A Whole New Ambition
She took the stairs this time, walking up each metallic and concrete step. Her vacation relaxed aching muscles, but her stomach churned at the idea of meeting Po again. Logically, she knew that he wouldn't ask her to fill the CEO position. Especially after her scene at the company party. She dusted her black pencil skirt and muted green blouse.
Would he notice?
Tigress shook her head. "Why do I care? I wore this because it's new and I wanted it."
Why she needed to tell herself this was anyone's guess, but as she made it to her floor, her eyes bulged out. The sea of cubicles was in a frenzy. People darted left and right, trying to get stuff done while talking in loud shock voices like a much quieter Stock Exchange room. This was the loudest it had been. She walked on, noticing slight smiles on the people's faces.
Just then, she got a text from Song. Is everything alright at Zainan?
Tigress narrowed her eyes. Why do you ask?
Before she could see her friend's reply, Viper and Mei Mei found her halfway between the sea of cubicles and her desk. "Tigress! Where have you been?" Viper called.
"What's going on?"
"You didn't hear the news!" Mei Mei exclaimed. "Where have you been, under a rock?"
"I've been on an emergency vacation," Tigress remarked. "And I turned off my notifications. Now what's going on?"
"Oogway is the new chair of Zainan Inc. And Shen and Kai have stepped down as board members," Viper explained. "Well... Shen stepped down, Kai had to be thrown out and is now serving jail time. Something about money problems."
Tigress' head launched up and honed in on Po's door. "Excuse me for a moment." She blasted past the two and quickly placed her belongings on the desk, saying, "I'll ask you for more information, but right now, I have some stuff to do."
"Why?"
"Because if this happened, that means I have a lot of work to catch up on."
Mei Mei rolled her eyes while Viper shook her head with a smile. "Is work all you think about?" The bear asked.
"You know me," Tigress smirked. She watched the two leave and only then did she bolt for Po's door and knock.
"Come in." She quickly shut the door behind her and saw Po putting some stuff into a box. "Ah, Tigress. How is-"
"What did you do!"
Po jumped a bit. "Wh-What do you mean?"
"I'm away for three days and you managed to make Oogway chairman and Shen step down?! And what's this about Kai and money troubles?"
"Ah... well... Turns out Shen had a lot of help from Kai and didn't know it. A lot of the money was under Kai's name as well and when Shen put the money back, he essentially made Kai a prime target for Peng to go after. And the whole mess with Mr. Ping's culinary school didn't help."
"I thought... I thought," Tigress took a pause and breath. "I thought you were leaving."
"Well... I am."
"I figured from our talk at the party. But I didn't think you would leave this place better than when you came."
"Heh, you know me. Always trying my best."
"I know," She smirked.
"But that whole 'leaving everything better than it was' thing was a little unintentional," Po chuckled nervously.
Amazed, Tigress shook her head and smiled. "I can't even begin to understand how you managed to do all of this."
"I had help from everyone, especially you," Po smiled back.
A moment of silence passed. A clock's ticking could be heard from the assortment of items in Po's box. The handmade art that Tigress had come to admire was taken down and laid on the panda's desk. She would miss it.
Tigress shut her eyes and sighed, "Po, I... Are you going to give me your position? Because I don't want the position. While a pay increase would be nice, I simply can't. I... I realize that my success is much different from what I thought it was. I thought it meant getting this position and making more money to make sure my daughter was well cared for. But looking at you and your struggles made me realize that I would have given up some of the freedoms I enjoy now." She took a beat. "I just want to do my best, but I also want to have as much time with my daughter as I can. She's only little for a little while."
Po stared at her, slowly nodding with a small smile. "Well, I'm glad you told me that. I think you're already successful, Tigress. And if I'm being honest, I wasn't going to give you the job. This position is stressful. Waaaayyy too stressful," Po chuckled, "And I'm pretty sure Lei Lei wouldn't like you taking on more work just to throw more money at her. Kids love people. Not things."
"Thank you for understanding," Tigress smiled but tilted her head. "So... who's going to take the CEO position?"
"I was thinking of talking with Monkey. He's more organized than you think. And Mantis already agreed to be the new secretary," Po's smile went straight out the window when Tigress's hardened face heard the end of that sentence. She glared powerfully, nearly flashing her sharp teeth.
"Wait, you're firing me?"
"What?! No, no, no, no. Tigress, I'm not stupid," Po answered. "I presented my plan to the board and they said that... since Kai and Shen are both gone, you would be a perfect person for the board."
"Wh-What?"
"The board wants you to be a member. It's much less stressful, the pay is much higher, and since Oogway wanted his term to be temporary, he suggested that you might become the permanent chairman... or woman. I don't know how that works, but-"
"I... I don't believe this."
"Tigress?" The tiger said nothing. Po rounded his desk and walked up to her. "Tigress, are you-"
"THANK YOU!" She screamed, launched herself into Po's arms, and kissed him. The panda's wide eyes stayed stuck until the tiger abruptly pulled away. She covered her mouth, having melon-wide eyes. "I'm... I'm so sorry! I... I didn't mean to-"
"No, no, no that's okay," Po said with a shaky smile of his. "I'm just... Uhhh... it's okay. I just hope that your boyfriend is okay with that. Don't worry, I won't tell. Not that I would since I don't know him."
As she removed her hand, Tigress's shy smile finally showed. "Actually... we... broke up."
Po perked up his ears, "Oh, I'm so sorry."
"And yet you have a little smile in your voice," Tigress smirked.
"What? No! I just uhh..." The sounds of the tiger's melodious chuckle made the panda smile sheepishly.
"So, what will you do now that you're not the CEO? Will you go back to your old job?"
"No, I'm getting the job I always wanted," Po smiled grandly. "Video game developer."
The tiger's face fell. "I'm sorry what?"
"Yeah, I actually have a degree in developing software with a minor in business relations."
"How... why... Okay," Tigress groaned in confusion.
Po smiled gently as he leaned against his desk. "I am going to miss this place, though. Lots of memories. Especially with you. Forgetting how we met, I liked the time we had together. You really helped me out through this whole thing. And for that, I'll forever be in your debt."
"I'm sure you've made up that debt for me in droves, Po," Tigress smiled. "You've helped me see my tunnel vision, and I... I thank you for helping me see my flaws. You've helped me see that there's more the life than just work."
"Don't mention it," Po said. They smiled at each other, neither one willing to break their gaze at the other. Po made an awkward cough that Tigress could only chuckle at. "I think we should get back to work. You know, since the whole company is undergoing a massive redirection in... leadership and all."
"Hmm, where have we seen this before?" Tigress grinned. Po scratched the back of his head with a nervous chuckle. The tiger began walking out. A nervous thought was in the air. In the back of her head, she knew she couldn't expect him to know what was going through her head. What she wanted. But she could feel the panda intently staring at the back of her. She bit her lip. Would he do it? Would he go for it? Before she reached the handle of the door, Po spoke up,
"Tigress, wait!"
"Yes, Po?"
"Um... Um I... uh..." He swallowed hard and took a breath, "Since your new job is going to offer more free time and since we're... transitioning right now, uh... I was wondering if you wanted to eat out... with me. Kind of like a celebration. The place I went to with Du Ai was pretty nice, forgetting the intense parts."
The feline's eyes broadened as she crossed her arms. "Are you sure you'll be able to pay for it? Game developers don't make that much money."
"Yeah, but I've been saving ever since I got this job, so I wanted to splurge a bit."
"Why?" She asked softly, "Why now?"
Po made a loud sigh, meekly saying, "I... don't want to miss my shot this time."
Tigress smiled, "I would love that. Of course, Lei Lei-"
"Actually, Ayi was asking if she could help you with Lei Lei. If that's alright with you. I know it's weird, but she's been asking about Lei Lei a lot and-"
"I think that would be fine. I'm sure my father and his wife would like the company babysitting Lei Lei," Tigress replied.
"Heh, seems like you're finally getting that village you wanted."
Tigress smiled wider, "In more ways than one.
The night came much sooner than either of them expected.
The panda took deep slow breaths. He slid back in his chair and stared up at the massive chandelier bathing the restaurant in a lovely ambiance. Straightening the black tie, he swallowed hard and glanced around the neat white table for anything out of place. He took another breath. "It's okay, Po. It's okay. Just... keep calm. It's just dinner. Nothing else. Just... dinner. Geez, I can't believe this is happening. I just... wow. I can't believe this is happening."
"Hello, is this seat taken?" Po looked straight ahead and found a beautiful tiger with light makeup matching her stunning red dress. Po's jaw dropped and he only picked it up when he heard the tiger's giggling. "I take it that you like the outfit?"
"It's amazing," Po smiled. He stood up and pulled her seat open for her. "Here."
"Oh a gentleman? Are you like that all the time?"
"When I'm not dealing with a stubborn yak," Po joked as he took his seat. The silky red fabric clung nicely to her shapely body while thigh slits showed her long legs. The panda shook his head slightly, bracing a smile. "It's uhh... good to see you."
Tigress smiled, "You don't have to be nervous, Po."
"I know, but I don't have a say in the matter," The panda chuckled. A slender gazelle waiter came up and took their orders.
Po still held his nervous smile that Tigress couldn't help but grin at.
"What?"
"Nothing, it's just... you're honestly adorable when you're nervous. It's cute," Tigress gently simpered.
"Heh, I am a panda after all."
"I'm not talking about that. You specifically. And I assure you that Lei Lei is cute in a different way than you are."
"Right, right," Po sighed out of unknown relief.
"So... how long have you had this on your mind?"
"What?"
"This dinner. I could tell that you've wanted this for a while. I just don't know how long."
Po darted his eyes left and right but finally hung his head slightly in defeat. "A while."
"Before Lee and I were dating?"
"I knew to keep my distance and try to move on."
"And now here I am."
"That wasn't my plan."
"I know," Tigress smiled.
"I... have to ask. Why did you and him break up? He sounded like the perfect guy."
She gave a long sigh, "I... we didn't want each other for the right reasons. I wanted someone who could be a part of my 'village' for Lei Lei, not someone to be with forever. I could've gotten what I wanted just by being friends with him. He was... agreeable in every other respect but... there wasn't any real... love there. Every time I saw myself with him, I saw a friend. I found myself trying to force a feeling that I didn't have for him. I know that love isn't about feelings but... still." The tiger raised her head and quirked her eyebrows up. "Did I make the wrong choice?"
Po squinted his eyes a bit. "You're testing me."
"A bit. But I do want your honesty."
"Hm," Po sighed, "I'm obviously biased, but if I'm trying to be fair... probably not? Feelings come and go. But more importantly, you shouldn't be in a relationship ONLY for what the other person can provide for you. You should be with them for... them. Personalities, worldviews, characteristics, stuff they do, stuff they don't do. It shouldn't just be ONE thing and ONE thing only. I mean... by everything you said, he's your guy. What did he not have?"
Tigress took a deep breath. "He... wasn't you."
Po blinked. "Oh... wait... I don't understand."
"When I talked about my ideal date to Song, I realized that I was describing you. And Lee is a great person by all standards, but he's not the same as you."
"So being nervous, geeky, silly, and quirky isn't universally the same?"
Tigress smiled, "No. Not the way you do it, anyway. I can't really explain it."
"No, I get it. And you shouldn't have to force yourself to feel some kind of way. Love is a feeling but also a decision, and an action. One that shouldn't demand you to go against your values."
The tiger's smile widened. "You're very wise."
"Experienced," Po smiled warmly as their food came. As they ate, Po noticed the tiger's smile still plastered onto her face. "I have to say," He said as they finished their food, "You've been really relaxed recently."
"I could say the same for you. You're definitely more patient and courageous."
Rubbing the back of his head, Po chucked, "Yeah. With everything that's been happening at work, I'm feeling a lot braver than before. As much as I hated this job, I'm glad that I'm doing much better... thanks to you."
"I don't think I was solely the reason for that."
"Still, thank you," Po smiled, "Did you tell your family the news about your position?"
"Yes, my father is glad that I'll have some more time to myself. And Lei Lei's excited to spend more time with me. Heh, we'll see if that lasts when she's a teenager."
"Eee, don't remind me. I try my best to forget that part of my life," Po chuckled while Tigress smiled.
"Song was glad though she has some... reservations about me being with Lei Lei too much."
"What do you mean?"
"Lei Lei has apparently picked up some of my traits."
"Anger issues?"
"I don't have anger issues," Tigress grunted.
Po's face fell. "Wow, I didn't think you could lie with such a straight face."
The tiger rolled her eyes. "Anyway, no. She means my... work ethic? I mean, Lei Lei's in first grade but Song says that maybe taking Lei Lei to work isn't a good idea. I don't know why she says that."
Earlier at Lei Lei's school
"Matt! I need five cups of Play-Doh, stat!"
"Yes, Ms. Lei Lei."
"Kim, where is that report on playtime?"
"On the way, Ms. Lei Lei."
"Good, and where's my juice?"
"Got it!" Said a small wolf boy. Song simply rubbed her muzzle and deeply sighed as she watched the small panda busily directing the entire class in a game of 'office work' that Lei Lei created. Song didn't know what the goal was, but the young panda had the whole class running around like a literal tiny boss.
"I don't get paid enough for this," Song muttered.
Back to the present
Po smiled, "It seems like you're getting everything you ever wanted. A village to take care of Lei Lei, a higher paying successful job, and... uh what else did you want?"
"Someone to share it with."
"Oh! Uhhh heh, heh," The bear blushed as she reached across the table and held his hand.
"And... I would love to share it with you, Po." Tigress smiled at the panda's goofy grin. "I think we're done with food."
"Heh, waiter!"
After paying for the food, the two walked to their cars. "I liked the dinner, Po."
"I'm glad."
"Although-"
"Uh oh."
Tigress rolled her eyes with a smirk, "I would've been fine with a fast food place."
"Really?" he said doubtfully.
"Of course, why wouldn't I?"
"I just thought that most women didn't... want a cheap place on the first date. Wait, this is a date, right?"
Tigress's face fell. "I don't know, is it?"
"Hey, just wanted to be clear. Communication is key, remember?"
She shook her head. "It is a date, and I'm okay with regular stuff, Po. There's nothing bad about eating cheaper food. I'm not worried about my status as much as some people."
"Ah, so you're okay with eating with the peasants?" Po laughed, "It's okay. I guess I'm just-"
"Used to Du Ai?" Tigress guessed. Po looked up, expecting to see a face of judgment, but she simply smiled. "I'm not like that Po. You should know that."
Sighing, the panda gently grabbed her hand. "I do now. Thank you for being there for me, Tigress. I know I couldn't have made it this far without you and... I know that doing half the things you did wasn't in your job description, but I really appreciate it."
Tigress smiled warmly and placed a hand on the panda's cheek. "Caring for you will always be in my job description."
"Oooh, I like that line. I have to remember that," Po said.
Tigress smiled wider. She glanced between her car and his. "You know, it's still somewhat early. Is it okay if... we go to your apartment right now?"
Po's eyes widened. "A-Are you sure? What about Lei Lei? You know how Boss Lei Lei is."
Tigress simpered, "I don't think she'll mind." The tiger pressed her lips to Po's. Po shut his eyes, feeling her soft lips on him. Her sweet honey-like perfume entered his nose. She wrapped her arms around his neck while his arms found their way around her waist. Tigress smiled internally. He was much more huggable than she thought. His fur and jacket were soft, though she hoped that she didn't get his jacket dirty with her makeup. His arms snuggly wrapped around her, letting her feel the loving warmth of his body. And his heart. They withdrew only slightly. Just enough to see each other's face. Regardless of what color their eyes were, the two knew they would love looking at each other for a while.
"I think we can schedule an appointment to my apartment," Po smiled. Tigress gave a half-suppressed laugh.
Time flew between that moment and the next morning. Tigress found herself trying to sneak into her house. She accidentally stayed over at Po's apartment all night. She had fallen asleep on his chest while they were still in their formal attire. A smile crept onto the tiger's face at the memory. She tiptoed into her house and closed the door behind her.
"And where were you, young ma'am? You're late," Lei Lei said. Tigress spun her head around and found Shifu and Lei Lei in office chairs like tiny supervillains waiting for the protagonist to enter.
"Lei Lei, what are you doing up early?" Tigress asked.
"That's irreverrant!" Lei Lei said, meaning irrelevant, "Where were you?"
"That's none of your business," Tigress said firmly.
"But it is mine," Shifu said.
The tiger sighed, "I was just having dinner."
"For 8 hours?"
"I went to his apartment to talk."
"Is that what it's called now," Shifu smirked.
"We didn't do anything!"
"And who were you with?" Lei Lei asked.
"Mr. Po and it was just a little talk and... Wait, why am I telling you this?!" Tigress exclaimed.
"Because you're late for our playtime," the panda said fussily. "I won't allow this behavior to happen, young ma'am."
As much as Tigress tried to be upset, she couldn't help but chuckle a bit as she rubbed her face. "Okay, now I understand what Song was talking about."
Continued...