Ming Zhao

Ming Zhao races into our booth clad in her own costume. She is dressed in a skin-tight black catsuit with a cute mask over her eyes and a long zipper down the front. She looks more like a goofy cosplayer and less like the famed comic book writer and artist that she is.

"Wow! You're actually the model for this series?" She asks. "I love these games!"

I feel so embarrassed. Not only is the hottest geek in the world here with me, but she can see me in this ridiculous getup. I try to say something to regain my composure. "Uh, you like this series?"

"What superhero fan doesn't?" She asks.

"Good point," I say. "Hey, you don't know me, but I'm -"

"Ahab, right? My biggest fan?"

I freeze. "H-How did you know?"

"You come to my booth every year. I ought to recognize my fans by now."

I can hear Raquel laughing while Natalie jealously glares at Ming Zhao.

"You know, you look really hot in that costume," Ming Zhao says. "I'll tell you what: I'll give you a free autograph if I can get a free picture with just the two of us."

"Sold!" I say.

She stands with me in front of the camera as Natalie sets it up. I do my best to strike my pose while Ming Zhao makes her own. I try desperately not to look her leather-covered breasts. I couldn't stand the embarrassment of a boner in this thing.

Before we can see the photo, our next guest storms in without any warning.