Kryptonian Nights 19
Deanlu
Supergirl is the property of DC comics and the CW. I am borrowing the characters for a little fun and storytelling. These are about the many facets of love.
Hope for those we love
Kara dressed before the sun rose. She looked across the room at where Maggie, Alex, and Lena still slept on the couch and floor. The ladies had spent the night drinking wine, playing games, and just chatting. It was a nice way to decompress after a long week. Kara didn't want to wake them as they needed their sleep. She placed her phone in her back pocket while leaving a note on the counter. She grabbed the reusable shopping bags and her drawing satchel. Kara removed her beach bike off the wall and quietly set it in the hallway of her complex. She set the coffee pot to start fifteen minutes after she left. She closed the door and locked it. She moved to the elevator with bike, satchel, and bags. Once outside she got everything situated and mounted the bike. Just as the young reporter rode off Alex and Lena were waking. It wasn't that she didn't want to spend the day with them. She just had other ideas today. She rode for fifteen minutes enjoying the quiet, slowness of the morning.
"Thought you weren't coming for a moment there." The young woman on a sleek yellow Nel Lusso beach cruiser commented as Kara pulled up next to her. The sun was just starting to rise over the horizon bringing gorgeous splashes of color through the sky.
"You should know by now I am pretty dependable." Kara responded to Lucy Lane as she hugged her. "When are you going to tell Alex and Jonn that you're back in town to stay?" Lucy kissed Kara's cheek holding on for a little longer. Lucy released the young Kryptonian. Kara took the measure of the youngest Lane. She was recovering well since coming home injured from her time in Afghanistan. The gaunt thin almost translucent skin was gone now. Weeks of hospital stays now replaced with tanned skin and muscle. Lucy had only allowed Kara to know she had lost her left leg while in combat. Lois had called Kara when Lucy asked for the youngest Kryptonian. Supergirl had made many a trip to Walter Reed Army Medical Hospital. Kara had also called on several specialists she knew to assist in Lucy's recovery. Now months later after several surgeries Lucy had a strong titanium leg. She still had physical therapy twice a week on top of weekly appointments with her psychologist for PTSD. Kara had been by her side though it all. Lucy had depended on her. Her father had been subtly absent after his first visit. The patriarch not being able to stomach his daughters injury and the guilt her carried over it. He had sent Lucy to Afghanistan after she had sided with the Super against him. He thought she would turn back to his ideals and thinking. It only reinforced her belief in the Super. Kara never abandoned her. Her father had. The weird part of all of it was Lucy had forced a promise from Kara not to tell their friends.
"Soon. I just need a little more time Kara. Please." The youngest Lane pleaded with the Super. Kara placed a hand on Lucy's cheek. Kara nodded though she didn't agree.
"Come on. I want to get to the farmers market on the bay front early. There's a new coffee truck I want to try for breakfast." Kara indicated as she pointed toward the harbor area. Lucy nodded mounting her bike. They were off pedaling along the city streets. The cool morning air breezed past them as the purples of dawn gave way to the red, oranges, and yellows of morning. Lucy's laughter echoed next to Kara as they weaved back and forth along the bike path to National City's harbor while the young reporter teased her. They arrived after a twenty minute ride to find the local food trucks set up near the newest mermaid statue. Lucy and Kara parked their bikes in a nearby rack and put on their locks. Kara slung her drawing satchel across her shoulder. She then picked up her reusable shopping bags while Lucy pulled her backpack on over her shoulders. Once ready they walked over to the Grind House food truck.
"Good morning Albert. Could I get a medium Chai Latte, a medium Cinnamon Latte with a dash of nutmeg, two croque monsieur, one of the open faced power house breakfast sandwiches with egg whites, avocado, and tomato, and a medium Carribean fruit bowl to share?" Kara looked over at Lucy who nodded and went to get a table nearby for them.
"Okay, give me fifteen twenty minutes for the breakfast Kara. Your coffee's will be done in ten. I'll call for you when ready. You're early this morning." Albert responded as his wife, Mina and his brother, Greg, started the order. Kara wandered over to the table and set down with Lucy. Lucy was enjoying the morning sunrise. Kara pulled out her sketch book beginning a new sketch as they waited for their food.
"So, you're settled in your new apartment. How is the job search going?" The young reporter asked the former soldier. The young reporter could tell Lucy was still struggling with her injury. She was still self-conscious over how people saw her body with her injury. Kara had gotten her to wear cargo shorts today which showed off the titanium leg. It wasn't what Lucy had wanted at first, but Kara didn't want Lucy suffering in the morning heat.
"It's going well actually. Henderson, Anderson, and Jacobs have hired me. They needed a corporate lawyer who can handle themselves since their last one retired this summer. I start Monday. I'll spend the first few days getting oriented to the office and reviewing cases." Lucy explained as Kara heard her name called. The young reporter set down the sketch pad and went over to the truck bringing back their coffees.
"What did they say about the weekly time you would need for physical therapy and appointments with your psychologist?" Kara asked as she sipped her coffee and continued to sketch. Lucy took a drink of chai as she pulled the jacket around her from the chill in the morning air.
"They were actually very agreeable. They told me if I need any time just to submit to HR and it would be approved." Lucy answered as Kara reached across grabbing her hand.
"That's wonderful Lucy. I'm so happy for you." Kara exclaimed as she squeezed her hand. Kara heard her name called again and retrieved their breakfast. Lucy groaned in ecstasy over her open faced sandwich. The partial sketch of Lucy laid off to the side made the youngest Lane blush. Kara returned with their food putting away her sketch pad as Lucy began eating. Kara was relieved to see Lucy's appetite finally back after months of barely there eating. The young Kryptonian had searched the world for tempting, flavorful treats the youngest Lane would eat.
"Kara, this is fantastic. I understand why you wanted to come for breakfast here. How did you find out about this food truck?" Lucy asked as Kara bit into her own sandwich. Around them the farmers, bakers, beekeepers, and many others set up their canopies around them.
"Albert and his wife are from Albania. Their coffee shop was torched about two months ago by anti-immigrant group. They were not sure what they were going to do. Supergirl had helped the fire department put out the fire and talked with them after. I ran a news story about what happened after Supergirl told me all the particulars. The NCPD caught those responsible. Several people donated to get them back on their feet. The food truck was suggested so they could be at the various events in National City." Kara indicated pointing at the truck as they finished their food.
"Let me guess, Lena Luthor made the suggestion." Lucy quipped as she stared at Kara. The young reporter shook her head no. Of course Lucy would be jealous of Lena. Kara bet that Lucy thought Lena and herself were dating.
"I did." Kara said as they stood up and dumped their trash. Lucy looked surprised. "Come on. I want to start looking around." Kara grabbed Lucy's hand, pulling her up, and led the way to the first booths. Penny's Hand Dyed Yarns caused Lucy to purchase several skeins. She had taken up crocheting after having to stay in bed for several weeks. Not to mention crocheting helped with her fine motor skills. The colors were beautiful and organic in nature. They moved down the way to tables stacked with fresh radishes, beets, peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Pepperdine Hill farms had seven different types of potatoes, cabbages, bok choy, and green beans on their tables. Kara and Lucy debated about the flavors of purple potatoes versus red potatoes until Jacob Pepperdine offered them a sample of both potatoes cooked. Lucy loved the flavor of the reds purchasing a pound. Kara picked up a pound of the purple and the red potatoes. She handed over the cash and placed the potatoes in her bag. They moved on down the line of booths. Kara picked out a bouquet of large sunflowers paying for them.
"Thank you Kara. I'm sorry I dragged you away from Alex and your friends this morning. I've been consuming a great deal of your time." Lucy said as Kara stopped in front of a honey stand. They had a free standing transparent working honey bee hive on the table. Lucy and Kara watched as the bees worked within the colony. Kara wrapped her arms around Lucy hugging her close.
"You see these bees." Kara pointed to the hive contained behind the glass. Lucy nodded as she listened to Kara. "They work together caring for each other for the good of the colony. Just like we do in our family. Lena, Alex, Jonn, Maggie, Winn, James, and all the others in our circle including you. You need to be brave Lucy and let them in to help you." Lucy began to shake her head. "You think they will treat you different and judge you as weak, but they won't Lucy. They love you. We are your colony. Your village that will help you when you need it, argue with you when you won't listen, and console you when your sad." Kara kissed the top of Lucy's head. Lucy shook her head as Kara hugged her.
"I'll think about it Kara. Just give me some time." Lucy said looking up at the youngest Danvers. Kara leaned down and kissed her on the lips.
"Okay," she whispered against Lucy's lips. She released the youngest Lane as surprise blossomed across Lucy's features. Kara pointed at some clover honey and several pieces of honeycomb as Terrance Miles moved to fulfill her request. Miles Honey farm boasted nine different honeys. They supplied honeycomb and beeswax too. The young reporter made her purchase and began to move down the line toward the Rudolphs Bakery allowing Lucy to catch up.
"Wait, you can't just kiss me and walk away. Kara, listen to me." Lucy called out as Kara ignored her continuing on her way. The young Kryptonian chuckled softly knowing she had exasperated and confused the youngest Lane. Everyone believed she wanted Lena. While that may be true, Lena was with James. Kara would not interfere with the relationship. So Kara had let go of that dream. The months of tending and caring for Lucy had allowed something deep and true blossom inside Kara. It replaced the hurt of Lena and James relationship and filled her with a deep, abiding love for the youngest Lane. Over the months it had become too much with Kara determined to let Lucy know finally today.
"I'll take two of ciabatta, one of the rye, and one of the loaves of wheat." Kara glanced around locating what she was looking for next as Rudolph's attendant, Cheri, slipped each bread into a paper covering and handed them to Kara. Kara paid Cheri and slipped the bread into her shopping bag.
"You up for a few drinks tonight Kara?" Cheri asked as Lucy came abreast of the Kryptonian. Lucy growled low as Kara laughed.
"She's busy!" Lucy informed the attendant as she pulled the young reporter away. They moved to a table covered in mushrooms, olives of different sorts, and various sun dried tomatoes. Kara pointed at several sun dried tomatoes and olives. "Kara, please." Lucy plead pulling the Kryptonian away from the table as the attendant pulled together what she wanted.
"I would think the kiss was self explanatory. I've fallen in love with you Lucy. All this time watching you bravely struggle forward, persevere, and fight to move forward. You are awe inspiring." Kara whispered leaning down and resting her forehead against Lucy's. "You make me want to be a better person. You are so beautiful. So desirable Lucy." Kara confessed as she ran her hand along her jaw. "I wish you could see yourself through my eyes. This." Kara tapped Lucy's hip. "This is not a weakness. This is an amazing strength. This is clear and utter devotion. Duty and strength beyond anything I have ever seen. My Kryptonian powers pale in comparison to you." The tears that softly fell across Lucy's cheeks were gently wiped away by Kara. "I'm here. If you want me. Because I want you." Kara said softly as people moved around them. The youngest Danvers kissed Lucy's forehead and moved away to retrieve her purchases. When she turned around Lucy was wiping away her tears and looking skyward. Kara waited patiently until Lucy looked at her. The young reporter held out her hand waiting to see if Lucy would take it. Seconds later the warmth of the youngest Lanes fingers engulfed Kara's hand.
"God, you make me feel so...so loved. How do you do that Kara?" Lucy asked as they walked along the market picking various vegetables and items. Kara picked up some marinated beef and two free range chickens. Kara moved away toward their bikes with Lucy in tow. It was approaching ten o'clock.
"I just treat you how you should be on. Come home with me and we will cook lunch together." Kara entreated the young Lane. Lucy hesitated knowing that Lena, Maggie and Alex would be at Kara's. "You can't hide forever. Come home with me. Let us all help you. Let us all be there for you." Lucy looked at the ground. They would all know soon anyway. Lucy started work on Monday. Maybe it was time. She looked up at Kara. God, Kara. When she looked into those beautiful blue eyes she thought she could do anything.
"All right. I'll come home with you." Lucy said as she grabbed Kara's arm. "I can't do this without you. You can't abandon me Kara. I need you for this. I need your strength." Lucy declared as she held Kara to her tightly.
"Always Lucy… Always." Kara kissed her softly. "Come on." Both women mounted their bikes and pedaled back. Kara and Lucy were just getting off the elevator when the door to Kara's apartment opened. Alex looked into the hallway surprised to see Kara and Lucy. She did a second take though when she saw the titanium leg.
"Lucy! You're home." Alex exclaimed as she moved into the hall. Kara moved passed her sister into the apartment. Alex embraced Lucy tightly wrapping her arms around like her life depended on it. "Where have you been? We've been looking for you for months. I thought… when you didn't reply to our emails, texts, or phone calls we thought the worse." Lucy hugged her back while trying to hold the bike. Kara came back into the hall taking Lucy's bike and moving the two women into the apartment. Lena and Maggie were putting away the groceries that Kara brought home when Alex and Lucy entered the apartment.
"Lucy!" Maggie and Lena exclaimed proceeding to come around the counter in Kara's kitchen. "What happened? Where have you been? Why didn't you contact us?" The voices asked as they pulled her to them. Lucy's tears fell freely in relief at their concern.
"Slow down. Let her breath." Kara said as she came around the counter after having stored away Lucy's bike. She pulled Lucy to her running her hands over her arms. "You okay?" Kara asked as she stared into her eyes.
"I'm good." Lucy said as she took a deep breath. She looked at her friends understanding how deeply they were concerned now. "How about we move into the living room? I'll explain everything." Kara brought them all drinks as everyone grabbed a spot. Lucy began explaining what had happened while in Afghanistan. How she had Lois contact Kara. When Alex went to say something, Kara made a motion for her to hold her peace. Alex nodded though it was hard. Lucy continued to tell how Kara with the help of Lois helped her through her rehabilitation. Lena became quite disgruntled to hear that Lucy's father basically abandoned her after she was injured. Maggie shook her head in sympathy. When Lucy finished her explanation of the last eight months there was silence.
"You are back now. To stay, right?" Alex asked as she looked at her friend amazed at the uncompromising strength she projected. Lucy smiled as Kara rubbed her shoulders. Lena and Maggie looked at Kara and Lucy, then at each other with a smirk.
"Yes, I'm back. I have an apartment a few blocks from here. I start working with a law firm on Monday. But I'm back." Lucy said with a shaky voice. Everyone smiled and Alex looked especially relieved.
"Good!" Maggie exclaimed with a big smile. "I see you and Kara are together too." Lucy smiled broadly as she looked at Kara and Lucy.
"She's been my rock all these months. I couldn't have asked for a better partner through it all. She's been by my side during my worst moments." Lucy informed them all. Lena and Alex raised their eyebrows. "Physical therapy, psychologist appointments, surgeries, and so much more. I couldn't had asked for a more faithful friend." Kara blushed looking away for a moment.
"Okay, okay. Enough about me. Let's get lunch going. Alex can you call James, Winn, and Jonn. You might want to invite Vasquez." Alex got up and nodded while Maggie, Lena dragged Lucy into the kitchen. Maggie and Lena pulled Lucy into a hug gently scolding her about not letting them know. The sound of pots and pans being pulled out and gentle laughter soon resounded. Kara smiled, happy to see her family reacting like she thought they would. She moved over to the window looking out toward the harbor. This day had brought so much hope.
"So when were you going to tell me?" Alex whispered as she hugged her sister.
"It wasn't mine to tell. She had to come to the decision." Kara said softly leaning her head against Alex's shoulder as they watched the three women in the kitchen. "She was so wounded when I first saw her. I'm happy she's finally decided to reach out."
"I can't imagine how hard this must have been for her. How hard it must have been for you? All those times when you said you were busy you were with her?" Alex inquired looking at Kara. Kara nodded thinking back to the sleepless nights of being there for Lucy when she woke screaming, of arguing with her when she claimed she should have died, and the countless tears after surgeries or when she was in pain.
"I couldn't let her walk this path alone. I know how it feels to think you're useless. I couldn't let her think that. It took quite a bit to convince her how amazing she is. Lois and I took a lot of shit from her, but she is so worth it." Kara said as tears fell down her cheeks. The young Danvers quickly turned away to look outside least Lucy see her crying. Alex squeezed her hard.
"You are amazing Kara Zor-el." Kara snorted and shook her head no. Suddenly, Alex's arms were replaced by Lucy's.
"Alex is right. You are amazing." Kara turned to find deep mocha eyes drawing her in. "I love you Kara! I love you so deeply. Thank you, for rescuing me." Lucy whispered kissing her deeply. The youngest Danvers pulled her in tighter responding in kind. Neither of them realized how quiet it became as the women in the kitchen watched. Kara broke the kiss and ran her fingers along Lucy's face.
"You rescued yourself. I just showed up after to remind you how strong you are my love." Kara asserted to Lucy. There was a knock on the door that broke the two women from their moment. Alex answered the door allowing James and Winn inside. Just as she closed it another knock came with Jonn, Vasquez, and surprising Eliza. Alex looked at Jonn, but staved off her questions till later. Soon the apartment was overflowing with conversation, food, and love. Lucy took a moment to step back as everyone was distracted. Kara had been right. She needed them. She needed all of them. Most especially she needed Kara. She had her now. Maybe, just maybe Kara was right. There was hope every day anew. We all need our colonies or villages to support us. Lucy was pulled back into her village of people surrounded by love.