Kara stood there in the middle of the living area thinking. Mon-El had come in, kissed her on the cheek and went off to relieve himself, and yet she had barely moved. Her mind was too busy replaying the events that had transpired between herself and Lena just minutes ago. She kept thinking of the way Lena had looked at her, eyes so mesmerizing and penetrating that a mere glance could char one to the bone. Lena's mouth had pressed against hers with such fervor that she could detect every feeling, every emotion, the brunette intended to convey. That mouth had blended with her own in ways that not only made her aware of desires long buried, but that gave her a sense of unity and belonging. She felt in sync with Lena. At home. And standing here dazed and enraptured by that knowledge was sobering. She needed answers.

Picking her glasses up off the floor, she headed out the front door. She didn't hear Mon-El entering.

"Kar? Hey, Kar?" he said, coming from the backyard's outhouse and holding up his britches. "Know where more corncobs are? We're out. I used 'em up again, but I promise to get more. Or some soft paper; that might be better." He stepped farther into the room, looking around. "Kara?"

Only the wind blowing against the open front door was left to answer.

IIII

Kara didn't wait to enter once Sara opened the door. She pushed past the blonde, briefly looking around the woman's cabin. Sara had acquired it as a gift from Lar and Rhea before they'd threatened Lena with talk of unscrupulousness. Sara had considered getting another place to show that she didn't agree with their latest actions, but Lena had brushed it off, and so had Kara.

It was Sara who'd been there for her during the weeks she'd tried to be Mon-El's everything and had shut Lena out. They'd visit each other, talk about how to make their lives easier, and hunt when Kara wasn't busy smithing or tending to Mon-El's needs. It was Sara who had advised her on trying to find some semblance of peace with Mon-El while also advising her to come to her senses and realize that a union with him ultimately wasn't going to work unless she was resigned to be unhappy for the rest of her life. It was Sara who'd pushed her toward embracing her true desires.

Sighing, Kara turned to the woman. "Why didn't ya tell me it'd be like this?"

Sara closed the door, looking to Kara curiously. "Well, hello to you too," she said, scoffing. "Am I to guess what it is you're talking about?"

"Kissin'..." Kara paused, a blush tainting her cheeks as she waved her hands around erratically "...and all that other stuff."

Sara laughed. She moved to grab a knife off the wall, before looking over her shoulder at Kara. "So I take it you and Lena did the deed."

"What?" Kara spluttered, her blush deepening. "Nu-oh."

Sara moved to the kitchen table and began sharpening her knife, lifting her head a few seconds later and raising an eyebrow, clearly suggesting that Kara continue.

"We were holding each other real close and -"

"- You've kissed Lena before."

Kara shook her from side to side. "Not like that."

Sara chuckled. "She used tongue, I see."

Kara bowed her head in embarrassment, going to take a seat at the table. "I never felt anything like that. It stirred thangs."

"I bet." Sara smirked.

"Just - will you be frank with me? All we did was kiss, but I think we came close to doin' more."

A grin spread across Sara's lips. "I wouldn't want to spoil you."

"Sara..." Kara offered one of her pleading looks. It always worked on her family, and on Winn, and she'd come to discover that it worked on Sara too.

"All right," Sara sighed, halting her work with a thoughtful look. "You see what I'm doing now?"

"Sharpening yer knife?"

"I'm preparing to hunt me some squirrel. Corner it and then go in for the kill. That's sort of what Lena is doing with you."

Kara scratched her forehead, the action indicating a detour in her train of thought.

Sara batted the blonde's hand away, undeterred. "Who was on top?"

"Lena."

"See?!" Sara exclaimed, her hand triumphantly slamming against the table.

"I... Huh?" Kara's eyebrows furrowed.

"Right now, she's doing the chasing. She's got you all flustered. You have to chase her too. Where I want to kill the squirrel, Lena wants to catch it."

Kara nodded in a perturbed manner. "I'm the squirrel?"

"Yep."

Kara took a moment to consider this. A squirrel? Something to give chase to? Was Lena in it for the thrill? A conquest of sorts? No, she decided. She had seen the sincerity in those green eyes. And the woman's proposal meant a lifetime of commitment. "Well, I don't think Lena just wants to catch me."

"You're right." Sara picked up her knife and pointed it at Kara. "She also wants to keep you."

Kara shook head confusedly. "Can we stop makin' the squirrel comparison now?"

Sara shrugged, going back to sharpening her knife. "If you want. Was a fine metaphor, if you ask me."

"Just tell me what to expect." Kara needed to know. The erotic painting and photographs Sara had given her were eye-opening in the sense that Kara had felt something stir low in her belly when looking at them, and she'd pictured what it would be like to touch any of those women in ways she'd become curious about, but she was still missing so much. The painting and photographs had been in black and white while Lena was a breathing, in-color person she could interact with.

Sara didn't respond at first. She just kept perfecting her blade. After a few minutes, she got up to get a small rag and dab it with polish.

"Sara, I'm no youngin. Just tell me."

Sara's shoulders dropped. "Like I said, I don't want to spoil you. It's more fun finding out about these things on your own. I wouldn't want Lena killing me for clouding your viewpoint. All pairings have their own flow." She turned to Kara with a pensive look. "But I suppose I can tell you a few things, and so Lena's not always in control." She moved to Kara and whispered in her ear as if saying anything out loud was too scandalous, all the while holding up two fingers in front of Kara's face and changing the motions of the digits.

This time when Kara blushed and her eyes widened due to whispers against her ear, it had nothing to do with a pull toward the one doing the whispering.

IIII

It was hours later when Kara looked up at the ceiling in her bedroom. The moonlight filtered in, and she was in slight awe of the way the light and shadows played against each other. She'd returned home to a rambling Mon-El; her betrothed had gone on about her leaving without letting him know where she'd be, and something about corncobs. She didn't know what he'd been so worried about it. It's not like she'd never been out without him.

Except, recently, she hadn't. Minus the times Sara had convinced him to let her have some time with a friend, she'd been with him every time she'd stepped out. It was like he was deathly afraid of something happening to her. Or rather...deathly afraid of something intimate happening between her and Lena. Something like what happened earlier in the day.

She put her hands under her head, watching a particularly funny-looking shadow. It resembled a face, horrified by whatever had spooked it. Kara supposed that that's what all three of them — Mon-El, Lena and herself — felt like inside. They all had something to lose no matter the pairing. If she stayed with Mon-El, she wouldn't be happy. And neither would Lena. If she chose Lena, Mon-El would be heartbroken, and it would put her family in jeopardy; Lena might also lose her job and be subject to god knows what by the town.

As she thought about it further, she couldn't settle on what betrothed even meant. It's not like she'd ever had a choice in the matter, or that she and Mon-El had ever acted like a couple until recently. She knew about people in other parts of the world getting to choose, or at least consult with their parents about, their spouse. But her fate had been decided by her birth parents before she was even born. She suddenly had a bitter taste in her mouth regarding that decision. It was a decision she'd had no part in, and was now dictating how she should live. It made her want to see Lena all the more.

Abruptly, footsteps sounded nearby and she looked toward the entrance. Rising on an elbow, her heart sped up as she saw a light, no doubt from a lamp or lantern, and foot shadows at the slit beneath the door. She'd been dreading Mon-El trying to seek her out at night. The thought of sleeping with him, whether married or not, put her off. Surely he wouldn't try to force her? She watched with bated breath as the foot shadows lingered for another minute before disappearing. She fell back against her bed with a heavy sigh. She knew now what she would decide.

IIII

Lena opened the door. A part of her harbored a sense of dread, for if Kara was standing in front of her door in broad daylight with a bouquet of brilliantly white flowers, it may very well be to wish her goodbye. But another, larger part of her hoped that Kara was here with happier news, and so she smiled. "Kara," she breathed.

"These are for you," Kara said, handing her the flowers. "I remember you like these kind. You like a lot different kinds, but, yeah."

Lena laughed. "That I do." She accepted the bouquet from Kara's fingers. "But there are a few I'm especially fond of. These are Anemone hepatica. You know...some believe they can treat certain ailments. And also -"

"- I accept your proposal," Kara said.

To Lena, it was clear that any other time, Kara would be interested in hearing all about the history behind an item, but that all the blonde wanted to do right now was let her know of the wish to be with her. And this overwhelmed Lena; she felt more joy in this moment than she ever thought possible. She hadn't even realized she'd pulled Kara into a tight hug, their bodies achingly close, until she breathed in Kara's intoxicating scent. She stared at the beautiful, tan neck sprouting shiny blond hair.

"But," Kara said, pulling back and clearing her throat as though flustered, "only if you can promise me that my folks will be awright."

"I can," Lena affirmed.

They stood there, awkward and lingering, before Lena remembered herself. "Well, shall we?"

They entered slowly. Lena racked her brain for anything to say, to break the tension, but Kara spun her around before she could. She could see the want in those blue eyes as the blonde's lips moved toward hers, but she knew they couldn't do this here. Not right now. "Kara," she said, holding the blonde a safe distance away, "I have company."

Kara's head bowed a little, almost as if defeated. "Siobhan is here."

"She's asleep upstairs," Lena confirmed, hesitantly leading them into the living area.

Kara appeared to accept the reality of their situation, but her eyes still reflected the truth of what she'd rather be doing. It made Lena flush. The memory of Kara's mouth, the way it tasted, and Kara's hands on her, were still very fresh. The woman looked around with much interest, which Lena concluded was in part to ease their interaction and part genuine surprise. She must not had paid much attention to the changes the last time she was here, when they'd been at Lar's mercy.

"You've changed the place."

"Siobhan did. Just a little."

Kara's gaze drifted toward the small desk with two chairs at opposite ends in the center of the room. Her expression indicated that she recognized the game set atop it. "Chess?"

Lena's eyes widened in surprise. "You're familiar with the game?"

"A bit." Kara shrugged. "There were these two old men who always used to play outside my blacksmith shop while waitin' for whatever service they'd requested. I learned some of the plays from them. They played for about five years, on and off. Eventually, they stopped venturin' into town, but I always wondered what happened to 'em."

Lena smiled. "I'm glad you know of it." She gestured toward the table. "It's quite the romantic game, you know."

Kara arched a brow. "And you've been playing this 'romantic game' with Siobhan?"

"And with Sam," Lena confessed.

Both of Kara's eyebrows rose.

"But not in the way you're making it sound," Lena chuckled. "Come on." She walked to the desk, pulling out a chair. "We can play while we discuss our situation."

"You're close with Sam now?" Kara moved to sit.

"She was there for me. The others too."

Kara nodded guiltily. It was clear to the both of them that their separation hadn't been easy for Lena either and that 'the others' meant Lena's other employees, as well as Siobhan.

Lena set the board, the both of them stealing glances as the quiet continued to creep up on them as it so often did.

"I don't wanna talk about our current situation," Kara admitted. "Not directly anyhow. We can talk about that tomorrow."

"Then what do you want to talk about?"

"You. If we're to do this marriage thang, then I wanna know more about you. The adult you."

Lena sat back, eyes watching Kara curiously. "Well, since you know all the big stuff already, I assume you want to know the minor things? You've known my favorite color since forever."

"Red, yes," Kara stated, clearly set on attaining more information. "But I don't mean stuff like that. I mean everythang."

"Everything?"

"Everythang."

Lena folded her arms across her chest and looked to the board. She already knew what move she wanted to make, but it also depended on accurately anticipating Kara's play. "That isn't simply something revealed in a day's time," she finally said, gaze meeting Kara's.

"Still," Kara replied, sounding resolute, "we can start today."

Lena sat up straight, hands clasping before her. "Okay then. But I get to ask you things too."

Kara nodded her agreement.

"Make your first move." Lena gestured to the board. "And make it good."

"I thought you said the game is romantic."

"Well," Lena explained, "only in the sense that it was sometimes used as a social function to allow young men and women to meet with the goal of romance at the game's end. It was used as an excuse by daughters to woo men to their bedchambers." Her eyes momentarily found Kara's. The use of the term bedchambers hung in the air like a mouth-watering aroma refusing to let up. "But," she continued, "the game was not mostly about that. Players sacrificed pieces for the sake of introducing tactical complications to get a lead in development, and there was always a sudden attack, with the opponent being mated with a flourish. It was only earlier this decade that the game became more strategic with long-term planning." She leaned on her elbows and tightened the grip of her clasped hands. "Because of this, I'd wager it's the former style of play you witnessed."

Kara hummed, not seeming to fully digest everything Lena was divulging. "If you say so." She moved a piece.

Lena's mouth fell slightly open. Kara had chosen The King's Gambit. It always was one of the most hostile openings at White's command. It surrendered a pawn and revealed the White king at the same time on Move 2 in exchange for swift development. If Lena was not watchful with Black, White could have a quick checkmate. But she was too experienced for that.

Kara was looking at her with a self-satisfied smirk. "So...what type of books you enjoy readin'?"

"Scientific. Mathematical. Philosophical. Astronomical. Poetry. A little bit of everything, really."

Kara raised an eyebrow. "Guess you have a hungry mind. You always did." She pushed her spectacles back up on her face, ever studying the board.

"Suppose so. But this isn't about our youngest selves, right? So let's try not to compare." Lena knew that the thrust 3…d5 was championed as the best route to equality for Black, but Kara was still determined to give her hell. The blonde played 8. h4!? Be7 9. h5 10. Nd5!?. "You still afraid of irregular patterns of holes?" Lena asked.

"I am, but only if they look like disease or skin. You still 'fraid of worms?"

"Very much so." She chanced a glance at Kara. "What relaxes you? I don't think it's still climbing trees. Is it still visiting the lake - our lake? Skipping rocks?"

"Smithing and being in my own head," Kara responded, eyes still surveying the board. "Thinkin' about all the places I've never been to and have never seen. It's not as somber as it sounds, though. And don't get me wrong; I pay attention to my work, but I can really lose myself in it. Ya know?"

Lena did know. Losing herself in her work is what had helped her get through being shut out by Kara.

"But lately," Kara continued, "being around you relaxes me."

Lena paused. She felt her body warm at the admittance, and looked up at the blonde. But Kara was still focused on the board. Lena tried to decipher the woman's strategy. 10…Bg5?! would lead to bleak terrain after 11. h6! Nxf3+ 12. Bxf3 0-0! 13. d4!. Kara was still down a pawn and appeared to have barely any reimbursement after 13. Nxe3 fxe3 14 d5 Nb4 15. a3 Na6 16. Bxe3 0-0, with Kara's king more exposed than the Black equivalent. "You relax me too, Kara," Lena confessed.

"Have you always known you were..." Kara let the question hang in the air as she drummed up significant pressure on the long diagonal after 17…Bg4?!

There was a soothing flow to the room as they played more moves. Lena eventually consolidated and went on the attack. "No," she finally answered and looked up at Kara. "But once I understood - truly understood - I couldn't stop thinking about making my way back to you." A wide smile graced her features. "I shouldn't try to fool myself; I always thought about making my way back to you."

Kara's eyes met hers. They stayed staring at each other even as they played moves.

Black's counterattack was close to triumphant, but not close enough. Lena was a pawn up with a good chance of winning. But the game ended in a draw by a reiteration. White's developed passed pawn on b7 was enough to persuade Black to take the draw in hand.

"A draw?" Kara asked.

Lena grinned. "I'm impressed." And she meant it. She had been playing the game since she was a child, after she'd left Kara and Lionel had introduced her to it. And yet Kara had proven herself a skilled opponent from simply watching a couple of old men play, albeit repeatedly. Lena figured that she had been distracted and hadn't played her best game, but she had to give Kara credit where credit was due. She wanted to know if the woman had natural skill or just a really great memory.

Kara stared at the board in amazement, clearly proud of herself.

"But, Kara... I don't like trying to get to know you through a game. We obviously didn't do much talking."

Kara chewed on the inside of her cheek, apparently considering Lena's words.

"I think the best way for us to get know each other better is to live together, like we've planned."

Kara opened her mouth to speak, but a child's voice uttering Lena's name sounded off behind them.

Lena instantly stood and moved to the girl with a smile. "Hazel." She watched Hazel wipe the sleep away from her eyes before taking her by the hand and ushering her toward Kara. "Kara, I think you've heard of Clarence. This is Hazel, his daughter. I've developed quite the bond with this little one."

Kara flashed a bright smile, possibly the brightest smile Lena had seen, and knelt before the girl. "Hello, Hazel."

"Hello."

"My, what big, beautiful eyes you have."

"The better to see you with," the girl giggled.

Kara chuckled heartily, exchanging a brief glance with Lena. "I see someone's been readin' Little Red Riding Hood."

Hazel nodded vehemently. "But pa don't like it. Says it's not a story for youngins."

Lena rested caring hands on the girl's shoulders, redirecting the small face up toward her. "That's why we've been going through a whole selection of friendlier tales. Isn't that right?"

"Yes, ma'am!" the girl responded excitedly. She seemed to be thinking about all of the different stories, before her eyes trained back on Kara. She ran a hand down Kara's pants leg. "Do ya always wear trousers?"

"I do. And you know what?" The corner of Kara's eyes crinkled with enthusiasm. "They're very comfortable."

"They are?!" Hazel's gaze shot back up to Lena. "Can I wear trousers too? Like Kara?"

"We'd have to ask your father about that," Lena replied. "But since you like dresses so much, I don't know."

"Can I like both?" the girl asked earnestly.

Kara and Lena laughed.

"Of course," Lena assured.

Kara stood, patting the girl on the head, somewhat distracted by the curls that were sandy brown with hints of dark brown. Her eyes soon caught Lena's. "I take it this is also what ya meant by 'company'?"

"Yes," Lena said sheepishly. "Didn't know how to segue from Siobhan."

"I understand."

Lena looked around awkwardly. "Why don't you stay for dinner? Or supper even? My cooking has greatly improved."

Kara waved a dismissive hand. "Nah. I think I oughta be gettin' back."

"But..." Lena stepped away from Hazel and in front of Kara, eyes reflecting concern. "You still intend to..."

"Be with you?" Kara cupped the brunette's face in her hands. "You bet."

"Good." Lena grinned. "We can discuss everything tomorrow."

"Okay," Kara agreed, backing away slowly. "See ya later. You too, Hazel."

"Oh, and Kara..."

"Don't tell Mon-El," the blonde guessed her train of thought. "That much goes without sayin.'"

"At least not until we have everything worked out," Lena affirmed.

"I hear ya."

Kara's eyes made contact with Siobhan's at the stairway before heading toward the door and exiting it. Lena saw the exchange and wondered how long the woman had been standing there and how much she'd heard.

IIII

"Will Kara be there?" Hazel asked.

"Perhaps." Lena held up the purple dress in front of the girl.

"She's like a prince."

Lena smiled. "You think so?"

"She has a ponytail, the eye thingies, and trousers. Like the prince in one of ya stories."

"Spectacles," Lena corrected. "That's what the eye thingies are called."

Hazel giggled. "Funny name."

Lena ran a hand along the dress. She would have to remember to not make up another fairy tale about Kara. It was just that sometimes she felt she could tell a better romance than the children's books had to offer. Only now did she think about the fact that Hazel had yet to meet her employees. If the girl had, then seeing Kara in pants after seeing Sam and Maggie wouldn't have been such a shock. As it stood, it wouldn't take much for Hazel to connect the dots and figure out that a few of her stories were indeed based on Kara. Hazel was three, but she was sharp.

"I think this dress will look lovely on you," Lena said, hugging the girl close.

Even though it hadn't been long since Lena had become acquainted with the skinny, quiet child, she felt like she'd known Hazel for much longer. They spent an incredible amount of time together on Lena's off days and even some days when Lena got off work. Clarence brought her by in the mornings when Lena didn't have overseer duties, and picked her up once he was done with his ranchhand labor. In the evenings when he didn't have to work, he'd also allow Hazel time with Lena. And when Hazel wasn't with her, Clarence had one of the other two women he trusted look after the girl.

"You wear necklaces like this one?" Hazel asked, holding up one of the pieces of jewelry from a stand near the bed.

"Not as much anymore," Lena replied softly, absentmindedly touching a hand to her neck.

Hazel's eyes followed. "Who gave ya that one?"

Lena grinned. "Kara."

"See?" Hazel's eyes went wide. "Just like the prince."

"You'll get to wear a necklace too," Lena chuckled. "In fact, you can have one if you like."

Hazel smiled shyly, as if receiving gifts was as unfamiliar to her as clean clothes and healthcare had been. But these past few weeks, her bruises had healed considerably. She talked more and more, and had a innocent and infectious sense of humor. Lena concluded that the girl must have at times talked with Clarence a lot in whatever home in the woods they'd lived in, for, even with as smart as Hazel was, her speech progression couldn't all be attributed to time with Lena. Before, she'd must have simply been shy and/or out of practice when it came to conversation.

"Lena?"

"Yes, Hazel?"

"Can I call you 'ma'?"

Lena's features significantly softened. "I don't think you can, honey."

"But why? Why don't I get ta have a ma?"

Lena hugged the girl close. She didn't have an answer for that, and she felt a sharp pain in her chest. For so many years, she'd felt empty inside, always like a part of her was missing. But she'd pressed on, hoping that the dull ache would go away. It had subsided somewhat with Siobhan, but it had still been there. And now, having only been back in town for a couple of months, the emptiness had been filled by a blonde she'd always longed for and a child she'd only known for a short time. She silently berated herself for ever thinking she needed to settle, that nothing would ever be enough. These two were enough. She just didn't know how long she would have them for.

IIII

Kara was almost asleep when she heard the distinct sound of pebbles clashing against her bedroom window. She leapt up to look out at the midnight landscape and spotted Lena staring back at her with a smile. Opening the window in a hurry, she wasn't able to keep the surprise out of her voice. "Lena?"

Lena dropped the remaining pebbles to the ground and dusted her hands on her dress. "Sorry about attacking your cabin," she said, walking to look up at Kara.

"It's more of a log house than a cabin, but, Lena, what in the -"

"- I needed to see you, and there's no messenger I could send for this. So..." She looked nervous, apologetic almost. "We should keep our voices down," she whispered.

"What's this about?" Kara asked.

"I never specified where we should talk tomorrow. We can meet at my house, after the gathering. You will be at the gathering, won't you?"

"Yeah."

"Good." Lena smiled.

"But what does that have to do with anythang?"

"The attorney I told you about. He's willing to meet tomorrow. It's his earliest opening. He knows that many in town, us included, will be at the gathering from mid-morning to noon or later, and so he's agreed to meet afterward. I don't know, perhaps he wants to enjoy the get-together first as well."

"I see." Kara bit on her bottom lip, looking at all of Lena. The brunette looked so ethereal, so beautiful, under the moonlight.

Lena stared about, pulling her shawl closer around her shoulders. It was uncharacteristically chilly out tonight. Just a little.

"Well," Lena said, looking at her, "I should be going." She moved to turn away.

"Lena, wait." Kara Leaned against the window, sticking her head out.

Lena turned to her, confusion plastered on her elegant features.

"Can I kiss you?"

Lena looked taken aback, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. She moved to Kara and placed a hand against the window frame as though it were an extension of Kara's arm. The placement was soft, hesitant. "Kara... If I kiss you right now, I'll surely climb through that window. And goodness knows I won't be able to tear myself away."

Kara felt her cheeks and blood warm. The message was clear, and all the more evident by the desire radiating from Lena's eyes. She settled on nodding her understanding.

Lena moved back slowly, eyes still assessing Kara.

"You're breaking a rule, ya know. Being out late like this," Kara teased. It was the least she could do to balance out the tension.

Lena chuckled. "Oh, hush." She moved atop Wrangler and sat up proudly, a perfect picture of resoluteness and contentedness. She stared at Kara one last time before riding off.

And Kara thought that every time she was certain Lena never looked more beautiful, she was proven wrong.

IIII

"I hope they have some good food," Kara whispered.

Alex, fanning herself silly, looked over at her. "Father Mable knows to have extra delicious meals on days like this. But what he should be worried 'bout is the air circulation in this place," she said, looking around at the church windows as if she were about to die of a lack of ventilation. She turned the fan on William, ensuring that he got a breeze as well.

"Don't worry. We'll be outside soon enough," Kara told her. "And the weather won't remain the way it is for much longer. Come October, you'll probably be wishin' for the heat." She watched as Alex rolled her eyes, but she couldn't concern herself too much with her sister's minor troubles. The heat never bothered her like it bothered Alex, but she still felt the need to adjust her collar. She looked around at the townspeople, some still ushering in. All she wanted to do was eat and meet up with Lena. Despite what she'd told Alex, she wasn't certain how long it'd be before they relocated in the field some yards away from the church for the gathering.

It was clear that a number of townspeople were still wary of Lena and how she and her family had left for the city. They didn't like her looking into Anna Davies's rape, no matter that she hadn't uncovered anything. Kara couldn't help but think about how Clarence and Hazel fit into the perceptions. Lena obviously cared about them both.

Kara looked over to where Hazel was sitting a few feet away. Her purple dress, with ruffles at the collar and cuffs, somehow complimented her eyes. Kara had seen it when the child had briefly turned around. She was so very pretty and could easily be mistaken for Lena's own child, what with her angular features and sharp, pouty mouth. Kara reasoned that perhaps that was part of the bond Lena had with the girl; she could envision her as younger version of herself or as a child she might have had if only she'd married a man. Kara had never thought about having children with someone until this very moment. A part of her felt saddened by it. It was the one thing she'd never be able to offer Lena. That, and an official marriage recognized by God.

She watched as Lena returned from wherever she'd gone to and spoke softly to Hazel. She'd wanted to get a better look at Lena, only having seen the back of her since she arrived with Alex, but it was suddenly time to usher everyone outside and to the areas of the field, near one of the two town schools, that would be hosting the gathering.

Mr. Ray stopped by to say hi as she, Alex and William made their way outside. Jonathan was behind them talking with Alaina's mother; Alex didn't seem to mind, more concerned with where Mon-El might be. Kara, letting her know that Mon-El had said something about sorting out his grandfather's will and that he wouldn't be attending because of that, knew that this would at least make her day less complicated.

Sighing, she breathed in the fresh air as they made their way over to the field. The sun shone brightly, birds tweeted and occasionally hopped from one branch to another. Several tables of food were set up every few feet apart. Games, children's games especially, were in place in some of the empty areas. Groups of people sat on blankets in shaded spots with their loved ones. Like harvesttime, which had already began for some and was just beginning or around the corner for others, this was the time of year used to share information about one another's lives. It was the social event many in town looked forward to, and even more so this year since no work other than those who'd helped set up the festivities was required. If it were any other day, Kara would find such an atmosphere welcoming. Refreshing. But today, with everyone dressed in their Sunday best and chatting without a care in the world, she felt like an outsider. The things she wanted no longer meshed with the traditional views of the town. Perhaps they never did. After all, there weren't many girls or women lining up to be a blacksmith; there weren't any.

"Enjoying yourselves?"

Kara turned toward the familiar voice. Ms. Merriam smiled their way, one of the woman's signature feathered hats blowing in the breeze on top of her head.

"Ms. Merriam," Kara and Alex said in unison.

"Been sometime since we've had a chance to talk again," the older woman said. "That goes double for you, Alexandria."

Alex smiled through gritted teeth. Kara knew that her sister despised being called by her full name. "I've been so busy with married life and all," Alex said, running a hand through William's brilliant head of hair. "And this little guy."'

Ms. Merriam's eyes narrowed as she looked over the brunette's shoulder. "Yes, I can see your husband is well taken care of."

Alex's eyes followed Ms. Merriam's line of vision to Jonathan a few feet away, oblivious to his wife and engrossed in conversation with Alaina's mother. Alaina herself looked absolutely bored holding onto her mother's hand. Kara silently groaned. She didn't like the implication.

Alex cleared her throat. "Yes, well, Emma's a good family friend. She's Alaina's mother, as you know. And Alaina is William's betrothed." Alex looked off to the side. "And, oh, look - I see another family friend. If you'll excuse me."

Kara smirked as she watched her sister scurry off toward Maggie at a food table. Kara could use a food table right about now. Instead, she was stuck with Ms. Merriam.

"Good morning," Lena's voice abruptly sounded near her.

She turned to view Lena and Hazel smiling up at her. She saw a light blush on Lena's cheek, and quickly deduced the reason for it. Today was of course the day they would meet with the attorney for their union. But there was more to it than that.

Lena was dressed differently than usual. Her dark hair was done up in a braid that hung over her right shoulder, a silk ribbon outlining the circular pattern at the top. The ribbon matched her silver silk dress and half-black bodice, which both did their part in highlighting her curves and reminding Kara of what she'd been pressed up against and had only briefly touched. But it wasn't like she could forget.

She fought to tear her eyes away, to not think of how much more she wanted to explore. At this point in time, Lena wasn't someone she could openly desire, if ever. And Ms. Merriam's gaze and instincts were acute. She couldn't give the old woman any reason to suspect that her relationship with Lena was anything but platonic and sisterly. "Hi," she said, forcing her eyes to meet Lena's.

Ms. Merriam bent down toward Hazel. "Your name is Hazel, ain't it? My, aren't you a pretty thang."

Hazel beamed. "Lena gave me this dress. She said I'm a princess."

"You sure are," Ms. Merriam assured, straightening to look up at Lena. "So you watch this little girl when her father is workin'?"

"Sometimes," Lena said, a soft smile stretching across her lips.

"How nice of you."

Kara grimaced. When they were children, Ms. Merriam had often told them that kindness breeds kindness and to be nice instead of nasty. There was a chance that the woman was proud of Lena. But there was also the fact that Ms. Merriam wasn't very nice herself.

"Kara?" Hazel queried, pulling on her pants leg. "Ya look handsome."

Lena stifled a giggle.

Ms. Merriam's eyes nearly bugged out. "Not handsome, child. Kara's a woman." She looked Kara over — the way her hair was pulled back into its usual ponytail, the spectacles in place of makeup, and the suspender suit. "Not a very lady-like woman, mind you, but a woman nonetheless. So you should say she looks pretty. Or lovely even."

"You look pretty, Kara," Lena piped up, the dimple in her right cheek more prominent than ever.

"Thank you," Kara replied, putting on her best effort not to blush. She looked down at Hazel. "And thank you too, Hazel. I accept compliments in any form."

Ms. Merriam shook her head disapprovingly, but was apparently content to let the subject drop. "Do you mind if I introduce this sweet girl to others from the church?"

Lena looked as though she wanted to object, her attachment to the child clear.

"I promise I'll have her back with ya in no time. I'll be right over there." Ms. Merriam pointed to the crowd ahead of her, and to a group of older women in particular.

"As long as she's not gone long," Kara interjected. She was all too aware of Ms. Merriam's standing in the church community, and in general, and knew that Hazel being introduced by the woman could only help the town better accept both Hazel and her father.

Ms. Merriam smiled. "Appreciate it." She took Hazel by the hand, and Lena nodded at the girl to let Ms. Merriam take her. She was as attached to Lena as Lena was to her.

"Ya don't mind?" Kara asked as they observed Ms. Merriam joining her friends with Hazel at her side.

"Of course I do," Lena nearly whined. "That woman may be a great a cook and all, but I'm not entirely sure of her motherly instincts or guardian skills. Plus, she's always hated me. And now I've just left her with a child she knows I care about."

"Lena, c'mon. Ms. Merriam is many things, and can be detrimental in a number of ways, but she'd never harm a child."

Lena frowned slightly as Hazel explained something to the group of women with wide gestures, and the women belly laughed. "Perhaps."

Kara guided Lena's attention back to her. "So where's Clarence, or Siobhan?"

"Clarence said he couldn't afford to take a day off from his duties. I told him it was nonsense and that I'd cover for him, but he insisted. I'm sure he knew what a great opportunity today would be for him to blend in, but, as you know, he's not very sociable. If he wanted to blend in, he would have attempted that years ago. But I suspect he wants more for Hazel." Lena looked over at the child with a grin before turning back to Kara. "As for Siobhan, she's somewhere around here talking with Father Mable. The woman doesn't have a religious bone in her body, but she's convinced she can talk Father Mable into giving her a role working at the church. You see, she's been complaining about women's jobs in this town being work that would ruin her hands and/or will to live, and that taking on a job with me would require her being more conniving than she already is."

"At least she's honest," Kara laughed.

"Indeed," Lena grinned. "What about Mon-El?"

"Tendin' to something concerning his grandfather's will."

"And are your parents not coming?"

"Unlike yours, they never were big on the gatherings," Kara said, thankful that the same applied to Mon-El's parents. She didn't know what she'd do if Lar and Rhea showed up here.

Lena's demeanor suddenly appeared to change, and she stepped in front of her then. "So we're all alone for the time being?"

Kara stared into the brunette's viridescent eyes. There was something peculiar about the sparkle in those eyes. Something that made Kara want to pull her close and kiss her. She could smell her lily scent and feel the alluring warmth of her body. "Seems like," she settled on.

Lena tucked a finger beneath one of Kara's suspender straps and briefly ran the digit up and down it. "Never saw you in these before," she whispered. "They're nice."

Kara felt her eyes flutter but refusing to decidedly close. It wasn't that long ago that she thought she'd never see Lena again. When the brunette had left, it had seemed that would be it. It was, after all, the reason she'd given up her only necklace. And now that Lena was back, she still had a bit of difficulty believing that all of this was real. Lena wanted her when the woman could have any man, any suitor. She knew that Lena's inclination toward women gave her an advantage, but why her? Why not Siobhan? Why not any other woman? Despite whatever concern existed regarding Lionel's legacy, Lena had come back to town just to be with her? To marry her even?

Nothing was closer to a dream than being with Lena in all the ways afforded a husband, Kara was starting to realize. And just the thought made her weak in the knees.

Ms. Merriam brought Hazel back over and left them just as quickly, apparently determined to get back to her gossiping friends.

"You could come over and picnic with us," Lena said," grabbing a hold of Hazel's hand. "I've set up a spot by a tree."

Before Kara could answer, they were called over by Lena's employees and Alex. She and Lena turned to see James and his family, Alex, William, Maggie, Sam and Winn all sitting on blankets in a circular fashion. They walked to the group and those unfamiliar with each other were introduced. By the time everyone had been filled in on who was who and their relationship to one another, Kara had eaten two chicken drumsticks, and Hazel was stuffing her mouth with mash potatoes and rambling on about a drawing of a dog she made. This piqued William's interest, as he noted some of his own drawings, namely a shield to fight evil guards. Then James's daughters, Addie and Lela, joined in. Addie, being older than all of the children, talked about being able to knit doll clothes instead. For a moment, Kara felt overwhelmed by little voices.

"Lena, you knit?" James's wife, Opal, asked.

"Not very well, I'm afraid," Lena replied apologetically.

"Oh, that's no problem, boss," Maggie chimed in. "Alex here could teach ya."

Alex clearly didn't take well to that suggestion, which didn't go unnoticed by Lena, who looked down to fiddle with some grass. Her red lipstick was more vibrant than the roses adorning one of the picnic baskets, and Kara again found her attention settling on the brunette's mouth. She knew she should tell Alex about what happened between Lena and herself, but Alex was so cold to Lena already and she didn't want anyone else trying dissuade her from being with Lena. Mon-El and his folks were enough.

Lena noticed her staring and looked up with a blush. "Stop it," she whispered.

"Stop what?" Kara's shoulders lifted and fell with a shrug.

"Staring."

"I can't help it. You look..."

A strong breeze passed by and nearly took off Maggie's hat.

"Lena's too good at her job," Sam finally added to the conversation. "Often doesn't have time for women's work. 'Lest it's cookin' meals for herself and washin' clothes when time allows."

Lena and Sam took this chance to delve into the intricacies of being an overseer, with Winn and Maggie corroborating or disagreeing every now and then. Lena laughed her captivating laugh.

And Kara just watched her. She couldn't discern why she was so aware of Lena's every movement now, except maybe as a side effect of their prolonged kissing the other day. Her gaze moved to the brunette's bodice and she pondered what fabric, besides the silk of the dress, lie beneath it. How the full, pale bosom would look bare and against her tan hand. Her blood immediately warmed and she wiped a palm across her brow. She needed to keep her mind preoccupied with anything other than Lena.

"I think Lena and Kara were hoping for some time alone," Sam said.

The group all looked to the two, with Opal appearing confused as to the implication. Apparently, she was the only adult present, besides Alex, who didn't know the true nature of the relationship between the two women. James told her he'd explain later. Kara hoped the woman was understanding, but, because of the prejudice that existed in the town regarding people of color, it was unlikely she would be believed even if she tried to expose them as deviants. There were already enough people giving James and his family the side-eye. Kara figured that at least it seemed James trusted his wife.

The group, all except for Alex, agreed to excuse Kara and Lena, and Lena offered a look of thank you to Sam. It seemed that Sam was to Lena what Sara was to Kara. Alex was staring at Kara with a look of worry and skepticism, as if hoping that the two women were simply catching up on days they might have missed together.

As Lena and Kara were about to part, with Hazel in tow, Siobhan arrived. Her gaze focused solely on Kara and Lena, but Winn jumped up to intercept. "Siobhan, hi," he said. "Mind walking with me for a bit?"

"Oh no," James bemoaned with humor in his eyes.

From what Kara could decipher, Winn was interested in Siobhan beyond a platonic context. Kara knew from Lena that Siobhan had been interested in men, but Siobhan didn't strike Kara as the kind of woman who would want a country boy like Winn or who'd give up on Lena without more of a fight. Hell, Mon-El hadn't given up on her despite multiple signs that he should, and they hadn't even been together.

Siobhan gave Kara and Lena one last look, challenging almost, as she agreed to walk with Winn. Kara hadn't known it until that moment, but Lena had been holding her breath. She heard, and visibly saw, her exhale as Siobhan was whisked away.

IIII

Children played one-on-one, with two small rackets and a shuttlecock. Some of the shuttlecock's feathers were lost to the wind as child after child volleyed it from racket to racket as many times as they could without letting it touch the ground.

"It's my turn now?" Hazel asked, looking from Kara to Lena.

Kara smiled. "Yes, it's yer turn. Just make sure ya stay with the smaller children."

"I will!" Hazel said, running ahead.

Lena watched her join the other children, determined to make sure she was paired properly. Lena knew better than anyone that being a small child had a number of disadvantages. For her, it had simply been how she was built. For Hazel, it was about age. Most 3-year-olds were that small; she knew that much.

She watched one of the adults look at Hazel and briefly instruct the girl on what to do. William stood triumphantly, having just won a game. He moved to Hazel, smiling at her with a wide grin and intent on offering his expertise, but Alaina showed up to trip him. Addie and Lela approached then, and Alaina and Lela argued over who'd play Hazel before Alaina got her way.

"Some headstrong children," Lena said, leaning back against the tree she'd picked out earlier, before she and Kara had been called over to converse. She stared at Alex dusting off William and pointing a scolding finger at Alaina. "I don't think William and Alaina like each other very much."

"Well, they are only four," Kara yawned, relaxing back on the blanket.

"Tired already?"

"Not until I at least have some ham and turkey. And some more of that lemonade."

Lena chuckled. "How do you eat so much?"

"It's a gift."

"With the way you never seem to have to worry about it, I imagine so."

Kara had removed her suspender straps from her shoulders and unbuttoned the top of her shirt, revealing the beginning of her tanned torso. Her eyes, which were currently absent their spectacles, shut closed. Siobhan still hadn't returned from wherever she went with Winn, which Lena was thankful for. It meant that she and Kara could remain relatively undisturbed for the time being.

She stared at Kara, at the features she knew so well. The blonde's lips eased into a light smile. The small scar on her forehead seemed smaller than when animated by crinkles and furrows. The light freckles stretching across her cheeks and nose were as beautiful as Lena remembered, but they weren't as noticeable as they had been all those years ago. Her breathing slowed, and Lena appraised the length and scale of her chest and shoulders, recalling how it felt to be pressed against them, to run her hands over the woman's toned back.

She shut her eyes, fighting off the thoughts. It wouldn't do to lust after Kara in the open like this, and with Hazel and other children so close by. But she couldn't help thinking that maybe it was a fluke, that maybe Kara's desires didn't run as strongly as hers. There were times she could recognize the passion in Kara's eyes. The kissing in Kara's home days ago couldn't have happened unless Kara wanted her in some way too. But did Kara truly want to experience her touch? Could Kara get past religious convictions enough to let anything sexual happen between them? And if not sexual, could she and Kara be happy living together with just the love they share for each other?

She opened her eyes when she felt her braid shift behind her and a hand on her back. Kara had moved to sit beside her. The blonde's long fingers moved slowly against her shoulder blade and down the small of her back.

"Kara?" she asked, a definite question rather than a statement. The last time Kara had touched her like this, they were at their lake in the woods and Lena had struggled to tell the woman how she felt. Taking in a labored breath, she looked around for any eyes that might be on them, but found none. Kara interacting with her like this now felt dangerous. There was too much at risk.

"I just wanted to touch you," Kara said. Her voice was low and lethargic-sounding.

"You can't touch me like this in public."

"No one will see."

Kara's fingers moved to the space between them to trace her hip. Lena went still. A delicious shiver ran along her body. Kara's fingers were on her hip, playing there, tracing circles. And there was no one who could see it. But she no longer cared if anyone did. All her mind kept focusing on was the stroking at one of her erotic points — the middle of her left hip — and the heat that traveled up her thighs and farther to her center. It was no secret to her that some women found this part of the body sensual, but how Kara knew about it, she was less clear on. She licked her lips as the onslaught continued and her breathing hitched.

And then the tantalizing hand was gone. Lena waited for it to return. When it didn't, she finally turned to Kara. The blonde had her arms folded across her chest and her eyes were again closed, as if nothing had happened.

Annoyance suddenly replaced desire. She wanted to pull her hair out. Had Kara honestly teased her?

"Are you trying to drive me mad?" she asked.

Kara grinned. "You asked me ta marry you. I think you're already there."

"You..." Lena pushed her hard against the shoulder. "I will make you pay for this one day."

Kara laughed, finally opening blue and attentive eyes to stare at her. "Is that so?"

Lena felt herself on the verge of smashing her lips against the blonde's, but an altercation near the children's game Hazel was involved was brought to her attention. Jonathan was arguing with James over James's daughters playing against his son. Both skin color and gender were the basis of heated words as the children were pulled to the side by other adults, including Alex and Opal. Lena attempted to rise, but Kara held her back.

"James will handle this on his own," the blonde said. "He always does."

"But to sit here and just allow such disrespect? Going over there will at least -"

"- Make things work worse. Not better," Kara challenged as they witnessed Mr. Ray enter into the fray to help talk the men down. "Trust me, I've defended James enough to know. And he's told me enough that he don't need rescuin.'"

Lena stared at Kara, observing the conflict on her face. There was definitely history there. "I notice that you don't interact with James much."

"Well, I'm often busy. I don't interact much with Winn these days either." Kara briefly glanced at her. "But if ya must know, James was once sweet on me, 'bout nine years ago after he arrived in town. Before Opal. Mon-El sensed it and they almost came to blows a few times, with Mon-El going on about how the town would never accept James with a white woman. It's not like I was interested anyhow. In either of 'em."

Kara and Lena held gazes, and Lena's eyes relayed her understanding.

"But Hazel..."

"Here she comes now," Kara said just as Hazel ran up to them both.

"Lena! Kara! I won."

Kara stood and picked the girl up in her arms. "So you did." She smiled. "But you still haven't played me yet."

"You wanna play?"

"I most certainly do."

Lena looked back over to the area to see Jonathan and James and their families leaving. She watched Kara take up the mantle and play with this needy and deserving little girl. She watched as a light in Hazel shone brighter simply due to Kara's presence. And she knew that marrying anyone else would always be unfathomable to her.

IIII

Marriage was something that was a duty, Kara thought, as she stared at the pudgy-faced, plump attorney sitting across from her and Lena. Siobhan had stayed behind at the church, having managed to convince Father Mable to let her help there as a service worker. Kara had come straight to Lena's home and discussed matters. And the attorney, Walter Hamby, had shown up soon afterward. Like Sara, who'd decided to attend the gathering late and clearly drunk, Kara felt late to the prospect of such an important and long-term commitment, and drunk via thoughts of finally being with Lena. She'd never committed to Mon-El; so this was new for her. But Lena had committed to Siobhan. Would she ever be able to compete with that? Would she ever be enough for Lena? It's not like their union would even be legal. But then again, Lena and Siobhan's union hadn't been legal either.

"I'm going to be frank with you, Ms. Luthor," Walter stated, looking up from the papers in front of him as he adjusted his pince-nez spectacles at the bridge of his nose. "I don't mean to toot my own horn, but you're lucky you came to me instead of to the other attorney. This will be quite the uphill battle."

"I'm aware of that," Lena said, clutching Kara's hand and glancing at her before looking back at Walter. "But we're prepared. I didn't select you by sheer luck."

Walter ran a hand over his scruffy beard and sat back in his chair. He had salt and pepper hair, and appeared to be in his fifties, from what Kara could gather. "The town will not feel as threatened if you present yourselves as women just wantin' to live as friends, without wifely duties that come with husbands," he said. "But you will still be threatenin' their way of life. Here, and most everywhere else, a woman is expected to take a husband, obey that husband, and bear him children. Two women sayin' they'd rather live together with no ties to men will raise many an eyebrow. Some in town will suspect that you are deviant."

Lena lowered her head, seemingly thinking things over. "I gathered as much."

Walter picked up a document, looking it over. "The places you described to me are not as concerned with women lovin' each other in such a way. This place, as you know, however... Its focus on non-conformists is high." He moved to sit upright and look over more papers. "But there are some things you could do to lessen suspicion."

"Like what?" Kara asked, eager for anything that would lessen the danger she might be putting her loved ones in.

"Well," Walter ran a calloused hand across his brow, "one of you could take an actual spouse. It would look odd for a woman to insist to live independent of her husband, yes, but it would be something."

"Marry a man?" Lena asked incredulously, her tone taking on offense. She dropped Kara's hand frustratedly. "Out of the question."

"But, Ms. Luthor -"

"Out of the question, Walter," she sneered, pointing a finger at him. "The whole point of this union is to get Kara out of a marriage contract she never wanted to be in. It's to make it so that she has a choice."

"And I choose Lena," Kara affirmed, taking hold of Lena's hand once more.

Walter looked to the women's intertwined digits and smiled. "Listen," he said, looking up at the two. "I've seen a lot in my lifetime. I haven't always been a part of this town. So your wish to be together doesn't surprise me, but it will surprise others, even if they see it as all platonic. I'm just tryna cover all of the angles."

"Choose different angles," Lena demanded.

Walter grinned. "Very well then. The only reason I took on this case is because there is an openin.' You see, Kara's birth parents signed that marriage contract, but the folks who took her in did not. Of course, the Danvers family adopting Kara wasn't legally formalized, but the marriage contract, unlike the marriage itself if it were to happen, has no legal standin' either. It's just an agreement between families, like every other arranged marriage in town. The town obviously has its rules, and one of those includes adhering to the contract, but if Kara's adoptive parents were willing to tear up the contract, or otherwise negate it, the town would have no choice but to accept it. They would need to accept that Kara's adoptive parents are the ones who raised her and should get a say in who she should be with."

"I can't bring my folks into this, I can't," Kara said with panic in her voice. Lena squeezed her hand in support.

"There may be no other way, Ms. Danvers," Walter pressed. "Your folks should be safe as long as they aren't publicly endorsin' a same-sex union. If they publicly support you being an old maid, the town will be willing to accept it, just like with your blacksmith duties. Certainly more acceptin' of it than you breakin' a contract simply because you want to."

Kara looked to the table frowning.

"The only thing left to ensure is that no accusations of deviancy spring up. But from what you've told me, your betrothed and his folks are willin' to expose you. If that happens, that is where most of the uphill battle will come from. You will need to either confirm or deny your true relationship to Ms. Luthor. And lyin' won't do us any good, especially not under oath if this goes to trial for accusations of deviancy. But the truth would also obviously be damning. Can you handle that?"

Kara looked at Lena. "I can."

Lena smiled. "We can."

Walter chuckled. "Then I guess we're all set. It would still be best if you can find some way to talk your suitor out of exposin' you, Ms. Danvers. That is one of the concerns as well, is it not? To protect your family at all costs?"

"It is," Kara replied.

"Good. So to help show stability and that this is not some very new occurrence, you should start livin' together as soon as possible. Do that for a couple of weeks or more first. Let the town get used to the idea of two unmarried childhood friends livin' together in the same home. And be warned that this may still go to trial for the simple fact that even though the marriage contract is not legally bindin,' it is bindin' in the court of public opinion and the town will want a say in it all to ensure that your decision doesn't break their long-standin' marriage customs. As such, it would help a great deal if the two of you are able to honestly say that you haven't been sexually intimate."

Lena and Kara looked to each other and then back to Walter.

"Have you been?" he asked.

"No," Kara and Lena said simultaneously.

"Good, good. I need you to keep it that way until all of this is settled. Can you do that as well?"

Kara and Lena again looked to each other, their intertwined hands squeezing not only for comfort, but also for strength. They had a long battle ahead of them indeed.

IIII

Talking things over with Mon-El after packing up her belongings the following day had gone over as Kara had expected it would. He was shocked, appalled, saddened, and angry. He'd looked at her as though she'd stomped on his heart and spat on it. And that expression didn't change as she'd stood in the doorway, with the rest of her bags slung over her shoulder, ready to be loaded onto her wagon. She told him that if he loved her at all, he would let her be, or at the very least he would not expose her, for it would hurt her family. He seemed to agree, but it hadn't stopped him from making a threatening vow: "I'll fight you on this," he'd said.

"You'll lose," Kara had said in return, before closing the door behind her.

During the week that passed afterward, Kara discovered that living with Lena wasn't any easier than living with Mon-El, if only because she barely spent time with Lena, and Siobhan, with as much free time as the woman had, always seemed to be there. Walter had said that Siobhan continuing to live with them would also help the image of old maids simply trying to get by on their own. But to Kara, the woman was a nuisance. Any chance she got some time alone with Lena, such as in the living area when Lena was reading a book and Kara would watch her contently, Siobhan would show up to watch her as well. The watching didn't seem to bother Lena, who'd simply look up and smile at them both.

On the days Lena had Hazel, Hazel had taken to asking Kara to tuck her in for bed. And every time this happened, Siobhan made her way downstairs to be with Lena or headed to Lena's bedroom, which was directly across from Siobhan's while Kara's room was a little farther down the hall. Kara had smiled one night when she saw Lena opening her bedroom door immediately after Siobhan had closed it. Siobhan always did attempt to close it, as if something intimate would be happening with Lena. It bothered Kara, but not enough to intrude. It was never pleasant when all three of them were in a room together.

Nearing dinner or supper time, Siobhan always insisted on cooking, which left Kara with nothing to do for Lena except clean when timing allowed. She and Lena had found one instance of washing clothes together as Siobhan prepared a meal, but it was tense the whole time. Lena kept giving her glances that signaled desire, but the fire would be gone just as quickly as it appeared. They'd ended up throwing water on each other and laughing to make things more lighthearted, but that stopped when Kara had gotten carried away and Lena's dress was doused and clung to pale curves like a second skin.

"If you'll excuse me," Lena had said, moving to head back inside. Kara had stepped right in front of her, eyes heavy with want that continued to take her by surprise. Lena had stared back, and simply side-stepped her.

That would have been tortuous enough, if Kara hadn't found herself in the predicament she was currently in. She'd opened Lena's bedroom door, needing to speak with her about their less-than-ideal living arrangements before the brunette retired for bed. She'd stopped in the doorway, mid-sentence.

Lena stood in a nightgown at the end of the bed, one leg propped on a stool, as she rubbed something, lotion perhaps, on her thigh all the way down to her calf and ankle. It was the most Kara had ever seen of the brunette's bare skin, and it was captivating.

Green eyes suddenly found hers.

"Uh, s-sorry," Kara spluttered. "I shoulda knocked." She moved to close the door.

"Kara..." Lena called, halting her departure.

Kara stood there, back turned to Lena.

"Come," the brunette beckoned her.

Kara took in a deep breath and exhaled, her shoulders rising and falling with emphasis. "But...we shouldn't."

"Come," Lena said again, her voice sounding like the beginning of a sonnet meant to soothe, but also one that promised forbidden joy.

Kara closed the door. She was right — they shouldn't be doing this. They needed to refrain from sexual intimacy if they were to avoid untruths, including perjury, unless they chose honesty instead.

But even knowing this, Kara turned to the woman. Lena's eyes were all over her, chest heaving unnaturally, belying the nervousness that didn't dare show itself on that beautifully alluring face. She was still standing in the same position as before, one leg propped on the stool, ample skin exposed. Kara's eye's drifted there, to her thighs.

Lena inclined her head as though calling her once again.

Kara approached slowly, cautiously, not sure what to expect or if she should retrace her steps and head for the door. When she made it to the woman, she lifted her chin proudly, indicating that she would not show shame for what they both knew they wanted.

Lena smiled. And like before, she ran a finger under and along one of Kara's suspender straps.

Kara's breathing constricted, and her gaze again drifted to Lena's legs. Could she touch her? Should she?

"I really do like you in these," Lena whispered. "I don't know how many times, but goodness knows I've fought against my mind spinning images of me sliding them off your shoulders."

Kara felt all of the air leave her body. Lately, when Lena said "goodness knows," there wasn't much of anything else to say. Lena pulled her closer. Was this actually going to happen? Was this their moment?

If was their moment, it was interrupted by a blood-curdling scream. Lena and Kara, alarmed, pulled apart, and Lena yanked on a nearby robe before hurrying out with Kara. At the bottom of the stairway, they saw Siobhan on the floor cradling a twisted and bloodied leg.

"I fell," she said.

"Oh, Siobhan," Lena uttered, hurrying to the woman with the utmost concern. "How did it happen? You're lucky it was just a fall." She gently caressed Siobhan's limb.

"I don't know," Siobhan replied, her eyes abruptly meeting Kara's at the top of the stairway. "Clumsy, I guess."

"You silly woman," Lena chided. "Kara," she looked over her shoulder, "get some utensils. Hurry. It's late, but we might need to venture to a doctor. Siobhan's leg...it's looking bad."

Kara nodded as Lena turned back to focus on Siobhan. But Siobhan's eyes remained on Kara. As Kara moved to get utensils, she knew that look was trouble. It signaled a whole world of danger.