Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was a mid-summer Friday night, the weather forecaster announced on the news that there would be a blue sky and another warm weekend ahead. Kara jumped off the couch almost immediately after hearing the report and made plans while munching on French fries, followed closely by a playful Labrador retriever as she paced the living room of the apartment she has been sharing with Lena for the past three years:

"First of all, breakfast is very important. I will make chocolate chip pancakes. Second, we will go to the dog park with Krypto. He will definitively love a day out and playing with others. Third, we can have lunch on our way to Alex’s place and at night, we can just cuddle and watch a movie.”

Kara said proudly and Lena, even though she was planning to stay in the whole weekend, didn’t even attempt to dissuade her. Kara was already excited for the day ahead and her vibrant emotion made Krypto jump with her, so she did what she always does: she grabbed the fluffy dog’s ear and played with him, while making silly voices.

Lena couldn’t do or say anything but allow herself to be embraced to the very core of her existence by Kara’s goddamn sunny smile. She simply hugged the cushion tightly and smiled at the scene in front of her.

After many laughs and some “Kara please don’t” when she decided to test if Krypto was afraid of flying, and “Krypto no!” when he jumped into Kara’s arms to fly again; they finally made it to bed. It was a long week for both, so Lena was happy to finally be able to share a moment of peace and quiet with her fiancé.

Next day, the woman in her bed hugged her warmly as the sun barely broke the National City skyline. The day was supposed to be clear and warm. She woke up with Kara's soft kisses on her shoulder. She opened her eyes and smiled knowing the blonde was about to move her hand to Lena’s waist and pull her closer. The young Luthor felt the joy of the moment and turned to face the woman.

- Hey. – she whispered while contemplating Kara’s blue eyes.

- Hey. – Kara murmured, leaning in for a kiss. A kiss that turned into something more when Kara’s hand moved from Lena’s waist to be under her Star Wars T-shirt, pulling her weight on top of the raven-haired woman.

Evidently, breakfast was not the first important thing for the day.

At around 9am the bedroom door opened, and Kara stepped out, greeting Krypto and walking to the kitchen to feed him. Everything was going exactly as planned. They had breakfast together, talking about their week, Alex’s latest dating disasters and getting ready to go to the dog park. But at around 11:30am, Kara’s D.E.O. cellphone rang.

- No, no, no… - she said pouting a little. Lena was kneeling next to Krypto caressing his face and holding the leash in her hand when she heard the phone. She watched her girlfriend walk to the table where she’d left it the night before.

- You should answer, you know they won’t stop calling. Krypto and I can go to the park and then wait for you here. – she said while looking up at Kara.

- They said they would cover for me this weekend. - the blonde replied. A sad smile crossed Kara’s face when answering the phone. She didn’t even say anything. Using her super speed, she changed into the suit and walked to Lena, who was now standing holding Krypto by the leash.

- This was supposed to be a nice day. – Kara added while placing her hands on Lena’s hips, bringing her closer.

- I know, darling. – Lena said, resting the palm of her hand on top of the El’s crest. - But we can still make it. Now go and save the world. – she added, sealing her words with a soft kiss.

Kara grinned and walked to the balcony, attempting to wink, but failing spectacularly. Then it was just a blur of red and blue. The young Luthor smiled, put the cellphone in the back pocket of her jeans and turned her attention to Krypto.

- Ready to go? -

In response, he wagged his tail happily. Then she decided against taking the cellphone with her.

The park was a couple blocks from Lena’s apartment, it was the size of a junior league baseball field, but it wasn’t crowded. There were some benches and picnic tables around the field near the tree line. There were some families with their pups and some loners like her. She walked around the field with Krypto, until she found a good spot for both.

- Now, be a good boy, stay. – she said while kneeling in front of him to remove the leash. Usually, this part always ended with Lena under the retriever’s paws and her face being licked constantly by their dog. That’s why Kara was the one usually doing this instead of her.

This time he obeyed.

Although she tried to be mentally present for her four-legged friend, she kept thinking about Supergirl. While playing catch with Krypto she saw the news helicopter fly over the park on its way to the bay area, probably to report whatever had happened that required Kara’s attention.

Krypto was having a great time at the park, not just playing with Lena but also socializing with other dogs, especially a dalmatian. This could have been a good way to help her anxiety but instead she found herself wanting to go back to her apartment and check on the news, so she grabbed the leash and called Krypto, but he ignored her. She had to walk and almost run after him. It was the dalmatian’s owner who was able to hold Krypto by the harness he was wearing so Lena could put the leash on.

She thanked him and walked back home as fast as she could, kind of surprised that Krypto was as eager as her to go back to the apartment.

As soon as she walked into her place, Lena turned on the tv. She didn’t even sit on the couch when the first thing she saw was the image of Supergirl being held by the neck and beaten up by this humanoid creature.  She clutched the remote in her hand watching her attempt to escape and keep the monster out of the city’s most populated areas. Lena sees the blonde throw a kick that forces the alien to release his grip on the super, then the Kryptonian throws punch after punch until the creature falls back.

She couldn’t help but wonder if Kara had been fighting all this time or if she was able to stop at the D.E.O. first. Supergirl looked tired.

The news helicopter was reporting live the fight between Supergirl and the creature that was leaving a trace of destruction and fire behind him. Her intention to keep the fight close to the National City dock was evident. She uses her heat vision and the alien groans in pain, its response is to throw the closest vehicle against the resident hero, who couldn’t avoid the impact and the force sent her through the walls of two warehouses behind her.

“It’s a direct hit! Supergirl is down.” The reporter in the helicopter screams. The image shows the blonde laying on the concrete. At that point, the alien walks towards her, grabs her by the suit and punches her several times. Luthor feels like her own bones crack in sympathy.

- Get up love… – Lena whispers, holding the remote with all her strength while trying to get her phone without taking her eyes off the screen. Krypto drops a toy at Lena’s feet and whimpers.

With some relief she sees Martian Manhunter appear on the screen and fight the alien away from Supergirl. This means that Alex is there too and with her, the D.E.O.’s tactical team. The cameraman seems to read Lena’s mind to keep the frame on the hero.

- She’s moving! – the reporter says.

Lena exhales the breath she’d been holding since the vehicle knocked into the blonde. She sees Supergirl sit up on the floor, shaking her head in confusion, dust falling from her perfect golden hair. Then she looks at Martian Manhunter and frowns, but she’s faster than the camera since all Lena can see is a blur. According to the reporter, Supergirl grabbed the alien “by what looks like its jacket’s lapels” and flew with him… up, up, and away.

The news keeps reporting live, the camera shows images of the sky, following the sounds of impact and the traces of heat vision through the clouds. It’s after a couple minutes that Lena sees the blurry image of Supergirl holding the rogue alien by the jacket, using her heat vision against him while falling directly to National City Bay.

Lena’s knees bend and just as Supergirl is falling screaming and using her full heat vision against her opponent, Lena falls into the armchair behind her before Krypto’s somewhat sad look.

Luthor was not mistaken. When Martian Manhunter showed up was because the team was already in the dock area, so when a semiconscious Supergirl fell into the water, they rushed into the boats to contain the alien and take care of the Super’s wellbeing.

It didn’t take too much time for Lena to speed drive to the D.E.O. in her car. When she arrived and rushed inside the building, Alex approached her with a warm smile.

- I was about to call you… – she says crossing her arms in front of her chest, knowing by now that Lena hated the phone calls related to Supergirl and that she always “Nascar her way” to the D.E.O. – How many speeding tickets am I supposed to remove now? – she continues.

- I skipped only a couple of red lights. How is she? – she replies, green eyes fighting the tears.

Alex proceeds to inform her that Kara was already under the sun lamps. She confirmed what she already knew, that Supergirl used the solar flare to defeat the alien, so she would be powerless for a couple of weeks. Lena breathes again, like someone who has been underwater for too long. The older sister notes this and decides to come closer and repeats “Supergirl is fine”, Lena nods, so Alex walks with her to the med bay.

They walk side by side in silence and then Lena remembers that she has been standing in this same spot before, in front of these glass doors, watching the woman she loves unconscious in that same damn bed. Sometimes she feels that she hates this place. Her physical response was to close her hands into fists and clench her jaw.

She knew that dating National City’s resident hero wouldn’t be easy, the S.O.S. calls at any time of the day or night, the rogue aliens, etc... The opponents were sometimes stronger, faster, or with abilities that represented a risk to the super’s life; but she loved Kara and she wanted to be by her side, even though this part was not becoming any easier as time went by.

- Are you coming? – Alex said interrupting her thoughts. Lena sighed and followed her until she was by Kara’s side. – I must fill out some paperwork, I’ll be next door. – the agent continues.

- Okay...- was the only thing that Lena could answer.

The raven-haired woman took Kara’s hand softly while fighting the urge to cry.

- Hello, love. As you know I took Krypto to the dog park; I think he has a girlfriend or boyfriend. I’m not quite sure, but it’s a dalmatian. - she said smiling a little, while caressing Kara’s hand - They were running around together the whole time and when I called him, he refused to leave the other dog. – she continues with surprise by the disobedience. – I had to tell him there would be no more treats for him. It almost worked, who would have guessed that I can use food against him too? – she said softly with a smirk.

Lena kept talking to Kara about the day so far, holding her hand with such care, like if she held it too tight it would break like a dry leaf. She must have fallen asleep holding her fiancé’s hand because when she opened her eyes, she found Kara’s beautiful blue orbs looking at her.

- You’re awake! – Lena said and jumped from the chair to hug her. She felt Kara hug her back with one arm. – How do you feel? – she asked, reaching for the blonde’s cheek when Alex walked into the room with a tablet in her hands.

- Glad to have you back! – she stated, looking at her sister.

Kara looked at Alex and then at Lena.

- I’m sorry, are you new here? – she asked Lena.

The green-eyed woman wiped her tears and smiled softly.

- If you come up with a cheesy line right now, I swear to you Kara… – Lena said, holding her hand between her own.

The blonde woman shook her head a little and returned the smile with uncertainty.

- Alex, is she new? – she asked, looking at her sister confused.

Lena looked at Alex immediately, who approached her sister’s bed to examine her vitals while turning on the clip lamp to check on her sister’s response to the light.

- What’s the last thing you remember?

- It’s a little bit foggy… a fight, I think. Then water… I’m not sure.

- Do you know the woman next to you?

Kara turned to Lena, fixed her eyes on the hands of the woman that was holding hers and then gave her a sad look.

- No… I’m sorry but I don’t know… -

Lena was sure that something broke atomic and sub-atomically within her in the precise moment the blonde said “No”. Then she slowly removed her hands from Kara’s and took a step back, but as soon as she did, she saw the cerulean blue fixed on her. The blonde felt something moving in her chest. Something she couldn’t pinpoint yet.

What followed was a series of tests Alex insisted on performing to find out why Kara was not remembering the woman she’s loved for years. But because of the additional questioning, they realized that she also forgot she was now a reporter at Catco, not an assistant. After the fight, Kara’s memories were all mixed up, but Alex explained to Lena that the memory loss might be the result of a head injury, so her recommendation was to wait.

While they were finishing some additional testing, Lena stepped out of the med bay, but Kara followed her with her gaze, intrigued.

- You know, she’s Lena Luthor, your girlfriend… – Alex mentioned to Kara, completing some forms on her evaluation while Lena was at the vending machine across the hall.

From her spot on the bed, Kara looked at her sister and then at the woman outside the room.

- Luthor, I know the name. I should be shocked or believe it’s a twisted joke, but for some reason I know her, I feel the familiarity of her touch. But I can’t remember her… I wish I could. – she said, bringing her hands to her face at the end.

- Hey, it’s okay. – Alex said reaching for her sister’s hands - You were punched really hard, it takes time. Just be patient. –

After taking note of her sister’s blood pressure again, Alex brought Kara some clothes she kept in her locker and gave her some privacy so she could take off the super suit. She found Lena sitting on the little sofa next to the vending machine.

- I always get her these cookies and a grape soda. But then I realized that it might be weird if I gave it to her. –

- I can do that for you. I told her who you are. She’ll be fine. – Lena kept her gaze fixed on the purple can of soda in her hands.

- Is that the doctor in you or do you really believe that she will be fine? – Luthor asked.

- I have made all the possible questions and tests. Her CT scan looks good. The questions… well, as she mentioned some memories are mixed up or foggy. She’s tired and needs to rest. I will need an MRI, but we’ll do that first thing tomorrow morning. – Alex replied sitting next to Lena.

Lena looked at her intensely, handing her the soda and cookies without breaking eye contact. The agent felt that Luthor steel cutting to the very center of her being as she took the goods from Lena’s hands.

- She’s my life, Alex. –

- I know. – she murmured.

When Alex returned to the room, Kara had already changed into black sweatpants, a gray NCU t-shirt and white sneakers.

- Here… it’s from Lena. – Alex said, giving her the soda and cookies.

- Where is she? – Kara asked.

- Do you want me to call her in? – the agent asked while sitting in front of her sister. Kara hesitated for a moment, but there was a part of her that really wanted to see Lena.

- Yes, please.

Lena didn’t know at first how to act, so she opted to bring the Luthor persona when following the agent back to the room. Alex gave them some space to talk by closing the door as soon as Lena was inside. The green-eyed woman sat in the armchair next to the bed and watched Kara devour the cookies and soda.

- Would you like me to get you another soda? – she dared to ask, breaking the silence between them. Kara looked at her and smiled softly.

- No, I’m fine, although something tells me that at other times, I’ve been stuffing my face with at least 3 sodas and 5 packs of cookies. – she replied putting the can between her knees. Lena smiled.

- Six sodas and at least ten packs of cookies. – she stated. Kara looked at her surprised.

- So, Alex tells me you’re my girlfriend… - she mentioned timidly. Lena shifted in her seat.

- Would you like to talk about it? – she asked, trying not to overwhelm the blonde with too much information at once.

- I think so, maybe a little. What about when we first met? I recall a tall building, white walls, something red and a lot of flowers … I think that’s it for now. – she said sounding a little sad at the end of her words.

- I think that’s one of my favorite memories of you. – Lena said softly.

She proceeds to tell her the story about how they met, taking special care to rearrange the little that Kara remembered in her own story so that it would be easier for her to join the fragments in her memory. She mentions a little of her brother’s actions that sunk Luthor Corp until she stepped into the C.E.O. role.

Kara was listening to her with undivided attention, but against her will she started to yawn.

- You’re tired. It’s been a long day, and you need to rest. – Lena points out.

- No, please, tell me more. – Kara says, fixing her posture.

- I think both of you need to rest. – says Alex from the door.

Then, there was an uncomfortable discussion between Alex and Lena about where Kara should go for the night and the rest of her recovery. Alex stated that it would be recommended for Kara to be around people who can make her feel relaxed and that she should come with her. Lena, on the other hand, pulled the girlfriend card and how important it was in cases like this to be in their own place and trying to get slowly back into their previous routine.

Unsure about what to do and trying not to hurt Alex or Lena’s feelings even more, Kara decided to stay at the D.E.O. Green eyes met brown and stared for a while.

- Regarding the MRI, at what time is it scheduled? – she asks.

- 7 am. – Alex replied.

- I’ll be here. Have a good rest, dar... Kara. – she said without waiting for an answer.

Kara frowned a little bit, murmuring a sad “good night” barely audible for Alex.

That night Lena got home completely drained and when she opened the door, Krypto barked twice. She just left her shoes and bag by the door, walked barefoot to the bar and poured herself a glass of whiskey. Krypto walked after her but returned to the apartment door and barked again.

- She’s not coming. – she murmured, drinking the liquor in one gulp. He lay down next to the door and whimpered.

She drank two more glasses of whiskey before falling asleep on the couch in front of the TV, not wanting to walk into the bedroom where almost 24 hours ago Kara had made her come on her hand and repeated how much she loved her, covering her body with kisses.

Krypto jumped on the couch and carefully laid down next to her, licking her closest hand. Lena locked eyes with the dog but surrendered to his charm, so the golden retriever moved a little closer and she started rubbing his head.

- This is a one-time thing, okay? I’ll take you to her tomorrow. Now we sleep. – she murmured with her voice a little hoarse from crying.

With the precision of a Swiss watch and Krypto’s collaboration, Lena was at the D.E.O. at 6:50am with some glazed donuts and coffee for the agents on duty. She also carried a latte with extra foam, sprinkled with cinnamon and fried sugar pastries from Noonan’s for Kara.

- Did you sleep well? – Alex asked, while motioning two agents to help with the boxes of donuts and the trays of coffee.

- Hardly. – she stated while walking with the agent, holding one tray herself. – Krypto, stay. – she commanded while crossing the agency’s threshold, and the dog obeyed.

- Damn Luthor, impressive. Can you train a couple of agents for me? – Alex said.

- I don’t know what’s with him, he never listens but he has been a good boy. – she replied, offering a black coffee to the agent.

- Thank you. Come, we’re about to start the scan. – Alex motioned Lena to go along with her.

Lena called Krypto to follow her, which he surprisingly did in utter silence. Maybe because the whole place was new to him, including the different aromas that reached his super sensitive nose, he remained at Lena’s feet while waiting.

Alex called her as soon as the M.R.I. results were available. Usually, it might take a week to obtain the outcome, but thanks to alien tech, they just waited around 2-3 hours. Lena asked Krypto to wait outside, then she walked into Kara’s room with the agent, who explained to them that there was a mild traumatic brain injury. No treatment was required other than rest, and if Kara had headaches, due to her Kryptonian nature she would need to let them know, but while her powers returned, she could have some painkillers to treat them. Kara and Lena nodded.

- It’s a matter of time. Meanwhile, Supergirl is out. Even if you get your powers back, you need to stay on the bench for a while, just to make sure. – Alex said to Kara but looking at Lena, who muttered a“Thank you” to the agent.

- I see. Well, that’s fine, I guess. – Kara said, a little bit down. Lena noticed and decided this was the best time for introductions.

- I brought someone who was dying to see you. – she mentioned, walking to the door and allowing him to enter. – This is Krypto, our dog. -

- I have a dog! – was the first thing Kara exclaimed when Lena introduced him. Alex rolled her eyes and watched how her sister almost threw herself at the dog, who was excitedly wagging his tail and barking at the blonde.

After almost 30 minutes of playing with Krypto, she turned to Lena with a look full of curiosity.

- You said, “Our dog” and his name is Krypto? – the dog walked over to Lena.

- We adopted him after living together for a year. We decided Krypto was a suitable name based on who you are. – the green-eyed woman replied, patting his back.

- Do you remember the adoption, Kara? – Alex asked.

- I don’t think so. – she said while sitting on the floor. – Would you please tell me? – she asked, addressing Lena.

- What about if we get out of these concrete walls and go to a dog park, I can tell you then. Alex can come of course. – Lena replied, considering that her fiancé needed some fresh air and time out of the D.E.O. and all its beeping machines.

Kara turned to Alex, who seemed to consider the same factors that Lena thought of and agreed on the condition that they get some food on the way. The blonde grinned excitedly and played with Krypto’s ears as always.

Alex decided it would be more comfortable if they took her SUV instead of Lena’s sports car, since they would need to stop to get food and drinks for their afternoon. Alex handled the liquor and Lena the food, while Kara and Krypto waited for them in the car.

When they managed to arrive at the park, Kara and Krypto ran to the field and started playing catch, while Lena and Alex set the food and drinks at the picnic table.

- I would like her to stay at the D.E.O. for a week at least, to see if everything remains the same or if there are some new symptoms. – Alex mentioned, pulling a beer from the case she purchased.

- I can keep an eye on her and inform you as well. – Lena replied, focused on organizing the plates and getting the food out of the restaurant’s bags. The agent nodded, watching her sister run after Krypto and tripping over her own feet but happy when the retriever threw himself on top of her and licked her face.

- I’m aware of that but… – she said, seating on the bench on her side of the table.

- But you’re not asking or recommending. – Lena interjected, completing her phrase while looking at the agent from her standing position on the other side.

- I’m not asking or recommending. – Alex repeated. Then she sighed. – I’m sorry, I know how hard this must be on you. Is there anything I can do to help you? –

- It is hard, but I will take care of myself, just remove the speeding tickets please and that will be enough. – Lena answered a little more harshly than she intended.

Alex took a sip of her beer, turning her attention to her sister who was now playing with other dogs. Lena placed both hands on the table and sighed. The agent turned to look at her.

- Please Alex, her memory is foggy, but I know her heart remembers me. – she said in a tone that the agent was completely sure was the softest and most vulnerable tone of voice she had ever heard from a Luthor.

The older sister stood up and walked to Lena’s side, put an arm around her shoulders and brought her close. In the distance, Kara threw a ball and smiled widely looking at Krypto and two other dogs running after the small orange sphere. She turned her attention to her human companions and saw Lena, so she walked to them.

- Is everything okay? – a soft voice asked them from behind. Alex turned, finding her sister’s blue eyes looking between Lena and the agent.

- Everything is fine. – Lena answered, clearing her throat and wiping some rebel tears from her cheeks. – Are you hungry? – she asked, smiling at Kara.

Kara knew she wasn’t being totally honest with her but let it slide because she suspected the reason behind the tears was her. Her not being able to remember Lena, their time together, their dates and inside jokes. She forced a smile and accepted the belly burger with two orders of French fries. Krypto ran with the ball in his mouth, he was thirsty.

Lena shared the details of the adoption with Kara over their meal. It was a Saturday morning when the young Luthor finally said yes to the idea. The shelter where they found him closed after a couple of months and moved to another location. He was the only pup available, and she explained that although Kara was willing to adopt an older dog, Krypto was showing all his charm when she stopped at his cage. Alex snorted.

- Shhh! It’s a baby story! – Kara said looking at her sister, but instead of saying anything else, Alex decided to take a sip of her beer.

Kara was touched by the story, but also by Lena’s voice and how her intonation changed depending on the emotions of the moment. She could see why she fell in love with her, she was beautiful and her eyes… the thought “I could lose myself in those eyes” crossed her mind. She shook her head as a smile involuntarily appeared on her lips.

By the end of the day, the ride back to the D.E.O. was silent, just the radio playing an old Bon Jovi song. When they arrived, Kara was yawning, and Krypto seemed to want to go home as much as Lena. Alex asked Kara to wait for her inside so she could check oxygen levels and blood pressure again.

- Thank you for introducing me to Krypto and telling me about his adoption. I really appreciate it. – Kara said and although something screamed at her to hug the woman, she held back and grinned instead.

- My pleasure. – Lena replied with a smirk.

Alex cleared her throat to get Lena’s attention while playing with the car keys. The black-haired woman turned to meet the agent’s eyes, full of understanding.

- I will keep her a week at the D.E.O. just to keep checking on her and making some arrangements so she can talk to someone, a therapist, or any other specialist. Then we can see what happens and where she wants to go. –

- Thank you, Alex. – she said, reaching for the agent’s hand and squeezing it. – Let’s go home. – she murmured to the dog next to her.

After that Sunday, Lena did the impossible to balance her duties as C.E.O. of LCorp, developing a new project with a Japanese partner; taking Krypto with her to work and at the same time visiting Kara every day.

- You look tired, Lena. – said Jess one afternoon, when said woman was gathering her things to leave.

- I know, I know… - she said with a deep sigh. – Krypto, time to go. – she added with a weak smile for her assistant.

Winn and Brainy were normally with the blonde when she got to the D.E.O. Their afternoon conversations used to be about parts of their relationship, the young Luthor always trying to provide as many details as possible. She usually found herself smiling at the retelling of her memories. Kara always looked at her with undivided attention and sometimes this confused the raven-haired woman or made her blush. She was glad that she decided to bring Krypto with her so she could turn her attention to him to hide the redness spreading through her cheeks. Kara loved to sit with Krypto on the floor, the bond between them was apparently unbreakable.

By Thursday, Winn intercepted Lena when she was walking into the agency with Krypto.

- Hi Lena! I have some news; Alex is not around so she entrusted me with the responsibility of sharing it with you. – he said almost too fast for her to catch it.

- Oh, hi Winn! Sure, tell me. -

- We found a therapist for Kara. It’s someone that has experience working with heroes and she’s highly recommended by Batman. It’s Black Canary. – Winn explained a little too enthusiastically while gesturing and looking between Krypto and Lena.

- That’s great! – she said. He smiled and nodded.

- Alex will talk to Kara about this when she returns. – he added while Lena was already walking away.

Lena was also trying to find a specialist for Kara, but if the Gotham cat-lover wanted Dinah to talk with Supergirl, she would be open minded about it. She stopped at the door to the cafeteria, where they usually sat, allowing Krypto to walk in first. She heard the excitement in Kara’s voice when she saw the dog. When Lena walked in, she saw Brainy attempting to pet Krypto, or as he called him “canis lupus familiaris”. The Luthor heir put a leather bag on the armchair. Kara looked at her curiously.

Brainy stayed with them, Lena liked it when he had the time to stay, the way he was able to provide facts about the retelling of their story provided Kara more details about what their lives together used to be. By the end of her visit, Lena looked at Kara whose gaze was fixed on the handbag.

- Alex mentioned that you needed some clothes. – Lena said. Kara turned to her.

- Thank you, I could have sent an agent or gone personally. – she murmured.

- Nonsense, I was coming to check on you anyways. Krypto, time to go. – she replied standing from the sofa. Kara stood up from the floor, where she was playing with the dog, and he walked to Lena.

- You’re not sleeping well. – Kara mentioned, moving a step closer to the woman.

- I’m fine. – she said with a smile while gathering her belongings. - You are the one who needs to rest. See you tomorrow, lov… Kara. –

The blue eyes followed her all the way to the exit of the agency. She was tired of being at the D.E.O. all the time.

- Have you thought about where you want to go next? – Asked Winn at her back. She was too focused on Lena to pay attention. So, she turned to look at him confused. – You know, you can’t be here all the time, you need to choose whether you go to Alex’s place or back to your apartment with Lena. – he stated.

“Your apartment with Lena”, that sounded nice. To this very moment and with the help of a visit from Martian Manhunter she’d been able to recover some fragments of her memories with Lena, but his duties with the Justice League prevented him from being around. Also, Kara discovered that whenever he tried to reach certain memories lost in the fog, it resulted in a painful experience for her. Really painful.

- I don’t know yet, but I think I would like to go back to work… - she replied, a little pleased with the idea of sharing a place with Lena and playing with Krypto at any time. “Lena” she thought.

She had a memory of her getting back home after a long day of being Supergirl. She landed softly on the balcony and the first thing she noticed was Krypto barking and running to her. Lena stood from the couch and walked towards her to hug her and leave a soft kiss on her lips. Kara hugged her back. Oh, Kara could live in this memory forever! The warmth she felt, the happiness that somehow made her chest ache… Lena’s green eyes while she tenderly caressed her cheek. Kara felt that she finally had a home.

 - I had a home. – she murmured in a bittersweet tone, returning to her cot at the D.E.O.

Chapter Text

Kara was thinking about the few memories that J’on J’onzz was able to retrieve when Alex knocked on the doorframe.

- Are you sleepy? – she asked, showing her a box of pizza.

- Never for pizza! – the blonde answered.

While munching on her slice, Alex informed her that she would like her to meet with Dinah Lance twice a week.

- Okay– Kara answered while chewing.

- That’s it? I thought it would be harder to convince you to see her. – Alex said without hiding her surprise.

- I like Black Canary, she’s a badass! – Kara said. Then she added - I need to get back to work, Alex… Catco, I mean. - Her sister looked her in the eye and although everything in her wanted to scream “No!”, Alex took a bite of pizza while nodding.

- Let’s make a deal, talk to Dinah first, and see what she recommends. - The blonde grinned.

The auburn Danvers cleared her throat and mentioned to Kara that she has been almost a week at the D.E.O. and her monitoring was almost over, so she asked her if she wanted to move into her apartment, or if she prefers to go back with Lena.

The blonde started to cough and almost choke on her own saliva. The agent smiled maliciously and reached to grab the last slice of pizza.

- I think I would like to go back to Lena’s place and see how everything develops. – Kara said with eyes full of tears while trying to smile but still coughing.

- Dinah will be here tomorrow morning for your first meeting and after that I will take you to Lena’s place. – Alex said, getting ready to leave. – I will let Lena know so she doesn’t have to drive all the way here.

Kara stood up from the cot, walked to her sister and hugged her while saying “Thank you.”

- Yeah, don’t mention it kiddo, just go to bed and rest. – Alex said, leaving her sister’s embrace.

The young Danvers was relieved to know that she would be able to go back to a regular bed, wake up to see Lena without make up or power suits. “Will she have her hair down in the mornings or will she have a messy bun?”. She knew she was overthinking the whole thing, so she got her cellphone and went back to the first messages and started to read.

The next day, Lena woke up with wet kisses from Krypto at around 6:30am. With some effort she moved him from her face, something that he took as an invitation to jump onto the bed with her. On her back in bed and defeated, she sighed petting his chest while his head was on her abdomen. That’s when her cellphone pinged. It was a message from Alex.

“So, Kara has her first meeting with Dinah today, she wants to go back to your place. Morning btw.”

“Good morning, Alex. Thank you for letting me know. Would you like me to pick her up at the D.E.O.?”  she typed as fast as she could.

“No need, I will take her to your place. The tickets were removed, so I expect a glass of the whiskey you save for special occasions.” Was the response with an emoji with sunglasses.

“You can have the bottle, Alexandra.” She replied, adding a bottle and a glass emoji.

The raven-haired woman sat on the bed as much as she could and read the message again, and again, and again. Then jumped out of bed, startling Krypto who turned his attention to her. She walked around the bed trying to control her excitement and the nerves that were beginning to rise in her chest, then walked to the dog and kissed his head loudly.

- Mommy is coming home!!! – she said with a silly voice, the kind that she’s heard Kara use. He stood on his four legs, wagging his tail uncontrollably while still on the mattress and started to bark. Lena was overflowing with happiness.

While serving a generous plate to Krypto, she made her first phone call of the day to Jess, to inform her that she will work from home. Jess stated she would move some meetings and make the changes in her calendar but warned her that there was a phone call with Japan about her latest project that she was still expected to join. Lena assured her she would join the meeting as scheduled.

A couple cups of coffee later, Lena decided to restock her fridge and made sure everything was organized in the guest room of their apartment, since she didn’t expect Kara to sleep with her just yet; then ordered fresh flowers to welcome her fiancé.

Kara’s morning started with her almost falling from the cot, only to discover a small amount of drool on her chin and the cellphone firmly attached to her hand. It was 6am and she turned until she was on her back, with a last glance at the picture on her phone before letting the device rest on her chest. She sighed, but then remembered that this was the last time she would wake up in this cot. That thought gave her the boost needed to get up.

- Good, you’re awake. I brought you breakfast. – Said Alex when Kara was returning from the showers.

- Great! I will be there in 5 minutes. –

Over breakfast, Alex explained the plan for the day. At 9am she’d have her first session with Dinah, which would last as long as needed, but as soon as she’s free, the agent would take her to Lena’s place; so, she had a couple of hours to get ready. Kara grinned with half a pancake in her mouth. Alex also made her promise they would have a sisters’ night after everything was settled with Lena. The blonde nodded.

Truth be told, Kara couldn’t concentrate too much on what her sister was telling her. She was too focused on the chocolate chips and how they tasted combined with the vanilla of the pancake and the honey. But also, she was anxious about what would happen later that night.

By the time Dinah arrived at the D.E.O. it was 8:40am, wearing her signature black leather jacket on top of a white t-shirt and blue jeans. Kara had already finished packing all her belongings. She was holding Supergirl’s suit when Black Canary knocked on her door.

- Hi, Kara. –

- Hi, Dinah… - she murmured. The new arrival walked slowly until she was next to Kara.

- Thinking about leaving it here? - she asked, fixing her gaze on El’s crest.

- I won’t need it for some time. – the kryptonian replied with a sad smile.

- Well, good thing I’m here. Let’s talk about it. -

In her time as mentor for the Teen Titans, Black Canary was also their counselor. After her great job helping them and since every hero faces ups and downs, the Justice League and especially Batman, asked her to pursue the profession and she agreed. She was aware of Kara’s medical condition and the first thing she did was explain to Supergirl that she was not there to help her get her memories back, but to assist her on how to navigate the situation and together find the best tools to deal with it. Kara nodded.

- I want you to know that we can talk about whatever concern comes to your mind, I won’t force you to speak of something that you don’t feel ready to face just yet. –

- I understand. - Kara responded as she played with the edges of the cushion on the armchair.

At the beginning of the session, the kryptonian was quiet because she felt unsure about which topic to bring up with Dinah, so the counselor decided to talk about Supergirl’s favorite subject: Lena Luthor. Kara’s mood instantly changed, she felt more comfortable while discussing the C.E.O.’s visits and anecdotes; however, she also expressed her fear of losing her memories forever. If this happened, she’d only have 2 choices: step out of Lena’s life or fight to fit back into it. The idea of not being able to reconnect in a romantic level with the green-eyed woman terrified her, but she didn’t admit this.

 At the end of the session, Kara stepped out of the room first, to find Alex leaning on the wall in front of the door. She was out of her D.E.O. uniform. They exchanged soft smiles before Kara walked to her room to get her bag. Dinah walked out adjusting the jacket with one hand while holding her backpack with the other.

- Hi, Alexandra. – she said softly.

- How is she? – said the older sister crossing her arms over her chest.

- She’s been through a lot, but I would recommend waiting a week before she goes back to work at Catco. – she answered, walking to the exit. – Also, I think she’s kind of anxious about moving back with Lena, but she said she’s ready. – she added, grabbing her helmet from an empty desk.

- Thank you. -

- Don’t mention it. I already made arrangements with Kara so we can have some sessions online. – said the counselor with a broad smile, putting on her helmet and securing it before getting on her motorcycle.

- Nice ride! – said the agent. Black Canary smiled while turning the engine on.

Kara was already outside the building, bag in hand when she interrupted her sister’s moment.

- Told you, badass.

- Jeez! Kara, should I put a bell around your neck?! – said the auburn sister, slightly annoyed. The young Danvers grinned while rocking back on her heels.

Alex sighed and motioned her sister to follow her to the car, which was already parked outside. It was 11:15 am when they left the agency’s headquarters.

On the other side of the city, Lena Luthor was in her penthouse’s office, typing on her computer with a sleepy Krypto at her feet. Her phone call with Japan was scheduled at 3pm local time, 8am in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Lena’s nerves were calmer than earlier, probably because her entire focus was on the project she had been working on for months. If the Japanese company agreed to partner with LCorp, they would be creating low-cost prosthesis for war victims. Lena was able to develop schematics for a bionic prototype, but the Japanese company had the AI touch that she was missing to restore the natural movements and sensations to the patients.

She was very proud of the project and when she brought it to Kara for the first time, the blonde was as excited as she was; putting her arms around her waist and spinning her around while floating them centimeters above the floor. The morning when Lena met with the shareholders, Supergirl flew to Brazil and returned with Pão de queijo and plumerias, just to wish her good luck.

The young Luthor took her glasses off and sighed. While relaxing for a moment in her chair, she turned her attention to Krypto.

- Ready for lunch? – she offered, while sending the document to the printer. The dog stood up as soon as she spoke and wagged his tail. This brought a soft smile to her lips. – Come on, then. – she said standing up and walking out of the office.

City traffic at noon was a nightmare. Kara was drumming her fingers on her left leg while scrolling on her cellphone with her right. Alex gave her a side-eyed stare and decided to turn the volume up. It was a Nickelback song, the old Danvers started to sing along, mumbling at first but then raising her voice with the chorus. Kara had a big smile plastered on her face and joined her sister.

- Show-off. – Alex said, unable to hide her smirk when her sister was able to hit all the right notes. Kara grinned.

They continued singing along to the radio the rest of the way. By the time they reached Lena’s apartment, both were laughing and still singing the chorus of the last song on the radio. They said hello to the doorman, who welcomed Kara back with a big smile. After that, they continued to the elevator. The auburn-haired woman was aware that Lena had set the biometric scanner of the lift for her as well, but the blonde stopped her.

- I think I remember how to do it, let me try. – Kara mentioned and indeed she remembered how to access the elevator and the floor to their apartment. In that moment, Alex decided to be a copilot and let Kara navigate her through the building.

Her memories were foggy and some of them were mixed up, but she was able to get to Lena’s door by herself. She stopped in front of it and looked at the scanner next to the doorbell. Alex stood a couple of steps behind her, texting on her phone. The agent looked up and saw the blonde inhale and exhale several times.

On the other side of the door, Lena got the call from the doorman informing her that Kara was in the elevator on her way up. She walked to the door and stopped in front of it, Krypto by her side. She started to inhale and exhale deeply as something whirled in her stomach.

- Are you going to knock? – Alex asked softly at her back.

Kara shook her head, tightened her hand around the strap of her bag and walked back to the elevator.

- This is not a good idea; I’ll go to your place. – she said while passing by her sister.

Alex stood frozen for a few seconds, unsure if she should go with her sister or talk to the woman on the other side of the door first. After a moment, the agent followed Kara and held the lift’s doors open with her hand. The blonde remained inside the elevator, with her eyes glued to the floor.

- Wait for me in the car, I’ll be there in 10 minutes. – she indicated, removing her hand.

- Okay… - Kara replied softly while the doors closed between them.

The auburn-haired woman pondered the question: how on Earth would she explain this to Lena freaking Luthor? She sighed and returned to the C.E.O.’s doorstep, knocked twice and was completely sure the woman inside allowed her to knock more than once because she was as nervous as Kara a few moments before.

When Lena opened the door she had a big smile on her face, ready to welcome the love of her life back into their home. The smile dropped almost immediately when Alex stepped inside the apartment, alone.

- I am so sorry. – she murmured.

Lena stepped back and walked to her bar, fighting tears and feeling the tightness in her chest. Alex followed, closing the door behind her. She was explaining something, but the brunette couldn’t hear. There was a constant ringing in her ears. She felt dizzy. She felt that just like old cities she would crumble too, that just like some stars turn supernova, she would explode too. She was confused, she was hurt, even though a part of her understood the reason why Kara chose her sister over her.

- Please, give her some time… - Alex said softly, putting her hand on Lena’s shoulder.

But Lena turned to her with teary eyes and offered the agent a bottle of whiskey.

- You can have the bottle, Alex. – she said trying to smile. The auburn Danvers sighed.

- Lena, you don’t… - she was saying but Lena’s gaze turned Luthor. She raised her eyebrow and shook her head slightly.

- It’s fine. Please take it. If you’ll excuse me, I have a call with Japan. –

- Thank you… - she murmured, taking the bottle while Lena walked to her office, leaving the agent on her own. She smiled softly at Krypto and left.

Lena heard the door closing and effectively, just like the old cities, she crumbled… in the hallway. Krypto found her hugging her knees and sobbing, hiding her tears like she used to do when she was a child in Luthor manor. She looked at him when she felt his paw on her back.

- I know, I know… - she said with a raspy voice. Stretching her legs in front of her and allowing him to snuggle on her lap, Lena hugged him and cried again.

Downstairs, Kara wasn’t faring much better. She was a mess while waiting for Alex, pacing back and forth outside the building’s entrance. She was feeling so many things; her heart was beating incredibly fast; she was thirsty, and her hands were shaking. Damn, her whole body was shaking! She wasn’t sure which was the right decision for her at this point. She stopped pacing and started the breathing exercises that Dinah had recommended to her, but it wasn’t working.

Alex finally walked out of the building. Putting her sunglasses on, she walked straight to the car and Kara followed her in silence. The older sister passed the bottle of liquor to the blonde as soon as she settled into the passenger seat and the young woman took it without question. The agent extended her arms over the wheel and sighed.

- You can take as much time as you need. – The auburn-haired woman said, looking at her through dark lenses. The blonde kept her eyes fixed on the bottle.

- Is she okay? – Kara asked. Alex didn’t answer for a minute or two, trying to find the best response.

- No, she’s not. – her older sister replied with a sad tone - But she will be, both of you will be. You fell in love against all odds and even warnings from us. It took a lot of time and pain for you to be together and you built this fortress around your relationship. You protected it even from us on more than one occasion. – Kara wiped the tears from her face and turned to see the agent, who continued. – So… as someone who has seen you cry for that woman, as the sister who has comforted you when you felt hurt by her, I ask of you: next time, if there is one, think carefully about your decisions. –

Kara simply nodded, murmuring “I’m sorry.”. Then her sister started the engine to drive home.

Chapter Text

- Thank you for your time today, Mr. Sato. With the corrections made to the new prototype, I’m sure we’ll be one step closer to our goal. – she said, sipping her tea.

- Quite the opposite, Ms. Luthor. It is I who appreciate you taking time from your busy agenda to attend this meeting. It’s such a shame that we can’t work shoulder to shoulder in the labs, I have a hunch that would help us resolve the glitches that arise daily. –

Lena thought about his words, then looked at Krypto and a sad smile crossed her lips. She decided to go back to an old habit of hers: putting all her energy into her work. That never failed her, and it might be what she required right now. Kara needed time, so she would grant her time and space. Hell, she might even need some of that too.

- I think I can be in Japan by the weekend, so we can start working together on Monday. As you might understand I will need to make certain arrangements and create a new agenda with my team. – Lena stated.

- It will be our pleasure to work with you, Ms. Luthor. I will have my assistant contact your office to provide all the necessary information. –

Her call ended after going over some additional points for their next week of work. She relaxed in her chair, but then Krypto barked.

- Yes, dinner is coming. – she said, standing up and walking to the kitchen.

While serving Krypto his dinner, her cellphone rang.

- Jess, good evening. –

- Care to explain Ms. Luthor, why there’s a Japanese supermodel emailing me all sorts of details for next week’s work? - Huang asked, making Lena laugh.

- I’m going to Japan. - she replied while opening the recently restocked fridge to grab the mint and chocolate chips ice cream.

- I’m sorry Ms. Luthor, are you saying we’re going to Japan? – her assistant asked again, amused.

Lena started to provide some of the details they will need to review the next day to leave everything ready for Samantha, who will oversee LCorp while the young Luthor works on securing the partnership with the most important company in Japan.

- Sam is going to love that! – Jess pointed out sarcastically.

On the other side of the city, at Alex Danver’s home, Kara had her head resting on her right hand while sitting on the sofa. She was holding a cushion to her chest while the movie played in the background. After returning from Lena’s place, Alex didn’t say much at all about what happened, simply told her sister she had a date that night and needed to get ready.

Kara didn’t remember who put the movie on or what it was about. She felt like her entire being was scattered all over the place and she didn’t know how to start gluing things back together. She was sad about not being able to cross Lena’s door.

- A penny for your thoughts. – her sister said, surprising her and interrupting her train of thought.

- Not much, recently some files were deleted. – she said with a fake smile while looking at the tv screen.

- Haha, so you’re funny now? – Alex asked while stepping in front of the blonde.

- You look beautiful Alex. Going somewhere nice? – she said, appreciating her sister’s outfit.

Alex then proceeded to provide all the details of her date. It was a beautiful woman who matched her through a dating app some time ago. They chatted but had never met in person. It was someone that moved to National City less than two years ago, she had a daughter, and she was working in finance.

- Sounds like a catch. Show me a picture. – Kara said, crossing her arms over her chest. After rolling her eyes, Alex pulled out her cellphone and showed her the woman’s picture.

Kara smiled widely and covered her mouth with her hand.

- I remember her... – Kara said, holding the cellphone in her hands. - It’s Samantha! She went to the same school as Lena. They lost contact and reconnected a few years ago. –

- Well, it looks like those files you mentioned were corrupted not deleted. – Alex mentioned, smirking at her sister.

The blonde grinned.

It took Lena a week to organize everything at the company for her trip to Japan, so seven days after Kara had gone to live with Alex, on a Thursday morning, Lena called her sister-in-law and asked her to stop by her apartment around 7 p.m. As part of her preparation for the upcoming trip, the young Luthor delegated all of her responsibilities to Samantha Arias, LCorp's chief financial officer, so that she and Jess could pack and rest enough for the 12-day trip.

Alex asked the doorman to announce her and walked to the elevator. When she arrived at Lena’s door, it was half-way open. Cautiously, the agent pushed it open fully and after taking a couple of steps inside, the dog jumped on her, throwing her off her feet.

- Krypto no! – Lena yelled, walking towards them. – Alex, I’m so sorry! – the raven-haired woman added, helping up the older sister.

- I should be used to this… my bad. – she replied, remembering that the first few occasions when she visited her sister, the dog jumped at her like a cat in the wild. – I bet he thinks he’s still a pup. – she added, patting the retriever’s head with a smile.

- That’s Kara’s fault… - Lena answered with a smile, but hearing her own comment out loud made her stop in her tracks. – She… she used to treat him like a puppy all the time. – she added.

Alex remained in silence, appraising the suitcases in the living room and a bag full of Krypto’s things.

- Do I need to be worried about these? – The agent asked, pointing her hand at the mess in the living room, while following Lena to the kitchen. Lena smiled softly.

- Let’s have a drink first. –

After two glasses of whiskey at Lena’s balcony, the C.E.O. explained to her future sister-in-law about the trip and her project with the Japanese company, while occasionally playing catch with Krypto. Alex said:

- So, you’re not running away, just going to work and you want me to take your four-legged version of Kara with me to my small apartment, so your fiancé can take care of him while mummy is away? –

Lena snorted at the comparison between Kara’s personality and her golden retriever.

- It would be for a couple of weeks and the apartment will be available, you can perfectly stay with him here. I tried to book him a walker and a dog hotel, but they said that he was too energetic, and it seems that chihuahuas scared him. –

- Chihuahuas are evil! – Alex said looking at Krypto. – Fine, I will take him with me, when do you leave?

- Tomorrow morning, you must take him with you tonight. – Lena said, drinking her whiskey in a gulp. Alex started to cough.

- Tonight?

The agent was unable to get an extension or anything on the matter. Lena walked Krypto to the older sister’s truck, making sure twice that all his favorite toys, blanket, food, and treats were there. She hugged him so much that when she closed the door, he whined and scratched at the window.

- Does he do that in your Mercedes? – Alex asked, pointing at him.

- No, he’s a good boy. – Lena said smiling, although the agent noticed some tears in her eyes.

- So, he doesn’t like my car. Noted. – The other woman said – Take care of yourself Lena. – she added.

Lena nodded and allowed herself to be embraced. Then the agent walked to the driver’s side of the vehicle, got in, lowered the window for Krypto, just enough for him to feel the night’s breeze and started the engine while Lena said a final goodbye and returned inside the building.

- This will be fun. – she said to the dog. Krypto whined and positioned himself on the floor of the truck’s passenger’s side.

When she got home, Kara was again contemplating Alex’s ceiling like it was the Sistine Chapel and she missed a spot. The television was on, it was an Italian cooking show, she was again hugging the cushion; for some reason feeling its weight on her chest made her feel better. Suddenly, her train of thought was interrupted or better said, derailed by a loud bark and a ball of fur jumping on top of her.

- Krypto! – she exclaimed. The dog was already peppering her face with sweet kisses. She started to laugh.

Once the emotion of the reunion passed, Kara stood up leaving the dog on the couch.

- Why is he here? Is Lena, okay? – she asked with concern.

- She’s fine. She needs you to take care of him. She will be abroad and was unable to find him a nanny because the big furry boy over there is scared of chihuahuas! – Alex said pointing at Krypto, who turned his face away.

- Thats’s because chihuahuas are evil, Alex. – the blonde replied, leaning on the kitchen counter.

- Right, anyway, her apartment will be empty so if you want to take care of him over there, you’re welcome or if you need to pick up something. You have the key. – the agent said tapping her sister’s hand.

Kara’s gaze fixed on her own hand and suddenly panic invaded her chest. She turned to her sister, eyes wide open.

- Where’s my bracelet? – Alex looked at her with surprise.

- What bracelet? -

- The one I always use… I think. – she said with hesitation, looking at her right wrist. The blonde wasn’t sure about this piece of jewelry, but she had the feeling that it was important and now it was missing. How was it possible to miss something she barely remembered and had no clue how it found its way to her?

Alex looked at her and sighed.

- I have your bracelet. You gave it to me for safekeeping before your last fight. It’s upstairs. – the agent was already on her way to her room. It was on her nightstand.

- Did someone give it to me? – The blonde asked, following her sister.

- Lena, but you will have to ask her about that. –she replied, placing the piece of jewelry in her hands.

- This is kryptonian... – Kara murmured. Alex nodded, stepping out of the bedroom and going back to the living room.

Kara was inspecting the inscription when she heard her sister say something, then yell:

- Kara Zor-El Danvers!! Come and get your dog off me! –

The blonde put on the bracelet and ran as fast as she could.

The days passed. Some good days, some bad days. Each piling up one after another into weeks, and Kara’s powers were returning to the usual levels. Alex kept repeating tests and sharing results with experts in Alien Medicine. Black Canary continued her talks with Supergirl through video calls, since sometimes Dinah’s responsibilities forced her to stay in the Justice League’s Watchtower.

On the other side of the ocean, Lena was slowly turning to her usual workaholic traits. Jess normally had to walk into the lab and remind her of lunch or dinner. Some nights when the C.E.O.’s mood allowed it, the young assistant would take Lena’s laptop and electronics with her.

Luthor was losing some weight due to the new diet and on top of that, she was using the hotel gym almost every moment she was free, to deal with certain negative emotions and thoughts that assaulted her at night. She was having trouble sleeping, there were nights when she fell asleep crying only to wake up from the nightmares she had been experiencing for weeks. So instead of staying in bed and trying to sleep, she would hit the gym or text Alex asking about Kypto.

On top of that, she was isolating herself. Since they arrived in Japan, Jess had offered to go out to dinner, dance on a Friday night, or try that popular bar on social media.

- I will finish this and let you know. –

But she never did.

- If you keep doing this to yourself, you will get sick in a foreign country and your project will not only get stuck but probably be cancelled by the board. – Jess said one night while adjusting the C.E.O.’s calendar for the weekend.

- I need to check in with Sam. – said the black-haired woman. – It’s late, you should get some rest.

Jess stepped out of the room, defeated again, leaving Lena glued to her computer.

In National City, however, the sun was rising and a superpowered alien was ready to take a morning walk with her dog. Since Alex was at the D.E.O., the blonde decided to drive to the dog park near Lena’s place, so Krypto could be comfortable and play with some of his friends.

After being at the park for a couple of hours, they walked to their apartment almost by inertia. Kara smiled hello to the doorman, walked to the elevator and rode up to their floor. Once there, she stopped in front of Lena’s door like she had done almost two months ago. Krypto sat next to her while the blonde kept her gaze fixed on the doorknob.

- I should go in, right? – she asked. The retriever tilted his head slightly and barked. – Okay, okay... don’t yell at me. – she replied, placing her hand on the biometric reader next to the doorbell. It turned green immediately.

Krypto stood and pushed the door open, walking inside and looking for Lena. His blonde companion took more time to absorb her surroundings. She had thought she’d be greeted by white walls and uncomfortable furniture like in the lobby, expensive paintings and a modern, impersonal décor, but she was mistaken. She walked slowly through the place, surprised to find white walls filled not with works of art but with photographs of them.

Kara took off her coat and walked around, finding pictures she took of Lena and Krypto. There were touches of gray on the doors, a blue sofa as the central piece in the living room and cushions in different shapes and shades of gray on it. There was a quilt at one end and Kara couldn’t resist the need to touch it, so she ran her hand gently over it.

Something twisted inside of her, and a tear ran freely down her cheek. Krypto appeared, wagging his tail. The blonde felt a little overwhelmed and sat down on the couch. This was their home, and she didn't remember when they had chosen the sofa or how they had managed to keep Krypto from biting it.

The retriever saw its opportunity and jumped on Kara’s lap.

Somewhere else, a young C.E.O. was taking a break from work, looking through the window of the Frank Lloyd Wright Suite she reserved at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo. She was nursing a glass of whiskey when she heard the chime from her cellphone; the woman sighed and swallowed the drink in one gulp.

She slowly walked back to her desk and saw that what she believed was a file from her future partners, was in fact an alert from her security system in National City. A soft smile graced her lips. She switched to the laptop and saw the live footage of the blonde woman in the elevator. She was rocking on her feet, wearing a blue navy coat… her hair in a messy bun.

She tried to close the tab of the camera, but seeing the woman she loves go over the spaces that once belonged only to them felt different. She watched the blonde put her hands in her pockets and walk around, taking in each photograph. This was all she wanted, for Kara to get familiar with her place, but then Krypto jumped onto the couch.

That was not negotiable, not with Kara nor with the adorable dog she missed.

- Krypto is not allowed on the sofa, darling. – said a voice softly. Kara was startled, her body reacting differently to something in her chest aching. Of course, Krypto jumped to the floor immediately. – I’m sorry if I scared you. I received an alert when you walked into the elevator. – she explained.

- Lena? – the blonde asked, standing from the couch and looking around for the camera.

- That would be me. – the woman replied. – Bookshelf, top right corner. – she indicated softly.

- Where are you? – The blonde asked, floating towards the camera.

– Japan. - The green-eyed woman saw her fiancé get the phone from her back pocket and look for something. Then Kara turned back to the camera.

- It’s past midnight. – she said. Lena said nothing. – Are you upset I entered without informing you first? – she asked, a little ashamed.

Lena again remained in silence. The reason for it had a name: Jessica Huang. She had stepped into the room after knocking too softly for her boss to hear.

- Are you still working? – she asked, looking at Lena.

- No, I’m talking to Kara. – she replied with a smile.

- Finally! Well, in that case, I will take the laptop and leave you to it. G’nite. – she responded with a smile. Lena shook her head and grabbed her phone, pulled Kara’s contact and started to type but then deleted it. Hesitation invading her.

Kara landed softly on the apartment floor again and called for Krypto to leave. Then she got a text message with the picture of Lena: “This is your home, Kara. You can stop by whenever you want. I’m sorry but I had to turn off my laptop, Jess has me on a strict schedule for my working hours.” and a smiley emoji.

The blonde smiled and typed her response: “Good. Someone must keep an eye on you if I’m not around.” She kept her eyes on the screen, saw Lena typing and then nothing. Typing again but nothing was sent. So, she texted one more time: “You should try to rest.” followed by several sleep emojis. Then a selfie of Kara grinning in close-up, showing Krypto settled in his bed by the kitchen.

The C.E.O. couldn't find the exact words that reflected her feelings but at the same time, didn't feel like she was expecting more than what Kara was able to offer right now. Then she got the picture and replied to it the only way possible for her:

A red heart emoji was sent by Lena and both were smiling almost at the same time.

Chapter Text

It was the beginning of fall; Kara stopped by the apartment once or twice a week with Krypto. She would check the fridge to make sure everything remained in good condition or to replace something that she had eaten or drank. Sometimes she would make herself comfortable and watch TV in Lena’s living room... well, their living room.

She continued to exchange texts with the raven-haired woman on the other side of the ocean. After weeks, Lena asked her to stay at the apartment, since it was more comfortable for Krypto and Kara. The blonde hesitated at first but accepted when Alex’s neighbors complained to the agent about the dog’s presence, although she still spent some nights at Alex’s.

One of those nights at her sister’s place, Kara opened her eyes at dawn and did what she’d been doing for weeks after getting her powers back; opened the window and flew out, stopping at 90,000 feet up in the planet's atmosphere. She closed her eyes while the radiation of the young yellow star of our solar system flooded every cell in her body.

She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, allowing the sounds of the planet to rush into her ears. Kara tuned her ears and little by little, the sounds of traffic, shouts of vendors, couples arguing and screaming children faded away. Then… there it was! The beat of a particular heart, beating as fast as a nightingale’s, the crying... her name escaping like a forbidden prayer from those lips.

After almost an hour, she heard the heartbeat slow down.

The sadness that invaded her lit the spark of her determination. Kara needed to recover her memories. So, one weekend she went to her cousin’s farm for help and after flying to the fortress with him, Kal El determined that she was physically fine and there was no evidence that someone had altered her memories. She was disheartened.

- Kara, just be patient with your healing process. – he recommended, passing his arm over her shoulders.

But the week after that she went to Midvale, to visit her adoptive mother to vent out. Eliza listened to her, saw her cry out of frustration, hugged her and wiped her tears, just like when Kara was still young. She explained to her how this kind of injury might affect human life and that she was fortunate to have a support network of loving people. Her visit was brief, but she still managed to have a taste of her favorite pie and more hugs.

After a couple of weeks, she contacted Martian Manhunter and was received at the Watchtower, but he explained that her kryptonian physiology hindered his attempts to help her. He said the amount of pain she would undergo did not guarantee her memory would be restored in its entirety, since despite his ability, they had only managed to recover fragments.

On the other hand, in one of her sessions with Dinah, she expressed Supergirl had exhausted all her viable options and maybe she needed to simply allow her body to heal. Maybe allow Kara Danvers to go back to her routine. The counselor explained that all she needed now was to go back to her life and accept that time cannot be controlled.

When she decided to share the news with her friends, they were surprised and excited for her.

- You can go back to work? – Alex asked during a game night.

- Black Canary said so… - the blonde answered, patting Krypto’s back.

Alex tilted her head while taking a sip of her beer, not quite convinced yet.

- But you won’t be allowed to be Supergirl, right? – Winn asked from the other side of the monopoly layout.

- Dinah says it’s best to wait a little more for that. – she replied with a smile, moving her token. He nodded.

- You were beat up last time. – Nia said without thinking.

Everyone around the table turned to look at her… then burst into laughter.

Then, just like that, Kara Danvers went back to Catco Magazine. Her absence was not hard to justify, only a little manipulated. For everyone at work, Kara was involved in a car crash that caused a head injury. Period.

She had a couple of hard days at work, unable to concentrate, dealing with Snapper Carr who sent her to review a couple of articles not trusting her yet to assign her a new story. She also got lost in the office, however, Winn and Nia decided to make her a map; a little project they started with Brainy’s help to provide her with some tips about the people she was friendly with at Catco.

- It’s an app! – Winn stated excitedly and proceeded to show her how it works. He even added Lena’s home and office addresses and made sure to include all of Kara’s favorite places to visit.

- Thank you, guys! – she said with her voice full of emotion while hugging them.

One perk of her accident was that they asked her to start working part time for at least a week before returning to her full-time routine, so most of the time she would get out of work, use the app to walk to Lena’s place, have some food with her four-legged companion, get Krypto to the dog park then return home and watch the Italian cuisine series.

Throughout her day she would be sending Lena pictures or texting her about how things were going. For her part, Lena was always in contact with Alex, checking on Kara's mood and health. The project with the Japanese company was not developing as fast as she thought, so she gave Jess the option to return to National City if she wanted.

- Are you kidding? This is like a vacation for me! – the woman said with a smirk. – Have you taken the time to see what this place has to offer? – she asked, referring to the hotel.

Lena just shook her head while smiling.

On a Saturday morning, Kara decided to stop by Alex’s place after descending from the Earth’s atmosphere. The agent was having breakfast when the blonde walked into her apartment and started to make pancakes using her super speed.

- I would like to have lunch with Lena. – the blonde said to Alex, while flipping the first pancake. The agent looked at her with surprise and almost choked on the toast she was eating.

- Really? – she managed to ask, still coughing.

- Yes, it’s been months and according to all of you I’m fine, so I think it will be good to see her and apologize properly. – she replied, serving a glass of orange juice to her sister.

- Oh yes, definitively! – her older sister said, taking a sip.

And so, she did, the week after informing her sister. Lena was at the conference room of the Japanese company, signing off some documents for the new project when a flustered Jess walked in. She stood by the door after closing it behind her and cleared her throat, but the Luthor had her gaze fixed on the documents. The assistant then leaned on the desk and whispered:

- You have a visitor, Lena. –

Before she could ask anything about said visitor or why her assistant was whispering, Kara walked slowly into the conference room, carrying bags from Noonan’s. The green-eyed woman stood from her chair.

- Ms. Luthor, consider your agenda cleared for the rest of the afternoon. – said Jess while walking out of the room.

Kara smiled at her. During their conversations, the black-haired woman had told her she could surprise her whenever she wanted, and it felt like a good start, so the blonde had decided to do it.

- I should have called. - she said, reconsidering her strategy while looking at the very still C.E.O.

- No. – she replied a little too loudly, so she continued, modulating her voice to a softer tone. – Kara, it’s fine. – Lena said, walking towards her.

Lena felt that the world stopped rotating and started again in the opposite direction. When she stood up, her legs felt weak and if she hadn't placed her hands on the table, she was almost sure she would have fallen, but nothing compared to the tightness in her chest… the way the air suddenly left her lungs and the entire room, when she met those blue eyes fixed on her.

However now that they were face to face, they didn’t know how to start, and after a couple minutes the blonde took the first step, getting closer to the green-eyed woman and half hugging her. The C.E.O. felt then the warmth she had been missing every day, every week, every month, spreading like balm in her chest. She was able to smell Kara’s perfume again, the way it mixed with her shampoo. Her heart probably was driving the super mad.

- I am so sorry, Lena. – Kara murmured in her ear and then she felt Lena hugging her back with tenderness, with doubts. They remained like that for a moment but separated to set the food on the table. – Is it okay to eat here or do we need to go somewhere else? – the blonde asked.

- Maybe we should go out. After all, it recently came to my attention that I have the rest of the afternoon free. – she replied while walking around the table to gather her belongings.

Once Lena made sure that she wouldn’t be needed at the lab or the office, they left the building. The driver was already waiting for them outside.  Kara was grateful that the woman walking next to her was unable to hear her heartbeat, because she was almost sure that, if it were possible, she’d be about to have a heart attack.

The driver took them from the business district to Lena’s hotel. Kara had never seen anything like this place, the ocean blue carpet welcomed them and as soon as the C.E.O. walked into the building, a concierge approached, offering to take the bags from the blonde’s hands.

- We can eat in my suite and then go to the Imperial Palace; you will love it. – Lena mentioned in the elevator. Kara nodded.

Kara was stunned about the level of detail and service; the concierge stayed with them and made sure to bring members of the staff to serve their meals properly at the table.

- It’s a nice suite… - Kara murmured.

- Thank you. – Lena replied, playing with a piece of chicken in her salad.

The atmosphere felt uneasy. Neither of them was looking at the other or saying anything.

- This is ridiculous. – Lena murmured, putting her fork down. Kara looked at her.

- Would you like me to go? – she dared to ask. Lena looked at her with tears in her eyes.

- No Kara… I don’t want you to go. - she said softly. – It’s just ridiculous how we have this awkward silence between us. –

- We were talking just fine when I was at the D.E.O. – the blonde mentioned.

The woman in front of her nodded, then Lena noticed with wide eyes how the sleeve of the gray cardigan that Kara was wearing rose a little, exposing the bracelet. The Kryptonian heard a quiet “Oh...” followed by an increase in Lena’s heart rate. Her own heart skipped.

- Are you okay? – she asked with concern in her voice.

- You… you’re... why are you wearing the bracelet? – green eyes meet blue, full of hope and curiosity.

- Can we skip the visit to the Imperial palace? – Kara asked.

The blonde proceeded to explain everything she has been trying to do to get her memories back, including a couple of sessions with J'onn J'onzz that felt like torture to her. As a result of one of those sessions she got an incomplete memory about always wearing a bracelet. She also mentioned her conversation with Alex and the lack of details from the agent regarding the piece of jewelry, but she had decided to wear it anyway.

Lena walked Kara to the living room sofa and sat next to her. Then, smiling softly she said:

- I proposed to you with that bracelet, respecting your kryptonian traditions and you proposed to me with this ring in observance of our earthly customs. – She held out her hand so Kara could see the ring. – We agreed that at our wedding you will give me a bracelet to welcome me to the Noble House of El, and I will give you a ring to welcome you as a Luthor. –

- Who proposed first? – Kara asked, holding Lena’s hand, studying the details in the ring. She couldn't help but notice how soft the woman's hands were. Who, incidentally, upon hearing her question, could not help but let out a laugh. – It’s a valid concern! – Kara said, pretending to be offended.

- I did. – Lena replied smirking, but she did notice that the blonde had been holding her hand longer than necessary to appreciate the work in the ring. – But the only reason I got to bend the knee first is because you were so nervous that you put the dental floss dispenser in your pocket instead of the actual ring. –

Kara smiled, rolling her eyes and bringing her hands to her face, embarrassed. The contact between them was broken. She missed being touched by Kara, and this moment had elevated her to the gates of heaven then plunged her back into hell.

They talked a little more about the plans for the wedding. How they disagreed about the band and the song that they were supposed to dance to as Mrs. & Mrs., both laughing to tears.

- I’m really sorry. – Kara said while Lena caught her breath after the last laugh.

- I know, Kara. Me too. - The black-haired woman replied, resting her hand on the blonde's shoulder.

- It’s time to go. I liked this; would it be okay if I called you some day? – Kara asked. The green-eyed woman nodded.

- I missed this… - Lena stated.

- I know. – Kara replied almost immediately.

After getting up from the sofa they hugged, and this time it came without hesitation. Like somehow, they were able to go back to a point in time where they didn’t need to remember or talk, just feel.

Kara returned to National City feeling… happy. Yes, that was the correct word for her emotional state, she was feeling happy. Something inside of her felt incredibly good. Lena's hug felt like coming home after walking all afternoon in the rain during the coldest winter. She could do this.

Lena walked into her bedroom with a smile plastered on her face. She leaned against the door, looking at the ring in her hand and remembering every moment as if it were the first time. The warmth of her embrace, her gaze searching her own, her touch... how she missed her touch! Her smile!

They continue chatting and exchanging pictures of their day-to-day lives. Kara asking more questions about their relationship and Lena happy to provide all the details she needed: dates, favorite restaurants, preferred plans for a Friday night, etc.

One Sunday, when Kara was at home, she walked into the apartment’s master bedroom. This was supposed to be theirs, so she got curious. She sat on the bed and looked around, Krypto following her in. Then Kara stood up and went into the walk-in closet. Her clothes were organized by color on the right side of the space. She opened one of the drawers and found a series of sex toys and harnesses. Like a child who has found something forbidden, she closed the drawer so fast and so hard, it broke at the impact, scaring Krypto in the process. Her blush spread like a wave from her cheeks to the back of her neck.

That afternoon at 5:32pm California time, the good Kara Danvers asked Lena through a voice note about their sex life.

The message was received on a Monday at 10:33am in Japan. Lena was working with Jess in the conference room, correcting the last bugs they found in the prototype design. The C.E.O. reached for a glass of water that was placed on the table for her, pressed the play button and moved the cellphone to her ear: “So, I was checking out the closet and found some things… did we have a lot of sex with toys?”. The water was expelled from her mouth, onto the table and computer in front of her, some dripping on her lap and cleavage. She started to cough, red expanding all over her chest and up to her ears.

Jess stood up immediately to assist her, removing the glass from her hand and asking her to stand and breathe slowly.

- Are you okay, Lena?! – Ms. Huang asked, visibly concerned.

- Yes, sorry. – she answered with difficulty and a hoarse voice.

- I will get you another suit, wait here. – Jess left the conference room, closing the door behind her.

She decided not to answer the question, at least not right now. She was so close to finishing the design and going back home. Ignoring the message, the conversations continued along the same lines, Kara sending her some old songs, the most recent being “Back for Good” and then another voice note of Kara singing the song. “Someone remembers how to sing.” Lena replied along with a heart and nerd emoji. The blonde responded with a nerd and smiley emoji.

When Lena finally returned to National City after almost 4 months in Japan on a Wednesday at 6:47pm, Alex went to pick her up at the airport.

- Welcome back, ladies. – The agent greeted Lena and Jess, offering each a bouquet of flowers.

- Thank you, Alex. – Jess said, winking while accepting her bouquet.

- I have been appointed to take you both home. – She replied while stepping closer to take their hand luggage.

- Let’s drop Lena first and we can have a drink. – Jess said smirking.

- Sold, Ms. Huang! – the auburn-haired woman replied with a grin from ear to ear.

Lena couldn’t help smiling. The ride was calm, Jess talking to Alex about the hotel’s amenities, which Lena was unable to explore, except for the Fitness center. The radio was playing “Back for Good”. Lena recognized the song, but all she could think about was Kara being at their apartment and like the good old days she’d welcome her home after a long day of work.

Kara asked her sister the favor of picking them up since she wanted to prepare a special dinner for Lena. The phone rang, it was the doorman letting her know Lena was on her way up and that he would bring up the luggage the next day.

- Krypto, she’s coming! Come on. – the blonde said, pressing play on Michael Bublé’s love songs.

There he was after spending his afternoon at the grooming spa, the cutest golden retriever wearing a tuxedo. Using her super speed, Kara dressed in a deep blue three-piece suit, no shirt and brown lace-up front oxford shoes.

Lena walked into the apartment and her heart overflowed with joy. She was immediately attacked by an incredibly excited Krypto. She kneeled and he jumped on her, wagging his tail, his front paws on her shoulders, nose nudging her and tongue leaving wet kisses on her face.

- Okay enough, enough. My turn! – Kara said while offering her hand to help Lena up. Then she hugged her. – Welcome home. – the blonde added.

- Thank you, darling. – she murmured.

Kara walked Lena to the living room, using her super speed to pour and offer her a cold glass of white wine.

- Thank you. – the C.E.O. said, accepting it while they sat on the couch.

They chatted about the trip, the overall experience of being abroad for so long, work at Catco, Kripto’s adventures, game nights and so on. By the end of the second glass of wine the raven-haired woman asked:

- Kara, it smells delicious, where did you get the food? – the blonde grinned.

- It’s a surprise. Would you like to change first, or do you feel ready for dinner? –

- I will change into something more comfortable. – Lena said, standing up and walking to the bedroom.

While Lena changed, Kara walked back to the kitchen and made a new batch of Ricotta and spinach balls (because she knew her appetite), got the ingredients for the sauce from the fridge and turned on the burners.

Kara had never cooked anything this elaborate all by herself. But while watching the Italian cuisine show every night, she came to the realization that she could try to make fresh homemade pasta. Alex had been there for the first attempts. Sometimes she’d used the wrong type of flour, added too many eggs, under-kneaded the pasta dough, etc.

After 30 minutes, Lena walked out of the room looking gorgeous. She wore a V-neck black dress that hugged every curve, high heels, perfect makeup and her hair down. The air escaped Kara’s lungs while she stood staring. After a moment, Lena asked:

- You cooked? – noticing that Kara had a squeezed ball of spinach in her hand.

- I cooked. – Kara replied, clearing her throat and looking proud of herself. Lena smirked.

- Do you need help? – she asked while serving another glass of wine for both.

- I got it. Please sit and enjoy your wine, I’ll be with you shortly. - the blonde responded, washing the uncooked mess from her hand.

Krypto got Lena’s attention with a toy.

- Did you miss me? – she asked. In response Krypto barked and ran ahead of her wagging his tail.

They played catch for a while, until Kara announced that dinner was ready. She offered her arm to Lena and led her to the dining room. The table was set for two and everything was impeccable. Kara had made farfalle for the ricotta and spinach balls, a dish that she chose to accompany with a caprese salad with Marinda tomatoes she had picked up earlier that day at Sicily’s market.

- Kara, did you cook all this? – Lena asked mid dinner.

- I did, Alex borrowed the pasta maker from Winn, and I watched a few tutorials. I can proudly say I can make us pasta from scratch anytime. – she said sipping her wine.

- This is the best I’ve had. Thank you so much. – green eyes glimmering, and the most beautiful smile Kara had ever seen.

After dinner they stayed at the table, finishing their wine and laughing at Kara’s failed attempt to use super speed to make pasta the first time. Krypto was resting at their feet. Following a few minutes of comfortable silence, the blonde stood up to clear the dishes and take them to the kitchen. An opportunity she used to prepare the second part of her welcome.

When everything was taken care of, she looked at Lena, who was smiling at Krypto’s sleepy eyes. Kara offered her hand to the raven-haired woman.

- May I please have this dance, Ms. Luthor? – the blonde asked, using her Supergirl confidence. The C.E.O. took her hand.

- You remember how to dance? – Lena smiled, arching her eyebrow in a flirtatious manner while walking with the blonde back to the living room.

- Maybe I watched a couple of videos. – Kara replied, taking her glasses off.

The lights were dimmed and some of the furniture had been moved. Lena noticed it wasn’t Michael Bublé playing. It was an old song, not necessarily a slow song but she allowed herself to be guided by Kara’s strong arms.

- You know... I heard you. – Kara said. Lena raised an eyebrow, mystified. – When you were crying, I heard you. – Lena averted her gaze, so the blonde squeezed her hand. – I listened to you every night while in Japan. I might not remember all this yet, but when I heard you cry or whisper my name while sobbing there was something inside of me that cracked or pulled me every time and all I wanted to do was fly to you and hug you. –

Lena remained in silence, but Kara brought Lena’s body closer and while dancing she started to sing along:

“If you go now, I'll understand
If you stay, hey, I've got a plan.

You wanna make a memory?
You wanna steal a piece of time?
You can sing the melody to me…”

This sent shivers throughout Lena’s entire body, and she felt that everything that had been keeping her together all this time simply fell apart. She just hugged Kara tighter and allowed herself to cry in her arms, while the blonde held her as many times before, close to her heart. A few tears escaping from her eyes as well when Lena started to sing along with her:

“…Baby, just breathe.

There's nowhere else tonight we should be …”

Green eyes looked up until she met Kara’s blue.

- How could you love me? – Kara asked with fresh tears escaping her eyes. Lena smiled softly and took her hand to the blonde’s cheek and said:

- Deeply… Silently… and for too many years, until the end of time, darling. -