“I’m actually finishing up modifications to the ride I plan to use specifically for when I’m out being a hero,” Amina said. “It’ll be ready by next week.”
Caleb typed another note to himself. “Okay, I’ll get you a set of plates and registration that can only be traced back to the ACG. Bulldozer, Frost, and Stardust?”
Stardust shook his head. “Thanks, but I like my bike.”
Caleb objected with a frown. “It’s too recognizable. I’m worried that eventually someone will notice an exotic dancer and a superhero are riding the same motorcycle.”
“Don’t worry about it. Most of the time I’m going too fast for anyone to get a good look at it anyway.”
Mike wanted to interject that Stardust’s plan had far too many holes in it. Stoplights for example. But given the way the man usually reacted to his suggestions, he didn’t think it would go over well. Thankfully, Helios interjected.
“I understand that you want to continue using the ride that you feel most comfortable with. But I’m sure Caleb can work with you to find something that suits you just as well for when you’re out as Stardust. And remember, it’s not only your own identity that you’re protecting.”
Mike watched from the corner of his eye as Stardust wrinkled his nose as he thought.
“You’re right. Okay, then. New bike it is.”
Caleb shook his head. “I can’t believe you almost turned down a free motorcycle that’s going to be supercool because it’s for a superhero. Sonica, face palm him for me.”
Sonica popped over to Stardust’s spot at the table, but she didn’t smack her palm to his forehead. Instead, she kissed the spot. “At least you’re pretty,” she teased before popping back to her seat.
Mike watched, fascinated with the pink that washed over Stardust’s high cheekbones. The man always seemed so confident, it was a surprise to see him blush.
“Frost, what about you?”
“I don’t drive or ride in cars unless I absolutely have to. A vehicle would be a waste for me.”
Frost’s answer was given in a quiet yet inflexible tone that made it clear there’d be no changing their mind. Mike wondered what had prompted their dislike for being inside a vehicle. Maybe it had something to do with the use of their powers in close spaces.
“I’ve been teleporting them with me and it’s worked out fine so far,” Sonica said.
“And I’m working on strengthening my powers so I can travel farther and faster with them,” Frost added.
“Sounds good.” Caleb checked Frost off his list without teasing them as he had Stardust. “Keep me posted on your progress and let me know if I can design any tech to help. What about you, Dozey?”
“Since you’re passing out free rides, I’ll take something that works with rough terrain, like a big four-wheeler,” Bulldozer answered.
Caleb drummed his fingers on the table, an excited grin tugging at his lips. “I saw something recently that would be perfect. Let’s get together and I’ll show you. We can go from there on design specs.”
“Let me know when and I’m there.”
“And last but not least—Mike.”
Mike looked at the tech genius in surprise. He’d been quietly listening to the conversation but he hadn’t expected it to involve him. “I’m not on the team,” he pointed out.
“Yet,” Caleb said with a cheeky wink. “And since it can take time to get everything in place with funding and special tech builds, it’ll be helpful if I have everything in place when you decide to officially join.”
The explanation made sense, so Mike took a moment to consider what he could use. “I don’t need anything flashy. Something able to transport the wounded if the occasion calls for it would be helpful.”
“Good thinking,” Helios said approvingly. “Are you a doctor?”
“Army medic. Former.”
“Ooooh, you’ve got skills skills,” Amina said.
Mike smiled at her. “I guess.”
After Mike’s answer, Caleb swiped the final item off the hologram list.
