January 17, 2020. Week Nine.
Zari walked down the hall of the Waverider towards the lab for group training. It was late in the afternoon, and she was headed to team training as it specified on Ray's stupid schedule.
Ray was the one who insisted on a schedule, Sara didn't care but, thought it would be good for them. Their captain was usually worried about everybody's needs not whether they shower during their allotted time. Zari hated the bathroom schedule most of all because fifteen minutes was not enough time to have a nice long shower, use the toilet and brush her teeth and let alone do her hair.
Ray set times for events, breakfast, lunch, dinner, training, chores, and so on. He would put them on a nine to five work schedule if he could because so long as Ray was on this ship he would enforce his stupid chore chart and group itinerary.
"Hey, love, wait up," Charlie said, sprinted towards her in fishnets and a plaid skirt.
Zari paused to wait for her to catch up, then continued walking in step with her. Once they were side by side, Charlie hooked her arm around Zari's.
"Are you working out in that?" Zari asked, looking down at Charlie's latest punk rock outfit. Compared to Zari's long black and gray hooded jacket and loose workout pants.
"Of course not," Charlie said, shape shifting it into a pair of black leggings with red ribbed sides, but keeping her band tee shirt.
Zari shook her head as they opened the door to the lab.
"What? Are you just jealous or turned on?" Charlie teased her, elbowing her side.
"No," Zari said exasperated. "Why can't you just change like a normal person?"
"Where's the fun in that?"
"You two talking magic?" Constantine asked, from where he was lounging against the doorway to the lab.
Zari was surprised that he had traded out his usual tie and trench coat for a gray t-shirt and flamboyant blue pants with a bright yellow stripe down the side.
"Zari here wants to get me undressed."
"No, I just think it's weird that you change in the middle of the halls."
"Oh, do you even have to put on clothes or can you change into whatever you think of?" John asked, pushing off from the wall and walking over to them.
"Usually I just pick something that I've seen before," Charlie said. "I've never really tried putting on something from my imagination."
Charlie seemed to concentrate as she closed her eyes. Zari caught the change in her appearance as the top she was wearing started to change. Her shirt pulled away from the loose style she had on into tighter workout shirt. However, before she could finish her transformation, Mick came storming into the hall and squeezed past them into the lab, interrupting her.
"Let's get this over with," he gruffed. Never one for their group activities.
Ray was already there with Nora, having moved the lab equipment aside and put the more delicate items away, replacing them with mats and boxing bags. He was currently on the floor doing a series of pushups while Nora lounged on his back.
Nora was in sensible work out clothes a black shirt and matching leggings. While Ray had decided to don a more personal look, one Zari thought was influenced by his childhood. He wore a pair of loose short shorts, a gray cut off tank top, and blue sweatbands around his wrist and forehead.
"Hey, you guys ready for a warm up?" Nora asked.
The three of them filtered into the lab as Nora got off Ray's back and he jumped up with his usual enthusiasm.
"Is everybody here?" Ray asked, looking around.
"Where's Sara?" Mick asked.
"Not here," Charlie said, crossing her arms. "How come she gets to skip out on these things?" She was referring to the many times over the past few weeks that Sara had failed to show up for team training or had left early. Giving them all some vague excuse.
"She doesn't skip training," Ray insisted. "I'm sure she just got caught up in something and forgot about the time."
"You all know how Sara loves to work out, but she hasn't been feeling well, so she probably just decided to skip this one," Nora said, covering for her.
"She's been skipping out on a lot more than training sessions," Constantine said.
"Yeah," Charlie added. "When was the last time either you saw her in the galley. Ray's the one who's always going on and on about how eating dinner together builds team relationships."
"Are we really gonna sit around here and talk about Sara?" Nora asked, knowing that if they continued they would jump to some wrong conclusion. They were smart in the field, but dumb as a pile of bricks when it came to what was going on around them.
"No we are not," Ray said, turning around and picking up one of the weighted balls. "We are going to play hot potato."
His enthusiastic announcement was met with groans and whines. Regardless he passed the ball to Zari who quickly threw it to Charlie, starting the round.
Ava looked up from the mission report as a loud snore broke the usual quiet in her office. Sara was sprawled across the couch next to her door. With her arms hanging up above her head over the armrest and one leg hanging off the side, Sara was passed out. A few minutes earlier, she had portaled into Ava's office, reaching for the nearest trash can. Unfortunately, she was unable to make it had vomited on the carpet.
Ava rushed to her side, Sara had sat down on the couch and started crying. She explained that she had tried to portal into the bathroom after becoming nauseous in the hallway of the Waverider.
"I'm so sorry," she had said, sniffling.
"No, babe it's okay," Ava had said, rubbing Sara's arms. "Why don't you lie down and I'll clean it up."
Sara had just nodded and curled up on the couch as Ava put a blanket over her and quickly cleaned up the mess.
Ava continued to watch her as Sara kicked the blanket and her snoring went back to its usual low sound. Ava shook her head, smiling to herself, and looked back at her reports. A few moments later she heard a commotion outside her door.
"Gary, wait," Rip yelled, just before her door burst open and Gary waltzed in followed closely by Rip.
"Oh, Director Sharpe," Gary sang ignoring the fact that her blinds were closed, the subtle sign they had all agreed on, for when she didn't want to be disturbed.
"Shh Gary!" She hissed, standing up and looking over at Sara who hadn't stirred.
"Sorry," he whispered, following her line of sight.
Rip gave her an apologetic smile and put his hand on Gary's shoulder.
"I just got so excited because the review for the magical creature containment department has come in and we scored an A-," Gary whispered. "I mean not an actual A- it's a 4.6 rating, but I always preferred letter grades and I know you do too."
"Oh, thank god," Ava said, breathing a sigh of relief.
The review had taken place a few months earlier, and the DOD had gone over the entire department with a fine tooth comb. Reviewing every magical creature, every dollar spent, and every employee. Scrutinizing them to an insane degree. Making both Mona and Gary cry on several occasions, which was the worst thing they could possibly do in Ava's mind.
"That's great you guys, why don't we go and give everyone the good news. I'm sure Mona will be delighted to hear this" Ava said.
She put away her papers and grabbed her jacket, then looked back at Sara sleeping peacefully and locked her door. When she was leaving Mona's office, after a hug and some celebratory cupcakes, she received a text from Sara saying that she had left for the Waverider. Upon returning to her office, Ava found her blanket tangled up on the floor. It had probably gotten caught up in Sara's feet when she got up. Ava picked it up and folded it, putting it away for later, knowing Sara would be back for another nap.
January 20, 2020. Week Nine.
Sara sniffed, there was a terrible smell coming from down the hall. She sniffed again and let her nose lead the way into the kitchen. Throwing open the fridge door, she started pulling things out and setting them on the counter. The pungent smell had been wreaking havoc on her nose and turning her stomach. She found the old meatloaf that had started to mold and immediately disposed of it while trying not to gag. While she was there, she threw out a few more things that had started to stink. Wiping down the shelves as well.
Zari sighed and leaned against the doorway to the galley as Ray stood next to her smiling. They had followed Sara around the deck for the better part of the day as she sniffed out every stinky sock, forcing them to clean the ship from the bottom to the top.
"This is the worst," Zari said, recalling how she had been forced to cancel her morning video game tournament.
"I think it's nice that someone else around here is finally realizing that this place could use a good cleaning," Ray said.
"You just say that because you're the only one she didn't ask to clean their room."
"That's not true, it's just nice to have someone else bugging you guys to clean this place."
"You can say it," Zari said, rolling her eyes.
"A clean and orderly room is a happy room," Ray smiled.
"And a happy room equals a happy you," Zari finished. "Yeah, yeah, I've heard it before."
Ray scoffed and they continued to watch as Sara went through the shelves, having already offered her help and been pushed out of the way.
"What's going on?" Mick asked. He had seen Zari and Ray standing in the galley and stopped to see the commotion. Thus far, he had escaped Sara's cleaning whirlwind.
"Sara's throwing away all the bad leftovers," Zari said.
"She didn't get my meatloaf, did she?" He asked, stomping into the kitchen.
Sara wordlessly let him pass to see the fridge, as she went through the condiments in the door. He looked to where he had last stored it in the corner and was surprised to see that it was gone. Mick looked over to the counter to see all the containers she had lying out but, spotted his empty tupperware in the sink.
"You threw out my meatloaf!" he yelled, picking up the empty container, letting the soap and water spill out.
"I'm sorry, Mick, but it was way too old, the whole fridge smells like moldy meat," Sara said, getting up from where she had been kneeling on the floor.
"Yeah, well this whole place smells like burnt lavender," he said, referring to the cleaner she had been using. "Why are you doing this? First, you spend all your time over at Ava's. Then, when you come back you turn this place upside down and throw out my leftovers."
"I'm sorry, Mick, but this place stinks and we need to clean it."
"Is this 'cause you're sick?" he asked, growing calm.
Sara looked over his shoulder at Ray and Zari, who quickly skedaddled and Gideon shut the door behind them. Sara sighed, Nora had told her they were getting suspicious. Throwing around ideas about what was going on. Mostly just about her slacking off, so she hadn't thought much of it.
Sara wanted to tell them what was going on, but she also wanted to keep it a secret. Sara didn't want them to look at her differently or think that she was unable to do her job as their Captain. She knew how they'd worry but, she didn't realize that they were already worrying.
"I'm not stupid," he said.
"I know you're not," she quickly replied getting up.
"But I know you've been puking and sleeping. You're not interested in exercising or eating with us anymore and you're always over at Ava's, so what gives?"
Sara quickly weighed the pros and cons in her head. There was a part of her that wanted to keep it a secret. They had been planning on telling everyone in a few weeks time with a nice sit down dinner and a long explanation.
On the other hand, she wanted to tell him. Although everybody assumed that Mick had trouble keeping a secret, he was a thief and he knew how to keep things on the down low. She was sure that if she did tell him he wouldn't tell a soul. Sara trusted Mick and she knew that he'd have her back.
"I'm pregnant," she said. "It's Ava's."
He stared at her and blinked, looking down at her stomach then back up to her face.
"You don't look preggers."
Sara scrunched up her nose, not fond of the word. "I'm not that far along. Only about two and a half months."
"Huh," he said, thinking it over, as he leaned against the kitchen island.
Sara hopped up on the kitchen counter and let Mick slowly process everything.
"Are you gonna retire or something?" he asked.
"No," she said. "But, I will be taking a few months off."
"I guess I'm supposed to say congratulations or something."
"Thanks, I think," she said, smiling as he smirked at her.
"I got your back, Blondie, and I'll tell the others not to worry," he said pushing off from the counter and coming over to pat her knee.
Sara smiled. "Thanks, I've already got Ava worrying about me."
"But I'm not cleaning my room."
"You can't get out of this," she yelled as he was walking away. Sara smiled as she watched him go, knowing that he was on her side no matter what.
January 23, 2020. Week Ten.
Ava drove home, on time for once, through the gray streets. The weather hasn't decided if it wanted to rain or snow, so a mix of both fell from the dark clouds, making the day seem shorter. She decided to do something nice for Sara and stopped by the grocery store.
She would usually get wine and something sweet, but things were different now. Sara usually crawled home from the Waverider to her couch. She wasn't in the mood for date nights, much less having sex. Ava had resolved to let Sara set the mood, in the meantime, she supported her by picking up crackers and oatmeal. However, Ava decided to get at least one special thing and went down another aisle, picking up some sparkling cider and heading to the checkout.
The house was quiet when she got home, lazy and warm she could feel it as she kicked off her boots in the entryway. Ava carried the groceries into the open area to see that Sara was already home. Curled up on her couch and playing on her phone, she looked up as Ava entered the room.
"Hello," she said, giving her a warm smile.
She was wrapped up in a blanket and had started a fire, the flames crackling. The overhead lights were off as Sara had turned on the lamps and kitchen lights, while a few unlit candles were placed on the tables around the room. Something told her that Sara had started to plan a more intimate night.
"Hey you," Ava said, staring at her with suspicion.
She walked away briefly to put the groceries down on the table. Then looked around the kitchen as a sweet smell of rosemary, thyme, and warm bread filled the room. Ava looked over to the bread maker on the counter and peaked in the top, to see the golden yellow loaf. Ava followed her nose to the crockpot to see soup warming in the pot. Closing her eyes, she breathed in the scent, nothing made her happier than the smell of good food.
Ava grabbed the crackers and cider, then walked back over to Sara. She sat down on the coffee table and placed them next to her. Sara put down her phone as Ava leaned down for a kiss, Sara's hand cupped Ava's face forcing her to linger there.
"Everything smells delicious," Ava said, finally pulling back, but leaning forward and resting her elbows on her knees.
"Thanks," Sara said. "I got the Gnocchi soup going in the crockpot this morning. I was gonna make bread, but I was too tired so I kinda just threw everything in the bread maker and pressed start."
Ava smiled at her, leaning closer to press their foreheads together and pressed a kiss to Sara's cheek.
"Was there anything special you wanted to do tonight?" Ava was referring to the romantic touches Sara had made around the room. However, the sight of Sara sleepy eyed and snuggled in Ava's pajamas on the coach told her the night would take a more relaxing turn. Something she was happy to partake in after a dreary day.
"Well…" Sara said giving Ava a cheeky smile and shifting her eyes away.
"You want to watch Swamp thaaaaaang again," Ava guessed.
"Yes."
"Alright," Ava said, getting up. "But, let's eat first."
She pulled out a tray and two bowls, as she heard Sara queue up the movie. The bread was done and she pulled it out and cut them each a hefty slice. When she brought the tray over and placed it on the coffee table, Sara sat up as Ava passed her a bowl. Sara scooted over and Ava cuddled up next to her as they started the movie.
As they finished their meal, Sara laid down on her back and Ava moved to lay behind her, propping up her head with her elbow. As far as the movie went it wasn't that bad, at least the evil counselor who looked like her from the fourth and fifth versions wasn't in this sequel.
Ava found her mind drifting off as the movie continued past the first act. She thought about what Miranda had said, about the genetic testing. There was a possibility that there was nothing in her genes that would cause genetic disability, but her DNA was based on that of other women. Real women, who could possibly have carried any number of unknown genetic dispositions. The chances of one matching up with those in Sara's history or passing on something of her own were too great to ignore. They wouldn't have the babies first genetic test until Sara's next appointment, several weeks away. If she wanted to know now, she would have to take the test herself.
She couldn't live with herself in the unknown. It scared her too much and kept her up at night. Although she lived with it to some extent in her work and life, this was different. She had the chance to find out the truth and ignoring it felt like it had already done some harm to their child.
"Ava? Earth to Director Sharpe?" Sara waved a cracker in front of her face and finally caught her attention.
"Huh, what?" she asked.
"I asked if you could turn down the volume?" Sara asked bringing her back to the moment.
"Oh yeah," Ava said grabbing the remote and turning it down.
"What's got you so distracted?" Sara asked. "I know you don't like these movies but… Is everything okay at work?"
"Yeah everything's fine," Ava said. "I was just thinking about what Miranda said, about the genetic testing."
"Yeah," Sara said, moving her hand back to rub Ava's neck, her fingers threading through the hair at the back of Ava's neck.
"I think it would be good. I don't want to go into this blind. I think we should know everything that could possibly happen. If there was any possibility of anything I want to be prepared," Ava said, sure of her decision.
She looked down and placed her hand on Sara stomach. As much research as she could do and as much as she could learn. She wasn't the one growing their baby inside of her. It scared her not knowing what could happen if something went wrong.
The genetic test was something she could do. It would help them see any possibilities that could occur. She always liked to have everything laid out before making a decision. Now the decision was already made for her and she would have to live with the consequences regardless. At least, with the test, she would know what they could be facing.
Sara placed her hand over Ava's and pulled her in for a kiss. "I know that whatever the results say, whatever happens with our baby, we're going to take care of them and love them no matter what."
"I know," Ava said. "I'm going to call Miranda in the morning and see if we can set it up as soon as possible."
"Sounds good," Sara said, smiling up at her. It wasn't long before Ava stretched and yawned sinking further into the couch.
Ava looked down at her, as Sara turned back to the movie. Her eyes were bright and her skin glowed under the lights. She was healthy and happy and whole and their child was safe inside of her.
Sara caught her staring and raised her eyebrows. She reached up and cupped Ava's face running her thumb along Ava's cheekbone. Ava detected the cheeky twinkle in her eyes as Sara leaned forward and pressed a kiss to her lips.
Sara brought her hand back up to cup Ava's face before pushing her hair back and moving her lips down her jaw. Ava stopped breathing as their mood changed. She brought her hands to Sara's hips, sipping her hands under her shirt and playing with the waistband of her sweat pants.
"What do you want Baby?" Ava whispered in her ear.
"You." Sara's word came out as a breath filled moan.
She moved her knee over Sara's waist as Sara crashed their lips together. The credits rolled as new snow started to fall, leaving heavy flakes to dance across their windows.
After their coitus on the couch, they had crawled upstairs and Sara was asleep before Ava finished brushing her teeth. Ava found herself tossing and turning and after an hour she sat up and pulled out the book Mona had given her and Sara last week. Sara moaned from beside her and Ava looked over her reading glasses.
Sara blinked and squinted in the lamplight. "Hey."
"Hey," Ava said, leaned over to kiss Sara's forehead. "I'm sorry I woke you up."
"That's okay, I was dreaming of the sabertooth tiger and Gertrude meeting at a cafe and it was getting to be a little too weird."
"Who's Gertrude?"
"Amaya's t-rex," Sara said. with a yawn. "Why are you up, and getting lost in...The Passion of Paperwork?"
"I couldn't sleep," Ava said, holding up her arm as Sara cuddled into her side.
Sara shrugged and hummed, she closed her eyes and settled on Ava's chest. Ava smiled at her soft features and moved the book away from Sara, holding it up in one hand. Things lapse into silence save for the sound of rustling paper and Sara's light snores, as Ava read.
"Ava?" Sara whispered, half asleep.
"Yeah?" She replied, putting her bookmark in, expecting Sara to ask her to go to sleep.
"I think I'm gonna throw up."
She was not expecting that. Ava jumped up and ran to the bathroom where the puke bowl was only to hear the sound of vomit, telling her she was too late. She rushed back to find Sara inching back away from the mess in front of her and getting closer to the edge. Ava put the bowl in Sara's lap and picked her up with one arm under her back and the other under her knees, doing her best not to jostle her.
"It's okay, sweetie," Ava said, carrying her to the bathroom and setting her down on the gray rug.
Sara leaned over the bowl and threw up again, as Ava gathered her hair into a bun. She rubbed Sara's back as she hung her head over the bowl. Then reached for the cup of water on the counter.
"Do you want some water?" Ava asked
"I want to go back to sleep," Sara replied, frustrated and angry.
"Where's your sea band?" Ava asked. Sara held up her wrist displaying the band before leaning over the bowl again.
Ava adjusted its position and rubbed her back again only to have Sara shrug her off. She leaned back against the bathroom wall and waited, her heart aching for Sara. Ava wished there was some magic cure that she could give to her.
Ava went back into the room to grabbed Sara's favorite throw blanket from the chair. Along with some ginger and peppermint morning sickness candy. Ava sat back down behind Sara and waited. Once Sara had emptied her stomach and was coughing up bile, she collapsed back into Ava who wrapped the blanket around her. She flushed the toilet and grabbed the cup she had filled.
"Here have some water?"
Sara nodded as Ava brought the cup to her lips. Sara rinsed her mouth and set the cup on the floor.
"Do you want your ginger or peppermint candy?"
"Peppermint."
Ava handed her the candy and Sara ripped off the packaging.
"Did you grabbed my pillow?" Sara asked, looking around the room.
"No," Ava said, placing a hand on her back. "Did you want to sleep in here."
"No, can we go back to bed?"
"Yeah just let me get some new sheets, okay."
Sara nodded and shuffled off her lap to sit against the tub.
Ava gave her a once over and tucked the blanket more securely around Sara. She placed a kiss on her forehead and walked back into the bedroom. The down comforter had taken most of the vomit and it didn't look like she had to change the sheets after all. Her book, however, was not so lucky. Ava had abandoned it when she rushed into the bathroom and it had ended up in the splash zone, and Ava didn't bother to try and save it. She could order Mona a new one later.
She gathered up everything, before going to the cabinet up to pull out the spare one and spreading it over the bed. She peeked into the bathroom and Sara gave her a slight smile, but was still in the same position that Ava had left her. "Hey, I got the bed ready for you."
Sara nodded and Ava helped her up and guiding her into bed and tucking her in.
"Is there anything else you need?" Ava asked. "I'm going to go throw the comforter into the wash."
"No," Sara said, looking up at her with big blue eyes and the little pout.
"I'll be back soon, and we can both go to bed okay," Ava said.
Sara nodded, still pouting as Ava placed a kiss to her forehead. Then walked downstairs and outside to throw the book in the garbage. She washed off the vomit and stuffed the comforter into the machine with detergent, trusting that the machine to work its magic.
Ava opened the door to their room to reveal Sara mid yawn, stretching her arms out to the side and arching her back like a cat. Ava smiled at the sight and crawled into bed beside her. Sara closed her mouth and blinked up at her, before snuggling into her side with another small yawn as she nuzzled Ava's collarbone.
"Did you finish the book?" Sara asked.
"I'm all yours," Ava said.
"Good," Sara said. She relaxed against Ava as she wrapped her arms around Sara. They settled into sleep despite the lamp on the bedside table remaining on.
January 26th, 2020. Week Ten.
Charlie walked down the hall of the Waverider with fresh snacks piled in her arms. She pulled out a gummy worm from the bag that was snuggled in the crook of her arm and took a bite. She had narrowly escaped Sara's cleaning frenzy last week by locking the door to her room and bribing Zari to change the override code. This left her sneaking around to avoid any trouble, she'd get around to cleaning her room later. It's not like Sara went anywhere near there.
As she turned down the hall to Zari's room, she watched Mick stroll out of the bathroom. He gave her a nod as he walked past, stealing one of the beers from the carton in her hand. She would have stopped him, had she not been overwhelmed by the smell. For the first time since she met him, Mick smelled fresh. Like pine and oak wood which was definitely Ray's signature scent. She turned her head to watch him walk down the hall and back into his room, the scent lingering in the hall.
She quickly ran into Zari's room and dumped all of the candy on to Z's coffee table. "You'll never guess what I just saw in the hall."
"You finally noticed that I added googly eyes to Lil' Gideon?"
"No, wait you did that? I thought those were always part of it, never mind," Charlie said, shaking her head. "I just saw Mick coming out of the bathroom smelling fantastic, if I do say so myself."
Zari snorted not bothering to look up from her game.
"Don't believe me? Why don't you go see for yourself," Charlie said, crossing her arms.
Zari finally looked and paused her game. "Fine, but only because I was just about to go over there and give him back the latest chapters of his novel."
She put down her controller and picked up the stack of papers on her nightstand. Then walked out of the room.
Charlie grabbed the controller and exited the game, pulling out her guitar controller to play Guitar Hero. One of the few games Charlie actually excelled at, managing to go toe-to-toe with Zari as they competed for the top score.
"Put it back!" Zari said, from down the hall.
Charlie pouted, but switched back to Zari's game and continued where she had left off.
Zari walked down the hall, not entirely sure what she should expect upon walking into Rory's room. For the entire three years that she had known him, he had rarely if ever cleaned his room. The place was a breeding ground for bacteria, in a dump of dishes, sweat. Although, he did do laundry. She couldn't fault him for the occasional mess as her room often fell into disarray, but she was always sure to clean it up before it became a swamp bog. Ray running around the ship with a duster and mop, encouraging them to do them same helped.
Gideon let her in and she wasn't surprised to find his room in its usual disarray. With clothes scattered all over the floor, pens, white out, and typewriter ink strewn on his desk. However, the shelves had been dusted, his bed had fresh sheets, and the room and an air of cleanliness. Rory was sitting in his chair cleaning his Heat Gun and he smelled sweet, just as Charlie had described it.
"I finished the last two chapters you gave me," she said, walking in and placing them neatly on his desk.
She couldn't quite believe her own nose as the scent of Ray's soap and their usual citrus cleaner filled the air. The bottle and rag sitting on the shelf next to him.
"Thanks," he said, not looking up.
"I see you've been cleaning up around here," she said, rolling onto her toes to get a better look over his shelves.
"Yeah well, Haircut threatened to turn off the alcohol settings if I didn't tidy up a bit," he said blaming Ray for what was clearly Sara's influence.
"Oh really?" Zari sang, teasing him ever so slightly.
"Yes," he said, with a gruff, looking her square in the eye.
"Okay," Zari said, leaving it at that. She knew just how far she could push him and if he was going to be cleaning up regularly she didn't want to discourage him.
She walked out of the room and back down the hall to find Charlie playing her game and snatched the controller from her hand. Zari then fished out the second controller from the bin under her TV stand and handed it to Charlie.
"Told ya," Charlie said, with a grin on her face.
"Yeah, so Sara finally doubled down on Ray's threats. His room will probably go back to smelling like a pig sty in no time."
Charlie nodded and they finished up the current level. Things fell into a familiar silence around them until Zari caught Charlie looking over at her. She raised her eyebrow at her as she started up the game.
"Do you think Sara's going to move in with Ava soon?"
"Probably," Zari said, not looking up from the screen. "I think Ava finally got her act together and proposed."
"I think Ray and Nora are going to move out too," Charlie said. "I saw them looking at a couple of houses online around Star City and DC."
"Why anyone would settle down in Star City is beyond me," Zari said.
"Do you ever think about having your own place?" Charlie asked, pulling up her feet and resting her chin on her legs as they played. "Renting an apartment and settling down somewhere?"
"You want to settle down?" Zari asked, perplexed as to why she would ever choose domesticity.
"Not really, but I just think about how I used to live, hopping from place to place."
"I thought that's what we were doing?" Zari asked. "Wait are you saying you want to leave the Waverider?"
"No, I mean, not permanently," Charlie explained. "But it might be fun to go and travel a little bit more see the world in a new age."
Zari thought about it for a moment. She doesn't think they'll quit the Legends, but she does wonder what would change if the others went to live in the present. With Nate and Behrad living in DC permanently and taking care of the magical creature sanctuary, Sara probably moving in with Ava, and Ray and Nora finding a place of their own it would be just Charlie, Rory, and her. It was only a matter of time before they all settled down.
Rory, Charlie, and herself, alone on the Waverider. She knew for a fact that Rory had been saving up for a place for Lisa and himself back in Central City. His publishers wanted him to be more available and with Lisa getting married, she knew he'd wanted to keep an eye on them. Although she never thought that he would permanently set down his heat gun, she wondered if he considered a partial retirement, to focus more on his writing.
That left Charlie and her. She didn't like to dwell on the fact that Charlie wouldn't age like she would and eventually would continue living on without her, if she chooses to do so. She thought about what Charlie had said, about traveling the world. It wasn't like they were not already doing that. But visiting a place and fighting local myths and legends was different from living there and observing the culture. Traveling like that had always sounded like something from a dream or a movie. If Charlie and her left, it would mean leaving the Legends and she didn't want that. Zari couldn't imagine her life without this ragtag crew. However, a little vacation didn't sound so bad.
"It's stupid," Charlie said, looking away from her.
"Tell you what," Zari said, pausing the game. "Once Ray and Nora start popping out babies, Sara and Ava get caught up at the bureau, Behrad and Nate get married, and Rory ends up stuck with his publishers in Central City. You and I can travel for a bit, wherever you want to go."
"Sounds like a deal and one you'll definitely be paying up within the next few years."
Zari rolled her eyes and they went back to their game, for now, there was this and Zari was content.
A few minutes later Ray's voice came across their intercoms. "It's time for family game night everybody meet up in the Parlor. I've got beer and pizza and if you aren't here in 10 minutes, we'll all be stuck playing Monopoly."
"Come on," Zari said, hauling herself up out of bed and offering her arm to Charlie. She pulled out her laptop so they could play a Quiplash game and threaded her fingers with Charlie's.
January 29th, 2020. Week Ten.
Ava portaled onto the Waverider where she had agreed to meet Miranda at noon. They had chosen the Waverider as it was much more technologically advanced than the 21st century obstetrics clinic Miranda worked at. Ava had gotten used to coming to the med-bay whenever she was injured in the field. For the genetic test, the Med-bay's advanced systems were their best options for untangling her future DNA.
Sara had asked Miranda if she could give birth on the Waverider and she had agreed. Ava wanted Sara to have the best care possible but, she didn't want to take advantage of Miranda and her practice. So they had scheduled Sara's next appointment at the clinic.
Ava was early so she figured she would see what Sara or Nora were up to before meeting Miranda and walked down the hall. She hadn't taken more than a few steps before Zari came around the corner, stuffing her face with a jelly donut.
"Hey," Ava said.
Zari nodded, before swallowing so she could speak to her. "Hey Ava, what's up?"
"Not much, I was just checking in to see how everyone was doing?"
"Sara's sound sleep in the parlor and I think Nora and Ray snuck off somewhere, but Charlie, Mick, and I were about to start a round of Mario Cart if you want to join in?"
"I'm good, but thanks," Ava said. "I just wanted to see if anyone wanted to get lunch?"
"Yeah, we're kind of on desert right now," Zari said, taking another bite of her donut. "But you could come back for dinner? Ray's cooking tonight and you know whatever he makes is gonna be good."
"Sounds great," Ava said, with a smile. "Will you tell Sara that I'll meet her here after work?"
"Sara has been spending a lot of time at your place. Is she moving in with you?" Zari flat out asked her.
"Umm." Ava faltered. They hadn't discussed their new arrangements with any of the team yet and Sara had been reluctant to commit to her place. "No, but we're thinking about it."
"Fine," Zari said, walking away.
Ava was confused and watched Zari walk away. It wasn't like Zari to be so shot with her. Ava remembered how the ring box had been in her pocket for a month before she almost lost it on a mission and put it in her bedside table until she could work up the courage. Ava wondered if Zari had found it in her pocket or caught her staring at it.
Ava didn't know why she was scared of telling them about it. Of course, she didn't want it to feel like she was taking Sara away from them or that she was breaking up the Legends. However, before she had time to dwell on the thought, Miranda texted her, saying she was ready.
"How soon will we get the results?" Ava asked as Miranda placed the cuff around her wrist. She felt a sting as the needle was injected into her veins. Ava watched as her blood flowed up the tube and into Gideon's mainframe.
"We should have the results within a few minutes," Miranda said, checking over everything.
Ava took a deep breath and tried to settle her nerves.
"It's going to be okay," Miranda said, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"I know," Ava said, but she was spiraling. She was confronted with all her thoughts and emotions about being a clone. "It's just that I never thought about where I came from other than, well, you know. What if I am carrying something and what if I pass it on to the baby, what if it affects Sara during her pregnancy and…"
"It's alright to be scared," Miranda said. "Especially when it concerns your child. Why don't you close your eyes and take a few deep breaths?"
Ava nodded. She felt Miranda take the cuffs off her wrist, but continue to sit for a moment longer. Eventually, she got up. They stood and talked until Gideon's soft voice came from the speaker.
"The results are ready for you."
"Thank you, Gideon," Miranda said. She looked over the results and Ava held her breath.
"Ava?" she said, catching her attention. "The results are clear, I've never seen anyone's genetic history so blank. You have no indicators for any genetic diseases. I can't even see a reason why you would develop Alzheimer's in your old age."
"Thank you," Ava said, letting out the breath she was holding.
Ava opened a portal for Marinda, taking her back to work and continued to sit in the med-bay alone. She pulled up the tablet looking at her medical history again. She was so relieved at the results, but there was something else she needed to know.
"Okay Gideon," she said.
"Are you sure you want to do this Director Sharpe?"
"I'm sure," she said.
"Alright," Gideon replied, "I'll build a profile of your DNA and will search through any known databases I can find for any matches. I should have a report for you in the coming days. Though, I'm not sure how long it could take or what I will find."
"That's fine. Thank you Gideon," Ava said.
The whoosh of the med-bay door opening caused her to jump and turn around to see Sara yawning and stretching her arms above her head. Ava's expression softened and she walked towards her. Pulling Sara in and wrapping her arms around Sara's waist. Sara leaned up and greeted her with a kiss.
"Hey sleepy head," Ava said, as Sara ran her fingers through her own messy hair.
"Hey you," Sara replied, with hooded eyes and a soft smile. "Zari mentioned that you were looking for me."
"Kind of, I just finished up with Miranda," Ava said.
"Really, how did everything go?" Sara asked, perking up.
"It went well, I don't carry any genetic diseases," Ava said, smiling down at her. "Just like you said."
"That's good to hear," Sara said, as the left the med-bay and walked down the hall. "Do you want to stick around and get some lunch?"
"Sure," Ava said, as she placed her hand on Sara belly.
Sara laughed, dragging her hand away and leaning in to her to whisper in her ear. "I thought you said you wanted to keep it a secret?"
"I do," Ava said, taking ahold of Sara's hand instead and bringing it to her lips. "I just can't resist holding on to the both of you."
Sara smiled and leaned into her, as Ava wrapped her arm around her shoulder. She leaned down and pressed a kiss to the top of Sara's head.
January 31th, 2020. Week Eleven.
Sara stirred the pasta in the pot, as she prepared their dinner. She had some music playing in the background and it overlapped with the sound of the onions as she sauteed them in the pan.
She looked up to see Ava walking down the stairs and carrying her bucket of cleaning supplies. Ava walked past her and tucked it away in the closet before coming into the kitchen and stripping off her gloves.
"Smells good," Ava said, as she walked over to get a better peek.
Sara wrinkled her nose shooing Ava away. "You stink."
"What?" Ava said, her face falling. "I do not."
"You do," Sara insisted. "You smell like that ridiculous cleaner you always use."
"It's lemon and it smells nice."
"Yeah well it makes me nauseous," Sara said letting her irritation seem into her voice. She turned back the pan and pulled out one of the noodles.
"Okay," Ava said, holding up her hands and backing away. The mood swings had started a week ago, nothing too serious, but she tried to gave Sara time and grace when they swung her way. She had also learned to trust Sara's nose or risk getting thrown up on. "I'll go wash up and change."
"And open the windows too," Sara called back to her.
"It's January?" Ava protested.
"Yeah well, now the whole second floor probably stinks."
"I'll turn on the fans," Ava said, trudging up the stairs. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"
"I didn't realize until you came down," Sara said in a softer tone, glancing back at her.
Ava paused on the stairs, letting out a sigh and staring up at the ceiling. "I'm buying a new cleaner."
Sara chuckled at her dramatic flair as Ava disappeared up the stairs. Then poured the pasta out into the strainer. She grabbed the vegetables from the fridge and started to chop them, just as her phone ring. Sara saw Gideon's name flash across the caller ID and picked it up.
"What did they do now?" Sara asked, the majority of the time when Gideon called her, she was ratting out the crew for their latest disaster or for going against Sara's orders.
"Bold of you to assume we did anything wrong," Zari said, from the other end of the line.
Sara laughed and switched the phone from one ear to the other, getting a good grip on it. "Oh yeah, then why are you calling me?"
"We got an alert from the magical odometer, looks like there's a book, some kind of time travel spell manual. It appeared in London, May of 1940."
"Can't it wait till tomorrow?" Sara asked, but turned off the burners anyway.
"I'm afraid not," Zari said. "The book literally time travels. We need to get it before it moves again or is destroyed during the blitz and lost to history. Nora said that it could help us investigate more thoroughly to find more magical creatures and identify them."
"Okay, I'll be there in a moment," Sara said, hanging up the phone just as Ava walked back downstairs.
"Who was that?" Ava smiled and walked up to Sara smelling much better.
"Zari, we've got something in London, 1940. A book she said is important."
"At the height of the blitz?" Ava asked, concern weaving itself on her face.
"Yes," Sara replied. "It should be a quick mission, in and out."
Ava stepped forward and cupped Sara's face in her hands as Sara wrapped arms around Ava's waist.
"You'll be safe? Ava asked.
"Yes," Sara said, as sure as she could.
With their height difference, all Ava had to do was tip her head up to press a kiss to Sara's forehead before ducking down and pressing her lips to Sara's. Ava properly wrapped her arms around Sara and gave her a quick hug before pulling back.
"Go get em, babe," Ava smiled and pulled back giving Sara a little butt slap when she turned around.
Sara looked over her shoulder and smiled before opening a portal and stepping onto the Waverider.
"Alright, alright," Sara yelled, as everyone filtered onto the bridge. "Now I know things have been a little dull around here, so I hope you all haven't forgotten your moves."
"The object we are looking for is the book of Dorian. It's a spellbook, for spells involving time travel," Nora said, as she pulled up pictures of the book on the screen in front of them.
"How did it end up in London?" Charlie asked.
"I'm not sure," Nora said, leaning against the console.
"And what about Dorian himself?" Ray asked. "We won't have to worry about him trying to get the book as well?"
"We haven't heard anything from him on any of the magical creature alerts so it should be a pretty easy grab and go," Sara said.
"Great that means I can sit this one out," Charlie said, already falling down into one of the chairs in the Parlor.
"And what's so important that you don't want to go? Zari asked.
"Nothing," Charlie said, picking her head up to look at Zari. "I just don't want to get caught in the Blitz."
"Are we sure this is safe?" Mick asked, specifically looking at Sara.
Everyone on the ship grew quiet as they all stared at Mick and Sara.
"Yes," Sara said, before anyone could ask Mick why he was so concerned all of a sudden. "So, Nora and I will go into the Bookshop to look for the book, while Mick keeps watch outside. Ray can quarterback the mission from the ship and keep an eye on the bombers, while Zari can keep an eye on Charlie."
"How come I'm stuck babysitting her?" Zari said, throwing her thumb over her shoulder at Charlie.
"I don't need a babysitter," Charlie yelled back at them.
"Cause, she's your girlfriend," Sara said, patting her shoulder and walking over to the Captain's seat.
May 17, 1940
Sara, Nora, and Mick stood in the alleyway across the street from the book shop as they watched everyone evacuate. The sirens rang out, making the dark night seam heavy around them. The world was black and the houses were darkened as the city lights went out. The old bookkeeper locked up his shop before hurrying down the street with his wife.
"Okay," Sara said turning around to them. "If things do go south just forget about the book and book it out of there."
Nora rolled her eyes at Sara's pun but nodded.
"Got it," Mick said, looking back at the bookshop.
As soon as the couple turned the corner Sara motioned for Nora to follow her. They crept across the street to the door of the bookshop. Sara looked around before kneeling down and quickly picking the lock.
"It would have been quicker if I had unlocked it with my magic," Nora said.
It was Sara's turn to roll her eyes as she turned the knob, opening the door and stepping into the quiet shop. Nora walked in behind her and Sara started scanning the shelves for the book.
"What does it look like again?" Sara asked, turning back to look at Nora.
Before she could get a reply, Nora's hand lit up, and suddenly all the books started swirling around her. Sara watched in awe as the books flew off the shelves swirling around before dropping to the floor. She soon spotted the book they had been looking for as it flew out of the shelf and straight into Nora's hands.
The second it touched her fingertips someone came up behind her. He tackled her to the ground and wrested it from her grasp. Sara reached forward and pulled the man off of Nora, She shone her flashlight in his face, to reveal the old man who owned the bookstore. His white hair glowing in the light and his wrinkled face scowled up at her.
"How dare you try and steal from me?" He screamed. "Do you know the power you could unleash?"
Sara paused for a moment before the realization, dawned upon her. "You're the one who created the book. You're Dorian."
"Yes," Dorian said. "And it looks like I have two thieves that need to be taught a lesson."
Sara could hear Nora begin to whisper something behind her. A spell of some kind, but before she could cast it he sent out a force of power that pushed them both back, as they crashed into the bookshelves.
The air was forced from Sara's lungs and she laid there gasping for air against the bookshelf. Sara closed her eyes and her hand flew to her stomach, her baby. She took a deep breath and assessed herself, there was an ache in her shoulder but, other than that she was fine.
Nora had taken the brunt of his power and he stood above her. Sara got up and charged him. They exchanged a few blows and Sara opened her mouth to let out a Canary Cry from the sonic device around her neck. Before she could let out more than a single cry someone grabbed ahold of her.
Sara felt two hands grab her around her waist and recognized Mick's arms as he hauled her out. He pushed her forward and ran out the door. They were at the foot of the Jump Ship when Sara slammed her feet into the soft ground forcing them to stop.
"What are you doing? You're supposed to be helping Nora!" Sara yelled at him, turning around to face him.
"She can handle herself, your more important," Mick said, trying to pick her up and drag her to safety.
"I asked you to do your job and let me do mine," she said, wiggling out of his grasp.
"Not when it puts you and your kid in danger!" He yelled back.
She looked back at Mick and knew she didn't want to waste time arguing. "Fine, I'll get on the Waverider, but you need to go help Nora."
He looked like wanted to protest, but Ray chimed in their ear.
"Guys, the German bombers are almost above you, you need to get out of there."
Mick took one last look at her, Sara knew she was favoring her shoulder and that Mick could see that, but he took off and Sara boarded the Jump Ship.
"Sara, they have to get out of there!" Ray yelled.
Sara could hear it overhead and she watched as the bombs descended on the houses down the street leading up to the bookshop.
"Nora!" She screamed.
One of the bombs detonated on the house in an explosion of fire and light, as the wood and bricks scattered around the street. As soon as it came, it was gone and all that was left was burning streets and the sound of the flames. Sara exited the Jump Ship, stepping out onto the street and slowly walked towards the bookshop. She was relieved to see purple light in the middle of the rubble as Nora's powers shielded them. It disappeared to reveal Mick and Nora standing there unharmed, but not holding the book.
Sara let out a sigh of relief and ran to them. As they crawled out Sara threw her arms around Nora.
"Oh, thank god!" Ray yelled, from behind them. He had run through a portal that was still open with Charlie and Zari looking on, with the same look of relief on his face.
Ray ran forward and crushed Nora into a hug, then patted Mick on the shoulder, it was as much affection as Mick would allow.
Sara landed the Jump Ship and they walked on to the Waverider, Mick and Nora were covered in soot but unharmed. They converged in the med-bay with Charlie and Zari.
"Gideon, can you please check them over?" Sara asked, ushering them in.
Sara walked over to the beds and set her sights on Mick until he reluctantly sat down and Nora hopped up. Sara stood in between them and felt Nora slip the extra bracelet around her wrist. Gideon gave them a once over and healed their cuts and bruises. Mick got up as soon as Gideon gave them a clean bill of health. Nora moved to Ray's side, as he brushed the ash out of her hair.
"Why don't we settle in for the night," Sara said.
"Let's watch a movie? It'd be a great way to relax," Ray offered.
It was still early and Sara had no doubt that they would be up late tonight as the adrenaline took it's time to wear off. "Sounds good Ray."
"I'll pick one out," Charlie said, running out of the room, with Zari hot on her heels.
"Are you going to head over to Mona's for book club?" Ray asked
"Yeah," Nora said, giving Ray a smile. "But I'll be home before you go to bed Honey."
He nodded and leaned down to give her a quick kiss before jogged off. He whistled the tune of the musical he would probably choose to put on. Mick looked at them a little unsure if he should stay.
"I'm gonna go make some popcorn," he said.
"No Mick, you need to stay," Sara said.
"Sara," Nora started, before she was interrupted by Gideon.
"You're all set Captain," Gideon said. "Your fetus is unharmed and is doing quite well. Although, I can not give you anything to heal the bruise on your shoulder, as it would contain an additive that could affect your pregnancy. I would advise a cold compress."
"Thank you Gideon," Sara said, taking off the bracelet. She looked over at Mick and Nora. "I could have gotten out of there on my own. Mick, you should have helped Nora."
"We thought you needed help getting out of there and we didn't want you fighting him yourself," Nora said.
"But I didn't need help and you could have gotten out of there sooner. You risked both your lives by worrying more about what could have happened than what was happening." Sara trailed off as they both hung their heads. "Look what's done is done and everyone is safe and that's what matters, but I need you two to listen to me and back me up, especially after I tell the others."
"Okay," Nora said, looking at Sara and nodding.
Sara smiled at her then looked over at Mick. He shuffled his feet but looked up at her and said, "okay."
"Thank you," she said.
"Are you going to join us?" Nora asked as they walked out of the med-bay.
"I think I'll go home," Sara said, gesturing with her thumb over her shoulder.
Mick and Nora exchanged a less than subtle smirk and Sara frowned as she realized why they had not said anything about her actions.
"You two let me chew you out and you stayed quiet because you're hoping Ava will scold me once I got home."
"We knew that you'd be more likely to listen to her," Nora said, crossing her arms.
"She's got you by the collar, Boss," Mick teased her, with a smile.
"She does not," Sara scoffed, as she crossed her arms, but they laughed at her anyway.
"Well jokes on you because I didn't do anything wrong," Sara said, before turning around and heading to her room to gather her things.
Sara and Nora portaled into the hallway of Mona's apartment building. It was Mona's turn to host the book club. The four of them had a rotation set up. They would meet at either Ava's or Mona's place, the Waverider, or the Bureau and discuss whatever book they were reading, but it would often dissolve into drunken talks. Mona and Sara would discuss theories and different themes of the book, while Ava and Nora just let them go on and on. Until the conversation took a more personal turn as they often discussed their relationships, life or other stuff.
Ava loved it, she would be sure to finish early at work and clear her scheduled for the night as they often ended up sleeping over at each other's places. Lately, Ava had been staying sober with Sara and leaving early so they could get home before Sara passed out on the closest surface, which was often Ava's lap. Tonight Sara had insisted that Ava go and have a good time, going as far as to buy a bottle of Ava's favorite red wine just for the occasion.
Mona opened the door giggling, "hey you two."
She was clearly tipsy and she pulled them in for a hug, spilling her drink on the floor. Ava appeared in the hallway behind her, smiling with flushed cheeks, but holding a cup of coffee. Having clearly tried to sober up after Sara called her. Sara could smell the sweet brew from the hall, it was one of the best and worst changes due to her pregnancy.
"Trade you?" Sara asked Mona, patting Nora on the shoulder.
"Yeah," Mona said, stepping aside so Nora could come in. "We just started playing go fish. We were playing poker but, we're a little too drunk."
Moan feel into giggles and Ava chucked behind her.
"I only lost a twenty," Ava said handing her coffee mug to Mona and stepped out into the hall, her arms around Sara's waist, Ava greeted her with a kiss. "I missed you."
"I'm sure your wallet will survive." Sara hummed and settled into Ava's arms, she smelled like coffee and donuts with a sloppy smile on her face.
"You're staying too, right?" Mona asked, stepping into the apartment.
"No," Sara said. "I should probably just go home, but you three have fun."
"I'll go with you then," Ava said.
"No Babe," Sara whined pressing her hand to Ava's chest. "You should stay and have fun with your friends. You haven't spent any time with Nora yet."
"I see them all the time, besides we do this like once a week. I'm going home with you," Ava said in a firm tone and left Sara's side to gather her things.
Sara wanted to argue with her, but she knew that Ava had made up her mind. However, it didn't stop her from feeling selfish about taking Ava away from her girl's night.
"Good night, you two cuties," Mona gushed leaning on the side of the door frame as they walked out.
"See you later Mona," Sara said, turning away.
"Wait, Mona, do you have my keys?" Ava asked, turning back just before Mona closed the door.
"Oh, yeah."
She disappeared into the apartment returning a moment later with Ava's keys. A simple set with her house key, car fob, and backup car key.
"Thank you," Ava said handing them over to Sara.
Mona smiled at them and then waved to them after they got on the elevator. "Text me when you get home safe."
"We will," Ava said, waving back.
Ava clung to Sara the whole way down to the car, a little handsy, sneaking her fingers under the waistband of Sara's jeans.
"Wait till we get home," Sara said, laughing as she brushed Ava's hand away.
"I just want to feel the baby," Ava explained.
Sara moved her hand over her jeans with a smile. "Okay."
Sara opened the passenger side door once they got to their car and waited for Ava to climb in. She grabbed Ava's seat belt only to be stopped.
"I'm not that drunk. I can buckle myself in," Ava insisted.
"Okay," Sara said, letting Ava do so. She walked around to the driver's side and got in. With the keys in her pocket, she pressed the start button. Then reached over to double check that Ava's seat belt was secure.
Ava grumbled, but she had buckled herself in. Sara just shook her head and backed up and out of the parking garage. Sara drove through the city as Ava stared out the window. The streets in Mona's neighborhood were busy with bars, shops, and people walking around and having a good time. As Sara drove into Ava's neighborhood the drive became quiet, with only the occasional midnight jogger, car, or motorcycle.
Ava had reached over during the last part of the drive and held Sara's free hand with both of hers, staring over at her as if Sara was the best thing in the world. Once Sara parked in the driveway Ava got out and ran around to her side to open Sara's door. Ava put her arm securely around Sara's waist and walked with her inside.
Ava hung up her coat and held out her hand for Sara's. Sara couldn't keep grimace from her face as she shrugged off her coat. Ava's mouth dropped open and took the coat from Sara. She could see the bruise peeking out from under Sara's t-shirt and pulled at the collar to see more. Ava's hands found the hem of her t-shirt and Sara let Ava pull it over her head. Her eyes went wide as she gasped when she saw the black and blue bruise that had formed over Sara's shoulder.
"It's okay, it's just a bruise I got from the mission when the guy knocked me down. I'm fine and so's the baby," Sara said, taking ahold of Ava's hands.
"I am so relieved that you are okay," Ava said, hugging her tightly, then pulling back and cupping Sara's face, asking her to look her in the eye. "But Sara you can't do that ever again. You can't go out in the field now that you're pregnant."
"Ava," Sara whined, pulling back.
"No, Sara, I'm serious," Ava said, looking at her. "It's not just your life on the line, you're carrying our child."
Sara didn't say anything back just put her shirt back on, kicked off her shoes, and sat on the couch. Ava sat down next to her and Sara turned her head looking away from her.
"What was I supposed to do? He ambushed us and knocked Nora down. I was trying to help her," Sara said, gesturing wildly with her good arm.
"You shouldn't have been there in the first place. Your team is perfectly capable of handling it themselves," Ava said, she tried to keep her voice even and calm, but Sara could hear the worry slipping in.
"Yeah, but Mick was across the street." Sara sighed she wasn't looking for a fight. "Look. I'm trying to be safe, but it's impossible for me to not engage. What if next time it's just me and there's nowhere to go? I won't let anyone get hurt because I'm trying to save myself, not when I can help them."
"Well then, there won't be a next time, because I'll take your place," Ava said, in a firm tone that she used to get the final say at the Bureau.
"You know you can't do that, you have your job at the Bureau." Sara countered.
"I won't, I'll just come on missions with you after my meetings, field oversight, and paperwork are done."
"I don't need a babysitter," Sara said, getting up and pacing the room. "And I don't need you running my team for me."
"Well, clearly you do," Ava said, sitting forward.
"Well, why don't you just propose and we can get married right now. That way you can just ground me whenever I step outside without you because that's just what you want," Sara sneered.
Ava paused stared up at Sara. She huffed and refused to meet Ava's gaze as things grew quiet around them.
"You knew I was planning to propose?"
"Of course I knew Ava. Everybody knew."
"Everyone?" Ava asked, before shaking her head.
"Yes," Sara said, it was the most obvious thing in the world. "At first I just thought that you were planning some big proposal, but as time wore on I thought you were just scared, but now? I don't know if you even want to commit to me."
"How could you say that," Ava said, getting defensive. "After everything we went through. After you pulled me out of my own personal hell, after we picked out a mattress and saw our future together?"
"What was I supposed to think? That one day, everything wouldn't fall apart? That you wouldn't change your mind?" Sara yelled.
"No, I mean yes, I won't change my mind. I'm not going to walk away, not ever, and especially not now," Ava said.
"I don't want to get married to you just because we're having a baby," Sara said. crossing her arms.
"I'm not asking you to," Ava said, throwing her hands up. "Wait. Is this why you don't want me to propose?"
"Yes, no," Sara stammered and stopped pacing. "I just don't want you to be so overprotective."
Ava narrowed her eyes at Sara, "That's not the whole part, is it?
"It is!" Sara insisted.
"I know you're lying to me, Sara," Ava said, taking a firm tone again.
"Okay, I just," Sara stammered, then cried out. "I don't want to give up my life."
Ava was silent as she waited for Sara to explain. Sara sat down on the ottoman and hid her face in her hands for a moment before she looked up and continued.
"My whole life is on the Waverider. It's where I've lived for the past five years. It's my job, it's my legacy, it's all of my accomplishments and one of the best things I've ever done. I know that being a mom means that I'll have to take a break from all of that. And getting married just feels like I'll have to commit to living here in the present and never time traveling again. I don't want to give it up, I'm not ready, I'm sorry," Sara said, falling into a mess of tears.
Ava moved forward, falling to her knees and wrapped her arms around Sara. Sara's body heaved with sobs and Ava moved back to the couch, pulled Sara into her lap. Ava held her close as Sara sat in her lap and buried her head onto Ava's shoulder.
Ava whispered into her ear. "Hey, just let it out baby. It's okay."
Sara held on as she sobbed and after a while, her tears turned into hiccups. Ava grabbed the water bottle from the end table next to her, handing it to Sara once she pulled back. Ava put her hands on Sara's arms, rubbing up and down as she looked down at the bottle in her lap.
"Sara." Ava started out soft and slow. "Listen to me, I live here in the present, right? I have a house, a yard, a nine to five job, and that job is a desk job. Sure I help you out on missions occasionally, but the majority of the time I'm the one directing, not fighting. Do you think that makes me less of a fighter or makes my accomplishment, my work less important?"
"No," Sara whispered.
"Yeah, and that means that your career isn't going to be less than it was. Yes, it will change, but that's not a bad thing and if we get married I'd never ask you to stop doing the thing you love. Sara, I'd never ask you to quit time traveling. I just want to make you mine, as possessive as that sounds. I was never supposed to be able to be in a relationship like this or have the chance to build a family that's my own. Our community worked so hard to have that right and I want to take advantage of that. I want to give you all the benefits being my wife, my legal spouse would have."
Sara resisted the urge to roll her eyes and instead just looked down at her hands. Of course, Ava would think about the paperwork and legal stuff involving their marriage. Ava reached up and held Sara's face in her hands, bringing her chin up to look at her and wiped an errant tear away with her thumb.
"I know you're not ready to give up going into the field," Ava said, as Sara held her breath waiting for Ava to reiterate her stance. "And I don't want you endangering yourself in a fight, but if you think that it's warranted and you promise to be safe. Then I have no problem with you continuing your missions."
"Really?" Sara asked.
"Yes," Ava said. "I shouldn't force you to stay on the ship. I trust you to make the right decision for your safety and for that of our child."
"Thank you," Sara said, looking at Ava with softer eyes.
"If we take it one step at a time it will get easier, my love," Ava said.
"Okay," Sara said, burying her face in Ava's neck. "I love you."
"I love you too," Ava said, wrapping her arms securely around Sara's waist. "You goober."
Ava could feel her smile and pressed her lips against Ava's neck. Then Sara pulled back and looked at Ava, she looked more sure than Ava had seen that night.
"I want to move in with you. You're right, it will be easier if we do things one step at a time and I want to try."
"Okay," Ava said and Sara knew she wanted to ask about marriage, but that Ava wouldn't push her.
Sara sighed and asked, "Can I see the ring?"
Ava didn't even have to get up she just reached into her pocket and pulled out the flat rectangular box, it opened to reveal the ring. It was a simple band with a trillion diamond set into a gold triangle on the band. It was modern and unique and very much Sara. She loved it and couldn't wait to put it on but, the implications that came with it were less exciting.
"Remind me again, what the difference is between just moving in and getting married?"
"Well, we'd have to plan a wedding," Ava said as she took the ring out of the box and held it between her fingers.
"Yeah, we're not having a big wedding until after I give birth," Sara said.
"Okay well other than that it's just the paperwork. Taxes, bank accounts, wills, and stuff like that."
Sara humed as they stared at the ring as it sparkled in the light.
"You want a big wedding?" Ava asked, with a half smile looking up at her with soft eyes.
"Kinda, I mean not big, big, but I want a white dress that's long and pretty, I want to walk down the aisle with all our friends and family there, with flowers, and white tulle, and a huge cake, and I want a big party."
Ava laughed, "That last part sounds like you."
Sara joined her and when their laughter died down, Sara put her hands over Ava's on the ring. "After the Gambit, I never thought I could have a chance at a normal wedding. With… With anyone. I want this with you."
"Okay."
Sara held out her hand for Ava to slipped the ring on her finger. It fit perfectly and matches the other gold rings on her fingers blending in so that no would know they were engaged unless they told them. Of course, their friends would notice right away, but she wondered how long it would take the legends to notice. Ava looked at it placed on Sara's finger.
"Ah, I'm so stupid," Ava said, covering her face with her hands. "It one of your only fingers without a ring."
"Hey, you are not stupid," Sara said, pulling her hands away.
Ava gave her a look. How could she have not noticed
"Okay maybe just a little," Sara said, she looked at Ava and smiles so wide Ava returned her smiled and tried to contain her excitement, but leaned in peppered Sara's face with kisses.
Sara broke out into giggles and put her hand to Ava's sides, tickled her as they dissolved into laughter. They slid down to lay on the couch, curling up they settled in for the night. After such an emotional night Ava wasn't surprised when Sara's eyes drooped and she fell asleep within minutes.
Ava laid there and watched her. She was so lucky to have Sara in her life to have all this, free will and the chance to make her own decisions, to have a love, the chance to get married, and a growing family. She kissed Sara again with a feather touch and Sara moaned in her sleep. She turned to snuggle up closer to Ava, although that was barely possible given how close Ava was holding her.