"I did have a good time," He replied.

Mary turned on the lamp, the smile on her face was genuine. Oliver moved across the room and sat on the opposite end of the couch.

"Tell me," she grinned.

"Ehhh, I," he spoke shyly

"I'm only teasing Oliver. I'm glad you had a good time." She smiled. "Chloe is good people."

"Yes she is."

"Want some advice?" Mary stood.

"Absolutely."

"Just be patient with her, she's had a rough road." She smiled.

"I will."

Mary left him thinking.

00000

Chloe sat on the Kent couch, a hand pressed to her lips. She had all but dared him to kiss her. That whole be careful what you wish for cause you just may get it was totally true. Now that she had it, she wasn't sure that she could live without it.

00000

Oliver thought that maybe if he talked to his IM friend that he could regain some perspective. She had such a practical outlook on life. He shut the lamp off and went upstairs.

00000

Chloe sat with her lap top on her lap, staring at the messenger, hoping that her friend would show up. She heard the chime and saw his icon appear.

Snrkyaltr :Hey, I was hoping you would sign on:

:Really? Kind of nice to be wanted:

:LOL, of course you're wanted. I needed some good conversation.:

:Well, here I am:

:Oh boy,:

:What seems to be the problem?:

:I met someone: Chloe typed then deleted it. : My world used to be so uncomplicated:

:If you consider working a lot of extreme hours uncomplicated:

:Ha, Ha, like your work schedule is any better, LOL.:

:Touché—go on.:

:I have had a handle on my life for a long time, goals, plans, ideas…:

:Which is a good thing, right?:

:Yeah, it is…:

:But?:

:It can get lonely:

:Very true. Sorry if I'm confused, what's changed?:

:I met someone:

:Ahhh:

:Hey!:

:What? I think it's a good thing. How long have we been IM'ing?:

:IDK, a year?"

:And in that time we've talked about social life things but we haven't talked about dating people:

:Well, I haven't been totally honest because my track record is well, less than stellar:

:That's nothing to be ashamed of:

:It is when well, I think he's perfect:

:Really? Perfect huh?:

:Well IDK how to describe him. But I think I'm damaged goods.:

:Hardly.:

:What do you mean?:

:All the experiences you have had, prepare you for your next relationship. If he sees you as damaged then he's an idiot.:

:Thank you. …BRB..:

Oliver got up and got ready for bed. He then crawled back into bed and waited for her to return.

Chloe went and got a bottle of water and then made herself more comfortable.

:Ok, : she typed. : Hey how is your vacation?:

"It's good thanks for asking. New experiences everywhere.:

:Haven't gotten out much or what, jk:

:Something like that. I have a lot of responsibilities at work that doesn't allow for a lot of frivolous travel:

:Ahh, so where did you end up?:

:I?: he spoke and his computer flashed a low battery warning. He shook his head. For all his brilliance he forgot to plug it in.

:Well?:

:Sorry my computer is about to die and I don't have my cord close by.:

:Ugh, Ok I should probably go to bed anyways:

:Alright, it was nice talking to you and keep your chin up. From what I know of you you're a great person, let him see it.:

:Thanks. Take care of…..

"Damn," he spoke as his machine powered down. He had left his power cord in his other bag in the jeep. He hadn't used the machine much so he didn't think he would need it. He set the laptop down on the night stand.

He slid further into bed, brooding. His friend had found a guy to date, he was happy for her, sort of. It meant that their conversation time would probably start to decline. Ah well, she deserved happiness. She was always working and whatever she did she was truly dedicated. He felt bad that she felt damaged due to her relationship past. He hoped that whoever she had found could look past the bumps and see her for what a vivacious person she had shown to him. Oliver rolled onto his side, fluffed his pillow and closed his eyes.

00000

Chloe smiled, she always felt better after talking to her friend. He got her in a way that most people didn't. He had a penchant for software plus he worked for the company that made some super cool software she bought to help her heroes. She tucked her lap top away and made sure it was plugged in to not have it die on her like his did. She hoped that he had a great time on his vacation. Chloe turned off the lights and went upstairs to go to bed.

00000

Mary looked out the window that next morning to see Oliver take on the fence with fierce abandon. He was such a hard worker. He had been out the door before she was even up. She couldn't think about how incredibly dynamic he is. She couldn't shake the notion that he was shy. Oliver seemed to wear his confidence like armor. When he was on a one on one level, he seemed to down play his greatness.

She was somewhat surprised that he asked Chloe to Granville and wasn't all to certain that he or Chloe would make a move to spend more time together. She smiled, and looked at her watch. It was late enough, she would just call over and see if Chloe was awake.

00000

The phone rang and Chloe hurried to throw on her bathrobe as she left the bathroom. She managed to catch it in Clark's old room on the last ring.

"Hello?"

"Chloe?"

"This is she.,"

"This is Mary Peabody,"

"Good morning, how are you?"

"Great, did I wake you?"

"Oh no I was up."

"Good, good, look I was just about to make breakfast and I thought that you might like to join us?"

"Uhhh," she blushed.

"And maybe you wouldn't mind helping with some things today."

Chloe paused, "You know why not?" she smiled.

"Good, well why don't you come over in say half an hour?"

"Sounds good," she spoke.

"Alright see you then, good bye." And Mary hung up. Chloe shook her head, then went back to her room to get ready.

00000

Oliver stood at the row of posts, a look of satisfaction on his face. He completed it, and he was so proud. All that was left was to string the barbed wire. He peeled off the leather gloves he was wearing and headed toward the house.

00000

Chloe dressed in black capris, t- shirt and flip flops. She grabbed her keys and purse and headed out the door.

00000

Oliver entered the farm house and his senses were immediately assaulted by the wonderful smells of breakfast. He looked at the clock and thought it was odd that Mary was cooking late.

"Mary?" he spoke entering the kitchen, she was cooking up a storm.

"Oh Oliver, see Joe slept in late," she smiled. "Why don't you go shower, things will be done soon." She went back to cooking. Oliver shook his head and went upstairs to shower.

00000

Chloe parked her car and walked up the front steps. She reached for the door to knock.

"Come in," Mary spoke cheerily from inside. Chloe shook her head and smiled. She entered and was bombarded by the smells of breakfast. Mary came and greeted her with a mug of coffee. "Good morning," she smiled.

"Good morning to you," she took the mug and inhaled the aroma. She then took a hearty sip. "ohh this is good." She purred.

"Thanks," she smiled. "If you'll excuse me I have to get Joe out of bed." She smiled and disappeared down the hall. Chloe just shook her head, and turned to look around the living room. She saw all the pictures and felt the warmth in the décor and it made her heart ache. It was nearly like the Kent home. She turned to see a new computer desk and new desk top set up. She was surprised that Mary bought a computer. Chloe heard footsteps and turned thinking Mary had returned. She gasped when she saw Oliver in cargo shorts, polo shirt, and flip flops.

"Good morning Angel," he smiled. 'Goo, squishy, dayam look at those legs.'

"Uh hi," she smiled.

"How's the coffee?" he asked indicating her mug.

"Great, you should try it."

"I think I might, care to join me in the kitchen while I get a mug?"

"Sure?" she smiled. She could only watch as he moved with a grace that was almost regal. He poured a mug of coffee and dressed it up minimally and stirred. He took a sip and sighed.

"That is good coffee."

"Ye of little faith, you should trust my tastes more." She teased.

"So noted," he moved toward the dining room table. "Where is Mary?"

"She went to go get Joe."

"Ahh," he held out a chair for her and Chloe blushed then sat. Oliver then sat next to her. "So did you rest well?" he asked.

"I did and you?"

"I did actually." He smiled. He was about to ask her a question when Mary entered the room with Joe and then she sat in the chair next to him.

"Alright, let's say Grace." She smiled, she bowed her head and prayed. When she was finished she looked up at her guests and knew she was right about her gut instinct. "Well don't just sit there, eat!" she smiled. Chloe looked at Oliver and smiled then reached for the stack of pancakes and began to fill her plate.

"So Oliver, I played with my computer a little bit and was having some troubles with it."

"Really?" he spoke filling his plate. "What kind of troubles?"

"Well, something about pop ups and then I couldn't Google, I had to use Bing…" she frowned.

"Oh that's an easy fix." He smiled.

"Good," she smiled.

"You work on computers?" Chloe asked curious.

"Yeah a little." He spoke.

"Really?" Mary spoke squinting her eyes at him. "Didn't you say you're a computer programmer?"

"Really?" Chloe asked.

"I am,"

"Well that's cool," Chloe spoke. "I'm not too bad with computers myself." She shrugged.

"Really?" he asked. "What do you have?"

"Mac Book."

"Good choice," he grinned. And the race was on to who could out tech the other. Mary fixed Joe a plate and sat back and watched as the sparks flew between her guests.

"Well, Mr. Smarty pants," Chloe challenged. "I bet you can't." she paused as she heard Mary laughing. "Oh…. sorry." She blushed.

"It's alright," she spoke. "I've been thoroughly entertained."

"Well enough about me, what do you do?" Oliver challenged.

"I'm a reporter," she spoke as if were nothing.

"For?" he asked.

"The Daily Planet,"

"That's a good paper,". He had had a pulse on all the world's media and usually had a stack of papers to read in the morning, the Planet was one of them.

"Now Chloe, don't be so modest," Mary spoke. "She's been nominated for several awards"

"That's excellent," he smiled.

"Well it's a life," she smiled.

"And one to most certainly be proud of." He was in awe, the inquisitive aspect of the newspaper business totally fit what he knew of her.

"Oliver?" Mary spoke while helping Joe to drink his juice. "Are you planning to spend your entire vacation here?" Mary asked.

Chloe turned to face him. "You're on vacation?"

He nodded. "I am, I finally got a reprieve from work." He shrugged.

Too many things were clicking in Chloe's head. All she knew, all she heard, she was trained to lock onto facts, panic, she needed to get away. "Where did you say you're from?" Chloe asked softly.

"I haven't said Angel," Oliver wasn't prepared for that question, but the look on her face; it was unreadable, but it seemed like the answer to the question seemed important. "I'm actually from Europe, this is my first time to the states." He spoke.

Chloe shot up out of her chair like a rocket. "I gotta go," she spoke leaving.

Oliver looked at Mary and launched out of his seat to follow her. "Angel, wait!" he shouted. Chloe just shook her head. Oliver jogged a little to catch up to her. He reached and grabbed her arm. "Please, wait, tell me what's going on?"

She turned to face him and her expression nearly stopped his heart. "It's you?" she whispered.

"Me? What are you getting at?" he spoke softly.

She took a deep breath, "A year ago, I fell onto a website for some very sophisticated software. I needed help, it took some doing, but I found the help desk. I started IM'ing this IT guy….."

"Good god, your Snrkyaltr?" he spoke. His guard was down and his accent made an appearance in grand style.

"You have an accent."

"Is that bad?" he cleared his throat. "Because I'm quite practiced at hiding it." He spoke and sounded like he did before. Chloe shook her head and laughed.

"This is just…..crazy,"

"Crazy? This is bloody incredible." His accent was back in force. Chloe tried to move away, her face aflame with embarrassment. "What? Angel, why are you blushing?" he asked softly.

"Pffft, I don't know …" she rolled her eyes. "Could it be our conversation last night? I admitted to you about …you," She thought for a moment, "oh god…" She covered her mouth with her hand.

"Angel," He spoke looking down at her. "I may be able write software but you're moving at a speed I can't quite keep up with." He smiled. She put her head down shaking it. "Wait, is this because you told me you thought I was perfect?" he smiled. Chloe just wanted the earth to swallow her whole. "Angel, I'm far from it. I have flaws; believe me I make mistakes, tons of them."

He pulled her into a hug, she pressed her cheek against his chest. "I just can't believe it's you and you're here?" she looked up at him in awe.

"I can't believe we found each other." He grinned.

"So now what?"

"Well, I'm sure we've totally piqued Mary's curiosity," he spoke. "Should we go finish breakfast?"

"God, you have an accent." she smiled up at him.

He cleared his throat. "Better?" he smiled. She wrinkled her nose with her smile. His accent was just, guh. "How about this? After breakfast we maybe take a walk?" he smiled. Chloe nodded, biting her lip. He pulled back, took her hand in his and led her back toward the house.

"Is everything ok?" Mary asked ever so sweetly.

"Yes," Oliver and Chloe replied at the same time. Mary's smile only got bigger.

"Everything is just fine, thank you." Oliver spoke as he pulled out Chloe's chair for her. Chloe sat, she looked up at him and smiled. He just winked at her then sat down in his own chair.

"So Mary what do you have us doing today?" Chloe asked cheerily.

"Well, I was wanting to work on my flower boxes," she smiled looking at Joe. "But I think Joe and I might go to the park today."

"So you're day is free then?" Oliver asked Chloe.

"I guess." She shrugged. The butterflies starting to wake low in her belly.

"Well then why don't we go for a walk after breakfast than?" he asked.

"Sounds nice." She blushed as she continued eating her breakfast.

00000

Chloe watched as Oliver helped Mary get Joe into the van. After she shut Joe's door, she turned and then whispered something into his ear before she walked around the front of the vehicle to the driver's side. She got in, started the vehicle up, and drove away. Chloe who had been standing on the steps moved to Oliver.

"What was that about?" she asked. She was feeling bold, and slipped her hand into his. He laced his fingers with hers.

"It appears that I've been helping out a cupid." He smiled down at her. "She has apparently prepared a picnic basket for us and said that the huge willow on the north side of the property is great for picnicking."

"God bless her." She spoke. "You know that's a great idea, but since we have all day? I know of a better place we could drive to?"

"Are you asking me out?" he teased as he pulled her into a hug.

"Maayyybbee? You saying yes?" her eyes danced with light as she grinned.

"Absolutely Angel." He cupped her face gently in his hand. "Show me your secrets, let me see you." His expression was filled with wonder and an expression she couldn't quite read.

"Well, then," she whispered, her voice was shaky, "Let's go and get that basket and get out of here," she winked. She pulled back and they walked hand in hand into the house.

00000

Chloe drove them in her Prius, to Crater Lake. She took them to a quiet out of the way corner, a place where she liked to sit and write when she was a kid. There were trees, a small spot of beach and wild flowers all over the place. Oliver grabbed the picnic basket from the back seat and Chloe grabbed the blanket they snagged.

They walked in awkward silence to a spot under one of the older trees. Chloe spread the blanket and Oliver set the basket down. Chloe walked away slightly facing the lake. Arms crossed over her chest, she sighed heavily. Her mind was a chaotic jumble of new thoughts and emotions.

"A penny for your thoughts?" His breath was on her ear and his hands were on her shoulders and he let his accent flow. She sighed leaning her head back against him. Her heart was racing, and she was a total wreck and his accent just threw her further off balance.

"I wouldn't know where to begin?" she purred.

"The best place to start is the beginning." He whispered.

"Is it really that easy?" she spoke turning to face him. "To start at a beginning where it isn't sunshine and roses? "

"Sunshine sometimes burns and roses can be thorny Angel." He smiled. He gently traced the side of her face with an index finger, staring at her as if she were the most sacred treasure. "I have gotten to know your mind when we've chatted. Now, here, I've seen the light in your eyes and it's amazing. I can tell you with absolute certainty that nothing you say can change what I see or what I know."

"So," she searched his face, trying to find some clue to his mind. Chloe smiling at him. "What you're saying is you're pretty stubborn?"

"Oh yeah, I am most definitely stubborn." He grinned. "And fiercely loyal."

"Good to know."

"There is something else you should know..."

"You're married?"

"No."

"Engaged?."

"Noooo,"

"You're…" Chloe was silenced with a kiss. One that was tempting and satisfying, sweet and hungry. So full of contradictions and hope. He pulled back slowly. The smile on his face was soft and arrogant. Chloe giggled like a school girl. "Think you can get your way with that Marshall?"

"You tell me." He smirked. She closed her eyes and sighed heavily

"Um where were we again?" Oliver took her hand in his and led her under the canopy of the old tree. He sat down on the blanket and leaned against the tree's trunk. He patted the spot next to him for Chloe to sit. She did and sat next to him, resting her head against his arm.

"Why is this so awkward?" Chloe asked looking up at Oliver.

"I know right? It feels like I'm 13 and just discovered girls." He laughed. He moved to wrap the arm Chloe was leaning on around her. They sat for awhile just trying to absorb the magnitude of what was going on.

"You know what I don't get?"

"What's that Angel?"

"How here you have such a quiet strength. You're confident bordering on slightly arrogant." She teased. "But I've seen you when you're center of attention, and you're shy and seem so uncertain of yourself. How could that possibly be? I mean look at you." She looked up at him, an eyebrow raised and a blush had crept along his cheeks.

He shook his head, "Ever since my days in Academy, I've stood out. Great in athletics, smart, tall. Everyone around me was my friend because I could do or get something for them. It was no different with the girls too. To date me was a status thing. Not one of them wanted to know my mind."

"I'm sorry, Ollie," she whispered.

"Ollie?"

"Well, Oliver does seem kinda stuffy." She laughed and looked up at him.

"Huh, Ollie," he repeated. "My first nick name…. I like it." He sighed. Chloe giggled at that and turned to look back at the lake.

"So is that why you're reluctant to take over your dads' firm? Getting lost in the shuffle? I couldn't even begin to imagine what it would be like to run a large and well off tech firm." Oliver listened, and was torn. She had assumed that the family business he was supposed to take over was the software company. He had an opportunity here to correct her; to tell her that his fate was far more than CEO. Could he tell her so soon that he was so much more than HE pretended to be?

"It's a life changer," he spoke. Oliver was glad that she was facing away from him. He closed his eyes and groaned inwardly. In a split second when he could have been totally honest he became less than a Prince, he became a coward.

"It really can't be that bad?"

"Oh Angel, I have huge expectations to meet," He spoke sadly. "It seems like everyone wants something from me, I'm a means to an end. " He sighed. "All my father wants is to retire. As his only child, I'm the most logical person for the job. If I don't take this position it will go to someone far less qualified."

"So just do it already." It was a simple and matter of fact statement. His father very well could have sacrificed all of his dreams to do as he was expected. Why couldn't he? He had wanted to find love that's why. And here she sat quite possibly the one, and he was pumping her so full of half truths that if she knew the whole truth she may never ever forgive him.

"I wish it were as easy as that," he sighed and shook his head. Chloe rested her hand on his thigh and squeezed. That sent a jolt through him breaking his brooding. "And what of you?"

"What about me?" she spoke confidently.

"How does an award nominated journalist who I would bet the family fortune against has stories left unwritten is here, in Smallville, Kansas with apparently time on her hands?"

"Pffft, well you may have complimented my very driven life, but my nosy cousin and her equally nosy boyfriend don't share your opinion."

"Aren't they happy with your successes?"

"Well to them my successes have come at a cost."

"And that is?"

"Me being terminally single."

"And that means?"

"Lois, my cousin has been setting me up on blind dates, hoping that I find someone to fall madly in love with…." She spoke sadly.

"I understand…she's just looking out for you."

"Ohh please. She's in a relationship and she's trying to set the whole world up. Only my crazy cousin took it a step further. THEY called my editor, and HE took their side. I'm on a mandatory 2 week paid vacation." She growled.

"Ouch." He spoke.

"Yeah," she shook her head. Chloe was angry.

"Well then." He spoke. "I say you show her and enjoy your vacation.. with me." He smiled down at her.

"But your vacation?"

"Just like I told Mary, is mine to do with as I choose."

"But? "

"No," he spoke. "No buts." He stood quickly and tossed her over his shoulder.

"What are you doing?"

"Well it seems like we both have to live life a little." He spoke and kicked his flip flops off.

"What are you doing Ollie?" she spoke more forcefully.

"Starting by living dangerously." He laughed and ran into the lake.

00000

It was nearly 6 and Mary was doing the evening dishes. Her plan had worked perfectly and Oliver and Chloe weren't back yet. She made herself a cup of tea and wandered out the front door to sit on her porch swing. Joe was in their room watching the television. Mary sipped her tea and smiled as she saw Chloe's car come down the lane. Mary made a hasty retreat into the house.

00000

They got out of her car, Oliver grabbing the picnic basket. They walked hand in hand to the front steps. Oliver set the basket down as Chloe moved to stand on the first step so she could have better access to him. She leaned and kissed him, she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. He pulled back and kissed her cheek.

"You may regret doing that Angel." He whispered.

"Why?" she blushed.

"Because one of these days, it's not going to be enough for me." Their eyes locked.

"That's good, because I don't think the kisses will be enough for me either."

"So glad we're on the same page." He smiled. She nodded.

"Sounds an awful lot like you're falling for me Marshall." She purred.

"Then I really need to work on my communication skills," he smirked.

"I think your skills are just fine." Chloe blushed.

"Thanks Angel, you better go and get some rest. We have a long day ahead tomorrow." She nodded.

"What time will you be buy in the morning?"

"See you at 6,"

"Yeesh." She frowned. She then kissed his cheek again and then rushed back to her car, hopped in and drove away. Oliver just watched, he turned and picked up the picnic basket. He needed to get to his computer, he needed to make some plans.

Oliver took the picnic basket into the kitchen and emptied its contents. His mind drifting to the day and what a treasure he found in Chloe Sullivan. Could she forgive him when the truth of who he is finally comes out? He sighed, he would cross that bridge when he got to it. She admitted that fun wasn't in her repertoire and he was going to give her the best day tomorrow.

He finished cleaning and went upstairs to his room. He pulled out his computer grateful he remembered to bring his cord in and charged his machine. He opened to his secured search engine an started making plans.

Chloe took a shower a smile plastered to her face. She couldn't believe that her vacation had proven to be a good thing after all. She shut off the water, and wrapped herself in a towel. He promised her a romantic day tomorrow, and that promise made her insides gooey. He was everything that she could have imagined or wanted. For once in her life she was going to trust, whole heartedly, and hopefully not foolishly him.

Chloe made her way across to her room and flopped on her bed, she wasn't sure if she would be able to sleep at all wondering what on earth Ollie had up his sleeve.

00000

Oliver was up early. He was dressed in jeans, plane white t-shirt , a dark grey blazer and black cowboy boots. He entered the kitchen fully intent on making coffee. There was a thermos with two mugs hooked on the handle sitting on the counter. A sticky note was stuck to the thermos.

There are some cinnamon rolls in the oven, the coffee is her favorite blend, have a great day.

Mary.

Oliver shook his head, that woman was something else. He found the oven mitt on the stove and opened the oven and pulled out the cinnamon rolls wrapped in tin foil. He set them out on the counter to let them cool. He looked at his watch, he needed to get moving so they wouldn't be late. Oliver grabbed the cinnamon rolls and the thermos and headed out to the jeep. He set everything on the passenger seat after he sat in the driver's seat. He started the jeep then drove next door to the Kent farm.

00000

Chloe had had trouble sleeping, she tossed and turned trying to imagine what on earth Oliver had planned. She went through several outfits, from shorts to skirts. She finally settled on jeans and a pale green blouse and black flats. She put her hair up and then let it down. She sat on the edge of the bed, and sighed. Why on earth was she so nervous? She left her hair down and was about to go to the kitchen to start the coffee when she heard a knock at the front door. She looked at her watch and gasped. She had spent nearly an hour getting ready. She ran down the stairs, to the front door, opened it and gasped. He looked so hot.

"Morning, Angel." He purred with his rich accent.

"Hi," she blushed, she stepped into him and kissed him.

"You ready?" he purred. She nodded then grabbed her purse then exited, he held the door for her. Oliver had moved the goodies to the back seat floor board before he went to the door for Chloe. He opened the jeep door for her and then shut it after she sat. He walked around the front, hopped in the jeep. He buckled up, and they took off on their adventure.

"So what are we doing that requires us to be up before the crack of dawn?" she whined.

"Well," he smiled. "You'll just have to wait and see," he grinned. They drove nearly half an hour to get to the Falling Star Ranch on the north side of Smallville. He pulled down the drive toward the barns. There tied to the fence was a rather stout saddled horse. Oliver parked and then went and opened the door for Chloe.

"Wait here, I'll be just a second." He winked. He went into the barn and was gone for several minutes. He returned, passing her only to open the back seat of the jeep to grab the coffee and the cinnamon rolls. He shut the door and led her to the horse.

"Uhhh,"

"This is Henry." He smiled.

"Henry? A horse." She looked terrified. Oliver smiled at her and nodded. He put the cinnamon rolls in the saddle bag and then handed the thermos to Chloe. He stepped in her personal space and Chloe was inundated by his cologne, his heat. She didn't realize his arms were around her until she was suddenly sitting on the saddle. "What? But," He only smiled as he untied the horses reigns from the fence and then mounted behind Chloe in the saddled. "I.."

"Just relax, Angel, I've got you." He purred in her ear. He wrapped an arm around her waist as he turned the horse and they trotted off.

They ended up on a tall hill overlooking a valley of sunflowers. Oliver dismounted Henry and then helped Chloe out of the saddle. He led them to a rock outcropping. He dropped Henry's reigns as he reached into the saddle bags for the cinnamon rolls. Chloe sat on a large flat rock and stared out at the flowers. The light of the new day was starting to just peak over the horizon.

Ollie sat next to her on the rock and opened up the tin foil. Chloe sighed slipping out of her reverie and opening the thermos and pouring them each a cup of coffee.

"I've been fortunate enough to travel, and have seen many sunrises many different places. Here, right now, with you? I'm seeing it for the first time." He whispered. Chloe just blushed. "Good morning Angel."

"Good morning Ollie." She blushed. She watched in wonder, drinking her nectar of the gods and eating a fabulous cinnamon roll as the day broke and the sunflowers woke with a kiss from the sun. Oliver had slipped his arm around her shoulder and she leaned into his strength.

"Wow." She spoke.

"Amazing huh?" he looked down at her.

"Stunning." She peeled off another bite of a cinnamon roll. "Wow, Mary knows how to bake."

"I know." He grinned. "The coffee is fantastic too."

"Oh yes." Chloe spoke taking another sip. "I didn't really sleep at all last night." She whispered.

"Why? Are you alright?"

"Just fine, just really nervous about today."

"Awee, Angel, no need to be nervous. I promised you a fun day and a fun day is what you're going to get. I'll be very careful with you I promise."

"Thanks Ollie." He kissed her temple. They sat and enjoyed the morning come into full glory.

The cinnamon roll eaten and all the coffee gone. Oliver stood and held a hand out to help Chloe up. She slipped her hand into his and he pulled her up gently. "You ready to enjoy the rest of the day?" She couldn't speak, only nod. He chuckled softly. Oliver turned and whistled for Henry who wandered off slightly. The horse trotted up to them whickering slightly. Oliver reached out and pet his muzzle. Chloe scooted to stand behind Oliver.

"Don't you want to pet him?" Chloe shook her head. "You'll hurt his feelings." Chloe frowned at Oliver then stepped in front of Oliver and reached and touched the horse's muzzle. The horse ran his lips over her palm and Chloe giggled. "See nothing to be afraid of." He gathered the reigns and turned to Chloe. "Ready to head back?" she nodded. He scooped her up again and sat her on the saddle. He again climbed up behind her. He nudge Henry on and they rode back to the farm.

They were back in the jeep and heading South. "Now where?" Chloe asked.

"You really don't like surprises do you?"

Chloe sighed. "Nah, I've never really had surprise work out in my favor."

"Well, I can guarantee that all these will work out in your favor." He grinned.

"Thanks."

"Now yesterday, you sort of mentioned that you don't get to go dancing that much."

"Yeah, I really don't know how." She frowned.

"Well going to a stuffy academy like I had to, we had to learn all kinds of dance." He sighed. "Who knows someday you may need to dance somewhere fun and maybe fancy—Like your Pulitzer awards banquet." He winked at her. "So this morning you and I are going to have dance lessons."

"But you said you know how to dance."

"I do, but what kind of a gentleman would I be if I didn't take the lesson with you." Chloe just laughed as he drove them to Fredricksberg. He pulled into Maisey's School of dance. He again exited before her and opened her doors for her. They entered the dance school hand in hand.

It was a huge dance floor and the room was surrounded by wall to ceiling mirrors. Chloe looked around and there were several pictures hung of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire.

"Welcome," an older woman spoke as she stepped through a door. "You must be my 9am."

"Yes Ma'am, I'm Oliver Marshall and this is Chloe Sullivan." He smiled as he took the woman's offered hand and shook it. Chloe did as well.

"Well welcome, I'm Elise Maisey." She smiled. "So have either of you danced before?" she asked as she gave Oliver the once over.

"I have, Ma'am." He spoke. "Today however it's all about this young lady." He wrapped his arms around Chloe who was blushing.

"Well young lady, do you have a dance style you've wanted to learn?"

Chloe sighed. "When I was a little girl," she spoke softly. "My dad would read to me the story of Cinderella. I loved the part where she danced with her Prince at the royal ball. I've always really wanted to learn how to ball room dance." Oliver had years to school his expressions and he was grateful. When she started talking about princes, he couldn't have been more stunned if she had called him by his real name.

"Then ball room it is." The middle age lady spoke with a warm smile. "Let me go put on some music and we can begin."

"Ballroom huh?" Oliver whispered in her ear.

"Silly huh?"

"Absolutely not, I think it's sweet."

Elise returned. "Now, I have the music cued, let me show you the steps and then we can try it with music." She smiled.

Chloe had never thought dance lessons could be so fun. After thirty minutes of learning steps, she and Oliver were cut loose to try them with music. One more thing he surprised her with was his grace on the dance floor. She felt the warmth of his hands on her body and with each pass around the floor, she felt safer and safer in his arms. He was so poised and confident. It was as if the style of dancing was made for him. Oliver couldn't help but imagine Chloe in any number of elegant ball gowns as they danced around the ball room of the manor.

After nearly an hour of just dancing, Oliver and Chloe left their dance lessons. "That was so much fun." She smiled as they left the studio.

"Good I'm glad." He grinned. He took her hand in his and they walked down the street.

"So now we're going to go do something that I've never done."

"And that is?"

"There is this paint ball theater." He grinned.

"Oh Marshall, are you challenging me?"

"You've done this before I take it?"

"Oh yeah I'm the reigning Planet champion in singles and the current team Captain.."

"Well then yes, I am challenging you." He grinned.

"Ok, but don't say I didn't warn you." She waggled her eyes at him.

00000

Oliver hurt everywhere. They walked hand in hand back toward his jeep. "You put up a heck of a good fight Marshall." Chloe grinned. She watched as he smirked.

"Alright, I give, I bow to your paint ball prowess, lady."

"Thank you, thank you very much." She grinned.

"I haven't hurt this much since my first fencing tournament in school."

"You know how to fence too?" He nodded. "That's soo cool."

"Eh, it's nothing really." Trying to deflect the attention. " I don't know about you, but I'm starved."

"Me too," she smiled up at him. "Now Fredricksberg is known for their Reuben's and curly fries."

"Sounds delicious." He smiled. They reached the jeep and after the routine of Oliver's manners, they were driving to the other end of town to the Corn Stalk Café.

00000

"I am stuffed." Oliver spoke as he and Chloe drove back towards Granville "That was a great sandwich."

"Told ya," Chloe smiled. She sighed. "Before I forget, I just want to say thank you. I'm having a great day."

"I'm glad Angel, but the day isn't over yet." He grinned. The drive continued in companionable silence. When they reached Granville, Oliver drove them clear to the other side of town to the large go cart track.

"Go carts?"

"Yes," he smiled. "Unless you're a champion at this too?

"No, I've actually never done this."

"Well then an adventure indeed." He smiled.

00000

"I can't believe I won." Oliver spoke in wonder.

"You raced good Marshall." She laughed.

"Thank you. You did too Sullivan."

"Aww shucks." She blushed. Oliver looked at the dash clock.

"Okay Angel so for our last event, " he smiled. "Requires us to get dressed up." He grinned.

"Sorry?" she asked.

"We are having dinner, at the Regent." He spoke.

"THE Regent?" she whispered. "That huge castle looking place on the other side of Smallville?"

"That would be the one." He grinned.

"Ohnononononononono." Chloe protested. Oliver was confused by her apprehension. He found a place to pull his jeep over and he put it in park.

"What's the problem?"

"I." she stumbled.

"Yeeeessss?"

"I can't, I've never….you,"

"Chloe," he spoke softly. "What's the problem?" he watched tears fill her eyes. "Ok, let me guess, is it because it's a formal restaurant?"

"I don't.. I've never."

"Ok, first of all take a deep breath." He smiled. "I would never put you in a position to be uncomfortable, ever. If it's the place settings, that is just a way over done way for people to make other people feel inferior." He spoke honestly. "I don't care if you know what fork does what or is for what. I adore you on the basis of you. I wanted to treat you to fine dining. If it's truly that uncomfortable for you we can eat anywhere else."

"Oh Ollie," she frowned. "See I dated this guy a little in college who took me to a fancy restaurant and when I screwed up the entire fork thing, he stood me up. Left me to pay the check, I was so humiliated."

"What an idiot." He shook his head. "Any gentleman would NEVER treat a lady like that. EVER!" he snarled. "A woman should be complimented, always."

"Is that in the handbook?" she sniffed.

"The entire first chapter," he smiled. "Look, If you're really that uncomfortable just let me know, we can make other plans."

"I..with you? I'll give it a shot." She smiled.

"I appreciate that really. If at any time you aren't having a good time just let me know. We'll leave." He smiled.

"Thanks Oliver." She smiled.

"You're welcome Angel." He leaned and kissed her. "Now, let's get back so we can change and make our reservation." He grinned. Chloe nodded.

00000

Oliver dressed in a charcoal suit and a green tie. He was met in the living room by Mary.

"Well don't you look sharp." She spoke walking around him.

"It's just a suit Mary," he smiled.

"Bah, Chloe is a lucky girl."

"I know I've been gone most of the day, how are things with you and Joe? Do you need anything?"

"Nope, we're good." She smiled. "I worked on my flower boxes today." She grinned.

"Well let me know." He smiled.

"Do you have flowers for Chloe?" Mary asked.

"There is a bouquet waiting for her at our table." He smiled.

"Well then to show up at the door, here." Mary spoke going to the porch and then coming back with a small cluster of pink tulips.

"Thanks ," he smiled. He looked at his watch. "Well, I better go." He smiled.

"Have a good night Oliver," she smiled. She kissed his cheek then went back to her bedroom to check on Joe.

"Good night Mary," he spoke and left the house.

00000

Chloe stood in front of the full length mirror in Martha's room. She was in a green and black knee length cocktail dress. Her hair was up with loose curls surrounding her face. She had tear drop earrings and a matching necklace. She stared at her shoes, they were a treat, for her award nomination. They were name brand, high heels and were very strappy. She dabbed some perfume behind her ears, on her wrists and to the backs of her knees. She sighed and went back to her room. She packed her clutch and then went downstairs.

She went into the kitchen for a glass of water when she heard the knock on the door. "Come on in," she shouted. She sipped on her water and turned and nearly choked on it. He was hot in jeans, hot in short and a t-shirt, but sexy as hell in a suit.

00000

Oliver heard her call him into the residence, he took a deep breath as he saw the back of her gown and when she turned around, he was grateful for every ounce of his training. He hid his surprise well. Chloe fit the angel title to a tee.

He saw her choking on her water and stepped up to her to rub her back. "Easy Angel," he purred. "Are you alright?"

She nodded as she continued to cough. "I am….just swallowed wrong is…..all." she finally got herself under control.

"You are exquisite," he smiled. "Absolutely beautiful."

"You're not so bad yourself." She smirked. 'Keep it together, Chlo, just because he's sex on a stick, it doesn't' meant you need to crawl up his leg.'

"Thank you Angel." He handed her the tulips. "And these are for you."

"Wow, I…" she took them stunned. "Tulips are my favorite." She was simply amazed.

"We better get going, beautiful." He spoke. Chloe nodded. She put her flowers in the vase on the counter and filled it with water. She let go of the breath she was holding and turned to see a strong hand being held out for her. She took it readily. He smiled as they walked arm in arm out to the jeep.

00000

Chloe was nervous. She hadn't been to an elite restaurant in years. With Ollie though she was so comfortable. He truly was a gentleman's gentleman. He pulled out her chair, nudged it in for her. Chloe looked at the table, and all the silverware and all the glassware and started to panic. He put a hand on her shoulder and leaned to whisper in her ear.

"Just breath Angel, this isn't a test, there's no pass/fail here. Trust me."

Chloe nodded. Oliver moved to the other side of the table and sat. A few moments later a bouquet of tulips was delivered.

"Wow, you're good." She smiled.

"Well, you make it easy." He teased.

They opened the menus, "Wow look at all the choices." She frowned. Oliver could sense her apprehension again.

"You can order whatever you want," he spoke quietly.

"It's just."

He took her hand in his. "Angel,"

"I'm sorry, I'm just not used to being spoiled. I don't mean to be such a party pooper."

"You are no such thing." He spoke. "Have a little faith in me." He winked at her. Chloe blushed. She nodded. That was the dam that broke. She felt more comfortable immediately, and followed his lead. She ended up having the best night of her life. Especially when he asked the waiter to remove all the excess dining utensils. They shared a bottle of wine and great conversation. When dinner was over, they left hand in hand.

Oliver drove them just to the outside of town to an open field. He opened the back of the jeep and he spread a blanket out, just a bit away from the rear of his vehicle. He went and turned on the radio so soft music played. He then returned, loosened his tie and joined Chloe on the blanket. She was sitting with her legs out in front of her, shoes off, resting on her arms.

"So how was dinner?" he smiled.

"I'm maybe not so scared of big restaurants anymore."

"Good, see, it's all about the company."

"I'm starting to believe you're right." She grinned.

"Good, good." He stood. She just looked up at him.

"Would you sit down or something, it's hurting my neck to look up at you." She laughed.

"I could, but I think I would rather dance with you." He spoke softly.

"You can't be serious? Didn't we dance together already today?"

"We did, and that was formal dancing." he smiled. "That dress is made for dancing, just not ball room."

"What?"

"Don't you want to dance with me Angel?" he mock pouted. She shook her head no.

"I dare you." Chloe gasped. She stood up quickly and scowled at him.

"You…"

"I what? Got you to stand up didn't I?" he laughed as he grabbed her gently by the hips and pulled her closer. Chloe just laughed then one of her favorite 80's songs began to play on the radio, Take My Breath Away, by Berlin. And the coolest ending to a perfect day ended with a slow dance under the stars.