CHAPTER 11
Kent Farm – Later that afternoon…
Clark is out in the field repairing one of the fences when he hears a car coming up the road. He stops what he's doing and looks up. A black limousine pulls into the driveway and stops. He starts to walk towards it when the driver gets out of the car and walks up to him.
"I'm looking for Senator Kent. Is she here?"
"No," Clark replies. "She's running some errands. I'm her son. Can I help you?"
"Well, the reason I'm here is because the Senator left something in my car when I brought her here last night – and I want to make sure she got it back."
Clark is puzzled. "Did you say LAST NIGHT?"
"Yes," he says. "Is there a problem?"
"Uh…no there isn't. "I didn't realize what time she came in."
He hands Clark a small bag. "Can you make sure she gets it?"
"Sure – no problem," taking the bag.
"Thank you," he says. "I have to pick someone else at the airport and I can't be late. It was nice meeting you."
"Likewise," Clark replies – watching the driver get back into the car and taking off down the road.
He stands there for a few minutes. Why did she lie about what time she came in? He wonders. Then it hits him. She was here LAST NIGHT! slapping his hand against his forehead. He pulls out his cell phone to call Lois when he sees her car pulling up in the driveway. He returns it to his pocket and strolls over to her; opening the door for her.
"Hey sweetie," he says, leaning forward to kiss her on the cheek as she gets out of the car. "How was lunch?" he asks.
"Lunch was…," hesitating for a moment – "Not good," shutting the door behind her and turning to look at Clark. "Chloe got served with annulment papers while we were having lunch."
Clark is stunned by Lois's announcement. "I don't believe it!"
"Well believe it. I've never seen anyone so devastated – with the exception of you, of course."
Clark nods in agreement. "We've both been there," he says wistfully. He takes out his cell phone again. "I'm gonna call her."
But Lois puts her hand over his. "I wouldn't Clark. She wants to be alone right now."
"She's one of my best friends. I can't NOT call her?"
Lois sighs. "I know. Believe me I understand. But this is one thing that you won't be able to fix. Being able to mend a broken heart is not one of your powers." She looks up at him. "We'll check on her tomorrow – okay?" putting her arm around him.
"Okay," he says, putting his arm around her as they walk back to the house.
"So did you finally finish repairing that fence?" she asks as they walk into the kitchen.
"No I didn't"
"Why not?" she asks, going over to the refrigerator and pulling out a beer.
"Because I had a visitor, that's why."
"Really? Who was it?" taking a slug out of the bottle.
"The limousine service that my mom used when she came in from the airport came by to drop off something that she left in the car – LAST NIGHT."
"LAST NIGHT?" her eyes wide open. "She was here LAST NIGHT?"
"Sure looks like it," he replies – sitting down at the kitchen table.
She sits down across from him and puts her beer down on the table. "Do you think she saw anything?"
"Maybe. It would explain why you couldn't find your bra this morning. She had to have heard us come in. After all, the motorcycle was pretty loud. I really should tune it up. It's been a while since I've taken it for a ride.
"Well we did put it to good use last night though – didn't we?" giving him one of her flirtatious looks. "I know I'll never look at a motorcycle in the same way again."
Clark can't help but blush at that comment. "Yeh, we sure did," smiling back at her.
"Well, in case you didn't hear me say it last night," getting up from her chair and sitting down on his lap – putting her arms around his neck – "You were AMAZING!"
"I aim to please," putting his arms around her waist and giving her the kiss that always makes her toes tingle. Then he puts one arm under her knees and stands up. "We have the whole house to ourselves. Mom won't be back until around 7:00."
"I don't know Clark. I think…" she starts to say. But he presses his lips against hers again.
"What do I have to do to shut you up – kiss you? Because I would be doing it 24/7," he remarks.
"You could give it a shot?" raising one eyebrow at him. He carries her up the stairs to his bedroom and closes the door behind them…
Two hours later…
Martha arrives back home and parks the truck next to Lois's car. She gets out and takes a box of groceries out of the back. She carries it into the kitchen and is about to start putting them away when she hears laughter coming from upstairs. She goes up the stairs and stops in front of Clark's bedroom door.
"Smallville, you missed a spot," she hears Lois say.
"I do like to be thorough," Clark replies.
Martha starts to tip toe away, but then stops in her tracks. They know that I know but won't let on that they know. Well, I've learned a few things in Washington. She walks back to Clark's door and knocks on it. "Clark?" she calls out. Are you in there?"
Clark pokes his head out from beneath the sheet. "Uh…Mom…I'll be right there." He looks up at Lois who just shrugs her shoulders. "Please be quiet," he mouths to her as he gets out of bed and puts his jeans back on. She dives under the covers as he walks over to the door and opens it a crack. "Hey mom, you're back early," he says – a little nervously.
"You're in bed in the middle of the afternoon?" she questions him.
"I…uh…just felt like taking a nap. Anything wrong with that?" He remarks – a little snippy.
"There's no need to be snippy Clark. I just wanted to tell you that I don't feel like cooking tonight. I thought we could order a pizza for supper. How do you feel about mushroom and pepperoni?"
Clark is surprised that Martha would suggest it. "Since when do you like mushroom and pepperoni on a pizza?"
"Peoples taste changes sometimes – even yours. So how about it?"
"Alright. You call it in and I'll pick it up."
"When you see Lois, tell her to be here around 8:00."
"I'll tell her when I see her."
"Well, she must be around here somewhere because her car is parked outside Clark."
"I just remembered. She went for a walk after lunch," Clark says.
"Really?" How long is he gonna keep this up? Martha thinks to herself.
Clark goes back into the bedroom and closes the door behind him. "She definitely heard us last night. She mentioned getting a mushroom and pepperoni pizza. That's not what she usually gets. She knows."
Lois sits up in bed with the sheet tucked under her arms. "Well, what do you want to do about it? Should we still tell her like we planned?"
Clark thinks for a minute. "No," he finally says. I think it's time we have a little fun with her," giving her a mischievous grin.
Chapter 12
At the same time that Martha was making the salad, Lois was once again climbing out the window – this time assisted by Clark. She sneaks around the house and makes her way back to the kitchen door and comes in. "Hey Mrs. K – what are you making?"
"I told you to call me Mom – didn't I?"
"I know," says Lois, "But I also like calling you 'Mrs. K'. I hope you don't mind."
"I don't mind. I'm making a salad to go with dinner, by the way. Clark is picking up a pizza as we speak."
"That sounds good," Lois says. "I'm famished."
I bet, Martha thinks to herself.
Clark comes in with the pizza and sets it down on the table. Martha hands everyone a plate and they all sit down and start to eat.
"So Lois," Martha says suddenly. "I know about your promotion. What's going on in your personal life? Are you seeing anybody?"
Lois almost spits out her soda and stares back at her. "I…uh…am seeing someone," she stammers.
"Really? What's he like?" asks Clark – raising one eyebrow at her.
"Well," she hesitates for a moment. Two can play at this game. "He's very sexy, has beautiful blue eyes, and wears glasses."
"He sounds nice," Martha remarks – giving Clark a sideways glance that puzzles him.
"He's also an AMAZING lover. He has totally ruined me for any other man."
Martha almost chokes on her pizza. "EXCUSE ME? What did you just say?"
"She said he's an amazing lover Mom," he repeats – smiling back at her.
"I heard what she said Clark," somewhat annoyed by his comment.
"Did Clark tell you about his new girlfriend?" says Lois suddenly – raising one eyebrow at him. "Go on Smallville. Tell her."
Martha stares at Clark for a moment. "Do go on Clark. Tell me about this 'new' girlfriend of yours."
He frowns for a moment. "Okay. Let's see…where do I begin? She's beautiful and smart. She has the softest lips I've ever kissed. And her skin feels just like silk. Just thinking about touching her and I get all…excited."
Martha gulps when he says that. "So if she's so great, then why aren't you out with her tonight?" she stammers.
"Oh I'll see her later. She said she would wait up for me."
"I see," says Martha – regaining her composure. "By the way," she adds, "I found a pink bra in the kitchen. Do either one of you have any idea how it got there?" staring back at both of them.
Clark and Lois look at each other for a moment – unsure as to what to say. Clark is about to say something when there's a knocking at the kitchen door.
"Perfect timing," Martha retorts, getting up from her chair and walking over to the door.
"Hi Senator," says Oliver, shaking her hand and coming into the kitchen. He waves hello to Lois and Clark.
"Call me Martha. There's no need to be so formal here."
"Okay – Martha," giving her a smile. "I didn't know you were in town."
"I thought I'd surprise Clark. So how are you doing?"
"Fine. Business is fine. Nothing to complain about."
"So what's up Oliver?" Clark asks, taking a sip of his soda.
"I was hoping you'd know."
"Know what?" Clark asks – a little puzzled.
"I was supposed to meet with Chloe around 4:00 but she never showed up. I tried calling her cell, home, even the foundation. She's not picking up."
"I guess you haven't heard," Clark finally says. "Chloe got served with annulment papers this afternoon."
"Oh," he says, sitting down. "That explains it. Wow. Poor Chloe. She really seemed happy at the wedding."
"She just wants to be alone right now."
"I can't say I blame her. I just hope she doesn't do anything she'll regret later."
"Not Chloe," says Lois. "No matter what she's been through, she always manages to handle it. She'll be okay – as long as she has her friends to be there for her."
Oliver nods in agreement. "Well, I guess I'll be going then."
"Do you want to stay and join us for pizza?" asks Martha.
"No thanks. I really should be going. My plane leaves in the morning for Paris. I have some meetings set up."
"I'll see you when you get back," says Clark. "Have a great trip."
"I sure will," Oliver says - flashes one of his cocky smiles. He opens the door and leaves, closing it behind him.
"He's a nice guy. I'm glad you're friends with him Clark," says Martha as she starts to clear the table.
"I'm lucky to have the friends I have – even you Lois."
"Gee Smallville, I'm touched," says Lois – a little sarcastically.
Martha just rolls her eyes at that exchange. "I think I'll go for a walk. Can you finish cleaning up?"
"Sure – no problem." She puts her jacket on and leaves.
"I don't know how long we can keep this up," she says as soon as Martha's out of earshot.
"You're right. We'll definitely tell her tomorrow for sure."
She empties the remains of the salad into the garbage. "You know what I feel like doing?" she asks.
"What's that Lois?"
"I feel like curling up on the couch and watching a movie."
"Sounds good."
"I left a DVD in my car. I'll go get it." She grabs her keys and goes outside – coming in a minute later. "It's starting to rain again. I'm sure your mom will be back any minute." Sure enough, Martha shows up about five minutes later."
"We're about to watch a movie. Care to join us?" Clark asks Martha.
"I thought you were meeting your 'girlfriend' Clark?" Martha asks, her eyes narrowing.
"Oh, she called while you were out. She had to go out of town. I won't see her until Tuesday night."
"I see. What a coincidence it is that she'll be back AFTER I leave," Martha retorts.
Clark scowls at that comment.
"You two watch the movie. I think I'll turn in early. Lois…" turning to her, "You can stay here tonight. I'm sure that Clark won't mind you using his bedroom. He should be comfortable on the couch."
"Sounds good to me. How about it Smallville?"
Clark frowns at Lois for a second. "FINE. But when you take your shower in the morning, you can at least leave me some hot water. The last time I ended up taking a cold shower."
Martha rolls her eyes again. "Well, goodnight. I'll see you in the morning." She disappears up the stairs.
"Well, wasn't this a fun evening?" Lois says.
"Sure was," sitting on the couch. "Come on," patting the spot next to him. She sits down and puts her head on his shoulder as he puts his arm around hers. He presses 'play' and the movie begins…
Chloe's apartment – the same time…
Chloe is pouring another glass of wine when the doorbell rings. She frowns at the intrusion. She walks over to the door and peers through the peephole. She's surprised by who she sees. She opens the door and Oliver comes in; closing the door behind him.
"I'm sorry Chloe. I just heard," giving her a hug.
"Thanks Oliver," pulling away from him and walking back to the couch; picking up the wine glass.
"Drowning your sorrows, huh?" He observes. "Do you really think that's such a good idea?"
"You're a fine one to talk," she retorts.
Oliver frowns at that comment. She's right about that. Who am I to talk? Out loud he says, "You're right. I didn't exactly handle the truth about my parent's death all that well," sitting down next to her.
"I just want to be alone Oliver. Can you understand that?"
He just sighs. "Of course I do. But I have a better idea."
"REALLY?" she says in a sarcastic tone.
"I'm supposed to leave for Paris in the morning to meet up with the league. Why don't you come along? It might do you some good to get away from Smallville for a few days."
"I don't know Oliver. I'm not going to be great company."
"I don't care about that Chloe. Come on, come with me."
"What about the foundation? I can't just leave it there with no one to check on things?"
"I'm sure Clark and Lois can do that. So what do you say?"
"Well…" hesitating for a minute. "Alright, I'll go. Maybe a change of scenery will do me some good – and I did get my passport renewed so…" her eyes clouding at the thought.
"Great!" says Oliver. "I'll pick you up around 8:00 tomorrow morning. We're gonna show you a great time. Whatever you want to do, it's on me. I won't take no for an answer – and that's that."
Her eyes water up. "That's sweet of you Oliver. Thank you."
"That's what friends are for," giving her another hug before he leaves. "Don't forget – 8:00."
"I won't forget," finally managing a smile. "Good night Oliver."
"Good night Chloe," closing the door behind him.
I guess I should start packing, she says to herself – disappearing into the bedroom.
Two hours later…
"That was a good movie," Lois says, getting up and stretching out her arms. "I think I'll head on up to bed," giving Clark a lingering kiss before she climbs the staircase. "Good night Smallville," disappearing up the stairs.
Clark gets up from the couch and starts to shut off all the lights; making sure the doors were locked as well. Then he uses his heat vision to start a fire in the fireplace. He changes out of his jeans and t-shirt and into his sweatpants; lying down on the couch and covering himself with a blanket. About a half hour later, he feels a kiss on his cheek. He turns on his back and looks up to see Lois standing there – wearing one of his flannel shirts.
"I can't sleep," she says, pulling the blanket off him and straddling his thighs. She leans forward and starts kissing him on the neck; starting to make her way down his chest.
"Lois?" he whispers. But she pretends not to hear him as she continues her activity. "Lois," he says again. "It's not that I don't want to, but…I just don't feel comfortable having sex with my future wife while my mother is upstairs sleeping."
Lois stops what she's doing. "WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?"
Clark realizes what he just said; his eyes wide open. She stares at him for what seems like a long time. Why did I say that? You know why you said it Clark. You've been thinking about it ever since you realized you loved her. He looks up at Lois. She's waiting for me to say something. What should I say? The truth – that's what.
Out loud, he finally says, "Lois – I love you. When I realized that I was in love with you, I started thinking about our future. I'm not saying that I'm ready to propose now, but…"
She puts one finger over his mouth. "You don't have to explain. I understand." She kisses him and starts to get up – but Clark pulls her back down.
"You don't have to leave." Without another word, Lois lays down on top of him with her head on his chest; his arm around her shoulder. Within minutes she's fast asleep. He smiles at her and closes his eyes; finally falling asleep himself.
A few minutes earlier…
Martha was silently descending the stairs to go to the kitchen and get a glass of water when she hears Clark refer to Lois as his future wife. She stops short at that comment. She waits until she hears the two of them drift off to sleep, then she walks over to the couch and looks down at the two of them. I'm glad my Clark turned out to be your Jonathan, kissing Lois on the pulls the blanket over the two of them and goes back upstairs to bed with a smile on her face…
Chapter 13
The next morning…
Lois could smell the rich scent of coffee in the air. She gradually opens her eyes and notices Martha in the kitchen. Martha turns around and sees that Lois was awake. "Good morning Lois," walking over to the couch and handing her a cup of coffee; sitting down on the edge of the coffee table.
"I guess the cats out of the bag, huh?" Lois remarks, sipping her coffee.
"It was out of the bag when I saw the two of you riding in on a motorcycle at 3:00 in the morning," she replies back. "So…How long has this been going on – and who's bright idea was it to mess with me?" sipping her own coffee.
Lois looks down at Clark – who's still sleeping. "It's been six months – and it was Clark's idea," she admits. "He wanted to have some fun with you."
"It must be your influence on him. I thought it was your idea."
"I'm not surprised to hear you say that Mrs. K."
"You know Clark's secret – don't you?" she asks Lois suddenly – who nods yes.
Clark finally wakes up and sees both Martha and Lois staring at him. "We've been found out," Lois says, kissing him on the cheek.
"Well…it couldn't last forever now, could it?" sitting up and taking the coffee cup out of Lois's hand.
"Hey! That's my coffee!" trying to take it back.
He swats her hand away. "You're always swiping my coffee at work. It's about time that I swipe yours," he retorts – sipping the coffee.
"Well, it's nice to know that some things never change," Martha says.
Lois gets up and looks down at Clark. "Just for that, I'm gonna use up all the hot water."
"Use as much as you want," he retorts – "I took one in the middle of the night," a smirk on his face.
She swats him on the shoulder and goes upstairs in a huff. Clark can't help but chuckle at her reaction; thinking she's so cute when she gets like that. He starts to get up from the couch, but Martha stops him.
"Clark? I want to talk to you."
He notes the serious tone in her voice. "Alright," he says, a little concerned.
She hesitates before speaking. "I want you to know that I'm happy that the two of you are together. I've always thought you would end up with each other. But…I can't help but feel a little hurt that you've been dating for six months and couldn't tell me."
Clark sees the hurt in her eyes. "I'm sorry. I should have told you. I don't have a good enough excuse for it," taking her hand in his and holding it.
"I know you are Clark. You're a man now. You don't have to tell me about every little thing that happens in your life. But something as important as this IS something you should tell me."
He nods in acknowledgement. "I promise that it won't happen again."
"You don't have to promise me anything Clark. I just want you to know that there's nothing you can't tell me." He smiles back at her. Then she says, "You know…if you want to be with Lois, it's okay. Just because I'm here doesn't mean you have to go without."
"Uh…I don't know about that," stammering a little bit.
"I should tell you something that I've never told anyone."
"What is it?"
"Well…" swallowing hard, "You remember I told you that your father and I broke up at one point?"
"I remember. You told me that story on the day that Lana married Lex."
She goes on. "Up to that point, your father and I weren't intimate with each other. But once we got back together, there was NO stopping us."
Clark's eyes widen in disbelief. "You and Dad? I don't believe it!" getting up from the couch and walking over to the window; his arms crossed against his chest. She walks over to him and touches his arm. He turns around and looks at her.
"Clark I loved your father very much. I knew he was the one I was going to marry. We had a wonderful love life. And from what I saw the other night, you are just like him." Clark stares at her for a moment. "I know you're shocked to hear all this, but…"
Without a word, he pulls her into his arms and gives her a hug. "It's okay Mom. I guess I was just…surprised. After my first time with Lana, you and Dad weren't exactly too happy about it."
"I know," she says – pulling away to look up at him. But you never knew the real reason why. I know you thought you loved her, but I knew that she wasn't the one. You just never seemed compatible. There was just too much drama in your relationship. But with Lois, I can see how much happier you are when you're with her. Yes, she gets under your skin and pushes your buttons, but you also enjoy pushing hers. In some ways you are different from each other – but yet you complement each other. I am truly happy for you."
His eyes start to water a little. "Thanks Mom," pulling her back in for another hug.
"What's going on?" They both turn around to see Lois standing there – wrapped in a towel while toweling off her wet hair.
"Come here," Martha says, pulling Lois to her and hugging both of them at the same time.
"Is everything okay? She asks, pulling away and staring at them.
"Everything's fine," Martha says as she starts to walk away. Then she turns around and looks at the two of them. "You two make me so happy," smiling at them. Then she says, "How about the three of us go out for breakfast?"
"That sounds nice," says Clark. "How about you Lois?"
"Count me in. But I really should go back to my apartment and get a fresh change of clothes. I've been wearing the same clothes for the last two days."
"Not a problem Lois. I can fly you over there right now."
"I can't have you flying me over there wrapped only in a towel Clark," she retorts.
"You two work it out. I'm gonna go upstairs and get dressed."
As soon as Martha goes upstairs and they hear the bedroom door close, Clark walks over to Lois and puts one hand on her waist; stroking his cheek with his finger. "You just put a VERY vivid image in my head," kissing her softly on the lips. Then he sweeps her up into his arms and walks out the door; jumping into the air as the towel falls to the ground…
Lois's apartment – a few minutes later…
Clark touches down on the balcony. He looks down at her face; her eyes wide open as his hands caress her naked body. The cool breeze tickles her skin – causing the tiny hairs on her body to stand on end. He lowers his lips to hers; her hands resting on his chest. He carries her inside; still kissing her. He whispers in her ear, "I want you so much."
"I want you too," whispering back to him. "But we can't right now," the sound of disappointment in her voice.
He reluctantly puts her down. "I know," he finally says.
"Well…I better get dressed," walking away from him. She can feel his eyes on her as she walks away; admiring her body. She turns her head to look back at him and blows him a kiss, then disappears into her bedroom.
What a tease she is, he thinks – but a sexy one, smiling at the thought.
Ten minutes later…
"Damn it!" she utters. "I can't find my hair dryer," continuing to pull out drawer after drawer.
"Will you calm down Lois?" he calls out to her. "Come back here – and bring your hair brush." Puzzled, she comes out of the bedroom and walks over to him. He pulls a chair over to where she is. "Sit down," he commands. She obliges him.
Wait a minute, she thinks – He tells me to do something and I do it? No questions asked?
He squats down behind her and gently starts to blow on her hair using his super breath. Lois closes her eyes; feeling a tingle go through her body as his warm breath tickles her neck. "That feels soo good…" she whispers; a sigh escaping her lips.
He stops what he's doing and starts to make tiny sucking noises with his lips as he kisses her on the back of her neck; making his way around to the base of her throat. She continues to moan as his lips move up her throat and make their way to her lips. "Mmm…" she mutters as his tongue swirls around in her mouth. She dares to open her eyes and sees the desire in his eyes.
"We're gonna be late," she whispers.
He looks up at her. "We'll continue this later," he says.
"Is that a promise?"
"You bet!" he exclaims in a firm – yet confident voice.
Back at the farm…
Clark goes upstairs to change his clothes while Martha and Lois wait for him downstairs. "It's funny that we have to wait for Clark instead of the other way around," Lois remarks to Martha.
Just then, Clark shows up. "I heard that," he retorts.
"Oh, by the way, I almost forgot to tell you," Martha says, "Oliver called while the two of you were gone. He said he was bringing Chloe with him to Paris. He thought it might be a good idea for her to get away for a few days."
"Really?" Clark and Lois look at each other; eyebrows raised.
Martha continues. "Chloe was hoping the two of you could keep your eyes on things at ISIS. I didn't think you'd mind,"
"Not a problem," they say in unison.
"I also said that I'd stay at her apartment for the next couple nights. So you can have the house to yourselves," giving Clark a wink – who in turn gives Lois one – accompanied by the smile that makes her toes tingle.
"Okay then – let's go," he says.
"You forgot something Clark," Lois says to him. "Remember?"
"Oh yeah, I almost forgot," taking something out of his pocket and putting it on.
Martha peers curiously at him. "Since when do you need glasses?
Chapter 14
Six months earlier…
Clark and Lois arrive back at the farm after a long day of dealing with the throng of reporters after the press conference. Everyone is going crazy about 'Superman'. How they managed to slip out at the end of the day unnoticed was nothing short of a miracle. Clark unlocks the kitchen door and holds it open for Lois. She goes into the kitchen to make some coffee as Clark goes into the living room to sit down; resting his head on the back of the couch. He was pretty subdued on the way home. Something must be bothering him. She forgets about the coffee and instead goes into the living room and sits down next to him on the couch.
"Are you alright Clark?" she asks. "You were pretty quiet on the way home."
"I'm okay Lois," he finally says. "It's just a little overwhelming being referred to as Superman".
"Well, I wouldn't have said it if I didn't think so myself," giving him a wink.
"WAIT A MINUTE!" You deliberately said that – DIDN'T YOU?" he accuses her.
She just shrugs her shoulders. "I felt you needed a better moniker than Red and Blue Blur. It's a mouthful if you ask me. Besides, Superman has a nice ring to it – wouldn't you agree?"
"I guess. You know, you can be pretty sneaky at times," raising one eyebrow at her.
"What can I say – when you've got it, you've got it," smiling at him.
He puts his arm around her. "How'd I get so lucky to have someone like you in my life?"
"Luck had nothing to do with it – it was fate."
"I didn't think you believed in fate."
"I didn't until I met you Clark," leaning forward to kiss him. Their eyes close as they explore each other's mouths. "Umm," she moans. "You taste sooo good," she murmurs; putting her hand on his cheek as his arms come around her waist.
Just then the phone rings. He breaks the kiss. "I suppose I should get that," he says rather reluctantly. He gets up from the couch and goes into the kitchen to answer the phone. "Hello?" he answers. "It's Chloe," he mouths to Lois. "You saw the press conference. Yes, it was a great idea. Yes, Lois knows my secret." He pauses for a minute – listening to what Chloe's saying. "Yeah, I'll see you tomorrow. Okay, bye." He hangs up the phone and comes back into the living room and sits back down next to Lois. "Chloe just told me that she thought it was about time I told you my secret."
"So Chloe knows, and Oliver and the league know. Anyone else?"
"Well, hesitating for a second, "Lana knows too," looking at her out of the corner of his eye.
"Well I guess I shouldn't be surprised that you told her," getting up from the couch. "It's getting late. I'm gonna need something to wear tonight."
"I'll get you something from my room," getting up from the couch as well. "No," she says. "I'll find something myself. I already have an idea of what to wear." She winks at him and goes upstairs.
Clark goes into the kitchen and sees the coffee can still on the table. He decides to make some cocoa instead – with the little marshmallows that she likes.
Upstairs in Clark's room, Lois finds Clarks football jersey. Perfect. She thinks. Now all I need is a pair of socks. She starts rummaging through his drawers. She opens one of them and smiles at what she sees. He does wear boxers. Now that's sexy. She continues looking until she finds something that peaks her curiosity. She pulls out a pair of black-rimmed glasses and looks at them. Since when does he wear glasses? He has that x-ray vision. She finally finds the sock drawer and pulls out a pair; sitting down on the bed to put them on. Then she goes downstairs – carrying the glasses.
She walks into the living room and sees Clark sitting back on the couch; two steaming mugs on the coffee table. He looks up at her and sees that she's wearing his football jersey. Wow! She could be wearing ratty old sweatpants and still look sexy. How does she do it? He thinks, staring at her long legs.
"I made some cocoa for us instead of coffee."
She picks up one of the mugs and examines it. "You even remembered the marshmallows," she exclaims.
"I know you pretty well by now – don't I?"
"I guess I don't know you as well as I thought," she replies.
He sets down his mug and looks at her. "What did you mean by that?"
She pulls out the glasses and holds them up for him to see. "Oh those," he remarks. "I almost forgot about them."
"I thought you had x-ray vision? Since when do you need glasses? I've never seen you wear them?" she questions him.
"Well, I was temporarily blinded in the 11th grade. When my sight started to come back, I had to wear them for a while until my eyesight returned to normal. I just never got around to getting rid of them."
"I've never seen you wear glasses," handing them to him. "Humor me. I would like to see how they look on you."
"Alright," taking the glasses from her and putting them on. "What do you think?"
She studies his face for a moment. "I like them. They totally change the way you look." She stops talking for a moment. "You know – when I met your mother, I said that I wouldn't mind a nerd with glasses – or something like that."
"You think I look like a nerd?" a frown on his face.
"Of course not," she assures him. "I think they look sexy."
"You're not just saying that – are you?"
"No," she replies. "I meant every word." She kisses him again. When she finally pulls away, she gets a look in her eye that tells Clark she's up to something.
"You're up to something. I can tell. What is it?"
"Well…I was just thinking. Sooner or later, 'Superman' will be seen by people. You should have some kind of disguise to distinguish between 'Clark Kent' and 'Superman'. So…"
He thinks she knows what she's getting at. "You can't possibly believe that people won't be able to tell the difference – do you?" He pauses a moment. "What exactly am I supposed to tell everyone – that my vision suddenly changed? How do you expect me to explain that?"
"You could tell them that you've been wearing contacts up to now."
"That still doesn't change things Lois. Everyone knows how I look without glasses."
She thinks about it for a minute. "I've got it!" snapping her fingers.
Oh boy, this is gonna be a real doozy.
"What if 'Superman' is the one to wear the glasses?"
He stares at her – wide eyed with disbelief. "That is the craziest idea I've ever heard. It wouldn't work. What about when I have to use my heat vision?"
She frowns. "I didn't think of that." Then she says, "Okay – how about this one: Why don't you just go to the fortress and talk to Jor-El? Maybe he could come up with something."
"I can't do that. And even if I were to seriously consider it, I couldn't even talk to him anyway. The fortress is dead. He's gone."
"Alright. Since you don't like that idea either, we're back to square one."
He thinks about it for a few minutes. Then he gets up from the couch and walks over to the mirror hanging on the wall and looks at himself. "Huh" he mutters to himself. Then he turns around and looks at Lois. "Well…he finally says, "Maybe I will wear them for a while and see what happens."
She nods in agreement; smiling back at him.
Present Day…
"So," Martha says, "Is it working?"
"Well," Clark says, "It seems to be. Just the other day Chloe told me that she almost forgot how I look without them. And she's known me for over eight years."
"You know," Lois interrupts, "Now that the Fortress is back to normal, you could talk to Jor-El."
"I think I'll wait a while on that one. So, are we going out for breakfast or not?"
"Let's go," Lois says, grabbing her jacket. Then the three of them walk out the door; Clark pausing briefly to lock it.
Six months earlier…
Tess is reading the headline for the next day's edition and smiles. This is gonna be huge, she thinks. This will probably be the biggest selling edition in the Planets history. She tosses the newspaper back on her desk and walks out the door. The headline reads:
SUPERMAN SAVES REPORTERS FROM PLANE CRASH
Chapter 15
Paris, France
Chloe is sitting in an outdoor café enjoying a cup of espresso. Even though there's no music playing, she could swear she hears…
Hold me close and hold me fast, the magic spell you cast, this is la vie en rose
She continues to observe people walking past her. Oliver had a good idea. I'm glad I came. But then her eyes cloud up when she sees a man and woman walking by her; holding hands. We were supposed to come here together someday, she thinks wistfully.
"Why so sad Mademoiselle?" She looks up to see the waiter standing there.
"Long story," she replies, sipping her espresso. He places a plate down on the table. She looks at him curiously. "I didn't order this croissant."
"It's on me. Enjoy this beautiful day. Forget about the sadness and remember where you are. This is Paris, after all," smiling at her.
She manages a small smile. He reaches over; picking up her hand to kiss it. "Thank you," she says. He gives her a wink and walks away.
That was sweet of him, she thinks as she starts to eat the croissant.
Back in Smallville…
Clark is out in the field finishing up some chores when he notices that someone was standing on the front porch. He walks closer and is surprised to see that it's Tess Mercer. He reaches the house and looks up at her. "Ms. Mercer? What are you doing here on a Sunday afternoon?"
"I wanted to stop by and show you something Mr. Kent."
"It couldn't wait until tomorrow at the office?"
"No – it couldn't," she replies.
"Alright – what is it that's so important?"
She hands him a manila folder. "Take a look," she says.
He looks at her; a little leery. What is she up to? He thinks.
"Go on Clark – open it."
He opens the folder and tries not to show the fear in his eyes. "Where did you get this?" he asks in a slightly shaky voice.
"Someone sent it to me anonymously. I have no idea who it was. I thought you would find it VERY interesting."
"This is not for real," he retorts – throwing it down on the porch. "Someone's idea of a joke. Whoever it was must be very good with a computer. Why they chose me as the subject matter is beyond me," folding his arms across his chest.
She stoops down to pick it up. "Are you SURE about that Clark?" But he doesn't answer her. She places it on the table that's on the porch. He glares back at her. "I already have a copy," in response to his unspoken question.
She walks away from him and returns to her car. She turns in his direction. "See you tomorrow – Mr. Kent," then gets in and drives away.
He watches her as her car disappears down the road. He walks over to the table and picks up the folder; staring at it. He sits down on the porch steps and lays the folder down next to him. Just then, Lois drives up and parks her car. She gets out and walks over and sits down next to him; kissing him on the cheek.
"What's wrong sweetie?" she asks, noting the concerned look on his face. He turns his head to look at her.
"Take a look," pointing to the folder. She picks it up and opens it; her eyes widening in horror.
"Where on earth did you get this?" she asks.
"Tess Mercer was just here and gave it to me. She said it came to her anonymously."
"I can't believe it!" she exclaims. "How did you manage to explain it?"
"I told her that it must have been created by someone who's very good with a computer."
"Did she buy it?"
"I don't know. If she's anything like Lex was, then probably not."
"Well, I think you should still continue to be careful when you're around her."
"You too Lois." He takes her hands in his. "PLEASE promise me that you'll be careful too. Okay?" concern showing in his voice.
"I promise."
"Come on," he says – standing up. "Let's have some lunch. Mom made some sandwiches."
She smiles up at him; getting up to follow him into the kitchen – carrying the folder in with her.
Back in Paris…
Chloe is back in her hotel room when she hears a knocking at the door. "Who is it?" she calls out.
"It's Oliver."
"I'll be right there," getting out of bed and putting a robe on. She walks over to the door and opens it. He comes in and eyes what she's wearing. "You're in bed already? It's still early."
"I was a little tired. Jet lag you know," she remarks, tightening the belt of her robe.
"Well get dressed," he says. "I'm taking you out to dinner – okay?"
She looks at him for a moment. "Alright. Give me about an hour – okay?"
"Sure – no problem," giving her a wink as he walks back out and closes the door behind him. She locks it and leans back against the door; breathing a sigh of relief. She walks back over to the bed and sits down.
"It's okay, he's gone. You can come out now," she calls out. He pokes his head out from the bathroom, then comes over to her and sits down next to her.
"What did he want?" he asks her; kissing her on the neck.
"He wants to take me out to dinner in an hour."
"That's sweet of him."
"I'm sorry you can't stay any longer. I have to get dressed."
"Well, how long will it take you?" he asks, stroking her face with his finger.
"Not long." She turns her head to look at him; understanding the real meaning behind the question. She stands up and slowly unties the robe; allowing it to fall down to the floor. He picks her up and they lay down on the bed as they make love again…
Back in Smallville…
Clark and Lois are finishing up their dinner. "That was delicious," Lois remarks. "I sure have missed your mother's cooking."
"Me too," Clark replies as he starts to clear the table.
"Forget about the dishes and come for a walk with me. It's a beautiful night."
"You don't have to ask me twice," he remarks; following her out the door.
They start walking down the road; holding hands and making idle conversation. Before long, they find themselves at Crater Lake. "Clark, How long have we been walking anyway?" she asks him.
"I have NO idea. But since we're here – and it's a warm evening, how about a little moonlight swim? raising one eyebrow at her.
"That sounds nice." Then she taps him on the shoulder. "Tag – you're it!" running away from him. But she's not fast enough as she runs right into Clark; almost falling down backwards. He catches her and looks down at her; gently stroking her face with his finger. His head leans forward to gently lay his lips on hers. "Mmm," she moans. "I just love kissing you – among other things," opening her eyes to wink at him. He lifts her back up to her feet; his arms still around her.
They slowly undress each other; caressing each other's bodies. He picks her up and walks over to the water; carrying her in his arms. He wades in until the water is almost to his waist; finally putting her down. They put their arms around each other and start to kiss; their tongues caressing the inside of each other's mouths. Her breasts push up against his bare chest when he pulls her closer to him. "Mmm," they both moan at the same time; enjoying each other…
TO BE CONTINUED...
