human
Kara Kent/Supergirl dialogue represented by teal. Lois Lane by Rosy Brown
Metropolis was a bustling city, and if you weren't careful, you could be run over. And not just by vehicles on the streets, or scooters and bikes on the sidewalks. This place could make Los Angeles or New York look calm in comparison. About the only thing it did have going for it, was that one of it's new residents, from some small berg in Kansas, was really it's newest champion. More on that as our story progresses. Right now, the focus is on a certain floor of a major metropolitan newspaper, one of Metropolis' many, called The Daily Planet.
"Lane! Kent!" Editor in chief Perry White barked for his star reporter and her protege. Only the star reporter showed up.
"Where's your protege, Lane? This is really HER assignment! She's supposed to be a cub reporter!"
Lois, a raven haired 20 something, shrugged."You know Smallville, Chief.... She could probably get lost in the broom closet. I sent her to the supply room for that color toner you asked for."She looked at her watch."Meh. It's only been ten minutes, I give it another..."Kara came in setting four colors down on Perry's desk."Wow. Congratulations, Smallville. That's a new personal best for you!"
Kara blushed, adjusting her glasses."I would have been quicker, but I couldn't find the yellow."She pointed to one of the toners.
Perry facepalmed. "You explain it to her, Lane... Later." He looked dead at Kara Lee Kent. "Young lady, you wanted your first story, I'm going to give you a chance. I want a human interest story. This person cannot be some famous CEO or anything like that. I want a blue collar, non famous, common worker not unlike yourself."
Kara showed her naivety by saying,"Like my mentor, here, Lois. Erm... I mean... Ms. Lane. Sorry, Ms. Lane."
"I won a Pulitzer. I'm disqualified. And I'm well known. Strike two, Smallville. If you can't think of anyone else... Like maybe where you go almost every day... I know someone perfect for you. Well loved in the community, and her cinnamon rolls are top notch."
Both Perry and Kara blinked at Lois. Kara's look was almost a blank stare. Perry's eyes lit up. "Ah. Yes, Lois... She'd be perfect! She's really only popular in her area. That lady could really use some free advertising!" He looked at the still lost Kara. "That's your assignment, Kent, I want a human interest story on her. Everything... Including her name, because it escapes me at the moment."
"It's Jess, Chief. I never asked her last, I'm a regular."Lois explained, before swatting Kara in the back of the head and shaking her stinging hand."You and your hard head, Smallville! Ouch! And shame on you, you go there too, for that danish you like so much!"
Kara finally got it."Oh! Yeah!"Then to Perry,"I won't let you down, Chief."
Perry nodded, clasped his hands in front of him and said, "Can you girls do me the tiniest of favors, hmm?" Once he was sure he had both of their attention, he slammed his hands on his desk and yelled while almost standing and leaning over his desk, "STOP CALLING ME CHIEF!!!"
"I'll drop her off and get a cinnamon roll at the same time."Lois offered, grabbing Kara and pulling her out Perry's office.
"Get me one, too." Perry called, before facepalming with a groan at Lois's"Sure thing, Chief!"
Kara
As Supergirl
@Kevinn
gpt
There was never a dull day in the city of Metropolis.Jessica Hawthornhad grown up in the city and come to enjoy the craziness that came with it but she always dreamed of getting away from it all. Of course she wouldn't stay away for long, after all, it was her home. Sometimes she just wished she could.. Fly away, soar up into the skies and enjoy the silence and the view from above.
The smell of freshly baked bread was already strong in the store when the doors opened for the day. Just like every other day, she woke up nice and early to get started on the fresh batch of bread and pastries for the day. She'd only been open for just under a couple of years but quickly became popular in the area, partly due to her willingness to help others and her kind demeaner, but also because they were, as her clients put it,'the best pastries in town.'
It was no small relief that her business seemed to have worked out so nicely. She'd grown up with her mother, Lisa, after her father left them. He'd beenkindenough to leave them the house they'd been living in before he moved away to Europe. At least that gesture meant her mother could continue to provide for herself and Jessica without working multiple jobs. When Jessica decided to stay home rather than going off to college, her mother decided to use what little savings they had to open the bakery. As a girl, Jessica always enjoyed of baking, she'd always said one day she would own her own bakery, somewhere where people could come in and leave with a smile on their face, and so, for her birthday, the mother surprised her with her very own bakery.
The aspiring baker was unable to accept the gift at first but eventually gave in, dedicating herself almost entirely to it, she gave it all her time and heart and the second day after opening, she had people queuing up to come in at opening. It was unbelievable. Every one of her neighbours, her friends, the community came together and made her little bakery the speak of the neighbourhood. Of course, although business was good, it was far from enough for her to truly repay her mother. The bakery was making enough money to cover its costs and for the girl to have a salary of her own but she would have loved to return the favour to her mother, to help her retire early and enjoy her life as she deserved. Though she was unaware, an opportunity may be on the horizon on what appeared to be just your average day in Metropolis.
"Bye, you have a good day now! Make sure to pass by later with the little one, I'll save her one of her favourites!" She called out to one of her usuals.
human
It wasn't long after the neighborhood patrol officer Grace Merritt, came in for her daily apple fritters, as in one for right away, another for later, and was paying for them, when Lois and Kara walked in. The two raven haired women stared at each other.
"Lois. Staying out of trouble, lately? Haven't fallen out any 15 story windows, needing rescued by a cute blonde in blue and red?" Grace wasn't ashamed of her crush on the strange heroine that graced the skies of Metropolis in the last month. Of course the officer wasn't the only one crushing on the supergirl hero.
"You are so smitten, Grace, you'd probably kiss her before you arrested her."Lois snarked rolling her eyes.
Kara scratched her head."Arrest Supergirl? Why would she arrest her?"She looked at the patrol officer."Actually, wait, why would you KISS her?! You're a female, too!"
Both Lois and Grace shook their heads, as Grace said, "Thanks, Jess, keep up the good work, and buzz me if you need me." She just gave Kara a look that practically screamed 'IDIOT' as she walked out with her bag.
Lois took a breath."If you can find time, Jess, could you help Kara out with her assignment from Perry? Nothing fancy, just a boring li'l human interest story. Oh. And two of those Texas cinnamon rolls of yours. To go. Put a little extra icing on Perry's and box it, please. Mine can just go as is in the bag."After a sigh, she said,"Grace needs to drop it. That accident was a month ago, and vigilante or not, the flying girl that Metropolis is so crazy about, is actually doing good. Wish she'd stop putting me off for an interview, though, and I guess I named her when I wrote 'who is this super girl?', right?"
"That's a neat idea for one of my last questions!"Kara all but squealed."Her opinion on Supergirl!"
Lois couldn't help but snark,"I'm beginning to think you're a natural blonde, Smallville. Unless that joke about the brunettes being dumber IS true, because I think that has GOT to be the dumbest thing you've ever said. The story is about Jess, here, not Supergirl!"
Kara just shrugged, but kept her notepad out. Lois groaned. She wasn't even going to ask where Kara's laptop was. She'd probably see it at Kara's desk at the office. All she could do was mutter"Smallville..."under her breath.
gpt
Although the woman was already on her way out, Jessica still overheard the conversation going in between her and the next customer while taking a fresh batch of muffins out of a nearby oven. The familiar voice of the famous Lois Lane replied to the officer, a voice Jessica knew well. Somehow, the reporter had become something of a regular at the pastry shop, often stopping by for one of her cinnamon rolls. What caught Jess' attention however was the comment on kissing Supergirl.
The red and blue hero had only been around for a short while but quickly earned a fair share of supporters around Metropolis, including one humble baker. In fact, supporter was likely an understatement, the word 'fan' was likely more accurate. Many disapproved of Supergirl, calling her a vigilante, arguing that she shouldn't be above the law, but that was nothing more than politics, the truth was, ordinary people, people like Jessica who nobody looked out for, appreciated having someone to call a hero, someone to save them when the police couldn't.
Returning back to the task at hand, the young baker placed the chocolate chip muffins onto a display tray and turned over to her next customer, giving Grace a nod with a bright smile as she left. "Good Morning Lois." Her bright smile was extended as she welcomed the woman. Jess didn't know much about Lois other than the short interactions they'd had but one thing was always clear, she didn't beat around the bush.
The request came as somewhat of a surprise. At first she wondered how she could possibly help someone with a story but after a quick moment's thought, it hit her. "A story? A-About me?" The words escaped her mouth, a nearby client, a regular, of hers overhearing and commenting aloud."It was only a matter of time! Jess here is the best in the city!" A quick single clap followed his words.
Until this moment, Jess hadn't even realised the person standing slightly behind Lois. She was a familiar face too, someone she'd seen in the shop but never quite had a conversation with. There was something about her that always seemed familiar, the baker often catching herself staring in her direction, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. "Are you sure you have the right person Lois? I really appreciate it but.. What could you possibly write about me?"
Moving to prepare the cinnamon rolls as per the reporter's request, she made sure to listen as she continued speaking. Jessica was about to comment on what she'd said when Kara spoke, resulting in a snarky comment from her mentor. Jess couldn't help but give a little laugh, bringing the two cinnamon rolls prepared as per Lois' request to the counter. "Well, for what it's worth, I think Supergirl is doing a great job. I just wish there were more people like her in the city. She's come here and started saving people and hasn't asked for a single thing in exchange. If that's not worth admiring, I don't know what is... In fact, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you enjoyed getting saved by her Lois, maybe it's not just an interview you're after hm?" She pushed the order across the counter to Lois, giving her a teasing look. "As for the interview, if you really do want to interview me Kara-" She stopped for a moment, directing her attention to the cub reporter. "I would be honored. We can do it over coffee if you'd like."
Jessica turned back to Lois. "These are on the house. For the interview and the support for our local hero. Don't go getting into trouble just to see her again." She teased once more, following up with her usual bright smile.
human
Lois sputtered at the taste of her own medicine she was constantly dosing Kara with, to the point it actually caused the cub reporter to giggle and say,"Touch! You DO obsess over her. And you have admitted the same thing. You just did again, here. She's a vigilante, but still does a lot of good."She then nodded to Jessica and said,"Green tea for me, though. I don't much like the taste of coffee, never did even on the farm where I grew up. And can I have one of your danishes, I've had apple, apricot, berry.... Oh just surprise me with one I haven't tried yet, thanks."She then went over to a two person table and sat down.
Lois recovered from the barb nicely, giving a smile back."I don't really know what it is about your humble business, and yes, I probably deserved that, but see you tomorrow or the next day."Lois hardly ever went to any favorite haunt of hers, except the coffee shop inside the Daily Planet, everyday, so even saying that could mean something to Jessica."See you back at the office later today, Kara, if you can find it with your poor sense of direction. Or, better yet, just text me when you're done. We don't want to call Supergirl out to look for you."She was finally out the door, in her car, and on her way back to the office.
Kara gave a smirk and roll of the eyes that would seem both odd, yet typical for any seemingly rube farm girl in the big city.
gpt
It seemed Kara had taken the opening Jess created to get just a small bit of revenge on her mentor, making the baker giggle a little behind the counter. Kara had always been on the quiet side when visiting but this seemed like a new side of her. "One green tea and a Danish coming right up. Feel free to take a seat and I'll be with you in a moment." The cute baker gestured towards a two person table over in the corner as Lois began to speak.
It seemed the reporter knew how to take a hit, not just dish them out. "My cinnamon buns and I will be looking forward to your next visit Miss Lane." It had been a while since Jessica called her that, having become acquainted with her some time ago, but it had a nice little ring to it.
Kara's eye roll didn't go unnoticed by Jess as Lois left. The two reporters had a bit of a strange dynamic but clearly seemed to get along. She wasn't sure how long they'd been working together but they were clearly friends.
The baker prepared the green tea for Kara and turned to her colleague, a college student she'd hired to help her out a little. "Mind taking over for a few minutes Laura? I'll be right here if you need anything. The girl nodded and Jess took off her apron, grabbing the Danish and green tea for Kara as well as a tea for herself.
"Apologies for the wait Kara. Umm, I'm Jessica, though everyone calls me Jess. We've never officially met though I have seen you around here a few times." The baker smiled sweetly, taking a seat at the table with her. "I got you a special one today. You're going to be my guinea-pig. I haven't actually put these out yet, they're blackberry and cream cheese." She usually saved the new flavours for her mother to try but seeing how much Kara loved danishes, it only seemed appropriate.
"So umm, how does this work? I really don't know what on earth I could tell you."
human
Kara, nodding and thanking her for the danish and tea, wasn't quite sitting with her crossed legs under the table, almost like she was trying to show them off. Maybe not to Jessica, but anyone who came in. Of course there wasn't a whole lot of room under the table, so perhaps this farm girl was a lot smarter than she pretended. She took a bite of the danish and her eyes bugged out, a huge smile crossed her face, causing her lips to slightly pucker, and she nodded her approval. After a sip of tea, Kara began,"It works almost like my interview when I got my job at the Daily Planet, and was interviewed by Mr. White."She explained."Except I'm asking things like your name; some of your history, or at least what you want Metropolis to know, I mean even I know that the Planet and the Sentinel are the most popular of Metropolis' many papers; how did the idea of the bakery come about; other things you may want to share, as it's sorta your biography up to this point. I'll give you a sample. My biography. My name is Kara Lee Kent and I'm originally from Smallville, Kansas, where I grew up on a farm. I was pretty much a tomboy, and a big help for my Ma and Pa. I was on the school paper and track team, and set a speed record just last year in the 1000 meter dash, and another record in the long jump. I just graduated high school in May, and came to Metropolis over the summer, looking for an internship. I was a huge fan of Lois Lane's and jumped at studying under her. I completely forgot she won a Pulitzer until she reminded me today. I actually wanted to do the story on her, til she and Mr. White said it had to be like a more regular person like you. So, yeah, I've only been here about two, two and a half months."And Supergirl showed up a month after Kara had. Kara went quiet, knowing much more of her history would connect her a little too close to Supergirl. She didn't want or need that. She wanted people to like her for Kara Kent of Smallville, Kansas, not her blonde hero persona. And she definitely didn't need LOIS to know. That's why she'd been turning down those interview requests from her mentor. She opened her notebook to a blank page."Oh, and don't worry about me missing anything? I'm probably the fastest shorthand note taker on the Daily Planet. I think I actually pissed Lois off on that, and that's why she's so hard on me. She used to be the fastest."
Maybe she had said too much after all, and held her breath. One thing Martha Kent had always got on her adopted daughter about... Was her big mouth. "If you aren't careful, your mouth is going to get you into a ton of trouble, young lady!" She'd been scolded a lot, growing up.
gpt
Though she didn't quite say the words, judging by Kara's reaction when she took a bite of the Danish, it seemed fairly clear that she enjoyed it, a nod of approval confirming it. After that though, the reporter got straight to business, the baker listening closely.
Although the interview was to be about her, Kara was nice enough to tell Jess about herself first, providing an example of what she wanted from her. "Wow, you really are impressive Kara, I had no idea." Jessica had noticed the woman's legs, they looked just about as perfect as legs could get and her story said it all. "No wonder you look so great, farm work must be hard! You're like the human version of Supergirl, athletic, smart and good looking.. AND you're both new to Metropolis." Jessica had just connected the dots without even realising it. It may have seemed silly but Supergirl was too... Super to be a normal civilian. Nobody as incredible as her could have gone by unnoticed so the thought never crossed the bakers mind.
Taking a small breather to sip her tea, Jessica thought about her own backstory. "Well, as you already know, my name is Jessica, Jessica Hawthorn. I'm from right here in Metropolis, live only a few blocks away. The idea of the bakery was actually my mother's. I've always enjoyed baking and well, in what I thought was a pretty crazy gesture on her part, she got me my very own bakery. It took all of her savings too so I just had to make it work. From day one my motivation is to have everyone who comes in through that door, leaving with a smile. If I can make their day just that tiny bit better, then I can go back to my mother with no regrets. I guess it's kind of why I admire Supergirl so much, she can really make a difference." She paused for a moment, her eyes looking up to the skies. "It must get lonely though, being able to do so much and not share it with others. I do hope she has someone to tell her how proud they are at the end of the day." A longing smile painted across her face before she shook her head. "Anyway, about me..."
Jessica went on to inform the reporter about how her second day already had a queue at the door and since then it just escalated. "It's the community y'know.. They're always willing to help, they've always helped mum and me so this is my way to pay them back. I think that's about all there is to know though, as you can see, I'm just a baker. There's nothing Super about me, just your friendly neighbourhood baker who chose pastries over college. Nothing special."
As she said those last words, she removed a strand of hair from her face, her eyes looking slightly disheartened for a moment as she said the last words. What she hadn't said was how she spent most of her life being invisible to others, how she never truly made any friends outside the neighbourhood and her customers. She'd daydream of waking up one day as Supergirl and being able to do some real good in the way and come back home to her loving family but in reality, it was just her and mum at the end of the day, nobody else.
"I hope I didn't deviate too far from the subject." She finally said, snapping out of the momentary daze and bringing back the smile everyone was used to seeing.
human
Kara looked at her notes, and then to Jessica."And you call me impressive?"She asked. An awkward silence and a few more bites of danish, and she cleared her throat."A few follow up questions if you don't mind. Were your abilities to bake and make these pastries you just somehow knew how to do, or was it actually through a trial and error kind of thing? How soon did you have like returning customers every day? Also, were there maybe home ec teachers or celebrity chefs you watched and took notes from?"Kara was looking to both round out the story, giving it more substance, as well as being, well, Supergirl (she couldn't help it) by showing Jessica that just because she wasn't noticed, didn't mean she wasn't special. Jessica was plenty special. Her success said that. Kara actually found herself crushing and maybe just a hint of actually falling in love for the first time. She shook her head, clearing it. With her double schedule anyway, where would she find time for romance, and who's to say Jessica even wanted to date a girl? Her heart was screaming it, but her traditions were already accusing her of what she all but called Officer Merritt. A pervert. Another close of the eyes as she sipped her tea and finished her danish. She looked expectantly at Jessica, who Kara couldn't help but notice as gorgeous in her eyes, anyway, for her response.
gpt
A red hue coloured her cheeks as Kara called the baker impressive. It was only then, during the few awkward moments of silence that followed that Jessica truly stopped to look at exactly who she had next to her. It wasn't just her legs or those beautiful eyes hidden away behind the glasses, Kara was an amazing person herself. Being the odd person she was, Jess had never really had time for dating, never really focused on herself, instead rushing home to help her mother. She had never stopped to wonder if she preferred men or women, though she always did find the feminine body more.. Attractive, more delicate. She soon found herself blushing further as she began to view the reporter with different eyes, shying away from hers for a moment until the silence was finally broken.
"Oh.. Well, I'm not entirely sure. At first I started following a recipe book when I was younger. My mother got it for me on my fourteenth birthday. Then I started to experiment on my own flavours and combinations. I guess you could say it was trial and error, though, it's like everything else, experience. Once you start playing around with flavours, tweaking recipes, you just develop a sort of sense for it. Nowadays I can usually tell if something is going to work when I come up with it. That's not to say I don't make mistakes though, every now and then it does happen. Fortunately I have mum to test all my new creations, and, well, you too it seems. That is, if you'd like..." She blushed a little once more as she subtly showed that she hoped to see the reporter again, hopefully in a less formal manner.
"As for teachers and chefs.. There was a teacher who gave me some tips in school, Mrs Gibbons, she really helped to bring out my love for baking. Sadly she passed away not long before I opened this place up. I do wish she could have tasted one of my pastries, maybe thank her for helping me back then." There was a brief sadness to her eyes. Loss was something that deeply hurt Jessica, she cared for those around her with all her heart and, when they weren't around any more, she missed them with all her heart too.
"I do think that's about it though, of course I enjoy watching others bake and see their creations but I'm just a small baker, far from the real professionals." Her tone had cheered up, moving on from the sad story and trying to bring a lighter air to the conversation.
human
Kara blushed as she was singled out as one of Jessica's two taste testers. She was already in love with her cherry cream cheese danish, and wow did the blackberry one hit the spot, too. She nodded, still feeling the warmth of her flushed cheeks, as she took notes about how and where Jessica got her baking prowess from. She bit her lower lip, and although the question of when she started to get regulars wasn't answered, Kara was more distracted by the offer of trying other flavors. Apparently, her favorite Sunkist soda was on her mind as she blurted what may or may not be random words to the baker."Orange-Mango. Danish. I mean, yes, sure. I'd... Ahem... I'd be honored."Her blush grew to almost cover her whole face, forehead to chin, and one ear to the other. Her smile showed a bit of both her crush and naivete."Why... Umm... Why don't I... Ahem... Gi-give you my number...?"She fumbled for one of her cards, which she had left at the office with her laptop, so she didn't have one, and finally wrote her personal cell number and name on a blank sheet of her notepad paper and laid the piece shyly down."Ahem... I should ask now if you mind, at the end of my story, to use that one line..."She quickly looked through her notes,"Here. Here it is. That you admire Supergirl and hope she has someone to tell her how proud they are at the end of the day."She shrugged."I mean, even Supergirl has to read the Planet, right? Who doesn't?"She fumbled for her cell,"I think that covers everything and thanks for your time and help and, yeah, the new Danish flavor. Think you'll have another winner there, at least with me."She blushed again as she shyly looked up.
Kara didn't know she almost blew her cover as the paper with her number, said, "S Kara L Kent", hopefully, Jessica would take it, since Kara was fumbling right at the end, she had just forgotten the M first, for Ms. After all, there was no period after her L either.
gpt
She could have sworn she felt her heart skip a beat as Kara's face turned a shade of red. Jess certainly made a mental note of the orange-mango flavour combination but the reporter's next few words took over all her attention. It was at that moment that her own face turned a bright red, her eyes looking away, down at the piece of paper.
"R-right." She replied herself. "Orange-mango. I'll make it um.. Just for you." If it was even possible, she blushed even further as she said the words. Fortunately however the subject did change a little when Kara asked about whether her worlds about Supergirl could be used in the article. Of course Jessica had no problem with it but she couldn't help but wonder whether her mentor would feel the same.
"Hmm.. I'm more than happy for you to use anything I said.. However, I'm not sure Lois will agree to it. She might get upset if you go ahead with it." No matter what, she had the feeling that Kara would make the article great, she trusted the reporter, something about her made her want to trust her. Lois on the other hand didn't seem to fond of Kara mentioning Supergirl in her article earlier.
With the interview over, it seemed like Kara was preparing to head out. It felt a little sad that it was done already, that she had to go. Jessica was quite enjoying their time together. She was enjoying Kara's company, her smile, her eyes, the way she spoke, how she made her feel special. She didn't want to wait for next time so she would just have to make sure next time came soon.
"Thank you for the interview and for, Umm, being my guinea-pig..And your number." She mumbled the last few words, enough that they'd be hard for anyone with normal hearing capacity to catch. "I'll start work on that special danish right away, I'll make sure to, uh, well, umm, call you once it's d-done." God, she was a mumbling mess. She'd never gotten so flustered over anything or anyone. How embarrassing could she possibly make things.
It was only once the woman got up that Jess took a look at the piece of paper. 'S Kara L Kent' she read, wondering exactly what the S could stand for. Having read it, she looked up, watching the woman leave, feeling a flutter within her that she'd never quite felt before. Did she have a.. Crush on the reporter? Could it be? That she was falling in love? There were so many questions and yet she didn't quite have the answers.
human
Kara, not being your average person with average hearing, clearly heard the and your number, causing her to turn beet red, but since her back was to Jessica at the time, it wasn't likely Jessica would see or make the connection. Letting her face cool down as she called Lois for a pickup, Kara mumbled, but a lot more verbal than Jessica's part about the phone number."Welcome. Umm, and sure, any experience, err, experiments, I mean, with, of the danish variety, I'm your girl."
When Lois came, Kara looked right in the window and hopefully catching Jessica looking back, held up her phone and mouthedCall me!
The next few days flew by and Lois actually did pop in, but this time with a huge lunch/dessert order just before noon. Pretty much half her floor at the Daily Planet wanted a donut or pastry, one staffer, Perry himself, wanted an 8" round yellow cake with flowers, pink, and Supergirl's S logo on it,, and "Happy Sweet 16" in the three primary colors. Happy in yellow, Sweet in blue, 16 in red.
Lois noticed the paper on the counter and it turned to Kara's article on Jessica with the title, "The Unknown Super Girl"
"Perry loved it, and Smallville went over my head... And even admitted to Perry she went over my head. He had the gall to actually tell her he was glad she went over my head! Jess, she really was supposed to clear it through me, but even after reading it, I have to admit, it wouldn't have been the same without the comparison, and it actually cut my heart the last line about why you admire Supergirl and hope she has someone."
The bell dinged as a new customer walked in and the whole line started congregating around her, calling her name."Uhh, thanks, yes, um, your welcome... Uh,"she blushed."P-p-put your shirt down... Please... I um... Sorry, I... I don't sign body parts..."She looked forlorn toward the front."A little help, please? I have a message from Kara Kent to Jessica Hawthorne... And I think I need a little crowd control..."One question must have caused the heroine fear because after a startled gasp, she said, blushing heavily,"Ohmigosh! I don't think I'm old enough for that! I don't think YOU'RE old enough either!"She was looking right at the elderly man who was wearing a smirk.
He hobbled back in line grinning, saying, "Was worth a shot..."
gpt
The last words she heard from Kara would stick with Jessica for the following days.'I'm your girl.'Every time she remembered the words she would blush. Of course there was no way Kara meant them in the way that Jess so badly wanted, right? She just meant she was willing to try her pastries, surely, yeah. Still, she kept the words in her mind, along with the image of the gorgeous woman mouthing the words to call her, and dedicated herself to creating the requested danish.
A large group of tourists had just taken their order when Lois returned to the bakery. Up until now, the ace reporter had always wanted the same thing, she stuck to the cinnamon bun and seemed happy with it. This time around however it was a far larger order. Fortunately the order had been made in advance and Jess already had it all prepared, gathering the last few bits as Lois began speaking about the article.
Jessica herself could hardly believe it when she'd read it. Kara actually compared her to Supergirl! That alone already brought in all kinds of customers as soon as the article hit the streets. She had been busier than ever, leaving little time to perfect the creation she had at hand. "I really can't believe she did that. I told her you wouldn't approve." She tried to sound stern but was blushing, a giddy sensation inside. "I'm not complaining though.. Thanks to the two of you this place has been crazy, I might even have to consider expanding or hiring help. I can barely keep up with orders."
The Baker was about to continue speaking when there was the sound of a bell and an immediate uproar, Jess lifting her head, only to have her jaw drop. The baker was startled, frozen in place, for a moment she had even forgotten how to breathe, repeating this once more when the blonde woman spoke her name, saying she had a message from Kara Kent.
It took a few moments for her to snap out of it but she eventually managed to breathe in deeply, composing herself a little, just enough to speak. "P-please everyone.. Calm down. Let Umm.. Umm.. S-Supergirl pass, she's a c-customer, like everyone else." Except she wasn't like everyone else, she was freakin Supergirl, in her store, in real life. It took everything she had not to be fangirling in front of her.
human
Lois had just produced her phone and said something about seeing the cake Perry wanted, when Supergirl walked in. The poor heroine barely got in the door when she was mobbed, actually to the point jaded Lois Lane, who hadn't had any date in recent memory actually pitied her."You heard Jess, people,"She barked,"Break it up and let her breathe."
Supergirl thanked both and came up to the counter."You'd think I'd be used to that by now."She said catching her breath.
Lois pounced."Is this why you keep denying me an interview? Because after witnessing that for myself..."
Supergirl held up the stop sign and Lois actually put on the brakes of her question."First, I do need to deliver my message? I want to talk to you, but not be interviewed. You're half-right Miss Lane. The mob scene is part of it."She looked at Jessica."Are you Miss Hawthorne?"She went into her cape and produced a bottle of Sunkist Orange-Mango soda, still cold. Out of the same seeming "pocket" came a pair of recognizable tickets. The sold out concert, one night only, of Candy Pop's world tour, the following night at seven."She only asks you leave her a voice message when I got these to you, and hopefully with a yes attached."She shook her head and chuckled."She was speaking in some Earth language I must not know, because I barely understood what she was going on about."
Lois chuckled."Yup. You were definitely talking to Smallville, then. She has been all over the board for the last few days. It's called twitterpated."
Supergirl shook her head."I'm sorry. What is... Twitter pated?"
Lois pointed to the paper and the article, made the motion of a heart, pointed to Jessica and then made like bird motions with her flapping hands and throwing kisses."Twitterpated. Understand?"She pretty much was talking to Supergirl like she would have Kara.
Supergirl smirked with a head shake."I don't understand what you are talking about, Miss Lane. Would you like me to fly you to the hospital? I do know a crush when I see one, and brother or sister, she's got one bad. Maybe even in love."With a wink, she said,"And I think you might be crushing yourself."
The hard boiled reporter suddenly felt very scrambled, and blushed."Right. Jess, Perry asked me to get a picture of the cake, so can you undo it real quick?And also, how much do I, or rather half of floor 15 of the Daily Planet, owe you?"
She also looked back at Supergirl behind her, analyzing her."You and Smallville have a lot in common. Yet nothing whatsoever. For example, I swear she could get lost in a broom closet! You get lost with vocabulary you don't understand."
Supergirl laughed. Yes, it was aimed at her civilian self, but it struck her so funny, she actually laughed."Nobody can be that dumb, Miss Lane, come on now."
Lois peered at her."How well do you know Kara Kent, Supergirl? I work with her five days a week, sometimes as much as ten hours a day."
Supergirl blushed, shut her mouth and had nothing to say to the star reporter.
"That's what I thought. Sorry to burst your balloon, I'm surprised you haven't had to rescue HER yet."Lois commented turning to catch the photos Perry wanted, of not just the cake but everything else, too.
gpt
Fortunately, where Jessica lacked the ability to move, it seemed not even in the presence of THE Supergirl, did Lois Lane find herself phased. All she did was watch as the scene unfolded, the people making space for the heroic blonde to move towards her. Lois was able to speak so casually to Jess' hero that it actually made the baker a little jealous as the two exchanged words, a healthy jealousy which quickly dissipated when the blue eyes looked towards her.
With widened eyes and a somewhat shaky voice, the baker replied, nodding alone with her word. "Y-Yes." That's all she could muster up without becoming a blabbering mess in front of the blonde who proceeded to producing a bottle of soda along with two concert tickets. Though Jess wasn't one to go to concerts, given she never quite had the time, even she recognised the tickets. It was all over the news how it sold out in record time, one of the hardest events to get to of the century. If she hadn't been at a loss for words previously, she certainly was now.
"A.. V-voice message. Right. Yes. Right. Voice message." She repeated the words a few times, almost as though to make sure she understood them herself. Meanwhile, Lois of course didn't miss her chance to make a little jab at her protg. Though she wasn't present, the reporter clearly had made a habit of throwing quips her way. Once more, the two began chatting while the entire crowd watched them, as though it were the most casual scene on the planet.
Though she watched the exchange between the two, Jessica felt like she was missing something. Perhaps it was due to her current state of awe at the fact that Supergirl was in her bakery but she couldn't quite understand what was going on. Heck, if she hadn't known any better, she'd have thought Lois was telling Supergirl that Kara had a crush on.. on the baker herself. The thoughts and feelings were becoming more than she could handle. Was Kara really crushing over her? Was the concert a... date? What should she wear? Was Kara friends with Supergirl? Did Lois actually have a crush on Supergirl too? Or was the blonde just teasing her back? Why had Supergirl delivered the message herself? Did she like pastries? Did she want one? Was this all a dream?"
With all the noise in her mind, she almost didn't catch Lois' request for a picture of the cake. In fact, it did take her a few seconds to react, only actually moving when the college student she had there nudged her. She prepared the cake for a photo as the reporter requested, her face flushed red from all the information she was trying to assimilate. Lois' order was ready, she'd taken the items Supergirl had brought her, she was beginning to breathe again. She focused on the bottle of soda for a moment, quickly understanding the reason behind it which helped her get back to herself, smiling once again.
"Thank you for um.. Bringing these S-Supergirl. I can't really let you leave here empty handed though, please, take something before you leave, anything you want, on the house, for everything you do for us. You shouldn't be the only one taking care of us, we can help you too." She'd always thought the heroine might have felt lonely, this was probably the only chance she would ever have to try and give back a tiny piece of everything she did for Metropolis. "And please, take care of yourself."
The baker did turn to Lois now that she was back to her usual self, albeit with a slight stutter still in her words. "And Lois.. Didn't we speak about your crush on Supergirl just the other day? It seems I'm not the only one under the impression."
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Lois looked over to Supergirl as her own crush got put right where she had to face it. Again."Ridiculous."She scoffed."I do NOT have a crush on Supergirl. Preposterous."She cleared her throat and said,"so how much for all these goodies? A half dozen cream puffs, the decorated 8" round cake, a baker's dozen mixed donuts and my usual cinnamon roll."She pulled out an envelope that apparently held the office's pooled moneys for the items, with an amount written on it of $50. Perry's cake for his niece was easily $18-20 of that.
She and Supergirl both rolled their eyes at the same time as Jessica mentioned taking care of herself. Lois sighed. She'd let the heroine field that one. She was still feeling a bit scrambled from Supergirl's comeback earlier.
"While I appreciate the gesture, Miss Jessica, I'm sort of invulnerable. Not much can harm me."A bright smile."I love taking care of Metropolis, but I will take you up on that, Kara told me you make stellar cheesecake danishes?"Actually it was CREAM cheese with some fruit,"Cherry, blackberry, are there any others? If not, I'll try a cherry cheesecake one."
Lois was growling under her breath, but she finally let it out. Loudly."SMALLVILLE!!!"After her temper flare, she said."Yeah. She told you wrong. Not necessarily a lie, more a misnaming. Jess has CREAM cheese danishes, not cheeseCAKE danishes. Huge difference. And Kara's getting an earful when I get back to the office! You can take THAT to the bank!"
Supergirl's eyes bugged out."Wow. Uh. Okay, Miss Lane. Don't be too hard on her if it's as simple as misnaming something."She looked at Jess."So, what are the flavors of these cream cheese danishes? She raves about the blackberry, but I'd like to know the selection before going with her suggestion. Or sticking with mine. Cherry."
Everyone waited with bated breath. Even Lois. The bakery might get busier yet, because no way was Lois Lane going to pass up the opportunity to get one up on Kara Kent by printing Supergirl's favorite pastry. It was interesting that Supergirl also liked danishes... Not uncommon, a lot of Metropolis liked danishes, but interesting that the two newest residents of Metropolis liked the same TYPE of pastry. Lois's mind was already working and analyzing.
gpt
Though Jessica only joked about Lois crushing on Supergirl, judging by the reporter's reaction there may have been a bit of that deep down. Who could blame her though? Supergirl was everything anyone could ever want to be. The Baker herself had her own little crush on the hero as did a good percentage of the people in Metropolis.
As the baker quickly calculated the total for Lois, the eye roll that both women gave her didn't go unnoticed, even as she listened to the seemingly invincible woman reassure her, she would still insist on the fact that even she needed to be taken care of from time to time.
Jess was chuckling lightly at the blonde's short ramble on the flavours, noticing that Kara hadn't quite gotten the flavour recommendation right, but she knew which she meant. She was just about to intervene and correct the superhero and tell Lois the total when she jumped back slightly, scared by the reporter herself as she let her temper out, instigated by Kara's mistake.
Once the daily planet's ace reporter's rant was over however, it was laughter that erupted from Jess for a moment, slightly in disbelief at how seriously Lois seemed to take her flavours and the fact that she considered it worth giving Kara an earful over it.
Attention was quickly shifted over to Supergirl as she began asking about the flavours of the different danishes. "Hmm well, we have a few different ones. The blackberry is my newest creation, it has become quite popular. Then we have your standard cream cheese on its own, not everyone wants it fruity it seems, cherry as you already mentioned also, orange, peach, and apple. Since it's your first time trying them, I would recommend the cherry, can't go wrong with what you already like.. Right?" It seemed like once it came to her baking, the nerves fro talking to Supergirl did disappear somewhat, instead replacing them with a smile. That was, until she looked up at the blonde and her shyness returned, averting her eyes with a slight blush.
"Umm, as for you Lois, that'll be $43." She prepared the change, handing the money over to the woman together with everything neatly placed in a carrier bag. "I threw in an extra something for Kara since you didn't get her anything." Her tone changed slightly, almost telling the reporter off. "It's one of the blackberry ones, since she seemed to enjoy it."
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Lois actually ignored the tone, and said as she grabbed the bag,"She didn't ask.... Blackberry cream cheese? Since when?! Don't you mean either the orange cream cheese or the plain apricot? Those are the two she usually goes between."
Supergirl told on herself,"When I was getting the tickets and soda from her, she mentioned she was the first to try the blackberry cream cheese and fell in love with it. It makes sense if that's her new favorite. And I'll go ahead with the cherry cream cheese, Miss Jessica. Thank you, kindly."
Lois nodded to both Supergirl and Jess, muttered under her breath something clearly that would have been aimed at Kara, and left. If only she knew the truth, she probably would have torn Supergirl a new one right there in front of everyone.
Supergirl leaned on the counter."Really want to make me something I'd like and get every day? And be more than willing to pay for? A jalapeno with cream cheese danish. I went to the Latino bakery up the street when I first arrived, tried one, and wow. I usually stop there but wanted something a little cooler for my tongue today. Besides, I wanted to meet the unknown me."She smiled brightly again,"Plus doing the favor for Kara. I have a feeling someone else was asked first... But she seems sore at Kara for some reason. At least at the moment. More than just going over her head for a story."She then pointed to the tickets,"I wouldn't wait to give her an answer, if I were you. I'm actually a little jealous, and relieved, she didn't ask me. And think... What just happened here? That's why I can't go to any concerts. I'd probably steal the bands' spotlight. I definitely don't want to do that. Everyone deserves a chance to shine."She stepped back to wait on her danish and go in her cape, pulling out her (well, Kara's) cell phone and turned it off."On second thought, I'll have that danish, here, please."Messages would still get through, but Jessica would reach voicemail after a partial ring, now. A reporter should be busy right now.
gpt
It seemed that Kara hadn't given Lois all the details about their interview. The Baker was about to mention that her protg had tried it then when Supergirl intervened, explaining the situation. It really made Jessica wonder just how well the hero new Kara, the two clearly having had a conversation at the very least, though it seemed more than that. Why was Supergirl acting as a messenger for a cub reporter?
"Right, coming right up!" Her mind returned to the task at hand as Supergirl made her order and Lois turned to make her way out. "Have a good day Lois, hope everyone enjoys and Umm.. Say Hi to Kara for me!" A faint shade of pink coloured her cheeks as she said the last few words. Her attention however was quickly taken by the heroine as she leaned on the counter.
Jalapeo with cream cheese. The young baker's mind was blown instantly. She could already picture it, almost taste it even. The thought hadn't even crossed her mind but it sounded like a match made in heaven, of course it was no other than Supergirl who gave her the idea. It was the blonde heroines other words that really got to her though. 'The unknown me.' Jess turned red once more as she took the danish from the display. "I.. I Umm.. I never said.. Kara just.. She.. I don't know what she was thinking, she.. I would never.." Once again, she was a mumbling mess. "She Umm.. She overestimates me.. I'm just a b-baker."
Her breathing had become a little faster from the nerves of the situation and now, now Supergirl was encouraging her to call Kara? And she was going to have the Danish in the bakery? A crowd was already gathering outside after word had spread that Supergirl was there but it seemed it would only be the beginning.
Serving the danish to the heroine, Jess did however recompose herself enough to let her empathetic, protective side make another appearance. Supergirl's words about the concert hadn't gone unnoticed by the baker and she made it clear. "It's not fair though. You should be able to. I know you're not like us, I know you're special, that you can do the most amazing things but.. You deserve to live too. There's no reason you shouldn't be able to enjoy yourself. If you don't.. You'll just get lonely. Why save the world if you can't live your life too?" She was only asking rhetorically but, at the same time, truly wondered why anybody would do such a thing. The baker sighed." Sorry. I Umm.. I guess it's none of my business really. However, as long as I'm here, you'll always be welcome in my bakery, I'll make sure they treat you like another person. I'll have a word with anyone who does otherwise." She looked around at the people, directing her next word at them. "Understood?"
It wasn't often that Jessica out on a serious face and even then, it only lasted for a moment before her usual smile returned. "The truth is.. I really want to go to this concert with Kara, I've never been to a concert before. But, well, if you'd like to go with her, if you'd like to have a normal day for once, or try to, I'm sure she would understand it if you went with her. You two seem to be friends. I'm sure she wants what's best for you too." To say she wanted to go was an understatement of course, she had been jumping of excitement in her mind at the thought, already wondering what she would wear, but Supergirl sacrificed so much for Metropolis, Jessica could surely sacrifice one concert.
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Supergirl watched as the baker started going to pieces seemingly."I know, I read the article. We're being compared because of our similar traits. That was to grab the attention of the reader. It definitely grabbed mine. I'm sure Lois already got on her about the headline, but you have to admit, with your humble beginnings and demeanor, you could probably be me in another universe. That's not even that hard for me to picture, just from the way you're sticking up for me right now. You know what that's called where I'm from? :bysh. Pronounced m.bIs.* It means friend. And that's all I want most of all. To make friends."She shook her head, and said in a whisper,"Miss Jessica... Kara doesn't like me in that way. And I'd feel horrible taking your place. I'm a :bysh, I think she wants a shd:bysh. sedm.bIs.* uhh, GIRLfriend. I could be wrong on that, but a soda and tickets to a concert? Where I'm from that's going steady. I don't know what it is here. She was pretty specific the tickets are for you and her. I wouldn't feel right intruding on that."She gave a wink, pointing to her ears,"Besides, super hearing? Loud concert? I don't think that'll mix very well. I don't want to be a distraction. Go. Have fun. Just tell me about it next time I come in, deal? I did just ask if you could make the jalapeno cream cheese danish."Even her blue eyes seemed to sparkle with selflessness.
*The I looks like a Roman numeral one and both the s's are long and squiggly. from the Kryptonian dictionary.
gpt
Just as Supergirl said, Jessica was well aware that the title was meant to grab the reader's attention but it still felt unrealistic to her to be compared to someone as great as the heroine. Not only that, but, the blonde went on to say how in a different universe the humble baker may have very well been Supergirl. It was unthinkable to her of course, if it had come from anyone else it would have almost sounded blasphemous even, but coming from Supergirl herself, well, it resulted in a surprised look and a shy "thank you."
Under different circumstances, Jessica might have been intrigued by Supergirls language, she'd have likely asked more about it, wanted to learn it, however, the context of what the blonde was saying was more than enough to throw her into another mental breakdown. Though it clarified that Kara and Supergirl were friends, even that went right over Jess' mind, there were only two words that remained.. shd:bysh.. Girlfriend. "G-g-g-girlfriend? Me?" Her face went bright rend, her fair complexion unable to hide it. Did Kara really want her to be her girlfriend? Did Kara like women? Why her? Why Jess? She'd never had a girlfriend, what was she even supposed to do? Questions flooded her mind once again, unable to answer them as her breathing accelerated once more, her hands on the counter to steady herself as her legs felt weak.
"I.. You really think she.. Umm.. Wants me to be her.. G-girlfriend? Me?" She was still unable to believe it. "I.. Right, yes.. No, a concert and your super hearing probably wouldn't go well together, that's true." Though she moved on from the subject, her eyes were looking right through Supergirl, her mind still on Kara. "Jalapeo cream cheese, I'll definitely work on that one. It could be a game changer. Maybe I'll name it after you." Her last words were bolder than she'd have typically said to the blonde heroine but given her state, she wasn't quite thinking straight.
Regaining her sense of reality, she suddenly looked up at Supergirl, a serious look in her eyes." I'm really sorry, I've got to go make a call. I Umm.. I need to call Kara. Please enjoy your danish, I really do hope you like it. Like I said, you can stay here long as you like and enjoy it, I'll make sure nobody bothers you." She didn't give much time for a reply, shuffling to the back area and searching for her handbag, taking her phone and immediately calling the cub reporter.
As she called, it quickly went to voicemail, giving her a moment to take a deep breath before starting. "Hi Kara, it's Umm.. It's Jessica, from the bakery. I just received you... Message? From Supergirl. I.. Well, thank you for the soda, it'll definitely help, and, well, I would love to go to the concert with you. I'll be looking forward to it.. And to seeing you again." The message ended and Jessica took a deep breath, making her way back outside to the bakery after a few moments to collect herself.
human
Supergirl had waited just long enough to feel the vibration from the phone (which was on airplane mode, not completely off), before finishing the last of the danish and leaving. Unbeknownst to her, a list she had made herself in Kryptonian, had slipped out of the cape pocket and landed on the floor at the table where she had eaten. The odd symbols wouldn't be understood, but the Roman numeral bullet points, would. There were seven, numbered I-VII. The last one checked off was IV, so would have had to be regarding Jess and the bakery. There was even a side note, in Earth English in the margin on the left side of the IV, in a flowery cursive writing, "don't forget to ask about the jalapeno." An obvious note to herself.
Kara would get back to Jessica a few hours later, about three in the afternoon. She sounded winded, and a little worried."Hey, Jess, Kara. Glad you're coming with me to the concert, so, I hope you like modern dance light rock type along the lines of Pink and Selena Gomez and the like, cuz that's what Candy Pop is. Umm. }Sigh{ where could I have left it? Sorry. Distracted. Concert's at seven at the Metropolis Opera House, so you know it's gonna be big and loud. Should I pick you up at the bakery say five-thirty-ish? I'll be getting off at four thirty, but want to make sure you've had time to close up, yet we have enough time to find a place to park. Lois is letting me borrow her car, so, that's what to look for. Let me know if you want some ear protection plugs, wait that's not the right word... Sound blockers?"
Jess would have the list overnight, as Supergirl wouldn't be back until the next morning, the day of the concert, and in line, waiting for the bakery to open, with an obviously embarrassed look on her face. How hard would it be not to try to break the code of Supergirl's language?
gpt
It had been a while since the baker felt so tired at the end of a work day. It had certainly been eventful to say the least. Even feeling as tired as she did however, the thought of going to the concert with Kars the following day was giving her the adrenaline boost she needed to clean up after the store had shut. She was just about done with it when she noticed a piece of paper, tucked away under a table. The Baker picked it up as any normal person would, and, tried to see who it belonged to. The owner quickly became apparent judging by the symbols on it.. Supergirl.
Just as Jessica was about to try and read what the note actually said, her phone rang and she rushed to the back, wondering if it would finally be Kara. She wasn't wrong. The baker took a breath and picked up the phone. She listened to her crush tell her about the concert, and the plan to get there, but couldn't help but notice her a little short of breath. Working with Lois however, it didn't entirely surprise her. If Lois was anything like she imagined at work, it's a miracle Kara could even keep up.
"That sounds absolutely amazing. Five thirty is perfect, I'll make sure to be ready by then, I promise." The baker hadn't thought about transportation, but fortunately it seemed that Lois, even while being unhappy with her cub reporter, had them covered. "I'm sure I'll be fine, no need to worry. I'm just.. Umm.. I'll be looking forward to it. To seeingyoutomorrow. I'll make sure to bring you a little surprise too, as a thank you for the soda and the tickets.. And the article!"
After a nice, long, hot shower, Jessica could finally rest for the day, letting herself drop flat onto her back on her bed and reaching into her bag to pull out the piece of paper she'd found in the bakery, along with her phone. She tried to research some of the symbols online but had no luck doing so. The farthest she got was deciding that the part on the left were roman numerals and it must have been some sort of to-do list, judging by how things seemed to be scribbled off. Eventually she gave up on it for the night and fell asleep shortly after, exhausted from a long day and looking forward to the following one.
When she awoke, nice and early as usual, she quickly went to her wardrobe, carefully picking out an outfit for the concert. She didn't want to feel cold while there but wanted to look as cute as she could for Kara. She chose a flower blue dress, hoping that seeing as it was summer and it would be indoors, it shouldn't be too cold. Following her usual morning routine she got to the bakery early and began to bake the goods for the day, along with running some tests she needed to run. She needed it to work. Before long, opening time had come.
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As the door opened and the crowd filtered in, Jessica would see two familiar faces, a strawberry blonde high school teen girl who was constantly asking if she was hiring, and Supergirl, who was waiting patiently for her chance to get in the door. Grace, the patrol officer, was also there. One order was almost a guarantee. Two apple fritters.
"Hi, Miss Jessica," since most high schoolers greeted her such, it might make Jessica think Supergirl was a high school student. Possibly a senior, "Remember me? Elizabeth? Have you thought of hiring anybody on yet?" She glanced behind her at the huge crowd. "I could do things like serving, wiping down tables, try to cut you some slack instead of trying to do so much." She then pulled a ten out of her purse. "And mom wants her usual Thursday dozen mixed for her book club, please." She'd follow Jessica to the counter and the crowd would follow her.
All the tables would be taken by the time it was Grace's turn with Supergirl sort of slightly behind her, just like another raven haired woman had a certain brunette behind her... Only Supergirl was staring at her feet instead of the eyes taking everything in that Kara had from behind Lois.
After getting her fritters, the patrol officer teased the heroine, "Cheer up, hero, it's a bright day, what wind is blowing is off Metropolis Bay, and Candy Pop's in town. And, the mayor just gave you the key to the city, yesterday, that means MPD can't touch you without the fat cat probablysittingon whoever eventriesto cuff you and stuff you." She patted the shoulder of the blonde, after kissing her cheek, as she went back out the door.
Supergirl touched the spot where the officer kissed her, turning a bit carnation pink, as she came to the counter and pulled out a couple of dollars. Without looking up, she quietly asked,"I need a cinnamon roll peace offering... And if you ah... Mighta found my list yesterday?"
There were only a limited number of people that got Jessica's Texas size cinnamon rolls. All prominent. And talking behind turned to who couldSupergirlhave pissed off. Most were saying Lois Lane, others the mayor, a few the new 20something college professor who specialized in antiquities. One broke it down, "Lara? Possibly. The mayor? Well, she was a few minutes late for the ceremony, and even apologized. Lois? Whodoesn'tpiss her off? Even accidentally?"
gpt
As she looked at the queue already formed, the baker could already tell it would be a long day. She quickly saw the faces of several regulars, as well as one less-regular but very recognisable face. The first person in line was none other than a girl from the neighbourhood who was there most days seeking a job with her. Unfortunately up until now, the baker had to decline her interest but seeing everything that had been happening as of late, maybe it was time to add another pair of hands.
"Good morning Elizabeth!" She greeted her with her brightest morning smile. "You know what.. I might actually be needing another set of hands in here but we can't talk about it right now." She began preparing the girl's order, fortunately an easy one. "Come after lunch if you're free, or tomorrow after I close down. I'd meet you today but-" She cut off, blushing at the thought slightly. "I've got a date." She took the money and handed out the order before moving on to the next customer. "Have a good day Elizabeth!"
The queue was growing shorter at a fast pace, soon reaching another well known face, Grace. The order was quick and served just as quickly, always with the baker's best smile as she watched the woman move away, saying a few words to Supergirl before giving her a kiss on the cheek. It was then that she recalled Lois accusing the officer on having a crush on the heroine, something which perhaps wasn't all that farfetched.
It was then that Jessica realised that Supergirl had blushed slightly at the kiss, something that for some odd reason she wouldn't have expected from her and she couldn't help but chuckle about as she approached the counter. "Oh?" Jessica raised an eyebrow at the peace offering comment. "Your list is right here." She pulled it out from the till where she'd placed it in case she would return. "You should be careful. Those symbols said nothing to me but what if someone dangerous found that?" Hse hadn't realised she was telling supergirl off once again. "I can't- We can't lose you Supergirl" She just about managed to save herself from an embarrassing situation, preparing the cinnamon bun.
"I'm not sure who you angered but if it's who I suspect.. I think you may need a little more than that." She leaned in, whispering. "You may have to give in to that interview." Though the crowd was debating who the bun was for, Jessica knew the order well. "Oh.. And.. Thanks for the message yesterday. I'm really looking forward to seeing her." As she said goodbye to the hero with Kara on her mind, her smile only grew wider.
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Elizabeth promised to return later that day, "Around noon? Sure!" She seemed elated, and even added, "Sixteen and a whole month before school starts, but I could always work the weekends when it does!" She practically skipped out the door saying in a sing-song lilt, "You, too, Miss Jessica!"
Supergirl blinked as Jessica scolded her, slightly wincing at the thought of someone unscrupulous getting her to-do list, and then yet another high school student type response."Yes'm Miss Jessica. I get that. I-I'll try to do better. Promise."She gave a hangdog look, typical of one Jessica might have seen on any scolded teen girl who knew she screwed up."I even told myself not to lose it, and I did anyway. Can't scratch off number seven. Thanks for keeping it safe for me."She bit her lower lip as Jessica whispered to her regarding the fight she had with Lois, although the baker didn't come right out and say it, it was like she knew."Was I that transparent?"She asked surprised, before blushing and lowering her head again."Yeah, I think you may be right."She then whispered back,"Problem is, Miss Jessica, I have a secret identity.... That interview could get me found out... I DO have a civilian life. I can't risk that coming out. Being mobbed during the interview wasn't the only issue. I mean it's Lois Lane. She's like a bulldog. She won't quit til every secret's revealed."She pulled back and as the last of Jessica's words came out, even her bright smile came back."Oh, that was nothing, and don't forget to tell me all about the date, next time I come in!"She was then out the door with a whoosh, so if there was any change due her, it was apparently Jessica's tip.
If Elizabeth would prove anything to Jessica, it was the teen would be punctual, and knew how to look for an interview. She was in the door and at a table waiting for her interview, dressed in a light blue top, dark slacks, and a comfortable pair of white athletic shoes; strawberry blonde hair neatly brushed and pulled back in a high ponytail. Just a slight pink coated her lips, and she even had a notebook and pen, to take notes. Having her own pen also meant Jessica wouldn't have to supply one for an application if one was to be filled out. She'd also have everything Jessica might ask for as far as identification in her purse. Her smile and a hello greeted the last few customers that came in before a short lull.
gpt
It really did feel great to make someone so happy with something so small. All she did was offer the girl a small job and yet she completely seemed to have changed her day, it was for those moments that she'd started baking for everybody, to see the smiles on their faces as they left.
Jessica only realised how she'd scolded Supergirl once she saw her reaction which she couldn't help but feel was a little condescending. She didn't take it in a bad way however, instead blushing slightly as she laughed at herself and her motherly attitude in her mind. "You're welcome, I'm glad it was me who found it." It's a shame she hadn't taken a photo of the list first however as Supergirl, possibly by accident, revealed what the seventh item on it meant.
It was the blonde's following words that really shocked the baker, pretty much rocking her world. She wasn't quite sure what to say. A secret identity? Who? How? Her face was recognised by everyone, she was literally the most famous person in metropolis. How could anyone like her possibly dream of hiding her identity? Jessica wanted to ask questions, so many of them but before she had any time, the blonde left the money and rushed off with the cinnamon bun. Supergirl had quite literally dropped a bomb on her and rushed off. How was she supposed to deal with that? Fortunately her long queue of customers still waiting provided a quick reply to that question as orders kept coming in.
The morning all but flew by and before long, Elizabeth had returned for the interview. Things had fortunately calmed down by then but the Baker hadn't really had time to prepare or even learn how to actually conduct an interview. Between the morning rush and her mind still hung up on Supergirls secret identity and her date with Kara later, it was difficult not to get distracted.
With a deep breath, the baker joined the girl at the table. Fortunately she hadn't had to wait long. "Sorry for the wait Elizabeth, it's been a really crazy day. I guess the last few days have been really." As she spoke, she did notice the effort the student had put in to her outfit and makeup. "You look great. You certainly know how to dress for an interview!" She complimented her. "So, um, this is my first time doing an interview and, to be honest, I really need the help. I know you, you're a good girl, you help your mother out, you're from the area, you even remind me a little of myself." Another breath. "Anyway, yeah, I guess what I really need to know is what days and times you're available and until when, I know you'll start school after the summer but if you want to keep working here, we'll try and work something out, don't worry. Other than that, all I'll really need is a copy of your ID and I can get your papers ready to sign tomorrow. I guess the only question I have is... When would you like to start Elizabeth?" She gave her a wink, congratulating her on the job.
human
Elizabeth smiled, "Beth or Betty, please, Miss Jessica. And I guess whatever days you need me up until I go back to school as a senior. I know August is like tomorrow, so, y'know, August first could be my first day, if that's okay." Somehow the 16 year old senior, kept her eyes on Jessica's, while going in her purse and pulling out both her state ID and student ID to Central Metropolis High, only three blocks away. She handed them over. "I haven't seen my schedule yet, but since the school hours probably didn't change, classes are 7:45 in the morning until 2:15 in the afternoon. Like I said on the way out this morning, I don't mind working Saturdays once school starts, and being 16 means I'm legal consent for working as long as there's no alcohol, and I know this place doesn't serve THAT. Officer Grace told me that when I turned 16 several months back. I don't think I ever saw you open on Sunday. So yeah, no matter what, I can work all day Saturday, especially when school starts, so I make my hours. And that's awesome I remind you of yourself... Oh, and congrats on the date tonight, hope it goes well!"
An explosion shook the place, followed by a low flying red and blue streak and several police cars and a fire engine. The noise seemed to be happening just up the street. Grace could be heard running by next. "Supergirl's on the scene with several Metropolis Police, we don't know the extent yet. Yes, yes, send ambulances. No the huge high rise. The new one Luthor just built for low income families."
gpt
It went without saying that the girl was quite eager to work there. Jessica wasn't quite sure why there specifically but she wouldn't be one to reject the help, certainly not to reject the girl's initiative. It was quite admirable of her to be so eager to work. "It looks like you have your homework done!" She laughed softly. "We'll work it out when the time comes. You're only sixteen, I'm sure you've got better things to do during your weekends than being stuck here." Jessica was just about done taking down Beth's details when what sounded like an explosion shook the entire place.
Immediately, the Baker stood up, looking at the girl and saying just two words. "Stay here." She ran towards the door, standing just outside. The explosion had clearly been nearby. As she looked around, she saw Grace running towards the source, her eyes following the officer and eventually finding the site as she overhead the conversation. Fast as ever, it seemed Supergirl was already there. It seemed like the explosion happened at the high rise for low income families that had only recently been finished.
As she watched the scene from afar, her heart sunk. Jessica knew many people there. She'd taken part at charity events with them, a lot of them were her customers, people she would see around often. They may not have been her biggest customers but every single person who walked through her doors mattered to her.
She looked inside the bakery, asking people to stay there, the dust and fumes starting to travel down the street. "Beth.. Stay here. Keep an eye out together with Laura." He would leave her other helper and her new hire to watch the bakery while she tried to get a better view, tried to help. She was the unknown Supergirl after all... Right? Without thinking twice about it, she ran up the street, following Grace, keeping an eye out for anyone who may have been wounded and asking them to make their way to the bakery, the dust growing thicker as she approached the site.
human
Beth was nodding, grinning, until the explosion; she nodded about staying put, and before Jessica left fully, she'd hear, "Come on, Kara, pick up, pick up!" As she ended the call, "Figures. Every time Supergirl is near or obviously involved, you never pick up, Kara Zorel! I swear, I'm beginning to suspect my best friend IS Supergirl!" She then jumped up and went to Laura to get instructions, which was apparently, seating and passing out water. This was perfectly fine with Beth, she was doing something to help out. "You know, it's funny," she said to Laura, "I've always desired to help Miss Jessica since the bakery started. I've never even been interested in dating or going out, I just wasn't old enough, yet to work here. Getting on here was my dream for almost two years!"
Down at the scene, Supergirl was ironically more in the role of traffic cop and crowd control. Something she desperately needed at the bakery shop the day before."Officer Grace! Over here!"She called to the patrol officer."It's the whole kitchen of the cafeteria! It's just gone! Fire Chief Benson is already suspecting a gas leak, only I can smell burnt wiring..."
Grace nodded. "Electrical? And without flames?" She asked. After a nod, Grace was on the radio, "I think we may need Drug Enforcement." She keyed the mike and told the dispatcher what Supergirl could smell, which was pretty strong.
Supergirl smiled at Jessica."Going to have to ask you to stay behind the line, Miss Jessica. I don't think you're invulnerable, and it's for your own safety. Thanks."She was called by the Police Chief, who noticed Jessica and tipped his hat. "Supergirl, that whole back area is unstable. You're the only first responder we have that's quick enough to rescue all those residents before it collapses, nine floors, darlin', go hero. Grace will take over here."
Supergirl zipped off after a salute and smile, causing the chief to shake his head. "Some teenagers." He chuckled. "Especially the girl scouts. She reminds me so much of my adopted daughter. Come to think of it, where DID Kara disappear to, now? I haven't seen hide nor blonde hair of her since just before Supergirl showed up." The Chief was the dad of the currently missing Kara Zorel.
Grace stood near Jessica. "How big is Hawthorn's Bakery, anyway? I think we're going to need a place to send those not injured, just to get them out from underfoot. Break up this crowd some."
gpt
Jessica picked up on a very familiar name. Kara. It wasn't all that common and she'd only ever met one. Unfortunately, with everything going on, she couldn't quite hear the rest. Before long she had arrived at the police barrier behind Grace, noticing Supergirl standing there rather than assisting inside the building. Of course she wouldn't question the heroines choice, certain that she had her reasons and probably didn't want to interfere and risk causing any more damage.
The baker overheard the conversation the two women had, listening as Grace informed about the situation. She looked around, seeing the damage already caused and several injured people being assisted already. It really didn't seem like there was much she could do to help, something which became increasingly clear when Supergirl told her to stay behind the line. It was only then that she stopped to really ask herself what she was doing there, what she'd hoped to achieve. She looked down at her hands, her legs. She had gotten dirty. She was covered in dust on the day of her first date with Kara.. How could she be so careless!?
Jessica was about to make her way back when she overheard the police chief mentioning the name Kara. "Kara?" She suddenly asked, a sense of alert in her voice, before realising it couldn't be the same person, recalling the chief's surname and that of the Kara she knew. "I'll let you know if I see a girl by that name." She finished her sentence, hiding her initial reaction.
"Oh well.." Jessica looked over at Grace. "I've already asked some people to take shelter there if necessary until you guys have things under control but truth be told.. I don't think there's enough space. I'll get back and try to make some extra space. It's all I can do.." Her last words trailed off slightly, feeling powerless to help as she made her way back to the bakery where the girls awaited her.
By the time she arrived at the bakery, it seemed like word had spread and it had begun to fill up with those moving away from the explosion. Jessica entered, going towards the counter and standing on a chair behind it, first stopping to thank the girls for their help, asking them to take a small rest too. "Please calm down everyone. The police and Supergirl have it all under control. Please help me stack the tables and chairs and we will give out some more water to those who don't have any yet. Unfortunately there's not enough pastries for everyone but I'll break them up and pass some around too. I'm sure we'll be out of here soon enough." She really hoped they would be. She didn't want to miss her date.
human
The explosion had been around 1:30. It was now going on five, and Supergirl was beyond filthy. She sighed. The one day she didn't need a crisis like this. Her first date ever. Sure, it was Jessica Hawthorn, and sure those premium tickets that were now with Jessica had cost her about a fourth of her weekly pay... But how could she show up, or rather Kara Kent show up, looking a fright. She'd had gotten everyone out of the back area, and five minutes after removing a mother and daughter and making one final sweep, the section was coming down, with her still in it!
The radio was on at the moment of the collapse, and the media in all it's "wisdom" said Supergirl had been killed in the collapse, until heavy concrete slabs moved away and off each other and a blue sleeved fist punched an opening for the rest of the bedraggled, fussing Supergirl to climb out, covered in concrete dust. A cameraman got a closeup of the heroine dusting herself off, and looking every bit like a grumpy cat. The camera quickly panned away.
Now, as it approached five, and the area was cordoned off, while the investigation began on what caused the explosion, Supergirl was ready to just be done, and go home. Elizabeth looked at the TV pictures of the dirty, dusty, dispirited Supergirl, and then her picture of her friend. She held it to Supergirl and shook her head. "Ugh! It IS her... Kara! Why didn't you tell me?! I'm your best friend! I wonder if Chief Zorel even knows! He does, she's probably soooo grounded!"
Unfortunately, despite all the overwhelming circumstantial evidence screaming Kara Zorel was Supergirl, it would take about a week, but it would soon be proven to be a misidentification.
Beth's picture of her best friend
gpt
Things were far from over soon. Although the dust outside did begin so settle a short while after the explosion, ambulances were still heard in the distance, fire trucks along with them. Media coverage was on almost every channel, some even being as crazy as to suggest Supergirl had died after part of the structure collapsed on her, burying her under it. It was hardly the worst situation they had seen her in and, just as expected, after a few moments she came right out of the concrete, fist punching through it before the cameras caught her climbing out, looking anything but happy.
The bakery had been crazy the entire time. Soon enough Jessica had run out of pastries to offer as well as bottles of water, having to opt for refilling jugs of tap water instead to pass around. Some people had gone after the dust settled and some emergency services had stopped by to pick up any wounded and ensure them that it was safe to go home, so long as that wasn't in the direction of the explosion. It was nearing fine by the time that Jessica finally managed to take a seat, next to Elizabeth who she overheard saying something in excitement. Once more, the only word she caught on was Kara. That was the second time she heard the name today from someone. "Ughh.. I'm exhausted. I'm sure you are too. You should probably head home, your mother could be worried." She paused, wondering whether or not to ask. "Say... I think I overheard you say the name Kara? That's actually the name my date tonight. Well, if I make it that is. Given my current state, I'm not sure. I look a mess!" She sighed. "So how do you know Kara Kent?"
human
Beth shook her head. Laura was back in the back, helping clean up. "I texted mom. I'm gonna help you sweep up first." Her eyes looked puzzled and then she handed Jessica the picture. "The new Daily Planet reporter? I only know her by her byline and the article on you. This is my bestie. The daughter of the police chief. Her name is Kara Zorel. Now look at the TV with Supergirl being interviewed. Imagine all that dirt and stuff all over the face of the girl in the picture." She shook her head. "The resemblance is way too canny!"
Speaking of, Kara's dad walked in. The police chief looked worried. He looked around at the remaining faces and shook his head. Removing his cap, he said, "This is the longest I can recall in a while, that my daughter has pulled this disappearing act. I was hoping she found her way here. What has possessed her to start doing this? It's only been in the last month, probably." He sunk into a chair after pulling it off the table, and sat down. He looked up, seeing the interviewer still talking to Supergirl, who looked like she really wanted to leave, but wasn't going to be rude to the reporter, especially on live TV.
Just before all the interviews started, Jessica had gotten a text."Hectic day. Lois and I on scene at Luthor Arms near you guys. You probably heard the explosion. I think everyone in Metropolis did. We'll both see you after we wrap up. Looks like I might not make our date and was looking so forward to it. If you can, just give the tickets to someone. Maybe Laura. I'll make this up to you. Promise."Of course, neither Kara Kent or Supergirl, her other identity, could have known that Beth Firestone was now also working for Jessica.
gpt
If it wasn't already clear, Jessica realised she really had done well hiring the girl and just how good and dedicated she was. There weren't many teenagers with a heart as good as Elizabeth's. It quickly became clear also that they weren't talking about the same Kara, as Beth proceeded to clarify the issue and show the baker the photo. Though there weresomesimilarities, one could hardly say they were the same person. Sure, they were both blonde and had blue eyes but Supergirl seemed older than Beth's friend. If anything she would have guessed her to be close to the Kara she knew and they clearly weren't the same person.
"Hmm I don't quite think I see it though, sorry." She replied to the girl as the police chief walked in, clearly worried about his daughter. "I'm really sorry to hear sir. She hasn't come around here but I'm sure she's alright. Maybe she just heard the explosion and stayed with a friend or something." She attempted to comfort him though she wasn't sure her reasoning would convince him.
Seeing the time and beginning to wonder if Kara was alright too, Jessica looked at her phone, finding a message from the reporter. As she read it however, her heart sunk a little. Of course she fully understood and didn't blame Kara at all but.. She had looked forward to it so much. It was all she'd been thinking about, looking forward to it. She took a few moments, wondering what she could possibly reply, the words struggling to come to her.
"It's probably for the best, the bakery is crazy too, it's clearing up but still have some people here. Be careful over there.. It looked really bad. I'll be looking forward to seeing you!" She hit send and sighed, taking the tickets out of her bag and walking back over to Beth. "It seems like my date for tonight's been cancelled so here, take these, as a thank you for your help today. You're true great Beth." She gave her a smile, the best she could at least after the date had gotten cancelled. "And before you ask, yes, I'm sure, take them and have fun!"
human
Beth looked at the tickets in unbelief. "Oh wow, Candy Pop. These..." She looked around at the front of the bakery and checked the time. "Row C is like almost on top of the stage, Miss Jessica, Miss Kent had to have spent a fortune. It's 5:15. Let me sweep here, just in the eating area. I can have it done in ten minutes. I'll fetch the broom." She left her small purse, straps draped over the chair in such a way, someone would almost have to take chair too, to swipe it. It would be unlatched, the flap slightly open for when she had stuck her IDs back in it. A perfect way to sneak the tickets in.
"Jess, that's very selfless of you." Chief Zorel smiled. "I don't know who she could take, beside her mom. Kara wouldn't be able to handle the loud music of a concert. It hurts her ears. Actually, she's that way with any loud noises. I told her to come here, since I usually get my donuts for the precinct here. Crap. Tomorrow's Friday. Will you even have five dozen mixed for me tomorrow with everything that happened today?" He noticed the empty displays. "I mean, you usually have at least a dozen day olds, which most the guys didn't mind. Sixty's a tall order, and with you sending your help to the concert? Could you really get that done in the morning?" Zorel was sounding like a worried father towards Jessica, now.
Supergirl had finally gotten a chance to get away, and if Jessica was quick enough, she would see, Lois frantically waving for a rushing Kara towards Lois's car and almost hear her saying,"Move it, Smallville!"Kara was waving something frantically towards Lois who would walk over to take it, before pointing to the driver's side of the car, and sort of push Kara towards it, before walking around to the passengers side, looking at the paper, Kara handed her, and getting in. All on live TV, just behind the television reporter looking into the camera.
Again, true to her promise, Beth would have the public area swept in about ten minutes, excusing herself around the few still there, including the police chief, getting everything in the long handled dustpan, and dumping it, putting both back in the kitchen, and coming to retrieve both purse and tickets. "What time would you like me to be in tomorrow?" She asked.
Unsurprisingly, now that the excitement and noise was over, Kara Zorel came in. She'd been close enough to get some of the dirt and dust on her, but nothing like most the others already there, including her dad.
The familiar car of Lois's stopped in front of the bakery without a familiar screech. Lois popped out of the passenger's seat."Show off!"She snarked since Kara had been so much easier on the brakes and tires than she ever had been."Let's see if we can help Jess, now, get all three of us something to eat, and get this story to bed, all before nine. Perry said he'd only hold the printers for us until then."
"Miss Lane... I said, and this makes the third time..."Kara groaned, slowly getting out.
"I heard you about the concert! I'm sorry, shit like this happens all the time in Metropolis. Get used to it. You're hungry. I'm hungry. Rest assured SHE'S hungry. I also told you, and this is MY third time, we're having a sit down dinner on me. Now, let's try to salvage the date, yes?!"Lois tutted as she looked at Kara as she fully got out of the driver's side."Cry-manatly, Smallville. You look a fright."
Both were obviously down in the midst of the mess as both were covered with the concrete dust, among other things. The grey of the dust peppering Lois's raven locks and looking like dandruff on the shoulders of her suit. Kara looked just a little bit cleaner... Clothes wise. Her hair seemed straggly and unkempt. Her face was dirty, almost as dirty as Supergirl's had been. There was a telltale smudge of grease or something dark, on the end of her nose."I hope the dinner place will take us..."
"Don't worry about it, Smallville! They want respectable, not perfect and spotless. Gods, it's Bob Evans! I would think you'd feel right at home there! Y'know? Their catchphrase in those ads IS 'Down on the Farm'. I worry about you. If I hadn't see Supergirl get buried under that hundred tons of concrete, I'd think YOU were the one that got hit on the head by it. Nice shot of the collapse, by the way. Still say you were too dangerously close."
They both came in, looking at Jessica."Sheesh,Jess!"They both chimed, seeing her not quite as dirty as them, but then, they were at the site longer and were closer than she had been allowed to get.
gpt
The baker shook her head slightly with a soft laugh. "Alright, fine, but after that, you head home. You've done more than enough today Beth." Jessica noticed the bag on the chair and moved the chair closer to the counter to keep an eye on it as the police chief began speaking to her. Her smile grew a little warmer as he called her selfless. "She deserves them. She's been an enormous help today and she wasn't even hired yet. She's a real hard worker." She listened on as he mentioned his daughter, Beth's friend. "I'm sure she'll find someone. Everyone wants a ticket to it."
"Five dozen.." She tapped her index finger on her chin, trying to work out how to get it done. "I'll find a way to have it done, don't you worry. You've been helping everyone out after the explosion, I'll put in a little extra effort and have it ready. You don't have to worry about me, you already have the whole city and your daughter to worry about." Jessica gave him a reassuring smile, just as Lois and Kara appeared on the TV, getting into a car.
"Well, after a day like today and since you have the concert tonight, how about you come in just before lunch, that way you can sleep in a little. Laura and I will handle the morning rush, you can step in for her for the afternoon, she's been working really hard too." They'd both been a great help and Jess would have to find a way to make it up to Laura, who she also began telling she should go home. Most people were gone and she'd be able to close up soon and hopefully get cleaned.
Just as both girls left, a car stopped. It was the same car that had been on the TV a few minutes earlier, the same car that usually really put its brakes to the test. This time however it stopped much less abruptly and Lois and Kara soon came out of it, looking quite a mess, much as herself. In fact, they both looked far more dusty than she did, not quite a surprise seeing as they'd been covering the entire thing. What the baker hadn't noticed until then was that the Kara Zorel she'd been hearing so much about had also come in, now reunited with her father. It brought a smile to her face.
For a moment Jessica had forgotten the state she was in. She hadn't even had time to try and clean herself up a little, her hair a complete mess, covered in dust from earlier. A hint of anxiety hit her, not wanting Kara to see her in such a messy state. It was too late however as the pair of reporters walked through the doors, both simultaneously calling her name out, surprised at her state. "Oh.. H-hey. Glad to see you're both safe. Do you want some water? I'd offer something else but.. Tap water is all I have left." She spoke quickly, a little nervous about her appearance.
human
Lois shook her head."I guess I shoulda expected this with the commotion, today. You and Kara are still having your date. At Bob Evans. On me. No argument, Jess. Smallville, here, argued enough for both of you. We're going to help you get the place closed up. No one really has time to clean up, we have a nine PM deadline, but I'm still going to try to help you salvage something from your date. She's still driving."Lois said blunt and to the point, which would have been expected from her, with anyone who even remotely familiar with her.
Kara shrugged as the police chief, giving his own daughter a side hug, laughed. "I'm on my way out, then. And Kara may be coming to pick up my order in the morning. I have to go in early tomorrow, at five-thirty, before you even open. Paperwork. You still open an hour later, at 6:30, correct?" He wanted it verified, and pointed to his daughter, for Jessica to tell her the time she opened. They would head out as soon as Jessica verified when she opened to the blonde Kara.
Kara Kent, meanwhile, was showing off her "natural" speed (which was a lot slower than her true speed as Supergirl) proving in a sense, she wasn't fudging about setting a record at Smallville High School regarding the 1000 meter dash, as she put the chairs upside down on their corresponding tables.
Lois shook her head muttering"Show off!"for the second time in five minutes."What do you need me to do, Jess, to help close you up for the day?"
gpt
Although the baker herself had been calling it a date, hearing Lois say it out loud, while Kara was present made it feel much more real and embarrassing, bringing the all-too-common blush to her face. It seemed like the reporter had it all planned out and was even willing to pay for it herself, an unexpected gesture. "You really don't have to Lois-" She started but was quickly cut off as the woman went on to say that Kara had already tried to convince her otherwise. If there's one thing everyone knew about Lois it was that once her mind was made up, there was little to no chance of changing it, leaving the baker to sigh in acceptance.
"Right. Yes. 6:30 on the dot." She quickly replied to the police chief, looking at his daughter and give her a reaffirming nod. By the time the two had left, Kara had seemingly already gotten to work on tidying the place up for closing, most of the chairs already placed on the tables. "Wow, that was fast. You really didn't waste any time." Jess' smile had returned as she spoke to her date.
"Hmm.. Well the truth is, Laura and Beth.. Oh, Beth is my new hire, they were a really big help. The back is all cleaned up and ready for tomorrow. The chairs and tables are back in place, they even broomed. I guess the windows could use a clean but that will have to wait until I can have someone come and do it tomorrow. I would just need to mop before we leave. Hopefully there's not much dust in the air and the floor will stay clean. I managed to clean the displays up when they emptied and cover them up to avoid any dust inside." She thought about it for a moment, her lips pursed together and to the side." Yup, that's all really." She moved to lock the front door as the last couple of people left and grabbed the mop, starting off right away. "We can leave out the back, won't have to wait for it to dry that way." She finished mopping, gathering her things and opening the back door. "After you ladies."
human
With everything else that had happened, and thanks to Beth, Jessica would have a rough idea on the cost of the concert tickets ($100 each, which to a starting reporter getting $800 a week? Yes, Kara spent a fortune), so why would she and Kara be surprised at Lois's gesture to buy them dinner? She could be cold, but she wasn't heartless, especially to their situation.
Be that as it may, Lois smacked Kara in the back of the head, sending concrete dust flying, and again shaking her stinging hand, making her open the back passenger door for Jessica to get in. Lois tutted while getting in the front passenger door, getting seated and buckling up.
Once Kara was in and buckled up in the driver's seat, Lois gave precise directions to the Bob Evans that was just off the interstate. Although it looked just like any other of their franchises, Kara was actually impressed.
For it being the dinner rush, the restaurant was almost empty. The trio was seated right away, and after getting herself a coffee and pulling out her laptop, and both hers and Kara's notes, Lois commented,"You ladies order whatever you want. Don't worry about it. Smallville, not a word unless it's to Jessica about her. I'll get the story written."She stuck a pencil in her mouth and started typing. Soon, it seemed Lois was in her own little world, typing the days events at at least a word a second.
Kara smiled at Jessica."We both look a mess."Looking in her blue-green eyes, she said,"Wish I knew Candy Pop personally, I'd plead with her to get a danish from you before she left Metropolis... I'm kinda interested in who your new hire is, this Beth. You got a little something right..."She looked down slightly, wetting her napkin and caressed a cheek, actually smearing some of the dust. Of course she had the tell tale inky Supergirl smear on the tip of her nose, that somehow on Kara, looked bigger than Supergirl's was during the interview. Lois smirked, hoping Jessica pointed out Kara's face was a hellova lot worse off than the baker's.
Kara would probably be sorry later for ordering a soda to drink with dinner... Especially a root beer, but she was going to be the one that would have to live with her steel stomach and any indigestion later. She wasn't THAT invulnerable.
The waitress had given them plenty of time, a good ten minutes, and was back for their orders.
"Pork chops, mashed potatoes and corn. Gravy on the pork chops and potatoes."Lois said, handing the menu back.
After a few more seconds, Kara handed the menu over and said,"Chicken, leg and thigh, fries... Slaw, I guess?"
"Drinking root beer and all that grease. Don't cry later about your stomach."Lois huffed, unable to ignore THAT order. Pencil was soon back in mouth and the clacking of the keyboard heard, and once again, Kara and her date were being ignored.
gpt
As they circled around, back to the front of the store, Jessica was still finding it hard to believe everything that had happened. She certainly hadn't expected the day to be so crazy when she'd woken up, all she wanted was to get right through it, onto her date. Of course, there she was, on her way to a date with Kara... And their chapharone it seemed. It was just as said chapharone seemed to slap Kara on the back of the head that the baker chuckled a little, a small "thank you" directed at the two as she entered the car.
The drive felt fairly short and quite safe with Kara at the wheel. Jessica had seen Lois driving and it was certainly not gentle to say the least. The restaurant looked fairly empty as they approached, soon confirming it as they entered. Within moments of arrival, the three were seated. What did come as a real surprise however was the fact that Lois sat with the pair, immediately getting to work on her article. Even though she was paying and they used her car, Jessica had thought she would be sitting at a different table, instead, she had joined the two for dinner, asking them to pretend she wasn't there.
It certainly wasn't an ordinary date but she wasn't going to complain, she was just happy to see Kara again. The cute baker returned a somewhat shy smile, chuckling. "We do." She couldn't help but stare, maybe a little too much, at the woman opposite her. Jessica could hardly believe it was happening. She was absout to start telling Kara about Beth when her date leaned over with a wettened napkin, caressing her cheek with it. The baker blushed shyly, almost so shyly in fact that she could have missed out on the opportunity to tease her right back. Fortunately she didn't, taking her own and doing the same to Kara's, not before making a little comment. "I think you're worse off than I am though. You've got a little something here... And just about everywhere else." She chuckled, biting her lower lip lightly.
As Lois made her order, the baker was almost convinced to go with it, not quite sure herself in what to get. It wasn't until Kara's order that she made her mind up." Oh, I'll have the chicken too. That sounds nice. No slaw for me though, I'm not a big fan."
"So, about Beth, yeah, she's a good kid. She's been wanting to help me out for quite a while now and, since a certain article was published, I could really use the help. It's been so crazy the last few days. You should Umm.. Pop in more often." She did try to be subtle but it was clearly not her strongest quality.
"Also.. How do you know Supergirl? How did you get her to come and deliver me her message from you? It's incredible!"
human
Lois had overheard Jessica ordering the chicken and fries as well, and wasn't going to say anything. Water or coffee, even milk or juice wouldn't interact with the grease like carbonation would. That was just asking for it, which Kara was. Supergirl or not (which at this stage since the interview hadn't happened yet, Lois didn't know), Kara was going to pay later.
The waitress explained it came with two sides and named some of the others. Corn, baked beans, green beans, peas, small garden salad were all choices that poured from her mouth.
Even Lois had to think for a minute. The slaw was probably the only smart choice Kara had made with her order. Peas. Corn. Baked beans. Salad. One of those would help Jessica. She was tapping her pencil against her cheek, trying to help Jessica's order, but that thinking pose looked right at home on Lois Lane anyway when she was in the middle of writing an article.
Kara shrugged and looked at Jessica with a smile."I think the salad or the peas would work if not the slaw. You could always ask for the salad dry (no dressing)."She suggested.
Lois, pencil back in mouth, was typing away again with a broad smile."Good girl, Smallville, you're the one on the date, not I."she thought.
gpt
Jessica took a moment to think about it. In truth, she was quite used to eating salads and other greens while at home so she was just happy to indulge on something more unhealthy for once since she was out to dinner. However, since the meal did come with two sides, it would be a waste to get just one. Not only that but she now also had Kara's suggestion to go on. She could have also sworn Lois had been about to say something but that was hard to tell as she simply seemed lost in thought.
"Hmmm." She pondered on it for a moment longer before finally making her choice. "I guess I'll go with the salad then." She smiled at the waitress upon completing her order before turning back to Kara. It felt rude not to talk to Lois also since she was sitting right by the pair but she didn't quite want to risk bothering her while she thought about the article either.
"It's my first time out to dinner in a really long time actually. Mum and I usually make dinner most of the time or very occasionally order out. Thanks for bringing me out." She gave the cub reporter a warm smile, even though it was technically Lois who had brought them both out. "I'm glad I got to see you today."
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Kara smiled with a blush."Welcome. We almost didn't get even this chance since there was no way to make the concert by seven. I mean look at us. Well, especially me."She giggled. As she listened about Beth, and how much the girl wanted to be there. She had to raise an eyebrow at the attempt to incorporate the pop singer's last name into the equation. It still brought a smile although it seemed forced and she wasn't going to risk both Jessica and Lois throwing water in her face for pointing that out, since that's what stereotypically always happens to the idiot guy who would. She was already proving herself to be the stereotypical dumb brunette."I don't know if it's truly funny or not about how... But a few days after she came into town...."She shook her head, and leaned in."I'd tell it without whispering if Lois wasn't here. See, the day she fell out the open window? I was one of the dummies that came and gawped when she was caught. Right out of a movie. I don't know what Supergirl said, probably something about getting Lois, cause as she came back up to the window, Lois snarked, 'You got me?! Who's got you?!' I said hi, Supergirl said hi. Well, she said hi to all of us. Lois writes the article, and suddenly we're all calling her Supergirl."She drank some of her root beer and without realizing it, clasped her hands over Jessica's. Back to normal inside voice, Kara continued,"Anyway, I guess it was a week later and I run into her and she and I started talking about Lois's articles about her. I told her I'd try to convince Lois to keep it low key, and she said if I managed that she'd owe me."She shrugged,"If you were following her exploits in the paper, you noticed it did kinda slack off a little, so I kept my end. I decided to cash in on the favor with getting you the tickets via Supergirl, because I figured you'd like to meet her."She drank some more root beer, and excused herself after a very farm like, yet feminine burp that even caused Lois to look over.
"As Perry would say.... Great Caesar's Ghost, Kent! Well, at least you said pardon me, but really."Lois said shaking her head. She soon returned to typing.
Kara smiled,"Believe me after what happened at Luthor Arms.... I'm glad to be seen today. Even I know what fried electrical smell without flames means.... Ouch!"
Lois looked over."I'll step on your other foot you say one more thing about it. That's not proven yet. Contrary to a lot of other papers and media sources, the Daily Planet reports facts only. Not opinions. As much as I'd like to mention it myself, I won't. It's. Not. Proven. Is that understood, Smallville?"
With a sigh, Kara nodded."Yes, Miss Lane."
"Good."Back to typing and ignoring.
Kara looked blushing at her date, biting her lower lip."She used her heel."Of course she was not really hurt, but put on such a good show, Jessica would believe that it definitely smarted. Of course if she ever had gotten that righteous punishment herself... She'd know it definitely smarted.
Shortly, the dinners came, and a coffee and root beer refill, as well as whatever Jessica had gotten to drink, and their server left them in peace to enjoy their meals.
Kara had to finally ask."So, were you able to give the tickets to someone deserving?"She had only let go of Jessica's hands when the dinners came.
Lois appeared to be on ignore mode, as they ate, so Kara and Jessica could get better acquainted.
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Jessica couldn't help but match her as she leaned in, the conversation turning into a whisper as she began to explain exactly how she'd met Supergirl. The baker couldn't help but notice that Kara looked even prettier up close, even with her dust covered face, her eyes were enough to make Jess' heat skip a beat. As she listened, her eyes moved from Kara's eyes to her lips, watching as they moved, blushing slightly as she wondered what it would be like to kiss her.
The baker was almost getting lost in her own thoughts when her date brought her back down from the clouds, Jess feeling her hands being covered by the reporter's. As it happened, her tone also returned to normal as she described the rest of the story and how it was thanks to Kara herself that the stories about Supergirl had slacked off a little as of late. What followed the story was a far less elegant sound that caught the baker by surprise, not expecting it from Kara, but instead chuckling a little as Lois quickly stepped in to tell the girl off.
"Wow. So.. You met her, you actually helped her and managed to get her to come to my bakery and for me to meet her? I swear Kara Kent you're almost like a walking miracle worker." She smiled, complimenting her date before she and Lois had a brief exchange about the importance of contrasting information and not basing things on heresay.. Though not before Lois had seemingly stepped on the cub reporter. Jessica had to admit, it was always entertaining to see the exchanges between the two women, there never seemed to be a dull moment.
Soon enough dinner had arrived along with their drinks including some water for Jessica. It was only then that Kara had released her hands and Jess very slowly retracted hers, a very faint shade of pink colouring her dusty cheeks. "Well, I gave them to Beth actually. She was such a big help today, before she even officially started working for me.. She deserves them. I would have liked to go with you though, I've never actually been to a concert. We'll have to try a different sometime... If you'd like?" Her eyes looked towards Kara expectantly, hoping for a positive answer.
While speaking, Jess had also taken a look at the food. It looked as delicious as it sounded when they'd ordered it and it smelt wonderful. "Mmm... Enjoy. It smells really nice. Oh, and I never actually thanked you properly. Thank you Kara. Thank you for the article.. You really.. Well, it's amazing how many people came in after publishing it.
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Kara blushed as she was thanked for the article. A quick glance at the time caused her to sigh longingly. Right at seven o'clock. She hoped this Beth had someone to take, and they were enjoying the concert which was just starting. After her wistful glance to the clock, her eyes returned to Jessica and what she had said. Her response,"I can only try. I mean, I have to think of rent, utes, insurance and phone bill and all. I couldn't believe I couldn't even rent anything in Metropolis without getting renter's insurance, and Ma Kent signed over my life insurance she got for me when I was adopted, 'because I have a job, and an adult, and I need to learn responsibility."She sighed."I splurged this time."She looked across to Jessica."Okay, besides modern dance light rock, what do you like? I mean, I was just guessing you might want to go with me. I can watch for what comes."
"Bunch of old timers are coming in next week. Your parents, Martha and Jonathan would probably be interested. Remembering the 70s, it's called. ABBA is headlining that. A whole weekend and not one night only like Candy Pop's is."Lois offered."Something to think about."
Kara looked at Jessica and shrugged, she couldn't speak for her, but Kara DID grow up on her parents' music with a bit of more recent thrown in, to keep the girl up to date on the latest music trends in popular light rock.
Kara did mention that as she was listening to Jessica talk about her humble beginnings, she couldn't help but compare her to the women in her life around her age. Since that was Lois, Cat Grant and Supergirl, and Jessica's demeanor and kindness were on par with the selfless heroine... She trailed off and shrugged her shoulders.
Lois nodded,"That's why I said what I did, Jess. I'm still P.Oed at you, Smallville; you went over my head, but even I had to agree changing it really wouldn't have done Jessica justice."As the waitress came over to check on them, Lois said,"Who wants dessert... Besides, Smallville."
Kara blushed and put her hand down as Lois asked for a third cup of coffee and a slice of key lime pie.
Kara thought about it and said finally,"Have you got an orange cream? You mentioned chocolate, banana, lemon and coconut..."She glanced at Jessica as Kara's first danish had been the orange cream cheese one.
"I think we have one slice left, yes. That's not exactly a big seller, but we do manage to sell all eight pieces of it a day." The waitress said. All three ladies turned their attention to Jessica to see if she wanted dessert. If she asked Lois if she could get something for her mom, she'd get,"If you also get a dessert for yourself, Jess, even if it's to go. I know from the article what your mom means to you."She'd state.
gpt
The sigh didn't go unnoticed as Jessica noticed the time too. They should have been at the concert together right about then, about to enjoy an evening of music and fun, instead they were there, in the restaurant. Of course it was by no means anything bad, just not what the two had planned, they certainly hadn't planned being chapharoned by Lois. Jessica couldn't help but get a little embarrassed as Kara seemed to believe she'd wanted her to get the tickets again. The baker shook her head. "Oh.. No, no. Next time it's my turn to get the tickets. You've already made two girls very happy with these!" She quickly interjected, clarifying the matter.
"Hmm, I'll be honest, though I do like a bit of everything out there, 90's rock is usually my go-to music. Not sure if that would be something you like?" Sbe asked curiously. I wouldn't necessarily be opposed to going to that Old Timers concert either. I may not be a die-hard ABBA fan but who doesn't enjoy their music, right?" Her eyes looked towards Kara after nodding towards Lois, thanking her for the suggestion, a wide smile on her face.
"You two are too kind." The baker finally said. "I'm just a baker, just one of many. I'm sure there are many better than me.. You helped me with the article, Supergirl even came in! Now I'm getting treated to dinner after the unfortunate event of the explosion.. Truly, you girls are too kind." She finally let it out along with a shy look as she did.
As the question of dessert came, Jessica wondered. Lost in thought, she almost missed Kara's glance. The baker truly wished she could have surprised her with one of her own danishes but there were none left to sneak out before they'd left the bakery. "Hmm.. I can't say I want any cakes or pastries, not after a day at the bakery like today." She giggled softly. "If you have any, I'll take two scoops of chocolate ice cream and some water please. If not, just the water will do, thank you!"
Once the waitress left, Jessica looked over towards Kara. "I haven't forgotten your special order either. It's almost ready for you. I just need to make some adjustments..."
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Kara nodded."Ma and Pa probably should have been grandparents by now, but they didn't have kids til they adopted me. I grew up on stuff that's now fifty to sixty years old. What they listened to when they were kids. They introduced me to the other decades, but I don't think I heard anything younger than 2005 until I got out here. Then I was introduced to Selena, JLo, Pink, Demi Lovato and all. I actually am with you, mainly because of how I was brought up... 80s and 90s, some of the newer stuff if I can understand what they're saying... Or rather singing."She began shaking her head."Anything but rap... Ugh, the hate. The disrespect towards women. The language."She shivered."Two months is two months too long."
"Me too, Smallville. If you can't say something without spewing 50 foul words, I don't want to listen to you. I probably don't even get to the hate if there's any in it, because I can't get past foul this and screw that."Lois chimed in.
The waitress brought the desserts and check, and Lois said something quietly to her and her head momentarily moved Jessica's direction. After the waitress nodded and left, Lois began eating her slice of pie. Jessica would have two pretty large scoops of chocolate ice cream, and Kara a slice of orange cream pie with a little candy orange slice on top of the whipped cream topping. Lois looked at Kara."Go ahead and say it, Smallville, before I do. You look like you want to."
Kara nodded before taking the candy slice off her pie and setting it on Jessica's bowl of ice cream."You're special to me, and Lois loves your cinnamon rolls."
"Mostly for them being the 'size of Texas'. The mayor wasn't kidding, and neither was the word of mouth saying yours are the best pastries in town."Lois added."It was the least I could do, although it was the circumstances that ruined your first concert together. I didn't get a good look at them, but the cheapest was $40. Kara doesn't strike me as the cheapskate type."
Kara blushed and shook her head."The thing is, I thought you deserved it, especially as you recited how the bakery started and all. Of course, that was going in, no matter what. Maybe, leaving the story as is was good, but maybe I should have done my attention grabbing headline regarding the humble beginnings."
Once again, it seemed, it was time to go. Sure, they still had the car ride to drop Jessica off at her place, but somehow Kara had to be melodramatic. Clasping Jessica's hands, she said,"Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it be morrow. My necessaries are embark'd: farewell. Adieu! I have too grieved a heart to take a tedious leave."
"Oh brother..."Lois groaned with a smirk."I'll meet you two at the car, Juliet, try not to swoon, okay?"She arose to pay the bill.
gpt
Kara's taste in music made a lot of sense. The younger music as she called it wasn't Jessica's favourite necessarily either, though she did enjoy most music, irrelevant to its era. Both Lois and Kara seemed to have a strong dislike towards rap music. She wasn't a big fan herself, it didn't quite speak to her and, she had to agree the disrespect was quite off-putting, but she didn't necessarily share a dislike for it as much as the pair did. She nodded, "It seems like we do sort of like the same music then." She wore a bright smile, clearly happy to learn something about Kara and share something in common with her.
The desserts soon arrived, all three very generous servings, including her two large scoops of chocolate ice-cream. Of course the two sitting with her didn't know it but chocolate ice-cream was her guilty pleasure. It was the perfect remedy for a rainy day, for a bad day, it was great to accompany a good day, to enhance a wonderful meal like they'd just had.. But perhaps she was a little biased. A deep red blush quickly coloured Jessica's face as Kara said she was special to her, topping her ice-cream with part of her own dessert.
Eyes shyly looking up at Kara's own, Jessica replied softly. "You're... Special to me too." She paused, feeling her heart speeding up, breathing to calm down and then looking at Lois. "You'll have one on the house if you come back tomorrow!" Jessica was truly thankful that they both seemed to appreciate her as they did. She didn't quite see herself as they seemed to, in fact, to her, it was both of them who deserved her thanks and admiration. It felt nice however to be valued. "The article was perfect as it was. More than I could have asked or even dreamed of. I intend to frame it actually, I never want to forget it, especially not since it's the first time we really met." She looked at Kara as she said the last words.
Jessica couldn't help but giggle as Kara said her melodramatic goodbye, their hands clasped together as the baker listened. Lois left them alone for a moment, their first moment truly alone. Jessica couldn't help herself, leaning in to kiss her date on the cheek. "I do hope I'll get to see you soon though? Maybe you can come over to the bakery for lunch tomorrow? If you're not too busy?" It wouldn't be the nicest date perhaps but it would mean seeing her again.
As they were about to leave, Jessica turned as she heard the waitress behind her. It seemed like the surprises weren't quite over yet as she received an entire chocolate cream pie readied in a takeaway bag for her to take home. She did try to tell Lois she couldn't possibly accept it but the reporter was not taking no for an answer. After a thousand thank you and a short drive, they soon dropped her off. "I really did have a nice time tonight. Thank you both so much. I truly feel lucky to have met you."
Once home the baker surprised her mother with Lois' gift to them though she only tasted a small piece herself, already stuffed from dinner. Jessica went to bed earlier than usual, aware she would have to wake up early in order to fulfill the chief of police's order. She also wanted to have the danish ready before lunch, in case Kara came in. All in all, she only slept between 3-4 hours, getting up at 2am and making her way to the bakery after a shower.
Seeing as her stocks were fully depleted the previous day, Jessica would have to start from scratch. Fortunately she had a drinks order arriving before opening so she would be able to offer drinks other than water. The baking however was all up to her. She got to work and prepared the order for the chief of police before anything else, ensuring that was ready for the other Kara to collect. It took hours of work and a mental toll on her but fortunately, as opening hour came, she was done, a tired look on her face but her smile bright as ever.
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Laura had arrived around four, two hours into the massive restocking project, and an hour before she was supposed to, and as per usual, did her best, silently working with her employer to not only fill the Chief's normal, yet massive weekly order, but replenish the depleted shelves. It was probably the hardest the college coed ever had to work first thing in the morning, but was less exhausted than Jessica, allowing her employer to unlock and open the front door while she handled the first rush. The other woman even offered a fist bump and a jovial, "I'd never leave a friend hanging." At the time of her arrival.
Kara Zorel came in, and it would be the first time Jessica would hear her speak. Her voice would remind her of Supergirl's, but it seemed somewhat lighter and airier. Like she had a mental handicap that she never really let bother her. Even if she did what most polite high schoolers did when greeting the baker."Hello, Miss Jessica. See? I remember. Six-thirty, you said. Sorry, I wasn't first. I was fifth. The line was already starting when I got here at six-fifteen. I'm here for dad's order. Sixty donuts, forty-five dollars. He said the five dollar tip is yours since you had so much work to do this morning."Laura would take the fifty dollar bill, passing the change to Jessica, and handing Kara the package."I got it. I'm stronger than I look."She assured both ladies and beamed ala Supergirl. The day was just getting started.
Lois did stroll in and, although she usually DID come in on Friday she would surprise Jessica with what she said."My usual. But it's actually for Perry, so make it like he likes. Extra icing and boxed."She didn't seem her jovial or snarky self."Smallville hasn't shown up yet, but Perry did get a text from her at six-fifteen. I got the same one. Jess. We're both worried. We haven't heard from her since. It's NINE-fifteen."She pointed to the silent TV."You might want to turn that on. We have it on at the paper. Huge accident on the interstate."
The text said,Hey guys, just heading out to catch the bus. I just missed my express, but the 66 also has part of its route on the interstate. I might not make my seven o'clock deadline. Miss Lane? I'll text you when I get to the bus station.
Cat Grant, the Daily Planet news anchor for the TV portion, a redhead slightly more rust than Jessica's would be on. At the freeway, near the very Bob Evans they went to the night before, which was clearly seen in the background, was a massive wreak. A city bus was among the huge pileup. Supergirl was standing nearby."Thanks, Miss Cat. I was on my daily patrol of this area, when the tanker flipped, as fast as I am, I couldn't stop the pileup. Including the Metro 66...
Lois covered her mouth with both hands, and her sobbing"NOOOO!!!"would be heart wrenching as that bus had obviously by look, been fully engulfed in flames. She feared the worse and didn't even hear that Supergirl told Cat she had rescued EVERYONE before the bus had become engulfed. There were a bunch of injuries, some lost property, but no lives. At least from the bus. Of course everyone still had to take the mandatory trip to a hospital to be checked out. By the look on Laura's face, she didn't hear it either. She was in complete shock. She shook it off and tried to focus on helping the few office stragglers that were there. Lois began weeping,"Smallville... I'm sorry. I'm sorry I let my jealousy from being better than me and breaking my record in steno cloud my judgement.... I'm so, so sorry..."she went to her knees crying in her hands.
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Jessica had an unexpected surprise as the girl joined her. She hadn't told her to come in early, her helper taking it on her own initiative to do so. Thanks to Laura, things went more smoothly and Jessica made sure to thank her before they opened up, promising to make it up to her before covering her mouth to hide a tired yawn. There was no time to be sleepy, the morning rush was about to start and she was a woman on a mission.
The fifth customer in the line was Kara, the police chief's daughter, coming just as agreed to collect the large order. "It's nice to see you again Kara." The Baker replied with her signature smile. The girl certainly didn't speak quite normally but that, of course, didn't bother the baker, it made Kara unique. "Thank you very much, thank your father too please. I hope they enjoy! Have a wonderful day Kara Zorel." Just as quickly as she had come in, the girl had her order in hand and was turning to leave, giving way to the next customer.
Eventually Lois would come in, asking instead for Perry's order, rather than her own. Of course even if she didn't ask for hers, Jessica had already prepared the cinnamon bun for her as soon as she'd seen her. As she spoke however, Lois didn't quite seem herself, explaining how Kara hadn't shown up at work. The two cinnamon buns were on the counter when the baker turned the volume up a little on the TV, just enough to be able to hear what was being said.
Jessica suddenly went numb. The sounds around her muffled, her vision blurry as she stood behind the counter, unresponsive. The last thing she'd heard was Lois scream. It took a few moments for the baker to finally breathe once again, her senses slowly returning to her as Lois began crying, on her knees, apologising to Kara. Though she hadn't realised it herself, Jessica had tears streaming down her face, moving around the counter, over to Lois and crouching, hugging her. "We.. We don't know for sure.. Maybe... Maybe she wasn't on it. Maybe she's alright.. Maybe... Maybe..." She didn't know what else to say, tears streaming down her face non-stop as she moved Lois away to a nearby table, sitting her down on a chair.
"Lois... You need to go there. Please. For both of us. I... I can't leave Laura here alone." Jessica's face was clearly in pain, her stomach turning. She wanted to shout, to throw up, but she had to be strong.. For Lois. "Kara.. She can't be.. You have to find out Lois, you have to-" Jessica trailed off, her face pale, her hand firm on the table, holding herself up. "Kara..." Eyes shutting, the baker fell off her chair, falling on the floor, on her side, unconscious.
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"Supergirl patrols that area at six-thirty, Jess, that WAS Kara's bus! I rode it once when Kara first came to Metropolis, and even told her if she misses her express that takes her directly downtown, that was the one to take. The ride was longer and had more stops..."She shook as she began crying again.
Laura rushed to her employer's fallen side and then out and flagged down Grace on her hourly patrol by, her frantic waving even brought Supergirl down from the sky, although it was only meant to bring Grace. She apologized to everyone as she herded the customers inside to the side and asked those at the door to make room. Both women rushed to the two, Grace trying to get Lois to calm down, especially after she went hysterical over Jessica's collapse"I've lost Kara! I can't lose her, too!"
Supergirl picked Jessica up."I'm a lot faster than the ambulance, Officer Grace. I don't know how long you'll have to wait. Lois. Stop. Kara is in the hospital with smoke inhalation. She's very much alive. You need to pull yourself together, get back to the Planet, and let them know that you heard it from Supergirl herself. Kara Kent is okay, just hospitalized with smoke inhalation."She held Jessica in a princess carry as she pushed her way out of the bakery shop, and would take Jessica to the same hospital her alter ego had been admitted. Jessica would find herself on the second floor in the same room as Kara Kent, but the bed was currently empty and the cover drawn back.
Laura would be left alone to watch the bakery anyway. Which she would do as stellar as ever. She actually hoped Jessica would somehow be back before one, when Beth was to come in and take over for her.
Something had told Beth to be early, but unlike Laura, who was only an hour early, she'd come in just before the mad lunch rush at eleven. This was her dream job, after all.
gpt
It had never happened before. It was the first time Jessica had ever lost consciousness that way. There was no reason for it either, sure she hadn't slept all that much, but it wasn't so bad, was it? The news about Kara, Lois' reaction, it seemed like it had all tipped her over the edge.
"Ufgh.." The baker groaned as she opened her eyes. Her head felt fuzzy and her body heavy. It took her a few moments before she realised she wasn't in bed, her first thought having been that she had to get ready for work. The realisation quickly came however that she was not at home and she had already been to work. The memory of what had happened quickly flooded back to her and then she remembered.. "Kara!"
Although she had just fainted from exhaustion and the anxiety from the news she'd received, the first thing she did was jump out of the hospital bed, searching for a nurse. It wasn't long before she tracked one down, just outside her door. "Hi.. Excuse me, yes, I, you need to let me go, I need to get out, Kara, she... I need to know. Please." To the nurse, she was probably just babbling seemingly random sentences but Jessica was too worried to think clearly.
Fortunately it seemed the nurse was well informed and she tried to calm the baker down. "Miss Hawthorn, please return to your bed. You fainted due to exhaustion, we don't want a repeat of that. Your friend is perfectly safe, you need not worry about anyone else other than yourself. You won't have to stay here long if you don't wish to but at least, stay down for another fifteen minutes, though you should really rest for the day." The woman guided Jessica back towards the bed, one hand on her back.
"She... She's really OK? She's safe?" Jessica lay down on the bed, starting to cry once the relief settled in, the anxiety beginning to ease up. "I thought.." She took a deep breath, trying to calm down. "She's safe." She repeated to herself.
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Fifteen minutes would turn into the top of the hour. Meanwhile, not even two minutes later, Jessica would hear,"But I keep telling you guys, that's completely normal for me. I grew up on a farm, I'm not used to this smog! I've only been here a few months. I'm probably not acclimated to your dirty air!"
The nurse pushing the wheelchair, into the room, tutted. "Metropolis air is nothing compared to Gotham or Los Angeles. Miss Kent. We do not like seeing it under 90. That's why you went to that breathing test and all those monitors. When your doctor gets the readout, he'll be in here. It's up to him, and your willingness to do as you're told. Right now, you're going to get back in that bed to rest. Discussion over." She parked the wheelchair and put the brakes on, allowing Kara to get herself into the bed. Kara did so, but muttered under her breath the entire time.
The RN noticed Jessica awake, "Well, Miss Kent, looks like your roommate has come to. Say hi and then both of you... Get. Some. Rest." She then left to go to the next patient.
Kara looked over to see who it was, and just about had a relapse, since her breath caught in her throat."Jess?! What happened? Is the bakery okay? Are you okay? No, of course you aren't you wouldn't be in the hospital. Dumb, Kara, real dumb. You're supposed to be a reporter."
Meanwhile, Laura would be getting the surprise of Beth coming in, "I know Miss Jessica said noon to finish my paperwork and then take over for you, but something just told me I needed to come in early. Wait... Where IS Miss Jessica?" She noticed the beginnings of the lunch rush. "Crap. Never mind..." She grabbed an apron, had it on and was soon getting orders or actually serving those who would sit for service, smiling as she filled the requests. "Diet Citrus Drop, can. Lemonade. Prune danish and two donuts with the strawberry icing for table three!" She called to Laura before rushing to pick up the eat in order. "Enjoy, I'll be back to check... Um, as I can." Beth hated to admit it, but she hoped Jessica would be back soon from her errand (she guessed) soon, too. It was soon standing room only for both the tables and the go line.... Well, it was Friday lunch AND the first of the month.
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A big sigh escaped the baker as she had nothing else to do other than wait. She was rarely one to remain idle for long, usually the busy bee she was at the bakery and then always tidying up at home, reading a book, watching some Netflix or thinking up new pastries for her shop. Laying in bed with nothing to do was simply not her. It did, however, mean that she quickly picked up on the all too familiar voice approaching the room, listening to its complaints and the nurse's reply to these.
As soon as the nurse turned to walk out of the room, Jessica would immediately disobey her instructions, jumping out of the bed, rushing over to Kara, arms spread as she embraced the woman, leaning over her bed. "Kara! I.. I thought you.. Lois said.. And the news! It was too much. I couldn't.." Tears began to trickle down her face once again, the baker trying to calm herself down, slowing her breathing and bringing the tears to a stop before pulling back, moving back to her own bed.
"I thought I'd lost you." A worried smile on her face. "Apparently I fainted from exhaustion.. I think I may have overworked myself a little. It has been a crazy twenty-four hours. Mum must be worried and Laura.... Laura! The bakery! Oh dear, what time is it? I have to get back! I can't believe I left her alone!" Once more she was quickly going into overdrive.
Fortunately it wouldn't betoolong however before the nurse would come along with good news for the pair. If things went smoothly, perhaps the baker could still make it back in time to help with the crazy rush the girls were currently working through.
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Kara would hug back."Come on, I've seen worse, was in a barn fire as a little girl."It wasn't a memory she was proud of. She accidentally STARTED that fire by knocking over a lit lantern. And even after Pa Kent had told her NOT to be in the barn after dark or light the lantern. The Kent's literally wore out a lot of switches on her bare bottom that night... The first of many signs Kara was special and going to be special. She still learned her lesson, never being in the barn again after dark. Jonathan learned the same lesson, and he was her Pa.
She nodded,"Supergirl rescued me and all the other passengers. Wasn't THAT mentioned? I saw Miss Grant's interview with her. I thought she said that..."Well, if Lois wouldn't have jumped to a very human conclusion too soon, Jess and Lois BOTH would have heard it.
Kara did her (somewhat) best to calm Jessica down, using a soothing voice, but she couldn't put her all in, or she'd definitely be found out as Supergirl."I'm sure they're fine, from what you told me about Laura and Beth at dinner. They'll do their best. Isn't that why you hired them in the first place?"
Upon being told they'll both be discharged, as apparently the more modern equipment in the breathing test room said Kara's oxygen was at "110E", so she could also leave the hospital, they both got their clothes... Only they had to switch bags, and Kara would embarrassingly grab her bra from Jessica, blushing very red, due to the little Supergirl S and shield on one of the cups."Okay! Yes! I'm a huge fan! Even more so since she saved my life today.... Don't tell Lois, please! I'll NEVER hear the end of the wisecracks!"She was so frustrated, it took her a few tries to hook the front clasp bra on.
Since they had to be pushed in wheelchairs out of the hospital, they would be able to hold hands while the nurses strolled side by side to the exit.
Outside Kara got out of the wheelchair first to assist Jessica when an impatient double honk from a familiar car was heard. They could hear Lois holler,"Both of you, come ON! The bakery's swamped, and you gotta story to write, Smallville.... I hope!"
Laura and Beth would be thrilled to see Jessica, Beth moving back into a server role with two behind the counter, but neither would be able to really ask Jessica anything until after one when it quieted back down. Not before, at 12:30pm, a tour bus pulled up and Candy Pop herself got out with an entourage and bodyguards surrounding her. She picked a female bodyguard/security and two others to come in with her as she made her way to the counter with them, setting a small gift bag on it. "Hello, Elizabeth. You said your employer gave you the winning ticket? Is she here? Can I see her, please?" The blue and pink cotton candy colored haired pop star asked.
Candy Pop
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Even if she did say she'd seen worse, it didn't mean that Jessica would worry any less. If anything, the baker couldn't help but worry a little more, wondering just how often the reporter got herself in these kind of situations. As far as the news report earlier, it was true that both Jessica and Lois got caught up in the moment, making their assumptions before listening to the whole thing. The memory was a bit of a blur to the baker and one she would rather forget sooner rather than later.
"I really hope they are. I did hire them because I trust them but.. They're both still young, it's not fair on them, I'm supposed to be there." True to her usual self, even after what she'd just been through, Jessica was still more worried about the pair at the bakery than she was about herself.
The cute brunette next to the baker wasn't the only one blushing. Jessica herself blushed as her cute pink bra was in Kara's bag. It seemed they had been swapped. Although embarrassed, she still paused a moment to look at Kara's bra, noticing the Supergirl symbol. "I'm.. Umm.. A fan myself, I get it. Who wouldn't look up to her." She comforted her, aware that Jessica herself was a huge fan, her room including a poster or two and her search history full of Supergirl articles and fanclubs. Of course nobody knew about it, being her guilty pleasure.
A blush coloured Jessica's face on the wheelchair ride to the hospital exit as Kara took her hand, the two holding hands the entire way. With a deep breath, getting herself ready for the rest of the day ahead, the baker stood up, Lois apparently there to pick them up. "Lois!" She said in surprise, hurrying into the car. "Thank you. I can't believe I left them alone. Sorry if I worried you."
It didn't take long to get back to the bakery, Jessica rushing in without being able to give the girls much of an explanation for the time being, thanking them instead for their help and quickly getting behind the counter. The place was so busy and Jessica so focused on the task at hand, that she hadn't even realised the tour bus that stopped just outside, or who came into the bakery for that matter. It wasn't until she heard the buzzing of the people around her that Jessica looked up, eyes widening in surprise.
The day had already been crazy enough. Jessica had been up since early, barely slept, fainted from exhaustion, rushed back in to work and now, there, in her shop, just as Supergirl had come in a couple days earlier, another famous figure suddenly stood there, apparently asking for her. "C-Candy Pop?" She asked, wondering if maybe she was still in hospital and this was all a dream. "How Umm.. Can I help you?"
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Lois shook her head, and flat out lied to the baker."You didn't worry me half as much as I was worried about Kara. I wouldn't have anyone to yell at."Well, the last part was a half truth. She was more worried for her cub reporter. It wasn't for the reason she gave, though."Smallville, you had me-us worried half to death. Did you have your phone confiscated?"
Kara shook her head. Jessica would have noticed, since she'd had Kara's belongings in her bag, there was no phone or purse. In fact, she'd had a wallet. It was a ladies' wallet, but still... Was that also a farmgirl thing?"I lost my phone on the bus, Supergirl said she's replacing all of our phones that got lost in the inferno the bus became when the tanker blew up."She didn't even look up.
Lois just tutted, with a sigh, giving Jessica the look that screamed dating Kara Kent would also mean taking care of her. She was going to have her hands full with the accident prone reporter. In other words? Pure pity.
Elizabeth was waiting on the tables when Candy came in. She couldn't believe that when she won the chance to meet and talk to her, Candy would actually come to the bakery. Nodding like a grinning bobblehead, Beth pointed to the counter, telling the pair of businesswomen it would be a few minutes before she could shout their order.
Pop star smiled at the baker. "C-144 was the winning ticket to come back stage and meet me, and sing the last scheduled song on stage with me. Elizabeth, there, said you gave her the tickets, because your date had to cancel. This gift bag has two copies of my latest CD, autographed. I assume the Daily Planet reporter is a big fan as well, and a large Tshirt of my world tour logo on the front and tour dates on the back. I might have grabbed the wrong size, but I'm sure you'll wear it in good health." She gave her trademark smirk. "Elizabeth also raved about your danishes. A dozen assorted, please. Six regular and six cream cheese." She then picked an apple, apricot, mixed berry, cherry, pineapple and cinnamon for her regulars. Orange, cherry, blackberry, apple, lemon and plain on the cream cheese ones. This caused the businesswomen to both change their orders to one of the dozen the pop star ordered. "How much do I owe you?"
Danishes we're higher than the same amount of donuts, which were 12 good sized ones for ten dollars, but how much were they really? Especially when Candy insisted on paying for them, citing there wasn't a good bakery in her hometown. She wouldn't be returning there anyway for about eight months. Coffee Landing Cafe being the closest to a true bake shop. That would give her hometown away to the only person who would have even learned it, Elizabeth, of International Falls, Minnesota. Unless Jessica also knew the city.
Elizabeth would finally call back the danishes "A lemon cream cheese and blackberry cream cheese for table 7. Prune danish and a coffee for counter." The old man who had hit on Supergirl smiled and waved at Jessica. "Powdered lemon filled and Pepsi for table 2. I'm coming back to pick up."
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The blonde pop star quickly got onto the subject at hand, informing the baker as to the reason for her visit. She wasn't sure if to jump and celebrate that it had been the winning ticket, or to sigh and regret that she and Kara had missed such an opportunity. Either way, she could hardly do more than try not to stare and listen to what Candy Pop said. "Oh wow.. That's really, really generous of you. I really don't know how to thank you for thid, It's such a surprise, so amazing to meet you!
Jessica's only way to repay the pop star for her kind gesture would have been not to charge her, or, at least offer her a discount. The blonde seemed insistent on paying however, leaving little room for the bakery to argue anything back and eventually accept, quickly getting to work on the order. "I really would rather you didn't pay, it's the least I could do after you came all the way here, however, if you insist then so be it, it's $18 for the dozen. I did throw in an extra one however, call it a baker's dozen extra. It's the latest addition to the menu, approved by my friend Kara too." Jessica gave a smile.
The orders didn't seem to stop coming in, even while Candy Pop was in the store, the lunch rush still hadn't quite slowed down. Fortunately the big order for the pop star was quickly prepared and packaged her, payment swiftly carried out and allowing the baker to catch up to the other orders with her usual speed. The lunch rush was almost over and, once it was, the rest of the day would probably quiet down. She needed to rest, as per the doctors orders, but how could she while the bakery was open? It was her business, her baby.
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"I was already in town for the concert, it wasn't like I came from very far away!" With a little wave and thrown kiss to the baker, giving a few autographs to admirers in store, the pop star was out the door with her danishes, on her bus, and off to her next city on her tour.
At just after one, Beth came back around the counter as Laura asked her boss to please sit down and take a break. She and Beth could handle the few remaining stragglers as the lunch rush mercifully ended. Beth would even continue her server role, asking Jessica what she wanted to eat and drink. She had surprisingly took every order, getting it right, without writing it down first. She'd only do that when she'd stop to make the tab for the eat in order.
There was still the matter of Beth's paperwork and getting her signature, but even the high school teen wanted Jessica to catch her breath, citing she could see how tired she was. Sure, she wanted everything all nice and legal, but gently reminded Jess she really hadn't had time with the explosion the day before, and it being the first of the month.
The afternoon edition of The Daily Planet would have Kara's report on the massive pileup on the interstate, as well as her account of being on the Metro 66 that was involved. It would include an interview with the Fire Chief Patricia "Pat" Benson, and Police Chief Conrad "Connie" Zorel, along with deaths and injuries including the poor truck driver, some local man, proving, unfortunately, Supergirl couldn't save everyone. She was fallible after all.
Despite the loss of a few people on the interstate, Supergirl's reputation and admiration would continue to grow, even Lex Luthor would be quoted as saying, "You know, that alien is alright. There were no deaths at the apartment collapse, and she just couldn't be everywhere on the interstate. There would have been far more deaths without her."
Of course, the afternoon edition wouldn't land on the Hawthorn residence until five in the afternoon. Unfortunately, Kara would also be too exhausted to show up at the bakery. The next day would be her interview as Supergirl with her mentor, and Lois had insisted on the bakery.
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First Supergirl, now Candy Pop.. Jessica couldn't believe her humble initiative, her little bakery had taken on so much popularity. Ever since the article was published by Kara on the daily planet, things had begun to change quite quickly. The baker had to consider a possible expansion, maybe even hiring someone that could help with the baking once Beth had to return to school. Though she appreciated the help from the two girls, most of the baking was done by her. She was sure Beth would probably enjoy learning but the girl had enough with school.
Once the rush had calmed down, the two girls suggested, or rather, instructed her, to take a seat and let them take over. The baker asked her newest employee for a normal cream cheese Danish and some water, sitting down at a table near the counter in case she needed to help out. Of course Jessica was never one to simply sit still, so, even though she may have been tired, she had to find something to do. The baker began to prepare the paperwork for Beth, thinking in the meantime how she could reward both girls for their tremendous efforts.
After a small rest, before getting up, she asked Beth to take a look at the paperwork and sign if she was happy with it. She was sure the girl would be happy with it. Soon enough, once it was all signed, Jessica got back to work for the rest of the afternoon, asking Laura to take off a little earlier as a thank you for her help, making sure the girl got some rest too. She would handle things along with Beth the rest of the afternoon, it proved much calmer but the baker still let out a sigh of relief as she closed off for the day.
When she finally arrived home, Jessica took her shoes off and dropped down on the couch. She reassured her mother that she was alright, comforting her that the hospital said it was all good and she just needed to rest. They read the news on the interstate accident. It seemed that Supergirl hadn't quite been able to save everyone, making the baker feel theat much more thankful and fortunate that Kara was still alive. Even if she hadn't saved everyone, the fact that Supergirl was in Metropolis was a blessing, many more would have died if not for her. Even the millionaire Lex Luthor had come out complimenting her.
As night came, Jessica went to bed earlier than usual, deciding perhaps it really was best to heed the advice of the nurses. It certainly proved to be so as she was knocked out almost as soon as her head touched her pillow.
The next morning, when she woke up, the baker felt much more energetic thankfully, facing the day with a big smile on her face as she stepped out the shower and went about her daily routine. Normally she would have left some things ready but she had been too tired the previous day so it took a little longer than usual to fill the displays at the bakery. By opening time however, everything was ready and with Laura at her side and her bright smile back on her face, she was ready for the day.
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Beth was more than happy with the paperwork, signing her full name like she would have on her social security card. Elizabeth Laurel Firestone, it would read in cursive writing. Sure, she might go by Beth and Betty (people for some reason choosing the former nickname more than the latter) but for business papers, her parents, and especially her mom, would always push her to sign her full legal name. So, she did. She had earlier served Jessica exactly as she ordered, with her own bright smile, asking her to call her back over if she needed anything else. Well, yes, completing her paperwork for her job! She was then given a 6a-230p shift for Saturday. Beth opened her mouth but was quickly silenced by being reminded, by of all people Laura, the hours she had already put in. Noon-530 Thursday (paid with the tickets) and 11-close that day, Friday. She promised Beth starting next Saturday, she could work all day with Jessica if she so desired, nodding to her boss that if Beth wanted the 12 hour Saturday shift, 5a-5p, including helping bake, Beth could HAVE the 12 hour Saturday shift. She'd come in noon -close.
Saturday morning 845a
"Are you sure you don't want your Cinnamon Roll, yet, Miss Lois?" Beth asked the Pulitzer winning star reporter for the Daily Planet, trying hard to smile, but worry showing through.
Lois checked her watch for the umpteenth time in the last fifteen minutes."I'm sure, Elizabeth, just another coffee, please, and a few more creamers."Lois said, shooing the girl who was only doing her job. Just as Beth set the coffee down, Supergirl walked in."Well, it's about time, young lady! When you tell someone a specific time, you do your damnedest to be on time! What if this had been an interview for a job, here, huhn? What would you have told Jessica about your ability to be punctual? I swear! You're more time dense than Smallville, and that's saying something! Sit! You're lucky I'm in a good mood. I thought you said you didn't have anything to do this morning? Isn't that what you said over the phone? Rhetorical. Let's get started..."She then nodded to Elizabeth who nodded back and called Lois's cinnamon roll order to Jessica.
Laura couldn't help aside to Jessica as Supergirl just asked for a root beer, forgetting that's usually what she ordered as Kara. "Dang, Miss Lane just tore Supes a new one, and she just sat there and took it."
Lois lowered her pen."My Lord. You ARE still in high school, aren't you?! I can understand Kara Kent only drinking root beer, that's pretty much what to drink in Smallville, Kansas. I did finally get her to switch up to tea, and chocolate flavored coffee. She turned me onto that Sunkist Orange-Mango soda. Don't you drink anything else?"
Supergirl shrugged."Other sodas, water, soda water. Something about the carbonation, I guess. Except the water."
Lois groaned and nodded. She'd already read Supergirl the riot act for being late. Even Jessica would be able to see Lois was ready to open up some more lecture about all that pop couldn't be good for Supergirl no matter where she was from.
"A&W ok, Supergirl? I don't think Miss Jessica has any other kind." Beth asked and after Supergirl nodded, Beth called, "Bottle of A&W root beer! Coming up for pickup!"
The interview would last until almost noon, and when Supergirl left, looking a little embarrassed, Lois approached to pay her bill."Jess... We need to be careful around her. I'll also warn Grace about my suspicious. Unless you can when she comes in. Normally, I wouldn't, but everyone with a crush on Supergirl should be careful, because if she IS a minor... She can't be more than 15 or 16... She's jailbait. She has to be a high school student. She even admitted, when pressed, she recognizes Elizabeth."She looked to Elizabeth who looked unsurprised."As an 'upperclassman of Metropolis Central'. You are going into 12th right?"After Beth nodded, Lois returned her gaze to Jessica."I don't know how to take that part about being from Krypton, maybe an overactive teen girl's imagination, because I can't help but believe her when she said she didn't take drugs and they were 'icky'. Sounds like a high school student to me. I won't print what I can't prove, so don't expect this story until I verify it. Too much was far fetched, but somehow believable, at the same time."A sigh,"Thanks for the use of the bakery for the interview. How much do I owe you for the three coffees, cinnamon roll and Supergirl's root beer?"Lois was ignoring one major clue. The root beer.
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Though the usual line had built up outside the bakery in the morning, there was no Lois or Kara.. Or Supergirl to be seen. Lately it had become a familiar sight to see one of them waiting to get in. Instead, she had her usual familiar faces, some neighbours, some people getting in before work and some tourists. The article that Kara had written had somehow been published on a travel website as one of the must visits in metropolis, leading to a constant stream of tourists, mostly during peak hours.
It was only quite a while later that Lois arrived. The baker had almost forgotten that the reporter would be conducting her long-awaited interview at the bakery. It did make Jessica a little nervous, wondering what kind of commotion would build up but she was always happy to see her favourite hero - and Lois of course. It seemed however that, much to Lois' dismay, Supergirl was fashionably late. The reporter refused her pastry until the heroine arrived, a wait which proved longer than the woman seemed happy to take.
If Lois' expression and the tapping of her pen hadn't been enough indication of her annoyance at Supergirl, the way she scolded the blonde star as she entered the bakery would have certainly given it away. She wasn't wrong in what she said of course, but she certainly seemed scary saying it. Jessica's first thought was to thank the heavens her mother hadn't scolded her that way, almost letting out a giggle at how the heroine was being told off. It almost reminded her of how Lois was with Kara.
Other than preparing the order, Jessica didn't quite interact with the pair, she tried her best to focus on the customers, not letting her excellent customer service falter, but she did also keep an eye on Lois and Supergirl. She couldn't really overhear anything that was being said, having to judge on how it was going simply via pure observation. The interview went on for far longer than she'd expected, Lois been the thorough reporter she was and knowing she may not get another chance like that.
Supergirl seemed to leave almost in a hurry, looking a little rattled, or embarrassed perhaps. One could only wonder what Lois might have asked her or even told her off for. Once the heroine was out of the door, the reporter approached to settle the bill, but not before she started speaking to Jessica. The baker's jaw almost dropped at the suggestion that Supergirl may have still been in high school. Of course the basis for it wasn't all too solid, simply judging the heroine on her preferences, but, it was Lois saying it. As everyone had grown to know, the reporter did have a sense for things. It did make the baker feel slightly odd, seeing as she secretly idolised the Superhero.
"I honestly don't know what to say.. Do you really think so? What about the symbols.. I saw them once, you think she would have made up her own language too? What about her parents, does she have any?" The baker had plenty of questions to which the reporter would likely not know the answer to either. "I don't think we should jump to any conclusions, I'm sure she's old enough to know what she's doing. She's a Superhero, even if she doesn't take such good care of herself, that's what we're for.. Right?" She tried to shift the attention slightly as she calculated Lois' total. "Anyway, I'm sure you'll get to the bottom of it." She reassured the reporter with a big smile. "That'll be $12 please, and you know you can use it anytime, you're always welcome here Lois."
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Lois nodded."That threw me at first, and she didn't have a sample except in her own handwriting. When it came to her flying, super strength, speed and other physical attributes, all I got was a bunch of normal, Earthbound advanced science and physics. With no published books in this Kryptonese, those symbols are nothing more than some made up code that only she knows. I need to check some old articles of various papers around the world for this cousin she claims to have. He's supposed to be younger than her. Yet, get this. Supposedly left Krypton the same time she did... As a baby. So, how hard could it be to find someone else with her powers, and around her age?"A shrug."Yes. She's got the intelligence the way she spouted physics at me. Stereotypical nerd. Stereotypical blonde. Foster parents. Amazon adopted aunt. She doesn't know who her real birth parents are, just a name and spelling. Get this. Look."Lois gladly showed it. Five letters, except for a dash, that would be very familiar.Zor-El"Her birth name, except for the e being capitalized, looks VERY familiar, Jess. I have to ask the police chief a few questions about his family to see if a brother or sister of his gave a daughter up for adoption. I'll bet you a day's work this is all going to have an Earthbound answer. If I'm right, you shadow me for a day. You do have Laura and Elizabeth to take care of things here. If I'm wrong... And facts state she's an alien like Lex says without proof, I work here one day of your choosing. Deal?"She put out her hand for a shake. Either way, Lois would win, because she'd have one hell of a story. Either a day in the life of a baker, or Supergirl revealed as a normal Earth girl with extraordinary powers.
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Jessica listened. Closely. Lois did make some good points. Just because Supergirl wrote these symbols, doesn't mean that she was an alien, or spoke a different language. It could have very well been made up by her. However, why go through such lengths? The heroine showed her face every day while saving the world, she asked for nothing in return and had nothing to gain from having people believe she was an alien or creating her own language. It was the part about the cousin that really struck the Baker though. It was very true that if there were anyone else with her powers, surely they would have heard something. How long could someone actually hide something like that? "Hmm.. I don't know Lois. Maybe the cousin didn't come to Earth? Or maybe-"
As Lois moved on to mention the name Zor-El and how familiar it seemed, she had cut off the baker mid-sentence, surprising her with the information. Without Jessica having much of a say in it, Lois seemed to have roped her into her game, her hand out to be shaken in agreement. Jessica sighed. "I'm not sure this is such a good idea Lois.. It's the police chief you'll be asking, he's a nice guy but you might offend him saying such things. I really can't imagine what kind of experiments would give anyone the ability to have such powers, especially not flying.. But.. " Another sigh. "No matter what I say I guess you're going to go ahead and do it anyway." She laughed. "Fine. It's a deal. Get your apron ready as you'll be here soon then!" She called to her playfully.
As they shook hands, a large group of tourists came into the bakery. Jessica had made friends with one of the tour guides who came in and tasted her pastries after the article had been published and the woman had agreed to bring in every tour she managed to get her hands on to try 'the best pastries in the US' as she had called them. The baker quickly got back to work, asking Lois to please be careful and not offend anyone in her search for the truth about Supergirl, and dealing with the large group that appeared not long before the lunch rush. Fortunately she swiftly dealt with the group and offered the guide her usual chocolate-filled doughnut, giving a few minutes to prepare for the oncoming rush. While waiting, her mind drifted to Kara, wondering what the cub reporter may have been up to, thinking whether she should text her, perhaps ask to meet after work, it had been a long time since she'd done anything fun, aside from their date the other night.
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Lois smirked."I'll have my apron ready, but will you have a pen and notebook ready if I DO prove she's Earthbound? Thanks for reminding me..."She jotted down the name STAR Labs as she left, giving Jess a wink and finger gun salute.
Elizabeth seemed disappointed that the lunch rush actually fizzled out around a quarter after twelve. Two groups of tourists, the one that came in just as Lois was wrapping up and leaving, most of which went right back out, and a much smaller group not with any touring company, that ate in.
Laura got busy with something in the back, as Beth checked to see if Jess wanted a 15 minute break. It seemed slow for a Saturday, which wasn't normal, especially since the article.
Supergirl had been heard, making sonic booms across the sky, but more often than not, seemed to be over the bay, and as two-thirty drew near and Beth being sent home until Monday, she had to ask. "What are we or you... It won't be we until next week... Going to do with any extra donuts and pastries when you get ready to close, today? Or are you going to start opening on Sunday? If you do... When would your day off be? You deserve one, too." Beth seemed genuinely concerned for her new boss. She had always looked up to Jess for the last two years, and now, as her employee, wanted to look out for her, as well.
Kara Kent came in, looking run down, tossed her notepad at a table and sat in the chair, rubbing her face and knocking her glasses askew. The time was 2:28pm.
"Good afternoon Miss Kent, welcome to Hawthorn Bakery, I'll be your server, Beth. What can I get for you?" Beth asked brightly with a grin.
Kara groaned."See if Miss Jess has an ibuprofen and some tap water with a little ice..."She rubbed her temples."You must be the new girl I heard abow-OWT!"Grimacing and wincing, she grabbed her head. Supergirl had just got her first migraine, and it was worse than any villain she'd ever faced before in the last month plus. Good thing she was in her civilian identity of Kara Kent!
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Jessica chuckled a little at Lois' rebuttal. "No need to worry about that, I always keep a pen on me and a small notepad, just need to upgrade that little note pad to a bigger one if the need arises." The baker may have been humble but she did love a challenge, and, though many probably didn't know it about her, she was quite the competitive spirit and didn't like being wrong.
With the lunch rush dying out fairly quickly, it gave Jessica a comforting breath of fresh air. Of course from a business perspective, it would have been far better to have a long line of customers in waiting and empty out her bakery, but after the last few days, the baker just needed a rest above all else so when Beth asked her if she wanted a small break, she quickly agreed to it, going round to the back and dropping onto a chair in the kitchen area, yawning as she did.
The small break was enough to have the baker almost falling asleep, a fierce battle against her eyelids to stay awake. As the afternoon passed, Beth would soon be finishing her shift, leaving just Jessica and Laura. "I usually take some to any shelters in the area, but, if you want any, feel free to take some, there's plenty. You've certainly worked hard enough to earn that and more." The woman smiled, comforting her newest employee. "Don't worry about me, I'm still closing on Sundays, I clearly need to get some more rest than I have been as of late and I intend to make sure I do." Her words were honest though deep down, she knew herself, she couldn't help overworking herself if there was a need for it.
The biggest surprise of the afternoon was seeing Kara walk in, almost as if she'd read Jessica's mind earlier. She'd walked in only minutes before Beth was due to end her shift, the girl diligently taking the cub reporter's order. The baker was already on her way to the table to greet Kara when she heard her, watching as she grabbed her head. "Are you alright Kara?" She asked, concerned, approaching a little more rapidly. "Did you get enough rest like the nurses said? Or have you been overworking yourself?" Quickly she began to 'mother' her. "Hold on a second." She said, disappearing into the back of the bakery.
About thirty seconds later, Jessica reappeared with some ibuprofen and water for Kara, taking a seat next to her since the bakery was fairly quiet. "Here. Swallow this and drink some water. Tell me what's going on."
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Kara shook her head and waved for Jessica to sit, or at least it looked like it. She downed the medicine in a flash and drank most the water. Beth quickly topped it off before going to sign out. Kara was the only customer."Damn Navy and Supergirl war games.... My head is killing me thanks to all their sonic booms over the bay today. Hephaestus is banging the hell out of his anvil, and the rest of Princess Diana's gods and goddesses are having a bowling tournament in my head, including my sinuses. Ugh."It would sound like a migraine for sure.
Kara told on herself as well as the Navy. Now, Jessica would know what all the racket was from just after noon until two. Apparently, Supergirl wasn't alone setting off sonic booms and they weren't ALL sonic booms. She pointed to her notebook for Jessica to see the notes. Apparently the two parties had taken turns being the enemy. The Navy recording ten hits and so did Supergirl as the 'good guy'. There was even an interesting remark on the Navy's fifth hit on Supergirl. "Oof! That one hurt! Right in the face!" Again, a seemingly first person account of Supergirl's seventh hit on the Navy. "To the moon, Lt. Commander Alice Kramden!"
Back to the present, Beth didn't bother Miss Jessica with what she took, two lemon filled donuts (her favorite), and two strawberry whipped cream filled (her mom's), but wrote them down so Jessica could keep track of the inventory. She did wave and made a sign to Miss Jessica as she left, about the autographed CD Candy Pop had brought for Kara that was in the gift bag.
Since Laura was letting Beth have the 12 hour Saturday shift, Beth's mornings to help Jessica bake would be Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. At least until school started on the 25th (A Monday, but Beth would have to leave the bakery for school no later than 7:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays and only be able to work an hour and a half after school). Then, it would only be Saturdays.
Meanwhile, Kara whined as she continued to hold her head. For a farmgirl, she was a real baby when it came to migraines... But then... Aren't we all?
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It had seemed like an excessive amount of noise to be coming from the blonde Superheroine alone but Jessica hadn't really questioned it until Kara explained the source of those, previously accepting it as just a busy day in the life of Supergirl. She giggled a bit as Kara explained what it felt like. "You know, I'm starting to think Lois is right, not so tough for a farm girl!" She stuck her tongue out playfully at her. "You shouldn't have been out there after yesterday though... But! Since you came all the way here.. I do have a little surprise for you."
The baker shuffled around behind her, pulling something out of a bag while waving at Beth as she left. Turning back to the beauty sitting with her, Jessica stretched her hand out, holding in her hands the autographed CD by Candy Pop, giving it to Kara. "Guess what famous person popped by the bakery to drop this off!" She spoke excitedly, perhaps a little louder than she should have. "Apparently the tickets you got were the winning tickets and Beth told her about our date."
Jessica gave Kara a few moments to take it all in, hoping it would also serve to cheer her up a little. It wasn't however the only surprise she had for the reporter. "There is a little something else though.." She smiled excitedly. "Wait here." The baker rushed off the seat, into the back of the shop, returning only seconds later with a plate in hand, placing it on the table for Kara. "There's a special delivery for you. One very special, still experimental, Orange-Mango Danish." The baker blushed slightly, always nervous when giving a new flavour to someone. "I hope you like it." Her fingers started to fidget on the table, eyes looking down at the Danish.
human
Kara hadn't been watching if Jessica had checked her notes and pointed to her notebook. She had rewritten things from shorthand to regular, since she wanted someone besides Lois to proofread it. She whimpered and winced, eyes tightly shut and teeth clinched as Jessica talked about Candy Pop's visit, and the winning ticket. Rubbing her temples, she complained,"Jehh-essss! My head! Owwww!"It wasn't a put on for her, it was the first migraine she ever had in her life. She let the grimace fade to a smile as she looked at the autographed CD."Wow. One of our seats won..."Although she was obviously elated, Kara knew better to jump for joy. One, she'd give herself away for sure, because she'd have been through the roof for sure, literally. Two, the migraine was painfully real. And three, any fan knew they would have also sang with Candy... On stage. Missing out on that was a major disappointment."I wonder what song Elizabeth sang on stage with her. Usually it's Girl School Daze since it's about Candy's first girl crush, which was also her best friend. The fan usually sings as her best friend she's crushing on."
Kara smiled best she could at the danish, and hoped for once her jaw worked right. It felt like it was unhinged, as every time she opened her mouth her head hollered."I'll let the medicine start taking effect before I try to eat it, but it smells wonderful. I couldn't see this being with cheese cake, so glad you didn't try that... Your marmalade you use for your orange cheese cake one I really like, so that's a plus."She realized what she said, (No wonder she said it as Supergirl and Lois actually blew up over it)"I'm sorry. I meant cream cheese. Sorry. I did that to Supergirl, too."
gpt
Too focused on the woman opposite her, Jessica hadn't quite realised the notebook, or its contents at least. It wasn't until the reporter pointed at it that she understood she wanted a second opinion on them. In the meantime however, it seemed that the migraine was only getting worse. Of course Jess had no idea that this was Kara's first migraine ever, or how dangerous a migraine could be considering her secret identity. Even her reaction to the surprise that Candy Pop had left for her seemed somewhat underwhelming, albeit understandably so. "It really is a bad one, isn't it?" She finally said when Kara refused to eat the danish for the time being. "Are you sure you should even be here?" As she asked, she was still reading the notepad. "It's no wonder you've got such a migraine, were you even wearing any protective gear while there? Anything to help block the noise?" Her tone was almost offended, upset at Kara's lack of care for herself, not that the baker was any better.
With a sigh, Jessica lay back on the chair, thinking about what she could do to help Kara while she apologised for mistaking cream cheese for cheese cake. It was only as the reporter mentioned Supergirl that Jessica actually recalled the superheroine making the same mistake. Though it wasn't enough to raise suspicion as to the fact that they were the same person, seeing as it was a mistake that the baker often heard for some reason, it certainly made her shake her head with a slight laugh. "You know, you and Supergirl are actually not that different. She made the exact same mistake and got a big earful from Lois. Have to admit it was sort of funny to watch. Even she struggled to take on Lois. Anyway, how about we move you into the back? I can turn the lights off there, it'll probably help that migraine of yours, you can even close your eyes for a little while if you like. On the bright side however, it's good to see that your writing hasn't suffered. I honestly don't know how you could write in the middle of all that noise." She returned the notebook over to the reporter, offering her hand as she stood up to help her into the back.
human
Kara nodded, rubbing her temples, as the questioning began."Lois would just yell at me. At least you're not yelling."She commented about being at the bakery."I don't dare go home, I'll get yelled at over the phone."Although she could hear just fine, Kara knew she had to make up some viable excuse, so used the one Lois had while interviewing a pit crew of the racing champion during the final race."Have you ever tried carrying on a conversation with those bulky earphones they give you? You end up having to take them off altogether in order for you to hear the interviewee answer your questions,"she shrugged, then mentioned the actual event during an interview with a Navy Admiral about the war games."Even the admiral I was interviewing had to finally pull them off so he could hear my questions. And I get it, 'Ma Hawthorn'... I just didn't see an alternative."She'd save the quiet, scolded puppy routine for when she was scolded by Jessica as Supergirl... After all, she'd already unknowingly started that when she was scolded by authority, which is what started the rumors of Supergirl being a high school student. Might as well keep that part of the image going.
She grabbed the danish after sticking notebook under her arm, took Jessica's hand, and followed Jessica back to the back room. Laura just merely shrugged, used to Jess helping people out. Kara blushed at how she and Supergirl weren't that different because of what she called the danishes."Uh. I just admitted, I called them cheesecake when I told her about them. I guess it would go to figure she would, considering her source."She tried to recall the incident."I, uh, gotta wonder... I mean, Lois does have that power over a lot of people. Do you think she's really a high school teen, then?"Kara sort of winced. She didn't need to be a reporter right now. She needed to get rid of the killer headache. Being quiet and closing her eyes would be exactly what was needed.
gpt
Kara's reason for not wearing the headphones was fairly sound but it wasn't enough for the baker, not when it meant that she had been risking her safety and wellbeing all just to cover a story. Surely she could have done the interview after the training between the army and Supergirl was over, in a more quiet scenario. Of course Jessica herself was in no position to say otherwise and hence, she didn't, she simply accepted Kara's reasoning while giving a soft laugh at being called 'Ma Hawthorn.' She did have a tendency of quickly defaulting to a motherly, somewhat overbearing perhaps, personality as soon she saw someone suffering, specially someone she cared for like Kara. She had tried to hold back, to control it in the past but it was just who she was, she couldn't help but worry, and, deep down, she sometimes also enjoyed the little lecture she gave along with it.
As the pair entered the back of the bakery, Kara asked about Lois' hunch on Supergirl. Jessica didn't reply quite yet, first taking her time to place the reporter down on a small two-seater couch she had at the back, dimming the lights and closing the blinds. "That should do a little better. Light really doesn't help when it comes to migraines." She smiled, sitting next to her. "As for Supergirl, I don't think she's a high schooler, I certainly hope not too as I may have had a crush on her too. Not sure how I'd feel about that if I found out she was in high school." She laughed, admitting her crush to Kara. "I understand why Lois might believe that but I think behind her appearance and personality, there's a lot more going on behind the scenes. I've got no proof of that of course but I'd like to believe I'm good at reading people." She smiled before returning to the matter at hand. "And you, what I can read on you is that you need to close your eyes and rest for a little while, so you do that. I'll be at your service should you need anything." Blushing slightly, Jessica leaned in, kissing Kara's cheek.
human
Kara nodded."I know the feeling. You saw my Supergirl bra. At least she waited a month before showing up here. But still, over the fourth of July weekend?"A shrug. She didn't realize the irony of it at the time, but she had picked the most family oriented summer holiday to appear as Supergirl."You're right of course. A few hours will help. We can talk later."She had to smile at the kiss to the cheek.

By closing time, Kara was awake, but there had seemed to be that final rush from 3:30-5:00 that happened every Saturday when people would come in to get their daily dose of donuts for the next day as well. Even Grace showed up for her two apple fritters... The last two, as the patrol officer had been instrumental in making them popular. One more tour group had come in, and even Laura hoped thatSevere Storms Safariwasn't a bad omen. Jessica would know better. Once a month, usually on a Saturday, they usually did come in. March to November. In fact, they were the first out of towners to come in, and that was by accident. Literally. They had to go around an accident and then got stuck in a traffic jam right in front of her fairly new bakery at the time, a few years ago. They were back once a month after that. It couldn't be proven it was the leader of the tour, but over that winter, the travel guides started mentioning her bakery as a "Metropolis Must-see". Kara's article this month sealed the deal. It just didn't catch fire until the article was printed and joined the tour guides online.
Kara handed the plate to Jessica."Almost as good as the soda, just a little too sugary. Think the mango may be too sweet, so try it on me again with just the marmalade mixed with the mango and no added sugar. Might not be as popular as your others, but it'll be unique. Thanks for trying."She knew she was going to have to show up as Supergirl either Monday or Tuesday morning when the bakery opened to see if Jessica had time to try to make the jalapeno cream cheese danish.
gpt
The afternoon wasn't awfully busy, at least not until the afternoon rush came in. Even then, it wasn't too bad. Jessica had learned to plan ahead for this, even more so on Saturdays when more people than usual showed up in anticipation of Sunday when the bakery would be closed. The crowd of both known and unknown faces was quickly served, Laura handling the tables while Jessica stayed at the counter. Most orders were to take away which would make the girls task slightly easier. Jessica loved the business behind the counter and she wanted to be the face of the bakery, she enjoyed providing the customer service that she'd become known for and found nothing to be more rewarding than customers leaving with a smile on their face.
It was about closing time when Kara finally came out from the back, looking a lot better it seemed. Unfortunately her review of the pastry wasn't quite as positive as Jessica had hoped for. It seemed the danish still had some work to be done, a few adjustments to try and get it up to standard. Even though the review wasn't great however, the baker was thankful for it and smiled at Kara. "Thank you for the honest review. I'll make sure to adjust for next time." She gave the reporter a wink.
"So Umm... Are you busy tomorrow? It's my day off.. I thought we could um, maybe go somewhere?" She blushed slightly, continuing with a last few mumbles words. "Like a d-date?"
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Laura didn't have Beth's seemingly eidetic memory, as she found herself having to write orders down before calling back. It probably was a good thing that most were to go, and usually those that did eat in were residents of the neighborhood.
Kara sighed."I wished I could give it a better review, but, I guess if something is too sweet for me, and you know me, I like sweet, then it might not be palatable for most others."Kara blushed as Jessica asked her out, as Laura began boxing up what's left of the donuts, she put a box of mixed creme filled to the side. A strawberry, chocolate, vanilla, three eclairs and two custard , which were the usual eight she grabbed for herself and her sorority house. She then went back to boxing a mix of others that Jessica would deliver to those in need, as Kara finally shrugged."Lois hasn't told me yet we're doing anything tomorrow, so I guess I'm free all day. Where do you want to go? Or see? Or do?"There was always the ever popular Ocean City Amusement Park, but Sunday was ALWAYS the park's busiest of the week and jam-packed with families. The likelihood of the two having any place to escape to talk would be minimal, but fun would be out of this world.
gpt
Maybe she had rushed it a little too much. She really wanted to have it done for Kara though. Jessica wasn't one to give up anyway, the amount of failed attempts she'd made before perfecting some of her best sellers would surprise many if they were to know. Many thought she was some star baker, some kind of prodigy but it was nothing more than hard work and repetition. She perfected her recipes down to the smallest detail. In baking, everything mattered, no detail was too small and getting that right balance was sometimes just a stroke of luck, something she wasn't afraid to admit. Right now however, her mind was elsewhere as Kara mentioned she was free all day, seemingly agreeing to the date.
"Hmmm well, I actually haven't been on many dates." She laughed a little. "Maybe I should have planned something before asking?" She pressed her palm to her forehead. "Alright, well, I've got two ideas. Not sure which one sounds best so you decide. The first is the Amusement Park, you know, that popular one.. The... umm.. Ocean City I think it was?" She bit her lower lip gently trying to recall the exact name. "So, yeah, there's that.. OR.. I could prepare us a picnic. I think they just opened a new park just on the outskirts of metropolis. It's also got a really nice view of the sunset apparently if we stay there that long." She smiled, wondering which of the two her date would prefer.
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Kara thought about the two choices, and turned to face the bay to the east. She then turned to face west."Sunset Park. That's the only new one. It wasn't open to the public yet when I first came here."She pointed in the direction of the park."And I think you're right. It was named cuz it's on the western side of Metropolis, like you said, on the outskirts... That sounds good, I think I'd like it more. No stories, no worries... Hopefully, no Lois, because I'm surely not saying anything more than it's a sort of make up date from the concert."She took Jessica in her arms, pulling her gently close.
Laura just shook her head and grabbed the broom to sweep up the kitchen and behind the counter, setting her (and her sorority's) donuts by her college jacket, and leaving the ones Jessica would take to the shelter on the counter.
gpt
"That's the name!" The baker called out as Kara mentioned it. It seemed like she liked the idea, a wide smile quickly spreading on Jessica's face as she agreed to the idea. The smile would only grow wider, accompanied by a deep blush as Kara took her in her arms, pulling her closer to her with what felt like a comfortingly warm hug. Jessica didn't move, not until Kara herself finally ended it. It felt nice in her arms, comforting, safe even.
As she moved back, she averted Kara's look for a moment while recomposing herself and allowing the blush to fade a little. "Right, well, it's a date then! I'll prepare the food, I'll take some of the leftovers from tonight too. Might give that little special of yours another try in the morning if mum's got nothing that she needs my help with. I'll get the balance right this time!" A confident look now coloured her face, a look she often had whenever faced with a challenge. She hated losing, competitive even against herself. "Right, so um, I should really close up here. Poor Laura's been sorting it all out. I really don't deserve these girls." She shook her head, still somewhat in disbelief as to how lucky she'd gotten with them.
"Well, have a good Sunday Laura. Enjoy your evening tonight too. You've really gone above and beyond this week. You deserve a good rest." She waved goodbye at her employee, leaving Kara and her alone to finish closing up. The baker collected her things, along with the remaining leftovers Laura had prepared and headed for the back door after locking the front. "Ready to go then?" She asked with a smile. "I've got to deliver these, I won't keep you any longer. What time should we meet tomorrow then? Say around midday?"
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Kara made a face,"Sure you do. Every boss deserves employees they can trust."The reassurance along with the smile was dangerously close to spilling her secret. Kara had better hope Jessica wasn't extremely alert, and be thankful Lois hadn't seen the smile or heard the words.
Laura waved, "Head sister is planning a Girls' Weekend In, believe me I'm looking forward to a nice quiet Sunday. See you, Monday, Jess."
Kara just watched as Jessica finished locking up.And I thought I was fast.she thought as she watched."Huh? Oh, sure. You're pretty fast. I didn't think to time it, but you might give Supergirl a run for her money in locking up. She might need an incentive, like a kitten stuck on the door frame, to beat you."Well, Kara wasn't lying about that. She'd only move if an innocent life was on the line. Jessica may very well beat her in a fair lock up race. She put hand to her chin when asked about the time."For me, midday actually begins at eleven in the morning. A better question would be where. I'm close to Sunset Park."Like ten miles is close. Of course, being in the newly developed suburbs meant she was about 15 from Hawthorn Bakery, which was a couple miles from the downtown bus terminal."How about the West Side Shopping Mall? It's about three miles due east of the park? Wait... How are you going to get there?"Kara was duly concerned.
gpt
Kara's words were quite reassuring, enough that the baker was too distracted between the words and her gorgeous smile to even consider any sort of link between the reporter and Supergirl. Not that Kara didn't seem kind or willing to help others, but it would have been hard to imagina her as Supergirl anyway, the two women seemed nothing alike, not really anyway.
Jessica laughed at the crazy suggestion that she would ever be able to compete against someone like supergirl, even if it were something as simple as closing up the bakery. The Superheroine could probably have it done before the baker even had time to blink. Still, she appreciated the sentiment. "Hmm.. A kitten stuck somewhere is a pretty big incentive. Maybe I'd get an adrenaline rush and beat her, who knows?" She shrugged, joking along with her date.
Jess nodded regarding the time. She may have had to wake up a little earlier to meet at eleven but it wasn't an issue. "Oh, don't worry about that. I'll take the train, or bus, I'm used to public transport. I do have a licence but barely been behind a wheel so tend to avoid driving, especially in this place. These roads are scary." She knew it sounded a little silly but there was something about driving that made her nervous. "How about you? How will you get there Kara?"
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Kara winced, slightly."Might want to get the all day pass for the Metro, it's good for any route, but only the Sunset runs that far west. It's the 77. I'll have to catch two. The 66 to get me there, and the 77 after we meet up at the Mall. At least you have a few more choices, the 5, 13 and..."She blushed and start giggling... Almost uncontrollably."I'm sorry, I'm sorry, just... Pffftt! Ha! The 69!"For someone having been in town only two months, she had retained at least a year's worth of bus schedule knowledge. To top it all off, she couldn't be sure Jessica would get the lesbian irony of route 69.
She walked with Jessica and after finally getting herself back under emotional control, offered to carry the donuts for Jessica."I'll have to walk to the closest 66 stop, which is the downtown terminal. Where are you going to be taking these?"she asked curiously.
gpt
Jessica walked along the beautiful reporter, listening as she explained how to get there. If the baker hadn't known Kara was a reporter, she'd have thought the woman worked for the metro, her knowledge of the routes off the top of her head almost expert, especially for someone who wasn't from the city itself. She couldn't understand why all of a sudden, Kara started giggling and blushing, not until she actually mentioned the 69 and all of a sudden, Jessica's face turned a deep red, a slight giggle along with it as she momentarily thought of it, of her, with Kara... Her eyes darted down to the ground as they continued walking.
"Oh.. I'm sort of walking that way too. There's a shelter on the way there, my usual stop to drop these off. They've always been really nice, I know a lot of people there. Even though they don't have much, they're always willing to help others. They were always at the bakery when I started off. I don't think I'll ever be able to repay their kindness." She smiled nostalgically. It wasn't a long walk until they arrived however, meaning she would soon be parting from Kara's side.
After a few minutes walk, the shelter came to be just around the corner. "Well, this is me it seems. I umm.. I'm really looking forward to tomorrow... to our date." She blushed as she said the word, still in slight disbelief that she was going on a date with Kara. It still felt almost like a dream she'd wake up from.
human
When they reached the shelter, and the glass entrance and foyer, showing the waiting room, a light Hispanic caseworker came out, her name on her ID said Moriah Nevada. "Oh, that's right, it's Saturday. I forgot, and usually I'm not here on the weekend, Charles called in sick. Let me get those, the residents will be extremely grateful... Well most of them." She then nodded to Kara. "Hardly newsworthy, Ms. Kent!" She teased with a twinkle in her eyes, although she and Kara usually ran into each other as their shifts ended Monday thru Thursday at around the same time. Moriah was probably the best case manager the shelter had, since she would jump in to fill a shift for staff. "Don't let her pull that dumb country hick on you, Jess, she's a lot smarter than she puts on to be."
Kara blushed."I use this place to navigate, and it's my landmark to the bus terminal. Six blocks that way on this street. City Hall's right across the street from it. So, remember, 5, 13 and 69 to the mall bus station. Actually the 13 doesn't even come in the West Side Shopping Mall anymore, its stop is now on the street and you have to walk in to where the 77 pulls in. Dunno why, a lot of people get off to catch the crosstown routes or the 77 which is just the west side."A shrug."Until tomorrow, then, see you at the mall, eleven am."She then gave Jessica a gentle kiss (because it lasted longer than just a peck) on her cheek and walked down the street, deeper into downtown. Moriah gave Jess a wink and smile, before going in to put the donuts and pastries left over in the large sitting area where the residents usually went to watch the news. Well, at least at THIS hour.
gpt
As the woman from the Shelter came to greet the pair, Jessica couldn't help but wonder if there was anyone in town that Kara didn't know. Though she hadn't grown up there, she seemed to be very well acquainted with just about everyone that the Baker had come across. She could only guess it was due to her job which constantly kept her on the move and likely the fact that she was just about the nicest person she'd ever met.. Though perhaps she was a little biased on the matter considering how she was crushing over the reporter. "No need to worry Moriah, I know there's more than meets the eye here. She can't fool me, I see the real Kara hiding behind those glasses." She teased, unaware of just how wrong she was.
A cute little laugh escaped her lips as Kara went on a small rant about the buses and how she used certain landmarks to guide herself. She seemed to be full of little quirks such as that one which the baker found simply adorable. Just as Jessica was about to reply however, her words were silenced before they could leave her lips, as Kara's lips pressed against her cheek, lingering for a moment, causing the shy baker to turn a deep shade of red. With a clear blush on her face as Moriah winked at her, she stuttered, managing a reply. "R-Right. Tomorrow 11am. It's a d-date."
All Jessica wanted to do was rush home and jump around excitedly in her room but she couldn't do that yet, she was in public. Her hand moved to her cheek where Kara had kissed her, still blushing. She did eventually snap out of it however and called out to Moriah. "Right well, I've um got to head home. I'll see you around! Have a nice weekend!" And with that, she was gone.
human
Next morning
One thing Kara had been so careful about, ever since she had learned the truth about herself, and the rocket that brought her to Smallville, Kansas as a baby, was keeping her double identity a secret. But something about Jessica seemed to make her want to throw it all out the window. She would never admit to the crush on Lois nowadays, but thanks to a sleepover one Christmas, some eggnog, and a simple truth or dare question from Lana Lang (NPC) not to mention the eggnog really hitting her.... Well, at least only Lana found out, about both Kara's crush on her and Kara's secret identity, thanks to her dare of Kara spending "Seven Minutes of Heaven" with her as said dare... Kara stopped the memory, shook her head, blushed and bit her lower lip, almost too hard, just like how she and Lana had almost gone all the way that night just before Christmas... Although Lana had promised to keep Kara's secret, Kara still felt extremely guilty about it, swearing to never get that close to an earth girl again.... Yet here she was, falling hard for the simple baker in Metropolis. Just like she had fallen for Lana all those years ago. "Pull it together, Kara. Last thing you need is yet another girl learning your secret. Yet... I can't help the way I feel... I know from experience that with this steel belted radial of a hymen, only a female could get in there to get me off, but getting close to her in that way.... Intimately... I'd put her at risk all the time. Look what happened with Lana? You really want to repeat that?" A sigh escaped her lips. "Even if we never did go all the way, I felt truly like an earth girl when Lana and I dated. Jessica is just like Lana in so many ways. Well, except, Jessica is a far better cook!" She chuckled. "Being Lana's girlfriend was always an adventure since she burned everything! Including fried ice cream!"
As far as she knew, Lana Lang was still in Smallville. At least her parents finally banned her from the kitchen... But as she prepared for her date with Jessica, she was starting to wonder 'what if?' possibly awaking something like the feelings she got from Jessica. With a wistful, far away look, she went out to catch the 66 going west instead of east towards town. The time was ten thirty.
Unbeknownst to both, Lana was flying her single engine private plane to the airport near the very park Kara and Jessica would be going to, arriving just about the time the two would be arriving at the park's entrance (and 77 bus stop) in a little over an hour. In fact, the two should see Lana's plane landing on the runway that bordered the entrance, running parallel to it about two hundred yards away.
gpt
Jessica's mind was racing before bed. She'd managed to spend some time with mum, the pair watching a movie together before they both headed off to bed, though not before her mother teased her about the date a little, knowing the nervous mess the baker could be at times. Of course, as usual, Mrs Hawthorn was not wrong. It was for this exact reason that the excited girl took far longer than usual to fall asleep, checking, double-checking and even triple-checking the details for the following day, what she would wear, the transport, meeting place and time. Yes. Everything was in order but by the time it was, she was exhausted, forgetting to set the alarm and falling fast asleep.
Yawning, Jessica moved, hearing something."Jessica, Jess! Get up! You're going to be late to your date!"The baker jumped up from her bed suddenly, almost crashing into her mother who'd seen the time and rushed over to wake her up, thinking she would have already been out of the door by then. The baker saw the time and blurted out a mixture of curses to herself before thanking her mother. "Mum!" She hugged her. "Thank you, thank you, thank you. I've got to get ready. I've... I can't be late!" She rushed into the bathroom, fortunately having left her clothes ready for the day. Sacrifices would have to be made in the preparation process but she couldn't have Kara think she'd been stood up.
Through what could only be described as a miracle, Jessica had managed to get her hair done in record time, she was showered and dressed and ready to go. Unfortunately, she wouldn't be arriving with as much time as she'd planned of course, usually preferring to leave early to account for any transport delays. She checked the timings to take the first bus available, deciding on the 69 based on Kara's recommendations. In fact, it wasn't until she was rushing on the way to the stop that she remembered Kara's inability to contain her laughter regarding the route number. Having rushed to the stop, Jessica managed to make it there just as the bus was letting the last person on, waving frantically for the driver to wait and, in yet another miraculous act, succeeding. The baker dropped onto a seat, catching her breath, sighing in relief. Everything was alright now. She would make it on time.
Once the bus arrived at the mall, she swapped over to the 77, having just a couple minutes to spare between buses. It wasn't as full as she would have expected, actually managing to find a seat yet again, near the front this time, hoping to rush off once it arrived, eager to see her date. Fortunately it wasn't a long bus ride either, the park soon within her view as the bus neared it.
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Kara kept watching all the buses that came in. There were two 5s before the 69... Which came in just after the 77. Kara got on the bus and made her way back almost all the way and buried her face in her paper. The Sunday Daily Planet was easily three times the size of the other ad filled one that came out on Wednesday. She just caught sight of the 69, but didn't see Jess as she got engrossed on coupon clipping... Well, sort of coupon clipping. She only separated the coupons she wanted from the others. There were ten bus stops between the Mall and Sunset Park Main Entrance, and kept looking at her paper instead of seeing if Jessica had made it.
Whereas Jessica would be near the front and that exit, Kara would come out the back exit. Which meant, Jessica would have been off the bus mere seconds before Kara! Just as Kara would fold and bag her paper and wave at Jessica, going in for a hug, Lana's single engine white plane with a blue stripe would breeze overhead to land at the adjacent small airport (mostly for small planes) and make it's perfect landing carrying it's lone passenger and pilot. "Some rich out of towner coming to check the park out, too. People are starting to come from all over to spend a day at Metropolis' newest park. Usually flying in to that airport since it's like literally next door. If a few hundred yards is next door, here. It would be in Smallville." She offered an arm and smile. "Let's go find a good place to relax and enjoy each other's company for the day!"
Although Lana Lang was well to do, she would probably thump Kara for saying rich. She would only be rich by Smallville standards. That meeting would be only a few hours away, because Sunset Park was EXACTLY where she was going since Kara had mentioned it in a letter; neither expecting the other to be there... And definitely not expecting Kara to be on a date!
gpt
As the bus finally pulled over just a couple of minutes before 11, Jessica rushed out. Fortunately she had been at the front and it didn't take much waiting, looking around to finally find Kara leaving the exact same bus. Her face lit up as she laid eyes on her date, a smile instantly forming as the girl quickly came in for a hug, which the baker of course returned as the noise of a plane thundered not far above them. She wasn't sure whose idea it had been to allow for the park and airport to be so close but it didn't seem practical at all. How were people supposed to relax in the park with such a noice above them?
"Yeah, I really don't know who had that bright idea but I guess it is what it is. Hopefully there aren't too many of those buzzing around." Jess replied, taking Kara's arm with a soft blush. She nodded. "Mhm. That sounds great to me, I've been looking forward to that. No bakery madness, no Lois, just you and me this time, for real." She let out a pleasant sigh, happy to have a real date with Kara as they walked arm in arm. "I have to confess, I almost didn't make it on time. I ended up falling asleep last night and didn't put my alarm on. I'm such a disaster." She laughed. "If it wasn't for my mother who knows what time I'd have arrived."
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Kara shrugged. "At least it's only small private planes and not those commercial airliners." She looked up as if thinking about something. "Airport has been here. The city did need more green spaces and surely doesn't need any more strip malls." A glance to her date for the day. "Maybe that's why they're so close. If you're coming in on a small plane, which would you rather see? A nice park next door, or a high priced outlet store, and other eyesores?" She was letting her small town values and thinking show a little.
As Jessica talked about how she almost didn't make it on time, Kara laughed in spite of herself. "I almost missed my 10:30 bus because I was too busy waxing nostalgic about Smallville. You wouldn't have been the only one late for the date!" She wrapped her hand around Jessica's as they reached the trailhead of a wooded path that actually was the long way around to the picnic grounds. "Feel adventurous?" Kara asked with a coy look, facing Jessica and putting a hand gently around her waist. "We can take the scenic route!" She didn't pay attention to the sign that said it was 2.5 miles to the picnic area that way through a curvy path that also undulated, before climbing the hill to the overlook facing west.
If Jessica took the scenic route, there would be far more chances to get pictures of the local wildlife, both flora and fauna, maybe even see an American red fox. Just in case, Kara quickly got her camera out with her free hand.
gpt
She did have a point. Since it was private jets or smaller planes, they were somewhat less frequent and a lot less noisy, so it wasn't as much of a nuisance as larger aircrafts might have been. Still, though Jessica understood her reasoning, she couldn't help but think that perhaps it had been built by the airport precisely with the intention of attracting such people to the park. It wasn't that the baker had any issues with the upper society, she just never quite knew how to speak to people like that. "I guess you're right. The park is a much nicer view than a building. There's plenty of malls around and not enough parks."
There was a brief look of relief on the redhead's face as Kara mentioned almost being late for the date too. She'd felt bad for almost not making on time and it felt nice to know at least she wasn't alone. "It seems like we're both a bit of a mess." She laughed as they reached the wooded path and Kara left the choice to her, hands together, a soft blush on her face as she then felt the Kara's hand on her waist. "Oh." She blushed a little deeper. "I definitely feel adventurous. Nothing sounds quite as fun as an adventure with you." She replied a little shyly while the reporter took out her camera.
"I see someone came prepared. A reporter through and through hm?" She teased, giving Kara's hand a slight squeeze.