Nothing More
Justice League Press Conference
Superman stood at the podium as Wonder Woman stood by his side with the rest of the League behind them.
"The Justice League will continue to fight and protect all citizens. We are sadden by live that have been lost and it is not always preventable with tragedies. But we all have to do our best," Superman stated.
"I have a question for Wonder Woman," a random civilian woman said.
Superman stepped back for Wonder Woman to step forward to the podium.
"Yes?"
"You stated that your mission is to be an inspiration to women, yet, you are put on a high pedestal, us normal women cannot reach."
"As Superman said, we all have to do our best and that means with anything. That is no way to live trying to compare with other individuals be your best."
"Tsk." The woman rolled her eyes.
Superman frowned and stepped in front of Wonder Woman before anything else was said. "Thank you for your time."
The crowd started talking at once, calling to get the attention and more interviews with the other members.
Superman smiled and took Wonder Woman's hand.
Zatanna and Black Canary giggled.
"What are you two laughing at?" Vixen asked.
"Big Blue and Princess having their usual flirting session."
Vixen rolled her eyes and smirked. "Why won't they just get a room?"
"They probably already have," Hawkgirl said.
"You think?" Zatanna asked.
"Just look at them. Princess giving basically bedroom eyes and Big Blue can't keep his eyes up."
They all laughed.
"Excuse me. But my inquirement was cut off."
Superman and Wonder Woman looked at the woman from the crowd.
"I'm sorry. Is there any other concerns?" Wonder Woman asked.
"You've caused more problems than helped. Ever since you "saved" my husband from his accident, while I do appreciate it, my husband can't stop obsessing over you. There is a whole women's group dedicated to us wives having problems with our husbands because you heroines are like fantasy football on a whole other level for our men."
"Well…I'm sorry. I don't mean any disrespect to you."
"Just stay far away or cover up."
Wonder Woman frowned. "Excuse me but what I wear should not be dictated because of a man I do not know have a problem being faithful to his wife."
The woman frowned. "Look here!"
"Hey, that's enough. Your problem is not with Wonder Woman. Once you get home, you will see the real problem. I suggest you go quickly."
Superman took Wonder Woman's hand again and flew up to the sky with her.
"Why did you tell her to hurry home?"
"Her husband is at home. Not alone."
"Oh..." Diana gave him a curious look. "Where are we going?"
"There's a new café that just opened up. We will go check it out."
Alluremour
Sapphyre sat on a bench in the enchanted garden. She listened as the tower bell rang, a sign that Queen Marcella has a royal announcement.
Emerging from the palace's large balcony, Marcella looked out the people of Alluremour, who stood below.
"My lovely people. I know we all have been in mourning for our beloved King, my husband, Julius. But Julius would want us to move forward and I have decided that it is time for a new King. The new King will not replace King Julius in our hearts, but he, who will be chosen shall make a fine King."
Joyous cheers came from the crowd.
"I am glad to see that you all understand this difficult time. But we must do what must be done to ensure the continuity of peace and happiness. I know that this decision breaks tradition of the next heir being of royal blood but it is time for a new tradition!"
The crowd roared with excitement.
"That is all for now, my people!"
Marcella turned with Octavion following behind.
"Oh how I love how much my people adore me!" with a wicked smile upon her lips. "I am in control of all their petty little minds."
"You make an extraordinary Queen, my lovely sister."
"Well of course."
Still sitting on the bench picked a flower. "The true life of Alluremour has been drained. Your people are being blinded by evil. If only you were here." She dropped the flower and held her head down and a single tear ran down her cheek. "Julius."
Downtown Metropolis
Changing into civilian clothing, Clark and Diana walked the rest of the way to the café.
Going inside, they looked around. It was really big but still over crowded. "Looks like this place already got alot of buzz."
"They have to do something about this overcrowded situation."
"We can sit there," Clark pointed at a table in the corner.
Diana sat at the table and Clark got something to drink. She didn't take her eyes off of him as he stood at the counter giving the order. He returned a few moments later, set the cappuccino down in front of her and sat next to her.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome."
She looked at him and slowly sipped her drink.
"So is that the first time someone has come up to you like that?" Clark asked.
"No, it's not often though. Majority of the time it's whispers as if I can't hear them or articles with fabrications. I know my own truth so it doesn't get too bothersome."
As Clark gently took her hand, Diana looked up at him.
"As long as you don't let it get to you."
"Of course not, Kal," Diana smiled. "It might have been of a surprise with the unreasonable animosity when it firsted started but I'm not too worried about it. You shouldn't either."
"That's all I care about is how you feel, Diana ," Clark said in a soft gentle tone. He looked deep in her eyes and whispered, "I'm only focused on you and if anything is bothering you, you can tell me."
"That goes for you, too."
Diana leaned over and kissed his cheek. Then she looked into his eyes again, the most beautiful blue color she had ever seen. "There's one thing I want to know."
"What's that?"
Why do you care so much?" She asked as her heart started beating faster.
"That's something I can't answer fully right now," he said.
Diana looked down at her cup.
"Part of it is that, you are my best friend. The one person I trust the most and who I know will always be right by my side with anything or correct me if I'm wrong. I'll do the same for you, Di."
Diana smiled. Clark smiled back. Their faces were centimeters apart and they slowly moved closer.
"Superman. This is Cyborg. Come in, Superman."
They both pulled back. Clark cleared his throat.
"Um...yeah, I'm here."
"We need you and Wonder Woman to head to the central docks."
"On our way."
Alluremour
Marcella stared at the large portrait of the late King Julius.
"Oh Julius, my dear."
Never in her life had she seen anyone so handsome, so noble.
She thought back to the first time she had met him. Being a mere servant at the palace, she thought it would be hard for him to notice her because there were other potentials that would capture his heart. She found that he was never around, never alone, always doing something. It took her at least two years to be able to speak with Julius alone and that was only because she had "accidently" tripped and almost broke a priceless statue. From then, she felt that they were able to talk more and get closer. That was perfect because it was time for him to pick his queen.
Marcella was starting to lose her temper and her mind by this point, thinking of the woman that had trapped Clayton. She tricked him, using her seductive ways to get him to marry her. She was not fit to be queen. Though he did realize he made a mistake and confessed his love for Marcella. The woman was still a threat and Marcella had to get rid of her. But she still did not trust Julius
"You were not the man I thought you were Julius. Even if you were, you let your kindness control you. Don't worry, I will be in good hands but my heart will always belong to you."
"Marcella, the portal is ready." Octavion said.
Marcella looked at him, her gaze intimidating. "Good."
Gotham, Wayne Manor
The cab driver opened the door for Diana.
She got out and smiled. "Thank you."
She rung the door bell, Alfred answered the door.
"Good Evening, Miss Prince, come in," he greeted. "The festivities are in the backyard. Mr. Jordan, Mr. and Mrs. Curry, Ms. Lance, Mr. Queen and Mr. Allen has already arrived."
Diana nodded.
The "backyard" had been transformed into a formal, yet festive venue. Tea lights, strung from the trees and the balcony of the house added to the illumination already given by the moon. The guests conversed amongst each other, pausing occasionally to sip their champagne or to taste the hors d'oeuvres offered by the caterers.
She didn't see Clark yet.
She mingled Arthur and Mera for a bit and then went to get something to drink.
Clark still hadn't arrived.
Just then she felt someone hands on her hips.
"Waiting for someone?" he whispered in her ear, sending a tingling feeling down her spine.
"Hello to you, too, Kal," she turned around and smiled at him. She surveyed him. "You are looking very handsome."
It was his turn to smile at her. They stood there for a minute just looking in each other's eyes.
"You always look beautiful."
"I was wondering when you were coming?"
"I'm sorry. Helped Jimmy sort out some photos."
"It's okay. I'm just glad you were able to make it."
"Wouldn't miss this. Bruce actually decided to throw a party for his Birthday."
"But he isn't here."
"I think he is having his own private party with Ms. Kyle. They'll show up much later."
Ruby Evon's Boutique
Ruby was finishing the last dress that needed to be altered.
"You know, after 25 years of this... I should be faster."
"Or just use your powers."
"No...no, I haven't relied on my powers since...well you know."
"I miss her, too."
"Has there been a change in plans?"
"No. Our Queen advise that we continue to move forward in our roles. Our chosen ones' time is coming closer."
Ruby nodded. "As she wishes."
Diana and Mera were talking when all of a sudden a man stepped up to them.
"Excuse me, but could I have a word with you?" He smiled referring to Diana.
"I will go find my husband." Mera walked away.
He shook Diana's hand. "Phillip. Phillip Roy Ashby Jr. You've might have heard of me."
"I'm sorry. No I haven't. "
"Ah, you aren't from around here, are you?"
"No, I'm not."
"Yes, see I suspected you would've seen my, if I do say so myself, handsome face on the billboards. I just recently took over my family's very successful law firm."
"Oh well congratulations."
"Thank you. Thank you," he laughed slightly. "But enough about me, what's your name, gorgeous?"
"Diana Prince."
"And what do you do, Miss Prince? If you don't mind me asking."
"I work for the UN as an Ambassador."
"Really, now? Well Miss Prince, if I say so myself, my timing is perfect."
Diana arched her brow.
Clark glanced over John Stewart's shoulder. He saw Diana talking to Phillip and became instantly irritated.
Clark covered a story and had an interview with him because he took over the family firm. He was very annoying trying to act like a cocky playboy.
But Clark knew it wasn't right for him to act or feel this way. He and Diana were nothing more than best friends and crossing any line couldn't and wouldn't happen. There was no harm in friendly flirting but he couldn't let the deep feelings he have be known.
"Well Miss. Prince, are you free Wednesday night. So Dinner? We can get more aquainted."
Diana was hesitant.
"My firm is setting up a charity event. An auction of sorts. We want to start helping more and more with families that have low income and or suffered tragedies. Please, attend. I won't take no for an answer." He flashed a charming smile.
Phillip did seem like the type that would keep talking until she said yes. If it weren't for it actually being for charity she would've let him down and have already walked away.
"Yes...sure."
Clark was trying his best not to listen but when he heard that Diana had agreed, it was like a Kryptonite arrow shot through his heart.
"So I'll see you Wednesday, Miss. Prince. I have to run." He winked and walked away.
Diana rolled her eyes and hurried back to Clark. She latched on to his arm.
"I saw Bruce is making his rounds greeting a few people. Right on time to sing Happy Birthday. You and I can share a piece of cake."
Clark smiled. "We are actually singing Happy Birthday...to Bruce?"
"Hal's idea."
Diana didn't think much of the exchange with Philip and Clark acted like he didn't hear nor see anything, but Diana did sense his different attitude.
"Clark, are-"
"May I have everyone's attention please?" Hal said.
Everyone quieted down and had their focus on him.
"I know our buddy, Bruce doesn't like much attention, however, what's a birthday party without the traditional birthday song? So everybody join in!"
Bruce narrowed his eyes a bit at Hal already annoyed.
As everyone started to sing, Alfred brought out the giant cake.
"So...is that a birthday cake or a wedding cake?" Barry whispered.
"Maybe he and Selina decided to tie the knot too," Hal joked.
Everyone clapped as Selina blew out the candles for him.
After having cake, people were starting to say their good-byes and leave.
Clark walked Diana to her cab.
"Are you sure you didn't want to fly home? I could've went with you?"
"No, Kal. You need to get home and get some rest yourself."
She smiled and kissed his cheek a bit closer to the corner of his mouth.
"There was a little icing there."
With his goofy shy smile, Clark stuttered, "Oh...I...um...thanks?"
"Night, Kal."
She got in and Clark closed the door. As the cab drove off Clark waved.
"Night, Di..."
Four Days Later: Wednesday Night
The only thing Diana could think of was Clark. It's nothing serious, it's just dinner. It's an event just like any other she had gone to. But why did she feel guilty? Diana flew down to the side of the restaurant and walked to the entrance. She sighed, looking around and saw Phillip already sitting at a table. Diana frowned walking towards him.
"Hello, Phillip..."
"Diana, good evening!"
Diana couldn't believe what she was doing! She would have rather stayed at home. Even being called on a mission. How convenient she there hasn't been a call.
Phillip introduced Diana to some of his collegues and a few other sponsors for the charity.
She wasn't that hungry, suddenly having a lost of appetite, but she didn't want to seem rude so she ordered a salad.
Diana sat for another hour with him. He only talked about himself and it was indeed very annoying. She couldn't wait to leave.
"So...yeah, in my opinion, if we make our initiative successful, I don't think we will need to rely much on those people who run or fly around in costumes all day."
Diana glanced up seeing his head down and side eyed him. She needed to keep her composure.
"What do you mean?"
"See, I think they are taking jobs away from nomal people who can handle say a housefire. We have firefighters for a reason. The big stuff like those weird aliens from outerspace. Take care of those in space. Maybe these threats won't have a chance of even landing on earth."
"That may be so, but one can not predict what will happen. Threats have learned to disquise themselves."
"Well, my buddy Lex...you know Lex Luthor, right?"
Diana arched her brow then looked down at her salad. "An encounter once or twice."
"Great man! He has proposed that if these heroes want our trust fully, we need to know more about them know who they really are. Then, maybe we won't we won't that they could end up being a threat."
"They are here to help and that should be enough. I don't think it's appropriate to have them obligated to share anymore."
"I wouldn't mind some of the ladies sharing a bit more, especially, Wonder Woman. To be honest, I don't trust Batman, he isn't a savior for Gotham, he is a criminal just as well. The guy with the S. Superman. Being looked at as the top alpha leader in control, there's no good with that. He says what the people of the world wants to hear. What they expect. But he wants nothing but praise and worship as some kind of god."
Diana side-eyed him again. "For a man that can have and do anything he wants yet, chooses to help and sacrifice for others, I believe there is much good with that. He is quite humble."
"So even you, Miss. Prince actually believe in this guy?"
"I've met him before. He left a genuine impression of honesty and true heroism. That goes a long way with me."
"I don't know, maybe it's just me though. I say still be cautious. Maybe I'll throw on a red bed sheet if that's what you are interested in," he tried to joke.
Diana didn't respond, not finding him funny at all.
For the rest of the time there was a slight awkward silence, with Phillip still trying to prop up his own ego.
When they finally left the restuarant, Diana was quiet the whole time.
"I don't mind having my driver take you anywhere you need or want to go, Miss Prince."
"My cab should be here soon."
Diana knew he was hoping for his own kind of invitation to take the rest of her night.
"Glad I got to know you more," he smiled and leaned over for a kiss.
Diana frowned and pulled back before he could even come closer. She turned her head.
"Thanks for the invite to your charity dinner."
Phillip looked down and straightened his jacket. He tried not to make his feeling of dissapointment and embarrassment obvious.
"Turned out quite successful as far as I can see. Maybe I'll contact you for another time. A quieter setting."
The cab pulled up right on time.
"Have a good night, Mr. Ashby."
Diana quickly got in and closed the door.
She sighed as the driver pulled off.
"Location, young lady?" The cab driver asked.
"You can stop two streets over. I'll walk the rest of the way. "
The cab driver looked up in the rear view mirror a bit bewildered then shrugged.
Diana flew down to her front door. She smirked taking out her key.
"How long have you been waiting?"
"Not long."
Diana looked up with an arched brow as Clark walked up to her.
"How are you?"
"Tired."
"Have a good time on your date?"
Diana frowned slightly, then shrugged. "I wouldn't call it that being a charity dinner but it was alright."
"Oh..um..ok"
Clark rubbed the back of his head. Diana felt the uneasiness he had. Though, she didn't understand why he was acting that way?
"What's wrong, Clark?"
"Nothing."
Diana folded her arms and arched her brow again.
"I just wanted to make sure you are okay."
"Of course I am."
"I didn't trust the guy..." he said in a low tone. "I don't like him either."
"But you should still trust me and my judgment. I knew he was egotistical imbecile the moment he first introduced himself to me."
"But you went anyway. Why did you go?"
"What?" Diana frowned. "Why are you questioning me?"
"Diana, he wanted more than just dinner. I don't want that for you. I do trust your judgement but you shouldn't have gone."
"I came home alone, didn't I? Even if I did find it pleasant, I wouldn't be so quick to go anywhere else with him! You know that!"
"That's not my point, Diana."
"You're being unfair! What does it matter to you anyway? It's my business and I don't need you questioning what I do when I don't question you!"
"I'm not being unfair, I'm trying to look out for you! I don't want anyone trying to hurt you!"
"It doesn't seem that way! It's more like you are acting out of jealousy for no reason! I can take care of myself, obviously."
"I know you can take care of yourself but that won't stop me from protecting you. And I'm not jealous."
Diana rolled her eyes. "You are acting like a child. I have no interest in Phillip Ashby. It wasn't going to happen, so you can stop worrying and looking at me like that!" Diana turned and opened the door. "Good night, Clark."
He stood there staring at her.
When he didn't respond, she looked back at him and hoofed.
Clark finally snapped back into reality.
"Wait a minute, Diana."
She slammed the door in his face.
He sighed and pondered for a moment. He then flew up to her bedroom window.
He was too late, Diana had already locked it and closed the curtains.
He leaned against the window knowing she was right there leaning against the other side.
"Diana, let me explain."
"You've said enough. Go home."
"I'm not done talking to you."
"I'm done. I'm going to bed. Good night, Kal-El!"
He heard her walk away and go into the bathroom, turning the shower on.
He sighed. "Fine."
After a few moments, Diana peeked out seeing him fly off.
Diana couldn't understand him at all right now. He was on her mind the whole time at the dinner but at this moment, a part of her, was furious, couldn't stand him and didn't want to see him again. The other part was heart broken, longing for him, wishing he would come back and hold her.
Clark felt really bad. Full of regret. He did let his unnecessary jealousy take over and what was making him angrier was trying to convince himself that there still couldn't be nothing more between them but the feeling was too strong to keep denying. Now not only is it a possibility that he lost his chance with her, but his best friend all together.
