Forever Yours and Yours Alone

by pumpkinmoose22

When an apartment suffers from a mysterious fire, Lois Lane stumbles upon an old journal belonging to none other than the Man of Steel. Conflicted between her reluctant attraction to Superman and a curious draw towards Clark Kent, Lois has to make a decision while the world is threatened by its greatest foe yet - someone bent on total annihilation of the human race. Post SR.

20. Captivate

AN: Hey guys! I'm super sorry this is a day late! I had to work an impromptu overnight shift and my usual routine suffered from that. I hope that all of you enjoyed the horrible state of affairs last chapter! I'm so evil, I know. But this chapter will be a bit better. A huge thank you to all those who have favorited and are following this story! I also appreciate all the people who have left reviews and have taken time to read my work - all of you are incredible! Please let me know what you think of this new Kal-El Lois has to deal with!

Reviews will bring Superman back! :D

20 Captivate

Christmas came and went but nobody celebrated. In fact, nobody even realized the holiday passed due to everyone's life becoming a complete and utter train wreck. Kal-El had lived up to every threat he uttered that first day. The rules and regulations were available right when he said they would be and they went into effect immediately. The first ones to protest were talk show hosts and news anchors. Unfortunately, the moment their protests were broadcast live, Kal-El arrived and mercilessly sent every person to speak out in the television stations to the Phantom Zone. People learned quickly after that to keep their heads down and do as they were told. The newspapers were free to print the news as long as they didn't print anything that would be categorized as treason.

There was a curfew where everyone had to be inside off the streets by ten at night and remain there until six in the morning. There were hundreds of people who at first defied the curfew but their fate was to be vaporized by the para-demons who weren't as lenient or "compassionate" as Kal-El (who never killed but banished souls to an unknown dimension of terror). Large structures were built to shelter the homeless during the night so as to keep them off the streets too. And in third world countries even huts had been built to curb the excuse.

Every person also had to be registered into a system run by Kryptonian technology. We weren't branded but we were forced to wear bracelets at all times that displayed all our personal information if any of us ran into or found ourselves in trouble. The bracelets were called ID's, just like any other kind, but they felt like a physical reminder of imprisonment rather than identification. Even new born children had to wear them.

Although these new strict laws were in force, Kal-El had granted that the laws of government in each country were still followed with the understanding that they were regulated according to his discretion if anything seemed unfitting. He made sure that the laws were obeyed by having the local law enforcements report through technology all that transpired; he also had them shepherded by the para-demons. By the end of the first week of the change there were cameras in every city and town with every satellite under Kal-El's ever watchful eye.

We were granted privacy in our own homes but nobody dared breathe a word of what they really felt since everyone knew Kal-El's hearing could pick out even the very hint of treason. As the days turned into weeks, the world slowly began to go back to its usual habits with the exception of crime; any who attempted it were thrown in the Phantom Zone or obliterated by para-demon ray guns. Children went to school (the curriculum now included a history of Apokolips and the "utopia" it brought to all mankind), young adults picked up their college lives, adults returned to work, and the elderly relaxed in their homes or care facilities.

What else could we do? We were at the mercy of Darkseid and Kal-El, both incredibly dangerous alien beings. The militaries of each country were even under Kal-El's command; none of them would be able to help us. The Justice League was gone. Any who opposed Kal-El was sentenced the Phantom Zone never to return. There really was nothing that we could do without jeopardizing our lives or the lives of our loved ones.

Despite the frustration we all felt at having to live in such dire circumstances, we found ways of showing our individuality. People focused more on what they were good at instead of what they lacked in an attempt to keep hope. We treated each other more kindly and I know it wasn't just because of wanting to look good in front of the cameras. When humans are threatened, we band together and do everything in our power to support, strengthen, and defend each other. It's kind of interesting what a worldwide threat will do.

I sighed as I dropped Jason off at school, kissing him delicately on the forehead. "I love you, son."

"I love you too, Mommy," he muttered.

Even as he walked away I could see his little shoulders slump. Jason had done a really good job trying to be upbeat and positive but his good spirits were chipped away every time he saw his father on television banishing someone to the Phantom Zone. My son was going to be in serious need of therapy after all of this was over. Oh, yes, I was determined that this new reality was not going to last long. There was no way I could live in a world where the love of my life was controlled by an evil alien bent on universal domination.

It had been two weeks and I was already going crazy. I'd go to work, chase down stories, write up the news, and look over at Clark's desk so often that my neck would kink up. Others had noticed his disappearance but Perry waved them off by saying he got a call that Clark's mother was in critical condition and he was on leave until further notice. I was terrified that someone was going to put two and two together especially if they started digging. Martha was fine. She was actually back in Smallville, living on her farm, quietly waiting for the storms of this horrible situation to pass; Kal-El had allowed people to return living in the smaller cities and villages.

The second Clark had disappeared that first day, Martha had whispered to me what needed to be done. I was petrified but willing to do what she asked; it was the only feasible way to get Clark back without bloodshed. The only reason why it was taking so long was because we had to wait for things to settle down – the less Darkseid suspected the better. These past two weeks had been torturous but proved to be in my favor. After waiting for the opportune moment, I had nailed an interview with Kal-El. He just happened to take up his main residence in Metropolis – big surprise – and become a fan of the Daily Planet for its open allegiance to Darkseid. So when the call came to ask for an interview, he'd gladly accepted.

The interview was scheduled to take place in an hour and I was a mess. The honest truth was this wasn't really an interview; it was a seduction attempt.

Richard had laughed himself silly when he'd heard the plan but that's because my seduction attempts at him had been terrible. The reality was (and I was too nice to say this to him) I'd never been able to really seduce Richard because I didn't feel for him the way I felt for Clark. I was willing to pull out every single stop I had in order to get that man to succumb to my will. If I could get Clark to eat out of the palm of my hand, I could find a way to free the League; Chloe had revealed that Clark had once confided in her that people can escape the Phantom Zone.

My job was to seduce Clark and gain his confidences so when the time was right, I could get my hands on the black crystal and release every person Clark had imprisoned. It would take time but it would all be worth it. I took several deep breaths as I got in the elevator that would take me to the bullpen of the Daily Planet. I hadn't even made it halfway towards my desk when Perry shouted for me to get into Conference Room 2. Not even bothering to set down my bag, I walked in to find Perry, Richard, my father, and Chloe sitting around the table.

I looked on sadly at Richard who was taking his new adjustment pretty well seeing as he had to relearn how to do everything with his left hand. He smiled just as sadly when he caught my eye. Chloe enveloped me in a hug and my father nodded in my direction looking rather grave.

"Alright, this is it," Perry muttered after slamming the door closed. "Are you ready, Lane?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," I muttered, my heart beating wildly.

Richard frowned. "You're not seriously going to try to seduce him wearing that are you?"

I looked down at my red button up blouse, black pencil skirt, and bright red stilettos. "What's wrong with what I've got on, Richard?"

"It doesn't even look that…revealing," he finished lamely because my gaze was so fierce it would have burned a hole in him if I had heat vision.

"Well it's a good thing you've never tried to seduce Clark before Richard because I would have failed miserably following your advice!" I snapped.

"I think Richard's right," Perry muttered.

I rounded on him, feeling my cheeks burn. "Perry!"

"What? Lois, you're trying to seduce not go out to lunch."

"Oh for the love of –" I stopped myself and took a deep breath. Even my father appeared to be in agreement with Richard and Perry. They didn't get it.

Chloe, however, was looking at me triumphant. "You're going to knock him off his feet, Lois." The men immediately began to protest but Chloe cut them off. "All of you fail to realize that Clark isn't the typical male. He's not going to be attracted to the things that all of you would be attracted to."

"Exactly!" I cried, exasperated.

Comprehension started to dawn on my father's face. "It's because he isn't hu–"

"Dad!" I cried, cutting him off.

He stopped, looking terrified. We all waited but nothing happened. It was strictly forbidden to use any terminology that would draw Clark's ears our way.

Richard cleared his throat. "So, you mean to tell me that Clark isn't like other men?"He asked the question casually, masking his disbelief well.

I shook my head. "Not entirely. He's attracted to women the same as you but he first falls in love before appreciating clothing. He sees the woman not the clothes she has on. Sure the clothes become a bonus later but... anyway! Dressing like this is the best way I can impress him and catch his eye so I don't need any more comments from the peanut gallery, thank you," I finished, my face flushed.

"Well, Clark fell head over heels for you the first time he saw you," Perry chuckled, "if what you say is true Lois, I think you're going to win him over in no time."

"You're forgetting that Clark has been brainwashed into acting the same as the rest of his race," Chloe interjected. "Clark explained to me once that his kind didn't like physical contact even in their married relationships."

"You're kidding! Why?" Richard wondered.

Chloe shrugged. "It was passed down and sort of became a part of accepted social behavior. They would touch on occasion but only in the most emotional of circumstances and usually behind closed doors."

"Since when did you become the expert on his people's history?" Richard asked with raised eyebrows.

"Clark went to the fortress often to study with his father about his heritage. There were several bizarre things he learned and he needed someone to talk to about them. Pete and I were usually his listening ears."

"If Clark has returned to being…you know… then do you think he'll take the bait?" Perry asked, looking at Chloe.

Chloe gave me a once over and then smiled. "I think he will. Clark may be confused right now but if there's one thing I have unshaken faith in, it's his feelings for Lois."

I blushed a little and muttered, "I wish I shared your confidence, Chloe."

Chloe put her hand on my shoulder. "Believe me, Lois, just because he's forgotten everything doesn't mean his feelings have changed. You may be able to convince someone they're different but the feelings they have are never erased. They're just buried. You are the only one who can dig up Clark's feelings but you don't need to freak out about how to do it. Just be you. That's who he fell in love with."

I searched her eyes and found the reassurance I was looking for. I smiled and hugged her tightly. "Thanks Chloe," I whispered.

"That's what friends are for," she said, squeezing me back.

She'd said exactly what I needed to hear. Even though I knew without a doubt that Clark loved me, I still harbored a stupid fear that he would reject me now because I was human. After observing him for a week Chloe had confirmed to us that, judging by his pattern of living and discipline, Clark had been brainwashed by Darkseid into embracing his Kryptonian heritage. When she revealed Kryptonian physical relationships to me I quickly fell into a spiral of doubt and fear. That little revelation made the whole "Operation Seduce" plan seem nigh impossible at first. But Chloe and Martha had reminded and reassured me of my relationship with Clark. It hadn't always been about physical touch; that had blossomed after we had gained a friendship.

The General, Richard, and Perry may have been under the impression that I was going to come out of this interview as Kal-El's girlfriend but the truth was I was banking on leaving with a secure interest that would lead to friendship. If we were going to get the black crystal this plan needed to be accomplished over a period of time no matter how desperate the world was in being freed.

Chloe glanced at her watch. "You'd better get going, Lois."

I nodded, my mouth suddenly going dry. Perry clapped me on the shoulder. "You're going to be fine," he said gruffly.

"Good luck, Lo."

"Thanks Dad."

Richard grinned and wiggled his eyebrows. "If you're gone for a long time, don't worry. We'll pick up Jason."

I frowned and rolled my eyes. "Maybe you should be aware of the time so we don't have to call out a search party should you and Chloe get locked in the supply closet."

Both blushed and I smiled deviously as I waved goodbye and headed for the elevators. Kal-El had taken residence at City Hall. My taxi ride got stuck in traffic so the last ten minutes I spent on foot, rushing down the sidewalks while trying to avoid bumping into people. Out of breath, I walked past the para-demons standing on either side of the entrance doors into a brilliantly lit lobby. I walked down the hall passing several para-demons and rushed business workers; everyone seemed to be in a hurry like they didn't want to linger here longer than they could help it. As I took the elevator to the fourth floor, I regulated my breathing and grabbed my compact mirror from my bag to make some last minute touch ups. My hair was a little windswept but the curls were still rich and vibrant. I thanked my lucky stars for that.

I just barely managed to reapply some perfume and throw it and my mirror back into my bag when the elevator doors dinged open and I stepped out into a smaller reception area. A waiting section with several couches and magazines took up the left side of the room while the other harbored a receptionist desk.

A young woman with blond hair and strapping blue heels approached me holding a tablet in her hands.

"Are you Miss Lane?" she asked.

"I am."

I inwardly scowled as she sized me up and down. The dismissive expression on her face was enough to see she thought herself superior in looks. She was very proud in the way she carried herself but honestly I thought she was trying too hard. Her blouse was incredibly low cut, her makeup over the top, and her hair so full of hairspray that the blond curls looked like they were a wig. And let's be honest, nobody goes to work wearing a mini skirt and six inch strapping heels with a bow on the back unless they're trying to get someone's attention. It was clear to me that this woman lusted for power and currently Kal-El was number one in that department.

"Follow me," she said dismissively, turning on her heel and swaying her hips.

We passed the desk, heading for a pair of large cherry wood doors. She knocked twice and waited.

"Come in," a timbre voice invited.

My heart skipped a beat. The receptionist opened the door to reveal Kal-El standing with his back to us, his eyes overlooking the city through windows that reached from ceiling to floor. Sunshine bathed the room but the air conditioning kept it from being intolerable for humans. Kal-El had his hands behind his back and his head was tilted slightly – a position I'd seen before when he was leisurely enjoying the sun's rays.

"Miss Lane is here, sir," the receptionist announced.

"Thank you, Katherine," he said without turning around.

Katherine looked fairly disappointed that he hadn't even bothered to look at us as she made her leave. I felt myself smirking over her displeasure. Can you blame me? The woman was way out of her league. Though she didn't know it, her boss was taken. As soon as the door was closed, Kal-El turned around.

My heart fluttered uncontrollably and before I could stop myself, I gave him a once over. I couldn't help it! Clark may have looked adorable in primary colors but when he wore black, it brought out everything. This black suit he wore was even more attractive than the army clothes he'd dawned back in Smallville. I had to mentally smack myself back into reality. Focus, Lane!

If I hadn't been too busy ogling over my ignorant fiancé, I would have had more time to realize that he was just as transfixed by me as I was by him. I did manage to catch the look in his eyes though. He had definitely approved of the outfit. I smiled to break the ice.

"Thank you for accepting an interview, sir," I said.

He blinked and then returned the smile. My gosh, it was Clark's usual goofy grin. He didn't even realize how hard it was to keep my mind focused on my task just from that smile! This was going to be a lot harder than I thought.

"Not at all, Miss Lane," he said, walking behind his desk and sitting down, indicating that I sit in the chair opposite. I did so. "I wanted to thank you."

I raised my eyebrows. "For what?"

"It has not escaped my attention that your newspaper has printed satisfactory stories supporting Lord Darkseid's cause," he answered, threading his fingers together. "The other papers and news channels rebelled at first but the Daily Planet has supported our cause from day one. Your articles specifically caught my attention."

"Oh?"

"Yes," he said, pulling out several previous Daily Planet issues.

I noticed that each one was folded to show my bylines. Why Kal-El, have you been spying on me? I inwardly smiled. "I hope I made a good impression," I said.

"This interview is proof of that," he replied, setting the newspapers aside.

"Well, thank you, sir."

"Call me Kal."

I looked up and caught his blue eyes staring so intently at me that I blushed. Intuition screamed that this request was one he had not given to many others. In fact, I was fairly sure that nobody had earned addressing him with such a personal title. I swallowed, my heart beating wildly in my chest.

"Alright…Kal," I muttered, blushing furiously. Unable to look at him, I busied myself with my bag, fishing for my recorder. "Where did I put that thing," I mumbled.

"Your right pocket."

I looked up at him. It was just like that night when he returned after being gone for five years. He'd found me on the roof, stopping me from smoking. Perry had wanted me to get an interview with him. This scene was so similar to that I nearly burst out laughing. I contained my grin as I pulled the recorder out.

"Thanks," I said, setting it down on the desk between us.

"So, Miss Lane, what questions do you have for me?" he asked and I noticed his eyes were twinkling.

How incredible it was to see him acting just like any other interview! I had to constantly remind myself that he was still under Darkseid's control because he appeared just as kind, just as compassionate, and just as attractive as he had in the past. If I hadn't seen him banishing people to the Phantom Zone myself I would have scoffed if someone exclaimed he'd gone rouge.

The interview went smoothly, lasting surprisingly about an hour. Clark gave me his undivided attention and, surprise surprise, flirted with me the whole time. I don't even think he realized he was doing it either. The guarded exterior he'd possessed when I'd first arrived with his secretary had all but shattered when the interview concluded.

"Well, I think that's pretty much all I need," I said, shutting the recorder off.

He seemed disappointed but masked it well with a pleasant nod. "I enjoyed answering your questions, Miss Lane."

I gave him the most alluring smile I could muster. "I enjoyed giving them, Kal." I caressed his name with the tone of my voice. To my pleasure, I actually saw him shiver. Score! Though longing to stay, I knew I shouldn't overdue it. I stood up. "I should probably be heading back."

He stood up too and I happily noticed that he had that famous Clark-Kent puppy dog stare. He glanced at the clock on the wall. "Miss Lane?"

Was he actually nervous? Oh, yes, yes he was. Wow, winning him over had been easier than I thought. Play hard to get, Lane! Don't make it easy for him!

"Yes?" I asked innocently.

"It's customary to have an afternoon meal around this time, is it not?" he asked anxiously.

I glanced at the clock, deciding to play dumb. "Hmmm, I guess so," I hedged. "But people don't always eat lunch around noon."

I looked at him just in time to see him squirm. When he noticed my eyes upon him, he withdrew his outward emotion and frowned. "I didn't know that," he admitted.

I smiled. "Kal, are you hungry?"

"Yes!" he said almost too eagerly.

I hid my grin. "You know, I was just thinking about going to this little café down the road. Do you want to come?"

His eyes lit up and I realized it took everything he had not to allow himself to grin. He pretended to look conflicted, a sight I found rather endearing. "I may have to check my schedule," he muttered, looking at his desk.

I had to stop myself from laughing. His schedule was open until four; I'd noticed it on his desk when I'd first walked in. I pretended to examine my nails, waiting.

"It seems I have some time to spare," he said.

I smiled. "Great! Have you ever had hamburgers?"

We received a lot of stares as we walked down the sidewalk together. Kal had offered to have his secretary drive us there but I wasn't willing to let anyone suspect that I had a relationship with him other than being a press agent. Besides, we could use this outing as an excuse of him wanting the people to see his intentions were not to be a dictator but a kind ruler. I went with that angle and loudly voiced it several times as we headed to the café.

He seemed a little annoyed by my loud remarks of this being the perfect opportunity for the people to see him in such a good light; obviously what he had in mind was simply taking me to lunch not putting on a show. If he happened to display any kind of physical contact I decided to have the 'this needs to be kept a secret' talk.

We entered the café, a little place called Iggy's, and it became as silent as a graveyard. I pretended not to notice the difference as I located a booth away from the crowds. "This is a place I think you'll be able to find has surprisingly good tastes," I said. "It has great reviews and I'm sure it will pass the inspections you mentioned earlier."

Kal looked at me a little confused but decided to run with the idea. "I hope you're right, Miss Lane," he said, masking his bemusement though his eyes yelled for an explanation.

After hearing he apparently was here to inspect, people tried to pretend they weren't listening in as they turned back to their meals. I sighed and whispered under my breath, "Kal, having lunch with me might raise suspicions concerning your authority. In order to keep up appearances we have to pretend you wanted to inspect the daily life inside of every day restaurants and I'm just here to show you the ropes. Got it?"

He looked at me curiously but with understanding and nodded just as the owner appeared at our table. The poor man was sweating bullets as he stumbled over himself. "Welcome to Iggy's, sir. Is there anything particular I could interest you in?"

"Let me handle this," I muttered.

Kal looked at me but it was one of consent.

"Hey Greg," I said with a smile.

Greg leapt out of his skin. Obviously he hadn't seen me due to his attention being solely on Kal-El. "Miss Lane! I didn't even see you there."

I grinned. "I know I don't usually bring Kal-El with me when I come but we just finished our first interview and I raved about how great this place was. He decided he wanted to see if it lives up to its name."

That news didn't sit too well with Greg since his restaurant was on the line but he pretended to act normal as he smiled. "Of course, we have a large variety of choices…is there anything particular you'd like?"

"Give us a minute with the menu, will you?" I asked.

"Sure," Greg muttered before bee lining for the kitchen.

"You're going to give that man a heart attack," I chuckled as I looked at the menu.

Kal shifted uncomfortably. "I'd hate for him to think I was going to shut down his business. I'm trying to show humans that I approve of their work."

"No offense, but you banishing people to the Phantom Zone kind of intimidated us."

He frowned. "My actions were meant to destroy any attempt of committing chaos, Miss Lane. I did not think it would strike fear so much."

He looked so distraught by that revelation that I almost reached out to touch him. Trying to clear the heavy air, I looked back at the menu. "So, um, anything catch your eye?"

He perused the menu, frowning. "I don't think I've ever had a hamburger before."

I smiled behind my curls. Clark always picked hamburgers when we came here. "I think you should go with that," I encouraged. "They're really good!"

"What are you getting?"

"The same thing I always get; a salad with freshly squeezed orange juice," I said, waving my left hand carelessly.

The sunlight reflected on my engagement ring, casting a temporary rainbow on the ceiling before fading into shadow. Kal noticed but didn't comment. Greg returned. We placed our orders, Kal deciding to give orange juice a try. The drinks were brought out immediately with the promise that the food would be ready in ten minutes.

Kal asked me a wide range of questions about myself all throughout lunch. Right after the food was brought out, he let his tongue loose.

"How long have you worked for the Daily Planet?" he asked.

I raised an eyebrow as I stirred my salad around. "Is this an interview?"

Kal shifted as he tossed a french-fry into his mouth. "I guess," he muttered.

I smiled. "I've worked there for years – since I was seventeen, in fact."

"Is it rude to inquire how old you are?"

The question was so child-like! Was he really controlled by Darkseid? I looked into his innocent expression and saw nothing suggesting it. Still, I needed to be cautious. Good thing talking about me was a fairly safe subject.

Shrugging, I supplied, "Most people may find it rude but I don't. I'm thirty two."

"That's fairly young in human years."

I laughed. "I guess. Most people think when you're over twenty you're getting old."

He frowned. "Doesn't the average human live to be in their seventies?"

"Generally, yes. People just don't like growing up," I said, stabbing some lettuce and a tomato.

"What do you think?" he asked.

I chewed, thinking it over. "It hasn't really occurred to me until…" uh-oh. We'd stumbled on a topic I didn't want to discuss.

"Until what?" Kal prompted.

No. No way was I going to talk about Jason. He was off limits right now. Darn it! I focused on stabbing my salad and decided to abruptly change the conversation. "Never mind. I just haven't really thought about it."

He knew I was lying but I wasn't going to elaborate if he tried to pry anything more from me on the subject. Seeing this, he asked, "Have you always lived in Metropolis?"

There we go! Safe conversation! The rest of lunch was taken up explaining all about being a brat in the army, moving everywhere, and my family life. Kal was very interested when I revealed my dad was still a general in the army. He even expressed desire to meet him sometime. We finished the meal. I made to pay for it but Greg said it was on the house. The restaurant was rather subdued as we left. I breathed a lot easier once we were outside. Kal seemed to feel the same way.

We walked back towards City Hall, drawing more stares. Ignoring them, Kal asked, "Did you drive here, Miss Lane?"

I shook my head. "No, I took a taxi."

"Would you like my secretary to drive you back?"

"No, that's okay, but thanks for the offer."

We walked in silence a few more minutes and before I knew it we had reached the steps of City Hall. Kal turned to me. "I enjoyed being in your company, Miss Lane. Thank you for inviting me to lunch."

I smiled, trying to keep things neutral but already I was longing for him to latch onto me and skyrocket to the heavens. Unfortunately he wasn't showing any signs of doing so. I couldn't keep the disappointment from my voice as I said, "It was nice to meet you, Kal. Have a nice day."

I turned to leave.

"Miss Lane?"

My heart skipped a bit as I turned around. "Yes?"

Kal stood tall but he appeared as if he were trying to decide something. A small hope began to bubble within my chest but it popped as he shook his head. "Thank you again," he said lamely.

"It was my pleasure," I said with false cheer. "I'll see you around."

"I'm always around."

I paused, my breathing hitching even as the tears began to swell in my eyes. "I know," I whispered. Without looking back, I quickly walked down the street and hailed down a cab. Kal was still standing on the sidewalk as we drove past.

888

It had been another week. Perry, Richard, and my father were just as disappointed as I had imagined when I'd reported what happened. Chloe was my only source of feeling accomplished. "You made a good head start," she'd said.

I had thought so too until I hadn't heard nor even seen Kal the past seven days. His secretary had stopped by at the Planet four days later to deliver a generic thank you card for the article printed from our interview. I'd tossed the card away the moment Katherine was out of sight. He hadn't even bothered to sign it! I seriously doubted I had even made an impression from such dry results. I had been so sure he'd been attracted to me. Had I done something wrong?

I helped Jason get ready for bed, welcoming the distraction of reading him a bedtime story and tucking him in. However, the second I closed his door, I thought of Kal. Sighing, I made for the balcony I'd claimed as my own 'fortress of solitude'. Even though I was wearing a light camisole and short shorts in the beginning of January, I sat down on my lounge chair and relished the cold against my skin. I looked up in the sky and nearly had a heart attack when I realized it was occupied by Kal, dressed in his black spandex and cape. I couldn't believe it. Not a word, not a single word for the past seven days, and he suddenly showed up floating right in front of my balcony?! What the heck?! I tried to curb my anger as he descended next to me.

"Miss Lane," he greeted, his expression guarded.

I raised an eyebrow. "Do you usually make personal house calls?"

"No," he admitted.

"Then why are you here?"

He couldn't meet my eyes. Instead, he looked away, gazing out at Metropolis. "I…I'm not entirely sure."

Making up my mind, I stood up. "Want to come in?" I asked.

He hesitated at first but then nodded. Following me inside, I gestured for him to take a seat while I closed the sliding glass door and drew the blinds. I turned around to find him looking rather uncomfortable, his hands on his knees, his back completely straight.

"Relax, Kal, I'm not going to kill you," I joked, sitting down in the recliner opposite him.

He frowned but didn't say anything. He just stared at me. I suddenly became aware of my appearance. I was probably exposing more skin than he remembered seeing and from the way his eyes were twitching I realized he was trying really hard not to appreciate the view; I guess clothing really was an issue for him... or maybe he'd already fallen in love with me again?

Deciding it was better for him to relax than to be uptight, I stood up. "I'll be right back," I muttered before disappearing into my room. Throwing a blue silk robe over my shoulders, I made sure I was covered before coming back out into the living room. Kal was still there. At the change in my appearance, his fists unclenched.

"So, what brings the world's ruler to my broken down apartment at such a late hour?" I asked.

Kal still kept his back stiff as he looked away from me. I followed his eyes. He was looking down the hall at what could only be Jason's room. I felt my heart quicken in my chest, panicking. Kal looked back at me.

"You have a son," he said.

"Yes," I admitted reluctantly.

Kal then looked at the ring on my finger. "You're married." He appeared rather unhappy.

My eyebrows rose. Seriously? Had he been distant because he thought I wasn't available? "What makes you think that?" I asked, playing with the ring on my finger.

"Is it not custom for human companions to claim the other with a ring?" he demanded, slightly annoyed that I was feinting ignorance.

I shrugged. "Yeah, so?"

Kal scowled. "I find your behavior infuriating, Miss Lane."

I felt a flare of anger. "My behavior is infuriating?! And you think yours hasn't been to me?"

Kal stood up. "What are you implying?" he demanded, stepping close to me.

Instead of being intimidated by his height and build, I marched right up to him. "You may be trying to fool yourself but I know that you're attracted to me! Admit it!"

He looked like I'd slapped him in the face. He shook his head, still in denial, but that only spurred my anger further. Unable to control myself, I grabbed his head and forced his lips onto mine. If he wanted to, he could have pushed me away or taken my arms and crushed me into powder. Instead he was as still as a statue. Furious over his lack of response, I forced my tongue into his mouth.

Now that sparked a reaction.

Immediately his hands moved into their usual place, one behind my head, the other in the small of my back. He pushed me closer to him, closing the distance between us. I broke away to gasp for air but it was like I'd flipped a switch. Since my mouth wasn't available, Kal traced my jaw line with his lips. I shivered uncontrollably when his warm breath tickled the side of my neck and in response I tightened my grip around him. The gesture only encouraged him and before I knew it, I was sitting on his lap on the couch. I hadn't even realized we'd moved – neither did I have time to comprehend how it happened because Kal started kissing me again.

I blame my human tendencies for what happened next. Surrendering to instincts, my hands began exploring his torso in an attempt to find a way to get his top off. In a millisecond, Kal was gone, leaving me on the couch alone. Disoriented, I blinked and looked around. He was spread out flat against the wall, his eyes wide, his chest heaving, and an expression of pure horror on his face.

Immediately feeling like I'd been rejected, I timidly asked, "Did I do something wrong?"

He continued to stare, looking like he was waging a war with himself. I could see he wanted to kiss again but he was restraining himself, almost as if he was trying to convince himself it wasn't right. A sudden thought came into my mind. I stood up and took a step towards him. He flinched. I took another step. He didn't move but his eyes darted wildly back and forth, searching for an escape. I didn't falter as I continued to close the distance between us. He didn't move although he was obviously frightened.

I searched his eyes, trying to reassure him. Slowly, I lifted myself on tiptoe and slid my hands up his broad chest. He shivered under my touch but didn't run away, his eyes forever bearing into mine. I brought my lips up to his and kissed him slowly, delicately, passionately. Pulling away, I rested my forehead against his and whispered in perfect Kryptonian, "Forever yours and yours alone."

He grabbed my shoulders and pulled me away from him so he could look right into my eyes. "What did you just say?" he demanded, stunned.

"Forever yours and yours alone," I repeated in Kryptonian.

"How do you know that phrase and in my own tongue no less?"

I looked right into his eyes and held up my hand, displaying the engagement ring. "You whispered it to me, Kal-El. You gave me this."

He shook his head. "That's not possible. I only met you last week!"

I grabbed his forearms. "No you didn't! I've known you for years, Clark."

He froze. "What did you just call me?" he whispered.

My eyes widened. His name had just slipped out. "Clark," I admitted.

"I know that name," he muttered, his eyes darting back and forth. "That is the name you whisper quietly every night in your sleep."

I blinked. "You've been listening to me sleep?" I asked, surprisingly flattered.

He nodded, suddenly sheepish. "I noticed the ring, Miss Lane. I thought you were married yet I couldn't bring myself to leave you alone. I'm drawn to you. I was afraid you had a companion but I never saw a man with you even though you muttered that name several times while you slept."

I shook my head and sighed with a smile. Chloe was right; memories could be changed but feelings would always be there. "Your earth name is Clark, Kal-El. Clark is the man I fell in love with and the one who proposed to me."

He looked so lost. "Why do I not have any memory of this?" he questioned.

"Darkseid brainwashed you," I said. "He altered your memories and fed you falsehoods so you'd do his bidding. Humans never destroyed Krypton. We didn't even know it existed until you publically revealed yourself as Superman by saving my life eight years ago."

Kal shook his head. "It's not possible…"

I tightened my hold on his wrist. "It is possible! Believe me, please! I wouldn't make this up." He looked into my eyes. I didn't falter nor did I look away. "I love you, Kal-El. I wouldn't lie about this."

He stepped back from me and walked away to stare out a window. At first, I was afraid he'd leave but instead he just leaned against the wall and looked at the nightlife of Metropolis. I didn't know what to do with myself. I wanted to wrap my arms around him and hold him close but I felt I needed to keep my distance. I'd just dropped a bomb on him after all; he needed time to think. Wringing my hands, I walked over to the couch and sat down, deciding to wait.

After what felt like an eternity, he finally spoke. "I believe you…Lois."

I looked up. He wasn't facing me but his demeanor from behind looked like someone who had no idea who they were, which, in all honestly, he didn't. What was it like, not knowing what was real and what wasn't? Feeling it was now safe to touch him again, I left the couch and wrapped my arms around him from behind, resting my cheek against his back.

"I'm sorry you're so confused," I whispered. He didn't move his stance but he did place a hand over mine. I squeezed him lightly. "I want to help you, Clark. I know how to get your memories back but you have to trust me."

He turned around and put his hands on my shoulders. Looking right into my eyes, seeking reassurance, he nodded. "I trust you, Lois; I feel that I can."

I smiled. "Good because I'm your best hope, Smallville."

A flicker of familiarity graced his face. "You've called me that before," he muttered.

Tears of relief threatened to fall down my face. "Yes," I nodded, my voice thick with emotion. "It's kind of a pet name, I guess."

He smiled hesitantly. "I like it."

Uncertainly, he bent down, gaining confidence to kiss me but pulled away, sighing.

"What is it?" I asked unable to keep the disappointment from my face.

"Someone was stupid enough to break out of the Metropolis prison," he muttered. "Commissioner Henderson just informed me. I have to go."

Someone broke out of prison? Why did I feel a sense of foreboding? Clark moved to the balcony but I grabbed his hand. "Clark, wait!"

"What is it?" he asked, clearly hearing my heart pick up.

I bit my lip. "I know you have to go but, please, be careful! I have a bad feeling about this."

He smiled. "Lois, I'll be fine. I'll be back in ten minutes at the latest."

"You're coming back?" I asked, surprised.

He raised an eyebrow. "Why wouldn't I? You still have to tell me how you know what will reclaim my memories."

I nodded, letting out a breath I didn't know I'd been holding. "Okay but if the person who escaped is bald, don't try to face him alone." Clark furrowed his brow but I wouldn't elaborate. "Promise me you'll wait for back up."

My insistence was the only thing that gave him pause. Kissing my forehead, he consented. "Alright," he muttered, "I promise."

He was gone in a rush of wind. Normally I would have sat down and watched some stupid soap opera but the circumstances had shaken my nerves. I already had to deal with Darkseid. If my suspicions were correct, we just might have to deal with Lex Luthor too. Personally, I couldn't handle Lex Luthor right now. I had a very bad feeling that he was the one who escaped. Who else would try to break out of prison given the current state of the world? Knowing Luthor, he would have waited for the opportune moment to make his move. What better time than when the world was controlled by his arch nemesis? He probably figured he could make a pact with Clark now that they were on the same side.

I paced back and forth, repeatedly looking at the clock and mumbling under my breath. Horrible scenarios were playing in my mind of Lex threatening Clark with kryptonite so as to do his bidding. Ten minutes turned into twenty. At this point my heart rate shot through the roof. I was about to throw caution to the winds, grab Jason, and head to the prison myself when Clark returned, tapping on my sliding glass door.

"Oh thank goodness," I gasped, rushing forward and sliding it open. I leapt into his arms. "You scared the heck out of me!" I snapped.

He raised an eyebrow, insulted. "Did you think a mere human could stop me?"

I rolled my eyes. "A mere human nearly killed you a year ago, Clark. Don't underestimate what my people can and can't do."

Clark scoffed. "I doubt any of you could kill me, Lois, but I'm touched by your concern."

I shook my head. "You're a fool to think that way. But, I guess you don't remember being stabbed with Kryptonite so you're ignorant of the fact that you can be hurt."

He frowned. "What are you talking about?"

I took his hand and led him back inside. "It's a long story. First, tell me, who was it?"

Clark shrugged. "Someone named Luthor." My heart shot into my throat. Noticing it, Clark grabbed my hand. "Lois, what is it?"

"What did he do?" I demanded. "Did he say anything?"

Clark looked bemused as he explained, "He made an offer to work with me but I refused. I would rather not affiliate with anyone already confined to prison. He began to breathe out threatenings so I sent him to the Phantom Zone."

My mouth dropped open. "You sent Lex Luthor to the Phantom Zone?"

"Yes? Why? Should I not have?"

I pinched my nose with my fingers. "It's not that you shouldn't have…it's just…there's so much to explain. This would be so much easier if you just remembered everything."

"Then tell me how to get my memories back," he snapped, annoyed.

I scowled. "Don't get mad at me. It's your own fault that this happened to you."

"What are you talking about?"

I shook my head. "Forget it. It's not worth trying to explain. The important thing is getting your memories back and the only person that I know of who can do it is in the Phantom Zone."

"You're not serious, are you?"

"Do I look like I'm joking?"

He studied me for a moment before shaking his head. "No, but, Lois, who is it? Was it Lex Luthor? Is that why you were so upset?"

I laughed in dry humor. "No, it's not Lex Luthor. No, the one we're looking for is J'onn Jonzz. He's a member of the Justice League."

"The Justice League! Darkseid told me they were the leaders behind the destruction of Krypton!"

"Of course he'd tell you that, Clark," I growled angrily, "they were your friends and the only ones capable of restoring your memories! Darkseid wanted them out of the way. Don't you get it? With them gone, there wasn't any concern of someone being able to stand against you. You could be his puppet without him having to worry about any threats."

Clark's face shrouded in doubt for the first time. "Lois, Darkseid has been nothing but kind to me. What you have suggested has resulted in me questioning his word. The punishment for this seed of mistrust you're planting is banishment to the Phantom Zone."

I gave him the steeliest gaze I could muster. "So what are you going to do? Banish me?"

He grabbed my hand. "No! I could never do that."

"And why not?"

He swallowed and looked down at our intertwined hands. "Because I'm bound to you," he muttered. "The sealing bond has been spoken between us. No matter whom I have pledged myself to, my allegiance to them comes second to you. As an honorary Kryptonian I choose to believe your word over Darkseid's."

"Then you need to free everyone you've placed in the Phantom Zone," I said firmly.

His eyes widened. "Everyone? But, Lois, everyone sentenced there has been a criminal. Their punishments are just."

I shook my head. "One thing you were adamant about before Darkseid took your memories was that the fate of criminals was to be decided by their own nation's leaders. You would testify of their crimes but you left their ultimate judgment in the hands of humans because that's the way it should be. You have to let everyone go, Clark. It's not your right to keep them there."

He looked very conflicted now. He hung his head and sighed. "Part of me wants to deny what you say, Lois, but a greater part feels that you are right."

"What does your heart tell you, Kal-El?"

He glanced at me. "That I can trust you."

"Then trust me! Let everyone go."

Clark shook his head. "It isn't that easy, Lois. There are dangerous creatures that live there as well as thousands of criminals that have been sentenced there by previous Kryptonians. I can't open a portal when there is the possibility of someone or something being released onto this planet that doesn't belong here."

"There has to be a way to get the humans out."

"I didn't say there wasn't a way," he clarified, "I said it wasn't going to be easy."

"What do we have to do?"

"There is a gateway in the Phantom Zone that can open a portal but I have to access it with an offering of my blood."

I blinked. "Come again?"

Clark frowned. "The house of El is an old one, Lois, and was highly respected in all Kryptonian circles. The comparable title Earth would have to us is probably that of a chief or nobleman. Since Krypton didn't have anything like kings and queens, the ranking of my family was the highest Krypton had to offer. We've always been scientists, inventors, explorers, and leaders. My ancestors made the Phantom Zone. For maintenance purposes, they created a gateway that could be used as an escape from the Zone but the only way to activate it was with their blood."

"So, you're saying that the only way to free everyone is to go there yourself, spill your blood, and open the gate?" I surmised.

Clark nodded.

"Then what are we waiting for?" I demanded.

Clark hesitated but sighed. "I'm not too keen on going there," he admitted.

"Why not?" I asked testily.

He looked uncomfortable. "The creatures there are ones told of in Kryptonian nightmares."

I raised my eyebrows. "Clark, are you afraid?" He didn't answer. His look was all I needed to know that the unspoken answer was yes. I took his hand and squeezed it. "Hey, there's nothing to be afraid of. We'll go together."

He shook his head. "I'm not going to let you come with me, Lois."

I smirked. "Well, that's one thing you forgot."

He looked at me, bemused. "What's that?"

"Whenever I'm told I can't do something that I've already decided to do, nothing can stop me from doing it. And don't try to dissuade me, Clark. You won't win."

He frowned. "Why do I get the feeling that's one of the reasons I fell in love with you?"

I grinned. "So, how do we get into the Phantom Zone?"

Ta-da! It was a bit happier yes? :) The idea of Kryptonians aversion to touch is not an original idea; I've read of others using this and I thought it made a lot of sense and it works with my story. I thank all of those who have used this idea before me who inspired me to use it in my own writing. I hope it's okay I used it too!

Please take another minute or two to review! Thank you! :)