by Melissa Keir
“Congrats, Carina. We hope you are a Tony Steele fan because your VIP passes will get you into a personal panel where Mr. Steele will share his writing ideas as well as a few secrets he has up his sleeves. You will also have your photo taken with Mr. Steele and receive a signed copy of his latest comic.”
Tears slid down her cheeks. Her son’s smile made everything worthwhile. “Thank you. You’ve made my son’s day. He’s the big Tony Steele fan.”
“Just show your ID at the door of the convention center, and the passes are yours. Thank you for listening to 99KIM-FM.”
She turned and looked at her son. “We won.”
“What?” His voice shook the windows. “We won?” He’d looked at her again as if she were joking.
“Anthony. I’m not teasing. I wouldn’t over this. Your answer was correct, and we won the VIP passes to the convention. Looks like you got your wish, after all.”
Her son leaned over and squeezed her. “I love you. I know we didn’t have the money, but winning the tickets is amazing. Jason will be so jealous. I can’t wait to call him when I get home.”
“Make sure you don’t rub it in his face. Be a gracious winner. Had we not had the correct answer or been the wrong caller, you wouldn’t be going,” she chided. She knew he was excited but having something better didn’t make you a better person. Raising a strong but caring young man in today’s society was a challenge. Doing it alone was a miracle. “Since we are spending the day at Comic-Con, you’ll have to get any homework done tonight and help me with the laundry. I’ll still have time for grocery shopping on Sunday, but I will have my own planning and such to finish up. We are giving up Saturday for this fun event, so we need to budget our time.”
“Anything you say. If you need me to run the vacuum, I will. Thank you, thank you for calling and for winning.” His offer to help out with more chores impressed her. She was proud of the young man he’d become.
“I’ll let you know if I need more help. In the meantime, we’d better get home and start dinner. Do you have homework this weekend?” Carina pulled back out into traffic. She gripped the steering wheel tight. The win still had her nerves in a tangle.
“Yep. I have some math homework. Just a page of multiplication and division facts. It won’t take me long, so I’ll help with dinner then get started.”
She reached over and ruffled her son’s dark hair. He needed another haircut. The one she’d given him about a month ago had already grown out. Man, he’s growing like a weed. Maybe I can get a trim in before we leave in the morning. At least with this win, I’ve earned some extra chore help. I wonder how long that’ll last.
She tightened then relaxed her grip on the wheel, releasing some of her own excitement. Now she needed to add finding out the best route to the Baltimore Convention Center to her list of tasks for the night. She smiled. Life was never dull.
Chapter Three
Tony DeMarco lifted the plastic tub from the back of his Suburban and placed it onto the metal rolling cart. He moved three more tubs then closed and locked his vehicle. He pulled the loaded cart through the parking structure and into the overhead walkway into the convention center. The sun had just begun to rise and painted the sky in brilliant colors. Tony paused, awestruck by the beautiful scene. “I never get tired of this. Each new day is a wonderful blessing.”
During his time in Iraq, he’d witnessed such death and destruction, it was etched in his soul. The use of children as suicide bombers had been the worst. The young child, one who had laughed at Tony’s rough drawing of a dog in the dirt, dying in front of him, shrapnel wounds littering the child’s small form was the stuff of nightmares. He couldn’t understand using women and children as cannon fodder.
He’d spent a few months with a shrink when he returned stateside. It helped him escape those demons and sleep at night. However, it was the smiling expressions of fans at the comic-cons that helped the most. Those kept the demons at bay.
Tony smiled as he approached the elevator. Some of the other vendors stood waiting for their chance to load up the elevator and head down to the convention floor. He spotted friends and a few newbies.
“Hey, Tony, man.” Mike Reese’s full-throated bellow was music to Tony’s ears. Mike had served with him and now helped him with the merchandising and sales. Mike’s business acumen had put Tony Steele’s SEAL Team on the map. Not only with comic sales but also with trading cards, dog tags, posters, and toys. Tony’s new release expanded the merchandising with a new line of T-shirts and baseball caps.
Tony smiled as Mike rolled toward him. “Hey, Mike. What’s shaking?” Seeing his buddy in a wheelchair always caused a twinge in Tony’s gut. Mike had served alongside him in Iraq and was lucky to be alive after having shrapnel damage his spinal cord when a suicide bomber decided to take out the café Mike had been protecting. His friend also lost his legs from the lower calf down. The cost of the orthotics was outrageous so Tony had set up a foundation through his company, Dark Dream Comics for Mike’s medical expenses. Some of the profits from the comics and merchandising were funneled into the fund.
“I started the booth setup but ran out for coffee while I waited on your sorry ass.” On his lap was a drink tray with two steaming cups. “You’re lucky. I picked you up one cuz I like you.”
Mike lifted one of the cups from the tray and handed it to Tony, who took a drink. “Perfect.”
“Yep. Got the wussy coffee you love so much,” he continued to tease.
Tony nodded toward the line outside the elevator. “Do you think we are going to ever get down to the convention floor?”
“Just watch,” he mumbled then rolled his chair closer to the front of the line and raised his voice. “Guys, we need to get down to the floor. Any chance you’d let me and my man go ahead? It’s not like I can take the stairs.”
Tony pushed the cart behind Mike as they entered the convention floor. Mike turned and glanced back at his friend. “See? Works every time.”
“It shouldn’t. Go show me where to set up. I have to meet with the organizer about the panel I’m leading. I plan on giving the fans a sneak peek at the next SEAL comic and maybe get to use some of their ideas in the storyline.” He followed his friend down a row and along the back of the center. Soon, they arrived at Dark Dream Comics’ space.
“Here’s our home away from home for the next two days.” Mike swung his arm around.
Tony paused pushing the cart “You did good. I’ll get the comics set up on the right-side table. Fingers crossed, we’ll do all right in sales. Maybe even find some new fans.”
“Worth a shot, bossman.”
***
Carina’s son had been staring out the window at the road since they’d started the trip. His excitement shone, even at the early hour. His body vibrated with anticipation. She hadn’t needed to wake him this morning. He was ready and chowing down on cereal when she sauntered into the kitchen. She shook her head. Only on days when he wants to get up is Anthony ready before me.
After having her morning coffee and reviewing the maps, Carina felt almost ready to go. Knowing she’d be on her feet all day, she wore her comfy jeans, a plain, three-quarter sleeve sweater, and tennis shoes. No sense dealing with blisters. Tugging her long dark hair into a ponytail, she applied eyeliner and lip gloss. It wasn’t like she wanted to dress up to attract a cosplay superhero or grown man talking about his over one hundred Wonder Woman comics. She tossed some snacks and fruity water into a bag, knowing the food along the way wouldn’t be healthy or cheap. Then she grabbed her phone and her favorite romance. She never left home without a book to read. Books kept her entertained, and she’d had a feeling she’d need some alone time with all the comic fans today.
“Mom, what if something goes wrong, and the tickets aren’t there?” Her son’s voice squeaked on the last word.
“No worries, Anthony. The radio station said the tickets would be there. They have my name. I just show my driver’s license, and we’re good to go.”
“What if someone else says they are you? They’d get the tickets and then we’d miss out.”
She took a deep breath. Her son’s fears were silly, but he needed the validation. If he doesn’t learn to deal with his fears, they become unmanageable. “Someone would have to be super talented to create a driver’s license with my name and their image on it, especially on short notice. And for the comic show? They would want to use my license to buy a new car or maybe sign up for a credit card, instead. After all, that’s where the big money is.” She reached over and squeezed his hand. “I know you’ve been up worrying rather than sleeping, right?”
Her son nodded.
“Did you sleep at all?”
He looked down, unable to meet her gaze.
“Let’s stop at the next gas station and I’ll get your pillow and blanket out of the back. You can cuddle up in your seat and take a nap before we arrive. Then you won’t be too tired when you meet Tony Steele. You want to be ready to walk for hours and see all the exciting exhibits. I’m sure there will be more than Dark Dream Comics at the event. One this big is sure to draw fans of many different comics.”
“All right. Just be sure to wake me when we get close. I don’t want to miss a thing.” A yawn ended his statement and proved her theory about his lack of sleep.
“Will do. I see an exit coming up. We’ll get you settled, and I’ll keep you on schedule.” She focused on the road. A little stretch break would be good for her as well. Carina lifted the thermos of coffee to her lips and took a drink. The things parents do for their children. Sometimes she wished she had a husband who could help with the duties. She scrunched up her lips. It wasn’t meant to be. Besides, he’s a pretty wonderful kid. I wouldn’t change anything.
Chapter Four
Carina enjoyed listening to the music as she drove and chatting with Anthony when he woke up. She’d planned on staying for the full day at the convention center, but she’d read a write-up in the newspaper’s entertainment section about a Baltimore family restaurant known for its food specials and musical guests—just a few weeks ago the former lead singer of The Universe. If Anthony and she had time, they could stop by before driving home. What would be the chance they would get lucky enough to see him playing there while they had dinner?
Carina didn’t socialize often with her busy teaching schedule, but even when she did, driving to Baltimore for a dinner was an expensive and time-consuming evening. She’d rather do a picnic lunch at the park so Anthony could hang with his friends at the skate area, or enjoy a meal at the local diner where she never had to worry about finding something he’d eat.
“Sign ahead. Baltimore exit!” She reached over and tapped her son on the leg. “Are you ready?” She grinned at the goofy smile that came over his face. “I guess that’s a yes. We should be there in about a half hour. The convention center is down near the waterfront.”
Anthony sat up taller in his seat and strained his neck as if he could see through the buildings and catch a glimpse of the center from the freeway. “I’ll let you know when I see it.”
Carina navigated the roads, following her map and directions. She wove by tall regal buildings and smaller ornate ones. The courthouse. The medical building. The Galleria. She stopped at the light in front of the Inner Harbor area and took in the sights of the water, shops, and families walking around. Taking a right and driving a block, they’d arrived at the Baltimore Convention Center. A large banner proclaimed Baltimore’s Comic-Con headquarters. Staying behind the car in front of her, she drove around the block, watching the signs for public parking. Soon, they arrived at the parking garage on St. Paul Place. She pulled into a spot, turned off the ignition, and shook her hands that had become stiff on the steering wheel.
“We’re here?” Anthony sat up straighter in his seat and glanced around.
“Close. We have a couple of blocks to go, but yes, we’re here.” Carina climbed out of the driver’s seat and marched around to the back of the car. She dug the snack bag from the trunk and shoved a couple of treats into her large purse. Anthony joined her at the rear of the vehicle. “Is there anything in particular you want me to bring?” She pointed to the munchies.
“Nah.” He grabbed a water bottle and then slung his messenger bag over his shoulder. “I’ve got my Tony Steele comics inside. Maybe he’ll sign them for me.”
Carina ruffled her son’s hair. “Isn’t that the point of this whole meet and greet? You’ll get some time to ask him the big questions.” She closed the hatch and locked the car. “Are you ready to go?”
“Ready? I feel like I can run there.” He bounced on his toes.
“No running. Enjoy the town. Besides, we’ll be on our feet enough once we get inside. I’m sure you’ll want to stop at every booth.”
“Maybe.” He grinned. “Or maybe Tony will let me hang out with him at his booth.”
They headed toward the garage elevator. “We shall see.”
***
With the booth set up, Tony and Mike had some time on their hands. Tony sat at his table with a sheet of paper in front of him. It always helped to draw when he was stressed. And while conventions were amazing because he met so many fans and enjoyed hearing their stories, each event stressed him out.
Mike rolled over next to him. “Is that a new character for the comics?” He pointed to the image of a woman Tony had drawn.
“Possibly. I’ve been playing around with this female character for a while now.” He added a few more lines to the background, fleshing out the building behind her.
“The female market will love a lady lead. And looking like a badass supermodel, all the guys will want to date her.”
“With women poised to become Navy SEALs, having one in the comic seemed like a good idea. Besides, this character has been running around in my head for a while.” He added some shading, making the character appear more 3-D.
“Why? Do the characters always come through so strong?”
Tony paused and studied the image on the paper. “They don’t come through as strong as this one. But I’ve been thinking a lot about this girl I dated. The female SEAL looks like her.”
“Girlfriend?” Mike’s tone grated on his nerves.
He felt his cheeks heat. “Yeah. I know you don’t see me as the dating type, but that’s because I’m working so hard with Dark Dream. This girl was more than just a date. She was special. Could have been ‘the one,’ but I joined the military and moved on. Haven’t heard from her since.”
“Too bad. She looks hot, if your drawing is based on real life. Maybe I should look her up.”
Tony shrugged, but inside he seethed. “I don’t have any say in your love life.”
“That’s okay. I’ve been seeing this amazing woman.” Mike flashed a big smile. “Julie’s hoping to stop by today and say hello. She’s been wanting to see what I do at these conventions. Thinks it’s all screaming girls and sexual escapades.”
Tony chuckled. “I think she’s got the wrong idea. Unless you are one of the superhero stars, no hot chicks stand in line for a photo with us. Just young boys interested in the comics, fan art, and merchandise.”
“That’s why this girl character could be a big bonus for us.” He pointed at Tony’s drawing. “More chicks.”
Tony shook his head. “Don’t you have some products to inventory? I’m going to get back to this.” He turned his shoulder away from Mike and resumed his drawing, adding lines and shading to the character. She was clear as day in his mind…standing on the porch of her house, tears streaming down, long dark hair whipping in the spring wind. He sighed. Not wanting to find out she’d married and settled down, Tony had avoided searching for her. Maybe, someday, he’d change his mind, but for now, he wasn’t ready to know she’d moved on without him.
Chapter Five
Anthony talked a mile a minute the whole way to the convention center, while Carina studied the surrounding buildings and area. Some of the side streets were still brick and re
minded her of the long history of this area.
As they strolled, they passed a few interesting characters. Dressing in costume was popular at comic conventions. So far, they’d seen a Wonder Woman, Captain America, and Spiderman. However, there were many Carina couldn’t identify.
“Who’s that person in the hood supposed to be?” She nodded toward the guy with the sword hanging from his back.
“He’s a guy from the video game, Assassin’s Creed. That person is rocking the outfit. Super realistic.”
She opened her eyes wide. “Do you play the game?”
“Sometimes. But not as much as I play Zelda or Halo. Those are my faves.” He pointed out another costume. “See the girl over there in green? She’s dressed as Zelda. You can tell by the outfit and sword.”
“Are those pointed ears?”
“Of course. Can’t be Zelda without them. I suppose she is dressed like the Breath of the Wind Zelda rather than the first release. The bow and arrow as well as the designs on the sleeves give it away.”
“I never thought I’d see so many people in costumes.” They paused at the crossing and waited for the signal.
“Yea, Mom. Cosplay is a big deal for some people. They get a kick out of dressing up as their characters. The costumes can be very expensive, though. I guess that’s why I don’t do it.” He patted his messenger bag. “I’d rather spend my money on comics than costumes. But, it’s still cool.”
“I guess you’ll have a lot to teach me today. So, why did you fall in love with the Tony Steele comics? What makes them so special?” They crossed at the light and turned right toward the center.
“Mr. Steele writes about Navy SEALs who save the world. They fight the bad guys and protect the innocent.” The excitement in his voice reminded her of when she had been so enthusiastic about something…well someone.