eyes suddenly lit up. “Wait! I remember putting them in my car! I’m remembering!”
“Good! Okay. Making some progress. Just don’t push yourself.”
Lena stopped eating. “We didn’t get coffee from Noonan’s.” she looked at Kara. “We forgot to order coffee so I ordered from another place closer and had it delivered.”
“Was it caffeinated?”
Lena shot Kara a look. “What do you think?”
“Then it could’ve been the coffee.” said Kara. “It makes sense. Eating dinner would have prolonged the breakdown of the Benadryl, and then the caffeine would have delayed the effects for a little bit.”
“Makes sense.”
“Did you see the delivery person?”
Lena shook her head. “I don’t remember.”
There was a knock at her door.
“Ms. Luthor?”
Lena instinctively straightened her spine as two well-dressed people walked in.
“Sorry to bother you, but your nurse said you were awake and okay to have visitors.” said the woman. “I’m Detective Chloe Decker and this is my partner Detective Luke Morningstar.”
Kara stood up. “Is everything okay?”
“Not exactly.” said Detective Decker. “There was some irregularities with your accident, Ms. Luthor.”
“What do you mean?”
“When the rescue team was extricating you they noticed that there was possible intentional structural damage to your vehicle.” said Detective Morningstar. “It appeared that someone had cut into the control arms of your wheels. A GPS device was also discovered inside the engine compartment.”
Kara and Lena both shared a look.
Detective Decker cleared her throat. “Ms. Luthor, we believe that it is possible that someone was trying to hurt you or worse.”
“Considering I was intentionally drugged I would say the latter.” Lena’s icy CEO demeanor had instantly resurfaced.
“You were drugged?” said Detective Morningstar.
Lena nodded. “The tox screen showed that I had high levels of Benadryl. Overdose levels. It’s an over the counter drug which means anyone could get their hands on it.” she sighed and looked at Kara. “I’m starting to think that that hack wasn’t actually a hack.”
* * *
Lena gladly took the Tylenol that Kara offered her.
“Thanks. Wrist was starting to hurt.” she smiled.
“Isn’t Aunt Kara a great nurse?” smiled Esme.
“Yes she is.” Lena smiled at her. “And a great paramedic and carpenter.”
“She really can do it all.” chuckled Kelly.
Lena had been discharged late Tuesday afternoon. She still had a concussion but was otherwise fine to be released. Detectives Decker and Morningstar had given her their cards and told her that they would be in touch, but Lena already knew who was behind everything, the only thing eluding her was the why and how of it all.
“Dinner’s almost ready.” said Eliza from the kitchen.
Kara’s family had insisted on making dinner for the two of them. The gesture had almost brought tears to Lena’s eyes. A family that was there for each other and actually cared was still such a foreign concept that it caught her off guard from time to time. She was currently reclining on the couch while Esme decorated her cast. Kara had informed her that people signing casts was a thing, so after everyone had signed it—Kara had signed hers with a heart—she let Esme have her fun. So now in addition to the signatures she had nearly a dozen princess and Disney stickers as well as fake jewels and colorful animal drawings.
Dinner had been what Grandma Linda called “stick to your ribs soul food”. Pot roast with carrots and homemade mashed potatoes, homemade gravy, fried sweet corn, and then homemade apple pie with coffee and vanilla ice cream for dessert. After multiple hugs and goodbyes Lena curled up on the couch with Kara.
“Should we tell them that this wasn’t an accident?” Lena said quietly.
“Not until we have all the facts.” Kara sighed as she rubbed her arm. “Plus, I don’t want them to worry. It won’t help anything.”
“But James and Barry know by now.”
“James does because of Todd. Barry doesn’t know. I asked James and the rest of the guys to keep a lid on things for now. But sooner or later it’ll get out.” she sighed. “Perks of a small town.”
Lena snorted a sarcastic laugh. “Perks of being a Luthor.”
She nearly jumped when Kara’s doorbell rang.
“Uh…you expectin’ anyone? ‘Cause I’m not.” said Kara as she got up to answer the door.
She froze the moment she opened it.
“Mother?” Lena said in disbelief. “Andrea?”
Kara was in complete shock. “How the fuck are you two on my front porch right now?”
Lillian nailed her with a look. “Hello to you too. If you would kindly let us in I could answer that.”
Kara robotically moved out of the way and let them in, still in shock.
“What are you doing here?” Lena got up off of the couch.
Lillian was looking around dismissively. “So this is where you have been staying. It’s rather…quaint.”
Andrea remained silent.
“Why are you here, mother?” Lena would have crossed her arms if she could.
Something in Lillian’s demeanor changed. “Because my daughter was nearly killed in a car wreck.”
“How do you know about that?” Kara’s brain finally caught up.
“When my daughter’s name appears in the news, no matter how small and local, I know about it.” replied Lillian. “And despite what my daughter has told you, I do actually care about her. I am her mother after all.”
“And I tracked your car.” added Andrea.
Kara’s jaw immediately clenched in anger as she put herself between Lena and Andrea.
“If you had anything to do with this—”
“I didn’t!” Andrea cut her off. “I…” she looked at Lena. “I had my suspicions about Lord so I created a Trojan to get into his servers and monitor for abnormal activity. This weekend I got an alert. Someone outside of Lord Industries was using the servers to get into L-Corp’s. I tried to trace it but couldn’t. But in the process I did discover a background program that was running a GPS tracker. The coordinates showed up as L-Corp’s parking garage.”
“My car.” breathed Lena.
“There’s more.” added Lillian. She turned grave. “Mr. Corbin has been missing for nearly a week.”
Kara looked to Lena who had paled.
“Lena? Are you okay?” Kara worried.
“What?” rasped Lena.
“He failed to check in after your ‘party’ at some race track.”
Kara’s anger flared again. “You have been trailing us this entire time?”
“Only since the gala.” said Lillian. “Mr. Lord and Mr. Edge had seemed…agitated, after your encounter.”
“Lena.” Andrea stepped up. “Edge is involved with some dark stuff. I resurrected Acrata to do a little digging.”
“Her old hacker name.” Lena informed Kara.
“He is in deep with some dark money from overseas. I think he was going to try to use Walsh Technologies to launder some serious cash.” said Andrea.
“Bastard.” bit Lena.
“Is anything you found, like, legal?” asked Kara. “Because there are already two detectives on the case. The rescue team found structural tampering on the car and a GPS device.”
Andrea shook her head. “I don’t think so.”
“So how do we get this fuckwit?” Kara’s voice was rising.
“I have a few ideas.” said Lena. “Although they all involve Mr. Corbin’s…talents.”
Lillian cleared her throat. “Clearly my daughter’s life is in danger so I say that first thing’s first, Lena, you will be safest at the Luthor mansion.”
“Out of the question.” stated Lena firmly. “I’m not going anywhere. If Edge is trying to get to me I’m safer here in Midvale. It’s a small town. He wouldn’t risk anything public here. It would be all over national news in a matter of hours.”
“And I can install a security system.” added Kara.
Lillian barely stifled a laugh. “Those paltry ‘home defense’ systems are nothing compared to what we have at Luthor mansion.”
“I’ll beef it up.” Lena stood firm. “I’m not going anywhere. I’m sure he knows by now that this is where Kara lives. If I leave then she’s vulnerable. That’s unacceptable.”
“I’m still digging for more info on Edge. If I find anything I’ll let you know. Maybe I could try doing the anonymous tipper route.” said Andrea. “But this is beyond county police. This is something that the FBI would get involved with. Potentially even Interpol.”
Kara crossed her arms. “So what do we do?”
“Well, I’m not going anywhere.” said Lena. “And, despite our past, I believe in Andrea’s ability to procure information. I say that we put in the security system here. I will work remotely like I did before. And once we have what we need, we take Edge down once and for all.”
“Lena.” Lillian stepped in. “This situation is more dire than you realize. I know that you are aware of some of Mr. Corbin’s talents, but not all of them.”
“What do you mean?” Lena looked her over.
Lillian had an inscrutable look on her face. “Do you remember Mr. Graves? That horrible man that worked for your brother?”
Lena’s jaw set. “How could I forget?”
Lillian nodded somberly. “I had Mr. Corbin start following you once Lex was arrested.” she cleared her throat. “Lena…Lex had sent Mr. Graves to kill you one night, had Mr. Corbin not stopped him.”
Lena blanched again. “What?” she croaked.
Lillian shook her head. “It was shortly after he had been transferred into the psych unit at the prison. You taking the stand against him had caused a psychotic breakdown that required chemical restraints.”
Lena’s eyes narrowed. “You’re telling me this now? After you tried to guilt me into visiting Lex?”
Lillian held her head up. “Your brother has changed over the years. He’s not the man he once was.”
Lena started to feel faint. Everything suddenly felt overwhelming. She swooned and Kara caught her.
“I think it’s best if you two leave now.” Kara looked at Andrea and Lillian. “This is all a little too much and isn’t great for someone with a traumatic brain injury.”
Andrea nodded. “Okay. I’m glad you’re otherwise okay, Lena. And if I find anything I will let you know.”
Lillian sighed. “Though I’m not happy with your choice, I suppose there is nothing that I could do to change your mind. If Mr. Corbin turns up I will let you know.” Lillian paused on her way to the door. “I really do care about you, Lena. I know I haven’t shown it very well, but, I do. I was honestly worried about you. I’m sorry.”
With that, she and Andrea left.
Chapter Text
“You about ready, darling?” Lena called from the living room.
“Yeah.” Kara put the last of the bullets in the magazine.
Lena walked in just as she put the magazine in the gun and racked one in the chamber. Kara then put the gun in her concealed holster on her hip and pulled her shirt down over it.
“You really think you need that?” said Lena.
“That’s the thing. I don’t want to need it.” said Kara as she walked over and gave her a kiss. “When I got my conceal carry permit it was because the need for a weapon was purely theoretical. But now that we know that someone is actively going after you.” she trailed off. “Criminals don’t care about the law. If someone tries something I will not hesitate to protect my family.”
Lena softened. “I’m your family?”
Kara pulled her close by her hips and held her gaze. “Of course you are, Lena. Don’t you know that? My family is your family.” she held up Lena’s bedazzled cast. “Aunt Lena.”
Lena kissed her. “I love you, Kara Danvers.”
“And I love you, Lena Luthor. Did you get ahold of Jack and Sam?”
“Yes.” They both started heading out of the house. “They’ve already increased cyber security as well as physical security at L-Corp. I also spoke with my building’s security and the four of us are the only ones allowed up to the penthouse. They will meet us there. Oh, but we will still have to watch out for the press. Unfortunately, it would seem that news of my accident finally hit the major media outlets. Although I will say that four days is the longest it’s ever taken for them to get ahold of a Luthor story. Typically we’re plastered all over the front page within hours.”
“I’m not worried about that. I just want to get your stuff and get out. The less time we’re there the better.”
They got in Kara’s truck and pulled out. Lena reached over and grabbed Kara’s hand.
“I know this might not be the best time to talk about this but since I’m essentially moving in with you—”
Kara thought about it a moment and nodded in agreement.
“—But I’ve been thinking about this for a while.” Lena nervously rubbed her thumb over Kara’s. “What do we do when my house is done?”
Kara looked confused. “What do you mean?”
“What I mean is, you already have your house. And more importantly this is where your shop is. I can’t ask you to leave it.”
“Huh.” Kara hummed. “To be perfectly honestly I never even thought about that. Every time I pictured myself with you, that was it, it was just…us. I never thought about the details really. I mean, I knew we would most likely be up here in Midvale. But, honestly—” she glanced over at Lena, “—I’m just so happy to have you in my life that I don’t care where we end up as long as it’s together.”
Lena fought tears as she smiled.
“Besides.” Kara shrugged. “We don’t have to figure this out right away. Even after your house is done. We don’t have to rush into anything if neither of us is ready. ‘K? It’s not like either of us is goin’ anywhere. At least, I’m not plannin’ on it.”
“I’m not going anywhere either.”
* * *
They weren’t meeting Sam and Jack until later in the afternoon so Kara took her time driving to the city. They stopped at Noonan’s for lunch and Kara happily ate an entire plate of sticky buns before they went to Lena’s penthouse.
“Thank god you’re alright.” Sam wrapped Lena in a huge hug the moment she opened the door.
Jack joined in. “Has Andrea found anything yet?”
Lena shook her head. “No. But hopefully after today she will. I told her our plan and she’s more than willing to be a part of it. If this works we’ll have both Lord and Edge.”
“We’ll get them. I have no doubt.” said Sam.
Jack inspected Lena’s sparkling cast. “I would love to meet your decorator.” he grinned.
Lena chuckled.
“Esme wanted to make sure that her Aunt Lena had the prettiest cast in town.” Kara smiled lopsidedly.
“Ugh.” Jack fake gagged. “You two are like a fucking Hallmark movie.”
Sam playfully smacked his arm. “Ignore him. So what do you need us to do?”
Lena looked to Kara. “We’re just packing most of my clothes for now. And my office. I might be temporarily stepping down but I can’t not work behind the scenes.”
Kara suddenly lit up and looked at Sam and Jack. “Wait until you see the new nanobot tech that she’s been workin’ on. Fuckin’ game changer for the medical world.”
“Oh?” said Jack. “You have my full attention.”
Lena smiled. “It’s still a work in progress. But I can feel that I’m close. You can actually thank Kara for the idea. We were up late one night and she was telling me some ICU horror stories related to thromboses and embolisms. While there are some helpful medications, they come with potentially severe side effects.”
Kara nodded solemnly. “I had a 78 year old lady that had inoperable clots all throughout her legs. The doctors tried treating them with TPA because if they didn’t there was a risk that a clot could go to her heart, lungs, or brain. And for a minute there it looked like it was workin’. But, um, in the middle of the night, after several hours of her treatment, her pressure started fallin’. Doc had to throw in an emergency central line. We got her pressure back up but then she flatlined an hour later, despite being givin’ a reversal agent. I’ll spare you the literal bloody details, but suffice it to say CPR tends to break bones and I had to change my scrubs. After 54 minutes she unfortunately didn’t make it. We found out later that she had a really bad retroperitoneal bleed. Which meant she essentially bled out internally. Point bein’ that if they had been able to operate to physically remove the clots she probably might still be alive.”
“Which brings us to my idea. Nanobots that ‘dissolve’ clots through a sort of phagocytosis similar to white blood cells.” said Lena. “Once the bots are done they will cross through the kidneys and would be passed after roughly forty-eight hours.”
Jack’s eyes were wide with excitement. “Lena, this is huge! This could revolutionize stroke treatments! Heart attacks!”
“It would crush Lord Industries’ micro clot retrieval system.” said Sam. “Not to mention save lives.”
“While ‘crushing’ Lord was not my original intention, it would be a satisfying by-product after everything.” said Lena. “Which is all the more reason I work remotely. There are a few things I would like to get from L-Corp but other than that I’m ready to essentially turn over the reins to the both of you.” she leaned into Kara’s side. “I’ve done a lot of thinking and I just can’t keep spreading myself so thin. And those three weeks where I got to flesh out that nanobot idea was the happiest I’ve been with work in…well, too long.”
“You’re one hundred percent sure about this?” said Sam.
“Because we don’t want to pressure you into anything.” said Jack.
“You’re not pressuring me.” assured Lena. “I want to do this.”
Kara kissed her forehead.
“Okay.” said Sam. “You ready for your meeting then?”
Kara looked at Lena quizzically. “Meeting?”
Lena turned in her arm and put a calming hand on her chest. “Yes. It’s a surprise meeting. Or rather it will be a surprise to Maxwell Lord when I walk in instead of Sam.” Lena held up a finger. “Just hear me out. Lord doesn’t know I’m in the city, much less that I’m out of the hospital or what condition I’m in, which means he will be caught off guard. Giving me the advantage. I want to confront him face to face to see what he knows.” Kara moved to speak but Lena stopped her. “As much as I would like to have you come with me, you and your little friend—” she tapped Kara’s holster, “—wouldn’t make it past security, despite Indiana being a constitutional carry state. I don’t want to draw any more attention to myself than needed.”
Kara’s shoulders sagged a little. “Okay.” she nodded. “I trust you. I mean, I don’t like you goin’ into enemy territory like that, but you know how to navigate that world better than I do. So I’ll defer to your judgement.”
Lena kissed her. “Thank you.”
“Just kinda bummed I won’t get to see the look on his face.” Kara pouted.
Lena chuckled. “I’ll do my best to describe it in meticulous detail when I get back.”
She turned to Sam. “Ready?”
Kara and Jack worked on packing up Lena’s home office while Sam helped Lena get dressed and do her hair and makeup. When Lena reappeared sans hoodie and jeans, Kara’s jaw nearly dropped to the floor. It had been a minute since she had seen Lena at full CEO power mode and the effect was not lost on her. Lena had opted for an outfit that fit around her cast. A tight black dress with a high neck line and long flowing sleeves. It was just hedging from inappropriate office wear to something worn on a night out. Her hair was pulled back into a sleek high pony tail and her makeup was smoky with her signature fierce red lip. A low throbbing sat in Kara’s hips and she wanted nothing more than to bite that luscious lower lip.
Kara flashed an impishly grin. “Hot damn.”
Lena arched a dangerous sculpted brow and pinned her with a steely gaze that sent chills down her spine.
“Imma warn you right now, Luthor.” Kara pointed at her. “If that’s what you’re gonna wear while workin’ from home, ain’t no work gonna get done.”
Lena pointedly stalked over to her in her heels.
“Is that a promise?” her eyes flicked to Kara’s lips.
Kara smiled as she leaned in. Lena suddenly leaned out of the way and put a firm hand on her chest.
“I’m sorry, darling, but you’ll have to wait. I don’t want to smudge my lipstick before my meeting.” Lena’s voice was low and dangerous.
Kara’s eyes were half-lidded and a knowing smirk slowly spread across her face. “I won’t mess up your makeup, I promise.” she brushed her lips over the shell of Lena’s ear and dropped her voice low enough that Jack and Sam couldn’t hear. “Those aren’t the only lips I want.”
Lena laughed low in her chest. “I think I may wear this home tonight.”
Her phone dinged. “Frank’s here.” she gave Kara a careful, teasing kiss. “I’ll be back in about an hour.”
* * *
“Mr. Maxwell, your three o’clock is here.” announced the secretary over the intercom.
Max didn’t look up from his work. “Thank you, please send Ms. Arias in.”
“O-kay.” he didn’t notice the hesitancy in her voice.
He heard the door open but continued to finish what he was working on.
“Ms. Arias, I will be with you in a moment just let me finish this thought.”
“Ms. Arias regrets to inform you that she won’t be able to make your meeting today so she sent me instead.” said Lena.
Max practically jumped. “Lena?”
Lena took great pleasure in the shocked expression that broke through his usually schooled exterior as she sat across from him.
“Hello, Maxwell.” she smiled with a well-earned air of superiority. “You seem surprised to see me.”
“Of course I am. I heard that you were in a terrible car accident.” said Max. “How are you?”
“Other than a broken wrist, I’m fine.” said Lena. “The doctors are actually amazed that not only am I alive, but that I’m walking. Considering how many times my car rolled over.”
Max leaned on his desk. “What happened? You must’ve been going pretty fast. I know how you like your muscle cars.”
Lena hummed a laugh. “Yes. It’s no secret that I’m partial to American muscle.” a brief image of Kara flashed in her mind. “However, the police report says that I wasn’t going more than fifty miles an hour. In fact—” she straightened her spine, “—they discovered that someone had tampered with my car.”
“That’s horrible!” Max continued to do his best to remain emotionless.
“Mm. Yes.” Lena narrowed her eyes. “But the truly strange thing was that the doctors found an exceedingly high amount of diphenhydramine in my system.”
Max’s eyebrows raised. “I had no idea you had a drug problem.”
Lena laughed mirthlessly. “Please. Don’t pretend you don’t know what that is. Look, I know it was you who hacked L-Corp’s servers. It was a brilliant attempt that I was able to shut down without any difficulty. And your digital fingerprints were all over it. This was amateur hour, Maxwell, even for you.”
Max’s smile didn’t reach his eyes. “I’m sure I don’t know what you’re talking about. But I’m sorry to hear that on top of your newfound drug habit, that L-Corp’s servers were attacked. Seems like you’ve had a rotten streak of bad luck.”
“Yes. So it would seem.” Lena looked him over. “But I’m not the only one about to have a rotten streak of bad luck. Whoever hacked my servers is about to find themselves in a world of hurt.”
“What do you mean?” There. For the briefest of moments there was a crack in his armor.
Lena smiled evilly. “A new security protocol I invented. It’s like a slow moving cancer that will eventually wipe all data it comes in contact with. Very hard to detect. And the only way it can be stopped is if the hacker returns to the scene of the crime.”
“Interesting.” his smile didn’t reach his eyes yet again. “Sounds innovative, and highly unlikely.”
Lena simply shrugged and stood up. “Time will tell. Trojans, malware, ransomware, new and improved BleachBit. Whoever hacked me will soon regret it.” she walked towards the door and stopped. “I may not be my brother or my mother, Maxwell—” she pinned him with one last icy glare. “—but I’m still a Luthor. You would do well do remember that.”
* * *
“The trap is laid.” Lena held her head up proudly as she walked into her penthouse.
“You really think he fell for it?” said Jack.
“Without a doubt.” Lena took off her heels.
Kara brought out the last of the boxes from Lena’s room. “What did his face look like when he saw you?”
Lena smiled viciously. “Total and utter surprise.”
“Good.” nodded Kara. “Jack kinda explained what you guys were plannin’. I really hope he falls for it.”
Lena walked over and kissed her. “If he does this will all be over in a matter of days. The FBI will get an anonymous tip filled with possibly gigabites of information, and then he will be arrested and Edge will go down with him.”
“But what if in the off-chance it wasn’t Lord?” asked Sam.
“Then it wasn’t him.” said Jack simply. “Lord will launch an internal inquiry which could shake out the hacker. So either way we get our man. Or woman.”
“And if my theory is correct, that means that it will force Edge to make a move. Which means he’ll get sloppy.” said Lena.
Kara suddenly grew concerned. “Now wait a minute. If either of these dudes was behind what happened to you, don’t you think they would kick it up a notch to try and finish the job?”
Lena shook her head. “No. Lord is far too smart for something like that and Edge is all about image. My name, face, and pictures of my wreck have been all over the news. There’s no way in hell either of them would risk it. It’s the occasional perk of being a public figure. The constant attention is like a shield against other unwanted attention.”
Kara crossed her arms. “I still don’t like it.”
“I’m not exactly a hundred percent thrilled with the idea but, no offense to those detectives, but they are sorely out of their league with this one.” said Lena.
Kara pulled Lena into a hug. “Does this mean we get to go home now?”
Lena sighed happily. “Home. I like the way that sounds.”
* * *
It took a week for Kara to finally relax. Things had been running smooth at L-Corp and Lena was fully in her element with her research. They had a home security system installed and Lena made some adjustments, including a failsafe that would send an alert to their phones, albeit a blaring alarm of an alert that nearly gave Kara a heart attack when Lena tested it out. As more time passed they fell back into their comfortable rhythm. Kara would come home from work and—unless she was on a streak—Lena would stop working, and they would make dinner together. Before they knew it the town’s harvest festival was upon them. Kara had promised Lena the quintessential country fair experience as part of an early birthday present since Lena’s birthday was only a few days after.
It started with pumpkin pancakes and pumpkin spice coffee in bed. Then came a laughing Kara with matching red and blue flannel shirts. She took Lena to a pumpkin patch at Kurtz farm and they picked out their own pumpkins and then carved them. After finishing them Kara dragged Lena through the corn maze with a promise to come back later at night when it would be haunted and “hella more fun ‘cause they chase you with chain saws, Lena”. Lunch was a family affair downtown. Lemon shake ups, knee patches, roasted chicken dinners, homemade Amish ice cream, and buckets of kettle corn. Kara had entered herself in a pie-eating contest and won, and she and James won the cross-cut sawing competition. Lena and Esme got their faces painted and got balloon animals. Kara bought them all PVC pipe marshmallow guns that an Amish kid had built and was selling, and spent the next twenty minutes hunting each other in the park. They all went back to Kara’s for hot dogs and s’mores for dinner and a bonfire. When it was dark enough they all then went back to the farm for the haunted corn maze and hay ride—although Esme and Grandma Linda and decided to stay home and watch Moana instead. Lena, Kelly, Nia, Iris, and Lucy spent most of the maze clinging to each other and screaming while their significant others were cracking up laughing—except Brainy, he was more preoccupied with finding his way through the maze and trying to predict where the next costumed employee was going to jump out of, but he still had a great time. The hay ride was more relaxed as they sipped on hot chocolate as they went through the woods that had been lit up by torches and soft lights. It was all incredibly romantic as Lena snuggled close to Kara under the blanket. But Kara wasn’t done. Though Lena’s birthday was days away she couldn’t wait any longer.
“Can I open my eyes yet?” Lena called out from the living room.
“No!” Kara’s voice sounded far away but was growing closer. “Not yet! Just a sec!”
Lena could hear some movement in front of her and then Kara rushing off somewhere and running back.
“Okay!” she could hear the smile in Kara’s voice. “Open them.”
Lena’s heart stopped. Before her was a beautiful rocking chair that brought tears to her eyes as she smoothed her fingertips over the intricate carvings in the head rest.
“This looks just like—” she looked at Kara with shining eyes.
Kara shrugged sheepishly. “I may or may not have gotten an idea and taken a picture of the picture of you and your mom. Oh, and I know that the blanket isn’t exactly—”
Lena threw her arms around Kara and kissed her deeply.
“Happy birthday.” Kara said softly.
“Thank you.” Lena looked deeply into her eyes. “For today. For everything. I love you so much, Kara.”
“You’re worth it, Lena. I love you too.” Kara kissed her.
Their kisses quickly deepened. Kara trailed her hands down Lena’s back and palmed her ass. Lena smiled. Kara hooked her hands under her thighs and lifted her up. Lena wrapped her legs around Kara’s waist as Kara marched them into the bedroom. After an awkward moment filled with giggles, Lena was divested and untangled from her shirt—no thanks to her cast. They both quickly undressed and came crashing back together. Kara picked Lena up again and with one arm threw back the covers off of the bed and gently laid her down. Lena hooked a leg around her and moaned as their naked bodies pressed together. Kara licked into Lena’s mouth. Heat started to coil low in both of their hips. Kara started grinding herself into Lena and kissed her way down her neck.
“I can’t get enough of you.” her voice was husky and low.
“I know what you mean.” Lena panted.
Kara latched onto a nipple and slipped a hand lower through already slick folds, rubbing tight circles around Lena’s clit. Lena gasped at the sudden sensation. The sounds Lena was making only served to stoke the fire between her own legs.
“I know my birthday is still a few days away but—” Lena gasped as Kara picked up speed. “But—but I was wondering if we could—”
Kara stopped and looked at her. “We could what?”
“Remember what we talked about a couple of weeks ago?”
“Oh!” Kara’s eyes went wide.
“Only if you’re comfortable.”
“Actually…I’ve been thinking about it ever since you brought it up.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah. It’s really hot.”
Lena smiled and bit her lip. “Put on a tight white t-shirt and basketball shorts?”
“On it!” Kara suddenly jumped up from the bed.
“Wait! Is the heat on in your shop?”
“Yes ma’am. Oh, wait, do you need help getting dressed?”
“I think I can handle it.”
“Okay.” Kara quickly threw on the requested clothes and jogged out to her shop.
After turning up the heat just a little she started cranking out some pushups and pullups while she waited for Lena to come join her. She set up her bench so the backrest was up and she could do seated overhead presses. She didn’t put on much weight, just enough to get a pump and the desired effect for Lena. By the time Lena walked through the door her veins were popping. Lena dragged her eyes over Kara as she finished her sets. Kara loudly racked her weights. Lena was wearing a red blouse and a tight black pencil skirt with killer heels. Her hair was pulled back into a pony tail and she was wearing her signature red lip. This exact fantasy was something that she had discussed in detail with Kara previously, making sure that she would be okay with it. The outfit she was wearing was older so she didn’t really mind what was about to happen. Her hands were behind her back as she walked in.
“Ms. Luthor.” Kara stood up and put her hands on her hips, flexing her muscles. “What are you doing here?”
Lena casually looked around. “Oh, I just wanted to come see you in action, Supergirl. You know I love a woman with muscles.”
“You do, do you?” Kara flashed a cocky smirk.
She lifted her arm and flexed her bicep. “This doing anything for you?”
“Perhaps.” teased Lena.
She could see Kara’s hard nipples straining through her shirt. Kara reached down and pulled up her shirt to reveal her relaxed abs and dangerously low-slung shorts. Lena pouted.
“Surely you can do better than that.”
Kara pulled up her shirt and put the hem of it in her mouth to hold it up while putting both hands behind her head and flexing her abs hard, making her Adonis belt pop. Lena’s eyes were blown out as she reached out to touch, still keeping one hand behind her back. A pleased hum vibrated in her chest and she stepped back.
“Take your shirt off. I want to see some pull ups, Supergirl.”
Kara readily obliged. She then turned around and jumped up, grabbing the pull up bar on the top of the power rack and started slowly doing pull ups. Lena’s mouth watered as she watched the powerful muscles in her back flex. She glanced around Kara and looked at her in the mirror that was on the wall. It’s usual purpose was for Kara to be able to watch her own form when lifting heavy weights, but Lena had other ideas for it shortly after they got together. The slickness between her legs only grew at the thought. Kara stopped her pull ups and dropped to the ground, only breathing a little hard. Lena stepped right up to her until they were almost touching, her lips ghosting over Kara’s.
“I bet those muscles aren’t the only things that are hard for me.”
She snaked her left hand down Kara’s shorts, past wiry hair, and into copious wetness. Kara sighed as her hips jumped involuntarily. Lena arched a dangerous brow.
“Someone’s eager.” she licked a hot stripe over Kara’s neck. “If I didn’t know any better, Supergirl, I’d say you’re getting off on this.” she removed her hand and lewdly sucked on her own fingers. “Sit.”
Kara quickly grabbed a towel that she had set to the side and put it over the bench seat before doing as told. Lena put something on the ground before grabbing another towel and setting it on the floor in front of Kara.
“You know what? I’ve changed my mind.” she said suddenly. “Lay the bench flat.”
Kara did as she was told.
“Lay down.”
Kara laid down. Lena slinked along the bench and looked down at her.
“Behave and you’ll get a present.” she said sternly.
“What’s my present?” Kara flashed another cocky grin.
Lena bent over and kissed her teasingly. “Do as I say and you’ll see.” she stood back up. “I’m feeling a little greedy tonight.”
Kara accidentally broke character for a moment. “What does that mean?”
Lena laughed dangerously and started hiking up her skirt. Kara licked her lips as Lena bared herself. Lena carefully lifted her leg and straddled Kara, showing her the tantalizing slickness that had started to drip down her leg. Kara started running her rough warm hands up her pale thighs.
“There’s only one rule. Don’t come until I tell you, Supergirl.”
Kara nodded vigorously. Lena slowly lowered herself until Kara’s arms were holding part of her weight. She gasped as Kara wasted no time and licked a hot stripe through her. She was already so close and her legs started to shake.
“Fuck!” Lena cried as her hips jolted.
Kara had wanted to take her time but she could tell that Lena was close, so she stuck with her tried and true method. Lena braced a shaky hand on the power rack as Kara sucked on her clit. In a matter of seconds she was sent crashing over the edge. Her chest was heaving and her legs were shaking as Kara let up and gently licked at her arousal, loving the taste on her tongue. Lena managed to stand up but the fire inside had not yet been quenched, but she wanted to prolong the feeling.
“Put the bench back up.” she panted. “But don’t sit down yet.”
Kara put the bench back up and waited. Lena started trailing kisses down her neck and sucked at a nipple while toying with the other in her good hand. Kara let out a soft moan. Lena released the nipple and started licking her way down Kara abs until she got to her shorts. She looked up at Kara with blown eyes as she pulled down her shorts.
“Sit.”
Kara stepped out of her shorts and sat back on the bench, scooting her hips forward. Lena adjusted the towel under her knees and then put her hands on Kara’s and pushed them open. Kara inhaled sharply. Though it was still a new sensation for her, being on display like this and seeing how it affected Lena was, was turning her on in ways she never thought possible.
“Touch yourself.”
Kara slowly moved a hand down her body until she found her clit. Her hips twitched on contact. Lena noted the reaction.
“Do you like it when I watch you?”
Kara bit her lip and struggled a moment. She couldn’t bring herself to say it but nodded her head.
“I see.” Lena smiled wickedly. “Duly noted.” she kissed Kara’s inner thigh. “Keep touching yourself but don’t come.”
“Okay.” Kara breathed.
“I do want to see you come, but not yet.” Lena purred. “Will you come for me when I tell you to?”
“I’ll try.” Kara grunted. “I don’t-I don’t know if I can.”
Lena arched a brow. “Are you that turned on?”
“Yes. Fuck.” Kara’s head lolled back.
“If I didn’t know better, Supergirl, I’d say you have a slight exhibitionist/voyeuristic kink in you.” Lena kissed the other thigh. “Would you like that? Would you like it if I watched you come?”
“Yes.” Kara hissed.
“Mm.” Lena hummed as she kissed closer. “I want you to come, but not yet. Okay? Please try.”
“Okay.” a small whine escaped Kara.
She raced towards the edge but stopped just short of it. It was blowing her mind how turned on she was. After all of her body images issues Kara never thought that this would be something that she liked.
“Scoot closer.” Lena commanded.
Kara scooted her hips even closer to the edge of the seat.
“Look at me.”
Kara looked down at Lena as she delicately swiped her tongue through her.
“Holy shit!” Kara’s hips jumped and her clit twitched. “Fuck. I’m so close, baby.”
Lena hummed a pleased hum. “You are? It would be a shame then to not let you come.”
There was a wicked glint in her eye as she resumed her feather-light touch. She was going to get her fantasy dammit. After a few minutes, what felt like an eternity to Kara, Kara’s legs were shaking. She was desperately pinching her own nipples in an attempt to make herself come but Lena was expertly holding her back. Lena placed a kiss to her clit.
“Do you want to come?” she said breathily.
Kara nodded her head vigorously. “Yes. Please.”
“Do you want to show me how you come?”
“Fuck! God, yes!”
“Then show me.”
Kara locked gazes as Lena licked a hard stripe through her and then sucked hard on her clit, flicking her tongue across it.
“Oh my god!” gasped Kara.
Her brow furrowed and her jaw dropped. “I’m going to come for you, baby.”
Lena smoothed her good hand on Kara’s thigh. Kara’s entire body clenched as she practically came up off of the bench.
“Fuck!” she grunted.
Lena felt her clit pulse on her tongue and smiled. She eased up as Kara’s body twitched on the bench, her chest heaving with every breath.
“Holy shit!” Kara gasped.
Lena got up and kissed her. “I think we may have to revisit this again soon. You seem to like it quite a bit.”
“Yeah.” Kara panted. “I gotta tell ya, I did not see that one comin’.”
“But you liked it?”
“Hell yes!”
“Good.” Lena kissed her again.
She let Kara catch her breath as she retrieved the thing she had set aside earlier.
“Now, I know you’re going to be too sensitive so I took off the attachment. Is that okay?”
“Yes.” Kara lolled her head. “Very much okay.”
“Let me know if you want to put it back on.” Lena kissed her again.
“Will do. Gimme.”
Kara stood up on surprisingly shaky legs and slid the harness on. Lena leaned up against the power rack and started teasing herself while Kara caught her breath and her legs stopped shaking. Kara grabbed the bottle of lube that was also sitting on the floor and generously coated the toy. She laid the bench flat again and turned it so it was parallel with the mirror before coming back over to Lena.
“You ready?”
Lena nodded.
“Okay, but you need to be quiet so the neighbors don’t hear you. Can you do that?”
Lena smirked. “I like a challenge.” she stopped touching herself and pulled Kara in for a rough kiss. “Be rough.”
“You sure? I know we’ve talked about—”
Lena silenced her with a kiss. “I’m sure.”
Kara went back in for a kiss that was both rough and possessive, the toy getting trapped between their abdomens. Kara reached up and ripped open the blouse, sending buttons flying everywhere as Lena gasped. Kara broke their kiss and sunk her teeth into Lena’s neck, dragging down over the skin, leaving goosebumps in her wake. Lena moaned and slumped into the metal rack. Kara dragged her hands down and found the waist of her skirt and yanked hard. Lena whimpered pathetically as the material ripped and fell to the ground. Kara pulled her off of the rack and spun her around, grabbing her hips forcefully. Lena opened her neck as Kara sucked red marks into it, soothing them with her tongue. Her hands cupped Lena’s breast as she rolled stiff nipples between her fingers. She started moving her hips so the toy would slid over Lena’s ass.
“You want it?” Kara husked deeply in her ear.
Lena bit her lip and nodded.
“You want me to fuck you like you deserved to be fucked?”
“Yes.” Lena hissed.
“Bend over.” Kara whispered hotly in her ear.
Shivers went down Lena’s spine as she slowly bent over and put her hands on the bench, purposely pushing her ass into Kara’s hips. Kara stepped back slightly.
“Look at yourself.” she commanded.
Lena looked up at her reflection in the mirror. Her eyes were blown out to the point they looked black. Her hair was coming out of her pony tail and her lipstick was smeared all over. She looked positively wrecked. She watched as Kara carefully lined up the toy and teased her entrance. A pathetic whimper caught in her throat as she watched Kara’s abs flex as she slowly pushed the toy in. Her thrusts were shallow as she let Lena adjust. After a few strokes she was buried to the hilt. Lena reached back and stilled Kara’s hips a moment.
“Green, yellow, red. Remember?”
Kara nodded. “Gotcha.”
Lena locked eyes with her in the mirror and braced herself on the bench. “Green.”
Kara pulled out and slammed into her full force.
“Holy fuck!” Lena bit back a whine. “Green! Green, green, green!”
Kara gripped her hips tightly and started a punishing pace. Lena bit her lip to keep from screaming as the sound of slapping skin filled the shop. She had told Kara to go at it before but this position was new and Kara was deeper than she had ever been. Each thrust was threatening to knock the breath from her lungs. Lena gripped the bench tightly as her walls clenched around the toy. This was exactly what she wanted as she watched herself get fucked from behind. It didn’t take long for a sheen of sweat to coat both of their bodies as the heat in the shop started to become too much. Kara was loving every moment of it as she watched the pleasure on Lena’s face and could feel her own arousal start to build back up. She made a mental note to do this again but with the attachment.
Lena could feel the fire burning between her legs as her stomach clenched tightly. She ached to touch her clit but didn’t, Kara’s thrusting was proving to be enough. She could feel it building in her chest. Out of desperation to keep quiet she grabbed the towel off of the bench and bit down on it. She somehow managed to keep her head up and watched as Kara drove her careening off the edge. Wave after wave of pleasure coursed through her body until her legs gave out. Kara caught her and stopped.
“Yellow.” Lena panted as she spit out the towel. “Fuck. Yellow.”
“What do you need me to do?” Kara held her.
“Just…stay there a moment.” panted Lena as she caught her breath. “Holy fuck, Kara.”
Kara remained buried in her, not moving her hips.
“Okay.” Lena said after a minute. “You can pull out.”
Kara carefully pulled out and Lena stood up and turned around and kissed her. “You did perfect, Supergirl.”
“Really?”
“Really.” Lena kissed her again. “Just give me a minute to catch my breath and you can have your present.”
Kara chuckled warmly. They both gathered their clothes and wrapped themselves in the towels before giggling and scampering back into the house. They walked back into the bedroom and Kara took off the harness.
“Not done with that yet.” Lena stopped her.
“We’re not?”
Lena shook her head. “Nope. I told you I was feeling greedy tonight.”
Kara’s eyes bugged out of her head. “Again?”
Lena smiled wickedly. “Again. But first.”
She went over to the night stand and opened the drawer and pulled something out.
“A little present I got for the both of us.” she handed it to Kara.
It was another soft silicone base attachment but this time had a small bullet vibe inside the length of it. Lena pulled out a small remote.
“Is this my present?” asked Kara.
“Part of it. Put it on.” said Lena.
Kara put the attachment on and put the harness back on.
“Think you can do one more?” Lena asked.
“Actually, yeah, I think so.” said Kara. “You put on quite a show.”
Lena laughed and kissed her. “I give as good as I get.”
They started kissing again, slow and deep. Lena guided Kara back to the bed and pushed her down.
“Tell me when you want me to turn it on.” she said against Kara’s lips.
“Okay.”
Kara laid down as Lena climbed on top of her, sitting on her abdomen. She licked into Kara’s mouth as Kara’s warm hands rubbed up and down on her thighs. The pace was slower and more languid but the fire continued to rage between Lena’s legs. She sat up and put Kara’s hands on her breasts.
“Now for the rest of your present.”
She stood up on her knees a moment and back down to Kara’s hips. She reached between them and lined up the toy before slowly sinking down onto it, relishing in the stretch once more. Kara’s eyes went wide.
“Turn it on.”
“Now?”
“Now. But low.”
Lena pushed the button on the remote and a low hum filled the room. Kara’s head fell back into the pillows.
“Lordy, you’re gonna kill me, woman.” she groaned.
Lena smiled. She could feel the subtle vibration through the toy which was an added bonus. She rocked her hips forward once and immediately had all of Kara’s attention.
“You know…” she purred. “Now that we’re inside the neighbors can’t hear.”
An almost drunken smile played on Kara’s lips. Lena bent over and ghosted a kiss over Kara’s lips.
“And I know how much you like to hear me.”
Kara tried to sit up to kiss her but Lena planted a firm hand on her chest and pushed her back into the mattress.
“Yep. You’re gonna be the death of me for sure.”
Lena couldn’t help but laugh. She let go of Kara’s hands but they stayed in place as she slowly started to ride the toy. Kara watched with a hooded gaze, her eyes blown out. Every time Lena bottomed out she let out a high feminine whimper and Kara felt like she was high on every sound. Lena gradually increased the pace as she rode Kara, not holding back a single sound. Kara could feel her own pleasure building as the vibrating base pushed into her clit with every thrust of Lena’s hips. She bit her lip as she watched Lena ride her strap, almost overwhelming her senses. The ache in Lena’s clit finally became too much for her to ignore as she reached down and swiped messy circles over it.
“Are you close?” Kara panted.
Lena merely nodded and whimpered.
“Turn it up then. All the way. I can take it.”
Lena fumbled for a moment before turning the vibe up all the way. Kara’s abs clenched hard and she grunted at the powerful sensation. Lena continued to ride her.
“Come with me.” Lena whined.
“I’ll try.” panted Kara.
Lena threw her head back and leaned back on her good hand, temporarily leaving her clit. Kara moaned at the change of angle as it pushed the harness into her clit harder. It didn’t take long for her to catch up to Lena.
“Close. I’m close, baby.”
Lena righted herself and leaned over Kara, bracing herself on her elbows as she ground her clit into the harness. Kara kept one hand on her hip and slipped the other between them, finding Lena’s clit.
“Fuck!” Lena gasped.
She sped up her pace as heat raced up her spine and out the top of her head. Lena didn’t hold back as loud moans filled the room. Kara’s eyes practically rolled back in her head but she fought to keep her eyes on Lena.
“Kara—” Lena practically screamed.
That was enough for Kara.
“Fuck! Lena!” she grunted as Lena’s cries of pleasure rang in her ears.
Their simultaneous orgasms shot electricity up their spines and connected them through their hearts, prolonging the experience into something almost transcendental. It took a minute for both of them to come back down. Lena lifted herself off of the strap and collapsed beside Kara. Both of them were panting hard as their hearts hammered out of their chests.
“Holy shit.” gasped Kara.
She looked over at Lena. “Did you feel that?”
“Yeah. You feel it in your chest?”
“Yeah.”
They both laid there catching their breath for a moment.
“I’m starting to think this whole soulmate thing is real.” said Kara.
“Me too. I love you.”
“I love you.”
Chapter Text
Lena frowned as she reached behind her to where her human radiator should be. She buried herself further under the blankets. Since Kara ran hotter than her she tended to keep the house on the cooler side which meant while Kara was comfortable in a t-shirt and sweats, Lena was bundled in sweats and fuzzy socks and a blanket. Her eyes flew open in surprise as Kara somehow sneaked up on her and jumped in bed.
“Happy cast removal day!” Kara smiled as she snuggled up behind Lena and held her tight.
“Finally!” Lena groaned in relief. “No more itchy cast and I can take a proper shower.”
Kara kissed the side of her head. “You lucked out that six weeks was long enough. Could’ve been eight.”
“Don’t remind me.”
“You know what else happens this week? Specifically three days from now?”
Lena thought a moment. “Uh…”
Kara squeezed her in a bear hug. “I can’t believe I’ve kept this in for so long. Actually, I’m surprised any of the guys did.”
Lena turned around in her arms. “What are you talking about?”
Kara looked like she was going to burst. “Today is our last day of work on the house! It still has to be staged by Nia and we are waiting on a few pieces of furniture which are supposed to be here tomorrow, but you get your keys in three days and can move in!”
“Really?” Lena smiled. “That’s nearly a whole week ahead of schedule!”
She kissed Kara.
“What can I say, you got the best house-building team in all of Indiana, of course we are ahead of schedule.” Kara laughed. “Speaking of schedule, I’ll be by to pick you up at eleven thirty to take you to the doctor’s and then we can go out to lunch to celebrate your newfound cast-less freedom.”
“Sounds perfect.”
“Cool. I made breakfast.” Kara jumped out of bed and hauled a giggling Lena up.
Lena had no sooner poured herself a steaming cup of coffee when her phone rang. She looked at the screen.
“Andrea?”
She picked up her phone. “Andrea?”
“Lena! Are you near your computer?” rushed Andrea.
“No. Andrea, are you alright?”
Kara’s ears perked and she looked over at Lena.
“I need you to get to your computer. I just sent you an encrypted file you need to see.”
“Hold on.” Lena got up from the table and retrieved her laptop from the bedroom and sat it down on the kitchen table. “Did you find something?”
“You won’t believe what I’ve found. It took some serious digging and a couple of bribes and veiled threats but someone had posted on a message board on the dark web. It was basically asking if our ‘digital cancer’ was more than just fantasy.”
Lena pulled up her encrypted email and opened the file that Andrea sent her, Kara hovered over her shoulder. Lena put Andrea on speaker.
“Sounds like someone took the bait.” said Lena. “I’m looking at the file right now. Just give me a moment.”
Her eyes quickly scanned through and slowly widened.
“Andrea! How in the world did you get this?”
“That’s not important. Did you watch the video?”
Lena opened the video file. “Holy shit! This is the missing security footage.”
“Watch.”
She and Kara watched the camera that was trained on Lena’s reserved parking spot in L-Corp’s parking garage. A figure entered. He was wearing all black and his face was covered and he was carrying what looked like a tool bag. He stopped at Lena’s car and looked around for a moment before getting down on the ground and wiggling underneath by one of the tires. After a minute or two sparks began to fly.
“Holy fuck.” breathed Kara. “He’s cutting your struts.”
“Look at the time stamp.”
“That’s an hour after the hack happened. When I went to L-Corp that night.” said Lena. “Andrea, where did you get this?”
“It was buried in Lord’s private network.” said Andrea. “He tried to delete the file but since my virus found L-Corp metadata in the file it made a copy and sent it to me before he could. I also finally was able to trace the IP address. Fucker was clever and I nearly pulled my hair out but…it was Lord who hacked you.”
Lena closed the video and scanned back over the information that Andrea sent her.
“I can package it and make it look like a whistleblower leaked the information to the FBI.”
Lena couldn’t believe what she was reading. It was all there in black and white. Maxwell Lord had hacked L-Corp in order to lure her there to sabotage her car.
“But why?” Lena thought out loud. “It still doesn’t make any sense why Lord would do this. Attempted murder is not in his wheelhouse.”
“Because Lord Industries is insolvent.”
“What?”
“I had a friend of mine do some financial digging for me since it isn’t exactly my forte, and he got in through a back door in one of their accounting programs. Lord Industries was heavily leveraged against a Chinese tech firm that suddenly went belly-up a few months ago. So I went looking for it. Turns out, the firm doesn’t even exist and was a shell corporation that was being used to launder US foreign aid.”
“Uh…” Kara pointed at the phone. “I may not know anything about hacking but I know what that means.”
“It gets worse. Apparently Edge brokered a deal between Lord and this fictional company and then disappeared overnight, leaving Maxwell in the lurch and potentially facing numerous felony charges both nationally and internationally.”
“So basically Morgan walked away with literal billions.” said Lena.
“Yep. No one knows where he went. He just never showed up to work one day and all of his accounts had been drained. But there was a problem. Not only did he leave Lord in the lurch, but he apparently owes an insane amount of money to—get this—the Russian mafia.”
Kara rolled her eyes. “Because of course he does.”
"When you didn’t sell Walsh Technologies, his new promised laundering front fell through.”
“That still doesn’t explain why he would try to kill you.” Kara said to Lena.
“That’s what I thought. For weeks it was driving me nuts. So I followed the money. The amount that was in his personal accounts was by no means enough to cover his debt and wasn’t the billions that he stole from Lord.”
“So where the hell did it all go?” said Lena.
“Let’s just say Russians are very persuasive. I found some emails between Edge and some guy named Alexi Volkov where Morgan was basically begging for his life. I think what happened was they found him and in order to save his own hide he gave them all the money he stole from Lord. So now he’s broke and he has Lord chasing after him. Lena, I found surveillance footage on Lord’s servers. He had been following you since the night at the gala. I think Lord knew something was up and when Edge vanished he knew he had been had. Edge would have also been extremely upset because, hello, Russians. So I think that Lord was following you because he thought that Edge might try something to get to you. If he ever showed his face then Lord would be able to track and trace him and get his own revenge.”
Lena just sat in shock.
“So you’re saying that you think that the guy in the security footage is Edge?” said Kara.
“Yes.” replied Andrea. “I think he is still in the States somewhere, laying low, and hell-bent on destroying the one person who he thinks destroyed his life.”
“Me.” Lena’s jaw clenched.
“So what do we do? Do we send all of this to the FBI? The cops? CIA? Who?” Kara’s voice was rising. “I want this bastard caught! If that fucker comes anywhere near Lena I’ll kill him.”
“Some of this will have to be sent to Detectives Decker and Morningstar.” said Lena. “The rest will have to be packaged like Andrea said. Whistleblower or even anonymous tips. Something tells me that Edge is already on their radar as well as several other government agencies.”
“So what, we just sit back and wait for the feds to get him?” Kara gripped the back of Lena’s chair.
“There’s nothing more we can do.” said Lena.
“I’ve already started getting things together.” said Andrea.
* * *
Kara had to keep reminding herself to relax her shoulders and unclench her jaw all morning. She had tried to get out of going to work but Lena insisted that she go. It was maddening that there was nothing that she could do to catch Edge. There was nothing she could do to keep Lena safe. It was a small comfort knowing that they at least had a security system installed in the house.
“Dude, you okay?” said Barry.
“Fine.” Kara said tersely.
“Uh, you don’t sound fine.”
Kara sighed as they moved the last bookcase into place. “I can’t really talk about it too much. But we found out who caused Lena’s accident and it’s really long and really complicated and fuckin’ tangled and some shit you’d see in a damn movie and there’s nothing I can do about it.”
“O-kay.” Barry looked her over. “Anything I can do to help?”
“No. Unless you can suddenly grant wishes.”
“Wish I could. Can the cops do anything?”
Kara shrugged. “Maybe. I really don’t know.” she sighed loudly. “I’m just fuckin’ scared, Barry. As far as we know the dude is still out there and is tryin’ to get to Lena. Like, it’s bad enough that her crazy-ass mother wanted to lock her up in their mansion as some sort of safe house.”
Barry’s eyebrows were up to his hairline. “Shit.”
“Yeah. And, uh…” Kara scratched at her undercut. “I’m actually kinda not wantin’ Lena to move in here. Or at least, not without me. I don’t like the idea of her bein’ by herself. Even with a state of the art security system. Something could still happen. And I just couldn’t live with myself if it did.”
“Have you guys talked about movin’ in together? I mean, like, actually movin’ in. Not whatever you got goin’ on now.”
“We did. And basically it would seem the choice is up to me.” Kara leaned on the bookcase. “Even though I told her when I pictured us together I didn’t care where we ended up, she didn’t want to take me away from my shop.”
Barry bit his tongue as he remembered Lena’s birthday party and a certain conversation he had with her, Brainy, and J’onn.
“So what you gonna do?”
“I think I’m gonna straddle two worlds for a bit.” said Kara. “Essentially move in with Lena, but keep my place and my shop for a bit until I can figure out something else.”
Barry nodded. “Cool. Hey, you know that new slab that was poured a week ago?”
“Yeah?”
“Anyone ever find out what that was for?”
“Lena and Brainy both say it’s for extra lab workspace stuff and storage. But I guess we aren’t doin’ it. Stucky’s is. Which makes sense. Those guys throw stuff together just as fast as the Amish.”
Barry laughed. “Ain’t Tim Stucky ex-Amish?”
“Oh yeah. I forgot.” Kara laughed. “Just goes to show you can take yourself out of the Amish but can’t take the Amish out of you.”
* * *
Lena flexed and rolled her wrist around carefully, it was still sore and very stiff.
“How’s it feelin’?” asked Kara as she crawled into bed.
“It’s the strangest feeling not having the weight of the cast anymore.” said Lena. “But other than that it’s okay. A little bit more sore than it was at lunch but then again I’ve already started doing those rehab exercises you found.”
“Well don’t over-do it. Don’t want to add an over-use injury on top of a recently healed broken bone. Recipe for ouch.”
Lena stopped her exercises and snuggled close as Kara turned off the bedside lamp.
“So I talked with Barry today about the whole moving in thing.” Kara said in the dark.
“Yeah?”
“Yep. And I kinda had this idea. Feel free to veto it, but, what if I mostly move in? I still move to your house but I keep my place so that I have my shop. Take my time that way?”
“First of all, I’m not going to veto that. Second, if that’s what you want to do then I’m one hundred percent in support of it. But you know, at that point it will be our place. Not mine.”
That gave Kara pause.
“Huh. I never even thought about that.”
“Are you okay with it?”
“I mean, I guess I am? I meant what I said, Lena. I don’t care where we end up as long as I’m with you. Although I will say that if we try to permanently move away somewhere else we will have to face holy hellfire from the family…probably…maybe…most likely.”
Lena chuckled. “I just had a new house built. I don’t know about you but I don’t plan on just uprooting the moment it’s done to go somewhere else. A vacation home? Sure. But not home, home.”
Kara nuzzled into her neck and kissed it. “You know…if you hang on to your penthouse not only will we never have to worry about getting’ a hotel in the city—for whatever reason—but it could be our secret getaway.”
“Mm.” Lena hummed as Kara kept kissing her. “And what exactly would we be getting away from?”
Kara’s lips stilled a moment. “Kids?” she said quietly.
Lena turned around in her arms and came face to face with her. “Kids?”
“Yeah. I know we haven’t talked at length about it, but I would like a kid or two.”
Lena laced her fingers with Kara’s. “I have my doubts in myself as far as parenting skills. I didn’t exactly have the greatest of role models growing up.”
“I know. But you know what? I’m gonna be right there with you. And I’ve said it before and I’ll say it as long as it takes for it to finally stick here—” Kara tapped Lena’s forehead, “—and here.” she tapped her heart. “You are not like your family Lena. The Luthor name doesn’t deserve you.”
She kissed her. “I know you’ll be a great mom.”
Lena was silent a moment. “I really did like it when Lex and I were younger and he was nice to me. When he was actually a brother. And, who knows. Maybe with the Danvers clan and assorted extended family around, maybe things will turn out better for our kids.”
“Without a doubt.” agreed Kara. “Our kids will quite literally be raised by a village.”
They both chuckled.
“Okay, so it’s settled. We’re going to at least have one kid.”
Lena nodded in agreement.
“Cool. Easy part over.”
“That was the easy part?”
“Kinda. At least I think so. Um, okay, so while I’ve always known I wanted kids I was just never, um, keen on the idea of having them.”
“Ah.”
“Yeah. I’m totally up for doing the egg retrieval stuff and in vitro but I just don’t think I could handle bein’ pregnant. Psychologically. I mean.” Kara sighed heavily. “But, like, I will if, like, for some reason whoever I ended up with wasn’t able to but I was. I don’t know. I just don’t want to be the pregnant one. I mean, there’s always a chance that I could change my mind. But—”
Lena put a finger to her lips to stop the rambling. “It’s okay. I’m not going to lie, the thought of being pregnant is both exciting and utterly terrifying. And we don’t have to have all of this conversation tonight. We have plenty of time to discuss this. But I’m not going to force you to do anything. Okay?”
Kara nodded. “Okay.”
“Good. Because unlike traditional couples we have to plan this shit out anyways.”
Lena couldn’t see it but Kara suddenly turned deep red.
“Yeah. I’ve actually had this…dream? Fantasy? Make-believe situation? Whatever.” Kara cleared her throat. “So you know that episode of the L-Word where they talk about what they would do if they—you know--had a dick for a day?”
“Yeah…?”
“Well I’ve always thought that I would go to a sperm bank and fill every damn sample cup I could in that time span so that I could have biological kids with my future wife.”
Lena sighed. “That would make things so much easier.”
“Right? But I totally want ma’ lady parts back after the twenty-four hours. I would spend probably the first hour freakin’ the fuck out that it would never go back. I actually had a nightmare like that a few years ago. Back when I was strugglin’ with my identity. Talk about a mind fuck.”
Lena kissed her. “Life is weird. And humans are fascinating creatures.”
“Yes it is and yes we are.”
* * *
Kara and Lena both jolted awake as both of their phones blared an alarm. Kara nearly fell out of bed trying to silence them. Her heart was pounding out of her chest and her hands were shaking.
The security failsafe had been tripped.
Kara flipped over in bed towards Lena and shoved her phone in her hands. They had rehearsed this scenario multiple times.
“Get in the closet now! And don’t come out until I tell you it’s okay.” she whispered harshly. “Call 911!”
Lena stumbled out of bed in the darkness, her entire body was shaking with fear and suddenly felt ice-cold. She managed to somewhat quietly get into the closet. Her hands shook violently as she dialed 911.
Kara quickly pulled her 9mm out of the drawer along with a small but incredibly powerful LED flashlight. She turned off the safety and crept towards the bedroom door. There was no way in hell that it was any of their family or friends. Every single one of them knew the situation and knew that they had specific nighttime “protocol” that they had to adhere to. If neither Kara nor Lena were answering their phones the first thing anyone was to do was to come to the house and knock loudly and ring the doorbell. Absolutely no one was supposed to try to use their house keys to get in at night. Holding her breath she listened for any sounds of an intruder. The back door creaked loudly and Kara thanked her past self for never fixing it. She carefully turned the doorknob and opened the door enough so she had a clear view of the kitchen leading to the living room, exactly where the intruder would have to walk through to get anywhere else in the house.
“911 what’s your emergency?”
“Someone’s trying to break into our house.” Lena whispered. “They cut our home alarm system.”
“Okay, ma’am, is there anyone in the house? Are you alone?”
“No. My girlfriend is here too. Please send the cops now! I think they may be armed.”
“Are you and your girlfriend in a safe place?”
“I’m in the closet. My girlfriend is checking the house. She has her gun.”
“Okay, ma’am, I’m going to need you to keep calm. I’m going to switch over to the other line to dispatch officers to your location. Don’t hang up.”
Tears streamed down Lena’s face as she held her knees tightly to her chest. Her teeth were chattering from how cold her body had become because of the terror pouring through her veins like ice.
Kara saw movement.
“Ma’am? Are you still there?”
“Yes.”
“Okay. I have officers heading your way. Alright? Stay with me on the phone until they get there.”
"Okay.”
Kara took a steadying breath and flashed the intruder with the blinding LED light.
“Is your girlfriend still there?”
“Yes. But I don’t know where—”
Lena jumped so hard she dropped her phone as several gunshots rang out, shattering the silence of the night. She fumbled for the phone, she could hear the 911 operator calling out to her.
“Ma’am? Ma’am?”
“Oh my god! Those were gunshots!”
“Ma’am—”
“LENA!” Kara screamed.
Lena fell practically face-first out of the closet as she staggered on legs that didn’t want to cooperate. The flashlight had fallen to the ground and was blinding her. She blindly felt for the light switch and turned on the lights.
“OH MY GOD, KARA!”
Kara was slumped against the wall. Blood trickled down her somewhat useless left arm. Her face was contorted with pain as she pressed both of her hands over a wound on her inner thigh that was pouring blood.
“Ma’am!”
Lena fell to her knees beside her. Somehow she managed to put the operator on speakerphone.
“She’s been shot! My girlfriend’s been shot! Send a fucking ambulance!” yelled Lena.
“Send two!” Kara grunted. “I shot the guy that broke in.”
“Hurry! She’s bleeding out!” Lena was hysterical. “Kara, Kara! What can I do?”
Kara was breathing hard. “First, I need you to unlock the front door and turn on the outside lights. Okay?”
Lena stumbled to her feet and unlocked the door and threw it open despite the freezing November night and turned on every light they had. She rushed back to Kara.
“Good. Okay. I need you to get in my medical bag in the closet. Inside the front left pocket there’s a tourniquet.”
Lena raced to the closet. After a few seconds that felt like an eternity she returned with the tourniquet.
“See that bump? I need you to put that over my vein. It’s a slow bleed so I know it’s not my femoral. So that’s good. Put it a couple inches higher than the wound. I’ll try to lift my leg.”
Lena readied the tourniquet.
“One, two, three!”
Kara screamed in pain as she managed to lift her leg high enough for Lena to slip the tourniquet underneath. Kara was shaking badly.
“Now feed the end through there and crank it until I tell you to stop.” she panted.
Lena set up the tourniquet and started cranking. Kara’s neck strained under the pain.
“Okay!” she gasped.
Lena locked it in place and Kara slowly removed her hands. The blood had slowed almost to a stop.
“Good! You did good!” she panted.
Kara lifted her shaky arms and held onto Lena. Off in the distance sirens could be heard. Lena was sobbing.
“Baby. Baby, listen to me.” Kara’s eyes were swimming. “I’m going to pass out soon. Okay? I will be fine. The ambulance will be here any minute. I need you to know that.”
“No! Please! Kara!” Lena sobbed as she held onto Kara’s bloody hands with her own bloody hands.
“It’s okay.” Kara was fading fast. “I’ll be okay. Don’t…worry…I…love…”
Kara went limp and slumped over. Her skin was deathly pale.
“No, no, no, no! NO! KARA!” Lena screamed.
She pulled the heavy, unconscious body of Kara over into her lap and cradled her.
“Kara! Come back! You can’t leave me!”
Lena’s vision tunneled and all she could see was Kara’s face. The sirens drew closer. Hot tears streamed down Lena’s face and landed on Kara’s. Lena put her hand over Kara’s chest, feeling her breath and heart.
“Please come back.” sobs wracked Lena’s body. “Please. I love you, Kara. Please. I can’t do this without you.”
Bright flashing red, blue, white, and yellow lights flooded the neighborhood. Everything sounded muffled to Lena as her world crumbled. She was only vaguely aware of the armed officers entering the house and checking that the scene was safe. Her brain barely registered something about the intruder having been shot and that it was safe for medical personnel. The next thing she knew there was a paramedic in her face. She had met him twice before and recognized him and his partner but couldn’t remember their names for the life of her.
“Lena? Are you hurt?” he asked.
Lena merely shook her head.
“Okay. I’m going to need you to let Kara go. Okay? I need to help her.”
Lena numbly complied and moved out of the way. An officer helped her stand up and caught her as her legs gave out from the emotional and psychological weight. The male medic was quickly cutting at Kara’s clothes to find all of her wounds while the female medic rushed over to the intruder to render medical aid. From what Lena could see Kara only had the gunshot wound to her thigh and her left deltoid. Lena nearly fainted when she noticed two holes in the wall where Kara had been standing. A few firefighters came inside to help since they were all EMT-Basics. Some helped bandage Kara’s wounds while the others helped the other medic. Kara got two large-bore IV’s placed.
“Get the defib!” Lena heard the female medic call out.
Lena looked over to see a firefighter performing CPR while the medic placed an interosseous IV in the intruder’s leg. The couch was in the way and she couldn’t see the intruder’s face. She wanted to go look but her legs wouldn’t let her. Her body was unconsciously rooted to the spot closest to Kara with no intention of leaving.
“Ma’am?” the officer tried to get her attention. “Ma’am?”
Lena could hardly hear him. Suddenly, another familiar face was in front of her.
“Lena? Lena? Can you hear me?”
“James?” Lena croaked.
“Are you hurt?”
“No.”
“Good. Can we get you cleaned up? You’re freezing.”
“Kara…”
At that moment Kara was being loaded onto the cot. Another ambulance pulled into the driveway.
“She’s going to be okay. They’re going to take good care of her. But I need to take care of you for her. Okay?”
“Okay.”
“Let’s get you cleaned up and get some warm clothes on.” James looked at the officer. “Can we do that? The bedroom is just in there.”
“Go ahead. But I’m going to need a statement from her when you’re done.” said the officer.
Lena was on autopilot as James led her into the master bathroom and washed off her hands. There was blood all over her shirt and pants.
“Do you have sweats or something you can change into?” he looked her in the eye to get her attention.
“Yes.” she said softly.
She padded out of the bathroom and went to the dresser and opened the drawer. She started sobbing again as the first thing she saw was Kara’s college softball hoodie with “Danvers” and “11” on the back. She hugged the clothing to her chest. James came over and hugged her.
“She’ll be alright.”
“I need to call Eliza.” Lena said into his chest. “And Alex. Grandma—”
“I’ll call them.” James assured. “I need you to focus on getting changed. Okay? I’ll call Barry and get him to take you to the hospital.”
Lena did as she was told and grabbed a few more things and went into the bathroom to change. James pulled out his phone and called Barry first while he retrieved Lena’s phone from the living room. Mark and Chelsea had left with Kara already while the other medics and firefighters continued CPR on the man that Kara shot. A flash of anger and disgust went through James. He didn’t know if he wanted the man dead or if he should survive and spend life in prison.
By the time Lena had cleaned herself up James had already called Alex and Eliza, with Eliza telling him to not call Grandma Linda but that she would. While Lena gave her statement to the officers on scene, James got her a water bottle from the firetruck. Lena did her best to let her CEO side take over, hoping that it would cancel out some of the adrenaline, but it wasn’t working so well. She would get out a few sentences and then start crying again. James did his best to console her. It took about ten minutes to get through it all and by the time she finished Barry showed up in his truck. He immediately jogged over with Iris in tow and pulled Lena into a hug.
“She’ll be okay.” he held her tight. “Mark and Chelsea know what they’re doing. They’ll get her to Argo city and the trauma surgeon will have her fixed in no time.”
“This is all my fault.” Lena sobbed.
“No it’s not.” said Iris firmly. “You did nothing wrong, Lena.”
Lena just sobbed.
“Let’s get in the truck.” said Barry. “I’ll drive us to the hospital. I’m sure Alex and everyone will meet us there.”
Lena nodded quietly and reluctantly let Barry go. Iris pulled her in close as the three of them walked to the truck.
Kara had to be okay. She just had to.
I love you, Kara. And I don’t want to go through the rest of this life without you. Please be okay. You have to be okay. You have to…
Chapter Text
The sun shone brightly as warm wind whipped through her hair. National City looked beautiful from up so high. The buildings, the people, the water…
Water?
Wait…
Am I flying?!
She was most definitely flying. And National City was below her. Well…a city that looked identical but was somehow on the West Coast?
Was that L-Corp?!?!?!?
Kara tried to look back but couldn’t. She suddenly realized that while she might be flying, she wasn’t the one in control. There was another strange feeling as well. For some reason the sun felt like it was invigorating her to the point that she felt like a super-charged battery. She felt invincible.
The scene suddenly changed. She didn’t recognize where she was and there was a red robotic man in front of her. An overwhelming sense of anger pitted itself in her stomach. The man stepped towards her. Heat built up behind her eyes until it shot out at the robot.
Are those lasers…from my EYES!?
The anger built up to an uncontrollable rage and she felt herself roar.
The scene suddenly changed again and she was walking into Lena’s office.
“You could have fooled me.”
Kara felt her heart flutter and her face instantly flush. Lena was so pretty.
Another jump.
She was flying with blinding speed through the city at night, a woman’s scream in her ears. In a blink she caught Lena falling from her office balcony. Her heart was hammering just as hard as Lena’s in her ear.
Wait…I can hear her heartbeat?
She took a deep breath and physically blew back two goons before gently depositing Lena on the balcony.
Jump.
Kara braced herself as she dove headfirst into deep water.
Holy shit! Was that a torpedo?
She stopped the projectile and shoved it back into the sub. She felt a tremendous surge of strength and pushed up with all her might. She gasped and took a deep breath as she surfaced with the entire military submarine on her shoulders as hundreds looked on in amazement.
Another jump.
Is that mom?!
Another jump.
She was in the fight of her life with some woman who was all in black and flying just as fast as her and was just as strong. Kara slammed impossibly hard into the street below.
Another jump.
She was looking at the mirror image of herself, but different. Her hair was longer and she wasn’t near as muscular and…was that a Russian accent?
Another jump.
Holy fuck! Is that Lex Luthor?
Lex was snarling at her from inside some sort of exosuit as they were flying high in the sky.
Another jump.
Her heart felt like it was shattering as she looked at Lena’s tearful eyes. She couldn’t tell what the words were that were coming out of her mouth but it felt like her world was ending as she longed for Lena to just…say something, anything.
Another jump.
She was shaking hands with Lena in her lab and was filled with such hope, such promise. Every fiber of her being was screaming at her to pull Lena into a hug and kiss her deeply.
Another jump.
Pure terror flooded through her veins as she looked out at the alien world of darkness around her. Ghastly flying figures that reminded her of dementors flew straight for her and she felt like all of the light in her life was drained from her.
Another jump.
She was still on the alien world but there was a man with her who looked exactly like her father.
Dad?
A light nearly as bright as the sun exploded in the sky and she felt her weary bones rejuvenate as she flew towards it, her heart full of hope and longing.
Another jump.
A tearful Lena wrapped her in a hug and she felt like she never wanted to let go again as the urge to kiss her bubbled up once more. But she didn’t.
The jumps suddenly stopped as millions of moments—memories?—flashed in front of her and they were all of Lena. Kara could feel her emotions going in every direction at once. Just as soon as they started, they stopped. She was suddenly face to face with some other version of herself. She was just as tall, hair was a little longer and no undercut, muscular but not near as bulky. The eyes were the same though. She was also wearing some sort of blue body suit with an “S” on her chest, red boots, and a red cape.
Am I some sort of superhero?
“Hi.” the other Kara smiled genuinely at her.
“Hi?” Kara was shocked she could actually speak. “Who are you?”
“You.” the other Kara laughed softly. “Well, sort of.”
“What do you mean?” Kara looked around. “Where are we?”
Other Kara shrugged. “I’m not exactly sure. My best guess is that somehow our universes are overlapping in the dream realm.” her eyes suddenly widened with enthusiasm. “I could ask Nia!”
“You have a Nia too?” Kara blinked.
Other Kara laughed again. “Yeah. Something tells me that we both have the same people in our lives, just maybe different versions.”
“Alex? Kelly? Esme? James?”
“Yep.”
“Eliza? Winn? Barry? Brainy?”
Other Kara belly laughed. “Yes. And yes.”
“Does that mean the Lena I saw is your Lena?”
Other Kara looked thoughtfully at her. “What did you see?”
Kara shrugged. “I don’t know. Everything? Meeting at the office all the way through to some wedding hug.”
Other Kara smiled wistfully. “Yeah, that’s her.”
Kara nodded.
“What’s your Lena like?” Other Kara asked.
Kara smiled widely. “She’s amazing. A lot like yours. Incredibly smart, brilliant, beautiful, a huge heart that cares for those that she loves.”
Other Kara smiled widely as well.
“I love her so much.” said Kara.
“I bet.”
“I’m gonna to marry her, actually.”
Other Kara’s face fell. “Are you two…together?”
Kara looked her over. “Yeah. Are you alright?”
Tears filled Other Kara’s eyes. “Yeah. Uh, yeah.” she cleared her throat. “Um, if you don’t mind me asking…what’s it like to kiss her?”
Kara sighed happily. “It’s like…heaven. I know it’s cliché, but it’s true. Her lips are so soft and even though I’m already home, it feels like I’m comin’ home every time I kiss her.” she shook her head. “I’ve never loved someone so much in my entire life. She was definitely worth the wait.”
“How did it happen?”
Kara just shrugged. “Fate, I guess. She ended up in my town on a whim and we just became fast friends. But, hindsight, we both knew it was somethin’ deeper right away.”
Other Kara nodded.
“Are you not with your Lena?” asked Kara.
“Not like you are.” Other Kara smiled sadly. “Can you do me a favor?”
“Sure.”
“Just…don’t ever let her go. Okay? Hold on to her and never let go. And make sure that she knows every single day how much you love her.” Other Kara smiled.
“Okay.” Kara nodded. “But only if you do something for me. Tell your Lena how you feel. I might not have lived your life, but those memories I saw, those feelings? I know those are real and I know that she feels the same about you. She gets the same look in her eye that my Lena does. Just…go for it.”
Other Kara smiled. “I think I will.”
* * *
Lena stared blankly ahead as Eliza held one hand and Grandma Linda held the other. The surgery waiting room was eerily quiet—though it being four in the morning might have had something to do with it. All of their family and friends were waiting for the surgeon to come out and give and update on Kara who had been in surgery for an hour. Esme was sound asleep on Alex’s lap and everyone else was struggling to stay awake despite the anxiety.
She was in shock. There was no other way to describe it. Someone had broken into the house with a weapon at the ready. Had she not created the failsafe…
Lena had refused to let her mind go any farther with that thought. Emptying her head of any thoughts was the only way she was going to get through this until she had confirmation that Kara was still alive. It was the only thing that mattered: that Kara lived.
The door to the waiting room opened and Lena nearly vaulted out of her seat.
“How is she? Is she okay?” her breath rushed out of her lungs.
“Miss Danvers is doing well.” replied the surgeon calmly. “She had lost quite a bit of blood so we had to give her several transfusions but her hemoglobin levels are normal now. Her left shoulder sustained only moderate damage to the muscle. It will take some time and therapy but she should have full use back in a couple of weeks. Her leg had sustained the most critical damage. The bullet had gone through and through but had severely torn her greater saphenous vein. We were able to repair it.” she pointedly looked at Lena. “Thanks to the tourniquet you applied so quickly, you saved her life. I expect Miss Danvers to make a full recovery.”
Lena’s legs gave out as relief flooded through her body. Barry thankfully caught her. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
“Thank you.” Eliza wept. “How soon can we see my daughter?”
“She’s still in recovery but her nurse will let you know when she is being moved to her room. I’m having her admitted to the ICU.” said the surgeon.
Everyone thanked the surgeon as she left. Lena hugged Eliza close.
“I’m so sorry for everything. It’s my fault she’s in here.” she cried.
Eliza shook her head. “Don’t do that. This isn’t your fault. I wouldn’t expect anything less from my daughter.” she pulled back and looked Lena in the eye. “I don’t blame you, Lena. There are things in this life that are beyond our control. I’m just relieved that this night hadn’t gone as that man had planned.”
“I’m so sorry.” was all Lena was able to sob out.
Eliza pulled her in for another hug and was joined by a crying Alex and Grandma Linda.
“I know my sister.” Alex sniffed. “She wouldn’t have reacted in any other way tonight. I’ve always told her that her knight in shining armor complex would get her into trouble one day.” she managed a small smile. “Although I thought that what happened with Mike was the worst of it. Leave it to Kara to one-up herself.”
A nurse came into the room.
“Danvers family?”
“Yes.” said Grandma Linda.
“Miss Danvers is now in room 214 if you would like to see her.”
* * *
Lena picked at her nails as she waited in the ICU visitor’s room. She had insisted that everyone else go back first to see Kara so that they could get home and get some sleep. Eliza and Grandma finally came back to give her some privacy with Kara. Both had insisted on staying until she woke up. Lena was on autopilot as she walked towards the room. It was so surreal being back in the place where she had so recently been herself. The room was the same and it sent shivers down her spine as she thought about how the same person responsible for that night was also behind this terrible night. She sat quietly in the chair beside the bed and took Kara’s warm hand in her own. Kara looked like she was sleeping peacefully. Lena glanced up at the vitals monitor. Though she wasn’t as versed as Kara, she knew enough to know that what she was looking at was good. Tears welled up in Lena’s eyes and trickled down her cheek.
“Hey, Kara, it’s me.” she sniffed and wiped her eyes. “I don’t…I don’t know what to say.” she bit her lip. “Except that I’m sorry, darling. I’m so, so sorry. I should have—I should have just…” she clenched her jaw as hot tears flowed. “I should have just let you go after my wreck. After we found out that someone was trying to kill me. It was selfish of me to think that we would be safe. That you would be safe. That I could keep you safe. I love you, Kara. So much. But—” the words caught in her throat, “—but I can’t risk losing you. And I think—I think that maybe, until this is resolved, I should move back to the city. I know it will hurt to be apart but…but if it means keeping you alive. Keeping you safe…” Lena couldn’t finish as the guilt and hurt overwhelmed her and silent sobs shook her body.
Kara’s hand weakly squeezed hers.
“You’re not going anywhere.” Kara mumbled groggily.
Lena’s head snapped up. The world seemed to stop for a blessed eternity as she locked gazes with tired, but firm, blue eyes.
“I almost got you killed.” Lena whispered.
“I don’t blame you for this.” Kara rasped. “I would do it all over again if it meant keeping you safe, Lena. It was my choice to do what I did. I don’t regret it.”
Kara released her hand for a moment and fumbled for her bed controls to put the head up more. She winced as the stitches in her arm and leg pulled. She gritted her teeth and scooted to the side and patted the bed next to her. Lena carefully climbed up and snuggled next to her. Kara laced their fingers and kissed the back of her hand.
“I love you, Lena. And I’m not going anywhere.” she kissed it again. “We’re in this together. I’m not going to abandon you just because things are hard.”
Lena shook her head. “This isn’t just some fight over nothing, Kara. You could have died. Things aren’t just hard, they’re fucking deadly.”
“You don’t think I realize that?” said Kara gently. “Lena, you were fucking drugged and your car was tampered with.”
“Par for the course for a Luthor.” Lena rolled her eyes.
“I’m serious, Lena.” Kara’s voice was a little firmer. “I am not going’ anywhere and I’m not gonna to let you run away from this. From us.” she managed a small smirk. “Like it or not you’re stuck with me for life, Luthor. Can’t get rid of a Danvers that easily. We might not exactly be bulletproof but we’re still pretty tough.”
She leaned over and kissed Lena. “I love you, Lena. Luthor and all.”
They touched foreheads as Lena rubbed her thumb on Kara’s hand. Kara suddenly chuckled.
“What?” said Lena.
“I literally took a bullet for you.” Kara snorted a laugh. “But unlike Bruno Mars, I draw the line at a grenade. Getting shot hurts enough as is.”
Lena couldn’t help but smile and snuggled closer. “I’m surprised you even know who he is.”
“Can’t stand the guy but when that song first came out the local pop station wouldn’t stop playing it and I felt like everywhere I went I heard it.” Kara pretended to gag. “So annoying. I’m sure he has some good stuff but shit’s already tainted for me.”
Lena wrapped her arm around Kara’s waist. “Noted. No Bruno Mars for you.”
They lay in comfortable silence for a few minutes, feeling sleep tug at their eyes.
“I should go get your mom and grandma.” Lena’s voice was ragged with exhaustion.
“’kay.” Kara sighed.
Lena gave her another kiss before going to get them. The nurse took advantage of the brief break in visitors and brought Kara her pain medicine. By the time Lena, Eliza, and Grandma came back Kara was able to hug them with less wincing. After talking for a little bit Kara finally convinced them to go home and get some sleep. Lena, however, wasn’t going anywhere and Kara couldn’t blame her since she had done the exact same thing. Once Eliza and Grandma were gone Kara pulled back her blankets and Lena climbed into bed with her. Kara smiled as Lena clung to her hospital gown and soon enough she heard Lena’s breathing quickly even out. The sun was just starting to rise over the horizon and she sighed contentedly. Her body hurt but Lena was alive and she couldn’t be more grateful to the universe. The conversation she had with her alternate self in her dream played through her mind as she drifted off to sleep. She silently promised to tell Lena that she loved her every day.
* * *
“Ow, ow, ow, ow.” Kara winced as she pulled on her hoodie.
“Do you need help?” Lena called from the kitchen.
“No. I’m good.” Kara hollered back. “Gave up on the bra. Sweatshirt was easier.”
“Okay. Lunch is almost ready.”
“What time were the detectives supposed to be here?”
“They were supposed to be here twenty minutes ago.”
Kara eased herself off of the bed. She forced herself to walk as normal as possible so as to not create any muscle imbalances while she continued to heal. Glancing at the patched and painted—courtesy of Barry—bullet holes in the living room wall, she made her way into the kitchen. Lena was at the stove making grilled cheese sandwiches while soup simmered. Kara inhaled deeply through her nose and smiled.
“Mm. Smells good.” she hummed as she came up behind Lena and wrapped her arms around her waist.
“Cream of chicken and wild rice soup. Your mom’s recipe.” said Lena. “Hope you don’t mind but while you took a nap I was looking for some recipes and found that.” she nodded to an old recipe box sitting on the counter.
“Oh wow.” Kara smiled as she reached for the box. “You found all of the Zor-El family recipes.”
The timer on the oven beeped.
“And that would be your Aunt Astra’s famous double chocolate Texas sheet cake.” said Lena.
Kara’s eyes practically bugged out of her head. “How long was I asleep?”
Lena laughed. “Two hours. But you literally were just released from the hospital and had major surgery two days ago. It’s allowed. Hell, it’s encouraged.”
“Lena, you didn’t have to do all of this.”
Lena pulled out the cake. “I know I didn’t have to. I wanted to.” she grabbed the saucepan filled with the dark chocolate icing she made from scratch and poured it onto the cake, smoothing it out. “Besides. This cake recipe had like, a million stars on it. Something told me it was your favorite.”
Kara chuckled. “Yeah. I might have discovered this recipe card when I was like, six, and left hints for my mom that I wanted it for my birthday.”
She pulled Lena into a hug and kissed her. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” Lena kissed her back.
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
They sat down for lunch and Kara devoured three huge bowls of soup before somehow adding two large pieces of cake on top of it. As she helped Lena clean up the kitchen the doorbell rang. Kara continued scrubbing at the soup pot while Lena went to answer the door.
“Detective Decker, Detective Morningstar.” Lena stepped aside to let them in. “Come on in. We’ve been waiting for you.”
The detectives came inside and wiped their shoes on the mat.
“Sorry that we are so late, Miss Luthor. Is Miss Danvers here?” said Detective Decker.
“Be there in a minute!” hollered Kara.
Lena gestured for them to sit on the couch.
“How are you doing, Miss Luthor?” asked Detective Morningstar. “You two have been through quite a bit over the last couple of months.”
“We’re doing about as well as you might expect.” said Lena honestly.
Kara limped into the room. “I’m honestly more curious about the other guy. No one has told us a thing.”
She sat down next to Lena.
“That’s why we were late today.” said Detective Decker. “We’ve been incredibly busy the last couple of days.”
“The man that broke into your house survived.” said Detective Morningstar. “By some miracle he woke up only a few hours ago.”
“Holy fuck!” blurted Kara in disbelief.
Lena shook her head. “He survived? The last time I saw him they were doing CPR.”
“They did lose him for a couple of minutes.” said Detective Decker. “He was shot a total of five times.”
“I do believe the term ‘Swiss cheese’ was thrown around.” quipped Detective Morningstar, which earned him a side-eye from his partner. “You’re quite the shot, Miss Danvers.”
Detective Decker ignored him. “Since he didn’t have any identification we had to fingerprint him. And that’s when things got interesting.”
She pulled out her phone and showed them a picture.
“Does the name Ben Lockwood sound familiar to either of you?”
Lena hadn’t recognized the picture but her heart leapt into her throat at that name. She had heard it before, but where?
“No.” said Kara.
“No.” lied Lena.
“He’s quite the interesting character.” continued Detective Decker. “As soon as we put in his prints they were flagged by the FBI. Turns out he’s a hitman that’s been on their ‘Most Wanted’ list for nearly a decade.”
Kara just blinked. “Someone hired an actual hitman to kill Lena?”
“Not just Lena.” said Detective Decker.
Kara blanched.
“When Mr. Lockwood was confronted by not only ourselves but his impending FBI arrest, and the fact that one of Miss Danvers’ shots had rendered him paralyzed from the middle of his abdomen down—” started Detective Morningstar.
“—And looking at the death penalty.” added Detective Decker.
“—Mr. Lockwood decided it was in his best interest to cooperate with both of our agencies.” finished Detective Decker. “Now, we don’t know the full extent and aren’t allowed to talk too much about what we do know, but it would seem that the FBI had recently received some anonymous information that ties Mr. Lockwood to some incredibly powerful international groups.”
Lena blindly fumbled for Kara’s hand. She found it and gripped it tightly.
Detective Decker continued. “That plus Mr. Lockwood’s testimony gave law enforcement enough probable cause to arrest Maxwell Lord about an hour ago. And we now know the location of one Morgan Edge.”
“The FBI should have him in their custody sometime today.” said Detective Morningstar.
Lena and Kara were both stunned into silence.
“There’s one more thing.” Detective Decker and Morningstar shared a look. “We don’t know the full extent, nor how, but…somehow your brother is tied up in all of this.”
Lena instantly paled.
“How?” Kara held Lena’s hand securely.
The detectives shook their heads.
“Not sure.” said Detective Decker. “Feds wouldn’t tell us.”
“What about my mother?” Lena croaked.
“She wasn’t mentioned.” said Detective Morningstar.
Kara instinctively hugged Lena close to her. “So what? He was just pretending to lose his mind?”
“No.” sighed Detective Decker. “No. That was very much real. The prison has launched an internal investigation. It sounds like he manipulated a guard or two.”
Lena barked a mirthless laugh. “Of course he did. Even when his mind is gone his true nature is strong enough to claw its way to the surface. Fuck!” she buried her face in her hands. “God! It just never ends!”
“If Lex had anything to do with the attempts on either of our lives that means the death penalty. Right?” Kara’s eyes were burning.
“Indiana has a murder only death penalty. However. I am confident that there will be enough evidence to meet the aggravated circumstances charges. Specifically the organized crime clause. So, theoretically, yes.” said Detective Morningstar.
The seemed to placate Kara. “Okay. I don’t want anyone to die, but if it were between him or Lena…ain’t no choice.” she gave Lena a squeeze. “So what do you need us to do?”
“We already have Miss Luthor’s statement from the night of the shooting, so now all we need is yours.” said Detective Decker. “After that, we will compile everything we have and send it to the Indiana Attorney General.”
“Will you let us know when Edge has been arrested?” said Lena.
“We can.” nodded Detective Decker.
“Thank you.” said Kara.
Lena patted Kara’s leg. “If you will excuse me, I just remembered I need to make a call.”
“Okay.” Kara gave her a kiss before she left.
Lena grabbed her phone and slipped into the shop while Kara gave her statement. Her jaw clenched as the phone rang.
“Lena? I’m surprised that you’re calling.”
“Oh, save it, mother.” bit Lena. “Tell me everything you know about my psychotic brother. And don’t you fucking lie to me.”
“What are you talking about?”
“Ben. Lockwood.”
Lillian fell silent.
“I know I’ve heard Lex say that name before.” Lena was practically foaming at the mouth. “Tell me everything that Golden Boy has been telling you.”
“Lena, I assure you, he has told me nothing. I haven’t seen your brother in nearly two months.”
“Then tell me how the fuck Ben Lockwood broke into our home three days ago and nearly killed Kara.” Lena was irate.
“What?” gasped Lillian.
“You heard me. Ben Lockwood broke into our house. Had I not made a security failsafe both Kara and I would be dead. Kara literally took two bullets for me and had briefly succeeded in killing Lockwood before the medics brought him back.” Lena’s voice was dripping with venom. “That fucking piece of shit survived. He gave up Lord and Morgan too. And just when I think things might be over, the cops tell me that Lex is involved. So spill it, mother. I know you know.”
“Lena.” Lillian sounded genuinely concerned, she sighed. “First of all, I’m…I’m glad that you are okay. That Kara is okay.”
Lena stared blankly ahead. What?
“I swear to you that I had no idea that Lex was going after you. The last time I had visited him something seemed off. It was like he was his old self. He was calm and level-headed. He even seemed happy.”
Every word felt like a dagger in Lena’s heart.
“He kept talking about you and how he was excited to meet your new girlfriend. But, Lena, I never told him about Kara.”
Lena’s stomach dropped.
“After my visit I felt…disturbed. He kept talking about reunions with old friends and he kept asking how Mr. Corbin was. I told him that he was fine.” Lillian cleared her throat. “Remember how I told you that Mr. Corbin had gone missing?”
“Yes…”
“The police found his body four days ago.”
“Lockwood.”
“Perhaps. So I did some digging. Let me preface what I’m about to tell you by saying that all the information I have I sent to the police.”
Lena held her breath.
“I believe Lex bribed a guard to sneak him a phone. There were a series of strange transactions from your brother’s account that were flagged. The bank had simply flagged them since they were large sums but not the receivers. I had Andrea look into it and asked her not to tell you until we were sure we had what we needed.”
Lena clenched her jaw and made a mental note to possibly yell at Andrea later.
“I believe we uncovered payments to Edge with Lord as the intermediary. Through a series of shell corporations.”
“So Lex was working with Lord and Edge to have me killed.” said Lena plainly.
“I can’t prove it.”
Lena rolled her eyes. “The prosecution will need to but I assure you I don’t need proof. Lex couldn’t handle that he was ultimately outwitted by his dullard and far less superior sister. His wounded ego demanded my life for compensation.”
“Lena, I’m…I’m sorry. For everything.”
Lena froze. She had gone her entire life without ever hearing Lillian utter those words.
“Truly.” Lillian’s voice was back to its usual clipped tone as she reined in her emotions. “I know that I don’t deserve your forgiveness. But…I’m sorry. And…and I hope that maybe one day you won’t feel such contempt for me. I only did what I thought was best. What would push you to be your best. That you would step into the Luthor name with greatness. I know I didn’t show it but, I always believed in you, Lena.”
Lena couldn’t find any words.
“Please tell Kara that I’m grateful for her saving your life. It means more to me than you will ever know.”
Lillian hung up. Lena’s arm dropped to her side as tears filled her eyes.
* * *
Kara felt like her head was swimming. “Woah.”
Lena sighed heavily and propped her arm up on the back of the couch as she sank down into the cushions.
Kara shook her head in disbelief and blinked. “So it was your mom that found the Lex connection.”
“Yep.” Lena’s voice was clipped.
“That’s just…how are you feelin’? That was all, like, a lot.”
“Honestly? I don’t know what I’m feeling. She apologized and seemed genuine about it. She even said that she was grateful that you saved my life.”
“Wow. This is Lillian Luthor we’re talkin’ about. Right?”
Lena nodded.
“I guess we’ll find out sooner or later if she was tellin’ the truth about your brother.” said Kara. “Maybe she really is changing?”
“Only took her daughter almost dying to do so. Twice, I might add.”
Kara shrugged. “Sometimes people need the equivalent of a two by four whackin’ them upside the head for them so see what really matters. It’s sad but at least it seemed to work for her. It’d be worse if it had no impact.”
“I suppose.” Lena sighed.
Kara scooted closer and kissed her.
“I love you. And I promise you that it will never take a two by four to the head for me to remember that.”
Lena kissed her back. “I love you too. Permission to use a two by eight if needed?”
Kara cackled. “Only if it’s made of balsa.”
Chapter Text
Lena stood leaning on the kitchen island, her eyes transfixed on the large TV out in the living room. Kara had told her to turn it off but she just…couldn’t. For nearly twenty-four hours she had seen the shaggy and unkempt visage of Morgan Edge, cuffed, and shoved in the back of a police car. The FBI had finally found him. The continuously talking heads on the TV kept saying his name along with Maxwell Lord and Lex Luthor as their pictures and videos of their arrests played on the screen. Her name was uttered and her picture shown but for once in her life there was a genuine sympathetic tone instead of cautious and carefully chosen words. Funny how it took two attempts on her life before all of her good deeds to get so much free—and well-deserved—press.
She could finally breathe. It was over.
Lord didn’t have anything to do with Lockwood but was behind the cyberattack on L-Corp that lured Lena. He had stated that he only meant to scare her into selling Walsh Technologies but that it wasn’t supposed to go any farther than that and that Edge was to blame for her near-death experience. Edge had managed to contact Lex in prison and that was how he had found out about Lockwood. Lex, still enraged at his sister and manic, had told him how to get ahold of Lockwood. He had also contributed what he could financially to paying for the contract on his sister. Edge had thrown in Kara as a little extra payback. Lockwood had rolled on them all.
Lord had been deemed a flight risk and had therefore been denied bail. Which meant he had spent the last three weeks in the National City Jail. Lex had snapped and earned himself a lengthy stay in solitary. And now, with the—surely hundreds—of charges that Edge had earned himself, he was not going to be granted bail either. Ben Lockwood’s faced flashed on screen as well. He had accepted a plea deal and was going to spend the rest of his life in a federal prison with no chance of parole and no chance of ever walking again.
“Him standing ain’t the only thing that ain’t ever gonna get up again.”
Lena couldn’t help the pleased smirk that spread across her face as she remembered Kara’s joke. She sighed and got back to work. This was her first real Thanksgiving and she was determined to not mess it up. Grandma, Eliza, and Alex had all told her that she didn’t need to host, given everything that had happened, but Lena and Kara both insisted. Kara had just wanted things to get back to normal and Lena more than welcomed the distraction. They had spent the last two weeks finishing decorating the new house and moving Lena’s things in, as well as some of Kara’s. The first night they had spent here had felt strange. Kara’s house had essentially started to feel like home to Lena. So much so that there were times that she even forgot about her own new house that was being built, despite Kara literally building it. The doorbell rang. She checked her watch. After a rather lengthy and spirited group chat all of the ladies had decided that if Lena and Kara were to host, then they would all just come over early in the morning and help create the feast.
Lena opened her front door with a smile. “Hi!”
“Hello, dear!” Eliza gave her a hug.
“Come on in.” Lena let her in. “I followed your instructions and the turkey is already in the oven.”
“Perfect.” smiled Eliza. “Your Christmas decorations look lovely by the way.”
Lena laughed. “That would be thanks to your daughter. She said that we can’t turn them on until Thanksgiving is over and insisted that since I didn’t exactly have a traditional upbringing that I needed to fully experience everything Christmas.”
Eliza laughed. “Did she make you watch Christmas Vacation?”
Lena laughed again as they made their way to the kitchen with Eliza’s grocery bags. “Yes. However, I insisted that if Kara was going to be up on the roof putting up lights that she was not allowed to pull a Clark Griswold and that I wouldn’t allow her up there without a safety harness.”
Eliza chuckled. “Yeah, Kara tends to throw herself headfirst into holiday festivities. This time of year tends to bring up painful memories.”
Lena nodded knowingly. “I bet. She hasn’t really talked about her parents but I’m not going to push her.”
There was a knock at the door.
“Hello!” sang Grandma Linda.
“We’re in the kitchen!” hollered Lena.
Over the next ten minutes everyone slowly trickled in. Kelly and Esme, Lucy, M’gann, Nia, and Iris. In no time the kitchen was bustling with activity. Casseroles, pies, stuffing, and side-dishes all getting made. Esme had made herself at home and was watching the Disney Channel.
“Has anyone heard back from the boys yet? Anyone get anything?” asked Nia.
“Not yet.” answered Lucy.
“They probably have deer coming out their ears by now.” said Kelly.
“I wouldn’t be surprised.” said Lena. “Kara has had several trail cams set up all around the property for the last week and has been carefully monitoring them. Ever since the doctor cleared her for more activity she’s been chomping at the bit to get something.”
“Considering the size of your woods I wouldn’t be shocked if each one of them gets something.” said Iris.
“It would be easier to tell if they had taken their rifles instead of bows.” added Lucy.
“True.” said Nia. “But I don’t think Brainy would use one. Too loud. Plus, he says he enjoys the challenge of trying to connect with ‘our hunter-gatherer roots’.” she giggled.
“Well, whatever they get, I already told Kara that they would have to skin everything out there in the woods.” said Lena. “They can use the garage for processing, but I don’t want to see the process before the process.”
Lucy barked a laughed. “Good for you. I nearly killed James the first time he did it in our garage. I had the misfortune of walking out just as he was decapitating it.” a shiver went down her spine. “I can never look at a hacksaw the same way.”
“Ew.” Iris cringed.
“And how exactly did you look at a hacksaw before?” laughed Kelly.
“You should have seen what our place looked like when my husband decided he wanted to be a turkey hunter. Feathers. Everywhere.” emphasized M’gann. “I honestly thought that I might have to learn how to stuff pillows with them or something.”
They all laughed.
“Kara swears that it will all be worth it once she makes Jeremiah’s summer sausage recipe.” said Lena.
“I’ll swear by it too.” added Eliza. “My husband might have been able to burn water but somehow created a magical recipe with venison.”
Grandma Linda laughed at that. “Too true. Just like his father.”
“I just hope Kara gets something.” said Lena. “She hyped up how the backstraps were even more tender than fillet mignon and now she needs to deliver on it.”
“She’s not wrong.” said Kelly. “The way that Alex prepares them—” she kissed her fingers, “—melts in your mouth.”
Suddenly, all of their phones started dinging with notifications. Kara, J’onn, Winn, Alex and Brainy had sent pictures. Kara was flashing her signature thousand watt smile as she held up her prize.
“Holy shit!” gasped Lucy.
“That’s a ten-pointer!” said Eliza.
“What does that mean?” asked Lena.
“You see the antlers? Each one of the tines is called a point.” explained M’gann. “The more points the older and bigger, usually, the deer.”
“Looks like Brainy got a spike. Not bad for his first time.” said Lucy.
“J’onn got a decent doe.” said Kelly. “So did Alex.”
“So…does this mean we’re going to get to try backstraps today?” asked Iris.
“That was the plan.” said Lena.
There was excited knocking at the door to the back deck. Kara, covered in heavy winter camo—and was that blood?—was practically bouncing. Lena sent a silent thank you to Brainy for convincing her to add a “mud room” with a deep sink onto the garage. Esme jumped up and ran over and opened the door.
“Did you get anything?” Esme asked excitedly.
“Yes I did, kiddo! So did your momma.” smiled Kara.
“That was fast.” said Lena as she wiped her hands on the apron Grandma had given her.
“Meh. Not really. We just waited until we were done to send the pics. J’onn and I got ours just after sunrise. And by, like, eight, everyone else had gotten theirs. Took a minute to find Winn’s cuz she managed to make it about a hundred yards before dropping down in a creek. That’s one of the bummers of a gut shot.” said Kara. “We followed your rules and hung them from trees out in the woods to, you know…” she gestured vaguely, not wanting to go into specifics with Esme there. “James and Barry put plastic on the back racks of the quads and have been bringing each one up as we quarter them. Brainy and Winn are already butchering. It shouldn’t take us too long. Maybe an hour since we’re gonna burger everything but the straps.”
“Can I see?” asked Esme innocently.
“Uh…you’re gonna have to ask your mother about that.” said Kara. “I have no problem with it.” she looked at Lena and shrugged. “Just kinda looks like cuts of beef now.”
Esme ran off to ask Kelly.
“If you’re interested. I did take some video of the process.” Kara flashed a smirk. “Something told me that your scientific curiosity might get the better of you.”
Lena arched a brow. “Oh?”
“Yeah.”
Lena chuckled warmly as she gave Kara a kiss. “We’ll see about that.”
Kara smiled. “Once we’re done I gotta drop Barry off at home so he can get a shower. Alex was just going to shower here and J’onn, Brainy, and Winn carpooled. I told them that they better be back by one sharp otherwise they won’t get any pie.” she moved to go to the garage but stopped and snapped her fingers. “Oh. Uh. If I were to make a European mount for my buck—”
“All trophies will hang in the garage until I decide otherwise.” said Lena firmly.
“Just as long as I still get to make it.” Kara gave her a quick kiss. “I’ll do it another day, though. Takes a lot of cleaning, boiling, and peroxide.”
“I don’t want to know.” Lena waved her off. “Go. You promised fillets.”
Kara smiled and trotted off.
* * *
Lena looked around at all of the smiling faces in her house. Kara, Alex, Kelly, Esme, Eliza, Grandma, Barry, Iris, Lucy, James, Nia, Brainy, J’onn, M’gann, Winn, Clark, Lois, Jon, Jordan, Sam, Ruby, and Jack. Her heart was bursting.
I have a family.
She could feel the tears welling up behind her eyes. A warm hand was on her thigh.
“You okay?” asked Kara gently.
Lena put her hand on top of Kara’s and squeezed. “Better than okay.”
Kara smiled. “Good. Your turkey turned out perfect, by the way.”
“Thanks. And I concede about the backstraps. You were right.” said Lena. “Guess this means you’re going to have to go hunting every year to bring me more.”
“Oh darn. Whatever will I do?” Kara said sarcastically with a lopsided grin.
When the meal was over the men took over cleanup duty since the ladies had made everything. They sat in the living room drinking coffee and tea while the kids—hopped up on pie and whipped cream—were ushered into the basement, though their screams of delight could still be heard; the twins had brought their arsenal of Nerf guns and swords. The adults eventually started playing card games and when the kids came up to investigate Kara took them back downstairs to show them the wonders of Lena’s entertainment system. She laughed at how comically large their eyes got when they realized that an entire wall essentially became a TV when a projector was turned on. For the next hour hardly a peep was heard out of the kids as they played life-sized Mario Kart.
It was around five when the doorbell rang again. Lena shot Kara a quizzical look as she got up to answer it. She opened the door and came to a grinding halt.
“Mother?”
Lillian stood somewhat awkwardly outside. “You have a lovely home.”
Lena shook her head. “I didn’t think you were coming. Come in.”
Lillian stepped inside. “To be honest I didn’t think I was going to come. I know that Kara had extended an invitation on your behalf but…I just wasn’t sure.”
“I told her she could.” said Lena. “Would you like to come in?”
“I wouldn’t want to impose—”
“Lillian! You came!” Kara suddenly appeared. “How are you?”
Lillian was taken aback by Kara’s friendly behavior.
“Fine. All things considered.”
Kara nodded. “I get that.”
“I actually don’t know what I’m going here. I was under the impression that I was unwelcome in your lives.” said Lillian.
Kara pulled Lena to her side by her hip. “Once upon a time. Yeah. But after doing what you did with Lex. I mean, turning in your own son for trying to kill your daughter—” Kara shrugged. “—I thought you at least deserved a chance to mend things with your daughter.”
Lillian looked at Lena. “Is that what you want?”
“It took a lot of talking things out, but I think I would like to try.” said Lena.
“I see.” said Lillian.
“Would you like to come in?” said Kara. “We can make you a plate. Everyone’s just chillin’ and playin’ games right now.”
“I really don’t want to intrude on your family time.”
Kara looked at her thoughtfully. “I know we aren’t family, but one day we will be. And I’ve been in my fair share of family disputes. If I have a chance at healing things, then I’m gonna take it.”
“You seem sure of yourself.” Lillian eyed her.
Kara shrugged. “You go and get yourself shot once and it kinda changes your perspective on things. Life is too short to be nasty to each other.”
“You can leave whenever you like.” added Lena. “I won’t keep you if you don’t want to be here.”
Lillian sighed dramatically. “No. No, I think I’ll stay. For a little bit. It is quite a drive up here.”
Lena led her into the kitchen to make her a dinner plate. Sam and Jack swarmed Kara and pulled her to the side.
“Lillian?” hissed Jack.
“What’s she doing here?” gasped Sam.
“Relax, guys.” assured Kara. “I invited her. Things have changed. Since she turned in Lex…I don’t know. There’s just something different about her. She’s, like, actually trying to have a relationship with Lena. And can you blame her? She might have very well sent her only son to death row. I think that warrants a second chance of some sort.”
Jack shook his head. “You’re a better man than I.”
“Why didn’t Lena tell us that you invited her?” asked Sam.
“I don’t know. Maybe because she didn’t want drama. Or most likely she didn’t think that she would even show up.” said Kara. “The point is that we support Lena. I know she won’t ever have a typical relationship with Lillian, but I think she really does want to have some sort of relationship with her.”
Sam sighed as she watched Lillian stiffly sit down at the kitchen island to eat, oddly not wanting to be a social butterfly that was the center of attention. “You’re right. There is something different about her.”
“Now that I think about it, there haven’t been any unannounced visits to L-Corp to check up on our work.” said Jack. “Not since just before Lena’s accident.”
Kara watched the somewhat tense scene as Lena offered Lillian some wine.
“I’m just gonna have to give her the benefit of the doubt for now. I’m realistic. I know that they will never go on shopping trips together or have family movie nights. But if Lillian can at least support Lena in her decisions about her life…then I’d count it a win.” Kara smiled sadly. “I just want Lena to have a family.”
“But she does.” said Sam.
“Yeah.” echoed Jack. “Look around, Kara. In all my life that I’ve known Lena I could only dream that she would even find a percent of what she has now. I know with Sam and Ruby and I, that we had our own little family, but now…we all have each other. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” Jack smiled warmly. “Although I draw the line at hunting. I don’t care what Winn says, I’m not sticking my hand in a dead animal to pull out its guts.”
Kara laughed and Sam shook her head.
“We are a family, aren’t we?” Kara smiled at both Sam and Jack.
Jack got a twinkle in his eye. “The twins already called me Uncle Jack.”
Kara arched a brow at him. “Whatever happened to mister ‘Kids are sticky and noisy’?”
“Yeah.” Sam smiled impishly. “If I didn’t know any better I’d say you’ve gone soft, Jacky.”
Jack held up a finger. “One, I still think they are. Two, I still won’t have any of my own. However, I like the ring that Uncle Jack has to it. Who took you to your first bar? Uncle Jack. Who helped you pick out your first designer suit? Uncle Jack. Who gets plastered every Thanksgiving and yells at the TV even though he has zero idea about football? Uncle Jack.”
Sam and Kara laughed. Lena came over and snaked her arm around Kara.
“What’s so funny?”
“Remind me to not let Uncle Jack ever take our kids to the bar.” smiled Kara.
Lena rolled her eyes and looked at Jack. “What did you do now?”
“Nothing!” swore Jack. “Just reveling in the idea of being the fun uncle.”
Kara’s eyes suddenly went wide with potential worry as Grandma Linda noticed their newest guest and made her way into the kitchen.
“Uh oh.” mumbled Kara.
“What?” said Lena.
“Grandma found Lillian.”
“Shit.”
They both went into the kitchen.
“You know your daughter made that turkey all on her own.” smiled Grandma Linda.
“Really? It’s quite delicious.” said Lillian politely as she looked at Lena.
“Thanks.” Lena blushed a little.
“Yes, your daughter is quite amazing.” said Grandma, she looked like she was about to say something else but held her tongue.
Lillian took a sip of wine. “I’m quite in agreement.”
Lena was gobsmacked.
“Grandma, Lillian is part of the reason why our attackers will face justice.” said Kara.
She could tell that Grandma was wrestling with speaking her mind.
“Good.” nodded Grandma definitively. “They deserve exactly what’s coming to them. Especially after all the trouble Mr. Luthor has caused.”
Lillian cleared her throat and politely wiped her mouth with her napkin.
“Yes. My son…my son has caused more than his fair share of hurt.”
Grandma grunted a mirthless laugh. “Man’s a monster.”
Lillian remained silent. Grandma continued.
“I’m not going to lie. For years I thought about what might happen if I ever came face to face with you or your son. I wanted to see your reaction to someone who was hurt by your ImmunePro poison.” Grandma’s shoulders sagged as she relented. “But carrying around that much hate wears on a person. I know that you weren’t directly responsible and that your crimes were more of the white collar-spitting-in-the-face-of-the-government-and-avoiding-taxes-type, but for the longest time I blamed you for the sins of your son. But. That was wrong. Your recent actions regarding my granddaughter, and your own daughter, show me that, perhaps, I was hasty in my judgments.”
Lillian was struck speechless. “I’m—I’m sorry that you were hurt by my son. I know that there is nothing I could ever do to heal the hurt he caused so many people.”
“I don’t expect you to.” said Grandma. “That’s unreasonable. But I won’t mince words. I think he deserves the death penalty for what he’s done. He’s lucky he’s where he is because he stands a better chance in there than out here with me.” she pointed to Kara and Lena. “These girls means the world to me and I love them dearly. No one, and I mean no one, messes with my family. I will not hesitate to rain holy hell down upon anyone who tries.”
“Okay, grandma.” Kara rubbed her shoulders. “Thank you. But you won’t have to rain hell down on anyone. It’s all done and being dealt with. We’re okay now. We’re safe.”
Grandma teared up and patted Kara’s hand. “Don’t you ever leave me. You hear? Neither one of you. Grandmas are supposed to go before their grandbabies. That’s how it goes.” she wiped a tear and hugged Kara and then Lena, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Love you, missy.” She then went back to the laughter in the living room.
Lillian softened and even looked sad. “Your family really loves you.” she looked from Kara to Lena. “I’m glad that you’ve found—” she cleared her throat, “—I’m happy for you.”
“Thank you.” Lena held back tears.
Lillian looked out of sorts. “Maybe I should go.”
“You can if you want to.” said Kara. “There’s no pressure. Feel free to stay and finish your meal. I can pack up a dessert for ya if you want. You like pie? We have pumpkin, pecan, lemon, German chocolate, apple, old fashioned cream, buckeye, and blueberry. Hell, there’s enough I could send you home with one of each.”
* * *
Kara sat on the couch with her feet up on the ottoman as she stared into the flames of the fire she built in the fireplace. Lena was tucked into her side and had fallen asleep. Kara smiled small. Today had been…perfect. She had gotten to go hunting with her friends and got to witness Brainy harvesting his first ever deer. The smile on his face as she snapped his picture said everything. But the best smile of the day was Lena’s, hands down. Kara had caught a glimpse of her when she was talking with all the gals in the kitchen and she looked like she was positively glowing. There was nothing but love there. Even when Lillian surprised them both by actually showing up it had gone better than Kara expected. They managed to get her to at least stay long enough to eat some of the amazing food Lena had made and, despite her protests, sent her home with a sampling of every single pie. Things had been a little rocky after Grandma confronted her but it seemed it was what Lena needed in order to break the ice. Kara had left her to talk with Lillian. She knew that if Lillian truly was going to try and make some serious changes that nothing was going to happen overnight. But they did manage to talk some. Lillian opened up a little more about Lex and how she came to the decision to choose Lena over him for once in her life. It was enough that Lena had opened the invitation herself for Lillian to visit during Christmas or for her to come to National City for dinner one night.
Kara fought a chuckled as she thought about Uncle Jack being cornered by all four kids and subsequently pelted by various Nerf ammo. All things considered he really had been a good sport about it. Esme and the boys even referred to Sam as Aunt Sam and asked Aunt Lena when they would see her and “cousin” Ruby again.
She sighed in contentment. This was the life she had always dreamed of. She wasn’t naïve, though, she knew that there would be bumps and possibly rough times—attempts on their lives aside—but she wanted it all. Fun, fights, love, laughter, arguments, heated talks, happiness, conflicting family schedules, and just…family.
She rubbed Lena’s arm to gently wake her.
“Babe?”
Lena groaned and buried herself deeper into Kara. Kara smiled.
“Leeeenaaaa…” she rubbed a little harder.
“Mm.” Lena grunted. “Sleepy.”
“I know. But there’s something I want to show you.” Kara jostled her a little more.
Lena yawned and sat up, giving Kara her best frowny-pouty face. “What?”
Kara stood up and pulled her up. “Come on. You’ll love it. I promise. Let’s grab your coat.”
Lena let herself be pulled up. They put on their coats and went outside. Lena hugged herself against the freezing wind. Kara led her some distance away from the house and turned her around.
“Stay here.”
She jogged back to the house. Lena bounced to try and keep warm. Kara came back after a minute.
“Okay. Turn around!”
Lena turned around and her jaw dropped. “Oh my god, Kara!”
The house was absolutely lit up with lights. Tears immediately sprang to Lena’s eyes. It looked like every house she had ever seen in the cheesy Christmas movies. Somehow Kara had used different colored light strands and spelled out “Merry X-Mas” on the roof. She also had a gaudy snowman with a hand-made sign pointed to the chimney saying “Santa land here” with a fake chimney on the other side of the house and a fat Santa stuck upside down in it with his huge butt sticking out. Every single bush and tree was filled with lights. Near the garage Lena could see a Grinch “stealing” the lights hanging from the gutters while Cousin Eddie was dumping his RV’s septic tank into a flower bed with “Shitter’s full!” lit up over his head. It was cheesy and trashy and kitschy and perfectly Kara.
“Whatchya think?” Kara looked at her hopefully.
Lena laughed. “Well, first of all, I question your mother’s decorating standards if she thinks that this is ‘lovely’.”
Kara barked a laugh.
“But…it’s perfect. I love it, truly.” Lena smiled at her.
Kara pulled her into her arms and hugged her close. “Your authentic Kara Danvers Zor-El childhood Christmas experience begins now. Er, well, technically it already started since we watched Christmas Vacation. But yeah.”
Lena kissed her. “Thank you. For everything.”
“Of course.” Kara smiled at her. “You deserve everything Lena since you’ve already given me everything.”
“I have?”
“Yeah. You.”
Lena couldn’t stop the tears if she wanted to. She kissed Kara deeply.
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
“What?” said Lena.
Kara channeled her best Clark Griswold and kissed Lena again. “Hallelujah and holy shit!”
Lena just rolled her eyes.
Chapter 21
Notes:
Thank you to everyone who read/liked/commented on this fic! Had a blast writing it.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kara couldn’t wait any longer. She ran full-tilt into the bedroom and jumped through the air like a superhero and belly-flopped onto the bed, scaring Lena awake.
“It’s Christmas morning, babe!” Kara’s eyes were sparkling as she kissed Lena all over.
Lena squealed and giggled as Kara’s lips tickled her.
“I’m up! I’m up! Kara! KARA! Ah!”
Kara finally relented and bounced herself off of the bed. “Come on! I already made us hot chocolate and my dad’s famous breakfast casserole with extra bacon!”
Lena rolled out of bed and put on a pair of extra fluffy socks that matched her Christmas themed extra fuzzy pajamas that Kara had got the both of them—though Kara would wear hers after she woke up since they were a little too warm and made her sweat during the night.
“You’re so pretty when you wake up.” Kara smiled lopsidedly.
Lena grabbed her by her shirt and pulled her in for a kiss. “And you’re too cute when you cook for me.”
They went into the kitchen and Kara already had everything dished out and ready to go. Lena took a bite.
“Oo. This is good. Definitely a winner.” she hummed in approval. “Is this only a Christmas recipe or can I make a request at any time?”
Kara chuckled. “Traditionally it’s for Christmas but dad sometimes made it for Easter too. But if you want it again I’ll make it for you.”
Lena reached out and held Kara’s hand. “How are you doing? I know the anniversary is coming up soon.”
Kara squeezed her hand. “I’m doing okay. It’s still hard but each year it gets a little better. It helps being around everyone.”
“You’ll tell me if you need anything, right?”
“I will.” Kara kissed the back of her hand. “Hurry up and eat. I want to get to presents! We have to be over at Alex’s by eleven.”
Lena did her best to eat quickly but still enjoy her food while Kara wolfed everything down per her usual. The moment she was done Kara practically dragged her over to the tree and plopped down in front of it. She excitedly pulled out each of Lena’s wrapped gifts and piled them in front of her. Lena was still in disbelief that there were actual presents under the tree with her name on them.
“Kara, when did you do all this?”
“This morning! Open them!” Kara was giddy. “This one first!”
Lena grabbed the first package and shook it like she saw all the kids do in the movies.
“It’s not a pink bunny suit is it?” she eyed Kara warily.
Kara looked her over. “Nice A Christmas Story reference. Does this mean you got me a Red Rider BB gun?”
“No! You’ll shoot your eye out, kid.” Lena deadpanned.
Kara burst out in laughter. “Just open it!”
Lena tore into the paper and opened the box inside. “Oh my god.” she rolled her eyes.
Kara was dying of laughter as Lena held up the ugliest sweater she’s ever seen.
“Congrats on your first ugly Christmas sweater!” Kara beamed. “You’re wearing it today.”
“Oh I am so not!”
“Hell yes you are! We all are! It started as an egg-nog induced joke when Alex was in college but turned into a tradition.”
“Why does that sound perfectly in-character for the both of you?”
Kara laughed.
Lena continued to open her gifts and with each one her heart melted a little more. A dozen individually wrapped pairs of super fuzzy socks for her perpetually cold feet.
“Okay, so I’m going to preface something.” said Kara as Lena opened her seventh pair. “I decided to wrap some smaller things to make it look like a lot more because of the super special gifts I got you.”
“Okay?” Lena arched an eyebrow.
Kara waved her off. “It’s just something my parents did for me when I was a kid so I felt like I had a shit ton more presents than I did. They tended to go for a single big thing for Christmas is all.”
After Lena finished with her socks Kara pulled out a few smaller rectangular presents.
“I think I know what these are.” Lena smiled mischievously. “Books are kinda my thing.”
“I know.” Kara mirrored her smile. “But ya ain’t gonna guess these.”
Lena unwrapped the first one that was particularly hefty and her jaw dropped.
“Oh my god…”
The book wasn’t in the greatest condition but Lena didn’t care.
“Holy fuck…Kara…this is a first edition Thinking and Destiny by Percival!” she gasped. “How in the world did you find this?”
Kara just shrugged and pretended to buff her nails on her shirt. “I have my ways.”
Lena tore into the next book.
“Periphyseon? Kara, they don’t even print this anymore!”
“Uh, I beg to differ. The Trustees of Harvard University do.”
Another.
“You found a hardcover of Russel’s Universal One?” Lena was in perpetual shock.
“Keep goin’.” Kara smiled.
Lena unwrapped the last seven much smaller books. “The entire Loeb Classical collection of Plotinus?”
Kara looked like she was going to burst. “And here you thought I wasn’t paying attention when you were talking about obscure Neo-Platonic philosophy.”
Lena put down the books and practically dove into Kara’s arms and kissed her.
“Merry Christmas.” Kara mumbled around her lips. “But you got one more.”
“Kara! How much did you spend on me?”
“Not the point.” Kara stood up. “I wanted our first Christmas to be something that you remembered for forever. Now wait here!”
Lena moved to speak but Kara dashed off towards her office. Lena sat still in disbelief as she looked at her newest collection of books. Her heart was bursting with love and she didn’t know what to do with it all. Kara came back carefully holding a large cardboard box.
“Okay. So I know we talked about this but…I couldn’t resist.” she set down the box and it moved.
Lena looked wide-eyed at Kara and quickly took off the decorated lid. A pair of pointy white ears popped up. Lena immediately started crying as she picked up the white German Shepherd puppy.
“Oh my god, Kara!” she sobbed as she held the dog close.
“His name is Krypto and he wanted to let you know that out of aaaallll the mommies and daddies he could choose, he chose to come live with you.” Kara fought tears. “You said how you always wanted to get a pet but the Luthor mansion had a strict no pets rule.”
Lena sobbed as Krypto licked her face.
“Lena? Are you okay?” Kara worried.
Lena looked up at her with shining eyes. “I love you.” she whispered. “What did I do to deserve you?”
Kara pulled her into a hug. “I love you too. And you didn’t have to do anything other than just be you and let me love you.”
She held on and rocked Lena as she cried. Eventually, Krypto had wriggled out of her arms and was licking her face like mad until she started to laugh.
“How did you even get him?” asked Lena as she scratched his ears.
“I looked around for puppies and just kinda fell in love with him the moment I met him. He’s been chillin’ with Barry for a couple of days.” said Kara. “I went and got him early this morning. Gave him a bone to keep him quiet in your office. Glad he didn’t pee everywhere.”
“So that’s why you were up so early. Sneaky.”
Kara smiled. “Yep. I got the bare necessities for him because I thought it would be a fun date to go to PetCo and pick out stuff together.”
“Tomorrow?” Lena said hopefully.
“Sure!” Kara started playing with Krypto.
Lena squealed in delight as Krypto decided to attack her with kisses again. Kara just smiled in contentment at the happy sight, seeing Lena so happy made her heart feel so full.
Lena managed to wrangle the now hyper puppy a moment. “Now it’s time for your presents.”
“Oh?” said Kara.
“Put on your coat.”
They put on their coats and boots and Kara put Krypto on his leash. Lena took her outside to the newest addition to the estate: a very nice pole barn. There was a giant bow on the door. Kara gave Lena a look.
“Go look inside.” Lena bit her lip in excitement.
Kara opened the door and her jaw instantly hit the floor. The entire space was heated and lit up. One of the bays was filled with gleaming new weights and a bench and power rack with various other workout paraphernalia. But that wasn’t what brought Kara to a halt. The first bay that they were in was a replica of her shop only much larger and much more new. Sitting on the workbench was a shiny new set of hand tools. Kara wordlessly rushed over to look at them.
“Holy FUCK!” she blurted. “Lena! These are authentic Japanese hand tools! Where—how—you! And—shop—gym…what!”
Krypto tugged hard at his leash and Lena let him go to explore.
“The guys helped me with this one. I knew generally what tools to get and what things you might need based off of what you already had, but Barry, James, and Winn kinda filled in the gaps. The gym stuff was easy. Though I hope you don’t mind that I added a few things that were a little more ‘me’ friendly.”
Kara laughed. “Yeah, I noticed.” she put down a hand saw and swept Lena up into a huge hug and kissed her madly. “I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you!”
Lena giggled as Kara put her down. “Thank you. For everything.”
Lena put her hands on Kara’s chest. “I don’t want to push you or anything. If you’re not ready—”
“I want to move it.” Kara beat her to it. “Honestly. Truly. I do. Without hesitation. I want to move in with you in your house.”
Lena draped her arms around Kara’s neck. “Our house.”
“Our house.”
* * *
The rest of the morning flew by. According to Kara the snow was “perfect packing snow” which meant Lena got a crash course in how to build a proper snow fort, a real snowman, and then got her ass chased around the yard by Kara in what appeared to be a very one-sided snowball fight. After playing with Krypto so much outside in the snow he fell asleep on Lena’s lap as she briefly curled up with one of her new books while Kara searched for her next woodworking project that she could sink her new tools into. They eventually got ready for the day and piled into Kara’s truck—since Lena’s new mustang wasn’t as snow worthy, though that didn’t stop Kara from teaching her how to do donuts in snowy parking lots—and headed off towards Alex and Kelly’s. Esme was practically beside herself when she saw Krypto. He might have only been a three month old puppy but he tugged hard enough at his leash that Lena nearly dropped the crock pot full of mashed potatoes they brought for lunch. She managed to drop the leash and Krypto took off with Esme hot on his heels.
“Great.” Alex rolled her eyes. “Now she’s going to forget all about the presents we got her.” she pointed at Kara. “I’m holding you personally responsible if all she can talk about is getting a dog now.”
Kara just laughed as she hauled in a massive wrapped box with Esme’s name on it. “Worth it.”
There were more excited squeals as Krypto made his way through the house to see Kelly, Eliza, and Grandma Linda. It didn’t take long for the house to fill up with everyone and their ugly Christmas sweaters except Lucy and James, oddly, though they promised to put them on later after lunch. They were nearly ready to sit down to eat when the doorbell rang.
“Hey, Lena, could you get that?” asked Kelly.
“Sure.”
Lena hurried to the door.
“Sam! Jack! Ruby!”
All three smiling faces waved at her.
“I thought you guys couldn’t make it!” exclaimed Lena.
“Surprise!” yelled Ruby.
“Kara insisted that it be a surprise.” said Sam.
They all stepped inside and hugged.
“Naturally, I agreed without hesitation.” said Jack. “All in good fun, though.”
“Why did Kara want it to be a surprise?” asked Lena.
Jack shrugged. “Don’t know. I guess she thought it would just make the day special?”
He shared a knowing look with Sam that Lena thankfully missed.
“Well, come on in!” Lena smiled. “We were just about ready to eat.”
Sam held up a carrier. “I brought your favorite tiramisu.”
Jack held up two bottles of wine. “And I brought refreshments.”
Lena led them inside and more hugs went around. Ruby was instantly sidetracked by Krypto. Lunch was a family affair much like Thanksgiving, however Kara kept taking pieces of ham to give to Krypto, convinced that she could teach him how to do tricks. Lena warned her that she would be the one to clean up after him if he had an accident due to too much ham but Kara was too excited that he had learned how to sit in under an hour. After lunch they gathered in the living room for the White Elephant gift exchange.
James stood up. “Okay everyone. Before we get started, Lucy and I would like to debut our sweaters.”
Lucy jumped up. “Yeah. And I can say with total confidence that we are winning the best sweater contest this year.”
“Better deliver Olsens.” Nia crossed her arms over her flashing Christmas lights that were protruding out of her sweater, and an overly-eager Buddy the Elf.
Lucy and James turned around and put on their sweaters, Lucy pulled something out of her pocket.
“You guys ready?” teased James.
They both turned around at the same time. The stitching was truly ugly and a clash of colors, so much so that it took a moment before anyone realized what they were wearing. Across James’ chest said “Baker” and Lucy’s said “Oven” and at the bottom of her sweater there was a picture of a bun.
“OHMYGOD!” Kelly practically leapt off of the couch as she figured it out first. “You’re pregnant!”
Lucy screamed in delight as she showed everyone the sonogram. Instantly, she was swarmed by all of the girls as they yelled with her. Kara hopped up and gave James a high-five and a hug.
“Congrats, dad!” she clapped him on the back.
“Does this mean I’m going to be an uncle of sorts?” Brainy asked James seriously.
“Yes.” James smiled at him. “Yes you are.”
Brainy nodded solemnly. “Then I shall get him a music player so that he may listen to Mozart. Studies have shown that early exposure to classical music has a positive impact on overall intelligence.”
“Sounds good, man.” James shook his hand.
Eventually, the excitement wound down and they got to the gifts. First up was the kids. The twins got two video games while Ruby got an Amazon gift card. Esme tore through her gift from her aunts and was quite literally jumping with excitement once she realized it was an entire playhouse.
“Now, this present is special.” said Kara. “It’s going to stay over at our house down in the basement. Okay? So you can play with it when you come over.”
“Okay! Thank you! Thank you!” she hugged Kara.
She then leapt into Lena’s arms. “Can I come over today?”
Lena and Kara laughed.
“We’ll go over another night, sweetie.” assured Kelly. “Don’t worry.”
Then came the time for the adults. There was laughter and playful arguing over mystery gifts but in the end everyone ended up having fun. They were cleaning up all of the wrapping paper when Kara—who had strategically placed herself next to the tree—pointed out something to Esme under the tree.
“Hey, Esme, what’s that?”
Everyone but Lena shared glances with each other. Esme practically crawled under the tree and brought out a small wrapped package.
“Looks like we missed a present.” said Kara. “Does it have a name on it?”
Esme looked at the tag. “Aunt Lena?”
Kara held up her hands and shrugged. Esme looked confused.
“Hey, babe?” Kara called to Lena in the kitchen. “Come here. I think Esme found another present for you.”
Lena walked over to where Kara and Esme were standing.
“Maybe we missed it last night?” Lena looked at Alex and Kelly who “looked” just as confused.
Everyone, save the twins, was quiet as Lena unwrapped her gift. It was a small wooden box that looked handmade. Lena’s heartrate skyrocketed and her face flushed. She looked up at Kara.
“Open it.” Kara smiled.
With a shaky hand Lena lifted the lid. Her hand flew to her mouth as she gasped. Tears welled up in her eyes. Inside the box, sitting on a cushion of crushed black velvet was a ring with a single sparkling diamond. Lena reached for Kara with a shaking hand. Kara took it into her own warm one.
“The moment you walked into my life I knew that you would be incredibly important to me.” Kara started. “Now, I will admit, at first I just thought we would become really good friends because I had zero clue that you were even gay. Thank you, non-existent gaydar.”
Chuckles from everyone. Lena smiled.
“And I know it sounds cliché but when I tell you I basically fell head over heels after our first lunch at the diner that day I showed you around town for the first time, it’s true.” said Kara. “There was just something about you, Lena Luthor.” she smiled lopsidedly. Tears suddenly started welling up in her eyes and she cleared her throat. “I, um—there was a time in my life when I struggled with loving myself and thought that I would never find love. Because who would want to be with someone who didn’t even love themselves? Let alone know who they are? I spent so many years being secretly, and at times not-so-secretly, lost, lonely, and depressed. Then one day the universe hit me upside the head with a two by four—spoiler, it wasn’t made of balsa.” she smirked.
Lena laughed and wiped her eyes with her sleeve as she held on to Kara’s hand.
“Though it sucked, it turned out to be exactly what I needed so that I could become the person I was supposed to be. So that I could be what you needed.” Kara took a deep breath. “Even after we got together it still took some time for me to finally see that everything I had been through up until we met just brought me that much closer to you. I put faith in the universe that I would one day meet my future wife.” a single tear escaped. “Then I met you. And I never knew that I could be capable of such love. Not only did you let me love you, but I finally felt worthy of someone else’s love. You saw me. You saw Kara. And you weren’t disgusted or scared or—or judgmental. You just loved me.” she squeezed Lena’s hand. “I think it’s safe to say that we’ve been through more in such a short time than most have been through in their entire lives.”
Lena laughed wetly. “True.”
Kara smiled. “So that’s how I know we can make it through whatever else comes our way. I want to wake up next to you every day. I want to tell you every day how beautiful you are and how much I love you. I want to grow old with you and experience everything this life has to offer with you. I love you, Lena Luthor. Not your name. Not your family. Not your money. Or your status. I love your heart. I love your brilliant, brilliant mind. I love your compassion and how you want to help people. I want you, I choose you, because I love you with all my heart and I want to spend the rest of my life making sure that you know that with every fiber of your being. You’re my soulmate.” Kara gently took the box and got down on one knee as Lena openly wept. “I love you, Lena. Will you marry me?”
Lena nodded enthusiastically as she had trouble finding her words.
“Yes!” she laughed wetly. “Yes!”
Kara absolutely lit up. She took the ring out of the box and slipped it onto Lena’s shaking finger. Lena immediately grabbed her and pulled her up into a tearful kiss, never wanting to let her go.
There was hardly a dry eye in the room as everyone cheered. Grandma Linda and Eliza ran up to them and hugged them close.
“I’m so happy that you’re my granddaughter.” Grandma whispered in Lena’s ear, causing another cascade of joyful tears.
There were hugs and congratulations all around. James pulled Kara to the side.
“Hey, sorry for stepping on your toes earlier. Lucy was just so excited.”
“Dude, it’s okay.” Kara assured him. “Really. It is. I’m happy for you guys. But seriously, a fuckin’ spaceship could’ve landed in the back yard and it wouldn’t have stopped me from proposing today.”
James just laughed and gave her a hug. “Well, congrats then. I’m happy that you found someone like Lena. You two really are good for each other.”
Kara looked over at Lena and smiled. The ladies were fawning over the ring and Lena was in a full blush and radiating pure joy. Kara smiled softly.
“I still can’t believe she’s real.”
* * *
Lena couldn’t stop looking at the ring on her finger as she gently scratched at Kara’s scalp. They were on the couch cuddling, Kara laying with her head on her belly and her arms wrapped around her waist as they enjoyed the warm fire. Krypto was curled up on the floor sleeping.
“So…how was your first official Danvers family Christmas?” Kara’s voice was low in her chest as sleep threatened to carry her away.
“I’ll never forget it.” smiled Lena as she continued to play with Kara’s hair. “It was like a Hallmark movie, but…real.”
Kara chuckled. “I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard it described that way. Although, I will say that this Christmas was a liiiitle bit more gooey than usual. But the fun was a hundred percent the same.”
They lay in comfortable silence for a moment.
“Thank you. For everything.” Lena said softly.
“Of course. No problem.”
“No.” Lena sat up and pulled Kara up with her. “I’m serious, Kara. I mean everything.” she looked into her eyes. “When we first met I was just happy to have a friend who just saw me for me. Someone I had genuine fun with and wanted to spend time with. Someone who would not only be approved by Sam and Jack, but wouldn’t be intimidated by them either.”
Kara grinned. Lena continued.
“You showed me such kindness I never thought possible. And your family—” tears choked her words. “—your family was so accepting of me. We weren’t even dating and they welcomed me with open arms. And don’t even get me started on Grandma.” she held Kara’s hands. “You not only loved me but you stood up for me.” a deep sob wracked her body. “You protected me. I’ve never had a girlfriend do that, let alone remotely think of doing so. You’re my rock. Your heart is so full of empathy and compassion and light and it’s one of the many things I love about you. Every time the little voice in the back of my mind tells me that I’m not worth it, you just…silence it by looking at me like you do.”
“How do I look at you?”
“Like I’m your whole world.”
“’Cause you are.”
Lena smiled. “I love you, Kara Danvers. And I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”
She leaned in and held Kara’s face as she kissed her deeply. Kara’s hands clutched at her waist. Lena deepened the kiss and crawled into her lap and straddled it. Kara ran her hands up under Lena’s ugly Christmas sweater. Lena sighed into her touch as sparks skittered across her skin. She started to slowly grind her hips into Kara. Kara smirked and trailed her hands down until she was grabbing her ass and pushed Lena down into her lap. Lena whimpered at the pressure as their kisses became more frantic. Not wanting to wake up Krypto, Kara carefully stood up. Lena wrapped her legs around her waist as Kara held her tight. She kissed down Kara’s jaw and neck as Kara walked them to the bedroom and quietly closed the door. She fumbled briefly in the dark trying to find one of the bedside lamps before crawling onto the bed and laying Lena down. Their heated makeout session resumed. Lena tugged at the hem of Kara’s sweater. Kara sat up and yanked off both the sweater and white t-shirt underneath followed by her sports bra. Lena sat up and did the same before grabbing Kara by her shoulders and tugging her back down on top of her, moaning as their breasts touched. Kara grabbed both of Lena’s legs and hooked them around her hips as she started a slow grind into her. If Lena’s underwear wasn’t ruined before it was now. Kara kissed down her jaw to her neck, grazing her teeth across her favorite spot, Lena hissed at the sensation and bucked her hips against her. Kara worked her way down to her chest. Lena bit her lip and whimpered as Kara licked over a nipple, stiffening it, and then latched onto it. Lena thrust her chest into Kara’s mouth and threaded her hands through her hair. Kara lavished attention to Lena’s chest to the point that Lena felt like she was going to combust from the heat coursing through her body. Kara released a nipple with a wet pop and dragged her tongue down her sternum to her abdomen. She buried her face in Lena’s belly and lavished it with kisses. Lena lifted her hips as Kara hooked her fingers in the elastic of her leggings and underwear and dragged them down. She laughed as Kara dramatically took off her fuzzy socks one by one and threw them over her shoulder. Lena bit her lip seductively as she sat up and unceremoniously yanked Kara’s sweats and boxer briefs off. Kara tried to seductively finish taking them off but ended up getting tangled in her Clark Griswold themed knee socks and fell face-first into the mattress. Lena doubled over with laughter as she finished pulling off her sock.
“Goof!” laughed Lena.
Kara got a wild look in her eye, and now free from her socks, pounced on the bed and pinned Lena down in the way that she knew drove her wild. She started laughing.
“What?” said Lena.
“Oh nothing. Just about to make love to my fiancé for the first time.” Kara wagged her brows. “’Cause, I don’t know if you’ve heard but I totally got engaged to the most beautiful, perfect, amazing, loving woman today.”
“Mm.” Lena hummed. “What a coincidence. Me too. Though instead of beautiful I’d say that she is devastatingly handsome and quite dashing.”
Kara eased her grip on Lena’s wrists and relaxed into her, feeling her wetness coat her lower abdomen.
“I love you.”
“I love you too.”
Kara dipped down and softly kissed Lena. Their kisses turned from languid and deep to hot and hungry as Kara slipped a hand down between them. She swallowed Lena’s whimper as her fingers slid through copious arousal around her clit. The movements were slow and tortuous, building the fire and pressure coiled deep within Lena’s hips. Kara suddenly abandoned her lips and scooted down the bed. Before Lena could even protest the sudden loss of friction a hot tongue swiped through her. Lena gasped as her hips jolted up. Kara was relentless on her clit, occasionally dipping down to her entrance and fucking her with her tongue. Lena’s walls tried desperately to clench around her tongue to no avail.
“Kara. Please.” Lena begged.
Kara slipped in two fingers and started thrusting in time with her tongue. She was slow and methodical about it, turning Lena into a wriggling, whimpering, aching mess. Her own arousal was driving her mad, but she had a plan. When Lena started trying to grind her hips onto her face she stopped and came back up and hovered over her.
“I want to try something.”
“What?” panted Lena. “I’ll try anything. God, just please let me come.”
Kara kissed her. “I will. Just. Not yet.”
She crawled off the bed and got something out of the bottom drawer and held it up.
“Will you wear it?”
Lena suddenly got control of herself and sat up. “Are you sure?”
Kara nodded silently. “I’m ready. I’ve been thinking about it for a week now.”
“You have?” Lena took the harness from her.
“Yeah. Even did a test run of sorts.” Kara instantly blushed.
“You did?” Lena arched a dangerous brow. “When?”
“About two weeks ago. That night you got back late from the city.” admitted Kara. “The results were, uh, interesting.”
“How interesting are we talking?”
“Uh…” Kara was bright red now. “Probably on par with that one time on my bench.”
Lena’s brows were up to her hairline. “That’s saying something.”
“You’re tellin’ me.”
Lena put on the harness and Kara pulled out a bottle of lube before sitting on the bed. Lena generously coated the toy while Kara laid back and tried to calm her racing heart.
“What do you need me to do?” asked Lena.
Kara reached for her. “Come here.”
Lena crawled onto the bed and Kara spread her legs open. Lena hovered a moment to make sure that she was ready. Kara pulled her in for a kiss.
“Just give me a moment.” she said softly.
Lena nodded. “Okay.”
Kara closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Okay. Touch me first?”
Lena leaned her weight on one arm and reached down with the other. Kara’s eyes closed as she made contact with her clit. She took her time until Kara’s eyes opened again. She then bit her lip seductively and sucked the arousal off of her fingers.
“God, you taste so good.” she moaned.
That seemed to be what Kara needed to hear. She pulled Lena in for another kiss.
“Okay.” she said on her lips. “Just go slow.”
“Okay.”
Lena adjusted herself and the toy. She gently nudged at Kara’s entrance until just the tip was inside. Kara inhaled sharply through her nose.
“Darling? Are you okay?” worried Lena.
“I’m good. I’m good.” Kara breathed shakily. “Keep going.”
Lena started with shallow thrusts to get Kara used to the sensation. She slowly went deeper until she was almost to the hilt. Kara grabbed her hips to still them.
“Just stay a moment.”
Lena stayed still and rested her weight on Kara.
“Sorry I got you all worked up.” said Kara. “I just figured that if I got you worked up then it would get me worked up and then this would work out better.”
“You don’t have to apologize, Kara. I want to make you feel good, baby. And if this is what’s going to do it then I’m all for it.”
“Okay.” Kara kissed her again and opened her legs more. “You can go a little faster.”
Lena started moving her hips again at a moderate pace. Kara was taking the whole toy without complaint. Her eyes were searching Lena’s.
“What?” said Lena.
“I’ll let you know in a minute.”
Lena dipped her head down and started kissing Kara’s neck in the spot that both turned her on and tickled. Kara couldn’t help but smile as her body relaxed and she let herself sink into pleasure. Lena was keeping a slow and steady pace that didn’t leave her panting for breath and was taking full advantage of it by kissing Kara everywhere she could reach. It was working. Kara ran her hands down her back and pulled her closer.
“Faster.”
Lena briefly stopped for a moment to brace herself before picking up the pace. Kara grunted and pulled Lena’s face into her neck, relishing in the feeling of her breath on her neck. Lena surprised herself in her ability to keep up the pace for as long as she had and momentarily lost focus and had increased her speed. Quiet whimpers escaped Kara as much as she tried to hold them in. Lena felt as she started to grip the toy harder.
“Slower.” panted Kara. “But harder.”
Lena slowed her pace and snapped her hips forward particularly hard, eliciting a louder whimper from Kara.
“You don’t have to if you don’t want to—” panted Lena. “—but I like hearing you just as much as you like hearing me.”
Something deep inside Kara loosened at that. Her whimpers started to increase in volume and started to become more feminine. Lena ignored the burning in her abs and kept her pace as a silent thank you for Kara allowing herself to be vulnerable with her in this way yet again.
Kara couldn’t believe how much she was actually enjoying the sensation of the toy inside her. It was so much more than when she tried it herself and she knew it had everything to do with who it was attached to. She felt herself start to get even more turned on as she heard her own involuntary whimpers.
“Are you going to come for me?” Lena panted in her ear.
“Fuck!” was all Kara was able to get out as her arousal suddenly skyrocketed.
Lena smiled to herself. “Is my big strong butch Supergirl going to show me how she comes?”
Kara once again found herself surprised at how her body reacted and clenched harder around the toy. She was racing towards the cliff as heat started in her toes and worked its way up towards her head.
“Harder.” she gasped.
Lena obliged and dug in. It was the hardest she had done this in a long time but she knew the soreness in the morning was going to be thoroughly worth it. Kara brought her legs up and let them drop open further. Part of her was still having trouble registering that this was, in fact, not only happening to her, but that it felt more amazing than she ever thought possible.
“I’m gonna come.” she gasped.
“Come for me, Supergirl.” Lena panted.
Kara pulled Lena from her neck and looked her straight in the eye. Her brow furrowed as her jaw dropped open. The veins in her neck strained as a strangled cry caught in her chest. Lena slowed her hips when Kara finally was able to breathe again. She languidly thrusted as Kara came down from her orgasm until Kara grabbed her hips again to still them.
“Holy shit.” her chest was heaving.
“Thank you.” panted Lena. “I know it’s not easy for you to be vulnerable like that.”
Kara kissed her. “It’s only because you’re so patient and understanding.” she panted.
“So how was it?”
“Good. It’s not going to be an ‘every time’ thing, but often enough.” said Kara. “Still a mood thing but a more often mood thing. If that makes sense.”
“Perfect sense.” Lena kissed her.
Kara gently pushed Lena off of her. “Okay. Your turn. Take that off.”
Lena got up on slightly shaky legs and took the harness off.
“Bed.” instructed Kara.
Lena got on the bed. Kara pulled out her favorite attachment from the drawer and put it on before slipping on the harness.
“You’re not too sensitive?” said Lena.
“Nope.” Kara crawled onto the bed with a look in her eye that sent shivers down Lena’s spine.
“I hope you don’t mind—”
Lena actually felt a little thrill of fear as Kara dropped her voice and pointedly grabbed each of her wrists.
“—but I don’t just want to make love to you now. If that’s alright with you.”
She closed her iron grip and moved Lena’s arms over her head and pinned them to the bed.
“Depends.” Lena’s voice was shaky. “What did you have in mind?”
Kara pinned her with a heated gaze. “You gave me what I wanted, now I think I want to return the favor.”
Lena’s heart skipped a beat.
“I do believe that tipsy Lena once confessed something to me that I found rather…intriguing.”
Lena knew exactly where this was going as it happened after their conversation about kids. She decided that two could play this game. She smiled wickedly.
“I see. Mm.” she hummed low in her chest. “Something tells me that you’ve been thinking about this too. And by the looks of it are just as intrigued as I am.”
Kara smirked and broke character. “Fuck yeah! I didn’t even realize that this was, like, a kink or whatever. But thanks to Google I’m now almost painfully aware.”
Lena chuckled low in her chest. “Depending on how this goes for the both of us there’s a special toy we could get.”
“Oh, I know all about it. But, um, I’m just not too sure I’m comfortable with that level of realism. The whole dysphoria thing, ya know?”
“That’s okay. One thing at a time. And if it never becomes a ‘thing’ that’s okay too.”
Kara turned bright red. “There’s, uh, there’s one more thing.”
Lena’s eyes flashed. “Do tell.”
“So, uh, there was another conversation we had prior to that one.” Kara was all sorts of flustered and Lena had a good idea where this was going. “Now, um. I might have done a little exploring on my own again. And while it yield crazy shocking results, I still don’t think I’m ready. However, I can see where you’re coming from and would love to…you know…do that for you. But you’re gonna have to kinda walk me through it.”
The already roaring fire inside Lena’s belly suddenly became almost uncomfortable as she felt her arousal drip down her leg at the thought.
“Okay.” Lena nodded. “Just let me go into the bathroom for a moment?”
Kara released her. Lena got up and went into the bathroom. Kara didn’t know quite what to do with herself do she just went over to the window and looked out at the pristine snow glittering in the moonlight. After a minute or two Lena came back out.
“Okay.”
Kara nervously came back over to her. “What first?”
Lena smiled and kissed her. “I think the best way for this, at least for now, is for you to take me from behind.”
Kara’s ears burned. “O-okay.”
Lena laughed. “Look at that. I got Supergirl all flustered.”
“Oh, so you want Supergirl to take you?” Kara stood tall. She grabbed Lena’s waist firmly. “You like it when I use my strength?”
Lena felt her knees go weak. “Maybe.”
Kara picked up a screaming Lena and easily tossed her onto the bed. “Like that?”
She jumped on the bed and kissed her passionately as Lena touched herself.
“Fuck me.” she panted against Kara’s lips.
Kara sat up and grabbed Lena’s hips, hauling her up and flipping her over. Lena gasped and pushed her hips back against Kara, feeling the slick toy rub over her ass. Kara held her in place as she lined up the toy and slowly pressed in, giving Lena the chance to adjust. She moaned at how easily the toy slipped in. She started a moderate pace.
Lena knew that she had been close but the way that her stomach clenched told her just how close she was.
“Shit! I’m already close.”
Kara slowed to a much more languid pace. Lena fumbled for the lube bottle next to her and reached back to give it to Kara.
“Already?” said Kara.
“Yes.”
Kara took the bottle. “Uh…where—”
“I don’t care.” Lena bit back a moan. “Just put it anywhere.”
Kara flipped the top and spread Lena’s ass before squirting a healthy amount over it. She snapped the top and tossed it to the side. She smoothed her hands over Lena’s back and hips before moving to her ass. She squeezed it a couple of times before moving her hand over. She took a moment to gather herself before deciding to slowly push the tip of her thumb in a yet unexplored area.
Lena inhaled sharply.
“Shit! Did I hurt you?” Kara froze.
“No! No. Green.” rushed Lena.
Kara eased her thumb in farther in time with her thrusts. Lena blindly reached behind to grab her hips.
“Harder.” she whined.
Kara snapped her hips forward harder and picked up the pace. She bit her lip as she move her thumb in time. Lena’s arms threatened to give out as she cried out in pleasure. Lena felt her entire body clench but didn’t want it to end yet. With the added feel of her thumb it felt like Kara was deeper than ever.
“Fuck!” Lena cried out.
Kara felt her arousal start to ramp back up with every sound Lena was making and the harness attachment was hitting the right spot.
Fire was racing up and down Lena’s spine as she moaned through a powerful release.
“Oh, shit!” gasped Kara as she felt Lena spasm around her.
Lena’s arms gave out. “Yellow!” her voice muffled by a pillow.
Kara slowed to a stop and carefully removed her thumb. “Holy shit, Lena.”
Lena panted a laugh. “Told you.”
“Yeah, you weren’t kidding.” Kara rubbed her other hand over her hip.
She gently pulled out and Lena collapsed onto the bed.
“I’m gonna wash my hand.” Kara went into the bathroom.
Lena rolled over to catch her breath.
“Think you could go again?” Kara called from the bathroom.
“Always.” panted Lena. “Just give me a second. Did you?”
“No.” Kara came back into the room. “I was able to hold off.”
“Good. Come here.”
Kara got back in bed and Lena started making out with her again as her arousal slowly ticked back up. She cupped Kara’s breasts and rolled her nipples in her fingers and Kara moaned.
“Put it in.” she said on Kara’s lips.
Kara lined herself up and slipped in the toy with ease. She started with a faster pace this time.
“I really do want kids.” she grunted.
Lena bit back a whine. “Me too.”
Kara took a chance and went with it. “I wish there was some way I could get you pregnant.”
Lena responded by pulling her in for a fierce kiss. “I’d do it in a heartbeat.”
“You want me to put a baby in you?”
“Yes.” Lena hissed as she dragged her nails down Kara’s back.
“You want me to come inside you?” Kara picked up her pace.
“Fuck!” Lena cried out as she bracketed her legs around her hips. “Yes! God, yes!”
Kara let herself moan in pleasure as the attachment was hitting her clit in just the right way. She didn’t know exactly why but the thought of actually being able to get Lena pregnant was driving her wild.
“Faster!” gasped Lena as she reached down and swiped at her clit.
Kara dug in and drove her hips harder and faster, chasing both her own orgasm and Lena’s. She felt the familiar heat starting at the base of her spine and rising up through her head and out of her chest. As she locked gazes with Lena she could tell she was feeling it too.
“I’m close.” Kara panted.
Lena’s brow furrowed and her jaw dropped. “Me too.”
“I’m gonna come inside you.”
“Come inside me.”
“Fuck, baby!”
“Come for me, Supergirl.”
Kara felt the orgasm rip through her body, causing her hips to stutter. Lena dug her nails in, encouraging her to keep going. Seconds later her cries filled the bedroom as a powerful orgasm rocked her body. After nearly thirty minutes of effort Kara’s legs gave out and she collapsed onto Lena. Both were breathing hard and were sweaty. She mustered up some strength and carefully pulled out and rolled over. Lena threw her leg over Kara’s and snuggled up to her.
“Fuck. Okay.” Kara’s chest heaved. “That was insanely hot.”
“Understatement.” Lena kissed her. “For a second there it felt like it might be possible.”
Kara wrapped her arm around her. “After are PetCo date tomorrow I think we should seriously sit down and talk.”
“Okay.” Lena’s eyes started to close as sleep was creeping up on her.
Kara carefully moved her and got up to take off the harness before crawling back into bed and pulling the heavy blankets up and around them both. Lena snuggled closer and kissed her.
“I love you.”
Kara held her close. “I love you too.”
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Nearly 10 Months Later…
Hot tears streamed down her face. Lena could hardly hold it in as joyful sobs wracked her body. Krypto cocked his head and tried to climb up on her lap from under her desk to comfort his mom. Lena looked at the picture on her desk. It was taken on their wedding day. Her dress was flowing behind her in the warm May breeze. Kara had told her she looked more beautiful than Galadriel the moment before the picture was taken, resulting in Lena smiling and laughing brightly while Kara looked at her with all the love in her heart. Kara was wearing a deep navy blue suit with accented red jewel tones and gold that matched with those in Lena’s dress.
Lena looked back down at the positive pregnancy test sitting on her desk. Kara was thankfully in the shop working on her latest orders, leaving Lena to her own work in her private lab—with Krypto supervising of course. The last nine months had been a rollercoaster of emotion. They started looking for donors before New Year’s and searching out the best fertility specialist in National City while simultaneously planning the wedding. The wedding ended up being a simple affair in the back yard surrounded by family, including the ever-reserved Lillian who managed to shed a tear or two. There had been monthly dinners with Lillian as well that had resulted in a slowly healing relationship between her and Lena. They still had a long way to go and there was no certainty if they would make it, but Lena took what she could get. They had also done egg retrieval for both of them. Kara’s had not gone quite so well and she had a hard recovery time but in the end they ended up with seven viable embryos between the two of them, three from Kara and four from Lena. The donor process had taken longer than their wedding planning, but in the end they managed to find blonde hair and blue eyes for Lena and dark hair and green eyes for Kara. Their first transfer had resulted in a miscarriage about a week later and it had left Lena devastated. It was enough that Kara had had a serious talk with her about starting the fertility treatments for herself and being the one to carry. But Lena had insisted that they try one more time and do two embryos. The doctor was hesitant but in the end they did two. Lena had waited until a month after the transfer to take her first test. When it came back positive she didn’t believe it. Fortunately, she had told Kara she wanted to wait until closer to two months, so when she took five more tests a week later that showed positive, she knew it was for real. She had kept all of the tests and wrote the dates on them and set up a secret ultrasound with Alex. After a few minutes of happy tears between the two of them the pregnancy was one hundred percent confirmed. And now as Lena sat in her office looking at the original test she wanted to surprise Kara more than ever.
She was planning everything with Alex. Kara’s birthday was coming up so they were going to use it as an excuse to bring everyone together like the previous Fourth of July party. Fortunately, Oliver and Sara would be off-duty this time around and Ryan and Sophie were still going to be able to make it from Gotham. Somehow Lena had even managed to wrangle Lillian into coming, telling her that “this is what families do for each other”. It had worked.
Lena managed to get ahold of herself and put away the test back in its bag in her desk drawer and went back to work. On top of the pregnancy and everything else, her nanobots were in their first clinical trial stage and she was up to her eyes in work, but loving it. She knew that there was still plenty more testing that needed to be done and repeated but the early results were very promising.
* * *
Kara was a sweaty mess in her dirt bike gear as she stood smiling in front of the picnic table at the track. Lucy was casually nursing her son while she talked to Ava and Felicity who each had their own daughters on their hips. Suddenly, everyone started singing “Happy Birthday” to her as Lena brought in a sheet cake that was strategically covered.
“Sorry there’s no candles.” Alex leaned over to her sister. “My fault.”
Kara waved it off. “It’s okay. I’m more concerned about the cake.”
Alex laughed. Lena’s heart was hammering out of her chest as she set the cake in front of Kara.
“Happy Birthday, darling!” she took off the cover.
Kara kissed her. “Thanks, babe.”
She then looked down at the cake and her face changed in a blink from happiness to pure shock as she read the icing.
“Happy Birthday, Momma?” she blinked. “Wait. What’s—”
She leaned in to look at the picture that was printed on the cake in black and white. Her head whipped so fast to look at Lena she nearly got whiplash.
“Is-is that what I think it is?” her eyes were wide.
Lena smiled through her happy tears and nodded as everyone crowded around the table to look at the picture.
“You’re pregnant?!” exclaimed Kara.
“Yes!”
Kara swept Lena up in a hug and spun her around as she cried happy tears of her own.
“Is that twins?!” exclaimed Winn as he got a better look at the sonogram.
Kara put Lena down and her eyes somehow had grown impossibly wider.
“It is!” shouted Eliza. “Look! Baby A and Baby B! Grandma again times two!”
Kara started peppering Lena with kisses. “I love you! I love you! I love you!”
Grandma Linda and Eliza both ran over and hugged Lena as everyone congratulated them.
* * *
Lena moaned low and guttural in her chest as she bent over the bed and swayed side to side as Kara massaged her lower back. She was a week overdue and extremely uncomfortable. They had tried everything on Alex’s list to induce labor so that she could still have a home birth and nothing had worked. But Kara wouldn’t give up. Lena had created a meticulous home birth plan and she wanted to do everything she could to stick to it. She had suggested they try the list one more time and what ended up triggering it was a simple heavy makeout session.
That was twenty hours ago.
Alex had come and gone over the hours as the labor progressed slowly but over the last hour Lena’s water had finally broke and she was rapidly progressing.
“Lena? I’m going to check your progress again. Okay?” said Alex as she put on a glove.
Lena just nodded and continued to moan. “Shit. Here comes another.”
Alex checked while Kara looked at her watch.
“We’re at like, a minute now.” announced Kara. “You’re doing so good, baby. So good.”
“You’re fully effaced and dilated.” said Alex. “If you’re ready I want you to try to push on the next one. Okay?”
Lena nodded. “Okay.” she panted.
“You can do this.” Kara kissed her shoulder. “I’m right here.”
Alex went about setting up the plastic and drape under Lena’s feet and readied the blankets and her equipment.
“Here it comes.” Lena grunted.
“Okay, push, Lena.” Kara held on to her hand.
Lena strained as she pushed.
“I can feel the head.” announced Alex. “Okay, Lena, I want you to go as slow as you can. Okay? It will help keep you from tearing.”
Sweat poured off of Lena’s brow and Kara wiped it. “Okay.” she panted.
The next contraction came and Lena did her best to not push at full strength. She yelled out at the stretching pain.
“Good, Lena, good!” coached Alex. “Okay. Next one will do it.”
Lena held on for dear life to Kara’s hand while Kara helped hold her up. She kissed her sweaty forehead.
“You can do this, baby. You’re doing so well. Just a little more. I love you so much. You can do this.”
The next contraction came and Lena bore down, nearly squatting.
“The head’s out!” shouted Alex. “Keep going!”
Lena strained as she felt the shoulders pass. Her chest heaved as she sucked in breaths. The sound of a baby crying filled the bedroom.
“It’s a girl!” announced Alex.
Kara met Lena’s gaze. “A girl! We have a little girl!”
They both started to cry.
“Momma Kara, you want to cut the cord?” asked Alex.
“Yes.” Kara helped Lena lean against the bed as she dropped to her knees. Alex was wrapping the baby in a blanket.
“Here.” she smiled and handed her niece to Kara.
Kara couldn’t believe that she was holding her daughter in her arms. “She’s so beautiful, Lena.”
Alex prepped the cord and Kara cut it and then stood up to show Lena their daughter. Lena cried at the mess of black hair and blue eyes.
“She’s so beautiful.” Lena cried.
She kissed her crying daughter.
“Lena? I’m going to check for baby two, okay?”
“Okay.”
“Alright. I’m not feeling anything yet. We might have a few minutes.”
Kara opened the blanket and Lena took her baby and laid her on her chest for skin to skin contact. It didn’t take long for the crying to stop. A tearful Kara kissed her.
“You’re so amazing. I love you so much.”
Alex stood up and smiled. “You guys have any names picked out?”
Lena looked at Kara and shared a smile. “Elizabeth. After my mother.”
“Elizabeth Luthor-Danvers.” smiled Alex. “I like it.”
About ten minutes later the entire process repeated while Lizzy was snuggled in her crib that Kara had built herself.
“Another girl!” Alex announced proudly.
Kara got to cut the cord again and put little blonde-haired, green-eyed Lori Luthor-Danvers on Lena’s chest while she recovered. Happy tears wouldn’t stop flowing. A few minutes later Lena delivered both placentas—thankfully intact—and Alex had her get in bed, with sufficient padding, and started to massage her uterus some to help slow the bleeding. Kara got out the breast feeding pillows and helped prop up both twins while Lena attempted to breast feed for the first time. After some trial and error both babies thankfully latched and were suckling away. Kara kissed Lena.
“You were amazing. I love you so much.” she kissed her again. “You are a total goddess. Really, you are.”
“I love you too.”
After several hours of much needed sleep, all of their family and friends arrived to see the girls. Grandma Linda couldn’t believe that she was a great-grandma all over again and Eliza was just as excited. Even Lillian had driven up from the city and held the girls. She stated very firmly that she was not to be called “grandma” but was fine with “nana”. Kara fought every instinct to make a “GILF” joke for fear of retribution not only from Lillian, but from her wife.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
5 Years Later…
“I’ll be there in about five minutes.”
“Great!” smiled Lena. “I’ll be ready.”
She rushed around the penthouse making her final arrangements. Kara had thought that they were going to go out for the night but Lena had other plans. She waited by the door. Kara finally arrived and came in. She was wearing the maroon tailored suit that Lena had bought for her all those years ago. It still hugged her like a glove in all the right ways, showing off her muscular frame, and Lena found that her mouth still watered and a throbbing started between her legs.
“Wow. Babe. This is amazing!” said Kara.
The entire penthouse was decked out in candles—battery operated so as to not set off the fire alarm with the sheer volume of candles. The table had been set with a white table cloth and polished silverware and fine china. Dinner was being kept warm in the oven and on the stove. Lena had ordered from Kara’s favorite steakhouse and managed to get sticky buns from Noonan’s as well. Champagne was chilling in an ice bucket.
“And you look gorgeous.” Kara’s eyes raked over her.
Lena was wearing Kara’s favorite black dress that was off the shoulder and exposed miles of pale skin on her chest and neck. Her hair was swept back into a conservative but stylish bun.
“Happy anniversary.” Lena smiled. “Many anniversaries, actually.”
Kara kissed her. She wasn’t wrong. Not only was it their wedding anniversary, but it was also the anniversary of the day they met and the day that Kara had opened her first-ever custom furniture store in National City—which was practically an overnight success like Lena had said all those years ago. The twins’ birthday was also just two weeks shy so they counted it too.
“How was the store?” asked Lena.
“Good.” Kara pulled her into her arms and kissed her. “Got a bunch of new orders. Jess is doing a wonderful job managing the place. She said there’s enough work that I should hire an apprentice and open up a second store.”
“Wow. You thinking of doing it?”
Kara shrugged. “Maybe. I don’t know. I think we got our hands pretty full right now. Two kids. New-ish business. Your nanobot stuff with L-Corp.”
“Well, I’m with you whatever you decide.” said Lena. “And my mother is more than willing to take the girls for a weekend if need be.”
Kara laughed. “We should probably take advantage of that at least once. Since that’s all we’ll probably get. I know your mother could handle corporate craziness but two five year olds hopped up on sugar are a whole different ball game.”
Lena laughed too. “At least she’s trying.”
“Yes she is.”
They kissed. Kara looked at Lena with a familiar look.
“You know, sometimes I can’t believe that all of this is real.” she smiled softly. “You. The shop. The girls. Everything.”
Lena hung her arms around Kara’s neck. “I know what you mean.”
Kara smiled lopsidedly. “You were completely, totally, entirely worth the thirty-two year wait.”
“So were you.” Lena smiled back and kissed her. “Do you think our alternate universe selves ever got together?”
Kara thought about it a moment and got a fluttery feeling in her heart. “Can’t confirm it but I’m pretty sure they did. Sometimes even superheroes need a nudge.”
Lena chuckled. “I wish I could have seen what you did.”
“Me too.” said Kara. “I think you guys would have really gotten along. You’d finally have someone that can give your genius the challenge it truly deserves.”
Lena barked a laugh. “Maybe for my next project I could study the multiverse theory and make it a reality.”
“That would be seriously so cool. I never got to ask Other Kara how she got her powers. I wonder if I could get them too.”
“Another dream for another day.” Lena grabbed her lapels and pulled her in for a kiss.
“I love you, Lena Luthor. In this universe and every other.” Kara touched her forehead to Lena’s.
“I love you, Kara Danvers. In this reality and any other, Supergirl.”
Notes:
Finished! *phew* Now back to work on my original wlw fantasy series. If anyone is interested it's going to be based off of my already established original fic trilogy on here "Descended" (Dragon's Claws, Fire, Soul). I'm hoping I will be finished with the MASSIVE rewrite (including expanding the mythos/lore and world) sometime in March next year (2023). It will also be 5 books instead of 3. Feel free to follow me on twitter if you want since that's where I will post the link once it's all live. Otherwise check Amazon (should be all markets) in March. The first book is Descended: Dragon's Shadow. Thanks!
@SupaSaiyanSilvr
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