SuperCorptober day 11: Earth
Earthly Rituals
Many things confused me when I landed on Earth all those years ago, but none more than the wedding rituals some societies share. Especially the ones dealing with jewelry. I understand the giving of jewelry as gifts for friends and family but why would you create a wedding/engagement ring for one set of people and a friendship ring for others? Grumbling, I placed my tablet beside me as I heard Alex use her key.
"Hey. Sorry, I'm a little late." Placing the pizza box down, Alex flipped it open. "Can you use your heat vision? Traffic was terrible and the pizza got a little-," The older woman finally looked at me. "What's wrong?"
"I'm stumped." Using my heat vision, I reheated the pizza. "What do you get for someone who can buy a multibillion dollar company on a whim?"
"Still trying to figure out what to get Lena for your," Alex paused. "What did you call it?"
"Friendaversery." Taking a bite of pizza, I walked back to the couch.
"Yeah, that." Joining me, Alex flipped through our movie list. "That's not a thing."
"Why not? You have birthdays, burning parties, anniversaries, and plenty of others that focus on people. Why not have one focused on friends? On Krypton we valued each other's intellect and weren't afraid to show we cared for people outside of our family."
"Humans are weird?" Alex offered.
"American society is weird. There are other human societies that focus on community and family."
Shrugging, Alex sighed. "You're not wrong." Seeing my tablet light up, Alex glanced down. "Kara, why are you looking at engagement rings?"
"Calm down," I smirked. "They came up while I was looking at necklaces."
"Uh-huh…" Alex eyed me. "Horror, drama, or comedy?"
"Horror."
"Thata girl!" She laughed. "You'll think of something. You always do."
"I know. If I had a private jet, I'd fly us to Paris and Ireland for her favorite things."
Alex was quiet for a few minutes before dropping a bomb. "Do you love her?"
"Of course, I love her. She's my best friend."
Alex smirked. "Don't play stupid with me. That only worked for a few years."
"I…. I don't know," I shrugged. "Can we just watch the movie now?"
Xxx
"I can always count on you to make sure I'm fed," the business woman laughed. Hugging me, she squeezed. "Come in. What have you brought for us? I'm free for an hour and a half today. I couldn't push my 2 o' clock meeting any further." Placing her hand on the small of my back, Lena led us to the couch.
"Since it's our friendaversary, I called in a favor and brought something special." Unloading the thermal bag, I smiled hearing Lena's soft gasp. "I asked Supergirl to get your favorite pastries from Paris and your favorite chocolates and tea from Ireland. Then I got us some burgers from the place in town."
"Kara, this is too much. I didn't know a friendaversary was a thing so I didn't get you anything. I'm sorry," she pouted.
"You taking time out of your busy schedule to have lunch with me is plenty," I smiled.
"You know I'm going to figure something out," Lena smirked.
"I know," I shrugged. "What would you like first? Burger or chocolate?"
"Chocolate." Lena reached for the box. "You have to try some of these though."
"I will." Passing me the box, I decided on a piece of milk chocolate. Biting into it, my eyes rolled back. "Oh, gosh. The chocolate is delicious."
"Isn't it?" Lena chuckled. "Glad you can help me eat all of this. You had Supergirl get a huge box."
"I wasn't sure what you liked so I had her get the variety box," I grinned.
"You're the best." For the most part, we talked about work or memories of our friendship over the years. As time went on, I could see something was on Lena's mind.
"Is everything okay? You look like you want to ask something." I tossed away the trash and came back to sit beside the brunette.
"You know me so well," Lena smirked playfully. "I've been thinking about Supergirl's suit and how I could upgrade it. I'm toying with some gadgets that could help her stay safe as well."
She's always thinking about others. "That's nice of you. How can I help?"
"The two of you are pretty similar in stature. I need measurements for the suit but I can't ask Supergirl to let me do that." Fidgeting with her bracelet, Lena chose her words. "Could I steal you for a few hours and get your measurements?"
You have no idea how similar we are. "Of course you can steal me. Just tell me when and where."
"Tonight after you're done at CatCo?"
"I'll see you then." Realizing the time, I gathered my things and left.
Xxx
"Right on time," Lena smiled. Closing the door behind me, she continued. "Because of this, I actually came home at a decent hour. So, thank you for that."
"You're welcome. I wasn't sure what to wear so I brought some workout clothes." I motioned to my duffle bag. She's already changed clothes and pulled her hair back in a bun. I love this side of her.
"Something tight would be best," Lena paused. The matter of factness in the woman's voice made me shiver. "The black leggings that stop below your knees and a racer back tank would be perfect." Entering her office, Lena started rummaging through her desk.
Did her voice drop an octave? "The ones with green on the sides?"
"Yes, those," Lena called. "Be out in a moment. I'm looking for my fabric tape. You can change in your room."
"Perfect because that's what I brought." Entering the guest room, I smiled seeing the things I brought over. Since I stay over so often, she deemed this my room. Granted, I rarely sleep in here when I stay. Changing quickly, I looked myself over in the mirror. Very little was left to the imagination.
Exiting my room, I took a seat on the couch and flipped through social media. "Found it!" I chuckled at the triumph in Lena's voice.
I stood as the shorter woman rejoined me. "Are we ready?" For a split second, mischief flashed across the woman's face. Did I see that correctly? Nah. She's just excited about the new suit.
"Yup." Flipping open a notebook, Lena clicked her pin. "Let's begin."
Hours and many measurements later, I continued to curse myself. Why did I agree to this? She's so close. There's only a thin layer of fabric between her hands and my skin. I should not have agreed to this. Don't shiver. Don't do it!
"You're really toned. I never noticed it before under all of the skirts and long sleeved shirts." Lena's voice was unreadable as she moved the fabric tape.
"I…ttthhhhanksss…." Bad idea. Very, very bad idea. I can only not shiver so many times. Golly, I want to feel her hands on me. Not just her fingers brushing as she moves the tape. This is torture.
"Everything alright?" Standing, the brunette wrapped the tape around my butt. "I know I'm having to get up close and personal."
Staring into the distance, I did my best to keep my voice even. "It's ffffine." Moving the tape down, Lena cupped my butt with it. When she pulled it tight, I stumbled forward causing her hands to be pressed between us. "S-Sorry," I murmured.
Kneeling, Lena took my inseam. Her hands are dangerously close to my center. Gosh, I hope she doesn't feel the heat down there. "I feel like I should have bought you dinner and drinks before this." Carefully, she did the same to my other leg.
"Why is that?" My voice cracked.
Pausing, the CEO glanced upwards. "It was a joke since I'm fully invading your personal space."
"You're fine," I squeaked. "It's fine," I corrected. Way to go. Now she's definitely going to know something is wrong.
"Almost done." Getting to her feet, Lena held her arms in front of her. "Arms like this." I did as she asked. Wrapping the tape around my bust, Lena continued writing down numbers. "Something on your mind?"
"No…I just hope I'm being a good mannequin."
Sliding the tape to my waist, she held my gaze. "You're excellent," Lena smiled.
What is that in her eyes? And why is her breathing shallow? Her heart rate is slightly elevated too. "What else do you need to take?"
"I did your arms already. Very nice, by the way. So just your back." Walking behind me, Lena guided my arms outwards. Holding the tape at one shoulder, she slid her hand across my back to my other shoulder. I shivered and cursed myself. "Sorry," she breathed. Taking a step back, Lena cleared her throat. "I'm done."
Her voice has definitely changed. Lower now. "I didn't know so many measurements went into this type of thing." Turning, I noticed Lena's attention shift. Was she staring at my butt?
"I'm very thorough," she purred. Closing her eyes, Lena cleared her throat. "Would you pour us some wine? I need to use the bathroom."
"Of course. Are you hungry? I can make us something."
"That would be nice. Whatever you're in the mood for is fine." The bathroom door closed harder than normal.
As I poured the wine, I heard water splash. I hope she's alright. She had something on her mind by the time we were done. Taking a sip of the red liquid, I leaned against the counter. I can still feel her touch. I shivered.
After we ate, Lena cleaned the kitchen while I worked on an article. Ironically, one about weddings and how more women are popping the question. I can't seem to get away from certain rituals and customs. "Can I ask you something? It might make you feel awkward."
"Of course." Taking a seat beside me, Lena turned on some music and picked up her book. "I'm not sure there's much we can ask of each other that would make either of us uncomfortable now."
"Do you want to get married one day?" Lena choked on her wine. "Maybe there are still a few questions that make things awkward…" My voice trailed.
Choosing her words, Lena closed her book. "I've not thought much about it. There's not a lot of people lined up to marry a Luthor for love. It's always for power or money," she paused. "Why?"
"I was just curious." I saw a wedding ring a few days ago that I think you would love but I couldn't buy it for you because of Earth's, well American, rituals around rings. "Anyone would be lucky to have you as a wife."
"Thank you, Kara." Placing her hand on my knee, Lena smiled. "When you marry, if you choose to do so, whoever the person is will be the envy of the town." The air was heavy but not uncomfortable. "What ring size are you?"
"What?" I questioned, my stomach fluttering.
Realizing my panic, Lena's eyes grew. "Oh! No. I was thinking about a device for Supergirl." She paused, trying to think of something to add. "Not our current conversation. I'm sorry. I didn't think about how that would sound."
"Always thinking about others," I smiled.
Xxx
Arriving at the D.E.O. a few days later, I smiled seeing Lena and Alex talking at the round table. "Hello, everyone."
Gaining the CEO's attention, she smirked. "Nice of you to finally join us," she teased.
"I'm sorry, Miss Luthor. I was needed at the bridge."
"I guess I can forgive you," she smirked. "I have something for you." Pulling something out of her pocket, Lena set a small box on the table in front of me.
"What's this?" Remembering our conversation, my nerves decreased.
Turning back towards us, Alex gasped. "Oh, my God! It's happening!" Ignoring my sister, I opened the box.
"What's happening?" Lena frowned. "It's a shield."
"Oh…." Alex deflated. "In ring form?"
"Yes. It had to be worn." Meeting my gaze, Lena continued. "It will bridge the gap between when kryptonite is present and your ability to activate the suit." Looking past me, the business woman smirked at my sister. "What did you think it was?"
"Uh…." Alex rubbed the back of her neck. "Nothing?"
"It fits!" On my ring finger. "Thank you, Miss Luthor. This will be very helpful."
"You and Kara are the same size so I used her as a reference. I'm still mending your new suit." Lena chuckled. "You really need to thank Kara for that. She stood for hours letting me take every measurement possible."
"I'll make sure to do that," I smiled nervously.
Xxx
Having my weekly sister lunch, I waited for Alex to arrive. To my surprise, I saw Lena walking into the cafe with an employee in tow. "Kara!" She waved. "Go ahead and order. I'll be right there." The employee nodded and made their way to the counter. Making her way towards me, her eyes fell on my ring. "Is there something, or someone, you're not telling me about?"
"Huh?" What is she talking about?
"Is that an engagement ring?" Lena reached for my hand.
"No!" Sliding my hand under my other arm, I fumbled for words. "It's…. Just a ring. From someone…special." I stammered. Alex quietly slapped her forehead with the palm of her hand as she mouthed a four letter curse word.
Studying me, Lena questioned. "Who is it?"
Please drop it. "Just a….good friend who cares about me?" I feel so guilty.
A dark brow rose. "Is there a wedding date?"
Of course you wouldn't let it go that easily. "N-No. We're not getting married or anything like that." Sadly.
"Oh, I'm sorry," Lena pouted. "Well, I hope we get to meet soon." Glancing towards the counter, the businesswoman nodded towards her employee. "I need to go." Hugging me quickly, Lena whispered. "If I need to kick someone's ass in gear, I'll do it."
Laughing, I grinned. "I have no doubt." It's my ass you need to kick.
Once Lena was gone, Alex stomped over and grabbed my wrist. "You can't wear this as Kara Danvers until she knows the truth." Flipping my hand, she smirked. "If we were on Krypton you'd be getting married. Her symbol is on the ring."
Looking down, the blood drained from my face as I saw the trademark L-Corp logo engraved into the metal. "Oh, crap."
"Yeah." Releasing me, Alex sighed. "That was close." She glanced towards the counter. "I thought you were going to tell her soon."
"I keep chickening out," I groaned.
"She's a smart woman but she's also human with a lot of trauma. You need to tell her if you want to keep your friendship intact."
"I know." I whined, covering my face. "Can we change the subject?"
"Sure."
Xxx
Since the close encounter with Lena, I wore the shield ring on a chain when I wasn't in uniform. Even though it wasn't a symbol of anything, I still wanted to keep it close. For the most part, it worked well since the chain was covered by my clothing.
Game night came, and things were a little chaotic at my apartment. Too many people in too small a space. In all of the ruckus, I didn't realize the chain had broken until I heard Lena's voice from behind me. "What's this?"
Dread filled my chest. I felt my neck in hopes it wasn't what I thought. It's gone. Oh, no! Turning on my heels, I saw Lena knelt before me, ring in hand. "Lena-,"
"Oh my God!" Winn exclaimed. "It's finally happening!"
"What?" Everyone turned to look at us.
Examining the ring, all the pieces came together. "Kara…"
"I…..um…." Looking around, I cleared my throat. "Can everyone please leave? I need to speak with Lena privately." Once everyone was gone, I spoke softly. "Lena, please, let me explain."
Getting to her feet, she held the ring between her thumb and index finger. "One: you're Supergirl. Two: Alex and Winn thought I was proposing. Three: you seemed extremely disappointed when I thought this was an engagement ring a few days ago." The brunette paused, toying with it. "Is there something else you've been keeping from me?"
"Yes…" I hung my head.
"I'm only upset and a little disappointed right now. If you tell me everything, we can work through this." Lena's voice was stern but caring.
"That's worse!" I whined. Slumping into a nearby chair, I searched guarded green eyes. "I'm Supergirl and everyone, except us, until recently, has seen that I'm absolutely, hopelessly, in love with you. I started to realize it when Jack came to town and when you dated James. Then when you almost died," I bit the inside of my cheek. "I was devastated and risked everything to save you from the poison." I sighed, resting my cheek in my hand. "Then the fact that I think about Kryptonian tradition every once in a while only made it worse because we'd be engaged now."
"We would be…what?" She paused, taking in all of the information. "How? Why?"
"You gave me your family's symbol." I motioned towards the ring. "It has your logo carved into it."
Turning the ring, Lena inspected the symbol. "Huh…"
"I know that's not an Earth custom but…" I shook my head. "Never mind." I looked away, biting my knuckle. "It doesn't matter."
Stepping closer, Lena gained my attention when she slid the ring back onto my finger. Looking up, my heart fluttered seeing tender eyes. "I feel foolish for being jealous of a person who doesn't exist."
"When you thought I was engaged to someone else?" Lena nodded. "You were jealous?"
"I wanted to hunt them down and threaten them to an inch of their life." I snorted. "Don't laugh." Lena smirked, trying to stay serious.
"Were you going to give them the "if you hurt her" speech?" I teased.
"Yes, actually, I was," she glared.
Standing, I wrapped my arms around Lena's neck. "I'm first in line to marry a Luthor when you're ready."
"You are, huh?" Lena teased, letting her hands rest on my hips.
"I already found the perfect ring," I grinned. Blood drained from the younger woman's face. "I found it by accident. When I was looking at a necklace for our friendaversary, it came up as frequently bought together."
"Aaah. That makes sense." Cupping my face, Lena caressed my cheek with her thumb. "I'm not ready to be engaged or married yet, but I am ready to be off the single circuit."
Leaning onto the warm touch, I hummed. "In that case, Lena Luthor, will you go out with me?"
"I would love to," Lena smiled.
Dipping my head, I kissed the brunette tenderly. Smiling onto it, I pulled the shorter woman against me. Maybe some Earth rituals or customs aren't so bad.