Archive of Our Own ^beta

Lena wasn’t sure why she was here, in a classroom, surrounded by 7 and 8 year olds. She had somehow managed to convince herself that teaching would be a good break from the corporate world, but she was beginning to regret that. How the hell was she going to teach children?

Well, whatever. It was only for a few weeks. She would just have to deal. There was always one student who caught her eye, Amelia Edge. She was adorable, there was no doubt about that. But she was considerably smaller and more reserved than the rest of her class, never really talking unless it’s necessary.

Lena noticed the subtle bruises at first, her worry only growing as they became more prominent. Someone was clearly hurting this poor girl, and it had to stop. She knew her father, Morgan Edge. He was an ass known for his violence, and that knowledge left a sinking feeling in Lena’s gut every time she looked at that little girl. As she watched Amelia swing alone at recess, she decided to try and talk to her. See if she could get some information out of her.

Lena approached Amelia during recess, smiling warmly. Amelia was sitting alone, swinging slowly on the swings. "Hey there, Amelia," Lena said softly. "Mind if I join you for a bit?"

Amelia just shrugs, continuing to absentmindedly swing as Lena sat beside her.

Lena settled onto the swing next to Amelia, pushing herself gently back and forth. They swung in silence for a moment before Lena spoke again. "It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"

Amelia nodded silently, still staring ahead. Lena felt a pang of sympathy for the girl. She had a feeling that there was more going on in Amelia's life than met the eye.

"You know, Amelia, I've noticed that you're always by yourself during recess," Lena said carefully. "Do you not have any friends to play with?"

“No, not really.” She says with a shrug.

Lena nodded, understanding. "Is there a reason why?"

Lena felt like she already knew the answer, but she wanted to give Amelia the space to open up without feeling pressured.

“I dunno. I don’t like talking to them. They think I’m weird.” Amelia mumbles, still rocking herself back and forth on the swing.

"Why do they think you're weird?" Lena asked gently.

She had a feeling that Amelia was dealing with something deeper than just being shy or introverted. The bruises on her body were a stark reminder of something more sinister going on.

“They said I talk about comics too much.” She says, swinging her little legs and wrinkling her nose. “I just really like superheroes.”

Lena couldn't help but smile a little at that. "Well, I think superheroes are pretty cool too. Who's your favorite?" she asked with a friendly smile.

She was glad to see Amelia opening up a bit, even though she suspected that there was more to it than just her love for comic books.

“Supergirl ‘cause she’s here in real life!” She says, a bit of enthusiasm creeping into her tone.

Lena chuckled softly. "Supergirl is pretty cool, yeah."

Lena noticed a bruise on Amelia's arm, in the shape of a hand. Her smile faltered for a moment, but she quickly schooled her facial expression back into a warm smile.

“I like watching her on the news. I think she’s awesome.” Amelia says with a slight smile.

"She's pretty amazing, isn't she?" Lena said, still smiling warmly.

She took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure. She had a suspicion that the bruise on Amelia's arm hadn't been caused by a normal childhood accident.

“I wish I could talk to her. She’s super cool.” She says, still swinging.

"I know what you mean," Lena replied, pushing herself back and forth on the swing.

She kept her tone light, but her mind was racing. She had a feeling that Amelia was being abused by someone - perhaps even her parents. Those bruises on her body couldn't be explained away as accidental.

“My dad says that we shouldn’t have aliens on Earth. But I think we should. They help us lots.” Amelia says with a slight frown.

Lena tried her best to keep her tone neutral. The mention of Amelia's dad made her mind immediately jump to abuse as the cause of the bruises.

"Well, it's important to think about both sides of an issue," she said carefully. "Sometimes having aliens around can bring up some challenges. But you're right, they can definitely help us too. And Supergirl is a good example of an alien who's using her powers to do good."

Amelia nods, still swinging mindlessly.

Lena decided to push her luck a bit to see if she could get more info.

“So your dad doesn't like aliens? Is there a reason why?" she asked casually.

“I dunno. Something about how they’re saving people so his projects aren’t used as much.” She says with a shrug. “I think it’s stupid ‘cause we want everyone to be safe but he wants money so he’d rather people be unsafe.”

Lena's suspicions were confirmed by Amelia's nonchalant answer. The mention of projects made her wonder if Amelia's dad works with weapons. It would certainly explain the bruises, and his dislike of aliens rescuing people.

Lena forced herself to keep a calm expression, even though anger was boiling inside her. She wanted to help this girl, but she knew she needed to proceed carefully.

“Who’s your dad?” She asks casually. She knew most of the technology businessmen, considering she literally runs L-Corp.

“His name’s Morgan.” Amelia says.

Lena's heart skipped a beat as she heard the name.

Morgan Edge. One of the most well-known businessmen.

Unfortunately, Edge had a reputation for being cruel and ruthless.

Lena couldn't shake off the feeling that Amelia was living in an abusive household. The bruises on her body, Edge's dislike for aliens, it all pointed to something sinister.

Lena tried to keep her voice steady.

“Edge?” she repeated, as if she had heard wrong.

She had heard of Edge before, but hearing his name in connection with this little girl was almost too much to bear. She was torn between confronting Amelia and asking her more directly, or keeping the conversation light.

When Amelia nodded, her heart sank. But she decided to tread carefully.

“Is your mom around much?” she asked, watching Amelia’s reaction closely.

She shrugs. “Not really.”

Lena's fear deepened. The lack of mention of a mother figure made her wonder if something had happened to her, or if Edge was the one responsible for the bruises.

Amelia's non-committal answer gave little insight into the situation.

“What does your mom do?” Lena asked, trying to keep the conversation light. She hoped that she wouldn't reveal how much she was concerned for Amelia, and how angry she was getting at Edge.

“Nothing. She spends a lot of time just hosting parties and leaving with friends. Daddy’s always busy too. I’m usually with the maids or by myself.” She says casually.

Lena's expression tightened. The image of this little girl spending her days alone with the maids while her parents prioritized their own social lives made her blood boil.

She had to do something, but she needed more information first. She tried to keep her tone warm and friendly, even though on the inside she was seething with anger.

“It sounds like you’re pretty independent,” she commented. "That’s a good thing, being able to entertain yourself.”

“I guess. I have lots of comic books I read. Daddy buys me lots after he makes me upset.”

Lena's heart sank further. The fact that Edge bought Amelia gifts after upsetting her was a big red flag. It seemed like he was attempting to buy her forgiveness.

Lena wanted to ask more questions about the bruises, but she had to be careful. She couldn't let Amelia feel like she was being questioned or interrogated.

She decided to continue speaking casually, as if they were talking about nothing more serious than the weather.

“That’s nice,” she said with a smile, trying to maintain a facade of casualness. "I love reading comics too – they're often more realistic than people think, right?"

She tried to keep the conversation light, but her mind was racing. The connection between Amelia's bruises and Edge's behavior was becoming increasingly clear to her.

She nods, her eyes widening as she looks over at Lena. “You read comics? But you’re old and like, super smart. Daddy says it’s for kids, and I should stop soon.”

Lena couldn't help but chuckle softly at that. "Well, first of all, I'm not that old," she said with a teasing smile.

But her smile quickly faded as she processed Amelia’s words. Her father, Edge, had apparently been telling her that comics were just for kids and that she should stop soon. That was yet another red flag, and it made Lena worry even more.

“How old are you?” Amelia asks, tilting her head slightly.

Lena softened a bit, seeing the childlike innocence in Amelia's question.

“I'm 25," she replied, keeping her tone light. "Is that old to you?"

She nods. “Very old. What do you do? Besides, be a substitute of course. I’ve heard this job does not pay much, and you have pretty clothes, so.”

Lena forced a laugh, not wanting to reveal the turmoil brewing inside her.

“Well, as I said, I love reading comics," she said, playing along with Amelia's childish banter. "But I also run a company. I'm the CEO of L-Corp, a tech company that focuses a lot on research and development."

She blinks. “Oh. So why are you here?”

"I just like teaching," she said with a shrug, trying to sound nonchalant. "It's a nice change of pace from being in the office all the time."

“Oh, that’s cool. I’m 6 by the way, in case you were wondering. Everyone else is 7 or 8.” Amelia says.

Lena smiled, her heart swelling a bit at how eager Amelia was to share. She couldn't believe this innocent little girl was being hurt by her father.

"6 years old. That means you're pretty smart," she said, keeping her tone warm and encouraging. "You know, I met Supergirl once. She was actually really young too, when she started using her powers for good."

Her eyes widened. “You met Supergirl?”

Lena nodded, her eyes twinkling with genuine warmth. "Yes, I did. And she's as nice in real life as she is on television."

She tried to keep the conversation about Supergirl light and carefree, without letting on how worried she was about the bruises she had seen on the little girl's body.

“That’s so cool.” Amelia says, her voice full of wonder.

Lena couldn't help but smile, her heart melting at the genuine admiration in Amelia's voice. She wanted to take the girl away from her father, to keep her safe and make sure she could see heroes like Supergirl every day.

“It is cool,” she agreed, her voice tinged with a hint of longing.

She felt like she was balancing on a tightrope, trying to keep up the lighthearted facade without revealing the depth of her concern.

“Are you friends with her?” She asks, swinging her legs so she swings again.

Lena leaned back a bit, pretending to think for a moment.

"Hmm," she said, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "I wouldn't necessarily say we're friends. We've only met a couple of times. She's pretty busy, saving the world and all that!"

Amelia nods. “Yeah. I don’t know how she has time to even have a secret identity. Imagine trying to go to work and you have to go fight an alien in the middle! Then she’d get caught. She’s very smart.”

Lena listened intently to Amelia's rambling, struck by the innocent admiration in her voice. She was so young to be thinking about the logistics of a superhero's job, yet here she was.

"You know, you're absolutely right. It must be hard for her to lead a normal life, knowing she could have to drop everything to save someone at any moment," Lena said, matching Amelia's wide-eyed tone.

A moment of silence passed between them as they both continued swinging.

Lena desperately wanted to find a way to help Amelia, but she knew she couldn’t force the issue without risking making things worse.

She racked her brain for possible options, when suddenly the bell rang, signaling the end of recess.

The sudden end of recess broke the trance they had both been in, and Lena felt a pang of regret at leaving the conversation unfinished.

"Alright, it looks like recess is over," she said, forcing a cheerful tone. "We should probably head back to class."

She nods, pushing herself off the swing. “How much longer are you here for?”

Lena hesitated for a moment, unsure whether to give a honest answer or a vague one. She ultimately decided to go with the former.

"I'm supposed to be here for another month or so," she said, her mind racing. She wondered how she could possibly make things right in such a short amount of time.

“Why do you ask?"

Amelia shrugs. “I dunno. I like you.”

Lena's heart swelled with both sadness and endearment. Here was this tiny six-year-old girl, who was clearly lacking love and attention at home, seeking affection and care from a complete stranger.

"Well," she said, trying to keep her emotions in check, "I like you too, Amelia."

“Good. Now, you have to go teach and I have to go listen so let’s go.”

Lena chuckled softly, her heart feeling both heavy and full at Amelia's insistence.

"Sounds like a plan," she replied, standing up and stretching a bit. "Let's head back in."

As they walked back into the school, Lena made a silent promise to herself to do everything in her power to make sure Amelia was safe.

The rest of the day passed in a blur as Lena immersed herself in teaching. As the school day ended, she found herself reflecting on her interactions with Amelia.

She couldn't shake off the feeling that there was something off about the little girl's family life. Her bruised body and stories about her parents' neglect had ignited a sense of protectiveness within Lena, but she knew she needed to tread carefully.

As she packed up her things and prepared to head home, she made a decision. She would start by doing some research into Amelia's family, finding out more about her father and the circumstances at home.

As she locked up the classroom and made her way to her car, her mind was racing, consumed by a mix of worry and determination to make a difference in Amelia's life.

Once she was settled in her car, Lena pulled out her phone and dialed Jess' number.

"Jess, I need you to dig up everything you can on one Morgan Edge," she said firmly.

On the other end, Jess' surprise was evident in her voice. "Excuse me? Mr. Edge, the CEO?"

Lena confirmed, her tone serious. "Yes, him. I need every detail you can find on him, his family, his company. Everything."

Jess was taken aback but quickly gathered her wit. "Understood, Ms. Luthor. I'll have a report within the hour."

As Lena drove home, her mind swirling with questions about Morgan Edge and Amelia. She hoped that the information Jess would provide would shed some light on the situation. With her heart pounding, she vowed to take action no matter what she would find.

The next day Lena entered the classroom earlier than usual, her eyes filled with determination. She had spent the previous night pouring over the information Jess had dug up on Morgan Edge and his family. The reports were disturbing, to say the least. There were numerous incidents of domestic violence, including bruises and injuries that were consistent with Amelia’s. Edge’s company had also been accused of various unethical practices, including animal abuse and financial fraud. There was no doubt in Luthor’s mind that Morgan Edge was a dangerous man.

Amelia entered the classroom at a normal time, her arm wrapped in a thick, pink cast. She stood on her tippy toes, hanging her backpack on the hook and going to sit at her desk.

Lena immediately noticed the cast on Amelia's arm, her heart rate quickening. She knew the bruises on Amelia’s body were bad enough, but now a broken bone too? This was getting out of hand.

As the rest of the students came in and took their seats, Lena tried her best to act normal. She greeted the class and began teaching the day’s curriculum.

Throughout the class, her eyes kept wandering towards Amelia, taking in the girl's every move and expression. She noticed how she winced slightly every time she put the slightest pressure on her arm. It was more than clear to Lena that something needed to be done, and soon.

Finally, after an agonizingly long class, the bell rang, signaling lunch. The students quickly vacated their desks and filed out into the hallway, leaving Lena alone with Amelia, who was slowly packing up her things.

Once the classroom was empty, Lena approached Amelia's desk, her expression full of concern.

"Amelia, can I talk to you for a minute?" she asked gently.

Amelia looked up at Lena, brow furrowed. “Sorry. I know I’m taking a long time. This dumb cast.” She says with a slight frown.

Lena forced a smile, trying to keep the girl at ease. "It's okay, take your time," she said softly. She sat down across from Amelia, her tone turning serious. "I wanted to ask about your arm. How did you break it?"

“I tripped.” She says, zipping up her pencil case.

Lena raised an eyebrow, skeptical of the explanation, but decided to tread lightly for the moment.

"Tripped, huh?" she said, keeping her voice light. "That must have been a pretty nasty fall. Are you feeling okay? Is it hurting?"

“A little bit.” Amelia says with a shrug. “Daddy said not to complain though, so don’t worry about me. It doesn’t hurt that bad.”

Lena's heart sank a bit at Amelia's response. It was difficult to hear that her father had taught her not to complain about pain.

"Even if it doesn't hurt too much, it's important to take care of yourself," she said. "And it's okay to seek help when you need it. How did your father react when you got hurt?"

“I think he was mad that he had to stop working to take me to the hospital. He was mad before too. He’s mad a lot.” She says, putting some stuff in her bag.

Lena nodded, trying to keep a neutral expression. It was clear that Morgan Edge had a volatile temper, and that didn't bode well for anyone living with him.

"Amelia, I need to ask you something, and I want you to be honest with me," Lena said, her voice steady. "Is your father ever violent towards you at home?"

“Huh?”

Lena sighed, knowing this topic was difficult for a child. "Does your father ever hit you or hurt you physically when he's mad?" she asked gently.

“Sometimes. But he said it’s to teach me.”

Lena's heart sank even further at Amelia's words. "It's never okay for someone to hurt you, Amelia. No matter their intention or justification," she said firmly.

She knew that child protective services needed to be involved as soon as possible, but she also knew that would create challenges for Amelia.

After a moment of contemplation, Lena took a deep breath. "Amelia, I think it's time to involve someone who can help us make sure you're safe. There are people who can offer assistance and protection for kids who are in situations like yours."

“I don’t want him to be mad at me.” Amelia says quietly, her eyes downcast.

Lena reached out and placed a comforting hand on Amelia's shoulder. "I understand that you're afraid of making him angry, but your safety is more important," she said softly. "He doesn't have the right to hurt you, no matter how angry he gets."

"Now, I'm going to make a call and bring in experts who can help us understand what's going on and find ways to keep you safe. It might be a scary process, but you don't have to face this alone. We're here to help," Lena reassured, her voice filled with determination.

As Amelia's eyes filled with a mixture of fear and hope, Lena made the call to child protective services, preparing to navigate the complex path ahead to ensure the little girl's well-being was no longer threatened by her own family.

The conversation with child protective services was extensive and filled with details about Amelia's situation. They discussed the evidence of abuse, including physical injury and neglect, and the need for immediate intervention. Lena's goal was to ensure Amelia would be placed in a safe environment away from her father's reach.

After some discussion, it was decided that emergency protective custody would be granted until the situation could be thoroughly investigated. The process was complicated by Morgan Edge's influence, but the severity of the situation warranted a swift response.

With the process for CPS in motion, Lena returned her focus to Amelia, offering as much comfort and support as she could. She knew the journey ahead wouldn’t be easy, but she was determined to do everything in her power to ensure the little girl's safety.

As the school day continued, Lena remained attentive to Amelia's needs, discreetly keeping a watchful eye on her and monitoring any changes in her behavior. She kept her phone close, hoping for updates from CPS as quickly as possible.

Throughout the rest of the week, Lena stayed in regular communication with CPS, giving status updates and providing whatever additional information they requested. She continued to keep a watchful eye on Amelia, monitoring her at school while making sure not to draw the attention of her father.

By Friday, Lena received the news that CPS had completed their initial investigation and determined that Amelia’s safety was at risk in her current living situation. They would be proceeding with removing her from her father’s custody and placing her in a temporary foster care arrangement while they worked to find a more permanent solution.

Despite the positive news of Amelia's temporary removal from her dangerous home situation, Lena braced herself for the difficult conversation with her. She knew she needed to explain the situation to Amelia gently and in a way she could understand, while also ensuring she felt secure and supported during this time.

After the final bell rang on Friday, Lena waited until most of the other students had scattered before approaching Amelia. She took a deep breath, knowing this conversation would be crucial in shaping how Amelia would feel about the coming changes.

"Amelia," Lena began gently, crouching down to her level, "I have some news to share with you." She took another breath, choosing her words carefully. "CPS has finished their investigation, and they've decided that it's best for you to stay somewhere else for a while, away from your father. This will help keep you safe until we can find you a permanent home."

"What? Stay with who?" Amelia asks, playing with her backpack string.

Lena gave a reassuring smile. "You'll be staying with a foster family. They're nice people who want to make sure you're safe and happy. It's like having another family to take care of you for a while," she explained, trying to make the concept as comforting as possible.

"What? I don't want to go stay with a stranger." Amelia says, anxiety filling her.

"I know it might feel scary and strange," Lena said, her voice empathetic. "But these foster families are trained to care for children in situations like yours. They'll make sure you're safe and have everything you need, including yummy food, a cozy bed, and lots of love."

“Why can’t you take me? I don’t want to go with strangers.” She says, crossing her arms.

Lena hesitated, taken aback by the unexpected request. She felt a pang of guilt as she realized that Amelia had come to trust her and rely on her presence in her life.

"Amelia," Lena said gently, "it's not that simple. I'm not a trained foster parent. The system has specific requirements and processes to make sure all kids are safe and well-cared for."

"I promise," Lena continued, "that the foster family assigned to you will care for you, love you, and do everything they can to make you feel safe and happy. They are professionals who are trained to support kids going through difficult situations, and they'll be there for you every step of the way."

“Will you visit me?” Amelia asks, her voice smaller than ever.

Lena's heart shattered at the innocence of the question. She fought back tears, knowing how attached Amelia had become to her.

"Of course, I will," she promised, her voice gentle. "I'll come visit you as often as I can. And we can talk on the phone and write letters too. I'm not going anywhere, I promise."

"I'll always be here for you," she added, her gaze meeting Amelia's, trying to convey her unwavering support.

As tears welled up in Amelia's eyes, Lena reached out and gently brushed them away, her touch a silent affirmation that she would do everything in her power to be there for the little girl, even if the situation had taken a turn neither of them was prepared for.

“Can I bring my comic books? And my stuffed animals?” She asks with a sniffle.

Lena nodded, offering a comforting smile. "Absolutely, sweetie. Bring your comic books and your favorite stuffed animals. The foster family will make sure you have everything you need and plenty of room for your favorite things."

"And remember," she added, crouching down to meet Amelia's gaze, "I'll always be a phone call or letter away. You can tell me all about the new family, your room, your friends, anything you want. I'll always want to hear about your adventures, no matter where you are."

Amelia nods, looking the most scared Lena has ever seen any kid.

Lena reached out and gave Amelia's hand a reassuring squeeze. "You'll do great, okay?" she assures, her voice filled with optimism. "You're stronger than you know. This is just a stop along the way to finding your forever home and your happiness. And I'll be here every step of the way."

About a week goes by, and Amelia had been placed in her foster home. They’d said that she was decently scared of the woman’s husband, and extremely quiet. She never said more than a few words to everyone in the house, mostly reading and playing with toys. And Lena was finally cleared to visit her today, so that’s where she was going.

Lena arrived at Amelia's foster home, a little flutter of nerves in her stomach as she approached the door. She rang the doorbell and waited for someone to answer, hoping that Amelia was feeling a bit better and that the new environment was treating her well.

After a moment, the door was opened by a middle-aged woman who smiled warmly at Lena. "Hello there! You must be Lena. Please come in," she said, ushering her inside. "Amelia's been looking forward to your visit today."

Lena entered the home and was immediately struck by the comforting scent of freshly baked cookies and the sound of children's laughter from a nearby room. She felt a faint sense of relief knowing that Amelia might be fitting in more than she had thought.

"She's probably in her room," the woman, Susan, explained as she led Lena to a cozy living room. "She's been very quiet so far. Is that normal for her?"

"She's always been a bit shy," Lena replied, sitting down on the couch. "But she warms up to people she feels safe with." She took a deep breath, hoping there weren't any major concerns. "How has she been doing here? Has she been adjusting well?"

Susan took a seat across from Lena, a slight frown on her face. "Well, like I mentioned, she's been really quiet. We've tried to engage her, but she just retreats back into her shell. And whenever my husband tries to talk to her, she becomes visibly nervous. We're not exactly sure what to make of it."

Lena nodded, her expression becoming serious. "That's concerning. Amelia has had a difficult past. Her father was abusive, and that might explain her fear towards men. She may need some time and patience to acclimate and feel comfortable."

"My husband is a kind man," Susan said, a hint of defensiveness in her tone. "He's never been anything but gentle towards children. He's a teacher, for heaven's sake."

Lena held up her hands in appeasement. "I understand that," she reassured. "I'm not saying your husband has done anything to warrant this response. It's likely due to Amelia's past experiences. She's probably just cautious around men because of her previous trauma."

"She hasn't lashed out or anything like that," Susan said with a sigh. "She just clams up whenever he's around. It's like she's frozen in fear. He's not sure what to do to help ease her worries either."

"That's understandable given her history," Lena replied, considering the situation. "It might be beneficial to have him give her some space and let her approach him on her own terms. Pushing her could potentially make her more uncomfortable. Patience and understanding will be key in earning her trust."

Susan seemed to relax slightly, nodding in agreement. "You're right. We want her to feel comfortable here, and we'll do our best to understand her needs. It's just hard to see her so withdrawn."

"I get it," Lena said, understanding the foster parent's concern. "It takes time for wounds like this to heal and for trust to be rebuilt. With care and patience, I believe she'll find her footing here and open up to you. It might just take some time."

Just then, a commotion from the other room drew both their attention. They turned to see the other foster children, a boy and girl around Amelia's age, rushing into the room, closely trailed by their father. He seemed oblivious to the tension in the air.

"What's going on here?" the man, Mr. Thompson, asked with a smile on his face. He was a tall, burly man with a friendly demeanor. The children laughed and chatted as they ran around the room, seemingly unfazed by the serious conversation that had preceded their arrival.

"Oh, we were just discussing how Amelia's been settling in," Susan explained, her voice calm as she glanced back at Lena, who remained seated on the couch. The children continued to play gleefully, the sound of their laughter filling the room.

Mr. Thompson's smile faded slightly. "Ah, yes, I've noticed she's been pretty quiet. But she'll come around, I'm sure," he said, trying to sound reassuring.

Lena couldn't help but notice how Amelia was nowhere to be seen. She could only assume the little girl was hiding somewhere, avoiding the man's presence. The contrast between the children's laughter and the ongoing conversation created an uneasy atmosphere.

"She's been spending a lot of time in her room," Susan offered, casting a glance towards the hallway that led off to the children's rooms. "We try not to push her too much, but we're concerned that she's isolating herself."

Lena gave a small nod, her mind racing. She needed to find Amelia. "Is it alright if I go check on her? Maybe she'd feel more comfortable talking to me one-on-one."

Susan nodded. "Of course. Her room is the last one on the right," she said, pointing down the hallway. "We'll keep the children entertained in here for a bit." With a nod and a quick goodbye, Lena excused herself and made her way to the hallway leading to the children's rooms.

Lena approached the door, hesitant. She didn't want to bother her, but she wanted to see her. Finally, she raised her fist and knocked on the door.

Before she could even acknowledge what was happening, she heard little footsteps and then the door flung open, and Amelia was hugging her. Well, her legs.

Lena looked down, surprise flickering across her face as she found Amelia clinging to her legs, hugging tightly. "Hey, there." She crouched down and gently pried the little girl off her legs and gathered her into her arms, holding her close.

“What took you so long?” Amelia asks, her voice muffled by Lena's shirt.

Lena offered a soft smile, stroking Amelia's hair gently. "I'm sorry it took a bit longer than I had hoped, but I'm here now," she replied. "And from now on, you'll get to see me more often. How does that sound?"

“That sounds amazing. I got new comics, wanna see?” Amelia says, a hint of excitement creeping into her tone.

Lena's smile widened at Amelia's excitement. "Of course I do! I want to see everything your new family got for you," she replied, unable to resist the eagerness in the little girl's voice.

She practically drags Lena into her bedroom, which had a massive stack of comic books on the floor. She picked one of them up from the top, running back over to Lena.

Lena pretended to feign shock, gasping as Amelia returned holding one of the comics. "Whoa, what do we have here?" she said, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Let me see that!" She took the comic and inspected it, making exaggerated expressions of interest.

“They got me the new Supergirl one!” Amelia says, practically beaming.

Lena faked disbelief, her eyes widening as she held the comic in her hands. "Oh, no way! The new Supergirl one? That's awesome!" She knew well of Supergirl's heroic deeds, but she couldn't resist playing along. "Do you think you can explain this one to me, sweetie?"

And that set her off. She went on like a twenty minute ramble explaining all of the lore behind the endless web of Supergirl comics, even connecting it to the real-life Supergirl.

Lena listened attentively as Amelia went on and on about the Supergirl comics, her passion overflowing. She was amazed at how much knowledge the little girl had about the superhero, and her excitement was contagious. Seeing the sparkle in her eyes, Lena felt a surge of warmth in her heart.

As Amelia continued to passionately explain the plot of the story, Lena couldn't help but feel touched. "Wow, you know a lot about these comics, don't you?" she said, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You're like a little superhero expert!"

Amelia nods, unable to smother her grin.

Lena noticed Susan watching them slightly from the doorway, an unreadable expression on her face.

She took a moment to glance at her, who was observing from the doorway, her face revealing no obvious emotion. Lena then turned her focus back to Amelia, engrossed in her superhero explanation.

"And what about Supergirl's enemies? Who are her biggest villains?" Lena asked, engaging in the conversation and trying to gauge how deeply engaged Amelia was in this topic. She also kept an eye on Susan, who continued to watch from afar.

Amelia animatedly listed off Supergirl's most formidable adversaries, their names coming to her without hesitation. She spoke of their powers, their origins, and their past conflicts with the Kryptonian hero. It was clear that she had not just read the comics but absorbed their contents with great attention.

"Wow, you really know your stuff," Lena said, impressed, her attention briefly shifting back to Susan. She caught a flicker of what appeared to be irritation or annoyance on Susan's face, though it was quickly masked. As Amelia continued to chatter on, Lena couldn't help but be drawn back into the conversation, intrigued by the depth of knowledge the little girl possessed.

As their conversation continued, Amelia's enthusiasm never wavered. She moved from discussing the storylines of the comics to sharing her favorite artwork and even acting out scenes from specific panels. Lena couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the little girl's creativity and imagination.

Meanwhile, Susan's presence at the doorway continued to linger, though her expression had shifted to a more neutral one. Lena couldn't shake the feeling that there was something beneath the surface, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it. She pushed the thought aside, refocusing her attention on the chatterbox in front of her, whose energy seemed boundless.

As the conversation between them went on, Amelia asked Lena a question that caught her slightly off guard. "If you were a superhero, what powers do you think you'd have?"

Lena took a moment to ponder the question, not expecting to be asked. She smiled thoughtfully. "That's a tough one. I think maybe super-intellect? To help solve problems no one else could. Plus, having access to all the knowledge in the world would be pretty cool."

She rolls her eyes. “Boring. You already have super-intellect.”

Lena raised an eyebrow, amused by the girl's unimpressed reaction. "Oh really? And what powers would you give me then, Miss Comic Book Expert?" she retorted, playfully challenging Amelia, though her eyes kept flicking to Susan.

“Hmmm..” Amelia paused, genuinely thinking. “I think mind control would be unstoppable. Then you could just make them surrender.”

Lena feigned surprise. "Mind control? Wow, that's a bit extreme, don't you think?" she said, teasing. "I'd hope that if I did have superpowers, I wouldn't use them to make people do things against their will." She chuckled softly, unable to maintain the playful facade completely.

Lena found herself glancing once again at Susan, whose gaze was fixed on the two of them, her expression inscrutable.

“Noo I’d only use it on villains. And maybe on people to get me free ice cream.” Amelia retorts with a grin.

"Hah, of course, you'd use it for free ice cream. You'd be the hero we all need," Lena replied, trying to keep the lighthearted tone, her grin widening.

Wanting to keep the conversation going without escalating any possible tension, Lena decided to switch the topic back to something more neutral. "So, which was your favorite Supergirl comic? I'm curious to hear which one you liked best," she inquired, keeping her tone airy and carefree, matching Amelia's own demeanor.

Amelia's expression lit up, a sparkle in her eyes as she recalled her favorite comic. "I think the one where Supergirl battles Brainiac. It's so cool, she finds this lost city from Krypton, and they fight inside it. And get this, she defeats Brainiac with a super laser made from Kryptonite." She mimicked the superheroic action scenes, using her hands as if they were laser beams, her energy contagious.

Lena watched, genuinely fascinated by Amelia's passion. "Brainiac sounds like a tough opponent. And using Kryptonite as a weapon sounds impressive. Was it hard for her to do? Didn't that affect her as well?" she asked, engaging in the conversation and allowing herself to be swept up in the fantastical world of Supergirl.

Amelia nodded, her expression becoming more serious. "Oh, yeah, that was the big deal. Using Kryptonite against Brainiac risked harming her, too. But she still had to do it to save the city. It was this big internal struggle, right? Like, she had to be strong enough to face her own fears and weaknesses in order to defeat her enemy."

"That sounds incredibly complex," Lena said, her eyebrows raised slightly. "She really had to face her own vulnerabilities to save the day. It's admirable how Supergirl handled such a difficult decision." Despite her attempt at keeping a casual tone, a trace of unease lingered in the back of Lena's mind, fueled by Susan's silent presence in the doorway.

As Amelia continued describing the comic, her enthusiasm remained unwavering. However, Lena's thoughts began to drift back to Susan, still standing in the doorway. The woman's presence seemed to grow more foreboding as the moments passed, and Lena couldn't help but wonder if there was something beneath the surface that she was missing.

She found herself distracted, trying to discern Susan's true intentions while simultaneously engaging with Amelia. Her attempts to concentrate on the little girl's conversation were overshadowed by the nagging feeling of unease. “Pick a random comic, and I want you to really think about who your favorite character is. I’m going to be right back, okay?”

Amelia just nods, racing over to her stack of comics as Lena gets up to talk to Susan.

She approaches Susan, her demeanor shifting from light to serious. "Can we talk for a moment?" she asks, her voice low. "Alone."

Susan raises an eyebrow, surprised by the sudden shift in Lena's tone. She glances at Amelia, who is preoccupied with her comics, before nodding. "Sure, let's talk."

Lena leads them out of the room and closes the door softly, ensuring that Amelia couldn't hear their conversation. She turns to face Susan, lowering her voice even further.

“I'm guessing there’s something you wish to discuss?” Susan asks, her expression cool and composed. Her body language, however, seems to suggest a hint of defensiveness.

Lena takes a deep breath. “I couldn’t help but notice your reaction earlier. Is there something bothering you?” her voice soft yet direct, her eyes searching for a hint of truth in Susan’s expression.

A flicker of surprise flits across Susan's face, her defenses wavering ever so slightly. She sighs, her shoulders sagging slightly. "That obvious?"

Lena nods, maintaining a gentle yet firm tone. "I could hardly ignore it. What's on your mind?"

Susan hesitates for a moment, her gaze drifting off to the side. "Amelia... she just seems so different around you. She talks to you. She... interacts with you," she replies, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and jealousy.

Lena's lips purse slightly at the revelation. "And this upsets you, why?" she queries, struggling to understand the source of Susan's frustration.

Susan's expression hardens. "She doesn't connect with us. No matter what we do, she's always aloof and disconnected. But with you..." Her voice trails off, and she shakes her head, clearly struggling to find the right words to express her feelings.

"Is it a problem that she trusts me?" Lena prods, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her voice. She can't deny the growing suspicion that there's something deeper beneath Susan's words.

Susan's eyes flash with a hint of irritation. "No, of course not. It's just..." She trails off again, her frustration apparent. Lena can sense the tension building between them as Susan struggles to put her concerns into words.

"Just what?" Lena presses gently, her attention fully focused on Susan. She attempts to maintain a neutral stance, hoping to extract the truth from the woman's veiled statements.

Susan's frustration grows, her body tensing up. She lets out an exasperated huff. "Look, I can't help feeling a little resentful, okay? Amelia is our foster daughter, and I want her to feel part of our family. Instead, she shuts us out, and you come along, and suddenly, she's opening up. It doesn't feel fair."

As Susan's resentment lingers in the air, Lena takes a moment to process her words. "You see it as favoritism?” she probes calmly, her voice carrying a hint of disbelief.

"Isn’t it?” Susan retorts, her voice tinged with defensiveness. "You swoop in, and suddenly she’s all chattier and more engaged. How is that not favoring you over us?" The frustration, mixed with a sense of vulnerability, is palpable in Susan's tone. “I don’t know how to raise someone who won’t speak to me. At this rate she’d be better off with you.”

Lena's heart sinks as she discerns the undercurrent of desperation in Susan's words. "So you want me to... take her?" she asks, her voice faltering slightly with surprise and unease. The magnitude of the suggestion hangs heavily in the air between them.

"You clearly have a more profound connection with her," Susan retorts, her voice tinged with both defeat and envy. "She actually talks to you, whereas she barely even acknowledges our existence." The raw honesty in her words is palpable, and Lena can sense the weight of her frustration and disappointment.

A moment of shocked silence hangs in the air as Lena processes Susan's words. The gravity of the situation weighs heavily on her, and she grapples with emotions of surprise and apprehension. "I don't know..." she hesitates, her voice laced with uncertainty. “That’s...”

Her initial disbelief at Susan’s request gradually transforms into a mix of sympathy and contemplation. The thought of taking responsibility for Amelia's well-being both frightens and intrigues her.

Susan's pleading gaze locks with Lena's, the vulnerability in her expression making it difficult for Lena to look away. The depth of Susan's frustration and jealousy is palpable, yet there's also a sense of desperation, born from a place deep within her. Lena can sense the genuine pain in Susan's expression, and it tugs at her heartstrings.

Lena takes a deep breath, her heart still pounding from the unexpected turn the conversation has taken. She steels herself before meeting Susan’s gaze directly. “I... I’ll think about it. Seriously consider it. But... it’s not an easy decision.”

Her words carry a hint of doubt and apprehension, but there’s also an undercurrent of resolve. In her eyes, there’s a flicker of determination.

Susan's eyes widen slightly, her breath catching in her throat. She seems genuinely surprised and hopeful at Lena's response. A mixture of relief and vulnerability washes over her, and for a moment, the walls around her appear to crumble.

"You... you will?" she asks softly, her voice infused with both apprehension and newfound optimism. “I just want the best for her. And she seems happiest around you.”

Lena nods slowly, her gaze meeting Susan's with a measured sincerity. “I’ll think about it,” she repeats, her voice carrying a mix of uncertainty and determination. “But I promise to give your request serious consideration.”

As their eyes remain locked, Lena can sense the depth of emotion swirling within Susan. The initial frustration and resentment have given way to vulnerability and a glimmer of hope, and it’s clear that Lena’s willingness to even contemplate the idea has touched a chord within her.

When Susan speaks next, she says something that shocks Lena. “This is just a thought, but um do you think she might be autistic? I’ve seen it in other foster kids and..” She shrugs.

A flicker of realization crosses Lena's face at Susan's observation. She recalls the conversations she's had with Amelia and reflects on her interactions with her.

“You could be onto something,” Lena muses, her voice tinged with thoughtful curiosity. “The way she interacts, her difficulty in expressing emotions... It’s not impossible.”

As the realization dawns on her, Lena feels a mixture of surprise, concern, and understanding.

Susan nods, a hint of relief visible on her face. “It’s just a thought, but it might explain a lot,” she says quietly. “I’m not trying to push you to take her or anything, but I think she would really do well with someone who can understand her. She doesn’t have anyone who does right now.”

Lena’s heart aches at Susan’s words, and she feels a twinge of guilt mixed with newfound empathy.

Lena sighs, her expression filled with both sympathy and determination. “I understand,” she replies softly, her voice tinged with a mixture of vulnerability and a newfound compassion.

She takes a deep breath, her mind racing with a mix of emotions. Her thoughts dart between the responsibility of potentially taking on Amelia, her own reservations about whether she is capable of fulfilling that role, and the desire to support and provide a nurturing environment for the child.

“Alright,” she says quietly. “I’ll consider it. I’ll think about it seriously.”

A flicker of vulnerability crosses Susan's features as she nods, her expression tinged with a mix of gratitude and apprehension. "Okay," she whispers softly. "Thank you."

Lena catches a glimpse of a deep vulnerability in Susan's eyes, a rare display of her hidden emotions. She can’t help but feel a twinge of empathy and understanding.

The air hangs heavy with unspoken emotions as they stand there, the weight of the conversation looming over them both. Lena can sense the vulnerability and fragility lingering beneath Susan's composed exterior, and it tugs at her heartstrings. In that moment, a quiet understanding passes between them, born from this unexpected exchange.

With a final nod and a promise to keep in touch, Lena quietly bids Susan farewell. As she makes her way back into the room where Amelia is engrossed in her comics, Lena's mind is already spinning with thoughts and emotions swirling within her.

She takes in the sight of Amelia, engrossed in her comic book, and can’t help but feel a flicker of determination mixed with uncertainty. Her mind wanders back to the conversation, the weight of the possibility of becoming Amelia's caregiver...

There's a whirlwind of emotions coursing through Lena – confusion, anxiety, a hint of excitement, but most prominently...

Hope.

Lena takes a moment to collect herself before approaching Amelia. She takes in the girl's focused expression as she pours over the comic pages, and it brings a small smile to her lips. Slowly, she sits down beside Amelia, her voice soft. "Hey, Amelia."

The little girl looks up from her comic, her eyes gleaming with intrigue and innocence. "Yeah?" she replies, her gaze now fixed on Lena.

Lena takes a deep breath, her heart pounding in her chest. "Amelia... I want to tell you something important. Can you put down the comic for a moment?"

Her voice carries a hint of uncertainty, but there's also determination and warmth. Lena can't help but feel a mixture of nerves and anticipation as she prepares to make this pivotal offer.

She nods, carefully closing it and setting it down on her pile which was almost as tall as her. She adjusted it so it was in line with the others, then turned around and looked at Lena expectantly.

Lena smiles at Amelia’s precise tidiness, appreciating her dedication and methodical nature. She takes a deep breath, preparing herself for the conversation ahead.

"I had a talk with your foster mother," Lena begins softly, a hint of seriousness in her voice. She takes a moment to gauge Amelia’s reaction, monitoring her expression for any signs of discomfort or apprehension.

Amelia's face betrays no particular emotion as she absorbs Lena's words. She simply looks up at Lena, her wide eyes filled with innocent trust and curiosity. It's clear that she's hanging on to every word Lena is saying, eager to hear the rest of whatever she has to say.

Lena smiles, slightly relieved by Amelia's receptiveness. She continues, her tone gentle yet earnest. "Susan shared with me her thoughts and feelings, her concerns about you being happy here.”

She pauses for a moment, allowing her words to hang in the air before continuing. The seriousness in her voice is still present, but there is a warmth and compassion underlying it.

As she gauges Amelia's reaction, Lena can see that the little girl is listening intently. Her eyes are locked on Lena's, and although her expression remains neutral, Lena can sense that she's actively processing everything being said.

"And after much thought," Lena says softly, her voice carrying a tone of resolution, "I would like to offer you the opportunity to live with me... if that's something you're okay with."

Lena's heart races as she waits for Amelia's response. She can't help but feel a mix of nerves and hopefulness, wondering how the little girl will react to her proposal.

Amelia's eyes widened. “Really?”

Lena smiles warmly and nods, her expression filled with sincerity. "Yes, really," she replies gently. "If that's what you'd like."

She watches as a flicker of excitement dances in Amelia's eyes. The little girl appears genuinely surprised and taken aback by the offer, but it's clear that it holds significant appeal to her.

Lena can see that her offer has struck a chord with Amelia. The little girl's eyes sparkle with a mix of surprise and delight, and there's a newfound eagerness in her expression. "Would you like that?" Lena asks gently, her voice carrying a tender warmth.

Amelia nods vigorously, unable to smother her grin.

Lena chuckles softly at Amelia's excitement. "I'll take that as a yes then," she says with a smile.

She watches intently as Amelia's emotions rise and flutter between surprise and joy. The innocence and honesty in the little girl's reaction speaks volumes about her inner feelings and desires.

Lena's heart fills with a mixture of happiness and satisfaction. She knows that her offer has resonated deeply with Amelia.

"Now, we'll have to figure out the logistical parts," Lena continues softly, her voice filled with both concern and hope. "Where you'll live, when you'll start going to school, how we'll make this transition as smooth as possible for you. It's important that we handle these aspects with care."

Lena's voice carries a tone of seriousness, but beneath it is a warmth and compassion born from her devotion to the little girl sitting before her.

“I don’t really know what logistical means but the questions seem easy enough.” Amelia says with a shrug.

Lena chuckles softly at Amelia's attempt to understand the complexities of the situation. The innocent straightforwardness of the child's response brings a glimmer of amusement to her eyes.

"You're right, logistical might be a bit of a big word," she replies, her tone warm and understanding. "It means we need to figure out the practical details, like how you'll live with me and go about your daily life."

Her lips formed a little o shape as the realization dawned on her, and she nodded slightly.

Lena smiles softly at Amelia's expression, her heart warmed by the little girl's innocence. "Don't worry, we'll take this one step at a time," she reassures her, her voice filled with warmth and kindness.

She can sense that Amelia is willing to trust and follow her guidance, and that fills her with a deep sense of responsibility and determination to handle this situation with the utmost care and consideration.

After many weeks of visits, paperwork, court calls, and social workers, it was finalized. Lena Luthor had officially adopted a child. It felt absolutely unreal. She was ecstatic to head over to Susan's house, tell Amelia that she would finally be able to come with her.

She gave her greetings to the family when she arrived, heading over to Amelia's room. As always, she was met with a smothering hug and a bright smile from the girl she'd come to love. "Amelia, I have something to tell you." Lena says with a soft smile, sitting on her knees so they could be eye-to-eye.

Amelia looked her dead in the face, determination flickering in her eyes. "What is it?"

"Well.. the court order finally went through. You, are officially under my custody. Which means, you can come and live with me today." Lena says with a smile, watching as the girls face lit up.

"Really?!" Amelia says, her body thrumming with excited energy. Lena nods, and then Amelia practically throws herself into her arms. Lena laughs slightly, holding her close.

"Yes, really. You ready to start packing?" Lena asks as they part. Amelia nods excitedly, running off to pack her bags. The two work together to pack a few bags full of her belongings, Lena grabbing two of them and Amelia slinging on her backpack.

Lena extends her hand, and Amelia, with a smile, takes it. The two say their thanks and goodbyes to her foster family, and then they were off.

As they drive, Lena's mind turns to the logistics of raising a child. There will be meals to prepare, homework to help with, emotional outbursts to comfort. It’s a far cry from her usual life as a billionaire CEO and successful businesswoman. The thought kind of hits her hard, and she doesn’t know what to do with herself. So naturally, she calls the first person she thought of. Kara. Her bubbly, charismatic, best friend that she was sort of secretly in love with who happened to be her lifeline and great with kids.

She dials the familiar number, waiting expectantly for Kara to pick up. The line rings once, twice, before finally connecting. "Hello?" comes Kara's cheerful voice down the line.

"Hey, Kara," Lena replies, her voice carrying a hint of relief. "I know this is last minute but would you mind coming over tonight? I... need to see you."

There's a brief pause on the line before Kara responds. "Of course, Lena. Is everything alright? You sound a little frazzled.."

Lena lets out a heavy sigh, her shoulders slumping slightly as she gathers her thoughts. "It's been one hell of a day," she admits, her tone weary. "I'll fill you in when you get here. But I could really use your help right now..."

"I'm on my way," Kara replies, and Lena can practically hear the determination in her voice. "Ten minutes, tops."

Lena nods, even though she knows Kara can't see her. "Thanks, Kara," she says quietly, a sense of relief washing over her. "See you soon."

Hanging up the phone, Lena turns her attention back to the road, weaving through the city traffic with practiced ease. With Kara on her way, she feels a little better, knowing that she'll have the support she needs to tackle whatever comes next.

The minutes tick by slowly, each one stretching on indefinitely as Lena drives. Her thoughts keep drifting back to Amelia in the backseat, and the weight of responsibility she now carries. Her heart is clenched tightly in her chest, as she worries about what the future holds for both of them.

Finally, after what seems like an eternity, they arrive back at Lena’s penthouse. She parks the car and turns off the ignition, a heavy sigh escaping her. As she swings out of the driver’s seat, she turns back towards the back door where Amelia is already unbuckling her seatbelt and climbing out of the car.

"Alright, kiddo, time to go inside," Lena says gently, holding out her hand for Amelia to take. She grabs the little girl's bags with the other hand, her grip firm and steady.

Together, they make their way into the building and up the elevator to Lena’s penthouse. As they step out into the luxurious apartment, Lena can feel Amelia’s eyes taking in the surroundings, her gaze bouncing from one extravagant piece of decor to the next.

Lena releases a breath she didn’t know she was holding as she leads Amelia into the living room, setting down her bags on the couch. As she turns to Amelia to say something, the sound of the doorbell rings through the apartment.

"That must be Kara," she says, a warm smile gracing her lips. She quickly heads to the front door and opens it, revealing Kara on the other side.

Her heart skips a beat at the sight of her best friend, standing there with a concerned expression on her face. "Hey," Lena says softly, a hint of relief in her voice. "Thanks for coming so quickly."

"Of course," Kara replies, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You sounded like you needed me. What's going on?"

Lena closes the door behind Kara, gesturing for her to follow. "Let's talk in the living room," she suggests, already leading the way towards the couch where Amelia is waiting.

As they enter the living room, they find Amelia sitting quietly, her gaze wandering around the room as she takes it all in. Lena's heart feels a little lighter at the sight of the curious little girl, her innocence and naivete contrasting starkly with the heavy weight that has settled on her shoulders.

Amelia's eyes land on Lena and Kara, and she gives Kara a tentative smile and a small wave.

Kara's expression softens at Amelia's sweet greeting, her heart melting at the little girl's shy yet endearing wave. She smiles back warmly, her gaze full of gentle affection.

Lena sits down on the couch, gesturing for Kara to take a seat beside her. She takes a deep breath, steeling herself for what she's about to say.

"I adopted a child today," she says quietly, eyes meeting Kara's. "That’s why I needed to see you. And why I've been so busy lately."

Amelia nods. “I live here now,” she says proudly.

Kara blinks in surprise, her eyes widening a fraction. She turns to Lena, a mixture of disbelief and curiosity in her expression. "You what now? You don’t just... adopt a child on a whim, Lena."

Lena sighs, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I know," she admits, her voice tinged with a mix of weariness and protectiveness. "It was kind of planned but also kind of not. But I want to do this."

Kara studies her face for a moment, searching for any signs of reluctance or doubt. But all she finds is determination and a hint of vulnerability. She knows Lena well enough to recognize that once she sets her mind on something, there's no going back.

She sighs softly, a hint of admiration in her voice. "You really do everything with full force, don’t you?" she murmurs, shaking her head with a fond smile.

Lena's lips curl up into a small smile, a hint of a blush creeping up her cheeks at the compliment. "That's me," she says with a shrug, trying to brush off the sincerity of Kara's observation. "Always a little overboard."

Kara leans back in her seat, her body language open and receptive. "Okay. I'm listening. Tell me everything. I want to know everything about this... sudden adoption of yours."

Lena nods, taking a deep breath before launching into the story. She starts from the beginning, telling Kara about the class she subbed and how she was in it. Younger than the rest and fairly antisocial, Lena noticed quickly the bruises that littered her body. They grew a tight bond, and Lena helped Amelia get out of her household. When she went to visit her at her new foster home, the mom had said how closed off she was. Barely spoke, barely made eye contact, spent a lot of time alone. The second she saw Lena she was talking non-stop, more animated than her foster parents had ever seen her. She was comfortable with Lena. They recommended she take her. So she did. Lena also threw in the fact that Amelia was probably autistic and how she had absolutely no idea how to raise a child, all of her anxieties rushing out in one go.

As she spoke, Lena could see the emotions flitting across Kara's face, from surprise to sympathy and disbelief. But despite the shock, Kara listened intently, her gaze filled with concern for both Lena and Amelia. When Lena finished speaking, there was a moment of silence as Kara processed everything she had just been told.

"Okay," Kara says finally, her voice steady and laced with reassurance. "First things first, you're not alone in this, alright? I know you think you have to handle everything on your own, but you don't. You have me. And you have the resources to hire the best child psychologist money can buy. You won't struggle with this alone, I promise."

Lena's shoulders sag slightly in relief, a small weight lifted off her shoulders. She hadn't realized how much she needed to hear those words until Kara said them. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "That means... more than you know."

Kara reaches out, taking Lena's hand in hers and squeezing it gently. "It's going to be a learning curve," she says softly, her thumb tracing small circles on the back of Lena's hand. "But you're strong, and you're brilliant. You'll figure it out, one day at a time."

Lena shakes her head, her expression a mixture of worry and determination. "I've been so focused on taking care of her living arrangements and everything else that I haven't had a chance to look into resources yet. I'm kind of... going in half-blind here."

"Well, there's a reason we have the internet," Kara says, a hint of amusement in her voice as she taps her phone screen. "I'll send you some links to some great resources for parents of autistic children. There are also a bunch of support groups and forums you can join, where you can connect with other parents who are going through the same thing. You're not alone in this, okay?"

Lena nods, grateful for Kara's quick thinking and supportive nature. "You're right. I know I should take advantage of all the resources out there, but it's just... overwhelming."

She glances in Amelia's direction, her gaze softening. "I just want to make sure I'm doing everything I can for her. She deserves the best."

"You're already doing an amazing job," Kara assures her, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "You're providing her with a safe home and unconditional love, which is the most important thing. Everything else will fall into place in time."

"I hope so," Lena murmurs, her eyes filled with a mixture of hope and trepidation. "I just worry about the future. I want to make sure she has every opportunity to succeed and be happy."

Kara nods in understanding. "That's a natural concern, but you're setting the foundation for her to thrive. And as long as you continue to be there for her and support her every step of the way, she'll be just fine."

As Lena absorbs Kara's words, she feels a flicker of hope ignite within her. With Kara's unwavering support and the resources she's been given, she starts to believe that maybe, just maybe, she can do this. She turns to Kara, a small but heartfelt smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Thank you, Kara. I really mean that. You always know what to say to make me feel better."

"That's what best friends are for," Kara replies, giving Lena's hand a reassuring squeeze. "And you would do the same for me in a heartbeat."

A comfortable silence falls over them for a moment, broken only by the gentle hum of the city outside. Finally, Kara breaks the silence, a playful smile spreading across her face. "So, do I get to be her aunt now? Can I be the fun aunt who spoils her rotten?"

Lena laughs, the sound light and carefree. "Of course you can be the fun aunt. But I'm warning you now, if you give her too many sweets, you're dealing with the resulting sugar high, not me."

"I make no promises," Kara says, a mischievous glint in her eye. "But I will try my best to resist the temptation to shower her with chocolate and gummy worms."

"I love chocolate." Amelia pipes up with a grin, looking up from the comic book she had grabbed.

Lena and Kara both turn to Amelia, surprised by her sudden contribution to the conversation. Lena blinks for a moment before a soft smile spreads across her face. "Is that right, sweetheart?" she asks gently. "You like chocolate?"

Amelia nods. Lena's smile widens at her confirmation. "That's good to know. How about we have some chocolate for dessert?"

Kara chimes in with a playful grin, "And maybe some gummy worms too?"

Amelia nods again in agreement, unable to hide her excitement.

"Okay then, it's settled," Lena says, rising to her feet. "Chocolate and gummy worms for dessert, coming right up."

She heads towards the kitchen, leaving Kara alone with Amelia in the living room.

"So," Kara says, turning to Amelia with an friendly grin. "You like comics, huh? What are you reading?"

"I'm re-reading the new Supergirl comic." Amelia says,

Kara's eyes lit up as she heard the mention of Supergirl. "You know, I heard that one is really great," she says, a hint of pride in her voice. "I hear that the character is pretty awesome."

She leans in a little closer, lowering her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. "And just between you and me, she just so happens to be a really good friend of mine."

Amelia's eyes widen. “What? Are you serious?”

Kara nods, a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of her lips. "Oh, I'm dead serious. In fact, if you want, I could even arrange a little meet and greet. You could meet the real Supergirl in person."

She leans in closer, winking conspiratorially. "But only if you promise to keep it a secret."

"Can you really?" Amelia asks, her voice full of excitement and pure adoration.

Kara smiles, thrilled by Amelia's enthusiasm. "Of course! As long as you keep it a secret from everyone else, I could arrange for you to meet the real Supergirl."

She lowers her voice to a whisper, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "And who knows, maybe she'll even give you an autograph. How cool would that be?"

“That would be so cool.” Amelia says.

"It's settled then," Kara says with a decisive nod. "I'll arrange a little surprise for you. But remember, you can't say a word to anyone, alright? It's our little secret."

She nods. “Even Lena?”

"Especially Lena," Kara says, shaking her head admonishingly. "We want this to be a surprise after all, right? Can you keep it a secret for me?"

Amelia nods, pretending to lock her lips shut.

"Perfect," Kara says with a nod of satisfaction. "I knew I could count on you, little secret-keeper. Just wait until you meet her. She's even cooler in person, trust me."

Meanwhile, Lena rummages through the pantry, looking for some chocolate bars and gummy worms. She finally finds them tucked away in the back. As she gathers the goodies, she can’t help but overhear the conversation in the living room. With a small smile, she shakes her head, amused at Kara’s offer to introduce Amelia to Supergirl.

Taking the chocolate and gummy worms in hand, Lena heads back into the living room, surprised by the silence that greets her. Looking towards Amelia and Kara, she sees Amelia staring intently at something in her comic book, a look of wonder on her face. Kara, on the other hand, is leaning in, speaking in hushed whispers to Amelia, a conspiratorial look on her face.

"What are you two whispering about?" Lena asks curiously.

Both Amelia and Kara turn to look at Lena, their expressions innocently guilty. Kara gives her a sheepish grin. "Oh, nothing!" she replies, waving her hand dismissively. "Just a little girl talk. Nothing to worry about. Right, Amelia?"

She nods. “Right!”

Lena eyes them both suspiciously for a moment, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Is that so? It didn't sound like nothing. It sounded very much like something to me."

She walks over to the couch, placing the chocolate and gummy worms on the coffee table in front of them. "Now, spill the beans. What were you two gossiping about?"

Kara glances at Amelia before sighing. "Fine, I'll tell you. But only if you promise not to get mad."

Lena raises an eyebrow, her suspicion growing. "Well, that sounds... ominous. What could you possibly have done that would make me mad?"

Amelia watches the interaction, sneakily shoving a gummy worm into her mouth.

Kara takes a deep breath, bracing herself. "Okay, well, I may or may not have promised this one," she gestures at Amelia, "that I would arrange a meeting with the real Supergirl."

Lena's eyes widen in surprise, but she can't help the small smile that spreads across her face. "Is that so?"

She turns to Amelia, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "And what did you think about that?"

“It sounds amazing.” Amelia exclaims, swallowing her mouthful of gummies.

Lena's gaze lingers on Amelia for a moment before shifting back to Kara. "I see," she says, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "And how exactly are you planning to arrange this meet-and-greet with Supergirl, might I ask?"

Kara's grin widens, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "Oh, don't worry. I've got a few tricks up my sleeve."

She glances at Amelia, then back at Lena. "But we can discuss the details later. For now, let's focus on dessert."

Lena nods, the conversation temporarily forgotten. They gather around the coffee table, chatting and munching on chocolate and gummy worms, the promise of a superhero encounter looming tantalizingly in the background.

As they enjoy their dessert, Lena can't help but marvel at the bond forming between Amelia and Kara. It warms her heart to see Amelia blossoming under Kara's care, and she can't help but feel a flicker of gratitude for her best friend.

Lena watches Amelia nibbling on her gummy worms, a contented expression on her face. She feels a sudden realization wash over her – the realization that she has everything she wanted, maybe more. The contentment and security she's been craving, both for herself and for Amelia, are within reach.

As the conversation turns to lighthearted chatter, Lena finds herself getting lost in thought, contemplating the turn her life has taken. She never would have thought she'd end up a mother figure to a child with autism, and yet here she is, on the verge of creating a family unit with Kara.

Lena smiles softly to herself, a newfound sense of contentment filling her heart. She looks at Amelia, then at Kara, and can't help but feel the weight of her past lifted off her shoulders.

For the first time in a long time, Lena feels hopeful about the future.

The evening continues to wane, the soft glow of the overhead lights casting a warm ambiance in the room. As the conversation starts to dwindle, Kara glances at her watch.

"Wow, it's getting late," she says with a small laugh. "I should probably head home."

Lena nods, a twinge of disappointment in her chest. "I suppose you're right," she says. "It's getting rather late."

However, her gaze lingers on Kara, a hint of longing in her eyes. She doesn't quite want the evening to end just yet.

“Or- you could stay. If you want.” She blurts out, flush creeping up her neck.

Kara looks at Lena, surprise and a hint of excitement in her eyes. "Really? Are you sure? I wouldn't want to impose..." she says, the offer sounding too good to pass up. But she can see the flicker of longing in Lena's eyes, and she can't help but feel a flutter in her own chest.

"No, no, it's perfectly fine," Lena reassures her, her voice tinged with a subtle note of something more. "You wouldn't be imposing at all. I'd..." she hesitates, her voice softening, "I'd like it if you stayed."

Kara smiles, a warm and genuine smile, before nodding. "Okay, I'll stay."

Lena's face lights up as Kara agrees to stay, a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Great, it's settled then."

She turns to Amelia, who is half-asleep on the couch, her comic book abandoned nearby. "And how do you feel about Kara staying the night, sweetheart?"

Amelia lifts her head, her tired eyes flickering open. She gives Kara a sleepy nod, her response coming out as a yawn.

"Seems like you have a fan," Kara says with a soft chuckle, watching Amelia. She gives her a friendly pat on the shoulder, earning a small, tired smile in return.

With Amelia satisfied and seemingly dozing off on the couch, Lena stands up, stretching her arms above her head. "I should get her to bed," she murmurs, her gaze shifting back and forth between Amelia and Kara.

Kara rises, stretching out and stifling a yawn of her own. "No worries. I'll help, if you want."

Lena blinks, surprised by the offer. She wasn't expecting Kara to be willingly offering to help her with her newfound parenting duties, but she can't deny the warmth that spreads through her chest at the gesture. "Oh... that would be wonderful. Thank you."

Lena wordlessly carries Amelia to her room, gently laying her down on her bed and pulling the covers over her. Lena tucks her in, brushing a strand of hair out of her face and pressing a light kiss to her forehead. Kara watches with a soft smile on her face, lingering in the doorway.

As they carefully close the door behind them, Kara turns to Lena with a soft smile. "She's such a sweetheart," she whispers, her voice filled with affection.

"That she is," Lena murmurs in agreement, a tender expression on her face. "Kara," she continues, her voice barely above a whisper, "thank you. For everything. I-" she hesitates, her voice faltering as her gaze meets Kara's.

Kara's eyes soften as she looks at Lena, her gaze filled with warmth and understanding. "You don't have to thank me, Lena," she says softly.

They stand there for a moment, the air between them filled with an unspoken tension. Lena's gaze lingers on Kara's lips, her heart fluttering with longing.

Before she can overthink it, Lena takes a step closer to Kara, her heart pounding in her chest. She gazes into Kara's eyes, a mix of emotions swirling within her. "Kara," she whispers, her voice wavering. "There's something I've... wanted to tell you for a long time now."

Kara's breath hitches, her eyes widening in surprise and anticipation. She waits, her heart racing, for Lena to continue.

"Kara, I..." Lena takes a deep breath, her heart in her throat. "I love you. I've loved you longer than I care to admit, and I-"

Before she can finish, Kara steps closer, cutting off her words with a gentle kiss. It's a soft, tender kiss, filled with the depth of their feelings for each other. As their lips meet, Lena feels the weight of her fears and worries melt away, replaced by a sense of calmness and contentment she hasn't felt in a long, long time.

"I love you too," Kara whispers, breaking the kiss but keeping her forehead pressed against Lena's. "I've loved you for so long, and I was afraid you didn't feel the same."

Lena's eyes well up with tears, her heart overflowing with emotion. She presses her forehead against Kara's, their breaths mingling in the quietness of the room.

"I'm sorry it took me so long to say it," Lena whispers brokenly, her voice shaking. "I was scared, scared of what people would think, scared of what would happen to us if things went wrong..."

Kara gently cups Lena's face in her hands, brushing away her tears with her thumb. "It's okay," she reassures, her voice filled with love and understanding. "We're here now, and that's all that matters. And I'm never letting you go again."

Lena's lips quirk into a watery smile. "Promise?" she murmurs, her voice laced with a mix of vulnerability and hope.

Kara's eyes shine with a fierce determination. "I promise," she affirms, her grip on Lena's hand tightening. "No matter what happens, I will be by your side."

Lena feels her heart swell with a mixture of relief and joy, unable to hold back her tears any longer. And in that moment, wrapped in Kara's embrace, she finally feels at peace.

As the night wears on, Lena and Kara retire to bed, their hearts and minds full of newfound contentment and love. The house is quiet, the only sound coming from the occasional hoot of an owl outside or the soft creaking of the floorboards. Wrapped in each other's arms, they fall into a peaceful slumber, their breathing falling into a steady rhythm.

However, in the depths of the night, Lena wakes with a sudden start, her eyes snapping open. There's a sense of unease in the air, as if something is... off. She turns her head towards Kara, who lies next to her, still deeply asleep.

She listens intently, but there's no unusual noise. Just the quiet hum of the night and the soft sound of Kara's breathing. Perhaps it was just a bad dream? Regardless, she can't shake off the feeling of restlessness.

With a sigh, Lena carefully extricates herself from Kara's arms, trying not to wake her. The last thing she wants to do is disturb her peaceful rest.

She heads out of the room, tiptoeing through the house, and makes her way towards Amelia's room. Maybe checking on her will help soothe her nerves.

As she approaches Amelia's door, she peers inside, her gaze falling upon the sleeping figure of Amelia, wrapped up in her sheets like a burrito. A small smile tugs at Lena's lips at the sight, a warm pang of love piercing through her chest. She lingers for a moment, watching the rhythmic rise and fall of Amelia's breath.

Feeling reassured by the sight, she turns to head back towards her room. But then she hears it – a strange, almost imperceptible creak coming from downstairs.

Her senses suddenly on high alert, Lena strains her ears, trying to discern any further sounds. The house remains eerily silent, and yet that unsettling feeling remains, deep in her gut.

She hesitates for a moment, torn between returning to her room and exploring the source of the noise. The logical part of her thinks it might be nothing, perhaps just the house settling or the wind outside. But the gnawing worry in her gut tells her otherwise.

With a determined set to her jaw, Lena quietly heads downstairs.

Lena descends the stairs, every step feeling heavy with caution. Her eyes dart around the room, taking in the faint moonlight streaming through the windows. The living room appears to be undisturbed, and yet she can't shake off the sense of wrongness that pervades the air.

Just as she's about to convince herself it was all her imagination, a sound catches her attention – a shuffling noise from the kitchen.

Without a second thought, Lena lunges into action, rushing towards the intruder. The element of surprise grants her the advantage, and her body slams into theirs with a force that sends them both stumbling back.

In the heat of the moment, her adrenaline coursing through her veins, Lena grapples with the intruder, their bodies locked in a fierce struggle. The world around her blurs as she fights, her sole focus zeroed in on subduing this unknown threat.

She knows she has to act quickly. With a swift movement, she flips the intruder onto their stomach and plants her knee between their shoulder blades, keeping them down.

"Who are you and what do you want?" she demands, her voice low and lethal.

The intruder groans in protest, struggling against her grip. Lena tightens her hold, her knees digging into their back to keep them pinned down.

"Answer me," she hisses, her voice cold and commanding. "What are you doing in my house?"

The intruder remains stubbornly silent, and Lena's frustration mounts. With a swift movement, she grabs one of their arms and twists it behind their back, eliciting a pained gasp.

"You have two seconds to start talking before I dislocate your shoulder," she warns, her voice laced with determination.

The intruder writhes in pain, their body tensing up. Lena holds the arm taut, the threat hanging in the air. Finally, they let out a muttered curse and a groan of defeat.

"Okay, okay, I'll talk! Just... let go."

Reluctantly, Lena lets go of the intruder's arm, allowing them to roll onto their side and face her.

The intruder raises their head, their features coming into view. Lena's eyes widen as she takes in the face of the person lying in front of her. The dim moonlight filtering through the kitchen window cast eerie shadows upon the intruder's face. Despite that, Lena can see a pair of eyes filled with anger and hatred staring back at her.

And with a sickening realization, she suddenly understands exactly who it is she's facing.

"Morgan Edge," she whispers, her heart filling with a cold dread. "What are you doing here?"

The intruder's lips curl into a cruel smile, his eyes glinting spitefully. "Oh, just a little unfinished business, Luthor. You took my daughter, almost got me thrown in prison.”

Lena's heart skips a beat as the words sink in, her anger quickly boiling to the surface. "She wasn't safe with you," she retorts, her voice trembling with fury. "You don't deserve to call yourself her father."

"You think you know what's best for her, huh?" Morgan spits, his voice dripping with venom. "You think you can just swoop in and play the hero, rescue her from me, from her own flesh and blood?”

"You were hurting her!" Lena snaps, her fists clenched at her sides. "Your own daughter! How do you justify that?"

Morgan lets out a bitter laugh, his eyes glittering with a twisted amusement. "Oh, I'm sorry if I didn't wrap her up in cotton wool and sing her lullabies every night," he sneers.

"No, you just hit her and manipulated her until she feared you," Lena snaps back, her voice filled with disgust and anger. "That's not parenting, that's abuse. You have no right to call yourself her father."

"I am her father!" Morgan roars, struggling against his restraints. "And I'll always be her father!”

Lena's anger reaches a boiling point, and she slaps him across the face, the sound echoing through the room. "No, you're not. You're nothing to her, and she's better off without you."

Morgan writhes and struggles beneath her, his face contorting into a mask of fury. "You think you won, don't you?" he sneers, a hint of madness lingering in his eyes.

Lena can feel her own anger rising in response. "I didn't do this to win," she retorts, her voice cold and resolute. "I did this to protect Amelia. And I'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe, from you and anyone else who dares to threaten her."

The sound of a light switching on pierces the tense atmosphere, and Lena's attention snaps towards the doorway, where Kara stands, sleep still clouding her features. Her eyes, however, are focused and alert, reflecting the intensity of the scene unfolding before her.

"Kara?" Lena gasps, unable to hide the shock and surprise coursing through her.

Kara's eyes narrow as she takes in the sight before her - Lena pinning Morgan to the floor, her expression a mixture of anger and surprise. She walks closer, her steps slow and calculated, until she stands next to Lena.

"What the hell is going on here?" Kara demands, her voice carrying a steely edge.

"It's Morgan Edge," Lena mutters, her eyes never leaving the man pinned below her. "He broke into the house."

Kara's expression darkens, her jaw clenching as she comprehends the situation. The gravity of the moment weighs heavily upon them, and the air crackles with tension.

Morgan lets out a bitter laugh, a sinister edge to his voice. "Oh, look who's here. Kara Danvers, the beloved reporter. I should've known you'd be involved too."

Kara's eyes flash with anger, her hands balling into fists at her sides. "You have no right to invade her home, Edge," she retorts, her voice firm. "And you have no right to hurt Lena or Amelia."

"Right, because she's so innocent in all this," Morgan sneers, glancing up at Lena. "You think you're heroes, don't you? Saving children, fighting for justice... But what do you know about real pain, really suffering?"

Lena's eyes harden, her gaze turning cold. "More than you could ever imagine," she retorts, her voice laced with a quiet fury. "You have no idea what I've had to endure, what I've sacrificed."

"Please, spare me your sob story," Morgan retorts, rolling his eyes. "You think you're so high and mighty, so morally superior. But you're no better than me. You've hurt people, just like I have."

Kara steps closer to Morgan, her body tensing as if ready for a fight. "Don't compare yourself to her," she snaps, her voice tight with anger. "Lena is nothing like you. She would never intentionally hurt innocent people."

"Spoken like a true believer," Morgan scoffs, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "You think you know her, but you don't. People like her, they're willing to do anything to protect themselves and their interests. Even if it means hurting others."

Lena bristles at his words, her fists clenching at her sides. "You know nothing about me," she sneers, her voice low and dangerous.

It was barely noticeable, but Lena heard a sniffle. A very small, very quiet sniffle coming from the doorway.

Lena stiffens, her heart clenching in her chest at the sound. She slowly turns her head, her eyes widening as she sees Amelia standing in the doorway holding her favorite plushie.

"Amelia," Lena whispers, her voice filled with surprise and concern. She quickly releases her hold on Morgan, her attention fully on Amelia now.

Amelia stands there, her eyes wide with fear, the plushie clutched tightly in her arms.

"It's okay, sweetheart," Lena says softly, her voice gentle. "You're safe now. I won't let him hurt you."

Amelia nods silently, tears streaming down her face. Lena gets up, her body aching from the struggle with Morgan, and walks over to kneel in front of Amelia. She gathers the young girl in her arms, holding her tightly.

"Everything's going to be alright," Lena reassures her, her voice soothing. Amelia clings to her, burying her face in Lena's shoulder.

As Lena holds Amelia in her arms, her gaze flicks back to Kara and Morgan. Kara is standing there, her body tense and her eyes filled with concern. Morgan, meanwhile, is still on the floor, struggling to free himself from the chair he's now tied to. Kara must have tied him up to keep him at bay.

Lena takes a deep breath, her jaw clenching in determination. "We need to call the police," she says firmly, her voice steady.

Kara nods, her expression serious. "I'll take care of it," she replies, already dialing 911.

Lena continues to hold Amelia, her focus once again on the young girl. She gently strokes her hair, whispers soothing words, and tries to comfort her trembling form.

"It's okay, sweetheart," Lena whispers, her heart aching at Amelia's fearful shaking. "You're safe now. I promise."

As she holds the trembling child, she can't help but feel a mixture of anger and sadness. How dare Morgan Edge bring this kind of trauma into their lives. How dare he try to hurt Amelia again. She vows to protect her no matter what, to make sure he can never hurt her again.

As the sound of sirens in the distance grows louder, a sense of relief washes over Lena. The police will take care of Morgan, and he'll never be able to hurt Amelia again.

She looks down at the young girl in her arms, her heart swelling with a protective love.

"You're so brave," Lena whispers, her voice filled with affection. "You were so brave, and I'm so proud of you."

Amelia pulls away slightly, looking up at Lena with teary eyes. "I was scared," she whispers, her voice small and vulnerable.

Lena nods, her eyes filled with understanding. "It's okay to be scared," she reassures her. "But you were also really brave. You came and found us. You stood up for yourself. That takes real courage."

“Like Supergirl?” Amelia whispers.

Lena chuckles softly, a small smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, just like Supergirl," she affirms, gently cradling Amelia's face in her hand. "But remember, you don't need a cape and tights to be brave. You already have your own kind of superpower inside you."

Amelia blinks up at her, her eyes wide with awe. "I do?" she asks, her voice filled with wonder.

Lena nods, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Absolutely," she replies. "Your superpower is the strength of your heart. It's the courage to feel and love deeply, even in the face of fear. And that's something no one can ever take away from you."

Amelia sniffles, her eyes watering again as she nods. She buries her face back against Lena's chest, her small body trembling with a mixture of emotions.

Lena holds her tightly, gently stroking her hair as she continues to soothe her. The sound of distant voices and footsteps grow closer, and a sense of relief washes over Lena knowing that help is here.

The police burst into the room, their guns drawn and their stances alert. They take in the scene before them - Kara standing near the window, her phone in hand, while Lena kneels by Amelia, still clinging to her. And in the center of the room is Morgan, now tied firmly to a chair. The expression on his face is a mixture of anger and defeat.

"Everything's under control," Lena tells the officers, her voice steady and authoritative. "Morgan Edge broke in and was probably going to kidnap her," She says, gesturing to the girl wrapped in her arms.

One of the officers nods, his eyes darting towards the tied up man. "We'll take it from here," he assures her, approaching Morgan and carefully lifting him up.

Lena watches as they take Morgan away, a wave of relief washing over her. She turns her attention back to Amelia, who's still trembling in her arms.

"It's okay," Lena reassures her, her voice gentle and soothing. "You're safe now. They're going to take him away, and he can't hurt you anymore."

Amelia nods against her shoulder, her small body still racked with sobs. Lena looks up to find Kara standing nearby, her expression filled with concern. "Is she okay?" she asks softly.

"She will be," Lena replies, her eyes never leaving Amelia. "She's just scared. She won't even let go of me."

Kara nods, understanding the situation. "Maybe you should take her upstairs and let her rest," she suggests gently. "She needs to feel safe."

Lena nods her agreement and carefully scoops Amelia up in her arms. "Come on, sweetheart," she whispers, her voice filled with affection. "Let's go upstairs."

Lena walks out of the kitchen, Amelia cradled in her arms, and heads towards the stairs. She can hear the police talking amongst themselves as they remove Morgan, but her focus is solely on the young girl in her arms.

Lena gently places Amelia on her bed, pulling the covers up around her. Amelia's eyes are wide and frightened, her small body trembling slightly.

Lena sits down next to her, rubbing her back soothingly. "It's okay," she whispers, her voice filled with warmth. "You're safe now. You can rest."

Amelia clings to her, refusing to let go, her small fingers grasping at Lena's shirt.

Lena's heart aches at the sight, her own eyes watering slightly. She continues to rub Amelia's back, her voice soft and soothing. "You've been so brave, but now it's time to rest. You need to sleep," she murmurs softly. "I'll be right here the whole time. I'm not going anywhere."

The words seem to comfort Amelia, and slowly her sobs subside, her breathing becoming calmer. Her grip on Lena's shirt loosens as fatigue sets in, and she finally drifts off to sleep, the exhaustion from the night's events finally overpowering her.

Lena watches over her for a few more moments, making sure she's completely asleep before gently extracting herself from Amelia's embrace. She tucks the covers more securely around the child's small frame and quietly pads out of the room, closing the door behind her. In the hallway, Kara is waiting for her, concern etched on her face.

"Is she resting?" Kara asks, worry evident in her voice.

Lena nods, a mixture of exhaustion and relief washing over her. "She's asleep," she replies, her voice soft. "She was clinging to me, refusing to let go. It broke my heart."

Kara gently takes Lena's hand, her voice filled with understanding. "She trusts you, that's all. You're her safe place."

Lena nods, her gaze dropping to their entwined fingers. "I just want her to feel safe and protected," she whispers.

"And she does," Kara reassures her, her tone firm. "You don't give yourself enough credit sometimes, Luthor. You're more than just her caregiver; you're her rock."

Lena looks up at her, her voice barely above a whisper. "I hope so," she replies, her voice filled with vulnerability. "I never want her to feel alone or afraid again."

Kara pulls Lena into a hug, her arms wrapping securely around her. Lena melts into the embrace, her head resting on Kara's shoulder, and for a moment, the weight of the world seems bearable again.

"You're a good person, Lena Luthor," Kara whispers into her ear, her voice filled with conviction. "And Amelia knows that, even if you don't."

Lena tightens her grip, taking comfort in the warmth of Kara's embrace. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice breaking slightly. "I just want to do right by her."

Kara pulls back slightly, her eyes meeting Lena's. "And you are," she says firmly. "You've been doing right by her since the moment you brought her into your life."

Lena nods, her throat tightening with emotion. She reaches up to press a hand to Kara's cheek, her thumb gently tracing the line of her jaw.

"I don't know what I would do without you," Lena whispers, her voice filled with vulnerability. "Thank you for being here for us."

Kara smiles, pressing a kiss to the palm of Lena's hand. "Always," she replies, her voice soft and sincere. "You and Amelia are my family now. And I'll always be here for you."

Lena feels a flood of warmth wash over her at the words, a sense of belonging that she hadn't felt in a long time. She closes the distance between them and presses her lips to Kara's in a tender kiss, expressing all the gratitude and love she can't find the words for.

Kara responds in kind, her hands coming to rest on Lena's waist, pulling her closer. They hold each other closely, their lips moving together in a gentle dance, the world around them melting away. For a moment, they are cocooned in their own little bubble, safe and cherished and loved.

When they finally pull apart, their breath mingling in the small space between them, Lena's heart feels fuller than it has in a long time. She rests her forehead against Kara's, her voice soft and filled with love.

"I don't know what I did to deserve you," she whispers, her fingers tenderly caressing Kara's cheek.

Kara smiles, her eyes shining with warmth and affection. "You don't have to do anything special to deserve love, Lena," she replies, her voice filled with sincerity. "You just have to be yourself. And for me, that's more than enough."

Lena feels a rush of emotions at the words, a sense of contentment and gratitude washing over her. She knows it won't always be easy, that life will undoubtedly throw more challenges their way. But in this moment, with Kara by her side and Amelia sleeping peacefully upstairs, Lena feels like they can face anything that comes their way, as long as they have each other.

"I love you," she whispers, the words coming out as a soft exhale against Kara's lips. She feels Kara's arms tighten around her, her smile growing wider.

"I love you too," Kara whispers back, her voice filled with emotion. And in that moment, as they stand in the dimly lit hallway, surrounded by love and warmth, everything feels right in the world.

They stay wrapped in each other's arms for a few moments longer, basking in the comfort and safety the embrace provides. But eventually, the day's events catch up to them, and Lena sighs softly, reluctantly untangling herself from Kara's embrace.

"We should probably head upstairs and get some rest too," she suggests quietly, her voice tinged with exhaustion.

Kara nods in agreement, her hand still lingering on Lena's hip. "Yeah, you're right," she replies, a yawn escaping her lips as if just recalling her own fatigue. "Let's go."

They make their way upstairs, moving quietly so as not to disturb Amelia's slumber. As they pass by her room, Lena can't resist peeking inside, her heart swelling with affection at the sight of the sleeping child, safe and sound in her bed. Kara's hand slips back into hers, a comforting presence by her side as they continue down the hall to their own room.

They settle into bed, their bodies fitting together perfectly in the darkness. Lena curls into Kara's side, her head resting on her chest as she listens to the steady beat of her heart. Kara's arm wraps around her, pulling her close and holding her securely.

As they drift off to sleep, wrapped in each other's embrace, Lena feels a sense of contentment wash over her.

They sleep soundly for the rest of the night, the exhaustion from the day's events finally catching up to them. In their sleep, they move closer to each other, their limbs tangled and their breaths mingling.

In the early hours of the morning, the sun peeks over the horizon, casting a soft light through the window. Lena stirs slightly, her eyes fluttering open to take in the sight of Kara, still asleep beside her.

She watches her for a moment, marveling at the rise and fall of her chest, the way her hair is splayed across her pillow.

Lena reaches out to gently brush a strand of hair back from Kara's face, her touch soft and affectionate. Kara stirs slightly at the contact, her eyes opening to meet Lena's. She smiles sleepily, her voice rough with the remnants of sleep.

"Morning," she whispers, her hand coming up to cover Lena's where it rests on her cheek.

"Morning," Lena replies, her voice still husky with sleep. She leans in to capture Kara's lips in a gentle kiss, savoring the softness of her mouth. Kara returns the kiss, her arms encircling Lena's waist and pulling her closer.

They stay like that for a few moments, exchanging gentle kisses and soft touches, enjoying the quiet of the morning and the comfort of being in each other's arms.

Eventually, they pull apart, their foreheads resting against each other. Kara lets out a soft sigh, her eyes still closed as she basks in the warm, hazy feeling of the moment.

Lena runs her fingers through Kara's hair, her touch light and soothing. "We should probably get up and check on Amelia," she whispers, her voice tinged with reluctance.

Kara groans softly, her face scrunching up in mock protest. "Do we have to?" she grumbles, her arms around Lena tightening slightly.

Lena chuckles softly, her hand coming up to cup Kara's cheek. "Yes, we do," she replies, her voice tinged with affectionate amusement. "We're responsible for her, remember? We can't just stay in bed all day, as tempting as it might be."

Kara pouts slightly, her eyes still closed. "Fine," she mutters, reluctantly untangling herself from Lena's embrace. "But I reserve the right to complain the whole time."

Lena laughs, shaking her head at Kara's antics. "That's fair," she concedes, sitting up and stretching her arms above her head.

They both crawl out of bed, shivering slightly as their feet touch the cold hardwood floor. Kara tugs on a hoodie, and Lena slides on a pair of slippers before they make their way down the hall to Amelia's room.

The soft sounds of Amelia's steady breathing can be heard through the closed door, a comforting reassurance that she's still asleep. As they enter the room, they find her curled up in her bed, her arms wrapped tightly around her favorite teddy bear.

Lena approaches the bed, placing a gentle hand on Amelia's head and gently running her fingers through her hair. "Good morning, sleeping beauty," she whispers, a smile tugging at her lips.

Amelia stirs slightly at the touch, blinking her eyes open blearily. She looks up at Lena, her expression still groggy with sleep, and lets out a small yawn. "Morning," she mumbles, her voice still raspy with sleep.

Lena smiles down at her, her heart swelling with affection. "Did you sleep well?" she asks, her voice soft.

Amelia nods, her eyes closing again as she snuggles further into her pillows. "Yeah," she mumbles, her voice muffled by the blankets.

Lena and Kara exchange a knowing look, both of them smiling softly at the sight of Amelia's peaceful expression. Kara reaches over to ruffle Amelia's hair affectionately, eliciting a sleepy protest from the girl.

"Alright, sleepyhead, time to get up and start the day," Kara says, her voice full of gentle teasing.

Amelia grumbles softly, burying her face in her pillow. But after a few moments, she reluctantly pulls herself into a sitting position, rubbing her eyes and stretching her arms.

Lena and Kara watch her, their smiles widening at the sight of her yawns and stretches. "Come on, let's go get some breakfast," Lena says, gesturing for Amelia to follow them out of the room.

Amelia nods, rubbing at her eyes again as she climbs out of bed and shuffles towards the door, her teddy bear still firmly clutched in her arms. Lena and Kara exchange another amused look before they all head out into the hallway, the warm sunlight streaming in through the windows.

As they make their way downstairs, they pass by the mirror in the foyer, their reflections catching their attention. Kara pauses, a smirk on her face as she gazes at the image of the three of them standing there.

"You know, we make a pretty good family," she teases, a hint of mischief in her eyes.

Lena pauses, really acknowledging Kara's words. She was right, they really did. And Lena would be lying if she said she wasn't the happiest she'd ever been. With her favorite two people by her side, she felt a sense of contentment she had never felt before.

A small smile appears on her face as she takes a mental picture of the three of them together.

"Yeah, we really do." She says softly.