Hypothetical Romance
Ch. 5 - Wonderful Tonight (The Gala, Part 1)
By athenaverse / il0vesunfl0wers
Summary
Kara Zor-El attends the gala with Lena, charms the crowd and gets mobbed. Sam goes, too—need I say more? xD
Notes:
Wow, this reached 11K views on AO3 now! To celebrate, I tried to match that in length. Thank you for reading and for all the lovely feedback! As a thank you to all readers, this chapter is the longest one yet at ~13K words. For the frequent reviewers (from AO3 and ) I inserted 11 names in this 2-part gala event. Two of you are voicing politicians because somebody had to play them, hehe.
Like with Ch. 3, the gala has section song titles. And now I present to you my rendition of Kara Zor-El, a la non-evil Red-K Kara, out in public as herself. Enjoy!
Reminder: Mo ghrá (graw) = my love/dear | Mo chroí (kree) = my heart/treasure
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Oh, why can't you be good?
~ "Why Can't You Behave" by Jane Monheit
Since Lena's beauty preparations tended to take longer, she got a head start by getting her hair and makeup done at the salon, while Kara did God only knows what to make Supergirl's golden waves flow loosely in all their glory. Lena had considered hiring a stylist for Kara, but it was not worth the risk of exposure for just one night. She and Kara would have liked to see an elaborate Grecian hairstyle on her, but as a rule updos, twists, buns, braids, coiffeurs or the like were reserved for Day Job Kara because apparently it helped her human 'disguise'. Besides, Supergirl's signature hair was a thing, so they left it at that. At least Lena trusted the Irish designer she hired to make their gowns.
Kara was still loading up on food in the kitchen when Lena returned to the penthouse. Kara suspected that hors d'oeuvres would be served all night at the gala, and that would not be enough for someone with a bottomless pit of a stomach like hers. Not unless she ate everything in sight. Except, constantly stuffing her face wasn't exactly classy, no sir. So, she thought it was best to get her fill before heading to the venue.
"Wow, your hair and makeup look fabulous!" Kara said as she gave Lena a welcome home kiss and hug.
"Of course, they... do..." Lena's teasing retort came to a halt and she froze in her tracks when her girlfriend stepped back. Kara was currently dressed in loose drawstring canary yellow joggers and a baby blue, sleeveless, zippered shirt that offered a glimpse of some cleavage and her abs, not to mention those arms of steel, which flexed and bunched. The vixen appeared not to be wearing anything under her shirt, judging from the telltale points on her chest that also greeted Lena upon her arrival. Lena suddenly felt parched.
"You okay?" Kara asked with a slight slant to her lips.
Lena blinked twice. She shook her head to snap out of her stupor. "Ehm. I just... I feel attacked."
"Yeah?" Kara's brows shot up in surprise and delight. It wasn't every day her well-bred girlfriend used slang. I must be rubbing off on her. She smirked. "Care to take me down?"
Lena chuckled. "Tempting. Maybe later."
"Uh-huh. Wait till you see me in my dress," Kara replied, cheeky as ever, winking as she toyed with the zipper.
"Wait till you see me in mine."
"Oh, I'm sure I'll feel more than attacked." Kara gave her another smooch. "Maybe you should eat something before we get started. I'll just clean up real quick."
Soon enough, Kara sat on the chair in front of the vanity mirror in Lena's dressing room, where Lena carefully applied eye shadow on Kara's eyelids. To say that Lena had a walk-in closet was like saying she had a tool shed. No, Lena Luthor had a dressing room dedicated to fashion, like a mini boutique with floor-to-ceiling closet organizers along the walls and track lights overhead. Shoes were neatly displayed in stacked rows. There were drawers for various folded clothes, jewelry, watches, sunglasses, makeup, and accessories, and more. Kara even had a dedicated space to call her own. Hanging clothes were organized in sections, one for monochrome, with garments arranged from white to gray to black. Another section held hanging clothes for warmer colors and another for cool hues from all colors of the rainbow, arranged in from light to dark by color group.
Once, when Kara asked why her clothes were organized as such, Lena replied, "Because it's efficient. I can easily find what I need, even in the dark."
"Why would you crawl around in the dark to look for a puke-green shirt?"
"If you really think I own any puke-green shirts, I'm breaking up with you."
Once Kara's makeup was done, as a finishing touch, Lena fastened a ruby tiara on Kara's head, and gave her ruby-studded dangling gold earrings and matching bracelet to put on, long with gold leaf armbands that spiraled around her biceps. Lena hummed in approval as she surveyed her work. The overall effect was delicious.
The gala's theme was Ancient Greece meets modern times. Lena couldn't wait to see her beloved in her toga-inspired gown, and she couldn't wait to blow Kara away with her own outfit. For now, she asked Kara to step out of the dressing room until Lena was ready to show off. Grinning, Lena peeled off her casual clothes so she could step into her gown. When Lena was about to fasten her shoe straps, she called Kara over to help her finish up.
"Mo ghrá, have you seen... my..." Whatever it was Kara was looking for was forgotten when Lena looked up.
Lena held back her smile, enjoying Kara's deer-in-headlights moment. "Would you like to help me zip up?"
"Yes!" Kara's voice cracked. She cleared her throat and tried again. "Absolutely. I, uh, I can help you with those, too." She gestured at the strappy heels.
"Be my guest." Lena didn't hold back her smile this time.
Kara knelt on the ground and gently lifted a dainty foot with reverence. She placed the platinum gold, open-toed, tanzanite-studded Stuart Weitzman heel on her thigh and let Lena's foot settle in. The tanzanites twinkled as she tied the straps around Lena's ankle.
"These are so sexy," Kara mumbled, nibbling on her inner lips as she caressed Lena's calf up and down. "All your shoes are sexy, but this. Rao."
Lena shivered at the touch, loving the effect her heels were having on her lover. After Kara finished tying the other strap, she asked. "Zip me up?" Kara nodded, rising to her feet and offering her hand to her love.
Lena slowly rose from the chair. She wore a flowing blushed gold Grecian evening gown made of gossamer silk chiffon, which shimmered with her every move. The softly pleated v-neckline plunged down from the shoulders to the center of a golden, two-inch, elastic waistband made of embroidered lace. A built-in bra supported her breasts underneath the fabric, pushing them up lightly to give a tasteful peak of cleavage. Sheer, softly pleated, open sleeves were attached to golden lace embroidered rings, which were like halos around bare shoulders. The floor-length sleeves parted like curtains to expose her arms. Below the waistline, voluminous layers of soft pleats and folds cascaded down to the floor. A slit ran up to mid-thigh, showing glimpses of smooth, bare skin. To complete the ensemble, Lena wore a platinum gold, tanzanite studded watch, a tanzanite bracelet and matching earrings that dangled from her ear lobes.
Kara stood wide-eyed, jaw unhinged, brows practically touching her hairline. Blue eyes roamed everywhere. Her mouth opened and closed a few times until words tumbled out. "Wow... you look... you..." Kara's breath rushed out from the corner of her mouth in frustration. Lena sometimes called her Thesaurus Head when she spewed words out loud for an article she was working on. But for the life of her, Kara just couldn't find the words for a proper tribute to the goddess before her.
Lena straightened, basking in her lover's attention. She congratulated herself for successfully devastating her primary target, the one and only Kara Zor-El of Krypton, who might even faint if she found out how much Lena spent on the entire ensemble. The shoes alone should be locked in a safe when not in use, but her reaction was worth it. "I take it, you approve?"
Kara nodded with enthusiasm. "I don't even... Breathtaking and ravishing aren't enough. Will you do a slow spin for me? I want to make sure I properly appreciate you from every angle."
Lena did as asked, and when she turned she heard a strangled noise. "No bra," Kara mumbled. She knew Kara was now seeing her bare back framed by fabric that also plunged in a vee from the shoulders down to the center of the waistband.
"Ethereal! That's it," Kara mumbled as she watched Lena complete her 360-degree turn. "Sublime, even. Just... wow..."
In retrospect, Lena was no longer sure that agreeing to get ready with Kara at her penthouse had been the smartest decision. It made sense at first. Since she was going to the gala with Supergirl, picking her up at the loft was out of the question. She wanted them to look their very best in their fancy albeit delicate outfits, with hair and makeup intact. The problem was that Miss Lena Fucking Punctual Kieran Luthor miscalculated the time they should leave for the gala, not because she had abysmal logistics planning skills, oh no, but because as soon as she finished showing off her gown, Kara couldn't wait to 'help' her out of it.
After picking up her jaw from the floor, Kara stroked the fabric as if searching for something. She mumbled, "Must investigate."
"What are you doing?" Lena asked when Kara reached for the zipper, but not to zip it closed.
"This gown is a work of art. Obviously I need to properly appreciate the rest of it."
Lena arched her brow. "By taking it off?"
"Uh-huh. It deserves a thorough and rigorous inspection only The Last Daughter of Krypton can provide."
Lena rolled her eyes in mirth. "Goodness. How altruistic of you, oh great scion of the House of El."
"You're welcome! I'm positive there's more than meets the eye, so I gotta make sure to appreciate those, too."
Lena giggled at her lover's antics. "I see. And how do you plan to do that?"
"Hmm, for starters," Kara said as her hand raised the gown just enough to slip through the slit on Lena's thigh. "There's something silky down here. I need to inspect it up close and get back to you on my findings."
"Kara, you goof." Lena tried to wiggle out of Kara's grasp, to no avail. "We're going to be late."
"This will only take a sec."
"I highly doubt that." Lena sucked in a breath when that wicked hand stroked her bare leg, kneaded the inside of her thigh and inched its way towards moist heat.
"Ooh, it feels like satin and lace. Must confirm."
"Mo chroí, we don't have time for this."
Under different circumstances, Lena would have given in to her desires and let Kara's passion wash over her like rain in the desert. However, the thing about being punctual of award-winning caliber was that being late was completely unacceptable. Being late was strictly against being a well-bred Luthor, ingrained and reinforced by punishment since she was four. Lillian had drilled into her brain that good girls did not waste somebody's time by keeping them waiting. Thus, Lena Fucking Punctual Kieran Luthor grew up firmly believing that being late showed a lack of good manners, courtesy, respect and professionalism. It was only polite not to waste anyone's time, just like she didn't like getting her time wasted by someone with the audacity to be late.
Kara Super Fucking Horny Zor-El, however, had other ideas. Ideas set in motion by naughty hands and amorous lips. Ideas that made Lena question such a core belief, not to mention her sanity, especially when Kara added kisses in the proceedings. Kara's kisses had a way of making her brain malfunction to the point of system failure. Now, if only Lena's brain wasn't getting too muddled to make sense of it all. Except logic seemed so far away from her grasp.
"Kara," Lena breathed, trembling between kissterruptions, "we're going to be late."
"We can be—mmph—fashionably late." Kara cupped Lena's face, fully intent on breaking down her defenses with the same tenacity when battling against her foes, using kisses and caresses as her weapons of choice. No cape needed.
"Which is still late." Lena huffed. "You know I hate being late."
"And you know I'm anxious about tonight." Kiss. "Sex will help me relax." Grope. "And you get to feel really good. Ecstatic." Kiss. With tongue. "It's a win-win."
"Karaaa." Lena squirmed and moaned in delight, despite her protest, at the wandering hands and mouth that set fire to her skin like licks of flame.
"Just a quickie then," Kara said, nibbling along Lena's neck, careful not to leave any marks. "I can fly us in later."
"Wait." Lena pushed at Kara's shoulders with great difficulty, and while that didn't produce the desired(?) effect of moving a Kryptonian back even one millimeter, Kara chose to move back a little, but not her hand because it was already placed at a strategic point of entry down below.
"You don't want to?" Kara asked, her other hand caressing the ample bosom she desperately wanted to get her mouth on.
"It's not that," Lena rasped, gasping when the hand on her breast travelled to her exposed back and down to squeeze her derrière. When Kara leaned in for more kisses, Lena placed her fingers over Kara's luscious lips to buy herself some time to think. Barely.
"You know, we could just stay here." Kara waggled her brows.
"But you're a guest speaker, and we got these gowns specifically for this themed gala, and—" Lena was horrified to find herself rambling and grasping for straws, "and we put so much effort on getting hair and makeup done. I—I'd hate for it to go to ruin 'cause—"
"I'll be careful, mo ghrá. I promise."
Lena eyed her with skepticism. It didn't help that Kara was talking to her boobs. "Eyes up here. Are you sure about that?" Kara seemed to be struggling, so Lena lifted Kara's chin up, which was a mistake because now the hunger in those eyes started burning a hole through Lena's will like heat-vision. "I—I paid a lot to get this hair like—like this. Unlike you, I don't just fly around and land with perfect, windblown hair no matter what."
"Oh, come onnn." Alex had grumbled about that, too, but Kara didn't want to think about her sister. "Pleaaase? I promise it'll be worth your while. You know it will."
Lena tried—heavens, she tried—to stay strong, to be firm. To stick to her guns. She channeled Xena Warrior Princess, a tactic she used before entering the boardroom (on time) for another face off, at times reducing grown men in power suits to tears (especially the late ones).
But then...
National City's Beacon of Hope pouted—the kind that would win a gold medal if pouting was an Olympic sport. "No quickie then?"
I am powerful. I am ruthless. I am punctual! Lena chanted in her mind in the face of such plump, delicious, protruding lips. Then came the shining eyes, the kind that sparked hope in the hearts of the forlorn, when all seemed lost until they heard Supergirl's voice, cape somehow billowing in all its majesty despite the absence of wind.
"You don't even have to do anything," Kara persisted, tracing a finger along Lena's collarbone, down to her cleavage. "I'll take really good care of you. You work sooo hard, my love. You deserve to be taken care of... don't you?"
Lena swallowed a whimper. "Y-yes, but—"
"Just think of how you'll look when they see you in Supergirl's arms, looking like you've just been fucked to queendom come." Kara crashed their mouths together and plundered Lena's mouth for a brief moment, only to retreat and whisper in her ear, "People will be so jealous. Because you're the only one for me. The only one I'll make love to. The only one I love."
"Christ!" Lena groaned. Lena wondered for a delirious moment if all Kryptonians, or at least the ones from the House of El, were just as relentless.
Kara held back a maniacal laugh when Lena squeezed her eyes shut, knowing her lover would call her a supervillain for using the exclusivity card to get her way, even though Kara meant every word. Kara knew that Lena got off on the idea of being 'Supergirl's Bae', a coveted position among her more... passionate Superfans. It was silly, even a little embarrassing, but Kara was still flattered to be considered a sex symbol. Too bad for them, Lena was the only one she was keen on loving and sexing, especially right at this moment.
"You can just sit back and let me do allll the work." Kara sensed the cracks spreading along Lena's armor. She planted moist kisses along the swells of heaving breasts. "I'll make you feel sooo good." She licked along Lena's collarbone. "Enjoy what I'll do to you." And nibbled along her neck. Kara inhaled deeply. Lena's scent proved too intoxicating, along with everything else about her, spurring Kara's need to conquer and claim. There was no turning back. They were not leaving until Kara had her fill. "Mmm, the things I want to do to you." Kara pulled back. Her tongue poked out at the corner and slid across her lips, all while eyes the color of stormy seas swept down Lena's body like a tidal wave.
"Well, if you insist," Lena said weakly, finally letting out a whimper, her body sagging in surrender. Lena Luthor didn't like to lose, but in the end, losing this battle wasn't so bad. Not when the one-woman army who laid siege was just so damn good at pillaging and plundering.
Soon, the gown was carefully set aside and Kara knelt before Lena once more, this time worshipping at her altar while Lena perched on the chair, her heeled feet planted on the vanity table. Kara had loosened the drawstring of her own pants and taken her shirt off. Topless, she went to town with the zeal of a woman recovering from a hunger strike. Being a messy eater, she did not mind getting her face, neck and chest juiced up. She was so turned on that she couldn't help touching herself, knowing there wasn't enough time to get her own needs met, so she doubled down and focused her energy on driving Lena out of her mind.
Kara was right. Lena didn't have to do anything other than sit back and enjoy every precious minute, every stroke of Kara's lips and tongue. Kara made sure Lena heard as much as felt every hungry lick, every swipe, every pull of Kara's lips on her labia. Every slurping suction on her clit. Lena gripped Kara's head and ground her throbbing pussy on her face. Lena moaned with wild abandon, letting Kara work her magic until she couldn't take it anymore. She screamed with pleasure once. Twice. More, but Lena was too far gone and lost track of how many times she reached the pinnacle, how many times her whole body shuddered. Why she even bothered to resist being ravished was beyond her. Maybe punctuality was overrated. After all, getting several mind and body melting orgasms in a row—in record time—was worth being fashionably late indeed.
~oOo~
Power couple on the rise
~ "Slow Down" by Deadrose and Marcel Xane
The National City Museum reminded Jess of the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. If she was the gala event coordinator she would have also chosen it as the perfect venue for the gala. Corinthian columns stood tall and proud, lining the perimeter of the building. The heart of the gala was situated in the open-air atrium, lined with trees and shrubs around the periphery, and connected to a lavish outdoor garden, which was backlit by yellow, red, orange and purple hues from the setting sun. Corinthian columns also surrounded the atrium, which were draped with swaths of crimson cloth.
There was a champagne and hors d'oeuvres reception at one corner, which were replenished round the clock. Numerous meze or small plates of tasty Greek nibbles and sweet and savory delights lined a long and spacious table in neat rows. Next to that was a table with a champagne tower at the center, with wine glasses stacked in a pyramid formation, filled with champagne and flanked by flutes of champagne. Next to that stood a makeshift bar lined with colorful bottles, tended by a mixologist in a toga who served custom drinks.
Round banquet tables occupied the other half of the atrium near the stage at the far end, where a live band was playing. The singer was accompanied by instruments used during Ancient Greece such as the lyre, pan-pipe flute, aulos, tympanum and harp. Overall the entire set up boasted sophistication and opulence.
"It's ironic," Jess told Sam, "that raising money for the less fortunate would cost such a pretty penny just to lure the wealthy and get them in the mood to take out their checkbooks. All this to support victims of domestic violence and abuse. It feels too... decadent." She and Sam lingered at the champagne reception.
"It's fitting for the theme, though. Weren't wealthy ancient Greeks decadent?" Sam glanced around, champagne flute in hand. "Besides, it's not like muckety-mucks would just show up to a keg party."
"True." Jess chuckled. She saw L-Corp's logo proudly displayed everywhere. These swanky events weren't really her type of scene, but since L-Corp was one of the primary sponsors, they were guaranteed a dozen tickets, which were worth thousands of dollars. Sam gave her one so they could go 'stag', as it were.
Jess was a little intimidated by how the socialites in attendance were dressed for the occasion. She felt like a commoner in her dress, a white, one-shoulder, floor-length sleeveless chiffon gown with a draped bodice. The golden waistband was adorned with sparkling sequins and beads. Her hair was braided into a low bun, on top of which rested a decorative golden leaf hair accessory.
While she knew her dress was pretty, it couldn't possibly rival the quality of the fabrics the rich wore, who probably spent several hundreds, even thousands on their attire. Jess bought the best her money can buy. Well, with Sam's credit card anyway. It was the only way Sam was able to convince her to tag along, show support for L-Corp and rub elbows with the rich and powerful. People who, as Sam insisted, Jess should meet and add to her network if she wanted to rise to power. People Sam should meet since she did rise to power and she was new to National City.
Next to her, Sam stood in her monochromatic, sleeveless, floor-length Grecian gown. The base layer was a satin, matte black, off-shoulder sheath, which hugged her body, fit yet flowing like a silhouette. A metallic silver chiffon was slung over the shoulder, draped across the front and wrapped around to the back. Soft pleats and folds shimmered with the lights, flaring at the hips and tapering towards the feet. A strappy, open-toed, rhinestone-studded, silver heel peaked from the thigh-high slit. She wore silver, leaf-shaped armbands on her biceps, with matching accessories. Her lustrous, dark chocolate hair was styled in a half-updo, with big curls at the back paired with a fancy braided crown.
"I'm not saying this to get a raise—though it sure doesn't hurt—but you look like a runway model in that dress." Jess sighed. "It's really unfair." Both her bosses were just too damn good looking for their own good, whatever they wore.
"Thank you, Jess. And no, sadly that wasn't enough to get a raise. I did let you spend my money."
"Technically you're going to charge the expense to the clothing budget."
"You got me there." Sam laughed. Lena believed that since they were representing L-Corp for a worthy, charitable cause, they should at least be partially compensated. "You look great. Good choice."
"If you say so." Jess glanced around. "I look like a vestal virgin compared to you lot."
"That's a good thing, considering some of these folks might not even make it to the pearly gates. Seriously, you look lovely."
I'm bulletproof, nothing to lose
Fire away, fire way
Ricochet, you take your aim
Jess was delighted that the band with old school instruments was playing contemporary music, currently a lively rendition of "Titanium" by Sia.
You shoot me down, but I won't fall
I am titanium.
"Have you heard from Luthor yet?" Sam asked.
Jess glanced at her text messages. "They're in a traffic jam."
"On a Saturday? But isn't she with—of all the—" Sam sighed in exasperation. She fished out her phone from her clutch and initiated a call. "Hey, boss lady. We're here. Where are you?"
"We're in my car," Lena replied on the other end, referring to her chauffeured Rolls Royce. "Stuck in traffic."
"Why the hell are you in a car? That's just lame, considering your date."
"There was a car accident. Hold on," Lena said. Sam heard a slightly muffled exchange. "Darling, you have the night off, remember?"
"But—"
"You'll ruin your dress. Mo chroí, please let somebody else handle it. You don't have to save everyone all the time."
"Lena," Sam snapped, regaining her friend's attention, "why don't you guys just go up, up and away?" To Jess, Sam whispered, "All those PhD's were wasted on her."
"I heard that!" Lena chirped. "Besides, I—" There was a slight pause, followed by a flurry of words. "I didn't want to mess up my hair, alright?"
"Are you fucking kidding me?"
"Do you know how hard it was to get an appointment with Kristoff? The man's a genius!"
"Oh for crying out loud! If she doesn't fly that fast then your hair should be fine." Sam rolled her eyes and shook her head at Lena's antics. Jess covered her mouth and chuckled softly. When Sam heard grumbling on the other line, she said, "Look, all I'm trying to say is you literally have a goddess with you. How often do you get to make a grand entrance when you're likely dressed to the nines for an expensive cosplay event?"
This time Sam heard laughter in the background, likely from Supergirl, then another muffled conversation, which Sam couldn't catch this time. "Well?"
"Fine," Lena grumbled. "We'll be there soon."
"Alrighty then. See you at the champagne reception." Sam ended the call and stuffed her phone back in her clutch. The band was now playing "Don't Stop Me Now" by Queen.
I'm a shooting star leaping through the sky
Like a tiger defying the laws of gravity,
I'm a racing car passing by like Lady Godiva
I'm gonna go, go, go,
There's no stopping me.
Jess grinned both at Sam's trademark bravado and how the music reflected a self-empowerment theme, which was a nice touch. "I can always count on you telling it like it is. I wish I could do that."
"You should. It's a time saver. Also, very therapeutic."
"But she's my boss."
"Only because she poached you." Sam mentored Jess back in Metropolis, grooming her for a bright future. She was sad to see Jess leave for National City, but she knew that working with Lena would be a good stepping stone in the company. Not to mention, Lena gained a loyal and trusted ally who could keep up with her pace. Yet, here they were, coming back full circle. "And technically I'm your boss right now. Tactfulness is a good thing, but you're free to tell me like it is, got it?"
"Got it." Jess grinned, clinking her champagne flute with Sam's.
Suddenly a collective gasp and the buzzing of conversation resounded around them.
"Look. Up in the sky!"
"Oh my God, is that—?"
"Supergirl?"
"—in a dress!"
"Who's that with her?"
Sam chuckled. "That was quick."
"Well, duh." Jess smirked.
The crowd parted and gave the new arrivals a wide berth as Supergirl floated gently to the ground with a hooded figure in her arms. Her signature sigil was embroidered in golden thread over the scarlet silk velvet himation, or Grecian cloak, that wrapped around her shoulders and draped around her body. Its edges were embellished with golden lace embroidery. She gently set down her precious cargo on the floor, who wore a two-sided himation: royal blue satin on top and violet crushed velvet on the underside, with platinum gold embroidered lace. It wrapped around the figure's body and over the head like a veil. Supergirl's companion's hands lifted over her head to grasp the edge of the fabric, then peeled it back to reveal—
"It's Lena Luthor!"
Kara helped Lena unwind the himation from her shoulders, then draped it over each elbow and let the bulk of the fabric fall behind Lena, exposing her bare back. Lena's hair was parted in the middle, with tendrils of hair framing her face. The bulk of her hair was twisted into a high bun, with a halo of ringlets that cascaded to her nape. A platinum gold, tanzanite-studded vine tiara wrapped around the base of her head to her crown. Her gaze twinkled behind smoky eye makeup and her trademark bright red lipstick shone as she smiled at her lovely companion.
People murmured around them to praise her outfit, marveling at what Kara had salivated over at the penthouse. Lena knew she looked good, as evidenced by Kara's vehement reaction. She had chosen an outfit meant to knock the socks off of one particular Kryptonian and it worked flawlessly, and that was all that mattered.
She was glad that Kara insisted on making her come so hard repeatedly before leaving the penthouse. She still felt high as a kite, still riding the wave of euphoria all those orgasms produced. Not only did Lena get lucky, she also felt like the luckiest woman here tonight, and she couldn't wipe the smugness off her face even if she tried. Their envy alone was worth every slur and backstabbing Lena would have to endure.
Kara Zor-el looked resplendent, in Lena's biased yet accurate opinion, considering all the cooing admirers around them. Kara unwound the scarlet himation from around her own shoulders, slung the ends over her elbows, and let the rest of the fabric drape behind her back. She wore a floor-length, layered, Grecian gown made of silk chiffon. The base layer was a one-shoulder, indigo silk sheath, embellished with beaded lace. A top layer of ombre blue silk chiffon, with shades of blue blending seamlessly, fading from dark to light, fell in dramatic, soft folds that draped over one shoulder to the opposite side waist, and wrapped around Kara's body. The fabric was so soft that her dress swished gently when she walked. Her feet were adorned in a pair of scarlet, ruby-studded, open-toed, strappy Stuart Weitzman heels.
"Shall we?" Kara smiled at Lena and held out her hand, palm up at shoulder level.
Beaming, Lena placed her own hand on top of Kara's, feeling like a Greek noblewoman being escorted by the most gallant suitor. Heads turned in their wake as they strolled toward the champagne reception where Sam and Jess waited. Lena basked in the attention and admiration, swelling with pride to be seen with her gorgeous date.
"Is that really Supergirl?"
"Wow, she looks fabulous in that dress."
"She should trade in the cape and cheerleader costume."
"How did Luthor manage to snag Supergirl?"
"I thought she was dating that nerdy reporter. What's her name?"
"I heard she's dating both of them."
"Lena is smokin' hot!"
"Man, I want a threesome with them."
"Screw that, I want a foursome!"
Kara soaked up the praises, not that she needed the ego stroking. She knew they made quite an impression. All the same, it felt fantastic. Of course, the snipes never went away. Even Supergirl had critics. Although, some of the remarks had a hint of envy. Kara could care less about what they had to say, choosing to focus on how lucky she felt to have the beautiful genius on her arm.
~oOo~
Hear the crowd calling your name
~ "Starstruck" by Sterling Knight
Jess stood wide-eyed as she gaped at the approaching couple. The crowd parted like the Red Sea as they strolled to where Jess and Sam stood. Apart from the obvious fact that Supergirl wasn't in her superhero outfit, there was something different about her that Jess couldn't quite put her finger on, so she took a moment to ponder.
Supergirl typically crackled with energy, even on television, always on high alert for emergencies and ready for action. Tonight, she looked relaxed, if a bit wary. Jess doubted that Supergirl frequented the gala scene to mingle and rub elbows with socialites. Still, Supergirl was so popular and had countless fans all over, so Jess wouldn't be surprised if she got mobbed even here, especially with wealthy millennials eager for a chat and a selfie with the hero.
Supergirl seemed to broadcast an 'I care but I don't give a fuck' kind of vibe. The way she swaggered and held herself tall and proud, she seemed to... smolder with animal magnetism the likes of which Jess had never seen before. It drew people in effortlessly, including herself. Already people were gathering and gawking behind the hero. Self-assured, the Kryptonian looked every bit like a goddess who came to grace the gala with her divine presence.
Lena also looked radiant in her gown, the most daring one Jess had ever seen her in. She was the embodiment of elegance, something Jess admired about her from the moment they met. Lena was unusually more relaxed in public than Jess had ever witnessed. Her smile could rival the sun and, even more astonishing, she didn't seem to be holding back the way her face lit up and broadcasted her affection for her date. Not that Jess could blame her.
The two of them side-by-side screamed 'power couple' and they sauntered about as if they owned the place. To be fair, Supergirl flew around the National City and protected it as her territory. Besides, considering the obscene amount that L-Corp donated, Lena might as well own the place indeed.
"Wow!" Jess gushed when they slowed to a stop in front of her and Sam. "You guys look sensational!"
"Thank you, Jess." Lena preened. "You and Sam look fabulous, of course."
Kara smiled. "Yes, you both look gorgeous."
"You're too kind." Jess blushed.
"Likewise." Sam smiled at Supergirl. She turned to Lena, "I don't know what you were worried about when you had a shawl over your head."
"It's called a himation. Ancient Greeks used it as a cloak," Lena said, nonplussed at the jibe. "Supergirl, I'd like you to meet Samantha Arias, L-Corp's CFO."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Arias."
"I'm very honored to meet you, Supergirl. Please call me Sam."
Usually this was the part where people expected Supergirl to reciprocate by sharing her name, and from the look on Sam's face she hoped for the same. But Kara simply did as she always did—ignore and redirect their attention to something else. This time Lena took the lead.
"Sam's daughter is a huge fan of yours."
"Oh?"
"We saw you carry the submarine at the waterfront," Sam enthused. "It was all Ruby could talk about for days! We came to see you at the Supergirl statue dedication. Ruby was really hoping to get an autograph and a selfie, but you know how that day went."
"I see. Then we'll have to make up for that." Kara grinned and Sam couldn't help but succumb to her charms.
"And you remember Jess?" Lena said.
"Hi, Supergirl." Jess waved, cheeks blushing. "I love your dress!"
"You flatter me." Kara smiled. "You can thank Lena for that."
"Oh, really? " Sam's brow raised in interest at her friend, who merely winked. "What happens when you have a superhero emergency? Do you have your cape and suit stashed somewhere nearby?"
"I'm off duty tonight." Kara shrugged. "I heard you just moved here from Metropolis. How do you like it?"
"We love it here. A lot more variety in cuisines. Also, the local superhero is a lot cuter."
Kara chuckled. "I'll be sure to let my cousin know."
Lena laughed inside, amazed at how poised Sam was. She just hoped she would behave for the rest of the evening and not grill Supergirl the way she grilled her other persona at last week's happy hour.
"Can I get you ladies another drink?" Kara asked.
"Sure." Sam nodded.
"I'm still working on mine," Jess replied.
"Champagne would be lovely, darling."
"Here, let me take that." Kara took Lena's himation and folded it, folding her own next. "I might as well stop by the coat check-in. I'm sure you could all use some catching up." Kara lifted Lena's hand and kissed her knuckles, winking at her and nodding at the other two before she sauntered off while the band played "Girl on Fire" by Alicia Keys.
Everybody stares as she goes by
Cause they can see the flame that's in her eyes
Watch her as she's lighting up the night.
Three pairs of eyes watched the retreating figure. People flocked around her like seagulls vying for breadcrumbs. Even celebrities were tongue-tied. Lena could relate. She was just as starstruck when she first met the superhero after the helicopter incident. She couldn't believe they were sharing the same space and breathing the same air, seeing her up close when previously she had only seen her on the news.
Tonight, her beloved's confidence was on another level. Lena could tell the clothes and accessories helped, the way they might help an actress step into character. Not that Kara was pretending to be someone else. Quite the opposite in fact. She was wearing something that, to Lena, clearly represented the goddess that Kara truly was: powerful, enchanting, charismatic and benevolent. Not to mention sexy as hell.
Lena had to admit just watching Kara walking about made her chest tighten and her stomach do somersaults. There was something... dangerous about her lover. Kara was like a jaguar prowling the Amazon jungle, unperturbed by anacondas, black caimans, piranhas or other predators that lurked about. Here in the concrete jungle, adversaries crossed her path at their own peril. Kara also radiated the kind of danger that would have fathers slamming the door and locking the deadbolt to keep their horny daughters safe from her clutches. It thrilled Lena to experience this side of her lover in private, but to witness it in public had her creaming her panties.
She didn't need to have super hearing to know that people were fawning over her lover. The men wouldn't dare to lay a hand, but some of the women were quite brazen with the way they touched or squeezed arms of steel while complimenting Kara's dress and hair. They plastered themselves against Kara when the gala photographer stopped by to take pictures, but Lena wasn't worried. She knew Kara only had eyes for her, just as she only had eyes for Kara. Her beloved would smile politely and back away, only to be swallowed up by another crowd.
Sam noticed Jess watching avidly. "You're a Superfan, huh?"
"Who isn't?" Jess replied, cheeks pinking. She asked Lena, "Where did you get your gowns? They're fantastic."
"I hired a costume designer from Ireland who works on period movies and television."
"Fancy," Sam remarked. "I thought she might show up in her superhero costume. How did you get her to wear a dress?"
"I have my ways."
"I'm sure." Sam smirked.
"How did you manage to get Supergirl to take the night off?" Jess asked.
"It took some convincing, that's for sure."
"Not her cup of tea?" Sam asked.
"She'd much rather be doing something useful."
"She did attend an L-Corp gala a while back," Jess said. "It was a fundraiser for the children's hospital. Kara was there, too."
"Really?" Sam's brow raised. She asked Lena, "So were the three of you already—"
"Just friends," Lena supplied.
Jess coughed once before sipping on her cocktail. Sam caught on, saying, "Something tells me that's a load of crap."
"Jess, care to comment?" Lena asked.
"Oh, um..." Jess' eyes swung back and forth between her two bosses.
"It's okay," Lena added, "I'm simply curious about what you think of all this."
Sam nodded. "Jess, you saw a lot of what went on from the start, didn't you?"
Lena scoffed. "As if you don't already know."
"Oh, no, Miss Luthor. I would never betray your confidence!" At Lena's raised brow, Jess added, "I only shared the harmless things."
"Yeah, I really had to needle some scoop from this one, but all I got was a few boring facts."
"You get to keep your job, then." Lena chuckled at Jess. "You still haven't answered my question."
"I didn't really see Supergirl in your office much, but Kara did drop by quite a bit, sometimes for work, other times just to visit. She's really nice. She also brings me snacks or coffee."
"See?" Sam singsonged, "Bo—ring."
Jess continued, "I just found it amusing—" and downright ridiculous "—how you and Kara insisted that you were 'just friends' when it was clear that there was something more, something electric between you."
"Who were you rooting for?" Sam asked.
Jess pressed her lips together. "They're both wonderful and make Lena so happy, and that's all that really matters."
"What a cop out." Sam sighed. "Jess, you'd make a good politician. Lena, you're one person short of a threesome. Where's Little Miss Sunshine?"
"She's been to a few of these with me already, so I thought I'd bring Supergirl for a change."
"Why not both? Clearly they've been to the same gala before."
"Kara was my plus one and Supergirl was working, so that doesn't count. Besides, it's different now. I'm not sure we're ready for such... scrutiny. I'd really hate for the three of us to be the center of gossip for the night."
"Too late. You guys are still hot gossip fodder."
"It's easier when only one of them is present," Lena replied. More than you know. "Supergirl and I get hounded by the press all the time. I'd rather keep Kara out of it."
Jess excused herself, leaving Sam to her own devices, to Lena's chagrin, knowing what was coming next.
"Daaayum, Luthor." Sam whistled in disbelief. "It's one thing to see her on the news, but another thing to see her in person, you know? She's incredible." Sam pursed her lips. "And you tap that."
"Don't be crude," Lena scoffed, but inside she was patting herself on the back.
"Her sex appeal is off the charts! What's she like in bed?"
"Oh, God."
"I bet you scream that a lot. In fact, I'll bet that's why you're late. God forbid Lena Luthor's ever late to anything. You look so freshly well-fucked." Lena responded with a friendly smack on Sam's arm, but Sam was unphased. "Seriously, is your penthouse still intact? Do you have to buy new furniture every week?"
"I don't know what you mean."
"You know, Jess nearly fainted when she dusted off your desk." When Lena frowned in confusion at the non-sequitur, Sam added, "I guess you couldn't hide two hand-shaped dents for too long. Who uses file organizers anymore, two of them even? And in such an odd placement, Miss I Like Order and Symmetry."
Shit.
Lena schooled her features to keep her eyes from falling off their sockets. She willed herself to stay calm, but she couldn't stop the blush from creeping up her neck and spreading to the tips of her ears. She just hoped no carotid arteries would burst nor any blood would spurt from her nose as she remembered in vivid detail how Day Job Kara had surprised her one day with a present in her pants. Apparently, she'd changed in the restroom before stepping into her office and locking the doors. Kara had bent Lena over her desk facing the window. Lena was thankful the windows had a reflective tint on the outside while Kara had her palms on the desk pounding away carefully. But sometimes holding back didn't mean the furniture was safe. They were lucky that most of her desk stayed intact.
She glared at Sam. "You are such a perv."
Sam grinned. "I think it's hot. And the balcony must have been convenient for fly-by delights. I'm just surprised your couch is still standing. How did you even get any work done? Or keep quiet for that matter?"
"Will you just stop?" Lena could feel herself turning redder by the second.
"I bet you regret giving me your office, huh? I've seen your digs at Catco. All that wide open space and glass walls."
"Sam, quit it. She can hear you." Lena felt like steam was coming out of her ears. She could really use that champagne Kara was supposed to get. Where the hell is she?!
"Yeah?" Sam glanced around in alarm. She whispered, "What do you think she'll do?"
What Kara should be doing is returning ASAP, that's what. "Do you really want to find out?"
Sam harrumphed. "What's Supergirl's real name anyway?"
"Sorry. Top secret."
"Oh, come on."
"I just told you she can hear you. Besides, it's not mine to tell. She didn't even tell me for at least a year."
"Fine. Can you at least tell me what she wears in her downtime? Tank tops and daisy dukes? Flannel, skintight jeans and cowboy boots? Ooh, does she ride a horse?"
Lena's brow simply rose slowly, eyes glinting as she stole Sam's champagne flute and sipped, biding her time till Sam groaned, muttering, "You're no fun." To Lena's relief, Sam turned away to talk to someone else.
~oOo~
Hotter than a fantasy, lonely like a highway
~ "Girl on Fire" by Alicia Keys
Kara sighed, finally arriving at the coat check-in station. It took some maneuvering to get there. She held out the cloaks to the coat check attendant, who was currently gaping and seemed frozen in place. Kara had to clear her throat to get the poor girl to snap out of it. She just wanted to go back to Lena. She felt too exposed on her own, like a magnet surrounded by paper clips, screws and bolts scattered everywhere.
"S-sure, Supergirl. Uh, l-let me take that for you," the girl said, fumbling with her glasses and nearly dropping the cloaks. "If you don't mind my saying so, you look gorgeous! Er, I mean your dress is just, like, holy crap. I mean, pretty! Is that new? I mean, of course it's new! Sorry, it's just—"
"Thank you. I'm flattered that you think so." Kara smiled gently. Is this what I'm like as Danvers? She took the claim ticket and stuffed it in her dress pocket.
"I do! And um..." The girl wrung her hands. "Do you, uh, mind if—I mean, c-can I, er, get a selfie with you?"
"Sure." Kara posed for a quick picture next to the girl then went on her merry way to fetch drinks as promised.
Despite Kara Zor-El's reservations about being seen as other than her two public personas, Lena was right—deep down, her invisible self wanted to be seen. She didn't want to be just a Kryptonian posing as a human, or to be an alienated alien. She didn't want to be just a superhero or a symbol. She was more than her race and her abilities. She was a daughter, a sister, a cousin, a friend, a lover. She was someone who liked to paint and take photos and tend gardens, who liked karaoke and pot stickers and game nights. She was proud of her heritage and wanted to help others with her gifts. Someone who loved deeply and was cherished in return.
Being forced to hide her true nature from the moment she landed on Earth had instilled a level of anxiety and fear of rejection that was difficult to shake, especially when cameras flashed and news traveled faster than a speeding bullet. She went from being encouraged by her parents to grow into her fullest potential to striving to appear less than average on Earth.
She really just wanted to be Kara Zor-El, to be the best version of herself, as a Kryptonian, an honorary Earthling, all those other things and more. She just wanted people to accept her, and also not to kill her or her loved ones. But as Lena said before, she didn't need to share all of herself with the world, just the parts she was willing to share.
"What parts of your invisible self want to be seen, mo chroí?" Lena had asked one evening while holding Kara in her arms in bed and stroking her hair.
After contemplating, Kara said, "When I was new on Earth, I loved looking through fashion magazines. I wished that I could dress up in stylish clothes instead of the drab outfits Alex made me wear. I hated having to make myself look insignificant and forgettable. That's not how I grew up."
"How did you dress in Krypton?"
"We dressed as befits our social status. The House of El is a proud and noble line of renowned, high-ranking scientists. Some were members—or even heads—of the Science Council. Heads of the guild councils were also members of the High Council."
"So, youare genetically predisposed to be a nerd." She giggled when Kara poked her side. Despite her teasing, Lena was in awe. She wondered what it must have been like to be a member of the scientific elite in a technologically advanced society. Kara's knowledge of the universe, even for a thirteen-year-old who landed on a backwards planet, was light years ahead of Earth's most celebrated scientists. Geeking out with her was more exciting than when Lena met Stephen Hawking in person, and probably even more exhilarating than meeting Marie Curie, Ada Lovelace, or Rosalind Franklin combined.
"It sounds as if your house was like royalty in the sciences," Lena wondered out loud.
"I suppose so," Kara said, lightly scratching Lena's hip. "We didn't have royalty like here on Earth, but if we did, the House of El would probably be members of the aristocracy. Although my family and Kal's weren't pretentious snobs, we still maintained a level of sophistication."
"I can relate to that last part. It's a staple of high society."
The truth was, when Kara met Lena, she was dazzled by the way the CEO carried herself, not just because she was gorgeous with impeccable fashion sense. Being around someone so classy made Kara want to keep up somehow. Most of all, Kara wanted Lena to notice her, to see her. Little by little Kara found herself starting to wear nicer outfits, but it was tricky. She still needed to stay under the radar as Danvers. To her delight, dating Lena publicly gave her the excuse to dress nicer because it was expected dating behavior that one should upgrade to not look like a schmuck. She knew people at work prayed that a posh CEO like Lena wouldn't be embarrassed to be seen with Kara in her questionable fashion choices.
"Okay." Lena's problem-solving mode automatically switched on, determined to help. "So, we'll make sure you look glamorous. That's easy. What else?"
"I wish I don't have to worry about saving the day." This part was difficult, but Kara still desired it. Donning the cape had taken the whole work-life balancing act to a new level. Sometimes even Supers needed a break. "I guess what I really want is to be out there, superpowers and all, but not be expected to work when I'm there as your date."
"You could take the night off and let the DEO and the police take care of things without you," Lena suggested. Dating Supergirl was like dating a doctor on call who had to be prepared for an emergency 24/7. "National City had first responders long before Supergirl came along. They shouldn't have to rely on you so much when they're getting paid to do their jobs and you're working pro bono."
"Easier said than done when I have super-hearing. Super habits die hard."
And that was just one reason Lena loved and admired Kara so much. She sincerely wanted to help because she could. "Okay, we'll have to work on that. Anything else?" Lena asked. Kara gazed at her in silence. "What?"
"I wish I didn't have to hide how I really feel about you," Kara whispered, making Lena's breath hitch. Kara rolled Lena onto her back, making sure to support her weight on her forearms. "How much you mean to me. How much I love you." Lena's eyes glistened. Her mouth fell open, but words failed her. "Sometimes when we're in public," Kara continued, "I get so overwhelmed with how I feel when I look at you. I get this urge to just kiss you like crazy."
"I can relate," Lena whispered back. She grabbed Kara's face and pulled her down to kiss her with all the love she felt and let her body do all the talking. It took a long while, but she definitely got her point across.
At present, Kara wondered who she was truly seeking acceptance from. She appreciated her Earth family's and Lena's, of course. Maybe Lena was right, that perhaps she just needed to give herself permission to just be Kara, to put herself out there, regardless of whether the world accepted her or not. It won't be easy, but she would at least try, even just a little. Baby steps.
"Supergirl is what I do," she once told Lena. "Kara Zor-El is who I am."
Tonight she would explore what that might be like. She didn't need to show the world everything because, as Lena said, sometimes it's good to leave people guessing. She didn't need to be an open book in a high stakes world where not everyone deserved her trust. So, here she was, doing a test run even if the audience was not her usual crowd. She allowed people to call her Supergirl because that was who they thought they were talking to. It was a start.
She couldn't wait to stand by Lena's side. Kara felt proud to be her date. Lena had gifted her with a beautiful gown, shoes and accessories that made her feel like everywhere was her catwalk. Kara listened to Justin Timberlake and got her sexy on. It wasn't hard after Lena floored her in the dressing room, looking like temptation itself. Being with Lena made her feel like Casanova, and she high-fived herself for piercing through Lena's resistance earlier, licking her to a screaming crescendo, one after another. It made Lena even more scrumptious afterward, and Kara was hungry for more. She was by no means done appreciating her lover, but she had to put a little distance between them or else she might give this crowd a show, especially with the smoldering looks that Lena threw her way. She could tell that Lena was getting off on other people checking her out like she was on the menu. Okay, so maybe Kara was a closet exhibitionist, and as long as Lena looked at her the way she did, Kara was okay with that.
Kara smiled when she heard the band playing "Roar" by Katy Perry. It was quite refreshing to hear the sound of pop songs on Grecian instruments.
I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter
Dancing through the fire
'Cause I am a champion, and you're gonna hear me roar
Louder, louder than a lion.
Kara grabbed a few drinks and a meze plate filled with Mediterranean delights to nibble on. Then, she squared her shoulders, held her head up high, took a deep breath, and swaggered back to her beloved as her invisible catwalk required, turning heads along the way.
~oOo~
Stunner number one superstar
~ "Get This Party Started" by P!nk
Lena linked arms with Kara as they mingled. Their connection helped to ground Lena. She'd been steeling herself all evening against the usual anti-Luthor barbs, but as it turned out, she had little to worry about. Even though many approached them, they were far more interested in Supergirl.
Kara was such a trooper despite constantly getting surrounded. Lena hadn't realized how truly popular Supergirl was until tonight, that she had fans everywhere, even here, including celebrities. People paid close attention to whatever she did, and they were especially fascinated and enthralled now that she was out of her super suit. Being a private person, Lena was in awe of how Kara managed to tolerate the scrutiny and never-ending questions. She relaxed a little, quite happy to not be the center of attention and play the role of—as Kara had called her time and again—arm and eye candy.
Or an overdressed pilot.
Lena made sure to steer them away from unsavory guests, but sometimes they would show up when least expected. At the moment a group of politicians surrounded Supergirl to ask for her opinion.
"Senator ShezNek," Kara said. She was grateful that Lena told her people's names in a voice only Kara could hear. She couldn't remember them all. "To be frank, I don't like talking about politics."
"But you are quite a political figure and have been very outspoken about your views. Why stop now?"
"Let me rephrase. I prefer to take action. People can state their opinions all they want, but if all it does is go nowhere, when no action to help others is taken, then it's a waste of time. I don't like to waste my time when I can be out there helping others directly."
Someone scoffed. "Politicians do help."
"Some do and are sincere about helping, Senator Princy," Kara said. "Some don't do enough when they have the power to do more."
"You are too idealistic, Supergirl," Senator Princy replied. "The world doesn't operate as smoothly as you would like. Some changes take time to implement."
"So you agree that bureaucracy often gets in the way? Those who need help shouldn't have to wait so long because of it. My so-called 'idealism' has saved many lives time and again."
Senator ShezNek fired back, "Who are you to act like a god and decide over the fates of humans?"
"I never claimed to be one," Kara replied unfazed. She didn't choose to have powers, but she could definitely choose not to stoop to their level. "People all over the world call for help every minute of every day. I don't have to. I don't get paid to help, but I still do it because I can. So I use my powers to help."
Lena switched direction and started to lead her away when a younger group stepped in front of them and asked for a group selfie with Supergirl.
Afterwards Kara was eagerly asked, "How do you get your hair to stay perfect, flying and fighting and all?"
"What hair products do you use, Supergirl?"
"Not this again," Kara told Lena under her breath. Why do people keep asking about my hair? She tried to smile, hoping it didn't look too forced. "Nothing special. Maybe it's a Kryptonian thing?" Kara looked pointedly at Lena, blinking as if sending an S.O.S. to get the hell out of there.
Lena quickly steered them towards a circle she was more familiar with: tech heads. Immediately they swarmed around the couple like bees.
"How fast can you fly, Supergirl?"
Kara blew out a breath, grateful for the topic change. "Well, once I was clocked at Mach 2 while casually flying."
"No way! The speed of sound is Mach 1. And Mach 2 was only casual for you?"
Kara shrugged. "I don't exactly wear a speedometer."
"Mlod can make one for you," someone offered.
"FlameEGB can do it better."
Kara had heard of the tech startups but didn't know much more than that. And she wasn't about to encourage a pissing contest. "That's cool, but I'm not sure I really need one. It's not like I'm racing someone." Although that might be fun if Barry was around. "Besides, even if I were, I can already beat Superman. So, no contest there." That prompted more chuckles.
"What's it like to break the sound barrier?"
"It's a lot of fun!" Kara beamed. "The other day I let some Blackbird fighter jets chase me for fun when they were training at Rainbow Canyon in Death Valley."
"Whoa, SR-71 Blackbirds can fly at Mach 3.3!"
"Uh-huh." Kara leaned in and stage-whispered with a wry smile, "I had to slow down sometimes so they could keep up."
The people around them laughed, utterly charmed. Lena couldn't resist bragging. "Obviously, she can go faster. She has chased after space shuttles flying at about Mach 25 after all."
"Oh yeah, that's right!"
"Hey Lena, we should partner up." Kara glanced at the name badge, which simply said 'David12leca', but Lena seemed to recognize him. "I think we could—"
Kara was thankful for the reprieve. She was glad they engaged Lena for a change and talked shop. Going around and mingling was exhausting. Some of the topics were so mundane, as if they didn't know what else to say. Sometimes they just asked something they were very curious about. This round was at least entertaining. Nerds and geeks she could handle.
Interestingly, she met a Broadway star with a French last name or other. It was almost like looking at a mirror, only the mirror showed a brunette. She couldn't wait to tell Lena all about her.
~oOo~
Lena, Kara, Jess and Sam ended up sharing their banquet table with wildlife and environmental activists and supporters. Kara appreciated being around people who believed in helping others and represented various causes they were passionate about. By that point, she and Lena stopped bothering with name badges. There were just too many.
"Supergirl, if you didn't have your powers, what would you be doing?"
Kara had been asking herself just that for such a long time now. She replied, "Good question. I'm not sure, but it would definitely be something about helping others."
"Supergirl, how do you decide who to rescue and help?"
"Sometimes it's random. I could be passing by and there would be people who need rescuing along the way. Sometimes I look up and there might be a plane in trouble or terrorists in a submarine shooting torpedoes at the waterfront. Sometimes I get called in, like when there's a forest fire or a bomb explosion."
"What happens when they're all happening at once?"
"I have to make a pragmatic, split-second decision, which is always difficult to make. I can't be everywhere or help everyone all at once."
"I don't know what it must be like for you," someone from the World Wildlife Fund said. "There are a lot of requests to save this tiger or this polar bear or that rhino from all over the world. There aren't enough resources or space to house all of them and care for them. We can only help so much."
"That's right," Kara replied. "There's only so much you can do. It's impossible to rescue them all. I do what I can, whenever and wherever I can. I'm glad there are people like you who also do what you can to help."
"I heard you rescued some whale sharks and manta rays in the Caribbean recently," someone from Oceana mentioned. "It's really wonderful that you also take the time to help our animal allies."
Kara nodded in acknowledgment. "I couldn't just let such noble creatures stay tangled up in fishnets and fishing lines. It was cutting into their flesh!"
"Thank you for also hauling out so much plastic waste floating in the sea!"
"It was a horrible sight and so dangerous for the animals and marine life," Kara said, getting murmurs of assent around her. "I should be thanking you all for doing what you can to raise awareness about such heinous issues."
"It's not as direct as what you do."
Kara replied, "But it's still a good thing to champion such efforts."
"Thank you! That means a lot, Supergirl."
"Supergirl, where do you get the energy to do all that you do?"
"The sun." Kara smiled.
Lena added, "She's like a walking, flying solar panel."
Kara appreciated the people who personally thanked her for things she had done, not because she needed praise but because she was glad to know her efforts did make an impact. She was among people who cared enough to make a difference in the world.
"Hi, I'm from Doctors Without Borders. I just wanted to thank you so much for rescuing our medical supply shipments from those awful pirates in the Caribbean." Kara pressed her lips together to hold her amusement, imagining Winn giggling. "We're so grateful that our supplies reached the people they were meant for instead of being sold in the black market."
Kara smiled. "You're welcome."
Lena asked quietly, "When did you even find the time to battle pirates?"
Kara pressed her lips again, this time to suppress the smugness that bubbled up from within. She took a deep breath and whispered back, "I believe you were resting. You were quite dehydrated at the time."
"Oh no," someone said, a Miss Ficaddy. Apparently, they weren't quiet enough. "I hope you drank plenty of water to replenish your fluids?"
"Indeed," Lena replied, clearing her throat. "I'm sure we're all grateful that Supergirl has admirable stamina. Helping not only myself to... recover."
Kara glanced at her and the others. "What can I say? It gives me great pleasure to service those in need." This time Kara couldn't hold back her grin. When she turned to Lena, she couldn't help the corner of her lips from lifting or her eyes from telegraphing the fire that burned inside. Lena's lips parted, and though the inhalation wasn't loud, Kara still heard it as well as Lena's heartbeat, which sped up. Soon enough Lena reached for the glass in front of her that contained a small amount of iced water.
"Would you like some more water?" Kara tried not to leer.
Lena licked her lips in retaliation. "Maybe later."
Just then the gala director stopped by. "Supergirl, we can't thank you enough for coming. It means so much to us to have you here," he said with sincere gratitude.
"I'm happy to be here for a worthy cause," Kara asked. "I thought fundraiser galas typically attract a niche group, but it's wonderful that you've got supporters from other types of causes tonight."
"Your reputation alone was a huge draw for gaining more supporters for our cause." He smiled. "Word spread that you were attending and participation skyrocketed."
"Are you saying some of them came to see me?"
"You're a celebrity, of course they came to see you."
"But... I'm not here to parade myself as a celebrity."
"Think of it this way. They didn't have to come tonight. These galas do have a cost to attend, and that money goes to charity. Your presence alone is helping to generate funds to support services for victims of domestic violence."
Lena had said as much. Kara had been skeptical about attending mainly because she didn't want to feel like she was being used, but since it wasn't a job and her being there would draw additional support, she decided that maybe just being there was a way to help, so that made all this mingling a little more bearable. But goddammit, she needed a break!
"I'll stop by again when it's time for speeches." The gala director nodded and moved on to another table.
Deciding to take the reins, Kara suddenly asked the woman representing Oceana, "What's your favorite animal?"
"Oh. Whale sharks actually."
No wonder she was so happy. Kara smiled. "Coming right up!"
Kara froze some water into a chunk of ice, grabbed a steak knife and speed-sculpted it into a great fish with fins, which even had spots along its body, and a wide gaping mouth. The people around their table erupted in applause.
"And you, sir?" Kara asked the man from the World Wildlife Fund.
"Elephants."
Kara froze some more water and soon enough speed-sculpted an elephant with its big floppy ears, tusks and an upturned trunk. Once again claps and cheers resounded around the table.
"For you, Sam?"
Sam smiled. "How about a soccer ball for my daughter, Ruby? With your sigil if possible. And, uh..."
"Yes?"
"Can I record you on video so she knows it's really you? Or pose for a selfie or something?"
"Sure. Her name's spelled R-U-B-Y?" At Sam's nod, Kara went through the motions. Sam's mouth fell open in awe when the finished product included the telltale pentagons and Ruby's name below Supergirl's family crest. Staring at Sam's phone, Kara said, "Hi Ruby, I hope you like this. It might not be intact anymore since ice melts. The 'S' is my family's sigil and family motto, 'El Mayarah' which means 'stronger together'."
Jess murmured, "Ruby is going to flip!"
For Lena, Kara froze some water mixed with red wine and speed-sculpted it into a bouquet of plumerias on a vase, which she placed on a plate in front of her love. People applauded and hooted around them.
Lena's heart fluttered, cheeks pinking. "Thank you, mo chroí," Lena whispered in Kara's ear, "You're the sweetest person I've ever met. God, I wanna kiss you so bad."
Kara suddenly felt shy, but it didn't last long when she remembered what Lena had replied to her earlier teasing. And while Kara did just give her some water, she planned to make good on her promise later. Till then, she winked at Lena and whispered back, "Maybe later."
~oOo~
Do you quickly want to fall in love?
~ "Lust at First Sight" by Viola Hutchinson
After a stunt like that, it was inevitable that the questions that followed would be centered on the loving couple. No matter how many times Kara and Lena sidestepped or even ignored them in the past, curiosity only grew like weeds.
"Supergirl, if you don't mind my asking, how did you and Miss Luthor meet?" someone at their table asked.
"Was it during the L-Corp renaming ceremony?" another chimed in.
"It was before that." Kara decided to stick to facts. "I rescued her helicopter from a drone attack."
"When did you start dating?"
"Fairly recently," Lena replied, opting for vague answers.
"Was it love at first sight?"
Kara paused in consideration. "I normally don't like to talk about my personal life." Kara glanced at Lena. Facts are facts. "But I'll tell you this much. I've always found Lena very beautiful, since the first moment I laid eyes on her."
"I was thinking the same thing," Lena added, her cheek forming double dimples. "I mean, who wouldn't?" People nodded and murmured their assent all around them.
"Despite what tabloids may say, Lena's wonderful." Kara caressed Lena's hand beneath the table and gazed at her with all the love in her heart and soul. "She truly has a good heart. Beauty, brains and a beautiful soul. I'm lucky I get to see that side of her." The people around them cooed and some even clapped. As they did, Kara mouthed, "Five stars."
Lena melted at the public declaration, giggling when Kara flashed all five fingers on one hand. If it weren't for their audience, she would have grabbed her lover and kissed her senseless. So instead, she squeezed Kara's free hand and hoped that Kara could feel the waves of love Lena was sending her way. Kara leaned over to whisper in her ear, "Not to mention you've got five stars in bed."
Lena tried to suppress it, but she felt her cheeks suffuse with heat. She whispered back, "You are getting super lucky later." But before Kara could fire a flirty remark back—
"Were you concerned with her family's reputation?" Another person asked Supergirl, then hurriedly told Lena, who had stiffened, "No offense."
"Not really. I'm more concerned that she keeps getting into trouble," Kara replied, gently squeezing Lena's hand to calm her. People chuckled around them.
Lena scoffed. "It's not like I asked for assassination attempts or getting framed for things I didn't do. Trouble finds me."
"I beg to differ. There was that one gala you asked me to protect. You forgot to mention you were intentionally luring the bank robbers with alien guns, which they used on me for target practice, thank you very much. You used me as a decoy so you could trap them and disable their photon cannons."
"I knew you could handle it." Lena smirked. "And I did stop their weapons so you could apprehend them."
"See what I have to put up with?" Kara told the crowd, who laughed at their antics. "She actually has quite a mean right hook. I've seen her deck a sparring partner."
Lena simpered quietly, knowing exactly which one Kara referred to. She had been sparring with Alex at the DEO for the first time, waiting for the 3D printer to complete. Alex had the audacity to goad Lena to hit her with her best shot.
Unfortunately for Alex, Lena was incensed that day when she found out that Kara sparred with DEO agents in a room with green kryptonite. It didn't matter that they emitted lower levels of radiation, but the fact of the matter was that it was still radiation that was toxic to Kryptonians. She didn't want the exposure to keep building up over time and cause irreparable damage. And since Alex was part of the problem, Lena took out her frustration on her with a wallop.
"How would you like it if this room was emitting plutonium and you had to spend at least an hour of every day in it, huh?"
After getting a scolding and a shiner, which Alex took in stride, Alex convinced J'onn to bring in Lena to make improvements. So, she redesigned the lighting to include both red and yellow-sun lamps in the training room. She also upgraded the yellow sun lamps in the med bay to ensure Kara would recharge faster.
"I've also punched the lights out of a black belt," Lena said, recalling Beth Breen. It would never be enough to get her arrested for what she did to Jack, but it was still satisfying that Lena was able to personally kick her ass. She looked at Kara. "I've survived a bunch of assassination attempts on my own before we met, so obviously I'm not a total wreck."
"I know. You're one tough cookie." Kara smiled with affection. "But I'll always have your back."
TBC
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Outfits
You can find them on my Tumblr athenaverse-world. Come say hi! 😎 Rao, describing them kicked. My. Ass! (Another reason it took me a while to post this.)
End Notes
I hope you enjoyed this chapter despite the wait. At the last minute I decided to split the gala into a 2-parter because the draft was already at 17K words and still going. (That's what happens when writing in sections. More ideas pop up.)
I meant to post sooner. Sadly, I slipped down the stairs, banged up my elbow, and got a bone fracture on my ankle. That took off a lot of steam—I was on a creative roll, too! Still on an orthopedic boot and crutches for another 2 months or so. All while job hunting, which itself is a full time job! I plugged into this when I could.
Btw, I could really use some encouragement so I can keep going! Thank you to those who do leave comments - I read them all and respond to as many as I can. I especially enjoy the zany ones. :)
Lastly, this past long weekend I celebrated my birthday and when asked what I really wanted to do, I honestly just wanted to complete this chapter and share it with you. So, I happily dedicated some time to do just that! Let me know what you think and feed my motivation. :)
Let me know what you think and feed my motivation. :)