BEFORE DISASTER

-LOCATION: LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA-

Lois Lane strode confidently into the bustling lobby of Stark Industries, the only company that rivaled Wayne Enterprises. Her determined expression was matched by the speed of her pace, as Jimmy Olsen followed closely behind, struggling to keep up while juggling his camera.The lobby was a marvel of modern architecture glass walls, sleek metal finishes, and an expansive view of the city. Employees and visitors moved through the space with purpose, adding to the sense of urgency that filled the air.Lois scanned the room, her eyes narrowing as she spotted her target: Alexander Stark, the enigmatic and charismatic owner of Stark Industries. He was walking towards the elevator, flanked by a group of executives, his presence commanding the attention of everyone around him.Lois: (urgently) Jimmy, keep that camera ready.Jimmy: (breathless) Got it, Lois.Lois picked up her pace, her heels clicking rapidly against the polished floor. She raised her voice to cut through the noise of the lobby.Lois: Wait! Mr. Stark!Alexander Stark paused mid-step, turning to look back with a mixture of curiosity and mild irritation. His sharp features and piercing blue eyes locked onto Lois as the crowd around him parted slightly, giving him a clear view of the determined reporter making her way toward him.Alexander: (raising an eyebrow) Huh? Some reporter??Lois reached him, slightly out of breath but her resolve unwavering. She flashed her press badge, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of professionalism and determination.Lois: Lois Lane, Daily Planet. I have a few questions for you, Mr. Stark. Do you have a moment?Alexander glanced at his watch, then back at Lois. He seemed to weigh his options for a moment before giving a small, resigned nod.Alexander: (sighing) Alright, Ms. Lane. You have two minutes. Make them count.Lois nodded, signaling Jimmy to start recording.Lois: (quickly) First question! Stark Industries has recently announced several groundbreaking advancements in technology that seem to rival those of Wayne Enterprises. Can you comment on the nature of this rivalry and what it means for the future of your company?Alexander's expression shifted to one of mild amusement, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.Alexander: (smirking) Well, Ms. Lane, competition drives innovation. Wayne Enterprises has been a formidable competitor, but at Stark Industries, we believe in pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Our focus is on creating technologies that not only meet the demands of today but also pave the way for the future.Lois undeterred by his dismissive tone, reached him, slightly out of breath but with a determined look in her eyes.Losi: Second question! There are rumors circulating about you and Bryce Wayne, the owner of Wayne Enterprises. Are you two dating?Alexander chuckled, shaking his head.Alexander: (amused) Dating? No, that's not true at all.Lois, sensing an opportunity, pressed on.Lois: (persistently) So there's nothing going on between you two?Alexander crossed his arms, a confident smile playing on his lips.Alexander: (calmly) Absolutely not. Bryce Wayne and I are strictly business rivals. There's no romantic involvement whatsoever.Jimmy, capturing the exchange on camera, zoomed in on Alexander's face to catch every nuance of his expression. Lois, not satisfied with the straightforward answer, tried a different angle.Lois: (inquiringly) But there have been sightings of you two together at several events. How do you explain that?Alexander shrugged nonchalantly.Alexander: (explaining) We're both influential figures in our industries. It's only natural that we'd cross paths at high-profile events. But I assure you, it's all professional.Lois glanced at Jimmy, who gave her a slight nod, indicating he got the shot. She turned back to Alexander, her curiosity piqued.Lois: (probing) So, it's just a coincidence that Stark Industries and Wayne Enterprises are often in competition?Alexander's smile widened, a glint of amusement in his eyes.Alexander: (confidently) Not a coincidence, Ms. Lane. It's the nature of business. Competition drives innovation. Bryce Wayne and I both know that well.Lois nodded, acknowledging his point but still unsatisfied.Lois: (persistently) Third question, Mr. Stark. Is there any truth to the rumors that Stark Industries and Wayne Enterprises might collaborate on future projects?Alexander's expression grew more serious.Alexander: (thoughtfully) While collaboration isn't off the table, it's not something that's currently in the works. For now, we're focused on our own paths.Before Lois could ask another question, Alexander's assistant approached, reminding him of his next appointment.Assistant: Mr. Stark, your meeting is about to start.Alexander: (nodding) Thank you. Miss Lane, it's been a pleasure. We'll have to continue this conversation another time.Lois smiled, satisfied with the interaction and knowing she had enough material for a great story.Lois: Thank you, Mr. Stark. I look forward to it.As Alexander walked away, Lois turned to Jimmy, who was still recording.Lois: (smiling) Got it all, Jimmy?Jimmy: (grinning) Got everything we need, Lois?Lois: (smiling) Absolutely. Let's get this back to the Planet.Lois glanced back at Alexander's retreating figure, already thinking about the headline for her article as they made their way out of Stark Industries.The sleek, modern boardroom of Stark Industries was bathed in soft light, casting a warm glow over the polished surfaces and minimalist decor. Alexander Stark strode in confidently, his tailored suit exuding power and authority. He glanced around the room, his gaze settling on the figure seated at the head of the table.Alexander: (to himself) Finally.As he approached, the figure turned around, revealing a woman with striking features and an aura of sophistication that matched his own. She rose to her feet, a faint smile playing on her lips.Bryce: Alexander Stark.Alexander: Bryce Wayne.Their names hung in the air between them, heavy with the weight of rivalry and mutual respect. Alexander took his seat opposite Bryce, the tension palpable but unspoken.Bryce: (gesturing to the empty chairs) Shall we get down to business?Alexander: (nodding) By all means.They delved into the intricacies of their respective industries, discussing potential collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions. Ideas flowed freely, each one more innovative and promising than the last.But as the conversation progressed, Bryce broached the topic that had been lingering in the back of her mind.Bryce: (tentatively) Alexander, I believe there's a unique opportunity for us to collaborate on a project that could revolutionize the way we approach urban development.Alexander raised an eyebrow, intrigued but wary.Alexander: Go on.Bryce outlined her vision for a joint venture between Stark Industries and Wayne Enterprises a project that would combine their resources and expertise to create sustainable, technologically advanced cities of the future.Bryce: (earnestly) Imagine what we could accomplish together, Alexander. Gotham could be the blueprint for a new era of urban innovation.Alexander considered her proposal carefully, his mind racing with possibilities. But then, he shook his head, a firm resolve settling over him.Alexander: I appreciate the offer, Bryce. But I'm afraid I'll have to decline.Bryce's expression faltered, a flicker of disappointment crossing her features.Bryce: May I ask why?Alexander: (hesitant) Gotham... It's a complicated city, Bryce. And while I admire your vision, I'm not sure it's the right fit for Stark Industries at this time.Bryce studied him for a moment, her gaze searching and insightful.Bryce: (softly) I understand.There was a brief silence, the weight of their decision hanging heavy in the air. But then, Bryce straightened, a determined glint in her eyes.Bryce: (resolute) Well, Alexander, it seems we may have reached an impasse. But I have no doubt that our paths will cross again in the future.Alexander: (smirking) I wouldn't bet against it, Bryce.Bryce Wayne rose from her chair at the head of the conference table, her expression composed but distant as she gathered her notes and prepared to leave the meeting. The discussions had been fruitful, but the air was heavy with unspoken tension, a reminder of the underlying rivalry between Stark Industries and Wayne Enterprises.As she made to exit the boardroom, Alexander Stark's voice cut through the silence, stopping her in her tracks.Alexander: Bryce.Bryce paused, turning to face him with a raised eyebrow, her posture poised and unyielding.Bryce: Yes, Alexander?Alexander's lips curved into a smirk as he rose from his seat, his gaze unwavering as he met her eyes.Alexander: Why don't you come with me? I have something I think you'll find... intriguing.Bryce's curiosity was piqued, though she maintained a facade of indifference.Bryce: And what might that be?Alexander's smirk widened as he gestured towards the door, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes.Alexander: You'll just have to come and see for yourself.Bryce considered his offer for a moment, weighing the risks and rewards. She was well aware of the implications of leaving the meeting with Alexander, but the allure of the unknown was too tantalizing to resist.With a subtle nod, Bryce followed Alexander out of the boardroom, her steps echoing softly against the polished floors as they made their way through the corridors of Stark Industries.As they reached the elevator, Alexander turned to Bryce with a playful gleam in his eyes.Alexander: You won't regret this, Bryce. I promise you that.Bryce arched an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a faint smile as she stepped into the elevator beside him.Bryce: I certainly hope not, Alexander.1 hour later, Bryce and Alexander arrived at his house in Malibu, California. Perched on Point Dume at the edge of the cliff, the house offered breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The sound of waves crashing against the shore provided a soothing backdrop to their arrival.Alexander: Finally, we're here.Alexander's voice carried a hint of satisfaction as he unlocked the door and held it open for Bryce. She stepped inside, taking in the luxurious surroundings with a mixture of awe and intrigue.Bryce: (smirking) Impressive, Stark. Not quite what I expected.Alexander: (grinning) I aim to surprise.With a playful glint in his eyes, Alexander led Bryce through the house, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished floors. As they reached the master bedroom, he turned to her with a mischievous smile.Alexander: Care to explore further?Bryce nodded, a smirk playing on her lips as she followed him into the room. The tension between them crackled in the air, their gazes locking in silent understanding.As they entered the bedroom, the tension between them simmered beneath the surface, their gazes locking in a silent exchange of desire and anticipation.Without a word, Alexander closed the door behind them, the click of the latch signaling their retreat into privacy. The air crackled with electricity as they closed the distance between them, their lips meeting in a hungry, passionate kiss.Their hands roamed freely, exploring each other's bodies with feverish intensity. Clothing was shed in a flurry of urgency, discarded garments littering the floor as they surrendered to their mutual desire.Moments later, they collapsed onto the bed in a tangle of limbs, a symphony of laughter and gasps filling the room.Alexander: AGH MY NOSE!-LOCATION: GOTHAM CITY-Eight-year-old Dick Grayson stood in the grand foyer of Wayne Manor, his small frame clad in the iconic red, green, and yellow of his Robin suit. His eyes sparkled with excitement, his hands fidgeting with anticipation as he waited for his adopted mother, Bryce Wayne, to return from her trip to California.Alfred Pennyworth, the loyal butler and surrogate grandfather to Dick, approached with a gentle smile, his distinguished demeanor a comforting presence in the vast mansion.Alfred: Master Dick, may I inquire as to the reason behind the costume today?Dick beamed up at Alfred, his youthful exuberance infectious.Dick: I'm Robin today, Alfred! I've been practicing my moves all morning.Alfred's smile widened, a twinkle of pride in his eyes as he regarded the spirited boy before him.Alfred: I have no doubt you make an excellent Robin, Master Dick. Your skills are quite impressive indeed.Dick preened under the praise, his chest puffing out with pride.Dick: Thanks, Alfred! Do you think Mom will be back soon? I can't wait to show her my new trick!Alfred's expression softened with affection as he regarded Dick, a fondness for the boy evident in his gaze.Alfred: I'm afraid Mistress Bryce is attending to business matters in California, Master Dick. She won't be returning until the day after tomorrow.Dick's enthusiasm faltered slightly at the news, but he quickly rallied, determination shining in his eyes.Dick: That's okay, Alfred. I'll just have to save my best moves for when she gets back!Alfred chuckled softly, a warmth spreading through him at Dick's unwavering optimism.Alfred: I have no doubt she'll be impressed, Master Dick. Now, shall we find a suitable location for your training session?Dick nodded eagerly, already bounding towards the expansive grounds of Wayne Manor, his Robin cape billowing behind him.Bryce Wayne woke up in the luxurious, sunlit bedroom, stretching lazily as the soft, silken sheets rustled around her. She reached out, expecting to find Alexander beside her, but the space was empty. Confusion crossed her face as she looked around, then a calm, British-accented voice filled the room.JARVIS: Good morning, Ms. Wayne. It is currently 7 AM, and the temperature in Malibu is 72 degrees with scattered clouds. The surf conditions are fair, with waist to shoulder high lines. High tide is at 10:52 AM.Bryce sighed, her mind clearing as she remembered where she was. She looked down, realizing she was still naked, and grabbed a nearby shirt, slipping it over her head. The shirt was large and comfortable, likely Alexander's, and it fell to her mid-thigh. She walked over to the expansive window, gazing out at the breathtaking view of the Malibu coastline.Minutes Later outside did little to quell her curiosity and concern about Alexander's whereabouts. She turned away from the window, padding softly through the spacious, modern house. The combination of glass, steel, and tasteful decor made the place feel both inviting and sophisticated.Bryce: (calling out) Alexander? Where are you?Her voice echoed slightly in the large, open space. She wandered through the living room, past the sleek furniture and the state-of-the-art entertainment system, still not finding any sign of Alexander. Her bare feet made almost no sound on the cool, polished floors.Bryce: Alexander?There was no response. Bryce moved towards a wall adorned with various pieces of modern art. Her fingers brushed against the surface, finding a hidden touchpad. The wall slid open, revealing a high-tech control panel. She studied it for a moment, impressed by the advanced technology but still focused on finding Alexander.Bryce: JARVIS, where is Alexander?JARVIS: Mr. Stark is currently in his private workshop, Ms. Wayne. Shall I notify him of your wakefulness?Bryce smiled, relieved to have an answer.Bryce: No need, JARVIS. I'll find him myself.She continued through the house, descending a sleek, spiral staircase that led to the lower levels. The air grew cooler as she approached Alexander's workshop, the hum of machinery and the faint glow of arc reactors becoming more pronounced.As she entered the workshop, she found Alexander engrossed in his work, surrounded by various projects and holographic blueprints. He looked up as she approached, a smile spreading across his face.Alexander: (grinning) Morning, Bryce. I didn't mean to leave you alone up there.Bryce smiled back, the concern fading from her eyes as she crossed the room to join him.Bryce: Morning, Alexander. I was wondering where you disappeared to.Alexander wiped his hands on a rag, stepping closer to her.Alexander: Just couldn't sleep. Had some ideas I needed to work on. But I'm glad you're here.Bryce wrapped her arms around him, feeling the warmth of his body through the fabric of her borrowed shirt.Bryce: So am I. But next time, maybe leave a note?Alexander chuckled, nodding.Alexander: Deal. Now, how about we grab some breakfast? I'm sure JARVIS can whip us up something.Bryce smiled, feeling content as she leaned into him.Bryce: Sounds perfect. Let's go.Bryce and Alexander walked into the kitchen, the morning light streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows and illuminating the sleek, modern design of the room. The kitchen was outfitted with top-of-the-line appliances and an island that served as both a cooking space and a dining area.Alexander opened a cabinet, revealing an array of fresh ingredients and various cooking supplies. He turned to Bryce with a charming smile, his eyes twinkling with anticipation.Alexander: (grinning) Alright, Bryce. What will it be? I'm at your service this morning. Anything you want, I'll cook it for you.Bryce leaned against the counter, considering the options. The thought of having Alexander cook for her was both amusing and endearing. She tapped her chin thoughtfully, a playful smile tugging at her lips.Bryce: Hmm, let's see. How about something simple but delicious? Maybe an omelette with some fresh veggies and a side of toast?Alexander nodded, rolling up his sleeves with a flourish.Alexander: An excellent choice, Ms. Wayne. One veggie omelette with toast coming right up.He moved with practiced ease around the kitchen, gathering ingredients and setting them on the counter. Bryce watched him, amused by how effortlessly he transitioned from a high-powered business mogul to a competent chef.Bryce: (teasing) I didn't know you could cook, Alexander. Is there anything you can't do?Alexander glanced over his shoulder, winking at her.Alexander: I like to keep a few surprises up my sleeve. Cooking just happens to be one of my lesser-known talents.He cracked a couple of eggs into a bowl, whisking them expertly before adding chopped vegetables bell peppers, onions, spinach, and tomatoes. The sizzle of the pan and the aroma of the cooking food filled the kitchen, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.Bryce moved closer, watching as Alexander flipped the omelette with a practiced flick of his wrist. She couldn't help but be impressed by his skill and the genuine enjoyment he seemed to take in the task.Bryce: (smiling) You're full of surprises, Alexander. This smells amazing.Alexander plated the omelette, adding a side of golden-brown toast before presenting the dish to Bryce with a flourish.Alexander: (proudly) For you, Bryce. Bon appétit.Bryce accepted the plate, her eyes lighting up at the sight of the perfectly cooked omelette. She took a bite, savoring the flavors and nodding appreciatively.Bryce: (happily) This is fantastic, Alexander. You might have missed your calling as a chef.Alexander laughed, sitting down beside her with his own plate.Alexander: I'll take that as a compliment. I'm glad you like it.As they ate together, the conversation flowed easily, the bond between them growing stronger with each shared moment. The morning sun continued to rise, casting a warm glow over the kitchen and filling the space with a sense of comfort and companionship.As they continued to enjoy their breakfast, Alexander couldn't help but notice the contented look on Bryce's face. He took a sip of his coffee, his curiosity getting the better of him.Alexander: (curious) You look unusually happy this morning, Bryce. What's going on in that brilliant mind of yours?Bryce looked up from her plate, meeting his gaze with a soft smile. She shrugged slightly, her demeanor relaxed and genuine.Bryce: (playfully) Maybe it's the company. Or maybe it's just nice to have someone else cook for me for a change.Alexander chuckled, leaning back in his chair as he studied her. There was a question that had been nagging at him for a while, and he decided now was as good a time as any to bring it up.Alexander: You know, Bryce, there are a lot of rumors about you. They say you're cold, calculative, and distant. That you always get what you want, no matter the cost. Any truth to that?Bryce's smile faded slightly, replaced by a more contemplative expression. She took a moment to gather her thoughts before responding.Bryce: (thoughtfully) I suppose there's some truth to those rumors. In business, you have to be tough. People mistake decisiveness and ambition for coldness. I've worked hard to get where I am, and I've had to make difficult decisions along the way.She paused, looking down at her plate for a moment before continuing.Bryce: (softly) But that doesn't mean I'm without feelings or that I don't care about people. It's just...easier to keep those parts of myself hidden. It's a way to protect myself and the people I care about.Alexander nodded, understanding and respect in his eyes.Alexander: I get that. It's not easy being in the spotlight, constantly scrutinized. But you should know, Bryce, that the person I see in front of me is far from cold and distant.Bryce looked up at him, a hint of vulnerability in her eyes.Bryce: Alexander, there's something I need to tell you.Alexander, sensing the shift in her tone, looked at her attentively.Alexander: (concerned) What is it, Bryce?Bryce took a deep breath, gathering her courage.Bryce: I have a son.Alexander's eyes widened in shock, and he choked on his coffee, coughing as he tried to process the information.Alexander: (coughing) You have a son?Bryce quickly moved to pat his back, trying to help him catch his breath.Bryce: (calmly) Yes, Alexander. But he's adopted.Alexander's coughing subsided, and he looked at her, still processing the revelation.Alexander: (bewildered) You have an adopted son? When did this happen?Bryce returned to her seat, her expression softening as she spoke.Bryce: About a year ago. His name is Dick Grayson. He lost his parents in a tragic accident, and I took him in. He's an incredible kid, Alexander.Alexander rubbed the back of his neck, still looking a bit shell-shocked.Alexander: (exhaling) Wow, Bryce. I just...I wasn't expecting that. Here I was thinking...well, never mind what I was thinking.Bryce smiled gently, understanding his reaction.Bryce: It's a lot to take in, I know. But Dick is a big part of my life now. I wanted you to know because if we're going to continue seeing each other, you need to know everything about me.Alexander nodded, finally beginning to relax.Alexander: (sincerely) I appreciate you telling me, Bryce. And I'm glad you did. It doesn't change how I feel about you. In fact, it makes me respect you even more for stepping up and taking care of him.Bryce's smile widened, relief washing over her.Bryce: (softly) Thank you, Alexander. That means a lot to me.Alexander reached out, taking her hand in his.Alexander: (gently) I'd love to meet him someday, Bryce. Whenever you're ready for that.Bryce squeezed his hand, feeling a renewed sense of connection and gratitude.Bryce: (smiling) I'd like that too, Alexander. I think you two would get along great.As the conversation continued, Alexander finished the last of his omelette, setting his fork down with a satisfied sigh. He looked at Bryce, his expression turning serious once more.Alexander: So, when are you heading back to Gotham?Bryce took a sip of her coffee, her gaze meeting his.Bryce: In two days. I still have some business to wrap up here in California before I go back.Alexander nodded thoughtfully, his mind already shifting to his own schedule.Alexander: (casually) Well, in that case, I've got a flight to catch in about seven hours. I'm heading to Afghanistan for a weapons test with the military.Bryce's eyes widened slightly, a mix of surprise and concern crossing her features.Bryce: Afghanistan? For a weapons test? That sounds... intense.Alexander shrugged, his demeanor calm and collected.Alexander: It's part of the job. I've got to make sure everything's running smoothly. Besides, I have a good team with me. I'll be fine.Bryce reached out, placing a hand on his arm.Bryce: Just be careful, okay? I know you can handle yourself, but still...Alexander smiled warmly, appreciating her concern.Alexander: (reassuringly) I will. And while I'm gone, you're welcome to stay here. Make yourself at home. JARVIS will be at your service for anything you need.Bryce nodded, feeling a bit more at ease.Bryce: (smiling) Thank you, Alexander. I appreciate it. And I'll be sure to take good care of your place.Alexander chuckled, standing up from the table and stretching.Alexander: (teasing) I have no doubt about that. Just don't rearrange my workshop, okay?Bryce laughed, the sound light and genuine.Bryce: I promise. No touching the toys.Alexander leaned down, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.Alexander: (softly) I'll see you soon, Bryce. Take care.Bryce watched as he walked away, a mix of emotions swirling inside her. She admired his courage and dedication, even if it worried her sometimes. As he disappeared from view, she turned to the sleek control panel on the kitchen counter.Bryce: (addressing JARVIS) JARVIS, can you help me get settled in?JARVIS's calm, British-accented voice responded immediately.JARVIS: Of course, Ms. Wayne. I am at your service. If there's anything you need, please do not hesitate to ask.Bryce smiled, feeling a sense of comfort in the high-tech home. She stood up, ready to explore more of Alexander's world while she waited for his return.Hours Later Alexander Stark stood on the tarmac at Van Nuys Airport (VNY) in Los Angeles, his private jet gleaming under the morning sun. The sleek, modern aircraft was a testament to his wealth and status, its exterior reflecting the light in a way that made it look almost futuristic.Surrounding him were his bodyguards, a small contingent of highly trained professionals, each one vigilant and ready. Their presence was both a precaution and a necessity, given Alexander's high-profile status and the nature of his trip.Alexander adjusted the strap of the leather bag slung over his shoulder, containing essentials for the flight and his upcoming mission. He looked up at the jet, a mix of excitement and determination in his eyes. This trip to Afghanistan was crucial for his company, and he was ready to ensure everything went perfectly.As he approached the stairs leading up to the plane, his head of security, a burly man with a stern expression named Max, stepped forward.Max: (seriously) Mr. Stark, everything is secure and ready for departure. We'll be in constant contact throughout the flight and during your time in Afghanistan.Alexander nodded, appreciating the thoroughness of his team.Alexander: (confidently) Thanks, Max. I know I can count on you guys.He turned and began to ascend the stairs, the wind picking up slightly and ruffling his hair. At the top, he paused for a moment, looking back at the entourage below. Bryce had been right to be concerned, but he knew this was necessary. He gave a brief wave before disappearing into the jet.Inside, the plane was as luxurious as expected, with plush seats, state-of-the-art technology, and all the comforts one could ask for on a long flight. Alexander placed his bag in a secure compartment and took a seat by the window. He pulled out his phone to send a quick message to Bryce.Alexander's Message to Bryce: "Hey Bryce, just boarded the jet. Should be in the air soon. Take care of yourself and the house while I'm gone. See you soon. - Alex"He hit send and leaned back in his seat, closing his eyes for a moment to gather his thoughts. The hum of the engines starting up was a familiar sound, one that signaled the beginning of yet another important journey.A flight attendant approached, offering him a drink, which he accepted with a nod.Flight Attendant: (politely) Mr. Stark, we'll be taking off shortly. Is there anything you need before we depart?Alexander: (smiling) I'm good, thanks. Just make sure we're on schedule.The attendant nodded and walked away as Alexander looked out the window, the bustling activity of the airport a stark contrast to the calm he felt inside the jet. He took a deep breath, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in Afghanistan.As the plane began to taxi down the runway, he couldn't help but think about Bryce and the promise of returning home. The jet lifted off smoothly, ascending into the clear blue sky, leaving Los Angeles behind as Alexander set his sights on the mission ahead.