Momochan77: Aw thank you! I've been trying to make it as realistic as possible, especially since they're both teenagers. In this chapter, I wanted to write how Calypso kind of has these mixed feelings about liking Kaldur because she's never experienced something like this before. I know when I was 15 and had a crush on someone; I didn't know how to think properly, lol. Anyway, I hope you like this chapter!
Thank you all so much for your support. I hope you're staying safe and well. Enjoy the chapter!
πΆπ©πππ‘ππ πΈπππ©π‘- Downtime
"Crash down to my knees.
Their fears and hopes flood over me.
Your hand finds my own.
And shows me that I'm not alone."
MOUNT JUSTICE
AUGUST 27, 07:58 EDT
"I need to talk to Aqualad. The rest of you hit the showers and head home." Batman's oh-so cheery voice greeted us as we entered the Cave.
I felt a hand slip into my own, keeping me from walking. My brow furrowed, looking up at the culprit - Kaldur. I could tell he was trying to hide his nervousness and disappointment. He seemed so upset with himself and all I wanted to do was hug him.
I squeezed his hand gently, giving him a small smile. I tried to ignore the heat rising to my cheeks. Friends hold each other's hands for comfort right? I probably shouldn't read too much into it. Just be there for Kaldur, I reminded myself.
Everyone was not in the best mood - we lost against Clayface and Batman had to come save us. Everything was going great until Aqualad ordered us to split up and it went downhill from there.
Ever since Kaldur told me he was thinking of going home to Atlantis, he's been distracted. I tried my best to snap him out of it but going home was consuming his mind. This morning was the final straw.
"Head home?" Superboy raised his mud covered arms to gesture to the Cave. "I am home." He, M'gann, and Wally all left, probably to the showers, while Robin, Kaldur, and I stayed back.
Batman's eyes narrowed at me, then his protege. "Just Aqualad." I could feel Kaldur tense beside me, not ready for what the older Bat had to say. Robin glanced between the Atlantean and his mentor, scowling, and stalked past him.
I chewed on my bottom lip, worried about what he was going to say to our leader. I patted the Alantean's arm and gave his hand another squeeze before stepping away. His eyes locked with mine, his features clearly saying 'don't leave' and I hoped he could read my expression as I smiled: everything's gonna be okay.
As I showered, I couldn't help the twinge in my stomach, like something bad was going to happen. I tried to ignore it, washing away all the grime and dirt. I changed into a pair of black sweatpants and a gray sweater, finally happy to be mud free.
I noticed Artemis and Robin already left while Wally stayed. I was going to question why he was still here, until I noticed M'gann cooking breakfast - pancakes, eggs, sausage, bacon. Superboy was watching her, his arms crossed, neither looking happy or angry.
Wally's mouth was practically watering. "Babe, you're amazing!" he tried to reach for a slice of bacon but a floating spatula smacked his hand. "Ouch!"
"Breakfast isn't ready yet." the Martian chided, her hand on her hip. "No touching!"
"But I'm hungry." he pouted. "Fighting Clayface really made me hungry plus, I'm a speedster. I have an insatiable appetite."
Even after an unsuccessful mission, M'gann's ability to make the best out of it made me smile. I rolled my eyes at Wally's retort. "That seems like a you problem."
"Ouch!" Wally held his heart after dramatically gasping. "Not you too, babe."
"Don't," I flicked his forehead, pouring myself a glass of water, "call me babe."
He rubbed his temple, grumbling, "Riiight, 'cause you're Kaldur's babe. I forgot."
My eyes widened as I almost choked on my drink. M'gann slyly grinned, sending me a wink. Is it that obvious that I like Kaldur? I flushed, turning away to hide my embarrassment. "Whatever West."
"Aha! You didn't deny it!"
I ignored the ginger, glancing at M'gann. "I'm heading out to Detroit. Call me if you need me."
"Will do." The Martian nodded as she successfully flipped a pancake by using only the frying pan. "Yes!"
"Good job, babe!" Wally cheered, mouth full of scrambled eggs and sausage. Only Wally.
"Superboy, do you want to try?"
The clone eyed the now leaning tower of pancakes. "Try what exactly?"
M'gann giggled, handing him the spatula. "Flip a pancake, silly!"
"...why?"
"Because it's fun, duh."
I chuckled before leaving to grab a few things from my room and left for the Zeta tube. I haven't seen Mari in a while. I missed her, of course, but she was still acting so distant. She would call and text to check up on me, but I could tell something was off.
Although, after everything that's happened with Kaldur... I needed my mom more than ever.
"Wait, Calypso!"
I turned at the sound of the gingers's voice, tilting my head in confusion. What did Wally want?
He speed to a stop in front of me. "Hey, uh," he cleared his throat nervously, "I just wanted to apologize for what I said earlier."
"Wha- oh! Wally, you don't need to say sorry for that. You didn't offend me."
He sighed in relief, running his fingers through his hair. "Good because after what M'gann told me and connecting the dots from what Kaldur's said... I didn't want to uh, y'know-" I raised my eyebrows and his eyes widened. "Nevermind! Forget I said anything."
"Wally."
"Nope! I'm sworn to secrecy!"
"Wally."
"Sorry babe, you're not getting anything else outta me-"
"Wally!" I placed my hands over his mouth, stopping him from talking. As much as I wanted to pry about what he meant about Kaldur, I held my tongue. It wouldn't be right. Besides, if what Wally was implying (Kaldur liking me?) is true... no, it can't be. Just friends. Just friends. "It's okay, really." I removed my hands, placing them into my pockets. "Anyway, I appreciate the apology. You didn't have to."
"Are you sure you're not mad?" the ginger sounded genuine, which caught me off guard. His non-joking attitude was strange, but it made me smile how caring he was behind the flirting and teasing.
I shook my head. "Not at all chingu." I poked his cheek. "Stop with the serious face," I gestured to the foreign expression, "it's not a good look on you."
He rolled his eyes, smirking. "Didn't think I was your type, Caly."
"No offense West, but I think it's pretty obvious at this point who my type is." I didn't know where this newfound confidence came from, but it was easy to talk to Wally.
"Tall, dark, handsome, has gills-" I shoved his shoulder playfully, making him laugh. "Okay, okay. He does know you like him, right?"
I paused, thinking about it. I thought it was very obvious at this point. "I tried to kiss him Wal. I'm pretty sure he knows."
"Did you tell him though?"
"I think if you try to kiss someone, it's implied you like them."
"Nonono." Wally wrapped his arm around my shoulders. "See, here's the thing: us guys are dumb." I opened my mouth to protest that Kaldur is one of the smartest people I know, but the ginger continued, "When it comes to feelings, you reeaallllyyy have to spell it out for us. Like write it in the sky, or paint it on a billboard in all red with capital letters."
I suddenly felt nervous at the thought, messing with the lint in my pocket. Tell Kaldur how I feel? Use words? English? I guess Wally could sense my anxiety and gently squeezed my shoulders.
"Wally... words aren't really my strong suite."
"Suite?"
"Did I not use that right?"
He chuckled. "Its strong suit but I know what you mean. Look, do whatever your gut says. But I really think you should tell Kal how you feel."
My eyebrows quirked. "Since when are you the love doctor?" I teased, stifling a laugh. I know for a fact Wally is incredibly smart but when it came to relationships? He seemed a little oblivious himself - he didn't see M'gann's obvious crush for Superboy.
"Always have been Caly." He winked, and I rolled my eyes. "Ladies can't resist the charm of the Wallman~"
I giggled. "If you say so." I turned towards the Zeta tube, typing in the destination. "Hey Wally?" I caught his arm before he left. "Thank you." I never expected the speedster to be a pleasant voice of reason, but I didn't mind it.
He smiled. "Hey, you can come to me for anything. We're teammates after all." He held out his pinky, and I wrapped mine around his. "Pinky promise."
DETROIT
AUGUST 27, 08:44 EDT
"Mari?" I called out, after closing the door behind me. I slipped off my shoes and listened for any movement or voices.
"Calypso?"
My mentor peered around the corner of the kitchen, a piece of bacon hanging from her mouth. First Wally now Mari? Does anyone know manners?
"Hey." I joined her in the kitchen, jumping up to sit on the counter. "What'cha making?"
"Breakfast," she said, as if it wasn't obvious. I playfully shoved her shoulder as we laughed. "Just some bacon. I'll be heading out soon." I perked up, smiling excitedly. It feels like it's been years since I've gone on a "mission" with Mari. She flicked my nose, already shaking her head. "Going out for groceries, kiddo. Besides Bats told me about your mission with Clayface, figured you'd be resting."
I cringed, thinking back to our failed battle earlier this morning. "Oh... uh, actually I wanted to talk to you."
"Talk hm?" she reached behind me, grabbing her keys and wallet. "Well, we can talk in the car, on our way to the store. Tired of grabbing takeout and ordering pizza."
"You hate takeout and pizza."
"You're right, but I hate cooking, too. Normally, it's you making everything." I frowned, looking down at my hands. I know she didn't mean it, but I felt bad. If only she could tell me what was going on so things could go back to normal. I didn't mind living in the Cave at all, but I missed home.
Mari placed her hands on my shoulders. "Caly, it's fine, don't worry about it. You living at the Cave is the best thing for you right now."
I sighed. "You're not going to tell me why, are you?" She didn't answer, so I decided to not repeat myself. No point in bugging her - she's as stubborn as a brick wall.
She grabbed a piece of paper from the fridge, stuffing it into her pocket. "Ready?"
"Sure."
"Y'know it would've been quicker to run there instead of drive."
"You really want to run across buildings with bags of groceries? Those plastic bags are cheap as hell."
"I mean... we could always use paper bags."
"Paper bags? Pfft, smart ass."
Mari locked the car, pulling out the paper from earlier, smoothing out the wrinkles. "Let's see..." she pulled a cart out from the corral, "need some ground beef, bell peppers, onions, mustard-"
I followed in step next to her, looking at her list. "What are you making?"
She bit her lip, her eyes darting to the side as she cleared her throat. She mumbled something, but I couldn't make out her response. I smirked, raising my eyebrow. "Mwo?"
She clicked her tongue, not meeting my eyes, as we entered the store. "I'm making dinner for Luke." she mumbled.
I gasped, pressing my hands to my cheeks excitedly. "Like a date?!" I exclaimed, causing a few people to look at me strangely. Wouldn't be the first time.
"Maybe." she booped my nose with a bell pepper, before placing it into a plastic bag. "It's none of your business."
I couldn't stop myself from grinning. I knew one day Luke and Mari would get together, but now that it was finally happening? It made me so happy. They deserve each other.
Throughout the store, I was practically bouncing in happiness. Mari looked annoyed with me, but I knew she was excited. Ever since I started training with her and Luke, I always thought they were married or dating at least. She explained that she never had time for herself, let alone a relationship, but I always countered with asking why she adopted me. I was quickly told to shush and focus on training.
"How did you two met again?" I asked after we checked out and put the groceries in the car. I already knew this story of course, but I loved hearing her side of it.
She tried fighting her smile, but that memory was something she held dear to her heart. "Well, after I stole back my totem, I continued my fashion career in New York. I traveled across the states and wound up here in Detroit. Back in the day, this wasn't the prettiest place, but I enjoyed myself.
"One day, I found this boxing gym hosting a little tournament. Everywhere I went, I saw posters for this thing - people wouldn't shut up about it! So, I went. It was packed, so many people gambling on who's gonna win.
"I watched all the fights but the one that got me was the last match. There was this guy, tall, big shoulders, even bigger head, but his smile... it-it made my heart stop. It was like he was the only person in the room. He won the match, of course and I found out he's the gym owner.
"Next morning, I went to his gym bright and early and asked for some lessons. He recognized me from the night before, and it caught me off guard. He actually knew who I was. 'Mari McCabe, my sister loves your stuff' he said and when he laughed... let's just say I kept going to the gym every day until I left back for New York.
"That was so long ago, maybe fourteen years? Anyway, no matter where I went or what I did, I always thought about him. He was always there for me, day and night. When I told him who I really was, he didn't run. He... he stayed. I know I'm not the greatest person and I've done some bad shit but Luke's made it worthwhile."
I beamed. Nothing but adoration for him in her eyes. "That's beautiful."
She rolled her eyes, but her smile stayed. "Why do you love that story so much?"
"I dunno." I shrugged. "I guess just knowing how much you two have been through, you still wound up finding each other."
Mari took a deep breath, clenching the steering wheel before relaxing. Whatever she was about to say was either going to be serious or difficult for her to admit. "I think... we're ready for a relationship." I was shocked she told me so easily. Normally, she kept that part of her life private. "We've tried in the past and it never worked but I think it's time."
"That's why you're cooking him dinner?"
She nodded. "I know we always cook for him but this time it's me cooking."
I giggled. "You sure you won't burn down the apartment like last time?"
"I didn't burn down the whole apartment!" she protested, and I burst into laughter. "Just... our kitchen."
"Which is why I do the cooking."
She reached over to ruffle my hair, and I frowned, hands flying up to fix my hair. "I missed you, kiddo." she said softly.
I smiled. "Me too."
By the time we got back to the apartment, it was only ten. She wasn't going to start dinner for another eight or so hours. We put away the groceries and took out the a few pots and pans and our trusty cast-iron skillet that was older than me.
"So," I read off the list Mari wrote, "you're making baked beans, macaroni and cheese, and... baked chicken? Eeewww! Aniyo, fried chicken is better."
She smacked my arm with an empty plastic bag. "Baked chicken is healthier for you."
I crossed my arms, shaking my head in disgust. "Nu uh."
"Sure you're sixteen Caly?"
I helped her clean up the apartment, even though Luke has seen it in worse conditions. But this day was special.
Mari held the dustpan as I swept. "What did you want to talk about?"
My eyes widened, almost dropped the broom. "O-oh, um..." I flushed. "It's Kaldur."
She immediately stood, reaching for her totem. "Where is this kid? I'll beat-"
"No, no, no!" I grabbed her arm. "He didn't do anything wrong, I promise." She relaxed, but I could tell she was still in 'Mari bear' mode. I chewed on my bottom lip, feeling butterflies in my stomach. "I-I like him. And we almost kissed, but he pulled away."
I couldn't read her expression. She didn't look upset or angry. I don't know why I was afraid of her reaction... I've never liked liked someone before. "Does he like you?"
"I don't know."
"Did you tell him you like him?" she's starting to sound like Wally.
"Aniyo." I shoke my head, focusing on a spot of dirt on the floor.
"You need to tell him, Caly." she said. "If he doesn't like you, that's okay because you're amazing, sweet, kind and a helluva cook. Anyone would be lucky to have you. And if he does like you, then you'll be beating yourself up for not telling him sooner."
I began playing with my fingers, nervously picking at my nails. "B-b-but what if-"
She grabbed my shoulders, forcing me to look at her. "Calypso. Don't be afraid. You've dealt with abusive parents, learned English quicker than I thought was possible, trained and fought hard to be an incredible partner - this is nothing." She cupped my cheeks, gently stroking my cheeks. "You can do this."
I didn't realize how much I needed to hear those words until she said them. Remembering everything I've gone through... and I was afriad of telling Kaldur how I feel.
"And if you don't think the time is right after you tell him then that's okay." Mari continued. "Do whatever makes you comfortable."
I relaxed, letting go a breath I didn't know I was holding. "Thank you."
She pulled me into her arms, hugging me tightly. I was surprised at her sudden affection but wrapped my arms around her. She mumbled something about me growing up so fast and squeezed me tighter. Sometimes I wonder if Mari ever planned to be a mother, but these moments made me feel like I was her daughter from the start.
We finished cleaning the rest of the apartment in a few hours, singing our hearts out to her favorite Destiny Child songs. It's only two in the afternoon when we're done, so we decide to set up our small dining room to make it look more romantic. After, Mari takes a long time to find the right outfit to wear and an even longer time to do her hair and makeup. I decided to start cooking, following the recipe she scribbled down.
Luke arrives ten minutes before six, right when I'm putting everything in the oven to keep warm. Mari helped with some things but I cooked a majority of the food.
"Caly!" he greets warmly, pulling me into a bear hug after setting down a bouquet. Mari was never a roses person so I was happy to see it full of lilies, orchids, and tulips. "How're doin' girlie?"
"Good, how about you?"
"Honestly? Nervous. Is this too much?" he gestured to the flowers and his clothes. He wasn't wearing a suit but a long sleeve navy dress shirt and black slacks.
I smiled. I can't believe this was finally happening. "No, not at all. You look great!" I chirped, adjusting his tie.
"Thanks-" he froze, his eyes widened, staring behind me. "M-Mari-"
I quickly turned around and my jaw hit the floor. I've seen her doll up before, but... nothing like this. She wasn't overly dressed but she wasn't casual either. The wig she wore - you couldn't tell, no matter how close you got - was curled beautifully. Her makeup was light, some eyeshadow and lipstick, but she looked more than gorgeous.
If Mari was nervous, she didn't show it. "Hope you're hungry, Luke." she said smoothly as he handed her the flowers.
He cleared his throat, his eyes scanning her once, twice more. "Starving." My eyes widened - the tension in the apartment was thick, which is my que to leave.
I brought out the pans of food, setting them on the table. "Dinner is ready. Everything should still be pretty hot, so be careful. Masikke deuseyo~"
Both of them smiled, eagerly grabbing their plates. "Thanks girlie, it smells damn good!"
"You're not staying?" Mari asked.
"Nah, this is your date. Don't need me uh... third... third turning?"
Luke raised his eyebrow. "Turning? Ooohhh, it's third wheeling, Caly."
I nodded. "You're right, I couldn't remember." I slipped on my shoes quickly and looked over my shoulder, grinning at how happy they looked. "I'll be at the Cave if you need me."
"Love you." Mari said and mouthed thank you after. To me, everything from cleaning to cooking was no big deal, but I could tell this night is special not only for her but for Luke too.
"Love you too."
MOUNT JUSTICE
SEPTEMBER 3, 20:59 EDT
"Careful Superboy, they're hot!"
"Not as hot as you babe."
"Uh, thanks Wally, that's um... sweet."
"Not as sweet as you sugar."
Smack! "Oh, grow up."
"Calypso?" M'gann's voice brought me out of my trance and I looked up to her holding a pan of delicious looking chocolate chip cookies. "Want one?"
I nodded and grabbed one. "Kamsa."
'Is everything okay?' the Martian questioned as Batman announced we needed to report to the mission room.
'I think I'm going to confess to Kaldur when he gets back.' I saw her eyes light up like a Christmas tree and I quickly sent her a look. 'Please keep this between us!'
Superboy noticed, though. "Are you alright M'gann?"
She grinned, clasping her hands together excitedly. "Yes, I'm okay." We followed the rest of our team out of the kitchen. 'I'm so happy! I just know he's going to feel the same way.'
'Really?' For the past few days, I've been trying to hype myself up about finally telling Kaldur how I feel. I even called my best friend to get her opinion, and she was the only one who shared the same fear I did.
"So, what if when you tell him you like him, he doesn't like you and you ruin the friendship? Y'know, it makes things awkward." Zoe explained. "And you two basically work together? Hella awkward."
But I thought back to what Mari and Wally said - I had to tell him, get this feeling off my chest. If he didn't feel the same, oh well, I'll get over it. But if he does? My heartbeat speed up and my face felt warm when I thought about it.
M'gann wrapped her arm around my shoulders, giving me a comforting squeeze. 'Of course, he'd be an idiot not to like you back.' I wondered if she read his mind, and she's telling the truth, but I knew she didn't do that anymore.
As we approached Batman, the computer announced, "Recognized, Aqualad, B-02."
My heart caught in my throat as I watched the Atlantean step through the tube. When I met his eyes, he smiled, looking more happier and clear minded.
"Made your decision?" the Dark Knight questioned, not looking up from the screen he was typing away on.
Kaldur's eyes never left mine as he spoke. "The decision is made. I am here, one hundred percent." I couldn't help but smile as well.
"Just in time for your next mission." Kaldur nodded, taking the spot next to me. "The Watchtower detected an immense power surge in the Bialyan desert."
"Calypso," Kaldur leaned down to whisper in my ear and I felt butterflies erupt in my stomach, "after this mission, I need to talk with you."
Talk? With me?
I almost forgot how to speak, wondering what he wanted to speak about. "Y-yeah, me too."
