XO

by CallMeJoz

“What did I say about you shutting up and letting me waste my money on you. Besides I’ve gotta assert my dominance.” When it comes down to it you’ve gotta do whatever it takes to get what you want even if it means doing something you’re not used to doing. Sometimes you don’t know what you need untill someone forces it onto you, but it also might not be what you wanted.

11. Strelitzia Flowers

Hi, so let's chat for a minute. This chapter low key has been months in the making because I intended it to occur sooner in the story but the plot said otherwise. I am now going to insert my warnings about this chapter. 1) it is a wrench I am throwing into the mix to spice it up. 2) this is mostly Zara/Lena but take note of the sandwich I made of them for you. 3) I have to insert a trigger warning for rape/sexual abuse. It's fairly light and grazes the surface just enough so you can understand what happened. 4) I truly hope this chapter doesn't offend you because that's not my intent. I'm just here to tell you about this story playing on repeat in my head. 5) You most likely, to a degree, might be very conflicted by the end of this chapter once you realize the position I've placed our beloveds in but I promise you I'm not done yet. That concludes this chapters warnings. I like to imagine you probably figured out where this dinner is headed and yes it is an abrupt stop but it leads into the beautiful scene I've planned for down the road. Not anytime soon.. well I mean a beautiful scene is on the way in two chapters or so, but the one I'm hyping isn't for a ways away. Just know it was inspired by Adele. For now jump and I'll catch you at the bottom.

---

Saturday night Lena's POV

"Are you sure you have to go?"

"Yeah. I don't want to go either. I'm already going to be twenty minutes late because of you. But I have to go handle business." I am currently sitting at my vanity putting on my earrings. Then suddenly I'm being wrapped up in my blanket. She hasn't left my side since I started to get ready. Because I know this, I wasn't surprised to feel she's only wearing my blanket.

"You can't go. I need cuddles." This made me smile because we just spent the past two and a half hours in bed together. Kara's been clinging to me all day after she found out I was meeting Zara for dinner tonight. Honestly it's been nonstop sex all day. I'm not complaining because Kara is a fast learner and she's only getting better after every round. I'm surprised she even let me go long enough so we could come to my apartment. "And you look so sexy right now."

"Blue, don't you start." I whined looking at her reflection. Damn my girlfriend is smoking hot! "I'm already dressed and ready to go. Leeana has been waiting downstairs for the past twenty minutes. I have to go baby."

"You aren't even dressed completely. You still need to be zipped up. Now I'm a reasonable gal, and I'm willing to help with said problem.. only it'll come at a cost." I simply let out a small laugh.

"You do know I can zip this up myself right?" I know what she's doing and I'm really in no rush to leave so I'll entertain it a little. "I don't need to accept your deal."

"I figured you'd say that. Good luck finding your keys to get back in later."

"Oof that's a heavy one. Zara is going to be very reluctant to let me stay the night with her. I'd probably have to-"

"Finish that sentence and I'll burn a hole straight through your brain." I could only laugh at how protective she is of me. She's so cute when she is jealous. I then gave my makeup a final look before I began to stand up. I then turned to face her and she's all wrapped up in the blanket with those big blueberry eyes on full power mode.

"Come're." A simple instruction she didn't hesitate doing. She made it her point to wrap me up in the blanket with her.

"Stay. I'll make us dinner and we can do it again." She then pressed a kiss to my cheek. "And again, and again. Until you fall asleep. A far better plan if you ask me."

"That's a brilliant plan."

"Exactly so stay here instead. Call and tell her you can't come." I have every intention to stay and make my Kara cum over and over again. But at the same time I have to go because of her. I have to go secure my girlfriend's future and happiness. It's one dinner for like two hours and then I'll be back here with my Kara.

"I have no desire to give that loon my number. She's good with my office number and that's it."

"Do you feel like being kidnapped on your way over?" Resting my head on her shoulder I let out a sigh.

"No. I have to go Kar. I have to do this for us." After a moment of just taking in the smell of my girlfriend's hair I let her go. That quickly proved a bad idea because I forgot she is naked. "Zip me up?" I asked turning my back to her. Any longer looking at her and I would fall right into her trap.

"Fine but not because you said so. I'm only zipping you up because I wanna unzip you later."

"I reckon that can definitely be arranged." Kara then zipped up my dress. When she did that I turned back to face her. "I promise I'll text you when I get there and when I'm leaving."

"Okay." She spoke softly with puppy eyes. I couldn't stop my eye roll at her. So my next move was into my bedroom so I can gather my purse.

"Blue stop it. You're making this hard for me."

"I'm sorry Mistress. I just wanna spend time with you is all." She murmured following behind me as I gathered everything I needed for the night.

"I'll only be gone for two hours. It's seven forty now so Mistress will be home by ten-thirtyish no later than eleven." It was here I picked up my phone. Looking at it my calendar reminder is letting me know I am going to be late to this dinner. I'm supposed to be there by eight but that is very unlikely to happen. "Alright I'm ready to go. See me off?"

"You look really hot."

"Thank you. I dress to impress." I smiled turning and walking to the main door so I can go.

"What am I supposed to do while you're gone?"

"Anything you like except leave my apartment or have any company over."

"What if there is an emergency and they need Supergirl?"

"I suggest you make sure no emergencies happen while I'm gone then." I shrugged holding out my hand for hers.

"How am I supposed to do that? I can't control when emergencies happen." As she said that she held out her right wrist that has the bracelet on it.

"You're Supergirl, you'll figure it out." I shrugged turning off the bracelet. When I last modified the bracelet I made it so I can turn it on and off without having to take it off her completely. All I have to do is touch it and it recognizes my fingerprint allowing only me to use it.

"I'll never eat another potsticker if you walk out that door." She's so dramatic. I love it.

"You love potstickers."

"And I'm willing to give it up for you." It's responses like that, that make me wanna dig her guts out.

"Okay." I then grabbed down my jacket. "Our leftovers from lunch are in the fridge so eat those if you get hungry. You can have the rest of my sandwich if you like as well."

"But you said you liked it."

"Yeah but it could've been better." I spoke pulling on my jacket. "Anyway I have to go. Give me a kiss before I go."

"If I give you a kiss will it make you stay?"

"Maybe. You can give it a shot and we can find out together." She accepted that idea and pulled me in for a kiss. I had absolutely no control over this kiss. She took complete control with a very clear objective to try to get me out my clothes. It was working until my phone started to ring. "Baby I-"

"Stay home!" And then her lips are back on mine. Ehh I'm not gonna not make out with my girlfriend. So somehow during our kiss I managed my phone out of my purse and answered it.

"Hi." Was all I could get out before Kara forced her tongue back into my mouth.

"Lena it's Zara! I got to the restaurant a little early and I wanted to know if you-" Anything she said after that I didn't hear because I pulled it from my ear to see the caller ID. It's just a random unsaved number. How the fuck did she get my personal number? Kara must've heard it too and she's looking at me in confusion. I simply muted my end of the call.

"How did she-"

"I don't know but just goes to show she's not what she seems."

"You gotta change your number now."

"Agreed."

"Lena?! Hello?!! Lena?"

"I really don't want you going now."

"Baby!" I warned before unmuting my phone. "Sorry can you repeat that I just went through a tunnel."

"Ahh okay. Well I was wondering what kind of wine you'd like? They have-" I then muted my phone again.

"I am prepared to use force if I have to." Kara then flashed away and came back in her supersuit. "Ms. Luthor I do believe your life will be I'm danger if you leave for this dinner."

"Or should we just start with a reisling and go from there?" I then unmuted my phone again before speaking.

"Anything that'll turn my blood into alcohol will work. But I must go so I can get there in one piece."

"Okay. Just tell them you're with Zara when you get here and they'll take you back."

"Yup. See ya soon." And then I hung up. "Knees now!" I instructed before she could even start.

"Lena I will-"

"I said I want knees. If you don't you'll regret it." She let me know she's not at all happy with me by not listening but instead putting her hands on her hips. See that supersuit gives her too much confidence and she needs a reminder.

"I think-" I didn't give her a chance to finish before I grabbed her cheeks and squeezed them as tight as I could forcing her to shut up.

"I already have an attitude about having to go to this stupid dinner. You know I hate it when you don't listen to me so now I really officially have an attitude." I then used my free hand to grab her arm that has the bracelet on it. She must've figured what my plan is and snatched her arm from me moving out my grasp. "Kara."

"I have an attitude too. I don't want you going out with your ex. I don't care if it's strictly business. You don't need to go sit and have dinner with her. I can't and I won't allow it Ms. Luthor." If she is trying to piss me off it's fucking working.

"Blue. I said I want knees. Right here." I spoke slowly so she heard every syllable. She shrugged her shoulders and folded her arms. "Alright fine." I then put my jacket back on the hook and turned back to her.

"Good. Now take off your heels and let's go cuddle." Kara then began to approach me. Her mistake.

"Strip her powers!" I yelled out activating her bracelet. I might have modified a manual on and off switch into it, but I didn't get rid of the voice control switch either. I simply changed the password. Then without a word I lunged for her. I guess she realized she fucked up and tried to run from me but I caught her by the hair and wound it around my hand pulling her back into my grasp rendering her virtually helpless.

"Mi-"

"When are you going to learn not to defy me when I tell you to do something?" I growled in her ear. "Cute that you forgot I don't want to go to this dinner either and thought I wouldn't stay later to put you back in line."

"M'sorry M-mistress."

"Yeah you're gonna be." I then used my foot to push at the back of her knees forcing her to her knees. "Let's go." Not losing my grip I began to basically drag her into my bedroom and threw her to the ground. "You're gonna learn not to piss me off Blue. I want knees right now!" A firm instruction she's got no choice but to follow. She knows she's in trouble and so I imagine that's why she got up to her knees and is giving me her pouty eyes. Normally they'd work but I'm going to be very late to my business meeting because of her. "One thing I hate the most is being late. Now thanks to you I'm going to be late." As I said that I turned to my bedside table and took my collar out the drawer. Turning back to Kara I began putting it on her. "I desperately want to beat you right now for being disobedient. However I think I'll hold off until I get home. I wanna sit and watch you cry whilst I deal it out and I don't have that kind of time right now." I felt her shiver when I said that. I don't know if it's excitement or if it's fear but at least she knows it's coming. It was also here I decided to fasten the collar a notch tighter than I normally do. "Can you breathe okay?" She nodded in response which earned her a slap. "Speak when I ask you a question Damnit!"

"Y-yes Mistress. Sorry Mistress."

"You've so much to learn BB." I spoke putting my finger in the O ring of the collar, tugging it. "It's bittersweet for me. Annoying because you don't know how to act, but nice because I get to teach you how to act." Leaning in towards her I gave her a small kiss. "On your feet." I spoke firmly pulling away and tugging up on the collar. She got to her feet and I couldn't help but smile. She's still in her supersuit and I find it so attractive. Here I am casually dominating Supergirl because she doesn't want me to go handle some business. "Take off the boots and get on the bed." A simple instruction she shouldn't have trouble doing. Letting go of the collar I

Backed away and watched as she did what she was told.

"Mistress?"

"Yes?"

"D-do you want me to take off my suit?"

"Did I say to?"

"No.

"There's your answer. Hurry up I don't have all day." I stood and watched as she took off the boots and got into my bed. Once she was laying I followed and settled my body between her legs. "Hi baby." I grinned before laying on her to press a kiss to her lips. I just need to get her all worked up so that I can go. With that being said I moved to her neck "why are you being a brat?"

"You're m-mine not hers."

"Mhmm. Where's the problem there?" I cooed still placing kisses all over her neck.

"I d-don't want you going anywhere without me. I'm jealous." That made me giggle as I moved to press my lips to hers.

"Jealous of what?" It was here Kara pushed me off her just far enough so we made eye contact.

"Her! I don't want you going to dinner with her! You look so beautiful and sexy right now. And the idea that you got all dolled up to go-" I didn't let her finish. I don't want her getting herself all worked up over nothing.

"Kara I got all dolled up like this for You not her. You were there when I picked out this dress. I'm wearing what You thought looked good on me. You are the one wearing my collar. It's You that I want Kara it always has been. She's an ex for a reason and she'll stay an ex because I have me an adorable Kryptonian that I adore tremendously." She's just staring up at me with those adorable soft blue eyes. "You're my girlfriend and I promise you will be during, after this dinner, and for however long after." I then used my hand to cup her cheek. "I've given you no reason to doubt me, so why would you start now?"

"I don't doubt you Lena, I just don't trust Zara."

"Good. You've my loyalty and you should believe me when I say I'm yours Kara. You and all your stupid little jokes and stupid cute little face is mine. Understood?"

"I understand Mistress." Good. To solidify that I kissed her with as much lust as I could put in it. This worked because it wasn't long before she started to move down this way she's completely underneath me. "M-mistress?"

"Yes princess?"

"Can we be intimate one last time before you go? I need the reassurance and to apologize for being a brat." She cooed bating those stupid blueberries at me.

"I have to go baby, I'm late."

"Exactly so just stay a minute longer. I swear I'll make it worth it." As she said that her leg managed it's way between my thighs. For fucks sake! She knows I love how muscular her thighs are and feeling them between mine sparks something in me. "Let me make this right." Before I could even say no she flipped our position and quickly pinned my arms above my head.

"Kara!"

"I just think sending you off to Zara with my teeth marks on your neck and thighs will ease my pain." She then began kissing my neck. I don't want this but I want it. And being late to dinner with my ex because my girlfriend was giving me head is exactly the excuse I want to have. "You know because you're about to cheat on me by having dinner with another woman." To that I giggled.

"I don't think you understand what cheating is." That got her to pull away and look at me.

"You promised to feed me and you're about to head off to feed someone who isn't me. Therefore it's cheating."

"I'm not gonna feed her, I only intend to feed myself, babe."

"What about me?"

"What about you?"

"I'm hungry."

"Then go get something to eat." I sassed moving my hips in an attempt to throw her off me. It obviously didn't work, yet I did only try half heartedly to do so. I can't help myself when she's in her super suit.

"Yes ma'am." And then she began attacking my neck. Taking bites wherever she could.

"K-Kara. St-stop." I purred out trying my hardest Not to grind against her leg. "I have.. mmm have go.."

"In a minute baby. Here." She then let go of my hands allowing me to tangle my fingers in her beautiful blonde hair. Which smells exactly like my shampoo and I'm not sure how I feel about it. Then again we've been sleeping here at my place a lot this week. "You're just so beautiful I can't help myself when it comes to you."

"K-Kara."

"Shh you're okay I'm just trying to put my claim on you then I'll let you go." As she said that I felt one of her hands creeping up my thigh taking the bottom of my dress with it. Good thing we decided on a loose fitting dress because it was moments later that her hand was moving my panties to the side.

"Babe." I breathed out feeling her finger tip against my wet flesh.

"For someone who didn't want to stay you sure are really turned on." She grinned pulling away from my neck flashing me that million dollar smile she has.

"I don't w-wanna go." I spoke putting my hands on her chest feeling the fabric of her supersuit. No matter how many times I see her in it I can't help but to fangirl over her. I've always had a thing for Supergirl before I knew she actually is my best friend. So now that I have my super hero who turns out to be my best friend who also happens to be my girlfriend, I'm in awe. I'm extremly extremely attracted to her right now and I absolutely want to stay here with her.

"Then don't go. If you stay I'll go put on my old suit with the skirt and I'll let you tie me up." I couldn't stop the inevitable shiver and purr that came out my mouth. I've had dreams about her in that skirt. She picked up on that and pushed a finger inside me.

"Fuck baby!"

"Is that a yes?" Fuck I can't say no to her. Not whilst she's on me in her supersuit. And she's making sure to use her thumb to rub my clit ultimately giving me pleasure double vision. "You don't need to go. Let's get this dress off you." She then, sadly, removed her fingers from my panties and sat back on her knees. "Sit up for me Stink."

"Nooo!" I whined because as bad as I want to stay and let Supergirl have her way with me I have to go protect my Kara. Kara's happiness is my main priority. And to maintain that I have to attend this dinner to make sure she has her job for as long as she wants. "Blue stop it. I gotta-" Not another word escaped before she was kissing me.

"Stay!"

"I have to go for us. Now let me go so I can convince your boss to give you extra special treatment." If I don't escape now I'll never be able to. That being said I pushed her off me and quickly got out of bed.

"Lena?!" I let out a sigh before fixing my panties and dress.

"I have to go protect our future together. Then I'll be back and we can pick this up where we left off." I explained opening my nightstand to find my handcuffs. It was also here I forgot that Kara broke them so I have to settle on using this old charger cable.

"But you promised to always feed me. It's dinner time and who is supposed to feed me if you're not here?"

"Wrist." I replied holding out my hand.

"Stay."

"Kara if you don't give me your hand right now I'm telling the world your secret identity ."

"Okay tell them. Mistress I only-"

"It's either you give it here or you'll be punished more than you are already going to be."

"But I don't want to spend my night alone." She pouted looking at me with dough eyes. I can't resist those blueberry eyes.

"Come're." She didn't hesitate coming to the edge of the bed. "I'm only going to be gone for two hours, hopefully less than that. Then I'll be right back here with you." I then gave her a kiss. "I don't want to go either but it's a one time thing and we'll never have to be separated for dinner again. But for now I need to make sure you don't try to interrupt this meeting. Now give me your wrist or you'll lose your collar privileges." She gave me another sad stare before giving me her wrist. I then moved it to the frame of my bed and began wrapping the wire around them both in a secure knot. "I also wanna remind you I'm still mad you broke my handcuffs."

"I didn't mean to. You just made me feel so good I couldn't control myself. D-do you think you can make me feel that good again before you go? I'm already tied up."

"Don't you start."

"Well I had to try."

"You know if there wasn't so much riding on this I'd blow it off. But she forced me into a corner and I can't allow that to be any longer. I'm sorry Blue, but I have to go."

"Promise you'll come back?"

"I've National City's protector tied to my bed. I'll have to if something bad happens that requires super strength and speed. I'll definitely come back. Mostly because I can't wait to hear you beg for me later when you get your punishment. You better pray to Rao that this dinner goes well because you are already in line for punishment, and if this night doesn't go well… Haha you'll wish it did." I then leaned in and gave her a kiss. "I am leaving now and when I get back you better have a good apology for making me late." I then let her face go and backed away. "I'll text you when I get there. See you later gorgeous." Taking my purse I opened the door. I then made sure to jump through the frame this way her threat goes invalid. "I'll buy you some potstickers tomorrow for lunch." With that I closed the door and headed down to meet with my driver. From there it took us about twenty-five maybe thirty minutes to get to the restaurant. There was no traffic or anything. I just told my driver to take the longest route to get there.

Zara ended up choosing this cute family owned Italian restaurant. Really I only agreed to it because I know their happy hour is from nine to ten on weekdays. Going inside I immediately noticed that half the restaurant is empty. There are people here but they're all grouped to one side of the restaurant. Please let them lead me to a table on the busy side.

"Good evening! Welcome to Antonella's Italian restaurant, how many?" Asked the hostess as I walked up to the podium.

"How come only half the restaurant is full?"

"Oh the other side is reserved for like this couples date night or something. I'm not sure I just know it's only for two people."

"Oh." Fuck! I'm gonna need that glass of wine already.

"Yeah. Anyway how many guest are in your party?"

"Uh I'm here for Zara. It's just a business dinner." I spoke slowly.

"I see. Right this way." She then started to walk over to the reserved side of the restaurant.

"Hey! There you are I was starting to think you stood me up." Smiled Zara standing up as we came up to the table where she was sitting.

"Well I didn't want to come so." I don't owe her an explanation yet I've no need to lie.

"That's okay I figured. But I reckon it's only temporary. You'll have a different mindset by the time you leave. Anyway sit I ordered calamari as an appetizer. I hope that'll agree with your pallet?"

"I'd like something to wet my pallet first. You promised me wine."

"Of course." Somehow right as she finished a waiter appeared holding a bottle of wine. "Top us both off please."

"And leave the bottle." I added as he finished pouring my glass.

"You never answered my question." Spoke Zara looking at me. I sipped my wine first before answering.

"What question?"

"Calamari? Is that acceptable or did you want something else?" Yeah to go home and be with my girlfriend.

"No that's fine." This actually prompted me to look at the menu. See what kind of drinks they have so I can pair it with my entreè. Oh and I should probably get something for my baby. Knowing her she'll probably eat it tomorrow for breakfast.

"I hope you find something you like. They've chicken parm so I know you at least have that." She spoke with a snicker at the end making me suck my teeth and lower my menu to glare at her. She's referencing back to a date we had one night in school. We went to a random restaurant off campus that honestly looked suspicious when we first pulled up to the parking lot, and that should've been a dead giveaway. Moral of the story the only thing that seemed good to me there was chicken parmigiana so I got it. I wished quickly after that I didn't because it was still half frozen when they brought it out to me. And when they reheated it enough so it was semi edible it was like chewing a tire. And then it gave me food poisoning so I vowed never to eat chicken parmigiana ever again. "And it's semi decent this time around. They're housemade to order so no throwing up this time."

"That traumatized me! I still haven't ate another chicken parm since." She only laughed at me.

"Well I told you to get the risotto but what did you say?"

"Okay I get it! I learned my lesson."

"Quiet Bean! I order what I want. I said what I said and I want what I want." She mimicked me anyway making me smile a bit while I rolled my eyes at her.

"Well the joke was on both of us because you had to sit up all night with me as I threw up my insides."

"I didn't have to stay, I wanted to stay. Couldn't let you die without me rubbing it in your face that you should've listened to me." When she said that she had this adorable look on her face and it reminded me of why I liked her so much. But then I remember why I can't go back. Plus I have Kara and she's everything I could ever want.

"Yeah you sure made sure of that."

"That's why I was surprised you agreed to eat at this restaurant tonight." I took another sip of wine before going back to looking at the menu.

"Well you gave me no option. Plus Kara insisted I come after she saw Italy and cannoli and I'm not allowed home without one. Yet she refused to let me go. Knucklehead only wants cannolis and that is the only reason she allowed me out the house." It's true.

"Hmm well then let's be sure to not leave without one." I didn't respond so I nodded and had another sip. "Is the wine okay? I wasn't sure what your go to is. I don't really drink anymore like I used to so I blindly chose one."

"Eh wine is wine. Especially in uncomfortable situations." I chuckled as I lifted up the menu not really bothering to look at her.

"You know, you should be a lot nicer to me granted you never heard my side of the story."

"We shall see." I think I'm gonna get a linguini. I'm in the mood for shrimp and garlic. I probably shouldn't because I know Kara will probably taste it on my tongue and want to have some, and I've no desire to share with her. But then again at the rate this dinner is going I'll probably go home to her tasting of wine. Speaking of which I think I should check in on her. That being said I took out my phone and sent a message to my Blue;

"Made it to the restaurant. Cringing because she rented out half the restaurant for just us. Reminds me of our first date and how skittish you were. How nervous you were that you knew I was the sexy Dominant you didn't know you needed." I got an almost immediate reply.

"Mistress come home i'm aching for you. You're technically on a date with another woman and therefore you're cheating on me and if you want any chance at forgiveness you'd better get home an hour ago." That response got me to smile. I'm going to fuck the hell out of her when I get back. She won't stand a chance.

"Not cheating I don't want to be here. I'm here because I care about you and want nothing but the best for you at CatCo." After I sent that I heard Zara reminding me she's sitting across from me.

"I'm thinking on getting the bolognese. I can never say no to meat, noodles, and red sauce."

"A timeless classic." I chuckled a little bit. I remember how much she loves pasta.

"Most definitely. It's a pasta night reunion. It's only right I eat bolognese."

"I'm surprised you haven't eaten yourself sick of it." I picked up the menu again pretending to look just to not have to make eye contact.

"Huh! No! Never! I love love pasta. It's the key to my heart." She did love when I fed her pasta. I remember every time after we got done eating pasta she'd always get so giggly and cuddly.

"Good to know you're still addicted to carb sticks."

"Not too much of me has changed as far as my likes go."

"Ah, good to know." I then finished looking at the menu and sat it down to find shes staring at me. "Did you take a picture?" I asked being a smart ass.

"Plenty." She smiled batting her eyes at me. "I'm just in awe thinking about how far we both have come since we last spoke. I know for me it was a rough road. After I dropped out I didn't have the slightest clue of what I wanted to do. But one night it all just clicked and I decided I wanted to be my own person. Free from all the bullshit and my past. Next thing I know I'm getting my degree in business and then I met Norah and suddenly we've a thriving blog post that turned into an actual foundation and it's grown into an empire. I never thought my lowest moment would turn into me helping my community. But if you ask me it's probably the best thing I could've done."

"What exactly is the kind of foundation you run?" I don't really care I just need to know what's going on with her in hopes to find something to use against her.

"It's called A Second Chance. And basically it helps mainly women, teens, and sometimes men, of all ages who've been the victim of a sexual assault or domestic violence find comfort, counciling, medical care, help in building a case against their abusers, and housing sometimes if necessary. Really just to help them realize that they're survivors and they deserve to live on. No person should have to suffer through all those emotions and thoughts by themselves."

"Oh I see. Where'd that idea grow from?"

"Uh well-"

"Here is the calamari you ordered. The plate is very hot so be careful." Spoke a waiter as he placed a plate down in front of us.

"Thank you." I smiled at the guy.

"You know I just saw you guys have fried raviolis. Could I get an order of those as well?" Asked Zara looking at him.

"Of course. Is there anything else I could get you?"

"I dunno. Lena are you ready to order? I know what I want."

"Yeah I'm ready."

"Okay great! What can I get for you?" He asked pulling out a pen and notepad. I looked at Zara but she motioned to me letting me know to go first.

"Okay well I have a bit of a complicated order but it is mostly time sensitive if anything." I figure if I just order everything I want now while I'm thinking about it I won't forget. He nodded and so I continued. "For me I'll have the shrimp linguini and tell them to go heavy with the garlic."

"Okay shrimp linguini with extra garlic. Now all of our pastas come with a choice of either Cesar salad or our house garden salad."

"Ummm I guess Cesar is fine. Could I get the dressing on the side with it?"

"Of course."

"And then I want the Cajun chicken Alfredo. Can you add shrimp to that?"

"It shouldn't be a problem."

"Okay great. And then how's the lasagna? Is it any good?"

"Oh it's my mother's favorite item on the menu. Chef adds cream cheese to it and it just takes it over the top. I get yelled at everytime I come home without a piece for her."

"Okay well you had me at mom's favorite. I'll have that as well. Now that and the Alfredo I'm ordering ahead of time to take home to my girlfriend. She made it very clear I'm not to return home without something for her to eat and I don't want to share my linguini."

"Okay that's fine I'll put it in the system and let them know not to fire it until later." He nodded writing on the notepad. "And both of those come with a salad."

"Just make them both Cesar. Easier for them in the back. Sorry it's so complicated but my goddess has to eat or she'll give me hell."

"It's no problem at all. I completely understand that and I respect it." He nodded before turning to Zara. "And for you?"

"I'll just have the bolognese with the garden salad. And what kind of dressings do you have?"

"Cesar, balsamic, thousand island, and Italian."

"I'll take the balsamic please."

"Okay sounds good. Was there anything else?" Zara hesitated and looked at me but I shook my head no because I'm done ordering.

"I think we're good for now." She replied.

"Okay. So we have a shrimp linguini with extra garlic, the Cajun chicken Alfredo with added shrimp, and a slice of lasagna for you?" He spoke looking at me.

"Correct."

"The Alfredo and lasagna are to-go. Then all three with Caesar salad."

"Nailed it."

"Awesome." He then turned to Zara. "And then for you the classic bolognese with the garden salad, balsamic dressing. Plus an order of fried ravioli."

"Today must not be your first day here huh?" She smiled up at him making the poor guy blush a little.

"No ma'am. It's my second day."

"Well you could've fooled me." That got him to laugh a bit before taking our menus.

"Can I offer you ladies any drinks? We have really delicious cocktails and lemonades. I recommend the Bandini martini. It's most refreshing and often times gets you out of trouble if you're in it. It even comes in a beautiful glass with lots of Strelitzia flowers on it. If you don't know what a Strelitzia flower is, it's the beautiful bird looking plant you saw lining the pathway leading inside. And they are also our beautiful restaurant logo. It represents freedom and immortality for those who desire it most." Bandini martini? What? That doesn't make sense. Eh whatever I'm not gonna think too far into it.

"Uh you know what, I'll take one." Responded Zara with a giant smile. Well I'm not surprised that is her last name so I guess it's only right. However now I'm starting to suspect something weird is at play here.

"Can I also tell you that the Strelitzia flower was named after Charlotte Mecklenberg-Strelitz who was the queen of King George the third of England. She loved gardening and the Strelitzia flower was her favorite. She also was a big supporter for the protection of women and children alike. Truly a beautiful being hence why they nicknamed the flower Bird of paradise. A beautiful escape from any dreary situation."

"That's fascinating I never knew that. Lena did you know that?"

"I did not." They must be really big plant people here or something. I'm willing to bet Ms. Isly would approve granted she ever gets released from Arkham. Then again she's probably better off behind bars.

"The more you know. The owners just want to spread the word to all who enter these doors that freedom isn't just a dream. It's real and lives right here out front."

"You know what, make that two Bandini martinis. Lena you have to try it. It's so good."

"Sure why not." I shrugged. All this talk about the Strelitzia flower has me very curious about why he's telling us so much about it.

"Alright I'm gonna go put these in and I'll be back shortly with your drinks of freedom."

"Okay. Thank you."

"Not a problem." And then he walked away.

"I must say I absolutely adore this place. Believe it or not I've known about this place for quite some time now, but I've never been in the city to be able to come. Now that I live here I'm super excited to finally try the food here." Zara explained as she was messing with the appetizer plates.

"How'd you first hear about it?"

"Well three or four years back this woman and her son wandered into the doors of Second Chance and they were in rough shape, the both of them. Freshly escaped out of an abusive relationship and so we took them in. Did our jobs, got them the help they needed and eventually back on their feet. The following months later, and still to this day, she or her son would come by and drop off platters of different foods they made at home together for the clients we housed at the moment. We have a on-site kitchen but the government only really grants us enough money to make basic meals. It's never anything crazy fancy but it's something and something is always better than nothing." As she was talking she was splitting the calamari between two plates. "And one day I asked her why she keeps dropping off so much food. She looked me in the eyes and told me exactly this. I'll never forget it because that was when I realized I'm doing the right thing. We helped her in her lowest moment of her life. She grew up cooking with her grandmother and mother for their family. It was all she ever knew and her ex-husband damn near beat it out of her. Said she thought she'd never be able to find that passion for cooking again until she had her son. Then that was when she knew she had to do something. That she had to do better because She didn't want her son growing up seeing his father abuse his mother and catching black eyes any time he tried to intervene. Then one day he let her go out to the store for food and that's when she saw a flyer for Second Chance. And the next night she bravely packed her stuff and the heavens brought her to our doorstep. She was granted a new lease on life. And now she promised herself that she'd give back in any way she could to help others who are in the same situation she was." It was here she finished plating, and placed one in front of me. "This is enough for you right? More? Less?"

"No this is fine." I'm not really all that into calamari but I'll have some since it's here.

"Okay. Anyway since that day she's been busting her ass trying to make a better life for herself and her son. So now this beautiful establishment was opened about a year ago with help from her wonderful new husband." Zara then lifted up the drink menu and flipped through it to a certain page. "Have a look." She then handed me the menu, so I looked at it. Observing the list the Bandini Martini stood out the most because it was printed next to a picture of a Strelitzia flower. Reading the description it described what is in the drink which I found normal. But at the end it mentioned that it's served on a one hundred percent recycled paper coaster and to check both sides of it for a free coupon. It didn't specify the kind of coupon and that caught my attention. What kind of cupon did I win?

"I must say I'm very impressed with the fact that you have a martini named after you." I spoke closing the menu and setting it down.

"I wouldn't necessarily claim it's named after me but more so after what I helped inspire. Before you ask, you'll see when you get your drink. It's honestly really clever I think. I'm hoping you picked up on the hints because they were specifically written."

"Is this some crazy ponzi scheme to get people to join?" Zara laughed then ate a piece of calamari.

"No. It's something more exciting than that. It's a set up to get people to invest in CatCo actually."

"Wow. That's pretty genius."

"Alcohol is the way into anybody's pockets."

"I'm confused on the Strelitzia flower though. Why so much emphasis on-"

"Ugh! Lee can you stop being a super sluth for five minutes and wait for your martini. You're ruining the fun asking too many questions."

"Well I'm a scientist, it's my job to question things that don't make sense. Then make sense of it."

"That's true but you're off the clock. Just sit tight, you'll get answers. How do you like the calamari?" I've yet to try a piece because I'm stuck on this damn martini. But I've no choice but to wait for answers so for now I'll eat. Trying a piece it's actually not bad at all.

"It's definitely better than most places I've tried it at."

"I agree. I'm really excited about my pasta. If it's anything like how I remember I might just cry." Before I could think of a reply to that my phone buzzed signaling a text. Taking it out my pocket it's from Kara. Opening it the first thing I noticed is the adorable selfie of her cuddled up in my pillows and blankets. Then she followed it up with ;

"It's kinda mean of you to leave me in your bed without you in your bed." "Thinking about the first time I made you cum right here. You should come home right now and let me relieve it." "Pretend to go to the bathroom and just come home."

Yeah she has tried almost every trick in the book to keep me from coming here or to get me to come home early.. and honestly they're working. Or.. at least they were until this whole martini thing came up. Now I'm actually interested in what Zara's saying to me.

"That Kara?"

"Hmm?" Looking up at her she motioned to my phone.

"Tell Kara I said hi. You've heart eyes staring at your phone. So I'm guessing Kara texted." I typed back a simple reply telling her I'll be home in no time and to be good.

"Haha yeah. She's still very upset I'm eating dinner without her. I fed her before I left and gave her plenty of snacks but now she's threatening to call CPS because I've left her unattended for over an hour now." I chuckled looking at the new texts she just sent me.

"She's a character I'm sure of it now." Typing another reply to Kara I put my phone back into my pocket and turned my attention to Zara. Yes I don't want to be here but I've manners. And that includes not being on my phone the entire time I'm out to dinner with someone.

"Yes she certainly is and I am obsessed with her. So obsessed I pre-ordered her a pizza that should arrive there any minute now."

"How much food does she consume in a day?" I chuckled.

"Close to fifty pounds a day. And that's if the sun is out. Rainy days like today she's a blackhole. My personal little hungry hungry hippo." I smiled thinking about finally getting to go home and snuggle with my girlfriend.

"So I'm guessing the Alfredo and lasagna are gonna be her bedtime snack?" She giggled making me laugh a bit too.

"Honestly yes. Probably not both but one won't live to see sunlight."

"Well my money is on the Alfredo. Nobody can resist-"

"Here we go. A coaster for you and a coaster for you." Smiled our waiter coming up with our drinks, first placing down the coasters. "Now I hope you ladies enjoy this drink because a lot of care was put into them."

"Well this certainly is a pretty color." I responded because the drink itself is a transparent pastel green almost seafoam green color.

"The green comes from the mint muddled into it, thus giving you what most call a breath of fresh air after the first sip." Hearing that, naturally I took a sip. And it is very minty yet sour to the taste. Effectively giving off a breath of fresh air feeling.

"Ooh that's so good!" Smiled Zara taking my thoughts exactly.

"Good I'm glad you both are enjoying your drink. I hope by the bottom you realize paradise. Let me know if you ladies need anything else. I'll be back in a bit with those raviolis."

"Now will you tell me the big reveal?" I gotta know.

"You read the description for the martini right?" The coaster. I want to see what my coupon is for. The side facing up is just the restaurant logo and name. Flipping it to the other side, everything mentioned before made sense. It's short and simple that reads;

Freedom

257-583-HELP

1029 Ashbrook avenue,

Gotham city.

"Get it?"

"I take back my statement from earlier. I admire the Bandini martini for being on the menu here. Most men would zone out listening about the history and meaning of a flower."

"And that's why they tell you about the history of a flower. It's gets you wondering. And any female who is in distress naturally would pick up on these signs. There's even a flyer up in the bathroom that clarifies it if they aren't sure." This is where the pieces started to fit together in my head. At the same time it revealed more missing pieces to this puzzle.

"So are you telling me the owner of this restaurant-"

"Yes."

"And this is her.. well I suppose your way of-"

"Yes. I've managed to get it on the menu in almost all the restaurants back in Gotham. And I've been steadily working my way around National City. The day we saw each other at that skyline view restaurant I was headed up there to talk to the owner about getting the martini put on the menu."

"Ooh wow." Zara nodded and sipped her drink.

"Yeah. Any chance I can I'm spreading awareness of domestic abuse and things of that nature that people don't want to talk about. One in four women and one in nine men in the states alone experience a severe abusive relationship that often times end in murder suicide cases. To further that one in every fifteen children are exposed to seeing their parents or guardian being abused. Then later in life a good percentage of said kids grow up to repeat such violence on their partners or strangers. It gets worse, one in five women are raped at least once in their lifetime. And almost half of the time their attackers are someone they know. And that's just in America." Oi! I've no real reply. "I can tell by the way you're looking at me that it makes you uncomfortable to hear but that's real life. That's why I find it so important to spread awareness for this kind of abuse so that people know what signs to look for in others and be the voice for the voiceless. I'm determined to help lower those statistics. To help anyone in need of saving."

"I absolutely admire that. I can see you're very passionate about this."

"Well I hate to admit it but I'm part of those statistics. I know what it's like to feel like you are completely alone. I've seen the dark side of humanity enough times to know how hard it is to restore your faith. To be able to trust someone again without fear they'll hurt you. So now that I've found my paradise and I've made my peace, I find it my job to help others find theirs too." I could feel the passion emanating from her as she spoke this. It gave me flashbacks to when we'd sit in the labs during our free time and just talk about everything we learned that day or do random experiments. Then we'd do research like we were on the verge of discovering the key to all of life's problems. It never lead anywhere but it was something we both were passionate about and it's what made me fall for her to begin with.

"I've always loved how passionate you get about things you believe in." I didn't mean to say that out loud but it's too late. Plus it got her to flash me that adorable smile making my heart flutter a little.

"I just can't sit by and let others suffer when I know I can help."

"I respect that. It's always the right thing to do when you know you can do something about it."

"Yeah. I told you Lee I'm not the same girl you once knew anymore. I've been trying for years now to piece myself back together again. It was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. But by the grace of god and all that's right in the world I did it. Even as I say that I'm sure I still have some missing pieces. But I'm trying."

"Are you finally going to tell me the billion dollar reason why we're both here? It can't be just about a martini. I mean it's beautiful what you're doing but there's no way that's the only reason." When I said that her expression changed and she looked away from me down to her plate.

"Well the martini is part of it. But umm to put it-"

"Zara! Gorgeous baby! How nice of you to finally come visit my restaurant!" And then appeared this brown haired woman with bright blue eyes.

"Nella how are you my love?" Smiled Zara standing to hug the woman.

"How dare you think you could rent out half my restaurant and not tell me."

"How dare you get married and not take any pictures with me!"

"Well you're the bitch who was too busy to come."

"Hey! I was out saving lives you know that."

"I know and I keep you in my prayers every night before I go to bed."

"Thank you. Anyway Antonella I want you to meet Lena." Zara then motioned to me so naturally I smiled and stuck my hand out for a shake.

"Is this-" She asked looking at Zara who nodded. "Oh I see why now." She spoke looking at me then back to Zara. "Lena, that's a beautiful name." She then took my hand but instead of shaking she kissed the back of my hand then put her other hand on top of mine. "I know exactly who you are. I just never thought I'd ever get up close and personal with you. I've seen you on my tv and I must admit you're definitely my favorite Luthor compared to he-who-shall-not-be-named. But in all you're beautiful. Zara would tell me stories about you but I didn't think she was actually talking about The Lena Luthor. Figured the medicines were making her cuckoo bananas nut lady."

"Hey!?" Groans Zara nudging her getting the woman to let go of my hand.

"I dunno you're a weirdo I just found it hard to believe she'd give you the time of day." Sassed Antonella.

"It's my charm that got her."

"And because she forced my hand." I added getting them both to look at me. I simply sipped my martini. "Both times."

"Well I'm sure it was done with good reason." Zara then whispered something in her ear. Then she whispered something back. Great, now we're sharing secrets.

"She's just upset because I outsmarted her into getting her to come eat dinner with me." Spoke Zara sitting back down.

"Well wait until your linguini comes out, that'll change your mind I promise."

"You haven't changed any recipes have you?"

"I'm offended you'd even ask. My Nona would turn in her grave if I ever did such a crime."

"I'm just making sure." Smirked Zara.

"You'll find out in a minute. Your dishes are basically done. I made them both myself personally. I just wanted to come out here and cuss you out for not telling me you had a reservation. Had you told me I would've given you the whole restaurant for the night."

"And take money out your pockets? No way. I couldn't ever ask that of you."

"Well I owe you more than I can ever repay. It wouldn't cost me a dime."

"You don't owe me anything. All I did was do the right thing."

"And I'll forever be grateful. But are you ladies done with the squid? Wanna clear some space for your pasta."

"I mean I'm good. Lena, are you done?" Asked Zara looking at me.

"Ahh yeah. Could you box up the leftovers for me? My girlfriend would probably love them." I don't know what they were whispering about but I did notice the sudden shift in topic. I also peeped how apparently I've been the topic of their conversations before. It could all just be in my head but I feel it should be known to her that I am happily committed to someone. "She made it very clear I'm to bring her home food or I'll be sleeping outside."

"Sure. We can't have one of the cities most powerful women sleeping in a puddle." Smiled Antonella as she gathered up the plates.

"Regardless I'd extend my couch to you if need be. But Kara doesn't have the heart to really do so." Spoke Zara.

"No. She does not mess around when it comes to food. She once ignored me for an entire week because I ate her Goldfish crackers. That was two years ago and she still hasn't forgiven me."

"I get it. My husband ate my baklava when we first started dating and I'm secretly still mad at him."

"Holding grudges does no good to your mental."

"I agree but sometimes it's necessary." I added.

"As long as we don't act on them it's fine. Anyway I'll be back with your food." Antonella then took the plates and walked off into the kitchen.

"Sorry about that. It was my fault, I did forget to mention to her we were coming. But I just didn't want to make a big deal out of it."

"Yeah I get it. Renting out half her restaurant on a usually busy Saturday night dinner service seemed pretty quiet to me. I can't see how the owner found out about this." I nodded seriously.

"She must have spies or something like that I dunno. I wouldn't be surprised if she does."

"We'll never truly know for sure until it's too late."

"Here go the ravioli you ordered." Spoke our waiter as he placed the plate of ravioli on the table. I have to admit I am very impressed with the service here. Haven't even been here forty-five minutes and I've gotten two drinks and two appetizers with my main dish hopefully to follow soon. This is perfect, I'll be home with Kara in no time. "Is everything okay? Can I get you ladies anything?"

"Could I get a glass of water? No lemon." Asked Zara.

"Sure. Anything for you Ms.?" I simply finished off the remaining wine in my glass before speaking.

"I'm alright thank you." The waiter then poured some more wine into my glass. Hmm he's right! I should make sure I don't find the bottom of my wine glass again for the rest of this dinner. "Thank you."

"My pleasure. Okay I'll be back shortly with everything." With that he walked away and I sipped my wine. Then it fell quiet between us two. This didn't bother me because I was busy inspecting the wine. I've done numerous wine tastings so I'm just observing it.

"How do you like the wine?"

"I'm more of a burbon barrel aged wine kind of gal. But like I said before wine is wine." I shrugged not bothering to look at her. I wonder what Kara is doing right now. By now I reckon she probably escaped her bindings and is eating the pizza I ordered her. I miss her terribly. It feels weird eating dinner and not having her cuddled up to my leg. I won't eat too much of my dinner here. I'll take most of it home so I can eat it with her. This way technically we did eat dinner tonight together. I'm essentially here to pick up our food. Ugh I wanna go home now. I don't even care about the food I just want-

"I'm thinking about possibly opening another house in the city here." I definitely forgot where I was.

"Hmm?"

Another safe house for Second Chance. I was thinking since I pretty much live here now it'd make sense to open up a new building here in the city that way those who need help here won't have to go far."

"Oh well that'd be great. You'd have to change the coasters though."

"Yeah but it won't be too troublesome I reckon. Plus if they manage to call the number they'll learn about it before they decide what location they'd want to go to."

"Yeah that's true." I shrugged. I don't know what else to say about that.

"Here we are! Your dinner is served." Chimed Antonella as she came out holding two plates. "My little genie for you." She then placed my plate in front of me. "And a bowl of mayonnaise for you." She smiled placing Zara's down in front of her.

"Oh this looks amazing!" Grinned Zara admiring her food.

"Thank you! Grazie! Only the most top of the line quality meals come out of my kitchen and nothing less." I'm not going to lie my dish smells divine. Most importantly I can smell the garlic and it's got my mouth watering.

"All that means nothing if my taste buds disagree." I spoke picking up my fork.

"Try it and if you hate it I'll know you're lying." Very well. With that I dug into my plate and tried it. Chewing, both of them are looking at me. They must want a show. With that in mind I frowned, making an angry face.

"Uh-oh. I don't like that look."

"Nonsense. Nona never misses. What's the verdict? Should I close down my restaurant forever or have I just gained a new regular." Swallowing my food I let out a long sigh.

"You said you made this yourself?" I asked calmly looking at Antonella.

"Yes I did. Put extra love into it for you. The noodles were fresh made this morning, and I got the shrimp in earlier today, caught yesterday evening." I then turned my attention to Zara.

"Huh. And you said this woman has been bringing your clients these meals on the regular for a while now?"

"Mhmm. Yes." I shook my head no before speaking.

"Well lucky them because it's delicious." I smiled getting them both to visibly relax.

"Nona never misses! Glad to know you have good taste." Smiled Antonella.

"Well you're an excellent cook. Can't believe I've been living in the city for this long and I never knew about this place." I mused because I'm a sucker for a good bowl of pasta. I definitely think I'll be back and next time I'm gonna bring my little cutie with me. If my linguini is this good I'm willing to bet the Alfredo and lasagna are just as good. So if Kara agrees we'll probably be back within the week.

"Well we've only been here for almost two years now. And we are quite a ways away from all the important business buildings so I wouldn't expect you to know about it besides word of mouth." Antonella then placed her hand on Zara's shoulder who is in the middle of shoveling pasta into her mouth. Seeing her doing that made me smile a little. Glad to know she still eats spaghetti noodles the same way she did when we were together. As much as she can fit in her mouth as fast as possible in one bite. "But again I must say it, I'm only here because of this wonderful woman here." That got Zara to let out an annoyed growl and roll her eyes. "Good lord! You know you have to breathe while you eat. That's how eating works."

"As long as I've known her she's been wolfing down pasta like a feral cat." I smirked because as cute as it is, it's funny.

"Are you not feeding her?! I've never-"

"I'm right here! And I'll have both of you know I haven't ate anything all day since breakfast." Zara protested finally swallowing.

"She's lying she just doesn't know how to eat pasta like a civilized human being." I rephrased for her because I know she ate atleast twice today. She forgets I know her and I know her body wouldn't allow her to go all day not eating.

"How about everyone leaves Zara alone to eat her food the way she wants to. At least I'm enjoying myself." Zara followed that up by shoving another forkful of pasta in her mouth making us both laugh. Then from there Antonella went back into the kitchen and we continued on eating our food. But I more so focused on my salad trying not to eat too much of my linguini. The rest of our dinner went by rather smooth and quietly being I just made sure to keep eating or drinking this way I could waste a bit of time before having to respond to whatever said to me. Before I knew it, it was almost ten-thirty and we were putting our jackets on. I made sure I got Kara's food and especially her cannoli. I was excited to finally be getting back to my Kara before I remembered the lie I fashioned about why I was a hour late. And I only remembered because Zara asked me how I was getting home. Thank goodness because I was definitely going to call Leeana but I forgot so I would've been standing here awkwardly. Then again I do have a faster method of transportation that's only a button click away. Anyway that's how I ended up sitting in the back of a car alongside Zara.

"No. I'm probably gonna shower, feed Kara, and then we'll probably snuggle up with a book in bed until she falls asleep. Then I like to try and get a little work done before I fall asleep myself. But most times I can't bring myself to move in fear of waking wifey so I just hold her and read till I get sleepy."

"Ahh okay. What book are you currently reading now?"

"Right now I'm reading Joyland. Kara picked it out because she claimed it had an interesting cover and that she likes amusement parks. But she's only ever awake the first twenty minutes of us reading it then she's sleep. Every single time but it's our thing and I'm just happy she supports my reading habits."

"That's the one by Stephen right?"

"Mhmm."

"I read that one. It's good you're going to be surprised by the ending."

"So far it's good. Halfway through it now so we'll see. Hopefully I'll be able to finish it tonight if I don't fall asleep too soon. I'm very full and I'm doing my best not to fall asleep right now."

Well I'm happy you enjoyed dinner. I told you it wouldn't be so bad."

"Yeah that's true. But you still never told me the oh so very important six billion dollar thing you needed to tell me."

"Oi that is true." She giggled nervously obviously a little hesitant.

"Yep. It's the reason you blackmailed me into coming tonight."

"It wasn't blackmailing. Just aggressive convincing."

"You say potato, I say fries. Now out with it." She let out out a deep breath and ran a hand through her hair. She then began to fiddle with the bracelet on her wrist before she began explaining.

"We broke up because I thought I was protecting you. But in reality all I did was hurt you. I tore us apart for no reason other than because I was scared of what you'd think of me."

Flashback Zara's POV

(Insert that rape/sexual abuse trigger warning here)

"No baby. I told you I can't tell you what I got you. The whole point of Christmas is to not know what presents you got until Christmas morning." I giggled as I'm unpacking my clothes. My dad just dropped me off back on campus and I couldn't be any more excited. I mean don't get me wrong I love the holidays. Being with my family is always a fun time but it didn't feel right this year to me. My entire family was there except my girlfriend. We've been together for a year and a half and I feel like it's time she met my family. I really really love her and I know they will too. Maybe I'll take her home with me on spring break.

"Well in my family we simply ask what each other wants and we get that exactly. No surprise just straight to the point."

"Baby that is so depressing. You must've had a horrific childhood."

"It was. But I've grown from it and I think I turned out ok."

"Mmm more like turned out sexy." I smiled looking over at my bed and remembering the last time we laid together. It was the day before winter break and we spent the entire evening in bed until our parents called saying they were in the parking lot.

"The same can be said about you my beautiful lover. I can't wait to see you. This was the longest week of my entire existence." She whined cutely. I bet she's making her adorable pout.

"I miss you too Lee. I want a kiss.. I want lots of kisses."

"Tomorrow Bean. I'll give you a billion kisses all over. And I've a gift for you."

"A gift?!" It was here I stopped at my desk and was looking at the photo of us together from our romantic dinner on our first anniversary. We look so good together. Our kids are going to have milfs as parents growing up.

"Yes. And I can't wait to give it to you."

"Are you gonna give me a little something else too? You know like a finger or two? Maybe a little tongue action?" It's something about the holiday spirit that just makes me wanna cuddle up to my girlfriend and just be with her always. I haven't been touched in a week and I know Lena needs me. She's a fiend and it's my job to be there when she needs me.

"Oh well fucking you silly was already a given but I suppose I can put it in a box and let you open it. Being at the Luthor mansion drives me mad so I've got some tension built up for you sweetheart. You've just gotta be ready for me. Spent most of this break thinking about the next time I get to see you naked. I've got a game plan this time." She purred in her sexy low voice giving me tingles. Her random vulgarity just makes it so hard to resist her.

"A game plan?"

"Yep. Just know I do intend to score when I get there."

"I'll be sure to be ready for you." When I said that she let out a small growl letting me know she's becoming aroused too. "Gonna get all cute and sexy for you."

"Erg. Great, I can't wait to see you."

"One more sleep and then I'll be in between your thighs."

"Exactly where you belong. But I gotta let you go Bean. I gotta finish packing. I just wanted to check in. Make sure you got back to campus okay."

"Awe but I-"

"No buts. I'm leaving here first thing tomorrow morning so I'll be there hopefully by noon. I wanna pack now so I can get to bed at a decent time. It's about to be six-thirty. Soo I'm gonna try and be in by eight, nine the latest." I've always loved how planned and organized my girlfriend is. Perks of dating a future scientist.

"I miss you! I like hearing your voice. Can't you talk as you pack?" She let out a small giggle.

"I would love nothing more. But did you forget you stole my headphones?" Right when she said that I looked at her headphones that I borrowed for the trip home. She's such a sweetie pie letting me take them. I had misplaced mine and couldn't find them in time before I had to go, so she gave me hers. Took them right out her ears and MP3 to give to me. It's the little things she does like this that keep me so drawn into her.

"You said I could use them."

"I don't recall such a conversation."

*knock knock knock*

"That's okay because I remember. Hold on though someone is at my door."

"Okay well you go answer and I'll call you before bed."

"It's not you at my door is it? Because I'll beat you if it's you."

"Sadly I'm not my love. But go answer I wanna know who the Fuck is talking to MY Girlfriend! Pretty sure I made it clear to everyone you're mine." I absolutely adore how possessive Lena is over me. Sometimes it's a bit much, but it lets me know she loves and cares about me. And I know she's not off entertaining anyone else because most of the time she's always with me. I knew from our very first morning after when she brought me breakfast that I had to have her for myself. So I decided to be the perfect girl for her, show her what she has to look forward to. I just hate that it took her so long to realize she belonged with me. My heart was pounding giving her that ultimatum but she didn't give me any other options. She always came back to me after everyone else so I took a gamble on that and it worked out perfectly. I don't think I can ever see myself not being with Lena. She's the bread to my jelly.

"Okay let's go see." I then went to my door and opened it. To my surprise it's McKayla. The very same girl who I almost started to date had Lena not come out of nowhere and decided she wanted to be with me. And Lena has made it very very clear I'm not to hang around her. I'm not even allowed to talk to her so I can't imagine what she's doing here bothering me for. I can say however I've no intention to defy my girlfriend's wishes. Besides I wanna be ready for when my baby comes back tomorrow.

"Hey!"

"Who's at the door?" I love Lena and I never lie to her. But I know for a fact that if I tell her it's McKayla she's going to freak out. She has no real reason to doubt my loyalty to her at all. Lena is the love of my life and I don't want anyone but her. But I know how she gets when I'm around other people without her. I know about her birth mother and her father so I understand why she's so protective of me. But I've gone above and beyond numerous times to prove myself worthy of her trust. It's something very few people can say they have. And by few I mean like me and two other people.

"It's just Ary. He's probably here to harass me about nothing." It's a small white lie. I've no intentions to talk to this woman longer than a minute and Lena will never know.

"He needs to get a boyfriend like ASAP."

"I know but you know how he is."

"About as crazy as they come."

"Exactly. But I'll let you go now baby. You make sure you don't forget my present."

"Oh I wouldn't dare. I'm keeping it warm for you as we speak."

"Good. I can't wait to eat it. I'll see you tomorrow afternoon."

"Tomorrow afternoon. I love you Zara." Hearing her say that makes my heart jump with joy.

"I love you too Lena." With that I blew her a kiss before hanging up. I then turned my attention to the woman at my door.

"How uh.. how was your break?"

"It was good, thank you for asking. Anyway what can I do for you?"

"I was wondering if you needed the answer key to the Psychology midterm?"

"Uhh no someone put it in the group chat so I already took and passed it."

"Oh okay." She mumbled looking at her feet.

"Yeah. Thanks though. I'll see you ar-"

"I need you to do me a solid. Please! It's nothing crazy. I just need you to be my wingman to this little party my guy friends are having. I don't know if they invited any other females but I sure as hell don't want to be the only one there."

"Don't you have other friends who'll go with you." I've no desire to go to a party. Especially one with a bunch of guys who'll probably try and flirt with me. Really I just feel uncomfortable going to parties without my girlfriend by my side.

"None of them come back to campus until tomorrow. Come on please! Lena won't be back until tomorrow so you have no real excuse not to. Besides she doesn't even know we're here having this conversation and we can keep it that way if you just do me this solid." I let out a sigh because she's got me cornered. "We don't have to stay long like two hours minimum. I just don't want to be stuck in a room full of a bunch of dudes. Just this one favor and I'll never ask anything of you again. Please Zara." This doesn't sit right with me. Something tells me I probably shouldn't but I have to follow girl code. Girls don't let girls be around a bunch of college dudes by herself.

"Fine but Only because I can't let you go to a party by yourself. It's purely a girl code thing, that's it."

"Thank you!"

"What time does it start?" I sighed. Now I've gotta make something up as to where I am.

…

"I think me and you would look so good together."

"Maybe but I've a girlfriend so sadly we'll never know for sure." I shrugged sipping the last of my drink. I've been babysitting this vodka punch since we got here an hour ago. From the moment I walked in I've been hit on by probably every guy in this party. I didn't really even bother to get dressed up or put on a face. Only proving that guys don't care about my appearance just what's in my pants. I'm happy to see that we weren't the only two females who showed up. But we are definitely outnumbered. I really want to go because I'm a lesbian in a sausage party and I am very uncomfortable. I just want to talk to my Lena and go to bed. I have no idea where McKayla went. She walked away from me ten minutes ago and I hope she didn't get lost or anything.

"You have a girlfriend?"

"Yup. And I love her and she loves me. And one day I hope we'll share a home and a few kids."

"Would you two be willing to share me?" He asked with a stupid smirk. This is what I call a security moment and usually now is where Lena comes and tells off whichever person is hitting on one of us. God I miss her more than ever right now. What I'd give to be with her right now.

"Ew."

"Donavan! Get away from her. If she said no it means no." Interrupted McKayla finally coming back. Never thought I'd be happy to see her.

"Well sometimes no means yes. I was just trying to see what her wavelength is."

"It's gay. I'm a gay. A homosexual." I enunciated so his little squirrel brain can understand.

"Just go." Laughed McKayla pushing him away from us. "Sorry I was gone so long. Holden was introducing me to his friends and I forgot I came with a friend."

"I figured you found him." On our walk over she gave me the run down about Holden. He's the guy she's chasing after and the reason I got dragged to the stupid party.

"Yeah. Oh here." She then held up another solo cup full with more punch. Awesome.. well whatever makes it easier to bare this party. Taking it from her I sipped it. Hmm it definitely tastes a lot stronger than the other cup. Good maybe it'll give me a buzz faster.

"How does it taste?"

"Stiff but it'll have to do." I hope the next stiff thing I put in my mouth comes from my girlfriend.

"Good you seemed like you needed something stronger. Anyway you wanna go meet him?"

"Sure why not. Just don't leave me alone at this party again. And thanks for the refill."

"I won't I promse. Come on." She then interlaced our hands and began leading me in a direction. Then suddenly we're talking to Holden and his friend Tate. I checked out halfway through the conversation because I can't quite seem to get my thoughts together over the thumping bass.

"What about you Zara? What's your craziest high school party moment?" Asked.. I forget his name and honestly my vision is a little blurry right now. I think I underestimated the strength of the drink she made me. I mean I definitely didn't eat before I came so maybe that's it?

"Huh?"

"What's the craziest high school party you've been to?" Asked one of the guys again.

"Oh umm.. I'm a nerd. The best I can tell you is about the Star Wars themed sleepover party I went to for my friend's sixteenth birthday." I somehow managed out through my clouded mind. I don't feel okay. Something isn't right. I feel drunk but way too loose to be caused by the two drinks I've had.

"Really? You don't seem like the type." Spoke I assume McKayla being shes the only other female in our circle right now.. I think.

"I-I'm a nerd in disguise. B-but where's the bathroom?"

"You okay Z?" Asked McKayla putting her arm around me. I shook my head no.

"I think I just.. just need some water or something."

"Okay let's go." She then lead me through the party and into a random bathroom. There she leaned me up against the counter. "What's up with you? You're sweating like crazy."

"Ugh I feel light headed. I wanna go home."

"Do you want some water or something?" I turned on the faucet to the coldest it could get and splashed it onto my face. I regret coming out tonight. I want my girlfriend."Zar?"

"Please take me home. I wanna go home." I spoke looking down at the sink but I'm seeing doubles. I can't tell where my hands start and the sink ends. "I want my girlfriend." I'm in an unfamiliar place with someone I hardly know, surrounded by strangers, and I can't even see straight. "I had t-two drinks and I think one of them was laced." And then suddenly I'm walking into my dorm room.

"Hey! Wake up." I heard then suddenly I'm back in reality and McKayla is helping me undress.

"Mmm where's Lena?" She's all I can think about.

"Shh." And then I felt what I think was a kiss on my neck. I dunno but I really want her to go. "I got you beautiful."

"N-no! Where Lena?" I got out trying to push her away but my body isn't responding long enough. "No." And then I blacked out again.

"You're so beautiful. I can't help myself you're so sexy." I heard in my ear bringing me back to the surface and I'm laying in bed and someone is on top of me. I'm here but I'm not here. I want my girlfriend. I can't do anything but just lay here. I have no idea how long this happened because I unplugged from my senses. Helplessness. All I can do is lay here and feel these fingers on me. I want with everything to make it stop, but I've no control. I was zoned out until I felt a new presence enter the room. Then for a minute I was stone cold sober. And in that ten seconds of clarity I locked eyes with her.

"Lena!" Save me please! I watched as she observed the situation in horror and I'm trapped unable to move or utter another word. Then the door slammed shut and she was gone as fast as she appeared. My only chance of being saved from torment.. gone.

"That was unplanned. Looks like you're all mine now." She smiled looking up at me. I hope this is a dream. And then everything went black. Please god let this all be just a dream.

Then next afternoon

Waking up my body feels so sore. I have a huge pounding headache and I feel sick. Next thing I'm making a dash for my trash can. Two drinks and I'm throwing up? Wait? Wait where are my clothes? I don't remember taking them off yet they're on the floor. What the hell happened here last night? I don't remember much about last night. I remember being at the party and now I'm in my dorm. Surveying my room nothing really seems out of place. But I don't feel good. What the fuck happened last night? Why can't I remember any damn thing? I-I think I was drugged no doubt in my mind.. I'm a lightweight but I've been drunk before and what I felt last night wasn't the affect of alcohol. Going to my mini fridge I grabbed out a water and chugged it. Once I drank enough I sat on my bed. And that's when flashes of the night started replying in my head. I.. I was.. fuck! All I can do is cry.

I dunno how long I cried but it was long enough for me to accidentally fall asleep. When I woke up again my first instinct is to call the person I trust with my life, Lena. But I remember vividly that she saw it and she won't believe me. I lied to her about where I was going, then I paid heavily for it today. So my next option is my dad. I just want to go home. I'm in shock I don't want this to be true. Searching for my phone I found it buried in the pile of my clothes. Looking at it I've several missed calls and texts from Lena. Seeing them my heart is breaking even more. She legit walked in on me being assaulted and thinks I cheated on her. The love of my life came into my room where I was probably roofied, I don't know, and only saw me laid out with.. with.. no! No.. the tears at this point I can't see straight. My life is over. I want to die. How pathetic is my life now taken advantage of by another woman I knew. And that makes it worse. I don't know if I can live with that kind of embarrassment. I want my Dad. So somehow through all the tears I managed to call him.

"Miss us already my little princess?" Hearing his voice I immediately started to cry harder. "Woah! Zara baby what's the matter? What ha-"

"Daddy I think I was raped!" I cried up before utterly beginning to sob into the phone. Saying it out loud cuts deeper that it did when I was speculating it. I don't know how long I stayed on the phone with my dad but it was long enough for me to calm down, long enough for him to tell me he's coming to get me and to pack my stuff because I'm not staying here any longer. Unfortunately he had to hang up to make other phone calls to the school and other people. He told me not to do anything but stay in my room and not to shower or move anything in my room. I'm my father's only daughter so I do whatever he says. So I laid in my bed just staring at the ceiling. I'm dead. I'm just a disgusting shell of a woman. All I can think about is Lena. I broke her heart. I should've told her where I was going last night. She would've known I wasn't okay when she came in last night. She could've stopped it but she didn't know. She didn't know I was being assaulted and honestly I think it's best to stay that way. As much as it's breaking my heart I have to push her away. I can't tell her the truth about this. She doesn't deserve to be with someone like me. She doesn't deserve a whore for a wife. Tainted goods. Lena deserves better than me. I'd rather her think I cheated on her over the idea of having to tell her I was raped by someone we both know. Spare her the guilt of knowing what she really walked in on. I'm no longer worthy of her. She'll be better off without me and knowledge that it is all my fault. All of this is my fault and I've to deal with it. I don't want to, but I have to break up with her. For the sake of her heart in the long run I cheated on her and that's what she saw. She wouldn't want to be with me anymore if she knew the truth so I'll spare myself the embarrassment and tell her I don't love her. If I break her heart she won't stay stuck on me and she'll find a way to heal and move on from me. I don't want her stuck on me because I know she wouldn't want me anymore if she knew the entire truth. I'm so sorry I let you down Lena but this is what's best.

End of flashback Lena's POV

"Yeah and so that's why after that day you didn't see me anymore on campus." All I can do is stare at her. She's pretending like it's no big deal. But this is way far nowhere even close to being something to take down with just a spoonful of sugar.

"Wait.. I walked in… how do I know you aren't lying to me? I reckon you'd say anything to get me to give you your way." She let out a chuckle and put her hand on my knee.

"Lena I've never lied to you. The one time I did.. well I just told you about where that got me. That one little lie cost me more than it was ever worth not telling you where I was going that night. I was very serious every time I told you I loved you Lee. You were my everything and I knew you were the only one for me. I have never had a reason to lie to you and I sure as hell wouldn't fashion a lie about how I'm a survivor just to talk to you. I mean after all I'm not doing this for you. I'm doing this for me.." As I'm watching her the street lights are illuminating her face and I can't see a break anywhere. She might actually be telling the truth and that's gonna be a big problem. "You wanna know the real reason I jumped at Cat's invitation to her gala?"

"Why?"

"Because my therapist told me that I needed to get closure with the final piece of my puzzle. She told me that if I ever truly want to recover and move on from that night, I have to right the first big mistake I made in my eventual long road of mistakes. I threw you away for no other real reason because I didn't want you to think any less of me like I was some sort of coward, or whore because I was raped. I was in a dark place and I couldn't bring myself to drag you down it with me. I knew you had a bright future ahead of you and it wouldn't be fair of me to dull it with my problems."

"Oh." I have no words. What the hell do I do with this information. The past ten years I spent holding a grudge against her was a complete waste of space. I've been mad at her over false pretenses and that makes me feel too many emotions. I'm not used to carrying such baggage. If anything now I feel guilty for not intervening. And the icing to it all is I literally walked in on her being assaulted and ran off crying. I could have possibly saved her and I chickened out and did nothing.

"I didn't mean anything I said that day. I just said things I knew would hurt you so it'd make it easy for you to not stay stuck on me. In that moment I really only knew that you thought I cheated on you going in there. It wasn't my ideal way of ending things with you but I figured I'd rather be labeled a cheater than the girl who got raped by another girl." I think the part that hurts the most is that she thought that I'd break up with her after having been raped. In fact I don't think I would've even met Kara if she just told me about what happened then. I probably would've married her by now. And now here they come.. the boxes I thought I chained up and threw down to the very back of my feelings never to be seen again. I am very overwhelmed right now. All I can do is swallow and hold back the tears that want to fall.

"That uhh… that's a lot to take in. I see why you insisted we did this over… well after drinks. I actually need another one." I then looked up at her and she's got that stupid pout on her face. The same adorable button nose and dimples that always made me a fool for her. As soon as that thought crossed my mind I looked away from her. I'd be lying if I said I don't miss her in some small part of me. Then to now find out I've been missing her for no reason. And the idea that she'd still be mine had she just told me the truth…

"It's a lot to take in but I don't want to live in the shadows you've cast me in." And then suddenly her hand is wiggling it's way into mine. "I'm sorry I was selfish and hurt you whilst I self-destructed. I should've just told you.. maybe then things would be different today." Looking down at our hands allowed a tear to fall down my face. I was trying my best to hold my emotions in but this just exploited them. "Still the softest ice block I've ever held." She mumbled to herself looking at our intertwined hands. Fuck! Fuck! Fuck this is soo lame. I gotta get out of this car or just away from her.. I need time to process this.

"I don't know what to say. I don't know how to process this."

"Well you know the truth now. Process it how you must but I deserve to be rightfully put back in the light I was in before my assault." I, thankfully, didn't have time to think of a response because my phone began to ring startling me. In doing so I pulled my hand from hers because I need it to get my phone and because I don't wish to hold her hand... at least not for years now. Moving to look at my phone it's Kara. I texted her to let her know I was on my way to her. I didn't tell her I was riding with Zara so she's probably calling wondering where her cannoli is.

"Hi baby." I spoke softly because once again Kara saves my day without even knowing it.

"Don't hi baby me, I'm mad at you! Hi cutie, where are you?" Looking out the window to observe my surroundings I'm only three blocks from my apartment.

"I am three blocks away. Why what's the matter?"

"I miss you and I'm cold and I want attention."

"Okay that can be a thing in ten minutes or less." I definitely need to blow off some steam. But first I want a shot of anything that burns going down.

"Okay."

"I got you your cannoli." I spoke slowly trying to prolong this conversation as long as possible. It was also about here that I began to gather up my things.

"How was dinner? Was it better than staying home with me?! Because I had fun here without you, I made s'mores and made friendship bracelets and told scary stories." She asked aggressively to emphasize her annoyance and jealousy. She's seriously the cutest. My beacon of light.

"I'll tell you when I get up there. Had to bum a ride off Zara thanks to someone not doing what they were instructed to do." Kara knows I'm talking about her. Zara just thinks I'm talking about the idiot who put a dent in my Rolls-Royce causing me to be an hour late to dinner.

"But-"

"No buts. Just need to remember to call my car dealership tomorrow to see about getting her fixed."

"I'm sure they didn't mean it."

"Nobody ever really means anything they say in high emotion situations." When I said that I looked over at Zara.

"I had my reasons." She spoke softly before I turned away from her.

"Well come home and we can talk more about it. It's past our bed time." It was here we stopped in front of my building.

"I know love. But I'm on my way up to you now."

"Do you have my cannolis?"

"I decided you might like a kale smoothie instead so I got you that." I smirked because I can only imagine the cute disgusted face she's probably making right now.

"I'm locking you out until you can produce one like you promised. Don't come home without at least a decent snack for me." And then she hung up. She's such an ass sometimes but I love it. Gives me all the more reason to tie her to my bedpost tonight.

"That little brat." I grumbled to myself as I put my phone back into my purse.

"You know I really do mean it when I say I'm happy you're doing well. I can tell that Kara really makes you happy." I simply looked at her. "You've that stupid 'in love' smirk on just like you'd do when I was being a brat towards you." I shrugged and began digging through my purse for my keys.

"She definitely keeps me on my toes. All I've to do is feed her and she doesn't give me any problems." It was here I remembered that Kara confiscated my keys therefore it's a good thing I brought her lunch for tomorrow, her cannolis, and a little midnight snack for us both to share once I'm inside. "That little weirdo is my best friend and I'm very content waking up to her beautiful face every morning. She's way out of my league so I've no choice but to be good to her." It was here I decided to look up at her. I've no idea what to think of Zara anymore. All I can think about now is what if. Tonight definitely took a turn I didn't think it'd ever make. I don't know how I feel about it. I just know I wanna go cuddle with my Kara.

"She's interesting so I understand. Thank you for telling her my favorite drink. I was confused at first but then it clicked after she told me she used Stieva and gave me a banana as well. You're the only person here who knows my condition so I know you told her."

"Well for some reason she insisted I tell her because she wants to get on your good side. In fact she's made it her mission to get you to like her. Which by the way has to happen because I held up my end of the deal."

"Very true."

"I listened to your side like promised. Please stop threatening my girl's job. She loves it there, it is not hard to tell. If you can't see it in her articles then you'll see it more and more over time. The fact that she is going out her way to try and get to know you should be more than enough evidence."

"Okay. I can give her another chance I suppose. Second chances have become important to me. But I'll only give her another chance if I get one with you." I couldn't help but to scuff at that.

"It just doesn't end with you does it?"

"Nothing you didn't already know. We're business women it's only natural." I just let out a laugh before opening the door.

"You got me there. Sadly however your time with me tonight is over. I'm on Kara time now and she's most likely up there watching me." I spoke poking my head out the car and looking up to the top of my apartment building.

"You guys live together?"

"No, but we basically do." It was here I did a final glance around to make sure I had all my stuff. I then got out of the car.

"Wait on it."

"Yeah. Anyway thank you for dinner."

"It's nothing. Let's just make it the first of many more?"

"I don't know about all that but if you wish to buy us lunch one afternoon we sure won't decline." Gotta let it be known now the only way she'll see me again is if Kara isn't too far behind me.

"We?"

"Me and Kara, we." She let out a small giggle while looking out her window. "Tonight was the longest we've been apart since Friday. She goes wherever I go. But surly you remember how possessive I am, it never changed." She stared at me like she was about to say something but didn't.

"Goodnight Lena."

"Goodnight." I smiled softly. I still can't look at her and just not get upset. A wasted heartbreak. It was also here my phone began to ring again. My wifey senses are tingling so I bet it's Kara. Backing away from the car I dug in my purse again for my phone. Finding it, it's Kara.

"Turn around." Weird. I turned around and there she is in my Stitch onesie looking as adorable as ever.

"Surly a sight for my sore eyes." I spoke just admiring her and how I hope she's not wearing anything underneath it.

"Well you are on Kara time now."

"Hi Kara!" Chimed Zara poking her head out the car.

"Mmm I'm pretty sure I left you tied up to my bed." I spoke softly because I know she'll hear me.

"Hi Zara. Thank you for bringing my girlfriend back in one piece." It was here She hung up and came to be standing next to me. She is so fucking in trouble. "Hi baby." Kara then placed a kiss on my lips before taking the bag of leftovers and my purse from me. I've missed her so naturally I stole a few more kisses.

"Cute onsie. I have a penguin one." Spoke Zara.

"Then you understand the level of comfort I'm on and my need for cuddles." Oh she'll be getting more than cuddles. It was a simple direction and she just couldn't obey. And she chose a bad time to do so because after the new information I just learned I need to blow off steam.

"I surely hope coming down here is worth it in the long run." I smiled cocking my head to the side as I squeezed her forearm.

"I just really missed you." She pouted batting her eyes.

"I bet. Anyway thanks again for dinner." I spoke turning my attention back to Zara.

"It was my pleasure. I certainly do hope this helped shed some light on everything that happened. Nothing has changed but the time and place." I'm in a glass box of emotions right now and the only way I can think of to deal with it is to take it out on my girlfriend in bed.

"Hopefully next time I get invited because I feel-"

"Blue, inside now." I demanded looking at Kara. She still has that same pout but I don't feel bad. She's getting it when we get upstairs. "You're already in trouble don't make it worse."

"Bye boss lady." She spoke sounding sad waving to Zara.

"I'll see you Monday." Kara then gave me her pouty face again this time letting a single tear escape her eye. I couldn't help but to smile she's so damn extra. At the same time it might be the first of many tears she sheds tonight I haven't decided yet.

"Mistress." I gave her a quick peck before nudging her away from me towards the door.

"Wait for me upstairs where you're supposed to be." A simple instruction to which she followed. I stood and watched as she went inside and got on an elevator.

"Being CEO made you pretty bossy huh?"

"I get my way or nothing at all. You know that."

"I remember. Though it wasn't fair because it's hard to resist those eyes. Especially when they're that stupid silver blue color. Would melt me every time."

"It's why Kara listens to me. But if you excuse me I've gotta go train my naughty alien. See ya." With that I nodded then closed the car door. Oh how I wish this car would drive away with her in it and never return. Letting out a sigh I turned and headed inside.

"Wait Lena!" Looking back Zara is waving me over through the window.

"What?"

"I forgot to give this to you." And then she held out her hand that appeared to have a box in it. I don't trust that at all but I do want to know what it is. Going back over to her it appears to be a gold star shaped gift box with a white ribbon around it. "Took me a lot longer to find exactly this but I need you to know I meant it when I said I deserve a second chance. You said this is the only way to get you to reconsider, so I like to hope I'll get a reply if I text you tomorrow." I don't know what to say to that so I simply took the box from her. It's got a decent weight to it being the box is small enough to hold in my palm. "I'm sorry I hurt you for no reason Lena. I just didn't know what to do. I thought I was protecting you but I see now all it did was hurt you." My heart is hurting and I don't like it. My first true love ended for no reason. I could be living a totally different life had she just been honest with me. I don't want to talk to her anymore today. I wanna go to bed. She really sounded genuine and that hurts me a lot more than I can let on.

"I'm sorry too." Looking at her one last time I almost want to cry. She broke my heart because she doubted my love for her. And that's what hurts the most about this entire situation. "Night." With that I put the box into my coat pocket and turned on my heels heading inside. The entire time I walked I couldn't help but to keep my hand on the box in my pocket. What's inside it? I want to know but I don't want her to think I'd go back to her.. I simply don't know if I could. Once I got inside I pressed for an elevator. I don't know why but something said to look outside.. so I did. She's still outside watching me. And now my head is being plagued with what if's. Thankfully the elevators in my building are fast so it was only a matter of time before one dinged open. Stepping on I pressed for the top floor and stood waiting. As bad as I don't want to my curiosity is killing me. Taking out the box I pulled the ribbon and opened the box. Pulling out the glass sphere I couldn't stop my heart from doing a squeeze. I wasn't being serious when I originally said it, but she obviously thought I was. She gifted me the entire universe in a little star shaped box with a ribbon on top. Damn it! By the time I processed what's in my hand the elevator doors opened and I put it back in the box before heading towards my apartment. Getting there I had to take a deep breath because I have no idea how I'm going to go look my current girlfriend in the eyes like everything is okay when I just found out my ex girlfriend and I broke up because she doubted my love for her and caused us to break up for no reason. It hurts so much because I would've stuck by her side and fought for her had she just told me the truth but for some stupid reason she didn't. And now I've gotta figure out how to process it all without making it obvious that my heart is hurting.

Putting the box back in my pocket I took another deep breath. I never would've guessed my night would turn out this way based on how it started. The thing I need most is a hug from my best friend. Trying the door it's unlocked so I walked in. To my surprise Kara is kneeling right in front of the door. She's still wearing the onesie but it's unzipped giving me a beautiful view of her cleavage and abdomen. But the part that really cleared my thoughts is she's kneeled, back straight, hands behind her back, and has the leash to her collar in her mouth. It also helps she's got the hood up over her head so she literally looks so innocent and submissive. I've got myself a cute little alien ready to serve and please me. She's mine and I know she wouldn't lie to me because she's scared of how I'd react to the truth. "Hello Blue." I spoke, locking the door behind me. "I don't know how or why you escaped your bindings but you somehow managed to perfectly time it again saving me from having to deal with her." I then began talking off my jacket to hang it up. "I missed you terribly. I'm gonna do my best never to go to dinner without you ever again." I then walked up to her and took the leash out her mouth. "It was weird eating and not feeling you cuddled up to my leg while I feed you." I then leaned down and gave her a kiss. Ugh how I love these soft lips.

"You're never allowed to eat dinner without me ever again."

"As you wish." Giving her another kiss I clipped the leash to her collar. "Up." A simple instruction and she got to her feet. Once that happened I kicked off my heels and wrapped my arms around her inside her onsie and hugged her for dear life. I'm still in shock and being wrapped in her arms snuggled into her neck is my most ideal place right now. She picked up on it and hugged me back even placing a kiss on my head.

"I'm yours Lena. I'm never going to hurt you. Ever."

---

So here we are. Take a moment to process the predicament Lena is in right now. Yeah Ik. Ain't that about a bitch right? I don't know how to handle all that mush either. But honestly it's the entire universe inside a star shaped box with a ribbon on top for me! (Insert crying emoji) Now you see why Zara was so persistent. She's not vengeful just hopeful and that is where it evens out. But past that, leave it to Kara to somehow always know when to show up because she helped us dodge the blood splatter after the bullet hit because that was a shot through the heart. Fuck this chapter was heavy and thnx for sitting through it. Next chapter is definitely a lot lighter and honestly really cute. I've started it already and I can assure you there is plenty of Kara being the perfect wife she is for Lena in it. A Karen, a tulip, and food are involved so you can snack on that for now. Sorry there wasn't any smut this chapter but I reckon you probably didn't even notice. Then again pandas are actually black with white spots so I may be wrong. However I usually am always right. You know what tho? I'm not gonna lie I'm kinda into the Lena/Zara dynamic. Hear me out first! I just wonder how they'd mix as two super smart powerful women working together for the greater good. It'd be... Lol no. No I'm lying I hate it. I'm honestly a really big Docubus shipper so I'm just over here vibing. Okay that's all I've got to say today. Now go take this time to let this chapter sink in before the next. Get ur shit together and then we'll meet again soon. Till then remember, Everybody wants to be a cat cuz a cats' the only cat who knows where it's at. ~Joz #fuckitup