Look at Me Chapter 1: Default Chapter, a smallville fanfic

"Look At Me"

Based on the television show "Smallville"

(PART 1)

Smallville could be called a one-stoplight town, but there was always something going on at night, innocent or otherwise. Main Street had the only movie theater and the last showing of a typical romantic comedy had just finished. A gaggle of young women spilled out laughing onto the dimly lit street. They headed over to the local coffee shop called The Talon, to prolong their evening.

The door jingled open to reveal a small, quiet crowd. The women converged on the counter to order their selection of caffeine and calories while chattering about the dreamy eyes of the movie's leading man. One of the women, a smoldering redhead, turned away from the counter to gaze at the other menu available here. Her eyes glanced at several men, all too tame for her tastes. Her gaze finally came to rest on a darkly handsome man alone with his book. She liked his black, finely tailored cloak and sharp features. There was something both sexy and predatory about him. Though for her the two traits went hand in hand. Unnervingly, he looked up immediately and regarded her coolly for a moment before returning to his written companion. The girl spun with a huff back to her friends, but she felt a rush.

Later that evening, the girls were driving home, squashed together in one car.

"I know who you'll be dreaming about tonite." A prissy blond taunted the redhead who was practically on her lap.

"What are you talking about?" She hadn't mentioned the man from the coffee shop to her friends; too much man stealing among the group.

"Jason Bensen, who else?" The blond was talking about the movie's leading man. The redhead smiled.

"Who else?"

The car screeched to a stop at the redhead's apt. building and she jumped out waving as the car sped away. A chorus of good-byes pierced the tranquil night. There was only a small light near the front door. She sauntered up the walk planning on when she would be visiting the coffee shop again. Dark eyes were in her thoughts. They were also watching her from the shadows.

"Hello."

She spun at the low male voice coming from her left. A man was leaning on the wall of her building. She peered closer at him and then pretended indifference.

"You were at the coffee shop."

Sebastian Tayes smiled charmingly.

"You were looking at me."

"That doesn't mean I wanted you to follow me home." She replied quickly. His smile grew wider at her fake defensiveness and the fact that she didn't even notice how impossible that would be considering she only just got home. Yes, he could pick them well.

Sebastian walked over to her and smoothly took her hand.

"Come here." His voice was so seductive. She hesitated only briefly, having squashed most of her gut feelings long ago, and followed him out of the light. He stopped by the side of the building and leaned her against the wall. Her heart thumped with the thrill. But she could play a little.

"What do you think you're doing?"

In answer he touched his lips lightly with hers, then pulled back. Her eyes stayed closed, expectantly. He smiled then, but there was nothing comforting about it.

"Look at me." She languidly opened her eyes at the soft command and found him looking at her intensely. A sharp sense of wrongness filled her being and she gasped, but could not look away. Then all she could see was a blue fog as she screamed in her mind.

A blue light was ghosting from her eyes into his. In a moment he had to support her limp body as he drew more and more from her. One arm was holding her and the other supporting himself on the wall, muscles tight. His breathing became fast.

Jonathan and Martha Kent lived on a small family farm with their extraordinary son, Clark. It was early Friday morning and the dew was lifting. A tractor rumbled over the field, a silhouette against the sunrise. It came to a stop in front of the old barn and Clark easily jumped down.

Jonathan walked out of the barn to meet his adopted son. Clark's fit build and handsome face disguised the fact that he was only a young teen. Then he smiled and he was nothing but a boy wanting to please his dad.

"All finished."

"That's great son, I really appreciate it." Jonathan smiled back. Clark beamed and Jonathan waved toward the farmhouse a short distance away.

"Go on back to the house and get ready for school; you don't want to be late."

Clark nodded once and then zoomed off with inhuman speed leaving his father staring after him wistfully.

"If I had half that boy's speed…" Then he got back to work, knowing it would take him all day to do what Clark could finish in an hour.

Teenagers swarmed the hallways of Smallville high. Although the school liked the think academics were the main reason for attendance, what made the students get out of bed too early in the morning was something different. What drama awaited them that day in school? Who was with who? What did he mean by that look? Did you hear what she said?

Whispers, laughter, taunts and shouts buzzed by Clark as he opened his locker. A large textbook fell out of the top, hitting him in the head. He simply put it back and continued to get the books he needed for the next class.

"Ow…geez Clark, you didn't even wince."

Clark turned to see his good friend Chloe, a cute, inquisitive blond standing next to him.

"Uh…it happens all the time. I get used to it." Clark was more used to making up excuses to cover up his astounding physical abilities.

Chloe reached up and quickly rearranged his top shelf so things were more balanced. Clark watched her with amusement.

"Thanks Chloe." They smiled at each other and once again Chloe wished his smile held more than the promise of friendship in it. Then Chloe's mouth made a big "o" as she remembered why she had come over to him in the first place.

"There was another one last night!"

"Another what?" Clark closed his locker and Chloe took out a folded newspaper from her pocket, thrusting it in his face.

"Mysterious coma victim, remember?" She practically bounced with excitement.

Clark took the paper from her and skimmed the article.

"That makes three this week" he mused. Chloe made a habit of keeping track of anything odd that happened in Smallville, which was often. The latest was a series of people found in comas around the city. It had started a couple of months ago. They had been taken to the local hospital, but medical experts were baffled at their condition and could only keep the victims stable.

"That we know of", Chloe countered.

Clark looked at her curiously. "You think there are more?" "I checked out the obits for the past month…" Chloe began. Clark smiled and shook his head at the little reporter.

"Light reading over the weekend, Chloe?"

She ignored him.

"There were several odd deaths. People were found dead on the streets with no visible wounds. I'm guessing they were coma victims that weren't taken to the hospital in time."

They started walking to class together.

"I take it you want us to check this out?" Clark was referring to The Torch, the small newspaper the school ran. Chloe and Clark were part of it as was their friend Lana Lang. The Torch regularly investigated the strange going-ons around Smallville. People with strange powers were mostly the causes of the problems. The Torch could usually connect their powers with a massive and destructive meteor shower that had happened over a decade ago. That was also when Clark's human parents found him, then a toddler, in a field. It was not a coincidence.

"I'm sure something weird is going on. This could be a big story."

Clark smiled and wiggled his eyebrows at her, "And only we can get to the bottom of it!"

Chloe stopped at the door to her classroom and turned to him without a smile.

"I'm taking this seriously, Clark. People are getting hurt."

Clark sobered, she was right. Story or not, maybe he could help. Clark tried to use his unique powers to keep the residents of Smallville safe.

"OK, I'll meet you at The Talon tonite and we'll talk."

Although the enormous Luther family mansion was technically in Smallville, it seemed to be in it's own world. Often the affairs dealt with inside were far removed from the quaint Kent farm or small town high school. Luther Corp. had a hand in most of the businesses of Smallville, yet made deals around the world. Although his father ran the main company, Lex was in charge of things in this small town.

Tonite, however, Lex Luther was simply going over the accounts of several small businesses he co-owned here. The young man in his twenties was handsome and confident in spite of his oddly, bald head; another sign of that past meteor shower. Lex worked in his office, with only the soft music of Bach coming from a hidden state-of-the-art stereo system to keep him company.

He sighed as he picked up another paper from the pile and then sat up, something catching his attention. Lex opened a folder nearby and found another paper, comparing the two. His eyebrows rose once.

---

"Where the lighting is poor, and the service is worse." was the motto of Joe's Dive, a small, local bar and eatery. Even so there was a good crowd that evening, most of them listening to the woman with her guitar on the dime-size stage in the corner. She had just finished an upbeat song when Lex walked in to hear the applause. He took notice of the amount of patrons and headed to the bar.

Joe, the other owner of the place looked up from behind the bar, where he was wiping glasses and forced a smile for Lex. It wasn't that he didn't like the kid personally; he just wished he hadn't been forced to ask for help this year to keep his place open. Lex drove a hard bargain, but so far hadn't pulled any tricks.

Lex leaned on the bar just as the woman began to sing a heart breaking love ballad.

"Hello Joe. This is quite a crowd."

"Yeah, you came to listen?"

"No," Lex's reply was crisp. "Actually your increase in profits this quarter brought me out tonite."

Joe was reminded that the Luther's were all about money.

"I thought that was a good thing for a business partnership." Joe's hands slowed, but he continued wiping.

Lex smiled. "Not complaining, just curious."

This wasn't the kind of place Lex would ever visit as a customer, but he felt it was an established part of the community with a loyal crowd. Seeing that crowd expand made him glad he bailed Joe out. Whatever Joe was doing was working and Lex wanted to know what it was.

"I started getting live music in here. It really made a difference."

Lex looked around. Along with the regulars there were a few groups of college age adults.

"I notice a younger crowd."

"Yeah. Cammy over there started singing two months ago, she's a favorite."

Lex turned to the singer. Not the model beauty types he usually went for, but with a sweet face and a sparkle to her eyes, he didn't turn away.

"As I sit here tonight, wrapped within your embrace…" She sang and closed her eyes. He watched her long fingers gently play the strings. Then her honey hair caught the light, she held out a note and Lex exhaled, the music flowing over his skin. A moment later she continued in the song and time resumed.

"…that everything that happens now will fade away as soon as dawn breaks, but I'm too scared to change it anyhow and once again, alone I will wake."

He finally turned back.

"Does she sing anywhere else?"

"Just here. She works as a waitress other nights."

Lex's gaze found Cammy again and Joe was amused at the kid becoming entranced. "Interested, Lex?"

Instantly, Lex was the controlled businessman and looked Joe in the eye.

"Not necessarily."

Joe took that to mean 'none of your business', but he always fancied himself a matchmaker, so ignored the warning.

"Well, just in case, she's sweet and funny, but keeps to herself."

The song ended and Lex joined in on the applause nonchalantly.

"Thank you, I'll be back in ten minutes." Cammy said into the mic.

Joe got out a coffee cup and put a tea bag in it as Cammy took off her guitar and walked toward the bar. Lex noticed she was just slightly shorter than he was. She reached the bar just as Joe finished pouring hot water in the cup. This close, Lex took note of her dark, green eyes. He wanted to see them in the sunlight. Cammy smelled the tea and smiled.

"Mmm, thanks Joe." Her throat was a bit raw from singing and the smoke that was constantly in the air.

Lex caught a whiff.

"I didn't know peppermint tea was on the menu."

Cammy listened to his voice which was confidant on the verge of being cocky, not her type. Yet she could hear undertones of gentleness just below the surface. She always liked a complex piece. Cammy took her first sip and glanced at the man next to her. He obviously was from a different class of people than the regulars here; he wore expensive clothes in good taste. The thing that caught her eye though, was his bald head, not a single hair. Cammy had seen men go bald at an early age, but this seemed different somehow, she wondered briefly what had happened. Then her eyes took in his soft mouth…and stopped there.

"It's not, she brings her own." Joe answered and then turned to Cammy. "Cammy, this is Lex Luther, part owner of this glorious place."

'Ah', thought Cammy,' that's why he's so full of himself, he's the one who inherited half the town from his daddy'; definitely not her type.

"I've heard your name before. Hi."

Joe casually walked away to help another customer and Lex turned fully to talk with the singer.

"I liked what I heard."

"Thanks, they're all original."

Lex nodded in appreciation. "Joe tells me you only sing here."

She gave him a wink.

"Low profile."

"That doesn't make sense with your career. You could perform in a lot of better places."

Cammy took another sip of her tea, trying not to leave immediately, that would be too rude.

"As someone whose benefiting from the profits here, I would think you'd want me to stay." Cammy couldn't stand people who tried to direct her career, since it couldn't go anywhere…

"I'm not saying to never sing here, but Smallville has other venues ('that I own' Lex thought), not to mention Metropolis."

"I just left there." Then Cammy wondered out loud, "do you always start conversations with business?"

Lex put his hands in his pockets and answered her seriously, "Only when it interests me."

Cammy finished up her tea to avoid his eyes; too sexy.

"Are you interested in me?" She asked, still looking at her cup.

Lex fully realized the double question, but decided to play it innocently—though innocent never really fit him.

"I think you have talent."

Cammy checked her watch.

"Thank you. If you'll excuse me, I have to sing again."

"May we talk after your set?" he asked with a slight smile.

"That's alright, but it was nice meeting you Lex."

Lex hid his surprise at the blow-off as she turned and walked away.

Cammy stepped onto the dimly lit stage.

Lex smiled to himself.

"Same here."

---

"Everything started two months ago," Chloe recapped to Clark and Lana Lang. They were all at the counter of The Talon. Lana was working behind it while the other two were seated on high stools. Lana ran the hip coffee house with the financial backing of Lex Luther. She didn't mind working with Lex. She knew most of the town thought he was greedy and ruthless, but Lana had only seen a smart businessman who had given her a chance. Through several unfortunate circumstances, Lana was on her own in this town. She went to school, ran The Talon and lived with Chloe. She tried her best to make her life what she wanted and counted on good friendships to make it worthwhile.

"What criteria are you using to count as one of the "mysterious coma" victims?"

Lana wasn't as interested in the drama of the story as getting the facts straight.

Clark looked at the petite girl and swallowed as she pushed a wayward strand of brown hair behind her ear. He wondered how he could be so affected by someone he had known practically his whole life.

"All the victims were found outside, at night and they're all young adults." Chloe answered.

Clark brought his thoughts back to the story.

"That's why it's so strange. Why would people so young fall into a coma?"

Lana shrugged, "Any head injuries?"

"No injuries anywhere." Chloe had checked it all out. She was born to be a journalist, seeing stories and digging around to find all the answers. Much to her frustration, she couldn't find the answers to everything, but she kept trying.

Clark added, "No robberies either."

"A virus?" Lana kept one eye on the rest of the coffee house, but her mind was on the conversation. Chloe shook her head.

"That only strikes outside and at night?"

"And they were all alone." Clark finished the list of facts and they were all baffled. Chloe leaned back into the stool and muttered, "Smallville…"

The next week, Lex walked into Joe's Dive, hoping to get to know the singer better. He needed a distraction from work and she would definitely be a nice one. He vaguely remembered an echo of her voice from his dreams.

It was in the middle of the week, so he knew she was working as a waitress. As soon as he finished closing the door behind him he was bombarded by a yell.

"We're closed!" It was from Charice, a middle-age waitress who didn't even look up from wiping down a table.

"Good evening, Charice."

She looked up briefly and continued with her work, never liking the fact that Lex was a part of this business. Rich folk and the hard-working people in this town didn't mix.

Joe stopped sweeping. "Hey, Lex."

Lex walked slowly with his hands in his pockets. Joe had a small suspicion why the kid was here again.

"I was looking for Camille." Lex asked.

"Camille?" Joe furrowed his brow, not expecting that name.

Just then Cammy walked out of the kitchen, having recognized Lex's voice.

"Hello Lex." She gave him a small smile.

One corner of Lex's mouth turned up at her appearance. She had put in a full day of hard work, but hadn't lost the sparkle that attracted him.

"I thought I'd give you a ride home."

"Why do you think I need one?" was her quick retort.

Lex was unfazed, "there are only two cars in the lot and I recognize them."

Joe shook his head at the kid's gumption and turned to Cammy.

"He's alright."

Cammy pursed her lips, now being forced into a situation she hadn't chosen.

"Thanks a lot Joe."

"You don't have to accept, I was just---" Lex was starting to doubt the wisdom of pursuing this one.

"No, it's fine, really." Cammy shrugged, trying to put him at ease. She didn't want him to feel bad and she could certainly use a ride home. She hated having to drive with Charice every evening. That woman had a mouth…

"I appreciate it. I'll get my stuff."

She walked away and Joe wiggled his eyebrows at Lex. Lex gave him a blank look, but Joe started whistling as he swept.

The drive had been quiet for the first several minutes. The soft leather seats of Lex's car were more comfortable than any bed Cammy had been on in years. She tried to stay awake, but she could also smell his sweet-spicy cologne…

"Where do you live?" Lex asked.

Cammy sat up straight, feeling like an idiot.

"Sorry. I'm staying at Duke's Motel."

Lex kept himself from wincing at the name of that disgusting motel and wished he could offer her a better place to spend the night.

"On Elm, right?"

"Yeah, 'a friendly place where the roaches know you by name'." She answered dryly.

Lex smiled.

After a minute Cammy turned to him. "So why did you call me Camille?"

"I thought that was your name."

"Maybe if I was a little rich socialite."

Lex didn't like her tone about rich people, but hated the name 'Cammy' more. It sounded too much like a waitress and not like the singer he was attracted to.

"Do you mind if I call you that?"

Cammy took the question seriously and remembered the last time someone had called her by her real name. She stopped the thought immediately and decided she shouldn't care.

"If it pleases you, Sir Lex."

"What?" Lex wasn't sure if she was trying to imply something or was just being silly.

"I've only been here a couple of months, but I've heard you're the closest thing to royalty this town's got."

Lex sighed and Cammy thought she had made a mistake, but was too tired to worry about it.

"Yeah, they look forward to beheading me" Lex quipped. Cammy laughed at that and Lex loved the sound, smiling back. He turned a corner and then mused, "I'm half-serious. Sometimes I feel like this whole town is on my back just waiting for me to mess up. I suppose everyone needs someone to hate."

'Whoa,' thought Lex, 'I better ease up on the confessions.' Most people didn't like to hear rich people whining on how tough their lives were.

"Must get heavy." Cammy said.

Lex stopped at a light and looked at her confused.

"Excuse me?"

Cammy smirked, "you know, the whole town on your back…" Lex gave her the tiniest smile and Cammy thought about how tired she must be to have thought of that one. She sighed and realized she was enjoying his company. Then her thoughts turned to his comment.

"I know what you mean, though." She continued looking out the window as the light turned green. "Always feeling like you're being watched so they can get you when you least expect it." Lex's expensive sports car glided out.

"Who's on your back?" Lex was curious by Cammy's sudden seriousness.

Cammy pursed her lips and conveniently they reached the motel just then.

"There it is."

Lex pulled in smoothly and got out. He opened her door before she could. She loved it.

"Thank you, kind sir."

"Anytime, Camille." He shut the door and they both turned to look at the hotel: a dimly lit, unpalace of a place. Again, Lex had to stop himself from offering her a nicer bed.

"I'd love to hear you sing again." He said instead.

"Every Friday. I start at nine."

"Maybe we could go out when you're finished?"

"Maybe," she offered.

Lex accepted that. "Well, I enjoyed talking with you. I don't usually confess my problems with people I just met. I'm not sure what came over me."

Cammy nodded, smiling. "Yeah, from the confident, yet defensive stance and constant smirk, I didn't exactly take you for the soul-baring type." She finally got him to laugh and wanted to be able to do it again.

"I'll see you Friday."

"Sure." He smiled and she walked away. Halfway to her room she turned back, amused to see that he hadn't moved. She kept walking, smiling to herself.

It was Friday morning and Clark was diligently taking notes in American History when a square folded note was tossed onto his desk. He looked up at the boy next to him and the boy pointed across the room at Chloe. She was looking at Clark and motioned him to open the note. Clark glanced at the teacher who was droning on and read it:

"Clark, two more this week! Meet me at the hospital

after school, one of then woke up!"

"I'm sorry," the nurse's voice was nasally," that patient was discharged this morning."

Clark and Chloe were at a desk at Smallville's hospital. Clark tried to turn away, but Chloe grabbed his sleeve and gave the nurse a sweet smile.

"I don't suppose we could have her name and address?"

"No." It was a final answer.

Chloe took a breath to try again, but Clark spoke quickly, "Thank you anyway, Ma'am."

He drew Chloe away and she sighed.

"Now what?"

"Phone book."

Chloe rolled her eyes; Clark had good ideas, but didn't always think them through.

"We don't have a name, remember?"

Clark grinned.

"I sneaked a look at the computer screen while you were first talking with the nurse."

'Oh' Chloe smiled back. Then she looked at her tall, muscular friend.

"I'll call Lana too. The two of us will go over and talk to the victim."

Clark crossed his arms in front of his wide chest, "why not me?"

"You're a guy and she may have been attacked. You'll make her nervous." She hoped he would understand. Chloe knew Clark was harmless, but he certainly didn't look like a wimp.

"Oh." Clark was disappointed. He teased Chloe about how excited she got over a story, but he was also really interested in reporting. It seemed to be one thing he was good at in school. His powers weren't exactly things he could put on a college application. He didn't want to intimidate anyone though.

Chloe was quick to reassure him, "but I'll call you if we get anything good."

That night Clark was having dinner with his parents. The small dining room was filled with the good smells of his mom's cooking. The conversation had started out light with his dad quoting something funny from the paper, but Clark wasn't listening very well. He didn't like keeping secrets from them, the two people in the world he could trust. So he started telling them about the story he, Chloe and Lana were working on. As he continued, the mood became somber.

"But we don't know for certain if it's really an attacker or not."

Jonathan waved his fork at his over-eager son and said, "don't go looking for trouble, Clark. It finds you easily enough."

The phone rang just then and Clark got up to answer it.

"Hello?"

"Clark, can you come to the coffee shop tonite?"

Clark recognized Chloe's voice.

"Hold on." He turned to his parents and asked politely, "May I go to The Talon?"

"Did you finish your homework?" His mother, Martha asked. Clark may be able to bend steel, but his parents were still in charge while he was under their roof.

He nodded.

Martha turned to Jonathan. "I don't see why not."

Clark and Chloe were seated at their regular seats at the counter of The Talon. It was a busy night, as Friday's usually were and Lana was making an espresso. She turned off the machine to continue their conversation. The smell wafted over them.

"So she was being attacked when a stranger came by and scared the guy away." She and Chloe were telling Clark about the interview with the victim. It was a good thing he hadn't gone, the young girl had been a nervous wreck.

"He didn't get to finish, that's why I think she didn't stay in a coma." Chloe said.

"Finish what? What was he doing to her?" Clark wanted to know. They all wanted to know.

"She doesn't exactly remember." Lana answered as she put two cups on a tray. "They were kissing and…"

"She knew him?" Clark perked up, that would help find the attacker.

Lana smiled at Clark, "They only met that night."

He almost blushed.

"Oh."

Lana continued, "she said he led her down an alley where they kissed. She only remembers looking into his eyes."

Clark sighed, exasperated, "That's it? He kissed her into a coma?" Lana smiled and finished making the coffee drinks.

"Obviously there's more." Chloe was just as annoyed at the lack of information, "but she doesn't remember."

Lana cut a piece of cheesecake and placed it on a plate. "At least we know there's a person responsible for this."

"Did you get a description?" Clark looked at them both and they exchanged helpless glances.

"Tall, dark and handsome." Chloe muttered.

Clark rolled his eyes and glanced to the door. He saw Lex walking by.

"Hey, it's Lex. I'll be right back."

They watched him leave and both wondered about the friendship between their high school friend and the richest man in town. Lex and Clark seemed so different.

Outside, Clark caught up with Lex.

"Hey!"

Lex turned and was pleasantly surprised to see his young friend, sometimes only friend in this town. Lex was surrounded by greed and corruption in his business life and it was nice to know good people like Clark and his parents still existed.

"Hello Clark. Visiting Lana?" Lex was always hoping Clark would get the nerve up to go after the girl he so obviously wanted.

"Yeah, where are you going?"

"Joe's Dive."

Clark raised his eyebrows. He knew of the place and could never picture Lex dining in it. Then he had a thought. "Do you own it?"

Lex smiled, guessing Clark's reasoning.

"Partly, but that's not why I'm going. There's a woman performing there who's a really good singer. Did you want to join me?"

"Nah, I can't stay out that late, maybe another time."

"You should. She's really impressive."

Clark looked at Lex curiously, and then narrowed his eyes. "Are you just talking about her singing?"

Lex smiled at the teen, "Well…I'll see about that."

Clark smiled back, slightly embarrassed. "I'll see you later then."

"Bye, Clark."

Clark watched Lex walk away for a moment, wishing he could be as confident. Lex seemed to know how to act in any situation without being awkward. Maybe it was because he was older; Clark hoped that was the case.

Then turning away, he saw a tall man in a dark coat come out of the coffee shop. He was walking in the opposite direction of Lex. Something about him made Clark curious and he started to follow.

After a few blocks the man turned a corner. Clark followed and then looked around, not seeing anyone.

A low voice came suddenly from behind him.

"Looking for me?"

Clark spun to find the man standing in the shadows.

Sebastian liked the look of the boy in front of him. 'He's got a lot of power to give me.'

Clark noticed there was no one else around.

"I was just walking to the coffeehouse." Although Clark wasn't afraid for himself, he tried to avoid fights.

"You're going in the wrong direction." Sebastian walked slowly closer to Clark. "It's a few blocks back that way, you know, where you started following me." He kept his voice low, but the danger within it was obvious.

"Stay away." Clark looked for a way out that wouldn't force him to use his powers. He had only followed a hunch about this man and now he was about to be attacked. Clark wished a police officer would show up right about now. That way he wouldn't have to hurt this man and the attacker would still get caught. Well, maybe not the police, they already had a file on Clark who always seemed to be in the wrong place and the wrong time.

Sebastian was now only a foot away. Clark backed up to the wall and Sebastian smiled seductively. Women were always easier targets; he knew which ones liked a little danger. But this boy exuded strength that Sebastian craved.

"Look at me."

Eye to eye, inches from each other, Sebastian stared intently at Clark. Clark could smell coffee on Sebastian's breath. Then he felt something strange from inside his eyes…

Clark quickly shoved Sebastian, sending him flying through the air. Sebastian landed hard in a pile of garbage, yelling in pain. The noise shattered the night air.

Clark watched wide-eyed as Sebastian started to get up fast. That fall should have knocked him out and Clark realized he was playing a more dangerous game. Needing time to think, he sped away.

Sebastian turned to find the alley deserted. He touched his cheek, which had a nasty cut and cursed.

At the same time Clark was running from the alley, Lex stepped into Joe's Dive. He joined the noisy crowd and headed towards Cammy who was setting up by the stage.

She looked up and her heart jumped at the sight of Lex. Watching him walk casually, hands in his pocket, a small smile on his face—damn, he was sexy. Thinking of what might happen after the show, she smiled. Then winced because the smile hurt the small cut on her cheek. She dabbed at it again with a tissue, annoyed.

Lex reached the stage and noticed, frowning.

"What happened?"

"Hello to you, too."

"Are you alright?"

"Sure. I must have scratched myself accidentally." She put the tissue in her pocket and shrugged nonchalantly, "It'll distract me from being nervous."

Lex shook his head, "You'll be fine. Just be more careful."

He gave her a smile before walking to a table. As soon as he turned away, her own smile faded and she touched her cheek. She had hoped tonite would go smoothly. Knowing full well the risks she took with Lex, Cammy couldn't help herself. She had to escape reality once in a while or she'd go crazy.

Clark rushed into the coffee shop, sending the bells on the door ringing and almost knocking a lady over.

He apologized quickly and then joined Chloe and Lana at the counter, heart still thumping from his encounter with Sebastian. Clark figured they could go to the police with a better description now. He certainly saw the man up close. Though thinking about it…

Lana and Chloe looked up and were taken aback.

"What happened?" Lana asked.

"You disappeared on us." Chloe kept from adding, 'again.' Clark's way of running off or suddenly vanishing was becoming a bit of a legend within the group of friends.

"I found him! The attacker!" Clark burst out.

Chloe jumped off her stool, knowing there was little time to waste; this was their big break!

"Where?"

"I followed him a few blocks down."

Chloe immediately headed to the door.

"Chloe, where are you going?" Lana hated when they rushed off into potentially dangerous situations.

"To try to find him, of course." She opened the door.

"He just tried to attack me!" Clark called out.

"That's because you were alone, come on!" Chloe bounded out the door.

Lana sighed, turning to Clark. "I can't leave, you better go after her."

Clark hurried after Chloe half-wishing he could just grab her and keep her from getting hurt.

Clark ran out and caught up with Chloe, maybe if the man saw him, he would run away, knowing Clark could identify him.

"Which way?" She asked. Clark automatically pointed, and then almost cursed as Chloe started running. 'That was stupid. Why couldn't I have pointed a different way?'

"Stop! You don't want to end up in a coma." Clark kept up with her, hoping the attacker had left.

"He only attacks people who are alone, we'll be fine." Chloe only had thoughts of questioning the mysterious man, tying him to the attacks and then calling the cops—with a great story for The Torch on the side.

"Now what did he look like?" She was looking around the street for anyone suspicious as they made their way.

Clark opened his mouth, but then had to think about it. "Well, it wasn't a well-lit alley, but he was…um…tall, dark hair…"

Chloe rounded on him, "Don't you dare say 'handsome'."

They came to the alley, but it was empty. Clark was relieved. Chloe then looked down both sides of the street out of the alley and exhaled sharply. Why did Clark get all the excitement?

Lex only had eyes for Cammy who was finishing her last song for the evening at Joe's Dive.

"If I hold your hand will you squeeze mine?

Will you leap with me and fly?

You affect me with everything you do,

Just say my name and I sigh…

Mmm….

Just say my name and I sigh…"

After much applause, Cammy said smiling, "Thanks, I'll see you next Friday." It went so well! The adrenaline from performing still coursed through her as she put away her guitar and thought about what the rest of the evening would be like.

Lex approached, more impressed than ever.

"Great show, really."

"Thank you." She grinned.

He helped her wrap up the wires to her amp and asked casually.

"Any plans tonite?"

"Yeah, I was going to spend the night at a friend's house."

He looked at her closely, trying to tell whether she was serious or not.

Her face was turned away. "Want to come?"

"Whose house?" He asked.

Cammy stood up and finished putting away her equipment.

"Yours."

Lex and Cammy were strolling down the enormous length of one of the hallways in the Luther mansion. Cammy had barely said a word; just taking in the luxury he lived in every day. Lex continued with his tour.

"…and back that way is my office, but down here is where I…"

Cammy interrupted, "I can't do this, Lex."

"Why? What's wrong?" He was suddenly on guard.

"I'm sorry, but it's the money."

Lex's face hardened.

Cammy was looking away.

"I just don't want to be taken advantage of---"

Lex sighed, not having expected this from her. Whatever he could do to put her at ease…

"Cammy, listen," his voice was soft, "I would never---"

"No, no. I'm just sick of guys going after me for my money."

Lex cocked his head, not sure if he heard right.

She turned, valiantly trying not to smile, but her eyes were twinkling. In that split second, Lex realized she was putting him on and stepped up close, a half-smile on his face.

"Obviously, you're strapped", she continued, "and looking for a way out and…"

Lex grabbed her then, silencing her with a kiss. She put her arms around him, deepening it till there was no joking left.

Later that evening, Sebastian was in the midst of an attack, holding a woman up against the wall. The strange blue light was coursing between them until he wrenched himself away, breathing heavily. She slumped onto the ground and he took no notice.

Sebastian stood for a minute reveling in the energy that pumped in his veins, lips parted. The sky was clear and the moon shone with a brilliance he felt. He took a step away and then suddenly leaned back against the wall himself. He put his hand up to his head, feeling flushed. Sebastian frowned as his breathing became heavy again and he tried to figure out what was happening to him. This wasn't normal…it was getting hard to think…and then he let out a small groan…of pleasure…

The dream faded and Lex woke up, feeling very good this morning. He grinned and rolled over on the silk sheets. He found he was alone and the grin faded. There was a note.

"Meet me after work tonight?

I'll give you $20 for last night---kidding!

I mean only $5…

Lex smiled to himself, planning for the evening ahead.

Lana had an early crowd that Saturday. The woman who brought the baked goods had only dropped them off an hour ago and they were almost gone. Clearing off a table, she saw Clark walk in. She watched the way he walked. He was almost too careful, like he was afraid he'd hurt someone or wasn't quite comfortable with his own body. He saw her and smiled broadly. She answered it and once again wondered at the secrets behind his eyes.

"Hi Clark. I thought you were stopping by tonite."

"Oh, I am." He followed her to the kitchen where she put down the tray of dirty dishes.

"I just wanted to drop something off that might help us with the mysterious coma story." He reached into his pocket and handed her a slip of yellow carbon paper.

"A credit card receipt?" She asked.

"I went back to the place I was attacked," he explained, "hoping to find something that he might have dropped and I guess that fell out of his pocket."

She looked at it more carefully.

"Oh! If he got this from the shop here, I might be able to find something about him!"

Clark nodded, "I'll come back tonite."

Lazy Saturday strolled by, oblivious to the excitement of those with evening plans. The sun finally set and the lights of the small town brightened up the streets.

Inside The Talon, Chloe was seated at the counter sipping a mocha latte when Clark sat down next to her. She pushed away the flutter in her heart.

"Hi Clark. Lana checked out that receipt you found."

"And?" His eyebrows rose.

Lana came over just then.

"Sebastian Tayes is his name. I probably served him. Isn't that creepy? "

Chloe unfolded a computer print out, "I took the liberty of checking him out."

"I figured you would." Clark smiled.

Chloe read out loud," He was born in Smallville in 1976. There's no record of him graduating high school, but there is something interesting here."

"Jamal and Natasha Tayes." Clark read over her shoulder, " His parents I take it?"

Chloe nodded, "Both died mysteriously in their home in 1990."

"He would have been fourteen at the time." Lana added, "and definitely been in Smallville at the time of the meteor shower." They thought about what it all meant.

"Maybe his abilities only showed up as he got older." Clark said, recalling his own experiences.

Chloe sat back, "So he got mad at his parents one day and knocked them off?"

"It could have been an accident." Lana didn't like jumping to conclusions.

Clark agreed, "If he suddenly found out about his power to put people in a coma, he might not have known what he could do until it was too late." Clark wanted to give Sebastian the benefit of the doubt. He could recall many times when his lack of control over his own powers could have hurt people he loved.

Chloe imagined it all and felt bad for the confused teen Sebastian might have been. "He would have gotten really scared and maybe ran away."

"Well, he's not a scared little boy now." Lana said practically.

They looked at each other. Clark took a deep breath.

"So what now? We still don't have solid proof against him."

"We don't even know what he's doing." Lana added. They thought they had something, but then it lead to nowhere.

Clark knew he had to stop Sebastian somehow. But if they couldn't tie him to the comas, it would be hard to do much with the authorities. He shrugged, "All he did was look at me…"

Lex walked into Joe's Dive, brushing against Sebastian going out.

"Excuse me." Sebastian said politely.

Lex barely glanced at him, "No problem."

Sebastian left and Lex looked around the place for Cammy. It was smoky and the smell of the cheap food assaulted his refined nose. For a moment he wondered what he was doing with a waitress here who lived in a cheap motel, but squashed the thought. Even if last night hadn't happened, and he was glad it did, he still would want to see her again…and again. As the saying goes, she was under his skin.

Cammy tried for the second time to pour the coffee into the cup without spilling it, her hands were shaking badly. Then she jumped when an arm snaked around her. She spun around.

"Oh, Lex! I'm sorry."

"I'm sorry." Lex said at the same time. He helped her clean the coffee she spilt on the tray.

"No, no, I just didn't expect you this early." She tried to slow her breathing.

"I didn't think it would be a problem." Lex saw how tense she was and started to doubt.

Cammy poured the coffee again and this time didn't spill it.

"Oh, no, its not-- its just, I needed to tell you anyway that," Lex noticed that she was totally avoiding eye contact, "that I can't see you tonite, I'm sorry." she finished.

Lex put both hands on her shoulders,

"Camille, you're shaking."

She waved him off, "Oh, I'm just tired, it's nothing."

Lex wasn't assuaged, "Is it us? Last night?" He asked quietly.

She was quickly shook her head,

"No, no! It has nothing to do with you, Lex; I mean, really, there's nothing. I just had a hard day." She gave him a smile, "that's all."

He dropped his hands, but was still concerned. Lex didn't know all of Cammy's moods, but this seemed a bit much.

Cammy hated him worrying. "I still want to see you, just not tonite."

"Are you off tomorrow?" He asked.

She brightened, "All day."

"Well, if I can't see you tonite, how about breakfast?"

Cammy frowned, knowing that would be impossible, but didn't want to make him think anything was wrong.

"I doubt I'll be able to get up early. I mean, I sleep late when I don't have to work. How about lunch?" 'Please,' she thought, 'don't press it'. Everything was going so well between them…

He smiled, "Sure, I'll pick you up around one."

She took his face in her hands and kissed him sweetly. All his doubts erased. They were interrupted with a sharp voice, "I don't care if he does own half the place, get back to work!" Lex and Cammy turned to see Joe mock scowling at them.

"Sorry Joe." Lex turned back to Cammy. "I'll see you tomorrow then. Good night, Camille."

She squeezed his hand, "'night", and watched him walk out. Her smile faded to a look of despair.

"Cammy!" Joe reminded her. She quickly grabbed the tray.

The coffee shop finally closed, much to Lana's relief. She was happy business was going well, but she got tired out some days. This was one of them. Luckily, Clark was helping her finish up by stacking the chairs. When he was done, she came over.

"Thanks for helping me out, Clark."

"No problem. It's a weekend, so I can stay out later." He put his hands in his pockets self-consciously. They were alone in the shop and Clark was egging himself on in his head, 'come on, ask her what she's doing tomorrow.'

Then Lana turned and Clark felt the moment slip away.

She called over her shoulder, "I just have a few more things here; you can go."

"Alright. I'll call you tomorrow?" It was the best he could do. Lana turned back and smiled at him. Clark's knees melted. Somehow he managed to keep standing…

"Sure," she answered, "Chloe wanted to go to the field days, are you coming?"

'If you're there, I wouldn't miss it'.

"Yeah, I'll meet you guys," was what he said out loud.

Clark closed the door behind him as he left The Talon. The night was cool and he walked with a bounce to his step thinking about Lana. Glancing up, he spotted Sebastian a few blocks away. Clark stopped and saw that Sebastian was leading a girl into an alley. Clark ran to catch up; he couldn't let Sebastian put someone else in a coma. 'If I can't stop him, who can?'

Right before he came to the alley, he stopped to listen. He heard Sebastian's low, husky voice. "Now, open your eyes for me."

Clark quickly stepped around to confront him and found Sebastian face to face with a woman.

"Stop!" Clark yelled.

Sebastian recovered from his surprise quickly, "Ah, you're back."

Cammy was only an arm's length away from Sebastian. She turned to see the tall, young boy and called to him. "No!"

Clark stepped closer and tried to look menacing. "Get away from her!"

Sebastian laughed and let go of Cammy, but she stayed by the wall, heart beginning to pound.

Clark turned to her. "Go! Run away from here!"

Cammy still didn't move, but spoke urgently to the Clark, "you have to leave, quickly!"

Clark looked from Sebastian back to Cammy. This wasn't going as planned…not that he'd had a plan. Clark couldn't understand why she wasn't leaving.

"He's going to hurt you, Miss. I'll protect you, but you have to run!"

Sebastian debated grabbing the kid now, but wanted to hear what he said next. It was all very entertaining listening to the two of them try to save each other and Cammy was just so upset… amusing.

"You don't understand. Just leave us alone." Cammy pleaded with Clark. 'Why didn't the kid just leave?'

Sebastian crossed his arms and stepped closer to Clark.

"I could go for a full meal tonite."

Cammy gasped, "Sebastian, no! Let him go!"

"I can defend myself", Clark was quick to point out, "but you should get out of here before he—"

"Look, I know what he's going to do, ok?" Cammy stepped in front of Sebastian, her voice rising, "will you just leave while you have the chance?"

She barely reached his chest, but her eyes were blazing. Clark didn't know how to get through to this woman. He looked at her seriously.

"It's not just kissing!"

Sebastian howled with laughter. "Cammy knows what its all about it boy, and she wants it."

Clark looked uncertainly at them both. This wasn't right. How could he convince her before Sebastian attacked? Clark was used to rushing into a situation and acting fast on his feet, but he never needed to convince someone they needed help before.

He stepped closer to Cammy and she yelled," I don't want your help, now just go!" 'Is the boy a complete fool?'

Sebastian, getting tired of this, shoved Clark away. Not expecting it, Clark stumbled, then turned quickly and punched Sebastian. Sebastian went down and Clark figured he'd just grab the woman and run.

But as soon as he punched Sebastian, she yelled in pain. Startled, Clark looked at her and she was holding her cheek. Confused, Clark paused and Sebastian stood up, cheek bloody, furious for having his evening ruined. Clark looked from Sebastian to Cammy and back

"Go" Cammy screamed, "you don't understand!"

Sebastian suddenly threw himself at Clark and they tumbled to the ground. Clark smashed Sebastian in the stomach, throwing him off. Cammy doubled over in pain.

Clark jumped up and Cammy grimaced, "Please, just leave," she stumbled to the wall, "you're hurting me…"

Sebastian pulled himself up, angrier now and rounded on Clark, but Clark was gone.

Cammy sighed and straightened up, wincing.

"Quite a punch."

Sebastian's lips pursed as he controlled his anger. His fists clenched and unclenched before he turned back to Cammy a minute later, long coat swirling around his feet. He ignored his cut cheek and sore gut.

"Definitely a strange kid." He agreed, looking at her. Her cheek wasn't as serious a wound as his, since he was the one who took the impact, but he always healed quickly. Sebastian also wondered how the boy had knocked him around so easily. He wasn't used to it and didn't like it. Sebastian figured he must be running low. That thought brought a nasty smile.

He walked over to Cammy, leering, wanting to forget the little episode.

"Shall we continue?"

Cammy closed her eyes; "I don't understand why we can't just do this at the motel."

His voice dropped deeper as he stepped up by the wall. "Because I want you now".

For a moment, her thoughts leaped to Lex, wondering what they might be doing if she was with him instead. Cammy opened her eyes, only to glare. Through clenched teeth she answered him.

"Fine".