Chapter Five: Piece of Me
Lena's POV
Kara's naked body rested beside me. One leg draped over mine with her head on my chest and her hand over where my heart would have been. Sighing, she snuggled into my arms. Neither of us had said a word for nearly an hour. Both of us were content to stay in the peaceful silence.
I hate that I had to leave this shirt on. I want to be fully skin to skin with Kara. Not half way. I've not felt like this before. Even with Jack, I didn't feel this calm and…happy? The thought sent adrenaline rushing through my veins. What have I done? What have I opened myself up to?
"Hey." Kara's voice was soft as she rubbed my chest. "It's alright. I'm right here and I'm not going anywhere."
Relaxing, I nuzzled blonde locks. My statement might have been wrong earlier. While I may own a piece of her, she owns a piece of me too. I gave it willingly but now I'm terrified to see what she'll do with it. I want her to stay the night but I don't know how to ask. My God. What has happened to me?
"You've been thinking mighty loud. Anything you want to share?"
"What time are you expected in the office tomorrow?"
"Nine. I normally show up around fifteen til though. Why?"
"It's late. You can stay, if you'd like." Lena, that's not how you express wanting something! She might leave now.
"I'd like that." Shifting, Kara let her hand rest on my hip. "What time do you go into the office?"
"I normally arrive at 8:30. Most meetings start at nine or ten."
"Alright. I can leave when you do and stop by my apartment before work. Goodnight."
"Goodnight."
Waking a few hours later, I felt a strong arm wrapped around me. She's cuddled as close to me as possible. Glancing at the clock, I smirked. Damn it. I only have ten minutes left of this. Turning, I faced the still sleeping blonde. Snuggling into my chest, Kara snored softly. She looks so peaceful. I like having her in my bed. Yawning, Kara slowly woke. Realizing her position, she squeaked. "Someone likes to cuddle," I teased.
Shifting back enough to meet my gaze, Kara smiled sheepishly. "Morning…"
"Good morning." Reaching back, I grabbed my phone to turn off the alarm before it sounded. "Pizza for breakfast? Since we got a little sidetracked last night."
"Do you have time?" She asked, hope in her eyes.
"I can make time. Eat a piece while the coffee brews. I'll have to give you a tour next time you come over."
"Next time?" I nodded. A slow smile made its way to Kara's face. "Sounds good."
Begrudgingly, I tossed back the covers. Quickly, I pulled on my underwear. "I'll give you some privacy." Stopping at the door, my breath hitched seeing Kara sitting in my bed with only a sheet covering her. She's beautiful. "Coffee?"
"Please."
As the coffee began to brew, I pulled out the pizza. Placing half of it in a Tupperware, I put it by Kara's bag. At least she'll have lunch today. Scoffing at myself, I shook my head. We're not dating. I shouldn't be acting like this.
"Coffee smells great." Leaning against the counter, Kara took a bite of cold pizza.
"At least I'm not alone in the enjoyment of cold pizza." Pouring us each a cup of coffee, I pulled out my homemade creamer and added my desired amount. Allowing the steamy liquid to wake my soul, I sighed. "If you need, you can open the blinds and get a dose of sunshine."
"Do you mind?"
"Not at all." Picking up a remote, I pressed a few buttons. Finishing my cup, I placed it in the dishwasher. Walking up behind Kara, I tilted her chin and grinned. "Enjoy the sun." Kissing her quickly, I made my way towards the bathroom.
As I showered, part of me wished Kara could join. Looking at my chest, anger bubbled inside me as I saw the green glow. This damn thing has kept me from living my life. I tried to finish getting ready quickly in hopes of sharing a second cup of coffee before we left.
Entering the living room, I noticed Kara still in the sun. "I have a feeling I know where your favorite spot will be."
Turning, she smiled. Her mouth opened to say something but she quickly changed her mind. "There's so much natural light. It's fantastic."
"I'm glad you like it." Entering the kitchen, I noticed a to-go cup on the counter.
"I hope you don't mind. I thought you'd want to take the rest with you."
Simple things like this make me melt. "Thank you." Realizing the time, I smirked. "Guess it's time to go." Locking up, Kara followed me to my car. "I expect an advance copy of your article if possible," I teased. She always blushes when I do that.
"I'll do my best," she beamed. "Have a good day at work."
"You too. Fly safe." With that, she was off. Part of me wanted to kiss her again but I wasn't sure if anyone was watching.
Arriving at work, I settled in like I normally would. Sipping coffee, I turned towards the windows just in time to see a blue and red streak zip by. Go get them, Supergirl.
Around 9:15, I heard a commotion outside my office. Before I opened the door, I heard Jess frantically trying to get unpacked. "She's going to kill me. Shit." Stepping out, my assistant froze. "M-Miss Luthor," her voice trailed. "I…I'm so sorry. I got sucked into a book last night. When I finished, it was there in the morning, then I overslept, and-," Realizing I wasn't upset, she stopped rambling. "Are you mad? I can't tell if you're mad."
"Was it a good book?" Jess nodded, unsure of her fate. "Is it a series?" Another nod. "It's okay." Relief washed over the young woman. "Next time, if you start a good book later at night, set an alarm on your phone to go to sleep. Trust me, it helps."
"I-I will, Miss Luthor."
That was actual fear in her eyes. Has she been afraid of me this whole time? "Jess," I began softly. "You've only been late twice in the past four years. This being the second time. Were you afraid I was going to fire you?" Unsure of how to answer my question, I added. "Honest question. No negative impact will come of your response."
"A-A little. The Miss Luthor before the accident, no. She would let it slide as long as there was a good reason and I didn't do it often. The Miss Luthor now, I'm honestly not sure. None of us are. While you've never been a tyrant, you've been closed off. We don't know what to expect."
I never wanted my staff to fear me. That was one thing I vowed to change when I took over Luthor Corp. "Thank you for being honest."
"You're welcome, Miss Luthor." Taking a seat, Jess signed in and began working. "I'll bring in your appointment sheet shortly."
"Thank you, Jess. You have no idea how much that helps me." After entering my office, I popped my head back out. "Do you have the next book in the series?"
"Yes, thankfully," she beamed.
"Good."
Xxx
Kara's POV
As I worked on the Lena Luthor exclusive, I tried to keep my own feelings for the CEO out of it. Last night was incredible. Miss Grant is right though. Lena is good for me. The thought made my stomach drop. I'm getting attached. Sharing such an intimate part of myself with her and not being in a relationship was a bad idea. I wanted to give her that piece of me but still.
"Kara Danvers?" A man called as he exited the elevators.
"Over here." I waved my hand. "How can I-," Flowers?
"I have a delivery. Please sign here." He held out a clipboard. Signing, I took the vase with a half dozen red roses inside. "An extra packet of plant food is taped to the side. Have a nice day."
"Thanks. You too," my voice trailed. Finding the notecard, my stomach filled with butterflies.
Library tour Saturday night?
Smiling, I pulled out the phone Lena gave me. A library tour sounds great. You do know how to make a girl smile. Thank you for lunch and flowers. -K
"Well, well." Miss Grant studied the roses. "Someone has an admirer."
"Just a person." My second phone buzzed.
"That's some person," she smirked. "Believe what you will, Kiera. But flowers, especially roses, speak pretty loudly in my opinion."
I need to change the subject before I start to overanalyze everything. "I'm almost done with the Luthor article."
"Very good." With that, Miss Grant walked away.
Wish I could see it. -L
Once I was done at CatCo and checked in with the D.E.O., I began my nightly patrol. Seeing Lena on the L-Corp balcony warmed my heart. "Evening, Miss Luthor." I hovered a few yards away.
Meeting my gaze, an almost smile tugged at the woman's lips. "Supergirl, good evening. Nightly patrol or heading home?"
"Patrol for now." Ugh. I see her face and want to kiss her. More so now since we had that heart to heart last night.
"Would you like a glass of wine?" I shouldn't because we could be seen. Feeling my phone vibrate, I pulled it out to read a text.
If anyone was to see, I could be asking you something about security. -L
That's true. Landing, I followed the businesswoman inside. "Wine would be nice."
Pouring us each a glass, Lena offered me one. "I have a question for you. Jess brought it to my attention that since the accident, I've closed myself off. From an outside perspective, is that true?"
Thinking back, I compared the two Lena Luthors. "Yes, one was more hopeful. Now, to everyone else, you're closed off and guarded."
"Everyone except you," Lena thought aloud. Taking a seat on the couch, she sipped her wine.
"The article will help people get to know the woman behind the desk a little. What brought this up?"
"Jess thought I was going to fire her today for being fifteen minutes late. If it was a common occurrence, I would but she's only been late twice in four years. I never wanted my employees to fear me like they did my brother."
Crap. She's upset. I want to hold her. "People fear what they don't know. I think if you let them see the softer side of you, they won't walk around on pins and needles. Obviously, you still need to have an authoritative presence but not a cold one."
"How am I supposed to do that?"
"Right off the bat, I'm not sure. It'll be a slow process. Maybe let yourself be seen out in public? Showing people that you don't just live in the shadows."
Smirking, Lena finished her wine. "I'm not Batman. I could be, but I'd rather leave that stuff up to you." Her brow creased. "What? What's that look?"
"I think I just had an epiphany. Only if you're open to it."
"The amount of gitty joy you have is making me nervous. What is it?"
"Forbid something bad happens, but when it does, you could help save us. You're a brilliant engineer who wants to help people. Clearly, by the donations you refuse credit for. What better way than to let people see you helping a Super?"
"A Luthor and A Super working together?" The CEO thought for a moment. "I could see how that would work. Until then, being seen in public would be a good start. I get invited to galas or fundraisers on a regular basis." Lena met my gaze. "Thank you for being honest with me. A lot of people aren't."
"You're welcome." I want to stay but I can't. I need to finish my rounds. "I need to head out. See you Saturday?"
"Saturday is it. We'll figure out a time in the next day or so."
"Sounds good." Turning, I stopped mid step. "Lena, can I…" My voice cracked. "Never mind."
"Can you what?" Lena's voice was tender like it was last night.
Facing the brunette, I bit my lip. "Can I kiss you? When we're alone at least."
A dark brow rose. "And it not always lead to other things?"
My stomach fell. "It was a bad idea," I murmured. "Never mind." Turning to walk away, I heard her throat clear.
"I didn't say no." Joining me, Lena tilted my chin. "Fly safe, Supergirl." Closing the gap between us, the shorter woman kissed me.
I love these gentle kisses more than anything. Smiling, I hummed. "I will."
Xxx
Lena's POV
Turning the page of my book, I shifted in the large reading chair I kept in my library. Hearing my phone buzz, I smiled seeing Kara's number. I really should have just given her my number. Not a burner. She's not some dirty secret that needs to be hidden. Opening the text, I saw a selfie of Kara with the roses
on a kitchen table behind her.
They look perfect on the table. -K
Her smile is so warm. Zooming in, I looked around the kitchen. I want to see her place eventually. Saving the picture, I put it as Kara's contact photo. Taking a selfie of my own, book in hand, I sent it back.
A sneak peek of the library of your dreams. Perfect place to get lost in a world of pirates, magic, or history. -L
Saturday can't get here quick enough. -K
She wants to be here even without the outcome of sex. Running my thumb over my bottom lip, I thought about Kara's kiss. She wants to kiss me more often. Now that I've kissed her both ways, dominantly and gently, I want to keep doing it too. Kara has a good point about letting people see me again. It's been a long time since I've gone to an event. Maybe I can have a certain reporter as a plus one.
Xxx
Days passed and the new issue of CatCo Magazine was set to release next week. Hearing my phone buzz, I saw Kara's face and opened the message.
Lunch? I'm free for an hour. -K
Lunch sounds good. If I place an order, will you pick it up? -L
Sure. Should Supergirl bring you lunch or Kara Danvers? -K
Kara Danvers. While I do enjoy seeing you in your suit, the way you fidget with your glasses is top shelf. -L
Staring at the message, I scoffed. What the hell is this woman doing to me? I've never felt this easy around someone before.
*fidgets with glasses* Kara it is. -K
See you soon. -L
She's probably blushing too. Leaning back in my chair, I smiled at the thought. She does that a lot around me. I wonder if she'll stay over tomorrow night. I'd like her to. Even if we don't have sex. After placing the order, I sent Kara the details.
Twenty minutes later, Jess walked Kara into my office. "Oh, Jess?"
"Yes, Miss Luthor?"
"Will you send a note downstairs to let Kara Danvers in whenever as soon as possible?" Both women were shocked.
"R-Really?" Kara stammered. All I did was nod.
"Yes, Miss Luthor."
"Feel free to take a bit of a longer lunch. My next meeting isn't until two."
"Thank you, Miss Luthor." With that, we were finally alone.
"Thank you," Kara smiled. Her cheeks turned a light shade of crimson when she saw my outfit.
"You're welcome." I grinned, noticing the effect I had on her. "See something you like?"
"Y-You look really good in red…" Her eyes lingered on the buttons. "S-Sorry." Kara shook her head.
"There's no reason to apologize." Rounding my desk, I leaned against it. Taking the to-go bag, I pulled the blonde closer to me. "I'm sure the more time we spend together, I'll have a few favorite outfits of my own." Hope flashed in bright blue eyes. She does want to spend time with me.
"I hope so." Placing her hands on my chest, Kara smiled. "I have the final draft of the article. The only thing Miss Grant needs is a recent photo."
I shivered feeling slender fingers mindlessly toy with the collar of my shirt. "Her head would explode if she saw the library picture I sent you."
A wholesome laugh escaped the reporter. "Oh, goodness." She wiped her eyes. "She would probably fire the entire photography department and demand that I tell her how I got such a picture."
"That would be entertaining to see," I smirked. "Do you want to get a few shots while you're here? Preferably before we eat."
"Are you sure?" I nodded. "O-Okay." After straightening up my desk, I checked my makeup. "You look amazing as always. It'll be a change for a lot of people to see you with your hair down. I can take a few different pictures if you want to put it up."
"You really like my hair down, don't you?" The blood rushed to Kara's cheeks. "Any chance you get you pull it out of the ponytail or bun and tangle your hands in it."
"I do…yeah. There are things I like about both hairstyles."
"And what would those be?" I purred.
A squeak came from the reporter. "This is about you, not me."
I couldn't help but laugh. "Fine. I'll let you off the hook," my brow rose, "this time."
Nearly twenty pictures later, I decided to have a little fun. By now, she has to have at least one that Cat will use. When Kara wasn't looking, I unbuttoned a few more buttons. Careful not to uncover the kryptonite but open enough to show a lot of skin.
"Oh, golly." Pale cheeks pinked instantly.
"Now you really see something that you like," I grinned. "Come here." Pulling the woman into my lap, I captured Kara's lips in a slow but heated kiss. I let my hands rest on slender hips.
Kara groaned when her phone rang. "It's Miss Grant. I better answer it."
"Go ahead." I kept my hands firmly in place keeping the reporter on my lap.
"Yes, Miss Grant?" A devilish grin made its way to my face causing the blood to drain from Kara's. "I'm working on that." She watched as I unbuttoned her shirt and ran my nails gently down her abdomen. "I should be back soon." The blonde's voice shook. Dipping my head, I kissed tender skin. "Of course, Miss Grant." Ending the call, Kara shuddered. "You're going to get me in so much trouble."
"I'm a Luthor," I grinned. "What do you expect?" As I fixed Kara's shirt, she pouted. "I guess you have to eat and run? Pity. I wanted to have a little snack after lunch." My wink caused the woman to whimper.
"So much trouble," she murmured. Taking a seat in a guest chair, Kara unpacked the food. "I have to speed eat and run."
"I understand." I finished fixing my shirt. "Can I see a copy of the article tomorrow night?"
"Yeah, that should be fine. What time should I come over?"
"Six? I can cook, give you a tour, and lose you for hours in my library."
"Sounds good."
"Oh, would you transfer all of those photos to your actual phone real quick?"
"Sure." Doing as I asked, Kara waited for her primary phone to buzz. After saving the images, she gave me her attention. "Done. Why did you want me to do that?"
"Because I don't want you to use a burner. I should have given you my number. Would you use your heat vision to fry it?"
"Sure." I watched in slight awe at the precision of Kara's powers.
We ate in a comfortable silence until Kara needed to leave. "You'll have to tell me Cat's reaction to the pictures." I walked the taller woman to the door. "See you tomorrow."
"See you tomorrow." After kissing me, Kara wrapped me in a strong embrace. "Thank you."
I've not been hugged in so long. Reciprocating, I let my chin rest on Kara's shoulder. "I'm not sure for what, but you're welcome."
"For letting me in."
Xxx
Kara's POV
"Can no one, seriously, get a decent picture of this woman?" Miss Grant tried to compose herself as I walked into her office. "You're late," she snarled.
"I think you'll forgive me this time. Check your email."
Eyeing me, the powerful woman smirked when her tablet chimed. "Oh. My. God." Triumph filled me as Miss Grant flipped through all the pictures Lena and I agreed on. "Everyone besides Kiera get out or you're all fired." Once everyone left, she closed the door. "Who the hell are you? The Luthor Whisperer?" Miss Grant picked up her tablet again. "How did you get these?"
"I said that the article was done but the only thing missing was a recent photo. She said I could take some and let you pick which one to use."
Miss Grant stared at me dumbfounded. Unable to string her thoughts into coherent questions. "Are the two of you friends or something?"
I've been sleeping with her for nearly a month and I'm starting to have feelings but I don't know if we're friends. "Sort of? After the interview, we've talked more often." Not exactly a lie.
Miss Grant chose to believe me. "Good job."
"Thank you, Miss Grant." Making my way towards the door, I could feel inquisitive eyes on me.
"You're falling in love with her, aren't you?"