Chapter Text
Snapper never asked for her presence. He never asked for anyone's presence, in fact. Everyone came to him. Even James, the acting CEO of CatCo, fell into this category. Part of Kara suspected that Snapper would, at the bare minimum, request for Cat's presence if she was here. Only because she had a Pulitzer with her name on it, the same as him. That coupled their history together at the Daily Planet would probably make Cat someone Snapper would deem to ask for.
This was a very unshakable part of Kara's reality when existing in Snapper's bullpen. Snapper didn't ask for you, you asked for Snapper, and he in turn, barely tolerated the interaction enough to give you some sharp and highly invaluable feedback. Which was why Snapper's booming voice shouting out her ever present nickname of Ponytail was a bit off putting for Kara. Enough that she was subjected to hearing it shouted again and was met with a severe glare when she finally arrived at his desk.
She was greeted with silence for several moments, Snapper glaring as he assessed her. "You studied science, right?" he questioned gruffly. "I remember seeing that in your resume when Grant forced you onto me."
"Physics and Astrophysics, yes," said Kara, frowning at his words. She thought she had begun to prove herself to Snapper and he didn't resent her as much. Apparently she was wrong.
"Astrophysics," Snapper echoed, his glare intensifying. "What school?"
"Bludhaven Institute of Technology," replied Kara, fidgeting with her hands and wondering what this was about.
It was strange to be talking to someone about this aspect of her life. Kara had gotten used to brushing off the topic of her education in order to fit in. After all, it isn’t a very ordinary human thing to enter college at fifteen and finish your PhD four years later. In fact, that probably wasn’t normal for extraordinary humans. At the beginning she attempted to slow down her work productivity but that left her alone with her thoughts. Something she wasn’t overly fond of in those teenage years as they often turned brooding with thoughts of Krypton and everything she had lost. Which is why she occupied her time with endless classes and lectures in an attempt to keep her mind off of it. And that soon resulted in her completing the required credits far ahead of schedule, leading to her early college graduation.
Studying Journalism had been driven by Kara’s need to be close to Clark. To share something in common with him other than their genetic makeup. Kara had desperately longed for family back then. To be perfectly honest, she still did, but instead of finding it with the person who shared her DNA she found it with those who shared her passions and hardships. The ones who were always there for her. People like Alex, Winn, James, J’onn, Cat, and now Lena.
It was difficult to be so alien. Unable to instinctively know and understand the culture around her. There was a quiet and constant stress in always being identified as the other. Something that wasn’t right, something that just didn’t quite fit in, and by the time she graduated Bludhaven Tech she was exhausted by it. Certainly things had been easier at B.I.T., studying among people who shared her interests. Who had been treated in some small way as she had but she was still painfully different, clearly the other.
Going to Boothman and taking up Journalism was partly because of Clark and her desire to be normal. There was no way she could ever succeed completely in the latter but Krypton didn’t have something like the media. They had artisans, of course, painters and writers, who saw the beauty in the world around them. However, they didn’t document and report on their lives as the humans did. Not so public and never as eloquent. It was staid and by the rote and kept in the historical archives of planet.
Quite frankly, they didn’t have newspapers and there were certainly no journalists. Kara had no base of understanding on the subject. It was the opposite of science and math where her education on Krypton placed her far ahead of her human compatriots. She had to actively work to catch up to her peers in Journalism school. Then she took the job at CatCo and working for Cat Grant had her scrambling on a daily basis. It made her feel almost human. Which, for Kara, was a reason to always adore her former boss.
When no immediate response came from Snapper and he just kept staring, Kara shifted on her feet and wondered how someone other than Cat Grant could make her this anxious. "I also studied Mathematics there as well. That and Physics were my undergraduate degrees. Astrophysics was my PhD. Then I decided to study Journalism at Boothman..." Kara trailed off, seeing the unspoken question in his eyes, and fiddled with her glasses then offered, "I graduated high school early."
"Clearly," said Snapper in droll tones. "You're full of surprises. At least that's what I'd say if I hadn't recalled half of that on my own. Anyway," he snorted, shaking his head. "The Trib is down their science and technology reporter. I'm volunteering you as tribute."
"What?" said Kara, blinking at him.
"They need reporter, you studied science, they need words, you write," said Snapper slowly. He waved his hands at her dismissively. "Go see Beth Miller downstairs. She's their Editor In Chief." Kara didn't move, causing Snapper to look up from his work and heave an exaggerated sigh of pure annoyance. "You’re not banished to the Netherworld. It's just a temp assignment. Unless things work out for you there."
Unable to stop herself, Kara said, "I know you never wanted me here. It's not like you tried to keep it a secret. I thought I was starting to prove myself to you though."
"Ponytail," said Snapper with utmost exhaustion. "This isn't me trying to pawn you off on Miller, I promise. They honestly need help. There's that big conference coming up for some Academy--"
"It’s the National City Academy for Science and Technology, " Kara interrupted, flushing when he scowled at her. "Sorry."
"Yeah, that, and they don't have anyone who'd understand half of what those guys are saying. I remembered parts of your resume and thought you'd be a good fit," said Snapper. She knew he was being honest, she could see it, but part of Kara still couldn't help but feel he was trying to get rid of her. Just like he wanted to in the beginning. Snapper must have sensed this because he continued, "I didn't want you here at the start but you've gotten better. A lot better. I spent time and effort to help you improve so why would I do all that just to send you away? And you know I hate giving compliments so that's all you're getting out of me."
Accepting this as the truth, Kara nodded and started to leave only to have Snapper call out her name. Her first name for once. Shocked at this, she turned to face him with wide eyes.
"You'll always have a place in my bullpen but maybe you should consider putting all of your interests to work." Kara tilted her head in confusion and Snapper went on, "If you studied all that junk, there must have been something about it that appealed to you. Especially if you went and got a PhD in it. Maybe writing about that sort of thing would be a good way to bring all of that knowledge together." He shrugged and looked at his pile of articles, sifting through them as he finished, "Just a thought."
Considering his words, Kara realized that despite all appearances he must have put some genuine thought into this assignment for her. And what he was saying wasn’t necessarily wrong either. She had just never entertained the possibility of writing about purely scientific news. "Thanks, Snapper," said Kara with a smile, truly meaning it.
"Yeah, yeah," Snapper waved her off, not looking up from his work. "Go see Miller already."
---
Precisely three days later Kara found herself wearing a press badge, in eager attendance at the conference. Snapper’s gruff but encouraging advice had stuck with her and Kara was starting to warm to the idea of it. Science and math had always been a comfort to Kara. When she first landed it was the one of the few things she could recognize, quite clearly, that Earth had in common with Krypton. At first it was a challenge, trying to work with the ancient formulas and theories Earth still operated with but with Kalex’s help, she quickly adjusted. Thriving in their study just as she had back on Krypton and feeling strangely at home upon recognizing familiar concepts.
No matter how hard she tried, it was difficult to adapt to the way human teenagers socialized as opposed to how she was raised. There was a casualness to their interactions that escaped her, leaving her to feel embarrassed and awkward at her all too obvious mistakes. She felt utterly lost and alone when she arrived. The baby she was meant to care for was suddenly a grown man and he didn’t need her protection. Nor did he seem to want her or any connection to his home planet and its cultural traditions. It tore at Kara in a way she couldn’t properly explain to have family so close but so seemingly far. Kal-El somehow had everything in common with her and nothing at the same time.
Kal-El wasn’t a true son of Krypton. He knew nothing of its culture and its people. He didn't even want Kara to call him by the name granted to him by his birth parents. Preferring the one gifted to him by his Earth family. The struggles their people experienced, the barbarism of their past, and the foolish arrogance of their future was all foreign to him. Just like Kara. To her it was as if he had no attachment to her or his home planet and when he left her with the Danvers she was despondent.
Slowly but surely, Alex brought her out of that depression. Their relationship was rocky at first but after Jeremiah’s disappearance they came to rely on one another. They became sisters in every sense of the word. Until that happened though, Kara’s only comfort was found in things that were familiar. That reminded her of home. Math and science being highest among them. They were logic and they were truth, unwavering in their application. Science didn’t care how she spoke funny and didn’t understand certain phrases. And her social awkwardness and strange lilt in her voice didn’t matter when she silently solved calculus problems on the chalkboard. Only her mind did.
It was exhilarating to be at the conference, to suddenly have that feeling back in her life after being without it for several years. In a way, it was almost like being back on Krypton, when she would sneak into the Science Guild meetings to listen to her father and uncle discuss their theories. Nodding her head and taking a deep breath, Kara pulled up the conference schedule, quickly deciding the first presentation she had to see was Silas Stone's on his recent advancements in robotics. She was particularly curious about the rapidly expanding field of limb replacement, which found much of his research being applied. His work was helping veterans or people born without limbs reform lost or nonexistent nerve connections with the aid of his robotic limbs. They had something similar on Krypton but it had been applied differently depending on the person. Genetic abnormalities were weeded out by the birthing matrix but accidents did happen. If someone in the Military Guild needed a new limb, they were often given one that was enhanced, improving their speed and strength as to better serve Krypton. However, if it was a citizen of one of the other guilds, it matched their natural capabilities.
Kara was aware of the military's investment in Silas' work. Which is why she asked, "Are these limbs meant for the replacement or enhancement of their subjects?"
Silas was startled at her question and stared at her for a long moment. "No one has ever asked me that before," he confessed, rubbing his chin. He removed his small wire rim glasses and wiped them on his shirt and he murmured, "I intended them for replacement. To give these men and women back what they had lost. Certainly though, given what materials are used, the limbs could be seen as far superior than what they were born with. In that way, it could be seen as an enhancement of sorts."
"A form of evolution," offered Kara, thinking back to what Krypton's scientists had thought about the matter.
"Yes," Silas mused and he wondered aloud, "I suppose there is the potential for it to go the way of the latest phone. If they become common place then people could possibly grow to think nothing of upgrading their bodies in such a manner."
They continued to talk about the ethics of it. If this was another form of human evolution and what that could mean. As they chatted, Kara inquired about the software Silas used to stimulate the nerve endings as she was truly fascinated by it and as he elaborated, she couldn't help but remark on the ways it could be improved, to speed up the natural motor functions and he silently considered it before musing that her idea was feasible.
It was at this point that Kara realized she was going to be late to see Ted Kord speak about Kord Industries latest projects. She shook Silas' hand, thanking him for his time before dashing down the hall. Not realizing she'd inadvertently helped him solve one of his primary defects.
While Silas Stone was somber and serious, often being altogether intimidating, Ted Kord was warm and gregarious. He was full of charm and anecdotes, resulting in audience laughter and applause as he went through his company's plans for the future. The most surprising of which was the revelation it was his goal, or his gift to humanity as he called it, to provide high speed and affordable internet for all. Saying that his ultimate goal was to make it free to everyone. Ted spoke about how he would go about it one building at a time, giving access at a group price to the poorest among us. Claiming this would be accomplished by beaming the internet through powerful central antennas rather than cumbersome fiber optic cables which prevented true competition from arising. Allowing the cable companies to dominate and keeping any significant changes to arise. After all, why learn to provide faster and cheaper access if they don't have to? Ted said his technology would finally force a change in the telecom industry.
All of this was fascinating, especially how Ted was presenting himself and his company, as almost philanthropic in this endeavor. It made Kara insanely curious and she desperately wanted to know more. Unfortunately, by the time she made it to Ted after his lecture, he was swarmed with people and they were all discussing the very recent launch of his driverless car and the implications of it. Kara was drawn into the conversation, speaking about the jobs this could possibly cost in the future. At the same time, he had also revealed the creation of a high speed rail system that he planned to install, state by state, with each Governor and state legislature's approval.
The first of which would begin construction in Illinois. Pressing forward, Kara cut into the conversation and asked, "Is this your way of giving something back while simultaneously taking something away?" Ted froze at this and Kara continued, "The jobs you could create with this train line could possibly equal the ones it would take from the trucking industry with your self driving car."
"I'm glad someone noticed that," Ted clucked, wagging his finger at people gathered around him. "Progress is vital but we shouldn't forget the human equation. We can't automate so quickly we leave our people behind, rushing to catch up, and in dire need of jobs. If I'm going to do something that takes jobs away I want to at least attempt to do something else to create them. It's the least I should do, isn't it?"
"There's a nice balance to it," Kara remarked, smiling at him, genuinely liking how Ted Kord's mind worked.
"Exactly!" boomed Ted, clapping his hands and laughing. "Equality and balance, those are good things, people!"
Their conversation continued for quite some time, long enough that Kara finally got a chance to ask him about his telecom plans. Particularly about the range and the power of the antenna he was planning to install instead of the fiber optic cables. They weren't able to go into much detail though, as he was soon approached by his assistant and was being pulled away. Not before Kara was handed his business card and flashed an utterly charming smile as he told her he wanted to discuss this further. Saying with a crooked grin it isn't often people care so much about his antennas. Kara flushed at this but tucked the card in her pocket, hoping she'd get the chance to talk with him again.
The next presentation Kara planned on attending was Emil Hamilton's, whom she knew Clark often conferred with, and he was speaking about genetics. There was a lull in time before that began and she ended up at the back of a lecture hall, listening to Lucius Fox speak about the latest ventures for Wayne Enterprises. It wasn't anything like Kord Industries though. Most it seemed purely military inventions and frankly, it bored Kara to pieces. She wandered aimlessly, until she came upon the prominent Astrophysicist Fateena Shurrab's lecture on the exoplanets her Aerospace Center had recently found with the aid of several new probes. Listening to her speak about space and the environments of these newly discovered planets gave Kara a strange sense of peace. It was similar to what would happen on Krypton whenever they'd make a new planetary finding and they debated the benefits of exploration or introduction if there were any planetary inhabitants.
It was things like this, the feeling of belonging it granted her, that made Kara study the stars.
When Fateena finished speaking, Kara made her way over, eager to discuss her findings. Their discussion went into the readings from the probe about the atmosphere of the largest of the planets and Kara couldn't help but question the method for atmospheric detection. Immediately suggesting a more simplistic version of what they used on Krypton when they sent out planetary explorers. Fateena blinked at her feedback and quickly asked Kara about the manner for application, creating a small crowd around the women as they discussed ways to improve the data collection of the probe.
"I'm most curious to find out about B1-294's rate of atmospheric evaporation," Fateena revealed, gesturing excitedly and causing her silver bracelets to move almost musically into one another. "How close it rotates to its sun makes B1 a much larger target for high energy radiation, causing more evaporation. I cannot imagine how quickly it's bleeding out despite the fact it has an extended atmosphere."
"Well," Kara scrunched her nose and considered the size of the planet the proximity to its star. "Given the heat and its size, maybe 100 million kilograms a second?" She shrugged and adjusted her glasses nervously when Fateena looked at her with amazement. "I'm hazarding a guess though, given the information on hand."
"Ms. Danvers," said Fateena thoughtfully. "Do you know a Professor Javid Lanjwani?"
"He was my advisor!" exclaimed Kara happily, thinking of the rotund and easily excitable man. "I love him! Is he working on this with you?"
"Yes," Fateena smiled brilliantly. "He's the one speculating B1 could have planet wide auroras due to the extensive stellar radiation hitting the planet."
"It must look beautiful," Kara sighed wistfully, thinking of similar worlds she'd seen in Krypton's planetary database. She was about to remark on another way of detecting information with the probe when she noticed it was time for Emil Hamilton's lecture. "I'm so sorry, Professor, I have to get going," said Kara apologetically, honestly wishing she could stay to discuss more. "Thank you so much for your time, it was a privilege speaking with you!"
"The pleasure was all mine," called Fateena after Kara, shaking her head and reminding herself to call her colleague to say she'd run into a former student of his.
Upon reaching Hamilton's lecture, she felt herself studying him the way Clark did with Lena. With an increasing suspicion and a certain dread of what could be. While Lena had proved herself trustworthy time and time again, Kara hardly felt the same about Hamilton. She was disturbed by the way that Hamilton discussed alien and metahuman DNA. It wasn't with the clinical detachment she had grown to accept from scientists but instead something almost resentful, as if he wanted to find out what humanity could take from these people and then toss them away. Kara's instincts told her that Hamilton probably didn't consider them people at all and she wondered if he was truly the ally Clark thought he was. It seemed to her that Hamilton most likely viewed Clark as nothing more than a source for his research.
That was why Kara walked towards him, quickly and with utmost determination as he left the stage. Trying her hardest to be polite but nonetheless practically interrogating Hamilton about his thoughts on aliens and metahumans. Do they have a place in our society? What are their benefits and flaws? Does he see the aliens as invaders and the metahumans as just some strange genetic offshoot? Finally, as she saw Hamilton at his most nervous, Kara asked him bluntly, "Are they a threat to humanity?"
"Certainly I could see them that way," said Hamilton, blinking rapidly and seeming taken aback by her line of questioning. Up until this point he had given the most politically sensitive answers but Kara hadn't let up and it was clearly getting to him. "They have abilities far beyond humanity and as far as I can tell, no one to police them. I would say it gives the alien and metahuman population a distinct advantage."
"Is that at the core of your genetic research? The belief they are a threat to be contained?" Kara questioned, her gaze narrowing.
Realizing the corner he had backed himself into, Hamilton blanched and quickly excused himself, disappearing into the crowd. Kara watched him and promised herself she would speak to Alex about Hamilton later. Too much of what he said reminded her of Cadmus and their ideologies. She didn't want someone like that near her family.
At the end of the day came the most important presentation. Or at least the one that Kara looked forward to the most. Lena took the stage to speak about the future of L Corp. She went into their devotion to renewable energy including the advancement of their geothermal system, which was almost ready for a full testing phase. The lighter and more durable solar panels were revealed, as well as the new uses for them, one of which included replacing the current road system, theoretically enabling the panels to power entire cities once they were put into action. There was also the reveal of their new generator, smaller but far more durable, and capable of converting two times the amount of electricity from the waves of the ocean. Lena finished the presentation with a flashy video announcing L Corp's plan to create an entirely solar powered passenger plane, capable of transporting two hundred people. At this, there was a frenzy of activity and Lena was swarmed and Kara stood back, watching and waiting.
Soon enough, Jess cleared the crowd and Lena was headed her way, a knowing gleam in her green eyes.
"You've got them worked up," said Kara, nodding to the crowd, still hanging about, futilely hoping to get more out of Lena.
"Go big or go home, Kara," Lena replied wisely. Jess murmured something about an upcoming meeting, Lena nodded and then her assistant was off. Leaving them relatively alone. As if sensing the possibility of the encroaching observers, Lena hooked her arm in Kara's and led them away. "I would say I'm surprised to see you here if I hadn't already heard all about you." Kara blinked at this, lost as to what Lena was talking about. "You've been making quite the splash, I'm afraid. I haven't seen this many scientists say nice things about a member of the press in a very long time. Usually they're bemoaning plebeians who don't understand the significance of their work. Instead they're gushing about this adorable blonde reporter who gave them this idea or that insight. You've charmed them all thoroughly. Professor Shurrab was particularly impressed with your input on the rate of B1-294's atmospheric evaporation." Kara grinned at this, rocking back on her heels. "I was told you sent Professor Hamilton running? I was surprised to hear that as it doesn't sound like you. Then again, he's insufferably arrogant so good for you if it's true."
Blushing darkly, Kara ducked her head and murmured, "I was just trying to do my job."
"Is that so," Lena considered, when Kara looked up, she was biting her lip in that all too alluring manner she had. "Kara," Lena said her name, a hint of hesitation in her voice. "There's going to be a private party tonight. A little get together for all the featured guests. Would you come?"
"I don't know," said Kara slowly, thinking of her Supergirl duties.
"Please say yes, I'd love to spend more time with you," Lena entreated, her green eyes beguiling. That look really should be registered as a weapon, Kara thought wryly. Unable to resist she agreed, nodding her head, causing Lena to give her a blinding smile, hugging her quickly and enveloping Kara with the scent of her perfume. "I'll text you the details! You'll enjoy yourself, I know you will. Be warned, scientists are notorious for hard drinking."
"I can hold my alcohol," said Kara in droll tones, thinking of the time Alex had decided to experiment with her limits in college. Apparently she started to get tipsy somewhere around the fifteenth bottle of vodka. Though the effect hardly lasted an hour at the longest and gave her no sign of a hangover. It made Alex very bitter at the time.
"Can you?" Lena replied teasingly, regarding Kara with pleasure. "Now you've made me curious."
In response, Kara averted her gaze and tried to ignore the heat on her cheeks that told her she was blushing yet again. She always had this reaction around Lena. Part of her thought maybe it would get easier the more time they spent together. That she'd somehow become immune to Lena's charms or at least stop embarrassing herself as much. So far though, she wasn't having any luck. Not that Lena minded. She appeared to delight in Kara's reactions. Which was the only solace Kara got out of the situation.
Because seeing Lena Luthor happy was one of the things Kara liked best.
---
The party started sometime after ten o'clock and Kara wandered into the bar the Academy had rented out for the night with a bit of trepidation. She got in with no problems, most likely because of Lena, but part of Kara wondered if she truly belonged here. This was a gathering locale, much like the Science Guild had been back on Krypton, and she hadn't earned her place. She knew it was strange to think of it that way. After all, this was a bar, not a great hall of science long revered and attended throughout the ages. But it served a similar purpose and she couldn't help but feel like an intruder. Much like she had when she was a child and she had snuck in to spy on her father's meetings. Except this time she was an adult and she could actually feel awkward about it, instead of experiencing excitement over being somewhere she shouldn't.
This feeling lasted all of three minutes because that was how long it took for Lena to find her.
"Kara!" Lena called out exuberantly, her smile glittering in its beauty.
The moment Lena approached, Kara felt herself relax without really knowing why. There was just this sense of ease she felt with Lena that reminded her slightly of Alex. Only slightly because she never obsessed on her sister's smile or how nice she smelled or how pretty she was. In fact, just the thought of doing that with Alex was a bit disturbing. But the feeling that she could be herself without being judged, that had been there almost from the very start with Lena. She wasn't sure why that was, Kara was just grateful for it. So often she felt like she was being evaluated on multiple levels by various people. Whether it be as Supergirl, Kara Danvers, or Kara Zor-El and usually it seemed no matter what she did she couldn't measure up. Alex and Lena were among the few that always made her feel otherwise. That she was good enough, that she was worth something, that she could somehow live up to the memory of her extinct civilization.
"Lena," Kara sighed, returning the smile and sinking into her touch. "How are you?"
"Wonderful now that you're here," said Lena warmly and sometimes Kara swore Lena made a game out of making her blush. It certainly seemed that way. She inclined her head towards the bar and questioned, "Would you like to get a drink? It's an open bar. Quite dangerous with this crowd, I assure you."
"That would be great," Kara remarked, following after Lena. At the bar, she ordered a whiskey sour. Lena raised an eyebrow at this and Kara shrugged, knowing she didn't fit the image, whatever that meant, of someone who would enjoy that sort of cocktail. "I like the taste," she confessed.
The experiment with Alex had turned her off vodka, after having drunk so much of it all at once but she was quite fond of distilled spirits like whiskey and rum. There was something about the strength of their taste that reminded her of the celebratory drinks they would have on Krypton. The kind that Astra snuck her a sip of when she turned twelve to make her feel like an adult. Although she always told Alex it was because rum made her feel like a pirate. Something that usually earned her an eye roll.
"A woman after my own heart," said Lena playfully, ordering a sazerac for herself.
Taking a long drink of her whiskey sour, Kara leaned against the bar and looked around the room. All while feeling Lena's far too captivating gaze burning into her. Giving into temptation, Kara turned to face Lena and asked, "What did you mean earlier? When you said you heard all about me?"
"You must realize, it isn't usual to have the press understand the intricacies of what is spoken about at these conferences," said Lena almost carefully, running her finger around the rim of her glass. "You were a great surprise because of the insight you offered on so many subjects. I admit," Lena continued as she wore a wry smile, "I was taken aback at first. I wasn't aware you had so many areas of expertise. You haven't spoken to me in depth about L Corp's projects so..."
"That's because I've always been more interested in you than the company," said Kara plainly. Upon hearing this Lena whipped her head up and looked at her with a wide and disbelieving stare. It was almost too much for Kara to handle because how couldn’t Lena know that by now? That Kara couldn't care less about L Corp and the Luthors. For her it was about Lena and their friendship and all the good things Lena wanted to accomplish. Everything else was secondary. "You're what matters to me, Lena. You've always been what matters. I never cared about L Corp. No offense," Kara added this with a mischievous grin and a little shrug of her shoulders.
"None taken," said Lena, exhaling in laughter, her green eyes shining. Her gaze averted for a minute and she appeared to be gathering herself, biting down on her lip for a second before focusing back on Kara. "I would like to know how you came to be so knowledgeable. Certainly I could look into it myself but I much rather hear it from you."
"Talking is what friends do, not googling each other," agreed Kara wisely.
"Precisely!" Lena laughed. "You will tell me won't you?"
"I have four degrees," Kara revealed, placing her drink down on the bar and adjusting her glasses nervously. "I graduated high school when I was fifteen and was accepted to Bludhaven Tech where I double majored in Mathematics and Physics for my undergrad,” Kara revealed. “I also have a PhD in Astrophysics."
"You were at Bludhaven?" asked Lena breathlessly. "But--"
"We were in different programs and I was a really shy kid," said Kara easily and she couldn't help but find some degree of entertainment in seeing Lena off kilter for once. "There wasn't a lot of chances for us to run into each other unfortunately." She paused to consider it. What her life would've been like if she had met Lena back then. If they had become friends when she was younger. Maybe she wouldn't have gone onto study at Boothman and would've stayed on the science track. "I wish we would've met when we were both there though. I would've liked the chance to get to know you sooner."
"And I as well," said Lena, sounding astonished. "I can't believe we went to the same university. I must've graduated two years after you got there."
"I think so," Kara agreed with a nod.
"If you don't mind me asking, how did you come to be employed at CatCo?" questioned Lena, looking thoroughly intrigued.
There were so many things she could say but nothing entirely truthful unless she went into her complex relationship with Clark. Studying at Boothman had to do with Kara wanting to bond with Clark and her own reticence about working in the field of science with her wealth of Kryptonian knowledge. She wondered if it was correct, using her alien education and experience to potentially influence the scientific development of mankind through her research. It was troubling and complex to consider. At the age of nineteen she wasn't eager to get into these kind of ethical quandaries. Which was why she applied to Boothman rather than confront the issue head on. It was an attempt to get Clark's attention by following in his footsteps and to perhaps understand him better that led to her enrollment in their Journalism program. Though she came to appreciate her time at Boothman she spent the first few months longing for her lab at B.I.T.
Science and math were a comfort, while journalism and writing were a distinct challenge.
"I've always had diverse interests, I guess," confessed Kara, taking a long drink of her whiskey sour. "I wound up at Boothman, studying Journalism. A few years later I moved to National City to be closer to my sister and got a job working for Cat Grant. The rest is history."
Lena considered her carefully, a thoughtful expression on her features as she processed everything Kara said. The curiosity was more than evident on her features and Kara knew her answer hadn’t satisfied Lena. However, she must have seen the reluctance on Kara’s features and instead of inquiring further, she wore a tender smile.
“To diverse interests then,” Lena drawled, lifting her glass for a toast. Making Kara laugh quietly and return her smile. “I’m just pleased to discover we share something else in common. I’ve always enjoyed the time we’ve spent together but I've avoided speaking about the more technical aspects of my work. Frankly,” said Lena wryly, looking almost ashamed of herself. “I thought it would bore you. I suppose today has proven me wrong. Something I can’t help but feel grateful to realize.”
Kara started to reply but she was interrupted by Ted Kord boisterously calling Lena’s name. He was in front of them in seconds, flashing a smile and looking first confused then pleased to see Kara at Lena’s side. “Kara Danvers from the Tribune,” Ted exclaimed. Pointing his index finger at her, Ted arched an eyebrow humorously. “You aren’t here for a interview are you? Because I’m afraid all of our words about to get very slurred.”
“I invited her Ted,” said Lena with fond exasperation. “We’re friends.”
“Friends,” Ted echoed, looking from one woman to the other with fascination until Lena rolled her eyes and smacked him on the shoulder. He laughed and turned to face Kara with attentive eyes. “I’m glad you’re here! I wanted to speak to you some more about your feedback on our upcoming ISP launch.”
Blinking at this, Kara looked over to Lena, feeling hesitant. This evening, for her, had been about spending time with Lena more than anything else. She didn’t plan on talking with Ted or any of the other speakers beyond passing conversations. Kara was still debating about what to do when Lena bumped into her playfully, her expression open and encouraging as she said, “Go on then. I’d like to hear your thoughts as well.”
That was enough for Kara and she focused back on Ted while simultaneously gravitating towards the warmth of Lena’s body. Resting against Lena and sinking into her touch when she felt Lena's hand on the small of her back. "You should focus on creating small high powered antennas that are easy to install. This would help a lot with providing the coverage building by building like you want," Kara began, she paused before continuing, her brow furrowing in thought. "What is your target demographic again?"
"Low income to start," said Ted eagerly. "I want to concentrate on people who can't afford this kind of internet access. The building residents would be offered a group rate that is lowered the more people sign up. I think that would help to spread the word and make our success more organic."
"That would work well," Kara agreed, considering how fast the word would probably spread in neighborhoods. "You can begin smaller and then build up as you go along. First by buildings, then neighborhoods, until eventually you have the entire city."
Ted laughed happily and pointed at Kara, wagging his finger and grinning. "Yes! Exactly what I want to hear!"
Soon they began speaking about the range and power of the antenna currently being designed. Lena jumping into the conversation to give her own engineering expertise. As their discussion about Ted’s ISP startup began to wind down, they were joined by Silas Stone.
"Ms. Danvers," Silas pronounced her name with a rather weighty gravitas as he joined them. "Tell me," he said slowly, looking at her with an utterly solemn gaze, "what is your opinion about the evolution of mankind through the aid of technology? Are my robotic limbs truly an advancement in human biology? And," Silas paused, nodding at Kara and lifting up his glass of scotch, "do you believe they could alter the course of humanity's natural evolution?"
Blinking at this, Kara was dumbfounded by his questions. It was in this moment that Lena murmured in her ear, "I'll get you another drink, darling. You're going to need it."
Laughing at this, she watched Lena leave before returning her attention to Silas. Kara thought back to the various debates they had on Krypton about similar subjects. The winning logic had been one that wasn’t for the concept of creating a slippery slope where Kryptonians enhanced themselves out of some strange trend. They didn’t want to change their people, only to help them. Which is why soldiers didn’t have the technology immediately implemented. It was only used when absolute necessary to allow them to continue in their duties. If that was what they wished. Kara adjusted the Kryptonian reasoning to apply to what Silas asked in order to give her response.
"Silas," Lena drawled as she returned, handing Kara her whiskey sour and possessing another sazerac for herself. "Don't you have any concerns about these limbs of yours being hacked? Certainly in their current state it would be next to impossible but as technology improves it is a possibility. I read of your theory about using microchips to fix neural diseases like Alzheimers. What would that mean if they could be hacked? The hacker could have access to their brain... motor functions... even their memories."
Everyone paused to consider this very worrying thought. One that made Silas muse on the wisdom of some areas of his work.
As the night went on, more and more scientists joined their group. Drinks and discussion flowed easily and for Kara it was a loving reminder of Krypton and her family. Kryptonian culture as a whole encouraged engaging in passionate debates and they enthralled Kara from a very young age. It was something she missed painfully. The sense of community, of belonging to something greater than herself. Certainly she had that at the DEO but it was lacking from her professional life. At least until now.
It struck her that math and science truly were universal languages. She had traveled from the ashes of a distant world, raised in a totally alien and advanced culture, but from the start those two things she could always relate to here on Earth. The methods and applications were different but the essence of the subjects were the same. There was a uniting power in that, something beautiful and significant, and Kara said as much as the evening wore down. Making everyone around her reflect on this with happy smiles and Lena looked utterly charmed by Kara's statement.
Soon enough everyone was going their separate ways as the bar prepared to shut down and Kara got an Uber for Lena. Insistent on making sure that Lena got home safely. Upon hearing this and seeing the determined set of Kara’s jaw, Lena formed a slow smile and she raised her hand, brushing her fingertips against the line of her jaw.
“My hero,” said Lena wistfully. Swallowing hard, Kara did her best to ignore the blush she knew was rising up her neck and guided Lena into the car. Quickly confirming the address and her identity with the driver. More than a bit tipsy, Lena fell against Kara, causing Kara to wrap her arm around Lena’s shoulders to keep her steady. Lena sighed happily and snuggled in closer and said with some surprise, “You remembered my address after just one visit?”
She was red as a tomato. Kara was positive of it. All the same, she faced Lena and replied sheepishly, “I tend to remember things when they’re about you.”
“You say the sweetest things,” Lena murmured, focusing on Kara with a slightly bleary gaze. She bit her lip, her brow furrowing as she concentrated on their hands, so close to one another on the seat of the car. Kara followed her gaze and smiled softly, lacing their fingers together and Lena lifted her head up in surprise. “I like you so very much, Kara, really I do,” she confessed quietly.
“I like you too, Lena,” Kara replied, squeezing her hand and pulling Lena in closer, sighing as she rested her head on Kara's shoulder. Giving into temptation, Kara lifted her hand to play with the stray hairs at the nape of Lena’s neck that escaped her bun.
“Everyone adores you now, you do realize that?” remarked Lena sleepily. “I’ve never seen scientists so quick to hand out their personal information to a reporter.” Kara didn’t know what to say to this, so she didn’t say anything at all and continued in her gentle caress, shrugging when Lena focused on her. Lena chuckled at Kara’s silent response and shifted closer, leaving hardly an inch between them. “I’m glad,” she breathed, smiling up at Kara sweetly. “More people should see you as I do.” Lena reached up, clasping onto Kara’s jacket, pulling slightly on its lapels. Her grip emphasizing the strength of her words. “You aren’t appreciated for who you are nearly enough, Kara.”
“Lena,” Kara whispered, her eyes becoming watery, laughing through the tears as Lena reached up to wipe away the few that began to fall. Her voice low and soothing as she gathered Kara up in a hug.
Their embrace was interrupted by the subtle cough of the Uber driver before he announced they had arrived. Apologizing profusely, Kara helped Lena out of the car and into her apartment building. Greeting the doorman on the way in and leading Lena into the elevator.
“I didn’t mean to make you cry,” said Lena quietly, looking at Kara, her green eyes wide and honest. “I was telling the truth as I see it. You're a marvelous person, Kara, and it seems to me more of the people around you should acknowledge this.”
“I know you meant it, Lena,” Kara murmured, giving a wry smile, feeling herself beginning to tear up again. “That’s why I was crying.” Studying the fine details of Lena’s features, Kara cupped the line of her jaw, smiling when Lena leaned into her touch. "Sometimes when I'm happy I cry," Kara revealed, her tone slightly teasing, enjoying this slower side to Lena's normally whipsmart cognitive processes. It was kind of cute how alcohol slowed Lena's brilliant mind down enough to allow for moments of consternation. "It's a thing."
The elevator door opened before Lena could reply and Kara tugged Lena forward, guiding her towards the penthouse. There was an absurd amount of elegance to how Lena sifted through her purse for her keys. It reminded Kara of Cat and how she was so effortlessly powerful in her elegant control. Lena had that same air about her and Kara found it impossibly attractive. Retrieving her keys, Lena unlocked her door but Kara remained in the hall, causing Lena to pause and tilt her head in observation.
"This is where we say good night then," said Lena, sounding rather disappointed.
"It's not for long," said Kara cheerfully, grabbing Lena's hand and squeezing it affectionately.
"No," said Lena slowly, staring at their linked hands, "I should hope not."
Observing Lena's somber expression, Kara was drawn by an instant desire to quash it. She hated Lena looking that way and she rapidly searched for anything she could do to correct it. "Have dinner with me tomorrow?" asked Kara quickly, reddening when Lena gazed at her with those oh so bright and interested eyes.
"Of course," Lena drawled and an altogether dangerous smirk played on her lips.
"Seven o'clock?" asked Kara nervously, wanting to fidget with her hands but being unable as one was currently holding onto Lena.
"That sounds lovely, Kara," said Lena smoothly and Kara nodded jerkily, disentangling their fingers and stepping backwards. Lena's hand rested on the doorframe and she smiled sweet and sincere as she said, "I'm so very glad you joined me tonight."
"Me too," Kara squeaked, her hands in full fidget mode as it was finally allowed. Stepping backwards again, she exclaimed, "Good night. Sleep tight!"
"Good night, Kara," Lena's rich tone washed over her along with a low chuckle as the penthouse door shut. Leaving a blushing Kara alone in the hallway wondering exactly when she would be able to react like a somewhat normal person around this woman. Part of her thought it might never happen.
And somehow, Kara was perfectly fine with that.