Chapter 117
Calliope’s POV-
“No.” I said.
“We need to…” Will started.
“No.” I said again.
“Hayley.” Will said.
Hayley? Who the hell is Hayley?
“Cal?”
“No Will you lied to my face for months! You encouraged me to go out with…” I exclaimed before it all became muffled.
“Cal!” Will shouted and I sat up with a gasp.
“Ah!” I gasped.
“Whoa! Hey, hey you’re okay.” Clint said hugging me and rubbing my back.
“What happened?” I asked panting.
“You started freaking out and passed out.” Josh said.
“Oh, right. I got mugged.” I said shivering.
“You’re okay.” Clint reassured me as there was a knock at the door.
“That’s probably the police.” Josh said going to open the door.
“So uh… don’t freak out but I may have called nine one one and an ambulance may be on its way.” Will said.
“Will!” I shouted.
“You passed out!” Will retorted.
“Hello ma’am, we were told you wanted to report a crime.” One of the police officers said interrupting our discussion.
“Uh yeah, I got mugged about a block away from here.” I said.
About halfway through giving my statement the paramedics arrived. Everyone looked super pissed off when I mentioned the gun pointed at my head but they didn’t say anything. I told them everything valuable that was in my bag. They said they would get on it and if they found anything they let me know.
The paramedics quickly swarmed over me and started checking my vitals.
“Follow my finger please.” One of them said checking my pupillary responses while my blood pressure was being taken. I did as they said while they started asking about my medical history.
“Any family history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attacks or strokes?” they asked.
“No.” I said.
“Do you have a history of anxiety or panic attacks?” they asked.
“What exactly would a panic attack be like?” Will asked.
“Well it depends on the person and the amount of stress they’re under.”
“Stress, like say taking a heavy course load that isn’t really recommended for most students while working a very demanding almost full time job?” Will said giving me a stern look.
“That could be it or it could be a panic response from a big scare like right now. Most people experience shortness of breath or can even stop being able to breathe, black outs, numbness in your extremities, ringing in your ears, sleep paralysis. These are just some. Have you ever experience anything like that before.” They asked.
I stood there and immediately thought back to the incident a few weeks ago at the park.
“Uh… There may have been an incident a few weeks ago, I started having a hard time breathing and may have collapsed while I was out on my morning run.” I said.
“A few weeks ago?” Will said giving me the look. It was the look he gave me before we had to have a serious talk. I hated our serious talks. Will was a master guilt tripper.
“The morning of my interview.” I said.
“Okay Miss Gerard. Your vitals are good. Your blood sugar is probably a bit low so I’d recommend drinking some orange juice or something like that. And I’d also recommend a follow up with your primary physician. If this has happened before it could happen again.” They said before packing up.
“She’ll go tomorrow.” Will said glaring at me. “I’ll make sure of it.”
“Thank you.” I said.
“Of course.” They said before heading out.
“I should probably go too. I’m glad you are well Callie.” Thor said.
“Thanks for everything Thor.” I said standing up to give him a hug.
“Get some rest.” He said.
“Will do.” I said before he walked out. I closed the door behind him and slowly turned around. Will, Clint, and Josh were standing there giving me the same look Will was with their arms crossed. “So crazy night…”
“You’re going to get checked out tomorrow.” Will said.
“Guys I’m fine.” I said.
“This is the second time it happens, Cal” Clint said. “You’re not fine.”
“You need to…” Josh started.
“Babe, can you guys give us a minute?” Will said. Josh and Will exchanged looks, probably having a silent conversation between the two of them.
“Sure, How about I make us some hot chocolate? The paramedics said you needed some sugar in your system.” Josh said. “Clint can help.”
“I can?” Clint said.
“Yup.” Josh said dragging him along to the kitchen.
“What’s going on with you?” Will said.
“Nothing.” I said.
“Cal we tell each other everything and if you don’t tell me you tell Clint and neither of us knew you collapsed at the park weeks ago.” Will said.
“It wasn’t a big deal. I thought I pushed myself to hard and that was it. I didn’t want to worry you and with everything I had going on I just forgot about it.” I said.
He sighed before shaking his head. “You scared the crap out of me.”
“I’m sorry but I promise I’m okay.” I said.
“You’re still getting checked out tomorrow.” He said.
“But…” I started.
“For me?” he said
I sighed. “Okay. I’ll call of tomorrow and I’ll go get checked out.” I said. “And before you even say anything about how we have to be more careful and protect ourselves after this I’m just going to remind you that you once told me that getting mugged in New York is a rite of passage to becoming a real New Yorker.”
“I did say that, but I also said never to use the alley short cut by yourself after dark. Also why are you home so late?” Will asked.
“Work.” I answered.
“Seriously you’re an intern slash lab assistant how could that keep you out until ten at night?” Will said.
“Got caught up doing some paperwork.” I lied. I signed and NDA and Tony trusted me. I wasn’t about to betray that trust.
“You’re spreading yourself out way too thin.” Will said.
“Hot chocolate’s ready.” Josh said coming back to the living room with Clint behind him.
“I’m not. You know I work well under pressure. I can handle it.” I said.
“You sleep four hours a night.” Will said.
“I’m an insomniac.” I said with a shrug. “Whip cream, chocolate shavings and cinnamon. You spoil me.” I told Josh smiling.
“Maybe this is a sign you should slow down a bit.” Clint said.
“And do what?” I asked.
“Relax, have fun, travel?” Will suggested. “Maybe spend some time with a certain lacrosse player in a date like manner?”
“Will, Nate does not like me like that.” I said.
“Yes he does.” Will. Josh and Clint said at the same time.
“Cal the guy’s a Political Science major. All of his classes are in the social sciences building but he goes all the way across campus every day to the Computer Sciences and Engineering building to get coffee because he knows that’s where you’ll be.” Will said.
“I don’t want to date right now.” I said ignoring the comment. “I’m in a really good place. I have an awesome job. I finished one of my majors in under a year, Might actually graduate before I’m twenty. I’m kicking ass and taking names and that’s what I want to focus on right now.”
“You’re eighteen you have your entire life to kick ass and take names.” Will said.
“I know, I’m just getting a head start.” I said sipping my cocoa.
“So you feel nothing for Nate?” Josh said.
“He’s a friend and for now that’s all I’m ready for.” I said putting down my finished cup of cocoa.
“I call bullshit.” Will said.
“What?” I said.
“Will.” Josh said giving him a look.
“Denial’s not just a river in Egypt.” Will said. “I just hope you realize that before it’s too late. Nate’s a really good guy Cal and he’d be good for you.”
“I’m good.” I said getting up hugging Will catching him by surprise. “But thanks for looking out for me. Love you guys.”
I got to my room and face planted onto the mattress. That was the last thing I remember before I dozed off.
“Morning Sunshine.” Tony greeted with a smirk.
“Uh fuck off how are you so functional this early in the morning?” Will groaned.
“Coffee?” Tony offered holding out a cup holder.
“You’re a god.” Will said reaching for it.
“Don’t stroke his ego, if it gets any bigger we’ll choke in here.” I retorted. “Aren’t you supposed to be in Malibu?”
“Aren’t you supposed to visit your doctor when a weird pain doesn’t go away after a while?” Tony retorted.
“I thought it was cramps.” I defended.
“Sharp pain in your right side?” he said.
“Have either of you ever had cramps? Sometimes it’s hard to tell where exactly they’re at when they’re at their peak. You guys don’t understand what it’s like to have a uterus.” I said.
“From now on, you feel a pain you go see a doctor.” Will said.
“I pay for…” Tony started.
“Rise and Shine!” Will said pulling the blinds open making me jump up awake. That was the weirdest dream I’ve ever had. Will and Tony ganging up on me to lecture me about getting checked out.
“Uh, too early.” I groaned.
“No it’s not, we have to go in for a walk in appointment and you also have to call out from work.” Will said and I groaned. I have to tell me boss I lost a not yet released version of his company’s smart phone and tablet.
“I need to borrow your phone. They took mine.” I said.
“You know the code.” Will said handing me his phone. “Clint’s making waffles so hurry up and get up.”
That put a smile on my face. Clint makes the best waffles.
I unlocked Will’s phone and dialed Tony’s personal phone number. He picked up on the third ring, which was surprising considering he never picked up unless he knew the number.
“Mh hello.” He answered obviously still half asleep. Guess that explains why he actually answered.
“Hey, sorry did I wake you?” I asked.
“Sunshine, Did I have a conference call or is Pepper on her way to the tower?” he said sounding alert.
“No Miss Potts is still in Seoul and you’re actually clear for the day. Just calling to ask for the day off.” I said begrudgingly. I could here Josh and Will having a heated discussing in not so soft whispers from the kitchen.
“Trying to get a long weekend?” Tony said.
“I wish, no I just have to take care of some stuff. I’ll explain tomorrow.” I said.
“You’re coming in tomorrow? It’s Saturday.” Tony said.
“Yeah, need to make up the day an help you with the extra paperwork.” I said.
“Cal Waffles are fresh off the iron!” Clint called out.
“Okay, see you tomorrow morning then. I might need you to pick up some things” He said.
“Yeah, that might be an issue. I kind of lost the phone.” I said.
“I’ll get you another one by tomorrow, I’ll send you the list on your tablet.” He said.
“Also lost the tablet.” I said.
“You lost both of them?” He asked.
“Again I’ll explain tomorrow.” I said.
“I’ll email it to you then.” he said.
“That works. Thank you.” I said.
“Don’t worry about it.” he said before hanging up.
I locked the phone and threw the covers off.
“We can’t.” I heard Will whisper harshly as I came out of the room.
“You were supposed to tell…” Josh answered.
“Cal, how you feeling?” Clint greeted ending Josh and Will’s fight.
“Like I could sleep for a few more hours.” I said sitting down.
“Coffee.” He said putting a cup down in front of me.
“I adore you.” I said.
“I bet you say that to the barista at Starbucks too.” Clint said.
“So, what’s with the frowns?” I asked.
“I’m also getting checked out with you today, figured I’d get my physical out of the way and well Josh can’t be there to hold my hand when they take blood.” Will said.
“Work.” Josh said giving Will a look.
“Guess I’ll be filling in.” I said giving Clint a look and he gave me a shrug in return.
“Did your boss give you any trouble?” Will asked.
“He was half asleep, I can just do the paperwork tomorrow.” I said.
“You’re working tomorrow?” Will asked.
“Well yeah…” I said.
“Cal don’t you think now might be a good time to slow down?” Will asked.
“In all the time you’ve known me when have I ever slowed down?” I retorted. “Everyone has some form of stress in their lives Will. I happen to really like my stress and I’m good at working through it.”
“Yesterday you passed out and the time before that you collapsed at the park. Don’t you think there is something seriously wrong going on?” Will said.
“If the doctor doesn’t find anything then we’re good.” I said.
“Why are you so damn stubborn?!” Will chastised.
“Because you’re worrying over nothing.” I said keeping my cool. “I’m gonna get dressed. The earlier we get there the sooner we’re out of there.”
I walked to my room and closed the door behind me, only keeping it open a crack. I had the feeling something was going on because Josh and Will never fight. They play fight and the bicker but never argue.
“Will.” Josh said.
“No okay, not the time.” Will said.
“Then when!?” Josh said shouting.
“Guys, calm down.” Clint said calming them down.
I quickly put on the clothes someone, probably Will had picked out for me. It was a pair of black skinny jeans with a white flowy top and a denim jacket. I slipped on some black leather booties and a maroon hat.
I grabbed my spare bag with my spare wallet and school ID which thankfully I had left at home yesterday if not I would have lost it too.
When I was done I walked out and saw that Josh was gone and Clint and Will were cleaning up.
“Need a hand?” I asked.
“We got it.” Clint said drying his hands.
“You ready?” Will asked.
“Yeah.” I said.
“You guys need a ride?” Clint asked.
“No, we’re going the opposite way.” Will said.
“I don’t mind, I don’t have any meetings and the guys can get started without me.” Clint said.
“Guys, I get that you’re all worried but you need to take a step back. I’m right here, I’m fine, and I’m not going anywhere.” I said.
“I… You…. Uh!!!!” Will shouted. “I can’t anymore. You deal with her.” Will told Clint before walking out of the apartment and slamming the door.
“What’s his deal?” I said.
“Let’s go.” Clint said walking to the fire escape.
“I’m supposed to…” I said.
“Now.” Clint said opening the window and walking out. I sighed before following after him. I ducked my head to slip out but my hat got in the way. I yanked it off and threw it behind me before climbing out and up the stairs. When I was finally on the roof. Clint dragged some heavy patio chairs someone had left up there and set them up before sitting down.
“Sit.” He said.
“Is this really the time…” I started.
“Ass, chair, now.” Clint said sternly.
“Okay.” I said sitting down. It was quiet for a minute and very tense. Clint was staring at me, thinking. Then he wiped his face with his hands and sighed.
“Cal, I love you, we all do but we’re worried about you.” He said.
“Why do I feel like this is an intervention?” I asked.
“You passed out last night…” he started.
“I was in shock.” I defended.
“You collapsed at the park…” he said.
“I over did it.” I said.
“And you kept it a secret?!” he said raising his voice.
“I had it handled.” I said.
“No you don’t!” Clint yelled. “For a genius you are such an idiot! It’s not normal for someone to start choking out of the blue. It’s also not normal to pass out when sitting down on the couch. Do you have any idea how scared I was? How scared Will was?”
“Why do you think I didn’t say anything!?” I shouted. “This is exactly what I was trying to avoid.”
“We’re your friends.” Clint said.
“Yeah but you all have more important things to worry about.” I said.
“Cal we worry about you anyway. You have so much going on with school and work and you’re a zombie half the time but if one of us calls you or is having a bad day you’ll drop everything to check in on us and help. And we’d do the same for you, all you have to do is ask but you don’t.” Clint said.
“I feel fine.” I said and Clint gave me an incredulous look. “I really do, those two incidents aside I haven’t felt the least bit off.”
“Would you tell us if you were?” Clint said.
“I don’t think I’d be able to hide it if I was. Most people crash under pressure and I thrive, it’s how I’ve always been.” I said as Clint’s phone dinged. “Work?”
“Will, wants to know if I finally knocked some sense into you.” Clint said. “You’re getting checked out right?”
“I don’t think Will will let me out of the hospital until a medical professional clears me.” I said.
“He’s worried about you Cal and he’s even more worried because you’re trying to play it off like it’s nothing.” Clint said.
“Is that really all that’s going on?” I asked and he looked at me confused. “I heard Josh and Will fighting. They never fight.”
“That’s between them.” He said standing up. “Come on, you need to get there early and I’m driving you no arguments.”
“Yes dad.” I said sarcastically before I remembered something. “Oh shit dad! I was supposed call him last night.”
“Call him from Will’s phone when you get back and tell him what happened.” Clint said.
“Are you insane, my dad finds out he’ll hire a chauffer and a bodyguard for me.” I said.
“Sometimes I forget you’re rich.” Clint said.
“I’m not rich my family is.” I said.
“Same thing.” Clint said opening the door to lead me out.
We all piled into his truck and made our way to the hospital. We signed in to see if hopefully my doctor had an opening this morning. It was about an hour after we had gotten there that there was a cancellation and he could see us.
“Good morning Miss Adler.” The doctor said.
“Uh, I think you have the wrong file there, I’m Callie Gerard.” I said.
“Oh, my mistake. Just give me a sec,” he said going on his computer and bringing up my file. “Okay, Callie Gerard, eighteen years old no chronic health conditions, walk in. What brings you in today?”
“Well a few weeks ago I was out on a morning run when I started choking and I collapsed out of the blue and then last night I passed out. Though to be fair last night I got mugged and I was a bit shaken so that could have been it.” I said.
“Prior to these two incidents did you ever experience any type of episodes like this?” He asked.
“None.” I said.
“Any family history of depression, anxiety disorders, or heart disease?” He asked.
“No.” I answered.
“Hm.” He said getting up and putting on his stethoscope. “Breathe in for me and out.” I did and then he moved it. “Again. Everything sounds good. So when you were out on your run how exactly did the episode start?”
“Uh I was running and I started feeling out of breath. Then I felt like there was something stuck in my throat. My chest felt tight and I couldn’t breathe. Then it just went away.” I said.
“Did you cough up anything or throw up afterwards?” he asked.
“No.” I answered.
“Open your mouth and stick your tongue out.” He said taking a flash light out. I did as I was told and he looked in before telling me to close. “As far as I can tell you’re perfectly healthy but that episode you had at the park is worrisome. It was probably nothing but just to be on the safe side I want to run a full work up. Blood and urine panel and also a CT. I can get you in today if you’re free.”
“Well I called of from work so may as well get it out of the way.” I said.
“I also recommend you consider seeing a therapist, to get a second opinion. You’re symptoms sound like a panic attack. There may be some underlying issue you need to work on.” He said.
“But physically I’m fine right?” I asked.
“We’ll know for sure after the CT.” He said typing in something into the computer. “Okay I put the order in. head upstairs and they’ll start prepping you.”
“Thank you.” I said before stepping off the exam table. I went back to the waiting room where Will was whispering harshly into his phone. When he saw me he immediately cut the conversation and hung up.
“So?” Will asked.
“I have to go upstairs to get a CT.” I said and immediately I saw Will start to panic. “It’s nothing serious. Everything came up clear but just to be safe they want to run a full work up.”
“Oh.” Will said sounding relieved.
“You okay buddy?” I asked.
“Yeah, uh just you know I hate hospitals.” Will said.
“Then lets get this over with so we can go home.” I said.
“Yeah…” Will said with a grimace.
“Or we can go spend my paycheck.” I said.
“That sounds fun.” Will said with a smirk.
Of course it was around lunchtime when I was finally free and hungry. We made a quick stop to grab a bite to eat before heading to the mall. Most of my closet was picked out by either Will or Rebekah. There were a few tees and tanks that I kept around to lounge in but other than that they were all picked out by them. I’d go with Will to the mall and he’d throw something at me to try on that always fit and looked good on me. Rebekah on the other hand didn’t even bother to ask me. She just bought it and had it shipped to me.
By the time we were done and got home I decided to leave Will and Josh some alone time and went to go help Clint with dinner.
“How was the doctor?” Clint asked as soon as I walked in.
“He said everything looked good. We’re still waiting for the results of the blood and CT but he said I should get those tomorrow.” I said.
“What about us?! Me!?” Josh shouted from across the hall.
“I can’t just turn my back on her!” Will shouted. “She’s family!”
“Oh that’s it.” I said walking out.
“Cal.” Clint said warning me but I ignored him and marched straight down the hall and into the apartment.
“What the hell is going on with you two?” I said.
“Cal this is between us.” Will started.
“No, she should know.” Josh said.
“Know what?” I asked.
“I want us to get our own place.” Josh said.
“What?” I said surprised.
“We’ve been talking about it for a while now.” Will said.
“Then what’s the problem?” I asked not understanding why that would lead to them fighting.
“Will doesn’t want to leave.” Josh said.
“Why not?” I asked.
“Because… because I don’t want you to be alone.” Will admitted.
“Are you kidding me?” I said.
“Cal, you’ve never been on your own and you’re my little sister.” Will said.
“Aww buddy.” I said hugging him. “Stop being an idiot.”
“What the hell Cal?” Will said getting angry.
“Will, you’re about to graduate from Law school, you’re engaged to your dream guy, I saw this coming a long time ago.” I said.
“You want me to leave?” Will said tearing up as he realizing what I was getting at.
“Of course not. You’re my best friend. My brother from another mother. My ride or die.” I said tearing up. “I need to show you something.” I said walking to Will’s desk and grabbed hi laptop. I quickly logged in and opened up browser.
“So I never told you this but my dad pays all the rent and utilities.” I said.
“What?” Will said.
“You know Rebekah and Kol originally lived here. Kol moved out and I moved in. When I moved to New York I took over the lease when Rebekah left. Dad was afraid of me living alone so far away from home so I agreed to get a roommate.” I said.
“So all the rent we’ve been paying you the past couple of years you kept for yourself?” Josh asked.
“No. All the money you guys have been paying for rent and utilities I invested and put into a trust so that when either you decided to move out or you graduated you’d have a little nest egg to get you started.” I said.
“So how little of a nest egg are we talking, a couple grand?” Will asked.
“Uh, about that much.” I said pointing to the screen.
“Oh shit!” Josh said.
“Ah! Wha… How? That’s a lot of zeroes.” Will said.
“Well rent in New York is one of the highest in the country and it’s been good quarter.” I said.
“Cal that’s enough for a down payment on a condo and…the mortgage.” Will said.
“And this isn’t even counting the stocks and bonds you own.” I said.
“I own stock and bonds?” Will asked tearing up.
“I was planning on telling you guys telling you guys the day of your wedding, you know as a gift but I think this is better. Will I get that everything’s changing and you’re afraid but that’s life.”
“What am I going to do without you?” Will said tearing up.
“What are you talking about? You’re never going to lose me. I told you when you moved in that once you had me you were stuck with me for life. And I meant it.” I said.
“But who’s going to take me shopping when I’m sad, and keep me caffeinated when I procrastinate writing an essay, or… or pack me sandwiches with the crust cut off when I have a debate?” Will cried.
“Who’s gonna pick out and lay out my outfits every morning so I always look put together, and who’s gonna wake me up at just the right time so that I can sleep in but still have enough time to catch the train every morning?” I cried.
“You’re the best roommate ever and anyone I ever live with after you will just be a downgrade.” Will cried as he hugged me.
“I love you too babe.” Josh deadpanned.
“I know but at least I know that who you’re moving in with loves you more than anything in the world.” I said. “Besides, you know I’m going to be at your place all the time.”
“I can’t believe this is happening. It’s the end of an era!” Will exclaimed.
“But it’s also the start of a new one, a better one.” I said wiping the tears off my face. “You deserve to be happy Will.”
“We need to celebrate.” Will told Josh. “We’re getting our own place.”
“Yeah we are.” Josh said kissing Will before hugging him. He mouthed a thank you to me and I nodded before walking out so the lovebirds could properly celebrate. I quietly walked out and closed the door behind me before walking back to Clint’s place.
“Everything okay?” Clint said not looking up from where he was stirring the pasta.
“Uh yeah.” I said my voice cracking a bit making him turn around. I could image I looked pretty bad with my red rimmed eyes and red nose. “So Will and Josh are moving out.”
“Did you guys… fight?” Clint said cautiously.
“No.” I said tearing up.
“Then why are you crying?” Clint said trying not to laugh.
“Because I’m going to miss them!” I cried.
“Hey, it’s okay.” Clint said hugging me. “It’s not like you’re never going to see him. And you still have me.”
“It’s not the same.” I cried harder.
“Love you too Cal.” Clint deadpanned as he gently rubbed my back.
The Next Morning-
After we all finally calmed down a bit and Clint finished dinner Will brought out the wine and we started drinking. Then we kept drinking and got drunk while we started reminiscing about all the good times we’ve had since he moved in. Then someone brought out the photo album and we got emotional again. We ended up crying ourselves to sleep on the couch.
Josh woke up just in time for me to get ready for work.
I quickly showered and put on the clothes Will picked out for me. I pulled on the navy and white striped shirtdress and the jean jacket on top. I slipped on the sunglasses to cover up my red eyes before quickly brushing my hair so it looked like I had intentionally made it wavy.
I grabbed my purse and my wallet with the temporary replacement debit card for me. I had called HR yesterday and had them cancel the company credit card and also to ask for them to replace my ID badge. They said someone would have it for me when I showed up this morning.
I quickly stopped by for bagels and the usual coffee orders before heading in. Happy was at the door looking ironically not so happy.
“I think this belongs to you.” He said handing me the new badge.
“Yes. Thank you and sorry about that.” I said quickly putting it on.
“Oh no big deal just everyone’s safety was at stake.” He said sarcastically.
“Well they had you to look after and I’d like to offer my humblest apology in the form of a coffee and bearclaw.” I said offering it to him.
He tried to stay serious but quickly reached for the coffee and donut. “You did a good job following protocol just, try not to let it happen again.” He said.
“Will do.” I said before scanning my badge and heading into the elevator.
“Good morning Miss Adams.” Jarvis said.
“Gerard.” I corrected.
“My apologies miss,” He said before the elevator started moving up and stopped when we reached the lab. I walked in like I always did thinking I was the first person in.
“Morning.” Bruce greeted making me jump a bit.
“Ah! Bruce! Crap you scared me.” I said almost spilling the drinks.
“Sorry.” He said quickly helping me steady myself. “I didn’t know you were coming in today.”
“I wanted to make up for missing yesterday. What are you doing here so early?” I asked.
“I didn’t actually go home. I got caught up with some stuff and then I fell asleep on the futon.” Bruce said rubbing the back of his neck.
“It’s a good thing I made sure your spare clothes were washed then.” I said.
“Thank you.” He said sipping his chai tea.
“So doesn’t Betty get mad when you don’t go home at the end of the day?” I asked.
“She had a Women in science Symposium in Boston this weekend. She’s the Keynote speaker.” He said proudly. I’m watching the live feed.” He said lifting up his phone.
“Aww, she’s sitting next to Julie Freeman.” I said.
“Who’s sitting next to Julie Freeman?” Tony said walking in.
“Oh I was just showing Callie the live feed of Betty’s symposium.” Bruce said.
“You know I could still fly you over to surprise her?” Tony offered.
“Betty’s heading back tonight.” Bruce said.
“Oh. For me?” Tony said pointing at the coffee and bagel.
“Yeah, so what’s on today’s to do list?” I asked. “Ready to get to work.”
“We actually need to talk but first I need you to get rid of the reporter in my room.” Tony said.
“Tony…” Bruce started.
“What’s a reporter…” I started before it clicked. “You know what don’t answer that, plausible deniability. Need me to get her to sign and NDA before I get her out of here?”
“No it’s fine, I have an entire department I pay a ridiculous amount of money to keep this type of thing quiet.” Tony said. “Her clothes should be back from the cleaners by now and hung in the coat closet by the elevator.”
“Cool be back in a bit.” I said walking to the elevator. I wasn’t even in the elevator when I could already hear Bruce talking to Tony, the disapproval obvious in his voice.
“Jarvis is Tony’s guest awake yet?” I asked.
“Miss Everheart has just been woken up as per sir’s sleepover protocol.” Jarvis said.
“Of course he has a protocol for this.” I muttered. I am a bit surprised that in the almost three months I’ve been working here this is the first indication I’ve ever had that Tony was unfaithful to Pepper. He loved Pepper. To each his own I guess. The elevator opened and I headed straight to the coat closet. Sure enough, women’s blouse and pencil skirt straight from the dry cleaners down the street.
“Tony?” I heard a woman call out. I turned the corner and sure enough there was a tall leggy blonde wearing one of Tony’s shirts. I heard her try to open the door to Tony’s private office.
“Restricted Access Area.” Jarvis answered making her jump and yelp in surprise.
“That’s Jarvis, he runs the building.” I said coming into her view.
“Uh, hi sweetie are you lost?” She said forcing herself to sound extra sweet and friendly. She reminded me of all of Kol and Nik’s one night stands that would walk through the house trying to sneak out without being seen.
“No. I work for Mister Stark…” I said maintaining a professional demeanor but she interrupted me.
“I didn’t know Stark Industries hired high school students, is it some sort of mentorship program?“ She asked condescendingly.
“No I’m Mister Stark’s Personal Assistant.” I answered polietly.
“You’re a little young for this don’t you think?” She said.
“Age isn’t a measure for experience.” I answered. “Your clothes have been dry cleaned and pressed and there is a car waiting for you downstairs to take you wherever you’d like.”
“Guess you still don’t have enough experience to be doing other things besides picking up the dry cleaning.” She said.
“But I do have enough experience to take out the trash.” I said with a polite smile. She frowned and yanked the clothes out of my hand before turning to the room to get dressed. I walked into the room and saw a pair of earrings hidden behind the bedside lamp, that I knew weren’t Pepper’s since she kept her clothes and jewelry in the room Tony had converted into her own closet and obviously they weren’t Tony’s.
This was a classic forgetful one-night stand tactic. Nik’s crazy ex used to do this all the time. She’d conveniently forget something when she slept over and used it as an excuse later on to drop by. I quickly picked up the earrings and walked out of the room.
Miss Everheart came out five minutes later slinging her bag over her shoulder. We got in the elevator and headed down to the lobby.
“Can you tell Tony to call me please, so we can schedule a follow up interview?” She said with a smirk.
“Of course.” I said with a smile. She took a few steps before I stopped her. “Miss Everheart?”
“yes?” She said turning around. I walked over and placed her earring in her hand.
“I believe these belong to you.” I said with a smirk. I could see the condescension quickly be replaced by annoyance and anger. “Have a lovely day.” I said before turning around heading back upstairs.
I got in the elevator and walked into the lab where Bruce and Tony were still talking and Bruce was obviously disapproving of what Tony asked me to do.
“So I hope you didn’t want a follow up interview because I made sure she didn’t forget any potential excuses to see you again.” I said.
“No I think she got enough for a spread.” Tony said.
“Are you okay?” Bruce asked.
“Why wouldn’t I be?” I said taking a sip of my coffee and gagging a bit. Uh getting drunk on wine really messed up my stomach.
“You just kicked out your married boss’s one night stand.” Bruce said.
“Bruce I have older brothers, it’s not the first time I’ve had to kick out a clingy one night stand.” I said putting my coffee down.
“See told you she could handle herself. Here.” Tony said handing me a glass of some weird green juice.
“What’s this?” I said.
“Hangover remedy, you look like you could use it.” Tony said.
“What’s in it?” I said eying the thick green juice.
“Relax it’s organic.” Tony said.
I arched an eyebrow and contemplated it for a minute before going for it and taking a sip. It was sour and not that I could taste it I could taste the kale in it along with something I couldn’t quite put my finger on.
“So I got an interesting call yesterday.” Tony said.
“You actually answered your own phone?” I said in mock shock.
“Actually Jarvis did and forwarded it to me. It was the police asking me about a prototype Stark phone that was reported stolen Thursday night.” Tony said.
Oh shit.
“They wanted to know if there was any way to track it and the tablet that was stolen. Said it was registered to one of my employees. You wouldn’t happen to know anything about that would you?” he said already knowing the answer.
“I was going to tell you but I figured this would go over better in person. That and I had Will and Clint freaking out over the fact that I got mugged and passed out.” I said.
“You passed out?” Bruce said.
“I was in shock it happens. I went to the doctor’s yesterday and got checked out. He said everything looked good but we’re still waiting on the blood work and CT to know for sure.” I said.
“CT? Isn’t that a bit extreme for shock?” Tony asked.
“There may have been an incident a few weeks ago where I collapsed on my morning run and couldn’t breathe.” I said.
“Callie!” Tony and Bruce shouted.
“I’m fine I swear. Stop worrying.” I said.
“Here.” Tony said throwing me some car keys.
“Need me to get your car detailed again?” I asked.
“No that’s your car.” Tony said.
“What?” I asked.
“Your car. You know four wheels and an engine, I got you the coupe but I can trade it in for the…” Tony said.
“I know what a car is Tony. Thank you but no.” I said sliding the keys over to him.
“No take backs.” He said.
“Then I guess its staying there because I’m not taking it.” I said.
“Kid take the car.” Tony said.
“No, I’m not taking it. Tony I don’t need a car.” I said.
“You got mugged.” Tony said.
“It’s New York, I wasn’t the first person to get mugged and I’m sure I won’t be the last.” I said.
“Well this is to make sure that it doesn’t happen to you again.” Tony said.
“I’m not taking the car Tony, end of discussion.” I said.
“No, as your boss I’m ordering you to take the car. Think of it as a company car.” Tony said.
“Two things one we’re in a free country. You don’t own me and you can’t force me to do anything against my will. You’re my boss and you assign me duties of which I have a right to turn down if I am not comfortable or feel it violates my rights, it says so in the fourth paragraph, second sentence of my employment contract. And two I’m an intern and this is only a part time position I don’t qualify for a company car.” I said. “Now if that’s everything I’m going to get started on that paperwork I was supposed to do yesterday.”
“Sunshine it’s just a car. Think of it as an early birthday present.” Tony said.
“Tony I don’t even let my dad buy me a car much less my boss slash friend, so no.” I said.
“Why are you so damn stubborn? It’s just a car, no strings attached. It’s not like I can’t afford another one.” Tony said.
“No means no.” I said.
“Take the car.” Tony said.
“You’re really not used to being told no are you?” I asked.
“Give me one good reason why you can’t take the car.” Tony said.
“Parking is hell, knowing you its probably some really expensive sports car, and it’s completely unprofessional.” I said.
“I’ll pay for parking or any citations you may get, it’s a tax write off and I’m not giving you the car as your boss I’m giving it to you as a friend.” Tony debated. “Take the car.”
“No thank you.” I said picking up the files and going over to my desk.
“You’re impossible!” Tony said before storming out of the lab.
“I’m not being unreasonable about this.” I told Bruce.
“Cal, you’ve been here long enough to know that Tony can be…” Bruce said not knowing the word to use.
“A bit much, eccentric, hyperactive…” I started.
“Yes he’s all of that.” Bruce said. “But you know he doesn’t really open up to a lot of people. The showboating and money flaunting is a front he puts up for the rest of the public.”
“I know that and he’s a great person and boss I just don’t feel comfortable taking a handout.” I said.
“Tony doesn’t see it as a handout he sees it as helping one of his closest friends stay safe. It’s how he shows he cares.” Bruce said.
“But I feel guilty.” I said.
“Then talk to him about it.” Bruce said as my phone started ringing.
“I have to take this. It’s my doctor’s office.” I said.
Later that day-
“Cal?” Tony asked.
“Hm?” I hummed looking up from the paperwork I was filling out.
“You want to call it a day?” Tony asked.
“It’s barely one.” I said.
“On a Saturday. I’m sure there’s something you’d rather be doing besides paperwork.” Tony said.
“Not really.” I said. “I guess I could go home and enjoy whatever time I have left with Will.”
“You probably won’t be able to spend as much time together once he’s married.” Tony said.
“That doesn’t really seem to stop you.” I said without thinking.
“Guessing there’s something you want to say to me.” Tony said.
“It’s your life, you can do whatever you want though a reporter is probably not the best choice for a one night stand.” I said.
“Noted.” Tony said still annoyed at me for not taking the car.
“And I appreciate what you’re trying to do but the answer is still no.” I said.
“Have you always been this stubborn?” Tony asked.
“I could ask you the same thing.” I said.
“You didn’t have a problem taking the phone or the tablet.” Tony said.
“Because those are actual job requirements the car is just something you’re giving me for no good reason.” I said.
“Cal you were mugged walking home from work. I’m concerned for your safety.” Tony said.
“I live in the upper west side as far as New York goes it’s as safe as it gets. I’m a big girl Tony I can take care of myself.” I said.
“Is that why you forgot to go get checked out for weeks after you passed out at the park and your best friends had to drag you to see a doctor?” Tony said.
“Aren’t you the one that forgets basic human need like eating or sleeping unless someone reminds him?” I retorted.
“I’ll take regular breaks and eat regularly if you take the car, deal?” Tony offered.
“No deal because eating and sleeping don’t cost over a hundred and thirty thousand dollars.” I said.
“I’m worth over thirteen billion dollars. If you want to calculate how much my time costs you know it wouldn’t take that long for me to make back what I spent on the car. It would probably be less than the time we’ve spent arguing about this so take the car.” Tony said.
“I said it once and I’ll say it again no.” I said putting down the file I was working on. “We’re officially all caught up. I’m heading out.”
“You can get there faster in the car.” Tony said.
“Not happening.” I said.
“Calliope!” Tony whined.
“You know what, we’re ending this once and for all. Put on a baseball cap and your aviators.” I said.
“What?” Tony asked.
“You heard me. You’re so afraid of the big bad world but when was the last time you set foot outside this tower without a bodyguard?” I asked.
“That’s not the same as you know it.” Tony said.
“Spoken like a true one percenter.” I said.
“I’m sorry doesn’t your family own one of the biggest importing companies in the country?” Tony retorted.
“That’s them not me.” I said. “Don’t try to weasel your way out of this. You think I’m in so much danger how about you take the subway and come over to my place for lunch that’ll show you that there’s nothing dangerous about traveling without a car.”
“The subway? Haven’t you seen that dateline documentary about how dirty…” Tony started.
“All I’m hearing are excuses.” I said.
“Fine, let’s go.” Tony said.
“Okay then.” I said grabbing my purse and my jacket.