#11 - "A Night on the Town"

Once more I was staring at myself in the mirror. I seemed to be doing that a lot as of late. With this new Director of Operations position I had taken with CII, an upgrade in my wardrobe was a must. First Sheryl Campbell had helped me by purchasing a pair of outfits from the noted fashion designer Georgio. Later, Gwen Kingston, better known as the Enchantress had helped pick out a few more outfits.

But on this particular instance I wasn't dressing for the business world. There were no executives to impress, no board meetings to attend or any other business function. No corporate glare of any type. On this occasion, I had the opportunity to let my hair down. Tonight, I was dressing for pleasure.

The day had already been a long and eventful one. With any luck, the night would be as equally interesting. Today had been my first one as an official executive. It was a day filled with many surprises and firsts.

My first surprise was finding out that I had been assigned a personal assistant. Tom Braden was his name and he was on the attractive side. I never even gave it a thought to all the things that went along with the new position, such as having a regular office and my own girl Friday. Or rather in my case: my guy Friday.

This new development was only going to complicate my life. It had been my intent to work out of my apartment instead of an office. That way I could slip away to change into the Scarlet Sabre as necessary. Or I could spend some time in the lab tinkering with my latest innovation. With Tom around all of that was going to be rather difficult.

Now, don't get me wrong. I have nothing against Tom himself. It's the idea of being saddled with someone that's going to make my life difficult. After all, I already have Jaime to handle any task Tom would be dealing with. She could do his job and do it faster, along with juggling dozens of other things. In short, it was redundant for me to have a personal assistant.

But, alas, the position requires having a personal assistant and an office. Without either of them, it would cast suspicions upon myself that could also lead to questions I don't want to answer coming my way. I always hated secret identity issues and this whole situation was shaping up to be one big headache.

As I was saying, I have nothing against Tom himself. He seems like a very nice guy, bright and personable. Thus far he has done the job perfectly, and in that aspect I can't really complain about him. After all, I probably could have gotten some one much, much worse.

Tom was only the first surprise of the day, and only the first man to enter my life. The next was a dreamboat named Kyle Sherwood. Kyle was a contract manager for CII and among his portfolio were the dealings between CII and Henderson Electronics. Since much of my computer work is standard on the HE computer line, it looked like I was going to be spending even more time around Kyle.

There was an instant attraction between us. Kyle had the look of a California surfer: boyish good looks, bushy blonde hair, deep blue eyes, and a golden just out of the oven tan. Talk about a winning combination! And boy was he smooth and easy to talk to. It had been a long time since I had this deep of a connection with any man. Kyle was definitely someone I wanted to get to know better.

So anyway, Kyle was man number two to enter my life on this day. To get an idea of what man number three was like, think of someone the exact opposite of Kyle and Tom. Yeah, I agree. That's a pretty frightening thought! It's enough to make me seriously consider becoming an old maid.

None other than Fuergeson the Great was man number three. He's the loony mad scientist would had very nearly destroyed Tyler Labs last week. Thankfully, Muskateer and myself were on hand to thwart his evil and demented schemes. Unfortunately, Director Shuttleworth was mysteriously killed during the attack. It was this incident that set in motion the process that led to me becoming an executive and in this secret identity pickle. (Editor's Note: Fuergeson attacked Tyler Labs in Muskateer #19-20.)

Anyway, I'm getting side tracked again. Earlier this afternoon the press conference announcing the new HE4000 line featuring my latest Lore chip was held. Donald Henderson, owner of Henderson Electronics, was on hand. Of course Kyle was there as this was his account. Tom was present as well.

So, Donald Henderson has made his presentation when I stepped up to the microphone. I manage to get a couple of words out of my mouth when Fuergeson and his goons show up! Seems he got this nutty notion that I should play Empress to his Emperor of Technology. That's right-- Fuergeson wanted me to marry him! As I said, that's a pretty frightening thought!

On the one hand, I suppose I should have been flattered. Fuergeson declared me one of the most intelligent and gifted scientists in the world today. Not to mention one of the better-looking ones as well. But this is Fuergeson we're talking about here! Ick!

Naturally, here I was miles away from my costume and my lightsabre! What's a girl to do? How do I get out of this jam without revealing my secret identity? I can't help but wonder if other heroines get into these kinds of situations or am I special?

Miraculously, I didn't have to go public. Sheryl had Microwave playing guardian angel for me. I guess she figured that the robot attack the night before might have been directed at me. After all, those robots did do damage to my apartment. Jaime and I figured that they were after my technology, not my body!

Microwave went on the attack and that give Kyle time to get me to safety. It was during the fight that mystery man number four made his debut. He wore black and silver armor and called himself Starguard. He claimed that I, Jessica Flynn that is, was under his personal protection!

Talk about double shots coming from left field! First Fuergeson and his wedding proposal at gunpoint and then some unknown hero coming to my rescue! Could this day possibly get any stranger?

This Starguard fellow appeared to create weapons out of pure energy. He conjured up a mace and went to work on Fuergy and his boys. Between him and Microwave, the bad guys were overwhelmed and I left Fuergy at the altar. The clown never even brought me flowers or a ring!

Just as fast as he appeared, Starguard vanished once more. Looks like my guardian angel had the mystery man act down pat. Still, I couldn't help but wonder who he was and why I was under his personal protection. That was one mystery that had me going. All I knew, I was going to be very disappointed if it was just another obsessed loony like Fuergeson.

As you can see, it wasn't exactly your typical 'first day as an executive' sort of day. Nope, not at all. After all the excitement, Kyle asked me out to dinner and without any encouragement, I accepted. I mean, really. Who wouldn't?

So as I was saying earlier, tonight I was dressing for pleasure as Kyle was taking me out to dinner. Unlike my forays into the business world, I did have suitable clothes to wear. Granted, they hadn't been worn for a while now, but I had them.

I left the evening's plans in the capable hands of Kyle. He warned me to dress in something elegant, leading me believe that we'd be going to some classy establishment. After all, when we were flirting with each other he did mention that it was easier to impress an attractive woman by taking her to an expensive restaurant than a burger joint. No golden arches for me tonight!

To that end, I left the office early to get ready. After what had happened at the press conference, I figured I deserved it. I bathed and got myself ready for the evening to come. New nail polish was painted on, red of course, as it's my favorite color. I even restyled my hair into something a bit more sophisticated than normal.

I slipped into an expensive pair of hosiery and picked out my dress for the evening. It was strapless dark red evening gown that fell down to my ankles. It had a respectable neckline that did leave some things to the imagination. The dress was a bit snug, but still felt pretty good to wear. I guess Jaime was right about me gaining weight. Matching strappy mid-sized heels finished the ensemble.

Since I had gone this far, might as well go all the way and break out the jewelry collection. I've never been one of those women to go nuts with accessories such as jewelry, but it does have it uses. A pearl necklace was added, along with earrings and a few bracelets. Nothing too outlandish or gaudy there.

Now to add a little make up to finish up the effect. Honestly, some girls just don't know when to quit when it comes to makeup. Just some lipstick and highlighting for color. My favorite perfume is added as well. There, all dressed and waiting for my date to arrive!

I've got about ten more minutes before Kyle is due. I sure hope that he's on time. Punctuality is one of those things I like in man. Given the existence of Jaime, reliability is normal for me.

My thoughts on the evening to come were interrupted by a light rapping on my apartment door. Maybe Kyle was early? I told him to pick me up in front of the building, but maybe he's doing the gentlemanly thing by coming to my door?

"It's Beth," Jaime sent to me. Naturally, she had been monitoring what was going on in the CII installation. You never knew when Fuergeson was going to try something again. I mean he did seem pretty obsessed with me if he's tried twice to spirit me away.

"Come on in, Beth," I shouted in response to the knocking. Beth was my best friend on the Freedom League. She was Microwave of course, as M-Wave was the only other woman on the team. That sort of narrowed it all down.

Beth let herself in and joined me in the bedroom. There was a big grin on her face when she saw the way I was dressed.

"Aren't we looking sharp tonight!", Beth said in an excited voice. "Looks like someone's got a big date."

"Yeah, Kyle is taking me out to dinner."

"Well, good for you!" Beth had been one to nag me about going out on dates more often. It seems that married people go out of their way to get us single folk hitched up. "Kyle certainly seems to be one fine specimen of a man."

"You've noticed?"

"Jess, I may be married, but I'm not dead", Beth chastised back with a grin. "Those kind of looks will always get you noticed. He's certainly someone I'd make a play for if I were still single."

"I guess that's one less competitor for me then", I responded with a laugh. "I just hope that he's not as shallow as guys like him can be. That would be a real disappointment."

"There's only one way to find out and you've taken that first step. I'm very happy that you're going out on a date, Jessica. It'll do you a world of good."

"It can't hurt, at any rate," I admitted. "It's been a long time since I spent a night out on the town without wearing a costume. Oh, and thanks for driving Fuergeson off this afternoon. I thought I was going to be married to that loon by this time."

"Like I said, Sheryl asked me to keep tabs on you during the press conference," Beth explained. "I'm just glad that I was there to help out. What I want to know is who was that Starguard fellow?"

"We haven't been able to find a shred of evidence on Starguard," I reported. "It just seems like he popped out of nowhere to be my protector."

"I think you should be extra cautious until Fuergeson is behind bars and we find out what this Starguard's story is. You never can be too careful."

"You're probably right, Beth," I agreed. "If I had any sense I would be staying home where it's safe instead of going out on a date."

"Perhaps, but it was already public knowledge that you were going to be at that press conference. That's probably how Fuergeson knew you were going to be there. I think your date with Kyle will be safe."

"I think I'll carry a spare sabre in my handbag just to be on the safe side. Like you said, you never can be too careful."

"At any rate, I'll want all the juicy details about your date with Kyle tomorrow," Beth informed me. "I'm sure you're going to have a great time."

"Thanks," I politely responded. "I have to admit that it's been a long time since I've been this excited about a date. I'm really looking forward to it."

"Good for you! Well, I should be getting myself home. Have fantastic evening, Jess."

"I will. Thanks."

I waited a few more minutes in the apartment before making my way downstairs and out to the front of the building. Now, I know, I should have waited inside the apartment. That probably would have been the proper thing. But, I'd just as soon not have Kyle see my apartment given that it was trashed by Fuergeson's robots less than twenty four hours ago.

This was just another thing to complicate my life. Before it never was a big deal living next to my lab. I wasn't expecting that many guests and never thought I'd be doing serious entertaining. But a great many things have changed in my life. Maybe I should look into getting myself a place of my own. I was still living like I was in college.

I stood just inside the front door waiting for Kyle to arrive. According to Jaime's calculations he should be here in a couple of seconds. She had noted his progress through the plant via the security cameras. I took a couple of deep breaths to relax. Honestly, I hadn't been this nervous about going out on a date since I was in high school!

"I think you're in for one heck of a surprise when it comes to Kyle's car," Jaime sent to me.

"What kind of a surprise?"

"A pleasant one." And Jaime let it hang at that leaving me to guess just what her cryptic message was supposed to mean.

The answer was obvious a moment later, as Kyle pulled up in a shiny red RX-7. The vehicle was most familiar to me, as I owned one myself. Same color even. The one extravagance that I allowed myself was a stylish sportscar. I've made a sizeable amount of money from my computer innovations over the years. Enough to live rather comfortably but I've saved more than I ever spent. My father's influence more than anything.

Kyle's machine looked like it had been driven right off the lot. Nice and clean with a mirror-like finish. Were I to guess, his was a few years newer than mine. I couldn't help but smile. He liked the same kind of cars as I did. I opened the door to my building and stepped out.

Putting the sports car into park, Kyle emerged from his vehicle and circled around to greet me. "Jessica!", he called out. Kyle's appearance was quite stylish as well. He was wearing a perfectly fitting tux. "Allow me to compliment you on your dress. It's quite becoming."

"Thank you," I responded with a smile. "You're looking pretty good yourself."

He produced a single red rose from behind his back and offered it to me. "For you."

I was momentarily surprised, but accepted the flower. I took the prerequisite smell to sample its fragrance. I think just about anyone who receives flowers does that. Almost a built in automatic response. The flower was quite fragrant.

"It's lovely," I said. "Thank you very much."

"A beautiful rose for a beautiful woman."

At that point I couldn't help but blush. "Keep it up Mr. Sherwood, and my face will be as red as your car."

Kyle smiled at my comment. He offered his hand to me. "Shall we get the evening started?"

"By all means." I accepted Kyle's hand and he gallantly led me to the car. He opened the door and then closed it once I was seated inside. So far he was being a perfect gentleman.

While Kyle walked around to the driver's side of the car, I checked out the interior. The inside was just as immaculate as the outside. Everything was clean and shiny. He did have the prerequisite playboy air freshener hanging from the mirror. I guess I should have expected that. At least he didn't have a pair of fuzzy dice. Kyle took his place behind the wheel and we were off.

"I just love your car," I told Kyle. "In fact, I have one just like it. Right down to the very same color."

"That's an amazing coincidence," Kyle said with a laugh. "Or perhaps just a reflection of excellent taste?"

"You know, I like the way you think."

"To be truthful, Jessica, you didn't strike me as the type to drive something like this," Kyle stated as we drove along.

"Why not?"

Kyle paused a moment as if to gather his thoughts. After all, his answer could have lasting repercussions. Let's just see how smooth he really was.

"From what I know of you, Jessica, you seem like a down to earth, practical type of woman. Not someone who would typically buy a sportscar like this. You strike me more as a substance over style person."

I just smiled at Kyle as he explained. I guess I could see his point to an extent. Out in public and social situations as Jessica I tended to be more sedate than normal. As the Scarlet Sabre I tended to be more like my smart-alecky self. That's not to say that I was the dull, workaholic type who didn't know how to have fun. I was just a little more casual and laid back as Jessica was all. I still knew how to have a good time.

"I guess that just goes to show that you don't know everything about me," I sweetly explained. Keep'em guessing, I always say!

The conversation was light as we drove along. From the route Kyle was taking, it was apparent that our destination was Manhattan. There were literally hundreds of classy restaurants to choose from there. In the past I might have tried to guess which one he was going to based on the direction we were traveling. But in this case I didn't bother. I was enjoying myself too much to worry about such trivial things. For once, I'll just let it be a surprise. Live for the moment and all that.

Kyle's choice was La Caravelle, a four-star establishment serving French cuisine. I had heard of the place, but had never eaten there myself. I'm more of a meat and potatoes type of person, but it never hurts to try something different once in a while. Jaime accessed a French to English database to handle any translations that might be required. Wouldn't want to accidentally order something gross after all!

In short order, we were inside and seated at our table. Kyle seemed to be on a first name basis with the staff here. Obviously, he had been here many times before. It wouldn't surprise me in the least if Kyle did most of his work in places like this. Power lunches and all that. Cocktails were ordered and we continued our conversation.

Kyle leaned closer towards me and put his hand on top of mine. He looked at me with those blue eyes of his. They were hard to resist.

"So tell me about Jessica Flynn," he said charmingly. "For someone so important to the company, very little is known about you. Surely, there is more to you than meets the eye."

"There's really not a whole lot to tell," I quickly answered. After all, there was a reason not much was known about me!

"Come now, you're just being modest. Everyone has a story to tell. You don't rise to the pinnacle of your profession by dumb luck alone."

"Some dumb luck doesn't hurt," I countered. After all, if it weren't for the accident that created Jaime, I wouldn't be where I was today. I had a talent for computers before the accident, but a much greater understanding afterwards. Jaime certainly made sure of that.

"No it doesn't, but that alone would not allow someone to make hundred of millions of dollars for their employer. I would imagine that you've earned some sizeable rewards for your hard work."

I was wondering how long it was going to take Kyle to bring up money. "I really can't complain in that aspect. Sheryl has been most generous. I am comfortable with my place in life. Sure, I've had better offers, but money isn't everything."

"Bite your tongue, Ms. Flynn," Kyle gently chastised. "In the game of life, money is the standard by which one measures their success. The bigger your horde, the better you've done."

"I guess that's why you're a contract manager and negotiator. You've got the drive to succeed." Boy, did he have the drive to succeed! Perhaps a bit too much of it.

"I admit that I enjoy the gamesmanship with the art of the deal. Although a good deal benefits both parties. I'll be the first to admit that I love my job. I get to travel the world, meet interesting people, dine in the finest establishments, and date beautiful women. Present company included, of course."

"You're quick with the compliments as well," I smiled back.

"Don't sell yourself short, Jessica. You're among the rarest of all women. Someone with looks who is also very intelligent. It's a very seductive combination. You're definitely someone I'd like to get to know much better."

"We might be able to start our own mutual admiration society at this rate," a said with a small laugh. As I said before, I definitely wanted to know more about Mr. Sherwood. "So, you want to know more about me?"

"Of course I do. Where did you grow up? What kind of family life did you have? I'm sure it must be fascinating."

"Sorry to disappoint you, but my background is rather ordinary. I grew up in Clear Spring, Indiana. My parents have a farm there."

That development momentarily stunned Kyle into silence. "I never would have taken you for a farm girl," he said after a pause. From the looks if it, he nearly choked on his drink. "Obviously, you've risen above such humble beginnings."

"As I said earlier, you don't know everything about me," I sweetly smiled in return. "But, yes, I grew up on a farm. They raise corn primarily, along with several other crops. If I gained anything from my parents, it was a very strong work ethic."

"I can see where such a thing would be an advantage, no matter what field of business one was in."

"Fortunately, I was very good with math and science and had a strong in aptitude for computers. I had grades good enough to get accepted at MIT. As they say, the rest is history."

"And quite the financial windfall," Kyle added with a laugh. Him and his obsession about money. It made me wonder if he was more interested in my bank account than myself. I tried to put that thought out of my mind. That would be quite disappointing. It really wasn't a big issue as most of my money was tied up in various savings plans. I keep enough on hand to handle just about any expense that would arise.

"My folks still run the farm, although I don't get to visit nearly as much as I should. Usually just Thanksgiving and Christmas. My older brother Oliver now co-runs the farm with our dad. I have a younger brother who's a senior in High School and younger sister as well. And that's the lowdown on the Flynn clan."

I paused to take a sip of my drink. By now the appetizers had been brought to the table. "So, Mr. Sherwood, what's you're story? How did you end up where you are today?"

"I took a far more traditional route, I assure you," Kyle explained. "I grew up in Los Angles and just loved the beach."

"That doesn't surprise me in the least. In fact, when I first met you I thought you looked like the prototypical California surfer. Right out of all those Beach Boy songs."

Kyle chuckled in response to that. "I get that all the time. It usually does work to my advantage. Especially when it comes to the ladies."

"It certainly does grab one's attention," I smiled back. No lie there!

"It can help in breaking the ice. I have this gift when it comes to dealing with people, be it socially or professional. That led me to becoming a salesmen and I've worked up the ladder from there. A CII recruiter offered me a position with a company a few years back and I've continued on up the corporate ladder since then."

That information pretty much agreed with what Jaime had uncovered from her data search. Naturally, she had checked up on our Mr. Sherwood. Mainly to find out more about him. It was pretty much a standard procedure run on anyone who entered into my life. One could never be too careful in this day and age.

Kyle Sherwood had an impressive track record with CII. His wheeling and dealings had brought a great deal of opportunities to the company. It was easy to understand how he had risen so far so fast. Before too long, he would be running that part of the company or maybe striking out on his own.

"What I do find intriguing," Kyle continued, "is why a respected scientist such as yourself would choose to become involved in management. Are things becoming a little bit dull for you in the lab? I figured that you'd be hard at work on your next Lore computer chip."

"There won't be another Lore chip," I stated matter of factually before taking a sip of my drink. "So there wasn't much to keep in the lab at the moment. I guess I wanted a new challenge."

Kyle's jaw literally dropped in stunned shock. Perhaps I should have chosen my words a bit more carefully. Maybe he was planning to retire on the earnings from the next Lore chip. "What do you mean there won't be another Lore chip? We can't let our competitors get ahead of us in this field, Jessica! There's a great deal of money at stake here. Perhaps even the fortunes of the company itself!"

"It's not that bad, Kyle," I casually responded. "You're really overreacting."

"Over reacting? Do you realize how much your work means to the company? To Ms. Campbell? To the workers in the chip manufacturing division?"

"Actually, yes I do. But instead of worrying about the bottom line, you should hear out my reasons for not making another Lore chip."

"Please, do enlighten me."

"The Lore 3000 chip is the most advanced computer chip that can be built given the current limitations of technology. I can't design a better, more efficient chip so there is no need for a Lore 4000."

"I don't quite follow you," Kyle stammered out. A confused look locked on his face. "What limits of technology are you speaking of?"

"It has to do with the silicon that microcircuits are imprinted upon. With the Lore 3000, we've reached the limitations of silicon. Circuitry cannot possibly be made any smaller than with my chip. So, that means that computers will not be able to run any faster unless a substitute for silicon can be found."

"So, all we need to do is find a substance to replace silicon then?"

"Not necessarily, although R&D is looking into that right now. There is a radical idea going around in various scientific circles. I'm looking into it myself. Should this theory prove viable, then we would be able to make computers far more powerful than anything existing today."

"That's a relief," Kyle sighed. The color started to return to his face. "You had me convinced that you were giving up on computers completely. So how do these new computers of your work? What makes then so different from today's machines?

"I could explain it to you, but unless you have a grasp of quantum mechanics it would probably be gibberish."

"Unless it's a place that repairs automobiles, then I have no idea what quantum mechanics are," Kyle said with a mesmerizing smile. I couldn't help put laugh at his little joke. Not that it was so funny, but rather so unexpected. "I'll simply take your word on the subject. I think that's enough shoptalk. After all, this is supposed to be a date, not a business meeting."

"Here, here! No more talk of business for the rest of the evening. Let's talk about us," I suggested with a smile.

It was nearly two AM when Kyle pulled up in front of my building. True to our vow, no more business matters were discussed the rest of the evening. After dinner, we stopped off at a club for a few drinks and some close dancing. That latter part was very enjoyable. Having Kyle hold me close was almost heavenly. It was the kind of feeling I hadn't felt in a long time.

Kyle emerged from the car and quickly moved around to open up my door. He offered his hand and helped me out of the car. Not that I really needed help, but it was the gallant thing to do. It was wonderful to be the focal point of his attention. Made me feel very special inside.

I have to admit that the date had gone far better than I could have hoped. I did have some doubts about Kyle and his motives at first. Was he one of those playboy types who went through women like Kleenex? Could he have some other motive for trying to get to know me? I know, that's not the nicest thing to think about, but it is necessary. Trust is not something I give that easily.

But all in all, Kyle had come through with flying colors. He was gallant, he was charming, and God was he gorgeous. Jessica, my girl, you might have just landed yourself one catch of a man.

"I want to thank you for such a delightful evening," Kyle stated as he helped me out of the car. "It was most memorable."

"I had a wonderful time," I told him back. "I wish it hadn't ended so soon."

"Perhaps we can do this again some other evening?"

"I think I would like that very much," I truthfully answered. A short pause followed. It was as if either one of us couldn't think of any thing to say. "I'd invite you upstairs, but like I said, my apartment got tore up during the robot attack last night. I'd be a bit ashamed to show it off."

"I could take a rain check, Jessica," Kyle offered as he flashed his winning smile. "It is late and morning will come far too soon."

"I guess this is goodnight then. Thank you for everything."

"No, dear lady, thank you." Kyle gallant kissed my hand. I swear my body temperature rose three degrees during that!

Our eyes meet and I was lost in those enchanting orbs. Before I truly realized what was going on, our lips moved closer and met. We shared a lingering kiss that I never wanted to come to an end. But as the saying goes, all good things come to an end. Before I knew what was happening, our lips separated and Kyle had moved back towards his car.

"Until the next time," he announced as he opened up his car door. "Sweet dreams, Jessica."

I imagine I must have looked like the ogling schoolgirl with a crush at that point. I stood there and just barely managed to say "goodbye" before Kyle drove off. His car was out of sight by the time I came back to my senses. Jaime talking to me helped me break out of my stupor.

I quickly made my way up to my apartment and stepped inside. I closed the door behind me and leaned back against the door. I would imagine that a dreamy look was locked on my face.

"I told you that you needed to go out more," Jaime sent me; although at this point I wasn't really paying much attention to her. "All in all, I'd say that it was a perfect evening."

"Yes, yes it was," I finally answered. "Jaime, I think I'm in love."