"Lovers and madmen have such seething brains, such shaping fantasies, that apprehend more than cool reason ever comprehends." ~Shakespeare

Lovers and Madmen

Characters - Edward Nygma (The Riddler)/Female OC

Rating for language, violence, and eventual sexual scenarios

Disclaimer: Don't own anything related to DC/Batman. I own original characters only. This story is merely to entertain, no infringement or offense meant.

Chapter 2 - Bad Day

"Sometimes the system goes on the blink

And the whole thing turns out wrong

You might not make it back and you know

That you could be well that strong"

At precisely 6:20 a.m., the sudden shrill tones of an electronic buzzer filled the quiet of Tamera York's apartment. Instinctively, she slammed the Snooze button. The buzzer, undeterred, tried ten minutes later, and again she silenced the offending alarm. Nine minutes passed and buzzing started, even louder than before. "Okay, I'm up!" Tamera shouted to the room. Her alarm was on a progressive timer. Each time she hit Snooze, the alert would sound off one minute less and a level louder. Turning off the buzzing, she stretched briefly before climbing out of bed. Tamera removed her pajamas and almost danced to the shower. Normally, she was not so cheerful in the morning, but this morning was special. Today she learned who got the promotion of Manager at her job.

Opening the closet door, Tamera didn't hesitate on choosing her favorite outfit, an off white pant suit and crimson top. Plugging in the iron, Tamera focused on her other morning tasks while the iron heated up. A few minutes later she deftly pressed her suit, and quickly threw her top on the board. In Tamera's excitement, she forgot to change the iron's setting to "Delicate" so when she placed the hot metal to the silken top, the heat began melting the soft fabric. Lamenting the loss of her favorite top, Tamera settled for the first professional looking shirt she could find, ran the iron over it and dressed. She quickly pulled her light auburn hair into a low ponytail, applied some light makeup and, with one last look in the mirror, deemed herself ready to tackle the world. The clock read 7:30 and Tamera knew she would be late if she didn't leave now, so she grabbed her keys from the dish on her dining table. 'I didn't even look at my mail last night!' she realized as she grabbed her bag sitting next to the table. It was mostly junk mail and two magazines, but an envelope marked "URGENT" caught her attention.

Ripping it open, she scanned the letter in horror. Her building had been bought in conjunction with the recent rezoning project and she had 30 days to move out. The letter further stated the rezoning meant the abandoned lot down the block where the residents parked their cars was now private property and "violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law." Granted it only mattered for another thirty days until the tenants were evicted, but the building was wedged in between another residential building and a strip mall, so no other parking was available. 'I'll just add that to the list of things to figure out later, after the meeting!' she thought.

With everything in hand, Tamera hurried out the door to her car, a used Kia Rio with well over six figures worth of miles. Red and tiny, the Rio would not have been such an embarrassment for her if not for the sagging front bumper, the dents and scratches decorating all four doors, and the dent in the trunk hood. Tamera had bought the junker off a girl living in her college dorm. The girl was graduating and needed to offload the car, Tamera needed a cheap car. She didn't even keep track anymore of how much money and time she'd poured into keeping the thing working - much more than the car was worth. Once that larger paycheck came, Tamera would treat herself to a new car.

Today, the car had a new addition. Fluttering in the wind, trapped under the windshield wiper blade was a letter. Releasing the paper, Tamera climbed into her car and unfolded the letter. The new owner of the block was exerting his rights early and starting last night at midnight, had ticketed any car parked illegally - including Tamera's. Tamera crumpled the letter and threw it in her satchel. She wasn't going to let a little bad luck bring her down. No, today changed everything for Tamera Roxanne York.

Arriving ten minutes late, Tamera rushed from the parking garage, through the building to her desk. She didn't think anyone noticed she was late until she saw Becki rounding the corner.

"Ah Tamera, finally here? Janice wants to see you after the morning meeting," Becki chirped, tossing her bleached blond hair over her cashmere shoulder.

Nodding her thanks, Tamera muttered 'Bitch" under her breath after Becki and her leopard print stilettos had disappeared. Becki had started with MediCorp six months after Tamera but, due to her incredible ass kissing skills had risen through the ranks. Becki didn't really do anything, but she was perky and, rumor had it, the office slut. The current rumor was that Becki had screwed the senior Marketing exec before he moved on to an up-and-coming model. The Marketing executive had transferred companies and currently Becki was an assistant to Alicia, the Vice President of Financial Services. To soothe her ruffled feathers, Tamera helped herself to a cup of coffee and a chocolate chip muffin. Dealing with Becki first thing in the morning definitely warranted some form of chocolate.

After booting up her computer, Tamera retrieved her voicemails and went to the break room to grab a cup of coffee and her mail. Each person she passed barely acknowledged the reserved woman. When she was promoted, Tamera would change that. People would respect her and listen to her opinions. In between replying to her emails, Tamera mentally reviewed her 'acceptance speech' and began to daydream of how great her life would be after today. She had just finished leaving a message for a customer when she felt someone enter her cube.
"Hey there, Tammy," a smooth male voice came from behind.

Turning around, Tamera smiled to see Isaac. They had been dating semi-seriously for close to six months; no talk of deep commitment but they were exclusive. Isaac had been so supportive the past few weeks, ever since the Manager opening was announced. Tamera had tried to familiarize herself with all the Managers and Administrative staff, offering assistance and taking on extra projects to show how valuable and dedicated an employee she was.

She worked tirelessly reviewing coding procedures and analyzing claims submission processes for efficiency, even outlining some ways to the billing process and save the company money. With all the effort Tamera had put into this promotion, she honestly couldn't think of anyone who deserved it more than herself. And when she was announced as the new Manager, the first thing she planned to do was take Isaac for a nice dinner, or even a weekend away. The stress of preparing for the promotion had strained their relationship lately, so maybe a relaxing and romantic getaway would do them both good.

"Geez Isaac, you scared the crap out of me!" Tamera yelped, spinning the chair around.

"Well, maybe you should be more observant," he replied with a smile. "Are you ready for the meeting?"

"I think so, but I'm so nervous I hope I don't pass out," she laughed, grabbing a pen and paper. "Are you free for dinner tonight? We can celebrate this whole mess being done."

"Actually, I have plans," he frowned, "but I'll talk to you after the meeting." He patted her shoulder and with a tight smile walked away.

Tamera entered the conference room and took a seat along with everyone else. She sipped her coffee as her coworkers talked amongst each other. The caffeine was doing nothing for her nerves, but the repetitive action was soothing. Eventually, Susan, the senior manager of Patient Accounts, walked in along with the rest of the financial leadership team and Alicia.

"Good Morning, everyone! Hope you guys are having a fabulous Monday morning!" Susan began and launched the slide show presentation with the meeting's agenda. Janice quickly went through the slides that addressed their latest hot button items and outlined some changes to the policies, Tamera felt proud as she recognized some of the ideas she had suggested, confident she was going to get the job.

"And now our last item to discuss, as most of you know we are reorganizing some teams to improve efficiency and cut costs. All of us on the financial team and administration deliberated endlessly about this. I just mentioned some new procedures we'll be implementing, and I'm very excited about their impact on the company. These changes will streamline our whole business model, making communication between departments and improve our customer relations, not to mention we will increase our profit margin. Like most businesses, we've hit a rough period and despite other efforts, we just aren't making the numbers. We analyzed our current budget and projections but the restructure will mean some jobs are no longer necessary. Janice will be meeting with those employees who, unfortunately, we cannot keep.

"Part of this shuffle does mean a new manager opening. We worked with Human Resources and we are thrilled to announce after much consideration that the new manager is…Isaac! Congratulations Isaac! Over the next couple months Isaac will be in charge of implementing our changes and I think he has some great ideas for the future of the company. I know he's itching to get to work and will be meeting with his new team members soon. That's all for today, kids," Alicia finished and closed the presentation and, after shaking hands with Isaac, left the conference room.

Tamera was in shock, still mid-rise in her chair. She had been so sure. She had the qualifications, the desire, and the energy. How could this have happened? In numb silence she watched everyone congratulate her boyfriend as the room gradually emptied. It wasn't until someone knocked her chair that Tamera jolted back to reality and robotically stood and left.

Barely stepping foot into the hallway, Becki flounced over to her. "Aww… you look terrible, Tammy! What's the matter? It's not like you were applying for the Manager position so you should be happy for Isaac," she prattled.

"What? Oh, no. It's a lot of changes, a lot to process. I just can't believe Isaac got it. He never even mentioned that he approached Human Resources," Tamera tried to cover.

"Really? He told me a few times about the meetings he'd had with Alicia and Janice. Don't worry, though. I know Isaac will take care of the people important to him. Don't forget to find Janice."

"Oh, right. Thanks, Becki." Tamera replied without enthusiasm. Right now she wanted to be alone, not meet with Janice. 'Might as well get it over with,' Tamera thought. She walked through the floor and finally knocked on the door marked "Janice Dobson, Human Resources".

"Come in," came a cheerful reply. Janice wasn't always happy or perky, but she tried to be pleasant and optimistic, especially when dealing with difficult situations.

Tamera opened the door. "You wanted to see me?" She was half hoping Janice might be too busy.

"Ms. York, please have a seat," she gestured to the plush chairs opposite her crowded desk. Tamera closed the door and sat in the proffered chair.

"As you just heard, we have some big changes planned."

"I'm aware. I didn't know Isaac was being considered for the Manager position."

"He questioned a lot of our current processes and brought us some interesting ideas to try. I understand you had expressed interest in the position."

"Yes, I've worked very hard the past few weeks and I thought I had proven how loyal and valuable an employee I was," Tamera replied. "I was the one who investigated the entire Claims process and recommended those changes."

"All of that dedication was noted. However, you're still relatively new to the company. We felt you needed experience under your belt before embarking on the leadership path," Janice smiled sympathetically. Tamera cared about Isaac but she wasn't sure if he was any more leadership material than she was.

"Okay, I'm confused. What are we meeting about?" Tamera asked. She genuinely had no idea what HR needed to meet with her about. She did her work, rarely goofed off or misused company equipment, and she was (usually) on time.

Janice's smile faltered, which was a clear indication of broaching a topic of unpleasantness. "Unfortunately all that research you've done the past few weeks showed us ways we could consolidate teams and where redundancy existed in our business flow."

"Isn't that a good thing?"

"The financial team was able to identify several instances of overlap, where one or more persons were doing the same tasks or reviewing the same information. By restructuring the teams, we can eliminate that overlap and save a lot of wasted time. With Isaac overseeing this new team, and by updating some software and procedures, we found that a full-time Claims Specialist is no longer required."

Tamera finally began to understand. "I don't have a job."

"I hate to say it, but we have to let you go, Tamera. By utilizing a Claims scrubber, taking advantage of electronic filing and having the coding staff directly review any errors, it will make everything much more efficient."

Tamera's mouth went dry. She had to swallow and clear her throat to speak. "I understand, Janice."

"I know the job market is tough out there, but you're bright, talented, dedicated, and I know any company will be happy to have you," Janice smiled encouragingly.

'Any company except the one I've devoted two years to,' Tamera thought bitterly.

"Take my card. You'll receive your packet in the mail about COBRA, along with some other forms. If you need a reference or assistance filing anything out, feel free to call." Tamera nodded and tucked the card in her notepad. She wouldn't ever call Janice or anyone else here. She would toss the card in the trash first chance she got. The cold smile plastered on the HR manager's face was testament to her professionalism, not a sincere concern for an ousted employee. After shaking Janice's hand, Tamera turned and left.

The walk to her cubicle was one of shame. Every person she passed seemed to look at her critically, like there was a blinking neon sign shouting "I just got fired" over her head. Eventually, she found an empty box and began packing up her cube. Her clock and name plate were the last items to go in the box, right on top of her Word-of-the-Day calendar and other mementoes. With a final wistful look at the barren workspace, Tamera hauled up the box and turned to see Isaac walking down the hallway towards her.

"Tough luck, kiddo. I tried to convince them how much we needed you," Isaac said.

"Thanks, I appreciate it. Hopefully, I'll find something soon."

He nodded and began to walk with her towards the elevator. "You will, and you can use me as a reference."

Tamera nodded and swallowed, not liking what she had to say next. "Congratulations on the promotion. I'm sure you'll do great," she replied, though her eyes held none of the cheer and all of the disappointment she felt.

"I hope so, it's a lot of pressure," he smiled with his perfectly rehearsed answer.

Tamera's box was not heavy but it was awkward, and she felt it slipping as she pressed the DOWN button. When Isaac offered to carry the box, Tamera didn't refuse.

"Come on, Tammy. You honestly thought you would get the promotion?'

"I worked harder than anyone for that job, certainly harder than you," she snapped.

"Don't be like that. I helped you because you had good ideas, but business isn't about working hard or ideas. Business is done by powerful leaders who can exploit the people connection. You aren't a leader, Tammy."

"I can learn, Isaac. I would have proven my capability, but now I won't have the chance."

Isaac shook his head. "You were set to be fired before the restructure."

"What are you talking about?"

"In preparation for becoming a Manager I had to meet with Administration and Human Resources. I was asked to evaluate several team members in order to create a solid team. Your numbers were dropping and Alicia was disappointed in your performance. I told her you were working on an analyst project for me to buy you some time," he answered.

"You were already a candidate for Manager when you began helping me?" His silence spoke volumes but Tamera was more confused than ever. Isaac had been at MediCorp for barely over a year. The only way he would be on the fast track was if he had help, someone on the inside of Administration.

The dots connected one by one. Becki had revealed her knowledge of Isaac's candidacy and his meetings with Alicia and Janice and Becki was Alicia's assistant- and mole. Isaac and Becki were friends and if Becki recommended him for the job, Alicia would at least check him out. Isaac had used her ideas to secure his promotion and his perfect cover story ensured no one would second guess his betrayal.

Already fearing the answer, a perverse part of Tamera had to know. "Did Becki help you?"

"Don't bring her into this. She wants the company to succeed, and we've been friends since she joined MediCorp."

Another answer became clear. "You're sleeping with her, aren't you? That's why you pulled away a few weeks ago."

"Yes, Becki and I have been seeing each other for about six weeks. I'm sorry you had to find out like this, but it wasn't working between us, Tamera. You're a great girl..."

"Spare me the condescending speech," Tamera cut him off and jerked open the door to the backseat, tossing her box onto it. She slammed the door shut and climbed into the driver's seat.

"I really do wish you the best, Tammy," Isaac said before Tamera yanked the door out of his hands.

Looking at him one last time, all she wanted to do was punch his perfect, smug face but inner pride begged her to keep what little dignity she still had. "That's great Isaac. I hope you get everything you deserve," she said before starting the car and pulling out of the parking space. Luck was on her side as the bitter tears didn't crest her cheeks until she angled her car out of the garage and onto the streets of Gotham.

Tamera maneuvered her car through the streets, only peripherally obeying the traffic laws. Not caring about your destination implies thinking about your destination. Tamera simply moved her car to follow the flow of traffic. The only indication that she was still in Midtown were the high-rise office buildings and the signs to East City Park. Sitting at a stoplight, Tamera saw a diner down the street and prepared to turn right until a dark blue SUV came barreling through the intersection. After cursing the reckless driver, she turned and pulled into the diner's parking lot.

Nothing improves a crappy day like a cheeseburger, fries and a chocolate knew she shouldn't waste her money, but the comfort food seemed more important than rationing her bank account. Tamera lazily scanned the newspaper while she ate, more out of boredom that actual curiosity.

Most of the news didn't seem important to her, but she was fascinated that the new mayor was holding a press conference from the City Hall atrium to discuss her referenda. Normally, Tamera didn't involve herself with politics as she thought all politicians lied to an extent, it was a matter of degrees. She had voted for Jacqueline Connors because the other candidates seemed like the less desirable choices. It would be interesting to hear what Mayor Connors had in store for Gotham.

As she pulled the Classifieds section out to begin her job hunt, Tamera realized she needed something to mark the possibilities. She reached into her bag for a pen and saw the Eviction notice and ticket. 'Well, at least I can use my free time to take care of the parking ticket,' she groused. The ticket listed "trespassing" as the violation cause. "Vehicle parked in private parking lot," was scratched in the description box. 'What the hell? It's not a private parking lot, it's completely empty!' Tamera fumed. Pulling out the other two papers, Tamera opened the letter she had pulled from her windshield. At the top, in large bold font read, "Parking Memo". Mr. Pryce, who had purchased her apartment building, had also purchased the vacant lot and was enforcing his ownership immediately. Apparently he felt his owner's rights extended to ticketing cars without notice.

Tamera considered calling Mr. Pryce's office but talked herself down almost as soon as she had her cell phone in hand. Obviously someone had alerted the cops to the alleged parking violations - someone who knew it used to be a vacant lot. Still, even if bringing grievance to the ruthless businessman was futile, Tamera hoped she could argue her way out of the ticket. Seeing that jerk be denied the satisfaction of not pushing one peon over would be worth the fight!

If she could persuade the court that there was no proof of ownership or prior notice of the ownership change, then maybe she could have the ticket voided on a technicality. It was certainly worth a try, she had nothing to lose by trying. The worst thing that would happen is the court ruled against her and she would have to pay the ridiculous ticket anyway. Emboldened by her miniscule hope, she dialed her building's super.

Tamera was almost positive that no signage or other notification was posted in the area which meant no discernable owner was listed to the public. Hopefully George could get her some proof that she could take down to City Hall right away. On the back of the actual violation was listed instruction for paying and disputing any citations. Deciding it was best to straighten out her unwarranted ticket while she had free time, Tamera searched the parking ticket until she found a local phone number. Her fingers punched the keys and hit "Talk" then drummed against the table as the phone rang.

On the third ring, a tired and monotone voice croaked over the line "Thank you for calling Gotham City, how may I assist you?"

"Hi there. I got a parking ticket and I don't think I should have," Tamera answered.

A sigh of resignation crept through the phone and Tamera heard the rustling of papers. "Go ahead," the crone rasped.

"I live in Lochlan Towers and it was recently bought. The new owner sent a letter about the change of ownership and our impending eviction." The crone grunted for Tamera to continue. "I just received the eviction notice – which states I have thirty days to move out – but this morning I also received a parking ticket."

"Where were you parked?"

"In the vacant lot on Oak Street. No one owns it but since our building has no available parking the residents always park there."

"It sounds like someone owns it now."

"Not until next month. If the new owner doesn't have rights to the parking lot, can he ticket our cars?"

"Do you have proof that the lot is vacant?"

"Yes, I can take pictures and provide a copy of the letter and the ticket itself," Tamera said.

"Without evidence I cannot determine if your ticket is valid or not," the worker stated. "You can request an administrative hearing to review your case; you can do this by mail or in person at our office at City Hall."

"I'll bring my evidence in person, thanks," Tamera said and disconnected the call. Immediately, she dialed her building's super.

"Mr. Easton? It's Tamera York in 3C and I have a huge favor. We all got tickets this morning for parking in that abandoned lot on Oak Street. Can you please take some pictures of it to prove there are no signs of ownership? Send them to my phone and I'll print them off. "

"Sure thing, Ms. York. Lucy's doing much better, by the way. Thanks for all your help."

Tamera smiled, "You're welcome George. I really appreciate this. Good luck with the move."
"Yeah, you too. Sucks ass, Ms. York, but what can ya do when The Man has ya by the balls, eh?"

"Very true, George. I'll see you later." Tamera had used her insurance knowledge to help George fill out various forms so his daughter, Lucy, could get treatments necessary to cure her meningitis. Not the most ethical of actions, but the Eastons were nice people. Of course they got free rent by managing the building, and with Lucy's health problems, Tamera worried what kind of future they both would have.

Mr. Easton kept his word and minutes later pictures from various angles of the lot were received by Tamera's phone. After paying for lunch, Tamera drove to a shipping center down the street. She forwarded the pictures to her email account and was then able to print those off as well as make copies of her other documents. With her packet complete, Tamera aimed her car towards City Hall.

*Author's Note: Sorry all. Had some really crazy stuff going on recently. Working on chapters 3 and 4 though so should be posted soon. Reviews are encouraged as that's what keeps me (and Riddler) inspired.

Happy Holidays!

*Chapter anthem is Bad Day by Daniel Powter